A federally sponsored plan has been successful in addressing the challenges of prioritizing and coordinating strategies to curb health care-acquired infections. The plan has also been associated with reductions in the rates of health care-associated infection rates, with progress made toward most targets where data are available.
Researchers at CNIO propose a new combined therapy to treat cancer by combining etoposide with compounds that interfere with the cell cycle, increasing specificity and improving the therapeutic window. This approach aims to reduce toxicity and increase effectiveness in treating tumour cells.
Researchers at the University of Warwick have detected and sequenced an ancient RNA genome of Barley Stripe Mosaic Virus in a 750-year-old barley grain found in modern-day Egypt. The study pushes back the origin of the virus to at least 2,000 years and reveals how intense farming during the Crusades contributed to its spread.
A recent review suggests that chlamydia can persist in the gut even after treatment, leading to potential reinfections. The source of these reinfections is likely the GI tract, which produces a strong immune response but cannot be cured.
A new DNA study suggests that the drastic change in vegetation from protein-rich herbs to less nutritious grass may be behind the demise of mammoths and other large mammals. The study shows that the mammoth steppe was dominated by herbs during the last ice age, which may have led to a decline in animal populations.
A study by researchers at the University of California, Irvine found that interleukin-22 enhances the growth of dangerous bacteria like Salmonella while curbing the growth of healthy gut bacteria. This unexpected finding suggests that a protective immune response can actually aid the growth of harmful pathogens.
Researchers from RIKEN in Japan have identified a duo of histone proteins, TH2A and TH2B, that dramatically enhance the generation of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs). The study demonstrates that these proteins function as substitutes for two Yamanaka factors and increase iPSC cell generation by twentyfold and speed up the process.
A study by American Society of Nephrology reveals domoic acid, a neurotoxin found in seafood, can harm kidneys even at levels considered safe for consumption. The toxin damages kidneys at concentrations 100 times lower than what causes neurological effects, raising concerns about potential kidney failure and dialysis.
A new study published in Epilepsia found that early treatment with antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) significantly reduces the duration of febrile seizures. The research suggests that a standard Emergency Medical Services (EMS) treatment protocol is needed in the US to improve outcomes for children with prolonged seizures. A total of 199 pedi...
A team of scientists has discovered the structure of the NS1 protein, which helps dengue and West Nile viruses replicate and evade the immune system. The researchers believe this breakthrough could lead to the development of a vaccine that protects people without increasing their risk.
Unusual dry spell in Northern Sumatra triggers use of slash and burn method to clear fields. Seven hot spots identified in oil palm plantations and forest concessions, fueling fears about the connection between fires and agricultural practices.
A new study tracks the spread of an H5N1 variant in Egypt using phylogeography, a technique that combines viral sequence data and geographical information. The study aims to enhance efforts by public health officials to identify viral outbreaks, limit their spread, and inform the public of risks.
A team of researchers has found a link between chloracne and a molecular switch called Nrf2, which causes skin changes similar to those in dioxin victims. The study suggests that therapeutic targeting of Nrf2 may be problematic due to its role in detoxification.
The Algae Biomass Organization has published a new standard for measuring algae industry operations, establishing a common language for describing economic and environmental impact. The updated standards will help compare diverse algae technologies and their commercial production scale.
A large-scale study of whole-genome testing has identified a unique treatment approach for women with advanced breast cancer, targeting genomic alterations in their tumors. The study found that around half of patients had targetable genomic alterations, and 39% had rare alterations, many of which no treatments currently exist.
A study found a link between a mutation in the RAB24 gene and canine hereditary ataxia, a neurodegenerative disease affecting dogs. The findings may help understand neurodegenerative diseases and identify new treatments for both canine and human sufferers.
Researchers at LA BioMed have reported promising results with the investigational antifungal isavuconazole in reducing mucormycosis infections. Isavuconazole was found to be as effective as high-dose liposomal amphotericin B, a current treatment option, in disease models.
A University of South Florida study found that a nutritional supplement containing blueberries and green tea improved cognitive processing speed in older adults without impairing memory. The supplement, NT-020, was tested on 105 healthy adults aged 65 to 85, with modest improvements seen after two months.
Berkeley researchers provide detailed picture of Cas9's three-dimensional shape, showing radical change in structure upon binding to guide RNA. This breakthrough enables rational design of new and improved versions of Cas9 enzymes for basic research and genetic engineering.
Researchers at IST Austria found loose coupling between calcium channels and sensors in a specific synapse, challenging the view that it's a developmental phenomenon. This discovery has implications for synaptic plasticity and the function of neurotransmission.
