A recent study published in Cancer revealed that African-American women are four times more likely than white women to show significant alterations in the tumor suppressor gene p53. This finding suggests a greater burden of poor prognostic factors among African-American women, highlighting a potential link between genetic mutation and ...
Researchers at Stanford and Packard find that premature boys' brains are more severely affected than girls in areas responsible for reading, language, emotion, and behavior. The study reveals a significant disparity between preterm males and females, with preterm boys struggling more with speech and language.
The Eastern Interconnection Phasor Project provides real-time system-wide data to utilities and transmission operators, potentially preventing cascading loss of power. The project uses satellite-based time clocks and sophisticated signal processing to enable more accurate monitoring and analysis.
A study published in Archives of Internal Medicine found that 21% of elderly patients fill prescriptions for potentially inappropriate medications, with Amitriptyline and doxepin being common culprits. The researchers used a large national pharmaceutical benefit company's outpatient claims database to identify these inappropriate medic...
A computer simulation by Rice University scientists suggests that the ability to evolve can itself be favored through natural selection. This idea challenges traditional views and provides insights into the evolution of drug resistance in bacteria, immune system cells, and higher-order organisms.
A recent study by Michigan Medicine reveals that Mexican-Americans are twice as likely to experience a stroke or near-stroke compared to non-Hispanic whites. The disparity holds true across various age groups, including younger populations, with unique genetic predispositions and potential factors contributing to the increased risk.
Researchers found that disrupting the circadian clock gene led to abnormal estrous cycles and high rates of mid-gestation pregnancy failure. The study's findings have implications for human infertility, particularly for women working swing-shifts, who are more susceptible to irregular menstrual cycles and miscarriage.
A comprehensive study found that US Latinos have high rates of diabetic retinopathy, open-angle glaucoma, and cataract, with significant disparities in healthcare access. Researchers emphasize the importance of providing culturally tailored programs to detect and manage eye diseases in this population.
Research found that injured methamphetamine users stayed in hospitals longer and incurred higher costs, compared to those who tested negative. The study, which analyzed records of 212 patients, showed that positive test results were linked to increased hospital admissions, stays, and charges.
Researchers analyzed 15 years of data on liver transplant recipients with hepatitis B and found significant improvements in 5-year-survival rates from 53% to 76%. Advances in prophylaxis and treatment of recurrent HBV disease likely contributed to these gains.
A study by Duke University researchers found that over a year, one in five elderly Americans filled prescriptions for at least one 'drug of concern', including anti-depressants and anti-anxiety drugs with severe adverse effects. This highlights the need to improve education and screening of prescriptions to reduce risks.
Research suggests that mentally demanding jobs may protect against Alzheimer's disease by increasing brain cell activity and maintaining cognitive reserve. However, the exact link between job demands and Alzheimer's is not fully understood, and other factors such as socioeconomic status and environmental exposures may also play a role.
A team of scientists has identified an enzyme called CYP4AW1 that breaks down insect pheromones, allowing for the development of targeted treatments to prevent agricultural pests from breeding. By blocking this enzyme with a specific chemical, researchers may be able to disrupt the communication between insects and prevent infestations.
A new model shows that antibiotic cycling, alternating between classes of antibiotics every few months, probably won't work in stopping the spread of hospital-acquired antibiotic resistance. Instead, a mixing approach, where patients receive different antibiotics randomly, may be more effective in reducing resistance levels.
The study reveals alarming rates of eye diseases among Latinos, including open-angle glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, and cataracts. These findings underscore the importance of developing tailored prevention and treatment strategies for this underserved population.
Scientists analyzed mating behavior and body size of over 100 shorebird species to explain Rensch's rule. Larger shorebirds show competitive battles on the ground, where bigger males have an advantage, while smaller species feature aerial battles where agility is key.
Researchers found that people with Alzheimer's had less mentally stimulating careers than those without the disease. Engaging in mentally stimulating occupations and activities during younger years may help maintain a 'reserve' of brain cells that resists Alzheimer's effects.
The Hyperspectral Imaging Endoscope (HSIE) system uses spectral images to detect cancerous cells without removing tissue, offering a non-contact method of gaining information about an area. The system achieved good correlations with pathologists' diagnoses and could guide biopsy or establish true diagnostic value in future stages.
Research by Pearl Latteier and Joshua Gamson finds that media giants can actually increase local content and create niche markets for diverse audiences. However, conglomerates may also influence the material presented in media, favoring business interests over diverse viewpoints.
