A study published in JAMA Internal Medicine found that Medicare overpaid hospitals by an estimated $1.28 billion annually for Graduate Medical Education (GME) programs. Capping GME payment rates could free up over $1 billion, potentially addressing doctor shortages and strengthening the physician workforce in underserved areas.
A graphene filter developed by Rice University scientists can capture and sanitize airborne pathogens, including bacteria, fungi, and viruses. The filter uses Joule heating to kill trapped microbes and their toxic byproducts, potentially reducing hospital infections.
Scientists at the University of Dundee have mapped how T lymphocytes control expression of over 9,000 proteins in response to infections and tumours. The study reveals critical discoveries on how immune-suppressive drugs work and how oxygen and nutrient environments shape immune responses.
Researchers analyzed fossil data to discover nearly all early African herbivore communities were unique before 700,000 years ago. This suggests the earliest humans lived in non-analog ecosystems that differ from modern Africa's ecosystems.
New research from Lancaster University and Heriot-Watt University reveals that Ethiopian parents' attempts to level the playing field for disadvantaged children by investing more in education are ultimately ineffective. The study found that even with greater investments, low-ability outcomes persist later in childhood.
Researchers found that parents are more willing to allow their children to bike on multi-use pathways than on low-stress streets. Only 44% of parents would let their kids ride on wide residential streets and 32% on narrow ones.
A new algorithm combines the capabilities of two spacecraft instruments, enabling lower-cost and higher-efficiency space missions. The virtual super instrument uses deep learning to analyze ultraviolet images and synthesize useful scientific data.
Researchers at the German Sport University explored the effects of full-body exergaming in VR on cardiovascular system and strength endurance. Results showed that VR-based training had little to no cardiovascular benefit but created incentives for increased physical activity, motivating users to take up exercise.
Astronomers have discovered a year-long plateau in the decline of Type Ia supernova light curves, challenging previous expectations. This unexpected behavior will impact the way astronomers measure the expansion of the universe and provide new insights into these powerful explosions.
Researchers develop new synthesis method to create molecules with partial structures of fullerenes, graphene, and carbon nanotubes. They successfully synthesize catenanes and knots, which are expected to be used in molecular machines and have specific properties derived from the topology.
A UK-wide collaboration has identified a genetic variant carried by 40% of the population that explains why some patients develop antibodies against anti-TNF drugs and lose response. This discovery could lead to individualized treatment strategies for patients with Crohn's disease.
The study used the 18F-labelled PSMA-1007 radiotracer to detect recurrent and metastatic prostate cancer, which was not identified by conventional diagnostic imaging. The hospital aims to spread nuclear medicine that uses drugs labeled with α-emitting radionuclides for higher therapeutic effects.
Researchers at the University of California, Davis have successfully genome-edited a dairy bull to prevent it from growing horns, and their findings show that none of its offspring developed horns. The study also highlights the need for screening and selection to address plasmid integration when using genome-editing in livestock.
Researchers found that ancient plant and animal communities differed significantly from today's, with a greater diversity of megaherbivores and non-ruminant species. The study suggests that environmental changes driven by grassland expansion and arid climate pulses may have influenced human evolution.
Exposure to violence negatively impacts physical and psychosocial health in urban adults. Social isolation and loneliness are associated with limited physical activity, poor nutrition, and increased risk of cardiovascular disease. Chronic hypervigilance also linked to increased blood pressure, memory impairment, and anxiety disorders.
Researchers at UVA School of Medicine found that oligodendrocyte progenitor cells, previously thought to be harmless, actively participate in the immune system's attacks on myelin in multiple sclerosis. This discovery offers new hope for finding a cure by promoting brain repair and targeting both aspects of the pathology.
A new study from Iowa State University highlights the need to update agricultural drainage infrastructure, which can benefit crop production and the environment. The research recommends installing higher capacity pipes and implementing long-term conservation practices, such as denitrification wetlands, bioreactors, and saturated buffers.
The article emphasizes the need for cross-disciplinary research on renewable energy storage and solar energy conversion. Scientists discuss ways to remove carbon from energy sources, crucial to avoiding climate change's worst consequences.
Researchers have discovered that patients' blood samples and tumour biopsies can reveal early signs of lung cancer spreading and becoming untreatable. The TRACERx project has identified possible causes of recurrence and developed new techniques to predict tumour aggression.
