Medicare beneficiaries who receive home health services from lower-quality agencies are more likely to experience higher rates of hospital admissions and emergency department visits. Home health care is a critical area for addressing healthcare disparities, particularly among vulnerable populations.
Researchers have found that crystalline tungsten exhibits anisotropic resistivity, with smaller resistivity in certain orientations. The study's findings demonstrate the potential for tungsten to reduce nanowire resistance and may pave the way for new materials to replace copper interconnects.
Researchers found that patients with Crohn's disease have higher levels of fungus Candida tropicalis compared to healthy family members. Antifungals and probiotics could help restore balance to the microbiome, reducing inflammation.
New research reveals light-activated nanoparticles can re-potentiate existing antibiotics for certain clinical isolate infections. The nanoparticles release superoxide, making bacteria more susceptible to the original antibiotic and reducing effective resistance by a factor of 1,000.
Long-term mental exercises lead to specific restructuring of the social brain, including changes in gray matter volume and cortical thickness. This is associated with reduced indicators of stress and improved attention, compassion, and cognitive perspective-taking.
A recent study from the University of Rochester Medical Center found that teenagers who start high school before 8:30 a.m. are at higher risk of depression and anxiety, even with good sleep hygiene. The study suggests that later school start times may be a strong protective factor for teens.
A new study by Midwestern University found that physical and occupational therapists are at increased risk of contracting CMV due to lack of knowledge on prevention methods. The study highlights the need for educational initiatives to address the knowledge gap among these healthcare professionals.
A new study by University of Guelph researchers found that female ovarian hormones and a circadian 'clock' molecule protect women's heart health as they age. This discovery may help prevent heart disease in older adults, with implications for both men and women.
Researchers found that accurately transcribing DNA overrides DNA repair, with bacteria becoming hundreds of times more efficient at repairing DNA damage when the transcription fidelity factor GreA is absent. This discovery challenges traditional understanding and has significant implications for cancer research and evolution.
A study of Dutch children who lost a parent to intimate partner homicide found that two-thirds had experienced violence at home before the incident. The children were often not previously known to mental health and social services, highlighting a need for better support.
A new study uses DNA analysis of albatross feces to assess their diet and interactions with fisheries, revealing a high level of fishery involvement in some areas. This non-invasive technique provides a valuable tool for improving fisheries management and monitoring marine biodiversity.
Researchers have discovered Freon-40, an organohalogen, around two celestial objects: an infant star and a comet. The finding suggests that these molecules may form readily in stellar nurseries, providing insights into the chemical evolution of planetary systems.
A phase 1 clinical trial demonstrated the safety and ability of a new DNA-based Zika vaccine to elicit an immune response against the virus, with 100% of participants developing Zika-specific antibodies. The vaccine also showed promise in preventing infection in immunocompromised mice.
Researchers analyze how pay-it-forward college financing programs could increase college access, making attendance nearly universal. Income share agreements may deter people from attending college if incremental gain is relatively small, but subsidies would not necessarily decrease.
Researchers create nanostructures with aluminum core and metallic islands that capture light energy, enabling powered chemical reactions. The technique allows for customizable surface chemistry and reactivity in one material.
A clinical trial found that virtual reality tours of operating rooms reduced preoperative anxiety in children. The study used a 4-minute video showing Pororo the penguin visiting the OR, explaining its contents in a friendly manner.
A study led by St. Jude Children's Research Hospital found that fertility preservation is associated with increased optimism about the future for survivors, but remains underutilized by at-risk patients with cancer. Meeting with a fertility specialist and parental recommendations are key factors in deciding to bank sperm.
A longitudinal neuroimaging study found that fetal MRI can detect brain damage caused by Zika exposure in utero more effectively than standard ultrasound. The study revealed three pregnancies with abnormal fetal MRIs showing extensive areas of brain damage, which were not detected by ultrasound.
The CSAIL team developed a VR system that lets users teleoperate robots using an Oculus Rift headset. The system mimics the user's movements to complete various tasks, making it feel like they are inside the robot's head. This technology could enable blue-collar workers to telecommute and benefit from the IT revolution.
A new study found that childhood bullying causes mental health issues such as anxiety in the short term, but the negative impact decreases over time. The research, published in JAMA Psychiatry, used a robust study design to identify causation and suggests that children exposed to bullying can recover with continuous support.
