Researchers discovered that hibernating squirrels don't exhibit an immune response to bacteria when injected with lipopolysaccharide, but their temperature spikes when they awaken from hibernation to 'check' for infections. This suggests that animals may arouse from hibernation to monitor and combat pathogens in the body.
A retrospective review of 6 cases involving HIV-positive infants whose mothers did not know their own HIV status revealed incomplete application of guidelines. The authors recommend universal HIV testing and counselling to prevent perinatal transmission, while a commentary discusses 5 critical steps needed for prevention.
A recent study has identified eight chromosomal sites that may harbor genes for hand OA, with the strongest evidence found on chromosomes 7p and 11q. The research used a genome scan of Framingham participants and their offspring to investigate genetic linkages.
A study by McMillan and Larson found that rock climbing decreases vegetation diversity on cliffs, with only 4% as many vascular plant species on climbed faces. The researchers also discovered that climbing increases the proportion of non-native plants, which can outcompete native species for resources.
A recent Ohio State University survey found that two-thirds of pregnant women believe walking and sex can induce labor. However, experts say these methods may not be effective and could pose health risks to the mother and baby. The study's author emphasizes the importance of waiting for natural labor to begin.
A Canadian study found that heavy marijuana use is associated with decreased IQ scores, but light and former use are linked to modest gains. The research, which followed 70 subjects over several years, suggests that the effects of marijuana on intelligence may be more complex than previously thought.
Researchers found that a network of lay health advisers increased mammography use among rural black women over age 50 by 6 and 11 percent, respectively. The program's effectiveness in boosting breast cancer screening rates was demonstrated through data from the North Carolina Breast Cancer Screening Program.
Researchers found that asymmetry is evident in Taita thrush populations before decline, allowing for prediction of vulnerability. Asymmetry increased with habitat disturbance levels, but only certain populations showed a lower survival rate, highlighting the need for conservation action.
A study found that female injection drug users in Vancouver with high-risk behaviors like daily cocaine use and unsafe sex were more likely to convert to HIV. The authors emphasize the need for sex-specific prevention initiatives due to alarming rates of HIV infection among Aboriginal women, twice as high as in non-Aboriginal populations.
A team of researchers at the University of Pittsburgh has discovered a gene mutation responsible for hereditary gingival fibromatosis (HGF), a rare condition characterized by gum overgrowth. The discovery may lead to new therapies, including tissue engineering, and could have implications for treating common dental problems like period...
Researchers found that snakes relying on ambush foraging are more likely to be threatened due to habitat destruction and prey scarcity. The study identified six species not listed as threatened but with similar ecological traits, highlighting the need for closer management.
A study found that traditional floodplain forest restoration may decrease bird diversity, with some species preferring uncommon tree species. The researchers recommend replanting floodplain forests with rare and heavy-seeded trees to support a diverse avian community.
Ohio State University engineers designed a generic pipe adapter to diagnose and eliminate whistle noise in vehicle engines. The adapter reduces sound levels by up to 30 decibels, saving automakers time and money.
Researchers at UNC Chapel Hill have found a way to tap into the gene-silencing process RNA interference to identify key parts of its machinery. This breakthrough could lead to the development of new treatments for cancer and other serious illnesses.
New research reveals that Mexico's protected reserves for monarch butterflies are being destroyed due to increased timber harvesting, threatening the species' survival. Despite government protection decrees, logging has continued and even increased in some areas, with degradation tripling since 1986.
A recent study by Ohio State University found that the DentiPatch, a small adhesive patch containing lidocaine, delivers longer and deeper relief from dental pain. The patch's anesthetic effects last up to 45 minutes, whereas traditional gel-based treatments only last about a minute.
A recent study found that 26% of preschool children lived in three-generation households, with 39% having a history of maltreatment. The research also revealed that 32% of the young mothers were depressed. As these young mothers mature, role conflicts may arise between being a teenage daughter and a young mother.
Researchers discovered new genes that play a crucial role in the formation of oligodendrocytes, a type of cell responsible for transmitting nerve signals. The findings may lead to more accurate diagnosis and treatment of brain tumors, as well as insights into diseases such as multiple sclerosis.