The Great Dismal Swamp was once a human refuge for Indigenous Americans, runaway slaves, and others. Researchers have uncovered evidence of maroon communities that thrived there from the 1600s to 1860, highlighting the swamp's role as a sanctuary since 1800.
Researchers at Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center found a specific mutation in the FLT3 receptor makes cells resistant to standard chemotherapy treatment for acute myeloid leukemia (AML). The study suggests a need for personalized approaches in treatment and may lead to new therapeutic research.
Researchers at Whitehead Institute found that depriving human melanoma cells of the essential amino acid leucine can lead to their death. Leucine deprivation triggers apoptosis in melanoma cells, providing a potential framework for targeted therapy. The study suggests that inhibiting autophagy with chloroquine may enhance this effect.
A new Q-PCR assay technique enables precise quantification of fungal DNA in soybean leaf tissue to assess resistance to soybean rust. This method improves upon traditional visual assessments, allowing for more accurate mapping of quantitative resistance genes.
Researchers from top institutions receive awards for their work on ligand-binding assays, biotechnology innovations, and cancer treatment delivery. The American Association of Pharmaceutical Scientists recognizes excellence in these areas.
A national survey of 1,621 parents found that concerns about vaccine side effects and respiratory infections are major factors preventing vaccination for children with asthma. The study suggests that physicians can play a key role in addressing these concerns and promoting vaccination.
A study published in Archives of Surgery found that obese patients are at a significantly higher risk of developing surgical site infections after colectomy. The study also showed that these infections result in increased costs, lengthier hospital stays, and a higher rate of hospital readmissions. As pay-for-performance models penalize...
A study by Henrik Hagtvedt found that incomplete typeface logos can create interest and spark innovation perception, but also lead to unclear communication and untrustworthiness. The results suggest that firms should avoid such logos when trust is critical, but may be effective for promotion-focused consumers.
The new technique enables 3D mapping of crystal structures inside nanomaterials with nanometer resolution, allowing for the study of their special properties and behavior under different conditions. This has significant implications for understanding and optimizing material properties in various applications.
A telemedicine intervention in ICUs was associated with lower hospital and ICU mortality, lower rates of preventable complications, and shorter hospital and ICU lengths of stay. The study found that the tele-ICU team improved best clinical practice adherence for critical care procedures, leading to better patient outcomes.
A new study using brain scans reveals that simple line drawings can activate similar patterns of brain activity as color photographs when viewing natural scenes. This suggests that the brain uses abstract representations to categorize scenes and doesn't need features like texture and color to tell a beach from a street scene.
Research suggests that linezolid is a more effective treatment than vancomycin for ventilator-associated pneumonia caused by MRSA. Linezolid showed higher clinical and microbiologic success rates, with cure rates being higher at the end of treatment.
A new decision aid aims to improve communication between families and clinicians about end-of-life care for patients with prolonged mechanical ventilation. The study found that the decision aid reduced uncertainty and improved agreement between surrogates and healthcare providers about patient outcomes.
The grant will help provide funding for the hospital's La Van program, which provides free transportation for low-income patients coming to routine prenatal appointments. This supports efforts to connect those in need of services to providers who participate in accountable community health care programs.
A study of 508 children found a strong association between childhood excessive daytime sleepiness (EDS) and obesity, asthma, anxiety, and depression. Waist circumference was also significantly associated with EDS, suggesting metabolic factors play a role.
A new study by Stanford researchers found that most seaports lack a plan to adapt to climate change, threatening their infrastructure. Rising sea levels and frequent violent storms will take a significant toll on ports worldwide.
Researchers found potential tools for controlling cytokine storm in children with juvenile arthritis and autoimmune diseases. The study identified two important molecules that control the severity of macrophage activation syndrome (MAS), a life-threatening condition.
Researchers at Schepens Eye Research Institute successfully regenerate large areas of damaged retinas and improve visual function using IPS cells derived from skin. The study holds promise for future treatments and cures for diseases such as age-related macular degeneration and retinitis pigmentosa.
Researchers found that increased host antioxidant defense enzyme activity reduced asthma risk, while high levels of a specific enzyme decreased the risk. The study suggests regulating the body's antioxidant defense system may play an important role in preventing asthma.