This special issue of the Journal of African American Studies marks 40 years since Prince went pro, featuring scholarly analysis of his groundbreaking debut album For You. The collection provides fresh perspectives on Prince's innovative approach to music production and control.
A new study found that college students who dislike their classes are equally likely to cheat, regardless of whether instructors emphasize mastering content or good grades. The factor that best predicts cheating is a personality trait: high need for sensation.
A new study in The FASEB Journal reveals that over-expression of the GTRAP3-18 gene is linked to obesity in humans. Inhibiting its interaction with POMC might be a strategy for treating leptin/insulin resistance in patients with obesity and type 2 diabetes.
Researchers at Baylor College of Medicine discovered that silencing the Hippo signaling pathway can reverse severe heart failure in an animal model. The study found that inhibiting this pathway induces heart muscle cell proliferation and reduces fibrosis, leading to improved heart function.
Scientists will use NASA's James Webb Space Telescope to study the creation of the universe's first galaxies and stars. With its powerful spectrographic instruments, Webb will see much more detail than imaging alone can provide, allowing scientists to study how gases transformed into stars in the first galaxies.
Recent study in Journal of Wildlife Management suggests trophy hunting doesn't drive artificial selection, altering horn and antler sizes. Researchers argue that numerous obstacles counteract hunter selection, minimizing population-level changes.
High-risk newborns with congenital heart disease (CHD) exhibit reduced functional connectivity between key brain regions even before undergoing corrective open heart surgery. Global network organization remains intact, but small world networks show remarkable ability to withstand early-life brain injury.
A combination of biosolids, zinc, and limestone effectively lowers cadmium levels in spinach to non-toxic levels. This innovative approach aims to protect local producers and consumers by growing safe and profitable crops.
A new study found that high-intensity resistance and impact training for just 30 minutes, twice a week, improved bone density and structure in postmenopausal women with low bone mass. The exercise program was also associated with enhanced functional performance and reduced risk of osteoporotic fracture.
Plants form a symbiotic relationship with fungi, gaining key nutrients while also becoming more resistant to diseases and drought. The fungal symbiosis increases the plant's levels of certain hormones, making it more tolerant to environmental stressors and ultimately contributing to sustainable agriculture.
Tropical Depression 16 developed in the southwestern Caribbean Sea on Oct. 4, according to NASA imagery from Terra and Aqua satellites. The depression is forecast to bring heavy rainfall and life-threatening flash floods to parts of Nicaragua, with maximum sustained winds near 35 mph.
A new analysis highlights the importance of considering pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic aspects in establishing drug doses. The study found that more trials used pharmacology endpoints in 2015 compared to 2007, but some still escalated without documented assessment.
A study found that consuming high sugar diets increases fat levels in the blood and liver, raising cardiovascular health risks. Healthy men with low liver fat showed similar changes after consuming a high sugar diet, highlighting the importance of sugar intake regulation.
Researchers at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln have identified a Zika virus mutation that contains a sugar in its protein envelope, which may help the virus enter the brain. This discovery could explain why the virus became more lethal during outbreaks in the Caribbean and South America.
Anaerobic bacteria can produce vitamin ergothioneine in oxygen-free environments, challenging the previously oxygen-dependent theory. This discovery suggests that ergothioneine may have played a crucial role in early Earth's life forms.
The $1-million upgrade will enhance the Palmetto Cluster's power, supporting over 370 faculty members and students in various research fields. The new hardware is expected to enable state-of-the-art innovations in materials science, medicine, environment, and energy economy.
A new study found that ride-hailing services decrease alcohol-involved crashes in Portland and San Antonio, but not Reno. The researchers suggest city-specific characteristics may influence the impact of ride-hailing on crash rates.
Tropical Storm Ramon has revealed powerful storms around its center through infrared data from NASA-NOAA's Suomi NPP satellite. The storm is moving west-northwest at 7 mph, with slight strengthening forecast over the next 48 hours.
A team of researchers has discovered a type Ia supernova that can be explained by the ignition of helium on a white dwarf's surface, marking a significant breakthrough in understanding this phenomenon. The team used Hyper Suprime-Cam mounted on the Subaru Telescope to detect over 100 supernovae candidates in one night.
