A study found that controlling for education, occupation, and other factors did not substantially alter the death rate associated with tobacco smoking. The researchers' analysis used data from a large prospective cohort study and estimated 396,741 deaths attributable to smoking annually in the US.
A new amplification technique using nonlinear oscillators can convert signals' trajectories into symbols for enhanced communication. This technique has the potential to improve communications for ships and other vehicles in remote locations.
The University of North Carolina has won a $2.5 million grant from the National Institutes of Health to support the development of new women's health research careers. The five-year grant will provide salary support and protected time for six junior faculty members in medicine, obstetrics, pathology, and psychiatry.
Researchers found that smokers who continued using the smoking cessation aid Zyban gained an average of 9.02 pounds less than those on placebo over 45 weeks. Women in this group lost significantly more weight, with an average loss of 13.86 pounds at 52 weeks.
Researchers have established Canadian normative data for the SF-36, a widely used health-related quality of life measure. The study found that Canadians scored higher than US and UK counterparts in several domains.
College students are at risk of developing nicotine dependence due to the high prevalence of tobacco use, which includes smoking cigarettes and cigars. The study found that tobacco users also engage in other substance abuse behaviors, such as marijuana use and binge drinking.
A Duke University study found that carbon dioxide-enriched air accelerates pine tree reproduction, resulting in earlier maturation and higher seed production. This trend may have significant implications for forest regeneration and the Southeast's economy, where loblollies are a crucial forest product.
The National Space Science and Technology Center will bring together scientists, engineers, and educators to work on common goals of technology advancements. The center will provide expertise and advanced research opportunities for NASA's mission and the growing medical research sector in Alabama.
Scientists use declassified spy satellite images and aerial photographs to document an increase in both shrub numbers and area in a former arid grassland. The study reveals that honey mesquite bushes now dominate large areas of the Southwest, with most shrubs holding their ground despite early droughts.
Physician and nurse education may not be sufficient to reduce antibiotic overuse; restriction and concurrent review shown to lead to sustained improvement.
A study analyzing perinatal records found that 33.1% of pregnant women in Nova Scotia smoked before their pregnancy, with 69.9% continuing to smoke throughout. An accompanying commentary provides guidance for physicians to increase smoking cessation rates among pregnant women.
Researchers report a case where cluster headache symptoms appeared without head pain, suggesting primary symptoms. The study follows a 22-year-old man who experienced nasal stuffiness and pupil contraction in his left eye daily for weeks, without pain.
Researchers from Johns Hopkins Children's Center study 14 women with Complete Androgen Insensitivity Syndrome (CAIS), finding they can experience good libido and normal sexual activity without sensitivity to androgens. The study challenges current ideas about hormone-to-behavior interactions in humans.
The stern flap design has reduced the power required to propel Spruance and Ticonderoga-class destroyers, resulting in annual fuel savings of 3,600-4,700 barrels. The Navy plans to retrofit these ships with stern flaps, as well as Arleigh Burke and Oliver Hazard Perry classes, leading to an estimated $380 million in life cycle savings.
The March of Dimes criticizes a newborn screening report that favors cost savings over infant health. The organization recommends universal access to core screening tests and prioritizing the early detection of rare diseases to improve child health outcomes.
The National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS) is hosting a public meeting to discuss possible studies related to Agent Orange exposure in Vietnam. The meeting aims to gather expert advice on the feasibility of conducting research in Vietnam and will coincide with an annual conference of dioxin researchers.
A new study found that medical personnel often fail to screen for domestic violence or provide appropriate referrals due to lack of confidence. The study recommends increased training for healthcare providers to increase their sense of efficacy in identifying and helping victims.
A University of Illinois professor highlights the need to address ethical concerns around sex with former clients, as well as gaps in graduate training and multiculturalism. She advocates for increased recognition of women's contributions to psychology and calls for reforms.
A new study found that higher levels of religious faith and spirituality are linked to improved mental health outcomes, including increased optimism and resilience, among people recovering from substance abuse. The research involved 236 participants and suggests that spirituality may contribute to a more optimistic life outlook.
Preterm infants are at risk for subtle developmental delays in social, behavioral and cognitive aspects that can be detected only until school age. A new study found 61% of pre-term children experienced low achievement or special needs compared to 23% of full-term children.
