January 26, 2009
Space
Technology Yields New Cataract Detection Technique
A compact fiber-optic probe developed for the space program has
now been used to create the first non-invasive device for early
detection of cataracts, the leading cause of vision loss worldwide.
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Sodium/Potassium
Ratio Linked to Cardiovascular Disease Risk
Two nutrients, sodium and potassium, likely work together to
affect blood pressure and heart disease risk, according to a
new study.
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Time
of Day Can Be Critical in Chemotherapy
The time of day that chemotherapy drugs are taken may be a major
factor in the effectiveness of the treatment and the extent of
its side effects, according to a new study. The results have
important implications for cancer treatment.
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January 12, 2009
New
Tool to Predict Colorectal Cancer Risk
A new tool for calculating colorectal cancer risk for people
age 50 or older recently came online. It will help health care
providers and their patients make informed choices about when
and how to screen for colorectal cancer.
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Deep
Brain Stimulation Curbs Parkinson Symptoms
Scientists reported that a therapy for treating Parkinson’s disease
called deep brain stimulation improved quality of life and gave
patients more daily hours without troubling movement symptoms
than standard medical care.
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Eye
Cells Are Out of Sight
A new study sheds light on how a particular kind of cell in the
eye—crucial for light-related functions other than seeing—detects
light and communicates with the brain. A better understanding
of these cells may eventually lead to treatments for sleep problems
or seasonal depression.
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Research Matters 2008 Recap
NIH
has nearly 6,000 NIH staff scientists and supports more than
325,000 researchers with competitive grants to all 50 states,
the territories and more than 90 countries around the world.
Here's just a small sampling of the accomplishments made by NIH-supported
scientists in 2008.
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December 15, 2008
Dietary
Supplements Fail to Prevent Prostate Cancer
Two large-scale clinical trials found that regular intake of
vitamin E, vitamin C or selenium does not reduce the risk of
prostate cancer or other cancers in older men, as some previous
studies had suggested.
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Compound
Helps Detect Cancer Cells in Mice
A new imaging compound helps researchers visualize viable breast
cancer cells that have spread to the lungs of mice. Similar compounds
may one day help doctors monitor their patient’s tumors and even
aid in tumor removal.
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New
Genetic Target for Sickle Cell Disease Therapy
Researchers have identified a gene involved in the inherited
blood disorders sickle cell disease and thalassemia. The discovery
identifies a potential new target for therapies that could dramatically
alter the course of the disorders.
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December 8, 2008
Gene
Activity Can Predict Survival Rates of Patients with Lymphoma
A new study shows that gene activity can be used to predict survival
rates of people with a type of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma called
diffuse large B-cell lymphoma. The method can potentially be
used to guide treatment and to help develop future therapies.
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Gut
Microbiomes Differ Between Obese and Lean People
A new study has found that obese and lean twins have clear differences
in their gut microbial communities. The finding points the way
for future research into the roles that gut microbes may play
in obesity and other health conditions.
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Experimental
Drug Destroys TB Bacteria From Within
Scientists have discovered how an experimental drug unleashes
its destructive force inside the bacteria that cause tuberculosis.
The finding could help scientists develop new approaches for
combating dormant infections, which are especially difficult
to treat.
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