Aging affects dopamine levels, leading to decreased glucose metabolism and brain activity in regions related to cognition. This finding may help develop interventions for age-related cognitive decline.
A new study reveals that backyard burning of household trash can release significant amounts of dioxins and furans into the air. Under controlled conditions, family-sized backyard burns can produce emissions comparable to those from a well-controlled municipal waste incinerator serving tens of thousands of households.
A new study published in Critical Care Medicine found that immune-enhancing therapy significantly reduces infection rates and shortens hospitalization length by nearly three days. The therapy was most beneficial for surgical patients, with no adverse effects observed.
Scientists discovered a PAX9 gene mutation causing congenitally absent molars in a Houston family, revealing insights into the genetics of human tooth development. The study, published in Nature Genetics, used molecular epidemiology and DNA analysis to identify the responsible gene, which is activated early in tooth development.
A study of middle-aged women found that high consumption of zinc, magnesium, potassium, fiber, and vitamin C was linked to higher bone mineral density and reduced evidence of bone loss. Moderate alcohol intake also appeared to have a positive effect on bone health.
According to a NIH/NIAAA study, approximately 28.6% of U.S. children are exposed to familial alcohol dependence or abuse before age 18. Children of alcoholics face increased risk of psychopathology and medical problems, including an increased risk for developing alcohol abuse or alcoholism.
Researchers found that cold temperature needed to preserve livers for transplant also kills sinusoidal endothelial cells, highly specialized liver cells. This discovery suggests a possible drug target and could lead to changes in liver transplant protocols.
Researchers found that the presence of alcohol in red wine had no additional benefit to the body's absorption of flavonoids, including catechin. Blood concentrations of catechin rose sharply in both groups but persisted for less time in those who drank alcoholic beverages.
Researchers found that a short distance of 2.53 angstroms between iron atoms in peroxide-bridged ferritin intermediate favors biomineralization process over oxygen activation. The study uses analytical techniques to probe molecular structure and collaboration with experts from different disciplines.
Researchers discover a method to find peptides that mimic antibodies by binding to specific peptide epitopes, opening up new possibilities for biomedical research and medical diagnostics. The discovery could lead to more field-practical sensors to detect biowarfare agents and other applications.
The second NASA X-34 rocket research plane has reached a major assembly milestone with the attachment of its composite wing to its fuselage. The vehicle, designated A-2, will undergo powered flights next year at Dryden Flight Research Center.
The medical school will recruit four researchers in structural biology, including Michael Weiss, to study molecular processes leading to disease. The HHMI grant aims to enhance the medical school's research enterprise and develop scientific breakthroughs.
A new treatment approach combining traditional chemotherapy with medication delivered through an implanted pump has been found to significantly increase two-year survival rates and decrease tumor recurrence in patients with advanced colorectal cancer that has spread to the liver. The study, published in the New England Journal of Medic...
Researchers at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory identified eight previously unknown genes associated with prostate cancer. The study's 'guilt-by-association' method used statistical analysis to link genes mimicking PSA activity to the disease.
Researchers compare gene order on X and Y chromosomes of humans, cats, and mice, finding that cats and humans have similar gene orders on both chromosomes. A small block of genes with preserved order and spacing was discovered in mouse, cat, and human, suggesting an important function in male reproductive fitness.
A new approach to genome sequencing, called 'walking,' can sequence large segments of the genome in an orderly procession. By reducing redundant sequencing, this method may substantially decrease the cost of sequencing enterprises.
Researchers at Thomas Jefferson University have used a gene repair technique to genetically change white albino mice hairs to black, showing stable and long-lasting changes in skin cells. The technique has potential as a treatment for some hereditary diseases by correcting genetic mutations.
The Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center has been selected to participate in the National Cancer Institute's new Mouse Models of Human Cancers Consortium. Researchers will develop and evaluate mouse models for eight major organ systems, focusing on breast, prostate, lung, ovary, skin, blood and lymph system, colon, and brain cancers.
Avalanches claim over 150 lives worldwide each year, with Colorado leading the nation in fatalities. The state's steep terrain and unpredictable snowpack make it particularly hazardous for hikers, skiers, and snowboarders.
Researchers at Weizmann Institute have discovered the 3-D interaction between galanthamine and brain enzyme acetylcholinesterase (AChE), which breaks down neurotransmitter acetylcholine in Alzheimer's disease. This finding may lead to a new family of drugs with reduced side effects.
A new ovarian tumor index helps physicians accurately diagnose ovarian tumors as either cancerous or benign. The index uses real-time ultrasound findings, patient age, and other characteristics to provide a valuable way for clinicians to plan further testing, surgery, or other clinical management.
