The Antarctic ozone hole is smaller than usual this September due to unusual stratospheric weather patterns. The researchers warn that a single year's pattern does not make a long-term trend, and the data are not conclusive that the ozone layer is recovering.
A UCSF study found that macrophages from human lymphoma patients can cause mouse lymphoma when injected into mice. This contradicts the current understanding of macrophages' role in fighting disease. The researchers believe HIV-infected macrophages can become neoplastic and stimulate lymphoma growth.
A randomized trial of simvastatin in 173 children with heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia found significant reductions in all cholesterol measures. The drug was well-tolerated and did not affect growth or pubertal development, making it a safe option for treating inherited high cholesterol in children.
Researchers found that everolimus reduced scar tissue growth in stents, preventing re-blockages by 46-40 percent. The oral medication shows promise as a treatment for restenosis and may reduce the need for stenting.
A study found that wearing contact lenses instead of glasses increased feelings of self-confidence and 'pulling power'. Volunteers who switched to contact lenses reported a significant increase in abilities, with many more likely to engage in social interactions, including hugging, kissing, and fondling.
A study published in Nature Genetics reveals a gene mutation underlying Amish microcephaly, a birth defect marked by a small head and brain size. The researchers found that the defect disrupts mitochondrial function, leading to abnormal brain development.
Researchers found that combining calcium scores and CRP levels can gauge the presence, amount, and stability of artery-clogging plaque. Elevated CRP levels were linked to increased risk of coronary events, while combined tests showed a six-fold difference in heart attack risk between high-risk and low-risk individuals.
Leading oncology experts emphasize the need for additional research among elderly cancer patients with co-morbid conditions and those taking multiple medications. They advocate for equal access to treatment options as younger patients, highlighting a lack of focus on this critical patient population.
Researchers found that FMRP associates with RNAi-related cellular machinery, suggesting a possible role for RNAi in regulating gene expression. This discovery may lead to an entirely new field of molecular human genetics, shedding light on the genetic causes of fragile X syndrome.
Researchers found that c-Myc is essential for tumor development by regulating blood vessel growth. The study suggests disrupting c-Myc may be a successful anti-angiogenic tool in cancer therapy, targeting tumors' vascular networks to slow growth.
Researchers at Los Alamos National Laboratory have developed a computer model of the E-coli ribosome, a cellular structure responsible for protein creation. This model has applications in developing new and powerful antibiotics against a range of pathogens, including those used in bioweapons agents.
Researchers at the University of Wisconsin-Madison have discovered a potent Vitamin D analog, known as 2MD, which significantly increases bone density in rats with osteoporosis. The compound has shown no apparent toxicity and may become an alternative to hormone replacement therapy.
Researchers have discovered that autoreactive B cells escape normal controls by proliferating and undergoing somatic hypermutation outside the germinal center, leading to the production of autoantibodies in autoimmune diseases like lupus. The study reveals a new understanding of how B cells contribute to the origins of these diseases.
The NIH has awarded a ten-year, $19 million contract to Chimp Haven to establish a chimpanzee sanctuary. The sanctuary will provide humane care for retired research chimpanzees and operate under standards established jointly by the NCRR advisory panel and the Chimp Haven Board of Directors.
Two studies found that patients with kidney disease are at increased risk of death after a heart attack, receiving less-aggressive treatment. Meanwhile, researchers report four cases of muscle damage caused by statins, highlighting the need for closer monitoring.
Researchers highlight the importance of selecting an antiemetic with low potential for drug interactions in elderly cancer patients. Granisetron, a 5HT3 receptor antagonist, is considered a safe choice due to its low risk of cardiovascular toxicity and adverse interactions.
Researchers have developed a new technique to detect corrupted tumor suppressor genes affected by DNA methylation, which could lead to new therapies. The study found that DNA methylation primarily affects different genes than those damaged by deletion or mutation, suggesting a previously unrecognized source of therapeutic targets.
Researchers tested clay to treat harmful algal blooms (HABs), removing 80-90% of toxins in laboratory experiments. The study also found Pfiestera piscicida, a bacterium affecting fish, may be widespread in oceans and sea bass.
Researchers have identified three new genes in a rhesus monkey rhadinovirus with high structural similarity to those in human herpesvirus-8, paving the way for future studies using recombinant viruses. The goal is to develop targeted drug therapies against specific KSHV genes to prevent virus spread and cancer induction.
The TRUST 2002 study found high resistance rates to penicillin (18.4%) and azithromycin (27.5%), but low levofloxacin resistance (<1%). Levofloxacin's minimal inhibitory concentrations did not correlate with those of other antibiotics.
