The primer series provides a historical background of genetics and the sequencing of the human genome, as well as principles and methods in molecular biology. The authors highlight the potential benefits of the genomic revolution in understanding diseases such as cancer, heart disease, and Alzheimer's disease.
Researchers found a gene variant associated with abnormal heart rhythm in African Americans, affecting an estimated 4.6 million people. The SCN5A gene variant increases the risk of life-threatening arrhythmias when combined with other factors.
A recent study found that women with cardiac disease experience lower quality of life scores than men, regardless of diagnosis or treatment. Social support plays a crucial role in mitigating this disparity, particularly for physical health composite scores among men.
A study found that different social settings impact adolescent mental health, social behavior, and academic performance. Family quality has a strong joint effect with friend quality, while school and neighborhood quality are also linked.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins University have successfully created cartilage-like tissue using adult stem cells in a minimally invasive procedure. The technique involves injecting a fluid filled with stem cells and nutrients into damaged tissue, where it hardens into a stable gel that can be replaced by new bone or cartilage.
A study of 536 patients found that women reported poorer physical and psychological functioning after hospital treatment, with lower quality of life associated with feelings of loneliness. The absence of social support was a key factor in this difference, highlighting the importance of friendship and companionship for women's well-being
The Tumucumaque Mountains National Park, covering 9,562,770 acres, protects pristine forests and endangered species like jaguars, giant anteaters, and harpy eagles. The park ensures the conservation of biodiversity in the Brazilian Amazon.
A recent study found that the federal government's E/M coding system for Medicare has poor agreement among coding specialists, resulting in overbilling. The system's complexity and lack of precision lead to inconsistent coding practices.
CWRU scientists discover that applying magnesium to calcium-activated potassium channels reduces blood pressure by causing blood vessels to dilate. This research may help explain why magnesium supplements are effective in managing hypertension.
A recent study by American Psychological Association found that ecstasy users scored high in most of the coping strategies, including social support networks and increased activities, to cope with loneliness. This suggests that the drug may be used as a temporary solution for young adults struggling with feelings of isolation.
Children who avoided drinking milk in early life have low dietary calcium intakes and poor bone health, including significantly smaller bones and a higher incidence of fractures. The study highlights the importance of increasing calcium intake in growing skeletons to mitigate these effects.
A study by Ohio State University found that procrastinators receive poorer grades in college classes due to lack of self-discipline. The researchers discovered that high procrastinators scored lower in measures of self-regulation and used 'wishful thinking' rationalizations to justify their behavior.
A study found that approximately 40% of rejected lungs might have been suitable for transplantation, highlighting the need for re-evaluation of donor selection criteria. This could lead to an increase in the number of available lungs for transplantation, addressing a potential shortage in lung transplantation.
Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center have identified a gene, HDAC9, that limits abnormal heart-muscle growth. The study shows that HDAC9 restricts cardiac growth in response to stress but does not affect normal growth during development or exercise.
A new instrument, PILS, automates aerosol sampling and provides more detailed time-dependent information on atmospheric pollutants. This allows scientists to make frequent measurements, revealing previously unknown morning and afternoon peaks in pollutant levels.
Researchers are studying the manatee virus to develop an approach to fighting cervical cancer in humans. The manatee immune system is being studied to gain a better understanding of diseases like HIV/AIDS.
A Global Development Organisation is necessary to overcome barriers to global development, including fragmentation, strategic incoherence, and resource overconsumption. The organisation would aim to set standards for best practice, avoid duplication of work, and hold institutions accountable for their impact on development.
Despite expected global warming impacts, a NASA study reveals an increase in Antarctic sea ice coverage, with the area lengthening by at least one day per year spanning around 5.6 million square kilometers.
A gene found in some people of African descent may increase the chance of irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia), which can be lethal in rare cases. Precautions such as taking alternative diuretics and staying hydrated during exercise may help reduce risk, say researchers.
A study found that childhood body mass index (BMI) values are strongly linked to adult overweight or obesity. Younger children with higher BMI-for-age had a greater risk of becoming overweight as adults. The authors recommend monitoring children in the ≥ 85th percentile of BMI for age to prevent weight management issues.
Researchers found that male lions are intimidated by longer manes, while females prefer darker-maned males. Darker manes also correlate with higher testosterone levels, which may be an advantage for attracting mates and defending territories. Despite this, there is no correlation between mane length and temperature regulation.
