Researchers developed a cell-based test that can classify chemicals as sensitizing or non-sensitizing, predicting the strength of allergic responses. This alternative to animal testing aims to reduce suffering from skin conditions such as eczema.
Researchers developed alternative smear collection methods that are more convenient for patients, yet maintain the same level of accuracy for diagnosis. The findings suggest that a single patient visit could be sufficient to diagnose pulmonary tuberculosis, improving access to treatment, particularly in poor countries.
A recent study published in Psychosomatic Medicine found that individuals with high anxiety sensitivity exhibited reduced anxiety reactivity when engaging in high levels of physical activity. Regular exercise was shown to be an effective alternative or complementary strategy to traditional treatments for depression and anxiety problems.
Researchers at The Wistar Institute discovered how cells create alternate versions of mRNA transcripts by altering how they read DNA. This leads to alternative forms of proteins, which can be used in different developmental stages or cell types.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins have identified two genes, ATRX and DAXX, that contribute to the lengthening of telomeres in cancer cells. The study found a correlation between mutations in these genes and alternative lengthening of telomeres in various types of tumors.
Researchers have discovered a surprising molecular pathway in skin cells that produces nitric oxide, a versatile signaling molecule involved in wound-healing and temperature-sensation. This alternative process could lead to better drugs for treating wounds.
A Mayo Clinic research team has demonstrated a promising alternative strategy for treating type 2 diabetes by blocking the breakdown of insulin. In mouse studies, these mice showed increased insulin levels, weight loss, and improved blood sugar control.
Researchers have identified a small noncoding RNA that promotes the production of an alternative splice variant of KCNIP4, leading to neurodegeneration and potential disruption in beta-amyloid processing. Elevated levels of this RNA were found in brain cells from Alzheimer's disease patients.
Researchers have challenged the existence of a supersolid in helium-4, proposing an alternative explanation for its behavior. The alternative theory suggests that the observed effects can be attributed to the 'freezing out' of imperfections within the lattice, rather than a phase change to a supersolid.
Researchers found that leukotriene receptor antagonists (LTRAs) can manage chronic asthma equally successfully as steroid inhalers when used in addition to steroid inhalers. This could provide an alternative for patients who struggle with inhaler use due to side effects or preference
Scientists have engineered a cheap and abundant alternative to platinum-based catalysts, enabling the production of hydrogen fuel from sunlight and water. This discovery is crucial for creating a sustainable green energy economy.
A US Department of Agriculture study suggests that dietary yeast extract has good potential as a non-antibiotic alternative for decreasing pathogens in organic turkey production. The researchers are looking for a balance between enhancing immune response and maintaining growth.
A new study by the University of Cincinnati reveals that urban adolescents with asthma who use integrative medicine like prayer or relaxation experience improved mental and physical health outcomes. The research found that spiritual struggles contribute uniquely to a patient's quality of life, beyond demographic variables.
A new study published in Biotechnology Journal reveals a cheaper and more efficient method for treating dyed denim, eliminating the need for hazardous sandblasting techniques. The surface activation technique reduces fabric strength decay, shortens wash-down processes, and minimizes chemical usage.
Storing fruits and vegetables in ozone-enriched environments significantly reduces microbial spoilage, with up to 95% disease prevention after 8 days. Ozone treatment is a viable alternative to pesticides, leaving no residues on foods.
A new study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association found that video game treatment can significantly improve upper-arm motor function in stroke survivors. Virtual reality games showed promise as a promising and potentially useful alternative to traditional physiotherapy.
The University of Warwick team has created a rapid method for preparing robust, ultra-thin gold films on glass, offering a viable alternative to ITO-coated glass. The resulting electrodes are chemically well-defined and can be scaled up for large area applications.
CTC utilization has tripled in recent years, increasing access to colorectal cancer screening, and potentially saving lives through early detection of disease. The study suggests an opportunity for more people to be screened due to CTC's alternative to conventional optical colonoscopy.
Researchers found that carotid artery stenting (CAS) with embolic protection is a cost-effective alternative to endarterectomy (END), offering reduced post-procedure hospital stay costs. The study results showed lower rates of death, heart attack, major stroke, and repeat carotid revascularization for CAS compared to END.
A recent study found that hospital use of computed tomographic colonography (CTC), also known as virtual colonoscopy, is increasing. In 2008, 17% of hospitals offered CTC, up from 13% in 2005, with many citing a desire to provide alternative screening options for frail patients and those with failed optical colonoscopy.
