A clinical trial found metformin to be effective in reducing weight gain associated with atypical antipsychotics in children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorder. The study, published in JAMA Psychiatry, suggests that metformin may offer a potential treatment option to mitigate the risks of diabetes linked to weight gain.
Researchers have identified interleukin-17A (IL-17A) as a crucial cytokine in the immune response against visceral leishmaniasis. Stimulating IL-17A production can help reduce parasite load and prevent organ lesions, paving the way for new therapeutic strategies.
Tropical Depression 14W formed as a weak storm with isolated strong storms and a low-level center, but persistent wind shear prevented intensification. The storm is expected to move north and dissipate within 4-5 days.
Scientists have discovered a new class of small molecule compounds that can block the Ebola virus's ability to break out of cells and infect new ones. The compounds target an interaction between the virus and host cells, inhibiting viral egress without being toxic to human cells.
A recent study by University of Kansas researcher found that checked baggage fees have improved US airlines' departure performance and reduced delays. The study revealed a 'below-the-cabin effect,' where less weight resulted from passengers carrying fewer bags, offsetting changes in carryon luggage.
Researchers have developed a new technology called Cholestosomes that can encapsulate insulin and deliver it orally without degrading. The vesicles are made of naturally occurring lipid molecules and can pass through the stomach intact, allowing for high bioavailability and effective insulin delivery.
Steven L. Wolf, PhD, PT, FAPTA, FAHA, has received the 2016 Excellence in Rehabilitation of Aging Persons Award from the Gerontological Society of America (GSA) for his work on fall prevention and stroke rehabilitation.
The Arab uprising and subsequent wars have had a devastating impact on the region's health, with many countries experiencing downward turns in life expectancy. The study reveals that infant mortality rates are rising, and chronic diseases such as diabetes and heart disease are becoming increasingly prevalent.
Astronomers have found a potentially habitable exoplanet, Proxima b, orbiting the red dwarf star Proxima Centauri, just 11 days from its parent star. The planet's mass is at least 1.3 times that of Earth and orbits within the star's habitable zone.
A Yale team discovered that Zika virus diverts a key protein necessary for neural cell division, causing microcephaly. Researchers found an FDA-approved drug, Sofosbuvir, may prevent Zika virus infection of neural stem cells and keep phospho-TBK1 involved in cell division.
Researchers at Arizona State University developed a new method to predict which BE patients are at risk of developing cancer. The study highlights the power of studying genetic diversity as a reliable predictor of cancer development and spread.
A recent manuscript by Jason Katz examines the early growth and maturation of critical care cardiology and challenges facing this emerging field. He recommends establishing a more formal fellowship pathway and adopting an open-to-closed ICU model to improve care efficiency and outcomes.
A global analysis of environmental risk from invasive alien species reveals that one sixth of the world's lands are 'highly vulnerable' to invasion. The study highlights the need for proactive policies and international cooperation to combat these threats.
A study published in the Journal of Physiology found that fish oil pills can prevent and counter the negative effects of a high-fat diet. Mice fed fish oil had lower body fat and improved insulin resistance compared to those on a high-fat diet.
Research identifies three pathways where sleep problems contribute to suicidal thoughts and behaviors, including heightened risks at night and prolonged failure to achieve good sleep. The study emphasizes the need for nighttime service provision and restored healthy sleep in relation to coping with mental health problems.
A study of over a million Swedes found that childhood brain injuries increased the chances of poor school attainment, psychiatric care, disability benefits, and premature death. Repeated mild or severe brain injuries were associated with even higher risks.
Typhoon Lionrock strengthened to a typhoon, developing an eye with powerful thunderstorms, according to NASA-NOAA Suomi NPP satellite data. The storm was moving southwest before expected to turn onto a northeasterly course.
Tropical Storm Gaston intensified in the Atlantic Ocean with rainfall rates reaching up to 141 mm per hour. The GPM satellite provided detailed measurements of precipitation, cloud heights, and storm tops.
A research team from Hokkaido University suggests the Cuban solenodon family evolved around 59 million years ago, long after the dinosaur extinction. The species diverged from its ancestor and then traveled to Cuba via water, contradicting earlier theories.
Resolvins and maresins, naturally produced omega-3 fatty acid molecules, regulate subsets of white blood cells that play a central role in inflammation. The findings suggest these molecules may be useful for treating chronic inflammatory and autoimmune diseases.
A new study suggests that acupuncture can provide significant pain relief for children with complex medical conditions, such as cerebral palsy and spinal cord injuries. The low-risk procedure has been found to be safe and effective in reducing pain and improving quality of life for these patients.
