A new study presented at the American College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology Annual Meeting recommends innovative interventions to help single parents manage their child's symptoms and keep asthma under control. Food allergy diagnosis is also highlighted as a crucial step in providing proper disease management.
Researchers found that patients taking anti-TNF medications for rheumatoid arthritis had a higher rate of post-surgical flares, but no significant increase in infections or complications. The study suggests that adjusting medication withdrawal timing based on individual half-lives may minimize disease flares
A Mayo Clinic study finds that dual-energy computed tomography (DECT) CT scans can accurately diagnose gout in patients who test negative for the condition. The scans are valuable for diagnosing people with joint fluid that cannot be obtained or fluid analysis comes back negative, especially during acute gout attacks.
A study published in Annals of Internal Medicine finds that proactive screening for hepatitis C among the birth cohort (1945-1965) is cost-effective and can identify over 800,000 currently unidentified cases. This strategy could save thousands of lives each year compared to current case identification methods.
Researchers have developed a theory for a quantum cloning machine that can produce four approximate copies of an initial quantum state, overcoming previous limitations to two or three copies. This advancement has significant implications for message encryption systems and analyzing security using shared secret quantum keys.
A study by the Bank of Spain and Pablo de Olavide University found that public sector salary changes directly affect the private sector. The researchers analyzed data from four EU countries, including Italy, Spain, Germany, and France, to determine the extent of this influence. They also highlighted the role of institutional design, su...
UBC researchers have created a monitoring technique for brain aneurysms using platinum implants as antennas to detect blood levels and indicate implant failure. This approach may enable patients to check their condition at home, reducing the need for invasive procedures.
Researchers created a dry tape inspired by insects' hairy feet, showing improved adhesive properties and resistance to peeling. The tape can be reused thousands of times without losing its grip, making it suitable for various applications.
The Toxoplasma parasite affects dopamine production in infected brain cells, leading to increased dopamine levels and changes in behavior. This discovery may provide new insights into treating human neurological disorders such as schizophrenia, ADHD, and Parkinson's disease.
Research at Johns Hopkins Medicine reveals that Bacteroides fragilis causes colon inflammation and increases activity of a gene called spermine oxidase (SMO), leading to DNA damage and tumor formation. A compound blocking SMO enzyme activity prevented DNA damage in cells.
A new study from NYUCN found that nursing error disclosure is a challenging process for nurses in nursing home settings. The study highlights the need for improved communication processes and policies to enhance patient safety culture.
Researchers measured gaseous nitrogen emissions in US lawns, finding denitrification removes excess nitrogen. Nitrogen removals were equivalent to 15% of annual fertilizer inputs, with most retained in lawn soils. The study's results are encouraging but highlight the need for further work on optimal soil management conditions.
A study published in BioScience found that US East and Gulf Coast ports are disproportionately affected by unmanaged ballast water, allowing invasive species to harm local ecosystems. The West Coast is better protected due to more stringent open-ocean exchange practices.
University of Toronto researchers identify a new class of compounds with phthalimido molecular fragments, exhibiting unique electro-chemical properties. These compounds have the potential to execute all three tasks needed for a functional organic solar cell, including absorbing light, moving electrons and transporting holes.
Experts from NYU Langone Medical Center presented new research findings on osteoarthritis, lupus, and rheumatoid arthritis at the American College of Rheumatology 2011 Annual Scientific Meeting. A study found that increased prescription of narcotic analgesics for OA in the elderly is associated with increased falls and fractures.
A new study investigates how age-related stereotypes influence memory performance in older adults. Researchers found that older adults are more likely to falsely recall unrepresented words due to implicit beliefs about their age. However, by reducing the influence of negative stereotypes, memory performance can be improved.
A new chemical process developed by Harvard researchers simplifies the creation of PET tracers, allowing for real-time 3-D images of biological processes. This breakthrough has the potential to revolutionize drug development and disease diagnosis.
Green algae exposed to carbon nanotubes exhibit reduced growth rates and photosynthetic activity, primarily caused by increased shadowing and agglomeration. However, the absence of absorption by the plants indicates that CNTs do not pose a direct toxic threat.
A new study suggests EU biofuels could be just as bad for the environment as traditional petrol, due to higher-than-thought CO2 emissions from oil palm plantations. The research reveals that expanding palm oil production can increase emissions by up to 60%.