A group of public health experts suggest an alternative way forward for reforming public health in England, proposing the creation of an independent authority within the NHS. This would allow for more control over budgets and a unified workforce, reducing political interference and promoting staff unity and morale.
A review of 19 studies on complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) use in maternity care found diverse attitudes among healthcare professionals. While many have a positive view of CAM, there is a need for formal evidence-based education and guidance on its use.
Researchers at University of Michigan and University of California, Irvine discover DNA's building blocks 'rock and roll,' forming alternative structures with Hoogsteen base pairs. These fleeting states contain new layers of information stored in the genetic code, shedding light on critical interactions between DNA and proteins.
A new CPR technique has been shown to increase long-term survival after cardiac arrest, with a 53% improvement in survival rates compared to standard CPR. The active compression-decompression cardio-pulmonary resuscitation (CPR) method provides nearly three times more blood flow to the heart and brain.
VIB-K.U. Leuven scientists have decoded a potential new anti-cancer mechanism by normalizing abnormal tumor blood vessels through HRG, which prevents metastasis and enhances chemotherapy efficiency. This mechanism offers alternative possibilities for cancer treatment.
Alternative grass species such as little bluestem, purple lovegrass, and tall fescue have been identified for anchoring roadside slopes. These deep-rooted species can stabilize the soil, while warmer-season grasses like little bluestem and purple lovegrass prevent surface erosion and provide green roadsides.
Researchers at Eindhoven University of Technology have developed an affordable alternative to the expensive X-FEL, which can perform similar molecular process research on a tabletop. The 'poor man's X-FEL' uses electrons instead of X-rays and requires less energy, making it a more feasible option for researchers.
A study published in Neurology found that nearly 40% of brain tumor patients use alternative therapies, including homeopathic remedies and vitamin supplements. Younger people, women, and those with more education were more likely to use these treatments, which they often sought to add benefits to conventional care.
A new Cochrane Systematic Review finds sublingual immunotherapy significantly reduces symptoms of allergic rhinitis and medication requirements. The treatment has very few serious adverse effects and is effective in children, offering a convenient alternative to injection immunotherapy.
A recent study from Université de Montréal found that using alternative therapies for asthma can result in a two-fold higher rate of poor asthma control in children. The study assessed over 2000 families with children and found that use of alternative therapy was associated with reduced effectiveness of conventional asthma treatment.
Researchers have successfully integrated ultra-thin layers of indium arsenide onto a silicon substrate to create nanoscale transistors with excellent electronic properties. The devices exhibited superior performance in terms of current density and transconductance compared to silicon transistors.
A study presented at the American Heart Association's Scientific Sessions 2010 found that a minimally invasive procedure is a safe alternative to traditional surgery for treating congenital heart defects. The procedure, known as transcatheter closure, was associated with a 62% reduced risk of neurological events.
A Stanford University School of Medicine study suggests an alternative to standard nasal sprays that use preservatives, which can cause side effects. The new method maintains sterility in the applicator bottle without chemical preservatives.
Yoga has a positive effect on mood and anxiety due to increased GABA levels, according to a study. Higher GABA activity is associated with improved mood and decreased anxiety, suggesting a new link between yoga and its benefits.
A new University of California, Davis study suggests that the global oil supply will run dry within 90 years, far before replacement technologies are ready. The forecast is based on market capitalizations and dividend payments from publicly owned oil and alternative energy companies.
The scarcity of new energy minerals will lead to a significant increase in trade tensions between nations. China's growing reliance on wind power to meet its renewable energy targets is exacerbating the issue, as the country needs rare earth elements like neodymium and selenium for high-strength magnets.
The University of Houston is developing new technologies for the alternative energy industry with a $1.2 million grant from the Office of Naval Research. Researchers will focus on improving thin-film solar cell efficiency and developing nanosensors for wind turbine blades to monitor structural health.
A randomized trial found that adding chemotherapy to radiation therapy for muscle invasive bladder cancer reduces the long-term risk of recurrence by 13 percentage points. The treatment also preserves bladder function, making it a viable alternative to radical surgery for patients with this form of the disease.
Providing computed tomography colonography as an alternative to conventional colonoscopy could improve colorectal cancer screening rates. The study found that patients preferred virtual colonoscopy due to its convenience and perceived safety.
USDA researchers are developing new fish feeds with lower levels of fishmeal and fish oil, replacing traditional sources with concentrated plant proteins. The alternative diets show promise in supporting the growing demand for fish as a lean protein source, while promoting sustainability in aquaculture production.
