Research on microfluidics widens the possibilities for electronic devices through electrowetting-based liquid-state-field-effect transistors (LiquiFETs). These devices can directly convert charge-related information from liquids into electronic signals, enabling real-time evaluation and adjustment of drug delivery.
A recent study analyzed the elephant shark genome, revealing ancient genes lost during human and teleost fish lineages. The findings suggest that elephant sharks are a valuable model organism for studying vertebrate genome evolution.
Elliott Garber, a third-year veterinary student at Tufts University, has been awarded the prestigious NIH Fogarty Fellowship to conduct research on cryptosporidium and rotavirus in India. The one-year fellowship will provide him with clinical research training experience in a resource-poor setting.
A new study warns that forest elephants are facing intense poaching pressure due to the illegal ivory trade. The researchers found only 1,900 elephants remaining in Salonga National Park, with the probability of encountering them increasing with distance from roads.
A University of Colorado study found that intensive psychotherapy added to medication significantly improved bipolar disorder symptoms, with patients experiencing better mental health faster. The research also highlighted the importance of family-focused therapy in stabilizing daily routines and coping strategies.
A new computer model developed at the McGovern Institute for Brain Research at MIT has been shown to perform as well as humans on rapid visual categorization tasks, even making similar errors. The model follows the organization of the brain's visual system and can help neuroscientists explore brain mechanisms involved in human visual p...
Researchers found that regular high-dose inhaled corticosteroid use among COPD patients lowered the risk of developing lung cancer. The study, published in the American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, found a significant reduction in relative risk for users of over 1,200 micrograms per day.
Research suggests that nitric oxide and nitrite released by pollen grains trigger allergic responses in the nose. The study, funded by the Wellcome Trust, aims to investigate the role of these compounds in human cell inflammation during hayfever.
A new study published in Pediatrics found that a pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV7) can help reduce the number of infants and toddlers developing frequent ear infections. The vaccine was shown to decline frequent ear infections by 16% in Tennessee and 25% in New York.
The NIAID is awarding $23 million per year for seven years to establish six Centers of Excellence for Influenza Research and Surveillance. These centers will bolster influenza research in key areas, including understanding how the virus causes disease and how the human immune system responds to infection with the virus.
Researchers at Rush University Medical Center are part of a worldwide effort to create an easy-to-use, affordable test to measure immune systems in HIV-positive patients. The CD4 Initiative aims to provide rapid, robust, and affordable diagnostic tools to healthcare workers in developing countries.
A new study found that pregnant women who gain excessive or adequate weight are four times more likely to have an overweight child. The study suggests reevaluating current pregnancy weight guidelines, as excessive weight gain during pregnancy can influence child health and increase the risk of obesity.
A 40,000-year-old human skeleton found in China suggests that modern humans may have migrated to the region via multiple routes rather than a single 'out of Africa' event. The discovery provides valuable insights into the emergence of modern humans in eastern Asia.
Researchers found that specialist fruit fly Drosophila sechellia is losing genes for smell and taste receptors at a faster rate than its generalist relative Drosophila simulans. This adaptation may help the flies adjust to eating specific plants.
Researchers have identified a growth-factor antibody that may treat chronic lung disease affecting premature infants. The treatment, which inhibits transforming growth factor-beta activity, improved lung development and body growth in animal models of bronchopulmonary dysplasia.
A study by Conservation International finds that existing protected areas remain effective in the early stages of climate change, but adding new ones would maintain species protection in future decades and centuries. The research concludes that anticipating the need for new protected areas and getting them created in the short term wil...
A study published in Archives of General Psychiatry found a significant association between cocaine and amphetamine abuse and an increased risk of stroke. The use of these stimulant drugs may raise blood pressure and contribute to narrowing blood vessels, leading to an increased risk of hemorrhagic and ischemic strokes.
A recent NIDA study has identified genes associated with an individual's ability to quit smoking. The research, published in BMC Genetics, found 221 genes that distinguish successful quitters from those who struggled to stop smoking.
Newborn babies in poor countries are missing out on routine hearing tests, leading to irreversible deficits in speech and cognitive development. A policy paper calls for increased funding for neonatal hearing tests through public-private partnerships.
According to Northwestern University physician Kristi Kirschner, people with physical disabilities often encounter structural problems when trying to obtain basic care and life-saving diagnostic tests. This can lead to humiliating and terrifying experiences, as well as increased risk of injury or death.
