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Ancient burials suggestive of blood feuds

Researchers found atypical burials with signs of violence, challenging traditional theories of witchcraft and blood feuds. The study suggests that violence was used to signal power and prestige, potentially leading to further conflict and biological fitness benefits.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalCurrent Anthropology·DateOct 24, 2016

Multisensory education enhances patient understanding of orthopaedic conditions

A new study by the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons found that incorporating multiple senses in physician-patient conversations improves patient comprehension of orthopaedic conditions. The study showed significant differences in understanding between groups using verbal, video, and model-based discussions.

SourceAmerican Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons·JournalJournal of Bone and Joint Surgery·DateOct 6, 2016

Hard-to-control asthma has distinct features, study shows

Children with hard-to-control asthma have distinct features that distinguish them from those with easy-to-control asthma. These include bronchodilator responsiveness, nasal inflammation, and allergy, which impact response to treatment. Early identification of key assessments may help personalize treatment approaches for these patients.

SourceAnn & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago·JournalJournal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology·DateOct 5, 2016

Osteoporosis: Antibody crystallized

Scientists at University of Würzburg have crystallized an antibody effective against Sclerostin, a protein involved in bone metabolism. The findings offer a promising treatment option for osteoporosis, a condition that affects elderly women and increases the risk of fractures.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalOpen Biology·DateSep 2, 2016

Identifying and treating thyroid disorders in kids

Thyroid disorders in children can be diagnosed and treated early with regular screening and communication between primary care physicians and specialists. The article highlights the importance of understanding risk factors, clinical signs, and symptoms to optimize outcomes for patients with these conditions.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateAug 29, 2016

NIH-supported researchers develop novel system to grow norovirus in intestinal cells

Researchers successfully cultured norovirus in human intestinal cells, a breakthrough that could lead to the development of novel therapeutics and vaccines against this debilitating virus. The study, supported by the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, sheds light on the molecular mechanisms behind norovirus infection.

Reperfusion therapy type for heart attacks seems less important than assuring that all eligible patients receive timely treatment

A recent study found that patients who did not receive reperfusion therapy had a significantly higher 30-day mortality rate, regardless of the type of hospital they were treated in. The researchers emphasized the importance of improving healthcare systems to facilitate timely treatment and reduce delays.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalCanadian Journal of Cardiology·DateJul 27, 2016

The Lancet: Simpler, cheaper psychological treatment as effective as cognitive behavioural therapy for treating depression

A large trial has shown that behavioral activation therapy is non-inferior to cognitive behavioral therapy in treating depression, with two-thirds of participants reporting a 50% reduction in depressive symptoms. The treatment is also cheaper and more accessible, with average intervention costs £974.81 compared to CBT's £1235.23.

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet·DateJul 22, 2016

'Perfect storm' brought sea louse epidemic to BC salmon: University of Toronto study

A University of Toronto study found that high ocean temperatures and uncoordinated treatment likely led to an outbreak of sea lice in BC salmon farms. The study revealed that the spread of sea lice to migrating juvenile wild salmon resulted in the highest numbers of sea lice observed on wild salmon in a decade.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalCanadian Journal of Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences·DateJul 20, 2016

Teaming up against sepsis

A multidisciplinary team of UCSB faculty members and clinicians will conduct biomedical research on sepsis, a severe response to infections, thanks to a $12.8 million NIH grant. The program aims to develop radically different approaches to treating sepsis, with the goal of reducing disability and death.

A short period of bed rest after intrauterine insemination makes no difference to pregnancy rates

A large randomized study found that a short period of bed rest after intrauterine insemination has no beneficial effect on pregnancy rates, contrary to previous small studies. The results suggest that immobilization after IUI may even hinder fertility in some cases, rendering recommendations for prolonged bed rest obsolete.