A national survey found that 96% of those who received at least one massage in 2004 have favorable feelings toward massage therapists. The profession is also gaining acceptance among younger adults, with 58% of those under age 50 holding favorable views.
Researchers Jordi Faraudo and Fernando Bresme discover hydration force's origins in water interactions with electrostatically charged molecules. Understanding this force is crucial for biomedical research and the development of new drugs and biochemical processes.
A recent study found that youth with HIV who were treated with highly active antiretroviral therapies (HAART) between 1999 and 2000 reported having more sexual partners, unprotected sex, and drug use compared to those treated before 1996. The researchers suggest targeted interventions are needed to address these risk behaviors.
A large multicohort study of HAART-naive patients found significant reductions in AIDS incidence and opportunistic events, with greater declines for viral etiologies.
Researchers found that 21 snake venom toxins originated from proteins in various body tissues, including brain, eye, and liver. This discovery sheds light on the evolution of these potent toxins and their potential use in medical research.
A six-month study led by Helen Mayberg found that deep brain stimulation improved mood and reduced symptoms in severely depressed patients, with three achieving remission. The procedure was well-tolerated, with no psychological side effects reported.
A study published in Annals of Neurology found a strong association between dolichoectasia, a rare blood vessel disorder, and small vessel disease, a significant cause of lacunar or 'mini' strokes. The research may offer new insights into the causes and treatment of this condition.
Two studies examine the prevention of type 2 diabetes mellitus, a condition that affects millions of Americans. Researchers found positive lifestyle changes lowered risk among nonsmokers but not smokers. A computer simulation determined the diet-exercise program and metformin therapy were cost-effective options.
A recent study published in Geology found that Kilauea's sulfur dioxide emissions can cause bronchial irritation, trigger asthma attacks, and potentially lead to cardiac problems. The researchers recommend establishing monitoring in the region directly south of the volcano to better understand the health risks.
Researchers discovered a retrovirus in the chimp and gorilla genome that didn't appear in human DNA. The virus, which affected ape species between three to four million years ago, may have driven evolutionary changes in chimps and gorillas.
A study of surgically implanted electrodes in patients with refractory depression found significant clinical response in four out of six participants, with sustained improvement through six months. The technique involves high-frequency electrical stimulation to modulate brain activity in the subgenual cingulate region.
A recent study published in the Archives of Internal Medicine found that medication errors are a significant issue in hospitalized patients. The study examined 151 patients who took at least four prescription medicines at home and had unplanned hospital admissions, revealing that 53.6% had at least one unintended medication discrepancy.
The study found finasteride reduced the incidence of prostate cancer by 24.8% compared to a placebo, potentially saving thousands of lives over ten years. Despite an increase in high-grade tumors, the analysis shows that this benefit outweighs the potential drawbacks.
Researchers have deciphered a crucial link between genetic microdeletions and DiGeorge syndrome, shedding light on the disease's pathogenesis. The study reveals that TGF signaling plays a pivotal role in neural crest development, which is disrupted in DiGeorge patients leading to characteristic malformations.
Steve Granick and Zhiqun Lin found that patterns of high fidelity form spontaneously through evaporation of a droplet in a cylindrical mount. The process results in concentric rings with regular spacing, controlled by the material's size and surface properties.
A study published in Nature Structural & Molecular Biology has uncovered the structure of resuscitation promoting factor (Rpf), a key player in TB bacteria. The discovery holds promise for developing new methods to 'wake-up' dormant bacteria, allowing antibiotics to kill and cure the disease.
Scientists have made a significant breakthrough in understanding the mechanism behind African sleeping sickness by discovering a new protein called JBP2. This protein is believed to play an important role in regulating the production of base J, a unique modified DNA base that enables trypanosomes to evade the human immune system.
A Carnegie Mellon study discovered that participants appearing near the end of juried competitions receive higher marks from judges. The serial position effect may apply to everyday evaluations such as job interviews and student exams.
A study of 34 metropolitan areas found that San Francisco and New York City had high percentages of people who walk or bike for recreation and transportation, respectively. Parkland acreage was also positively associated with walking and bicycling levels, suggesting a link between urban green spaces and physical activity.
A University of Pittsburgh study documents an increase in genital herpes infections linked to receptive oral sex and vaginal intercourse. The risk is higher among young women, who are increasingly susceptible to HSV-1 infection due to a decline in childhood cases.