Researchers developed a predictive model using childhood blood-lead level records and census data to identify high-risk areas. The model highlights the importance of targeting poor and minority neighborhoods with interventions and support.
New research questions assumption that variability is key to population growth and survival. Variability in single-cell organisms can lower population growth rate in fixed environments.
A new DNA-based Zika vaccine candidate has demonstrated both safety and the ability to elicit an immune response against Zika in humans. The phase 1 clinical trial showed that participants produced an immune response against Zika with minimal adverse effects.
A 28-study analysis reveals night shift workers are more likely to develop abdominal obesity and experience an increased risk of obesity compared to permanent day workers. Modifying working schedules to avoid prolonged exposure to long-term night shifts might help reduce this risk, according to the study.
W. Stanley Wilson, founder of NASA's Oceanography from Space Program and organizer of the international coalition supporting the Argo observing system, is recognized for his key role in these initiatives. He will be formally recognized on February 13, 2018, during a ceremony at the Ocean Sciences Meeting.
Researchers have developed a new hybrid nanomaterial that can efficiently extract hydrogen fuel from seawater using solar energy. This breakthrough could lead to a new source of clean-burning fuel, reducing demand for fossil fuels and boosting the economy of Florida.
A first-of-its-kind study found that frontotemporal degeneration (FTD) causes substantial economic burden on patients and caregivers, with combined annual costs of $119,654. The study revealed significant impact on household income and quality of life, with most patients forced to leave the labor force during their prime earning years.
A Danish study found that one in four people leave their job within a year of returning to work after having a heart attack. The study analyzed long-term employment patterns and found that younger people, those with heart failure or depression, were more likely to drop out of the workforce.
Researchers have developed a synthetic molecule, SUW133, that awakens dormant HIV cells and then knocks them out. The technique, called 'kick and kill,' could lower the viral reservoir enough for people with HIV to discontinue their anti-viral therapy.
Researchers at Queen Mary University of London discovered an antidote that rapidly stops the intoxicating effects of synthetic cannabinoids like 'Spice'. The study used mice to test a molecule called AM251, which blocks cannabinoid receptors and leads to a loss of behavioral effects within minutes.
Researchers from the Max Planck Institute found that mental training changes brain structure and reduces social stress. The study used three 3-month training modules focusing on different competencies, including socio-affective and socio-cognitive abilities.
Astronomers have detected Freon-40, an organohalogen compound, around an infant star and a comet using ALMA and Rosetta. This finding suggests that organohalogens may be significant components of planetary formation materials, rather than indicators of life.
A new UCLA study shows that black tea alters energy metabolism in the liver by changing gut metabolites, promoting weight loss and improving lean body mass. Both black and green tea change the ratio of intestinal bacteria, with black tea stimulating the growth of beneficial bacteria.
Researchers discovered a simple chemical mimic of host defense peptides can cure bacterial infections, either alone or in combination with traditional antibiotics. The study suggests new alternatives for treating life-threatening bacterial threats.
A study found that Medicaid patients experienced surgical treatment delays more frequently than those with private insurance for melanoma surgeries. Non-white patients and those without dermatologist referrals also faced longer wait times.
A study published in The FASEB Journal suggests that resistance training can prevent age-related tendon problems, such as ruptures and tendinopathies. The study found that trained rats showed fewer signs of age-related damage than sedentary rats.
A USAID-funded campaign in Tanzania linked to increased prenatal visits, birth planning, and improved maternal health outcomes. The study found that women exposed to the campaign were more likely to create birth plans, attend prenatal appointments, and give birth at a health facility.
A study published in JAMA Cardiology found that public health initiatives led to increased bystander CPR (41% vs 28%) and first-responder defibrillation at home (51% vs 42%), resulting in improved survival rates for out-of-hospital cardiac arrest patients.
A study led by University of California, Davis found that spotted owls prefer forests with tall trees (over 105 feet) and high canopy cover, rather than dense understory. This discovery could resolve the management dilemma of balancing owl habitat with forest resilience to wildfires and droughts.
