A new study found that ghrelin increases the response to food pictures in brain regions involved in reward and motivation, suggesting a link between pleasure signals and metabolic drives. The findings may have implications for treating obesity and could inform policies aimed at reducing fast food consumption.
Research at Vanderbilt University Medical Center found that genetic variation in the mitochondrial genome is associated with an increased risk of age-related macular degeneration, a leading cause of blindness in Caucasians over 50. This discovery may lead to personalized medicine and preventive treatments.
Bhaskar Rao's research on MIMO systems has enabled high-quality video transmission across wireless channels without increased power consumption or bandwidth usage. His work has also influenced new WiMax standards and is world-renowned in the field of signal processing.
The new ultramicroelecrodes can detect chemicals up to 1000 times more sensitive than conventional sensors, with fast response times 10 times faster than traditional sensors.
Researchers at Joslin Diabetes Center have discovered that subcutaneous fat, typically found in the hips and thighs, can lower insulin levels and enhance insulin sensitivity. This discovery offers a new avenue for finding substances produced by subcutaneous fat that may improve glucose metabolism.
Large brown seaweeds release inorganic iodine when stressed, contributing to cloud formation and altering coastal climate. This process may lead to 'thicker' clouds with reduced rainfall and a moodier coastal skyline.
Researchers at Duke University Medical Center found that blocking the CaMKK2 brain enzyme decreases appetite and promotes weight loss in mice. The study also showed that this enzyme is required for appetite control and protects against obesity-related health issues.
Researchers at Penn State have discovered how a mole develops into melanoma by showing the interaction of two key proteins involved in 60-70 percent of tumors. Targeting these proteins is necessary for effective drugs to treat melanoma, and personalized cancer treatment could be more effective with fewer side effects.
Researchers developed a lab-on-a-chip PCR test that combines sample preparation with PCR on a single chip, reducing analysis time from hours to minutes.
The incidence of group B streptococcus has decreased among infants younger than 7 days, but increased among adults aged 15-64 years and those over 65, according to a recent study. Disease trends following the release of guidelines for prevention near birth have not yet been well studied.
The University of Maryland researchers have developed tiny sensors that use living olfactory cells on microchips to detect explosive materials, biological pathogens, and other substances. These cell-based sensors show promise in improving detection speed and accuracy.
Researchers have elucidated the mechanism of iron uptake system in M. tuberculosis, a promising target for intervention. The study reveals an exporter-importer system that exports siderophores and imports iron-bound forms, providing a crucial foothold to tame this deadly pathogen.
A recent study found that no-till farming can increase soil organic carbon concentrations in the upper layers of some soils. However, the total soil organic carbon pool to a depth of 60 cm is often similar or even lower than plow tillage systems. The study highlights the importance of analyzing the entire soil profile for accurate conc...
A recent study reveals that approximately 2.1% of US youth aged 14-21 exhibit problem gambling behaviors, projecting to around 750,000 young problem gamblers nationwide. The study also found significant correlations between increased gambling involvement and transitioning into adulthood.
Researchers have discovered that Properdin, a protein linked to defence against meningitis, plays a more vital role than previously understood in the body's immune defence system. The study also found that Properdin can aggravate organ damage in certain conditions.
The new center aims to prevent abuse and help victims achieve a life without mistreatment. The funding will support the advancement of strategies for addressing elder abuse and neglect, which affects up to 10% of older Americans annually.
Scientists create microscopic vehicles that can navigate the bloodstream, targeting tumors with high precision. The nanoworms, coated with a tumor-specific molecule, remain in circulation for hours, offering potential for more effective delivery of toxic anti-cancer drugs.
Climate change is predicted to increase flooding in the UK, with periods of high rainfall and river flow patterns lasting several decades. The current perception of flood risk has been lower than in previous centuries, making it difficult to prepare for the increased frequency and intensity of floods.
Tumor cells can be made more sensitive to hyperthermia-enhanced radiation therapy by inhibiting telomerase, a protective enzyme. Researchers at Washington University School of Medicine found that moderately increasing heat activates telomerase in tumor cells.
A large multicenter study found that corticosteroids do not reduce mortality or hospital stays in children with bacterial meningitis. The study analyzed medical records of 2,780 children and showed no significant difference in outcomes between those who received and did not receive corticosteroids.
