A new study estimates that over 125 million global pregnancies are at risk from malaria every year, representing 60% of all pregnancies globally. The study provides a reliable estimate of the numbers at risk globally and will inform policy decisions for research and control efforts.
Evolutionary theory is being applied to various medical questions, from aging and mental illnesses to cancer and antibiotic resistance. Future physicians may face tests on evolution, with increased emphasis on incorporating evolutionary concepts into medical practice.
A recent study found that young women and teenage girls are targeted by male partners attempting to sabotage birth control or coerce pregnancy, frequently associated with physical or sexual violence. The risk of unintended pregnancy doubles when women experience both reproductive coercion and partner violence.
A device created by UIC geoscientists simulates extreme sea floor conditions in a lab chamber, allowing scientists to examine samples under harsh conditions using X-ray diffraction. The device can simulate deep-sea pressure and temperatures, enabling the study of mineral formation, clay mineralogy, and hydrothermal systems.
A joint team from the University of Kansas and Northeastern University found that microraptor's four wings allowed for successful gliding. The study suggests that birds evolved flight above the ground, not as a terrestrial adaptation.
A new study finds that machine perfusion preserves donor livers as well as cold storage, reducing hospital stays and long-term complications. This technique could expand the pool of available organs for transplantation.
Researchers discovered a genetic locus in cichlids that determines left or right jaw asymmetry, providing a distinct feeding advantage. The study found that these lopsided fish develop mouths directed to the left or right, enabling them to feed on the opposite side of their prey.
A new study published by the American Psychological Association finds psychodynamic psychotherapy to be highly effective in alleviating mental health symptoms, with benefits persisting after treatment has ended. The therapy's focus on self-reflection and examining relationship patterns leads to substantial treatment benefits.
A new study by University of Virginia psychologists suggests that well-adapted youth with positive friendships will use social media to further enhance their relationships. However, teens with behavioral problems and difficulty making friends may use social media in negative ways or not at all.
A year-long study found that a low-carbohydrate diet was more effective at lowering blood pressure than the weight-loss drug orlistat. Participants in the low-carbohydrate group experienced a significant reduction in systolic blood pressure, with nearly half seeing their medication decreased or discontinued.
The study found that basic emotions are shared by all humans, with laughter being a universally recognisable sound. The researchers used a short story with different emotional sounds to test participants from Britain and Namibia.
A study challenges the prevailing belief that a key human protein linked to cancer needs a partner to function, revealing it can initiate processes on its own. The researchers used high-resolution microscopy techniques to observe proteins in living cells and found that the protein's activation rate is directly linked to its nuclear entry.
A team of University of Chicago scientists has developed a new micro-western array technology that enables the examination of hundreds of proteins simultaneously. This breakthrough may lead to more precise diagnoses and individualized treatments for cancers and other diseases.
Researchers at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute discovered a gene activity signature predicting high cancer recurrence risk in breast tumors treated with chemotherapy drugs. The study suggests that these tumors may still be vulnerable to other types of chemotherapy agents.
A study published in Nature Structural & Molecular Biology reveals that a genetic mutation disrupts an array of metabolic pathways in muscle cells by affecting two key proteins. The loss of either protein accounts for most molecular abnormalities associated with the disease, while loss of both also seems to play an important role.
Researchers at the University of Western Ontario used state-of-the-art micro-computed tomography systems to collect detailed 3D scans of bat internal anatomy. The study identified a unique bone connection that distinguishes bats using laryngeal echolocation from those using tongue clicks.
Researchers discovered that two related photoreceptor proteins found in monarch butterflies can mediate magnetoreception by an unconventional photochemical mechanism. The study provides the first genetic evidence for a vertebrate-like Cry protein functioning as a magnetoreceptor in animals.
Researchers at the University of Utah have found that natural cavities in polymers can act like mirrors in light-emitting materials, generating 'random' lasers. This discovery could lead to new applications in cancer diagnosis and other fields.
A recent study found that midwife toads living in mountain regions are highly susceptible to a serious fungal infection called chytridiomycosis, which can lead to up to 100% mortality rates. Conservationists may be able to limit the impact of the disease by ensuring tourists do not transfer it between lakes.
Researchers at the Southwest Research Institute suggest that differences in cometary impacts and melting patterns explain Ganymede and Callisto's distinct surfaces. The study reveals that Ganymede received more intense impacts, leading to deeper melting and a heavier core.
