Articles tagged with Research Funding
Researchers study energy consumption in insect brains to better understand human brain function and develop more effective treatments for stroke patients. The team's findings could also improve our understanding of state-of-the-art scanning techniques like MRI and PET.
Researchers have developed a new technique for detecting atypical cells in breast ducts, which could identify pre-cancerous abnormalities years before mammographically detectable lesions develop. A device that retrieves ductal cells has shown promising results in clinical trials, identifying abnormal cells in 15% of the population.
Researchers at the University of Rochester have developed an optical system that gives people unprecedented eyesight, improving even those with 20/20 vision. The technology, using adaptive optics, detects subtle visual distortions and corrects them for improved low-light conditions.
Researchers at UNC-CH's Odum Institute are conducting studies on the social effects of Hurricane Floyd, including oral history investigations and strategies to help low-literate adults cope with natural disasters. The projects aim to preserve regional history and provide insights for disaster relief efforts and future recovery.
A new OHSU study shows 54% of family members reported moderate or severe pain for dying patients in the last week of life, a sharp increase from 1997. Researchers attribute possible explanations to changes in pain treatment options and physician prescribing practices.
Researchers discovered how brain fills in missing information to help us perceive objects, even when they're partially blocked. This process allows for consistency and continuity in our visual world, enabling us to recognize shapes and objects accurately.
A Yale study reveals that training low-income parents and inner city daycare teachers to engage three-to five-year-olds in make believe play can significantly strengthen children's skills for succeeding in school. This play-based approach enhances vocabulary, language usage, counting, fine motor control, and social/emotional growth.
Researchers discovered that large female spiders in colonies compete for space by building their webs earlier, using a capitalist technique to pre-empt areas. This strategy allows them to secure private space for egg-laying and reduces conflicts with smaller spiders.
Researchers have developed a battery-powered disinfecting pen that can inactivate waterborne parasites, viruses, and bacteria within minutes. The device generates mixed oxidants from a salt solution, delivering safe drinking water even better than plain chlorine.
Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center have developed an easy and inexpensive index to measure the severity of Alzheimer's disease. The index correlates a simple lab test determining platelet Alzheimer's plaque protein (APP) in blood with cognitive decline, as measured by the Mini-Mental State Exam.
Researchers found that estrogen use reduced cognitive decline in women with e2 and e3 ApoE alleles, but not in those with e4 variants. Estrogen also showed protective effects on carotid wall thickening and atherosclerosis.
A recent study of female participants with functional gastrointestinal disorders found that catastrophizing and low perception of power over symptoms worsened health outcomes. The researchers suggest that cognitive behavioral therapy may help alleviate these negative coping strategies and improve gastrointestinal symptoms.
A new Ohio University study found that weight training does not increase cholesterol levels in healthy young men and women, but reduces body fat and increases muscle strength. The research counters previous studies and news reports giving weight lifting a bad name.
The two-part documentary series explores how West Virginia became a separate state, with equal support for northern and southern causes. The series highlights the military actions and events that led to West Virginia's secession from Virginia and its subsequent development as a distinct state.
A new UCSF study has analyzed data from 1.5 million births to Mexican-born Latinas, U.S.-born Latinas, and U.S.-born White women, revealing lower rates of tobacco use and medical complications among Mexican-born Latina women.
A new international study found that parents of premature infants expressed strong interest in being involved in treatment and resuscitation decision-making. The majority felt that discussion on therapy was adequate, but suggested improvements could be made through better communication and simpler terminology.
Researchers found that mice with a missing gene for Protein Kinase A drank twice as much alcohol and recovered in about 65 minutes from intoxication. The study suggests PKA may play a role in regulating voluntary consumption of alcohol and sensitivity to its effects.
Researchers found evidence of El Niño-like climate changes in New England during the Ice Age, revealing a strong three-to-five-year cycle of activity. This finding provides new insights into El Niño's persistence under different climate conditions.
The Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center is proud to announce that five of its researchers have been selected as Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI) investigators. Drs. David Baker, Philip Green, and Michael Shadlen from the University of Washington, and Drs. Leonid Kruglyak and Cecilia Moens from the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Resear...
Researchers found that people exposed to pesticides were approximately two times more likely to develop Parkinson's disease than those not exposed. In-home exposure to insecticides carried the highest risk of developing the disease.
