A global survey by the European Society for Medical Oncology found that over half of the world's population lives in countries with regulations limiting access to opioid medicines for managing cancer pain. The study highlights the need for regulatory reform and education to improve access to these medicines.
A novel study reveals a severe shortage of rheumatologists in smaller micropolitan US regions, where patients often have to travel over 200 miles for care. The research highlights the need for interventions to increase the supply of rheumatologists in underserved areas.
Researchers have discovered a promising new treatment that can help people with spinal cord injuries walk better. The study involved 19 participants who received short periods of breathing low oxygen levels, resulting in improved walking speed and endurance.
The article discusses the evolution of ethical debates surrounding face transplantation, with early concerns fading as experience shows benefits in helping patients return to normal life. The procedure is expected to become more common, raising new questions about patient selection, costs, and allocation of donor tissues.
A new clinical study shows that a tongue-controlled wheelchair can access computers and execute commands faster than sip-and-puff systems, with equal accuracy. The Tongue Drive System enables people with tetraplegia to maneuver their wheelchairs better than those using traditional assistive technologies.
Researchers have identified phosphatidylinositol 4-kinase (PI4K) as a potential malaria drug target, essential throughout the Plasmodium life cycle. Imidazopyrazines inhibit PI4K activity, blocking parasite development in both liver and bloodstream stages.
Older patients with traumatic injuries can regain more daily activities with geriatric care, according to a new study. Geriatric interventions helped them take better care of themselves and be more independent.
Astronomers Alice Quillen and her team developed a mathematical model to understand the movement of stars in the galactic bulge, finding that peanut-shell shaped orbits are consistent with observed effects. The new research aims to improve our understanding of galaxy formation and evolution.
A new study examines the geological legacy of Hurricane Irene, shedding light on the long-term record of storm frequency and impact. The researchers found that the lack of definitive signatures from the hurricane in paleostorm records highlights concerns about current understanding of hurricane deposition and preservation.
New research suggests that 55% of bilateral adrenal Cushing's syndrome patients have genetic mutations predisposing to adrenal tumors. Genetic screening may help identify affected family members, potentially preventing disease progression and eliminating current treatment practices.
Researchers discovered a potential new treatment for malaria by targeting the parasite's vulnerability to oxytocin, a naturally occurring hormone. Oxytocin has been shown to enhance brain activity while processing social information in children with autism spectrum disorders.
Tropical Storm Alessia reclaimed her title after being tracked by NASA's TRMM satellite on November 27. Heavy rainfall was observed around the storm's center, with rain rates reaching up to 50 mm/hour.
A new analysis of NFL results suggests that West Coast teams perform better at night when playing East Coast teams, likely due to their natural circadian peak. In 106 night games, West Coast teams beat the point spread in 66% of matches by an average of 5.26 points.
Researchers found that persimmon leaf flavonoid mitigates pathological injury of brain tissue following cerebral ischemia/reperfusion in rats, elevating brain ischemic tolerance. High-dose persimmon leaf flavonoid showed an identical effect to ginaton, providing a potential basis for drug development.
A new aggressive HIV strain, A3/02, has been identified in West Africa and is associated with a shorter period of five years from infection to AIDS development. The study also highlights the increasing global spread of recombinant HIV forms, which can be more vigorous and aggressive than traditional strains.
Research suggests that women who test negative for BRCA2 mutations but have a family history are still at higher risk of developing breast cancer, with a fourfold increased risk compared to the general population. The study found that genetic factors other than BRCA-related genes may contribute to this increased risk.
A comprehensive study reveals that poor mothers and fathers from ethnic minority groups experience high levels of chronic stress, affecting their mental and physical health. The research also found that certain ethnic groups, such as recent immigrants, tend to have lower stress levels despite facing similar socioeconomic challenges.
Javad Nazarian, a Children's Research Institute researcher, has received a $99,979 grant to study pediatric diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG) using proteomics and RNA sequencing. The goal is to understand the molecular biology of this lethal childhood cancer.
Researchers at MD Anderson Cancer Center have identified USP13, an enzyme that stabilizes the tumor-suppressor protein PTEN, preventing its destruction by the cell's proteasome machinery. This discovery provides a new avenue for treating cancers with low levels of PTEN.
A Northwestern University research team successfully built near-perfect single crystals out of nanoparticles and DNA, transforming disordered materials into orderly crystal structures. The technique, developed by Chad Mirkin and Monica Olvera de la Cruz, holds promise for novel technologies and new industries.
