Scientists have developed a technique to survey the fission yeast genome in relation to cell shape, microtubule organisation, and cell cycle progression. The study reveals new links between hundreds of genes and these cellular processes, including a previously unknown connection between DNA repair machinery and microtubule stability.
According to a WSU study, nearly one in five US adults suffer from persistent pain, with significant economic and social costs. Persistent pain affects daily life, work, family, and social interactions, increasing the risk of mental illness and addiction.
A study by CWRU researcher Joseph Galanek found that training correctional officers on mental illness symptoms improves prison safety, security, and humane treatment of inmates. The research showed that trained officers could use their discretion to respond to mentally ill inmates without rigidly enforcing prison rules.
Researchers at the University of California, San Diego, have developed a new process for self-driving phospholipid membrane assembly, similar to those found in living cells. This non-enzymatic technique can be used for artificial cell studies and potentially for drug delivery packets.
Patients treated first with metformin were less likely to require treatment intensification compared to those who started with sulfonylureas, thiazolidinediones, or DPP-4 inhibitors. Metformin also reduced the need for added insulin and was not associated with increased rates of hypoglycemia or cardiovascular events.
A pair of mathematicians from France propose a system of ordinary differential equations to optimize running strategies. The model uses physiological parameters and energy conservation principles, allowing for the prediction of ideal race performances.
Researchers used taxi GPS data to analyze NYC traffic patterns and study the city's response to Hurricane Sandy. They found that re-entry processes following disasters cause significant delays, highlighting the need for post-disaster transportation management.
A new study published in Circulation found that replacing saturated fat with polyunsaturated fat reduces the risk of coronary heart disease by 9% and death from CHD by 13%. The researchers analyzed data from 310,602 individuals and found that higher intake of linoleic acid resulted in a lower risk of CHD.
Researchers at Penn State College of Medicine found that both agave nectar and a placebo were more effective than no treatment for young children's cough symptoms. The study suggests that giving children something to drink, like sugar water or honey substitute agave nectar, may help alleviate their discomfort.
A study found that Staphylococcus aureus uses protein A as a superantigen to activate many B cells, leading to immune tunnel vision and reduced protection against infection. This knowledge can inform future vaccine approaches to combat MRSA.
Tropical Storm Ana has moved west of the Hawaiian Islands and into the open waters of the Central Pacific Ocean, strengthening into a hurricane and weakening back to a tropical storm. The storm is expected to bring strong winds and heavy rainfall to British Columbia's central coast, with wind warnings posted along some coastal sections.
Researchers found changes in metabolic activity of key brain region after successful treatment with psychodynamic therapy. Patients who completed therapy had a greater than 50 percent reduction in depression symptoms.
A new study shows that Integrated Play Groups are effective in teaching children with autism to interact with peers and engage in symbolic play. The model, developed by Pamela Wolfberg, focuses on collaborative rather than adult-directed activities, allowing children to learn social skills through interactions with peers.
Astronomers have discovered a pulsar that emits an incredible amount of energy, shining brighter than previously thought possible. This find challenges the previous assumption that ultra-luminous X-ray sources are likely black holes.
A study published in JAMA Pediatrics found that agave nectar and placebo were perceived to be more effective than doing nothing in treating nighttime cough and sleep disturbance in infants and toddlers. Researchers compared treatment with agave nectar, placebo or no treatment at all on symptoms.
A long-term study shows that KoACT, a unique patented calcium collagen product, reduces bone loss and builds new bone in post-menopausal women. The study found significant improvements in bone health compared to calcium and vitamin D supplementation.
A Johns Hopkins study finds that US operating rooms discard an estimated $15 million annually in usable surgical supplies, which can be salvaged and donated to alleviate global shortages. These donations can also reduce waste and environmental impact at home.
A new EU-funded consortium aims to develop new economic models for antibiotic R&D and define responsible use of dwindling antibiotics. The DRIVE-AB project involves 11 European countries and partners across industries to address the global threat of antibiotic resistance.
A UC Irvine-led study has revealed that a gene called grainyhead triggers a repair pathway for psoriasis lesions. The researchers found that targeting this mechanism may lead to pharmaceutical products that limit the itchy, painful lesions of psoriasis.
