Researchers used CT images and MRI data to reconstruct Phineas Gage's brain injury, finding widespread white matter damage. This study provides new insight into the neural network connectivity of Gage's brain, shedding light on his reported behavioral changes after the accident.
Researchers have discovered a way to identify genetic variants linked to postnatal depression, paving the way for a simple blood test. Women with specific genetic markers are more likely to develop postnatal depression, which can have significant effects on their mental health and children's development.
Researchers identify nine new genes that drive breast cancer development, highlighting the genetic diversity of the disease. The study provides insights into the consequences of this diversity and its implications for treatment.
The John Innes Centre receives Grand Challenges Explorations grant for a groundbreaking research project aimed at developing new ways of protecting crops from insects and associated diseases. The project, led by Dr Saskia Hogenhout, involves generating whitefly-resistant plants using RNAi molecules.
A new study analyzing 1,500 years of tree-ring data and fire-scar records from the Southwest US found that today's megafires are atypical and driven by a combination of modern climate change and human activities. The researchers suggest that changes in fire management could be a solution to mitigate these extreme fires.
Researchers discovered that 40% of LGL patients have a STAT3 mutation, which may aid in diagnosing and treating the disease. The mutation is also associated with an increased risk of rheumatoid arthritis, opening new avenues for understanding its pathogenesis.
The Stent for Life Initiative is driving equal access to primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PPCI) in Europe, reducing mortality and morbidity among acute coronary syndrome patients. PPCI rates are increasing across participating countries, with a focus on improving patient awareness and streamlining healthcare systems.
J. Elisenda Grigsby, a Boston College assistant professor, received a National Science Foundation (NSF) CAREER award to study the properties of 3- and 4-dimensional spaces relevant to fields like information technology and DNA research.
Recent studies using mendelian randomization have failed to support a causal association between higher concentrations of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol and lower risk of heart attack. Instead, findings suggest that raising HDL cholesterol may not uniformly reduce the risk of myocardial infarction in humans.
Researchers have revised the glioblastoma classification system to accommodate treatment advances and molecular markers, aiming to better identify patients requiring aggressive therapy. The new system incorporates clinical variables, molecular biomarkers, and tumor characteristics to provide a more relevant prognosis.
Researchers discovered a highly mineralized protective coating on freshwater crayfish teeth, made of calcium phosphate and amorphous calcium carbonate. This 'enamel' layer is remarkably similar to the enamel found in vertebrates, providing protection against wear and tear.
Humanist funerals in the UK prioritize reflecting the deceased person's character and worldviews, offering an alternative to traditional religious ceremonies. Dr. Matthew Engelke's research found that many non-religious individuals feel it essential to express their individuality through funeral choices.
A new study by University of South Florida researchers found that chlorothalonil kills a wide variety of freshwater organisms, including amphibians and aquatic plants, leading to ecosystem changes. The findings highlight the need to reassess the fungicide's safety and its impact on ecosystems.
Researchers investigated whether preoperative imaging differed between black and white women with breast cancer. They found no disparity in the use of imaging, contrary to some earlier studies. However, they did note that women from more educated areas were more likely to receive certain types of imaging.
A team from CREAF has analysed the ages of famous olive trees and found one that is 627 years old, much younger than previously thought. This study used classic dendrochronology methods and can also be useful for reconstructing climatic conditions.
The Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft has approved a new International Research Training Group to strengthen early career support for researchers in Germany. The program, focusing on arithmetic algebraic geometry and complex geometry, aims to combine expertise from Humboldt University of Berlin, Leiden University, and Amsterdam University.
A new study of 15 HDL-raising variants found no association with reduced heart attack risk, challenging the long-held assumption. The research uses genetic approaches to test biological hypotheses and highlights the value of human genetic information in understanding disease biology.
A new study in the Journal of Consumer Research found that men are generally more reluctant to try vegetarian products due to a metaphoric link between meat and masculinity. The authors discovered that people rated meat as more masculine than vegetables, and that male meat eaters were viewed as more masculine.
A phase 1 clinical trial of the drug crizotinib achieved remissions with minimal side effects for 10 children with lymphoma and neuroblastoma. The study showed great potential for targeted therapy in children with anaplastic large cell lymphoma, with some patients achieving complete responses.
Research from North Carolina State University finds that US and British children share similar risk factors for behavioral problems, such as health issues and family structure. Strong home environments are shown to decrease the likelihood of behavior problems in both countries.