A new study estimates that about one-quarter of total US health care spending is waste, ranging from $76 billion to $94 billion. The authors found that the estimated annual cost of waste was $265.6 billion, with potential savings ranging from $191 billion to $282 billion
A study published in Journal of the American College of Cardiology shows that oral anticoagulant dabigatran slows Alzheimer disease progression in mice by improving cerebral circulation. The treatment reduces typical symptoms like inflammation and amyloid protein plaques.
Advances in medications, lifestyle changes, and technologies can help manage post-meal blood sugar levels, but more research is needed to pinpoint a target range and improve clinical outcomes. Small lifestyle changes, such as eating protein and vegetables before carbohydrates, can also lower blood glucose levels.
Researchers found that young infants with fevers are more likely to develop serious bacterial infections. Infants under eight weeks old have a doubled risk of developing such infections. Parents are encouraged to seek immediate medical attention if their child develops a fever over 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit.
The National Institute on Aging announced winners of its Eureka competition, which aims to spur technological innovations in dementia care. MapHabit took first place with a mobile app helping people with dementia follow simple commands and receive feedback from caregivers.
The ancient Maya created massive agricultural features in wetlands to respond to population and environmental pressures. This study reveals that the Maya had earlier, more intensive and more wide-ranging anthropogenic impacts on globally important tropical forests than previously known.
Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center will conduct clinical research into eosinophilic gastrointestinal disorders, trained investigators and patient advocacy groups will participate in the Consortium of Eosinophilic Gastrointestinal Disease Researchers. The NIH grant renewal aims to improve understanding and treatment of chroni...
Research investigates how diet and excess blood glucose influence Alzheimer's pathology, providing new insights into the link between diabetes and Alzheimer's disease. The study aims to develop therapies targeting glucose pathways, offering potential treatments for this debilitating condition.
Researchers at Imperial College London identified key factors for successful conservation initiatives, including facilitating contact between adopters and potential adopters. Most initiatives followed a slow-fast-slow model, where initial adoption is slow but grows quickly as more early adopters connect with potential adopters.
A study published in Nature Immunology identified neutrophils as a key player in the development of allergic asthma, particularly in pro-allergic environments such as excessive hygiene and air pollution. Compounds like pulmozyme may prevent disease development by destroying DNA released by neutrophils.
Scientists at Carnegie Institution improve thermoelectric performance by applying pressure and mixing in charged particles of chromium, enabling efficient room-temperature electricity generation
A study from Nationwide Children's Hospital finds rural areas have a higher rate of reported cases, particularly during school months. Common medications such as OTC analgesics are involved in these incidents, emphasizing the importance of safe storage and supervision.
The Housing First model significantly reduces homelessness in the long term, especially for those with high needs for mental health support services. After six years, participants in the Housing First group had stable housing an average of 85% of the time.
Terry Chapin, a University of Alaska Fairbanks professor emeritus, has been awarded the 2019 Volvo Environment Prize for his groundbreaking work on Earth stewardship. His research focuses on the interconnectedness of ecosystems and human impact on the environment.
Researchers developed a new oral delivery device that can carry insulin and other protein drugs, protecting them from the acidic environment of the stomach. The capsule contains microneedles that attach to the intestinal wall and release the drug for uptake into the bloodstream, enabling fast and pain-free delivery.
A recent study reveals that thalidomide causes developmental abnormalities by inducing the breakdown of two types of p63 proteins, leading to limb defects and ear damage. The findings may contribute to the re-emergence of safe, non-teratogenic thalidomide-derived drugs as cancer and inflammatory disease treatments.
Researchers at Max Planck Institute for Chemical Physics of Solids spot axion particles in correlated Weyl semimetal (TaSe2I) below -11 °C. The discovery reveals novel properties of axion particles, which can conduct electrical current in a distinct manner from electrons.
A Penn Medicine study shows delivering a 'distant cousin' of a key protein prevents muscle damage and maintains muscle function in both small and large animal models. The synthetic substitute, utrophin, proved to be an effective and safe alternative to dystrophin, with significant implications for gene therapy.
Research analyzing data from 44,993 MSM across 28 African countries found that only 19% of those with HIV were aware of their status, and only 24% were taking anti-retroviral therapy (ART). The UNAIDS targets of 90-90-90 by 2020 will not be achieved among MSM in Africa if the current situation remains unchanged.
The study aims to measure whether using eyeglasses to correct astigmatism in toddlers improves language, cognitive, and motor development. Researchers will divide children with astigmatism into two groups: one receiving traditional support and the other with significant additional clinical support to encourage wear.
Researchers found higher levels of stress hormone corticosterone in white-tailed sea eagles near paths or roads, but not on breeding success. Protection zone regulations may need adjustment to prevent negative effects on breeding performance.
