A study has found that divers who hold their breath for several minutes have elevated levels of the protein S100B, which can signal brain damage. However, these levels are temporary and it remains unclear whether prolonged apnea can cause long-term brain damage.
A recent study suggests that Khmer Rouge trials may exacerbate post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms in Cambodian survivors. The trial's impact on mental health is uncertain, as some respondents believe the trials will revive painful memories.
A new study published in CMAJ found that hip and back fractures in people aged 50 and older significantly increase mortality rates. Approximately 25% of individuals who develop a hip fracture and 16% who develop a spine fracture will die within 5 years.
A new index, Nutrient-Rich Foods Index (NRF), provides a scientifically-backed measure of nutrient quality in foods and beverages. This approach aims to empower individuals to make informed choices and build a healthier diet by focusing on nutrient-dense options.
Researchers investigated deet's mode of action and toxicity, finding it inhibits the activity of a key central nervous system enzyme, acetycholinesterase, in both insects and mammals. This discovery questions the safety of deet, particularly when used with other chemicals.
Researchers are developing a new technique using human stem cells to study ALS, reducing the need for animal experiments. Dr Vasanta Subramanian will use Induced Pluripotent Stem cells (iPS cells) from adult skin cells to analyze genes causing the disease.
A recent study published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal found that approximately 25% of men and women who develop hip fractures will die within five years, as well as 16% of those with spine fractures. The study also highlights the importance of fall prevention strategies, osteoporosis medications, and rehabilitation to re...
The University of California, Riverside has released a new mandarin citrus variety called DaisySL, which is sweet to eat and bears very few seeds. Developed by Mikeal Roose and Timothy Williams, the fruit is finely textured and juicy with a rich flavor, making it a promising addition to commercial production.
Studies reveal that certain insects can mimic the scent of ants to avoid detection, while pitcher plants' bright colors do not attract prey. Specialists caterpillars also outperform generalists in avoiding predators due to better adaptation to their host plant resources.
A new study finds that while most Cambodians believe the Khmer Rouge trials will deliver justice, over 87% of people who experienced torture during the regime say the trials will rekindle painful memories. The trial's impact on mental health is still unknown.
A new study found that positron emission tomography (PET) can accurately depict the extent of neuroblastoma in some patients, especially those with early-stage disease. FDG-PET imaging may also be useful in identifying malignant lesions not readily absorbable by MIBG.
UCLA researchers developed a microchip technology that performs over 1,000 chemical reactions simultaneously, accelerating the identification of potential drug candidates for treating diseases like cancer. The technology uses in situ click chemistry and mass spectrometry to analyze results, reducing reagent consumption and lab time.
A twin study examines associations between depression and coronary artery disease, finding that depression risk increases after diagnosis, especially in men. The long-term effect of coronary artery disease on depression risk is also significant.
Researchers at VCU have discovered a new approach to eliminate aggressive melanoma cells by triggering self-destruction through programmed cell death, potentially leading to improved treatment strategies for cancer patients.
A 2007 legal interpretation of the Endangered Species Act could lead to fewer species being listed for protection, resulting in reduced conservation efforts. Researchers warn that this policy sets the stage for 'wilderness zoos,' which would erode habitats and threaten endangered species.
A recent nationwide study found a 150% increase in PE class-related injuries to elementary, middle and high school students in the United States between 1997 and 2007. The most common injuries were lower-extremity sprains and strains, with middle school-aged children accounting for the majority of cases.
A recent study found that digital mammography significantly increases breast cancer detection rates, outperforming film-screen technology. The switch led to a notable rise in cancers detected at San Luis Diagnostic Center, averaging 7.9 cancers per 1,000 women imaged.
A study published in Neurology found that engaging in brain-exercising activities such as reading and playing card games can delay the onset of rapid memory loss in people with dementia. Participants who engaged in more activities experienced a slower decline in cognitive function.
Research shows that individuals tend to overestimate their ability to control impulses, leading to a greater likelihood of indulging in impulsive or addictive behavior. The study found that people in a 'cold state' underestimate the influence of impulsive states on their behavior.
A study of Bangladeshi women with young children found that those who experienced intimate partner violence were more likely to report respiratory infections and diarrhea in their children. The authors suggest that trauma and anxiety from violent households can lead to suppressed immune systems, increasing the risk of illness.
