The iScrub Lite app simplifies monitoring hand hygiene compliance and provides feedback to healthcare professionals. It helps standardize and streamline data entry, reducing errors and delays in reporting results.
A study by Northwestern University suggests that New York City received less Homeland Security funding than optimal in 2009, translating to a potential net increase of $15 million to $92 million. The researchers analyzed budgets for five fiscal years and found Chicago underfunded while Los Angeles overfunded.
A team of Catalan scientists found remains of Egyptian blue in a 12th-century Romanesque church's altarpiece, challenging the understanding that this pigment fell out of use after the Western Roman Empire. The pigment's presence has sparked debate about its possible origin and transportation during Medieval times.
A group of Tel Aviv University graduate students proposes a 'business net' project to connect Gaza with the international business community, promoting peace and prosperity. The project aims to develop a thriving industrial park in Gaza, providing a healthy protein supply and connecting the region to foreign investment.
The European HEALTHGRAIN consortium established a unified definition of whole grain, considering its industrial practices and nutritional benefits. The new definition includes intact kernels with inedible parts removed, while allowing temporary separation during processing.
A study found that pregnant women with flu often experience symptoms like nausea and a rapid heartbeat. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent complications, according to the UT Southwestern Medical Center researchers.
Researchers developed novel processing technologies to improve oat-based foods, focusing on wholegrain flours and specific varieties for better bread quality. These technologies enhance the nutritional attributes of oats, particularly fiber and beta-glucan content, while also addressing visco-elastic properties and starch gelatinization.
A new study suggests using herbicides to sterilize weedy grasses instead of killing them may be a more economical and environmentally sound strategy. Growth regulator herbicides, when applied at the right growth stage, can reduce weed seed production without harming desirable perennial grasses.
Research suggests that whole grain barley products and rye foods can facilitate glycaemic regulation through gut fermentation, leading to improved insulin sensitivity and reduced blood glucose levels. Additionally, these products may promote feelings of satiety and lower voluntary energy intake.
Researchers at U of T discovered a new view on how living cells use DNA to generate genetic messages, resolving a decade-old gap in understanding. The 'splicing code' helps predict and prevent diseases such as cancers and neurodegenerative disorders.
The article describes the publication of four new Neotropical plant species in the genus Solanum, governed by the International Code of Botanical Nomenclature (ICBN). Dr. Sandra Knapp, a leading plant taxonomist, separates the printing process from the publisher, enabling online-only publication while complying with ICBN rules.
Researchers found that serving carrots as a first course increased broccoli consumption by nearly 50-100% among preschool children. The findings challenge conventional beliefs and provide a simple strategy for parents to promote healthy eating habits in their young children.
Scientists discovered that brain tissue produces a natural form of the clot-busting drug tPA, which acts as a neuroprotectant and may prevent strokes. The finding suggests a potential new approach to preventing ischemic stroke by prolonging the effects of naturally produced tPA.
Kathy Clark's project aims to give math a human face by exploring the lives of women who contributed to mathematics. The program will focus on four women's contributions, including Mary Everest Boole, Sophie Germain, Grace Chisholm Young, and Florence Nightingale.
The US Department of Energy has granted approval for the second X-ray laser facility at SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory, building on the success of the first hard X-ray laser. The new facility will provide improved control over the X-ray beam and enable multiple research groups to work simultaneously.
Childhood obesity is a serious condition that can have severe consequences, including hypertension and psychosocial complications. Lifestyle interventions such as diet and exercise should always be the first-line therapy, with drug treatment used rarely and weight-loss surgery only as a last resort.
The HEALTHGRAIN Forum aims to promote science-based concepts for healthy cereal production, aiming to reduce healthcare costs and provide added value for companies. The new platform will facilitate knowledge sharing between academia, industry, and public bodies.
A European consumer study found that people in Finland rated whole grain products higher in healthiness and naturalness compared to other countries. Additionally, health claims had a positive impact on consumers' likelihood of buying cereal products in most European countries, except Italy.
