Patients with mild to moderate dyssynchrony and preserved contractile function benefit most from CRT-D, according to the latest MADIT-CRT trial analysis. The study found that improvements in synchrony and contractile function are associated with reduced death and heart failure events.
Researchers identified the Lrp5 gene's crucial role in bone growth and density, providing a new strategy for treating diseases like osteoporosis. The study also found that targeting mature bone cells might increase bone mass and treat conditions like osteogenesis imperfecta.
Researchers at Queensland University of Technology found a mushroom compound, polysaccharopeptide (PSP), to be 100% effective in suppressing prostate tumor development in mice. PSP targets prostate cancer stem cells and prevents tumour formation without causing side effects.
A sub-analysis of the EMPHASIS-HF trial found eplerenone significantly reduced new onset atrial fibrillation and flutter in patients with class 2 heart failure. The benefits of eplerenone were similar in patients with and without atrial fibrillation at baseline.
Scientists at Harvard School of Public Health discovered that cells exert forces on their neighbors, leading to a cooperative yet chaotic migration. The study found that collective cellular migration is not a smooth process, but rather an 'organized chaos' with pushing and pulling in all directions.
The Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) is establishing 18 new Research Training Groups, focusing on various fields such as astro-particle physics, globalization, and knowledge transfer. The groups will provide early-career researchers with intensive mentoring and opportunities for collaboration.
Researchers Anna Dornhaus and Benjamin Blonder found that ant colonies exhibit unique behavior, contradicting the assumption of universal properties in self-directed networks. The study recorded over 9,000 interactions between individual ants, providing insight into complex communication within the colony.
A decade-long study demonstrates that holmium laser therapy is a safe and durable treatment option for Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia, reducing complications and recurrence rates compared to traditional TURP. Patients treated with HoLEP experience reduced pain, shorter hospital stays, and fewer sexual side effects.
The NAPANIL project explores the potential of 3D nanoimprinting techniques in various applications, including optics, life sciences, and industry. The project aims to bridge the gap between basic research and industrial uptake, with a focus on cost-efficient products and novel functionalities.
A new mathematical model shows that species pairs can reemerge after collapse if the disturbance is removed. Hybridization between closely-related species can lead to population decline and biodiversity loss. The study suggests that ecosystem managers may be able to refill ecological niches, but not resurrect lost species.
A global analysis of invasive plant impacts found that 135 species cause a 40% reduction in native plant abundance and a 50% decrease in species diversity. This study highlights the context-dependent nature of invasions, with impacts varying by species traits, ecosystem type, and duration.
Researchers developed a tool to measure outcomes of brachial plexus surgery, which is currently inconsistent and difficult to compare. The new tool aims to standardize reporting, helping clinicians advance the science and improve patient care.
The study found a significant rise in US home births between 2004 and 2008, driven primarily by an increase in non-Hispanic white women's choices. Home birth rates for other groups remained low or showed little change.
New research provides evidence for the significant differences between new and old red blood cells used for transfusions. The study found that older red blood cells have undergone 'significant changes and damage', compromising their cell membrane integrity, making them not useful for transfusions.
The American Federation for Aging Research (AFAR) awards $2.5 million to support the training of academic leaders in geriatrics, addressing a critical need for geriatricians with over 36,000 projected by 2030.
A recent study published in Biological Conservation found that spider populations are negatively affected by human activities such as habitat fragmentation, fire, and pesticides. The research, which analyzed 173 scientific papers, suggests that spiders are not exempt from the risks caused by human action.
The arch dam's performance is affected by the relaxation of its foundation following excavation. The study found that relaxation increases principal tensile stresses at the upstream face and compressive stress at the downstream face, which is undesirable for safety.
A study published in Drug Testing and Analysis found that many 'legal highs' sold online do not contain advertised ingredients, with some containing controlled substances instead. Dr. Mark Baron's research highlights the need for consumers to be aware of the dangers of purchasing products from unregulated online retailers.
New studies at UCSB reveal wide-ranging variability in retinal neurons among individuals, with potential causal genes identified for cone photoreceptor production. The research contributes to a fuller understanding of retina development and its significance in vision research.
The One Mind for Research Forum aims to dramatically advance the understanding and treatment of brain disorders, including Parkinson's disease. Researchers will share latest findings on neurodegenerative diseases, and a 10-year research agenda will be endorsed.
