Research suggests that shift work in teenagers may increase the risk of developing multiple sclerosis, a central nervous system autoimmune inflammatory disorder. Disruption of the circadian rhythm and sleep patterns are believed to contribute to this increased risk.
Researchers discovered that corticosteroids are ineffective for COPD patients due to reduced HDAC2 activity, which is caused by S-nitrosylation from cigarette smoke. Sulforaphane treatment restored HDAC2 activity and improved corticosteroid sensitivity in COPD patients.
A new study by University of Bristol researchers found that racehorses can adapt rapidly to changes in the daily light-dark cycle, leading to improved physical performance. The horses were able to run at full gallop for an additional 25 seconds before reaching fatigue after experiencing a shift in their 24-hour light-dark cycle.
A study suggests that alternating between learning and unlearning an unusual walking pattern on a split-belt treadmill can improve motor learning in healthy adults. This approach may help patients relearn how to walk after stroke or injury, improving therapeutic outcomes.
Scientists have discovered two new, closely related bee species on Coiba Island in Panama, which originated from a group of stingless bees that moved into Central America. The presence of one of these new species on the island raises questions about Panama's geological history and biodiversity.
A new Scripps Health study aims to fill the knowledge gap on idiopathic human diseases by using whole genome sequencing to determine their causes. The study, dubbed IDIOM, will include up to six participants and collaborate with other medical centers to share key findings.
A team of UGA scientists has successfully determined the structure of a glycosaminoglycan proteoglycan for the first time, identifying key sites of sulfation and paving the way for future research on its role in diseases such as cancer.
A new study finds that Canada is failing to support young families, with stagnant household incomes and high housing costs squeezing them for time and resources. Experts propose policy changes to address the issue, including universal childcare and flexible work arrangements.
The US health care system scored 64 out of 100 on key measures, with notable improvements in quality of care but significant erosion in access and affordability. The scorecard highlights the need for targeted efforts to improve areas such as adoption and use of health information technology and prevention of premature deaths.
Biologists at Florida State University devise novel method to replicate cell motility in vitro using worm sperm, revealing unprecedented insight into cell crawling mechanisms. This breakthrough has significant implications for understanding human health and developing therapies to combat cancer.
The American Academy of Pediatrics has expanded its guidelines on safe sleep for babies, providing specific recommendations to create a safe environment for their infants to sleep. The new guidelines aim to eliminate all sleep-related infant deaths, including SIDS and suffocation deaths.
Researchers at Trudeau Institute found a link between the formation of new lymphoid tissue in the lungs and protection from tuberculosis. The study, published in The Journal of Immunology, may lead to improved vaccines and therapies for fighting deadly disease.
The Hogg Foundation has awarded Scott & White Healthcare a $638,853 five-year grant to establish an internship program for doctoral psychology students. Thirteen interns will receive supervised training and experience, expanding the healthcare system's mental health services.
A new study finds that young human-specific genes are correlated with the development of advanced brain structures, such as the neocortex and prefrontal cortex. The genes are most often expressed during fetal or infant development, indicating an early role in shaping the complexity of the human brain.
Researchers from Virginia Tech have conducted the first study to investigate head impact characteristics in youth football. The study has collected data on over 400 head impacts experienced by a local youth team, revealing that most impacts are less severe and less frequent than in adult football.
A UCSF study found significant vision improvement in patients with severe bacterial corneal ulcers who received steroid therapy. Researchers tested 500 participants from the US and India, and results showed no harm but a benefit for those with more serious forms of ulcers.
Thyroid dysfunction is a common side effect of antineoplastic agents in 20-50% of cancer patients, causing fatigue, weakness, and depression. Researchers recommend screening for thyroid disease and monitoring of thyroid function tests to improve patient quality of life.
Researchers at Imperial College London have successfully created logic gates using harmless gut bacteria and DNA, paving the way for biological computing devices. The new biological logic gates can be connected to form more complex components, potentially leading to applications in sensors, cancer detection, and pollution monitoring.
Researchers at Tel Aviv University have developed software using facial recognition technology to identify and join digitized fragments of the Cairo Genizah collection. This has led to the discovery of pages from a work by Saadia Gaon, a prominent rabbi and philosopher from the 10th century.
A study published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal found that children and adolescents in foster care are at increased risk of suicide attempts and hospitalizations, but rates decrease after they enter care. Children with psychiatric disorders had the largest decrease in attempted suicides and hospitalizations.
