Researchers have shown that gene therapy can induce the formation of extra sensory hair cells in young mice, but this approach has limitations in older animals. Introducing a specific gene called Atoh1 into the cochleae of young mice can produce electrical signals and connect with neurons.
A randomized trial found that highly targeted irradiation had equally good results as whole breast radiotherapy in early stage cancer, with a lower risk of adverse effects. The treatment reduced the rate of local recurrence by 0.8% and improved cosmetic outcomes by 18%, making it a potential game-changer for breast cancer patients.
A recent study published in PLOS ONE found that male adolescents have bacteria in their urinary tracts, which are similar to those found in young women. The researchers discovered that the types of bacteria on the penis differ from those in the urethra and that circumcision status affects bacterial composition.
A two-year study found that a high-fat diet improved glycaemic control and increased 'good' cholesterol in patients with Type 2 diabetes. The low-carbohydrate group experienced significant weight loss and reduced blood sugar levels, while the low-fat group showed minimal improvements despite similar weight loss.
A lack of basic evidence is hindering the prevention of sudden heart attacks in sports, with a need to track all incidents like Fabrice Muamba's on-pitch collapse. Reliable data collection and cooperation among sporting organisations are essential to mitigate risks and improve understanding of the condition.
A Penn study found that more than 75% of cardiac arrests occur outside the range of nearby automated external defibrillators (AEDs), highlighting the need for strategic placement and easy location. The study suggests innovative ways to help the public find AEDs in emergencies.
Researchers found that vitamin K2 can restore energy production in defective mitochondria, similar to those found in Parkinson's patients. This discovery offers potential treatment options for patients with the disease.
A Georgetown University Medical Center study found that phenobarbital stunts neuronal growth, leading to cognitive abnormalities in rats. The researchers suggest that anti-epilepsy drugs may not be as benign as thought and could have long-lasting impacts on brain function.
A UNC-led team discovers that lung cancer molecular subtypes correlate with distinct genetic alterations and patient response to therapy. The study refines their previous report on three molecular subtypes of non-small cell lung cancer, suggesting new avenues for targeted treatment.
Researchers found regional heart failure readmission rates vary widely due to availability of care and socioeconomics. Communities with higher rates have more physicians, hospital beds, and sicker populations, leading to increased readmissions among the elderly and poor.
Researchers at Rutgers University have discovered a new way to stimulate the activity of immune cell opiate receptors, leading to efficient tumor cell clearance. The study builds upon previous research showing that replenishing endorphins can prevent stress and immune problems in fetal alcohol-exposed test subjects.
A $373,256 grant will be used to re-curate and modernize the West Virginia Biological Survey Museum, which houses over 21,000 specimens. The project aims to preserve the nation's largest museum collection of mammals, amphibians, and reptiles from West Virginia.
A new maintenance therapy, lenalidomide, has been shown to improve outcomes for patients with newly diagnosed multiple myeloma who have undergone a stem cell transplant. The study found that patients treated with lenalidomide had a 59% chance of surviving free of disease progression after three years.
Researchers found a correlation between bed shortages and higher readmission rates, suggesting patients were discharged too early. The study recommends better planning and logistical solutions to prevent these problems.
Dr. Gregor Reid and his team will study the impact of probiotic yogurt on pregnant women and their children in Tanzania to investigate potential benefits for disease prevention. The project aims to understand how nutrition and bacteria can be passed from mothers to their children, a critical period for health development.
Researchers at Virginia Commonwealth University found that mild TBI can cause structural disruption of axons and alter neuronal firing patterns. This discovery advances research on posttraumatic disorders and enables better understanding of long-lasting neurological issues following a head injury.
The loss of elephants and rhinoceroses in tropical forests puts structural integrity at risk, while Asian tapirs are found inadequate for seed dispersal. The study highlights the importance of protecting megafauna and reintroducing them into areas where they have disappeared.
A groundbreaking study on manta ray migration patterns reveals feeding habitats and threats to the world's largest ray. The research found that manta rays spend most of their time in coastal areas with abundant zooplankton and fish eggs, but only 11.5% of locations occurred within marine protected areas.
Researchers are conducting two clinical trials to test the effectiveness of vitamin D and Imatinib in reducing asthma symptoms. Participants with mild to moderate asthma will receive vitamin D, while those with hard-to-control asthma will receive Imatinib.
A novel ambulatory cardiac monitor, Zio Patch, has been found to be effective in diagnosing irregular heart rhythms and preventing unnecessary follow-up care. The study showed that 59% of symptomatic patients did not have arrhythmia and may not require further work-up.