A study by University College London and University of Pittsburgh Medical Centre found that hypnotic suggestion can cause strikingly similar brain activity to physical pain. Volunteers under hypnosis reported feeling pain even though they had not experienced any physical stimulus, suggesting that some pain may begin in the mind.
Researchers have discovered a new gene, EphB2, that plays a critical role in regulating tissue organization and maintaining normal cell behavior. The study found that this gene is inactivated in prostate cancer cells, leading to disorganization and tumor growth.
TRMM has provided significant scientific research data over seven years, aiding NOAA and other agencies in monitoring rainfall and storms. NASA will continue to operate the satellite through the 2004 hurricane season to capture additional storm data.
A defect in blood vessel formation due to the LBP-1a gene mutation can lead to growth retardation, spontaneous abortion, and infant death. The study found that embryos lacking LPB-1a had abnormally large and thin blood vessels, preventing nutrient exchange with the mother's blood.
Researchers have discovered a common binding site on tubulin protein crucial to cell division, providing more options for developing effective anti-cancer drugs. This finding could lead to the creation of safer and more effective artificial forms of existing compounds.
A study of Humboldt County, California reveals that a knowledge economy requires more than just IT infrastructure. Public policy, cultural attitudes and economic initiatives must be coordinated to thrive.
Researchers at the University of Alberta have discovered that attention plays a significant role in prospective time estimations, with estimates decreasing as task difficulty increases. The study, published in Brain and Cognition, provides insight into how our brains process time when we're engaged or distracted.
Brown University scientists discover a malaria drug that precisely blocks specific connexins in the brain and eye, which may help shed light on the cause of epilepsy and seizures. The breakthrough could also lead to new treatments for other neurological conditions.
A study reveals the tobacco industry's extensive efforts to shape journalists' coverage of secondhand smoke, a public health issue with significant mortality rates. The research highlights the need for increased scrutiny of media articles on this topic to ensure accurate public information.
A team of researchers will use advanced imaging systems to study deep-sea animals, behaviors, and phenomena in the Gulf of Mexico. The expedition aims to discover new life forms and understand the unique uses of light in the dark deep sea.
Researchers found that preschoolers exposed to common childhood infections are less likely to develop Hodgkin's lymphoma in adulthood. This contradicts previous studies linking high socioeconomic status and delayed infection with the Epstein-Barr virus to increased disease risk.
A study published in Vision Research found that the size of animals' eyes is linked to their body weight, with larger animals having bigger eyes on average. However, when broken down into smaller groups, such as birds and primates, eye size becomes more complicated and varies greatly.
A new study led by Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center found that imagining a favorite place reduced pain in children after surgery. The study used audio tapes and video tapes to help children manage their anxiety and pain, suggesting a potential multi-faceted approach to pain management.
A petition from 52 leading European scientific organisations calls for the acceleration of establishing a European Research Council (ERC). The petition stresses the importance of involving the European scientific community and adhering to strict criteria of scientific excellence.
Researchers at UCSD and VA San Diego Healthcare System have developed a novel method of transcriptional gene silencing in the nucleus, utilizing short interfering RNA (siRNA). This approach may provide a long-lasting solution for gene regulation, with potential applications in treating diseases such as cancer and HIV.
A study challenges the common perception that spiders cause many diseases, including skin ulcers and flesh-eating skin disease. In reality, spider bites are rare and generally harmless, while other causes of these conditions are more likely.
The Lancet editorial criticizes WHO/AFRO's ineffective leadership and political ties with African governments, advocating for decentralization and a technical approach. The new leader has the opportunity to transform the agency.
A recent study published in The Lancet found that delaying preterm birth by a few days can significantly reduce the risk of disability in premature babies. The research suggests that obstetricians may be delivering too early and that delaying delivery until it is medically necessary could help minimize brain damage.
Researchers found DNA and proteins from BK virus in prostate tissue with abnormal cell changes, a precursor stage of prostate cancer. The virus may induce uncontrolled cell growth, leading to cancer.
A pilot program pairing medical students with older artists showed a statistically significant improvement in students' attitudes towards aging. The Vital Visionaries program aims to improve care for older people by changing medical students' perspectives on age and creativity.
A novel method developed by UCSD biologists allows for the simultaneous visualization of multiple genes' activity in individual cells, revealing their fate and potential applications in understanding tumor growth and stem cell therapy. This technique enables researchers to quantify gene expression and infer genetic makeup.
