A new treatment protocol using dexamethasone instead of prednisone and less intensive chemotherapy showed similar event-free survival in non-high risk patients but better results in high-risk patients, reducing the risk of side effects. Overall, the treatment strategy improved survival rates for children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia.
Scientists discovered a way to track stored memories using eye movements, even when individuals are unable or unwilling to report what they remember. The study highlights the role of the hippocampus in memory and awareness, suggesting that conscious memory may depend on interactions between the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex.
A strong association has been found between Trichomonas vaginalis infection and advanced, lethal prostate cancer in men. The study, published on the Journal of the National Cancer Institute website, analyzed blood samples from 673 men with prostate cancer and compared infection status to 673 control subjects.
Analysis of ancient rock isotopes reveals a rise in atmospheric oxygen 580 million years ago triggered the evolution of large complex animals. This discovery confirms oxygenation of oceans as a driving force for animal life.
A 23-year study by Javier Lobón-Cerviá reveals that environmental conditions, including river flow and temperature, significantly impact trout populations. The research shows that optimal conditions for young trout development are characterized by average river flow and suitable temperatures.
A recent study published in The Lancet suggests that children in Africa with sickle cell anaemia are dying unnecessarily from bacterial infections. The researchers recommend vaccination programs for all children in Africa to prevent these deadly infections, which can be prevented by vaccination.
Researchers at Purdue University found that adding ascorbic acid and sugar to green tea can increase the body's ability to absorb polyphenols, a class of antioxidants. The model-backed study suggests that adding lemon juice or vitamin C could also enhance absorption.
A survey found that 75% of surgical patients would consider allowing a competent unsupervised trainee to perform their entire operation if it meant they could have it done more quickly. Most respondents felt trainees needed to operate under supervision to improve skills, but were willing for supervised trainees to do procedures.
Advances in optics and photonics are transforming our daily lives with innovations like optical fibers, lasers, and medical imaging techniques. Researchers are now exploring the potential of plasmonics to develop metamaterial-based invisibility cloaks and super-strength solar cells.
Researchers found that 4 weeks of aerobic cycling exercise reduced hepatic triglyceride concentration and visceral adipose tissue volume in obese individuals, leading to lower risk of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. This study suggests that regular physical activity can benefit liver health without relying on weight loss.
The global financial crisis has severe consequences on children's health, nutrition, and education in East Asia and the Pacific. Investments can be made to safeguard countries' future economic growth and human development.
Scientists found that natalizumab treatment reactsivate dormant JC virus, leading to PML. Measures of the virus in urine increased after 12 months, and blood samples showed presence in 60% of patients at 18 months.
Researchers at UAB found that preventive antibiotic TB therapy for HIV-infected patients is approximately $950 per case, compared to a previously reported range of $900-$1500 for treating new smear-positive TB cases. The integrated care approach also offers economic benefits by reducing productivity losses and preventing the spread of TB.
The winners of the 2009 Science in Society Journalism Awards are Alison Bass, Jason Felch and Maura Dolan, Michael J. Berens and Ken Armstrong, and Pamela Ronald, who received $2,500 cash prizes for their investigative reporting on topics such as pharmaceutical industry manipulation, DNA-based forensic evidence, and genetic engineering.
Researchers used historical climate data to predict that warmer temperatures will cause plants to flower up to 11 days earlier in Scotland by 2080. This change can lead to desynchronisation between plant and animal life, affecting ecosystems across the globe.
A University of East Anglia study reveals that computers are now better at lip-reading than humans, with an 80% recognition rate compared to 32% for human viewers. The research suggests a new video-based training system can improve lip-reading skills with limited training.
Researchers have discovered that highly charged tungsten ions can emit intense light in the extreme ultraviolet spectrum, similar to sodium atoms. This finding provides a promising alternative for diagnosing fusion reactor conditions, such as temperature and density.
Researchers are harnessing genomics to improve wine production techniques, reducing costs and spoilage by monitoring protein biomarkers in grapevine and yeast cells. The project aims to develop a handheld device for growers to monitor proteins in vines or berries, allowing for more precise management practices.
The Benthic Rover, a robotic explorer, is revolutionizing our understanding of life on the deep seafloor. By measuring oxygen consumption and studying sediment communities, scientists can better comprehend how organisms find food in low-nutrient environments.
The research team will investigate the role of structural components in knee ligament sprains, combining micro-mechanical models, molecular models, and biological and mechanical experiments. The study aims to clarify micro-structural changes associated with partial and complete tears.
