A Michigan Medicine study found that half of seniors have geriatric conditions affecting daily living, such as falls and incontinence. The study highlights the need for clinicians to address these common conditions, which can lead to disability if left untreated.
Researchers at Duke University found that high-intensity focused ultrasound can activate the immune system to attack cancer cells, including those that have spread through the bloodstream. The treatment uses mechanical vibration to break apart tumor cells, releasing toxic substances that alert the immune system to cancer threats.
Researchers at Kennedy Krieger Institute discovered separate adaptable networks controlling each leg and leg movements, e.g., forward or backward walking. This finding enhances understanding of motor skills and brain plasticity, signaling advancements for future rehab practices.
A new University of Michigan study shows the wealth gap is increasing steadily, with the top 2% of families seeing a nearly doubling of their net worth, while the poorest quarter of families lose ground. The poorest ten percent of families even have negative net worth.
A study published in the Journal of Women's Health found that few older women with significant risk factors for lifetime exposure to HIV showed interest in being tested. The study, which analyzed data from 514 women aged 50-95, found that only 22% of participants expressed interest in HIV testing.
Argonne scientists have won three R&D 100 awards for groundbreaking innovations in teleconferencing software, chemical gas detection, and medical imaging. The Access Grid platform enables global collaboration, while Passive Millmeter-Wave Spectroscopy provides a new tool for fighting terrorism. The Ultra-High Resolution Mammography Sys...
Worcester Polytechnic Institute has received funding to develop a precision location system for emergency responders. The system will track the movement and physiological status of workers, addressing two leading causes of firefighter deaths: stress-related heart attacks and getting lost indoors.
Penn researchers identified how regulatory protein Bcl-3 regulates inflammation by blocking ubiquitination, a critical biochemical process. This discovery opens new avenues for developing therapies to treat infectious or inflammatory diseases such as sepsis and rheumatoid arthritis.
A recent study by UCLA's Center on Everyday Lives of Families found that convenience foods are commonly used in American families' dinners despite initial expectations. On average, meals took 52 minutes to prepare, with no significant time savings from relying on convenience foods. The study also revealed that mothers bear the brunt of...
A Michigan-CDC study analyzed 43 US cities during the 1918-1919 Spanish flu pandemic and found that sustained non-pharmaceutical interventions (NPIs) like quarantine, isolation, school closures, and public gathering cancellations significantly reduced mortality rates. The study's findings challenge conventional wisdom on the effectiven...
A study by University of Southern California researchers found that bacteria-free fruit flies lived as long as their bacterial counterparts, challenging conventional wisdom about the impact of microbes on lifespan. The finding suggests that factors other than bacterial load may limit life span.
Scientists have developed a simple experiment to measure the mechanical properties of thin films, which could impact industries like cosmetics, coatings and nanoelectronics. The new method uses low-power optical microscopy to observe wrinkles in the film, providing insight into material properties.
Researchers found that high-dose chemotherapy and blood stem cell transplantation can result in long-term survival for patients with primary systemic light chain (AL) Amyloidosis. The median survival for all 80 patients was 57 months, with 18 still alive 10+ years after treatment.
Coral cover in Indo-Pacific reefs has declined significantly since the 1960s, with nearly 600 square miles of reef disappearing per year. The rate of decline is twice that of rainforest loss, with coral cover hovering around 2% today.
A new study found that underinsured children are at risk of not getting needed vaccines due to lack of funding and restrictive policies. The authors suggest strategies to enhance immunization benefits for this vulnerable group of children.
A new study using eye-tracking software found that consumers focus on ads based on their goals, such as memorization or learning about a brand. The researchers suggest that understanding these goals is crucial for effective advertising.
Researchers found that suppressing the endothelial nitric oxide synthase (NOS-3) gene led to intracranial aneurysm formation in 33% of study subjects. The study suggests that NOS-3 plays a crucial role in vascular remodeling and may be a marker for increased risk of brain aneurysms.
Recent advancements in remote sensing technologies, such as lidar and high fidelity imaging spectroscopy, enable researchers to study ecological systems at multiple levels. These tools provide essential information for characterizing landscape dynamics and quantifying ecosystem functions related to biogeochemical cycling.
Researchers discover a poorly understood mechanism linking smoking to lung damage, where toxins in cigarette smoke open unpaired hemichannels that lead to rapid cell death. Drugs preventing hemichannel opening offer new ways to prevent cellular damage and potentially treat diseases tied to oxidative stress.
