A community-based care coordination approach combining evidence-based science and asthma education has shown improvements in health outcomes, particularly among low-income and minority children. The program demonstrated reductions in emergency room visits and hospitalizations, as well as increased parent empowerment and environmental t...
A recent study found that primary care providers (PCPs) fail to report a significant number of suspected child abuse cases. The researchers validated the PCPs' decisions using expert review and provider self-assessment, revealing a high sensitivity but low reporting rate. The study highlights the need for improved education on recogniz...
A research team at NIST has identified the genetic structure of the infectious salmon anemia virus (ISAV), which may play a critical role in its reproduction. This discovery could lead to new approaches for interfering with the replication of these viruses, potentially mitigating the effects of ISAV on the aquaculture industry.
An international research team, led by Jason Stajich, is sequencing 1000 fungal genomes to improve understanding of their role in ecosystems and human affairs. The '1000 Fungal Genomes' project aims to fill gaps in the Fungal Tree of Life and provide a foundation for interpreting how fungi adapt to their environments.
A recent study found that home nursing visits are as safe and effective as office-based care for initial post-delivery well-baby check-ups, reducing the risk of missed appointments. Home visits also provide modest benefits, including increased breastfeeding rates and maternal confidence in parenting skills.
Researchers developed a new anti-obesity medication that targets fat cells, reducing body weight and abdominal circumference in rhesus monkeys. The treatment showed promise in improving insulin resistance and reversing metabolic syndrome, potentially providing a non-surgical solution to obesity.
A new brain-imaging study by UCLA life scientists reveals that providing support to a loved one offers health benefits to the giver. The study found that women who gave support to their boyfriends in pain showed increased activity in reward-related regions of the brain, including the ventral striatum and septal area.
A new study found that autism diagnoses vary significantly across different clinical centers, with varying use of subcategories like Asperger syndrome. The research suggests that a more standardized approach to diagnosing autism spectrum disorders would provide more accurate and consistent information about individual patients.
The BRIDGE trial shows cangrelor provides effective maintenance of platelet inhibition with no apparent increase in major bleeding, but numerically higher rates of minor bleeding prior to surgery. Researchers found the investigational drug cangrelor could serve as a 'bridge' between discontinuing thienopyridines and surgery.
The 2011 AAAS Kavli Science Journalism Awards honored journalists Mark Johnson and Kathleen Gallagher for their compelling series on the use of genetic analysis to find the cause of an unknown disease. The awards also recognized Christine Peterson, Kerry Huller, and Wes Watson of the Casper Star-Tribune for their series on the shrinkin...
Former football players experience cognitive difficulties and worse physical and mental health compared to non-athletes. Adopting healthy dietary habits and regular exercise can help mitigate these effects, according to a University of Missouri study.
A study co-authored by University of Leicester expert identifies key genetic mechanisms controlling blood pressure, including two microRNAs that regulate renin hormone production. This breakthrough could lead to innovative new treatments for high blood pressure.
Researchers found that interviewers recalled less information about candidates with facial blemishes, leading to decreased evaluations. This study aims to raise awareness about workplace discrimination against individuals with facial stigmas.
A new study published in The Lancet reveals that electroencephalography (EEG) can detect awareness in people previously thought to be in a permanently vegetative state. Three out of 16 patients showed repetitive and reliable EEG responses to commands, indicating covert awareness despite being behaviorally unresponsive.
A recent report provides new ideas on the carbon and energy benefits of forests and forest products. Sustainably managed forests can store and substitute carbon, while forest biomass-based energy uses less stored carbon, reducing fossil fuel emissions.
A NASA-developed nanotech-based coating absorbs on average more than 99 percent of ultraviolet, visible, infrared, and far-infrared light, making it useful for suppressing stray light in space instruments. This material can help scientists gather hard-to-obtain measurements of distant objects without interference from background light.
A multidisciplinary team will deploy to Pine Island Glacier in Antarctica to measure the shape of the cavity underneath the ice shelf and determine how warm ocean water interacts with it. The goal is to understand why the glacier is accelerating and contributing to sea-level rise.
A University of Leicester study found that individuals with extreme antisocial personality are more likely to join gangs. Gangs provide a sense of belonging and acceptance for these individuals, who struggle with social connections due to their behavior.
A new international health survey found that chronically ill US adults who received care from a medical home were less likely to report medical errors and had better relationships with their doctors. In contrast, the US stood out for having the highest rates of cost-related access problems and medical bill burdens.
A new University of Houston study aims to reduce excessive alcohol use among college students by changing perceptions of peer drinking behavior. The five-year, $2.8 million NIH-funded research study will collect campus-wide norms and provide personalized normative feedback to help students understand their own drinking habits.
