Dr. David Bartel and colleagues have identified 16 novel miRNAs in Arabidopsis that regulate gene expression during development. The researchers demonstrate a plant homologue of the Dicer enzyme, CARPEL FACTORY (CAF), which processes plant miRNAs with sequence and structural similarities to animal miRNAs.
Researchers found that repeated exposure to online banner ads can lead to future sales, even if no clicks occur immediately. The study suggests that advertisers use banner ads strategically to smooth out sales and increase basket expenditures.
Researchers at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory have discovered that Spot 42, a small RNA, differentially regulates gene expression in the E. coli galactose operon through an antisense mechanism. The study provides mechanistic insight into the process and answers long-standing biological questions.
The European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology has expressed deep concern over Italy's proposed policies on frozen embryos, which they claim are unethical and put women at risk. The proposals, set to be reviewed by the Italian Senate, limit embryo transfer to single births, posing significant risks to mothers and babies.
The new Stratospheric Satellites use NASA-developed super-pressure balloons to fly at 110,000 feet and provide 20 times higher resolution surface images of disasters than space-based satellites. With a projected life-cycle cost of $500,000 or less per unit, these satellites are poised to revolutionize disaster monitoring and telecommun...
A five-year, $14.8 million NIH-funded award will support HIV/AIDS research in China, focusing on epidemiologic and behavioral interventions, pathogenesis of the virus, safety and efficacy of anti-HIV drugs, and vaccine development. The award aims to improve HIV/AIDS treatment and prevention measures in resource-limited countries.
A two-year survey of nurses' unions and associations in 76 countries found that understaffing is the most frequently cited work-related problem. Nurses worldwide rank improved patient care and salaries as their top priorities, with stress, workplace bullying, and violence being significant concerns.
Researchers from the University at Buffalo have developed a programmable 'Sugazyme' that can efficiently attach unnatural amino acids to proteins. The technology has the potential to aid researchers working in proteomics by expanding the amino-acid repertoire for protein synthesis.
A study of 50 healthy postmenopausal women found that a specific exercise program reduced the risk of vertebral fractures and retained benefits for eight years after completion. The exercise group had lower bone density loss and better back strength than the control group.
A study by Dr. Eileen Trauth found that women in IT face unique challenges depending on their cultural background, family support, and personal experiences. The researcher suggests that respecting individual differences and providing tailored encouragement can help women resist social shaping and succeed in the field.
A CDC report confirms that residents of Appalachia, particularly those in rural areas, face higher risks of dying from cancer. The study, conducted by the Appalachian Cancer Network, shows significantly higher death rates for lung and cervical cancers in rural Appalachia compared to the national average.
Researchers have successfully used gene therapy to treat two young children with ADA-SCID, a rare form of SCID that requires regular injections of the bovine form of ADA enzyme. The new method involves removing bone marrow cells and engineering them to produce healthy immune cells, offering a potentially lower-risk alternative to bone ...
Researchers combine a gene that shuts off angiogenesis with a nanoparticle that selectively targets cancer tumor cells, effectively cutting off their blood supply and killing the tumor. This approach shows strong regression of large tumors in every system tested.
Research suggests that personality disorders change over time, with certain traits increasing in severity as individuals age. A 12-year follow-up study found that anxious and obsessive personality traits became more pronounced in patients, while flamboyant tendencies decreased.
A study of 219 patients with non-metastatic colon cancer found that laparoscopy-assisted colectomy (LAC) reduced perioperative morbidity, shortened hospital stays, and prolonged cancer-related survival. LAC was associated with a 60% lower risk of tumour relapse compared to open colectomy.
A new gene therapy protocol has successfully treated a child born without an immune system, reversing severe combined immunodeficiency. The procedure improved genetically altered stem cells, giving them a biological advantage and allowing them to prevail over the abnormal cells.
A single gene on the X chromosome, AGTR2, has been linked to mental retardation. The discovery could lead to new therapies and insights into normal brain development.
A previously unrecognized function of myeloperoxidase has been identified, affecting vasculature through a pathway independent of chlorine bleach production. This discovery may lead to the development of new drugs to treat inflammatory vascular diseases and conditions like septic shock.
A study by NIH/National Institute on Drug Abuse found that integrated medical and substance abuse treatment significantly increased patient continuation rates. Over half of patients who received comprehensive care entered outpatient substance abuse programs, compared to just 2.4% of those receiving standard care.
Researchers at Clemson University have identified a single gene, AGTR2, that may trigger mental retardation in males when it is abnormal. The study found mutations in eight male patients with unexplained mental retardation, offering new insights into the causes of brain development disorders.
