Researchers have identified the RMRP gene responsible for cartilage-hair hypoplasia, a rare syndrome causing dwarfism. The discovery may lead to better understanding and treatment of the disease, which affects worldwide but is prevalent in Finnish and Amish populations.
Researchers unveil a new model suggesting magnetic dynamo forces shape planetary nebulae by twisting radiating material into distinctive shapes. The discovery sheds light on the cosmic 'paintbrush' responsible for creating stunning nebulae, with implications extending beyond our solar system.
Researchers analyzed ancient coral cores to study climate patterns and found that El Niño was weaker during ice ages, while warm periods saw stronger events. The findings suggest global warming may be responsible for recent intense El Niño events, but more research is needed.
A study published in Neuron found that ephrin-B3 plays a key role in the connection between the brain and spinal cord, which is essential for forming motor connections. The research provides new insights into mirror movement disorder, a rare condition characterized by involuntary symmetrical movements of limbs.
Measuring horizontal strain is crucial for understanding how aquifers respond to pumping, as it affects both vertical and horizontal compression. Scientists have found that aquifer compression occurs in a horizontal direction, leading to land subsidence.
The Penn Head Injury Center will study the long-term effects of concussions with a $110,000 grant from NFL Charities. The center aims to develop new therapeutic strategies for traumatic brain injury and improve treatment outcomes.
A clinical study has confirmed a single gene mutation as the cause of chloroquine-resistant malaria. The study developed a molecular marker that can diagnose individuals with chloroquine-resistant malaria, helping doctors select the best therapy and public health officials set country-wide treatment guidelines.
Researchers have solved a long-standing volcanic mystery by finding a tear in the Pacific Plate, leading to the melting of cold slab material and altering its chemical makeup. This discovery sheds new light on the formation of adakites, a type of lava found in various parts of the globe.
A new predatory dinosaur, Masiakasaurus knopfleri, has been discovered in Madagascar with unique features including specialized teeth and jaws. The fossil remains date back to the Late Cretaceous period, around 65-70 million years ago.
Researchers identified a polyoxometalate (POM) molecule that inhibits HIV protease, providing a potential second line of attack against the virus. The discovery could lead to reduced spread of drug-resistant strains and delayed onset of full-blown AIDS.
Researchers at Washington University in St. Louis found evidence that hot and dry Venus could have had water in its past due to the chemical stability of tremolite at extreme temperatures. This discovery could help scientists determine if they should investigate hydrous minerals on Venus.
A study from the University of Southern California found that regular use of permanent hair dyes increases the risk of bladder cancer in women. Women who use permanent dyes at least once a month for one year or longer have twice the risk of bladder cancer as non-users, with increased risks observed in frequent users over 15 years.
A newly completed genomic sequence of E. coli O157:H7 reveals how these bacteria are armed with a wide range of genes that trigger illness. The study found large-scale genetic changes, including the ability for viruses to introduce virulent genes, making it harder to control public health threats.
A common treatment for diabetic crisis in children may contribute to a rare but often-fatal complication known as cerebral edema. Two simple blood test measurements can help predict which patients are at greatest danger of developing the potentially deadly complication.
A new study sequenced the gene of a deadly type of Escherichia coli, revealing that it frequently picks up new DNA from other bacteria and viral genes. These newly acquired genes may contribute to the organism's virulence and make infections difficult to treat.
Three Dutch researchers, Ewine van Dishoeck, Daan Frenkel, and Dirkje Postma, have been awarded the NWO/SPINOZA Award for their internationally recognized excellence in science. The award recognizes their exceptional contributions to molecular astrophysics, computational physical chemistry, and pathophysiology of respiratory disorders.
Researchers at the University at Buffalo have developed a computer program that can analyze handwriting and determine authorship with high accuracy. The software uses scientific criteria to quantify performance and increase confidence in identifying writers, which is essential for admitting handwriting evidence in U.S. courts.
The long-term care staff crisis is caused by low pay, restricted immigration policies, and a shrinking labor pool, resulting in patient deaths and injuries. Upgrading the training and professional development of nursing assistants and offering higher pay could solve the crisis.
A study by Cornell University found that even moderately noisy open offices can contribute to health problems like heart disease and musculoskeletal issues. Workers in noisy offices experienced higher levels of stress and made fewer ergonomic adjustments than those in quiet offices.
