Researchers from La Jolla Institute, Dana-Farber and BloodCenter of Wisconsin are launching Phase II clinical trials to investigate a potential new therapy for reducing sickle cell anemia symptoms. The trial is testing Lexiscan, an existing drug with anti-inflammatory effects.
Researchers found that short post-meal walks were as effective at reducing blood sugar over 24 hours as a 45-minute sustained walk. The most effective time for walking was after the evening meal, which helped curb high blood sugar levels that often last into the night and early morning.
Two studies assess joint replacement outcomes in patients with RA, overturning the common belief that RA patients have worse outcomes after a total knee replacement. RA patients who undergo hip replacement show similar improvements in function and pain as osteoarthritis patients.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health have identified a new mechanism of PZA drug resistance, which could lead to the development of new antibiotic therapies. The study found that mutations in the panD gene may also be involved in PZA resistance, providing new insight into how this mysterious drug works.
A Stanford/Packard study found that a short self-defense course can dramatically reduce the vulnerability of adolescent girls to sexual assault in Kenya. The 12-hour training program taught verbal and physical self-defense techniques, resulting in a significant decrease in rape cases among participants.
Scientists have developed a cheap and sustainable material made of clay and papaya seeds that can remove heavy metals from drinking water. The 'hybrid clay' has shown strong potential to replace commercial activated carbon in wastewater treatment in developing countries, making clean water more accessible to millions.
Researchers at Vienna University of Technology have demonstrated experimentally that ultra-thin glass fibers can store quantum information long enough to be used for entangling atoms hundreds of kilometers apart. This is a fundamental building block for a global fiber-based quantum communication network.
A subgroup analysis from a phase III clinical trial found that eribulin demonstrated a greater potential benefit in overall survival compared to capecitabine for women with previously treated metastatic breast cancer. Specifically, patients with multiple organs involved, those who had not received chemotherapy for six months or longer,...
The Ehux genome reveals variability that explains its ability to thrive in diverse ocean conditions, influencing global carbon cycling. The pan-genome analysis sheds light on the underlying mechanisms of physiological and morphological variations among isolates.
A team of evolutionary biologists discovered that male guppies can continue to reproduce for at least 10 months after they die, with stored sperm surviving inside females. This phenomenon increases population size and genetic variation, allowing populations to survive and thrive in environments where males are scarce.
Researchers develop an engineered virus that can deliver genes to difficult-to-reach cells in the retina, restoring vision to patients with inherited defects and degenerative illnesses. The new therapy is surgically non-invasive and takes only 15 minutes to administer.
The lack of hard data on drug safety during pregnancy is leading to a doubling of deaths among mothers with underlying health conditions. Pregnant women are hesitant to take medications due to concerns about their developing baby, while doctors are also reluctant to prescribe due to limited evidence.
Researchers tracked carbon dioxide movement and concentration using the world's deepest Electrical Resistance Tomography (ERT) system. The system provided time-lapse images of CO2 injection into a geologic formation, offering insights into geological sequestration techniques.
The critically endangered Chinese species Passiflora kwangtungensis has been rediscovered in Hunan Province, highlighting its high population size decline and limited genetic diversity. The plant's rarity is attributed to deforestation and geographical isolation, emphasizing the need for conservation efforts.
Young zebra finches can learn their fathers' songs via their brothers, and this learning process is similar to human speech acquisition. The study found that juvenile siblings with no father exposure learned the same song as those exposed to a brother's song for a short period.
Scientists discovered a set of core genes that mix and match with variable genes allowing Emiliania huxleyi to adapt to different environments. This discovery may help understand how rising industrial carbon emissions affect climate and ocean health.
Researchers at Imperial College London found that patients with timely access to GP appointments made fewer A&E visits. The study analyzed data from a national survey of patients' experiences of GP practices in 2010-11, revealing a 10.2% lower rate of A&E visits for the best-accessed practices compared to those with the worst access.
The TEDDY study has identified a unique perspective on which molecular and environmental factors contribute to type 1 diabetes. By parsing genetic mutations, scientists can better predict disease progression and identify potential protective factors.
The number of children admitted to hospital for obesity-related conditions quadrupled between 2000 and 2009, primarily due to complications such as asthma and pregnancy. Teenage girls were disproportionately affected, with a significant rise in bariatric surgery procedures.
Research shows free bus travel for teens in London led to a doubling of short journeys taken by bus, while walking decreased, but cycling declined. This shift reduced road traffic injuries and had a positive impact on the environment by decreasing car usage and distances traveled.
