Researchers at Duke University have developed a new MRI signaling method that can visualize molecular changes inside the body, which may signal health problems such as cancer. This technique uses hyperpolarization to detect signals from molecules besides water, allowing for earlier diagnosis and treatment of various health conditions.
A Mayo Clinic study reveals that 60% of retired National Football League (NFL) linemen suffer from sleep disordered breathing, with an average of 18.1 episodes per hour.
A study published in Physical Therapy found that directing attention to external effects of movement improves postural stability in patients with Parkinson's disease. This strategy may help reduce falls and improve mobility for those affected.
Researchers have found a protein in tick saliva that works as a complement inhibitor, improving the health of rats with mild and severe models of myasthenia gravis. The protein, rEV576, may have therapeutic value in human myasthenia gravis and could offer a new treatment option with reduced side effects.
A new study published in Biological Psychiatry found that modafinil can reduce weight gain associated with olanzapine treatment. The study showed that subjects receiving olanzapine and modafinil experienced less weight gain than those receiving only olanzapine.
The University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center has launched a new graduate program focusing on understanding and attacking cancer metastasis. The program, supported by a highly competitive grant from the University of Texas System, aims to improve basic understanding of cancer spread mechanisms.
A new study published in PLOS Computational Biology found that the most useful information for face recognition comes from eye images, which provide the least 'noisy' result. The study analyzed over 800 male and female face images to understand why our brains prefer a coarse resolution for face recognition.
Removing non-native trout from mountain lakes reverses their impact on aquatic insect populations. Aquatic insect abundance increases quickly after trout removal, but suspension of stocking alone is ineffective in restoring insect numbers.
The Status of the Geoscience Workforce 2009 Report provides comprehensive insights into the geosciences workforce, education, and economic dynamics. The report details demographics by age, race, gender, and industry type, as well as student and research funding statistics.
Researchers at the University of Rhode Island have discovered a biochemical mechanism that explains how protein tyrosine kinases, such as Src and Fibroblast Growth Factor Receptor families, sense and respond to oxidative stress signals. This understanding may help in designing targeted therapies for specific cancers.
Researchers have identified a viral protein, VP16, as the molecular key that prompts herpes simplex virus to exit latency and cause recurrent disease. The study provides a molecular target for designing improved HSV vaccines and treatments, which could also be used in cancer therapy.
Braunschweig Helmholtz researchers found that host genetic factors significantly impact the progression of influenza A virus infections. The study discovered strong differences in disease outcomes among mice with genetically identical immune systems, suggesting a genetic basis for varying responses to the flu virus.
Researchers at Scripps Research Institute have discovered the structure of P-glycoprotein, a protein responsible for cancer cell resistance to chemotherapy. The study provides valuable insights into how P-gp transports substances out of cells and may lead to the design of more effective drugs.
A new study has found that large size and fast bite were the main reasons for the extinction of certain fish 65 million years ago. Today, these same features characterize large predatory fishes that are in decline and at risk of extinction themselves.
Researchers found that 89% of patients treated with catheter-based therapy (CBT) showed significant improvement in neurologic disability and NIHSS score. CBT may be an effective alternative for ischemic stroke patients ineligible for intravenous thrombolysis, with potential benefits including earlier treatment windows.
Researchers found female termite primary queens can produce both sexually and asexually reproducing babies, mostly growing into queen successors with no inbreeding risk. Asexual reproduction allows colonies to grow faster while maintaining genetic diversity.
Researchers found two common SNPs associated with poorer lung function in children, which may alter SOD3 expression levels. This study identifies a genetic target for healthy lung development during childhood, potentially leading to the development of medication to foster optimal lung growth.
A new EU report emphasizes the importance of integrating climate change policies with economic and social issues to achieve effective climate action. The study assesses the degree of climate policy integration in six European countries, revealing significant potential for improvement.
Scientists have created a new low-calorie, low-sugar vegetable juice by fermenting vegetables with lactic acid-producing bacteria. The process significantly removes sugar while retaining nutritional content, making it suitable for diabetics and pre-diabetic individuals.
Patients with moderate to severe COPD show altered breathing and swallowing coordination even during normal eating. The study found that COPD patients swallow more often at the end of exhalation, a pattern that disrupts safe swallowing.
A recent study published in PLOS Pathogens has revealed that a majority of the global population has been infected with three recently discovered human polyomaviruses, including KIV, WU, and MCV. The study, which tested over 2,200 anonymous donor blood samples, found that infection with these viruses occurs early in childhood.
