Researchers found that up to one-third of genes are differentially expressed due to environment, with respiratory genes upregulated in urban populations. The study suggests that environmental factors play a large role in modulating gene expression, and that the same gene can be expressed differently depending on the environment.
A Brazilian study found that urban slums are a source of leptospirosis transmission due to poor sanitation and rodent-borne disease. The study identified households with Leptospira antibodies clustering in squatter areas, highlighting the need for social factors-based prevention strategies alongside improved sanitation.
A randomized controlled trial found that chemotherapy with cisplatin before concurrent chemoradiation did not improve disease-free survival for patients with anal canal cancer. The therapy resulted in a higher rate of colostomy procedures and was associated with severe hematologic toxicity.
A study by OHSU Cancer Institute researcher Tomasz Beer found that a protein called C-reactive protein can predict the survival rate of men with advanced prostate cancer. The discovery could lead to a simple blood test to help patients and doctors understand the disease's progression.
Researchers in the Netherlands used Luminol to detect traces of blood on surfaces in their haemodialysis unit, highlighting infection risks. The results suggest that Luminol can be used as part of a hospital infection control regimen to monitor cleaning and disinfection procedures.
A new NIH study identifies high incidence rates of substance use disorders and major mood and anxiety disorders in the US population. The study found that age is a critical general risk factor for first onset DSM-IV substance use, mood, and anxiety disorders.
A study published in Psychological Science found that perspective-taking improves negotiation outcomes and creates more value for all parties involved. Empathy, on the other hand, can lead to preferential treatments and less successful deals.
A study published in JAMA found that cisplatin is not an effective alternative to standard treatment for anal cancer, with a lower disease-free survival rate and more colostomies. The research suggests that fluorouracil plus mitomycin and radiotherapy remains the best treatment option for patients with anal canal cancer.
Dr. Jane Brotanek, a pediatrician at UT Southwestern Medical Center, has received a two-year grant from the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation to investigate the relationship between infant feeding practices and iron deficiency. Her research aims to identify factors contributing to iron deficiency in high-risk populations.
Research by Gary Brase shows that people prefer simple frequencies and percentages over large numbers when understanding numerical information. Presenting numerical data in multiple formats can help convey important information effectively.
New techniques use optical probes to detect neural activity without labeling cells, while tiny laser arrays can detect chemicals and secure communications. Quantum key distribution and teleportation of quantized states enable secure information exchange.
A new method developed by Murali Krishna and colleagues at the National Institutes of Health uses low-field paramagnetic resonance imaging to image tumors and surrounding organs in mice. This approach has shown promise for determining the best treatment approach for tumors and other diseases, as well as monitoring responses to treatment.
A new treatment combination using a genetically altered herpes virus and chemotherapy drug reduces tumor size in mice with aggressive human sarcoma. The therapy appears to be well-tolerated, but further development is needed before clinical trials can begin.
Researchers in Uganda have discovered a new orthopoxvirus in red colobus monkeys, similar to those causing monkeypox and cowpox. The finding highlights the potential for unknown pathogens to emerge in wildlife and pose risks to human health.
A study by Kaiser Permanente found that Medicare Part D beneficiaries who are unaware of their coverage gap tend to report higher costs and reduced ability to manage their medication needs. In contrast, those with better knowledge of their benefits were more likely to switch to less expensive medications.
Research finds Pin1, previously thought to help with Alzheimer's, actually worsens frontotemporal dementia due to specific tau mutations. This study suggests alternative therapeutic approaches and proper animal models are needed.
A hybrid technique combining dorsal column stimulator and peripheral nerve field stimulation effectively blocks body's pain signals, providing significant relief from chronic back and leg pain. The implantable procedure has shown promising results with patients experiencing 60-100% reduction in pain.
Medical schools from across the US attend Indiana University's Immersion III, a conference focused on enhancing professional culture and promoting compassionate education. The event provides a 'living laboratory' for participating institutions to explore approaches to changing their own cultures.
Planting herbicide-tolerant crop varieties can significantly reduce herbicide losses and concentrations in surface runoff, according to a USDA study. The study found that contact herbicides like glyphosate and glufosinate resulted in lower concentrations of herbicides in water compared to residual herbicides.
Scientists have identified oil-based paint layers in ancient Buddhist murals from the Bamiyan caves, dating back to the mid-7th century A.D. The findings contradict traditional views of oil painting's origins in Europe, suggesting a longer history of use in Asia.
