Researchers at Ohio State University have developed a new technique to measure cosmic distances, extending the range to 300 million light years. They found that ultra long period cepheids (ULP cepheids) can serve as powerful distance indicators and provide insights into the evolution of very massive stars.
A new study by researchers at the University of Michigan Comprehensive Cancer Center found that women are under-represented in clinical cancer research, with only 37% of studies including adequate numbers of female participants. The study analyzed 661 prospective clinical studies with over 1 million total participants and found that st...
Researchers found that men working with their partners had the highest level of CPAP therapy adherence, while tactics like blame and fear did not increase treatment. Partner involvement was linked to improved emotional well-being and better adherence in male patients with obstructive sleep apnea.
Researchers found that high blood pressure, excessive weight, smoking, and diabetes significantly increased the size of the heart's left ventricle over short-term (4 years) and long-term (16 years) periods. These risk factors can be directly targeted for prevention and lowering may potentially lower heart failure burden.
A study found that many women with breast cancer use antioxidant supplements during treatment, which may have mixed effects on their health and survival. Researchers recommend further research to determine the impact of antioxidant supplementation on breast cancer outcomes.
Rates of diabetes among Ontario children rose by 3% per year from 1994 to 2004, according to an ICES study. The highest incidence rate was found in 10- to 14-year-olds, with genetic susceptibility and environmental factors like obesity contributing to the trend.
The study reveals that each bacterial strain presents a unique outer surface protein, rendering current vaccines less effective against new strains. Researchers believe a tip protein-based vaccine strategy could provide better protection.
A new study led by CU-Boulder found that only 11% of fuel-reduction activities took place within 1.5 miles of the wildland-urban interface, where fires pose the greatest risk to homes and people. The research suggests federal wildfire treatments are minimally effective at mitigating wildfire threat.
University of Alberta researcher Morris Flynn uses mathematical formulas to calculate the severity of phantom traffic jams on highways with various speed limits and traffic volumes. His research reveals that phantom traffic jams can start with only a handful of vehicles but quickly grow in scale and severity.
A recent study found that less than four percent of children and teens were diagnosed with a sleep disorder. The most common diagnoses included enuresis, sleep disordered breathing, and insomnia. Pediatricians are advised to ask about sleep during every well-child visit to ensure proper diagnosis and treatment.
A Purdue University study found that animals make complex decisions about choosing mates, considering multiple factors beyond major histocompatibility complex (MHC) genes. Tail length also plays a role in reproductive success, with larger males being more likely to be chosen as sires.
A recent phase II study found aleglitazar to be safe and well-tolerated, reducing HbA1c levels in patients with type 2 diabetes. The medication also showed a favorable lipid profile without significant cardiovascular risks.
A study presented at SLEEP 2009 found that active problem-solving strategies and goal-oriented schedules are associated with successful CPAP use for obstructive sleep apnea. Individuals who use these styles are more likely to adhere to therapy, especially when defined by frequent nightly usage.
A new lung cancer therapy employing a vaporized viral vector to deliver a cancer-inhibiting molecule directly to lung tissue shows early promise in mouse trials. The delivery of genes via aerosol holds promise for the treatment of a broad spectrum of pulmonary disorders.
Researchers successfully manipulate entangled states of four photons on a silicon chip, achieving precise control over the behavior of individual particles. This breakthrough has important implications for quantum computing and ultra-precise measurements, paving the way for advanced quantum technologies.
A new study published in Springer's journal Gender Issues highlights the significant problems faced by American boys, including lower literacy levels, higher drop-out rates, and increased rates of mental health issues. The research suggests that policy makers have largely neglected these issues, focusing instead on those affecting girls.
The woolly mammoth genome contains the largest proportion of interspersed repeats in mammals, with a single class accounting for nearly 12% of its genome. The findings support the hypothesis that these elements were acquired horizontally from another organism.
A new method uses celestial geometry and data on the sun, Earth, and moon's optical properties to create picture-perfect images of lunar eclipses. The tool can be used to study historical atmospheric phenomena and add a special effect to artistic representations.
