Control Groups
Articles tagged with Control Groups
Texas A&M launches clinical trial to measure health benefits of ‘agrihood’ living
A new study by Texas A&M University is tracking the health effects of living in an agrihood community, where residents have access to a working farm and green spaces. The study aims to measure changes in physical activity, nutrition, and social connectedness among participants.
Estimated 2023-2024 COVID-19 vaccine effectiveness in adults
The study found that 2023-2024 COVID-19 vaccines provide additional protection against medically attended COVID-19 and critical illness. These results highlight the significance of receiving recommended COVID-19 vaccinations for adults 18 years or older, contributing to improved public health outcomes.
Effectiveness and safety of RSV vaccine for U.S. adults age 60 or older
The RSV protein subunit vaccine showed similar efficacy to clinical trials, with diminished immune response in immunocompromised patients. The vaccine was associated with a small increased risk of Guillain-Barré syndrome, but not immune thrombocytopenic purpura.
Who really calls the shots in crypto decision-making?
A study by Complexity Science Hub found that in 7.54% of DAOs, a single contributor controlled decisions due to concentrated governance tokens. This raises concerns about the true level of democracy in these organizations, which aim to distribute power and promote fairness and transparency.
COVID-19 vaccinations are metabolically safe
A new study from Murdoch University confirms that COVID-19 vaccinations do not cause significant metabolic changes. The research monitored 167 metabolic markers in 33 participants over 480 days post-vaccination, showing no significant impact on key health indicators.
Hyperbaric oxygen treatment provide long-term relief for radiation-induced injuries
Hyperbaric oxygen treatment has been shown to provide long-term relief for patients with late radiation-induced injuries, improving symptoms of urinary incontinence, bleeding, and severe pain. The treatment can lead to the healing of chronic injuries and allow patients to live a fully normal life.
Therapist in your pocket
A team of researchers from Kyoto University has developed a smartphone app that teaches core techniques of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) to treat subthreshold depression and anxiety. The app, RESiLIENT, was tested in the largest-ever individually randomized trial of its kind, showing promising results with no serious adverse effects.
Meta-analysis finds Transcendental Meditation reduces post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms across populations and cultures
A meta-analysis of 15 studies with over 1,200 participants found TM to be highly effective in reducing stress and PTSD symptoms in diverse populations. The study showed a large effect size of 1.01 for TM compared to control groups, with rapid reductions in symptoms observed within one month of practicing TM.
Mesenchymal stem cell-derived extracellular vesicles improve survival in mice exposed to high-dose irradiation
A new study found that mesenchymal stem cell-derived extracellular vesicles significantly enhance survival and facilitate substantial peripheral blood recovery in mice exposed to high-dose irradiation. The treatment promoted hematopoietic recovery, with increases in red blood cell, platelet, white blood cell, and hemoglobin levels.
Invasive group A streptococcal infections in 10 US states
Invasive group A Streptococcus infections increased substantially in 10 US states between 2013 and 2022. Accelerated prevention efforts are needed, especially among high-risk groups, to combat the spread of this bacterial infection.
Smartwatches may help control diabetes through exercise
A new study found that smartwatches paired with a health app can encourage people with newly diagnosed Type 2 Diabetes to start and maintain purposeful exercise, leading to improvements in blood sugar levels and systolic blood pressure. The programme also helped participants lower cholesterol and improve their quality of life.
Population monitoring of the olive fly is updated with a more efficient method
Researchers have developed a more efficient method to monitor the olive fly population, enabling growers to make informed decisions on pest control. The new system uses small double-sided yellow adhesive panels, distributed at 4-15 traps per hectare, to accurately estimate olive fly numbers and damage.
Long-term effects of a responsive parenting intervention on child weight outcomes through age 9
A responsive parenting intervention demonstrated a significant reduction in child weight outcomes from age 3 to 9 compared to a control group. The intervention's benefits were most pronounced among female participants, and its long-term effects may be sustained with a life-course approach.
Customized smartphone app shows promise in preventing further cognitive decline among older adults diagnosed with mild impairment
A randomized clinical trial found that a customized smartphone app, Silvia Program, significantly improved cognitive functioning among residents with mild cognitive impairment. The program's combination of daily goal setting, cognitive training, and AI-generated conversations showed promising results.
Injectable Therapy is 'magic' for those who can’t take HIV pills
A new study by researchers at UCSF has found that long-acting injectable treatments can be transformative for patients who struggle to take daily HIV pills, resulting in undetectable viral loads and improved health outcomes. The treatment approach could help stop the spread of HIV by keeping more patients from being infectious.
