Researchers have identified a genetic link between the stargazer gene and calcium channel defects in absence epilepsy. The Cacng2 gene produces a defective protein that disrupts normal brain function, leading to abnormal neuron firing and seizures.
Researchers at Ohio University and Pennsylvania State University found molecular changes in muscles within 2-4 weeks of weight training. The study suggests that even limited workouts can induce significant changes in hormone production and protein expression.
A University of Michigan study suggests that post-retirement changes in life satisfaction are common and influenced by the size of a person's social support network. Recently retired individuals with larger networks tend to be more satisfied, while those with smaller networks may experience decreased life satisfaction.
A new study by Armin Bunde and colleagues found that temperature correlations persist worldwide, with a universal exponent gamma of -0.65, holding for at least a decade and potentially centuries.
A computer simulation model of a tsunami wave shows how energy spreads out over hundreds of miles as it travels through deep ocean water. The model is used to estimate impact force on structures and reduce damages caused by tsunamis.
Recent progress in Over-The-Horizon (OTH) radar technology is reviewed, including advancements in detection and tracking systems. Key findings include improved capabilities in clutter-dominated environments and the development of advanced algorithms to mitigate distortion mechanisms.
A new Ohio University study reveals that the political makeup of Congress and the party affiliation of the president play a significant role in shaping Supreme Court justices' rulings in criminal cases. The research found that liberal decisions by the court mirrored Democrats' influence, while conservative decisions were more prevalent...
The Department of Energy has developed two breakthrough devices, ARSA and RASA, to detect nuclear detonations by analyzing the atmosphere for radioactive material. These systems enhance the ability of the US and international community to detect and confirm nuclear explosions.
A team of Australian scientists has made a world-first discovery by describing the structure of a vital receptor found on the surface of body cells in all animals, including humans. This breakthrough has major implications for understanding growth and development, as well as diseases such as diabetes and cancer.
A Purdue University study reveals that a virus uses six RNAs to create a motor that transports DNA, facilitating the development of nanoscale devices. The research also improves scientists' understanding of how cells transport large molecules through membranes.
Scientists at NIST have successfully used an advanced measurement technique to study the evolution of complex defect structures in deformed metals. This breakthrough could lead to more accurate computer models that help manufacturers save hundreds of millions of dollars annually by reducing trial and error.
Scientists at Whitehead Institute for Biomedical Research discovered a plant gene called EIR1 that plays a critical role in root growth towards the earth in response to gravity. The findings may lead to new strategies for enhancing food production, particularly in arid climates.
Scientists have found that a marine snail venom extracts can prevent serotonin from acting on a specific receptor in African toad eggs, which is also found in the human brain. This discovery could provide insight into regulating nerve cell behavior and designing new drugs to control serotonin's actions.
The Hilary Koprowski Endowed Professorship will provide long-term support for renowned scientists, setting a precedent for additional endowed professorships at The Wistar Institute. Established in honor of Dr. Koprowski's contributions to medical research, the chair aims to advance vaccine development and cancer research.
Researchers created a mathematical model that builds on current FAA ground-holding policies, aiming to reduce cost and improve efficiency in air traffic management. The model has been partially implemented in Europe and shows a potential improvement of up to 30 percent in reducing congestion.
Researchers discovered a specific code that unlocks T cell activation, preventing immune cells from attacking the body's own cells. The code is: B1, C2, A1, A2, B2, C1.
Researchers have calculated that carbon-36 fullerenes may become superconducting at significantly higher temperatures than other carbon structures. The materials' unique bonding configurations and electron-phonon coupling mechanisms could enable superconductivity at temperatures up to three times higher than those of C-60.
Researchers found that depression is associated with erectile dysfunction (ED) in men, with moderate to complete ED occurring almost twice as often in those with depressive symptoms. The study used data from the Massachusetts Male Aging Study and found a significant link between ED and depressive symptomatology.
A cross-cultural study of over 1,200 Japanese women aged 45-55 found significantly lower reports of hot flashes and night sweats compared to American and Canadian women. The study suggests that biological and cultural variables contribute to the differences in menopause experiences.
The American Sociological Association Annual Meeting will focus on addressing inequality and its impact on social policy. Prominent sociologists and policymakers will share research findings on topics such as affirmative action and healthcare, highlighting the need for evidence-based solutions.
Giorgia Gri, a Wistar Institute visiting scientist, has received a $25,000 fellowship award from the American-Italian Cancer Foundation to study the regulation of Interleukin-12 receptor b2 chain expression. Her research aims to develop safer and more effective IL-12 therapies against cancer.
