A new book reveals that nearly a quarter of the global population, 1.6 billion people, are compelled to pay bribes for everyday public services. The surveys conducted across 119 countries highlight differences in bribery rates between countries, public services, and individuals.
A University of Iowa expert will testify before the Presidential Task Force on 21st century policing, sharing her research on improving police officer health and wellness. Her pilot intervention program has shown promise in reducing stress-related disability, improving officer retention, and increasing job satisfaction.
A recent study using a new statistical methodology found that the patient mortality rates of new and experienced surgeons are similar. However, researchers emphasize that further studies are necessary to confirm these findings and account for other factors, such as changes in surgical training practices and patient demographics.
A recent study published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology found that household net worth, rather than just income, plays a significant role in determining breast cancer patients' ability to afford treatment. The study suggests that physicians and health insurers need to consider this economic variable to ensure equitable care.
Scientists discovered that bacteria use direct connections to exchange nutrients, rather than releasing them into the environment. The study found that gut microbe E. coli forms unique nanotubes to connect with other bacteria.
A study of 945 patients with intermediate-risk prostate cancer found nearly four-fold higher mortality risk within 15 years compared to low-risk patients. The analysis suggests that active surveillance may not be suitable for all intermediate-risk patients, emphasizing the need for personalized treatment approaches.
Researchers at James Cook University have discovered that Great Barrier Reef corals will consume microplastic pollution. The study found that the corals eat plastic particles at rates only slightly lower than their normal rate of feeding on marine plankton.
A new study on echinoids shows that evolutionary rates were lowest at the group's onset and increased over time through bursts associated with changes in feeding strategies. This challenges traditional views of evolution, suggesting a more complex history for many clades.
Patients with locally advanced kidney cancer did not experience improved outcomes from adjuvant treatment with sorafenib or sunitinib. The average disease recurrence period was similar between those receiving the drugs and those on placebo, suggesting that these treatments may not be beneficial for this patient group.
A Yale University study found that people with high climate science literacy are actually more politically polarized on the issue. Despite recognizing the causes and consequences of climate change, those who score highest on a test measuring scientific evidence are more likely to hold extreme views.
Bacteria living in marine sponges capture phosphorus from the water and convert it into polyphosphate, a form of phosphorus usable by the reef community. This discovery sheds new light on nutrient cycling in coral reefs.
Researchers developed a 3D-printed carrier that retains its shape and integrity, delivering immunosuppressive drug cyclosporine A and cells for local and sustained release. The system overcomes existing delivery limitations, providing a promising solution for treating diseases requiring cell-based therapy.
A Scottish community-led marine reserve has shown benefits for both fisheries and conservation, with juvenile scallops thriving in a protected area. The reserve has boosted the size and reproductive capacity of adult scallops, potentially seeding surrounding fishing grounds.
Researchers developed a customized genetic construct using tiny DNA minicircles to detect cancer in mice. The technique uses a protein called secreted embryonic alkaline phosphatase, which is not produced in adults but is present in embryos.
Researchers found that maize production creates a perfect storm for plague transmission, with rodents and fleas increasing the risk of human infection. The study highlights the need for caution in expanding agriculture across Africa to prevent similar risks.
A new report warns that US coastal communities dependent on the $1 billion shelled mollusk industry face long-term economic risks from ocean acidification. The analysis identified several 'hot zones' facing a number of risk factors, including the Pacific Northwest and Gulf of Mexico regions.
A study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology found that frequent radiation exposure and heavy protective gear are associated with increased musculoskeletal pain among technicians and nurses. Researchers recommend improving ergonomic evaluations and rotation to mitigate these effects.
New York University faculty members Michael Halassa and Jennifer Jacquet have been awarded Sloan Foundation research fellowships to advance their groundbreaking research in neuroscience and environmental science. Their studies aim to crack the neural code of sensory input and explore large-scale cooperation dilemmas, with potential imp...
A study by UNC School of Medicine researchers identified genetic pathways that play a major role in determining the severity of cystic fibrosis. The findings may lead to new personalized treatments to lessen pulmonary symptoms and increase life expectancy for people with CF.
Researchers at MD Anderson Cancer Center have identified unique 'protein patterns' in melanoma patients to predict resistance to BRAF inhibitors. These patterns may help guide personalized treatment decisions, including targeted agents or immunotherapies.