A study found that white Americans report more EDS days per month than Asians, African Americans, and Hispanics. African Americans experience more severe EDS due to physical health factors, such as being overweight and having chronic diseases.
The Northeast Biodefense Center, a regional collaboration of major centers, will conduct interdisciplinary research on diagnostics, therapeutics, and vaccines to address emerging infectious diseases. The center has made significant contributions to global health, including the development of diagnostics for SARS and pandemic influenza.
A study from Northwestern University found that Cremophor-based paclitaxel caused life-threatening allergic reactions in 38% of patients, leading to 109 deaths. The solvent is believed to trigger severe reactions, even in patients with premedication.
Effective surveillance and clinician awareness are key to minimizing Lyme disease's impact, according to researchers. The disease is transmitted by ticks and can cause serious symptoms if left untreated.
Researchers at LSU Health Sciences Center found that children as young as 7 can exhibit early signs of diabetes, including poor insulin sensitivity and high insulin resistance. The study identified fat oxidation, blood pressure, and lipids as key predictors of insulin sensitivity in this age group.
Research led by UC San Diego experts suggests that REM sleep fosters creative problem-solving by stimulating associative networks. The study shows that REM directly enhances creative processing more than any other sleep or wake state, leading to significant improvements in performance.
Researchers at the University of Minnesota Medical School have successfully provided long-term expression of Factor VIII in hemophilia A mice using a new gene therapy approach, marking a promising step toward human clinical trials.
Researchers, particularly those in polar regions, are urged to examine and share ways to reduce their impact on the environment. By doing so, they can help create a better approach for understanding and adapting to climate change.
Researchers found that enzyme MuRF1 selectively degrades thick filaments in muscle, while thin filaments are bypassed. This ordered process enables the muscle to maintain its structure and function during atrophy.
A new study reveals that only heavy alcohol consumption above 5 drinks per day significantly raises the risk of chronic pancreatitis. Dose-dependent smoking also contributes to the risk, with smokers having more severe pancreatitis and longer smoking history.
Children and especially boys diagnosed with intermittent exotropia are more likely to develop mental illness by young adulthood compared to those without strabismus. A study of 183 children found that boys with the condition had a higher risk of developing mental health disorders, including suicidal ideation.
A new study found that prenatal multivitamin supplements significantly reduce the risk of babies with a low birth weight compared to iron-folic acid supplementation. The study suggests that micronutrients supplementation could avoid approximately 1.5 million low birth weight babies globally each year.
Research indicates that both long and short sleepers are at higher risk for developing diabetes. The adjusted odds ratio was 1.24 for short sleep (five hours per night or less) and 1.48 for long sleep (nine or more hours per night).
Researchers uncover molecular mechanism that enables tumor cells to attract new blood vessels continuously in the brain, even when oxygen is still abundant. The discovery could provide a basis for therapies targeting activated integrin alpha-vbeta3 to inhibit metastatic brain disease.
Researchers in France and Austria have created a strain of plant called MiMe, which produces genetically identical pollen and eggs through mitosis instead of meiosis. This breakthrough has the potential to simplify the creation of stable new mutant crops, paving the way for more efficient crop improvement and propagation.
Researchers found that sleep-restricted individuals gained an average of 1.31 kilograms over 11 days, contradicting expectations of increased appetite and cravings. The study suggests that energy intake exceeded energy expenditure during sleep restriction.
Researchers create framework to calculate environmental cost of travel, including power plants, train station upkeep and airport runway construction. A half-full Boston light railway is found to be as environmentally friendly as a midsize aircraft at 38% occupancy.
A new clinical trial found that starting antiretroviral therapy (ART) before CD4+ T cell counts drop below 200 cells/mm3 improves survival for HIV-infected adults. The study's results have the potential to change standard of care for HIV infection in dozens of countries.
Researchers create high-performance W-Band silicon-germanium RFICs for passive millimeter-wave imaging, potentially leading to less expensive security imaging systems. The new technology can resolve images down to a millimeter scale, enabling the detection of small objects on a person's body.
Researchers identified genetic regions responsible for animal tameness in a rat model of domestication. The study provides insight into the genetics and biology of tameness, potentially leading to more precise breeding strategies for tame animals.
