Researchers have determined the 3-dimensional structure of a Rosetta Stone protein, which may help scientists understand how cells are programmed to die and shed light on the role of loss in cancer. The human Fhit protein is encoded at the most fragile site in the genome and is lost in many human cancers.
Critics argue that the 1990 Act has shifted protection focus towards rehabilitation, allowing more abuse to occur. The number of children placed in care fell by a third, but this decline is attributed to social workers' reluctance to intervene rather than a decrease in abuse.
Two separate groups of scientists identified a genetic mutation associated with primary pulmonary hypertension (PPH), a rare but devastating lung disease. Defects in the BMPR2 gene lead to abnormal proliferation of cells in the lungs characteristic of PPH.
A large-scale study suggests that coffee drinkers are at a higher risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis. The research found that those who consumed four or more cups of coffee daily were twice as likely to test positive for the disease, while those who drank 11 cups or more were nearly 15 times more likely.
The International Conference on Heavy Metals in the Environment will discuss successes and failures of research on human exposure to toxic metals. Major themes include risk assessment, environmental epidemiology, and human health effects, with a focus on protecting children from toxic metals.
Researchers at Vanderbilt University Medical Center have identified Bone Morphogenic Protein Receptor Two (BMPR2) as the gene responsible for causing PPH, a fatal lung disease. The mutation of this gene causes cells to grow and clog blood vessels in the lungs, leading to high blood pressure.
A study of over 300 heart attack survivors found that only one in four called for help within an hour, while 12% delayed more than 24 hours. Prompt treatment can halve the risk of death from a heart attack, highlighting the importance of swift medical attention.
A study found that young women with heart disease experience worsening exercise performance and angina pain in the early follicular phase, just after menstruation, but improved performance and slower pain onset in mid-cycle. Sex hormones may play a role in these fluctuations.
The Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI) has awarded $15 million in grants to 45 scientists worldwide to develop new approaches for treating various infectious and parasitic diseases. The selected researchers will focus on specific diseases or study underlying biological processes to control or cure these conditions.
A pilot study suggests metformin, a type 2 diabetes drug, may help treat HIV lipodystrophy by reducing insulin levels and improving metabolic changes. The treatment was well-tolerated with no serious side effects reported, but further studies are needed to confirm its effectiveness.