Researchers at Duke University have identified 31 genes that react to cadmium exposure, including 22 previously unknown genes. These findings offer new insights into the toxic effects of cadmium and potential biomarkers for monitoring contamination.
Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center have identified a mutation that prevents sperm maturation in mice, which could lead to treatments for male sterility and development of new male contraceptives. The morc gene is expressed only in males during the earliest stages of sperm production.
Researchers found that rats fed high amounts of fructose for a year showed age-related alterations in their skin and bone collagen. Fructose consumption may decrease glucose tolerance, increase insulin resistance, and speed up glycation, contributing to aging processes.
Researchers identified five common 'warning signals' of depression: less enjoyment from activities, self-disappointment, hopelessness, irritability, and difficulty sleeping. These symptoms were reported by at least 90% of the sample, and women reported self-disappointment with the greatest frequency.
Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center discovered that vitamin E can prevent the early stages of plaque formation by inhibiting the attachment of white blood cells to endothelial cells. Vitamin E's antioxidant properties help reduce the risk of atherosclerosis, or hardening of the arteries.
The new detection system, developed by Dr. Gregg Henderson and his team, samples the air in building walls to analyze for termites' unique gases. Early detection could prevent significant damage, saving homeowners millions annually.
A Norwegian study found that depressed men with congestive heart failure are more likely to perceive themselves as physically limited, even if their physicians rate them highly. In contrast, women with the condition tend to have a more realistic assessment of their abilities.
A low-protein diet boosts thermogenesis, releasing excess energy as heat rather than storing it as fat. This results in reduced body weight gain and increased exercise motivation.
Researchers found a clear difference in brain activation between boys with ADD and those without, specifically in the striatal region involved in motor control. Ritalin improved impulse control in both groups but had different effects on brain activity in those with and without ADD.
A study found that despite high awareness of chest pain as a heart attack symptom, many people are unaware of other critical symptoms like arm numbness and shortness of breath. The research highlights the need for targeted education about complex heart attack symptoms to reduce delay in seeking medical care.
Scientists have identified a specific gene, the AH receptor, as a vital link in the chemical cascade that causes cancer when exposed to cigarette smoke. The study found that mice without this receptor showed no damage from cigarette smoke, suggesting it plays a crucial role in controlling gene damage.
Young children who lose a parent or experience poor family relationships may be more likely to develop increases in blood pressure and disruptions in hormone release later in life. Research suggests that early loss or lack of good quality family relationships may have a 'permanently' increased overall cardiovascular activity among adults.
Researchers found that heart patients with high levels of social support show fewer symptoms of depression, while those with low social support tend to have higher levels of depression. Interventions that decrease hostility and increase social support may also benefit heart disease patients.
A large longitudinal study found that job strain is a significant risk factor for high blood pressure and heart disease. Men with highly demanding jobs experience higher blood pressure, while those who move to less demanding roles see their blood pressure decrease over time.
A study of nearly 4,000 young adults found that smoking has a negligible effect on body weight, contrary to the tobacco industry's claims. Smoking cessation, however, is associated with significant long-term weight gain.
The Virginia Tech research group has developed new dimethacrylate monomers that can be used to create dental fillings with improved mechanical properties and reduced water absorption. The new materials require only one step of photopolymerization to harden, resulting in longer-lasting fillings and faster processing times.
Scientists have identified a close evolutionary connection between the photosynthetic reaction centre of bacteria and that of higher plants. Photosystem II in plants is a multi-enzyme complex comprising over 25 different proteins, which work together to convert sunlight into biochemical energy.
Researchers at the University of Chicago have discovered a gene that causes male progeny of two recently separated species to be sterile, hinting at an early indicator of speciation. The homeobox gene is evolving rapidly due to its role in controlling male sexual function, leading to sibling species incompatibility.
Researchers found that when E. coli attaches to the bladder lining, it triggers a natural defense mechanism where bladder cells commit suicide and slough off, but some bacteria can avoid being removed by invading deeper tissue. This could explain why patients experience recurrent bladder infections despite antibiotic treatment.
Researchers are testing a new painkiller to see if it can delay or prevent Alzheimer's disease. The study, involving 1,300 patients, targets the cycloxygenase-2 enzyme, which is believed to contribute to the development of the disease.
The US Energy Department has established a long-term climate research station on Nauru in the Central Pacific Ocean. The facility will collect data on the sun's energy transmission, absorption, and reflection in the tropics, focusing on cloud effects on heating and cooling the atmosphere.
