A study found that antibiotics prolong survival but do not improve comfort for patients with terminal dementia and pneumonia. Aggressive treatment can cause greater discomfort, suggesting a need to balance survival and comfort goals.
Researchers found that hearing the name of an object improves participants' ability to see it, even when flashed onscreen in conditions that render it invisible. The effect was specific to language and did not depend on visual preview or pre-experiment familiarity with the target.
Chen, a renowned scholar, has been recognized for his tireless efforts to apply research to policy making. He has participated in numerous White House Conferences and presented testimony to congressional committees.
A Kaiser Permanente study found that women who developed gestational diabetes during their first and second pregnancies have a higher risk of developing it again. Hispanic and Asian Pacific Islander women are particularly at risk compared to white counterparts.
A study by researchers at St. Michael's Hospital found that a five-minute advice session at the nine-month well baby checkup can lead to a dramatic drop in babies still using bottles at age two. Most stop using the bottle by their first birthday, compared to 16 months for those who received no instruction.
New research evaluating nine popular slimming supplements found no evidence that they facilitate weight loss beyond the placebo effect. The studies, led by Dr. Thomas Ellrott and Dr. Igho Onakpoya, tested various supplements against placebo pills in randomized controlled trials.
Tropical Storm Conson has formed in the northwestern Pacific Ocean with maximum sustained winds near 60 knots (69 mph) and is forecast to make landfall on July 13. The storm's track is expected to take it north-northwest over the next couple of days, bringing heavy rainfall and gusty winds to the northern Philippines.
Companies that prioritize sustainable management of biodiversity are seen as winners in resource-constrained worlds, while those neglecting it risk being out of step with the market. Consumers are increasingly aware of biodiversity loss and are willing to stop buying from companies disregarding ethical sourcing practices.
Over half of UK swine flu hospital admissions and inpatient deaths were from people with no underlying health issues or obvious risk factors. The data support the government's priority vaccination strategy for high-risk groups, but also suggest that everyone with asthma might benefit from vaccination.
A study by Johns Hopkins University researchers confirms IGF-1's crucial role in coordinating puberty onset in mice. Administration of IGF-1 to normal female mice triggered pubertal development, highlighting its importance in timely triggering of pulsatile GnRH production.
Researchers from A*STAR made three groundbreaking discoveries in fight against cancer: a mechanism to prevent metastasis, biomarkers for breast cancer, and improved detection of cervical cancer. Their work sheds light on key areas of cancer research, offering new strategies to combat this devastating disease.
A team of investigators has identified a series of proteins that may make it easier to diagnose the more metastatic forms of prostate cancer. The study uncovers a protein named Siah2, which initiates a cascade of molecular events that turns a non-malignant tumor into a metastatic neuroendocrine tumor.
Chagas disease affects 10-12 million people in Latin America, killing 15,000 annually. Dogs can spread the disease and may help control it by acting as sentinels for health officials.
A new study found that those who expect unexpected events are no better at detecting them than those who don't, and may even be worse. The study used a video featuring basketball players and a gorilla, and showed that familiarity with the original experiment did not improve detection of other unexpected events.
A 29-year follow-up study of Finnish men and women found that individuals with higher vitamin D levels had a significantly lower risk of developing Parkinson's disease. The study suggests a potential link between chronic inadequacy of vitamin D and the development of Parkinson's disease.
Large mammal populations in African national parks have declined by up to 59% since 1970, with some species experiencing dramatic decreases. Despite this, improved management and conservation efforts in southern Africa offer a glimmer of hope for the long-term survival of these iconic species.
A study found that the human brain regions growing during infancy and childhood are similar to those with the most changes when comparing humans to apes and monkeys. This research helps assess adverse effects of premature birth on brain development, including increased risks of learning disabilities and cognitive impairments.
Researchers identify pedunculopontine nucleus as key brain region in Parkinson's disease-related gait disorders. Targeting acetylcholine-producing nerve cells may alleviate falls and improve walking abilities.
