Researchers found that rheumatoid arthritis patients are three times more likely to have been hospitalized for an acute heart attack during the two years before diagnosis. They were also twice as likely to experience unrecognized heart attacks and sudden cardiac deaths after diagnosis.
A recent US study reveals that a significant portion of African Americans hold conspiracy theories about HIV/AIDS, which may frustrate efforts to combat the epidemic. Public health officials need to address these concerns and develop culturally sensitive strategies to reach at-risk populations.
Researchers discovered that failing hearts experience an energy deficit due to a 50% reduction in ATP energy supplied by creatine kinase. This finding suggests new treatments may target the energy supply to improve heart function.
A study published in Science identified interleukin-1Beta (IL-1â) as a major cause of severe inflammation in mouse models of Crohn's disease, which is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease affecting over 500,000 Americans. High levels of IL-1â were found in mice with mutant NOD2, a genetic defect linked to 50% of Crohn's cases.
The Center for Advanced Microelectronics Manufacturing (CAMM) will combine resources from academia, government, and industry to speed up microelectronics manufacturing research and development in a roll-to-roll format. CAMM's R2R research capabilities include flexible displays, 'foldable' radars, and protective clothing.
The National Invasive Species Council (NISC) partners with NASA to improve invasive species management. NASA provides Earth observations and predictive models to enhance partner abilities, improving accuracy and timeliness of predictive maps and plant species distribution forecasts.
A team of researchers has discovered a web-like system of gas clouds containing the missing baryons, which are thought to make up half of the universe's mass. The clouds, detected using X-ray telescope data, have temperatures of around 1 million degrees Celsius and are spread over vast distances.
Researchers found that dietary kelp increased the length of rat estrous cycles by 37%, which is associated with lower risk of breast, ovarian and endometrial cancers. Kelp may act as an estrogen antagonist, reducing estradiol levels and potentially lowering breast cancer risk.
A new study found that faster reaction times were associated with longer life expectancy than higher IQ scores. The research built on earlier studies showing a link between lower IQs and early mortality. The study of middle-aged subjects suggested that processing information efficiency may be a key factor in predicting life span.
A study by Harvard Medical School and Harvard Law School found that illness and medical bills contribute to at least 46.2% of all bankruptcy filings, with families often facing unaffordable co-payments and lost income from prolonged illnesses.
McGill researchers identified a link between heat-induced breakdown of amino acids and sugars in food, producing the potential carcinogen furan. Traces of furan have been found in processed and cooked products, particularly canned and bottled foods, but quantities are below considered dangerous thresholds.
The American Heart Association publishes a blueprint to improve stroke care in the US, aiming for seamless transitions and integrated team-based care. The initiative aims to overcome geographical boundaries and increase access to high-quality stroke care for all citizens, regardless of their economic circumstances.
Researchers found that male Cassin's finches sing more in response to the loss of a prospective mate, but less when females are present or infertile. The scientists conclude that males temper their efforts based on the likelihood of a payoff.
A new radioactive antibody treatment called Bexxar has shown promising results in a study, rivaling traditional chemotherapy regimens for follicular lymphoma. The treatment achieved a 95% response rate and 75% complete remission in patients with advanced-stage disease.
A recent study found that smoking reduces wealth by approximately $410 per year for every smoker, with the wealth gap growing over time. The study analyzed data from about 8,900 people and found that non-smokers had a net worth of around $50,000 in 1998, while heavy smokers had significantly lower wealth.
A recent audit revealed that despite almost all NHS trusts having a stroke unit, many patients spend little to no time on the unit. Key features of effective stroke units include coordinated multidisciplinary rehabilitation and staff with specialized interests.
The CCEN team will investigate how social, emotional and cultural factors influence learning, as well as the mechanisms of human learning across contexts. The center aims to carry out basic research on how people learn and connect scientists with practitioners to effect meaningful change in the lives of students.
The star-nosed mole's exceptional foraging ability is attributed to its star-shaped appendages that ring its nose, allowing it to detect small prey quickly. By minimizing handling time, the mole achieves a net energy 'profit' with a diet of insect larvae and other small food sources.
A third of European cancer patients use CAM, with women, younger patients, and those with poor prognosis using it more often. The most commonly used CAM therapies were herbs, homeopathy, and spiritual therapies.
Hermes A. Kontos and John R. Marler receive prestigious awards, while Hong Li and Shelagh Coutts win research accolades for their work on stroke mechanisms and treatment.
