A Mayo Clinic study reveals that children with recurrent strep throat who retain their tonsils are at triple the risk of developing subsequent episodes. Tonsillectomy is found to be an effective treatment for this condition, decreasing infections and improving quality of life.
A USC study has identified a crucial protein involved in the formation of myelin, which could lead to new treatments for conditions such as multiple sclerosis. The research discovered that a protein called Par-3 plays a central role in regulating myelination by interacting with other molecules.
Scientists use NASA satellite data and computer modeling to track Yellowstone bison migration patterns and predict when they will leave public land for private property, reducing conflicts with ranchers. The project provides daily maps of snowpack depth and density to inform park officials' decisions.
Research found that baby rhesus monkeys with high maternal rejection and mild abuse had lower serotonin levels, associated with anxiety and depression. Abused females who became abusive mothers had reduced serotonin, suggesting a potential link between early abuse and intergenerational transmission of parenting behaviors.
A new study by McGill University researchers has found that a diet low in folate may increase the risk of developing colorectal cancer. The study demonstrates a clear link between low dietary folate and the initiation of colorectal cancer in animal models, with 1 in 4 mice on a folate-deficient diet developing at least one tumour.
The US Department of Defense has funded the Texas Nanotechnology Consortium to develop and commercialize revolutionary nanomaterials for defense aerospace applications. The consortium will partner with the Air Force Research Laboratory to create next-generation composites and smart materials, ensuring US air superiority.
Researchers from the University of Bonn have discovered how the eye adapts to darkness by forming a network that combines signals from multiple light-sensitive rods, boosting sensitivity. The study found that dopamine triggers the closure of a channel in amacrine II cells, inhibiting communication and allowing for signal focusing.
Researchers at Georgetown University Medical Center have reported a compound called tramiprosate that reduced levels of a marker for the progression of Alzheimer's disease. The study suggests the potential for slowing down disease progression by targeting the amyloid peptide, considered to be the molecular cause of the disease.
DNMT1 and G9a interact to positively influence each other's catalytic activities and maintain epigenetic marks. The interaction impairs histone H3K9 methylation when DNMT1 is knocked down.
The study found that monogamy is the dominant pattern globally, but multiple partnerships are more common in industrialized countries. Rates of condom use vary widely by country and region, with increasing trends in some areas.
A review of 268 qualitative studies on young people's (under 25's) sexual behavior found that factors influencing their decisions are strikingly similar worldwide. The study identified seven key themes, including unreliable indicators and social factors that affect condom use.
Researchers at the University of Rochester Medical Center have developed a potential new treatment for stroke using Activated Protein C, which has shown promise in reducing brain damage by 70 percent. The treatment aims to temper the side effects of current medication TPA and expand its 'window' beyond three hours.
A study by Université Laval researchers found that using an activated-carbon filtering pitcher can effectively reduce disinfection by-products, such as trihalomethanes and haloacetic acids, in tap water. The results show that the filter can reduce THM concentrations by up to 92% and HAA concentrations by 66%.
A team of researchers has successfully produced large, porous, hollow platinum spheres by using liposomes as blueprints. The spheres are made of continuous, branched platinum sheets and have potential applications in biomedical, catalytic, and optical fields.
A report warns of impending catastrophic collapse of all fish and seafood species by 2048, citing accelerating marine biodiversity loss as the primary cause. The study highlights the far-reaching consequences of this loss, including decreased ecosystem services such as water quality maintenance and coastal protection.
The Lancet calls out false allegations against Julio Frenk, Margaret Chan, and Elena Salgado, who are running for WHO Director-General. Frenk's tobacco control record is highlighted as a priority in Mexico.
Despite advances in treatment, Alzheimer's care has remained consistent since Alois Alzheimer's first patient presentation in 1906. Non-pharmacological strategies like bright-light therapy and aromatherapy are still used today to manage symptoms.
Researchers at Mayo Clinic have devised a novel approach to improving the effectiveness and safety of heart stents by magnetizing healing cells from a patient's blood. The cells are quickly drawn to magnetically coated stents, reducing blood clot formation by lining the site fully and quickly.
New analysis of 30,000-year-old Romanian fossils reveals a mix of human and Neandertal features, challenging the hypothesis that Neandertals were simply replaced by modern humans in Europe around 35,000 years ago. The study also shows that these early humans lacked full anatomical adaptations for hunting with spears.
Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh have developed a general model to study large-scale shape changes in responsive gels. Their gel lattice spring model captures two-dimensional deformations and chemical reactions within swollen networks of polymers, revealing dynamic patterns and oscillations in the gel's shape.
University of Minnesota researchers develop a reactive flash volatilization process that turns soy oil and glucose into hydrogen and carbon monoxide, significantly improving fuel production efficiency from renewable energy sources. The new process works 10-100 times faster than current technology, with no input of fossil fuels.
Genetic analysis of Xenoturbella, a worm-like creature, reveals its unique characteristics and confirms the common ancestry between humans and other chordates. The discovery provides insight into the evolution of brains in animals.
Researchers at Ohio State University have developed a new method to create polymer rings that can encapsulate and release specific molecules at specific times. The technique has the potential to be used in medicine, particularly in drug delivery and antibiotic development.
A review of global studies reveals that young people's sexual behavior is influenced by stereotypes about men and women's roles, leading to inadequate condom use. Social expectations, such as feeling pressure to have sex or worrying about one's reputation, can significantly hinder the effectiveness of safer sex campaigns.
Georgia Tech/Emory researchers used dopamine to create a polymer that stimulates nerve tissue to regrow and reconnect, offering a potential treatment for neurological disorders. The material degrades over time, allowing the nerve to grow in a hostile environment.
Researchers have identified TRP channel genes as crucial in nicotine dependence, which could lead to new treatments for tobacco addiction. The study uses C. elegans worms as a model to understand the genetics of nicotine dependence.
Researchers at Scripps Research Institute discovered that lowering core body temperature extends lifespan in mice, independent of calorie restriction. The study found a significant increase in median lifespan, with females living up to 20% longer and males by 12%.
According to a UGA study, most people consider spam more intrusive and irritating than direct mail. The researchers found that spam's inability to separate wanted messages from unwanted content makes it more frustrating.
Researchers at Duke University Medical Center discovered that zebrafish regenerate heart tissue through a mass of stem cells and protective cell layer interaction. Biochemical signaling between the cell mass and epicardial cells controls the regeneration process, involving growth factors such as fibroblast growth factors.
The University of Houston has received a $1.4 million grant to provide students with hands-on training in the petroleum industry. The donation includes the KINGDOM Suite software, which will be used for research and classes.
In ICU, multiple organ failure is the main cause of death, with central nervous system and cardiovascular failures being significant risk factors. In hospitals after ICU discharge, malignant tumors and exacerbation of cardiovascular disease are leading causes of death.
Researchers at Colorado School of Mines and Northeastern University report a new computational methodology to quantify interface mobility, overcoming limitations of past studies. The method efficiently addresses the effect of impurities, revealing a more severe impact on interface motion than previously thought.
Researchers have identified the AUF1 gene as a key susceptibility factor for septic shock, which claims thousands of lives annually. By targeting this gene, scientists hope to develop new treatments to combat the deadly condition.
A new study has shed light on the mechanisms controlling myelin formation, a process crucial for efficient nerve communication. Researchers found that Par-3 acts as a molecular scaffold to organize key proteins essential for myelination.
Researchers discovered how and where plant seeds store iron, a valuable finding to address global iron deficiency and malnutrition. Iron is stored in the vacuole of Arabidopsis seeds, with protein VIT1 playing a key role in its localization.
Researchers developed a new model to predict survival after liver transplantation, considering specific characteristics of donors and recipients. The model identified key factors impacting graft survival, including donor age and recipient MELD score.
Research suggests that common antacids like lansoprazole can interfere with bacteria that cause plaque buildup and gingivitis. By disabling these bacteria, the compounds may prevent inflammation and damage to gums. If confirmed in future studies, these compounds could be widely available in oral care products.
A leading expert calls for Europe to take the lead in family planning, citing its potential benefits in achieving MDGs. Despite low funding and support, family planning programmes have shown success in raising contraceptive practice and reducing fertility in developing countries.
Researchers demonstrate that quantum coherence is achievable in incommensurate electronic systems, contradicting previous assumptions. The study shows compatibility of wave functions across lattice-mismatched interfaces, paving the way for coherent device architecture with diverse materials.
A new study published in the journal Obstetrics & Gynecology found that midtrimester amniocentesis is associated with a lower risk of miscarriage than previously reported, with a rate of approximately 1 in 1,600 pregnancies. The study refutes the typically quoted 0.5% pregnancy loss rate and suggests it may be even lower than 0.1%.
