Patients taking benzodiazepines for psychiatric conditions face increased risk of dementia and death due to the class of drugs' potential negative effects. Alternative therapies like anti-depressants are recommended for safer and more effective treatment.
Researchers from the University of Edinburgh built complex computer models to understand why cells developed pathways to convert sugar into energy. The study suggests that these metabolic systems evolved to produce more energy compared to alternative pathways.
Researchers evaluated two alternative strategies to prevent malaria in pregnancy, finding that dihydroartemisinin-piperaquine reduced clinical malaria by 84% and risk of anaemia by 22%. The new drug was also associated with lower risks of stillbirths and infant mortality.
Researchers at Scripps Florida Institute have been awarded $6 million to develop an innovative HIV/AIDS vaccine that has shown promise in animal models. The approach works by blocking key sites on the virus's surface, preventing it from attaching and invading human immune cells.
SABEL Sense technology offers an alternative to GPS for tracking running speeds and distances, presenting a viable solution for improved athlete assessment techniques. The technology has been found to be highly accurate for running speeds, with potential benefits in monitoring training and game workloads.
Researchers compared clinical outcomes between patients receiving nafcillin and cefazolin for MSSA bacteremia, finding that cefazolin had similar treatment failure rates but fewer adverse events. The study suggests that cefazolin may be a cost-effective alternative to nafcillin due to lower costs.
Teachers certified through alternative pathways exhibit stronger SAT scores and greater success on certification exams compared to traditional university-based programs. These findings suggest that adding course requirements may actually deter the most qualified individuals from pursuing teaching careers.
A new study from the University of Pennsylvania reveals that disruptions in splicing proteins cause facial and skin barrier defects in mice. The research highlights the importance of these genes in normal development, particularly in the formation of epithelial tissues.
A new project promotes agroforestry in Myanmar's uplands as a sustainable alternative to shifting cultivation, which harms livelihoods and ecosystems. The project aims to reduce the need for chemical fertilizers and pesticides while boosting yields and diversifying income sources.
Scientists have created a sustainable and safe igniting fluid from waste paper, offering a potential solution for reducing harmful emissions from charcoal grills. The new compound, gamma-valerolactone (GVL), can safely start charcoal fires and light glass lamps without producing smoke or odors.
A recent study published in the Journal of Geriatric Oncology found that 26% of senior oncology patients use complementary or alternative medicines, which can interact with cancer treatments. The study highlights the need for comprehensive screening and documentation of CAM use in older cancer patients.
A large-scale analysis of published research studies found that yoga therapy was most often used for mental health, cardiovascular disease, and respiratory disease. The study, published in The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, analyzed 28,000 study participants from 29 countries over 46 years.
The FDA has approved two new endoscopic bariatric therapies for treating obesity, providing patients with a minimally invasive alternative to surgery. Endoscopic bariatric therapies offer a viable option for patients who have been unsuccessful at weight loss with diet and exercise.
Researchers found that electrochemical disinfection creates numerous 'disinfection by-products', which can have unknown environmental impacts. Alternative methods like filtration or adsorption are recommended to prevent the transfer of harmful organisms.
The US Department of Energy's Argonne National Laboratory has found that butanol can be used as a safe and effective alternative fuel for recreational boats. This new blend, which includes 16% butanol, was demonstrated to outperform ethanol at 10% in terms of performance, efficiency, and emissions.
Researchers at Mass Eye and Ear discovered that the alternative complement pathway exacerbates photoreceptor cell death after injury, but blocking it can protect photoreceptors. Inhibition of this pathway offers a new therapeutic target to prevent initial photoreceptor loss.
A study of over 6,000 Kaiser Permanente members found that 58% used chiropractic care or acupuncture for chronic pain, yet many didn't discuss it with their primary care providers. The majority of patients would share this information if asked, highlighting the need for better care coordination.
A new study has found an alternative limb-lengthening technique that significantly reduces the amount of time patients spend in the external fixator, from 11 months to seven months. The technique combines an internal titanium rod with the external fixator, resulting in good-to-excellent outcomes for trauma patients.
Researchers developed an RNA dynamics model using beads and springs, achieving accurate predictions comparable to Molecular Dynamics simulations. The model's simplicity allows for near real-time processing and may be a viable alternative to expensive computer simulation methods.
Insect-based food production could alleviate childhood malnutrition and provide a sustainable alternative to traditional livestock sources. The use of insects as food requires strict regulations and sanitary conditions due to disease and pesticide risks, according to the FDA.
