A study conducted by researchers at Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health found that condom use and education can dramatically reduce the transmission of HIV in Thailand. The study also highlights the increasing role of injection drug use in spreading the disease, particularly among young men.
The study found a clear relationship between organic carbon and smectite clay minerals, suggesting that dissolved organic molecules are drawn into the crystal lattice where they are protected from oxidation. This process, known as adsorption, plays a crucial role in maintaining habitable conditions in the biosphere.
A NASA-funded study reveals that ancient South American forests hold the key to understanding US ecosystems before the industrial revolution. The study finds complex organic compounds as the main form of nitrogen in unpolluted ecosystems, contradicting previous beliefs about inorganic nitrogen.
A 40% higher risk of chromosomal anomalies was found for residents living close to landfill sites compared to those further away. The study suggests that proximity to landfill sites is associated with an increased risk of congenital chromosomal abnormalities.
Research by James Rodgers and Stephen Schwikert found that flush distances for motorboats were greater than those for personal watercraft (PWC), allowing for more effective protection of waterbirds. The study recommends customized buffer zones to protect vulnerable species, such as great white herons.
A study of 262 climbers found that three out of four healthy, recreational climbers have mild subclinical HAPE shortly after a modest climb. This suggests a significant risk of the disorder among climbers, highlighting the need for better markers and methods to identify individuals at risk.
The Selenium and Vitamin E Cancer Prevention Trial, or SELECT, is the largest-ever clinical trial for prostate cancer prevention. The study aims to investigate whether taking selenium and vitamin E supplements can prevent prostate cancer in men of all races and ethnic backgrounds.
Combining trastuzumab and ZD1839 has been shown to be more effective in inhibiting breast cancer cell growth than using either treatment alone. The findings suggest a potential new approach for treating multiple types of cancers, including those with HER2 and EGFR gene mutations.
Recent studies suggest that modulating glial inflammation may be an effective approach to delaying onset or slowing progression of neurodegeneration. New compounds described in a study selectively block production of IL-1B, iNOS and NO by activated glia without diminishing the production of other glial proteins.
A new combination of MabThera and standard chemotherapy has shown a significant increase in overall survival rate and complete remission rates in patients with aggressive non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. This treatment offers hope for improved outcomes in this increasingly common form of blood cancer.
Scientists at the University of Illinois have developed a family of fluorescent silicon nanoparticles in various sizes and colors, which can be used for electronic displays, flash memories, and biomedical imaging. The particles are photostable and bright, allowing for non-invasive detection and study of biological phenomena.
The study reveals the structure of edema factor, a toxin that causes fluid accumulation and disrupts immune function. The researchers found that calmodulin binds to edema factor, changing its shape and making it more potent, providing an ideal drug target for developing anti-anthrax drugs.
Researchers at Idaho National Laboratory are testing the effectiveness of ozone technology to sterilize mail by delivering high concentrations of ozone through potato conveyor belts. Preliminary results indicate that a 60-minute exposure to high levels of ozone inactivates anthrax spores, providing a potential tool against terrorism.
Researchers at UC Riverside have identified a chicken chemokine, cCAF, that plays a critical role in wound healing and may help accelerate the process in humans. The discovery has potential for treating wounds in diabetics, people with pressure ulcers, and those with bedsores.
Researchers discover antimicrobial peptides in plants and animals, which target bacterial membranes to defend against infections. The study reveals these molecules provide a natural solution to combat growing antibiotic resistance.
A Princeton University study reveals that South American forests offer a glimpse into pre-industrial US ecosystems, showing complex organic compounds as the main form of nitrogen in unpolluted ecosystems. The findings suggest that high levels of inorganic nitrogen in the US are mainly due to acid rain and agricultural fertilizers.
Researchers found that severe head injury survivors can learn implicitly, despite impaired explicit learning and memory. This discovery holds promise for new approaches to remediation for CHI survivors, who often struggle with cognitive impairments.
The Society for Women's Health Research has published proceedings from its Second Annual Conference on Sex and Gene Expression. The conference explored topics such as sex differences in embryonic development, cognitive functions, and mitochondrial DNA. Researchers from various backgrounds shared their findings contributing to the emerg...
Researchers found vitamin C prevents inhibition of gap-junction intercellular communication induced by hydrogen peroxide. However, quercetin in apples has even stronger anticancer activity than vitamin C.
