A new study by 23andMe finds that combining family history with genetic testing provides the most accurate predictions for complex diseases. For highly common conditions like coronary artery disease, family history is essential, while genetic tests offer more value for less common diseases.
Tropical Storm Rafael is expected to bring heavy rainfall and flash flooding to the northern Leeward Islands, with isolated totals reaching up to 12 inches. The storm is also forecasted to impact Bermuda late on Tuesday, Oct. 16, prompting a Tropical Storm Watch for the island.
Researchers found that humans tend to alter language to make it clearer and more concise, striking a balance between effort and clarity. This bias towards efficiency acts as a filter, introducing common patterns across languages.
A systematic review of 8 case studies found the 'mother's kiss' technique to be an effective and safe method for removing foreign objects from young children's nasal passages. The technique involves a parent covering the child's mouth and blowing gently, which can dislodge the object without the need for invasive measures.
Researchers have developed a mathematical tool to assess the thermodynamic behavior of Mediterranean courtyards, finding that they can be up to 9°C cooler than outside in summer. This allows for energy-efficient designs without sacrificing sustainability.
Researchers propose innovative treatments for alcohol dependence, including motor rehabilitation to increase inhibitory control and environmental enrichment to reduce craving. These approaches aim to improve treatment outcomes and reduce the health and social costs associated with addiction.
A study published in Archives of Dermatology found that nearly 40% of participants in Germany had ever used a sunbed, with women being more likely to use them. The main motivations for tanning were relaxation and attractiveness, while the risk of skin cancer was significantly increased by sunbed use.
A study found that high beta amyloid plaque levels associated with Alzheimer's disease can lead to steeper memory decline in healthy older individuals. The research used PET brain scans and cognitive assessments to track participants over a year and a half, revealing a significant correlation between plaque accumulation and memory loss.
A study found that adding the prebiotic fructooligosacharide (FOS) to the diets of pediatric patients with intestinal failure can increase gut growth and function. The prebiotic converts into butyrate, a short-chain fatty acid that enhances nutrient digestion and absorption.
Nearly half of patients with chronic conditions don't follow prescribed medication regimens, increasing risk of side effects, hospitalizations, and reduced quality of life. Patients' beliefs about the causes of high blood pressure and treatment alternatives significantly affect their adherence to medications.
A study published in the Journal of Thoracic Oncology found that fit elderly patients with non-small cell lung cancer can benefit from salvage targeted therapy without increased toxicity. The study analyzed data from 255 patients and showed no difference in response rates or progression-free survival between age groups.
Boston Medical Center is implementing a two-year grant program to train healthcare providers in Massachusetts about incorporating screening and intervention for unhealthy alcohol and other drug use into their practices. The program aims to reduce risky behavior and promote early intervention and prevention strategies.
Researchers at the University of Missouri have developed a new gold nanoparticle treatment for prostate cancer that uses radioactive gold nanoparticles. The treatment has shown to be safe and effective in dogs, which are the only other mammal to naturally contract aggressive prostate cancer, making it a promising lead for human trials.
A new study on rats exposed to fuel similar to that of the Prestige tanker oil spill shows a direct link between respiratory exposure to compounds discharged by the fuel and damage to genetic material. The research suggests that people who carry out industrial cleaning of coasts or are involved in cleanup efforts may be at risk.
A new study suggests that social contact can lower pain responses and inflammation in mice with nerve damage. The study found that paired mice showed reduced signs of inflammation and allodynia behavior compared to isolated mice.
Researchers found that mice exposed to a drug that increases TSLP levels are protected from developing skin tumors. Elevated TSLP also triggers an immune response that targets and destroys cancer cells. The study suggests that hyper-vigilance of the immune system may have benefits in fighting off skin cancer.
Researchers developed a new radiation treatment method that reduces the risk of permanent neurocognitive damage in children with brain tumors. The study found that proton therapy and photon therapy techniques significantly decreased the risk of these adverse effects, potentially leading to better quality of life for affected children.
A new NYU study finds that fathers play a significant role in shaping their teenager's sexual behavior, despite being underrepresented in parent-based research. The study calls for more rigorous research and targeted interventions to support adolescent health and well-being.
