The symposium, hosted by the American Herbal Products Association, brings together experts to discuss the latest research and benefits of echinacea. Echinacea has been found to have antibacterial, antiviral, and wound-healing properties, with German research confirming its ability to strengthen the immune system.
Researchers at UNC Health Care found that men with high stress levels and weak social support developed AIDS faster. The study of 82 HIV-infected gay men showed that cumulative stressful events doubled the risk of progressing to AIDS.
A study by Dr. Ulrich Schweiger and colleagues found that severely depressed men have lower testosterone concentrations during the day and night, as well as higher cortisol levels. This disturbance of gonadal function may impair sexual function and increase the risk of heart disease and osteoporosis.
Researchers used new techniques to study HDL particles, verifying the lipid bilayer structure and confirming a key finding about protein orientation. The study resolves a long-standing controversy over the structure of HDL, shedding light on its role in cardiovascular health.
A recent study published in Psychosomatic Medicine found that 39% of women with naturally low cholesterol levels scored high on a depression scale, while 35% scored similarly high on an anxiety scale. The study also linked low-density lipoprotein cholesterol and triglyceride concentrations to depression and anxiety.
A 5.5-year study found that stressful events and low social support accelerate HIV progression to AIDS, with men who developed AIDS twice as likely to have experienced major depressions before onset.
A study by the University at Buffalo found that a very-low-fat diet can suppress the immune system of trained runners, making them more susceptible to infections. The researchers discovered that high-fat diets, on the other hand, enhanced certain components of the immune system and reduced inflammation.
Scientists at University of Wisconsin-Madison uncover new process to produce lovastatin, a natural substance that lowers cholesterol in humans. The discovery may lead to more potent and affordable drugs through genetic engineering.
The AAPS International Workshop on Individual Bioequivalence aims to review available criteria, discuss their pros and cons, and explore various points in drug development and approval. The workshop will focus on evidence for/against a Subject by Formulation interaction, statistical issues, and FDA strategy.
Researchers discover that iron minerals in sediment protect marine organisms from extreme arsenic levels. The study suggests that natural processes can be harnessed to develop new methods for treating arsenic-tainted waste.
Researchers at the University of Florida have found that fibromyalgia is caused by a neurological abnormality, where the body overreacts to repetitive stimulation. This discovery aims to improve diagnostic tests and treatments for the chronic illness, affecting an estimated 3.7 million Americans.
Researchers found progeria cells have low catalase and glutathione peroxidase activity, making it hard to remove toxic peroxides. Reintroducing these enzymes could halt or reverse the problem using adenovirus gene transfers.
Research finds that noncompliance with prescribed antihypertensive drugs leads to approximately half of the failures in controlling high blood pressure. A special electronic medication container, eDEM Monitor, identifies clinically unrecognized noncompliance.
Researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital have developed a new approach to bone marrow transplantation that induces mixed chimerism in four patients with treatment-resistant non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. Two patients achieved long-term remission without significant graft-versus-host disease, a dangerous complication of the procedure. The...
Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center have discovered a nuclear receptor, FXR, that controls bile acids and cholesterol production. The finding has important implications for developing drugs to control dietary cholesterol in humans.
Biofilm bacteria are a common cause of persistent infections, such as ear infections and cystic fibrosis pneumonia. Recent advances in understanding biofilms may help develop new therapeutic agents to control these infections.
Researchers will discuss cellular interactions in prostate cancer, new gene discoveries, and techniques for measuring patient outcomes. The symposium also features presentations on experimental agents, immunotherapies, and alternative therapies for treating prostate cancer.
The AGU Spring Meeting will feature new press conferences on Leonid Meteors, which created a temporary lunar atmosphere, and Yucca Mountain as a potential site for long-term nuclear waste storage. The sessions will also include discussions on Mars Global Surveyor findings and the impact of magnetic storms on Earth.
A study of over 50,000 transplant recipients found that kidney transplants from living donors are more cost-effective than dialysis treatments. The total cost of care within five years is roughly $47,000 less for living donor transplants compared to dialysis.
A Penn State-led study found lower concentrations of a stress hormone in pregnant teens are linked to greater numbers of depression and conduct disorder symptoms. The hormone, corticotropin releasing hormone (CRH), is associated with emotions and behavior during pregnancy.
A national survey found that nearly half of American women (45%) regularly cross their legs, despite being aware of the negative effects on circulation. The study also revealed that leg crossing is often a habit, comfort-driven behavior, and a matter of politeness.
