A recent study published in PNAS reveals the unique role of EZH2 enzyme in cancer, facilitating the development of selective small molecule therapeutics for specific forms of human lymphomas. The research highlights the importance of targeting HMTs in genetically-defined cancer patients with high unmet needs.
Researchers have developed ultra-short X-ray beams that rival those made in expensive synchrotron particle accelerators, opening up new research possibilities. These beams can be used to measure and observe never-before-seen femtosecond atomic and molecular interactions.
Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center have discovered a feedback cycle involving microRNAs, proteins called ZEB1 and ZEB2, and pregnancy-maintaining hormone progesterone. MicroRNA levels increase before labor, enabling uterine contractions.
The global burden of disease associated with poor hygiene, sanitation, and water supply is substantial, accounting for nearly 20% of all child deaths worldwide. Four papers in the PLOS Medicine series highlight the need for urgent action to improve access to safe drinking water, sanitation facilities, and hand-washing practices.
Researchers from the University of Gothenburg have discovered a new drumlin field, revealing that modern-day glaciers can create these geological formations. The study provides evidence of rapid ice movements and challenges current climate modeling techniques.
The seven-year project aims to reduce obesity and high blood pressure by increasing physical activity, healthy eating, sleep, and stress management in overweight and obese students. It will assess the effectiveness of three behavioral interventions within children's school and community environments.
Researchers at the Centenary Institute discovered a new death pathway that can break drug resistance in ovarian cancer. The treatment, FTY720, kills ovarian cancer cells through necrosis, making it resistant to relapse. Further clinical trials are needed to confirm its effectiveness.
A recent study by Intermountain Medical Center Heart Institute reveals that over half of patients taking warfarin are unaware of potential interactions with herbal and dietary supplements. The most commonly used supplements interfere with the effectiveness of warfarin, increasing the risk of bleeding or stroke.
Researchers used phylogenetic analysis to pinpoint the source of HIV infections in two separate cases, revealing that defendants knowingly spread the virus to multiple partners. The study demonstrates the potential for evolutionary forensics to exonerate falsely accused and convict those responsible.
A new study found that most teachers' value-added impact on students' math and reading scores decreases rapidly, with 73% of math gains fading within a year. Researchers analyzed data from over 1.3 million student test scores in North Carolina schools.
Researchers at Duke University Medical Center discovered a novel feedback mechanism controlled by the Zif protein that regulates the balance of brain stem cells. This discovery has implications for understanding neural stem cell self-renewal and may lead to new therapies against brain tumors and diseases.
A study of Neanderthal and early human teeth reveals that modern humans' slow development and long childhood are recent traits. This may have given early humans an evolutionary edge over Neanderthals, facilitating additional learning and complex cognition.
Researchers found that hormone therapy has no effect on prostate size in middle-aged men, while a study on presumed consent policies suggests it may increase deceased kidney donation rates but lower living donor rates. Additionally, high co-pay costs are linked to increased prescription abandonment rates, highlighting the need for affo...
Researchers developed a comprehensive genetic test that can screen all 54 known deafness-causing genes in one run, costing $2,000. The new OtoSCOPE test offers quicker answers for families anxious to determine treatment options or learn the likelihood of future children having hearing loss.
The Himalayan region's glaciers are retreating, but the impacts of climate change will still be felt, with programs integrating health, education, and social organizations needed to address these effects. The report highlights the need for international collaboration to gather more information on glacier ice balance.
A study found that various types of C. difficile are now common across European hospitals, with an average incidence rate of 4.1 per 10,000 patients per day. The most prevalent types were 014/020, 001, and 078, with type 027 being less common in Europe compared to other regions.
A new study reveals that APP695 is the primary source of amyloid-beta peptide, a toxic compound contributing to Alzheimer's disease. This discovery enables researchers to target their work more precisely, potentially leading to a better understanding and treatment of the disease.
Researchers at Mayo Clinic have shown that iron buildup is prevalent in unstable coronary artery plaque, making it a potential marker for risk of myocardial infarction and sudden death. Non-invasive imaging techniques, such as micro-CT scans, may soon be able to detect these plaques, allowing for earlier intervention.
The Graph500 test aims to measure a computer's ability to analyze large graph-based structures, which are increasingly used in biological, social, and security problems. The test is designed to influence computer makers to build computers with the architecture needed to handle these complex applications.
Non-smokers exposed to tobacco smoke are at risk of hearing loss, with men and older individuals more likely to experience high-frequency hearing loss. Even low levels of passive smoking can continue the progression of hearing loss in former smokers.
