Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center discovered that cocaine affects the central nervous system, causing vessel constriction, rapid heartbeat, and subsequent heart attacks. By blocking the sympathetic nervous system, they found a potential pathway to develop a life-saving antidote for cocaine overdoses.
Researchers identify Notch signaling pathway involved in switching from brain cell growth to stability, which could lead to new treatments for neurological disorders. The study provides a clue on how the transition from growth to stability occurs in the brain.
A study by University of Michigan researchers found that US teens feel stressed more often than East Asian students, despite performing poorly on math tests. The stress is mainly caused by unclear academic goals and societal expectations, while Japanese students have a clearer focus on academic achievement.
Esther H. Freeman, a chemistry teacher at Tabb High School in Virginia, has received the Southeast Regional High School Chemistry Teaching Award from the American Chemical Society. Her innovative teaching style, which incorporates music and hands-on laboratory experiences, encourages students to participate in science fairs.
A new study by Princeton University researchers shows that switching from leaded to unleaded gasoline can reduce blood lead levels to an average of three micrograms per deciliter, well below the 10 ug/dL threshold considered cause for concern in the US. This reduction is significant, especially in countries still using leaded gasoline.
Researchers have developed an assay that identifies specific combinations of gene variations linked to heart disease. The assay allows quick access to individuals' genetic profiles, enabling precise diagnostic tests for heart disease and other chronic illnesses.
A study by Robert Hegele and colleagues has discovered a genetic link between the GNB3 gene and obesity in the Canadian Inuit. The researchers found that individuals with a common variant of the GNB3 gene had significantly higher body mass index, waist, and hip girth, indicating a strong association with greater body fat.
Scientists have discovered a new species of camel, dated two million years ago, with mountain goat-like features. Additionally, researchers have found dinosaur nesting grounds in Patagonia, providing insights into sauropod reproductive biology and behavior.
A captive breeding program aims to replenish the nearly decimated population of white abalone by leveraging their unique reproductive needs. The mollusks require close proximity with an opposite sex for fertilization, hindering effective reproduction and making conservation efforts challenging.
Researchers at the University of Michigan are developing nanomolecular 'smart bombs' that can detect pre-malignant and cancerous changes in living cells. These devices use synthetic polymers called dendrimers to transport anti-cancer drugs and sensing agents into cells.
A study found that 15% of dental patients with periodontal disease have undiagnosed diabetes, while 56% have high cholesterol. The study highlights the importance of routine physical examinations and preventative care for patients with risk factors.
A recent study published in the Journal of Periodontology found that smokers have lower success rates with periodontal treatment, requiring further treatment nearly 43% of the time. Quitting smoking can improve oral health and reduce risks associated with heart disease and cancer.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins University developed HARP MRI to provide detailed heart muscle images in minutes, not hours. The system uses harmonic phase magnetic resonance imaging and software modifications to produce high-quality images of heart function.
Researchers use satellite altimetry to analyze warm ocean features and predict hurricane intensification, helping forecasters identify areas most at risk from storm surges. A study found that hurricanes crossing warm eddies intensified their winds by up to 70mph in just nine hours.
A UCSF study found that physicians who ask victims of domestic violence if they are being physically abused can provide the first step towards helping them find a way out. The study showed that a validating and gentle approach, rather than seeking a yes or no answer, is more effective in identifying victims and providing support.