Scientists are modifying bee venom to develop cancer treatments with fewer side effects than traditional drugs. The goal is to create immunotoxins that target cancer cells specifically, overcoming major drawbacks of chemotherapy.
Scientists have confirmed that a protein complex, when defective, causes limb girdle muscular dystrophy. Researchers developed a cell culture system to mimic the defect and found that complete assembly of the sarcoglycan complex is dependent on simultaneous synthesis of all four sarcoglycans.
A Johns Hopkins-led study shows that many heart disease features are better explained by the body's responses to genetic damage rather than the damage itself. The research used a miniaturized catheter to compare healthy and diseased mouse hearts, revealing evolving adaptations that worsen symptoms over time.
Researchers at Ohio University have discovered a unique retrovirus linked to skin tumors in walleye, which shares similarities with human cyclin D1. The study reveals that the presence of a specific mRNA precedes protein production, potentially leading to tumor cell death.
Researchers at Ohio University develop a new way to measure reading and listening comprehension in brain injury victims by tracking their eye movements. The technique, which shows promise in spotting hidden understanding, is more effective than traditional methods.
Researchers found no link between M74 and environmental pollutants, but suspect complex interacting factors in the Baltic Sea. Precautionary treatment with Vitamin B1 reduces mortality in salmon hatcheries.
Researchers found that dominant men and women exhibit high cardiovascular reactivity when interacting with others, responding to gender norms. In mixed-gender situations, dominant women deactive their traits, while dominant men respond to male gender role norms.
The nuclear pore complex is a highly regulated structure composed of around 50-100 different proteins that control the transport of macromolecules between the nucleus and cytoplasm. Ran protein plays a crucial role in this process, binding selectively to transport factors to regulate cargo molecules across the nuclear pore.
A multidisciplinary team of specialists reduced episodes of delirium by 9.9% compared to standard hospital care, with benefits also seen in improved cognition, mobility, and hearing. The program targeted risk factors such as cognitive impairment, sleep deprivation, and immobility.
Researchers found that the 20th century warming counters a 1,000-year-long cooling trend and reversed a medieval warming period. Temperatures in the latter half of the 20th century were unprecedented, with human-induced greenhouse gases being a major factor.
MIT researchers have created a sensory tabletop that can track hand movements in three dimensions, allowing for new interactive technologies. The table uses electrodes to detect tiny currents generated by the user's hand, which are then used to calculate the hand's position in 3D space.
Astronomers have obtained the clearest view yet of the center of the Andromeda galaxy, revealing a double nucleus that has long puzzled scientists. The study uses new Hubble images to map the orbital motions of stars around the black hole at the galaxy's core.
A University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill study reveals that dopamine plays an early central role in pleasure but another chemical like serotonin is actually responsible for the sensation. Researchers believe this discovery could lead to better explanations for substance abuse and addiction, as well as new treatments.
Researchers have identified two genetic mutations as the cause of megaloblastic anemia 1, a rare disease affecting vitamin B-12 absorption. The disease is exceedingly rare, occurring in only one person in a million, but can be fatal if left untreated.
Recent studies indicate that electronic transmitters used by off-piste skiers to locate buried victims are ineffective due to limited range and prolonged rescue times. The signals only carry up to 50 meters and professional skiers take an average of 18 minutes to reach their companions, resulting in a low survival rate.
Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center found PENS to be significantly more effective in decreasing pain scores after each treatment than other methods, improving quality of life for patients with severe lower back pain. Following 12 treatments, patients reported increased physical activity and improved sleep.
The Wistar Institute hosted a symposium on regenerative biology, featuring experts discussing recent advances in understanding regeneration in metazoans, stem cells, and nervous systems. Key findings included insights into limb regeneration, spinal cord repair, and muscle cell replacement.
The Boston University TERRIERS team is gearing up to launch a satellite designed to produce unprecedented three-dimensional images of the ionosphere. The satellite will enable scientists to better predict space weather conditions that can disrupt communication systems on Earth.
Ohio University researchers are producing precise measurements of neutron direction and speed to develop a new cancer treatment. This technology could lead to fewer side effects and more effective treatment options for patients.
Researchers have discovered motion along the southern portion of the boundary between the west African (Nubian) and east African (Somalian) plates. The finding helps geologists understand how the East African rift fits into plate tectonics, improving global models for predicting India-Eurasia collision.
