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Protein thought to protect against oxidative stress also promotes clogging of arteries

Researchers at UCLA found that the Nrf2 protein, thought to protect against oxidative stress, actually promotes atherosclerosis by raising plasma cholesterol levels and increasing plaque formation in arteries. The study suggests that antioxidant therapies targeting this protein may not be as effective due to these additional mechanisms.

Picking a poison for brain tumors: Arsenic

Researchers found that arsenic trioxide inhibits the growth of medulloblastoma and Ewing sarcoma cell lines by blocking the Hedgehog/GLI1 signaling pathway. The compound improved survival in a mouse model of medulloblastoma, suggesting its potential as a therapeutic option.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateDec 22, 2010

Tumor cells in blood may signal worse prognosis in head and neck cancer patients

A new study suggests that the presence of tumor cells in the circulating blood of patients with squamous cell cancer of the head and neck may predict disease recurrence and reduced survival. The study found a correlation between an increasing number of circulating tumor cells (CTCs) and a worse outcome.

SourceOhio State University Wexner Medical Center·JournalArchives of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery·DateDec 21, 2010

Outcomes after recurrence of oral cancer vary by timing, site

Patients with oral squamous cell carcinoma who experience early or lymph node recurrence after initial treatment tend to have poorer outcomes. The study suggests that local recurrences within six months are associated with worse survival rates, while regional recurrences at longer intervals also negatively impact survival.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery·DateDec 20, 2010

Racial disparities evident in early-stage liver cancer survival

A recent study found racial disparities in liver cancer survival rates, with black patients experiencing higher mortality rates compared to white and Hispanic patients. Despite receiving similar treatments, black patients had a 12% increased rate of death, indicating poor access to care and subpar treatment outcomes.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Surgery·DateDec 20, 2010

Vaccine boosts your immune system

Researchers have discovered a protein that can prevent chronic tissue inflammation and boost the immune system. The therapeutic vaccine has been shown to effectively treat conditions like multiple sclerosis and rheumatoid arthritis.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateDec 14, 2010

Ovarian cancer screening saves few lives

Researchers found that ovarian cancer screening can only slightly reduce mortality rates, highlighting the need for prevention and better treatments. For high-risk women, targeted screening may offer more hope in reducing deaths from ovarian cancer.

SourceWiley·JournalCancer·DateDec 13, 2010

Expecting? Don't neglect your teeth

During pregnancy, pregnant women can experience significant changes in their oral health, including gingivitis, pregnancy tumors, and mild to severe gingival enlargement. Regular dental check-ups and proper oral hygiene can help alleviate gum inflammation and prevent worsening of conditions.

SourceAcademy of General Dentistry·JournalEuropean Journal of General Dentistry·DateNov 23, 2010

JCI table of contents: Nov. 22, 2010

High-throughput DNA sequencing of gut bacteria confirmed that antibiotic treatment disrupts bacterial patterns, which precedes VRE colonization and bloodstream invasion. Monitoring fecal bacteria content could identify patients at high risk of life-threatening infections.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateNov 22, 2010

Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center research shows fish oil component given up to 5 hours after stroke limits brain damage

A study by LSU Health Sciences Center researchers found that Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), a fish oil component, can protect brain tissue and promote recovery in acute ischemic stroke even when treatment is delayed. DHA treatment reduced swelling and facilitated neurobehavioral recovery.

SourceLouisiana State University Health Sciences Center·JournalTranslational Stroke Research·DateNov 8, 2010