A combined approach of photodynamic therapy (PDT) and radiation shows promise in treating mouse tumors, with increased oxygenation improving the effectiveness of both treatments. The study used verteporfin, a light-activated drug that targets tumor tissue, leading to improved outcomes.
Dr. Teitell's discovery of the animal model may uncover genetic mutations that cause certain types of blood cancers. The model could lead to new therapies by identifying cell pathways involved in cancer growth.
A study conducted in California found that infants sleeping on their sides are at an increased risk of SIDS, with a significant increase in risk when they turn onto their stomachs during sleep. The researchers recommend placing babies on their backs every time they go to sleep for consistent safety.
One in five nurses experience multiple types of violence in a single shift period. The Broken Windows theory suggests that tolerating minor acts of aggression among hospital staff creates an environment conducive to more severe violence. Researchers aim to address this issue with a visible response to incidents.
A study on infant rats suggests that high-fat diets and increased production of uncoupling protein 2 (UCP2) may protect the newborn brain from seizure-induced cell injury. The ketogenic high-fat diet is shown to work in human children to prevent or reduce seizures, sparking new research into its potential benefits.
A study led by UT Southwestern Medical Center found that Gleevec, a drug used to treat chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML), does not effectively target CNS leukemia in the brain or spinal fluid. The research revealed that Gleevec poorly penetrates the blood-brain barrier, allowing leukemia cells to avoid eradication.
Research found that composted biosolids can lower lead bioavailability by 20-38% in contaminated garden soil, reducing the danger of poisoning. The study's findings suggest that using composted biosolids as a soil amendment could be a cost-effective alternative to removing and replacing contaminated soils.
Researchers at Virginia Tech have made significant contributions to understanding bear behavior, including the impact of radio-collars on survival rates and the role of dispersal distance in helping bears evade hunters. Their findings also led to the development of a morphometric-based dichotomous key for age identification.
A UCSD biologists' study links human impacts along the coast to size declines of marine snails, particularly among owl limpets and Gilded turban snails. The researchers found that human activity, not environmental change, has led to diminished size in gastropods on the southern California coast.
A recent study found that 95% of skin penetration operators believe guidelines are needed, but only half follow them. Tattoo shop operators were more knowledgeable about infection control than others. Barriers to compliance include client perceptions and busy schedules.
The cloud's mass indicates that Europa faces more severe radiation consequences than previously thought, wielding significant influence on Jupiter's magnetosphere. The discovery uses innovative ENA imaging technique to visualize the three-dimensional structure of planetary space environments.
A new study reveals that ATR kinase plays a crucial role in maintaining genome integrity by regulating cell cycle checkpoints and preventing DNA damage. The study shows that ATR is essential for ensuring cells leave the cell cycle without DNA damage, which can lead to diseases such as cancer.
The National Science Foundation has awarded a three-year grant of approximately $500,000 to the University of Pennsylvania's Mathematics Department to continue its Access Science project. The program provides professional development and hands-on activities for urban teachers to enhance student learning in math and science.
A study found that personalized mailings can significantly increase mammogram use among older women with Medicare, who may need an extra push to get screened due to age-related risk factors. The intervention targeted women over 70 years old without recent mammograms and those with medical conditions preventing screening.
A recent study found that adolescents with high exposure to rap music videos were 3 times more likely to hit a teacher and twice as likely to have multiple sex partners. The researchers also discovered that frequent viewers of rap videos were more likely to acquire an STD, use drugs, and engage in other risky behaviors.
A study of six employers found that employees cost $3,524 a year in average healthcare costs due to physical health conditions. Heart disease was the most expensive condition at $236 per employee, followed by high blood pressure at $160 per employee.
Researchers have identified a gene responsible for the spread of cancer in the body, which could lead to more targeted and less toxic treatment options. The study found that silencing this gene can halt the migration of cancer cells, reducing the risk of metastasis.
Researchers at UC Riverside have isolated microorganisms that can degrade up to 90% of the toxic pesticide endosulfan in 15 days. The strains, Fusarium ventricosum and Pandoraea sp., have potential applications for detoxifying contaminated soils and water bodies.
A study reveals that EXO1 is essential for both male and female germ cell meiosis, highlighting its role in fertility. Mice lacking Exo1 function developed tumors and experienced severely depleted sperm levels, suggesting a link between EXO1 and cancer.
