New research suggests that greater fluctuations in 'bad' cholesterol levels may be associated with lower cognitive performance in elderly adults. The study found that participants with the highest LDL cholesterol variability took longer to complete a cognitive test, indicating poorer brain health.
A systematic review of 69 studies found that VA facilities offer similar or superior quality care in some areas, such as mortality rates and preventive services. The study suggests that the VA healthcare system compares favorably with other health care settings.
Researchers found liver is the major site for elimination and recycling of red blood cells, contradicting previous belief that spleen plays a key role. The study identified bone-marrow-derived immune cells as the main recycling cells, which accumulate in the liver and recycle iron.
The HOPE study will build on the ASPIRE trial results, gathering more information on the dapivirine ring's safety and effectiveness in reducing HIV risk. The study aims to understand why the ring works for some women but not others.
Researchers at Delft University of Technology develop a memory that stores information atom by atom using chlorine atoms, reaching a storage density of 500 Terabits per square inch. The innovative method uses a scanning tunneling microscope and offers excellent prospects for stability and scalability.
Researchers at Carnegie Mellon University and EPFL develop a computational design tool that enables designers to fully exploit the unique property of auxetic materials, which can expand uniformly in two dimensions. The tool allows for the creation of complex 3D shapes using flat sheets of plastic or metal.
Tropical Storm Estelle is strengthening in the Eastern Pacific Ocean with NASA satellite imagery showing a developing eye surrounded by powerful thunderstorms. The storm's cloud tops are near minus 80 Celsius, indicating strong convection and potential hurricane formation.
Resistant hypertension patients with sleep apnea are at higher risk of ischemic heart events and congestive heart failure compared to those without resistant hypertension. The study included 470,386 hypertensive individuals and found no significant differences in stroke and premature death risks between the two groups.
Scientists at Saint Louis University are studying an investigational vaccine for yellow fever, a potentially deadly disease spread by the same mosquito that transmits Zika virus. The vaccine aims to provide protection to vulnerable groups who are at increased risk of complications if they receive the current vaccine.
Researchers at Ohio State University have identified a potential gene-based treatment for Candida albicans, which can cause deadly hospital-acquired bloodstream infections. By targeting the CBLB gene, the immune system can be boosted to effectively combat the infection.
Scholars propose five guidelines to prevent disputes over frozen embryos, including clear contract language, requiring a binding agreement, and anticipating potential tragedies. These recommendations aim to provide clarity for the estimated million frozen embryos in the US, reducing uncertainty and shifting terrain of varying state laws.
Researchers at Rice University have developed a new method for uniting light-harvesting photonic nanomaterials with high-efficiency metal catalysts. The 'antenna-reactor' design produces a significant improvement in selectivity, turning a poison into a valuable commodity and offering potential energy savings and improved efficiency.
ZIK B CUBE researchers study the role of internal interfaces in biological tissues formation and function using marine shells like pen shell Pinna nobilis and glass spicules of deep-sea sponge Monorhaphis chuni. The team aims to establish thermodynamic and mechanical models for smart composite materials design.
Researchers created a liver on a chip that accurately replicates the metabolic variations found throughout the organ. The microfluidic device allows for fine control over liver cell metabolism, enabling the study of the effects of toxins and new drugs on the liver.
A study published in the Journal of Bacteriology found that two genes, ArsS and ArsR, play a crucial role in regulating biofilm formation in H. pylori. The researchers created strains with mutations in these genes and observed that they formed thicker and more rapid biofilms.
Astronomers confirm 104 exoplanets outside our solar system using NASA's Kepler spacecraft on its K2 mission. The discoveries include a planetary system with four promising rocky planets orbiting the M dwarf star K2-72.
Researchers found that a non-surgical treatment using patient's own bone marrow stem cells improved symptoms and increased physical activity in patients with angina. The treatment involved injecting a 'catalyst' molecule to stimulate stem cell migration into the bloodstream, followed by re-injection of harvested stem cells.
A new pilot study evaluates an online decision-support tool called the Decision Counseling Program, which increases rates of active surveillance among men with localized, low-risk prostate cancer. Patients who used the tool reported feeling less conflicted about their treatment decisions.
A new study finds that variations in the 16p11.2 genomic region are distinctively linked to specific cognitive domains in individuals with autism spectrum disorder. Differences emerged between deletion and duplication carriers, suggesting a complex association between genetic alterations and brain function.
