Researchers at Cornell University have found that releasing an early army of beneficial Trichogramma ostriniae wasps can halve European corn borer damage. The study suggests that growers only need to release around 30,000 wasps per acre and that subsequent releases may not be necessary.
A speech-language pathologist is presenting a successful program that helps male-to-female transgender clients acquire a more feminine-sounding voice. The one-year intensive therapy focuses on practical skills like speech rate, intonation, and non-verbal communication to improve the client's overall perception as a woman.
Researchers have discovered a method for producing silicon-based chemicals from sand, rice hull ash, and antifreeze, reducing the need for expensive high-temperature processing and toxic by-products. The new process enables the creation of novel compounds with potential pharmacological activity, such as wound healing and hair growth.
A study found no significant difference in reducing maternal weight gain and gestational diabetes among Cree women, suggesting cultural factors and intervention intensity as contributing factors. Culturally appropriate modifications to interventions are proposed to reduce the risk of diabetes in pregnancy among this population.
The National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS) has awarded five new grants to support research on osteogenesis imperfecta. These grants will focus on developing treatments, such as gene therapies and drug treatments, to improve diagnosis and treatment options for people with OI.
Researchers at Duke University Medical Center found that dosing errors in clot-buster drugs may not be the primary cause of adverse outcomes. The study analyzed data from the ASSENT-2 trial and found that patients who received incorrect doses had similar mortality rates to those receiving the correct dose, suggesting confounding issues.
Researchers found that individuals with high anxiety sensitivity exhibit increased fear of anxiety and experience reduced anxiety symptoms when drinking. This study suggests that high AS individuals may drink excessively to cope with anxiety, leading to a higher risk of alcohol abuse.
University of Michigan professor Rodney Ewing argues that the Nuclear Regulatory Commission's method for assessing the Yucca Mountain site's safety is flawed due to large uncertainties. He proposes a more comprehensive approach by evaluating independent barriers, such as canisters and rock layers, to ensure the site's long-term safety.
A new study found that premenopausal women are more vulnerable to sudden, serious heart disease during their menstrual cycle when estrogen levels are at their lowest. The research also identified other health risks that worsen the odds for heart disease in young women.
Researchers found that young birds can recognize and prefer learning the songs of their own subspecies over other types. The study also revealed that birds have a more finely detailed sense of song than previously thought. After tutoring, two-thirds of the birds chose to sing their own subspecies' song.
Researchers at Yale have discovered that the Golgi apparatus is an independent organelle that exists independently of the endoplasmic reticulum. This finding gives researchers a better understanding of cell division and uncontrolled cell division in cancer.
A team of geologists proposes a new model for the collision and rifting of ancient continents, contradicting a previous theory. The revised model suggests that land masses were broken apart into smaller terrains that attached over time, rather than undergoing a massive collision.
Researchers at Duke University Medical Center found that African-Americans are 30% more likely to die from diastolic heart failure than their white counterparts. The study controlled for various factors such as age, gender, and disease severity, but the disparity persisted, suggesting a combination of genetic and treatment differences.
Individuals undergoing non-emergency angioplasty in facilities without surgical backup are twice as likely to die and 20% more likely to require bypass surgery. The study suggests that the procedure can be safely performed with a backup team for emergency cases, but not for non-emergency procedures.
A new study found that managed care organizations (MCOs) are moving towards instituting quality improvement programs, but may face significant barriers, including a lack of clear consensus among stakeholders and the desire for price over quality. MCO administrators believe that price alone drives most decisions to purchase healthcare.
Researchers used computer simulations to analyze the Chicxulub impact crater, revealing that it may have behaved like a fluid during its formation. This finding could help explain the complex internal structures observed in the crater and shed light on the environmental effects of large-impact craters.
A study of nearly three million fitness club members found a small but definite increase in risk of exercise-related fatal heart attacks or strokes among sporadic exercisers. Regular exercise is recommended to lower this risk, particularly for those with cardiovascular disease.
Researchers found that pre-menopausal levels of LDL cholesterol and cardiovascular risk factors were predictive of post-menopausal coronary artery calcium deposits. Women who developed coronary calcium were significantly heavier with higher body mass index and larger waists.
A new UCLA study reveals an inverse relationship between depression and strong ties to the African American community, independent of demographic and health factors. Women with strong ethnic identity experienced lower levels of depression and less excess weight.
Gary Leal, a professor of chemical engineering at the University of California, Santa Barbara, has been awarded the Society of Rheology's 2000 Bingham Medal. His research on polymeric liquids, liquid crystalline polymers, and suspensions/emulsions has significantly advanced the field of rheology.
