A Tel Aviv University study found that playing violent video games can enhance the ability of teenagers to discriminate between subtle contrasts in color or shades of gray. After playing 50 hours of violent action games, players showed a significant improvement in contrast sensitivity, with some even experiencing up to 58% enhancement.
Scientists discovered variable ribosomal RNA genes in yeast, which are essential to all Earth's organisms. The genes show surprise variation despite being vital for cell function, and hybridization of two yeasts re-set their clocks, providing clues on evolutionary history.
UT Southwestern University Hospital has received the Commission on Cancer Outstanding Achievement Award, recognizing its commitment to providing high-quality cancer care. The award is based on rigorous evaluations of the hospital's cancer program standards, including leadership, data management, and clinical services.
A new study from Duke University Medical Center suggests that high protein intake with fat consumption may contribute to insulin resistance in obese individuals. The research found that the combination of branched-chain amino acids and high-fat diets caused changes at the cellular level that can lead to insulin resistance.
The Rice-led PACE project aims to improve compiler performance for various microprocessors, including PCs, cell phones, and game systems. Researchers hope to develop tools that can optimize compilers in real-time, enabling faster application execution and reduced power consumption.
A randomized assessment of Mexico's Seguro Popular program reveals a significant reduction in household-crippling expenditure, with poorest individuals benefiting most. The study also introduces innovative approaches to evaluate public policies and provides a validated architecture for delivering health services to the poor.
Researchers found that cigarette smoke exposure alters the immune response to bacteria in mice, leading to increased inflammation and weight loss. This shift in inflammatory markers may impact treatment efficacy with corticosteroids for COPD patients.
A special class at UCLA helps high-functioning teens with autism spectrum disorders learn social etiquette and interact with peers. The program, PEERS, focuses on teaching rules of social behavior and provides parents with guidance to support their child's development.
A study published in JAMA Network found that cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) significantly improved anxiety symptoms, worry severity, and depressive symptoms in older adults with generalized anxiety disorder. CBT was more effective than enhanced usual care in reducing anxiety and improving overall mental health outcomes.
A clinical trial found that exercise significantly improves the lives of heart failure patients by improving physical limitations, symptoms, and overall quality of life. The study, which enrolled over 2,300 patients, showed a five-point gain on quality-of-life measures for those who exercised, compared to those who received standard care.
A new study reveals that high-fat diets supplemented with extra branched chain amino acids can lead to insulin resistance and diabetes in rats. The researchers found that BCAA tend to climb along with insulin resistance, and its effects are exacerbated when combined with high fat consumption.
A Lancet study evaluated Mexico's universal health insurance program, Seguro Popular, in dozens of communities. The experiment found a 23% reduction in catastrophic health expenditures and identified areas for improvement. Researchers suggest this model could inform US healthcare reforms.
Scientists have designed nanosensors that can detect specific molecules, such as poisons and proteins, in transport screening situations or patients' blood samples. The sensors use a unique interaction between two metallic nanostructures to scatter light differently, allowing for highly sensitive detection.
Researchers discovered a key checkpoint in cell growth and development that may allow investigators to benchmark progression of tumor cells or stop them from further development. The mechanism involves the activation of p21-activated kinase 2 (PAK2) in certain tissues but not others, and is controlled by the Erbin/Merlin complex.
A large observational study found that combined oral contraceptives are associated with an increased risk of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), particularly among women who started using them recently. The study suggests a possible dose-response effect of estrogen on SLE onset.
A new study published in the American Journal of Epidemiology found that carrying extra weight earlier in life significantly increases the risk of developing problems with mobility in old age. Even if weight is eventually lost, the longer an individual was overweight or obese, the greater the risk.
A Mexican health care program created in 2003 has been found effective in reducing crippling health care costs among poorer households. The Seguro Popular program was developed to provide health care to 50 million Mexicans who otherwise would lack coverage, and its success could provide lessons for other countries.
Researchers found that patients hospitalized for surgery returned to normal baseline function more quickly than those hospitalized for illness, suggesting increased expectations of recovery may be a key factor. The study highlights the importance of promoting physical and cognitive activity during hospitalization to prevent functional ...
The University of Nottingham's studies found that improved collaboration with clinicians, better funding, and regulatory certainty are crucial for stem cell therapy success. The industry is at risk of market failure due to structural barriers within the NHS.
A study of 5,302 Finnish individuals found that childhood psychiatric problems were associated with later severe suicidality in males, particularly those with conduct, hyperactive, or emotional problems. In contrast, depression at age 8 was not linked to female suicidal behavior.