Researchers confirm albedo changes in Martian soil, correlating with changes seen from Mars orbiters, providing ground-truth information. The findings indicate important variations in mineral and dust composition.
The Ecological Society of America symposium explores ecological recovery after the 1980 Mount St. Helens eruption, revealing remarkable resilience in some species and dramatic transformation of Spirit Lake. Researchers discuss the importance of chance events, life history characteristics, and timing in ecological recovery.
The study identifies a heterozygous genotype for the prion protein, suggesting that individuals with this genetic subgroup may be at higher risk of vCJD transmission. The findings highlight the need for continued surveillance and leucoreduction policies to reduce the risk of blood-borne transmission.
PET scans improved detecting distant metastases with an accuracy of 85%, compared to 55% for current standard diagnostics. The technique also showed high accuracy in diagnosing locoregional disease, surpassing current practice by 24 percentage points.
A new study reveals that cowbird chicks survive and even grow faster when raised in noisy nests with host siblings, rather than alone. By joining their nestmates in a chirping chorus, the cowbirds are able to monopolize food attempts from parents and reap the benefits of shared parental care.
Researchers at University of Texas found no benefit to restrictive diets for travelers with diarrhea, contrary to traditional advice. The study suggests that simple carbohydrates may aid in gut repair and symptom alleviation.
Researchers have identified viral proteins that can kill specific bacteria, such as Streptococcus pneumoniae and Staphylococcus aureus, which cause various infections. These enzymes can be delivered orally or nasally to decolonize individuals in high-risk settings.
Researchers found that DksA is crucial for regulating gene expression in bacteria, enabling them to survive and resist antibiotics. By targeting this protein, scientists may develop novel antibacterial drugs that reduce resistance.
Researchers found that IKK beta deletion in epithelial cells decreases cancer incidence and tumor growth in mice by up to 80%. In myeloid cells, IKK beta deletion also reduces pro-inflammatory molecule expression, leading to smaller tumors. This study establishes the role of IKK beta in inflammation-associated tumor promotion.
A study found prednisolone to be ineffective in treating HIV-associated pleural tuberculosis, increasing the risk of life-threatening cancer. The drug improved symptoms but showed no long-term benefits for patients without HIV infection.
Thomas Jefferson University is developing a clinical trial using a bone-targeted agent to treat microscopic bony metastasis in high-risk prostate cancer patients. The trial aims to improve death rates from prostate cancer by combining hormones and radiation with the targeted agent, Quadramet.
The Cardiff University Research Unit aims to inform policy makers and prevent accidents by focusing on the human element of seafaring. With £500,000 funding from Lloyd's Register, the unit will draw on expertise within the Seafarers' International Research Centre.
Researchers pinpoint identity of early-stage T-cells in blood, providing tools for studying T-cell development and improving understanding of immune system. The discovery sheds light on thymus-imported cell types and may help uncover why certain T cells are difficult to reconstitute after bone marrow transplants.
A recent study by Express Scripts reveals a significant surge in Viagra use among younger men, with increases of 312% and 216% among those aged 18-45 and 46-55 years respectively. Meanwhile, growth in use slowed among women and older men, highlighting concerns over the coverage of lifestyle medications like Viagra.
The study reveals that tau protein undergoes a stepwise folding and truncation process in the formation of neurofibrillary tangles in Alzheimer's disease. Dr. Binder's research contributes to diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for AD patients, marking an important milestone in understanding the disease.
A study published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology found that 3D radiation therapy can effectively treat brain cancer in children without impairing cognitive development. The research suggests that radiation therapy can be a viable treatment option for young children, offering hope to families affected by this type of cancer.
A study found increased levels of C-reactive protein (CRP) in the blood of patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), even those without autoantibodies. The findings suggest that early inflammation is a key factor in RA development, potentially serving as a predictive marker for future symptomatic inflammation.
Researchers found a strong correlation between a peptide fragment of type II collagen (CTX-II) and the prevalence and progression of osteoarthritis (OA), particularly at the knee and hip. CTX-II levels were associated with increased risk and severity of OA, including rapid joint destruction.
A study found that genetic characteristics in patients who self-recovered from hepatitis C infection involve genes that suppress the action of killer immune cells. Researchers hope to develop a vaccine and improve therapies based on these findings.
Researchers use physics and transportation theory to define a network of spatial spread of contagious disease. The models accurately predicted the spread of childhood diseases like measles and animal diseases like phocine distemper.