A study found that more sensitive Chlamydia testing led to a significant increase in reported cases, with a 62% jump in female infections and a 56% rise in male infections between 1992 and 2003. The shift from culture tests to nucleic acid amplification testing (NAAT) is believed to be the primary cause of this increase.
UF researchers identified a gene called focal adhesion kinase (FAK) that produces an enzyme creating a protective barrier for cancer cells. Blocking this interaction with protein VEGFR-3 kills malignant cells. The findings open new avenues for improved cancer therapies.
Researchers developed an early-warning system that uses population vulnerability, rainfall, and health surveillance to predict changes in seasonal disease patterns. The system provides health service managers with warnings of changes in epidemic risk five months before the peak malaria season.
A randomized controlled study found that pretreating patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) undergoing chemotherapy with lamivudine significantly reduces the risk of Hepatitis B reactivation and severe hepatitis. The study identified a lower viral load threshold as a better predictor of relapse.
Children with asthma living in multi-family housing are at risk due to high indoor nitrogen dioxide levels. The study found that homes with gas stoves had significantly higher concentrations than those with electric stoves, posing a greater threat to respiratory health.
A study of 93 critically ill patients found that hydrocortisone supplementation improved ventilator weaning success rates, especially in those with renal insufficiency. The treatment reduced mortality and morbidity in mechanically ventilated patients with adrenal insufficiency.
Researchers genetically engineered an adenovirus to produce a protein from the H5N1 influenza virus, protecting mice from death and weight loss when infected with the virus. The human adenovirus vaccine generated specific T cells that helped clear the virus, offering a viable option for potential pandemic vaccination.
Astronomers have discovered a new planet, 2003 UB313, which is larger than Pluto and located in the Kuiper Belt. The object's size was determined through thermal emission measurements, revealing a diameter of approximately 3000 km.
Researchers have discovered 60 new genes controlled by a specific DNA sequence, known as CArG boxes. These regulatory sequences may hold the key to understanding complex diseases such as heart failure and nerve disorders, which could lead to new treatment options.
Researchers have discovered a functional interaction between the genes MECP2 and BDNF, which could lead to new therapeutic opportunities for Rett syndrome patients. By modulating BDNF expression, it may be possible to delay or reverse disease progression.
A team of biologists developed improved software to analyze virus structures, revealing new details about the Epsilon 15 virus that infects salmonella. The advancements enable scientists to observe previously invisible features, including non-symmetric components and a core with unknown function.
Researchers discover that cellular transformation in mice and humans with asthma and chronic bronchitis leads to overproduction of mucus. A combination of two drugs, EGFR and IL-13 inhibitors, can prevent this transformation and normalize airway lining in patients.
The Mayo Clinic study found a significant association between high levels of HtrA1 in placental tissues and severe preeclampsia. The findings may lead to the development of a blood test to track HtrA1 levels, enabling early detection and management of preeclampsia.
A text messaging service reduced the average number of days to diagnosis from 11 to under 8, saving staff time and costs. The study found that a text messaging service minimizes the risks of missed results and is often more acceptable for patients with limited access to landlines.
A two-part study found that reducing available choices led to increased selection of low-fat entrées in elementary schoolchildren. Surveying foodservice directors and principals revealed few schools have nutrition policies for competitive foods, with those that do being more likely enforced.
Researchers at VIB have discovered the mechanism behind reduced inflammation in mice, which produces just enough interferons to activate the immune system against bacteria. This finding is relevant to the quest for new therapeutics for bacterial infections and may provide a breakthrough in combating these deadly diseases.
Researchers identified a specific set of genes expressed differently in individuals with eosinophilic esophagitis (EE), a chronic disease causing inflammation in the esophagus. The study found that eotaxin-3 levels were significantly higher in EE patients, suggesting potential therapeutic targets.
A growing concern over lack of funding for UK sexual health services has raised alarm among experts. Despite government commitments, many clinics struggle with long waiting times and restricted access, hindering effective STI diagnosis and treatment.
A study found that African American infants with the common genetic variation Y1103 are 24 times more likely to die from SIDS than those without it. The variation affects sodium channels in cardiac muscle cells, increasing the risk of abnormal heart rhythms and sudden death.
The study aims to explore how investors value the reporting of social, industry cohort and governance information. UW-Madison School of Business professor Holder-Webb will lead a team to investigate this issue.
The US Department of Energy's INCITE program has awarded 18 million hours of supercomputing time to 15 teams for various research projects. These projects include simulating aircraft design, studying Parkinson's Disease, and understanding climate change.
The ALLHAT study found that diuretics are more beneficial than calcium channel blockers, ACE inhibitors, or alpha blockers as initial treatment to lower blood pressure. Diuretics are well-tolerated with few side effects, making them a cost-effective choice for first-line blood pressure treatment.
A Hebrew University researcher found genetic differences in 85 dancers and advanced students, affecting serotonin and vasopressin receptors. These variations were also reflected in questionnaire results, highlighting a 'dancer type' with heightened communication and spiritual traits.
A genetic mutation in a heart protein has been identified as a risk factor for sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) in African American infants. Diabetic patients may benefit from a nerve survival protein called GDNF to treat gastrointestinal disorders related to diabetes.