A study published in Archives of Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine found that 3- to 5-year-old children preferred the taste of McDonald's-branded chicken nuggets over identical, unbranded versions. The degree of preference correlated with the number of TVs in their homes and frequency of eating at McDonald's.
The NanoSensor StageGate Accelerator will accelerate the development of innovative nanoscale-enabled products supporting the US Army's transition and applications in aerospace, energy, and transportation. Funding will enable commercialization opportunities and create high-tech jobs in New York State.
A new study predicts that Americans' 401(k) plans will be substantially wealthier in real terms by 2040, even if stock market returns are lower than historical values. The research found that future retirees will likely have more assets due to longer working careers and the shift towards 401(k) plans.
A decision aid for patients with diabetes was developed by Victor Montori and colleagues, enabling them to make informed choices about statin use. The tool created a conversation about medications, allowing patients to weigh the benefits and risks of statins.
Researchers have found a clear link between Alzheimer's disease and glaucoma, with key proteins implicated in both conditions. Novel drugs targeting these proteins may be used to treat glaucoma, opening up new avenues for treatment beyond intraocular pressure control.
A University of Illinois study confirms that investing time and energy in youth activities and taking on a leadership role are key to maximizing their benefits for teens. Participation time is more important than the activity itself, according to the research.
The new UC San Diego model can create life-like milk images based on fat and protein content, and work backwards to determine the composition of a material. This technology has potential applications in food safety, atmospheric science, and diagnostic medicine.
Researchers found that individuals with a high fear of back pain will exhibit unusual movement patterns to prevent exacerbation, which can ultimately weaken their muscles. This study aims to inform the development of new treatments for backaches, a common condition affecting eight out of ten adults.
A study published in Archives of Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine found that preschoolers aged 3-5 preferred the taste of foods and drinks in McDonald's packaging to identical products in unbranded packaging. Children who watched more TV and ate more McDonald's food also showed a stronger preference for branded options.
Researchers found distinct compartments of fat in the face that age at varying rates, challenging previous theories on aging. This breakthrough offers new ways to rejuvenate the face and may hold clues to other diseases such as obesity, diabetes, and cancer.
A University of Pittsburgh study links changes in brain function to recovery in children and adolescents with concussions, using functional MRI scans. The findings confirm the importance of objective neuropsychological testing for safe return-to-play decisions.
A pioneering study has confirmed the relation between allele s in the serotonin transporter gene and exposure to threatening life events in the onset of depression. The research predicts a personalized approach to treating depression by tailoring antidepressant treatment to an individual's genetic configuration and environmental factors.
Researchers at Virginia Commonwealth University discovered that intrauterine devices (IUDs) are acceptable for women at high risk of sexually transmitted infections and pregnancy. The study, published in the American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology, found lower rates of complications and greater acceptability with the Mirena IUS.
A specific gene variant associated with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) may also predict better clinical outcomes and higher IQ in teens. The variant, called the 7-repeat version of the dopamine D4 receptor gene, is linked to thinner brain areas controlling attention but confers advantage only among youth with ADHD.
Eight scientists and one politician have been recognized by ASBMB for their groundbreaking work, advancing the field of biochemistry and molecular biology. The awards will be presented at Experimental Biology 2008 meeting in San Diego.
As glaciers melt, DNA of ancient microorganisms may return to life, potentially altering ecosystems. The duration the DNA remains intact depends on factors such as temperature and oxygen levels.
Adults with ADHD show blunted response to methylphenidate, suggesting dopamine dysfunction may contribute to ADHD symptoms. Reduced dopamine activity is also associated with increased substance abuse in individuals with ADHD.
A team of researchers defined how metal ions bind to amyloid fibrils in the brain, appearing toxic to neurons. The findings suggest that only one way of binding appears toxic, while others may be harmless.
The Hypertension in the Very Elderly Trial (HYVET) found that lowering blood pressure significantly reduces both stroke and mortality in patients aged 80 and over. The trial, which began in 2001, involved 3,845 patients from across the world and stopped early due to significant reductions in overall mortality.
TrES-4 is the largest known exoplanet, about 70% bigger than Jupiter but less massive, making it a planet of extremely low density. It orbits its host star in three and a half days and is very hot due to its close proximity.
Researchers are working to understand regional climate change in North America, using models to predict impacts on agriculture and weather patterns. The Iowa State team has observed increased annual precipitation by about an inch over the past 30 years, which could be beneficial for Midwest agriculture.
