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Algorithm for mapping mild cognitive impairment

Researchers present a new framework for mapping mild cognitive impairment, including an online diagnostic algorithm. The framework characterizes different classifications of MCI and their patterns of etiology, cognitive decline, and clinical outcome.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateOct 29, 2007

Tough enough for Mars, but deinococcus is from Earth

A recent study reveals Deinococcus geothermalis, a highly radiation-resistant bacterium, originated on Earth, not Mars. Contrary to previous speculation, the research defines a minimal set of genes responsible for its extreme resistance, offering hope for conferring this trait to other organisms.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateSep 25, 2007

Deep into the machinery of adult fragile X

Fragile X tremor/ataxia syndrome (FXTAS) is a recently identified neurological disorder affecting middle-aged adults, causing Parkinson's-like symptoms and cognitive decline. Researchers discovered that the mutation causing FXTAS triggers a failure of messenger RNA transport within neurons, leading to lethal clogging of brain cells.

SourceCell Press·JournalNeuron·DateAug 15, 2007

Errors in cancer diagnosis put patients in harm's way

A study found that errors in cancer diagnosis were relatively frequent and institution-dependent, with gynecologic errors resulting in harm in 45% of cases. The majority of errors were caused by sub-optimal specimen collection, while pathologist misinterpretation ranged from 5-50%.

SourceWiley·JournalCancer·DateOct 10, 2005

Pinpointing a culprit molecule in Alzheimer's disease

Researchers created transgenic mice overproducing Ab40 and Ab42 to study their roles in AD pathology. The results showed that Ab42 mice accumulated extensive amyloid plaque and neural damage, while Ab40 mice showed little disease pathology. The study provides evidence for the critical role of Ab42 in initiating amyloid deposition.

SourceCell Press·JournalNeuron·DateJul 20, 2005

Alternate view for pathology of AD

A team of researchers from Case Western Reserve University propose an alternate view on the pathology of Alzheimer's disease (AD), suggesting that neurofibrillary tangles (NFTs) may be protective against oxidative stress. NFT-bearing neurons can survive for decades, and their presence may be a response to reduce oxidative damage.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalTrends in Molecular Medicine·DateApr 18, 2005

Cell death promotes learning growth

A recent study published in Molecular Psychiatry reveals that cell death promotes learning and growth in the brain. The research found that rats with lower levels of cell death performed better in spatial learning tasks, suggesting a positive correlation between cell death and cognitive function.

SourceMolecular Psychiatry·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·DateNov 26, 2003

Postmortem guidelines are frequently not followed

A study at Royal Hallamshire Hospital found that most death certificates were completed by junior medical staff, with only a third issued by senior members. Necropsy rates have declined since 1993, raising concerns about the impact of recent 'organ retention scandal'.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalJournal of Clinical Pathology·DateJun 30, 2003

Golden years after a medical career?

A study of retired physicians and their spouses found that both groups enjoyed very high life satisfaction following retirement. The happiest retirees were those who had chosen to retire at a young age and had progressed through the initial post-retirement adjustment phase. Factors associated with better life satisfaction for the physi...

SourceIndiana University·JournalSocial Psychiatry and Psychiatric Epidemiology·DateMay 8, 2003

Rat genes increase Vitamin C in plants

Researchers at Virginia Tech have discovered a way to stimulate the production of Vitamin C in lettuce and other plants using rat genes. This breakthrough could lead to longer shelf life and improved nutrition, particularly in developing countries where access to fresh produce is limited.