Research reveals that sleep plays a crucial role in removing toxic waste from the brain by increasing fluid flow and clearance of neurotoxic waste products. The glymphatic system, responsible for this process, is most active during sleep, suggesting the necessity of sleep for maintaining a healthy brain environment.
After 40 years of work, experts conclude that securing individual rights, improving caregiving relationships, and reforming healthcare systems are crucial to advancing end-of-life care. Strategies include training clinicians in communication skills, designing systemic improvements, and enacting financing reforms.
A new electronic model developed by McMaster University researchers aims to revolutionize shared decision-making in doctor's offices. The SHARE-IT decision aids provide simple formats for patients to review medical information and evidence, promoting meaningful conversations between patients and doctors.
Researchers report improved diagnosis and treatment of stroke patients with Mobile Stroke Treatment Units, reducing median alarm-to-CT scan completion times by 41 minutes. The units provide pre-hospital evaluation and treatment, allowing for earlier clot-busting medication administration and better outcomes.
Researchers used a new whole-genome sequencing method to detect potential disease-causing mutations in human IVF embryos, detecting 82% of single base de novo mutations. The technique, which uses DNA barcodes and advanced sequencing technology, can help identify the cause of congenital disorders such as intellectual disability and autism.
A new discovery by scientists at the University of Turku reveals a key role for the plasmalemma vesicle-associated protein (PLVAP) in regulating the transport of proteins and migration of white blood cells into lymph nodes. The findings provide insights into rapid defence responses in the human immune system.
A new study presents a non-invasive test using optic nerve ultrasound to measure sheath thickness, which can help identify acute stroke patients at high risk of dying within days or months. The findings suggest that larger nerve sheath measurements are associated with increased death risk and disability six months later.
A recent study published in Nature found that carbon stored in an isolated reservoir deep in the Southern Ocean re-connected with the atmosphere, driving a rise in atmospheric CO2 and global temperatures. This process is crucial in understanding how the ocean affects the carbon cycle and climate change.
Researchers found a gene called R2d2 that breaks Gregor Mendel's century-old 'law of segregation', leading to unequal inheritance of genes in mammals. This discovery has wide-ranging implications for fields like evolutionary genetics, biomedical science, and infectious diseases.
Researchers investigate plant molecular structures for climate adaptation, discovering novel pathways subject to natural selection. The project sheds light on convergent evolution and potential applications in ecology and agriculture.
Researchers at NCEPU propose a novel solar CPV/CSP hybrid system that combines electricity generation with heat utilization. The system improves overall solar-to-electricity efficiency by increasing the useful peripheral low-concentration radiation, resulting in high-efficiency solar power generation.
A new study published in the British Journal of Health Psychology found that university students who focused on the benefits of abstaining from alcohol reduced their overall drinking levels. Participants who imagined strategies for non-drinking also reported fewer binge drinking episodes and more favorable perceptions of non-drinkers.
A study published in CMAJ Open found that the incidence of newborn opioid withdrawal increased 15-fold in Ontario between 1992 and 2011, with most babies born to mothers who were legally prescribed opioids. The shift from other opioids to methadone before delivery was associated with higher rates of premature birth and low birth weight.
Researchers have developed a new device that significantly improves healing of small ruptured brain aneurysms. The HydroCoil device combines a gel-like substance with a platinum coil, allowing it to expand and block blood flow to the aneurysm, reducing recurrence rates by up to 70% compared to standard treatment.
Researchers at St. Michael's Hospital found that stroke survivors are more likely to commit driving errors, particularly during complex tasks, and made a greater number of hazardous errors in simulated driving conditions compared to healthy drivers.
Researchers identified structural features and cell types in the retina that may act as key factors in glaucoma progression. Within seven days of elevated eye pressure, some retinal ganglion cells underwent significant rearrangements, such as reductions in number and length of dendritic branches.
A Duke University study found that chimpanzees and bonobos prefer the glass half full when presented with a choice between two snacks. The apes were more likely to choose fruit over nuts when framed as a prize rather than a penalty, regardless of equal average payoffs.
A new study sheds light on nutrition, land use, and water security dimensions of global food trade. The research reveals that more than one-fifth of calories grown in farm fields are traded, requiring about 20% of the world's croplands.
The Lab-in-a-Box system tracks a doctor's behavior during consultations with patients, analyzing their interactions with electronic medical records. The goal is to provide insights on how to run medical practices more efficiently, while minimizing distractions from screen time.