Tropical Depression Yagi has weakened due to cooler waters and an upper-level low pressure area, causing it to lose its circulation and become elongated. Its maximum sustained winds dropped to 30 knots on June 12, leading to forecasters predicting dissipation by June 13.
A study found specific patterns of brain activity can indicate whether a patient will respond to medication or psychotherapy for depression. Low activity in the anterior insula region was associated with remission through CBT, while high activity was linked to improved response to medication.
A new study analyzes geologic records to predict megathrust earthquakes along Canada's west coast. The research identified 22 earthquake shaking events over the past 11,000 years, with a recurrence interval of about 500 years. This study helps Canadian coastal communities improve hazard assessments and emergency preparedness plans.
Researchers found that seniors' saliva contains more efficient germ-fighting proteins that bind to influenza, helping them fight off the disease. The study's findings may provide useful information for understanding age-related diseases and developing prevention strategies.
A new biomarker has been identified to predict which type of depression treatment is most likely to be successful, either therapy or medication. The study used pre-treatment brain scans to identify a pivotal predictor of outcomes from two standard forms of depression treatment: cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) or escitalopram.
A head-to-head trial shows that subcutaneous abatacept is as effective as adalimumab in clinical and functional outcomes for patients with active rheumatoid arthritis. The study found comparable efficacy and safety profiles between the two treatments, with fewer injection site reactions in the abatacept group.
According to Concordia University professor Gad Saad, the drive to consume is rooted in a shared biological heritage. He found that four key Darwinian factors - survival, reproduction, kin selection, and reciprocal altruism - shape narratives in consumer products like movies and song lyrics.
A recent study found that only 25.2% of newly graduated physicians work as primary care doctors, with significant shortages in rural and underserved areas. The study's findings suggest that the current graduate medical education system is not meeting the nation's need for more primary care physicians.
A Penn Study found that sperm of stressed male mice had an impact on their offspring's brain development and stress response. Male and female offspring showed a reduced stress reaction, which can lead to mental disorders like anxiety and depression.
The CHERISH trial demonstrates the effectiveness of tocilizumab in reducing symptoms and signs of juvenile idiopathic arthritis. Patients with polyarticular JIA achieved significant clinical responses, including ACR30/50/70 responses, with as many as 65% attaining an ACR70 response.
A recent study published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry found that green coffee bean dietary supplements do not protect against obesity-related disorders when given at higher doses. The research linked chlorogenic acid to an unhealthy build-up of fat in the liver.
A recent study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology found that obstructive sleep apnea is associated with a significantly higher risk of sudden cardiac death. The study, which followed over 10,700 participants for an average of 5.3 years, revealed that people with sleep apnea were almost twice as likely to exp...
A study published in Traffic Injury Prevention found that bicycle helmets certified to Australia's national standard significantly reduce linear and angular head accelerations and impact force. Helmet use greatly reduces the risk of head, skull and brain injury by up to 9.5 times.
Apremilast administered to patients with psoriatic arthritis showed significant clinical responses beyond 24 weeks, with up to 65% achieving ACR20 response rates at week 52. The novel PDE-4 inhibitor was well-tolerated with an acceptable long-term safety profile.
Penn State researchers found that cocoa powder supplement reduced inflammation and fatty liver disease in mice fed high-fat diet. The study suggests cocoa's polyphenolic compounds may improve gut barrier function and reduce insulin levels.
Researchers at the University of Cambridge have developed a new method to create highly permeable and selective membranes for molecular-level separation, using ultraviolet irradiation. The process increases the density of the membrane surface, allowing for improved separation of molecules with varying sizes.
Scientists have discovered a remarkable diversity of flying reptiles, including 30 species and five genera, from the Cretaceous period in England. The fossils show varying head crests and teeth sizes, suggesting different feeding preferences.
A Kaiser Permanente study found that high levels of BPA in urine were associated with a double risk of obesity in girls between 9 and 12 years old. The study suggests that BPA could be a potential environmental obesogen, contributing to the worldwide obesity epidemic.
Psoriatic arthritis patients treated with ustekinumab showed significant and sustained improvements in signs and symptoms, even in those previously treated with biologic agents. The treatment was well-tolerated with no deaths or serious adverse events.
A study published in PLOS ONE found a strong correlation between high elevation and the presence of ejective consonants in languages. Languages with ejectives are predominantly spoken in regions above 1500m, with a positive correlation seen across all major land masses.