A research team has visualized the interactions between molecular chaperones and protein aggregates, shedding light on how these protective proteins prevent disease. The study provides new insights into neurodegenerative diseases and could lead to the development of effective drugs.
A U.S.-Russian team has made a significant breakthrough in the fight against drug-resistant tuberculosis, with a new compound showing marked decreases in lung presence and symptoms. The SciClone Pharmaceuticals-Verta project is a milestone for scientific collaboration between U.S. industry and former Soviet researchers.
A recent UCSF-led study found that fluoroquinolones were widely prescribed to patients discharged from the hospital despite narrow-spectrum antibiotics being appropriate. The study highlights the serious erosion of effectiveness due to overuse and increasing bacterial resistance, particularly in cystic fibrosis patients.
Researchers found that early intervention improves self-esteem and social connections for older people who become housebound. Services such as home help, day centres, or sheltered housing can make a positive impact, even if the support is not ideal.
Researchers from CU-Boulder will conduct cell biology experiments in microgravity, mimicking normal functioning kidney cells and studying molecular responses to infections. Plant growth experiments will also explore the role of gravity on plant development, with potential applications in timber and pharmaceutical industries.
University of Pittsburgh researchers have developed a urinary catheter that can directly measure blood flow and oxygen utilization in the body. This innovation allows for more timely monitoring of trauma patients and could lead to better outcomes by providing insights into mechanisms of organ failure.
Researchers identified Kir6.2 as a protective mechanism against stress in the heart, which helps maintain equilibrium under peak workloads. The study found that mice lacking this protein experienced severe cardiac distress and died, while those with it survived stress tests.
Researchers will use computational biolinguistics to analyze protein sequences and understand their structure, dynamics, and function. This project aims to extract information from gene sequences that may lead to developing drugs to fight degenerative diseases.
A recent survey of over 100 academic medical centers found that anesthesiology faculty members and residents have substance abuse rates of 1% and 1.6%, respectively, during their personal time. The most commonly abused medication is fentanyl, often discovered through overdose or by tracking dispensed drugs.
A phase II study of 100 patients with previously untreated HIV found that kaletra held the virus at undetectable levels for four years, with 72% maintaining suppressed viral loads. The results suggest that Kaletra remains a crucial option for initial therapy, helping to prolong time to resistance development.
Experts will share insights on developing and marketing natural medicinal products for economic feasibility and public health. The summit aims to draft a consensus statement on the safety and effectiveness of these products, which have gained popularity with numerous claims but lack research support.
The initiative involves over 50 investigators in Seattle and Vancouver, B.C., aiming to develop improved therapies for men with recurrent or advanced disease. Prostate cancer affects one in six men, with an estimated 189,000 diagnoses this year and 30,200 deaths.
Research found that reducing blood pressure to less than the standard goal also lowered artery stiffness in patients with high blood pressure. The study involved 142 nondiabetic patients who received antihypertensive drugs, resulting in a significant decrease in artery stiffness for those with lower target pressures.
Researchers at Mayo Clinic developed a new calculator to determine baseline prognosis and treatment benefits for patients with resected melanoma. The tool calculates patient potential living with no recurring cancer or after surgery and interferon therapy, empowering informed treatment decisions.
A new agreement between NIDA and SAMHSA will facilitate the dissemination of research findings from NIDA's treatment research to practitioners across the US, enhancing treatment practices. The initiative aims to reduce the time between discovering an effective treatment and its adoption in community-based care.
Researchers found that 43% of participants with mild cognitive impairment had psychiatric symptoms, and 75% of those with dementia did. The study highlights the importance of recognizing and treating these symptoms to improve patient outcomes.
Researchers at the Mayo Clinic document a safer treatment approach for atrial fibrillation, utilizing adequate anticoagulation medication to reduce the risk of stroke and thromboembolism. The study, conducted from 1990-1994, involved 834 successful cardioversions performed in 717 patients, with an incidence rate of less than 1%.
The study reveals how aluminum floc forms in polluted streams, binding to toxic metals and transporting them downstream, harming fish and other aquatic animals. Understanding the molecular pathways of this process may lead to practical solutions to prevent the reactions.
A recent study found that stent-assisted angioplasty reduced the need for repeat revascularization by 14% compared to CABG. Additionally, patients who received angioplasty experienced a lower risk of subsequent heart attack (5%) than those given CABG (8%).
A study by Johns Hopkins Medicine finds that Ecstasy use can cause severe brain dopamine deficits and potentially lead to parkinsonism in humans. The researchers administered MDMA to squirrel monkeys and observed significant neuronal injury.
