A study of 81 undergraduates found that males exhibit higher pain thresholds and tolerances than females. The researchers also discovered that psychological factors can influence the association between physiological responses and pain responses, and additional research is needed to replicate these findings.
A study of 50 pairs of twins found that twins with a history of stimulant abuse performed significantly worse on tests of attention and motor skills compared to their non-drug using siblings. However, abusers showed improved performance on visual vigilance, suggesting long-term residual effects from stimulant abuse.
A new research study suggests that grape seed extract can blunt salt-sensitive hypertension in postmenopausal women, similar to the effects of plant estrogens or 17ß-estradiol. The study found that adding grape seed extract to a high-salt diet reduced blood pressure in estrogen-depleted female rats.
Researchers found B-vitamins to be effective in treating various painful conditions, including neuropathic pain. The study suggests that B1, B6, and B12 inhibit chemical- and heat-induced pain and activate the cGMP-PKG signaling pathway, which contributes to their analgesic effects.
A study demonstrated that low-dose tamoxifen can maintain clinical effect against breast cancer, reducing Ki-67 levels and tumor proliferation. The study found no dose response, suggesting that lower doses of the drug may be equally effective in treating ER-positive breast cancer.
Researchers have discovered the first crystal structure of human carboxylesterase 1 (hCE1), an enzyme that metabolizes cocaine and heroin. The enzyme's structure holds promise for developing treatments for acute overdose and detoxifying chemical weapons, including nerve agents such as sarin and VX.
Researchers found signs of marked environmental changes in Arctic lakes over the past two centuries, consistent with warmer conditions. The study uses fossil markers to track ecosystem changes and predicts these effects will be seen farther south.
Caterpillars reared in close contact with their own waste do not suffer ill effects. Selection by natural enemies likely drove the evolution of frass ejection behavior in skipper caterpillars to avoid wasp predation.
Tom Barton, Ames Laboratory director, has received the Federal Laboratory Consortium (FLC) Award for his efforts to strengthen ties between federal labs and industry. The award recognizes his work in developing the Lab's technology transfer program, which has led to 136 U.S. patents and 14 start-up companies.
Researchers at Ames Laboratory are developing new solar cells that can withstand the degrading effects of sunlight. By understanding the atomic origins of this problem, they hope to create materials with improved stability and efficiency. The team's three-step rebonding model offers a promising solution to this challenge.
A Stanford research team conducted a comprehensive analysis of low-carbohydrate diets, finding they lead to short-term weight loss through reduced caloric intake. However, there is insufficient evidence on the long-term effects and potential health risks associated with these diets.
Women taking two or more NSAIDs per week for five to nine years reduced their breast cancer risk by 21-28%. Ibuprofen was found to be more effective than aspirin in preventing breast cancer. The study's findings suggest that COX-2 inhibition may play a role in limiting breast tumor growth.
Reproductive rates in humans are linked to metabolic energy expenditure and body mass, with women in wealthy nations experiencing low birth rates due to high caloric intake. This relationship highlights the importance of considering biological scaling laws when understanding human reproductive patterns.
Researchers at Northwestern University have discovered that both Dax1 and Sry genes are necessary for normal testis development, contrary to previous findings that suggested only one gene was involved. The study sheds new light on the genetic mechanisms underlying sex reversal and infertility in humans.
A study by the University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center found a link between lower dietary folate intake and increased risk of bladder cancer, particularly in individuals with genetic instability. The researchers suggest limiting exposure to DNA-damaging agents and consuming foods rich in folates to reduce the risk.
Climate change is altering marine ecosystems in the Northwest Mediterranean. A study found that warmer temperatures are replacing cold-loving species with those better adapted to warmer conditions. This shift highlights the significant threat global warming poses to Mediterranean biodiversity.
Researchers identified lifestyle factors that predict prostate cancer recurrence in treated patients. Patients with low body mass index, regular exercise, and annual screenings had lower risk of progression.
A study published in JAMA found that an internet-based weight loss program was effective among adults at risk for type 2 diabetes, with participants who received email counseling losing more weight and showing greater increases in exercise. The program provided a tutorial, weekly tips, and access to resources, as well as personalized s...
Three leading national nutrition organizations support comprehensive school health programs, providing integrated nutrition education, access to nutritious meals, and healthy school environments. The goal is to promote balanced nutritional and physical activity habits for all children, reversing childhood obesity trends.
A novel combination treatment of celecoxib, a COX-2 inhibitor, and DHA from fish oil causes cell death in human colon cancer cells at low doses. This synergistic approach shows promise in reducing colon cancer risk with tolerable doses.