A Baylor University study found that 'spiritual' young people are more likely to commit property crimes, while those who identify as religious show lower levels of crime. The researchers analyzed data from over 14,000 individuals and found a link between spiritual but not religious status and increased property crime rates.
Researchers found a strong correlation between high altitude and spoken languages that use ejective consonants. Ejectives are absent in the English language, but were found in languages spoken on or near five out of six major high-altitude regions.
A study found that cervical spine surgery at teaching hospitals had higher mortality and complication rates compared to non-teaching hospitals, likely due to the complexity of procedures and riskier patient populations. However, after adjusting for these factors, the difference in outcomes was no longer significant.
Researchers developed a new MRI technique that analyzes electro-magnetic waves for detecting multiple sclerosis changes in fine detail. This method provides a more powerful tool for evaluating new treatments and could lead to smaller studies.
The European Rheumatology Research Foundation was launched to support high-quality, peer-reviewed research on rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases. The foundation aims to improve diagnosis and treatment of SSc by introducing revised classification criteria.
A team of researchers has successfully measured heat transfer at the atomic scale, enabling insights into the relationship between heat dissipation and electronic structure in devices. This breakthrough could help overcome technological hurdles in creating smaller and more powerful electronics.
The Massachusetts public health experience provides valuable insights into the role of public health in healthcare reform. Public health officials learned to fight for a decision-making role, analyze data, and defend traditional services while contributing to cost reduction and quality improvement efforts.
RA patients identified seven key categories essential for adopting and maintaining physical activity, including personal incentives, peer support, and professional coaching. The study aimed to develop an internet-based physical activity intervention that caters to these needs, promoting exercise habits among RA patients.
Researchers at Argonne National Laboratory have found a way to make a material expand instead of compress under pressure. This counterintuitive discovery could lead to the creation of new porous framework materials with unique properties.
Researchers at UC Santa Barbara developed a new method to control crystallization of organic semiconductors, increasing yield to near 100 percent with a low-cost, sugar-based additive. This breakthrough enhances performance, makes technology cheaper and more accessible.
A new microscopy technique developed by NIST researchers uses cathodoluminescence to image nanoscale features with high resolution. The technique combines the benefits of optical and scanning electron microscopes, evading traditional limitations such as diffraction and sample preparation requirements.
Researchers at the University of Manchester have created elementary magnetic moments in graphene and controlled their switching. This breakthrough has significant implications for spintronics, enabling active devices with improved performance.
A study of 1300 German teens found that exposure to tobacco ads boosts the risk of starting to smoke by almost 40%, while increasing daily smoking chances by 30%. The analysis controlled for other influential factors, suggesting a direct link between tobacco ad exposure and smoking behavior.
Research on weakly electric fish reveals the complexity of their electrocommunication methods, including multiple neural coding systems and diverse behavioral responses. The study sheds light on the evolution of these unique sensory systems in different species.
Men with restless legs syndrome (RLS) have a nearly 40% increased risk of death compared to men without RLS. The study also found that the association dropped only slightly after adjusting for factors such as body mass index and lifestyle, indicating that RLS may lead to higher mortality rates independently of other known risk factors.
Researchers found that purple sea urchins can adapt to ocean acidification through natural variation and heritable traits. The study suggests that adaptation will play a significant role in the survival of this keystone species as carbon dioxide levels increase.
Japan's high-tech companies excel in producing components for lithium-ion batteries and LCD films, with financial performance outpacing the rest of the chemical industry.
Researchers found that people with inherited Alzheimer's disease produce 20% more of a specific form of amyloid beta, known as amyloid beta 42. Additionally, the protein drops out of cerebrospinal fluid more quickly in mutation carriers, suggesting a link to brain amyloid plaques.
Researchers used the Secondary Ion Mass Spectrometer to examine the role of water in single olivine crystals at the near-atomic scale. The study found that water has a much lower effect on the mechanical weakening of olivine, challenging earlier concepts about its lubricating properties.
A new study found that a daily oral dose of tenofovir significantly reduces the risk of HIV infection in people who inject drugs, with 17 participants infected out of 1204 on the drug versus 33 on placebo. Adherence to the treatment was key to its effectiveness.
A team of researchers led by Gupreet Singh has devised a method to assemble self-assembled copolymer block films with nanostructures, enabling multiple functions and flexibility on a macroscale level. The films can be embedded with nanoparticles for various applications, including data storage and water purification.
