The HealthGrades Women's Health in American Hospitals study found that top-performing hospitals have significantly lower maternal complications rates for vaginal births (51% fewer) and C-sections (76% fewer). These top-hospitals also saw improved cardiovascular disease mortality rates, with a 15% overall reduction from 2004 to 2006.
A symposium in the Biological Bulletin highlights the powerful advantages of using gene catalogs to infer biological function in marine animals, including the sea urchin and tubeworm. By comparing their genomes with those of other organisms, researchers can gain new clues about how physiological systems evolved.
A new approach to developing parenting plans after separation when domestic violence is alleged involves assessing risk and identifying appropriate arrangements. The level of potency, pattern, and primary perpetrator of violence are key indicators of the risk of future violence.
Researchers at Thomas Jefferson University have developed a new type of colon cancer vaccine that reduces the spread of disease in mice. The vaccine targets mucosal cells and induces an immune response against cancer, leading to fewer metastases and prolonged survival.
A new Montana State University study utilizes thousands of bird watcher reports and a satellite sensor to analyze biodiversity across the continental United States, Canada, and Alaska. The research team found that MODIS technology provides comprehensive measures of vegetation, allowing for broad-scaled ecological studies.
A new study reveals that governors with public support and institutional authority are most likely to participate in foreign relations. Governors of border states, in particular, are more likely to engage in foreign policy activities related to immigration and border security.
A study found that RFID devices caused 34 out of 123 EMI tests to malfunction, with hazardous incidents including pacemaker stoppages and syringe pump failures. The authors warn that the introduction of RFID in critical care environments requires careful management to prevent such incidents.
A new automated system for measuring brain tissue with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can help physicians accurately diagnose Alzheimer's disease at an earlier stage. The technique, which uses computer software developed by researchers, shows significant promise in reducing processing time from hours to minutes.
A team of Johns Hopkins experts suggests that epigenetic changes occurring over a person's lifetime may explain why disease susceptibility increases with age. They found that methylation levels changed in almost one-third of individuals over an 11-year span, and family members tended to exhibit similar changes.
Researchers have genetically programmed embryonic stem cells to become nerve cells when transplanted into the brain, resulting in tangible therapeutic improvement in mice with stroke. The new nerve cells integrate into the existing network and provide cognitive benefits.
The RAND Corporation study finds that biomass resources and wind power have the greatest potential to contribute towards reaching the 25 x '25 goal, with significant investments needed in renewable energy technology. Meeting this goal would reduce carbon dioxide emissions and lower long-term oil prices.
A study published in JAMA found that home blood pressure monitoring combined with Web-based pharmacist care can significantly improve blood pressure control in patients with uncontrolled hypertension. The treatment resulted in 25% more patients achieving controlled blood pressure compared to usual care.
The Lancet article reports 234 million global surgeries annually, with a significant gap in access to surgical care in low-income countries. The study suggests that surgical safety is now a substantial global public health concern, with the potential for improved maternal and neonatal survival through analogous efforts.
Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center identified four hidden fat compartments in the cheeks, which can be restored using fat or tissue fillers for a more youthful look. Restoring these compartments improves volume loss under the eyes and gives more curve to the upper lip.
Researchers at Rutgers University discovered a protein that suppresses cell division in brain cells, effectively 'putting the brakes' on Alzheimer's disease. The study suggests that when this brake fails, dementia results.
A Stanford study reveals that reviving abandoned agricultural land for biofuel production could ease the global energy crunch without exacerbating food shortages or climate change. The researchers estimate up to 1-1.2 billion acres of fallow cropland globally, with potential for biomass energy conversion.
A new online care program for hypertension has shown promising results, nearly doubling the percentage of patients with controlled blood pressure. The 'e-BP' study used web-based care and at-home blood pressure checks to improve treatment outcomes.
A recent study published in The Lancet found that extended use of rivaroxaban significantly reduces the risk of venous thromboembolism after total hip arthroplasty, compared to short-term enoxaparin plus placebo. This finding has important implications for preventing blood clots in patients undergoing hip surgery.
A network of sensors proposed by Penn State researchers could monitor cars in parking lots, tracking their location and sending alerts if a vehicle is stolen. The system relies on trust among monitored cars to protect against false positives and false alarms.
A study published in the Journal of Applied Biobehavioral Research found that directed thinking increased exercise performance and fitness among sedentary college students. Researchers asked participants to think about actions they could take to improve their cardiovascular fitness, leading to a significant increase in exercise time.