A study by UCI anthropologist Leo Chavez details experiences of young undocumented immigrants, finding they often become involved in campaigns to change the law due to societal perception as disposable. The study found that these individuals face social constraints, limited economic opportunities and lower levels of education compared ...
Researchers found that naked mole rats have a greater number of proteasomes and higher protein-disposal activity in liver cells, enabling them to maintain good health. The discovery provides insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying the animal's exceptional ability to resist aging.
Simulation training improved ER residents' leadership, problem-solving, and situational awareness skills. The study showed a sharpened overall performance in real-life emergency procedures.
Researchers from A*STAR identified the molecular switch Bruton's tyrosine kinase (BTK) that triggers innate immunity and activates potent virus killers, enabling effective responses to dengue and influenza viruses. The discovery paves the way for developing anti-viral drugs targeting BTK.
Research reveals racial disparities in pre-hospital care for black cardiac arrest victims, with lower rates of bystander CPR and defibrillation. The study also found that black patients were less likely to have regained their pulse before arrival at the hospital.
A new tool embedded in patients' electronic medical records helps reduce the use of CT scans among ER patients with abdominal pain, resulting in a 10% decrease in potentially unnecessary tests. The study found no increase in hospital admissions, suggesting the tool is effective in balancing diagnosis accuracy with patient safety.
Researchers found that almost half of patients with head and neck cancers had other health-related problems at the same time, affecting survival rates and quality of life. The analysis emphasizes the importance of taking a multidisciplinary approach to cancer in the elderly, considering co-morbidities when deciding on treatment.
A new technique called Deep Inspiration Breath Hold (DIBH) helps deliver the correct dose to the right place, sparing healthy tissue. The study found that treating patients during DIBH reduced the heart mean dose by 68% and lung radiation by 20-30%, offering a clinical benefit for breast cancer patients.
Researchers identified C5ORF42 as the gene causing Joubert Syndrome in French Canadian families in the Lower St. Lawrence region of Quebec. The study, published in The American Journal of Human Genetics, provides a genetic basis for the syndrome and allows family members to assess their children's genetic risks with a simple DNA test.
Researchers analyzed 100 intense North Atlantic storms, finding that around 30% had the potential to produce sting jets. These storms often originated from warmer latitudes, causing strong surface winds. The study highlights the need for improved forecasting and consideration of sting jet risks by insurance companies and policymakers.
The Map of Life project demonstrates a Web-based endeavor to show the distribution of all living plants and animals on the planet. The database contains hundreds of millions of records on species abundance and distribution, enhancing knowledge of biodiversity.
Researchers at the University of Cambridge have identified a protein called BMP8B that regulates brown fat activation in both brain and body tissues. Activating this protein may help support weight loss programs and prevent metabolic rate decrease.
A study of 163 patients with cervical cancer found that 3D image-guided adaptive brachytherapy (IGABT) achieved high rates of tumor control and low side effects, making hysterectomies unnecessary for most women. The technique was effective in controlling the return and spread of the disease, and overall survival was 84% after three years.
Direct-to-consumer genetic testing offers potential benefits but raises concerns about accuracy, interpretation, and sharing of results. Participants were willing to pay $10-$20 for the tests, but were hesitant due to costs ranging from $100 to $1,500.
Researchers at the University of Leicester have identified a cellular mechanism underlying tinnitus development after exposure to loud noises. The study suggests that specific potassium channels contribute to nerve cell over-activity, leading to constant noise sensation.
Scientists discover that the sun does not have a bow shock due to insufficient speed to create one in the tenuous region. The new data from IBEX and Voyager spacecraft indicates a strong external magnetic field influencing the heliosphere's structure, leading to a new paradigm.
Researchers discovered a causal link between chronic skin inflammation and cardiovascular disease, with aggressive reversal of psoriasis reducing the risk. A mouse model demonstrated that persistent inflammation leads to vessel wall inflammation and blood clot formation, which can increase stroke or heart attack risk.
Native gut bacteria help fend off invaders, suggesting ways to prevent or treat deadly forms of E. coli by selectively removing nutrients and boosting others. The study also identifies potential targets for prevention and treatment using antibiotics.
Scientists at Scripps Research Institute have discovered the first chemical compounds that inhibit PRMT1, an enzyme linked to asthma, arthritis, and certain cancers. The new inhibitors were identified using a selective screening technique that targets a specific amino acid found on PRMT1.
Scientists have identified the energy supplier ATP and its binding protein TssM, which drives the export of Hcp through two membranes into the environment. The discovery sheds light on the mechanism of the type VI secretion system, a previously unknown bacterial transport system.
