Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center discovered that alpha-lipoic acid reduces oxidative stress and blood levels of bad cholesterol. The compound may improve blood-glucose control and has potential implications for aging and heart disease prevention.
Researchers at the University of Michigan have identified a key mechanism by which some viruses, including Kaposi's sarcoma-associated herpesvirus, can hide in human cells for extended periods. The study reveals that a protein called LANA binds to host chromosomes, allowing viral DNA to remain dormant until the immune system is weakened.
Jobaria tiguidensis, a 70-foot-long plant-eater from the Cretaceous period, has been discovered with nearly complete skeletons of an adult and juvenile. The species' unique spoon-shaped teeth and short neck set it apart from other sauropods.
A study by University of Washington researchers found that individuals with aggressive and low dependency personalities are at higher risk for recurrent major depression. The findings suggest that patients who enjoy activities and have moderate social support are less likely to relapse.
A team of scientists at CIIT published an up-to-date risk assessment for cancer from inhaled formaldehyde, integrating the latest mechanistic knowledge and incorporating a two-stage clonal growth model. The new model predicts lower risks for environmental and workplace exposures compared to earlier models.
Researchers are developing a new sandwich structure made from lightweight honeycomb core and curved composite panels, which can contribute to faster boats and fuel-efficient airliners. The key attribute of the material is its light weight, resulting from the honeycomb-like design of the inner core.
Researchers at NIAID have produced the first high-resolution genetic map of Plasmodium falciparum, the deadliest malaria parasite. The map provides a framework to accelerate genome sequencing efforts, enabling scientists to locate genes important for drug resistance and disease severity.
Dutch researchers use calculations to show that tubular-shaped vortices can form within areas of air turbulence, causing water droplets to congregate at the edge and leading to rain precipitation. This discovery contradicts previous assumptions about cloud formation and supersaturation.
Researchers are examining whether high doses of vitamin D can stop the progression or destroy prostate cancer. If successful, patients may be able to delay aggressive treatment and stay on the treatment indefinitely.
Yale researchers have created a new method to record electrical activities within living cells, providing insights into degenerative neurological diseases like Parkinson's. The technique, which allows scientists to study inaccessible parts of cells, has already led to findings on how neurons learn and remember.
Researchers discovered HIV can replicate in resting T cells, previously thought to be uninfected. The virus spreads quickly through activated T cells as well, but these infected cells are harder to reach with current therapies.
Researchers found that lower total cholesterol levels require only dietary changes, while higher levels necessitate medication. The combined strategies are effective in reducing cholesterol across all surveyed individuals, regardless of their initial cholesterol levels.
Despite rising numbers of female scientists, senior women researchers often experience isolation and frustration due to limited administrative power and respect from colleagues. A 'quiet revolution' is underway at institutions like MIT and Harvard as they address gender discrimination and promote women's careers.
Early findings from a national study suggest that many women with chest pain are being misdiagnosed due to minor coronary artery blockages. Researchers found that nearly one-fourth of women with 'normal' coronary arteries had detectable disease, increasing their risk of hospitalization and poor outcomes.
A team of scientists, including Montana State University's David Varricchio, discovered a wealth of information about skeletal changes in dinosaurs. The study found that some lineages remained relatively static for tens of millions of years, while others changed rapidly, providing new insights into dinosaur evolution.
A two-year study of 309 hypertensive urban African American men found that personalized care improved blood pressure control rates by an average of 39%. The team intervention showed a slightly higher improvement rate compared to the standard education and referral group.
Rainforest fragments experience 'edge effects' that hinder seed germination, with seeds being three to seven times less likely to sprout than those in continuous forests. Inbreeding can further reduce reproduction rates, threatening the survival of populations in forest fragments.
A study of 2,708 participants found that beta-blocker bucindolol did not reduce death from heart failure. The results contrast with other trials and raise questions about the use of beta-blockers in advanced heart failure.
A new study published in Neurology found that lamotrigine significantly reduces partial seizures and secondary generalized seizures in children. The medication has been proven safe and effective, allowing children to participate in daily activities without drowsiness.
Researchers at the University of Michigan have developed a new technique to accelerate ions, using a table-top laser instead of radio-frequency waves. The new technique accelerates ions in almost a million-times shorter distance than a cyclotron, potentially making ion accelerators more affordable and accessible for medical applications.
