The University of Michigan and Columbia University are developing a searchable child care research archive with a $7.5 million grant from the US Department of Health and Human Services. The online resource will provide valuable information for policy makers, parents, and researchers to inform decision making about child care.
Researchers found that total lymphocyte count and albumin independently predicted the risk of death in HIV-1-infected children. Using these low-cost measures could establish when to initiate antiretroviral therapy in settings where CD4 and RNA assays are not available.
Brookhaven Lab operates the main computing facility for Relativistic Heavy Ion Collider (RHIC) and is developing a system for the Large Hadron Collider (LHC). The laboratory is integrating its RHIC and LHC computing facilities into a comprehensive data grid, providing access to data from large-scale physics and astronomy experiments.
A new campaign, SELECT Sunday, aims to raise awareness of prostate cancer among African-American men, who have the highest incidence rates and a death rate more than double that of white men. The campaign seeks to double African-American enrollment in an international study investigating vitamin E and selenium as preventive measures.
New analysis suggests earthquakes in the Wadati-Benioff zone are confined to the uppermost part of the Juan de Fuca plate's crust, limiting their magnitude to around 7. However, a quake occurring in both layers could reach a magnitude of 8, posing a risk to the heavily populated Interstate 5 corridor.
A study suggests that college students overestimate the amount of fluid needed for a standard drink, leading to significantly higher actual consumption. This could underestimate actual drinking levels on college campuses, exacerbating alcohol misuse issues.
Researchers found that anti-inflammatory drugs can help new neurons form in the hippocampus, a memory center damaged by radiation. The study suggests that these drugs could be used to prevent long-term brain damage after radiation therapy.
A new blood test has been developed to detect mesothelioma, a type of cancer caused by asbestos exposure. The test, which identifies specific molecular markers in the blood, shows promise for early detection and monitoring, potentially improving treatment outcomes.
Eleven individuals were chosen by the Crop Science Society of America for their outstanding professional achievements and contributions to the field of crop science. The honorees are from various institutions, including the USDA-ARS and universities across the US.
A study published in The Lancet found that medium-firm mattresses can significantly improve symptoms of low back pain, including reductions in pain while lying down and getting out of bed. Participants who used medium-firm mattresses reported twice the improvements compared to those using firm mattresses.
Researchers found that individuals with a family history of alcoholism are more likely to prefer sweet tastes than those without. This preference precedes the development of alcoholism and may serve as a marker for genetic risk. The study suggests that a simple test to assess sweet preference could help identify individuals at risk ear...
Researchers have developed a new method called CLIP to catalog RNA targets regulated by RNA binding proteins in rare brain diseases. The study identifies an astonishing set of 340 Nova RNA tags, shedding light on the role of RNA splicing in POMA and other disorders.
Researchers at Purdue University have made a groundbreaking discovery about the formation of drops from nozzles, which could lead to new methods for making threads, wires, and particles. The team found that when a nozzle is immersed into sticky liquids, such as honey or silicone oil, the drop forms differently, creating an extremely th...
Researchers found baboons respond more strongly to rank-reversals between families than within families, indicating sophisticated social understanding.
Researchers successfully restored heart cell function by inhibiting the ßARK1 enzyme in laboratory-dish experiments using a gene therapy approach. The study's findings suggest that blocking this enzyme could increase signaling and improve heart function in individuals with end-stage heart failure.
Researchers found that a specific protein expressed by the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) is crucial for tumor cell proliferation and survival in Burkitt's lymphoma. Developing small molecules that target this protein could lead to effective therapies with minimal side effects, offering hope for patients with EBV-associated tumors.
A new study published in Alcoholism: Clinical & Experimental Research found that alcohol dependence is a concern in American Indian communities, but rates are lower than previously reported. The research highlights cultural differences in alcohol use and dependence among Northern Plains and Southwest tribes.
Despite improvements in reported pain after surgery, patients continue to express concerns about anaesthesia, including fear of not waking up or experiencing nausea and vomiting. The authors note that developments in technology and training have improved anaesthetic practice, but challenges remain to improve patient comfort.
A study of HIV-infected patients undergoing liver transplantation found improved survival rates compared to HIV-negative patients. Poorer survival was associated with postoperative intolerance, low CD4 counts, and hepatitis C coinfection.
A recent study published in The Lancet found that global obesity rates among children have more than doubled between 1975 and 2003. This significant increase poses serious health risks for the millions of children affected by childhood obesity worldwide.
