A $1 million NIH grant will support Wilfredo Colón's study of familial ALS, a hereditary version of the disease. The research focuses on SOD1 enzyme mutants that lead to the disease's progression.
Research emphasizes the role of environmental factors in promoting physical activity, including accessibility, pleasant surroundings, and convenience. The study found that people are more likely to engage in outdoor activities when there are safe and accessible paths, bikeways, and health clubs nearby.
A new study reveals that tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-alpha) regulates the expression of neurotransmitter receptors on neurons, affecting signal transmission and potentially providing new treatment approaches for dementia, Alzheimer's disease, stroke, epilepsy, and spinal cord injury. The research suggests a vital role for glial ce...
Scientists have developed a new compound, TAS-108, which inhibits the growth of tamoxifen-resistant breast tumours. It works by recruiting a co-repressor to help inhibit oestrogen receptors, making it more effective than other anti-oestrogens.
Researchers can now reconstruct missing sound sequences by analyzing typical language patterns. This technology will aid safe communication in noisy environments and help historians recreate lost texts.
Researchers at Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institution successfully cultured sea fans on a large scale for the first time, marking a significant milestone in coral reef conservation. The project's results could reduce the recovery process by five to 10 years and pave the way for sustainable re-seeding of damaged reefs.
People with Down's syndrome experienced almost double the life expectancy from 1982 to 1997, averaging 49 years. The majority of deaths were attributed to characteristic Down's syndrome disorders, such as congenital heart defects and leukaemia.
A study of 608 women found that those from deprived areas had a higher incidence of grade three tumours and oestrogen-receptor negative tumours. These factors contribute to poorer outcomes in terms of cancer progression and treatment response.
A pilot study by a consultant surgeon found that breast reconstruction surgery takes longer and results in more complications, out-patient appointments, and additional surgeries. The study showed that mastectomies with breast reconstruction took 7.1 days to complete, compared to 5.6 days for those without reconstruction.
Researchers have made promising strides in combating breast cancer using novel enzyme inhibitors that target key enzymes involved in cell growth and division. These drugs, such as R115777, work by interrupting cellular signals that promote tumor growth, leading to partial responses and disease stabilization in advanced cancer patients.
An international team observed ferromagnetism in one-dimensional cobalt chains, which exhibit both short- and long-range magnetic order. The chains' localized orbital magnetic moments are much larger than those in thin films or bulk crystals, opening up new possibilities for nanoscale magnetic structures.
Researchers have discovered at least 100 genes that show significant differences in activity between non-invasive ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) and invasive breast cancer (IBC). The study's findings suggest that defects in these genes may play a role in the progression from non-invasive to invasive cancer.
A University of Michigan study found that brains detect wins and losses within a third of a second, triggering subsequent decision-making. The research suggests that losses loom larger than gains in the brain's neural activity, influencing future choices.
A new blood test was developed using a mouse model of Alzheimer's disease, which can detect amyloid plaques and predict dementia risk. The test uses a protein called Ab40, which is not reflective of brain pathology unless an antibody is injected into the animal.
Excavations at Kostenki in Russia reveal that anatomically modern humans were developing new technologies for survival in the cold region around 30,000 to 40,000 years ago. The discoveries include bone and ivory needles with eyelets, as well as trapping techniques for obtaining furs.
Systematic review and meta-analysis of 12 randomised trials shows a 6% increase in one-year survival for patients receiving chemotherapy with radiotherapy compared to those receiving radiotherapy alone. Patients also experience a two-month improvement in average survival time.
A randomized study by Tufts University researchers found that high protein diets combined with sufficient calcium intake can improve bone mass density in older adults. The study suggests that adequate calcium is crucial to mitigate the negative effects of protein on bone health.
A new mechanism called nonstop decay recognizes and destroys abnormal messenger RNA, potentially interfering with drug treatments for genetic diseases like cystic fibrosis. Thwarting this mechanism may make these treatments more effective.
A team led by Hope Jahren found evidence that Axel Heilberg's forests received equatorial water and warmth from a prehistoric weather pattern. The discovery helps demystify the forest's existence near the North Pole, where sunlight and darkness last for four months each year.
A new study has validated data on 73 patients with lymph-node negative breast cancer under 55, predicting disease-free survival with 90% certainty. This could lead to a 30-40% reduction in chemotherapy use for these patients, resolving the dilemma of overtreatment.
