A new study estimates that a cure for hepatitis C could generate significant economic benefits, including $3.2 billion in annual productivity savings in the US and Europe. The treatment, ledipasvir and sofosbuvir, has a high cure rate and fewer side effects, resulting in reduced absenteeism and improved workplace productivity.
A new therapy with high cure rates is available, but the high cost of direct acting antiviral (DAA) treatment limits access for many hepatitis C virus patients. Increasing treatment efficacy and accessibility could avert significant liver-related deaths and end-stage liver disease in Australia.
A new study reveals that e-cigarettes' mechanical and chemical properties influence the production of toxic substances, including acrolein, acetaldehyde, and formaldehyde. The findings suggest that standardizing these devices is crucial to understanding their health effects.
Researchers identified a previously unknown drop in pressure when magma stalled to form a horizontal sill, which can drive the release of dissolved gases and cause eruptions.
A seven-year study reveals that microbial communities in urban waterways can remove and neutralize organic pollutants, providing a sustainable solution for managing urban watersheds. The discovery of key chemical elements influencing the community's functions paves the way for further research and monitoring.
A study of 30 healthy adult nonsmokers found that a single exposure to e-cigarette vapor diminished cough reflex sensitivity. However, sensitivity returned to baseline levels 24 hours after exposure. This effect suggests potential risks for chronic e-cigarette use on respiratory health.
A retrospective study found that Caucasian and Hispanic children who undergo lung transplantation are at greater risk for developing chronic kidney disease. The study also identified high tacrolimus levels and acute kidney injury as risk factors for CKD in pediatric lung transplant patients.
The Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology publishes a series on depression and diabetes, revealing a bi-directional association between the two conditions. The studies also suggest that depression-distress mediates the association between depression and glycaemic control.
A new study suggests that Symprove, a live multi-strain probiotic drink, can reduce intestinal inflammation in patients with ulcerative colitis. The results show significant reductions in faecal calprotectin levels and improvements in symptoms without observed side effects.
Researchers found that certain electronic cigarette flavors can alter important cellular functions in lung tissue, including changes in cell viability, proliferation, and calcium signaling. Flavors such as Hot Cinnamon Candies, Banana Pudding (Southern Style), and Menthol Tobacco were shown to be toxic to cells at higher doses.
A recent study has found that shorter adults have a higher risk of dying while waiting for a lung transplant and are more likely to be placed on mechanical ventilation. The study analyzed data from over 13,000 adults initially listed for lung transplantation in the US between 2010 and 2011.
A Phase III clinical trial has shown that combined lumacaftor-ivacaftor therapy improves lung function and lowers pulmonary exacerbation rates in cystic fibrosis patients with the F508del genetic mutation. The treatment is expected to benefit around 15,000 US patients.
A new study found that nearly 22% of children with asthma also demonstrate a sensitivity to peanuts, which can lead to increased morbidity and mortality. The study suggests that peanut sensitivity screening may be beneficial for these children, especially when controlling wheezing and coughing is difficult.
A meta-analysis of e-cigarette studies found that while they significantly improve abstinence rates at 1 month compared to placebo, this effect is not sustained over longer periods. The device is associated with frequent short-term respiratory adverse events and may pose a higher risk of serious adverse events than nicotine patches.
Research by University of Delaware professor Katalin Takacs Haynes and colleagues links excessive CEO compensation to negative company outcomes. The studies examine the impact of greed, hubris, and risk-taking on business performance.
Michigan State University will receive a $5 million grant from the George Lucas Educational Foundation to develop a project-based learning curriculum for elementary students. The project aims to improve science, math, reading, and writing skills through real-world problem-solving approaches.
Researchers at Lehigh University discovered that randomly oriented metal nanowires improve conductivity, contradicting expectations that highly ordered configurations would outperform them. The study found that restricting nanowire orientation slightly increases parallel conductivity but reduces perpendicular conductivity.
A new study by USGS researcher R.T. Hanson reveals that California's Santa Clara Valley has recovered its water levels and halted land subsidence through targeted groundwater recharge. This innovative approach, combined with the management of urbanization and industrialization, has helped to preserve the valley's hydrological framework.
A study found that smaller volumes in certain brain regions, such as the amygdala and medial prefrontal cortex, predict an increased likelihood of escalating stimulant use. Researchers identified individual differences in brain structure as potential biomarkers for vulnerability to drug addiction.