Dr. Timothy M. Swager has invented amplified fluorescent polymers that can detect nitro aromatic molecules, a class of chemicals used in explosives. His molecular wire sensors have applications in healthcare, environmental monitoring and security.
Researchers discovered a reversible 'breathing' action in nanoporous materials, with a 230% increase in volume, similar to the lungs' function. The materials can be expanded by immersing them in solvents, and then reversed by heating, exhibiting remarkable selectivity in gas absorption.
Endoscopic ligation is cost-effective for cirrhotic patients if quality-adjusted life years are considered. Ligation prevents more deaths and episodes, but is not as cost-effective when only life-years are considered.
A new medical device developed by University of Cincinnati researchers could identify olfactory disorders that may be an early warning sign for Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and other conditions. The Sniff Magnitude Test uses a simple observation to measure sniff size when detecting odors.
Teens who receive state health insurance through programs like Child Health Plus see improved access to care, reduced racial disparities, and increased preventive services. The program eliminates disparities in care among adolescents, bringing the percentage of all teens seeking care with the same healthcare professionals up to 95%.
Researchers developed a non-invasive method to predict advanced fibrosis in patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) using routine clinical and laboratory values. The study found that age, hyperglycemia, body mass index, platelet count, albumin, and AST/ALT ratio were independent indicators of advanced liver fibrosis.
Historical analyses of the 1918 Spanish influenza pandemic reveal that cities with early public health measures had lower peak weekly death rates and overall mortality compared to those that waited. Implementing multiple social containment measures within a few days of first local cases recorded cut peak death rates by up to half.
Astrophysicists at the University of Illinois propose a new method to measure the fine-structure constant using relic radiation from the birth of the universe. This technique could help explain dark energy and constrain a
Scientists discovered a new strategy for bacterial communication called efficiency sensing, which combines existing theories of quorum sensing and diffusion sensing. This approach takes into account the spatial distribution of bacteria, addressing the limitations of traditional models.
Overweight and obese individuals are at a 50% increased risk of developing asthma, with targeted interventions potentially reducing incidence. Obesity contributes to various respiratory issues, including reduced lung function and increased oxygen cost of breathing.
A six-year UK study identified 12 major complications from epidural pain relief, including epidural abscesses and meningitis. Researchers call for a national database to track these complications and identify risk factors.
Researchers have discovered two species of arthropods that use distinct methods to combat the cold: Onychiurus arcticus loses water through dehydration, while Cryptopygus antarcticus accumulates anti-freeze compounds to lower its freezing point. These findings provide insight into the evolutionary adaptations of these animals.
Researchers discovered that power-law distributions are common in various systems, including the internet, due to the 'rich get richer' effect. This phenomenon can be influenced by tradeoffs between network distance and connection numbers.
Researchers at Northern Arizona University have identified possible caverns on Mars that could provide a habitat for future explorers and potentially preserve evidence of past or present microbial life. The team used techniques developed for cave detection on Earth to analyze images from the Mars Odyssey mission.
The HealthGrades study found that patient-safety incidents rose 3% over the years 2003 to 2005, resulting in 1.16 million preventable incidents and 247,662 deaths. Top-performing hospitals had a 40% lower rate of medical errors compared to the poorest performers.
A study estimates that individuals with autism incur approximately $35 billion in annual costs to society, primarily due to lost productivity and adult care. These costs can be felt well into adulthood, highlighting the need for financial planning and counseling for families of children with autism.
Ms Bhavini Patel, Director of Pharmacy at Royal Darwin Hospital, has received a two-year Fellowship to address the evidence-practice gap in treating chronic kidney disease in Indigenous Australians. She aims to increase use of arteriovenous fistula for haemodialysis, reducing hospitalizations and complications.
A nationwide survey of pediatricians found that nearly two-thirds use patient family members to relay health information, while only 40% use professional interpreters. Pediatricians in rural areas or states with higher non-English proficient populations are less likely to use translation services.
A new study reveals that forest elephants are being pushed into remote depths of national parks due to heavy poaching for ivory near roadways. Protected areas, however, are critical to elephant survival, with some areas experiencing increased abundance despite road access.
A study found that individuals without health insurance are more likely to forego routine physical exams and have a higher risk of unawareness of high blood pressure, diabetes, or high cholesterol levels. Hypertension is the most powerful risk factor for stroke, and those without insurance had poorly controlled hypertension.
