A genome-wide study of 308 long-lived individuals revealed a significant correlation between allele sharing on chromosome 4 and longevity. This suggests that the region may contain genes influencing human lifespan, with potential applications in preventing age-associated diseases such as heart disease and Alzheimer's disease.
Researchers at Northwestern University determine the molecular structure of a metallochaperone (CCS) bound to its target protein (SOD), providing new insight into a metal transfer mechanism and shedding light on diseases related to copper and oxidative stress.
Virginia Tech researchers are developing methodology to relate membrane performance to intrinsic polymer properties of microphase separation, water absorption, and proton conductivity. The goal is to produce PEMS that perform well in a wide range of fuel cell environments.
Virginia Tech researchers have developed ultra-thin heat protective coatings for rockets and microelectronics by studying hybrid organic/inorganic molecules. The coatings, which are less than two nanometers thick, offer improved fuel efficiency and weight reduction in space applications.
A study found that switching from a brand-name to a generic epilepsy medication, such as phenytoin, can lead to toxic side effects or loss of seizure control. The variation in the generic formulation can result in a significant decrease in the drug's effectiveness.
Researchers at Michigan State University are developing biocomposites using plant-based materials and sustainable plastic alternatives. These innovative materials have the potential to reduce environmental impact, cost, and production energy while maintaining performance and competitiveness.
Scientists have solved the three-dimensional molecular structure of matriptase, a newly identified serine protease target for breast and prostate cancer drug development. This structural information is expected to facilitate the design of drugs that block or exploit the activity of matriptase and related proteases.
Walter Munk, a leading figure in physical oceanography, is being honored with the inaugural Prince Albert I Medal for his decades-long research on ocean currents, tides, and climate change. His work has significantly improved our understanding of the oceans and their impact on global warming.
A new study found that estrogen patches can improve attention and memory skills in women with Alzheimer's disease. The research used estradiol, a type of estrogen shown to have an effect on the brain, and found significant improvements in attention and memory tests.
A 24-week study found consistent benefits of ARICEPT in patient function, cognition, behavior, and activities of daily living. The medication showed statistically significant overall improvement vs. placebo in behavioral disturbances associated with Alzheimer's disease.
Researchers will use shake tables, centrifuges, and tsunami wave tanks from desktop workstations to conduct experiments. The virtual laboratory, NEESgrid, will connect researchers and facilities across the US, fostering collaboration and accelerating seismic design and hazard mitigation.
The National Science Foundation (NSF) has funded a virtual collaborative research network called NEESgrid. This initiative aims to improve seismic design and hazard mitigation by providing researchers with access to cutting-edge computational tools and experimental equipment, enabling them to share data and resources.
A new study by University of Washington economists found that wives tend to cut back on spending after their husbands retire, indicating a shift in household bargaining power. This difference is attributed to the fact that wives are typically younger and live longer than husbands, leading them to prioritize saving over consumption.
Researchers found that nepetalactone in catnip is about ten times more effective at repelling mosquitoes than DEET. The compound can be used as an alternative to commercial insect repellents with lower concentrations required, making it a promising discovery for pest control.
A study found that pacemakers and ICDs can be infected with Staphylococcus aureus bacteremia without obvious signs, highlighting the need for accurate documentation and removal of devices to prevent serious illness and death. The researchers concluded that removing cardiac devices is essential for patients who develop staph infection.
Researchers identified a region on Chromosome 4 containing genes that contribute to exceptional longevity. This discovery could lead to the development of drugs that mimic centenarians' genetic characteristics, promoting healthy aging.
Researchers identified a small group of neurons responsible for issuing breathing commands within the preBotzinger Complex. Destroying these neurons in rats resulted in irregular breathing patterns and impaired oxygen control, suggesting they hold underlying causes of breathing disorders.
Virginia Tech researchers have created a Selective Ion Trap (SIT) device that can capture and preserve chromium six in the field, enabling faster and more accurate analysis of contaminated groundwater. The device uses a plastic membrane to trap chromium six without allowing it to transform into less reactive forms.
Researchers at Purdue University have demonstrated a method for delivering insulin orally using microscopic particles that protect the medicine from stomach acid until they can be released in the intestines. The system has been shown to be non-toxic and effective, with the potential to revolutionize treatment for insulin-dependent diab...
Scientists at Penn State have developed a new method to reduce the permeability of biomedical polymers using silicate clay, achieving a significant improvement in air and water resistance. The clay is mixed with the polymer in a common solvent, resulting in a barrier that effectively blocks many paths for air and water migration.