Researchers investigate rodent scent signals to monitor and manipulate behaviour for better control of destructive rodents. The study aims to develop more efficient ways of targeting rodents while improving humaneness of control methods.
A study of over 2,300 older Americans found that those under financial strain were at risk of boosting their drinking, especially men and those with less education. In contrast, older women tended to cut down on drinking when facing financial hard times.
Research found that women adapt their brain function to recover from facial paralysis better than men, with improved spontaneous smile recovery and longer functional recovery periods. The study, involving 114 patients, highlights the relevance of patient gender in planning facial paralysis reconstruction strategies.
A new study published in PLoS ONE found that cooperative interactions between reviewers and authors increase reviewing accuracy, with a 13% rise in accuracy under open review models. Reviewers and authors who participated in these interactions had an 11% higher accuracy rate.
Researchers have provided the first ever map of the genes that determine how bacteria interact with their surrounding environment. The study reveals critical genetic secrets of a bacterium that holds potential for removing toxic and radioactive waste from the environment.
Dr. David Llewellyn has been awarded a two-year grant to investigate the link between low vitamin D levels and increased risk of dementia. His research aims to identify vitamin D as a potential biomarker and therapeutic target for preventing and treating the disease.
A study published in the Journal of Physical Activity and Health found that children are most physically active on long summer days, with daylight being the key factor. The researchers suggest that moving clocks forward all year round could be an effective way to promote child physical activity.
Scientists propose a novel mechanism for generating a magnetic field on the moon, driven by physical stirring of the liquid core. The 'geodynamo' could have operated for at least a billion years, explaining the presence of magnetized rocks and making predictions about the strength of the field over time.
A new aerial robot system developed by University of Cincinnati researchers can provide real-time information about wildfire locations and movements, helping firefighters make informed decisions. The system, known as SIERRA, has been tested in West Virginia with a small fire and showed promising results.
The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation announced the winners of its 2011 Community Health Leaders Award, recognizing 10 individuals who are improving the health and quality of life for disadvantaged communities. The recipients include Jamie Boyd, Naomi Cottoms, Lisanne Finston, Zane Gates, and others, who have overcome daunting odds to pro...
Scientists have created a fast and reliable test to detect ciguatoxin, the primary cause of ciguatera food poisoning. The new test uses standard laboratory instruments and has been proven effective in identifying 16 different forms of the toxin in fish from the Pacific Ocean.
Researchers at the University of Arizona have developed a new active metamaterial that demonstrates both power gain and negative refraction properties. This breakthrough enables the potential for high-performance microwave circuits and antennas with improved wireless communication and sensing capabilities.
A recent study by Case Western Reserve University found that helping others in 12-step programs significantly improves adolescent treatment response, reducing cravings for alcohol and drugs. The study also highlights the influence of religious practices on treatment outcomes.
Researchers have discovered a single receptor essential for the malaria parasite to invade human red blood cells, offering a promising new focus for vaccine development. This breakthrough could lead to the creation of an effective malaria vaccine that targets this universal entry pathway.
Researchers developed a computational model to predict justice's votes, outperforming legal expert forecasts and case content algorithms. The study found decreasing court predictability over the Warren-Rehnquist era and lower predictability during Democratic presidencies.
A new study by Johns Hopkins researchers reveals that US FDA testing of imported seafood is inadequate, with only 2% of imports tested, compared to 15-50% in EU, Japan, and Canada. This lack of inspection may lead to adverse health consequences due to antibiotic-resistant bacteria.
A new video game aims to improve middle school students' computer science knowledge, addressing a shortage of skilled workers in the field. The project, funded by $1 million from NSF, incorporates engaging elements to attract girls and other underrepresented groups.
A long-term study of VIVITROL, a medication for opioid dependence, found sustained efficacy over 18 months in patients who received the treatment in combination with psychosocial support. The study showed improvements in opioid-free urine screens and reductions in opioid craving.
Researchers find that mammals with relatively large brains tend to have a somewhat bigger digestive tract. The storage of fat plays a key role in brain size evolution, with more fat an animal species can store leading to a smaller brain.
Pediatric oncologists and biochemists advance treatment options for neuroblastoma by studying tumor biology at the molecular level. The study found that certain ALK mutations make cancer cells more resistant to crizotinib, but increasing dosage may overcome this resistance.
A team of researchers, led by Tufts University scientists, discovered a new species of fungus in an invasive paper wasp nest. The fungus, named Mucor nidicola, is fluffy and fast-growing, resembling bunny fur.
