The US health care system ranks last compared to five other nations on quality, access, efficiency, equity, and outcomes. Despite spending more on healthcare than other countries, the US also invests less in health information technology.
A team of researchers analyzed fruit fly behavior and found it to be non-randomly generated by the brain, suggesting a mechanism for free will in animals. This discovery could lead to the development of robots with spontaneous behavior and help combat human disorders related to compromised spontaneity.
Alcohol drinking has been associated with a reduced risk of renal cell cancer. Childhood leukemia and lymphoma survivors face an elevated risk of secondary cancers, while treatment with clodronate did not improve survival for men with localized prostate cancer.
A low-glycemic load diet was found to promote greater weight loss and improvements in HDL cholesterol and triglyceride concentrations among obese individuals with high insulin secretion patterns. However, no significant differences were observed between the two diets for those with normal insulin secretion.
Scientists have long debated the birthplace of the European potato. New genetic information reveals that remnants of early potatoes are of Andean and Chilean origin, with possible hybrids. This finding challenges previous assumptions and has implications for breeding programs.
A study by Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health found that workers with a high body mass index (BMI) are at increased risk of workplace injury. The research suggests that obesity prevention policies and programs in the workplace can also lead to improved injury rates and reduced lost work time.
Michael Weiner, a pioneering brain imaging researcher at San Francisco VA Medical Center, has received the 2006 William S. Middleton Award for his outstanding achievements in biomedical research. The award recognizes his contributions to clinical magnetic resonance imaging and his leadership in nationwide clinical trials.
A single dose of vitamin D can enhance immunity to mycobacteria, the bacteria that cause TB. The supplement is cheap and effective, with a potential impact on preventing reactivation of latent TB.
A new study by Dr. Jo Phoenix reveals that magistrates often disregard Youth Offending Teams' advice and rely on stereotypes when making judgments, placing the responsibility of lawbreaking firmly with young people or their families. The research highlights material and social difficulties experienced by young offenders, but these narr...
Scientists created a mathematical model of bacterial gene transfer rates, taking into account natural subsurface environments. The new model suggests that bacterial transport and colonization are crucial factors in controlling gene spread, potentially impacting bioremediation and antibiotic resistance.
The Peabody Treatment Progress Battery (PTPB) provides ongoing feedback to service providers, enabling mid-course treatment corrections. It assesses process and outcomes of treatment services across multiple domains and perspectives.
A study by U of M researchers found that people often treat percentages as whole numbers, leading to systematic errors in calculation. This results in consumers misjudging discounts and making costly mistakes.
A study found that cigarette smoking is responsible for a quarter of head and neck cancers among individuals who do not drink alcohol. Drinking alcohol was also linked to an increased risk of head and neck cancers, particularly among never-smokers.
Biologists used simple equations to describe the motion of Listeria monocytogenes, reproducing all observed shapes with just two variables. The equations can help identify bacterial mutants and rule out mechanisms driving the motion.
A study found associations between genetic markers on chromosomes 11, 1, 2, 5, 18, 20, and 22 in tumor stroma and clinicopathological features. These findings support a model where genetic changes occur in both stromal and epithelial compartments during tumorigenesis.
Researchers found that recovery rates increased over time, with sheltered bay areas supporting recovery of outer-reef sites. Effective local management practices may aid reef recovery, suggesting a promising sign for other regions.
A study by the American Heart Association found that women are less likely than men to have their LDL cholesterol controlled, with a notable 10% gender gap. The study analyzed data from commercial and Medicare managed care plans and showed equal or better outcomes for women in most dimensions of care, except for cholesterol control.
A recent study has found that the gene p53, which is thought to assist chemotherapy in killing cancer cells, may actually help them thrive. In contrast, patients with normal p53 had only a 30% survival rate after five years. The research suggests that inhibiting p53 in tumors during chemotherapy could improve patients' long-term survival.
A study found that higher dietary intake of omega-3 fatty acids and fish consumption may reduce the risk of advanced age-related macular degeneration. Vitamin D levels were also inversely associated with early stages of the disease, suggesting a potential protective effect.
Researchers found that drought sensitivity is a key factor shaping tropical plant species distribution patterns, with denser plants on wetter sides and fewer on drier ones. This study provides new insights into the importance of water availability in shaping tropical forest ecosystems.
