A study at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center found that gamma knife radiosurgery provided high rates of tumor growth control and often led to tumor regression for patients with benign intracranial tumors. The study followed 285 consecutive patients over a median of 10 years, with 81% still alive after 10 years.
In a study published in The New England Journal of Medicine, researchers found that Atkins' dieters lost twice as much weight during the first six months compared to those on a conventional low-fat diet. Over time, both groups regained weight, but Atkins' dieters showed greater improvements in blood lipids, including increased HDL chol...
A study found that economic growth often takes precedence over environmental concerns in local policy-making. However, there are examples of cities like Manchester where sustainability has become an integral part of urban development. Local authorities still play a crucial role in driving environmental and economic policies.
Researchers found that musicians remembered music better when they heard it during learning, regardless of whether they heard the music when replayed it later. This contradicts matching theories and suggests that auditory feedback plays a crucial role in music memory.
Researchers have created a new vaccine that stimulates the immune system to clear nicotine from the body, potentially aiding in smoking cessation. The vaccine induces antibodies that can neutralize nicotine before it reaches the brain.
Researchers discovered rapid evolution in the white-footed mouse population, with significant changes in gene sequence frequencies over three 50-year intervals. The findings suggest that humans may be a cause of this rapid evolution, and challenge current phylogenetic and phylogeographic methodology.
The National Robotics Engineering Consortium (NREC) will lead the development of a highly mobile vehicle suitable for various expeditionary missions conducted by the Marines. The project aims to deliver a complete system solution to address the Marines' needs, with an expected initial fielding in 2006.
Researchers at the University of Florida have developed a new index that can accurately predict days with high risk of rip currents, allowing for timely lifeguard deployments and potential beach closures. The model was tested in Volusia County, where lifeguards reported an average of 686 rip-current rescues annually.
A new computer model has identified a significant link between high-latitude climate phenomena and tropical regions, warming ocean temperatures by up to 1 degree Celsius. The discovery reveals a hidden climate mechanism that significantly influences global and regional climate change.
Researchers found that participants on the Atkins diet lost an average of 14.7 pounds compared to 5.8 pounds in the conventional diet group after one year. Additionally, Atkins participants had greater increases in HDL cholesterol and reductions in triglycerides.
Researchers at Purdue University have identified a gene that controls the production of plants' outermost protective coating. By manipulating this gene, they may be able to create crops with increased drought resistance. The study found that altering the gene's expression can result in thicker or more rigid cuticles, reducing water los...
A two-year study found significant improvements in ADHD symptoms in children treated with once-daily Adderall XR, with at least 35% sustained improvement. The medication remained effective in controlling symptoms over an extended period.
A study found that primary care physicians face challenges in providing high-quality mental health services due to the number of managed care contacts and referral process complexities. To improve access, managed care organizations should develop uniform procedures for obtaining mental health services.
The study found that African Americans in the Appalachian region are 18% more likely to have proximal colon cancer and 56% more likely to have advanced-stage disease. This disparity may be due to screening disparities leading to delayed detection and lower recovery rates.
Quetiapine has been shown to be statistically more effective at treating manic symptoms of bipolar disorder than placebo. The results of the clinical trials indicate rapid symptom improvement from day four and a favorable side effect profile, making it an exciting development in psychiatry.
Researchers are developing faster methods to detect pathogens in the environment, such as DNA-based field assays and real-time PCR systems. However, challenges persist, including identifying the viability of pathogens and distinguishing between natural and genetically modified organisms.
Researchers at NYU Langone Health have found that the new antibiotic linezolid is effective against multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (TB), a disease that affects millions worldwide. The drug was administered to five patients who had run out of other treatment options, and all showed significant improvement.
In a six-month clinical trial, participants on a low-carbohydrate diet lost an average of 13 pounds and reduced triglyceride levels by 20%, compared to 4 pounds and 4% for the low-fat group. Insulin sensitivity improved in non-diabetic participants and blood sugar levels decreased in diabetic patients on the low-carbohydrate diet.
Researchers have developed a process to extract hydrogen and methane from wastewater using bacteria, reducing the need for aeration and lowering treatment costs. This innovative method produces biogas containing up to 60% hydrogen and can be converted into electricity with high efficiency.
Researchers have developed a new material made from micrometer-sized polymer beads that improves the treatment of urinary incontinence. The microspheres are well-tolerated by rats and anchor themselves to surrounding tissues, reducing the risk of allergic responses or degradation over time.