University of Florida researchers have developed a neural implant that can learn and adapt with the brain, enabling devices to improve their performance over time. The system uses goal-setting and rewards to teach rats to control a robotic arm with their thoughts, demonstrating its potential for paralyzed patients and amputees.
A new study from the Monell Chemical Senses Center found that children of mothers who drink to escape tensions are more likely to dislike the smell of beer and other alcoholic beverages. Children's emotional responses to odors can provide insights into their emotional worlds.
A research study found that extreme weather events can alter normal host-pathogen relationships, leading to catastrophic mortality from multiple infectious outbreaks in wildlife. Climate extremes can trigger mass die-offs of livestock and wildlife by creating a perfect storm of infectious diseases.
A recent study published in Social Science Quarterly explores the impact of religious behaviors and beliefs on political participation. Researchers found that generalized, macro religious beliefs have a significant effect on national political participation, while individually experienced micro beliefs have no influence.
Researchers found that LYN kinase activation is associated with imatinib resistance in CML patients, a mechanism not explained by BCR-ABL mutations. Blocking LYN kinase restores imatinib responsiveness and triggers cell death.
Transplanting human umbilical cord blood cells into mouse models with ALS delayed disease symptom progression and increased lifespan. The moderate-strength dose of HUCB cells proved most effective in providing neuroprotection for motor neurons.
A new survey of Floridians reveals a strong consensus on climate change: most believe it's happening now and will have dangerous impacts. The majority also supports policies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, even if it affects their pocketbooks.
Climate change could drastically alter California's plant diversity, with many endemic species facing extinction. The researchers project that some plants will migrate northward and toward the coast, while others may disappear from central California due to changing climate conditions.
A Northwestern University study found that men are more likely to share their creative work online than women, with almost two-thirds of men reporting online sharing compared to half of women. The disparity persists even when controlling for digital literacy and Web know-how, suggesting that internet access is not an equal playing field.
Neglected tropical diseases in the US disproportionately affect poverty-stricken communities, particularly minorities. These chronic infections cause significant disability, impaired child development, and adverse pregnancy outcomes.
The American Society of Plastic Surgeons predicts over 55 million cosmetic surgery procedures will be performed in 2015, a quadruple increase from 2005. Non-surgical procedures are expected to drive growth, with 88% of ASPS Member Surgeon procedures being non-surgical.
A new study suggests that an ultrasound exam of the heel may be able to predict if a woman is at heightened risk for fractures due to osteoporosis. The research found that women who were considered higher risk had a significantly lower bone strength, increasing their fracture risk.
Mechanical engineering Professor Adela Ben-Yakar has developed a laser microscalpel that targets individual cancer cells in 3D without damaging surrounding cells. The device uses femtosecond lasers to sear targeted cells quickly and accurately, potentially revolutionizing surgeries for cancer, epilepsy, and other diseases.
Researchers at University of Pittsburgh's Department of Mathematics will create computer models based on differential equations to predict patient responses to treatment. The models aim to improve therapies for neurological conditions like Parkinson's disease and deep brain stimulation.
A study found that Ritalin works in the prefrontal cortex to enhance cognition and focus, while having limited effects elsewhere. The medication tunes neuron sensitivity to signals, leading to improved cognitive function and attention.
A multi-national survey reveals that cell phone use is perceived differently across cultures and settings. People in Turkey are happy for phone use in class, while Italians are annoyed by taking calls at the theatre. The study highlights the importance of understanding social impact on goodwill when utilizing mobile communications.
Firms in rural areas are less likely to issue equity than urban firms, with rural firms using lower-quality underwriters. This is due to the marginal investor being located far away, creating an information disadvantage for insiders.
Researchers identified CHD5 as a tumor suppressor gene associated with better outcomes in neuroblastoma patients. Intestinal proteins were found to be effective anti-tumor antigens in mice, potentially reducing autoimmune complications.
A study found that drug-releasing stents decreased the need for repeat revascularization procedures by approximately 18% compared to bare-metal stents. The risk of death or heart attack also showed a small decrease, but no significant difference in overall mortality rates.
Two alternative test methods, the bovine corneal opacity and permeability (BCOP) assay and the isolated chicken eye (ICE) assay, have been accepted for ocular safety testing. These non-animal tests can identify substances that may cause permanent or severe eye damage, reducing animal use in this area.
