MedWorm: Baylor College of Medicine

Fruit flies drawn to the sweet smell of youth

EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health — Thu, 09 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

(Baylor College of Medicine) Aging takes its toll on sex appeal and now an international team of researchers led by Baylor College of Medicine and the University of Michigan find that in fruit flies, at least, it even diminishes the come-hither effect of the chemicals of love -- pheromones. (Source: EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health)

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Targeted Therapy in Bone and Soft Tissue Sarcoma in Children and Adolescents

Current Oncology Reports — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 18:17:02 +0100

Abstract Pediatric soft-tissue and bone sarcomas are a heterogeneous group of tumors of mesenchymal origin which affect approximately 1,500 children in the United States each year. Using multimodal therapy (surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy), the overall 5-year survival rate for children with soft-tissue and bone sarcomas is approximately 60%–70%. However, the prognosis for children with metastatic or recurrent disease is poor; and, furthermore, the improvements in the overall cure rate have slowed. It is highly unlikely that further advances in the treatment of pediatric soft-tissue and bone sarcomas will come from traditional cytotoxic chemotherapy. Based on research advances in understanding the biology of pediatric soft-tissue and bone sarcomas, improved cure rate...

Review of Inhaled Nitric Oxide in the Pediatric Cardiac Surgery Setting

Pediatric Cardiology — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 17:13:49 +0100

Abstract Surgical intervention for congenital heart disease (CHD) can be complicated by pulmonary hypertension (PH), which increases morbidity, mortality, and medical burden. Consequently, postoperative management of PH is an important clinical consideration to improve outcomes. Inhaled nitric oxide (iNO) is a widely accepted standard of care for PH and has been studied in the context of cardiac surgery for CHD. However, large randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, multicenter clinical trials in pediatric patients are limited. This review will provide an overview of the clinical studies in this setting and will discuss general treatment considerations to facilitate a better understanding of the clinical use of iNO for PH after pediatric cardiac surgery. Content ...

BCM gains new international collaborators

Baylor College of Medicine News — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

(Source: Baylor College of Medicine News)

Genetic background modulates behavioral impairments in R6/2 mice and suggests a role for dominant genetic modifiers in Huntington’s disease pathogenesis

Mammalian Genome — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 07:09:38 +0100

This study reports that the presence of the DBA/2J allele results in amelioration or exacerbation of several HD-like phenotypes characteristic of the R6/2 mouse model and indicates the presence of dominant genetic modifiers of HD symptoms. This study is the first step in identifying genes that confer natural genetic variation and modify the HD symptoms. This identification may lead to novel targets for treatment and help elucidate the molecular mechanisms of HD pathogenesis. Content Type Journal ArticlePages 1-11DOI 10.1007/s00335-012-9391-5Authors Randi-Michelle Cowin, Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USANghiem Bui, Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USADeanna Graha...

Pleiotropic Effects of Statins: The Role of Eicosanoid Production

Current Atherosclerosis Reports — Sat, 28 Jan 2012 16:50:51 +0100

Abstract The 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A (HMG-CoA) reductase inhibitors (statins) have potent anti-inflammatory, vasodilatory and anti-platelet effects that are independent of the lipid-lowering effects. These non–lipid-lowering or pleiotropic effects are dependent on HMG-CoA reductase inhibition in tissues other than the liver. In animal models, high-dose statins upregulate cytosolic phospholipase A2 and cyclooxygenase-2, leading to increased production of prostacyclin and 15-deoxy-PGJ2. In addition, statins activate protein kinase A, which phosphorylates 5-lipoxygenase, resulting in decreased production of the pro-inflammatory leukotrienes and increased production of 15-epi-lipoxin A4, an eicosanoid with potent anti-inflammatory and inflammation-resolution pro...

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BCM Cancer Genetics Laboratory offers cutting-edge testing

Baylor College of Medicine News — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

(Source: Baylor College of Medicine News)

Guntupalli awarded highest honor from President of India

Baylor College of Medicine News — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

(Source: Baylor College of Medicine News)

The Role of Carotid Intimal Thickness and Plaque Imaging in Risk Stratification for Coronary Heart Disease

Current Atherosclerosis Reports — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 16:45:47 +0100

This article reviews the available data related to the use of CIMT and plaque information in CHD risk prediction. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Coronary Heart Disease (J Farmer, Section Editor)Pages 1-9DOI 10.1007/s11883-012-0225-4Authors Smita I. Negi, Section of Atherosclerosis and Vascular Medicine, Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USAVijay Nambi, Section of Atherosclerosis and Vascular Medicine, Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA Journal Current Atherosclerosis ReportsOnline ISSN 1534-6242Print ISSN 1523-3804 (Source: Current Atherosclerosis Reports)

Solving The Mystery Of Membrane Fusion

Health News from Medical News Today — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 08:00:00 +0100

The many factors that contribute to how cells communicate and function at the most basic level are still not fully understood, but researchers at Baylor College of Medicine have uncovered a mechanism that helps explain how intracellular membranes fuse, and in the process, created a new physiological membrane fusion model. The findings appear in the current edition of the journal PLoS Biology. "Within our cells, we have communicating compartments called vesicles (a bubble-like membrane structure that stores and transports cellular products)," said Dr... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

Alkek Center for Metagenomics and Microbiome Research awards pilot project grants

Baylor College of Medicine News — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

(Source: Baylor College of Medicine News)

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Low BDNF is associated with cognitive impairment in chronic patients with schizophrenia

Psychopharmacology — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 06:52:38 +0100

Conclusion Our findings suggest that BDNF may be involved in the pathophysiology of schizophrenia, and its associated cognitive impairment, especially immediate memory. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Original InvestigationPages 1-8DOI 10.1007/s00213-012-2643-yAuthors Xiang Yang Zhang, Menninger Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USAJun Liang, Institute of Mental Health, Peking University, Beijing, 100083 People’s Republic of ChinaDa Chun Chen, Beijing HuiLongGuan Hospital, Beijing, 100096 People’s Republic of ChinaMei Hong Xiu, Beijing HuiLongGuan Hospital, Beijing, 100096 People’s Republic of ChinaFu De Yang, Beijing HuiLongGuan Hospital, Beijing, 100096 People’s Republic of ChinaTherese A. Kosten...

Study shows low levels of vitamin D in breastfed Hispanic infants

Baylor College of Medicine News — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

(Source: Baylor College of Medicine News)

Membrane fusion a mystery no more

EurekAlert! - Biology — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

(Baylor College of Medicine) The many factors that contribute to how cells communicate and function at the most basic level are still not fully understood, but researchers at Baylor College of Medicine have uncovered a mechanism that helps explain how intracellular membranes fuse, and in the process, created a new physiological membrane fusion model. (Source: EurekAlert! - Biology)

BCM names Izaguirre to lead expanded technology effort

Baylor College of Medicine News — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

(Source: Baylor College of Medicine News)

Angelaki receives National Academy of Sciences award

Baylor College of Medicine News — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

(Source: Baylor College of Medicine News)

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Membrane fusion no longer mystery

Baylor College of Medicine News — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

(Source: Baylor College of Medicine News)

Scholars program named for BCM physician

Baylor College of Medicine News — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

(Source: Baylor College of Medicine News)

Tanzania: From Texas to Tanzania - Anglican Hospitals Link Up

AllAfrica News: Health and Medicine — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 14:40:47 +0100

ACNS (London)-Senior management and medical officers from St. Luke's Episcopal Health System Houston and Baylor College of Medicine will visit the hospital of the Diocese of Morogoro in Berega at the end of February. This is the first step in a programme to develop links between Anglican hospitals in different parts of the world. These links are designed to provide conduits for the supply of medical equipment, provision of clinical training, and development in hospital management systems. (Source: AllAfrica News: Health and Medicine)

From Cigarette To Emphysema: Mapping The Destructive Path

Health News from Medical News Today — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 08:00:00 +0100

From the cherry red tip of a lighted cigarette through the respiratory tract to vital lung cells, the havoc created by tobacco smoke seems almost criminal, activating genes and portions of the immune system to create inflammation that results in life-shortening emphysema, said researchers led by those at Baylor College of Medicine and the Michael E. DeBakey Veterans Affairs Medical Center... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

Ethnic Differences in the Home Food Environment and Parental Food Practices Among Families of Low-Income Hispanic and African-American Preschoolers

Journal of Immigrant and Minority Health — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 07:46:49 +0100

We examined ethnic differences in the home food environment and parental practices among 706 low-income, African-American and Hispanic families of preschoolers. Questionnaires measured the access and availability of various foods in the home, parental practices, and meal consumption behaviors. Mixed model logistic regression and ANCOVA were used to assess ethnic differences. Unhealthy foods were available for both groups. Hispanic families were more likely to have fresh vegetables (AOR = 2.9, P ≤ 0.001), fruit (AOR = 2.0, P = 0.004), and soda available (AOR = 1.40, P = 0.001) compared to African-Americans. African-Americans families were more likely to restrict (AOR = 0.63, P ≤ 0.001) and reward with de...