Researchers simplify fabrication of nano storage, creating a potentially very dense, stable nonvolatile memory for digital devices. The graphite-based approach uses industry-standard lithographic techniques to deposit amorphous graphite onto silicon, facilitating the creation of reliable memory bits.
The Rome meeting aimed to address the challenges of sharing biological research data and materials, highlighting the negative impact of restrictive licensing on genetically engineered mice and embryonic stem cells. The meeting recommended increasing investment in public databases and mouse repositories to facilitate efficient sharing.
Researchers at Columbia University Irving Medical Center found a new type of adult stem cell, CARNs, in the prostate that can give rise to cancer if tumor suppressor genes are inactivated. The discovery resolves controversy over the origin of prostate cancer cells and may help develop better treatments.
Scientists have developed nanoparticles that can target and destroy glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) brain cancer cells using light-sensitive titanium dioxide material. The 'nanobio hybrids' killed up to 80% of brain cancer cells after exposure to focused white light, making them a promising part of brain cancer therapy.
The NIAID is conducting a trial to test the safety and efficacy of a 2009 H1N1 influenza vaccine in pregnant women. The trial aims to provide critical information for public health planning, as pregnant women are at higher risk of developing severe illness from the flu virus.
Researchers have developed a non-invasive treatment combining high-intensity LEDs with green tea extract to reduce facial wrinkles. The study shows promising results, achieving smoother skin in one-tenth of the time it took for LED therapy alone.
A team of experts will dive into the sacred pools of Cara Blanca in central Belize to investigate their cultural significance and environmental history. The expedition aims to determine if these cenotes have similar sacred qualities as other Maya sites.
Scott Shappell, a professor at Clemson University, has been elected Fellow of the American Psychological Association for his significant impact in human error research and fatigue effects on performance. He is known for co-developing groundbreaking tools to identify and prevent accidents in high-risk industries.
Cirrhotic patients with minimal hepatic encephalopathy (MHE) are at a higher risk of motor vehicle accidents, with a 16% rate compared to 4% for those without MHE. A study found that ICT was a superior test in identifying patients at risk of future auto accidents.
A new analytical method developed by researchers at the University of Copenhagen reveals a significant correlation between oxygen content in seawater and global cooling. The study indicates two periods in Earth's history with large increases in oxygen content, which led to temperature decreases and potentially enabled life in deep oceans.
A major clinical study has rejected cancer safety fears surrounding the most commonly prescribed group of drugs for heartburn treatment. The study found no link between long-term use of proton pump inhibitors and the development of Barrett's Oesophagus or oesophageal adenocarcinoma, a potentially fatal cancer.
The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation has selected 16 researchers to receive funding for 10 new projects addressing key health policy issues. The projects aim to improve treatments for ADHD, assess Alzheimer's risk, and consumer understanding of food claims.
Researchers found that applying a natural plant hormone can help eliminate pesticide residues from crops, reducing environmental exposure to pesticides. The study suggests using brassinosteroids as an environmentally friendly alternative to minimize pesticide risks.
Researchers at Michigan Technological University have identified three genes linked to sporadic ALS, a type of neuromuscular disorder. The discovery provides valuable insights into the genetic basis of the disease and may lead to the development of new treatments or a potential cure.
Scientists have decoded the genome of Phytophthora infestans, the cause of late blight, which destroyed potato crops in the 19th century and is now affecting tomatoes. The genome contains a massive amount of repetitive DNA, thought to be key to its adaptability and effectiveness as a plant pathogen.
Health journalists filter information from peers, audiences, and sources like universities and nonprofits to identify news-worthy stories. The study found that health journalists rely on non-public relations resources more frequently than medical journals or PR sources.
A new study found that Canadian health biotech firms collaborating with developing countries have a strong interest in building partnerships, driven by access to emerging markets and cost savings. Joint R&D activities are nearly as common as distribution arrangements, reflecting bi-directional knowledge-intensive collaboration.
The study found that the pathogen's genome is unusually large and has a unique structure, enabling rapid evolution of genes involved in plant infection. The 'two-speed' genomic strategy allows different parts of the genome to evolve at different rates, potentially making it harder for plants to resist infection.
A new study reveals that vitamin C helps promote wound healing and protects skin cells from DNA damage, a finding with great relevance to the cosmetics industry. The research also suggests that vitamin C can help remove DNA damage caused by free radicals, leading to potential advances in skin regeneration and cancer prevention.
