In an effort to improve regeneration, Emory scientists treated severed nerves with enzymes that degrade proteoglycans. Axons regenerated through enzyme-treated tissues more effectively, extending over twice as far as untreated tissues.
Exercise has been found to increase brain capillary volume, particularly in older animals, suggesting physical changes may occur. Additionally, monkeys who exercised showed improved performance and mental engagement compared to sedentary groups.
A genome-wide analysis of 1,875 people found a significant link between a region on chromosome 1 and blood pressure regulation. The study identified 24 genes that may play a role in hypertension, with three genes showing specific genetic changes associated with the condition.
Regular exercise has been shown to have a generalized beneficial effect on how the brain functions, reducing symptoms of depression in both animals and humans. Mental practice can also improve strength and recovery from spinal cord injuries.
A study by Ohio State University researchers found that participants were more likely to incorrectly identify a similar image as part of the original set, even though it was not present. This suggests that visual false memories can be induced using context, challenging our perceptions and memory recall.
Researchers found that CART peptide reduces the effects of cocaine on rodents, leading to a decrease in locomotor activity. They plan to study the mechanism of action and explore its potential as a treatment for cocaine addiction in humans.
A recent study by Michigan Medicine found that only 5% of patients and physicians agreed on their top three treatment goals, but nearly half shared one strategy. Patients who prioritized their healthcare goals with their doctors reported better diabetes management outcomes.
Researchers used fMRI to compare brain activity in children, adolescents and adults while reading simple words aloud, revealing differences in brain function across the lifespan. The study suggests that brain function during language tasks changes with development, potentially shedding light on language disorders.
The NHGRI Large-Scale Sequencing Research Network will sequence a strategic set of animal genomes totaling 54 billion base pairs. The centers aim to produce high-quality assembled genome sequences that researchers can use to address human biology and human health.
Researchers at Thomas Jefferson University have identified a new cell type, the dermal dendrocyte, that increases in number in tumors of early human Kaposi's sarcoma. The discovery offers a potential tool for studying the disease and its connection to abnormal wound healing and other conditions.
Dark matter forms smaller clumps that resemble galaxies and globular clusters in our luminous universe. Computer simulations show these clumps have intricate substructures and dynamic lives independent of visible matter, leading to a template for the visible universe.
A new handbook aims to guide public sector research centers in developing countries on managing intellectual property, providing best practices and supporting materials. The handbook is the result of contributions from authorities in IP management from both developed and developing countries.
Researchers found a polymorphism in the SCL40A1 gene that increases iron storage protein levels, leading to primary iron overload. The mutation is more common in African populations and may explain the high incidence of the disease among African-Americans.
Researchers at University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign have developed the world's fastest transistor, exceeding 509-gigahertz frequency. The device leverages indium phosphide and indium gallium arsenide materials, enabling faster current density and higher operation speeds.
Researchers found that genetic factors play a significant role in coping behaviors, with females exhibiting inherited traits from their grandmothers. The study suggests that understanding the genetic basis of coping behaviors could help develop new treatments for psychiatric disorders.
A study published in Nature reveals that a certain clam species can elongate its foot up to 30 times the length of its shell to access necessary chemicals. The clams, which live in symbiotic relationships with marine bacteria, use their extended feet to burrow extensive mines into sediment.
Researchers found a physical interaction between herpes virus and amyloid precursor protein (APP), suggesting a potential clue to Alzheimer's disease. The discovery may lead to further investigations into the role of the virus in the disease.
The University of Rhode Island has been awarded a four-year, $3.5 million grant from the NIAAA to develop an Environmental Management approach for reducing college drinking. The research team, led by Associate Professor Mark Wood, will work with top student life officials and community members to create a program that addresses environ...
A new study shows that C. elegans progeny derived from sexual reproduction can undergo sex change after birth to better survive chemical changes in the environment and shortages of food. This development allows for increased survival flexibility and gene expression, suggesting that sex is a beneficial strategy for this species.
Open-access initiatives aim to make scientific research freely available online, with proponents arguing that it promotes science and improves human health. Critics, however, suggest that authors' payment models may compromise the quality of published research.
Researchers found that Arabidopsis plants from different latitudes exhibit significant variations in their circadian clocks, suggesting an adaptation to optimize fitness. The study identified five chromosomal regions contributing to the clock mechanism, including multiple genes that work together to control different parts of the process.