A study published in Archives of General Psychiatry found that intensive psychotherapy was more effective than brief therapy in treating bipolar depression. Patients who received intensive psychotherapy had a faster recovery rate and were more likely to stay well over time.
Researchers found that up to 36% of people with mild traumatic brain injury suffer from circadian rhythm sleep disorder, which can worsen other symptoms. The study highlights the need for improved diagnosis and treatment of sleep disorders in these patients.
A University of Minnesota study found that parents of children with autism are less likely to report receiving ideal primary care compared to parents of children with other special health care needs. Parents reported difficulties obtaining subspecialty care and challenges in receiving family-centered, comprehensive, and coordinated care.
NJIT awarded a 5-year, $3-million NSF grant to enhance math and science education in Newark high schools. The program aims to infuse computational methods into classrooms, promoting research integration and improving student understanding of practical applications.
The University of Minnesota will receive funding to monitor domestic and international wild bird populations for avian influenza viruses, aiming to rapidly identify pandemic threats. The center's research will support public health strategies for controlling the impact of an influenza pandemic.
Young adults who abuse amphetamines are five times more likely to have a hemorrhagic stroke than non-abusers, while cocaine abuse doubles their likelihood of having either a hemorrhagic or ischemic stroke. The study highlights the dangers of methamphetamine use among young people.
The UGA-Emory collaboration will study influenza virus adaptation, transmission, and human immune responses. Researchers will also explore the genetic factors of flu spread and develop new antivirals.
A one-visit screening technique for cervical cancer shows safety, acceptability, and feasibility in Ghana. The single-visit procedure involves applying acetic acid to detect precancerous areas, followed by cryotherapy to eliminate abnormalities.
UC Davis has been named a partner in a new $18.5 million national research center to study influenza viruses with pandemic potential. The Center for Rapid Influenza Surveillance and Research will expand the federal government's early-detection program for influenza and help reduce the chances of deadly outbreaks.
Researchers at Ohio State University found that male mice developed squamous cell carcinoma tumors earlier and had more aggressive tumors than female mice. The study suggests that gender-linked differences in antioxidants may be the key reason behind this disparity.
A recent study published in the journal SLEEP found that healthy older men who get less nighttime sleep have lower morning testosterone levels. The study, conducted by Plamen Penev, MD, PhD, used polysomnography and wrist activity monitoring to measure sleep duration and its impact on testosterone levels.
A new study published in the journal Sleep found that sleep disturbance increases spontaneous pain in women. The study, conducted by Michael T. Smith and colleagues, used polysomnography to assess 32 healthy females and found that fragmented sleep profiles led to impaired natural pain control mechanisms.
Male crayfish bluff with weak claws to intimidate opponents and gain dominance, while females' claw size is an honest indicator of strength. This study reveals that dishonesty plays a more significant role in animal communication than previously thought.
A multi-disciplinary panel of experts from eight countries examined emergency medical responses to blast events and identified commonalities that can be used to enhance preparedness worldwide. These findings highlight the importance of pre-defined command structures, regular triage guidelines, and effective scene security measures in r...
Researchers at the University of Bristol found that treatment with beneficial soil bacteria activated neurons producing serotonin, a key brain chemical linked to depression. This discovery sheds light on why some individuals are vulnerable to mood disorders like depression and may lead to new treatments.
Researchers found that fats in the stomach reduce vitamin C's ability to protect against cancer-forming compounds. The presence of lipids overrides the antioxidant effect, allowing harmful nitrosating species to form.
Research reveals tree frogs maintain grip by keeping toe pad angle low, detaching at 90°. Larger species adapt to grasp objects, allowing them to climb like humans.
A recent study found that reducing calorie intake later in life can induce health and longevity benefits similar to lifelong calorie reduction. The researchers discovered that certain drugs mimic this effect, which may lead to the development of new
Actigraphy is a reliable tool for evaluating sleep disorders, including advanced sleep phase syndrome, delayed sleep phase syndrome, and shift work disorder. It also helps characterize circadian rhythms and sleep patterns in patients with insomnia and hypersomnia.
A study led by USC and Harvard researchers identified multiple genetic risk factors that predict a man's probability of developing prostate cancer. The findings highlight the importance of this region in prostate cancer, providing potential tools for early screening and prevention efforts.