A study by UCSF researchers reveals that the human gene BOULE regulates meiosis in sperm development, a key step in creating sperm and eggs. The finding has significant implications for understanding infertility and developing new treatments, including drugs to assist immature sperm cells or block sperm maturation.
A 22-year study tracked the health histories of 736 youths from childhood into early adulthood, finding that moderate to heavy tobacco, alcohol, or marijuana use during adolescence was associated with an increased risk of depression and psychiatric disorders in young adulthood. The study suggests a complex relationship between drug abu...
Researchers successfully expanded the genetic code of E. coli bacteria, creating a self-sufficient organism that can produce new amino acids on its own. The breakthrough could lead to enhanced function in organisms and provide answers to questions about why life settled on 20 natural amino acids.
Researchers discovered a gene mutation associated with a form of Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease, affecting approximately 1 in 2,000 people. The LITAF gene mutation was found in families with a history of the disease, suggesting its potential as a molecular marker for diagnosis.
Despite being enrolled in a clinical trial comparing anti-clotting agents, African American stroke patients show poor rates of awareness, treatment, and control of diabetes, hypertension, and high cholesterol. These findings are concerning, as heart disease and stroke can be prevented with vigilant risk factor management.
Researchers surveyed 462 black teen girls between 14-18 years old and found that those who wanted to become pregnant were more likely to have an older partner and report low self-esteem. The study suggests targeting adolescent boys for early pregnancy prevention programs.
Researchers have found a new Parkinson's drug to be effective in improving symptoms, with participants receiving 1mg of Rasagiline showing significant improvements compared to those on 2mg. The study calls for further research to evaluate the long-term effects of Rasagiline on the progression of the disease.
A study found that cocaine use in rats has distinct effects on adolescents versus adults. Adolescent rats showed stable activity levels during treatment, whereas adults developed increased sensitivity to the drug's effects. Additionally, adult rats had altered neurochemical adaptations, including increased dopamine transporter density.
Researchers found that sigma receptor antagonists reduced toxic and stimulant effects of cocaine in mice, indicating a possible link between sigma receptors and cocaine's actions. Antisense oligodeoxynucleotides also showed promise in reducing cocaine's effects by decreasing sigma receptor numbers.
A research team discovered the Notch signaling pathway is responsible for the chick embryo's periodic production of somites, which are precursors to vertebrae. Abnormalities in this process can lead to severe vertebral column defects and scoliosis.
Researchers have devised a method to correct RNA splicing defects implicated in breast cancer and spinal muscular atrophy. The technique uses designer molecules that can be programmed to bind to specific pieces of RNA, correcting the splicing error and producing normal messenger RNA.
A recent study reveals that the global housing boom is driven by a trend of smaller households, leading to increased resource use and habitat loss. The researchers analyzed demographic data from the United Nations and found that the growth in new housing units worldwide exceeds population growth, particularly in biodiversity hotspots.
Studies show that the left hemisphere processes meaningful semantic content automatically, while the right hemisphere is involved in processing emotional prosody. Researchers used Transcranial Doppler Ultrasonography to measure blood flow velocity in the brain's middle cerebral arteries when participants identified emotions conveyed th...
A study by Michigan State University scientist Jianguo Liu and colleagues found that household dynamics, including smaller households and urban sprawl, contribute to biodiversity loss and increased resource consumption. The results highlight the need for policy changes to protect wildlife habitats and ecosystem services.
The HHS research plan aims to improve understanding of autoimmune diseases through genetic and environmental factor studies. The plan also calls for developing new treatments and diagnostics, as well as public education campaigns.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Lupus Center and Kimmel Cancer Center found that high-dose intravenous cyclophosphamide can lead to complete responses and partial responses in lupus patients who failed standard therapy. The treatment also had fewer side effects compared to traditional treatments.
Bazer and Roberts identified proteins and mechanisms that regulate embryo development, fetal growth, and immune competence. Their research has clarified the biological mystery of signaling between embryo and mother to establish and maintain pregnancy in mammals.
A new method called GFT NMR increases data collection speed by orders of magnitude while increasing accuracy, potentially revolutionizing protein structure determination. This breakthrough could enable scientists to harness the power of latest NMR machines and cryogenic probes.
Researchers have discovered a genetic mutation in the DKC1 gene that causes a rare, fatal X-linked recessive disease characterized by premature aging, bone marrow failure, and increased cancer risk. The study suggests that ribosome dysfunction, rather than telomerase impairment, is the primary cause of this syndrome.
A new study by the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill found that socioeconomic factors do not equally impact child obesity rates among different ethnic groups. The research suggests that focusing on social and environmental factors can lead to more effective weight management, particularly in minority populations.