A recent study in PLOS ONE investigates the loss of seed dispersal interactions on Mauritius and its impact on regeneration. The Janzen-Connell model suggests that seeds need to be dispersed away from adult trees, but many fleshy-fruited plant species lack crucial seed dispersal interactions.
Malagasy mouse lemurs use advertising calls to attract mates of their own species, ignoring those of similar but different species. This unique communication method helps prevent hybridization and ensures genetic purity.
Women at high risk for cardiovascular disease did not experience a reduced rate of cardiovascular events after taking folic acid and vitamin B supplements for seven years. The study found significant lowering of homocysteine levels, but no difference in cardiovascular event rates between the treatment and placebo groups.
Researchers found that teens with asthma dramatically overestimate their ability to control the condition, affecting treatment adherence. A new approach of unplanned planned asthma visits led to improved patient outcomes, including a 30% increase in treatment action plans and 50% reduction in hospitalizations.
A new study reveals that women are more likely to experience atypical symptoms such as nausea and jaw pain during a heart attack, leading to delayed treatment. Women were also less likely to receive life-saving treatments like beta blockers, statins, and angioplasty compared to men.
Researchers at MGH have developed a new laser treatment that targets blood vessels to remove tumors while preserving and restoring vocal quality. Over 25 patients have been treated, with all being cancer-free up to 5 years after treatment.
A study published in JAMA found that corticosteroids do not reduce the risk of death or shorten hospital stays for children with bacterial meningitis. The study included over 2,700 children treated for bacterial meningitis and analyzed their outcomes after receiving or not receiving corticosteroid therapy.
A new study by Rhode Island Hospital and Brown University researchers found that bipolar disorder is being overdiagnosed, with 43.4% of patients not receiving a valid diagnosis. This can lead to unnecessary medication side effects, highlighting the need for standardized diagnostic methods.
In a developing nervous system, peripheral nerve cells compete for NGF availability, with stronger connections surviving while weaker ones die. Target tissues release NGF protein, which changes from a growth cue to a survival factor, ultimately determining cell fate.
Researchers at Duke University have made significant advancements in autonomous robot surgeries, demonstrating the feasibility of robots performing complex procedures under real-time 3-D ultrasound guidance. The technology has the potential to improve patient safety by reducing radiation exposure and enhancing surgeon precision.
A new study reveals that ghrelin hormone enhances the brain's response to food-related cues, making food more attractive. The hormone targets regions involved in reward and motivation, similar to those affected by drug addiction.
Researchers found that transplanted subcutaneous fat into mice visceral cavity showed improved blood sugar and insulin levels, while visceral fat had detrimental effects. The findings suggest fat cells in different depots have intrinsically different properties.
A community-wide study found that nearly 28% of pediatric emergency department visits could have been replaced with telemedicine, freeing up resources and reducing costs. Telemedicine also offers personalized care and cost savings for insurers, who may realize $14 per child per year in savings.
Research shows that tropical species are more vulnerable to climate change due to their narrow temperature range, making them more susceptible to extinction with warming of just a degree or two. This is because they live near their thermal optimum and cannot cope with temperatures beyond that range.
A new study identifies a specific genetic variation in the FGFR2 gene that alters its binding to regulatory proteins, leading to increased expression and an elevated risk of breast cancer. The mutation occurs in non-coding regions of the gene, affecting its regulation rather than protein production.
The American Academy of Neurology recommends botulinum toxin as an effective treatment for conditions such as cervical dystonia, spasticity, and excessive sweating. However, the toxin is not recommended for migraine or chronic tension-type headache treatment.
A new saliva-based HIV test has been developed by an MUHC team, providing rapid detection in approximately 20 minutes. The test uses oral mucosal transudate and has been shown to accurately identify HIV-positive individuals, particularly in vulnerable populations.
A study published in Neurology found that long-term use of ibuprofen and other NSAIDs was associated with a lower risk of Alzheimer's disease. The research analyzed data from over 49,000 veterans and showed that people who used ibuprofen for more than five years were 40% less likely to develop dementia.
Infants in low socio-economic households exposed to TV have limited verbal interactions with their mothers, a new study found. Educational programming can increase interactions when co-viewed by both mother and infant.
Researchers at Thomas Jefferson University discovered that a protective heart failure protein also regulates blood pressure. Lowering this protein's levels in animal models increased blood pressure. The study suggests S100A1 could be a novel therapeutic target for treating hypertension and heart failure.