Researchers have created a two-in-one formula combining an antibiotic and anti-inflammatory drug, delivered via nano-sized particles that extend medication duration. This development holds promise for easier treatment of bacterial keratitis, potentially reducing hospitalization rates.
Scientists developed a multistage nanovector system to deliver siRNA, significantly lengthening the therapeutic effects of treatment in mouse models of ovarian cancer. The system provides sustained delivery of siRNA for up to three weeks, targeting the EphA2 oncoprotein.
Atrazine is the single most widely used herbicide in sweet corn, accounting for only 9% of total weed management costs. The study found that phasing out atrazine would burden growers with particularly weedy fields and early season crop production.
Researchers successfully used a specialized fluorescent protein to visualize electrical activity in living mice, allowing them to study brain function and behavior in real-time. The 'cameleon' protein enables measurement of action potentials without electrodes, providing insights into neural networks and brain circuitry.
A new study published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism found that long-term elite rhythmic gymnastics significantly improves bone health in adolescent girls. The research measured volumetric bone density and bone geometry, showing increased cortical thickness and bone strength.
A study by Cedars-Sinai researchers has found a significant link between methane production and obesity, with obese patients testing positive for methane on their breath having a significantly higher body mass index. The presence of methane-producing bacteria in the gut may play a role in obesity.
Researchers have identified genetic markers that can enhance wheat varieties with improved nutritional content, particularly in exotic germplasm. The HEALTHGRAIN project has developed new tools for plant breeders to exploit this variation, leading to the creation of new wheat varieties with enhanced health benefits.
A recent University of Southampton study found that small doses of alcohol can relieve withdrawal symptoms in C. elegans worms, which exhibit similar behaviors to humans. This treatment approach may also worsen dependency, highlighting the need for new ideas in treating alcoholism.
Scientists discovered that aseismic slip in the Nazca tectonic plate can prevent earthquakes from propagating through certain areas. By analyzing GPS data and aftershock patterns, researchers found a 'patchwork' pattern of aseismicity, with some areas always slipping slowly and others rarely experiencing seismic activity.
Researchers at the University of Illinois have found Sudangrass to be an effective solution for controlling Canada thistle, with a 95% control rate in test plots. The smother crop can be mowed and left as a surface mulch or grazed, making it suitable for both organic and conventional farmers.
A small trial of bone marrow stem cell therapy in patients with MS found the procedure to be well-tolerated and suggested potential benefits. The study's results, published in Clinical Pharmacology and Therapeutics, provide a promising lead for further research into this emerging treatment option.
A prescription drug, imiquimod, has been found to boost the effectiveness of future vaccines for bacterial and viral diseases like HIV and hepatitis C. Scientists have coated imiquimod with dextran-based microparticles, significantly increasing the efficiency of cellular uptake by immune cells.
The study found that everolimus-eluting stents demonstrated enhanced safety and efficacy compared to paclitaxel-eluting stents in treating de novo native coronary artery lesions. The trial showed a significant reduction in target-lesion failure and ischemia-driven TLR rates with the use of everolimus-eluting stents.
A study presented at the ARRS 2010 Annual Meeting found that FDG-PET/CT accurately confirmed a suspected colorectal cancer recurrence in 40 out of 71 patients. This early detection enables improved treatment planning and targeted patient care for those with recurrent colorectal cancer.
Research by Indiana University scientists reveals that lake shape is a powerful factor controlling fungal disease epidemics. U-shaped lakes are more prone to epidemics due to the presence of Chaoborus, an invertebrate predator that spreads spores and catalyzes epidemics.
A large study of female nurses found that high-pressure jobs boost young women's risk of ischemic heart disease. Nurses who experienced work pressures were 25-60% more likely to develop heart disease, depending on the level of pressure.
A recent study found that almost 50% of medication discrepancies are related to a failure to understand all prescription medications at the time of hospital admission. Presenting medication lists can significantly reduce medication errors, with 85% of errors originating from patients' medication histories.
