The introduction of innovative techniques and devices has led to declining death rates from cardiovascular disease, but reimbursement systems are hindering their adoption. Delays in allocating reimbursement codes are limiting investment in future device therapies.
A recent NIH-funded study found that approximately 1.5% of boys aged 10-18 received an antipsychotic prescription in 2010, with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) being the most common diagnosis among youth ages 1-18. The study also highlighted a significant increase in antipsychotic use with age, beginning at 0.11% for ch...
Patients with a low to healthy body weight had an average survival time of two-and-a-half months less than overweight and obese patients. The study suggests that there may be a relationship between having a lower BMI and poor treatment tolerance, putting thinner patients at risk for poor outcomes.
A recent study found that statins can decrease aggression in men, while increasing it in postmenopausal women. The effects on testosterone and sleep levels also played a role in the observed changes.
Researchers developed a smartphone sensor using surface plasmon resonance to detect biomolecules, including those for pregnancy testing and diabetes monitoring. The sensor is tiny, affordable, and comparable in sensitivity to current equipment.
Earl L. Smith III, OD, was inducted into the National Optometry Hall of Fame for his long-lasting impact on the optometric profession through his academic and administrative work at UH College of Optometry. He has made significant contributions to vision science research and education.
Indoor tanning rates declined significantly among US adults from 2010 to 2013, with notable decreases in younger age groups and certain health conditions. The decrease is attributed to increased awareness of indoor tanning's harms, including its link to cancer risk.
Researchers at Concert Pharmaceuticals demonstrated selective deuterium substitution to improve safety, efficacy, tolerability and convenience of paroxetine-based medicines. Deuterated compounds retain potency but exhibit altered metabolic profiles, reducing drug-drug interactions.
A single-celled marine plankton has evolved a tiny eye-like structure that resembles the complex eyes of humans and other animals. The ocellloid contains sub-cellular organelles similar to those found in multicellular eyes, potentially aiding prey detection through light shift detection.
A new study using Social Security Administration's personal income tax data confirms the value of college education by measuring individual lifetime earnings over 20 years. The study estimates significant long-term economic benefits of college education, with men earning an average of $840,000 more over 50 years than high school gradua...
Researchers study the behavior of liquids trapped between two parallel fibers, discovering that spreading is controlled by three key parameters: liquid amount, fiber orientation, and distance between them. This insight could lead to cheaper materials with better insulation properties.
A new study aims to understand MS pathology by activating metabolic stress in oligodendrocytes, a type of cell that produces myelin. The research seeks to determine if this nonimmune-mediated animal model can recapitulate MS pathology and find evidence for behavioral changes and cognitive decline.
Researchers found interesting morphological distinctions in the mouthparts of larvae and new chromosome rearrangements in the second chromosome of <i> Ch. bernensis</i>. The study suggests a possible adaptive explanation for the geographical distribution of the species, with different genotypic combinations dominating at various sites.
The UT Arlington team has developed an all-vanadium photo-electrochemical flow cell that enables large-scale solar energy storage even at night. This innovation overcomes a major limitation of current solar technology, allowing for uninterrupted energy storage around the clock.
Researchers at RIKEN Center for Developmental Biology found that as egg cells mature in older women, paired chromosomes separate prematurely, leading to early division and incorrect segregation. This results in age-related chromosomal errors, such as Down syndrome and miscarriages.
A pharmacy professor argues that a two-tier system of prescription or non-prescription drugs would be simpler and less confusing for consumers. The current pharmacy medicine category has limited benefits and lacks evidence to support its value.
Researchers developed a computer model to simulate the biological processes of neural network development in the visual cortex. The results show that newborns possess specialized nerve cells but lack systematic connections, which are refined through experience, leading to improved perception.
Researchers have produced pairs of spin-entangled electrons, demonstrating their ability to remain entangled even when separated on a chip. This achievement could contribute to the development of futuristic quantum networks operating using quantum teleportation.
Researchers have created an implantable device that continuously measures blood sugar levels and automatically releases insulin as needed, eliminating the need for constant monitoring and daily injections. The artificial pancreas maintained blood glucose within target range nearly 80% of the time in computer simulations.