A team of researchers at Rice University has successfully simulated superconducting materials using ultracold atoms, observing antiferromagnetic order in the process. The simulation is based on the Hubbard model, a set of mathematical equations that could explain high-temperature superconductivity.
Researchers at Columbia University find that brain neurons apply Wald's sequential probability ratio test to make simple decisions, just like Alan Turing did with the Enigma code. This neural implementation of the test allows for rapid weighing of probabilities and rational decision-making.
A case-control study of over 180,000 men found that men with testicular cancer have a higher incidence of prostate cancer compared to those without a history of the disease. The study revealed a significant increase in aggressive prostate cancers among men with testicular cancer.
A new study reveals that carnivorous bladderwort Utricularia gibba packs an impressive number of genes into its tiny genome, outperforming well-known plant species. The plant's unique genetic architecture allows it to thrive in aquatic environments, boasting floating branches and miniature traps that capture prey using vacuum pressure.
A retrospective analysis of 87,500 men treated for prostate cancer found a notable increase in intermediate- and high-risk cases between 2011 and 2013. This trend could lead to 1,400 additional prostate cancer deaths per year if confirmed through further research.
Virginia Tech biochemists identify PCNA as a key protein in the sleeping sickness parasite's life cycle, suggesting multiple ways to disrupt its function. This discovery could lead to the development of new drugs to curb the disease, which affects millions worldwide.
A new study found that cancer patients' preferences for involving family members in treatment decisions differ significantly by ethnic background, marital status, sex, age, and insurance status. Non-English speaking Asian patients and Spanish-speaking Hispanic patients were more likely to share decision-making with their families.
A study published in the Journal of Clinical Investigation reveals a small loop in the human prion protein confers resistance to chronic wasting disease. The discovery provides a potential therapeutic target for developing new treatments for prion diseases, which are currently fatal and have no effective treatment.
Researchers found La Niña-like conditions associated with a 2,500-year hiatus in coral reef growth. The study suggests that similar climate changes could lead to coral reef collapse. Climate change is the leading cause of coral-reef degradation.
An analysis of 80,000 health web pages reveals that nine out of ten visits result in personal health information being leaked to third parties. This can lead to identity theft and discrimination due to predictive algorithms grouping individuals into categories.
Rice University researchers found that motor proteins collaborate to regulate cell-transport systems by favoring slow and steady movement. Weak repulsions led to maximum movement along microtubules, while strong attractions caused clusters that stopped motors.
Researchers at Imperial College London discovered that certain sedatives work by 'switching on' neurons in a specific brain region, triggering deep sleep. The findings could lead to targeted remedies for insomnia and more effective anaesthetic drugs.
A recent study at Vanderbilt University Medical Center has identified a crucial 'guardian' protein called CHIP that monitors mitochondrial function in the brain. The absence of this protein leads to profound impairments in mice with the CHIP gene deleted, highlighting its critical role in maintaining healthy nerve cells.
Researchers at Houston Methodist have developed magnetic nanoparticles that can destroy blood clots 100 to 1,000 times faster than a commonly used clot-busting technique. The nanoparticles are coated in albumin and loaded with the drug tPA, allowing it to reach the clot more effectively.
A study by USF biologists reveals that an abundance of predators can help control parasite transmission in amphibians, potentially reducing disease risk. The researchers identified a key trait of predators that predicts their ability to dilute disease risk.
Researchers at MIT have developed a new transmitter design that reduces off-state leakage 100-fold, allowing for longer battery life in IoT devices. The circuit uses a charge pump to generate a negative charge when idle, reducing power consumption by 20 picowatts.
The LEAP study shows that frequent consumption of peanut starting within the first 11 months of life protects high-risk infants from developing peanut allergy by age 5. The study found a greater than 80% reduction in the prevalence of peanut allergy among participants who consumed peanut.
Researchers found that stimulating frontal lobes with low-level electricity increases mind wandering, which is associated with improved task performance. The study suggests that the frontal lobes play a causal role in mind wandering behavior and may contribute to behavioral outcomes like creativity and mood.
A clinical trial found that introducing peanut products to the diets of infants at high risk of developing peanut allergy led to an 81% reduction in subsequent allergy development. The study, supported by NIH/NIAID, suggests a new approach to preventing peanut allergy.
A study by University of Oxford researchers exposes shortcomings in the 'index-calibration' method used in tiger and rare wildlife surveys. The team found that this approach can produce inaccurate results, especially with high uncertainty in detection rates. They suggest alternative methods to improve conservation efforts.