A case study by INFORMS finds that organizations operating near safety borders rely on after-the-fact interventions rather than preparation. The study compares two nuclear facilities, highlighting the importance of anticipation, foresight, and countermeasures in staying within a zone of safety.
Scientists at Duke University Medical Center discovered a biological mechanism in mice that prolongs morphine's painkilling effects by eliminating a protein switch called beta-arrestin 2. This finding may lead to the development of new drugs that enhance morphine's action and reduce side effects.
A groundbreaking mouse study has identified the molecular mechanism behind morphine tolerance, offering new hope for more effective pain management. The research found that genetically engineered mice lacking a key protein exhibited prolonged analgesia and reduced tolerance to morphine.
A study at Massachusetts General Hospital identifies a new tumor suppressor gene CHK2 in Li-Fraumeni syndrome, which shares similar functions with p53 and controls cell growth. The discovery provides a potential new target for developing chemotherapy approaches to make cancer cells more vulnerable.
Researchers have defined and sequenced the centromeres of five chromosomes in Arabidopsis thaliana, a flowering plant that has become the primary model for plant genetics. The findings represent the first time scientists have identified the genetic boundaries of centromeres in a multi-cellular organism.
A Brandeis University researcher has mapped the structure of ephemeral protein 'switches' that play a critical role in transforming mild-mannered bacteria into lethal parasites. This finding raises the prospect of a novel kind of antibiotic to combat growing resistance among many bacteria.
University of Toronto researchers have successfully integrated organic molecules and inorganic materials at the molecular scale, creating a new class of composite materials. These hybrid materials have unique properties that could improve their hardness, thermal and electrical insulation, or light emission and magnetism, paving the way...
A study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that anti-IgE therapy significantly improved symptoms in patients with allergic asthma, with 33% and 43% completely eliminating oral corticosteroid use. This new approach may greatly improve treatment outcomes for those with allergic asthma.
Researchers have solved the fundamental problem of scattering in a quantum system of three charged particles, a phenomenon responsible for ionization in atomic physics. They employed exterior complex scaling to obtain accurate solutions using supercomputers, enabling detailed calculations for outgoing states and interactions.
The Adult AIDS Clinical Trials Group will receive $80 million in funding to continue studying antiviral interventions, immune system restoration, and opportunistic disease prevention. The network aims to improve patients' abilities to tolerate therapies and develop new strategies for treating HIV-related complications.
A new study published in the International Quarterly of Community Health Education found that campaigns to prevent high rates of HIV infections and AIDS along the Trans-Africa Highway are not working due to a lack of practical help like condoms. The research, conducted by a team from the University of Georgia and other institutions, fo...
Scientists at the University of Rochester Medical Center are exploring the use of genetic algorithms to treat prostate cancer by improving how radiation is delivered. The formulas have been developed by medical physicist Yan Yu, Ph.D., who heads a task force on the subject for the American Association of Physicists in Medicine.
A study has found that an enzyme involved in normal protein folding also regulates enzymes responsible for folding proteins in healthy cells. This discovery suggests a potential connection between protein misfolding and Alzheimer's disease, with implications for treatment. The researchers identified presenilin-1 as a key player in this...
A recent study by the University of Alberta found that non-paid elderly caregivers in Canada are saving taxpayers over $5 billion each year. However, these caregivers often pay a significant personal cost, including reduced social connections, physical health issues, and financial struggles. To address this issue, researchers recommend...
A new MGH study has identified thrombospondin-2 (TSP-2) as a natural factor that inhibits tumor angiogenesis and growth in mouse models. The researchers found that TSP-2 completely stopped tumor growth when reintroduced into tumor cells, outperforming earlier anti-angiogenesis factors.
A New York-based council argues that health scares about pesticides in food are unjustified on scientific grounds, citing issues of dose and exposure. Experts warn that the risks from nature don't end with cancer, as certain foods like potatoes contain natural toxins.
Researchers at McGill University have developed a nonchemical weedkiller using the naturally occurring pathogen Fusarium to combat Striga in Africa. Crop yields doubled and farmers gained economic power as they could produce the fungus locally, providing a new source of income.
Scientists at PPPL have achieved a significant breakthrough in fusion research, producing the highest plasma current ever recorded in a spherical torus device - 1 million amperes. This milestone is crucial for understanding the physics of fusion and potentially leading to more efficient development paths for fusion energy.