Scientists using Chandra X-ray Observatory discovered a supernova remnant in the center of our galaxy, which may help regulate a nearby supermassive black hole. The remnant is believed to be responsible for intense feeding of material into the black hole, followed by a period of starvation.
A team led by Sean Ling observes melting in a superconductor using a single crystal of niobium and neutron imaging. The result shows that vortices can melt into a liquid at a specific temperature, paving the way for further studies on the mechanism of melting.
A new drug, lamotrigine, has been shown to reduce central post-stroke pain in patients by an average of 30 percent. The treatment was found to be effective for patients who could not tolerate amitriptyline due to its side effects.
A Cornell University study found that women who gained more than the recommended amount during pregnancy are four times more likely to be obese one year after giving birth. This excessive weight gain contributes significantly to the rising levels of obesity in the US.
A study of over 4,500 teens found that affiliation with substance-using peers can significantly increase the likelihood of smoking and drinking. Parents also play a role in influencing teen behavior, particularly those who demonstrate high levels of regard and responsiveness to their children.
The Cassini spacecraft's Magnetospheric Imaging Instrument (MIMI) has captured the first images of Jupiter's magnetosphere and surrounding particles. These images reveal the presence of a huge nebula enveloping Jupiter, extending out to 13 million miles from the planet.
A study of 15 professional welders found they developed typical clinical signs of Parkinson's disease 15 years earlier than the general population. Brain imaging scans revealed no significant difference in dopamine levels between the welders and control patients, suggesting a possible environmental link.
A study by Penn researchers found that a common gene delivery system for muscular dystrophy can trigger an immune response in mice unless paired with a muscle-specific promoter. The use of restricted promoters is crucial before expanding clinical trials.
Idun Pharmaceuticals recreates key apoptosis reaction to understand mechanism of programmed cell death. The company screens new drugs modulating apoptosis using the assay, aiming to treat cancers, heart attacks, and strokes.
A landmark survey shows that patients with major depression often feel their illness isn't under complete control and experience few quality-of-life improvements. The study highlights a significant communication gap between primary care physicians and patients, leading to inadequate treatment and side effect management.
A study by Raben et al. found that postobese women have different metabolic profiles than never obese women, with greater insulin sensitivity and more efficient triacylglycerol storage. This suggests that weight loss may not entirely eliminate the risks associated with obesity.
A study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that energy-restricted diets had the most beneficial effects on serum lipids, lowering triglycerol concentrations and elevating HDL cholesterol. The authors suggest reevaluating current low-fat diet recommendations for individuals with excess body weight.
The Canadian Medical Association Journal has published new clinical practice guidelines for managing lymphedema related to breast cancer treatment. The guidelines include an updated patient version for women battling the condition. These updates aim to improve patient care and outcomes.
A new study by Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center reveals that some children receive five times more radiation than necessary during CT scans. Researchers found that adjusting technical factors like tube current and pitch can significantly reduce exposure without sacrificing image quality.
A study found that the cholesterol-lowering drug pravastatin reduced stroke risk by 20% in patients with heart disease or high cholesterol. The medication also showed benefit when combined with aspirin and blood-pressure-lowering drugs, providing a new approach to preventing strokes.
Scientists have detected early indications of a lobster decline in the Gulf of Maine, with juvenile lobsters showing a 40% decrease in Penobscot Bay. The research team's approach to monitoring three stages of lobster life suggests widespread declines at least west of Penobscot Bay.
A study by Dr. Vivek Goel and colleagues found that women with early-stage breast cancer treated in specialized teaching hospitals had a higher 5-year survival rate than those treated in community hospitals. The results suggest that initial treatment at specialized centers may be advantageous for women with small tumors.
A study found that nutrient-dense food supplementation significantly lowered serum homocysteine and methylmalonic acid levels, indicating a reduction in cardiovascular risk. However, exercise had no effect on neuropsychological functioning or nutritional health in frail elderly subjects.
A new therapy effectively treats a disease similar to multiple sclerosis in monkeys by targeting T cells that cause the disease. The approach could soon be tested against MS and other autoimmune diseases in humans, offering potential for improved treatment options.
A new study found that puberty causes a general metabolic slowdown in both white and African American adolescents, with African Americans having greater lean mass in limbs but lower lean mass in the trunk. This difference may contribute to a lower resting energy expenditure (REE) in African Americans.
A new study found that women treated in teaching hospitals for initial breast cancer surgery had a five-year survival rate of 93%, compared to 89% for those treated in community hospitals. Comprehensive care approaches and multidisciplinary services may contribute to these differences.
