Researchers at Caltech have created a tunable acoustic diode that allows acoustic information to travel only in one direction, controllable by frequency. This technology brings soundproofing closer to reality, with potential applications in biomedical ultrasound devices and energy-harvesting systems.
A study found no association between occult metastases in lymph nodes and overall survival among women with early-stage breast cancer. Researchers detected micro-metastases using immunohistochemical staining but did not find significant impact on death or recurrence rates.
Cedars-Sinai's COACH for Kids program will receive a $300,000 grant to expand its oral health services in 14 Los Angeles elementary schools. The program will conduct oral health screenings, education, and apply fluoride varnish to address the most common unmet need among children.
High-dose vitamin D significantly reduces musculoskeletal pain and improves quality of life for breast cancer patients on aromatase inhibitors. The study found that high-dose vitamin D may also help maintain bone density, providing a potential tool to enhance treatment tolerability.
The Harvard School of Public Health is testing a WHO Safe Childbirth Checklist program in 120 hospitals in India to reduce deaths and improve outcomes for mothers and infants. The four-year study aims to evaluate the impact of the checklist program on maternal and infant mortality rates.
A new automated DNA test for tuberculosis can significantly increase detection rates, especially in HIV-positive patients. However, economic challenges and implications of the diagnostic tests need exploration.
A study by Roberto G. Gonzales finds that college-educated undocumented young adults in the US face the same labor jobs as their parents, including construction and service work. This highlights the need for a more diverse approach to immigration policy and better support systems for these individuals.
The Guy Harvey Ocean Foundation has awarded a research grant to Dr. Neil Hammerschlag's RJ Dunlap Marine Conservation Program at the University of Miami to investigate the impact of declining marine apex predator populations on the ocean ecosystem.
A non-drug approach to enhance students' ability to learn, a new study found improved brain functioning and decreased symptoms of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in students practicing Transcendental Meditation. The study also revealed increased brain processing and improved language-based skills among ADHD students.
A study by Johns Hopkins physicians found that stents can prevent brain aneurysms from recurring after minimally invasive coiling procedures. The research suggests that stenting can make coiling a more promising option for the 30,000 people diagnosed with brain aneurysms each year in the US.
Men are less susceptible to inflammatory diseases due to higher testosterone levels, which suppress phospholipase D and reduce pro-inflammatory substance production. This knowledge can inform new therapies for inflammatory diseases, requiring 'customized' treatments for men and women.
A group of public health experts emphasizes the need for a comprehensive evaluation of the London Olympics' impact on public health. The event's legacy promises include urban regeneration, increased physical activity, and improved wellbeing. If achieved, these initiatives could have substantial health benefits.
Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine has received a $2.1 million grant from the National Center for Research Resources to develop additional basic research models for cystic fibrosis (CF). The researchers aim to understand the cellular and molecular mechanisms causing CF and explore potential therapeutic approaches.
A University at Buffalo psychiatrist is developing a standardized vocabulary for chronic pain to improve its assessment. By studying thousands of patients from around the world, he aims to create a uniform way of describing pain using ontology, which draws on philosophy and computational approaches.
Cancer researcher Peter Duesberg suggests that cancer is a form of speciation, where tumors are new species that operate independently and can grow without host control. This theory could lead to new insights into cancer growth and metastasis, as well as new approaches to therapy.
A study by Baylor University found that children with ADHD treated in psychiatric clinics have significantly worse health-related quality of life and family functioning than those treated by general pediatricians. The study highlights the importance of evaluating both children's and parents' perspectives on quality of life.
A new measurement of the Hubble constant has been made, providing an accurate calculation of how fast the universe is expanding. The method uses data from a survey of over 125,000 galaxies, allowing for precise determination of the universe's growth rate.
Researchers found that pediatric liver-transplant patients required a second vaccination to defend against the pandemic virus, as a single-dose H1N1 vaccine did not provide adequate protection. A study published in Liver Transplantation revealed that increasing time since transplant correlated with successful immune response.
Researchers at Ohio State University designed a nanocarrier that maximizes gene silencing by targeting equivalent highways for entry into cells. The carrier, called SPANosome, reduces protein production by 95% compared to traditional carriers.
Tropical Depression 11W exhibits a significant temperature contrast between its cold cloud tops (-63°F) and warm sea surface (80°F), with a difference of 143 degrees. The storm is expected to intensify into a typhoon and recurve to the northeast, posing threats to Yap State (Micronesia).
