Research reveals that chronic cocaine users experience a decrease in the perception of pleasure, which can contribute to addiction. New therapies may focus on blocking the elevation of brain reward thresholds produced by chronic cocaine use.
Researchers at Scripps Institution of Oceanography used satellite and radar technologies to monitor the height and thickness of Antarctica's ice shelves. They successfully measured the effect of tides on ice shelf height, allowing for more accurate tracking of climate-related changes.
The Lancet Oncology and Infectious Diseases examine the effectiveness of cancer prevention strategies, including chemoprevention and lifestyle changes. Researchers also explore the impact of HIV treatment on reducing epidemics and developing vaccines against the virus.
A team of scientists has discovered a mechanism for neuron-specific expression of Pcdh proteins, allowing individual neurons to generate distinct combinations of genes and proteins. This discovery may underlie the specificity of neural connectivity.
Research reveals distinct patterns of use among methamphetamine and cocaine abusers, with meth users more likely to experience attention and organizational difficulties. Cocaine users, on the other hand, tend to consume the drug primarily in the evening, leading to differences in cognitive impairment.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine discovered that human Tsix is expressed only on the inactive X chromosome, contradicting previous findings in mice. The study suggests an alternative mechanism for X chromosome regulation and shifts the focus away from the Tsix gene.
Researchers found that MSI-1436, a natural compound derived from dogfish shark liver, helped normal and obese mice and rats lose fat without losing muscle mass. Phase I trials are expected to begin next year to test its safety and effectiveness as an anti-obesity treatment.
A study by Dr. Steven L. Batki found that methadone treatment significantly improved the completion of TB therapy in opioid-dependent patients with latent TB infection. Patients receiving standard or minimal methadone treatment had higher completion rates compared to those receiving routine care.
Researchers at Salk Institute and UT Southwestern Medical Center identified a critical class of proteins controlling nerve connections from the eye to the brain. The study revealed how optic axons map their connections using Eph receptors and ephrin ligands, shedding light on neural development and potential repair mechanisms.
The study of over 5,000 participants found a significant association between excess weight and increased risk of heart failure in both men and women. Obesity was independently linked to an increased risk of heart failure, even after accounting for other risk factors.
Researchers found that Clb2 is the real trigger for yeast cell division, contradicting previous findings on Clb5. This discovery has implications for treating cancer, as it reveals a new way to understand the cell cycle mechanism.
Scientists found that magma could reach speeds of 200-600 mph, filling parts of the repository within hours. This could displace radioactive canisters and cause extensive damage.
Scientists at Penn State University have identified a new gene essential for pollen production in flowering plants. The team used genetic techniques to discover the gene, which is necessary for the formation of cells required for pollen production.
Researchers at the University of Louisville found a link between sleep apnea and high blood pressure through protein changes in laboratory rats. The study suggests that the connection plays a significant role in developing high blood pressure during bouts of sleep apnea.
Researchers have determined that the conformation of Smad3 protein regulates TGF-ß pathway interaction with other proteins, affecting signal transduction and gene expression. This discovery provides new insight into molecular mechanisms of TGF-ß signaling and potential targets for drug design.
A study of 53 IRB members found that while most prioritize the development of effective cancer therapies, individual approaches to weighing pros and cons vary widely. Only 12% use systematic risk-benefit calculations, with many relying on impression-based or practical considerations.
A new study found that risperidone, an antipsychotic agent, was effective in reducing irritability and behavioral problems in children with severe autism. The trial involved 101 children between ages 5 and 17, showing a significant positive response to treatment, with 69% experiencing marked improvement.
The Prodisc implant aims to alleviate lower back pain and maintain spine mobility by replacing damaged discs. Researchers will compare its safety and effectiveness to spinal fusion surgery in a randomized clinical trial.
Researchers found risperidone significantly more effective than placebo in improving behavior in children with autism, with 69% showing improvement compared to 12% on placebo. The medication was well-tolerated but associated with a substantial increase in body weight.
This month's TLN discusses the role of genetic risk factors in sleep disorders, including narcolepsy and obstructive sleep apnoea syndrome. The study highlights the importance of investigating the effects of mobile phone use on human populations to better understand the complex mechanisms regulating sleep.
A 22-year study found that early adolescence and peer influences are precursors to later drug use, which leads to increased health problems. Researchers tracked over 600 youths from age 1 to 27 and found that rebelliousness, distrust of authority, and risk-taking behavior were associated with later substance abuse.