Researchers used laser micro-dissection to study gene expression in the human hypothalamus, a region crucial for stress response and depression development. The study found significant changes in five genes involved in corticotrophin-releasing factor activation, which may lead to new therapeutic strategies.
Regular mammograms significantly decrease the risk of late-stage breast cancer in women 80 and older, with only about one-fifth receiving them. The study found that each mammogram performed was associated with a further reduction in late-stage disease risk.
A UC Irvine study found that phone counseling improved quality of life and immune systems in cervical cancer survivors, with improved anti-tumor immune responses. The 'mind-body' connection plays a crucial role in surviving cancer with a higher quality of life.
The study found that angiographic in-segment late loss was significantly less in the everolimus-releasing stent group compared to the paclitaxel group. The use of everolimus stents resulted in a significant reduction in composite major adverse cardiac events at 9 months and 1 year.
The CSIRO Australia Telescope National Facility will use a high-speed link to collaborate with international researchers on e-VLBI experiments. The technique enables telescopes hundreds of kilometers apart to observe the same region of sky simultaneously, generating high-resolution images of cosmic objects.
A scientific study found that fruit-eating bats ingest mineral-rich water and clay to detoxify secondary plant compounds in fruits. Female bats take up large amounts of these minerals to counteract the detrimental effects on their embryos and juveniles.
Researchers applied data mining to a human resources database to discover patterns that can improve business efficiency and profits. By analyzing skills, qualifications, employment history, and interactions between personnel, businesses can predict natural staff turnover, morale changes, and employee performance.
A FSU study found that adolescents living with half- or stepsiblings have lower grades and more school-related behavioral problems, which do not improve over time. The study suggests that family composition patterns may not be in the best interests of children involved.
A new, simplified economical method of giving rabies vaccine has been shown to stimulate anti-rabies antibodies just as effectively as the current standard vaccine regimen. The 4-site intradermal regimen is cheaper and more practical, with wider safety margins and suitability for use in financial-constrained areas.
A new study assesses the case for mayoral control of urban school systems, finding that a clear mission is crucial but flexibility to address changing societal issues is essential. The research suggests that high-profile success stories are often exceptions rather than the rule, and that appointed boards can repeat past mistakes.
A team of scientists at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory solved a puzzle about how genes are expressed by studying the way DNA is packed in yeast. They found that RNA interference plays a crucial role in transmitting epigenetic information across generations, providing specificity to histone modifications.
Researchers at the University of California, San Diego, have discovered a novel way to prevent cardiac fibrosis by targeting the Epac molecule. By increasing Epac expression, they were able to block the ability of agents to promote fibrosis in cardiac fibroblasts.
A new study confirms that black women have less urinary incontinence than white women, but when they do develop it, the condition tends to be more severe. The study also found that black women experience 'urge incontinence' twice as often as white women.
Researchers found that endurance athletes experienced significant increases in heart size, while strength athletes saw thickening of the left ventricle. The study provides new insights into the effects of exercise on cardiac function, which may benefit heart disease patients in the future.
Two studies found that Medicare Part D implementation led to small but significant decreases in cost-related medication nonadherence and spending less on basic needs, particularly among lower-income beneficiaries. However, knowledge gaps about Part D benefit structures limited beneficiaries' ability to manage medication costs.
A study of 740 pregnant women in the UK found a clear link between mother's diet and infant sex, with higher energy intake around conception associated with an increased likelihood of having a son. Women who consumed more calories, especially from breakfast cereals, were also more likely to have sons.
Researchers at VIB have identified a molecular link between Alzheimer's disease and the formation of amyloid plaques in the brain. The study suggests that microRNAs may play a role in increasing BACE1 protein, a key component of plaques.
A team of researchers led by Dr. Petri Salvén found that circulating endothelial precursor cells, crucial for angiogenesis and cancer growth, do not exist. Instead, ordinary white blood cells near blood vessel walls may have been misinterpreted as ECs in earlier studies.
The IL-11 protein is identified as the primary driver of tumor development in the stomach, promoting chronic inflammation and tumorigenesis by inducing excessive activation of Stat3. Inhibiting this signaling pathway prevents or reduces tumorigenesis in a mouse model of gastric cancer, offering hope for the development of new treatments.
Researchers at UC San Diego School of Medicine found that low levels of adiponectin, a hormone produced by fat cells, are linked to elevated albumin protein in the urine and increased inflammation in the kidney. The study suggests that supplementing with adiponectin or other therapies may help protect kidney function in obese patients.