Researchers at CWRU have developed a new cancer treatment using dual-release kinetics, which could potentially allow for more effective and safest local drug therapy. The device is designed to work in synergy with image-guided thermal ablation and aims to reduce exposure of normal tissues to drugs while increasing the dosage to the tum...
A new study suggests that taking aspirin three or more times a week for six months may reduce the risk of developing non-small cell lung cancer in women. However, larger studies are needed to confirm these findings and determine the optimal dose due to potential side effects like gastrointestinal bleeding.
Lee's research found that zeolites expand as fluid from the surrounding medium is squeezed into their tiny pores under great pressure, leading to potential applications as 'molecular sponges'. The discovery was made possible by using a technique called powder diffraction at Brookhaven's National Synchrotron Light Source.
A study found that people with type 2 diabetes experienced increased oscillatory potentials after dark adaptation, which decreased with oxygen inhalation. The researchers suggest that diabetic patients might benefit from a modified night-time illumination cycle during sleep to reduce oxygen consumption in the retina.
Researchers at the University of Washington discovered that fluid forces in the human body help invasive bacteria, such as E. coli, thrive and adhere to surfaces. This finding has significant medical implications, including the potential for improved biomedical device safety and a better understanding of urinary tract infections.
A study of 144 physicians found that treating substance-abusing patients leads to lower professional satisfaction rates compared to caring for patients with hypertension. The findings suggest that addressing physician dissatisfaction in drug abuse treatment may improve patient outcomes.
Researchers have designed rough-surfaced, fuzzy polymers to mesh with neurons, improving contact with brain tissue. The polymers' unique surface can fine-tune electrical signal conduction, enabling more efficient neural communication for brain-computer interfaces.
Researchers conducted two studies on venlafaxine XR, a SNRI medication, for social anxiety disorder (SAD) treatment. The results showed significant reductions in SAD symptoms as early as four or six weeks after treatment began, with continued improvements through week 12.
Researchers have found a new piece of the gene expression puzzle, revealing how histone proteins interact with each other and with other molecules to regulate gene activity. The discovery sheds light on potential causes of male infertility and highlights the complex mechanisms at play in chromatin.
The AT1-receptor blocker Atacand significantly reduces non-fatal strokes in elderly patients with mild hypertension while maintaining cognitive function. Lowering blood pressure also shows no significant increase in cognitive decline or dementia risk.
This study found that paclitaxel- and carboplatin-based regimens can prolong survival of patients with advanced non-small cell lung cancer, with two-year survival rates similar to those achieved at one year with best supportive care. However, three-drug regimens were slightly more toxic and did not provide additional benefits.
A study by the NIH/National Institute on Drug Abuse found that active cocaine users had significantly lower adherence rates to antiretroviral therapy, leading to a higher risk of viral suppression failure. The study suggests that interventions should include assessing and treating cocaine use in patients with HIV infection.
Researchers discovered that degradation of SDF-1 protein is crucial for stem cell mobilization in bone marrow transplants. G-CSF growth factor triggers this process by reducing SDF-1 levels, allowing stem cells to flow into the bloodstream. The findings may lead to improved collection of stem cells for clinical transplantations.
Researchers found that gene swapping in mice leads to pro-B cell lymphomas, with amplifications of c-myc and IgH genes arising from chromosome translocations. The study uncovered a new mechanism for cancer formation involving the DNA-snipping enzyme RAG.
A study of 219 patients with non-metastatic colon cancer found that laparoscopy-assisted colectomy (LAC) reduced tumour relapse and death from all causes by 60% and 50%, respectively. LAC also resulted in shorter hospital stays and lower perioperative morbidity compared to open colectomy.
A new study found that the continuous stitching technique significantly reduced pain in women with perineal damage after childbirth. The method also resulted in fewer suture removals within three months compared to interrupted suturing. This could lead to cost savings and improved outcomes for patients.
A study of 373 intravenous drug users found significant reductions in emergency department use among those using needle-exchange programs, including Hispanics, men, and those with mental illness. The study suggests that needle-exchange-based health care services can reduce emergency department use among high-risk IDUs.
Researchers used computer simulations to track proton transport in basic solutions, revealing a complex process with different mobility mechanisms than acidic environments. This knowledge could aid in designing materials or processes that utilize proton conduction phenomena.
Researchers have discovered a new drug combination that outperforms existing treatments in patients with no prior treatment. The lopinavir-ritonavir combination demonstrates superior virus inhibition and reduces the risk of resistance, offering a more convenient regimen for patients.
