A systematic review of 13 observational studies found that diabetes mellitus increases the risk of active tuberculosis by about a factor of three, suggesting a possible role in over 10% of TB cases in India and China.
A recent study suggests that excessive weight-bearing activities in children can affect the mechanical properties of developing bones, leading to a higher risk of degenerative skeletal disorders later in life. Researchers found that young boys who participated in regular farming activities had significantly lower bone-damping ability c...
The Ecological Society of America presented awards to eight ecologists, including Michael Rosenzweig for the Eminent Ecologist Award and Monica Turner for the MacArthur Award. The awards recognize outstanding contributions to ecological research and education.
Researchers found that mitochondrial cholesterol increases resistance to chemotherapy in liver cancer. Statins could potentially sensitise cancer cells against chemotherapy by reducing mitochondrial cholesterol levels.
Three students won the 2008 SIAM Student Paper Prizes for their innovative research papers on elliptic operators, electromagnetic scattering, and strong stability preserving Runge-Kutta methods. The winners presented their work at the 2008 SIAM Annual Meeting in San Diego.
A study published in the Journal of Motor Behavior found that golfers who keep their heads still during putting may actually hinder their game. The research, led by McMaster University's Tim Lee, discovered that even expert golfers move their heads slightly during putts, contrary to conventional wisdom.
Scientists discovered that HIV depletes functional B cells, which produce antibodies. The fatigued B cells overexpress the protein FCRL4, dampening their response to infection.
Older adults with severe hip or knee osteoarthritis who undergo joint replacement surgery experience significant improvements in osteoarthritis symptoms, with most patients returning to regular activities within a month. The study's findings support the use of joint replacement as an option for older adults with severe osteoarthritis.
A team of researchers at Washington University in St. Louis has developed polymeric nanoparticles that can slowly release doxorubicin, a chemotherapy drug, over an extended time period. The approach aims to improve the delivery of cancer-killing drugs to pediatric brain tumors without harming healthy cells.
Exhausted B cells hinder HIV-infected individuals' ability to clear the virus from their bodies. Researchers found that these cells produce low-quality antibodies, making it challenging to develop an effective vaccine.
Researchers identify three genetic predictors that gain predictive precision when considered with social influences like family, friends, and school processes. Positive social influences reduce the effect of certain genetic variants on delinquency.
The Society of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging (SNM) has awarded significant grants to support molecular imaging research, providing opportunities for young scientists to pursue cutting-edge research in emerging fields. The awards aim to advance patient care by investing in promising researchers working on vital medical practices.
Researchers at DKFZ have developed a new simulation method to predict the molecular targets that control cell behavior. This breakthrough may lead to new treatments against cancer metastasis by targeting specific genetic changes.
A study by Dartmouth researchers found that people can acquire motor skills through observation as well as practice. The Action Observation Network in the brain was activated equally when participants observed practiced and unpracticed sequences.
Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center predict that global warming will cause a 30% growth in kidney-stone cases by 2050, with an additional 1.6-2.2 million new cases. Dehydration is a major risk factor for kidney stones, and warmer temperatures are expected to exacerbate this effect.
A new study found that kids who believe cigarettes are easily accessible and have friends who smoke are more likely to become regular smokers. The researchers used simple questions to identify high-risk children, highlighting the importance of discussing smoking risks with parents and healthcare professionals.
A Royal Society of Chemistry survey reveals British people take excessively long showers, with women being particularly guilty. Adults in Western Europe typically shower for two to five minutes, but the French and Spanish demonstrate greater restraint in water conservation and concern about washing contaminants into the system.
The American Society of Plastic Surgeons and the American Society of Maxillofacial Surgeons are urging ATV riders to follow safety tips to reduce the incidence of ATV-related injuries. Plastic surgeons treat thousands of patients with severe head trauma, eye injuries, disfiguring lacerations, and facial fractures from ATV accidents eac...
Researchers have been awarded $4 million to develop software for multithreaded supercomputers, enabling faster analysis of complex problems like power grid stability and biological networks. The new machines can handle large, random datasets more efficiently than traditional systems.
Young adults with prehypertension are more likely to develop coronary artery calcium and atherosclerosis later in life. Researchers also found that low-molecular-weight heparin may prevent blood clots after knee arthroscopy, particularly for those undergoing meniscectomy.