A University of Florida study suggests that believing in one's ability to improve memory can significantly impact memory performance. The research found that older adults who accepted the idea that their memory could be improved were more likely to use effective strategies, leading to better memory outcomes.
A University of Florida neuroscientist has discovered a mutant gene in chickens that helps researchers better understand a rare human eye disease called Leber's congenital amaurosis type I. The chicken model is being used to develop a form of gene therapy for treating the disease, which affects 100,000 to 200,000 people worldwide.
A recent study found that black teen-agers with severe asthma are three times more likely to be steroid-resistant compared to their white counterparts. The study also revealed that children with steroid-resistant asthma are more likely to be African-American and require larger amounts of oral steroids.
Scientists have discovered that interleukin-12 (IL-12) can trigger the production of a protein called interferon-gamma (IFN-), which blocks tumor-induced angiogenesis. This finding suggests that tumor cells may be able to produce their own antiangiogenic elements, potentially leading to new cancer therapies.
Researchers have found a new class of isotope fractionation effects that violate the simple rule of mass dependency. The discovery was made in an effort to explain anomalous excesses of oxygen-17 in atmospheric CO, which has been observed at various air monitoring stations.
A new University of Michigan study suggests that Health Maintenance Organizations (HMOs) in California are doing a better job of selecting high-quality hospitals for their patients. In the study, researchers found that HMO enrollees were more likely to receive care from above-average hospitals compared to those with other insurance plans.
A researcher found that cognitive behavioral psychotherapies effectively treat various traumatic events, reducing intrusive thoughts, avoidance behaviors, and symptoms of anxiety and depression. Long-lasting benefits were also observed in studies following participants after treatment.
Researchers have discovered a new gene mutation associated with late-onset Alzheimer's disease, which interacts with other Alzheimer's genes and proteins. The A2M protein plays a crucial role in breaking down toxic amyloid plaques, suggesting a potential target for drug development to prevent or treat the disease.
A rapidly spinning neutron star, SAX J1808.4-3658, is providing proof for the theory that millisecond pulsars are propelled to mind-boggling speeds by accretion of material from a companion star. This discovery fills an important niche in our understanding of star evolution.
Research at The Jackson Laboratory reveals the Lunatic fringe gene's essential role in regulating somite formation during embryonic development. Notch signaling pathway disruption leads to segmental body plan implementation challenges in mammals and other organisms.
A new international study analyzed fat samples from 642 European women, finding no protective effect of oleic acid on breast cancer risk. Higher weight and family history were strong associations with breast cancer among participants.
Researchers at the University of Hawaii report breaking ground in mammalian cloning by creating reproducible clones from adult cells, with implications for pharmaceuticals and disease research. The 'Honolulu technique' has yielded three generations of identical cloned mice, opening doors to new avenues in genetic engineering.
Scientists have gained a clearer picture of massive volcanic eruptions by analyzing lava composition, indicating that the lava originated from the lower mantle. The findings suggest that the eruptions played a role in the greatest mass extinction event in Earth's history, wiping out up to 95% of plant and animal species.
Scientists at Sandia National Laboratories and UNM develop a rapid method to self-assemble diverse materials into coatings mimicking seashell structures. The coating process creates tough, strong, optically transparent coatings suitable for automotive finishes, optical lenses, and other applications.
University of Wisconsin Medical School researchers found that two connected brain structures control the way light affects rodent sleep activity, separate from the biological clock. The structures are part of the visual system and can override normal circadian rhythms with acute lighting changes.
Medicines commonly used to treat epilepsy appear effective in soothing agitation in people with Alzheimer's disease, a symptom affecting nearly all patients. The findings suggest these compounds may be as good as or better than current treatments for agitation, promising relief for families and caregivers.
The image clearly demonstrates the principle behind UHIPP, showing how natural and manmade surfaces affect city temperatures. Urban forests are crucial in keeping cities cool, according to Dr. Jeff Luvall, and streamside vegetation has a cooling effect as streams flow from mountains.
A recent study found that the prevalence of U.S. infants being placed to sleep on their stomachs has dropped by 66% since 1992, resulting in a 38% decrease in SIDS deaths. Despite this progress, Black infants remain at higher risk for prone sleeping and associated SIDS deaths.
The University of California - San Francisco will establish the country's first formally funded training program for hospitalists, thanks to a $712,000 grant from the Josiah Macy, Jr. Foundation. The program aims to develop skilled and efficient clinicians who can lead quality care in hospitals.
