Researchers have developed a new non-invasive brain scan method using light to monitor the development of infants' brains. The technique, called high-density diffuse optical tomography, allows for the mapping of the visual cortex with high accuracy.
A systematic review found ICDs to be safe and effective in reducing mortality among patients with left ventricular systolic dysfunction. The devices reduced overall death from all causes by 20%, mostly due to a significant decrease in sudden cardiac deaths.
Researchers at OHSU demonstrate a new technique using contrast-enhanced ultrasound and targeted microbubbles to detect inflammatory processes leading to atherosclerosis. This could enable early detection and prevention of coronary heart disease and stroke, two of the nation's most lethal diseases.
The CU-Boulder team discovered the first ancient manioc field in the Americas, providing insight into how the Classic Maya supported dense populations. The field, buried under volcanic ash, was found to have been recently planted with manioc stalks, indicating a high level of agricultural productivity.
The Internet platform is being exploited by HIV denialists to spread false information about the virus, posing risks to both uninfected and infected individuals. The scientific consensus confirms that HIV causes AIDS, yet denying this fact can lead to distrust of authority and adoption of ineffective treatments.
Advanced age does not increase risk of death following liver transplant, according to a study. The authors analyzed 26 variables related to the recipients and found that preoperative hospitalization, cirrhosis caused by hepatitis C, and increasing model for end-stage liver disease (MELD) score were associated with higher death rates.
A study published in the Journal of Clinical Pharmacology found that pomegranate juice does not impair the clearance of oral or intravenous midazolam, a test drug used to assess CYP3A activity. This suggests that pomegranate juice is safe for patients taking medications.
Researchers found that heavy alcohol consumption is associated with lower CD4 cell counts and faster HIV disease progression in HIV-infected persons who are not on antiretroviral therapy. The study suggests that abstaining from alcohol use may decrease the risk of disease progression for these individuals.
Researchers at McMaster University have discovered a new molecular zip code and potential drug target for Huntington's disease. They found that mutant huntingtin protein can be prevented from entering the nucleus by kinase inhibitors, which may lead to effective treatment options.
A Stanford University School of Medicine study found that a case-management approach helped lower heart disease risks by approximately 10 percent among a diverse group of patients, making it a cost-effective way to improve patient outcomes. The study also showed significant benefits for patients with chronic conditions.
Researchers at Mount Sinai School of Medicine have identified taste receptors in the human intestines that sense glucose and regulate appetite. These receptors may lead to new treatments for obesity and diabetes by controlling blood sugar levels.
A observational cohort study from Côte d'Ivoire found that antiretroviral therapy according to WHO recommendations prevents mother-to-child HIV transmission. The study's findings support the WHO's guidelines for preventing perinatal and postnatal HIV transmission in West Africa.
Researchers identified a brain network in the frontal lobe associated with cognitive reserve, which builds through mentally-stimulating activities and provides protection against Alzheimer's disease. The study found that participants with higher levels of cognitive reserve could activate this network while working on difficult tasks.
Researchers used World of Warcraft to simulate a virtual epidemic, revealing the importance of individual behavior in spreading diseases. The outbreak, caused by a programming error, highlighted the limitations of computer models in predicting human behavior.
Researchers create nanoreactors with enzymes and plastic membranes to run three different enzymatic reactions simultaneously without interference. The system allows small molecules to pass through while trapping larger ones, enabling precise control over reaction cascades.
A study of over 300,000 genetic markers found a strong association between the ORMDL3 gene and an increased risk of childhood asthma. The research suggests that identifying this gene could lead to improved prevention and diagnosis of asthma.
Aging does not seem to affect people's ability to judge their own learning of text materials, according to a new study. Researchers found that older adults can regulate their learning more effectively if they have accurate self-evaluation skills.
A study found that unconscious racial biases among doctors can lead to disparities in medical treatment, with doctors showing a preference for treating white patients over black patients. The bias is not based on conscious attitudes but rather on implicit stereotypes of cooperativeness by race.
Researchers at Durham University have created a chemical compound containing fluorine that can be used in a 'chemically-sensitive MRI scan' to identify disease progression without biopsies. The compound reacts differently according to body acidity levels, highlighting tumors on the resulting scan.
Scientists at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital have found specific mutations that distinguish influenza viruses in birds from those that infect humans. These markers can be used to track changes in H5N1 avian influenza strains threatening humans, suggesting potential adaptation and spread.
Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center have developed a new eye-staining technique using Lissamine green to detect early stages of dry eye syndrome. The test reveals staining patterns that indicate the severity and progression of the condition, allowing for earlier diagnosis and more effective treatment options.
A new study suggests that infection with human adenovirus-36 (Ad-36) may contribute to the development of obesity in some individuals. The virus transforms adult stem cells into fat cells, leading to increased fat accumulation.
The team will develop a comprehensive set of hands-on learning activities aligned with the 12 Principles of Plant Biology. The project aims to engage middle school students in plant science education through inquiry-based learning and disseminate the materials to various settings.
Researchers identified an unusually high rate of severe allergic reactions to cetuximab among patients living in the middle South, with a 22% rate compared to 2% nationwide. The strongest predictor of a reaction was a history of other hypersensitivities.
A Northwestern University study found that participants who forecasted a breakup's impact actually felt less distress than expected. Those most in love were the biggest offenders, exaggerating their emotional pain. The research suggests people tend to be more resilient than they think, and recover from breakups sooner than predicted.
A new study reveals that cats can remember having stepped over an obstacle for at least ten minutes, but only if their forelegs have done so. In contrast, visual memories of the obstacle proved fleeting. This finding suggests that cats' working memories may be longer than previously thought.
Astronomers have identified Calvera, a bright X-ray source in Ursa Minor, as a promising candidate for an isolated neutron star, potentially the closest known. The team used NASA's Swift satellite and other telescopes to pinpoint its position and confirm its characteristics.
A large cohort study found that heavy drinking was associated with a higher risk of stroke in Chinese men. Drinking more than 21 drinks per week increased the risk by 22%, while heavier drinking correlated to higher mortality rates.
Researchers have created synthetic antibiotics called Teflon AMPs that are more resistant to bacterial defenses than their natural counterparts. These compounds mimic the immune system's early line of defense and show promise in battling a range of infections, including those caused by antibiotic-resistant bacteria.
Researchers design catalysts inspired by photosynthesis to produce fuels directly from carbon dioxide or water using renewable solar energy. They also reveal a jumpstart in organic electron transfer that could lead to technological advances in small-scale circuits for improving solar cells.
A new study by USC researchers suggests that children with specific genetic variations are more susceptible to developing asthma, particularly if they live near major roadways. The study found that high levels of microsomal epoxide hydrolase enzyme in response to vehicle emissions increased the risk for lifetime asthma.
Researchers at Rutgers developed novel biodegradable polymers incorporating natural antimicrobial agents to prevent bacterial biofilm formation on food surfaces and packaging. This approach offers a broader spectrum of microorganisms protection and avoids increasing antibiotic resistance.
Research reveals that estrogen receptors in the hypothalamus serve as a master switch to control food intake, energy expenditure, and body fat distribution. The study shows that when these receptors are destroyed, animals immediately begin to eat more, burn less energy, and gain weight.
A team of researchers is using cutting-edge neuroimaging technology to identify predictors of adaptive functioning in adults who survived pediatric brain tumors. The study aims to develop interventions to lessen the severity of late effects of treatment and optimize adaptive functioning across the patient's lifespan.
John P. Donoghue, a Brown University brain scientist, has been awarded the K.J. Zülch Prize for his groundbreaking research on translating thoughts into action, enabling people with paralysis to control devices using brain signals.
Researchers have discovered that sulforaphane can prevent severe blistering and skin breakage associated with the rare genetic disease EBS. The study, funded by various organizations, found marked improvement in treated mice, suggesting a potential therapeutic for this condition.
A recent study found that diabetics who use insulin pens have significantly lower healthcare costs compared to those who use syringes. The annual average healthcare costs were nearly $17,000 lower for pen users than for syringe users, resulting in substantial savings to diabetics and their insurers.
A study by University of Alaska Fairbanks researcher Hector Douglas found that crested auklets use chemical anointment during courtship to protect themselves from parasites like ticks. The birds rub their wick feathers with a citrus-like scent, which repels ticks and helps keep them healthy.
Researchers found African Americans experiencing racial discrimination more likely to report current tobacco use, recent alcohol consumption, and lifetime use of marijuana and cocaine. This association was also seen in Whites, suggesting that substance use may be an unhealthy coping response to perceived unfair treatment.
Researchers at Stanford Medicine have identified a pattern of gene expression shared by patients who successfully stopped taking anti-rejection drugs. This discovery may allow some transplant patients to reduce or eliminate their lifelong dependence on immunosuppressive drugs, improving their quality of life.