Researchers found that an asexual nematode adapted rapidly to soil contamination, living longer and laying more eggs in polluted conditions. The study highlights the importance of considering various research disciplines for understanding stress responses and developing protection strategies.
A comparative study of US and French policies on electric vehicles reveals the impact of cultural differences on technological innovation. The study shows that despite similar goals, different approaches led to varying outcomes, with the US adopting hybrid cars as an alternative solution.
A study of 314 low-income Indiana residents with heart failure found that pharmacist-led patient-centered care resulted in patients taking their medications 16% more consistently. This approach also reduced emergency room visits and hospitalizations by 19%, saving the healthcare system $14 in costs for every dollar spent.
A study published in Archives of Internal Medicine found that higher consumption of cereal fiber and magnesium may reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes. Participants who consumed more cereal fiber had a 27% lower risk of developing diabetes compared to those who ate less, while those who consumed more magnesium had a 23% lower risk.
Researchers at Woods Hole Research Center are using laser remote sensing (lidar) to study biological diversity and predict bird species richness. Lidar data provides unique measurements of vegetation structure, which is linked to habitat complexity and animal species richness.
A recent RAND Corporation study reveals significant disparities in the quality of care received by women with heart disease and diabetes compared to men. Women were less likely to receive essential treatments for cholesterol management, chronic heart failure, and after a heart attack, despite having similar insurance coverage.
The Deep Phreatic Thermal Explorer (DEPTHX) mission aims to study the physical dimensions, geothermal vents, and potential life in El Zacatón's depths. Using a 2.5-meter-diameter submarine, the team will collect water samples and core samples from the cenote walls.
A Penn study found that older adults with major depression who receive coordinated care with primary physicians and depression care managers have a 45% lower risk of dying within five years compared to those receiving standard care. The study suggests that engaging primary care practices in mental health services is crucial for improvi...
A study by Queensland University of Technology found that droplets carrying viruses can travel large distances in the air, posing a risk to people breathing nearby. The research dispels the myth that viruses only travel a short distance from a person, suggesting that one infected individual can spread the virus simply by exhaling.
Dayeh's work resolves debate on III-V compound semiconducting nanowire growth mechanism, opens door to wider tuning range of temperature and precursor flow rates. His research also reveals unique electronic properties in InAs nanowires grown at different temperatures and orientations.
The DOE JGI has established a gold standard for metagenomic data analysis, enabling accurate classification of sequence fragments into species populations. The method involves simulating metagenomes with known sample genomes, allowing researchers to evaluate the predictive accuracy of existing tools and identify potential pitfalls.
The AGA Institute's Obesity Task Force Report highlights the need for a comprehensive approach to addressing obesity, considering its impact on healthcare budgets and societal practices. The report emphasizes the role of gastroenterology in treating obesity, with novel therapies and policies being developed.
Researchers at K-State are working on a virtual ecological forecasting center in Kansas to study the impact of climate change and environmental changes on ecosystems. The project aims to predict changes in land use, water use, fish populations, and biodiversity.
Researchers found that coordination of prices, clearer codes of conduct, and better understanding of markets can improve quality and competition. National institutes for quality control can also hinder improvement.
Doubling state HCBS expenditures per person over age 65 reduces the risk of nursing home admission among childless seniors. States with lower HCBS funding, such as $35 per person annually, show no significant reduction in nursing home admissions.
Research shows that highly anxious patients with heart disease face nearly double the risk of heart attack or death compared to those with a more serene outlook on life. Patients who started out highly anxious but later found inner calm markedly reduced their risk.
A study by Mailman School of Public Health researchers predicts a significant increase in summer temperatures and ozone levels in NYC by 2050, posing serious health risks. The study uses a unique modeling system to simulate the combined effects of land use, climate change, and air quality on environmental conditions.
Researchers have discovered a way to create engineered minichromosomes in maize and attach genes to those minichromosomes. This breakthrough opens up new avenues for developing crops with multiple resistance traits, as well as producing medically useful proteins and metabolites.
Researchers found that individuals with minimal motor problems at the beginning of the study were nearly five times more likely to be diagnosed with Huntington's disease a year and a half later. Those who performed worse on cognitive tests, such as psychomotor speed, were also at increased risk.
A study published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences found that marine reserves can double the number of young corals, leading to a healthier reef ecosystem. The Bahamas' Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park was used as a testing ground for this innovative approach.
