Researchers found that urban living increases the risk of asthma among black children in the US, while highly active antiretroviral therapy reduces TB and Mycobacterium avium complex infections in HIV patients. Prenatal corticosteroid treatment also boosts surfactant production in preterm infants with respiratory distress syndrome.
Researchers aim to design technology that allows users to create profiles of their information interests, enabling customized information services and efficient data recharging on portable devices. The team plans to develop a profiling language and middleware techniques to track users' online needs.
The extinction of the Miss Waldron's red colobus monkey is a warning sign of an impending ecological disaster in West Africa. The loss of large-bodied monkeys, including primates and forest antelope, threatens the region's biodiversity, highlighting the need for improved law enforcement, protected areas, and conservation education.
The Congressional briefing explores how neighborhoods affect health risks, school achievement in children, and discrimination's impact on quality of life. Three experts share research findings about the importance of understanding and addressing neighborhood conditions.
Researchers at Ohio State University have developed tiny artificial muscles that can dispense medication through microscopic holes in a prototype 'smart pill' implant. The capsules measure only a few micrometers across and can be used to power micro-sized medical devices or separate chemicals.
A Brown University research team is creating innovative visualization tools to help scientists better analyze and understand complex data. The project combines techniques from painting, sculpture, and graphic design with perceptual psychology to provide more effective pictures of huge amounts of data.
A McGill University research project demonstrates streaming high-quality multichannel audio over the internet from Montreal to Los Angeles. The demonstration features renowned recording engineers mixing 12 channels of audio in real-time.
Researchers are developing BioMEMs, implant materials and devices that integrate micro- and nanoscale features to affect cellular function. These therapeutic systems use chip technology, material science, and bioengineering to grow heart cells in culture and protect implanted cells with precision.
Researchers create micropatterns of polyethylene glycol to glue biological entities to computer chips, enabling rapid detection of substances. The technique has potential applications in laboratory screening, implantable medical devices, and diagnostic devices.
Astronomer Joseph Veverka's team observed a 'saturated' surface with tiny craters and abundant blocks of ejected debris on asteroid 433 Eros. The low gravity is puzzling, as most ejecta would be expected to escape into space.
Researchers found that female mice lacking IRS-2 protein are infertile due to defective ovaries and abnormal hormone production. The study suggests an evolutionarily conserved pathway linking energy metabolism and fertility in humans and animals, with potential implications for diabetes treatment.
University of Maryland researchers successfully created a new brain circuit that takes over damaged vision functions in newborn hamsters. The study suggests that surgically created neural pathways might one day be used to treat brain damage and restore lost functions like vision or hearing.
Researchers found that bees can deliver a biological fungicide to strawberry blooms more effectively than mechanical sprayers, reducing infected strawberries by 72 percent. The bee-delivered natural fungicide was as effective as chemical sprays at preventing gray mold, a common disease in strawberries.
Researchers found that a Tat-specific killer T cell response can effectively contain simian immunodeficiency virus during early infection, leading to a massive immune response. The study suggests a new approach to designing HIV vaccines by stimulating immune responses against virus proteins produced within hours of infection.
The Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center is developing a new strategy for obtaining plants with desirable genetic mutations using the TILLING method. This approach allows for rapid and large-scale analysis of mutations without introducing genetically modified material.
A study has confirmed that VirtualPhenotype can accurately predict HIV therapy response using genetic resistance information, outperforming expert interpretation. This standardized approach offers a reliable alternative for optimal treatment decision-making.
The American Geophysical Union is seeking nominations for the 2001 Sullivan and Perlman Awards, which recognize outstanding reporting in science journalism that makes geophysical science accessible to the general public. Nominations must be submitted by January 13, 2001.
Researchers found that children with a parent who had a premature heart attack showed structural and functional abnormalities in their arteries as young as 6 years old. These changes included thickened vessel walls and decreased reactivity, which can lead to atherosclerosis and increase the risk of heart disease.
Researchers have discovered a potentially promising approach to attack the AIDS virus, opening new vaccine directions. The study found that infected individuals make immune responses that the virus cannot tolerate, and that these responses could be mimicked in an HIV vaccine.
A study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found a strong inverse association between fruit and vegetable intake and the risk of cardiovascular disease. Consuming 10 or more servings per day reduced the risk by 32%, while smokers still experienced a significant risk reduction.