A study published in JAMA found that sibutramine, a weight loss medication, helped obese adolescents lose an average of 17.2 pounds when used in conjunction with a behavior modification program. The study also showed improvements in insulin levels and a reduction in weight regain over time.
Regular NSAID use for five to nine years reduces breast cancer risk by 21%, while ten-year use increases the reduction to 28%. The study enrolled 80,741 post-menopausal women with no reported history of cancer, other than non-melanoma skin cancer.
A school-based safety program led to significant improvements in children's bike helmet use, with almost two-thirds wearing helmets on their most recent ride. The program, which included custom-fit helmets and classroom discussions, also reinforced the importance of proper helmet fit over style or color.
The Succulent Karoo, a biodiversity hotspot with high plant diversity and unique species, is receiving $8 million in grants to combat declining biodiversity. The initiative aims to empower local communities and organizations to take action in conservation efforts.
High fish biodiversity does not guarantee ecosystem resilience in coral reefs. Human activities negatively impact bioerosion rates, even on unexploited reefs.
The study identified a new gene associated with breast cancer, C35, which is over-expressed in 65% of breast cancers. Researchers believe that traditional treatment methods alone will not be effective against C35 positive breast cancer and are exploring a two-pronged approach for treatment.
The Phone and Go service is a pioneering example of Demand Responsive Transport (DRT) services, utilizing information technology to facilitate greater responsiveness. Early indications show that the service is proving successful in rural areas with few existing bus links, offering passengers flexibility and convenience.
A recent study published in JAMA found that obese children and their parents experience significantly impaired quality of life. The study used the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory (PedsQL) to assess physical, emotional, social, and school functioning.
A study found a nearly two-fold increased risk of lung cancer among relatives of smokers, but no evidence of an increased risk among relatives of non-smokers. The researcher hopes to identify high-risk subgroups and develop tailored interventions or screening programs.
A new human coronavirus has been identified as a likely cause of SARS, according to a study published in The Lancet. The virus was found in 90% of patients with SARS, but its genetic analysis suggests it may have originated from animals.
Women with circulating tumor cells in their blood have a median survival of less than 24 months, compared to over 24 months without them. The presence of cancer cells in the blood predicts prognosis more accurately than other factors, indicating a possible link between blood-circulating tumor cells and aggressive breast cancer.
Scientists have identified two major gene duplication events in Arabidopsis, a small flowering plant, which occurred 200 million and 80 million years ago. These events are believed to be responsible for the differences among modern plants.
Researchers found women with hypothyroidism are 57% less likely to develop aggressive, estrogen-sensitive breast cancer. The study suggests a possible biological role of thyroid hormone in breast cancer and offers novel preventive strategies.
The American Academy of Neurology identifies five categories of reasons for treatment failure in headache patients. Incomplete or incorrect diagnoses are the most common reason, followed by unaddressed factors that exacerbate the headache. The experts also highlight inadequate medication regimens and lack of non-drug treatment options ...
Researchers at the University of Wisconsin-Madison have discovered a second anthrax toxin receptor, revealing that the toxin's entry into cells is more complicated than previously thought. This finding provides pharmaceutical companies with new ammunition to attack anthrax disease and offers potential therapeutic applications.
Researchers found high levels of COX-2 in dopamine neurons of Parkinson's patients, leading to cell death. Inhibiting the enzyme with a COX-2 inhibitor increased surviving neurons by up to 88%. The study suggests COX-2 inhibitors may slow disease progression and is being tested in new trials.
Researchers found that celecoxib capsules stop the Sp1 transcription factor from activating genes associated with cancer growth. This led to reduced production of VEGF, a key angiogenic factor that feeds tumors. The study provides a novel molecular mechanism for celecoxib's antitumor activity and may lead to tailored treatment options.
Rice University researchers aim to develop new, noninvasive treatment options for damaged cartilage by using patient's own bone marrow cells to grow more cartilage. The goal is to create a biodegradable scaffold that promotes cartilage formation and avoids problems associated with current therapies like allografting.
A recent study published in the International Journal of Cancer found a link between arsenic exposure and suppressed expression of DNA repair genes. The researchers discovered that individuals with elevated arsenic levels had lower levels of certain genes involved in nucleotide excision repair, which helps protect against DNA damage.
A new study by Children's Hospital of Philadelphia found that intensive toilet training before 27 months may not provide clear benefits, but also takes longer and can be frustrating. The research suggests that parents should consider their child's individual readiness and family situation when deciding to initiate training.