A study of retired football players found that over half had experienced concussions, leading to increased risk of neurological complaints such as memory problems and numbness in extremities. The survey suggests that repeated blows to the head may cause lasting damage, prompting calls for regular testing to monitor player health.
Researchers created self-assembling ink that forms nanoscopic pores with external function and internal structure. The new ink can be easily printed from ordinary printers or written by lithographic pens.
A new study by Oregon State University found that postmenopausal women who participate in a long-term fitness regimen can prevent significant bone loss in the hip. The exercise program, which includes weighted vests and jumping exercises, showed a significant reduction in bone density loss compared to a control group.
Tornado researcher Andrew Pazmany heads to the Great Plains to track supercells and determine conditions that enable F4/F5 tornadoes. He will use a modified marine radar to analyze storm structures and distances.
A University of Washington study found that real-world job training can significantly reduce the likelihood of ex-felons returning to prison. The successful trainees also earned more money and worked longer hours than those in dead-end jobs.
Case Western Reserve University researchers have developed a prototype of a miniature fuel cell with a volume of five cubic millimeters. The new cell uses hydrogen as a fuel and is produced using high-tech micro-fabrication techniques, enabling low-cost production.
A study found that moderate alcohol consumption can inhibit internal platelet aggregation, reducing the risk of heart attacks and coronary artery disease. However, the study's lead author emphasized that individual drinking habits should not be directly linked to the findings.
Michael Czech, Professor of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology at the University of Massachusetts Medical School, is being honored with the CIIT Founders' Award for his groundbreaking research on insulin's molecular action. He will speak on 'Fat as an Endocrine Organ: Target for Environmental Toxins' at the award ceremony.
A new study published in The Milbank Quarterly found that employers play a significant role in shaping workers' decisions about health plans. Sixty-six percent of employees rely on their employers for health plan information and use this information to make informed choices.
Research suggests a single drug could silence misfiring immune genes, quelling asthma response. Identical DNA controls of cytokine genes in mice and humans hint at new treatment.
A Canadian study found that bicycle helmet laws enacted in 1996 led to a significant increase in helmet use among cyclists, with overall wearing rates rising from 46% to 70%. Helmet use improved across all age groups and regions, but remained lower in non-metropolitan areas.
TAPET technology, a genetically altered Salmonella bacteria, shows improved antitumor activity when combined with radiation therapy. The NIH/NCI-funded SBIR grant aims to confirm this benefit in animal studies and develop a 'triple play' treatment for solid tumors.
A new wave/current/surge information system will provide accurate storm surge predictions and support evacuation plans. The system, called WAVCIS, uses offshore instruments to measure oceanographic conditions.
A new study suggests that a caspase-inhibiting drug could help delay ALS symptoms and prolong life. Researchers found that mice treated with zVAD-fmk lived 22% longer than untreated littermates, providing proof of principle for this potential treatment.
Researchers found that using handrails on a stepping machine reduces maximum heart rates by up to 5% and oxygen uptake by up to 8%. Women are advised to keep their hands off the rails for optimal results. The study, published in Research in Nursing & Health, suggests women should use a light touch or avoid using handrails altogether.
Adding acetone to composting method dissolves chunks of carcinogenic substance, allowing microbes to break it down. Microbial populations thrive under modified conditions, degrading explosive in just one day.
A study of 74 healthy African-American men found that hard-driving personalities can be beneficial when accompanied by job control and a fair amount of advancement opportunities. In contrast, those with little control over their workload and futures experienced increased cortisol levels, a stress hormone linked to health risks.
A new study found that soy foods can help lower cholesterol and reduce the risk of heart disease without stimulating harmful hormone activity. The research involved two groups of people on low-fat diets with or without soy, revealing no evidence to support claims of estrogenic effects.
Researchers found that Losartan reduced fatty streak development in monkeys fed a high-fat diet by 50%, suggesting the drug's potential in preventing atherosclerosis. The study suggests treating hypertension and cholesterol together may improve heart attack prevention statistics.
Oregon Health & Science University researchers will study why patients choose to die at home, exploring factors like decision-making process and patient pain concerns. The study aims to enhance understanding of the factors affecting end-of-life care delivery.
