Researchers at the University of Bristol have discovered a way to prevent intermittent episodes of breath holding associated with Rett syndrome by increasing levels of aminobutyric acid and stimulating serotonin receptors. This breakthrough has significant implications for alleviating symptoms in patients with this debilitating disease.
Researchers analyzed killings and rocket attacks between Israel and Palestine, finding that each side's attacks lead to violent retaliation from the other. This challenges claims of a one-sided conflict, suggesting both Israelis and Palestinians play a role in perpetuating violence.
The Aeras Global TB Vaccine Foundation has received a $362,102 grant from the US FDA to develop new biological and immunological biomarkers for TB vaccine development. The project aims to evaluate four mycobacterial growth inhibition assays and identify T-cell immune responses associated with protective vaccines.
A naturally occurring variant of cassava has been found to accumulate high levels of provitamin A carotenoids, offering a potential solution to vitamin A deficiency in sub-Saharan Africa. Transgenic approaches can also be used to increase the enzyme phytoene synthase, leading to increased carotenoid synthesis and biofortification of co...
A six-session school-based program in South Africa reduced rates of unprotected sex and sex with multiple partners among sixth-graders. The intervention also had a positive impact on HIV/STD prevention behaviors, highlighting the importance of targeted interventions for young adolescents.
A region-wide study found that toxic pollution falling onto Puget Sound's waters has significantly decreased since 1991, with some pollutants decreasing by as much as 99%. However, industrial areas like Tacoma still have high air-deposited contamination levels, with the Port of Tacoma site recording the highest deposition rates.
Researchers at the University of Gothenburg developed a new equation to calculate energy requirements for underweight COPD patients, leading to more accurate nutritional approaches. The study found that this method can help patients stop losing weight and even gain weight.
A study published in the International Journal of Knowledge-Based Development found that postdoctoral researchers see technology transfer as important but few are actively preparing for self-employment. Initial wealth was a distinguishing factor among those who were self-employed.
Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center has been redesignated as a Magnet hospital by the American Nurses Credentialing Center, recognizing its excellence in nursing services and patient care. The designation is a testament to the hospital's commitment to delivering high-quality care.
A diet rich in walnuts and walnut oil may improve blood pressure responses to stress by lowering resting blood pressure and inflammation. The study found that adding flaxseed oil did not further lower blood pressure.
Researchers found that increased abdominal fat increases the risk of metabolic disease, while fat gain in the thighs lowers the risk. The study challenges the concept that the number of fat cells remains stable in adults and suggests a potential protective effect of lower-body fat cells.
A new computer model predicts that vaccination can mitigate subsequent-wave mechanisms and reduce infection rates even when an epidemic appears to be waning. The model identified four potential mechanisms for a 'third wave' and showed that initiating vaccination earlier, increasing speed, and prioritizing subgroups can significantly re...
A new study reveals an alarming increase in the flow of freshwater into the world's oceans, driven by global warming and accelerated evaporation. The research, led by UCI, uses satellite records to track water volume flowing from continents to oceans, finding a 18% rise in freshwater input since 1994.
Researchers found that interactive gaming devices are associated with higher rates of injuries, particularly among younger children and bystanders. The study highlights the need for supervision when playing video games, especially interactive ones.
The intelligent system uses data fusion software to integrate radar and AIS sensor capabilities, providing real-time monitoring of ships in a given maritime route. The prototype can monitor up to 2,000 identifiable vessels with a second refresh time, ensuring accurate and up-to-date information for secure maritime traffic management.
A University of Alberta research team has found a mechanism underlying both addiction and obesity, which could lead to new treatments for these diseases. The study revealed that dopamine plays a key role in the formation of spatial memories in the brain, and its release is associated with feelings of reward.
The Census of Marine Life has completed a ten-year initiative to describe ocean life distribution and diversity, with UAF scientists contributing significantly. New species have been discovered in the Arctic Ocean and coastal regions, shedding light on climate change impacts.
The $1.5 million grant will fund Ben Major's work to identify functional human genes contributing to specific cellular processes, such as cancer growth and migration. The goal is to develop a low-cost approach to determine gene function in the human genome.
Researchers aim to determine if vigorous exercise can help people abstain from stimulant abuse and improve their health. The study, STRIDE, will monitor participants' drug abstinence and relapse rates, as well as physical and mental health outcomes.
A new material has been found to have piezoelectric properties similar to lead zirconium titanate (PZT), a commonly used material in electronic devices. The development is significant as it could pave the way for 100% lead-free electronics, reducing toxicity and environmental concerns.
