Researchers have adapted microcilia technology to enable small satellites to quickly and efficiently dock with their mother ships. The system uses pulsating waves of tiny fingers to maneuver objects in any direction, promising a game-changing advancement for future space missions.
Researchers used Sangamo's ZFP technology to repress a specific gene variant, preventing fat cells from developing. This breakthrough demonstrates the precision of ZFPs in regulating gene expression and may lead to new treatments for diseases related to fat cell development.
Six popular herbal therapies - Ginkgo, St John's wort, Ginseng, Echinacea, Saw palmetto, and Kava - have varying levels of effectiveness and safety. Prednisone, a glucocorticoid, reduced swelling and progression of damage to joints in patients with early active rheumatoid arthritis.
Researchers identify PPARgamma2 as critical player in fat cell differentiation process. The discovery provides a molecular target for rational drug design to combat obesity.
Researchers found a significant link between exposure to high levels of ozone and carbon monoxide during the second month of pregnancy and an increased risk of conotruncal heart defects. The study analyzed data from over 9,000 babies born in Los Angeles and found that women exposed to elevated pollution levels were three times as likel...
Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center have developed a new procedure for delivering vaccines by manipulating dendritic cells in the skin, reducing production time from 10 days to just 24 hours. This breakthrough could lead to more effective cancer treatments and broader clinical applications.
Researchers used gene modification to deliver Interleukin 12 directly into glioma, a deadly type of brain cancer resistant to treatment. The study showed significant prolonged survival in mice and improved immune system's ability to infiltrate and kill tumor cells.
Engineers at Johns Hopkins University have developed a cost-effective method to speed up microchip communication by using light beams instead of metal wires. The new technology, known as silicon on sapphire, takes advantage of the unique properties of this material to reduce power consumption and increase data transfer speeds.
Researchers have characterized the structure of an Eph receptor tyrosine kinase bound to its corresponding ligand molecule, ephrin. This discovery provides a framework for developing potential drugs that could prevent cancer growth by blocking Eph signaling.
Researchers found that embryonic stem cells can survive in damaged heart muscle and improve cardiac function. The study demonstrated significant reduction of MI damage and improvement in left ventricular function, suggesting a potential future treatment option for congestive heart failure.
A study published in Diabetes Care found that stress management techniques, when added to standard care, helped reduce glucose levels in patients with type 2 diabetes. On average, the stress management group showed a 0.5 percent reduction on the hemoglobin A1c test.
A recent study found that most popular melanoma web sites had incomplete facts about the disease, with around one in eight sites having inaccuracies. The study suggests that Web users should be cautious when searching for health information online and guide themselves toward reputable sources.
Researchers at the new Center for Hazardous Substances in Urban Environments will develop tools to gauge risks associated with hazardous waste sites and clean up pollutants. The center's initiatives focus on urban livability and brownfield redevelopment, aiming to create jobs and improve tax bases while addressing environmental concerns.
Giant icebergs, unprecedented ice conditions, are posing a significant threat to Antarctic penguin colonies. The Adelie colony at Cape Crozier is expected to fail this year due to the destruction of their breeding area, while Emperor Penguin colonies are also struggling to raise chicks.
Researchers have found that immunoglobulin therapy significantly reduces symptoms of Stiff Person Syndrome (SPS), including stiffness and spasm, and improves mobility. The study showed a statistically significant decrease in symptoms for patients treated with IVIg, with 11 out of 14 patients becoming less stiff and more mobile.
A clinical trial of 109 patients found that coronary magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) accurately diagnosed coronary artery disease with an accuracy rate of 72% and specificity of 87%. The non-invasive test eliminates radiation exposure, infection risk, and hospital stay time, making it a promising diagnostic tool.
A new study by University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill reveals that many poor children live with strong physical and emotional pain due to barriers to dental care. The study found that language is a particular frustration for Latinos and minorities perceive prejudices against them, leading some to give up on seeking dental care.
Researchers found that certain drugs, including alcohol and cocaine, increase beta endorphin levels in the nucleus accumbens, a brain region influencing addiction. This discovery may lead to the development of medications targeting this system to help individuals overcome addiction.
Researchers found that steroid nasal sprays combined with antibiotics significantly improved sinusitis symptoms and reduced recovery time. A study of 95 adults with recurrent or chronic sinusitis reported a 93% cure rate using fluticasone, compared to 74% for placebo.
