People living with mental health disorders who benefit from medication may try several types before finding a solution that helps manage their symptoms. But what if a simple blood test could help doctors understand what medication might work best for patients at the start of their treatment? That’s an idea gaining traction and the focus […]
‘On-Again, Off-Again’ Relationships May Be More Trouble Than They’re Worth
TUESDAY, Sept. 4, 2018 — Ross and Rachel from “Friends” did it. So did Carrie and Mr. Big from “Sex and the City.” But couples who break up and then make up repeatedly — in what’s known as “relationship cycling” — may be setting themselves up for a heap of emotional turmoil, new research shows. […]
Mouse models may not accurately mimic severity of gonorrhea infection
There is an urgent need to develop a vaccine to prevent gonorrhea infection due to rapidly increasing incidence and growing antibiotic resistance. BUSM researchers (in collaboration with University of Toronto researchers) have been investigating the use of animal models of gonorrhea, to study how the infection evolves and for potential use to determine the efficacy […]
Children born through IVF may have higher risk of hypertension
Children conceived through assisted reproductive technologies may be at an increased risk of developing arterial hypertension early in life, among other cardiovascular complications, according to a Swiss study published today in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology. Developed in 1978, assisted reproductive technologies (ART) has helped millions of individuals and families who cannot […]
Opium Poppy Genome Research May Aid Painkiller Production
MONDAY, Sept. 3, 2018 — Scientists who decoded the opium poppy genome say the breakthrough might improve production of the plant to provide a cheap, reliable supply of pain relievers and other medications. The opium poppy is used to make the cough suppressant noscapine, and the painkillers morphine and codeine. “Biochemists have been curious for […]
Meat & Cheese May Actually Make Your Heart Healthier (& We Couldn't Be Happier)
Good news, carnivores: Meat, cheese and dairy products aren’t just part of a well-balanced diet, they are good for your heart, at least according to a new report. Of course, this information is contrary to much of what we have been told (i.e., current dietary recommendations suggest eating lots of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, low-fat […]
Wording used may affect thyroid cancer patients’ anxiety, choices
(HealthDay)—The terminology used to describe small papillary thyroid cancers (PTCs) may affect patients’ anxiety levels and treatment choices, according to a study published online Aug. 23 in JAMA Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery. Brooke Nickel, M.P.H., from the University of Sydney, and colleagues performed a randomized crossover study of 550 Australian adults without a history of […]
Depression may raise risk of heart attack and stroke
People with symptoms of anxiety and depression may have a greater risk of heart attack and stroke, a study has found. Researchers say their findings add to growing evidence of a link but that further studies are needed to understand how poor mental health can lead to cardiovascular diseases. Mental health Experts at the Universities […]
HIV RNA expression inhibitors may restore immune function in HIV-infected individuals
Immune activation and inflammation persist in the majority of treated HIV-infected individuals and is associated with excess risk of mortality and morbidity. A new study by Boston University School of Medicine (BUSM) researchers suggests that use of HIV RNA expression inhibitors as adjunct therapy might diminish atypical inflammation and restore immune function in HIV-infected individuals […]
Safe’ UV light may prevent infections in catheters, cardiac drivelines
A specific wavelength of ultraviolet light, now delivered through light-diffusing optical fibers, is highly effective at killing drug-resistant bacteria in cell cultures, according to a new study led by David J. Brenner, Ph.D., a professor of radiation biophysics at Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons. The technology is designed to prevent infections around […]