NIH Research Matters
May 2011 Archive
May 23, 2011
Breast Cancer Risk Calculator Updated for Asian-Americans
Researchers have developed a more accurate method for estimating breast cancer risk for Asian and Pacific Islander American (APA) women.
Coffee May Ward off Lethal Prostate Cancer
A growing body of research is showing that coffee drinking poses little to no health risk for most people. In a new large-scale study, researchers have found that coffee may lower the risk of lethal prostate cancer.
Common Sickle Cell Treatment Safe for Babies
A drug commonly used to treat high blood pressure shows promise in mouse studies for protecting against muscle loss and rebuilding injured muscle. The finding might have implications for slowing the muscle loss that occurs with age and disuse.
May 16, 2011
Community Involvement Raises HIV Testing Rates
A new study suggests that community-based programs in rural areas can increase HIV testing in young people. Putting this type of strategy into practice might reduce risky behavior and help keep the spread of HIV in check.
How Secondhand Smoke Affects the Brain
Secondhand smoke has a direct, measurable impact on the brain similar to what’s seen in the person doing the smoking, according to a new study. The finding highlights the importance of limiting exposure to secondhand smoke in cars and other enclosed spaces.
Blood Pressure Drug May Help Muscle
A drug commonly used to treat high blood pressure shows promise in mouse studies for protecting against muscle loss and rebuilding injured muscle. The finding might have implications for slowing the muscle loss that occurs with age and disuse.
May 9, 2011
Comparing Treatments for Age-Related Eye Disease
The first year of a 2-year clinical trial has shown that a colon cancer drug used off-label to treat age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is as effective as another medication that’s FDA-approved to treat the disease.
Simple Checklist Can Catch Early Signs of Autism
A 5-minute questionnaire completed by parents during well-baby checkups can spot subtle signs of autism and developmental delays in 1-year-olds, according to a new study. Early detection and treatment of these disorders may lead to better outcomes for children.
Survival Tactics of a Common Gut Microbe
In a recent mouse study, scientists discovered how a common gut bacterium sends a “do not attack” signal to the immune system. The finding helps explain how our bodies distinguish between harmful microbes and those essential for health.
May 2, 2011
Sleep-Deprived Neurons Caught Nodding Off
Scientists have developed a way to spread genetic modifications to large numbers of mosquitoes. The new “gene drive” technique may represent a major step forward in the fight against malaria.
Motivation May Influence IQ Scores
Intelligence test scores, a new study suggests, may reflect more than intelligence. Scores rise when incentives are offered. When the stakes appear to be low, student motivation, which varies widely, correlates with test scores and certain successes later in life.
Selfish Genes Could Block Malaria Transmission
Scientists have developed a way to spread genetic modifications to large numbers of mosquitoes. The new “gene drive” technique may represent a major step forward in the fight against malaria.
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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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