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$1.6 million grant awarded to develop cervical cancer screening program for under, uninsured

Baylor College of Medicine News — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

(Source: Baylor College of Medicine News)

Cells dispose of 'garbage' in cyclic waves

Baylor College of Medicine News — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

(Source: Baylor College of Medicine News)

Loss of protein associated with ALS causes mitochondrial disarray

Baylor College of Medicine News — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

(Source: Baylor College of Medicine News)

St. Baldrick's Foundation gives consortium $998,132 grant for childhood cancer research

Baylor College of Medicine News — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

(Source: Baylor College of Medicine News)

Gender and age influence the effects of slow-wave sleep on respiration in patients with obstructive sleep apnea

Sleep and Breathing — Wed, 18 Jan 2012 06:51:08 +0100

Conclusions The upper airway appears to be less susceptible to OSA during SWS than during REM and other NREM sleep. This may be related to phase-specific influences on both dynamic upper airway control as well as loop gain. Gender and age appear to modify this effect. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Original ArticlePages 1-6DOI 10.1007/s11325-011-0644-4Authors Shyam Subramanian, University Hospitals Sleep Center, Case Western Reserve University, 1100 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44106, USASean Hesselbacher, Department of Medicine, Section of Pulmonary, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USAAmarbir Mattewal, Department of Medicine, Section of Pulmonary, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Housto...

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Mapping the destructive path from cigarette to emphysema

EurekAlert! - Biology — Wed, 18 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

(Baylor College of Medicine) In a report online in the journal Science Translational Medicine, the scientists, including two from the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, described the track the toxic smoke takes through the tissues and how they accomplish their destructive work. (Source: EurekAlert! - Biology)

Study maps destructive path from cigarette to emphysema

Baylor College of Medicine News — Wed, 18 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

(Source: Baylor College of Medicine News)

A split latissimus dorsi/serratus anterior muscle flap used for traumatic wrist and forearm reconstruction

European Journal of Plastic Surgery — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 07:05:24 +0100

Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Case ReportPages 1-3DOI 10.1007/s00238-011-0679-6Authors Chuma J. Chike-Obi, Division of Plastic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USAColton H. McNichols, Plastic Surgery, Clinical Care Center, Baylor College of Medicine, 6701 Fannin, CC.610.00, Houston, TX, USAJoshua Cox, Division of Plastic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USABauer Horton, Division of Plastic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USALarry H. Hollier, Division of Plastic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USAShayan Izaddoost, Division of Plastic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA Jour...

Be aware of common cervical cancer symptoms

Baylor College of Medicine News — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

(Source: Baylor College of Medicine News)

Help prevent cervical cancer with HPV vaccine

Baylor College of Medicine News — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Getting the human papillomavirus, or HPV, vaccine provides an important preventative benefit against cervical cancer, said a gynecologic oncologist from Baylor College of Medicine . "Disease prevention and early detection are key in the battle against cancer," said Dr. Celestine Tung, an assistant professor in the department of obstetrics and gynecology in the division of gynecologic oncology at BCM. "With cervical cancer, now we have a way to prevent it with the HPV vaccine." HPV and cervical cancer Approximately 95 percent of cervical cancers are associated with HPV infections, and between 70 to 80 percent of cervical cancers are related to HPV 16 and HPV 18 viral subtypes or strains, Tung said. HPV is the most common sexually transmitted infection affecting between 3...

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Entire Human Genome Sequenced For $1,000

Health News from Medical News Today — Tue, 10 Jan 2012 21:00:00 +0100

Life Technologies has launched the new Benchtop Ion Proton Sequencer, which can determine the entire human genome for $1,000, in as little as one day. Previously, it had taken the machine anywhere from weeks, and even months to sequence a human genome, and would cost between $5,000 and $10,000. Many large medical practices, including Yale School of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, and The Broad Institute, already have their own IonProton Sequencers... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

2 Genes Affect Anxiety, Behavior In Mice With Too Much MeCP2

Health News from Medical News Today — Tue, 10 Jan 2012 08:00:00 +0100

The anxiety and behavioral issues associated with excess MeCP2 protein result from overexpression of two genes (Crh [corticotropin-releasing hormone] and Oprm 1 [mu-opioid receptor MOR 1]), which may point the way to treating these problems in patients with too much of the protein, said Baylor College of Medicine scientists in a report that appears online in the journal Nature Genetics. Much of the work was done at the Jan and Dan L. Duncan Neurological Research Institute at Texas Children's Hospital. MeCP2 is a "Goldilocks" in the protein world... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

Baylor scientists receive $1.35 million from Ovarian Cancer Research Fund

Baylor College of Medicine News — Mon, 09 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

(Source: Baylor College of Medicine News)

2 genes affect anxiety, behavior in mice with too much MeCP2

EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health — Sun, 08 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

(Baylor College of Medicine) The anxiety and behavioral issues associated with excess MeCP2 protein result from overexpression of two genes (Crh [corticotropin-releasing hormone] and Oprm 1 [mu-opioid receptor MOR 1]), which may point the way to treating these problems in patients with too much of the protein, said Baylor College of Medicine scientists. (Source: EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health)

'Exercise in a pill' may protect against extreme heat sensitivity

Baylor College of Medicine News — Sun, 08 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

(Source: Baylor College of Medicine News)

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Two genes affect anxiety, behavior in mice with too much MeCP2

Baylor College of Medicine News — Sun, 08 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

(Source: Baylor College of Medicine News)

Global grants awarded to improve global health outcomes

Baylor College of Medicine News — Fri, 06 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

(Source: Baylor College of Medicine News)

Daam2 amplifies spinal development

Baylor College of Medicine News — Fri, 06 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

(Source: Baylor College of Medicine News)

Physical activity can have immediate impact

Baylor College of Medicine News — Thu, 05 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

(Source: Baylor College of Medicine News)

Fluorescent rabies virus tracks how experience alters neural circuits | Mo Costandi | Neurophilosophy blog

Guardian Unlimited Science — Wed, 04 Jan 2012 19:28:00 +0100

A technique called monosynaptic tracing reveals how experience remodels olfactory bulb microcircuitryContrary to an age-old dogma, the brain is not fixed and immutable. After decades of research, we now know that the brains of mammals (including humans) can produce new cells after embryonic development is ended. We also know that experience alters the connections between nerve cells in a number of ways, and it is widely believed that this process, which is referred to as synaptic plasticity, is critical for learning and memory. The adult mammalian brain contains two discrete niches of stem cells which retain the ability to generate new neurons. In rodents, it is well established that newborn cells integrate into the existing circuitry and contribute to information processing, but exactly h...

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New year doesn't mean end of flu season

Baylor College of Medicine News — Wed, 04 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

(Source: Baylor College of Medicine News)

Set simple nutritional goals for new year

Baylor College of Medicine News — Wed, 04 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Many people start the new year with a resolution to lose weight through diet and exercise. But a nutritional expert at Baylor College of Medicine suggests that goals should be about more than just weight loss. "Beyond weight loss, set goals to improve the one thing that only you can do – take care of the body you have been given," said Roberta Anding, registered dietitian at BCM. One way to do this is by adopting some simple nutritional strategies, Anding said. These include: Set goals to eat breakfast, such as oatmeal, fruit and milk. This keeps you from being hungry throughout the day. Plan to add more fruits and vegetables to your diet. Fill half your plate with fruits and veggies. Choose lean protein. Look for meats that have the words "loin" and "round&q...