Research shows that short-term exposure to violent video games has minimal impact on empathy and aggression in children. However, preexisting personality traits and long-term gaming habits are likely to shape behavior. The study found a significant correlation between the child's favorite game and their total aggression score.
The W49 cluster is believed to contain approximately 100 type O stars, the hottest and most massive stars in our galaxy, all less than 1 million years old. This young star cluster is part of a larger birthing process that will eventually lead to globular clusters like those orbiting the Milky Way.
A newly identified protein called palladin is being explored for its influence on biological processes including cancer spread and wound healing. Palladin appears to play a critical role in determining cell shape via the actin cytoskeleton, with different forms of the protein involved in tight adhesion and movement.
A 12-week study found that 49% of patients treated with Zyban had not used tobacco for the previous four weeks, compared to 26% in the placebo group. The three-month figures showed a slight increase in quit rates, but further research is needed.
The UK Chandler Medical Center will conduct research on cervical, colorectal, and lung cancers in central Appalachia through prevention and early detection efforts. The center aims to reduce cancer incidence and mortality in Kentucky, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia.
Scientists find five stars with unexplained wobbles, suggesting the presence of a second companion planet. The discovery of three new gas giants adds to the list of 41 known planets outside our solar system, revealing patterns in planetary formation and dynamics.
A study analyzing a maintenance use trial found that people who quit smoking using placebo cited overwhelming cravings as the most frequent reason for returning to smoking. In contrast, those treated with Zyban (bupropion HCl) Sustained-Release 150 mg Tablets, cited presence of other smokers and stress as top reasons.
The PeaceBuilders program increases children's social competence and positive behavior patterns, leading to improved school climate. The program, which focuses on universal prevention beginning in kindergarten, has a lasting impact on students' aggressive behavior.
A new model analyzes how patient care plans, clinic profits, and drug manufacturer revenues are affected by outcome-oriented reimbursement policies. The model identifies key factors that influence the optimal treatment plan for individual patients, including initial condition, cost parameters, and insurance reimbursement guidelines.
Scientists at Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center developed a new diagnostic test for lupus using SR proteins as biomarkers. The color-coded test can identify 50-70% of undiagnosed lupus patients, promising to bridge the detection gap.
A study of over 2,000 adult U.S. smokers found that those who perceive light and ultra light cigarettes as safer and producing milder sensations are less likely to quit. Researchers advocate for targeted cessation messages addressing these misconceptions to promote quitting efforts.
New research found that demographic characteristics associated with improved mental health in cardiac disease patients are not good for their physical recovery. However, being female and having less social support were linked to better physical component scores.
The symposium explores the ecological implications of these stressors on Western mountain ecosystems. Research has helped quantify stress effects at regional scales, challenging land managers and policymakers.
The USGS is studying the effects of climate change, fire, and carbon dioxide on ecosystems in America's grasslands, deserts, and mountains. Researchers have found that high mortality rates among grassland birds in Colorado may be caused by small mammals invading nests.
Great presidents are often stubborn and disagreeable, but also more extraverted, open to experience, and assertive. The study found that nearly all presidents could be classified into one or more of eight presidential types, with some belonging to more than one group.
Deep breathing reduces adverse effects of methacholine on healthy lung function by 85%, potentially providing therapeutic options for asthmatics. The study suggests that deep breaths stretch lung tissue, releasing a protective chemical to keep airways open.
A study published in Preventive Medicine reveals that smoking is a leading cause of fires and death from fires globally, resulting in an estimated cost of nearly $7 billion in the US and $27.2 billion worldwide. Smoking causes 30% of fire deaths in the US and 10% globally.
Scientists have identified a class of ceramic materials that may safely contain radioactive waste for long-term storage, featuring disordered atomic structures. The fluorite-type complex oxides show promise as radiation-proof materials, warranting further development for containing nuclear wastes.
A new study found that positive interactions in relationships can lower stress hormone levels and influence longevity, particularly for wives. Women's cortisol levels decreased when they used fewer negative words to describe their marriages, indicating a more resilient relationship.
A Princeton scientist has discovered a naturally occurring protein that inhibits telomerase, which replicates and lengthens chromosome ends. The protein, Pif1p, acts directly on the chromosome ends to keep the lengthening process in check.
