A UNC-CH study reveals that premature infants are resuscitated primarily based on parents' preferences and medical uncertainty, rather than solely on the prognosis of survival. The study found that resuscitation generally postpones death by only a few days but does not contribute substantially to over-treatment.
Scientists have discovered two new variants of the APC gene associated with an increased risk of bowel cancer. These variants, found in a study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, may be more common than previously thought and increase susceptibility to pre-cancerous polyps.
Researchers at the Weizmann Institute created a 2D system to study fire propagation, revealing that flame dynamics follow simple laws governing penetration of liquids into porous materials. This breakthrough provides a low-cost alternative to studying fire in space and could aid in detecting slow-moving flames in aircraft.
Researchers at Rice University have developed metal nanoshells, particles that can absorb or scatter light at virtually any wavelength, enabling new applications in energy-efficient paints and windows, solar collection materials, and chemical sensors. The team has also shown promise in extending their range to the far infrared.
A research team led by Prof. Yitzhak Maron has developed a method to definitively determine how electricity flows through hot and dense plasmas. By measuring the electric current and its distribution in the plasma, scientists can gain crucial information on how to condense plasma more effectively for controlled fusion.
Researchers at Berkeley's Space Sciences Laboratory have concluded that atmospheric holes in satellite imagery are caused by instrument noise, not small comets. The study analyzes raw data from the Polar spacecraft and shows that dark pixel clusters are consistent with instrumental noise.
A Northwestern University study found that women with sexually transmitted diseases or elevated progesterone levels are more susceptible to HIV infection after unprotected sex with an HIV-positive partner. The research suggests that blocking chemokine receptors in genital tissues could be a key strategy for preventing male-to-female HI...
A researcher has detected an enormous black hole at the center of the Milky Way galaxy, with a mass 2.6 million times that of our Sun. The discovery was made using advanced imaging techniques and provides a definitive view of a part of the galaxy previously unseen.
Researchers have developed a micron-resolution particle image velocimetry system to measure velocity fields in bioanalysis systems where low-light level imaging is critical. The technique has been refined to provide velocity-field measurements with spatial resolutions approaching 1 micron.
Miniature shock waves can be used to probe complex systems and investigate phenomena at the molecular level. The technique opens up new possibilities for research in chemistry, biology, and medicine.
Researchers found that Loblolly pine trees in North Carolina experienced a 12% growth rate increase when exposed to future carbon dioxide levels. However, the growth rate is likely unsustainable as trees adapt to higher CO2 concentrations and soil nutrient limitations.
The robotic telescope successfully mapped the southern sky in hydrogen-alpha light for a two-year project to identify low-surface-brightness phenomena within our own galaxy. The data will help decontaminate measurements of the cosmic microwave background from galactic emissions.
A cross-sectional analysis of 215 women aged 18-31 found correlations between weight, height, lean mass, and dietary factors like calcium, protein, and phosphorus with various bone mineral measures. Postmenarcheal age was positively correlated with total-body BMD and BMC, while radius BMD was linked to protein and phosphorus intakes.
A new court-based program called Children First helps divorcing parents be more sensitive towards their children, reducing conflict intensity. The program's effectiveness was found to have positive effects on parents reporting high levels of conflict, leading to improved interactions with their kids.
Researchers find that a single chemical cue can either attract or repel neurons depending on the growth cone's internal status, providing potential clues for regenerating nerves and understanding disorders of neuronal migration
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Oncology Center identify connection between APC and c-MYC genes, which conspire to initiate almost all colon cancers. The study suggests potential new drug strategies to prevent colon cancer by blocking the signal that activates c-MYC.
Researchers have identified a cluster of three genes, kaiABC, that are integral components of the feedback loop driving circadian rhythms in cyanobacteria. The levels of KaiC gene expression increase during daytime and decrease at night, but an overabundance can shift the timing of the clock.
A new hypothesis proposes that a 71,000-year-old volcanic winter and subsequent 1,000-year ice age led to widespread famine and death, causing a significant bottleneck in human populations. This event is believed to have resulted in rapid genetic divergence among modern humans.
Healthy men who used olive oil instead of saturated fats for eight weeks experienced increased triglyceride but lower LDL-cholesterol and clotting factor VII. The long-term significance of this effect on coronary mortality remains unclear.
Researchers have found the first connection between the loss of a tumor suppressor gene and activation of an oncogene, providing new insights into the genesis of most cases of colon cancer. The study reveals that mutated APC genes switch on MYC, a gene associated with various cancers in animals and humans.
