A recent study found that marijuana smoking increases the risk of developing chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) among current cigarette smokers, particularly those over 40. The study also revealed that adding marijuana smoking to cigarette smoking boosts the odds of respiratory symptoms by a significant margin.
A study by University of Cincinnati researcher David Hom found that treating skin wounds with a concentrated topical gel of the patient's own blood platelets resulted in faster healing. The gel showed a statistically significant increased wound closure compared to antibiotic ointment, with some sites closing up to two days earlier.
A new study by the University of Michigan School of Public Health suggests that chain-owned nursing homes face a dilemma between administrative and clinical standards. The research found that excessive emphasis on corporate standardization can hurt patient care, while a balance is needed to optimize resident outcomes. The study's autho...
A study of over 500 women who survived breast cancer found that maintaining vigorous exercise levels significantly improved everyday functioning and reduced symptoms, while those who started exercising after diagnosis saw a positive impact on their quality of life
Researchers have developed a method to discern most genetic activity of a tumor from radiology scans, enabling personalized medicine and non-invasive diagnosis. This approach could revolutionize cancer treatment by providing unique characteristics of each patient's disease.
A study of 149 patients with low-grade gliomas found that temozolomide reduced tumor size in 53% and stabilized it in 37%, while increasing it in 10%. Genetic testing revealed that missing the 1p/19q gene was associated with better treatment outcomes.
Researchers successfully awakened vision cells in blind mice using gene therapy, restoring their visual abilities. The breakthrough has implications for treating common blinding diseases like age-related macular degeneration and diabetic retinopathy.
A study found that men with chronic gum disease were at higher risk for tongue cancer, regardless of smoking status. Periodontitis was significantly associated with an increased risk of tongue cancer in a study of 51 white men.
Researchers have created conditions similar to those inside the Earth to study its inner workings. The study provides new insights into the planet's materials and processes under high pressure, revealing surprising findings about the D'' layer near the core.
A Finnish study found that persistent smokers are at a higher risk of developing depressive symptoms compared to never smokers. In contrast, those who successfully quit smoking tend to experience elevated depressive symptoms in the short term, but this risk declines over time.
Researchers have developed a device that can map magnetic fields at an unprecedented level of precision, detecting even the smallest magnetic fields with great accuracy. The breakthrough uses ultra-cold Bose-Einstein condensates to create a highly sensitive magnetometer.
Research highlights age-related risks for colon cancer patients undergoing surgery; obesity linked to increased polyp prevalence in women. Racial disparities also affect liver cancer treatment, with African Americans less likely to receive surgical therapy.
Researchers found that Bifantis delayed the onset of artificially induced arthritis and resulted in less severe arthritic symptoms. In a second study, Bifantis increased the numbers of immune cells controlling the response to harmful pathogens like Salmonella, limiting inflammation.
Researchers have developed an electronic nose that can detect the presence of asthma by analyzing volatile organic compounds in exhaled breath. The device was able to identify asthmatic patients, but showed less accuracy in determining disease severity.
A study found that soldiers in Iraq contracted multi-drug resistant Acinetobacter infections primarily from environmental contamination of field hospitals. ABC bacteria were also detected on skin samples but not soil, suggesting transmission occurred within healthcare facilities. The authors conclude maintaining infection control is es...
Dr. Steven S. Gross receives the 2007 National Institutes of Health (NIH) Method to Extend Research in Time (MERIT) Award for his work on nitric oxide and its role in vascular complications of diabetes. The $2.5 million grant will support research into potential pharmaceutical targets.
Researchers at Harvard University have developed tiny implantable biocomputers that can precisely scan cellular activity, enabling targeted therapies for diseased cells. The devices, constructed from DNA, RNA, and proteins, could revolutionize medicine by directing treatments to specific cells or tissues.
A Queensland University of Technology research project has received a funding boost for developing technology to purify unclean water supplies. The project aims to revolutionize water purification using novel nanomaterials, demonstrating enhanced efficacy against toxic materials.
A new UCLA study used fMRI to capture detailed pictures of the human brain's response to inhaling pure oxygen. The researchers found that adding carbon dioxide to the gas mix calms the hypothalamus and slows the release of dangerous chemicals, preventing lasting damage.
A nationwide study compared two surgical procedures for urinary stress incontinence, finding the fascial sling procedure significantly more effective than the Burch colposuspension technique. The SISTEr trial involved 655 women and found overall success rates of 47% for the sling procedure versus 38% for the Burch procedure.
