Researchers found high concentrations of discharged microbes in ballast water from ships arriving at Chesapeake Bay ports. The study highlights the need for greater concern about biological invasions and emergent diseases, as non-indigenous microorganisms can cause significant ecological and disease processes.
Experts warn of a high risk of 700-800 deaths in US airport runway collisions over the next two decades. The study, which analyzed data from 1983 to 2022, found that most fatal accidents involved large jet planes and occurred during reduced visibility conditions.
Women who repeatedly gain and lose weight, especially if obese, have lower HDL or
A one-year study found that moderate vitamin E supplementation can slow the oxidation of LDL cholesterol in diabetics, reducing their risk of cardiovascular disease. The authors suggest that uninterrupted long-term supplementation may be preferable over short-term 'cures' using high-doses or intravenous administration.
Adults exposed to Dutch famine in utero exhibit abnormal lipid profiles, with significantly higher total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol levels. Maternal malnutrition in the first trimester permanently alters offspring lipid profiles later in life.
An interactive computer game can save lives by teaching potential heart attack victims to react swiftly at the first sign of a heart attack. The HEART-SENSE Game, developed by Barry G. Silverman and John Holmes, uses virtual personas and quizzes to educate users about early warning signs and the importance of calling 911.
The University of California, San Francisco strongly rejected claims made by a company that attempted to block publication of an important AIDS research study. The study found no evidence of clinical benefit for the drug HIV-1 Immunogen in boosting the immune system of patients with HIV-1.
Experts at UNC-CH School of Social Work are developing a social development program called Making Choices to strengthen children's social skills and reduce peer rejection, alienation, and aggression. The program aims to teach children conflict resolution skills and foster enduring friendships in multicultural peer groups.
The University of Pittsburgh is conducting a study on transplant patients who have been off immunosuppressive drugs for up to 6.6 years, aiming to identify potential tests for transplant tolerance. The study may lead to breakthroughs in understanding and managing autoimmune diseases such as multiple sclerosis.
The DIRECT programme aims to establish whether candesartan cilexetil can prevent and treat diabetic retinopathy. The trial will investigate the effect of RAS blockade on diabetic patients with and without retinopathy.
A study of 24 postmenopausal women found no significant differences in resting metabolic rate (RMR) between those who lost weight and a control group. Despite average weight loss of 13 kg, the subjects regained an average of 10.9 kg after energy balance was restored.
A new brain imaging study found that people with schizophrenia exhibit distinct brain changes at the earliest stages of the illness, potentially identifying warning signs and preventing development. The research suggests a role for brain imaging in pinpointing early signs and may lead to preventive psychiatry.
The American Federation for Aging Research (AFAR) has launched Infoaging.org, a new website offering easy access to authoritative research on aging. The site aims to provide credible information on various aspects of aging, addressing the need for reliable health information among graying baby boomers.
Research suggests a genetic link between dopamine D4 receptor gene polymorphism and attachment disorganization in infants, with extensive disorganized behavior observed in up to 80% of high-risk infants. The study's findings imply a genetic susceptibility to the collapse of organized attachment under stress.
Post-menopausal women who consume moderate amounts of alcohol (2-4 drinks per week) have significantly higher bone mineral density than those who do not drink. The study found that lower levels of parathyroid hormone and increased estrogen levels were associated with the positive effect on bone health.
A large randomized trial evaluating a compound intended to boost the immune response of HIV patients showed no effect on slowing disease progression. The study, led by UCSF and Harvard researchers, defied the sponsor's attempt to block publication, affirming the University's right to publish unfavorable or neutral research findings.
A new study by University of California, San Francisco researchers highlights the need for clear guidelines to manage potential conflicts of interest in academic research. The study found that nearly eight percent of UCSF scientists reported financial ties to industry sponsors in 1999, with complex relationships being seen as problematic.
The NIH-NSF Ecology of Infectious Diseases initiative aims to understand ecological relationships between human-induced environmental changes and infectious disease emergence. The research projects will study the effects of habitat destruction, biological invasion, and pollution on disease risks in humans and animals.
A Cornell University study reveals a significant decline in employment among working-age Americans with disabilities, with most experiencing a loss of economic ground despite receiving higher Social Security disability payments. The researchers argue that new national policies are needed to reintegrate young people with disabilities in...
The paper attributes the decline in homicide since the early 1990s to changes in drug markets, police response to gun carrying by young males, and economic expansion. Fewer handguns were used in homicides, especially among juveniles and young adults.
