Purdue University researchers have developed a new field called 'ionomics,' which studies how genes regulate all the ions in a cell. This research holds promise for creating mineral-efficient plants that need little fertilizer, crops with better nutritional value, and plants that can remove contamination from the soil.
Babies born to African American teen mothers are at higher risk of low birth weight, preterm delivery, and infant mortality compared to older mothers. Study identifies key risk factors, including inadequate weight gain during pregnancy and inadequate prenatal care.
Dalton's study reveals farmers value plant height, days to maturity, and processing characteristics over yield increase. He used a hedonic model to derive economic values of crop traits, aiding breeders in creating technology.
In Honduras, abandonment of therapy and fatal infections lead to high mortality rates among children with ALL, but can be corrected with interventions such as transportation funding and education programs. The study found that improving survival rates requires a two-pronged approach, also addressing infection and overcrowding issues.
Researchers used a gene gun to target dendritic cells, the 'security cameras' of the immune system, and found that their number is 100 times higher than previously thought. This discovery could lead to more efficient vaccine development using abundant, long-lived dendritic cells.
A new study found that exposing pregnant rats to MDMA resulted in significant increases in dopamine neuron fibers in the frontal cortex, leading to potential behavioral changes. The study also revealed modest decreases in dopamine metabolism and reductions in serotonin levels, suggesting sex differences in vulnerability to MDMA's prena...
The University of California - San Diego has received a $1.8 million grant from the NSF to develop an experimental grid infrastructure, known as FWGrid. The project will enable innovative next-generation systems and applications with high-speed wireless, wired, computing, and data capabilities.
Researchers at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute are developing new interconnect technologies that enable three-dimensional circuit integration, promising improved performance and function. The technology uses damascene processing to bond wafers together face-to-face, reducing global travel distance and enabling faster signal transmission.
Adult stem cells have been shown to regenerate damaged lung tissue, offering a promising new treatment for devastating lung diseases. The study's findings suggest that circulating stem cells can repair damage in organ tissue, which could have a huge impact on the treatment of conditions like emphysema and cystic fibrosis.
Scientists at the Pittsburgh Development Center are working towards cloning nonhuman primates, overcoming fundamental molecular obstacles first reported in 2003. The goal is to generate at least 10 cloned nonhuman primates and produce identical offspring through embryo splitting for studying human diseases.
A Cornell University researcher found that awareness and knowledge of golden rice among Filipino farming community leaders is almost nonexistent. Vitamin A deficiency affects over 100 million children worldwide, leading to preventable blindness and high mortality rates.
UGA researchers aim to expand understanding of 'metalloaromaticity' and explore new classes of aromatics with diverse backgrounds in organic, inorganic, and computational chemistry. The project has significant industrial applications, including superconductivity.
Researchers found that fetal exposure to Ecstasy causes changes in brain chemistry and behavior in rats. The study, which mimicked the first trimester of human pregnancy, revealed a 502% increase in dopamine neuron fibers in the frontal cortex of Ecstasy-exposed rats.
A recent poll found that New Yorkers are divided on the use of biotechnology in food and agriculture, with 39% opposed to its use. The study also revealed demographic differences among those who support or oppose biotechnology, with opponents being more likely to be female, liberal, and younger.
The American Academy of Ophthalmology honors Dr. Della Rocca, Dr. Lieberman, and Dr. Helveston for their dedication to providing medical care and training to underserved populations worldwide. Their efforts have improved the lives of thousands through ophthalmic missions and educational programs.
The UC Discovery Grants fund eight projects led by Jacobs School of Engineering faculty, focusing on high-bandwidth wireless spaces, MIMO wireless communication systems, low-power mixed-signal circuits, and more. The goal is to enhance wireless networks and develop new technologies.
A study of 1841 living liver donors in Japan found no perioperative mortality, but serious complications were reported. The study highlights the importance of prioritizing donor safety in organ transplantation to minimize morbidity and mortality.
A review of sociological research on family relationships highlights two dominant accounts: one emphasizing family breakdown and moral decline, while the other focuses on transformation and democratization. Despite this, a third perspective argues that there has been little substantial change in personal ties and obligations.
Researchers at the NIH/NIAID have discovered that streptococcal infections trigger altered gene expression in neutrophil white blood cells, exposing potential targets for new treatments. The findings provide insight into how these common bacteria evade immune defenses.
A recent study found that older women who live in neighborhoods with good walkability are up to 100% more physically active. Women who live near parks, trails, or shops have higher levels of activity than those whose homes are not within walking distance.