Researchers at NIST have designed new Java specifications (JAIN SIP) to enable programmable communication devices. This technology will allow users to choose specific
The nematode worm can alter its sex based on the perceived food availability, affecting the sex ratio. The research helps understand how animals adapt to variable environments and why sex exists.
Researchers found that individuals with celiac disease often struggle to maintain a gluten-free diet outside the home, impacting lifestyle and quality of life. Supplement users, particularly women, face challenges in evaluating and selecting dietary supplements due to confusion over dosage directions, labeling, and claims.
Researchers have developed a method to apply nanowires to glass or plastics at room temperature, enabling the production of efficient computer chips and optical displays. This breakthrough could lead to durable consumer electronics and advanced military applications.
A geologist has found that evolutionary groups have significantly better longevity if they first appear right after a mass extinction event. These groups are more likely to be widespread and thrive afterwards.
The UK trial found no objective evidence that cannabis benefits people with multiple sclerosis, but a majority of patients reported improved symptoms. The study involved over 600 patients and assessed the effectiveness of cannabinoids in reducing muscle stiffness and improving overall wellbeing.
A new gene, BBS8, has been identified as being involved in Bardet-Biedl syndrome, a rare genetic disorder characterized by obesity, learning disabilities, and eye/kidney problems. The protein BBS8 is found only at the base of cilia, which play key roles in mammalian development.
The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) has released an initial public draft of Recommended Security Controls for Federal Information Systems (NIST SP 800-53). The guidelines will become mandatory for most federal systems in 2005, with a wide audience beyond the federal government. NIST invites public comments on the ...
Researchers at Brown University and NIST have confirmed and extended Abrikosov's Nobel theory by tracking current eddies in a type II superconductor. The study revealed complex behavior and provided experimental confirmation of Abrikosov's prediction about smooth phase transitions.
The study found that reporters embedded with military units generally preserved their objectivity, but the practice raised serious concerns. The research also highlighted issues with pro-war bias and unattributed claims in broadcast coverage.
Researchers have discovered large reservoirs of nitrates in desert subsoils, challenging the concept that nitrogen is tightly retained in soil. This finding has implications for potential groundwater nitrate contamination following climate change or land-use alterations in natural deserts.
Dr. Mangelsdorf's work on lipid-sensing proteins and cholesterol metabolism has contributed to the understanding of how the body restores balance following an increase in cholesterol levels. He joins a legacy of renowned UT Southwestern scientists who have also received the Wieland Prize for their groundbreaking research.
Researchers hope that ice cores and ancient plants retrieved from glaciers in the Peruvian Andes may contain clues about a mysterious global climate change that occurred over 5,000 years ago. The cores are expected to provide a critical piece of the puzzle needed to understand climate variability in the region.
A Stanford study found that 18% of Europeans with depressive disorder also had a breathing-related sleep disorder, which can increase the risk of feeling sleepy and irritable. The study suggests that treating sleep apnea may help control depression in patients.
Researchers at Lehigh University discovered that the milky band on cloudy wineglasses is actually a network of microscopic scratches created during glass manufacturing. Repeated washings in the dishwasher can cause these cracks to spread and scatter light, giving the bowl a corroded appearance.
Researchers at USGS and international universities reveal that hot vaporized seawater contributes to the formation of new oceanic crust. High-pressure images of lava cavities show molten salt and exotic minerals formed from steam bubbles, challenging previous assumptions about seawater's boiling point at great depths.
Researchers detected 'atheronals', toxic compounds triggered by ozone in atherosclerotic plaques, suggesting a potential diagnostic marker for late-stage arterial inflammation. Ozone's role in human biology and its implications on diseases like lupus, multiple sclerosis, and rheumatoid arthritis are also explored.
A prospective study in Botswana found that only 1.8% of asymptomatic HIV-infected outpatients with preventive therapy developed TB, rendering routine chest radiography unnecessary for screening in settings where signs and symptoms can be effectively identified.
Leaders at Duke University Medical Center propose a new approach to healthcare that emphasizes personalized health planning and prevention. The plan aims to reduce disease risk by analyzing individual genetic backgrounds, lifestyles, and environments, and providing patients with customized health plans.
The UCI Cancer Center is one of six institutions nationwide chosen to conduct early-phase clinical trials testing cancer prevention agents. The center will receive over $2.2 million initially, with a focus on assessing the potential of various substances in preventing cancer recurrence.
