A systematic review and meta-analysis found that second-hand smoke exposure doubles the likelihood of invasive meningococcal disease in children, with strongest effects seen in youngest age groups. The study suggests reducing second-hand smoke exposure can reduce deaths and illness caused by invasive bacterial diseases.
Research reveals that technology companies are targeting the US International Trade Commission (ITC) over federal district courts for smart-phone patent disputes due to its speed and expertise. The ITC's specialization in patent issues and streamlined procedure make it an attractive option for companies seeking a quick decision.
Researchers at Southern Methodist University and The University of Texas at Dallas have discovered a family of small molecules that protect brain cells against nerve-degenerative diseases. The compounds, developed by SMU and UT Dallas scientists, showed promise in tissue culture models and animal models of neurodegeneration.
A CCNY professor has received a $1.3 million grant to develop an artificial blood substitute that can be administered to injured troops on the battlefield. The artificial hemoglobin binds oxygen in the presence of carbon monoxide, potentially preventing or treating carbon monoxide poisoning.
Researchers are working on four different projects: studying MTB infection, analyzing latent infection in humans, improving chemotherapy for glioblastoma multiforme, and exploring gene modification for stem cell selection. The funding will support a multidisciplinary team of experts in proteomics, genetic epidemiology, and cytokine bio...
The study will explore the compound's effects on post-meal blood glucose metabolism in individuals with impaired glucose tolerance. Results could provide critical information for planning and conducting more definitive studies of resveratrol in diabetes prevention and treatment.
The European Society of Cardiology stresses that lifestyle factors such as poor diet, lack of exercise, and smoking are major contributors to heart disease. The summit advocates for a harmonized strategy to prevent cardiovascular disease through policies supporting healthy lifestyles.
The Making It Happen programme, supported by UK's Department for International Development and UNICEF, trains healthcare providers in Africa and Asia to reduce maternal and newborn mortality and morbidity. The programme has already trained over 3000 health care providers, leading to improved clinical practices and reduced deaths.
System 94B is creating heavy rainfall near India's southeastern coast with strong wind shear pushing convection northwest of its center. Heavy rain has been reported in the state of Tamil Nadu, with intense storms producing over 50mm/hr rainfall.
A new Cochrane review confirms vitamin A supplementation programmes in developing countries effectively reduce measles and diarrhoea incidence, saving thousands of lives. Researchers recommend continued use but emphasize the need for long-term solutions like fortification and dietary diversification.
Researchers at Caltech, with support from the Air Force Office of Scientific Research, have found that flies follow horizontal edges to regulate altitude, unlike earlier studies suggesting they measure motion beneath them. This edge-following behavior is similar to their steering mechanism and relies heavily on vision.
A recent study found that not all movie-watching experiences are enjoyable, with some films inducing emotional discomfort due to graphic content or disturbing themes. The presence of family members or unknown individuals can also impact viewer satisfaction.
A study by Michigan State University associate professor Elena Litchman reveals the potential impact of invisible microbial invaders on terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems. Climate change is expected to exacerbate microbial invasions, leading to significant ecosystem changes.
Scientists at Umeå Plant Science Center and Syngenta have discovered a previously unknown gene in sugar beets that inhibits blooming. This discovery enables the control of flowering time in biennial sugar beets, allowing for increased yields and extended harvesting periods.
Recent studies reveal a rise in dual-resistance among certain influenza viruses, their increased transmission, and the limited availability of alternative treatment options. This poses significant public health concerns.
A new theory of energy transfer in photosynthesis is being developed based on experimental findings that challenge the traditional dipole-based mechanism. Energy is rapidly and efficiently transferred when dipoles are orthogonally disposed, contrary to previous assumptions.
A new study suggests that using fecal immunochemical testing between colonoscopies can detect colorectal cancer and advanced tumors in high-risk patients. The test detected 12 out of 14 cancers and 60 out of 96 advanced adenomas, reducing the chance of finding cancer or advanced adenoma by 50%.
Researchers at the University of Rochester Medical Center have created a way to isolate pure preparations of neural stem cells directly from human brain tissue. This breakthrough technique saves months of time and labor in the laboratory, allowing scientists to study stem cells in unprecedented detail. The findings suggest that human n...
Patients receiving mechanical ventilation may benefit from listening to music, which can relax them and reduce anxiety, heart rate, and breathing rate. The review of eight trials involving 213 patients found that music listening may be a promising stress management tool for critically ill patients.
A study by Ohio State University found that over 80% of restaurant patrons in Columbus would pay more for an environmentally friendly dining experience. Customers value green practices such as reducing energy usage and serving locally grown food.