Computer simulations of Hurricane Bonnie's movement show that pockets of warm humid air flowing from the hurricane's eye to its ring of thunderstorms boost energy, increasing storm strength. This 'turbocharger' effect helps hurricanes remain intense despite weakening influences like cooler ocean temperatures and wind shear.
A glucosamine-like supplement called GlcNAc has been found to suppress the damaging autoimmune response seen in multiple sclerosis and type-1 diabetes mellitus. In studies on mice, GlcNAc inhibited the growth and function of abnormal T-cells that incorrectly direct the immune system.
Researchers at Berkeley Lab are part of a $57 million NIH grant project to identify functional elements in the genomes of fruit flies and roundworms. The project aims to shed light on human genome function, with findings potentially aiding cancer research and gene expression control.
The Interactive Autism Network has achieved significant milestones in its first month, registering over 13,000 individuals and families living with autism. Researchers can now access this large pool of family-provided data to supplement existing research studies and explore new hypotheses.
Researchers found that value judgments in framing research questions, identifying problems, and designing studies can lead to better research outcomes. Medical researchers may unconsciously make these value-laden decisions, mistakenly believing they automatically introduce bias.
Prescription data sale to marketing firms is linked to lower death rates among those with depression, a study of 1,226 older adults found. Fibromyalgia patients have a lower pain threshold than healthy individuals, according to a literature review.
A study published in Neurology found that middle-aged individuals with a history of migraine and other headaches are more likely to develop retinopathy, which can lead to severe vision problems or blindness. The association was strongest among those with migraine headaches and aura.
A study by The Miriam Hospital found that web-based intervention programs for inactive adults were just as effective as traditional programs in increasing physical activity. Participants reported approximately 120 minutes of physical activity per week, with a 5.2% improvement in fitness over six months.
Researchers report instances of three female-led infanticidal attacks in wild chimpanzee community, challenging the notion that infanticide is a male-dominated behavior. The findings suggest that deadly aggression may be part of the female behavior repertoire, possibly driven by demographic shifts and increased competition for resources.
A recent Dutch study found that drug users are becoming more cautious when using needles, mainly due to the effective HAART therapy introduced in 1996. This increased caution has led to a significant decrease in HIV and hepatitis C infections among drug users.
The modENCODE project will analyze the genomes of Drosophila melanogaster and Caenorhabditis elegans to identify functional elements, such as regulatory sequences and non-coding genes. These findings will aid in understanding human biology and medicine by providing insights into the conservation of genetic mechanisms across species.
A study by Indiana University School of Medicine found that pediatricians and pathologists cannot agree on half the time whether a child's death from traumatic brain injury should be investigated as potential child abuse. Researchers developed a framework to help compare cases, aiming to improve uniform definitions for future studies.
A pilot study at UCLA found that testosterone gel reduced MS symptoms, slowed brain degeneration, and increased muscle mass in men with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis. The study suggests a possible neuroprotective effect of testosterone treatment in men with MS.
Scientists observed large fluctuations in magnetic and electric field readings around each spacecraft, revealing variations in solar wind protons reflected by the shock. This discovery provides valuable insights into bow shocks around distant celestial objects, which can accelerate particles to extreme energies.
A small study published in Heart reveals that low tar cigarettes, like regular ones, severely impair blood flow through the heart. The researchers found that both groups of smokers showed significant declines in coronary flow velocity reserve after smoking, regardless of cigarette type.
Research highlights the influence of private hospital care on Medicaid patients, flu vaccine shortages, and smoking bans on health outcomes. Smoking bans at home and work significantly improve health status among nonsmokers, while racial diversity in neighborhoods affects pregnant women's decision to smoke.
A new study found that breastfeeding rates among inner-city infants born in Baby-Friendly hospitals were comparable to the overall US population, suggesting positive effects of the initiative. The study identified factors influencing breastfeeding duration, including postpartum support and education.
Researchers found that polyphenols increase fatty acid breakdown and alter glucose usage in fat cells. Quercetin metabolites primarily accumulate in rat lungs, leading to increased fatty acid catabolism.
The Journal of Leadership and Organizational Studies (JLOS) will be published by SAGE, focusing on the intersection of leadership and organizational studies. The journal aims to provide scholarly understanding of effective leadership application in organizational contexts.
The University of Manchester is establishing a £3 million research centre to develop fundamental knowledge and techniques for complex systems with discrete and continuous interactions. Researchers aim to create new prediction methods that can be applied in areas like aircraft control and car safety systems.