A new rapid test to diagnose melioidosis, a difficult infection to treat, is being optimized and tested by University of Nevada School of Medicine researcher David AuCoin. The test has shown encouraging results in regions where the disease is endemic, such as Thailand and Australia.
Researchers found a significantly lower risk of life-threatening side-effects in patients taking part in Phase I trials of new-style targeted cancer therapies. The study also identified characteristics that put patients at higher risk, such as being sicker when joining the trial.
Jon Camden, an assistant professor at the University of Tennessee, has received a $600,000 CAREER grant to support his research in surface nonlinear spectroscopy. The project aims to develop new analytical methods for detecting molecules on nanoparticles.
Scientists identified a key neural mechanism causing dyslexia, which can be traced back to a malfunction of the medial geniculate body. This discovery provides a foundation for developing potential treatments and compensating strategies for individuals with dyslexia.
A new method involves molecularly engineering a model synapse to precisely control GABA receptors, which is crucial in brain chemistry. Understanding how these receptors work can lead to creating safer drugs with fewer side effects for disorders like epilepsy and anxiety.
Researchers developed visual data mining software to detect subtle city-specific features in Google Street View images. The software identified unique elements such as cast-iron balconies in Paris and fire escapes in New York City, which can be used for computational geography tasks.
A pilot study found that phone calls with a 'stroke coach' can help patients understand their medication regimens, reduce depression, and improve overall health status. The coaching program resulted in higher knowledge of medications and stroke symptoms among participants compared to a control group.
Research on Alzheimer's disease is gaining momentum, with over 150 companies working on innovative approaches to tackle the debilitating disease. New therapies, such as Antisenilin and Gammagard, are in Phase III trials and show promise in addressing the underlying biology of the disease.
Researchers created composites with a loose structure that enables cells to colonize and form three-dimensional tissues. The fibers' spacing can be adjusted to align cells and direct tissue formation, mimicking the human meniscus.
A randomized controlled trial found that corticosteroids have no clinical benefit in treating acute sinusitis. Researchers from the Netherlands conducted a study involving 174 adults with clinically diagnosed acute rhinosinusitis and found that oral corticosteroids had no significant effect on facial pain or pressure.
A new disinfectant, Akwaton, has been shown to effectively destroy bacterial spores at extremely low concentrations. This is a significant improvement over existing chemical compounds that require higher concentrations and can be harmful to humans.
The Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania has been selected to lead a nationwide nurse-training initiative aimed at strengthening the nation's primary care workforce. The Graduate Nurse Education Demonstration will provide advanced training opportunities for hundreds of nurses over four years, increasing access to essential health...
A study published in Hepatology reports a promising new therapy for liver fibrosis, a scarring process associated with chronic liver disease that can lead to organ failure. The NADPH oxidase inhibitor GKT137831 was found to suppress fibrotic gene expression and prevent further fibrosis in mouse models.
A study analyzing malpractice claims in Australia found that doctors often fail to disclose significant risks to patients before treatment. The authors argue that this can lead to factual disagreements and disputes over informed consent, highlighting the need for improved communication between healthcare providers and patients.
A study of 2,625 participants with new diabetes found that those who were normal weight at diagnosis had higher rates of total and noncardiovascular mortality. The researchers suggest that genetic and metabolic factors may contribute to the findings, warranting further research.
Scientists are exploring ways to target cancer cells by attacking defective genes before protein production, leveraging micro RNAs (miRNAs) and their interactions with messenger RNAs. miR-7 and miR-128 affected pathways related to cell adhesion, EMT, and cellular replication in ovarian cancer cells.
Tropical Storm Haikui is heading towards landfall in southeastern China, bringing strong winds, flooding, and coastal erosion. The storm's size and shape are being monitored by NASA's Aqua satellite, which captured a detailed image of its ragged eye.
Researchers from Brown University and ATMI Inc. report the best-ever transparency and conductivity performance for an ITO made using a chemical solution, potentially offering a low-cost method for manufacturers. The team created conductive films with 93% transparency and comparable conductivity to glass plates.
A new X-ray imaging technique has produced dramatic three-dimensional images of gold nanocrystals, revealing their structure for the first time. The improved image quality will likely lead to a better understanding of nanomaterials' properties.
Researchers at Yale University have discovered that diseased trees in forests can produce massive amounts of methane, a potent greenhouse gas. The estimated emission rate from an upland site is equivalent to burning 40 gallons of gasoline per hectare of forest per year.
New research from the University of Michigan found that a 10-percentage-point increase in federal matching funds for Medicaid and CHIP is associated with an increase of 1.9 percent in the number of children enrolled in Medicaid nationwide. This translates to approximately 500,000 additional children gaining health insurance coverage.
A laboratory study conducted by Duke University psychologists found that the brains of humans, including radiologists and baggage screeners, evolved to solve foraging problems in similar ways. The researchers discovered that people with fewer targets to find gave up on a given screen sooner compared to those with more targets.
