A study found that sorafenib dramatically improved the condition of rats with portal hypertension, reducing new blood vessel growth and improving liver function. The results suggest that sorafenib may be an effective therapeutic agent for treating advanced portal hypertension.
Research suggests that folate intake can have dual positive and negative effects, with adequate intake offering protection against cancer but excessive amounts facilitating tumor growth. The optimal level of folate intake varies depending on the individual's specific circumstances, highlighting the need for tailored guidelines.
A recent study highlights the importance of prompt medical intervention in combat injuries, where timely surgical care can significantly improve survival rates. Orthopaedic surgeons are at the forefront of this effort, providing treatment as soon as possible to prevent further damage and promote optimal function.
Autism Speaks announces partnerships with Albania and Ireland to enhance public awareness and develop sustainable autism programs. The organization aims to investigate causes, prevention, and treatments for autism spectrum disorders globally.
Dr. Jonathan Berg received the inaugural Richard King Trainee Award for his publication on microduplications in the 22q11.2 region. The award recognizes the utility of array CGH technology in identifying genomic imbalances and its impact on defining molecular etiology and clinical phenotypes.
A new study examines the role of killer cell immunoglobulin-like receptors (KIR) genotypes in hepatitis C virus recurrence after liver transplantation and finds that mismatched KIR-HLA-C ligands increase the risk of fibrosis progression.
Researchers at UCI found that blocking melanin-concentrating hormone (MCH) in the brain's pleasure center limits cocaine cravings. MCH works with dopamine to create an addictive response to cocaine use. By targeting MCH, new treatments may help break addiction to cocaine and possibly other drugs.
A study of 305 UK companies found that those operating in countries with poor human rights gave significantly more to charity, potentially to offset negative perceptions. The findings support the strategic role of corporate charitable giving in boosting international reputation.
A University at Buffalo study reveals that two oral pathogens, but the total number of germs, are associated with an increased risk of heart attack. The study found that patients harbored more periodontal bacteria than controls, and that an increase in the number of different species also elevated heart attack odds.
A study published in the Journal of the American Dietetic Association found that vegetarians, especially adolescents and young adults, are at a higher risk of binge eating and extreme weight-control behaviors. However, current vegetarians tend to eat healthier diets and have a lower risk of obesity.
A new study suggests that balancing two types of estrogen and a hormone in the placenta can signal labor. Researchers found that when estradiol (E2) and estriol (E3) are in balance, there is no drive to labor, but an imbalance leads to the onset of labor.
Researchers developed a test to detect early evidence of amblyopia in infants with hemangiomas of eyelids, which can lead to permanent reductions in vision. The 'sweep visual evoked potential vernier acuity' test identified abnormal brainwave responses in the eyes affected by hemangiomas.
A study published in the Journal of Nuclear Medicine found that myocardial perfusion testing with gated single photon emission computed tomography (gated SPECT) is a more accurate predictor of prognosis in chronic ischemic heart disease. Gated SPECT identified individuals at risk for future cardiac events, enabling early initiation of ...
Scientists investigate possible tectonic cycling of serpentized peridotites in the Mariana forearc, connect Saddle Mountain and Seattle faults, and improve fractured carbonate-reservoir characterization with remote sensing. Seismic reflection profiles also define Grenville-age rift system and foreland basins beneath Phanerozoic sediments.
Dr. Kathy M. Chun, Director of Cytogenetics and Molecular Genetics at North York General Hospital, is the recipient of the 2009 Signature Genomic Laboratories Travel Award. The award recognizes outstanding young researchers in medical genetics and covers travel costs to the ACMG meeting.
From 2001-2008, the annual number of Ph.D.s awarded to underrepresented minorities increased by 50% in natural sciences and engineering fields. The Alliances for Graduate Education and the Professoriate program has seen significant success in boosting minority participation in science-related studies.
Early diagnosis and treatment of achondroplasia's manifestations can produce better outcomes for patients later in life. This includes addressing stenosis of the foramen magnum and thoracolumbar kyphosis, which can cause developmental delays and spinal deformities.
Duke University researchers developed a light-based system to analyze tumor oxygen levels, helping oncologists choose effective treatments. The system uses diffuse reflectance spectroscopy and can provide immediate feedback during biopsies.
Researchers found that hemofiltration reduced ECMO duration by 30 hours and fluid balance per day, leading to significant cost savings. The treatment also decreased the need for blood transfusions.
