Research on containing and managing disease. Covers critical-illness theory, zoonotic disease, immunotherapy trials, and historical epidemics.
Researchers found that an immunosuppressive drug commonly used to prevent kidney transplant rejection also improved patients with severe symptoms of kidney disease. The treatment reduced protein leaks and alleviated fluid retention, correcting high cholesterol levels without the negative side effects of steroids.
A study at Ohio State University shows that selective breeding helps honeybees develop resistance to tracheal mites, reducing the need for insecticides. Beekeepers can maintain healthy hives without relying on chemicals by selecting and breeding mite-resistant bees.
Researchers at UNC Chapel Hill School of Medicine found that NF-kappa B, a natural protein, teams up with a cancer gene to prevent cell death in tumor cells. The team suggests using new drugs or therapies to turn off or neutralize NF-kappa B to control certain tumors.
A study of 1,399 Vietnam veterans found that those with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) were 50-150% more likely to develop serious diseases. Veterans with PTSD who saw heavy combat were particularly at risk for circulatory and respiratory problems.
High-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol may help trigger an inflammatory reaction in the blood vessels and accelerate atherosclerosis under some circumstances. Researchers suggest that anti-inflammatory medicines like aspirin could be useful in preventing or controlling atherosclerosis.
The new guidelines, JNC VI, recommend stratifying patients into risk groups based on blood pressure stage and presence of risk factors. Lifestyle changes are advised for all patients on drug therapy, regardless of risk group.
Researchers at Rockefeller University are conducting a study to examine the potential of three plant-derived compounds - curcumin, rutin, and quercetin - to prevent colorectal cancer. The study aims to determine whether these compounds can safely inhibit the development of colon polyps and reduce cancer risk.
The report highlights the resurgence of infectious and parasitic diseases, including exotic ones like Ebola and dengue hemorrhagic fever. The authors call for strengthened infection control precautions, rapid diagnostic tests, and improved public education to combat these diseases.
A low-cost antiseptic solution significantly reduced postpartum infectious problems in both mothers and babies, resulting in a three-fold reduction in infant deaths related to sepsis. The solution, 0.25 percent chlorhexidine in sterile water, was applied at each vaginal examination before delivery and to babies after birth.
According to CDC estimates, millions of US-born girls and women may be at risk of female genital mutilation (FGM/FC) due to their immigrant heritage. The practice is concentrated in certain states and metropolitan areas with large populations of immigrants from FGM/FC-practicing countries.
Researchers have discovered a novel physiological role for UG in mice, suggesting its essentiality in preventing kidney fibrosis and neonatal BPD. UG deficiency leads to inflammation and fibrosis of lung tissue, resulting in respiratory inhibition.
Despite significant advances in cancer treatment, age-adjusted death rates from cancer have barely declined since 1991. The authors argue that resources should be redirected towards prevention and early detection, citing the challenges of changing behaviors such as smoking and diet.
The North Carolina Statewide Infection Control Program has prepared guidelines to prevent and control the spread of antibiotic-resistant infections, specifically MRSA and VRE. The guidelines offer practices designed to reduce transmission between patients in various healthcare settings.
Researchers at the Weizmann Institute of Science have identified a key gene called NIK that plays a crucial role in triggering the immune response. By removing the 'brake' on the NF-kappaB protein, NIK activation sets off an immune response that could be harnessed to develop new medications for autoimmune diseases and HIV.
Researchers identified a carbohydrate structure that Chlamydia trachomatis uses to infect cells, leading to the development of a potential preventive agent. The study found that similar carbohydrates can prevent chlamydial infection, paving the way for the creation of anti-adhesive therapies.
A study demonstrates that the common cat flea is a competent vector for Bartonella henselae, the cause of cat scratch disease. Flea infestation control may reduce transmission between cats, and thus humans via scratches. Direct transmission from cat to cat cannot be demonstrated without fleas.
The National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine recommends federal guidelines to ensure the safe use of xenotransplantation. The guidelines address four major areas: source animal screening, patient surveillance, tissue banking, and national registries.
Researchers at Harvard Medical School and Harvard School of Public Health have discovered the role of Stat 4 in determining T helper cell differentiation. The study found that Stat 4 is the master switch controlling the differentiation of T helper cells, which plays a critical role in dictating the outcome of immune responses.
A year-long study found that nearly twice as many smokers made progress toward quitting in church-based programs with pastoral support compared to self-help pamphlets. The programs emphasized cultural and spiritual norms, particularly among Baptists who consider smoking a sin, leading to higher quit rates.