The American College of Physicians (ACP) calls for policy changes to slow the rising cost of prescription drugs. Recommendations include price transparency, patient cost-sharing, and novel approaches such as price negotiation by Medicare. While some studies suggest potential prevention methods, more research is needed.
A new study suggests that most of the world's fisheries can be recovered in just 10 years, leading to a doubling of global fish populations by 2050. This recovery would bring significant increases in seafood production and profit for fishermen, with an expected 204% increase in profits by 2050.
Michigan State University has been awarded $4.4 million from the US Agency for International Development to strengthen its efforts in food security policy and research in Mali. The grant will support policy initiatives aimed at improving agricultural productivity, nutrition, and livelihood resilience.
A new mathematical model suggests that competition for social status is a key driver of declining fertility rates worldwide. As the cost of achieving social status increases, people invest more in material goods and less in children, leading to lower family sizes.
A new study by Wellesley College researcher Linda Carli found that people consistently perceive scientists as possessing qualities linked to male stereotypes, hindering women's success in STEM fields. The research suggests that exposure to prominent female scientists and attending an all-women's college can help shift stereotypes.
Researchers have found that suppressing the nuclear receptor protein ROR-γ with small-molecule compounds can reduce androgen receptor levels in castration-resistant prostate cancer, stopping tumor growth. This novel approach targets the root cause of the problem - the overexpression of the AR gene and its protein.
Two studies by Penn researchers found that high out-of-pocket costs for specialty drugs reduce their use, particularly for cancer treatments. The studies suggest that cost-sharing policies under Medicare Part D are limiting access to life-saving therapies.
A new study by University of Vermont researchers suggests that high school age teens' decisions to begin driving when they're of age are influenced by infrastructure and land use patterns in their community. The study found that teens from suburban areas with limited public transportation options obtained their driver's license earlier...
Scientists have successfully directed stem cell-derived neurons to regenerate lost tissue in damaged corticospinal tracts of rats. This breakthrough improves forelimb movements and upends the existing belief that corticospinal neurons lack internal mechanisms for regeneration.
Researchers demonstrate that iPSCs can differentiate into multiple types of functional lymphocytes, including CD4+ T cells, B cells, and natural killer cells. The ability to generate functional lymphocytes from somatic cell-derived hematopoietic stem cells supports the clinical application of iPSC technology.
Case Western Reserve University scientists develop an optical sensor using nanostructured metamaterials, enabling detection of single lightweight molecules in dilute solutions. The device has been shown to be 1 million times more sensitive than current methods, with potential applications for early cancer diagnosis and treatment.
A US study has found that nearly one-quarter of sites across the US are threatened by high levels of atmospheric nitrogen pollution, leading to a loss of plant species richness. The research highlights the vulnerability of grassland ecosystems to nitrogen pollution, particularly those with acidic soil.
A recent study found that only 17.9% of published autism intervention studies reported racial and ethnic diversity of participants, with white children making up a majority. This lack of diversity presents a problem as response to interventions is not guaranteed, and it's unclear why some children respond positively while others don't.
A study published in Cognition reveals that a specific facial expression, known as the 'not face', is universally interpreted as a symbol of negative emotion across languages. The researchers found that this expression is identical across native speakers of English, Spanish, Mandarin Chinese, and American Sign Language.
A large study from Japan found that cancer patients who died at home tended to live longer than those who died in hospitals. The study suggests that oncologists should not hesitate to refer patients for home-based palliative care. Home death may have a positive influence on survival, contrary to previous concerns.
Researchers found that certain gut bacteria can shield the brain from stroke by directing immune cells to protect it. Modifying the microbiotic makeup of the gut may become a novel method to prevent stroke, particularly for high-risk patients.
OPTIMISTIC, a four-year project, aims to improve the health and healthcare of long-term nursing home residents by enhancing clinical care and introducing new Medicare payments. The program has shown promising results in reducing unnecessary hospitalizations and improving symptoms in patients with chronic illnesses.
A research group led by Junko Kanoh found that the Shugoshin protein binds with subtelomeres and maintains proper gene expression. This discovery may lead to a better understanding of mechanisms behind abnormal telomere structure and its relation to multiple malformations and mental retardation.
Researchers at the University of Illinois have developed a new method for trapping multiple particles in solution, which relies on fluid flow to manipulate and assemble particles. The Stokes Trap technique can trap a range of submicron- to micron-sized particles, including single DNA molecules, vesicles, drops or cells.
