Researchers have identified a new species of prehistoric crocodile, nicknamed Shieldcroc, which is an ancestor of today's species. The discovery provides insight into the evolution of crocodiles and how humans can protect their environment to prevent extinction.
People living in poor neighborhoods are 42% more at risk of developing arthritis, according to a new study. The research found that socially disadvantaged areas had over 30% of residents reporting arthritis, compared to 18.5% in more affluent areas.
The new survey emphasizes the need for an integrated, multi-sectorial approach to address climate change's impact on India's water resources. It identifies key recommendations for policymakers, including developing 'low regret' policies and improving water databases.
New technique allows scientists to observe development of brain cells for first time, shedding light on disease mechanism. The study could lead to new treatment options by understanding how these cells develop and function.
Researchers at Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health conducted a case-control study to investigate the link between Borna disease virus and psychiatric illness. The study found no evidence of active or historical infection with BDV in patients with schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and major depressive disorder.
Dr. Rebekah Gee, Assistant Professor at LSUHSC, led a global initiative to address the lack of leadership training in medicine. The Inter Academy Medical Panel (IAMP) Young Physician Leaders program engaged young physicians from 18 countries, highlighting common challenges and opportunities across cultures.
A cross-sectional analysis found that strengthening mental health systems features can facilitate access to psychotropic medicines, while country development plays a different role in promoting affordability.
Researchers found that women's memories of unpleasant experiences are less accurate, while men's memories are enhanced by both arousal and low-valence conditions. Brain scans revealed differences in brain activity between men and women when recognizing pleasant pictures.
A new study found that daily diet soft drink consumption may be associated with a higher risk of vascular events, including stroke and heart attack. In contrast, regular soft drink consumption and moderate intake of diet soft drinks do not appear to increase the risk of these events.
Scientists have identified peptides on internal structures of influenza viruses that could provide immunity against all strains, including seasonal and pandemic flu. This breakthrough could lead to the development of a universal vaccine that activates T-cell immune responses.
Ryan Gilbert, assistant professor at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, receives a $500,000 NSF CAREER Award to create novel biomaterials that can reduce astrocyte reactivity and aid nerve regeneration after spinal cord injuries. The project aims to deliver therapies directly to the injury site to promote axon growth.
A new collection of articles in PLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases examines the use of genetically modified (GM) insects for controlling infectious diseases. The articles discuss technological advances, regulatory frameworks, and societal dialogue necessary for widespread application.
A study published in the American Journal of Perinatology found that women over 50 who undergo egg donation have similar rates of obstetrical complications as younger recipients. Despite concerns about increased risks, the research suggests thorough medical screening is essential for all pregnant women regardless of age.
Sigma-Tau Pharmaceuticals is sponsoring a Patient Assistance Program (PAP) to provide financial assistance for VSL#3 DS, a prescription-only double strength probiotic formulation, to eligible patients with ulcerative colitis or ileal pouch. The program aims to make it easier for those in need to access the probiotic medical food.
Researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital have defined a new genetic subtype of lung cancer driven by ROS1 gene rearrangements. Crizotinib treatment has shown promising results in controlling tumors in patients with this subtype, offering a new therapeutic option.
Repeated flexible sigmoidoscopy screenings increased the detection of colorectal cancer or advanced adenoma in participants by 26% and 34%, respectively. This improvement comes with a higher cost and increased need for diagnostic interventions.
The Global Burden of Disease project reveals a mismatch between the world's health issues and published research, with certain conditions disproportionately affecting low-income countries. PLoS Medicine editors emphasize the need for research on understudied risk factors like unmet contraception needs and illicit drug use to address gl...
A University of Michigan study found that pairing masks and hand washing can reduce flu-like symptoms by up to 75 percent. The research suggests that these measures should be used together for maximum effectiveness in preventing the spread of illness.
The Scripps Research Institute has proven the plausibility of a new pathway to life's essential sugars called the glyoxylate scenario, potentially pushing past the formose reaction hurdle. This alternative pathway, led by Ramanarayanan Krishnamurthy, reveals efficient conversion of DHF and glyoxylate to ketoses.
Researchers at RIKEN developed an automated sample preparation system for the HeliScope single molecule sequencer, reducing preparation time from 42 days to 8 days. The new system uses Cap Analysis of Gene Expression (CAGE) and yields reproducible results comparable to manual prep.