A genetic mutation in the lysyl oxidase gene has been identified as a cause of thoracic aortic aneurysms and dissections. Researchers have found that this mutation disrupts the structure and strength of the aorta, leading to increased risk of rupture.
The study found that brains with more variability and frequent connections tend to have higher IQs and creativity. This discovery could lead to advancements in artificial intelligence and a better understanding of mental health conditions such as schizophrenia and ADHD.
A new simulation and measurement method for anthropogenic global warming was created by researchers at the University of California San Diego, isolating human activities' contribution to surface waters of the Pacific Ocean. The study's findings show that human-induced warming can be distinguished from natural variability.
Researchers at University of Cambridge identify mechanism behind rapid protein build-up in Alzheimer's disease, finding healthy proteins on fibrils drive self-replication. This discovery may lead to new ways to control plaque formation and slow disease progression.
A new study reveals that children's brains need healthy activation before preschool to develop learning and memory functions. Younger rats showed latent memories that were retained until later life, while older rats formed lasting memories through a critical period in brain development.
A toxic Alzheimer's protein can spread through the brain via the extracellular space, jumping from neuron to neuron. The spread of tau may explain why only one area of the brain is affected in early stages but multiple areas are affected later.
Researchers have detected high levels of KIM-1, a biomarker for kidney injury, as well as arsenic and chromium in children's urine in a region of Mexico with high incidence of chronic kidney disease. The findings suggest that early exposure to environmental toxins may lead to irreversible harm if not addressed.
The VA healthcare system generally delivers safe and effective care similar to other health systems, with some exceptions. However, studies on timeliness, equity, efficiency, and patient-centeredness show mixed results.
A new Northwestern University study shows that infants can discern between categories as early as 9 months old, depending on the names used to describe them. This finding highlights the impact of language on cognitive development, suggesting that naming influences the identification of discrete categories in infants.
Scientists have developed a way to upsize nanostructures into light, flexible 3-D printed materials with unprecedented scalability. The new process creates lightweight, strong and super elastic materials with a 400 percent increase in tensile elasticity over conventional metals and ceramic foams.
Researchers identify LOX gene mutations as cause of thoracic aortic aneurysm and dissection in family study, providing biological mechanism and possible therapeutic targets. The discovery illuminates the genetic basis of a rare disease and may lead to improved diagnosis and treatment for patients with this condition.
Research by Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health sheds light on the relentless spread of HIV in South African communities, particularly among adolescent girls and young women. The studies found that Prevotella bivia and Gardnerella vaginalis bacteria increase vulnerability to HIV through inflammation and pH imbalance.
Researchers identify Cloche, a bHLH-PAS transcription factor, as the key gene controlling blood vessel and blood cell development in embryos. The discovery, made after 20 years of searching, has significant implications for regenerative medicine and personalized stem cell therapy.
Researchers from the University of Houston have reported a critical step toward large-scale manufacture of better and less-expensive solar panels. They discovered how perovskite thin films change structure upon gentle heating, crucial for designing a manufacturing process that can consistently produce high-efficiency solar panels.
A Canadian hospital implemented strategies to reduce operating room traffic, which led to a significant decrease in orthopedic surgical site infections. The hospital reduced door openings from 42-70 to 3.2 per case, resulting in a 1.7% decrease in SSIs.
A high-fat Mediterranean diet with no restrictions on fat intake may reduce the risk of breast cancer, diabetes, and cardiovascular events. The diet's monounsaturated-to-saturated fat ratio, fruit and vegetable intake, and moderate red wine consumption are key components that contribute to these benefits.
Hummingbirds process visual information uniquely to navigate through dense vegetation at high speeds. They rely on the size of objects to determine distance and use image velocity to assess altitude.
The Infectious Diseases Society of America and American Thoracic Society recommend a 7-day or fewer antibiotic course for most hospital-acquired pneumonia (HAP) and ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) infections. Hospitals should create antibiograms to determine causative strains and ensure effective treatment.
Researchers have developed a novel graphene photodetector that can efficiently detect low-energy photons using vertical heterostructures. The device harnesses the photo-thermionic effect to extract hot electrons from graphene, enabling fast and efficient optoelectronic applications.
Germany can expect increased flood losses due to climate change, with potential damages reaching up to 500 million euros per year, according to a recent study. The research suggests that without adaptation, flood-related damage could multiply in the future.
A team of researchers from Tufts University has successfully integrated sensors, electronics, and microfluidics into threads to create a 'smart' thread that can collect diagnostic data wirelessly in real-time. The thread-based platform shows promise for implantable diagnostic devices and smart wearable systems.
