An asthma intervention study showed a 60% reduction in total hospitalizations among patients with frequent asthma exacerbations. Researchers also found that initial use of three antibiotics followed by diagnostic testing led to better patient survival and reduced antibiotic use for ventilator-associated pneumonia. Additionally, prematu...
Researchers discovered a major new finding on the genetics of Parkinson's disease, focusing on the activity of alpha synuclein. The study found that an abnormal triplication of genes on chromosome 4 leads to excessive protein buildup, causing Parkinson's symptoms.
Current drinkers who consume at least 30 grams of alcohol daily have an 80% higher risk of breast cancer compared to nondrinkers. Alcohol is associated with a strong increase in hormonally responsive types of breast cancer, including lobular and ER+/PR+ tumors.
A team led by Reinhard Genzel reports detecting powerful infrared flares from a region just outside the supermassive black hole, indicating rapid rotation. The observed signals suggest that the black hole's fundamental orbital time is about half of the maximum spin allowed by general relativity.
A new study found that moderate-intensity exercise performed in the morning can improve sleep quality in postmenopausal women. Women who exercised for at least half an hour daily, seven days a week, had better sleep onset and quality compared to those exercising in the evening.
Researchers found that VR therapy with touch reduces anxiety and increases participants' comfort near real spiders. After three sessions, those who received touch-based therapy came within 6 inches of a live tarantula, compared to 5 feet for the control group.
A UK measles expert warns that major epidemics are likely to occur in the country this winter if vaccination rates do not improve rapidly. The Lancet publication cites unequivocal evidence supporting the safety of the MMR vaccine and highlights the risks associated with unvaccinated children.
A new anti-rejection drug, CP-690,550, has shown promise in controlling the immune system without severe side effects. The Stanford team discovered the drug by targeting a specific pathway in immune cells, which may lead to its use in treating autoimmune diseases.
Researchers discovered that Tim-3 proteins act as 'checkpoints' for the immune system, controlling activated TH1 T-cell responses. This regulation helps prevent autoimmune diseases and organ rejection in transplant patients.
A new study reveals that MeCP2, a protein implicated in Rett Syndrome, regulates brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), leading to symptoms. Researchers found that MeCP2 controls BDNF's 'off' state, but also enables its activation through temporary detachment.
A study of 32 nursing homes in New York and Connecticut aims to determine the effectiveness of specially trained retention specialists in reducing CNA turnover rates. The researchers will assess the impact on job satisfaction, intention to quit, and commitment to the institution.
A study of ancient vole fossils has provided a unique view on the evolution and adaptation of species to climate change. The findings suggest that small mammals can adapt to routine climate change, but significant evolutionary changes are only triggered by extraordinary events.
Scientists at Stanford University have created a 'supersized' DNA molecule, xDNA, consisting of larger base pairs that can increase stability and fluorescence. This new genetic system has the potential to revolutionize medical biopsies and potentially lead to the discovery of new life forms.
A new study found that lower family income and parental education levels significantly contribute to the development of depression and obesity among adolescents. The researchers analyzed data from over 15,000 teenagers and found that these socioeconomic factors accounted for a substantial proportion of the disease burden.
In a groundbreaking clinical trial, OHSU doctors used the Onyx Liquid Embolic System to repair aneurysms in patients with promising results. The new procedure uses a catheter to inject a liquid that solidifies into a spongy mass, sealing off the defect and preventing future ruptures.
NIAMS researchers collaborated with Pfizer to develop and test a new immunosuppressant drug, CP-690,550, which targets the immune system without causing toxic side effects. The study showed promising results in mice and monkeys, suggesting potential for treating autoimmune diseases such as lupus and rheumatoid arthritis.
The SCOPE/IUPAC project aims to assess the environmental and health impacts of endocrine active substances. A comprehensive review will facilitate risk assessment and inform policy decisions on addressing these issues.
Project ALERT reduced new smoker and marijuana user rates among seventh and eighth graders by 24%. The program also decreased binge drinking by 24%, counteracting critics who claim school programs fail to reach existing smokers and drinkers. Early users face increased risks for various high-risk behaviors.
A new dried blood-spot test has shown promising results for monitoring HIV treatment in less-developed countries. The test, which uses a commercial enzyme immunoassay, compares well with standard flow cytometry and could make CD4+ lymphocyte count measurements more accessible to rural populations.
A study found that distributing birth control directly to students in Minneapolis school-based clinics resulted in a 99% success rate of providing all requested contraceptives. This method improved access to contraception and increased actual use rates among sexually active students, according to Abbey Sidebottom.
New research suggests that predators play a crucial role in driving the four-year population cycle of collared lemmings in eastern Greenland. The study found that generalist predators like foxes, owls, and skuas synchronize their numbers with those of lemmings, while specialist predators like stoats lag behind.
A new peptide-based vaccine has shown promising results in treating advanced melanoma by inducing a strong immune response in patients. The vaccine, which includes granulocyte macrophage-colony stimulating factor (GMCSF), resulted in significant tumor regressions and stable disease in some patients.
Virginia Tech leads a national initiative to enlist high school students in analyzing plant genes, leveraging Arabidopsis thaliana's 25,500 genes. The Partnership for Research and Education in Plants aims to bridge the gap between university-based scientists and high school science labs.
Princeton University professor Hecht invents a technique to make protein molecules from scratch with various shapes and compositions. The method involves designing amino acid sequences that fold like natural proteins, potentially leading to the creation of custom-designed proteins for new drugs and industrial processes.
Liver cancer patients who undergo transplantation show improved five-year survival rates, increasing steadily from 25.3% to 61.1% over the past two decades. Regular screening of patients with cirrhosis is essential for early detection and optimal outcomes.
A recent study has found that oral steroid treatment for preschool children with viral wheeze may not provide any benefits in reducing respiratory symptoms or hospital admissions. The study analyzed data from over 200 young children and found no difference in symptom scores between those who received prednisolone and placebo. However, ...
Researchers have discovered that the protein MeCP2 regulates gene expression in normal central nervous system cells, and its mutation may be responsible for Rett Syndrome. The study also suggests that BDNF, a highly active gene, plays a key role in the disease.
Researchers at Michigan State University have identified a gene mutation linked to hearing loss, which could lead to new insights into the biology of progressive hearing loss. The discovery is expected to provide new avenues for preventing or treating this common health issue, affecting an estimated 28 million Americans.
Researchers found that student-led groups with peer opinion leaders outperformed traditional methods in improving attitudes, self-efficacy, and refusal skills towards smoking among sixth-graders. The network method was shown to be more effective than random or teacher-selected group assignments.