A Data Science Institute professor is leading a research team to develop an intelligent headphone system that detects sounds of approaching vehicles and sends audio alerts to pedestrians. The project aims to reduce pedestrian injuries and fatalities in crowded cities by providing a warning system for pedestrians wearing headphones.
The SIREN network pools resources to boost patient numbers for emergency medicine clinical trials, targeting vulnerable populations and life-threatening emergencies like heart attacks, lung disease, trauma, and more. The network aims to improve treatments and outcomes for patients in critical care situations.
Researchers found that a set of validated, self-reported questions can predict mental health problems like depression and PTSD after return from deployment. The questions assess 14 psychological attributes and can be used to identify high-risk individuals.
A laboratory-based study discovered that an alcohol aversion drug can reverse chemotherapy resistance in non-small cell lung cancer. The researchers found that the drug, Disulfiram, inhibited ALDH activity, reducing tumour cell growth and killing lung cancer stem cells.
Researchers have developed a minimally-invasive bioengineered material called RTG to cover neural tube defects in utero, offering an earlier gestational age approach to spina bifida repair. The study demonstrates the feasibility and potential of this alternative treatment method.
A new study reveals that the Malagasy striped whirligig beetle is an ultra-rare survivor with a genetic pedigree dating back at least 206 million years to the late Triassic period. The beetle's isolated location in Madagascar may have allowed it to persist, and it now thrives in marginal environments.
Researchers have created two new imaging agents that can visualize the formation of tumour-associated blood vessels and track tumour growth. These agents could provide personalized treatment options by identifying patients most likely to respond to therapies targeting new blood vessel growth, leading to more effective cancer treatment.
Research suggests that multivitamin use during pregnancy is associated with a lower likelihood of child autism spectrum disorder (ASD) with intellectual disability. However, study limitations and inconsistent findings warrant further investigation to verify these results.
A new study projects significant increases in severe turbulence worldwide by 2050-2080 due to climate change. Flights over the North Atlantic and Europe will experience up to two or three times more turbulence than usual, while Asia and other regions will see a 60% increase.
A study found that healthcare professionals' recommendations were the most important factor in driving decisions by women at high risk of breast cancer to take selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs) for chemoprevention. The recommendation played a statistically significant role and was associated with attitudes, beliefs, and ex...
Collaborative nuclear medicine and radiology training options are proposed to address evolving practice needs, while an alternative view emphasizes the importance of independent training programs. Innovative theranostics advances in nuclear medicine are highlighted as a result of dedicated training programs.
A new test developed at Caltech can identify antibiotic-resistant bacteria in as little as 30 minutes, allowing doctors to choose the most effective antibiotics. The test has been proven accurate with a 95% match rate, and researchers hope to expand its use to other types of infections.
Researchers sequenced a habu genome and compared it to its sister species, shedding light on the evolution of snake venoms. Genetic drift plays a significant role in the evolution of snake venom, according to the study.
Most new cancer drugs fail to extend or improve patient life, with many approved on surrogate measures. Only 51% of cancer indications showed survival or quality of life gains after a median 5 years on the market. This raises concerns about regulatory standards and the need for rigorous testing.
The Congenital Zika Virus Program at Children's National evaluated 36 women and their fetuses, revealing that 89% had been bitten by Zika-tainted mosquitoes or exposed via sex with an infected partner. Tragically, four fetuses suffered severe birth defects, leading to two non-viable pregnancies and one infant death.
The 2017 Nobel Prize in Chemistry was awarded to Jacques Dubochet, Joachim Frank, and Richard Henderson for developing cryo-electron microscopy. This technology allows researchers to freeze biomolecules mid-movement and define protein structures at atomic resolution.
A study by Cornell University psychologist Amy Krosch found that when resources are scarce, prejudiced individuals discriminate more against black recipients than white recipients. Egalitarian participants, on the other hand, tend to give more funding to protect racial minority group members.
A new UC Berkeley study found that serving time behind bars increases likelihood of return to prison, often due to technical parole violations. The research suggests that alternatives to imprisonment for parole violators, such as treatment programs or community service, might slow down the revolving door.
A recent international study conducted by researchers from the University of the Basque Country and other institutions found that people are more likely to trust those who share their political ideas than those with differing opinions. In contrast, partisan discrimination was found to be a significant problem in many countries.