A new study suggests that human creativity may have evolved as a way for parents to bond with their children, passing on cultural knowledge and traditions. This theory challenges the idea that creativity emerged from courtship behaviors, proposing instead that it arose from parental influences.
A preservative-free, acidified nasal spray was found to be safe and effective at maintaining sterility in a small-scale study. The researchers evaluated the spray's impact on symptoms and microbial growth, finding no significant differences between the preservative-free and preservative-containing options.
A study involving 30 patients found that robotic-assisted surgery can be performed safely with minimal blood loss and no significant long-term complications. The surgeries took an average of 512 minutes, but the rates of postoperative deaths, fistulas, and complications were comparable to those in open procedures.
The American College of Medical Informatics (ACMI) has inducted eight new Fellows, who have made substantial and sustained contributions to the field of medical informatics. The incoming ACMI President, Jim Cimino, welcomed the new Fellows, praising their expertise in clinical practice, medical research, education, and patient care.
Researchers at the University of Cincinnati have developed a stem cell-infused patch that promotes cell migration to damaged cardiac tissue following a heart attack, resulting in improved function. The patch combines cardiomyocytes, endothelial cells, and embryonic fibroblasts to enhance regeneration of heart tissues.
Researchers observe sills forming at shallow depths in sediment layers, releasing nutrient-rich fluids and significant amounts of CO2 and methane. This novel mechanism may influence ocean cycles and climate.
A Nova Southeastern University researcher has discovered a novel method using gene therapy to block beta-arrestin 1, a protein that contributes to heart failure. The approach aims to reduce the severity of heart failure by targeting the increase of aldosterone production in the body.
Studies show that mild sensory stimulation can protect against brain damage and restore function after stroke, while aerobic exercise may help treat or prevent drug addiction. Additionally, physical fitness prior to injury can alleviate traumatic brain injury effects in mice.
Researchers found that when people believe a goal is autonomously chosen, they experience increased motivation and value, whereas imposed choices lead to decreased motivation. This study has implications for consumer behavior and marketing strategies.
A new blood test detects low troponin T levels, associated with increased risk of heart failure and cardiovascular death in older adults without symptoms. The study found that elevated troponin levels over time can indicate a higher risk of developing heart disease.
A randomized trial with over 600 patients found that high-dose prescription omega-3 did not reduce the recurrence of atrial fibrillation. The treatment had no significant impact on the rate of symptomatic AF or flutter events in either group, suggesting that previous findings may be due to small sample sizes.
Dr. Donald M. Lloyd-Jones is being honored by the American Heart Association for his outstanding contribution to improving cardiovascular health through lifestyle changes and research grants.
Researchers from Imperial College London have developed a space-time cloak that can conceal events, making it theoretically possible for objects to move undetected. The cloak exploits metamaterials to create undetectable blind spots in light or sound waves.
A study by University of Warwick professor Andrew Oswald finds that UK citizens face increased anxiety and depression, with 15% suffering from mental disorders. Emotional prosperity is declining across Europe, with policy-makers urged to shift focus from material prosperity to psychological well-being.
A new study published in Neurology suggests that children with autism are likely to continue experiencing handwriting problems into their teenage years. The research found that teenagers with autism scored significantly lower than those without autism on a handwriting assessment test.
A new study reveals that adopting a healthy lifestyle in young adulthood can significantly reduce the risk of heart disease in middle age. The five key behaviors include not smoking, low or no alcohol intake, weight control, physical activity, and a healthy diet. In contrast, genetics play a smaller role in determining cardiovascular h...
Researchers found that cutting back on salt in teenagers' diets by just one-half teaspoon per day could reduce the number of young adults with high blood pressure by 44-63 percent. Lowering dietary salt can also have numerous benefits, including reducing incidents of coronary heart disease and strokes.
A survey of over-the-counter medication users found that red and pink tablets are preferred due to their aesthetic appeal. The study suggests that the color of a pill can boost compliance and improve outcomes, and recommends considering aesthetics in pharmaceutical formulation.
A systematic review of recombinant activated factor 7 (rFVIIa) use in patients without hemophilia found uncertain benefits and potential risks. The review suggests that the drug's use should be restricted to clinical trials due to its limited effectiveness.
A new biomarker, cardiac troponin T (cTnT), has been found to be associated with the development of heart failure or cardiovascular death in older adults. Higher concentrations of cTnT were linked to a greater risk of both outcomes, independent of traditional risk factors.
Researchers found that inconsistent portion sizes contribute to people's uncertainty about eating appropriate amounts, leading to 'guiltless gluttony'. This effect is more pronounced when consumers are less concerned with accurate nutrition intake or have limited cognitive resources.
