Researchers analyzed nine trials involving 693 patients and found that treatment with calcium-channel blockers or alpha blockers increased the chances of passing urinary stones by 65%, making these medications an effective alternative to surgery.
A large collaborative effort has made publicly available genetic data for Parkinson's research, providing new opportunities for future studies. The data includes genotypes from hundred of patients and healthy controls, which may help identify common genetic variability that results in minor and moderate risk for disease.
Government laboratories can quickly analyze radioactive samples but with variable accuracy and quality control procedures. The NIST tests found that measurement capability is generally accurate within 30% of the expected value.
A McGill University study found no difference in time for men and women to reach peak arousal, contrary to previous assumptions. The use of thermal imaging technology allows for minimally invasive measurement of sexual arousal rates.
Women under 45 who have both ovaries removed are at higher risk of death from hormone-related cancers and neurological diseases. The risk increases with age, suggesting that oestrogen may be protective at younger ages but less important after menopause.
A University of Rochester study found that African Americans and Latinos are more likely to over-report their last preventive screening test, potentially harming their health. The research highlights the need for accurate tracking of ethnic disparities in healthcare.
A University of Colorado study found that winds in the polar upper stratospheric vortex led to record amounts of ozone-destroying nitrogen oxide gases in March 2006. This could have unanticipated climate consequences due to the destruction of ozone, which heats up the stratosphere.
A study published in The Lancet found that weight gain during the interpregnancy period is strongly associated with major maternal and perinatal complications. Women who gained 3 or more BMI units were at increased risk of stillbirth, large-for-gestational-age births, and caesarean delivery.
Researchers at the University of Wisconsin-Madison have discovered a new compound that inhibits angiogenesis, a process essential for tumor growth. The compound, called NK-B, works by preventing the production of vascular endothelial growth factor and reducing receptor molecules that respond to VEGF.
The National Science Foundation has renewed and increased funding for the National Center for Ecological Analysis and Synthesis (NCEAS) at UC Santa Barbara. The center will receive $18.4-million over five years, with an additional $2.6-million to advance research on managing complex ecological information.
Rural India sees a shift from infectious to chronic diseases as the leading cause of death. Cardiovascular disease and injuries now account for over 50% of deaths in rural areas.
Researchers discovered that parasitic plants like Cuscuta pentagona sense and respond to volatile chemicals emitted by potential host plants. They found that dodder seedlings grew towards tomato plants in a specific direction, indicating a directed growth response.
A study by University of Virginia professor Angeline Lillard found that Montessori students excel in reading, math, executive function, and social skills. They showed greater creativity, emotional positivity, and community involvement compared to traditional school peers.
A new University of Florida study finds that live oaks are dying off as they are crowded and overshadowed by the encroachment of taller trees, threatening their survival. The study's co-authors mapped crown densities in Alachua County, Florida, revealing that sweet gum, black cherry, and magnolia are among the culprits.
A recent study found that nearly one in five stroke survivors suffer from depression, with only 22% of those taking antidepressants being effective. Researchers hope to increase identification and treatment by educating physicians, patients, and families about the risk of depression after stroke.
Researchers have developed a technique to isolate bacteria that interact with ice, leading to the discovery of species with properties such as Ice Recrystallisation Inhibition (IRI) and temperature-modifying abilities. These findings hold potential for applications in industries like snow-making and waste-water purification.
A study conducted at the University of Messina found that high-resolution CT can accurately diagnose medial tibial stress syndrome, also known as shin splints, in distance runners. The study evaluated 41 subjects and found CT abnormalities in all painful tibiae of patients with shin splints.
A comprehensive study of 2,128 individuals found that openness to surgery and higher education level significantly influenced the likelihood of undergoing joint replacement surgery. Education was a key factor in increasing willingness to consider TJA, regardless of socioeconomic status or disability.
Astronomers used VISIR instrument to map infrared disc around young, massive star HD 97048, finding it at least 12 times larger than Neptune's orbit. The disc is flared and contains a large amount of gas, potentially hosting planetary embryos.
The Heart Rhythm Society has published final recommendations for pacemaker and ICD performance, emphasizing greater transparency and patient safety. The guidelines include specific guidance for physicians, manufacturers, FDA officials, and Congress to prevent adverse events due to device malfunctions.
A three-step prompting procedure, implemented consistently, significantly improves preschool child compliance. Instructors using the method report improved results when following a consistent approach, with children responding to instructions more effectively.