Engineered proteins mimic titin, a key muscle protein, to create a tough yet extensible scaffold for muscle regeneration. The biodegradable biomaterial could aid in the healing process by allowing new tissue to grow across injuries.
Researchers detected significant changes in chemical tracers in stream water, indicating increased thaw depth of permafrost. The study suggests that coastal erosion and greenhouse gas releases are likely outcomes of thawing permafrost.
A North Carolina State University study finds that agricultural workers in states requiring unemployment insurance spend 4.6 weeks fewer unemployed than those without insurance, earning 9% less upon re-hiring. Workers with access to benefits can find better-paying jobs.
The new center will explore five aspects of social cognitive networks, including dynamic processes, organizational networks, trust, human cognition, and adversarial networks. Researchers will develop mathematical models and analyze the effects of interactions on task performance and decision-making.
A study published in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society found that spouses of dementia sufferers have a significantly increased risk of developing dementia themselves. The risk is six times higher for those whose spouse develops dementia, particularly men.
A recent study by Rochester Institute of Technology found that using social media in classrooms has little effect on building student connections and social capital. The research used course management systems and discussion groups to enhance instruction, but results showed no measurable impact on students' social networks.
A genetic link has been discovered between sporadic and familial forms of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a neurodegenerative disease. The study found that protein FUS forms characteristic inclusions in spinal motor neurons in most ALS cases, suggesting a common pathogenic pathway for motor neuron degeneration.
A study from the University of Cambridge found that problem gamblers' brains react more intensely to near misses than casual gamblers. This reaction is linked to increased activity in brain regions associated with reward and learning, and may contribute to addictive behavior.
A new study found that just one night of short sleep duration can cause significant changes in metabolic regulation, leading to impaired glucose tolerance and insulin resistance in healthy individuals. Researchers used the hyperinsulinemic euglycemic clamp method to measure insulin sensitivity before and after a night of either normal ...
Researchers have discovered that individuals with a specific HLA B57 gene carry more potent killer T cells, which can recognize and attack HIV-infected cells. This finding may lead to the development of vaccines that provoke a similar response in people without the gene.
Researchers from VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland have developed new, nutritious, and tasty gluten-free breads using novel methods such as enzyme technology and high-pressure processing. The development was part of the HEALTHGRAIN project, which aimed to improve the quality and safety of gluten-free products.
A new study suggests that higher dietary protein intake can lower the risk of hip fractures in elderly individuals. The research, conducted on 946 seniors from the Framingham Osteoporosis Study, found that those consuming more protein had a significantly lower incidence of hip fractures compared to those with lower protein intake.
A new study found that daily volume of physical activity, measured by steps/day, is related to positive health outcomes and lower prevalence of MetS. Adults who maintain an active lifestyle by accumulating more steps are likely to have a lower risk of CVD factors.
A 12-year study has found that spouses who care for partners with dementia are six times more likely to develop the condition themselves. The increased risk is comparable to a well-studied gene variant associated with Alzheimer's disease.
Research reveals a stark social divide in assault-related deaths in Scotland, with the poorest facing a 32-fold increased risk. The study analyzed 1,109 certified deaths due to assault between 1980 and 2005, finding that violence costs the Scottish economy £3 billion annually.
Researchers found that bioprocessing wheat bran using enzymes and fermentation increased bioavailability of phenolic compounds, making it a better ingredient for nutritionally boosted cereal foods. The study aimed to improve sensory properties and increase European grain fibre intake.
Scientists found pathogens thrive in marine snow aggregates, which can skew water sampling procedures and predict disease transmission to humans. The study applies island biogeography theories to microscopic drifting aggregates.
Researchers have developed a non-invasive test for cardiovascular disease using VENDYS, a device that monitors finger temperature to measure an individual's risk. The test, which takes 15 minutes, can help identify vascular health issues and provide valuable feedback on progress.