Researchers used probiotics to protect animals from diseases such as mastitis and salmonellosis, demonstrating their potential to prevent and treat human diseases. The study identified specific bacterial species and mechanisms of action that could lead to the development of new treatments.
A new study funded by the Canadian Cancer Society has found that childhood cancer survivors, especially those diagnosed with brain tumours, experience poor educational achievement and learning difficulties. This is linked to late effects of treatment and can impact future educational performance and career prospects.
A study by University of Washington psychologists explores the effects of interacting with technological nature on human connections with nature. The researchers found that while technological nature can provide some benefits, it lacks the depth and social connections offered by natural interactions.
The study found a 95.4% patient satisfaction rate for LASIK procedures, confirming its status as a successful elective surgery. In contrast, patients who used combined inhaled and oral steroids were found to have an elevated risk of developing cataracts, particularly posterior subcapsular cataract.
A new test for invasive aspergillosis (IA) has been developed to detect the deadly fungal infection in patients with damaged or suppressed immune systems. The test uses a monoclonal antibody that binds to a glycoprotein antigen secreted by Aspergillus species, distinguishing it from similar molecules found in antibiotics and foodstuffs.
A novel injectable, OCR-002, directly reduces blood levels of ammonia, a toxic chemical building up during acute hepatic encephalopathy attacks. Clinical trials will begin in 2009 to develop the treatment for patients with advanced liver cirrhosis and acute liver failure.
Compassion fatigue is a syndrome experienced by healthcare providers caring for individuals facing dire consequences, leading to symptoms such as chronic tiredness, irritability, and lack of joy. The study highlights the need for better training and supportive work environments to prevent compassion fatigue.
A new study identifies a clinical prediction rule that can accurately predict patients most likely to benefit from measures to prevent recurrent C. difficile infection, which has become the leading known cause of hospital-acquired infectious diarrhea in developed countries.
A study published in SLEEP found that low-income patients with obstructive sleep apnea are less likely to start CPAP therapy, with odds of acceptance increasing by 140% for each increase in income level. Physicians can play a crucial role in improving CPAP adherence by providing education and support to patients and spouses.
Researchers found that naltrexone, an opiate receptor blocker, reduced the urges to steal and stealing behavior in individuals with kleptomania after eight weeks of treatment. The study suggests a potential link between kleptomania and substance addictions, highlighting the drug's efficacy in treating impulse control disorders.
Richard A. Ellis, a renowned STEM workforce researcher, has been recognized by IEEE-USA for his substantial and sustained contributions to improving understanding of science and engineering labor markets. His research focuses on STEM employment, enrollments, and degrees, as well as compensation and workforce trends.
Researchers at Wake Forest University School of Medicine discovered a protein called ferritin binds to HKa, promoting blood vessel formation that assists in tumor growth. The study suggests preventing the binding could block tumor growth, with implications for wound care.
Rutgers and Purdue universities will receive up to $30 million over six years to conduct research on information technologies for homeland security. The Rutgers team, led by DIMACS, will focus on data sciences, while Purdue's visualization sciences team will lead the other part of the center.
A UBC study has shown that different species of three-spine stickleback fish can significantly impact their aquatic ecosystems within 11 weeks. The researchers created mini-ecosystems in tanks with varying species and found substantial differences in dissolved organic carbon levels, affecting plant growth and sunlight penetration.
Researchers have found that underground water is a major sink for carbon dioxide in gas fields, storing it safely for millions of years. This breakthrough could improve the accuracy of computer models used for carbon capture and storage, a crucial approach to reducing atmospheric carbon dioxide levels.
A study found that chronic insomnia with short sleep duration is associated with a high risk of hypertension. Participants with severe short sleep duration had a 500% higher risk compared to those who slept more than six hours. The findings highlight the importance of diagnosis and treatment for people with insomnia.
The Genome Analysis Centre (TGAC) will analyse plant, animal, and microbial genomes to improve food security and combat exotic animal diseases. It will also develop new ways to kill superbugs and contribute to the UK's economic and social wellbeing.
A new NOAA report reveals widespread contamination of US coastal waters with Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers (PBDEs), a common flame retardant used in commercial goods since the 1970s. Elevated levels were found near urban and industrial centers, posing health concerns to humans and aquatic life.