Researchers at Iowa State University are using microbes to convert bio-oil from biomass into ethanol and lipids for biodiesel. The evolving bacteria and microalgae can tolerate higher concentrations of bio-oil, leading to a more efficient production process.
A recent study found that short-term sleep deprivation significantly decreases insulin sensitivity in fat cells, a key finding with implications for metabolic disorders. The researchers also discovered that regular sleep deprivation may lead to metabolic problems such as diabetes and obesity over time.
New research from UTHealth suggests that fat progenitor cells in obese individuals can fuel tumor growth by supporting blood vessel formation. This discovery has the potential to help prevent or slow down cancer progression.
Researchers from San Francisco State University found that puzzle interviews are perceived as unfair and unrelated to job skills. However, some students rated candidates better in puzzle interviews due to their poise and relatively decent answers.
Research reveals that the amount of protein in solution determines the formation of fibrils, which can lead to cell death. Developing treatments for diseases caused by protein aggregation is a possibility with this new knowledge.
Research from the University of Exeter found that soccer training significantly lowered blood pressure in middle-aged men with hypertension, improving exercise capacity and reducing body fat. The study suggests that regular soccer training can be a game-changing approach to managing cardiovascular disease risk.
Research suggests that pulmonary vaccine delivery can induce a local immune response more effectively than traditional injections, potentially combating pathogens that cause pulmonary diseases. The unique physiology of the respiratory tract makes it an attractive alternative to injections.
Hurricane Paul has strengthened into a hurricane with maximum sustained winds near 90 mph, posing a threat to Baja California with heavy rainfall expected between 2-4 inches. The National Hurricane Center warns of dangerous surf and tropical storm conditions along the coast by Oct 16.
eLife has published its first four research articles, describing groundbreaking discoveries in life science and biomedicine. These include a hormone that increases mouse lifespan and a critical signaling molecule involved in the evolution of multicellularity.
Archaeologists from the University of Leicester found King Richard III remains just inches below Victorian foundations, narrowly avoiding destruction. The team used DNA extracted from a descendant to verify the identity of the remains.
A study analyzing the International Mesothelioma Interest Group (IMIG) staging system for malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM) reveals areas for potential revision. The current system distinguishes among T and N categories, but qualitative T descriptors may not be applicable to clinical staging.
A new Ebola virus study demonstrates a proof-of-concept for using monoclonal antibodies to prevent lethal disease in rhesus macaques. The plant-based production method offers potential for an economical and effective medical countermeasure.
A study found that smoking in cars produces hazardous particulate matter levels, exceeding WHO guidelines, even with windows open or AC on. This exposure can harm child passengers' health due to faster breathing rates and less developed immune systems.
Biophysicists have discovered that the Ras protein forms an upright pair on the cell membrane, contradicting previous assumptions. This finding has significant implications for understanding cancer development and potential drug targets.
The report provides 29 specific recommendations for effective communication with older adults, including tips for optimizing interactions between health care professionals and older patients. It aims to encourage behaviors that consider the unique abilities and challenges of older adult patients.
Researchers found that the computerized checklist dramatically reduced venous thromboembolisms, with a nearly 90% drop in deep vein thrombosis rates. The system improved prophylaxis orders among patients without contraindications to low-dose blood thinners.
Research published in The FASEB Journal found that changes in gravity during animal development affect antibody production and white blood cell regeneration. This could have significant implications for understanding human diseases such as cancer and diabetes.
A recent study published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal found that cyclists who died from head injuries were three times more likely not to be wearing a helmet compared to those who died from other causes. The study analyzed data from 129 accidental cycling deaths in Ontario and concluded that wearing helmets can save lives.
A study published in the Journal of Thoracic Oncology found that VeriStrat can predict response to erlotinib, but does not provide a survival benefit. The test showed a significant difference in median survival between good and poor responders, with good responders experiencing longer survival on erlotinib.
New study reveals differences in how cocaine affects mother rats' brains compared to non-mother rats, with implications for human addiction treatment
A Kaiser Permanente study found no association between HPV vaccination and increased pregnancy, sexually transmitted infections, or contraceptive counseling among girls. The study included 1,398 girls ages 11-18 who received at least one dose of the vaccine, with only 8% diagnosed with an STI or having a positive pregnancy test.
