A two-part series explores chronic cough, defined as a cough lasting longer than eight weeks, affecting 9-33% of the population. The causes are diverse, including airway diseases and cardiovascular conditions, and often go undiagnosed or misdiagnosed as idiopathic.
A study found that aromatase inhibitors (AIs) do not increase the risk of heart problems in women who take them, contrary to previous fears. The research suggests AIs are superior to tamoxifen in reducing breast cancer recurrence and do not significantly worsen cardiovascular health.
A production laboratory founded by the Minnesota Partnership has transferred its first potential therapy, a medication for multiple sclerosis, to a processing plant in Minnesota. The antibody rHIgM22 was developed at Mayo Clinic and has been validated for clinical development.
Human cells have a natural surveillance system called nonsense-mediated mRNA decay (NMD) that detects and eliminates flawed mRNAs, which can cause genetic diseases. The study reveals that repression of protein synthesis during NMD is controlled by the attachment of phosphate groups to human UPF1.
Researchers develop data mining approach using Fuzzy Inference System to analyze river water quality, revealing high pollution levels despite individual parameter analysis. The method combines disparate parameters for a broader understanding of overall quality, potentially improving the lives of people relying on freshwater sources.
Biologists at UC San Diego have found that mouse skin responds to low oxygen levels by regulating EPO production, a hormone that stimulates red blood cell creation. This discovery could revolutionize treatment for anemia and improve endurance athlete performance.
A Rutgers-led team has been awarded $42.5 million to create an Institute of Regenerative Medicine, focusing on regenerative medicine and biomaterials science to treat severe blast trauma. The institute aims to develop new therapies for the repair of battlefield injuries and serve civilian trauma patients.
Theoretical physicists discovered that measuring quantum particles causes interference, leading to a 'relaxed' state analogous to classical chaotic scattering. This finding has implications for quantum computing and information theory.
A newly discovered arenavirus, Chapare virus, has been identified in a fatal hemorrhagic fever case in rural Bolivia. The virus produces clinical hemorrhagic symptoms similar to those associated with other New World arenaviruses, but genetically it is distinct from Junin, Machupo, Guanarito, and Sabia viruses.
Classical medical terminology is confusing and has the potential to cause serious consequences for patients. The use of dead languages in medical terminology can lead to misunderstandings, especially in time-pressured situations with unfamiliarity or linguistic idiosyncrasies.
Donald R. Nielsen, University of California-Davis professor, is recognized for his groundbreaking work in linking theory with field measurements and spatial variability of agricultural soils. He has guided 37 students through graduate degrees and authored over 300 scientific publications.
Researchers found that multislice CT scans (MSCT) combined with D-dimer measurement were as effective as using MSCT alone and venous ultrasonography of the leg in detecting pulmonary embolism. This approach eliminates the need for venous ultrasonography, making it a cost-effective diagnostic strategy.
Researchers have successfully reprogrammed fully mature, differentiated B cells into an embryonic-stem-cell-like state without using eggs. This breakthrough enables the creation of powerful mouse models for autoimmune diseases like multiple sclerosis and type 1 diabetes.
Researchers at Argonne National Laboratory have discovered the structure of plutonium nanoclusters, which are responsible for contaminating groundwater. The clusters, made up of 38 plutonium atoms, can spread contamination further than expected and are difficult to remove.
Researchers have identified and cloned ovarian cancer stem cells, which may be the source of recurrence and resistance to chemotherapy. These stem cells can replicate indefinitely and are highly resistant to conventional treatment.
A study by Children's Hospital of Philadelphia found that in the US and Asia, boys are twice as likely to receive growth hormone treatment for short stature compared to girls. The gender disparity is smaller in Europe and Australia, suggesting cultural biases towards male height in some countries.
Researchers at Duke University have made a major advance in understanding how bacteria divide, paving the way for new antibiotic treatments. They created an artificial system that demonstrates the importance of FtsZ protein in bacterial cell division.
The Gerontological Society of America warns of a looming healthcare crisis as the US population ages. The Institute of Medicine report highlights a shortage of healthcare workers and frontline staff to meet growing demands for care.
A new trial aims to develop a preventive treatment for food allergies using immunotherapy. Researchers will administer increasing doses of peanut or egg protein to desensitize participants' immune systems. The goal is to achieve long-term results and offer relief from the daily fear of food.
