A new study by Northwestern University researchers reveals that nearly 80% of patients have a moderate or high genetic risk for adult-onset conditions. Using family history questionnaires and three-generation pedigrees, the team identified twice as many individuals at increased risk than documented in patient charts.
A new study finds that istradefylline, an adenosine A2A receptor antagonist, improves motor function in Parkinson's disease patients with reduced dyskinesias. The medication reduces the time patients experience tremors, slowness, and stiffness by up to 1.7 hours per day
A recent study reveals that an unusually high percentage of genes are expressed during the critical stage of the malaria parasite's life cycle, when it invades red blood cells. The analysis shows a unique pattern of gene expression, with most genes expressed only once in a specific order, suggesting a molecular 'just in time' factory.
The consortium aims to identify and measure all lipid types within a cell, improving understanding of their role in diseases. This knowledge will help develop more effective diagnostic devices and treatments for conditions like cardiovascular disease and inflammatory disorders.
Researchers have developed a new test that can accurately record baby's heart rates in the womb in just 20 minutes, allowing doctors to monitor health and detect potential arrhythmias. The technique uses sophisticated filtering and signal processing technologies to pick out the baby's heart signal from background interference.
The Virtual Lab is a networked laboratory simulation allowing students to combine chemical reagents and solve problems using course concepts. Developed by David Yaron, it has been adopted by over 7,000 students nationwide, providing interactive learning environments for chemistry education.
A University of Iowa Health Care study found that public elementary school teachers often restrict young students' access to the bathroom, despite it being a common issue. Teachers with more experience were better equipped to recognize bladder problems and involved school nurses in addressing them.
Researchers are working on developing engineering tools to monitor breakups in tissues and organs, with the goal of improving storage methods for transplant tissues. The team aims to create systems that can safely store complex tissues and organs, which could lead to breakthroughs in disease treatment and expand organ availability.
Weizmann Institute scientists found that around 50 genes are optional, affecting a person's unique pattern of active olfactory receptors. This high level of genetic variation impacts how thousands of aromas and flavors are perceived. The study also shows varying levels of obliteration among different ethnic groups.
The Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center has been awarded a $13 million SPORE grant to support innovative research in breast cancer. The grant will fund four scientific projects and six core facilities, focusing on identifying molecular targets for lung, breast, and colorectal cancer.
The new method uses streptavidin-biotin protein complex to coat red blood cells with tPA, spares existing blood clots and reduces the risk of bleeding. This technique could provide a safe way of delivering clot-busting drugs with fewer side effects.
A study by University of Minnesota and Fairview Health Services validates collaborative care approach between pharmacists and physicians to reduce healthcare costs and improve patient outcomes. Pharmacists resolve an average of 2.3 drug therapy problems per patient, increasing desired effects from 74% to 89%.
Studies found that patients with vascular dementia had less NAA in regions involved in short-term memory and language, while those with Alzheimer's had substantial NAA deficits. Accuracy improved when combining MRI and MR spectroscopy measures, suggesting potential for recovery through drug treatment.
A study found that patients with unexplained chronic fatigue had nine times more prevalent sinus symptoms than the control group, and six times more common in those with unexplained chronic pain. Sinusitis may be a contributing factor to chronic fatigue syndrome in some cases.
The Change Detection System (CDS) technology developed by INEEL researchers uses computer analysis and human reflex to highlight subtle differences between digital images. This breakthrough technology has potential applications in various fields, including medicine, security, forensics, and field research.
The study reveals that out-of-pocket spending for Medicare PPO enrollees is nearly 50% higher than costs for Medicare+Choice enrollees, raising questions about the value of these plans. Costs have doubled since 1999, with sicker beneficiaries facing even higher cost burdens.
Researchers found high concentrations of BMAA in bat skins, which may have contributed to the Chamorro people's increased risk of ALS/PDC. The findings support a hypothesis linking flying foxes to the disease.
A breast cancer program for low-income women found a significant rate of 12.3 cancers per 1,000 women, exceeding results from other screening programs. Excellent compliance with surgical recommendations was also observed, attributed to the program's translation and transportation services.
A study of 1,884 Parkinson's patients found that nine developed pathological gambling, with most taking high doses of dopamine agonists. The condition was often linked to financial problems and could be controlled with treatment changes.
