A qualitative study found critical failures in South Africa's Prevention of Mother to Child Transmission (PMTCT) programme, including inadequate HIV testing and lack of nevirapine administration. The research highlights the need for strengthened HIV testing and a revised antiretroviral drug regimen to improve uptake.
Researchers have created a global consensus on the 20 foremost measures needed to curb humanity's most fatal diseases. The list of Grand Challenges includes prioritizing resource allocation within health systems and mitigating the impact of poverty and urbanization.
Scientists reveal that the adiponectin hormone plays a key role in increasing lifespan by burning fatty acids instead of glucose, reducing free radical damage. Meanwhile, researchers identify a new protein in spider silk, which could revolutionize our understanding of its mechanical properties.
Researchers at the Salk Institute have identified a key signal guiding motor neuron navigation, Magellan, which helps them reach their target destinations. The mutation affects the structure of growing neurons, causing them to lose direction and form abnormal 'kinks' or coils.
A landmark review evaluates six statistical methods to identify factors correlating with species distribution patterns and provides guidelines for their application. This work offers invaluable technical means to account for spatial dependencies in species distributions.
A study published in Genome Biology uncovers a link between microRNA expression and retinal degeneration, potentially leading to new therapies for incurable forms of sight loss. Researchers used mutant mice that model the human eye disease retinitis pigmentosa, finding altered microRNA expression patterns.
A study on lung transplantation for children with cystic fibrosis found no survival advantage for young patients, contradicting previous research. Pediatric pulmonologist Julian Allen calls for more judicious referrals and social support for families making decisions about treatment.
Researchers at Penn State are investigating thermochemical hydrogen production using advanced nuclear energy systems to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and increase energy independence. The three-year, $2.4 million program aims to develop efficient technologies for hydrogen production compatible with nuclear-generated heat sources.
Kalirin-7 identified as key regulator of brain spine development, controlling neurotransmitter-receiving stations and strengthening neuronal connections. Abnormal spine structures linked to neurological disorders, including autism spectrum disorders, schizophrenia, and drug addiction.
Researchers have found eight white dwarf stars with pure carbon atmospheres, challenging existing theories on stellar evolution. The discovery may provide a unique view into the hearts of dying stars, shedding light on their evolutionary sequences.
A team of scientists has discovered that the antidepressant drug mianserin can extend the lifespan of adult roundworms, Caenorhabditis elegans, by about 30 percent. The drug may act by mimicking the effects of caloric restriction, which has been shown to retard the effects of aging in various animals.
The study found that lenalidomide-dexamethasone combination therapy slows multiple myeloma disease progression and improves overall survival for patients. The treatment resulted in a median time to disease progression of 11.1 months compared to 4.7 months in the placebo group.
Researchers have discovered MoSIx nanowires to be a promising alternative to carbon nanotubes for use in high-tech applications such as battery electrodes and field emission displays. The ease of synthesis and dispersion of these materials make them highly suited for commercialization.
Scientists at Stanford University found that connecting wind farms can reduce the variability of wind energy, making it suitable for baseload power. On average, 33% of yearly-averaged wind power from interconnected farms can be used as reliable, baseload electric power.
A team of researchers from Fraunhofer Techologie-Entwicklungsgruppe has developed a measurement device to analyze the electromechanical properties of bucky paper actuators. The study provides insights into the actuation mechanism of carbon nanotubes and suggests future directions for research.
A 390-million-year-old sea scorpion fossil found in Germany shows that ancient arthropods like spiders and insects were much larger than their modern-day equivalents. The fossil claw is over a foot-and-a-half long, indicating these creatures were among the largest extinct arthropods.
A new study reveals that long-term climate change can initiate conflict and lead to population decline. The researchers found a cyclic pattern of turbulent periods when temperatures were low, followed by tranquil ones when temperatures were higher, resulting in increased wars and population declines.
Researchers used FDG PET/CT to monitor early responses and found that combining EGFR-specific antibodies with VEGF-specific antibodies may improve anti-tumor efficacy. The novel approach also shows potential for anticancer therapy by monitoring molecular treatment responses.
Researchers from UCL and EPA discover that brown water color change is indicative of reduced acid rain, leading to more organic matter in rivers. The study's findings suggest that waters are returning to a pre-industrial state, but further research is needed on the implications for freshwaters.