Researchers used carbon-dating technology to confirm the authenticity of the Vinland Map, dating it to approximately 1434 A.D. The map, if authentic, is believed to be the first known cartographic representation of North America. Its date would establish the history of European knowledge of the lands bordering the western Atlantic Ocean.
Research reveals that participation in weight-dependent sports increases the risk of disordered eating behaviors in girls. Risk factors include depression, history of sexual abuse, or substance abuse, but low body weight is not a reliable indicator.
Researchers at Thomas Jefferson University are conducting a study on Mindfulness-Based Art Therapy (MBAT) to reduce psychological stress and medical symptoms in cancer patients. The therapy combines creative expression, meditation, and art-making to improve overall quality of life.
A new study suggests that cosmic rays could be the cause of global warming, proposing a height-dependent effect on cloudiness. The research proposes that increased cosmic ray intensity during periods of decreased solar wind may contribute to global cooling by stimulating the formation of dense clouds.
Researchers at Oregon State University found extremely low oxygen levels in the lower water column, leading to mass die-offs of rockfish, Dungeness crabs, sculpins, and other marine life. The unusual event is attributed to coastal upwelling and wind patterns, not human activities.
Researchers have identified a single genetic locus in the squash genus Cucurbita that controls phytolith production and plant defense. This discovery will help archaeologists determine whether ancient plants were domesticated or wild varieties by analyzing their phytolith content and cell configurations.
Researchers found physicians and patients were equally likely to use sun protection when going outside for an hour or more. However, the specific forms of sun protection used differed, with physicians using sunscreen more frequently but less often staying in the shade or wearing protective clothing.
As more older Americans outlive their driving privilege, they face unforeseen economic and social burdens. The study found that over 600,000 people age 70 or older stop driving each year and become dependent on others to meet their transportation needs.
Researchers at Rice University have discovered that carbon nanotubes can fluoresce in the near-infrared spectrum, which could lead to the development of inexpensive and simple diagnostic tests for diseases. This technology has the potential to target specific targets within the body, such as tumor cells or inflamed tissues.
Researchers have identified genetic markers that can predict which patients with schizophrenia will benefit from clozapine treatment. The study found that genetic variations in four key genes, including 5-HT2A and 5-HT2C, can successfully predict treatment outcome in approximately 77% of cases.
Researchers develop surface-enhanced laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (SELDI) for identifying potential biomarkers of early stage breast cancer. The study achieved high sensitivity and specificity, suggesting SELDI may lead to the discovery of additional biomarkers.
The collaboration aims to improve genetics education in Singapore, utilizing expertise from the DNALC and Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory. The Ministry of Education will establish infrastructure, develop curricula, and provide teacher training, while the DNALC will share award-winning educational tools.
Researchers discovered that tauroursodeoxycholic acid (TUDCA) can cross the blood-brain barrier and reduce apoptosis in mice with the HD gene, improving neurological cell function. The bile acid's anti-apoptotic qualities may also have potential for treating other chronic neurodegenerative conditions.
Researchers found that chemicals in detergents, plastics, and medicines can mimic natural estrogens, disrupting the sexual development of juvenile zebrafish. The study suggests that these compounds can affect not only the reproductive capacity but also sex ratios of fish populations.
Researchers at TSRI have developed a technique to selectively deliver adult stem cells into the eye, which can stimulate vessel growth and address inherited retinal degenerations. The cells can incorporate into the vasculature and make it normal, or be loaded with antiangiogenics to selectively wipe out the formation of new blood vessels.
Researchers found omapatrilat to be effective in treating heart failure, with some indications of superiority over standard ACE inhibitors. Patients with both hypertension and heart failure showed the greatest benefit from omapatrilat.
A rapid test developer suggests a PCR-based approach as an effective alternative to current methods for detecting group A streptococcus in throat swabs. The proposed test offers enhanced sensitivity and faster results compared to traditional antigen testing.
The Vinland Map's date has been determined to be around 1434, indicating a strong connection to the Catholic Church's Council of Basel. The parchment analysis provides new evidence supporting the map's authenticity and sheds light on European knowledge of North America during this period.
A novel immunoassay for FLC molecules has been developed and assessed for its sensitivity, latex-enhancement, and turbidimetric techniques. The new assay improves upon existing clinical laboratory tests for FLCs in identifying and monitoring patients with multiple myeloma and other diseases.