A new investigational drug, reslizumab, has been shown to reduce asthma attacks in patients who have difficulty controlling the disorder with standard medications. The study found that patients treated with reslizumab were at least 50% less likely to experience severe asthma exacerbations.
Researchers at University of British Columbia discover that parasites in the apicomplexan family evolved to become parasites earlier than thought, with some relatives being photosynthetic algae. Advanced genomic analysis and observations of cell structure and behavior reveal a more complex evolutionary history.
Majorities across political spectrums support assuring discovery and delivery of treatments in the first 100 days of Congress. 79% say investing in research is important for job creation and economic growth. 57% believe the U.S. should be a leader in medical and health research.
The Georgetown Consensus Group recommends policies to increase female animal models and balance male/female cell use in preclinical studies. The NIH is urged to correct the over-reliance on male cells and animals, which obscures key sex differences.
Research reveals that telephone-based peer support can significantly reduce postnatal depression in new mothers. Social support from peers was found to be effective for maternal depression up to two years after delivery, with a decline in depressive symptoms after the intervention.
Scientists from Vanderbilt and Stanford universities created a map of past climate change in the American West using ancient lake levels, glaciation records, and vegetation evidence. The study compared these results with global climate models to improve predictions for future rainfall patterns.
Research at Henry Ford Hospital found that patients whose physicians recommended flu vaccination were more likely to receive it, with higher rates among white and Asian patients. The study suggests that improving communication between doctors and patients about the benefits of flu vaccination is crucial.
The Alfred P. Sloan Foundation has selected 126 outstanding early-career scientists as recipients of the 2015 Sloan Research Fellowships. These fellowships honor innovative research in eight fields, including chemistry, computer science, economics, and physics.
The tobacco industry deployed massive third-party lobbying to subvert the revised European Tobacco Products Directive, which became national law next year. The directive includes increased graphic health warnings and restrictions on cigarette packs but was weakened due to industry interference.
A new study found that consuming peanut-containing snacks from infancy can prevent peanut allergy in high-risk infants. In contrast, avoiding peanuts led to a higher risk of developing the allergy by age 5. The findings suggest a shift in advice for parents and healthcare providers to promote early consumption of allergenic foods.
Researchers found a small molecule that can convert an enzyme to more effectively metabolize acetaldehyde, reducing cancer risk. The study uses mice with defective ALDH2 enzymes and finds that a small molecule named Alda-89 increases the activity of ALDH3A1, a related enzyme.
Researchers at the University of North Carolina Health Care found that the Rasa3 protein is critical to the success of Plavix, a common anti-platelet drug. The discovery could lead to more personalized approaches to controlling platelet activity and developing new compounds aimed at altering platelet function.
A study estimates that undiagnosed HIV individuals and those diagnosed but not in medical care accounted for over 90% of the estimated 45,000 HIV transmissions in 2009. These individuals were 19-94% less likely to transmit HIV than those with viral suppression.
A study analyzing 17 million mutations in 650 cancer patients found that genetic mistakes are better repaired in some parts of the human genome, with genes switched on having lower mutation rates. The 'mismatch repair' mechanism varies in efficiency depending on chromosome regions.
Karen Lloyd, a University of Tennessee professor, has been selected as a 2015 Alfred P. Sloan Research Fellow in Ocean Sciences for her groundbreaking research on marine microbial life and geochemical cycles. Her work holds promise for understanding the physiology and ecology of marine microbial life.
Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine have found that wisdom teeth stem cells can transform into corneal cells to repair scarring. The discovery could lead to new treatments for corneal blindness, a condition affecting millions worldwide.
A phase three trial found that using sunitinib or sorafenib after surgery did not reduce recurrence in high-risk renal cell carcinoma patients, compared to standard care. The study, E2805, involved 1943 patients and demonstrated no significant differences in disease-free survival or overall survival between treatment groups.
A study found that maternity hospital ratings did not influence the number of pregnant women attending top-ranked hospitals or avoiding low-ranked ones. Satisfaction levels also showed no significant improvement at worst-rated hospitals compared to others with similar satisfaction levels initially.
A study published in the Journal of the American Society of Nephrology suggests that a diet high in animal proteins, especially red meat, can increase the risk of developing kidney failure in people with chronic kidney disease. Conversely, consuming diets rich in fruits and vegetables may protect kidney function.
