Researchers at Brown University found MR enterography to be an effective tool for evaluating and guiding treatment of Crohn's Disease patients without exposing them to unnecessary radiation. The test was shown to provide valuable information for guiding patient management, with physicians overwhelmingly preferring it over CT scans.
A study at the University of Washington found that cardiac CT is a cost-effective approach to diagnose low-risk chest pain patients, reducing costs by 44% and shortening hospital stays by up to 20 hours. The new technique uses lower-dose cardiac CT options, allowing for faster evaluation and discharge in under six hours.
A new study found that a novel compound decreases rats' preference for cocaine-associated environments during subsequent tests. This process is called extinction learning, where the brain creates new associations instead of retrieving old ones.
A study published in the American Journal of Human Genetics found a significant evidence for a gene on chromosome 9q21 that may contribute to pelvic floor disorders. The researchers analyzed DNA from 70 women from 32 families with at least two cases of pelvic floor disorders and found significant evidence for a genetic predisposition.
New research reveals that methane clathrate stores beneath the ocean and in permafrost are more stable than previously thought, reducing concerns over climate change. A 10% release of methane would have an equivalent impact on global warming as a ten-fold increase in carbon dioxide concentration.
A study by American College of Radiology found that educating physicians about ventilation-perfusion (VQ) scanning reduced patient radiation exposure from 11.5 mSv in 2006 to 8.9 mSv in 2007. VQ scanning is now preferred for patients with normal chest x-rays suspected of having pulmonary embolism.
A University of Washington computer scientist has led a statistical study comparing the pattern of symbols in the Indus script to various linguistic scripts and nonlinguistic systems. The results found the Indus script's pattern is closer to that of spoken words, supporting the hypothesis that it codes for an as-yet-unknown language.
A trove of Benjamin Franklin letters has been discovered in the British Library, dating from 1755. The letters, written by Thomas Birch and copied by him in 1757 or 1758, provide new insights into the 'wagon affair' and Franklin's involvement in the French and Indian War.
Researchers have found promising results with stem cells obtained from a patient's own adipose tissue in treating multiple sclerosis. The treatment, known as stromal vascular fraction (SVF) cell therapy, has shown dramatic improvement in symptoms for three patients with MS.
UC Davis establishes Mountain Gorilla One Health Program to conserve gorillas & address human health, livestock, and agricultural issues. The program aims to improve gorilla health & prevent disease from affecting human populations.
Researchers have identified a common genetic variation associated with the risk of colorectal cancer and its functional implications. The study found that this variation causes the expression of a nearby gene, SMAD7, to decrease, leading to critical signaling events that can set cells on the path to cancer.
A pioneering study has successfully implanted autologous tissue-engineered vascular grafts in dialysis patients, with a majority of the grafts functioning for six to 20 months after implantation. The novel approach uses cells harvested from the patient's own skin to create the grafts without synthetic scaffolds or biomaterials.
A study at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center found that excluding the lateral view in chest radiograph screenings decreases radiation exposure by 67%. No abnormalities were detected in the lateral view that weren
Joe Kotarba, University of Houston sociology department chairman, has received the George Herbert Mead Award for his lifetime achievement in symbolic interaction. He will be honored at the SSSI/American Sociological Association meeting in San Francisco this August.
A new cancer drug, 3-BrOP, has been found to reduce neuroblastoma growth by 75 percent in pre-clinical studies. The drug works by blocking the main energy source, glucose, thereby starving cancer cells and disrupting their ability to grow.
A recent study reveals that Texas' farms, ranches, and forests are losing land, with 156 counties losing 2.1 million acres between 1997 and 2006, according to Dr. Neal Wilkins and American Farmland Trust.
A study found that most ordering physicians underestimate radiation doses from CT scans and overestimate their cancer risk, according to the American College of Radiology. The study suggests that improved radiation education is needed for medical professionals.
The bovine genome consists of at least 22,000 protein-coding genes, with significant rearrangements compared to human and mouse genomes. The sequence provides new insights into ruminant evolution, unique traits making cattle useful to humans, and the mechanisms behind genetic changes.
Researchers found a layer on top of subducted plates where S-waves are 30-50% slower than typical oceanic crust, indicating high water saturation levels. This ultra-slow-velocity layer is linked to slow earthquakes and non-volcanic tremors, providing clues about their causes.
A study published in Clinical Journal of the American Society Nephrology found that patients with more knowledge about dialysis are more likely to use permanent vascular access. The researchers also identified factors associated with lower knowledge, including age, education level, and race.
