Researchers discovered a specific protein, PFT1, that triggers flowering in Arabidopsis plants under suboptimal light conditions. The study's findings have implications for improving crop yield and addressing world hunger, particularly in regions where malnutrition is prevalent.
A new air-drying technique allows stored sperm to be transported without special equipment, relieving laboratories of sperm care. This method also reduces the risk of HIV transmission and gives owners more control over disposal decisions.
Researchers used NASA's Electrostatic Levitator to prove a 50-year-old hypothesis on nucleation, a process crucial for materials and biological systems. The study showed that liquid metals resist turning into solids due to an atomic 'nucleation barrier', a fundamental mismatch in atom arrangement.
A structured stop-and-start drug regimen could extend care to more patients in resource-poor countries while reducing HIV drug toxicity. However, the high cost of drugs needed for the study poses a significant challenge to its success.
The Egyptian Mediterranean Sea fishery has recovered due to increased phosphorus and nitrogen in urban waste water, changing the ecosystem's productive engine. This shift has important consequences for lower food web structure and larval fish.
The European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL) and EMBO have agreed on a framework for cooperation, paving the way for formal agreements among member states. This development is expected to strengthen bioscience research in Europe, with the aim of supporting innovative projects and promoting collaboration.
Researchers at USC's Information Sciences Institute built a state-of-the-art machine translation system for Hindi in less than a month, achieving all aspects of the DARPA's 'Surprise Language' project. The system uses statistical models to find the most likely translations and can query Hindi databases using English questions.
Researchers have successfully transplanted uteri into mice, paving the way for future womb transplants in humans. The study found that transplanted uteri can harbour pregnancies and rejection patterns are similar to other organs.
Researchers found that fibroleukin is a prothrombinase that contributes to the development of thrombosis in viral hepatitis. The study suggests a potential link between fibroleukin and the progression of viral hepatitis, highlighting the importance of further investigation into this area.
Studies on prophylactic surgery for women with BRCA1/2 mutations show a significant reduction in breast and ovarian cancer risk. However, potential biases in study designs, such as confounding by indication and familial-event bias, may lead to underestimation of risk reduction.
Researchers at UCLA Neuropsychiatric Institute and Georgetown University Medical Center found medication and cognitive behavioral therapy effective in treating depression among low-income minority women. Sixty percent of participants were at or below federal poverty guidelines, with many experiencing abuse and domestic violence.
A study by Elizabeth Asung found that the risk of ectopic pregnancies after IVF-ET decreases with age in women with tubal disease. This is a surprising finding, as the risk typically increases with age in the general population. The study analyzed data from 97,240 women aged 18-50 who underwent IVF between 1991 and 1999.
Scientists investigate rice genome for clues on seed dormancy, a key trait to fight preharvest sprouting. They develop populations segregating for dormancy and identify genetic attributes associated with heritability.
Scientists have identified a new class of proteins that promote angiogenesis, the formation of new blood vessels. Del-1 protein, discovered four years ago, has been found to be stable and continually stimulate angiogenesis. The researchers hope to use this knowledge to develop therapies that can inhibit angiogenesis in cancer.
Researchers found new regions of the genome under circadian control using a technique called gene trapping, contradicting accepted dogma. The study suggests that clock-controlled mRNA synthesis may be more common than previously estimated, potentially leading to improved crop productivity and resistance to stressful conditions.
Researchers discover PlGF-1 stabilizes vessel growth in premature infants, preventing retinal detachment and blindness. The study suggests a promising therapeutic agent to prevent oxygen-induced vascular degeneration in ROP.
The NIMH has awarded $22.6 million to a new Center for Collaborative Research on Mental Disorders, aiming to advance understanding of genetic origins of mental health conditions such as autism and schizophrenia. The center will facilitate data sharing and analysis to accelerate gene discovery and develop novel therapeutic targets.
Infertility in developing countries is largely due to preventable causes such as sexually transmitted diseases. Accessible preventative treatments can help tackle the issue, reducing stigma and social ostracization.
Researchers found that high zinc intake was associated with an increased risk of advanced prostate cancer, but not with lower doses. The studies also failed to find evidence of simian virus 40 (SV40) DNA in non-Hodgkin's lymphoma samples.
Researchers found that medication and cognitive behavioral psychotherapy (CBT) treatments significantly alleviated symptoms of depression in young Latinas and African-American women. The study, funded by the National Institute of Mental Health, confirmed that standard treatments can be effective for low-income minority women.
