Researchers found that weight-based dosing of taribavirin achieves comparable efficacy to ribavirin for treating chronic hepatitis C, with lower rates of anemia. The study suggests a safer alternative for HCV treatment while maintaining efficacy.
A Mayo Clinic study found that nerve inflammation may cause postsurgical neuropathy in some patients, leading to pain, numbness, and weakness. Immunotherapy can quickly improve symptoms in these cases.
The report examines how individuals behave in stock and credit markets, noting that people tend to be more influenced by perceived risk than objective risk. It also discusses how financial crises impact people's well-being, including the role of cognitive biases and affective social influences.
Spanish researchers have discovered a genetic link between the 677C>T variant and osteoporotic vertebral fractures in post-menopausal women. This finding highlights the importance of genetic analysis in identifying individuals at high risk for bone-related illnesses.
Researchers at UC Davis discovered that Salmonella bacteria create an environment in the human intestine to enhance its reproductive success. The bacteria use tetrathionate respiration, a sulfur compound produced by the immune system's response, to outgrow beneficial microbes and promote severe diarrhea.
Researchers create panels that can harness hygroelectricity, a phenomenon where water in the atmosphere picks up an electrical charge. This technology has the potential to provide renewable energy, especially in humid regions like the northeastern and southeastern US.
A study found that breast cancer survivors with functional limitations affecting motion, strength, and dexterity are at risk of dying from other causes, but not breast cancer recurrence. The study highlights the importance of addressing physical limitations in cancer survivorship plans.
Scientists have identified a potential new treatment for toxoplasmosis, an infection affecting almost 2 billion people worldwide. Triclosan, commonly found in soaps and toothpastes, has shown promise as a guiding light for developing effective medications.
The new book discusses research on the impact of alcohol on the growing body and offers practical tips for parents to talk to their children about drinking. Studies show that delaying the first drink can make a big difference in reducing later-life problems.
A Princeton University-led team has developed a system to produce realistic movie simulations of earthquakes based on complex computer models. The movies will be made available worldwide within hours of an earthquake, providing researchers with enhanced understanding and tools to improve maps of the Earth's interior.
A study published in Infection Control and Hospital Epidemiology found that doctors often prescribe antibiotics to patients with viral respiratory tract infections, despite the lack of clinical benefit. This overuse of antibiotics can contribute to the development of resistant bacterial strains.
Researchers found that power users prefer customization to control their information universe, while nonpower users prefer personalized experiences with assured privacy. This study highlights the importance of considering user experience and privacy concerns when designing online news platforms.
A Virginia Tech researcher is developing a massive data collection system that relies on information captured by 'citizen scientists' to aid in disaster response. The system uses smartphones to collect photographic and sensor data from affected areas, which can be quickly sifted through by responders.
Hurricane Igor brought heavy rainfall and strong winds to Newfoundland, Canada, causing extensive flooding, power outages, and wind damage. The storm's circulation increased as it moved north, extending tropical-storm force winds up to 520 miles from its center.
The Northwestern University-led trial assesses the safety and tolerability of human embryonic stem cell-derived oligodendrocyte progenitor cells in paralyzed subjects with spinal cord injuries. The goal is to evaluate if these stem cells improve neuromuscular control or sensation in the trunk or lower extremities.
Researchers have found dry water to be an effective material for absorbing carbon dioxide, with the ability to store gases safely. It also accelerates catalyzed reactions used in producing consumer products such as drugs, food ingredients, and other goods.
Researchers have discovered a mechanism to detect bacteria in the womb, opening up new possibilities for preventative treatments. This unique environment relies on a simpler form of immunity called the innate system, as the adaptive response is underdeveloped.
The University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science's Chesapeake Biological Laboratory is rebuilding its historic research pier after receiving a $1.7 million National Science Foundation grant. The pier, which has played a crucial role in climate change and fisheries management research since 1936, sustained major damage from r...
Researchers at Oregon Health & Science University discovered that multipolar mitosis, a form of cell division typically associated with cancer, can produce diverse and viable cells capable of protecting the liver from injury. This process may reveal why some individuals are more susceptible to liver diseases.
A new system is being developed to provide accurate patient histories, assist in treatment, and optimize remote medical diagnosis. The integrated LTM/iRevive system will guide caregivers through the observational recording process and reduce errors, allowing for greater focus on providing care.
The University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine has awarded $100,000 to Mo Salman, Nikkita Patel, and Brittany Gross for their innovative projects advancing veterinary medicine. Salmon's work focuses on infectious disease management, while Patel and Gross develop public outreach initiatives and sustainable dairy farms.