People with mental illnesses like depression and anxiety are heavy smokers, but their doctors fear asking them to quit due to concerns about worsening symptoms. However, tobacco addiction specialist Brian Hitsman says this is a myth, and treating tobacco use and dependence can improve patients' overall health.
Researchers at UCSB have developed a novel drug delivery system that uses nanoparticles and laser exposure to deliver siRNA into cancer cells, providing temporal and spatial control over gene expression. The technique has potential applications in delivering multiple drugs against diverse biological targets.
A study published in The Lancet found that vaccination against bacterial infections, such as Streptococcus pneumoniae and Haemophilus influenzae type b, can substantially improve survival rates in African children with sickle-cell anaemia. The researchers also found that these bacteria are the same cause of infection in both developed ...
Research suggests that living close to noisy roads increases the risk of developing hypertension and cardiovascular diseases. The study found modest exposure effects at lower noise levels, but more marked effects among younger and middle-aged populations.
A study by MassGeneral Hospital for Children reveals that newborn seizures often do not produce visible convulsions due to the brain's immature response to GABA. Treatment with a new medication, bumetanide, successfully suppressed seizure activity in both cortical and subcortical regions.
Researchers at the University of Arizona are working on a novel, non-invasive lung test to measure airway fluid composition in cystic fibrosis patients. The study aims to compare the accuracy of this test with the invasive bronchoalveolar lavage procedure.
The Xavier University of Louisiana and New York University have received a $3 million grant from the National Science Foundation to develop a materials science research core at Xavier and an undergraduate materials science educational program. Undergraduate students will be exposed to research laboratories as early as their freshman ye...
Researchers at UCLA have found a surprise energy transfer mechanism from the solar wind to the Earth's magnetosphere, which could improve spacecraft safety and reliability. This discovery contradicts long-held assumptions about the control of energy transfer rate.
Scientists have identified powerful antiviral compounds in the roots of Ferula assa-foetida, a plant used during the Spanish influenza pandemic. The sesquiterpene coumarins found in the plant showed greater potency against H1N1 flu virus than a prescription antiviral drug.
Research highlights striking differences in national prevention policies and cardiovascular mortality rates across EU countries, with Hungary and Greece showing highest rates. The study also found noticeable disparities in risk factor prevalence and CHD prevention policies among the 16 participating countries.
A new NIST prototype method detects and measures elusive hazards such as concealed explosives and toxins using a technique called headspace analysis. The method is sensitive enough to measure amounts of target materials that constitute as little as 0.0000002 percent of a sample.
A survey found that most businesses are unprepared to handle the impact of a widespread H1N1 outbreak, with only 27% believing they could maintain operations for two weeks with half their workforce absent. Only 35% offer paid leave for family members, and even fewer would allow time off if schools/daycares closed.
Researchers at UC Santa Cruz are working on a new approach to AIDS vaccine development using novel HIV protein structures and broadly neutralizing antibodies to combat the virus' high variability. The $3.5 million NIH grant will support studies exploring these promising findings and potentially lead to more effective vaccines.
Researchers used 'barcoded' yeast mutants to identify novel biological processes and potential drug targets in response to nitrogen-containing bisphosphonate (N-BP) cancer drugs. These findings may open up opportunities for the development of new compounds with antitumor activity.
New research shows that dopamine reinforces drug-associated memories, driving and perpetuating addiction. The study found that nicotine induces synaptic potentiation, which correlates with the mice learning to prefer a place associated with the nicotine dose.
Salt-loving algae can be grown on marginal lands with brackish water, producing biofuels 10-30 times more than terrestrial crops. Their growth is non-seasonal, making them suitable for recycling atmospheric carbon dioxide.
A recent study published in Clinical Infectious Diseases reveals key laboratory and clinical features of human P. knowlesi infections, confirming the potentially deadly nature of the disease. The research found that P. knowlesi malaria can cause a wide spectrum of disease, including breathing difficulties and kidney problems.
Researchers at MIT have cracked the code of cement's molecular structure, finding it to be a hybrid with characteristics of both crystalline and amorphous structures. This discovery could lead to the development of more durable and environmentally friendly concrete.
Pediatric researchers at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia will investigate the most beneficial method of using antibiotics to treat urinary tract infections (UTIs) in children. The goal is to determine if a shorter treatment period can reduce drug resistance while effectively treating UTIs.
Researchers at NIST have proposed a mathematical solution to enable calibration of temperature in microfluidic systems for accurate measurements. The new equations can correct errors introduced by changing reference temperatures, benefiting applications like DNA amplification and chemical analysis.
