A study of Medicare prescription benefit plans found that higher copayments reduce the use of brand-name drugs and lower overall plan costs, but also increase enrollee out-of-pocket expenses. The research suggests that combining cost-sharing strategies with other cost-containment mechanisms can help balance these competing effects.
The completed mouse genome provides a powerful research tool to extract meaning from the human genome sequence. It allows scientists to recognize functionally important regions in the human genome by virtue of their conservation through evolution.
The EMBO Restart Programme supports six female scientists who will be returning to their labs after taking career breaks to have families. The programme aims to counteract losses to science and research caused by women leaving the workforce.
The National Institutes of Health's NIAMS has funded eight research projects to better understand and treat heritable disorders of connective tissue. These conditions, such as osteogenesis imperfecta and Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, affect millions of Americans and have few effective treatments.
Studies suggest that smokers can reduce their smoking by using various strategies, including nicotine replacement devices and behavioral interventions. Researchers found that those who used multiple strategies smoked fewer cigarettes per day compared to those who relied on a single method.
Researchers at Penn State have developed a small 'thermoacoustic refrigerator' that uses sound energy to generate cooling, potentially replacing chemical refrigerants. The device operates near resonance frequencies and achieves efficiencies as high as 89% without lubricants or sliding seals.
Global analysis reveals 46% of the Earth's land surface is still intact wilderness, but only 2.4% of the world's population inhabits it. The areas are under threat from encroaching agriculture and resource extraction, with only 7% enjoying protection.
The Global Health Research Initiative Program for New Foreign Investigators (GRIP) provides support to young researchers from developing countries. The program aims to enhance scientific research capacity and address critical global health issues, including AIDS, cancer, and neurological disorders.
UC Davis Institute of Transportation Studies will conduct the first public evaluation of American consumer reactions to fuel cells, studying awareness, knowledge, and attitudes towards hydrogen fuel-cell vehicles. The program aims to identify early markets, educate communities, and design consumer-friendly refueling stations.
Researchers found that calcium channel blockers primarily affect small arteries called 'store-operated' channels, suggesting a new class of drugs with fewer side effects. This discovery could lead to improved treatment options for heart disease and high blood pressure.
Researchers at Penn State have developed a compact freezer case using sound waves to substitute chemical refrigerants, reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The Navy has funded the project and is exploring its potential for distributed cooling systems on carriers.
A recent study suggests that dissolved organic matter in water absorbs UV-B, protecting 85% of amphibian habitats. The timing of breeding also plays a crucial role, with early breeding reducing UV-B exposure in certain regions.
Researchers developed a mouse model to study L1 retrotransposition, a process that can cause mutations in genes. The study found that the mouse model mimics human L1 behavior and could aid in understanding how genes function and potentially lead to genetic therapies.
Researchers identified a new compound, thiazolidinone, that effectively inhibits CFTR-mediated chloride secretion, reducing excess intestinal fluid secretion in mice with secretory diarrhea. The study's findings suggest that this compound may be useful in treating secretory diarrhea linked to the cystic fibrosis gene.
A recent study using the Environmental Exposure Unit (EEU) technology compared the efficacy of Xyzal and NeoClarityn in controlling seasonal allergic rhinitis symptoms. The results showed that Xyzal was more effective than NeoClarityn in relieving major symptoms, with a faster onset of action and longer duration of relief.
The SCORE trial shows that sigmoidoscopy screening can reduce colorectal cancer incidence and mortality, with a high yield of advanced lesions and early cancers. The procedure is relatively safe, with low rates of perforation and hemorrhage.
OHSU researchers identified a critical role of major histocompatibility complex (MHC) molecules in training T-cells to combat infections. The discovery may lead to the development of more effective vaccines and immune system boosting strategies for susceptible populations, such as the elderly.
A study by Dr. Ron Randel found that fall-born Brahman bulls take longer to reach sexual maturity than spring-born bulls, delaying breeding by up to 39 days. This delay has little impact on long-term reproductive efficiency, but affects commercial cattle producers who buy young bulls for early use.
Researchers developed new compounds to optimize apoptosis-inducing ability of celecoxib, a COX-2 inhibitor. They found that the structural features required for apoptosis induction differ from those required for COX-2 inhibition.
Climate change affects ocean's sequestration capacity, with the Atlantic Ocean proving more effective at storing carbon dioxide. The impact is most pronounced in the Atlantic, where rising sea surface temperatures slow down thermohaline circulation and reduce mixing, exacerbating the problem.
