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New findings about why losartan is effective in treating Marfan syndrome may reshape our thinking about patient management

Researchers have identified activation of nitric oxide-dependent endothelial function as the key to losartan's anti-aortic root remodeling activities. This finding challenges traditional views on blood pressure control in Marfan syndrome treatment, suggesting a new approach focusing on endothelial function may be more beneficial.

SourceElsevier·JournalAmerican Journal Of Pathology·DateFeb 9, 2018

Anxious personality may be linked to heightened dog bite risk

A recent study published in the Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health found that people with anxious personalities are more likely to be bitten by dogs. The survey revealed nearly three times the actual number of dog bites as hospital records indicate, suggesting a higher risk for anxious individuals.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalJournal of Epidemiology and Community Health·DateFeb 1, 2018

To improve self-control, call weight loss what it is: Difficult

Researchers at Drexel University found that telling people weight loss is difficult can actually motivate them to shed more weight in the short-term. However, this approach did not lead to long-term changes in unhealthy foods at home. The study suggests that modifying the home food environment, rather than just providing diet advice, i...

SourceDrexel University·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·DateJan 29, 2018

A call for greater attention to older women's sexual health

The Journal of the American Geriatrics Society article highlights issues in caring for older women's sexual health, including insufficient physician training. Physicians should regularly inquire about sexual activity and function, offering practical advice on common chronic medical conditions and vulvovaginal atrophy.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateJan 24, 2018

New blood protein markers help track premature ageing disease

A new study has identified protein biomarkers that can help monitor the progression and treatment of Hutchinson-Gilford progeria syndrome (HGPS) in children. The research found levels of more than 40% of proteins to be significantly different in HGPS samples compared to non-HGPS control samples.

SourceSpringer·JournalPediatric Research·DateJan 18, 2018

Specially timed signals ease tinnitus symptoms in first test aimed at condition's root cause

Researchers have developed a new approach to treating tinnitus by targeting unruly nerve activity in the brain with precisely timed sound and skin stimulation. Human participants reported improved quality of life after four weeks of daily device use, while sham treatment did not produce similar effects.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateJan 3, 2018

Typhoid fever toxin has a sweet tooth

A new study found that Salmonella typhi toxin targets specific cells expressing multiantennal glycan receptors, which could lead to the development of targeted treatments for typhoid fever. The research also highlights the potential for sugar-based therapeutics to combat antibiotic-resistant diseases.

SourceCornell University·JournalNature Microbiology·DateDec 11, 2017

New study out of WSU further supports use of progesterone to fight preterm birth

A new meta-analysis confirms the effectiveness of vaginal progesterone in reducing preterm birth risk and improving perinatal outcomes for women with a shortened cervix. The study found significant reductions in preterm birth rates and neonatal complications, as well as improved childhood neurodevelopment.

SourceWayne State University - Office of the Vice President for Research·JournalAmerican Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology·DateNov 17, 2017

Has the Mental Health Act had its day?

Experts argue that a non-discriminatory legal framework governing involuntary treatment could replace unjust discrimination against people with mental ill health. Critics, however, worry that changing the law without proper resourced services could lead to reduced rates of compulsion and decreased care for vulnerable individuals.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·DateNov 15, 2017

Cognitive behavioral therapy for children and adolescents with OCD works in the long run

A study by Aarhus University finds that cognitive behavioral therapy is highly effective in treating OCD in children and adolescents. The research, involving 269 participants from Denmark, Norway, and Sweden, showed that 92% of those who benefited from the treatment remained symptom-free a year after completion.

SourceAarhus University·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry·DateNov 14, 2017

Why head and face pain causes more suffering

Scientists discovered that sensory neurons in the head and face are directly connected to the brain's emotional pathways, explaining why people experience greater fear and emotional suffering from these types of pain. This finding may lead to more effective treatments for chronic headaches and neuropathic face pain.

SourceDuke University·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateNov 13, 2017