A global consensus on histopathological diagnostic criteria for Parkinson's disease is within reach thanks to an interactive website. NMDA receptor antagonists failed to show efficacy in clinical trials of stroke and traumatic brain injury, but lessons learned will guide new developments.
Researchers at UNC Chapel Hill used nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy to study the effects of crowded environments on protein shape. They found that intrinsically unstructured proteins exhibit a definite folded-up shape when inside cells, unlike their apparent lack of structure in water solutions.
Cosmologists suggest universe may collapse in 10-20 billion years due to dark energy, reversing the popular view of a runaway universe. The Stanford team's model predicts the universe will slow down and contract, leading to a cosmic 'big crunch',
A recent study by OHSU suggests that hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can lead to improved breast cancer detection and survival rates. The research found that HRT users had a 100% survival rate after six years, compared to an 87% survival rate for non-users.
Researchers found that invasive ants build shelters for mealybugs, allowing them to feed safely. The mealybugs produce a significant amount of honeydew, providing 32% of the daily energy for fire ant colonies.
Research suggests that diet is a second leading cause of cancer, accounting for approximately 30% of cancers in developed countries. A healthy weight, restricted alcohol consumption, and a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and cereals can help reduce cancer risk.
The study explores how older widowed women in Britain transition to becoming 'women alone', finding a new sense of confidence and self-sufficiency through personal growth and engaging in new activities.
Researchers found that beta-secretase activity is increased in Alzheimer's diseased brains, specifically in temporal and frontal cortex. This increase persists throughout the duration of the illness, making BACE a promising target for treatment, even late in the disease.
A University of Florida study found that married individuals, particularly whites, are less likely to recommit crimes. In contrast, unmarried men, including those from minority groups, are more likely to engage in criminal activity due to the lack of structured schedules and employment.
Researchers at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory confirmed that waters migrating from the surface to the water table in drier regions can take many tens of thousands of years. These waters, which began their migration at the last ice age, hold a scientific and historical record of global climate change.
Researchers successfully immobilized an enzyme called organophosphorus hydrolase, nearly doubling its activity levels. The breakthrough could lead to the development of novel sensor and decontamination systems for homeland security and environmental protection.
A study by Nikola Pavletich and colleagues reveals that BRCA2 protein binds to damaged DNA, repairing it. This discovery sheds light on the mechanism of breast cancer development and opens new avenues for treatment strategies.
Despite a state budget crisis and terrorism, Virginia remains positive in its assessment of the state's qualities. Virginians report satisfaction with friendships, family relationships, education, medical care, retirement options, and vacations.
A new study published in Obstetrics and Gynecology found that oral contraceptive use during adolescence is not associated with weight gain or increased body fat. Researchers monitored 66 female participants, aged 16-21, for four years, tracking their blood lipid patterns and body composition.
The National Human Genome Research Institute (NHGRI) has upgraded the priority of cow, dog, Oxytricha trifallax, and Trichoplax genomes to high or moderate based on medical and biological opportunities. The genome sequences are expected to speed up studies of these agriculturally important animals and have medical benefits for dogs.
Scientists have unraveled the mystery of membrane fusion, a process crucial for gene therapy and drug delivery. By analyzing X-ray diffraction patterns, researchers revealed that membrane fusion begins with an hourglass-shaped structure called a stalk.
A new study reveals three distinct species of African elephants: savanna, forest, and west African. The west African population has been diverging for over two million years and is threatened with extinction due to human activities.
A Cornell University project explores the complex relationship between Kenyan small farmers, their communities, and the land they depend on. The research highlights the devastating effects of soil degradation, leading to reduced crop productivity and increased poverty. Understanding social and cultural factors is crucial in addressing ...
Head lice are becoming increasingly resistant to specialized shampoos, with 50-98% remaining after treatment. Researchers use artificial 'scalp' to study the pests on a genetic and molecular level, seeking alternative treatments.
Children's Hospital researchers estimate national costs associated with bicycle handlebar-related injuries, which can result in lengthy hospital stays and long-term disability. The study recommends adopting safer designs and educating parents on choosing and maintaining bicycles to minimize the risk of such injuries.
A home-based preschool program in South Carolina has shown significant improvement in disadvantaged children's school readiness and academic performance. The program, which provided twice-weekly visits to families from low-income backgrounds, resulted in higher test scores compared to the general population.