Researchers investigated snake venom's surface tension and viscosity, discovering that these properties facilitate the venom's entry into wounds. The team found that snakes developed optimal fang groove geometry and a special property of their venom to allow for efficient delivery of deadly poison.
Researchers discover that celecoxib triggers liver cancer cell death by inhibiting a key protein, and combining it with chemotherapy drugs boosts effectiveness. The study suggests the possibility of a new treatment approach for liver cancer, which has a low five-year survival rate.
Researchers at Duke-NUS Graduate Medical School have identified a new cell type that can sense and respond to the dengue virus, which is transmitted through mosquito bites. The discovery opens up new avenues for developing vaccines and treatments for the disease, which currently lacks effective therapies.
Researchers at VCU Massey Cancer Center have found a new biomarker related to the immune system that can predict breast cancer recurrence. The five-gene signature shows over 85% accuracy in predicting relapse-free survival.
A new study found that bacterial infection alone is not a reliable indicator of poor lung function in adolescents with cystic fibrosis. Instead, early childhood factors such as body mass index and nutritional status appear to play a significant role in determining lung function later in life.
A study of 1,078 doctors found that younger doctors prescribed more cardiovascular drugs but did not significantly improve patients' major CV risk factors. Older doctors were more likely to recommend lifestyle changes and provide accurate clinical data.
Planarian flatworms can regenerate their entire body from a small piece of tissue due to the critical role of an ancient gene called notum. Notum determines whether a head or tail will regrow at amputation sites, enabling the worms to restore missing body parts.
A recent mumps outbreak in Ontario, Canada highlights the importance of two doses of mumps vaccine to prevent outbreaks. Researchers found that people born between 1985 and 1991 are more susceptible to mumps, particularly among males in this age group.
Scientists have discovered that high levels of insulin-like growth factor I (IGF-I) are associated with better long-term recovery after a stroke. The study found that patients who exercised more actively, with physiotherapy and physical exercise, demonstrated better recovery after a stroke.
Researchers found improved hypertension control in Canada, with increased awareness and treatment rates among community-dwelling adults. Despite this progress, one-third of Canadians with hypertension still have uncontrolled blood pressure.
A study by Queensland University of Technology found that anxiety and depression are linked to risk-taking in young drivers, with women being more likely to exhibit this behavior. The research suggests that identifying young drivers at risk of psychological distress could help target them with specific road safety countermeasures.
A study of 122 Spanish university students found a clear association between binge drinking and poorer verbal declarative memory, even after controlling for other confounding variables. The research suggests that heavy episodic drinking may affect the brain's hippocampus, leading to impaired learning and memory abilities.
A human gene implicated in leukemia also acts to prevent cancer of the liver by producing an enzyme called Shp2, which protects hepatocytes from toxic damage. Conversely, this same enzyme is a known factor in the development of several types of leukemia.
Researchers have identified stem cell population that can reverse nerve cell loss in individuals with Parkinson disease. Protein-based human iPS cells efficiently generate functional dopamine neurons and treat a rat model of the disease.
Researchers analyzed patient data from over 44 million enrollees to find no link between ADHD medication use and increased risk of sudden death, heart attack, or stroke. The study suggests that ADHD drugs are safe from a cardiovascular perspective for children and adolescents.
Researchers found a composite index, Modified Early Warning Score (MEWS), to be a better predictor of cardiac arrest than individual vital signs. The study suggests that MEWS, which includes variables with poor predictive power, is still more accurate than single vital signs in identifying patients at risk of cardiac arrest.
Among patients referred by non-dermatologists, only one-fifth had a malignant primary lesion, while nearly half of all skin cancers discovered were not the referral lesion. Dermatologists found additional incidental malignant lesions, highlighting the importance of focused education on skin cancer detection.
Researchers describe a new species of land crab that documents the first crab extinction during the human era, likely caused by the arrival of humans to the Hawaiian Islands. The loss of the crab had a significant impact on the ecology of the islands.
A study from Johns Hopkins researchers found a link between a gene variation and infertility in women, with the altered gene affecting cholesterol regulation and pregnancy hormone production. The discovery may lead to a treatment for this condition, as a cholesterol medication shown to work in mice could potentially restore fertility.
