Lawrence O. Gostin praises Bloomberg's policies addressing obesity epidemic, disease surveillance, and tobacco control, citing successes in trans fat limits and tobacco reduction. He argues that Bloomberg's approach is a necessary response to lifestyle-related diseases, demonstrating creativity and courage in public health advocacy.
A new €2.49m research study, led by Queen's University Belfast, aims to uncover Malta's prehistoric past and develop strategies for conserving vulnerable heritage sites. The project will analyze ancient pollens, snails, insects, and other environmental materials to reconstruct the changing ecology of Malta during prehistory.
Scientists at UCL Institute of Neurology identified a genetic mutation that leads to the production of toxic RNA molecules, potentially responsible for frontotemporal dementia and motor neuron disease. The build-up of these molecules may be key to causing the diseases.
Scientists have isolated a live SARS-like virus from Chinese horseshoe bats, providing evidence for direct transmission. The discovery highlights the importance of surveillance and research programs targeting high-risk wildlife groups to predict and prevent pandemics.
Researchers at Michigan State University developed a simple 'noun-verb' test to measure creativity, finding that those who gave creative answers in the test were indeed the most creative as measured by other methods. The test could help create better educational and training programs to foster creativity.
A nationwide study found that individuals with Alzheimer's are more prone to ischaemic heart diseases but undergo fewer related procedures. Despite this, reduced cognitive function was not a clear explanation for the disparity in treatment
Closure of live poultry markets (LPMs) in four Chinese cities reduced daily human H7N9 infections by over 97%, according to new research. The study confirms LPM closure as a highly effective intervention to prevent human disease and protect public health.
Researchers have discovered that monoclonal antibodies can effectively treat HIV by directly targeting free virus and virally infected cells. The treatment resulted in rapid decline of virus levels in monkeys and boosted their immune responses against the virus, offering a potential new therapy option for humans.
A cognitive science study reveals that at least 50 percent of people can perceive the movement of their own hand even without light, suggesting brain combination of sensory information. Synesthetes, individuals who experience blending of senses, also showed improved visual perception.
A study found that early initiation of antiretroviral therapy (ART) for HIV-infected individuals with uninfected sexual partners can be a cost-effective strategy to prevent viral transmission. In South Africa, the treatment was projected to save money during the first five years, while in India, it was determined to be cost-effective o...
A Baylor University study discovered that watching R-rated movies leads to decreased church attendance and reduced importance of faith among young people. However, it had no effect on their doubts about beliefs or 'picking and choosing' teachings.
Researchers found a strong genetic connection between family members with autism and those with specific language impairment, characterized by speech and language difficulties. The study suggests that genes responsible for oral and written language impairments can result in similar behavioral characteristics.
Researchers at MIT have discovered an exoplanet named Kepler 78b that is approximately 1.2 times the size of Earth and has a mass about 1.7 times that of our planet. The planet's density is also similar to Earth's, suggesting it may be composed mainly of rock and iron.
A global study of 224 dryland sites in 16 countries predicts that increasing aridity will disturb the balance of nutrients in the soil, leading to a reduction in carbon and nitrogen and an increase in phosphorus. This imbalance will have severe effects on essential soil processes, particularly in areas with reduced plant cover.
Scientists have developed a new therapeutic approach for Type 2 diabetes using a novel single molecule hormone that acts on GLP-1 and GIP receptors. The hormone reduces weight and improves blood sugar levels, and may offer unprecedented potential for personalized therapies.
Gimball's spherical shape and gyroscopic stabilization system enable it to absorb shocks and maintain its course despite numerous collisions. The robot's technology simplicity allows it to operate in challenging terrain, such as forest areas, without the need for complex obstacle avoidance systems.
A recent study published in Neural Regeneration Research found that propofol can inhibit damage caused by proinflammatory cytokines and exert protective effects on the central nervous system. The experimental findings indicate that propofol promotes regeneration following sciatic nerve injury by reducing inflammation and apoptosis.
A new study by University of Iowa researchers found that staph bacteria superantigens trigger pro-inflammatory molecules in fat cells, amplifying inflammation and potentially leading to diabetes. Chronic exposure to these toxins creates a 'perfect storm' for inflammation, worsening the risk of developing diabetes.
Research from North Carolina State University found that weight loss in one partner can bring couples closer if both partners are supportive of healthy changes. However, resistance to change can lead to negative effects on the relationship. Couples where both partners were receptive to weight loss reported more positive interactions an...
The SMART-CASE trial found that a conservative approach to revascularization for patients with intermediate coronary lesions is safe and comparable to an aggressive strategy. After one year, both groups had similar rates of adverse events and clinical outcomes.
