Researchers are exploring the potential link between vitamin D intake and a protein that may help prevent Barrett's esophagus from turning into cancer. Patients with Barrett's esophagus will take vitamin D weekly for four months to measure its effects on esophageal cancer risk.
Virginia Tech engineers have received funding to investigate ways to reduce emissions from vehicles and improve fuel economy. They aim to develop thermoelectric materials that can convert waste heat into electricity, increasing gas mileage and reducing pollution.
A University of Washington biologist has built 120 'condominiums' for Galapagos penguins in a bid to boost their dwindling numbers. The new nests, designed to provide shaded breeding grounds, were completed ahead of La Niña conditions that bring plentiful food to the penguins.
Researchers at the University of California, San Diego School of Medicine propose a new theory that links depression to chronic brain inflammation. According to this theory, depression is an adaptive response to stress and trauma, which can lead to neural remodeling and malfunctions.
A study published in The Lancet Oncology found that some CML patients can survive up to 2 years without relapse after stopping imatinib treatment, suggesting a potential cure with tyrosine-kinase inhibitors. The study suggests that indefinite treatment may not be necessary and that imatinib can be safely discontinued in some cases.
Research reveals that fetal alcohol exposure is associated with difficulties in memory and information processing, as well as visual perception and attention control. This finding may aid in the development of new therapies and treatments for children affected by fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD) or fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS).
The NHLBI has launched a six-year, $21 million study to investigate the effectiveness of body cooling treatment in infants and children who have had cardiac arrest. The Therapeutic Hypothermia after Pediatric Cardiac Arrest (THAPCA) trials aim to reduce brain injury and improve survival rates.
Researchers found that video game training improves employee knowledge by 11%, skill-based knowledge by 14% and retention rate by 9%. Games work best when engaging users and provide flexible access.
Research published in Heart found that men with low testosterone levels were more likely to die prematurely from heart disease and all causes. The study of 930 men with coronary artery heart disease showed that those with low testosterone had nearly twice the risk of death compared to those with normal levels.
A study in Organization Science found that analysts discount African American managers' qualifications if they graduated from prestigious universities, while accepting the same qualifications for white managers. The effect is significant even when controlling for financial performance and accomplishments.
A new study found that gene activity patterns in the brain differ significantly among individuals with varying genetic backgrounds. The study, published in PNAS, mapped gene expression across 49 genes in seven genetically distinct mouse groups, revealing localized differences in gene activity.
Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center found that infusing leptin into the brain of mice with type 1 diabetes reversed lethal consequences and improved metabolism. The study suggests a novel role for the brain in mediating beneficial actions of leptin, potentially leading to new therapies for individuals with type 1 diabetes.
Research found significant associations between air pollution and COPD incidence, with stronger effects in men, obese patients, and those with pre-existing diabetes and asthma. Long-term exposure may be a true risk factor for developing severe COPD.
Biologists at Tufts University have discovered that changes in membrane voltage in newly identified 'instructor cells' can cause stem cells' descendants to trigger melanoma-like growth in pigment cells. The researchers found that this metastatic transformation is due to changes in serotonin transport.
Researchers at the University of Missouri are using X-ray diffraction to study a unique enzyme found in the 'kissing bug' parasite and Aspergillus fumigatus fungus. The goal is to develop drugs that can inhibit the enzyme's activity, which could lead to breakthroughs in treating pulmonary diseases and Chagas disease.
A study published in the JAMA Network found that hormone therapy use by postmenopausal women is associated with an increased incidence of invasive breast cancers, particularly those with positive lymph nodes. The study also showed a higher risk of deaths attributable to breast cancer among women who received combined hormone therapy.
Researchers found that old logging practices led to unprecedented soil erosion in southern Oregon's Siskiyou Mountains, which remains a threat despite improved practices. The study analyzed charcoal, pollen, and sediment cores to understand the impacts of fires over the last 2,000 years.
Researchers investigate White pox disease, a human strain of Serratia marcescens transmitted to elkhorn corals, which may indicate a new phenomenon of diseases jumping from humans to wildlife. The study aims to understand transmission mechanisms and develop control strategies.
The National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) has awarded four new contracts for large-scale clinical trials to evaluate treatment alternatives for diseases caused by resistant bacteria. These trials will focus on acute otitis media, community-acquired pneumonia, and Gram-negative bacterial infections.
A study by the University of Michigan found that teriparatide, a drug marketed for osteoporosis, can also heal bone wounds in gum disease patients. The treatment showed a 29% improvement in bone-level measurements on x-rays, compared to a 3% improvement in the placebo group.
