Research reveals two proteins in blood foretell development of preeclampsia, a life-threatening complication of pregnancy. High levels of soluble endoglin and sFlt1 indicate severe forms of preeclampsia and offer hope for early detection and cure.
A recent study by Robert J. Gatchel confirmed that patients scoring high on the Pain Medication Questionnaire (PMQ) test demonstrate higher levels of substance abuse, psychopathology, and physical/life functioning problems. The study found that patients in the high-PMQ group are 3.2 times more likely to request early medication refills.
A critical review found that repeated administration of antiepileptic drug therapy leads to diminishing results in preventing seizures. Acquired tolerance is responsible for this effect, with some patients developing cross-tolerance to similar medication, posing a significant concern for medically intractable epilepsy
As permafrost melts in North Siberia, carbon sequestered for 40,000 years is released as methane, exacerbating global warming. Methane emissions from thaw lakes have increased estimates by 10-63%, highlighting the critical role of Northern wetlands in atmospheric methane release.
Researchers found that a gene for an anti-insect enzyme is up to 250 times more active in people with severe sinus inflammation. The enzyme's presence was linked to chronic sinusitis, which affects an estimated 32 million Americans.
Researchers have identified an enzyme called puromycin-sensitive aminopeptidase (PSA) that snips apart abnormal protein tangles in the brain, potentially providing a protective mechanism against neurodegeneration. Higher levels of PSA gene expression were found in cerebellum regions resistant to neurodegeneration.
A recent study finds that media coverage is becoming more gender-balanced, with women candidates receiving more attention and paragraphs published about them. The study suggests that this shift may be advantageous to female politicians, leading to an environment more favorable to their advancement.
The partnership aims to support the training of young investigators in pediatric gastroenterology, hepatology, and nutrition. Hepatology will now be made available without charge to NASPGHAN fellows.
The study reveals that 1- and 3-year-old children, as well as great apes, prefer a place-based strategy to remember hidden items, while humans reassess this preference with age. This suggests that some evolved cognitive strategies are masked early on in human development.
Researchers analyzed branching morphogenesis in lung, kidney and mammary glands, shedding light on organ development and implications for human health. The study's findings have significant implications for genetic manipulation and virtual reconstruction of organogenesis.
The American Political Science Association (APSA) announced its 2006 award recipients, recognizing outstanding scholarly achievements in various fields. The awards included book and dissertation prizes, as well as career honors for notable public service and journalistic contributions.
New research suggests that international fishing trade can benefit developing African countries by generating foreign exchange revenue and improving local food security. The trade in high-value fish species, such as tuna and squid, helps underpin domestic fisheries and supports the livelihoods of thousands of people.
A new H5N1 influenza vaccine has produced a safe and effective immune response in healthy people at low doses, with the highest dose showing the best response. The vaccine was well-tolerated and did not have significantly more side effects compared to a placebo.
A new study found that state health department websites are often written at a level too difficult for the average American, with only 20% of sites at an eighth-grade reading level in 2005. Many websites also lack accessibility features for people with disabilities and non-English speakers, making it hard for them to access essential i...
Sven-Eric Jordt and Michelle L. Bell received the Outstanding New Environmental Scientist (ONES) Award for their research on environmental health, focusing on asthma, allergy, and dermatitis. Their studies will investigate the relationship between environmental exposures and human disease.
A study published in the American Journal of Epidemiology found no increased risk of pregnancy loss related to drinking water disinfection by-products. The research, led by David A. Savitz, Ph.D., used data from 2,409 women and 258 pregnancy losses, concluding that tap water DBPs do not pose a measurable risk to fetal health.
The CSIRO has signed a three-way coal research and development Joint Statement with Japan Coal Energy Centre (JCOAL) and Australian Coal Research Ltd (ACARP). The agreement aims to improve coal production technology, mine safety and coal utilization. This collaboration will enhance the capabilities of both countries in these areas.
A study published by Infectious Diseases Society of America found that antibiotic-resistant bacteria are causing an increase in muscle infections, particularly among children. The researchers discovered a specific strain of Staphylococcus aureus associated with more severe disease, and emphasized the need for physicians to consider ini...
Researchers at the University of Cincinnati are studying whether environmental toxicants can worsen lung disease by activating a receptor that causes the immune system to attack stressed lung tissue. Chronic exposure to toxins like tobacco smoke and air pollutants may exacerbate damage, leading to additional health problems.