A new study published in Menopause: The Journal of the North American Menopause Society found that transdermal estrogen delivery may not increase the risk of blood clots in postmenopausal women, unlike oral delivery. The study suggests that transdermal HT delivery may be a safer alternative for some women.
Whitehead Institute member Peter Reddien has been awarded an Early Career Scientist position by the Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI), providing him with a six-year funded research program. He will investigate regeneration in planaria flatworms, a project that aligns with HHMI's goals to support innovative and creative science.
Research suggests that aspirin can reduce the risk of polyps forming in the colon or rectum, a precursor to colorectal cancer. Studies have shown mixed results regarding the optimal dose and duration of use, but experts call for more evidence on the effects of aspirin on cancer.
The new technique manipulates parahydrogen to create molecules that are easier to detect in MRI scans, allowing for faster and more accurate diagnoses of various medical conditions. This technology has the potential to replace current imaging technologies using radioactive substances or heavy metals.
A study by Wagner and Oehlmann analyzed mineral waters for estrogenic chemicals, detecting contamination in 60% of samples. Plastic bottle water showed higher levels than glass-bottled water, with more embryos developing in New Zealand mud snails exposed to plastic bottles.
A long-term study found that adults with a history of anorexia nervosa are more likely to experience mental health issues. The research, published in the British Journal of Psychiatry and International Journal of Eating Disorders, also showed improved reproductive outcomes for those who had recovered from anorexia.
Scientists have found nanoparticles in cosmetics and sunscreens can be toxic to microbes, reducing survival rates. A new biosensor has been developed to detect nanoparticles, warning of potential danger to aquatic life.
Researchers found that many Hispanics were misclassified in a 'some other race' category, leading to incorrect projections of racial diversity. The study suggests that Americans may struggle to accurately report their ancestry due to generational memory loss and stigma around interracial relationships.
Researchers at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute have discovered that incorporating treated carbon nanotubes into epoxy composites can significantly improve toughness and crack resistance. The study found a five-fold reduction in crack growth rate when subjected to repetitive stress.
Researchers Harmit Singh Malik and Toshiyasu Taniguchi receive HHMI funding for their innovative work in evolutionary biology and cancer genetics. Malik studies genetic conflicts in cells, while Taniguchi investigates DNA repair pathways to combat drug resistance.
Research suggests taking public transit can help individuals meet daily physical activity requirements by up to three times. Short walks during transit trips contribute to this increased activity level.
Two NYU School of Medicine researchers, Iannis Aifantis and Jeremy S. Dasen, have been recognized as Early Career Scientists by the Howard Hughes Medical Institute for their groundbreaking research in cancer biology and neuroscience. They will receive a six-year appointment and funding to further explore their areas of research.
A new study reveals that climate change is drastically reducing daddy long legs populations, which in turn affects the food supply of upland birds such as golden plovers. The drop in cranefly larvae can lead to starvation and death for many chicks.
Dr. DeBose-Boyd, an associate professor of molecular genetics, will receive $1.5 million in funding to support his innovative cholesterol research directions. His work focuses on regulating and controlling cholesterol production, with potential implications for preventing and treating heart disease.
The newly formed National Bioethics Committee for research of Gabon will review clinical trial protocols, ensuring the safety and well-being of African study participants. The committee's establishment marks a significant step towards strengthening ethics review capacity in Africa.
Three Editorials in The Lancet focus on inadequate conditions for US migrant detainees, the need for tailored disease-prevention programs, and the recent Danish decision to award compensation to breast cancer sufferers who worked night shifts. Pope Benedict XVI's comments on AIDS are also criticized for distorting scientific evidence.
A noninvasive finger sensor test is highly predictive of major cardiac events for people at low or moderate risk. The EndoPAT test measures blood flow and identifies endothelial dysfunction, a condition that can lead to atherosclerosis and cardiovascular problems.
UK astronomers successfully observed the asteroid 2008 TC3 using the William Herschel Telescope on La Palma, collecting data that helped predict its impact and study its rare F-class composition. The results demonstrate the importance of asteroid research in mitigating potential impacts.
Scientists have developed a technology that can convert mechanical energy from body movements into electric energy, which can be used to power electronic devices without batteries. The new 'nanogenerator' has potential applications in defense technology, environmental monitoring, biomedical sciences, and personal electronics.
