Medical expenditures in the US have increased by 47% between 1996-1997 and 2011-2012, mainly due to higher prescription drug use. However, primary care physician visits and home health care costs remained relatively stable.
Researchers have discovered a 'reverse energy cascade' that traps rising magma in the crust, forming massive granite bodies like Yosemite's El Capitan. This process helps build better understanding of volcanoes, their impacts on global climate, and where large volcanoes are likely to occur.
Patient recordings of doctor's visits are becoming more common, but laws governing them vary by state. In states with 'one-party' consent rules, patients can record clinical encounters without the doctor's permission, while in 'all-party' jurisdictions, covert recordings are illegal unless all parties consent.
Researchers studied the structure of MDGA1/Neuroligin-2 complex, revealing how it negatively modulates synapse development. The study provides key findings on the mechanism of action of MDGAs in regulating excitatory/inhibitory synapses.
Scientists found that selecting longer-lived sperm increases the survival prospects and quality of offspring. The study used zebrafish to demonstrate that this selection can also carry over to the next generation. Longer-lived sperm produced offspring with higher fitness, including increased survival rates and faster swimming speeds.
A recent study suggests that the human herpesvirus 6 (HHV-6) may impede the brain's ability to repair itself in diseases like multiple sclerosis. The virus produces a protein called U94 that can impair the normal function of cells in the brain, potentially accelerating disease progression.
A team of UA astronomers proposes a scenario that reconciles observed disk features and the population of planets in our galaxy. They simulated protoplanetary disks using synthetic observations to account for the formation of multiple gaps, challenging conventional theories.
Scientists from the University of Cambridge and Tokyo Institute of Technology found that rangeomorphs, some of the first large organisms, grew up to two meters tall by changing their body shape to extract nutrients. This adaptation allowed them to thrive in a changing ocean environment.
A team of Würzburg physicists has developed a new concept for topological insulators that can process data at room temperature, eliminating the need for extreme cooling. This breakthrough could lead to efficient information technology and advances in spintronics.
Researchers found that Ptbp2 regulates RNA processing during sperm development, controlling over 200 genes involved in movement and communication. Without the protein, sperm development went awry, leading to defects in cellular processes.
Researchers found that adults with bulimia nervosa have elevated reward-related brain activation in response to taste, which may explain their drive to eat even when not hungry. The study suggests that new treatment therapies targeting specific brain pathways could be effective.
A study found that age and obesity create a perfect storm that damages the tiny blood vessels that directly feed the heart muscle, leading to reduced blood flow and increased risk of heart failure. The inflammation caused by both factors thickens the walls of these microvasculature, making them less able to dilate and sustain the heart.
Researchers at Ohio State University have created ice crystals with near-perfect cubic arrangement of water molecules, a form of ice that may exist in high-altitude clouds. The ability to study cubic ice in the lab could improve computer models of climate change and enhance our understanding of water.
A new study indicates that Holocaust survivors have a small but consistent increase in cancer risk, linked to extreme population-level tragedies. Survivors exposed to starvation, overcrowding, and psychological stress had higher risks of developing certain types of cancer, including colorectal and lung cancers.
A large-scale study of daily step data from anonymous smartphone users in over 100 countries reveals how countries, genders, and community types fare in terms of physical activity. The study found that countries with greater activity variation have a larger proportion of inactive women and higher obesity rates.
A network of microscopic crystals in magma can act like guard rails to channel gas out, lessening internal pressure and reducing explosiveness. The discovery challenges the prevailing assumption that silica content is the major driver of gas escape.
A new study challenges a sociological theory that explains how men respond to sexual assault with anger and criminal activity, while women are more likely to respond with depression and sadness. Researchers found that male victims of sexual assault have higher depression scores than individuals who have not been sexually assaulted.
A recent study published in Annals of Internal Medicine found that moderate to heavy coffee consumption was linked to a lower risk of death from various causes. The research, which analyzed data from over 215,000 participants, suggests that the association is not tied to caffeine.
A new review paper emphasizes the need for tailored approaches to address unique health needs of women, particularly minority populations. The paper highlights the importance of sex and gender science, personalized care, and public reporting of data to improve cardiovascular health outcomes.
A new gene mutation, RFWD3, has been linked to defective DNA repair and Fanconi anemia, a rare genetic disorder. The mutation was found in a 12-year-old patient without known Fanconi anemia genes, and cells from the patient showed increased susceptibility to DNA damage.