Research at Children's Hospital Los Angeles found that obese patients with acute lymphoblastic leukemia are more than twice as likely to have minimal residual disease, a strong predictor of long-term survival and disease recurrence. The study suggests modifying chemotherapy regimens for obese patients may improve outcomes.
A small study found that ultrasound biofeedback was effective in correcting 'r' speech errors when children were allowed to make different shapes with their tongues. The treatment involved using ultrasound images as a guide for tongue manipulation and adjustments to achieve better pronunciation of the sound.
Researchers have discovered the path the remaining 2 million barrels of oil from the 2010 Deepwater Horizon disaster followed to its resting place on the Gulf of Mexico sea floor. The study found that the oil is concentrated in a thin layer at the sea floor, with deposits most extensive to the southwest of the Macondo Well.
A study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences found that infants at 7 months old can distinguish between fearful and non-fearful eye expressions, indicating an early ability to detect social cues. This suggests that brain processes for automatic eye recognition develop during infancy.
The Canadian Task Force on Preventive Health Care recommends against using the PSA test to screen for prostate cancer in most men, citing an increased risk of false positives and overdiagnosis. The guideline aims to balance potential benefits with substantial harms.
A study in mice reveals that dysfunctional ketogenesis promotes fatty liver disease, characterized by excessive hepatic glucose and lipid production. The findings suggest targeting ketogenesis could be a viable approach to treating NAFLD.
Scientists at Brigham Young University have developed a natural treatment using phages to protect baby bees from American Foulbrood, a deadly disease that kills off larvae and leads to hive collapse. The researchers identified five phage candidates for honeybee treatment, providing a potential alternative to antibiotics.
A new RAND Corporation study estimates that informal caregiving for elderly people in the US comes to $522 billion a year. Replacing this care with paid options would cost $221 billion or $642 billion annually.
Researchers developed a random transmission model to determine how disease progression and case fatality affect transmission and patient isolation. Isolating the sickest Ebola-infected individuals before they progress into their late phase of illness can effectively eliminate the Ebola epidemic in Liberia.
Researchers estimate approximately 2 million pounds of recoverable medical supplies exist annually in nonrural US academic medical centers. Donations from the SHARE program could alleviate global surgical disease burdens and reduce environmental impact domestically.
Researchers will develop algorithmic methods and models to aid in complex DNA mixture interpretation, including identifying multiple contributors and determining match strength. The goal is to achieve accurate and reliable methods for interpreting forensic data from physical evidence.
A new study by University of Houston researchers found that religious beliefs and practices may reduce suicidal thoughts among African-Americans, particularly in cases of racial discrimination. The study suggests that extrinsic religiosity can buffer the negative effects of racism on mental health.
Researchers at Case Western Reserve University have been awarded a $250,000 grant to study the use of nanotechnology in treating pediatric glioma brain tumors. The team aims to develop targeted and less toxic treatment strategies for this devastating disease.
Recent findings from the LHCb Collaboration at CERN suggest that Bs meson particles may hold the key to understanding the imbalance of matter and antimatter in the Universe. The research, led by Sheldon Stone, presents a promising new avenue for exploring charge-parity [CP] violation and its implications for particle physics.
A clinical study found that high levels of TMAO, a chemical byproduct of intestinal bacteria digestion, are linked to an increased risk of heart failure and poor long-term prognosis. Patients with low TMAO levels had a lower mortality rate despite advanced heart failure symptoms.
A recent survey conducted by C.S. Mott Children's Hospital found that mothers are more likely than fathers to read nutrition labels when considering food and drink purchases. Nearly half of mothers report checking the labels always or very often for added/total sugars.
Researchers have successfully observed atomic positions and electron distribution during the transformation of vanadium dioxide from a semiconductor to a metal. This achievement marks the first time that experiments can distinguish between atomic-lattice structure changes and electron relocation at ultrafast speeds.
Joint Bioenergy Institute researchers improve isopentenol tolerance and production in E.coli, a key step towards cost-effective microbial biofuel production. The study identifies two genes, MetR and MdlB, that improve isopentenol production by 55% and 12%, respectively.
