Researchers at the University of Illinois have developed a new transistor laser that can emit a narrow, coherent beam. This technology has the potential to facilitate faster signal processing, higher speed devices and large-capacity seamless communications.
This study explores the role of low-income fathers in their children's development, finding that supportive father-child interactions predict better language and cognitive outcomes. Fathers' involvement also affects mothers' parenting styles, promoting a positive cycle of care.
Researchers found that custom-designed facial implants provided excellent aesthetic postoperative outcomes for 22 patients with facial wasting syndrome. The use of high-resolution CT scans enabled precise modeling and sizing of implants, leading to stable and long-lasting results.
Researchers at University of Toronto found evidence of lead contamination resulting from bismuth use in waterfowl samples. The study suggests that excessive bismuth exposure may be linked to blood, liver, kidney and neural problems.
Researchers at GlaxoSmithKline have been awarded grants to develop new treatments for HIV/AIDS. Dr. Yaoxing Huang's work focuses on designing a protein that can block all three steps of the viral entry process, while Olaf Kutsch aims to identify potential inhibitors of HIV transcription using a novel screening system.
A recent study found that the Ras protooncogene induces inflammation via CXCL-8, a key factor in tumor growth and angiogenesis. Inhibition of CXCL-8 function led to decreased tumor angiogenesis, highlighting its potential as an anticancer therapeutic target.
A new multi-camera system can automatically sort images based on their three-dimensional contents, allowing users to pinpoint points of interest and explore further. The technology has potential applications in tracking objects or individuals in large environments such as airports and casinos.
Researchers discovered that three-quarters of premature infants with lung disease experience surfactant dysfunction, which worsens respiratory status. These episodes can benefit from replacement surfactant treatment or strategies to increase the infant's own production of surfactant.
Researchers found that thrice weekly versus daily drug therapy regimens were associated with a higher risk of disease relapse in tuberculosis patients. The study analyzed data from over 12,000 patients who completed treatment between 1998 and 2000.
Researchers discovered that the HER2/ERBB3 pathway regulates androgen receptor function, contradicting previous beliefs about EGFR's role. This finding may explain limited success of Gefitinib, an EGFR inhibitor, in treating hormone-refractory prostate cancer.
Researchers at Tufts University's Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy found that poor ubiquitin function contributes to eye diseases like cataracts. Adolescents who read nutrition labels often don't translate the information into healthier diets, with boys consuming more calories from fat.
Researchers at UCLA have discovered a protein that can keep HIV-fighting cells youthful and active, dividing endlessly and preventing telomeres from shortening. This breakthrough could lead to the development of new treatments for AIDS, cancer, and other diseases.
Researchers found a defect in the ATP2C1 gene causing type 2 mosaicism in Hailey-Hailey disease. Skin cells from patterned lesions possessed the mutant gene, while others had the normal chromosome.
Scientists have created a model that simulates how corrosion spreads through an alloy, inspired by the cracking of a brick wall. The research could help predict when preventive maintenance is needed for aircraft materials.
Aging can erode memory control while preserving learned behavior. New research finds that past habits become stronger in memory than new intentions, explaining why older adults struggle to learn and maintain new behaviors.
A new online survey, sponsored by WHO and European Commission, aims to collect information on the factors that contribute to quality of life in Britain. The results will be used to create a survey for doctors to assess patients' perception of their quality of life.
A study published in 2004 found that obese individuals experience lower sexual quality of life, with women reporting more difficulties than men. The research suggests that losing weight and increasing physical activity can help restore sexual function for those with obesity-related problems.
A recent study published in Annals of Internal Medicine found that high-quality CT scans can accurately determine which pancreatic cancers are treatable, rendering endoscopic ultrasound unnecessary. The study also revealed that CT scans were more accurate in detecting new cancers and determining the stage of the disease.
The NIAID genome sequencing project aims to reveal the genetic blueprints of thousands of human and avian influenza viruses, providing valuable data for researchers studying the virus's evolution and potential targets for new vaccines. The publicly available sequence information will help epidemiologists and other researchers improve t...
A new gene therapy has successfully corrected the genetic defect responsible for Fabry disease in mice, producing a sustained level of enzyme activity and reducing fat buildup in target organs. The treatment, administered shortly after birth, could potentially lead to a one-time treatment option for humans.
Researchers have discovered an inactive form of scatter factor protein that effectively suppresses tumor growth and dissemination in mice. The study provides promising insights into the development of new cancer therapies.
