The study reveals that Clostridium difficile spores can thrive on asymptomatic patients and their surroundings, posing a significant transmission risk. This finding has dramatic implications for healthcare workers and recommends extending contact precautions to discharged patients with a previous history of CDAD.
French scientists Christian Sardet and Ali Saib have won the EMBO Award for Communication in the Life Sciences. They use innovative media to educate researchers, students, and the broader public about science.
The Economic and Social Research Council's (ESRC) largest-ever education research programme has identified key principles for effective teaching and learning. These principles are designed to support children's motivation, collaboration skills and intellectual challenge, as well as develop their ability to learn throughout life.
Yanczura supported the activation of the new Oxygen Generation Assembly on the International Space Station (ISS) and developed a real-time data connection system. He also trained the Hamilton Sundstrand staff on using the new technology, establishing it as a self-sustained project.
A recent study published in The Journal of Immunology found that SIV infection in monkeys does not always lead to AIDS, contradicting current thinking. Researchers propose that host/virus co-adaptation enables monkeys to limit T cell immune activation and apoptosis, a mechanism that contributes to disease progression.
A new topical lotion has shown high degree of safety and tolerability in treating toenail fungus. The treatment avoids systemic absorption, reducing risks of cardiac and liver toxicity associated with current oral medications.
Despite predictions of collapse, Amazon forests in drought-stricken regions grew more vigorously during the 2005 drought, indicating a positive response to drought conditions. This finding contradicts global climate models and suggests a negative feedback loop that could slow down global warming.
A new study found that children with language impairments struggle to recall story details, unlike their peers without impairments. Researchers emphasize the importance of engaging children in daily experiences to improve understanding and enjoyment of stories.
Researchers developed a method for assessing wind turbine removal and recycling, considering future impacts up to 2050. The study aims to reduce negative effects of wind power by adopting an interactive approach.
A new dinosaur species, Cerasinops hodgskissi, has been identified from a 80-million-year-old fossil found in Montana, sharing characteristics with Neo-ceratopsian dinosaurs in North America and Asia. The specimen, weighing 30-40 pounds and standing 3 feet tall, was discovered by Jack Horner and Brenda Chinnery in 1983.
Research suggests that genetic factors influence women's choices about parenthood, and that this may lead to a shift towards more traditional family structures. Dr. Lonnie Aarssen argues that biological evolution will drive future generations of women towards having children as a priority.
Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center have identified nearly 350 genes related to female fertility, providing a new understanding of the causes of female infertility. These discoveries may lead to improved diagnostic tests and tailored therapy for infertile women.
The new guidelines offer clear recommendations on diagnosis and management of cows' milk allergy (CMA), recommending only extensively hydrolysed and amino acid-based formulas. Alternative milks such as soy, sheep, and goat are not recommended due to risk of cross-reactivity.
The levels of vitamin E necessary to reduce oxidative stress are far higher than those commonly used in clinical trials, according to new research. Vitamin E supplements at these levels may help prevent or treat cardiovascular disease by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation.
Researchers developed a new maize model that simulates kernel formation, increasing accuracy of crop yield predictions. By accounting for pollen movement and other factors, the modified CERES-Maize model provides more accurate estimates across various environmental conditions.
A German-American research team has isolated bacteria from marine sediments that utilize propane and butane as their sole source of carbon and energy. These unique organisms employ an unprecedented biochemical mechanism to transform hydrocarbons into reactive metabolites.
Researchers found that a heat-shock response mechanism helps cancer cells survive and thrive, but inhibiting this process may lead to a new cancer treatment. The discovery also sheds light on the complex relationship between aging, longevity, and cancer risk.
Researchers at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem have identified a brain region, the planum temporale, as responsible for perceiving 'sound space', or the location of sounds. The study found that this region is activated when subjects are not concentrating on those sounds and can represent sound locations in a non-intentional manner.
A computer program developed by Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute can trace genetic ancestry in minutes using just a cheek swab, with 99% accuracy. The algorithm uses single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and has potential applications for understanding complex diseases and tailoring medical treatments.
A new NASA study reveals that Antarctic snow is melting farther inland from the coast over time, with increased melting at higher altitudes. This trend is linked to climate change, threatening Antarctica's role as a 'brake system' for glaciers.
A recent study published in Science confirms that Homo floresiensis, also known as the 'hobbit', is a distinct human species. The research focuses on the unique wrist bones of the hobbit, which show striking similarities to those of African apes and early hominins.