Omapatrilat, a vasopeptidase inhibitor, has been shown to improve cardiovascular function and reduce death rates and hospitalization for worsening heart failure. The drug may offer a potential breakthrough in treating congestive heart failure, which kills over 44,000 annually.
The U.S. National Science Board will hold an open session on November 18, where it plans to discuss its interim report on the environment and other key policy topics. The board will also present its strategic plan for NSF and hear from experts on nanoscience and engineering.
Researchers have created biodegradable hydrogels that can deliver medications, anchor biological tissues, and even serve as gene therapy carriers. The new materials have controlled release profiles and can be tailored to suit specific medication needs.
Researchers will study the psychological impact of diagnosis on self-esteem and relationships. The study aims to understand how people cope with the news and develop prevention strategies.
New research suggests that inhibiting tumor necrosis factor (TNF) may improve signs and symptoms of chronic heart failure. Studies using ENBREL, a TNF receptor inhibitor, have shown promising results in patients with moderate heart failure.
A long phone call led to a temporary vision loss and difficulty speaking in a French psychiatrist due to an unusually long styloid process. The patient's brain angiogram revealed a tear in the internal carotid artery, a common cause of strokes in young adults.
Ship emissions of nitrogen oxides can increase ozone concentrations by twofold and hydroxyl radical levels fivefold, resulting in a cooling effect on the atmosphere. This has significant implications for future international policy decisions regarding atmospheric change.
A six-year randomized study of 5,059 U.S. veterans found that taking one aspirin a day after a heart attack is as effective as combining it with an anti-clotting drug in reducing post-heart attack risk. The study recommends solo aspirin use due to its cost-effectiveness and lack of need for monitoring.
Researchers found that 40% of men with erectile dysfunction had significant blockages in heart arteries, which is associated with chest pain and an increased risk of heart attack. The study suggests that erectile dysfunction may be an early warning sign of potential heart problems due to atherosclerosis.
Researchers find that atoms in super-cooled metals exhibit clustered motion, a phenomenon crucial for understanding bulk metallic glasses with unique properties. This discovery has significant implications for various technical applications, including industry and military uses.
A traditional Chinese diet high in vegetables and green tea may be protective against heart disease. Researchers found that westernized Chinese individuals consumed more animal fats and dairy products than those who followed a traditional diet.
A new program, Seeding Postdoctoral Innovators in Research and Education (SPIRE), aims to improve career prospects for postdoctoral students by providing diverse training. The program will give postdocs teaching experience while offering cutting-edge biology courses at historically minority universities.
Researchers found that learning decreases brain variability, leading to improved perception and performance. Practice enhances sensitivity to relevant information, allowing individuals to identify faces and patterns more accurately.
A 6.5m telescope mirror is transported from the US to Chile's Atacama Desert, renowned for its stable and dry atmosphere, to conduct astronomical observations. The mirror will be installed as part of the Magellan Twin Telescope project at the Las Campanas Observatory, enabling studies of the Milky Way, star formation, and the universe.
A recent University of Maryland Medical Center study found that coenzyme Q10 has no detectable benefit in improving heart function or relieving symptoms for patients with congestive heart failure. The six-month study, involving 46 patients, showed no difference in heart function between those taking CoQ10 and a placebo.
A new cost analysis by Duke University Medical Center cardiologists suggests that selectively implanting stents in a more select group of patients could save the healthcare system up to $162 million annually. The study found that about 8% of patients wouldn't need a stent, achieving similar clinical success rates as stent insertion.
Two companies, GeneWorks and AviGenics, are developing genetically engineered chickens to produce human growth factor and interferon for treating diseases. The birds can produce up to 100 milligrams or more of a drug in each egg, making the yields lucrative.
The National Patient Safety Foundation has launched an initiative to reduce medication error risk, focusing on redesigning practices for safe medication use. Key findings include the need for broad cooperation across the healthcare system to improve pharmaceutical safety.
Researchers discovered a genetic cause of coronary artery spasm, a condition that causes chest pain or heart attack. The endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) gene mutation was prevalent in patients with the condition and also linked to increased risk in smokers.
Researchers found that the anti-hypertensive drug Losartan inhibited atherosclerosis development in monkeys by 50% compared to untreated controls. This suggests treating hypertension with Angiotensin II-blockers may slow or prevent atherosclerosis progression.