Meet OCRF's 2012 Grantees

OCRF News — Tue, 03 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

OCRF has awarded $5.4 million in new research grants to fourteen investigators from top research institutions across the country. OCRF has awarded $5.4 million in grants for ovarian cancer research this year. After receiving over 100 applications – the highest number in its history – OCRF and its prestigious Scientific Advisory Committee endeavored first and foremost to fund the best science. The Committee evaluated each proposal through intensive peer review, and selected a sound portfolio of 2012 grants that represent the present and future of ovarian cancer research.These exciting grants address two important themes in the field: understanding how and where ovarian cancer originates at the molecular genetic and tissue levels; and developing novel, creative approaches to impr...

St. Baldrick's Foundation awards more than $40,000 grant to Vannie E. Cook Jr. Children's Cancer Clinic

Baylor College of Medicine News — Wed, 28 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100

(Source: Baylor College of Medicine News)

Primary Care Physician’s Knowledge of Ethnicity-Specific Guidelines for Obesity Diagnosis and Readiness for Obesity Intervention Among South Asian Indians

Journal of Immigrant and Minority Health — Sat, 24 Dec 2011 16:42:15 +0100

Abstract Many primary care physicians lack sufficient knowledge on current guidelines for overweight/obesity diagnosis among minority groups. We assessed physician knowledge and awareness on modified guidelines for identifying obesity among South Asian Indians (SAIs). Cross sectional survey of 183 physicians practicing in Houston, who reported on their knowledge on guidelines for obesity among SAIs, frequency of measurement of surrogate markers, self-reported competency in management of obesity, and readiness to seek training on obesity diagnosis among SAIs. 65% of physicians agree obesity is a growing problem among SAIs with only 9% of physicians reporting measuring waist circumference. Only 21% of physicians were aware of the recommended WHO modified BMI criteria and 41%...

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The Role of Trust in Delayed HIV Diagnosis in a Diverse, Urban Population

AIDS and Behavior — Sat, 24 Dec 2011 16:42:00 +0100

Abstract Delayed diagnosis of HIV infection is a common problem. We hypothesized that persons with less trust in physicians and in the healthcare system would be diagnosed with lower CD4 cell counts than persons with more trust because they would delay seeking healthcare. From January 2006 to October 2007, 171 newly diagnosed HIV-infected persons, not yet in HIV primary care, were recruited from HIV testing sites in Houston, Texas, that primarily serve the under- and un-insured. The participants completed instruments measuring trust in physicians and trust in the healthcare system. Initial CD4 cell counts were obtained from medical record review. Mean trust scores for participants with CD4 cell counts ≥200 cells/mm3 were compared with scores from participants with CD...

Erratum to: Conditional transgenic expression of TIR-domain-containing adaptor-inducing interferon-β (TRIF) in the adult mouse heart is protective in acute viral myocarditis

Basic Research in Cardiology — Wed, 21 Dec 2011 20:05:12 +0100

Content Type Journal ArticleCategory ErratumPages 1-1DOI 10.1007/s00395-011-0234-4Authors Zhaohui Xu, Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine and Texas Children’s Hospital, 1102 Bates Street, FC 430.09, Houston, TX 77030, USAMoreshwar Desai, Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine and Texas Children’s Hospital, 1102 Bates Street, FC 430.09, Houston, TX 77030, USAJoseph Philip, Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine and Texas Children’s Hospital, 1102 Bates Street, FC 430.09, Houston, TX 77030, USANatarajan Sivsubramanian, Department of Medicine, Winters Center for Heart Failure Research, Baylor College of Medicine and Texas Children’s Hospital, Houston, TX, USANeil E. Bowles, Department of Pediatrics, Division of Cardiology, University of...

Re: β-Catenin is Essential for Müllerian Duct Regression During Male Sexual Differentiation

The Journal of Urology — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100

A. Kobayashi, C. A. Stewart, Y. Wang, K. Fujioka, N. C. Thomas, S. P. Jamin and R. R. Behringer Program in Developmental Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas (Source: The Journal of Urology)

Tolerability and pharmacokinetic profile of a sunitinib powder formulation in pediatric patients with refractory solid tumors: a Children’s Oncology Group study

Cancer Chemotherapy and Pharmacology — Sat, 17 Dec 2011 16:43:43 +0100

Conclusions The pharmacokinetic profile of sunitinib appears similar between a powder formulation and published data using capsules. The powder formulation allows patients unable to swallow capsules to receive sunitinib. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Original ArticlePages 1-7DOI 10.1007/s00280-011-1798-2Authors Steven G. DuBois, Department of Pediatrics, UCSF School of Medicine, 505 Parnassus Avenue, M646, San Francisco, CA 94143-0106, USASuzanne Shusterman, Department of Pediatrics, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Children’s Hospital Boston, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USAJoel M. Reid, Department of Pharmacology, Mayo College of Medicine, Rochester, MN, USAAshish M. Ingle, Children’s Oncology Group Operations Center, Arcadia, CA, USACharlotte H. Ahe...

Sudden Death In Rett Syndrome May Be Explained By Brain And Heart Link

Health News from Medical News Today — Sat, 17 Dec 2011 08:00:00 +0100

Poets might scoff at the notion that heart and brain are closely related, but scientists led by those at Baylor College of Medicine say a genetic defect that affects the brain can stop a heart. In a study published in the journal Science Translational Medicine, BCM researchers and colleagues found that heart problems that occur in nearly 20 percent of children with Rett syndrome, a neurological disorder, originate because the Rett gene (MeCP2) is lost in nerve cells - not in heart muscle cells... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

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Diagnosis and Treatment of Autoimmune Hepatitis

Current Gastroenterology Reports — Fri, 16 Dec 2011 16:54:21 +0100

Abstract Autoimmune hepatitis is a chronic liver disease characterized by elevated aminotransferase levels, autoantibodies, increased γ-globulin or IgG levels and biopsy evidence of interface hepatitis. Recent advances include new practice guidelines that redefine criteria for remission to require complete biochemical and histological normalization on therapy; comparisons between the revised original and simplified diagnostic scoring systems; refined characterization of autoantibodies and their diagnostic performance parameters; proof of the safety and efficacy of combination budesonide and azathioprine therapy for non-cirrhotic patients; scrutiny of overlap syndromes; further analyses of the outcomes of orthotopic liver transplantation and the diagnosis and treatment of ...

Talking about holidays keeps blues at bay

Baylor College of Medicine News — Fri, 16 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100

The advice is tried and true: it is best to talk about your problems rather than bottle them up. And with the holiday season at hand, doctors at Baylor College of Medicine say the advice might be helpful for adults and kids alike at keeping the holiday blues at bay. "The holidays are known as a time when family and friends get together. This may be stressful for some, and if you are already suffering from depression or have bad memories associated with this time of year, it can cause what is known as the holiday blues," said Dr. James Bray, associate professor of family and community medicine at BCM. Yuletime could trigger distress Adults may find it stressful to deal with family conflict while children might be dealing with a different type of emotional issue. If a child is away...

Don't let family drama rob you of holiday memories

Baylor College of Medicine News — Fri, 16 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100

Although the "hustle and bustle" of the holidays can be exciting for some, it can cause anxiety in others, especially if they are spending time with family members they have differences with. Surviving tense moments Dr. Asim Shah, assistant professor in the Menninger Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at Baylor College of Medicine , offers tips to survive those tense moments with family during the holidays. "The holidays are a time where you see people that you may not see otherwise, some of whom you may not get along with at all, and they may make you upset, but it's important not to get angry and ruin this special time," said Shah. Here is what he recommends: If you are angry and upset with someone, trade places with the other person and think about the ...