Researchers found that supplemental estrogen prevented hypertension in 3-month-old female rats with healthy hearts, but not in 17-month-old rats who already had hypertension. The study suggests that estrogen supplementation may be beneficial for women nearing or going through perimenopause, where estrogen levels decline.
A team of astronomers has used Chandra to map the distribution of silicon, sulfur, and iron in Cassiopeia A, a supernova remnant. The findings provide insights into how elements are produced in stars and their subsequent release into space.
Researchers are conducting the largest study ever to identify the genetic susceptibility for osteoarthritis, a condition affecting over 21 million Americans. The three-year study will analyze DNA samples and health histories of 1,400 families with multiple siblings diagnosed with primary generalized osteoarthritis.
A Veterans Affairs hospital found that adopting a policy of immediate disclosure to patients injured by medical mistakes and fair compensation reduced overall lawsuit costs. No increase in lawsuits was observed despite the implementation of the policy, highlighting its effectiveness.
The National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases has awarded nearly $4 million for new projects on autoimmune diseases. These projects enhance the NIAMS' commitment in this area, focusing on nine conditions that affect almost every human organ system.
Researchers found that only two out of 32 classrooms met the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association guidelines for background noise level and reverberation time. Background noise was a significant problem in classrooms, with levels ranging from 28 to 68 decibels, and reverberations lasting between 0.2 and 1.27 seconds.
Researchers discovered that full-fat frankfurters release flavor compounds more slowly and last longer than lower fat varieties. This results in a stronger initial flavor followed by a rapid decrease, affecting the overall taste experience.
Researchers are testing gene therapy using nerve growth factor (NGF) to slow Alzheimer's disease progression. The trial aims to assess the safety of NGF-producing cells injected into patients' brains, with potential benefits for slowing dementia.
A new analysis by Futron estimates the risks faced by NASA's space station crew, including serious illness, deaths, and accidents inside the station. The consultancy predicts a 93% probability that a micrometeorite impact will cause disaster if it occurs.
Researchers found that drivers involved in sleep-related crashes were four to five times more likely to work night-shift jobs and had built up 'sleep debt' or gotten far too little sleep before driving. These drivers often relied on ineffective tactics like opening windows or turning up the radio, and put themselves and others at risk ...
A recent study suggests that female and older computer users are more concerned about moral issues affecting the Internet, such as spreading computer viruses and sharing offensive games. The researchers found that younger respondents were less likely to view these actions as harmful.
A study found that creatine supplementation improved the performance of elite male swimmers in a 50-meter swim, but not female swimmers. The research suggests that creatine may enhance muscle energy during high-intensity exercise by increasing phosphocreatine levels.
A six-year study found that elderly women who lose weight are nearly four times more likely to die than those who maintain their weight. Maintaining average BMI over the study period had the lowest death rate among participants.
Researchers at UCSF and Regeneron Pharmaceuticals have found that the protein angiopoietin-1 (Ang1) can restore leaky vessels to normal, block leakage effects of substances, and complement VEGF's growth-promoting action. This discovery holds strong promise for treating chronic inflammatory diseases and promoting healthy blood vessel gr...
Lawrence Schulman proposes a new scientific spin on science fiction, suggesting the possibility of reverse arrow systems where broken eggs re-form and timeline runs backwards. He uses statistical computer modeling to show that such systems could exist in regions with dark matter.
Researchers at Wayne State University have designed two novel antibiotics to combat antibiotic resistance. The 'self-destructive' antibiotic breaks down in the presence of light, while the 'self-regenerating' antibiotic remains effective against resistant bacteria by releasing its active form after encountering resistance enzymes.
Researchers discovered that mouse embryos have an organizational structure in the inner cell mass, predicting spatial patterning later on. This finding provides a new understanding of how mammals develop their bodies and may lead to advances in regulating embryonic stem cell differentiation.
Researchers found clinic-based methods effective in improving health behavior for highly-motivated individuals, but room for improvement exists with 'one-size-fits-all' approaches. Promising trends include advances in addiction treatment and individualized health strategies.
Researchers found that popular youth cigarette brands were more likely to be advertised in magazines with high youth readerships, despite claims of targeting young adults. The study's findings suggest a persistent pattern of advertising to underage youths.
Researchers found that smokers who engage in physical activity during the day tend to gain more weight after quitting, as their bodies burn fewer calories previously taken up by smoking. This study suggests that increasing physical activity levels may help smokers manage weight gain after cessation.
A clinical study found that adefovir reduced viral load by an average of 60% in patients, but also caused kidney problems in about 60% of those taking the drug beyond 24 weeks. The drug is useful as an additional medication for building effective treatment combinations, but should be used with close monitoring.