A new study found that individuals who had tested positive for hepatitis C but later tested negative were significantly less likely to become infected again compared to those who had never been infected. This suggests that previous exposure to HCV may be protective against reinfection, possibly on an immunologic basis.
Researchers have developed a localized treatment that shrinks retinoblastoma tumors while avoiding chemotherapy side effects. The new treatment shows promise against certain breast, lung, prostate and colon cancers, offering a simpler and more effective alternative to current therapies.
New research suggests stress hormones can stimulate tumor cells to produce compounds breaking down tissue and facilitating metastasis. Beta-blocker drugs may slow cancer growth by blocking receptors.
A recent study challenges the practice of using Ashkenazi Jewish ethnicity as a proxy for genetic differences in breast cancer research, citing methodological problems and unintended consequences. The study highlights disparities in access to care and potential stigmatization, introducing gaps in testing and treatment for other groups.
A new study suggests microbes produce repugnant chemicals to compete with larger animals for valuable food resources like decaying meat and seeds. Microbes can outcompete other organisms if they can produce chemicals that make these resources unpalatable to higher species.
A five-year study will examine the causes of the dead zone in Lake Erie, focusing on excess phosphorous, zebra mussels, and global warming. Researchers aim to detect the cause and prevent further spread before affecting the fishery and tourism industries.
A large clinical trial found that pregnant women treated for gum disease during pregnancy did not have a significantly lower risk of premature birth. The study, the Obstetrics and Periodontal Therapy Trial (OPT), also showed no increase in adverse events from dental treatment during pregnancy.
A pig-sized, tusked creature discovered in Eritrea represents a missing link between ancient elephants and their modern counterparts. The finding suggests that mastodons and elephants originated in Africa, contradicting previous theories that placed their origins in Europe and Asia.
Undergraduate students from Rensselaer and Howard universities will participate in a research program combining mathematics, computational science, and real-world applications. The program aims to attract students with mathematical skills to fields like the biological sciences.
A new stretch targeting the plantar fascia has shown significant results in treating plantar fasciitis, with 75% of patients experiencing no pain and full activity within 3-6 months. The stretch, developed by Benedict DiGiovanni and Deborah Nawoczenski, requires repeated stretching exercises to alleviate chronic symptoms.
Researchers have successfully treated mice with gene therapy, reversing neurological damage and deficits caused by the genetic defect that leads to metachromatic leukodystrophy. The treatment involves using hematopoietic stem progenitor cells genetically modified to express high levels of ARSA protein.
The Human Performance Laboratory at FSU assesses how stress impacts critical decision-making skills, using medical simulation rooms and various tests. The research aims to develop new training protocols that prepare people to make life-or-death decisions under pressure.
A recent study found that 79% of carers rely on humour to manage their emotions, while 30% report a decline in emotional well-being due to caregiving. The research highlights the need for holistic support, focusing on carers' emotional needs.
Florida Institute of Technology (Florida Tech) has received two grants to continue and develop a new hurricane model. The first grant is $220,000 from the Florida Department of Financial Affairs Office of Insurance Regulation to predict hurricane insurance losses for commercial buildings. The team will also maintain an existing enginee...
A global study has found that pinpointing rare bird species isn't a reliable way to assume where other endangered animals occur. The research gathered data on 9,626 bird species, 4,104 mammal species, and 5,619 amphibian species to show that closer examination is needed for conservation efforts.
Researchers have found a way to protect muscle from degenerating after injury and improve muscle healing in mice by blocking the central signal molecule NF-kB. The study suggests two molecules with potential as promising drug targets for new therapies against muscle wasting.
A recent U of M study found that treating periodontal disease in pregnant women does not reduce the risk of preterm birth or low birth weight. The study, published in the New England Journal of Medicine, concluded that while treatment is safe and effective, it does not directly affect a woman's risk for these complications.
A recent study by the American Association for Cancer Research found that HPV tests are a better predictor of cervical cell abnormalities than Pap smears, particularly in older women. The researchers discovered that HPV-positive women aged 40 and above had a significantly higher risk of developing cervical cancer within 10 years.
Researchers developed a simple, noninvasive test to measure right ventricular function and predict survival of adults with pulmonary hypertension. The test, TAPSE, assesses echocardiographic abnormalities in the tricuspid valve and showed that patients with advanced right ventricular dysfunction had dramatically reduced survival rates.
Fermilab will continue to provide opportunities for discovery in particle physics with the Tevatron and neutrino experiments. The new management structure brings together scientific leadership and management experience of the University of Chicago and URA.