A study of 1,346 Florida physicians found that 54.4% decreased or eliminated patient services in the previous year, with surgical specialists and obstetricians/gynecologists among those most affected. Rising insurance premiums were linked to these changes, highlighting the need for policymakers to address access to healthcare.
A study found a surprising link between depression, suicide, and epilepsy, with people with epilepsy being 4 times more likely to have attempted suicide before having a seizure. Depression was also found to increase the risk of developing epilepsy.
Experts from UWS Men's Health Information and Resource Centre argue that worsening men's health statistics are due to social causes such as education, socio-economic status, and housing stress. They advocate for a national health policy to address these underlying factors and improve men's health outcomes.
Researchers found that hermaphroditic sea slugs can resolve mating conflicts by trading sperm with their mates. This behavior allows them to balance the costs and benefits of copulation between genders. The study provides new insights into the reproductive strategies of hermaphroditic animals.
Research revealed that a massive pinyon pine die-off in the Southwest was caused by hot and dry conditions, which are predicted by global climate change models. The study found that temperatures coupled with drought led to tree mortality, affecting ecosystems for decades.
This study explores the function of dreams during significant life changes, as reported by indigenous Surinamese and Australian tribes. The research findings suggest that dreams can provide comfort and guidance during difficult decisions and transitions, such as coming to terms with death or spiritual initiation.
A study found that errors in cancer diagnosis were relatively frequent and institution-dependent, with gynecologic errors resulting in harm in 45% of cases. The majority of errors were caused by sub-optimal specimen collection, while pathologist misinterpretation ranged from 5-50%.
The North Sea efficiently absorbs 8.5 million tonnes of carbon dioxide annually through both physical and photosynthetic processes. This represents 20% of the world's total CO2 uptake, highlighting coastal seas as more efficient absorbers than open oceans.
A rapid impact package of four anti-parasitic drugs could bring tangible benefits to Africa's poorest communities by controlling seven neglected diseases. The cost of the package would be negligible, ranging from $0.07 to $0.40 per person per year.
Research suggests fetal exposure to environmental toxins may contribute to the rising incidence of asthma and allergies. A more detailed two-generation screening is needed to understand the health risks associated with early life immunotoxicity.
A team of scientists led by Dr. Alan Feduccia found that fossilized patterns resembling feathers are more likely skin-related tissues, contradicting the theory of feathered dinosaurs. The study also revealed embryos of developing birds have distinct wing structures, making it unlikely for birds to evolve from flightless dinosaurs.
A study has found that EBCT scans can detect congenital abnormalities, including coronary artery anomalies, more accurately than traditional catheter angiography. This is especially important as it helps identify patients at risk of a heart attack or sudden death.
Researchers found elevated C-reactive protein levels frequently accompanied traditional heart disease risk factors like smoking, obesity, and high blood pressure. High CRP levels were more common among those with at least one risk factor for heart disease.
The study aims to assess the extent of use of the program in three states, compare it to traditional end-of-life care planning, and examine its impact on symptom management. Researchers will gather data through phone surveys and medical chart reviews to inform strategies for improving end-of-life programs nationwide.
A study found that midlife obesity is significantly associated with an increased risk of developing dementia and Alzheimer's disease later in life. High systolic blood pressure, high total cholesterol levels, and clustering of these vascular risk factors also contribute to this risk.
A team of experts is investigating the damage caused by wind-driven waves and overtopping, as well as emergency patch effectiveness and decision-making processes behind levee configurations. The study aims to improve levee design to withstand potential terrorist attacks and natural disasters.
A recent Penn study found that astrocytes, a type of star-shaped glial cell, play a direct role in regulating communication between neurons. The study suggests that astrocytes modulate the level of adenosine, a signaling molecule involved in controlling wake-to-sleep transitions and epileptic seizures.
A University of Michigan Health System study found that pharmacies in predominantly minority and low-income areas have lower availability of opioid analgesic pain medications. The gap is pronounced, with 86.9% of white ZIP code pharmacies carrying sufficient supplies compared to 54.2% in minority ZIP codes.
The National Science Foundation has renewed funding for the University of California - Santa Barbara's Materials Research and Engineering Center (MRL) at $20.52 million over six years. This grant supports interdisciplinary research, education, and outreach initiatives in materials science.
