A new study analyzed surveys from 2,515 asthmatic patients to identify reliable quality indicators for physician profiling. The researchers found that having a sufficient number of patients and using clear-cut indicators like asthma self-management knowledge and use of inhaled steroids can help determine the best doctor for patients.
Researchers at UCLA and VA discovered a link between lipin levels and body weight, finding that excess lipin can lead to accelerated weight gain in mice. Variations in lipin levels may play a role in why some people are more prone to weight gain than others.
A new study published in the Royal Society journal found that managing GM herbicide tolerant sugar beet crops can increase yields while reducing herbicide use. The research also shows that single glyphosate applications can enhance weed seed production, benefiting wildlife.
Scientists at UCSF's Ernest Gallo Clinic and Research Center have shown that Ibogaine decreases alcohol consumption in mice and rats by increasing GDNF levels. In separate studies, they demonstrated that GDNF alone also reduces alcohol consumption.
A study found that breast cancer patients have lower DNA repair capacity compared to control subjects, increasing their risk of breast cancer. Deficient DNA repair capacity was associated with a threefold higher risk in women with poor DNA repair capacity.
A study found that in-hospital CPR was often performed suboptimally, with many patients experiencing chest compression rates below 90 per minute and ventilation rates above 20/min. The researchers suggest that improving monitoring and feedback systems could help improve CPR quality.
The Global HIV/AIDS Vaccine Enterprise has launched a scientific strategic plan to address major roadblocks in HIV vaccine development and proposes an innovative collaborative model for researchers worldwide. The plan aims to harness new opportunities, including an expanded pipeline of HIV vaccine candidates and improved animal models.
The LCLS X-ray free electron laser will enable breakthrough science and imaging at the atomic scale, with initial funding of $54 million. Construction is set to begin in 2006, with a new center for ultrafast science expected to be operational by 2009.
Astronomers have detected Regulus' rotationally induced distortions using the CHARA array, revealing its temperature difference between polar and equatorial regions. The star's centrifugal force causes it to expand, resulting in gravity darkening, where it becomes brighter at its poles than at its equator.
A study found that African Americans are half as likely to receive surgery for esophageal cancer, experiencing poorer survival rates and undertreatment. The disparity is attributed to factors such as age, socioeconomic status, and pre-existing health conditions, highlighting the need for equal access to quality cancer care.
A quality improvement intervention for adolescents improved depressive symptoms, mental health-related quality of life, and satisfaction with mental health care. The program also increased access to evidence-based treatments like psychotherapy and counseling.
The Global Technology Confidence Index reached a new high in Q4 2004, driven by strong increases in Latin America and North America. Meanwhile, executives prioritize innovation management and technology alignment for business growth.
Scientists use NASA Airborne Visible and Infrared Imaging Spectrometer to analyze vegetation and soil changes in response to rain variation over large areas. The study found a long-term decrease in litter cover, bare soil areas, and shifts in plant responses to precipitation events.
A new coronavirus has been found in children with symptoms of Kawasaki disease, a condition that also affects the lungs. The virus was detected in 73% of Kawasaki patients but only 5% of healthy children.
A UCI professor has developed a method to measure the relationship between environment and mental well-being, finding that natural features like water and flowers are most beneficial for mental health. The study suggests that designing landscapes with these elements can enhance overall quality of life.
A new study found that adding more types to the current HPV DNA test would detect relatively few additional cases of cervical cancer but lead to thousands of unnecessary exams for women without cancer. Meanwhile, esophageal adenocarcinoma has increased by sixfold over the last 25 years, with no clear explanation for the rise.
Orphan nuclear receptors are structurally related to well-known hormone receptors but lack known ligands. Dr. Forman's work identifies novel signaling pathways and regulatory molecules that contribute to critical diseases, including fat cell formation, insulin sensitivity, and cholesterol homeostasis.
A recent study published in JAMA found that higher folate intake is associated with a decreased risk of hypertension in women. Younger and older women who consumed at least 1,000 micrograms of total folate daily had a lower risk of developing hypertension.
The addition of locoregional radiation therapy significantly improved breast cancer survival and reduced mortality in high-risk patients. A 20-year follow-up study found that the regimen resulted in a 32% reduction in breast cancer mortality and a 27% reduction in overall mortality compared to chemotherapy alone.
A 2001-2002 survey found that 25% of individuals with alcohol dependence are now dependent, 27.3% are in partial remission, and 11.8% are asymptomatic risk drinkers. The likelihood of abstinent recovery increased with age and certain factors such as marriage, family history of alcoholism, and fewer symptoms of dependence.
