A new study found that hospitals with high ICU use perform poorly on measures of quality care for patients with heart attacks and congestive heart failure. These hospitals tend to have smaller numbers of heart attack and failure patients, are more likely to be for-profit, and serve low-income ZIP codes.
Harmful disinfection by-products (DBPs) form when chlorine and other chemicals react with organic matter in pool water, causing respiratory problems like asthma among swimmers. Practicing good hygiene, such as taking showers before entering the pool, can help reduce DBP levels.
The Yale Open Data Access (YODA) Project has made significant progress in accelerating clinical trial data sharing, enabling greater access to high-quality medical research. The project's independent scientific reviews have ensured fair judgment and decision-making authority over data release.
Researchers at UTMB identified a molecule called p38 MAPK linked to premature birth, found in stressed exosomes from placental tissue. This discovery sheds light on the triggers of preterm delivery, which affects an estimated 15 million babies worldwide each year.
Researchers found that mantis shrimp assess opponent strength and aggression using a combination of UV reflectance and chemical signals, allowing them to avoid losing fights. This complex signaling system helps mantis shrimp determine the likelihood of victory in combat.
A study found that insect tibias are best suited for high-stress activities like jumping and righting when overturned, with similar strength across desert locust, American cockroach, and Death's Head cockroach species.
Tropical Storm Howard is weakening due to cooler waters and increasing instability, with maximum sustained winds decreasing to near 45 mph. Forecasters expect the storm to become a remnant low in 24-36 hours, potentially sooner if organized convection redevelops.
A new study published in Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery found significant racial disparities in knee replacement surgery, with minorities having lower rates of TKR utilization but higher rates of adverse health outcomes. The study also revealed that black, Native American, and mixed-race individuals faced significantly higher risk f...
A team of investigators identified a subtype of human adenocarcinoma that may be amenable to a new therapy. The research found that tumor suppressing C/EBPα works by restraining the expression of oncogenic protein BMI1, leading to an inverse correlation between the two molecules in NSCLC patients.
The Georgia Institute of Technology researchers have created an interactive model of the brain's chemical balance to simulate major systemic changes in schizophrenia sufferers. This tool depicts chemical underpinnings in simple graphics, helping clinicians better understand the disease and test hypotheses virtually.
The article explores the link between reward deficiency syndrome, dopamine dysregulation, and amino-acid therapy. Research suggests that individuals with certain gene variants may benefit from neuronutrient-amino-acid therapy to prevent addictive behaviors.
Researchers discovered that ion channel Sandman plays a critical role in sleep control. When dopamine levels increase, Sandman moves outside the cell, effectively shutting down sleep-control neurons and leading to wakefulness.
Synaptec, a spinout from the University of Strathclyde, has secured £370,000 investment to boost its renewable energy and subsea operations. The funding will enable the company to hire new staff and broaden its capabilities in areas such as subsea development and renewable energy.
A study published in the journal mSphere found that a deadly bat fungus in Washington state is genetically similar to strains found in the eastern United States, suggesting it did not originate in Eurasia. The findings have implications for resource managers battling white-nose syndrome in North American bats.
Physicists at FAU and the Vienna University of Technology successfully created one-dimensional magnetic atom chains for the first time. The discovery enables basic research in areas such as magnetic data storage and chemistry, by providing a model system with unique properties.
Researchers found that birds can engage in slow wave sleep and rapid eye movement sleep while flying, with SWS occurring in one hemisphere or both hemispheres. The study revealed unique sleep patterns in flight, including the ability of birds to watch their surroundings while asleep.
A systematic review and meta-analysis of 13 studies found no significant difference in surgical site infection (SSI) rates between procedures using sterile and nonsterile gloves. The analysis included 11,071 patients from 228 SSI cases, with rates of 2.1% for non-sterile glove procedures and 2% for sterile glove procedures.
A Queensland University of Technology study reveals that parents play a significant role in shaping their children's behavior behind the wheel. Parents who actively encourage their young drivers to obey road rules are more effective at enforcing restrictions than traditional policing.
Researchers have identified a potential trigger of immune-mediated neuropathies, a chronic form of nerve disorder, as antibodies against the protein Caspr. The discovery could lead to targeted treatment for sufferers and improved diagnosis through simple blood tests.
Researchers develop a new catalyst that can produce hydrogen and ethyl acetate, a key ingredient in nail polish, from water and ethanol. This process eliminates the need for energy-consuming purification steps.