Researchers at University of Illinois Chicago have discovered a way to render cancer cells more susceptible to immunological attacks and chemotherapy. By inserting the E1A gene into malignant cells, they can prevent tumor cells from blocking immune defenses, paving the way for new treatments.
Researchers found HIV integrates into human chromosomes near active genes, which are triggered by the virus itself. This targeting specificity could improve gene therapies by leveraging a retrovirus's efficiency.
A systematic review found that ear thermometry is not a reliable method for measuring infants' body temperature, with wide individual differences and potential overestimation or underestimation of temperatures. This raises concerns about the accuracy of fever detection and precise temperature measurement in clinical settings.
A new study found that the increased pain following exercise in osteoarthritis patients is short-lived, typically subsiding by evening. This insight can help patients cope with temporary increases in pain and stick to exercise programs for long-term benefits.
A study led by Mark T. Keating found that 13.2% of African-Americans carry an altered form of the SCN5A gene, linked to prolonged contraction of heart muscle cells and arrhythmia risk. The variant can be detected through simple tests, allowing for preventive measures such as avoiding certain medications and monitoring potassium levels.
Dr. Sharon Cobb is leading the development of a Materials Science Research Rack on the International Space Station, which will allow scientists to study material properties in low-gravity conditions. The rack's furnaces will be used to melt and solidify various materials, with data collected for characterization on Earth.
A study highlights the need for UK childhood screening for amblyopia, finding that effective treatment can prevent incapacitating vision loss later in life. The research also suggests a lower risk of visual improvement among adults, emphasizing the importance of early detection and treatment.
Researchers found that 40% of rejected lungs could have been candidates for transplantation, more than doubling the number of potentially suitable donor lungs. The study highlights the need for a prospective assessment of selection of donors for lung transplantation to potentially save thousands of lives.
A study of pregnant women found that those consuming high levels of DHA during pregnancy had infants with more mature sleep patterns, characterized by lower active to quiet sleep ratios and less sleep-wake transition time. Breastfed infants also showed improved neurological development compared to formula-fed infants.
Researchers seek compounds to inhibit angiogenesis, a common cause of vision loss. A new class of anti-angiogenic molecules has shown promise in pre-clinical studies, with 70% inhibition in 100% of cases.
Consuming whole grains daily can lower incidence of type 2 diabetes, particularly in non-obese men. High fiber and magnesium content in whole grains slows glucose release and improves insulin response, leading to reduced risk.
A new compound derived from baker's yeast has been shown to significantly increase the survival rate of mice infected with lethal anthrax spores. The study found that mice treated with the compound survived at a rate of 75-100%, compared to just 30-50% in mice given a placebo.
Researchers have determined the age of the oldest known meteorite impact on Earth, a catastrophic event that generated massive shockwaves billions of years before the dinosaur extinction. The ancient meteorite is estimated to be approximately 12 miles wide and was buried in rocks formed during the Archean eon.
A recent study found that almost 50% of children between three to ten years old who avoided cow's milk for four months or more had suffered one or more fractures. The researchers discovered that these children often had low bone density and were short and overweight, suggesting a link between milk avoidance and poor bone health.
A new Medicines Information Helpline has been launched in the UK to provide independent expert advice on medicines for patients with Parkinson's disease. The helpline, staffed by experienced pharmacists, aims to address the need for reliable information on medication management for this growing population.
Researchers at Magee-Womens Research Institute found that the pregnancy hormone relaxin increases nitric oxide production in blood vessels, leading to improved blood flow. This discovery may lead to new treatments for high blood pressure and cardiovascular diseases.
Researchers have discovered that certain types of naturally occurring carbohydrates in the body may cause rheumatoid arthritis by triggering an immune response and leading to inflammation and joint damage. The study found that glycosaminoglycans, a major component of joint cartilage and skin, activate inflammatory cells in the joints.
Researchers at The Wistar Institute have discovered a link between neurofibromatosis and Alzheimer's disease, with the shared protein kinesin-1 playing a pivotal role in protein trafficking. This finding opens new avenues for investigation into both diseases, providing insights into vital cellular processes.
Researchers Deane and Stokes developed a new depiction of bubble sizes and creation processes using acoustical and optical observations. They found that bubble size distribution follows two distinct mechanisms, one for small and large bubbles.