Researchers from North Carolina State University have developed a means to integrate gallium nitride (GaN) sensors and devices directly into silicon-based computer chips. This enables the development of high-power devices critical for smart grid technology and high-frequency military communications.
A long-term study found that children diagnosed with ADHD at ages 4 to 6 are more likely to suffer from depression as adolescents, with a rate of 18% compared to 1.8%. Children with early ADHD were also at a higher risk for suicidal thoughts and attempts, although rare.
A study found that maternal influenza vaccination during pregnancy is associated with lower rates of flu infection and hospitalization in infants. Infants born to vaccinated mothers had higher levels of flu antibodies, providing protection against severe illness.
A study by Duke University Medical Center found that doctors' communication styles significantly impact patients' weight loss success. Physicians who used a more motivational and empathic approach helped patients lose an average of 3.5 pounds, while those using a judgmental style saw little change.
A new BMBF-funded research group is tackling climate change by recycling CO2 into valuable chemicals. The team, led by Dr. Jennifer Strunk, aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by using light and water to convert CO2.
The John Theurer Cancer Center will present research on unique surgical techniques to treat bone cancers that preserve as much bone and soft tissue as possible. These techniques include endoprostheses, cryosurgery, and radiofrequency ablation, with the goal of reducing complications and improving patient outcomes.
Scientists from Oregon State University and the European Union outline six regulatory issues for nanoparticles in pesticides, including disclosure and testing methods. The researchers aim to design safer nanoparticles that maximize benefits while preventing risks.
A study by University of Texas at Austin psychologists found that people match each other's language styles more during happier periods of their relationship. Style-matching scores were calculated between poetry written by two pairs of spouses, revealing changes in relationships over time.
University of Missouri researchers are studying how the brain responds to hypoxia, or lack of oxygen, in a bid to combat sleep apnea. The team has identified specific cells and pathways within the brain involved in responses to hypoxia, with hopes to develop drugs or procedures to correct its dangerous effects.
Researchers halt life-threatening breathing arrests in mouse models of Rett syndrome using a combination of drugs. The breakthrough offers new hope for treating this devastating disease, which affects 1 in 10,000 young girls.
A new study found that female executives are more likely to leave their jobs voluntarily and involuntarily than their male counterparts. Women account for 7.2% of departures, compared to 3.8% for men, with higher voluntary rates (4.3% vs 2.8%) and involuntary rates (2.9% vs 0.9%). The study suggests that women may leave due to domestic...
Researchers at Hebrew University discover a group of substances in the body controlling bone density, leading to development of a new osteoporosis drug. Oleoyl serine increases bone density in both healthy and osteoporotic mice, offering a promising approach to reversing bone loss.
A nationwide survey of over 5,800 individuals ages 14 to 94 found diverse patterns of sexual acts, condom use, and same-sex encounters. Condoms were used by one in four men and one in three women, with increased usage among some groups.
The Living Voters Guide aims to spark civil discussion among Washington voters by letting them work together to write their own voters guide. The guide uses elements of Twitter's character limit and Google's ranking system to encourage people of different views to learn from each other.
A new study published in The FASEB Journal suggests that muscle inflammation after acute muscle injury is essential to muscle repair by means of insulin-like growth factor-1. Inflammation, once thought to be detrimental to healing, plays a crucial role in repairing damaged muscle tissue.
A recent study published in Annals of Internal Medicine found that sleep loss limits fat loss. When dieters got adequate sleep, they lost more than half of their weight as fat, but when they cut back on sleep, only one-fourth of their weight loss came from fat.
A study in CMAJ highlights areas for improvement in end-of-life care in Canada, including emotional support, communication, and decision-making. Patients and families reported high satisfaction rates but identified key gaps in understanding end-stage care expectations and technological use at the end of life.
Depression during pregnancy significantly increases risk of preterm birth and low birth weight, with poorer outcomes for depressed pregnant women living in poverty. Universal screening and access to mental health care are critical for mitigating these effects.
Horseshoe crabs, considered living fossils, face population decline due to climate-driven habitat destruction and overharvesting. Their genetic variation reveals sensitivity to natural climate change, posing a significant threat to their survival.
Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute professors Jonathan Dordick and Leonard Interrante have been named ACS Fellows for their groundbreaking work in biocatalysis, bioengineering, nanobiotechnology, and materials science. Their discoveries have the potential to protect thousands of people from bacterial infections and transform the modern d...
