A new study found that doctors who received training in communication skills showed significantly more positive attitudes towards psychosocial issues and exhibited patient-centered behavior. The results suggest that a three-day course can make a lasting impact on doctors' communication styles, leading to better patient outcomes.
University of Washington cosmologist Craig Hogan believes new experiments could shed light on subatomic particles called gravitons, potentially uniting quantum mechanics and relativity. These advancements might also provide clues to the holographic principle, which suggests everything in 3D can be specified by information in 2D.
A study of nearly 1,900 air travelers found that the percentage of people experiencing stress while flying increased from 60% to 81% since 9/11. Post-9/11 fliers are more focused on personal safety and security, with women being slightly more concerned than men.
A study suggests that insulin can suppress a pro-inflammatory transcription factor that promotes clot formation in blood vessels. Insulin infusion reduced levels of tissue factor and plasminogen activator inhibitor-1, key players in the development of human and mouse atherosclerosis.
Scientists identified a protein called RIN4 that bridges between bacterial pathogens and plant disease resistance proteins, allowing pathogens to evade the host's defenses. The discovery adds new knowledge to how bacterial pathogens target plant molecular machinery to make it more hospitable.
Researchers tracked extinct brown bears using stable isotope data, finding a separate population in Eurasia. The study suggests that competition between brown and short-faced bears was not the primary factor in their extinction.
A new radiotherapy technique delivered during surgery shows promising results in preventing breast cancer recurrence and improving cosmetic outcomes. The 'one stop shop' approach may be more effective and accessible than traditional treatment, especially for women in developing countries.
A new study by researchers at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center has identified gamma delta T cells as a crucial component of the immune response to tuberculosis infection. The study found that these white blood cells can develop memory and rapidly respond to infection, blurring the lines between innate and acquired immunity.
A new study found that classrooms where students used fewer avoidance strategies were more likely to have teachers who emphasized understanding, effort, and enjoyment. Teachers in these 'mastery-oriented' classrooms helped students build understanding, provided motivational support, and modeled their own thinking processes.
A genetic test for a cell-proliferation enzyme variant may predict poorer outcomes in children with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia, prompting individualized treatment approaches. The study found that children homozygous for the triple repeat were four times more likely to have a poor outcome.
A touch screen questionnaire found that breast cancer patients experience similar levels of adverse side-effects from chemotherapy, regardless of age. The study also revealed that older women are more susceptible to fatigue, anorexia, weight loss, and mouth ulcers during treatment.
Children who grow up in risky families often suffer lifelong health problems, including cancer, heart disease, and mental health issues. The study found a pattern of serious long-term health consequences for children in homes marked by conflict and aggression.
A University of Illinois study found that sunlight and PCB exposure enhance the development of non-melanoma skin cancer on parts of the body not directly exposed to the sun. Mice exposed to both sunlight and PCBs developed tumors, while those with only PCB exposure did not.
The South African government is under pressure to implement a national program against vertical transmission of HIV from mothers to children. Key researchers are calling for increased investment in antiretroviral treatment and support to improve public health outcomes.
The Emory study uses the COGNIShunt device to drain off toxins from the cerebrospinal fluid, a potential breakthrough in treating Alzheimer's disease. The 18-month trial aims to assess the effectiveness of the treatment and its impact on patients' symptoms.
A newly discovered dinosaur, Liaoceratops yanzigouensis, has provided valuable insights into the evolution of horned dinosaurs. Weighing only about seven pounds, it had rudimentary horns and a frill, unlike its larger cousin Triceratops.
A researcher argues that the South is unfairly burdened with negative characteristics, such as racism and poverty, while the rest of America is viewed as more progressive. Historians' omission of Northern slavery from national narratives has contributed to this dichotomy.
The Howard Hughes Medical Institute has awarded a four-year grant of $2 million to the European Molecular Biology Organization. The grant supports six scientists from the Czech Republic, Hungary and Poland early in their careers, linking them with EMBO's Young Investigator Programme.
Researchers at University College London have developed a non-invasive method to detect breast cancer spread using white light. The technique involves feeding harmless light pulses through a thin fibre onto the tissue surface, which is then analysed on a portable computer to compare with previous examples of normal and cancerous tissue.
Duke University cardiologists report that DX-9065a, an experimental anti-coagulant, has cleared another hurdle in becoming a potential new treatment for patients with coronary artery disease. The agent inhibits Factor Xa, preventing blood clot formation earlier in the coagulation process.
