NIH Research Matters
March 2008 Archive
March 31, 2008
Newly Identified Compounds Can Block Parasitic Worms
Scientists have identified a molecule that holds promise for treating schistosomiasis, a disease caused by a parasitic worm that afflicts more than 200 million people worldwide. The compound can destroy all 3 major species of Schistosoma worms that infect humans. It also blocked all stages of the worm's development in infected mice.
Gene Variations Affect PTSD Risk for Adults Abused as Children
Certain gene variations, a new study has found, make adults who were abused as children more likely to develop posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) after a traumatic event.
“Virtual” Flu Outbreak Points to Options for Preventing Spread
By simulating an outbreak of pandemic flu as it spreads throughout a large city, researchers have identified public responses—like closing schools and giving anti-viral treatments—that might significantly slow the spread of infection. These tactics could give researchers more time to develop targeted vaccines, the scientists say.
March 17, 2008
Brief Personal Counseling May Help Maintain Weight Loss
Losing weight can be a struggle, but keeping it off can feel like a losing battle. Now a large clinical study shows that monthly personal counseling—usually just 10-15 minutes by phone—can help people who've lost weight keep much of it off for over 2 years. A web-based program also showed modest success in helping people keep lost pounds at bay.
Newly Identified Genetic Variations May Affect Breast Cancer Risk
Researchers have identified genetic variations in a region of DNA that may be associated with the risk for breast cancer. The finding is just the latest from a slew of ongoing genome-wide association studies funded by NIH.
Coiled Protein Region May Play Role in Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma
Genetic mutations found in patients who have an especially deadly form of non-Hodgkin lymphoma have led researchers to a better understanding of how the cancer develops and how it might be treated.
March 10, 2008
Flu Virus Fortified In Colder Weather
A new finding may explain why the flu virus is more infectious in cold winter months than during warmer seasons.
Increased Allergen Levels in Homes Linked to Asthma
A national survey found that asthmatics with allergies may be able to alleviate their asthma symptoms by reducing allergen levels in their homes.
Experimental Drug Dampens Alcohol Craving
Blocking stress-related circuits in the brain can reduce the desire for alcohol in people who are trying to stop drinking, a small clinical study has found. The discovery may provide a new approach for developing alcoholism treatments.
March 3, 2008
Smoking Alters Gene Activity in Lungs and Tumors
The strong link between smoking and lung cancer has long been clear, but the underlying genetic and molecular changes have been harder to pin down. Now NIH scientists have shown that cigarette smoking distinctively alters gene activity and that these changes can persist for years, contributing to cancer long after a person has kicked the habit.
Computers Detect Alzheimer's Disease in Brain Scans
Computers can be trained to detect early signs of Alzheimer's disease in MRI brain scans, according to a new report. The finding could help doctors diagnose the disease earlier and more accurately than they can now, so treatment can begin earlier.
Uncovering the Molecular Basis of Learning and Memory
Researchers have developed a way to pinpoint the molecules involved in forming a specific memory. The finding, in genetically engineered mice, gives scientists new insight into how memories are formed.
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About NIH Research Matters
Harrison Wein, Ph.D., Editor
Vicki Contie, Assistant Editor
NIH Research Matters is a weekly update of NIH research highlights from the Office of Communications and Public Liaison, Office of the Director, National Institutes of Health.
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