A new study suggests that brain activity can predict how likely young adults are to develop problem drinking or engage in risky sexual behavior. The research found that imbalance in the function of typically complementary brain areas, such as the ventral striatum and amygdala, is associated with increased risk.
The BMJ has introduced a new policy requiring data sharing for all clinical trials, building on initial policies for drug and device trials. This move aims to promote transparency and reproducibility in research, as encouraged by initiatives from the US Institute of Medicine and World Health Organization.
Dr. Jian-Dong Li is developing novel anti-inflammatory therapeutics against middle-ear infections, a major childhood bacterial infection causing conductive hearing loss. The goal is to suppress overactive inflammation and improve middle-ear hearing function.
Researchers have developed a microscope instrument that can accurately measure the 3D movement of individual molecules over many hours, far beyond current limits. This technology has potential applications in biology, biochemistry, and biophysics, including tracking protein motions and characterizing nanoscale objects.
Grey seal pups who practice in pools have improved breathing patterns and longer breath-holding periods during their transition to sea life. Researchers believe this may be due to stimulation of facial nerves causing a drop in heart rate, helping them conserve oxygen.
A study suggests that sleep deprivation can prevent the consolidation of traumatic memories, reducing flashbacks. Participants who slept normally experienced more intrusive memories than those who were sleep-deprived.
A new national study will develop guidelines for patients released from the emergency room after treatment for suspected acute heart failure symptoms. The Wayne State University School of Medicine and Detroit Receiving Hospital will serve as a site for the three-year project, funded by the Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute.
Researchers found a correlation between hippocampal activity and movement through abstract social space, suggesting a common mechanism for coding physical space, time, and social relationships. The study's findings may yield new insights into psychiatric disorders like schizophrenia and depression.
Researchers measured variations in energy transition within cadmium atom isotopes, identifying physical cause of shift within nucleus. Two main factors influence hyperfine structure: magnetic field from electrons and nuclear electric quadrupole moment.
Researcher Richard Born's team at Harvard Medical School has discovered key principles about how the brain makes sense of visual information. They found that individual neurons are tuned to detect specific motions and relative depth, with a direct bottom-up contribution to these signals.
Researchers found improved median survival of patients with low-grade gliomas increasing from 44 months to 57 months between 1999 and 2010. The study suggests more effective chemotherapies contribute to the increased survival, despite a decrease in radiation therapy use.
A Stanford study found that narcolepsy may be triggered by a combination of genetic predisposition and infection, particularly with the H1N1 virus. Researchers discovered elevated antibodies in patients who received the Pandemrix flu vaccine, which was associated with an increased risk of narcolepsy.
Scientists at the University of Leeds discovered a new protein, DOCK4, that triggers blood vessel growth in breast cancer tumors. Withholding this protein slows tumor growth by impeding blood vessel formation.
A new study found that Beijing's physical area quadrupled between 2000 and 2009, highlighting the rapid growth of urban infrastructure. Meanwhile, earthquake experts have made progress in resolving scientific debates through collaborative research.
A Purdue University study reveals that targeting plants with red and blue LEDs offers an energy-efficient solution for growing crops in space. The research found that leaf lettuce thrived under a 95-to-5 ratio of red and blue light-emitting diodes, using about 90% less electrical power per growing area than traditional lighting.
Researchers found that cooler temperatures increase milk output in lactating females, while also slowing the growth of their young due to increased energy expenditure. In contrast, warmer temperatures limit milk production in mothers while benefiting the growth of their pups.
A new study led by Michigan State University suggests there may be fewer galaxies further out in the universe than previously expected. The research used simulations to examine galaxy formation in the early universe and found that the number of faint galaxies could be as low as ten times larger than initially thought.
Researchers at UC Santa Barbara have clarified the mechanism of iridescence in squid skin, revealing that specific sequences of reflectins correlate with color output. The study identifies three major types of reflectins and their roles in static and tunable iridocytes.
Losing feathers at the wrong time can significantly impact a bird's ability to fly long distances due to increased drag and reduced wing area. The study suggests that migratory birds may need more energy and make additional stopovers if they depart prematurely before fully moulted.
Researchers at Penn have identified a specific gene, TEX11, responsible for some cases of male infertility. The study found that mutations in this gene are present in approximately 1% of men with azoospermia, a condition where males produce no sperm.
