NIH Research Matters
February 6, 2012
Fending Off Cardiovascular Disease
A new study confirms that controlling traditional risk factors for cardiovascular disease, such as high blood pressure, substantially lowers the chance of major events like heart attack or stroke over the course of a lifetime.
Ancient Roots of Social Networks
Modern social networks, from small networks of friends and family to entire countries, are based on cooperation. A new study suggests that our early ancestors may have had social networks strikingly similar to those of modern societies.
Restricted Diet Affects Surgery Risk
Several days on a restricted diet may help the body better cope with the stress of surgery. New findings from a mouse study point the way toward potential strategies for reducing surgical risks in people.
january 30, 2012
How Often Should Women Have Bone Tests?
Older women should have regular bone density tests to screen for osteoporosis. But it’s been unclear how often to repeat the tests. A new study finds that some patients might safely wait 15 years between tests.
Manganese May Prevent Toxin Damage
New research suggests that manganese may block the deadly effects of Shiga toxin. The finding may lead to cheap, effective treatments for dangerous foodborne infections that affect millions worldwide.
Looking Inside Viruses
Since the discovery of the microscope, scientists have tried to visualize smaller and smaller details of cells and microbes. Now, researchers have developed a new way to see tiny structures within viruses.
january 23, 2012
Body Produces “Industrial” Lubricant for Metal Hip Implants
In the body, metal-on-metal hip implants develop a lubricating layer that's more like an industrial lubricant than joint fluid. The finding may aid design of longer-lasting implants.
Researchers Find Cause of Rare Immune Disease
Scientists identified a genetic mutation that causes cold temperatures to trigger allergic reactions—a condition called cold urticaria. The research points toward a potential cure and sheds light on immune system function.
New Insights Into Old Anti-Fungal Drug
For more than 50 years, doctors have used the drug Amphotericin B to treat systemic fungal infections. A new study reveals a novel mode of action for the drug. The finding may lead to improved anti-fungal medications.
january 9, 2012
Research Matters 2011 Recap
NIH-funded scientists made important discoveries toward cancer treatment, influenza, HIV, Alzheimer's disease, organ transplantation, fat metabolism, tinnitus, autism, malaria and more.
DECEMBER 19, 2011
Most Stillbirths Caused by Placental, Pregnancy Conditions
Half of all stillbirths result from pregnancy disorders and conditions that affect the placenta, a new study found. Risk factors known at the start of pregnancy accounted for only a small proportion of the overall risk of stillbirth.
Gene Therapy Helps Patients with Hemophilia
Scientists report that a single dose of an experimental gene therapy boosted production of a missing blood-clotting factor in people with hemophilia. The therapy could provide a long-term solution for preventing dangerous bleeding.
Rats Show Empathy, Too
A new study shows that empathy may drive rats to help each other. The finding gives insight into the biological roots of our urge to assist others in need.
DECEMBER 12, 2011
Less Medication Effective for Wheezing Preschoolers
Recurrent wheezing in children at risk for developing asthma can be controlled using far less medication by giving higher doses of an inhaled corticosteroid only as needed instead of lower doses every day, a study found.
Prenatal Steroids Reduce Brain Injury in Preemies
Preemies born as early as the 23rd week of pregnancy are more likely to survive and have less brain injury if their mothers receive prenatal steroids, according to a new study.
Antibodies Protect Against HIV in Mice
Researchers have devised a technique in mice that, with a single injection, protects the immune cells that HIV targets. With further development, the approach may one day prove effective at protecting people from HIV infection.
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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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