Rice University scientists develop a nanosensor that can precisely analyze chemical information, opening doors for new methods to examine single molecules. The technology has widespread applications in environmental science, chemistry and biosensing, with potential early detection of cancer.
The study found that whole-body 18F-FDG PET scanning resulted in a change in treatment plans for 55 patients, avoiding unnecessary irradiation and treatment costs. PET scans also detected previously undiagnosed distant metastases in some cases, sparing patients from futile radiation therapy.
A new study by Dee W. Edington, Ph.D., of the University of Michigan found that individuals with obesity incur significantly higher medical costs than those with normal weight, with average annual costs rising from $2,225 to $3,753 for obese individuals. The economic burden of obesity is estimated to be substantial, with conservative e...
A recent study by Whitaker investigator Phil Bayly and his collaborators tested four brands of headgear, finding that they failed to dampen the impact of heading a soccer ball. The researchers used pressure sensors and metal mannequin heads to simulate heading at different speeds, revealing that only the fastest speed eased the impact.
A recent study found that gyms in western Oregon fail to meet ADA guidelines for accessibility, with pathways and customer service areas being the most non-compliant. The researchers offer specific recommendations for improvement, available online.
Molecular signals play a critical role in separating the lymphatic system from the circulatory system during fetal development. The study sheds light on the mechanisms behind this separation and its potential therapeutic applications, including influencing blood vessel growth and tumor treatment.
A new UC Davis study reveals that C-reactive protein (CRP) plays a key role in the formation of blood clots and plaque buildup in arteries, increasing the risk of heart attacks and strokes. High CRP levels can be reduced by losing weight, exercising regularly, or taking statin drugs.
Scientists have developed a new theory explaining the formation of large-scale magnetic fields in galaxies, which twist and expand like elastic ribbons. The theory resolves a long-standing problem in astrophysics by showing how turbulence creates opposing small-scale fields that eventually suppress growth.
Researchers have identified a mutated form of the enzyme PDGFRA, which is found in many body tissues and may trigger gastrointestinal stromal tumors. The study validates a novel molecular technology that can be used to find additional targets for cancer treatments.
Researchers found that calorie-restricted diets reduced levels of proteins linked to cell death and increased beneficial protein ARC, which prevents neuron death. The findings have significant implications for alleviating memory loss and mental declines associated with aging.
Researchers at UMass developed a method to create robust capsules from nanometer-sized particles and make them water-soluble by shining light on them. The study also found that nanoparticles can be functionalized with tailored properties, such as luminescence, and that larger particles win in assembly competitions.
Researchers have identified the KCNQ1 gene as the primary cause of familial atrial fibrillation, a condition affecting nearly one in 20 individuals over 65. The mutation leads to excessive potassium channel activity, disrupting normal heart rhythms and increasing the risk of heart failure.
A UCI study reveals a new method to identify and track specific sources of water pollution at beaches by combining bacteria sampling with genetic testing. The approach has already led to significant reductions in bacteria levels and beach closures in Catalina Island.
Scientists have identified a third light detection system in the eye, which is linked to the melanopsin gene. This discovery could explain why we stay awake during the day and may lead to new therapies for disorders such as jet-lag and Seasonally Affective Disorder (SAD)
Researchers identify a crucial pathway in the retina that allows the pupil to respond to light, even when rods and cones are absent. This discovery suggests a complex non-visual photoreceptive system in the inner retina that helps regulate the body's internal clock and unconscious activities.
Scientists find that northern right whales in Grand Manan Basin are exposed to substantial amounts of paralytic shellfish poisoning toxins, which can cause chronic impairment and death. The toxins may affect diving capabilities, leading to poorer condition, reduced calving rates, and increased susceptibility to disease.
The study found that students consumed an average of 26 grams of total fat at school, exceeding the recommended 20 grams. A la carte items and student-run stores also contributed to high-fat consumption, with cafeteria lunches being the largest contributor.
The Pacific Ocean's sardine and anchovy regimes alternate every 25 years, affecting the marine food web and climate. These cycles are similar to El Niño events but take place over longer time periods.
Researchers have discovered that the molecule melanopsin is necessary for the pupil to constrict properly in response to light. Melanopsin is part of a distinct light-sensing pathway that complements the primary visual pathway, and its loss affects the pupillary light reflex, which regulates sleep-wake cycles and hormone secretion.
Researchers found that Deinococcus radiodurans' DNA is packed tightly into a ring, preventing breakage and allowing it to withstand extreme stresses. The microbe's unique ring-like DNA structure enables it to repair damaged DNA and survive in harsh environments.
