Researchers have discovered a modifier gene, Scnm1, that affects the severity of neurological diseases in mice and is also present in humans. The study found that when the genetic code for this gene is transcribed, it can produce non-functional protein that alters the physical effects of inherited diseases.
Researchers at TSRI introduce a revolutionary method to add unnatural amino acids to the genetic code of Saccharomyces cerevisiae yeast. This allows for unprecedented control over protein structure and function, enabling new insights into biological processes and potential therapeutic applications.
A group of researchers found a strong correlation between the ages of branching points and morphological variation in four lizard groups. The study challenges the general assumption that each lineage's history is unique.
Researchers at Purdue University have developed a new method to separate proteins in the gas phase, allowing for faster analysis and enabling the study of hundreds of proteins simultaneously. The technique uses a mass spectrometer to collect ions onto different locations on a chip's surface, producing highly pure protein samples.
Researchers discover key mechanism underlying Hirschsprung disease by identifying genes that control neural crest stem cell migration. The findings may lead to potential correction of the disease through transplantation of neural stem cells.
Scientists have discovered two key proteins, XCAP-E and XCAP-D2, that remain apart at a critical time before condensation occurs in frog oocytes. These findings may help study chromosome physiology, particularly the functional aspects of these proteins.
Researchers found that coral reef declines followed the same pattern globally, starting with large predators and herbivores, followed by smaller animals and finally sea grasses. The study provides a yardstick for conservation efforts, offering hope for restoring ecosystems with strong management decisions.
A study found that 47% of faculty IRB members who are also researchers served as consultants to industry within three years. This may raise concerns about conflicts of interest and scientific behavior.
Tufts physicists built a crucial $300,000 optical switchyard for the Main Injector Neutrino Oscillation Search project, helping to understand the deepest structures of matter. The data from this experiment will be fundamental to physicists and astronomers seeking to comprehend the universe's building blocks.
A major study in India found that smoking causes half the tuberculosis deaths among men, with most cases linked to respiratory disease. The research highlights the deadly risks of tobacco use and emphasizes the need for proper treatment and prevention measures.
A study found that individuals with lower educational attainment experienced poorer drinking outcomes following alcohol treatment, including a shorter time to relapse. The researchers suggest that future studies address issues related to matching patients to optimal treatments.
A team of researchers discovered a new microbe, Strain 121, that can survive and thrive in extremely hot temperatures, with growth possible up to 121 degrees Celsius. The discovery opens up possibilities for understanding life on a hot early Earth and the potential for life in extraterrestrial environments.
A recent study reveals a long-term decline of coral reef ecosystems globally, dating back to before 1900, with declines in large animals and architectural species. Overfishing is identified as the primary driver of this decline, with synergistic effects from land-derived pollution in some areas.
Meth abuse has increased in the past decade, with admissions to treatment programs more than doubling in the US from 1992 to 1999. Researchers recommend a minimum of 30 days of residential treatment for meth users to regain essential thinking and decision-making skills.
Researchers discover genetic connection between hair and hair channels, finding that GATA-3 is crucial for hair channel development. Without this protein, mice grew short and stubby coats, highlighting the importance of the hair channel for proper hair growth.
Researchers at Wake Forest University Baptist Medical Center found that Zemplar, a drug mimicking vitamin D hormone, sensitizes cancer cells to radiation therapy without harming normal cells. The combination reduced radiation dose by 2.4 times while maintaining treatment efficacy.
A new grant of US$41 million from the Global Fund will support HIV/AIDS treatment and prevention in South Africa over 2 years. Generic antiretrovirals will be developed and produced locally, offering affordable access to life-saving medications.
A study found that ID Migraine screener is reliable in detecting migraines in undiagnosed patients. The three-question survey showed a high accuracy rate of 93% for diagnosing migraines.
Researchers compared genomic regions in 13 vertebrate species, including humans and zebrafish, to identify conserved non-coding sequences with biological roles. The study provides insights into the understanding of our own genome and highlights the importance of sequencing multiple species' genomes.
Researchers discovered that glacial erosion is controlled by the relationships of the ground beneath the glacier, the rubble pile, and the glacier itself. Glaciers achieve a steady state existence when the angle between their toe and sediment pile becomes too steep, causing streams to stop flowing and erosion to cease.