A six-month group exercise program with supervised aerobic exercise and relaxation training reduced depression in obese women by half. The study found no significant weight loss, highlighting the need for long-term behavioral changes.
Jan Lohmann and Thomas Bosch report a discovery of the novel peptide HEADY, which acts as a potent inducer of head formation in lower metazoans. Grafting experiments show that HEADY induces a secondary head in Hydra tissue, revealing its role as a developmental switch for axis specification.
Short-term travelers to high-risk areas are at risk of getting typhoid fever, particularly those visiting India and Pakistan. The CDC recommends vaccination for travelers who have prolonged exposure to contaminated food and drink.
War has a profound impact on the environment and human health, causing widespread destruction of infrastructures, displacement of populations, and ongoing presence of radioactivity and toxins. Medical personnel working in conflicts must recognize and document sexual violence, provide necessary care, and advocate for justice to prevent ...
Researchers like Dr. Melanie Mormile are exploring the possibility of finding ancient bacteria on Mars, which could provide evidence for life on the planet. By dating salt-loving bacteria on Earth, scientists aim to confirm whether similar organisms can survive for hundreds of millions of years.
Research suggests that compounds in chocolate, such as tetrahydro-beta-carbolines, may contribute to chocolate cravings. These compounds are also found in wine, beer, and liquor, but no connection has been established with compulsive drinking.
Rutgers University has five faculty members recognized as fellows of the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) for their outstanding research and achievements in various fields. Jolie Cizewski, Joan Ehrenfeld, Doina Ganea, Paul Kantor, and Thomas Rudel were cited by AAAS for their contributions to physics, ecology,...
A recent study highlights the significant impact of stress on refugee health, revealing that psychological factors such as anxiety, depression, and financial worries contribute to physical illness and mental health issues. The study found that only 6% of refugees suffered from PTSD, suggesting that a medical diagnosis may not fully cap...
Researchers at the University at Buffalo have found that a combination of fish oil and vitamin E reduces inflammation-inducing cytokines in mice with rheumatoid arthritis. This study suggests that these nutrients may delay symptoms and improve function for patients with this disease.
Researchers induced human adult stem cells to develop into various tissues, including bone, cartilage, and muscle, when transplanted into fetal sheep. The transplanted cells persisted for over a year without rejection, suggesting potential for tissue repair and regeneration.
A Phase III study found that Aslera improved bone mineral density in female lupus patients by 1.8% compared to a loss of 1.8%, with greater increases observed in postmenopausal patients. This suggests that Aslera may be effective in preventing osteoporosis and fractures in women with SLE.
The hospital won a national award for its innovative communication techniques, including posters, email, website, and media publicity. The Young Investigator Award program stressed the importance of communicating research to the public, recognizing the achievements of younger researchers.
A Phase III study found that Aslera significantly improved disease activity and symptoms in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), a chronic autoimmune disease. The treatment also showed benefits for bone mineral density, particularly in women on steroids.
Researchers found that low-level ultraviolet irradiation and refrigeration can significantly increase the antioxidant compound resveratrol in grapes, potentially leading to reduced risk of high cholesterol, heart disease, and Alzheimer's. The treatment has no known side effects and may be beneficial for other grape varieties.
Researchers have identified a genetic cause for immunoglobulin A nephropathy (IgAN), the most common form of glomerulonephritis worldwide. The gene, located on chromosome 6, is linked to the disease in about 60% of families studied.
The National Drug Abuse Treatment Clinical Trials Network has expanded to include 11 regional research centers and nearly 70 community-based treatment programs. The five newly funded centers will receive $11 million over five years, bringing the total funding for all 11 components to $121 million.
GL701 significantly reduced lupus flares, with 18% of patients experiencing flares compared to 34% on placebo. The study also showed improved quality of life and reduced adverse events.
A tiny gallium arsenide bar has been developed that can bend infrared beams with minimal loss of light, opening possibilities for more efficient lasers and photonic computing. The device uses a two-dimensional photonic crystal structure with strategically placed holes to filter out unwanted wavelengths.
A recent study found that treatments like levomethadyl acetate (LAAM) and buprenorphine were more effective in treating heroin addiction than low-dose methadone. The study showed significant reductions in heroin use for patients on LAAM, buprenorphine, or high-dose methadone.
Randomized trials demonstrate the effectiveness of mammography programs in reducing breast cancer mortality. The studies showed that recall rates after first and subsequent screens were 9.5% and 4.6%, respectively. Additionally, organized breast cancer screening programs can provide more comprehensive monitoring for at-risk populations.