Smoking before or during pregnancy may decrease fertility in female offspring, according to a new mouse study. The study found that exposure to environmental toxins like polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) can reduce the number of follicles in female mice, leading to reduced fertility.
Research shows that genetic variation plays a significant role in detecting sweat odor, with one gene (OR11H7P) linked to sensitivity. Environmental factors also contribute to individual differences in smell acuity.
Researchers at Griffith University develop a technique to measure microscopic distances with unparalleled accuracy, using single photons as a ruler. The team achieves measurement errors less than one ten thousandth of the width of a human hair, paving the way for breakthroughs in medical research and new technologies.
Bioengineers at Yale have created a new method of drug delivery that effectively targets and treats brain tumors by adding a water-soluble polymer to the anti-cancer drug. This approach has the potential to increase treatment distances, potentially preventing recurrence and improving treatment outcomes.
Researchers found that plasma treatment can convert carbon nanotube surfaces from hydrophobic to hydrophilic, allowing for instant wetting and contact angles of less than 10°. This breakthrough could pave the way for carbon nanotube incorporation into various applications.
A study of 60 people with lymphatic filariasis in southern Sri Lanka found that the disease causes significant loss of income, social isolation, and emotional distress due to stigma. The authors call for expanded control programs beyond transmission reduction to provide support for affected households.
Researchers at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital discovered a new signaling molecule IL-35 that prevents immune responses from running amok. The finding could lead to the development of new treatments for cancer, autoimmune diseases, and inflammatory diseases.
A 60,000-year-old submarine landslide produced the longest recorded flow of sand and mud on Earth, spanning 1,500 kilometers. The massive event transported sediment volumes equivalent to 10 times those carried by all Earth's rivers annually.
Researchers sequence genomes of multi-drug resistant and drug-sensitive TB isolates, revealing few genetic differences that contribute to drug resistance. The findings shed light on the genetic factors driving TB drug resistance and lay the groundwork for a rapid diagnostic test.
Acclaimed stem cell researcher Shinya Yamanaka successfully reprograms human adult cells into pluripotent stem cells capable of developing into any cell type. This breakthrough accelerates the pace of stem cell research and holds promise for generating alternative sources of human pluripotent stem cells.
A Stanford study found that using pedometers can increase daily physical activity by 2,000 steps, leading to significant weight loss and improved blood pressure. The study of over 2,700 participants suggests that pedometers are a simple yet effective tool for promoting health behaviors.
A new report from Cornell reveals that people with disabilities are underrepresented in the workforce, with only 38% employed compared to 80% of those without disabilities. Additionally, Americans with disabilities face a higher risk of living in poverty, with 25.4% facing economic hardship.
Researchers discovered that carnivorous pitcher plants employ slimy secretions to capture prey, utilizing viscoelastic properties to ensnare insects. The fluid's unique constituency enables it to remain effective even in heavy rainfall conditions.
Scientists at Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health used MassTag PCR to detect a new human rhinovirus as the cause of severe pediatric respiratory tract infections in Europe. Human rhinoviruses are frequent causes of respiratory illness worldwide, and this discovery confirms earlier findings in New York.
Researchers have discovered a way to transform adult human skin cells into cells resembling embryonic stem cells, which can differentiate into various tissue types. The converted cells display physical and genetic features similar to those found in embryonic stem cells.
A study by Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health found a significant link between asthma and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) among adults. The research suggested that the association is not primarily due to genetic influences, but rather may be related to immune system functioning or common risk factors.
A study published in PLOS ONE found that mice with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) have a compromised blood-spinal cord barrier, leading to vascular leakage and potential mechanisms for motor neuron damage. Researchers hope this finding will lead to the development of new treatments targeting the barrier's repair.
Scientists have discovered a giant fossilized claw from an ancient sea scorpion, indicating that the creature was approximately 2.5 meters long and much taller than the average man. This finding suggests that spiders, insects, crabs, and similar creatures were larger in the past than previously thought.
Researchers found that specific brain regions show similar patterns of activity when viewing ambiguous images, implying these regions contribute to conscious experience. The study's findings may help understand disorders like dyslexia by providing insight into the functional role of motion-perception areas in the brain.
Researchers developed new methods for estimating mortality fractions using vital registration data in Mexico, and a validation strategy for verbal autopsy data combining previous methods in China. These advancements improve health planning and prioritization in low-resource settings.
A recent study found that most college students wish they were thinner, with 90% of women wanting to be within the normal-weight range. However, many overweight individuals also desire a body weight that would keep them overweight, suggesting a disconnect between idealized and healthy weights.