A recent study found that 30% of nurses reported both verbal and physical abuse in the last four working weeks. The most common forms of physical abuse were strikes from hands or fists, while verbal abuse was mostly rudeness and shouting. The research highlights a disturbing trend of workplace aggression in modern healthcare settings.
Mark Brandon's award-winning research explores the dynamics of erosion in tectonically active mountain ranges. His work has shed light on the interplay between accretion, erosion, and wedge growth in shaping the Earth's surface.
Rapid crystallization of magma near the surface causes it to heat up, potentially triggering volcanic eruptions. The study's findings have important implications for models of magma ascent beneath volcanoes.
Researchers at Harvard University have developed a new photonic device that uses an optical antenna to concentrate light and improve spatial resolution, leading to increased storage density in optical data storage platforms. The device could also be used in biology and engineering applications such as microscopy and spectroscopy.
Nearly 80% of US organizations engage in employee surveillance, sparking concerns over civil liberties. The USA PATRIOT Act's implementation has led to widespread monitoring, with many exceptions allowing unchecked workplace surveillance.
Researchers discovered that defects in a crucial brain protein can lead to memory loss, similar to Alzheimer's disease. Mice genetically engineered to have reduced levels of this protein displayed impaired social memory and recognition, but treatment with cholinesterase inhibitors improved their performance.
Scientists from Boston University created a mouse model with reduced inflammation, which may lead to new treatments for conditions like arthritis and Crohn's disease. The study found that the LITAF transcription factor controls inflammation through a different pathway than the NF-kB regulator.
A new academic discipline, neuroarthistory, uses scanning techniques to answer questions about artistic phenomena and the origin of art. The research explains why certain styles emerged in different regions and periods, shedding light on the creative processes of artists such as Leonardo.
A new approach to radiotherapy and chemotherapy has significantly improved the outcome for children with high-risk medulloblastoma. The study found that this adaptive treatment can cure over 70% of children with this disease.
The National Institute of General Medical Sciences (NIGMS) will award $13 million to create four centers to develop new treatments for various types of wounds, including burns, diabetic ulcers, and bedsores. This initiative aims to deepen understanding of wound healing and apply knowledge to enhance treatment.
Management Science has introduced a monthly feature called Management Insights, which provides a digest of important research in business and management. The September issue features studies on airline safety, entrepreneurial risk, and market valuation, offering practical insights for practicing managers.
A review of medical literature found that physicians' self-assessments are less accurate than external observations of their competence. The authors recommend shifting the focus from unguided physician self-assessment to processes that provide iterative feedback and support learning.
Researchers analyzed Paulinella's plastid genome, finding it closely related to cyanobacteria and retaining ancient genetic features. The study offers insights into the establishment of plastids and the transition from single-celled hosts to complex organisms.
A 55-gene expression profile identifies children at high risk of progressive metastatic neuroblastoma. Lay health advisors improve mammography use among low-income women. Cyclin D1 inhibits STAT3, slowing breast cancer tumor growth. Researchers identify CD95/CD95L as a molecular system involved in radiation-induced pneumonitis.
A Queen's University study suggests administering low doses of carbon monoxide to pregnant women may help prevent the potentially damaging effects of pre-eclampsia, a condition affecting five to seven per cent of pregnancies. The research found that carbon monoxide may relax blood vessels and prevent cell death in the placenta.
Researchers at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory have developed a novel laser-based MRI technique that offers enhanced sensitivity and time resolution. The approach uses atomic magnetometry and separates signal encoding and detection steps, enabling optimized sensitivity and reducing costs.
A study found that Pycnogenol heals diabetic leg ulcers by improving blood circulation and reducing tissue necrotization. Patients treated with oral and local Pycnogenol experienced a significant decrease in ulcer size and had higher oxygen presence in the skin.
Children who were overweight as toddlers are 5 times more likely to be overweight at age 12. BMI measurements collected over an extended period show a strong correlation between childhood and adolescent obesity. The study suggests that early intervention is crucial in preventing the progression of abnormal weight gain.
A survey of parents reveals that spiritual/religious support is essential when facing a child's death. The hospital should provide an environment hospitable to spirituality, offer multi-faith chapels, and encourage collaboration between clinicians and clergy.
U of MN researchers developed a mouse model for centronuclear myopathy, a poorly understood muscle disease. They found that knocking out the gamma actin gene impaired muscle cell function, leading to muscle cell death, and identified this protein as a key player in muscle structure.
Researchers at Ohio University have created a complex biological switch using a spinach molecule, which can be used to manipulate molecules and proteins. This switch has potential implications for basic science research, medical applications, computer technology, and green energy.