A study found that deleting a viral element from human genes can increase production of fetal hemoglobin in red blood cells, which could help alleviate symptoms of sickle cell disease. The researchers believe this natural mechanism may be the key to developing targeted therapies for patients.
Researchers at Boston Children's Hospital have discovered a new epigenetic player that affects gene activity in boys with X-linked mental retardation and facial birth defects. The study reveals an enzyme, PHF8, works to maintain active gene transcription.
Dr. Hui Shao has received a grant from the Research to Prevent Blindness organization to study Sjogren's syndrome, a chronic autoimmune disease affecting millions of Americans. Her team has discovered a protein called Klk22, which may play a role in the development of the disease.
Ada C. Mui, PhD, has been recognized for her outstanding commitment and dedication to mentoring minority researchers in the field of aging. She will receive the Task Force on Minority Issues in Gerontology Outstanding Mentorship Award at GSA's 63rd Annual Scientific Meeting.
Researchers at Biogen Idec Inc. have found that targeting the TIM-1 protein may be effective in treating asthma. The study used a humanized mouse model to show that an antibody binding to a specific region of TIM-1 reduced inflammation and airway hyperresponsiveness.
A six-month weight loss intervention program improved flushing symptoms in overweight and obese women with menopause-related hot flushes. The study found that decreases in weight, BMI, and abdominal circumference were associated with improvements in self-reported hot flushes.
A new study from North Carolina State University has developed a predictive model that can identify anomalies in large-scale hosting infrastructures, allowing for swift corrective actions and improved accuracy.
A study by neuroscientists at USC found that volunteers practicing a challenging arm movement with related tasks showed better retention of the skill. The prefrontal cortex was necessary for consolidating the memory, while constant practice focused on a single task did not retain the skill as well.
A new guideline recommends using diffusion MRI scans instead of CT scans for diagnosing acute ischemic stroke within 12 hours. MRI scans are found to be more accurate in detecting stroke damage and identifying severity, leading to faster diagnosis and treatment.
A study published in JCI Online found that targeting acetylcholine-producing nerve cells in the pedunculopontine nucleus may alleviate gait disorders and falls in Parkinson's disease patients. Meanwhile, another study suggests that blocking TIM-1 protein could provide therapeutic benefits for asthma patients.
A recent study from the University of Michigan Comprehensive Cancer Center found that head and neck cancer patients with poor sleep quality had more symptoms of chronic pain and complaints of dry mouth related to radiation treatments. The researchers suggest that reducing these factors may be warranted to improve sleep hygiene and enha...
Researchers have identified the genes necessary for producing a highly potent and clinically unexploited antibiotic, microbisporicin. The study enables the engineering of bacteria to produce similar but better molecules, improving pharmacological properties.
The new guidelines recommend daily supplements of 400 to 1000 IU for adults under 50 without osteoporosis, increasing to 800-2000 IU for those over 50. Canadians can safely take daily vitamin D supplements up to 2000 IU without medical supervision.
Researchers at Oregon State University have found that stimulating the production of fatty acid elongase-5 enzyme in mice can cure mild diet-induced diabetes. The study suggests a new approach to diabetes therapy, with potential applications for human treatment and management of related conditions like non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.
A multicentric clinical phase II study led by Professor Dr. Peter Dreger found that allogeneic stem cell transplantation significantly improved tolerance and cured nearly half of patients with therapy-resistant chronic leukemia, regardless of genetic risk profile or prior treatment outcomes.
A Johns Hopkins review of nearly 150 randomized controlled trials on children found that 40-60% of the studies failed to minimize risk for bias or properly describe those measures. The study urges pediatricians to critically read studies, asking how researchers reached conclusions and whether analysis was unbiased.
A new study found that a culturally specific intervention program based on the African concept of Eban increased condom use and reduced acts of unprotected sex among heterosexual African American couples with differing HIV status. The program aimed to improve communication, relationship health, and community respect.
