Recent studies suggest that methylmercury can cause irreversible brain damage in unborn children at previously considered safe levels of exposure. Methylmercury toxicity is well-known, but its effects on the developing nervous system have been underestimated.
Researchers highlight the need for improved efficiency in nanomanufacturing to reduce energy use, emissions, and solid waste. Studies show that nanoscale production can have greater environmental burdens than conventional manufacturing methods.
A study published in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine found that children living in inner city neighborhoods with higher green space experienced lower weight gains compared to those in areas with less greenery. The researchers followed over 3800 children and found no correlation between physical activity levels and BMI changes.
Researchers found that in-hospital statin use is associated with lower mortality in patients with severe sepsis. Additionally, repeated CPR in hospitalized patients has a high mortality rate, while remote teleintensivist care improves ICU and hospital length of stay and mortality rates. Furthermore, female hospital staff members have d...
Researchers at UCL found a 'hate circuit' in the brain that is distinct from those related to love, fear, and aggression. The study reveals that the 'hate circuit' involves structures in the cortex and sub-cortex that are also activated by romantic love, but with a different pattern of activity.
Researchers have discovered a gene-protein combination that renders the lethal bacterium B. pseudomallei harmless, allowing for potential vaccine development. The Toll2 receptor is found to be effective in fending off the bacteria, contrary to previous assumptions about its limited importance.
The National Institutes of Health has awarded Eastman Dental Center's Hyun Koo $1.6 million to continue his work on preventing dental caries by disrupting bacterial biofilm formation. Koo's team has discovered compounds in cranberry and red wine grapes that may reduce the ability of bacteria to form plaque and cause cavities.
New report finds lung cancer media coverage is on the rise, but with a significant decrease in positive coverage and an overemphasis on smoking as a risk factor. Despite this, breast cancer coverage remains more favorable, often featuring personal stories of survivors.
A novel intranasal influenza vaccine has elicited immune responses more than 20 times higher than traditional vaccines, using only half the standard antigen dose. The vaccine's nanoemulsion-based adjuvant system triggers unparalleled mucosal and systemic immunity without pro-inflammatory materials or cytokines.
Researchers found that patients with bipolar disorder have a poorer quality of life than the general population, with factors such as early onset, long-term illness, and tobacco dependence contributing to this effect. In contrast, social support from family can improve quality of life.
The study identified a brain-specific enhancer that drives expression of the Shh gene in the hypothalamus, which regulates cell division of adult stem cells. A mutation in this enhancer sequence was found to cause a significant reduction in Shh activity, leading to holoprosencephaly.
Researchers explore cost-effective methods to identify asthma triggers, seasonal changes in children's asthma, and the effectiveness of swimming, Thai Chi, and nasal sprays as nonpharmacologic interventions. These studies suggest that these alternatives may be more effective and less expensive than traditional treatments.
A new study led by a University of Georgia researcher found that elevated levels of decomposition don't persist after warmer temperatures, contradicting current models. The study reveals that soil microbes decrease in abundance under warm conditions, reducing their respiration rates.
Researchers have found an effective way to deliver gene therapy, targeting both skeletal and cardiac muscle, with the potential to treat Duchenne muscular dystrophy. The therapy could be beneficial for patients by correcting electrocardiogram abnormalities in their hearts.
Researchers identified a peptide sequence that acts like a drug to break apart the MLL molecular switch, potentially slowing or stopping abnormal white blood cell production. The discovery may lead to more effective treatments with fewer side effects for some types of leukemia.
A Kent State University study shows that voters' trust in elections increases when they interact with fresh faces at polling places. The research team found that voters gave higher marks to precincts staffed by new poll workers recruited from local schools and businesses, suggesting a positive impact on voter confidence.
Research shows US military personnel deployed to Iraq have a significantly higher tobacco abuse rate than the national average. Meanwhile, New York residents who smoke are experiencing the effects of the state's tobacco reduction strategies. Additionally, studies link smoking to idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis in men.
A new study presented at CHEST 2008 reveals that propofol, an anti-seizure drug, can be fatal in patients with refractory status epilepticus. The use of propofol for extended periods and high doses increased the risk of severe side effects, including cardiac arrest and death.
The American Society of Plastic Surgeons reports a decline in cosmetic surgical procedures due to the economic downturn, with regions like Northeast and Southeast being most affected. In contrast, minimally invasive procedures like Botox, chemical peels, and hyaluronic fillers have seen an increased demand.