A team of NYU biologists has identified a gene, mel-28, that plays a crucial role in coordinating two cellular processes: chromosome segregation and nuclear envelope function. The study, published in Current Biology, used functional genomic tools to reveal the dual role of mel-28 in these processes.
A national survey of residents found that over half reported not receiving instruction on key interpreter use topics, despite federal regulations. The study highlights the need for better training and education to improve quality care for patients with limited English proficiency.
A study on liver transplant patients found that those with low bone density before transplant showed significant improvement afterwards. Bone loss immediately following transplant was common and several risk factors were identified, including PSC, younger age at transplant, and smoking.
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends including dairy foods in the diet of children with lactose intolerance to meet their nutritional needs. Dairy foods like milk, cheese, and yogurt provide an essential nutrient package that includes calcium, vitamin D, protein, and other nutrients.
A combination of a nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor and a protease inhibitor may prevent the negative cardiovascular effects of long-term protease inhibitor use, including hardening of the arteries. This could allow patients to take their medications without worrying about these side effects.
Research by Dr. Sara Connolly reveals that discrimination against women is a major factor in the pay gap between men and women scientists in UK universities, with almost a quarter of the disparity remaining unexplained.
Scientists discover GAL83 gene that allows plants to store carbon in roots, reducing damage from herbivore attacks. This adaptation enables plants to withstand voracious insects and extend seed production period.
A new risk factor for schizophrenia has been identified by UCLA scientists, with infants having a specific immune gene that closely resembles their mothers' being more likely to develop the disease. The study suggests that this genetic match may increase fetal susceptibility to schizophrenia, particularly in females.
A study by researchers at the University of Virginia Health System found that OROS methylphenidate (Concerta) improves driving performance in teen drivers with ADHD, reducing inattentive and hyperactive errors. The study suggests Concerta should be the initial treatment for teens with ADHD.
New analyses of the PROactive Study found that ACTOS (pioglitazone HCl) significantly reduced the risk of recurrent stroke in high-risk patients with type 2 diabetes, with a 47% reduction in incidence and a 28% decrease in combined risk of death, MI, or stroke.
Researchers at the University of Cambridge discovered that African pied babbler adults continue to care for their young after they stop feeding directly. The parents call the inexperienced fledglings to areas with readily available food, improving their foraging success rate.
A study of 124 women found that hormone-replacement therapy with progestin resulted in a 10-30% increase in hearing loss compared to estrogen-only or non-HRT groups. Women on progestin showed signs of damage in both the inner ear and brain used for hearing.
A study of internal medicine residents found that nearly a third committed at least one major error, leading to decreased quality of life and worsened burnout. Resident physicians who reported self-perceived errors were more likely to screen positive for depression and experience reduced empathy.
A recent study published in Pediatrics has found that children who are overweight at any stage of their growth before age 12 are more likely to be overweight by the time they are 12. The study examined over 1,000 children and discovered that preschool-age children who were medically determined to be overweight at one of three points of...
A study led by Pasi Jänne found that a single mutation in the EGFR protein can cause drug resistance in non-small cell lung cancer. The investigation demonstrated that even tiny quantities of this mutation can lead to resistance, challenging current treatment strategies.
Researchers have demonstrated how ultrasound can briefly open cell membranes to allow entry of therapeutic molecules, which could advance gene therapies and targeted chemotherapy. The cells then quickly close the door, allowing for non-invasive drug delivery.
A recent study published in the Journal of Nuclear Medicine reveals that diabetes mellitus significantly slows nerve recovery after a heart transplant. This finding highlights the importance of understanding nervous system abnormalities to guide therapeutic efforts aimed at reducing cardiac risk for patients with diabetes.
A study suggests that more aggressive treatment with statins is necessary to lower LDL cholesterol in patients with metabolic syndrome and coronary heart disease. The analysis found that intensive therapy with atorvastatin significantly reduced the risk of major cardiovascular events, particularly in patients with metabolic syndrome.
Researchers found that increasing protein in the diet augments the body's PYY hormone, reducing hunger and aiding weight loss. High-protein diets stimulate greater release of PYY than high-fat or high-carbohydrate meals.
Researchers used a genetic tool to activate specific neurons in fruit flies, revealing that two subsets of neurons are responsible for assigning positive or negative values to stimuli. This discovery advances our understanding of how animals learn to associate cues with experiences and has implications for more complex mammalian brains.