Topology optimization enables creation of patient-specific, case-by-case designs for tissue-engineered bone replacements in facial reconstruction. The technique accounts for variables like blood flow and chewing forces to optimize structure and function.
Researchers developed a model predicting the architecture of nanoparticle ensembles and their properties. The findings could lead to more efficient production of nanostructures with complex architectures.
Researchers at Max Planck Institute of Neurobiology successfully establish conditions for decoding fly brain's motion vision mechanisms. They use fluorescence molecules and state-of-the-art microscopes to observe nerve cell activity, revealing that L2-cells transform data and relay information about light intensity reductions to subseq...
Scientists use topological optimization to create experimental 3D structures for facial bone replacement, which can withstand chewing forces and facilitate speaking and swallowing. The team plans to grow bone around these lightweight structures using tissue engineering techniques.
A recent study published in Neurology found that individuals with larger heads who have Alzheimer's disease tend to exhibit better memory and cognitive skills. The research suggests that brain reserve, or the individual capacity to withstand changes in the brain, plays a crucial role in protecting against Alzheimer's symptoms.
A study by UT Southwestern Medical Center found that disrupting two genes controlling circadian rhythms can lead to diabetes. The researchers discovered that mice with defective CLOCK and BMAL1 genes developed pancreatic cells unable to release sufficient amounts of insulin, leading to diabetes.
A new study suggests that drinking tart cherry juice daily can reduce insomnia severity and improve sleep efficiency in older adults. The researchers found significant reductions in reported insomnia severity and an average of 17 minutes saved on wake time after going to sleep.
Research from the Sleep Heart Health Study found that severe obstructive sleep apnea raised the risk of heart failure and coronary heart disease in men. Men with the most severe OSA faced a 58% higher risk of developing heart failure and a 68% higher risk of developing coronary heart disease compared to those without OSA.
A second-generation anti-obesity drug has shown promise in reducing body weight in rodents without causing psychiatric side effects. The drug targets peripheral tissues and organs, avoiding significant brain exposure. This finding raises the prospect of reviving CB1 receptor blockade for fighting obesity and related diseases.
Krause received the award for his book 'Aging in the Church: How Social Relationships Affect Health,' which explores the relationship between church-based social support and physical/mental health outcomes. The GSA recognized his work as state-of-the-art thinking in aging and life course development.
A study found that corporate directors tend to ignore anonymous whistleblower allegations, especially if they threaten their reputation. In contrast, non-anonymous allegations are more likely to trigger investigations and resource allocation.
A history of sexual abuse is associated with an increased risk of multiple psychiatric disorders, including depression, anxiety disorders, and post-traumatic stress disorder. The study found that survivors of rape had strengthened associations with these disorders.
Researchers have identified associations with the HLA-B51 region of the MHC and variants on chromosome 1, including a known variant of the IL10 gene. These findings suggest that low levels of IL-10 protein may be a risk factor for Behcet's disease.
A Stanford study found that arsenic trioxide can block the Hedgehog pathway, a signaling cascade involved in various cancers. The compound inhibits the expression of certain genes, making it harder for cancer cells to mutate and evade treatment.
A recent galactic survey suggests that ultralight neutrinos may be at most half as massive as initially estimated. The MegaZ DR7 map of over 700,000 galaxies indicates a reduced upper limit for neutrino mass.
The study reveals that a single squall line killed between 441 and 663 million trees across the Amazon basin, equivalent to 23% of annual carbon accumulation. The region near Manaus experienced up to 80% tree mortality in affected plots.
A new study found that overweight and obese women with hot flashes can reduce their symptoms by losing weight through diet or exercise. Half of the participants reported improvements in hot flashes after six months, with those in the active weight loss group twice as likely to see an improvement compared to the control group.
