A phase 2 clinical trial demonstrates the benefit of a neurotrophic factor to treat geographic atrophy, a severe form of age-related macular degeneration. The therapy, which delivers ciliary neurotrophic factor using encapsulated cell therapy, slowed vision loss and stabilized vision in patients with high-dose treatment.
Scientists have found that tungsten accumulates in the spleen and bones of laboratory mice, raising concerns about its potential impact on the immune system. Further research is needed to determine the effects of tungsten on human health.
Researchers analyzed metabolites in blood and urine of smokers and non-smokers to understand how tobacco smoke affects human biology. The study found that nicotine-related metabolites varied among smokers, with overall metabolomic profiles differing between male and female individuals.
A new PSA test has been shown to detect aggressive prostate cancer more accurately than current tests and reduce unnecessary biopsies. The Pro-PSA test uses a specific PSA subform called (-2) Pro-PSA and can be analyzed with a mathematical formula to provide an overall Prostate Health Index.
A recent study published in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society found no association between frailty and an increased risk of adverse drug reactions among elderly patients. Instead, researchers discovered that the greatest risk factor for adverse reactions was the number of new medications recently added to a patient's regimen.
Three UC San Diego researchers, Jack Bui, Pamela Itkin-Ansari and Adriana Tremoulet, receive $100,000 grants for their innovative research on improving childhood diseases. Their projects focus on immune system responses to cancer, Type-1 diabetes treatment and Kawasaki disease diagnosis.
A recent study published in American Sociological Review found that flexible schedules and results-oriented workplaces can significantly reduce work-family conflict and turnover. The research, conducted at the University of Minnesota, involved over 600 employees and a company-wide initiative to introduce a 'Results Only Work Environmen...
Research discovers TBL1 protein plays critical role in fatty liver development; higher triglyceride levels associated with lower TBL1 production. This finding may enable early identification of high-risk individuals and targeted dietary interventions.
A new study discovered that specific intestinal microflora metabolize phosphatidyl choline, a common dietary lipid found in animal products, into compounds associated with increased cardiovascular disease risk. The study found that higher levels of these compounds are linked to an increased risk of heart attack, stroke, and death.
Research found that frequent shopping among the elderly increases survival rates, with daily shoppers 27% less likely to die compared to those who shopped less frequently. The study suggests that shopping may improve health by ensuring a good supply of food and promoting social connections.
Researchers at the University of California - San Diego discovered a structural basis for how strep protein can trigger toxic shock. The proteins form dense scaffolds that mimic blood clots, leading to widespread inflammation and organ failure. This breakthrough provides new insights into the pathogenesis of strep-induced toxic shock.
Researchers found that those who think it's warmer than usual are more likely to believe in and feel concern about global warming. The study suggests that weather may have influenced recent declining faith in climate science, but the results may vary depending on the poll.
Scientists are investigating a novel treatment approach for traumatic optic nerve damage, with the goal of preventing permanent vision loss. By targeting an enzyme that regulates adenosine production, researchers hope to strengthen the body's natural anti-inflammatory response.
The study found NDM-1-positive bacteria in drinking-water samples and seepage samples from urban New Delhi, highlighting the need for global action to limit the worldwide spread of NDM-1 producing bacteria. The gene was also detected in pathogenic species like Shigella boydii and Vibrio cholerae.
Researchers created a durable coating using polydopamine inspired by mussel adhesive to protect yeast cells from cell-digesting chemicals and slow down division. The coating could have applications in creating tiny chemical probes, single-cell factories, and cancer therapy armor.
A recent study by University of Missouri experts found that stepchildren build positive relationships with stepparents based on their evaluations of the stepparents' behaviors and treatment. Children also develop relationships influenced by biological parents and other family members.
Researchers from NYU Cancer Institute presented several promising findings at the AACR 102nd Annual Meeting 2011. They developed a novel test to detect early-stage asbestos-related pulmonary cancer with high accuracy, and explored treatment strategies for glioblastomas. Additionally, they mapped genome-wide nickel-related cancer effect...
A new study found that while socioeconomics no longer significantly impact autism diagnoses, poor children from low-income neighborhoods are still less likely to be diagnosed. The study suggests that disparities in diagnosis and treatment persist, particularly for less severe cases.
Researchers from the NIDCD presented studies on the effects of chronic inflammation on taste tissues in the tongue, as well as the neural mechanisms underlying the anticipation of flavors. Their findings offer new insights into the progression of olfactory dysfunction in Alzheimer's disease and potential strategies for treatment.
