A study of 290 pre- and 400 post-menopausal women found that sleep apnea is more prevalent and severe in the older group. The researchers suggest that lower levels of estrogen and progesterone during menopause may contribute to this disparity.
The Cangaroo II telescope detects gamma rays emitted by black holes and their surrounding electric and magnetic fields. Researchers aim to study the enormous effect of black holes on galaxy energy and evolution.
Researchers are working together on the Pierre Auger Project to find the source of high-energy cosmic rays. The project aims to build two huge observatories in the southern and northern hemisphere to detect and measure extensive air showers produced by these particles.
Researchers at Michigan State University have developed a new thermoelectric material that can cool computer chips more efficiently than existing materials. This innovation has the potential to increase computer speed and extend processor lifetimes, making it an attractive solution for the Navy's environmentally friendly cooling needs.
Researchers found a significant association between the L/S and S/S alleles of the serotonin transporter gene promoter region and suicidal tendencies in individuals with unknown psychiatric diagnosis. The study suggests that genetic factors, such as the 5-HTTLPR polymorphism, may contribute to autoaggressive behavior and violent suicide.
Research found that asthma negatively affects the sex lives of nearly two-thirds of patients, with psychological characteristics like depressive symptoms increasing the risk. The study suggests a potential link between asthma symptoms and sexual activity, highlighting the need for healthcare providers to address this issue.
A study analyzing data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey found that depression increases the risk of coronary heart disease in both men and women. In contrast, depressed men have a higher risk of death from CHD compared to their non-depressed counterparts.
Researchers at Wake Forest University School of Medicine report a significant increase in breast cancer risk among Eastern Band Cherokee women who use smokeless tobacco. The study found that the risk of breast cancer rose almost eightfold compared to non-users, highlighting potential health concerns with alternative nicotine products.
The NASA Marshall Space Flight Center has awarded a $136.9 million contract option to Computer Sciences Corporation (CSC) to provide information services from May 2000 to April 2001. This brings the total value of the contract to approximately $1.05 billion if all options are exercised.
A study by Emory University neurologists found that pallidotomy surgery significantly improves motor function in patients with Parkinson's disease, with persistent benefits extending to both sides of the body. The long-term effectiveness of this treatment has been confirmed through a 36-month follow-up.
Researchers found that people exposed to pesticides were approximately two times more likely to develop Parkinson's disease than those not exposed. In-home exposure to insecticides carried the highest risk of developing the disease.
Scientists have pinpointed the first gene in fruit fly Drosophila that is a target of an alternate control molecule, TRF1. This discovery opens up new avenues for understanding how gene expression is regulated, with potential implications for complex organisms like humans.
Researchers discovered two molecular switches, Jnk1 and Jnk2, that stimulate programmed cell death in response to UV radiation. Disrupting these genes protects cells from lethal doses of UV light, providing a promising new therapy for diseases such as strokes and heart attacks.
The Prosorba® Column is a device that removes harmful antibodies and immune complexes from the blood of patients with rheumatoid arthritis. Patient trials are expected to evaluate its effectiveness and safety in treating this chronic inflammatory condition affecting over 250,000 Canadians.
Researchers found that hamsters use day length information to anticipate winter, and this memory is retained for a season. The study suggests that the hamsters' brain processes seasonal changes in daylight to adjust reproductive cycles.
War has a devastating impact on children's mental health, leading to increased anxiety and depression. The study highlights the need for further research into the long-term effects of conflict on young minds.
A new UC Berkeley study reveals that diverse ecosystems are not immune to invasion by alien species. In a series of experiments, researchers found that high diversity actually increases the likelihood of invader establishment in larger ecosystems.
The METHRO II study found that H 376/95 was effective in preventing venous thrombo-embolism in patients undergoing total hip or total knee replacement surgery. The incidence of venous thrombo-embolism was significantly lower with the highest dosage of H 376/95 compared to dalteparin.
Researchers at UCSF have discovered a region in the telomerase enzyme that could be targeted to kill cancer cells and regenerate damaged cells. The discovery provides new insights into the mechanism of telomerase and its potential as a therapeutic target, as well as its role in regulating cell life span.
Astronomers have obtained radar images of a giant, dog bone-shaped asteroid called 216 Kleopatra, located in the main asteroid belt between Mars and Jupiter. The asteroid is about 217 kilometers long and 94 kilometers wide, with a shape that resembles a distorted dumbbell or dog bone.