Researchers at UCSB and WHOI have identified a 1,250-square-mile patch of the deep sea floor where 2-16 percent of the discharged oil was deposited. The oil fell in thin deposits most intensive to the southwest of the Macondo well.
Genetics expert Muntaser Ibrahim's research on human genetic variation and population structure sheds light on disease susceptibility, offering potential insights into novel vaccines. His studies have identified key gene variants that can protect against malaria and other infectious diseases.
A national study found that prescription opioids were involved in 67.8% of opioid overdoses in emergency departments, while heroin accounted for 16.1%. The study also highlighted the importance of healthcare providers prescribing opioids with caution to patients with pre-existing conditions.
A study by Johns Hopkins researchers reveals that a form of calmodulin plays an active role in opening and closing ion channels, contrary to previous thought. This finding could lead to new treatments for disorders such as cardiac arrhythmias, epilepsy, and Parkinson's disease
Eight new research projects will explore various techniques for detecting dementia, including microstructure-sensitive MRI and graphene-based biosensors. The projects aim to develop diagnostic tools that can identify biomarkers of dementia at the point of care.
Research suggests that men who have slept with more than 20 women may have a lower risk of prostate cancer, while those with multiple male partners are at higher risk. The study found a 28% reduction in prostate cancer risk for men with many female partners and a twofold increase in risk for those with multiple male partners.
Patients who received newly donated blood had significantly fewer post-operative complications than those who received older blood, according to a Canadian study. The study found that patients given only new blood fared better in terms of re-operation for bleeding, ventilation duration, infection, renal failure, and death.
A new study by University of Utah anthropologist Shane Macfarlan challenges the idea that humans naturally fight like chimpanzees. Instead, Yanomamö men form long-term alliances with other villages through marriage and cooperation, which leads to increased social status and benefits.
A CU-Boulder study suggests that modern hearing aids can distort music due to advanced processing designed for speech. Researchers found that simpler hearing aids with minimal processing allowed users to enjoy music more, despite reduced sound quality.
A study of over 3,000 patients found that non-Caucasian groups have higher rates of cardiovascular risk factors, such as diabetes and high blood pressure. However, South Asians, East Asians, and Blacks reported lower awareness of these risks compared to Caucasians.
A study presented at the Canadian Cardiovascular Congress found that people with mental health disorders are twice as likely to develop heart disease or stroke. The study also showed that psychiatric medications and unhealthy behaviors contribute to this increased risk.
Astronomers have taken the first time-lapse images of an expanding fireball from a 'nova' star, providing new insights into this rare celestial phenomenon. The data reveal that the fireball expands at a rate faster than previously predicted, engulfing a region comparable to Earth's orbit within a day.
A study by University of Montreal researchers found that 33% of children who were reunited with their families after being placed in foster care were abused or neglected again. The study identified age and the back-and-forth between biological families as significant factors contributing to maltreatment recurrence.
Tropical Depression 9 reformed into Tropical Storm Hanna, becoming a 'zombie' storm that brought strong thunderstorms and heavy rainfall to Nicaragua and Honduras. The National Hurricane Center issued a tropical storm warning for the area, predicting life-threatening flash floods and mudslides.
Researchers have developed a device that can detect markers of kidney disease and prostate cancer in urine samples, offering instant results and potentially higher accuracy. The device uses DNA sequences to latch onto disease markers, allowing for early detection at ultra-low concentrations.
Researchers found that patients who received more accessible primary care had better health-related quality of life and improvements comparable to eliminating early complications of diabetes. Women particularly benefited from doctors being more available, leading to stronger health improvements.
The Brain & Behavior Research Foundation honored Herbert Pardes with its inaugural Humanitarian Prize for his significant contributions to the field of mental health. The prize recognizes Dr. Pardes' tireless work in education, prevention, treatment, and advocacy, as well as his championing of empathic healthcare.
A Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology (EMPA) team has developed a chemical navigation system that uses the Marangoni effect to find the quickest route to a destination. By applying acid and alkaline liquids with dyes, the system creates a color trail that indicates the shortest path.
