A new study identifies osteopontin as a potential new leukemia treatment target. The protein helps leukemia cells avoid the effects of chemotherapy by appearing dormant in the bone marrow environment.
A Penn study found nearly one quarter of patients may return to the emergency department within 30 days of being discharged from a hospitalization. Congestive heart failure was the primary diagnosis for these return visits, with other diagnoses varying in subsequent rehospitalizations.
A study in Australia found routine screening and counselling for partner violence did not improve women's quality of life, safety planning or mental health. However, counselling reduced depressive symptoms and trained doctors had more safety discussions with women.
A study analyzing emergency admissions for asthma among adults in England found a significant annual 5% drop following the introduction of the country's smoking ban in 2007. The study, published in Thorax, confirms the value of public health interventions and attributes the association to reduced secondhand smoke exposure.
Researchers have identified the molecular mechanisms behind two rare diseases: giant axonal neuropathy and ovarian cancer. In GAN, mutations in gigaxonin disrupt neural protein degradation, leading to neurofilament accumulation. Meanwhile, ATP11B facilitates cisplatin resistance in ovarian cancer cells by mediating platinum export.
Researchers at the University of Helsinki discovered that the Myc oncoprotein makes cancer cells vulnerable to cell death by activating AMPK, a biochemical sensor. This leads to the activation of tumor suppressor protein p53, which promotes apoptosis in cancer cells.
A mathematical model developed by Yale researchers predicts that combining multiple interventions could prevent up to two-thirds of future HIV infections and reduce prevalence from 19% to 10% in 10 years. The study suggests increasing male circumcision, more frequent screening, and antiretroviral therapy as the most effective strategies.
Researchers found that two global warming mechanisms complement each other to shape seasonal rainfall in the tropics. The wet-gets-wetter mechanism predicts increased rainfall in already wet regions, while the warmer-gets-wetter mechanism suggests increased rainfall in regions with rising sea surface temperatures.
A groundbreaking study, funded by £2m from the National Institute for Health Research, will examine ways to improve service user and carer involvement in decisions about their care. The research aims to develop a training package for mental health professionals and test its effectiveness in improving care planning.
The University of Texas at Arlington's Mathematics Department has been recognized for its successful diversity initiatives, including a growing doctoral program that reflects the nation's demographics. The department's emphasis on students, community outreach, and research has earned it an American Mathematical Society award.
Researchers found that premature babies with abnormal gut bacteria are at risk of necrotizing enterocolitis. The study identified specific bacteria, including Firmicutes and Enterobacteriaceae, that can be detected through a simple urine test.
A new study found that computer-assisted detection (CAD) in mammograms improves the detection of noninvasive and early-stage invasive breast cancer, but also makes more mistakes. CAD was associated with higher rates of ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) diagnoses and increased diagnostic testing among women without breast cancer.
A study by the University of Illinois Chicago and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs found that individualized care leads to better health outcomes. The researchers used concealed audio recorders to collect data on doctors' behavior, revealing that contextual factors have a significant impact on patient care.
Researchers found that laser-assisted lipolysis can reduce fat bulk and tighten skin, providing a more effective alternative to traditional liposuction. The minimally invasive treatment uses targeted energy to melt fat without affecting surrounding tissue, resulting in faster recovery times and improved results.
The Nebraska Conference for Undergraduate Women in Mathematics has been a life-changing experience for over 2,600 women undergraduates since its founding in 1999. The conference boosts participants' self-confidence and sense of community through carefully planned activities.
Researchers discovered three new species of carnivorous snails in Thailand's limestone areas, highlighting the importance of conservation efforts. The study found that despite human exploitation and quarrying, these unique creatures continue to thrive in specific mountain ranges.
Researchers at the University of Illinois Chicago have found that a unique modification to microtubules in neurons makes their cytoskeleton singularly robust. This discovery may help guide the search for treatments for neurodegenerative diseases.
Despite concerns over high vitamin E intake, a new review concludes that the body can eliminate excess levels of the vitamin, making it impossible to take a harmful amount. Vitamin E is essential for proper organ function and has antioxidant properties.
A minimally invasive treatment reduces blood flow to the prostate, shrinking it and providing a larger passageway for urine. The study shows promising results with significant symptom relief in 92% of patients after one month, with no major complications.