A study of two naturally mummified corpses found remnants of Helicobacter pylori bacteria in gastric tissue from North American mummies. The research suggests that H. pylori infection occurred in native populations around 1350AD in the area now known as Mexico.
Forests provide natural filtration and storage systems that process nearly two-thirds of the U.S. water supply. Preserving and managing forests may help sustain water supplies, but forest management is unlikely to increase water yields.
A new study found that out-of-pocket healthcare costs for disabled children in the US vary significantly by state. Families in Georgia and Louisiana face the highest costs, while those in Massachusetts pay the least. The financial burden of caring for a child with disabilities is estimated to be high due to their greater medical needs.
NASA deployed its unmanned Ikhana aircraft to gather information on over 300 wildfires burning in California, providing commanders with location and size data to deploy firefighting assets. The flights use a sophisticated sensor that can detect temperature differences up to 1,000 degrees Fahrenheit.
A study tracking leatherback turtles in the eastern Pacific Ocean has revealed a narrow corridor they consistently follow, potentially leading to fishing suspension and improved management. The turtles' movements are correlated with environmental features and fishing activity, providing new opportunities for conservation efforts.
Exposure to chemical & biological contaminants can cause respiratory & neurologic symptoms, allergies, asthma, and lung cancer. Secondhand smoke & radon are major causes of lung cancer after cigarette smoking.
A study by Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health found that closing a coal-fired power plant in China significantly improved cognitive development and motor skills in exposed children. The research tracked two groups of children born before and after the plant's closure, revealing a direct positive impact on early child...
Researchers found that white patients with two distinct gene variations were more likely to experience remission of symptoms associated with major depression. Pharmacogenetic testing could improve patient outcomes by matching patients with the right drug from the start.
A disturbed cleavage of the Nrg-1 protein is connected with the development of schizophrenia and other psychiatric disorders. This discovery provides a new step forward in improved diagnosis and targeted treatment of the disease.
A new definition for intermediate syndrome (IMS) resulting from organophosphate poisoning has been proposed based on a study of 78 patients. The researchers found that specific changes in nerve transmission occurred before the development of IMS, suggesting that these changes may be an indicator of future poor outcome.
Researchers at the University of Michigan found that bluffing can be a profitable strategy in prediction markets, which can cloud their accuracy. To combat this, the researchers propose penalizing later trades by charging participants to make them.
Researchers found that nuclear stress tests can detect diastolic dysfunction with a high specificity rate, identifying patients at risk of heart failure. The test plots out the heartbeat and measures the left ventricle filling pressure, providing a prognostic value in predicting diastolic dysfunction.
Researchers found abnormally high levels of cytokines in blood of Huntington's disease gene carriers years before symptoms appeared. White blood cells and microglia also showed hyperactivity, suggesting abnormal immune activation could be an early disease hallmark.
Companions accompanying older adults during medical visits can improve patient satisfaction, especially among those in poorer health. The most helpful attributes of their involvement are active communication and interpersonal skills with the physician.
Researchers developed a predictive model using clinical data to identify individuals aged 40 and older who are at high risk of emergency hospital admissions. The model considers various factors such as age, gender, social deprivation, medication use, and previous hospitalizations.
Reduced carbon emissions from tropical deforestation and degradation can be achieved through improved forest management techniques. Studies show that better logging practices can minimize ecological impact by up to 50% and reduce carbon losses by approximately 30%.
Researchers discovered a relationship between long DNA sequences called palindromes and replication delays, which can lead to chromosomal breaks and cancer. Palindromes stall the replication machinery, causing DNA malfunction, and specific proteins may protect the genome from breaking at these sites.
A North Carolina program, Community Care of North Carolina (CCNC), improves quality of care and reduces Medicaid costs by 23% in emergency departments, 25% in outpatient care, and 11% in pharmacy costs. The program also increases asthma control and decreases hospitalization rates for children with asthma.
A new study suggests that undersea volcanic rocks could be used to store huge amounts of carbon dioxide, potentially capturing up to 150 years of U.S. emissions. Scientists have identified a vast basalt formation off the West Coast that could be suitable for carbon sequestration through natural chemical reactions.