A University of Oklahoma graduate student is testing materials to address fluorosis, a widespread health issue in the Rift Valley. The goal is to develop effective and sustainable solutions that meet the World Health Organization standard.
A study published in Alcoholism: Clinical & Experimental Research found that individuals with a family history of Type I alcoholism are more sensitive to alcohol's stimulating effects, which may lead to increased consumption and a higher risk of developing alcoholism. The researchers also discovered that these individuals experience im...
A recent clinical trial found that nasal steroid sprays do not significantly improve symptoms of eustachian tube dysfunction. The study enrolled patients with either otitis media with effusion or negative middle ear pressure and randomly assigned them to receive either a steroid spray or a placebo.
A miniature ventilation system with a simple nasal mask can help patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) become more active. Advanced COPD patients improved their distance walked by an average of 38 meters, comparable to full pulmonary rehabilitation programs.
A study found that earlier springs can enhance xylem growth in black spruce, but colder summers can negate this effect. The research suggests that the amplitude of summer warming temperatures plays a crucial role in wood production.
A new study identifies the ion channel TRPA1 as the molecular sensor responsible for detecting weak acids in animals. This detection mechanism can trigger cell death and is why animals avoid weak acids, which are found in substances like vinegar and fermented foods.
A recent study by Queen's University researchers reveals that the Arctic coastline is experiencing ecologically unprecedented impacts from global climate change. The team found that saltwater surges caused by rising sea levels have led to widespread die-off of coastal shrubs and dramatic changes in aquatic life.
A new study published in Neurology suggests that more than half of people diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease before age 60 are initially misdiagnosed due to atypical symptoms. Researchers found that 53% of those with no memory problems were incorrectly diagnosed, highlighting the need for biomarkers to improve diagnosis and treatment.
A recent meta-analysis of 40,000 critically ill patients found no statistically significant difference in hospital mortality between those who received ICU telemonitoring and those who did not. The study suggests that telemonitoring may not be an effective solution for addressing the shortage of intensivist physicians.
Researchers found that clot-busting drugs did not improve survival rates and may even worsen outcomes in patients with stable blood pressure. The study suggests thrombolytic agents should not be recommended for patients with normal blood pressure, highlighting the need for further research.
A new study found COPD patients exercising at 60-70% of their maximum during Wii Fit workouts, comparable to low-intensity calisthenics. The lower extremity exercises approximated 70-80% of the pair's maximum, while upper extremity exercises were around 50-60%.
Researchers developed CD4 aptamer-siRNA chimeras that inhibit HIV infection in primary cells and humanized mice. These agents protect against vaginal transmission of HIV when applied vaginally to humanized mice.
Researchers at Texas AgriLife Research have identified a key molecular mechanism regulating plant stem cell development, which could lead to increased fruit, seed, and leaf production. By understanding how microRNAs interact with RNA silencing proteins, scientists can engineer plants to produce more biomass.
A new experimental vaccine has shown promising results in protecting horses against the deadly Hendra virus, according to CSIRO scientists. The vaccine's successful development could help prevent the spread of the disease from flying foxes to horses and ultimately to people.
Researchers found that even those with low faecal haemoglobin concentrations are at increased risk of developing colorectal cancer. Higher initial faecal haemoglobin concentration is linked to a greater likelihood of developing the disease.
A study published in Archives of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery found that propranolol therapy improved the size and quality of head and neck hemangiomas in children. The medication was effective in reducing tumor size, flattening lesions, and changing their color, even in cases where previous treatments were unsuccessful.
Researchers found that zebrafish fin regeneration relies on multiple cell types, each retaining its original identity, rather than a single pluripotent stem cell. This discovery has implications for regenerative medicine in humans.
A study found that clinicians under-addressed all seven end-of-life topics with their patients, with four items rarely discussed and three sometimes addressed. The researchers hope the findings will inform the development of practical skills to improve clinician-patient communication about end-of-life care.
A Durham University-led study reveals that some less deprived coalfield areas are faring relatively well in terms of health, suggesting that regeneration efforts and resilience of local communities may be helpful. The research emphasizes the need for increased government assistance, particularly in poorer, predominantly rural coalfield...
Researchers found that the rate of hand contamination among graduating students is 100 times lower than health workers caring for patients with MRSA, likely due to a lower prevalence of MRSA in graduates. Handshakes may remove pathogens acquired earlier, providing reassurance to individuals who shake hands regularly.
