Researchers at Rockefeller University have developed a novel approach to combating antibiotic-resistant infections by using a natural enzyme derived from tiny viruses that live inside bacteria. This enzyme can target and kill disease bacteria on the surface of cells, providing an alternative method for combating resistant pathogens.
The ACCESS study confirms that Atacand improves outcomes for patients with acute ischaemic stroke and high blood pressure. Early treatment with Atacand reduces the risk of total mortality, cerebral complications, and cardiovascular complications by 47.5 percent.
A team of researchers led by Jeannie T. Lee has identified the CTCF protein as a central regulator of X-chromosome inactivation, sparking new insights into the mechanism behind this process. The discovery sheds light on how the developing embryo chooses which X chromosome to inactivate.
Natural history museums are critical forces for understanding and conserving the world's biological diversity. They must focus on conservation, make collections accessible, collect and disseminate information faster, engage local communities, and promote science-based advocacy to advance conservation goals.
Research suggests that a single enzyme, 11beta hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 1 (11 beta HSD-1), is involved in the accumulation of visceral fat and metabolic symptoms. Increasing this enzyme's activity in fat cells leads to obesity, diabetes, and other diseases.
A systematic review in The Lancet estimates that six people would need to be detained for a year to prevent one violent act, raising concerns about the accuracy of forecasting dangerousness. Critics warn that this approach threatens to assume an Orwellian air, with psychiatry becoming increasingly coercive.
A population-based study in Western Australia suggests that folate and iron supplementation during pregnancy may reduce the risk of childhood acute lymphoblastic leukaemia by up to 60%. The protective effect was found to vary little with time of first use or duration of supplementation.
The survey found that women are strong, knowledgeable, and pragmatic in the face of terrorist threats, with concerns focused on economic vulnerability and health care. Women's mental health is also impacted by the fear of terrorism and bio-terrorist attacks, with many reporting anxiety, difficulty sleeping, and lack of energy.
Researchers found dramatic erosion of frosty layers on Mars' south pole, suggesting global climate change. The Martian snow is dense and ice-like, and its seasonal cycle affects the planet's long-term climate and atmosphere.
UC Davis researchers have captured the critical information needed to reproduce actual sounds as each listener perceives them. By analyzing changes in sound waves as they bounce off surfaces and ears, the team has developed personalized software and hardware for spatially accurate sound reproduction.
Government-mandated folic acid fortification has improved red blood cell folate levels by more than expected, benefiting women of childbearing age and other populations. This increase is also linked to reduced homocysteine levels, a risk factor for vascular disease, heart attacks, strokes, and certain cancers.
Researchers have discovered that male orangutans engage in homosexual behavior in the wild, a phenomenon previously only observed among captive animals. This finding highlights the complexity of primate social behavior and challenges existing assumptions about great ape sexuality.
A biomedical engineer has developed a 'sonic flashlight' that combines ultrasound images with the patient's natural appearance, enabling doctors to guide procedures without looking away. This technology could improve hand-eye coordination and reduce learning curves for radiologists.
A study found that recreational boating can transport zebra mussels via entangled aquatic weeds, engine cooling systems, and live wells. The risk of spread to new water bodies is significant due to the high volume of transient boat traffic.
A study published in Science found no new neurons in the neocortex of adult monkeys, contradicting previous reports. Researchers used advanced imaging techniques to analyze thousands of cells and conclude that mechanisms other than neurogenesis may be needed to understand brain function.
Researchers developed a superoxide dismutase (SOD) mimetic that substantially reduced cartilage and bone erosion, as well as chronic inflammation, in a standard animal model. The SOD mimetic also significantly reduced elevated levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines TNF-α and IL-1β.
A new study suggests that tiny aerosols from human-produced pollution can weaken the global hydrological cycle, affecting water availability and quality. The research, published in Science, reveals that these particles can limit sunlight reaching the ocean, leading to reduced rainfall over polluted regions.
Scientists discover that the Math1 gene triggers the differentiation of three types of intestinal cells from stem cells, including goblet, enteroendocrine, and Paneth cells. This finding provides significant insights into the regulatory control of intestinal stem cells and their role in disease treatment.
The US government is investing in bioterrorism research through seven new initiatives, aiming to develop vaccines and treatments for diseases like anthrax and smallpox. The initiatives will also support basic research and partnerships between academia, industry, and government.
A new malaria vaccine, RTS,S/AS02, has demonstrated significant protection against natural P. falciparum infection in a randomised trial. The vaccine showed an overall efficacy of 34% after three doses, with increased effectiveness seen when a fourth dose was administered a year later.
A study of 250 primary-care patients found that infections like glandular fever can trigger chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS), while mood disorders are predicted by factors such as psychiatric history and social adversity. Early physical activity may help prevent or treat CFS after infectious mononucleosis.
A Canadian study found that only 11% of critically ill patients in ICUs have explicit directives guiding resuscitation. The study identified factors associated with DNR directives, including age and patient condition.
The UNC-Chapel Hill Gene Therapy Center will use the funds to translate basic research knowledge into safe human clinical trials, with a focus on cystic fibrosis and hemophilia. The center aims to provide new treatments for diseases caused by single-gene defects.
A study found that mothers who perceive their small babies as difficult are less involved and responsive, leading to lower developmental test scores. However, infants born small for gestational age show a stronger link between early temperament and parental behavior, emphasizing the importance of sensitive interaction.