Researchers identified a link between genetic mutations in the ABCA1 gene and lower HDL cholesterol levels in the general population. Approximately 10% of individuals with low HDL levels carry a mutation or nucleotide modification in one of their ABCA1 genes, suggesting that genetic variation plays a role in regulating HDL levels.
A new quick test has been developed to detect drug-resistant strains of gonorrhea by identifying genes linked to resistance in urine samples or leftover products from other diagnostic techniques. The test uses probe technology to simplify analysis of samples that cannot be used for culturing organisms.
Researchers compared bulk samples from five geological formations with a museum collection, finding that the diversity of mollusks is similar. The study also revealed that shells in museum collections are better preserved due to time, making them an important resource for researchers.
Increased use of virtual colonoscopy is expected to lead to a decrease in traditional colonoscopies due to improved detection rates. Virtual colonoscopy without bowel preparation has been found to be as effective as traditional colonoscopy in detecting colorectal polyps, increasing patient compliance and potential screening rates.
A clinical trial found that daily and weekend administration of atropine sulfate eye drops have similar improvement in children with amblyopia, a condition affecting 3% of US children. The study suggests weekend drops may relieve parent burden while encouraging treatment compliance.
A NIH study reveals that adults with nicotine dependence and/or psychiatric disorders account for 70% of all cigarette consumption in the US. The study also finds a strong co-occurrence between nicotine dependence and various psychiatric disorders, including mood and anxiety disorders.
The Oregon Health & Science University will focus on tuberculosis research, using cells from TB patients with successful immune responses to create vaccines. The goal is to provide protection to others while over 2 million people die worldwide each year of TB.
Research reveals that gut microbes suppress fasting-induced adipocyte factor (Fiaf), helping to keep fat cell gates closed. This suppression can lead to increased fat storage and insulin resistance, highlighting the importance of gut microbiota in regulating fat metabolism.
A team-centered program called ATHENA was effective in reducing disordered eating behaviors among female high school athletes. The program, which focused on promoting healthy nutrition and exercise training, showed positive changes in athletes' dietary habits and reduced use of diet pills and other unhealthy substances.
A study by St. Jude, Loyola and Kyoto University discovered that XBP1 coordinates the processes of building and equipping new ER to increase the cell's capacity for folding and shipping proteins. The gene triggers the production of phosphatidylcholine, a major building block of the ER membranes.
A study found that melatonin improved sleep quality in women with mild to moderate asthma without affecting asthma symptoms. Another study revealed a high prevalence of sleep-disordered breathing among commercial truck drivers, linked to increased accident risk and substance abuse. Critical care use was common among seriously ill patie...
A new pertussis booster vaccine candidate has shown promising results in a clinical trial, providing extended protection against whooping cough, diphtheria, and tetanus for adolescents. The vaccine, Boostrix, demonstrated high levels of anti-pertussis antibodies and comparable side effects to the existing Td vaccine.
Researchers found that atropine eye drops administered two days a week are as effective as daily drops or an eye patch in treating amblyopia. This reduces hassle for young patients, enabling better vision development.
Genetic variation in ABCA1 transporter contributes to reduced HDL cholesterol levels in the general population. The study found that specific mutations affect HDL levels, with lower levels associated with a higher risk of cardiovascular disease.
Researchers studied Tanytrachelos ahynis fossils from the late Triassic Cow Branch Formation, finding no significant differences in size or morphology between populations of the same species. The team analyzed over 90 specimens and discovered that environmental factors rather than intrinsic differences may be responsible for preservati...
The World Health Organization's Framework Convention on Tobacco Control aims to reduce tobacco use through measures such as banning advertising, warning labels, and smoke-free places. European countries are called upon to swiftly ratify the treaty to combat lung cancer and protect public health.
A longitudinal study on workplace stress found that women who experienced sexual harassment, abuse, or powerlessness in their jobs were more likely to suffer mental health consequences after the 9/11 attacks. Women reported increased anxiety and escapist motives for drinking alcohol, while men did not experience similar health effects.
A team of researchers has discovered a new form of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) called VEGF165b, which inhibits the growth of new blood vessels required for tumours to grow above one millimetre. This protein is found in normal tissues and can prevent cancer growth by starving tumours of nutrients.
A UCSF study reveals that long-term medication and counseling can help smokers quit successfully, with 50% of participants abstinent after one year. The treatment program combined antidepressant nortriptyline with counseling for extended periods, showing better results compared to short-term options.
Scientists at the University of Chicago have made a groundbreaking discovery in the creation of ultra-thin threads using air bubbles in breakfast syrup. The technique has potential applications in various industries, including fiber optics and electronics.
The study used wireless capsule endoscopy to detect 73 small bowel tumors, including 65% that were malignant. Capsule endoscopy provides a new option for diagnosing small bowel tumors, previously difficult to access through traditional endoscopic methods.
African-Americans report lower annual quit rates compared to Whites, with cultural norms and parental prohibitions playing a significant role in curbing smoking tendencies. Community-based initiatives can be more effective than cessation programs in reducing smoking rates among African-Americans.
The NIAID's Large-Scale Antibody and T Cell Epitope Discovery Program aims to deepen understanding of immune function against certain infectious agents. Researchers will discover new epitopes from various microbes, including those that could be used in bioterrorist attacks, to design improved medical countermeasures.
