A 10-week psychoeducational wellness program improved mood, overall mental health, perceived stress, and pain in people with multiple sclerosis. The study, published in the International Journal of MS Care, suggests that individuals with MS may benefit from comprehensive wellness programs.
A recent study by Brandeis University found that overweight individuals experience higher levels of stress-induced inflammation, which can contribute to chronic diseases. The researchers measured interleukin-6 (IL-6) levels in normal-weight and overweight individuals during psychological stress tests.
The US Multi-Society Task Force on Colorectal Cancer released new consensus guidelines highlighting the importance of good bowel cleansing for high-quality colonoscopy. The guidelines aim to reduce missed precancerous lesions and increase patient safety, with an 85% target for adequate cleansing rate.
A recent study by the Society of Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry identified key knowledge gaps in understanding pharmaceutical and personal care product (PPCP) impacts on ecosystems and human health. The priority areas include research on human health exposure, as well as regional testing methods for measuring PPCPs in the envir...
A study published in CMAJ found that metformin increases the risk of low thyroid-stimulating hormone levels in patients with hypothyroidism. Metformin monotherapy was associated with a 55% increased risk of low TSH levels compared to sulfonylurea therapy.
A new study by Nationwide Children's Hospital found that 34% of major trauma patients are undertriaged in the United States. The most common diagnosis for undertriaged patients is traumatic brain injury, affecting over 40%. Increasing trauma center capacity by 51% would be needed to accommodate all undertriaged patients.
Researchers have found that stars that oscillate at the same frequency as gravitational waves can absorb energy from those waves and brighten temporarily. This effect could provide scientists with another method to indirectly detect gravitational waves.
A new class of antibiotics could be developed using the anticonvulsant drug lamotrigine, which inhibits bacterial ribosome assembly. Researchers at McMaster University discovered that lamotrigine stops ribosomes from being created in bacteria, a breakthrough in tackling antibiotic resistance.
A new study reveals that the US physician payment system is not inherently biased towards surgeons and procedure-performing doctors. The difference in pay between specialties arises mostly from differences in the number of minutes allocated to each service by Medicare's formula, which takes into account estimated times for work.
Researchers at Emory University discovered that platelets can 'feel' their environment and respond by increasing stickiness, leading to the formation of clots. Modifying material stiffness could reduce clot formation in medical devices.
The USPSTF recommends intensive behavioral counseling to reduce risky sexual behaviors among all sexually active adolescents and adults at risk for STIs. Chlamydia and gonorrhea screening is recommended for young women under 24 and older women at increased risk, including pregnant women.
Researchers have discovered that the smell of cut grass signals distress and summons parasitic wasps to protect plants from insect attacks. The volatile organic compounds also play a role in drought tolerance and can help breeders develop new crop varieties with improved resistance to insects and drought.
A study of 3,481 patients with intracerebral hemorrhage found that inpatient statin use was associated with lower mortality rates and higher discharge rates to home or rehabilitation. The study suggests that continuing statin therapy after brain hemorrhage may be beneficial for improved outcomes.
A new study suggests that measuring how fast the brain responds to sights and sounds can help classify people on the autism spectrum and diagnose the condition earlier. The study found a strong correlation between the speed of processing auditory signals and the severity of autistic symptoms.
Researchers identify Pex22p module as key component in peroxisomal Ub machinery, boosting enzyme import and degradation of pollutants. This discovery sheds light on peroxisomal disorders like Zellweger syndrome and highlights the importance of reevaluating familiar proteins.
A study published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal found that South Asians in Canada have a higher prevalence of heart disease, with rates of death from coronary artery disease being 42% for men and 29% for women. The study also highlighted the need for standardized surveillance systems to monitor non-communicable diseases a...
The WEGA fusion device is being transferred to the University of Illinois for further research and development. The device will be re-assembled as HIDRA and used for plasma physics and fusion research.
A U-M study found that almost three-quarters of parents are aware of online rating sites and over a quarter use them to choose healthcare providers for their children. The researchers also discovered that positive online ratings strongly influenced the likelihood of selecting a child's physician, while negative reviews had little impact.
