NASA is studying three experimental methods for capturing and transporting particles using laser light, including optical vortex and solenoid beams. The goal is to develop a system that can collect extraterrestrial samples more efficiently and reduce mission costs.
Mayo Clinic researchers have developed a new assessment index for microscopic colitis, allowing physicians to objectively score the condition's severity. The Microscopic Colitis Disease Activity Index provides a consistent way to assess symptoms beyond just diarrhea frequency.
A Group Health Research Institute study found that obesity is associated with higher health care costs, but not due to co-occurring depression. Similarly, depression is linked to increased costs, but not because of co-occurring obesity. The study's findings have significant economic implications for the general population.
A new report questions adequacy of disinfection regulations in nail salons and barbershops, suggesting potential transmission of bloodborne pathogens. The study emphasizes the need for further research to define the true magnitude of this risk.
Researchers found that treating patients with low-level non-invasive current stimulation for 10 days significantly reduced visual impairment and improved vision-related quality of life. The study showed a 41% shrinkage of visual field loss in treated patients compared to those receiving sham treatment.
Researchers found that high levels of heat shock factor 1 (HSF1) in ER-positive breast cancer tissue are associated with poorer outcomes, including increased mortality. Elevated HSF1 levels also correlate with larger and more aggressive tumors.
Research suggests that childhood and adult traumas contribute to adult irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), with general life traumas being more common than physical or emotional abuse. The study found patients with IBS report higher levels of traumas over a lifetime, which may sensitize the brain and gut.
Researchers found that specific microRNAs are up-regulated in obese individuals with healthy periodontium and non-obese subjects with periodontal disease. The study suggests microRNA modulation may play a role in modulating inflammatory pathways within periodontal tissues.
Researchers found global increases in ligand binding to CB1 receptors in the brains of women with anorexia nervosa, suggesting a compensatory process. The study suggests that the endocannabinoid system may be a potential new target for developing drugs to treat eating disorders.
Current and former smokers face impaired pancreatic duct cell function and increased risk of colorectal cancer, even after quitting. Women are more susceptible to these risks than men, highlighting the need for early smoking cessation as part of treatment plans.
Fecal microbiota transplants have shown high efficacy in treating recurrent C. difficile infections, with a success rate of 91% in one study. The procedure has also been effective in treating Inflammatory Bowel Disease, particularly when done recurrently. Researchers found that fecal transplant is a safe and effective treatment option ...
Researchers developed a new tool to study the impact of spatial patterns on living cells, allowing them to control protein placement and study their behavior. The technique enabled them to test breast cancer cells and demonstrate the importance of cell adhesion molecules.
Researchers at Virginia Commonwealth University found that infiltration of white blood cells into expectant mothers' blood vessels may explain high blood pressure in pregnancy. This discovery could lead to novel treatments for preeclampsia, a leading cause of premature delivery and maternal mortality worldwide.
Researchers have developed a new technique using low-temperature plasmas to deactivate potentially harmful biomolecules, including those that can cause severe medical problems. The study's findings suggest that the effectiveness of this method may depend on the composition of the plasma.
Using ultra-short pulses of ultraviolet light, scientists increase the number of right-side-up antibodies in QCM sensors, more than doubling their sensitivity. This breakthrough opens up new possibilities for research using this type of sensor.
Researchers found that probiotics significantly reduce the incidence of antibiotic-associated diarrhea and Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea. Probiotic therapy has been shown to be effective in treating various GI conditions, including ulcerative colitis, psoriasis, and chronic fatigue syndrome.
Recent studies have shown fecal microbiota transplants to be effective in treating C. difficile and inflammatory bowel disease. Additionally, researchers found that cigarette smoking impairs pancreatic duct cell function, even after cessation, increasing the risk of colorectal cancer for women.
Researchers found that social relationships, both formal and informal, significantly influenced the effectiveness of conservation easements. The Malpai Borderlands project demonstrated the importance of tight personal relationships in achieving conservation goals.
A new study published in Perspectives on Psychological Science suggests that women's lower scores on technical aptitude tests may be due to biased testing methods rather than a lack of interest. The researcher found that women score lower on technical aptitude at all intelligence levels, while also exhibiting higher levels of general i...
A new mathematical model can detect financial bubbles in real-time using tick data and statistical techniques. The model estimates asset price volatility to determine if a bubble is forming, which can help prevent economic collapses.
