The TRUST study found that erlotinib significantly increased survival for patients with previously treated advanced NSCLC. Certain patient groups, such as adenocarcinoma, women, and Asian ethnicity, showed greater tumor responses to EGFR TK inhibitors.
Researchers discuss factors contributing to cancer disparities, including language barriers and lack of health literacy. Successful strategies include tailoring messages to specific audiences and promoting evidence-based programs like Body and Soul.
A group-based, holistic mind-body intervention was found to be equally effective in treating persistent fatigue and improving quality of life for breast cancer survivors across different racial groups. The program combined relaxation techniques, nutrition optimization, physical activity, and cognitive behavioral therapy.
Researchers discovered that genetic variations impairing phosphodiesterase 11A (PDE11A) enzyme activity increase prostate cancer risk, affecting nearly four times more men than those without the variation. The study suggests PDE11A may have a role in genetic screening for predisposition to prostate cancer.
This article features protocols for investigating histone demethylase activity, including methods for detecting cytosine methylation in RNA using bisulfite sequencing. These methods enable researchers to measure histone demethylase activity in tissues and cell lysates, identify novel enzymes, and screen for inhibitors.
Researchers propose strategies to increase plant efficiency in absorbing light, altering root carbon conversion, and boosting bioenergy crops to combat climate change. The use of genetically engineered plants for carbon sequestration is part of a broader effort to enhance natural biological processes.
A new study found that siblings of children with autism have more frequent language delays and subtle characteristics of the disorder. The research suggests that genetic factors can influence individuals to varying degrees, even if one child is diagnosed with autism while the other is not.
A Web-based tool extracted from the electronic medical record helps primary care physicians manage care for individual patients, groups of patients or their entire panel. The Panel Support Tool (PST) improves care for patients with diabetes and/or heart disease, and provides better preventive care for healthy patients.
Researchers at the Mayo Clinic developed a method to measure general technologist productivity, increasing efficiency and savings by $174,000. The study found that measuring productivity can help radiology departments balance competing priorities.
The Mayo Clinic review article distinguishes between withholding or withdrawing life-sustaining treatments and physician-assisted suicide or euthanasia. Palliative sedation is recognized as a legitimate therapy for refractory suffering, with informed patient consent and medical involvement.
Researchers at Polytechnic University of Valencia have created a new ranking system for Spanish savings banks using 'programming by goals' method. The study provides a more precise overall vision of the savings banks, giving information about their situation and position in potential mergers.
Genetic tests are increasingly being offered directly to consumers in Puerto Rico, leading to higher awareness levels compared to previous U.S. population-based studies. However, the actual use of these tests is lower than expected, affecting specific groups such as smokers.
A new study suggests that current climate change targets are unsafe, as global temperatures appear to be comparable to projections for the end of this century. The analysis of geological records reveals that sea levels will rise significantly higher than anticipated, with a rate of rise more than double recent observations.
Researchers found that rufinamide significantly reduced total partial seizure frequency compared to placebo, with a notable 50% reduction in responder rate and total partial seizure frequency. The study also showed efficacy for complex partial seizures, simple partial seizures, and secondarily generalized partial seizures.
A study published by the American Association for Cancer Research found that vigorous exercise of more than two hours per week can significantly reduce the risk of developing breast cancer in postmenopausal African-American women. Women who engaged in such exercise had a 64% reduced risk compared to those who did not.
The Mid-InfraRed Instrument (MIRI) is being tested in a simulated environment at RAL to prepare for its delivery to NASA. The instrument will enable astronomers to study the first light of the early Universe and form planets around distant stars.
Researchers found a significant correlation between low socioeconomic status and late-stage, non-localized colorectal cancer diagnoses. Participants from less deprived neighborhoods had a lower incidence rate of 16.2%, while those from more disadvantaged areas had a higher incidence rate of 19.8%.
Advanced gene modification methods for cellulosic biofuels are being restricted due to stringent regulations, hindering the development of this promising renewable energy source. The researchers argue that a more intelligent regulatory system is needed to enable the use of gene modification technology and accelerate breeding progress.
The Journal of the American Society of Hypertension (JASH) has been selected for inclusion in MEDLINE, a premier bibliographic database of the U.S. National Library of Medicine. JASH's scientific merit and contribution to the field have been recognized through this prestigious recognition.
The University of Nevada, Reno's earthquake engineering lab is expanding with a $12.2 million grant from the US Department of Commerce's National Institute of Standards and Technology. The new facility will house the largest shake table in the US and enable researchers to simulate complex seismic tests.
Researchers at UTHealth developed a computer-based sex-education program to tackle high teenage pregnancy rates, receiving a $15 million grant. The 'It's Your Game: Keep It Real' program aims to educate teenagers on risky sexual behavior and encourage abstinence.
A UC Irvine infectious disease specialist is leading a three-year study on new methods to prevent staph infections in people with MRSA bacteria. The project aims to reduce MRSA infection risk across the continuum of inpatient and outpatient care.
A team of astronomers has discovered an Earth-sized planet orbiting a nearby star in the middle of its habitable zone, where liquid water could exist. The newly found planet, Gliese 581g, is tidally locked and has stable surface climates, offering a wide range of temperatures for potential life forms.
Researchers found that individuals with low DNA repair capacity have three times greater likelihood of developing non-melanoma skin cancer compared to those with high DRC. Low DRC levels were strongly associated with non-melanoma skin cancer, regardless of other risk factors.
A new study published in the Journal of Thoracic Oncology found that approximately half of advanced non-small cell lung cancer patients received chemotherapy treatment, exceeding previous estimates. The retrospective analysis showed age and insurance type were associated with chemotherapy administration.
A study published in the American Academy of Ophthalmology's journal found that photoscreening was effective in detecting amblyopia in Iowa children, with a success rate of over 95%. The method, which uses technology to record the pattern of light reflected through each pupil, showed promise as a cost-effective way to identify the cond...
Researchers Paula Gardiner and Robert Saper at Boston Medical Center have been awarded NIH grants to investigate the effectiveness of integrative medicine in treating chronic lower back pain in low-income minorities. Their studies will expand knowledge on the use of herbal supplements and yoga as treatments for this common condition.
Tropical Storm Nicole's remnants combined with an upper-level low pressure system, dumping record rainfall on the US East Coast. Heavy rains fell across states from New England to North Carolina, breaking records at multiple airports and cities.
A new study from the University of California, Berkeley, found that women who receive regular dental care have a lower risk of heart attacks, stroke, and other cardiovascular problems by at least one-third. The study used data from nearly 7,000 people ages 44-88 and ruled out self-selection bias using instrumental variables.
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.