Researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital have identified a common immune system pathway shared by humans and worms, which could lead to therapies for chronic inflammatory diseases and other conditions. The study uses the C. elegans nematode worm as a model organism to investigate innate immunity.
John Uri, a NASA scientist, has led research on the International Space Station since childhood. He oversaw 52 investigations in various scientific disciplines, including medical research and material science.
A 7-week dietary intervention found that omega-3 supplements increased systemic arterial compliance by 36% with EPA and 27% with DHA. Both groups also showed significant declines in plasma total triacylglycerol concentrations, suggesting a potential benefit for heart health.
A team of researchers led by Hongxing Liu from Texas A&M University is analyzing remotely sensed data from the Lambert ice sheet to understand its role in global climate change. The study will help determine how glaciers respond to changes in the climate and provide clues about the potential impact on sea levels.
The new Center for Dietary Supplement Research at the University of Iowa will investigate the health benefits and safety of Echinacea and St. John's wort. This research aims to advance knowledge on botanicals, including their effectiveness, safety, and biological action.
A meta-analysis of 320 studies found substantial overlap between learning disabled and non-disabled children experiencing reading difficulties. The researchers argue that using IQ discrepancy as a criterion for establishing learning disability can lead to unequal access to services.
Researchers have discovered how certain sugars on the surface of H. pylori bacteria help the immune system fight infection, but also make it worse. The findings provide new prospects for developing a vaccine against this virulent bug that causes ulcers and stomach cancer.
Researchers found that Helicobacter pylori infection leads to mild inflammation, triggering the production of sialyl-di-Lewis x sugar molecule on stomach cells. The bacteria then latch onto this molecule using a previously unknown adhesin protein, worsening inflammation and increasing survival chances.
A new study by Cornell University researchers found that academic couples who work together are happier and more successful in balancing their work and family lives. Co-working men, especially those with dependent children, report greater family success and less negative stress from home to work.
Researchers found that anorectic drug d-FEN activates melanocortin neurons, linking serotonin system to obesity and anorexia. The discovery proposes a new mechanism for treating eating disorders and obesity.
A study found that consuming soy protein-rich diets can lower total cholesterol and LDL levels, improving cardiovascular health. The effect was seen in both men and women, with no significant difference between high- and low-isoflavone diets.
A study found that high whole-grain consumption was associated with lower rates of type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Participants who consumed more whole grains had healthier lifestyle habits, including a lower waist-to-hip ratio, less saturated fat, and more fruits and vegetables.
Recent research suggests that West Antarctic ice streams are experiencing normal variability, contrary to predictions of imminent shutdown and sea-level rise. The study found that local conditions, such as geothermal heat and frictional forces, drive the slowdown or speeding up of ice streams.
A three-year grant awarded by EPA aims to develop a scientific way to accurately estimate pesticide exposure among children, especially farmworker sons and daughters. Researchers use novel methods like videotaping children at home to quantify real-life exposure to pesticide residues.
Researchers discover that a platelet molecule called phosphatidylserine plays a key role in activating the final step of blood coagulation. The finding could lead to new treatments for clotting disorders, such as heart attacks and strokes.
Researchers have developed a computer model to visualize gravitational waves produced by black-hole mergers, providing insight into Einstein's theory of general relativity. The model predicts that the waves will be relatively weak until moments before the merger, culminating in a thunderous impact.
A school program called CATCH significantly increased moderate to vigorous physical activity, decreased fat in meals, and reduced sodium content. The program's effects were more pronounced than expected, with substantial increases in physical activity levels.
Researchers measured the chemical reactions and light emission from a single water bubble excited by sound waves, finding temperatures high enough to break water molecules apart. The experiment showed that only a small fraction of sound energy is converted into light, with most energy going into mechanical energy.
Researchers at McGill University have made a significant breakthrough in profiling the yeast genome, creating a comprehensive scale for genetic manipulation. This achievement could ultimately lead to the discovery of better drugs for treating human diseases, including certain forms of cancer.
Researchers at the University of Illinois have developed a new molecular imprinting process to create artificial antibodies. The technique involves imprinting a single molecule within a highly branched polymer called a dendrimer, allowing for specific binding and rejection of target molecules. This breakthrough has potential applicatio...
