Researchers at USC's Doheny Retina Institute have made significant progress with a permanent retinal prosthesis, designed to restore vision to patients with retinitis pigmentosa and macular degeneration. The device has been implanted in the first patient as part of an FDA-approved trial.
A study by researchers at Indiana University found that self-esteem plays a significant role in the loss of virginity among adolescents. Young girls with high self-esteem were less likely to engage in early sexual activity, while young boys with high self-esteem were more likely to report being sexually active.
A UMass anthropologist has investigated the dental development of an extinct primate species, revealing that these early primates developed teeth rapidly to adapt to their environment. The study found that these ancient lemurs had highly developed teeth by birth, allowing them to survive on solid food shortly after birth.
Researchers found that premenopausal women who underwent mastectomy alone had similar survival outcomes regardless of the menstrual cycle phase. In contrast, those who received adjuvant oophorectomy and tamoxifen during the luteal phase experienced better disease-free and overall survival rates. Additionally, studies suggest socioecono...
A long-term follow-up study found that only four out of 166 children treated with tacrolimus developed chronic rejection. The patients who experienced rejection had been off immunosuppression for extended periods due to life-threatening infections or complications, but were able to recover once they resumed normal dosages.
Researchers at UMass Amherst used computer simulations to predict that microwaves can be used to separate chemicals in sponge-like solids, leading to energy-efficient technologies. The study found that it is possible to maintain two chemicals at different temperatures using microwave radiation.
Scientists have discovered that Dlx genes are required for normal mammalian limb development, suggesting homologous genes are responsible for the development of human limbs. The study also identifies two genes, Dlx5 and Dlx6, as candidate genes for split-hand/split-foot malformation (SHFM), a devastating congenital disorder.
The study found that patients given beta-blockers before bypass surgery had a 30-day mortality rate of 2.8%, compared to 3.4% for those not receiving the drug. The researchers also observed fewer instances of kidney problems and mechanical ventilation time in patients taking beta-blockers.
A new study found that error encouragement training improves performance for individuals with higher intelligence, openness to experience, and conscientiousness. In contrast, those with lower abilities benefit from error-avoidance training, which leads to higher self-confidence and better performance.
Researchers at Stanford Medicine have identified hundreds of new genes involved in multiple sclerosis (MS) progression. The study found genes expressed differently in acute and chronic attacks, including those associated with pregnancy and allergic responses, which could lead to new treatment strategies.
The University of Washington has been awarded a $16 million National Science Foundation grant to establish a center for materials and devices in information technology research. The center will receive funding over five years, with the potential for more than twice that amount over 10 years.
A new experimental approach has been developed to treat allergic diseases, with scientists creating a genetically engineered molecule called GE2 that connects two receptors on key immune system cells. The molecule short-circuits allergic reactions, including asthma and anaphylaxis, by cross-linking receptor molecules.
Researchers found that genistein in dietary supplements negates the tumor-fighting effects of tamoxifen for women with estrogen-dependent breast cancer. High doses of isoflavones, commonly used in US supplements, can stimulate breast cancer growth.
Researchers at UT Southwestern and M.D. Anderson have identified eight genes on chromosome 3 that act as tumor suppressors in lung cancer. These genes were found to inhibit tumor growth and induce cell death in human lung cancer cells, suggesting a potential new approach for treating the disease.
A new $4 million grant from the NIH will explore four sets of factors contributing to childhood stuttering, including language function, epidemiology, motor/physiological functions, and psychological factors. Researchers hope to identify risk factors and predictors for recovery.
The Odor Index is a new tool that relates the concentration of odorants to human perception, providing a comparative scale for measuring odors. The technology has shown significant reductions in odors in wastewater treatment plants and other industries.
A new study suggests that liver transplant matching based on histocompatibility could reduce disease recurrence in patients with hepatitis C and primary biliary cirrhosis. The University of Pittsburgh study analyzed data from over 3,000 liver transplants and found that a match significantly decreases the incidence of acute and chronic ...
Researchers predict that El Niño could lead to increased precipitation in the Southwest, alleviating water shortages and reducing wildfire danger. The region has been experiencing severe drought conditions, with reservoirs struggling to meet demand.
A recent study found that revealing students' papers would be run through plagiarism-detection software significantly deterred students from plagiarizing. Existing software's success rate is high enough to merit use in various classroom situations.
Researchers found the warmest portion of a hurricane's eye is approximately 3.5 miles high, corresponding to falling pressure and destructive winds. The data provided a comprehensive 3D image of the inner core, revealing how heat from rising air powers the storm.