Genetics professor John Avise's book, The Genetic Gods, examines how genetic discoveries are shaping our understanding of human life, including spirituality. The book argues that genes have a significant influence on human affairs, challenging traditional views of the supernatural.
Researchers at the University of Illinois found that zinc deficiency can exacerbate anorexia by increasing neuropeptide Y production and decreasing leptin levels. Zinc supplements have shown to increase recovery rates, supporting its potential as a treatment for anorexia.
Researchers found that calcium influx into mitochondria triggers neuron death, while changes in cytoplasmic calcium have a more subtle effect on cell health. The study suggests designing drugs to target mitochondria could prevent or intervene in glutamate-induced neuronal damage.
A long-term study of 400 children found that early social struggles can lead to declining school success. Engaging with others is crucial for learning, and parents can play a role in helping their kids develop these skills.
A recent international study found that mothers with high lifetime lead exposure may transfer toxic levels of lead to their breastfed infants. The researchers discovered a strong correlation between the amount of lead in the mothers' milk and the corresponding blood lead levels of the infants.
A study found that depressed women who experienced physical abuse were less likely to receive mental health care compared to those who had not been abused. Nearly all abused women sought recent medical help, highlighting the need for effective screening for domestic violence.
The study reveals that the cell nucleus controls precise timing and location of genetic activation, leading to a better understanding of gene regulation. The researchers developed a dynamic mosaic model to visualize the distribution of replication and transcription sites in the nucleus.
Researchers found a strong association between the cystic fibrosis gene and chronic pancreatitis, revealing genetics plays a significant role in its development. The study's findings have significant implications for treating patients with this condition, including those who are not heavy drinkers.
A single gene is responsible for the social behavior of roundworms, which may hold clues to understanding human social behaviors. The gene variation affects how nematodes respond to environmental stimuli and recognize pheromones.
A University of Wisconsin-Madison research team has developed a gene therapy vaccine that helps the animal's immune system recognize and attack cancer cells. The vaccine was tested on 16 dogs with advanced stages of melanoma and showed promise, with some animals living longer and tumor shrinkage in about 20 percent of cases.
A new study by Whitehead researchers found that reduced DNA methylation may be responsible for decreased genomic stability and increased mutation rates in cancer cells. This could lead to a better understanding of the molecular origins of cancer.
A study by OHSU found that patients who completed the bright pink POLST form had high levels of comfort care and low rates of aggressive life-extending treatment. The form, which enables patients to state wishes on specific treatments, was designed to record patients' wishes in the present, not just future healthcare.
Researchers propose instrument to measure high-energy gamma rays from blazars, pulsars, and bursts, offering improved tracking capabilities and higher energy detection limits. The scintillating fiber detector system will act as both a tracker and calorimeter, providing a wide-angle view of the sky with unprecedented precision.
The UCSF Center for AIDS Research has been awarded a major grant from the National Institutes of Health to support ongoing work in basic, clinical, and behavioral science areas of HIV/AIDS. The grant will focus on developing new treatment approaches, understanding HIV transmission, and improving therapy effectiveness.
Researchers have discovered a new method to deliver drugs directly to the brain using nose drops, potentially treating Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and multiple sclerosis. The treatment uses nerve growth factor and has shown promising results in animal studies.
Researcher Joy Bergelson finds that genetically engineered plants can outcross with wild relatives at a higher rate than previously thought, potentially leading to the creation of super-weeds. This could lead to increased pesticide use and crop competition for water and nutrients.
Golfers can expect to hit longer shots and experience a softer yet solid feel with the new Liquidmetal alloy, absorbing less energy than conventional materials. This high-performance material is also attractive for replacing traditional metals in sporting goods and aerospace products.
A new process called Continuous Rotary Extrusion (CRE) can produce high-quality copper from scrap electrical cable at a lower cost and with minimal environmental impact. The recycling centers can be based in compact light industry plants, reducing staff requirements and operating costs.
Physicists at Stanford University developed a new optical detector capable of measuring individual photons' energy, arrival time, and location throughout the spectrum. This breakthrough has potential applications in dark matter detection and improved astronomical observations.
A study found that women with longstanding hypertension are more likely to develop preeclampsia if they have a history of high blood pressure and protein in the urine early in pregnancy. Women who developed preeclampsia were also more likely to experience complications such as premature birth and low birth weight.