Researchers at Case Western Reserve University are developing an innovative drug delivery device using liposomes to target damaged areas of arteries in cardiovascular disease. The device aims to improve treatment outcomes and reduce mortality rates associated with cardiovascular disease.
Researchers used sensitive detection techniques to study energy dissipation during bubble collapse, finding that less than 1% of energy is converted into light and most goes into chemical reactions or mechanical energy. This understanding has implications for future work on sonochemistry and the possibility of sonofusion.
Defects in enzymes responsible for processing dystroglycan protein cause several rare forms of muscular dystrophy. The discovery will help doctors diagnose and provide genetic counseling to patients. It also raises questions about links between muscle physiology and neurobiology, potentially improving understanding of learning and memory.
Researchers at Case Western Reserve University discovered kinks in the aggrecan protein, a submolecular root of arthritis. The study shows that these kinks may be more susceptible to enzymes that degrade cartilage in osteoarthritis, providing a link between structure and function.
A recent study found that antiretroviral therapy targeting the central nervous system can improve neurological symptoms in HIV-infected children. The treatment was shown to reduce the amount of virus in their brains and improve developmental milestones.
A study found that middle school students who participated in a nutrition program with repeated messages and support had significant increases in fruit and vegetable consumption, while those without the program saw no change. Researchers emphasize the need for intensive, multi-component interventions to reach these children.
New studies reveal close connections between North Atlantic and Pacific climates, with potential implications for predicting future climate changes. Glacier advances in Alaska and landslides triggered by asteroid impacts provide evidence of distant climate perturbations.
A new study reveals that men are on average twice as likely to die prematurely as women at every age, particularly in their twenties. The disparity holds true for various causes of death, including car crashes and heart disease. If male mortality rates matched female rates, over 375,000 lives would be saved annually in the US.
A computer system developed by Newcastle University researchers accurately predicted the spread of breast cancer and five-year survival rates in nearly 90% of patients. The system uses a combination of neural networks and fuzzy logic to analyze images of cells from tissue samples.
A recent study found a significant change in the types of bacteria involved in early-onset sepsis in low-birth-weight infants, with an increase in E. coli cases and antibiotic-resistant strains. The shift raises concerns about the impact of increasing antibiotic use during labor on these vulnerable infants.
Researchers found that neighborhoods with older homes in urban areas have sidewalks, denser street networks, and mix of business and residential uses, which encourages walking. Men and non-Hispanic whites were more likely than women and other racial groups to walk at least a mile 20 times a month.
A recent study by UCSF researchers reveals that lower literacy is associated with worse health outcomes for diabetes patients, even after accounting for other factors. Patients with inadequate health literacy are more likely to experience complications such as diabetic retinopathy and have poorer blood sugar control.
A new study published in American Journal of Preventive Medicine shows that exercising boosts the confidence of older adults. By promoting fitness-related variables like weight, energy and eating habits, public health interventions can help build confidence to continue exercising, leading to long-term behavioral change.
Participants with lower physical functioning experienced rapid progress toward higher functional levels after taking Tai Chi classes. Additionally, those with lower health perceptions and depression reported more significant improvements in physical function.
Researchers at UCSD identified a gene called Six6 and its co-factor Dach2, which enable normal eye size by controlling cell growth. The study provides insights into the developmental role of these proteins in other organ systems.
Researchers have created a prototype, Activity Compass, that uses sensors and GPS to monitor daily routines and provide prompts. The device aims to help patients maintain independence and reduce emotional burnout on caregivers.
A study of over 1,000 passengers flying between San Francisco and Denver found that recirculated cabin air did not cause more colds than fresh air. The researchers suggest that being on a plane packed with people may be the primary factor in transmission of colds.
The Harvard Medical School consortium aims to engineer microorganisms to handle hazardous chemical waste and produce energy sources. By studying the unique interactions of their proteins and interrelationships with their environments, scientists will develop cost-effective ways to clean up pollution and advance biological-based energy.
Illicit crops, particularly opium poppies, are expanding into critical bird habitats in the Andes region of Colombia. This could lead to devastating effects on forest-dependent bird species if the expansion continues.
Researchers engineered a virus to target prostate-specific antigen, appearing as 'hot spots' in primary tumors and distant metastases. This method could deliver toxic treatments directly to prostate cancer cells, killing them while sparing surrounding healthy tissue.
A study found that over half of children's Medicaid expenses are for injuries, with an average cost of $396 per child per year. The most common injury types were blunt force and penetrating trauma, often caused by falls.