Elke Rundensteiner, a WPI computer science professor, has received the HP Labs Innovation Research Award for her work on complex event stream analytics. The award provides funding for her project to develop advanced tools for extracting meaning from vast amounts of streaming data in real-time.
A study by Dr. David J. Llewellyn found that vitamin D deficiency is associated with a higher risk of substantial general cognitive decline and new problems with mental flexibility. The research involved over 850 older adults, showing that those with severe vitamin D deficiencies were 60% more likely to experience cognitive decline.
A study by researchers from the University of British Columbia and Dalhousie University found that colorectal cancer screening can reduce mortality by 39-83% and incidence by 26-81%. Regular screening, such as fecal tests or colonoscopies every ten years, is recommended for average-risk individuals.
A study by Carnegie Institution scientists reveals that radiation drives stomatal response, rather than just humidity. This breakthrough has significant implications for weather forecasting, climate change research, and agriculture.
Researchers from the John Theurer Cancer Center have made exciting progress in elucidating the mechanisms of bortezomib in mantle cell lymphoma. The study identified biomarkers that can help guide patient selection and speed up the development of targeted cancer drugs.
A survey of infection preventionists found that half agree catheter-related bloodstream infections are a problem in their facilities due to lack of time, resources, and leadership commitment. Many hospitals have seen dramatic declines in rates but still report difficulty implementing best practices to avoid these infections.
Researchers found that online learning modules increased participant understanding of key concepts by 30% and retention rates remained high after two months. Participants valued the supplement to hands-on classes, but preferred face-to-face interaction with experts.
The University of California, Irvine will lead a groundbreaking malaria field research project in China, Myanmar, and Thailand with $4.7 million federal funding. Researchers aim to develop broader results by working with transient populations and Chinese residents near the Myanmar border.
Researchers argue that differences in body types among blacks and whites, including the location of their center of gravity, contribute to racial disparities in athletic performance. The study found black sprinters are 1.5% faster than whites due to a higher center of gravity.
A recent study found that traditional vision screening methods for adolescents often fail to detect hyperopia (farsightedness) and astigmatism. The researchers used a comprehensive eye examination to assess 2,353 year 7 students and found that no reliable cutoff point could be established for detecting these conditions.
Scientists have discovered how fungi subvert a single gene in wheat, triggering programmed cell death, which protects plants from pathogens. Researchers also developed DNA molecular markers to rapidly screen commercial cultivars for the gene, allowing for its elimination through selective breeding.
Researchers at Loyola Medicine have discovered protein acetylation, a common molecular reaction in bacteria that affects protein function and gene regulation. This finding has significant implications for understanding bacterial physiology and developing new drugs to combat harmful bacteria.
Case Western Reserve University has been named an International Center of Excellence for Malaria Research, a $7.9M seven-year grant to accelerate malaria control and elimination worldwide. The research will focus on regions where malaria is endemic in Africa, Asia, the Pacific Islands, and Latin America.
The American Orthopaedic Society for Sports Medicine (AOSSM) presents eight research awards and two grants to recognize innovative studies in orthopaedic sports medicine. This year's award recipients include researchers who have made significant contributions to the field, with highlights including studies on platelet-rich plasma, exte...
A new study by LSUHSC researchers found that fat in the liver, abdominal fat, and fat oxidation are early markers for metabolic syndrome in children. The study suggests that factors such as pregnancy weight, birth weight, and physical activity may contribute to poor metabolic function in young children.
Researchers at MIT have developed fibers that can detect and produce sound, opening up new possibilities for wearable microphones and biological sensors. The fibers use a piezoelectric material to convert vibrations into electrical signals, allowing for high-resolution sensing applications.
The University of Montreal has received $1.6 million in new funding to advance healthcare research over the next three years. The funding will support various collaborative health research projects across multiple disciplines, including physics, pharmacology, chemistry, and dentistry.
A genetic variant associated with increased expression of oncogene MYC has been identified in a gene desert, increasing prostate cancer risk. The study showcases a new protocol for studying cancer-risk variants in gene deserts and highlights the importance of regulatory sequences in controlling gene expression.
