Drs. Gerald DiBona and John Hall have overturned the medical community's long-held understanding of kidney function, revealing that increased nerve activity leads to high blood pressure. Their research shows that abnormal kidney function causes salt and water excretion to decrease, resulting in hypertension.
A new study by Stanford University geophysicists challenges the widely used time-predictable recurrence model, which estimates the time when an earthquake will occur. The researchers found that the model failed to predict a magnitude 6 quake on the San Andreas Fault in Central California.
Researchers at the University of Florida have demonstrated a novel approach to overcoming gene therapy hurdles by attaching viruses to tiny manufactured balls coated with iron oxide. The microspheres can be targeted using magnets, allowing for more efficient delivery of corrective genes to specific organs or tissues.
Research by Dr Michal Lyons examines the experiences of would-be home-owners in seven cities, revealing that delays in getting a foothold are worst in London and major metropolitan areas. Parental home ownership is crucial for young people's chances of becoming homeowners.
Researchers identified a green tea compound that may block a key cell receptor involved in allergic responses, potentially providing an anti-allergenic effect. The study found that the compound, methylated EGCG, is more potent than previously discovered compounds and may work against various allergens.
Researchers at TSRI have uncovered a mechanism by which plants adjust their flowering cycles to optimize productivity. By manipulating the timing of plant development, crops may be able to produce faster and more nutritious yields.
HHMI has selected 20 'million dollar professors' to promote groundbreaking research in STEM fields and enhance undergraduate education. These experts, including Sarah Elgin, will develop innovative teaching tools and curricula to address the growing demand for interdisciplinary knowledge.
A study found that mentally ill individuals are vulnerable to victimization in conflict situations, particularly those with substance abuse disorders or delusional beliefs. Counseling services can help family members and professionals cope with these individuals while avoiding conflicts.
Researchers have identified two compounds, NAP and SAL, that can prevent ethanol's disruption of L1-mediated cell adhesion, a critical process for brain development. These findings bring the study of fetal alcohol syndrome closer to effective interventions.
A new class of composites has been developed that can store electric charge more efficiently, enabling the creation of artificial muscles and tendons with improved motion. The material also has potential applications in microfluidic systems for drug delivery and smart skins for drag reduction.
The National Lung Cancer Screening Trial (NLST) is a randomized, controlled study aiming to determine the effectiveness of spiral CT scans versus chest X-rays in reducing deaths from lung cancer. Participants will receive annual screenings for three years and their health will be monitored until 2009.
The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation has awarded grants to ten dental schools to expand community-based education programs and increase enrollment of underrepresented minority students. The goal is to reduce gaps in dental care for underserved populations and create a more diverse dental workforce.
Researchers at Stanford University broke the learning process down into smaller steps for adult owls, allowing them to adjust their mental maps more accurately. This method showed promise in overcoming the age-related decline in learning abilities, with implications for treating brain injuries and improving physical therapy outcomes.
The HHMI Professors, 20 research scientists at 19 universities, will focus on engaging and effective approaches to undergraduate science education. They will develop new high-tech teaching tools, provide early research experiences, and mentor minorities to promote diversity in STEM fields.
Researchers have solved the structure of the pre-budding complex, a set of proteins that plays a key role in forming vesicles on the cell's endoplasmic reticulum. The study reveals how the complex assembles on the ER membrane and initiates the process of membrane cargo capture and vesicle budding.
A study by Texas A&M University found that even small amounts of alcohol can impair driving skills and increase the risk of accidents. Drivers with a blood alcohol concentration as low as .04 (half the legal limit) showed significant impairment in their abilities, highlighting the dangers of drinking and driving.
Research by Dugatkin and colleagues shows that observing fights in swordtail fish affects their likelihood of winning. Psychological factors play a significant role in animal societies, predicting the outcome of interactions between group members. These findings have implications for understanding human social dynamics.
Researchers have filled in gaps in the 250 surviving troubadour melodies with various interpretations. Professor John Haines says different influences, such as Arabic-style melodies and waltz-like rhythms, have shaped these songs over time.
A study of community radiologists' mammogram interpretations found wide variation in how often masses, calcifications, and suspicious lesions are detected. False-positive readings increased with patient demographics, training level, and time since graduating from medical school.
A clinical trial found that consuming almonds daily significantly reduces LDL cholesterol levels in hyperlipidemic subjects. The study also showed that eating more almonds increased the reduction of 'bad' cholesterol even further, without resulting in weight gain.