Research found that hormone therapy for prostate cancer can lead to temporary declines in visual memory and recognition speed. However, cognitive function appears to be well preserved despite these changes.
A study found that middle-aged women with more active health care involvement had lower intima-media thickness and plaque buildup, reducing the risk of heart disease. The research team followed 370 women from the Healthy Women Study and used B-mode ultrasound to measure pre-clinical cardiovascular disease signs.
A recent MIT study analyzed 17 peer-reviewed papers on melatonin and found it to be a significant sleep aid in small doses. The study challenges the common assumption that high doses of melatonin are ineffective, highlighting the need for more accurate dosing information.
A recent study in Bosnia-Herzegovina found that child sex trafficking is often fueled by extreme poverty and family involvement, rather than organized crime. The report highlights the need to address poverty and ethnic discrimination to reduce exploitation of impoverished children.
A study of 559 college-age women found that despite common perceptions, a significant number have not undergone cosmetic surgery. The research suggests that those who care more about physical appearance are more likely to view cosmetic surgery as an option.
The US chemical industry saw significant earnings growth in Q4 2004, with total earnings rising 52% year-over-year to $9.58 billion. Sales increased 15.1% to $139.7 billion, driving aggregate profitability to 6.9%. Rising selling prices and strong demand fundamentals contributed to the growth.
A new study found that pre-diabetes prevention efforts are worth every penny, with a one-on-one weight loss and exercise program showing a 58% reduction in Type 2 diabetes risk. Lifestyle interventions could delay the onset of diabetes by an average of 11 years and reduce the risk of developing diabetes by 20%.
A new study on Rhesus monkeys found that a gender gap in spatial memory decreases with age and can be overcome with simple training. Young female monkeys showed significant improvements in spatial memory when trained, closing the gap between males and females.
Researchers identified the EYA4 gene as the cause of dilated cardiomyopathy preceded by sensorineural hearing loss. The mutant protein compromises cardiac function by reducing its presence in the nucleus, leading to dramatic heart failure and pumping velocity reduction.
Gregory Margulis has been recognized for his monumental contributions to algebra and its applications in various fields. He will share this year's Wolf Prize with Sergei Novikov at the University of Maryland.
A Yale research group found that CTCL cells require antigenic stimuli delivered by Langerhans cells to replicate. The study identified cryptic self-antigens presented by LC to CTCL receptors, stimulating rapid division and regulatory T cell formation.
A Johns Hopkins Medicine study successfully integrated the Affinity/Avidity test with the STARHS protocol to detect new HIV cases. The dual testing method showed a significant reduction in false positive diagnoses, resulting in more accurate monitoring of new infections.
Researchers at U-M Health System found that disease severity in patients with ulcerative colitis can be accurately evaluated without frequent lower endoscopies. The study suggests using non-invasive indices, such as patient-reported symptoms, to monitor disease activity and spare patients the discomfort of regular endoscopies.
Dr. Robert Duster cautions against FDA approval of BiDil due to its potential for racial bias and inadequate genetic markers. He argues that a more nuanced approach is needed to ensure effective treatment for diverse populations.
Research reveals that SV40 large T antigen binds to tumor suppressor Fbw7, hijacking its function to promote tumorigenesis. This interaction highlights the importance of Fbw7 as a potential therapeutic target for cancer treatment strategies.
King Middle School took first place in the 2005 IEEE-USA Future City Competition with its innovative 'NET' communications system, capable of translating any language. The students received a $100 U.S. Savings Bond and awards from the IEEE.
Researchers from Johns Hopkins Medicine found a second reservoir of HIV that harbors unique viral variants, suggesting lifelong treatment is necessary to prevent re-emergence. The archival virus has not mutated to become drug-resistant, according to recent findings.
The US is expected to have over 70 million people over 65 by 2030, creating a shortage of trained geriatric specialists. Only 27 of 91 specialties require specific geriatric training, with modest expectations.
The 43rd edition of the Directory of Geoscience Departments features a state-sorted listing of 1,169 geoscience departments worldwide, including 879 U.S.-based departments that grant degrees. The directory also provides faculty contact information and listings for U.S. state geological surveys.
A recent study found that the LRRK2 gene mutation is associated with Parkinson's disease in several families, indicating a genetic component of the disease. The mutation was identified in 22 out of 42 family members who carried the G2019S mutation, and all shared a common ancestral pattern.