A CWRU anthropologist has discovered a distinct pattern of human adaptation to high-altitude hypoxia among the Ambaras people in Ethiopia, who have normal sea-level hemoglobin and oxygen saturations. This finding suggests that there are three patterns of adaptation to high-altitude living among indigenous populations.
A study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that larger portion sizes result in consuming 30% more calories, regardless of individual eating habits. This suggests that portion control is crucial for weight management and suggests alternatives like low-calorie vegetables and broth-based soups.
A new genetic test can identify patients with diabetes at high risk for heart disease, potentially saving lives through early intervention. Researchers analyzed the haptoglobin gene in a population-based study and found that individuals with one form of the gene were five times more likely to develop heart disease.
Researchers have discovered that angiopoietin-1 can restore faulty blood vessel architecture in mice by promoting sprouting, survival, and stability of new vessels. This study highlights the importance of pericytes in maintaining normal vessel stability and may lead to new treatments for diseases like diabetic retinopathy.
A study found that long-term oral contraceptive use is associated with a 33% increase in breast cancer risk among women with BRCA1 mutations, particularly those who started using contraceptives before age 30. In contrast, no significant increase in breast cancer risk was observed in women with BRCA2 mutations.
The US government has signed a bill to curb the introduction of unwanted aquatic organisms in ballast water. A template for national wetland restoration efforts is also being promoted, following Oregon's success in saving native salmon runs. Ozone treatment and biocide methods are being explored as cost-effective solutions.
A recent study found that alternative cigarettes like bidis and additive-free tobacco can deliver high levels of nicotine and other toxins, similar to conventional cigarettes. The study's results suggest that these products may pose a significant health risk to adolescents and young adults.
Researchers developed a system to study blood vessel development without mural cells, revealing that angiopoietin-1 partially restores large vessel structure. The study suggests Ang1 is crucial for normal vessel stability and highlights the importance of pericytes in maintaining vascular networks.
Researchers used stable isotope assessment to determine that most late-season moths in the Cotton Belt are developing on non-cotton plants like corn, providing a major refuge for H. zea moths and helping to control pesticide-resistant pests.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine conducted a study on combined PET-CT for detecting ovarian cancer, finding that the combination showed high sensitivity (73.6%) and specificity (100%) rates. This improved detection accuracy compared to using PET scans alone.
Researchers develop a novel method to assemble nanoparticles using non-uniform AC electric fields, allowing for the creation of ordered structures with desired properties. This process can be used to manufacture nanoscale tools and devices, including sensors and photonic devices.
Researchers found that a mixture of oxygen and carbon dioxide improves oxygen delivery to the brain, decreasing risk of permanent brain damage. The new treatment may reduce symptoms and improve outcomes for severely poisoned patients.
A study published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute found that higher levels of the molecule HDM2 are associated with a better prognosis in patients with melanoma. Patients with high levels of HDM2 lived significantly longer after treatment than those with low levels, even ten years after diagnosis.
A new theory proposes that evolutionary pressures drove human traits beneficial to economic growth, such as valuing high-quality offspring. The transition from hunter-gatherer tribes to nuclear families with intergenerational links accelerated this process.
The research found that Helicobacter pylori can use hydrogen as an energy source, increasing its colonization in mice. The study showed that mice stomachs contained sufficient hydrogen to support the growth of H. pylori.
Researchers have developed a reusable multi-agent infrastructure called RETSINA, which enables teams of intelligent agents to work together autonomously. This allows for more efficient collaboration among humans and agents in joint mission planning and execution.
The University of Washington has established a $9 million center to study the underlying causes of hepatitis-induced liver disease. The center brings together experts in viral hepatitis, liver disease, and transplantation to investigate gene and protein expression in liver cells.
A UC Riverside study of 2,055 brown recluse spiders in a Kansas home found no bites on occupants. The study suggests that many skin lesions misdiagnosed as 'brown recluse spider bites' are actually caused by other factors like infections or bug bites.
Recent studies have found that hospitalists provide better patient outcomes in terms of reduced costs, shorter hospital stays, and lower short-term mortality rates compared to non-hospitalist physicians. The benefits of hospitalist care became evident only after the second year of both studies, highlighting the importance of experience...
