A new device to identify breast cancer may be able to detect tumors earlier than current techniques. The system may therefore allow earlier diagnosis of the disease, researchers report, potentially saving lives. A simple and cost effective imaging device for breast tumor detection based on a flexible and wearable antenna system has been developed by… [Continue Reading]
Sleep Deprivation Has Consequences For the Immune System
June 29, 2012 By Leave a Comment
There is growing evidence that proper sleep habits are necessary for the normal function of the immune system. A new study adds to these findings, showing that sleep deprivation causes a stress-like response of white blood cell numbers. Severe sleep loss jolts the immune system into action, reflecting the same type of immediate response shown… [Continue Reading]
Flu Virus Gene Discovered That Regulates Body’s Response to Infection
June 28, 2012 By Leave a Comment
Understanding how the influenza virus interacts with our bodies is essential to develop effective treatments and vaccines. Researchers have now discovered how a viral gene regulates how our bodies react after flu infection. Scientists have discovered a new gene in the influenza virus that helps the virus control the body’s response to infection. Although this… [Continue Reading]
DHA, a Form of Omega-3, Boosts Memory Cell Function
June 28, 2012 By Leave a Comment
Fish forms a healthy part of the diet, and researchers have determined how consuming fish regularly can help boost memory. A type of omega-3 fatty acid found in fish, called DHA, improves the function of part of the brain that is involved in learning and memory. We’ve all heard that eating fish is good for… [Continue Reading]
Early Intensive Treatment of Diabetes Better for Patients’ Normal Insulin Production
June 27, 2012 By Leave a Comment
The typical treatment for new type 2 diabetes patient is the recommendation to improve diet and exercise before turning to prescription medication. According to a new study, however, this approach is not as effective as early and intensive drug treatment, which has a more beneficial effect on the patient’s ability to produce their own insulin…. [Continue Reading]
Vaccine Allows Body to Make Anti-Nicotine Antibodies
June 27, 2012 By Leave a Comment
In a new approach to treating addiction to nicotine, researchers have developed a vaccine that allows the immune system to recognize the drug. A new study has shown that when tested in mice, antibodies that recognize nicotine are produced, which prevent the drug from affecting the brain or other parts of the body. Researchers at… [Continue Reading]
Two Cups of Coffee Daily Linked to Lower Rate of Heart Failure
June 26, 2012 By Leave a Comment
While drinking too much coffee is linked to a number of health issues, moderate consumption may help reduce the risk of heart failure. Experts suspect that this may be due to the protective effect of coffee in reducing diabetes. While current American Heart Association heart failure prevention guidelines warn against habitual coffee consumption, some studies… [Continue Reading]
Kids With Allergies At Risk of Untreated Severe Reactions
June 25, 2012 By Leave a Comment
Children with known food allergies are still fed their allergens, and are undertreated after severe reactions, a worrying study has found. The vast majority of kids allergic to milk and eggs suffered a major reaction over the 3-year study, and most were not properly treated. Young children with allergies to milk and egg experience an… [Continue Reading]
Vitamin D Deficiency Linked to Diabetes and Heart Disease
June 25, 2012 By Leave a Comment
Those with insufficient intake of vitamin D may be at a higher risk of serious health conditions, including diabetes and cardiovascular disease, a new study suggests. Between those with high and low levels of the vitamin in their blood, there is a major difference in risk of developing the diseases, of up to 50%. A… [Continue Reading]
Exercise Helps Reduce Plaque Formation in Alzheimer’s Disease
June 23, 2012 By Leave a Comment
Physical activity may be an important strategy for reducing plaques in the brain, according to new research using an animal model of Alzheimer’s disease. Researchers have shown that regular exercise controls the formation of protein plaques in the brain, and can reduce the loss of cognitive function. In a recent Journal of Biological Chemistry “Paper… [Continue Reading]