A systematic review of 24 studies found statistically significant improvement in patient outcomes with acupuncture compared to placebo acupuncture or no treatment. The findings support the potential for acupuncture as a treatment modality in dermatology.
A new laser sensor can continuously monitor blood glucose levels without penetrating the skin, offering a pain-free alternative to traditional methods. The technology has potential to improve the lives of millions by enabling constant monitoring and self-regulation.
University of Calgary scientists have characterized a novel gene that encodes the gateway enzyme in the formation of morphine. This discovery could lead to the development of alternative painkillers, such as codeine and oxycodone.
Research from the Institute of Food Technologists highlights algae, quinoa and pulses as promising alternatives to meat, rich in protein and low in environmental impact. These plant-based options are being increasingly adopted in food products, offering a sustainable solution for feeding the world's growing population.
Researchers at the Centre for Genomic Regulation have developed Brain Polyphony, a device that produces sounds from brain signals, allowing people with cerebral palsy to communicate their emotions. The system uses real-time analysis of brain waves to translate into code words, providing an alternative communication method.
A study by Montreal researchers found that the plasticizer DINCH's metabolite MINCH can act as a metabolic disrupter, affecting adipose tissue differentiation. The study suggests that DINCH exposure may pose a risk to human health and warrants further research.
A new study from San Francisco State University found that individuals with lower educational levels and incomes are less likely to know about alternative medicine practices like yoga, acupuncture, and natural products. This lack of knowledge is strongly associated with lower education levels and income.
A review of clinical studies suggests that plant-based terpenoids have therapeutic potential for treating various skin diseases, including actinic keratosis and hyperpigmentation. The compounds' anti-tumor, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties may help alleviate symptoms of these conditions.
Researchers at the University of Illinois investigated threonine biomass as a lower-cost alternative to fish meal for pig diets. Threonine biomass was found to contain more crude protein and have higher protein digestibility compared to fish meal, making it a promising source of protein for pigs.
A portable ultrasound device has been developed to diagnose bacterial meningitis in babies, replacing painful and time-consuming lumbar punctures. The device uses high-resolution imaging and algorithms to detect cellularity in cerebrospinal fluid, indicating infection within seconds.
Researchers found that graphene prevents damage to chemotherapy drugs and reduces potential for catheters breaking, potentially improving treatment efficacy. Graphene's biocompatibility and low toxicity make it a promising alternative coating material.
A new study found that cancer patients' attitudes and beliefs about complementary and alternative medicine are key predictors of its use. Researchers identified specific factors such as expectation of therapeutic benefits, cost concerns, and physician opinions, which varied by sex, race, and education level.
Obesity alters splicing patterns of genes TCF7L2 and INSR, leading to impaired insulin action. Weight loss reverses these changes, suggesting a targeted treatment approach for metabolic disorders. Alternative splicing regulates obesity-related gene expression, offering new diagnostic and therapeutic avenues.
A traditional Chinese medicine herbal mixture called Ren Shen Yangrong Tang (RSYRT) significantly reduced fatigue in cancer patients with moderate to severe symptoms. In a Phase I/II trial, RSYRT was found to be safe and effective in improving Qi deficiency, a key factor contributing to fatigue.
A new study published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine found that acupuncture significantly reduced pain and inflammation in pediatric patients with acute appendicitis. The treatment also showed a modest drop in white blood cell count, suggesting a biophysiological basis for its effectiveness.
Women with uterine fibroids have several treatment options, including medical and interventional therapies. Alternative treatment options include tranexamic acid, levonorgestrel-releasing IUDs, hysteroscopic myomectomy, endometrial ablation, gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonists, and more.
A new study by Imperial College London found that alternative providers of primary care in the NHS performed worse than traditional GP practices on 15 out of 17 indicators. The study highlights the need for careful evaluation of the private sector's role in delivering NHS services.
A study of antibiotic shortages from 2001 to 2013 found that 148 antibiotics were affected, with an upward trend starting in 2007. Many involved gold-standard therapies for life-threatening infections with limited alternative treatment options, raising concerns about patient care.
A new study from Finland's Aalto University reveals that alternative variations from popular artists' videos may reach an audience of millions on YouTube. Researchers found three primary types of music video content: traditional, user-appropriated, and derivative music videos.
The study developed a method enabling dialogue replacement for automated video redubbing, utilizing facial movements associated with speech sounds. The approach produced far more plausible alternative word sequences than conventional methods.
