A recent study found that patients taking SSRIs before heart surgery have higher mortality rates four years later. The researchers suggest that depression itself is the primary cause of increased mortality, rather than medication use. The study recommends closer monitoring and treatment for depressed patients undergoing heart surgery.
A massive solar flare on January 20, 2024, produced the largest solar radiation signal in nearly 50 years, tripping radiation monitors worldwide and scrambling spacecraft detectors. The event challenged traditional theories about proton storms at Earth, suggesting that protons may have originated from the sun itself.
The HIPAA privacy rule has made it harder and costlier for researchers to conduct follow-up surveys after hospitalization, resulting in a drastic drop in participation rates from 96% to 34%. The changes have also increased the cost of performing surveys and skewed the data due to patient demographics.
Michael Prather, a renowned atmospheric scientist from UCI, has been awarded the Jefferson Science Fellowship to provide expertise on environmental issues. He will spend a year in Washington, D.C., advising the US Department of State and discussing science with non-specialists.
A new study found that statin use can decrease the risk of colon cancer in people taking cholesterol-lowering medications. Researchers analyzed data from over 1,900 participants and found a 47% reduced risk of colorectal cancer among those taking statins.
Researchers found that patient and organ survival rates in transplants involving organs from 'extreme' donors were similar to success rates with conventional donors. The studies suggest that pancreas donor criteria can be liberalized without adverse outcomes, potentially increasing the number of available organs for transplant.
Astronomers have detected a planet in a solar system 15,000 light years from Earth, one of the most distant ever discovered. The discovery was made possible by a technique called gravitational microlensing, which involves monitoring the brightness of a star as a massive object in space passes in front of it.
Researchers found that COX-2 inhibitors can lead to increased cardiovascular risk through vascular remodeling and blood pressure changes. The study suggests that shutting down prostacyclin, a protective fat produced by COX-2, may accelerate atherosclerosis and hardening of the arteries.
A study of over 200 mothers and their babies found that a mother's ability to understand her child's emotions and state of mind is a strong indicator of the child's development by two years old. This 'mind-minded' trait was linked to higher scores in language and play skills, even among children from poorer backgrounds.
Researchers investigated Vibrio interactions with the bivalve immune system, identifying factors that influence vibrios' fate within the host. Different Vibrio species and strains adopt a common strategy to undermine host cell functions, disregulating signaling pathways.
Researchers aim to understand the impact of sanctification on families transitioning to parenthood, examining spiritual emotions and investment in family life. The four-year project will involve 160 couples in Toledo, Ohio, shedding light on spirituality's role in shaping parenting experiences.
Scientists confirm Voyager 1's crossing of the termination shock at 94 AU, marking a significant milestone on its journey to interstellar space. The spacecraft is expected to reach the heliopause in another 10 years or so, providing valuable insights into the solar system and beyond.
Family dinners are associated with greater consumption of fruits and vegetables, less processed food. However, a study suggests that family dinners do not directly impact a child's weight or prevent obesity.
A recent study at Mayo Clinic found that transplanting kidneys with small stones does not significantly affect the kidney's function. The study followed 44 donor kidneys, of which 86% had stones smaller than 2mm, and reported a 97% graft survival rate after 26 months, comparable to national averages for living kidney donation.
Researchers at Purdue University found that the flexible structure of WIN compounds allows them to shimmy into the proteins forming the virus' outer shell and alter them. This could potentially stop the infection process. The team believes WIN compounds may be effective in stabilizing proteins, preventing the viral trap door from opening.
Researchers found that undergraduate students react quickly to words with positive or negative connotations, indicating automatic memory links. These links can guide future behavior and decision-making in politics.
A renowned psychologist aims to explore how various cultures perceive and measure well-being, with a focus on its interplay with biological markers. The proposed MidLife in Japan (MIDJA) study will survey adults in Tokyo to gather data on socio-demographic, psychosocial, and health information.
A study published in Nature suggests that mitochondrial problems in blood vessel walls contribute to atherosclerosis. Researchers found that mice overproducing uncoupling protein-1 developed high blood pressure and atherosclerosis, despite having normal cholesterol levels.
Researchers identified genes that govern the development of brown fat cells, which burn energy and generate heat. The discovery may lead to new tools to fight obesity by targeting specific genes with drugs or agents.
Researchers at UNC Health Care have discovered a protein called eed that regulates gene modification in embryonic stem cells. This finding has significant implications for understanding human diseases and developing stem cell therapeutics.