The lack of a policy in Canada hinders treatment accessibility for rare diseases, where pharmaceutical companies may hesitate due to small markets. The authors propose defining rare diseases and developing patient registries as short-term solutions.
A new study finds that self-hypnosis taught with videotape training significantly reduced tic control in children and adolescents with Tourette Syndrome. After just a few sessions, almost all participants experienced a dramatic increase in tic control.
A new study reveals that low vitamin D levels can predict the development of Parkinson's disease, with individuals having the lowest levels being three times more likely to develop the condition. Researchers are calling for public health authorities to consider raising the target vitamin D level above the current recommended level.
Researchers found that Israeli Arabs' biases towards their own group are stronger in Arabic than in Hebrew, suggesting language influences thought patterns. The study used the Implicit Association Test to measure biases in bilingual Arab Israelis.
Researchers at the University of Exeter found that using the Quiet Eye technique can significantly improve putting accuracy in golfers. This method involves focusing on a specific spot on the ball for up to 3 seconds before and during the stroke. By doing so, golfers can reduce pressure and increase their chances of sinking crucial putts.
Scientists investigate white dwarf remnants and binary systems to understand supernovae origins. However, the search for accreting white dwarfs yields few results, leading researchers to reconsider their theories.
Researchers found that sulforaphane, a broccoli compound, reduces prostate cancer risk by affecting cells lacking the PTEN gene. In these cells, sulforaphane inhibits tumor growth and competitiveness. This study suggests potential therapeutic applications of sulforaphane.
Researchers found that avatars can portray lifelike and accurate depictions of their creators' personalities within virtual worlds. The study used Second Life as its model, where community members form impressions based on avatar traits, which may accurately match the true personality behind the avatar.
Research presented at the International Conference on Emerging Infectious Diseases found that less than 5% of people covered their mouth using recommended methods during the H1N1 pandemic. Medical students observed a low prevalence of respiratory hygiene behaviors in public areas, with most people covering their mouths with their hands.
Researchers from NASA and the Byrd Polar Research Center report that a 7 square kilometer section of the Jakobshavn Isbrae glacier broke up on July 6 and 7, with the calving front retreating nearly 1.5 kilometers in one day. This event is unusual due to its rapid detection and fine detail.
Researchers found that low vitamin D levels are associated with cognitive decline in older adults, particularly in executive function. The study, which assessed 858 adults over six years, showed a 60% increased risk of substantial cognitive decline among those with severely deficient vitamin D levels.
A new study from the University of Michigan found significant variations in emotional reactions among black, white, and Hispanic caregivers of Alzheimer's patients. The research suggests that racial and ethnic differences play a crucial role in shaping their grieving experiences.
Researchers at UCLA's Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center created a large battalion of tumor-seeking immune system cells that can locate and attack melanomas in real-time. The genetically engineered lymphocytes were injected into mice and found to kill the cancer within two to three days, paving the way for potential treatment in humans.
A University of Leicester archaeologist has discovered a bone belonging to a late 19th-century tortoise from Stafford Castle, providing the earliest archaeological evidence for pet tortoises. This find sheds light on the changing attitudes towards family pets in British society during the late 19th century.
Researchers have discovered that silicon oil can absorb nearly 50% of radioactive rays during radiation therapy for ocular melanoma. The study, published in Archives of Ophthalmology, suggests that the substance acts as a physical shield to reduce radiation exposure to the eye.
The DOE Joint Genome Institute has sequenced and published the genomes of two wood-decaying fungi, advancing biofuels prospects. Studying the genome of Schizophyllum commune reveals a diverse set of enzymes involved in plant biomass degradation, offering opportunities for efficient biomass conversion into biofuel.
Researchers have identified a functional DNA element associated with prostate cancer risk, revealing new insights into the molecular mechanisms of the disease. The study found that variants in this region can alter the expression of critical genes, increasing disease risk.