Breast cancer patients taking brand name aromatase inhibitors had higher discontinuation rates and nonadherence compared to those on generic AIs. Higher copayments of $15-$30 per month were also linked to discontinued use.
Researchers have discovered a new drug combination that disrupts two key signaling pathways that drive breast cancer growth, showing promise in treating the disease. The combination of rapamycin and dasatinib was found to be more effective than using either drug alone in killing tumors.
The study reveals that social resources and connections play a critical role in shaping a neighborhood's resilience. Residents who have strong social ties are more likely to report their neighborhood is well-prepared for future disasters, indicating higher confidence in long-term recovery.
Researchers used landscape genetics to study Ae. albopictus dispersal in the US, finding it traveled by 'jump' dispersal via cars and trucks along highways, with wetlands supporting mosquito growth. The discovery highlights human-aided gene flow's role in accelerating species adaptation.
Researchers at Tel Aviv University have discovered a connection between innate immune system genes and ovarian longevity, which could lead to new treatments for fertility issues. Neutralizing the effects of a key protein may slow down egg destruction and improve IVF success rates.
Parents can learn scientifically validated autism therapy through group classes, improving their children's language skills and reducing stress. The treatment involves rewarding the child for trying to talk, with benefits including improved happiness and a sense of community.
A new drug delivered through a skin patch has shown promise in healing diabetic foot ulcers and preventing their recurrence. The drug increases the protein HIF-1α, which helps form new blood vessels needed for wound healing.
Two new studies from Johns Hopkins shed light on how complex cells detect and respond to minute differences in chemical concentrations. Cells use their internal 'skeleton' to influence gradient detection and movement, with implications for development, immune response, wound healing, and cancer metastasis.
Tropical Cyclone Nilofar intensifies to hurricane strength with maximum sustained winds of 75 knots (86 mph/139 kph), centered near 15.2 north latitude and 62.2 east longitude.
A new study by Simon Fraser University researchers suggests that Canada's consideration of activity-based funding for hospitals may lead to a 'sicker and quicker' discharge of patients, increased readmissions to hospital, and strain on post-acute care services. The study concludes that governments should exercise caution before impleme...
A study by Northwestern University found that influential colleagues can boost the adoption of new treatments in doctors, with a sweet spot of reminders every five to seven days. The research aimed to accelerate physicians' adoption of new treatments and tests, which can take up to 17 years.
Researchers suggest that asymptomatic individuals may benefit from treatment for thyroid dysfunction to reduce associated health risks. However, the effectiveness of thyroid screening is still unknown, and further studies are needed to inform an updated recommendation.
The International Osteoporosis Foundation has published a succinct slide deck highlighting 60 original scientific abstracts presented at the ASBMR meeting in September 2014. The slide kit provides clinically focused research on various aspects of bone health, including osteoporosis treatment and new strategies.
Researchers at Wayne State University are working on a grant-funded project to design molecular vaccines for Type 1 diabetes and other autoimmune diseases. They aim to use a novel approach called 'hitchhiking' to deliver therapeutics to specific sites in the lymph nodes.
A new study found that future-oriented women are the voting bloc most strongly motivated to invest in reducing global warming. They tend to be more politically liberal, value the environment, believe in global warming, and are willing to pay more to mitigate climate change.
Astronomers observed unprecedented nova images that show the expanding thermonuclear fireball is more complicated than predicted. The research collaboration measured the nova on 27 nights over two months using CHARA's high-resolution telescopes, revealing an ellipticity of 13% and a rapid expansion rate of over 600 km/s.
Researchers at Rice University have made significant breakthroughs in the study of synthetic collagen fibers, demonstrating how they self-assemble through their sticky ends. The discovery could lead to improved synthetic collagens for tissue engineering and cosmetic medicine.
A new study found that two-thirds of health websites recommending prostate cancer screening aligns with medical organizations' stance. Many online resources advocate for patient-individualized approaches, while some sites advise against screening due to potential risks.
A study published in International Scholarly Research Notices (ISRN) Stroke found that overall knowledge about stroke in Uganda is poor. Researchers surveyed 1,600 residents and discovered three-quarters were unaware of stroke risk factors and warning signs, or recognized the brain as the affected organ.