Fetal mice exposed to maternal immune system inflammation show signs of brain damage lasting into adulthood, raising questions about sex-based mechanisms. Researchers suggest that chronic inflammation may play a role in inhibiting proper brain development, potentially explaining why more males have diseases like autism and schizophrenia.
Researchers discovered a genetic mechanism controlling the production of a large spike-like protein on staph bacteria that prevents clumping and reduces disease-causing ability. The study suggests targeting clumping behavior for therapy, potentially reducing staph infections.
Researchers at Columbia University Irving Medical Center found a toxin released by star-shaped brain cells called astrocytes that kills nearby motor neurons, leading to neuron loss in human ALS models. The study suggests new potential for slowing down or stopping the destruction of motor neurons and improving drug targets.
A groundbreaking study published by George Mason University and Indiana University found that nearly all (92.6 percent) gay and bisexual men reported being in love with their partner during a recent sexual event. The study also revealed that men who were in love with their partners experienced sex as more pleasurable.
A credit card-sized device has been developed to process tissue biopsies for 3-D imaging, which can provide a more complete picture of the cellular makeup of a tumor. This technology could potentially reduce diagnosis time to minutes and improve prognosis for pancreatic cancer patients.
The National Science Foundation and Science journal announced 18 winners of the 2013 International Science & Engineering Visualization Challenge. The contest showcased captivating visualizations of complex scientific concepts, including wearable energy storage and brain mapping.
Researchers analyzed genetic variation in the X chromosome to understand individual differences in traits such as height, BMI, and blood pressure. They identified a genetic variant near ITM2A that affects cartilage development and is more prevalent among shorter individuals, with stronger effects on women.
Researchers have made a significant discovery that could lead to the development of an effective RSV vaccine, a major cause of infant mortality worldwide. The team designed artificial proteins capable of stimulating an immune response against RSV using a new software app.
Researchers identified a protein that broadly regulates mRNA editing, enabling the creation of multiple proteins from a limited number of genes. This discovery may help understand genetic mechanisms of diseases and identify new therapeutic targets.
Researchers aim to make blood cancers more vulnerable to treatment by targeting the hiding spots where leukemia cells reside. Initial focus is on blood vessels, which provide a safe haven for these cells.
Hot and dry conditions in Victoria sparked a rash of bushfires in the Snowy River National Park area, with fires spanning over 27,000 acres. Authorities are warning residents of another potential fire season this weekend.
Researchers at Case Western Reserve University are converting the laser hot-wire welding process into a high-output 3D additive manufacturing process with partners Lincoln Electric and other industry leaders.
Researchers at Queensland University of Technology have developed a world-first onboard system that enables unmanned aircraft to detect other aircraft using vision while in flight. The system provided real-time warnings back to the ground control station, resulting in a successful collision avoidance manoeuvre. The technology has the p...
A new study uncovers ADR-1 as a critical regulator of RNA editing, allowing genetic information diversity and affecting numerous human diseases. The protein's binding ability enhances mRNA editing, with decreased expression linked to neurological disorders and cancers.
Researchers aim to create personalized models for individual patients using their clinical data, enabling prediction of disease progress. The goal is to tailor treatment and improve healthcare outcomes for Parkinson's sufferers.
A team of researchers is working to improve the outcome of surgical repairs for large rotator cuff tears in older patients by studying the natural attachment of tendon to bone. They plan to use advanced imaging methods and mechanical testing to understand how the natural tendon-to-bone insertion works and what goes wrong in healing.
Researchers found that water molecules in carbon nanotubes don't flow continuously but instead move intermittently, resulting in surprisingly high flow rates. This phenomenon resolves a long-standing issue in fluid dynamics and has potential industrial applications for desalination and other uses.
Researchers at The Scripps Research Institute found a protein, Protein M, that attaches to antibodies and prevents them from binding to their target, helping bacteria evade the immune response. This discovery could lead to new antibacterial therapies and tools for research and drug development.
Researchers at Oregon State University confirmed a correlation between ocean salmon's migration patterns and the Earth's magnetic field, revealing an innate navigation system. The study found that juvenile salmon can detect and respond to magnetic fields, using them to determine their location and direction.
Researchers found that oxytocin, the birth hormone, naturally reduces chloride levels in neurons, controlling the expression of autistic syndrome. Administering a diuretic treatment before birth corrects abnormal chloride levels and restores brain activity to normal levels.