A new study found that doctors who received training in communication skills showed significantly more positive attitudes towards psychosocial issues and exhibited patient-centered behavior. The results suggest that a three-day course can make a lasting impact on doctors' communication styles, leading to better patient outcomes.
University of Washington cosmologist Craig Hogan believes new experiments could shed light on subatomic particles called gravitons, potentially uniting quantum mechanics and relativity. These advancements might also provide clues to the holographic principle, which suggests everything in 3D can be specified by information in 2D.
A study of nearly 1,900 air travelers found that the percentage of people experiencing stress while flying increased from 60% to 81% since 9/11. Post-9/11 fliers are more focused on personal safety and security, with women being slightly more concerned than men.
A study suggests that insulin can suppress a pro-inflammatory transcription factor that promotes clot formation in blood vessels. Insulin infusion reduced levels of tissue factor and plasminogen activator inhibitor-1, key players in the development of human and mouse atherosclerosis.
Scientists identified a protein called RIN4 that bridges between bacterial pathogens and plant disease resistance proteins, allowing pathogens to evade the host's defenses. The discovery adds new knowledge to how bacterial pathogens target plant molecular machinery to make it more hospitable.
Researchers tracked extinct brown bears using stable isotope data, finding a separate population in Eurasia. The study suggests that competition between brown and short-faced bears was not the primary factor in their extinction.
A new radiotherapy technique delivered during surgery shows promising results in preventing breast cancer recurrence and improving cosmetic outcomes. The 'one stop shop' approach may be more effective and accessible than traditional treatment, especially for women in developing countries.
A new study by researchers at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center has identified gamma delta T cells as a crucial component of the immune response to tuberculosis infection. The study found that these white blood cells can develop memory and rapidly respond to infection, blurring the lines between innate and acquired immunity.
A new study found that classrooms where students used fewer avoidance strategies were more likely to have teachers who emphasized understanding, effort, and enjoyment. Teachers in these 'mastery-oriented' classrooms helped students build understanding, provided motivational support, and modeled their own thinking processes.
A genetic test for a cell-proliferation enzyme variant may predict poorer outcomes in children with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia, prompting individualized treatment approaches. The study found that children homozygous for the triple repeat were four times more likely to have a poor outcome.
A touch screen questionnaire found that breast cancer patients experience similar levels of adverse side-effects from chemotherapy, regardless of age. The study also revealed that older women are more susceptible to fatigue, anorexia, weight loss, and mouth ulcers during treatment.
Children who grow up in risky families often suffer lifelong health problems, including cancer, heart disease, and mental health issues. The study found a pattern of serious long-term health consequences for children in homes marked by conflict and aggression.
A University of Illinois study found that sunlight and PCB exposure enhance the development of non-melanoma skin cancer on parts of the body not directly exposed to the sun. Mice exposed to both sunlight and PCBs developed tumors, while those with only PCB exposure did not.
The South African government is under pressure to implement a national program against vertical transmission of HIV from mothers to children. Key researchers are calling for increased investment in antiretroviral treatment and support to improve public health outcomes.
The Emory study uses the COGNIShunt device to drain off toxins from the cerebrospinal fluid, a potential breakthrough in treating Alzheimer's disease. The 18-month trial aims to assess the effectiveness of the treatment and its impact on patients' symptoms.
A newly discovered dinosaur, Liaoceratops yanzigouensis, has provided valuable insights into the evolution of horned dinosaurs. Weighing only about seven pounds, it had rudimentary horns and a frill, unlike its larger cousin Triceratops.
A researcher argues that the South is unfairly burdened with negative characteristics, such as racism and poverty, while the rest of America is viewed as more progressive. Historians' omission of Northern slavery from national narratives has contributed to this dichotomy.
The Howard Hughes Medical Institute has awarded a four-year grant of $2 million to the European Molecular Biology Organization. The grant supports six scientists from the Czech Republic, Hungary and Poland early in their careers, linking them with EMBO's Young Investigator Programme.
Researchers at University College London have developed a non-invasive method to detect breast cancer spread using white light. The technique involves feeding harmless light pulses through a thin fibre onto the tissue surface, which is then analysed on a portable computer to compare with previous examples of normal and cancerous tissue.
Duke University cardiologists report that DX-9065a, an experimental anti-coagulant, has cleared another hurdle in becoming a potential new treatment for patients with coronary artery disease. The agent inhibits Factor Xa, preventing blood clot formation earlier in the coagulation process.