A new study by UC Berkeley researchers reveals that premature birth and low birthweight significantly exacerbate asthma symptoms in children when exposed to smog. Children born prematurely or with low birthweight are more likely to experience severe wheezing, coughing, and shortness of breath on days with high air pollution levels.
Two studies found that women with the four risk factors had five times the risk of death as men, and children with metabolic syndrome risk factors were more likely to be obese. Researchers emphasize the need to prevent obesity in young people to reverse alarming trends in heart disease.
Researchers found that African-American Medicare patients received implantable defibrillator devices at one-third the rate of whites and women at less than half the rate of men. The disparity is significant, with defibrillators proven to be superior to existing medical treatments for severe cardiac arrhythmias.
A study by Mayo Clinic researchers reveals a possible cause of sudden deaths among men using Viagra, highlighting the need for safe use guidelines. The interaction between Viagra and nitrates can reduce blood flow through critically narrowed coronary arteries, leading to a life-threatening drop in oxygen supply.
James R. Stewart, a pioneer in scuba diving, was inducted into the NAUI Hall of Honor for his invaluable work on developing training procedures and data collecting techniques. He is recognized as an expert on interactions between divers and marine environments.
A German research team found that people who inherit two copies of the GNB3 825T allele gene have a high risk of obesity if they do not engage in regular physical activity. Exercising for two hours or more a week appears to block the genetic tendency, highlighting the importance of lifestyle in preventing obesity-related diseases.
Researchers compare a large imprinted region in the human genome with its counterpart in the mouse genome, identifying crucial genetic elements that control gene activity. The study provides the first global view of an entire imprinted region in any genome, shedding light on mechanisms of genomic imprinting.
Involuting mammary glands undergo two stages of apoptosis, with the first wave triggered by Fas binding to its ligand FasL. Mutant animals lacking Fas or FasL experience delayed epithelial cell death.
Researchers used MRI to show that statin drugs remove fat from atherosclerotic lesions, reducing the risk of heart attacks and strokes. Statins may detect patients at risk for cardiovascular disease, identify treatment options, and monitor treatment effectiveness.
Scientists at University of Maryland Biotechnology Institute discover ubiquilin controls levels of proteins central to early development of Alzheimer's disease. The molecule increases presenilin levels in cells, a key step in understanding the disease.
Researchers have identified a link between obesity, digestive system malfunctions, and excessive alcohol production in the liver. Feeding obese mice antibiotics significantly reduced alcohol production, suggesting a potential treatment strategy using oral antibiotics or yogurt to constrain intestinal bacterial overgrowth.
Researchers at OHSU are conducting a four-year study to determine whether ginkgo biloba can delay or prevent the early stages of Alzheimer's disease in people 85 years and older. The study aims to recruit 200 subjects who do not display signs of mental impairment and will use written, verbal, and MRI tests to assess cognitive function.
Researchers found that fen-phen use can cause abnormal thickening of heart valve leaflets, possibly due to increased production of TBF-beta-1. Serotonin and tryptophan may play a role in this process.
The University of Michigan has thoroughly investigated the book 'Darkness in El Dorado' by Patrick Tierney and found that major claims are false. The university confirms that Dr. Neel's medical care was humane and medically appropriate, and the measles outbreak occurred before his arrival.
A new Mayo Clinic study suggests that coffee drinkers may have less than half the risk of developing Parkinson's disease compared to non-coffee drinkers. The study found that individuals who consumed four or more cups of coffee per day had an average age of onset eight years older for the disease.
USGS researchers link Mercury levels in Lake Tulane to global climate changes, while also analyzing African dust's role in affecting coral health. Additionally, scientists explore the Chesapeake Bay bolide's crater formation and its structural implications.
OHSU researchers successfully used bone marrow stem cells to repair liver damage in mice with genetic disease Tyrosinemia. The study shows that hematopoietic stem cells are required for liver cell regeneration, offering hope for new therapies using stem cells.
A study found that a combination of statin and niacin can reduce the risk of hospitalization for chest pain or heart attacks by 70% among patients at high risk. The treatment also showed promise in reversing arterial buildup in these patients, with angiograms revealing decreased plaque buildup in most participants.
Researchers at Georgia Tech, HP Labs, and UCLA receive the Feynman Prize in Nanotechnology for their work on building devices with atomic precision. The team, led by Uzi Landman and R. Stanley Williams, successfully created a molecular switch, a key step towards building entire memory chips at the nanoscale.
Renowned botanist Peter H. Raven is among the 12 scientists to receive the prestigious National Medal of Science. He has made significant contributions to plant systematics and evolution, introducing the concept of coevolution and preserving biodiversity worldwide.