Researchers will investigate Cu-64, a biomolecule that selectively seeks out a prostate tumor biomarker, to stage prostate cancers and detect recurrent disease accurately. The new technique involves PET scans and could significantly reduce the number of confirmation biopsies.
Researchers at the University of Southampton have discovered a unique volcanic process called fluidised spray granulation, which creates well-rounded particles containing diamond fragments. This process has significant implications for understanding eruption dynamics and constraints on vent conditions, particularly gas velocity.
A recent study recommends focusing on collecting animal samples from carcasses during Ebola outbreaks, with a 50% success rate compared to less than 6% when sampling live animals. This approach is crucial for early detection and learning more about the virus.
A new report shows that integrated heart failure services can reduce unwanted hospital deaths, allowing many patients to die at home. The study found that specialist nurses played a pivotal role in discussing end-of-life care with patients, enabling them to make plans and set their affairs in order.
A new study funded by the NIH found that the ApoE4 gene variant damages blood vessels in the brain, leading to increased risk of Alzheimer's disease. The researchers discovered that ApoE4 triggers an inflammatory reaction that weakens the blood-brain barrier, allowing harmful substances to enter the brain.
Researchers found that people who feel good about themselves are more likely to choose functional products over attractive ones. However, choosing highly aesthetic products can make people more open-minded and less prone to 'throwing good money after bad'.
A phase I/II clinical trial indicates that older patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia respond well to the experimental drug ibrutinib, which has few side effects and a high one-year survival rate. The study suggests that ibrutinib deserves further testing as a first-line therapy for elderly CLL patients.
A study has found that high-throughput sequencing can detect minimal residual disease in nearly double the number of leukemia patients as current gold standard method. This technology offers a greater chance of survival by predicting disease relapse sooner.
A study published in PLOS ONE found that college students can accurately judge others' sexual orientation based on facial features, with a higher accuracy rate for women's faces (65%). The researchers also discovered that gaydar is persistent even when the face is viewed upside down.
A study found that ACE2 is protective against diabetic complications in both lab models and human patients. High levels of ACE2 in vascular reparative cells prevent heart function decline and renal failure in diabetics.
A U-M study shows medical students have negative views of their future work lives as physicians, particularly primary care physicians. Students believe they have too much administrative work and are overwhelmed by patient needs.
Researchers have engineered algae to produce potential candidates for a vaccine that prevents malaria transmission. The use of algae to produce malaria proteins that elicited antibodies in laboratory mice and prevented transmission was published in PLoS ONE.
A study published in Science Translational Medicine found that daclizumab improved the survival of breast cancer patients taking a cancer vaccine by 30%, compared to those not taking daclizumab. The drug depletes regulatory T cells, allowing immune cells to fight tumors more effectively.
A new UCLA study finds that nerve-sparing surgical techniques and experienced surgeons can improve erectile function after prostate cancer surgery. Surgeons with at least 1,000 cases under their belt and those who actively seek improvement have better outcomes.
A new study by Oregon State University researchers reveals six major volcanic eruptions in Sumatra over the past 35,000 years, with explosive intensity comparable to Mount St. Helens' 1980 eruption. The findings highlight a potentially deadly natural phenomenon threatening residents of the region.
Dr. Elizabeth Osuch has received a $100,000 grant to improve diagnosis of bipolar disorder in youth through functional brain imaging. The average misdiagnosis often lasts 6-10 years and can lead to declining patient condition if treated with antidepressants.
A study by Loyola University Chicago Stritch School of Medicine found that only 15% of patients with low vision reported being recommended smartphones for their accessibility features. However, 24% of participants used smartphones, which can offer features like font size increase and GPS navigation to enhance quality of life.
A new MSU study highlights the nutritional benefits of canned fruits and vegetables, which are safer, healthier, and more convenient than fresh or frozen options. Canned foods can help Americans meet the IOM's Weight of the Nation recommendations, especially for those in food deserts.
A study published in PLOS ONE found that the use of polymyxins and tigecycline, considered 'drugs of last resort', increased at US Veterans Affairs medical centers between 2005 and 2010. The findings suggest a growing epidemic of multidrug-resistant bacteria.
A new study by University of Michigan researchers found that people are more likely to disclose sensitive information via text messages than in voice interviews. Texting also led to more precise answers, as respondents had less time pressure in an asynchronous mode.
