Researchers are developing a new approach to cancer treatment called adoptive immunotherapy, which uses tumour antigens to stimulate immune cells. Tumour antigens are identified and used to sensitize T cells, which then recognize and attack cancer cells.
Researchers at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center found a way to increase vitamin C levels in the brain by crossing the blood brain barrier. They achieved this by injecting dehydroascorbic acid, which is converted to ascorbic acid in the brain.
OHSU scientists find obese mice resistant to increasing leptin levels, contrary to previous hypothesis that higher leptin would suppress appetite. The study sheds new light on the role of leptin in body weight regulation and raises questions about its potential therapeutic value for obesity treatment.
A new digital X-ray technology being studied at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital has the potential to replace film-based radiography, reducing healthcare costs and improving patient care. The technology offers enhanced image quality, lower radiation doses, and increased efficiency for radiologists.
Researchers discovered that biological clocks are independently controlled in various body parts, including appendages and sensory cells. These findings could lead to new strategies for treating disorders related to jet lag, shift work, and seasonal depression.
In a breakthrough study, scientists found that fruit flies' clock genes respond in unison to environmental light manipulations, indicating independent operation outside the brain. This discovery suggests that cells harbor novel photoreceptors and challenges traditional views of circadian rhythm regulation.
A Columbia University scientist warns that global warming could cause the abrupt collapse of ocean currents, sending European temperatures plummeting by 20 degrees Fahrenheit within 10 years. This could lead to a drastic change in climate, with devastating consequences.
Researchers at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital found that the ARF tumor suppressor interacts with the p53 gene, preventing cancer growth and development. The study identifies a single genetic locus, INK4a/ARF, which encodes two proteins regulating two key biochemical pathways.
Scientists found that blocking melanocortin-4 receptors impaired leptin's ability to reduce food intake and promote weight loss. Activating the receptor may help treat obesity by overcoming leptin resistance, a common cause of excessive weight gain.
Scientists have discovered that sulfur transforms into a superconductor at extremely high pressure, with a critical temperature of 10 K. The findings provide an important test for theories of superconductivity and could lead to new energy-related applications.
A new study found that insulin therapy is largely ineffective in achieving tight blood sugar control in people with type 2 diabetes. The study suggests that most patients need more aggressive treatment to reach near-normal blood sugar levels and highlights the need for a revised standard of care.
A new device has been developed to protect patients from radiation exposure during CT scans, with significant reductions in breast and thyroid radiation exposure reported. The reusable protective garment is expected to cost less than $30, making it a potential game-changer for individuals at risk of increased lifetime breast cancer risk.
Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute's Isothermal Dendritic Growth Experiment is the most extensive non-NASA remote operation on the flight, providing high-quality data for dendritic growth studies. The experiment's video system records 30 images a second, offering real-time insights into crystal growth in space.
Scientists created a recombinant protein that fused heat shock proteins with ovalbumin, leading to immune response against ovalbumin-producing cancer cells. The technology could be used to develop vaccine candidates against infectious diseases like AIDS and stimulate CTL responses against cancer.
Researchers have designed a new crab trap that significantly reduces turtle mortality by allowing turtles to access air during low and high tide. The modified trap has caught over 1,000 turtles in two years with only one loss, while increasing the number of crabs caught.
A study by Pitt researchers found that adolescents with alcohol problems were more likely to have experienced traumatic events such as physical or sexual abuse. The study suggests that prevention programs targeting these individuals may be effective in preventing substance abuse.
Researchers have developed a new protein, IL13-PE38QQR, that penetrates brain cancer cells and kills them without harming healthy cells. The protein is a combination of interleukin 13 and Pseudomonas exotoxin, which can be delivered through the skull via a needle, potentially allowing patients to remain awake during treatment.
Duke engineers will develop computer software to provide students with easy-to-use simulations of imaging equipment, enhancing training of biomedical engineers and physicians. The Virtual Imaging Laboratory will also be established to teach the physics and design of diagnostic technologies.
A recent study has found that a mutation in the HNF4alpha gene causes MODY1, a rare form of Type 2 diabetes. The defect impairs glucose homeostasis and glycolysis pathways.
A new study found that people with dyslexia exhibit lower brain activity in the visual cortex, which may predict their reading speed. The researchers used functional MRI imaging to measure differences in brain activity between dyslexics and non-dyslexics.