A new study suggests that reforestation on abandoned agricultural land can have a significant cooling effect on the climate. By considering historical patterns of land-use conversion, researchers found that farmers generally chose to use more productive and snow-free lands, which can absorb more carbon dioxide and reduce global warming.
Scientists have developed a novel protein called HER2-Affitoxin that targets HER2-positive cancer cells without interfering with the signaling pathway. The protein has shown promising results in killing tumor cells and is warranting clinical trials.
A randomized double-blind placebo-controlled trial found that adrenaline increased the likelihood of restoring circulation following cardiac arrest, but no difference was seen in survival to hospital discharge. The study provides the best evidence to date supporting the use of adrenaline in treating cardiac arrest.
A study published in PLOS Biology found that a defect in brain glucose sensing contributes to obesity, while correction of this defect can treat the condition. The researchers discovered a novel role for hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF) in hypothalamic glucose sensing and whole-body energy balance regulation.
The Penn team successfully grafted olfactory receptors onto carbon nanotubes, enabling the conversion of chemical signals into electrical signals. This technology has potential applications in pharmaceutical research and could help develop new treatments for diseases by targeting specific GPCRs.
Researchers have developed a way to help growers reduce fumigant emissions by testing the permeability of dozens of films used to cover treated soil. They found that some films are better barriers to fumigant diffusion than others, but their effectiveness varies depending on the fumigant and weather conditions.
The UBC device allows scientists to analyze individual cells rapidly and cost-effectively, accelerating genetic research and cancer diagnosis. By analyzing isolated cells, researchers can distinguish between normal and cancer cells, leading to more accurate treatments.
A strong link between family history and COPD was found in a study of over 1,600 participants. Family history of COPD was identified as a significant risk factor for the disease, even when other factors such as smoking exposure were accounted for.
A study has found that patients with mild traumatic brain injury exhibit abnormal functional connectivity in the thalamus, a key relay station for brain information. The disruption of this connectivity may contribute to various post-traumatic symptoms, including depression and anxiety.
The article highlights the connection between neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) and HIV/AIDS, proposing ways to integrate NTD treatment programs with HIV/AIDS initiatives. Studies show that areas with high NTD infection rates also have high HIV/AIDS prevalence, and co-infections can exacerbate HIV/AIDS.
A new study published in Journal of the American Medical Association found that removing lymph nodes due to microscopic cancer cells has no impact on survival outcomes for women with early-stage breast cancer. The study, conducted by Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, challenged the common approach to treating early-stage breast cancer.
The RAND book examines America's response to terrorism since 9/11, outlining successes like al Qaeda's degradation and improved intelligence systems. However, it also critiques mistakes such as the US involvement in Iraq and detainee abuse at Abu Ghraib prison.
A systematic review found that nurse-led relaxation classes, birth preparation classes, and clinician feedback can decrease caesarean sections in low-risk pregnancies. However, prenatal education, computer patient decision-aids, and insurance reform have not shown significant effects on reducing cesarean section rates.
Researchers have captured groundbreaking biomechanical data on cervical spine injuries in a healthy young athlete, providing real-world insights into the effects of head-down tackles. The study, published in the New England Journal of Medicine, has significant implications for youth sports safety and equipment standards.
A study published in Cancer Research found that PTEN helps remove DNA damage caused by UVB radiation, a risk factor for non-melanoma skin cancer. Increasing PTEN activity through supplements or pharmaceuticals may prevent skin cancer.
A new study projects that Yellowstone National Park will experience dramatic shifts in forest vegetation and fire patterns, with large fires occurring annually by 2050. The research suggests that a warming climate could lead to a fundamental change in the ecosystem, affecting wildlife, hydrology, carbon storage, and aesthetics.
Researchers identified the NBEAL2 gene responsible for Gray Platelet Syndrome, a rare blood disorder characterized by gray platelets. The discovery enables early diagnosis with a DNA test, improving patient care and treatment options.
The global bioterrorism threat is a growing concern for the world animal health office, with evidence of biological agent development in some countries. The article discusses potential perpetrators, priority diseases, modern biology, trade and regulatory restraints to prevent such threats.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins University found that two structurally similar neurons have distinct roles, influencing brain regions and visual functions. This discovery has significant implications for diagnosing sleep disorders, as pupillary light reflex may not be an accurate indicator of sleep-wake cycles.
A new study reveals that states considering in-state tuition for undocumented immigrants are more likely to have a large foreign-born population and higher relative unemployment. States with female legislators who favor civil liberties policies also tend to consider tuition bills.
