Researchers at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory found that visual stimulation causes neurons to sprout new branches, a process that requires increased activity of certain proteins and decreased activity of others. The study provides insights into how visual stimulation guides the development of normal brain architecture.
Studying genetically engineered mice that lack specific PDE4 subtypes, researchers found that inhibition of PDE4D mediates much of the emetic response. The study aims to develop subtype-specific inhibitors effective in airways without affecting other tissues.
Mice lacking a specific gene have reduced anxious behavior and increased sensitivity to brain's own endogenous neurosteroids. The findings suggest PKCe as a possible target for developing novel therapeutics for anxiety treatment.
A new UCSD study found that counseling services provided through state-funded quitlines significantly increase abstinence rates at 1, 3, 6 and 12 months. The research suggests that these programs can help a higher number of long-term quitters compared to those who do not use such services.
Researchers have discovered transposable elements in the malaria mosquito genome, which can be used to introduce new genes to block disease transmission. These elements can also serve as markers to distinguish between populations of mosquitoes with varying resistance levels.
A study of nearly 133,500 female California teachers found a 51% higher rate of breast cancer and 72% greater risk of endometrial cancer compared to comparable women. Researchers believe lifestyle and environmental factors may contribute to the increased risk.
A team of scientists has discovered that an Antarctic ice stream has reversed its flow over the past 250 years, a phenomenon that may be linked to long-term climate change. The study reveals that changes in the ice sheet's configuration have led to a shift in the flow direction, potentially impacting global sea levels.
A team of researchers from Vanderbilt University identified 276 genes in the Anopheles gambiae genome that code for G-protein-coupled receptors essential to the mosquito's senses. The study found 79 genes involved in its sense of smell and 72 in its taste, shedding light on the insect's strong preference for human hosts.
Scientists have identified a potential new target in the brain for anxiety-reducing medications, which may provide less disruptive alternatives to existing sedatives. By inhibiting a specific enzyme protein kinase C (PKC-epsilon), researchers hope to develop new treatments that can modulate GABA function without addictive side effects.
A study published in The New England Journal of Medicine found that a prehabilitation program improved balance, muscle strength, and mobility in physically frail elderly individuals. The program, which included physical therapy and resistance band exercises, significantly reduced disability scores compared to a health education group.
A new computer model suggests that regular visual inspections every five years can save lives and reduce costs compared to DNA testing or traditional Pap smears. In Thailand, where cervical cancer is a major public health concern, this low-tech screening strategy could be an effective and affordable solution.
Researchers have successfully synthesized clusters of fluorine-containing dendritic polymers that organize into tiny supramolecular cylinders. These nanocylinders display promising optoelectronic properties and can be used as donor- or acceptor groups, enabling the creation of novel electronic devices.
Researchers at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center discovered that cancer cells containing high levels of Myc protein cannot activate p21 gene production, leading to cell death. The study's findings suggest a potential strategy to increase chemotherapy effectiveness by favoring apoptosis over citostasis.
Two robotic gliders, Slocum Glider and Seaglider, will be tested operationally off Southern California this winter. The gliders harness changes in buoyancy or temperature layers to collect data on ocean currents, salinity, and biological sounds.
A new NASA-funded study reveals that human-caused land-use changes significantly contribute to climate change, potentially more so than greenhouse gas emissions. The research proposes a method for comparing different climate change factors, highlighting the importance of land surface changes in redistributing heat and affecting regiona...
A UC Berkeley study analyzed 27 clinical trials and found that combining Chinese herbal treatments with interferon alfa was 1.5-2 times more effective in reducing viral load than using interferon alfa alone. The most promising results came from patients using a combination of bufotoxin and kurorinone with interferon alfa.
Regular aerobic and weight-lifting activities can help diabetics control blood sugar and lower blood pressure, also providing cardiovascular benefits. Exercise training reduces total and abdominal fat, leading to improvements in insulin sensitivity, blood pressure, and blood vessel function.
Researchers found that a synthetic antioxidant, AEOL 10150, significantly reduced brain tissue destruction and neurological deficits in mice after stroke. The compound protected potentially salvageable tissue surrounding the damaged cells.
The MIT model provides predictive capabilities for understanding defect nucleation and growth, crucial for nanotechnology. It explains how defects like cracks or dislocations develop from waves in four stages, providing a key finding for materials science.
Researchers have found that neural stem cell transplants in mice improve specific components of motor function, but not cognitive abilities. The study suggests that neural stem cells could be a promising therapy for humans with traumatic brain injuries.
