A Johns Hopkins study of 40 hospitals and 160,000 patients found that 'paperless' hospitals with computerized notes and records had a 15% decrease in patient deaths. These systems also showed significant reductions in complications, heart attack deaths, and hospital costs.
A study found that increased use of health information technology (HIT) in hospitals led to fewer patient deaths, complications, and lower healthcare costs. The use of electronic notes, order entry, and clinical decision support systems was associated with significant reductions in mortality rates.
Biomedical engineers at UT Health Science Center are developing a 'fracture putty' that could regenerate bones and reduce the need for amputations. The putty, made from nanoporous silicon, aims to mimic bone structure and function, allowing patients to regain full use of their limbs in a shorter period.
Researchers discovered seven new genetic variants that increase the risk of psoriasis, clustering in pathways involving IL-23 and NF-kappaB. The absence of skin genes LCE3B and LCE3C also increases the risk of the disease, suggesting an inappropriate immune response.
A clinical trial found adult mask wearers were four times more likely to be protected against respiratory viruses. Masks are particularly important during pandemics when vaccine development is delayed and supplies may be scarce for frontline workers.
New data suggests that certain glucocorticoids, such as corticosterone, may be less harmful to fetal brain development than others like dexamethasone. This finding has significant implications for treating preterm infants and reducing the risk of cerebral palsy and cognitive impairment.
A new study in Journal of Consumer Research finds that gifts from family members have great symbolic value, treated with care, and become surrogate family members. Families sustain their heritage by imposing hierarchies on assets, expanding our understanding of inalienable wealth.
Research by University of Pennsylvania economists finds the American population as a whole is no happier than it was three decades ago, but happiness inequality has narrowed significantly. The study found that non-whites report being significantly happier than they were in the early 1970s, while whites are slightly less happy.
Researchers developed a model explaining how consumers categorize new hybrid products, finding that activation flows through category structures. The Category Activation Model predicts positioning a new subcategory under relevant parent categories with many subcategories connected
The US research vessel JOIDES Resolution has been completely refurbished for IODP expeditions, enhancing its capability for cutting-edge research into Earth's past climate and biosphere. The ship will help improve scientific understanding of natural hazards, methane hydrates, and future sea levels.
A study in the Journal of Consumer Research found that consumers are drawn to products near a winning streak, regardless of whether luck actually plays a role. This phenomenon, known as 'contagiousness,' influences product choice and advertising persuasiveness.
The university will develop an informatics infrastructure to collect, manage and analyze diverse data types across institutions. This project aims to improve collaboration and sharing of information between investigators, leading to new approaches for screening, diagnosing and treating illnesses.
Researchers discover that subtle manipulations like using non-dominant hands can lower self-confidence, but purchasing products or affirming unrelated values can restore it. Participants who chose healthier options after being shaken out of their confidence were more likely to have been given the opportunity to bolster their self-view.
A randomized controlled trial studied 700 critically ill patients aged under one year and 1-16 years, finding that intensive insulin treatment reduced mortality by 3% and intensive care stay by 5.5 days compared to conventional insulin treatment.
A new catalyst has been developed that can efficiently oxidize ethanol and produce clean energy in fuel cell reactions. This breakthrough could make ethanol-powered fuel cells a viable alternative to hydrogen-based systems.
A new study explores the phenomenon of consuming past expiration dates, finding that owning a product increases its valuation. Consumers are more likely to eat or drink expired food at home than in stores, despite lower perceived risk.
Scientists have successfully reprogrammed human induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells into the cells that eventually become eggs and sperm. This breakthrough may lead to new treatments for infertility using patient-specific cells. However, further research is needed to determine if iPS-derived germ cells can correctly regulate themselves.
Researchers at Brookhaven National Laboratory discovered plant-associated bacteria that can improve plant growth on marginal land, increasing biomass and carbon sequestration. The findings have implications for sustainable biofuel production without competing with food crops or agricultural land.
A new study reveals that offering parity information in ads can enhance brand evaluation, especially when presented consistently with the audience's goal orientation. The effectiveness depends on the consumer's mindset and purchasing goals.
A new study by Thomas P. Novak and Donna L. Hoffman found that consumers approach problems with either rational or experiential thinking styles. Rational thinking is characterized as logical, effortful, and analytical, while experiential thinking is associative, lower-effort, and holistic.