A study published in Diabetes Care found that diabetic women aged 50-75 years had lower rates of mammograms compared to control subjects, with 78.1% vs. 84.9% participation rates. The researchers suggest that the added burdens of caring for patients with diabetes may be a contributing factor.
A Mayo Clinic case study describes a patient with progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) who responded positively to HAART-cidofovir combination therapy, regaining mobility and daily functioning. The case contributes to growing data on effective treatment strategies for PML in AIDS patients.
Participation in leisure activities such as reading and socializing reduces risk of dementia by 38%. Intellectual activities show highest risk reduction, with an additional 8% benefit per activity engaged. High education and occupation levels also previously linked to reduced AD risk.
A collaborative study found that lifetime exposure to hormone replacement therapy (HRT) may be associated with better maintenance of cognitive function in older women free of dementia. The study included over 2,000 women aged 65 and older, who were followed for three years to assess changes in cognition and depression status.
A Mayo Clinic study found that current tobacco users and those with an alcohol problem history reported lower health scores and increased psychological distress compared to non-users. The study suggests a possible clinical implication for screening hospitalized patients for alcoholism.
Researchers use microarray technology to identify genes involved in DNA repair and other cellular processes in yeast. The method allows for rapid identification of gene functions, accelerating efforts to understand the role of genes in various biological processes.
Researchers believe that a single deficit in context processing, impaired by declining dopamine levels, may explain age-related cognitive declines. Studies showed older adults performed worse on tests requiring context processing, while younger adults did better.
A recent study suggests that users of the former Viadent formulation are eight to 11 times more likely to develop oral leukoplakia than those who have never used the product. Leukoplakia can sometimes lead to oral cancer, and patients with this condition should be alert for symptoms.
A study of 26,359 managers found that female managers' voluntary turnover rates were slightly lower than those of male managers. Recently promoted women were also less likely to resign than recently promoted men. Managers with graduate degrees who took family leaves were no more likely to resign than non-leave-taking managers.
Researchers developed a technique to stimulate T cells with CD28 receptors, making them resistant to HIV infection. The method showed significant improvements in the ratio of CD4 cells to other T cells, indicating sustained immune system recovery.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine found that bladder exstrophy causes more extensive pelvic girdle bone defects than previously known. The study reveals an outward flare of the hip bone and rotation of the entire pelvic girdle, impacting surgeons' understanding of these defects.
Researchers found that proteins produced by melanocytes trigger attacks on immune cells, leading to hair loss. The discovery could pave the way for more effective treatments for alopecia areata.
A recent analysis of 31 studies found that individuals with HSV-2 infection are twice as likely to contract HIV, with up to half of cases attributed to preceding HSV-2 infection. The study highlights the importance of controlling HSV-2 infection in preventing HIV acquisition.
A study published in Family Relations found that research-based strategies for helping older children establish a positive relationship with a new sibling are not getting sufficient emphasis in the popular press. The authors suggest that writers need to be better tuned into research and address issues important to families.
The American Society for Neuroregeneration and Transplantation (ASNTR) has published guidelines to ensure the development of novel cell and gene replacement therapies for brain disorders. The recommendations focus on preliminary study design, clinical trial methodology, and conflict of interest disclosure.
A NASA-funded study found that people's internal clocks have difficulty adapting to non-24 hour days, leading to increased risk of fatigue and sleepiness. The study, conducted at the National Space Biomedical Research Institute, evaluated participants' melatonin levels in response to varying day lengths.
A study suggests that minocycline, a common antibiotic, could be a potential therapy for multiple sclerosis. The drug showed promising results in rats with autoimmune encephalomyelitis, reducing neurologic dysfunction and disease severity.
A large international study found that passive smoking significantly increases the risk of respiratory symptoms, including nocturnal chest tightness and breathlessness. The prevalence of passive smoking in workplaces varied widely across countries, with some areas experiencing as much as 53.8% exposure.
Researchers found that increased concentrations of asymmetrical dimethylarginine (ADMA) are a strong predictor of death and cardiovascular disease in haemodialysis patients. Middle-aged men with normal kidney function also showed a higher risk of acute coronary events with high ADMA levels.
Scientists discover rare squid with thin tentacles, stretching up to ten times its body length. The finding suggests the creature is widespread and highlights scientists' depth of ignorance about deep oceans.
Researchers at the University of Washington have made significant progress in understanding how hydrogen atoms are transferred between molecules, a key step in creating new compounds. This breakthrough could lead to more efficient manufacturing methods, cleaner product development, and improved chemical reactions.