Researchers develop implants that amplify weak signals traveling along the spinal cord, potentially restoring coordinated movements in paralyzed individuals. Clinical trials are planned within two years to help people with spinal injuries stand and exercise their legs.
The study found that a gene called Tcr, which is transmitted at up to 95% from male carriers to their progeny, encodes a protein kinase likely to control sperm motility. This allows for the manipulation of transmission ratios and potentially exclusive fathering of female offspring in farm animals.
Researchers have developed a new robotic technique for performing coronary artery bypass surgery, which appears to be safe and effective. The procedure uses a small tubelike instrument and robotic arms to minimize scarring and promote faster recovery times.
A study found that spouses of heart attack patients share similar risk factors, including high body mass index and smoking habits. The researchers analyzed data from 170 couples and discovered that nearly 76% of couples were overweight or obese, with women being more likely to continue smoking after their partner's heart attack.
When a star swallows a planet, it can experience profound effects on its evolution, including changes in spin rate and emission of infrared radiation. The simulations show that large planets can survive for thousands of years before being vaporized by the heat, leaving behind tell-tale signs such as high lithium abundance.
Diane Trister Dodge emphasizes the importance of high-quality childcare in developing children's social competence. Good programs promote a sense of community and build relationships with families, while also acknowledging cognitive development.
Historians discovered that local landlords and castle owners wielded significant power until around 1150, forming a third power block alongside clergy and territorial princes. They found seven monasteries were founded within 15 years, based on reciprocal obligations between aristocracy and clergy, leading to social stability.
Researchers developed an interactive 'robot therapist' to aid stroke patients, showing significant improvements in shoulder and arm movement. Long-term recovery was also greater for those assisted by the robot, enabling simple tasks like pushing objects across a table.
Researchers at the University of Minnesota have developed miniature robots that can bounce, climb stairs and explore buildings. The robots can gather information via radio links and be deployed in groups to provide diverse perspectives on a situation.
New research on prehistoric stone tools in Colombia's tropics has found no correlation between tool shape and function. The study concluded that prehistoric people used their simple tools for various purposes, including hunting, butchering, and working wood, regardless of the tool's shape.
A Purdue University researcher has discovered a gene in fruit flies that plays a key role in regulating the flow of calcium into cells. Mutations in this gene suppress the effects of degeneration caused by overactive calcium channels, potentially leading to new treatments for diseases like Alzheimer's.
Researchers found that patients with more extreme daily mood swings experienced greater improvements in therapy outcomes, regardless of treatment type. This suggests that increasing patient sensitivity to stimuli may be a more effective approach than finding the best therapy for each individual.
Researchers are refining technologies to identify active genes in the central nervous system, accelerating understanding of diseases like Alzheimer's, depression, and schizophrenia. Two teams use distinct approaches: one detects proteins or RNA in intact neurons, while the other identifies genes involved in daily rhythms.
A study by University of Pittsburgh researcher Akira Sekikawa found a wide range of death rates across the US, with southern states having the highest CHD mortality rates. The researchers attributed these differences to variations in cigarette smoking and high school graduation rates among men aged 35-44.
Researchers found that exercise increases the growth of new nerve cells and improves long-term memory in adult mice. Mice exercising for one month showed a significant improvement in memory skills, with better recall times and increased neural activity compared to sedentary mice.
A recent study found that leisure physical activity buffers the effects of minor stress, but aerobic fitness does not. This suggests that exercise may help minimize stress-related symptoms by distracting from stressors or instilling a sense of accomplishment.
A new University of Michigan study found that nerve tests for carpal tunnel syndrome are not reliable and can produce different results depending on who performs the test. The study suggests using a continuous scale to evaluate test results rather than absolute cutoff points.
Researchers found that middle-aged women can avoid weight gain through increased physical activity and a low-fat, reduced-calorie dietary pattern. The five-year study showed significant reductions in weight gain and waist circumference among those who participated in the lifestyle intervention program.
The Climate Impacts Group at the University of Washington predicts significant climate changes in the NW region by 2050, including warmer temperatures, wetter winters, and shrinking snowpack. The report highlights the need for regional water management and planning to mitigate these impacts.
Researchers discovered that humans carry a snippet of DNA resembling an HIV gene sequence, known as HERV-K, which has been present in the human genome for over 30 million years. The virus's Rev protein, similar to HIV's, helps with viral replication and may have implications for xenografts and viral infection strategies.