A study by the University of Wisconsin-Madison found that early childhood stress can have long-lasting effects on kids' health, including impaired immune function. Adolescents who experienced physical abuse or time in an orphanage showed higher levels of antibodies against herpes simplex virus type 1.
A study by Wajahat Mehal and colleagues found that aspirin reduces liver damage caused by acetaminophen overdose. In contrast, glucocorticoid therapy may cause varying levels of brain injury in neonates, depending on the type of steroid used. These findings have important implications for treatment strategies.
Researchers have identified a diagnostic biomarker SPOP that can accurately detect clear cell renal cell carcinoma, the most common type of kidney cancer. The study found that 99% of clear cell RCC samples showed elevated SPOP levels, making it a highly sensitive and specific diagnostic tool.
Expert authors advocate for a US foreign policy agenda focused on eliminating neglected tropical diseases, citing connections between NTDs and conflict. The control of these devastating diseases could be achieved at a fraction of the cost of other medical interventions.
A study by Bertini et al. found that consumers favorably perceive products with add-ons, particularly those improving existing features, while negative impressions of optional upgrades lead to more favorable ratings. Conversely, participants tend to like downgrades over no add-ons at all.
A new study published in Medical Care Research and Review found that even short gaps in health coverage can significantly decrease the likelihood of a child receiving medical care. The study suggests improving enrollment retention in SCHIP, Medicaid, and private coverage to ensure children maintain access to necessary healthcare.
A study published in Nature Medicine suggests that statin drugs can stabilize blood vessels and prevent leaks in people with cerebral cavernous malformation (CCM). The disease, which affects an estimated 1.5 million people in the US, has no known drug therapy and often requires brain surgery or radiation treatment.
Researchers at Rockefeller University Press have uncovered a mechanism that limits centriole duplication, allowing cells to fashion extra centrioles only once per cell cycle. This discovery could lead to the development of new cancer treatments by restricting tumor cells' ability to replicate centrioles.
The NIH has awarded three contracts for pilot projects to improve informatics support for researchers conducting small- to medium-sized clinical studies. The projects will enhance collaboration and data sharing across institutions, enabling faster translation of basic research into treatments.
A study found that consumers desire more genetic testing for life-altering conditions such as mental retardation, blindness, and cancer, but are less interested in prenatal testing for traits like superior intelligence or athletic ability. The study suggests that consumers prioritize screening for diseases over enhancements.
The Lancet emphasizes the importance of a competitive merit-based selection process for the new PEPFAR head. Key qualifications include visionary leadership, global health expertise, and experience in collaboration with various stakeholders.
Researchers at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory discovered a new class of small RNAs that regulate gene expression by acting as 'off' switches at specific sites. The study also reveals a strikingly novel biochemical pathway for RNA processing, which may have significant implications for understanding human disease.
A new editorial emphasizes the need to address the devastating impact of rape as a weapon of war, citing conflicts in the DRC, Burma, Sudan, and former Yugoslavia. The PLoS Medicine editors argue that medical journalists and editors can draw attention to this issue, influencing support for humanitarian organizations and advocacy groups.
A new study in Journal of Consumer Research found that materialism and death anxiety are linked to brand loyalty. Materialistic consumers experience a stronger connection to brands when death anxiety is high, using them as a source of symbolic security.
A new study in the Journal of Consumer Research found that people's level of desire to think analytically about choices (NFC) and cognitive load significantly impact their use of mental shortcuts when making product selections. Researchers identified two factors that can lead consumers to use heuristics, including NFC and cognitive load.
A Texas study shows that hospitals with automated health information systems have fewer complications, lower death rates, and reduced costs. The research found that increased automation of clinical information systems was associated with a 15% decrease in in-hospital deaths for patients with heart attacks.
A new study supports a University of Houston professor's theory that blocking the beta-2 adrenoreceptor receptor instead of stimulating it could be a safer and more effective strategy for long-term asthma management. The research, published in PNAS, reveals that a mouse model without the key gene produces fewer asthma-like symptoms.
New research reveals that white eyes in the Zosteropidae family form new species at a faster rate than any other bird, with the fastest known rate among birds being around 2.24-3.16 species per million years. This supports the 'Great Speciator' hypothesis, suggesting intrinsic traits of sociability and adaptability drive the system.