A new study published in the Journal of Family Issues found that military marriages are not more vulnerable to divorce than civilian marriages. Despite frequent deployments and separations, the risk of divorce among military couples has remained constant since the conflicts in Afghanistan and Iraq began.
A University of Tennessee professor found that celebrities' political activity can make a party more or less likable, depending on voter perceptions. Research suggests celebrity endorsements affect public opinion by influencing people's views of the parties as 'brands'.
Nanotechnology researchers at the University of Michigan and the University of Connecticut have found a solution to the 'filling problem,' which can optimize cancer treatment, wireless network design and microchip manufacturing. The new approach uses a shape's skeleton to fill objects with discs of varying sizes.
A recent study funded by ESRC mapped London state school pupils' languages, revealing 60% speak English as first language and nearly 40% a minority language. Language spoken at home provides valuable insights into socio-economic position and culture.
A team of researchers found that seaweeds employ two distinct strategies to reduce drag: 'shape changers' fold and collapse, while 'area reducers' compress their fronds through branch reorientation. This study sheds light on the complex relationship between flexibility, size, and shape changes in seaweeds.
Researchers found tPA is safe for warfarin-treated stroke patients, with similar bleeding risks regardless of medication use. The study suggests tPA should not be withheld from these patients, as it minimizes brain damage and disability.
A $1.5 million gift from Motorola Solutions will create the Gregory Q. Brown Endowed Chair at Rutgers University's Department of Cell Biology and Neuroscience. The gift aims to find treatments for stroke, Alzheimer's disease, and dementia, as a tribute to Brown's mother, who suffers from dementia.
Research presented at the American Heart Association's Quality of Care and Outcomes Research Scientific Sessions 2012 found that home telemonitoring with pharmacist-led support improved blood pressure control in patients with uncontrolled high blood pressure. The study, which involved 450 patients, showed a significant reduction in blo...
Researchers at Thomas Jefferson University have identified potential new targets for PARP-1 inhibitors, which could lead to more effective cancer treatments. The study revealed specialized 'zinc finger' domains on the protein that can be inhibited without affecting other cellular functions.
A team of scientists has discovered an unseen planet orbiting a Sun-like star,KOI-872, by analyzing transit variations caused by the hidden object's gravity. The planet is estimated to be about the mass of Saturn and orbits its host star every 57 days.
Researchers at Yale University found that short- and long-term mortality decreased in all subgroups of age, sex, and race after mitral valve surgery. Despite this improvement, female and non-white patients still experienced higher mortality rates compared to male and white patients.
New evidence published in Cell reveals a novel budding mechanism capable of exporting large ribonucleoprotein particles from the nucleus to the cytoplasm, fundamentally changing our understanding of mRNA export from the nucleus. This study has implications for diseases such as muscular dystrophies and herpes-type infections.
Researchers found that long-lived species maintain higher levels of NRG-1 in their brains, with the naked mole rat having the highest levels. This discovery highlights the importance of protective mechanisms in determining species life span and has implications for aging research.
A study published in Neuron suggests that reducing excess brain activity may improve memory and interrupt disease progression in patients with cognitive impairment, a potential new therapeutic approach for Alzheimer's disease. The findings are consistent with research in animal models and suggest that elevated hippocampal activation co...
African-Americans with systemic scleroderma have more antibodies that link to severe complications and increased mortality compared to Caucasians. The study suggests using disease markers to screen and treat patients proactively.
A study by OU researcher Paul Branscum found that high-calorie snacks are the most accessible choice for kids, with females consuming more than males. The study also revealed that African-American children consumed fewer high-calorie snacks compared to Hispanic, Caucasian, and Asian children.
The study found that preventable infectious diseases were responsible for nearly two-thirds of global child under-5 deaths in 2010. Despite progress in reducing certain causes of death, such as pneumonia and measles, significant work remains to be done to meet international targets for improving child survival by 2015.
A new study reveals that obesity is associated with disrupted biological rhythms and social jetlag. The research found that individuals who are overweight or obese are at increased risk for serious metabolic diseases, such as diabetes, due to a lack of sleep and an irregular body-mass index (BMI). The study suggests that lifestyle fact...
A recent study published in Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology suggests that GERD-related inflammation may contribute to the development of esophageal cancer. Researchers analyzed data from over 33,000 patients with GERD and found a significant increase in esophageal cancer incidence among those with erosive reflux disease.
Researchers at Kansas State University are developing a self-adapting computer network that can detect and defend itself against cyber attacks. The 'moving-target defense' system randomly changes its configuration to make it difficult for hackers to identify vulnerabilities.