The study confirms a suspected global epidemic of childhood obesity, with higher rates in the US compared to Russia and China. Obesity prevalence varies by socioeconomic status and geographic location, with urban areas and affluent families more likely to be affected.
The US FDA's priority review process for cancer drugs is significantly faster than its European counterpart, EMEA. In contrast to the EMEA's average approval time of over two years, the FDA approves cancer drugs on average within six months.
Two groups of researchers identify how anthrax toxin destroys cells and how to prevent it. They discovered a protein on the surface of animal cells that acts as a receptor for the toxin, and a way to attach the toxin to its target molecule inside cells, leading to cell death.
Celera Genomics has adopted Aura's OPUS software to streamline its development processes, saving time and resources. The partnership demonstrates the practical applications of innovative technologies developed for space exploration.
Researchers at Newcastle University are using satellites to measure 'bouncing' landscapes, which can affect the accuracy of large construction projects. The study aims to improve the accuracy of surveying data by 10 times, reducing costs by a significant margin.
Researchers have identified the anthrax toxin receptor, a single protein that allows the toxin to enter host cells. The discovery may lead to the development of new treatments for anthrax infection by blocking the toxin from entering cells.
The top countries in academic paper production are US, Italy, UK, Japan, and France. The study analyzed papers published between 1995-1999 and found that North America produced more phase I studies while Europe dominated phase III studies. Italy's performance was attributed to its large number of physicians involved in cancer treatment.
A recent study published in American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that energy consumption from carbohydrates, proteins, and fats enhances memory performance in healthy elderly individuals. The researchers discovered that fat improved attention while protein enhanced recall over time.
A study found that consuming cocoa and dark chocolate slowed LDL oxidation by 8% and boosted total antioxidant capacity. However, experts stress the importance of a balanced diet that includes a variety of whole foods to support overall cardiovascular health.
Researchers found that consuming flavonoid-rich chocolate can increase HDL cholesterol and slow down LDL oxidation. This effect may contribute to a reduced risk of cardiovascular disease.
Scientists have sequenced the 'CT18' strain of Salmonella typhi, resistant to cheap antibiotics, and developed new treatment methods. The research provides crucial information on disease spread and mechanisms, potentially leading to a vaccine that can be affordable for everyone.
A new computer tool forecasts individualized treatment outcomes and risk assessments for patients with breast cancer. The program provides easy-to-read reviews of different treatment options, helping patients make informed decisions about their care.
A new 'double suicide gene' therapy has shown promise in treating prostate cancer by carrying pairs of fused genes directly into cancer cells and inducing self-destruction. The technique achieved "greater levels of targeted cytotoxicity" than single suicide gene therapy, with minimal toxicities reported among patients.
A study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that elderly subjects had a lower white blood cell count increase after refeeding, indicating impaired immune function. This suggests that poor nutritional status in elderly patients may amplify the risk of infection or disease.
The Chernobyl nuclear disaster has led to a significant increase in thyroid cancer cases, particularly among children and young adults who were exposed to fall-out. The risk of thyroid cancer continues to rise, with the highest rates seen 15-19 years after exposure.
The rate of prostate cancer diagnosis has increased significantly, with only 3-5% of newly diagnosed patients having advanced disease. However, the impact of this shift on mortality rates is uncertain, as PSA screening can lead to over-treatment and unnecessary aggressive treatment.
A study of 96 elderly women found that high caffeine intake (over 300mg/day) accelerates bone loss, especially in those with the tt VDR genotype. Moderate caffeine consumption is not linked to increased bone loss, and doctors recommend adequate calcium and moderate caffeine for their patients.
Geologist Edward Keller has discovered a lost island, Isla Calafia, submerged for over 13,000 years under the Santa Barbara channel. The island, 31 miles long and three miles wide, rises about 660 feet from the bottom of the channel and is bordered by two major earthquake faults.
Cornell University has received a $150,000 grant from Microsoft to develop language-based security for mobile code. The new technology aims to protect computers from viruses and malicious code downloaded from the internet.
Researchers have identified Candidatus Endobugula sertula bacteria in Bugula neritina as the likely source of the anti-cancer compound Bryostatin 1. The study provides a new experimental system to unlock the potential of bryostatin drugs.