Babies respond positively to smell of foods experienced in the womb
A new study found that babies show positive responses to the smell of foods they were exposed to in the womb after birth. Newborns whose mothers had taken carrot powder capsules reacted favourably to the smell of carrot, while those whose mothers had taken kale powder capsules reacted more positively to the scent of kale.
Music makes us move even when we don’t like it, according to new Concordia research
People with musical anhedonia still derive pleasure from groovy tunes, and the urge to move appears to drive their experience of pleasure. Research found no differences in either pleasure or urge to move in anhedonics compared to controls, suggesting that the urge to move may itself generate pleasure.
Sliding into novel materials: A new frontier in material science
Researchers at Tel Aviv University have developed a method to transform graphite into novel materials with controlled atomic layers, enabling the creation of tiny electronic memory units. This process, known as 'Slidetronics,' allows for precise manipulation of material properties, opening doors to innovative applications in electronic...
A new global study aims to map the brain signatures of bipolar disorder to transform understanding of the disease
A global study will explore structural changes in the brains of people with bipolar disorder and compare them to major depression. The project aims to develop new tools for diagnosis and treatment, leveraging unprecedented sample sizes from over 3,500 individuals with BD and 9,000 healthy controls.
What's behind preterm birth? Scientists just found a big clue
UCSF researchers identify a molecular timer controlling mouse birth timing, which could lead to new tests for human preterm labor risk and interventions. DNA packaging during pregnancy plays a crucial role in regulating gene expression, with KDM6B working as a 'timer' that winds down over time.
Brain changes in Huntington’s disease decades before diagnosis will guide future prevention trials
Researchers found subtle brain changes in people with Huntington's disease 20 years before symptoms appear, offering hope for earlier interventions. The study identified early markers of neurodegeneration through advanced imaging and biomarkers.
Qigong significantly decreases chronic low back pain in US military veterans
A pilot study found that qigong significantly decreases chronic low back pain in US military veterans, improving physical function and reducing sleep disturbance. The holistic practice also showed positive effects on PTSD, depression, anxiety, and social roles, highlighting its potential as a nonpharmacological treatment option.
University of Houston study shows effectiveness of method to stem nearsightedness
A University of Houston study found that wearing multifocal contact lenses for myopia control has a lasting effect, slowing eye growth and progression. The study, which followed children from ages 7 to 11 for three years, showed that the treatment benefit remained even after discontinuing treatment.
Peripheral blood CD4+/CD8+ t cell ratio predicts HBsAg clearance in inactive HBsAg carriers treated with peginterferon alpha
Researchers found that a lower CD4+/CD8+ T cell ratio after 12-24 weeks significantly predicted HBsAg clearance in IHCs treated with peginterferon alpha. Higher baseline percentages of CD3+CD8+ cells and lower CD4+/CD8+ ratios were also associated with improved outcomes.
Study reveals cost differences between Medicare Advantage and traditional Medicare patients in cancer drugs
A new study found that Medicare Advantage patients with colorectal cancer are six percentage points less likely to receive a cancer drug compared to those on Traditional Medicare. For non-small cell lung cancer, the pattern was not as clear due to limited low-cost treatment options.
The aquaporin-4 inhibitor, N-(1,3,4-thiadiazol-2-yl)-3-pyridinecarboxamide, inhibits the glymphatic system
A study investigated the effects of N-(1,3,4-thiadiazol-2-yl)-3-pyridinecarboxamide (TGN-020), a selective AQP4 inhibitor, on glymphatic function. The results showed that acute inhibition of AQP4 significantly impaired glymphatic function without inducing short-term behavioral abnormalities in mice.
Physicists magnetize a material with light
Researchers at MIT have created a new magnetic state in an antiferromagnetic material using terahertz laser light, enabling controlled switching and potentially leading to more efficient memory chips. The technique provides a powerful tool for manipulating magnetism and advancing information processing technology.
Chungnam National University researchers develop power-free color-changing strain sensor
Chungnam National University researchers developed a magnetoplasmonic strain sensor that changes color in response to mechanical stress, offering a reliable and user-friendly solution for real-time health and activity tracking. The device is powered-free, versatile, and ideal for use in remote or extreme environments.
Overcoming one of the challenges of quantum mechanics: towards the control of chemical reactions
A team of international researchers successfully controlled the quantum states of matter at ultrafast time scales and its chemical properties with extreme precision using light in the extreme ultraviolet. The technique was demonstrated on helium atoms, enabling the enhancement of selected quantum processes while suppressing others.