The world's population will grow to 8.9 billion by 2050, with slower growth in richer countries and more urbanization in underdeveloped nations. The average population density is expected to rise from 45 people per square kilometer to 66 people per square kilometer.
A new blood test detects mesothelioma at an early stage, potentially leading to improved patient outcomes. The test uses soluble mesothelin-related proteins (SMR) as a biomarker, which can detect the cancer several years before symptoms appear.
Fourteen individuals elected to Soil Science Society of America Fellowship for professional achievements and meritorious service in the field. The award honors outstanding contributions to agronomy and soil sciences.
Scientists have successfully synthesized a bacteriophage genome, paving the way for larger microbes to consume CO2 and pollutants. The Institute for Biological Energy Alternatives aims to harness microbiomes to produce fuels and reduce atmospheric carbon emissions.
Thirty individuals have been recognized for their professional achievements and meritorious service in the field of agronomy. The American Society of Agronomy has chosen these outstanding members as Fellows, based on their contributions to advancing the disciplines and practices of agronomy, crop and soil sciences.
Researchers have developed a new technique called CLIP, which helps identify target RNAs regulated by RNA-binding proteins like Nova. This technique has potential to aid in understanding the cause of many human diseases, including Fragile X syndrome.
A study by St. Jude Children's Research Hospital found that the anti-cancer drug CCI-779 can prevent abnormal brain growth and reverse seizures in lab mice lacking the Pten gene. The researchers used a mouse model to demonstrate that mTor plays multiple roles in the brain, driving cell growth and signaling pathways.
Researchers have discovered that spleen cells can regenerate insulin-secreting islets in mice with Type 1 diabetes, potentially leading to a cure. The study shows that these cells can grow from both the recipient's own cells and donor cells, opening up new approaches to diabetes treatment.
Researchers develop antibodies that block CXCL-10 cells from recruiting T-cells, reducing spinal damage and improving mobility in rats with induced spinal cord injuries. This finding offers hope for recovery for those suffering from spinal cord injuries.
Researchers have identified compounds that inhibit the enzymatic action of botulinum neurotoxin serotype A light chain (BoNT/A LC), a crucial step towards developing new therapeutics. The findings hold promise for treating botulism and other muscle dysfunctions in humans.
Recent baboon studies provide insights into the complexity of monkey social behavior and suggest that natural selection has favored sophisticated social intelligence in primates. This research may inform theories concerned with the evolution of human language and cognition.
Research shows that moderate white wine consumption after meals can significantly decrease insulin levels, potentially leading to serious health consequences. The study suggests that drinking white wine alone may activate a new energy system in the human body, influencing glucose production and usage.
The study, which took place from October 1999 to December 2002, showed a lower sepsis and device infection rate compared to the REMATCH trial. Patients lived an average of nine months with the device, with three still living as of November 1, 2003.
Researchers found that Mexican-American high schoolers who experience emotional separation from their parents are more likely to engage in substance use, tobacco use, and deviant behaviors. Family conflict created by acculturation is also linked to marijuana use and deviant behavior among the teens.
Researchers found that genes influence offspring growth, while quality of care from mothers is the primary factor. The study suggests that there are both "super moms" and "dud moms", with success determined by environmental conditions like food supply.
A randomized clinical trial found that endoscopic fetal treatment increased survival to 73 percent for infants with severe CDH, while a comparison group with standard care reached 77 percent. The strongest predictor of survival was the size of the fetus' lungs at diagnosis.
A recent survey of US academic health centers found that physicians struggle to access specialty care for uninsured patients, with significant problems reported at both public and private hospitals. The study highlights the limitations of the nation's safety net and suggests broadening reimbursement funds as a possible solution.
Binghamton University has received a $10 million grant from the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders to develop more effective hearing aids. The project aims to dramatically improve speech intelligibility in noisy environments, benefiting over 28 million Americans with hearing loss.
The NIA is concerned about the growing use of testosterone replacement therapy without sufficient scientific information. Short-term studies are recommended to determine potential risks and benefits for symptomatic older men with low testosterone levels. Longer term trials will assess risks and benefits for these conditions, such as fr...
A study by OHSU researchers found a strong relationship between the decline of estrogen and progesterone in female monkeys and significant weight gain. The study suggests that menopause may play a key role in metabolic changes leading to obesity.