Scientists have discovered specialized killer T cells that can migrate into lymphoid tissue to control hidden infections like HIV and glandular fever. This breakthrough discovery could lead to new therapies to treat chronic infections.
A microfluidic device has been developed to replicate the neuromuscular junction, enabling precise stimulation of nerve cells and observation of muscle interactions. This innovation may help identify effective treatments for ALS and other neuromuscular disorders.
A comprehensive empirical investigation into trash films and their audience found that fans enjoy them for ironic viewing stances and appreciation of 'cheap' entertainment. The study also discovered that trash film enthusiasts are predominantly male, enthusiastic film buffs with above-average education.
A new generation of drugs that prevent cancer and Alzheimer's are in development thanks to research from the University of Warwick. The university has identified over 700 previously undiscovered proteins related to autophagy, a cellular process that declines with age.
The study, involving 10,000 participants from 50+ cultural groups, contradicts the 'West vs. Rest' divide by showing Westerners' and non-Western cultures' self-perceptions share more similarities than previously believed. The research highlights diverse models of selfhood across different world regions.
Researchers at University of Toronto have created a biologically-derived battery that stores energy in flavin from vitamin B2, a green alternative to traditional lithium-ion batteries. The battery has high capacity and high voltage, making it suitable for powering next-generation consumer electronics.
Researchers find that current laws protecting individual rights are insufficient to protect privacy when it comes to MSVTs, and the First Amendment likely protects livestreaming activities of users. The study advocates for less legal restraint on recording and live-streaming public matters, but also calls for wisdom in controlling harm...
Researchers at Imperial College London found a significant association between thicker cervical stitch threads and increased rates of premature birth and intrauterine death. The study suggests that switching to thinner threads could prevent up to 170,000 premature births globally every year.
Adalimumab, an inhibitor of the inflammatory protein tumor necrosis factor (TNF), has been shown to provide significantly greater symptom relief than placebo in patients with hidradenitis suppurtiva. The results of two phase 3 clinical trials support FDA approval of adalimumab for this painful skin condition.
A 12-year study found that wider riparian buffer zones were more efficient at removing nitrogen from agricultural runoff than narrower ones. The location of the buffer zone and soil conditions also played a role in nitrogen removal efficiency.
The National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases has launched a Phase 1 clinical trial to test the safety and ability to generate an immune system response in participants. The investigational DNA vaccine aims to prevent Zika virus infection, which can cause serious birth defects.
A US study published in the Journal of General Internal Medicine found that prescribing short-acting opioids with no refills to opioid-naive patients significantly reduces the risk of long-term dependency. The study analyzed data from Oregon, which has the highest rate of non-medical opioid use in the US.
Researchers at Pohang University of Science & Technology have developed a low-crystalline conducting polymer that shows high-field effect mobility, enabling faster charge transport without compromising mechanical properties. This breakthrough opens up new possibilities for soft electronics and wearables.
Researchers in Jerusalem found that small and medium-sized HDL particles were more closely associated with protection against coronary atherosclerosis. The study, led by Dr. Chobufo Ditah, suggests that these particles may be better markers of coronary heart disease risk than traditional HDL-C.
Researchers at Colorado State University have developed a superhydrophobic coating made from edible waxes, allowing liquids to be easily slicked away. The coating is nontoxic and safe for use in food packaging.
Recent literature suggests N-acetylcysteine reduces frequency of COPD exacerbations in stable patients taking 1,200 mg daily. However, its benefits for acute exacerbations are uncertain and require further investigation.
A new study by SDSU researchers finds that DiCaprio's speech sparked record levels of public engagement with climate change, exceeding Earth Day and a major climate summit. The study analyzed news media trends, Twitter postings, and Google search trends to investigate global engagement with climate change since January 2011.
Researchers found that inosine treatment led to improved motor control in four out of four treated monkeys, with three returning to their pre-operative grasping methods. The study suggests neural plasticity as a therapeutic target for recovering fine motor control and grasping ability after brain injury.
A new study reveals that investments in both function and ergonomics result in higher market share, whereas investments in both function and form impose a share penalty. Older vehicles with higher form design hold their market-share value better than older vehicles with higher functional or ergonomic designs.
