A new study reveals that people with a history of cancer are 40% more likely to experience memory problems that interfere with daily functioning. The findings suggest that cancer itself is a key independent predictor of memory issues, going beyond previously recognized conditions like 'chemobrain'.
The International Rett Syndrome Foundation has awarded $1.5 million in research grants to advance understanding of the disorder and develop treatments. These awards will support innovative studies on the genetic and epigenetic mechanisms underlying Rett syndrome.
A study by the University of Sheffield found that actual partners are often different from ideal mate preferences, with women showing larger discrepancies than men. The research gathered data from 100 heterosexual couples and used software to measure mating preferences for body morphology.
Recent studies have found that saturated fat has a limited impact on cardiovascular disease risk and that replacing it with other nutrients, such as omega-3 fatty acids and whole grains, may be more beneficial for heart health. The 'saturated fat is bad' paradigm is being reexamined by leading scientists.
A molecular imaging technique may help identify early response to treatment in cisplatin-resistant ovarian cancer, potentially reducing unnecessary side effects and offering more effective treatments. Researchers used a PET probe to monitor tumor growth in mice with human ovarian cancer.
A new study published in the Journal of the American Dental Association confirms the safety and efficacy of OraMoist mucoadhesive patches for controlling xerostomia. The patches provide statistically significant improvements in salivary flow rates and subjective moistness, with a sustained effect lasting up to two weeks.
Researchers explored new techniques for 3D imaging and analysis of rocks, fossils, and other materials. These advances have improved our understanding of geological processes and the potential zones of weakness in volcanoes.
Researchers at Boston Medical Center validated the Boston Bowel Preparation Scale, a tool assessing colon cleanliness during colonoscopies. The scale's accuracy and reliability were demonstrated, making it a potential international standardized tool.
Researchers found that chronic infection with Stenotrophomonas maltophilia is independently linked to an increased risk of exacerbations in CF patients, as well as lower lung function.
A University of Oklahoma research team will explore the biological stability of current and next-generation fuels, measuring their impact on biocorrosion activity. The five-year total grant aims to provide a scientific basis for assessing alternate fuels and mitigating fuel biodeterioration and biocorrosion problems.
Researchers have discovered that growth hormone controls skeletal muscle development through IGF-1, whereas its effect on nutrient uptake is independent of IGF-1. In contrast, aldosterone promotes vascular injury by inducing expression of the protein PGF in mouse and human blood vessel walls.
A novel approach to improving health literacy has been developed and evaluated through the ESCUCHE Program, a 10-week curriculum targeting Spanish-speaking radio audience. The program resulted in significant improvements in science literacy across educational levels, with the greatest gains among high school-educated participants.
Researchers at Temple University discovered that STIM1 protein inhibits voltage-operated calcium channels in non-excitable cells, providing a common mechanism for calcium signaling in both types of cells. This finding reveals a crucial role of STIM1 in sensing low calcium levels and activating Orai channels.
Global malaria funding has increased by 166% since 2007 but falls 60% short of the required $4.9 billion for comprehensive control in 2010. Meanwhile, 21 countries, including 12 in Africa, have received adequate or near-adequate funds to implement effective malaria interventions.
Computer-aided detection (CAD) software highlighted abnormal areas on mammographic images, used in 74% of screening exams and 50% of diagnostic exams by 2008. The technology is becoming standard practice despite controversy over its efficacy.
Research found that two-thirds of suicidal adolescents see a mental health professional within two months after an initial ED visit. Adolescents with pre-existing mental health conditions are more likely to access follow-up care, but one in five require subsequent inpatient psychiatric admissions.
The University of Houston is collaborating with the Mexican Institute of Greater Houston on a $2 million federal grant to provide broadband education and training to underrepresented communities. The project aims to improve digital literacy, increase internet adoption, and enhance economic growth among minority populations.
A study found that Mexican women who are exposed to environmental tobacco smoke are at a higher risk of developing breast cancer, with a threefold increased risk compared to those who do not smoke. The link between passive smoking and breast cancer remained regardless of menopausal status.
A study found that short and long sleep duration in early pregnancy are associated with increased mean third trimester systolic and diastolic blood pressure values. About 20.5% of women reported a normal sleep duration, while 13.7% slept six hours or less and 10.6% slept more than 10 hours per night.
Vitamin D deficiency is associated with a higher likelihood of aggressive breast cancer in African-American women. Vitamin D levels were found to be 29.8 ng/ml in white women and 19.3 ng/ml in African-American women.
