Researchers have found a new drug combination that enhances anti-tumor efficacy and protects the heart from damage caused by doxorubicin, a powerful anti-cancer drug. The combination of Viagra and doxorubicin significantly reduces tumor size in prostate cancer patients without harming healthy cells.
A recent study found that black patients are less likely to experience end-of-life care that accurately reflects their preferences compared to white patients. Black patients with more education were marginally more likely to report having end-of-life discussions, but still received more aggressive care regardless of their values.
A study found that mindfulness meditation training reduced fatigue and depression in people with mild to moderate multiple sclerosis, improving overall quality of life. The positive effects continued for at least six months.
A team of researchers has identified a key player in maintaining bone balance, finding that the protein Maf promotes bone formation and prevents osteoporosis. By understanding this age-related switch in cell type generation, new approaches to treat age-related osteoporosis may be developed.
Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute researchers are developing a novel ceramic material for energy storage, aiming to overcome a key bottleneck in large-scale wind and solar power generation. The goal is to create nanoengineered capacitors that can store energy quickly and efficiently.
Stanford engineers discovered that ultra-thin solar cells with nanoscale roughness can absorb more energy than predicted by conventional theory. Light trapping technique increases energy absorption beyond the theoretical limit, opening a new door to designing highly efficient solar cells.
Physicists at University of Innsbruck successfully expose four entangled ions to a noisy environment, demonstrating the variety of flavors or properties in their entanglement. This study forms an important basis for understanding entanglement under environmental disturbances and the boundary between quantum and classical worlds.
A new Stanford study examining pine-bark extract's effects on blood pressure found no significant benefit in lowering blood pressure or reducing other risk factors for heart disease. The study, which recruited 130 overweight individuals, used a Japanese-produced pine-bark extract and confirmed its safety but found no health benefits.
A computer model shows that the US is susceptible to MDR-TB epidemics when TB prevalence falls and case detection improves, even with high treatment compliance. This is attributed to the increased risk of drug-resistant TB spreading in populations with low drug-susceptible TB rates.
University of Illinois researchers have created a tiny needle that can deliver quantum dots directly into a cell's nucleus, allowing for the study of internal environments and cellular processes. This breakthrough technique uses electrical potential to control the release of molecules and offers precise monitoring capabilities, opening...
Dr. Jerrold J. Ellner leads an international research team to identify biological markers for tuberculosis (TB) and develop novel treatments and vaccines. The five-year grant aims to prevent TB, which kills nearly two million people annually.
A recent clinical study has shown that patient-specific vaccines can sometimes induce durable complete regression of progressing soft-tissue melanoma metastases. The vaccine was found to be effective in one particular patient who remained in complete remission for over two years, more than four years after her initial diagnosis.
A 12-week randomized clinical trial found that pine bark extract did not improve risk factors for heart disease, despite its potential biological benefits. The study included 130 participants at increased risk for cardiovascular disease, who took either pine bark extract or a placebo once daily.
Children with chronic lung disease of prematurity who attend daycare are nearly four times more likely to experience serious respiratory symptoms than those who do not. Daycare attendance is associated with increased emergency room visits, medication use, and breathing problems in these vulnerable children.
A new report by the International Osteoporosis Foundation reveals poor post-fracture care in the region, with high mortality rates after hip fractures. The report predicts a significant increase in osteoporotic fractures due to aging populations and limited access to diagnostic tests and medication.
Significant changes in coastal fish species distribution are observed in south-eastern Australia, partly due to climate change. The study identified 43 species exhibiting shifts thought to be climate-related, including warm temperate surf-zone species and range increases for Snapper and Rock Flathead.
A new study investigates the temporal relationship between cough and reflux using a validated sound recording device. The study found that 70% of patients exhibited temporal associations, with cough preceding reflux in 48% of cases.
A review of 19 papers found that healthcare professionals lack adequate training and support to care for people who self-harm. The study highlights the importance of education and training in improving attitudes and quality of care.
Researchers found that celiac disease is on the rise, with increasing cases in the elderly, challenging the common speculation that it develops in childhood. Environmental factors may play a role in developing tolerance to gluten before an autoimmune disease sets in.
Researchers have developed a method to extract and present viral surface fragments, known as epitopes, into computer-designed protein scaffolds that lock them in recognizable shapes. This approach has implications for vaccine design and the development of antibodies against HIV/AIDS.
