Research on therapies used across medicine and how they perform. Covers weight-loss injections, hormone therapy, stem-cell approaches, pain relief, and drug targets.
A study found that newborns with low blood sodium consumed more dietary sodium and weighed more than their peers. The researchers concluded that very low serum sodium in pre-term and new-born infants is a significant contributor to long-term sodium intake, a key marker for obesity.
Researchers found that replacing SH2B1 only in the brain of mice lacking it prevents obesity and diabetes. The study implicates SH2B1 as a potential target for treating obesity and type II diabetes.
A syphilis epidemic is sweeping China, driven by the re-emergence of sex work and changing sexual practices. The country's national surveillance system has reported a significant increase in syphilis cases, with congenital syphilis rates rising by 71% between 1991 and 2005.
A new study found that MRI changed treatment plans for 35% of patients with ankle pain, reducing potential diagnoses from 2.3 to 1.2. The imaging modality increased referring physicians' confidence in their diagnoses by 66%, improving patient outcomes.
A new study found that 61% of chronic hepatitis C patients treated with Interferon developed asymptomatic retinopathy, including retinal hemorrhage and cotton-wool spots. The condition was associated with increased blood velocity and endothelial dysfunction, highlighting the importance of monitoring patients during treatment.
The London bombings on July 7, 2005, resulted in a large mass casualty event. Researchers found that the Royal London Hospital's Helicopter Emergency Medical Service achieved low over-triage rates, leading to a death rate among critically injured of 15%, lower than most previous terrorist mass casualty events.
Children with Fetal Alcohol Syndrome Disorder (FASD) have specific deficits in memory for numbers and sequences, contributing to common math difficulties. The study provides a 'neurobehavioural profile' to refine assessments and ensure effective treatment.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins University are developing robotic assistants to enhance surgeons' skills, including a snakelike robot for making incisions and tying sutures with greater dexterity, and a steady-hand system to curb tremors during microsurgery. These tools aim to improve surgical precision and effectiveness.
New research symposium in Perspectives on Politics examines the complex politics of HIV/AIDS in seven countries, highlighting key findings on state action, civil society mobilization, and their consequences. The symposium provides empirical and theoretical claims on the pandemic, shedding light on the diverse impact of HIV/AIDS on rela...
A study by the University of Wisconsin Medical School and Hospital found that the two-slice-touch rule increases the accuracy of diagnosing meniscal tears. The positive predictive value for diagnosing a meniscal tear increased from 91% to 94%, making it a reliable tool for diagnosis.
The AMI-QUEBEC Study found that almost half of patients received fibrinolytic therapy within 30 minutes, a significant improvement from previous times. Door-to-balloon times remained a concern, exceeding recommended times in most cases.
A recent study estimates that five million women are hospitalized annually in developing countries due to complications from unsafe abortions. The World Health Organization defines unsafe abortion as a procedure lacking proper medical standards or skills.
The Parkinson Study Group has received a $200,000 grant from the Parkinson's Disease Foundation to fund innovative programs supporting clinical research. The grant will support retrospective data-mining projects and mentorship for young researchers, aiming to accelerate treatment development.
A study found that patients with low systolic blood pressure at hospital admission had poor outcomes, including higher mortality rates and rehospitalization. Higher systolic blood pressure was associated with lower risk of death in the long term.
A chemical-free device invented by University of Utah biologists eradicates head lice infestations on children by killing eggs and lice, a promising cure for the condition. The LouseBuster uses hot air to dry out lice and nits, making it an effective alternative to traditional chemical treatments.
Up to two-thirds of women experience incontinence, which can interfere with daily activities and lead to physical health problems. Most cases can be diagnosed through office evaluation without further tests or referrals, offering relief to up to 90% of patients.
Researchers at Penn School of Medicine found that low-intensity laser treatment is ineffective in preventing complications of AMD or vision loss. Daily supplements of vitamins and minerals remain the only established way to decrease the risk of vision loss for people with large drusen.
A recent study found that mice lacking the GBA2 protein exhibit decreased fertility due to abnormal sperm morphology and reduced motility. The discovery may shed light on the mechanism behind certain treatments for Gaucher's disease, which can also impact fertility.
A large clinical trial found that pregnant women treated for gum disease during pregnancy did not have a significantly lower risk of premature birth. The study, the Obstetrics and Periodontal Therapy Trial (OPT), also showed no increase in adverse events from dental treatment during pregnancy.
A study by Sharon Inouye found that 39% of hospitalized older adults experience subtle cognitive decline, known as recoverable cognitive dysfunction. The condition can be screened for and prevented or treated with interventions.