A six-year study found that consuming one or more fish meals per week was associated with a slower rate of cognitive decline. The study, which analyzed data from over 1,000 Chicago residents aged 65 and older, suggests that eating fish may help protect against age-related cognitive decline.
Research by Ellen Rutten explores how Russia has been portrayed as a young woman of flesh and blood, with a focus on the role of the state and intellectual elite. The study reveals that modern writers have increasingly emphasized the sexual dimension of this metaphor, assigning it to Russian rulers from Lenin to Putin.
Researchers found that brain aromatase levels influence aggression and sex hormone conversion in social fish. The study suggests that social cues initiate the sex change process in the brain, leading to behavioral and gonadal transformation.
Researchers have discovered that eating fatty foods can dampen inflammation in the gut by stimulating the production of cholecystokinin, a hormone that sends signals to the brain and immune cells. This process may provide a way to reduce inflammatory complications after surgery.
Recent discoveries in China have led to new questions about the claim of direct derivation between birds and theropod dinosaurs. Researchers found no evidence for protofeathers on dinosaurs and suggest decomposition patterns may be mistaken for feathers.
Researchers found that adult males who experienced pheromones during critical periods exhibited dominance over young males, even if they never encountered them again. The study suggests a key role for chemical signals in shaping fruit flies' behavior.
Researchers at Mount Sinai School of Medicine have developed a new gene therapy technique that permanently corrects genetic diseases like PKU by inserting genes into specific sequences between existing genes. The technique was tested on mice and successfully cured the disease with just three intravenous injections.
Performing a sentinel lymph node biopsy as an outpatient procedure prior to mastectomy can help guide the optimal surgical procedure for patients. This approach allows for more informed decisions regarding radiation therapy and reconstruction, potentially improving cosmetic results.
Researchers at the University of Manchester have shown that IL-1ra protects brain cells from injury and death in laboratory studies. The first small trial of IL-1ra in patients has demonstrated promising results, which may lead to a full trial next year to test its effectiveness.
A new study finds that heme regulates ferritin gene expression, controlling both iron and antioxidant metabolism. This discovery could lead to treatments for various chronic illnesses.
Research by Lucian Peppelenbos reveals that Chile's free market economy is built on centuries-old patriarchal structures, providing opportunities for small businesses and unskilled laborers. Despite inefficiencies, this system ensures access to the world market for small farmers.
Researchers found that AIDS selectively attacks the brain's motor, language and judgment centers, but leaves other areas intact. Brain scans revealed specific patterns of tissue damage correlated with physical and mental symptoms, including impaired motor coordination and slowed reflexes.
A study by Laura Potts found that opinions on breast cancer causes are divided, with theories citing genetic, hormonal, and environmental factors. The research team recommends building common ground for preventative policies amidst concerns about government inaction.
A moderate exercise regimen, equivalent to 12 miles of brisk walking per week, can significantly improve fitness levels and reduce cardiovascular disease risks. The study found that even slight increases in intensity or duration yield greater health benefits.
A new report reveals women in 'male' careers still face significant barriers, including institutional sexism and lack of female scientist role models. The study found only one in ten women work in research and development jobs, compared to 60% of men. To address this, the report recommends establishing a platform for female scientists,...
Researchers at UCSB will develop nanoparticles that attach to specific tumor cells using 'biolinkers' from the Burnham Institute. The goal is to enhance cancer treatment efficacy through innovative inter-disciplinary work.
A study found that CT colonography can detect cancer lesions and polyps with nearly the same sensitivity as colonoscopy, avoiding fatal perforations but potentially leading to more cancer-related deaths. The method's higher cost is offset by its non-invasive nature and appeal to patients.
Researchers at Kent State University will examine nanometer-scale interactions between liquid crystal living cells, DNA, and proteins to reveal new information about biological systems. The study could lead to applications for real-time microbial detection and controlled drug delivery.
Researchers discovered that Australians with small blood vessel changes in their eyes were 70% more likely to experience a stroke over seven years. The study's findings suggest that eye examinations could help predict stroke risk, providing a potential window for early intervention.
Researchers discovered that closely related cichlid species use different subsets of visual pigments to shape their color vision. Each species primarily expresses three cone pigment genes encoded by its genome, allowing for unique adaptations to their environments and ecological niches.
A team of scientists studied the motor network of marine snails and found that higher-order neurons employ a combinatorial mechanism to produce variations in movement parameters. This hierarchical architecture allows for the generation of large numbers of behavioral variants, a hallmark of brain function.