A collaborative care program for adolescent depression in primary care clinics significantly reduces symptoms, improves quality of life, and increases access to effective treatments. The study suggests that clinicians can effectively treat youth depression with a team-based approach.
Research found that estrogen therapy significantly increases the risk of gallbladder disease and surgery in postmenopausal women, with CEE showing a 67% increased risk. The study also revealed higher risks for cholecystitis and cholelithiasis among estrogen users.
A study found that chest compressions were given only 48% of the time without spontaneous circulation, with an average compression rate of 64/min. The researchers emphasize the importance of focusing on delivery of correct chest compressions during CPR to improve patient survival.
A gene that causes severe fat deficiency is also found to promote obesity in mice, according to new research. The protein affects body weight by altering fat storage and metabolism, with excess levels leading to increased body weight and changes in energy expenditure.
A single brain region, the hypothalamic arcuate nucleus (ARH), is sufficient for normal control of blood sugar and activity level by the fat hormone leptin. Restoration of leptin signaling in mice improves glucose homeostasis and locomotor activity.
A diverse network of marine protected areas may be essential for restoring depleted groundfish stocks. Older fish produce more eggs with increased survival chances for larvae, which can grow faster and survive starvation longer.
Researchers found that chest compressions during CPR are often too slow, shallow, and interrupted, while ventilation rates are usually too high. The study used an investigational monitor/defibrillator to measure CPR quality and compared the results to American Heart Association guidelines.
The new guidelines provide a simple approach to treating non-ct-segment elevation acute coronary syndrome, focusing on risk-factor reduction and lifestyle changes. By following the ABCDE approach, patients can receive comprehensive management with safer and more effective treatment options.
The American Geosciences Institute (AGI) has partnered with the USGS to provide a Global GIS DVD-ROM, which offers datasets of historical seismicity, topography, and other geospatial information. This database is being distributed to disaster teams to aid in tsunami relief efforts.
A two-year study found that older beagles performed better on cognitive tests when fed a balanced diet with fruits and vegetables, exercised regularly, and provided stimulating environments. The combination of these interventions showed the most significant improvements in brain function.
A study found that obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) treatment significantly reduces behavioral and emotional problems in children, with only 12% scoring abnormal or borderline after treatment. Quality of life measures also show large improvements.
A team of researchers at the University of Toronto created modern proverbs reflecting current public health principles. Their proverbs advise on smoking, balanced diet, and physical activity.
Researchers found that combining behavioral enrichment and antioxidant supplementation significantly improved learning abilities in senior dogs. The study suggests similar benefits may be attained in humans due to biological and behavioral parallels between species.
A study published in the American Thoracic Society Journal found that total maternal vitamin C intake was positively associated with wheeze in certain infants who did not have a cold during their second year of life. Additionally, U.S.-born Mexican Americans had a higher prevalence of asthma compared to Mexican-born individuals.
A new genetic mutation on the LRRK2 gene is responsible for 5% of inherited Parkinson's disease cases, with patients having longer disease duration but less severe symptoms. The discovery has a broad implication for genetic screening for the disease, highlighting the need to include studies of the LRRK2 gene in future testing.
A recent study found that the LRRK2 mutation is the most common genetic cause of Parkinson's disease, affecting approximately 5% of patients. This mutation is linked to slower disease progression, while symptoms are less severe compared to other mutations in the gene.
A single gene mutation in the LRRK2 gene has been identified as a cause of around one in 25 cases of Parkinson's disease worldwide. The mutation is associated with both inherited and sporadic forms of the disease, suggesting new diagnostic and treatment options on the horizon.
A study of 119 mothers in three age groups found that those who received consistent care during childhood displayed more affection towards their infants. In contrast, mothers raised by frequently changing caregivers exhibited less affection and more instrumental behavior.
Dr. Fraser Mitchell's study analyzes tree pollen to reconstruct primeval forests, concluding that grazing animals did not exert a significant impact on forest structure. This challenges current European forest conservation policy, which promotes closed canopy deciduous forests, and suggests that primeval forests may have been more open.
Researchers found that vaccination against tumor-specific proteins can reinvigorate existing T cells, allowing them to attack tumors. This breakthrough suggests a new approach to treating skin cancer by targeting the immune system's natural defense mechanisms.
