Pharmaceuticals flown on space missions may have shorter shelf-life due to radiation and vibration, according to a NASA study. The researchers found that exposure to chronic low-dose ionizing radiation and repackaging of solid medications can compromise stability.
A new Northwestern Medicine study found that hospitalization can lead to temporary memory loss and difficulty understanding discharge instructions in seniors. However, the cognitive impairment typically resolves on its own within a month after hospital discharge.
A new study by the University of Cincinnati reveals that urban adolescents with asthma who use integrative medicine like prayer or relaxation experience improved mental and physical health outcomes. The research found that spiritual struggles contribute uniquely to a patient's quality of life, beyond demographic variables.
Researchers at the University of Manchester have discovered a new way to interconnect electron spin and charge in graphene, enabling direct manipulation of electric current using microelectronics. This breakthrough has significant implications for spintronics, with potential applications in sensors, memories, and transistors.
A new trial shows that standard-dose clopidogrel is as effective as double the dose for preventing cardiovascular events in patients with high on-treatment platelet reactivity. Researchers argue that a personalized approach to antiplatelet therapy may be more beneficial, warranting further investigation.
New research from Carnegie Institution scientists found that black carbon aerosols have a greater effect on surface warming when emitted near the land and ocean surface. However, as altitude increases, surface warming decreases, while cooling occurs in the stratosphere.
A WSU study evaluates the use of technology in Canadian K-12 distance education, finding that all provinces have implemented some form of distance learning. The study also highlights Alberta's blended approach to online learning, improving student outcomes.
Researchers identified a step-by-step process involving TET1 and Apobec1 that converts methylated cytosine into hydroxymethylated cytosine, indicating a potential unified mechanism for DNA methylation status change. The discovery has implications for understanding diseases associated with epigenetic abnormality.
Researchers in China have developed a genetically modified form of E. coli that can extract toxic pesticides like parathion and methyl parathion from the air with high efficiency. The biofilter system has shown average removal efficiencies of up to 95.2% for parathion and 98.6% for methyl parathion.
An experimental drug called NVP-BEZ235 blocks a crucial cancer cell signaling pathway, slowing ovarian cancer growth and increasing survival in an ovarian cancer mouse model. The drug also re-sensitizes resistant cancer cells to platinum chemotherapy, offering new hope for fighting drug resistance.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine have made significant progress in understanding the mechanisms behind losartan's protective effects against life-threatening aortic aneurysms in patients with Marfan syndrome. By identifying key proteins involved in the disease process, the team has found new targets for potential treatments.
A recent study found that breastfeeding mothers are perceived as less competent than non-breasting mothers, with biases detected among both men and women. This prejudice may deter some women from breastfeeding, highlighting the need for greater support to overcome negative experiences.
A research study by the Rey Juan Carlos University in Madrid found that women are more likely to self-medicate than men in Spain. The study, published in Pharmacoepidemiology and Drug Safety, revealed that 20.17% of Spaniards use medication without a medical prescription, with women accounting for 16.93% of those cases.
A group of radiologists and biochemists have developed a new approach to improve the accuracy and reliability of medical imaging. By creating standardized benchmarks and calibration objects, they aim to provide hard numbers that can be used to justify treatments and accelerate cancer treatment approvals.
Researchers at Scripps Research Institute and Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory have discovered a key enzyme in DNA replication that may be exploited to develop an effective anti-cancer therapy. The enzyme FEN1 works in a way opposite to accepted dogma, providing a sophisticated machine for cutting DNA.
A study of 82 diabetic patients undergoing CABG found aggressive glycemic control did not improve survival rates. Instead, it led to a higher incidence of hypoglycemic events without significant benefits in major adverse effects.
Experts warn that disclosing quantitative data to patients can backfire due to numeracy problems and biases in interpreting data. Studies show that decision aids increase patient knowledge but may not always lead to informed decisions. Researchers advocate for further research on presenting risk information to aid decision-making.
A University of Missouri researcher found that people who overuse credit believe products have unrealistic properties, leading to unfulfilled expectations. The study recommends revising financial literacy programs to help consumers recognize the limitations of material purchases.
Scientists discovered remarkably preserved remains of ancient organisms in Scottish lochs that lived a billion years ago. These fossils show complex algal cells with nucleus, mitochondria, and chloroplasts, indicating early evolution of photosynthesis and sexual reproduction.