Researchers have identified a previously unknown light-sensitive pigment in the eye, skin, and brain that regulates mammals' internal clocks. This discovery has significant implications for treating depression and reducing accidents during night work shifts, as it allows for better synchronization with daily cycles.
Researchers found that senior citizens rated rock music much higher on a loudness scale than younger people. As people age, their tolerance for loudness decreases due to common hearing loss conditions like presbycusis, which distorts certain sounds and makes low frequencies more noticeable.
Scientists at UCSC discovered the origin of the Hawaiian plume, a massive hot rock rising through the Earth and building islands for 80 million years. The research uses seismic waves to analyze the structure beneath Hawaii, revealing a localized transition from horizontal to vertical flow at the core-mantle boundary layer.
A study found that smoking-related illnesses and deaths have risen sharply in the US and France, with increased female smoking causing a steady increase in disease and mortality. The proportion of deaths attributable to cigarette smoking rose from 16.7% to 47.4% among American women.
The American Association of Pharmaceutical Scientists has recognized eight researchers with awards for their outstanding contributions to the field. Sung Wan Kim received the AAPS-Dale E. Wurster Research Award in Pharmaceutics for his work on controlled drug delivery systems, while Vincent H.L. Lee was honored with the Distinguished S...
Researchers have made a groundbreaking discovery of dinosaur embryos with fossilized skin, providing the first glimpse into the soft tissue covering baby dinosaurs. The ancient eggs were found to contain patches of delicate skin and tiny teeth, shedding light on the reproductive habits of giant plant-eating sauropods.
A new study by Emory researchers found that HIV patients treated with protease inhibitors are more likely to engage in risky sex, including inconsistent condom use. The study also reveals significant differences in condom use among men who had sex with men (MSM) and heterosexual men or women.
A team of researchers announces the discovery of thousands of eggs and dozens of unhatched dinosaur embryos containing fossilized skin, representing a number of scientific firsts. The embryos belong to giant plant-eating dinosaurs called sauropods and are found in the southern hemisphere.
A team of researchers has developed an electronic neural switch that mimics biological neural activity, paving the way for the creation of autonomous robots capable of thinking, learning, and seeking out new environments. The device uses nanoelectronic processors to transmit signals similar to those from nerve cells, enabling it to pro...
A new study by the Swedish Environmental Protection Agency reveals that diesel cars emit significantly more nitrogen oxides, particulates, and carcinogenic substances than petrol-driven cars. This trend is counterproductive to achieving environmental goals for cleaner air and reduced acidification and eutrophication.
A recent study found that teenage girls who engaged in HIV-related sexual risk taking and were currently pregnant viewed more television programs depicting violence, women's abuse, or demeaning behavior. This suggests the need for TV networks to decrease violent content and promote healthy sexual behaviors.
A new study shows sertraline safely prevents depression recurrence in severe chronic sufferers. The drug extends remission time and protects against recurrence for patients with disabling psychological and social problems.
The study found that HIV prevalence rates declined by 60-70% from the mid-1980s to the present day, with the majority of participants identifying as gay. However, high-risk groups such as men of low socio-economic status, African-American, and injection drug users continue to have high levels of HIV infection.
Researchers found that rats born by Caesarean section showed marked differences in brain development compared to naturally born controls. They had altered dopamine systems and responses to stress tests. The findings hint at a potential link between Caesarean births and schizophrenia risk.
Researchers have developed a system to detect the formation of gallstones by monitoring the interactions between cholesterol and lecithin in artificial bile. The technique may help identify key enzymes that speed up or slow down gallstone growth, leading to new treatments for cardiovascular ailments and genetic disorders.
Maxygen's DNA shuffling technique has created ultra-efficient proteins and supergenes, including a potent interferon that is 285,000 times more effective than natural versions. The company has also developed superior enzymes with potential applications in industrial processes.
Researchers discovered that cells in the sensory cortex can sprout new axons and form connections with unimpaired areas of the brain, potentially allowing for recovery from stroke or injury. This newfound ability could lead to breakthroughs in treating brain disorders such as spinal cord injuries or stroke.
A comprehensive examination of 100 female statuettes carved in Europe between 30,000 and 20,000 years ago suggests they prioritized the health of mother and child during childbirth. The statuettes depict physical effects of pregnancy and show little evidence of long-term use.
Pat Shipman's book Taking Wing: Archaeopteryx and the Evolution of Bird Flight has received the 1998 Phi Beta Kappa Award in Science. The book explores the enigmatic fossil Archaeopteryx, whose anatomy combines birdlike and reptilian features, and its role in understanding how birds evolved flight.