Tropical species will experience reduced health and population growth rates due to global warming, while high-latitude species may benefit slightly from warmer temperatures. The impacts of global warming on species in the tropics will be more detrimental than those in high latitudes.
A Massachusetts study found that youths living in towns with strong restaurant smoking bans have a lower risk of becoming established smokers. Local regulations influence the transition from experimentation to established smoking, but not experimentation itself.
A new study by the University of Michigan suggests that extra iron for infants who don't need it may delay their cognitive and visual-motor development. The study found that 5% of Chilean infants with high hemoglobin levels at 6 months showed poorer outcomes in IQ, visual-motor integration, and other measures.
Historical records show the evolution of signing and interpreting in court proceedings from 1725 to 19th century, highlighting the role of education and community in shaping British Sign Language. As deaf people gained access to education, their status in courts declined paradoxically.
The American College of Physicians has released a new clinical practice guideline on screening for osteoporosis in men. Osteoporosis is expected to affect nearly 50% more men over the next 15 years due to increasing rates among older adults.
A study published in PLoS Medicine found that high HIV loads cause CD8+ T cell exhaustion, while reducing antigen levels allows these cells to recover their functions. This suggests that immune exhaustion is a consequence of persistent HIV replication rather than its cause.
Researchers from Hasbro Children's Hospital presented studies on differences in presentation and management of pediatric facial lacerations based on insurance status, the effect of bedside ultrasonography on managing cellulitis without obvious abscess, and maternal feeding practices and their impact on child obesity. The findings highl...
Children who experience sudden parental death are three times more likely to develop depression, and both children and their caregivers are at risk of post-traumatic stress disorder. The study highlights the importance of preventive measures and monitoring for mental health issues in families affected by sudden loss.
A recent study found that genetic factors play a significant role in the early initiation of alcohol use among young adolescents, while common environmental factors become more influential once drinking has begun. This new perspective on the causes of adolescent drinking may lead to targeted interventions for parents and families.
Research linked parents' psychiatric disorders to autism in children, revealing a higher rate of schizophrenia and depression among mothers. The study suggests genetic and environmental factors may be shared among related diseases.
Despite having prior private insurance, new SCHIP enrollees suffer from unmet health care needs. A study by the University of Rochester Medical Center found that only 7% of families switch to SCHIP when they have private insurance options available, and those who do face similar unmet needs.
The genome sequence of Podospora anserina shows the fungus has a large set of genes involved in breaking down complex carbon sources, including cellulose and lignin. This discovery may lead to novel regulatory mechanisms during growth and reproduction, with potential applications in biotechnology.
A study found that low-income parents infrequently engage in verbal interactions with their infants while watching TV or videos. The majority of these interactions occur during educational programs, suggesting a potential link between media exposure and child development. However, the study highlights the need for further research to d...
Researchers found evidence that fungi can 'lock' depleted uranium into a mineral form that may be less likely to find its way into plants, animals, or the water supply. Fungal-based approaches should not be neglected in remediation attempts for metal-polluted soils.
Researchers at PARC-MGH found that chronic viral replication leads to exhaustion of HIV-specific T cells. The study suggests that understanding the nature of CTL responses is crucial for designing effective vaccines against HIV. Persistent exposure to specific viral protein segments appears to be the key factor in CTL exhaustion.
A program in rural India found that round-the-clock rapid HIV testing in labor wards reduced the risk of mother-to-child transmission. The study demonstrated the feasibility of such a program, which led to reduced morbidity and improved health outcomes for mothers and their children.
A McGill University study has found a significant link between breastfeeding and improved cognitive development in children. The research, which followed 14,000 children for six years, suggests that prolonged and exclusive breastfeeding can improve IQs and academic performance.
The University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute has established a groundbreaking BRCA cancer research program focusing on genetic mutations that significantly increase breast, prostate, ovarian, and pancreatic cancer risks. The program aims to identify innovative ways to reduce the risk for high-risk patients.
A study published in Archives of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine found that US teens adopted as infants may be at a greater risk for emotional and behavioral problems. Adoptees were more likely to have contact with a mental health professional and experience disruptive behavior disorders compared to non-adopted adolescents.
Researchers confirm long-term use of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors as effective treatment for depression. A 6-9 month course is recommended after recovery from an episode, especially in those without major comorbidities.