A meta-analysis of 44,993 African men who have sex with men found that severe anti-LGBT legislation is associated with lower HIV testing rates and reduced awareness of the disease. The study suggests that countries with more protective and progressive legislation have higher testing rates.
Researchers have developed a novel statistical analysis to determine the global picture of how the ocean helps predict the low-level atmosphere and vice versa. The study reveals that the ocean influences the atmosphere almost everywhere in the extratropics, shedding light on regional climate prediction.
A new study has found that e-cigarette smoke caused lung cancer and bladder issues in mice exposed to nicotine. The study, published in the Proceedings of National Academy of Sciences, found that 22.5% of mice developed lung adenocarcinomas after exposure to e-cig smoke with nicotine for 54 weeks.
Research found black individuals were 50% less likely than white individuals to be prescribed newer medications for Type 2 diabetes. Monitoring of patients' conditions was also lower among ethnic minorities and those from disadvantaged backgrounds.
A randomized clinical trial found that providing free essential medicines increased adherence to treatment among patients who couldn't afford their medications. The study showed a significant improvement in systolic blood pressure, but not in LDL cholesterol levels or diabetes control.
A new $2.8 million grant will support a preclinical efficacy study of MW150, a potential treatment for dementia. The drug targets dysregulated brain inflammation driven by p38-MAPK, which is also linked to vascular cognitive impairment and dementia.
The economic cost of natural disasters has increased disproportionately for major events like hurricanes and tornadoes, while lesser events have seen less growth. Climate change is driving these increases, with the top 1% of damages estimated to rise by $26 million annually.
A new study finds that heat wave sizes could increase substantially by mid-century, with potential impacts on public health and energy demand. The research suggests that considering the spatial size of heat waves is crucial for informing management decisions and planning for the future.
A long-term cohort study of over 36,000 Japanese men found that consuming mushrooms on a regular basis reduces the risk of prostate cancer. Participants who ate mushrooms three or more times per week had a 17% lower risk compared to those who ate less frequently.
Three UC Davis studies examine strategies to reduce firearm-related injury and death, while a fourth study identifies five distinct types of firearm owners. Background checks are found to reduce violence among those prevented from owning firearms, but flawed policies contribute to ineffective results.
Between 2014 and 2017, China's annual power plant emissions of sulphur dioxide, nitrogen oxide and particulate matter dropped by 65%, 60% and 72% respectively. This significant reduction demonstrates the technical and economic feasibility of controlling emissions from power plants to reach ultra-low levels.
Researchers at Tufts University have developed silk materials that can form highly detailed patterns in a matter of seconds, which can be erased and reformed using vapor, enabling reversible printing and thermal regulation. The technology has potential applications in optical electronic devices, biomedical materials, and smart textiles.
Research from Georgia Institute of Technology found that consumer-grade 3D printers emit particles that can negatively impact indoor air quality and respiratory health. The study suggests measures such as better ventilation, lower nozzle temperatures, and using low-emission filaments to minimize harm.
A new study reveals a sharp rise in US firearm deaths across most states and demographics between 1999-2017. The majority of states saw firearm mortality rates increase by more than 20%, while Hispanic whites were the only racial/ethnic group to see reductions.
An interdisciplinary group of researchers will investigate antimicrobial use and resistance in Argentinian livestock farms, aiming to develop a complete picture of AMR levels and their environmental impact. The project will inform policy making and potential interventions to reduce antimicrobial use and AMR.
A new predictive model can forecast a terror organization's future violence after just 10 attacks, allowing security forces to identify and neutralize the most destructive groups. The model, developed by Northwestern University researchers, uses data from publicly available sources like the Global Terror Database.
University of Oregon researchers have identified a design principle that points to making catalytic particles really small for increased efficiency. Smaller nanoparticles collect excited positive charges, preventing recombination and generating higher voltages.
A study involving 20 participants found that manipulating graphemes affects brain activity in a specific visual region. This suggests the brain region processes written words for sound translation rather than meaning access, potentially explaining variations in reading abilities.
Researchers from SUTD discovered a new theory that describes thermionic emission in graphene, improving the accuracy of models used to design devices. The new approach overcomes limitations of existing Dirac cone approximation, enabling universal descriptions of graphene-based devices across different temperatures and energy regimes.
According to a study published in Global Change Biology, the breeding season of some Arctic seabirds is shifting earlier due to global warming. The study found that surface-feeding seabirds in the north Pacific Ocean are moving their breeding season about ten days before the rest of species over the last thirty-five years.