The survey shows strong support for indexing the retirement age to increases in life expectancy. However, actuaries opposed individual accounts and favored limiting investment choices if enacted. Most respondents disagreed with adjusting benefits based on retiree-to-worker ratio.
Researchers discovered a genetic mutation responsible for a rare form of treatable dwarfism, affecting 105 family members in northeastern Brazil. The study suggests the mutation could be used as a prenatal screening test for the disorder.
Decentralized energy technologies, such as solar and wind power, are being implemented in developing countries to address electricity shortages. The symposium aims to discuss recent developments and barriers to the wider adoption of renewable energy sources.
Researchers discovered Wnt-4's role in regulating kidney development through inducing tubulogenesis in isolated mesenchyme. Additionally, Wnt-4 suppresses male cell fates in female embryos, affecting sex organ differentiation. It also mediates tissue interactions involved in neuronal growth and axonal guidance.
Researchers at HHMI and Stanford University have developed a new method to engineer drug molecules that bind more effectively to their targets. By attaching small molecule inhibitors to larger proteins, the team increased the binding affinity of the inhibitor, making it easier to inhibit protein-protein interactions.
A new type of degradable polyethene, SPI-TEK, breaks down in five years and allows other organic materials to decompose, increasing landfill site capacity. Bayer is also testing a new 100% degradable polyester suitable for industrial production in agriculture and food sectors.
A University of Michigan cancer vaccine combination with interleukin-2 was found to be effective in mobilizing the immune system to attack and destroy malignant cells. Eighty percent of mice showed complete regression of their tumors after treatment.
A new technology using coated alumina could reduce emissions from small sources, such as industrial boilers and lawn mowers. The technique removes 95% of nitrogen oxides under conditions similar to combustion exhaust.
Researchers found that contaminants can have very little impact on the physical properties of plastics, allowing for more functional products to be made from recycled materials. This could increase production of recycled plastic products like car bumpers and street furniture.
The new high-strength, ultra-thin steels are being tested for endurance on life-size testing rigs to simulate 40,000km of rocky road driving. The materials range in thickness from 0.7 to 2 mm and have improved fatigue properties.
Researchers have found a secondary barrier in the brain that prevents certain drugs from reaching tumors and neurological disorders. The barrier is called the basement membrane and traps stealth agents while allowing others to pass through, highlighting challenges for gene therapy and drug delivery.
A University of Michigan study found that seniors who volunteer for less than an hour a week are more likely to live longer. The study analyzed data from 1,211 older adults and discovered that volunteering is directly associated with increased survival rates, rather than just being a result of better health.
A study by Johns Hopkins Medicine reveals that nearly 90% of prostate cancers are linked to a common genetic process called 'gene switching,' which can be reversed with drugs. This finding has the potential to correct one of the most common cancers in men without using typical gene therapy.
Researchers link Fas and FasL interaction to immune-privilege in the eye, affecting age-related macular degeneration. Deficiency of Fas or FasL leads to increased growth of new retinal vessels.
Researchers at Sandia National Laboratories have developed a decontamination foam that can neutralize chemical and biological agents in minutes. The foam, called Decon Foam 100, is made from ordinary household products and could be dispensed immediately after an attack, even before evacuating casualties.
Physicists at Fermilab's KTeV experiment report a large and unexpected direct CP violation, ruling out the Superweak Theory. The finding exceeds previous expectations, raising questions about its accommodation within the Standard Model.
A genome scan identified regions on chromosomes 2, 4, 10, 16, 17 and 18 that may contain genes influencing nicotine dependence. The study used two independent samples, with limited replication in several regions suggesting further investigation is warranted.
A new automobile exhaust system reduces pollution and boosts engine power at the same time. The design increases overall engine performance by 5 percent while also cutting emissions by 15 percent, making it a significant improvement over standard auto exhaust assemblies.
A computer model developed by Jay Rubinstein suggests that increasing the signal pulses from external processors can produce more independent neuron activity, similar to natural acoustic stimulation. This breakthrough could lead to substantial improvements in all types of sound coding for people with cochlear implants.