A 2010 outbreak involving 13 NBA teams highlights the risk of norovirus among athletes and staff. Strict hygiene measures, including hand washing and disinfecting, can limit transmission and prevent illnesses.
Researchers discovered a bacterium that targets and kills specific pathogens, making it a potential living antibiotic. This 'vampire' bacteria can survive only by drawing nutrients from prey bacteria, killing them in the process.
Dr. Patrick Catalano received the March of Dimes Agnes Higgins Award for his research showing a link between maternal obesity and an increased risk of metabolic disorders in babies. His work highlights the importance of weight control early in pregnancy to protect children from chronic diseases.
Researchers at the University of Texas Health Science Center have discovered that old stem cells can be rejuvenated by being placed in a young microenvironment. This could lead to personal stem cell banks treating age-related diseases, with the potential for regular rescue and infusion.
Researchers at Mayo Clinic found that a two-hour focused training significantly increased the ability of physicians to detect precancerous polyps in the colon. The study suggests new educational methods could increase colorectal cancer detection rates and reduce cancer deaths.
A study of 100 migrants found that most sex workers choose their jobs for better pay and avoid menial employment, challenging the notion of forced trafficking
Researchers found that patients and staff continue to smoke on hospital grounds, citing safety issues and lack of support. Hospitals should reframe smoking as an addiction requiring treatment, not just a personal choice.
Research highlights social media's benefits and risks in delivering healthcare information to patients, particularly those with esophageal cancer and IBD. The Mayo Clinic's Facebook group for esophageal cancer survivors provides a supportive community, while YouTube content is often misleading and should be approached with caution.
Researchers have successfully modified polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) to make it nearly a million times more wear-resistant. They use atomic force microscopes and nanoparticles to study the effects of friction on wear and develop new materials to eliminate wear.
A study using the rubber hand illusion found that people with schizophrenia have a weakened sense of body ownership. This suggests that movement therapy could be helpful for these individuals, particularly those who experience out-of-body experiences. The findings also support the idea that exercise may reduce symptoms of schizophrenia.
A Carnegie Mellon University report found that commonly available internet privacy tools are ineffective for most people, as they often have serious usability flaws and confuse users. The report highlights the need for better user interfaces and feedback mechanisms to empower individuals to protect their online privacy.
Researchers have solved the long-standing mystery of Garrod's fourth inborn error of metabolism by identifying two different DCXR mutations linked to pentosuria in Ashkenazi Jews. This discovery sheds light on historical and geographical patterns of human genetic mutations, providing a new understanding of the condition.
A recent study published in the Journal of Foot and Ankle Research found that over-the-counter orthotics can significantly reduce plantar fascia strain, with an average reduction of 34% in 17 out of 20 subjects. This could lead to improved treatment options for people suffering from plantar fasciitis.
A team of researchers has elucidated the mechanics of the endocycle, a novel cell cycle that plays a crucial role in plant and animal growth. By studying genetic transcription factors and enzymes driving endocycling, the team discovered a molecular oscillator that controls cell growth rates.
Researchers used zinc oxide microwires to enhance the efficiency of LEDs by creating a piezoelectric potential that tunes charge transport and carrier injection. The devices showed significant improvement in emission intensity and injection current.
Researchers identified genes responsible for thousands of tiny changes in brain tissue DNA, finding they were active in areas linked to cell renewal. The study provides new insights into how the brain works and may link retrotransposon activity to brain diseases such as Alzheimer's.
A new study creates a comprehensive library of 178 kinase inhibitors targeting 300 enzymes, including those critical for cancer and other diseases. This library will aid researchers in developing cancer drugs that block specific kinases while minimizing side effects.
Patterns formed by a new DNA letter, 5-hydroxymethylcytosine (5-hmC), suggest it has specific functions in stem cells and brain. The study's findings indicate that 5-hmC may poise genes to be turned on after being repressed.
A large-scale community-randomized trial found that community counseling reduced TB prevalence and child infections by half, with costs under $1 per person per year. The ZAMSTAR project, funded by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, improved TB testing and service integration in communities.
Researchers at Gladstone Institutes discovered a protein form linked to Huntington's disease that influences symptom timing and severity. The study offers new avenues for treating not only Huntington's but also similar conditions like Alzheimer's and type 1 diabetes.