Scientists have identified a crucial portion of a protein responsible for hereditary cerebral amyloid angiopathy (CAA), a disease linked to stroke and dementia. The study used solid-state nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy to reveal the structure of CAA fibrils, which form plaques in blood vessels in the brain.
The freshwater herring of Lake Tanganyika have a marine invasion origin dating back 25-50 million years. Their DNA analysis suggests that they colonized the lake during its early formation, leading to their unique diversity.
The study found that producers would need to make $120 more per head on naturally finished cattle to match conventionally finished ones, increasing to $400 for organically finished cattle. Researchers emphasize the importance of considering feed prices and potential production challenges when adopting organic or natural methods.
A new non-invasive method to determine tumor oxygen levels and image surrounding tissues has been developed, offering promising insights into tumor development. Researchers suggest that this approach could lead to improved diagnosis and treatment strategies for tumors and other diseases.
Researchers have developed a new method to create diamond-like crystals, which could improve optical communications and other technologies. The technique uses tiny particles suspended on water to form a precisely ordered layer of particles.
A recent study examining the effect of Medicare Part D on financial hardship found that sickest patients are still skipping medications due to cost. Despite improvements in basic necessity cutting, medication adherence remains a concern for chronically ill individuals.
The National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) has outlined a research agenda to combat drug-resistant tuberculosis, a major public health concern. The agenda focuses on developing reliable diagnostics, testing new drugs, and understanding the biology of TB-causing bacteria.
A study by researchers at the University of Toronto found that individuals with a specific enzyme deficiency may be protected from severe and fatal malaria. The enzyme pyruvate kinase plays a crucial role in energy production and its deficiency is linked to protection against malaria infection.
The powerful Ku Band antenna system attached to NASA's GLAST satellite enables high-rate data transmission to Earth through the Tracking and Data Relay Satellites. The antenna system includes a Ku antenna, pointing mechanism, and transmitters, and will play a crucial role in the observatory's scientific experiments.
A new study by NCAR and CSU finds that unusually sunny weather contributed to last summer's record loss of Arctic sea ice. The research suggests that warmth from the Sun will increasingly affect Arctic sea ice loss in the summer.
Research by Amar Cheema found that consumers scrutinize additional fees more closely when buying from low-reputation sellers, leading to decreased willingness to pay. Sellers with poor reputations benefit from offering consolidated prices to attract suspicious buyers.
Scientists at Children's Hospital & Research Center Oakland conclude that vitamin D plays an important role in brain development and function. While the exact effects on behavior remain unclear, evidence suggests a beneficial role for vitamin D in protecting against autoimmune diseases and some forms of cancer.
A breath monitoring device helps prevent the emergence of drug-resistant strains of HIV by tracking medication adherence in high-risk individuals. The device records patients' breath tests and provides real-time feedback to doctors.
Terry McDermott, a Los Angeles Times staff writer, won the 2008 Wistar Institute Science Journalism Award for his four-part investigative study on memory. The judges praised his exhaustive reporting and commended him for bringing to light a scientific problem that has defied explanation for decades.
A study by VBI Professor Brett Tyler and colleagues reveals that the Avr1b virulence protein in Phytophthora sojae suppresses programmed cell death in plants, disabling their immune systems. This finding has significant implications for understanding plant-pathogen interactions and developing effective disease management strategies.
Researchers found that a single chemotherapeutic agent, 5-fluorouracil, can cause delayed degeneration in the central nervous system of mice, leading to extensive myelin pathology. This damage is not self-repairing and worsens over time.
Researchers followed Minneapolis school children from ages 11 to 19 to track the emergence of cardiovascular risk factors. By age 19, boys were at greater cardiovascular risk despite gaining muscle mass and losing fat during puberty.
A new study reveals that cancer survivors in Canada have low levels of physical activity and high prevalence of obesity. The findings suggest that lifestyle interventions to promote physical activity and healthy weight management are necessary among cancer survivors to control their disease.
Researchers at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill have discovered that people with melanoma on their scalp or neck are more likely to die from the disease. The analysis of 51,704 melanoma cases found that survival rates differ depending on where skin cancer first appears.
A new Geisinger-led study finds that hearing repeated stories of trauma from clients causes serious psychological stress in clinical social workers. A positive work environment helps reduce secondary trauma and job burnout.