The study aims to analyze satellite imagery to create a new baseline of current glacier conditions for comparison with historical measurements. Researchers will focus on two regions: central Asia and southern Alaska, where glaciers have experienced unprecedented ice loss, affecting freshwater sources and regional ecosystems.
Researchers have identified a new compound, AM1241, that acts on CB2 cannabinoid receptors and shows promise in alleviating neuropathic pain. The study suggests that this compound may provide pain relief without the debilitating side effects of existing pharmaceuticals.
Researchers at Stanford Medicine developed a targeted DNA vaccine that can predict and treat autoimmune diseases like M.S. by analyzing antibody profiles. The vaccine uses tolerization to knock out harmful immune responses while leaving the rest of the system functional, offering new hope for personalized therapies.
The study reveals that boys offend more seriously than girls, but are also more likely to be victims of crime at a younger age. Young people who engage in risky behaviors together are more likely to both commit offenses and become victims.
A study by Ohio State University found that students taking a psychology-based study skills program had higher grade point averages and were more likely to return for their next year of college. The course used well-founded psychological principles to teach students how to put motivation and learning techniques into practice.
V. Zakharov received the 2003 Dirac Medal of the ICTP for his groundbreaking work on mathematical physics of nonlinear phenomena, particularly in the field of weak wave turbulence. His research has significantly contributed to our understanding of plasma physics, hydrodynamics, magnetism, and optics.
Research from Washington University in St. Louis found that frontal lobe function can impact false memories in older adults. Contrary to common assumption, age-related cognitive decline may be linked to declines in executive control functions rather than memory skills themselves.
A study of elite male athletes found that about one in five believed they weren't sufficiently muscular and wanted to gain weight. The findings showed that 17.5% of athletes in lean sports exhibited symptoms of eating disorders compared to 9.2% in non-lean sports.
First-year, full-time female college students experience emotional distress due to the loss of pre-college friendships. To overcome this challenge, colleges must create opportunities for students to meet new people and form connections on campus.
A new study suggests that atropine may be a viable treatment option for children with lazy eye, offering an alternative to traditional patching methods. The research found that atropine was just as effective in improving visual acuity as patching, even in children with poorer eyesight.
Scientists mapped locked zones on the Cascadia megathrust, revealing a 56-mile swath of land faces a greater threat from earthquakes than previously thought. Another major earthquake is expected within the next 200 to 800 years, putting rapidly growing inland cities at risk.
A case report suggests Munchausen syndrome by proxy may be responsible for unexplained medical conditions in infants, with symptoms including bleeding, seizures, and rash. The condition can be difficult to diagnose due to the perpetrator's cooperative nature, but experts emphasize its potential lethality.
Researchers at UCSD have discovered a chemical that allows plants to transport phytochelatins from roots to stems and leaves, enabling them to detoxify heavy metals like lead, arsenic, and cadmium. This finding brings bioremediation, using plants to clean up contaminated soil, closer to reality.
Researchers found a way to manipulate electron spin to transport it without energy loss. This effect occurs in materials already used in the semiconductor industry and could lead to a new generation of computing devices. The discovery has significant implications for creating smaller, more efficient electronic devices.
Deer facilitate seed dispersal to native plants in recovering habitats, but also spread invasive species like multiflora rose. White-tailed deer transport seeds up to two miles through their pellets, contributing to plant migration.
A study by Ohio State University researchers found that children with mild inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) are more likely to experience behavioral and emotional problems, including being withdrawn or anxious. The study also showed a link between the severity of IBD and social functioning.
Researchers at UNC identified two key genes involved in blood vessel development: BMPER and HOXB5. The study found that BMPER inhibits further differentiation of endothelial cells, while HOXB5 activates the endothelial cell program, increasing vessel formation.
Researchers found that loss of <i>H2AX</i> gene leads to increased genomic instability and cancer in mice. The study suggests that <i>H2AX</i> deficiency may be a major player in cancer-causing genomic instability, particularly in the context of human tumors with alterations in chromosome 11.
A recent study reports a correlation between declining vaccinations and increasing measles outbreak sizes in the UK. The reproductive number, measuring the spreadability of measles, has increased to approach endemic disease levels.
Scientists have developed a new adaptation of seismic reflection profiling to create detailed pictures of oceanic features, including eddies and internal waves. This technique has the potential to improve our understanding of ocean mixing and its role in climate modeling.