Holidays should focus on family time, traditions

Baylor College of Medicine News — Fri, 16 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100

(Source: Baylor College of Medicine News)

Hectic holidays can raise spirits of chronically ill child

Baylor College of Medicine News — Fri, 16 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100

The holiday season can often cause stress but for a chronically ill child, it can actually offer an emotional boost, according to an expert at Baylor College of Medicine . "The holidays usually are very hectic, but the benefit of seeing family and friends outweighs the hassles of travel and preparation," said Dr. Ernest Frugé, associate professor of pediatrics at Baylor College of Medicine and director of psychosocial programs at Texas Children's Cancer and Hematology Center. "It's no different for a child with a chronic illness." Relationships trump everything else Many families visit relatives during the holiday season or host large gatherings of family and friends. Those road trips and party preparations require a lot of effort. "What it signifies to a ch...

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Waist circumference seems related to children's metabolic risk

Baylor College of Medicine News — Thu, 15 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100

(Source: Baylor College of Medicine News)

Brain, heart link may explain sudden death in Rett

Baylor College of Medicine News — Wed, 14 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100

(Source: Baylor College of Medicine News)

De novo intracranial aneurysm formation following endovascular treatment of giant aneurysm in an infant: case report

Child's Nervous System — Tue, 13 Dec 2011 17:02:49 +0100

Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Case ReportPages 1-4DOI 10.1007/s00381-011-1647-yAuthors Bartley Mitchell, Department of Neurosurgery, Baylor College of Medicine, 1709 Dryden, Suite 750, Houston, TX 77030, USADebadutta Dash, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX 77030, USAWilliam Humphries, Department of Neurosurgery, Baylor College of Medicine, 1709 Dryden, Suite 750, Houston, TX 77030, USAMichel Mawad, Department of Radiology, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, MS 360, Houston, TX 77030, USA Journal Child's Nervous SystemOnline ISSN 1433-0350Print ISSN 0256-7040 (Source: Child's Nervous System)

Breaking Oncogene's Hold On Cancer Cell Provides New Treatment Direction

Health News from Medical News Today — Mon, 12 Dec 2011 08:00:00 +0100

Just as people's bodies and minds can become addicted to substances such as drugs, caffeine, alcohol, their cancers can become addicted to certain genes that insure their continued growth and dominance. Researchers at Baylor College of Medicine and Harvard Medical School have developed ways to exploit the addictions of cancers to kill them without harming normal tissues. A report on their work appears online in the journal Science. Many cancers are driven by the overexpression of oncogenes. These oncogenes are two-faced... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

Neuroscientists Boost Memory Using Genetics And A New Memory-Enhancing Drug

Health News from Medical News Today — Mon, 12 Dec 2011 08:00:00 +0100

When the activity of a molecule that is normally elevated during viral infections is inhibited in the brain, mice learn and remember better, researchers at Baylor College of Medicine reported in a recent article in the journal Cell. "The molecule PKR (the double-stranded RNA-activated protein kinase) was originally described as a sensor of viral infections, but its function in the brain was totally unknown," said Dr. Mauro Costa-Mattioli, assistant professor of neuroscience at BCM and senior author of the paper... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

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Hydroxyurea does not cause genetic damage in children with sickle cell anemia

Baylor College of Medicine News — Mon, 12 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100

(Source: Baylor College of Medicine News)

Loss of enzyme stymies differentiation of blood-forming cells

Baylor College of Medicine News — Mon, 12 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100

(Source: Baylor College of Medicine News)

Immunomedics Creates Targeted Therapeutics for Solid Cancers

Medical News (via PRIMEZONE) — Fri, 09 Dec 2011 13:30:00 +0100

SAN ANTONIO, Dec. 9, 2011 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Immunomedics, Inc. (Nasdaq:IMMU), a biopharmaceutical company primarily focused on the development of monoclonal antibody-based products for the targeted treatment of cancer, autoimmune and other serious diseases, today presented two preclinical studies aimed at producing potent therapeutics for diverse epithelial carcinomas, including breast cancers. Results from these studies were reported at the 2011 CTRC-AACR San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium, which is organized by the Cancer Therapy & Research Center at UT Health Science Center San Antonio, the American Association for Cancer Research, and Baylor College of Medicine. (Source: Medical News (via PRIMEZONE))

Racial and ethnic disparities in outcomes with radiation therapy for rectal adenocarcinoma

International Journal of Colorectal Disease — Fri, 09 Dec 2011 06:50:13 +0100

Conclusions To our knowledge, this is the first study examining the efficacy of radiation therapy for racial/ethnic groups with rectal cancer. Disparate outcomes were observed for the administration of radiation therapy for select racial/ethnic groups. The reasons for these disparities in outcomes should be investigated to better optimize radiation therapy for patients with rectal cancer. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Original ArticlePages 1-13DOI 10.1007/s00384-011-1378-2Authors Wendy Lee, Department of Surgery, City of Hope Comprehensive Cancer Center, 1500 East Duarte Road, Duarte, CA 91010, USARebecca Nelson, Department of Biostatistic, City of Hope Comprehensive Cancer Center, 1500 East Duarte Road, Duarte, CA 91010, USAYasir Akmal, Department of Surger...

BCM researchers advance breast cancer stem cell research

Baylor College of Medicine News — Fri, 09 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100

(Source: Baylor College of Medicine News)

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Pediatric clinical trial investigating vaccine-based therapy for solid tumors

Baylor College of Medicine News — Fri, 09 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100

(Source: Baylor College of Medicine News)

Norovirus Vaccine Provides Significant Protection

Health News from Medical News Today — Thu, 08 Dec 2011 12:00:00 +0100

A study involving 84 volunteers showed that an experimental norovirus vaccine provided considerable protection against infection and symptoms of gastroenteritis, researchers from Baylor College of Medicine reported in NEJM (New England Journal of Medicine). The authors added that theirs is the first study to show protection from norovirus illness due to a vaccine. To date, the only treatment for norovirus illness is to take plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration, and drugs to treat the symptoms of diarrhea and vomiting. First author, Dr... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

“Super” Memory

Medical Headlines From Ivanhoe.com — Thu, 08 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100

(Ivanhoe Newswire) – A memory-enhancing drug has been discovered unexpectedly by researchers at Baylor College of Medicine. (Source: Medical Headlines From Ivanhoe.com)

Neuroscientists boost memory using genetics and a new memory-enhancing drug

EurekAlert! - Social and Behavioral Science — Thu, 08 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100

(Baylor College of Medicine) When the activity of a molecule that is normally elevated during viral infections is inhibited in the brain, mice learn and remember better, researchers at Baylor College of Medicine reported in a recent article in the journal Cell. (Source: EurekAlert! - Social and Behavioral Science)

Breaking oncogene's hold on cancer cell provides new treatment direction

EurekAlert! - Cancer — Thu, 08 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100

(Baylor College of Medicine) Just as people's bodies and minds can become addicted to substances their cancers can become addicted to certain genes that insure their continued growth and dominance.Researchers at Baylor College of Medicine and Harvard Medical School have developed ways to exploit the addictions of cancers to kill them without harming normal tissues. (Source: EurekAlert! - Cancer)

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BCM Teen Clinic takes innovative approach to teen pregnancy education

Baylor College of Medicine News — Thu, 08 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100

(Source: Baylor College of Medicine News)

Neuroscientists boost memory using genetics, new memory-enhancing drug

Baylor College of Medicine News — Thu, 08 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100

(Source: Baylor College of Medicine News)

Johns Hopkins Awarded $16M to Launch New Genetics Research Identify Disease Cause- 12/6/11

Johns Hopkins Medicine News — Wed, 07 Dec 2011 21:57:23 +0100

The McKusick-Nathans Institute of Genetic Medicine at Johns Hopkins in collaboration with Baylor College of Medicine has been named one of three Mendelian Disorders Genome Centers by the National Human Genome Research Institute and will receive $16 million over the next four years to identify causes of genetic disease. The new center will be called the Baylor-Hopkins Center for Mendelian Genomics; the other two centers will be at University of Washington and Yale University. (Source: Johns Hopkins Medicine News)

Vaccine study demonstrates protection against norovirus illness

Baylor College of Medicine News — Wed, 07 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100

(Source: Baylor College of Medicine News)

Obesity linked to worse survival outcomes in breast cancer adjuvant therapy

Baylor College of Medicine News — Wed, 07 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100

(Source: Baylor College of Medicine News)

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Prevalence of Colorectal Polyps in Pediatric Colonoscopy

Digestive Diseases and Sciences — Tue, 06 Dec 2011 16:59:15 +0100

Conclusions Colorectal polyps are detected in 6.1% overall and in 12.0% among those with lower gastrointestinal bleeding during pediatric colonoscopy. Approximately 26% are multiple juvenile or adenoma. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Original ArticlePages 1-6DOI 10.1007/s10620-011-1972-8Authors Kalpesh Thakkar, The Section of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Texas Children’s Hospital and Baylor College of Medicine, 6621 Fannin St CCC 1010, Houston, TX 77030, USAAbeer Alsarraj, The Sections of Gastroenterology and Health Services Research, The Houston Veterans Affairs Medical Center and the Department of Medicine at Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USAEmily Fong, Baylor University, Waco, TX, USAJennifer L. Holub, Department of Gast...