UT researcher Francisco Úbeda and Andy Gardner found that genomic imprinting affects children's behavior, with paternal genes promoting altruism and maternal genes encouraging self-interest. This discovery has implications for understanding neurological disorders like autism and psychosis.
The American Society for Radiation Oncology (ASTRO) honored outstanding researchers in radiation oncology, recognizing excellence in clinical and basic science research. The awards include Resident Clinical/Basic Science Research Awards, Resident Poster Viewing Awards, and Annual Meeting Scientific Abstract Awards.
Researchers from the USDA have identified a group of enzymes known as feruloyl esterases that can break down key links between plant cell wall polymers. These enzymes, produced by certain microbes, have been isolated and cloned for use in Escherichia coli to improve biofuel production efficiency.
Researchers at the University of Missouri found that resistance training during weight regain can maintain health gains, including reduced risks for diabetes and heart disease. Participants who performed supervised resistance training three times a week maintained improvements in cardiorespiratory fitness and strength.
Researchers discovered that combining practice with additional sensory stimulation can lead to significant learning gains. This approach may reduce the effort required for learning and improve therapies for children with language learning impairments or adults seeking to enhance perceptual abilities.
A study by Timothy Vyse and colleagues found that common CRP genetic variants are associated with acute-phase serum CRP concentrations in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. This association may influence therapeutic decision making and lead to improved clinical interpretation of inflammatory disease activity.
Researchers describe DNA hairpin folding process in water with atomic resolution, finding competition between fast and slow routes and random exploration of microscopic details. This breakthrough has significant implications for therapeutic strategies based on oligonucleotides and RNA interference treatments.
Researchers at Fox Chase Cancer Center identified over 60 proteins necessary for cancer cells to survive with EGFR inhibitors, demonstrating a two-hit strategy that increases tumor cell death. This approach will open the door for future therapies and has already led to two clinical trials testing innovative drug combinations.
A robotically assisted percutaneous coronary intervention system has been shown to be safe and feasible in a first-in-human study, reducing radiation exposure and contrast media usage. The technique allows for technical precision and improved procedural effectiveness compared to manual PCI.
Researchers developed the FishSmart program to improve fisheries management, involving stakeholders in the decision-making process. The program resulted in more conservative harvest measures for king mackerel in the Southeast United States, protecting both commercial and recreational interests.
A new study reports a low stricture recurrence rate of postoperative biliary strictures after endoscopic stent placement, with successful retreatment options available. The study followed up on patients who underwent the treatment from 2001 to 2010, finding that most remained asymptomatic and had normal liver function tests.
Researchers led by Dr. Akihiro Yamanaka discovered that orexin-releasing neurons have a self-excitation mechanism that activates each other, maintaining high-level activity and wakefulness. This finding overturns an existing theory and suggests that this mechanism may be involved in insomnia.
A growing concern is the increasing volume of clinical trials and systematic reviews published every day. The authors propose reducing unnecessary trials to prioritize truly systematic reviews, ensuring that patient needs are met through valid answers. Open access to these resources is also emphasized.
The Webinos project aims to create a universal application platform for cross-platform use of services and technologies across mobile, PC, TV, and in-car devices. The consortium is developing an open source platform and software components that will enable industry-wide collaboration and eliminate economic barriers.
Gretchen Daily's innovative research places a value on natural ecosystem services, leading to increased momentum in conservation efforts. Her work, including the InVEST software program, informs global policy decisions on land use and resource management.
A new drug-eluting stent design demonstrated superiority over a traditional drug-eluting stent at 6 months, according to a study led by Laura Mauri, MD. The bioresorbable polymer and stent design showed better clinical outcomes and reduced stent thrombosis risk without compromising anti-restenotic efficacy.
A recent study published in the American Journal of Roentgenology found that the incidence of serious infection after common ultrasound-guided procedures is low. The researchers reviewed 13,534 procedures and reported only 14 procedure-related infections, with nearly all patients improving on antibiotics alone.
China's rapid growth has led to significant environmental challenges with worldwide implications, emphasizing the need for a systems approach to tackle these issues. The country's biodiversity is threatened by extinction, and climate change requires global cooperation to develop low-emission industries.
A study published in Preventive Cardiology found that doctors' own health habits influence their confidence in counseling patients on healthy diet and exercise. The survey showed that attending physicians were more likely to counsel patients on these topics than trainees, especially those who exercised regularly.