Researchers at Yale University have discovered a microRNA mimic, miR-29, that can reverse the effects of pulmonary fibrosis in mouse models. The treatment uses intravenous delivery and has shown sustained effects on lung tissue. Further studies are needed to evaluate its therapeutic potential for human idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis.
Grand Challenges Canada announces $2.4 million in grants for 22 innovative projects addressing maternal, newborn and child health globally. These projects include programs improving infant nutrition, malaria diagnosis, and vaccine storage, as well as initiatives to combat iron deficiency and improve access to healthcare.
A recent study published in BMC Evolutionary Biology found that food affected by the Fukushima nuclear disaster harms animals, even at low levels of radiation. Researchers fed pale blue grass butterflies leaves collected from areas varying distance from the disaster site and investigated the effects on the next generation. The study sh...
Researchers developed a new search algorithm that enables robots to find and navigate to tagged household objects using ultra-high frequency radio-frequency identification (UHF RFID) tags. The system allows the robot to play a 'hot-or-cold?' game to determine its direction, reducing complexity and increasing accuracy.
Researchers at University of California, San Diego aim to develop a whole eye transplant technique that can reconnect the eye's neuronal wiring to the brain. The goal is to treat patients with vision restoration due to structural or functional problems in the eye.
According to a new University of Michigan C.S. Mott Children's Hospital National Poll on Children's Health, the format of concussion education is linked to parents' confidence about managing their child's injury. Parents who watched videos or presentations rated them as very useful, while those who only signed waiver forms did not.
Tropical Depression Polo weakened significantly, with maximum sustained winds decreasing to near 35 mph, and is expected to dissipate by September 26. Swells generated by the storm will subside late on September 22, affecting the southern Baja California peninsula.
In the summer of 2014, wildfires burned an area three times larger than usual in Khabarovsk Krai, Russia, with 12,600 forest fires spanning 1.8 million hectares
Researchers developed a tool that uses mass spectrometry imaging to identify fatty acid substances in breast tissue, distinguishing between cancerous and normal tissue. The study found several fatty acids were more abundant in breast cancer tissue compared to normal tissue.
A new study by Dr. Flora Matheson found that women who are involved in their discharge planning have a higher chance of successfully reintegrating into society. The study highlights the importance of stable and trusting relationships with parole officers and access to positive social support networks.
Hurricane Odile brought extreme rainfall to Mexico's Baja California peninsula and southwestern United States, with estimated totals reaching almost three feet. The TRMM satellite analyzed real-time data to track the storm's impact, revealing highest rainfall totals of over 160 mm in northwestern Texas.
Researchers discovered that antifreeze proteins found in Antarctic fish also prevent internal ice crystals from melting, leading to potential health issues. The study found that these protein-bound ice crystals resist melting even when temperatures warm, causing superheating.
The journal tackles past, current and future concepts of sports concussion through advocacy, education, prevention, treatment and groundbreaking research. Recent studies show that persistent post-concussion symptoms may arise from structural or metabolic alterations in the brain.
A new study confirms that maternal breast milk is a primary source of postnatal cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection in very low-birth-weight (VLBW) infants. The researchers found that CMV-seronegative and leukoreduced blood transfusions effectively prevent transmission, but breastfeeding from CMV-positive mothers poses a significant risk.
University of Minnesota researchers have created a nanoscale device capable of capturing and transporting fundamental particles of light called photons. The discovery could lead to the development of faster and more energy-efficient optical devices.
A study published in JAMA Pediatrics found a strong link between cytomegalovirus (CMV) and maternal breast milk in very-low-birth-weight (VLBW) infants. CMV was detected in 76% of mothers, with 27 out of 28 postnatal infections occurring among infants fed CMV-positive breast milk.
Researchers at University of North Carolina Health Care developed a blood test that identifies individuals at high risk for developing psychosis. The test measures immune and hormonal system imbalances, as well as oxidative stress, and shows promise in predicting the development of severe mental disorders like schizophrenia.
Researchers have identified a better measure of predicting cancer neoepitopes, which are specific protein sequences recognized by immune cells. This new approach has the potential to improve current methods for generating anticancer vaccines, increasing their effectiveness in combating cancer.