Researchers uncovered characteristics of faults that move backwards, contrary to conventional observations, and found the material within faults is significantly different than its surroundings. The study provides a new way to identify potentially active faults and better understand the earthquake process.
Researchers have discovered a key molecule involved in regulating the immune system that may contribute to stomach cancer. Mutations to this molecule, gp130, induced cellular changes reminiscent of early gastric cancer in mice, highlighting a potential new target for treatment.
Researchers identified 216 'stemness' genes that are active in embryonic, neural, and hematopoietic stem cells. These genes are involved in coping with stress, signaling, and self-renewal, and can aid in developing techniques to induce stem cells to differentiate into specific adult cells.
A recent clinical trial found that tamoxifen reduces the frequency of breast cancer by a third in women at increased risk. However, tamoxifen use also increases the risk of blood-clotting complications, which may contribute to higher death rates.
Researchers observe temporary structure during membrane fusion, forming hourglass-shaped stalk connecting two membranes. This discovery may lead to understanding of viral infection and designing new drug delivery methods.
Researchers at Princeton University identified a core set of genes responsible for regulating stem cell behavior and unique activities. The study also uncovered over 4,000 genes active in surrounding tissues that influence stem cell behavior.
Researchers found that using a mesh patch for large hiatal hernias results in no recurrence of the condition, marking a significant improvement over traditional surgical methods. This breakthrough study provides new hope for patients with large hiatal hernias, offering an effective and lower-risk treatment option.
Researchers at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center have uncovered the function of the BRCA2 protein, which interacts directly with DNA to repair genetic damage. This new understanding sheds light on how mutations in the BRCA2 gene contribute to inherited breast and ovarian cancers.
Researchers at Purdue University have found that chlorine dioxide gas is highly effective in killing bacteria on food surfaces, particularly Listeria monocytogenes. The study showed significant reductions in bacterial populations on apple skin, stem cavity, and calyx using the gas.
Researchers found that benzene derivatives have higher neurotoxic potency than previously thought. The study suggests related aromatic chemicals may also damage the nervous system, with potential applications as a biological marker of exposure.
In Angola, displaced people turn to family members, neighbours, and church groups for advice and consolation in the form of conselho. This community-based approach emphasizes shared suffering and practical help over Western-style counseling. Local perspectives are crucial for culturally relevant psychosocial interventions.
The National Functional Genomics Project aims to track genetic changes in cancer to design more effective therapeutic agents and understand hereditary and environmental influences. Moffitt's expertise in translational research will accelerate the translation of molecular medicine into early detection and clinical treatment.
A randomized multicenter trial of 840 patients with severe heart attacks found no difference in mortality between pre-hospital fibrinolysis and emergency angioplasty. Despite this, experts advocate for early intervention with antiplatelet therapy and primary PTCA, regardless of hospital proximity.
Bipolar disorder is associated with high rates of substance abuse, with 60% of patients using stimulants. Dual-diagnosis patients require increased hospitalization and have poorer treatment response. Researchers are studying medications to reduce drug cravings and usage.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine have successfully created a biologic pacemaker using gene therapy in guinea pigs. The new pacemaker allows heart cells to regulate their own rhythm, potentially providing an alternative to traditional electronic pacemakers for patients at high risk of infection or with limited space for implantation.
Researchers from Leiden discovered that vitamins C and E can prevent breathing problems in patients after surgery by reducing the impact of sedatives and painkillers. The study found that stress and pain play a significant role in maintaining alertness, which may help counteract breathing issues.
A new soot filter for diesel engines has been developed, featuring a series of perforated ceramic foams that can absorb large quantities of ash before becoming blocked. The filter's design is based on studies of diesel particle structure and fractal geometry.
A recent terror warning highlights the potential danger of laptops and electronic devices on planes, sparking calls for improved security measures. Researchers like Uber advocate for airline monitoring systems to detect interfering signals inside aircraft cabins.
Researchers found that increased nighttime systolic blood pressure is predictive of microalbuminuria and kidney disease in type 1 diabetes patients. The study suggests that this early warning sign may help prevent unnecessary therapies.
Researchers at Imperial College London identified a neural signal called WNT-3 that helps form connections between sensory and motor neurons in the spinal cord. The discovery has important implications for understanding neural regeneration following spinal injury.
