A bacterial enzyme keratinase has been found to fully degrade transmissible prions responsible for bovine spongiform encephalopathy and other diseases. Researchers plan to test its effectiveness in mice to confirm non-infectious levels of prion after degrading it to undetectable levels in vitro.
Researchers found that parents who received a photo calendar of their baby's upcoming immunization dates were more likely to vaccinate their child. The study showed an 82% vaccination rate among babies whose parents received the calendars, compared to 65% for those without.
Scientists discovered that plants can thrive under quartz rocks, possibly mirroring ancient life on early Earth. The study found that sunlight filtering through the rocks provides a greenhouse effect, keeping plants warmer in winter and cooler in summer.
MUHC researchers have developed a new method to diagnose and treat sleep apnea in children, significantly reducing wait times. The new approach allows for early detection and treatment of severe cases, enabling timely interventions.
A survey of 384 school professionals found an overall positive perception about having children with chronic health conditions in the classroom. However, concerns about specific diseases and issues exist, particularly regarding academic impact, peer effects, and personal risk or liability.
University of Arizona researchers used Love's equation to calculate tidal deformation in various spheres, discovering that under specific conditions, the shape of a planet could change dramatically. This may have regulated the size of planets, preventing their formation.
A study at a medium-sized northeastern university found that social norms campaigns did not change students' behavior, but perceptions of friends' drinking had a significant impact on their own drinking behavior. Educational efforts should focus on teaching responsible drinking habits rather than relying solely on social norms.
Physicians play a key role in improving patient safety by developing and implementing safety improvements, says study. The current medical liability system prioritizes capping malpractice awards over patient safety, contributing to unnecessary procedures and rising healthcare costs.
Research at Texas Agricultural Experiment Station has led to a patent for derivatives of DIM, a natural compound derived from certain vegetables, to treat cancer. These compounds have shown promise in inhibiting the growth of breast, pancreatic, colon, bladder, and ovarian cancer cells in laboratory studies.
A study of 91 patients with traumatic brain injury (TBI) found that depression was a common complication, affecting 33% during the first year. TBI patients with depression were also more likely to have mood and anxiety disorders, exhibiting aggressive behavior and reduced social functioning.
A recent study found that the US has the highest prevalence of overweight teenagers among 15 countries, with adolescents aged 13-15 years experiencing significantly high rates of obesity. The study analyzed data from over 29,000 children and adolescents across Europe, Israel, and the US.
The team discovered LBV 1806-20, a massive star at least 150 times larger than the sun, with estimated age of less than 2 million years. The star's enormous size is attributed to shock-induced star formation, while its location in a rare cluster of stars raises further questions about its origins.
Researchers discovered that methamphetamine withdrawal is associated with significant brain changes in individuals with mood disorders. The study used PET scans to compare glucose metabolism in the brains of methamphetamine abusers and non-abusers, revealing lower glucose levels in regions linked to depressive disorders.
Researchers develop a method to capture enzyme activity in real-time, revealing detailed information about molecular interactions. This breakthrough enables the design of targeted synthetic drugs for cancer treatment.
Researchers at University of Illinois have developed a light-emitting transistor that can control light emission and modulate it at high speeds, opening up new possibilities for integrated circuitry and signal processing. The device has three ports, allowing for the connection of optical and electrical signals.
William A. McMinn Jr has made significant contributions to the petrochemical industry, including leading successful mergers and acquisitions. He is the latest recipient of the Petrochemical Heritage Award, established by the Chemical Heritage Foundation and the Founders Club.
Wilks pioneered commercial development of infrared absorption cells and ATR, advancing IR spectroscopy in industrial, academic, and research applications. He also contributed to gas chromatography-IR and developed portable gas analyzers for workplace monitoring.
A study found that people with kidney disease have higher levels of non-traditional risk factors for heart disease. Treating these risk factors may help prevent heart disease in patients with chronic kidney disease. Additionally, an editorial highlights the need for malpractice reform to prevent medical injury.
A recent study has found that diabetes case management significantly improves glycemic control among low-income minority populations. The study, which was funded by the California Medi-Cal Managed Care Division and Center for Disease Control and Prevention, involved 362 Medicaid recipients with type 2 diabetes.
Researchers from NASA and universities worldwide found that El Nino events led to significant increases in greenhouse gas emissions from fires globally. The majority of the increase occurred in Southeast Asia, with other regions like Central and South America also experiencing increased emissions.
Researchers found that cognitive behavioral therapy targets limbic and cortical regions in a distinct pattern from drug therapy, which changes chemical balance in the brain. The study suggests that brain scans may one day help doctors determine the most effective treatment for patients with depression.
The Gemini Deep Deep Survey has revealed a greater abundance of more massive and older galaxies than expected, dating back to the early universe. The discovery challenges current models of galaxy formation and suggests an accelerated growth phase for galaxies.
The Gemini Deep Deep Survey reveals that a large fraction of stars in the Universe are already in place when the Universe was young, contradicting existing models. The survey provides a comprehensive sample of galaxies in the Redshift Desert, revealing more metal-rich galaxies than expected.