A new study found that obesity prevalence differs among racial and ethnic groups in US children as young as 4, with American Indian/Native Alaskan children being twice as likely to be obese as white and Asian children. An estimated 18.4% of 4-year-olds are considered obese.
Scientists at UC San Diego School of Medicine have clearly shown regeneration of critical nerve fibers required for voluntary movement. The breakthrough uses genetically engineered neurons to over-express receptors for BDNF, enabling corticospinal axon regeneration.
Researchers found that brief behavioral interventions prior to and after surgery improved short- and long-term outcomes, including lower mood disturbance and better quality of life. The study's findings suggest that pre-surgical stress management can have a lasting impact on patients' well-being.
A new study from U of T's Rotman School found that employees who experienced sexual behavior in the workplace reported lower morale, felt less valued, and had higher rates of depression. While some employees enjoyed such behavior, its presence was often counterproductive.
A recent study by researchers from UC Santa Barbara's National Center for Ecological Analysis and Synthesis has shed light on how to effectively manage the world's endangered coral reef ecosystems. The study reveals that the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands, a vast area stretching over 1,200 miles, are highly vulnerable to human-induced t...
Research led by David Hess identified how to use bone marrow stem cells to grow new blood vessels in mice with ligated leg arteries. These pro-angiogenic stem cells have a natural ability to induce blood vessel repair and improve blood flow in ischemic limbs.
The Verification of Rotation in Tornadoes EXperiment 2 (VORTEX2 or V2) will study the origins, structure, and evolution of tornadoes from May 10 to June 13. Data collected will help researchers understand how tornadoes form and improve forecasts.
Researchers analyzed human muscle tissue from SMA patients to understand transcriptional changes. The study found distinct expression signatures for severe and mild forms of SMA, revealing different phases of atrophy and hypertrophy in muscles affected by each form.
Research suggests that young children who struggle with self-regulation are more likely to gain weight and develop obesity by their pre-teen years. Studies found that children with limited ability to delay gratification were 29% more likely to be overweight at age 11.
Researchers found that individual receptive fields have irregular shapes but interlock to form a regular lattice, enabling high-resolution vision. The nervous system operates with higher precision than previously thought, overcoming potential problems with uneven visual coverage.
Researchers used DESI-MS to analyze seaweed surfaces for defensive chemicals, finding 28 compounds that inhibit fungal growth. These compounds have potential applications against cancer, HIV, malaria, and other diseases.
Researchers from University College London have developed a new device to enable people living with HIV to monitor their own health and treatment effectiveness. The device uses nano-cantilever arrays to measure HIV markers, providing patients with clear, immediate advice on their condition.
The study found that organic and rotational grazing systems were more profitable than conventional monocropping, despite increased risk exposure. The results suggest that governmental policy should support crop rotations and organic farming practices.
The Integrated Ocean Drilling Program has expanded its international support with the addition of Australia, India, and New Zealand as Associate Members. These countries will contribute scientists to upcoming expeditions, expanding research opportunities in climate change, geodynamics, and marine biology.
A new study has identified a biomarker, ZNF423, associated with poor outcome in neuroblastoma, the most common childhood cancer. Reduced expression of ZNF423 was linked to increased growth and resistance to differentiation in tumor cells.
A new study from North Carolina State University finds that states holding early presidential primaries or caucuses receive more federal procurement funding per capita if they back the eventual winner. The earlier a state votes, however, the smaller the benefit for backing a losing candidate.
Researchers at Duke University Medical Center have identified a signaling pathway that initiates the flushing response associated with nicotinic acid. Analysis of human cell lines revealed that beta-arrestin proteins play a key role in this process, which may be targeted to prevent side effects while maintaining therapeutic benefits. I...
Researchers at Seattle Cancer Care Alliance found Avastin to be effective in delaying brain tumor progression and improving quality of life for patients with recurrent Grade 3 brain tumors. The treatment improved survival time while reducing the impact of steroids on patients, who experienced a marked improvement in their condition.
Researchers found that temperate forests in eastern North America can store more carbon than previously believed, with potential to accumulate up to two-fold higher than current estimates. The study suggests that forest management practices may be more important than intrinsic limits on carbon storage.
A team of MIT researchers used game theory to study cooperative behavior in yeast, finding that individual benefit can outweigh costs and lead to successful competition against non-cooperators. The study offers a concrete example of how cooperative behaviors can be compatible with evolutionary theory.