Researchers successfully created artificial magnets using quantum matter waves of Rubidium atoms. The team's innovative method mimics the behavior of traditional magnets, allowing for clearer understanding and potential applications in fields like data storage and medical instrumentation.
New Australian research reveals that non-hip, non-vertebral fractures can significantly increase the risk of premature death, with some fractures potentially shortening life expectancy. The study analyzed data from a large-scale epidemiological study and found that all fractures are serious, with varying levels of severity.
Researchers Hanna, Guven, and Müller used patterns on whirling dervish skirts to create mathematical equations governing cone-shaped structures in rotation. Their work enhances understanding of flexible object dynamics and pattern formation in rotating systems.
Researchers found EU governments pay 75% of annual access fees, which account for just 1.5% of revenue generated from selling catch. The industry benefits more than developing countries, perpetuating overfishing and contradicting the EU's development goals.
A study by Aarhus University researchers reveals that labor mobility is essential for small European countries to match China's export growth rates. Companies can hire employees with experience in and knowledge about new export destinations to gain a competitive edge.
The study found that perinatal exposure to estrogen-like compounds may be associated with a host of health problems. The researchers aim to review the latest advances in morphological definition, developmental mechanisms, and environmental factors that can influence the development of the sexually dimorphic nucleus.
Researchers at UH have discovered that a specific protein inhibits gamma lobe neurons, which are involved in forming memories. This finding has implications for treating dementia by understanding how memories form.
A study by The University of Manchester shows that improved safety measures and specialist community services can reduce suicide rates among patients at risk. Implementing key recommendations, such as crisis resolution and information sharing with criminal justice agencies, is crucial in preventing suicide deaths.
The University of Pittsburgh's Project Tycho has digitized all weekly surveillance reports for reportable diseases in the US since 1888, revealing patterns and insights into vaccine effectiveness. The database contains data on eight vaccine-preventable diseases, showing a resurgence of some diseases despite vaccination efforts.
A new analysis suggests that economic development can only buy happiness up to a certain level of wealth. Once income reaches around $36,000 GDP per capita, life satisfaction levels peak before dipping slightly in the very rich countries. This finding contradicts previous studies that showed a flat relationship between GDP and happiness.
Researchers at Brigham and Women's Hospital have successfully developed nanoparticles that can be absorbed through the digestive tract, enabling targeted and convenient drug delivery. This breakthrough could one day allow patients to take a pill instead of receiving injections for conditions such as cancer and high cholesterol.
Scientists have identified a key metabolic enzyme used by Plasmodium species at each stage of infection, paving the way for more effective drugs and potentially eradicating malaria. The discovery could lead to radical cures and prevent infections, blocking transmission back to mosquitoes.
Researchers found that higher doses of testosterone improved sexual function, muscle mass, and physical performance in postmenopausal women who had undergone hysterectomy. However, side effects such as unwanted hair growth and acne were rare in the study.
Researchers found that combining modafinil with antidepressants improved depression symptoms and reduced fatigue, which are common relapse triggers. The study suggests modafinil may be a useful supplement for those struggling with depression.
5-hydroxymethylfurfural, extracted from wine-processed Fructus corni, protects against H2O2-induced rat hippocampal neuron apoptosis by regulating apoptosis-related genes. This finding provides evidence for the clinical prevention and treatment of oxidative injury-related diseases in the brain.
Researchers found that over half of subarctic lakes show signs of desiccation, with some drying up completely in summer 2013. The decline in meltwater is linked to dry summers and less snowy winters, which could lead to significant ecological consequences.
A study published in Neural Regeneration Research found that dl-3n-butylphthalide improved motor and sensory functions after diffuse brain injury. The compound also increased vascular density and cerebral blood flow, suggesting potential therapeutic benefits for microcirculation disorders.
Researchers found that a daily probiotic drink changed how cells in nasal passages reacted to pollen, but not hay fever symptoms. The study suggests a link between the gut microbiota and immune responses in seasonal allergic rhinitis.
Researchers have discovered that introducing plasma to combustion reactions can sustain flames in conditions where they would normally be extinguished. This technology could significantly improve the efficiency of military jets, passenger planes, and unmanned drones by conserving fuel and extending flight times.
Researchers at ETH Zurich have developed an implantable genetic circuit that monitors and regulates blood fat levels, reducing hunger and promoting weight loss in obese mice. The innovative device exploits the natural human satiety mechanism, providing a potential alternative to surgical interventions.