The Little Bobtail Lake fire has grown significantly, burning over 13,000 hectares and threatening nearly 700 homes. Drought conditions and dry debris are fueling the fire, with unpredictable weather patterns making it difficult to contain.
A screening study of over 2,000 elite athletes revealed a surprisingly high prevalence of cardiovascular conditions, including life-threatening heart problems. The study found that 7.3% of athletes had some form of cardiovascular abnormality, highlighting the need for more accurate assessments and screenings in elite athletes.
Researchers have developed a new screening method for prostate cancer recurrence using spatial light interference microscopy. The study found that disorganized connective tissue surrounding the glands is a key indicator of higher risk for recurrence.
Researchers have discovered that carbonates in the deep mantle can contain significant amounts of iron, contrary to previous thought. The study found that these minerals undergo a spin transition under pressure, redistributing iron between them.
Researchers have discovered that rubber friction on asphalt is influenced by the deformation of molecules when pushed against rough road surfaces, as well as shearing movement. This finding could lead to more efficient tire materials and manufacturing processes.
Researchers develop new method to trace salmon migration and habitat use by analyzing ear bones for strontium signatures. This technique may aid conservation efforts for threatened salmon populations facing climate change, industrial development, and overfishing.
Researchers used chemical signatures on otoliths to track Alaska's Bristol Bay salmon, revealing birthplaces and life histories. The technique can help scientists understand freshwater habitats and conservation efforts for Chinook salmon populations.
Researchers found that patients with higher activity levels after ICD implantation had a 40% lower risk of death at four years compared to those with lower activity. The study analyzed over 98,000 patients and showed that even small increases in activity were associated with a significant reduction in mortality.
Dr. Ana Buj Bello, a leading expert in gene therapy, has received the Outstanding New Investigator Award for her groundbreaking research on treating myotubular myopathy through gene therapy. Her work has shown promising results in animal models and paves the way for a potential clinical trial to treat children with this rare disease.
A new study led by Henry Ford Hospital researchers found that hospitals with low volumes of robot-assisted radical prostatectomies experienced a significantly higher complication rate compared to those with high volumes. The study suggests that current fee-for-service healthcare models may be to blame for this disparity.
A new research paper demonstrates how XML markup can address challenges presented by unstructured legacy data, extracting primary biodiversity data from such sources. The project visualizes these data as standard charts to reveal key information about species and their habitats.
A new study by University of Pennsylvania researcher Adrian Raine suggests that omega-3 supplements can have long-term neurodevelopmental effects, reducing antisocial and aggressive behavior problems in children. The study found a 42% reduction in externalizing behavior and 62% reduction in internalizing behavior after six months, with...
A large cohort study found that even short duration and low intensity exercise has a negative correlation with mortality rate in the elderly. The risk of death decreased by 57% in those with higher levels of physical activity compared to those with lower levels.
Typhoon Dolphin passed close to Guam, bringing powerful winds and heavy rain. The storm's strong curvature reveals a well-formed cyclonic circulation, indicating it may intensify in the coming days.
Kobe University has developed a mercury-free film-type ultraviolet light source for medical applications, which can deliver high-intensity radiation to only the affected area, reducing treatment time and patients' stress. The technology uses plasma excitation similar to plasma televisions and is expected to begin sales in October 2015.
Scientists create 3D-printed synthetic spider webs using multiscale modeling and mechanical analysis, offering insight into how spiders optimize their own webs. The study reveals a significant relationship between web structure, loading points, and failure mechanisms.
Researchers have found that epilepsy reduces the generation of new neurons in the hippocampus, a brain region crucial for learning and stress response. The study's findings suggest that preserving neural stem cells could prevent or mitigate epilepsy symptoms.
The Prolaris test helps physicians determine the aggressiveness of prostate cancer, enabling personalized treatment plans. In a clinical validation study, the test showed that at the active surveillance threshold, predicted 10-year survival rates were 97% and risk of mortality was 3%.
Researchers at McGill University successfully tested the Tomonaga-Luttinger theory by creating a mini-faucet that slowed down superfluid helium flow as predicted. The experiment pushed the limits of nanoscale understanding, shedding light on cooperation among atoms in superfluid states.
A three-year study of 2,000 cancer survivors found that information needs differ depending on cancer type and stage. Breast cancer survivors sought more information about late effects and family risks in early years, while female colon cancer survivors increased their interest in these topics later on.
Researchers found that nearly half of chicken meat samples contained viruses capable of transferring antibiotic resistance genes. Phages were able to transfer resistance to multiple antibiotics, including extended spectrum betalactam antibiotics.