A new study by the University of California, San Francisco suggests that treating HIV-infected adults as soon as they are diagnosed can significantly reduce the rate of new HIV infections among men who have sex with men in San Francisco. This approach is expected to cut new infections by almost 60% over five years.
Researchers found that walking for one hour a day improved insulin sensitivity, increased adiponectin levels, and reduced oxidative damage in obese individuals with prediabetes. This exercise regimen may help slow the progression of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease.
Researchers have discovered a new class of ceramic coatings that could offer jet engines special protection against volcanic ash damage. The coatings were tested and found to resist damage caused by ash deposits, with one coating offering sufficient protection against small amounts of ash ingested by the engine over time.
Researchers found that solar activity during the Little Ice Age may have contributed to the period's cooling, suggesting factors other than low sunspot activity played a role. Glacial dust storms are a significant source of iron to the Gulf of Alaska, impacting phytoplankton growth and ecosystems.
Researchers at NC State University have developed a material that can bind and trap radioactive iodide in drinking water, making it safe for human consumption. The material, which combines hemicellulose and chitosan, can also extract heavy metals from water, providing a sustainable solution for desalination.
New research shows older adults are consuming higher levels of carotenoids, flavonoids and other phytonutrients, with up to 80% higher intakes found among those aged 65+, compared to their younger peers. This increase in phytonutrient intake may offer protective health benefits for women, including breast and ovarian cancer prevention.
Researchers found that low doses of penta-BDEs altered gene expression in reproductive organs and thyroid hormones in female rat offspring exposed in utero and via maternal milk. Osteopontin gene expression was significantly increased, which may have long-term implications for human health.
A study comparing US and UK ICU admissions found that UK patients were sicker upon admission, while US patients required more continuing care after discharge. Hospital mortality rates varied between the countries due to differences in healthcare systems and discharge practices.
Stillbirths occur at an alarming rate of 3 million annually worldwide. Families affected often struggle with grief and lack recognition, leading to feelings of isolation. The Lancet's commentary emphasizes the need for increased awareness and support for those experiencing stillbirth.
Researchers found that short-term high-fat diets reduced cardiac tissue damage and improved function in animal models. A sudden switch to a regular diet after the 'splurge' period offered prolonged cardioprotection.
A new research study found that a commonly used strategy to reduce the spread of resistant bacteria in hospital ICUs had no significant effect. The study, which used active surveillance and expanded use of barrier precautions, did identify a large subgroup of patients not previously known to be colonized with MRSA or VRE.
A York University report highlights the need for a greater emphasis on prevention, family reconnection, and rapid re-housing efforts in Canada's approach to youth homelessness. The report cites successful programs in Australia and the UK that have helped young people reconnect with their families or move into independent housing.
A new short Comparative Genomic Hybridisation (CGH) method enables comprehensive analysis of all chromosomes and detection of chromosomal anomalies. The technique, developed by Mariona Rius, has shown an implantation rate of 60%, successfully resulting in a pregnancy for a woman with two chromosomal translocations.
A new study found that areas of the brain affected by Alzheimer's disease may start shrinking up to a decade before dementia is diagnosed. The researchers used MRI scans to measure brain size in people with no memory problems and followed them for years to see who developed the disease.
Research published at University of Rochester Medical Center found that high induction and primary C-section rates in low-risk pregnant women have no impact on newborn health. The study's findings question the increasing trend of interventions at delivery in the US, suggesting that 'more is not always better'.
Researchers found that treating vascular risk factors can help slow memory decline and reduce the risk of developing dementia. Those receiving full treatment were 39% less likely to develop Alzheimer's disease compared to those receiving no treatment.
Researchers at Scripps Research Institute identified a change in calcium influx into specific brain neurons that is fundamental to long-term memory. This increase, known as a memory trace, is observed in normal fruit flies but absent in mutants with impaired long-term memory.
A new vaccine approach using an adjuvant to stimulate the immune system shows promise in a study of Gambian infants, highlighting potential for single-shot protection at birth and reducing immunizations needed. The study's findings could have major wins for global health.
Scientists analyzed over 300 studies to identify promising energy storage technologies, including high-tech batteries and redox flow batteries. These innovations aim to integrate and store renewable energy efficiently, enabling the growth of sustainable power grids.
Two unique types of mirrors, Primary and Secondary EDUs, have arrived at NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center. The mirrors will work together to observe distant galaxies and unexplored planets. The Primary mirror is composed of 18 hexagonal segments, while the Secondary mirror directs light from the Primary mirror to Webb's instruments.