Febuxostat reduced gout flares and synovitis in a 2-year study of adults with early gout. Urate-lowering therapy may benefit people after one or two prior gout flares.
A new study published in Nature Communications outlines the mechanisms of converting permafrost carbon to CO2, highlighting the importance of sunlight and the right microbial community. The research found that sunlight enhances decay by some microbial communities, making frozen carbon more accessible to others.
Researchers used computer modeling to understand how E. coli bacteria can unlink tangled DNA by a local reconnection process. The study found that undoing one link at a time is the preferred route to separate the circles of DNA, with implications for other complex systems in nature.
A study found that women tend to gossip more about their rivals' physical appearance and enjoy it more than men. Men, on the other hand, often gossip about others' achievements, demonstrating sex differences in gossiping behavior.
A 75-year analysis of aerial photos reveals Greenlandic deltas are growing due to warmer temperatures. The study alters previous understanding of Arctic coast climate change effects.
A blood test for human papillomavirus (HPV) may help forecast treatment response in throat cancer patients, according to preliminary findings. Patients with low or undetectable HPV16 levels in the blood had higher risk of persistent or recurrent disease.
Weeds like common waterhemp and Palmer amaranth can reduce corn and soybean yields by up to 80%, while resistant weeds are developing resistance to available herbicides. To combat this, researchers suggest diversifying weed management practices with crop rotation, weed suppressive cultivars, and other tactics.
A new study in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine found that older adults are more likely to disclose suicidal thoughts as they age, especially those with chronic pain, diagnosed illness, social isolation, and recent mental health care. Researchers identified four key interventions to prevent suicide among older adults.
A new study found that childhood bullying exposure contributes to multiple mental health issues, particularly anxiety and depression. The study suggests that the effects of bullying on mental health dissipate over time, highlighting potential resilience in children who were bullied.
A study published by the American Academy of Neurology found that high blood pressure in women's 40s is associated with a 65% increased risk of dementia. Women who developed high blood pressure in their 40s were 73% more likely to develop dementia than those with stable blood pressure throughout their 30s and 40s.
A collaborative study has found that a combination of three monoclonal antibodies prevents Zika virus infection in primates. The treatment completely blocked the virus from taking hold in the animals, indicating a promising intervention to protect uninfected pregnant women and their fetuses.
James R. Ledwell's pioneering work on oceanic mixing and air-sea gas exchange earned him a spot among the Oceanography Society's esteemed Fellows. His groundbreaking techniques, including the deliberate tracer release experiment (TRE), have significantly advanced our understanding of ocean circulation.
Researchers report that a gene therapy to treat cerebral adrenoleukodystrophy has effectively stabilized the disease's progression in 88 percent of patients. Fifteen out of 17 patients had stable neurologic functioning more than two years after receiving the treatment.
A study of low-income children in New York City found that prenatal exposure to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) combined with material hardship significantly increases ADHD symptoms. The researchers assessed levels of PAH exposure and material hardship in maternal blood and child behavior, finding a strong correlation between th...
A new study develops a super-elastic surgical sealant that effectively seals wounds in organs with moving tissues. The MeTro gel, based on elastin, can be photochemically tuned to bond well to tissue surfaces and seamlessly close incisions without running away.
Researchers discovered that chromatin fragments outside the nucleus activate a DNA-sensing pathway, leading to chronic inflammation and tissue damage. The study aims to develop small molecules targeting this inflammatory pathway to treat age-related diseases.
A newly engineered material, MeTro sealant, has been developed to seal lung tissue without sutures, showing complete sealing and evidence of promoting wound healing in laboratory tests. The sealant is derived from human protein and has improved biocompatibility compared to existing synthetic sealants.
A study published in PLOS ONE found an ornamented bâton percé with antler from a reindeer species, suggesting long-distance exchange between Mesolithic communities. The artifact was likely transported from North Karelia to Central Poland, providing new insight into the flow of goods and ideas in Early Holocene hunter-gatherer groups.
A new study found that delays in melanoma surgery are common among Medicaid and privately insured patients, highlighting the need for better access to specialty care. The likelihood of surgical delay decreased when dermatologists performed operations or made diagnoses.