A pilot study of 31 obese people with gum disease found that those who underwent gastric bypass surgery had better periodontal outcomes than those who did not. The researchers believe that removing excess fat cells may help reduce inflammation and improve the body's response to treatment.
A $1.4 million NIH grant will investigate a method to heal peripheral nerve damage by stimulating the growth of Schwann cells and axons, potentially restoring function in patients with severe injuries. Researchers aim to develop effective tools for nerve repair using electrical stimulation technologies.
The AGGI measures the direct climate influence of greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide and methane, showing a 29% increase since 1990. Climate warming has significant potential impacts on society, including water supplies, agriculture, ecosystems, and economies.
Scientists have developed an electrochemical sensor device that measures blood sugar levels from tears, potentially saving 350 million diabetes patients from finger-prick blood tests. The device tracks tear glucose levels, which correlate with blood glucose levels, allowing for multiple daily measurements without pain.
Scientists discover water's conductivity increases at extremely low temperatures, contradicting expectations for an ordinary liquid. This phenomenon supports the idea of a 'liquid-liquid' phase transition in water.
Researchers found a significant increase in median survival time for patients with recurrent metastatic non-small cell lung cancer treated with a combination epigenetic therapy. The study, funded by SU2C and the National Cancer Institute, showed four patients achieving major objective responses to subsequent treatments.
The BRIDGE trial results demonstrate that cangrelor maintains target levels of platelet inhibition, supporting its use as a management strategy for patients requiring prolonged platelet P2Y12 inhibition after thienopyridine discontinuation. The study showed 99% of cangrelor-treated patients maintained target levels, compared to 19% of ...
Preschool children who hear their parents describe objects and use those words perform better on spatial tests. The study found that learning to use a wide range of spatial words predicts later spatial thinking, which is important in mathematics, science, and technology.
Pitt mathematicians collaborate with neurobiology researchers to study the transfer of signals between brain regions and develop less invasive treatments. Their study may guide the creation of more effective deep brain stimulation procedures.
A combination epigenetic therapy has shown positive effects in a small clinical trial of late-stage lung cancer patients. The treatment increased median survival by two months and showed complete or near-complete responses in some patients. Researchers believe the therapy may reprogram gene expression to prevent cancer growth.
A study found that consuming dairy foods and higher protein resulted in improved markers of bone formation and reduced markers of bone degradation in overweight premenopausal women. The study showed that a diet with a high proportion of dairy foods and higher than recommended protein intake was associated with improved bone health.
The study found that open peer review fosters cooperation between reviewers and authors, leading to higher accuracy. Non-anonymous open review systems reward good reviewers, whereas traditional closed reviews do not.
A new report highlights the difficulties faced by prospective adoptive parents in Victoria, with many describing lengthy application processes and a perceived anti-adoption culture. The study recommends reviewing current processes and providing additional training and support for all parties involved.
A 22-year-old woman with amnesia demonstrated that her short-term memory is impaired when trying to recall new information. However, she showed no difficulty recalling familiar faces or words.
A study published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute found that fecal immunochemical testing (FIT) is more effective than guaiac fecal occult blood testing (gFOBT) in colonoscopy screenings, increasing attendance and diagnostic yield while reducing false positives. FIT is also cost-effective and clinically beneficial for d...
A Stanford team developed a machine-learning-based method called Computational Pathologist (C-Path) to analyze breast cancer microscopic images, outperforming human evaluations. The model assesses 6,642 cellular factors and identifies structural features that matter in predicting patient survival.
Researchers from Rice University and two other universities are developing a new generation of design software to accurately predict robot physical behavior. This tool will enable designers to find key flaws on a computer before building a prototype, reducing expenses and increasing innovation.
Researchers found that elevated TGF beta levels lead to fascin overexpression, promoting tumor metastasis. High fascin expression is associated with poor prognosis.
Researchers analyzed neutron decay patterns, placing constraints on theories explaining the universe's matter-antimatter imbalance. While no clear answer emerged, improved detector sensitivity limited possible explanations, offering a fresh perspective for future investigations.
A new method visualizes mechanical forces on cell surfaces in real-time, providing detailed view of forces as they occur. The technique has potential to diagnose and treat diseases related to cellular mechanics.
Researchers found a small group of people with high cognitive control can behave rationally in the Ultimatum Game, making more money. Most people offer uneven splits and reject offers, driven by strong emotional motives.
Scientists discover that genetic dysfunction in multiple cell types contributes to SCA7, a devastating neurological disorder. Targeting specific cell types may improve treatment and slow disease progression.