Researchers have successfully used gene-modified stem cells to protect bone marrow cells from chemotherapy's toxic effects in patients with brain tumors. The treatment involved infusing gene-modified blood stem cells into patients, which persisted for over a year without showing any harmful effects.
Five University of Houston graduates have received National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowships to pursue advanced degrees in physics, geology, psychology, and the life sciences. The recipients will cover tuition and receive annual stipends, with plans to conduct research and teach at top universities.
Researchers from Tel-Aviv University discovered that ground beetles of the genus Epomis prey on live amphibians at night, contrary to their daytime sheltering behavior. The study found that two species of Epomis beetles attack different amphibian species, with only one species preying on a particular species.
A novel computational assisted design strategy was introduced to lower the complexity of ZFN production. The FoldX force field-based approach predicts protein-DNA binding energy, reducing failure rates and increasing efficiency in producing customized ZFNs.
A study led by the University of California, San Francisco found that childhood cancer survivors have a significantly higher risk of developing gastrointestinal complications later in life. Over 40% of cancer survivors reported experiencing some type of GI complication within 20 years after treatment.
Tropical Storm 04W is growing rapidly with towering thunderstorms reaching up to 10 miles high, according to NASA's TRMM satellite data. The storm is predicted to strengthen into a Category 2 typhoon by May 25, posing potential threats to the northern Philippines.
A prospective study of 59,000 African American women found that those with diets rich in vegetables and fruit gained less weight than those with diets low in these foods. This association was strongest among younger women, who experienced significant weight gain over the 14-year period.
Researchers used radio telescopes to produce the most detailed image of particle jets erupting from a supermassive black hole in a nearby galaxy. The image shows features as small as 15 light-days across, making it the highest-resolution view of galactic jets ever made.
Scientists at Queen Mary University of London found that oil palm plantations are driving forest fragmentation, leading to a decline in bat species and genetic diversity. Larger forest patches, over 10,000 hectares, are necessary to retain comparable levels of biodiversity and prevent local extinction.
Rima Taher, a civil and structural engineer at NJIT, presents research on designing low-rise buildings for extreme winds and hurricanes. Her recommendations include using square or hexagonal floor plans with multiple-sloped roofs to improve wind resistance.
Researchers at Iowa State University have developed a fungus-based process that improves the economics of ethanol production by producing high-quality animal feed and cleaning water for recycling. The MycoMeal process has the potential to save US ethanol producers up to $800 million per year in energy costs.
A two-year study published in Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery found that artificial disc replacement was comparable to fusion surgery in terms of outcomes, but showed individual patient advantages. Patients in the artificial disc group experienced less pain, reduced medication use, and higher satisfaction rates.
The University of Southampton is part of a £4.57 million project to evaluate biomass as a sustainable energy source in the UK. The research aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and create a cost-effective energy system by 2050.
Researchers found that high iron and copper levels can block brain-cell DNA repair mechanisms, leading to accumulation of genetic damage associated with neurodegenerative diseases. The study suggests a potential therapeutic target in curcumin, a common spice with beneficial health effects.
Researchers discovered that early mammals developed larger-than-expected brains to enhance their sense of smell. The study used CT technology to reconstruct the brains of two ancient species and found that they had more developed olfactory centers than expected.
A study published in Science Express reveals that RNA sequences in human cells diverge from DNA sequences, generating proteins with different sequences. The findings suggest unknown cellular processes are acting on RNA to create genetic diversity, which may contribute to differences in disease susceptibility.
New research in the FASEB Journal suggests that flawed antibody production could compromise resistance to infections during long-term missions. Scientists found that antibodies produced in space are less effective than those produced on Earth, posing a serious risk for astronauts.
A U-M study found that a curcumin-based compound, FLLL32, can improve the effectiveness of head and neck cancer treatment by sensitizing resistant cells to chemotherapy. The compound decreases activation levels of STAT3, making tumor cells more susceptible to cisplatin.
Researchers at Duke University found that strobe-like eyewear can improve visual abilities, particularly in detecting brief stimuli and small changes in motion. The study involved nearly 500 participants who trained with either strobe or control eyewear, showing some improvements in noticing brief stimuli after training.
Researchers at the Salk Institute will investigate the connection between genetics and social behavior using Williams syndrome as a model. They hope to gain insight into other neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism.