University of Pennsylvania researchers have found a new way to prevent cracks in nanoparticle films by using a technique called spin-coating to create uniform coatings. This method could be a game-changer for industries that rely on these films, such as electronics and solar cells.
The Southeastern Universities Research Association (SURA) honored the Task Force for American Innovation with its 2012 Distinguished Friend of Science Award. The coalition was recognized for its efforts to strengthen the scientific and technical capabilities of the Southeast and nation, advocating for science, technology, and innovation.
Researchers at KIT have developed a method to control atomic tunneling frequencies in solids, using Josephson junctions. The technique allows for the direct measurement and manipulation of individual quantum systems, opening new possibilities for nanoelectronic components and materials science research.
Researchers at UCLA's Broad Center of Regenerative Medicine have discovered that the Trop2 protein promotes the self-renewal of cancer cells through a mechanism involving cleavage. This finding may lead to the development of new therapies that block Trop2 molecular signaling, stopping tumor growth in various epithelial malignancies.
A $276,000 grant will fund a national survey of 6,000 Pakistanis exploring the relationship between media consumption and beliefs on Islamist violence. The study aims to identify critical thinking skills among Pakistani communities.
A new study from the University of Tennessee confirms that solar wind is a source for water embedded in the lunar surface. The researchers found that most of the water in agglutinates comes from solar wind, making it a valuable resource with potential use as rocket fuel.
Researchers have made significant progress in developing new diagnostic tools and treatments for Alzheimer's disease. Changes in brain function can be detected years before symptoms appear, using PET scans, and a new antibody probe could lead to an early detection test.
The University of Michigan and 20 other U.S. and Canadian universities are launching the Great Lakes Futures Project to protect and restore the Great Lakes through science-based scenario analysis. The project aims to develop white papers outlining critical drivers of change in the basin over the past 50 years and the next 50 years.
Researchers discovered that MAPK and PKA coordinate their activity both spatially and temporally in memory formation. For short-term memories, only PKA is active, while for intermediate- and long-term memories, both molecules are involved with a specific spatiotemporal relationship.
Research from York University suggests that worker bees' genes are shuffled frequently, allowing natural selection to build a better bee. This genetic 'remix' enables the evolution of charismatic and cooperative behaviors in honey bees.
Emory researchers capture decoupling of rotation and movement in glass particles as they approach the glass state. The findings provide a key piece to understanding condensed matter physics.
Adolescents are more likely to take risks when consequences are unknown, rather than being attracted to danger. Informing adolescents about likelihoods can reduce risky behaviors.
Researchers found that daily exercise improves nerve regeneration in both males and females, requiring androgens like testosterone. The study's results provide a basis for developing future treatments tailored to men and women's needs.
The National Nanotechnology Applications and Career Knowledge Network (NACK Network) will continue its workforce development programs, addressing industry needs for skilled micro- and nanofabrication workers. The network aims to create pathways from high school to skilled manufacturing careers across the US.
A study published in Journal of Travel Research found that fearful flyers prioritize flight attributes like schedule and aircraft size over price, with a preference for home carriers. The research aimed to understand the decision-making process of anxious flyers and its implications for public agencies and the industry.
Patients who underwent weight loss surgery reported an initial decrease in substance use, but improvements were short-lived. By 24 months post-surgery, there was a significant increase in substance use, including drug use, alcohol consumption, and cigarette smoking.
A study published in The Lancet found that cancer resulted in the loss of nearly 170 million years of healthy life worldwide in 2008. This significant burden was largely attributed to colorectal, lung, breast, and prostate cancers, with men in eastern Europe facing the largest cancer burden.
New animal studies demonstrate potential for stem cell treatments in Parkinson's disease, head trauma and spinal cord injury-related heart problems. Scientists are making progress toward using stem cells to repair neurological damage and produce healthy neurons.
Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania have developed a method to generate structural color and superhydrophobicity in materials. By using holographic lithography and poor solvents, they can create 3D networks that produce bright colors and repel water.
State physician health programs help doctors with substance abuse problems, but their system is inconsistent and prone to potential conflicts of interest. The authors recommend increased oversight and national standards to address these concerns.
