Researchers at Washington State University found that cinnamon oil is effective in killing several strains of E. coli, including non-O157 STEC, which causes approximately 110,000 cases of illness annually. The oil can be incorporated into films and coatings for packaging meat and produce to eliminate microorganisms.
Stroke patients use a new device that creates a neural signal matching their brain's movement signal, helping regain wrist movement. The device adapts to individual reflex levels and is MRI-compatible, allowing for future studies on brain activity during rehab.
A new study published in JNCI: Journal of the National Cancer Institute found that breast cancer screening costs increased substantially among older women between 2001 and 2009, despite unchanged detection rates of early-stage tumors. The study analyzed data from the SEER-Medicare linked database and found a significant increase in scr...
A 16-year study reveals that the Azore islands are becoming a crucial part of the Atlantic whale shark's habitat due to rising ocean temperatures. The researchers found that increased sightings were correlated with higher water temperatures and seafloor features, such as slopes and seamounts.
The guidance emphasizes best practices for implementing and optimizing hand hygiene programs, including using soap and alcohol-based hand rubs, stressin' hand hygiene at critical moments, and empowering healthcare personnel. The updated evidence-based recommendations aim to clarify the state of the science behind recommended hand hygie...
A new study has found that the dispersant compound DOSS, used in the Deepwater Horizon spill, persists in the environment for up to four years, remaining associated with oil and affecting marine ecosystems. The persistence of DOSS in deep-sea sediments, corals, and sand patties on Gulf beaches indicates a need for further research into...
Researchers at Washington University School of Medicine have discovered a potential target for malaria drug development by identifying a key protein involved in the parasite's protein secretion process. Disrupting this protein, heat shock protein 101 (HSP101), prevents the parasite from secreting its proteins into the red blood cell.
Researchers found that adding potassium supplementation to loop diuretics increases survival rates by 16 percent in patients receiving at least 40 mg/day of furosemide. The benefit is more pronounced with higher diuretic doses. While the study's findings are promising, further independent studies are needed to confirm these results.
Mathematician Julius Barbanel and political scientist Steven Brams developed an algorithm to divide goods like cake and land between two people, ensuring equal pieces and no envy. The cut-and-choose method uses probability density functions to determine portions, making it efficient, equitable, and jealousy-free.
Researchers found that motivation, crystallized knowledge, and compensatory mechanisms can help maintain cognitive function in older adults. Contrary to popular beliefs, older adults may not be more susceptible to consumer fraud.
Researchers at Monash University have developed a novel test using Fourier Transform Infrared (FITR) spectroscopy to detect malaria parasites in blood. The technique uses an anti-tank Javelin missile detector to identify infected red blood cells, providing highly detailed information on a sample area in minutes.
A recent study published in JNCI: Journal of the National Cancer Institute found that contralateral prophylactic mastectomy (CPM) may confer only a marginal life expectancy benefit depending on the type and stage of cancer. The procedure was more beneficial for younger women and those with stage I and ER-negative breast cancer.
Researchers at the University of Oregon have identified a brainstem circuit in mice that links visual processing with physical movement. The discovery suggests that active movement can enhance sensory perception, potentially leading to new treatments for motor dysfunction and neuroplasticity enhancement.
A new study suggests that niacin should no longer be prescribed for most patients due to potential increased risk of death and dangerous side effects. The therapy was found to have no benefit in reducing heart attacks and strokes, despite raising HDL cholesterol levels.
A new study found that electronic health record algorithms can accurately identify patients with undiagnosed hypertension. The study used automated office blood pressure testing and notified healthcare staff when a patient was at risk, leading to formal diagnoses and related conditions in over 90% of cases.
A meta-analysis of 88 studies on deliberate practice found that it explains 26% of the variance in performance for games, 21% for music, and 18% for sports. While practice improves performance, other personal factors also play a role in predicting success.
A study by Yale University researchers found that obese women were impaired in learning associations between food cues and rewards, but normal-weight individuals and men did not show the same impairment. This suggests a specific behavioral intervention targeting food-specific learning impairments may be effective in treating obesity.
A study of 15,792 US adults found a significant decrease in stroke incidence and mortality rates over two decades, with decreases seen across age groups. The decline was attributed to improved control of risk factors such as hypertension, smoking cessation, and diabetes management.
Researchers discovered that hidden differences in neural circuits can account for varying responses to brain injury. The study used sea slugs and found that artificially rewiring the neural circuit made some animals susceptible or invulnerable to injury.
