A new report by St. Michael's Hospital and Street Health reveals that homeless people are more likely to have a family doctor if they possess a health card or have chronic medical conditions. The report highlights the need for programs to secure and maintain health cards and increase access to primary care in this population.
A new University of British Columbia study found that women are least attracted to smiling, happy men, while men are most attracted to happy women. The study explored first impressions of sexual attraction and discovered dramatic gender differences in how emotions, including happiness, pride, and shame, are perceived.
Researchers at Washington State University have devised a new way to analyze blood spatters at crime scenes, allowing investigators to determine the exact height of a source. The system uses known equations of projectile motion and data points form a neat line on a graph when plotted correctly.
Kepler's first four months of data reveal evidence for over 1,200 planetary candidates, with 408 residing in systems containing two or more planets. These multi-planet systems are characterized by flat orbits, tilted less than 1 degree, and lack Jupiter-sized gas giants.
A study found that medical students in the US have substantial exposure to pharmaceutical industry marketing, even in preclinical years. The extent of their contact is associated with positive attitudes towards marketing and skepticism of negative implications. The authors recommend better education for medical students on the subject ...
Researchers at IUPUI are conducting a pilot study to evaluate the effectiveness of treating depression before a heart attack in reducing future heart disease risk. The study aims to investigate whether an evidence-based computerized treatment for depression can effectively lower heart disease risk.
A study found that postmenopausal women who ate more baked/broiled fish had a 30% lower risk of heart failure compared to those who rarely ate it. Darker fish, such as salmon and mackerel, were associated with a greater risk reduction than lighter fish.
A new Indiana University study challenges the common view that violent programming is a key factor in children's entertainment. Researchers found that violence has an indirect negative effect on boys' enjoyment, while girls do not show a decrease in preference for violent content.
The new journal will be fully sponsored by the Korea-based Future Technology Research Association International (FTRA) and cover multifaceted aspects of human-centric computing technology and information sciences. All research results will be freely available online under the Creative Commons Attribution license.
Researchers at Indiana University suggest that postural control problems may be a core feature of bipolar disorder, affecting areas of the brain involved in mood regulation. The study found that participants with bipolar disorder displayed increased postural sway, particularly when eyes were closed.
A recent study reveals that households in New Orleans broke up more than double the national rate following Hurricane Katrina. The study found that extended-family households were especially vulnerable to breakups due to their composition and response to economic need.
A study at the University of Cambridge found that compulsions lead to obsessions, challenging the traditional understanding of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). The research provides insight into the debilitating repetitive behavior of OCD and could lead to more effective treatments.
Researchers at UTHealth found diabetics are three to five times more likely to contract TB than non-diabetics, with 25% of cases attributed to diabetes. Improved diabetes prevention and management, including screening for TB, can benefit both diseases.
Researchers identified a new probiotic bacteria-derived soluble protein that provides therapeutic protection against intestinal inflammation. The protein, p40, was delivered to the colon and protected mice from colitis through an EGFR-dependent mechanism.
Researchers at Scripps Research Institute successfully synthesized a rare natural product, conolidine, which shows potent analgesic properties comparable to morphine. The compound has remarkably few side effects, but its mechanism of action remains unknown.
A study published in Perspectives on Psychological Science suggests that Four Loko's unique flavor profile may contribute to its high intoxication rate, rather than caffeine. The 'Four-Loko effect' highlights how unusual flavors can heighten the effects of alcohol, making it more potent.
The American Society for Microbiology warns that globalization is exposing the US food supply to unsanitary practices, particularly in seafood and fresh produce imports. The FDA inspects less than 1% of imported entries annually, highlighting the need for both government verification and industry responsibility.
A 22-year-old undergraduate student has made a groundbreaking discovery of the Universe's 'missing mass' by detecting filaments in X-ray data. This finding is significant as it proves the prediction that the mass should be low in density but high in temperature, providing valuable insights into large-scale cosmic structures.
A recent study found that prayer about health issues increased dramatically among American adults over the past three decades, with 49% of respondents praying in 2007. The study also revealed correlations between prayer and socioeconomic factors, such as income and education level.
Rebeca Wong has been awarded a $3.03 million NIH grant to continue her longitudinal aging study in Mexico, collecting data on thousands of participants across various topics. The Mexican Health and Aging Study aims to compare health outcomes with other national surveys globally.