Astronomers found that most comets disappear after their first pass through the solar system, but recent modelling suggests the number of dormant comets is far too low to accommodate predicted numbers. Dr Foot proposes mirror matter as a possible explanation for the missing comets.
Researchers have developed a new genetic shark-identification test that is quick, accurate and relatively cheap. The test has been evaluated on 33 closely-related known species and found to be nearly 100% accurate, with an average accuracy of over 99%, according to Shivji and his colleagues.
Researchers developed a new technique to analyze RNA splicing in yeast, revealing the complex process of gene expression. By studying yeast genes with DNA microarrays, they gained insights into alternative splicing and its role in human diseases.
Researchers tested the effectiveness of an electric barrier in preventing Asian carp from passing through a simulated barrier near Romeoville, Illinois. The study found that only one fish out of 381 attempts successfully passed through the barrier, and smaller fish were less susceptible to the electric current.
Researchers found that whitebark pines, large ranges, and low human density are key factors in the survival of grizzly bears. The ESA has helped protect these areas, leading to increased bear populations in places like Yellowstone.
Researchers Katharina Lodders and her team found evidence of complex chemistry in brown dwarf atmospheres, including the formation of liquid iron clouds. The study revealed that as brown dwarfs cool, certain compounds reappear in their atmospheres.
Chicago researchers awarded $9 million NIH grant to investigate the impact of lifestyle experiences on cognitive function and Alzheimer's disease. The study aims to understand how cognitively stimulating activities can increase neural reserve and reduce the likelihood of memory loss and other clinical signs of Alzheimer's.
A team of researchers, government agencies, and private companies test a sustainable, environmentally friendly open ocean aquaculture industry in the Gulf of Mexico. The project utilizes innovative technologies, such as a single-point mooring system and automated innovations like a remote camera and satellite tracking system.
Researchers believe that lunar debris may hold fossils from Earth's early microbial life, with potential insights into the evolution of life on our planet. By studying this ancient material, scientists can gain a better understanding of the moon's role as a window into Earth's history.
Autistic children exhibit significantly increased cerebral volumes compared to typically developing children, suggesting abnormal brain development processes occur very early. Brain volume levels out to normal size by adolescence and adulthood.
Biomedical engineer Shelly Sakiyama-Elbert has designed a novel nerve repair system that uses a gel-filled tube to deliver growth factor proteins stimulating nerve regeneration. The system promotes peripheral nerve regeneration in preliminary rat studies and shows promise for spinal cord repair.
A team of scholars discovered that early Maya centers were abandoned due to a drastic change in local environments, transforming swamp-like bajos into seasonal swamps. The study found evidence of human-induced environmental change and climatic shift, leading the Maya to adapt and thrive in the altered environment.
A review of medical savings accounts (MSAs) suggests they are unlikely to reduce healthcare spending while maintaining access to services for all Canadians. MSAs were assessed using data from Manitoba residents, and the results showed an increase in government spending on healthcare if the threshold was used as MSA entitlement.
Researchers used bat hibernation physiology to predict climate change effects, finding that warmer winters will allow little brown bats to expand their northern ranges. The study's findings highlight the importance of basic physiological processes in understanding ecosystem changes.
Research by James P. Smith and Dana P. Goldman found that education level is a significant factor in adherence to treatment regimens, particularly for complex diseases like HIV and diabetes. The study suggests that education can help improve health outcomes by promoting better adherence to treatment plans.
A new system is being developed to aid plastic surgeons in reconstructive surgery by analyzing faces using wavelet analysis, recommending procedures and assessing outcomes. This technology has potential applications outside of plastic surgery, including facial recognition and security, as well as quantifying beauty.
A study by Andrew Hansen and Jay Rotella found that development near nature reserves can harm bird populations, as many species rely on productive habitats outside the reserve. The researchers suggest that conserving population source areas outside reserves is necessary to protect biodiversity in nature reserves.
Researchers found that low-dose extended-release niacin improves lipid levels and glycemic control in patients with diabetes. The therapy also raises high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, a healthier type of cholesterol.
Researchers create near-field infrared microscope to visualize crystal vibrations in the nanometre range. The technique uses infrared light to enhance signal intensity at the tip of a scanning probe needle, revealing phonon resonance in silicon carbide crystals 200-fold brighter than gold.