The UNC study found that residents with access to trails, sidewalks, and well-lit streets were more likely to meet the recommended physical activity levels. Notably, blacks, American Indians, and those with lower education and income levels reported less favorable neighborhood environments and reduced access to exercise spaces.
A new clinical study found that chromium picolinate supplementation increased insulin sensitivity by 8.9% in individuals with type 2 diabetes, compared to a 3.6% decrease in the placebo group. The study suggests that chromium picolinate may improve insulin action through activation of Akt phosphorylation.
Researchers have directly observed the brain mechanisms involved in predictive associations, a key process in associative learning. The study found that changes in neural activity in the amygdala support changes in the orbitofrontal cortex, highlighting the importance of this brain system.
A study published in Pharmacology, Biochemistry and Behaviour found that sage oil improved word recall test performance in healthy young adults. Sage is being investigated as a potential treatment for Alzheimer's Disease due to its ability to inhibit the enzyme acetylcholinesterase.
A new study is investigating the role of genetics in exercise response, seeking to identify genes that influence body composition and fitness. The project aims to develop personalized exercise programs tailored to individual needs, which could lead to improved weight loss and reduced obesity-related risks.
Health insurance scams have been on the rise as premiums increase at double-digit rates, leaving nearly 100,000 people with unpaid medical debts and without coverage. The Commonwealth Fund report recommends strengthening criminal penalties, expanding access to affordable coverage, and improving consumer education.
Researchers at Dartmouth College and GlycoFi have developed a technology to produce human-like glycoprotein structures in yeast, offering improved quality and quantity of pharmaceutical proteins. This breakthrough has the potential to increase patient access to life-saving drug therapies by overcoming production capacity bottlenecks.
A controlled study after the Dutch café fire found a 75% increase in clinical overall mental-health symptom scores among Volendam adolescents compared to other students. These scores were significantly higher for girls than boys, indicating that post-disaster healthcare should focus on psychosocial consequences.
The Exten Fitness System uses motorized chairs to provide a safe all-body workout for those unfit or overweight, helping counter the UK's 'couch potato' culture. The system offers 23 exercises in 30 minutes, promoting increased muscle tone and mobility, improved circulation and coordination.
A new study published in JAMA found that comprehensive communications training significantly impacted medical student performance in areas such as devising treatment plans, developing doctor-patient relationships, and closing visits. The study involved three medical schools and compared students who received specialized communication t...
Researchers analyzed health data from over 200,000 people, finding that compact counties were associated with increased leisure time walking and lower weights. The study suggests that urban design can impact physical activity levels and overall health.
A recent study by Tibi et al. provides new insights into the mechanism of deep earthquakes, with implications for earthquake prediction. The researchers demonstrated remote triggering of one deep earthquake by another, shedding light on how these powerful events begin.
A team of scientists at GlycoFi, Inc. and Dartmouth College reports the successful production of a human protein with complex glycosylation in genetically modified yeast. The achievement enables the generation of glycoprotein libraries for elucidating specific structure-function relationships and identifying efficacious molecules.
Two new studies found that elderly lung cancer patients benefit equally from aggressive chemotherapy and radiation treatment, contradicting common assumptions. Fit elderly patients should be fully briefed on treatment options, including potential risks and benefits. The studies suggest presenting the full range of treatment options to ...
Researchers found that wrist bands with acupressure or stimulation applied to an acupuncture point on the wrist reduced nausea in breast cancer patients by 15% compared to no band. Patients who expected the bands to ease their nausea experienced even greater relief, reporting a 25% decrease in nausea severity.
Researchers at The Wistar Institute have provided new insights into the emerging theory of gene regulation, showing how two enzymes work together to activate specific genes by loosening chromatin. This study supports the 'histone code' theory, suggesting complex modifications to histones control gene activity.
Researchers at UC Davis have developed an advanced PET scanner, MicroPET II, that can resolve a volume of one cubic millimeter, significantly improving detection of small cancer cells in experimental animals. The non-invasive imaging technology allows researchers to gain more information and use fewer animals in studies.
Dr. Ginis receives two-year grant to improve hurricane forecasting model and enhance storm prediction capabilities. The model, developed in collaboration with NOAA scientists, aims to better understand and predict extreme winds and heavy rain causing $5 billion in annual damages.
A recent study found that the TGFBR1*6A gene is associated with a 26% increase in cancer risk, particularly for breast, ovarian, and colon cancers. The study's findings suggest that genetic testing and counseling can help identify individuals at high risk and provide targeted prevention strategies.
A Leishmania mutant parasite has been developed to study persistent infections without triggering disease. The research may provide a breakthrough in understanding how the parasite interacts with the immune system, potentially leading to the development of a vaccine.