Rutgers University has been awarded $4.3 million by the NSF for the Maize Genome Sequencing Project, which aims to sequence the maize genome and understand its complex genetic structure. The project has the potential to improve crop yields and develop new approaches to genomic studies.
The OHSU team will develop three miniaturized ultrasound devices that can be inserted into the heart to provide treatment through a single catheter, eliminating the need for invasive surgeries and improving patient outcomes. The devices will feature Doppler imaging and high-frequency sound waves to detect and treat abnormal heart rhythms.
Dr. Babs Soller's team is working on a sensor system that can measure blood and tissue chemistry without the need for blood draws or incisions, providing accurate readings unaffected by skin color or body fat. The device has potential applications in space medicine, emergency rooms, ambulances, and exercise training.
Researchers found that minority children are over five times more likely to have their accidental injuries evaluated for child abuse compared to Caucasian children. However, when adjusted for likelihood of abuse, minority children were significantly more likely to receive a skeletal survey and be reported to child welfare authorities.
Researchers found a significant decrease in new HIV infections among injection drug users in Baltimore between 1988-1990 and 1995-1998, with rates dropping from 4.45% to 1.84%. Higher education, income, marriage, and social support were associated with reduced risk.
A recent UC Berkeley study contradicts earlier findings on girls with ADHD, revealing they are severely impaired academically and socially. The study, conducted over six weeks, found these girls have difficulty making friends, exhibiting aggressive behavior, and displaying social isolation.
A JAMA study found that pharmacist interventions significantly improved peak flow rates for patients with asthma, but not those who received standard care. The study also showed a notable decrease in breathing-related emergency department or hospital visits among the intervention group.
The American Chemical Society has awarded US Representative David Price for his efforts to advance science and technology in public policy. He has increased research funding at major agencies, strengthened science education, and promoted environmental protection through legislation.
Researchers Irwin Chaiken, Nouri Neamati, Alan C. Sartorelli, Nan-Sook Lee, Elias Lolis, and Min Lu received awards for their work on preventing HIV from infecting host cells, developing integrase inhibitors, and making current drugs more effective. The $500,000 award aims to encourage new approaches in HIV/AIDS therapy research.
A new software-based approach developed by Penn State engineers allows subscriber signals to be processed ahead of others experiencing strong co-channel interference, improving efficiency and minimizing interference in wireless local loops.
Rep. Jerry Lewis has been recognized for his advocacy of science and technology programs at the Department of Defense. His leadership has led to an increase in funding for defense science and technology since becoming chair of the House National Security Appropriations Subcommittee.
The University of New Hampshire has launched a biomedical research network, NH-BRIN, with a $5.6 million grant from the National Institutes of Health. The network aims to improve science understanding and capabilities in students and faculty across the state, enabling researchers to develop effective therapies and medicines.
Researchers found that patients with advanced prostate cancer treated with zoledronic acid experienced fewer bone complications and less pain compared to those who received a placebo. Additionally, tumors in patients treated with the HuMV833 antiangiogenic antibody showed marked differences in antibody uptake, distribution, and clearance.
The Avon Foundation has awarded $2.5 million in initial grants through its Progress for Patients program, supporting translational research on breast cancer at eight institutions. The grants focus on minority and underserved women, with a goal of closing the gap between discovery and delivery in breast cancer research.
A study in southern India found that selling a kidney led to a decline in economic and health status for the seller, with only 14% experiencing no negative effects. The findings contradict arguments in favor of financial incentives, suggesting they may deter organ donations instead.
Researchers have developed several low-cost environmental interventions to reduce noise in nursing homes, resulting in a 16-fold reduction in noise levels. These interventions include sound-absorbing panels, reducing TV noise by moving speakers to bed headboards, and experimenting with tiny speakers embedded in bed pillows.
A study found that a pharmacists' care program improved patients' lung function only slightly, and resulted in more hospital and ER visits. Despite the boost in patient satisfaction with their pharmacists, the modest effect on medical conditions and quality of life was disappointing.
A study found that visual inspection with acetic acid (VIA) and HPV DNA testing are less expensive alternatives to traditional Pap smear screening for cervical cancer in developing countries. VIA, performed every 5 years in women ages 35-55, was the least expensive approach and saved the most lives.
A randomized trial of breast self-examination (BSE) in Shanghai found no difference in breast cancer mortality between BSE and control groups. However, women taught BSE had more benign breast lesions detected during every year of the trial.
The Antarctic ozone hole is smaller than usual this September due to unusual stratospheric weather patterns. The researchers warn that a single year's pattern does not make a long-term trend, and the data are not conclusive that the ozone layer is recovering.