Researchers found GVG effective in reducing drug use in heavy users for up to four consecutive weeks. No subjects developed visual field defects despite high doses used.
Research by Queen's University finds that northern plant populations switch from sexual to asexual reproduction due to genetic factors causing sterility. This shift allows for faster adaptation to harsher environments, but may impact management decisions and species survival.
A recent study by Charlotte Ling and colleagues found that aging decreases the expression of PGC-1alpha and PGC-1beta in muscle, increasing insulin resistance and T2DM susceptibility. The age-dependent decrease was partially heritable, suggesting a genetic link to the development of insulin resistance.
Scientists have developed a new fluorescent protein probe to study cyclic AMP activity in living cells. The probe allows for real-time monitoring of cyclic AMP's impact on cellular responses, revealing its importance in various biological processes.
Researchers found that reducing food energy density by 30% led to a 23% decrease in daily calorie intake, while reducing portion size by 25% resulted in a 12% decrease. Women experienced no significant differences in hunger or fullness ratings despite these changes.
Research found that triplet mothers exhibited lower sensitivity to their babies' communicative signals compared to singletons and twins. At 1 year, triplets showed poorer cognitive development and symbol usage skills. High parenting stress was linked to lower maternal sensitivity and child cognitive achievement.
Researchers at the University of Iowa found that bacteria in biofilms rapidly diversify, providing a form of biological insurance against adverse conditions. This diversity increases the bacteria's capabilities and may contribute to the difficulty in eradicating chronic infections caused by biofilms.
Researchers found that sperm motility and ATP production depend on a metabolic pathway called glycolysis, which uses sugar to produce energy. Without the enzyme glyceraldehyde 3-phosphate dehydrogenase-S (GAPDS), sperm movement is severely impaired, making it a potential target for non-hormonal male contraceptives.
A new study at the University of Pittsburgh found that gastric bypass is a promising treatment option for patients with GERD and obesity who have previously undergone antireflux surgery. The procedure showed significant improvements in GERD symptoms and weight loss, improving or resolving up to 70% of associated medical conditions.
A study led by UCSD biologists found that blood vessels respond to low oxygen levels, which may be a potent anti-tumor strategy. The research identified a gene, HIF-1alpha, that turns on in endothelial cells when they lack oxygen, causing them to proliferate and migrate.
A study using combined positron emission tomography and computed tomography may help detect early abnormalities in the arterial wall, potentially useful for early disease detection, prevention, and prognosis. Nuclear medicine could provide valuable information on plaque composition.
A new report provides guidance for monitoring adverse events from dietary supplements, recommending a user-friendly approach and standardized questionnaire to detect and prioritize signals. The report aims to enhance the likelihood of identifying true adverse effects and improve the effectiveness of postmarket surveillance systems.
This study found that economic hardship has similar effects on Mexican-American and European-American families, leading to higher rates of depression and marital problems. Acculturation levels were also linked to family pathways, with more acculturated mothers experiencing marital issues but less hostile parenting.
Research found no significant association between serum cotinine levels and hearing loss, contradicting previous reports. The study included 197 patients with new hearing loss and 394 without, but noted the need for further longitudinal studies to clarify the relationship.
A new study reveals that patients with asthma experiencing high variability in disease symptoms incur greater direct and indirect costs, including hospitalizations, emergency visits, and lost productivity. High variability patients also report more frequent unscheduled doctor visits and asthma interrupts daily activities more often.
Researchers at the University of Oregon have discovered a way to build a molecular 'claw' that can grab onto arsenic and sequester it, potentially leading to improved treatments for arsenic poisoning. The molecules developed by the team are known as chelators, which enable them to trap and immobilize heavy metal atoms like arsenic.
A University of Toronto study identifies immigration, lack of partner support, and readiness for hospital discharge as factors increasing new mothers' risk of developing depressive symptoms. Early detection can lead to early intervention and improved maternal and child outcomes.
This study explores the relationship between adolescent personality characteristics and environmental risk factors. It reveals that possessing protective assets like self-esteem and problem-solving skills may not be enough to counteract the negative effects of multiple risk factors across various settings. Instead, community-based inte...
Researchers discovered a complete deficiency in the CD3 epsilon chain of the T cell receptor causes SCID, leading to normal B cells but no T cells development. The absence of this chain blocks T cell development at a specific stage in the thymus.
The study found that computer vignettes are more accurate than medical records in measuring physician performance, especially in assessing an individual doctor's strengths and weaknesses. Vignettes were shown to be effective in identifying areas of improvement for physicians within a clinic.