Sandia scientists confirm Z produces fusion neutrons, a crucial step towards self-sustaining fusion reactions. The experiment demonstrates that high-yield fusion is achievable through the application of huge pulses of electricity.
Researchers have created a two-sided coating with sticky and repellant properties to prevent bacterial contamination on medical implants. The new compound could potentially last permanently and be used in various implant surfaces, including tooth coatings and boat hulls.
The Center for Reproductive Research aims to improve understanding of hormones, receptors, and signaling molecules in female reproduction. Researchers will develop synthetic scaffolds and investigate molecular machines to address diseases associated with reproductive function.
Researchers found that DHEA did not significantly improve cognitive performance or ratings of disease severity in a randomized, double-blind trial. The study's small size and high drop-out rate may limit the findings, with larger studies needed to confirm the results.
A new study documents domestic violence by race and income in Rhode Island, finding that black women are overrepresented among victims reported to police. The researchers suggest that socioeconomic factors and racial positioning contribute to this disparity, emphasizing the need for comprehensive support systems.
A UC Irvine study found that hospitals can successfully evacuate patients and staff without relying on outside assistance. Non-structural problems like water leaks and electrical outages pose the biggest risk to facilities during disasters. The study provides basic steps for responding to bioterrorist attacks on medical facilities.
Researchers at the University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center found that statin drugs can prevent breast cancer cells from growing by blocking proteins that inhibit cell cycle progression. The study suggests that potent anti-cancer drugs could be developed based on the unconverted form of statins.
The ACS survey found mixed results, with new bachelor's-level chemistry graduates facing a median salary of $31,000, down $1,200 from the previous year. Despite this, unemployment rates remain low. In contrast, master's and Ph.D. level graduates saw increases in salaries, but full-time employment rates declined significantly due to mor...
Rep. Holt, a physicist and advocate for science education, has won a public service award from the American Chemical Society (ACS). He has worked to improve math and science education, increase funding for the Math and Science Partnership Program, and champion increases in the physical sciences budget.
Ancient societies successfully transformed their environments through slow, incremental changes to living, labor, agricultural, and water collection/distribution practices. In Bali, Indonesia, centuries-old environmental/cultural/religious practices remain functional, highlighting the complexity of human ecology in ancient landscapes.
A study found that men with high CRP levels were 3.8 times more likely to experience a stroke over 10-15 years compared to those with low CRP levels. The researchers also discovered that inflammation may trigger stroke by causing cell growth, cholesterol accumulation, and plaque formation in blood vessels.
Researchers have found a potential genetic link between variations in the beta-2 receptor gene and a reduced risk of heart attack and death from coronary disease. The study, published by the American Heart Association, suggests that individuals with certain forms of the gene may be more resilient to cardiovascular disease.
Researchers found that mice with a mutation in the fatty acid transport protein 4 (FATP4) gene lack wrinkles and normal hair growth. The study suggests that FATP4 plays a critical role in skin development, potentially leading to new treatments for obesity and other conditions.
A new generation of medical treatment is being driven by proteomics, enabling early detection of cancer and personalized therapy. The technology uses multiple high-resolution serum proteomic patterns to detect disease, with 85% accuracy in diagnosis.
A study published in Diabetes Care found that alpha lipoic acid significantly improved symptoms of diabetic neuropathy, including a 5.7-point total symptom score improvement. The treatment had no unfavorable side effects and may be a promising lead for future research into the cause and prevention of diabetic neuropathy.
Researchers found that 11C-acetate PET scans were more sensitive than 18F-FDG PET scans in detecting recurrent prostate cancer. The study used 46 patients with detectable serum PSA, and the imaging procedures were conducted on the same day.
The study found that Education Action Zones demonstrated some innovation in parents' perceptions of education, but this was not matched by consistent improvements in pupil performance. The zones also struggled to implement lasting changes in classroom practice due to the pressure of short-term targets.
A Duke team has identified two proteins, MIF and CyP-A, that are elevated in lung cancer cells but not in normal cells. These proteins may be potential targets for new therapies and a simple blood test to diagnose lung cancer without biopsies.
Researchers found that a combination of endostatin and radiation therapy reduced new blood vessel growth in mice with squamous cell cancer. After radiation, endostatin blocked the growth of new blood vessels, leading to long-term survival and tumor control in 40% of mice.
Researchers discovered a link between genetic markers and prostate cancer spread in African-American men. The study found that the ratio of MMP to E-cadherin accurately predicted cancer metastasis.