A newly released intelligence test can help diagnose Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in children by measuring their planning ability. The test, called the Cognitive Assessment System (CAS), showed that children with ADHD scored significantly lower than average on CAS in a measurement of planning ability.
A recent study found that inadequate pretrial preparation can lead to decreased reporting of rape cases. Researchers suggest that prosecutors provide more helpful instructions, such as giving a tour of the courtroom, to increase trust and comfort for survivors. This can help improve the justice system's response to rape victims.
Researchers at Ohio University created a new type of chemical sensor that stores large amounts of information indefinitely, allowing workers to be alerted to potential dangers. The sensors can detect specific chemicals in the air and provide accurate readings on exposure levels.
Scientists at NIH developed a new drug that reduces tumor size without severe side effects. In a clinical trial, 9 of 15 patients had significant tumor regression, with complete disappearance in two cases. A related therapy using virus-producing cells also showed promise, but only for small tumors.
A study found that only 5% of rural adults seeking treatment for illegal drug use have adequate resources. Rural drug users often hesitate due to cost, lack of insurance, and concerns about maintaining anonymity at treatment centers. This gap highlights the need for targeted interventions in rural areas.
A USC study found that prostate cancer patients who use erection aids after surgery report similar levels of sexual functioning to those who haven't undergone surgery. The researchers found that erection aids allowed patients to recover their sex lives, rivaling even nerve-sparing surgery.
A recent study by Ohio State University suggests that stress levels can motivate smokers to think about quitting. Contrary to popular belief, high stress does not discourage smokers but rather heightens their awareness of the health risks associated with smoking.
Researchers use liquid helium as a 2D fluid to study the finite size effect and its impact on conductivity. The experiment aims to improve signal-to-noise ratios and push understanding even further.
A high-protein, low-calorie diet has been shown to help obese hospital patients maintain stable blood sugar levels and burn body fat without compromising their health. The diet allowed patients to avoid diabetes and hyperglycemia, while also reducing the risk of post-operative infections.
Researchers found a significant decrease in kainate binding to receptors in the arcuate nucleus of SIDS infants, leading to faulty communication among nerve cells. This finding may contribute to the development of a screening test for identifying infants at risk or measuring kainate receptor binding for diagnosis.
Researchers at Ohio State University have retrieved the first ice cores from the Dasuopu Glacier, a 40-meter-wide ice field on the Tibetan Plateau. The cores contain glacial stage ice dating back at least 12,000 years and are expected to provide valuable insights into the monsoonal climate system.
A recent MGH study found that only 31% of patients with heart failure were prescribed ACE inhibitors in 1994, despite their proven effectiveness in reducing death and disability. The study suggests a lack of knowledge and unrealistic assessments may contribute to the underprescription of these medications.
A reanalysis of international data reveals a significant decline in sperm density across the United States and Europe, with the rate of decrease varying by region. The study found an average annual decrease of 1.5 million sperm per milliliter in the US and 3.1% per year in Europe.
A study by the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke found that more than 70% of MS patients exhibited an increased immune response to human herpes virus-6, suggesting a potential trigger for the disease. Active HHV-6 was detected in approximately 35% of all MS patients studied.
The Whitaker Foundation has awarded $6.8 million in grants to improve biomedical engineering education at six US universities and one in Canada. The grants will support the creation of new graduate programs, research initiatives, and infrastructure development.
A study found that reading intervention, particularly emphasizing specific words during reading sessions, can significantly benefit children with language delays. Researchers worked with 14 children aged 3-5 and their parents, who read two picture books daily for six weeks.
Researchers have discovered that individual neurons in the brain can be compared to tiny computers that analyze and integrate information from different sources. These findings have implications for improving hearing aids, sonar devices, and speech recognition systems.
Researchers at Sandia National Laboratories have created microtransmissions, which can augment the power of tiny microengines by a significant margin. The new device increases power output by a factor of 3 million, generating enough force to move a one-pound object.
Researchers determined the structure of methyl-coenzyme M reductase, a key enzyme in methanogenesis that produces methane for cellular energy. The crystal structure has provided new insights into the enzymatic mechanism and will aid in characterizing other enzyme states.