Scientists at Stanford University have revived an abandoned drug that shows promise in fighting two disease-causing viruses, dengue and VEEV. The drug works by boosting the human body's ability to resist viruses rather than directly targeting them.
Researchers at UC Davis found that a gene blocking lettuce germination also regulates flowering time. Suppressing the DOG1 gene increases seed germination at higher temperatures and flowers earlier, suggesting a molecular genetic mechanism coordinating adaptation to environmental conditions.
A recent study from the University of Edinburgh reveals that tardigrades have not acquired a significant proportion of their DNA from other organisms. The research found that nearly all of what was previously proposed to be foreign DNA was actually bacterial contamination.
Researchers found that desert mangroves in Mexico's Baja California store nearly 30% of the region's belowground carbon, exceeding estimates. The study highlights the importance of mangrove conservation and ecosystem services in mitigating climate change.
Researchers at UTMB have developed a new mouse model for Zika infection, removing a bottleneck in preclinical testing. The model is available for immediate screening of antivirals and vaccine candidates.
ARHGAP33 regulates synaptic functions and behaviors via intracellular protein trafficking, leading to impaired higher brain functions and neuropsychiatric disorders. The lack of ARHGAP33 causes abnormal synaptic function and behavior, contributing to conditions like schizophrenia.
Researchers have successfully cloned Terbinicarpus valdezianus, a species of cactus endemic to Northern Mexico threatened by habitat loss. The in vitro cloning method proved effective, with high shoot proliferation and root development rates.
Case reports published in The Journal of the American Osteopathic Association document improvements in concussion-related symptoms following osteopathic manipulative treatment. These treatments can help restore cerebrospinal fluid flow to promote healing and alleviate symptoms such as headache, nausea, dizziness, and tinnitus.
A recent study found that 40% of women in Delhi experienced sexual harassment in the past year, leading to a significant impact on their daily lives. The research highlights the importance of addressing women's safety in public spaces and implementing effective measures to prevent such incidents.
Researchers used a distinct Pacific Ocean pattern to forecast increased summer heat wave odds in the eastern US up to 50 days ahead. The study improved seasonal forecasts by predicting daily extremes, with results showing potential for early warnings on critical weather events.
Researchers developed a new technique using nanoparticles that deliver therapeutic payloads and glow green when cancer cells begin dying. This allows for early detection of treatment effectiveness, potentially improving patient outcomes and quality of life.
An international team of scientists has proven that technetium carbide cannot be synthesized, contrary to previous claims. The researchers used computational models to calculate the stability of various transition metal carbides and found that only low-carbon technetium compounds can exist.
A team of researchers at Ben-Gurion University and Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research found that fairy circles occur due to the way plants organize themselves in response to water shortage. The study, published in PNAS journal, provides new evidence on the cause of these barren circular patches of land.
Researchers identified a pattern of anomalies in the Pacific Ocean's surface temperature that consistently precedes heat waves in the eastern US by up to seven weeks. The 'Pacific Extreme Pattern' is linked to a lack of precipitation, diverting moisture away from the region and drying the land surface.
A new type of security detection device has been developed, capable of detecting explosives and biological substances from safe distances. The device uses a single-component terahertz source that operates at room temperature and can emit up to multi-milliwatts of power.
Researchers found that negative feedback can prompt immoral behavior in high-achieving students pursuing careers in law, business, and STEM fields. Those who received negative feedback were more likely to endorse questionable behaviors, such as breaking contracts or disparaging others, to demonstrate their professional capabilities.
Researchers have resolved the first protein structure in a family of proteins called transcription terminators, revealing their role as traffic signals for coordinating transcription and gene replication. The study provides insight into the mechanisms underlying cellular aging and tumor growth.
The Oregon law allows pharmacy prescription, reducing barriers and costs. However, limitations on age and types of contraception remain. Experts emphasize the need for further expansion to ensure equal access and safe use of all contraceptive methods.
Researchers propose an alternative Ebola entry screening policy in the US that incorporates social contact tracing risk levels, potentially reducing costs and improving public health outcomes. The study suggests this approach may justify additional data collection efforts to enhance public health decision-making.
Researchers at North Carolina State University have developed a novel light-weight composite metal foam that effectively insulates against high heat. The finding has significant implications for storing and transporting nuclear material, hazardous materials, explosives, and other heat-sensitive materials.