The Peggy Lillis Memorial Foundation honors Dr. Sherwood Gorbach for his pioneering research and efforts to combat Clostridium difficile infection, a bacterial infection causing severe diarrhea and inflammation of the colon. The award recognizes his contributions to increasing prevention and minimizing death and disability from C. diff.
A recent review article examines how gender roles and stereotypes have shaped our understanding of sex and relationships, concluding that many assumptions are unfounded. The study aims to debunk myths and highlight the social factors driving human behavior in intimate settings.
A recent study identified a protein called estrogen-related receptor alpha (ERRα) that fuels the growth of aggressive breast tumors. Researchers found that targeting this protein with an experimental drug can inhibit tumor growth in cellular models, offering a potential new approach for treating estrogen-receptor negative cancers.
The NCBRSI will bring together scientists, clinicians, and clinical trial specialists to develop groundbreaking surgical ideas, carry out clinical trials, and disseminate knowledge and techniques to hospitals across the UK. The centre aims to improve quality of life for millions of people affected by bowel disorders in the UK.
Researchers sequenced the genomes of two non-human primate species, Chinese rhesus macaque and cynomolgus, and compared them with a previously sequenced Indian rhesus macaque. The study reveals abundant genetic heterogeneity among the three macaques, which may facilitate biomedical analysis and application.
Two independent research teams identify Fusobacterium in colon cancer tissue, a finding that could lead to new avenues for diagnosis and treatment of the disease. The bacteria were found more often in colon cancer tissues than normal tissue, sparking potential links between infection and colorectal tumors.
The University of Nevada, Reno has received a $10 million NIH grant to enhance biological sciences research and collaboration. The project aims to understand cell communication and its role in human neurological diseases.
A study by Rui Yao found that Chinese-American households hold few consumer debts outside of mortgages, with only 5% having auto loans and 3% other types. Higher-income households were more likely to have some consumer debt, reflecting cultural differences in credit usage.
The Trudeau Institute has made a breakthrough in treating Listeria infections by identifying a key role for blood-clotting proteins in immune defense. The study suggests that FXI-targeted therapeutics may be useful for treating severe infections caused by Listeria and other sepsis-causing bacteria.
The Atlas of Malaria-Eliminating Countries highlights countries successfully moving toward eliminating the disease, providing a visual tool to help focus resources. Thirty-six countries are making rapid progress towards malaria elimination, with the atlas showing where pockets of transmission remain and how the disease is concentrated.
Scientists at University of California, Riverside, are conducting a two-year study on hybrid bulldozer and excavator emission reduction benefits. The project aims to establish the methodology for comparing hybrid vehicles under varied conditions and may inform a hybrid incentive program.
Early-stage laryngeal cancer patients receiving primary surgery have a higher four-year survival rate compared to those treated with radiation. Meanwhile, chemotherapy combined with radiation therapy has seen increased use in advanced-stage patients, improving their survival rates.
UCSB researchers develop scalable synthesis technique for high-quality and uniform graphene, controlled number of layers, and improved carrier mobility. The discovery paves the way for next-generation electronics applications in green electronics, super-strong materials, and medical technology.
Scientists at Salk Institute discovered a new form of RDS in newborn mice and traced it to cellular receptor for thyroid hormone. Drugs used for treating overactive thyroid glands saved mice with deadly genetic alteration mimicking the lung problem, offering clues for new treatments.
Scientists from the University of Gothenburg have launched a GIS system called SEES to determine solar energy potential for existing structures. The system analyzes geographical data and simulates shadows to calculate annual solar radiation on roof surfaces.
Researchers discovered that antiviral agents can decrease the accumulation of AD proteins β-amyloid and P-tau in HSV1-infected cells. The study suggests that these agents might be effective in slowing Alzheimer's progression, targeting a cause rather than symptoms.
A new technology, FLAMES (floating light activated micro-electrical stimulators), has been developed to help individuals with spinal cord injuries. The device is wirelessly controlled and can activate nerves in the spinal cord, allowing patients to regain motor functions.
The cereal leaf beetle, introduced in the US in the early 1960s, has rapidly spread across the country, becoming a major pest of oats, barley, and wheat. Current research focuses on developing new information and procedures to encourage growers to adopt integrated pest management approaches.
A team of researchers has identified a way for the brain to protect itself when its energy supply is running low. The brain uses a protein called AMPK to reduce the firing frequency of electrical impulses, conserving energy. This discovery could lead to new treatments for patients at risk of stroke.