A new experiment has confirmed that a levitating magnet can create a dense plasma, a crucial step in achieving fusion reactions. The findings offer a potential new path to fusion energy, which could provide a long-term solution to the planet's energy needs without contributing to global warming.
A new study from the University of Illinois found that driving impairs language skills, including comprehension and speech production. Participants who drove while being told stories remembered only 20% of what was said to them.
Michigan State University scientists found that diverse biofuel plantings attract more beneficial insects than single crops like corn. The research suggests that biofuel policies should consider the added benefits of insect attraction to inform policy decisions.
Cyclone Magda made landfall in northern Australia, with NASA's Terra satellite capturing a clear image of the storm. The heaviest rain is located on the western half of the system, but those thunderstorms are weakening.
Recent enhancements to Autologous Chondrocyte Implantation (ACI) therapy, such as matrix-assisted ACI (MACI), show promise in repairing cartilaginous tissue. These therapies may help delay or prevent the need for total joint replacement in OA patients.
The University of Chicago has established a new center for chemical innovation to pursue research on non-equilibrium chemistry, materials growth, and reactions in liquids. The center aims to develop new ways to convert methane into synthesis gas, producing liquid fuels and hydrogen.
A new study suggests that flu can increase susceptibility to secondary bacterial super-infections, which can lead to high mortality rates. The research found a lethal synergy between the influenza virus and Haemophilus influenzae, mediated by innate immunity, and highlights the need for early antiviral and antibiotic treatment.
The Rochester Institute of Technology is using a high-tech imaging system to map the damage in Haiti and provide critical insight for recovery efforts. The system, which combines thermal imaging and LIDAR technology, is being used to detect fires, chemical spills, and surface contamination.
A recent study found that chlorophyll and chlorophyllin can reverse the effects of aflatoxin poisoning by limiting its bioavailability. The research, led by DOE/Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory scientists, suggests that consuming greens may be a way to prevent long-term exposure to carcinogenic mycotoxins.
A study at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory has identified three molecular factors that contribute to high levels of PK-M2 in cancer cells, which promotes rapid cell proliferation and tumor growth. The researchers found that forcing a reduction in the levels of these factors could reverse the Warburg effect and restore normal metabolism.
Researchers at Karolinska Institutet have created a genetically modified mouse that can walk when exposed to blue light. The study provides insight into the neural control of locomotion and has potential implications for treating spinal cord injuries.
Two recent studies identified regions with higher than expected numbers of autism cases in California, strongly associated with higher parental education and proximity to specialty research centers. Ongoing studies exploring environmental exposures and social factors will help uncover the causes of these clustering.
A new computer algorithm developed by researchers at Argonne National Laboratory allows scientists to view nuclear fission in much finer detail than ever before. The code has already produced new scientific results through highly detailed simulations of the Zero Power Reactor experiments on powerful supercomputers.
Researchers tracked a virulent strain of MRSA using genome sequencing, shedding light on its spread between South America, Europe, and Southeast Asia. The study reveals the bacteria's evolutionary history and patient-to-patient transmission within a single hospital.
A new study reveals that genital herpes virus type 2 (HSV-2) frequently reactsivate in the entire genital tract, rather than just one specific area. This finding has important implications for treatment and prevention strategies, suggesting a need for comprehensive approaches to suppress and limit transmission.
Researchers found no increased mortality risk among trauma patients presenting on nights and weekends, unlike other critically ill patients. Trauma centers' 24/7 staffing ensures consistent care regardless of time of presentation.
Researchers have discovered that environmental cues can lead to breast cancer, while Wnt signaling plays a key role in a rare skin disease. Additionally, chronic morphine use has been found to delay wound healing due to immunosuppression and impaired immune cell recruitment.
A new study found that using procalcitonin levels to prescribe antibiotics in intensive care units can reduce antibiotic exposure while maintaining patient safety. The study showed a significant reduction in antibiotic-free days among patients treated with procalcitonin.
The Comprehensive Center of Excellence in Disparities Research and Community Engagement (CEDREC) will engage in collaborative research and outreach programs aimed at addressing health disparities. CEDREC will focus on improving the health of medically underserved African-Americans in Central Harlem and the South Bronx, where one in thr...
The TRMM satellite provided a three-dimensional view of tropical cyclone Magda, showing its eye and powerful thunderstorms. The data revealed hurricane-force winds and intense rainfall rates over 50mm per hour.