Three new studies show that expressing positive emotions can lead to better relationships, mental focus, and personal well-being. Additionally, research finds that a positive outlook on life persists into old age, with extraverted individuals less likely to experience a decline in positive affect.
Researchers found that obese women who used weight loss medication MERIDIA in combination with a comprehensive lifestyle modification program lost an average of 24.4 pounds, compared to 8.4 pounds for those treated by medication alone. Lifestyle modification included diet and exercise, as well as weekly group sessions to plan meals and...
A University of Cincinnati doctoral student and her team have found conclusive evidence of burnt animal sacrifice in Bronze Age Greece, supporting details in Homer's 'The Odyssey'. The Pylos bones date back to the 13th century B.C. and provide historical credence to the practice.
A specific protein isolated from Chilean tarantula venom shows promise as a basis for new drugs to prevent atrial fibrillation, a major cause of death following a heart attack. The research demonstrates the physiological function of mechanosensitive ion channels in the heart for the first time.
A wearable translator is being developed by ONR to provide real-time language translation for the military and civilians. The device will be able to understand context and generate appropriate translations, benefiting various professionals such as airport personnel and tourists.
A system of acoustic sensors, originally developed for underwater mine detection, has been fitted onto gates and locks at Port Canaveral to protect manatees. Since its installation in March 2023, the system has detected seven manatees and saved them from death.
A study found that individuals with high scores for neuroticism tend to have lower immune system responses to vaccination, making them more vulnerable to disease. Stress can further weaken the immune system, exacerbating this effect.
Jay Levy, MD, argues that an HIV vaccine aiming to reduce virus levels in blood and genital fluids could play a crucial role in controlling the epidemic. This approach would delay disease development and suppress the virus worldwide, rather than achieving sterilizing immunity.
Warmer tropical Pacific Ocean sea-surface temperatures are responsible for increased cloudiness and regional cooling in the central and eastern US. The effect is attributed to moisture transport, which generates additional cloud cover and reflects solar radiation back into space.
Researchers have discovered a new protein component that controls calcium entry into cells and activates itself and other proteins, making it a potential new drug target for diseases like cancer and heart conditions. The protein, TRP-PLIK, is present in many tissues and its unique dual function has sparked interest among scientists.
At Temple University, students are participating in a month-long course to study the biology of coral reefs, with a field trip to Belize's Great Barrier Reef. Researchers from Temple and the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute have also discovered early evidence of root crop cultivation in the Americas, dating back nearly 7,000 years.
A 21-year global record of precipitation suggests a decrease in rainfall over the Indian Ocean may signal an approaching strong El Niño. This finding could provide nations most affected by El Niños with earlier warning systems to better prepare for devastating climate changes.
Purdue University researchers found that sea salt and sunlight interact to destroy ozone in the Arctic troposphere. The study suggests a naturally occurring process that may impact air quality in urban areas.
Researchers at Yale University have identified a receptor responsible for inhibiting the growth of injured nerve fibers in the brain and spinal cord. This finding holds promise for reversing functional deficits caused by trauma, stroke, or degenerative diseases such as multiple sclerosis.
A study found that using oral steroids to control severe asthma attacks reduced the risk of death from the disease by 90 percent. A written asthma action plan also significantly reduced the risk of death and hospitalization rates. Additionally, African-American women experienced a slower rate of lung function decline with age compared ...
Researchers at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center have discovered a genetic mutation in the MAD2 protein that makes cancer cells genetically unstable and resistant to chemotherapy drugs. This finding may lead to new treatments and diagnostic markers for aggressive tumors.
A new study suggests that pessimists can temper their negative outlook when judging others by focusing on the task at hand. Pessimistic individuals are aware of their negativity and can correct for this bias if they have sufficient mental resources available.
A new study reveals that well-intentioned conservation programs in the Amazon are insufficient to offset the destruction from agriculture, timber, and mining. The researchers project devastating impacts on biodiversity, climate change, and global warming if current trends continue.
Recent advances in diabetes treatment have improved blood sugar control, allowing patients to dodge complications until late life. New drug therapies, including metformin and insulin analogs, have enhanced treatment possibilities.
A new study predicts that Brazil's planned road network will lead to widespread devastation of the Amazon rainforest, releasing more greenhouse gases and increasing forest fires. The researchers' models suggest that up to 1 million acres of rainforest could be lost annually.