The University of Pittsburgh will focus on clinical trials to test treatment efficacy and tolerance in older cancer patients, while also addressing behavioral and social issues faced by the elderly. The project aims to better understand the needs and concerns of older adults with cancer.
A new TB vaccine, using a killed Mycobacterium vaccae vaccine, has shown to enhance immunity against TB in both HIV-positive and negative patients. The study, conducted in Finland and Tanzania, suggests the vaccine may be an effective tool in preventing TB among high-risk populations.
Women with COPD are accounting for an increasing number of deaths due to rising smoking rates and occupational exposures. The disease was previously thought to be a male-dominated condition, but recent studies have shown that women's lung health has improved significantly over the past few decades.
Researchers use genome-wide location analysis to study how a transcription factor Ste12 responds differently under various environmental conditions. By pinpointing the mechanism, scientists can make predictions of cellular behavior and potentially disrupt certain diseases at the cellular level.
A large-scale trial found no major effect of cannabinoids on spasticity but showed small reductions in walking time and subjective improvements in patients. The study suggests that cannabinoids may be clinically useful in treating MS symptoms, particularly when other treatments fail.
Scientists at Ohio State University have found evidence of silk-spinning structures on the fossilized body of an ancient arachnid, called Aphantomartus pustulatus. The finding suggests that silk-spinning has been around for a long time and could provide insights into the early evolution of arachnids and life on land.
The Cornell Institute for Fuel Cell Development aims to create more efficient and affordable fuel cells by discovering new materials, potentially using alternative fuels like methanol and ethanol. Researchers hope to find compounds that can overcome the limitations of current fuel cell technology.
Cocoa has been found to have the highest antioxidant content among hot water-based beverages, surpassing red wine and green tea. A study comparing the total antioxidant content of these drinks revealed that hot cocoa contains almost twice as many antioxidants as red wine and up to five times more than black tea.
A recent study published in the American Journal of Public Health found that major depression was most prevalent among Hispanics, followed by African Americans and whites. The odds of depressive disorders were significantly higher among older Hispanics due to caregiving responsibilities.
Researchers analyzed data from 18 states and found that high-volume hospitals for Subarachnoid Hemorrhage (SAH) cases have significantly lower mortality rates. The study suggests that centralizing treatment in these high volume centers may improve patient survival.
A study published in Molecular Psychiatry found that a specific gene variant, M129V, affecting the prion protein is associated with changes in cognitive performance. Researchers discovered this link while investigating genetic influences on mental health disorders, also noting a connection to mad cow disease.
Researchers discovered a unique amphibian species, developed new methods for dating hillside erosion, and analyzed trace elements to recreate ancient environments. The team also created a new tool for analyzing basalts and found evidence of ancient volcanoes in Austria's Alps.
Scientists have searched for large electric fields in thunderstorms without success. Dwyer's new theory shows that the atmosphere can only hold a certain sized electric field, stunted by gamma-rays and positrons. The triggering mechanism of lightning remains a mystery.
Researchers found that overweight boys experience greater increases in blood pressure during stress, but their ability to restore normal pressures is impaired. In contrast, overweight girls have a more effective natural mechanism for reducing blood pressure, which may be attributed to the effects of estrogen.
Researchers are using stable isotopes in bird feathers to track migration patterns and wintering grounds, revealing previously unknown information about bird dispersal. This technique provides a faster and more cost-effective alternative to traditional methods like banding, allowing scientists to gather data on a wider scale.
A new study reveals that PET scans can significantly improve the accuracy of predicting Alzheimer's disease progression in patients with early memory complaints. By analyzing brain metabolic patterns, doctors can better diagnose and intervene earlier, potentially delaying cognitive decline.
Researchers found that lupus patients' autoantibodies accumulated in the blood in a predictable pattern before diagnosis, slowing down after therapy. The study's findings may help identify and monitor people at risk of developing autoimmune diseases like lupus.
The University of Minnesota is receiving a $1 million grant to expand its assisted living services for the elderly using telemedicine technology. The VALUE project will bring healthcare services directly into the homes of elderly people who lack access to affordable care.
A recent report assesses NIH-sponsored clinical research, revealing notable advancements but also areas that require improvement. The report highlights the impact of competitive loan-relief programs, increased private funding, and initiatives like the Training Curriculum in Patient-Oriented Research.