Researchers found a link between fruit fly gene variations and mood disorders in males, but not females. The study suggests the human homologue of the white gene may play a role in controlling mood and anxiety.
African American and Mexican American adults have lower serum and red cell folates compared to white adults. This disparity underscores the importance of improving dietary habits and folate supplements among these populations. Lower folate levels are a risk factor for neural tube defects in offspring and potentially other diseases.
Scientists experiment with materials in space to study structure, properties and processing methods. These experiments have led to new understanding of semi-conductors, metallic-electronic crystals and improved X-ray and infrared sensors.
U.C. San Diego researchers successfully trapped non-neutral plasma using a combination of electric and magnetic fields, forming novel vortex crystals when cooled. This breakthrough may hold the key to creating anti-hydrogen, quantum computing, and advanced atomic clocks.
A recent study by Ohio State University researchers found that obese Black teenagers have a significantly higher risk of developing type II diabetes as adults compared to their white counterparts. The study highlights the need for early aggressive weight management in Black teens, given racial and ethnic differences in glucose metabolism.
A study of 203 children with medulloblastoma found that a tried-and-true chemotherapy protocol provides better results than a newer method, while the quality of neurosurgery also affects long-term survival rates. The ability to remove nearly all of the tumor is critical for improved outcomes.
A new superconducting device detects single light quanta at wavelengths longer than previously possible, detecting 25 billion photons per second. The device is capable of detecting changes in light level and has small size, making it a candidate for a superconducting computer input component.
The new gradiometer has the potential to revolutionize submarine navigation and underground structure detection, offering improved accuracy and reduced costs. Its commercial applications include geophysical mineral exploration and archaeological studies, enhancing our understanding of hidden pathways and structures.
Researchers at UNC Chapel Hill discovered molecular changes in nerve cells that may play a role in causalgia, a painful medical syndrome. The study found that nerve fibers affected by injury become supersensitive to norepinephrine, leading to persistent burning pain.
Researchers found that changes in the brain characteristic of Alzheimer's disease begin years before clinical symptoms like memory loss. The study used brain tissue from over 60 subjects, including healthy individuals and those with dementia, to identify amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary tangles.
The Office of Naval Research has developed proprietary technology to improve hearing protection devices for service personnel exposed to high-level noise. The composite material absorbs acoustical energy more effectively, resulting in better-fitting and more effective ear-protection devices.
Scientists from around the world collaborated to develop improved atmospheric aerosol models for predicting infrared propagation in coastal environments. The project aims to enhance sensor accuracy for detecting incoming threats such as missiles and submarine periscopes.
A 12-year study of nearly 600 children found that interventions targeting teachers, parents, and children in elementary school significantly reduced violent behavior, heavy drinking, and sexual activity, while improving school performance. The program had long-lasting effects through age 18.
Research suggests that infrared thermometers can accurately measure newborn temperatures, especially after feeding and before transferring to cribs. However, using these devices on older infants may not yield accurate results.
New research suggests that increased Arctic temperatures due to global warming can lead to higher levels of carbon dioxide emissions, fueling global warming further. The study found that artificially elevating summer temperatures in arctic tundra resulted in significant losses of carbon dioxide from the soil.
A study found 10-year syphilis rates in counties bordering I-95 were 2.38 times higher than those not bordering the highway. Drug trafficking significantly contributed to the contagion.
A study of 129 children and their parents found that adolescent girls are more helpful and affectionate towards their parents. The quality of the parent-child relationship plays a significant role in determining the level of affection and helpfulness displayed by adolescents.
The Office of Naval Research has developed a system that uses complex mathematical steps to filter out unwanted material in surveillance images and locate land mines. This new technology can find above-ground mines in an aerial picture in less than a minute, producing results superior to existing systems.
A large study found that cardiorespiratory fitness was associated with a lower risk of death from all causes, regardless of body fatness. The researchers suggest that fitness may be more important than being lean for reducing obesity and mortality risk.
African Americans are less likely to visit the dentist for routine visits due to lack of money and dental insurance. The study found that 13% of African Americans had never visited a dentist, compared to 1% of whites.
A study suggests that an imbalance in genes expressed on the X chromosome may lead to ovarian cancer development. The research found nonrandom X-chromosome inactivation in over 50% of women with invasive ovarian cancer, particularly those with BRCA1 mutations.