A study found that maintenance opioid agonist therapy with methadone or buprenorphine reduced the incidence of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection in young injection-drug users. The treatment strategy is crucial for preventing the spread of HCV among this high-risk group.
Researchers create a learning network of wheelchair-mounted robotic arms and human users to improve daily activities, satisfaction, and quality of life for people with spinal cord injuries. The project aims to maximize human-robot learning and address ethical issues related to assistive technology.
Researchers found that generic aromatase inhibitors increased treatment adherence by 50% compared to brand-name counterparts, while also decreasing co-payment costs. The study highlights the critical need to address medication non-adherence, particularly in the context of costly oral cancer therapies.
Two studies by Belgian scientists investigate thermodiffusion's impact on binary and ternary mixtures, paving the way for studying multi-component mixtures in orbit. The findings also have implications for oil reservoirs and carbon capture technologies.
Researchers have discovered that multiple viruses share an L-shaped switch in their RNA genomes, which can be flipped to prevent replication. The discovery has implications for developing new drugs to inhibit viral replication, particularly for hepatitis C virus.
Researchers identified a suite of odorants that the Asian citrus psyllid detects, which can modify its behavior. The developed odor-based lure caught nearly 230 percent more ACP than conventional yellow traps.
Researchers found that both those receiving low offers and making low offers experienced stress, compared to those who made more generous offers. This suggests a link between emotional state and decision-making in economic situations.
A new study by the American College of Surgeons recommends that older trauma patients receive palliative care to address their physical, emotional, social, and spiritual needs. The study found that elderly trauma patients have unrecognized needs for palliative care, which can improve their quality of life and alleviate pain.
A new study published in the Journal of Clinical Investigation has found a significant link between hair keratin mutations and an increased risk of dental decay. Individuals with mutations in hair keratin genes are prone to cavities, with abnormal tooth enamel structures contributing to weakness.
A recent traumatic brain injury (TBI) is associated with an increased risk of developing dementia in middle-aged and older adults. The study found that moderate to severe TBI was linked to higher dementia rates at age 55, while mild TBI at age 65 increased the risk.
A study on newborn mice reveals a previously unknown mechanism involving bone growth and muscle contraction that rapidly realigns fractured arm bones. This finding could lead to alternative approaches for treating fractures in adults, improving treatment outcomes by reducing side effects like muscle atrophy.
Researchers found that chimpanzees strategically plan their breakfast time and location based on environmental factors and food availability, taking risks to secure desired fruits. The study reveals the complexity of chimpanzee cognitive behavior in complex environments.
A live attenuated ETEC vaccine candidate given with a novel adjuvant provided significant protection against disease, with a 58.5% efficacy rate against diarrhea of any severity. The vaccine also showed protective efficacy of 65.9% against severe ETEC diarrhea.
Researchers found that erlotinib, a targeted drug for advanced-stage lung cancer, can increase the aggressiveness of tumors in early-stage patients, leading to accelerated growth and decreased survival rates. The study suggests combining an EGFR inhibitor with a Notch inhibitor may overcome this effect.
Researchers have made significant breakthroughs in developing vaccines and new drugs for parasitic worm infections, which affect over 300 million people worldwide. Paul Brindley, a GW University researcher, is adapting new technologies to combat these diseases, highlighting the need for urgent action.
A randomized trial found ibuprofen to be a safer and more effective option for managing fracture pain in children, with fewer adverse events compared to oral morphine. The study involved 134 children aged 5-17 and concluded that ibuprofen remains a viable therapy for outpatient management of children's fracture pain.
The University of Texas at San Antonio has been awarded a grant to develop a DHS Scholars Program aimed at addressing biological and digital threats. The program will select exceptional students for research training in areas such as infection genomics, cloud computing, and digital forensics.
A study published in JAMA Internal Medicine found that maintenance opioid agonist therapy with methadone or buprenorphine reduces the incidence of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection among young injection-drug users. The treatment was associated with a lower risk of HCV transmission, highlighting its potential as a prevention strategy.