Researchers will assess treatment of asymptomatic babies born with congenital CMV and investigate frequency of neonatal herpes infections in the US and Peru. Early detection and close follow-up can lessen the effects of congenital CMV in infants.
Researchers at Lund University have measured the flow of solar energy within and between different parts of a photosynthetic organism, revealing more efficient routes for transporting energy. This basic research could lead to the development of more efficient solar cell technologies.
Researchers discover DXZ4 repeats play a crucial role in superloop formation on the inactive X chromosome. The discovery sheds light on female development and has implications for 3D genome engineering.
The American College of Rheumatology has received a $335,000 grant from the Office of Minority Health to develop an expert-informed program model that improves health outcomes for people with lupus in rural and underserved areas. The program aims to increase awareness and access to care for patients living with lupus.
A team of researchers at UCSF and UC Berkeley identified duramycin as an effective blocker of Zika virus infection in human cells. The study reveals two potential routes for the virus to reach the fetus and shows that duramycin can prevent birth defects associated with microcephaly.
A study of childhood cancer survivors found that most had no reported psychological symptoms, but those who did often experienced multiple symptoms and distinct profiles. The researchers emphasize the need for robust screening efforts and identification of appropriate treatments to help prevent behavioral, emotional, and social problems.
Children exposed to parental substance misuse are at risk of developmental delays, mental health problems, and substance use disorders. Pediatricians can assess risk and intervene with families, providing access to resources and breaking multigenerational cycles of abuse.
Researchers found that different tree species employ unique strategies to acquire nutrients, with thicker roots avoiding hot spots and thinner roots relying on fungal partnerships. Understanding these strategies can help predict forest responses to climate change.
Researchers found that a western-style high fat diet can affect the immune system prior to weight gain, altering T cell responses and potentially leading to autoimmune disease. The study revealed that dietary lipids directly influence T cell activation and responsiveness by changing the composition of the T cell membrane.
A study by the University of Edinburgh reveals that plant flower arrangements influence bee flight patterns to maximize pollination and reproduction. Researchers found that flowers on one side of the stem lead to vertical flights, while circular arrangements discourage upward flights.
A study found that over half of elderly adults take five or more chronic medications daily, with underuse occurring in 67% and misuse in 56%. This can lead to increased risks of mortality and hospitalization.
An automated communication system has been shown to improve surgical patient engagement in preventing SSIs, with a high degree of patient acceptance. The system's two-pronged approach reminds patients to follow antibiotic protocols and reports signs of infection, reducing the risk of rehospitalization and treatment costs.
Researchers at Vanderbilt University Medical Center implemented blood utilization practice guidelines, resulting in a 30% reduction in blood transfusions and $2 million savings. The new guidelines also reduced blood wastage by 75%, from 300 to 80 units, improving patient outcomes and optimizing the use of this limited resource.
A new study published in Scientific Reports found that the auditory cortex of profoundly deaf and hearing people has virtually identical neural architecture. The research raises questions about the role of experience in processing sensory information and could lead to potential new avenues for intervention in deafness.
Researchers found that bees hold their antennae forward in response to increasing air speeds, but also maintain a fixed position when both visual cues and airflow are present. This suggests that bees may be using airflow to calibrate their internal speedometer, helping them estimate distances during flight.
Researchers at the University of Helsinki have developed a novel rehabilitation method that uses paired associative stimulation to restore movement in patients with spinal cord injuries. After six months of treatment, two patients showed significant improvements, including bending and grasping abilities.
A team of paleontologists, including Denver Museum of Nature & Science curator Dr. Tyler Lyson, has discovered that the earliest turtle shells were not for protection, but rather an adaptation for burrowing underground. The broadened ribs in early proto turtles allowed them to dig and escape harsh environments.
A study found that a Crew Resource Management (CRM) training program improved perceptions of the safety culture by 8% over two years. The program addressed team communication, leadership, and decision-making practices to enhance teamwork and reduce errors.
A new study by Colorado State University researchers found that ptarmigan in Colorado are not strongly affected by recent climate warming trends. However, annual reproduction declined at one site due to warmer spring temperatures leading to earlier breeding.
The study reveals alternating periods of high- and low-wavelet entropy (WS) in rat V1 during image processing, indicating dynamic LFPs with synchronized and complexly ordered activity. The parameters RWE and WS quantify neural population activity characteristics that may help decipher visual processing and object recognition.