Researchers discovered that the flavonoid Nobiletin in tangerines prevents obesity and protects against metabolic syndrome, type 2 diabetes, and atherosclerosis. Nobiletin stimulated genes involved in burning excess fat and inhibited those responsible for manufacturing fat, leading to improved insulin sensitivity.
Researchers discovered a molecular switch that regulates protein behavior, expanding biomarker possibilities for diagnosing and tracking mental illnesses. The study found a key modification of the Disrupted In Schizophrenia gene (DISC1) governs its functions in new neuron production and neural migration.
A new method for preventing premature birth has been announced, showing that treating pregnant women at risk with a low-cost progesterone gel can reduce the rate of early preterm delivery in women with short cervix by 45%. The study found that progesterone also reduced respiratory distress syndrome in premature babies.
A worldwide trial is being conducted to assess the use of robotic-assisted keyhole surgery in removing bowel tumours. The study aims to evaluate whether this approach makes cancer less likely to come back and reduces complications for patients.
A University of Michigan ecologist found that biologically diverse streams are better at removing nitrate, a nitrogen compound pollutant, than less rich waterways. Niche partitioning, where each species occupies a unique habitat, increases the stream's absorbent sponge-like ability to clean pollutants.
Research from Concordia University reveals that wisdom has an impact on how people cope in situations and whether they are more or less satisfied with life. Hallmarks of wisdom include knowledge, deep understanding of human nature, empathy, and the flexibility to see issues from others' perspectives.
MyVoice, a mobile app and server system, introduces location-aware vocabulary that suggests useful words and phrases based on a user's location. The device is dramatically more affordable than traditional speaking aids, with a $30-monthly subscription cost.
A recent study by the University of Edinburgh has shed light on how older people experience memory loss, revealing a stress hormone receptor's role in this process. The research found that high levels of cortisol, a stress hormone, activate brain processes contributing to memory impairment.
Researchers found that higher levels of HIV-1 in genital secretions are associated with a greater risk of transmission between opposite-sex couples, independent of blood levels. The study's findings offer insight into the biology of infection spread and suggest new strategies for prevention.
Scientists have discovered that a gene regulating neuronal cell migration also plays a crucial role in liver organogenesis. The navigation gene nav3a optimizes cytoskeletal modulation, guiding cells to form the liver. Dysregulated expression of nav3a may be involved in human liver diseases.
Scientists discover chimpanzees yawn more when watching familiar chimps than strangers, suggesting an underlying mechanism for empathy. The findings support the idea that contagious yawning is a measure of empathy and may be influenced by social biases.
Researchers developed small-molecule MDM2 inhibitors that activate p53 protein, killing cancer cells while avoiding DNA damage. These new drugs shrank tumors in animal models of human cancer without significant side effects.
A study in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine found that US women were confused by recent mammography screening recommendations, with 30% more confused than helped. The majority of media coverage was unsupportive, and women aged 40-49 years were most likely to be confused.
Researchers at North Carolina State University used a genetic model of dogs to identify genes involved in human non-Hodgkin lymphoma. The study found that only a few genes were shared between dogs and humans, suggesting that the genetic changes associated with the cancer are much less complex in canines.
A University of Missouri study found that teaching refusal skills can help minority youths resist tobacco use, particularly those from American Indian or Alaska Native (AI/AN) communities. These skills are crucial in countering the high rates of smoking among AI/AN youths, who have a greater lifetime smoking rate than other racial groups.
Research reveals high concentrations of carcinogenic PCBs in West Africa's coastal regions, with possible sources including illegal waste dumping and ship graveyard pollution. The study collected air samples from ships and land-based stations, pointing to the large ships' graveyard in Mauritania as a significant source of contamination.
Takeo Kanade has been honored with the ACM/AAAI Allen Newell Award for his career contributions to computer vision and robotics. He is being recognized for bridging computer science and other disciplines through his groundbreaking work, including the development of face recognition systems and robotic technologies.
A study found that health journalists who regularly read medical journals are more open to covering stories based on corporate press releases, while those covering strokes tend to have negative views. Deadline pressure also plays a role in shaping journalists' attitudes toward press releases.
A large study of over 107,000 people in Denmark found that certain insulin secretagogues (ISs) were associated with a higher risk of death from any cause and heart attacks compared to metformin. Metformin was found to be the most effective treatment for preventing cardiovascular diseases.
Researchers at Fox Chase Cancer Center found that naproxen and its derivative NO-naproxen reduce tumor formation in mutant mice. The data also suggests that naproxen blocks a key step in colon cancer formation, which could lead to the development of new chemopreventive agents.