Researchers found that inhaling small amounts of hydrogen reduces hyperoxic lung injury, inflammation and fluid buildup in the lungs. Hydrogen also induces activation of heme-oxygenase (HO-1), an enzyme that protects lung cells from damage.
A novel therapy that stimulates the nerve controlling diaphragm has been shown to improve breathing patterns, reduce blood oxygenation levels, and lower heart rate in patients with both heart failure and central sleep apnea. This treatment offers a promising alternative to existing therapies like CPAP for patients with heart failure.
A new virtual reality application delivers exposure therapy for PTSD by immersing soldiers in simulated trauma-relevant environments. The system has shown encouraging clinical results, with 80% of patients experiencing clinically meaningful reductions in PTSD symptoms.
The European Society of Cardiology recommends a single, co-ordinated European system to oversee the evaluation and approval of medical devices. The current system has been criticized for its lack of rigor in testing standards, unlike the US where trials must show clinical impact.
Recent analysis of children and adolescents with FASD reveals significant volume reductions in deep gray matter structures. These findings suggest that the brain's relay stations, responsible for efficient communication between regions, are disproportionately affected by alcohol exposure during fetal development.
A study by MIT researchers found that remanufacturing products can be more energy-efficient in some cases, but new technology often cancels out savings. The team looked at life-cycle analysis and found that many remanufactured products are less energy-efficient due to newer versions being more efficient.
A study of 266 healthy adults aged 70-88 found that driving errors, such as failing to check blind spots and speeding, increased with age. The results have implications for skill-based driving tests and training for older drivers.
A mathematical model developed by scientists shows that ecosystems remain relatively stable despite constant changes in species populations, highlighting the ecosystem's role as a self-contained entity. This finding suggests that preserving entire ecosystems may be more crucial than protecting specific endangered species.
A study found that biopsies and patient-provided specimens revealed dermatitis, excoriation, and ulceration but not objective evidence of skin infestation in patients with delusional infestation. Skin inflammation may trigger delusional symptoms in susceptible individuals.
A new risk score can effectively identify patients with acute aortic dissection, which has a high mortality rate. The tool uses simple bedside screening to detect the condition's symptoms, including sudden, intense pain, and is backed by a large study involving over 2,500 patients.
A University of Missouri engineer has developed a flexible solar sheet that captures more than 90% of available light, capturing both sunlight and heat for electricity generation. The team plans to make prototypes available within five years, with potential commercial applications in various industries.
A new paper identifies three ways employees hide their knowledge from co-workers: being evasive, rationalized hiding, and playing dumb. Basic distrust and a poor knowledge-sharing climate are the two big predictors of this behavior.
A recent study found that patients who delay seeking emergency medical care for asthma exacerbations are more likely to be sicker and hospitalized than those who seek care earlier. The study also revealed that patients who postponed treatment were not more likely to consult physicians before coming to the emergency department, but rath...
A study found that African-American children are more likely to have poorer lung function and less well-controlled asthma upon their first visit to an asthma specialist. They also reported a greater burden from asthma, with more emergency department visits, hospitalizations, and intensive care unit stays.
Researchers at Ohio State University found that adding low-dose sorafenib to chemotherapy and radiation can improve treatment efficacy while reducing harsh side effects. The triple combination was well-tolerated in an animal model.
A traditional Chinese herbal paste called Xiao Chuan has been shown to reduce the frequency of winter exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The study, conducted in Beijing, found that patients treated with XCP experienced statistically significant reductions in steroid use and episodes of shortness of breath.
Most medical students feel unprepared to challenge poor clinical practice and promote better patient care due to inadequate legal training. A survey of 1,154 UK medical students found that confidence in using legal rules and challenging deficiencies is low.
Researchers at Joslin Diabetes Center identified PKC-delta as a major factor for insulin resistance in mice, correlating with obesity-related conditions. The enzyme's activity was found to be increased in both human and mouse models of insulin resistance, suggesting it as a promising target for drug development.
Researchers discovered isocyanic acid, a chemical linked to cataracts and inflammation, in smoke-related environments. The findings highlight the need for more extensive measurement of HNCO in tobacco smoke and indoor biomass burning.