Researchers have developed a new antibacterial coating using selenium that can kill bacteria and extend contact lens wear time. The coating, which is only one molecule thick, has shown promising results in rabbits, with no ill effects after two consecutive months of wear.
The study provides a comprehensive understanding of the proteome of D. radiodurans, revealing new insights into its remarkable ability to withstand radiation and degrade radioactive materials. The research used advanced mass spectrometry techniques to identify over 1,900 proteins in the bacterium.
Researchers found elevated levels of ceramides and cholesterol esters in spinal cords of people with ALS, leading to motor neuron degeneration. Treating these lipids with a drug called ISP-1 may prevent this process.
Researchers at University College London have discovered a potential new cancer treatment using compounds found in cola beverages, coffee, tea, and chocolate. The compounds block the operation of a key enzyme linked to cell growth and blood clotting.
George Kauffman, a renowned Fresno chemist, has won the ACS Helen M. Free Award for his outstanding contributions to public outreach in chemistry. With over 1750 scientific papers and 16 books on science for general readers, Kauffman is celebrated for his work in making chemistry accessible to the public.
A new study by Oregon State University researchers found that removing any one species from a marine food web can have devastating effects, leading to population collapse and regional extinction. The study's findings highlight the importance of preserving biodiversity in marine ecosystems.
A new compound, ajulemic acid, is being tested for its effectiveness in treating chronic pain, arthritis, and multiple sclerosis. Results from animal studies have shown promising results, and the compound has been found to be safe and effective with minimal side effects.
Researchers have developed a new agent using phage enzymes that can specifically target and eliminate millions of anthrax bacteria within seconds. This targeted killer also shows promise as an anthrax detection and decontamination tool, with potential applications in mailrooms or subway stations.
Researchers at the Max Planck Institute of Biophysics have determined the first structure of the SecYEG protein translocation machinery from Escherichia coli. The structure provides a detailed view of the complex, which binds and transports secretory and membrane proteins.
The Purdue team has developed a new type of antenna that can detect a single molecule using electromagnetic radiation. This innovation could lead to detectors millions of times more sensitive than current technology, with potential applications in medical diagnostics and homeland security.
A recent study published in JAMA found that ginkgo biloba provides no measurable benefit in memory, attention, or concentration in healthy older adults. The study, conducted by researchers at Williams College, tested the effects of ginkgo on memory and cognitive function in 230 volunteers over 60.
Researchers found that mutations in muscle-cell caveolin cause defective filament assembly, leading to weakened pelvic- and shoulder-girdle muscles. Caveolae play a vital role in spatially organizing signal transduction at the cell surface.
A UGA research study discovered that genetic diversity is vital for maintaining ecosystem balance. The study found that reduced genetic biodiversity affects an ecosystem's predictability and nutrient release, highlighting the importance of conserving both species and genetic diversity.
The COSMIC satellite network will collect a global, 3-D data set, improving analyses of both weather and climate change. The satellites will probe the atmosphere using radio occultation to track temperature in the upper atmosphere and measure high-altitude electron density.
A study of nearly 22,000 infants found that only one case of seizures was linked to a low Apgar score and high umbilical cord acid levels. Seizures were common in babies born weighing less than 3.3 pounds, affecting 6% of those cases.
Scientists found that herpes virus uses regulators of complement activation (RCA) to evade the immune system. The study reveals that complement plays a crucial role in controlling persistent and latent infection, contradicting previous assumptions.
Scientists at the University of Massachusetts have developed a way to grow colonies of mutated head lice in a laboratory setting. This allows them to examine the biochemical and molecular mechanisms of resistance and monitor the frequency of mutations that cause resistance.
Dr. Vladimir Voevodsky and Madhu Sudan received the prestigious awards for their innovative contributions to algebraic geometry, number theory, computer science, and probabilistically checkable proofs.
A study found that St. John's wort significantly lowers blood levels of irinotecan's active metabolite SN-38 by 42%, decreasing detoxification and reducing overall antitumor activity. Patients receiving chemotherapeutic treatments with St. John's wort may need to increase drug dosage.
A new study published in Ambulatory Pediatrics found a strong correlation between social class and childhood health, with lower-income children experiencing greater symptoms of physical and mental illness. In contrast, higher-income children exhibited better risk-avoidance behaviors.