A UCSF study found that macrophages from human lymphoma patients can cause mouse lymphoma when injected into mice. This contradicts the current understanding of macrophages' role in fighting disease. The researchers believe HIV-infected macrophages can become neoplastic and stimulate lymphoma growth.
A randomized trial of simvastatin in 173 children with heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia found significant reductions in all cholesterol measures. The drug was well-tolerated and did not affect growth or pubertal development, making it a safe option for treating inherited high cholesterol in children.
Researchers found that everolimus reduced scar tissue growth in stents, preventing re-blockages by 46-40 percent. The oral medication shows promise as a treatment for restenosis and may reduce the need for stenting.
A study found that wearing contact lenses instead of glasses increased feelings of self-confidence and 'pulling power'. Volunteers who switched to contact lenses reported a significant increase in abilities, with many more likely to engage in social interactions, including hugging, kissing, and fondling.
A study published in Nature Genetics reveals a gene mutation underlying Amish microcephaly, a birth defect marked by a small head and brain size. The researchers found that the defect disrupts mitochondrial function, leading to abnormal brain development.
Researchers found that combining calcium scores and CRP levels can gauge the presence, amount, and stability of artery-clogging plaque. Elevated CRP levels were linked to increased risk of coronary events, while combined tests showed a six-fold difference in heart attack risk between high-risk and low-risk individuals.
Leading oncology experts emphasize the need for additional research among elderly cancer patients with co-morbid conditions and those taking multiple medications. They advocate for equal access to treatment options as younger patients, highlighting a lack of focus on this critical patient population.
Researchers found that FMRP associates with RNAi-related cellular machinery, suggesting a possible role for RNAi in regulating gene expression. This discovery may lead to an entirely new field of molecular human genetics, shedding light on the genetic causes of fragile X syndrome.
Researchers found that c-Myc is essential for tumor development by regulating blood vessel growth. The study suggests disrupting c-Myc may be a successful anti-angiogenic tool in cancer therapy, targeting tumors' vascular networks to slow growth.
Researchers at Los Alamos National Laboratory have developed a computer model of the E-coli ribosome, a cellular structure responsible for protein creation. This model has applications in developing new and powerful antibiotics against a range of pathogens, including those used in bioweapons agents.
Researchers at the University of Wisconsin-Madison have discovered a potent Vitamin D analog, known as 2MD, which significantly increases bone density in rats with osteoporosis. The compound has shown no apparent toxicity and may become an alternative to hormone replacement therapy.
Researchers have discovered that autoreactive B cells escape normal controls by proliferating and undergoing somatic hypermutation outside the germinal center, leading to the production of autoantibodies in autoimmune diseases like lupus. The study reveals a new understanding of how B cells contribute to the origins of these diseases.
The NIH has awarded a ten-year, $19 million contract to Chimp Haven to establish a chimpanzee sanctuary. The sanctuary will provide humane care for retired research chimpanzees and operate under standards established jointly by the NCRR advisory panel and the Chimp Haven Board of Directors.
Two studies found that patients with kidney disease are at increased risk of death after a heart attack, receiving less-aggressive treatment. Meanwhile, researchers report four cases of muscle damage caused by statins, highlighting the need for closer monitoring.
Researchers highlight the importance of selecting an antiemetic with low potential for drug interactions in elderly cancer patients. Granisetron, a 5HT3 receptor antagonist, is considered a safe choice due to its low risk of cardiovascular toxicity and adverse interactions.
Researchers have developed a new technique to detect corrupted tumor suppressor genes affected by DNA methylation, which could lead to new therapies. The study found that DNA methylation primarily affects different genes than those damaged by deletion or mutation, suggesting a previously unrecognized source of therapeutic targets.
Researchers tested clay to treat harmful algal blooms (HABs), removing 80-90% of toxins in laboratory experiments. The study also found Pfiestera piscicida, a bacterium affecting fish, may be widespread in oceans and sea bass.
Researchers have identified three new genes in a rhesus monkey rhadinovirus with high structural similarity to those in human herpesvirus-8, paving the way for future studies using recombinant viruses. The goal is to develop targeted drug therapies against specific KSHV genes to prevent virus spread and cancer induction.
The TRUST 2002 study found high resistance rates to penicillin (18.4%) and azithromycin (27.5%), but low levofloxacin resistance (<1%). Levofloxacin's minimal inhibitory concentrations did not correlate with those of other antibiotics.
A research team has visualized the interactions between molecular chaperones and protein aggregates, shedding light on how these protective proteins prevent disease. The study provides new insights into neurodegenerative diseases and could lead to the development of effective drugs.