Researchers at Carnegie Mellon University have developed nanogels that can uniformly release encapsulated carbohydrate-based drugs, enabling targeted delivery to specific tissues like cancer cells. The nanogels are biodegradable and non-toxic, allowing for prolonged circulation time within the bloodstream.
A University of Missouri-Columbia researcher found that AIDS compounds poverty in households, especially when a primary income earner dies. Older women play a crucial role in day-to-day survival through government pensions and are more likely to be affected than infected with HIV/AIDS.
Researchers found that the northern portion of the Tibetan Plateau rose later than previously thought, revealing a complex timeline for the plateau's growth. This discovery can help climate models and understand ancient biological communities.
Lemaux's group will use the grant to update and expand materials for safe, robust, and environmentally friendly foods. The team plans to create a hands-on activity, the GENE-ie Juice Bar, to demonstrate DNA and genes in daily life.
HIV denialists are spreading misinformation about HIV/AIDS, which can have severe consequences. The scientific community has established that HIV is the cause of AIDS, but denialist groups continue to promote false ideas, putting people at risk of infection and seeking ineffective treatments.
A survey of 369 Florida high school students found that white Hispanic teens were more likely to use tanning beds and less likely to protect themselves from the sun, compared to their white non-Hispanic peers. White Hispanics have a lower rate of skin cancer but are often diagnosed at a later stage, suggesting differences in knowledge ...
Nitric acid is less reactive when exposed to air on water's surface, unlike its strong acidic behavior in bulk solutions. This finding has implications for understanding the role of nitric acid in the atmosphere and environment.
A predictive model, sCast, uses October snow cover in Siberia to predict winter temperatures and snowfall in the Northern Hemisphere. The model has been verified to accurately forecast winter conditions over much of eastern United States and Northern Eurasia.
A new study found that a compound in broccoli, known as DIM, may help boost the immune system. DIM was shown to increase blood levels of cytokines and stimulate white blood cells in mice, suggesting potential health benefits against infections and cancer.
Silicon nanoparticles can significantly enhance the performance of solar cells by improving power output and reducing heat. By integrating a high-quality film of silicon nanoparticles onto silicon solar cells, researchers achieved a 60% improvement in power performance in the ultraviolet range of the spectrum.
Chemical engineers discovered a fundamental flaw in the conventional view of how liquids form bubbles that grow and turn into vapors. The new findings apply to homogeneous nucleation and suggest multiple possible pathways for phase transition, potentially leading to practical safety benefits for industry.
Patients with respiratory problems face a higher risk of death during longer ambulance journeys, which can range from 0 to 58 kilometres. The study found that the further the patient has to travel, the more likely they are to die, with a 13% increase in mortality for those with breathing problems over 20km distances.
A study found that women with dementia start losing weight up to 20 years before diagnosis, due to reduced appetite and motivation. Men with dementia do not experience significant weight loss in the years leading up to diagnosis.
A team of mechanical engineers at Vanderbilt University has developed a revolutionary prosthetic arm that can lift up to 25 pounds and perform three times faster than current commercial arms. The arm is powered by a miniature rocket motor, allowing for greater power and function without the need for batteries.
Researchers at Penn State's Energy Institute have developed a process to produce jet fuel, gasoline, diesel fuel, and heating oil from coal using existing refineries. The process produces various hydrocarbon products, including fuel oil, gasoline, and diesel, which can be integrated into the refinery stream.
Researchers warn of the growing prevalence of ineffective and potentially dangerous fad treatments for autism. Despite limited scientific evidence, parents are often willing to try various therapies in hopes of finding relief for their child.
Researchers at UGA discovered that pectin reduces prostate cancer cell count by up to 40% through apoptosis. The study found pectin's anti-cancer properties under different treatment conditions, suggesting potential for developing pharmaceuticals or health-enhancing foods.
Researchers at Boston Medical Center are developing a computerized workstation called Louise to electronically prepare discharge plans for patients. Preliminary research shows that interventions using this technology can reduce inappropriate readmissions and increase patient satisfaction.
A University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine study reveals that African-Americans are disproportionately exposed to pro-tobacco advertising, with a concentration of tobacco ads 70% higher and 2.6 times more ads per person compared to Caucasians.