A new report by York University researchers finds that homeless young people are disproportionately victimized by violence and crime. The study, which interviewed 244 homeless youths across Toronto, highlights the need for a balanced response to address youth homelessness and crime.
Researchers have identified LIMK as a crucial regulator of actin cytoskeleton dynamics in cancer metastasis. Inhibiting LIMK function blocks collective invasion of tumor cells, preventing metastasis in breast and squamous carcinoma cells.
Tel Aviv University researchers developed miRNAkey software to analyze microRNA patterns in healthy and diseased tissues, improving understanding of human diseases at a genetic level. The software enables scientists to identify relevant microRNAs, determine their levels, and generate statistically valuable information.
A lifestyle intervention has been shown to provide long-term benefits for individuals with type 2 diabetes, leading to significant weight loss and improvements in fitness, hemoglobin A1c levels, and cholesterol profiles. The study suggests that this approach can help prevent long-term complications of the disease.
The 2010 AAO-HNSF Annual Meeting showcased significant research on the connection between allergic disease and rhinosinusitis, with literature highlighting the united airway concept. Robotic thyroidectomy was also discussed, with experts exploring its feasibility, safety, and future adoption.
Researchers at NPL and Orla Protein Technologies are developing improved TB detection methods to enhance sensitivity, specificity, cost and speed. The project aims to create systems that advance current methods, helping improve healthcare in resource-limiting settings.
Researchers found that gut-invading worms produce a protein that generates regulatory T cells in mice, allowing the worms to establish a foothold. This mechanism also suppresses allergic responses, which may contribute to reduced allergy symptoms in humans infected with intestinal worms.
Researchers will investigate biological mechanisms of broadly neutralizing antibody generation and its relevance to AIDS vaccine design. The U19 grant will support studies using samples from HIV-positive volunteers worldwide.
Researchers at Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center identified a molecular communications pathway influencing hematopoietic stem cell mobilization. Pharmacological inhibition of the Egfr signaling pathway increased stem cell mobilization in mice, suggesting a new rationale for targeted therapies.
Researchers at the University of Utah have developed a new touch-based directional device that can provide safe navigation cues to drivers, even when they're distracted by cell phones or visually impaired. The system uses gentle skin stimulation on the fingertips to convey directions, potentially reducing accidents and improving safety...
A team from UNSW has created a single electron reader, a crucial component needed to build a quantum computer using silicon. This breakthrough opens the path to constructing simpler and more scalable quantum computers.
Scientists have developed a new method to predict where volcanic eruptions will strike, using data from a rare sequence of 13 magmatic events in the Afar desert. By analyzing changes in the earth's crust tension, researchers can identify areas at risk and estimate likelihood of future eruptions.
A new study found that genetic ancestry has no correlation with head and neck cancer stage or survival for African Americans. Researchers used genetic markers to estimate West African ancestry and discovered only 5% of self-reported African Americans had more than 95% West African ancestry, similar to Caucasians.
Researchers presented findings on massive facial trauma from IED blasts, racial differences in head and neck cancer outcomes, patient compliance with voice rest, and advancements in cochlear implant technology. Optical coherence tomography was also used for intraoperative imaging in endocrine surgery.
The 2010 Annual Meeting & OTO EXPO of the American Academy of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery Foundation features over 305 scientific research sessions and 594 posters. Researchers discuss challenges in caring for the aging voice and effective advocacy in healthcare reform.
Scientists at Georgia Tech have developed a technique to convert photons carrying quantum data to telecom wavelengths suitable for long-distance transmission on optical fiber. This innovation boosts quantum memory times, enabling the creation of a possible prototype system for secure information distribution over long distances.
Researchers at Stanford University successfully induced normal patterns of muscle contraction using light, reproducing the natural firing order of motor-nerve fibers. This technique could lead to practical applications for restoring movement in people with physical disabilities, such as stroke or spinal-cord injuries.
Researchers at UCSC and Oxford Nanopore Technologies Ltd demonstrate fine control of DNA translocation through a protein nanopore using electronic feedback. This breakthrough advances towards direct, electrical detection and analysis of single molecules for various applications, including DNA sequencing.
A recent study by Université de Montréal researchers has identified the KCNK18 gene as a key player in common migraines. The mutation disrupts TRESK protein function, altering electrical activity in nerve cells and increasing migraine risk. This finding may lead to new treatment options for people suffering from recurrent headaches.