A new study suggests that teenagers with a strong parent-child relationship may start drinking at a later age and be less likely to develop alcohol problems. The study found that high-quality relationships can 'trigger a spiral of healthy development' during adolescence, leading to lower risk of substance abuse.
A recent study on the bovine genome has provided valuable insights into potential new developments in cattle research. The project identified single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) that can help researchers identify favorable traits, leading to improved disease resistance and meat quality.
A new report reveals that fire influences global warming more than previously thought, with human-caused fires contributing significantly to the greenhouse effect. The study estimates that deforestation due to burning by humans releases an amount of carbon dioxide equal to 50% of fossil fuel combustion.
The completed cow genome provides insights into mammalian evolution, cattle-specific biology, and the genetic bases of milk. Researchers discovered over 22,000 protein-coding genes and 500 miRNAs, highlighting potential for breeding more sustainable livestock.
A new computer algorithm assesses mammographic breast density by automatically segmenting breast tissue from background, removing muscle, and using region growing to determine dense areas. This method provides objective and accurate recommendations on further imaging or monitoring, reducing variability among radiologists.
A study using diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) reveals new details about the brain's white matter tracts, allowing radiologists to better understand conditions such as tumors, hemorrhages, and strokes. DTI provides a comprehensive view of brain anatomy, including connectivity between regions.
A research team found that potassium ions strongly bound to the surface of titania nanotubes improve their performance in solar cells producing hydrogen gas from water. By controlling potassium deposition, engineers can achieve significant energy savings.
In the past two years, significant strides have been made in malaria control and elimination, with many countries setting ambitious strategies to achieve low transmission and mortality rates. Research into vaccines, drugs, and other interventions continues to flourish, offering hope for a future malaria-free world.
Researchers have discovered that fish can harbour and spread PKD, a debilitating condition causing severe inflammation of the kidneys. The discovery paves the way for effective control measures against the disease, which has devastated the UK's fish farming industry.
Bioengineers at UC San Diego have developed a novel method for sequencing-based methylation profiling, enabling more efficient and cost-effective methods for studying certain diseases. The breakthrough could fuel personalized regenerative medicine and help address concerns about stem cell tumors.
A new MR procedure using diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) can correctly identify 50 of 60 malignant lesions and 23 of 25 benign lesions, potentially reducing false-positive rates. This technique may help save women from unnecessary breast biopsies by characterizing benign from malignant lesions.
The University of Melbourne's bionic eye project received a $50 million funding boost from the Federal Government, with plans to conduct its first clinical test within two years. The project aims to develop a high-resolution bionic eye that can differentiate between objects beyond current capabilities.
Researchers at Scripps Research Institute successfully generate embryonic-like stem cells from adult cells using chemical programming, overcoming safety concerns associated with genetic manipulation. This breakthrough has the potential to revolutionize personalized stem cell-based medicine for various diseases.
The UCSF Visiting Professor Program has provided training and mentoring to 40 visiting professors from minority universities, resulting in over $50 million in research funding and 425 scientific publications. The program accelerates careers and promotes interdisciplinary approaches to HIV/AIDS prevention research.
Breakpoint regions on chromosomes contain a higher density of genes and are more susceptible to breakage, leading to genetic variation. The study found that rearrangements in these regions can lead to new sources of variation, potentially subject to natural selection.
The complete cattle genome has been sequenced and annotated, providing unique insight into the biology and evolution of cattle. This breakthrough research could lead to significant improvements in beef and dairy production, including increased milk production, disease resistance, and meat quality.
A study found that ultrasound significantly changed management decisions for 50% of patients with rheumatic hand and foot conditions. Ultrasound increased certainty in clinical findings, ranging from 24% to 56%, and led to a decrease in the use of disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs) for difficult-to-assess patients.
A study from the Medical College of Wisconsin found that the removal of more than five lymph nodes and presence of cancer in the lymph nodes are key factors linked to lymphedema. The study suggests that all women undergoing axillary surgery should be counseled on their risk for lymphedema.
A study at UCLA used preoperative MRI to evaluate neurovascular bundles in patients undergoing robotic-assisted laparoscopic prostatectomy (RALP). The results showed that preoperative MR assisted surgeons in making more informed decisions about nerve sparing techniques, with less likelihood of causing impotence.
A recent study suggests that a change in Medicare reimbursement policy could disadvantage African American patients with kidney disease, who require more treatment with costly erythropoiesis stimulating agents. The new policy may create a
Researchers found that historically-defined autobiographical periods exist, but their formation depends on the intensity and novelty of public events. Public events like wars and natural disasters can categorize personal memories as 'emotionally charged' or 'epoch-defining', causing them to become entwined with history.