A study published in Neurosurgery found that surgical and nonsurgical treatment for C2 fractures in older adults resulted in similar short- and long-term outcomes, including mortality rates and complication rates. The researchers analyzed the outcomes of 56 older adults treated for C2 fractures over a ten-year period.
Researchers are studying the genetic link to pre-eclampsia, aiming to predict and prevent the disease. By understanding which genes cause pre-eclampsia, it may be possible to improve treatment and provide additional ante-natal care for high-risk women.
Researchers from the Heliconius Genome Consortium sequenced the Postman butterfly's genome and found promiscuous sharing of large DNA regions among closely-related species. This study reveals how hybrids can introduce new genes that help populations adapt, changing our understanding of adaptation in evolution.
A new paper by Brown University researchers finds that African-American clergy are willing to join the fight against HIV by promoting testing, treatment, and social justice. The study highlights the importance of engaging clergy in HIV prevention efforts, particularly in addressing racial disparities in infection rates.
Researchers discovered that colorful butterflies share traits to enhance their survival, including a rich repertoire of genes for olfaction and chemosensation. This cross-breeding allows them to acquire superior wing colors more quickly than evolving from scratch.
A simple, low-cost checklist significantly improved adherence to essential childbirth care practices at a hospital in south India. The program increased the number of practices performed by healthcare workers from an average of 10 to 25 out of 29.
A UC Riverside-led team identifies black carbon and tropospheric ozone as the primary drivers of large-scale atmospheric circulation change in the Northern hemisphere tropics. The expansion of the tropical belt is projected to impact regional agriculture, economy, and society due to changes in precipitation patterns.
Researchers found that a genetic risk factor for Alzheimer's disease triggers a cascade of signaling that leads to leaky blood vessels and toxic substance entry into brain tissue. Blocking cyclophilin A or using the drug cyclosporine A reversed damage in mice, restoring blood flow and reducing toxic substance leakage.
Researchers from Mount Sinai presented several landmark studies on late-stage cancer treatment trends, a promising multiple myeloma vaccine, and predictive models of soft tissue sarcomas, prostate, and bladder cancer. The studies aimed to identify factors associated with lack of treatment and explore new treatments for various cancers.
Researchers have identified methylglyoxal as the culprit behind increased pain sensitivity in diabetics. The team proposes using small peptides to target and reduce MG activity, leading to a reduction in pain.
A new study by Yale School of Medicine researchers found that the US FDA generally approves drug therapies faster and earlier than its counterparts in Canada and Europe. On average, it took 322 days for the FDA to review a drug application, compared to 366 days for the European Medicines Agency and 393 days for Health Canada.
Children in both US and Great Britain face similar risk factors for behavioral problems, including male children, health issues, and divorced mothers. Strong home environments with nurturing and safe conditions decrease the likelihood of behavior problems in both countries.
Researchers found that participants rated celebrity-morphed images as more trustworthy than control faces, suggesting a subconscious effect of familiarity. The study suggests that automatic perceptions of familiarity may have greater influence on consumer behavior than physical attractiveness.
A WPI research team will conduct fire testing on a five-story building after simulating earthquakes on the nation's largest outdoor shake table. The goal is to gather data that will help engineers design better fire protection systems and provide safer buildings for people and property.
A University of Michigan study found that discarding unused medications in trash is a more environmentally friendly option than taking back programs. The researchers compared emissions from three disposal methods and concluded that landfilling was the best option due to its lower environmental impact.
A new study reconstructed Australasian temperatures over the last millennium using natural climate records, revealing no warmer periods since 1950. The results support human-caused climate change as the primary driver of recent warming in the region.
A new initiative by the University of Southampton highlights the crucial role mothers play in teaching children about their minority heritage. The study found that mothers from mixed families are responsible for introducing their children to traditional foods, clothes, music, and dancing, ensuring their cultural identity is maintained.
Critically endangered leatherback turtles show distinct travel modes in the North Atlantic and Eastern Pacific, with varying speeds associated with foraging and transit. The study suggests that Pacific turtles struggle to achieve high foraging success, hindering their population recovery compared to Atlantic turtles.
A phase I clinical trial combining temsirolimus and capecitabine demonstrates promising evidence of disease control in advanced malignancies. The study shows that the combination can be given safely to patients, with a positive survival trend observed.
At the 2012 International Meeting for Autism Research (IMFAR), Autism Speaks presented various scientific findings on autism diagnosis, causes, and treatment options. The organization's Autism Treatment Network shared research on early interventions and technology innovations aimed at improving the lives of individuals with ASD.