Chemical engineers at Stevens have developed a microreactor that converts fossil fuels into pure hydrogen for fuel cell batteries, offering a reliable and reusable power source. This innovation has the potential to reduce waste from disposable batteries and provide soldiers with a dependable way to recharge critical devices.
A new resource, 'REU in a Box,' has been developed by Oregon State University to support faculty in creating and implementing undergraduate research experiences. This tool provides practical guidance on topics such as student assessment, literature reviews, and presenting research findings.
Researchers at UC Santa Barbara developed a new method of nanoscopic imaging that could lead to early detection and diagnosis of multiple sclerosis. The study focused on the myelin sheath, a membrane surrounding nerves compromised in MS patients.
Researchers discovered a hyperactive Wnt signaling pathway in human sarcoma cells, which increases cell growth and proliferation by increasing CDC25A gene expression. This suggests that medications targeting the Wnt pathway may be effective in treating human sarcomas.
A recent SAGE publication examines how poverty and lack of education affect young, disadvantaged dads, with 68-75% being fathers by age 30. The issue explores solutions to reconnect disconnected dads to their children, improving child and family economic and emotional well-being.
The 2010/2011 winter survey found total losses of 30% from managed honey bee colonies nationwide. Beekeepers reported an average loss of 38.4%, with 61% experiencing losses greater than economically acceptable levels.
The FASEB MARC Program has announced a $1,650 travel award recipient for the 2011 GSA C. elegans meeting. The program aims to increase underrepresented minorities engaged in biomedical research, with a focus on promoting diversity and inclusion.
A recent study found that granting patients full access to their medical records increases their satisfaction without causing anxiety. The research, published in the Cancer journal, suggests that providing accurate information through medical records can complement verbal communication with physicians and improve patient outcomes.
Researchers have discovered liquid crystals that can detect low concentrations of bacterial endotoxin with high sensitivity. This breakthrough has the potential to replace the current LAL assay using horseshoe crab blood, reducing costs and variability associated with the test.
Researchers at Brigham and Women's Hospital discovered a novel mechanism of action for fluorinated glucosamine, which blocks the synthesis of key carbohydrate structures linked to skin inflammation and cancer progression. This finding has significant implications for developing new treatments against these conditions.
The Stevens Institute of Technology's Center for Science Writings awarded the 2010 book Storms of My Grandchildren by Dr. James Hansen the Green Book Award, recognizing its compelling call to action on global climate change. The award honors books that address environmental issues in a compelling way.
A study published in the Journal of the American College of Surgeons found that comprehensive tort reform in Texas resulted in an 80% decrease in surgical malpractice lawsuits and a significant reduction in associated costs. The study, which spanned 18 years, showed that the prevalence of lawsuits dropped from 40/100,000 operations to ...
Researchers found that complex drug labels contain an average of 70 side effects, with antidepressants and newer treatments having the most reactions. The study aims to improve patient safety by presenting information efficiently to healthcare providers.
A phase II study by the University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center found that an antibody-guided chemotherapy drug eradicated or greatly reduced ALL cells in 61% of patients with resistant or recurrent disease. This makes it a potential most active single-agent therapy for ALL.
Researchers have successfully isolated individual charged particles like DNA molecules using a method called Paul trapping, which could lead to personalized diagnosis and treatment. The device is small, inexpensive, and can be used on a single chip, allowing for rapid testing of patient samples in offices.
Researchers at Stanford University developed a special wound dressing that significantly reduced scar tissue caused by incisions in animal tests and early clinical trials. The novel 'stress-shielding device' provides uniform compression across the wound, reducing scarring and potentially making surgical revisions more appealing.
Researchers have discovered a link between a variant of the fat mass and obesity associated gene (FTO) and an increased incidence of breast cancer. The study, published in BMC Medical Genetics, found that people with this genetic variant have a 30% higher chance of developing breast cancer.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins University have developed a new technique to detect both genetic diseases and chromosomal abnormalities in IVF embryos. This method allows for the simultaneous detection of single-gene mutations and aneuploidy, enabling couples to choose healthy embryos for implantation.
A study comparing transarterial embolization to surgery in patients with uncontrolled peptic ulcer bleeding after endoscopy found TAE is a safe procedure with high technical success rate. It reduces the need for surgery and overall complications without increasing mortality.
Researchers identified a new probiotic bacteria-derived soluble protein that can protect intestinal cells from inflammation and injury in mice models of colitis. The protein's delivery to the colon provided therapeutic protection against ulcerative intestinal inflammatory disorders.