A study by Hannah Swegarden and colleagues identifies four heirloom dry bean cultivars with high yield stability as ideal for local organic production in Minnesota. Heirloom varieties like 'Lina Sisco's Bird Egg' and 'Peregion' showed relatively high yields, making them a viable marketing option for small-scale producers.
Scientists have observed an exoplanet named HD 80606 b that orbits its star at incredible distances, experiencing scorching temperatures and then plummeting to extremely cold temperatures as it moves away. This unique system challenges existing theories on the formation of hot Jupiters and may require alternative explanations.
Researchers at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center have identified a 5-gene classifier that can accurately detect early stages of pancreatic cancer, offering hope for earlier diagnosis and treatment. The classifier achieved high sensitivity and specificity rates in training and validation datasets.
A study led by Dr. Roger J. Hajjar and Dr. Woo Jin Park found that CCN5 protein can reverse established cardiac fibrosis in heart failure models. The researchers used trichrome staining to show the reversal of cardiac fibrosis, demonstrating potential for new anti-cardiac fibrosis therapies.
A new UT Dallas study found that teen driving curfews may prevent crimes. Arrests among teens ages 16-17 fell by as much as 6 percent in states with laws restricting nighttime driving hours, according to the study.
Scientists at Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology Graduate University identified 14 age-related compounds that decrease with age, including those related to muscle strength and antioxidants. These findings suggest the importance of consuming antioxidant-rich foods and exercising regularly after 65 to improve body conditions.
Cells have evolved several tactics to cope with DNA lesions and replication stress, including fork repriming, fork reversal, and replisome dynamics. Improper repair of DNA lesions can lead to mutations and genetic abnormalities.
Researchers at the University of Missouri School of Medicine have identified an enzyme that may reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease caused by HIV medications. The enzyme, heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), offers protection against endothelial cell dysfunction when used in conjunction with protease inhibitors.
A $1.6 million NIH-funded study aims to enhance disability and outcomes research for the deaf and hard-of-hearing population. Researchers developed a new PROMIS profile in American Sign Language to gather data from a nationwide sample of 650 participants.
The joint centre will leverage NTU's expertise in finance to train policymakers and finance executives on RMB policies. The centre aims to share research papers and maintain a comprehensive database for academic use.
Virginia Tech researchers have sequenced the Y chromosome of malaria-spreading mosquitoes, a key genetic driver of sex-determination and male fertility. The findings will help develop more effective mosquito control strategies by creating sterile males or reducing female populations.
A study found that increased arterial stiffness in young adults is associated with reduced white matter volume and decreased gray matter integrity. This association suggests that vascular health can impact brain health from an early age.
A new study published in the Journal of Consumer Psychology found that fear of death is a significant factor in people's reluctance to invest in annuities during retirement. Researchers discovered that individuals who were asked about their own mortality were 50% less likely to choose an annuity compared to those not asked about their ...
Researchers propose expectancy-based binding theory, which suggests that subjects remember features without necessarily attaching them to the target object. This contradicts traditional theories of object-based and feature-based encoding., Attention alone is not enough for accurate memory recall, according to the study.
Researchers have mapped the largest network of cortical neurons to date, shedding light on how brain circuits are organized. The study reveals modular architecture and functional specific connectivity between neurons, enabling reverse engineering of the brain's structure and function.
A new analysis suggests that malaria evolved in insects over 100 million years ago, with the first vertebrate hosts being reptiles and later dinosaurs. Understanding this ancient history may hold clues to interrupting malaria transmission through its most common vector, the Anopheles mosquito.
The American Heart Association recommends a wearable automatic defibrillator as an option for patients at risk of sudden cardiac death due to erratic heart rhythms. This device can provide a short-term alternative to an ICD and is especially suitable for patients who cannot undergo surgery.
A recent study published in HortScience provides new recommendations to increase the stock of blight-resistant American chestnut trees. Genetic engineering is proposed as a solution, with the addition of one gene, oxalate oxidase, protecting the tree from the fungus. The study also examined optimized propagation protocols using activat...
Research from the University of Texas at Dallas suggests that companies structure compensation contracts based on a manager's personality traits, not just firm characteristics. Overconfident CEOs receive more incentive-heavy compensation, which can drive shareholder value.