Researchers from the University of Missouri School of Medicine found a more accurate way to screen for bacterial meningococcal infection in its early stages. They discovered that abnormalities in neutrophil counts can indicate a serious infection, including meningococcal disease.
Researchers at the McGill University Health Centre have identified genetic changes in the colon lining that could be used as biomarkers for early diagnosis of colorectal cancer. The study, published online in Cancer Prevention Research, has implications for the nearly one million people diagnosed annually worldwide.
Scientists at the University of Houston develop technology to etch silicon wafers with atomic precision, overcoming industry challenges and enabling the creation of radically smaller and more powerful integrated circuits. By controlling ion kinetic energy, they can selectively etch materials like silicon and silicon dioxide.
Researchers at University of Notre Dame identified enzymes detrimental and beneficial to wound repair in diabetic individuals. Selective MMP-9 inhibitors showed 92% wound healing rate after 14 days, compared to 74% in untreated mice.
Researchers found that babies' brains show distinct activation patterns when watching an adult perform a task with different body parts. This somatotopic mapping helps facilitate imitation and could play a role in the baby's ability to copy actions themselves.
A new study from UMass Medical School reveals that human cytomegalovirus rapidly evolves as it spreads from mother to fetus, providing genetic targets for new therapeutics. The researchers found a specific window of gestation during which CMV is most vulnerable, suggesting an opportunity for preventative treatments.
Researchers found mixed effects on blueberry polyphenols after baking, cooking, and proofing. While anthocyanin levels decreased and phenolic acids increased, the use of yeast during baking might help retain these beneficial compounds.
Scientists at UC Riverside are using DNA marker-assisted breeding to accelerate the development of new cowpea varieties with desirable traits such as drought tolerance, pest resistance, and high yield. The research aims to improve crop yields in several African countries, supporting USAID's Feed the Future initiative.
A recent study by Brigham Young University researchers found that excessive texting can lead to lower relationship quality in committed relationships. For both men and women, using text messages to resolve conflicts or make decisions is associated with reduced relationship satisfaction.
The article proposes guidelines for physicians to disclose mistakes made by colleagues, reframing the concept of 'collegiality' as an opportunity to discuss quality problems. Barriers to these conversations include shame, stigma, and malpractice insurers, but institutions can foster a culture of transparency and trust.
Research from Oxford University found that internet forums provide emotional support for socially isolated young people, while also linking to an increased risk of self-harm and suicide. The review suggests clinical assessments should include questions about online content viewed.
The ADVISE II trial found that iFR accurately classified 94.2% of coronary stenoses, with high positive and negative predictive values for hemodynamically severe stenosis detection. The study supports the use of iFR to simplify physiological guidance of percutaneous coronary intervention without adenosine administration.
A study of 24 pregnant women found that fetuses who heard Twinkle Twinkle Little Star reacted strongly to the melody both immediately and four months after birth. This suggests that fetuses can recognize and remember sounds from the outside world, with potential implications for early rehabilitation.
Researchers found that brain dendrites process information and multiply the brain's computing power. They used patch-clamp electrophysiology to demonstrate this, seeing bursts of spikes in dendrites while other parts of the neuron did not.
Researchers are developing a new class of molecules called peptoids that can alter zeolite growth, changing the shape of these crystals from cylinders to flat platelets. This improvement will significantly extend the lifetime of catalysts, enabling companies to carry out processes more efficiently and at lower costs.
Studies show that medical students who receive guided relaxation and mindfulness training experience reduced stress levels and improved performance. The Wake Forest Baptist program provides a unique opportunity for medical schools to include stress-management training in their curriculums.
Berkeley Lab researchers design a programmable nanomaterial inspired by natural antibodies, capable of identifying diverse molecules. The new material resembles 'molecular Velcro' and has promising applications in chemical sensing and catalysis.
Scientists have created a lab-made high-density lipoprotein (HDL) mimic that can be easily produced in large amounts, offering a potential new treatment for cardiovascular disease. The material is also being explored as a carrier for drug delivery and medical imaging applications.
Researchers from the University of Manchester successfully recreated the walking and running movements of Argentinosaurus using computer simulations. The study provides new insights into the dinosaur's locomotion ability, dispelling previous suggestions that it was inflated in size.
A study found that playing video games like Super Mario 64 increases grey matter in the brain's spatial orientation, memory formation, and strategic planning centers. This plasticity may prove therapeutic for patients with mental health issues, such as schizophrenia or post-traumatic stress disorder.