A new study examines the diets of American youth, finding that grain desserts, pizza, and soda are major sources of empty calories. The research highlights the need for a reduction in energy from current consumption levels and emphasizes the importance of changing the food environment to limit calories from these sources.
A study by Boston University School of Medicine found no significant difference in visual acuity or anatomic outcomes between patients treated with Bevacizumab (Avastin) and Ranibizumab (Lucentis) for age-related macular degeneration. Patients receiving Avastin underwent more frequent injections, but the results showed similar improvem...
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine have discovered a method for desensitizing the immune system to certain food proteins, potentially alleviating symptoms for millions suffering from severe allergies. The discovery involves targeting a specific receptor on immune cells using sugar-modified protein.
A recent report by the Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee has been criticized for failing to consider recent scientific results, despite its claimed reliance on a newly created USDA Nutrition Evidence Library. The guidelines have been largely immune to criticism, but critics argue that they have contributed to rising rates of obesit...
The specter of climate change is forcing scientists and managers to consider relocating endangered species to new habitats. This approach, known as managed relocation, raises important ethical questions about the feasibility and consequences of such actions. While some argue that relocation can help save species, others raise concerns ...
A University of Hawaii at Manoa researcher has co-authored a study finding that tennis players' grunts negatively affect opponents' response times and accuracy during matches. The study suggests that advanced players may have developed strategies to mitigate the effects, but its findings are likely to be significant on faster surfaces.
Researchers have discovered that over-activation of the c-Abl protein can shut down parkin's protective function, leading to a build-up of toxic proteins and neuron death. Inhibiting c-Abl with existing drugs like imatinib may provide a new treatment approach for Parkinson's disease.
A new USDA study shows that less than 25% of non-federal rangelands have significant land degradation, while nearly 50% are affected by invasive non-native grasses and shrubs. The research provides valuable information for conservation efforts and sets a baseline for monitoring western rangeland health.
Reducing nicotine in cigarettes to non-addictive levels could dramatically reduce smoking-related deaths, according to six leading experts. The strategy has the potential to prevent adolescent experimentation with cigarettes and reduce dependence on tobacco among addicted smokers.
Robert Langer will receive the Founders Award for his contributions to drug delivery and tissue engineering, while Anita Jones will receive the Arthur M. Bueche Award for leadership in science and technology policy. The awards recognize outstanding achievements that have benefited society.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine used mice engineered to lack specific molecules to show that growth hormone controls skeletal muscle development via IGF-1, but not nutrient uptake. This study provides insights into the use of growth hormone or analogs for promoting muscle development and reducing muscle loss.
A new study found lower glutamate levels in the hippocampus associated with increased dopamine activity, suggesting a risk marker for later psychotic disorders. The abnormal relationship between glutamatergic and dopaminergic systems may support early treatment of psychosis.
Researchers discovered that lipopolysaccharide and polyI:C stimulate factor B production in macrophages through distinct but overlapping mechanisms. This finding highlights the complexity of the immune system and its redundancy, enabling it to counter bacterial and viral strategies.
Researchers at UC Riverside have sequenced the genome of Culex quinquefasciatus, a mosquito that spreads West Nile virus and other diseases. The study provides insights into the genetic makeup of the mosquito and could lead to novel strategies for preventing disease transmission.
The University of Louisville School of Nursing has received a $792,000 grant to create a comprehensive nursing informatics education program. The program will prepare students for the increasing use of technology in healthcare and provide continuing education for practicing nurses.
Researchers discovered a genetic alteration in the NR5A1 gene that disrupts sperm production, accounting for approximately 4% of cases of unexplained male infertility. The study suggests that these mutations may indicate mild abnormalities in testicular development, highlighting the need for further clinical investigation.
The National Science Foundation (NSF) has awarded $10 million to build and operate PRObE, a one-of-a-kind computer systems research center in Los Alamos. The center will provide large-scale systems research capabilities, targeting high-performance and data-intensive computing.
The NIH has awarded a $7.7 million grant to Arizona State University to unravel the structures of membrane proteins that play a key role in protecting against infectious diseases. The ASU center will target membrane proteins of key viral and bacterial pathogens, their infectious pathways and molecules involved in host defense.
USDA scientists have identified several black aspergilli species capable of infecting corn and peanuts, producing mycotoxins like ochratoxin. The research supports food safety, highlighting the need to monitor for potential pathogens in crops.
A team of scientists, led by URI oceanography professor Steven D'Hondt, will embark on a nine-week expedition to the South Pacific Gyre to drill into the basaltic basement and search for evidence of life. The team aims to test whether microbial communities can be sustained by hydrogen released from radioactive water decay.