A new study reveals that prime-time television series portray mixed messages about alcohol, with positive messages associated with fun and partying, while negative messages are linked to crime, addiction, or job performance loss. This can undermine efforts to dissuade youth consumption through negative depictions.
Researchers found brain activity in a patient who experienced a supernumerary phantom limb (SPL) that could be felt, seen, and moved intentionally. The study suggests multiple areas of the brain may be involved in SPLs, potentially offering insights into how the brain constructs normal bodily awareness and the self.
A significant minority of therapists continue to offer treatments aimed at changing a person's sexual orientation, despite a lack of evidence supporting their effectiveness. The therapies, often rooted in moral and religious views, can be harmful and lead to increased stress for clients who are already discriminated against.
Researchers found that bacteria in the soil and sediment of river basins in Asia convert iron and arsenic into a form that readily dissolves in water, contaminating groundwater. This discovery has significant implications for policymakers trying to reverse the mass poisoning crisis.
Researchers at Queen's University Belfast have developed new antimicrobial agents to combat hospital-acquired infections. The agents, made of ionic liquids, kill colonies and prevent bacterial growth in biofilms, providing a promising solution for MRSA and other resistant microbes.
Researchers have engineered a new version of the tumour-inhibiting protein VHL that can target hypoxic areas in tumours, reducing HIF levels and causing tumours to regress. This breakthrough has implications for treating various types of cancer, particularly those resistant to conventional therapies.
A new study reveals that less than 2% of US hospitals have comprehensive electronic health records, while 8% use basic EHRs in at least one care unit. The barriers to adoption include high costs and interoperability issues.
A NIST research collaboration has solved the internal structure of Galfenol, a compound that changes shape in response to magnetic fields. The team found that adding gallium creates clusters of distorted cells within an otherwise regular crystal lattice, leading to its enhanced magnetostrictive properties.
A new measurement standard for vitamin D may lead to better bone health, particularly in children, women, and the elderly. The standard, developed by NIST and NIH, will enable more accurate and reliable vitamin D measurements in blood samples.
Researchers have identified a connection between daily cannabis consumption and the appearance of psychosis and schizophrenia in subjects with good premorbid performance. The study found that 66% of patients with normal neurodevelopment admitted to daily cannabis use, while 43% of those with abnormal neurodevelopment also used cannabis.
Researchers successfully identified an asteroid in space before it entered Earth's atmosphere, predicting its area of origin and arrival time. The event tested the society's response to a predicted impact, showcasing the ability to quickly evacuate danger zones and take cover.
Researchers at Brookhaven National Laboratory have developed a method for coating metal surfaces with nanoparticles, rendering them resistant to corrosion and eliminating toxic chromium. The new coating is produced through a simple two-step process and can be applied to various metals, offering improved performance and efficiency.
At-risk teens are more likely to seriously consider suicide if a friend of a friend attempts it, but holding summer jobs can be a deterrent. Summer employment is thought to create self-esteem while reducing isolation and substance abuse, and can even prevent the spread of suicidal thoughts among friends.
A survey of wholesale and retail nursery owners reveals that while customer interest in native plants is increasing, market demand and public education play a key role in its growth. Nursery professionals suggest providing better information sources and marketing campaigns to promote native plants.
A new study found that less than 2% of US hospitals have implemented comprehensive electronic health records, citing high costs as a major barrier. The study suggests that the $19 billion stimulus package may help improve adoption rates, but widespread adoption is still a long way off.
The current system shifts liability solely to healthcare providers, even when they follow vendor instructions and software faults cause errors. The 'learned intermediary' doctrine holds physicians and other clinicians responsible for identifying HIT errors, despite the potential for fatal consequences.
New data from Ugandan scientists find that adult male circumcision decreases rates of herpes and human papillomavirus (HPV), two most common sexually transmitted infections. Circumcision is linked to a 25% reduction in HPV risk and a third reduction in HPV risk, according to researchers at the University of Washington.
The new edition of Discovering Statistics Using SPSS provides an accessible guide to all aspects of statistics, using humorous real-world case studies. The book has been fully revised and restructured with updated materials and online resources, making it the only statistics textbook a student will ever need.
Researchers at the University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston conducted a visual learning study that found viewers can learn about objects in their field of vision without paying attention. This challenges the common belief that attention is necessary for learning from visual stimuli. The study's findings suggest that ignorin...
Researchers found that alternative teacher certification programs (ATCPs) lack focus on teacher development and support. Teachers with prior educational-relevant experience demonstrate higher instruction quality and greater empathy for students.