The SAWBO Deployer app allows users to view, download, and share animated educational videos on Android devices, covering topics such as health and agriculture in developing countries. The app enables offline access and sharing through Bluetooth connections, making it an essential tool for outreach workers and community organizations.
The new supplement discusses the impact of dietary fats and oils on health, including challenges in changing food types and producing healthier solid fats. It also highlights advances in using healthy fats in foods and developing technologies to decrease calories.
A new study finds that nearly one-quarter of Americans over 65 are currently or at risk of being 'elder orphans', a vulnerable group requiring greater awareness and advocacy efforts. This population faces risks such as functional decline, mental health issues, and premature death due to lack of social support.
Researchers at Princeton University have revealed the structure and biosynthesis of streptide, a peptide involved in bacterial quorum sensing. The study used a combination of chemical and biological approaches to determine the structure of streptide and its mechanism of production.
Researchers at TUM developed a new combination of 3-D printed microfiber scaffolding and hydrogels to restore cartilage, showing elasticity and stiffness comparable to knee-joint tissue. The approach also has potential applications in breast reconstruction and heart tissue engineering.
The new guidelines emphasize the importance of early and intensive communication between healthcare teams and families to prevent conflicts. In cases where disputes remain unresolvable, a fair process of dispute resolution involving expert consultants and mediation is recommended.
A new study found that over half of popular probiotics contain traces of gluten, raising concerns for patients with celiac disease. The study tested 22 top-selling probiotics and found 12 had detectable gluten levels, posing a potential hazard to those with gluten intolerance.
A growing number of people will be overweight or obese by 2030, with significant health and economic consequences. The UK's obesity problem requires a multi-disciplinary approach, combining scientific research, environmental factors, personal behavior, and policy interventions.
Researchers at UTHealth discovered that grass plants can bind, uptake and transport infectious prions, which can act as carriers of the disease. The study suggests that plants may play an important role in environmental prion contamination and horizontal transmission of diseases like CWD.
A new study reveals a complex marine phosphorus cycle with a hidden role for microbial communities. Microbes transform phosphorus into phosphonates at varying rates depending on depth, shedding light on the ocean's ability to absorb atmospheric carbon dioxide.
The 'Radial Paradox' reveals that radial access may offset vascular complications when used as a backup method for femoral access. A study found that non-culprit vessels with significant stenosis are not functionally important, increasing debate on intervention strategy. Meanwhile, elderly patients benefit from drug-eluting stents with...
A high school student's project identifying novel compounds for pain relief won the top NIH Addiction Science Award. The project also analyzed the toxicological effects of e-cigarettes on lung cell viability and the impact of smartphone dependence on stress and anxiety in developing adolescents.
Up to 2 million American men suffer from osteoporosis, with worse health outcomes than women. Despite the severity of osteoporosis in men, fewer take preventive measures or undergo screening.
National thought leaders convene at Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health to identify gaps in understanding prevention of sexual violence on college campuses. The SHIFT study aims to address social and structural factors that contribute to vulnerability, engaging students, faculty, and administrators.
Scientists at the University of Eastern Finland have identified two separate sites on the protein NOS1AP that can be blocked to reduce damaging signals caused by NOS-1 in brain cells. This breakthrough could lead to the development of new drugs for neurological diseases such as stroke, chronic pain, depression, and anxiety disorders.
The report emphasizes the importance of age-friendly communities in promoting aging-in-place and improving the quality of life for older citizens. By developing cities that meet the needs of all generations, economic and social policies can be transformed to support vulnerable populations.
A new study from NIMBioS found that cohesive clustering of friends of friends is key to the long-term dynamics of spotted hyena social structures. Researchers analyzed over 55,000 observations and found that this type of social bonding facilitates efficient cooperation, leading to improved fitness.
Researchers discovered that an antiviral compound called interferon-lambda can tighten the blood-brain barrier, making it harder for viruses like West Nile to invade the brain. This finding holds promise for treating deadly neurological conditions caused by viral infections.
Scientists used seismic data from 227 East Asia earthquakes to image depths up to 900 kilometers, revealing hidden structures like a high velocity colossus beneath the Tibetan plateau and a deep mantle upwelling in Mongolia. The study could help find hidden hydrocarbon resources and explore the Earth's interior.
A new study published in INFORMS journal refutes conventional wisdom that distracted viewers are less receptive to advertisers' messages. Multitasking viewers visit, browse, and buy advertised products within moments of seeing a commercial.