Researchers found that copepod carcasses play a crucial role in understanding oceanic food webs. Non-predatory mortality accounted for over 10% of all copepod deaths, providing insights into the fate of these tiny crustaceans.
A study by Brown University researchers found that children were the victims in more than half of emergency room visits for eye injuries related to aerosol cans. The youngest children, ages 0 to 4, accounted for an estimated 2,830 emergency room visits during the study timeframe.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health developed a non-steroid based strategy to improve lung's innate immune defense against bacterial infection in COPD patients. Sulforaphane, an ingredient present in broccoli, was used to enhance the Nrf2 pathway in the lungs.
Researchers found that alpine marmots increase n-6 polyunsaturated fatty acid concentrations in their cell membranes before hibernation, preparing for low temperatures. This seasonal change is reversed upon hibernation termination and appears to be controlled by an endogenous clock.
MIT researchers develop new communications protocols using motion detection to improve handoffs, throughput and bit rate selection on wireless networks. Experiments show gains of up to 50% in network performance.
Researchers discovered Osedax living on tuna and wahoo bones, contradicting earlier assumptions. The study confirms Osedax as generalists that exploit various vertebrate bones, shedding light on their evolution.
A new study from Rhode Island Hospital researchers shows that obese individuals with social anxiety related only to their weight may experience anxiety as severe as those with social anxiety disorder. The findings suggest that excluding obesity-related social anxiety from SAD diagnosis may hinder identification of the disorder.
Researchers at Queen's University Belfast have pioneered a needle-free test for medicines in premature babies, reducing trauma and improving accuracy. The new approach uses blood spots obtained from heel-pricks, allowing for more precise dosage calculations and better treatment outcomes.
A recent study found that chronic cerebral venous insufficiency (CCSVI) is more prevalent in multiple sclerosis (MS) patients, particularly those with progressive forms of the disease. The research suggests CCSVI may be a consequence of MS progression rather than a cause, warranting further investigation.
Daily walks increase insulin sensitivity, improve liver health marker PUI, and boost hormone adiponectin levels, linked to fat-burning effects. The study suggests exercise as a medicine for managing non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.
Researchers created patient-derived iPSCs, which were then differentiated into neurons to study schizophrenia. The study found that these neurons connected less frequently with each other and had misregulated gene expression profiles, but Loxapine restored connectivity. The findings provide a new model for understanding the disease mec...
A new MRI device guides surgeons during electrode implantation, potentially cutting surgery time in half and making the procedure faster and more comfortable for patients. The device was developed by a team of UCSF neurosurgeons and radiologists to improve deep brain stimulation outcomes for Parkinson's disease patients.
Researchers at Tel Aviv University have developed an algorithm that enables computers to anticipate the future and make more efficient decisions. The algorithm, funded by Google, aims to minimize 'regret' in computer decision-making by analyzing variables and adapting to situations.
Perampanel, a new drug, has shown promise in reducing seizures in people with hard-to-control epilepsy. The study involved 387 participants who took either the 12mg or 8mg dose of perampanel and reported a significant reduction in seizure frequency compared to those taking a placebo.
Hybrid spintronic computer chips are being developed using a combination of inorganic and organic materials. The new technology could lead to computers that require less power and produce less heat, enabling instant on and flexibility. This breakthrough promises significant advances in information processing.
Researchers have found that brain nerve stimulation can accelerate learning in laboratory tests, leading to new understanding of how the brain learns and encodes new skills. The study also showed that large changes in the brain are meaningful and not merely coincidental.
A Loma Linda University study found that vegetarians experience a 36 percent lower prevalence of metabolic syndrome than non-vegetarians. The condition is associated with an increased risk of heart disease, diabetes, and stroke.
The Toronto XVIVO System successfully treated and improved the function of high-risk donor lungs, allowing them to be safely transplanted. This technique could significantly expand the donor organ pool and improve outcomes after transplantation.
A study published in Psychological Science found that people's values and judgments are linked to their motor skills, with right-handers favoring the right side. The research used brain-injured patients and healthy volunteers to investigate how much time it takes for individuals to switch their preferences.
The US Coast Guard has begun trials of the PROTECT system, a computer application developed by USC-engineered that randomizes response vessel schedules to prevent adversaries from exploiting patterns. The system, designed to optimize deterrence effects, is being tested in Boston Harbor with a force of five to ten response boats.
The book highlights the crucial role of policy mechanisms, such as the feed-in tariff, in promoting widespread solar energy deployment. In California, a new law aims to make solar affordable at the municipal level.