Researchers at Michigan State University and the Cancer Research UK London Research Institute found a way for an enzyme to repair DNA using iron and oxygen, bypassing oxidation. This discovery offers possibilities for understanding biological functions and combating diseases such as cancer and aging.
Research reveals DNA's chaotic movements limit its electrical conductivity, making it challenging for scientists to develop new molecular microelectronics. A fixed double-helix structure would improve DNA's ability to initiate reactions through charge transfer.
A two-year study by psychologists from Tilburg University found that introvert persons are more likely to become tired at work due to their workload and perception of busyness. The study also showed that physical and mental tiredness are closely linked, highlighting the importance of including both in workplace investigations.
Researchers found that stressed carp are easily infected by the single cell parasite Trypanoplasma borreli due to high levels of cortisol. The study revealed that cortisol inhibits crucial proteins that protect fish from parasites, rendering them more susceptible to infection.
Alexander Raikhel, a UC Riverside researcher, has received a $4.3 million NIH grant to study the regulation of genes in mosquitoes. Understanding these mechanisms could lead to developing means to interrupt disease transmission cycles and prevent mosquito-borne illnesses like West Nile virus and Dengue Fever.
The Waddenzee's water quality has changed significantly over the past 140 years, with a doubling of freshwater quantity contributing to increased nutrient levels. This shift affects species composition and plankton growth, with algal blooms continuing to increase.
The European Molecular Biology Laboratory highlights the potential for genomic research to combat tropical diseases. However, commercial interest in developing treatments has been limited, and it will be necessary to combine efforts from not-for-profit organizations and private funds to support research in developing countries.
Researchers aim to compress images for small mobile agents, reducing power requirements and enabling wireless data transmission in confined spaces. Successful technology advances could benefit search and rescue operations, soldiers' field communications, and micro-air vehicles.
A nationwide longitudinal study of psychological responses to September 11 found that six months after the attacks, effects continued throughout the country among individuals not directly affected. Those with preexisting mental or physical health difficulties and greater exposure to the attacks showed continued stress symptoms over time.
A five-year project will study the effects of rural life on children's development, focusing on competence, family factors, and community characteristics. The study will follow over 1,400 subjects from selected rural counties in North Carolina and Pennsylvania.
A new DNA typing method has been developed to help identify human remains that cannot be matched with the current protocol. The technique, called a 'miniplex,' uses a smaller set of reliable DNA markers to study tiny pieces of genetic material and could aid law enforcement in solving cases across the country.
Researchers have developed new aerogel nanocomposites that are 100 times more resistant to breakage and almost totally insensitive to moisture. The materials could be used for a variety of applications including building insulation, impact-resistant automobile bumpers and lighter aircraft frames.
Researchers found African-Americans are two to four times more likely to undergo lower limb amputations, with higher rates among above-knee amputations. The study highlights the need for further investigation into underlying causes and public health initiatives to alleviate excess risk of limb loss.
A recent study reveals that nearly 25% of adults with disabilities are obese, compared to 15% without disabling conditions. Adults with lower limb mobility difficulties face the highest risk and often lack exercise counseling from their physicians.
The Darwin Correspondence Project has published 12 of a projected 32-volume set of Darwin's letters, shedding light on his evolutionary ideas. The project is sending these volumes back to the Charles Darwin Research Station in the Galapagos, where Darwin's research began.
A five-year initiative led by Partnership for Biodiversity Informatics will enhance researchers' global access to data and information. The project aims to locate relevant data sets, utilize distributed computational services, and exercise new analysis methods.
Researchers at Cornell University discovered a previously undetected gene that regulates insect sex-pheromone production, leading to rapid evolution of chemical systems and new species emergence. The delta-14 gene allows females to change their pheromone components, attracting only one male out of 200 with the same response.
A nationwide study led by Roxane Cohen Silver found that individuals who disengaged from coping efforts after the 9-11 attacks were more likely to experience poor psychological outcomes. The study revealed that even those not directly affected by the attacks continued to experience anxiety about future terrorist attacks.
Researchers found that the quality of a male bird's learned song is linked to its attractiveness to females, who prefer well-copied wild-type songs. The study suggests that females use song-learning ability as an indicator of male quality and provides insight into the role of traits learned by males in sexual success.