A new fossil discovery in Ethiopia indicates that Homo erectus was a single, widespread species, rather than two separate ones. The 1 million-year-old fossil found in the Middle Awash region of Ethiopia is similar to other Homo erectus fossils from Asia and Africa.
The study reveals that female mice develop cardiac hypertrophy when estrogen is blocked, mimicking human conditions. The discovery could lead to a better understanding of the molecular signals causing heart enlargement and potential ways to prevent or reverse it.
Robert Eisenman, a leading oncogene expert, has made significant contributions to understanding how normal cells become cancerous and impacted studies of AIDS and other diseases. He will receive the award at the AACR annual meeting in San Francisco.
A study found that surgeons rarely offer women a choice between mastectomy and breast-conserving surgery, despite medical appropriateness. Women's perceptions of receiving a choice differ significantly from surgeons' perceptions, with female surgeons focusing on security and male surgeons prioritizing femininity.
Recent improvements in hormonal therapy and understanding of molecular mechanisms indicate that hormone therapy is more effective than chemotherapy in treating early breast cancer. The use of GnRH antagonists and aromatase inhibitors holds promise for treating younger women and post-menopausal patients, respectively.
The EMBO Young Investigator Programme has received a $2 million grant from the Howard Hughes Medical Institute to support young researchers in Central Europe. The programme provides financial and networking opportunities to promote Europe's most promising young life sciences researchers.
A five-year study will analyze how nursing staffs are organized in 160 US hospitals to improve patient care quality. Researchers will examine nurses' experiences, job satisfaction, and relationships with healthcare professionals.
A recent study suggests that higher carbon dioxide levels could lead to an increase in pollen production, resulting in more severe allergies. This shift may also alter competitive relationships among plants and favor the growth of weedy species.
A team of researchers is tracking the health of rescue dogs and their handlers who searched at the World Trade Center and Pentagon. The study aims to identify potential long-term consequences, including cancer and mental health issues, and provide assistance to those affected.
Researchers found that women who received predictive genetic testing for hereditary breast and ovarian cancer took practical measures, such as regular medical exams, rather than experiencing significant distress. About 10% opted for prophylactic mastectomy, while 37% had already undergone oophorectomy before testing.
Scientists at MGH discover herceptin has additional antitumor properties by targeting multiple factors that maintain tumor blood supply, slowing growth and prolonging survival in animal models.
Researchers developed an easy and affordable way to screen families for underlying genetic mutations that predispose them to developing breast cancer. The new test can indicate the presence of mutations in breast cancer genes in 50% of cases, potentially even more.
A new million-year-old skull found in Ethiopia contradicts recent suggestions of a split in the homolineage between Eurasiatic and African populations. The team's detailed analysis shows genetic continuity between populations, indicating movement and mobility between them, consistent with a single species Homo erectus.
Researchers used experiments and mathematical modeling to understand seismic wave behavior in the lower mantle, finding that mineral grain alignment causes unusual wave behavior. The study provides a window into Earth's inner workings and is an important step toward integrating seismology and geodynamics in the lower mantle.
Researchers at San Francisco State University found that 74% of women wearing perfume with a synthetic pheromone experienced an increase in sociosexual behaviors, including kissing, affection, and sexual intercourse. The study concluded that the pheromone increased the attractiveness of women to men, leading to more romantic behavior.
A new booklet aims to improve communication and support between doctors, patients, and partners in cancer care. The booklet was developed with input from patients and healthcare professionals, resulting in a user-friendly document that enhances patient understanding of research and clinical trials.
Researchers have developed a potent antiviral drug, HDP-CDV, that can block the replication of variola and orthopox viruses, including smallpox. The oral drug is 100 times more active than existing cidofovir and may be used to treat and prevent smallpox infections.
The International Breast Cancer Intervention Study (IBIS) found that tamoxifen reduced breast cancer incidence by 38% in healthy high-risk women. However, the benefits of tamoxifen for prevention in these women are unclear due to potential side effects and risks.
Under-sized infants who were exclusively breastfed for the first six months scored higher on IQ tests at five years of age compared to those with formula or solids introduced early. The study's findings also support the benefits of exclusive breastfeeding on cognitive development, without compromising growth.
Innovative programs addressing infant mortality, cancer screening and management, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, HIV/AIDS, and immunization show promise. Community-based initiatives, including churches, prisons, and barber shops, are key to building trust and addressing socio-economic factors contributing to health disparities.