Researchers have identified aquaporin-1 protein's role in regulating water movement into and out of cells, a fundamental requirement for life. In a study comparing normal lungs to those without the protein, scientists found increased airway wall thickness and fluid leakage in those with aquaporin-1.
A multi-center study led by Dr. Jay Iams found that home uterine monitoring has no clinical value in predicting early birth, despite its widespread use for high-risk women. The study's results reinforce previous findings that ambulatory monitors are not more effective than other diagnostic tools or surveillance programs.
A recent study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that predicting preterm birth remains challenging due to low predictive value of current tests such as ultrasound and fetal fibronectin. The study suggests that prematurity in America is on the rise, with a 23% increase in premature births since the 1980s.
A recent study published in Hormone Research found that individuals born with a micropenis who were raised as males reported higher satisfaction rates and more positive body image compared to those raised female. The study also highlighted the importance of testosterone replacement therapy for male participants.
A new study reveals that data, materials, and information are often kept secret in academic genetics, hindering scientific progress. The survey found that 47% of geneticists were denied access to resources at least once in the past three years.
Researchers have discovered that specific cellular mechanisms confer resistance to cancer in rats, allowing them to develop pre-cancerous lesions but then return to normal. The study aims to identify genes involved in this resistance, which could lead to breakthroughs in human cancer prevention and therapy.
Researchers at the University of Toronto have developed a novel biofiltration technique that uses bacteria to eliminate odors from pulp mill gas streams. The new technology operates at higher temperatures than existing methods, making it more cost-effective and environmentally friendly.
Researchers found that limiting scar tissue formation enables neurons to regrow and reconnect, leading to substantial recovery of function. This approach suggests potential for therapies to eliminate existing scar tissue at injury sites.
The hospitalist model of inpatient care has achieved many attributes of other medical specialties and is expected to become the dominant model. Studies have shown significant decreases in hospital costs and lengths of stay, with no negative impact on quality measures.
A new study by Frank et al. investigated the relationship between female physicians' personal diet-related habits and their nutrition counseling practices. The findings suggest that physicians who have intentionally altered their own diets are more likely to counsel their patients about nutrition and weight.
The NIH/Office of the Director's panel endorses ERCP for diagnosing suspected ampullary cancers and treating conditions like symptomatic gallstone disease, but emphasizes caution due to potential complications such as pancreatitis.
After severe droughts, wading bird populations surge due to changes in fish populations and nutrient cycles, according to University of Florida researchers. This phenomenon, known as 'pulsed productivity,' occurs worldwide among diverse wading bird species.
A study of 38 children with sickle cell disease found that zinc supplementation significantly increased rates of growth in height and sitting height after 12 months. The treatment reversed growth deficits and delayed development, unlike the control group which showed gradual growth failure characteristic of SCD.
Researchers found that people unconsciously transfer traits from speakers to other humans and even inanimate objects. Using psychology students as volunteers, the study confirmed that spontaneous trait transference is an automatic brain process.
A new method developed by Purdue University's chemical engineers uses artificial intelligence to simultaneously test thousands of formulations, drastically speeding up the discovery process. The technique has the potential to significantly improve catalyst performance and result in substantial economic benefits.
A Yale researcher found that men who witnessed combat are at risk for various current adverse outcomes, including post-traumatic stress disorder and job loss. The study suggests that providing quality mental health care and social services to veterans could mitigate these effects.
A study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition reveals that 67% of convalescent home patients have low serum albumin levels indicative of severe malnutrition. Malnourished patients are also more likely to experience depression and dehydration, highlighting the need for improved nutrition care.
The AAAS Science Journalism Awards recognize outstanding science reporting across various categories. This year's winners include Scott Shane of The Baltimore Sun for his special series on a Johns Hopkins University program to bring much-needed vitamins to the people of Nepal, and Richard Monastersky of The Chronicle of Higher Educatio...
Researchers discovered increased brain activity involving the superior temporal gyrus and inferior parietal cortex when subjects imitated others or were imitated. This suggests that imitation may be linked to empathy and play a crucial role in learning and cultural transmission.
The Look AHEAD trial will examine the effects of a lifestyle intervention program on cardiovascular health in people with type 2 diabetes. The study, which began screening participants in July, aims to enroll 5,000 volunteers and follow them for up to 11.5 years.
A study on Toronto's 'John School' program for male offenders found that 42% of participants were more likely to admit to having a sex problem and 73% admitted guilt. However, the program's results may not be representative of those who use prostitutes in Toronto.