A study by researchers at the University of Virginia found that MRI is highly accurate in diagnosing appendicitis in pregnant patients, with a success rate of 94%. This non-invasive imaging technique offers a safe alternative to radiation-based CT scans and ultrasound, which often fail to provide accurate results.
A new automated system for interpreting coronary CT angiography (CCTA) studies detects major coronary artery stenosis with 95% accuracy, helping prioritize cases. The technology aims to improve radiologist efficiency and reduce response times in positive cases.
New research by the American Psychological Association finds that living outside the box - literally - can boost creativity. Studies show that individuals who have spent time living abroad are more likely to come up with creative solutions to complex problems, such as a classic test of creative insight known as the Duncker candle problem.
A study found that microRNA miR-504 regulates the expression of the dopamine D1 receptor gene, increasing the risk of nicotine dependence. The research suggests a potential link between smoking risk genes and neurobiology of addiction.
A group of Michigan State University scientists warn that US farm animal research is facing a critical funding crisis, with only $32 million allocated from a $88 billion budget in 2007. This lack of funding threatens not only the research itself but also human health studies that rely on large-animal models.
Researchers have sequenced and analyzed the domestic cattle genome, identifying approximately 22,000 genes and sharing about 80% with humans. The findings provide critical insights into the structure and function of the human genome, including segmental duplications that affect immunity and metabolism.
Researchers have developed an alternative treatment method for chronic Achilles tendon tendinosis, with sonographically-guided debridement showing significant improvements in 60% of patients who had failed conservative treatments. The procedure encourages the body's natural repair process to heal damaged tendons.
A DNA-based therapeutic vaccination has shown antiviral effects in patients with chronic hepatitis C, with 67% experiencing significant reductions in viral load. The vaccine, developed using naked DNA delivered by electroporation, was found to induce immune responses and activate the host T cell response in patients.
Researchers found that baroque classical music significantly improved radiologists' mood and work satisfaction, with 63% of participants reporting a positive impact. The study suggests that environmental factors like music can enhance the work environment for busy radiology reading rooms.
Researchers at UC San Diego and Microsoft Research have developed a plug-and-play hardware prototype called Somniloquy, which induces a new energy-saving state in personal computers. This allows PCs to save up to 80% of their energy consumption while still maintaining network presence and running well-defined application functions.
A study at the University of California San Francisco Medical Center found certain ultrasound features indicative of cancer, allowing for non-invasive management. Microcalcifications, taller-than-wide shape, and hypoechogenicity were identified as high-risk features.
A new imaging technique called breast elastography enables accurate diagnoses of breast cancer by analyzing tissue stiffness. This study found that breast elastography outperformed conventional ultrasound in diagnosing breast cancers, reducing unnecessary biopsies and patient anxiety.
A computer-aided detection system has been shown to detect 45-55% of overlooked lung cancer nodules, potentially leading to earlier diagnosis and improved survival rates. The study suggests that CAD software can assist radiologists in identifying subtle signs of early lung cancer.
The Commission for Environmental Cooperation releases guidelines to assess and mitigate the risks of aquatic invasive species, which can cause significant environmental harm and economic losses. The guidelines aim to promote preventive measures and harmonized actions among North American countries.
A 11,600-year-old methane spike in ancient Greenland ice suggests wetlands as the primary source, offering relief from oceanic clathrate concerns. Methane emissions from human activities remain a significant concern, with potential to release large amounts of greenhouse gas.
A study at Massachusetts General Hospital found that image-guided drainage of tubo-ovarian abscesses avoided salpingo-oophorectomy in 95% of pelvic inflammatory disease cases and 72% overall. This non-surgical treatment preserves fertility and ovarian function.
A study by Dr. Federica Pediconi found that second look ultrasound enhances breast cancer detection in cases where MRI and mammography miss lesions. In some cases, it even helps determine a lesion's malignancy or benignity.
A study found that educating ordering physicians on the risks, benefits, and alternatives of various imaging modalities reduced unneeded studies by 26%. This targeted education led to a significant decrease in CT scans and nuclear medicine studies, minimizing patient radiation exposure.
Researchers at NIST create device to detect chirality in molecules, which could indicate presence of life. The technique may be used to search for extraterrestrial life by analyzing light reflected from planetary surfaces.
The study identified GP130 somatic activating mutations in 65% of inflammatory hepatocellular tumours, revealing a new pathway of tumourigenesis. These mutations also enabled the refinement of molecular classification of hepatocellular tumors.