New grant focuses on introduction of genome sequencing into clinical care for children with cancer

Baylor College of Medicine News — Tue, 06 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100

(Source: Baylor College of Medicine News)

NIH renews designation of Baylor College of Medicine genome center

Baylor College of Medicine News — Tue, 06 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100

(Source: Baylor College of Medicine News)

Baylor College of Medicine, Johns Hopkins team to identify single-gene diseases

Baylor College of Medicine News — Tue, 06 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100

(Source: Baylor College of Medicine News)

Peripunctal melanocytic nevus

International Ophthalmology — Mon, 05 Dec 2011 17:34:48 +0100

We report a case of a 37-year-old male with a conjunctival melanocytic nevus presenting in a rare, peripunctal location with preservation of the lacrimal canaliculus and punctum. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Case ReportPages 1-3DOI 10.1007/s10792-011-9485-1Authors Cindy S. Hwang, Department of Ophthalmology, Baylor College of Medicine, Cullen Eye Institute, 1977 Butler Boulevard, Houston, TX 77030, USASeongmu Lee, Department of Ophthalmology, Baylor College of Medicine, Cullen Eye Institute, 1977 Butler Boulevard, Houston, TX 77030, USAMichael T. Yen, Department of Ophthalmology, Baylor College of Medicine, Cullen Eye Institute, 1977 Butler Boulevard, Houston, TX 77030, USA Journal International OphthalmologyOnline ISSN 1573-2630Print ISSN 0165-5701 (Source: Internat...

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Loss of enzyme stymies differentiation of blood-forming cells

Baylor College of Medicine News — Sun, 04 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100

(Source: Baylor College of Medicine News)

Spinal dysraphism associated with the cutaneous lumbosacral infantile hemangioma: a neuroradiological review

Pediatric Radiology — Sat, 03 Dec 2011 16:47:56 +0100

Conclusion A range of spinal anomalies is associated with cutaneous lumbosacral infantile hemangiomas and MRI can be used to characterize these abnormalities. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Original ArticlePages 1-6DOI 10.1007/s00247-011-2262-5Authors Wendy E. Schumacher, Departments of Dermatology and Pediatrics, Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin, Medical College of Wisconsin, P. O. Box 1997, Milwaukee, WI 53201-1997, USABeth A. Drolet, Departments of Dermatology and Pediatrics, Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin, Medical College of Wisconsin, P. O. Box 1997, Milwaukee, WI 53201-1997, USAMohit Maheshwari, Department of Pediatric Radiology, Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USAKimberly A. Horii, Section of Dermatology, Children’s Mercy Hospi...

Molecular subgroups of medulloblastoma: the current consensus

Acta Neuropathologica — Thu, 01 Dec 2011 19:29:51 +0100

Abstract Medulloblastoma, a small blue cell malignancy of the cerebellum, is a major cause of morbidity and mortality in pediatric oncology. Current mechanisms for clinical prognostication and stratification include clinical factors (age, presence of metastases, and extent of resection) as well as histological subgrouping (classic, desmoplastic, and large cell/anaplastic histology). Transcriptional profiling studies of medulloblastoma cohorts from several research groups around the globe have suggested the existence of multiple distinct molecular subgroups that differ in their demographics, transcriptomes, somatic genetic events, and clinical outcomes. Variations in the number, composition, and nature of the subgroups between studies brought about a consensus conference in...

Dysregulation of glucose metabolism in HIV patients: epidemiology, mechanisms, and management

Endocrine — Thu, 01 Dec 2011 19:20:48 +0100

Abstract HIV-infected patients on highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) have increased prevalence of a number of chronic metabolic disorders of multifactorial but unclear etiology. These include disorders of lipid metabolism with or without lipodystrophy, insulin resistance, and an increased prevalence of impaired glucose tolerance, diabetes mellitus, and cardiometabolic syndrome. While much attention has been focused on the lipid and cardiovascular disorders, few investigations have attempted to characterize the prevalence, incidence, etiology, mechanisms, and management of glycemic disorders in HIV patients. In this review, we have focused specifically on a comprehensive assessment of dysglycemia in the context of HIV infection and HAART. Content Type Journal ...

JAMA: Proposed patient-access policy requires research

CMIO.net: The News Weekly for Health IT Executives — Tue, 29 Nov 2011 11:26:30 +0100

Although a proposed policy that would provide patients with the right to request and receive their test results directly from laboratories could empower them and reduce physicians’ workloads, it’s unclear what the specific effects of such a policy would be, according to Hardeep Singh, MD, Baylor College of Medicine in Houston, in a recently published Journal of the American Medical Association commentary. (Source: CMIO.net: The News Weekly for Health IT Executives)

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More research needed to understand impact of direct patient access to test results

Baylor College of Medicine News — Mon, 28 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100

(Source: Baylor College of Medicine News)

Fillers may be fix for skeletal-looking hands

Baylor College of Medicine News — Fri, 25 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100

Aging can take a toll on the hands, increasing the visibility of wrinkles, protruding veins and loose skin. But there are safe and effective hand rejuvenation procedures available to correct these problems, said a plastic surgeon from Baylor College of Medicine. “A lot of men and women are dissatisfied with this aspect of aging,” said Dr. Jason Petrungaro , an assistant professor of surgery – division of plastic surgery at BCM. “The good news is that rejuvenation procedures are available to help fill in some of the hollowness that comes with the protruding veins, wrinkles and loose skin.” Filler fix With the help of fillers, plastic surgeons can offer a quick, easy and safe solution to smooth out those dramatic areas on the hand, restoring a more youthful look...

Re: The Relationship Between Anogenital Distance, Fatherhood, and Fertility in Adult Men

The Journal of Urology — Fri, 25 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100

M. L. Eisenberg, M. H. Hsieh, R. C. Walters, R. Krasnow and L. I. Lipshultz Division of Male Reproductive Medicine and Surgery, Scott Department of Urology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas (Source: The Journal of Urology)

Plasma and cerebrospinal fluid pharmacokinetics of thalidomide and lenalidomide in nonhuman primates

Cancer Chemotherapy and Pharmacology — Wed, 23 Nov 2011 16:39:25 +0100

Conclusion Thalidomide and lenalidomide penetrate into the CSF after oral administration of clinically relevant doses. Plasma exposure to lenalidomide was similar in our model to that observed in studies involving children who have brain tumors. These results support further development of lenalidomide for the treatment of central nervous system malignancies. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Original ArticlePages 1-5DOI 10.1007/s00280-011-1781-yAuthors Jodi A. Muscal, Texas Children’s Cancer Center, Baylor College of Medicine, 1102 Bates Street, Suite 1220, Houston, TX 77030, USAYongkai Sun, Celgene Corporation, Summit, NJ, USAJed G. Nuchtern, Department of Surgery, Texas Children’s Hospital, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USARobert C. Dauser, Depa...

