Researchers at Stanford University School of Medicine developed a technique to eliminate graft-versus-host disease without compromising cancer treatment. In clinical trials, the therapy showed promising results with only one patient developing severe graft-versus-host disease out of 37 treated patients.
A new method enables engineers to design more efficient heating, cooling, and other systems for spacecraft in space, on the moon, and Mars. The system uses a two-phase fluid behavior that can transfer heat effectively, making it compact and lightweight.
A USC/Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center study reveals significant differences in survival rates between HIV-related lymphoma types, including DLCL and SNC. The research suggests that optimal therapy may differ for these sub-types of disease.
The study identifies key factors that led to the success of seven developing countries' health biotech industries, including focusing on local health needs, private sector commercialization, widespread collaboration and long-term government support. Successful innovations, such as Cuba's vaccine for Haemophilus influenzae type b infect...
Research found that individuals who slept for shorter durations had reduced leptin and elevated ghrelin, leading to increased feelings of hunger. This may contribute to the rising obesity pandemic, emphasizing the importance of good sleep in fighting weight-related issues.
Scientists have successfully cloned primates up to the blastocyst stage, a developmental milestone for embryonic stem cell research and potential treatments for diseases such as diabetes and Parkinson's. The breakthrough could pave the way for deriving human embryonic stem cells from nonhuman primate templates.
Researchers analyzed ancient liquids in bronze vessels from China, dating back to the Shang and Western Zhou Dynasties, and found evidence of fermented rice and millet wines. The discovery confirms a 9,000-year history of Chinese fermented beverages and sheds light on their role in ancient culture.
Scientists have found evidence of sulfates, cross-bedding, and blueberry mineral deposits that indicate liquid water was present on Mars. The discovery suggests the possibility of life existing on Mars in some form.
Researchers developed a survey method using helicopters to estimate orangutan numbers, revealing crucial information on distribution and size. The study suggests orangutans may adapt better to degraded forests than previously thought, provided illegal hunting and agricultural conversion are controlled.
Researchers found a gene that produces peroxide to 'stitch' together proteins surrounding the egg, hardening it into a protective barrier. This process helps prevent polyspermy and protects fertilized eggs from damage.
A study found that short sleep duration is associated with reduced leptin levels, elevated ghrelin levels, and increased BMI in a large cohort of participants. This hormonal imbalance may contribute to the development of obesity in societies where excess calories are easily accessible.
Researchers at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center found that a genetically engineered virus delivering the protein hsFlt3L slowed tumor growth and increased immune cell production in laboratory rats with glioblastoma multiforme. The study may lead to a new treatment approach for patients with GBM.
UCL surgeons successfully performed phalloplasty to rebuild micropennises in nine men, with four able to urinate standing up and four have regular sex. However, complications arose in several cases, highlighting the need for awareness and careful monitoring.
A new USGS-led study warns of the limitations and inaccuracies of microbial source tracking methods, which are used to identify sources of contamination. The study found that fewer than 30% of challenge isolates were correctly classified to their source-animal species.
UC Riverside researchers found that cigarette smoke delays the formation of healing tissue and sets the stage for increased scarring. The study, led by Professor Manuela Martins-Green, used doses equivalent to 'first-hand' and 'second-hand' exposure in humans and mice, revealing the negative effects on fibroblasts' structure and function.
Researchers developed a mathematical theory that describes the universal shape of stalactites, found in caves worldwide. The theory, based on fluid dynamics and geometry, reveals an ideal form underlying all stalactite shapes, with actual formations differing by less than 5%.
Researchers have developed a peptide vaccine that produces an immune response in 60% of patients with myeloid leukemia, resulting in complete molecular remission for three patients. The vaccine targets the PR1 peptide, which is overexpressed on leukemia cells, inducing immune T-cells to kill cancer cells while leaving normal cells intact.
Researchers describe a process regulated by Hedgehog gene that induces formation of fast twitch muscles from slow twitch cells in zebrafish embryos. The findings provide insights into muscle development and potential models for muscular dystrophy.
A combination of two biologic agents, alemtuzumab and rituximab, with chemotherapy has shown a promising response rate of 55% in CLL relapse patients. Complete remission was achieved by 23% of patients, while leukemia levels were reduced by at least half in 35% of cases.
A recent Stanford University School of Medicine study found a significant link between sleep loss and hormonal changes that contribute to obesity. Ghrelin and leptin hormone levels were consistently increased and decreased with reduced sleep duration, respectively.