Researchers have identified ducks as an ideal model organism to study the cellular mechanisms of mechanosensation, a complex process involving sensory neurons. The study reveals that ducks have highly specialized trigeminal ganglion neurons that are capable of converting force into excitation more efficiently than other birds and mammals.
Researchers found higher proportions of women and young adults dying of mesothelioma in two counties encompassing Las Vegas, suggesting naturally occurring mineral fibers are a contributing source. The study highlights the need for more research to reduce exposure.
Researchers at the University of Manchester developed heat-activated liposomes with antibody targeting capabilities, showing improved drug delivery to tumour tissue in mice. The combination approach resulted in a moderate improvement in animal survival, offering potential for novel targeted drug delivery strategies.
Researchers at the University of Colorado School of Medicine have discovered an RNA structure-based signal that bridges evolutionary divergence between bacteria and eukaryotes, enabling protein synthesis. This finding challenges long-held assumptions about the molecular signals initiating protein synthesis in these distinct life forms.
Research from Oregon State University finds that identifying the population of people with mental illness who have frequent contact with police can help allocate limited resources. The study suggests using mental health courts and maximizing existing systems to reduce police interaction with the mentally ill.
Researchers identified a gene influencing beak shape in Galápagos finches, which varied among individuals within species. This finding highlights the genetic basis for evolution and natural selection, shedding new light on how species diverge over time.
An international team of astrophysicists has witnessed the formation of a quadruple star system, consisting of a young star and three gas clouds that will develop into stars in 40,000 years. The system is unstable and prone to interference due to its multiple members.
A Concordia University study found that chronic illness is often accompanied by feelings of loneliness, even in people with long-term partners. The research suggests that self-protective strategies can reduce stress and prevent feelings of loneliness.
A meta-analysis of 203 articles from 29 countries found that individuals with mental health disorders have a relative risk of mortality 2.22 times higher than the comparison population. The majority of deaths among people with mental health disorders are due to natural causes, with a median potential life lost of 10 years.
A team of UH College of Optometry researchers aims to improve the vision of individuals with Down syndrome using computer-simulated prescribing strategies. The study, funded by the National Eye Institute, hopes to demonstrate improved visual acuity with new prescription methods that consider optical distortions in the eyes.
Scientists discovered a previously unknown structure that forms during vulcanization, which could lead to improved tire performance and fuel savings. The discovery has major implications for the auto industry and reducing air pollution.
Delayed consent to administer tissue plasminogen activator (tPA), a clot-busting drug, occurred in over 50% of cases among ischemic stroke patients. Women and weekends were more likely to experience these delays. Training tools could reduce tPA delay time by improving the consent process. Additionally, insertable cardiac monitoring det...
Researchers from Brigham and Women's Hospital discovered that targeting cancer cells immediately after chemotherapy can make them more vulnerable to treatment. The 'one-two punch' approach involves administering two drugs simultaneously or sequentially, increasing the effectiveness of cancer therapy.
A large nationally representative survey shows that the number of Americans using mind and body approaches to improve health and well-being remains high. The survey highlights a significant increase in yoga usage, with nearly double the number from 2002, as well as notable increases in meditation and chiropractic use.
A team of scientists has sequenced 120 birds to study the evolutionary history of Darwin's finches and identified a gene associated with beak shape variation. The research reveals that hybridization between species played a critical role in shaping the genetic diversity of these iconic birds.
A longitudinal study found that Latino adolescents who experience discrimination-related stress are more likely to develop anxiety, depression, and sleep issues. The study suggests that U.S.-born Latinos may be particularly vulnerable to these mental health outcomes.
Researchers at Texas A&M AgriLife Research found that water is the biggest factor affecting corn silage quality in the region. Irrigation levels between 65-75% of evapotranspiration resulted in decreased yield and quality.
Researchers at USF are developing a new treatment for age-related hearing loss (ARHL), a neurodegenerative condition affecting 10% of the population. The Phase II clinical trial aims to investigate the therapeutic potential of modulating potassium channels in the brain.
Research at University College London reveals that grid cells in the brain modify their patterns based on the environment's geometry. The study found that grid patterns align with the local environment and distort in trapezoid-shaped spaces, challenging previous theories about the brain's navigation system.
In a Phase III study, lenvatinib showed dramatic improvement in progression-free survival for patients with advanced radioiodine-refractory thyroid cancer. The therapy significantly improved overall response rate and survival rates compared to placebo.
