Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Researchers create a map that highlights the brain circuits associated with mania

A team of scientists created a map highlighting the brain circuits affected in mania, which could lead to more effective treatments for bipolar disorder. The study identified specific regions, including the orbitofrontal cortex and inferior temporal cortex, as key players in mood regulation and emotional processing.

SourceChampalimaud Centre for the Unknown·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateAug 24, 2020

Real-time photoacoustic thermometry of tumors during HIFU treatment in living subjects

Researchers developed a photoacoustic (PA) thermometry system for HIFU treatment guidance, enabling real-time monitoring of temperature increase at tumors during treatment. The system allows for simultaneous ultrasound imaging, PA imaging, and PA thermometry, enhancing the accuracy and safety of HIFU treatments.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalIEEE Transactions on Biomedical Engineering·DateDec 11, 2019

Docs should consider a patient's weight before prescribing new chemotherapy drugs

Research suggests that PI3K inhibitors, a new class of cancer drugs, may cause an increase in pre-cancerous lesions in the pancreas of mice fed high-fat diets. The findings urge doctors to consider a patient's weight before prescribing these drugs, especially for those with pancreatic cancer who are obese.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 1, 2019

The Lancet: HPV vaccination programs have substantial impact in reducing HPV infections and precancerous cervical lesions

A meta-analysis of 60 million individuals in high-income countries found significant decreases in HPV infections, anogenital wart diagnoses, and precancerous cervical lesions (CIN2+) after girls-only HPV vaccination. The study supports the WHO's revised position on vaccinating multiple age cohorts of girls aged 9-14 years old.

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet·DateJun 26, 2019

A new mechanism for accessing damaged DNA

Researchers from the Thomä group at FMI have identified a new mechanism by which UV-DDB detects and binds to damaged DNA tightly packed in nucleosomes. This mechanism, known as 'slide-assisted site-exposure', allows repair proteins to bind to lesions without requiring additional proteins or chemical energy.

SourceFriedrich Miescher Institute·JournalNature·DateMay 30, 2019

Antibiotics may treat endometriosis

Researchers discover that metronidazole reduces lesions caused by endometriosis in mice, suggesting a potential treatment for the painful condition. The study also reveals that gut microbiota may play a role in driving or preventing endometriosis progression.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalHuman Reproduction·DateApr 30, 2019