Overdoses of acetaminophen lead to two waves of liver cell destruction and immune system activation. Aspirin is found to downregulate pro-inflammatory cytokine production, providing substantial protection from acetaminophen-induced liver damage.
The 'chain of survival' improved out-of-hospital cardiac arrest survival rates in Japan by increasing bystander CPR, early defibrillator use, and advanced life support. The study found a significant decrease in delay times and an increase in neurologically intact survivors.
Researchers found that these diet pills contain a range of addictive substances, including amphetamines, benzodiazepines, and diuretics. Physicians are advised to be aware of the dangers of these imported diet pills, which can cause serious side effects such as chest pains, palpitations, and insomnia.
A comprehensive analysis confirms that Placozoans are the most primitive non-bilateral animals, with a genome that shares key tools for nervous system development. This challenges traditional views of animal evolution, placing Placozoans as the closest living surrogate to the ancestor of all animals.
A new study found that patients starting rasagiline earlier experienced less progression of Parkinson's disease symptoms and signs, including rigidity and activities of daily living. The long-term study showed a 16% less progression in the early-start group compared to those who delayed treatment for six months.
Researchers at Tel Aviv University have refined breast cancer identification using a combination of MRI and ultrasound, allowing for earlier detection and personalized treatment. The new approach measures metabolism rates of cancer cells, helping determine which tumors will metastasize and how they should be treated.
A Yale study suggests simple aspirin can prevent liver damage from common drug side effects, alcohol abuse, and obesity-related diseases. The study found that aspirin reduced mortality caused by an overdose of acetaminophen and blocked inflammation pathways.
A recent study published in Current Biology found that anatomists and others incorrectly depict quadruped walking in half of their depictions. The correct gait involves alternating legs, with animals differing only in timing. This mistake is often due to carelessness or reliance on incorrect models.
A study of 153,268 TB patients in the US found that substance abuse is a significant modifiable behavior impeding TB elimination efforts. Substance abusers were more likely to have contagious forms of TB and experience treatment failure compared to non-abusers.
Researchers have created gene-engineered male flies that die as embryos, outcompeting wild pests and reducing crop damage. This new method of pest control eliminates the need for radiation, increasing safety and effectiveness.
Prolonged loop diuretic use was linked to increased fracture risk in postmenopausal women, but not to bone mineral density changes or falls. The study suggests that fracture prevention measures may be necessary for women on loop diuretic therapy.
A new study published in the Journal of Consumer Research found that people who deliberately weigh their options make less accurate judgments than those who trust their instincts. In five separate studies, researchers found that complex decisions led to decreased effectiveness of deliberation.
Researchers at Uppsala University identified fast-evolving human genes with patterns of molecular evolution not driven by natural selection. Instead, biased gene conversion (BGC) speeds up the rate of evolution in certain genes, fixing harmful mutations.
The study found that popularity and likelihood of friends knowing one another are heritable, while location within the network is also genetically linked. This suggests that genes may play a significant role in determining our social connections and behavior.
A Stanford study establishes a method for projecting future kidney function, which could improve transplant outcomes for older kidneys. The research found that older kidneys perform only 70% as well as younger ones and contain fewer functioning glomeruli.
A study by Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health identified key risk factors that delayed or prolonged the evacuation from the World Trade Center Towers on September 11. The researchers found that lack of awareness and experience, as well as personal concerns and poor footwear, contributed to time delays.
A comprehensive review of nearly 900 studies on statin side effects reveals a spectrum of reported issues, from muscle problems to cognitive decline. The study also highlights the link between mitochondrial dysfunction and increased risk of adverse effects.
A recent study identified four new DNA 'hotspots' linked to psoriasis, an autoimmune disease that causes scaling and inflammation. The study also confirmed the association of two previously identified sites with psoriasis, revealing potential genetic markers for the disease.
A randomized clinical trial involving sedentary obese older adults found that a combination of resistance and aerobic exercises improved insulin resistance and functional limitations. The study showed greater improvements with combined exercise compared to individual types of exercise.
A new study found that increasing potassium intake and reducing sodium consumption can significantly lower the risk of cardiovascular disease. Researchers analyzed 24-hour urine samples from over 2,900 participants and discovered a strong correlation between the ratio of sodium-to-potassium in urine and cardiovascular disease.