Research published in Occupational & Environmental Medicine reveals that the UK 'fit note' is associated with fewer people taking long-term sick leave of 12 weeks or more. However, the proportion of people off work with depression, anxiety, and stress has increased.
A new study found that intensive lifestyle intervention or medication can significantly reduce the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes in women who had gestational diabetes. Women with a history of gestational diabetes were less likely to develop diabetes when assigned to take metformin or undergo intensive lifestyle intervention.
A study found that diverse small predators, like dragonfly larvae, reduce parasitic flatworm infections in frogs. The research suggests a link between dwindling global biodiversity and increased infectious diseases.
Researchers found that nitrogen-fixing bacteria evolved to become less beneficial to legumes when exposed to long-term nitrogen fertilizer. This shift could have far-reaching ecological and environmental consequences in natural areas adjacent to farmland or areas with nutrient pollution. The study suggests that changes in the quality o...
A new study by The Endocrine Society finds that low vitamin D levels are directly correlated with glucose metabolism, not just BMI. People with diabetes or prediabetes have lower vitamin D levels than those without these conditions.
Research reveals that homeless individuals with mental illness have a greater than double risk of developing serious or fatal cardiovascular disease. The risk is significantly higher among men and those with substance abuse problems.
A study published in Nature Genetics reveals that the tissue surrounding tumor cells holds the key to classifying colon tumors into good or bad prognosis. By analyzing this tissue, scientists can identify patients at risk of relapse and develop targeted treatments using TGF-beta inhibitors.
A study by Johns Hopkins Medicine reveals high levels of false caregiver smoking reports or second-hand exposure in multi-unit housing among premature children with lung disease. The researchers used hair samples to measure nicotine levels and found significant exposure among children whose caregivers claim not to smoke at home.
Scientists at the University of Tokyo have created a selective catalyst that enables the hydrogenolysis of carbon-oxygen bonds in phenols and aryl methyl ethers, key components of lignin. This breakthrough could lead to the use of plant biomass as a primary feedstock for the chemical industry.
New potato varieties 'Entzia' and 'Miren' offer great nutritional value, antioxidant properties, and increased resistance to disease. They are suitable for both culinary and industrial uses, providing benefits such as high carotene content and lower reliance on external varieties.
A small prospective study found no significant difference in treatment outcomes between patients with AR-V7-positive and -negative metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer who received taxane chemotherapy. PSA responses were achieved in 41% of both groups.
A study published in CMAJ found that nearly a quarter of patients with chest pain who visited an emergency department did not receive follow-up care. Patients with multiple health issues and rural residency were less likely to see a physician after discharge.
Men who used saunas frequently had reduced risks of fatal cardiovascular events and all-cause mortality. The risk was particularly lower for those using the sauna 2-3 times per week, with significant reductions in cardiovascular disease and death rates observed.
Researchers at UC San Diego found that LTB4 promotes insulin resistance in obese mice, but blocking the LTB4 receptor improves insulin sensitivity. Genetic deletion or drug inhibition of the receptor prevents and reverses type 2 diabetes in this model.
A randomized trial using Colorado Immunization Information System found that children in the centralized notification system received at least one contact, with documentation rates of 26.9% compared to 21.7% in the practice-based group. The study concludes that a collaborative centralized approach can increase immunization rates and is...
A study found that individuals exhibiting resistance to aspirin have more severe strokes, with larger brain areas affected, compared to those who respond to the drug. The study also found a median stroke severity score of four in the aspirin-resistant group, indicating a moderate stroke.
Research links water fluoridation above 0.7 mg/l to a 30% higher than expected rate of underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism) in England. Researchers suggest switching to non-fluoride-based interventions to protect tooth health.
A new study found that a centralized notification system improved immunization rates by reaching 87% of eligible children and increasing documentation rates. The system was more cost-effective than practice-based approaches, with substantial cost savings expected from a societal perspective.
Researchers at WashU Medicine found that the epigenome plays a significant part in guiding development in zebrafish embryos within the first 24 hours after fertilization. The study suggests an underappreciated fraction of the genome is involved in gene regulation, with many noncoding regions acting as developmental enhancers.
Eight health professional organizations and the American Bar Association recommend reducing firearm-related injuries and death in the US through public health approaches. They advocate for criminal background checks, improved access to mental health care, and research into firearm violence causes.