The National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases has renewed funding for the 11 Regional Centers of Excellence, with a total of $455 million over five years. The centers will focus on developing countermeasures against emerging infectious diseases.
A study of 62 children aged 4-5 found that non-napping children exhibited higher levels of hyperactivity, anxiety, and depression compared to napping children. The research highlights the potential importance of napping for optimal daytime functioning in young children.
Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine have identified a key molecular pathway that regulates replication of pancreatic beta cells. Knocking out two cell cycle proteins leads to robust beta cell replication in mouse experiments.
A study of 2,500 elderly individuals found that those with moderate exercise habits, high education levels, and social engagement were more likely to retain their cognitive skills. These factors, which can be changed through lifestyle modifications, may help prevent or slow the onset of dementia.
Overweight individuals following a plant-based, low-carbohydrate diet experienced significant weight loss and improvements in blood cholesterol levels. This diet was more effective than a high-carbohydrate, low-fat vegetarian diet in reducing LDL-C levels and improving cardiovascular risk factors.
Most 'dark' gamma-ray bursts are found to be similar to normal bursts with an afterglow, but with nearly all visible light obscured by patchy dust. This suggests that gamma-ray bursts may help track star formation and death in distant galaxies.
Researchers at Uppsala University have identified a new enzyme necessary for DNA synthesis that can also erase DNA from bacterial chromosomes. By studying Salmonella mutants, they found that this enzyme plays a crucial role in spontaneous gene deletions, which can lead to the reduction of DNA content.
Middle-aged adults who sleep fewer hours are more likely to have high blood pressure and experience worsening blood pressure over time. The study, which included 578 adults, found that each hour of reduction in sleep duration was associated with a 37% increase in the odds of developing high blood pressure.
A recent study found that liraglutide significantly improves glycaemic control compared to exenatide, while also being better tolerated. Liraglutide reduces HbA1c levels by 1.12%, compared to 0.79% for exenatide, and promotes similar weight loss.
Researchers found that protein aggregates, previously thought to cause ALS, actually appear later on, increasing in number before symptoms appear. This discovery suggests a larger therapeutic window to treat the disease if diagnosed early.
A study by Northwestern University found that engineering students often perpetuate stereotypes of engineers as lone experts, leading to counterproductive practices such as solo work and procrastination. This can harm team-based projects and hinder workplace effectiveness.
Scientists at the University of Leeds and NASA have developed a new cleaning protocol to ensure that Earth-based microorganisms don't contaminate Mars samples. The protocol was tested on various sampling devices, including rover scoops and glacial ice core drills, and found to effectively remove detectable organic biosignatures.
A study by American Academy of Sleep Medicine finds that short sleep duration significantly increases the risk of obesity, particularly in black Americans, who have a 35% greater risk than whites. The study analyzed data from over 29,000 individuals and found that black Americans had a higher prevalence of both short sleep and obesity.
A Uppsala University research group has made a groundbreaking discovery that mycobacteria, the bacteria causing tuberculosis, can form spores. This finding challenges long-held beliefs and opens up new possibilities for understanding how these bacteria cause latent infections.
Researchers found that a combination of insulin and vitamin C stopped blood vessel damage caused by Type 1 diabetes in patients with poor glucose control. The therapy's effectiveness was proven in humans for the first time, offering hope for diabetic patients to avoid complications.
A large study found that television viewing is a dominant pre-sleep activity, accounting for nearly 50% of pre-bedtime. This can lead to reduced sleep time and increased health risks. Experts suggest limiting TV viewing before bedtime as a behavioral change to promote adequate sleep.
A study estimates that approximately 1.68 million US men over 50 years old suffer from dry eye disease, which increases with age and is associated with high blood pressure and certain medications. The prevalence of the condition rises significantly among older men, particularly those aged 75 and above.
Researchers found that snakes' belly scales provide a preferred direction of motion, making snake movement similar to wheels or ice skates. This study's findings contradict previous studies suggesting snakes push laterally against rocks and branches.