Nerve Cells Key To Making Sense Of Our Senses

Health News from Medical News Today — Tue, 22 Nov 2011 08:00:00 +0100

The human brain is bombarded with a cacophony of information from the eyes, ears, nose, mouth and skin. Now a team of scientists at the University of Rochester, Washington University in St. Louis, and Baylor College of Medicine has unraveled how the brain manages to process those complex, rapidly changing, and often conflicting sensory signals to make sense of our world. The answer lies in a relatively simple computation performed by single nerve cells, an operation that can be described mathematically as a straightforward weighted average... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

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Association between left ventricular mass index and cardiac function in pediatric dialysis patients

Pediatric Nephrology — Mon, 21 Nov 2011 18:08:38 +0100

Conclusions Elevated LVMI is associated with decreased systolic and diastolic cardiac function, justifying its use as a surrogate of hypertensive cardiomyopathy in children undergoing chronic dialysis. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Original ArticlePages 1-7DOI 10.1007/s00467-011-2060-1Authors Pirouz Shamszad, Department of Pediatrics, Lillie Frank Abercrombie Section of Cardiology, Baylor College of Medicine, 6621 Fannin St., MC-19345-C, Houston, 77030 TX, USATimothy C. Slesnick, Department of Pediatrics, Sibley Heart Center Cardiology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GeorgiaE. O’Brian Smith, Department of Pediatrics, Children’s Nutrition Research Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USAMichael D. Taylor, Department of Pediatrics,...

Food safety tips help prevent food poisoning

Baylor College of Medicine News — Mon, 21 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100

The holidays are a time for celebrating with loved ones and enjoying favorite family recipes and tasty treats, so the last thing you want is to get sick from the food you eat. Roberta Anding, a registered dietitian at Baylor College of Medicine, has a few tips so you can make the most of the season. Always use a meat thermometer to check if the turkey or other meat is fully cooked. The color of the turkey can’t determine the safety of the meat. An easy way to remember to what temperature the meat should be cooked is the catchy rhyme, “Bacteria don’t thrive at 165.” Wash your hands frequently and thoroughly during food preparation. Don’t forget, meat isn’t the only food that can make you sick. Wash all produce before cutting and chopping. Refrigerator le...

Smoking during pregnancy significantly affects DNA methylation, gene expression

Baylor College of Medicine News — Mon, 21 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100

(Source: Baylor College of Medicine News)

Nerve cells key to making sense of our senses

EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health — Sun, 20 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100

(University of Rochester) The human brain is bombarded with a cacophony of information from the eyes, ears, nose, mouth and skin. Now a team of scientists at the University of Rochester, Washington University in St. Louis, and Baylor College of Medicine has unraveled how the brain manages to process those complex, rapidly changing, and often conflicting sensory signals to make sense of our world. (Source: EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health)

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Integrating sensory input guides journey

Baylor College of Medicine News — Sun, 20 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100

(Source: Baylor College of Medicine News)

Retinoblastoma Care Should Include Genetic Evaluation

Health News from Medical News Today — Wed, 16 Nov 2011 08:00:00 +0100

Results of a study by Baylor College of Medicine physicians underscore the important role that clinical genetic evaluation can have in the management plan of patients with retinoblastoma, a childhood cancer of the eye. The report documents the success of using a multi-disciplinary team approach to achieving the goal of providing genetic evaluation and testing of all retinoblastoma patients at Texas Children's Cancer Center over an eight-year period. Results were published in the Archives of Ophthalmology... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

BCM launches Whole Exome Sequencing Clinical Test

Baylor College of Medicine News — Wed, 16 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100

(Source: Baylor College of Medicine News)

The Diagnosis and Treatment of Thyroid-Associated Ophthalmopathy

Aesthetic Plastic Surgery — Tue, 15 Nov 2011 06:48:28 +0100

Conclusion Blepharoplasties performed on TAO patients must be undertaken with care and insight to avoid cosmetic and functional complications. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory ReviewPages 1-11DOI 10.1007/s00266-011-9843-4Authors Daniel J. Gould, Department of Plastic Surgery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USAForrest S. Roth, Department of Plastic Surgery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USACharles N. S. Soparkar, Department of Ophthalmology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA Journal Aesthetic Plastic SurgeryOnline ISSN 1432-5241Print ISSN 0364-216X (Source: Aesthetic Plastic Surgery)

Genetic evaluation should be part of retinoblastoma care

Baylor College of Medicine News — Mon, 14 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100

(Source: Baylor College of Medicine News)

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'Moonlighting' enzyme unravels arginine paradox

Baylor College of Medicine News — Sun, 13 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100

(Source: Baylor College of Medicine News)

BIPAI expands rural outreach in Swaziland, opens two satellite centers

Baylor College of Medicine News — Mon, 07 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100

(Source: Baylor College of Medicine News)

In Mouse Model, Exercise Provides Clue To Deadly Ataxia

Health News from Medical News Today — Sun, 06 Nov 2011 08:00:00 +0100

When Dr. John Fryer and Dr. Huda Zoghbi prescribed mild exercise for mice with a neurodegenerative disorder called spinocerebellar ataxia 1 (SCA1), they did not know what to expect. Fryer, then a postdoctoral associate in the lab of Zoghbi, the Baylor College of Medicine researcher who co-discovered the gene for the disorder, was disappointed when the exercise did not affect the mice's gait or walking ability. However, he and Zoghbi decided to put them back in their cages and see what would happen. What they found was the mice that exercised lived longer than those that had not... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

In Situ Hybridization Signal Patterns in Recurrent Laryngeal Squamous Papillomas Indicate that HPV Integration Occurs at an Early Stage

Head and Neck Pathology — Fri, 04 Nov 2011 05:44:45 +0100

Abstract Laryngeal papillomas are benign tumors that frequently recur and can compromise airways. We investigated HPV genotype, physical status, and protein expression in juveniles versus adults. Thirty-five laryngeal papilloma specimens were obtained from ten juveniles (1–16 years) and eleven adults (24–67 years). In cases of recurrent papillomatosis (7 juveniles, 7 adults), the first and last papillomas were assayed. HPV type was determined by GP5+/6+ PCR and dot blot hybridization. In situ hybridization (ISH) was performed on 34 specimens; the data were recorded in terms of diffuse (episomal HPV) and punctate (integrated HPV) signal patterns. Immunohistochemistry for the HPV L1 capsid protein, a marker of HPV productive status, was performed on 32 samples....

Dr. Malcolm Brenner to receive 2011 ASH Mentor Award

Baylor College of Medicine News — Fri, 04 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100

(Source: Baylor College of Medicine News)

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Duncan Cancer Center researchers awarded $13 million in new round of CPRIT grants

Baylor College of Medicine News — Fri, 04 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100

(Source: Baylor College of Medicine News)

Exercise provides clue to deadly ataxia

Baylor College of Medicine News — Thu, 03 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100

(Source: Baylor College of Medicine News)

Houston-led consortium narrows search for familial glioma susceptibility

Baylor College of Medicine News — Thu, 03 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100

(Source: Baylor College of Medicine News)

Meet the World’s Largest Concentration of Hospitals, Physicians, and Clinical Pathology Laboratories

Dark Daily — Wed, 02 Nov 2011 10:00:03 +0100

It’s in Houston, Texas, and is visited by 160,000 people every day If someone asked you to identify where the world’s largest concentration of hospitals, physicians, and medical research institutions is located, would you know that answer? It is the Texas Medical Center (TMC), and it packs a remarkable number of healthcare providers into a [...] (Source: Dark Daily)

Terminating 'Serial Killers' makes cell therapy safer

Baylor College of Medicine News — Wed, 02 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100

(Source: Baylor College of Medicine News)

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New use for old drug could lead to treatment for some forms of epilepsy

Baylor College of Medicine News — Tue, 01 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100

(Source: Baylor College of Medicine News)

BCM young investigator receives V Foundation V Scholar award to study cancer stem cells

Baylor College of Medicine News — Tue, 01 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100

(Source: Baylor College of Medicine News)

$6.6 million NIH grant awarded for brittle bone disease research

Baylor College of Medicine News — Mon, 31 Oct 2011 05:00:00 +0100

(Source: Baylor College of Medicine News)

Influence of gender and anthropometric measures on severity of obstructive sleep apnea

Sleep and Breathing — Fri, 28 Oct 2011 06:04:06 +0100

Conclusion Despite having a higher mean BMI and age, women have lower RDI compared with men. Waist-to-hip ratio is more predictive of severity of OSA in men than in women. However, the correlation of anthropometric measures with severity of OSA was weak in our subjects. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Original ArticlePages 1-5DOI 10.1007/s11325-011-0607-9Authors S. Subramanian, Department of Medicine, Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USAG. Jayaraman, Department of Medicine, Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USAH. Majid, Department of Medicine, Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston...