Researchers discovered that crocin in saffron exerts protective effects on brain cells and prevented damage in models of MS. The study also found a link between an ancient virus and cell stress leading to inflammation in the disease.
Researchers at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital identified a chemical known as an acetyl group that serves as a key to mediate protein interactions, which are essential for cell function. The discovery has implications for drug discovery and understanding basic mechanisms governing protein interactions.
A phase III trial found that concurrent chemo-radiotherapy significantly improved the 5-year overall survival of patients with stage II nasopharyngeal carcinoma. The treatment regimen resulted in higher progression-free and distant metastasis-free survival rates compared to radiation alone.
Researchers have for the first time obtained an image of the structure and arrangement of apoA-I molecules using x-ray crystallography. This breakthrough may lead to the development of new drugs to treat diseases such as atherosclerosis and cardiovascular disease.
The Open Networking Summit brought together over 400 attendees from across the country to discuss Software-Defined Networking (SDN) and its potential to transform the industry. Key findings included the potential for SDN to reduce capital and operating expenses, increase revenues, and enable more innovation in networking.
A Northwestern University study found that winter's shorter days and colder temperatures deter older Chicagoans with arthritis from engaging in daily physical activity. The lack of indoor recreational facilities for lower-income individuals exacerbates this issue, leading to serious health consequences.
The world's first standard for geologic storage of carbon dioxide is now available for public review, providing essential guidelines for regulators and industry. The draft standard will be considered based on feedback received during the public review period, which ends on December 27.
Researchers from the University of Leicester are working with Kenyan partners to develop demonstration projects for an ecologically sustainable source of flowers grown at Lake Naivasha. The project aims to reduce water use, improve ecosystem health, and increase access to clean water for local communities.
The measles virus spreads quickly due to its use of the trachea receptor nectine-4, allowing it to contaminate individuals through airborne transmission. This discovery also reveals a potential link between the measles virus and certain cancers, offering new prospects for cancer treatment.
Physicists at Georgia Tech developed a unified theory describing coexistence of liquid and pinned solid phases of electrons in 2D under magnetic field. The theory predicts transition between phases as field is varied, showing emergence of hexagonal Wigner crystal with enhanced stability due to quantum correlations.
Researchers discovered measles virus exits host via nectin-4, a biomarker for certain types of cancer. This finding opens up promising new approaches for targeted cancer therapy.
According to a new article, psychologists recommend making treatment memories stronger through methods like giving more therapy or conducting it in different locations. This approach exploits established principles of learning and has been shown to be effective in reducing relapse rates.
Researchers argue that inland fisheries can be protected by extending sustainable seafood initiatives to freshwater species. Modified approaches would be needed due to smaller and more concentrated fisheries in developing countries.
The European Metrology for Earth Observation and Climate (MetEOC) project aims to enhance the accuracy of climate data by developing a coordinated international capacity. The project will focus on optical domain calibration, ocean color measurements, and ground-based prototype development.
A Heidelberg University Hospital study found that a single protein mediates pathological remodeling processes causing varicose veins. The protein triggers changes in wall architecture, leading to increased cell proliferation and enzyme production.
A study published by the American Thoracic Society found a significant link between body weight, sleep-disordered breathing, and cognitive processing in elementary school children. The research suggests that addressing obesity through public health campaigns may have additional benefits for cognitive development and overall health.
Ecosystem services have declined by 60% due to land conversion for food and fiber production. Experts recommend market-based solutions, such as cap-and-trade policies and certification schemes, to incentivize sustainable supply of these services.
A new mathematical model simulates the effect of climate change on plant-pollinator relationships. In some cases, evolution can rescue mutually dependent species from extinction, but density and distribution of other species play a crucial role in their survival.
A study by Loyola University Health System found that adding a nurse practitioner to a hospital staff can decrease unnecessary emergency department visits. The NP improved continuity of care and troubleshooting for patients, resulting in an improved use of resources and financial benefits.
Researchers have successfully fabricated ultrananocrystalline diamond nanowires with exceptional electrical properties, including sensitivity to gas molecule adsorption at grain boundaries. The discovery offers new possibilities for advanced nanoscale sensors.
Researchers from the University of Arizona have discovered a long-lost megadrought in the southwestern US during the second century AD, lasting nearly 50 years. The study, using tree-ring analysis, reveals a previously unknown drought period that had significant implications for regional climate and water resources.