A new study has identified a molecular alarm system in which intracellular pathogens send signals to kick the immune response into gear. The findings shed light on how cells recognize and destroy pathogenic bugs living within their walls, potentially providing new targets for vaccine and drug research.
A multi-disciplinary group proposes ten principles to guide the use of racial and ethnic categories in genetic research, minimizing misinterpretation and misuse of human genetic variation. The guidelines recognize that racial and ethnic categories are socio-political constructs that change over time.
Researchers mapped an elaborate maze of magma chambers beneath Iceland's volcanoes, providing insights into the chemical composition of molten rock and gases released during eruptions. The study suggests that Icelandic volcanoes are likely to have explosive eruptions with devastating local and potential global effects.
A study published in Annals of Internal Medicine found that young adults with prehypertension are more likely to develop atherosclerosis later in life. The study suggests that keeping blood pressure below 120/80 mmHg through lifestyle modifications may help prevent progression to hypertension and reduce the risk of heart disease.
Researchers at the University of Florida have successfully reduced the Casimir force by altering the surface of metal plates, which could help mitigate stiction in microelectromechanical devices. The findings could pave the way for further miniaturization and potentially impact various consumer products.
A new study of extinct reptiles called kuehneosaurs shows that these early flyers used extraordinary extensions of their ribs to form large gliding surfaces on the side of the body. The research, published in Palaeontology, found that one species was more suited to parachuting than flying.
Hispanic patients with diabetes are less likely to receive eye exams and are often unaware of the ocular complications of diabetes. The study found that nearly half of those with diabetes for more than a year had never had a dilated eye exam.
A three-year international scientific outreach program has been funded by the Carnegie Corporation of New York through the American Society for Cell Biology (ASCB) to bring modern cell biology concepts to sub-Saharan Africa. The first stage of the program, a 'short course' on protozoan parasites, was held in Morogoro, Tanzania, and wil...
A new study found that mutant testis cells carrying the Apert's syndrome mutation have a selective advantage over non-mutant cells, leading to an exponential increase in sperm from older men containing the mutation. This explains why children born from sperm of older fathers are more likely to inherit genetic disorders.
Dr. Greg Sachs is conducting a two-year pilot project to evaluate the feasibility of incorporating an outpatient palliative care program for patients with dementia into primary care practices. The goal is to provide improved symptom management, enhanced family support, and assistance with difficult decision making.
Researchers found that a higher MMSE score threshold of 27 can more effectively detect dementia in highly educated older adults. This new criterion may facilitate early detection and timely treatment of the disease.
A new vision screening device can detect metabolic stress in the retina, potentially identifying diabetes early. The instrument measures flavoprotein autofluorescence (FA) activity to detect abnormal metabolism and tissue damage.
A meta-analysis of 32,000 participants found that six treatments for smoking cessation were more effective than placebos. The most effective treatment was varenicline, which was about twice as effective as bupropion.
Researchers found that Nucleostemin 3 (NS3) is required in serotonin-producing neurons to regulate body size. NS3 disruption leads to a 60% reduction in fly body size, highlighting the link between serotonergic and insulin signaling pathways.
Research published in Nature Genetics reveals that marsupials and humans share an identical genetic imprinting mechanism that evolved 150 million years ago. This discovery helps determine how the mechanism works and what can be done to prevent human diseases related to genetic imprinting.
Scientists investigated the effects of long-term biosolids application on dioxin accumulation in soil and uptake by plants. The study found that dioxins were not detected in corn grains but only trace levels were found in corn stover.
A study found that 63% of children's foods made some sort of nutritional claim, including 62% with high sugar levels. Only 11% met the CSPI nutritional standards, and 34% of high-sodium products made health claims.
The Woods Institute has awarded grants to five faculty research teams to tackle global sustainability challenges. The projects include salmon farming in Chile and farmland irrigation in California, with a focus on developing solutions that can be applied beyond their immediate area of interest.
A study found that nearly 23% of patients reported experiencing complications during or after their hospital stay, compared to 11% identified through medical record review. Patient reports can provide additional important information and are particularly useful for events that occur after discharge.
A study on leatherback turtle migration patterns reveals that they respond to strong ocean currents with rapid movements to maintain their southern route. The researchers identified specific high-use areas occupied by the turtles, providing crucial information for conservation efforts.