A new mouse model reveals that the B-cell receptor cooperates with MYC oncogene to accelerate lymphoma development. Disruption of B-cell receptor signals can inhibit tumor growth, suggesting potential therapeutic targets.
Researchers have developed a technique to attach light-sensitive organic molecules to metal surfaces, enabling reversible switching between two configurations in response to different wavelengths of light. This technology has potential applications in molecular motors, artificial muscles, and molecular electronics.
Scientists have successfully used quantum dots to deliver gene-silencing tools (siRNA) into cells, achieving 2% protein production compared to 13-51% with existing methods. The new approach is also five-to-ten times less toxic to cells.
A new microfluidic device developed by Georgia Tech engineers can automatically position, image, determine the phenotype of and sort small animals such as Caenorhabditis elegans for genetic studies. The device achieves high accuracy at a rate of several hundred animals per hour, greatly reducing processing time and increasing throughput.
Currently used pain assessment tools may not accurately reflect the pain experience in infants. A study published in PLOS Medicine found that changes in brain activity correlated with clinical pain scores, but were more strongly linked to behavioral components such as facial expression than physiological components like heart rate. The...
Researchers at Purdue University found that raising the speed limit from 65 to 70 on Interstate 65 in Indiana does not increase the probability of fatalities or severe injuries. The study used mathematical equations to calculate accident probabilities based on motor vehicle accident data, showing no significant effect.
Researchers at German Cancer Research Center discovered that tumor cells degrade HIPK2 to prevent programmed cell death. Blocking this degradation may increase effectiveness of radiotherapy or chemotherapy. The study suggests a new approach to cancer treatment by targeting the Siah-1 enzyme.
Overcrowding and understaffing in hospitals exacerbate MRSA control issues, leading to increased hospital stays and bed blocking. Effective infection control measures can help mitigate the problem, but addressing overcrowding and workforce shortages is crucial for improving patient safety and quality of care.
A new study reveals that no-take marine reserves can lead to rapid comebacks of exploited fish species, with coral trout populations increasing by up to 68% in just two years. The findings provide an encouraging message for biodiversity protection and have positive implications for tourism.
Researchers found that subtle neurological abnormalities in disability-free older adults can predict cognitive and functional declines. The study used standardized neurological exams to devise a scale measuring these abnormalities, providing evidence for the value of standard neurological exams in predicting future brain health.
A team of UBC researchers developed a technique to manipulate the number of electrons on ultra-thin layers of material, enabling systematic studies of high-temperature superconductors. The approach has significant implications for future electronics, including quantum computer chips and fuel cells.
Researchers found that general anesthetics activate and sensitize specific receptors on neurons in the peripheral nervous system, increasing post-operative pain. The study suggests that this mechanism may be the reason why patients often experience increased discomfort after waking up from surgery.
A study published in Acta Veterinaria Scandinavica found that pigs fed three times a day gained more weight than those fed nine times, despite the natural feeding behavior of self-feeding and random spacing. The researchers suggest increased competition within groups may be a reason for the better outcome.
Researchers have identified a key role for fish-based fatty acid molecule RvE1 in resolving airway inflammation and promoting its resolution in mice. The study provides insight into the potential therapeutic use of RvE1 in asthma prevention.
A new study reveals that a mother's interaction with her baby during the first year of life can significantly predict challenging behavior in later childhood. The research found that infants who were more predictable and less fussy, as well as those who received greater intellectual stimulation from their mothers, were at lower risk of...
A long-term study of 1,471 patients with ankylosing spondylitis who received repeated intravenous injections of 224Radium found a significantly increased rate of leukaemias, particularly acute myeloid leukaemia, compared to a control group
Researchers have developed a novel gene delivery approach that targets smooth muscle cells in blood vessels, offering a new paradigm for cell-specific gene delivery. The approach uses an electric field to transiently permeabilize plasma membranes and a specific DNA sequence to control nuclear entry.
Scientists estimate that globally up to 4.7 million square kilometers of abandoned lands could be used for sustainable bioenergy production, with a potential yield of nearly half the land area of the United States. The researchers found that biomass from these lands could provide energy equivalent to about 41 exajoules, which would sat...
Participants in a clinical trial reported multiple motivations for continued participation, with 80% citing personal benefit and helping others as key reasons. They also expressed pride in advancing scientific knowledge and believed their contribution was important to society.
Lemur males use scent glands on their bodies to advertise fitness and family relationships, with individual scents reflecting genetic quality. Researchers analyzed chemical components in ringtailed lemur scents using sophisticated machinery.