Researchers at The Mount Sinai Medical Center found that commonly prescribed medications can either block or enhance beta-amyloid accumulation in the brain. Treatment with certain drugs has been shown to significantly reduce amyloid plaques and neurodegeneration in mice.
Researchers at University of Delaware and Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution found evidence of active bacteria, fungi and other microscopic organisms at depths deeper than a skyscraper is high. The microbes are reproducing, digesting food and moving around despite extreme conditions.
A new study on ocean microbes calls into question the potential use of algal blooms to trap carbon dioxide. Diatoms are found to be using more iron than needed for photosynthesis, storing it in their shells and reducing the amount available for other phytoplankton.
Researchers found evidence of actively metabolizing and proliferating bacteria, archaea, and fungi in the deep biosphere, with implications for global biogeochemical cycles. The study revealed diverse biochemical pathways and movement mechanisms, including flagellar-driven locomotion and gliding.
The analysis of fossil kangaroo teeth reveals a diverse prehistoric habitat in southeastern Queensland, including tropical forests, wetlands, and grasslands. The findings suggest that extinct marsupials occupied specialized dietary niches, contradicting previous assumptions about the region's aridity.
Researchers at the University of Illinois at Chicago discovered that genetic mutations associated with inherited ALS can cause delays in nutrient and protein transport within nerve cells. This slowdown can lead to cell death, contributing to the neurodegenerative disorder.
A recent study offers a tool to identify regions exposed to multiple forest threats, including wildfires, urban development, and insects and disease. The tool uses a novel analysis technique to highlight locations where threats are more concentrated.
A team of Spanish researchers has sequenced the global deep ocean genome using over 2,000 samples of microorganisms collected from the Atlantic, Indian, and Pacific Oceans. This groundbreaking study reveals a vast unknown species of microorganisms with intense biological activity.
A new study reveals that one in eight high-risk patients using over-the-counter NSAIDs take the medication despite knowing the risks. The most common reasons for use were musculoskeletal complaints, with 67% citing this as a reason.
Researchers have identified a sleep mechanism that enables the brain to consolidate emotional memory and found that Ambien heightens recollection of and response to bad memories. This discovery has implications for individuals with anxiety disorders, such as PTSD, who are prescribed Ambien to help them sleep.
Professors Barry Bresnihan and Jean-Michel Dayer received the Meritorious Service Award from EULAR for their dedication to advancing rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases. They have conducted pivotal research that substantially improved patient lives, particularly in rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus erythematosus.
Researchers from the University of Toronto have created an electronic chip that can analyze samples for panels of infectious bacteria in a matter of minutes. The technology can identify multiple pathogens and determine antibiotic resistance, addressing the urgent need for rapid diagnosis.
Researchers used nanosensors and advanced imaging techniques to track the spread of pancreatic tumors and monitor the effectiveness of drugs. The study reveals promising results for combination therapies that can enhance drug delivery and improve clinical outcomes.
Scientists at NYU Langone Health have discovered a population of self-renewing stem cells in the nail matrix that depend on Wnt signaling proteins to regenerate bone and tissue. This breakthrough holds promise for therapies to help people regenerate lost limbs, affecting an estimated 1.7 million Americans with amputations.
Researchers found that blocking kappa opioid receptors in the central amygdala reduced signs of cocaine addiction in rats, suggesting a potential therapeutic approach. The study highlights an alternative to traditional pleasure-seeking circuits and provides hope for new treatments targeting negative motivational factors.
The Journal of Pharmaceutical Policy and Practice has transferred to BioMed Central, supporting its growth and development. The new focus will cover high-income economies and provide a platform for researchers to share evidence and perspectives on global pharmaceutical policy.
A new study by John Helliwell and colleagues found that communities with better social capital and pro-social behaviors are more resilient during crises, leading to improved happiness. The research suggests that social trust and quality social networks play a crucial role in mitigating the impact of economic shocks.
Ocean acidification is altering shell formation rates and energy usage in young oysters, leading to increased mortality. However, interventions at hatcheries, such as buffering water with antacids, may help mitigate these effects.
A study presented at EULAR 2013 found that a progressive muscle strengthening programme using a Swiss ball significantly improves functional capacity, muscle strength, and mobility in patients with Ankylosing Spondylitis. The programme also showed no harmful effects on disease activity, leading to improved treatment satisfaction.
