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.
A new Standard Reference Material from NIST will help clinical genetics labs accurately count fragile-X repeat sequences. The SRM 2399 consists of nine DNA samples with triplet repeats ranging from 20 to 118, ensuring quality control and check on test procedures.
Researchers analyzed viral RNA from 39 couples in a long-term HIV study to identify variations of the virus that were transmitted during sex. The findings showed distinct patterns in HIV-1 variant diversity for male-to-female versus female-to-male transmission.
A comprehensive review of subway systems reveals potential for health and safety hazards, including terrorism, transmission of infectious diseases, and high noise levels. The study highlights the need for risk assessment studies to mitigate these risks and improve subway safety.
Researchers will conduct detailed measurements and analysis of contaminants in building plumbing systems to inform effective responses to contamination incidents. The study's findings will support the development of EPA guidelines for protecting drinking water supplies within buildings.
The 21st-century model of healthcare focuses on the family before and after genetic testing, clustering genomic disorders based on similar patterns of psychosocial demands. This approach incorporates key disease variables to inform effective treatment interventions.
The Lancet report highlights the 'silent humanitarian crisis' of 3900 children dying daily from inadequate sanitation and safe drinking water. The authors recommend scaling up efforts to expand coverage by 2015 without significant financial investment or technological breakthroughs.
A recent study of 1,323 women reveals a significant gap in osteoporosis treatment based on fracture history. Women with past fractures are at a higher risk of future osteoporosis, emphasizing the importance of considering fracture history in treatment decisions.
Fuel cells could power laptops for a week, reducing recharging time, and provide efficient energy for cars, buses, and mobile devices. UNC researchers are developing liquid precursors to enhance PEM membrane performance, paving the way for more effective fuel cell manufacturing.
Vaccination of healthy children in the US and Canada shows limited efficacy in reducing disease spread, hospitalizations, and complications. The study's findings suggest that immunization of very young children does not support a reduction in mortality and community transmission.
The new test structures provide a wider range of reference feature sizes and are measured more precisely than previously available materials. Industry can use these reference materials to calibrate tools to reliably measure microprocessor-device gates.
A study of 294 injection drug users found that those who had injected for over two years were two and a half times more likely to access syringes from safe sources. Safe injection and disposal practices were not associated with HIV, hepatitis C, or syringe sharing.
Countries like Canada, USA, Australia, and New Zealand have adopted stringent policies for compulsory screening of new entrants for TB and HIV. However, UK public inquiry concluded that such a policy would not be effective at protecting public health.
Scientists observed a breakdown in neuronal transport, leading to abnormal protein buildup and neuron failure. The study suggests that impaired axonal transport may be an early indicator of Alzheimer's disease.
A novel self-replicating microorganism, nanobacteria, has been linked to kidney stone formation in astronauts and may pose an infectious risk. The discovery provides additional clues to understanding the link between nanobacteria and pathologic calcification-related diseases.
Shigella bacteria uses a Type III secretion system to inject proteins into human cells, causing inflammation and symptoms of dysentery. The bacteria's lipopolysaccharide (LPS) shield protects it from being destroyed by the immune system.
A Penn study will compare two heart failure management technologies to reduce emergency room visits and improve patient outcomes. The study aims to assess the impact of health information technologies on clinical and financial outcomes for patients with symptomatic heart failure.
Researchers at UT Southwestern will investigate the consequences of space radiation exposure on human health, with a focus on lung cancer and its prevention. The $9.8 million grant will enable the development of new cell systems and animal models to study high-energy particles in space.
Hopkins researchers identify NKCC1 as key player in maintaining high chloride levels in odor-detecting cells. The same transporter facilitates secretion of digestive juices and communication between the nose and brain. This finding sheds light on how our bodies process smells and could lead to new understanding of neurological functions.