The Melanoma Research Alliance has awarded $9.6 million to 49 scientists at 26 institutions globally, focusing on accelerating treatment approaches for metastatic melanoma and understanding its initiation. The grants bring the total MRA funding to almost $48 million.
A new study found significant variability in sepsis incidence rates depending on the method used, with a 3.5-fold difference between methods. This discrepancy limits efforts to improve treatment for sepsis, highlighting the need for uniform definitions and universal measurement of outcomes.
Researchers discovered that high cholesterol levels can cause defective cell division, leading to Alzheimer's disease and atherosclerosis. Cholesterol disrupts the process of cell division, resulting in cells with incorrect numbers of chromosomes and genes.
Researchers at Uppsala University found that green algae can produce hydrogen gas directly from sunlight, with up to 80% of the energy absorbed by Photosystem II going into production. This discovery changes the view on hydrogen production in green algae and offers hope for efficient renewable energy source.
Researchers at IRCM identified the DOCK1 protein as a key regulator of metastasis in breast cancer. The study found that eliminating DOCK1 in mice resulted in a significant decrease in lung metastases and tumor growth.
A large study found that high serum C-peptide levels are linked to an increased risk of death from all causes and cardiovascular disease. People with high C-peptide levels had a 1.8- to 3.2-fold increased risk compared to those with low levels.
Researchers identified an eight-gene signature that correlates with chemotherapy outcome in lung and breast cancer patients. The gene signature, which includes the receptor for growth factor EGF, helps predict relapse-free survival after chemotherapy.
A new study found that pianists' performance improved after practicing a new melody followed by a night of sleep. However, gains in speed and accuracy declined when two similar melodies were practiced one after the other before sleep. Replaying the first melody before sleep seemed to counteract this interference and enhance skills.
Researchers from various disciplines are collaborating on a four-year project to encourage vacationers to use advanced sun protection behaviors. The program, launched at 40 resorts nationwide, aims to reduce skin cancer cases through education and awareness.
A national study published in PNAS found that US science faculty with education specialties have varying levels of formal training in science education, but are more likely to receive grant money at Ph.D.-granting institutions. Despite this, there is an intriguing disconnect between training and funding outcomes for these faculty members.
A review of published research found no evidence that drugs, herbal products, or vitamin supplements can prevent cognitive decline in healthy older adults. However, mental exercises such as computerized memory training programs and intensive one-on-one personal cognitive training showed promise.
Researchers at the University of Missouri found that propranolol improves working memory performance in people with Autism Spectrum Disorder. The study showed significant improvements in working memory abilities, particularly in those who already take the medication for anxiety.
A team of international researchers led by University of Rhode Island Professor Christopher Kincaid found that severely deformed and defunct pieces of a former mantle plume caused volcanism in the Yellowstone area. The study suggests that circulation currents driven by tectonic plate movement at subduction zones affected the plume, pro...
A new study shows stent grafts can successfully keep dialysis access sites open using tiny scaffolds for far longer than previously reported, reducing the need for invasive treatments and improving patients' quality of life.
Giant axonal neuropathy is caused by mutations in the gigaxonin gene, leading to accumulation of neurofilament proteins. The study shows that gigaxonin regulates neurofilament protein degradation, shedding light on the molecular pathology of GAN.
Researchers from the University of Vienna have closed a loophole for photons, providing definitive experimental proof that quantum particles can exhibit non-classical behavior. The study uses entangled photon pairs and advanced detection technology to rule out possible explanations for previous results.
A study at Princeton University suggests that erroneous decisions arise from errors in external information rather than brain processing. The researchers created computer models to analyze the brain's decision-making process and found that internal mental processes are remarkably reliable.
Women with sufficient vitamin D levels had a 32% lower risk of developing fibroids, according to the NIH study. The research also found that spending more time outdoors was associated with a decreased risk of fibroids.
Nepal and India experience widespread agricultural fires, burning in the April 13, 2013 image from NASA's MODIS satellite. The Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) detected actively burning areas, which are outlined in red.
Researchers from North Carolina State University have created a 3D model of an enzyme that links glucose to cellulose, a crucial component of plant cell walls. The breakthrough could enable genetic engineering of plants and trees for improved fibers or wood strength.
A team led by UNC Charlotte researcher Deborah Strumsky is forecasting optimal energy investments using novel methods from network theory, performance curve analysis, and ecological systems. The project aims to provide a detailed picture of the solar technology ecosystem, influencing technological progress and informing policy decisions.