Researchers aim to improve protection against pneumonia with a higher dose of pneumococcal vaccine in older adults. The study, funded by the National Institutes of Health, will compare two dosages of a pneumococcal vaccine approved for children and adults.
Scientists at the University of York have discovered a protein called Ciz1 that is present in lung cancers, even in early stages. A simple blood test using this protein could help diagnose lung cancer without invasive procedures.
Researchers at the University of Chicago Medical Center discovered that not getting enough sleep has a harmful impact on fat cells, reducing their ability to respond to insulin. This finding suggests that sleep plays a crucial role in energy metabolism, comparable to its role in brain function.
A study by Wayne State University researchers found that Iraq war refugees who fled after the Gulf War were 43 times more likely to develop obstructive sleep apnea and later suffer from major chronic health issues. The research suggests a link between pre-Gulf War trauma, mental disorders, and increased risk of chronic diseases.
The University of Southampton has received a £300,000 grant to research and write the biography of Calouste Gulbenkian, a businessman, art collector, and philanthropist. The three-year project will provide extensive research and travel opportunities, shedding light on Gulbenkian's life and impact on the oil industry.
A new analysis suggests that brain size relative to body size is driven by different evolutionary mechanisms in different animals, with changes in body size often occurring independently of changes in brain size.
Tropical Cyclone Anais has strengthened over the weekend of Oct. 13-14, packing sustained winds near 100 knots. The storm is expected to move past La Reunion Island while weakening due to cooler waters and increased wind shear in the coming days.
Researchers identified a gene related to soybean resistance to nematodes also correlates with human diseases including lymphocytic leukemia, spina bifida, and cardiovascular disease. The discovery opens up new possibilities for breeding resistant varieties of soybeans.
A new study by University of Colorado Denver reveals that today's adolescents are abusing prescription pain medications at a rate 40 percent higher than previous generations. The prevalence of prescription pain medication abuse among the current generation of youth is higher than any generation ever measured, driven by factors such as ...
New research shows that climate negotiations based on critical temperature thresholds are doomed to fail because the threshold's value is determined by Nature and uncertain. Countries may propose collective targets but act less if there's scientific uncertainty about the climate threshold.
Long-term sick leave affects doctors' self-esteem and confidence, leading to a professional identity crisis. The authors advocate for cultural change in medical school to promote vulnerability recognition and better coping mechanisms.
A recent study published in Psychological Science found that attractive women are perceived as having more socially desirable personality traits, such as extraversion and conscientiousness. However, the researchers also discovered that attractive women's actual self-reported values differ from those of less attractive women, with attra...
Researchers discovered that inhibiting PDGFRB can prevent growth of this type of tumour, extending survival in mice and a human patient. The study found that imatinib treatment significantly improved the patient's prognosis.
A recent NIH study analyzed data from participants on reality TV show 'The Biggest Loser' to find that exercise plays a key role in reducing body fat while preserving muscle mass. Adopting moderate lifestyle changes, such as 20 minutes of daily vigorous exercise and a 20% calorie restriction, can help sustain weight loss and avoid weig...
A University of Cincinnati pilot study found that nodding wild onion and goldmoss sedum can survive and thrive on green roofs in the Southwest Ohio region. The research tested four Ohio native plants and one sedum under two conditions, with all plants receiving regular watering surviving.
Researchers have identified potential therapies for managing spinal cord injury aftereffects, including deep brain stimulation, electric pulses, and social contact. Studies suggest these methods can repair nervous system damage and reduce chronic health conditions, offering new hope for those affected by SCI.
New research reveals connections between adolescent brain development and emotional regulation, cognition, and social skills, highlighting potential vulnerabilities and opportunities for growth during the teen years.
A study published in PNAS found that tropical cyclones have been increasing in frequency since 1923, correlating with rising global temperatures. The research used monitoring stations along the Eastern Seaboard of the US to track changes in sea levels and storm surges.
Cold-induced sweetening in potatoes causes unwanted flavor changes and dark colors. Researchers found that suppressing invertase enzyme activity can enable cold storage without compromising chip or plant appearance. The study provides proof of concept for the importance of invertase in cold-induced sweetening.
