The discovery represents the first known structure of JNK3, a MAP Kinase family enzyme implicated in neurological diseases like epilepsy. Vertex's interdisciplinary approach may lead to new drugs against innovative targets, building on their track record of applying structural information to genomic discoveries.
A new study found that countries with a smaller percentage of Catholics and no state support for the church have higher annulment rates. Annulments have increased since the Second Vatican Council made them easier to get, with the largest rise occurring in the US.
Scientists discover that adding defects to materials can enhance their performance in semiconductor devices, leading to breakthroughs in information technology, high-speed communications, and the development of new LED technologies. Researchers are also exploring ways to exploit defects in optical fibers to increase bandwidth capacities.
Researchers discovered ehrlichiosis, a tick-borne infection, shows increased fluid in lungs on chest X-rays, helping doctors diagnose it earlier and potentially treat it more effectively. The illness can be mild but also rapidly fatal, and early detection is crucial.
A new Martian meteorite was discovered in the hot desert climate of the Sahara, increasing the total number of Martian meteorites to 13. The meteorite's inert gas inventory and elemental ratios confirm its Martian origin, providing valuable insights into Mars' geochemical processes and evolution.
A 2,000-year-old climate warming event was discovered in East Africa by analyzing sediment cores from a high-altitude lake. This study suggests that the climate can warm up suddenly without human activity, providing new insights into past climate fluctuations and potentially informing predictions about future climate change.
A recent Cornell University study found that men are less accepting of obese partners compared to women with eating disorders. The study surveyed 752 university students and revealed that 74% of men would be uncomfortable dating someone who is obese, while only 59% said they wouldn't date a woman with an eating disorder. This disparity...
A study by Ohio State University researchers reveals that low-prejudice people are more critical of weak arguments made by minority group members, while high-prejudice individuals ignore such statements. Low-prejudice individuals notice flaws in arguments from minority groups and are motivated to ensure their responses are not prejudiced.
Cornell University is part of a national effort to pioneer new integrated circuit design and support the US microchip industry. The university's contribution will focus on photonics and novel information distribution methods.
A study by Jeanne McCauley and colleagues found that abused women face significant barriers to discussing their abuse with doctors, including shame, denial, and a lack of supportive physicians. Despite this, many women reported improvement in their health after leaving the relationship or speaking with a doctor.
Researchers at Oregon Health Sciences University have identified a genetic cause for age-related macular degeneration, the leading cause of blindness in the US. A large family study revealed a specific gene location on chromosome 1q25-q31, offering hope for future treatments and preventative measures.
A study by Adrian Raine found that three-year-olds who are half an inch taller than their peers tend to be more aggressive as 11-year-olds. The researchers also discovered that stimulation-seeking and fearless toddlers were at higher risk for aggression, regardless of gender.
Female Mediterranean fruit flies exhibit two distinct aging patterns when food supply is limited, delaying reproduction until advanced age. Once a complete diet is available, they produce eggs rapidly and age swiftly, suggesting reproduction as a key factor in aging.
A critical chemical reaction previously thought to support microbial life deep below Earth's surface is now considered highly unlikely. Microorganisms are likely living on organic matter associated with rock, not hydrogen, according to researchers.
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill scientists have found that the BRCA1 gene is necessary for transcription-coupled repair of certain types of DNA damage, which can lead to breast and ovarian cancer. The study provides direct evidence of the gene's role in DNA repair and may help develop new treatments for cancer.
Mediterranean fruit flies exhibit two distinct modes of aging based on food supply, with limited protein leading to delayed reproduction and high protein enabling rapid production and aging. This study reveals surprising findings about the relationship between nutrition, reproduction, and longevity in these insects.
A Johns Hopkins study found that shame, denial, and fear of others' reactions prevent many abused women from sharing their experiences with doctors. Despite positive interactions with physicians, women often face barriers, including clinicians' discomfort or lack of understanding.
A University of Michigan study found that busy individuals are more prone to medication errors, whereas older adults tend to exhibit better adherence rates. The researchers developed the 'Busy Life Style Questionnaire' to measure daily chaos and identified being too busy as the primary risk factor for mistakes.
Scientists at Oregon State University have found evidence of rock-eating microbes living nearly a mile beneath the ocean floor, which could suggest similar life on Mars or other planets. The discovery suggests that conditions similar to those on Mars exist beneath the ocean floor and could support life.
The study found that Eptifibatide reduced heart attack and death by an overall 1.5 percent worldwide, with a significant effect even among patients already taking aspirin or heparin. The drug works by inhibiting the receptor that causes platelets to bind together and form a clot.