A new dictionary has been published to support the teaching of the Native American language Nuuchahnulth, with only two hundred people able to speak it. The language, spoken along the coast of Vancouver Island, has a complex sound structure and is considered one of the most morphologically complex languages.
The team successfully fabricated four niobium single cell cavities from large-grain and single crystal ingots, achieving an accelerating gradient of 45 MV/m, exceeding the ILC specification. This new fabrication process simplifies manufacturing, reduces cost, and improves cavity performance.
Researchers analyzed astrolabes from Lahore and found they contained 39-45 weight percent zinc, while European astrolabes had much lower zinc content. The co-melting technique allowed for more precise control over the alloy composition, enabling finer details and more accurate instruments.
Researchers found that flowers induce immediate and long-term positive effects on emotional reactions, mood, social behaviors, and memory in both men and women. The evolutionary emotional niche model suggests that humans' emotional connection with flowers is a key factor in their survival and diversity.
Children as young as kindergarten begin to question self-interest statements, but only start endorsing biases equally plausible for incorrect statements in sixth grade. Most elementary school age children are harsher judges of others than adults and older children.
A recent Emory University study found a strong correlation between health levels and healthcare use, as well as work productivity. Adults with high levels of physical and mental health reported fewer lost workdays and lower healthcare use compared to those with lower health levels.
The Tri-Institutional Stem Cell Initiative aims to decipher molecular codes responsible for human cellular diversity and design cell-based therapies. This collaboration will bring together researchers from Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, Weill Cornell Medical College, and The Rockefeller University to explore stem cell biology.
EQUETRO demonstrates significant reduction in manic symptoms for patients previously taking valproate or lithium, with average YMRS scores decreasing by 10.8 and 11.6 points, respectively. The medication is an effective treatment option for acute manic and mixed episodes associated with Bipolar I Disorder.
A K-State professor developed a landscape-based model to assess extinction risk for migratory songbirds affected by habitat loss and fragmentation. The study found that the rate of habitat destruction, rather than its extent, may be crucial in determining extinction risk.
The International Committee of Medical Journal Editors (ICMJE) has updated its requirements for clinical trials registries, emphasizing the need for electronic searchability and public accessibility. The new guidelines also require registration of all phase 3 trials, which are designed to affect clinical practice.
A new study assesses the feasibility and effectiveness of personalized immunosuppression using CellCept, a leading immunosuppressant in kidney transplantation. The study found that tailored dosing strategies can minimize toxicity while maximizing efficacy, offering improved patient care.
Researchers discovered that omega-3 fatty acids are not linked to depression as previously thought, but rather increased arachidonic acid levels in the brain may be responsible. Omega-6 fatty acid intake could also play a role in controlling depression.
Researchers from Stanford University explore the secret world of elephant communication, discovering that elephants can sense underground vibrations generated by low-pitched sounds. The team uses seismic signals to communicate with elephants, finding that they can feel and interpret these vibrations through their trunks and feet.
Penn State researchers are using neutron activation analysis to measure gold in tree rings and link them to volcanic eruptions. By analyzing the rings' chemical composition, they can identify patterns and correlations with known volcanic events.
The Bush administration's foreign policy has been widely criticized for its perceived self-interest, leading to widespread distrust and cynicism among the global public. A survey by Pew Research Center found that most people in Pakistan, Turkey, Jordan, and Morocco believe the US ignores their interests.
The study found that individual odors stimulate a small subset of neurons across a large area in the cortex. Different odorants exhibit similar patterns of activation, but with partial overlaps. This suggests a complex logic to the way information is mapped onto the cortex.
A recent study by Johns Hopkins Medicine found that even limited cultural competency training can significantly improve healthcare providers' knowledge and patient satisfaction. However, the research lacks evidence to prove a direct link between training and improved health outcomes for minority patients.
A magnitude 7.2-7.5 earthquake on the Puente Hills fault could result in 3,000-18,000 deaths and up to $250 billion in property damage, according to a study by the USGS and USC. The disaster would be the costliest in U.S. history due to the fault's location under Los Angeles County and adjacent areas.
The ARVO Foundation has received a $500,000 gift from Alcon Laboratories to launch a new clinician-scientist mentoring program. The program aims to foster interactions between basic scientists and clinicians, while also recognizing the importance of clinician-scientists in ophthalmic research.
Researchers developed a simple method to neutralize phenols in manure using horseradish root and hydrogen peroxide, reducing odors by 50%. The mixture effectively deodorized over 50 gallons of hog manure in pilot-scale tests.