A new study found that genetic amplification (NAAT) testing detects HIV more effectively than standard antibody testing in urban settings. The test identified four individuals with acute HIV infections who had previously tested negative, highlighting its potential to prevent transmission and improve early detection.
A pilot study by Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory researchers gathers baseline information on subway workers’ exposure to airborne metals. The study aims to determine if the elevated metal levels pose a health concern for transit workers.
A team led by Steven L. Salzberg and Michael B. Eisen found three new Wolbachia species in the Drosophila genome database, including Wolbachia wAna, wSim, and wMoj.
Research at Joslin Diabetes Center reveals that prenatal undernutrition can lead to impaired insulin production and higher blood glucose levels, setting the stage for type 2 diabetes. The study found that low-birth-weight mice had abnormal insulin secretion patterns, leading to permanent impairment.
Researchers investigate iron's impact on phytoplankton growth in the sub-Arctic Pacific, a crucial nutrient for ocean life. The findings could inform strategies to mitigate global warming by addressing the ocean's ecological dynamics.
The discovery of Neuquenraptor argentinus provides the first uncontroversial evidence that raptors roamed beyond the Northern Hemisphere. The find reveals a common raptor ancestor likely existed on both Gondwana and Laurasia supercontinents before they split apart.
A study found that PRO 2000 gel reduced HIV and HSV infectivity by at least 1000-fold, with no significant inflammatory response. The results suggest a potential safe and effective vaginal microbicide for preventing sexually transmitted infections.
Researchers at Fox Chase Cancer Center have identified an immune-system mutation in mice that can help them understand how T cells specialize to do different jobs. The mutation, which affects the helper-deficient (HD) mice strain, was found to redirect immature T cells towards killer-cell pathways.
Researchers find that mice with a double dose of IGF2 develop more precursor cells in the colon, doubling cancer risk when combined with a colon-cancer-causing genetic mutation. This epigenetic problem may contribute to colon cancer development.
Cassini mission data reveals the formation of molecular oxygen atmospheres in Saturn's rings without life present. This finding suggests that oxygen can be produced through non-biological means, complicating the search for life beyond Earth.
Researchers analyzed historical photographs to understand human-landscape interaction, revealing a link between tree clearing and erosion. The study found that riparian zones have improved over the past 30 years, benefiting stream health and ecosystem health.
Researchers have successfully created artificial atoms using superconducting materials, allowing for the measurement of quantum properties in two interconnected devices. This breakthrough enables the development of simple logic operations using artificial atoms, a crucial step toward building superconducting quantum computers.
The USDA will use NIST's Building for Environmental and Economic Sustainability (BEES) tool to evaluate the environmental and economic performance of biobased products over their life cycles. Biobased products made from renewable materials will be preferred in federal procurement.
A study found that over 28% of elderly individuals received potentially inappropriate medications, with women receiving more than men. The use of these medications has not decreased, highlighting the need for further understanding of their rationale.
A study found that paid tobacco industry consultants dominated the journal's editorial board, influencing research on environmental tobacco smoke. 61% of relevant papers published during this period had positive conclusions favorable to the tobacco industry.
A new study published in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society found that spouse caregiving situations are associated with potentially harmful behavior, compromised mental and physical health, and increased mortality risk. Researchers highlight the need for screening and intervention efforts to address this issue.
As millions of children with special health-care needs turn 18, researchers warn of a culture clash between pediatric and adult medicine. The influx is putting pressure on healthcare systems, with patients facing difficulties in receiving adequate pain relief and accessing comprehensive care.
A study published in Arthritis & Rheumatism reveals a significant association between serum hyaluronan (HA) levels and osteoarthritis severity. The research, conducted on over 3,000 volunteers, suggests that HA levels may serve as a biomarker for diagnosing osteoarthritis.
New imaging technologies provide non-invasive diagnostic tools for orthopedic conditions, allowing for early disease detection and objective outcome measures. These technologies enable precise quantification of bone loss and synovial reaction in osteoarthritis, facilitating more effective treatment strategies.
Research in post-tsunami Thailand reveals key findings on building materials, structures, and orientations that can help minimize damage. Elevated structures, reinforced concrete, and strong foundations are among the essential elements to consider when designing coastal constructions.