A recent study published in the British Journal of Ophthalmology found that anorexia nervosa can cause significant damage to the retina and optic nerve, leading to impaired vision. The condition was associated with thinner maculae and reduced dopamine activity, which may be related to the initial stages of progressive blindness.
Scientists have developed a new polymer-type material that exhibits biocidal activity toward MRSA and other Gram-negative bacteria when exposed to light, making it suitable for antibacterial countertops. The conjugated polyelectrolyte (CPE) material has shown promising results in killing bacteria without harming mammalian cells.
Researchers at UNC School of Medicine found a gene variant associated with increased sensitivity to alcohol, suggesting a new mechanism for perception and brain effects. This discovery could lead to the development of drugs that enhance sensitivity to alcohol, while also offering insights into the complex nature of alcoholism.
Researchers from the University of Edinburgh found that evidence supports organized stroke unit care and secondary prevention with blood pressure lowering after ICH. However, more randomized controlled trials are needed to improve outcomes for patients with intracerebral hemorrhage.
Researchers at Arizona State University found that aging bees impair their ability to extinguish memories of unsuitable nest sites. Despite poor learning in the lab, a few old bees still perform well in recalling suitable homes.
A study of 18 patients with sickle cell disease found that inhaling nitric oxide for four hours reduced pain control compared to standard self-administered morphine. Nitric oxide may help restore hemoglobin's natural shape and charge, addressing the root cause of pain.
A new Université de Montreal study found that trained service dogs can significantly reduce stress hormone levels in autistic children, from an average of 33 problematic behaviors to just 25. The dogs also improved socialization skills and overall well-being for the children.
Researchers found that higher estrogen levels are associated with improved blood-pumping efficiency in women on hormone therapy, while testosterone and DHEA increase RV mass in men. These findings may help explain the paradox of better survival in women with PAH.
Scientists at McGill University's Montreal Neurological Institute and Hospital have discovered that the brain can determine the shape of an object by processing specially-coded sounds, even without visual or tactile input. This new research provides important possibilities for aiding those who are blind or with impaired vision.
A new study by Brigham Young University found that middle-class shoppers use secondhand stores and yard sales to stretch their family budget. Thrift shopping plays a significant role in communities as it not only helps families save money but also establishes a sense of community through neighborhood events.
A systematic review found associations between exposure to pharmaceutical company information and higher prescribing frequency, costs, and lower quality prescribing. However, the authors did not find evidence of net improvements in prescribing behavior.
A new study predicts widespread droughts across much of the globe within decades, with most of Western Hemisphere and Eurasia at risk. Drought conditions are expected to worsen as warming temperatures lead to reduced rainfall and increased evaporation.
Researchers at MIT have successfully stored energy in carbon nanotubes using a thermopower process, which converts chemical energy into electricity. This breakthrough could lead to the development of more efficient power generation and storage systems.
A University of Chicago study by Prof. Cathy Cohen reveals that black youth are politically involved, critical of rap music and skeptical of the post-racial era. Despite facing structural racism and limited opportunities, they demonstrate agency in shaping their life options.
A new analysis suggests that Parkinson's disease can be understood in terms of damage to control circuits in the brain responsible for habits. Removing part of the brain can help patients regain smooth initiation of movements by reducing inhibitory signals from malfunctioning habitual control systems.
A Finnish study found that children born in spring are more likely to develop food allergies due to sensitization during fetal development. Research suggests a peak in birch and alder pollen levels in April-May may contribute to this association.
Research shows that certain areas in the brain associated with error processing are significantly affected by alcohol. Alcohol intake was found to increase reaction time and errors during a Go/No-Go reaction test, suggesting impaired cognitive control.
Researchers investigated wild cat flank markings to understand the evolution of patterns, finding that dense habitats and low light levels drive patterning. This suggests that complex patterns like leopard spots evolve for camouflage.
Researchers created a high-protein soy snack to address India's protein deficiency issue, working with an Indian foundation to reach 1.2 million underprivileged children. The snacks' success was validated through taste tests, paving the way for increased student performance and improved health outcomes.
Researchers from Monash University identified interleukin 37 as a key therapy for many inflammatory diseases, including those affecting premature babies. The protein blocks inflammation throughout the body and has been activated by various biological triggers.
A new study reveals that 91% of professional basketball, volleyball, handball, and football players are dehydrated when starting their training sessions. This is due to the high rate of sweating during indoor sports, with players losing up to 1.8 litres of fluids per hour.