A recent study suggests that breast cancer patients experiencing persistent fatigue may have an imbalance in their autonomic nervous system, leading to accelerated aging. Researchers found that fatigued patients showed higher levels of stress hormones and lower parasympathetic activity compared to non-fatigued patients.
A Phase III study found that GOLFIG increased progression-free survival to 16.5 months, compared to 7.5 months with FOLFOX regimen. Researchers added gemcitabine and granulocyte-macrophage colony stimulating factor to boost immune system.
A UK policy aims to assess drug value using factors beyond clinical and cost effectiveness, including therapeutic innovation and societal benefits. The proposed 'value-based pricing' policy could change the way drugs are offered through Britain's National Health Service.
The Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center will lead the Cancer Immunotherapy Trials Network (CITN), a multicenter research network on promising new agents that boost patients' immune systems. The CITN aims to develop treatments for cancer by selecting, designing and conducting early-phase trials using priority agents.
A University of Guelph study found that male birds that stay behind gain better breeding sites and are more attractive to females, leading to increased mating success. In contrast, migrating birds are often in poorer condition and less likely to survive the heavy rains.
CMAJ states that Canada's federal election should prioritize quality health care delivery over sustainability. The six aspects of high-quality care include safety, effectiveness, patient-centred care, timeliness, efficiency, and equity. A national electronic health record system is vital to ensuring quality care.
Researchers at Caltech propose that an entirely different mechanism is at play in Tibet, with a strong lower crust originating from India. This new understanding of the processes shaping the Himalaya Mountains and Tibet improves our knowledge of tectonic activity and earthquakes in the region.
Researchers emphasize the need for legislation to regulate online behavioral advertising, as third-parties collect and share consumer data without transparency. This raises concerns about consumer privacy and data protection in e-commerce.
A new study verifies that biodiversity helps remove excess levels of nutrients from streams, degrading water quality. The study reveals how biodiversity increases the removal of pollutants through a process called niche partitioning, where each species occupies a unique habitat and removes specific forms of pollution.
Guzdial and Ericson's Georgia Computes! program enhances computing instruction in primary and secondary schools, increasing participation among women and under-represented minority groups. The program has led to significant increases in Advanced Placement Computer Science courses and students from these groups
A NIH study found that progesterone reduced the rate of preterm birth before 33 weeks of pregnancy among women with a short cervix. Infants born to these women were also less likely to develop respiratory distress syndrome.
Lawrence Livermore researchers have developed a nanosensor that relies on semiconductor nanowires to detect various molecules quickly and selectively responds to different types of solvent molecules. The device is simple, highly sensitive and could be the first step in making an easily deployable chemical sensor for the battlefield.
Researchers used X-ray CT scanners to analyze rice plant traits, improving measurement accuracy and reducing costs. This technology aids in selecting plants with the best tillers, crucial for crop success.
Researchers found that fish oil increases expression of genes related to cellular specialization, differentiation, and immune defenses against tumors. However, it also triggers counterproductive immune responses like inflammation and allergic reactions.
Researchers developed a chemical cocktail to convert mouse muscle fibers into cells that form the first stages of regenerating limbs. The methods have implications for regenerative medicine and stem cell biology, potentially speeding wound healing and creating new tissues.
Researchers discovered germanium undergoes structural changes to become metallic under high pressure, exhibiting superconductivity caused by phonons. The findings matched theoretical predictions, confirming the element's potential applications in electronics and materials science.
A new journal, Therapeutic Hypothermia and Temperature Management, explores the use of therapeutic hypothermia to improve survival rates after out-of-hospital cardiac arrest. The therapy has been shown to reduce brain injury risk in approximately 400,000 people who suffer from cardiac arrest annually.
Researchers have discovered two genes linked to caffeine consumption, revealing a genetic basis for individual differences in caffeine intake. The study found that individuals with specific genetic variants consumed significantly more or less caffeine than others, highlighting the importance of genetic factors in shaping daily habits.
A recent review article highlights the urgent need for protocols to deal with disaster-related health effects. The study reports on the toxicologic consequences of exposures in the Gulf Oil Spill and notes the complexity of assessing full effects due to multiple sources and underlying disease burdens.
A Cardiff University-led team discovered antibiotic-resistant bacteria carrying the NDM-1 gene in New Delhi's drinking water supply, including strains that cause cholera and dysentery. The findings highlight the need for urgent action to tackle the spread of resistant bacteria worldwide.
Astronomers have discovered a binary system consisting of two white dwarfs orbiting each other every 39 minutes. The stars are expected to collide and merge in 37 million years, resulting in the formation of a single star. This discovery marks the first time such an event has been observed.