Researchers found that a five-minute self-regulation game can predict end-of-year achievement in math, literacy and vocabulary. The game was associated with the equivalent of several months of additional learning in kindergarten.
A comprehensive investigation into sea urchins' axial complex has shown that various internal organs are structurally linked. The study uses high-resolution imaging to analyze specimens from multiple orders, providing a re-evaluation of published studies spanning two centuries.
A University of Missouri researcher recommends increasing repetition learning and reducing 'fun' activities in US schools to help bridge the gap between natural human learning abilities and modern knowledge needs. This approach can improve students' performance in subjects like science and math.
A large Brandeis University-led study found that cardiac rehabilitation significantly reduces mortality rates among older adult patients with heart disease. The study showed a 19% lower risk of death for those attending more than 24 sessions, and the benefits were most pronounced in extreme elderly patients.
Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center used the fungus Neurospora to study the biochemistry and genetics of body clocks. They found that a protein called FRQ marks time by a sequence of changes in its chemical structure, which controls many biological processes including cell division, hormonal release, and sleep/wake cycles.
A new study by Rush University Medical Center researchers found that cognitive impairment is associated with reduced survival among both African-Americans and whites. The study, published in Archives of Neurology, showed that participants with mild cognitive impairment had a 50% increased risk of death compared to those without cogniti...
IDO enzyme can hinder flu vaccine efficacy by suppressing T-cell response, researchers say. The team plans to block IDO using inhibitors to build better vaccines.
A 700,000-year-old fossil bone bed in California has been found to be a record of normal life and death, rather than a catastrophic event. The bone bed, which features shark teeth and seal bones, was formed under unusual climatic conditions that kept sediment at bay.
A new study found that many breast cancer patients use antioxidant supplements, including high doses, during treatment. However, the effects on health and survival are poorly understood and the findings are mixed.
A recent study published in Archives of Neurology found that cognitive impairment is associated with reduced survival rates among both white and African American older adults. The research, which followed 1,715 participants over an average of 4.7 years, showed that individuals with mild cognitive impairment or Alzheimer's disease had s...
Women with MS who breastfeed exclusively for at least two months have a lower risk of relapse within a year after birth. Prolonged lactational amenorrhea is associated with a decreased risk of relapse in women with MS.
Researchers correct inaccuracies surrounding high fructose corn syrup's role in obesity and nutrition. They argue that the sweetener is essentially identical to sugar in terms of metabolism and calories.
A new study by North Carolina State University researchers found significant flaws in XBRL filings submitted voluntarily by top 500 companies. The study warns that if upcoming filings do not improve accuracy, the XBRL program's credibility will be undermined, affecting its effectiveness.
A recent study by Georgia State University researchers found that chimpanzees are cognitively able to understand trade but lack the ability to spontaneously barter without human enforcement. Humans, on the other hand, have a reputation system that fosters confidence in trade, which may be unique among primates.
Researchers develop gene therapy approach to target Factor VIII in hemophilia A mice, reducing disease symptoms. L-Asparaginase degradation mechanism also uncovered, with potential for optimizing treatment.
A set of fossil teeth belonging to an ancient three-toed browsing horse, Anchitherium clarencei, has been discovered in the Panama Canal earthworks. The find supports earlier proposals that the habitat was a mosaic of dense forest and open woodlands, extending the southern range of this horse species.
Researchers identified a protein capable of degrading a key leukemia treatment, L-asparaginase, in some patients. Expression of this protein is more common in high-risk forms of the disease and can lead to reduced treatment effectiveness.
A new review of cancer clinical trials reveals that women make up only 38.8% of patients enrolled, with a lower proportion in treatment-focused studies. Studies funded by government vs. private funds show a higher percentage of female participants.
Most dark gamma-ray bursts are found in normal galaxies that can be detected by large ground-based optical telescopes, contradicting previous theories. The study suggests that dark bursts may represent stars that never drifted far from the dusty clouds that formed them.
Using DNA barcoding and stable isotope analysis, researchers identified the species of birds involved in the Jan. 15 airline crash into the Hudson River as migratory Canada geese. The findings emphasize the need to understand the role of migration in birdstrikes to develop effective management strategies.
