A RAND Corporation study identifies key issues in designing episode-based payment approaches, including defining episodes of care and identifying accountable providers. The research highlights the need for more rapid testing of these strategies to address challenges such as multiple chronic conditions and varying provider settings.
Researchers used genetic and geographic data to understand why HIV-1 subtypes held steady in west central Africa before erupting as an epidemic in east Africa. The study found that connectivity between population centers and better transportation networks contributed to the rapid spread of the virus.
Dabigatran, a new blood-thinner, has been shown to be as effective as warfarin in preventing strokes and major bleeding, but with significantly fewer side effects. This finding could lead to a change in standard anticoagulant therapy.
A study published in Cancer Prevention Research found that isolated mice developed significantly larger mammary gland tumors compared to group-housed mice, suggesting a link between social environment and cancer growth. The researchers also identified potential molecular biomarkers for breast cancer prevention.
The San Diego Supercomputer Center (SDSC) is part of a four-year project called 'FutureGrid' that aims to develop and test new approaches to parallel, grid, and cloud computing. Researchers will collaborate to create an experimental high-performance grid test-bed, enabling the detection of bugs in software before production.
A recent study by Boston University School of Public Health and the Institute for Aging Research found that women who wear poor shoes are at risk of developing foot pain in later years. The Framingham Foot Study assessed over 3,300 participants and revealed a strong correlation between improper footwear and hindfoot pain.
The University of California's ATHENA Breast Health Network is a groundbreaking statewide collaboration aimed at improving breast cancer care. The project will involve 150,000 women across California and generate rich data on breast cancer treatment, potentially leading to breakthroughs in personalized medicine.
A Monash University study has identified the role of microscopic antennas in the kidney's repair process, shedding light on a potentially fatal disease. The research, led by Dr. James Deane, showed how hair-like structures called cilia change their length in response to injury, amplifying signals that turn off the repair process.
Rice University mathematician Richard Tapia is recognized for his contributions to the advancement of minorities, with a focus on education outreach and K-12 diversity initiatives. He joins an esteemed group of award winners, including artists, politicians, and entertainers.
A new study by Dr. Nitika Pant Pai found that only 15% of HIV-positive repeat offenders in San Francisco County jail continued their antiretroviral treatment between incarcerations or after release, increasing the risk of disease progression and public health transmission.
Researchers found that social isolation caused increased tumor growth and altered gene expression in mouse mammary glands, suggesting potential molecular biomarkers and targets for preventive intervention in human breast cancer. The study also supports previous epidemiologic studies linking social isolation to chronic disease mortality.
Researchers from the University of Miami collaborated with developers to establish a sustainable development project in the Bahamas. The Baker's Bay Golf and Ocean Club project employed environmental scientists to guide construction, resulting in key findings on environmental impacts and mitigation measures.
Researchers at the University of Missouri-Columbia found that nearly half of young adults diagnosed with bipolar disorder between ages 18-25 may recover by age 30. The study suggests a possible link to brain development and social changes during emerging adulthood.
Researchers discovered that Tyrannosaurus rex and its relatives had a potentially deadly infectious disease similar to trichomonosis, which causes swollen jaws and holes. The study found evidence of face-biting marks on many specimens and suggests that cannibalism or head-biting may have spread the disease.
Researchers at the University of Michigan have developed brain implants coated with conducting polymer nanotubes, which can record neural signals better than conventional metal electrodes. The new implants may eventually lead to more effective treatment of neurological disorders like Parkinson's disease and paralysis.
Researchers found that obesity did not lead to knee osteoarthritis in mice with leptin deficiency. Leptin hormone levels were high in obese individuals, but the study suggests it may protect against OA development. Further studies on leptin's role in preventing knee OA are recommended.
The new ocean drilling program will explore the 'deep biosphere', investigating life beyond 1,600 meters below the seafloor and the impact of CO2 on climate. Scientists hope to gain insights into Earth's past, present, and future by analyzing core samples and developing new technologies.
Research from the University of Alberta found that sold-out products create a sense of urgency, increasing consumer demand for similar items. Consumers infer that if a product is sold out, it must be good and therefore desirable.
Researchers at USF Health found that inhibiting the chaperone protein Hsp70 can reduce brain levels of toxic tau protein associated with Alzheimer's disease. The study suggests that targeting Hsp70 could lead to more effective treatments for Alzheimer's and other neurodegenerative diseases.
A new study published in The Lancet found that combining gabapentin and nortriptyline is more effective than using either drug alone in reducing neuropathic pain. The treatment resulted in a significant reduction in pain scores, with patients experiencing relief from their symptoms.