A study published in The Lancet recommends inducing labor at 37 weeks for pregnant women with mild hypertensive disorders like gestational hypertension or mild pre-eclampsia. This approach reduces the risk of poor maternal outcomes, severe hypertension, HELLP syndrome, and caesarean sections.
A new study reveals that children living in three-generation households with a grandparent are substantially less likely to live below or near the poverty line. Grandparents' contributions to household income, including cash transfers and Social Security income, play a crucial role in easing financial difficulties.
Researchers have discovered a gene signature in breast cancer stem cells that could be used to develop new drugs. The study found that this gene signature is enriched in human breast tumors after hormone treatment, making it a promising target for therapeutic intervention.
A clinical trial of kefir in young children using antibiotics found no benefit in preventing diarrhea. However, the study suggests that kefir may help healthier children, and more research is needed to confirm this finding.
Researchers have discovered a key link between protein CCKR2 and progastrin-related colonic hyperproliferation. Deletion of the Cck2r gene in mice with human progastrin overexpression abolished colonic hyperproliferation and reduced colorectal cancer, suggesting CCKR2 as a viable target for treatment.
Researchers found that blocking octopaminergic and dopaminergic neurons prevents crickets from recalling rewarding or punishing stimuli. This suggests a 'cognitive' account of classical conditioning applicable to insects.
A groundbreaking clinical trial has shown that exercise can significantly improve symptoms of fatigue and depression, increase cardiovascular endurance, and maintain quality of life for adult leukemia patients undergoing treatment. The study demonstrated a substantial reduction in total fatigue and depression scores, as well as improve...
Researchers found that increased IgM excretion in diabetic nephropathy patients is associated with higher mortality from cardiovascular causes and faster disease progression. This biomarker may offer a new approach to manage the condition.
Researchers found that combination therapies tailored to patient prognosis improved patient outcomes and increased five-year, disease-free survival rates. Prophylactic cranial irradiation was shown to significantly decrease the risk for brain metastases in NSCLC patients.
Peter Wilf, a renowned paleobotanist, has been awarded the prestigious Distinguished Speaker honor by the Paleontological Society. His research on ancient plants and terrestrial ecosystems will be showcased through three lectures, shedding light on biodiversity, climate change, and extinction.
A new study published in the Journal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons recommends low to moderate exercise for pregnant women, despite past concerns. Exercise can strengthen musculoskeletal and physiologic health, ease back pain, and improve post-partum mood.
Duchenne muscular dystrophy patients lack the protein dystrophin, which protects muscle cells by connecting to filament types. The new study reveals microtubules become disorganized when dystrophin is missing, contributing to devastating symptoms.
The 'super sensor' can detect pathogens, pollution, and disease biomarkers with high precision, making it suitable for various environments and situations. The device's potential applications include early warning systems for heart attacks, detecting pollutants in drinking water, and monitoring pesticides in organic food.
A team of researchers at the University of Minnesota has developed a new, energy-efficient method for chemical separations using zeolite membranes. This breakthrough could significantly reduce the energy used in producing biofuels, such as ethanol and butanol, and enable higher production rates.
A study by Johns Hopkins Medicine found that long-term memory losses and cognitive problems after bypass surgery are caused by coronary artery disease, not the heart-lung machine. Researchers discovered significant cognitive decline in patients with no use of heart-lung devices.
A team of Indian and American researchers used computers to extract patterns in ancient Indus symbols, creating a statistical model for the unknown language. The study provides insights into the underlying grammatical structure of the Indus script.
A recent study found a strong association between sedentary behaviors like TV viewing and screen time, and elevated blood pressure in children. The researchers discovered that the risk was present even after adjusting for age, sex, height, and percentage of body fat.
Researchers review prophylactic treatment with neuraminidase inhibitors for seasonal flu prevention, finding them effective in preventing symptomatic but not asymptomatic flu. Improved hand hygiene and face masks implemented within 36 hours of symptom onset also show promise in reducing household transmission of pandemic flu.
A study found that many coronary angioplasty procedures in developing countries exceed the known dose reference level, highlighting the need for patient dose estimations and management. The research aims to introduce these concepts to interventional radiologists and cardiologists in these countries.
The rate of antidepressant treatment increased significantly in the US between 1996 and 2005, from 5.84% to 10.12%, affecting racial and ethnic minorities at lower rates, with 18-69 year olds being most likely to use these medications
A study found that nearly two-thirds of parents reported needing to watch over their child's care to prevent medical errors, with parents who speak non-English languages being more concerned. Parents' confidence in communicating with physicians was linked to lower levels of concern about medical mistakes.
