A new study published in Annals of Emergency Medicine found that Massachusetts' health care reform law increased overall emergency department visits by 4.1% between 2006 and 2008, but reduced low-severity visits for the uninsured and Medicaid recipients. The authors suggest that limitations on primary care access and low co-payments ma...
The study found that technology centers and universities have different types of clients among the business sector, with universities collaborating with larger firms and technology institutes working with smaller companies. The research also highlights the importance of complementary relationships between these institutions to foster i...
A new near-infrared fluorescence agent has been developed to detect deep vein thrombosis, a potentially deadly cardiovascular disease. The agent uses a biomarker that targets fibrin, a protein involved in blood clot formation, and has shown high-resolution imaging capabilities in phase II clinical trials.
A CWRU researcher studied the effectiveness of the In Our Own Voice program in reducing mental illness stigma and improving mental health literacy among teens. The study found that girls who participated in the program showed improved knowledge of mental illness, but more interaction with presenters was needed to reduce stigma.
Researchers at Yale University found that skin wrinkles and quality can reflect bone mineral density in early menopausal women. The severity of wrinkles was related to lower bone density, while higher skin rigidity was associated with better bone health.
The new nanoparticles can carry hundreds of light-sensitive molecules, creating more reactive oxygen species from the same amount of light. This design allows the nanoparticles to penetrate easily into tumors and deliver targeted damage to cancer cells.
A recent study comparing yo-yo dieting to lifelong obesity found that weight fluctuations are better for health than remaining obese. Mice on a yo-yo diet regimen lived nearly 35% longer and had improved health measures compared to those on a high-fat diet.
Researchers found that women with low bone density are seven times more likely to benefit from bisphosphonate drugs when their vitamin D levels are above the recommended threshold. Maintaining adequate vitamin D levels is crucial for optimizing osteoporosis treatment, particularly in postmenopausal women.
A lower dose of zoledronic acid has been found to increase bone density and decrease bone resorption, potentially reducing the risk of osteoporotic fractures. The study suggests that a one-fifth or one-half of the recommended dose may be sufficient for this effect.
A University of Missouri study finds that BPA accumulates rapidly in the body when consumed daily, rather than through single exposure. Researchers compared steady dietary BPA exposure to traditional lab methods, revealing a greater increase in active BPA form in mice.
A prospective study found that smoking significantly increases a woman's risk for peripheral artery disease (PAD), which can cause pain and discomfort. The study also suggests that smoking cessation reduces the risk, but even after 20 years of abstention, the risk remains elevated.
A study suggests a strong link between childhood bullying and adult intimate partner violence perpetration. Men who bullied peers in childhood are more likely to perpetrate violence against an intimate partner in adulthood. The study found that frequent bullies had 3.82 times the odds of perpetrating past-year IPV.
A recent study found that the nutritional supplement ArginMax for Women significantly improved overall quality of life for female cancer survivors. The supplement showed improvements in physical well-being, functional well-being, and reduced symptoms such as lack of energy, pain, and sleeplessness.
A study found that non-gated PET imaging with 4D computed tomography can produce more accurate tumor imaging for patients with irregular breathing. This approach may improve overall accuracy of tumor detection and inform clinicians about appropriate treatments.
A new climate study by Stanford University scientists predicts that tropical regions will experience permanent summer heat increases, with many areas seeing unprecedented extreme temperatures. This could lead to severe consequences for human health, agriculture, and ecosystems.
A study on Miscanthus species reveals their potential as high-yield energy crops capable of growing on marginal land. The authors found that wild populations have genetic variation and adaptation that could provide valuable resources for the development of bioenergy crops.
Scientists from NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center have produced groundbreaking global maps of land plant fluorescence, providing a more direct window into the inner workings of photosynthesis. The maps show sharp contrasts in plant fluorescence between seasons and demonstrate the feasibility of measuring fluorescence from space.
Researchers will study the effects of carbon tetrachloride and dichloroethylene on engineered liver tissue. The goal is to understand cell-and organ-wide effects of toxic substance mixtures, a crucial step in preventing chronic health problems.
A new study found a significant correlation between high BMI and decreased aromatase availability in the brains of overweight subjects. This suggests that low estrogen levels may lead to reduced control over appetite and food intake, resulting in weight gain.
A study found that gamma imaging outperformed ultrasound in detecting breast cancer, especially in women with dense breast tissue. Gamma imaging provided 100% sensitivity and 82% specificity, leading to a better prognosis for breast cancer patients.
