A new study finds that depression is a risk factor for Alzheimer's disease, rather than an early sign of its underlying pathology. The research, published in Archives of General Psychiatry, found no increase in depressive symptoms before the clinical diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease.
Researchers have developed a fast method to detect fake Tamiflu using Desorption Electrospray Ionization Mass Spectrometry (DESI-MS), which can analyze samples in under one minute. This new approach is crucial in the fight against counterfeit drugs, with potential applications for large-scale screening during pandemics.
A study found that digestion alters the structure of tea catechins and their anticancer activity. Digestion significantly reduced anticancer activity in colon cancer cells but had little effect on black tea. The findings suggest that better understanding digestion's impact on tea can lead to changes in product formulation and preparation.
Research found that Culex quinquefasciatus mosquitoes harbouring both ace-1R and KdrR genes have lower survival costs than those carrying only one gene, suggesting a possible advantage for multiply resistant organisms in pest management strategies.
Researchers found that increasing production of angiotensin-converting enzyme in macrophages enhances the immune system's ability to sense and respond to tumors. This discovery suggests a strategy for amplifying immune system function in humans, potentially enhancing cancer patients' ability to resist tumor growth.
A new mouse model has granted insight into the genetic and molecular mechanisms underlying acute myeloid leukemia. The study reveals that a specific mutation triggers innate genetic programmes allowing white blood cells to proliferate uncontrollably.
A University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill study found that early child neglect is associated with higher levels of aggressive behavior between ages 4 and 8. The study, which monitored over 1,300 children from birth to age 8, highlights the importance of addressing childhood neglect.
A recent study found that genetic risk factors for common fears, such as situational or blood-injury phobias, decline in importance during childhood and adolescence. However, new genetic influences emerge during early adolescence, late adolescence, and adulthood, suggesting a dynamic relationship between genetics and fear.
A study published in The Lancet found that a father likely contracted bird flu from his infected son, highlighting the risk of person-to-person transmission. The investigation involved testing the father and son for H5N1, as well as close contacts, revealing limited but significant transmission.
Women with poor kidney filtering ability are at increased risk of sudden cardiac death, according to a new study published by the American Heart Association. The research found that those with advanced kidney dysfunction had a 3.16 times higher risk of SCD than women with normal kidney function.
A new study found that uncontrollable stress worsens symptoms of endometriosis in rats by activating inflammatory mechanisms and damaging organs. The study, conducted on seven female rats, showed that stressed animals developed more severe lesions and organ damage than unstressed controls.
Researchers at Helmholtz Munich have identified a novel Connexin-like gene mutation that affects early lens development in mice, causing microphthalmia and cataracts. The study suggests that faulty cell communication between developing lens fibers may lead to the cloudiness of the eye lens.
The American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery (ASCRS) will participate in a study with the US FDA to examine the impact of LASIK on patients' daily lives. The study aims to identify ways to enhance patient care, improve screening and counseling, and better understand quality of life.
Researchers found that rats use exploratory sniffing to discriminate odors quickly, with neural responses confirming minimal processing takes place in the olfactory bulb. The study suggests odorant identity may be encoded by sequence of responses rather than peak activation.
Research highlights the long-term consequences of childhood sleep disorders on mental health, including emotional and behavioral changes. Experts stress the need for better recognition and treatment of sleep disorders in children to prevent future problems.
A team of scientists has developed a computer-controlled system that can drive the evolution of improved RNA enzymes without human input. The system, known as an 'evolution-machine,' uses selection pressure to guide the evolution process, resulting in an enzyme that is 90 times more efficient at using starting ingredients.
A study published in BMC Veterinary Research found that lambs can contract scrapie, a fatal neurodegenerative disease, by consuming milk from infected ewes. The researchers detected the prion protein PrPd in intestinal tissues of both infected and control lambs, suggesting that the infectious agent can be shed and transmitted.
Researchers explore alternative materials for digital signal processing, including fungi, bacteria, and DNA, which can enhance images and compress data without electrical currents. The field holds promise for improved algorithms and applications in disease detection and data storage.
A new study presented at the Experimental Biology Annual Meeting shows that Dermytol produces a significant reduction in malignant melanoma cell growth. The compound has demonstrated potential in reducing damage to skin cells and may be used in anti-aging and sun-protection products.
Researchers found that a common asthma medication can improve smell function in individuals with biochemistry-based hyposmia. The study used 369 participants and showed significant improvements in over 70% of patients, with no correlation between blood levels and treatment efficacy.
