A Brown University research team has identified primary signals that initiate liver formation in embryonic cells. Understanding these signals could lead to new treatments for diseases such as viral hepatitis and cancer by enabling tissue regeneration and reprogramming of diseased cells.
A new study found that women exercising vigorously while quitting smoking were twice as likely to succeed. This is attributed to physical exertion limiting weight gain and stress, making it easier for smokers to quit.
A recent study by Brown University researchers has found a link between agrin protein and Alzheimer's disease plaques. The protein, involved in nervous system development, may play a role in the disease's progression.
A combination of nefazodone and psychotherapy is more effective than either medication or therapy alone in treating chronic depression, with an 85% response rate. The study also found significant improvement in insomnia and early symptom reduction.
Researchers discovered three-dimensional record of locomotor behavior in Triassic-period dinosaurs preserved in fossil footprints. The tracks showed that both theropod dinosaurs and birds moved their feet in a similar way, with the toes collapsing together below the surface as the entire foot emerged.
A new study by Brown University researchers found that teenagers with body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) experience significant impairment in social functioning, with 94% reporting difficulties. The disorder often begins before age 18, particularly at age 13, and can be treated effectively with antidepressants.
A recent study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that doctors missed diagnosing abusive head trauma in young children up to 31.2% of the time. The study highlighted the importance of considering non-specific signs of abuse and performing mindful exams, particularly if a child's face is bruised.
A study at Brown University found that 'bad' brain experiences can lead to stronger connections and improved brain function during infancy. Researchers tested the effect of eyelid closure versus blocking electrical activity in one eye on neural connections, finding that eyelid closure caused more severe weakening.
Researchers found that an experimental antibiotic, moxifloxacin, is effective against a range of drug-resistant bacterial strains, including those resistant to penicillin and erythromycin. The findings suggest it could be a potential treatment for serious and deadly illnesses caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae bacteria.
A recent study found a link between an asteroid/comet impact and the disappearance of 35 mammal species and a flightless bird 3.3 million years ago in southeastern Argentina. The research suggests that the impact may have triggered a climate change, leading to regional extinctions.
A new study shows sertraline safely prevents depression recurrence in severe chronic sufferers. The drug extends remission time and protects against recurrence for patients with disabling psychological and social problems.
A study by Brown University researchers found that prenatal cocaine exposure can lead to lower IQ scores and language performance in children. The analysis of over 800 school-age children revealed a significant impact on intelligence, with an average IQ score reduction of 3.26 points.
Researchers at Brown University have discovered that bats can resolve sonar images with a higher quality and wider variety of orientation tasks than previously thought. Bats can process overlapping echo delays as little as two microseconds apart, resolving objects as close together as three-tenths of a millimeter.
A study found that primary care physicians rely heavily on informal consultations with subspecialists to meet patient needs, but subspecialists are concerned about the lack of information exchanged. This may indicate a lack of trust in primary care physicians' abilities to take histories and examine patients.
Io's volcanic hot spots reach surface temperatures of over 2,200 degrees Fahrenheit, more than double previous measurements. The extreme temperatures suggest a unique process of differentiation and heavy element composition, shedding light on the moon's geological history.
A study of 1,148 women infected with HIV or at high risk found that those with regular doctors had lower recidivism rates. Continuous medical care can also provide emotional support and substance abuse help, changing lives for many.
Researchers at Brown University found two independent cardiovascular disease risk factors in women taking HIV treatment cocktails: disfiguring extra fat around the torso and serum lipid levels. The study also documented another side effect: body fat changes, including prominent bellies and buffalo hump fat pads.
Studies reveal that patients are more likely to discontinue protease inhibitors due to side effects and complexity of dosing regimen. Additionally, certain groups such as women, minorities, and those with less education are underrepresented in receiving potent drug cocktails containing protease inhibitors.
A new vaginal microbicide, BufferGel, has shown promising results in a Phase I study, with 27 women reporting no serious side effects. The gel works by reducing the vaginal pH level, making it an effective barrier to HIV transmission.
The updated guidelines advocate for early, potent combination antiretroviral therapies to prevent AIDS in individuals infected with HIV. The new recommendations suggest that simpler drug regimens may offer greater compliance and convenience.
A study of Rhode Island's needle exchange program found that sharers reuse needles an average of 24 times, contributing to high HIV infection rates; providing clean needles is seen as the single most effective way to prevent its spread.