Dr. Scott, a Columbia University neurobiologist, has won a major career award from the Burroughs Wellcome Foundation for her research on the Drosophila gustatory system. The $500,000 award will support her work over five years, enabling her to investigate how the brain translates sensory stimuli into behavioral responses.
The American Association of Clinical Chemistry presents an update on HCV testing, highlighting the importance of laboratory tests for diagnosis and monitoring treatment efficacy. New testing methods, including core antigen and genotype testing, are being developed to assist clinicians in diagnosing HCV infection.
Researchers identified a novel gene, mammaglobin (MG), expressed only in breast cancer tissue. MG was found to be present in 81% of breast cancers and has potential applications for early detection and identification of metastases.
Researchers at North Carolina State University have developed a novel molecular template that enables the creation of surfaces with varying particle concentrations. This innovation allows for the design of sensors, filters, and other devices that can be tailored for specific applications in electronics, chemistry, and life sciences.
The presentation highlights various sources of food poisoning, including animal, plant, and chemical contaminants, as well as common types such as bacterial, viral, and parasitic infections. Early identification of these organisms is crucial for preventing severe illness or death.
A study published in BMC Public Health found a link between sewage sludge use and Staphylococcus aureus infections, affecting 25% of surveyed residents. The US EPA was criticized for not considering the combined risks of pathogens and chemicals in treated fields.
A new study finds that passive exposure to cigarette smoke increases the risk of cancer in cats by at least double, with effects similar to those seen in humans with non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. The research also suggests a link between household smokers and increased cancer risk in pets.
Scientists from Imperial College London and the University of Manchester have solved the structure of Beta-Crustacyanin, a protein that bends Astaxanthin's shape to create different colours. The discovery could lead to new uses of Astaxanthin as a drug-delivery mechanism and improve food colourants.
A study examines the potential of pharmacogenomic testing to help drug-treatment centers select suitable treatment regimens for opiate-addicted patients. The research investigates genetic polymorphisms affecting opioid metabolism, aiming to improve pain management and drug-abuse treatment.
Newborn diabetes screening benefits patients, medicine, and society by preventing complications, identifying at-risk individuals, and advancing research. Early detection enables targeted interventions to improve disease management, reduce hospitalizations, and lower medical costs.
A study of 660 participants aged 50 and older found that negative stereotypes about aging can decrease life expectancy, while positive self-perceptions can increase it. Positive attitudes towards aging are associated with a higher will to live and lower cardiovascular response to stress.
A genetic mutation in the NOG gene causes autosomal dominant stapes ankylosis, a rare hearing loss syndrome with similar symptoms to otosclerosis. The syndrome is characterized by skeletal abnormalities and may require different treatment options.
Researchers found that humming increased nitric oxide levels in the sinuses, boosting ventilation. Smoking by family members was linked to an increased likelihood of children being diagnosed with asthma before age 6. Obstructive sleep apnea was also associated with a significant increase in heart disease.
Researchers found that an antioxidant compound can protect islet cells from stress and death during transplantation, leading to improved transplant success rates. The antioxidants neutralized free radicals that contribute to inflammation and cell death, allowing more islet cells to survive and function properly.
A recent UGA study found that individuals with narcissistic tendencies often prioritize dominance over intimacy and may engage in 'game-playing love', leading to serious relationship problems. Despite initial charm, these partners frequently betray trust and exhibit manipulative behavior.
A new study reveals that six to 10 minutes of vigorous exercise per class can significantly improve adolescents' risk profiles, with drops in systolic and diastolic pressures. The study found that exercise-only groups had lower body fat and blood pressure than control groups.
Researchers at UC Riverside are studying the effects of fathers on their children's well-being, particularly during adolescence. The three-year study will examine cultural differences and explore how biological bonds influence the relationship between fathers and their teenage sons and daughters.
Researchers have sequenced the genome of Magnaporthe grisea, a fungus that causes rice blast, which destroys enough rice to feed 60 million people worldwide. The genomic structure is now available online, offering opportunities to dissect, understand and manage plant disease.
A UB researcher observed a significant correlation between air pollution and diabetes prevalence in the US, suggesting potential environmental toxins may contribute to the disease. The study found states with high TRI emissions had higher diabetes rates, while low-emission states had lower rates.
The study found that wine drinkers consumed less saturated fat, cholesterol, and smoked less than those who preferred other beverages or abstained. Women in the group also reported healthier dietary habits than men. The authors suggest further research on lifestyle differences between drinkers and non-drinkers.