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.