Scientists at Lehigh University are studying single-walled CNTs wrapped with single-stranded DNA to improve sorting and placement. The DNA-CNT hybrid has proven effective in dispersion and holds promise for aiding in the critical task of placing tubes on substrates.
A study by Hans-Werner Sinn suggests that Germany's export boom is causing structural changes away from labor-intensive sectors towards capital-intensive export sectors, leading to high value-added exports but declining jobs. The country needs fundamental reforms to make its labor market more flexible.
A new gene expression-based chemical genomic approach has identified potent inhibitors of androgen receptor signaling, including celastrol and gedunin, which may overcome prostate cancer treatment resistance. Additionally, rapamycin has been found to potentially reverse glucocorticoid resistance in childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia.
Scientists recorded digitally-tagged narwhal vocalizations, revealing individually-distinctive pulsed/tonal signals and whistles. The findings suggest that these sounds may facilitate individual recognition or reunion with more distant group members.
Researchers found radiofrequency ablation effective in achieving local control in selected patients with advanced ovarian cancer. The procedure resulted in complete necrosis in five of six patients, with no evidence of recurrence after treatment.
An international team, led by UCLA's Roel Ophoff, is conducting a four-year study on schizophrenia that will analyze the human genome of approximately 850 Dutch patients and 750 control subjects to pinpoint related genes. This approach aims to separate false clues from true genetic variants associated with the disorder.
A Yale University study reveals leptin's powerful effect on the brain's reward center, impacting appetite regulation. The hormone suppresses dopamine neurons in the ventral tegmental area, linked to behaviors like obesity, drug addiction, and impulsivity.
Researchers from Oxford University have identified a 'vicious triangle' in the way central government assesses performance and need, leading to a Catch-22 situation for public service providers. This contradictory regime governs local authorities, causing confusion and inconsistent funding outcomes.
A study published in BMC Health Services Research reveals ethnic disparities in preventive screening procedures are larger when estimated using Medicare claims, with the exception of PSA testing. Despite adjusting for various factors, minorities tend to report higher rates of receiving preventive procedures without a submitted claim.
Over 3 million women in poor countries have unrepaired vesicovaginal fistulas, with 130,000 new cases developing annually in African nations. Specialist fistula repair centers are urgently needed to address this devastating complication of pregnancy.
Scientists have successfully mapped the chemical composition of lipid membranes at the nanoscale, shedding light on their dynamic behavior and structural organization. This breakthrough uses Secondary Ion Mass Spectrometry (SIMS) to analyze membrane components, offering new insights into cell function and vulnerability to viruses.
Researchers have developed a way to image cell membranes with record resolution, shedding light on their chemical composition and organization. This breakthrough allows for high-sensitivity analysis of biological samples on a nanoscale, providing new insights into cellular function and behavior.
Researchers at USC Viterbi School of Engineering have developed a method to use entangled photons as part of the message stream, allowing for the use of highly efficient turbo codes. This breakthrough enables quantum computing systems to operate close to theoretical limits of efficiency.
Researchers at UC Davis and Virginia Tech successfully created an egg-shaped fullerene, or 'buckyegg', which opens up new possibilities for structures of fullerenes. The unexpected discovery was made by collaborating scientists who used special conditions to create a mixture of fullerenes with triterbium nitride inside.
A new Loma Linda University study confirms that eating pecans daily can inhibit unwanted oxidation of blood lipids, reducing the risk of heart disease. The research found that pecans contain gamma tocopherol, a form of vitamin E, which protects fats from oxidation.
The IU and Purdue Analytical Proteomics Team has been awarded a grant to develop standardized proteomics methodologies to discover proteins relevant to cancer. The team will work with cancer researchers and clinicians at the IU School of Medicine, as well as experts in statistical and computer analysis.
Researchers have unveiled a new systematic approach to drug discovery that matches diseases with potential treatments using gene signatures. The 'Human Connectivity Map' allows scientists to compare disease signatures with those of treated cells, identifying effective treatments for cancer, obesity and Alzheimer's disease.
The study found that male sex influences RA mechanisms, with higher production of anti-CCP antibodies in families with affected male members. Female patients also exhibit differences in disease expression and response to treatment.
A new study found that an increase in body mass index (BMI) between first and second pregnancies is associated with adverse outcomes, including maternal complications and perinatal complications. Women who gained a modest amount of weight between pregnancies experienced increased risks of gestational diabetes and stillbirth.
The Temporal Dynamics of Learning Center aims to improve teaching techniques and alter human lives through a better understanding of how humans learn. The center, funded by the National Science Foundation, will study the role of timing in learning and develop interdisciplinary research networks.