Lynn and Foster Friess are donating up to $100,000 to support ovarian cancer research at the Translational Genomics Research Institute. The challenge aims to advance cutting-edge genetic technology in pursuit of better cancer treatments.
A three-year grant will investigate how people trust and rely on automation in various daily contexts. The research aims to understand why some types of automation are trusted and used while others are not, particularly for an aging population.
A mobile HIV-testing clinic integrated with active tuberculosis case finding in underserviced areas of Cape Town demonstrated high feasibility, yield, and treatment success. The study found that the service was well-received by HIV-negative individuals with symptoms suggestive of TB, as well as all HIV-positive individuals.
New research found that many US children are not using age-appropriate safety restraints in cars, with minority groups facing higher risks. The study highlights the need for culturally specific programs to promote restraint use among minority children.
Researchers found a strain of dysentery-causing bacterium spreading rapidly from Europe to Australia and some developing countries. High levels of drug resistance in developed countries make transmission easier.
A novel method using immune cells has been shown to induce tolerance to specific proteins in mice, allowing them to tolerate gene therapy designed to deliver the protein. This approach may prevent rejection and improve the long-term success of gene therapies for various diseases.
A new UC Santa Barbara-based project will investigate contaminants in urban water environments, focusing on identifying threats to surface waters and groundwater. The research aims to determine how to mitigate these issues and develop cost-effective solutions.
Research finds that TRPM7 protein plays a critical role in breast cancer cell metastasis. High levels of TRPM7 expression are associated with poor patient outcomes and increased risk of distant metastases. The study suggests that targeting this protein could block metastasis, offering new therapeutic opportunities.
Tropical Storm 13W is weakening due to rising cloud top temperatures, according to NASA's infrared imagery. The storm's maximum sustained winds were near 35 knots on August 7, and it was moving northwest at 9 knots.
Researchers at UCF have discovered a non-chemical method to create identical nanoparticles of any size in large quantities. The technique relies on heat to break molten fibers into spherical droplets, resulting in particles that can hold multiple types of materials locked in place.
Researchers at NYU School of Medicine are enrolling patients in a clinical trial testing the use of worm eggs to relieve symptoms of ulcerative colitis. The trial aims to understand how worm eggs may improve symptoms by altering the lining of the intestine and changing the type of bacteria attached.
A University of Notre Dame researcher has made significant discoveries about the evolution of jaws in mammals. The study found that animals consuming harder, tougher foods tend to have a lesser degree of jaw fusion, while those eating softer, smaller foods do not.
A U-M study reveals that natural killer cells, a crucial part of the immune system, are not fully matured until adulthood. By blocking a specific cell signaling pathway, infants' immune systems can be boosted, potentially reducing their susceptibility to infections.
A study by Lawson Research Institute suggests that breast cancer stem cells have a preference for specific organs, such as the lung and brain, when spreading to other sites. Researchers hope to uncover the underlying factors driving this phenomenon and potentially develop new strategies to target these aggressive cells.
A study by University of Melbourne researchers found that doctors often fail to warn patients of risks affecting quality of life, particularly chronic pain and sexual dysfunction. To avoid 'he said/she said' disputes, keeping a clear record of consent discussions is key.
Scientists at RIKEN have observed a Higgs transition of north and south poles of electrons in a magnet, Yb2Ti2O7, transitioning from fractionalized to stable monopoles. This discovery has significant implications for spintronics, as it enables the creation of dissipationless current.
A survey of nearly 2,000 US and Canadian science teachers found that one out of four released live animals into the wild, posing a significant risk to invasive species. The study highlights the need for educators and biological supply house owners to be aware of the potential consequences of releasing non-native species.
A comprehensive review of the recent medical literature evaluates the potential for reducing HPV-related illness burden by expanding routine vaccination to include young males. The authors present their recommendations on the cost-effectiveness of male HPV vaccination, which could lead to significant public health benefits.
Tropical Storm Ernesto has its strongest thunderstorms on the eastern and northern sides of the storm. The area of strongest storms has expanded during the morning hours of August 7, wrapped around the center of circulation.
A Concordia University study explores how Christian pilgrims give souvenirs to spark interest in religion and perpetuate their faith. Pilgrims believe gifts can open a conversation with God, fulfilling their desire to pass down their faith.
Researchers reviewed clinical trials on calcium and vitamin D supplements for men with prostate cancer undergoing hormone therapy, finding that these supplements did not prevent bone loss. The study suggests that these supplements may actually increase the risk of cardiovascular disease and aggressive prostate cancer.
Research finds that men experiencing persistent sexual side effects while on finasteride have a high prevalence of depressive symptoms (11-36%) and suicidal thoughts (44%). Former finasteride users with these side effects are at risk for mental health issues.
A new clinical trial shows that drinking eight ounces of grapefruit juice daily can increase the levels of an anti-cancer drug called sirolimus in patients with incurable cancer. This combination could help patients avoid serious gastrointestinal side effects and reduce medication costs.