Plant pathologists warn that SBS is a complex problem requiring objective inspections for possible causes. Mold growth and dust are two of the main contributors to SBS, necessitating the expertise of more plant pathologists and mycologists.
The CRASH trial found that corticosteroids increased the risk of death at two weeks compared to a placebo. The study also showed higher risks of death or severe disability in the corticosteroid group than in the placebo group. Corticosteroids are widely used to treat head injuries, but this practice may be harmful.
Scientists have uncovered a submarine volcano growing in the summit crater of another larger underwater volcano, Vailulu'u. A unique hydrothermal community of hundreds of slithering eels was found surrounding the eruption site.
Researchers found that GM-CSF treatment significantly improved Crohn's disease symptoms in patients, suggesting a defect in innate immune system is the underlying cause. The study supports a new understanding of Crohn's and offers hope for a new treatment option.
A six-month exercise program improved body fat, muscle strength, and fitness levels in older men and women. Despite weight loss, bone mineral density remained stable or even increased slightly among those who achieved greater gains in fitness.
A recent study found that nearly 40% of research participants expressed concerns about genetic discrimination affecting their insurance coverage. Concerns were higher among certain age groups, ethnicities, and income levels, with some participants expressing fear of being discriminated against due to a genetic predisposition.
A new study by Arizona State University researchers found that prejudices exist towards different groups of people, with distinct flavors characterized by fear, disgust, anger, and more. The study suggests that interventions to reduce inappropriate prejudices against different groups may need to be tailored accordingly.
Researchers analyzed AERS reports for rosuvastatin and compared them to other statins, finding a higher rate of muscle and kidney complications. The absolute risk of AERS appears low, with most side effects disappearing upon withdrawal of medication.
North Pacific right whales have been observed in the Southeastern Bering Sea slope and shelf, eastern Aleutian Islands, and Gulf of Alaska. The study refutes previous claims of a habitat shift and suggests these areas are crucial to their distribution.
Scientists developed a new method to image the earth's rupture during the Dec. 26 Indian Ocean earthquake, providing a fresh perspective on the massive event. The technique uses first-arriving seismic waves to create detailed images in under 30 minutes, which could be used for public-warning and tsunami-alert systems.
Raw garlic activates TRPV1 and TRPA1 ion channel proteins in pain-sensing neurons, detecting temperature and pain. The loss of allicin when garlic is cooked accounts for the change in pungency.
Researchers identify TIR1 as the protein that works with auxin to influence plant cell growth and division. This discovery sheds light on the long-standing mystery of auxin's role in plant development, with potential implications for understanding human biology.
Scientists Tiruppattur V. Ramakrishnan and Sergio Henrique Ferreira receive the first Trieste Science Prizes for their groundbreaking research in physics and biological sciences. Their work has led to significant breakthroughs in understanding quantum transport, nanoscopic systems, and the treatment of hypertension and chronic pain.
A recent study published in Archives of Neurology suggests that variations in p-tau 231 levels can predict the structural progression of Alzheimer's disease. The biomarker has been shown to discriminate between AD patients and those with other neurodegenerative disorders, with high accuracy in detecting early-stage disease.
Researchers at Yale University found that playing a patient's favorite music during surgery reduces the need for sedatives. In contrast, using white noise or no headphones did not decrease sedative requirements. The study involved 36 patients at Yale-New Haven Hospital and 54 patients at the American University of Beirut Medical Center.
Researchers monitoring two PennDOT-installed data loggers measure high salt levels in runoff wetland, reaching half the salinity of seawater. The effects on species and soil quality are still unknown but may include decreased midge populations and increased algae growth.
Researchers found that young women in Cameroon view their life as random, while those in rural Thailand consider the sex industry an option. In Hong Kong, a successful women's movement secured inheritance rights for indigenous women through public framing of their stories as human rights violations.
Researchers at UCSB have developed a method to couple synthetic molecules onto gold nanoparticles, mimicking the natural biological catalyst of the marine sponge. This discovery represents a low-temperature, biotechnological route to producing valuable nanomaterials.
A randomized, double-blind placebo-controlled crossover trial found that ondansetron did not have a fatigue-reduction benefit greater than the considerable placebo effect. The study suggests that other drugs targeting the central nervous system may prove effective in combating fatigue associated with primary biliary cirrhosis.
A recent study found that bladder capacity remains relatively stable throughout adulthood, contradicting the common assumption that it shrinks with age. Overactive bladder, also known as detrusor overactivity, is a common condition affecting millions of Americans, and treatment is available.