Researchers tracked 75 Caspian seals using satellite trackers, uncovering surprising variation in their migration habits, hunting patterns, and food sources. The study provides vital information for conservation efforts, with potential applications in protecting seal habitats and planning human activities.
A recent study conducted in Tanzania found that an infection with the filarial nematode Wuchereria bancrofti increases the risk of HIV infection by two to three fold. The study revealed a significant association between filarial infections and increased risk of HIV infection, particularly among adolescents and young adults.
A study published in PLOS ONE identifies three new cryptic species within the Tegu lizard family, including subtle differences in leg scale morphology and substantial genetic divergence. The discovery may aid conservation efforts for these heavily exploited species.
Scientists at ORNL discover the optimal ratio of selenium in cadmium-tellurium solar cells, increasing efficiency from 22% to near-theoretical levels. The alloy composition of 50% cadmium, 25% tellurium and 25% selenium performed best.
A study found that lean men who experience low blood sugar are less fair in their economic decision-making, especially when it comes to hiring and salary decisions involving obese individuals. This bias can lead to employment disparities and unfair treatment of corpulent people in the workplace.
Researchers at the University of Copenhagen have developed a method that kills cancer cells using nanoparticles and lasers. The treatment has been tested on mice and shown to be effective in destroying cancer tumors without causing major side effects.
The study highlights the importance of managing pericardial effusions, myocardial disease, pulmonary arterial hypertension, and other cardiac complications in HIV-infected patients. Clinicians must be aware of these manifestations, diagnosis, and treatment options to improve patient outcomes.
Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory scientists have created a breathable material that provides protection from biological agents due to its small pore size. The material also responds to chemical hazards with dynamic functional groups, mimicking the adaptive response of human skin.
Researchers observed that certain bees act as 'fanners' during the hottest part of the day, funneling air towards cooler nest regions. This collective respiratory movement may help cool the nest with a mechanism analogous to mammalian inhalation.
A cervical stitch used to prevent preterm labor has been linked to a three times higher risk of stillbirth and almost twice the risk of preterm birth. The suture may disrupt the vaginal microbiome and spur inflammation, major risk factors for preterm birth.
The Center for Leadership in Disability at Georgia State University is conducting a three-year study on the impact of tree canopy on symptoms of children with autism. The research aims to investigate the relationship between nature walks, memory, and stress responses in children with autism.
A team from Griffith University monitored 130 koala crossings using retrofitted eco-passages and pinpointed individual koalas with RFID tags, camera traps, and audio radio transmitters. The study provides comprehensive insights into koala behavior and movements.
The new module combines proven techniques with advances in hardware and software to run arbitrary algorithms on five qubits. It enables the flexibility to test the module on a variety of problems, bringing practical quantum computing closer to reality.
Researchers found that inhibiting RMEL3, a non-coding RNA, reduces melanoma cell proliferation by up to 95%. The study suggests RMEL3 is expressed in most cases of melanoma and offers promising therapeutic and diagnostic potential.
A comparative study found nonmedical prescription drug use in Europe, particularly among men and those with unemployed status. The study also discovered poly-drug use involving sedatives or opioids, especially among women with psychological distress.
Research found that Amish children have altered immune responses, with increased neutrophils and enhanced innate immunity activation. Mice exposed to Amish house dust showed protected airways from asthma-like responses. The study highlights the key role of innate immunity in preventing asthma.
Researchers at the National Institutes of Health have identified a novel genetic mutation that may lead to progressive loss of motor function in children. The study, published in Science Signaling, found that a gain-of-function mutation in the KCC3 protein causes extreme swelling of neurons, leading to nerve damage and muscle weakness.
Researchers have developed a flexible electronic skin patch that can detect blood-alcohol levels from sweat, offering a non-invasive and fast solution for measuring BAC. The patch uses three rapid steps to induce sweat, detect alcohol content, and transmit data wirelessly.
A Stanford-led study of nearly 50,000 active-duty U.S. Army soldiers between 2011 and 2014 found no significant increase in mortality among those carrying sickle cell trait, contradicting earlier assumptions.
A new study reveals a strong link between environmental conditions and search and rescue incidents in Nunavut, Canada. The risk of accidents peaks around -3 C temperatures, posing significant challenges to Inuit hunting activities and cultural identity.
Researchers at UCR developed a silicon-tin nanocomposite anode that triples charge capacity and extends battery life. The new material enables longer-lasting rechargeable batteries with improved performance and scalability.