Scientists at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill have discovered a new role for the BLM gene in repairing DNA breaks, which can lead to cancer. The study found that the BLM gene is essential for maintaining genome stability and preventing chromosome rearrangements similar to those seen in follicular lymphoma.
Research suggests that felons and ex-felons could have voted differently in several presidential elections, including the 2000 Bush vs. Gore election, which might have reversed the outcome. This disenfranchisement disproportionately affects working-class poor and African Americans, traditionally voting Democratic.
Researchers found women with atypical lobular hyperplasia (ALH) are three times more likely to develop breast cancer in the same breast, leading to a reevaluation of surgical management and risk reduction strategies. The study's findings also highlight the importance of diligent breast screening for these women.
Researchers discovered yeast cells can recycle their nucleus by removing non-essential components, a critical process for maintaining cellular health. This finding has implications for understanding human diseases such as Bloom's disease, where pieces of nuclei are pinched off into the cytoplasm.
The University of California, Berkeley's robotic telescope has captured the earliest image of a gamma-ray burst's optical afterglow, offering unprecedented data for theorists to study. The data provides key constraints for physical models of gamma-ray bursts and will help astronomers better understand these enigmatic events.
Researchers investigate various aspects of exercise and recreation for individuals with mobility impairments, including the effectiveness of vacuum-assisted prosthetic sockets, the importance of walking speed after stroke, and the development of rehabilitation technologies. These studies aim to improve the lives of people with spinal c...
The NIH has awarded nearly $8 million to the University of Pittsburgh and Magee-Womens Research Institute to develop a microbicide barrier to prevent HIV transmission in women. The project aims to create a safe and effective way for women to protect themselves against sexually transmitted infections, including HIV.
A team of scientists at the University of Rhode Island tested shallow marine systems' response to increased nutrients, focusing on eelgrass survival. They found that rapid leaf elongation and low root growth can indicate a poor prognosis for bed survival in these ecosystems.
A new study reveals that Viagra encourages platelets to aggregate, potentially leading to thrombosis and life-threatening conditions like heart attacks and strokes. The researchers found that the drug's active ingredient raises levels of cGMP, which initially causes platelets to clump but later reverses to prevent excessive buildup.
Scientists are developing an encyclopedia of innate immune system activity using systems biology approaches. This could lead to a better understanding of inflammation and its control, potentially revealing targets for new drugs. The study also explores the use of bioinformatics resources to support research on immune-mediated diseases.
Astronomers have identified a new type of star in a compact binary system, exhibiting properties similar to brown dwarf stars. The discovery sheds light on the formation and evolution of extra-solar planets, which are often found close to their host stars.
Researchers at UNC used antisense oligonucleotides to target RNA splicing pathways implicated in cancer and genetic diseases. The technique successfully sensitized cancer cells to chemotherapy and radiation, offering a potential breakthrough for targeted therapy.
Professor William Johnson seeks to understand ancient reading habits, focusing on the social context rather than individual acts of reading. His research aims to shed light on why the ancients preferred reading aloud and its cultural significance.
A study of over 40,000 individuals reveals that non-physician clinicians are increasingly providing preventive services and working with physicians to care for patients. The findings highlight the importance of effective communication and coordination between physician and non-physician clinicians to improve care quality.
A team of Colorado researchers has discovered a large population of 'proplyd' objects in the Carina Nebula, located 7,300 light-years from Earth. The newly found proplyds are roughly 100 times the diameter of our solar system and are puzzling for several reasons.
Researchers have discovered the first active miniature inverted repeat transposable elements (MITEs) in rice, providing insights into genetic diversity and potential applications in crop improvement. The findings also highlight the importance of active transposable elements in generating tagged mutations that can reveal gene function.
A new study suggests that black holes can form before galaxies, with massive black holes found in even the smallest active galaxies. The research, led by Marianne Vestergaard at Ohio State University, uses a method to estimate the mass of distant black holes and finds that they are often more massive than previously thought.
The American Thoracic Society has named two Department of Veterans Affairs clinician-scientists, Rabih I. Bechara and Pierre P. Massion, as the first recipients of its Research Career Development Award. The award will provide $20,000 per year for three years to support their research on respiratory diseases.
The research aims to identify key players in the innate immune system and study gene expression patterns triggered by microbial invasion. The grant will support a systems biology approach to understand how the system behaves as a whole, ultimately informing novel hypotheses.
Scientists propose that a massive thermal burp could have briefly insulated the moon's core, allowing it to cool quickly and produce a magnetic field. This theory also explains the uneven distribution of metal-rich volcanic rock on the moon's surface.