A team of Penn psychologists overturned the long-standing associative word learning theory, finding that children learn their first words through moments of insight rather than gradual exposure. Experiments involving short video segments showed that repeated exposure did not improve accuracy, and early informative vignettes were crucia...
Vitamin D deficiency is prevalent among African-American patients with MS, largely due to regional UV exposure and geographic factors. Low vitamin D levels were found in nearly 77% of MS patients compared to 71% without the disease.
The study proposes a novel molecular mechanism for detecting chromosome alignment on the mitotic spindle, preventing errors in cell division. The checkpoint mechanism ensures irreversible progression through the cell cycle, blocking further progress until problems are corrected.
Researchers discovered that antiferromagnetism and superconductivity can coexist in certain solids, contradicting previous theories. This finding provides crucial experimental evidence for understanding the interplay between various phases in high-temperature superconductors.
The ALICE RAP project aims to redefine the concept of addiction in Europe, considering economic, health, and social consequences. It will analyze the potential of new approaches to govern and manage addiction using foresight methodologies.
The CDC study found that a significant proportion of respondents had traveled to countries with reported prion diseases, increasing the risk of exposure. Hunting and venison consumption were also associated with increased risk of prion disease exposure, particularly in areas with chronic wasting disease.
The National Physicians Alliance recommends limiting antibiotic prescribing, avoiding imaging for low back pain, and not ordering cardiac screening tests in low-risk patients. The suggestions aim to make primary care more affordable and efficient while improving patient health.
Scientists have identified the molecular structure of proteins enabling bacterial cells to transfer electrical charge, opening the door to efficient microbial fuel cells. The discovery could also lead to the development of microbe-based agents for oil and uranium pollution cleanup.
Women who gained 2-3 BMI units between the first and second pregnancy were more likely to develop GDM in the second pregnancy. Conversely, women who lost over 6 pounds between pregnancies reduced their risk of developing GDM by approximately 50%. The association was strongest in women who were overweight or obese in their first pregnancy.
A recent study using data collected between 2006 and 2007 found evidence for 10 free-floating planets roughly the mass of Jupiter, suggesting they are common. The discovery supports the 'ejection' scenario where planets are kicked out from their solar systems due to close gravitational encounters with other planets or stars.
A new study by American Cancer Society researchers found that long-term regular acetaminophen use was associated with a 38% lower risk of prostate cancer. The study suggests that acetaminophen may provide biological clues about prostate cancer development, warranting further research.
Regular cultural activities like visiting museums and theatres improve mental health in adults, with receptive cultural activities showing greatest benefits for men. Engaging in creative or active cultural activities also has positive effects on perceived health and well-being.
A new study reveals that babies born at 39 weeks have a significantly lower risk of death compared to those born earlier, with mortality rates declining by up to 50% per week after 37 weeks. This research supports the importance of continuing pregnancy until 39 weeks for optimal baby health.
Researchers found that game-worn football faceshields are more susceptible to breaking than new ones, especially when subjected to lower forces of impact. The study recommends routine inspection and replacement of used faceshields to prevent potential eye injuries.
Researchers at the Peter Munk Cardiac Centre have identified a protein called PINK1 as a potential trigger for heart failure. The absence of this protein causes heart cells to produce less energy, leading to cell death and hypertrophy.
Dr. William R. Ward has made fundamental contributions to understanding how planets and satellites form and dynamically evolve, including the giant impact theory of lunar formation and Mars' polar axis oscillations
The Hubble Space Telescope has observed the historic variable star V1, which helped confirm the size of the universe and its expansion. The observations, conducted in collaboration with amateur astronomers, provide new insights into the properties of Cepheid variables and their role in measuring distances to galaxies.
A Penn-led study has identified common clinical activities where changes in practice could lead to higher quality care and better use of finite clinical resources. The 'Top 5' list for internal medicine includes practices such as not overimaging, not overscreening, and using generic statins.
Researchers replicated inflammatory gene changes of human kidney progression from mild to severe diabetic nephropathy using a mouse model. The study could lead to new understanding and potential treatments for diabetic nephropathy, the leading cause of kidney failure.
Researchers analyzed 119 clinical trials to determine the magnitude of placebo effect and no treatment effect on headache recovery rate. The study found a high overall recovery rate of 36% in 'no treatment' control groups.