Scientists have successfully imaged vesicles and filaments involved in neuronal communication, revealing crucial role of filamentous structures in regulating neurotransmitter release. The 3D images were obtained using electron cryotomography, a novel method that rapidly freezes cells while preserving biological structures.
The report highlights the need to increase support for Framework Convention on Tobacco Control, raise tobacco taxes, and provide comprehensive treatment for tobacco dependence. Decreasing tobacco advertising, promoting health warnings, and regulating products are also key recommendations to reduce tobacco use.
A study published in the Journal of Vision found that outfielders catch fly balls by tracking optical acceleration, rather than predicting the ball's trajectory. The research used a virtual environment to test three major theories of fly catching, and confirmed that baseball players continuously track the ball and run forward or backwa...
A recent study found that individuals with ECGs prior to hospital arrival experienced significantly reduced door-to-balloon times. This advanced assessment allowed patients to bypass ER and receive reperfusion treatment in the cardiac catheterization laboratory, resulting in lower mortality rates.
A study by University of Aberdeen researchers found that mentally traveling through time can physically move us. Engaging in chronesthesia, or mental time travel, resulted in movements corresponding to the metaphorical direction of time.
A Notre Dame study highlights the role of dynamic motion by proteins involved in the body's immune response. The research found that different antigens produce distinct motions, complicating but also simplifying recognition by T-cell receptors.
Researchers at the University of Melbourne discovered a type of cell that causes T cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia in children. Targeting these cells could reduce treatment length and toxicity, leading to better patient outcomes.
The BC Centre for Disease Control has launched a genomic surveillance project to study the evolution of the pandemic H1N1 flu virus in British Columbia. Researchers will compare the genetic sequences of BC's influenza viruses with those from other regions to understand how mass gatherings like the Olympics impact the virus' evolution.
A study led by NYSCF Fellow Daylon James has generated a human embryonic stem cell line to measure and boost endothelial cell production, establishing a standard methodology for producing functional endothelial cells from hESCs. The cells can now be used for pre-clinical assessment of vascular disease in large animal models.
Tropical Storm Magda is expected to bring gusty winds of up to 93 mph and heavy rainfall to coastal areas in North Western Australia. The storm's center is predicted to make landfall on January 22, with the potential for flooding in low-lying areas.
A study published in BMC Ecology found that rescued chimpanzees in Cameroon are from the same region, suggesting local trade is a significant issue. The research also revealed that protected areas are being targeted for poaching, highlighting the need for conservation efforts to protect endangered subspecies.
A study published in the American Journal of Roentgenology found that a simple educational intervention and routing patients to V/Q scanning or CTPA based on chest X-ray results significantly reduced CT scan usage and radiation exposure. The medical center saw a 20% reduction in radiation dose from 8.0 mSv to 6.4 mSv.
Researchers found that handheld devices like PDAs and iPod Touch can display medical images accurately, comparable to secondary monitors, with significant benefits for teleconsultation and emergency procedures.
Researchers from Singapore's A*STAR report a novel transcription factor, Nr5a2, can replace classical reprogramming factors to increase iPS cell efficiency. This breakthrough has significant implications for cell-therapy-based medicine and the creation of organs for replacement or transplantation.
A study by Pitt researchers reveals that organizing products tailored to customers' knowledge levels can improve consumers' learning and satisfaction. Highly knowledgeable consumers preferred novel product formats, while novice consumers benefited from familiar groupings.
Researchers discovered a noninvasive contrast-enhanced ultrasound imaging technique that can aid in the detection of early-stage ovarian cancer when combined with proteomic blood analyses. This method has shown high accuracy and the potential to save lives by detecting disease at an early stage.
Researchers found striking relationships between language demographics and grammatical complexity. Languages with larger populations tend to have simpler pronoun and number systems. The study proposes the Linguistic Niche Hypothesis, where languages evolve within socio-demographic niches.
Researchers developed a new method to precisely track MRSA transmission in hospitals, enabling understanding of strain spread and leading to novel infection control strategies. The team used DNA sequencing technologies to compare individual isolates and identify genetic relatedness.
Scientists discovered that tobacco plants alter their flower opening time in response to insect herbivory, reducing scent emission and attracting hummingbirds as an alternative pollinator. This adaptation helps protect the plant from harm while still allowing for fertilization and reproduction.
Agricultural Research Service scientist Peggy Tomasula has written a chapter on using dairy ingredients to produce edible films and biodegradable packaging materials. The research focuses on improving the water-vapor barrier properties of dairy proteins, such as casein and whey.