A survey of Austrian women surgeons found that 57% were satisfied or very satisfied with their professional situation. Factors such as subspecialty, certification, age, and work location influenced job satisfaction. Optimal departmental organization was seen as crucial to reconciling professional and personal lives.
Researchers found evidence of ongoing inflammatory process in autistic brains, particularly in regions involving microglia and astroglia. Cytokine and chemokine levels were abnormally elevated, suggesting localized inflammation within the brain.
A study of 101 at-risk adolescents found that poverty, enmeshed family relationships, and depressive symptoms are associated with decreases in attachment security. Longitudinal analysis revealed that stressors overwhelmed coping abilities while cutting off support from close relationships.
A new analysis by Princeton University and Brown University scientists found that delaying action on reducing greenhouse gas emissions can result in dramatic environmental consequences. Even reaching the same target level of greenhouse gases, plans would have vastly different effects on ecosystems.
Researchers clarify that achieving an INR range of 2.0 to 3.0 is key to reducing stroke risk without increasing hemorrhage risk in atrial fibrillation patients. The study suggests that older patients with atrial fibrillation can still benefit from warfarin therapy, despite higher risks of intracranial hemorrhage.
Researchers have found brain inflammation associated with autism, suggesting immune activation plays a role in the disorder. The study's findings support the theory that immune activation is involved in autism, but further research is needed to understand its benefits and drawbacks.
A 12-month study found that people and dogs lost an average of 11 pounds and 12 pounds respectively, with the combined dog/owner group showing higher participation rates. The program improved quality of life through increased exercise and strengthened human-animal bonds.
Carborane acids, discovered by researchers at the University of California - Riverside, show great promise in various applications. They are extremely strong, yet gentle, allowing chemists to study important molecules without destroying them. This property enables the carborane acids to add hydrogen ions to weakly basic molecules, maki...
A study published in Health Services Research found that diabetes associated with early retirement, disability, and work absenteeism resulted in estimated losses of $2,800 to $22,100 per person. The total economic toll was $133.5 billion over the lifetime of this age group.
Researchers found that small fluctuations in transmission rates can lead to regular, annual epidemics due to interactions between the evolving virus and changing immunity levels. The underlying cause of seasonal fluctuations may be too small to measure.
Researchers at Cardiff University have identified an oxygen-sensing molecule, hemoxygenase-2, which helps the brain adjust breathing rates in response to low oxygen levels. The discovery has important implications for understanding and treating conditions where oxygen levels are scarce, such as following a stroke or during birth.
A subanalysis of a broader study found that patient-controlled, transdermal pain management system IONSYS TM provided similar pain relief to IV PCA morphine after gynecologic surgery. The study showed no significant differences in overall pain control, supplemental medication use, or adverse events between the two groups.
The customized ablation technique has revolutionized eye surgery, allowing patients to enjoy enhanced vision with reduced side effects. Increasing the treatment zone size and precise laser positioning have significantly improved results.
Cities in China with non-state run industries and highly educated workforces saw significant economic growth from 1990 to 1999, outperforming cities dominated by state enterprises. This is due to their ability to adapt quickly to technological innovations.
Researchers have discovered a lethal attraction between HER2-positive breast cancer cells and organs, explaining why this form of breast cancer is so invasive. The study found that breast cancer cells overexpressing HER2 proteins also ramp up production of CXCR4, leading to a strong chemical signal that attracts them to specific organs.
Researchers found that laser resurfacing can improve the look of sun-damaged skin and reduce acne scars with nonablative laser treatment. Increasing volume of botulinum exotoxin A at lower concentrations affects a larger area, making it suitable for treating larger areas like the forehead.
Researchers identified a complete deficiency in the CD3 epsilon chain of the T cell receptor causing SCID, leading to normal B cells but no T cells. Early diagnosis via bone marrow stem cell transplantation can result in a survival rate as high as 97% for patients with this mutation.
A study found that genetic variations in taste receptors affect the way people perceive the bitterness of alcohol, influencing their drinking habits. Individuals who are supertasters and can't taste the bitterness of PROP may consume more alcohol than those who are nontasters.
A new study found that alcoholics show deficits in visuoperception and frontal executive functioning even with prolonged sobriety. Researchers assessed visuoperception and perceptual learning tasks in detoxified alcoholic men compared to control men, revealing differences in cognitive processes and memory strategies.