A new study has revealed that Italian wolves have maintained a pure population despite facing threats such as competition for food and space. The researchers analyzed mitochondrial DNA samples from over 100 Italian wolves, finding unique sequences that indicate the species has remained genetically distinct from feral dogs.
Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center have found evidence of brain-stem damage in Gulf War veterans who experience dizziness, suggesting that the symptoms are caused by chemical and nerve agent exposure. The study also highlights a higher risk of death in motor vehicle accidents among these veterans.
Researchers have identified conserved non-coding sequences (CNSs) in the human genome that regulate gene expression, using comparative analysis techniques with mice. These regulatory sequences were found to be present across various mammals, indicating their importance in biological functions.
Researchers found that Florida scrub-jays nesting along roadsides die at a higher rate than those on non-road territories, with up to half of new breeders dying in their first two years. The roadside death rate is particularly high for young fledglings and newly arrived breeders.
Researchers found that airborne sea salt particles undergo a chemical reaction in daylight to release chlorine molecules, which can influence ozone levels. This discovery suggests that sea salt particles may play a significant role in determining the levels of certain greenhouse gases and air pollutants in coastal urban areas.
A study of 99 mothers found that those who smoked during pregnancy had toddlers with higher levels of impulsivity, risk-taking, and rebelliousness. The researchers speculate that reducing maternal smoking could lead to a decrease in childhood negativity.
The decoded genetic information contains an estimated 10-15,000 genes linked to diseases such as kidney disease, cancer, and hypertension. Researchers can now mine this data for advances in basic understanding of life and applications like diagnosing and treating diseases.
A study of 294 adolescents found that having an adult mentor significantly reduces the likelihood of engaging in high-risk behaviors such as carrying a weapon, using illicit drugs, and smoking. Mentorship appears to be an effective strategy in reducing certain risk behaviors and their consequences.
Researchers found nearly 1,000 cave species in the continental US, with over 60% living in a single county or cave. Protecting land above caves is crucial to save these species from disruptions to vegetation and drainage basins.
A recent study updated the classic 'Stigler's Diet Problem' to reflect current dietary recommendations and prices. The results show that a woman's diet is approximately $115.40 cheaper than a man's, with daily costs of $535.27 for women and $651.27 for men.
The National Reading Panel concludes that a combination of teaching phonics, word sounds, and providing feedback on oral reading is the most effective way to teach children to read. The panel's rigorous scientific review identifies systematic phonics instruction as a key component of classroom reading instruction.
The journal features novel approaches to analyzing complex peptides, such as pramlintide, and developing injectable implants for sustained drug release. Liposomes are also explored as carriers for antimicrobial peptides like Leucinostatin A.
Researchers have found a way to convert oil to methane gas using specialized microorganisms living beneath the earth's surface. This breakthrough could lead to safer oil exploration and more efficient extraction methods.
A large-scale NHLBI study found a significant relationship between sleep apnea and hypertension, with middle-aged adults at highest risk. The study revealed that even moderate levels of sleep apnea can increase the risk of hypertension in all participants, regardless of age or weight.
A study found that young women with diseases requiring strict diets may experience unhealthy eating attitudes and behaviors, which can increase the risk of vascular complications and brain damage. The research highlights the need for clinicians to monitor signs of disordered eating in patients with chronic diseases.
A new study by Dr. Wafaa M. El-Sadr found that HIV-infected patients with restored immunity can safely defer taking prophylactic antibiotics due to low infection rates. The study showed that antiretroviral therapy reconstitutes protective immunity, reducing the risk of opportunistic infections.
A recent study published in the Journal of Health and Social Behavior found that caring for an ill or disabled family member can increase emotional distress and accumulate over time. Women who care for their loved ones experience higher levels of distress, particularly those who provide long-term care.
A partnership between conservation organizations and universities uses remote sensing technology to assess gorilla habitat, track population, and manage National Parks. The project aims to rebuild Rwanda's national university and recover from a devastating war and genocide.
Researchers found that oxidants are necessary for endothelial cell migration and wound healing after vascular injury. Oxidants stimulate the production of actin fibers, allowing cells to move towards injured sites.
Researchers discovered a group of genes controlled by leptin that regulate fat tissue mass and body weight. The study found that leptin influences fatty acid synthesis through the regulation of SREBP-1, identifying potential therapeutic targets for treating obesity.
A study of 558 students and professionals found that religious individuals value interdependence with others, whereas non-religious people prioritize self-reliance. This contradicts common criticisms that religious dependence is a sign of weakness.
