A new study by UC San Francisco researchers found that people who sleep six hours a night or less are four times more likely to catch a cold compared to those who spend more than seven hours in slumber. The study used objective sleep measures and found that short sleep was the most significant factor in predicting illness.
A new study from Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory found that gaming computers consume 20% of global PC energy use, but can be optimized for up to 75% energy savings through setting changes and component swaps. By doing so, gamers can improve reliability and performance while reducing their carbon footprint.
A randomized controlled trial found that a self-management support service improved patients' symptoms and recovery scores. The program combined behavioral therapy with recovery-oriented approach, focusing on achieving life goals despite symptoms. Participants showed significant improvements compared to usual care.
The new Northwestern University Center for Cancer Nanotechnology Excellence will use nucleic-acid-based nanoconstructs called Spherical Nucleic Acids (SNAs) to discover new aspects of cancer biology and create effective cancer treatment options. SNAs are nontoxic to humans, offering a versatile tool in medicine.
A University of Illinois study finds that single mothers earn significantly less than single fathers, widening the gender gap. Single mothers are more likely to live in poverty and struggle financially due to lack of child support, whereas single fathers tend to be better off financially after a divorce.
Researchers found that infection with multiple founder HIV-1 variants results in significantly higher mean viral loads and poorer clinical outcomes. The study analyzed data from two large HIV vaccine efficacy trials and showed that the number of variants at the beginning of infection affects the setpoint for viral load.
Researchers at Princeton and MIT have used computer models to predict the potential storm surge waters for three cities: Tampa, Cairns, and Dubai. The study found that powerful storms could generate dangerous storm surges in all three cities, with odds of 1 in 10,000 in an average year.
Research reveals a four-fold increased risk of in-hospital cardiovascular mortality in AMI patients with respiratory infections. Respiratory infections were associated with longer hospital stays, more severe clinical presentations, and higher incidence of arrhythmias and reinfarction.
A recent study presented at ESC Congress found that young women with diabetes have a six-fold risk of heart attack. The research, which analyzed data from over 7,000 women, also revealed that smoking was the leading risk factor for young women with myocardial infarction.
Researchers from the University of Chicago have developed a novel approach to control enzyme activity using monobodies, synthetic proteins that recognize and bind specific target molecules. They successfully altered the specificity of an enzyme used in the food industry without modifying it, paving the way for bespoke reactions.
Research by UNH scientists finds that appearance alone is not enough to identify hybrid zone birds; DNA analysis reveals complex combinations of plumage traits. The study provides insights into the challenges of monitoring hybrids in natural populations and aids in conservation initiatives for both species.
A sub study of the MR CLEAN trial found that patients with larger thrombi had better neurological recovery after intra arterial treatment. Thrombi size was associated with clinical outcome, and retrieving larger pieces may lead to improved patient results.
A research team used ancient-DNA analysis and radiocarbon dating to reconstruct population histories for prehistoric seabirds in New Zealand. They found that mainland populations were rapidly decimated after human arrival, while Stewart Island populations remained relatively stable due to a decline in human numbers.
The Mayo Clinic Cancer Center has been awarded a Specialized Program of Research Excellence (SPORE) grant to study the genetic basis of multiple myeloma and develop novel therapies.
Scientists at Kyoto University developed an approach to assemble DNA origami units into larger structures by using a double layer of lipids. This method allows for more freedom of movement and interaction between origami structures, enabling them to form nanomachines such as nanomotors for targeted drug delivery
Researchers discovered that chronic stress strengthens traumatic memories in the brain, leading to PTSD. Blocking this process with serotonin-blocking drugs may offer a new treatment option for the disorder.
Researchers from the Canadian Museum of Nature and Fisheries and Oceans Canada describe a new species of giant file clam, Acesta cryptadelphe, found in deep waters off Newfoundland. The clam is genetically distinct from other known species, with characteristics similar to scallops.
Scientists have successfully used gene therapy to fully restore vision in a mouse model of Leber congenital amaurosis-1, a genetic disorder causing severe visual impairment. The treatment, which replaced the deficient retGC1 protein, showed long-lasting results and supports clinical testing for human patients.
A study found that island-dwelling Balkan green lizards have a longer small intestine and hindgut compared to their mainland counterparts. They also possess cecal valves, which slow down food passage and provide fermenting chambers, allowing them to digest more plant material.
COPD patients who used a digital health application experienced fewer and less severe exacerbation symptoms, improving daily symptom control, lung function, and activity status. The application allowed for same-day treatment recommendations from healthcare providers.