Researchers at Arizona State University have developed a method to measure the electrical resistance of individual molecules, overcoming previous limitations. This breakthrough could lead to the creation of faster and more efficient electronic devices.
Researchers found that a 6-month mark after starting antiretroviral therapy (HAART) can be used to predict disease progression in HIV/AIDS patients. Patients with higher CD4 cell counts and lower viral loads have lower risks of AIDS or death at this stage, suggesting that initial response to treatment is crucial for determining prognosis.
A recent study reveals that pedestrians and cyclists in the US are more likely to be killed by cars compared to their European counterparts. The researchers attribute this to a range of public policies that make walking and cycling inconvenient, unpleasant, and unsafe.
The Canadian Institutes of Health Research and National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute have launched three research programs to address heart attack resuscitation, cellular imaging, and thrombotic disorders. The programs aim to improve cardiovascular disease treatment outcomes, particularly in developing countries.
The Lancet calls for increased investment in nanomedicine research, citing its potential to revolutionize disease diagnosis and treatment. The field's benefits include novel means of imaging and delivery systems for drugs and gene therapies.
A team of scientists has resolved the long-standing mystery of hydrogen balance in the Earth's atmosphere by analyzing stratospheric air. The research reveals that the major sink for hydrogen is not as previously thought, but rather a complex interplay between atmospheric reactions and methane oxidation.
A new study suggests that massive methane releases could have led to the extinction of up to 95% of marine species and 70% of land species. The researcher estimates that 10,000 gigatons of dissolved methane could have been released, causing catastrophic conflagrations and flooding.
Researchers developed a new composite score combining CT imaging and pulmonary function testing to assess treatment effects in young cystic fibrosis patients. A new test was also developed to predict increased mortality risk in idiopathic interstitial pneumonia patients with significant decline in pulmonary function.
Research reveals that human activity has reduced natural habitats, making it difficult for species to adapt to climate change. Mobile species like birds and butterflies are more likely to survive, while sessile species like reptiles and amphibians are at high risk of extinction.
A new study reveals that patients who received neoadjuvant chemotherapy lived an average of 31 months longer than those treated with surgery alone. The combination therapy showed a 66% greater chance of surviving bladder cancer.
A study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that everolimus significantly reduced the incidence of acute rejection and cardiac allograft vasculopathy in heart transplant patients. The medication also lowered rates of cytomegalovirus infection, a major risk factor for these complications.
The new cryo-electron microscope allows for unprecedented high-resolution imaging of individual molecules and cellular structures, enabling scientists to study complex diseases such as diabetes, obesity, and Alzheimer's disease
New technique uses electron beams and ultraviolet light to remove chlorine ions from polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), reducing toxicity and enhancing biodegradation prospects. The method shows promise for decontaminating sediments contaminated with PCBs, a potential risk factor for cancer.
The Mayo Clinic team has successfully transplanted kidneys into 29 high-risk patients, achieving an 80% success rate. By filtering out antibodies from the patient's blood, they can create a less hostile environment for the donor kidney to adapt. This approach may change the fate of thousands of patients waiting for a transplant.
Researchers at UCSB have identified a cell survival gene, ICD-1, that prevents normal cells from committing suicide. The discovery may lead to new treatments for degenerative diseases such as ALS, stroke, heart disease, autoimmune disorders, and cancer.
Researchers found that zinc sulphide nanoparticles change their crystal structure when wet, becoming more ordered. This effect could help identify extraterrestrial rocks and has implications for sensing technology.
Researchers at the Max Planck Institute have developed a novel technique for tailoring silicon nanocrystals on 4-inch wafers, enabling the mass production of these tiny crystals. By controlling the size and position of the nanocrystals, the team aims to improve the efficiency of light-emitting devices such as LEDs.
Researchers at Tufts University have identified the key aspects of silk processing that enable spiders and silkworms to create strong fibers. This breakthrough could lead to the development of new high-strength materials, biomaterials for tissue engineering, and environmentally friendly processes.
Research by Jayanth Banavar, Igor Volkov, and Amos Maritan provides a mathematically stronger framework for Hubbell's Neutral Theory of Biodiversity, explaining patterns of relative species abundance and biogeography. The study rebuts criticisms and sheds light on the long-standing problem in island biogeography.
Researchers at NIST used a special facility to study 'shake gels,' materials that firm up and relax in response to external stimuli. They discovered the polymer's oxygen atoms, not hydrogen atoms, attach to clay, and water binds to surfaces in a perpendicular arrangement.