A study published in Social Psychological and Personality Science found that people who break social rules are perceived as having more power and being more in control. The researchers suggest that this is because breaking rules makes others think you're powerful, rather than corrupting behavior itself.
A team of paleontologists discovered that early mammals, including Morganucodon and Hadrocodium, had larger brains than expected for their time. The researchers found that the olfactory part of the brain and the area linked to tactile sensation through fur were enlarged in these early mammals.
Research suggests that cell phone use can lead to increased testosterone levels but decreased fertility due to altered hormone balances.
A $2-million grant brings together health researchers from across Canada to investigate patient safety in spinal-manipulative therapy. The team aims to develop instruments for practitioners and patients to record and report adverse events, as well as explore the legal obligations of healthcare providers.
Researchers discovered that Viagra reduces multiple sclerosis symptoms by reducing inflammation and facilitating myelin repair. A daily treatment resulted in a 50% practically complete recovery rate in animal models with the disease.
Researchers at Virginia Commonwealth University have found that dietary inorganic nitrate can stabilize mitochondria and protect against free-radical damage in the heart. The study suggests that nitrate supplementation may reduce the risk of heart damage in patients undergoing chemotherapy with doxorubicin.
The Children's Health Insurance Program Reauthorization Act (CHIPRA) has identified a core set of recommended healthcare quality measures for children, with the goal of improving the nation's child health care system. The measures focus on key areas such as duration of coverage, availability of services, and patient experiences.
Researchers found that cattle fed with wet distiller's grains (WDGS) had higher levels of E. coli O157:H7 in manure and on their hides compared to those without WDGS. The study aims to determine the causes of this difference and find ways to reduce E. coli levels.
Researchers found that extracts from six Indian wild plants effectively killed bacteria and fungi, including E. coli, S. aureus, and Candida. These natural remedies offer hope against resistant species, particularly Pseudomonas aeruginosa.
A study found that thinking about one's own death increases concern for society, motivating people to donate blood. Participants who thought about their mortality were more likely to take a pamphlet, regardless of the article they read, suggesting a personal connection with death can enhance altruistic behavior.
Scientists uncover a highly conserved dual mechanism that regulates both brain development and function across diverse species. The discovery could lead to biomarkers for neurological diseases and potentially cure them with microRNA therapeutics.
A new report by the Commonwealth Fund recommends modifications to current policies to minimize gaps in health insurance coverage and administrative burdens when people's lives change, particularly during job transitions or income fluctuations. The report aims to ensure that individuals can easily sign up for and keep their coverage, re...
Researchers at Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center have discovered a new drug target for squamous cell carcinoma, the second most common form of skin cancer. The protein alpha-catenin acts as a tumor suppressor and regulates cell proliferation by controlling Yap1 activity in cancer cells.
Patients with mismatch repair defects have lower tumor recurrence rates, longer remissions, and improved overall and disease-free survival compared to those without the defects. The study suggests that these defects are associated with a reduced response to 5-FU therapy, particularly in patients with inherited defects.
Ray Johnston, a former NBA player, has survived acute promyelocytic leukemia thanks to experimental drug tamibarotene, which induced cancer cells to differentiate into mature cells. The rare form of leukemia is typically curable with current therapies but becomes more resistant and harder to treat upon relapse.
Researchers at UW-Madison discovered that liquid crystal droplets change ordering in response to low concentrations of endotoxin, a bacterial lipid. This defect-driven phenomenon offers a highly sensitive detection method for bacterial contamination.
The American Cancer Society's new report highlights successes and gaps in cancer prevention efforts, including stalled declines in smoking rates and underutilized cancer screening tests. Improving these numbers will require coordinated efforts to address social, economic, and legislative factors influencing individual health behaviors.
Pitt researchers created a mouse model of major depressive disorder (MDD) using a rare genetic mutation. The model exhibits alterations in brain anatomy, gene expression, behavior, and increased infant mortality, supporting the role of the genetic variant in MDD development.
A human genetic variant associated with a 30% reduced risk of developing severe malaria has been identified. The FAS locus variant can prevent excessive immune responses in infected children, reducing the severity of the disease.
Kakani Katija, a postdoctoral scholar at WHOI, has been recognized as one of National Geographic's Emerging Explorers for her innovative research on biogenic ocean mixing. Her work focuses on the power sources that propel ocean currents, suggesting that swimming animals could play a significant role in shaping global climate.