A new study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences found that even stringent fertility restrictions or catastrophic mass mortality would not significantly reduce the world population by 2100. Instead, researchers suggest focusing on policies and technologies that reverse rising consumption of natural resources...
Researchers have identified the normal function of the TEM5 protein, which is crucial for embryonic blood vessel development. The findings suggest that TEM5 could be a good target for anticancer drug therapy and potentially improve drug treatment for brain diseases by temporarily disabling the blood-brain barrier.
A recent study found that asthma medications are associated with more and more serious adverse drug reactions in children, especially compared to clinical trials. The European ADR database shows a high share of serious ADRs in this population, highlighting the need for improved prescribing and monitoring practices.
Chronic mental stress, obesity, and inflammation contribute to excessive sodium retention in blacks, increasing the risk of heart damage. Researchers aim to develop effective therapeutic strategies to treat this condition by testing angiotensin receptor blockers and other treatments.
The International Union of Immunology Societies is urging urgent funding and implementation of Ebola vaccine trials. Several promising vaccine candidates, including Cad3 Ebola and rVSV-ΔG-ZEBOV, are being tested in phase 1 clinical trials, showing safe and efficient results in non-human primates.
Researchers identified FoxO1 as a key molecule regulating cell division in vascular wall cells, leading to pulmonary hypertension. Boosting FoxO1 activity has been shown to normalize pathological cell division and potentially cure the disease in rats.
A new study found that chest radiation in childhood cancer patients increases their risk of developing breast cancer later in life. Nearly 20% of female survivors who received chest radiation developed breast cancer by age 40 compared to 0.3% of those who did not receive radiation.
A new study reveals that nearly half of all genes in the mouse genome oscillate on a 24-hour schedule, targeting daily-oscillating genes. The research provides important clues about how drug efficacy can be optimized by timing of delivery.
The Baums' theory proposes that eukaryotic cells evolved through a process where internal structures formed outside the ancestral cell, eventually giving rise to the nucleus and other membrane compartments. This gradual path challenges existing theories and offers a new perspective on complex life evolution.
A new study by researchers at The Kinsey Institute and the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center has found that having young children in the house can help women experience fewer hot flashes and night sweats during menopause. This unexpected benefit may be linked to increased oxytocin levels, associated with nurturing care.
A large active region on the sun erupted with an X-class flare on October 27, 2014, its fourth since October 24. The flare was part of a week-long series of substantial flares beginning on October 19.
A recent University of Delaware study has found that Adélie penguin chick weights are most closely linked to local weather conditions, including high winds and precipitation. The researchers discovered a significant impact on chick weight variations over time, with even small changes in weather causing notable differences in chick mass.
A team of Rice University engineers and social scientists has developed a new electronic voting system that aims to be both secure and easy to use. The STAR (Secure, Transparent, Auditable and Reliable) system is designed to address the looming crisis facing elections officials nationwide as they replace aging voting systems.
Scientists at LSU have made a breakthrough in understanding photosynthesis by analyzing two critical plant proteins, PsbP and PsbQ. The study reveals how these proteins interact to facilitate oxygen production, providing new insights into the process.
Researchers at Max Planck Institute discover that neurotransmitter vesicles are already in close contact with the cell membrane before fusion occurs. This discovery provides insight into how synapses rapidly transmit information and could lead to new medical research benefits.
A study of 100 US airports found that only 37% provided a specific lactation room and even fewer met basic requirements like electrical outlets and seating.
A nationwide study will test whether treatment with a statin drug can reduce the elevated risk of cardiovascular disease in individuals infected with HIV. The REPRIEVE trial aims to investigate the preventive effects and underlying mechanisms of statin therapy in this population.
Researchers will explore biological tools to enhance the immune system's ability to attack HIV infection, which persists in brain cells despite antiviral treatments. The goal is to enable the immune system to eliminate HIV infection through innovative therapies.
A recent study published in the Journal of Experimental Psychology: Learning, Memory, and Cognition found that making meaningful errors while learning can benefit memory. When participants made near-miss guesses related to the correct answer, they performed better on later memory tests. In contrast, random or unrelated mistakes hindere...