Researchers at Tufts University discovered bioactive peptides that stimulate the healing process by promoting angiogenesis and epithelialization. The peptides, synthesized from collagenase treatment of extracellular matrix, show promise in treating acute and chronic wound healing.
A study by Thomas Land and colleagues found that use of tobacco cessation medication led to reduced hospital admissions for heart attacks and coronary atherosclerosis within two years. Smoking prevalence among subscribers declined by approximately 10% after the adoption of comprehensive coverage of tobacco cessation medications.
Researchers have developed a micromirror-based beam steering system that can precisely control individual atoms using tiny laser pulses. This technology has the potential to enable more efficient and accurate quantum computing applications.
A study by Shannon Rogers and her team found that living in a walkable neighborhood is associated with increased civic involvement, trust, and social connections. Residents in more walkable areas reported better health, happiness, and community involvement.
A study by U of A Psychology researcher Peter Hurd found that less sensitive genes were associated with more aggressive behaviour, suggesting a possible link between fetal testosterone exposure and adult social behavior. The researchers also discovered subtle forms of aggression, such as indirect aggression through gossip-like behaviors.
A new study published in the American Sociological Review found that friendships built in religious congregations are a secret ingredient in religion that leads to life satisfaction. The research suggests that people who attend church regularly and have close friends within their congregation report higher levels of happiness.
A recent roundtable discussion sponsored by GEN explored biological methods for improving marine environment understanding, assessing oil spill impact, and monitoring remediation. The event brought together scientists from academia and industry to discuss the effectiveness of these approaches.
A new Cochrane Systematic Review finds sublingual immunotherapy significantly reduces symptoms of allergic rhinitis and medication requirements. The treatment has very few serious adverse effects and is effective in children, offering a convenient alternative to injection immunotherapy.
Researchers found that private insurance paid for healthcare costs in the under-65 population significantly reduced disparities in per-capita Medicare healthcare spending between McAllen and El Paso. For this age group, inpatient admissions were 89% higher in McAllen than El Paso, but outpatient medical service spending was 22% lower.
Women with ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) who undergo radiotherapy after surgery experience a significant reduction in local cancer recurrences and invasive disease, with the effect lasting long-term. Treatment with tamoxifen also reduces recurrence rates, particularly in the opposite breast.
Researchers at King's College London are creating a mathematical model to measure personal exposure to traffic pollution, allowing individuals to adapt their journeys and reduce harmful emissions. The project will also study the effects of different particles on human health, leading to more focused traffic planning.
A Purdue University research team developed a nanoparticle that can hold and release an antimicrobial agent, preserving its effectiveness against Listeria monocytogenes for up to three weeks. The nanoparticle attracts and stabilizes nisin, a food-based antimicrobial peptide, allowing for extended use in foods susceptible to Listeria.
Polar research is fragmented in Europe, requiring mainstreaming into the European Research Area to address global scientific questions and climate change impacts. The European Polar Board urges a broad strategy for investment in research activities for long-term European benefit.
A new study reveals that antibiotics in agricultural areas can contaminate water sources, potentially contributing to the spread of antibiotic resistance genes. Researchers at Virginia Tech have identified patterns of antibiotic resistance gene occurrence in a Colorado watershed, suggesting that specific manmade sources can be traced.
A clinical trial testing RG7112 has shown clinical activity and effectiveness in some patients with leukemia, including one patient in complete remission. The study suggests a potential new way to fight certain types of cancer with fewer side effects.
A University of Cincinnati study reveals that helicopter emergency medical services can delay treatment for STEMI heart attack patients. The study found that only a few patients received treatment within the recommended 30-minute goal, highlighting the need for streamlined systems to reduce transfer times.
The Mayo Clinic Health Policy Center hosted a symposium on high-value health care, emphasizing the need for payment reform and collaborative approaches. Panelists stressed the importance of integrated care, ACOs, and electronic health records in achieving better health outcomes.
A study found that people open to new experiences, particularly those high in openness, tend to feel chills while listening to music. They are also more likely to play musical instruments and rate music as important in their lives.
Research found that sleep deprivation eliminates fear-associated memories through both fear recognition and physiological fear reactions. This suggests a possible therapy for individuals with PTSD or other anxiety disorders.
Researchers monitoring people with cryptogenic strokes for intermittent atrial fibrillation aim to prevent future strokes. The CRYSTAL AF trial uses an FDA-approved implanted cardiac monitor to detect arrhythmia and guide treatment.
Vanderbilt University researchers are developing a robot system called TriageBot to assist in emergency room triage, collect medical data, and provide tentative diagnoses. The system aims to reduce wait times, alleviate staff strain, and minimize errors.