A study at Boston University School of Medicine found that brief intervention improved outcomes for medical inpatients with non-dependent, unhealthy alcohol use, including reduced drinks per day and better physical health-related quality of life. However, the intervention had little effect on those with dependence, who experienced wors...
Researchers confirm that major methane increases near the end of the last Ice Age were due to wetland growth and associated methane releases, not sudden bursts of seafloor methane. The study's findings provide a significant relief as they largely rule out massive seafloor hydrate deposits as a source of methane.
The completed bovine genome sequence provides new information about mammalian evolution, cattle genetics, and improved cattle production. Researchers identified genetic variation among different breeds of cattle, shedding light on the relationship between genes and meat quality.
Researchers found that a surge in atmospheric methane gas 11,600 years ago was more chemically consistent with an expansion of wetlands rather than a large-scale melting of frozen methane deposits. This discovery suggests that wetland regions may have played a significant role in regulating global warming during past events.
The Opioid Growth Factor (OGF) and its receptor (OGFr) play a crucial role in regulating cell proliferation by modulating cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitors. The study found that transport of OGFr into the nucleus required two out of three nuclear localization signals, highlighting the importance of this pathway in cancer treatment.
Chemists have developed a catalyst to produce hydrogen and electricity simultaneously in existing gas power plants with minimal investment. The technology could ease the transition to a hydrogen economy by repurposing existing infrastructure.
A study by Luca Saba found that diabetes and hypertension are significantly related to carotid artery wall thickness, a major risk factor for heart attack and stroke. Patients with CAWT greater than 1mm in diabetes or hypertension are at increased risk of stroke.
A study at the University of Arizona found that remote CT colonography is feasible in rural health centers using teleradiology. Technicians performed CTC exams on 86 patients and sent data to a local server for interpretation by an off-site radiologist.
A new study reveals that two-thirds of the racial gap in death rates among African Americans and Caucasians is due to preventable or treatable conditions. The major contributor to this disparity is conditions with effective treatments, such as stroke, diabetes, and hypertension.
A recent cattle genome sequencing milestone has significant implications for human health research, revealing a closer genetic link between humans and cattle than previously thought. The study's findings suggest that milk evolved as an immune function, essential to the survival of newborn mammals, dating back over 160 million years.
The 64-slice CT scanner is the most efficient radiation source for evaluating pregnant patients with possible pulmonary emboli, according to a study. This technology reduces fetal exposure by shortening scan times and minimizing scatter radiation, while still providing accurate diagnoses.
A study of over 2,000 seniors found that quitting smoking can slow down gait and improve overall health. Changing bad habits such as poor food choices and lack of exercise can also have a significant impact on senior health.
A new study supports CT colonography as a primary screening test for colon cancer, with high accuracy in detecting clinically important polyps. The study found that 91.6% of detected lesions were also found during optical colonoscopy or surgery.
A new study has developed a software that utilizes the Nintendo Wii gaming system's infrared sensor and accelerometer to enable flexible ways for radiologists to interact with patient images. This method may alleviate limitations of traditional keyboard-mouse interfaces and reduce repetitive motion injuries.
A new University of Illinois study suggests that moderate exercise can reduce visceral fat inflammation, even without a change in diet. The benefits were apparent in both short-term and long-term studies, with significant reductions in belly fat and improved insulin sensitivity found in mice.
Scientists found ion channels on middle and shortest rows of stereocilia, not as previously thought. The discovery could lead to new treatments for hearing loss and deafness by understanding the adaptation process.
A noninvasive test using diffusion weighted MRI accurately identifies benign from malignant pelvic lymph nodes in patients with gynecologic malignancy. The test has a sensitivity of 92% and specificity of 85%, making it a useful tool for determining the extent of cancer spread.
The University of Miami's Rosenstiel School received a $900,000 gift from the G. Unger Vetlesen Foundation to purchase an ICP-MS, expanding its analytical capabilities. The new equipment will enable scientists to study smaller samples and analyze trace elements in ocean water samples.
The NRL's SoloHI instrument will provide revolutionary measurements to pinpoint solar storms, offering a pristine view of the solar wind plasma. The Solar Orbiter mission aims to understand how the sun varies and its impact on planetary systems.
Jeremy Nathans receives the Scolnick Prize for his groundbreaking work on color vision, brain development, and retinal disease. His research has led to significant insights into human blindness and the basis for many forms of color blindness.