Researchers found that reducing sugary beverages consumption leads to a decrease in calorie intake in children and teens. An intervention program also showed promise in changing behaviors among Dutch schoolchildren.
Researchers have successfully tested a method to adjust the immune system to accept transplanted cells as 'self' in mice. The complex combines IL-2 with an antibody to stimulate T regulatory cells, boosting specific populations and subduing others.
Researchers have discovered a new approach to controlling malaria by killing only older mosquitoes, reducing the selection for resistant insects. This method could lead to evolution-proof insecticides that never become obsolete, saving millions of dollars in development costs.
Research reveals that 3-year-olds, dogs, and young children share similar social environments, leading to comparable understanding of human gestures. 3-year-olds rely on the index finger's direction to locate hidden objects, while 2-year-olds and dogs respond to protruding body parts.
Researchers at the University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center have discovered a gene that helps protect PTEN, a major tumor-suppressor protein, from degradation in breast cancer. Rak's protective effect is linked to its ability to stabilize PTEN protein, preventing breast cancer development.
Researchers developed Sun Dial to help Muslim users determine prayer times, finding imagery-based prompts more appealing than text-based options. The app aims to enhance the religious experience by reminding users of their community ties.
Scientists at Duke University Medical Center have identified the molecular pathways triggered by niacin, which could lead to a revival of niacin-based treatments for cholesterol. The discovery suggests that a 'biased ligand' could be developed to target the beneficial effects of niacin while minimizing its flushing side effect.
Cognitive behavior therapy and supportive stress management show promise in treating depression after CABG surgery, with significant differences found between treatment groups and usual care. These non-pharmacological interventions are more effective than usual care for treating depression after coronary artery bypass graft surgery.
Researchers at Clemson University are developing new test methods to address alkali-silica reaction (ASR) in concrete, a common durability problem affecting infrastructure like roads and bridges. This research has the potential to save millions of dollars by minimizing or preventing ASR distress.
A team of researchers has established a compendium of 2,516 potential biomarkers for pancreatic cancer, with over 200 genes shortlisted for further study. The findings provide a strategic approach to early detection and could lead to the development of more accurate diagnostic tests.
New head-to-head clinical studies reveal that Reach Ultraclean Toothbrush and Floss outperform leading products in plaque removal. The studies found that Reach Ultraclean Floss removes up to two times more plaque than Glide floss products, while the toothbrush provides improved gum health and removes 90% of hard-to-reach plaque.
Recent research reveals a 'pacemaker' climate shift mode controlling global temperature changes. Meanwhile, natural ocean 'thermostats' for Pacific reefs are disputed, suggesting underreported bleaching events. Space dust also interacts with the atmosphere, vaporizing and leaving behind high-altitude metal ions and molecules.
A simple bedside test developed by Massachusetts General Hospital researchers accurately distinguishes neuropathic pain from other types of chronic back pain. The Standardized Evaluation of Pain (StEP) assessment is a low-tech approach that outperforms existing screening tests and even MR imaging in identifying underlying pain mechanisms.
Researchers have identified a gene variant on chromosome 11 that is linked to an increased risk of atopic dermatitis, a chronic inflammatory skin disease. The study found that this variant is also associated with Crohn's disease and affects approximately 36% of the European population.
Grapevine flowers' fragrance comes from pollen grains stored in anthers, contrary to common perception that petals produce perfume. The scent serves as a defense mechanism to protect male reproductive tissues from predatory insects.
Researchers found a significant increase in serious heart rhythm disturbances associated with bisphosphonate therapy. However, non-serious cases showed no overall increased risk of atrial fibrillation. The study urges additional investigations to determine the link between the two conditions.
Two new studies published in Annals of Internal Medicine propose an intensive disease management approach to help smokers quit successfully, including repeated or intensive interventions that include pharmacotherapy and counseling. The studies also suggest targeting healthier older patients with colorectal cancer screening and using LD...
Researchers at UC San Diego School of Medicine have reviewed the neurobiology of wisdom, identifying key brain regions involved in its attributes such as empathy, compassion and emotional stability. The study suggests an optimal balance between primitive and pre-frontal cortex brain regions may enhance wisdom.
New research using African frogs reveals that alcohol 'hijacks' a molecule needed to produce retinoic acid, which is crucial for embryonic development. This leads to cellular disorientation and malformations in babies.
Researchers found that eating broccoli sprouts daily for eight weeks significantly reduced Helicobacter pylori infection levels in humans. This reduction is expected to lead to a decrease in stomach cancer risk due to the well-established cause-and-effect link between H. pylori and stomach cancer.