The World Alzheimer Report 2010 estimates that dementia costs $604 billion globally, with the problem set to accelerate in coming years. The report urges governments worldwide to take immediate action to address the social and health consequences of dementia.
Researchers at Case Western Reserve University have discovered the weakest link in tendons, a crucial connection between bones and muscles. The discovery focuses on collagen fibrils, which are five times stronger than tendons but may hold the key to increasing flexibility and healing damage.
Researchers developed a novel fluorescence anisotropy method to study large protein complexes in real time in live cells. The technique resolves the state of order or disorder of individual protein domains within these complexes, providing new insights into their dynamics and function.
A study by researchers at the University of Toronto Scarborough found that using an inner voice helps individuals exercise self-control and resist impulsive decisions. The team conducted tests where participants were unable to verbalize messages to themselves, leading to increased impulsivity.
Scientists at the University of Pennsylvania are developing building 'skins' that can adapt to environmental changes, increasing energy efficiency. The project combines insights from cell biology and engineering to create responsive materials.
Researchers have discovered that an enzyme called NOX4 produces hydrogen peroxide after a stroke, leading to nerve cell death. Inhibiting this enzyme with a new drug reduces brain damage and preserves brain functions in mice with stroke.
Researchers at the University of Copenhagen have discovered that brain cell communication relies on three copies of the 'linking bridge' or SNARE complex to enable rapid fusion of vesicles with membranes. This process allows for simultaneous signal transmission, which is crucial for cognitive functions and overall brain activity.
The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) has awarded $2.5 million to researchers developing novel approaches to treat addiction. New gene therapies, immunotherapies, and compounds are being investigated to reduce the devastating effects of tobacco and cocaine abuse.
A study found that shorter biological marker length, specifically telomere length, was associated with a higher rate of relapse and lower overall survival in patients with severe aplastic anemia receiving immunosuppressive therapy. The results suggest that telomere length may be a risk factor for disease progression.
Researchers at Michigan State University used digital evolution techniques to study altruism in species, finding that genes are more likely to help those physically similar to them. This challenges traditional kin selection theory and raises the possibility of life on other planets based on shared genes rather than familial units.
A new study uses computer simulations to recreate the parting of the Red Sea, suggesting a strong east wind could have created a safe passage for fleeing Israelites. The research estimates that a wind of 63 miles an hour would have pushed back waters, exposing mud flats for four hours.
Rapid response teams dispatched to patients' rooms may be a quick fix rather than addressing deeper issues, according to Johns Hopkins patient safety expert Peter Pronovost. Better management of patient flow and staff schedules can help improve care for sickest patients.
The new bimonthly journal Cardiac Cath Lab Director is being launched by SAGE, providing administrators and managers with the latest research and evidence-based information on cardiac catheterization procedures. Topics include cardiovascular anatomy, department administration, diagnostic techniques, and patient safety.
Researchers at the University of Sheffield discovered that certain doped-oxide ceramics exhibit non-Ohmic behavior, with electrical resistance changing in response to voltage. The effect is consistent regardless of temperature or atmosphere, but time and final-state resistance are temperature-dependent.
Recent studies suggest that supplemental oxygen therapy may not be beneficial for patients with acute MI who have normal oxygen levels, potentially leading to worse outcomes. Guidelines are needed to address this issue and ensure safe treatment practices.
Cells rapidly repair and maintain their structure when exposed to stress, thanks to a newly discovered protein called zyxin. This protein plays a crucial role in maintaining the cell's internal framework, or cytoskeleton, which is essential for cell function.
The formation of AVAN, the AIDS Vaccine for Asia Network, aims to accelerate research and development of an AIDS vaccine through government advocacy and improved coordination. With over 5 million people infected and 500 million at risk, regional efforts must be strengthened to combat HIV in Asia.
Hurricane Igor is expanding in eastern Canada, prompting hurricane watches for the region. The storm's diameter has grown to 920 miles, with maximum sustained winds near 75 mph and heavy rainfall possible over Newfoundland.
Researchers have developed a method for creating novel metal films using ultrashort laser ablation, which allows for precise control over nanoparticle structures. This technique has potential applications in fields such as surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy and the growth of carbon nanotubes.
A new study published in The Leadership Quarterly found that individuals with high emotional intelligence (EQ) are more likely to be perceived as leaders by their peers. Emotional ability tests revealed that those identified as leaders scored higher on tasks such as emotion recognition and regulation strategies.