Researchers found that blocking arginase-2 activity prevents kidney failure in diabetic mice, offering a new therapeutic approach for diabetic nephropathy. The study also suggests that this inhibition may protect against albuminuria and cardiovascular problems.
Research reveals that people's diets are influenced by conflicting norms and environmental cues, rather than just knowledge of healthy eating. According to study findings, having strong beliefs about good eating habits is not enough to change behavior; individuals must also possess the willpower to follow their rules.
A University of Iowa researcher is using a canine model to study the genetic basis of glaucoma. The goal is to identify potential genetic markers that could be used to diagnose and treat humans with the disease.
A large prospective cohort study found no relationship between baseline vitamin D levels and the frequency or timing of acute exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) in patients with severe COPD. Vitamin D supplementation is unlikely to have an effect on AECOPD risk in these patients.
Researchers discovered that brief periods of exercise in early life increased survival rates in mice with spinocerebellar ataxia 1 (SCA1), a devastating inherited disorder. Exercise reduced levels of capicua, a protein partner of ataxin1, which improved symptoms and extended lifespan.
A UofL researcher is developing an oral health plan for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). The pilot study aims to improve oral hygiene and prevent respiratory infections. Caregivers will receive education and support to help their patients with IDD maintain good oral health.
The Materials Project accelerates material discovery, enabling faster development of new materials used in clean energy technologies and common consumer products. Researchers can access a database of over 15,000 inorganic compounds to predict and discover new materials.
Duke University researchers developed YouProve, an Android add-on that monitors images and audio captured on mobile devices for authenticity and fidelity. It uses advanced algorithms to track changes and produce non-forgeable certificates, ensuring the integrity of crowd-sourced content.
Scientists have discovered that human activities are perturbing the nitrogen cycle in tropical forests, leading to an increase in nitrogen levels. This finding has significant implications for tree communities and global change models.
A team of scientists has discovered that the histone protein CenH3 is both necessary and sufficient to trigger the formation of centromeres and pass them on from generation to generation. This discovery may help develop artificial human chromosomes for gene therapies in medicine.
A new study by University of Nevada, Reno professor Deborah Verstegen analyzes public education finance systems across the United States, highlighting funding policies for populations with special educational needs. The research provides valuable insights into accountability and equity issues in US education finance systems.
Researchers at Tel Aviv University have developed a new technology that combines conventional fuel with lower-temperature steam produced by solar power, allowing power plants to operate with 25-50% green energy. This hybrid cycle is highly efficient and uses cost-effective materials, making it a more realistic option for the short-term.
Researchers at NC State University found evolutionary breakpoints in canine chromosomes associated with canine cancer. Mapping these 'fragile' regions could provide new tools for human cancer detection and treatment.
A new gene, LRP1, has been identified as the cause of fatal abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAAs). Researchers found that this gene is specific to AAA and not linked to other cardiovascular diseases. The discovery paves the way for new methods to treat AAAs.
Researchers at Gladstone Institutes have identified a protein called p75NTR that kick-starts the response to low levels of oxygen in cells. This discovery may lead to new therapies for conditions such as heart disease, stroke and certain types of cancer by modifying blood vessel production.
UC research reveals that duck nest boxes, meant to aid cavity-nesting ducks, can trap and kill turtles. Improperly maintained boxes can have devastating effects on wetland turtle populations.
The Materials Project, a Google-like search engine for materials research, uses supercomputers to characterize material properties and organize them into a database. This accelerates the discovery process, enabling researchers to develop novel materials for industries such as energy, transportation, and food packaging.
Researchers successfully established cell cultures from frozen biopsy specimens of the critically endangered Mississippi gopher frog, marking a breakthrough in banking viable amphibian cells. The technique expands conservation efforts to combat diseases and advance reproductive studies.
The cerebellum contributes to creating a cognitive map of the environment through altering chemical communication between its neurons. Inactivation of this ability impairs navigation, as seen in transgenic mice lacking long-term depression in cerebellar neurons.
Researchers at Case Western Reserve University have developed a brain probe that softens after insertion, inducing less scarring and enabling the brain to heal faster. The nanocomposite probe, inspired by the skin of the sea cucumber, changes its mechanical properties in response to water, reducing damage to surrounding brain tissue.