A team of international researchers, including those from Kansas State University, successfully decoded the genetic code of wild emmer, a wild ancestor of wheat. This allows for comparisons with modern wheat varieties to be made, potentially leading to improvements in traits such as drought tolerance and disease resistance.
The Wyss Center is working on a $19M project to develop a high-resolution, implantable neural interface network that can record and stimulate neural activity. The system, dubbed 'neurograins', aims to provide new treatments for sensory deficits and monitor physiological parameters in real-time.
A landmark study found that people who drink around three cups of coffee per day may live longer than non-coffee drinkers. Higher levels of coffee consumption were associated with reduced risk of death from all causes, particularly circulatory and digestive diseases.
A team of architects and chemists from the University of Cambridge has designed super-stretchy and strong fibres almost entirely composed of water. The new method improves upon earlier methods of making synthetic spider silk without high-energy procedures or extensive use of harmful solvents.
A cluster randomized factorial trial found that training and support have a lasting impact on primary care clinicians' delivery of screening and advice to heavy drinkers. The study suggests that repeated training and support can lead to an increase in the volume of brief interventions delivered to heavy drinking patients.
A new study describes a method to save lives in chemical attacks by predicting the trajectory of released chemical plumes. The research team developed an early warning prediction system using a weather forecasting model and local sensor data, which was able to accurately predict the spread of gas in a recent Syrian attack.
A study by The Ottawa Hospital found that delayed emergency surgeries are associated with a higher mortality risk, longer hospital stays, and increased healthcare costs. The researchers also identified reasons for delays, including lack of operating room or staff availability.
A University of Alberta study found that patients receiving 24/7 intensivist physician care had a lower risk of major complications and readmission compared to those cared for by resident physicians. Patients also experienced less time on mechanical ventilation and fewer surgical postponements.
A new study finds over 30% of vertebrate species are declining in population size and range, with tropical regions hit hardest. The research suggests that the disappearance of species tells only part of the story of human impact on Earth's animals.
Researchers have documented a rare phenomenon where humpback whales flap their foreflippers like penguins or sea lions to move forward. This novel behavior helps scientists understand the abilities and anatomy of these mysterious animals.
Scientists have introduced a new, phosphorus-containing rubber analogue with similar properties to natural rubber. The polymerization of this compound offers prospects for further derivatization and crosslinking, enabling unique architectures and properties in commercial rubbers.
A collaborative effort between citizen volunteers and researchers has led to the identification of seven fly species that parasitize monarch butterfly caterpillars. The study found that 9.8% of monitored monarchs were parasitized, with Lespesia archippivora being the most abundant species.
Research found a link between maternal smoking during pregnancy and increased odds of juvenile conduct disorder and adult antisocial personality disorder. The association was independent of other risk factors often present in smokers, suggesting a small to moderate causal effect on offspring's behavior.
Brown University is developing a fully implantable wireless brain interface system with 'neurograins' that can record and stimulate neural activity with unprecedented detail. The system aims to create a cortical intranet of wireless micro-devices for safe and precise brain-computer interaction.
A new clinical decision rule uses point scores and C-reactive protein to diagnose acute rhinosinusitis with good accuracy. The rule successfully identifies patients at low risk for bacterial infection, leading to more conservative use of antibiotics.
A research team has revealed intrinsic gene expression patterns of glioblastoma tumors, which could drive more effective treatments. The study found that tumor microenvironment cells contribute to the 'ecosystem' of hundreds of GBM tumors, influencing treatment outcomes and response to immunotherapy.
A meta-analysis of 25 years of research reveals that perceived overqualification leads to negative job attitudes, psychological strain, and deviant behaviors. Younger, overeducated, and narcissistic individuals are more likely to report higher levels of perceived overqualification.
NASA satellites studied Hurricane Eugene in infrared and visible light, capturing images of its eye opening and closing. The storm caused dangerous ocean swells along the western coast of Baja California, Mexico, despite being far from land.
Researchers at CNIO found that Plk1 inhibitors can cause hypertension and severe cardiovascular problems, suggesting a need for more thorough studies on protein functions. The study used laboratory mice to model human diseases, revealing the critical role of Plk1 in maintaining blood pressure.
Researchers found that particular bonobo males have a strong advantage over others when it comes to fathering offspring, with one male fathering over 60% of the next generation. This finding challenges previous assumptions about female choice and social dynamics in bonobos.