Menzies School of Health Research has received $4.6 million in funding from the National Health and Medical Research Council to boost its research capability in Indigenous, remote, and tropical health. The funding will support six projects, including the Aboriginal Birth Cohort Study and scabies diagnosis development.
Schema Therapy has been shown to be more effective than traditional Transference Focused Psychotherapy in treating Borderline Personality Disorder. The therapy achieved full recovery in about 50% of patients and significant improvement in two-thirds, with a lower dropout rate and lower cost.
Research by Boston University links periodontal disease to increased stroke risk in older adults. The study suggests that periodontitis may be a marker for negative effects of risk factors common to both conditions.
A study published in The Journal of Nutrition found that eating two Right Direction Cookies daily lowered LDL cholesterol by ten percent and improved lipid subfraction profile. The cookies' combination of psyllium and plant sterols helps shift LDL particles toward a less atherogenic pattern, reducing cardiovascular risk.
The NIH has launched a national consortium to transform clinical research, enabling the development of new treatments more efficiently and quickly. The initiative aims to improve medical care by applying scientific advances to real-world practice, particularly in underserved populations.
A study in rats reports that a specific receptor for a stress-response transmitter may play an important role in stress-induced relapse. The research found that blocking this receptor suppressed alcohol drinking and reinstatement of drinking in animals with a higher preference for alcohol.
Two new blood tests, T-SPOT.TB and QuantiFERON-TB Gold, have improved the detection of latent tuberculosis (TB) infection. These tests offer more accurate results, faster turnaround times, and no return visits compared to traditional tuberculin skin tests.
A comprehensive study of 2,128 individuals found that openness to surgery and higher education level significantly influenced the likelihood of undergoing joint replacement surgery. Education was a key factor in increasing willingness to consider TJA, regardless of socioeconomic status or disability.
A study analyzing 45 years of stroke research found that 75% of unpublished studies had negative or harmful results, while only 6% of published studies shared this outcome. The findings support the need for registering all clinical studies before they begin to prevent publication bias.
A Phase III efficacy study led by Dr. Peter Hillmen found eculizumab significantly improves anaemia and quality of life in patients with paroxysmal nocturnal haemoglobinuria (PNH). The treatment also reduces intravascular hemolysis, fatigue, pain, and shortness of breath.
A study found that lobbing raw eggs at people as a prank can result in blunt ocular trauma, leading to injuries such as tears, bruising, and raised internal pressure. In some cases, this can cause permanent loss of eyesight.
The MIT-developed molecular sieve can precisely control pore size, allowing for faster and more accurate separation of proteins from biological fluids. This technology has the potential to aid in disease detection and treatment by enabling scientists to study biomarker proteins with greater efficiency.
The American College of Chest Physicians, along with the American College of Occupational and Environmental Medicine and the National Sleep Foundation, has released updated recommendations for screening and managing obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) among commercial motor vehicle (CMV) operators. The guidelines aim to identify drivers at h...
A systematic review of international research found that there is no clear difference in the effectiveness of treatment provided by teaching and non-teaching hospitals. However, the researchers suggest that specific diseases may have different outcomes, and their findings will be useful for training doctors while providing the best car...
A new study found that individuals who become alcohol dependent before age 25 are less likely to seek treatment, experience more frequent and longer-lasting episodes, and meet more dependence diagnostic criteria. Researchers call for increased prevention and treatment efforts for this vulnerable population.
A randomized control group study found that second graders who participated in the 'Healthy Choices, Healthy Me!' program scored 20% higher on food guidance system questions and reported significant increases in selecting healthy foods. The program was also effective in changing behavior over time.
The study examined clinical and cognitive predictors of swallowing recovery in stroke patients. Identification of specific neurocognitive deficits and clinical features was associated with poor swallowing outcomes.
A study in The Journal of Pediatrics reveals that 85% of aggressive students have experienced a significant family crisis, highlighting the need for proactive strategies to identify potential dangers. The research also shows that 33% of students with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder have never received treatment.
Finnish soldiers rarely sought compensation for psychological war injuries due to a culture of shame. Researcher Ville Kivimäki's study reveals that restrictive war psychiatry created a reality where traumatic experiences were stigmatized, limiting veterans' ability to express their traumas.
A recent study using APPROACH data compares survival outcomes between medically treated and surgically treated patients with heart failure. The findings suggest that revascularization may not offer significant benefits in terms of risks versus benefits.
Scientists replicated HCV in mouse cells using a gene called protein kinase R, blocking the virus's high rate of replication. This breakthrough may lead to better understanding of why some patients respond to treatment, potentially shedding light on new therapeutic strategies.
