A 3D printed fluorescence imaging box called PFIbox allows researchers to analyze massive amounts of data from bacteria samples, helping them discover new antibiotics. The open-source tool costs $200 and can be improved upon by others.
Scientists developed an updated international approach to identifying a healthy diet by analyzing data from large global studies involving over 240,000 people from more than 50 countries. The new guidelines suggest higher amounts of fruit, vegetables, nuts, and fish in the diet to reduce cardiovascular disease risk.
Patients with cardiovascular disease who experience major internal bleeding are more likely to be diagnosed with cancer, particularly gastrointestinal and genitourinary tract cancers. The study, which involved over 27,000 patients in 33 countries, suggests that bleeding may serve as an early warning sign for occult cancers.
A large international study found that individuals consuming average amounts of sodium (3-5g/day) do not face increased health risks. However, those exceeding five grams a day may experience cardiovascular events, and improving dietary quality with potassium-rich foods can mitigate this risk.
A recent study found that just two weeks of inactivity can hasten the onset of Type 2 diabetes and elevate blood sugar levels among pre-diabetic patients. The study's findings suggest that seniors who experience periods of physical inactivity are more likely to suffer harmful consequences to their overall health.
Researchers at McMaster University have discovered a unique type of signaling from damaged DNA that triggers huntingtin activity in DNA repair. This signaling is defective in Huntington's disease and can be restored with a molecule called N6-furfuryladenine, reversing symptoms and restoring mutant huntingtin protein levels to normal.
Researchers Corey Howard, Ralph Pudritz and William Harris use supercomputer simulations to re-create star cluster formation. The study shows that massive star clusters are the natural outcome of large gas collections, and can be used to reverse-engineer galaxy conditions.
A recent study published in Biology of Sex Differences found no significant association between cannabis use and suicidal behavior in people with psychiatric disorders. However, the study did suggest that heavy cannabis use may increase risk of suicidal behavior in men.
Dr. Alfonso Iorio has been appointed the inaugural holder of the Bayer Chair for Clinical Epidemiology Research and Bleeding Disorders at McMaster University. He will focus primarily on inherited blood disorders such as hemophilia A, hemophilia B, and von Willebrand disease to optimize treatment strategies.
Researchers found a new treatment, dupilumab, effective in treating severe asthma by blocking key drivers of inflammation. The study showed improved asthma symptoms, lung function, and reduced need for corticosteroids.
Researchers have found a patient-centric treatment that works for people with mild asthma, using an as-needed combined-drug inhaler. The study, led by Paul O'Byrne, showed the inhaler was superior to conventional treatment strategies in reducing asthma attacks and improving symptom control.
A study published in The Lancet found that excessive oxygen therapy increases mortality among critically ill patients. Data from over 16,000 adult patients with various acute conditions revealed a 21% higher risk of in-hospital death with liberal oxygen administration.
A new study from McMaster and York universities found structural and functional changes in the power generation parts of the cell, or mitochondria, of those with diabetes. These changes could result in reduced metabolism, greater difficulty controlling blood glucose and accelerated disability development.
Researchers at McMaster University have developed a transparent test patch that can signal contamination as it happens, using harmless molecules. The patch can be incorporated into food packaging and monitor contents for harmful pathogens like E. coli and Salmonella, providing a definitive indication of safety before consumption.
A randomized controlled trial found that patients with myocardial injury after non-cardiac surgery experienced a 28% lower risk of major vascular complications when treated with dabigatran. The study showed significant benefits in reducing the risk of death, heart attack, and stroke.
A study by McMaster University researchers has pinpointed a gene responsible for neurodevelopmental disorders, including autism. The study found that alterations of the thousand and one amino-acid kinase 2 (TAOK2) gene play a direct role in these disorders.
A new study from McMaster University suggests that smartphones and data centers will be the most damaging information and communications technologies to the environment by 2040. The research highlights the significant emissions impact of the ICT industry, driven primarily by production and operation.
A study from McMaster University found that Ontario jails have high rates of opioid overdose deaths compared to the general public. Researchers recommend increased collaboration between healthcare and correctional systems to provide better treatment options for those in custody.
McMaster University engineers have developed a printed paper-based device that speeds up and improves the accuracy of drug screening. The technology uses a printable hydrogel to filter out inaccurate results, reducing the time and cost associated with drug discovery.
A new analysis of dozens of studies confirms protein supplements boost muscle mass and strength in weightlifters. However, their effectiveness decreases with age, highlighting the need for greater supplementation as people get older.
Bigger trees in peat bogs indicate greater fire risk, as they shade out protective sphagnum moss and pull moisture from the ground. Researchers found that even small trees can pose a threat, with those just 5 metres tall posing the greatest danger.
A study by McMaster University researchers found that people born during previous pandemics were at higher risk of dying during subsequent outbreaks. The analysis suggests exposure to pandemic influenza early in life may be a risk factor for mortality.
Researchers found that fish living downstream from sewage treatment plants must work at least 30% harder just to survive due to the presence of pharmaceuticals and other contaminants. This increased metabolic rate reduces their energy for vital functions such as movement, evading predators, and reproduction.
Researchers sequenced ancient HBV genome from 16th-century mummified child, confirming pathogen's long history in humans. The findings suggest the evolution of this virus is complex and has changed little over 450 years.
Researchers at McMaster University have identified nine genes that contribute to weight gain in individuals with a high body mass index. These genes can amplify weight gain by up to four times, making them a significant factor in the development of extreme forms of obesity.