Researchers may use a super-fast laser pulse to observe and control nuclear reactions, potentially slowing or accelerating fission. The lasetron concept could also briefly produce massive magnetic fields, opening new experiments in astrophysics.
Researchers develop mouse model of sporadic and familial human meningioma, demonstrating NF2 loss is sufficient for tumor formation. The study provides novel insight into the role of the NF2 gene in meningioma development and enables testing of potential therapies.
A randomized controlled trial found that culturally and linguistically suitable outreach and direct mail interventions increased Pap testing rates among Chinese-American women. The study suggests these interventions can help reduce racial and ethnic health disparities in cervical cancer screening.
The Johns Hopkins team has successfully transplanted kidneys from incompatible donors using a filtering technique, achieving a 93% success rate. The patients underwent plasmapheresis treatments and medication to prevent antibody re-emergence, allowing them to receive organs from donors of any blood type.
The Stanford study found that the quality of care received by depressed patients has significantly improved since the introduction of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) in 1988. The study also revealed a notable increase in physician visits for depression, largely driven by the adoption of SSRIs.
Researchers have discovered a genetic mutation in English mastiffs that causes retinal dysfunction and degeneration, mirroring human dominant retinitis pigmentosa. The study aims to find treatments and cures for inherited forms of blindness in humans by testing therapies first in dogs.
Researchers have found a combination therapy of lamivudine and hepatitis B immune globulin significantly reduces HBV infection recurrence after liver transplant, with one-year and three-year survival rates of 92% and 81%, respectively. This breakthrough treatment offers hope for patients with chronic HBV cirrhosis.
Researchers found high concentrations of small ice crystals at the top of Hurricane Humberto, reflecting more sunlight and creating a temperature contrast that may contribute to its strength. The discovery is being entered into computer models to improve hurricane predictions.
Using a powerful supercomputer, researchers simulated materials' strength and behavior, gaining insights into fracture, work hardening, and customized properties. The study enables better understanding of earthquakes and design of new materials to resist brittle fracture.
A synthetic form of bacterial DNA has been shown to reduce the harmful effects of Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) in mice while enhancing the immune system. The study's findings suggest that IBD patients may be able to take an oral form of this compound once a week to prevent flare-up periods typical of the disease.
Researchers found that 5-month-old infants can determine the number of collective entities, moving groups of items, when non-numerical factors are controlled. This suggests that infants can represent numbers and perform simple arithmetic operations, challenging existing theories about mathematical knowledge development.
Researchers at Brookhaven National Laboratory have developed a new method for producing electrodes, allowing for the creation of novel alloy compositions and improving electrochemical reaction rates. The method uses hydrogen to form nanocomposite materials, making it more effective and practical than traditional methods.
A recent study found that CellCept therapy can effectively reverse kidney damage and improve graft survival in patients with chronic kidney function decline. The results showed a significant increase in kidney function reversal or stabilization in patients treated with CellCept compared to those on cyclosporine.
A new type of dendritic cell has been found to prevent diabetes in mice by causing T cells to die rapidly. In a study, researchers treated mice with this special dendritic cell and found that half remained diabetes-free at one year.
A Yale research team proposes that serotonin neurons play a crucial role in detecting carbon dioxide levels during sleep and triggering arousal. This response is absent in infants who die of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS), potentially leading to fatal consequences. The study's findings shed new light on the underlying causes of SIDS.
Researchers have identified a human gene that appears to be the counterpart to the mouse Mater gene, essential for fertilized egg development. The discovery may lead to new approaches in studying and treating female infertility, as well as understanding the role of the immune system in premature ovarian failure.
Women in jail have high HIV infection rates, with specific risk factors identified as substance abuse disorders and severe mental illness. An HIV/AIDS education program in a correctional setting has shown promise in reducing the spread of HIV in communities.
Scientists have made a breakthrough in understanding the body's rejection of transplanted organs. Memory T cells were found to trigger rejection, even when other immune cells are disabled. This discovery may lead to new treatments that block memory T cell function and improve organ transplant success rates.
A new study found that patients receiving the drug Thymoglobulin had two and half times fewer episodes of acute kidney rejection than those receiving Simulect. The study's findings are significant as they show a potential benefit for up to half of kidney transplants from cadavers.
A California-funded Sea Grant survey banned the sale of Caulerpa taxifolia, a fast-growing tropical seaweed, due to its invasive nature. Meanwhile, researchers used DNA technology to identify E. coli sources, tracing human and animal fecal pollution in Lake Michigan.