Researchers found that a combination of thalidomide and dexamethasone is as effective as standard intravenous chemotherapy in treating newly diagnosed multiple myeloma. A newer analog, CC-5013 (lenalidomide), showed promise with fewer side effects.
Researchers used reactive hyperemia peripheral arterial tonometry (RH-PAT) to assess coronary endothelial dysfunction in patients. The study found a strong correlation between fingertip test results and coronary endothelial dysfunction, suggesting the fingertip test could be an effective screening tool for early heart disease.
Infants who don't sleep on their tummies have a higher risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS), according to a new study. Babies who experience sleeping prone are better able to avoid conditions that may trigger SIDS by learning how to breathe more efficiently.
A recent Penn epidemiological study found a marked difference in heart-attack risk between COX-2 inhibitors rofecoxib and celecoxib, with celecoxib linked to a lower risk. The study compared the cardiovascular effects of these drugs to nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like aspirin and ibuprofen.
Two studies found that physicians who cared for more terminally ill patients were less likely to support assisted suicide, but more supportive of terminal sedation. Attending religious services also appeared to increase opposition to assisted suicide. The findings suggest a complex relationship between medical ethics and personal beliefs.
A new study found that immigration status significantly increases the risk of psychiatric disorders among US-born individuals compared to foreign-born counterparts. The study analyzed data from over 43,000 US adults and revealed a higher lifetime rate of psychiatric disorders among US-born Mexican Americans and non-Hispanic Whites.
Research suggests that impulsive behavior in animals, including blue jays, may be an evolutionary adaptation to foraging in the wild. The study found that birds prioritized immediate rewards over delayed ones, as they would often forget about food and continue foraging. This impulsiveness may have been beneficial for survival but is no...
Research subjects who slept only four hours a night experienced an 18% decrease in leptin and a 28% increase in ghrelin, leading to a 24% increase in appetite. The study also found that sleep-deprived individuals tend to crave more sugary and salty foods.
A study found that having an imaginary companion is common among school-age children, with 31% playing with one at age 7. The companions varied widely in form and function, including invisible humans and animals. Imaginary play appears to be an ongoing process that helps children develop social understanding and emotional regulation.
Research found that only 28.3% of children received specialty mental health services, with younger children and those remaining at home facing disproportionately low rates. Increased coordination between local child welfare and mental health agencies led to better service use rates and decreased racial disparities.
A study of 1,718 people found that COX-2 inhibitor rofecoxib was associated with a higher risk of heart attack compared to celecoxib and older non-selective non-aspirin non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NANSAIDs). In contrast, those who used NANSAIDs had a decreased risk for myocardial infarction.
Researchers at Brown University have identified an enzyme called Udx1 that generates hydrogen peroxide to block sperm entry and protect the fragile embryo. The discovery sheds light on a century-old mystery of how eggs defend themselves against sperm, with potential implications for understanding fertilization and early development.
Researchers found that diabetics with mental disorders were more likely to have poorer diabetes control and experience complications. The study's findings highlight the need for comprehensive care that addresses both physical and mental health needs.
A study analyzing US children's weight trends found increasing overweight prevalence (28 states >10% in 2000) while underweight decreased, indicating a national problem. The researchers call for expanded prevention and intervention efforts to reverse the trend.
Researchers found that NASA's current guidelines, which allow for two-hour phase delays in bedtime, can lead to disruptions in sleep and alertness. The study suggests that gradual changes in sleep schedule may be more effective in minimizing negative consequences.
A study found that nearly one in five commercials during televised major sporting events show unsafe behavior, with bicycles ridden without helmets being depicted frequently. The study also revealed that 14% of commercials showed unsafe behavior, while 6% displayed violence, mostly in movies and TV programs.
A new tiger subspecies has been identified through a genetic analysis of over 130 tigers, suggesting six living subspecies rather than the traditional five. The study provides valuable data for conservation strategies and captive breeding programs to combat the decline of wild tiger populations.
Researchers suggest that the parathyroid gland evolved from the gills of ancestral marine creatures to regulate calcium levels in land-living animals. The discovery supports the idea that humans and other tetrapods share a common evolutionary history with fish.
The Levitated Dipole Experiment (LDX) at MIT and Columbia University is conducting basic studies of confined high-temperature matter and investigating plasma for potential fusion energy. Scientists are using powerful magnets to initiate, sustain, and control plasma in a process that releases large amounts of energy.
New research presented at the American Society of Hematology Annual Meeting reveals promising results for tipifarnib, a potential treatment for acute myeloid leukemia (AML) in elderly patients. The study found molecular predictors of response to tipifarnib, offering hope for improved patient outcomes.