A new fossil discovery in Ethiopia indicates that Homo erectus was a single, widespread species, rather than two separate ones. The 1 million-year-old fossil found in the Middle Awash region of Ethiopia is similar to other Homo erectus fossils from Asia and Africa.
The study reveals that female mice develop cardiac hypertrophy when estrogen is blocked, mimicking human conditions. The discovery could lead to a better understanding of the molecular signals causing heart enlargement and potential ways to prevent or reverse it.
Robert Eisenman, a leading oncogene expert, has made significant contributions to understanding how normal cells become cancerous and impacted studies of AIDS and other diseases. He will receive the award at the AACR annual meeting in San Francisco.
A study found that surgeons rarely offer women a choice between mastectomy and breast-conserving surgery, despite medical appropriateness. Women's perceptions of receiving a choice differ significantly from surgeons' perceptions, with female surgeons focusing on security and male surgeons prioritizing femininity.
Recent improvements in hormonal therapy and understanding of molecular mechanisms indicate that hormone therapy is more effective than chemotherapy in treating early breast cancer. The use of GnRH antagonists and aromatase inhibitors holds promise for treating younger women and post-menopausal patients, respectively.
The EMBO Young Investigator Programme has received a $2 million grant from the Howard Hughes Medical Institute to support young researchers in Central Europe. The programme provides financial and networking opportunities to promote Europe's most promising young life sciences researchers.
A five-year study will analyze how nursing staffs are organized in 160 US hospitals to improve patient care quality. Researchers will examine nurses' experiences, job satisfaction, and relationships with healthcare professionals.
A recent study suggests that higher carbon dioxide levels could lead to an increase in pollen production, resulting in more severe allergies. This shift may also alter competitive relationships among plants and favor the growth of weedy species.
A team of researchers is tracking the health of rescue dogs and their handlers who searched at the World Trade Center and Pentagon. The study aims to identify potential long-term consequences, including cancer and mental health issues, and provide assistance to those affected.
Researchers found that women who received predictive genetic testing for hereditary breast and ovarian cancer took practical measures, such as regular medical exams, rather than experiencing significant distress. About 10% opted for prophylactic mastectomy, while 37% had already undergone oophorectomy before testing.
Scientists at MGH discover herceptin has additional antitumor properties by targeting multiple factors that maintain tumor blood supply, slowing growth and prolonging survival in animal models.
Researchers developed an easy and affordable way to screen families for underlying genetic mutations that predispose them to developing breast cancer. The new test can indicate the presence of mutations in breast cancer genes in 50% of cases, potentially even more.
A new million-year-old skull found in Ethiopia contradicts recent suggestions of a split in the homolineage between Eurasiatic and African populations. The team's detailed analysis shows genetic continuity between populations, indicating movement and mobility between them, consistent with a single species Homo erectus.
Researchers used experiments and mathematical modeling to understand seismic wave behavior in the lower mantle, finding that mineral grain alignment causes unusual wave behavior. The study provides a window into Earth's inner workings and is an important step toward integrating seismology and geodynamics in the lower mantle.
Researchers at San Francisco State University found that 74% of women wearing perfume with a synthetic pheromone experienced an increase in sociosexual behaviors, including kissing, affection, and sexual intercourse. The study concluded that the pheromone increased the attractiveness of women to men, leading to more romantic behavior.
A new booklet aims to improve communication and support between doctors, patients, and partners in cancer care. The booklet was developed with input from patients and healthcare professionals, resulting in a user-friendly document that enhances patient understanding of research and clinical trials.
Researchers have developed a potent antiviral drug, HDP-CDV, that can block the replication of variola and orthopox viruses, including smallpox. The oral drug is 100 times more active than existing cidofovir and may be used to treat and prevent smallpox infections.
The International Breast Cancer Intervention Study (IBIS) found that tamoxifen reduced breast cancer incidence by 38% in healthy high-risk women. However, the benefits of tamoxifen for prevention in these women are unclear due to potential side effects and risks.
Under-sized infants who were exclusively breastfed for the first six months scored higher on IQ tests at five years of age compared to those with formula or solids introduced early. The study's findings also support the benefits of exclusive breastfeeding on cognitive development, without compromising growth.
Innovative programs addressing infant mortality, cancer screening and management, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, HIV/AIDS, and immunization show promise. Community-based initiatives, including churches, prisons, and barber shops, are key to building trust and addressing socio-economic factors contributing to health disparities.