The NIH granted Vion Pharmaceuticals a two-year, $750,000 Small Business Innovation and Research (SBIR) grant to enhance the anti-tumor efficacy of its TAPET bacterial vector. The goal is to deliver potent anti-cancer agents directly at the tumor site, leveraging TAPET's preferential replication in tumors.
Researchers are studying reading development in young twins to understand the environmental and genetic influences on early reading skills. The CU-Boulder portion of the project aims to identify factors that contribute to reading difficulties in preschool children.
Scientists at Georgia Tech have developed a recipe book to precisely control the size and magnetic properties of magnetic nanoparticles. This allows for consistent application in drug delivery, MRI contrast enhancement, and cancer detection.
Long-term methamphetamine abuse can cause permanent brain cell damage, similar to Alzheimer's disease and stroke. The study found reduced levels of N-acetyl-aspartate and increased levels of myo-inositol and choline-containing compounds in the brains of abusers.
A new longitudinal study by UW researchers predicts marital stability with 87% accuracy, helping therapists diagnose marriage issues. The Oral History Interview explores a couple's relationship history and global perceptions of their marriage.
Researchers create an online library of electronic books using a specialized search tool called WebBook. The tool helps organize information in a database-driven format, making it easier for users to find specific answers.
Middle-aged men with low serum cholesterol levels are more likely to experience severe depression, according to a new study. The research also found that recent weight loss and lower caloric intake were associated with an increased risk of depressive symptoms.
Researchers at Pennsylvania State University have developed coal-derived jet fuels that can withstand higher temperatures without forming engine-clogging deposits. This breakthrough could enable faster, safer flight for commercial jet aircraft.
A new NASA web site features women who are making history with their contributions to microgravity research. The site profiles women from diverse backgrounds and expertise, including astronauts, scientists, engineers, and more.
A study by Ohio State University found that some energy bars give a sudden spike in blood sugar levels, unlike the moderate increase claimed for endurance athletes. The Ironman PR Bar had a steady effect due to its balanced carbohydrate and protein content.
A systematic analysis of clinical trials on glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate for treating osteoarthritis has shown mixed results, with potential benefits for symptom relief but methodological flaws and biases. The study recommends additional rigorous independent studies to determine true efficacy and usefulness.
Researchers at UCSF Center for AIDS Prevention Studies are conducting a quality-of-life study to understand challenges faced by HIV-positive individuals. The Unity Project aims to examine the effects of one-on-one interventions on managing healthcare, disclosing status, and dealing with sexuality.
Scientists at Johns Hopkins have developed a novel approach for detecting cancer based on genetic mutations in mitochondrial DNA. The new test uses bodily fluids such as urine, saliva, and sputum to identify cancer-specific mutations.
A study published in the Journal of Applied Physiology reveals that a specific pathway controls the breakdown of proteins regulating muscle type. The ubiquitin/proteasome pathway determines which proteins are degraded, allowing for the switching of muscle type during exercise training or constant contraction.
The study found that public walking trails can increase exercise levels among adults, particularly women and those from lower socioeconomic groups. More than half of users reported increased walking since starting to use the trails.
A study found that nearly 40% of people with access to walking trails used them, and over 55% of trail walkers increased their walking since beginning. Women were more than twice as likely as men to report increased activity due to trail use, while lower-income groups also saw a significant increase in physical activity.
Researchers found that MK-801 blocks the sensitizing effects of alcohol, making it a potential treatment for addiction. Behavioral sensitization is a phenomenon where repeated exposure to alcohol increases its rewarding effects, leading to overconsumption and addiction.
A Duke University Medical Center study found that depressed heart failure patients are at a higher risk of dying and experience more cardiovascular complications. The research proposes a mechanism by which depression harms the heart, including diminished heart rate variability and stickier platelets that increase blood clotting
A Duke study found that physicians' personal beliefs about treating patients with diabetes didn't change despite being informed of an evidence-based treatment guideline. The study suggests a widespread problem in medicine where doctors rely on their own experience rather than new data.
Researchers at Ohio State University found a strong correlation between high credit card debt and physical impairment. People experiencing stress over debt reported worse health outcomes than those with lower debt levels. The study suggests that high credit card debt can have a detrimental impact on overall well-being.