A $2.25 million NIMH-funded study is being conducted at Kent State University to examine the psychological impact of ongoing terrorism on PTSD and depression. The study aims to identify factors that exacerbate mental health issues, such as prior trauma exposure and social support.
A study found that TB patients underweight at diagnosis who gain less than 5% weight during the first two months of treatment have a significantly increased risk of disease relapse. This association holds even among those with abnormal chest x-rays and positive sputum cultures after 2 months of anti-tuberculosis treatment.
The latest NETT results confirm that selected severe emphysema patients with upper-lobe emphysema and poor exercise capacity before surgery can benefit from surgery with improved survival rates. Long-term follow-up also shows symptom relief in some patients, but no improvement in overall survival.
Inhaled nitric oxide significantly reduces chronic lung disease and brain injury risk in very low birthweight premature infants. The therapy, given within the first few weeks of life or within 48 hours after birth, appears to protect against long-term breathing problems and brain damage.
A new study found that neurosurgical treatment of severe anxiety disorders can be effective in relieving symptoms, but also carries a significant risk of side-effects such as apathy and epilepsy. The study monitored 51 patients for up to 23 years after undergoing capsulotomy, a procedure that involves severing nerve fibers in the brain.
A computer card game called FreeCell has been adapted to detect early signs of dementia by assessing players' planning and efficiency. Researchers found that the game can distinguish between cognitively healthy elders and those with mild cognitive impairment, suggesting potential for early treatment strategies.
A new study published in The Lancet found that a fertility technique commonly used to help couples conceive is not effective for those with a 30% chance of natural pregnancy. Intrauterine insemination with controlled ovarian hyperstimulation was no more successful than expectant management for couples with this high pregnancy rate.
A new study by Marsha Linehan and colleagues found that women given specialized dialectical behavior therapy treatment were significantly less likely to attempt suicide. The treatment also resulted in reduced hospitalization for psychiatric reasons and improved treatment retention rates.
Researcher Joseph Newman challenges the loaded label of 'psychopath,' arguing it's applied too liberally without understanding key elements. His work suggests psychopathy is a learning disability that makes individuals oblivious to consequences, with significant implications for treatment and behavioral interventions.
The study found that water fluoridation continues to be a cost-effective preventive measure, with annual per person savings ranging from AUS$56 in the 1970s to AUS$18 in the 1990s. However, the cost-saving benefits may decline with age due to plateaued new tooth decay and higher periodontal treatment needs.
A mathematical model predicts that IVF treatment is more efficient and likely to result in pregnancy after the first trial. Offering IVF first is more cost-effective than offering IUI alone or followed by IVF if IUI fails, saving £174,200 for an additional 54 couples.
A recent fraudulent attempt at IVF treatment highlighted the need for improved patient identification methods. The study found that 37% of clinics experienced or suspected cases of patient identity fraud, with many lacking adequate safeguards.
A study of 75 healthy college students found that those who were led to expect considerable nausea fared better than those who weren't. Preparation can have a profound impact on how patients respond to nausea, with the results suggesting that informed expectations may help reduce symptoms and stomach activity.
A study in Wales found that four out of five head lice are resistant to common treatments, raising concerns about the effectiveness of existing methods. The authors suggest a newer silicone-based lotion as an alternative where resistance develops.
A recent clinical trial has shown that heart attack patients with cardiogenic shock who undergo emergency angioplasty or bypass surgery within six hours experience improved long-term survival rates compared to those receiving intensive medical therapy. The study enrolled 302 patients and found significant benefits from early revascular...
A re-examination of beta-blocker efficacy for hypertension treatment found that the risk of stroke is more significant for patients over 60 years old. In contrast, younger patients under 60 show no increased stroke risk. The meta-analysis suggests a potential shift in beta-blocker usage guidelines.
The article advocates for a more nuanced approach to treatment decisions for the frail elderly, emphasizing physician accountability and respect for patient autonomy. Dr. Rockwood suggests ways to empower patients and facilitate care that prioritizes their best interests.
Dr Elise Feng-I Morgan, a researcher at Boston University, has been awarded the 2005 IOF-Servier Young Investigator Award for her innovative research on osteoporosis. This prestigious award aims to promote awareness and understanding of osteoporosis among young scientists.
Seven young researchers from six countries have been awarded the IOF-Novartis Young Scholars' Award for outstanding contributions to osteoporosis research. The award aims to support and encourage careers in osteoporosis research, a field that has seen significant progress in understanding and treating this debilitating disease.