Researchers sequenced the genomes of three Prochlorococcus and one Synechococcus strains, revealing insights into their metabolic machinery and ecological niches. The discoveries may aid studies on global climate change and sustainable energy production.
A UCI biomedical engineer has received a $1.8 million grant to create viable lung tissue similar to that found in bronchial tubes, which will be injured to simulate asthma injuries. The goal is to better understand what causes scarring in the lungs of people with asthma and develop more effective treatments.
Researchers at Queen's University discovered that brain patterns of people watching and performing tasks are similar, suggesting a common neural process. This finding may help assess individuals with impaired movement control and understanding of others' actions.
A University of Washington study found that using the Internet is not a reliable way for most people to find jobs. Despite widespread adoption of internet-based job search tools, researchers found that those who used the internet were actually less likely to land a job than those who didn't.
A recent study published in PLOS Biology tracked the genomic activity of Plasmodium falciparum in human red blood cells, revealing a surprisingly simple pattern of gene expression. This finding could lead to the identification of the biological function of unknown genes and provide new insights into the life cycle of malaria parasites.
Researchers at Texas A&M University found that babies use a clear hierarchy of features to individuate objects, with shape and size being most important until 7.5 months. By 11.5 months, color becomes relevant in this process, revealing insights into how babies perceive their world.
A field study found that spiders ambushing pollinating insects decrease seed production in flowers. Ecologist Kenwyn Suttle suggests these interactions are common and overlooked by biologists. The research supports the idea that predation on pollinators can impact plant reproduction.
Researchers at the University of Central Florida have discovered that engineered nanoparticles can extend the lifespan of brain cells by three- to four-fold, allowing them to live up to 123 days. The study also suggests that these nanoparticles may preserve function and potentially treat age-related disorders such as Alzheimer's disease.
The study finds that the decrease in atmospheric bromine is driven by a large decline in methyl bromide, which has more than offset increases from halons. Global industrial production of methyl bromide has declined due to restrictions on its use, contributing to a faster-than-expected recovery of stratospheric ozone.
Researchers created a technique using validation sets to verify epidemiological data, enhancing vaccine effectiveness studies. This approach helps address reporting bias and improves the reliability of many vaccine research outcomes.
In contrast to many other introduced species, most marine invertebrates increase in size after invasion. This size increase may have significant implications for the impacts of these species on native ecosystems. The study's findings highlight the need for further research into the effects of invasive species on non-native regions.
Researchers pinpointed nerve cells in the nucleus accumbens shell that respond to environmental stimuli associated with prior drug use. This finding may aid in developing targeted treatments for relapse prevention.
Researchers from Scripps Institution of Oceanography have sequenced the genomes of Synechococcus and Prochlorococcus, tiny organisms that account for up to two-thirds of carbon dioxide fixation in the oceans. The discoveries shed light on how these organisms process carbon and adapt to specific habitats, offering insights into global c...
A double-blind, placebo-controlled trial found that creatine supplementation improves working memory and intelligence in both vegetarians and omnivores. The study suggests a significant boost to brain function similar to effects shown previously in muscle and heart.
A team of 71 researchers compared the human genome to 12 vertebrates, including chimpanzees, mice, and rats, to identify conserved genetic regions. These regions are likely to control important functions such as gene expression and can provide clues about how each species evolved.
Researchers at Michigan State University discover that glaciers sculpt and erode landscapes through a phenomenon called glaciohydraulic supercooling, which affects the rate of erosion. This new understanding allows for better comprehension of how glaciers subdue mountains.
A long-term follow-up study of childhood ALL survivors found that those who did not receive brain radiation had comparable survival rates, employment, and marital rates to the general population. However, those who received brain radiation had a slight increase in death rate due to second cancer and higher unemployment rates.
The American College of Preventive Medicine recommends prioritizing research on improving vaccine delivery and funding for immunization programs. All children and adolescents without contraindications should receive immunizations against 11 diseases, according to ACPM's recommendations.
Scientists have sequenced the genomes of four types of cyanobacteria, including Prochlorococcus and Synechococcus, which play a critical role in regulating atmospheric carbon dioxide. The completed genome sequences provide insights into how these single-celled organisms convert solar energy into living biomass.