Researchers suggest that mountain-front reservoirs store water, smoothing out seasonal fluctuations and leaving only long-term cycles. This process is influenced by the fluctuating position of the water table relative to stream levels.
A study found that 28% of fitness clubs in Ohio failed to conduct pre-entry screenings for cardiovascular problems, while 17% reported heart attacks or sudden deaths. Gyms must implement recommended screening practices and emergency response plans to ensure member safety.
Researchers identify gC1qR as a binding partner for Hepatitis C core protein, allowing the virus to evade immune response and persist in the body. The interaction between gC1qR and core protein may provide new targets for developing therapies to combat chronic hepatitis C.
A University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill study found that 7% of healthy North Carolina schoolchildren already have three risk factors for heart disease and type II diabetes. Obesity is the sole significant predictor of these risk factors, with obese children 53 times more likely to develop insulin resistance syndrome.
A Duke University Medical Center study found that ACE inhibitors are prescribed in just over half the cases they should be, despite clear evidence of their benefits. The study's author suggests increasing physician education and implementing an oversight system to ensure patients receive the best treatments.
A study found that antidiabetic drugs are less effective in mice without adipose tissue, suggesting a possible connection between fatty liver disease and diabetes. The authors also noted that the drugs still had some beneficial effects on lipid metabolism in these animals.
Researchers at UCLA Medical Center found that implementing a dual list for organs increases the supply of usable donor hearts for older adults. The program allows patients over 65 to receive transplants from donor hearts with minor repair needs, previously deemed unsuitable for younger patients. This approach improves patient survival ...
A follow-up study of the VEGF in Ischemia for Vascular Angiogenesis (VIVA) trial found that gene therapy did not increase the risk of cancer or adverse events in patients with severe angina. The results showed a lower rate of adverse events in patients receiving the high-dose VEGF, and encouraging reductions in chest pain after one year.
Researchers found that patients with periodontal disease had significantly higher levels of C-reactive protein in their blood than those without gum disease, indicating an increased risk of future heart attacks. The study suggests that treating severe gum disease may help reduce CRP levels and the risk of another heart attack.
Researchers have successfully created viable new heart muscle cells using marrow stromal cells from an animal's own bone marrow. The goal is to replace dead heart muscle cells with new ones, potentially offering a treatment for life-threatening heart failure.
A study by the American Heart Association found that individuals with heart attacks are more likely to have periodontal disease, a type of gum tissue inflammation. The researchers believe that high blood levels of C-reactive protein may be linked between the two conditions.
A new study suggests that losartan, a type of hypertension medication, may improve sexual function in men with high blood pressure. After 12 weeks of treatment, 88% of hypertensive males with sexual dysfunction reported improvement in at least one area of sexuality. The drug also showed promise in improving overall quality of life.
A Mediterranean-style diet rich in olive oil, fruit, and fish was associated with a lower risk of death after a heart attack. The study found that participants who consumed more fresh fruits and vegetables had a reduced risk of dying within 42 months after their heart attack.
A study by Wake Forest University Baptist Medical Center found that reducing prednisone medication can eliminate unpleasant side effects without affecting survival rates. 80% of adult transplant patients were successfully weaned off prednisone within two years, with no increased risk of rejection or infection.
A recent study suggests that trans fatty acids, commonly found in baked goods and fried foods, may contribute to an increased risk of heart disease. The researchers found that diets high in trans fats led to higher triglyceride levels and lower HDL cholesterol.
Recent study by Princeton University scientists reveals that reforestation of former farmland has played a crucial role in reducing atmospheric carbon dioxide. The finding highlights the importance of historical land-use changes in understanding carbon uptake in North American forests.
A Johns Hopkins study found that one-third of Korean Americans have high blood pressure, with almost 75% not controlling it. The prevalence is 32%, much higher than the American rate of 24% and Korean rate of 22%. English-speaking ability directly impacts hypertension control among Korean Americans.
A Syracuse University study has identified bias in Internet domain name dispute resolution, with arbitrators favoring trademark holders over registrants. The study analyzed data from ICANN's Uniform Dispute Resolution Policy and found that some service providers rule more frequently in favor of trademark holders.
A University of Pittsburgh study reveals that young women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) are at high risk of developing premature atherosclerosis by middle age. The researchers found that PCOS patients had higher levels of cardiovascular disease risk factors, including insulin and LDL cholesterol.
MARstem demonstrates potential as a multilineage hematopoietic therapy to treat or prevent pancytopenia following chemotherapy in breast cancer patients. The study's results show excellent safety and preliminary efficacy, suggesting MARstem may improve debilitating side effects of cancer treatment.