A new molecular imaging agent has been developed to detect tumor angiogenesis, a process of rapid blood vessel growth associated with malignant cancers. The agent, which targets the CD105 protein biomarker, shows promising results in early studies, including high uptake by tumors in mice.
A new study by Ohio State University shows that relaxing video games can make people happier and more kind, while violent games lead to increased aggression. Players who played relaxing games chose to give their opponents more money and participated in pro-social behaviors.
Researchers combined two molecular imaging agents to create a powerful new tool for acquiring information about the extent of a patient's cancer. The results showed that combined 18F NaF and 18F FDG PET/CT imaging provided good-quality imaging of both skeletal and extra-skeletal malignant lesions from various cancers.
Researchers found that Tai Chi improves cognitive functioning and psychological health in women who have undergone chemotherapy. The study suggests that Tai Chi could be a valuable addition to cancer treatment for mitigating cognitive decline.
A new study published in Environmental Research Letters found that virtual water transfers are unlikely to equalize water use among nations due to existing inequalities. The researchers concluded that the current amount of virtual water is insufficient to overcome these constraints.
Researchers developed a new alpha-emitter-based therapy that effectively targets and cures neuroendocrine tumors without harming healthy tissues. The treatment, called 213Bi-DOTATOC peptide receptor alpha-therapy, showed promising results in patients with liver metastases resistant to beta-particle peptide therapy.
Researchers from NYU Cancer Institute presented studies on the association between MC1R variants, ultraviolet light exposure, and melanoma risk. They also identified serum-based microRNAs as biomarkers for melanoma recurrence. These findings suggest that naturally occurring genetic variations in MC1R may increase an individual's predis...
The CoGeNT experiment has detected a seasonal signal variation in its data, consistent with the predictions of Weakly Interacting Massive Particles (WIMPs). The team is cautious, as the signal could be due to random fluctuations or experimental errors.
A comprehensive global study found that neuropsychiatric disorders, such as depression and schizophrenia, account for 45% of the disease burden among young people aged 10-24 years. The study highlights the need to focus on prevention programs and health promotion against non-communicable and non-fatal causes of disease in adolescence.
A new study published in Psychological Science found that attention and awareness are distinct mental states. The researchers used the phenomenon of visual pop-out to demonstrate that people can pay attention to a stimulus without being aware of it, especially when distracted.
The right ventricle's size and pumping ability vary by age, gender, and ethnicity, with older adults having smaller but stronger hearts. The study found that men have larger right ventricles than women, while African-Americans have smaller ones compared to Caucasians.
Researchers have discovered that compaction bands in sandstone are more permeable than previously believed, which could significantly improve the development of hydraulic fracturing and CO2 sequestration technologies. This finding was made possible by advanced imaging techniques and multiscale computational models.
A study of 191 diabetic patients found that dual isotope SPECT/CT accurately diagnosed osteomyelitis and soft tissue infections, leading to conservative treatment planning and limb salvage in 72% of cases. This imaging method has the potential to reduce unnecessary amputations and improve patient outcomes.
Researchers found that maintaining vitamin D levels above 33 ng/ml significantly improves outcomes in patients taking bisphosphonates for osteoporosis and low bone mineral density. The study supports optimizing vitamin D levels to improve treatment effectiveness.
A new study by Nancy Keating found that VHA care is at least as good as, and in some cases better than, Medicare-funded private sector care for men 65 years and older. The VHA's coordinated care approach, salaried doctors, and lack of financial incentives for overuse may contribute to its high quality.
Researchers developed a molecular imaging technique that can detect reduced blood flow in diabetic hearts, potentially saving lives. The study found that this method is safe and beneficial for predicting cardiac events in diabetic patients suspected of having ischemic heart disease.
Researchers found that PET/CT imaging with the radiotracer 18F-FDG successfully detected 84% of benign and malignant tumors in patients with adnexal masses. This technology helps predict cancer stage and provide better treatment options for women diagnosed with ovarian cancer.
A new imaging agent called 18F FPPRGD2 targets breast tumor development by detecting angiogenesis, a process that forms new blood vessels in tissues. This allows for better clinical decisions and earlier identification of patients who are ideal candidates for aggressive therapies.
A new study published by The Endocrine Society reveals that women with higher levels of the hormone leptin experience fewer symptoms of depression. This finding suggests that leptin may have antidepressant qualities and is independent of body mass index (BMI).
A team of scientists led by Professor Gregory Jerkiewicz discovered that platinum develops a water-repelling layer when used in hydrogen reactions, enabling fast and efficient energy release. This breakthrough could lead to cheaper synthetic alternatives for sustainable devices.