Researchers have successfully determined the structure of a biological clock protein called KaiC in blue-green algae, shedding light on internal clock mechanisms. The protein's ring-like hexagonal structure suggests it interacts directly with DNA, potentially regulating gene expression and controlling the wake-sleep cycle.
A geophysicist has developed a cost-effective method for finding underground contaminants by measuring voltage between metal spikes inserted into the ground. The technique shows promise in detecting organic compounds like cancer-causing substances that don't conduct electricity, potentially streamlining remediation processes.
Grape seed extract enhanced wound healing in mice and human skin cells by promoting epidermal tissue formation and connective tissue deposition. It also increased levels of VEGF, a compound that helps rebuild blood vessels.
Engineers mimic nature's solution to a classic problem in aerospace engineering by recreating part of a horse bone's unique structure. The biomimetic plate pushes stresses away from holes, resulting in increased strength and reduced weight.
Arjun Heimsath and Hany Farid developed a new method to create 3D models of remote regions using 2D photographs, making it easier for researchers to predict landslides and erosion rates. The technique has limitations, such as requiring clear images of the ground surface and a good point of view.
A study by Ohio State University researchers found three genes associated with regulating thyroid hormones in the hypothalamus, which controls the hamster's reproductive cycle. The genes were active in hamsters kept in both long and short days, enabling them to respond to seasonal changes.
Researchers used PET scans to explore brain activity while watching actors tell stories with sad and neutral tones. The study found that brain regions associated with emotional processing were activated when the story content and actor's expression matched, but suppressed when they didn't.
Researchers studying sex workers on the US-Mexico border found that many have unprotected sex with tourists and truck drivers from the Midwest. The study highlights the potential for these interactions to spread HIV/AIDS among vulnerable populations.
The University of California Riverside has awarded 40 new scholarships to academically talented students from low-income families. The scholarships aim to provide comprehensive support, including financial aid, academic excellence workshops, and career opportunities, to help students persist in their studies.
The Office of Naval Research developed a new warhead that combines kinetic energy with chemical reactions to destroy targets. The warhead uses advanced composite materials and has shown improved structural damage and lethal radius in testing.
The COSEE network promotes better understanding of ocean's role in global environmental cycles and processes. Ocean science researchers will work with educators to develop high-quality educational materials, increasing access to ocean education for underrepresented groups.
Research at Ohio State University found that listening to music while exercising increased walking distance by an average of 445 feet among patients with severe lung disease. The study suggests that music can help distract from physical symptoms and improve overall fitness levels, leading to better independence in daily activities.
The Office of Naval Research (ONR) is developing an Advanced Multi-Function Radio-Frequency Concept (AMRF-C) antenna aperture that can integrate radar and communications functions, reducing the need for separate antennas and increasing stealth.
A two-year study found that hospitalists reduced average patient stays by half a day, resulting in $782 per-patient cost savings. Hospitalists also achieved lower short-term mortality rates, specifically a 37% reduction in 30-day mortality.
Physician participation in HMOs and IPAs has declined significantly, with 33% of specialists without HMO patients in 2001/2002. Kaiser Permanente stands out as the most stable employer for physicians, with higher satisfaction rates compared to other managed care networks.
Scientists created a new material that exhibits fractal behavior in its magnetic field, leading to the discovery of 'fractal cluster glass'. This phenomenon could revolutionize the design of electronic devices in the future, as smaller devices may no longer behave like traditional three-dimensional objects.
Researchers studied patients' understanding of living wills, finding significant differences in interpretation, and found that certain ventilator modes can worsen sleep quality. Inspiratory muscle training also improved respiratory function in patients with severe COPD.
A team of scientists has developed a laboratory system to study the virus in its latent stage, discovering genes that may give it stealth capabilities. This could lead to the development of new drugs to clear the virus from infected individuals.
A Purdue University psychology professor's research reveals infants can comprehend words and grammar from a young age, defying the common notion of gradual learning. By analyzing infant responses to language experiments, Hollich's study shows that babies as young as 5 months old demonstrate surprising linguistic savvy.
Researchers used satellite data to identify environments associated with human risk of hantavirus infection, finding that woody plants dominated high-risk sites. The study provides a way to monitor the environment for infectious disease risks and better understand why outbreaks happen where they do.
The genome analysis reveals complex metabolism and diverse pathways, including aromatic compound breakdown and novel transport capabilities. P. putida has great potential for bioremediation, promoting plant growth, and fighting plant diseases.