A study published in JAMA Pediatrics found that laws and district policies limiting sugar content in foods reduced sweets sales to 32.3% of schools. The availability of sugar-sweetened beverages decreased significantly, with only 3.6% of schools with a ban compared to 13.1% without one.
Researchers found that 10-month-old infants preferentially reach for the victim rather than the aggressor in an animated sequence test. This suggests that infants may exhibit rudimentary sympathy toward others in distress based on their evaluation of roles in interactions.
Researchers have developed a color sensor method using luminous bacterial proteins to detect pharmaceutical residues and pollutants in water. The method uses a red and green fluorescent dye, with the dyes shining green when present and red when not present, making it suitable for detecting a wide range of substances.
Researchers found that loggerhead turtles rely on sight to identify and move towards gelatinous, floating prey like jellyfish and other organisms. They can snack on these low-energy foods approximately twice every hour, suggesting they may rely on such prey for energy more than previously thought.
A new study at Georgia Tech suggests that diatoms stuff more iron into their silica shells than needed, limiting its availability and reducing productivity. This can negatively affect the ecosystem, including plankton production and competition for iron.
A new study demonstrates the efficacy of a radiographic scoring method to evaluate joint damage in rheumatoid arthritis, revealing progressive destruction even under TNF-blocking therapies. Patients with pre-existing damage showed significant increases in joint damage, highlighting the importance of early and accurate evaluation.
Researchers find genetic diversity as key to the species' adaptive potential, global distribution, and ability to thrive in various ocean environments. The study reveals a pan-genome with a core set of genes supplemented by region-specific genes, enabling the calcified alga to live almost everywhere at the ocean surface.
A new study shows that rapid evaluation for Giant Cell Arteritis (GCA) using Color Doppler Ultrasound (CDUS) followed by immediate treatment significantly reduces permanent vision loss. The 'fast track' approach led to 11.1% transient visual manifestations, with none suffering from permanent visual loss.
Researchers used GIS to better understand relationships between populations and resources in Alaska, Texas, and Nepal. GIS identified spatial patterns and barriers to healthy food access in rural areas.
Exercise-induced bronchoconstriction affects 10% of the population, causing symptoms like cough, wheezing, and shortness of breath. Vitamin C has been shown to halve the FEV1 decline caused by exercise in three randomized trials, indicating a potential benefit against this condition.
A study of 1,500 women reveals that hot flashes and night sweats can occur before menopause, particularly among white women, Asian women, and those with certain dietary habits. The findings shed light on the complex factors influencing midlife symptoms and provide reassurance for women experiencing unexpected hot flashes.
Research at the University of Alberta found that rats with low birth weights are more susceptible to age-related vision loss. The team's findings suggest a potential link between low birth weights and complex diseases like age-related eye disorders.
A study demonstrates that brodalumab effectively reduces PsA symptoms and improves quality of life. The treatment also shows promise for those with prior biologic exposure, indicating a potential new therapeutic approach for this progressive disease.
The University of Texas at Austin's Nanoelectronics Center will receive a five-year, $7.8 million award from SRC and NIST to develop novel ultra-low-power transistor research. The goal is to create transistors that consume significantly less energy than current devices, with potential applications in mobile computing and manufacturing.
A new molybdenum-based image sensor has been developed, featuring a single pixel that requires only 1/5th the light energy of current silicon-based sensors. This breakthrough enables high sensitivity in low-light conditions, opening up new possibilities for astrophotography and biological imaging.
A new study by the University of Utah found that hands-free devices can overload drivers' attention and impair their ability to drive safely. The study used advanced metrics to assess driver mental workload and reaction time, revealing a five-fold increase in infotainment systems in new vehicles by 2018
Research reveals African-Americans have a greater decline in their sense of smell as they age, which can lead to impaired nutrition and increased risk of neurodegenerative diseases. The study found that racial disparities in olfactory function cannot be explained by social, environmental or medical factors.
Research suggests that people are more likely to respond quickly and accurately to genuine smiles than polite smiles. This finding has implications for social interactions and may be a critical social skill to learn.
A new study by Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health suggests that restricting large sugar-sweetened beverages in food service establishments would primarily affect overweight individuals, including teenagers. The proposed restrictions aim to reduce obesity, which is linked to excess calories from sugary drinks.
Researchers at Carnegie Mellon University developed a method for tracking individuals in complex nursing home settings using video cameras. The technique used multiple cues such as apparel color, person detection, trajectory and facial recognition to track 13 people with an accuracy of 88%, outperforming leading algorithms.