Researchers at Johns Hopkins discovered a compound that doubles the hearts' ability to contract and relax, stimulating the release of calcitonin gene-related peptide. This improvement is particularly notable in failing hearts, without any reported toxicity.
Archaeologists have found a 4,000-year-old gourd fragment bearing an archaic image of the Staff God, the principal deity in South America. The discovery pushes back the origin of organized religion in the Americas by over 1,000 years, indicating that the Andean civilization began practicing religion more than previously thought.
Researchers at the University of Rochester have developed a new DNA chip that can rapidly detect and identify dangerous pathogens. The chip uses a simple method to analyze genetic material quickly and accurately, eliminating time-consuming steps typically used in traditional techniques.
Researchers are developing a sensor to monitor carbon-carbon composite materials in structures. The team uses ultrasound to identify degradation mechanisms and contamination effects, enabling them to quantify the impact on material integrity. They expect to complete a prototype sensor system by 2003.
A study by Tufts University biologists found that female fireflies are attracted to males with longer flashes, indicating they can be better fathers. The length of a male's flash is related to the quality and quantity of his 'nuptial gift', which provides essential nutrition for his offspring.
A recent study found that alcohol use can exacerbate injury severity in motor vehicle crashes, increasing the risk of bleeding, heart problems, and organ damage. The study's findings suggest that clinicians should take an active role in preventing alcohol use where there is risk of injury.
The national report outlines three basic areas of genomic research, including understanding the relationship between genomics and race/ethnicity. It also emphasizes the importance of addressing ethical, legal, and social implications of genomic research, such as genetic testing and its impact on individuals and society.
A 50-amino-acid stretch of the amyloid precursor protein (APP) jams mitochondria and endoplasmic reticulum, starving cells of energy. This leads to neuronal death, a hallmark of Alzheimer's disease, according to Penn researchers.
A new study found that individuals who included Yoplait Light in their diets lost 22% more weight, 61% more body fat, and 81% more trunkal (stomach) fat compared to those on a low-calcium diet. The calcium-rich diet helped participants maintain lean muscle mass and reduce waist circumference.
A new study analyzed data from the Nurses' Health Study and found that 69% of sudden cardiac deaths in women were the first sign of heart disease. Women with smoking, diabetes, hypertension, or obesity had significantly increased risk of SCD, while high cholesterol was not associated with elevated risk.
Recent studies investigate the toxic potential of ultrafine and fine particles, finding worsening health outcomes for people with chronic heart and lung disease. Exposure to small particles also contributes to increased risk of emergency visits, hospitalizations, and death.
A study found that increasing Vitamin B-6 intake rapidly improved its status and decreased DNA strand breaks in both smokers and non-smokers. The researchers also suggested that Vitamin B-6 has a high prevalence of inadequate dietary intake in the general population, particularly among smokers.
Researchers discovered that triclosan, a common anti-bacterial agent, converts to dioxin when exposed to sunlight in river water. The conversion occurs between one percent and 12 percent of the triclosan present, producing a form of dioxin at least 150,000 times less toxic than its most dangerous form.
Certican has been shown to target underlying causes of chronic allograft dysfunction and late graft loss, including acute rejection and vascular remodelling. The drug demonstrated superiority over azathioprine in reducing acute rejection episodes and pulmonary function decline.
A new study found that strengthening upper leg muscles does not protect against knee osteoarthritis and may even worsen it in people with certain knee conditions. Researchers also discovered that one-third of cancer patients who died received chemotherapy in their last six months of life.
A study found that prenatal alcohol exposure of less than one drink per day can impair executive functioning (EF) in early childhood, including working memory, planning, and inhibitory control. Children exposed prenatally to alcohol had difficulty following rules and performing tasks that required inhibition.
Researchers have discovered that adult hearts contain stem cells capable of regenerating muscle tissue lost due to disease or wear. These findings open the possibility for the development of restorative therapies following heart attacks and other cardiovascular diseases.
New research presented at the AAN Annual Meeting includes promising treatments for MS, potential therapeutic targets for worsening ataxia in ALS, and a connection between Chlamydia infection and increased stroke risk. Statins also show promise in reducing cognitive decline and improving recovery from stroke.
Chronic alcoholism damages the cerebellum and frontal lobes, leading to motor deficits that persist even after long-term abstinence. Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) reveals that alcoholics' brains compensate for damage by recruiting new brain regions to perform simple tasks.