A recent study published in the European Heart Journal: Acute Cardiovascular Care found that intense anger is associated with a significantly higher risk of heart attack. The study discovered that acute coronary blockage was more likely to occur within two hours of an angry episode, with the risk being eight times higher than usual.
Researchers at McGill University have developed a new DNA nanotube assembly method that allows for better control over size and structure. This breakthrough could lead to applications in opto-electronics and smart drug-delivery systems.
A Dartmouth College study found that formula-fed infants have higher arsenic levels in their urine compared to breast-fed infants. Breast milk contains very low arsenic concentrations, highlighting the importance of breastfeeding as a way to reduce arsenic exposure.
A study found that many doctors may not be pressing hard enough during breast exams, missing deep-tissue masses. The researchers used sensor technology to assess physicians' clinical skills and found that accuracy improved with increased force application, but only up to a point.
A recent study using NASA's Aqua satellite data shows that temperatures in the western third of the US have been warmer than normal over the past two months. The 'Ridiculously Resilient Ridge' pattern of the polar jet stream has led to this anomaly, with surface temperatures ranging from 62.3F to 80.3F.
The American College of Physicians and seven national health organizations, along with the American Bar Association, urge policymakers to implement measures reducing firearm-related harm. The organizations support a public health approach to address firearm injuries and fatalities.
A new study found that administering antibiotics within the first hour of injury can significantly reduce infection rates in trauma patients. The study, published in the Journal of Orthopaedic Trauma, included 137 patients with open fractures and found that those who received antibiotics early had much lower infection rates.
Neurons generate brain waves at distinct frequencies to communicate between brain regions, reinforcing correct guesses and weakening incorrect ones. Researchers found that beta (9-16 Hz) and theta (2-6 Hz) frequencies are used in the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex during learning tasks.
Researchers found that warning signs with greater movement evoke a higher perception of risk, leading to earlier attention and stopping. Dynamic signs, such as those depicting figures running or sprinting, are more effective at grabbing drivers' attention.
Researchers at Hiroshima University developed a prototype called Sensorimotor Enhancing Suit (SEnS) to support human motion. SEnS reduces muscle load on the upper limbs, improving sensorimotor functions and enhancing the quality of life for both elderly individuals and healthy people working under extreme conditions.
A recent analysis published in CMAJ argues that Canada must ensure fair pricing of all orphan drugs to allow patient access. The study examines the case of trientine, a life-saving therapy for Wilson disease, which saw its price increase 13-fold before being rescinded.
The JIKI clinical trial found encouraging signs of efficacy for favipiravir in individuals with high or moderate viral replication and less severe visceral lesions. In contrast, patients with very high viral loads and serious visceral involvement showed no efficacy from the treatment. These findings have implications for Ebola virus di...
Researchers have discovered nearly 3,400 new microRNA-generating loci in the human genome, more than tripling existing numbers. The newly found miRNAs are tissue- and human-specific, with significant implications for understanding disease causes.
Researchers identify thiocillin as an antibiotic that activates biofilm formation in a way unrelated to its killing ability, suggesting that antibiotics may evolve to produce biofilms rather than kill other bacteria.
Scientists from GEOMAR Helmholtz Centre for Ocean Research Kiel reconstructed pH values of northern Pacific ocean over past 120 years with monthly resolution. The study found that the pH value has been declining since late 19th century, coinciding with rising carbon dioxide levels in atmosphere.
Researchers at the University of Sydney and Regensburg found that oxytocin prevents alcohol from accessing specific brain sites causing intoxication effects, leading to improved coordination in rats. Oxytocin may help reduce alcohol's impairing effects on speech and cognition after high consumption levels
A team of researchers analyzed 49 fungal genomes, revealing that mycorrhizal fungi evolved independently in many fungal lineages. The study also found that up to 40% of symbiosis-induced genes were restricted to a single mycorrhizal species.
Scientists at Helmholtz-Zentrum Berlin have discovered a surprising high-spin ground state in the cationic cousin of dichromium, Cr2+, using x-ray magnetic circular dichroism. The team found complete localization of all ten valence electrons and maximum spin coupling, transforming an antiferromagnet into ferromagnetic.
Researchers developed 3D printed guides to help damaged nerves repair naturally by guiding the nerve ends towards each other. Successful repairs were demonstrated in a mouse model, showing promise for treating nerve injuries with reduced surgery and improved results.