Research found that adolescent gamblers are more likely to experience severe psychiatric problems, including substance use disorders and depression. Early-onset gambling is associated with more severe problems compared to adult-onset gambling.
A twenty-year prospective study of pregnant women with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) found that mothers on maintenance therapy had fewer relapses and their babies were born with higher birth weights. The study also showed a lower rate of congenital anomalies in the IBD group compared to healthy pregnant women.
Researchers developed a novel ion-beam system that neutralizes positive ions using plasma, enabling precise material shaping. The combined beam allows for multiple species of ions to be accelerated and used in various applications, such as producing sound suppressors for jet engines.
Research finds that genetic deletion of the Nrf2 gene makes mice more susceptible to emphysema when exposed to cigarette smoke. This suggests a protective role for Nrf2 against oxidative stress and lung damage.
A study of 51 young patients found triplane fractures, a common sports-related injury, occur differently than previously thought. The use of CT with multiplanar reconstruction provides a new standard for describing these complex fractures.
The study found that almost half of patients with pre-existing high blood pressure were off medications after surgery, while 92% of those with diabetes were no longer taking oral medications. Additionally, degenerative joint disease improved significantly in patients who underwent gastric bypass surgery.
The ERICCA project aims to integrate electronic health records to improve asthma care for children. The system will facilitate communication among care providers, allow inter-disciplinary care planning, and provide clinical decision support.
A new trial shows promising results for Cilansetron in treating IBS with diarrhea, improving quality of life and relieving symptoms. The medication has been shown to be well-tolerated and efficacious in both men and women.
A new study on celiac disease over a 52-year span reveals a significant shift in patient demographics and symptom presentation. Fewer patients are diagnosed with diarrhea, while more are discovered through screening, leading to an increase in silent diagnoses.
Researchers found that PBSC transplants were associated with higher rates of mortality and chronic graft-versus-host disease compared to bone marrow transplants. This suggests a potential need for re-evaluation of transplant approaches in pediatric patients.
A five-year study by Virginia Tech researchers found that lead bullets do not leach into water tables or streams after landing on controlled shooting ranges. The study's findings suggest that lead is mostly absorbed in the top few inches of soil and does not pose a significant risk to wildlife.
Scientists discover new mineral that absorbs toxic metals like a sponge, revealing hidden reservoirs of lead, arsenic, and copper. The findings shed light on the migration patterns of these pollutants and could inform efforts to clean up contaminated sites.
A UK researcher has made significant breakthroughs in understanding the mechanisms of Alzheimer's disease. The study found that methionine in the human amyloid beta peptide is a key contributor to the disease, causing damage to neurons and decreased cell viability.
A study found that women treated with clindamycin for bacterial vaginosis experienced more frequent increases in E. coli concentrations and higher rates of clindamycin-resistant bacteria compared to those treated with metronidazole. In contrast, metronidazole therapy resulted in increased colonization by protective Lactobacillus species.
A NICHD study suggests that pediatricians can assist immigrant mothers in identifying potential problems with their children's development. The researchers found that Asian and Latino mothers scored lower on a survey measuring knowledge of infant development, but they were knowledgeable about physical health and safety guidelines.
Researchers have discovered VAR2CSA, a protein that enables malaria parasites to infect the placenta during pregnancy. Women with high levels of antibodies against this protein experience fewer complications and give birth to healthier babies.
Researchers have found that fat buildup in the heart muscle, called lipotoxicity, is associated with metabolic irregularities and insulin resistance in obese and diabetic patients. Gene expression and protein findings provide potential long-term targets for treating heart failure, which affects 5 million US patients annually.
A Ph.D. student at Virginia Tech is using electrical resistivity to measure changes in underground water movement in sinkholes. He measured a rapid change in water movement under a sinkhole during Hurricane Ivan's downpour, finding preferential flow paths and potential contaminants.
Research identifies seven ecological ratchets that contribute to coral reef loss, including decreased reproductive success and disproportionate predator survival. Organizations should focus on preventing degradation rather than restoration, with local management of resources being a key strategy.
Researchers discovered a key gene that protects lungs from damage caused by environmental pollutants and chronic exposure. The study found 50 genes regulated by Nrf2, which work together to defend against cigarette smoke-induced emphysema.
A new study suggests that virtual colonoscopy may be associated with a higher risk of colorectal cancer deaths and procedure-related deaths. The model attributes this higher rate of mortality to declining sensitivity when the two tests are performed, as well as increased radiation exposure.
The Imperial College London team, led by Dr. Danny Altmann, is developing new vaccines against anthrax and other bio-weapons using state-of-the-art technologies. The research will also contribute to a better understanding of emerging infectious diseases and the development of effective diagnostics and treatments.
A recent study found that most pediatricians significantly underestimate the severity of adolescent substance use, with only 10% accurate assessments of 'dependence'. The use of a structured screening tool, like the CRAFFT test, can help improve identification of adolescents at risk.
Dr. Moran's research focuses on the ecology and diversity of coastal bacteria, which influence sulfur emissions, carbon storage, and energy acquisition in marine surface waters and coastal marshes. The award supports her investigation into these processes, shedding light on global climate regulation.