A new pathway has been discovered at Stanford that provides insight into heart disease, with apelin-APJ signaling potentially holding key to treatment for heart failure. The study used microarrays to scan thousands of genes and found a previously unnoticed connection between apelin and APJ receptors.
A new study shows that moderate exercise reduces susceptibility to upper respiratory tract infection by enhancing immune function. Soluble oat fiber â-glucan also boosts immunity, and combining it with exercise may have additional benefits.
Researchers found that stem cells from human peripheral blood improved motor and cognitive performance in transplanted rats, with reduced brain damage in the affected areas. The study suggests that using these stem cells may be a viable treatment option for stroke patients.
Researchers found that patients with Parkinson's disease performed better when their stimulators were turned off in tasks requiring spatial memory and inhibitory control. The study suggests that adjusting stimulation levels may be possible to minimize cognitive impairment while maintaining motor benefits.
Researchers at Princeton University have developed a new memory device that stores digital information permanently in a plastic polymer coating. The device combines an inexpensive and easy-to-produce material with thin-film silicon electronics, enabling fast and efficient data storage.
A study led by Dr. Lawrence C. Layman aims to identify genetic mutations contributing to delayed puberty, which may lead to better infertility treatment and birth control options. By analyzing the function of hundreds of genes, researchers hope to uncover potential treatments for this condition, which affects about 1% of the population.
Elderly Americans with heart failure consume significantly more healthcare resources than those without the condition, with average four-year costs of $27,822. Diastolic heart failure is estimated to be more prevalent in the elderly population and may require further study due to limited clinical trials.
Tissue-engineered pulmonary valves, engineered from patients' own cells, showed excellent performance in first 23 patients with up to three years of follow-up. The valves eliminated post-operative fever and shortened recovery time compared to traditional donor valves.
Scientists discovered a chemical relay that controls whether the body burns sugars or fats for energy. The discovery may help design better treatments for insulin resistance and ultimately prevent adult-onset diabetes.
Zebrafish provide a unique window into blood cell development, allowing researchers to distinguish individual cell types and transplant genetically altered cells. The technique enables the study of cellular defects in mutant fish, which can inform human transplantation strategies.
A single gene mutation may have kick-started the emergence of new species in monkeyflowers by altering pollinator preferences. The study, which combined ecological observations with molecular genetic techniques, found that major changes can lead to speciation.
After a spinal cord injury, the body's natural response can lead to larger, more debilitating lesions in the spinal cord. Researchers found that glutamate and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNFa) over-stimulation cause secondary damage to white matter tissue and destroy oligodendrocytes, which protect axons.
A study found that the terrorist attack led to an increase in heart attacks and cardiac arrhythmias, with patients experiencing psychological stress showing higher rates of these events. The findings suggest that drugs like beta blockers may help reduce the risk for people with heart disease and risk factors.
A new study suggests that caregivers of patients with end-of-life dementia experience high levels of depressive symptoms while caring for their loved ones, but exhibit clinically lower depression after the patient's death. The research also found that caregivers report feeling relieved when their loved one passes away.
A study at Duke University Medical Center found cardiac MRI can detect viable but damaged heart muscle, allowing for targeted treatment and improved outcomes. Researchers used cardiac MRI to visualize the beating heart, identifying areas of thinned muscle that could be saved with revascularization therapy.
A study found that 25% of patients who require emergency heart surgery after failed angioplasty are at risk of harm or death if delayed. The researchers estimated one to two patients per 1,000 angioplasties could be harmed by additional delays.
Researchers found that women with hypertension in the SYMPHONY trials received more and different agents to reduce blood pressure than men, yet showed no significant difference in blood pressure control. The study highlights opportunities for improving medical therapy and outcomes in women.
The use of clopidogrel in addition to aspirin significantly reduces the risk of recurrent heart attacks, strokes, or cardiovascular death. The cost-effectiveness analysis suggests that at least one year of therapy with clopidogrel is an attractive value for patients at risk.
A team of scientists has made a groundbreaking discovery by visualizing damaged nerve connections in living mice and tracking them over time. This breakthrough could lead to a better understanding of the underlying processes involved in Alzheimer's disease and potentially unlock new treatments.
Researchers at Brookhaven Lab help create new form of carbon by studying its bonding under high pressure. They propose a distorted graphite-like structure that challenges current understanding of carbon's intermediate forms.