Researchers discovered muscle dysmorphia, a disorder causing individuals to obsess over their bodies, leading to detrimental habits like steroid abuse. The study emphasizes the importance of public health implications as weightlifting gains popularity.
The USMP-4 experiment has provided new data on metallic dendrite growth, revealing a closer correspondence between microgravity and theory. The findings are being used to improve computer casting models, reducing the design process from weeks to days.
Dystonia results from a deficiency in dopamine receptors, according to researchers at Washington University School of Medicine. A study found that dopamine levels were 97-98% lower on the treated side of the brain during dystonic symptoms.
A study of 1,399 Vietnam veterans found that those with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) were 50-150% more likely to develop serious diseases. Veterans with PTSD who saw heavy combat were particularly at risk for circulatory and respiratory problems.
Researchers Andrea Cooper and Julie Inamine are investigating why Mycobacterium avium causes disease in AIDS patients despite humans not being natural hosts. The studies aim to identify genes responsible for the bacteria's virulence and develop drugs to prevent disease.
Scientists use sensors to measure the intensity of vibrations at different frequencies, optimizing experiments for the US Microgravity Payload. By analyzing data from past missions, they can plan future ones more effectively and minimize disturbances.
Research by Matthew Hardy and colleagues found that stress hormones overpower the enzymes responsible for producing testosterone in testes, leading to a suppression of sperm formation. The study provides insight into male reproduction and may aid the design of new male contraceptives.
Researchers discover that dopamine levels can enhance or impair working memory, with a low dose of the drug bromocriptine improving scores in low-capacity subjects but worsening performance in high-capacity individuals. The study suggests an optimal level of dopamine for short-term memory to function properly.
IntraLase Corporation will develop ultrafast ophthalmic lasers for refractive and other surgical procedures, enhancing eye care with precise technology. The company combines U-M intellectual property with Escalon Medical's patents to bring innovative laser solutions to the medical field.
Researchers are studying the effects of the 1989 Exxon Valdez oil spill on Alaskan sea otter populations. Initial results indicate higher levels of an enzyme in otters living near the spill area, suggesting continued exposure to low levels of oil or other contaminants.
Physicist John Lipa's Shuttle Experiment could revolutionize electronics miniaturization. The experiment aims to measure the confinement effect on materials in ultra-low temperatures.
Researchers at MGH have discovered a new immune response that may help control HIV levels in the body. In a study of chronically infected individuals and long-term nonprogressors, the team found that those with strong HIV-specific helper T-cell responses had lower viral loads, suggesting a potential therapeutic target.
Researchers propose a colliding beam fusion reactor fueled by protons and boron, reducing radioactivity and environmental impact. The new design could replace all gas-powered plants worldwide with minimal greenhouse gas emissions.
A study found that 80% of older mothers admit to having a favorite child, while 71% of their grown children correctly identify their mom's favorite. The researchers also discovered that how parents feel about their children depends on factors like social status and personal history.
Carnegie Mellon University researchers are developing mobile, wearable computer systems to provide fast access to maintenance and repair information for aircraft mechanics. The project aims to cut time and cost of planes going in and out of repair depots, benefiting the US Air Force.
Researchers have developed a novel gene-therapy strategy to target HIV-infected cells using the virus's molecular tools against it. The technique, which employs therapeutic genes only in infected cells, has broad applicability and could potentially cure HIV infection.
Researchers at the University of Washington have developed technology to measure forces and torques in surgical procedures, enabling the creation of more realistic simulators. These enhanced simulators could drastically reduce training time and costs while improving performance.
A recent study suggests that a human gene variation affecting lung enzyme production may be associated with reduced susceptibility to lung cancer. The study found that approximately 8% of the population has the 'protective' gene form, which reduces by about 54% the risk of developing lung cancer among smokers.
Researchers isolated two substances in grapefruit, furanocoumarins, that increase drug absorption by inhibiting an enzyme called CYP3A4. This discovery could lead to improved oral medications and increased reliability of drugs.
UD and Lincoln University researchers investigate the break-down of carbon in coastal waters by studying chitin degradation, which could help predict atmospheric carbon levels. The study aims to better understand the role of biology in global climate change.
A recent study by University of Washington professor Ana Mari Cauce found that homeless adolescents face rampant violence, abuse, and mental health issues on the streets. Despite these challenges, some children reported conditions on the streets to be better than living at home.