The Society for Industrial and Applied Mathematics (SIAM) announced the winners of the 2008 Outstanding Paper Prizes, recognizing exceptional papers in applied mathematics published between 2006-2007. The prizes were awarded to three authors who made significant contributions to their respective fields.
Researchers confirm the 'divide and protect' bonding structure in metallic gold nanoclusters, finding stability due to surface-chemical bonds and a filled electron shell. The study reveals distinct electronic properties and potential applications for nanoparticle chemistry.
A recent study found high levels of IL-6 in affected individuals over a decade before nervous system symptoms began to manifest. This discovery challenges current understanding of the physiological basis of Huntington's disease and may lead to new early intervention strategies.
A new study published in Annals of Family Medicine found that optimistic perceptions of cardiovascular risk are associated with a three times lower incidence of death from heart attacks and strokes among men. However, the study did not find a similar association among women.
Researchers argue that current hospital mortality measures are limited and suggest developing new methods based on detailed clinical data to accurately assess provider performance. Investing in more comprehensive measures can help focus on specific conditions and procedures with known connections to controllable elements of care.
The NIMH CNTRICS Initiative aims to improve schizophrenia treatment by defining cognitive processes and neural circuits. Cognitive neuroscience insights are being translated into better treatments for impaired cognition in schizophrenia.
Studies found that patients with Huntington's disease have higher levels of immune-system signaling molecules, called cytokines, in their brain tissue. This suggests that the protein produced by the Huntington's disease genetic mutation is causing an overactive immune response, leading to damage to neurons in the brain.
The National Oceanographic Partnership Program (NOPP) has funded two research projects at the University of Miami Rosenstiel School to study the Atlantic meridional overturning circulation. The three-year projects will focus on understanding the circulation's impact on climate and weather patterns.
A study found that abatacept reduced flare events and improved symptoms in children with juvenile idiopathic arthritis, but its design raised questions about its true effectiveness. The treatment was well-tolerated, but the study's limitations highlighted the need for further research to establish its role in treating this condition.
Researchers are investigating new strategies for targeting the endocannabinoid system, which plays a role in pain relief and treating conditions like obesity and nicotine addiction. These studies aim to develop new drugs that can selectively target cannabinoid receptors without causing psychoactive side effects.
Six-thousand year old Jericho bones excavated by Dr. Kathleen Kenyon will be tested for tuberculosis, leprosy, and malaria to better understand disease development and transmission.
A study found that plant sterols can accumulate in aortic valves, increasing the risk of stenosis. High levels of plant sterols were linked to higher blood concentrations, suggesting a potential health risk.
A study examining anti-clotting therapy following cardioembolic stroke found that warfarin treatment appears to be safe and can begin at any point during hospital stay. In contrast, bridging with full doses of heparin or enoxaparin may carry high risk of intracranial and systemic bleeding.
Researchers at the University of Washington have developed a model for effective physician-patient communication that enhances quality of care while using time wisely. The model focuses on establishing rapport, understanding the patient's perspective, and reaching a mutual agreement on a plan, allowing physicians to be more efficient w...
The Society for Industrial and Applied Mathematics recognized student winners of the SIAM Award in the Mathematical Contest in Modeling, who presented their winning papers at the 2008 SIAM Annual Meeting. The contest challenges teams of undergraduate students to clarify, analyze, and propose solutions to open-ended problems.
Research from the University of Washington reveals that young Asian-American immigrants face higher rates of anxiety and depression due to early stressors. This study challenges traditional measures of socio-economic status, highlighting the importance of subjective social status in predicting mental health outcomes.
Children can start using mental chunking techniques from as early as 14 months old, remembering more items at a time. By grouping familiar objects together and using spatial cues, young children can expand their memory capacity.
A recent study found that people with higher physical fitness levels had larger brains compared to those with lower fitness, suggesting exercise may preserve brain function and reduce cognitive decline in early Alzheimer's disease. The study also revealed no relationship between fitness and brain changes in healthy individuals.
A study found visual impairment associated with increased suicide risk due to its negative effects on health and activities of daily living. Improved treatments for visual impairment and related health issues may help mitigate this risk.