Researchers at Project A.L.S. have successfully tested a gene therapy approach that delays disease progression and prolongs survival in a mouse model of ALS. The treatment uses an adeno-associated viral vector to express the IGF1 protein, promoting neuronal survival.
Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine found that only 16% of pregnant women with parvovirus B19 exhibited symptoms, while 12% experienced fetal heart failure and 16% suffered fetal death. The study highlights the need for closer monitoring and counseling of high-risk patients.
A UCLA study discovered that fatigued breast cancer survivors have increased levels of circulating T lymphocytes and CD4+ T cells, which correlate with elevated inflammation markers. The findings suggest an immunologic basis for fatigue in breast cancer survivors.
A new study by Ohio State University researchers found that eight autistic children who participated in the Early Intensive Behavioral Intervention (EIBI) program showed significant improvements in IQ scores and adaptive behavior. Six of the children achieved average IQ scores, while two improved to mild mental retardation.
Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center have identified phosphatidylinositol 4 phosphate (PI4P) as the main regulator of membrane trafficking in the Golgi. This finding debunks a decade-old theory and provides insight into the vital process of cell survival.
Researchers found that injecting a gene producing insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) into muscles delayed disease onset by 31 days, preserved nerve cells, and reduced muscle wasting. This study may lead to a new, gene-based treatment for ALS affecting over 30,000 Americans.
A new study published in The Lancet found that the meningococcal C conjugate vaccine (MCCV) may increase relapse rates of nephrotic syndrome in children with kidney disease. The vaccine was introduced to all UK children under 18 years old in 1999, but subsequent monitoring revealed a 30% increase in relapses post-vaccination.
The American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) is seeking nominations for its Professorship in Basic Cancer Research, which provides a $50,000 grant for research expenses. The AACR-NFCR Professorship was established to honor Franklin and Tamara Salisbury and support cutting-edge basic cancer research.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins and Salk Institute develop gene therapy that slows progression of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a devastating disease affecting thousands. In experiments with mice, injection of insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) into muscles extends survival and improves strength.
The study improved forecast accuracy for a major winter snowstorm in Washington, D.C. and demonstrated the potential to enhance storm tracking and predict snowfall amounts.
The American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) is accepting nominations for several prestigious awards and lectureships, recognizing outstanding contributions in epidemiology, clinical cancer research, and preclinical research. The deadline for submissions is September 12, 2003.
A multicentre hospital-based case-control study found that transdermal estrogen replacement therapy is not associated with an increased risk of venous blood clots in postmenopausal women. In contrast, oral estrogen replacement therapy was linked to a significantly higher risk of developing venous thromboembolism.
Researchers found that antidepressants stimulate new neuron creation, which takes several weeks, and that this process is crucial for clinical response. The study also highlights the importance of specific serotonin receptors in regulating emotions.
Researchers found that genetic super-combinations from hybridization can create advantageous traits for survival and reproduction. They demonstrated a possible mechanism for rapid evolutionary change through replicating the births of three unusual species within a few generations.
Georgia Tech researchers develop packet-level simulation capable of modeling over 1 million web browsers in near real time. The breakthrough offers new capabilities for engineers and scientists to analyze large-scale computer networks and find solutions to Internet problems.
A Penn State study reveals that low-maintenance lawns harbor higher populations of beneficial arthropods, such as mites and collembolans, while high-maintenance lawns experience reduced diversity due to chemical applications and mowing.
Researchers discovered a genetic signature that identifies genes targeted by RNA editing, which is primarily confined to the nervous system across species. This breakthrough improves the value of existing genome sequences and may hasten neurological research.
A substantial increase in breast cancer risk is associated with combination hormone replacement therapy, particularly oestrogen-progestogen therapy. Current users of HRT have a 22% increased risk of death from breast cancer compared to never-users.
Researchers identify unsuspected gene C/EBP-beta as key mediator of cyclin D1 action in human tumors. The technique combines data from the Global Cancer Map and gene chips to pinpoint gene interactions that lead to cancer.
A Johns Hopkins study found that home visits from community health workers led to a 4.5 mmHg systolic and 4 mmHg diastolic blood pressure reduction, with the percentage of participants controlling their blood pressure doubling over three years.
Researchers discover new method to produce acetic acid directly from methane, reducing production costs and environmental impact. The breakthrough uses a palladium-based catalyst, but further development is needed to achieve commercial viability.