Researchers found that people with previous ankle injuries tend to move their hips and knees differently when landing, which may contribute to re-injury. The study provides new insights into the role of joint movements in ankle sprains.
A new statistical approach, stochastic frontier estimation (SFE), has been developed to address bias in self-reported medical research data. This technique can identify bias at specific times and individual levels, ensuring more robust double-blind placebo-controlled trials.
A new DNA-based prenatal blood test can significantly reduce the number of risky diagnostic procedures needed to identify pregnancies with Down syndrome. The test identified 98.6% of affected pregnancies while only 0.2% of normal pregnancies were misidentified as positive.
Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing have found a link between low birthweight and an increased risk of autism spectrum disorders. Premature infants are five times more likely to be diagnosed with autism than children born at normal weight, according to the study published in Pediatrics.
The Pecan Pest Information Platform for Extension and education (PIPE) provides real-time access to information on pecan integrated pest management. Stakeholders have increased adoption and usage of the resource, with over 41,000 annual visits recorded.
A new study conducted by two seventh-grade students found that over one in four kindergarten children and one in five teachers struggled to distinguish between medicine and candy. The most common mistakes included mixing M&Ms with Coricidin, SweeTARTS with Mylanta, and Reese's Pieces with Sine-off.
A lack of national suicide prevention strategy in Canada puts lives at risk, but education and targeted interventions have shown promise. Physicians can play a crucial role in prevention through early detection, treatment, and follow-up.
A team of researchers has discovered a pervasive human RNA modification that contributes to obesity and type II diabetes. The study shows that this modification process, called methylation, impacts protein expression and function through its action on a common RNA base: adenosine.
The University of Nevada, Reno has received a grant to explore how video games can be played without visual feedback to help visually impaired adolescents increase their physical activity. The project, VI Fit, aims to develop novel interaction techniques that utilize the user's body as a display device.
A Stanford study found that family members of gastric-bypass patients lost an average of 8 pounds, adopted healthier habits, and increased physical activity. The 'halo effect' was observed, where accompanying the patient to pre- and post-operative visits led to significant weight loss and behavioral changes.
Obese family members who undergo bariatric surgery experience significant weight loss and improvements in healthy behaviors, including reduced uncontrolled eating and increased physical activity. Children of patients also benefit from adopting healthier habits after their parent's surgery.
Prof. Richard Isralowitz of Ben-Gurion University of the Negev received a US National Distinguished International Scientist Award for his work as director of the Regional Alcohol and Drug Abuse Resources (RADAR) Center. RADAR focuses on substance use issues among Israeli and former Soviet Union-origin youth and adults.
The Regenstrief Institute is launching an initiative to encourage and propel innovation in healthcare. The program focuses on enhancing the working environment and providing high-quality, lower-cost care. Research teams will be encouraged to develop high-risk, high-reward ideas that could disrupt current approaches.
A newly identified type of astrocyte cell displays atypical behavior and causes motor neuron death, suggesting a new target for ALS therapies. The discovery offers hope for slowing or stopping the progression of this devastating disease, affecting 30,000 Americans.
Differences in two metabolic enzymes may explain susceptibility to liver damage. Low levels of GAPDH and NDPK are associated with increased oxidative stress and disease severity.
A Joslin study found that stimulation of the metabolism-sensing enzyme AMP kinase regulates crucial gene expression, causing neural tube defects and other heart defects in babies born to diabetic mothers. Even with controlled blood sugar levels, the risk is still twice that of the general population.
Researchers have discovered a critical protein called calpain that contributes to the development of pulmonary hypertension in adults. Blocking this protein may prove effective in preventing narrow, scarred blood vessels and treating the condition.
A new study in New Mexico found that 52% of infants who died from SUID/SIDS were placed to sleep in a non-supine position, while 71% were on an unsafe sleep surface. Continued public education programs are essential to prevent these infant deaths.
A new study found that over half of cancer-free women will experience false-positive results from annual mammograms, leading to unnecessary testing and anxiety. Shifting screening to every other year can lower the risk by a third.
Researchers found that low-income fathers have a positive view of breastfeeding but lack specific knowledge about its benefits. They also reported feeling limited in their ability to influence their partner's decision to breastfeed.
Researchers have successfully joined epidermic stem cells to create healthy skin in the lab, preserving their regenerative potential. They can now use these cells to regenerate patients' skin, offering a new therapeutic strategy for those with limited treatment options.