Researchers at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia have identified an immune mechanism responsible for graft failure in a mouse model of IUHCT. Maternal alloantibodies, produced in response to IUHCT, trigger a postnatal immune response that limits engraftment following in utero hematopoietic cell transplantation. This finding opens the...
Researchers at EMBL and University of Heidelberg create fluorescent probe to quantify MMP12 activity in macrophages, allowing study of emphysema development. The test has potential as biomarker for disease evolution and therapeutic intervention monitoring.
Researchers found that Relenza and Tamiflu equally prevent common flu symptoms in uninfected individuals, but data on vulnerable groups is lacking. The two drugs may also help combat oseltamivir-resistant influenza, but their effectiveness in preventing transmission among asymptomatic carriers is unknown.
Research suggests preschool depression is a continuous, chronic condition that increases the likelihood of subsequent depression and psychiatric disorders. Early intervention during the preschool period may be crucial in addressing childhood major depressive disorder.
A school-based program that integrates healthy relationship information into the curriculum appears to reduce adolescent dating violence and increase condom use. The effects of the low-cost intervention are stronger in boys. Rates of physical dating violence were greater in control students than those who participated in the program.
Researchers discover HYLS1 is a centriolar protein required for cilia formation in humans, linking hydrolethalus syndrome to the emerging class of human ciliopathies. The study expands knowledge on human ciliopathy diseases, providing insights into severe birth defects and early neonatal death.
Researchers are exploring the use of anti-growth factor drugs to treat children's eye diseases, offering a new tool in the fight against vision loss. However, specialists warn that these drugs may pose serious side effects, particularly in young patients.
Researchers at the University of Washington developed nanoparticles that cross the blood-brain barrier, illuminating brain tumors and improving MRI and optical imaging. This breakthrough could lead to more precise surgery and earlier cancer detection.
Heidelberg researchers discovered processes in brain metabolism that explain anorexic patients' rigid behavior, suggesting new therapy approaches. The study's results contribute to a better understanding of anorexia and its neurobiological factors.
Researchers at the La Jolla Institute have identified a previously unknown role of an enzyme in suppressing tumor growth, which may lead to new treatments for myeloproliferative diseases and certain types of leukemia. The discovery could also provide insights into the mechanisms underlying blood cancers.
Researchers found a distinct 'DNA signature' in human sperm, which recognizes an egg's species-specific DNA, enabling fertilization. This discovery explains male infertility and pregnancy failures.
Ten exceptional health professionals have been selected as Robert Wood Johnson Foundation Health Policy Fellows for the 2009-2010 program. They will utilize their wide range of experience to provide health policy leadership on Capitol Hill, impacting health reform directly.
Reducing short-distance car trips by promoting walking and cycling can decrease car accidents, reduce heat-trapping pollutants, and promote physical health and activity. Community leaders can use low-cost options to encourage people to get active, with examples including city-bike sharing, customized maps, and grassroots campaigns.
Researchers at Stanford's School of Medicine identified human bladder cancer stem cells and revealed how they work to escape the body's natural defenses. The discovery may be a valuable therapeutic target for many types of cancers.
New vaccines, drug regimens, and diagnostics under development have the potential to significantly impact tuberculosis. The study predicts a 39-52% decrease in TB incidence through vaccination, while new drug regimens could reduce incidence by 10-27%. Diagnostic tools may also contribute to improved outcomes.
Scientists at IRB Barcelona have identified the mechanism that protects somatic cells against germ cell behavior, allowing for proper separation of future ovules and sperm during embryonic development. This finding has implications for understanding diseases caused by failed repression mechanisms.
A study involving UT Southwestern plastic surgeons found that Dysport is most effective in women and African-American patients, while also being longer-lasting for this demographic. The study confirms the importance of tailoring dosages to individual facial muscle mass for optimal results.
Researchers found that quality after-school programs are essential for children's physical activity, but many lack adequate nutrition and physical activity. The HOP'N After-School Project improved physical activity levels by modifying existing activities to include more moderate-to-vigorous exercise.
Fish populations are being increasingly affected by emerging diseases, exacerbated by climate change and other stresses. As a result, population fluctuations, extinction, reduced health, and increased susceptibility to predation are expected, according to Dr. Jim Winton of the USGS Western Fisheries Research Center.