A recent study suggests that newer mobile phones with improved handhold technology pose less risk to medical equipment. The researchers argue that a complete ban on mobile phone use in hospitals is no longer justified, and that patients' personal devices should be allowed in certain areas.
Researchers discovered six grains of stardust outside our solar system, including crystalline grains that contradict established theories. The study found that stardust is surprisingly common in interplanetary dust particles, suggesting it comes from primitive bodies.
Researchers found that mutations causing lysosomal storage diseases are no more common than other inherited diseases in the Ashkenazi Jewish population, indicating a lack of selective advantage. The study suggests that these disease-causing mutations were present in the ancestors of Ashkenazi Jews and were passed down through generations.
The Lancet Commentary highlights the need for a radical transformation to reverse deeply embedded ethnic biases in leading medical journals. The journals prioritize research from the rich world, neglecting the health priorities of poor countries, and this bias affects the range of public debate.
Researchers have pinpointed a genetic defect in the phospholamban protein as the cause of inherited dilated cardiomyopathy. The discovery may lead to targeted treatment for this disorder, which affects 4.7 million Americans and costs $17.8 billion annually.
The number of UK deaths from vCJD has been declining, with a stabilization in the rate of mortality. The disease's mortality rate is no longer increasing exponentially, but further confirmation is needed to determine if the epidemic is in permanent decline.
Researchers at Scripps Research Institute have found that the human body produces ozone as part of a mechanism to protect itself from bacteria and fungi. The discovery suggests a new role for neutrophils and antibodies in the immune system, potentially leading to new treatments for inflammatory diseases.
A Rutgers researcher is using brain signal analysis to better understand attention deficit disorder (ADD) and schizophrenia. By monitoring brain activity in real-time, the study aims to identify common patterns of interaction that can help define brain profiles for individuals with these conditions.
ApoB is a more robust indicator of cardiac events than cholesterol levels, according to MUHC cardiologists. Measuring apoB can help identify patients at risk of heart attacks even if their cholesterol levels are well-controlled.
Researchers found that antisense RNA regulates core timing genes in Neurospora's circadian clock, which drives the 24-hour light-dark cycle. The discovery provides an unexpected link between antisense RNA and circadian timing.
The article highlights the need for experience and evaluation of syndromic surveillance to detect bioterrorism. Emergency physicians are urged to be vigilant about reporting outbreaks to public health authorities until effective systems are in place.
Recent studies suggest apolipoprotein B is a superior marker for predicting cardiovascular disease risk compared to total cholesterol or LDL cholesterol. The ratio of apolipoprotein B to apolipoprotein A-1 is also more effective in assessing cardiovascular risk than the traditional LDL/HDL ratio.
Researchers have rediscovered a World War II era antidote for Lewisite, a chemical warfare agent that causes immediate pain and blistering. The treatment, BAL, can remove heavy metals such as arsenic, copper, and lead from the human body.
A team of researchers has identified a genetic mutation in phospholamban that disrupts calcium regulation in the heart, leading to dilated cardiomyopathy and heart failure. The discovery provides new insights into the mechanisms underlying heart failure and holds promise for future treatments.
Researchers found a mutant protein, phospholamban (PLN), that disrupts calcium signaling in heart muscle cells, leading to contractile dysfunction and heart failure. The study provides insight into the fundamental signals that tip a diseased heart into failure.
A new computerized survey has been developed to identify cancer survivors who are in greatest need of psychological counseling. The study found three key risk factors associated with psychological distress: dissatisfaction with physical appearance, poor physical health, and treatment with cranial radiation.
Scientists have developed a powerful new technique called phylogenetic shadowing, enabling them to study biological traits unique to the primate family. This allows for better understanding of humans by comparing with apes and monkeys.
A global study identifies cost-effective strategies to reduce the burden of cardiovascular disease, prioritizing non-personal interventions such as salt reduction and health education. Combination treatments with blood pressure and cholesterol-lowering agents are also shown to be effective in reducing disease impact worldwide.
A new study highlights the cost-effectiveness of reducing sodium in processed foods to limit cardiovascular disease, while also recommending a combination of treatments for high-risk individuals. The research found that targeting blood pressure and cholesterol levels could prevent over 21 million DALYs per year worldwide.
Physicists Wolfgang Knoll and Shigemasa Suga have been recognized for their contributions to German-Japanese cooperation. The Eugen and Ilse Seibold Prize, awarded by the Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft, honors their collaborative research in exotic nano materials.
Advances in handheld technology have reduced the risk of interference with medical devices, while a decade after its introduction, there is still no concrete evidence of harm to patients. As a result, hospital trusts may reconsider their mobile phone policies.