Researchers discovered a previously thought non-essential gene linked to salt tolerance in arabidopsis, which may aid in developing plants resistant to high salt levels. The finding clarifies the role of complex-N-glycan and could lead to improved crop yields in salt-affected areas.
The new NIH policy requires all funded research articles to be made freely available in PubMedCentral within 12 months of publication. This move aims to increase public access to scientific literature and promote better use of the scientific literature through libraries like PMC.
Adult male monkeys exposed to cocaine in the womb show altered function of dopamine 3 receptors, linked to increased vulnerability to drug abuse. The study's findings have implications for human cocaine overdose victims with higher D3 receptor numbers.
A new blood test, NuroPro, measures 59 protein biomarkers to distinguish between Parkinson's, Alzheimer's and other neurodegenerative diseases. The test has been welcomed by researchers but larger studies are needed to confirm its effectiveness.
A study found that nearly 1 in 50 US children missed MMR immunization after media coverage of the alleged autism link. Pediatricians' recommendations were a key factor in determining vaccination rates.
A study of 1,000 adults found that childhood maltreatment is associated with increased levels of inflammation and depression in adulthood. Individuals with both conditions were at highest risk for cardiovascular disease. The early recognition of maltreatment history may help address pressing needs for care of depressed individuals.
A Université de Montréal study found that parents' bedtime behavior has a direct impact on children's sleep patterns. Giving children food or drink after they wake can cause bad dreams, short sleep time, and delays in falling back asleep. Staying with children at the beginning of sleep appears protective against these issues.
New data on 3M's Tegaderm CHG shows it significantly suppresses skin flora regrowth, with superior prevention of flora regrowth on prepped skin compared to transparent dressings and BIOPATCH.
Researchers found that caffeine protects mice from developing experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE), a model for human Multiple Sclerosis (MS). Caffeine's ability to block adenosine receptors may be key to preventing immune cell infiltration into the central nervous system.
Researchers discovered that atypical antipsychotic drugs like olanzapine can disrupt energy metabolism in male rats, leading to increased blood sugar levels and abdominal fat storage. The study suggests that these changes may occur earlier than previously thought and could have implications for human health.
Geisinger's Electronic Health Record program improves blood sugar and cholesterol levels, increases vaccination compliance, and boosts tobacco cessation rates. The program also enhances patient engagement through its Internet portal, MyGeisinger.
A University of Minnesota study found that teenagers with a TV in their bedroom are less likely to engage in healthy activities like exercising and eating fruits or vegetables. They also consume more sweetened beverages and fast food, leading to lower grades and reduced family connectedness.
A new study found that female college freshmen who lived on campus consumed significantly more calories and sugar than their off-campus counterparts. However, the on-campus students also engaged in higher levels of physical activity, with an average of 90,000 steps per week compared to 42,000 for off-campus students.
The Global Innovation Imperatives (Gii) project aims to combat global health, environmental and societal issues through chemistry-based solutions. Key focus areas include advancing science breakthroughs and addressing pressing water concerns, such as cleanliness, availability and sustainability.
Preliminary study results show testosterone administration reduces bone turnover, with potential protective effects on existing bone mass. Testosterone replacement therapy may benefit older men with low-to-normal testosterone concentrations.
Research published in PLOS Medicine found that interleukin-6 levels are associated with coronary heart disease, suggesting it could be a target for drug development. Two new methods were also developed to estimate HIV incidence based on changes in cross-sectional prevalence, showing sufficient accuracy for monitoring the epidemic.
Researchers have found two more mutations in the TDP-43 gene that could become candidates for drug targets, providing direct evidence of its role in ALS and FTD. The study also suggests potential implications beyond these diseases.
A study finds that insufficient hydration of the airway surfaces leads to pathologies typical of chronic obstructive lung diseases in humans. This could lead to a new therapeutic strategy for treating asthma and COPD by improving mucus clearance through sodium channel blockers.
Infants who slept less than 12 hours per day had a higher risk of being overweight at age 3 than those who slept 12 hours or more. The study also found that restricting sleep changes hormone levels, stimulating hunger and increasing weight gain.
Researchers have validated genetic aberrations and identified new targets for GBM treatment. A novel regulatory circuit involving INK4 family genes, p18INK4C and p16INK4A, constrains inappropriate glial cell proliferation and enhances tumorigenicity.