Researchers investigate use and social impacts of Blacksburg Electronic Village through community surveys, interviews, and psychological scales. They aim to understand the role of community networks in shaping local business activities and public decision-making.
Mayo Clinic researchers have developed a new antibody test to help diagnose autonomic disorders caused by the immune system. The test detects antibodies that bind to an important protein on autonomic nerve cells, helping physicians evaluate patients with autonomic failure.
Scientists have discovered a cellular mechanism in hibernating ground squirrels that allows them to survive extreme cold and hypothermia. The study found changes in the cell membrane, specifically slits on neurons and glia, which enable proteins to function within selected lipid domains.
A national center for dietary supplement research will be established at Purdue University, combining expertise in plants and natural compounds with analytical technology. The center aims to understand the mechanisms of disease prevention and develop 'designer botanicals' to test their anticancer properties.
Researchers found that offspring of premature heart attack victims exhibit structural and functional changes in their arteries, including thicker vessel walls and reduced reactivity, even in the absence of other risk factors. This study uses high-resolution ultrasound to detect early signs of atherosclerosis at young ages.
A University of Florida study found that many calcium supplements contain lead, posing a risk to consumers who ingest high doses. The researchers recommend choosing lead-free brands and labeling products to minimize exposure.
A study found that breast cancer mortality was almost identical in two groups of women aged 50-59, one receiving annual mammograms and the other physical examinations alone. Effective and regular breast physical examinations with breast self-examination may be an alternative to annual mammograms for this age group.
A study evaluated dosage adjustments of Agenerase in HIV patients taking efavirenz or nevirapine, showing that therapeutic plasma concentrations were maintained at 6 or 12 weeks. Dosage adjustments resulted in improved amprenavir levels in all cases, despite the presence of efavirenz or nevirapine.
A study found that the number of family members caring for chronically disabled parents or spouses decreased, but those who did were more likely to be primary caregivers. The Baby Boomer generation's lower fertility rate is expected to increase pressure on family care in the coming decades.
The phase III clinical trial demonstrated a significant reduction in S. aureus bacteremias during the first ten months, but not after one-year follow-up. The study found that StaphVAX-induced antibodies protected against bloodstream infections.
A study published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal examines the effects of global warming on world health, highlighting direct and indirect impacts. The authors conclude that reducing fossil fuel combustion and advocating for environmental improvements are essential to mitigate these risks.
Research in Occupational and Environmental Medicine shows that prolonged wakefulness impairs reaction times, accuracy, coordination, and attention span, similar to levels of alcohol intoxication. The effects are thought to be cumulative and pose a serious risk to safety, particularly in transportation settings.
A review by Sanjiv Agarwal and Akkinappally Venketeshwer Rao suggests that dietary antioxidants, particularly lycopene found in tomatoes, may have protective effects against cancer. Further research is necessary to establish guidelines for healthy eating and confirm the role of lycopene in disease prevention.
A major international trial found that giving extra radiotherapy to patients with early breast cancer substantially reduces the risk of cancer recurring in the breast. The study, involving 5,569 patients from nine countries, showed a significant benefit in younger women, particularly those under 40.
A new study from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill suggests that current PSA screening strategies should be changed. Testing men at ages 40 and 45, and then every two years after age 50, may prevent more deaths than waiting until age 50.
A study analyzing data from 28 countries found that a diet rich in olive oil was associated with a decreased risk of bowel cancer. The researchers discovered that meat and fish consumption, particularly high amounts, increased the risk of the disease, whereas cereal and vegetable intake had a protective effect.
Defibrillator availability for home use could save thousands of lives, says Dr. Mickey Eisenberg. Despite high costs, he suggests AEDs could become more affordable and accessible with proper labeling and training.
Research in Occupational and Environmental Medicine found that bullying at work increases sick leave among hospital staff, with victims and colleagues of bullies taking more time off. The study analyzed data from over 7000 employees across Finland, finding a significant link between workplace bullying and increased rates of sickness.
The State Children's Health Insurance Program (SCHIP) needs a broader scope and clearer goals to truly benefit children and families. States should focus on quality of care, including regular physician visits and preventive services, as well as plan ahead for primary care services and evaluate program effectiveness.
Researchers at MIT found that urban air pollution will not have a big effect on global temperature change, with some regional effects possible. The study used a new method to couple urban air chemistry models with global climate models, allowing for more accurate predictions.