A recent study by Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center found that marrow transplantation using an unrelated donor can be as successful as transplants with related donors for treatment of children with acute leukemia, particularly those under age 10. The study showed a 70% leukemia-free survival rate for patients in their first remiss...
A new intracoronary gene therapy has shown promising results in treating stable angina, a condition affecting nearly 7 million people nationwide. The study, led by the University of Vermont, involved 79 patients and demonstrated improved exercise ability compared to placebo groups.
A recent study demonstrated that including elderly patients in clinical trials for cancer treatments can produce useful results. The research found that two chemotherapy agents were effective and well-tolerated in metastatic breast cancer patients aged 60 or older.
Scientists have developed a test to identify breast abnormalities that are more likely to develop into breast cancer. The test analyzes biological signals in cells and can help doctors determine whether certain women should receive prophylactic anti-oestrogen treatment or more frequent screening.
The LIFE study found that losartan prevented more cardiovascular events and deaths than atenolol, even after similar reductions in blood pressure. Additionally, a second study showed losartan's effectiveness in reducing cardiovascular risk for patients with diabetes and left ventricular hypertrophy.
Researchers discovered a gene, atrogin-1, that plays a critical role in muscle atrophy. This protein triggers excessive protein breakdown, leading to muscle loss in various conditions, including space-related muscle wasting.
Researchers study composite materials made from small trees, finding they can be as strong or even stronger than solid wood due to uniform properties and improved durability. The team investigates molecular adhesion and chemistry under simulated conditions to enhance durability.
The study highlights the environmental and human health problems associated with industrial agriculture, such as soil degradation, water pollution, and increased antibiotic resistance. Sustainable agriculture methods offer a viable alternative, including reducing meat consumption to alleviate pressure on natural resources.
A new breast cancer vaccine called AutoVac has been developed to stimulate the patient's own immune system and induce specific killer cells and antibodies against HER-2, a protein overexpressed in many tumors. The phase I/II trial is currently underway with 27 patients with advanced breast cancer.
A study found that hormone replacement therapy use is associated with a higher risk of dense breasts and interval cancers. Women who had used HRT were more likely to have dense breasts and cancers detected between screenings.
Richard Monastersky and Diane Tennant have won the American Geophysical Union's 2002 David Perlman and Walter Sullivan Awards for Excellence in Science Journalism. Monastersky won for his news article on the Near Earth Asteroid Rendezvous mission, while Tennant won for her seven-part series on a local meteor impact story that spans 35 ...
Researchers at Penn find a cure for atrial fibrillation by targeting triggers in pulmonary veins, eliminating the need for pacemakers and medication. The new procedure has shown effectiveness and low complication rates, offering hope for patients with this serious condition.
A new study found that amiodarone is the most effective anti-arrhythmic drug for treating out-of-hospital cardiac arrest, with almost twice as many patients surviving compared to lidocaine. The ALIVE trial provides clear guidelines for emergency responders and hospital staff on the best treatment option.
Scientists discover mercury released into polar environments when sun rises, entering snowpack and potentially affecting food webs. The 'mercury sunrise' phenomenon contributes to increasing mercury levels in Arctic seabirds and marine mammals.
Two Johns Hopkins studies confirm the value of treadmill exercise tests in diagnosing heart disease before symptoms appear. Women with abnormal or inconclusive test results are up to 2.6 times more likely to die from cardiovascular disease, while men with similar test results are twice as likely to die from heart disease.
Researchers at Virginia Tech will develop plant-expressed antigens and adjuvants to create affordable, effective vaccines. The goal is to produce inexpensive, disease-fighting vaccines through plant-based delivery systems.
Researchers create model that accurately reproduces natural evolution and predicts how bacteria will become resistant to antibiotics. The model shows promise as a possible tool for creating new drugs that can evade bacterial adaptation.
A new study reveals that river traffic emits substantial nitrogen oxide, fine particulate matter, and sulfur oxides pollution, rivaling that of highways. The research, led by James J. Corbett, finds boat and ship emissions contribute significantly to regional air quality, particularly in the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area.
Researchers found men had a higher incidence of bacterial pneumonia, with complex cases and higher mortality rates compared to women. The burden of CAP is expected to increase substantially as the elderly population grows, with projected 750,000 cases in 2010 and 1 million by 2020.
A recent large-scale study found a strong association between infection with human papillomavirus (HPV) and risk of vaginal cancer. Women with vaginal cancer were more likely to have been exposed to HPV-16, which causes genital warts.