A study by the American Academy of Neurology found that people with higher levels of non-occupational activities, such as playing a musical instrument or gardening, were less likely to develop Alzheimer's disease later in life. Researchers also discovered that it is never too late to get started with intellectual activities.
Researchers found a link between smoking, coffee consumption, and lower Parkinson's disease incidence. Higher dopamine levels in the brain may explain why people with these habits are less likely to develop Parkinson's.
Researchers used X-ray crystallography to determine the structure of COX-2 with arachidonic acid bound, gaining insights into its interaction with inhibitors. The study's findings may help guide future drug development for pain, inflammation, and cancer treatment.
Researchers created self-assembling ink that forms nanoscopic pores with external function and internal structure. The new ink can be easily printed from ordinary printers or written by lithographic pens.
The Apes: Challenges for the 21st Century conference addresses pressing issues affecting gorillas, orangutans, chimpanzees, bonobos, gibbons, and siamangs in both their natural habitats and zoos. The event brings together leading researchers to develop action plans on conservation, husbandry, and other key topics.
The Canadian Arthritis Network hosted a conference showcasing advancements in arthritis research and one-stop services for industry and government. The event featured key developments in therapeutics, diagnostics, and devices.
Research suggests that occupational lead exposure significantly increases the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease, particularly among those working in jobs with high levels of lead exposure. The study found a strong correlation between lead exposure and Alzheimer's, while other metals such as aluminum and solvents were not associate...
A team of scientists identified Io as the dominant source of the Jovian dust streams, which are high-rate bursts of submicron-sized particles. The particles' motion is strongly influenced by Jupiter's magnetic field, providing a unique signature that could only be present if Io were the dominant source.
A new NIH clinical advisory statement recommends using systolic blood pressure as the primary criterion for diagnosing and treating hypertension in middle-aged and older Americans. This shift aims to improve outcomes by targeting systolic pressure, which is associated with a higher risk of heart disease.
A new University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill study suggests that benzene is responsible for between 8% and 48% of all smoking-induced leukemia deaths. The chemical also causes between 12% and 58% of smoking-related deaths from acute myeloid leukemia.
A study found that medical students' biases against black female patients with chest pain can affect clinical decisions. White male students rated a black female patient as having less desirable health status but considered the white male patient's coronary condition more severe.
A study of 31 prostate cancer patients found that quality of life returns to normal within a year following brachytherapy, with urinary symptoms disappearing. The treatment was compared to other options like removal of the prostate or standard radiation therapy, which carry higher risks of decreased sexual function and bowel problems.
The University of California, San Diego has secured $47 million in private support to build a state-of-the-art cancer facility, with John and Rebecca Moores committing $20 million towards the project. The facility will bring together over 300 physicians, scientists, and staff to provide advanced patient care and conduct research.
A study of retired football players found that over half had experienced concussions, leading to increased risk of neurological complaints such as memory problems and numbness in extremities. The survey suggests that repeated blows to the head may cause lasting damage, prompting calls for regular testing to monitor player health.
Scientists have identified an unusual protein in anaerobic bacteria that senses oxygen and causes the bacteria to swim away from it. The protein could lead to the development of new antibiotics and provide insight into the evolution of life.
Scientists are using lasers to detect gravitational waves, which could help study dark matter and unlock the universe's secrets. The technique involves splitting a laser beam into two halves and comparing them for minute movements caused by space stretching.
The NHLBI has released a clinical advisory emphasizing the importance of systolic blood pressure in diagnosing and treating hypertension in middle-aged and older adults. The guideline recommends reducing systolic blood pressure to less than 140 mm Hg to reduce heart attack, heart failure, and stroke risk.
A study presented at the American Academy of Neurology's annual meeting found that sudden falls among the elderly can be related to an overlooked inner ear disorder. Successful treatments are often available once the correct diagnosis is made, with excellent surgical success rates in older individuals.
Chemists at Washington University in St. Louis have created knedel nanoparticles that mimic viruses and show potential for a new direction in gene therapy and other biomedical applications. The nanoparticles can escape detection by the immune system and are designed to behave like viruses, but without the risk of live virus effects.
A new study will investigate whether cognitive therapy can prevent relapses and recurrences of major depression as effectively as standard antidepressant medication. The study, funded by a $1.6 million NIMH grant, aims to help patients who suffer from recurring episodes of major depression.