Scientists have identified key molecular patterns in the blood of lung cancer patients, which can help detect the disease at an early stage. The study found these patterns are present even in tumors still in their earliest stages, offering new hope for improving lung cancer diagnosis and treatment.
A study found that many gastroenterologists are not knowledgeable about the appropriate immunizations to recommend to IBD patients. In fact, over half of gastroenterologists did not regularly ask their patients about immunization history. This lack of knowledge can lead to IBD patients being vulnerable to vaccine-preventable illnesses.
Researchers have identified a stem cell population that can reverse nerve cell loss in individuals with Parkinson disease. Protein-based human induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells were found to efficiently generate functional dopamine neurons and treat a rat model of the disease. These findings suggest a potential new treatment approac...
A systematic review found that t'ai chi is effective for fall prevention and improving psychological health, with general health benefits for older people. However, its effectiveness for other conditions such as cancer and rheumatoid arthritis is contradictory.
A surgical procedure to remove enlarged tonsils and adenoids may reduce blood pressure in children with OSA, preventing heart damage. In a study of 115 children, adenotonsillectomy resulted in lower blood pressure levels during sleep, restored the normal nighttime dip in blood pressure, and even reduced heart size in some cases.
Researchers found that add-on diabetes drugs for patients with uncontrolled diabetes on metformin and sulfonylurea have no clear between-drug differences. High-seelenium yeast supplements slightly reduced cholesterol levels but increased the risk of harm, particularly in countries with adequate selenium intake. Obesity is linked to fun...
The American Institute of Physics has posted lay-language summaries of recent research presentations at the Acoustical Society meeting. These summaries cover a wide range of topics, including biomedical ultrasound, reducing underwater noise, and new car mufflers. The online collection offers easily approachable explanations of complex ...
Researchers have developed a novel, topically-applied molecular microbicide that uses RNA interference (RNAi) to prevent HIV transmission. The microbicide was tested in mice and found to provide long-lasting protection against HIV infection, opening the door to developing an intravaginal microbicide for women's protection.
Research finds that school victimization in middle and high school is associated with depression, suicide attempts, STDs, and HIV risk in young adulthood. The study highlights the importance of addressing anti-LGBT bullying at schools to reduce health disparities among LGBT youth.
Researchers at the University of Washington are developing a semi-automated scan using ultrathin laser endoscope and software to create a full, 3-D panorama of the bladder interior. This technology has the potential to bring endoscopy into a more digital age.
Researchers Claire Rind and Luke Birkett discovered tarantulas shoot silk from their feet when they lose their footing. The silk is produced by microscopic spigots on the spiders' feet, which are distributed across the foot's surface.
A €3.5M European Commission-funded project is working to understand the causes of pollinator declines and develop ways to manage landscapes for wild bee conservation. The STEP project aims to safeguard pollinators providing essential services to crops and wildflowers.
Comparing the genomes of plant parasites has provided insights into their invasion strategies and sabotaged plant immune responses. This knowledge can be used to develop new tools for diagnosis and disease forecasting, as well as breeding crops with stronger disease resistance genes.
A recent study published in Brain Connectivity suggests that ongoing, intrinsic brain activity accounts for the majority of human brain energy usage. This finding challenges previous assumptions and highlights the complexity of brain function and structure.
A study conducted in New York found that 92% of urban minority children, aged 5-6, exhibited behavioral sleep problems. The children had significantly shorter sleep durations, averaging 7 hours and 45 minutes per night, compared to the recommended 10-11 hours.
Thurston worked with Dr. Nader Sanai to create a detailed Gantt chart, compressing the project timeline from five to three years and reducing expenses. The gift agreement includes financial incentives, motivating Dr. Sanai to achieve specific goals on a quarterly basis.
A team of researchers successfully barcoded over 28,000 Australian moth and butterfly specimens, covering 65% of the country's known species. This achievement will transform biodiversity monitoring and biosecurity efforts in Australia.
A new study disputes the use of a single minimum viable population number as a yardstick for conservation policies. Populations show rapid declines due to human activities, but removing negative effects, even small populations could be viable in the long term.
Research published in Injury Prevention found that young drivers who engage in risky behavior, such as speeding and using mobile phones while driving, are at a greater risk of psychological distress. The study also discovered that women are more likely to experience increased psychological distress compared to men.