A study published in the Journal of Family Issues found that less supportive and punitive Chinese parenting techniques can lead to negative outcomes in children, including low self-esteem and school adjustment difficulties. The research contradicts the idea that traditional 'Chinese' upbringing is superior and highlights the importance...
Researchers describe cassava, also known as tapioca, as an ideal alternative to corn for starch sweeteners due to its high yields and accessibility. The article highlights the potential of converting tapioca starch into sugars using various enzymes and processing steps.
Engineers at the University of Pittsburgh's Swanson School of Engineering are proposing enhanced modeling and simulation technology and new qualification standards for additive manufacturing. The research aims to improve quality and product integrity while reducing manufacturing time and costs.
The study found that hardwiring AHA guidelines into an electronic ordering system resulted in a significant reduction of telemetry orders, with a 70% decrease in average weekly orders and a 57.8-hour reduction in telemetry duration. The average daily cost for non-ICU cardiac telemetry also decreased substantially.
A new research study published in JAMA Pediatrics analyzed the effects of different exercise programs on obese youths. The study found that combining aerobic exercise with resistance training resulted in significant weight loss and reduced body fat compared to other exercise programs or diet-only control groups.
Tropical Storm Fung-Wong moved through East China Sea, weakening to 40 knots near Shanghai, before curving towards South Korea. The Joint Typhoon Warning Center expects Fung-Wong to become extra-tropical by Sept 24 or 25, leading to dissipation.
Researchers developed modular components that can be snapped together to build 3-D microfluidic systems, simplifying the construction process and reducing costs. The components are inspired by electronics industry technology and use 3D printing to create standardized modules with various functions.
Researchers challenged the long-held principle that separate groups of nerves and receptors are responsible for distinct components of touch. They found that all types of afferents contribute to the overall sensation, regardless of specific textures or shapes. This new understanding has far-reaching implications for the study of somato...
Researchers have discovered a way to create a metal layer on silicon that can lead to faster computing without overheating. The new topological insulator could enable the development of quantum computers and spintronic devices that are billions of times faster than conventional computers.
Researchers found that Arctic sea ice helps remove large amounts of CO2 from the atmosphere through chemical processes. The discovery suggests that every winter, newly formed sea ice forms flower-like structures called frost flowers, which hold high concentrations of calcium carbonate and can impact the potential CO2 uptake in the Arctic.
A systematic review supports the use of deep brain stimulation (DBS) for patients with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) who don't respond to other treatments. Bilateral DBS techniques are recommended for carefully selected patients, improving OCD symptoms by around 30 percent.
A study by researchers at the UC Davis MIND Institute found that mothers of children with autism are less likely to report taking iron supplements before and during pregnancy. The risk is five-fold greater in children whose mothers had low supplemental iron and other risk factors for delivering a child with ASD.
Researchers use fossils to reconstruct ancient ecosystems on the Bahamian island of Abaco, where megafauna like crocodiles and tortoises once flourished. The study's findings suggest that reptiles played a dominant role in these ecosystems, providing vital clues for conservation efforts.
Researchers developed a T-MOC device to study tumor-microenvironment interactions, enabling the testing of nanoparticles and drugs targeting cancer. The chip can mimic human tumors, providing insights into targeted delivery methods.
A prospective, longitudinal study found that single family room NICUs provide optimal levels of maternal involvement, developmental support, and staff involvement, leading to better medical and neurodevelopmental outcomes for preterm infants. Infants cared for in single family rooms had improved weight gain, fewer medical procedures, l...
The Gauss von Mises (GVM) distribution offers improved predictive capabilities for tracking infrequently-observed space objects. This new approach allows for more accurate prediction of satellite and debris locations, enabling better resource allocation and detection of potential collisions.
A recent study published in JAMA Neurology found that patients treated with statins after suffering a hemorrhagic stroke were more likely to survive than those who weren't. The researchers also discovered that stopping statin treatments for these patients may carry substantial risks.
The Brain & Behavior Research Foundation has awarded 200 NARSAD Young Investigator Grants to promising young scientists, valued at over $12.7 million, to conduct groundbreaking neurobiological research on psychiatric disorders affecting one in four people.