A study found a gene variant associated with thinner brain tissue in areas handling attention, but also better clinical outcomes among individuals with ADHD. The 7-repeat form of the dopamine D4 receptor gene was linked to improved symptoms and regained brain thickness in affected individuals.
Researchers at the University of Illinois Chicago College of Pharmacy will conduct four projects to discover new medicines for bioterrorism and other infectious diseases. The Institute for Advanced Pharmaceutical Sciences will also explore natural products for therapeutic potential against anthrax and other pathogens.
A four-year study found that sunn hemp cover crop significantly reduces contamination levels of atrazine and its products in groundwater. The use of sunn hemp can help mitigate the risk of groundwater contamination in Southern Florida, where soil and water conditions indicate potential for leaching from atrazine-based herbicides.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine developed an electrical device that partly restores damaged sense of balance in animals. The multichannel vestibular prosthesis mimics inner ear function and can measure head rotation in all directions, partially regaining vision-stabilizing reflexes in tested chinchillas.
A landmark nationwide study found that 17% of mother-infant pairs were identified as 'not ready' for postpartum discharge. The study identified several factors, including being a first-time mother, history of chronic disease, and inadequate prenatal care, as contributing to unreadiness.
A nationwide study led by UCSF provides evidence that inhaled nitric oxide is safe and effective in preventing chronic lung disease in very premature infants. The study found no adverse effects of inhaled nitric oxide on surfactant production or function, suggesting a potential beneficial effect.
Researchers at Virginia Commonwealth University identified two key proteins, KLF2 and EKLF, that regulate overlapping groups of genes during red blood cell development. The study may lead to future gene therapies for sickle cell anemia and beta-thalassemia.
Researchers explore 'tipping points' in agriculture, highlighting the need to understand regime shifts to sustain ecosystem functions. The symposium identifies potential tipping points related to water and agriculture that could have major global consequences.
Researchers at Albert Einstein College of Medicine measure transcription stages in real-time, revealing inefficient first two stages with only 1% polymerases remaining. Elongation phase takes 517 seconds, while pausing and rapid synthesis may regulate gene expression.
A study of over 10,000 women found that those who were obese prior to pregnancy had a higher risk of giving birth to babies with structural birth defects. The findings suggest a possible mechanism involving alterations in glycemic control, similar to those seen in women with diabetes.
A new study from Medical College of Wisconsin found that nearly two-thirds of Milwaukee County pharmacies struggle to communicate with patients who don't speak English. The analysis reveals a significant barrier to safe prescription use, particularly among vulnerable populations.
A study by University of Minnesota professors Arthur Reynolds and Judy Temple found that minority preschoolers from low-income families who participated in a comprehensive school-based intervention fared better educationally, socially and economically as they moved into young adulthood. They were more likely to finish high school, atte...
Two NIH-approved embryonic stem cell lines were found to generate distinct types of neurons, differing in synapse formation and neurotransmitter usage. The discovery highlights the influence of culture conditions on human ES cells' developmental properties.
A study published in Neurology found that women who drank more than three cups of coffee per day had less decline in memory over time. The benefits increased with age, with coffee drinkers being 30-70% less likely to experience memory decline.
A new genetic analysis suggests that the frog-killing fungus, Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis, may be a greater threat to mountain yellow-legged frogs due to its ability to spread over long distances and persist in the environment through sexual reproduction. This could make it harder to save the frogs from extinction.
Researchers at University of Oregon and US Geological Survey identified past activity clues for the Southern San Andreas Fault, ranking 316 event indicators. They also improved the accuracy of physics-based predictive earthquake simulations, enabling safer building designs.
Researchers found that less than a third of treatment guidelines are based on high-quality evidence, highlighting the need for transparent grading systems. The study concludes that clinicians should be aware of this limitation and apply guideline recommendations appropriately to individual patients.
A Cornell University study found that changing the label on a wine can significantly impact diners' perceptions of the wine and their overall meal experience. Diners who were given wine from California rated it higher in quality, enjoyed more of their meal, and were more likely to return to the restaurant.
A randomized controlled trial found that parents who received customized safety reports scored higher on child safety knowledge and reported better safety practices than those who received generic health reports. The study suggests that computer technology can be an effective tool in promoting child safety.
Researchers analyzed emergency department fever and respiratory complaint data to determine influenza-related morbidity by age. The study found that surveillance using electronic data can provide timely and representative information about circulating influenza viruses, with significant age-specific differences.