Three postdoctoral researchers have been chosen to support innovative research on the Gamma-ray Large Area Telescope (GLAST) mission. The program aims to stimulate new ideas and approaches to enhance the scientific return of GLAST, surveying the high-energy sky with unprecedented sensitivity.
Scientists have identified 'mother cells' that produce dopamine-producing neurons affected by Parkinson's disease. These radial glia-like cells could be used to grow replacement neurons in the lab, potentially leading to new treatments for the disease.
Researchers found that anticipating a positive humorous laughter experience reduces potentially detrimental stress hormones, while increasing beneficial chemicals like beta-endorphins and human growth hormone. The study suggests that seeking out positive experiences can help reduce stress and boost overall well-being.
Researchers successfully transplanted dopamine-producing neurons from reprogrammed skin cells into adult rat brains, reducing behavioral symptoms related to low dopamine levels. The study demonstrates the therapeutic potential of reprogrammed cells in treating Parkinson's disease.
A study by Medical College of Georgia found that occupational therapy using Nintendo Wii can slow disease progression, decrease medication needs, and increase function in Parkinson's patients. The therapy helps participants improve daily activities like dressing, walking, and fine motor skills.
A new study in mice found that moderate and high doses of estrogen replacement therapy increased problems in the kidney and heart. The results suggest that ERT dosage may be an important determinant in a woman's overall health.
A recent study by Children's Hospital of Philadelphia found that children with congenital heart disease are at a higher risk of inattention and hyperactivity. The research, which involved 109 children aged five to 10, showed that nearly half of them required remedial services in school.
The American Chemical Society's president will lead a special symposium on energy research and future challenges. Experts from various fields, including nuclear energy systems, hydrogen economy, and solar energy utilization, will present their findings.
A limited nuclear weapons exchange between Pakistan and India could create a near-global ozone hole, with mid-latitude ozone decreases reaching up to 40 percent. This would have huge effects on human health and ecosystems, with potential rises in cataracts, skin cancer, and damage to plants and animals.
A new drug candidate, TG101348, has been developed to treat a rare class of blood diseases called myeloproliferative disorders (MPD). The drug, which targets the JAK2 protein that causes overproduction of red blood cells, shows promise in halting disease progression and reversing excessive production of red blood cells.
Infants and toddlers who sleep less than 12 hours a day are twice as likely to become overweight by age 3. High levels of television viewing combined with less sleep elevates the risk, especially when children watch TV for two or more hours a day.
A recent study found that maternal exercise during pregnancy has a positive impact on fetal cardiac programming, reducing fetal heart rate variability. The research also revealed lower heart rates among fetuses exposed to maternal exercise compared to non-exercising mothers.
Aeolian Research is a new quarterly journal launching January 2009, covering fundamental studies of wind physics and deposition of sediment. The journal aims to provide a single platform for aeolian process research, bringing together experts from various fields.
A study using MRI scans found that prenatal exposure to these substances can reduce cortical gray matter and total brain volumes. The effects were additive, with more substances leading to greater reductions in brain volume. Health care providers should offer comprehensive care to pregnant women to help reduce psychoactive substance use.
The Cox-Maze procedure has been enhanced to include an additional ablation, known as the box lesion, which improves patient outcomes by reducing atrial flutter and fibrillation. This new technique also leads to shorter hospital stays and lower use of antiarrhythmic drugs.
A recent study found that even light loads of 26 pounds can decrease upper extremity blood flow, contributing to shoulder fatigue. Backpack straps typically compress the axillary vein, causing abnormally high blood pressure and subsequent decreased blood flow in the shoulders and arms.
Scientists at University of Copenhagen develop carbon nanotube transistors that can function as magnetic memories. The discovery demonstrates direct electrical control over a single electron spin, opening doors to new data storage possibilities.
A two-year study in Philadelphia schools found that a multi-faceted nutrition policy reduced the incidence of overweight by 50 percent. The intervention included healthy eating initiatives, social marketing, and family outreach, resulting in a significant reduction in childhood obesity rates.
A recent study found that proteins in alligator blood have potent antimicrobial properties, effective against MRSA and Candida albicans yeast infections. Researchers believe these proteins could be used to develop new treatments for diabetic ulcers, severe burns, and other infections
A recent study published in Nature Medicine found that fetal cells implanted in patients with Parkinson's disease can develop Lewy body pathology, a defining characteristic of the disease. The study suggests that cell replacement strategies for Parkinson's disease may not be effective in the long-term.