Researchers used molecular scissors to alter the sugar coats of cancer cells, promoting tumor growth with one fragment and inhibiting it with another. This discovery could lead to targeted cancer treatments by exploiting the biological balancing act between different sugar fragments and signaling molecules.
A Canadian study analyzed 19,265 infant deaths in 17 NICUs between 1996 and 1997, finding that common causes of death were birth at a different hospital, congenital anomalies, infection, and hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy. The risk-adjusted mortality rates varied significantly among hospitals.
A study by Judith Langer found that teachers' skills in classroom instruction, such as skill instruction and connections, contribute to higher literacy achievement levels. Effective teaching practices include using multiple approaches, connecting texts to life, and creating an engaging learning environment.
Researchers discovered that Nox1 enzyme generates reactive oxygen molecules that trigger angiogenesis and tumor growth. Inhibiting Nox1 activity or reducing hydrogen peroxide levels may decrease cancer cell growth and increase sensitivity to chemotherapy.
The article reviews the possible psychopharmacologic effect of several nutrients on mood and behaviour. Key findings include the potential mild antidepressant effects of SAMe, folic acid, and tryptophan, as well as the relation between carbohydrate consumption and sedation.
Researchers at Vanderbilt University Medical Center found that combining Herceptin with Iressa reduces tumor cell death and tumor size in HER2-overexpressing breast cancers. The clinical trial will enroll 150 patients and aims to shrink tumors with minimal side effects.
A new study has discovered subtle normal appearing brain tissue changes in first-degree relatives of patients with familial and sporadic Multiple Sclerosis (MS). These changes were not detectable using conventional MRI, but a new test called magnetization transfer imaging revealed the damage.
A study found that alcoholic women exhibit impaired working memory and visuospatial abilities, which remain significant even after abstinence. The researchers also discovered that female hormones may offer some protection against these impairments.
Scientists have identified a specific gene, RNASEL, in the HPC1 region linked to hereditary prostate cancer in some families. The study found mutations that inactivate this cellular self-destruct mechanism, explaining why some prostate cells become cancerous.
Research shows that social hierarchy influences brain function related to cocaine addiction in non-human primates. Dominant monkeys exhibit reduced dopamine levels and lower likelihood of abusing cocaine after being housed in social groups.
Researchers have developed a gene therapy using human blood outgrowth endothelial cells to treat hemophilia A. The treatment, which has shown long-term attainment of robust levels of factor VIII, is promising and may pave the way for testing in humans.
A VA study found that opportunistic screening for diabetes is likely more cost-effective and can be easily integrated into typical office visits. The approach takes advantage of the doctor-patient relationship, promoting better follow-up care for patients at risk of diabetes.
A study by Scott Saunders and colleagues suggests that heparan sulfate proteoglycans (HSPGs) help regulate morphogen gradients, influencing cell development and differentiation. HSPGs may also play a role in the formation of complex bone structures and organs.
Economist Robert Moffitt has received a $1.3 million MERIT award to investigate the relationship between welfare reform and out-of-wedlock childbearing, exploring potential factors beyond just welfare benefits.
The Gemini Observatory has dedicated its second telescope, Gemini South, marking a decade of work by hundreds of people to build two advanced 8-meter instruments. Astronomers in the US and around the world now have access to unprecedented sky coverage.
A University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill study found that new safety regulations adopted in 1996 contributed to a 22% decline in serious injuries at childcare centers and a 31% drop in licensed home injuries. The decline coincided with improved playground safety features and better supervision.
Professor Ramanathan recognized for his groundbreaking studies on clouds, aerosols, and greenhouse gases in the earth's climate system. His work has significantly advanced our understanding of radiative feedbacks in climate change and ocean temperature regulation.
Rockefeller University scientists have solved the three-dimensional structure of a type of chloride channel called ClC, providing new insights into its mechanism and selectivity features. The research findings are crucial for developing drugs to target ion channel impairments linked to heritable diseases such as cystic fibrosis.
A new study has found that the medication modafinil can effectively alleviate fatigue in patients with multiple sclerosis. The drug was shown to improve symptoms in 75-90% of patients, with significant benefits reported at a dosage of 200mg per day.
Researchers found that single neurons in a brain region reacted to specific features, conveying detailed information about the diagnostic features of categories. The monkeys' brains used these learned features to recognize matching faces, demonstrating how neural training sharpens perception and enables the brain to encode and interpre...