The Antiphospholipid Syndrome Collaborative Registry aims to enroll 2,000 patients over five years to better understand the disease, its causes, and treatment options. The registry will facilitate research, diagnosis, and development of diagnostic tests and treatments for antiphospholipid syndrome.
A US-Italian study found that women's fertility starts declining before age 30, but not necessarily their overall chance of pregnancy. Meanwhile, men's fertility also begins to decline in their late 30s, but the duration of the fertile window remains unchanged.
A small percentage of homeless individuals in San Francisco account for the majority of emergency department visits. These high users often have substance abuse and mental health problems, and are more likely to be younger, female, and Medicaid-insured.
A study published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal suggests that journals' practices for accelerating publication may be inconsistent. General internists rated articles from The Lancet and New England Journal of Medicine, finding case articles scored higher on importance, ease of applicability, and health outcomes than contr...
Researchers have discovered abnormal immune regulation and autoimmunity in children with a form of autism characterized by sudden regression. The study reveals distinct autoimmune features in the epithelium of the small bowel, which may contribute to bowel symptoms and cognitive regression in autistic children.
Scientists have successfully reproduced Hirano bodies in the lab using a novel method, opening doors to new studies of these structures. The discovery suggests that Hirano bodies may play a role in various diseases, including Alzheimer's, and could provide a key tool for investigations.
According to a University of Pittsburgh study, HIV patients who underwent liver transplantation for hepatitis C virus did not experience further progression of their HIV despite taking immune-suppressing anti-rejection drugs. The study found that all six surviving patients had undetectable HIV viral loads since their transplants.
Researchers at Texas A&M University have developed a nanotech control device that achieves six degrees of freedom for precise positioning in nanotechnology and telesurgery. The device eliminates mechanical contact and friction, improving accuracy and resolution, while decreasing manufacturing costs and increasing reliability.
Researchers found a link between polycystic ovary syndrome and increased coronary artery calcification, an early indicator of cardiovascular disease. Addressing insulin sensitivity and central obesity may reduce this risk in young women with PCOS.
Research in Italy has successfully engineered seedless eggplants using genetic modification, producing 30-35% more fruit than conventional varieties. The genetically modified eggplants have improved productivity, reduced cultivation costs, and can thrive in cooler conditions.
A recent study found that smoking cessation success rates are equally good with over-the-counter (OTC) or prescription nicotine replacement therapy (NRT). OTC NRT had higher abstinence rates at six weeks and six months compared to prescription NRT. The study suggests that removing the prescription status of NRT products may promote saf...
Researchers found that treated zeolite filters were effective in removing viruses and bacteria from drinking water, achieving 99% virus removal rates. The study suggests using zeolite filters as a low-cost solution for controlling the spread of diseases through contaminated wells.
A team of researchers from UC Davis has developed a simple model to predict the solubility of environmental contaminants in groundwater. The model uses hydrotalcites, layered compounds that can take up metals and other chemicals, to make predictions about contamination with chromium, carbon, iodine, and technetium isotopes.
A new study found that neoadjuvant therapy can significantly improve long-term survival rates for women with locally advanced breast cancer. The treatment allows for less drastic and breast-sparing surgery, increasing the chances of successful tumor downstaging and improved outcomes.
The NIH has granted $3.5 million in funding to four institutions to enhance their human embryonic stem cell (hESC) research infrastructure. The funds will support the expansion, testing, quality assurance, and distribution of existing cell lines, enabling basic scientists to access these cells for research.
A study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that high levels of homocysteine correlate with lower cognitive test scores and decreased cognitive function in the elderly. Higher plasma concentrations of folate and B-12 were associated with improved cognitive performance.
A study using satellite ocean color data has shed light on the spring bloom of phytoplankton in the North Atlantic, a critical factor in the carbon cycle and global warming. The research found that simple models can accurately predict the timing of the bloom, with plankton animals and bacteria playing a key role in its duration.
A new genetic adaptation allowed Yersinia pestis to be transmitted through the bite of an insect, a discovery that sheds light on the evolution of the plague bacterium. The enzyme PLD plays a critical role in the survival of Y. pestis in the midgut of fleas.
A gene mutation that affects antioxidant production is associated with a 50% increase in heart disease risk, even among those without traditional cardiovascular risk factors. Individuals carrying the mutation have an 80% higher risk of developing brain vessel disease.
Two studies found that hungry children are more likely to experience depression and suicidal thoughts, as well as lower academic performance. One study analyzed data from over 700 adolescents and found those living in food-insecure households were five times more likely to attempt suicide.