New studies reveal dry years getting drier in Pacific Northwest, explore rainfall-humidity relationship, and analyze ancient solar cycles using radioactive tracers. These findings highlight the impact of climate change and solar activity on Earth's water cycle and atmosphere.
The US has reached a critical point on obesity, with 72 million adults affected. Health reform that directly addresses obesity is crucial to saving lives and reducing healthcare costs.
52% of small business employees are uninsured or underinsured due to high premium costs and lack of transparency. Health reform provisions could alleviate these issues, providing standard benefits, eliminating lifetime maximums, and controlling premium costs.
Researchers at University of California - Irvine found that brain activity during an event is comparable to the first experience, even if specifics are forgotten. This discovery may shed light on memories of traumatic events and provide insight into memory loss with age.
Researchers found geckos' severed tails exhibit complex movement patterns to distract predators, potentially leading to new insights into spinal injury recovery. The study's findings suggest central pattern generators can function without a brain or nervous system.
Researchers at UAB are investigating genetic factors that contribute to suicidal behavior, focusing on the role of serotonin 2C and ADAR proteins. The study aims to develop diagnostic tests that can identify individuals at high risk of suicide and tailor therapies accordingly.
A study found that working parents who have better work conditions are more likely to prepare home-cooked meals, eat with their family, and keep healthy food at work. Long hours and irregular schedules can lead to feelings of time scarcity, fatigue, and strain, affecting parents' ability to plan and prepare meals.
A new study led by Queen's University aims to clarify Canadian exercise guidelines, which suggest 20-30 minutes of vigorous activity or 45-60 minutes of walking for health benefits. The research will investigate the specific type, amount, pattern, and intensity of exercise needed to achieve optimal results.
Researchers at Penn State have found that machines are unable to recognize distorted images like humans can. This limitation may be overcome in the future as computer programs harness large volumes of online data for knowledge generation and automatic recognition.
A new educational program using the Medicine Wheel Model for Nutrition has shown promise in changing dietary patterns and improving glycemic control in an American Indian population. The study found significant weight loss and decreased body mass index in participants who received nutrition lessons based on traditional Northern Plains ...
A new study by University of Wisconsin-Madison researchers suggests that many mainstream scientists regularly work with journalists, contradicting the common perception that they are out of touch. The study found that senior researchers tend to interact most frequently with reporters.
Researchers at Baylor College of Medicine found that nicotine strengthens neuronal connections in the brain, creating memory associations between environmental cues and smoking behavior. This process is thought to underlie why former smokers often experience strong cravings when exposed to triggers such as bars or meals with friends.
A team of biologists found that a rare species of algae proliferated in corals during a period of high sea surface temperatures in the Caribbean Ocean. The results suggest that this species may save some corals from bleaching, but its long-term impact on coral health is uncertain.
Researchers at Berkeley Lab developed a technique to boost the electrical conductivity of nanorod crystals by 100,000 times using gold contacts. This method preserves the intrinsic semiconductor character of the starting nanocrystal, making it ideal for solar cells and energy production.
Research discovered a conflict between worker bees and the queen, with some workers reproducing and living up to three times longer than non-reproducing workers. This leads to a 'reproductive class war' where individual benefits come at the cost of the colony.
Researchers found that bone lead levels were associated with a higher risk of death from all causes and cardiovascular disease. The study suggests that bone lead may be a better biomarker for cumulative exposure to lead, leading to important public health implications.
Researchers have sequenced the genome of Phytophthora infestans, the cause of the Irish potato famine, to aid in its control and development of chemical-free methods. The pathogen's unique genetic traits, including repetitive DNA sequences, play a key role in its virulence and adaptability.
Researchers at UC Riverside will advance their work on sequencing the barley genome and breeding new barley varieties with a two-year $1 million grant. They aim to sequence all barley genes and make information available to the public, with potential benefits for farmers, markets, and consumers.
Research indicates that family mealtimes can have numerous benefits for teens and children, including reduced substance abuse, improved vocabulary growth, and healthier eating habits. Fiese urges cities to support zoning laws, low-interest loan programs, and food labeling initiatives to make healthy food choices accessible to all.
Researchers have confirmed a link between Trichomonas vaginalis and an increased risk of prostate cancer. The study found that men infected with T. vaginalis were more likely to develop extraprostatic prostate cancer and cancer that is likely to progress to bony metastases or prostate cancer-specific death.
A team of researchers at Washington University in St. Louis has discovered that individual cells isolated from the biological clock can keep a 24-hour rhythm, but they are unreliable on their own. The cells must communicate with each other to establish a coherent daily cycle.