Chemists have made a breakthrough in visualizing hydrogen bond interactions, which play a key role in biological molecules and pharmaceuticals. Using two-dimensional infrared spectroscopy techniques, researchers directly observed the coordinated vibrations between hydrogen-bonded molecules.
Researchers have found that mental health patients are at their highest risk of dying by suicide in the first two weeks after leaving hospital. The study, which analyzed data from 2002 to 2012, shows that around 3,225 patients died by suicide within three months of discharge, with 526 deaths occurring within the first week.
A study examined the interest level of over 300 African American adults in genetic testing for alcohol dependence susceptibility, with some expressing concern over privacy and testing methods. The results suggest that more research is needed to address these concerns and establish effective genetic counseling strategies.
Researchers used shotgun metagenomics to sequence DNA from a calcified nodule in a 700-year-old skeleton, recovering the genome of Brucella melitensis, a disease causing fevers and arthritis. The ancient strain was closely related to recent strains found in Italy, providing insights into medieval infections.
Researchers found that adolescent males desire intimate and caring relationships, expressing vulnerability and dependence, and placing great importance on trust. The study provides a nuanced understanding of adolescent males' early relationships, which contrasts with traditional portrayals of younger male behavior.
Scientists have found that the spotted green pigeon and dodo are descended from 'island hopping' ancestors, according to a new study. The birds show signs of semi-terrestrial lifestyle and ability to fly, with genetic links to other island-dwelling species.
A study found that physicians in Ontario, Canada were more likely to be registered for deceased organ donation than matched citizens or the general public. The majority of registered physicians, 47%, were more likely to register due to younger age and female status.
A new study has identified a previously unknown mechanism used by neurons to survive, which is also hijacked by brain cancer cells. The discovery may lead to new investigations of brain cancer treatments and provide insight into Parkinson's disease.
A new algorithm-based method uses EMR data to identify patients with newly diagnosed HIV infection, improving clinical outcomes. The method was validated and tested on patients undergoing HIV testing from 2006-2012.
Researchers at Purdue University have identified a soybean gene that affects plant stem growth, leading to improved soybean cultivars for the northern United States. The discovery could result in semideterminate soybeans that are better suited to the region's climate and growing conditions.
A new study by researchers from NIST and the Hollings Marine Laboratory found that persistent organic pollutants (POPs) are not linked to fibropapillomatosis, a disease causing tumors in green sea turtles. The team detected halogenated phenols in turtle tissues, suggesting these compounds may be coming from algae in their diet.
A new study found a possible genetic link between cerebral palsy and family ties, with increased risks seen in twins, first cousins, and closer relatives. The study identified a stronger recurrence rate among co-twins of affected children and families with an affected single child.
A new mathematical model suggests that implementing Xpert MTB/RIF as part of a more ambitious rollout strategy, including private sector engagement and referral networks, could reduce TB incidence by 14.1% in India. The current narrow implementation strategy is expected to only reduce incidence by 0.2%.
Researchers found that engaging stakeholders early, being pragmatic rather than perfect, using existing research networks and delegating tasks can help streamline healthcare research. These streamlined mechanics allowed the project to complete data collection in under 18 months.
Researchers used sociometers to analyze social interactions of men and women in two settings, finding that women were more collaborative and talkative when working together, but not necessarily more talkative overall.
Scientists transplanted inhibitory neuron progenitors into two mouse models of Alzheimer's disease, improving learning and memory abilities. The treatment replenished brain cells lost due to apoE4, regulating brain activity.
A new raptorial dinosaur fossil named Changyuraptor yangi has shed light on how larger-bodied dinosaurs took to the air, with exceptionally long feathers playing a crucial role in safe landings. The 125-million-year-old fossil, found in China, confirms that flight preceded the origin of birds and was not limited to small animals.
Researchers found that blood clots are rare in children undergoing spine operations, and most patients can be safely monitored without anti-clotting medication. High-risk groups include children with congenital scoliosis or spinal curvatures part of a syndrome, as well as older children.
A WPI research team will test a plant-based therapy for malaria that may be highly effective and low-cost. The therapy uses dried leaves from the sweet wormwood plant, Artemisia annua.
Chrysophanol alleviated hippocampal neuronal cytoplasmic edema and improved learning and memory abilities in lead-exposed neonatal mice. The compound also reduced oxidative stress markers and increased antioxidant defenses.