A cup of beetroot juice a day reduced systolic and diastolic blood pressure by about 10 mm Hg in participants. Increasing dietary nitrate intake through vegetables like beets may be an accessible way to manage blood pressure, researchers suggest.
A new study finds that using a non-focused standard trauma CT protocol can result in hundreds of unnecessary CT examinations. The study suggests that imaging should be dictated by patient history and physical examination findings to reduce CT utilization, imaging costs, and radiation dose by at least 50%
A type of marine algae, Emiliania huxleyi, has been found to be resilient to ocean acidification under high CO2 levels. Although cells grew more slowly under the high CO2 scenario, they did not dissolve away and possessed more calcite, suggesting some ability to tolerate future CO2 scenarios.
Researchers at the La Jolla Institute discovered that T cells contribute to host protection against dengue virus infection, contradicting current scientific understanding. This finding may lead to a new approach in dengue vaccine design, potentially improving its effectiveness against the deadly disease.
Researchers at Stanford University School of Medicine have successfully transformed skin cells directly into oligodendrocyte precursor cells, which can insulate neurons. This breakthrough could lead to cell therapies for diseases like multiple sclerosis and spinal cord injuries.
A new study found that training individuals on a working-memory task can improve their performance on various cognitive tasks, including problem-solving and attentional control. The training exercise increased connectivity between specific brain areas, particularly the parietal and frontal brain regions.
A study by University of Utah researchers found that cities with strong urban cores have the most positive effect on social interaction. Decentralization has a negative impact on socializing, 10 times more than fragmentation and 20 times longer commute times.
A review of 32 randomized controlled trials suggests that mental exercise, such as computerized training programs or intensive one-on-one personal cognitive training, may benefit older adults in preventing cognitive decline. The annual rate of dementia-related cognitive decline is estimated to double to over 1 million Canadians by 2047.
A new study warns that inadequate funding for disease resistance research could lead to the spread of deadly Ug99 stem rust, threatening millions with affordable access to food. The University of Minnesota estimates that $51 million a year is needed to combat the disease.
Researchers at UCSF discovered that long noncoding RNA molecules, once considered 'junk', are involved in brain development and may contribute to neurodegenerative diseases. The study identified 88 lncRNAs associated with Huntington's disease and found weaker associations with Alzheimer's and other conditions.
A University of Michigan study examines how community size affects interracial friendships and found that larger groups discourage such relationships. Researchers tested a theoretical model using data from 4,745 US high school students, revealing the impact of group size on friendship formation.
Pulmonary fibrosis is a condition where lung tissue becomes thickened and scarred, with no approved drugs for its most common form. A new study found that genetic variation accounts for approximately one-third of the risk, identifying seven novel genetic risk loci involved in host defense, cell-cell adhesion, and DNA repair.
A CU-Boulder study found that people reported higher levels of happiness as they reported higher sexual frequency, but also believed their peers were having less sex than them. This 'relative aspect' of sex frequency increases happiness, suggesting social comparisons play a role in the relationship between sex and happiness.
A study published in Microbiome identified two distinct microbial imbalances in the digestive tract that precede necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) in preterm infants. The findings suggest a predictive value of over 80% for NEC using a simple urine analysis.
Researchers at UCLA have classified kidney cancer into several unique subtypes, which will aid in tailoring treatment to individual patients. The study, conducted over 10 years, identified deletions of chromosomes 3p and 14q in clear cell renal carcinoma tumors, associated with improved survival rates for some patients.
A new study has found that adding a photo of a patient's face to their x-ray images can significantly reduce wrong-patient errors. The study showed that radiologists correctly identified mismatched pairs with photographs, with an error detection rate of 64%, compared to 13% without photos.
Researchers have synthesized a material that shows high capability for storing energy, enabling rapid charging of devices. The new material could provide rapid power to small devices and large industrial equipment.
A new study by Ed O'Brien found that people tend to 'explain away' the presence of bad possibilities, thinking they won't occur, but struggle more with recalling positive experiences. This finding has implications for how we think about happiness and well-being.
Scientists discovered that the body's adaptation mechanism allows the cochlea to perform normally when exposed to noise stress. Constant exposure to loud noise can cause irreversible damage to high frequency hearing.
Researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital identified a genetic signature associated with the risk of tumor recurrence or spread in men surgically treated for prostate cancer. The 32-gene index proved to be the most accurate method, predicting actual incidence of tumor recurrence (47%) and metastasis (14%) among high-risk patients.
Cyclone Imelda's eye appeared clearly on visible imagery from NASA's Aqua satellite on April 14, but closed by April 15 due to cloud coverage. The storm was also elongated from west to east, with weakening convection around its low-level center.
Research suggests that fainting, also known as vasovagal syncope, may have a genetic component, with some families affected by multiple genes. Triggers such as emotional distress, pain, and frightening thoughts vary greatly within families, but the study found no link between triggers and genetic inheritance.
Researchers have developed a new solid form of bioactive plasma-based biomaterials that can promote healing at sites of tissue injury. These materials, known as PBMs, are easier to work with, inexpensive to produce, and safe to use.
A high resting heart rate is associated with a higher risk of death, regardless of physical fitness level. Men with heart rates between 51-80 beats per minute had a 40-50% increased risk of death compared to those with lower rates.
Researchers have linked autism in a mouse model to abnormalities in specific chromosomal regions and associated genes. The study provides new insights into the disease's causes and may lead to the development of new treatments.
The study suggests 12 principles for effective contraceptive counseling, including establishing expertise and trustworthiness with adolescents and using active learning strategies to engage patients. These principles aim to address the unique developmental needs of adolescents in healthcare settings.
A study found that ATP11B expression is correlated with higher tumor grade and cisplatin-resistance in human ovarian cancer samples. Loss of ATP11B restored sensitivity to cisplatin and reduced ovarian tumor growth in mice.
A new smartphone app, My Meal Mate, has been shown to be effective in helping users track their food intake and exercise for weight loss. The app resulted in an average weight loss of 4.6kg (10lbs) over six months, compared to 2.9kg (6.5lbs) and 1.3kg (3lbs) with a paper-based diary and online diary, respectively.
A study by Indiana University researchers found that tasting beer without alcohol stimulates dopamine release in the brain, associated with drinking and other drug abuse. Participants with a family history of alcoholism showed increased responses, suggesting an inherited risk factor for alcoholism.
FitzGerald shared the prize with Carlo Patrono for developing low-dose aspirin to prevent cardiovascular disease. The breakthrough work assessed prostaglandins' role in blood clotting and saved millions of lives worldwide.
The American College of Physicians recommends high-risk women receive preventive drug therapy to reduce risk of primary breast cancer. CT scans can also be used to screen for osteoporosis at lower costs without additional radiation exposure. However, using computer-aided detection in mammography increases diagnosis of early stage cance...
A study found that electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) can improve the quality of life for severely depressed patients who go into remission. However, patients may experience challenges with social function and emotional role after treatment.
Researchers at UCLA have developed a potentially more effective treatment for triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) using nanoscale, diamond-like particles called nanodiamonds. The new compound has been shown to decrease tumor growth and eliminate side effects of cancer treatment in mice.
Peihua Jiang, a molecular neurobiologist at Monell Chemical Senses Center, has been awarded the Ajinomoto Award for his groundbreaking work on taste stem cells. His research has identified previously elusive adult taste stem cells and implications for patients with loss of taste function.
Researchers have decoded the platyfish genome, revealing insights into cancer development and complex behaviors. The study found altered genes involved in live-bearing birth and unique molecular changes, shedding light on the evolution of these traits.
Researchers found that at least three fungi cause horseradish disease: Verticillium dahlia, V. longisporum, and Fusarium solani. However, new species F. commune has been linked to the condition, with 83% of infected roots developing root rot. Growers can use IPM techniques to manage the disease.
A study at Johns Hopkins Hospital found that providing physicians with upfront price transparency for laboratory tests resulted in a 9% decrease in test orders and significant cost savings. The practice decreased overall use of tests, saving hundreds of thousands of dollars over six months.
Research from North Carolina State University suggests that invasive kudzu bugs can spread beyond the southern United States to other parts of the country where soybeans are grown. This could lead to significant crop damage, doubling the impact on farmers as both generations of the bug attack soybean crops.
In free-ranging Daubenton's bats, resting metabolic rate decreases during autumn to accommodate high energy demands of reproduction while minimizing food intake. During spring, the bats use daily torpor to balance energy budgets.