TOPOFEN, a proprietary gel formulation of ketoprofen, has demonstrated greater improvement in pain assessments and faster time to pain response compared to placebo in moderate and severe migraine sufferers. The study results suggest that TOPOFEN can be a safe and effective alternative treatment for patients suffering from acute migraine.
A traditional herb-derived remedy has been combined with two plants to create an antimalarial tea, which has been licensed and sold as a treatment for malaria in West Africa. The medication, derived from Cochlospermum planchonii, Phyllanthus amarus, and Cassia alata, was traditionally used to alleviate malarial symptoms.
Researchers at UAB have created an artificial virus that can self-assemble, surround DNA fragments, and reach the nucleus of cells without biological risk. This innovation provides a promising alternative to traditional viruses in gene therapy, enabling the efficient delivery of therapeutic DNA and drugs directly to target cells.
Researchers at Stanford University have developed a rechargeable aluminum battery that offers a safe alternative to commercial batteries. The new technology boasts ultra-fast charging times of just one minute and can withstand over 7,500 charge-discharge cycles without losing capacity.
Researchers recommend specific strawberry cultivars for challenging conditions in the US Southwest. The study evaluated 16 varieties and found that 'Wendy', 'Brunswick', and 'Honeoye' are tolerant to high-pH soil, while others like 'Allstar' and 'Chandler' are sensitive.
The European Commission developed the BIOLCA tool to evaluate alternative fuels and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. It allows users to simulate life cycles, compare environmental impacts, and boost sustainability.
A study by RAND Corporation and American Medical Association found that physician practices need help adapting to new payment models, which can improve quality and reduce costs. The report suggests that operational details of alternative payment models can either support or hinder practices' efforts to improve their processes.
Researchers used remote eye-trackers to monitor participants' gaze while thinking about complex moral questions. The results showed that participants' moral decisions were systematically biased towards the target alternative, with a 58% success rate for choosing the randomly selected option.
A recent study published in The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine found that intensive mindfulness meditation programs can significantly decrease depressive symptoms. Factors such as age, gender, and spirituality were not found to greatly impact the effectiveness of the training.
Scientists discuss alternative chemistries of life, exploring possibilities beyond Earth, at the AAAS 2015 Panel. Researchers aim to unravel complex interplay of planetary and biological evolutionary networks.
A new study by scientists from Bangladesh explores the viability of a novel structure for generating high-power microwaves, offering an alternative to traditional approaches. The proposed semi-circular slow wave structure is capable of producing high-power microwaves via ultra-high-frequency radio waves.
A recent study published in PEDIATRICS found that morphine administered for post-operative pain in children who have undergone tonsillectomy with or without adenoidectomy can cause significant respiratory problems and potentially fatal breathing disruptions. In contrast, ibuprofen was shown to be a safe and effective alternative.
A new study found that high-risk neuroblastoma cells use an efficient but erroneous DNA repair pathway, giving them a survival advantage. This alternative repair mechanism may be the target of new therapies to improve treatment options for children with neuroblastoma.
A VCU professor has received a five-year grant to extend the lifespan of lithium-ion batteries, reducing their cost and carbon footprint. He aims to develop alternative battery materials that are nontoxic and abundant, enabling the creation of more sustainable energy storage solutions.
The University of Texas at Austin's Center for Transportation Research is using advanced models to understand and visualize alternative solutions for traffic issues. A collaboration with the Texas Advanced Computing Center (TACC) has enabled faster simulations, allowing researchers to better analyze spatial data and gain clarity into t...
Researchers have discovered microexons, small gene fragments critical for neuron maturation, providing a new understanding of genome regulation. The study found that these tiny exons play a key role in developing neurons and are highly conserved across vertebrates.
A new study reveals that warm vinyl crib mattress covers release higher levels of phthalates, which can increase infant exposure four-fold. The preliminary findings suggest the need for further investigation into the potential risks posed by alternative phthalates.
A USF study found that many college students perceive hookah as a safer alternative to cigarette smoking, despite the risks associated with it. The research highlights the need for public health campaigns to address misunderstandings about hookah use and its potential hazards.
Researchers say that improved storage technologies and hybrid systems could address the variable nature of alternative energy, making them more cost-effective and efficient. Advanced energy storage and smart-grid connections are being explored to match different forms of renewable energy and provide a consistent power supply.
A special issue of Medical Care reports on the benefits of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) for US military veterans and active duty personnel. The studies suggest that CAM therapies are moderately effective in reducing symptoms of chronic pain, anxiety, PTSD, and depression.