A recent study published in The Lancet found that the use of pencil-point atraumatic needles during lumbar punctures significantly reduces the occurrence of headaches and other complications. The research team analyzed data from over 30,000 patients across 29 countries, showing a more than 50% reduction in headaches and readmissions.
Babies exposed to antibiotics for GBS developmentally delayed gut bacteria, which recovered by 12 weeks of age. Long-term effects on infant health are unclear.
Monocytes play a pivotal role in osteoarthritis pain and progression. A study found that activated monocytes increase inflammation and body mass index, leading to worsened knee osteoarthritis. Researchers aim to explore the impact of exercise on older adults with OA.
Researchers found that six weeks of intense exercise improved high-interference memory, a type of memory that allows us to distinguish between similar objects. Participants who experienced greater fitness gains also showed increased brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), supporting the growth and function of brain cells.
A study finds that children with eczema or atopic dermatitis and sensitization to an allergen at age 1 are significantly more likely to develop asthma and a food allergy by age three. The CHILD Study also found that early introduction of common allergenic foods may reduce the risk of allergic sensitization and food allergy.
A study by McMaster University neuroscientists found that even mild trauma from contact sports can disrupt the production of new neurons in the hippocampus, a region critical to memory. Temporary memory losses were observed in concussed athletes, while scores improved after a reprieve from their sport.
A team of McMaster University graduates has developed a skin cancer detection device called The sKan, which creates a thermal map on the region of interest on the skin. The device is made up of 16 temperature-sensitive components and assists physicians in detecting melanoma by providing quantitative information about skin spots.
Researchers have discovered a method to identify Vitamin D deficiency through dental X-ray images. The study found that the shape of the pulp horn in a tooth can indicate prior deficiency, allowing for early detection and prevention of related bone health issues.
Women involved in high-risk sex behaviors have more diverse vaginal bacterial microbiota, a lower abundance of protective Lactobacillus bacteria, and are at higher risk for STIs and HIV-1 acquisition. The study suggests that low diversity vaginal microbiota is associated with less risk of vaginal infections.
Researchers at McMaster University developed a new drug screening technique to quickly identify fentanyl and other synthetic drugs. This method, outlined in Analytical Chemistry, addresses the public health emergency caused by opioid addiction and overdose deaths.
Researchers at McMaster University have discovered that bolstering fat cells in the bone marrow can suppress leukemia cells while also regenerating healthy red blood cells. This innovative approach presents a new potential therapeutic strategy for treating acute myeloid leukemia, which often leads to anemia and infection.
A new study suggests that decreased bullying exposure and family problems during childhood and adolescence could help reduce adult mental illness in extremely low birth weight preemies. Early mental health support for these individuals and their parents may also be beneficial.
Scientists suggest that life began on Earth when meteorites splashed down and leached essential elements into warm little ponds. The 'warm little ponds' concept has been proven plausible through extensive research and calculations.
A large international study found that any physical activity can prevent heart disease and death, with 38% of participants meeting the 150 minutes a week guideline through activities like commuting or household chores. The study showed significant benefits from incorporating physical activity into daily life, regardless of intensity.
Researchers at McMaster University have found that antidepressants can increase the risk of death by 33% due to their impact on multiple organs, including the heart and kidneys. This finding challenges the common assumption that antidepressants are safe for most people.
A new $2.7 million national study is evaluating ways to improve care planning conversations for frail elderly Canadians, with a focus on person-centred care based on their goals and values.
A diet with moderate intake of fat and fruits/vegetables, avoiding high carbohydrates, is associated with lower risk of death. The lowest risk was seen in those consuming three to four servings of fruits, vegetables, and legumes daily.
A major international study found that combining two drugs, rivaroxaban and aspirin, is superior to aspirin alone in preventing further heart complications in people with vascular disease. The combination reduced strokes, heart attacks, and cardiovascular death by practically 25% compared to either drug alone.
A new study from McMaster University highlights the importance of public health messaging to South Asian women who are considering pregnancy. The research found that a healthy diet and pre-pregnancy weight can significantly decrease gestational diabetes risk, with approximately one-third of cases preventable.
Researchers at McMaster University have discovered two new genes, SPOCK1 and TWIST2, that regulate brain metastases in lung cancer patients. These genes are present in the primary lung cancer of all patients with brain metastases but not in those without them.
Researchers have identified two new biological markers of cystic fibrosis, which could lead to improved prognosis and better therapies for patients. The biomarkers were discovered through a specialized technique developed at McMaster University, where scientists collected and analyzed sweat samples from infants in CF clinics.
A new supplement combining whey protein, creatine, vitamin D, calcium, and fish oil has been found to greatly improve physical strength in senior citizens. The study, published in PLOS ONE, showed significant gains in lean body mass and overall strength, especially when combined with exercise.
The study found that the red vizcacha rat's genome grew quickly due to the expansion of highly repetitive elements, rather than whole genome duplication. This mechanism is also thought to contribute to 'genomic baggage' in humans, influencing disease susceptibility.
The project aims to create a system that can effectively monitor data centers and analyze findings with minimal human intervention. Led by McMaster Engineering professors, the team will develop tools to analyze performance in real-time, helping companies make decisions to reduce energy usage and predict system faults and failures.
A team of researchers at McMaster University has identified a unique feature of cancer stem cells that can be exploited to kill the deadly cells. By understanding this feature, they discovered an important protein called Sam68, which allows existing drugs to work on cancer cells, causing them to die.