Borggaard, a Virginia Tech assistant professor, has made important contributions to the Air Force's science and technology needs with his work on continuous sensitivity equation methods. His research aims to reduce design cycle times and improve aerodynamic flows, benefiting aircraft performance and fuel efficiency.
Researchers found that using handrails on a stepping machine reduces maximum heart rates by up to 5% and oxygen uptake by up to 8%. Women are advised to keep their hands off the rails for optimal results. The study, published in Research in Nursing & Health, suggests women should use a light touch or avoid using handrails altogether.
A team of University of Massachusetts researchers has developed a way to make molecules that are too small to be seen, behave in a predictable and orderly way. The finding could lead to the creation of faster computers and ultra-sensitive sensors.
A Mayo Clinic study finds surgery and anesthesia as independent risk factors for ischemic stroke within 30 days after surgery. The relative risk was elevated for both high-risk and lower-risk surgeries.
Researchers have developed a new technique to identify elusive human genes expressed at low levels, which could play crucial roles in normal processes or disease prevention. The approach reduces the 'tail' of genetic material, retaining more copies of these genes and increasing their discovery rate.
University of Florida researchers Richard Elston and Zhuomin Zhang won the Presidential Early Career Award for Scientists and Engineers. The award includes a $500,000 research grant to support their independent research careers. The recipients' work focuses on advancing basic science in heat transfer and thermodynamics.
Researchers found that 10 out of 20 bioflavonoids tested caused breaks in the MLL gene, which is a key player in about 80% of infant leukemias. The study suggests that high dietary intake of bioflavonoids could cause DNA damage and potentially trigger leukemia.
A nerve protein known as the capsaicin receptor triggers pain signals when exposed to heat or noxious chemicals, contributing to pain from tissue injury and inflammation. Blocking this receptor may ease some kinds of pain, such as visceral pain conditions.
A three-year study by OHSU researchers shows a team-centered model program reduces drug use and improves nutrition behaviors among male high school athletes. The ATLAS program integrated education on substance abuse, nutrition, and strength training, resulting in decreased substance use and improved self-esteem.
A recent study published in the Annals of Internal Medicine found that HIV-positive smokers are up to seven times more likely to develop emphysema. Early emphysema was detected in people with an average age of 35, highlighting the importance of quitting smoking for those living with HIV.
People with AIDS-defining illnesses are at higher risk of developing memory loss and cognitive problems, including dementia. This poses a challenge for treatment adherence and overall public health.
A recent Mayo Clinic study found that patients with CMV disease used significantly more resources and had higher charges than those without infection. Preventive treatment of CMV in high-risk patients can significantly reduce these costs.
Dr. Sanjay Raman is developing single IC chip technology that can integrate antennas and electronics in wireless devices, enabling smaller devices with vast applications in military, medical, and environmental fields. He also aims to create comprehensive communications curriculums at Virginia Tech.
A large study of over 13,000 participants found an inverse relationship between blood levels of vitamin C and the prevalence of gallbladder disease in women. Women with higher vitamin C levels had a lower risk of symptomatic gallbladder disease and asymptomatic gallstones.
Researchers at the University of Illinois Chicago found a common genetic link between diverse age-related diseases, including cancer and Alzheimer's disease. The activation of the p21 gene may contribute to the development of these diseases by stopping cells from growing and dividing.
A new meta-analysis of 24 studies found that allergy shots can effectively treat allergic asthma in both adults and children, reducing symptoms and improving lung function. The research suggests that up to half of all adult asthmatics and an even greater proportion of children may benefit from immunotherapy.
A study found that prenatal exposure to DDE and PCBs increased the size of children at puberty, with boys growing taller and heavier and some girls becoming heavier for their heights. The findings suggest a potential link between environmental pollutants and childhood growth.
A new study has found a significant link between radiation exposure and an increased risk of multiple myeloma among nuclear workers, with older workers facing the highest risks. Workers exposed to ionizing radiation had a 3.5-fold higher mortality rate compared to those with lower exposures.
Researchers found that taking American ginseng before a meal reduced blood sugar levels in both diabetic and non-diabetic individuals. The study's findings suggest that controlling after-meal blood sugar levels may be an important strategy in managing diabetes and preventing its onset.
A drug used to help people quit smoking may also reduce cocaine cravings in rats, with results showing a reduction of over 40% in self-administration. Mecamylamine blocks nicotinic receptors, which are involved in generating feelings of pleasure and can contribute to addiction.