A study published in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society found that older adults with multiple sensory losses had worse mobility, difficulty performing daily activities, and increased risk for dying. The researchers concluded that these individuals should be closely monitored to prevent problems.
Researchers demonstrate an engineering approach to combine four drugs and control parasitic worms, a major breakthrough in treating nematode infections. The technique, developed by Chih-Ming Ho, uses a feedback system to quickly identify potent drug combinations that are effective on a small-animal model organism.
Researchers at Joslin Diabetes Center found that mice on a fatty diet who consumed high levels of fructose suffered worse metabolic effects compared to those given similar calories of glucose. The study highlighted the increased production of an enzyme called Khk, which is specifically important in fructose metabolism.
Researchers compare sanitation systems in Brazil and USA, finding presence of contaminants in drinking water, including industrial compounds, pesticides, and endocrine disrupters. The study suggests that complementary treatments are needed to obtain clean water that can be safely consumed.
A recent study by UCLA researchers found that low-cost, high-volume services account for a large portion of unnecessary healthcare spending in the US. The study analyzed data from Virginia's healthcare system and found that these services cost the state over $586 million in 2014.
Developed by the University of Sydney and Northeastern University, MeTro combines elastic protein technologies with light-sensitive molecules to seal wounds quickly and effectively. The glue sets in 60 seconds and has a built-in degrading enzyme to determine its longevity.
Researchers at the University of Queensland have discovered modified peptides that can enhance plant growth and development. The study, published in Cell Chemical Biology, found that these peptides can regulate root development and increase productivity, leading to improved agricultural sustainability and food security.
A new study by University of Illinois expert Ravi Mehta found that monetary rewards enhance creative performance, while social-recognition rewards have a negative impact. This research has practical applications for companies looking to boost creativity in their employees and for individuals seeking motivation to think outside the box.
Montana State researchers are studying the role of the human gut microbiome in detoxifying arsenic after ingestion. They aim to understand how microorganisms metabolize arsenic and potentially lower cancer risk through this process.
Researchers found that climate in northeast Africa shifted from wet to very dry around 70,000 years ago, coinciding with human migration out of Africa. The team's analysis of sediment cores revealed a significant drop in sea surface temperature and rainfall patterns, making the environment less hospitable for human habitation.
A team of UMass Amherst computer scientists are part of a four-institution consortium awarded $4.5 million by the Army Research Labs to develop predictive battlefield analytics and services. The project aims to create a seamless network between humans and technology to give soldiers a competitive edge in future military operations.
A new study published in Brain Behavior and Immunity appears to challenge the theory that microglia play a role in fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD). The research found no difference in microglial activity between mice exposed to alcohol early in development and healthy animals.
Scientists have developed a method to detect antibiotic susceptibility for urinary tract infections in under 30 minutes. This breakthrough could enable patients to receive effective treatments during a single clinical visit.
Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh have developed a new approach to reduce adhesion in small parts, which is expected to improve next-generation microdevices. The study uses nanomaterials to create rough surfaces that prevent tiny objects from sticking together.
A Swedish national adoption study found that children of divorced parents are more likely to get divorced due to genetic factors, not environmental influences. The study suggests that targeting basic personality traits linked to divorce may be a better approach for therapists.
Scientists have discovered a new molecule that stimulates blood vessel formation, which could help treat non-healing wounds and injuries associated with diabetes. The discovery has the potential to reduce the number of limbs amputated due to diabetes, offering a cost-effective treatment option.
Yale researchers have identified the molecular mechanism driving BRCA1 gene mutations' association with breast cancer, offering hope for personalized treatment plans and increased cancer detection accuracy.
A study published in JAMA Surgery found that patients undergoing major abdominal surgery with lower health literacy levels experience longer hospital stays. Patients with low health literacy spent an additional median of one day in the hospital compared to those with high health literacy.
LSU Health New Orleans' Precision Medicine team will participate in the National Institutes of Health's All of Us Research Program, aiming to gather information from 1 million or more participants. The program seeks to design individualized approaches to disease prevention and treatment using diverse data sets.
Researchers discovered how TORC1 protein complexes regulate cell growth in response to sugar availability. In the absence of sugar, these complexes self-assemble into massive tubular structures that halt cell growth. The formation and disassembly of these tubules can be easily observed in living cells.