A comprehensive mouse study provides new clues about the virulence of the 1918 influenza virus. The research found that a hyperactive immune response triggered by the virus may contribute to its exceptional lethality. Understanding this phenomenon is crucial for developing therapies against future flu pandemics.
Researchers developed a gene transfer method using the mutant form of apolipoprotein A-I (Apo A-I Milano) to treat vascular inflammation and plaque buildup. The study found that Apo A-I Milano gene transfer resulted in a 65% reduction in plaque buildup, compared to a 25% decrease with the normal HDL gene.
A new genetic 'roadmap' tool connects human diseases with potential drugs, revealing potential applications in cancer and other diseases. The Connectivity Map uses genomic signatures to predict molecular actions of novel therapeutic compounds and suggest ways existing drugs can be newly applied.
Alberto Bressan has been selected to receive the Antonio Feltrinelli Prize for his groundbreaking research on hyperbolic conservation laws. The prize is awarded annually in the area of physical and mathematical sciences, recognizing achievements that contribute to the development of new mathematics.
The Antarctic ozone hole reaches its annual peak, providing insights into the impact of the Montreal Protocol ban on CFCs. NASA's satellite data suggests that while the hole has not shown substantial recovery signs, long-term monitoring indicates a possible decrease in size by 2025.
The Genetics and Public Policy Center will conduct a public discussion about future potential large U.S. population-based studies examining the roles of genes and environment in human health. The study aims to unravel complex genetic and environmental factors contributing to common diseases such as cancer and heart disease.
A new study by Indiana University researchers found that state laws protecting abortion clinics have had no impact on violent crimes against them. Surprisingly, data from 361 clinics showed 7% experiencing major or minor violence, with 44% experiencing harassment.
A Stanford study finds that the cancer drug Gleevec, used to combat leukemia and gastrointestinal cancers, may also be effective in treating rheumatoid arthritis. The researchers tested Gleevec on mice with a condition similar to human rheumatoid arthritis and found it almost completely prevented disease development.
Researchers created a 'Poverty Atlas' using geographic information system applications to visualize poverty-related indicators. The maps provide a visual context for understanding the connection between poverty and geography, including factors like climate, soil fertility, and access to transportation networks.
Margaret Foti, AACR CEO, receives the Association of American Cancer Institutes Distinguished Service Award for her leadership and advocacy in advancing cancer research. The AACR has grown to over 24,000 members under her tenure, and she has launched several high-quality journals in the field.
The University of Victoria-led NEPTUNE Canada observatory will receive a significant boost in funding, allowing for expansion of its scope and scientific impact. The additional $20 million will enable more comprehensive studies on ocean-climate interactions, fisheries, gas hydrate deposits, and seafloor ecology.
Scientists discovered high concentrations of silver in Jerusalem pottery, suggesting significant wealth in the city during the Second Temple period. The findings, published in Archaeometry, used X-ray fluorescence and instrumental neutron activation analysis to analyze 1,200 pottery vessels from 38 sites in Roman Judea.
A UK case control study found that living near heavy industry sites for over 25 years increases the risk of developing lung cancer. Women living in areas with high rates of poverty and industrial activity were more likely to develop the disease.
A team led by Berkeley Lab's Susan J. Fisher and Joe W. Gray aims to identify cancer-specific proteins and patterns in blood samples for early detection. By combining genome-wide studies with mass-spectrometry-based protein analysis, the team hopes to develop a more accurate test for all cancers.
The National Cancer Institute has established a collaborative network of five Clinical Proteomic Technology Assessment for Cancer teams to evaluate and compare different proteomic platforms. The network aims to improve diagnostics, therapies, and prevention by standardizing technologies and methodologies.
A large study found that patients with IBS are 60% more likely to suffer from depression, migraine, or chronic pain compared to those without IBS. Individuals with IBS were also 40% more likely to experience depression and 60% more likely to suffer from migraine.
The Lancet warns that Millennium Development Goal 5 will only be met with intensified commitment and effective strategies to reduce maternal deaths. The authors call for governments and donors to invest in training, deployment, and retention of skilled attendants, particularly midwives, to make a significant difference.
Using mesh to close gastric bypass incisions prevents hernias in obese patients. Researchers found no impact on hospital stay or procedure cost.
Researchers gathered at the ARVO/Pfizer Ophthalmics Research Institute conference to discuss the current understanding of aqueous outflow pathways. The study aims to identify key unanswered research questions and explore new ideas for controlling high eye pressure in glaucoma patients.