Researchers found that installing nest boxes in California vineyards increased avian species richness by over 50% and nearly quadrupled insectivorous bird density. The results suggest an effective method for vineyards to protect their crop while promoting avian conservation.
Researchers at Institut de recherches cliniques de Montreal (IRCM) have discovered therapeutic peptides affecting mitochondria. These compounds target cell mitochondria to treat various acute and chronic diseases, including ischemia reperfusion injury and neurodegenerative conditions.
Dr. Eric J. Topol was awarded the 2011 TCT Career Achievement Award for his groundbreaking research on acute myocardial infarction and interventional pharmacology, which has benefited millions of patients with cardiovascular disease. He is also a leader in personalized medicine and digital technology.
Researchers at Penn's Perelman School of Medicine have made a breakthrough in treating the rare genetic disorder FOP, also known as fibrodysplasia ossificans progressiva. By using RNA interference to silence the damaged gene copy and leave the normal copy untouched, they restored cellular function caused by the FOP mutation.
A recent study published in Neurology found that people with Parkinson's disease are nearly three times more likely to experience leg motor restlessness than those without the disease. However, restless legs syndrome was not significantly more common among patients with early-stage Parkinson's disease.
New calculations by Rice University researchers suggest that the ocean may have stored as much methane hydrate 56 million years ago as it does today. This could have released massive amounts of carbon, causing drastic climate change. The discovery challenges previous assumptions about the impact of methane hydrates on global climate.
Astronomers found two distinct populations of neutron stars, suggesting different supernova channels. The findings shed light on stellar evolution and open new research areas.
A new study suggests that Chinook salmon populations must increase significantly to sustain the growth of Southern Resident killer whales, currently facing decline. The research, published in PLOS ONE, provides a detailed model for managing both species' conservation.
Recent UC research examines the use of Depo-Provera as a eugenic tool, revealing that coercive reproductive practices persist in contemporary times. The study highlights how historical debates surrounding Depo-Provera mirror broader issues of eugenics, including racial and socioeconomic disparities.
The U.S. Department of Energy will fund two cutting-edge projects to replace rare-earth materials in magnets for wind turbines and electric vehicles. Researchers aim to develop new high-strength permanent magnets using cerium and manganese, reducing dependence on critical materials like rare earths.
Preschoolers who hear and use spatial language do better on tests of spatial skills, which are important in mathematics, science, and technology. The study found a 23% increase in spatial scores for children who produced 45 additional spatial words.
Dr. Richard A. McIndoe is leading a $7.5 million National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases grant to support studies on diabetes affecting 8.3% of Americans. The Diabetic Complications Consortium shares data on complications like heart attack, stroke, vision loss, and kidney damage.
A novel point-of-care genetic test has been shown to be clinically feasible and accurate, enabling rapid personalization of anti-platelet therapy for patients at risk. The study demonstrates that tailored treatment successfully protected all patients with the at-risk genetic variant from adverse events.
The American Chemical Society's Employment Outlook feature package explores the jobs situation for chemists, with a focus on the impact of economic weakness on hiring plans. The article also provides guidance for current and future job seekers to fully benefit from recruiters' services.
NICER will measure X-rays from hotspots on a neutron star's surface and its magnetic field, revealing the star's size and helping researchers determine an Equation Of State. This will unlock the secret of matter under extreme gravity in these incredibly dense objects.
Researchers at National Jewish Health have discovered a natural lipid, POPG, that inhibits influenza infections in cell cultures and mouse models. The molecule suppresses inflammatory responses, viral propagation, and cell death associated with influenza infection.
A growing body of evidence shows that man-made noise is bad for birds, particularly bigger birds with low-frequency songs. These species may be forced out of noisy sites because they can't hear each other over the din.
A recent study published in Health Affairs reveals that climate change-related events in the US resulted in $14 billion in health costs, 21,000 emergency room visits, and nearly 1,700 deaths. The analysis highlights the need for effective partnerships to mitigate public health damage and reduce health risks.
Researchers from NIST and UVA successfully demonstrated the use of electron tweezers to move, position and assemble tiny particles at the nanoscale. Electron tweezers have the potential to offer a thousand-fold improvement in sensitivity and resolution compared to traditional laser optical tweezers.
A new study funded by the Economic and Social Research Council found that Whitehall's deep-rooted culture of centralism is a major barrier to achieving localism in England. The research team conducted interviews with senior Whitehall officials and regional stakeholders, revealing a lack of flexibility and discretion in spending decisions.
Tufts University researcher Catherine Kuo is developing living tissue in the lab to study factors contributing to birth defects. She plans to engineer normal and abnormal tissues to investigate the impact of muscle movement on embryonic development.