A recent study found that 3T MRI is better at detecting and characterizing structural brain abnormalities in patients with focal epilepsy than 1.5T MRI, leading to a better diagnosis and safer treatment options. This improvement was seen in the detection of lesions and accurate characterization of abnormalities.
A groundbreaking study aims to determine the best cocktail of pre- and probiotic supplements for premature infants to prevent necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC), a deadly intestinal disease. Researchers will examine saliva and specimens to find the optimal dose, type, and combination of pre- and probiotics to grow healthy bacteria.
STDs like genital herpes and chlamydia increase the risk of becoming infected with HIV due to inflammation in Langerhans cells. Anti-inflammatory therapies might help prevent HIV transmission by modulating the immune response.
Researchers used aberration-corrected STEM instruments to visualize individual gold atoms on iron oxide surfaces, discovering that bilayer nanoclusters with 10 gold atoms are most active in CO conversion, achieving up to 100% efficiency
Scientists have identified biomarkers in cattle urine that can indicate the presence and progression of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy disease. This discovery may lead to a urine-based test for detecting BSE in live animals, allowing for alternative surveillance procedures and improving breeding stock health.
The Biophysical Society has awarded eight individuals in recognition of their groundbreaking work in biophysics. Robert Stroud and Stephen H. White were recognized for their pioneering research in transmembrane biology and lipid structure, respectively.
A new treatment strategy involving sorafenib could 're-sensitize' tumors, enabling anti-hormonal drugs like aromatase inhibitors to be effective again. Preliminary analysis shows a clinical benefit response in 26 percent of patients taking both sorafenib and anastrozole.
Private Medicare Advantage plans received 12.4% more payment per enrollee in 2008 compared to traditional Medicare fee-for-service program. Extra payments amount to $8.5 billion, exceeding expected fee-for-service costs by 10.6%.
A University of Michigan analysis shows that captive breeding colonies are too small to protect the critically endangered Asian vulture from extinction. Adding wild birds to the captive colonies is crucial but hampered by political and logistical barriers.
Scientists suggest using multiple first-line therapies to treat malaria, cutting death rates and delaying drug resistance. The approach involves distributing different drugs to patients, allowing them to choose from a variety of options.
The atomic structure of mammalian fatty acid synthase has been determined, revealing the details of its catalytic active sites. This breakthrough holds promise for the development of new anti-cancer and obesity treatments by targeting this complex molecular synthetic machine.
A computerized reminder system called ClinfoTracker increased colorectal cancer screening rates by an average of 9 percent, from 41.7% to 66.5%, among 12 primary care practices in Michigan. The greatest improvements occurred at practices that were more technologically savvy and well-adapted.
Research suggests that sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) can increase the risk of contracting HIV by activating Langerhans cells in the skin and vagina. This activation allows the virus to spread more easily, highlighting the potential for anti-inflammatory treatments to prevent HIV transmission.
Nakhiah Goulbourne's NSF CAREER award aims to develop specific models and experiments for heart stent sensors. The goal is to create diagnostic tools that can dynamically monitor the mechanical state of the stented artery, reducing implant failures and improving cardiovascular flow.
Researchers from the University of Granada found that university students following Ramadan experience macronutrient imbalances, leading to increased corporal fat and reduced muscular mass. A new diet plan has been proposed to counterbalance these effects by reducing fat and increasing protein and carbohydrate intake.
Virginia Tech's satellite communications research led to the development of wireless technologies used by companies like Direct TV and Globalstar. The university's work also contributed to advancements in cellular communications, smart antenna technologies, and cognitive radios.
Professor Constantin Chassapis and Hamid Hadim will develop educational and training programs to address energy industry workforce challenges, focusing on nuclear engineering expertise. The program aims to provide practical skills and competencies for future nuclear power engineers and technicians.
Researchers warn of the dangers of unchecked data collection and predictability as technology advances. Social psychologist Saadi Lahlou proposes a new definition of privacy, 'face-keeping,' to empower users to control their online presence.
A team of scientists has developed a new framework to better account for the impact of aerosols on precipitation in climate models. The study suggests that increased aerosol loading may lead to changes in precipitation patterns, affecting regional water resources and global climate systems.
Researchers found that uninsured patients were more likely to receive brand-name drugs after the clinic closed its drug sample closet, leading to increased costs. In contrast, Medicaid patients showed no significant change in generic prescribing despite the availability of free samples.
A new report by scientists suggests that some of the most harmful air pollution in Mexico City originates from industrial sources, including garbage incineration. The study monitored air quality throughout the month of March 2006 and found metal-containing aerosols implicated in adverse health effects.
Scientists at UCLA and the Weizmann Institute of Science recorded individual brain cells as they recalled memories from epilepsy patients' brains. The study confirms that spontaneous memories arise with activity of the same neurons that were recorded as they fired when the memory was first being made.
A study analyzing 300 newspaper articles reveals five main 'gene frames' used by media, from deterministic to evolutionary and playful metaphors. The findings aim to provide a tool for scientists and journalists to better communicate genetics to the public.
Researchers have identified African-Americans as having a greater risk of developing lung cancer from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), with a more than sixfold increased risk. Hay fever was also found to be protective among African-Americans, reducing the risk by 44%.
A three-year study found that parent support and expectations are crucial for middle- and high-school students, with engaging teachers and positive experiences also playing a significant role. The research highlights the importance of tailoring interventions to individual subgroups, as barriers and supports vary between disciplines and...
Researchers developed a new model specifically for African-American populations, refining lung cancer risk prediction with unique results based on increased exposure to risks. The study also expanded the original Spitz model by adding DNA repair capacity measures, improving predictive capability.
The Iowa State University-led NSF Engineering Research Center for Biorenewable Chemicals aims to develop technologies transforming the petroleum-based chemical industry into a biorenewable industry. The center will educate students in multidisciplinary research and global collaborations, advancing the production of biorenewable chemicals.
Morphormics' proprietary technology enables the rapid creation of anatomical roadmaps, improving radiation treatment planning and delivery decisions. The grant will support marketing efforts to bring this UNC-developed technology to patients with prostate cancer worldwide.
Two studies found that carotid angioplasty with stenting is as effective as endarterectomy in the medium term, but carries higher risk of stroke within 30 days. The average annual risk of ipsilateral stroke is 1% or less, regardless of treatment.
Research by Queen Mary University of London scientists found that some bat species' echolocation genes are similar to those of fruit bats, indicating possible independent evolution of the trait. This suggests that echolocation may not be a single evolutionary event but rather an example of convergent evolution.