A nurse home visitation program found to be less effective in preventing child abuse and neglect in households with high incidents of domestic violence. The study suggests that the program may not address the root cause of domestic violence, which can exacerbate child maltreatment.
Researchers at the University of Washington School of Dentistry found no link between periodontal disease and chronic coronary heart disease. Despite shared risk factors, their analysis of over 8,000 people showed only a slight connection.
A study of 9,454 patients found that abnormal heart rate recovery after exercise is a strong predictor of mortality. The researchers also discovered that the combination of abnormal heart rate recovery and a high-risk treadmill test score provides even stronger prognostic information.
Researchers found that zebra mussels stimulate bacterial production and increase numbers in sediment, but have a minor impact on the microbenthic community. The study suggests that zebra mussels may not disrupt normal processes of the microbenthic community.
The NIDA Clinical Toolbox provides comprehensive science-based materials for drug abuse counselors, including therapy manuals, counseling approaches, and research reports. This resource aims to revolutionize treatment options for patients in community-level clinical settings.
The estimated total first year costs for diagnosing, treating, and managing FMMA range from $410 for insulin resistance to $7,368 for abnormal fat distribution, with second-year costs ranging from $115 to $3,895 depending on the symptom being treated.
The American Association for the Advancement of Science recommends that human trials of inheritable genetic changes should not be initiated until reliable techniques for gene correction or replacement are developed. Serious ethical and religious issues also must be addressed as research policy is formulated, including concerns about ju...
The Alliance For Cellular Signaling will map thousands of molecular interactions in cells using a collaborative approach. Researchers will publish data on the Internet immediately, enabling free access to enhance medical treatment discoveries.
Studies show Avandia reduces hepatic fat and increases subcutaneous fat without increasing intra-abdominal fat, a key factor in type 2 diabetes. The medication also decreases plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 levels, associated with cardiovascular risk factors.
Researchers found that nurse home visits reduced child abuse and neglect by up to 80% among low-income, unmarried women and their first-born children. The program had little effect on homes with moderate to severe domestic violence.
Researchers found that mutations in the ABCR gene cause a wide range of eye problems, including Stargardt disease and retinitis pigmentosa. The study suggests that a single therapy designed to replace ABCR activity could alleviate or prevent retinal degeneration.
The NIH has awarded a grant to MetaPhore Pharmaceuticals to study potential new treatments for acute and chronic pain. The research aims to develop metal-based compounds that mimic the body's natural defense mechanism against oxidative damage, with the goal of creating non-opiate drugs for pain management.
A new survey and observational study found that only 67% of people actually wash their hands before leaving a public restroom, despite 95% saying they do. Women are more likely to practice good hygiene than men, with women reporting higher rates of handwashing after various activities or events.
Studies found human evolution led to a decrease in high-risk genetic variants associated with these diseases, instead increasing protective e2 and e3 variants. Analysis suggests advantageous mutations may have driven this shift.
A comparative study found Factive eradicated H. influenzae after one day, while Biaxin took seven days. The results showed Factive's superior efficacy in treating chronic bronchitis airway infections.
A study published in Occupational and Environmental Medicine found that prolonged wakefulness impairs cognitive performance similarly to moderate alcohol consumption. The researchers tested 39 adults who worked in transportation, finding reaction times slowed by up to 50% after 17-19 hours of waking.
The launch of Avandia provides patients with inadequate glycaemic control a new treatment option. Adding Avandia to metformin improves fasting plasma glucose levels in obese patients, reducing the risk of disease progression. This combination therapy also shows promise for patients with mild-to-moderate renal impairment.
A study of 18,244 Chinese males found that consuming cruciferous vegetables like broccoli was protective against lung cancer. The benefit depends on genetic factors, with subjects lacking the metabolism enzyme GSTM1 showing a 64% decrease in risk of lung cancer.
Avandia targets both fundamental causes of type 2 diabetes by reducing insulin resistance and improving beta-cell function, providing enhanced glycaemic control. This dual therapeutic approach may delay disease progression and alter outcomes.
A study by Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center found that people who continued to smoke after undergoing balloon angioplasty and other procedures had lower quality-of-life scores compared to non-smokers and quitters. The researchers analyzed data from 1,432 patients and found a significant impact on physical and mental health measures.