Researchers have identified thioredoxin-interacting protein (TXNIP) as a target for therapies in diabetes and Wolfram syndrome. The molecule is involved in the initiation of local inflammation that can lead to systemic inflammation.
Scientists have identified a new gene, RORA, linked to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), suggesting that it may play a role in the development of the condition. The study found a significant association between variations in the RORA gene and PTSD, highlighting a potential new avenue for research on how the brain responds to trauma.
A UCSF study reveals TXNIP's role in amplifying stress in the earliest stages of diabetes, leading to pancreatic cell death and insulin production loss. The molecule is central to the inflammatory process, making it a promising new drug target for preventing or stalling diabetes.
A new study from the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine found that greening vacant lots reduces violent crime and makes residents feel safer. Residents living near greened vacant lots reported feeling significantly safer than those near non-greened sites.
The GW School of Nursing has received a three-year grant worth nearly $1 million to diversify its nursing workforce. The program aims to recruit and retain more students from underrepresented groups, including people of color and those living in rural Virginia. To achieve this, the school will launch marketing and recruitment campaigns...
Research suggests that high working memory capacity enhances performance in mathematical problem-solving by facilitating focused attention. In contrast, excessive focus may hinder creative problem-solving due to the need for novel approaches and diverse information combinations.
The SingHealth Duke-NUS Scientific Congress recognized outstanding research in basic, translational, clinical, and health services and systems fields. The event honored researchers who presented breakthrough studies on post-surgical scarring, pre-eclampsia, virtual reality rehabilitation for stroke patients, and more.
Researchers at Michigan State University found that dividing tasks among individuals is efficient for multicellular life. They used digital organisms to demonstrate how task switching costs led to the evolution of division of labor, enabling complex tasks and dependent relationships.
Biotech Boulevard features companies making a mark on the global bioindustry through novel therapeutics and technologies. The microsite provides a platform for discovery, investment, and collaboration among these promising young companies.
A program with color-coded labels improved healthy food purchases among employees from diverse backgrounds, including reduced red item purchases and increased green item sales. The study found significant changes in beverage purchases, especially among black and low-income individuals.
A study by international researchers found that only one in seven authors involved in off-label marketing activities fully disclosed their conflict of interest in published articles. The analysis examined 26 whistleblower complaints and identified 91 doctors and scientists recorded as being involved, with 39 having authored publication...
Researchers at Wayne State University are searching for potential drug targets to treat Barth Syndrome, a rare genetic disorder that affects the heart muscle and energy metabolism. Led by Miriam L. Greenberg, the team hopes to identify new treatments by restoring the TCA cycle metabolites affected by cardiolipin deficiency.
A study of over 7000 children found that those with a healthy diet from six months to two years old had an IQ up to two points higher by age eight. Conversely, children fed junk foods during this period had IQs up to two points lower.
Two studies reveal new genetic mutations in GlyT2 gene that cause startle disease, characterized by exaggerated response to noise and touch. The mutations affect glycine signaling, leading to an abnormal startle response. Discoveries triple the number of known cases with these mutations.
New-onset diabetes in normal-weight adults is associated with significantly higher mortality rates compared to overweight/obese individuals. The study found that older adults and non-white participants are more likely to experience normal-weight diabetes, highlighting the need for targeted health screenings.
A recent study published in Nature found that many tropical protected areas are struggling to sustain their biodiversity, despite being our best hope for preserving tropical forests. However, the research also highlights the importance of eliminating threats outside park boundaries and maintaining existing parks.
Climate change expected to affect California's hydropower production, leading to reduced generation and revenue losses. The state may lose up to 20% of its hydropower generation under dry climate change, with high-elevation reservoirs struggling to store water for summer months.
Researchers at UC San Diego developed a method to model an organism's metabolism and gene expression simultaneously. The technology enables detailed calculations of the total cost of synthesizing chemicals, including biofuels, by accounting for material and energy requirements.
Scientists discovered that exposure to pathogens causes significant changes in a plant's epigenetic code, which helps the plant develop resistance. These epigenetic changes are linked to genes responsible for coordinating stress responses, suggesting the epigenome plays a role in disease resistance.
New research published in Addiction suggests that plain packaging of cigarettes can draw attention to health warnings and deter young smokers. The study found that students who were occasional or had tried smoking before paid more attention to the health warnings on plain packs.
A recent study found that average total cholesterol levels among US children and adolescents decreased between 1988-1994 and 2007-2010. Additionally, there was a decrease in prevalence of elevated non-HDL-C, LDL-C, and triglycerides among this age group.
A recent study reveals that historical cross-breeding of bison with domestic cattle has left a lasting genetic legacy in modern bison herds. The research, published in Conservation Biology, found that bison with a particular domestic cattle genetic trait were consistently smaller and lighter than those with true bison mitochondrial DNA.
African farmers face devastating losses due to cassava brown streak disease. Researchers have made progress in developing virus-resistant cassava using RNA interference technology, pointing towards improved cassava productivity and economic growth for the region.