Forensic scientists at Nagoya University have successfully extracted human DNA from mosquitoes' stomachs and amplified it using PCR techniques. The team found that human DNA remained viable in mosquito blood for up to two days after feeding, providing a new tool for crime scene investigators.
Residents reflect on patient struggles, joys, and future goals to cultivate inner lives and balance professional and personal selves. Writing reflections helps physicians integrate their emotions, spirituality, and clinical expertise.
Scientists successfully demonstrated quantum communication between a satellite and a ground station, enabling the development of future satellite constellations. The technology uses lasers for high power efficiency and smaller terminals, facilitating the adoption of quantum key distribution for secure information transmission.
A NASA study found that human presence in closed habitats increases fungal diversity and changes the composition of the mycobiome. Fungi, known for their ability to thrive in harsh environments, can become opportunistic pathogens in humans.
A study by Johns Hopkins Medicine suggests that on-site pill-testing services can reduce the risks associated with recreational drug use. The researchers found that people are more likely to reject taking a pill if it contains harmful additives or is adulterated.
Researchers at the University of New Hampshire have successfully extended the state's strawberry growing season to 19 weeks, increasing marketable fruit from 70% to 83%. The project uses low tunnels and day-neutral varieties to improve berry quality and extend the season.
A new dissolvable device made from polyethylene glycol and dihydroxyacetone has shown promise in preventing intestinal damage during surgical incisions. The flexible material can be left behind in the abdominal cavity, protecting vital structures until the final sutures are made.
A comprehensive global effort is needed to address the growing burden of hearing loss, with half a billion people affected worldwide. The proposal emphasizes increased access to screenings, treatments, and preventive measures, as well as low-cost interventions using smartphones and telemedicine.
Researchers found that high-load training conditions the nervous system to transmit electrical signals from the brain to muscles, increasing force production. The study replicated previous findings with similar growth in muscle but greater strength gains in the high-load group.
A new study published in Nature Communications has found that the hygroscopicity of inorganic components in sea spray is significantly lower than previously thought. This discovery could alter our understanding of how sea spray affects global climate patterns, as it influences cloud formation and solar radiation interaction.
Experts warn that concussions in Para athletes are a growing concern due to the high-risk nature of certain sports. Key findings include a lack of guidance on managing concussion in Para sports and inadequate assessment tools, making it challenging to identify and address potential head injuries.
A Temple-led research team found a notable decrease in IVC filter usage following the FDA advisory, with implantation rates remaining high compared to European countries. The study also showed that VTE-related hospitalization rates remained steady despite the decline in IVC filter use.
A malaria drug approved for treating certain autoimmune diseases during pregnancy may also reduce the transmission of Zika virus from mother to fetus. The study found that inhibiting autophagy with hydroxychloroquine limited Zika infection in fetal head and led to a larger body size, suggesting potential benefits.
According to a study published in Nature Ecology & Evolution, plants produce defensive chemicals like methyl jasmonate that deter herbivores. When these chemicals are present, caterpillars become more likely to turn to cannibalism, benefiting the plant by reducing herbivore populations.
A new study suggests that certain viruses in the intestines may affect a person's chance of developing Type 1 diabetes. Children with less diverse gut viral communities are more likely to generate self-destructive antibodies, while those carrying a specific circovirus group are less likely to develop the disease.
The SRK-015 antibody program demonstrated beneficial effects in a preclinical model of spinal cord injury, reducing muscle atrophy, fat infiltration, and improving muscle function. The findings support the potential of SRK-015 to address unmet needs in treating degenerative neuromuscular conditions.
Researchers at Marshall University found that patients who recover from invasive pneumococcal pneumonia have a significantly shortened lifespan compared to life expectancy tables. The study suggests that pneumococcal vaccination is crucial for all adults over 65 and younger adults with chronic diseases.
Two new species of fish, Leporinus enyae and Leporinus villasboasorum, have been named by scientists from the Orinoco River drainage after Irish singer Enya. The discoveries highlight the region's biodiversity and the importance of preserving unique lineages.
Researchers at Medical University of South Carolina found a significant correlation between microstructural white matter changes and aphasia recovery after speech therapy. The study supports the dual-stream language model and highlights the importance of structural plasticity in semantic skills, leading to improved treatment outcomes.
The presence of surface and buried crude oil affects redox in wetland soils under flooded and drained conditions. Researchers found that oil slowed oxygen transport into the root zone, increasing stress on plants.