Researchers at UCSF have discovered a new molecular mechanism that activates platelets, leading to clot formation. The discovery of protease-activated receptor 4 (PAR4) may lead to new approaches for developing drugs to prevent heart attacks and strokes.
Researchers found signs of C. pneumoniae in 17 Alzheimer's sufferers, but stress it may not cause the disease. The bacterium infects microglia and astroglia, producing inflammatory cytokines that trigger inflammation in Alzheimer's brains.
Researchers developed a method to send data by bouncing radio signals off meteor trails during the Cold War. A Seattle-based company, StarCom Technologies, has created a civilian version of this system as a cheap alternative to satellite technology.
Women who develop diabetes during pregnancy face an increased risk of later developing type-2 diabetes. Using the mini-pill, progestin-only birth control pills, may put these women at a higher risk of developing chronic form of the disease, warns USC researchers.
A Florida biologist found that subtle increases in CO2 can kill mining moths by reducing the nutritional value of their food. Many more larvae died in chambers with high CO2 levels, likely due to malnutrition caused by lower nitrogen content.
University of Washington psychologists found a connection between mothers' morning sickness and infant salt preference. Babies whose mothers experienced moderate to severe nausea had a stronger preference for salty solutions, suggesting dehydration may imprint taste preferences during pregnancy.
Researchers are studying the upper levels of hurricanes to understand their mechanics, a shift from traditional middle-altitude observations. This is part of ongoing research to save lives by providing more accurate data on storm intensity and energy exchange.
Chlamydia infection can occur without symptoms, highlighting the need for more frequent testing. The study found that over 50% of infected adolescent females tested positive within six months, emphasizing the importance of regular screenings.
A recent study by Dr. Robert Haley at UT Southwestern Medical Center reveals that Gulf War veterans experience significant post-war excesses in hospitalizations and deaths, contrary to earlier government studies. The research is based on the team's findings of neurological damage caused by chemical exposure during the war.
A new Johns Hopkins study suggests better ways of taking LAAM, a drug similar to methadone, by increasing dosage frequency and reducing side effects. The study found significant reductions in heroin use among participants, with over 80% staying with the treatment, and increased patient adherence due to its longer-acting benefits.
A study by Harold G. Koenig and colleagues found a significant connection between regular church attendance, Bible study, and lower blood pressure in older adults. The research, published in the International Journal of Psychiatry in Medicine, suggests that practicing religion in traditional ways may have health benefits.
Salmon returns have fallen short of expectations in Alaska, with declines attributed to natural ocean cycles and potential regime shifts. Scientists attribute the changes to shifts in phytoplankton species composition and plankton abundance.
A joint research project is underway to locate and evaluate the condition of sunken whaling vessels lost off Alaska's north coast in 1871. The expedition, led by the West Coast and Polar Regions Undersea Research Center, utilizes side-scan sonar and a remotely operated vehicle (ROV) provided by NASA.
A three-year study in Cameroon reveals that hornbills disperse seeds of nearly a quarter of tropical trees, playing a major role in forest regeneration. The birds' large range and seed dispersal abilities make them vital agents of biodiversity.
A gene knockout mouse study by Vertex Pharmaceuticals and Yale researchers establishes the role of Caspase-9 in a specific biochemical pathway resulting in neuronal cell death. This finding suggests that blocking Caspase-9 may be a viable strategy for treating acute and chronic age-related neurological diseases.
Researchers discovered that female paper wasps sit and wait for opportunities to adopt orphaned nests or hijack others, a risky behavior with high reproductive benefits. Adopting the most mature nests allows these queens to produce workers quickly, increasing colony survival.
Researchers have discovered a molecular circuit breaker that prevents uncontrolled cell growth, which could increase the effectiveness of conventional anti-cancer therapy. The protein ARF works as a fuse or circuit breaker, monitoring cell signals and preventing over-stimulation.
A new questionnaire developed by UCSF researchers helps healthcare providers identify patients at risk of contracting HIV, and patients are willing to disclose risky behavior even when their doctor will see the results. The tool aims to increase aggressive prevention and treatment of HIV/AIDS, a leading cause of death among young adults.
Researchers found a near-100% loss of hatchlings due to predation and lack of migration between two forest preserves. The study suggests genetic isolation and potential extinction threats for the Illinois population.
Scientists found that genetically-engineered oilseed rape produces hybrid, transgenic weeds resistant to herbicides, which reproduce as prolifically as unaltered weeds. These weeds may carry beneficial traits from the crop parent and still exhibit weed-like characteristics.