Researchers have successfully created an artificial egg using somatic cells, a breakthrough that could lead to new treatments for infertility. The study involved transferring the nucleus of a somatic cell into an immature oocyte and then inducing chromosome segregation to produce a haploid egg.
A new study finds that pairing medication with intensive outreach and encouragement significantly reduces depressive symptoms and improves daily functioning among low-income, minority women. The treatment approach was most effective for this population compared to traditional care.
A study by Dr Ole Christiansen found that women who gave birth to a boy first were at higher risk for subsequent miscarriages and may not be able to carry a child to full term without treatment. The researcher believes that the immune system's reaction to male foetuses is the explanation for these findings.
Research found that daily consumption of full cream milk and butter was associated with lower rates of asthma and wheeze in pre-school children. Antioxidants and other micronutrients in these products may play a role in this beneficial effect.
Researchers found no evidence that homicide detectives spend less time on cases involving African-American victims. The study, published in the Journal of Research in Crime and Delinquency, examined 802 murders in Columbus, Ohio between 1984-1992.
A computer vision study reveals that the brain processes facial recognition and emotional expression in linked neural pathways. The researchers developed a model that explains how humans recognize familiar faces and emotions, which can be applied to create more accurate face-recognition systems.
The Amorphophallus titan, or 'Ted the Titan,' produces a distinctive odor to attract flies for pollination. Scientists have identified compounds in the plant's scent that are similar to those found in rotting meat, and research is underway to isolate these compounds and explore their potential uses.
A new study led by Janice Kiecolt-Glaser and Ronald Glaser found that caregivers of chronically ill patients experience prolonged immune disregulation, increasing their risk for age-related diseases. The research suggests that chronic stress and caregiving duties can have lasting effects on the immune system.
Spanish fertility experts have found a protein called Vascular Endothelial cadherin linked to ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome. The study suggests that modulating the way ovaries are stimulated can reduce the risk of severe OHSS. Researchers propose a novel approach, 'coasting', which enables treatment cycles to continue with less risk.
UCSD researchers define multiple steps initiated by COX-2 enzymes, including cyclic adenosine monophosphate and Inhibitors of Apoptosis, leading to suppressed cell killing and uncontrolled growth. The study also explains how aspirin and NSAIDs can reduce colon cancer incidence by inhibiting COX-2.
Research shows a significantly higher prevalence of PCO/PCOS in lesbian women compared to heterosexual women. The study found that hormones such as testosterone and luteinizing hormone were significantly higher in lesbian women, suggesting a link between PCOS and sexual orientation.
Researchers have identified a subgroup of cells in amniotic fluid that express the protein Oct-4, a key marker for human pluripotent stem cells. These cells have shown potential to differentiate into nerve cells and could potentially replace embryonic stem cells, reducing the need for human embryos.
A study at Royal Hallamshire Hospital found that most death certificates were completed by junior medical staff, with only a third issued by senior members. Necropsy rates have declined since 1993, raising concerns about the impact of recent 'organ retention scandal'.
The European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology's new chairman, Professor Arne Sunde, argues against a total ban on embryo-based research. He suggests that alternative stem cell sources, such as those derived from amniotic fluid or adult tissues, may become important for research and treatment in the future.
A recent study found that individuals with higher education levels have better diet quality compared to those with lower education levels. The gap in diet between higher and lower educated groups may explain the disparity in health between socioeconomic groups in the US. Despite overall improvements in dietary habits, there are still s...
A new study by Ohio State University researchers found that some reported gender differences in sexual behavior might be due to women being less than honest when surveyed. Women's answers were closer to men's in certain areas of sexual behavior when they thought lies could be detected, while men's answers didn't change as much.
A study found that long-term caregivers experienced a rapid increase in proinflammatory cytokine levels, which continued even after the care recipient died. The research suggests that chronic stress can prematurely age the immune response and contribute to various age-related diseases.
Researchers discovered that friendly bacteria and human hormones send cellular signals alerting E. coli to its location, leading to colonization and toxin release. Beta blockers may be developed to block this signaling system, preventing the bacteria from reaching the intestine.
Phosphate reduction is achieved within a week of treatment with lanthanum carbonate, a new phosphate binder. This effective treatment reduces serum calcium levels and improves cardiovascular health in end-stage renal disease (ESRD) patients.
Researchers at USC successfully simulated the somatic hypermutation process in vitro, closely mirroring its natural occurrence. This breakthrough enables the development of an in vitro system that can mimic the body's immune response.