Researchers found that oyster larvae settle in response to habitat-associated underwater sounds, particularly those of oyster reefs. This discovery could provide insights into establishing healthy oyster beds and monitoring the health of undersea reefs.
Research reveals warmer winters allow native plants to grow earlier, but at the expense of native trees and their need for cold sleep. Invasive species, such as shrubs and certain tree species from warmer climate zones, take advantage of this altered timing to start growing earlier and thrive.
Research by Valeska Gatica Rojas and colleagues found that children with diplegic cerebral palsy exhibit weaker postural balance control ability and less standing stability compared to hemiplegic cerebral palsy patients. Rehabilitation physicians can benefit from this knowledge to tailor their treatment approaches for improved outcomes.
A pilot study by TGen and the Virginia G. Piper Cancer Center used next-generation sequencing to analyze genetic variations in nine patients with advanced cancer. The study found that this technology can reveal multiple genomic changes and identify potential therapeutic targets, which could improve treatment outcomes for these patients.
The high cost of medical education is unsustainable and must be reduced to lower the overall cost of healthcare. Currently, students graduate with debt exceeding $150,000, which may lead to a market correction if healthcare costs decline.
Researchers investigated the characteristics of hemiplegic shoulder pain post-stroke and found that early onset and specific diagnosis types can reduce pain management efficacy. Comprehensive rehabilitation and electroacupuncture are more effective in alleviating shoulder subluxation pain. The study provides valuable insights for diagn...
Scientists at NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center are developing the world's first spaceborne sodium lidar to illuminate the complex relationship between Earth's chemistry and mesosphere dynamics. The instrument will provide higher-resolution data on the small-scale dynamics occurring in the upper atmosphere.
The study found that HPV vaccine initiation and completion rates were consistently lowest in the South, with 14% and 6% of women completing the series, respectively. The researchers believe regional disparities may be due to factors such as income, education, and insurance coverage.
Researchers used gene sequencing to map bacterial communities on two human cadavers, finding differences and changes over the decomposition process. The study suggests specific patterns in bacterial communities as a corpse decomposes.
Researchers found that prenatal music exposure can lead to long-lasting changes in the brain after birth, influencing the development of the auditory system. The study showed that fetuses can learn and retain musical melodies for a long time, even up to four months of age.
Researchers studied Brachyury gene's role in regulating notochord development, finding CRM mutations affect timing of gene expression. This can lead to birth defects and cancer by delaying critical developmental processes.
A new report highlights 100 companies created from federally funded university research, driving innovation and job creation. The companies' success is attributed to the nurturing ecosystem of research universities, providing access to essential tools like technology transfer offices and business incubators.
A Swedish study found that teenagers and young adults diagnosed with cancer are at a 60% increased risk of suicide or attempted suicide. The risk is highest during the first year after diagnosis, with suicidal behavior being 1.5-fold higher among cancer patients compared to the general population.
A study using eye tracking technology found that men focus more on women's chests and waists than faces when evaluating their appearance. Women with hourglass figures are generally regarded more positively, even by personality-focused men. This highlights the objectifying gaze towards women and its impact on self-perception.
A study of over 6,000 Swiss adolescents found that child sexual abuse via the internet is alarmingly widespread, with 28% of girls and 10% of boys experiencing it. The majority of victims were abused by juvenile perpetrators, and most did not disclose their experiences to authorities.
The COREVALVE EXTREME RISK trial found that the self-expanding transcatheter aortic valve reduced all-cause mortality or major stroke rate by 68% at 12 months compared to the pre-specified performance goal. The study included 487 patients with severe aortic stenosis, most of whom were elderly and had high surgical risk.
Researchers discovered a new molecular target for controlling malaria by blocking egg development in mosquitoes. The study found that a male hormone delivered during sex activates a protein switch, which boosts egg production. This finding holds promise for developing new tools to control malaria-transmitting mosquito populations.
A study published in the Journal of Traumatic Stress found that second-generation Holocaust survivors had consistently lower levels of post-traumatic growth than non-second generation survivors, contrary to expectations. The researchers suggest that this may be due to inherited trauma and guilt from their parents' experience.
Scientists have identified a novel transposon in listeria bacteria responsible for tolerance to benzalkonium chloride. The discovery highlights the importance of thorough disinfection in food-processing facilities to prevent the spread of resistant bacteria.
A systematic review and meta-analysis found that psychological and health promotion interventions by non-mental health specialists improved symptoms in women during the perinatal period. The study, conducted in middle-income countries, suggests promise for psychosocial interventions in low- and middle-income settings.