A new study challenges the traditional prisoner's dilemma paradigm by suggesting that incentives to cooperate can minimize conflict and change the game from pure conflict to partial cooperation. The research, published in Proceedings of the Royal Society B, finds that payoffs from social interactions can evolve under certain conditions...
Researchers at University of British Columbia develop a lipid-based formulation of Amphotericin B, stabilizing the drug in tropical temperatures and making it more accessible for treating Visceral Leishmaniasis. The new oral formulation is effective in mouse models and has the potential to bring relief to millions affected by the disease.
Research by University of Wisconsin-Madison professor Pamela Herd shows that higher academic performance in high school is critical for better health throughout life. The study found a link between high school rank and late-life health, suggesting that emphasizing test scores over academic performance may have negative consequences.
A recent study found that individuals in high-powered jobs that don't align with their gender are more likely to be judged less competently and face greater scrutiny for mistakes. This phenomenon, known as the glass cliff, can hinder women's career advancement in traditionally male roles.
A new UCLA study reveals that mandatory genetic screening of newborns for rare diseases is creating unexpected upheaval for families whose infants test positive but show no immediate signs of the diseases. The study found that these families are often left in a state of uncertainty, with parents experiencing anxiety and trauma as they ...
A study published in Archives of General Psychiatry suggests that a loss of healthy bacteria due to modern sanitation may contribute to the increasing rates of depression. Experiments are being conducted to test treatments using properties of these beneficial microorganisms, aiming to improve emotional tolerance.
Researchers at the University of Texas at Austin have discovered a long, non-coding RNA molecule, COLDAIR, that helps plants remember winter and bloom in spring. This process, known as vernalization, allows plants to recognize longer periods of cold and adjust their flowering schedules accordingly.
Researchers at UC Davis and MIT used synchrotron radiation to show how nitric oxide breaks down iron-sulfur clusters in proteins, a vital process for all living organisms. The study provides insights into nitric oxide toxicity and could lead to new antimicrobial agents.
Researchers discovered that melanopsin-expressing retinal ganglion cells contribute to conventional image-forming vision, particularly brightness perception. This finding suggests these cells could support vision in people with advanced retinal degeneration.
A study found that integrating smoking cessation treatment with mental health care for PTSD resulted in higher rates of prolonged smoking abstinence among military veterans. The treatment, known as integrated care (IC), was more effective than referral to specialized cessation treatment.
A high school senior from Indiana collaborated with a professor and graduate student on a top-tier peer-reviewed scientific journal, publishing a study on PT-symmetric phases in a tight-binding chain. The research was made possible by new mathematical computing software with user-friendly interfaces.
A study found that low-dose aspirin use is associated with improved sensitivity and specificity of fecal occult blood tests in detecting advanced colorectal tumors. The findings suggest that temporary use of low-dose aspirin may enhance test performance, but further research is needed to confirm the results.
The Center for Structural Genomics of Infectious Diseases and the Seattle Structural Genomics Center have experimentally determined 500 three-dimensional protein structures from bacterial and protozoan pathogens. These structures could lead to the development of new drugs, vaccines, and diagnostics to combat deadly infectious diseases.
The Asthma Self-Management for Adolescents (ASMA) program, an eight-week intervention, significantly improves asthma management and quality of life among participating students. ASMA participants reported reduced asthma-related activity restrictions, emergency department visits, and hospitalizations.
A new blood test can detect cardiac troponin T levels in 25% of seemingly healthy individuals, indicating an increased risk of dying from heart disease. The test's results showed that those with elevated troponin T levels were nearly seven times more likely to die within six years.
Researchers found that UV light activates an enzyme called protein kinase D, which helps skin cancer cells survive and proliferate. This discovery suggests a new target for treating non-melanoma skin cancers, with potential benefits for the millions of people diagnosed annually in the US.
A new study by University of Kansas researcher ChangHwan Kim reveals that U.S. employers fail to pay Asian-American men equally, with native-born Asians earning 8% less than whites. Meanwhile, only 1.5-generation Asian-American men have achieved earnings parity with white men.
Researchers aim to create new therapeutics using novel insight into fat metabolism, targeting a type of fat cell that burns calories and reduces weight. The study builds on key discoveries about brown fat, a molecular furnace that generates heat by burning calories.
Researchers have found a vast microbial ecosystem in the porous basalt rock of the upper oceanic crust, producing organic matter and exporting carbon to other systems. The discovery may influence astrobiological thinking about life on Europa and expand our understanding of the oceanic carbon cycle.