The phase III clinical trial shows that men treated with MDV3100 had a median survival of 18.4 months compared to 13.6 months for those receiving placebo, resulting in a 37% reduction in mortality risk. This breakthrough treatment tackles drug-resistant prostate cancer, providing new hope for patients.
A study by the University of Granada found that infants born to mothers who consumed more fish during pregnancy scored higher in verbal intelligence and fine motor skill tests, and presented increased prosocial behavior. Fish oil is a primary source of long-chain Omega-3 fatty acids, which are crucial for brain development.
Leading medical groups collaborate to ensure consistent and responsible use of transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) for patients with severe aortic stenosis. The consensus document outlines key recommendations for patient selection, team-based approach, and post-procedural care to optimize clinical outcomes.
Research from the Wellcome Trust Centre for Neuroimaging found that testosterone makes people act less cooperatively and more egocentrically in groups. The study used female volunteers who received either a testosterone or placebo supplement, and found that cooperation was reduced when given testosterone.
Researchers argue that focusing on small groups of households at high risk of malaria transmission is an efficient way to reduce transmission. This approach prioritizes the most infected and diseased households, benefiting the entire community.
Researchers have discovered that a gene mutation in autistic individuals leads to difficulties in processing auditory cues and paying spatial attention to sound. Treatment with rapamycin blocks hyperconnectivity triggered by PTEN gene loss.
Scientists develop ultrasound technology that uses 'Twinkling Artifact' to detect and treat kidney stones. The technology can push stones toward the exit of the kidney, avoiding surgery, and has potential for other medical applications.
A mutant protein in nearly all pancreatic cancers plays a role in its development and continued growth, according to a U-M study. Inactivating Kras eliminated tumors in mice, but left fibrous areas similar to scar tissue, suggesting possible treatment targets.
Research suggests that certain strains of Pseudomonas aeruginosa can trigger an allergic reaction in white blood cells, leading to increased histamine production and worsening inflammation. This discovery sheds light on a potential link between environmental bacteria and asthma.
A study in zebrafish reveals that a gene mutation affects ketone body transport, leading to lipid accumulation in the liver. This discovery provides new insights into nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and its link to energy metabolism.
The Massachusetts Life Sciences Center awarded Dana-Farber Cancer Institute a $10 million grant to support the expansion of its pioneering cancer imaging research program. The new facility will enable better diagnosis, targeted therapies, and improved patient outcomes.
The winning team, Real-time Care Experience Feedback Using QR Codes, developed an application to track patients' care experiences in real time. The project aims to provide access to evidence-based information and support meaningful engagement and decision-making for patients and clinicians.
Cyclone Iggy still has a lot of strength due to cold cloud tops around its center, with temperatures below -63°F (-52.7°C). The storm is expected to weaken as it encounters strong wind shear and cooler waters, potentially leading to dissipation before landfall.
A new tool developed by Sandia National Laboratories helps the nation's real estate industry with standardized appraisals of homes and businesses equipped with PV installations. The tool, PV ValueTM, uses real-time lending information and market fluctuations to determine the worth of a PV system.
A new study by Columbia Engineering estimates average annual energy use for every building in NYC, providing an interactive web map that shows energy type, purpose, and quantity. This information will enable building owners to compare their consumption with the average and explore possibilities of sharing resources and infrastructure.
Researchers found that longer carbon nanotubes emit more light at near-infrared wavelengths, while shorter tubes are dimmer due to imperfections. The study reveals insights into how growth methods and processing can improve nanotube fluorescence.
A new study published in Pain found that individuals retiring early due to back problems have significantly lower wealth accumulation and lower annuity values compared to those who retired for other health conditions. By age 65, only 75-85% of those out of the labor force due to back problems will have accumulated some wealth.
Researchers at Boston University have developed a unique material and drug delivery mechanism that can slow the release of anti-cancer drugs over months. The system uses a biocompatible, porous polymer material with air pockets to prevent immediate release in case of water flooding.
The IBEX team has analyzed samples of captured interstellar neutral atoms, providing insights into the formation of new stars, planets, and human beings. The findings also reveal that the solar system is still in a local interstellar cloud and will transition to a different region within a few thousand years.
Researchers found that cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET) is a significant predictor of mortality in patients after liver transplantation. The study showed that patients with higher fitness levels had lower mortality rates, making CPET a valuable tool for assessing liver transplant candidates.