Researchers found endostatin treatment reduced invasive head and neck cancer cells by half and their migratory capabilities by one-quarter. The study suggests an implanted drug delivery system could provide sustained therapeutic drug levels directly to tumors.
Researchers found that musicians played at a tempo closer to fast music when listened to before playing, while speakers read faster or slower after hearing a recording's speaking rate. Both groups unconsciously coordinate timing to find a mutually agreeable tempo.
NIST researchers are investigating detection devices to detect dirty bombs and radiation threats, ensuring accuracy in various conditions. The new standards will improve the calibration of detectors, reducing errors in measuring high, medium, or low energy radiation sources.
Researchers from Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health developed the Diamond Graph method to correct long-standing errors of 3-D bar graphs. The new method represents all variables equally on a 2-D graph using expanding polygons within a diamond-shaped grid.
A recent study found that nearly 10% of female Army recruits tested positive for chlamydia, with rates increasing over time, highlighting the need for regular screenings and treatments to prevent long-term health consequences like pelvic inflammatory disease and infertility.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine discovered that altering leptin's signaling pathway can minimize or even reverse left ventricular hypertrophy, a condition causing the heart to expand and stiffen. Leptin infusions led to weight loss and improved heart function in mice with obesity, while caloric restriction had no effect.
Research suggests that schizophrenia impairs habitual prospective memory, leading to high rates of non-adherence to medication. The study found that people with schizophrenia are more likely to forget to turn over a counter during an obstacle course test.
A new study by the University of Pennsylvania School found that guggulipid, a traditional herbal remedy, has no impact on lowering cholesterol levels. The research suggests that dietary supplements need rigorous testing for safety and efficacy, with further studies planned to investigate its effects on triglycerides and inflammation.
Researchers found that administering hydroxyurea to patients with severe forms of beta-thalassemia boosted hemoglobin levels and enabled five patients to stop undergoing transfusions. The treatment also improved quality of life for the children, who reported feeling better and more active.
NIST has developed a way to accurately measure retroreflectivity, resolving measurement problems that hindered defining minimum standards. The new facility will provide calibration services early in 2004.
The NIST-developed device detects single photons with negligible dark counts using a tungsten film coupled to fiber optic communication line. It achieves a detection rate of 20,000 photons per second with an efficiency of 20%, aiming for over 80% improvement.
A study found that 41% of web sites selling ephedra products failed to disclose potential adverse effects or contraindications, while 53% did not reveal the dosage of ephedra alkaloids. The authors recommend that makers of dietary supplements containing ephedra should voluntarily disclose pertinent information about the supplements.
Researchers suggest celestial processes dominate climate change, with cosmic rays influencing low-level cloud formation and blocking sun warming. Human-caused greenhouse gas emissions are secondary to natural forces.
A recent study found that providing Medicare coverage to previously uninsured adults increases access to life-saving preventive tests like cancer and cholesterol screenings. The gap in testing rates narrows significantly after eligibility.
A team led by UC Riverside geneticist Dr. Close will deliver advanced information and material resources for barley genomics, aiming to make the barley genome accessible to everyone. The four-year project focuses on accessing expressed genes in Triticeae genomes using reliable methods.
Researchers found that hypnosis did not provide better pain relief compared to non-hypnotic treatments. The amount of pain relief experienced was largely due to participants' expectations from the therapy, according to the study's lead author.
Researchers tracked Miss Pearl's epic journey and welcomed her back to her nesting beach in Nicaragua after three years, gaining crucial insights into hawksbill sea turtle behavior and habitat protection. The satellite transmitter on Miss Pearl's back provided vital information on her location and diving patterns.
Researchers found that infant falls can produce significant rotational forces that cause widespread and serious brain injury, including internal bleeding and nerve cell damage. This challenges the assumption that children respond similarly to head trauma as adults.
Researchers at Ohio State University found that endostatin can stop Kaposi's sarcoma cells from growing new blood vessels and migrating through the body. The study suggests a controlled release of endostatin could be an effective treatment option for patients with KS.
A study revealed 253 Caribbean marine species are endemic, with many having tiny ranges making them susceptible to extinction. Destructive fishing practices and development threaten these micro-endemic species.
Researchers debated changes to cervical cancer screening guidelines as a vaccine for human papillomavirus (HPV) showed promising results. The study found that vaccination combined with biennial screening was cost-effective and reduced cancer incidence and mortality.