NASA's Aqua and TRMM satellites detected increasing cloud top temperatures and heavy rainfall around Tropical Storm Matthew. The storm is expected to strengthen further, bringing hurricane conditions and potential flooding to the region.
Researchers argue that economic analysis can inform more effective criminal justice policies by reducing incarceration rates and focusing on prevention. They suggest devolving budgets for custodial sentences to local authorities, with financial incentives to drive cost-saving measures.
Tropical Storm Lisa is currently a tropical storm with maximum sustained winds near 50 mph, forecast to weaken due to colder waters and strong wind shear, then become a remnant low pressure system in the eastern Atlantic by early next week.
Researchers found persistent racial, gender, and insurance-coverage based differences in triage categorization and cardiac testing among emergency room patients. African American and Hispanic patients were less likely to receive immediate care or basic cardiac testing procedures, such as ECGs.
Scientists have successfully cultivated 'ōhelo berries in Hawaii, reducing environmental damage and increasing the fruit's availability for small farms and ornamental purposes. The new cultivar, Kilauea, exhibits improved plant hardiness and vigor, allowing for faster germination and flowering.
Astronomers have discovered a new phenomenon called coreshine, which scatters mid-infrared light by large dust grains in cosmic clouds. This discovery promises to reveal crucial information about the earliest phase of star formation.
Researchers at NC State aim to create a portable device using sound waves to identify landmines, roadside bombs, and suicide bombers. The project seeks to advance understanding of how sound interacts with the environment, which could have significant humanitarian applications.
The NIH awarded a $2.4 million grant to increase diversity in the neuroscience field by preparing minority students and those with disabilities for careers in neuroscience. The grant will support undergraduates from two universities and provide seminars, mentoring, enhanced curricula, and hands-on research experience.
Lillian Feldshuh, an early transcatheter aortic valve recipient, received the Courageous Patient Award at TCT 2010. She was successfully treated for life-threatening aortic stenosis and remains in good health.
The $2 million grant from the National Science Foundation aims to encourage more students to pursue STEM careers and provide support for their success. The program seeks to increase STEM degrees by 782 undergraduates by 2015, targeting retention and persistence to graduation among diverse student groups.
A new national study published in Perspectives on Sexual and Reproductive Health found no link between abortion and depression or low self-esteem in adolescents. The study used a nationally representative sample of 289 respondents and followed them for five years.
A new study published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute found that breast cancer survivors with physical limitations are more likely to die from other diseases due to poorer health. Regular physical activity can reduce the risk of breast cancer recurrence and improve survival rates.
A study by Dr. Klaus Hansen's group at BRIC, University of Copenhagen, reveals that external stressors can activate genes responsible for cellular development and function.
A new study published in Cortex reports that over half of patients recovering from stroke experience phantom limb sensations. Researchers found 27 patients with daily phantom limb experiences, some even able to control their phantom limb. The phenomenon may be underreported due to fear of being labeled 'crazy'.
Research by Dr. Carlos Herrera found that withered petals form a protective barrier around seeds, preventing insect damage and increasing seed ripening rates in lavender. However, the role of petals in plant fertility is complex and requires further study.
A joint MSU-UMich initiative will use the grant to help communities understand and adapt to climate changes in the Great Lakes region. Climate change is projected to impact lake levels, precipitation patterns, and average seasonal temperatures.
Researchers found that experienced gamers showed increased activity in the prefrontal cortex, a region involved in complex tasks. The study suggests that video games can reorganize brain networks, offering hope for future research into Alzheimer's and other cognitive disorders.
A new study by University of Alberta researchers found that those who moved to live closer to outdoor recreation facilities had a higher body mass index (BMI) over six years. In contrast, individuals who prioritized walkability and ease of walking in their neighborhoods maintained stable BMIs.
Scientists at the University of Manchester suggest using building district heating schemes with sustainable fuels could drastically reduce greenhouse gases while being cost-effective. The plans have been met with majority support from focus groups in the UK public.
A team at North Carolina State University has created water-gel-based solar devices that produce electricity, mimicking nature's solar cells. The devices use light-sensitive molecules and electrodes to generate power, potentially replacing silicon-based solar cells with a more environmentally friendly option.
NASA's CloudSat satellite observed a powerful heat engine in Typhoon Malakas, with strong convection and heavy rainfall reported. The storm had maximum winds of around 115 mph and a minimum central pressure of 965 millibars.