Researchers have alleviated symptoms of Rett syndrome in mice by hyper-expressing the BDNF gene, which showed a drastic reduction in lethargy and improved cortical neuron activity. The findings may lead to potential therapeutic strategies for treating the condition.
A team at UC Irvine will receive a $1.5 million grant to develop computer-based simulations of pandemic flu and other infectious disease outbreaks. The research aims to improve understanding of how to prepare for and contain the spread of such diseases.
The Society of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging (SNM) has awarded a $25,000 grant to aid in the development of new pilot projects focused on molecular imaging and nuclear medicine for cancer diagnosis and treatment response. The grant will support research led by Dr. Yu at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center.
Researchers argue that targeting childhood obesity prevention is crucial in reducing adult obesity and associated chronic disease. Interventions during critical periods like the perinatal period and puberty/adolescence could have long-term effects.
A multidisciplinary study recommends increasing the practicality of using biofuels and biomaterials as a supplement to petroleum. The group suggests exploring a broader spectrum of materials, including agriculture wastes and fast-growing trees, to address current transportation fuel needs.
Researchers found that overexpression of Nod1 inhibits estrogen-dependent tumor growth in human breast cancer cells, leading to reduced tumor formation and growth. The study suggests a new mechanism for controlling estrogen-sensitive breast cancers and opens the door for future development of novel therapeutics.
A study found that 31.4% of non-Latino and 48.4% of Latino WIC clients use medicinal herbs for childhood illnesses, with most being low-risk. The researchers urge herbal education in WIC clinics to address potential risks and ensure safe use.
The European Space Agency's workshop on telemedicine for Africa aimed to demonstrate the relevance of space technology in improving and complementing African health service structures. The event highlighted the need for a comprehensive picture of opportunities for telemedicine via satellite services, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa.
Researchers dispelled the myth that eating late at night causes weight gain. Female rhesus monkeys on a high-fat diet gained 5% more weight after having their ovaries removed, showing ovarian hormones play a role in weight balance. The study found no correlation between late-night eating and weight gain.
Researchers uncover first molecular insight into eosinophilic esophagitis by identifying genetic program distinguishing it from other forms of esophagitis. The study reveals eotaxin-3 as a key gene contributing to the disease, offering new potential for diagnosis and therapy.
Research reveals omega-6 fatty acids stimulate inflammatory genes associated with cancer, particularly in prostate tumors. Studies found that adding omega-6 to growth medium doubled tumor growth compared to control groups.
Researchers have found that brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) can alleviate disease symptoms in a mouse model of Rett Syndrome. Increasing BDNF levels slowed down disease progression and improved mouse survival, suggesting potential therapeutic applications for the disorder.
A new study published in the Journal of the American Dietetic Association reveals that more principals than school foodservice directors reported enforced policies, but many expressed misconceptions about nutritional standards. The researchers found few school nutrition policies related to competitive foods, particularly in areas such ...
Researchers have made a breakthrough in understanding how viruses infect cells using cryoelectron microscopy and computational methods. The study reveals the importance of proteins beyond the surface shell in binding to host cells, injecting DNA, and packaging it during virus formation.
A study of 270 individuals with chronic arm pain found that patients receiving sham acupuncture reported a more significant decrease in pain and symptom severity than those receiving placebo pills. The results suggest the medical ritual of a device can deliver an enhanced placebo effect beyond that of a placebo pill.
Researchers identified a common cardiac sodium channel variant, SCN5A S1103Y, as a risk factor for sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) in African Americans. The study provides new insights into the genetic causes of SIDS and highlights the importance of understanding the interplay between genetic and environmental factors.
Researchers discovered a unique toxin shared by spider venom and certain bacteria, suggesting lateral gene transfer between the two. The study's findings may lead to developing treatments for brown recluse bites and corynebacterial toxins.
Researchers found that a four-year study combining weight-bearing exercise and calcium supplementation increased bone mineral density in women by 1-2%, reversing typical loss of BMD with age. The regimen, developed for the BEST Study, includes six core exercises to build bone in key fracture sites.
The Society of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging (SNM) has awarded $75,000 in grants to support innovative pilot projects in molecular imaging/nuclear medicine research. The grants will fund research projects focused on cancer diagnosis and treatment response, including the use of existing radiotracers for new applications.
The MIDAS research team will develop mathematical and statistical models to detect hospital-based outbreaks of antimicrobial-resistant infections. They will analyze health data from various sources, including Harvard Pilgrim Health Care and Kaiser Permanente Northern California, to identify potential outbreaks.
The Models of Infectious Disease Agent Study (MIDAS) network has welcomed four new research teams to aid in developing preparedness plans for outbreaks. The new teams will use computer modeling techniques to simulate infectious disease spread and evaluate the effects of public health measures.
Astronomers have calculated the density of binary asteroid Patroclus, suggesting it is composed mostly of water ice covered by a patina of dirt. The team proposes that Patroclus and other Trojan asteroids may be dirty snowballs formed in the outer reaches of the solar system.
Dr. Culbertson is developing universally applicable methods for detecting and identifying proteins and peptides in very small sample volumes without tagging molecules. His goal is to miniaturize chemical analysis instrumentation for point-of-care diagnostics, improving disease detection and treatment.