The EU-funded FP7 project EU BON shares stakeholder roundtable reports, providing insights on policy, citizen science, and local/regional stakeholders. The reports outline conclusions on biodiversity information, open-access availability, data workflows, and integration of citizen science.
A recent study by Boston University researchers found that almost a sixth of gas leaks in metropolitan Boston are potentially explosive and can pose significant safety risks. The study, published in Environmental Pollution, emphasizes the need for better detection methods to prioritize leak repairs.
A new study maps Neanderthal and Denisovan ancestry in modern humans, revealing previously unknown interbreeding events, especially in South Asians and Oceania populations. The research suggests that Denisovan genes may be linked to a more subtle sense of smell and high-altitude adaptations.
Researchers have created a safer and more efficient water-based system for synthesizing organic compounds, reducing reliance on volatile organic solvents and improving environmental sustainability. The new process also produces higher yields of product and allows for easy separation and extraction of the final compound.
Scientists have pinpointed a mechanism for cyclical tidal stresses to drive and sustain Enceladus's long-lived eruptions. The Cassini spacecraft has observed geysers erupting continuously along the south pole for decades.
A team of Korean researchers has successfully developed a way to fabricate an ultralight, high-density nanoporous gold material, known as Black Gold. This new material is twice as solid and 30% lighter than standard gold, with a wider surface area due to its unique nanostructure.
Researchers studied Agave species' response to saline soils and found two species, A. parryi and A. weberi, to be relatively tolerant to high levels of salinity. These findings suggest that cultivating these species in semiarid regions could increase production and address dwindling water reserves.
Two unique enzymes, AIG1 and ADTRP, have been discovered that play a role in metabolism and inflammation, potentially targeting type 2 diabetes and inflammatory disorders. The enzymes are moderately inhibited by lipase inhibitors, suggesting they may be used to boost FAHFAs, which normalize glucose levels and reduce inflammation.
New research finds quantum behavior of hydrogen affects structural properties of hydrogen-rich compounds, which may aid in search for room temperature superconductor. Quantum symmetrisation of hydrogen bond has significant impact on vibrational and superconducting properties.
Berkeley Lab scientists discover a family of nature-inspired polymers that spontaneously assemble into hollow crystalline nanotubes in water. The nanotubes have uniform diameters and can be tuned for specific functions, opening up new possibilities for filtration, desalination, and more.
A recent study discovered a genetic mutation linked to X-linked reticulate pigmentary disorder (XLPDR), a rare systemic disorder affecting 14 known families worldwide. The mutation affects the POLA1 gene, involved in DNA replication, and alters cellular mechanisms leading to aberrant splicing and immune responses.
NIST researchers create a piezo-optomechanical circuit that converts signals among optical, acoustic and radio waves. The system enables manipulating motion of nanoscale beam using energy exchange between phonons and photons.
Researchers at Stanford University School of Medicine have devised a new approach to identify and sequence DNA from cancer cells circulating in the blood, increasing sensitivity by 15 times. The 'integrated digital error suppression' technique builds upon a method called CAPP-Seq, allowing for accurate identification of actionable muta...
Scientists at NASA and the National Snow and Ice Data Center report that Arctic sea ice extent reached a record low wintertime maximum in 2016, with the lowest extent since satellite records began in 1979. The warming ocean waters are likely to contribute to continued declines in Arctic sea ice cover.
The American College of Physicians recommends various policies to stem the rising cost of prescription drugs, including transparency in pricing and comparative effectiveness research. The ACP also supports value-based decision-making and encourages competition through approaches like price negotiation by Medicare.
A new American Cancer Society study found that combustible tobacco cigarettes cost less to purchase than equivalent amounts of electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) in 44 of 45 countries sampled. The price gap exists despite the fact that e-cigarettes are not yet widely subjected to comparable excise taxes as combustible cigarettes.
A study published in Antimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy found that patients with S. aureus skin and soft tissue infections took only 57% of their prescribed antibiotic doses after leaving the hospital. This led to nearly half of them getting a new infection or requiring additional treatment.
Researchers found that shoppers who brought lists of familiar items relied on memory, while those with uncommon items benefited from walking through aisles to trigger memories. The study suggests bringing a list is key to successful shopping trips, regardless of item familiarity.
A new Tel Aviv University study reveals the rules that dictate which epigenetic responses will be inherited, and for how long. The research identifies specific genes, called MOTEK, that control the inheritance of epigenetic information.