A study from the University of Pennsylvania has uncovered a mechanism that allows blood stem cells to divide in perpetuity, using the motor protein myosin II. The researchers found that asymmetric division is enabled by myosin IIB, which helps to partition key factors and keep one side as a stem cell.
A UC Berkeley study found that shoppers spend more money when engaged in a 'pay-it-forward' chain of goodwill than when they can name their own price. The results shed light on the psychological and social forces guiding consumer decisions beyond getting the best deal.
John Trumble, a renowned entomologist at UC Riverside, has been awarded the 2013 Oscar Lorenz Award for his outstanding contributions to research and extension education in the California vegetable industry. He has developed effective integrated pest management programs and strategies to reduce the use of toxic insecticides.
A high-fat diet starting at puberty accelerates breast cancer development and alters immune cells, leading to precancerous lesions. This type of diet may also produce a distinct gene signature consistent with basal-like breast cancers, which have a worse prognosis.
Researchers emphasize measuring orthopaedic care value through patient-reported outcomes and cost analysis, enabling real-time medical decision-making. The study outlines key principles for implementing value-based healthcare in musculoskeletal care.
A recent study estimates the global death toll from the 2009 H1N1 outbreak to be up to 203,000 respiratory deaths, significantly higher than the World Health Organization's initial count of 18,449 laboratory-confirmed cases. The pandemic disproportionately affected younger people and certain regions, such as the Americas.
Researchers used Google Earth satellite imagery to estimate 1,900 fishing weirs along the Persian Gulf coast in 2005, catching approximately 31,000 tonnes of fish. The official reported catch was significantly lower at 5,260 tonnes.
Research shows ocean warming reduces swimming ability of large reef fish, impacting hunting, mating, and reproduction. The study suggests that coral trout populations may adapt to warmer temperatures, but further research is needed.
Belgium's policy of limiting embryo transfers with six ART cycles reimbursement shows no negative impact on pregnancy and delivery rates, while reducing multiple births. This 'Belgian model' can be considered by governments worldwide to achieve a 50% reduction in MPR and public health costs.
The NREL Building Agent application allows facility managers to diagnose and adjust for problems based on direct occupant comfort feedback. This integration enables a more active role for occupants in comfort and energy trade-offs, leading to improved building performance and cost savings.
A large study identifies genetic variants that contribute to the progression of chronic kidney disease in African Americans. APOL1 risk variants were found to be associated with higher rates of end-stage renal disease and progression of chronic kidney disease among black patients compared to white patients, regardless of diabetes status.
A national study funded by the National Eye Institute found that most corneal transplants from donors aged 34-71 have remarkable longevity, with success rates remaining steady at 75% after 10 years. Corneas from younger donors had higher success rates, while those from older donors showed slightly lower performance.
Researchers at Boston University School of Medicine and Boston Medical Center are developing a next-generation condom that uses nanoparticle technology to increase comfort, strength, and sensation. The goal is to make condoms more appealing to use and reduce the stigma associated with them.
Seahorses use their specially shaped heads to capture prey, including copepods, which are notoriously difficult to catch due to their speed. In calm conditions, seahorses achieve a 90% success rate in catching their intended prey.
Researchers at Florida State University have secured over $1.4 million in funding to develop a system for producing large quantities of buckypaper, a lightweight and high-performance material made from carbon nanotubes. The goal is to make the material more efficient and cost-effective for industries such as aviation and aerospace.
Researchers identified five promising treatments, including constraint-induced movement therapy and transcranial magnetic stimulation, to improve rehabilitation outcomes in stroke patients. These non-invasive methods have potential applications beyond stroke rehabilitation.
The 2012 Renewable Energy Data Book reports a significant increase in US renewable electricity capacity, with installed capacity over 163 GW and renewables accounting for 56% of new electrical capacity installations. Wind and solar PV were among the fastest-growing electric generation technologies.
A study analyzing resting-state functional MRI data from four populations reveals that Alzheimer's disease is associated with a decline in brain network efficiency. As cognitive deficits increase, the shortest path in the network increases while clustering coefficients decrease.
Researchers in Denmark investigated oral fluoroquinolone use and found no association with an increased risk of retinal detachment. The study analyzed data from a nationwide register and compared fluoroquinolone use to nonuse, concluding that current use would account for only 11 additional cases per 1,000,000 treatment episodes.
A new study reveals that iron may play a role in preserving ancient tissues within dinosaur fossils, but also concealing them. Hemoglobin is identified as a key player in this process, which could lead to the recovery of more preserved tissues from well-preserved fossils.