Researchers at Saint Louis University discovered that deleting disordered sections of a protein's structure reveals the molecular mechanism of blood clotting. By crystallizing prothrombin, they found that the deleted version is activated to thrombin faster and provides key information on the mechanism of prothrombin activation.
Researchers discovered cholesterol's activation of a signaling pathway linked to cancer growth and division. Elevated cholesterol levels may selectively promote cancerous pathways, providing a new mechanism for cancer risk.
A new study found that over 80% of oral health patients are willing to receive rapid HIV-testing in dental settings. The test can be done with a simple finger prick or saliva swab and results available within 20 minutes. This could help inform people who aren't aware they're HIV-positive and reduce the spread of the virus.
A systematic review of 17 research studies found that outdoor spaces can reduce residents' agitation and provide environments for relaxation and social interaction. Gardens could offer welcome spaces for visitors to stimulate memories for dementia patients.
Individuals with Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD) experience heightened fear of rejection due to their appearance, leading to diminished quality of life. The study found associations between BDD severity and depressive symptoms, poorer mental and physical health.
Dr Zulfiqar Bhutta believes that criminal sanctions are necessary to deter research misconduct, citing high rates of scientific misconduct and significant human health consequences. However, Dr Julian Crane argues that criminalization would undermine trust in research and is not an effective deterrent.
Researchers at Rice University developed a single-molecule sensor using Raman spectroscopy and an optical amplifier, amplifying the optical signature of molecules by about 100 billion times. This technique has the potential to identify unknown molecules without prior information.
Typhoon Rammasun made landfall in the eastern part of central Philippines on July 15, with NASA's Aqua and TRMM satellites tracking its eye close to landfall. The storm brought moderate to heavy rainfall across the region, with cloud top temperatures indicating potential for severe weather.
Researchers have discovered a way to create thermoelectric materials with low thermal conductivity by incorporating porous substances. This design allows for more efficient conversion of heat to electricity, making it a promising material for future green tech devices.
The researchers created a series of 3D prototypes with boron nitride, predicting enhanced strength, toughness, and heat transfer. The 3D nanostructure offers customized applications and potential for efficient gas storage and separation.
Researchers at Kansas State University have found that bacteria can acquire iron from the environment using tiny protein loops on their surface. These protein loops are similar to fingers and can open or close to grab iron molecules, allowing the bacteria to establish an infection.
A telephone-delivered telecare intervention improved chronic musculoskeletal pain compared to usual care, with nearly twice as many patients experiencing a 30% reduction in pain score. The intervention was associated with clinically meaningful improvements in pain and treatment satisfaction.
Prostate cancer in younger men is more frequent and aggressive, with tumors growing quickly. Genetic mutations are a key factor in these cases, which may require increased surveillance or counseling.
The Van Allen Probes have found a two-fold process that accelerates particles in the radiation belts, with an initial boost followed by electromagnetic waves called Whistlers. This mechanism helps explain how electrons reach intense speeds, damaging spacecraft and affecting astronauts.
A new study published in JAMA found that patients enrolled in a 12-month telecare program experienced significant improvement in chronic pain management, with twice the likelihood of pain reduction compared to usual care. The program also showed increased patient satisfaction.
Researchers assess emergency radiology response after Boston Marathon bombings, highlighting critical role of medical imaging in emergency situations and ways to improve preparedness for mass casualty events. Imaging played a vital role in evaluating extensive shrapnel injuries with X-ray and CT scans.
Researchers have successfully created mutant worms that cannot get intoxicated by alcohol, opening up new possibilities for treating alcohol withdrawal. The modified human alcohol target used in the study only affects its response to alcohol, leaving other functions intact.
A study by University of Illinois researchers found that TB-infected elephants have different immune responses to the infection compared to those without it. The team developed a new method to detect cytokine mRNA in elephants, which could lead to faster and more accurate diagnosis of tuberculosis in captive elephants.
Researchers detected age-related changes in lateral ventricular width and periventricular white matter using DTI, which may correlate with cognitive and sensory motor deficits. The study published in Neural Regeneration Research found increases in fractional anisotropy value related to ventricle enlargement.
Researchers found that adolescents who showed a higher reaction in their amygdala while viewing negative images were more likely to develop PTSD symptoms after the Boston Marathon bombing. The study's findings suggest that brain activity before a traumatic event can predict a person's response to it.
Intravenous transplantation of BMSCs has been shown to promote nerve cell regeneration in injured cerebral cortex, supplementing lost nerve cells. This study provides evidence for the potential use of BMSCs as a therapeutic option for traumatic brain injury treatment.