A team of ASU researchers will investigate the ecology, evolution, and genetic mysteries behind malaria and retroviral diseases in humans and nonhuman primates. The studies aim to understand malaria drug resistance and host shifts in parasites.
Researchers reviewed data from lung transplant recipients, finding that arrhythmias developed in 38% of patients within 30 days. Meanwhile, tadalafil proved effective in treating pulmonary hypertension, while insomnia was linked to a lower risk of hypertension in men. Hospitalized CPR patients had high mortality rates, and female hospi...
A recent study found that living in areas with more green space is associated with slower increases in children's body mass over time, regardless of residential density or age. This suggests a long-term positive impact on children's health and weight.
Researchers found that patients receiving donated lungs may develop arrhythmias, including atrial fibrillation, within 30 days of transplantation. Herpes zoster, or shingles, is also a common complication after lung transplantation, but antiviral prophylaxis and treatment with the antibody RATG can be protective.
Darrel Jenerette, a UC Riverside landscape ecologist, investigates the moderating effects of vegetation on urban heat islands in Phoenix, Arizona. The research aims to guide policymakers and planners in bolstering protective measures against heat-related illnesses.
Better designed rodent trials could reduce the cost and time required for cancer drug development. A well-designed rodent study should include an appropriate animal model, correct statistical evaluation of data, proper randomization, and a sufficient number of animals.
Researchers have discovered 3-substituted indolones with neuroprotective properties, offering promising therapeutic agents for neurodegenerative conditions. The compounds are more efficacious than existing treatments and display no cytotoxicity at high doses.
The K-State Macdonald Lab is shifting its focus to ultrafast laser science, exploring its potential for molecular engineering, healthcare and energy innovations. Researchers are working to develop optimal laser characteristics to control reactions within molecules.
A novel topical treatment for cold sores has demonstrated equivalent efficacy to oral systemic drugs without safety or toxicity concerns. The treatment, NB-001, speeds up healing of lesions by 1.3 days and is well-tolerated with no adverse events.
A growing body of research suggests that consuming foods rich in grape polyphenols can help reduce the risk of heart disease. Grape polyphenols have been shown to slow or prevent cell damage caused by oxidation and decrease the oxidation of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol.
A recent study by Temple University researchers found that breastfed children are more likely to develop healthy eating habits, which can help prevent obesity later in life. The study suggests that mothers who bottle-feed may rely too heavily on schedules and ounces instead of their baby's internal cues.
A Dutch researcher developed an early warning system to monitor food consumption and predict potential shortages in rural Uganda. The system highlights the most pressing issues in a given area at a certain moment in time.
Researchers found that a high-fat diet rich in animal fat and poor in omega-3s can exacerbate neurological markers for Alzheimer's disease in mice. The study suggests that diets typical of most industrialized countries may promote the development of Alzheimer's.
A study by Yale University researchers found that elderly patients with multiple medical conditions can make more informed treatment decisions when involved in the process. By prioritizing global outcomes such as length of life and symptom relief, these patients can maximize their desired outcome and minimize potential harm from medica...
A new study by Purdue University researchers found that inbreeding is not responsible for the high incidence of malformation among salamanders. The study of 2,000 adult and juvenile salamanders revealed an 8% rate of deformities, including missing or extra digits, similar to those seen in frog species.
Researchers present new approaches to identifying asthma triggers using in-home photography, while tadalafil shows promise as an adjunct therapy for PAH. In-hospital statin use may lower mortality rates in patients with severe sepsis. Flexible bronchoscopy also proves safe for retrieving aspirated metallic pins from Muslim scarves.
Using NASA satellite data, forecasters can now more accurately predict the timing of two out of three dust events. This capability is crucial for issuing early warnings to populations at risk for dust-related health complications.
A recent study by Dr. Kevin Lachapelle found that 60% of patients over 80 who underwent heart surgery were still alive five years later, with 90% leading active lives. The study challenges the notion that age should be a barrier to open-heart surgery.
The study found that objects closest to patients, such as bed rails and chairs, are most contaminated with staphylococcus, MRSA, and VRE. Copper alloy surfaces have shown a significant reduction in contamination, with a 90-95% decrease compared to controls.
Researchers found that video-assisted thoracic surgery (VATS) for stage I non-small cell lung cancer results in shorter post-operative hospital stays and faster removal of chest tubes compared to traditional open surgery. The study also showed comparable outcomes in terms of surgical success and complication rates.
A study published in Management Science found that distant participants make less accurate judgments when communicating via videoconferencing. Face-to-face meetings allow for more nuanced interpretation of nonverbal cues.