A new study published in American Journal of Hypertension found that the Resperate device significantly reduced blood pressure in patients with hard-to-control refractory hypertension. The 8-week study demonstrated that daily self-treatment with the device reduced blood pressure, even in those taking multiple antihypertensive medications.
NYU researchers identify a gene, luxS, necessary for robust growth of the bacterium in test tubes. This discovery opens up new avenues for developing antagonists or inhibitors to control anthrax, a highly lethal bacterial infection.
The Surf Zone Crawler, a fully autonomous amphibious vehicle, can follow search instruction plans, classify and map underwater mines in turbulent ocean surf zones. It has been used to search under the World Trade Center after 9/11, Afghan caves, and underwater wreckage off Normandy's beaches, with plans to deploy it in Iraq.
A study of children born after in vitro maturation indicates the technique is safe. The children, aged two to four years old, achieved higher than average scores in developmental tests. They were found to be healthy with no notable exceptions, supporting the safety and effectiveness of IVM for women with polycystic ovarian syndrome.
A study by Kaiser Permanente found that targeted interventions to increase multivitamin use among women of childbearing age had no significant long-term impact. Despite efforts to educate healthcare providers and pharmacists, the success of these interventions was hampered by inadequate implementation and lack of behavioral change.
A Stanford study found that nearly 18 months and 17% of the total research budget were spent on IRB activities, with no impact on human subject protection. The researchers hope to lead further examination of IRB procedures and weigh the cost and benefits of multi-center review for minimal-risk studies.
A two-year study examines factors influencing female students' entry into and exit from RIT's IT program, comparing them to those in CS programs. The research aims to inform strategies for improving female student retention in IT departments.
A study published in the American Journal of Public Health found that Hurricane Floyd caused substantial changes in healthcare patterns that lasted for over a year. The storm led to increased use of emergency rooms and outpatient services, particularly among Medicaid recipients, with estimated costs of $13.3 million.
A recent study found that schools' a la carte options are displacing fruits and vegetables in the diets of middle schoolers. The researchers discovered that nearly four out of every five snacks sold through these programs were high-fat, while only low-cost and healthy items should be added to menus.
Researchers found that adding interleukin-6 to the preservative solution before transplantation significantly increased post-transplant survival of rats receiving organs with fatty degeneration. The treatment reduced cell death and improved liver function in steatotic livers, suggesting a promising strategy for addressing organ shortages.
The head of Germany's IVF registry warns that outdated ART laws are putting patients at risk of multiple pregnancies and related complications. The German experience shows a strong correlation between embryo transfer number and multiple pregnancy incidence, with women under 35 being more likely to have twins or triplets.
A study published in the American Journal of Public Health found that a combination of factors, including unemployment, access to firearms, highly controlling behavior, and separation, increases the likelihood of female murder by their partner. Researchers identified key risk factors that can help identify women at high risk of homicide.
Researchers have identified a genetic variant in the calcineurin pathway that may be linked to schizophrenia. The study found that mice lacking this gene exhibited severe behavioral abnormalities similar to those seen in humans with the disorder, including hyperactivity and social withdrawal.
The US Preventive Services Task Force recommends against use of beta-carotene supplements for cancer or cardiovascular disease prevention due to lack of benefit and potential harm. Lawsuits involving human subjects research are increasing, leading to more careful research and increased costs, according to experts.
A specific gene variation, CYP2A6del, may inhibit smokers from quitting and protect against pulmonary emphysema. The study found that this allele was more common in heavy smokers who consumed fewer cigarettes and had a lower risk of developing lung disease.
A team of Marine Corps reconnaissance swimmers, Navy SEALS, Explosive Ordnance divers, dolphins, and REMUS worked together to clear mines from Iraq's port. REMUS successfully located potential targets, allowing the dolphins to inspect and report back on its findings.
A French team of fertility experts discovered that maternal genetic imprinting errors can occur during egg follicle development in mice. The research found that methylation patterns, essential for normal development, were disrupted at the earliest stages of in-vitro cultivation.
The European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology (ESHRE) has reaffirmed its ban on human reproductive cloning due to significant practical and ethical risks. The organization believes that the generation of clones could infringe upon human dignity, increase genetic determinism, and restrict autonomy.
The study found that single embryo transfer (SET) does not reduce the chances of having a baby, with similar cumulative live birth rates to dual transfers when previously frozen embryos are included. SET also carried fewer risks to mothers and fetuses, with only three sets of twins out of 107 women.
Researchers discovered that a single life-extending mutation affects multiple genes, including those controlling cellular stress response and metabolic processes. The study reveals the intricate connections between genetic pathways and their impact on lifespan.