Temple University Hospital has introduced the internal jaw distraction device DynaForm, which helps regrow destroyed bone and correct facial deformities. The device is less cumbersome than traditional methods and can be used as an alternative to painful extraction for severe tooth crowding.
A decline in deaths from congestive heart failure (CHF) has been observed among older adults in the US between 1988 and 1995. The greatest drop was seen in black adults, likely due to improved treatment strategies advocated by the American Heart Association, including earlier identification and better medication adherence.
A recent study found that chronically ill children are more likely to experience poor adjustment, including hostility or withdrawal, regardless of the illness type. The researchers controlled for social and economic factors but still observed a significant difference between chronically ill and healthy children.
A University of Florida study reveals that zinc supplements can increase the levels of genetic material in human immune cells, providing immediate protection against disease and stress. The research found a rapid response to zinc supplementation, with RNA levels increasing three times within 24 hours.
Biological clocks in animals and plants regulated by temperature rather than light, according to Dartmouth study. Temperature cycles may be crucial for maintaining circadian rhythm in humans, particularly during seasonal changes.
A new study published in JAMA found that nearly 4 in 10 female emergency room patients have experienced physical or emotional abuse, with 14 percent reporting recent abuse. The study highlights the need for healthcare professionals to screen patients for domestic violence and provide necessary referrals.
The Aurex-3 device uses a vibrating probe to cancel out ringing sounds in the ear, offering long-term benefits without interfering with hearing. Developed by ADM Tronics, the device employs beat harmonics to effectively mask tinnitus symptoms.
Researchers at New York University have developed a technique to assemble DNA molecules into two-dimensional crystals with precise topographic features. The method uses synthetic DNA double-crossover molecules and exploits the key chemical feature of DNA to achieve predictable self-assembly.
Researchers found that flooding in Venezuela's Lake Guri dam project isolated butterfly and ant species, causing some to thrive while others declined. The study highlights the complex effects of ecological disturbances and has implications for conservation efforts in fragmented landscapes.
Precious Woods Ltd, a forestry company in Brazil, has been awarded the ESA Corporate Award for its innovative approach to sustainable forest management. The company's use of advanced planning and ecological principles has resulted in the conservation of 97% of primary forest in the State of Amazonas.
Researchers investigated beaver pond succession and its impact on waterfowl productivity, finding that ponds in the old active stage created the most valuable habitat for waterfowl broods. Beaver ponds also support a wide range of bird species, including marsh and song birds.
The safety of new high blood pressure drugs is being questioned due to insufficient data. Centrally acting antihypertensives have been found to target brainstem receptors that orchestrate blood vessel dilation, but concerns remain over their long-term effectiveness in reducing heart attacks, strokes, and deaths.
A recent study published in American Psychologist challenges the use of Holland-based tests across U.S. ethnic and racial groups. Despite initial concerns, researchers found that different groups match up remarkably well with each other when it comes to perceptions of job-related activities and their relationships.
Researchers Caro-Beth Stewart and Todd Disotell propose a new model for the evolution of humans and apes, suggesting that the common ancestor evolved in Asia rather than Africa. This theory requires only two hominoid migration events, marking a significant departure from traditional views.
The Oregon State University-led program aims to bridge the gap between scientific knowledge and public perception on environmental issues. The five-year grant-funded initiative will train 20 tenured scientists in effective communication skills, enabling them to share their expertise with local communities, media, and policymakers.
The Duke scientists analyzed past climate changes and found that the region rapidly changed with even short-term climate fluctuations, making it susceptible to drastic ecological changes. The researchers expect that global warming will significantly increase temperatures worldwide over the next century, leading to shifts in air masses ...
Scientists at Duke University and colleagues found that high CO2 levels can increase tree growth rates, but the effect is likely temporary. The experiment, which mimics future CO2 levels, shows a 12% increase in forest growth, but growth rates are expected to decline over time as the forest adjusts.
Centrifugal relays use reusable ball bearings to accelerate payloads at high velocity, avoiding exponential growth in reaction mass. The system requires precise aiming and tracking, but can be controlled by monitoring velocity and direction.
A new computer model predicts that climate events like El Nino can affect Aedes aegypti mosquito populations, potentially leading to outbreaks of dengue disease. The model takes into account climatic variables such as precipitation, temperature, and humidity to forecast population booms and peaks.
Researchers at Duke University have found that transplanted skeletal muscle cells can mimic heart muscle, significantly boosting the ability of damaged hearts to contract. The therapy has the potential to augment current treatments and prevent further damage.