SLU researcher Nicola Pozzi is seeking to understand the molecular mechanisms of prothrombin and thrombin to develop more effective life-saving drugs. The research builds on previous breakthroughs in blood-clotting protein structure, which may lead to a better understanding of how prothrombin is converted to thrombin.
Researchers at Columbia University Medical Center have discovered a gene variant, APLP2, that increases the risk of myopia in children who spend more time reading. Spending time outdoors is found to reduce this risk.
Scientists have created a tool that can identify thousands of chemosensory receptors stimulated by specific smells in various species, from mice to flies. This breakthrough could help unravel the logic of chemosensory code across animal species and has countless applications, including understanding behaviors triggered by odorants.
Engineers at UC San Diego developed a mouth guard that monitors health markers in saliva, transmitting data wirelessly to smartphones. The technology could be used to continuously monitor patients without invasive procedures or athletes' performance.
Researchers at the University of Toronto have identified the process of endocytosis as a key driver of rapid embryonic healing, which coordinates cell movement to close wounds. This discovery holds promise for developing more efficient treatments for human wound repair.
Researchers find that using a monoclonal antibody to block the 'eat me' signal on malignant cells triggers a more potent immune response in dendritic cells, which then activate killer T cells and boost adaptive immunity. The study suggests a new approach for developing an effective cancer immunotherapy.
A recent study found that adding adenosine triphosphate to pulmonary vein isolation treatment for atrial fibrillation did not significantly reduce late recurrences of the condition. The study, which included 2,113 patients, used ATP to identify and address potential gaps in electrical conduction around the pulmonary veins.
A new protein (C5orf30) has been identified as a genetic marker for rheumatoid arthritis severity, allowing for early diagnosis and targeted treatment. This breakthrough discovery has the potential to improve patient outcomes and reduce tissue damage caused by the condition.
A recent trial published at ESC Congress 2015 found that patient education programs did not significantly impact apixaban adherence. Adherence rates were high across both the control and education groups, with minimal difference observed between the two.
The ALBATROSS study found that mineralocortoid receptor antagonists do not provide a benefit to heart attack patients without heart failure. However, in a subgroup of STEMI patients, MRA treatment may have a potential mortality benefit.
A new trial suggests that pacing may not be effective in preventing cardiac remodeling and improving functional or clinical outcomes in patients with large myocardial infarctions. The study, known as PRomPT, found no significant difference between patients who received pacing and those who did not.
The CIRCUS trial found that cyclosporine did not reduce all-cause death, hospitalization for heart failure, or adverse left ventricular remodelling in STEMI patients undergoing PCI. The study suggested that targeting reperfusion injury remains a major challenge for PCI cardiologists.
A new protein (C5orf30) has been identified as a genetic marker that can help regulate the severity of tissue damage caused by rheumatoid arthritis. This discovery enables early identification of patients at risk of severe joint damage, allowing for fast-tracked treatment with more aggressive therapies.
A new Phase III clinical trial indicates cariprazine may treat negative symptoms associated with schizophrenia, including lack of emotion and social withdrawal. Researchers found a statistically significant improvement in the PANSS-NFS scale relative to risperidone after 26 weeks of treatment.
A study found that obese individuals' brains show different connectivity patterns when craving food compared to normal-weight individuals. The researchers discovered a link between increased brain activity and weight gain in obese subjects.
A unique study found that testosterone therapy induces structural changes in areas of the brain involved in verbal fluency in female-to-male transsexuals. This may suggest that sex hormones play a substantial role in shaping human brain structure, beyond early developmental phases.
The study found that immune cell-mediated thrombotic processes are a realistic target for novel therapies to prevent stent thrombosis. Leukocyte infiltrations were hallmarks of both early and late ST, with neutrophils being the most prominent subset.
Research by Dr. Kristian Kragholm found that bystander CPR was associated with a 30% lower risk of nursing home admission and brain damage in survivors of out-of-hospital cardiac arrest. The study included 2,387 adult survivors who did not have pre-existing conditions or live in a nursing home before the cardiac arrest.
A study of over 17,000 patients found that nearly all survivors were achieved within 35 minutes of CPR, with longer resuscitation efforts offering little benefit. The researchers recommend continuing CPR for at least 35 minutes in out-of-hospital cardiac arrest cases to achieve maximum survival and favorable neurological outcomes.
An 11-year study of over 425,000 patients found that atrial fibrillation's contribution to ischemic stroke risk was negligible in those with multiple comorbidities. The study suggests that stroke prevention should focus on the combined effects of multiple risk factors rather than a single factor.