Researchers will examine the relationship between open clinical records and wrong patient errors to determine best CPOE system formats. The study aims to identify optimal record openness settings to prevent medical errors.
A University of Utah study suggests that stories told over firelight helped human culture and thought evolve by reinforcing social traditions and promoting harmony. Researchers analyzed scores of daytime and firelight conversations among !Kung Bushmen, finding that nighttime discussions involved more storytelling and imaginative thought.
Research found that workers experiencing high levels of job insecurity were more likely to develop asthma. The study, based on a German survey, indicates a potential link between psychological stress and new onset asthma.
A new study published by Oregon State University researchers found that a compound called xanthohumol, found in hops and beer, enhances cognitive flexibility in young mice. However, it had no effect on older mice or their learning and cognitive performance.
A new review published in PNAS reveals that Americans view scientists as competent, but not entirely trusted. To gain public trust, scientists should focus on conveying warm intentions and expertise, rather than persuasive agendas. The study's findings highlight the importance of warmth and trustworthiness in scientific communication.
Researchers at Dartmouth College have developed a new approach to computer security using a wearable device called ZEBRA, which authenticates users continuously and automatically logs them out when they leave. The technology has shown high accuracy rates in verifying the correct user and identifying adversaries.
A survey of over 30,000 European nurses found that extended shifts and overtime lead to lower standards of care, safety, and missed necessary patient care. Nurses working long shifts are 30% more likely to report poor quality of care compared to those working traditional eight-hour shifts.
The study, published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, uses control theory to analyze heart rate data from athletes and found that a healthy heart must maintain certain patterns of variability during exercise to keep the body in balance. This variability is essential for maintaining homeostasis and preventing fati...
A comprehensive review of sports concussions highlights the evolution of concussion treatment and research, from helmets to rule changes. Neurosurgeons emphasize the importance of helmet safety and cultural changes in reducing head injuries.
Researchers discovered a way to boost sensitivity of graphene-based sensors by exploiting the unique electronic properties of grain boundaries. By analyzing these imperfections, scientists created an 'electronic nose' that can detect single gas molecules, revolutionizing chemical sensing applications.
Research suggests that sponsorship of nutritional supplements and sports drinks at sporting events may be misleading the public about their health benefits. The lack of strong scientific evidence for these products' effectiveness raises concerns about their value and cost.
Rutgers will develop programs to expose graduate trainees to non-academic careers in the biomedical science and engineering ecosystem. The university's successful application was submitted jointly by CIVET and GSBS, guiding researchers in practical application and commercialization.
Arctic sea ice coverage reached its annual minimum of 1.94 million square miles in September 2014, the sixth lowest recorded since 1978. The summer started cool and lacked intense storms or persistent winds, contributing to the low extent.
A new RAND Corporation study found that only about one quarter of commercially-insured children treated for ADHD also receive psychotherapy, with significant variation in receipt of talk therapy across counties. The study highlights the need for improved access to behavioral therapy for children with ADHD.
A low-cost intervention educating teens about the malleability of personality traits may prevent increases in depressive symptoms. The study found that students who learned about personality change showed no increase in depressive symptoms, even if bullied.
The King Fire is an arson-caused fire that began on Sept. 13, 2014, fueled by hot, dry conditions, large amounts of fuel, and winds. It has grown to 82,018 acres in size and is currently 17% contained, prompting evacuations of over 2,800 people
Researchers at USC isolated a transcription factor, FBH1, that modulates circadian rhythms based on temperature, allowing plants to adapt to changing environments. This discovery could lead to heartier plants better equipped to deal with climate change.
The Visio.M consortium presents a safety package for compact electric vehicles, providing a safe compartment and passenger protection through advanced materials and sensor systems. The integrated safety concept uses radar and camera sensors to recognize critical situations and activate protective measures.
A four-year National Science Foundation-funded project aims to resolve the evolutionary relationships of zygomycetes through genome sequencing, fossil analysis, and bioimaging. The project will also develop educational resources highlighting the importance of this poorly known group of fungi.
