Purdue researchers successfully restored electrical nerve impulses in severed spinal cords by applying a non-toxic polymer, PEG. The technique, called fusion technology, repairs damaged nerve cells and enables some impulses to reach the other end of the cord in up to 58% of cases.
The Carnegie/Brookhaven team successfully directed interconversions of enzymes that modify plant fatty acids, revealing the chemical mechanisms responsible for their diversity. They achieved this through making as few as six amino acid changes, paving the way for the creation of novel synthetic enzymes.
Researchers at Brookhaven National Laboratory and Carnegie Institution successfully changed a plant enzyme's function by tweaking its structure, advancing prospects for 'designer' plants and novel oils. The breakthrough sheds light on how plant enzymes evolved to perform different functions.
Researchers found that invasive non-native plants compete with native species for regeneration opportunities, inhibiting native tree seedlings and juveniles. Invasive species exhibit similar ecological roles as natives, posing a threat to conservation efforts.
Researchers found a SEX-1 hormone receptor signal in C. elegans that helps determine sex by counting X chromosomes, similar to the human Dax1 gene.
Using nebulizers to deliver glucocorticoid medication is effective in treating asthma in children, but long-term use can suppress growth, recommends Dr. Stanley J. Szefler of National Jewish Health. A new study suggests caution when prescribing glucocorticoids for children under 5 years old.
Researchers at Cornell University have discovered the three-dimensional structure of a protein that helps build new blood vessels, feeding cancerous tumors. This understanding may lead to more effective anti-cancer drugs with fewer side effects.
Bruce Marsh's groundbreaking discovery in Antarctica reveals a network of interconnected vertical columns with crystalline mush, overturning a long-held concept. This new understanding is being carefully laid out methodically and precisely, promising to reshape the discipline of magmatism.
Yale researchers develop a hypothesis linking rock metamorphism and earthquake generation. They show that rapid release of water from rocks within fault zones can lead to high internal fluid pressures, decreased rock strength, and induced rock failure, potentially triggering repeated earthquakes.
Protein folding research is undergoing explosive growth, revealing secrets of spontaneous self-assembly process, according to an editorial by Jay Winkler and Harry Gray. The study focuses on chemical kinetics and includes real-time observations, advancing efforts to design new drugs and decode genetic information.
A team of scientists found that a single gene with two vital functions can lead to missing roles, highlighting the complexity of mammalian fetal development. GATA-2 expression was previously thought to only control blood cell formation but is now known to have additional roles in the genitourinary system.
Researchers used virtual reality to visualize the Earth's electromagnetic tail, a challenging problem for astrophysicists. They discovered that charged particles follow a moebius strip path, which they confirmed using 3D imaging equipment.
Researchers have discovered a protein, gephyrin, crucial for central nervous system synapse development and molybdenum utilization. The absence of this protein leads to symptoms similar to human diseases, including stiff baby syndrome and molybdenum cofactor deficiency.
Researchers found that regular multi-vitamin use and long-term hormone replacement therapy can lower homocysteine levels in the blood, potentially reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease. The study tracked 353 men and women with varying levels of homocysteine, revealing significant differences in levels among participants.
Emory University researchers suggest that high estradiol levels increase MPO, which oxidizes LDL and clears it via the liver. This mechanism may explain estradiol's protective effects on cardiovascular disease.
Researchers at UNC Chapel Hill have developed a novel solid-state metal sensor that can accurately measure the acidity of chemical solutions, including body fluids. The electrode may help predict cardiac muscle ischemia and offer advance warning for potential heart attacks.
Researchers propose that an inactive enzyme may contribute to memory impairment in Alzheimer's patients. A transgenic mouse study found impaired memory in animals lacking the enzyme MMP-9, supporting the idea that its inactivity plays a role in the disease.
A study of 22,454 patients found that most deaths occurred in the first two hospital days, suggesting that extended stays may not provide additional benefits. Hospitals could optimize patient care by providing necessary procedures within three days without compromising quality.
Researchers found genes encoding for glutamate receptors in plants, indicating a common cell-to-cell communication system between plants and animals. This discovery may explain why certain plants produce neuroactive compounds that activate human brain receptors.
A recent study by the American Heart Association found that women with heart disease are more likely to experience chest pain during mental stress. The study tested the effects of psychological stress on ischemic heart disease and found that heart rates increased twice as much among participants who reported chest pain.
BioStratum's gene-attenuated virus vaccines protect macaque monkeys against HIV-1-based viruses. The study demonstrates the efficacy of two vaccines in preventing AIDS development in 11 out of 12 monkeys.