Researchers found that ezetimibe, when added to a statin, significantly reduced the risk of future ischemic stroke, heart attack, and cardiovascular death in patients with diabetes who had an acute coronary syndrome. Ezetimibe also lowered LDL-cholesterol levels by 43mg/dL after one year.
A small left ventricle with thick walls is the strongest predictor of morphologic remodelling, a first step towards heart failure. This unexpected finding could change risk stratification among patients with stable coronary artery disease.
A study of over 25,000 cardiac arrest patients found that increased AED usage and accompanying initiatives led to higher bystander defibrillation rates in public locations. However, a significant increase was not observed in residential areas, where most out-of-hospital cardiac arrests occur.
Research found higher levels of inflammatory markers in young adults living in polluted cities, indicating a greater risk of heart attack. Long-term air pollution exposure was linked to increased levels of CRP, hsCRP, homocysteine, and fibrinogen.
Patients with atrial fibrillation who received antithrombotic management according to ESC guidelines had better outcomes than those who did not. Guideline-adherent patients had significantly lower rates of major adverse events during one year follow up compared to over- or under-treated patients.
A subgroup analysis of the IMPROVE-IT trial found that ezetimibe significantly reduced the chances of future major cardiac or vascular events in patients with diabetes by 14% compared to placebo. Ezetimibe added to a statin lowered LDL cholesterol at 1 year, resulting in lower risks of cardiovascular events.
The BELIEF study shows that left atrial appendage (LAA) isolation, combined with standard treatment, significantly improves the success rate of catheter ablation for long-standing persistent atrial fibrillation. LAA isolation reduces AF recurrence rates by 30% compared to standard treatment alone.
Research presented at ESC Congress found a strong association between cold weather and severe heart attacks in Winnipeg, Canada. A 6-year study showed that each 10°C drop in temperature increased the risk of ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) by 7%.
A large-scale study found that cold weather is associated with an increased risk of ischemic stroke in patients with atrial fibrillation. The risk was highest during winter months and lowest in summer, with a 10% increase in risk for every 5°C decrease in daily temperature.
A new algorithm using a highly sensitive troponin I assay can reduce mortality and cut triage times to one hour for patients with suspected acute myocardial infarction. The algorithm allows for safe discharge or rapid treatment initiation, enabling better resource utilization.
Research suggests that exposure to particulate matter and nitrogen dioxide air pollutants is associated with an increased risk of severe heart attacks. The study found that men aged 75 and above were more susceptible to fine particles, while younger individuals were more affected by NO2.
A leadless cardiac pacemaker demonstrated good safety and reliable function in a six-month study. The device effectively captured heart rhythms and had a low rate of serious adverse device effects, suggesting it can be used as an alternative to conventional transvenous pacemakers.
Researchers at CU-Boulder have developed a new technique for estimating sea ice concentration, improving US Navy forecasts by almost 40%. The blended input approach combines satellite data and human interpretation to capture smaller patches of sea ice, enhancing forecast accuracy.
A new study found that antiarrhythmia drug therapy after radiofrequency catheter ablation for atrial fibrillation does not reduce arrhythmia recurrence rates at one year. The treatment, which had shown a temporary benefit in earlier studies, lost its effectiveness once the medication was stopped.
Researchers discovered two distinct antigenic groups co-circulating during the 2014-2015 winter season, with different epidemic patterns across Europe, the US, and mainland China. The study provided a comprehensive understanding of the H3N2 virus's antigenic evolution, facilitating effective vaccine strategy formulation.
Researchers used fMRI to distinguish first-episode psychotic patients from healthy controls while watching the movie. They found significant differences in brain activity, particularly in the precuneus region, which is associated with memory and self-awareness.
A 12-year study of over 1,200 patients found that heavy coffee drinkers had a four-fold increased risk and moderate drinkers tripled their risk of heart attacks. The effect may be mediated by long-term influences on blood pressure and glucose metabolism.
Research found that depressed patients with high or low blood pressure had the highest risk of major vascular events, including stroke or heart attack, at four years. The study included 35,537 patients and showed that depressive symptoms interacted with blood pressure to predict these outcomes.
The new ESC guidelines recommend a multimodality imaging approach for diagnosing infective endocarditis, incorporating techniques such as PET-CT. A multidisciplinary team, including cardiologists, cardiac surgeons, and infectious disease specialists, is crucial for effective management.
The new ESC guidelines offer improved management of pericardial diseases, including acute pericarditis and constrictive pericarditis. The guidelines provide specific diagnostic criteria and treatment recommendations, aiming to improve outcomes and quality of life for patients with these conditions.