A group led by Takhee Lee demonstrated an optimal combination of materials and processing for a resistive memory circuit design. The scientists showed that exposing the contacts to an oxygen plasma improved the on/off signal ratio more than 10-fold, enabling high-performance memory devices.
Researchers at Zyvex Labs have demonstrated a process for removing individual hydrogen atoms from silicon surfaces and adding single atomic layers of silicon. This technique allows for the creation of atomically precise three-dimensional structures with potential applications in nanotechnology, quantum computing, and more.
Scientists have identified a novel signal that can control the behavior of stem cells, which holds promise for treating cancer and birth defects. The research, published in Disease Models & Mechanisms, uses bioelectrical therapy to guide stem cells along the correct pathways.
Researchers have developed new presbyopia treatments, including corneal lens implants and inlays, which show promise in improving near vision without the need for glasses. These options offer advantages over traditional LASIK procedures, such as reversed effects and improved distance vision.
Researchers have developed techniques to permanently bind antibacterial coatings to medical devices, aiming to prevent the formation of biofilms that can cause infection. The new coatings use a plasma polymer layer and novel diterpene compounds derived from Australian plants to effectively target bacteria.
Scientists at Rice University and Argentina's National University of Rosario identified a key protein in bacteria's response to cold, which acts as a 'measuring stick' tuned to signal temperature drops. The study found that this protein triggers the release of cold-protecting chemicals when its tip is engulfed by the cell membrane.
A team at the University of Wisconsin-Madison has demonstrated methods to harness electronic oxides for broad applications in nanoelectronic devices. The new process allows the formation of structures that put different oxide layers on top of a silicon substrate, enabling the creation of conducting nanowires and tiny transistors.
Researchers presented data on natural S-equol, a soy-based compound that mimics some activities of estrogen, to alleviate menopause symptoms. The study findings suggest potential benefits of S-equol for women experiencing diminished estrogen production during menopause.
Researchers will study coastal algal bloom risk and nutrient sources, create models to forecast HABs and develop action plans to reduce them. The project aims to restore the physical, chemical and biological integrity of near-shore waters globally.
A multidisciplinary team of researchers at Michigan State University is developing a sustainability plan for the Ogallala Aquifer, which stores nearly as much water as Lake Erie and Lake Huron combined. The plan aims to address economic and sociological issues affecting the aquifer's management, ensuring sustainable water-use practices...
Scientists have developed a new method to detect transmissible spongiform encephalopathies, progressive and fatal neurological diseases, in cattle and humans. The technique uses fluorescence technology to identify distinct differences in the fluorescence signatures of retinas from infected animals.
A large COMMAND clinical study found a 99.5% successful implantation rate and 0.48% overall infection rate for patients using TYRX's AIGISRx Antibacterial Envelope. The envelope reduces infections in high-risk patients by 70% compared to previous studies.
Researchers developed a sensor that uses frog peptides to test for drug and medical device contamination, reducing the need for horseshoe crab blood. The new technology could help save endangered species like the red knot, which relies on horseshoe crabs for food.
A new index of adipose dysfunction, visceral adiposity index (VAI), is directly correlated with viral load and independently associated with steatosis and necroinflammatory activity in patients with G1 CHC. VAI score also linked to insulin resistance, fibrosis, and moderate-severe necroinflammatory activity.
José Goldemberg's groundbreaking research on biofuels has significantly contributed to science and scientific innovation. His work demonstrated the potential of sugarcane-based ethanol as a sustainable alternative to fossil fuels, ultimately reducing greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution in Brazil.
Children with permanent hearing impairment who received newborn hearing screening had better general and language developmental outcomes and quality of life compared to those who received behavioral testing at 9 months. Early detection and intervention are crucial for social functioning and development.
A new study found that obese individuals exhibit lower functional brain response in one region and impaired insulin sensitivity compared to normal-weight peers. This suggests a potential link between midlife obesity and cognitive decline later on.
Researchers have discovered a short-range scattering mechanism in type-II GaSb/GaAs quantum dots, which may lead to more efficient transport of electrons and improved performance in quantum dot-based devices. This breakthrough has significant implications for the future design of novel quantum devices.
Research suggests adiponectin inhibits leptin-induced migration of liver cancer cells, slowing tumor growth and improving disease-free survival. The study's findings offer a promising therapy for obese liver cancer patients by targeting the oncogenic actions of leptin.