Researchers found that dissolved humic material can bind radionuclides, speeding contaminant migration. This process has significant implications for existing and future waste facilities, as low levels of humics in groundwater can facilitate transport.
Researchers found a strong association between leg length discrepancies of two centimeters or more and an increased risk of knee arthritis by up to 70 percent. Simple adjustments, such as special shoes or exercises, could help prevent or slow progression of osteoarthritis in millions of people.
The new guidelines provide recommendations for diagnosing and treating heart valve disease, covering common disorders such as mitral valve prolapse and aortic stenosis. It also addresses rare ailments, provides advice on evaluating and treating adults, teens, and pregnant women with defective valves.
A large clinical trial found that amlodipine, a calcium channel blocker, did not prevent the progression of coronary artery atherosclerosis but slowed it in the carotid arteries. Amlodipine significantly reduced angina pectoris and related procedures like bypass surgery.
Penn physicians developed clinical guidelines for herbal therapies, emphasizing the importance of understanding herbal agents' properties and potential risks. The guidelines caution against using certain herbal products, especially those with toxic effects, and recommend discussing risks and benefits with patients.
A recent study found that almost three in five smokers who undergo heart surgery continue to smoke after their procedure. Researchers examined 1,829 individuals who had bypass surgery or angioplasty and found that younger patients, African Americans, and those with a prior history of heart attack were more likely to be 'die-hard' smokers.
Researchers at Virginia Tech successfully cultivated pharmaceutical-producing tobacco, with the goal of producing human proteins for use in pharmaceuticals. The high-density plant cultivation method produced encouraging data and demonstrated flexibility in tobacco varieties.
Researchers at Emory University found that vitamin E supplementation decreased autoantibodies associated with oxidation of lipoproteins in healthy women. The study suggests that antioxidants like vitamin E may help attenuate oxidation and reduce the risk of atherosclerosis.
The Johns Hopkins University engineering graduate student created a website to address questions on the impact of climate change on public health and policy makers' responses. The site provides research tools, links to experts, and raw data for researchers.
The study found that obesity significantly increases the risk of developing coronary heart disease, with risks rising from 35% for non-obese men to 46% for severely obese individuals. The expected lifetime costs of heart disease are also higher for obese individuals, ranging from $6,000 for mildly obese men to $16,400 for severely obes...
A survey of preschoolers found that those from smoke-free homes were less likely to want to smoke later in life. Children who saw pictures of smoking characters like Joe Camel incorrectly associated them with smoking, highlighting the influence of early exposure on attitudes towards smoking.
Research shows that caregivers with Alzheimer's disease are more likely to develop a high metabolic syndrome level, which increases the risk of heart attack and other health complications. Interventions such as exercise, psychological uplifts, and improved diet may help reduce stress and mitigate this risk.
A University of Pittsburgh study found that electron beam computed tomography (EBCT) can predict the development of heart disease in women with high accuracy. The test measures calcification in coronary arteries and aorta, indicating the presence of atherosclerosis.
Research found that men and women have distinct reactions to stressors, including disagreements and skill challenges. Husbands tend to respond more strongly to perceived threats to their status and power, while wives are more reactive to interpersonal conflicts and quality of interaction.
Sandia National Laboratories and Compaq have developed a system that sorts a terabyte of data in under 50 minutes, three times faster than the previous record. This achievement demonstrates the potential for fast and cost-effective data sorting, which can be used to identify patterns in large datasets.
Adding beta-blocker metoprolol to standard treatment for heart failure increases survival by about 35 percent, according to a large international study. The study, called Metoprolol CR/XL Randomized Intervention Trial in Heart Failure (Merit-HF), was conducted in the US and 13 other countries.
Researchers have developed a neurotrophic electrode that can be implanted in the brain to help paralyzed patients communicate through a computer. The system uses neural signals to drive a cursor on a screen, allowing patients to interact with their environment.
A study found that a gene called apolipoprotein E (apo)E influences blood cholesterol levels and predicts how much those levels are affected by weight gain, smoking, and other lifestyle factors. People with the apoE-2 variant have a beneficial cholesterol profile, but risk factors like smoking and obesity can negate this benefit.
A new study reveals that more than half of children consume excessive amounts of fat, leading to increased risk of cardiovascular disease. The study found that most children exceeded the recommended levels of total fat intake and also had inadequate consumption of desirable monounsaturated fats.