Research at Rockefeller University discovered that the recycling of a specific type of histone, H3.3, is essential for forming connections among neurons and facilitating learning throughout life. The study found that increased turnover of H3.3 is linked to neural activity and gene expression changes necessary for synapse formation.
A study published in Neuropsychopharmacology found that cortisol enhances the consolidation of emotional memories, particularly in individuals with anxiety and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Cortisol levels can strengthen memories of traumatic experiences during both initial formation and reconsolidation after memory retrieval.
EPFL scientists have developed a simple and inexpensive method to fabricate high-quality, efficient solar panels for direct solar hydrogen production. The innovative technique uses the boundary between two non-mixing liquids to produce an even dispersion of 2-D flakes, resulting in superior efficiency compared to other methods.
Researchers found that subcutaneous administration of multispecific antibodies improves tumor treatment by better tolerability and undiminished effectiveness. The study suggests that this method could lead to broader availability of tumor treatment for patients, potentially eliminating hospitalization.
Chronic lung disease guidelines are over-diagnosing COPD in older men and under-diagnosing it in young women, according to experts. The current guidelines may lead to adverse effects of inappropriate medication or incorrect treatment, resulting in poorer outcomes.
A new study from Northwestern University finds that virtual training for veterans with PTSD and individuals with severe mental illness significantly increases their chances of getting a job offer. The program teaches them how to ace job interviews by building rapport with the interviewer.
A newly discovered, 48-million-year-old fossil of the 'Jesus lizard,' Babibasiliscus alxi, has been found in Wyoming. The ancient reptile may have thrived in a once-tropical habitat and provides valuable insight into how climate change affects tropical species.
A study found that a small group of authors, including those employed by pharmaceutical companies, dominated diabetes research with an over-reliance on commercially sponsored studies. This raises concerns about the balance of power and conflict of interest in the field.
New research on Smilodon fatalis reveals that the saber-toothed cat's permanent upper canines didn't fully develop until about three years of age. The growth rate was double that of an African lion's teeth, at 6 millimeters per month.
Regular extracurricular sports activities help kids develop discipline and self-regulation skills, which are linked to better classroom engagement. The study suggests that structured sports programs can be implemented in schools to improve students' behavior and academic performance.
Saber-toothed cat canines took years to grow and fully emerged later in life compared to living relatives. Researchers used a novel technique to calculate the eruption rates of their teeth.
Scientists at University of Michigan and University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center discovered microscopic nanotubes facilitating cell-to-cell communication in stem cells. The findings suggest that these structures may play a crucial role in retaining stem cell identities during division.
Researchers found that neutrophils divert to nearby precancerous skin cells, causing rapid cell division and potentially leading to melanoma. The study suggests a physical link between wound-associated inflammation and skin cancer progression.
Biochar, a product of cooking chicken manure into charcoal, can retain nitrogen in soil longer than traditional fertilizers, capturing carbon in the process. This approach has been shown to improve nutrient retention in agricultural fields, offering a potential solution to the Chesapeake Bay's pollution problems.
A study by Sasha Kravchenko reveals that long-term differences in soil use impact pore sizes and microbial communities, providing plants with essential nutrients. The research compared two agricultural systems, finding complex pore structures and unique bacterial colonies within individual aggregates.
A small study found that premature babies who avoid eye contact in early infancy are less likely to display symptoms of autism at age 2 compared to those who maintain eye contact. The researchers suggest that preemies may avert their gazes as a coping mechanism, signaling an inability to handle stressors.
Scientists discovered a single-celled plankton's 'eye' contains layers of mitochondria and plastids that resemble the lens, cornea, iris, and retina of multicellular eyes. The researchers found clues suggesting the structure may aid in detecting prey and communicating with other parts of the cell.
A pooled analysis of patients with metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC) treated with bevacizumab found that those with the lowest body mass index (BMI) had significantly shorter overall survival compared to other BMI categories. Progression-free survival was similar across all subgroups.
Fireflies produce light through a chemical reaction involving luciferin and ATP, but intermediate steps were unclear. Researchers explored enzyme luciferase, finding that a single electron transfer occurs during the final step, suggesting a unifying feature of bioluminescence.