A team of researchers has developed software called Crowds that allows internet users to become anonymous members of a pool of surfers, masking their IP addresses and making it difficult for websites to track their activities. The software routes requests through the crowd, increasing anonymity and reducing profiling attempts.
The Whitaker Foundation has awarded over $7.5 million to biomedical researchers at 29 universities to tackle medical problems and improve human health. The grants support innovative research in areas like regenerative medicine, biomechanics, and tissue engineering.
Dahl's award-winning ion optics simulation program, SIMION, has been instrumental in designing instruments for the Cassini mission to Saturn. On Earth, SIMION is used to analyze environmental contaminants, decode DNA, and uncover illegal drugs in urinalysis samples.
Researchers successfully engineered a hybrid enzyme with improved substrate specificity, demonstrating the potential of recombining subdomains to generate novel functions. The study presents a method for generating hybrid genes by combining subdomain segments from diverse proteins.
A new report recommends guidelines for governments to evaluate proposals for public investment in freight facility projects, focusing on economic viability and benefits such as reduced pollution and job creation. The report also examines government policies beyond infrastructure investment that affect freight efficiency.
A new computing technique uses chaotic elements to 'evolve' answers, offering an alternative to traditional digital computers. The system has demonstrated handling various operations, including addition, multiplication, and Boolean logic.
A new volume of research explores the physical processes and interactions of Antarctic sea ice, shedding light on its differences from Arctic sea ice. The study highlights the importance of interdisciplinary approaches to understanding this complex environment, which is sensitive to climate change.
Researchers identified two distinct forms of prostate cancer, with one being more aggressive. The study also found that p27 plays a role in Benign Prostate Hyperplasia (BPH), which is genetically different from prostate cancer and not a precursor to its development.
The University of Kentucky has been awarded a $961,582 grant to establish interactive learning modules on the internet for writing grant proposals. The program will target historically underrepresented institutions and provide training and mentorship to help them develop their research capabilities.
Researchers found that ultraviolet light triggers a harmful chemical reaction in the skin, leading to premature aging and cancer. The study reveals that a natural component of human skin, previously thought to be a 'nature's sunscreen,' actually contributes to skin damage.
The Society of Actuaries symposium explored managed care effectiveness using the Health Plan Employer Data and Information Set (HEDIS) tool, highlighting access as a primary concern for consumers. The discussion also touched on issues with data quality and performance measurement in healthcare.
Researchers found a striking increase in falciparum malaria in northern Honduras, with reported cases rising from 52,110 in 1994 to 75,565 in 1996. The more severe form of the disease accounted for 21% of infected patients, highlighting a significant public health concern.
A comprehensive study of 195 short children found a strong link between shortness and behavioral adjustment problems. Growth hormone treatments improved behavior scores and conduct in many cases, with significant improvements in anxiety, depression, and attention deficit disorders.
Researchers found that inexpensive signs can increase stair use by 4.8-7.2% among different age groups and racial demographics, with significant benefits for Caucasians but little impact on African Americans.
A new study found that a larger angle between an artery and its branching points increases the susceptibility to plaque buildup, leading to cardiovascular disease. Researchers discovered that fluid mechanics plays a crucial role in vessel wall thickening, particularly at lower shear stress areas.
Researchers found that fear campaigns can be effective in motivating action, but only if individuals feel threatened and have clear information about the effectiveness of recommended actions. The study tested the impact of a fear campaign on reducing the risk of genital warts caused by human papilloma virus (HPV) among college women.
Researchers have assembled 20 articles to study interactions at the Antarctic Continental Margin, presenting new techniques and expanding year-round measurements. The volume includes a bathymetric chart of the southern Weddell Sea, providing insights into longer-term cycles.
A 15-year study in over 100 families and 1,000 subjects provides the first reliable evidence of genetic susceptibility to schizophrenia. The study identified a stretch of DNA on chromosome 13 associated with schizophrenia susceptibility.
The new volume of the American Geophysical Union's Antarctic Research Series delves into the complex ecosystems found in Antarctic sea ice. Researchers explore various habitats, including algal biomass, nitrogen metabolism, and numerical ecosystem modeling studies, providing insights into the biodiversity of this unique environment.
Researchers at Ohio State University found that wearing a knee brace after ACL reconstructive surgery may not be necessary for optimal recovery. Patients who wore a brace showed no significant improvement in knee stability compared to those who used an elastic knee bandage, suggesting that braces may be unnecessary.