The NIH Director's Transformative Research Projects (T-R01) award program provides funding for exceptionally innovative research ideas that have the potential for extraordinary impact. The program allows investigators to sidestep conventional stumbling blocks and propose daring ideas.
Researchers have developed a new way to peer into the inner workings of proteins and detect specific atoms at work. By analyzing myoglobin's structure and motion, they identified the critical amino acid controlling oxygen binding, with implications for custom-crafted proteins and biotechnologies.
A team of researchers has discovered genetic changes in glioblastoma, a common type of primary brain cancer, that contribute to its aggressiveness. The study found that tumors with rearrangements in receptor genes are more common than previously thought, suggesting new targets for therapies.
A team of chemists used artificial neural networks to analyze tea leaves' mineral content and identify the type of tea. The technique achieved a high accuracy rate, allowing for clear differentiation between white, green, black, Oolong, and red tea varieties.
CWRU researcher Erin Lavik is developing synthetic platelets using nanotechnology to treat traumatic injuries. Her lab aims to fine-tune the artificial platelets and integrate them with drug delivery systems.
A recent study published in Mass Communication & Society found that TV viewing can lead to increased concern about personal health and reduce satisfaction with life. People who watch more TV are more likely to believe they are at risk for health problems, even if the shows are fictional, and may become disillusioned with life as a result.
Researchers aim to create more effective aerial vehicles by studying how animals sense their surroundings, enabling them to navigate in low-light conditions and around moving objects. The project seeks to balance short-term navigation with long-term goals, such as reaching a final destination.
Researchers discovered a reservoir of rapidly replicating Salmonella inside epithelial cells, which are then pushed out into the gut cavity, triggering an inflammatory response. This understanding may lead to a treatment that prevents the spread of infection and sheds light on the mechanisms behind acute intestinal inflammation.
Researchers from McGill University have discovered that mutations in the SCARF2 gene are responsible for Van Den Ende-Gupta syndrome, an extremely rare genetic disorder characterized by unique head and facial features. The study utilized a high-tech genome analyzing machine to quickly sequence coding portions of the human genome and id...
A recent study found that South Asian kidney transplant recipients experience a significantly higher risk of heart problems post-transplant. The research identified ethnicity as a key risk factor for cardiovascular events in this population, highlighting the need for tailored care and registry categories.
Researchers have discovered that RD114 envelope proteins can effectively pseudotype lentiviral vectors, offering an attractive alternative to VSV-G. This technology has the potential to enhance gene therapy approaches by increasing transduction efficiency and stability.
Researchers mapped infection-response genes in Culex quinquefasciatus to better understand its role in transmitting diseases such as West Nile virus and lymphatic filariasis. The study aims to broaden the understanding of immunity genes beyond those expected, potentially providing a new approach to controlling mosquito-borne diseases.
Children with dog allergies who own a dog before age 1 are less likely to develop eczema by age 4, while cat ownership increases the risk among those allergic to cats. The study suggests parents consider pet choice when caring for at-risk children.
Researchers found that 10 out of 17 Veronica species in New Zealand's alpine environment exhibit hygrochasy, a type of seed dispersal mechanism that combines plant movement with moisture response. The study challenges the traditional view of plant movement and highlights the diversity of plant adaptations to environmental conditions.
A study published in Experimental Brain Research reveals that chronic impingement syndrome, a common cause of shoulder pain, is triggered by excessive activation of specific neck and shoulder muscles during daily life or sports. The research opens the door to future tests of physiotherapy as a non-invasive treatment for shoulder injury.
Transorbital neuroendoscopic surgery (TONES) is a safe and effective treatment for advanced brain diseases and traumatic injuries. By performing surgery through the eye socket, surgeons can gain equivalent access to the front of the brain while eliminating large ear-to-ear scars associated with major brain surgery.
A randomized trial found that HPV DNA-based screening and cryotherapy significantly reduced high-grade cervical cancer precursors in unscreened South African women. The study suggests that a 'screen-and-treat' approach can be an effective cervical cancer prevention strategy, especially in low-resource settings.
Researchers have sequenced the genome of Culex quinquefasciatus, a mosquito species that transmits West Nile virus. The study provides insights into disease transmission and offers a platform for comparative studies to investigate interactions between viruses and mosquitoes.
Researchers have uncovered a key mechanism in which leukemia cells trigger a protective response when exposed to histone deacetylase inhibitors. By disrupting this pathway, the cancer-killing capacity of HDACIs can be increased dramatically.
Menstrual blood-derived stem cells may aid in brain repair following stroke, with no risk of creating tumors. The study aims to advance the clinical application of self-donor cell therapy for stroke patients.