NASA's Terra satellite and RapidScat instrument detected Tropical Storm Raquel affecting the Solomon Islands on June 30 and July 1, with sustained winds of up to 55.9 mph/90 kph near its western and southern quadrants.
Scientists reveal that neurons change their firing properties to encode new associations, forming new memories in a matter of seconds. The study demonstrates the neural processes underlying real-life memory formation, showing that a single exposure is enough to create lasting memories.
A new study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that vitamin B12 supplements offer no benefits for neurological or cognitive function in older people with moderate vitamin B12 deficiency. Researchers tested 201 participants aged over 75 years who received either a vitamin B12 supplement or a placebo, and found...
The article highlights lessons learned from monitoring complex HIV clinical trials in Africa over 15 years, including the use of on-site and central monitoring, local monitor teams, and standardized processes. The authors encourage global trial teams to publish their practical observations to improve best practices.
Researchers have identified specific genetic mutations in patients with aplastic anemia that can help doctors optimize treatment. The study, which analyzed over 400 patient genomes, found that certain mutations are associated with poorer long-term outcomes and increased risk of blood cancers.
Research suggests that non-drug interventions in schools can improve outcomes for children with ADHD, such as performance in standardized tests and reduction of hyperactive behavior. However, the study found it difficult to identify what works best due to variations in strategies and measurement methods.
Researchers develop microrobots that can navigate in the bloodstream and clear blockages, offering a new treatment option for chronic total occlusion. The technology has the potential to be up to 90% successful and shorten recovery time.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins have found that combining fostamatinib with paclitaxel can reduce tumor size in ovarian cancer cells by up to 87 percent. The combination therapy may provide a new treatment option for patients with recurrent advanced ovarian cancer who have developed resistance to standard treatments.
Researchers developed mobile applications to aid in everyday care for patients with epilepsy. These apps include seizure diaries, medication trackers, and alarm systems that detect epileptic seizures. Continuous EEG monitoring could also be made possible through special sensors integrated into smartphones.
A study of populations worldwide suggests that genetic diversity is linked to increased height and better cognitive skills, as well as higher levels of education. However, this diversity has no effect on factors like high blood pressure or cholesterol levels.
Researchers identified nicotine use and substance abuse as top risk factors for long-term opioid use. Patients with these histories should proceed with caution when offered opioid prescriptions, says lead author W. Michael Hooten.
Low-income and minority populations face increased exposure to traffic-related air pollutants due to proximity to high-traffic roadways. Studies suggest that HEPA filtration, land-use buffers, and better urban design can reduce TRAP exposure.
Researchers recorded individual neuron activity in patients to understand episodic memory creation. They found that neurons signal new contextual associations between people and places with dramatic changes after a single trial.
The American Society of Human Genetics has honored Dr. R. Rodney Howell with the first-ever Advocacy Award for his dedication to leveraging biomedical advances to improve public health. He received the award at ASHG's 65th Annual Meeting in Baltimore.
Researchers at Arizona State University have developed a method to predict when Yellowstone volcano might erupt again. By analyzing the chemical composition of magma crystals, they found that eruptions can occur within 10 months or 10 years after new magma enters the base of the volcano.
A $1.35 million grant will fund research on predicting deadly avian flu outbreaks by understanding the influenza virus's transmission from birds to humans. The team, led by Lukas Tamm of the University of Virginia School of Medicine, aims to develop a new tool for predicting outbreak risk based on viral envelope changes.
Researchers identified individual neurons in the medial temporal lobe that changed their firing to encode new associations at the exact moment of the experience. This finding may lead to a better understanding of memory loss and new methods to fight it in Alzheimer's and other neurological diseases.
A recent study found that antipsychotic medication use declined in children under 12 years old between 2006 and 2010, while increasing in adolescents and young adults. Boys are more likely than girls to receive antipsychotic prescriptions for conditions like ADHD.
A University of Maryland study has found that extreme heat and precipitation events are associated with increased risk of Salmonella infections, particularly in coastal areas. The research team identified a disproportionate impact on coastal communities, highlighting the need for public health preparedness and response to climate change.
The likelihood of food shortages looms due to rising fossil-fuel energy costs and transportation infrastructure breakdowns. Researchers warn that new sustainable technologies are needed to preserve, store, and transport food products effectively, as the capacity of microorganisms grows exponentially with temperature increases.