Researchers found that odorants in spices and fragrances can trigger serotonin release, leading to gastrointestinal reactions. Sacral nerve stimulation has also shown potential for relieving symptoms of idiopathic constipation, with long-term results indicating improved bowel habits and reduced straining.
Researchers at Bigelow Laboratory have developed a new approach to studying marine microbes, allowing for the analysis of individual unicellular organisms. The method, which uses fluorescence-activated sorting and multi-locus DNA sequencing, enables the study of metabolic capabilities and identities of uncultured microbial taxa.
Research reveals a connection between erectile dysfunction and various serious health conditions, including heart disease and metabolic syndrome. Chronic treatment with sildenafil has been shown to improve endothelial function and oxidative stress, suggesting potential benefits for cardiovascular indications.
A study led by researchers at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine found that muscle-derived stem cell injections strengthened sphincter muscles, improving bladder control and quality of life for women with stress urinary incontinence. The treatment was safe and effective, with long-term improvements observed.
A study of 666 head and neck cancer patients found that 38.1% discontinued work due to cancer and treatment, with fatigue being the leading factor. The study highlights the need for interventions to minimize disability after treatment and provide more information about employment to patients.
Researchers found that older adults with a history of excess weight in midlife or earlier had worse physical performance than those who were normal weight throughout adulthood. Maintaining healthy weight may prevent or delay physical disability as we age.
Computer scientists Steven Rudich and Alexander A. Razborov have made a significant contribution to the P vs. NP problem, a classic question in theoretical computer science that underlies the security of digital systems. Their work has implications for cryptography and electronic commerce.
A new study found that flash-heating breast milk can successfully inactivate HIV, providing a safe alternative for mothers in resource-poor communities. The technique involves heating the milk in a pan of water over a flame and retains most of its nutritional and antimicrobial properties.
A randomized trial found that brand names significantly impact patient treatment decisions, with 36% changing their choice after seeing the true name. The study suggests that decision aids can help patients navigate complex medical decisions and express their personal values.
A research team developed an engineered protein that effectively neutralizes Staphylococcus aureus toxin, preventing symptoms in rabbits and reversing illness after exposure. The protein has potential advantages over antibodies, including smaller size and faster clearance from the body.
A University of Illinois study explores how family members perceive unequal treatment by parents, revealing that siblings who share a common understanding of parental behavior tend to get along better. The research emphasizes the significance of open dialogue and active listening among family members.
Researchers found a 27% increase in GABA levels after one hour of yoga practice. Yoga has shown promise in improving symptoms associated with depression, anxiety, and epilepsy.
Researchers at MIT have discovered a direct linear pathway connecting three molecules involved in synaptic formation, shedding light on the 'pruning' of neural circuits during development. This new pathway's role in development and learning could advance our understanding of devastating developmental neurological disorders.
The TORCH study found that treatment with salmeterol/fluticasone propionate slowed the decline in lung function in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Patients treated with this combination had a slower rate of lung function decline compared to those receiving a placebo over three years.
A study found XDR-TB accounts for 8% of multi-drug-resistant cases in India, compared to 4% in the US. The disease leaves patients virtually untreatable with currently available anti-TB drugs, with a high mortality rate of 42%.
Global carbon dioxide emissions have accelerated at a three percent increase per year in the 2000s, with nearly eight billion tonnes emitted globally in 2005 compared to six billion tonnes in 1995. The growth rate is attributed to increased fossil fuel usage and less efficient burning of these fuels.
A new international study involving over 10,700 people with high blood pressure found that single-tablet combinations of drugs can bring blood pressure under control for up to 80% of US patients. The six-month treatment period saw a near-doubling of the proportion of patients achieving controlled blood pressure.
A meta-analysis suggests that half of blood-thinning drug-related complications can be prevented through improved anticoagulation control. This study highlights the importance of closely monitoring patients taking these medications to avoid serious side effects.
Researchers have discovered that consuming popcorn may lower the risk of diverticulitis by 28% in individuals with diverticular disease. A randomized clinical trial also found rosiglitazone to be an effective treatment for mild-to-moderately active ulcerative colitis.
Scientists have challenged a long-held theory about how HIV depletes white blood cells, instead proposing that the virus slowly adapts to evade the immune system. This new understanding could pave the way for new treatment approaches.