A new study published in Archives of General Psychiatry reveals that high prenatal alcohol use significantly increases the risk of a child developing drinking-related problems by age 21. The research found that 14% of young adults with prenatal exposure to five or more drinks per occasion had alcohol problems, compared to just 4.5% wit...
Several studies present encouraging results for wavefront-guided LASIK, leading to sharper vision and fewer nighttime difficulties. The technology tailors laser beam settings to individual patients' visual imperfections, enhancing sharpness and patient satisfaction.
Scientists identified a genetic key to TB bacteria survival in lung cells, revealing that SecA2 protein is crucial for virulence and secreting antioxidant molecules. This finding may aid treatment development and has implications for other disease-causing bacteria.
A recent study found that most women (72%) experience some level of pain during mammography, but this does not deter them from returning for follow-up screening. The study also discovered a link between the timing of mammograms and pain levels in premenopausal women.
Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center have developed a thin plastic sensor that changes color based on glucose concentrations. The sensor, embedded in contact lenses, allows patients to monitor their glucose levels without drawing blood.
A new technique developed by Malins' laboratory uses Fourier transform-infrared spectroscopy to analyze DNA from prostate tumor biopsies, allowing doctors to identify patients at high risk for metastasis. This breakthrough enables more informed treatment decisions and potentially saves lives.
A study found that heavy drinkers with fragmentary blackouts misremember drinking experiences while expecting positive outcomes. This phenomenon can contribute to problem drinking by reinforcing distorted beliefs about alcohol's effects.
A new theory describes a fundamental pattern that unifies various ecological relationships, providing insight into species abundance and biodiversity. The theory also suggests a predictable relationship between the sizes of rock pieces and species populations.
A Texas forestry sciences researcher has developed a two-dimensional warping model based on the mechanics of layered composites, enabling factory managers to make changes in manufacturing processes. The model uses commercial spreadsheet software to calculate and plot overall linear expansion and out-of-plane warping of wood-based panels.
The Office of Naval Research's Silver Fox UAV is a small tactical UAV equipped with state-of-the-art camera technology and GPS navigation, providing battle-ready Marines with real-time intelligence on enemy positions. With its compact size and long flight endurance, Silver Fox enables the Marine corps to cover large areas of territory ...
A study at Brown University found that novel odors can compromise participants' persistence in word tests due to induced frustration. In contrast, neutral odors had no effect on performance. The research suggests a potential link between emotions and scent-based behavior.
A team of archaeologists has confirmed the historicity of King Solomon's reign, citing evidence from excavations at Tel Rehov in Israel. The findings, published in Science magazine, provide a strong anchor for dating other sites with similar material culture to the time of the United Monarchy.
A recent study found that adolescent girls who consumed more calcium on average weighed less than those who consumed less calcium. The researchers discovered that an increase in one serving of dairy products or supplements resulted in a significant reduction in weight and body fat.
Researchers have discovered that cholestyramine can reduce the toxic effects of brevetoxin, a neurotoxin produced by harmful algal blooms. This finding has implications for the treatment of ciguatera fish poisoning, a chronic disease affecting millions worldwide.
Researchers at USF and VA hospitals found that rats with intrusive emotional memories can't remember new information. They also exhibited behavioral symptoms similar to those in people with PTSD after being reminded of the traumatic experience.
A University of Pittsburgh study found significant imbalance in bone turnover among post-operative patients undergoing stomach-reduction surgery, resulting in up to an 8% drop in bone density. The researchers suggest that major weight loss requires ongoing calcium and vitamin supplementation for bone health.
Prolactin's role in breast cancer has been redefined with the discovery of its ability to travel directly into cell DNA. This finding suggests a new paradigm for hormone function and offers potential therapies for blocking tumor growth.
Researchers have identified a group of cells in the spinal cord that control ejaculation, which can be manipulated to treat sexual dysfunction. The discovery has implications for paraplegic men and those experiencing ejaculatory problems.
A Penn State study found that larger restaurant portions increase calorie intake, regardless of whether consumers eat all or most of the food. In a related two-day study, participants who received more food consumed more calories, even if they had eaten less the previous day.
Researchers used genetically modified mice to understand cocaine's brain mechanisms, revealing the drug's actions go beyond dopamine and norepinephrine transporters. The findings suggest the serotonin system may also be a target for cocaine treatment.