Researchers discovered that RIPK1 damages neuronal axons by disrupting myelin production, leading to axonal degeneration and hallmark ALS symptoms. The findings suggest that inhibiting RIPK1 activity may halt the progression of ALS and provide new therapeutic options.
Researchers discovered a metabolic enzyme that acts as a gatekeeper for the innate immune system, triggering strong inflammatory responses against harmful bacteria. This finding may help explain why obesity, Type 2 diabetes, and coronary artery disease are often accompanied by inflammation.
A Fusion Nuclear Science Facility (FNSF) would test materials and generate fusion fuel, paving the way for a pilot plant that demonstrates net energy production. Spherical tokamaks' design produces high-pressure plasmas with relatively low magnetic fields.
Scientists detect a potentially habitable exoplanet, Proxima b, orbiting Proxima Centauri every 11 days. The planet's surface temperature may allow for liquid water and life support, making it an exciting target for future observations.
New research by UC Riverside psychology professor Rebekah Richert found that preschool-aged children view physical actions of prayer as helpful for quiet contemplation, reflection, and communicating with God. Children's views on prayer actions differ across religious traditions.
Research suggests that younger women with coronary heart disease are vulnerable to the damaging effects of psychological stress on their heart. The study found that stress-induced, reduced blood flow occurred more frequently in younger women than men, especially among those under 50 years old.
A baby born with Zika infection remained infected for two months and one week after birth, showing delayed psychomotor development and spastic hemiplegia. The virus may have been sexually transmitted, as the father also showed symptoms before his wife.
A large cohort of NSCLC patients with M1a disease found lymph node staging to have clinical significance and an impact on prognosis. The results showed that patients without regional lymph node metastasis (N0) had better lung cancer-specific survival rates compared to those with N1 or N2 disease. Lymph node involvement also emerged as ...
Researchers found that certain house plants are effective at removing specific compounds from the air, including benzene, toluene, and formaldehyde. The study suggests that surrounding oneself with these plants can help combat the negative effects of indoor air pollution.
A clinical trial led by Jeff Elias at the University of Virginia Health System found that focused ultrasound is safe and effective in reducing shaking caused by essential tremor. Participants showed significant improvement in disabilities and quality of life, with mean tremor scores improving by 47% at three months.
A simulated patient study sheds light on antibiotic misuse in Indian pharmacies, revealing that only a minority of urban Indian pharmacies correctly managed patients with presumed tuberculosis. The study found that pharmacies frequently dispensed antibiotics to patients presenting with TB symptoms without prescriptions.
David A. Sabatini, OU professor, receives the Steven K. Dentel Association of Environmental Engineering and Science Professors Award for Global Outreach for his outstanding contributions to environmental engineering and science outreach activities globally. The award acknowledges his work as director of the OU Water Technologies for Em...
A UBC research team created a comprehensive model of creping to improve the quality of tissue paper. The new model allows manufacturers to tailor the creping process for optimal softness, flexibility, and strength.
The study examined how well mother-daughter pairs manage rapid transitions between emotional states. Mothers with moderate flexibility showed higher relationship quality and lower maternal symptoms. A moderate degree of flexibility is optimal for a strong and healthy relationship.
Researchers at UCF have discovered a way to kill spreading breast cancer cells using the peptide CT20. The therapy, called SEVA-108, targets metastatic cancer cells and has the potential to reduce traumatic side effects of traditional chemotherapies.
CPRIT awards UT Southwestern Medical Center $9.6 million for various cancer research projects, including lung cancer treatment and prevention efforts. The funding will support research into how cancer cells grow, target breast cancer survivors with active living interventions.
A systematic review of existing research suggests that physical activity could divert attention away from addiction, build confidence, and improve mood. The study aims to provide practical information on the effectiveness of physical activity as an alternative approach to treating alcohol and substance use disorders.
Researchers found that certain gut bacteria, such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa, metabolize gluten differently than beneficial bacteria like Lactobacillus. This variation can either stimulate inflammation in individuals with genetic risk or detoxify gluten, potentially influencing celiac disease development.
A new map reveals that humans have seriously altered 97% of the planet's most biodiverse regions, including tropical rainforests. The study found that environmental pressures are widespread, but some nations and countries with strong governance are showing signs of improvement.
Scientists at Johns Hopkins have discovered a drug combination that specifically targets the metabolic pathways of pancreatic cancer cells. By combining an experimental drug with metformin, researchers were able to shrink tumors by at least 50% in animal models, providing new evidence for treating this aggressive form of cancer.