Researchers have made significant breakthroughs in stem cell treatment options, including isolation of human spermatoogonial stem cells and use of autologous adipose-derived stem cells. Studies also show promise for engineered bladder tissue and muscle-derived cell injection in treating stress urinary incontinence.
A new study at Ohio State University found that estrogens increase aggression in mice during short days and decrease it during long days. The researchers identified the mechanisms underlying this interaction, revealing a genomic pathway for estrogen's effects in long-day mice and a different cellular mechanism for short-day mice.
A study published by the American Academy of Neurology found that consuming up to one drink a day can slow the development of dementia in individuals with mild cognitive impairment. The participants, aged 65-84, who consumed wine had an 85% slower rate of progression compared to those who never drank.
Researchers found that traditional nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may counteract the heart-protective effect of hormone replacement therapy in women. Current use of hormone replacement therapy was associated with a significantly lower risk of heart attack than non-use, but NSAID use negated this benefit.
Two novel medications, lubiprostone and linaclotide, have shown significant relief from IBS symptoms and constipation. Hypnotherapy has also been found to be effective in treating bowel issues in children.
A researcher at Arizona State University has created a 3D computational model to simulate crowd behavior in urban settings. The model takes into account individual characteristics and environmental factors, allowing city planners and public safety officials to explore 'what-if' scenarios and test hypotheses.
A large observational study found that taking vitamin supplements does not decrease the risk of lung cancer. The study involved 77,738 men and women aged 50-76 and found no statistically significant relationships between supplements and lung cancer.
The new material has one of the widest photonic band gaps reported, enabling control over light flow in applications like low-threshold lasers and solar cells. The structure's unique fabrication technique allows for complex designs that could also be used as microelectromechanical systems or biological devices.
A study found that breast MRI altered surgical management in 36% of patients, changing the plan from lumpectomy to mastectomy or increasing tissue removal. The change was beneficial in 22 cases, suggesting breast MRI may play a role in staging newly diagnosed breast cancers.
A research team led by UC San Diego radiologist Michael Kuo has developed tools that can translate CT images of cancer tumors into molecular details, revealing a strong connection between imaging features and genetic activity patterns. The study found consistent associations between 75% of genes in liver tumors and imaging traits.
Montana State University historians will investigate the technology, science, and pollution associated with two huge copper mines in Montana and Japan. The study aims to understand how different cultures dealt with these issues and explore moral dilemmas surrounding ecological reality.
National Jewish researchers present groundbreaking findings on asthma perception, air pollution effects, obesity resistance to medication, and salmeterol risk. They also discover household bleach can neutralize allergens, improving patient responses.
An international team of mathematicians has factored a 307-digit number, shattering the previous record. The achievement was made possible by advances in distributed computing and refined algorithms.
Researchers propose a comet impacted the Laurentide Ice Sheet, causing a 1,000-year-long cold spell and fragmenting human populations. The theory suggests that this event led to the extinction of numerous animal genera and ecological shifts.
A four-year study on pediatric osteosarcoma will investigate the effects of genes related to bone growth and lifestyle habits. The research team hopes to find a link between bone growth genes and the development of osteosarcoma in children.
A multicenter trial found that family members who engaged in a longer, more comprehensive conference had lower rates of post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety, and depression. The study provided a 15-page leaflet with information on end-of-life care and bereavement support.
Researchers tested retinol-containing lotions on elderly patients, finding significant reductions in wrinkles, roughness, and overall aging severity. The study also showed increased collagen production, making the skin more resistant to injury and ulcer formation.
A preliminary study suggests that autologous platelet gel can enhance wound closure in acute full-thickness dermal wounds, with statistically increased closure rates compared to controls. The gel is rich in platelets important for blood clotting and appears to promote healing by increasing new tissue appearance.
A Stanford study found that macrophages, known as troublemakers in obesity, can also play a beneficial role in metabolism. The researchers identified a molecular switch that can shift the cells into the more desirable mode, which could help block insulin resistance and type-2 diabetes.
Researchers use archaeology, biochemistry, and ecology to study the behavior and ecology of northern fur seals over 1,500 years. They find evidence of reproductive behavior in prehistoric populations that differs from modern populations.