A new treatment for children with neuroblastoma has shown promise in a phase I study, with minimal side effects and long-term survival of three patients. The drug DFMO targets an important cancer stem cell pathway to 'turn cells off,' potentially preventing relapse.
Researchers study insect leg shapes to improve thin-walled tube safety in aircraft and hospital equipment. They find that non-circular cross sections can be designed without compromising mechanical strength, inspired by nature.
A study of nearly 1,000 teens found that sexually active obese adolescents were significantly less likely to use contraception than normal weight peers. Obese adolescents who did use contraception were also less likely to use it consistently, according to the University of Michigan Health System study.
The study found that antipsychotic medication use increased among adolescents and young adults, with males being more likely to use it than females. However, most office visits by children and adolescents with antipsychotic treatment did not include a clinical diagnosis of bipolar mania, schizophrenia, or autism.
A study by University of Illinois professor Ruopeng An found that eating at restaurants consumes more calories, fat, and sodium than eating at home. African-Americans who dine out take in more total fat, saturated fat, sodium, and sugar.
A new Pew Research analysis finds that public attitudes on climate change and energy policy are strongly intertwined with political party affiliation and ideology. However, politics play a more modest role on views about biomedical science, food safety, and space.
A new study using high-resolution simulations suggests that there are far fewer faint galaxies than previously thought. The Renaissance Simulations, conducted on the Blue Waters supercomputer, show hundreds of well-resolved galaxies and provide novel predictions for the James Webb Space Telescope.
Fred Ogden's discovery answers a long-standing question about water movement in the vadose zone, crucial for agriculture, hydrology, and climate science. The new equation improves the accuracy and computing power of hundreds of important water models.
A new study found that different plant species in standing water influence mosquito larvae growth, survival and egg-laying habits. Native blackberry leaves seemed to attract mosquitoes but hindered larval development, while non-native plants like Amur honeysuckle increased adult mosquito populations.
A recent weight loss study showed significant improvements with liraglutide treatment, resulting in an average weight loss of 8.4 kg. The Temple doctors emphasized that modest weight loss can be considerable and improve medical issues, but more research is needed for longer-term results.
A new genetic 'switch' device can detect damaging contaminants like TNT, offering a cheaper and easier method for cleaning up post-war explosive chemicals. The system is cell-free, specific, and requires minimal expertise, but further research is needed to refine its sensitivity.
Researchers discovered a new epigenetic mechanism in brain cells that enables genetic adaptation to the environment through histone turnover. Histone replacement, or turnover, allows genes to be switched on and off in response to external stimuli.
A study of 200 adult men found that those with borderline testosterone levels had a 56% rate of depression and depressive symptoms, highlighting the importance of screening for mental health in this population. The researchers also identified high rates of obesity and low physical activity as contributing factors.
The Rosetta spacecraft has captured unprecedented imagery of comet 67P/Churyumov-Gersimenko, revealing large, circular sinkholes formed by surface collapse. The study suggests that these pits are a result of ices beneath the surface sublimating, causing the ceiling to collapse and exposing younger, relatively young ice chunks.
Researchers estimate that mandatory salt reduction targets could prevent up to 4,500 cardiac deaths by 2025, with the greatest benefits in deprived areas. Voluntary schemes may only avoid around 1,500 deaths.
The OpenDreamKit project will develop software for mathematical tools and virtual computing environments, making research data exploration and collaboration more efficient. The four-year project brings together 15 partners from across Europe to create open source software that can be used by researchers worldwide.
A study of 61 obese participants with type 2 diabetes mellitus found that bariatric surgery resulted in more disease remission than lifestyle intervention alone. At 3 years, 40% of those who underwent RYGB achieved complete remission, compared to 15% of those who received LAGB and no intensive lifestyle weight loss intervention.
Scientists at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory report a neural circuit in the mouse olfactory bulb that helps adjust gain on powerful odors. This mechanism allows for better smell recognition and reduces the risk of being overwhelmed by strong smells.
A new survey of over 2,000 U.S. adults found that nearly 90% recognize the role of calcium and vitamin D supplements in supporting bone health when dietary intake is insufficient. Consumers also understand that multivitamins should not replace healthy eating habits.