Researchers found that common food preservatives appear to enhance the cavity-protecting action of fluoride, leading to fewer cavities in rats. Avoiding high-sugar foods, maintaining good brushing habits, and regular dental checkups remain essential for preventing cavities.
Researchers at UB School of Dental Medicine found a strong link between obesity and gum disease, with overweight individuals showing a 50% increased risk of severe periodontal disease. The study also suggests that bacteria in the mouth may contribute to insulin resistance, increasing the risk of Type 2 diabetes and heart disease.
The cavity rate among children in Rochester is on the rise slightly, with an average of three cavities per 10-year-old child. The decline in cavity rates that began in the 1970s and 1980s has flattened, and researchers warn that complacency may be contributing to the increase.
Researchers found that marine mammals take advantage of buoyancy changes with depth, allowing them to glide rather than swim during deep dives. This strategy enables animals to extend their dives and conserve energy.
Researchers re-create chemical signatures thought to be produced only by living organisms in a laboratory setting. The team's findings suggest that simple chemical processes can account for the proportions previously believed to indicate past life, and may have implications for searching for life on Mars or other celestial bodies.
A new study suggests Reminyl, a treatment for Alzheimer's disease, provides significant cognitive and functional improvements in patients. The medication has been shown to delay the emergence of behavioral symptoms and maintain daily functioning for up to a year.
Researchers at McGill University have identified a novel receptor combination that could lead to new treatments for various neurological disorders. The discovery involves the interaction between dopamine and somatostatin receptors, which can produce synergistic responses when activated simultaneously.
A new, less invasive approach to removing a kidney from living donors has more than doubled the chance of patients receiving a transplant from a friend or loved one. The technique, combined with an educational program, has increased living donor transplants by half, with 40% of recent transplants coming from living donors.
Scientists have discovered a potential drug target for treating African sleeping sickness by identifying a unique metabolic pathway in the parasite. The discovery offers hope for developing effective treatments for the estimated 500,000 people affected by the disease.
University of Cincinnati researchers have developed new techniques to analyze selenium in food supplements, identify arsenic accumulation in seafood and sea plants, and speed up sample preparation using microwave energy. These advancements hold promise for environmental health, bioremediation, and understanding metal toxicity.
A psychologist has developed low-cost methods to reduce pharmacy errors, including the use of larger labels, focused task lighting, and self-monitoring journals. These inexpensive changes can significantly improve accuracy and are relevant for small community drug stores that may not have access to high technology.
Scientists are using harmonic analysis on satellite images to study changes in vegetation during growing seasons and land use patterns. They can detect desertification, forest regeneration, and climate change by analyzing wave patterns and amplitude measurements.
Elias J. Corey has developed a new method for synthesizing ecteinascidin and phthalascidin, two drugs estimated to be at least 100 times more powerful than Taxol in inhibiting tumor cell growth. The findings have shown promising results in soft-tissue sarcoma treatment and could lead to faster availability of these life-saving drugs.
Scientists at Bristol-Myers Squibb identified a novel class of phosphodiesterase inhibitors that act on the same target as sildenafil, showing improved efficacy and selectivity in treating erectile dysfunction. The new compounds were found to be more potent and selective than sildenafil against various forms of the enzyme.
The American Association for the Advancement of Science is hosting a conference to discuss current ethics codes, societal efforts, and ways to improve them. The conference will analyze survey outcomes and develop a research agenda to enhance collaboration in promoting research integrity.
The Albert B. Sabin Heroes of Science Awards recognize individuals who have made significant contributions to biomedical research, including vaccine development and transplant surgery. This year's awardees include Dave and Lynn Frohnmayer, Maurice R. Hilleman, Francis Daniels Moore, Ruth L. Kirschstein, and John Edward Porter.
A recent study found that attending religious services is associated with lower likelihoods of voluntary sexual activity in adolescents. Spiritual interconnectedness and importance of religion also play a role in delaying sexual activity.
Two UC San Francisco scholars analyze a 10-year study on second-hand smoke and cancer, finding the tobacco industry launched an unprecedented misinformation campaign to undermine its findings. The campaign was aimed at slowing down smoking restrictions in European markets.
Researchers have discovered that stimulating nerves can alter cortical responses, leading to potential therapeutic approaches for stroke victims. By bypassing damaged brain areas, patients may regain at least some movement control.