Researchers have identified caribou-hunting structures and camps used by early hunters in the Great Lakes region. The discovery sheds light on the Paleo-Indian and Archaic periods, which are poorly known due to lost sites beneath the lakes.
The BioInterfaces program aims to develop new tools to control cells, leading to therapies for muscle, retina, and central nervous system diseases. The program also focuses on controlling bacterial cells that form biofilms on man-made surfaces.
Concussion experts recommend strict monitoring and activity restrictions for children and teens after a concussion. Cognitive rest is crucial, with limits on academic activities and at-home/social activities like texting, video games, and TV watching to facilitate recovery.
A study published in The Lancet found that metabolic changes, including increased fasting glucose levels and decreased insulin sensitivity, occur several years before the onset of type 2 diabetes. By identifying these changes, it may be possible to delay or even prevent diabetes diagnosis.
Scientists at the University of Saskatchewan and Canadian Light Source have identified a chemical fingerprint associated with Barrett's Esophagus, a precursor to esophageal cancer. The discovery uses infrared microscopy to detect biomarkers in individual cells, offering a new diagnostic tool for detecting the condition.
A study published by the American Academy of Sleep Medicine found that gamers who play for more than seven hours a week experience poorer sleep hygiene and greater sleepiness. The research indicates that excessive gamers sleep significantly less on weekdays and have a positive correlation between game play time and sleepiness.
A recent study published in the American Academy of Sleep Medicine found that regular daily exercise does not increase total sleep time. The study, which involved 14 subjects who wore actigraphy armbands for approximately 23 days, showed that increased activity was followed by lower total sleep time, and vice versa.
A team of astronomers has directly measured the distance to a galaxy, providing a precise tool for unraveling the mystery of Dark Energy. The technique uses water molecules in disks orbiting central black holes to amplify radio waves, enabling measurements up to 160 million light-years away.
Incidence rates of colorectal cancer are rising among young adults in the US due to increased obesity and unfavorable dietary patterns. Studies found a 1.5% annual increase in incidence rates from 1992-2005, with left-sided tumors being more common.
Research found that men with insomnia who slept six hours or less were at highest risk of mortality, with a mortality rate 19.6% higher than those who slept more than six hours. Insomnia is associated with medical morbidity and mortality rates similar to obstructive sleep apnea.
A study presented at SLEEP 2009 found that sleep extension improved sprinting speed, hitting accuracy, and mood in collegiate tennis players. The researchers believe that similar benefits may be seen in other sports, with reduced daytime sleepiness and improved athletic performance.
A study by the American Academy of Sleep Medicine reveals that genetic mechanisms overlap among anxiety, depression, and insomnia in adolescents. Adolescents with anxiety and depression are more likely to experience insomnia, suggesting a shared underlying factor.
Research from Boston University School of Medicine sheds light on how airways form and provide insights into lung diseases like asthma and COPD. The study reveals that Notch signaling controls the balance between ciliated and secretory cells in developing airways.
Researchers discovered that a nicotine receptor inhibitor, α-CbT, can double survival time in non-small cell lung carcinoma mice. The treatment showed significant antitumor activity by inducing apoptosis and had limited toxic effects on unaffected cells.
A UBC paleontologist has solved the enigma of a massive bonebed in southern California by proposing that it formed over a 700,000 year time-span approximately 15 million years ago. The team found only five shark bite specimens out of over 3,000 bones and teeth analyzed, supporting the deposit-over-time theory.
Researchers at the Smithsonian Institution analyzed feather remains from a US Airways plane that crashed into the Hudson River, finding that the Canada geese involved were from a migratory population. The study's findings provide essential information for developing policies and techniques to reduce future bird strikes.
Physicists at the University of Texas at Austin have developed the thinnest superconducting metal layer made from lead, measuring only two atoms thick. This achievement lays the groundwork for future innovations in superconductor technologies.
A new study finds that low-income conflict-affected countries such as Afghanistan and Somalia receive significantly less aid for reproductive health compared to non-conflict-affected countries. The researchers found that an average of just $509.3m (2.4%) was allocated to reproductive health out of a total of $20.8 billion annually.