Scientists at NIMH have discovered newborn neurons in adult rat cortex that communicate via GABA, suggesting potential new treatments for depression and anxiety. The discovery adds to the scientific debate over adult neurogenesis and has implications for understanding brain disorders such as Alzheimer's and schizophrenia.
According to research, the average toll of US road deaths is highest on July 4th, with alcohol involvement increasing on this day compared to other days. The analysis also found that New Year's Day and Saturdays are associated with higher numbers of fatalities, highlighting the importance of vigilance during peak hours.
Scientists at Ohio State University and colleagues have discovered a sizeable chunk of the universe's missing baryons, estimated to match the amount that went missing 10 billion years ago. The finding suggests dark matter may be responsible for the gas's presence in super-hot rivers surrounding galaxies.
A team of Wisconsin scientists discovered molecular switches that govern the development and evolution of form in animals. The study found that genetic changes to these switches can produce diverse patterns and features, such as spots on fruit fly wings or stripes on zebras, which confer advantages for survival and reproductive success.
A new study in JAMA found that over 75% of patients with malignant brain tumors underwent common procedures like radiation therapy, MRI, or surgery. However, the study also discovered that some practice patterns contradict published guidelines, such as the infrequent use of chemotherapy and anti-depressant medications.
A survey of over 1600 Norwegian doctors found that male surgeons were most likely to make mistakes, while many struggled to criticize their colleagues. The study highlights the need for open discussion among medical professionals to improve quality and safety in healthcare.
A recent study found that blacks in the southern US are more likely to die from stroke than whites, with African Americans aged 45-64 facing a 51% higher risk. The study analyzed stroke death data from 1997-2001 and compared regional differences in mortality rates.
A study published in Genes and Development reveals a novel molecular player influencing colon cancer initiation. The research found that combining Foxl1 deficiency with an inactive APC gene accelerated tumor formation, highlighting the significance of mesenchymal-epithelial signaling in gastrointestinal tumorigenesis.
Researchers at the Mayo Clinic have successfully created an 'obedient virus' that can specifically target and destroy cancer cells, paving the way for potential use in human therapies. The virus was engineered to seek out cancer cells instead of healthy cells, and has been shown to be effective in laboratory tests.
A research team has published a paper in Science that uses molecular biology to fill gaps in the evolutionary history of bats. The study reveals that megabats originated from four major lineages of microbats, which emerged around 52-50 million years ago.
Researchers discovered a potent Vitamin A derivative, ATRA, that suppresses growth and induces cell death in childhood brain cancer cells. The gene OTX2 is abnormally amplified in medulloblastoma tumors, which can be targeted by ATRA-based therapy.
Researchers found no significant association between antidepressant use and suicide rates in the US. Instead, they suggest that untreated depression is a major contributor to suicidal behavior, particularly among men and young people.
Studies show that hospitals implementing GWTG–Stroke programs experience significant improvements in secondary preventive measures, including anticoagulation for atrial fibrillation and treatment with aspirin-like drugs. Timely intravenous tPA use also increases by up to 89%.
Researchers have found a new protein, TAJ/TROY, that acts as part of the receptor complex in neurons responding to growth-inhibitory molecules. This discovery may provide insights into designing therapeutic strategies to block myelin inhibition and promote regeneration of spinal cord or brain tissue after injury.
A study of 61,688 women found that adding clinical breast examination to mammography screening detected an additional 25 cancers, but also led to false positive reports and increased biopsies in women with dense breasts
A study led by Elena Bagley and Macdonald Christie found that a transporter molecule for the neurotransmitter GABA is responsible for opioid withdrawal symptoms. Inhibiting this molecule or protein kinase A eliminates hyperexcitability in PAG neurons.
Scientists have identified a positive feedback loop in rat whiskers that helps gather sensory information, potentially leading to new treatments for blepharospasm. The discovery could also deepen understanding of the human eyeblink circuit and its connection to neural circuits.
A study published in the American Journal of Roentgenology found that MRI is an excellent choice for diagnosing pregnant women with abdominal pain due to its high accuracy and safety from radiation. The study analyzed 29 patients and diagnosed 14 different causes of abdominal pain, including appendicitis and ovarian cysts.
A new study confirms that patients who stop taking aspirin after a stroke are at increased risk of another ischemic stroke. Researchers found that 77% of strokes related to aspirin discontinuation occurred within the first eight days of stopping the medication.
Researchers developed a simple risk model using three measures from laboratory blood tests and vital signs to gauge mortality risk in heart failure patients. The tool was tested on over 100,000 hospitalizations and found to accurately distinguish between low, intermediate, and high risk patients.