A study published in JCI Journals reveals that disturbances in sphingolipid metabolism may be a key factor in early pregnancy loss. Sphingosine kinase 1 (Sphk1) and Sphk2 proteins play a crucial role in metabolizing these fats, which are essential for placental development.
A study found that heat-shock transcription factor HSF1 enables normal cells to become cancerous by orchestrating proliferation and survival processes. Depriving cancer cells of HSF1 strongly suppresses their growth and survival, offering a potential new approach to fighting cancer.
Researchers at the University of Nevada Reno aim to solve fundamental questions about knots and low-dimensional manifolds using a new set of techniques. This study has implications for various scientific fields, including topology and materials science.
A new technique called back-scattering interferometry (BSI) measures the strength of interactions between free-floating biological molecules. BSI is sensitive enough to detect protein folding and has potential cost advantages over current techniques.
A brain system known to regulate food intake also controls fat storage and metabolism in the body completely independently of food consumption. The melanocortin system may be used to develop new medications to treat human obesity.
The use of insecticide-treated bednets leads to a significant reduction in child mortality, with estimated protection rates ranging from 34% to 56%. ITN coverage has increased rapidly in Kenya, with an estimated averting seven deaths for every 1000 ITNs used.
A team of researchers funded by the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases has solved the complete genome of Brugia malayi, a parasite that causes elephantiasis. This breakthrough reveals dozens of potential new targets for drugs or vaccines, offering new opportunities for understanding, treating and preventing the disease.
The Scarab robot is equipped with a drill and features a novel rocker-arm suspension that enables it to plant its belly on the ground for drilling operations. The robot will demonstrate technologies for finding concentrations of hydrogen, water, and other volatile chemicals on the moon.
Researchers at Penn Veterinary Medicine have successfully demonstrated the potential of a new strategy for genetic modification of large animals. By employing a harmless gene therapy virus, they can transfer genetic modifications to male reproductive cells, which are then passed naturally on to offspring. This approach has shown promis...
A recent study suggests that CT angiography can accurately diagnose aortic injuries in blunt trauma patients without the need for catheter angiography. In challenging cases, CTA offers a rapid and non-invasive diagnosis, potentially sparing patients from serious complications.
A new study published in Biological Psychiatry found that pedophilia patients exhibit reduced activation of the hypothalamus and frontal cortex when viewing sexually arousing pictures, indicating altered sexual interest. This deficit may predispose individuals vulnerable to pedophilia to seek alternative stimulation.
A global team of researchers has revealed the genetic sequence of Brugia malayi, a parasitic worm that causes debilitating diseases in over 40 million people. The study identifies dozens of potential new targets for drugs or vaccines, including genes involved in molting, immune signaling, and host metabolism.
Assistant professor John Drake is studying how West Nile virus differs between urban and rural areas using computer models and data on infected mosquitoes, birds, and humans. The goal is to provide recommendations for improving New York City's mosquito control strategies and early warning systems.
Researchers discovered that female Evarcha culicivora spiders prefer larger mates before mating, despite the risk of cannibalism. Once mated, females opt for smaller males, a finding that challenges traditional assumptions about spider mating behaviors.
Scientists at Harvard Medical School have identified two genes, SIRT3 and SIRT4, that play a vital role in maintaining cellular health and longevity. These genes help protect cells from diseases of aging when caloric restriction or exercise is applied.
A new study by American Museum of Natural History paleontologists reveals that velociraptor, a close relative of birds, had feathers. The discovery supports the idea that many dinosaurs were feathered, and challenges the common perception of velociraptors as scaly creatures.
A recent study published in The Lancet reveals that mental disorders are more common in rural settings in Mozambique compared to urban areas. The research found higher lifetime prevalence rates for psychoses, mental retardation, and seizure disorders in rural households.
A recent study investigated how judges and jurors make collective decisions, revealing that simple voting procedures are often preferred over more nuanced approaches. The findings suggest that groups tend to favor quick decisions, even if they lead to inconsistent outcomes.
A recent study published in Cell describes a chemical chain reaction, known as the Hippo pathway, that controls organ growth and may contribute to cancer. The researchers found that this pathway is altered in 20-30% of human cancer cells, suggesting a potential new target for cancer therapy.