A new study found that daily pain among elderly nursing home residents with cancer is widespread and often untreated, especially among older and minority patients. The study highlights inadequate medical treatment and a need for improving pain management in these individuals.
Seismologists capture detailed images of deep underground processes at mid-ocean ridges, revealing melting rock flows up in a broad zone rather than a narrow plume. This new data represents a major step forward in understanding Earth's crust formation and volcanic activity.
A Brown University study found that a personalized approach can increase breast cancer screening rates among women. Women who received tailored information were 10% more likely to get a repeat mammogram than those who received generic advice or no intervention.
Recent data from NASA's Galileo spacecraft suggests that Jupiter's moon Europa may have a slushy ocean beneath its icy surface, with evidence including shallow impact craters and gaps in the ice. The findings support the idea that warmth from tidal forces could be keeping parts of the ocean liquid.
A study of 203 HIV-positive men and women found that nearly two-thirds are sexually active without disclosing their HIV status, resulting in higher rates of unprotected sex and potential transmission. Despite the risks, individuals may avoid disclosure due to fear of rejection or loss of benefits.
A recent study published in The Journal of Nervous and Mental Disease found that men are equally affected by body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) as women, with differences mainly in the body part of concern and coping mechanisms.
Researchers found that a brief genetic response to heat stress can increase fruit fly lifespan at normal temperatures. The study reveals hsp70's role in moderating stress and potentially regulating aging.
Scientists described the three-dimensional structure and inner workings of a terpene synthase, a type of protein that synthesizes complex compounds including cholesterol. The findings provide groundwork for understanding how to regulate cholesterol creation in the body.
A federally mandated regulation led to a significant reduction in hospitalization rates among nursing home residents, with no increase in death rate. The study found that targeted hospital use resulted in better care and cost savings.
A study of 32 obese women found that shedding excess weight led to improved body image and increased sexual activity. However, the improvement was not statistically significant and the level of sexual activity remained below national averages.
Brown University scientists have successfully used a magnetic field to levitate frog embryos, reducing forces and stresses by a factor of 10. This technique, known as magnetic field gradient levitation, could enable researchers to study living organisms in simulated low-gravity environments at a fraction of the cost of space missions.
Brown University researchers have developed a novel oral drug delivery system using erodible plastic microspheres that can improve the efficacy of drugs like insulin. The microspheres, engineered with bioadhesive polymers, increase absorption rates and enhance therapeutic effects.
Researchers at Brown University have developed a drug and radiation regimen that demonstrates substantial activity in reducing locally advanced and inoperable tumors in the pancreas and stomach.
Researchers have developed a genetic test that can identify children with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and tic disorders associated with strep throat infections. The blood test detects the D8/17 genetic marker in 85% of children with strep-associated OCD and tics, and 89% of those with Sydenham's chorea.
A new study reveals that hospital noise significantly disrupts the sleep of elderly patients in critical care units. The research found a strong correlation between peak sound levels and sleep arousals, with many patients spending hours awake at night.
A prison-release program for HIV-positive women successfully links clients with medical care and substance-abuse treatment on release from prison. The program resulted in a more than 50-percent decrease in the recidivism rate, with women experiencing reduced rates of return to prison within six months and one year.
A new study reveals that premature infants born to women with mild high blood pressure may have a lower incidence of respiratory distress syndrome compared to those born to mothers with severe hypertension. Infants born to mothers with mild hypertension tend to mature faster, reducing the risk of chronic lung problems.
Researchers found a 5% increase in sun-protective behaviors among beachgoers who received personalized sun-protection strategies, based on their stage of behavioral change. The study suggests that beaches are an effective site for reaching high-risk sunbathers and promoting behavior change.
A new study suggests the Yucatan asteroid impact was particularly deadly to North America due to its oblique angle, spreading energy northwest. The severe extinction intensity was highest downrange of the impact in North America.
A Brown University study reveals that many songbirds migrating south each autumn switch from insects to a berry-rich diet to store fat for the long haul. The study found that these 'pit stops,' crucial for tiny songbirds traveling thousands of miles, are under intense development and ecological pressure.
Newborns exposed to crack cocaine in the womb display excitability, lethargy, stress, and delayed motor skills, but may not require special care. Cocaine exposure may also impact parenting styles and lead to negative outcomes for babies.