Researchers at the SSA meeting will discuss the Rio Grande Rift, a region prone to earthquakes, and its potential connection to ancient volcanic activity. The study also explores seismic hazard estimates for areas like New Madrid and Charleston, which may be underreported.
Two studies found that removing dams in Maine increased property values by reducing a penalty for being near the dam site. The penalty has shrunk since dam removal, and it now affects properties further away from the dam more than those closer to the dam.
Researchers developed a nano-bio-chip device that analyzes saliva to detect proteins associated with heart attack, offering a non-invasive and rapid diagnostic tool. The test can identify current heart attacks and predict future risk, potentially saving lives and preventing damage from cardiac disease.
Researchers found that lung cancer patients over 80 fare equally well after surgery as their younger counterparts, while elevated interleukin-12 levels are associated with poorer survival rates in melanoma patients. DNA methylation decreases with age, potentially contributing to cancer development.
Researchers at the University of Chicago Medical Center have discovered a novel genetic marker, H2A.Z, linked to breast cancer progression and metastasis. Elevated expression of this protein can help physicians make better predictions and treatment choices for patients.
A new study led by UC Berkeley researchers reconstructs the Sudden Oak Death epidemic in California, tracing the pathogen's spread from its introduction to its current evolution. The study finds that nurseries played a key role in spreading the disease and that climate and environmental conditions contribute to the pathogen's mortality.
Researchers at Washington University in St. Louis have determined the importance of mixing in anaerobic digesters, which can produce biogas with manure waste, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and groundwater contamination. The study suggests that increasing mixing intensity is crucial for successful operations.
A recent study by the University of Chicago found that happiness in America increases with age, with older adults reporting higher levels of contentment. The research also discovered that baby boomers are less happy than other generations, while economic fluctuations can impact national happiness levels.
The International Osteoporosis Foundation is urging EU countries to continue seeking government recognition and action to address the growing burden of osteoporosis. Despite progress in management, important care gaps remain, including limited access to bone mineral density machines and evidence-based treatments.
Research shows that TV news audiences are increasingly divided by party affiliation, with significant consequences for democracy and political discourse. Individuals who don't identify strongly with either party are watching less news, while those who do are exposed to tailored content that reinforces their views.
Researchers found that hormone therapy started around menopause onset may have similar benefits as those without risk factors for heart disease. The study suggests that current guidelines may need to be revised for younger women taking hormone therapy.
Research found people with high cholesterol levels between 249-500mg are 1.5 times more likely to develop Alzheimer's disease than those with low cholesterol levels under 198mg. High mid-life cholesterol also increased the risk of vascular dementia regardless of other factors.
A new security system, ARMOR, uses randomization to analyze data on vehicle checkpoints and canine searches, providing a model for police operations. This system aims to enhance safety by minimizing the predictability of potential terrorist attacks.
Western Australian researchers have made a world-first discovery that could help treat life-threatening tumours by reversing angiogenesis. The team found that the gene RGS5 can normalise blood vessels in tumours, allowing for improved immune cell entry and increased survival rates in laboratory tests.
A PhD study by Juan Pedro Reyes found that integrating safety into building design can significantly reduce accidents and costs. The research developed a mathematical model to calculate the sustainability of a building's safety, with promising results.
A mathematical model suggests that intelligent life emerging on other planets is low due to the short life span of Earth. The model, developed by Prof Andrew Watson, estimates the probability of each critical step occurring as 10% or less over four billion years.
A study published in New England Journal of Medicine found that female sex, antenatal corticosteroid treatment, singleton birth, and higher birth weight are equally important as gestational age in determining the care needs of these infants. The research involved nearly 4,500 infants born between 22-25 weeks gestation.
The study demonstrates that AVONEX slows disability progression and reduces relapses in MS patients, improving their overall quality of life. Over 90% of patients experienced an improvement in general health while on treatment, with a significant reduction in disability scores.
Using C. elegans, researchers identified previously unknown proteins key to transporting heme in human blood and discovered genes involved in heme transport, which could lead to new treatments for iron deficiency. The findings suggest that understanding heme absorption is crucial for effective iron delivery in humans.
Researchers identify tropical wetlands as primary methane emitters during glacial times, while forest fires remained constant. The study provides essential information on natural changes in atmospheric methane concentrations prior to human impact.
A computer system called SEMAINE is being developed to recognize human emotions through facial expressions, gaze, and voice, enabling it to adapt its performance and engage in conversation. This project aims to bridge the gap between humans and technology, paving the way for more natural interactions.