Research highlights increased cervical cancer risk in smokers, while ovarian tumors with BRCA2 mutations also commonly have BRCA1 mutations. A potential therapeutic approach for eliminating malignant urothelial cells is also explored through CD40 ligation.
A study of 24,690 British children found a dose-related association between maternal antibiotic exposure during pregnancy and increased risk of asthma, eczema, and hay fever. Another study on Alaskan sled dogs suggests that 'ski asthma' may be a model for exercise-induced airway injury in humans.
A study by Cardiff University found that the British public is strong on opinions about scientific issues like climate change and biotechnology but weak on actual knowledge. The survey revealed that people's trust in sources like scientists and media outlets is low, suggesting a need for more effective communication strategies.
Using a unique land-based population research technique, Dr. Vaughan improved the accuracy of bighorn sheep counts in the Grand Canyon by analyzing lamb-to-ewe ratios and survival rates. The innovative method allows for helicopter counts while minimizing disruptions to wildlife habitats.
A new study by Penn scientists has found that women's brains have a larger volume of orbital frontal cortex, a region involved in modulating aggression, compared to men. This difference may contribute to the perception of women being less aggressive than men.
Researchers create DNA nanostructures up to 1,000 times smaller than commercial microarrays using the nanografting technique. This breakthrough enables the study of thousands of genes in a cell simultaneously.
Researchers have developed a method to distinguish between human pollution and natural atmospheric particles using MODIS satellite data. This breakthrough allows for more precise quantification of the role of human aerosols in Earth's weather and climate systems.
Researchers at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute created large symmetrical crystals with five-fold crystallographic symmetry using boron carbide. These crystals are rare in nature due to the strain caused by their growth, but may have potential as a hard material for engineering applications.
Young children believe negative traits can be changed, which may help them stay motivated to learn new skills. However, as they grow older, this level of optimism fades and they become more pessimistic about their ability to change.
A study published in JAMA found that continuous care from nurses did not significantly reduce caesarean delivery rates. However, the majority of women preferred this type of care, highlighting the need for widespread changes to hospital practices and caregivers' attitudes.
Researchers develop novel approach to treat thalassemias by blocking aberrant RNA splicing. The new virus effectively repairs existing RNA, restoring correct hemoglobin production and offering a lifeline for patients.
A study found that African American parents of young children prioritize racial pride and self-esteem over promoting mistrust or bias. Home environments rich in Afrocentric culture positively impact cognitive development. Racial socialization is a key component of parenting, influencing child outcomes.
A researcher has reviewed over 350 clinical studies to find evidence-based therapies for stroke prevention, highlighting the underutilization of anti-coagulation therapy in high-risk patients. The study aims to make this evidence accessible to clinicians to improve healthcare outcomes.
The discovery of a companion planet to Tau1 Gruis star with a relatively long-period orbit and mass similar to Jupiter sheds new light on the formation of giant planets. Researchers found that most giant planets likely form at Jupiter-like distances from their host stars.
Researchers found an unusually high incidence of depressive symptoms among affluent girls compared to national averages. Substance use was also common among both boys and girls, with a connection between distress levels and substance use identified.
A Toronto-based researcher has developed a system that uses acoustic signals to locate and orient devices, mimicking the navigation abilities of blind people. The technology could lead to improved communication devices such as cell phones or hand-held computers within five to ten years.
A study published in the Journal of Marketing Research found that ad repetition can be confusing for consumers. Students who were mentally engaged with ads performed better at matching product names and slogans than those who were not, suggesting a positive effect of mental engagement on memory.
Researchers studied Candida albicans in the presence of fluconazole and found changes in hundreds of genes. The altered genes displayed three distinct patterns that can be targeted with companion drugs, delaying or preventing drug resistance.
A study by Tiffany Yip and Andrew J. Fuligni found that adolescents' sense of ethnicity increased with participation in ethnic activities, such as speaking Chinese or eating Chinese food. The researchers also discovered a stronger connection between feeling Chinese and positive feelings in boys compared to girls.
Researchers developed a computer model of blood flow in the aorta, identifying areas prone to disturbed flows that could lead to atherosclerosis. The model uses CAT scan images and predicts where oscillating flows may cause damage, allowing doctors to assess heart disease risk.