Researchers have developed a polymer that protects insulin until it reaches the small intestine, where it can be absorbed into the bloodstream. This breakthrough offers potential relief for people with diabetes who struggle with painful injections.
Researchers from Israel and abroad identified the genetic mutation causing Hereditary Inclusion Body Myopathy (HIBM), a degenerative muscle disease affecting Jews of Persian descent. The mutations affect an enzyme crucial for protein synthesis, leading to muscle degeneration.
A study suggests that hypnosis doesn't enhance the reliability of memory, but increases confidence in inaccurate memories. Researchers found that students under hypnosis were more reluctant to change their answers when told they might be wrong, indicating a higher level of confidence in their estimates.
A study of over 80,000 Minnesota youths found that nearly nine percent of girls and six percent of boys reported some type of abusive date-related experience. Those who experienced both date violence and rape were more likely to have disordered eating behaviors and poor psychological health.
Researchers have developed a dental composite that can remineralize small cavities and prevent demineralization. The material, containing amorphous calcium phosphate, has potential applications in orthodontic adhesives, dental fillings, root canal therapy, and bone repair.
Researchers are exploring government policies to ensure a stable energy supply, including alternative sources like hydrogen, fuel cells, and alkaline fuel cells. Energy R&D spending is linked to energy-related patents, highlighting the need for increased investment in emerging energy problems.
A new food packaging technique using argon gas has been shown to extend the shelf life of foods by 25% and improve their overall quality, with some products seeing a 40-50% improvement. Argon replaces nitrogen, which causes food to oxidize and spoil, making it a safe and effective way to preserve food.
A new study involving young adult transracial adoptees found that their exposure and competence in their birth culture are not necessary for good psychological adjustment. The study suggests that family and peer relationships, rather than cultural identity, may play a more significant role in shaping their mental health.
Two studies suggest that environment plays a significant role in whether youth benefit from sports participation. In one study, urban youth showed positive influences on self-esteem and social competence, while rural African American girls found sports involvement may increase delinquent behaviors and substance use. The findings highli...
Investigators found that children with OSAS had smaller airway volume, larger tonsil and adenoid tissue, which restricts airways. Work-related factors are linked to a higher prevalence of persistent asthma in 29% of males and 17% of females.
Researchers have developed a new circuit using hollow carbon nanotubes, which can switch between 'on' and 'off' states and perform logic functions. The design enables more complex circuits to be built, potentially replacing silicon in microchips within the next 10-15 years.
A genetic mutation in the CCR5 gene provides protection against HIV infection, slowing the spread of AIDS in African populations. Studies suggest that this mutation may be more common in European populations due to historical epidemics.
The Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission (TRMM) spacecraft will continue to provide vital data on global rainfall and climate change with its extended mission. Scientists anticipate improved climate predictions and a more robust record of rainfall patterns.
Experts analyze a study finding that religious involvement has the largest impact on early adolescent self-esteem. They caution against overlooking practical implications and highlight limitations of the study's explanations.
Researchers have discovered that a T arrangement in molecular electronic switches enables efficient communication between distant molecules, facilitating the on and off states of the switch. This finding broadens design possibilities for molecular photonics, solar energy conversion, and nanotechnology.
Researchers from UNC School of Medicine and Pharmacy have developed a new method to calculate protein stability, which could improve drug design and engineering. The approach uses computational manipulations to predict the effects of amino acid mutations on protein stability.
A national survey of eighth graders found that religious involvement has the largest influence on their self-esteem, with positive effects observed in African American girls and White male students. The study suggests that churches and families play a significant role in shaping young adolescents' self-evaluations.
The American College of Physicians-American Society of Internal Medicine has released a comprehensive guide for primary care doctors on obesity diagnosis and management. Obesity rates increased by 30% between 1980 and 1994, carrying significant direct health care costs for the United States. The guide addresses key aspects of medical a...
Research reveals that US nature reserves are unevenly distributed across ecological zones, leaving many plant and animal species unprotected. The study suggests that involving the private sector in conservation strategies can help preserve America's biodiversity.
A recent UCSF study found that fine needle biopsy (FNAB) accuracy can be significantly improved with formally trained physicians. The researchers analyzed 927 women's medical histories and tissue samples, finding that less-well-trained practitioners were more likely to miss cancers due to errors in sampling.
Researchers discovered that HIV DNA serves as a template to produce viral proteins Nef and Tat, bringing CD4 T cells out of their resting state. Non-integrated HIV DNA contributes to disease progression, despite not producing new viruses.
