Researchers at UC Riverside have isolated microorganisms that can degrade up to 90% of the toxic pesticide endosulfan in 15 days. The strains, Fusarium ventricosum and Pandoraea sp., have potential applications for detoxifying contaminated soils and water bodies.
A study reveals that EXO1 is essential for both male and female germ cell meiosis, highlighting its role in fertility. Mice lacking Exo1 function developed tumors and experienced severely depleted sperm levels, suggesting a link between EXO1 and cancer.
A recent study suggests that newer mobile phones with improved handhold technology pose less risk to medical equipment. The researchers argue that a complete ban on mobile phone use in hospitals is no longer justified, and that patients' personal devices should be allowed in certain areas.
Researchers discovered six grains of stardust outside our solar system, including crystalline grains that contradict established theories. The study found that stardust is surprisingly common in interplanetary dust particles, suggesting it comes from primitive bodies.
Researchers found that mutations causing lysosomal storage diseases are no more common than other inherited diseases in the Ashkenazi Jewish population, indicating a lack of selective advantage. The study suggests that these disease-causing mutations were present in the ancestors of Ashkenazi Jews and were passed down through generations.
The Lancet Commentary highlights the need for a radical transformation to reverse deeply embedded ethnic biases in leading medical journals. The journals prioritize research from the rich world, neglecting the health priorities of poor countries, and this bias affects the range of public debate.
Researchers have pinpointed a genetic defect in the phospholamban protein as the cause of inherited dilated cardiomyopathy. The discovery may lead to targeted treatment for this disorder, which affects 4.7 million Americans and costs $17.8 billion annually.
The number of UK deaths from vCJD has been declining, with a stabilization in the rate of mortality. The disease's mortality rate is no longer increasing exponentially, but further confirmation is needed to determine if the epidemic is in permanent decline.
Researchers at Scripps Research Institute have found that the human body produces ozone as part of a mechanism to protect itself from bacteria and fungi. The discovery suggests a new role for neutrophils and antibodies in the immune system, potentially leading to new treatments for inflammatory diseases.
A Rutgers researcher is using brain signal analysis to better understand attention deficit disorder (ADD) and schizophrenia. By monitoring brain activity in real-time, the study aims to identify common patterns of interaction that can help define brain profiles for individuals with these conditions.
ApoB is a more robust indicator of cardiac events than cholesterol levels, according to MUHC cardiologists. Measuring apoB can help identify patients at risk of heart attacks even if their cholesterol levels are well-controlled.
Researchers found that antisense RNA regulates core timing genes in Neurospora's circadian clock, which drives the 24-hour light-dark cycle. The discovery provides an unexpected link between antisense RNA and circadian timing.
The article highlights the need for experience and evaluation of syndromic surveillance to detect bioterrorism. Emergency physicians are urged to be vigilant about reporting outbreaks to public health authorities until effective systems are in place.
Recent studies suggest apolipoprotein B is a superior marker for predicting cardiovascular disease risk compared to total cholesterol or LDL cholesterol. The ratio of apolipoprotein B to apolipoprotein A-1 is also more effective in assessing cardiovascular risk than the traditional LDL/HDL ratio.
Researchers have rediscovered a World War II era antidote for Lewisite, a chemical warfare agent that causes immediate pain and blistering. The treatment, BAL, can remove heavy metals such as arsenic, copper, and lead from the human body.
A team of researchers has identified a genetic mutation in phospholamban that disrupts calcium regulation in the heart, leading to dilated cardiomyopathy and heart failure. The discovery provides new insights into the mechanisms underlying heart failure and holds promise for future treatments.
Researchers found a mutant protein, phospholamban (PLN), that disrupts calcium signaling in heart muscle cells, leading to contractile dysfunction and heart failure. The study provides insight into the fundamental signals that tip a diseased heart into failure.
A new computerized survey has been developed to identify cancer survivors who are in greatest need of psychological counseling. The study found three key risk factors associated with psychological distress: dissatisfaction with physical appearance, poor physical health, and treatment with cranial radiation.
Scientists have developed a powerful new technique called phylogenetic shadowing, enabling them to study biological traits unique to the primate family. This allows for better understanding of humans by comparing with apes and monkeys.
A global study identifies cost-effective strategies to reduce the burden of cardiovascular disease, prioritizing non-personal interventions such as salt reduction and health education. Combination treatments with blood pressure and cholesterol-lowering agents are also shown to be effective in reducing disease impact worldwide.
A new study highlights the cost-effectiveness of reducing sodium in processed foods to limit cardiovascular disease, while also recommending a combination of treatments for high-risk individuals. The research found that targeting blood pressure and cholesterol levels could prevent over 21 million DALYs per year worldwide.
Physicists Wolfgang Knoll and Shigemasa Suga have been recognized for their contributions to German-Japanese cooperation. The Eugen and Ilse Seibold Prize, awarded by the Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft, honors their collaborative research in exotic nano materials.
Advances in handheld technology have reduced the risk of interference with medical devices, while a decade after its introduction, there is still no concrete evidence of harm to patients. As a result, hospital trusts may reconsider their mobile phone policies.