Jabuticaba peel improves nutritional characteristics of bread
The addition of jabuticaba peel flour increased the bread's fiber content by over 50% and raised its antioxidant capacity by 1.35-3.53 times, leading to improved blood sugar control and insulin response. The study found that satiety increased after consuming the bread with jabuticaba peel flour, suggesting a lower glycemic index.
Long-term survival and cardiac efficacy of a gene therapy for Duchenne muscular dystrophy
A new study found that gene therapy delandistrogene moxeparvovec significantly extended the median survival of Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) rats to >25 months. Additionally, the treatment elicited statistically significant improvements in cardiac parameters and mobility.
Improving our appearance makes us better contributors to society
A Tel Aviv University study finds that individuals who enhance their appearance are more likely to exhibit prosocial behavior, including donating to charity. The research suggests that feeling attractive can motivate people to engage in good deeds, with a significant impact on social consciousness.
How optogenetics can put the brakes on epilepsy seizures
Scientists have successfully used optogenetics to control seizure activity in living human brain tissue, opening doors to new treatments for epilepsy and other neurological diseases. By switching off specific neurons with light pulses, researchers can prevent seizures from occurring, providing a less invasive alternative to surgery.
Light-based therapy reduces pain associated with peripheral diabetic neuropathy, study proves
A study found that monochromatic infrared light combined with physical therapy significantly reduced pain and improved sleep quality in patients with peripheral diabetic neuropathy. The treatment was effective in reducing symptoms and improving functionality for patients with intense pain.
Early treatment for nerve tumors prevents serious problems, study finds
Researchers found that non-invasive stereotactic radiosurgery significantly improves tumor control and reduces symptoms such as tinnitus, cranial nerve deterioration, and vestibular dysfunction. Early treatment can prevent tumors from growing over time and spare patients from irreversible problems.
A new milestone in the study of octopus arms
Researchers developed a high-fidelity computational model to capture octopus arm muscular architecture and its complex movements. The model uses topology, dynamics, and control to simplify muscle contraction patterns and replicate octopus arm capabilities.
Transportation institute awarded nearly $1 million in trucking education grants
The Virginia Tech Transportation Institute received nearly $1 million in grants to develop and enhance tractor-trailer educational programs. The programs focus on advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) and safer driving outreach, aiming to save lives by educating drivers on the benefits of these technologies.
Stereotactic radiosurgery achieves high rates of tumor control for koos grade i vestibular schwannomas
A study found that stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) achieved high rates of tumor control for patients with Koos grade I vestibular schwannomas. The procedure also reduced the risk of cranial dysfunction, tinnitus, and vestibular dysfunction compared to observation alone.
New study reveals blood sugar control is a key factor in slowing brain aging, highlighting the benefits of the Mediterranean diet
Researchers found that improved blood sugar control significantly impacts brain health, slowing down age-related brain atrophy by up to 50%. The Green Mediterranean Diet, rich in polyphenols, shows promise in supporting metabolic and brain health.
Novel digital pet game within smoking cessation app increases user engagement with app’s tools to quit smoking
A new study found that embedding a customizable digital pet game within a popular smoking cessation app increased user engagement and direct use of the app's smoking cessation tools. Overall engagement with the app increased by 20 percent, and direct use of the tool increased by 30 percent among participants who had access to the game.
Rapid horizontal eye movement can improve stability in people with Parkinson’s
Researchers found that participants with Parkinson's who performed rapid side-to-side eye movements showed reduced body sway and improved posture. In contrast, those with Parkinson's who made vertical saccadic eye movements experienced increased body instability.
Scientists create cancer patients’ ‘digital twins’ to predict how well treatments may work
Researchers have developed a technology called FarrSight-Twin that creates digital twins of real cancer patients to predict treatment response. The approach was tested on published clinical trials and showed accurate predictions in all simulated studies, with 75% response rate among patients receiving the predicted best treatment.
Mexican jumping beans jump to safety in a dynamic world, new research reveals
New research from Binghamton University reveals that Mexican jumping bean larvae respond differently to various lighting conditions, with red light stimulating the most vigorous jumps. However, damage to their 'bean' hosts hinders their ability to jump away from stressors.
Revising Medicare Part D prescription drug policy could save billions
Removing protected class regulation from Medicare Part D policies could reduce US prescription drug spending, potentially saving $47 billion between 2011-2019. The study found that rebates for protected classes of drugs grew at a slower pace than non-protected classes.