A new study from Johns Hopkins Medicine reveals that obese patients undergoing colon surgery are 60% more likely to develop costly surgical-site infections. These infections result in extended hospital stays, increased costs of $17,000 per patient, and a three-times greater risk of hospital readmission.
Researchers created a new mouse model that can be used to study degenerative diseases, such as type I diabetes and Parkinson's disease. The Mos-iCsp3 mouse allows for targeted destruction of specific cell types, providing a valuable tool for developing therapies.
A lung protein called EMAPII has been identified as a key player in smoking-related emphysema. An antibody targeting this protein shows promise in reducing cell death and inflammation in mice with emphysema, suggesting potential as a new treatment for the condition.
Research on Rana boylii reveals tadpoles are weak swimmers and don't survive high-flow events, while habitat modeling tools provide reliable predictions. The study's findings guide conservation planning for the species, emphasizing the importance of mimicking natural flow patterns to conserve riverine species.
A surgical procedure involving muscle transfer from the thigh appears to improve smile function and overall quality of life in children with facial paralysis. Thirteen children experienced statistically significant QOL improvement after the free gracilis transfer surgery.
Gina Hodges, a University of Oklahoma graduate student, has been awarded $30,000 annually for three years to research flash flood prediction using next-generation radar observations and stormscale rainfall forecasts. Her goal is to improve current methods to protect public lives and property.
Researchers have uncovered patterns of ancient croplands in Hawaii, providing clues to individual household farming decisions. The findings suggest that these decisions were later adopted by the ruling class, leading to a more complex agricultural system. This study offers insights into the structure of Hawaiian society during this tim...
Research from Rice University and the University of Delaware found that unverifiable information like personal stories enhances lending decisions. Borrowers who explain their circumstances but deny details have poor loan performance. Using a 'trustworthy' identity can lower costs by almost 30% and save $375 in interest charges.
Scientists at the University of Washington have identified 21 newly occurring genetic mutations in children with autism spectrum disorder, many of which altered proteins. The study suggests that these sporadic mutations could contribute substantially to the underlying mechanisms and severity of autism in approximately 20 percent of cases.
A new computer-based decision aid has been developed to educate patients with moderate/severe COPD on end-of-life planning, generating an accurate advance directive that reflects their wishes. Patients reported high levels of satisfaction and no decrease in hope after using the program.
A study found that reminding hospital staff about the costs of daily blood draws resulted in a significant reduction in routine blood tests ordered. The intervention led to cost savings of $54,967 over an 11-week period.
A previously unknown fossil primate, Mescalerolemur horneri, has been discovered in West Texas, dating back to the Eocene Epoch. The species is closely related to Eurasian and African adapiforms, challenging current understanding of North American primates.
The California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation has established a set of quality measurements for its prison health care services, building on research from the RAND Corporation. The new measurements will help improve access to care and quality of care in the prison system.
A new test measuring multiple parameters including PSA and six antibodies found in the blood of men with prostate cancer is more sensitive and specific than the conventional PSA test. The A+PSA assay reduces false-positives and shows great potential to improve prostate cancer diagnosis.
A new review article outlines four ways in which happiness can be problematic, including the risk of disappointment and decreased happiness when pursuing it. The study also finds that excessive or inappropriately felt happiness can lead to negative consequences, such as reckless behavior and social problems.
A team from MBL and West Point used hyperspectral imaging to model cuttlefish camouflage in the eyes of fish predators, revealing that brightness is more important than color. This study provides strong evidence that cuttlefish can produce effective camouflage despite lacking color vision.
Researchers discovered a link between cell rigidity and proteins associated with cancer activity, using innovative collaboration between physics and cell biology. Exerting mechanical force on cells activates Rho GEF proteins, leading to tumor growth and metastasis.
Researchers identified Abcc10 as a key player in resisting certain anticancer drugs, including taxanes. Blunting its activity may help counteract resistance and make these drugs more effective, providing hope for improved treatment options.
A CSIRO Australia study found that ocean warming is detrimental to the growth of a long-lived south-east Australian and New Zealand inshore species, the banded morwong. The research team analyzed long-term changes in the growth rates of the banded morwong and observed slowed growth at warmer temperatures.