Researchers at UCLA and Shanghai Jiao Tong University have developed a new feedback system control technique to pinpoint the best possible drug-dose ratios for treating tuberculosis. This approach has identified promising combination treatments that can kill bacteria much faster than standard regimens, potentially shortening treatment ...
Temple researchers are investigating novel compounds that activate cannabinoid receptor type 2 (CB2) to prevent HIV-associated neurocognitive disorder (HAND). The study aims to test the safety and effectiveness of these compounds in cell models and mice with HIV infection.
A new study from the University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston finds that higher rates of breastfeeding and vaccination significantly reduce the incidence of ear infections in babies. The study also suggests that lower smoking rates contribute to this decline.
A new thematic issue of The Open Urology & Nephrology Journal reports on the association between hyperuricemia and kidney disease. Chronic inflammation is a common link between the two conditions, with research exploring its role in uric acid excretion and progression of renal disease.
A study by Rutgers University researchers links Greenland's melting surface ice to shrinking Arctic sea ice and strong 'blocking-high' pressure systems. The findings highlight the increased threat of coastal communities as sea levels rise.
Researchers found that certain mandarin hybrid/rootstock combinations display significantly greater growth and cropping under high huanglongbing pressure. These scion/rootstocks showed increased tolerance to the disease, which could lead to commercially viable fruit production.
A team of UCI scientists led by Philip Felgner has received $8 million to develop a new vaccine for Q fever, a highly infectious agent considered a potential bioterrorism weapon. The vaccine aims to mitigate severe side effects of the current vaccine and is expected to be safer and more effective.
Researchers at USC and JPL are launching fungi into space to explore their potential as novel therapeutics for use both in space and on Earth. The study aims to discover new compounds that could be used to develop medicines for astronauts and potentially address life-threatening diseases like cancer and Alzheimer's.
Mount Sinai researchers found that testing service and time of collection significantly influenced results, with some test providers flagging more abnormal readings than others. The study highlights the importance of accurate lab test results in medical decision-making.
A new study published in JAMA Neurology detected evidence of concussions in patients up to 7 days after injury using a simple blood test. The discovery could greatly expand the window for diagnosing concussions, especially in children who experience delayed symptoms.
Researchers identified SH2 domains as lipid-binding modules for cell signaling. The interaction is evolutionarily conserved and plays a crucial role in controlling intracellular signal transmission.
Chemists at the University of Illinois have identified the complex chemical structure of alpha-synuclein, a protein that forms long fibrils in the brains of Parkinson's disease patients. This knowledge will help researchers identify specific targets for diagnosis and treatment.
qPAINT allows for accurate counting of biomolecules at specific locations within cells, extending the capabilities of DNA-PAINT and Exchange-PAINT techniques. The method utilizes transient interaction of short DNA strands to deduce molecular numbers with high precision.
Researchers have found that transient bladder contractions play a crucial role in sensing pressure and conveying information to sensory nerves. The frequency and rate of rise of these contractions may be fine-tuned by other cell types, offering potential targets for therapeutic intervention in urinary bladder dysfunction.
A new study led by Karen McKinnon at NCAR found that a distinct pattern of sea surface temperatures in the Pacific Ocean can predict an increased chance of summertime heat waves in the eastern US up to 50 days in advance. The research used data from 1,613 weather stations and daily sea surface temperatures to define extreme heat events...
Researchers at RHIC detected a key effect of the color interaction, which binds quarks within protons, for the first time. This measurement tests theoretical concepts essential for mapping the proton's three-dimensional internal structure.
Researchers at the University of Oklahoma and Arizona State University demonstrate that dental calculus can be used to recover high-quality genetic information from ancient humans. The study uses advanced sequencing technologies to extract DNA from six individuals, providing new insights into Native American archaeology.
Research from North Carolina State University highlights the importance of multimodal communication in academic writing instruction. The study found that more than half of faculty members assigned multimodal communication work to their students and engaged in it themselves, with presentations and formal writing being common forms.
Researchers at UCSB have cataloged patterns of vibration in the skin of the entire hand for the first time, enabling a greater understanding of how we sense the world through touch. These vibrations, which travel beyond the tips of the fingers, provide rich tactile information that helps us identify and navigate our surroundings.
Researchers found that cancer stem cells multiply through the same mechanism used by embryonic stem cells, encouraged by low oxygen levels. The discovery could offer a path to targeting cancer stem cells and reducing their threat in human cancer.