Dr. Sundquist's research has identified key cellular proteins necessary for HIV release, providing potential new targets for anti-HIV drugs. By altering the structure of these proteins or blocking their interaction with HIV, future treatments may slow or halt infection.
A study found that prenatal exposure to nicotine increases the function and density of GABAa receptors in brain regions controlling breathing, leading to more frequent and prolonged episodes of apnea in newborn rats. This suggests a possible link between maternal smoking during pregnancy and increased risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndro...
Researchers at UNC Chapel Hill found a third transporter, the serotonin system, plays a role in cocaine's effects on the brain. The discovery brings medical science closer to effective therapies for treating cocaine addiction.
A Dutch study found that high-producing dairy cows were not more prone to mastitis than lower-producing counterparts, challenging a common assumption. Researchers infected cows with E. coli and monitored disease progression over three weeks, revealing no significant difference between the two groups.
A new model simulates the influence of shearing and tensional forces on the structure of cheese, improving accuracy over previous models. The research builds upon a particulate gel system, where long strands of casein and whey proteins form a strong network in a liquid environment.
A study found that 20% of all land area in the US is within 127 meters of a road, while 50% is within 382 meters. This highlights the significant ecological impact of roads on forest ecosystems.
Purdue University researchers have created a 'pumpless' liquid-cooling system that removes nearly six times more heat than existing miniature pumpless systems. The system uses microchannels and dielectric liquids to form smaller bubbles, which flow easily through the channels and carry heat away from computer chips.
Scientists at Purdue University have cloned a gene that improves the digestibility of food for livestock and enhances the stress tolerance of plants. The study's findings have potential applications in breeding more productive and resilient crop varieties.
Scientists have found evidence of pathological prion protein in the skeletal muscles of Syrian hamsters infected with scrapie. The discovery expands on previous findings and suggests that further research is needed to understand the presence of prions in muscle tissue.
The study shows that glucose functions as a signal compound affecting plant growth, germination, and flowering. This discovery may lead to new research on human development disorders like diabetes and obesity.
Research by Bauke Milo found that threading strategy helps children with learning difficulties master basic arithmetic operations up to 100. Children who adapted their strategies or used the threading method made fewer mistakes than those using the splitting strategy.
Researchers developed a low-dose statin and fenofibrate combination, which significantly reduced triglycerides, increased HDL, and lowered LDL in patients with combined hyperlipidemia. This treatment addresses multiple lipid abnormalities and may be key to preventing cardiovascular heart disease.
Rental voucher programs may improve neighborhood safety by reducing crime rates and housing quality issues. However, more data is needed to confirm these links, according to a CDC analysis of 12 studies.
The study found that voluntary organisations play a greater role in designing and delivering policies, but face growing tensions between leadership and participation. To deliver effective results, they need to maintain their autonomy and critical edge.
A mathematical model developed by Don Klinkenberg suggests that partial vaccinations can effectively control the spread of swine fever. The model indicates that vaccination reduces the spread of the virus but does not completely prevent it, allowing for epidemic persistence for several months.
A new software package called MiniCog is being developed to evaluate cognitive processes and determine mental readiness for tasks. The program uses a series of nine cognitive tasks to assess attention, working memory, problem-solving ability, and other mental functions.
Researchers have discovered that Solanum sisymbriifolium can eliminate potato cyst nematodes from the soil, which are difficult to control. By cultivating this plant between potato harvests, farmers may be able to reduce the need for pesticides and improve crop yields.
Researchers found that workplace-based physical activity counseling programs significantly improved employees' physical activity levels and fitness. The program, called PACE, was tailored to individual readiness for change and showed greatest benefits for those with less-favorable health profiles.
Graphite exhibits superlubrication when layers rotate relative to each other, reducing resistance and enabling smooth sliding. A new friction force sensor allows researchers to study this phenomenon, which could improve the lubricating qualities of graphite.
Researchers are developing user-centered design guidelines to reduce pesticide exposure among ethnic minority farm workers, improving safety and communication. The project aims to create more effective risk communications, applicable to all farm workers regardless of ethnicity.
A two-year study found that environmental changes in middle schools increased boys' physical activity during school hours, leading to improved body mass index. However, no significant change was observed in girls' physical activity or dietary fat intake.