A new study by CCNY physicists suggests that smaller influencers can maximize the spread of information in social networks. The Collective Influence algorithm, proposed by Morone and Makse, beats competing methods in large-scale networks like Twitter and Facebook.
A study reveals hydroelectric dams, such as the Balbina Dam in the Amazon rainforest, have severe effects on biodiversity. The creation of large lakes has led to widespread loss of mammals, birds, and tortoises on island habitats.
A new study found that women with the female athlete triad are at greater risk of bone stress injuries and fractures. The triad includes low energy availability, menstrual cycle abnormalities, and low bone mineral density.
Patient care leaders at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center highlight the need to eliminate emotional harms that can erode trust and damage patient-provider relationships. The medical center has developed a system to track and address these harms, which may be more prevalent than physical harms.
Researchers developed a dropout-prediction model that uses data from one course offering to predict stopout in the next. The model achieved fairly accurate predictions and showed promise, particularly when incorporating additional variables like weekend study habits. Ongoing work aims to refine the model for improved accuracy.
Researchers found that stunting affects children under three, with disparities by province and age. They recommend a multi-sectoral approach to address stunting and improve maternal nutrition.
Researchers found that St John's Wort produces the same adverse reactions as antidepressants, including anxiety, panic attacks, and dizziness. The study highlights the need for people to seek advice from qualified healthcare practitioners when using herbal medicines like St John's Wort.
A new bio-inspired zeolite catalyst converts methane to methanol with high efficiency and selectivity, enabling small-scale 'gas-to-liquid' technologies. The catalyst's trinuclear copper-oxo-cluster active center is stabilized in the zeolite micropores.
Researchers at Saarland University have found that liquid films on fibers can slip faster than flow along the fiber, leading to faster droplet formation. The team's study has important implications for designing novel fiber coatings for water harvesting applications.
Researchers discovered a 'devil's staircase' effect in a cobalt oxide spin-valve system, allowing for infinite superstructures with tunable magnetic configurations. This finding may lead to new options in spintronics, enabling more efficient data storage and processing.
Researchers found that white women with surgical-induced menopause had a 35% reduced risk of non-fatal heart attacks compared to white men, while black women showed less significant differences. The study suggests that healthy preventive behaviors are crucial for all women, regardless of menopausal status.
The SENRI trial found that NK1 antagonists significantly increased the inhibition rate of vomiting and nausea, especially in females. The three-drug combination therapy of aprepitant, a 5-HT3 receptor antagonist, and dexamethasone may be a good antiemetic treatment option for oxaliplatin-based chemotherapy in patients with colorectal c...
Researchers identified microtubule-based nanotubes in stem cells that tap into the niche, enabling specific signaling for self-renewal. This discovery sheds light on how stem cells reproduce and miscommunication can lead to diseases like cancer.
Bonnie L. Bassler receives the FASEB 2016 Excellence in Science Award for her pioneering work on quorum sensing, a universal chemical code used by bacteria to communicate. Her research has significant implications for food production, health, energy, and environmental issues.
Research reveals Alaskan coastal waters may struggle to support shellfish hatcheries due to ocean acidification, with potential impacts on the industry by 2040. The study highlights the need for effective monitoring and mitigation efforts to ensure the long-term sustainability of shellfish farming in Alaska.
A study published in Motivation and Emotion found that performing acts of kindness can help socially anxious individuals reduce their desire to avoid social situations. This intervention showed a greater reduction in patients' avoidance goals compared to those only exposed to social interactions without engaging in good deeds.
The Global Precipitation Measurement mission found intense rainfall near the center of the tropical cyclone, with rates reaching over 78 mm per hour. The storm's center is expected to move close to Guam on July 4, bringing periods of heavy rainfall across the Marianas.
Researchers found that afamelanotide significantly improves pain-free sun exposure and quality of life in patients with erythropoietic protoporphyria. The treatment reduced the number of phototoxic reactions and improved overall quality of life, offering patients increased daily functionality.
Researchers say combining educational messages about naloxone with sympathetic narratives can increase public support for its wider availability. The study found that people who heard humanizing stories of addiction were more likely to support policies for naloxone distribution.