A new study found that a combination of peginterferon alfa-2a and ribavirin can offer superior efficacy without increasing common side effects, particularly in patients infected with hepatitis C genotype 1. The treatment approach showed a higher sustained response rate compared to standard therapy.
A new report suggests that soot particles could have a significant impact on global warming, with potential policy implications. The study's findings introduce new uncertainty into climate models and shift responsibility for reducing pollution to developing nations like China and India.
This year's winners include C. Jeffrey Brinker, Claire M. Fraser, Bruce T. Goodwin, Keith O. Hodgson, Saul Perlmutter, Benjamin D. Santer, and Paul J. Turinsky for their groundbreaking work in materials research, genome analysis, nuclear physics, environmental science, and more.
University of Pittsburgh scientist highlights sub-lethal mechanical trauma's effect on red blood cells, potentially shortening lifespan. Dr. Kameneva discusses the impact on artificial heart development and suggests understanding blood flow and cell interactions to improve device designs.
The tolerance-hyperbaric test (THT) can identify pregnant women at high risk for gestational high blood pressure and preeclampsia up to 23 weeks before clinical confirmation. The test's sensitivity reaches 99% by the third trimester, providing early prevention opportunities.
A new healthcare model is being launched at Duke University Medical Center, focusing on personalized health planning, coaching, and disease prevention. The initiative aims to reduce the risk of heart attack, stroke, and diabetes by empowering patients to make lifestyle changes.
A NASA study suggests that black carbon particles are responsible for changes in precipitation patterns over China, leading to increased flooding in the south and droughts in the north. The study used climate computer models and aerosol data to analyze the effects of black carbon on hydrologic cycles in China and India.
Researchers discovered the chemical principles to reorganize liquids, creating new 'symphonic compositions' with desired optical and electronic properties. The team engineered molecules into glasses and liquids, manipulating their structure to produce changes in properties.
Researchers used genome-wide scanning to uncover genetic causes of Hirschsprung disease, a complex disorder resulting from subtle gene mutations. The study identified two key genes, RET and EDNRB, which must co-exist to cause the disease, providing new insights into its underlying mechanisms.
A study by Cornell University researchers found that urban areas in the US now have an average of 10 more very warm nights a year than rural areas, which has significant implications for heat problems. The growth was highest on the East Coast, with cities like Miami and Los Angeles showing the most extreme temperature trends.
Perlmutter's discovery of the universe's accelerating expansion using supernovae as standard candles revolutionized our understanding of the cosmos. His work, done through the Supernova Cosmology Project, has far-reaching implications for our knowledge of the fundamental nature of the universe.
Women with endometriosis have a higher prevalence of autoimmune inflammatory diseases, hypothyroidism, fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome, allergies, and asthma. A 10-year delay between symptom onset and diagnosis is common, prompting doctors to consider endometriosis in girls and women with pelvic pain.
Research suggests that drinking water can improve a person's ability to stand and reduce the likelihood of fainting, particularly for individuals who donate blood. Healthy participants were tested using tilt-table testing, with results showing an average increase of 40.9 minutes in tolerated standing time when hydrated.
USC researchers are testing a prototype 'e-textile' that can detect faint sounds, specifically distant vehicle movements on future battlefields. The fabric functions as a supersensitive detection array and can be deployed in various ways, such as a parachute or camouflage net.
Researchers examine the mechanisms underlying inactivation of BRCA1 and its impact on patient management. The study assesses the potential usefulness of BRCA1 as a prognostic tool and predictive marker for response to different classes of drugs.
The international Type 1 Diabetes Genetics Consortium will collect and analyze genetic data from 2,500 families worldwide to identify genes contributing to the disease. The consortium aims to clarify the complex interaction between genetics and environment in type 1 diabetes.
A recent study found that nonoxynol-9 spermicide may increase the risk of HIV-1 infection in women due to vaginal lesions caused by frequent use. In contrast, low-frequency use showed no harm or benefit. The findings highlight the need for alternative vaginal microbicides.
SMU and UNC researchers discovered that the E(Z) protein silences genes by modifying a specific chromatin protein, a mechanism found to be conserved in both humans and Drosophila. This breakthrough sheds light on how Polycomb-group proteins regulate gene expression during development.
Researchers at University of Melbourne warn of potential risks in pesticide control due to widespread resistance discovered in Drosophila melanogaster fly species. The gene Cyp6g1 confers resistance by producing more protein that breaks down pesticides, posing significant challenges for future pest management options.
A population-based study of 2,786 diabetic and non-diabetic postmenopausal women found that HRT had a positive effect on blood levels of fats and glucose. Diabetic women on HRT had significantly lower fasting levels of total cholesterol and higher levels of beneficial high-density lipoprotein.