Chinese Medical Journal investigates recent and future trends of lung cancer
According to the Global Cancer Observatory (GLOBOCAN), lung cancer is the most common type of cancer, with 2.2 million new cases and 1.8 million deaths worldwide in 2020. China had the highest number of new cases, and incidence and mortality rates have been steadily rising from 1990 to 2019.
Success of meal boxes in treating childhood obesity
A study conducted by the University of Gothenburg found that meal boxes with healthy recipes and subsidized meals led to a greater reduction in children's BMI compared to lifestyle treatment alone. The intervention also involved family meals, which were perceived as tolerable and reduced conflicts over food shopping.
Research points a way to modulate scarring in spinal cord injury
Researchers at UCSF have identified a molecular pathway that controls the formation of scar tissue in spinal cord injuries. By activating this pathway, they were able to reduce scarring and promote healing in mice with spinal cord injuries.
Silencing in action: how cells 'repress' genomic remnants of ancient viruses
Researchers identified key control sites regulating gene expression in cells, including those controlling ancient viral sequences. Mutating these sites caused defects in cell differentiation and survival, as well as spurious activation of genes across the genome.
UPF is coordinating a European project funded with 28 million euros to reduce the number of test animals
The VICT3R project, led by UPF, uses data from pharmaceutical industry and AI to create virtual control groups for preclinical drug safety studies. The initiative aims to reduce animal usage by up to 25% and contribute to the 3Rs of animal testing.
‘Heart-in-a-box’ better than cooler for heart transplants
Researchers at the University of Gothenburg found that hearts stored in a 'heart-in-a-box' method experienced lower rates of heart failure and severe organ failure after transplantation. This breakthrough method uses hypothermic oxygenated machine perfusion to keep the heart oxygenated and functioning better.
WVU researcher says more validation needed for increase in gallbladder surgeries
A WVU researcher argues that more validation is needed for the increasing number of gallbladder surgeries performed for biliary dyskinesia, a functional gallbladder disorder. The researcher suggests that a combination of factors must come together to diagnose and select patients who would benefit from surgery.
Evidence-based information combats misleading and false claims on the internet and social media about the anti-Mullerian hormone test
Researchers found that when given accurate information about the anti-Mullerian hormone test, women had less interest in taking the test compared to those who viewed misleading online claims. The study highlights the importance of providing evidence-based information to women seeking fertility treatment.
Prevalence and impact of the KIT M541L variant in patients with mastocytosis
Researchers found a significant association between the KIT M541L variant and mastocytosis diagnosis in patients with systemic and cutaneous mastocytosis. The variant was identified in 19 individuals, mostly diagnosed with systemic mastocytosis, but without significant differences in symptomatology.
How does the brain respond to sleep apnea?
A recent study at the University of Missouri discovered that oxytocin and corticotropin-releasing hormone cause the brainstem to become overactive, leading to hypertension. This finding can help develop targeted drugs to reduce high blood pressure in sleep apnea patients.
Early vision loss linked with difficulty judging sounds
A new study published in Optometry and Vision Sciences found that people with early vision loss are less accurate at estimating the distance of sound compared to those who lose sight later in life. This difficulty can have safety implications, such as judging distances while crossing roads.
Even 10 minutes of nature exposure likely to yield benefits for adults with mental illness
A meta-analysis published in Ecopsychology found that even brief nature exposure can have a positive effect on symptomology, including affect, anxiety, and depression. The study suggests using nature exposure as an intervention to improve health and wellbeing for adults with mental illness.
Women and social exclusion: The complicated nature of rejection and retaliation
A new study from the University of Ottawa explores young women's reactions to social exclusion, revealing that retaliation is a common response to rejection. The study uses EEG to assess social pain in 87 participants, providing insight into the neurological underpinnings of peer rejection.
Breakthrough in tremor treatment: Robotic therapy developed by GIST researchers improves daily activities
Researchers at the Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology (GIST) have developed an innovative robotic rehabilitation system called SPINDLE to enhance the strength and dexterity of individuals with tremors. The study revealed significant benefits, including improved motor control, coordination, and neuroplasticity.
Specialist training transforms football coach attitudes towards intervening to prevent violence and abuse, study shows
A study has found that specialist training for football coaches increases their confidence to intervene when witnessing abusive behaviour towards females. The programme also promotes positive role models among players, shaping social attitudes towards women.