Research in zebrafish reveals that loss of brain asymmetry can significantly impact sensory processing. The study found that reversed brain asymmetry resulted in functional changes to habenular neurons, while double-sided brains lacked responsiveness to certain stimuli.
Researchers have created a rapid, affordable diagnostic test for cryptosporidiosis using recombinase polymerase amplification (RPA) technique. The test can detect the presence of even one parasite in a sample, with high accuracy rates, and requires minimal equipment.
The Greenland Ice Sheet is experiencing rapid ice loss, driven by ocean warming and increased surface melting. This phenomenon can lead to fresh water input into the North Atlantic Ocean, potentially disrupting global climate circulation patterns.
A new study reveals that girls with NF1 are at greater risk of vision loss from brain tumors, while boys are more vulnerable to learning disabilities. The research identifies gender-linked differences in male mice that may help explain these findings.
MIT researchers create a microfluidic platform that mimics the spread of breast cancer cells into a bonelike environment. The study found that certain molecules, such as CXCL5 and CXCR2, may encourage cancer cell metastasis, potentially leading to new targets for cancer therapy.
Researchers at Gladstone Institutes develop technique to replenish destroyed ß-cells in animal models, showing promise for a permanent solution to manage type 1 diabetes. The study uses regenerative medicine to transform skin cells into insulin-producing pancreas cells.
Scientists have discovered how the prostate gland develops for the first time, identifying 80 genes and a signalling pathway involved in its growth. The finding provides potential targets for new therapies to combat common prostate diseases, including prostate cancer.
A University of Texas at Arlington team has uncovered that mutations and interactions among three genes create a wide variety of color variations in domestic pigeons. The study found two independent deletions near the Sox10 gene produce recessive red pigmentation, hinting at a slippery gene.
Researchers found that intratracheal transplantation of human umbilical cord blood-derived mesenchymal stem cells can prevent or treat bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) in very preterm infants. The treatment also showed a lower incidence of retinopathy of prematurity requiring surgery.
A team of researchers used DNA testing to analyze preserved plant remains from the permafrost, finding that large ancient mammals roamed areas with abundant forbs. This discovery provides new insights into how these massive animals survived extreme cold conditions.
A new study reveals a previously undefined immune pathway in humans that provides vital information for designing vaccines and medicines to combat bacterial infections. The research found that T-cells can respond defensively to bacterial attacks without specific antigens, leading to a maximal response and improved survival.
Researchers at Case Western Reserve University have developed a multifunctional nanoparticle that enables MRI to pinpoint blood vessel plaques caused by atherosclerosis. The technology is a step toward creating a non-invasive method of identifying vulnerable plaques in time for treatment.
The CLIMBER dataset provides unique information on the climatic niche characteristics of 397 European butterflies, obtained by combining detailed distribution data and public climatic datasets. This knowledge is essential for understanding species' relationships with their environment and assessing the impacts of global change.
A study by University of Warwick researchers found that high-quality human embryos secrete a chemical signal, trypsin, which supports implantation. Low-quality embryos trigger an alarm response, leading to pregnancy loss or complications.
A new study published in Nutrition Reviews found that certain probiotics can significantly reduce LDL-cholesterol and improve other coronary heart disease risk factors. L. reuteri NCIMB 30242 (Cardioviva) was found to be the most effective, with results similar to those of existing therapeutic lifestyle change dietary options.
Researchers at the University of Utah identified three key genes controlling feather color in domestic rock pigeons, which also influence human skin pigmentation. The study found that variations in these genes result in diverse feather colors, with specific combinations explaining a significant amount of color variation across pigeon b...
A new review published in Nutrition Journal found that dietary supplement users engage in various healthy habits, such as consuming healthier diets and exercising regularly. The study also showed that supplement users tend to make better food choices and incorporate supplements into their lifestyle as part of a broader focus on wellness.
A team of researchers discovered that ancient microbes used a process similar to photosynthesis to produce methane 2.5 billion years ago, long before oxygen became available. This finding may have implications for understanding climate change, agriculture, and human health.
A new study from Columbia University found that hospitals are not following evidence-based guidelines for preventing health care-associated infections. Despite decades of research, approximately one in 10 hospitals lack checklists to prevent certain infections, and these checklists are followed only half the time. The study's findings ...
A Cedars-Sinai research team led by Paul W. Noble is developing a novel approach to treat idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, a disease that destroys the lungs and damages vital organs. The two-year study aims to build upon preliminary research and uncover the precise way normal lung stem cell repair occurs.