Research by Cindy Lustig and David Bissig found that people who use smart strategies, such as studying more than testing, show large improvements in memory. Meanwhile, those who focus on testing without studying do poorly. The study suggests that the way people approach training is more important than age or initial ability.
Dr. Elliot Meyerowitz has been awarded a grant from the American Society of Plant Biologists (ASPB) Foundation to develop a teacher-training program focused on plant science education public outreach. The program will use plants as model systems to address state biology standards in the Pasadena Unified School District.
A Tulane University study examines the relationship between alcohol consumption and stroke risk in a large sample of Chinese men, finding that heavy drinking increases the risk of stroke. The research reveals that even moderate levels of alcohol intake can lead to higher risk of death by stroke.
A new analysis has identified cancer-causing compounds, air pollutants, and other substances of concern in the production of carbon nanotubes. Researchers are working with industry partners to develop environmentally sustainable manufacturing methods and filter systems to minimize hazardous by-products.
Researchers found that dense breasts and high hormone levels increase breast cancer risk by 400% and 200%, respectively. The study also showed additive effects, where women with both dense breasts and excess hormones face a 600% increased risk.
The Virginia Tech plant scientists will develop and disseminate four interactive web-based flash animation modules to teach plant biology and genetics. The project aims to reach a wider audience of high school students, teachers, and plant scientists, promoting STEM education and research collaborations.
Scientists say polar ice clouds could be a symptom of climate change due to increased carbon dioxide in the lower atmosphere causing cooling in the upper atmosphere. Noctilucent clouds form under conditions that counter common logic, only forming in summer when solar radiation is most intense.
Research found that patients traveling farther to reach their physician are more likely to have thicker skin cancer at diagnosis. Longer distances were associated with increased Breslow thickness, and rural locations and lack of dermatologists in the area also contributed to poorer outcomes.
Research links exhaust fumes to increased asthma risk in genetically susceptible children, particularly those with high microsomal epoxide hydrolase activity and GSTP1 genetic variants. Children exposed to road traffic pollution are also at greater risk of developing asthma.
Researchers discovered how bacteria produce desferrioxamines, leading to new ways to treat Fire Blight disease in orchards and human iron overload. The study also identified a more efficient method for producing the pharmaceutical desferrioxamine B.
Patients with Medicaid and those lacking insurance have a higher risk of being diagnosed with advanced-stage laryngeal cancer at diagnosis. This association holds true across various demographic groups, emphasizing the importance of access to healthcare for cancer screening and treatment.
Researchers at Georgia Tech and Emory University developed a nanoparticle that can detect and image trace amounts of hydrogen peroxide in animals. This innovation could lead to the creation of a simple diagnostic tool for detecting early stages of various diseases.
The National Human Genome Research Institute is funding two new centers to explore genomic mechanisms in vertebrate diversity. The centers will use the stickleback fish model to identify genetic signatures driving adaptive changes, with potential implications for human diseases.
Pain researchers at Washington University School of Medicine have made a breakthrough in understanding the complex relationship between opiate drugs and their addictive effects. By isolating the analgesic effects from morphine, scientists can potentially develop more effective treatments for pain while minimizing the risk of addiction.
A study of UK trainee doctors found they were gaining less experience in performing common practical procedures, such as suturing and wound exploration. The decline in hands-on experience may be attributed to formal teaching and assessments, or senior staff taking over procedures to meet waiting time targets.
Scientists have found evidence that archaea and other life domains coexisted for at least 2.7 billion years, challenging current understanding of the history of life on Earth. The discovery was made in a deep Canadian gold mine, where oily lipid remains of ancient archaea were analyzed using advanced techniques.
A team of Penn State engineers discovered that combining coal with papermaking black liquor waste creates a synthesis gas that can be converted into DME, a clean-burning fuel. This process reduces the carbon footprint of traditional coal-to-liquid processes and offers a more efficient alternative to burning black liquor for heat.
Research found 90% of patients with multiple aura types had seizures originating from the non-dominant side of their brain. Epilepsy surgery was effective in stopping seizures in over half of study participants.
Princeton physicists have made the first real-time observation of low-energy solar neutrinos, confirming a long-held theory about the sun's nuclear reactions. The observation provides precise measurements of the neutrinos' energy and confirms that we understand how the sun shines.
Researchers discovered a clear preference for pink or reddish hues among women, shifting their color preference towards red and away from blue. The study suggests that this difference may be driven by biological factors, potentially related to evolution and the importance of ripe fruit in hunter-gatherer societies.