Researchers found that mating between two less harmful fungal strains of the same sex produced a more virulent form, which has taken hold and is spreading. The fungus, C. gattii, infects individuals with normal immunity, causing symptoms like persistent headaches and coughing.
Researchers have identified a protein called CCL5 that protects macrophages from premature death during respiratory viral infections, allowing them to continue fighting the infection. This discovery may lead to new methods to hasten recovery and reduce symptoms of influenza and the common cold.
Researchers have discovered the SEPS1 (Selenoprotein S) gene's role in inflammation, which is a common component of many human disorders. The study found that a genetic variation in the SEPS1 gene can lead to higher levels of inflammation and increased risk of diseases like cardiovascular disease and Type 2 diabetes.
Research Australia highlights 12 pressing health concerns affecting Australian children, including rising obesity rates, asthma, and increasing cases of child abuse. The list aims to raise awareness about these issues and promote action from researchers to improve children's health.
Researchers discovered the physics behind coastal wind jets, which can gust up to 40% higher than normal wind speeds. This knowledge could aid sailors in planning strategies and improve weather forecasting for wind energy and flood prevention.
Research shows that Viagra reduced demand for seals, sea horses, and tigers used in TCM treatments. The study surveyed 256 Chinese men aged 50-76, finding more men previously used TCM treatments than current users.
A new GM mosquito sexing technique allows for the quick identification of males, paving the way for releasing sterile males to control mosquito populations. This could lead to a significant reduction in malaria cases and population growth.
Researchers at UCLA have developed a new type of solar cell made from plastic that is cheaper to produce than traditional silicon-based cells. The cell has an efficiency rating of 4.4% and aims to reach 15-20% efficiency in the future.
Scientists from Boston Children's Hospital successfully engineered tracheas using mesenchymal stem cells from amniotic fluid, allowing fetal lambs to breathe spontaneously after birth. This breakthrough technique aims to fix life-threatening tracheal defects in utero.
Researchers at UTMB use thermodynamic calculations to predict the ability of various osmolytes to protect proteins in cells under stress. This technique has significant implications for understanding protein folding and unfolding processes in disorders like Alzheimer's disease.
Scientists on the IODP Tahiti expedition are analyzing fossil corals to study past global sea level changes and their impact on climate. The research aims to understand the effects of human activity on Earth's environment by examining coral records from a tectonically stable region.
A team of scientists from New Mexico State University and Wake Forest University has achieved a 5.2% solar energy efficiency level in organic solar cells, a significant improvement over previous attempts. This breakthrough could lead to the development of cheaper, flexible plastic-based solar panels within four to five years.
Researchers simulated conditions of three building types in six cities and found that improved air tightness would result in energy savings ranging from 9-37%. The study suggests that increased airtightness can lead to smaller but still significant cost savings in warmer climates.
Researchers have discovered that gold nanoparticles can selectively target and kill cancer cells by absorbing light, offering a potential solution for early detection and treatment of various cancers. The technique is simple, inexpensive, and non-toxic to human cells.
Scientists generate 3D image of coproporphyrinogen oxidase (CPO) at atomic level, shedding light on mutations causing hereditary coproporphyria. The study provides insights into the heme biosynthesis pathway and its role in rare diseases.
A mutant rat model is being used to study the early vascular changes caused by obesity, which can lead to peripheral vascular disease. The research aims to prevent this condition and improve quality of life for those affected.
The NIH has renewed its license with Genomatix, expanding the contract to include Microarray analysis Package ChipInspector. This move strengthens research capabilities in gene expression and regulation, facilitating high-level scientific results.
Researchers from UMD and NIST developed a new analytical tool based on thermal ionization mass spectrometry (TIMS) to study seasonal changes in sulfur particulate composition. The technique requires much smaller snow samples than standard analysis techniques, allowing for more precise measurements of sulfur isotopes.
Reducing resident physician work-hours may lead to significant cost savings, with estimates suggesting $673 million to $1.1 billion in annual savings nationwide. To break even or save money, however, harmful errors would need to decrease by 19-31%.
A retrospective study found that patients treated with oral ZYVOX had lower healthcare resource utilization and costs compared to those treated with vancomycin. The average total cost per patient was $4,630 less for ZYVOX patients.