A new double transgenic mouse model has been developed to study Alzheimer's disease, featuring both brain plaques and tangles associated with the condition. The model is expected to contribute significantly to knowledge about the course of the disease and aid in further development and testing of potential therapies.
Research studies found that low MBL concentrations are associated with prolonged fever and infection in cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy. MBL infusions may represent a new therapeutic approach to reduce illness and death for these patients.
Researchers at UC Davis successfully cloned the first calf using a skin cell from an adult cow, but unfortunately, the calf died just three days after birth. The cloning technique holds promise for improving meat and milk production, with ongoing research aiming to overcome existing challenges.
Researchers found that bisexual and homosexual Caucasian men with one copy of the delta-32 mutation have a 70% reduced risk of HIV infection compared to those without the mutation. The study, published in the Journal of Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndromes, provides insight into resistance to HIV infection among high-risk populations.
A Rutgers researcher discovered the rapid revival of life around hydrothermal vents on the Pacific Ocean floor after a lava flow appeared to exterminate it. Over 500 new species have been found at these sites, including unique organisms like giant tube worms and hairy Pompeii worms.
A research team led by University of Colorado at Boulder Professor Roger Bilham failed to find alternatives to huge Indian earthquakes, concluding that at least one 8.1-8.3 magnitude earthquake and up to seven are overdue due to the movement of the Indian plate towards Tibet.
A team of researchers analyzed a rare, well-preserved meteorite found in Canada, revealing organic compounds with similarities to other known carbonaceous chondrites. The study suggests that the Tagish Lake Meteorite may represent an early stage in the evolution of complex carbon compounds in space.
Researchers at Lehigh University are developing a tiny generating plant, housed on a silicon chip, that can produce enough hydrogen to run power-consuming portable devices. The chip-based micro-chemical plant demonstrates feasibility in producing small amounts of hydrogen.
A Kenyan study found a significant link between exposure to particulate matter (PM10) from biomass fuels and acute respiratory infections. The researchers estimated the public health benefits of reduced PM10 exposure, with the greatest impact seen for average exposures below 1000-2000 mg/m3.
Researchers at UCSD have discovered a new immunological pathway involving the enzyme I-kappa-B kinase alpha (IKKa), which plays a crucial role in developing B cells and forming certain lymphoid organs. Blocking IKKa's action may offer a new approach to treating autoimmune diseases without compromising the immune system.
A Kenyan study found that inconsistent refrigeration, data-entry errors, and equipment failure contribute to HIV transmission through blood transfusions. The study led to the implementation of rapid HIV test kits, laboratory training programs, and universal screening of all blood donations to improve blood safety.
A recent outbreak of sleeping sickness in eastern Uganda may be attributed to livestock movement from another part of the country where the disease is endemic. The study found that over 50% of cattle traded at the market originated from areas with the disease, and that distance to the market was a significant risk factor for sleeping s...
Wind power has dropped in cost to 3-4 cents per kilowatt-hour, making it less expensive than coal energy. Shifting from coal to wind could address health, environmental, and energy problems, including reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
Researchers at Michigan Tech have deployed a laboratory on Pico mountain in the Azores to track air pollution drifting across the North Atlantic. The lab, known as PICO-NARE, will detect ozone, black carbon dust, and carbon monoxide, shedding light on the impact of local pollution on global warming.
A study of 72,904 French women found that those who consumed alcohol had a 29.5% higher calorie intake compared to non-drinkers, with protein and cholesterol intake also increased. Heavy drinkers were more likely to be smokers and experienced negative health effects.
A study of 183 Norwegian participants found that abstaining from filtered coffee reduced total cholesterol and tHcy levels, while increasing folate levels. This reduction in risk factors may be attributed to the presence of terpenoids in coffee that are only partially removed during filtering.
Seismologist Douglas A. Wiens finds deep earthquakes recur at the same spot repeatedly, supporting ductile shear zone model. The research uses seismic wave evidence to locate earthquakes with accuracy, enabling future study of deep fault zones.
Consuming caffeinated carbonated beverages results in small but significant increases in urinary calcium excretion, displacing milk's role as a major source of bone-building calcium. Regular consumption leads to nutrient deficiencies, causing bone loss.
Duke researchers have identified caveolae, small pits on cell membranes, as a route of entry for various pathogens and toxins. This finding could lead to new avenues for treating infections and delivering drugs into cells.