The study uses a systems biology approach to understand carbohydrate structures in cells, leading to new ways to combat inflammatory illnesses. Researchers aim to define novel strategies to perturb the glycome and identify new targets for molecular therapies.
A study found racial and ethnic disparities in patient health-care experiences, with minority patients facing poorer communication, access to care, and care coordination. The study suggests that targeting low-performing practices with high minority patient concentrations can improve patient experience and quality.
Researchers found that in-home photography may be a cost-effective alternative to professional visual home assessments for identifying asthma triggers. Additionally, health-care utilization for children with asthma peaks in the fall, while tadalafil shows promise as an effective therapy for pulmonary hypertension. In-hospital statin us...
Researchers at Scripps Florida have received a $1.5 million grant to develop novel drug targets for amebiasis and giardiasis, two serious water- and food-borne illnesses caused by microscopic parasites. The goal is to create small molecule inhibitors that target specific proteases playing a critical role in parasite lifecycle.
A NJIT professor has developed a novel computational biology method to uncover critical genes responsible for disease development. The research, published in Science Signaling, found that complex diseases such as schizophrenia and cancer are caused by multiple dysfunctional genes.
Researchers found that environmental changes affect amphibian and bird communities rapidly, especially in mountainous regions like the Andes and Himalayas. Amphibians are more sensitive to environmental conditions due to their narrow distributions.
A UC Davis team developed an integrated pest management (IPM) program for almond growers, resulting in a 77% reduction in pesticide use. The program, implemented over six to eight years, used biological, cultural, and reduced-risk alternatives.
A recent study found that statin use is associated with a decline in prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels, suggesting potential benefits for prostate cancer screening and management. The study, which analyzed data from over 1,200 men, showed a median decline of 4.1% in PSA levels after starting statin therapy.
A study by Stanford Cancer Center found that younger patients (15-39 years) with lung cancer exhibit better survival rates and distinct clinical features compared to older patients. The age-adjusted incidence rate of lung cancer in younger patients was significantly lower, and they had a higher proportion of distant disease at diagnosis.
Research found skewed X inactivation in women with BRCA1 gene mutations, associated with a later onset of breast or ovarian cancer. The Impact of Cancer scale was also refined and validated, providing a tool to measure long-term psychosocial impact on cancer survivors.
Nicotine dependence severity has increased by 12% between 1989 and 2006, with the proportion of people classified as highly nicotine dependent rising 32%. More individualized tobacco-dependent treatments are needed to address this increase in addiction severity.
A new model predicts that vaccinating infants with PCV7 can prevent over 357,000 deaths during an influenza pandemic while saving $7 billion in costs. The research also shows routine pneumococcal vaccination can reduce flu-related deaths and costs in a typical season.
Patients who received transfusions with blood stored for 29 days or more were twice as likely to suffer from nosocomial infections. The oldest blood was associated with the most infections, highlighting the need for stricter regulation of blood storage.
A study published in Applied Cognitive Psychology found that conventional photos of smiling, clean children are less effective at aiding the search for missing kids. The researchers suggest showing both 'clean' and 'dirty' pictures to increase recognition chances.
A novel topical therapy, NB-002, has demonstrated a unique approach to healing nail fungus by penetrating skin pores and diffusing through the skin surrounding the entire nail plate. The lotion has shown robust antifungal activity against all organisms causing nail fungus, including Trichophyton rubrum and Candida albicans.
Researchers at Uppsala University have identified a novel cell division mechanism in Sulfolobus acidocaldarius, which may provide insights into human cell biology and evolutionary history. The discovery of three genes that form a sharp band between chromosomes suggests a unique process for cell separation.
An international team is exploring two uncharted regions of Antarctica to study the impact of climate change on global sea levels. The research aims to understand how Earth's climate changed in the past and how future climate change will affect global sea level.
Stanford researchers found a catastrophic decrease in frog and salamander populations in Yellowstone's ponds due to high temperatures and drought. The amphibians need ponds for their young to hatch, but drying water kills eggs that are unsuitable for gestation on land.
Researchers have identified molecular signals causing abnormal changes in the peritoneum, a lining used in peritoneal dialysis. Disrupting these signals may help maintain PD's effectiveness and offer new hope for former PD patients seeking alternative treatments.
A large prospective study found that whole grain consumption lowered heart failure risk, while high-fat dairy and egg intake increased risk. Researchers recommend increasing whole grain intake and reducing high-fat dairy and egg consumption for those at high risk of heart failure.