A team of researchers used advanced imaging technology to colorize a black-and-white photograph of Matisse's 'Bathers by a River', revealing the artist's innovative methods and palette changes. The resulting image shows how Matisse transformed his work from vibrant colors to somber grays, offering insights into his artistic evolution.
Linda George will receive the 2010 Distinguished Career Contribution to Gerontology Award for her significant contributions to the field of aging. Her research interests include social factors and depression, stress, coping, religion, and health.
A couple-focused intervention appears effective in reducing HIV risk behaviors among African-American couples, particularly those with one partner HIV-positive. The study found that couples who participated in the Eban intervention reported more consistent condom use and fewer unprotected intercourse acts.
A study by the University of North Carolina Health Care found that simple interventions, including a color-coded BMI chart and a questionnaire, can change parents' perspectives on their child's weight and behavior. The study showed improved dietary behaviors and reduced screen time in overweight children.
A study by Emory University found that sewage overflows in urban creeks and streams increase the risk of West Nile virus transmission, particularly in lower-income neighborhoods. The analysis showed a seven times higher risk for residents near affected areas compared to other parts of the city.
Three former Latin American presidents have signed the Vienna Declaration, calling for the incorporation of scientific evidence into illicit drug policies. The declaration aims to improve community health and safety by reducing consumption and harm caused by drugs.
A Mayo Clinic study found that individuals with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) who experience depression or apathy are at a higher risk of developing dementia. Researchers identified biomarkers for MCI progression, highlighting the importance of evaluating patients for neuropsychiatric symptoms.
Physicists have measured the proton's charge radius with an accuracy of better than one thousandth of a femtometre, significantly deviating from previous measurements. This change affects the Rydberg constant used to calculate energy packets absorbed and emitted by atoms and molecules.
Research reveals nearly 1 in 25 restaurant-associated foodborne outbreaks can be traced back to contaminated salsa or guacamole. Proper storage and handling of these foods are key to preventing illness.
Scientists combined new and classic approaches to identify a single genetic mutation causing metachondromatosis, a disorder characterized by bony growths. The study demonstrates the power of whole-genome sequencing technology in efficiently identifying genes responsible for Mendelian diseases.
A recent study published in Archives of Neurology found that consuming more vitamin E through the diet is associated with a lower risk of dementia and Alzheimer's disease. The researchers analyzed data from over 5,400 participants and found that those who consumed the most vitamin E had a 25% lower risk of developing dementia.
A study compiled field studies across the US to identify influences on biomass yield of switchgrass. Lowland and upland switchgrass types showed varying yields, with annual averages of 12.9 metric tons per hectare for lowland and 8.7 metric tons for upland ecotypes.
Research shows that hospitals adopting automated surveillance technologies are more likely to implement evidence-based infection control practices, reducing MRSA, ventilator-associated pneumonia, and surgical care infections.
Mezey received the award for her contributions to advancing gerontological education, including developing defined geriatric competencies and enhancing faculty knowledge in geriatrics. The recognition acknowledges her work in promoting gerontological care and research through her collaborations with nursing organizations.
Researchers discovered a way to boost nerve growth in peripheral nervous system, offering potential treatments for diabetes and traumatic injuries. Blocking PTEN molecular brake increased nerve outgrowth, providing hope for recovery from nerve damage
This book explores the human side of element discovery, from gallium to mercury, weaving science with classic lore. The author delves into the lives of scientists who discovered elements, uncovering tales of madness, love, and tragedy.
U-M researchers identified a DIAPH3 gene mutation that causes over-production of a diaphanous protein, leading to hearing loss. The discovery will aid in developing genetic tests for auditory neuropathy, a rare disorder previously difficult to diagnose.
A study published in Behaviour found that courtship calls of Adelie penguins with steady frequency predict male condition and breeding success. Males with more consistent pitch are heavier and more successful at raising chicks.