A study found that vitamin E supplements did not slow the progression of atherosclerosis in healthy individuals, despite reducing oxidized LDL cholesterol levels. The research suggests that antioxidant therapy may be beneficial for specific groups, such as younger individuals or those with high-risk profiles.
A study found that black single mothers in rural Georgia who had high self-esteem and optimism implemented good parenting practices, such as open discussions and supervision. These factors were linked to their children developing good self-regulation, which predicted performing well in school and handling social situations well.
A recent study found that youth who experience discrimination report a higher stress burden, particularly black students who face more frequent experiences with prejudice. The research also highlights the importance of strong racial identity in enhancing self-esteem for black youth.
Research studies found small but statistically significant increases in cancer risks among BRCA1 mutation carriers, including colon, liver, pancreatic, and cervical cancers. Additionally, male BRCA1 mutation carriers had a slightly elevated risk of prostate cancer.
A study of Vietnamese refugees in Australia found that most are not at risk of long-term mental illness, but those exposed to high levels of trauma have a higher risk. The research highlights the need for specialized services for this high-risk group.
The Dartmouth team is learning about breast tissue structure and behavior using magnetic resonance elastography, electrical impedance spectral imaging, microwave imaging spectroscopy, and near infrared spectral imaging. By combining these four techniques, they aim to provide a more complete picture of normal and abnormal breast tissue.
A University of Florida-led study examines the effects of wildlife corridors on plant pollination and seed dispersal. The findings suggest that corridors encourage the movement of plants and animals, improving ecosystem health. The large-scale experiment provides valuable insights into the benefits of wildlife corridors.
Researchers at Duke University Medical Center have discovered a rare genetic mutation in sheep that causes large, muscular bottoms without excess fat. The 'callipyge' gene is imprinted, meaning it's only active in the offspring of the affected parent, and its discovery could illuminate how muscle and fat are deposited in humans.
A California study found a significant gender gap in cardiac surgery outcomes among children, with females experiencing 51% higher mortality than males. Researchers hope to uncover the biological basis for this disparity to develop targeted interventions.
A study found that naltrexone significantly reduced relapse rates among Spanish patients with a Mediterranean drinking pattern, demonstrating its effectiveness when combined with psycho-social intervention. The results suggest that naltrexone can be a suitable treatment option for European alcohol-dependent patients.
A Johns Hopkins-led study found that delayed evaluation by a nephrologist increases mortality risk among chronic kidney disease patients. Early evaluation was associated with lower death rates, highlighting the importance of timely specialist care.
The study tracked the movement of individual cancer cells in real-time using computer automation. The research revealed similarities between breast and skin cancer strains, including oscillation and burrowing into tissue.
Research by Thomas Chen at the University of Connecticut has shown that a new growth hormone treatment can increase fish size by up to 600 percent. The treatment involves using a synthetic peptide to stimulate growth, with potential applications in reducing feed costs and increasing fish yields.
Weaves technology enables scalable network emulation, allowing for large-scale testing without requiring software rewrites. The system creates a virtual world to mimic real-world conditions, ensuring equivalence between test and actual results.
A recent study has identified a rare gene variant, ADH2*2, as a protective factor against alcohol dependence in Jewish individuals. Those with the variant gene tend to drink less frequently and experience more unpleasant reactions to alcohol.
Researchers found that patients who left hospital against medical advice were more likely to be readmitted with the same diagnosis. Brief interventions addressing underlying conditions and direct communication of reasons for continuing hospital stay may help prevent discharges.
Dr. Griffin and her team have made significant discoveries about the role of interleukin-1 in Alzheimer's disease, a progressive brain disorder. They've identified genetic variants associated with over-expression of IL-1, which can trigger inflammation and damage to neurons.
The UT Southwestern and U.T. Dallas are receiving a $8 million NIH grant to establish the first national clinical trials network for Sickle Cell Disease. The center will focus on treatment and research initiatives to improve patient outcomes.
A recent study found that Australians now spend significantly more on unproven therapies compared to prescribed pharmaceuticals, with a notable increase in the use of alternative treatments and consultations. This trend is concerning, as many alternative medicines have not been rigorously tested or proven safe.
The US Preventive Services Task Force recommends routine osteoporosis screening to reduce fracture risk in women with low bone density. The optimal frequency of testing is unclear, but intervals of two to five years are most consistent with current understanding.