A study of 38 patients who underwent primary or revision rhinoplasty found that computer imaging was moderately accurate in predicting the final result. Patients valued its inclusion in the preoperative consultation, citing improved communication with surgeons and better understanding of the surgery. The accuracy of the images varied b...
A family history of Alzheimer's disease significantly increases the risk for developing the disorder, with a new study suggesting that which parent has the disease is crucial. Researchers found altered levels of amyloid and oxidative stress proteins in adult children of mothers with Alzheimer's, increasing their risk.
Researchers found that people taking anti-clotting medication often unaware of dangers of taking herbal supplements, posing a risk to patient safety. Overweight black teenagers are at high risk for cardiovascular disease due to non-traditional risk factors such as insulin resistance and family history of heart attack.
Scientists identify specific receptors, TLR-2 and dectin-1, that can be targeted to stop damage while promoting nerve cell growth after a spinal cord injury. An experimental compound was found to activate the TLR-2 receptor alone, enhancing axon growth without causing cell death.
A new study found that football bettors often favor favorite teams over underdogs, despite point spreads intended to reflect crowd wisdom. The researchers suggest a method to improve predictions: asking people to estimate point differentials instead of making choices against spreads.
A new study by Yale University researchers found that gaming is associated with lower odds of smoking regularly in boys, but links to getting into serious fights and carrying a weapon to school in girls. Problematic gaming is also linked to regular cigarette smoking, drug use, depression and serious fights in both boys and girls.
The ASU Public Health Law Network - Western Region has received a national grant to create a public health legal training curriculum and exercises. The curriculum will help state and local public health officials, legal counsel, and emergency managers prepare for emergencies by enhancing their understanding of the essential role of law.
A study in JAMA found that multiple cardiac imaging tests are common and associated with a high cumulative estimated radiation dose for patients. The study revealed that myocardial perfusion imaging (MPI) accounts for the highest radiation burden, with many patients receiving doses over 100mSv.
A study of 282 individuals found that radiation therapy for head and neck cancer can cause significant hearing loss, with severe cases affecting daily life. The research highlights the need to consider hearing loss as a potential health issue in cancer patients undergoing treatment.
Researchers at the University of Florida discover that some children with spinal cord injuries may not regain movement after traditional assessments. However, through locomotor training, these children were able to improve their walking ability and trunk control, highlighting a potential new approach for rehabilitation.
Paul Kenny, a Scripps Research Institute associate professor, has been awarded the Jacob P. Waletzky Memorial Award for his groundbreaking research on drug addiction and compulsive eating. His work reveals new links between molecular mechanisms that drive both behaviors.
Researchers used synchrotron X-ray imaging to study 10 young Neanderthal and Homo sapiens fossils, revealing significant developmental differences. Modern humans have the slowest growth rate, which may have provided an evolutionary edge.
A team of researchers has developed a human cell-based model of Rett syndrome, overcoming the main limitation of accessing live neurons from patients. The study provides evidence of functional rescue using human cells and opens up new avenues for drug development and high-throughput screening.
A new study from the University of Gothenburg found that oxytocin medication is often unnecessary in normal deliveries, particularly for healthy first-time mothers with spontaneous starts of labor. The research, which monitored over 100 women, showed no significant differences between groups in terms of complications or outcomes.
Animal studies suggest that the stress response, immune system, and regulation of nerve cell signals may play important roles in depression. The findings highlight the need for new treatment targets and approaches to help those not responding to existing therapies.
A study of 1.9 million hospitalized children found that gynecologic surgical procedures had the highest likelihood of leaving a foreign body inside, resulting in longer hospital stays and higher costs. The risk was particularly high for ovarian cyst or cancer-related procedures.
A recent study found that patients with more intra-abdominal fat are at higher risk of complications following major liver surgery, including longer hospital stays and increased mortality rates. However, body mass index (BMI) was not associated with these risks, highlighting the importance of using alternative measures to assess obesity.
Researchers achieved marked clinical improvements in two young children with Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome through gene therapy, correcting immunodeficiency and reducing complications. The treatment is a promising step forward for patients with this rare and severe disorder.
The American Association of Pharmaceutical Scientists (AAPS) and the International Pharmaceutical Federation (FIP) presented the following researchers with prestigious awards for their contributions to pharmaceutical sciences: Ho-Leung Fung, Dale E. Wurster, Michael G. Bartlett, Peter A. Crooks, Abu T.M. Serajuddin, Meindert Danhof, Sa...