A Temple University study found that teenage girls significantly influence their mothers' purchasing decisions, particularly for personal items like makeup and clothing. The 'doppelganger effect' suggests mothers tend to mimic their daughters' consumption behavior rather than vice versa.
Scientists at the University of Strathclyde devise a new system to compare whisky samples, distinguishing between authentic and counterfeit brands with high accuracy. The method uses mid-infrared spectrometry and has been successfully tested in blind tests.
The Canadian Collaboration for Immigrant and Refugee Health has developed a new resource for primary care physicians to address the complex health needs of immigrants and refugees. The guidelines cover four areas: infectious diseases, mental health, chronic and noncommunicable diseases, and women's health.
Researchers found that Pacific Northwest conifers face significant water stress during winter due to freeze-thaw cycles, which disrupts water flow. This challenges the conventional view of summer as the most stressful season for these trees.
A clinical trial led by Newcastle University found that the drug idebenone improved vision and perception of color in patients with LHON, a condition causing inherited blindness. In nine out of 36 patients taking idebenone, vision improved to the point where they could read at least one row of letters on a chart.
Researchers used optogenetics to fragment sleep in mice, finding that minimal uninterrupted sleep is crucial for memory consolidation. The study suggests that compromised sleep continuity, such as in sleep disorders like apnea, may contribute to memory impairments.
A study by Penn State found that adding pureed vegetables to children's favorite foods increased their daily vegetable intake and reduced calorie consumption. Researchers served vegetable-enhanced meals to 39 preschoolers aged 3-6, who ate nearly twice as many veggies and 11% fewer calories.
A growing trend among college-aged couples, stayover relationships involve spending three or more nights together while maintaining personal control. Research found that these relationships are content but not necessarily planning to get married or move in together.
Researchers have developed piezoelectric resistive switching devices that use zinc oxide nanowires to control memory cells through electromechanical modulation. The devices can detect electronic signals from mechanical actions in the biological world, enabling a new way to interface biology and electronics.
A recent review article highlights the positive effects of exercise on brain health and cognition, with aerobic exercise improving cognitive abilities in children and elderly adults. Strength training also shows promise, particularly for executive functions and memory.
Diabetes rates are higher in Aboriginal adults in Alberta, but the increase is less pronounced compared to the general population. Mortality rates for status Aboriginals with and without diabetes have remained relatively unchanged over 12 years, despite overall improvements in mortality rates among people with diabetes.
An international team of scientists assesses the population status of several fish species, classifying seven as threatened with extinction and four as 'near threatened' for the IUCN Red List. The study highlights the need to protect against overexploitation driven by high prices, which are putting pressure on global fish populations.
A new study suggests that adopting the World Health Organization's treatment initiation criteria for HIV-infected individuals would significantly reduce the country's HIV incidence, extend life-years, and ultimately save money. By starting ART earlier, South Africa could prevent more than 120,000 additional life-years by 2040.
A new gene, Eibi1, has been discovered that plays a crucial role in the evolution of life on Earth. The gene contributes to the production of cutin, a component of plant cuticles that reduces water loss and prevents dehydration.
A new UCLA study suggests that warfare likely shaped the development of civilization in the Titicaca basin of southern Peru. The researchers found evidence of massive fires, iconographic signs of conflict and agricultural decline after a devastating fire in Taraco state, indicating war may have led to the downfall of this early settlem...
Researchers have identified a new hormonal pathway driving advanced prostate cancer, which can be targeted by drugs. This discovery will help develop accurate biomarkers and improve treatment outcomes for resistant tumors.
An analysis of patient safety incident data reveals that the NHS is poorly equipped to handle obese patients, with common themes including inadequate staffing, specially adapted equipment, and surgical errors. Most incidents resulted in little or no harm, but severe cases were reported.
The new clinical guidelines for managing thyroid disease in pregnancy focus on diagnosing and treating subclinical hypothyroidism, overt hypothyroidism, and postpartum thyroiditis. They aim to improve patient care and drive future research.
Children who are excluded from discussions about their hospital care often feel scared and angry that no-one is listening to them or telling them what is going on. The study found that many children rely on their parents as advocates and face barriers such as rushed consultations and unintelligible language, hindering their participation.
A new study reveals that roads in North Dakota contain high levels of the cancer-causing mineral erionite, which can increase the risk of developing mesothelioma. The research team found that airborne concentrations of erionite in North Dakota were comparable to those found in Turkish villages with high mesothelioma rates.