The Azithromycin and Cardiac Events Study (ACES) investigates the role of Chlamydia pneumoniae in atherosclerosis. Researchers aim to determine if antibiotics can prevent complications of coronary artery disease, enrolling approximately 4,000 volunteers.
Researchers at Penn State have discovered specific compounds in garlic that lower cholesterol levels by inhibiting liver cell production. The study found three water-soluble sulfur-containing compounds that decreased cholesterol production in cultured rat liver cells by 40 to 60 percent, with potential implications for heart health.
A new UNC-CH study found that white children and those from low-income families take up smoking earlier, with 42% of third-graders experimenting with cigarettes by eighth grade. The research highlights the need for early smoking prevention classes and cessation programs in elementary and middle schools.
The Rosalind Russell New Arthritis Treatment Program at UCSF is testing innovative therapies targeting specific cells that promote inflammation and joint damage. Current clinical trials focus on rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus erythematosus, with promising results expected to lead to nationwide approval.
Scientists have uncovered a genetic cause for urinary tract disorders, linking GATA-2 protein to proper genitourinary tract development. The finding paves the way for diagnostic and treatment strategies for bladder and kidney disorders in newborns.
Researchers successfully revived bacteria extracted from ancient bees preserved in amber, opening up new possibilities for pharmaceuticals and industrial applications. Ancient plant specimens are also being studied to understand genetic evolution and identify potential biocontrol uses.
A study by Penn State researchers found that microwaving or roasting garlic can destroy its anti-cancer activity, unless the herb is chopped or crushed first. However, a 10-minute standing period allows an enzyme to react with chemicals, producing allyl sulfur compounds that retain anti-cancer properties.
A study found that IL-2 plus HAART treatment reduced the number of resting CD4+ T cells harboring HIV, making it harder for the virus to replicate. Researchers detected no replication-competent HIV in peripheral blood samples from patients treated with IL-2 plus HAART.
Despite long-standing guidelines recommending antibiotic prophylaxis for dental patients with cardiac valvular problems, a new study finds no association between dental procedures and the onset of endocarditis. The researchers suggest reconsidering current policies due to low incidence and potential risks associated with antibiotics.
A study found that inhaled zanamivir significantly reduces the time to recover from influenza symptoms by up to one-third and complications by 71% in high-risk patients. It also showed faster return to normal activities and better health status scores compared to placebo.
A five-year study aims to define long-term issues and positive growth in bone marrow transplant survivors, while evaluating factors that impact their survival and quality of life. Researchers will assess physical and psychological health, neuropsychological changes, and menopausal symptoms in over 200 participants.
A clinical trial testing Azithromycin's effectiveness in preventing recurrent heart attacks found a promising link between the antibiotic and reduced inflammation. Researchers aim to determine if treating patients with Azithromycin for five days after an initial heart attack can prevent future heart attacks.
Researchers found that polyunsaturated fat in vegetable oil may lead to less hardening of arteries than monounsaturated fat in olive oil. The grant renewal supports studies on the effects of dietary fat type on high-density lipoprotein (HDL) levels and coronary artery disease.
A new species of spinosaurid dinosaur, Suchomimus tenerensis, is discovered in the Ténéré Desert with a long, narrow, crocodile-like skull. The fossil remains suggest that this predator had curved claws like giant meathooks and was about 11 meters long.
A team of scientists has discovered a young and previously unknown supernova remnant located just 700 light years away from the Vela supernova remnant. The remnant is exceptionally close to Earth, with an age of at most 1500 years, making it the nearest supernova remnant to have occurred during recent human history.
A new University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill study reveals foreign-trained doctors are crucial in addressing rural physician shortages. States like Florida, West Virginia, North Dakota, and Illinois have the highest rate of international medical graduates practicing in rural areas, often in exchange for staying in the US.
Researchers at Brandeis University have induced a form of chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML) in mice, allowing them to study its molecular mechanisms and potential treatments. The breakthrough could lead to the development of new therapies for CML, which affects one-fifth of all leukemia patients.
Researchers at UNC Chapel Hill link severe premenstrual syndrome to childhood trauma, finding 50-60% of women with PMDD have histories of abuse. The study also reveals physiological abnormalities in the stress response system of women with PMDD.
Researchers have discovered plant glutamate receptors, which work similarly to human receptors in the brain. This finding suggests that plants possess a signaling system for neurotransmitters, enabling potential use as a model system to study neurological functions.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins University and Bell Labs have found clues that subvert the natural law of thermal expansion, suggesting the possibility of creating composite materials that actually shrink under heat. This discovery could lead to significant advancements in various fields, including computing and telecommunications.