Researchers found that a massive release of carbon dioxide from the ocean during the last ice age warmed the planet and ended the glacial period. The study, published in Nature, suggests that natural variations in atmospheric carbon dioxide are linked to carbon stored in oceans.
A new study led by University of Maryland School Medicine researcher Joana C. Silva found that five common Plasmodium species have not changed which animals they infect for at least 3 million years. This suggests that host switching by malaria-causing parasites is not a common event on an evolutionary time scale.
Researchers found that people prefer online profiles highlighting a potential partner's success and humility, with specific details about their life. This approach balances presenting the best version of oneself while avoiding exaggerations.
A study found that graduated licensing can reduce crashes by 20-30% among young drivers. Experts urge the government to introduce a
A new study published at the American Stroke Association's International Stroke Conference found that 1 in 4 acute ischemic stroke patients treated with tPA were transferred quickly to certified stroke centers. The study suggests that these transfers may lead to improved patient outcomes, as time is brain in stroke care.
A study found that young adult survivors (18-39) report higher distress levels than older survivors, despite similar time since treatment completion. Fear of cancer recurrence and financial burden were key predictors of elevated distress in these young adults.
Arturo Hernandez, a University of Houston developmental psychology professor, has received the Friedrich Wilhelm Bessel Research Award for his groundbreaking work on how the brain processes language. His research has significant implications for teaching and learning multiple languages, including second languages.
A pilot study found that non-invasive neurotechnology HIRREM significantly reduced hot flash severity scores, insomnia symptoms, and depression in premenopausal and postmenopausal women. The study suggests that HIRREM may be a safe and effective treatment option for managing menopause-related symptoms.
Researchers found that a common oral pathogen can grant tumors an anti-immune defense mechanism, protecting them from destruction by natural killer cells. Blocking this interaction might improve anti-tumor immunity in human patients.
A new study by Berkeley Lab reveals how calcium ions trigger the folding and binding of S-layer protein nanosheets, enabling the self-assembly of complex two- and three-dimensional structures. The findings have potential applications in creating nanostructured arrays for various materials.
Researchers at SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory have developed a technique to rapidly explore, sort, and analyze samples with high-resolution X-ray imaging. This method enables the study of viral infections, cell division, and photosynthesis in unprecedented detail, and has the potential to revolutionize biology research.
Researchers at Indiana University School of Medicine identified a novel pathway that enables solid tumor cancer cells to grow. The protein Mdm2 plays an active role in making p53 ineffective, providing a new target for therapeutic approaches.
Methamphetamine abuse accelerates aging by causing abnormalities in cellular fat metabolism and triggering inflammation. Researchers have identified methods to limit this process using inhibitors of nuclear factor kappa beta signaling.
A study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that supermarket price promotions lead to greater sales boosts for less healthy foods, even though they are not promoted more frequently. The researchers suggest that stockpiling during promotion may contribute to this finding.
A new commentary suggests that mandatory screening for women with dense breast tissue without careful analysis of benefits and risks is unwise. Education on the increased risk and other important factors can help healthcare providers guide recommendations for supplemental screening.
A new study found that lowering systolic blood pressure to below 140 mm Hg significantly reduces the risk of stroke in people over 60, with especially high risks for Hispanics and blacks. The study also highlights the importance of targeting this group with specific treatment guidelines.
A study found that retigabine, an epilepsy drug, protected the brain against ischemic stroke damage in mouse models. The medication acted directly on nerve cells to minimize damage, showing protective effects up to five days after the stroke.
Research reveals that the variety and adaptability of interlocking protein building blocks make up the feather's success. Birds have dozens of smaller variations within each type of brick, represented by the many differing copy numbers in their gene.
Researchers at UMBC isolated a peptide that binds strongly to lithium manganese nickel oxide, improving the potential power and stability of electrode materials. The peptides can latch onto nanoscale components, forming a bridge between conductive components and maintaining a connection through multiple charging cycles.
Research from the University of British Columbia found that caring parent-adolescent relationships reduce the likelihood of suicidal thoughts leading to attempts. Adolescents with a history of suicide attempts reported lower parental care than non-suicidal adolescents.
A new study reveals that intense hurricanes, possibly more powerful than any storms in recorded history, frequently pounded the US Northeast between 250 and 1150. The findings could have implications for future hurricane intensity and frequency as ocean temperatures increase due to climate change.