Researchers are joining forces to study past earthquakes in the archaeological record, which can provide valuable insights into seismic hazard estimates. A new standardized method, known as the Archeological Quality Factor (AQF), is being proposed to document the certainty of ancient earthquake records.
A University of Chicago study reveals that older adults are more socially engaged in their communities, despite popular stereotypes. Many people in this age group volunteer, attend religious services, and spend time with neighbors on a weekly basis.
A recent meta-analysis of 15 studies involving over 70,000 participants identified six new genes linked to type 2 diabetes. The study, published in Nature Genetics, confirms that insulin-producing cells play a crucial role in the disease's development.
A new NIH study has identified several factors that influence an extremely low birth weight infant's chances for survival and disability. These factors include sex, birthweight, single birth status, and antenatal steroids, which can predict individual outcomes and help guide treatment decisions.
Researchers found a significant link between ALS and formaldehyde exposure, with longer-term exposure increasing the risk. Formaldehyde is used in various household products and has not been previously linked to ALS.
The University of Washington is leading a $6.25M project to develop an electronic Sherlock Holmes system for complex data analysis in the military. The system will integrate various types of sensor data to predict behavior and make decisions, addressing the challenge of handling high degrees of complexity and uncertainty.
Researchers are developing a blood test to detect aggressive breast cancer using a comprehensive tissue collection and advanced proteomics technology. The project aims to identify proteins that indicate aggressive cancer and can be detected in blood, adding to the tools available to fight the disease.
Researchers have developed tests that diagnose, predict or monitor cancer risks without invasive tissue sampling. Oral epithelium can be used as a surrogate tissue to assess molecular damage to the lungs, allowing for convenient biomonitoring methods.
A new study suggests that exceeding recommended physical activity levels and limiting screen time may increase a child's risk of becoming overweight. Caregivers can reduce this risk by encouraging physical activity and limiting screen time.
The study, which examined men's reports of sexual desire and arousal, found that factors like depression, relationships, and scent play a significant role in shaping their experiences. The Kinsey Institute's dual control model suggests that separate systems for excitation and inhibition exist within the central nervous system.
Higher blood levels of interleukin-12 (IL-12) are associated with poor overall survival in Stage III melanoma patients. Age is also a significant risk factor for death, but only when combined with IL-12 levels.
Researchers found that higher creatinine levels in black patients with kidney disease cannot be explained by differences in muscle mass. The study suggests new theories are needed to account for the racial difference, which could help explain why blacks are more affected by progressive chronic kidney disease.
Researchers at Brookhaven National Laboratory found that increasing dopamine D2 receptor levels can reduce cocaine use in rats by 75 percent. The treatment, which involves injecting a harmless virus carrying the D2 receptor gene into the brain, has potential as an addiction therapy.
Researchers found that low vitamin D levels are associated with a higher prevalence of peripheral arterial disease (PAD). Studies suggest that vitamin D may not have a direct protective effect against PAD, but rather may be a marker for other health practices such as healthy diet and physical activity.
The Wildlife Conservation Society's new book, State of the Wild, explores pressing conservation issues including wildlife disease, climate change, and conservation as diplomacy. The book features expert essays from top scientists and thought leaders, providing a comprehensive look at the current trends affecting wildlife worldwide.
A study of 249 patients with breast cancer found that using MRI before surgery can lead to better-adapted treatment, including changing surgical approaches for multiple tumors. The technique reduced the need for mastectomies and improved treatment outcomes in 22 patients.
Studies found obese breast cancer patients have poorer disease-free and overall survival rates compared to non-obese counterparts. Obesity also affects diagnostic characteristics, including stage at diagnosis, surgical delay, and hospital stay.
Researchers develop basic framework for PHR adoption, addressing concerns around privacy and security. A comprehensive PHR can help patients become their own health advocates, access healthcare workers' opinions, and make informed decisions.
OHSU Cancer Institute researchers discovered the gene ASPP2 is necessary in eliminating cancer cells. This protein activates pathways that tell cancer cells to die, protecting them from one of the steps leading to cancer. The study may lead to better therapies and cancer care for patients.
A phase 1 clinical trial showed AME-133v had a potent tumor-halting response in patients with follicular lymphoma. The drug triggered signaling pathways within cells to slow or stop cancer growth, while causing minimal side effects.