Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Blueberry and green tea containing supplement protects against stroke damage

A dietary supplement containing blueberry, green tea, vitamin D3, and carnosine extracts has been shown to reduce neural damage and motor deficits in animal models after a simulated stroke. The study found that the supplement increased new neuron production and was 100 times more potent than individual ingredients.

U of M study shows treatment of periodontal disease does not decrease risk for preterm birth

A recent U of M study found that treating periodontal disease in pregnant women does not reduce the risk of preterm birth or low birth weight. The study, published in the New England Journal of Medicine, concluded that while treatment is safe and effective, it does not directly affect a woman's risk for these complications.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateNov 1, 2006

'Laser tweezers' reveal microscopic mechanical properties of blood clots

A team of researchers from the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine has used laser tweezers to measure the mechanical properties of individual fibers in blood clots. The study reveals that clots deform primarily by bending of their fibers, rather than stretching, providing new insights into clot physiology.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 23, 2005

Mild noise damage can be detected by cells in the inner ear

Researchers have found that deliberate damage to sensory receptor cells in the inner ear can trigger a cascade of signals through ATP release, leading to the spread of calcium ions. This mechanism is activated by loud noise levels commonly experienced in nightclubs and when using personal headphones.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateMar 22, 2004

Stem cells shown to regenerate damaged lung tissue for first time

Adult stem cells have been shown to regenerate damaged lung tissue, offering a promising new treatment for devastating lung diseases. The study's findings suggest that circulating stem cells can repair damage in organ tissue, which could have a huge impact on the treatment of conditions like emphysema and cystic fibrosis.

SourceUniversity of Vermont·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateAug 29, 2003

Oxidative damage to eNOS by tissue peroxynitrite

Research reveals that peroxynitrite damages endothelial NO synthase (eNOS), promoting uncoupled catalysis and oxidative stress in vascular tissues. This damage can propagate to other susceptible enzymes, exacerbating inflammation and oxidative stress.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateMar 13, 2002

Spiral waves break hearts: Importance of communication between cardiac cells is demonstrated

Researchers investigate how electrical impulses travel through cardiac tissue and how impaired cell communication affects heart health. They develop a computer model that shows how electrical activity spreads like a fire in a forest, and find that spiral waves breaking up into multiple spirals may be similar to the patterns that cause ...

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateFeb 5, 2002

New plastic heals damaged nerves

Researchers have developed a new biomaterial that uses an electricity-conducting polymer in combination with a naturally occurring sugar molecule to stimulate nerve growth. The material breaks down over time, allowing the nerve to grow and reach its target weeks or months later.