Researchers found that hummingbirds can be influenced by the range of options available, making instant decisions based on perceived energy. This technique has implications for animal decision-making, conservation projects, and marketing theorists.
A national survey of ICU directors found that over 85% identified at least one large barrier to end-of-life care, including unrealistic expectations and insufficient training in communication. The survey also revealed that widely endorsed strategies such as training and symptom management are not always available in institutions.
A study using camera pills found that people taking NSAIDs regularly are at increased risk of small intestinal mucosal ulceration and bleeding. The study, which used capsule endoscopy to visualize the entire small intestine, detected erosions in 62% of NSAID users compared to 5% of non-users.
A new study suggests that lung-volume-reduction surgery may be a cost-effective treatment for severe emphysema, particularly for patients who respond well to the procedure. The surgery costs around $35,000 per person, but its long-term cost-effectiveness is uncertain due to limited follow-up data.
USC researchers have identified a protein fragment, PEP, that can increase the effectiveness of chemotherapy drugs against tumors. By making tumor blood vessels more permeable, PEP allows for better drug uptake and increased chemotherapy efficacy.
A major government study found that surgery provides significant improvements in pulmonary function, exercise tolerance, and quality of life for selected emphysema patients. The study identified specific criteria, including CT scan patterns and exercise capacity, to determine which patients are best suited for surgical therapy.
A landmark cooperative study found that patients with upper lobe emphysema and low exercise capacity benefit more from lung volume reduction surgeries (LVRS), while those without these characteristics experience decreased survival and functional levels. LVRS improved lung function and exercise capacity, but had no long-term benefits.
Researchers found that low blood levels of selenium are a risk factor for progression of Barrett's esophagus and that higher levels of selenium may inhibit the progression of this condition. The study suggests that adequate selenium consumption may lower cancer risk in people with Barrett's esophagus.
A recent study found that 20% of pregnant women show signs of depression, yet only 13.8% receive mental health counseling or treatment during pregnancy. The study highlights the need for increased awareness and screening to address post-partum depression risks associated with hormone imbalances and fetal exposure.
A national multicenter trial confirms that lung volume reduction surgery (LVRS) significantly improves the quality of life and life expectancy for patients with severe emphysema. The procedure, which involves removing diseased sections of lung tissue, allows patients to resume routine activities without breathing difficulties.
A laboratory study found that tea polyphenols inhibited the growth of oral bacteria, reducing volatile sulfur compounds. The study also showed that low concentrations of polyphenols hindered the enzyme catalyzing hydrogen sulfide formation, cutting its production by 30%.
The study found that physicians can improve ICU end-of-life conferences by providing emotional support, listening to family members' concerns, and allowing them more time to speak. This leads to increased family satisfaction and reduced conflict during the conference.
The study presents data on quetiapine fumarate's efficacy in managing symptoms of acute mania in patients with bipolar disorder. The medication achieved significant responses in 48.1% of patients, with a high completion rate compared to the placebo group.
A study of 7,257 patients with rectal cancer found that those treated at high-volume hospitals had lower mortality rates and higher survival rates compared to those treated at low-volume hospitals. Patients at high-volume hospitals also experienced a lower risk of permanent colostomy.
A new study by USC researchers found that exposure to cockroaches, weed killers, pesticides, and other environmental pollutants in the first year of life are linked to an increased risk of early asthma. Daycare attendance before 4 months also contributed to this risk.
A new meta-analysis of 42 clinical trials involving over 190,000 patients found that low-dose diuretics significantly reduced the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and death. Low-dose diuretics were found to be more effective than other medications in preventing cardiovascular disease morbidity and mortality.
Researchers from National Jewish Health will present data on the prevalence of obstructive sleep apnea in difficult-to-control asthma patients. Additionally, they will discuss risk factors for 'hot tub lung' caused by nontubercular mycobacteria and a genetic mutation linked to mycobacterial infections.
A study found that one-third of young adults who outgrow asthma may experience a relapse by age 26. Those highly allergic or with bronchial hyper-responsiveness are at greatest risk. The study followed 1,037 New Zealanders to age 26, with detailed respiratory histories every two years.
A new study found that beta-carotene supplementation increased colorectal adenoma recurrence risk among smokers and heavy drinkers. Randomized trials showed a significant decrease in adenoma recurrence risk without smoking or drinking, but paradoxical results when exposed to these lifestyle factors.