A partial smoking ban at a homeless shelter led to reduced expired carbon monoxide levels, indicating less smoking and/or secondhand smoke exposure. Residents supported the policy change, with most smokers believing it would improve resident health.
Researchers have identified variant straw plants with highly digestible cell walls, paving the way for cost-effective and sustainable biofuels. These discoveries could help ease pressure on global food security and reduce carbon emissions, making them a promising solution to address climate change.
A UGA study found that employees who feel excluded at work engage in harmful behaviors like cheating and lying to enhance their group's performance. These actions can affect the bottom line and undermine productivity. Organizations can prevent this by addressing internal dynamics and norms.
A Northwestern Medicine study found that people drink more alcohol on days when they exercise, particularly Thursdays to Sundays. The study used smartphone technology to record daily physical activity and alcohol use, and found uniform results across age groups.
A novel study by Singapore researchers found that an increase in the Leo1 gene affects genes directly implicated in acute myelogenous leukaemia (AML), increasing cancer incidence. Inhibition of Leo1 and downstream signalling pathways offer a targeted treatment approach.
Research shows that influenza A potentiates pneumococcal co-infection by enhancing the bacterium's ability to colonize the nasopharynx and infect the middle ear. This interaction leads to increased inflammatory responses, allowing pneumococci to flourish in the host environment.
The American Association for Thoracic Surgery has released new evidence-based guidelines for preventing and treating perioperative and postoperative atrial fibrillation. The guidelines aim to reduce the incidence of POAF, which is associated with longer hospital stays, increased morbidity, and mortality.
A new study of 1074 cancer patients who smoke found that e-cigarette use did not help with quitting traditional cigarettes. The study, published in the American Cancer Society journal, found a three-fold increase in e-cigarette use among smokers over two years.
A new study found that pregnant women's immune cells produce more cytokines and chemokines when exposed to flu viruses, leading to a hyperinflammatory response. This unexpected finding highlights the need for new treatment approaches for severe influenza in pregnancy.
Researchers found evidence that the Zhada Basin in southwest Tibet lost 3,000 to 5,000 feet of elevation around 3-4 million years ago. This finding was confirmed using ancient snail shells and clumped isotope thermometry techniques.
Research found that environment plays a significant role in the development of eosinophilic esophagitis, a severe and often painful food allergy. The study also identified several environmental risk factors, including food allergies and high twin birth-weight difference.
The use of generic discount drug programs (GDDPs) has grown significantly since their introduction in 2006, with a notable increase in racial/ethnic minorities. GDDPs can help reduce medication costs and improve access to drug therapy for vulnerable populations.
A new study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association finds that reducing fossil fuel consumption can lead to cleaner air, increased physical fitness, and improved public health. The analysis highlights opportunities for co-benefits between climate change mitigation and human health.
A Massachusetts General Hospital study analyzed circulating tumor cells and found increased expression of extracellular matrix genes, which could be a novel therapeutic target for pancreatic cancer. The study also identified distinct classes of pancreatic CTCs with unique gene expression patterns.
Researchers at Sandia National Laboratories have produced a trillion fusion neutrons using the MagLIF technique, which uses magnetic fields and a laser to preheat hydrogen fuel. The achievement demonstrates the viability of this novel approach for achieving break-even fusion.
A NYU study found that a classroom intervention program helps shy children improve their math and critical thinking skills, with effects substantially greater for shy kids compared to control group peers. The INSIGHTS program teaches teachers to recognize individual temperaments and support differences.
A new study finds that healthy lifestyle habits, including a balanced diet and regular exercise, can prevent four out of five coronary events in men. Researchers followed 20,721 Swedish men for 11 years and found that those with low-risk behaviors had significantly lower risk of heart attack.
Researchers at Tel Aviv University discovered that a genetic form of deafness is caused by the absence of thyroid hormone during development. The study found structural and molecular defects consistent with hypothyroidism or disrupted thyroid hormone action in affected mice.
Researchers at the University of Bonn discovered a previously unknown nerve cell shape that allows signals to be transmitted directly from dendrites to axons, bypassing the cell body. This unique structure facilitates faster and more efficient communication between neurons.