Drs. Jeremy Sugarman and Larry Burk argue that conventional clinicians have an ethical obligation to consider alternative medicine therapies, prioritizing patient autonomy, safety, and effectiveness. They emphasize the importance of respecting patients' choices while providing informed guidance.
A study has found that environmental stimuli can trigger neurochemical changes in the brain similar to those caused by cocaine use, leading to overwhelming cravings in recovering addicts. Dr. Leonard Howell's research suggests that a medication targeting the serotonin system may prevent such cravings.
A pilot study found that patient costs for care using perfusion imaging were almost half that of conventional treatment, with a threefold reduction in total hospital stay. This strategy can give emergency room physicians greater confidence in their decision-making, while also identifying patients who need further treatment.
A recent study by the American Heart Association found that physical activity significantly reduces the risk of stroke in individuals aged 45-64. Those who were more active at work had a 49% lower risk, while those with high levels of sports activity had a 23% reduced risk.
The University of Florida is part of a virtual Astrobiology Institute studying the origin and evolution of life in the galaxy. Chemists are searching for universal DNA features that could be found in potential Martian life, which may help overcome the difficulty of recognizing non-terrestrial life.
The NYU Computer Lab's ReaCT-ILP laboratory is working on eliminating the programming bottleneck in embedded systems by developing an optimizing compiler that regulates instruction timing. This technology, known as EPIC computing, aims to increase information processing power and precision in smart devices.
A new analysis of PURSUIT data reveals women in Latin America and Eastern Europe receive less aggressive cardiac treatment and have higher incidence of heart disease deaths compared to men in similar regions. In contrast, women and men in North America and Western Europe receive comparable treatment and outcomes.
Researchers found that elevated blood pressure is a strong predictor of changes in brain structure and related cognitive functioning. All participants showed declines in mental abilities over time, with higher blood pressures associated with greater declines, particularly for visual-spatial ability and speed of performance.
A University of Colorado at Boulder study found that rats who exercised regularly before stress exposure were protected against its suppressive effect on immune response. Regular exercise in moderation can help buffer the negative effects of stress on the immune system, according to the researcher.
A new University of Michigan study investigates the impact of tobacco litigation on public health policy, concluding that courts are not well-suited for adopting policy changes. The authors argue that building a moral and political case is essential to achieve tobacco control goals through legislative and regulatory processes.
Researchers at UCSF have found that DHEA can reverse the effects of Endothelin-1, a peptide elevated in most heart diseases, by dilating coronary arteries and increasing endothelial cell function. This study provides scientific credence to DHEA's potential benefits on cardiovascular health.
A new study finds that Enhanced External Counterpulsation (EECP) is effective in reducing angina in individuals with coronary artery disease. EECP, a non-invasive therapy, has been proven to improve exercise tolerance and reduce angina attacks, offering relief for patients who suffer from this condition.
A NASA-led panel aims to create a road map for science communication, considering new technologies and their impact. The Research/Road Map group will focus on adding value to scientific research and communicating findings to the public.
Researchers found that famous faces activate both sides of the brain, whereas unfamiliar faces only activate the right side. This suggests that paying attention to a person's name and face can improve memory recall.
The Advanced Composition Explorer (ACE) spacecraft is taking precautions to withstand the November 17 Leonid meteor storm, which could pose a risk due to its close proximity to the comet's wake. NASA technicians are adjusting the spacecraft's orientation and instruments to minimize damage from the massive cloud of Leonid particles.
Patients with congestive heart failure who exercised had higher survival rates after four years compared to those who did not, with a 92% versus 64% rate of survival. The study's findings support the potential benefits of exercise for patients with this condition and underscore the need for further research.
A study by Jane E. Freedman found that purple grape juice inhibits platelet aggregation, reducing blood clotting risk and improving cardiovascular health. The flavonoid quercetin was also shown to have antioxidant properties, preventing the inactivation of nitric oxide.
A study of 3359 twin pairs found that genes play a significant role in two behaviors contributing to compulsive gambling, with familial factors explaining 62% of the behavior. The researchers estimate that about half of these behaviors are genetically mediated, highlighting the importance of inherited factors in vulnerability to gambling.
Researchers found that administering the drug immediately improves patient outcomes and may alleviate the need for transfer to larger hospitals. The study's results support earlier use of eptifibatide in smaller community hospitals treating heart attack patients with unstable angina.
A study by U-M epidemiologists found that Americans living in cities with greater income disparities are more likely to die than those in cities with lower disparities. Researchers also examined the characteristics of individuals using emergency contraceptive pills and proposed a plan to improve home care efficiency.