A recent study reveals that girls tend to outshine boys academically, however, they suffer from increased internal distress and anxiety related to their performance. The research suggests that societal expectations and socialization can contribute to this phenomenon.
Physical aggression is a pervasive issue among young adults, with nearly three-quarters of participants reporting a personal experience with aggression. Bars are particularly common sites for male aggression, while homes are the most common setting for female aggression. The study highlights the need to address this widespread problem ...
A team of researchers has established the first-ever gene profile of the aging human retina, revealing expression changes in genes involved in stress response and energy metabolism. The study's findings may help scientists understand how age predisposes individuals to age-related diseases such as AMD.
Researchers John Tyson and Bela Novak are developing mathematical models of yeast cell growth and division to better understand the molecular mechanisms controlling cell behavior. Their work aims to extrapolate findings from yeast cells to humans, with potential implications for cancer research and other cell-based diseases.
A new longitudinal study examines the drinking habits of 450 lesbians in Chicago, comparing them to a larger sample of heterosexual women. The research aims to identify factors that increase or buffer lesbians' risk for alcohol-related problems.
These sensors can detect temperature changes, stress, viscosity, liquid density, and surface tension without wires or connectors. They use magnetoelastic thin-film technology to generate harmonics that change as the environment around them alters.
Researchers at UB have developed an ultrasmall magnetic sensor that produces a record change in resistance in an ultra-small magnetic field, exceeding all previous records. The sensor's capabilities could enable the storage of 50 or more DVDs on a hard drive the size of a credit card.
A new study of over 10,000 women nationwide found no increased risk of breast cancer from taking birth control pills. Meanwhile, similar studies suggest oral contraceptives may reduce the risks of uterine and ovarian cancers by as much as 40%.
Research by University of Georgia wildlife scientists found that clover strip-cropping and conservation tillage systems in cotton provide critical habitat for threatened songbirds. Clover offers cover from predators, insects for food, and time to nest and fledge young between field operations.
A study of 169 children found that girls who had a view of nature from their apartment window performed better in concentration, impulse inhibition, and delayed gratification. This suggests that incorporating nature into urban living spaces can enhance self-discipline and academic achievement.
A collaboration between students and scientists from NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center aims to identify environmental triggers of pediatric asthma in Baltimore. The Baltimore Student Sun photometer Network (BSSN) will collect daily aerosol data, enhancing science, math, and technology skills for the students involved.
A large-scale study of over 9,200 women aged 35-64 found no association between oral contraceptive use and increased breast cancer risk. The research provides reassurance for women who have used oral contraceptives during their reproductive years.
Researchers at Cornell University and Argonne National Laboratory have solved the structure of a key bacterial quorum-sensing protein, which could lead to new treatments for biofilm-related diseases. The discovery may also enable the design of targeted therapies to prevent harmful bacteria from forming biofilms.
A recent UC study found that 42% of live sea otters and 62% of dead sea otters were infected with Toxoplasma. The researchers suggest that land-based freshwater runoff is a source of the parasite, likely transported by surface runoff from fields and yards to coastal areas.
The U.S.-Peru debt-for-nature swap aims to conserve ten tropical rain forest areas covering over 27.5 million acres, home to rare biodiversity and threatened species. The agreement generates funds for local Peruvian conservation groups and provides critical income streams for front-line conservation efforts.
A meta-analysis of 88 studies found strong associations between corporal punishment and child behaviors, including aggression, antisocial behavior, and physical abuse. The research suggests that corporal punishment may actually cause negative outcomes for children, such as increased aggression and mental health issues.
Researchers identified a new cholesterol disorder caused by mutations in the CYP7A1 gene, leading to elevated cholesterol levels and increased risk of heart disease. The study found that carriers of the mutation had significantly higher cholesterol levels and were more likely to develop gallstones.
A computer-based system is being developed to assist astronauts on extended missions with conflict resolution and mild depression. The system uses problem-solving therapy and computer simulations to help users identify and address problems.
A study of 2000 non-smoking patients found that even brief exposure to second-hand smoke increases the risk of acute heart disorders by 26%. The researchers conclude that eliminating cigarette smoke from public places is crucial to protecting non-smokers.
A NASA study suggests that mixed croplands can lead to a cooler and wetter climate in certain regions. The researchers used satellite measurements of vegetation to simulate regional climate and found that this type of land use can alter atmospheric circulation, leading to increased convection and precipitation.
Kytril was found to be significantly more effective than dolasetron in controlling acute chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting. The study, led by Dr. Marianne Tan, showed that 69.2% of patients treated with Kytril experienced total control of nausea and vomiting, compared to 23.1% for dolasetron.