Researchers at PMH discovered that progesterone alters breast stem cells, a finding with significant implications for breast cancer risk. The study shows how hormones affect breast stem cells during the reproductive cycle, providing a new pathway to understanding cell growth leading to breast cancer.
Leading physician policy experts propose several policy solutions to help the US prepare for an aging adult population. The proposed solutions include increasing funding for geriatrics in medical schools, leveraging Medicare's educational subsidy, and requiring practicing physicians to complete geriatric continuing education credits.
Researchers identified a rare mutation in a gene required for histamine production, which could lead to the development of new treatments for tics and Tourette syndrome. The study found that increasing brain histamine reverses repetitive behaviors similar to human tics.
A new water treatment system, developed by Penn State researchers, utilizes discarded materials and plant communities to remove pollutants from wastewater. The system has shown to be effective in reducing pollutants by over 90% within three days, making it a promising alternative for conserving global fresh water supplies.
Researchers developed tools for process monitoring to enhance nutritional properties of flours and ingredients by partial grain debranning, fine grinding, and classification. Flours made from peeled grains exhibited high contents of bioactive compounds and improved nutritional effects.
Researchers predict that a combination of drugs targeting three or more mutated strains of the hepatitis C virus is necessary to eradicate the virus. The findings suggest that a new treatment approach involving multiple direct-acting antivirals may be needed, potentially shortening treatment duration and improving cure rates.
Professor Pierre Jean Meunier received the prestigious Pierre Delmas Prize at the World Congress on Osteoporosis 2010 for his major scientific contributions to the study of bone and mineral diseases. The award honors his influential work in osteoporosis research, mentorship, and education.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins have discovered that a compound in dark chocolate may protect the brain after a stroke by increasing cellular signals. The study found that mice who ingested epicatechin suffered significantly less brain damage than those who did not.
A study found that having a pathologist on-site during ultrasound-guided thyroid biopsies decreased the inadequacy rate from 13.5% to 5%. This improvement could reduce repeat biopsy rates by up to 60%, making more efficient use of resources. The study recommends using on-site pathology for large numbers of thyroid biopsies.
Researchers developed new xylanase enzymes to solubilize and produce short-chain arabinoxylan oligosaccharides (AXOs) from wheat bran. AXOs promote gut health by fermenting into butyric acid, a beneficial compound for intestinal mucosa cells.
New clinical trials demonstrate the health potential of wheat aleurone, a novel fraction with high levels of potentially beneficial compounds. The studies show significant changes in plasma biomarkers, including increased betaine, reduced homocysteine and LDL-cholesterol.
New research from the University of Leeds found that organic farming provides only a 12% increase in biodiversity compared to conventional farming, which produces higher yields. The study raises questions about how to balance food production with wildlife protection on agricultural land.
The dry powder, inhalable vaccine has been shown to be stable under challenging environmental conditions and is estimated to cost only 26 cents per dose. Phase One clinical trials are set to start in India this summer, followed by Phase Two trials involving a larger number of patients.
Researchers found the microscopic minimal threshold of coffee-ring formation, enabling standard setting for biosensor devices. This discovery guides the development of ultra-small biosensors that can perform multiple medical diagnostics on a single chip.
A study published in the Journal of Thoracic Oncology found that high expression of CD24 is a negative independent prognostic factor for progression-free and cancer-specific survival in NSCLC. CD24-high expression was also associated with adenocarcinoma histology, higher risk of disease progression, and cancer-related death.
UBC researchers have developed a new biomaterial that closely mimics the elasticity of muscle, showcasing high resilience at low strain and toughness at high strain. The material's mechanical properties can be fine-tuned to develop biomaterials with diverse useful properties.
The Lawrence Livermore Microbial Detection Array (LLMDA) detects viruses and bacteria with probes in a checkerboard pattern, identifying over 2,000 viruses and 900 bacteria. This technology enables rapid detection of pathogens, improving biodefense, public health, and product safety.