Effect of a Physician Uncertainty Reduction Intervention on Blood Pressure in Uncontrolled Hypertensives—A Cluster Randomized Trial

Journal of General Internal Medicine — Thu, 27 Oct 2011 15:47:09 +0100

CONCLUSIONS The uncertainty reduction intervention did not achieve the pre-specified dichotomous outcome, but led to lower measured BP in IC patients. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Original ResearchPages 1-7DOI 10.1007/s11606-011-1888-1Authors David J. Hyman, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USAValory N. Pavlik, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USAAnthony J. Greisinger, Kelsey-Seybold Clinic, Houston, TX, USAWenyaw Chan, UT Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, USAJose Bayona, UT Health Science Center at Houston Medical School, Houston, TX, USACarol Mansyur, Old Dominion University, Norfolk, VA, USAVictor Simms, UT Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, USAJames Pool, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA Journal ...

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New center seeks to improve on reproductive health

Baylor College of Medicine News — Thu, 27 Oct 2011 05:00:00 +0100

(Source: Baylor College of Medicine News)

What you eat even before conception may affect your infant

Baylor College of Medicine News — Mon, 24 Oct 2011 05:00:00 +0100

(Source: Baylor College of Medicine News)

Optimizing intraocular lens power calculations in eyes with axial lengths above 25.0 mm

Journal of Cataract and Refractive Surgery — Sun, 23 Oct 2011 05:15:52 +0100

Purpose: To evaluate the accuracy of refractive prediction of 4 intraocular lens (IOL) power calculation formulas in eyes with axial length (AL) greater than 25.0 mm and to propose a method of optimizing AL to improve the accuracy.Setting: Cullen Eye Institute, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA, and Department of Ophthalmology, Goethe University, Frankfurt am Main, Germany.Design: Case series.Methods: Refractive prediction errors with the Holladay 1, Haigis, SRK/T, and Hoffer Q formulas were evaluated in consecutive cases. Eyes were randomized to a group used to develop the method of optimizing AL by back-calculation or a group used for validation. Further validation was performed in 2 additional data sets.Results: The optimized AL values were highly correlated with the IOLMa...

Researchers get $3 million National Institutes of Health grant for mathematical models of prostate cancer aggressiveness

EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health — Fri, 21 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100

(H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute) Alexander R. A. Anderson, Ph.D., co-director of Integrative Mathematical Oncology at Moffitt Cancer Center, and his colleagues, Simon Hayward, Ph.D., at Vanderbilt University and Gustavo Ayala, M.D., at Baylor College of Medicine, have received a five-year, three million dollar grant from the National Institutes of Health to create new mathematical models to predict prostate cancer aggressiveness. (Source: EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health)

BCM's National School of Tropical Medicine hits the ground running

Baylor College of Medicine News — Thu, 20 Oct 2011 05:00:00 +0100

(Source: Baylor College of Medicine News)

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National School of Tropical Medicine announces first educational program

Baylor College of Medicine News — Thu, 20 Oct 2011 05:00:00 +0100

The Diploma in Tropical Medicine offered through the National School of Tropical Medicine at Baylor College of Medicine will be open to all health care professionals including physicians, nurses, physician assistants, dentists and pharmacists. The ten-week course will be offered to health care professionals two times a year, with one session lasting from June through August and another from February through April. Training begins summer 2012 The first students for the degree program will begin training in the summer of 2012. The diploma consists of five modules that are each two weeks long, and the program then requires three months of international experience through a research project. "This diploma is unique because it has more didactic … (Source: Baylor College of Medicine N...

Vaccine development plays major role in National School of Tropical Medicine

Baylor College of Medicine News — Thu, 20 Oct 2011 05:00:00 +0100

Vaccine development is an important component of the National School of Tropical Medicine at Baylor College of Medicine . The Sabin Vaccine Institute and Texas Children's Hospital Center for Vaccine Development have several vaccines in different stages of development. "Through the product development partnership of the Sabin Vaccine Institute, we are making vaccines for neglected tropical diseases in the nonprofit sector right here on the campus of Baylor College of Medicine and Texas Children's Hospital," said Dr. Peter Hotez, dean of the National School of Tropical Medicine at BCM. The Process Researchers are using recombinant protein-based vaccine platforms for the development of these vaccines. They first try to understand what are the pathogen's crucial pathways or … (...

Tropical medicine clinic opens at Ben Taub Hospital

Baylor College of Medicine News — Thu, 20 Oct 2011 05:00:00 +0100

Globalization has opened the door for educational opportunities and travel around the world, but it also has left that door open for tropical diseases that are not commonly seen in the United States. Physicians with Ben Taub General Hospital and Baylor College of Medicine have established a new clinic to address and treat these diseases. The new clinic, located at Ben Taub Hospital, part of the Harris County Hospital District, will see patients on Fridays from 10 a.m. to noon. Because many patients in Harris County come from tropical regions such as Latin America, Asia and Africa, a clinic was needed to address diseases from these parts of the world. In addition, there is a hidden burden of transmission of certain tropical infections in Houston and in Texas. Concentration of NTDs Houston's...

Hotez directs multi-pronged attack on world's neglected diseases

Baylor College of Medicine News — Thu, 20 Oct 2011 05:00:00 +0100

Dr. Peter J. Hotez focuses on the creepy crawly diseases that rarely make headlines but keep a billion of the world's people struggling to survive by sapping their vitality and brainpower. This newest dean at Baylor College of Medicine brings with him the revered name of the Sabin Vaccine Institute, of which he is president, and its vaccine research laboratories that are searching for a way to prevent diseases like hookworm, snail fever, river blindness, Chagas disease and other parasitic infections. These diseases do not have the immediate "star power" of AIDS or malaria, but they have afflicted humanity since Biblical times. Hotez calls them "neglected tropical diseases or NTDs." He is pleased to hear the term on the tongues of politicians and celebrities and hopes it...

Sociocultural and Structural Barriers to Care Among Undocumented Latino Immigrants with HIV Infection

Journal of Immigrant and Minority Health — Wed, 19 Oct 2011 15:45:27 +0100

This study offers insight into the unique sociocultural and structural barriers faced by undocumented Latinos with HIV infection. Understanding and addressing these barriers will prove vital in the development and implementation of strategies to promote early entry into HIV care. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Original PaperPages 1-8DOI 10.1007/s10903-011-9542-xAuthors Bich N. Dang, Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USAThomas P. Giordano, Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USAJennifer H. Kim, Houston Ryan White Planning Council, Houston, TX, USA Journal Journal of Immigrant and Minority HealthOnline ISSN 1557-1920Print ISSN 1557-1912 (Source: Journal of Immigrant and Minority Health)

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Grants support efforts to improve neuroblastoma treatment

Baylor College of Medicine News — Wed, 19 Oct 2011 05:00:00 +0100

(Source: Baylor College of Medicine News)

Carol Channing to be honored at 2011 Women's Health Summit

Baylor College of Medicine News — Mon, 17 Oct 2011 05:00:00 +0100

(Source: Baylor College of Medicine News)

Gibbs named to Institute of Medicine

Baylor College of Medicine News — Mon, 17 Oct 2011 05:00:00 +0100

(Source: Baylor College of Medicine News)

Baylor College of Medicine, Texas Children's Hospital join NIH's Pediatric Heart Network

Baylor College of Medicine News — Fri, 14 Oct 2011 05:00:00 +0100

(Source: Baylor College of Medicine News)

Poorly controlled diabetes 'bad to the bone'

Baylor College of Medicine News — Fri, 14 Oct 2011 05:00:00 +0100

(Source: Baylor College of Medicine News)

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Recurrent PIK3CA mutations in rosette-forming glioneuronal tumor

Acta Neuropathologica — Thu, 13 Oct 2011 15:50:18 +0100

Content Type Journal ArticleCategory CorrespondencePages 1-3DOI 10.1007/s00401-011-0886-zAuthors Benjamin Ellezam, Department of Pathology, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USABrett J. Theeler, Department of Neuro-Oncology, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USARajyalakshmi Luthra, Department of Hematopathology, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USAAdekunle M. Adesina, Department of Pathology, Texas Children’s Hospital, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USAKenneth D. Aldape, Department of Pathology, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USAMark R. Gilbert, Department of Neuro-Oncology, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA Journal Acta Neuropatho...