A new study finds that black men are 33% more likely to develop hip osteoarthritis than white men, while black women are twice as likely to develop the condition. Weight disparities account for comparable differences in women.
Researchers found that ELF-EMF significantly reduced the development of mouse pre-antral follicles, a crucial step for successful reproduction. Exposure to 33Hz or 50Hz frequencies impaired follicle development, with only around a third and half of exposed follicles developing antral cavities compared to controls.
Biomedical engineers at Johns Hopkins University use a laser device to view microscopic movement and detect stutter-step motions in Listeria tails. This contradicts the widely held belief that filaments grow and push in a smooth continuous motion, suggesting a new mechanism for bacterial locomotion.
The conference will feature presentations by renowned neurologists and Epilepsy experts, including Dr. Paul Mullin and Dr. Moise Danielpour, discussing the latest anticonvulsants and epilepsy surgery options.
The American Society for Tropical Medicine and Hygiene has warned of an emerging dengue fever crisis in South Texas. The region's high population density and abundance of Aedes aegypti mosquitoes are fueling increased disease transmission, with risks including epidemic dengue hemorrhagic fever and death.
A University of Iowa study found that individuals who test negative for Huntington disease often experience doubts and guilt rather than relief. They struggle to redefine their goals and purpose in life after learning they don't carry the gene mutation.
The US is facing a shortage of antiparasitic drugs due to low market demand, making treatment options scarce for diseases like schistosomiasis and liver fluke infections. The CDC has stepped in to distribute remaining stocks, but more support is needed to ensure availability.
A systematic strategy to improve primary care for domestic violence victims showed promise, with clinicians reporting increased effectiveness and reduced fears. The study found a 14% increase in inquiries about domestic violence and a 30% increase in diagnoses, paving the way for cost-effective system changes.
Researchers at MIT have developed a new alternator design that significantly increases electrical power in future cars while also improving fuel efficiency. The technology, which uses active switches to control current flow, solves several technical problems associated with higher-voltage systems.
Researchers have determined the structure of a key protein from paramyxoviruses, which causes respiratory diseases in children and animals. The study reveals clues for effective new drugs and highlights the benefits of structural biology in guiding drug design against communicable diseases.
A University of Pennsylvania study suggests that taking ibuprofen before aspirin can inhibit the cardioprotective benefits gained from a daily aspirin regimen. The study found no competitive interaction between aspirin and Tylenol or Vioxx when taken separately.
A new Cornell University study found that surgeons performing carotid endarterectomies who got their licenses 20 or more years ago had the highest mortality rate among their patients. The study also found a relation between the mortality of endarterectomy patients and the number of times surgeons performed the procedure.
A team of top experts from the University of California will participate in the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change Conference of the Parties (COP-6) in The Hague, Netherlands. The scientists will present a special event on global climate change issues, providing objective scientific discussions and updates.
A study found that at least 25% of Eco-Challenge participants developed leptospirosis after returning home. The CDC reports that swimming in the river was the only independently significant risk factor for infection. Travelers should investigate location risks to minimize infectious disease exposure.
A large study found nearly 12% of high school students experienced severe dating violence, with female victims more likely to report poor mental health and suicide attempts. Male perpetrators also faced negative effects, including poor physical health and dissatisfaction with life.
The Kantrowitz CardioVad System is a new category of cardiac assist device that boosts the patient's own heart while preserving independence. By taking over up to 50% of the heart's function, patients can release themselves for short periods without compromising their condition.
Researchers discovered that COMP significantly increases in the blood of people with hip or knee osteoarthritis even before X-rays reveal joint damage. Elevated levels of COMP correspond strongly with reports of joint pain and may indicate an early stage of osteoarthritis.
Research finds that rheumatoid arthritis patients experience longer hospital stays and higher total charges due to complications, with a notable impact on quality of life. The disease also results in increased healthcare utilization for general symptoms beyond musculoskeletal complaints.
Interleukin-1.com provides updated information on IL-1 role in RA, meeting a need for rheumatologists and health care professionals. The site offers resources, including a primer book and presentation materials, to enhance understanding of cytokine biology and its relevance to RA.
A Cornell University parent-education program has shown that it can triple the likelihood of parents discussing HIV risk reduction with their children. The program also significantly increases the likelihood that parents will make personal risk behavior changes and obtain HIV testing. The study, which involved 375 parents in New York C...