Researchers Paula Gardiner and Robert Saper at Boston Medical Center have been awarded NIH grants to investigate the effectiveness of integrative medicine in treating chronic lower back pain in low-income minorities. Their studies will expand knowledge on the use of herbal supplements and yoga as treatments for this common condition.
The Magnetic Energy Recovery Switch (MERS) harnesses and recycles residual magnetic power to control electrical flow, significantly reducing lighting energy consumption by 39 percent. The technology has the potential to reduce the Navy's total energy consumption from alternative sources by 40% by 2020.
Researchers developed a new interventional technique using stent-grafts to control massive bleeding from the hepatic artery after pancreaticoduodenectomy, demonstrating lower mortality rates than conventional surgical intervention. The procedure is considered a valuable alternative for patients with non-portal vein anatomy.
A study found that one in ten US adolescents uses sunless tanning products, which may reduce sunbathing and sunburns among adult women. Another study showed that promoting sunless tanning as an alternative to regular tanning can lead to reduced UV radiation exposure and improved sun safety behaviors.
A systematic review of available evidence finds that pharmaceutical and alternative medicines offer limited relief from morning sickness in pregnancy. Despite a lack of conclusive results, some studies suggest potential benefits from ginger, vitamin B6, and acustimulation.
Researchers have discovered a new method to harness electricity from the air, using a process called hygroelectricity. This technology could provide an alternative energy source for homes and businesses, similar to solar cells, and prevent lightning strikes by draining electricity out of the air.
Walter Kohn predicts a new era in human history where solar and wind power dominate global energy, driven by growing alternative energy production and declining oil and gas reserves. International cooperation is crucial to addressing the challenges of a rapidly changing energy landscape.
Researchers identified a novel protein called SNARK, which plays a key role in regulating glucose transport during muscle contraction and exercise. The study shows that SNARK mediates contraction-stimulated glucose transport, providing an alternative pathway for increasing glucose uptake in individuals with insulin resistance.
Novo Nordisk's decision to withdraw Mixtard 30 insulin could add £9 million to the NHS drugs bill in England, affecting 90,000 patients with type 1 and 2 diabetes. Alternative biphasic insulins are more expensive and may cause disruption to patient care.
A recent study found that transforaminal steroid injection is a viable alternative to surgery for lumbar radicular pain due to disc herniation, with 54% of patients achieving pain relief after 1 month. The treatment was shown to be more effective than other methods, including local anesthesia and saline injections.
Research reveals soy phytoestrogens reduce weight gain and increase energy expenditure in post-menopausal rats, highlighting potential natural treatment for obesity. Further human studies are needed to confirm the long-term effects of a soy-rich diet on food intake.
James C. Liao, UCLA professor, receives Presidential Green Chemistry Challenge Award for his groundbreaking work on recycling carbon dioxide into products used in alternative transportation fuels or chemical feedstock. His technology addresses the problems hampering the development of bio-based chemicals and fuels.
A new study reveals that oral micronized progesterone relieves hot flashes and night sweats in postmenopausal women, with a 56% improvement rate. The natural hormone form offers an effective alternative to estrogen for those who cannot or prefer not to use it.
Researchers have identified the complement receptor 1 (CR1) as an alternative protein used by the malaria parasite to invade red blood cells. This finding has significant implications for the development of a vaccine against malaria, and may help prevent the proliferation of parasites that rely on this pathway.
Researchers at the University of Sheffield created a unique map showing General Election results based on population data. The map provides an alternative perspective by reflecting where people live in the country, enabling a better understanding of voting preferences and population density.
A new Cochrane Systematic Review suggests phakic intraocular lenses (IOLs) may be a safer alternative to excimer laser surgery for moderate to high levels of short-sightedness. Patients who underwent IOL treatment reported better spectacle-corrected vision and contrast sensitivity, as well as higher patient satisfaction.
Conventional MRI may detect a large percentage of hip labral tears, suggesting it as an acceptable alternative to MR arthrography. However, further study is needed to confirm its effectiveness in evaluating nonspecific hip pain.
New research presents findings on non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), showing it significantly affects transplant outcomes and highlighting alternative diagnostic methods. A scoring system, known as the NAFLD fibrosis score, also predicts poor outcomes in patients with NAFLD.
A U-M study reveals that socio-economic factors, particularly race and age, significantly influence the use of alternative therapies like acupuncture and biofeedback in chronic pain patients. As people age, they are more likely to seek alternative therapies to manage chronic pain.
Researchers have uncovered a new pathway of microRNA generation, revealing why Argonaute2 proteins are necessary in mammals. This alternative route bypasses the Dicer enzyme, allowing Ago2 to directly mature and regulate genes.