A recent study found that oncologists value life-prolonging treatments more than quality-enhancing ones when making chemotherapy decisions. The authors also noted that there is a lack of standardized methods for analyzing cost-effectiveness in healthcare. This disparity is particularly notable in the United States, where there are no g...
Researchers found that Bim is required for anti-cancer therapies targeting tumor blood vessels to be effective. The discovery could lead to new treatments by attacking both the tumor and its blood supply.
Researchers at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute have created a closed-loop artificial pancreas that can automatically monitor blood sugar levels and administer insulin to individuals with Type 1 diabetes. The device aims to reduce the guesswork involved in daily insulin management, which is crucial for maintaining stable glucose levels.
Researchers have found that people with HIV can be safely treated with cancer therapies without adverse interactions. The study, conducted by the AIDS Malignancy Consortium, explores potential interactions between highly active anti-retroviral therapy (HAART) and newer targeted cancer drugs.
Researchers have uncovered the molecular mechanism of a biological sensor known as the gating ring, which regulates bodily activities such as blood pressure and insulin secretion. The findings could lead to therapies against diseases like hypertension and genetic epilepsy.
A new poll finds that most Massachusetts residents support the state's landmark health reform law, with 63% in favor and only 9% opposing it. The majority of residents also believe the law has been successful in providing health coverage to nearly all state residents.
A low-pressure system in the Eastern Pacific is organizing and showing strong convection, indicating a good chance of development. The National Hurricane Center predicts a 90% chance of formation over the next two days.
A study published at SNM's 58th Annual Meeting found that molecular imaging, specifically FDG-PET scans, can effectively diagnose the cause of fever of unknown origin. The research suggests that FDG-PET may improve patients' prognosis and cut healthcare costs by providing a non-invasive diagnostic tool.
A new study suggests that daily testosterone therapy can improve verbal learning and memory in postmenopausal women, reducing their risk of cognitive decline. The research found significant benefits after six months of treatment.
Research in mice reveals a link between pregnancy and tumor dissemination, with decreased NK cell activity and myeloid-derived suppressor cells contributing to metastasis. The study suggests that these immune cells may represent a shared mechanism of immune suppression during pregnancy and tumor growth.
A national study found that optimally implementing key guideline-recommended therapies for all eligible heart failure patients could prevent up to 67,996 deaths annually. The study highlights the potential health benefits of more consistent use of evidence-based treatments.
A new report by US and European researchers found that world forests are becoming larger carbon sinks due to increased density, with no significant expansion of forest area. This increase in density helped maintain regional carbon levels despite deforestation, offering a way to mitigate carbon emissions through managed forestry.
A new study argues that female suicide bombing is a military tactic used by terrorist groups to justify acts that deviate from mainstream Islam. The study's findings suggest that the use of female suicide bombers is not based on Islamic doctrine, but rather on strategic and military utility.
According to a survey of 200 migraine specialists attending the American Headache Society meeting, increasing public funds for research is considered most promising. The majority believe new therapies will evolve from more investment in the field, while others see public awareness and education as crucial.
Researchers found that domain expertise insulates experts from biases caused by monetary favors, using functional MRI scans. Non-experts, however, are more susceptible to such biases, which can affect their judgments in various areas, including politics and medicine.
Researchers have discovered a new protein, neuritin, that helps nerve fibers navigate towards muscles in zebrafish models of SMA. Artificially stimulating neuritin production improves axon branching and connection formation, leading to potential drug therapy options.
Researchers at Duke University have identified a brain function that governs the decision to stay or go in search of food, a fundamental problem in evolutionary history. The dorsal anterior cingulate cortex steadily increases its activity during foraging decisions until a threshold level is reached, prompting the individual to move on.
Researchers have successfully used oatmeal products radiolabeled with a medical isotope to image stomach emptying in molecular imaging studies. The study demonstrated that prior boiling and labeling of oatmeal improves radiolabeling efficiency, making it an effective alternative to egg meal for patients with dietary restrictions.
Researchers found that new neurons in adult monkeys take more than six months to mature, which challenges the notion that this process is related to the effectiveness of antidepressant medications. This finding suggests that the human brain may experience even longer maturation periods due to its larger size.
Researchers are advancing positron emission tomography (PET) as an effective method of early detection for Alzheimer's disease. Studies show that amyloid plaques build up slowly and are often present in healthy older individuals, with significant buildup linked to quicker memory decline and brain atrophy.