A team of researchers has identified a key mechanism in genetic inheritance during cell division, where kinetochore proteins form rings around microtubules to promote assembly, stability, and bundling. This ring formation may be essential for maintaining chromosome segregation during mitosis.
A new JAMA study found that brain tumor treatment varies greatly among patients, with inconsistent use of chemotherapy and anti-convulsant medication. The study also highlights the need for improved communication between healthcare providers and patients, as well as increased participation in clinical trials.
Researchers found a genetic variant of the CYP1A1 gene associated with lower estrogen levels, higher bone resorption markers, and lower bone density in hip bones. This variant may serve as an important genetic marker for identifying women at high risk of osteoporosis.
A study by McGill University researchers found that COX-2 inhibitors like Vioxx increase the risk of heart attack by 24% in users who have not previously suffered a heart attack. Aspirin use can help mitigate this risk, but only in those taking low doses of Vioxx.
Scientists have created a mathematical model that accurately describes the evolution and movement of tectonic microplates, which are dynamic whirlpools of ocean floor found at mid-ocean ridges. The model uses a wax tank to simulate the ocean floor, replicating patterns seen in the Earth's crust.
The UCSD study reveals that mentally ill homeless individuals are more common than expected, with a disproportionate impact on African Americans and Latinos. Treatment for substance abuse and access to public-funded health benefits may help reduce homelessness in this population.
A large-scale study found that frequent exposure to ultraviolet rays from the sun, lamps, and solariums reduces the risk of developing non-Hodgkin's lymphoma by 30-40%. Researchers analyzed responses from over 6,000 patients and healthy individuals in Sweden and Denmark.
The new center aims to connect scientists with teachers to effect meaningful change in student learning outcomes. The CCEN will conduct basic research on how people learn, focusing on brain mechanisms involved in language, science, reading, and math acquisition.
Breast implant infections can occur due to various risk factors, including capsular contraction. Experts propose diagnostic and management strategies for such problems. Antibiotics may prevent capsular contraction caused by subclinical infection.
Researchers discovered a new way to stop smallpox by inhibiting host cell signaling pathways. Inhibitors already used in human cancer therapy may have widespread applications in treating viral infections and protecting against smallpox.
Jeffrey A. Hubbell will receive the Elmer Gaden Award, a $1000 prize, and an acknowledgement in an upcoming journal issue. The award lecture will be held on March 15, 2005, at the American Chemical Society's National Meeting in San Diego.
Researchers have discovered a single human stem cell population derived from the bone marrow that can regenerate myocardium after myocardial infarction. This breakthrough has significant implications for treating heart failure and major morbidity associated with myocardial infarction.
Researchers found that positive emotions, such as joy and happiness, enhance recognition of members from other races, reducing bias. This 'broadening effect' helps individuals see a bigger picture, promoting inclusivity and noticing more details.
Researchers have discovered a rare plant compound, SL0101, that inhibits the RSK protein, which is linked to breast cancer cell growth. The compound, found in Forsteronia refracta, prevents the growth of breast cancer cells without affecting normal cells.
Researchers have identified a possible strategy for treating acute viral infections by blocking cellular signaling pathways that viruses depend on for reproduction. The approach, using an experimental cancer drug called CI-1033, has shown promising results in laboratory samples and lab mice infected with viruses similar to smallpox.
Researchers found that two drugs, risperidone and olanzapine, have the best evidence for effectiveness in treating dementia-related behaviors. However, these effects are modest and come with a risk of stroke. Non-drug therapies like music therapy and caregiver education may also be effective.
Researchers have developed a system to detect landmines using sound waves, while also studying the water-absorbing properties of aged soot and its potential impact on climate models. Additionally, scientists have made new discoveries about natural lightning, including X-ray emissions during thunderstorms.
Researchers found specific differences in responses to inhaled corticosteroids and leukotriene receptor antagonists in children. Children with low pulmonary function and elevated allergic inflammation responded better to inhaled corticosteroids.
Researchers propose a new antiviral therapy targeting the smallpox growth factor, demonstrating effectiveness in lowering morbidity and mortality in infected mice. In another study, human bone marrow-derived stem cells are shown to regenerate myocardium after myocardial infarction, providing a potential approach for heart repair.
Scientists have observed a novel superfluid state in a lithium-6 atom gas, exhibiting properties that challenge traditional bosonic and fermionic behaviors. This breakthrough discovery has implications for the development of room temperature superconductors and our understanding of exotic plasmas.