Research found depressed mothers' flat-pitched speech hampers infant learning, leading to delays in acquiring language and cognitive milestones. Infants who heard low- or moderate-depression voices spent more time observing a checkerboard pattern.
A meta-analysis of 37 diet intervention studies found that reducing dietary calories, saturated fat, and cholesterol has a positive effect on serum lipids and cardiovascular risk. The study suggests that adopting healthier eating habits can be an effective way to lower the risk of cardiovascular disease.
A study published in Molecular Cell reveals that the mutated tumor suppressor gene ARF prevents cellular transformation by blocking p53 degradation, allowing it to stop tumor cell growth. Researchers found that mutations in ARF's Exon 2 are linked to cancer, impairing its ability to localize and block p53 export.
A longitudinal study found that impulsive children are more prone to injuries, with those who overestimate their physical abilities experiencing more medical attention. The research suggests targeting vulnerable temperaments in injury prevention programs.
Research by Hirokazu Yoshikawa found that welfare recipients who received high levels of educational, job training, and center-based child-care assistance had higher earnings and better math and verbal achievement scores. The long-term support service approach also benefited the children themselves.
Research finds that nurturing and emotionally responsive parents, consistent discipline, and positive expectations for children's future are key factors in helping kids thrive in poor urban environments. Parents of resilient children reported better mental health and more support from friends and family.
A new study published in Health Education & Behavior found that children benefit most from sun safety interventions due to high lifetime exposure during childhood. Parents' sun safety habits strongly influence their children's behaviors, while recreation programs' policies are not significantly associated with parents' practices.
A Penn State study suggests that eating low-energy-density meals, which contain fewer calories per ounce and are rich in fruits, vegetables, or grains, can help individuals manage their weight while still feeling full and satisfied. The study found that the energy density of food, rather than fat content, plays a key role in satiety.
The Hobby-Eberly Telescope has successfully observed a distant quasar candidate, confirming its status and providing insight into the universe's early evolution. The instrument will also enable detailed study of objects in and near the Milky Way with the addition of two new facility-class spectrographs.
Researchers at Purdue University have developed a technique that combines porous silicon with mass spectrometry to streamline biochemical analyses. The technique, called desorption ionization on silicon (DIOS), allows for the simultaneous testing of large numbers of compounds in a fraction of the time required by current methods.
A study of 12,330 men and women aged 45-64 found that those with high levels of white blood cells, albumin, or fibrinogen were at higher risk of developing diabetes. The research suggests that inflammation may play a central role in the development of Type 2 diabetes.
A recent study by University of Maryland researchers found that kidney transplants are more cost-effective than dialysis, even for the sickest patients. The break-even point for kidney transplants was 2.7 years compared to dialysis, saving $27,000 per year for each patient.
Biologists have discovered three new hotspots of high biological diversity in New Zealand, Southeast Australia, and Tasmania. The study found that the terrestrial flatworm, a humble but diverse species with over 822 varieties, can act as a model for understanding the distribution of lower invertebrates.
Polish parliamentarians have significant influence on legislative process due to their right to submit proposals. The Sejm's independence is crucial for its role in stabilizing relations with the presidency and government. Strengthening internal coherence and discipline is necessary for governing parties to maintain this independence.
A new nonsurgical technique using stent-graft placement has been shown to be effective in treating people with life-threatening aortic dissection. The catheter-delivered procedure involves inserting a wire mesh tube to force open and maintain the blocked aorta, reducing complications and mortality rates.
A new study predicts that regular anal Pap smear screenings can lead to early detection of pre-cancerous lesions and treatment of anal squamous cell cancer among high-risk men. The screening is estimated to be cost-effective, saving an average of $16,000 per year of life gained.
Researchers found that Thalomid significantly improved symptoms for two-thirds of patients with chronic, steroid-dependent or unresponsive Crohn's disease. Common side effects included drowsiness and peripheral neuropathy. The study suggests a Phase III trial using Thalomid to treat Crohn's disease should be conducted.
Researchers have discovered naturally occurring enzymes that can detoxify porphyrins, building blocks of haemoglobin, in a potential breakthrough for treating variegate porphyria. This rare disorder was passed down through the royal family, including Queen Elizabeth II's first cousin Prince William of Gloucester.
A study found that patients taking selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) had a reduction in sticky platelets, which can contribute to heart problems. The researchers suggest that improved mood is the key factor behind this effect.