The study found that CO2 emissions increased at a rate three times faster than in the 1990s, primarily driven by growing energy intensity and population. This trend is concerning, as it suggests a reversal of long-term progress towards greater energy efficiency and reduced carbon intensities.
A study published at Digestive Disease Week found that a lifelong vegetarian diet can reduce the risk of colorectal cancer. Additionally, consuming a fatty soup as an appetizer before dinner may lead to reduced food intake in both lean and obese individuals.
The company has completed enrollment in its pivotal FDA-approved IDE study, the Asthma Intervention Research 2 (AIR2) Trial, which aims to establish the safety and efficacy of the Alair Bronchial Thermoplasty System. The trial has nearly 300 patients enrolled at over 30 medical centers worldwide.
Researchers have successfully transplanted human gut microbes into mice, providing insights into the metabolic system and its effects on fat absorption and digestion. The study found that gut microbes influence bile acid metabolism and fiber breakdown, impacting overall health.
In Italy, general practitioners receive frequent visits from drug sales reps, who provide information that doctors often consider reliable. A national continuing medical education program aims to disseminate independent, unbiased evidence through Clinical Evidence, a compendium of the best available research on treating common conditions.
A researcher at Kansas State University has created a special habitat for the yellow fever mosquito in an effort to understand how viruses disrupt programmed cell death. The goal is to determine if mosquitoes can be made immune to viruses, which could lead to breakthroughs in treating diseases like dengue fever and Alzheimer's.
Researchers at the University of Minnesota have developed a new high-affinity molecule called V-beta that blocks staphylococcal enterotoxin B (SEB), a major cause of toxic shock syndrome, with a rate 2000 times more effective than typical antibody treatment
A new study has shown that lubiprostone can improve symptom relief rates in adults with irritable bowel syndrome with constipation (IBS-C) by nearly twice as much as those receiving placebo, according to the results presented at Digestive Disease Week 2007.
Researchers at the University at Buffalo have discovered a significant association between chronic gum disease and the risk of tongue cancer. The study found that every millimeter of alveolar bone loss increases the risk five-fold, with no effect from other conditions.
Researchers discovered that caspase-14 plays a crucial role in maintaining the skin's balance of moisture and protecting against UVB radiation. The protein helps to regulate the processing of a key protein involved in skin structure, which can explain dehydration.
Researchers found that transcription factors bind to different sites in human and mouse liver cells, suggesting distinct regulatory mechanisms. This discovery could help identify patterns in gene expression and provide guidance for researchers using mice to understand human biology.
Researchers at Kansas State University are developing a new laser-like X-ray source that can capture fast motion in the atomic world. The technology could be used to quickly determine if a suspicious package contains dangerous chemicals.
The clinical trial data show that Perforomist Inhalation Solution provides rapid bronchodilation, improves lung function, and enhances patient quality of life compared to placebo. The treatment also has a favorable safety profile and is well-tolerated.
A study by NIH/NIDDK found that sling surgery was more effective in achieving dryness and quality of life for women with SUI, but had higher side effects. The procedure helped significantly more women achieve stress-specific success compared to the Burch technique.
Researchers assessed the effectiveness of topical retinol lotion in reducing wrinkles and improving skin aging severity. The study found significant reduction in wrinkle formation and increased collagen production, leading to improved appearance and skin resilience.
UPMC has started a study using the VentrAssist LVAD, a mechanical blood pump to assist the heart in pumping blood around the body. The study aims to enroll 30 patients for a multi-center feasibility trial to explore its safety and effectiveness as a bridge to transplantation.
Researchers at VCU Medical Center report nearly all patients with hepatitis C treated successfully have no detectable virus after seven years. The study validates the use of 'cure' to describe successful treatment, offering hope for those affected by the disease.
Researchers reconstructed the species' prehistoric geographical range using techniques from archaeology, biochemistry, and ecology. Prehistoric northern fur seals were year-round residents in California, nursing their young for much longer than modern fur seals.
A FSU engineering professor is developing technologies to generate bone cells in a lab that can be transplanted into human patients. The goal is to replace lost bone mass due to osteoporosis and treat traumatic injuries. Research has shown promising results, but significant hurdles remain before the technology is ready for medical use.
A recent study by the Mailman School of Public Health found a possible link between cigarette use and the rise in childhood asthma cases. Cigarette smoke exposure is thought to contribute to the increasing prevalence of asthma among children, particularly those from low-income backgrounds.