Researchers identified the orbitofrontal and anterior cingulate cortex as key players in impaired decision making, leading to addictive and compulsive behavior. The study's findings may pave the way for more targeted treatments for substance abuse and obsessive-compulsive disorders.
New formulas and methods have been developed to analyze across-wind loads and effects on super-tall buildings. These achievements have been adopted in national and local load codes and applied to the structural design of many actual super-tall buildings.
Researchers identify FMRP protein as key player in RNA editing, a process that regulates neural activity. Flies with mutated dFMR1 genes exhibit similar symptoms to humans with Fragile X, including memory and cognitive deficits.
University of Toronto researchers develop high-efficiency OLEDs on plastic, a less costly alternative to traditional glass-based manufacturing, enabling flexible form factors.
A team at Northwestern University has developed a new method to identify thousands of protein molecules quickly, which could lead to the discovery of biomarkers and early disease detection. The approach, known as top-down proteomics, measures proteins intact instead of breaking them down into smaller parts.
A large pad of fat cells in the abdomen provides nutrients that promote the spread and growth of ovarian cancer. Cancer cells reprogram their metabolism to thrive on lipids acquired from fat cells, leading to rapid tumor growth.
Research published in BMC Public Health found that commuting by car or public transport is associated with negative health effects compared to walking or cycling. The study of 21,000 people showed that longer journey times increased the risk of poor health outcomes.
A new project, 'Global Youth Leaders', empowers young people from deprived communities to connect with cultures outside their own through workshops and mentorship. The initiative aims to break down pre-conceived views and broaden knowledge and understanding among participants.
A large study found that exercise-related responses, such as oxygen desaturation and heart rate changes, are independent risk factors for severe altitude sickness. Taking acetazolamide can reduce some of these risks, particularly among young adults, women, and those with a history of migraine or previous high-altitude illnesses.
A collaborative study by the University of Melbourne and BGI sequenced the draft genome of Ascaris suum, a parasitic roundworm of pigs. The study provides a comprehensive resource to combat ascariasis and other nematodiases, with potential drug targets identified.
Researchers aim to evaluate the efficacy and cost-effectiveness of a peer-driven intervention to reach, test, and retain heterosexuals at high risk for HIV in their communities. The study will enroll 3400 participants over five years.
Climate change has contributed roughly half to the increase in Mediterranean winter droughts since 1902, with sea surface temperature patterns driving this relationship. The region's dry conditions are expected to worsen, threatening food security and water scarcity.
The Mayo Clinic has developed a new tool kit, Action Signs, to help identify symptoms of mental health disorders in youth. The toolkit aims to improve diagnosis and care for up to 75% of youth with mental health disorders who are currently not identified or receiving necessary treatment.
Researchers have found evidence that meninges, a membrane surrounding the central nervous system, contains self-renewing stem cells. This discovery may lead to new treatments for spinal cord injuries and degenerative brain disorders, as these stem cells can proliferate and form glial scars after injury.
The NYU College of Nursing is launching a five-year study to test and link care among injecting drug users (IDUs) in Kenya. The project will leverage the country's new needle syringe program to deliver rapid HIV testing, point-of-care CD4 count, and antiretroviral therapy (ART) adherence support.
Researchers chart gene expression in human brain from fetal development to aging, revealing coordinated changes that shape brain structure and function. The study found reversible gene expression changes after birth and during Alzheimer's disease, with distinct patterns of change at different life stages.
A new therapy uses folate receptors as a front door to deliver chemotherapeutic agents directly to cancer cells, improving effectiveness while reducing side effects. The strategy has shown a 72% improvement in progression-free survival for women with the most folate receptor overexpression.
A study of 50 overweight adults found that hormone levels influencing hunger changed after initial weight loss, leading to weight regain within a year. The research suggests that addressing hunger and considering pharmacotherapy or hormone manipulation may be key to preventing relapse.
A new study published in the Clinical Journal of the American Society Nephrology found that individuals over 70 years old can safely donate a kidney without compromising their health. The organs from these elderly donors last as long as those from younger deceased donors, but not as long as those from younger living donors.
Researchers have successfully measured dopamine release in a human brain, tracking its movement between brain cells while a subject makes decisions. The study provides preliminary evidence that dopamine can predict future market changes.