Researchers at TSRI have cloned the TOC1 gene, which regulates circadian rhythms in plants, providing insight into how plants adapt to daily environmental changes. The study's findings suggest that understanding plant internal clocks may also elucidate clock mechanisms in other species, including humans.
Researchers have mapped the first crystal structure of rhodopsin, a key protein in vision and embryonic development. This breakthrough could lead to significant advances in understanding GPCRs' role in various physiological processes, including taste, heart function, and drug addiction.
A new statistical method, called gene-shaving, identifies distinct sets of genes with similar expression patterns in tumors. This technique allows researchers to predict patient survival and treatment efficacy with greater accuracy.
Researchers developed a new virtual reality exposure therapy called Virtual Reality Exposure (VRE) to help individuals with a fear of flying. After eight sessions, participants showed significant reductions in anxiety and fear, with 93% having flown six months after treatment.
Researchers found that cortisol levels remained steady or rose in some people after discussing positive relationship history, despite expecting a decrease. Women who experienced this were more likely to be divorced from their husbands.
Researchers analyzed Precambrian sedimentary rocks to track the evolution of oxygen and ozone in the early atmosphere. The study found a 'profound change' in chemical reactions involving sulfur, indicating limited free oxygen and a global signature.
A specific gene, espin, is linked to deafness and abnormal behaviors in jerker mice. The mutated gene affects hair cell function, leading to false signals sent to the brain, which causes animals to move erratically.
The 2nd European Breast Cancer Conference will bring together over 3000 healthcare professionals, scientists, and patient advocates to share new developments in breast cancer research, treatment, and care. Distinguished international speakers will address key issues about the future of breast cancer research, treatment, and care.
Anthony Auerbach, a University at Buffalo biophysicist, has been awarded a $2.7 million Jacob Javits Neuroscience Investigator Award to continue his distinguished research on cell communication and synapses. His focus will be on understanding acetylcholine receptors, proteins that facilitate chemical messages across brain synapses.
Lawanna Harris, a NASA engineering technician, is working on a rocket-based combined cycle engine to make space travel more affordable. Her research goal is to reduce the cost of payload from $10,000 to hundreds of dollars per pound within 25 years.
A new mathematical technique developed by Purdue University engineer James Longuski has significantly reduced the time required to plan space missions. By using a graphical representation of possible paths and automating calculations with software program STOUR, engineers can quickly identify optimal routes for spacecraft travel.
A University of Alberta researcher found that childhood trauma has risen markedly faster for girls than boys, leading to increased rates of depression and potentially unhealthy adulthood. The study's findings suggest a link between childhood trauma and later difficulties, including psychiatric symptoms and social problem behavior.
The Pittsburgh Supercomputing Center will develop a six-teraflop terascale system, making it the most powerful available for public research. The system, part of NSF's PACI program, aims to facilitate progress in various fields, including climate change and weather forecasting.
Researchers found that a specific orbital alignment in 2014 provides an ideal escape route back to Earth in case of an emergency on the way to Mars. This trajectory is only possible within a few days of January 14, 2014, making it a critical launch window for future human missions.
The American Chemical Society is hosting a master class on the chemistry of dietary supplements, shedding light on new findings about quality control and herbal treatments. The class will feature experts discussing conjugated linoleic acid, Ginkgo biloba products, and collaborations with native healers.
Researchers found a genetic signature that divides patients with advanced melanoma into subgroups, offering clues to the disease's biology. This discovery could lead to more accurate prognosis and tailored therapies.
A University of Florida study found that women who learn hypnosis before delivering babies suffer fewer complications, need less medication, and have healthier babies. Hypnotized patients with hypertension also made lifestyle improvements to lower blood pressure.
A UI-led study found that flavopiridol, a cancer treatment, blocks HIV-1 replication in cell culture experiments at very low concentrations. This suggests the drug may have anti-HIV properties and could be a potential treatment for AIDS.
Several mesocarnivore species, including marten, fisher, and red fox, have staged remarkable recoveries in the Northeast. However, wolves and cougars, two large predators native to the region, continue to face challenges due to persecution and habitat loss.
The American Society of Plant Physiologists has self-published a comprehensive 1400-page textbook on biochemistry & molecular biology of plants, featuring original drawings and photographs. The book is designed for upper-level undergraduate and graduate courses, and was introduced to sell well over 600 copies at the ASPP Annual Meeting.