MRI technology successfully identifies prostate cancer spread beyond the gland, helping doctors determine if surgery is necessary. The study reviewed 119 patients and found that MRI correctly identified 95% of T2 cases and 75% of T3 disease
A new MRI sequence, T2-weighted BLADE, improves image quality and reduces motion artifacts in female pelvis imaging. This allows radiologists to make more accurate diagnoses of uterine leiomyomas, ovarian cancers, and other abnormalities.
A study using MRI has identified five possible causes of patient complications after ACL reconstructive surgery, including graft discontinuity and hardware failure. Persistent pain is the most common complaint among patients, with other symptoms such as instability and joint swelling also reported.
Researchers link muscle decline to elevated carbon dioxide in blood of patients with lung diseases, discovering surprising effects including increased lifespan and dynamic gene changes. High CO2 levels may impact treatment strategies for lung conditions.
Researchers found that nicotine alters brain areas involved in inhibiting negative emotions like anger, leading to reduced retaliation and increased cravings. The study supports the idea that individuals with an angry disposition are more susceptible to nicotine's effects.
Researchers at LMU Munich have created a system of nanostrings made of non-conducting material, which can be individually electrically excited and produce thousands of strings on a small chip. This breakthrough could lead to the development of highly sensitive 'artificial noses' for detecting various molecules, including pollutants.
The European Union has launched a €400 million research program to develop highly precise measurements in healthcare, energy, environmental and advanced technology sectors. The EMRP program aims to bring together the best minds from one research area, creating new foundations for metrology.
A BUSM study found that using photographs of UV exposure motivates preteens to adopt better sun protection habits, resulting in a 36% lower reported sunburn rate compared to a control group. The UV photographs also helped identify high-risk students who benefited from the intervention.
Scientists from the University of Maryland have published their assembly of the domestic cow genome, improving on previous versions in terms of completeness and accuracy. The new assembly is anchored onto chromosomes with around 91% of the genome placed correctly.
Liver disease is the most prevalent cause of alcohol-related deaths in Portugal, accounting for 28.3% of related deaths. The study also found that alcohol-related diseases account for 1.25% of health expenditure in Portugal, totaling €189.2 million in direct costs.
Researchers at the University of Maryland are working on a project to analyze vast amounts of DNA sequencing data using remote computer clusters, also known as Cloud Computing. The goal is to determine whether this approach can be more cost-effective and efficient than traditional local clusters.
Researchers found that adjusting kVp and mAs levels according to a child's body shape can significantly decrease radiation dose during CT scans. The study used phantoms representing average waist sizes for children, resulting in lower doses at smaller phantom diameters.
Researchers at EMBL discovered Vtc4p as the protein responsible for producing polyphosphate chains in yeast, a process crucial for energy storage and other cellular functions. This finding has significant implications for agriculture, including improved crop production and fertilizer development.
A subset of immune cells has been found to contribute to the development of severe malaria by suppressing the immune system and allowing parasites to grow uncontrollably. This discovery could lead to new drug targets and immunotherapies against malaria, as well as insights into other inflammatory diseases.
Researchers discovered benfotiamene, a fat-soluble form of vitamin B1, strongly suppresses uveitis by shutting down NF-kappa B activation. This treatment has great potential due to its low cost and rapid absorption, with existing clinical trials showing improved diabetic polyneuropathy outcomes.
The Lancet Editorial highlights the dire humanitarian situation in Sri Lanka, citing higher maternal and infant mortality rates in the Tamil-dominated northeast. The report attributes these inequalities to violence, economic embargo, and discrimination against Tamils.
NICE is expanding its programs and taking on new initiatives due to the Next Stage Review of the NHS. The institute will build a web-based portal called NHS Evidence, providing validated information for clinicians and managers.
A study published in the Journal of Neuroscience found that a specific gene can be 'switched on' in animals without a genetic predisposition to epilepsy, leading to changes in calcium channels and brain activity. This discovery may reveal a new mechanism for how epilepsy develops in some individuals.
Patients with vertebral compression fractures experience prolonged intense pain, with over two-thirds reporting severe pain one year after injury. Current treatment and advice are deemed insufficient, requiring revised approaches to improve patient outcomes.
Prototype systems performed surprisingly well in NIST tests, with half accurate at least 80% of the time. The technology frees up time for trained examiners to focus on difficult images that software has limited capabilities to process.
Research suggests a link between vitamin D insufficiency and increased asthma severity in children, including hospitalizations, airway reactivity, and use of inhaled steroids. Vitamin D levels were inversely linked to several indicators of allergy and asthma severity.