A considerable proportion of college graduates are unfamiliar with evolutionary principles, a study suggests. Researchers found that students with extensive science courses still exhibit similar deficits in understanding evolution.
Researchers found payment rates for emergency department charges decreased from 60% to 53% between 1996 and 1998. The privately insured group experienced the largest decline, with payments dropping from 75% to 63% of charges.
A New York City woman was poisoned after ingesting a herbal product believed to be contaminated with digitalis lanata, a plant-derived cardioactive steroid. She recovered after receiving antidotal therapy and digoxin-specific Fab fragments.
Scientists propose a new mechanism for passing information through cell membranes via a shuttlecock motion involving metalloproteins. This theory explains why dietary zinc deficiencies lead to a loss of smell and has significant implications for understanding the sense of smell.
A landmark analysis found that oxycodone was involved in only a small percentage of drug abuse deaths, with multiple drugs present in most cases. The study suggests that abusing opioids with other substances increases risk and calls for enhanced classification methods.
The new Advanced Disinfection Technology System uses ultraviolet radiation to eliminate molds, viruses, and bacteria in water. It improves the disinfection process by mixing water efficiently, reducing UV lamp fouling and increasing light penetration.
Researchers found that high-risk trachoma patients are unwilling to pay for future antibiotics, even if they can use household items as payment. This could limit the government's ability to control the disease and its progression.
Researchers at Baylor College of Medicine found that a specific enzyme is associated with high levels of HDL, which may have both positive and negative effects on cardiovascular health. The study suggests that the enzyme's impact on cholesterol transport to the liver could be beneficial or detrimental.
Research reveals that genetic mutations can lead to structural changes in the placenta, causing fetal death or miscarriage. The study found that embryos with normal placentas but defective Rb genes can still be carried to term, suggesting a critical role of the Rb gene in placental development.
Marlan Scully's new engine design uses a quantum heat bath to produce power, driving a piston with less wasted energy than in the Carnot model. The engine employs lasers, mirrors, and quantum coherence to capture energy from exhaust gases, improving efficiency.
The survey found that 35% of respondents discussed a health concern with their doctor after seeing an advertised drug. Patients who received a new diagnosis were more likely to have high-priority conditions such as arthritis or diabetes. Additionally, physicians suggested lifestyle changes and quit-smoking advice in over half of visits.
String theory predicts the existence of moduli forces with strengths comparable to gravity, which could be detected on length scales of one-tenth of a millimeter. Researchers used an experiment to search for these forces and found that they are unlikely to exist at distances smaller than previously thought.
Researchers have discovered that forces within granular materials decrease as they slide, but are then transferred to a network of 'force chains' that increase in strength. This new understanding could improve modeling of geological systems and design of industrial devices such as hoppers.
Researchers at the University of Michigan have successfully achieved quantum entanglement of three electrons using ultrafast laser pulses and coherent techniques. This breakthrough could lead to the development of quantum gates necessary for storing and processing information in practical quantum computers, offering significantly enhan...
Researchers are conducting a nationwide study to develop more personalized care for older adults with epilepsy. The study will consider factors like age, gender, and biological makeup to optimize treatment outcomes.
A national survey found that 25% of patients with DTCA-prompted discussions received a new diagnosis, including high cholesterol, arthritis, and diabetes. Specialist referrals were made for 33%, and lab tests or lifestyle changes recommended for 45%. Patients reported improvement in symptoms regardless of medication features.
A study by American College of Emergency Physicians found that only half of emergency department visits are paid, with payments decreasing from 60.3% to 53% between 1996 and 1998. The decline threatens the ability of emergency departments to provide care to all patients regardless of ability to pay.
A recent study by Dr. Douglas Wahlsten found that environmental influences significantly impact experiment outcomes in mice, including motor coordination and psychological learning tasks. The study suggests that even small factors like odors and experimenter conduct can have a profound effect on behavior.
Intentional deforestation in rainforests has gained attention, but unintentional out-of-control fires devour millions of acres of forests, threatening ecosystems. Fire behavior in rainforests differs from temperate forests, with slow-spreading fires having devastating effects on biodiversity and carbon emissions.
Two new studies highlight the severity of sepsis in young US children, with infants and low-birth-weight babies at highest risk. In contrast, imported malaria cases in European countries pose a growing health threat, while disruptions to ICU patients' sleep patterns remain poorly understood.