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What happens inside a membrane

Researchers at SISSA have developed a novel method to analyze the structure of biological proteins immersed in their physiological context. This technique allows for excellent spatial resolution and study of molecules in their natural environment, providing new insights into the opening/closing mechanism of major ion channels. The stud...

SourceInternational School of Advanced Studies (SISSA)·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 20, 2015

Outside the box: UCLA uses brain aneurysm treatment to stop irregular heart rhythms

Researchers at UCLA successfully treated two patients with severe ventricular arrhythmias using a minimally invasive technique normally employed in treating brain aneurysms. The coil embolization procedure helped stop the electrical storms and eliminate the blood supply to the affected area, allowing the heart to return to normal rhythm.

Fine tuning cardiac ablation could lead to quicker results for patients with arrhythmias

Researchers at Michigan Medicine have developed a safer method for steadying abnormal heart rhythms, using photodynamic therapy to target specific cells causing the arrhythmia. This cell-specific approach aims to decrease unwanted cell injury and inflammation, paving the way for more effective therapies.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalInternational Journal of Heart Rhythm·DateJul 24, 2012

Teenagers are more vulnerable to sport concussions

Research by Université de Montrêl neuropsychologist Dave Ellemberg shows that adolescents are more sensitive to the effects of a sport-related concussion than adults or children. The study found that a first concussion can result in six months to a year of neurophysiological side effects for adolescents, adults, and children alike.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalBrain Injury·DateFeb 28, 2012

Particulate air pollution affects heart health

Researchers found that particulate air pollution from PM2.5 exposure can affect heart electrophysiology up to six hours after inhalation, leading to increased risk of cardiovascular disease. Elevated PM2.5 levels may trigger acute cardiac events and contribute to chronic heart disease.

SourcePenn State·JournalEnvironmental Health Perspectives·DateMay 19, 2010

Laka: 'Language exists in the brain'

The La Mente Bilingüe research team, led by Dr. Itziar Laka, investigates language acquisition and processing in bilingual brains. They use experimental methodologies to understand how languages are organized and processed, including analyzing word order and syntax, and exploring the effect of age on phonology, vocabulary, and grammar.

A neural mosaic of tones

Researchers created frequency maps for most of the 11 auditory cortex fields (ACFs) and observed a periodic pattern of topographic preference for certain frequencies. The ACFs were divided into two groups, with three core fields reacting to individual frequencies in simple sounds like tones.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalPLOS Biology·DateJun 22, 2006

Few young competitive athletes survive sudden cardiac arrest

A study published by The Reis Group found that the survival rates of young competitive athletes experiencing sudden cardiac arrest are significantly lower than expected, even with proper CPR and defibrillation. The authors suggest that underlying heart conditions may be a major factor contributing to these poor outcomes.

SourceThe Reis Group·JournalHeart Rhythm·DateJun 20, 2006

Study proves catheter ablation safe for patients

A study published in Pacing and Clinical Electrophysiology journal confirms catheter ablation is safe for patients, with no significant damage to cardiac nerves. The procedure is now a standard therapy for various arrhythmias, including SVT, atrial fibrillation, and AV nodal re-entrant tachycardia.

SourceBlackwell Publishing Ltd.·JournalPacing and Clinical Electrophysiology·DateJan 31, 2005

Benchmark treatment for heart disorders safe for children of all ages

A new study published in the Journal of Cardiovascular Electrophysiology found radiofrequency ablation to be a safe and effective treatment for children with various forms of heart problems. The procedure showed high success rates, with over 98% of patients able to be cured, regardless of demographics or specific disorder location.

SourceBlackwell Publishing Ltd.·JournalJournal of Cardiovascular Electrophysiology·DateSep 30, 2004