Mutations in the beta-catenin gene are frequent in hepatocellular carcinoma, a type of liver cancer. The study found that about 50% of tumors in transgenic mice contained these mutations, and 26% of human liver cancer samples also had similar genetic alterations.
A new NASA-funded research center at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute will investigate the origin of life, starting with stardust and organic molecules formed in interstellar space. The center's interdisciplinary team will explore two hypotheses on the formation of life's building blocks.
A shellfish toxin study has discovered a mechanism that may help treat cystic fibrosis by stimulating fluid flow through protein phosphatase inhibition. This could lead to loosening of accumulated mucus in the lungs and gut, reducing bacterial infections and early death.
A Colorado State University study found that irrigated agricultural crops and landscaping can produce local cooling, potentially exceeding global warming predictions. This leads to cooler temperatures, increased moisture, and altered tree distribution patterns in Rocky Mountain National Park.
Pacific Northwest researchers have developed In-Situ Redox Manipulation (ISRM) to remove deadly contaminants from groundwater. ISRM has been shown to be effective in removing chromate, technetium, and chlorinated solvents at levels below drinking water standards.
Research found that spices can inhibit the growth of E. coli O157:H7 in ground meat and salami, with garlic showing the highest effectiveness. While spices may not eliminate the pathogen, they could add an extra layer of safety to food handling and cooking.
Researchers have developed a method to multiply and mature neural stem cells in the lab, which can form dopamine-producing neurons and reduce symptoms in an animal model of Parkinson's disease. The study opens up new opportunities for studying brain development and may lead to the creation of easily controlled stem cell therapies.
The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) is hosting a two-day national conference to discuss the latest scientific research on nicotine addiction. The conference will highlight the behavioral and neurobiological bases of nicotine addiction, as well as state-of-the-art treatment strategies and prevention methods.
Scientists discuss ways to use lightweight materials like hydrogen, boron, and lithium for radiation shielding. Researchers also explore using composites and polyamide binders for efficient protection against space radiation.
Researchers at Penn State found that sex hormones have little effect on adolescent sexual behavior after a nearly two-year study. Social factors like peer pressure are believed to have a much larger impact on behavior.
Researchers found that HIV establishes a pool of latently infected immune system cells even with early treatment. These cells can persist for years, posing an obstacle to ultimate control and eradication of the virus. The study suggests that these reservoirs are established very early in infection.
Scientists have identified SLP-76 as a critical protein for the development and activation of T cells, an essential part of the immune system. This finding provides valuable insights into the basic biology of immune system activation, which is crucial for understanding immunodeficiency disorders and autoimmune diseases.
Researchers successfully isolated intact DNA from giant sloth droppings, providing insight into its diet and habits. The discovery uses a novel molecular-palaeontologic method to analyze the chemical reaction that protects DNA in dried dung.
A study by Dr. Barry Bayus found that PC product lifespans have not accelerated over time, contradicting conventional wisdom. Despite rapid innovation, manufacturers have maintained consistent product lifecycles within their lines, suggesting a balanced approach to strategy and R&D investment.
Researchers are identifying the gene that causes Alström Syndrome, a recessive genetic disorder causing blindness, hearing loss, and other conditions. By studying DNA samples from living individuals and their families, they hope to find the gene's location and develop an animal model for the disease.
Researchers found that combining low doses of angiostatin with standard radiation therapy improves response rates without increasing toxicity. The combination causes significant growth inhibition in animal models, even in mice with large tumors.
Scientists have sequenced the complete genome of Treponema pallidum, the syphilis bacterium, providing critical information for developing diagnostic tests, treatments, and vaccines. The genetic blueprint reveals targets for new antibiotics and surface proteins that could stimulate an immune response in experimental vaccines.
Researchers at NASA have developed innovative methods to study molten metals in space, including electrodes and magnets to measure fluid flows and dendrite growth. These techniques will help improve manufacturing processes on Earth by understanding subtle phenomena affected by gravity.
A meta-analysis of 19 drug studies involving 2,318 patients suggests that three-quarters of the beneficial effect of anti-depressant medications can be attributed to the placebo effect. The remaining 25 percent may be due to side effects of the medication.
Researchers aim to prove robotic planes can operate autonomously over the Atlantic Ocean, improving weather forecasting. The autonomous aircraft will gather meteorological data for improved forecast accuracy and potentially detect severe weather.