Researchers have discovered a second mechanism by which LPA promotes ovarian tumor growth through increased cyclin D1 protein levels. Additionally, the identification of PEP, a peptide fragment with vasopermeability activity, may help reduce toxicity in cancer immunotherapy. A new study also suggests that p16 inhibitors play a role in ...
New NASA research reveals that soot particles in the atmosphere absorb twice as much sunlight as previously estimated, contributing significantly to global warming. The study's findings are based on analysis of global atmospheric measurements and computer models.
Current policies focus on enhancing skilled workers, neglecting organisational change and institutional transformation. New research highlights the importance of workplace reorganisation and structure in creating high-skills workforces.
The new center will conduct basic nuclear science research and partner with the Oak Ridge National Laboratory to acquire specific data for the DOE's scientific and engineering effort to maintain the nation's nuclear weapons. The partnership aims to engage faculty, postdoctoral researchers, and students in nuclear science research.
A six-year study found that lung volume reduction surgery improves quality of life and survival rates for patients with upper lobe emphysema who are unable to exercise. The procedure did not show overall survival benefits, but identifying non-beneficial candidates is crucial.
A new study reveals that dogs cause a stronger reaction in asthmatics than cats, even though more people are allergic to cats. The study found that dogs triggered a combination of reactions that included reduced air exhalation and increased nitric oxide release due to inflammation.
A new study published in JAMA found that a combination therapy of hormone replacement and alendronate was well-tolerated by elderly women with low bone mass. After three years, participants taking the combination therapy showed significantly greater increases in bone mass compared to those taking individual therapies.
A new randomized study found that beta-carotene supplementation increased cancer risk in smokers and drinkers, while decreasing risk in non-smokers and non-drinkers. The study's findings highlight the complexity of designing safe and effective chemopreventive strategies for any cancer.
Studies using laser measurements reveal the natural basis for human tendencies in judging distances, including a preference for distances of 6-12 feet and equidistance between objects. The findings support the theory that the visual system has evolved to make statistical guesses about distances based on past experience.
The study found that lung surgery improves survival rates and function for some patients with severe emphysema, particularly those with concentrated disease in the upper lobes. However, patients with more diffuse disease and greater exercise capacity are at higher risk of complications.
A recent survey found that the public was misled by the media's coverage of the MMR controversy, with 53% assuming there was equal evidence for both sides. The study also revealed that journalists struggled to balance competing views on issues like climate change and genetics.
A partnership between Cardiff University and the city council aims to determine the Welsh capital's ecological footprint, providing valuable data for planners to link economic growth and environmental protection. The study will help reduce the city's footprint in areas such as transport, energy, waste, and resource use.
Researchers found green tea extract from tea bags is more effective than loose tea against human pathogenic viruses. Caffeinated green and black teas also outperform decaffeinated versions as anti-viral agents.
Exposure to environmental toxins during the first year of life significantly increases asthma risk, with cockroach infestations doubling the likelihood, according to a study led by Dr. Frank Gilliland.
Virus researchers discovered a critical role of Z-DNA in pox virus lethality, leading to potential development of anti-viral compounds effective against smallpox. The findings may also shed light on the regulation of transcription and cellular responses to viral infections.
Vera Kettnaker's proposed system analyzes an elderly person's movement patterns to detect potential problems and summon help automatically. The system would be integrated with ceiling-mounted cameras and data-processing equipment to provide a safe and private living environment for seniors.
Researchers discovered a novel way to defeat Gleevec-resistant cancer using a second drug that targets the tyrosine kinase enzyme. This proof-of-principle shows promise for treating patients with a range of cancers.
New predictions suggest vCJD epidemic will decline with a comparable worst-case scenario of 540 UK cases between now and 2080. The researchers estimated the incubation time of vCJD to be 12.6 years, similar to Kuru, and calculated that only 40 future cases are expected within the next five years.
A University of Pittsburgh Medical Center study found that high school athletes recover from concussion slower than age-matched college athletes. High school athletes showed significant memory impairment at day 7 post-injury, while college athletes displayed commensurate performance with control subjects by day 3.
Researchers discovered a lignin-carbohydrate compound from Prunella vulgaris with potent activity against HSV-1 and HSV-2 infections. The compound showed significant reduction in skin lesions and increase in survival rate in guinea pigs and mice, respectively.
Researchers use DNA analysis to identify previously unknown microbe kingdoms, expanding the estimated number of microbial species to about 30. The discovery has potential applications in agriculture and ecology, including understanding soil diversity and improving sewage treatment.