A study published in Journal of the American Geriatrics Society suggests that certain medications may be associated with cognitive decline in older adults. The research found that chronic use of medications with anticholinergic properties can lead to memory difficulties and impaired daily functioning.
African HIV patients achieve near-perfect adherence rates due to prioritizing treatment to maintain social relationships and ensure future support. This contrasts with North American rates, where individualistic values may hinder adherence success.
A gene variant has been linked to an increased risk of developing brain tumors at a younger age, with 20.6% of young people with glioblastoma multiforme having the Pro/Pro variant of the TP53 gene compared to 5.9% of healthy participants.
A new study has identified certain patient and tumor characteristics that may indicate which breast cancer patients are at high risk of developing contralateral breast cancer. These include histologic invasive characteristics, multiple quadrants affected, and a high Gail risk score or age over 50 at diagnosis.
Scientists at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory and the University of Illinois have determined the temperature at which helium becomes insoluble in dense metallic hydrogen. This finding has significant implications for models of the interior structure and evolution of Jovian planets, including Saturn and Jupiter.
Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center identified a compound that liberates cholesterol trapped in cells, shedding light on its transport and suggesting a possible therapeutic target for NP-C disease. The findings show improved liver function and decreased neurodegeneration in mice treated with the compound.
Climate change and sea ice fluctuations threaten emperor penguin populations, with a median colony size predicted to decline from 3,000 to 400 breeding pairs. The probability of drastic decline is at least 40%, putting the species at risk of extinction.
Researchers studying astronauts on the International Space Station found a greater rate of bone deterioration than previously thought. Astronauts experienced an average loss of 14% hipbone strength, comparable to those with osteoporosis.
Shoulder injuries accounted for 8% of all injuries in high school athletes, with boys experiencing higher rates than girls. Player-to-player contact was associated with nearly 60% of shoulder injuries across sports.
Researchers from Université de Montréal have detected chemotherapy products and hypertension/cholesterol medications in wastewater released into the St. Lawrence River. The study highlights a growing concern about pharmaceutical waste's impact on the environment, with minimal quantities of these substances present in treated water.
A study of over 800 men found that those who were very sexually active in their twenties and thirties were more likely to develop prostate cancer, especially if they masturbated frequently. However, the risks diminished with age, particularly in a man's fifties.
A study of third-graders found that daily recess improved classroom behavior, social development, and health. Children who received more recess behaved better and were likely to learn more.
Researchers have discovered that the innate immune system's natural killer cells can learn from experience and fight more effectively when called into battle a second time. This new ability, known as 'memory-like,' was found in natural killer cells that could respond more easily and vigorously to reactivation.
A recent study from the University of Michigan found that six million US children have unmet medical needs, with uninsured and underinsured children at highest risk. The study highlights the need for targeted initiatives to address both coverage and access to improve healthcare outcomes for vulnerable children.
Researchers at UAB found that children who use cell phones while crossing streets are more likely to exhibit risky behaviors, including taking longer to cross and looking both ways less often. The study's findings highlight the need for parents and caregivers to limit cell phone use in child pedestrians.
A new study by Nicole Votolato Montgomery and H. Rao Unnava found that consumers tend to favor vacations with improved outcomes over those with worsened outcomes when evaluated immediately, but reverse preferences emerge after a delay.
A new study reveals that non-food factors such as swimming and private well water exposure pose significant risks for sporadic bacterial enteric infections, comparable to food-borne risk factors. The findings highlight the importance of controlling these environmental exposures to prevent outbreaks.
The new journal Genomic Medicine bridges the gap between research and clinical practice, providing open access to high-quality research articles. The journal features columns by leading experts on genomic medicine and its applications.
Researchers have demonstrated that gene therapy can reduce pain and swelling in patients with advanced rheumatoid arthritis. The therapy involves implanting a normal gene to compensate for a defective gene, resulting in lower amounts of disease-related proteins and reduced symptoms.
New research published today disproves the recent comet impact theory that triggered continent-wide wildfires in North America 12,900 years ago. The study found no evidence for large-scale fires across the continent but supports a link between global warming and increased wildfires globally.
A study by Rachel Smallman and Neal J. Roese found that people with positive preferences sort items into finer, more specific categories compared to those with negative preferences. This suggests that our likes can shape how we categorize information, particularly in consumer psychology where this can influence brand perceptions.