A study of 15-year-olds in seven Eastern European and 16 Western countries found that drunkenness levels increased in Eastern Europe and among girls, but decreased in Western countries and boys. This decline was attributed to changes in socioeconomic conditions and alcohol marketing practices.
Implementing Medical Home practice model at a federally qualified health center in Connecticut improved patients' compliance with doctors' recommendations, reducing emergency room visits and hospital admissions. The clinic achieved a 95% immunization rate and established processes to increase efficiency.
Speech-language pathology researchers at the University of Missouri are studying Hindustani and classical singing styles to develop a treatment for laryngeal tremors. By understanding the physiology behind voluntary and involuntary pitch fluctuation, they aim to find a cure for this vocal disorder associated with neurological disorders.
Researchers discovered a rare colony of moss, worms, and shrimp flourishing around a geothermal vent at the bottom of Yellowstone Lake. The unique environment is characterized by inky black water, high temperatures, and toxic gases.
A team of researchers found that retreating glaciers created a mosaic landscape with numerous islands, bays, and fiords, allowing new species to develop rapidly. The ancestors of these species survived the ice age in warmer regions, resulting in an exceptional biodiversity in southern Chile.
Researchers have found evidence of a 55-million-year-old river that flowed from California to Arizona and then into Utah, reversing the modern Colorado River's direction. The ancient California River, which formed a delta in Utah, was on a similar scale to the modern Colorado-Green River system but flowed northeastward.
A study by National Jewish Health reveals that food allergies are more prevalent among people with asthma, especially in children, males and non-Hispanic blacks. The researchers found that peanut allergy was the most common food allergy, affecting 1.3% of the surveyed population.
A study by University of Wisconsin-Madison researchers found that expanding bioenergy crops in the Upper Midwest could decrease bird species by 7-65% due to monoculture farming. In contrast, perennial cultures of prairie plants and grasses could increase biodiversity by 25-100%.
A multicenter study in Canada found that shingles affects not only physical health but also mental well-being, including sleep quality and enjoyment of life. After the acute phase, 24% of participants developed postherpetic neuralgia, a persistent pain condition.
Researchers at Kiel University found a unique antibacterial peptide in Hydra embryo that prevents benign bacteria from colonizing. This mechanism helps protect the embryo and potentially other organisms, altering the composition of bacterial colonization in adults as well.
A study by the American Academy of Pediatrics found that postpartum intervention/support can significantly reduce smoking relapse and increase breastfeeding duration. Mothers who quit smoking during or just prior to pregnancy, received support and encouragement, remained smoke free and continued breastfeeding for longer periods.
A new study found that dieters who slept 8.5 hours per night lost 56% more body fat compared to those who slept 5.5 hours, highlighting the importance of adequate sleep for weight maintenance. Researchers also discovered that sleep restriction increased ghrelin levels, leading to increased hunger and food intake.
Onconova Therapeutics has agreed with the FDA on a Special Protocol Assessment (SPA) for its Phase 3 trial of Estybon in patients with myelodysplastic syndromes. The trial is expected to begin in Q4 2010 and will compare Estybon to Best Supportive Care.
A researcher at Indiana University has been awarded $2.27 million to study the environmental effects on gene copy number, which can influence disease susceptibility. The project aims to understand how genetic differences between individuals are affected by environmental factors.
Researchers at Arizona State University created nanoscale DNA Möbius strips, measuring 50 nanometers across, using DNA origami and Kirigami techniques. The unique structures have potential applications in biology, chemistry, and electronics.
A new study published in Archives of General Psychiatry found family-based treatment to be the most effective approach for treating anorexia nervosa. More than 50% of patients who received this type of treatment were in full remission after a year, compared to 23% of those who received individual therapy.
A University of Wisconsin-Madison researcher systematically examined 25 years of rigorous research to explain community college student success and identify remedies for dropouts. Key findings include the importance of institutional practices, federal and state resources, and incentives for college and student performance.
The NIH has awarded $14.6M to Georgia Tech and Emory University to develop nanotechnology tools for detecting and treating atherosclerosis. The research aims to translate these technologies into clinical utility, including diagnosing cardiovascular disease from a blood sample and delivering targeted drug delivery.
A study found that Child Protective Services (CPS) investigations for suspected child maltreatment are associated with increased household risk factors, including poverty and maternal depressive symptoms. However, CPS investigations were not linked to improvements in social support, family functioning, or common modifiable risk factors.
A new study estimates that 2.5% of the US population has food allergies, with higher rates found in children, non-Hispanic blacks, and males. The research also identifies an association between food allergy and severe asthma, highlighting the need for increased awareness and monitoring of these conditions.