Volunteers use virtual reality helmet and computer program to take actions like turning on TV or stereo by simply wishing it so, in breakthrough study that may someday enable patients with extreme paralysis to regain control of their surroundings
Researchers found that spices can shield bacteria from irradiation by protecting their DNA, with chili and black pepper offering the highest protection. The study suggests spice extracts could be used to protect healthy tissue in radiation therapy.
A new study found that asthma patients who experience more depressive symptoms have a lower quality of life. The study also showed that household income is negatively correlated with the level of depressive symptoms among patients.
Researchers at San Francisco State University discovered that blister beetle larvae mimic female bees as part of a three-step strategy to infiltrate and parasitize the bee's nest. The larvae use cooperative behavior to lure male bees into pseudocopulation, which then transport them to multiple females.
Patients with serious neurological conditions have a better chance of survival in Neurological/Neurosurgical Intensive Care Units (Neuro-ICU) compared to general ICUs. The study, presented at the American Academy of Neurology's Annual Meeting, found a 3.3-fold increase in hospital mortality among patients not in a Neuro-ICU.
Researchers at Washington University School of Medicine found that most household members were exposed to significantly less radiation than the government allows. The study's findings suggest that outpatient care for thyroid cancer patients is safe and poses minimal risk to those around them.
A nine-year study found that African-American women are 2.4 times more likely to develop diabetes due to lifestyle factors such as poor diet and lack of exercise. The study suggests that adopting a healthier lifestyle can help reduce the risk of developing diabetes in this population.
A 150-ton magnet has passed its initial operating test in Japan, producing a magnetic field of 13 Tesla and storing 640 megajoules of energy. The successful test demonstrates superconducting performance parameters and manufacturing methods for larger magnets planned for the International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor (ITER).
Research finds that people typically focus on lower facial expressions when interacting with others, but these can be misleading. Studying brain activity, researchers discovered that the upper face is more closely tied to a person's true emotional state.
Insomnia is a prevalent and serious condition that can have serious consequences. Effective treatments include identifying underlying causes, such as lifestyle habits, medical conditions, or medications, and adopting good sleep hygiene practices, like restricting bedtime, avoiding naps, and increasing exercise.
A study of 50 patients at the Veterans Affairs Medical Center in Atlanta found that rectally administered lidocaine gel significantly reduced pain during transrectal prostate biopsy. Patients who received lidocaine rated their pain as moderate to severe, while those without anesthetic experienced more discomfort.
A study published in AIDS found an association between osteopenia and protease inhibitors, a class of medications used to treat HIV/AIDS. Researchers discovered that patients taking these medications were more likely to develop low bone-mineral density, which can lead to fractures.
Researchers found that human papillomavirus (HPV) is associated with a subset of head and neck cancers, particularly those of the oropharynx, which are more likely to be caused by HPV. The study also showed improved survival rates among patients with HPV-positive tumors compared to those with HPV-negative tumors.
Chlordane, a persistent organic pollutant, accumulates in the human body and can cause digestive and nervous system disorders; washing food before eating can reduce exposure risk
Researchers at Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center have discovered a novel agent that can prevent transplant reactions and promote immunological tolerance. The treatment, using an anti-CD28 antibody, could lead to safer and more effective transplants, reducing the risk of graft-versus-host disease.
A new vaccine technology has demonstrated a dramatically enhanced immune response in mice against tumor growth and infection. The PIC vaccine bypasses key steps in the normal chain of events leading to immune response, directly targeting the cellular switch to muster a potent attack on foreign proteins.
According to a study published in JAMA, the overall percentage of alcohol-related motor vehicle deaths among children has declined from 21.6% in 1991 to 17.8% in 1996. The majority of these fatalities involved minors as passengers, with 79.5% of alcohol-related deaths resulting in child passenger fatalities
The American College of Physicians-American Society of Internal Medicine has released new guidelines for treating depression with antidepressant drugs. The guidelines highlight the effectiveness of both older and newer medications, as well as the potential risks associated with St. John's wort. Patients should consult their doctor to d...
New antidepressant guidelines suggest both older and newer medications are effective in treating depression. A population-based study found that overweight women are less likely to receive screening for cervical and breast cancer, despite higher mortality rates from these cancers.
A new study suggests that ginkgo extract may help protect the brain against stroke damage by reducing the extent of brain damage caused by free radicals. However, more work is needed to determine the proper dose and ensure its safety for humans at risk for stroke due to potential blood-thinning risks.