The Urban Blast Tool uses pre-calculated pressure loads to predict damage patterns in surrounding areas, enabling first responders to prioritize their activities. The tool can calculate the initial blast loads in fine detail and store those results for later use.
A Cornell University study reveals that attending college lowers marriage chances for those from low-income backgrounds, but increases chances for those in higher social strata. Social and cultural factors, not just income, play a central role in marriage decisions, according to the research.
The current lung transplant system allocates organs based on proximity rather than medical urgency, resulting in sicker patients being left waiting. This can lead to a decrease in the overall benefits of transplantation and an increase in mortality rates for those most in need.
A study by Australian researchers found that heart failure is associated with a decline in people's mental processes and a loss of grey matter in the brain. This can lead to difficulties in remembering medication and carrying out instructions. The study suggests that simpler approaches to self-management may be required.
Research on the International Space Station aims to better understand fuel combustion and improve fire-fighting techniques in space. The experiments, led by Professor Forman Williams, investigated the behavior of fuels in different atmospheric conditions and pinpointed the limiting oxygen index for methanol and heptane.
Research from the 2012 Genitourinary Cancers Symposium highlights promising new therapies for prostate cancer, including vigorous exercise and targeted drugs that improve survival rates. The studies also compare existing treatments, such as radiation therapy and hormone therapy, to determine their effectiveness.
Researchers found significant variation in reexcision rates among surgeons and institutions, with some hospitals performing up to 70% more reexcisions than others. The study highlights the need for increased accountability and transparency in healthcare outcomes.
A study of 64,659 women found that only 173 received recommended breast screening MRI despite being at high enough risk. The researchers aim to understand the disconnect and assess the value, feasibility, and implementation of breast MRI screening.
A recent study using 30,000-year-old bison bones discovered in Canadian permafrost provides clues on animal adaptation to environmental changes. Researchers measured epigenetic modifications in extinct animals and populations, showing that it is possible to accurately measure these changes in ancient DNA.
A new antibody, OPN-305, has been discovered that blocks inflammation leading to transplant rejection in mice, suggesting its potential to improve survival outcomes for kidney and other organ transplants. The compound works by binding to toll-like receptors on transplant tissue and turning off signals that provoke inflammation.
Researchers at Cardiff Metropolitan University found that manuka honey can destroy fully-formed S. pyogenes biofilms in vitro and prevent initial bacterial binding to wound tissue. The study suggests that manuka honey may be effective in controlling chronic wounds by inhibiting biofilm formation.
Journalists Alexandra Witze and Jane Qiu win €2,500 Geosciences Communications Fellowship for book and climate change projects respectively. The EGU General Assembly invites all winners to attend in Vienna from April 22-27, 2012.
A team of researchers led by Michigan State University has discovered an overachieving plant enzyme that can work both day and night shifts. This enzyme, ATP synthase, was found to have a new function when one of its protein building blocks is changed, allowing it to transport energy in the roots at night.
A new study from Ohio State University finds that most political partisans don't avoid news sources with opposing views. In fact, those who visit partisan sites are more likely to also view opposition websites, suggesting a greater willingness to engage with diverse perspectives.
A new study reveals substantial differences in follow-up surgeries for women with breast cancer after partial mastectomy, which cannot be explained by medical or treatment history. The variation affects both cancer recurrence and overall survival rates, highlighting the need for increased accountability and transparency in healthcare.
The Department of Homeland Security's Science and Technology Directorate has published a series of guides to help buildings withstand extreme hazards, such as earthquakes, hurricanes, and terrorism. These resources provide architects, engineers, and building owners with the tools needed to design critical infrastructure that can absorb...
The study found that weightlessness affected over 200 genes and hypergravity altered the expression of 44 genes. The findings suggest that prolonged space flight should not be underestimated, as the effect of weightlessness on cellular processes can have significant impacts.
A new study found that norovirus was responsible for 18.2% of all infection outbreaks and 65% of ward closures in US hospitals during a two-year period. The study also revealed that medical/surgical units were the most common location of outbreak investigations, with an average duration of 58.4 days.
Researchers at UC Berkeley successfully decoded electrical activity in the brain's temporal lobe while listening to conversation, predicting words heard solely from temporal lobe activity. This breakthrough could enable reconstruction of imagined conversations for severely disabled individuals.
Fermilab is shifting focus from high-energy particle collisions to lower-energy interactions with intense beam intensities. Two neutrino experiments and Project X, a $1-2bn proton accelerator, are planned to explore rare decays and heavy nuclei.