A 33-year follow-up study found that men diagnosed with ADHD as children had 2.5 fewer years of schooling, lower occupational attainment, and poorer socioeconomic status. They also experienced more divorces, substance use disorders, and psychiatric hospitalizations compared to their counterparts without childhood ADHD.
Researchers used HARPES to investigate the bulk electronic structure of GaMnAs, finding evidence that two prevailing mechanisms co-exist to give rise to ferromagnetism. This breakthrough provides a better fundamental understanding of electronic interactions in dilute magnetic semiconductors.
A new review suggests that intensive treatment with high doses of certain statin drugs is usually the best approach for treating high cholesterol and other blood lipid problems. Increasing statin doses can reduce cardiovascular problems by up to 30% in patients who need them.
A University of Tennessee study suggests recent droughts may be the new normal, posing significant threats to the nation's forests. The researchers found that the US has experienced several mega-droughts in the last 1,000 years, and projections indicate worsening drought and increased tree mortality by 2050.
Dr. Rehan's research aims to understand the long-term impact of maternal smoking on childhood asthma, as well as its potential effects on future generations. Studies have shown that nicotine exposure during pregnancy can alter lung development and increase asthma risk.
A new analysis of computer-delivered and face-to-face interventions found that while both methods can curb college drinking for a little while, in-person encounters produce lasting results. Computer-delivered interventions had positive effects in the first few months but lost significance after 14 weeks.
The Preventing Preterm Birth initiative funds innovative strategies to discover biological mechanisms leading to preterm birth, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. The grants will advance discovery and translate research to action.
A systematic review and meta-analysis of 27 studies found a strong correlation between psoriasis and an increased risk of developing diabetes. Patients with severe psoriasis are nearly twice as likely to have diabetes compared to the general population.
A new study has shown that rapid and point-of-care hepatitis C tests are highly accurate and reliable, with accuracy rates ranging from 97 to 99%. These tests have the potential to transform global screening practices and improve treatment outcomes for millions of infected individuals worldwide.
Genomic medicine provides pharmacogenomic information to forecast therapy responses and genomic susceptibility testing to predict disease risks. However, this added knowledge may pressure patients to comply with doctors' recommendations and shift responsibility for health care decisions from doctor to patient.
Researchers have identified multiple genes that contribute to soybean resistance against the soybean cyst nematode, which causes hundreds of millions of dollars' worth of damage each year. By understanding how these genes interact and regulate expression, scientists may develop new methods for engineering artificial stronger resistance.
A Wake Forest Baptist researcher discovered that high levels of the MN1 gene accelerate Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML) and reduce chemotherapy's effectiveness. The study found that the p53 protein is not functioning properly in cells expressing high levels of MN1, leading to a poorer prognosis.
A study by UC Riverside criminologist Robert Nash Parker found that California's three-strikes law has done nothing to reduce the crime rate. Instead, a decline in alcohol consumption is the primary driver of the decreasing crime rate over the past 20 years.
A team of researchers found that when learning a new language, humans automatically organize words into sentences that are both clearly understood and efficient to communicate. Participants in the study added case markings to nouns precisely when it made the sentence clearer, indicating a universal principle guiding language structure.
Scientists from NC State University have developed a method to align carbon nanotubes in composite materials, resulting in significantly improved tensile strength, stiffness, and thermal conductivity. The new technique enables the creation of ultrastrong and multifunctional composites suitable for aerospace and sports applications.
The NIH plans to support 26 awards to accelerate the development and application of single cell analysis, enabling researchers to identify rare cell types and alterations in specific cells. The program aims to personalize health by understanding the link between cell variation, tissue function, and disease emergence.
Researchers from the Indiana University Kelley School of Business found that companies should only separate CEO and chair roles when there is a performance problem. The 'demotion strategy', which keeps the CEO but brings in an independent chair, was found to be the most corrective approach, reversing prior year's performance by 150%.
Research by Centre INRS–Institut Armand-Frappier and Centre de recherche du Centre hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal found a possible association between night work and increased risk of prostate, colon, lung, bladder, rectal, and pancreatic cancer. Exposure to light at night can disrupt the body's natural sleep-wake cycle.
