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Inside the chicken brain

Scientists develop a mathematical model of a three-cell microcircuit in a chicken's brain, revealing an elegant compromise between abstraction and complexity. The model reduces the system to one equation with two parameters, shedding light on why it's difficult to understand the brain using traditional methods.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalPhysical Review E·DateDec 6, 2009

Study compares 2 nonsurgical treatments for reflux disease

Two non-surgical treatments for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) have been found to be effective in reducing medication use and improving symptoms, according to a recent study. Radiofrequency therapy appears effective for reducing heartburn and cough, while full-thickness plication may be beneficial for patients with regurgitation.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Surgery·DateJan 19, 2009

Scientists produce illusion of body-swapping

Cognitive neuroscientists successfully created an illusion of body-swapping by manipulating sensory impressions, allowing subjects to perceive a mannequin's body as their own. This discovery sheds light on how the brain constructs an internal image of the body and has potential practical uses in VR applications.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateDec 2, 2008

Stomach ulcer bug causes bad breath

A recent study discovered that Helicobacter pylori bacteria can be found in the mouths of people with halitosis without showing signs of stomach disease. The researchers found a significant association between the presence of H. pylori and periodontal disease, which is also a cause of bad breath.

SourceMicrobiology Society·JournalJournal of Medical Microbiology·DateNov 24, 2008

Mayo Clinic discovery may help diabetic gastric problem

Researchers have found a potential solution for diabetic gastroparesis by increasing production of a key molecule in the digestive process. The study, published in Gastroenterology, shows that a red blood cell derivative can restore normal gastric emptying and improve glucose control.

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalGASTROENTEROLOGY·DateSep 25, 2008

ASGE issues guidelines on the role of endoscopy in the bariatric surgery patient

The American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (ASGE) has issued guidelines on the role of endoscopy in bariatric surgery patients. The guidelines emphasize the importance of preoperative endoscopy to detect lesions that may affect surgery and postoperative symptoms or conditions, such as nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain.

SourceAmerican Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy·JournalGastrointestinal Endoscopy·DateJul 25, 2008

Device blocking stomach nerve signals shows promise in obesity

A new implantable device blocks stomach nerve signals, resulting in significant weight loss in obese participants. The study found that a quarter of patients lost over 25% of their excess weight and three patients lost more than 30%. A follow-up double-blinded study will be conducted to assess the device's true effectiveness.

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalSurgery·DateJun 26, 2008

New pathogen from pigs' stomach ulcers

Scientists have isolated a new bacterium, Helicobacter suis, in pigs' stomachs using a pioneering technique. The bacterium is associated with stomach ulcers in pigs, which may cause sudden death, and has been linked to an increased risk of infection in humans who are close to the animals.

SourceMicrobiology Society·JournalINTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF SYSTEMATIC AND EVOLUTIONARY MICROBIOLOGY·DateJun 8, 2008

Z-shaped incision enhances minimally invasive surgery

Researchers at Penn State developed a novel surgical technique using a Z-shaped incision to access the stomach, promising reduced bleeding and complication rates. The technique has potential applications in minimally invasive surgeries, such as intestinal bypass surgery and organ biopsies.

SourcePenn State·JournalGastrointestinal Endoscopy·DateDec 17, 2007

Is Clostridium difficile-associated disease linked to use of common stomach medication?

A recent study found a possible link between the use of proton pump inhibitors and an increased risk of community-acquired Clostridium difficile-associated disease. The research, published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal, suggests that patients who have been prescribed these medications may be more likely to develop CDAD.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateSep 25, 2006

Road wends its way through stomach

A computer model of the stomach revealed a narrow path, dubbed the Magenstrasse, where food exits rapidly and particles are processed differently. This discovery may explain observed high variability in drug initiation time and have important implications for drug delivery and digestion.

SourcePenn State·JournalJournal of Biomechanics·DateSep 18, 2006