Researchers found that a decrease in p53 activity in only 14 insulin-producing cells in the fly brain can significantly extend lifespan, supporting the link between metabolic regulation and aging. The findings also suggest a connection between aging and diabetes, providing a new laboratory model for studying these diseases.
Researchers have discovered a molecular mechanism that could lead to the development of new, potent antibiotics. The compounds mimic natural peptides and create 'holes' in bacterial membranes, causing cell death.
A new study finds that a quarter of teenage girls in abusive relationships say their partners are actively trying to get them pregnant. Healthcare providers should ask about the possibility of abuse and reproductive control in relationships, according to researchers.
A recent study led by the University of Pittsburgh Graduate School of Public Health found that low vitamin D levels are associated with a higher risk of hip fractures in women. The study analyzed data from 400 women who experienced hip fractures and found that those with lower vitamin D levels had a 77% increased risk.
The Arctic sea ice extent on Sept. 16 stood at 1.59 million square miles, lower than the long-term minimum average from 1979 to 2000 by about 1 million square miles. The minimum also breaks previous records set in 2005.
A new study in the Journal of Adolescent Health suggests that secondhand smoke exposure at home increases the risk of test failure in teens. Exposure to secondhand smoke decreased the odds of passing standardized achievement tests by 30 percent in 16- and 18-year-olds.
A recent study of over 200 patients found that 88% were happy with their surgery at the first post-operative clinic visit. Despite complications, 76% were satisfied with the cosmetic result and 80% said the surgery met their expectations. Common issues included vaginal hair growth, prolapse, and necrosis.
Researchers found that defects in protein glycosylation, a process adding sugars to proteins, promote inflammation and neurodegeneration in MS. A dietary supplement similar to glucosamine may correct these defects and treat both short-term and long-term symptoms.
The ASPB Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship (SURF) recognizes 34 students from US universities who received $3,000 fellowships to support their research projects. The program is funded by the ASPB Executive Committee and Good Works funds, and co-chaired by SURF founders Mark Brodl and Jon Monroe.
The NanTroSEIZE expedition aims to retrieve geological samples and provide scientific data from the Nankai Trough fault zone. The program will drill deeply into the Earth to observe earthquake mechanisms in a well-known subduction zone, providing new insights into naturally occurring processes responsible for earthquakes.
A new study reveals that protein SRP-6 can regulate cell death and potentially halt the progression of cancer, stroke, and heart disease. The research team discovered that SRP-6 can target the lysosome, protecting cells from stress and injury.
Researchers at UT Health Science Center have developed a smart particle insulin release system that detects blood sugar spikes and releases insulin to counteract them. The system, which consists of a blood sugar sensing protein and liposomes loaded with insulin, stabilized blood sugar levels in animal models for up to six hours.
Biologists have found that the influenza A virus migrates globally and mixes with other viral strains during the summer off-season before returning to the Northern Hemisphere as a genetically different virus. The research suggests widespread viral traffic across the equator, contributing to new epidemics in both hemispheres.
A recent study by Benjamin Sovacool recommends transitioning away from centralized coal and nuclear plants to small-scale decentralized generation technologies for a more sustainable energy sector. These alternatives are found to be feasible, affordable, environmentally friendly, reliable, and secure.
A new study published in The Lancet found that global under-5 mortality rates have fallen from 110 per 1000 in 1980 to 72 per 1000 in 2005. However, the target of a 67% decline by 2015 is unlikely to be met due to slow progress in sub-Saharan Africa.
Experts weigh in on the implications of personal genomics, considering what is possible now and in the future. They address potential ethical and legal issues that will arise with such technology.
A study found that individuals with a specific genetic variant (CYP2B6*6 allele) benefit from bupropion treatment and maintain abstinence longer than those without the variant. The study provides insight into personalized medicine for smoking cessation.
A mouse study suggests that high-glycemic index diets can cause fatty liver disease, while low-glycemic index diets may prevent it. Researchers plan a clinical trial to confirm the findings and explore reversing the condition in overweight children.
The Asia-Pacific region is being called upon to conduct thorough research on the benefits, risks, and impacts of biofuels on agriculture and food security. Key findings include the need to balance food and biofuel production to avoid competition for resources and ensure poverty alleviation.
A study by Dr. Matthew Oughton found that soap and warm water eliminate over 98% of C. difficile bacteria, while alcohol-based solutions are ineffective against spores. The protocol also confirmed washing hands with soap and water remains an excellent method to control nosocomial infections.