Children under 18 were more than twice as likely to be harmed in placebo-controlled trials due to asthma exacerbations compared to those receiving standard asthma therapy. Established guidelines recommend anti-inflammatory medications for all children and adults with mild-persistent, moderate or severe asthma.
Researchers found that colon cancer cells can revert to non-metastatic behavior when surrounded by other cells, reversing the invasive process. By targeting a specific gene called Slug, scientists hope to develop a drug to block metastasis in patients.
Scientists have solved the puzzle of DHFR-TS, an enzyme needed by Cryptosporidium for reproduction. The study's results will help researchers design targeted drugs to combat the parasite and better understand related protozoan families.
A study found distinct differences in symptoms, counseling skills, and procedures encountered by medical students in academic medical center clinics (AMCs), affiliated residency teaching sites (ARTs), and community-based practices (CBPs). Students reported varying levels of teaching and learning experiences across settings.
Researchers at Columbia University discovered that steel dust from NYC subways contains elevated levels of iron, manganese, and chromium, exceeding 100 times those found in indoor or outdoor settings. The study suggests that subway platforms are a primary source of exposure to these metals.
Scientists report that ozone standards set by EPA may be weaker than necessary due to overestimated background levels. Using a three-dimensional model of atmospheric chemistry, researchers found great variability in ozone depending on season, elevation, and geographic area.
A nasal spray flu vaccine has been shown to be effective in preventing acute respiratory illness in all age groups. The vaccine was found to be particularly effective in preventing natural influenza A (H1N1) infection among children aged 5-9 years during the 2000-2001 epidemic.
A recent study by the American Chemical Society found that MTBE alternatives pose a similar environmental threat to their predecessor, with TBA contamination occurring at a scale similar to MTBE. The researchers suggest that better storage tank design and leak detection techniques can prevent such threats.
A new study suggests that using IQ-adjusted norms can help identify high-functioning people at risk of developing pre-clinical Alzheimer's disease. By scoring against an individual's higher ability level, researchers found more accurate predictions than standard norms.
Researchers found a correlation between genetic variations in the VEGF gene and psoriasis susceptibility. This discovery may lead to targeted therapies blocking the activity of VEGF, which could provide relief for patients.
A traditional herbal remedy has been found to improve bilirubin clearance in neonates, offering a potential complement to Western pharmaceutical treatments. The discovery involves the activation of the nuclear receptor CAR by an herbal tea, highlighting the intersection of Eastern and Western medical practices.
A study of 100 patients with abnormally high liver enzymes found that 57 had HCV RNA in their liver biopsies, suggesting occult infection. HCV RNA was also detected in peripheral-blood mononuclear cells from 40% of patients, potentially allowing for easier detection and monitoring.
A team of biologists at UC Berkeley has found a key gene involved in the first step of meiosis, allowing chromosomes to recognize and pair with their homologs. This discovery is crucial for understanding meiosis in humans and could lead to insights into infertility and genetic diseases.
A traditional herbal medicine enhances bilirubin clearance by activating the nuclear receptor CAR, potentially improving pharmaceutical treatments for neonatal jaundice. Additionally, a viral cure for type 1 diabetes has been discovered, where infection with lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus completely abolishes the diabetic process i...
Researchers at Northeastern University have demonstrated that swinging limbs during running requires significant energy, contrary to previous research. They estimated energy use by measuring blood flow to hind leg muscles of guinea fowl and found swing-phase muscles consume 26% of energy.
Researchers discovered that a viral infection can redirect the immune response away from pancreatic beta cells, reducing autoaggressive CD8 T cells. This approach could lead to new treatments for type 1 diabetes by utilizing proinflammatory cytokines and chemokines produced during viral infections.
A study examined the ability of prisoners with mental illness to give informed consent and found that nearly all were competent but scored lower than healthy controls. The researchers suggest that extra time and effort should be spent during the consent process to ensure these individuals understand the risks and benefits.
Researchers discovered that nitrite in saliva significantly increases gastric mucosal blood flow and mucus thickness, suggesting a potential link between bad breath and gastric ulcers. This finding also has implications for conditions like sickle cell anemia.
Maternal deaths worldwide can be addressed by investing in effective technologies and ensuring their availability. The Lancet series highlights key causes, including haemorrhage, sepsis, and obstructed labour.
Environmental samples from food factories and households contained E. sakazakii, highlighting the need for preventive control measures. Health professionals should follow recommendations to handle reconstituted powdered infant formulas with care.
A meta-analysis of 16 randomised trials shows that artesunate is highly effective in treating malaria when added to other antimalarial drugs. The new combination dihydroartemisinin-piperaquine is also found to be highly efficacious in Vietnam, where multidrug-resistant parasites are common.
A randomized, double-blind trial involving 1,484 couples found that Valtrex reduced symptomatic genital herpes transmission by 75% and overall acquisition by 48%. The study showed consistent results with previous studies on recurrences.
In a groundbreaking study, researchers at NYU School of Medicine found that young nerve cells can rewire their developmental timeline, defying long-held assumptions about brain development. This discovery opens up new possibilities for generating neural tissue for replacement therapies.
A team of Duke University Medical Center researchers found that patients with back pain incur significantly higher health-care expenditures than those without back pain. The study's results highlight the substantial economic burden of back pain, which varies widely across patients and demographics.