Lisa Skemp, PhD, RN, FGSA, FAAN, is the 2016 recipient of the Minority Issues in Gerontology Committee Outstanding Mentorship Award. She has demonstrated a long history of promoting health and quality of life for community-dwelling elders through her research on building community capacity for healthy aging.
A recent study analyzing 12 peer-reviewed epidemiologic studies found a substantial benefit of late-in-life cognitive activities in reducing the incidence of Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia. The bias analysis suggested that potential confounding factors may not account for the observed associations, lending support to a...
A team of Lehigh engineers has created a novel method called AMIGO that considers multiple elements and is the first to factor in so many aspects. The algorithm demonstrates its effectiveness on transportation network recovery in an imagined post-earthquake San Diego, finding near-optimal solutions in a small number of trials.
A study of over 3 million Medicare patients found that seniors with higher continuity of care had 20% lower risk of emergency department visits and hospitalizations. Maintaining a relationship with one doctor can help avoid such situations.
A new study finds that rising Antarctic temperatures will lead to more snowfall, which could help mitigate global sea level rise. By mid-century, the effect of human-induced warming on Antarctica's net snow accumulation is expected to emerge above natural climate variability.
A study found that young and middle-aged adults in the US prefer to live longer than average life expectancy if they have positive expectations for old age, but those with negative expectations prefer shorter lives. The study used a telephone survey of over 1600 adults aged 18-64 years and found no relationship between age, gender, or ...
Researchers have developed an imaging technique that can accurately diagnose and prognosticate transthyretin-related cardiac amyloidosis (ATTR-CA), a type of heart failure. The test uses technetium 99m pyrophosphate and has been shown to correctly identify ATTR in 91% of patients, ruling out other forms of amyloidosis.
A recent study published in Journal of General Internal Medicine found that hospitals with adequate staffing levels, particularly registered nurses, experience reduced restraint use. The research suggests that the type of nursing staff rather than just total staffing is a crucial factor in preventing restraints from being used.
Climate researchers found that global climate models become increasingly uncertain when making predictions at scales below approximately 600 miles for temperature changes and 1200 miles for precipitation patterns. This makes it difficult to predict regional variations, such as the difference in warming between Indianapolis and Pittsburgh.
Researchers found that metformin effectively reduced body mass index scores in overweight children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorder who take antipsychotic medications. The double-blind clinical trial also showed metformin was well-tolerated and did not cause behavioral changes.
A study published in PLOS ONE found that golden eagles are more abundant in open, elevated areas with high wind speeds. These areas provide better hunting opportunities and allow for efficient flight, suggesting a preference for landscapes with these characteristics.
Increasing ocean acidification could double the mortality of newly-hatched cod larvae, potentially decreasing recruitment by one quarter to one twelfth of previous levels. This would put fisheries under pressure if exploitation remains unchanged.
Researchers at Temple University Health System will investigate the combined impact of tobacco smoke and opiates on HIV-induced tissue damage in brain, lungs, and other organs. The study aims to better understand the pathology of HIV infection and develop new treatments for affected individuals.
Researchers at Lehigh University, Michelin Corporation, and NSF are developing materials with surface architectures that could enhance the safety and reliability of tires. By mimicking the smooth pad surfaces found on the feet of grasshoppers or frogs, they aim to improve sliding friction while minimizing rolling resistance.
Researchers at Umeå University emphasize the importance of integrating forest and aquatic ecosystems in restorations to retain biodiversity and ecosystem services. Restoring riparian zones can increase production and diversity by facilitating nutrient cycling between land and water.
Researchers found that obese individuals with insulin resistance showed improvement by avoiding AGEs, a byproduct of dry heat-cooked foods. A diet low in AGEs reduced insulin resistance, body weight, and AGE levels.
In laboratory experiments, scientists found that normally mutualistic strains of yeast became competitive and even drove one strain to extinction when environmental conditions were benign and nutrients were plentiful. The researchers developed a model to predict the type of mutualistic relationship that would develop between species ba...
Researchers built a stream table experiment to test a theory about the erosion of the Tarim Basin's flat surfaces. They found that channel switching played a crucial role in beveling these areas due to rapid changes in sediment flux and water flow. The study provides insights into the geological history of the region.
Researchers generated methane from carbon dioxide in one enzymatic step using a light-driven bacterium. This breakthrough could lead to large-scale capture of environmentally damaging byproducts and conversion into alternative fuels.