Researchers discovered two compounds, IC87201 and ZL006, that disrupt nitrous oxide production in the brain, reducing fear responses in rats. The findings suggest that disrupting this process may offer a means of preventing long-term post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms.
Researchers discovered that interleukin-36 may be a useful therapeutic target in the treatment of psoriasis, finding that mice lacking this protein were protected from immune-mediated skin inflammation. Additionally, studies on hypertension revealed that endoplasmic reticulum stress in brain cells contributes to high blood pressure, an...
A randomized control trial found that School-Wide Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (SWPBIS) programs reduced children's aggressive behaviors, office discipline referrals, and improved emotional regulation. SWPBIS aimed to alter student behavior through universal expectations implemented across the school.
The NCAR-Wyoming Supercomputing Center has officially opened, launching a series of initial scientific projects on its flagship 1.5-petaflop supercomputer, Yellowstone. The center aims to improve predictions of natural hazards such as tornadoes and hurricanes through Earth science research.
A NIH study found a bacterial protein in common house dust may worsen allergic responses to indoor allergens, leading to asthma. Researchers discovered flagellin boosts allergic reactions in mice with asthma, suggesting cleaning could reduce symptoms by removing bacteria.
Compounded drugs lack FDA approval and may result in serious adverse events, highlighting the need for cautious prescribing decisions. Physicians should prioritize FDA-approved products over non-standard alternatives.
A new study reveals significant variation in the screening and surveillance of multidrug-resistant organisms (MDROs) in intensive care units (ICUs), with some hospitals neglecting commonsense medical precautions. The researchers found that only a small percentage of hospitals routinely screen for certain deadly MDROs, such as MRSA and ...
A large genetic replication study found compelling evidence that the chromosome 3p21.1 locus contains a common genetic risk for bipolar disorder, specifically the PBRM1 gene. This replication distinguishes the heritable risk for bipolar disorder and schizophrenia, contrasting with previous studies.
A study found that holidays like Christmas and Thanksgiving may reduce suicide attempts by poisoning, while New Year's Day sees a spike. The researchers suggest increased family or social support structures around holidays may play a role in this phenomenon.
Scientists at the University of Maryland School of Medicine created a stem cell model for Gaucher disease, allowing them to test potential therapies in a dish. The study uses genetically similar stem cells that react to drugs like patient cells, accelerating drug discovery and bringing hope to patients.
Facial mimicry plays a crucial role in deciphering ambiguous smiles, establishing power dynamics, and evoking emotions. The study also highlights the neurological basis of early interactions between parents and infants with cleft lip.
The USDA has awarded $4.8 million to 23 community-based organizations across the US to establish sustainable local food projects and improve access to affordable, healthy food for low-income residents. These grants aim to promote comprehensive strategies addressing local food, farm, and nutrition issues.
Tropical Storm Maria has a large area of moderate to heavy rainfall, with most rain occurring northeast of the storm's center. The TRMM satellite measured rainfall rates between 0.78-1.57 inches/hour and 2 inches/hour in a small area.
Researchers found that small genetic variations can accumulate and contribute to the risk of autism spectrum disorders. In families where only one child has ASD, 40% of the risk is inherited, rising to 60% in families with multiple affected children. These findings provide new insights into the genetic factors underlying ASD.
A study published in the Journal of Clinical Investigation found that mice lacking interleukin-36 (IL-36) were protected from psoriasis-like skin inflammation. This suggests that targeting IL-36 could be a promising approach for treating psoriasis.
A new housing program will provide stable housing, interdisciplinary support, and vocational services to at-risk families. The five-year program aims to keep families whole and intact, challenging traditional views of housing as a factor in family stability.
Typhoon Prapiroon exhibited strongest rainfall on its southeastern side, with a rate of 50 mm/2 inches per hour. The storm's vertical structure was revealed through data gathered from TRMM's Precipitation Radar.
Astrophysicists at the University of New Hampshire have created PREDICCS, a near-real-time tool predicting space radiation hazards. The system integrates numerical models, real-time measurements, and 'propagation codes' to provide accurate projections out to Mars.
A study found that rats who had intermittent access to alcohol exhibited cognitive impairment similar to established alcoholism after just a few months. The researchers linked this impairment to the activation of a small group of neurons that inhibit executive control functions in the prefrontal cortex.