Researchers at LSU Health Sciences Center have identified interleukin-17 (IL-17) as a potential therapeutic target to prevent acute lung injury from influenza infection. Blocking IL-17 signaling may reduce inflammation and lung damage, offering new hope for flu-related complications.
A non-invasive test can effectively screen for silent heart disease and identify high-risk patients, potentially preventing heart attacks and sudden deaths. Coronary artery calcium scans detected plaque in coronary arteries, which were more effective than standard measurements.
Researchers from UT Houston and Jamaica are launching a two-year, $300,000 study to explore the potential connection between genes and toxic metals in causing autism spectrum disorders. The study aims to identify specific genes that may interact with exposure to toxins like mercury, lead, and arsenic.
Researchers have found that soybeans contain high levels of tocopherols, which have antioxidant properties and may play a role in cardiovascular diseases and cancer prevention. The study suggests that selection for high α-tocopherol content in soybeans will be possible, making it easier to develop functional foods with specific health-...
A large-scale study has found a strong association between metabolic syndrome and elevated liver enzymes in obese adolescent males. The researchers also discovered an ethnic difference between Hispanic and non-Hispanic male participants.
Researchers at Brigham Young University have developed a fuel cell that extracts electrons from glucose and other carbohydrates, utilizing a common weed killer as a catalyst. The technology has shown a 29% conversion rate, paving the way for more efficient and commercially viable applications.
A study by Juan Miguel Fernández Campoy found that young inmates in reformatories see academic and professional education as a key to finding employment and escaping delinquent behavior. The researcher suggests improving the facilities' locations, labor market training, and staff relationships to support reintegration.
Researchers found that moss shares basic development processes with humans and discovered a key component in stem cell programming. This discovery has implications for cancer research and could lead to better reprogramming of implanted stem cells.
A new study reveals that the Komodo dragon most likely evolved in Australia and dispersed westward to Indonesia. The research, published in PLOS ONE, also details fossil evidence of a new species of giant varanid found on the island of Timor.
Researchers at Rush University Medical Center are studying a new catheter-based procedure to treat mitral regurgitation, a serious heart disorder where blood leaks back into the left atrium. The eValve MitraClip device holds the flaps of the valve together, preventing leaking and improving heart function.
A majority of Americans are unwilling to take an H1N1 flu vaccine or drug additive authorized for emergency use, citing concerns about safety and effectiveness. The survey found that nearly 30% of respondents remained undecided, while 70% of those who expressed worry would refuse the vaccine outright.
Researchers at the Monell Chemical Senses Center discovered that oleocanthal alters the structure of neurotoxic beta-amyloid proteins, impairing their ability to damage brain nerve cells. This structural change makes oleocanthal a potential target for developing effective immunotherapy treatments.
A large prospective population study found no difference in heart failure risk between fish eaters and non-eaters. However, a beneficial effect was observed in diabetic subjects with high EPA + DHA intake.
Women with metastatic colorectal cancer tend to live longer than men, with those under 45 years old experiencing the greatest survival advantage. However, this benefit disappears with age, suggesting that hormones may be contributing to better outcomes in younger patients.
The USDA's $320 million initiative aims to support programs in 12 states, enabling farmers to implement conservation practices that reduce nutrient runoff and improve wildlife habitat. The program underscores the agency's commitment to sustainable land stewardship and cleaner water.
A new study by Harvard School of Public Health researchers found that overweight women in mid-life had more health problems and impaired cognitive function later in life. Maintaining a healthy weight throughout adulthood may increase the odds of enjoying a healthy life in later years, according to the study.
Researchers at the University of Cincinnati have successfully developed an artificial pore that can transmit double-stranded DNA through a membrane. The engineered channel was created by inserting the modified core of a nanomotor into a lipid membrane, allowing for the movement of single- and double-stranded DNA.
Researchers at the University of Texas at Austin discovered that electric fish communicate by quickly plugging special channels into their cells to generate electrical impulses. The fish use a dimmer switch to save energy by turning their electrical signals up and down.
A University of Michigan study found that life expectancy rose by 6.2 years during the Great Depression, surprising experts. Researchers discovered this increase occurred for both men and women across racial groups, likely due to reduced stress, sleep, and substance abuse in recessions.
The Johns Hopkins Center for the Epigenetics of Common Human Disease has been awarded a $16.8 million NIH grant to advance genomics research. The team will focus on studying epigenetics' role in diseases such as bipolar disorder, aging, and autism.