Study finds no downward trend in nutritional value of broccoli

Baylor College of Medicine News — Thu, 13 Oct 2011 05:00:00 +0100

(Source: Baylor College of Medicine News)

Understanding beginnings of embryonic stem cells helps predict future

Baylor College of Medicine News — Thu, 13 Oct 2011 05:00:00 +0100

(Source: Baylor College of Medicine News)

Mitochondrial neurogastrointestinal encephalomyopathy (MNGIE)-like phenotype: an expanded clinical spectrum of POLG1 mutations

Journal of Neurology — Wed, 12 Oct 2011 16:33:27 +0100

Abstract The aim of the study was to determine the prevalence of MNGIE-like phenotype in patients with recessive POLG1 mutations. Mutations in the POLG1 gene, which encodes for the catalytic subunit of the mitochondrial DNA polymerase gamma essential for mitochondrial DNA replication, cause a wide spectrum of mitochondrial disorders. Common phenotypes associated with POLG1 mutations include Alpers syndrome, ataxia-neuropathy syndrome, and progressive external ophthalmoplegia (PEO). Mitochondrial neurogastrointestinal encephalomyopathy (MNGIE) is an autosomal recessive disorder characterized by severe gastrointestinal dysmotility, cachexia, PEO and/or ptosis, peripheral neuropathy, and leukoencephalopathy. MNGIE is caused by TYMP mutations. Rare cases of MNGIE-like phenotype h...

Understanding the constraints of evolution provides roadmap to mammalian biology

Baylor College of Medicine News — Wed, 12 Oct 2011 05:00:00 +0100

(Source: Baylor College of Medicine News)

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Educating Health Professionals in Obstetrics and Gynecology Regarding Rapid Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) Testing in Labor and Delivery: A Local Initiative

Maternal and Child Health Journal — Fri, 07 Oct 2011 15:58:06 +0100

Abstract Although, the Centers for Disease Control and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists have advised rapid HIV testing for laboring women of unknown human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) status since 2004 to ensure that results are known prior to delivery, physicians and hospital staff have been slow to follow the recommendation. A multi-component intervention was implemented to educate physicians and hospital staff. There was low baseline knowledge (<50% correct) in the areas of HIV prevalence, use of rapid testing in the prevention of perinatal HIV transmission, and treatment. On 9 out of 14 items, participants demonstrated a >35% increase in correct responses from pre-test to 3 month post-test. Baseline knowledge among obstetric health car...

Length of flanking repeat region, timing affect process that deletes or duplicates genetic material

Baylor College of Medicine News — Thu, 06 Oct 2011 05:00:00 +0100

(Source: Baylor College of Medicine News)

Estrogen receptor in two kinds of neurons fights obesity, infertility

Baylor College of Medicine News — Thu, 06 Oct 2011 05:00:00 +0100

(Source: Baylor College of Medicine News)

Intervention or medication, who benefits more?

Baylor College of Medicine News — Thu, 06 Oct 2011 05:00:00 +0100

(Source: Baylor College of Medicine News)

Length of flanking repeat region and timing affect genetic material

EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health — Thu, 06 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100

(Baylor College of Medicine) In a report published online in the American Journal of Human Genetics, Dr. James R. Lupski, vice chair of molecular and human genetics at BCM, graduate student Pengfei Liu and colleagues studied the deletions of genetic material in 131 patients with a genomic disorder called Smith-Magenis syndrome and the duplication of genetic material in 79 patients with Potocki-Lupski syndrome. (Source: EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health)

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BCM scientists receive early career awards for brain cancer research

Baylor College of Medicine News — Wed, 05 Oct 2011 05:00:00 +0100

(Source: Baylor College of Medicine News)

Genomic Architecture Presages Genomic Instability

Health News from Medical News Today — Tue, 04 Oct 2011 07:00:00 +0100

2012 Pink Ribbon House Fundraiser kicks off

Baylor College of Medicine News — Tue, 04 Oct 2011 05:00:00 +0100

The Pink Ribbon House®, one of the largest and most popular fundraisers benefitting research and patient care at the Lester and Sue Smith Breast at Baylor College of Medicine, has kicked off its sixth biennial campaign. The unique project features a designer showcase home. Funds are raised through home tours, corporate and individual sponsorships and individual contributions. "The Pink Ribbon House project has been an amazing vehicle for the Smith Breast Center in terms of increasing community awareness of what in 2003 was a new breast cancer clinical care and research program in Houston,” said Dr. Kent Osborne, director of the Smith Breast Center. "It has also provided funding to support our missions of research and community outreach, especially the underserved."...

Smith Breast Center participates in study of new treatments for aggressive "triple-negative"

Baylor College of Medicine News — Tue, 04 Oct 2011 05:00:00 +0100

Finding new treatments for triple negative breast cancer, an aggressive form of breast cancer that is often resistant to standard treatments and preferentially affects African-American women, is critically important, said a researcher from the Lester and Sue Smith Breast Center at Baylor College of Medicine . Approximately 26 percent of African-America women with breast cancer are triple-negative, compared to 15 percent of Caucasian women. "Even though this is one of the least common types of breast cancer, it is among the most aggressive, has a poor prognosis, and there are no targeted treatments against it," said Dr. Michael Lewis, associate professor in the Smith Breast Center. The subtype is referred to as "triple negative" because it does not express estrogen or pr...

Hereditary Breast and Ovarian Cancer Conference set Oct. 29

Baylor College of Medicine News — Tue, 04 Oct 2011 05:00:00 +0100

Women with an identified BRCA gene mutation and their families can learn more about their cancer risks and prevention options at a conference Oct. 29 at Baylor College of Medicine . "We know that women who test positive for a mutation in the BRCA1 or BRCA2 genes are at a significantly higher risk of breast cancer and ovarian cancer," said Dr. Julie Nangia, assistant professor in the Lester and Sue Smith Breast Center , who will co-host the conference along with Sarah Zentack, a genetic counselor in the Smith Breast Center. "There is a critical need to educate these women, and their families, about their risks and best approach to prevention." BRCA carriers can take a variety of approaches to prevention, including prophylactic mastectomies (removal of both breasts), ooph...

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$1.35 million grant funds neuroscience education program

Baylor College of Medicine News — Tue, 04 Oct 2011 05:00:00 +0100

(Source: Baylor College of Medicine News)

Genomic architecture presages genomic instability

Baylor College of Medicine News — Sun, 02 Oct 2011 05:00:00 +0100

When cells divide normally, DNA gets copied perfectly and distributed among the daughter cells with an even hand. Occasionally though, DNA breaks during division and is rearranged, resulting in duplications or deletions of important parts of the blueprint. Now researchers at Baylor College of Medicine who study families with such genomic disorders have found a shared, yet unusual, architecture resulting from this jumble that is associated with very severe forms of disease. They also identified the genomic elements that produce such architecture, a finding that will help predict other unstable regions in the human genome. The unusual architecture left a footprint, and a search for similar footprints in other regions of the genome may identify regions that underwent the same alteration durin...

Pediatric high grade glioma of the spinal cord: results of the HIT-GBM database

Journal of Neuro-Oncology — Sat, 01 Oct 2011 05:45:56 +0100

Abstract Little is known about pediatric spinal cord high grade gliomas (SCHGG) beyond their dismal prognosis. Here, we analyzed the HIT-GBM® database for the influence of surgical resection on survival. Between 1991 and 2010 the HIT-GBM group collected data from European children diagnosed with high grade glioma. Patients with the following inclusion criteria were analyzed in this study: astrocytic histology, WHO grade III or IV, age at diagnosis <18 years, and tumor localized to the spinal cord. 28 patients (mean age 11.28 years, 14 male) with primary SCHGG were identified. The tumor sizes were measured by the span across adjacent vertebrae and varied greatly (range: 1–20, median: 4). Histology was classified as WHO grade III in 15 and grade IV in 13 tumo...