Researchers found that inhibiting tankyrase 1 enhances telomere shortening and accelerates cancer cell death when combined with telomerase inhibitors. This strategy may reduce drug treatment time and minimize acquired resistance.
Researchers observed a Transient Ionospheric Glow Emission in Red (TIGER) event in the Indian Ocean, defying known luminous events. The event's unusual characteristics suggest an extraterrestrial origin, with no clear explanation for its cause.
The UN Millennium Project reports that many poor regions, especially sub-Saharan Africa, are far off-track to achieve the MDGs. However, the goals are still achievable if the world takes bold steps in 2005 to improve hundreds of millions of lives and save millions annually.
Researchers found that a cancer vaccine can stimulate the production of CTLs against specific antigens and also reactivate spontaneously produced CTL populations against multiple cancer antigens in about 10% of patients with metastatic melanoma. This non-specific process could potentially eliminate bulk of tumor cells.
Researchers discover how genetic and environmental factors influence racial health disparities, highlighting the importance of personalized treatment approaches. Studies show that genetic contributions play a larger role in blood pressure differences among African Americans than previously thought.
Research reveals that cancer cells can become resistant to treatment by acquiring P-glycoprotein from neighboring cells, rendering chemotherapy ineffective. This phenomenon has significant implications for tumor behavior and genomic analysis, highlighting the potential benefits of studying protein transfer between cells in tumors.
Scientists create a novel polymer, polylimonene carbonate, using limonene oxide and CO2, offering an alternative to petroleum-based plastics. The biodegradable material has characteristics similar to polystyrene, a commonly used plastic.
A study found that a mutation in the LRRK2 gene appears in at least one of every 60 people with Parkinson's disease. The mutation may account for 1½ to 2 percent of cases, particularly those without a family history, and could lead to earlier detection of the disease.
Current FOBT screening recommendations are being reexamined due to low test accuracy and non-compliance. A study of 3,121 people found that single office-based FOBT tests missed advanced precancerous lesions 95% of the time.
Researchers can submit study information to a new patient website, www.PDtrials.org, designed to improve access to Parkinson's clinical trial information. The site currently lists over 30 studies recruiting patients in the US and aims to educate patient communities on the value of clinical research.
Researchers found that strong stellar winds around young red dwarfs may be responsible for removing dust and debris disks. The discovery provides a potential explanation for the rare occurrence of debris disks among red dwarfs, but further observations are needed to confirm this hypothesis.
The Forward Resuscitative Surgery System (FRSS) improved treatment times for critically injured Marines, with median arrival times of one hour. The system also reduced casualty rates compared to previous conflicts, thanks to its rapid access to surgical care.
The study identified specific characteristics of tissues removed during surgery as risk factors for endometrial cancer recurrence. Approximately one-third of patients with endometrial cancer in the US may benefit from enrollment in clinical trials addressing new treatment approaches.
Researchers found that levels of circulating endothelial cells and progenitor cells correlate with tumor blood vessel growth and response to antiangiogenic therapy. Measuring these cells could be a reliable surrogate for therapeutic inhibition of angiogenesis.
A meta-analysis of two trials suggests that COX-2 inhibitor Bextra elevates the combined incidence of heart attack and stroke three-fold in patients undergoing coronary artery bypass graft surgery. The researchers also found that another COX-2 inhibitor caused changes in atherosclerotic plaques, potentially increasing the risk of rupture.
Researchers highlight the need for accurate measurements of race in health and social science research to address racial health disparities. They propose using direct measurement of underlying social and environmental exposures instead of relying on self-identified racial groups.
Researchers found that smoking promotes rapid production of COX-2 in oral mucosal cells, with tobacco smoke inducing EGFR activation. This activation leads to increased COX-2 protein production, highlighting a potential mechanism for tobacco-related cancers.
A recent study by Emory University Health Sciences Center found that patients with depression are less likely to clear the hepatitis C virus from their blood after six months of treatment. Only 34% of those experiencing a significant increase in depression were able to clear the virus, compared to 59-69% of those with milder increases
Archaeologists have discovered over 250 new examples of England's finest array of prehistoric rock art carvings, which can now be admired on a comprehensive website. The site features 6,000 images, interactive games and audio clips, and is said to be the most extensive database of its kind in the world.
Researchers found that Whites perceive significantly more disorder than Blacks, Latinos, and Asians, even when living in the same neighborhood. The study suggests implicit bias in perceptions of disorder contributes to continued racial segregation in the US.