A study of 73 postmenopausal women found no significant changes in serum estrogen, cortisol, or follicle stimulating hormone levels after consuming soy protein for up to 6 months. Circulating thyroid hormone levels were modestly increased in those taking the highest dose of soy isoflavones.
The Kavli gift will enhance program flexibility and accommodate more scientists due to the institute's growing popularity. UCSB Chancellor Henry Yang praises the gift, calling it a 'lasting impact' on the scientific community.
The largest clinical trial ever of Parkinson's disease will be conducted by Professor Karl Kieburtz, with over 3,000 patients participating from 42 sites across North America. The five-year study aims to test the effectiveness of various substances in slowing disease progression.
Researchers found a significant link between sarcoidosis and family history, with affected individuals more likely to have siblings or parents with the disease. Air pollution during adolescence also affects lung function growth and performance, while improved HIV treatment reduces the risk of pulmonary complications.
Researchers have successfully created a novel chemical sensor based on an experimental physics phenomenon, allowing for the direct detection of molecules. This innovation has significant implications for various industrial applications, including manufacturing processes and environmental monitoring.
Researchers have identified a critical protein, SET7, that regulates gene expression by modifying histone H3. This discovery may lead to new treatments for diseases and provide insights into using stem cells to generate organs. The study reveals that SET7 makes chromatin structure more open, allowing other proteins to access genes.
Researchers created molecular-scale computing circuits that can carry out basic computing operations, paving the way for tiny but powerful machines. These circuits have the potential to translate conversations on the fly or diagnose illnesses quickly, and could provide computing power for decades to come.
A recent study published in The Lancet found that mentally ill patients are at a significantly higher risk of dying from homicide compared to the general population. The study analyzed data from over 72,000 individuals and revealed that those with mental illness were six times more likely to die by homicide.
A recent yellow fever outbreak in Guinea highlights insufficient international stocks of the 17D yellow fever vaccine, which can protect for at least 10 years. WHO recommends an emergency stockpile of 1 million doses to provide a rapid response to large outbreaks.
Researchers at Virginia Tech are exploring the development of new sensor approaches using nanotechnology, aiming to detect DNA and other biological compounds. They also aim to improve computational capacity by understanding electronic transport properties in molecular wires.
Harvard Medical School researchers have identified a key pathway controlling circadian rhythms in hamsters, revealing the signals sent by the body's internal clock and its connection to light exposure. The discovery opens new avenues for research into sleep disorders and could lead to improved treatments.
A protective protein called a chaperone suppresses the toxicity of alpha-synuclein, a protein associated with Parkinson's disease. The study found that augmenting levels of Hsp70 corrected the deficit and overcame the toxic effect of loss of chaperone function.
Researchers at Stanford Medicine developed a system to study genetics and evolution in natural populations using the three-spine stickleback fish. They found parallels between laboratory genetics and evolutionary changes in the fish, suggesting that evolution can occur through large-effect gene changes.
A recent study revealed that screening high-risk patients for diabetes may not be cost-effective, with a low yield and high cost. Additionally, a quality intervention to improve depression care was ineffective in real-world settings, highlighting the need for system changes to close care gaps.
A study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that diets high in red meat, such as high meat or high milk diets, are associated with a higher risk of stomach and esophageal cancers. Diets rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains may help reduce this risk.
A study published in the European Journal of Clinical Investigation found an association between nitrate levels in groundwater and the incidence of SIDS. The researchers analyzed over 600 cases and discovered that deaths occurred more frequently during periods of high nitrate concentrations, particularly in areas with rapidly increasin...
A $46,000 grant will aid in identifying and addressing environmental issues facing ten National Park units. Mary-Jane James-Pirri will conduct field assessments and compile literature to create a comprehensive document on wetland health and management.
A team of Penn researchers found that molecular chaperones can block the progression of neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson's by preventing neuronal decay in Drosophila melanogaster. The study suggests that activating these molecules may be an effective approach to treating several human neurodegenerative diseases.
Linoleic acid significantly induced mRNA transcripts of inflammatory genes, while oleic acid showed protective effects on arterial endothelial cells. This study highlights the importance of plasma fatty acid concentrations in vascular disease research.
Researchers at The Wistar Institute have identified a carefully orchestrated series of molecular modifications to p53 that must occur for it to perform its normal function. This discovery may suggest new ways to combat cancers where p53 is dysfunctional, and could also provide insights into the regulation of other DNA-binding proteins.