A new procedure called High PRA Rescue cleanses blood of harmful rejection antibodies, enabling six patients to receive successful kidney transplants from living donors. The innovative technique, combined with three new anti-rejection medications, has shown promising results in a two-week period.
Researchers developed smart concrete that changes electrical resistance in response to strain or stress, allowing for real-time vehicle weighing. The technology has the potential to reduce costs and increase efficiency in highway monitoring.
Three Johns Hopkins University engineering students build an air-powered hammering device that can deliver up to 45,000 pounds of force to test computer models predicting armored vehicle equipment durability. The device is part of a design project course and aims to improve the accuracy of simulations for real-world battlefield scenarios.
A study found that middle-aged men with higher testosterone levels are less likely to experience high blood pressure, heart attacks, and obesity. However, they are more likely to engage in unhealthy behaviors such as smoking and excessive drinking.
A new report outlining alternative funding sources for medical research will be released at a congressional briefing on May 25. The report suggests funding options and models that can be used in conjunction with the current appropriations process to secure sustained, long-term funding for medical research.
Researchers John Abrahamson and Peter Coleman successfully created stable fireballs in a mini tornado using liquefied petroleum gas, challenging existing theories about ball lightning. The experiment may have industrial applications and shed new light on unexplained UFO sightings.
Research by Cornell University reveals that genetically engineered corn, designed to protect against pests, can kill monarch butterfly larvae when they come into contact with its pollen. This has significant implications for the long-term survival of the monarch species, which is already facing habitat disruption and other threats.
The university will fund studies to enhance firefighters' exercise and nutrition, prevent eating disorders and drug use among adolescent female athletes, and test random, unannounced drug testing for high school athletes. Principal investigators Linn Goldberg and Diane Elliot will lead the research.
Dopamine receptor biology discovery may open new treatment avenues for conditions like schizophrenia and ADHD. The study shows a connection between dopamine, folate, and nerve cell membrane fluidity critical for normal cognition.
Alan Walker, a distinguished professor at Penn State, has been recognized by the British Royal Society for his groundbreaking work on human origins. He is one of forty-two new Fellows elected this year and was honored for his distinguished contributions to the world's knowledge of human origins.
Leaders from national parks, forests, and local communities visited the Idaho National Laboratory to share resources and expertise. The visit aimed to coordinate decisions and manage data between agencies, with a focus on regional transportation, infrastructure, and natural resource management.
A pilot study at Duke University Medical Center found that bupropion SR combined with a 1,600-calorie diet resulted in significant weight loss among non-depressed women. The study showed a 6.21% weight loss in the treatment group compared to 1.56% in the placebo group.
A combination of nefazodone and psychotherapy is more effective than either medication or therapy alone in treating chronic depression, with an 85% response rate. The study also found significant improvement in insomnia and early symptom reduction.
Recent feminism has brought deeper changes to specific sciences like medicine, anthropology, archaeology, biology, physics, and mathematics. Medicine has seen increased funding for women's health, such as osteoporosis and heart disease research.
A new color-coded chromosome mapping system devised by Julie R. Korenberg enables quick localization of known matching genes in humans using mouse DNA, greatly speeding up research into Down Syndrome and other human illnesses. The system has profound implications for the study of human diseases and the development of effective treatments.
Children between 2-18 years old had the best success with a five-year survival rate of 68%, followed by adults with Crohn's disease. Intestinal transplantation improves quality of life, reducing reliance on intravenous nutrition and hospitalizations.
The study found that the costs of treating patients in clinical trials were modestly higher than for those who opted for standard treatment, with an average total cost of $46,424. The authors recommend payment for patients' treatment in National Cancer Institute-approved clinical trials to improve access and patient outcomes.
After 20 years, NASA's Far Ultraviolet Spectroscopic Explorer (FUSE) satellite is nearing its scheduled June 23 launch. The project faced numerous setbacks, including the Challenger rocket explosion and budget cuts, but ultimately, Johns Hopkins University took over management and implemented cost-saving measures.
Researchers use ultraviolet lamps to create thin polymer films with precise patterns, reducing convection issues that affect film uniformity. These films have the potential to replace electronic circuits in all-optical computer systems, increasing efficiency and compactness.
A USCF study reveals that an herbal therapy, PC-SPES, significantly reduces prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels by more than 50% in men with advanced prostate cancer. The compound, containing eight Chinese herbs including saw palmetto, showed promising results in both hormone-naïve and hormone-resistant patients.