Researchers characterize conductive and field emission properties of single and multi-walled carbon nanotubes, finding structure-dependent conductivity and emission. The findings bring next-gen flat panel TVs and monitors closer to reality.
A survey of large US employers found that few use physician quality data to improve health benefit quality, despite efforts to promote value-based purchasing. Employers reported skepticism about the effectiveness of value-based purchasing strategies.
Researchers at Brookhaven National Laboratory found that the surface of manganite materials has a more disordered orbital order than their bulk counterparts. This 'surface orbital roughness' affects electron transfer and provides fundamental information for future research and development.
The Peking-Yale Joint Center will receive continued and expanded support from Monsanto, enabling graduate student exchanges and plant biology-related programs. The center aims to improve crop production by advancing understanding of plant biology.
A Cornell University study found that trauma-exposed individuals without PTSD or depression exhibit persistent differences in stress response, including lower cortisol levels and prolonged negative moods.
A new study led by Duke Prostate Center researchers found that obese men may be missing cancers because the blood marker used to detect prostate cancer can be diluted in their bodies. The concentration of prostate-specific antigen (PSA) in the blood is lower in obese men due to increased blood volume.
Researchers at UW-Madison have successfully reprogrammed skin cells into embryonic stem cells, potentially resolving the ethical controversy surrounding human embryonic stem cell research. This breakthrough could lead to a shift in government funding policies and pave the way for non-embryonic stem cell research.
Researchers found that bortezomib selectively inhibits melanoma tumor cells by overactivating the cancer-promoting gene c-MYC, leading to increased production of NOXA and promoting cell death. The study suggests a novel treatment strategy for various types of cancer.
Researchers at MIT are developing novel thermoelectric materials that can control temperatures efficiently, leading to substantial energy savings. These materials have already resulted in a consumer product - a simple cooling system for car seats in hot climates.
A new study led by UK scientists aims to reduce China's CO2 emissions from coal use, which are set to double by 2030. The 'Near Zero Emissions Coal' project uses carbon capture and storage technology to achieve up to a 90% reduction in emissions.
Global health experts Laurie Garrett and David Fidler propose stockpiling highly specific influenza vaccines and antiviral medicines in Hong Kong to overcome the virus sharing impasse. The proposal aims to benefit developing countries by ensuring they have access to vaccine, reducing the risk of pandemic influenza.
Researchers at Cornell University have identified over 300 new human genes using a comparative approach to the genome. These newly discovered genes are involved in various biological processes, including motor activity, cell adhesion, and central nervous system development.
Researchers used fMRI scans to study brain activity in subjects with no art criticism knowledge, contrasting Classical and Renaissance sculptures with altered proportions. The presence of the 'golden ratio' activated specific neurons, while beautiful vs. ugly sculptures selectively activated the amygdala and insula, respectively.
A study by Stanford Medicine found that rapid response teams significantly reduce death rates and cardiopulmonary arrest rates in pediatric settings. The teams, composed of existing staff members, assess a child's condition within five minutes after a summons and provide supportive care to prevent deterioration.
A study found that adding a rapid response medical team to a children's hospital led to an 18% decrease in death rates and a 70% decline in cardiac and respiratory arrests. The intervention resulted in the estimated saving of 33 lives.
Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine have discovered that an immune system gene can enhance a vaccine used to study HIV in macaque monkeys, providing greater protection against simian HIV. The study found that the addition of Interleukin-15 boosts the effects of a vaccine derived from the DNA of simian HIV.
Physicians face challenges in managing and identifying obesity, with most lacking skills and knowledge to address the issue. A top researcher highlights the importance of training family physicians to provide optimal care to obese patients.
Researchers are developing three-dimensional photonic crystals that can reflect single colors of light, enabling compact optical semiconductor components. This technology has the potential to replace electrical signals with light-based transmission, leading to faster and more efficient data transfer in telecommunications.
Researchers at Tohoku University found that monitoring total entrance skin radiation dose can accurately determine maximum radiation skin dose during coronary angioplasty. This allows radiologists to avoid skin injury to patients, a major disadvantage of the procedure.
A new Cornell University study found that even small amounts of lead in children's blood are associated with reduced IQ scores. The study examined the effect of lead exposure on cognitive function in children with BLLs below the CDC standard, and found an adverse effect on nonverbal IQ scores.