Researchers from Boston University School of Medicine recommend that women on hormone therapy continue their treatment before annual mammogram screenings. The increase in breast density due to hormone therapy is unlikely to mask early cancer detection, making it unnecessary to stop treatment prior to screening.
Cells in developing tissue consider their history of signaling exposure to determine location, challenging the widely held hypothesis that morphogens are the primary source of positional information. Researchers found that cells require a 'memory' of past exposure to morphogen signals to adopt specific gene expression patterns.
Researcher Elena Nicoladis found that Germans use their thumb to begin counting, while Canadians use their index finger. This variation can lead to miscommunications and misunderstandings, particularly for non-native speakers.
Christine Bullen received the Stevens Institute of Technology Provost Award for her innovative work in teaching and advising in the university's online WebCampus program. She has also developed a four-course IT Outsourcing program, which has been reported to be invaluable by its graduates.
A new method of delivering measles vaccines, using an inhalable powder, has shown promise in test animals. The powder is produced by mixing a weakened measles virus with high-pressure carbon dioxide and can remain stable for at least eight weeks at room temperature.
MESSENGER will zip within 142 miles of Mercury's surface, taking high-resolution color images and ultraviolet measurements. CU-Boulder's MASCS instrument aims to pinpoint iron on the planet's surface, which maintains its magnetic field.
Repeated suicide attempts in older women increase risk of completed suicide, while severe attempts in men do the same. The study highlights the importance of observation and treatment for vulnerable populations.
A recent poll found that 59% of Massachusetts residents support the state's landmark 2006 health reform law, while 79% want the law to continue despite rising healthcare costs and fiscal challenges. The majority of respondents believe the law is successful in providing health insurance coverage to nearly all residents.
A study found that despite electronic alert notifications, patients with abnormal imaging test results often do not receive timely follow-up care. This is particularly challenging due to the high volume of transitions between clinicians in outpatient care.
A population-based study found that initiating cholinesterase inhibitor therapy for dementia increases the risk of hospitalization for bradycardia by over doubling. Meanwhile, a separate team led by Louisa Degenhardt examines cannabis use as a risk factor for psychosis and proposes its inclusion in global burden of disease estimates.
A recent study published in PLOS Medicine suggests that individuals prescribed thiazolidinediones for type 2 diabetes are at increased risk of bone fractures. The self-controlled case-series study analyzed data from over 6 million patients and found a nearly one-and-a-half times higher fracture rate among those taking the medication.
A new Kaiser Permanente study found that women with diabetes are 26% more likely to develop atrial fibrillation than non-diabetic women. The study involved nearly 35,000 patients over seven years and isolated the effect of diabetes as an independent risk factor for women.
Van Andel Institute researchers found the gene RhoB is crucial in the progression of Myelodysplastic Syndrome (MDS), a bone marrow disease affecting up to 15,000 people annually. The study's findings may lead to new treatments for late-stage MDS and its potential applications in leukemia and solid tumors.
Australian researchers have discovered a vast number of new species of invertebrates living in underground water, caves and micro-caverns across arid and semi-arid Australia. The team found whole communities of previously unknown invertebrate animals, revealing a completely new component to the country's biodiversity.
The University of North Carolina has been awarded a $8.6 million NIH grant to investigate the complex factors contributing to psychiatric disorders such as autism, depression, and anxiety. By using laboratory mice to screen genetic possibilities, researchers aim to understand how genes and environment interact to shape these traits.
A Swiss study found that prostate cancer patients with lower incomes receive worse care and have a higher risk of dying from the disease. The research suggests that socioeconomic status plays a significant role in prostate cancer mortality, with poorer patients receiving less comprehensive treatment and more advanced stages at diagnosis.
A report from Texas A&M University suggests that Lean thinking can transform adult education by adapting traditional methods to provide learners with personalized, cost-effective learning experiences. Key principles include cellular processes, policy deployment, flow, and standardization.
Researchers have developed transgenic songbirds to study the molecular secrets of vocal learning and neuronal replacement. The birds, which can be manipulated genetically, will enable scientists to explore these complex processes at the molecular level.
A study by psychiatrist Szabolcs Kéri found a clear link between neuregulin 1 gene variant and increased creativity. Volunteers with the specific variant scored higher on creativity assessments and reported greater lifetime creative achievements.
Dr. Feinman will present on the controversy surrounding dietary strategies for diabetes treatment, stating that carbohydrate consumption raises blood glucose levels. He emphasizes that there is scientific consensus on this issue, but disagrees with healthcare professionals' advice.