A research team at Rockefeller University has discovered a novel protein, AFP, that regulates early growth arrest in young plants. This development provides insights into how plants naturally tolerate drought and stress, with potential applications in creating drought-resistant crops.
A UCLA study found substantial evidence that surgeon experience is associated with lower complication rates in radical prostatectomy. Low-volume surgeons had twice the in-hospital complication rate of high-volume surgeons, and their patients were hospitalized one day longer on average.
A study by the American Dietetic Association found that most marketplace portions exceed standard sizes by as much as eight times. Researchers also discovered that portion sizes of many foods and beverages have increased two to five times since their introduction.
A team of scientists has discovered that chaotic wave patterns in the heart's electrical pulses can be controlled and potentially terminated using a weak periodic modulation. This discovery could lead to new methods for treating cardiac fibrillation, a life-threatening condition.
A recent review of studies on dark chocolate found that its flavan-3-ols and oleic acid may help reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. Flavonoids, also present in other plant foods, aid in warding off heart disease, while oleic acid from olive oil promotes heart health.
The report highlights the need for a multi-faceted approach to manage freshwater resources, including empowering local groups and increasing communication among disciplines. It also recommends protecting minimally impaired ecosystems and creating awareness of healthy ecosystems' importance to everyday living.
The URI Office of Marine Programs has been awarded a Sloan Grant to support the Census of Marine Life, a global research effort to study marine biodiversity. The program will create an international education platform, provide networking resources for scientists and communicate the importance of ocean conservation.
Researchers performed partial splenectomy on 25 children with congenital forms of anemia caused by abnormal red blood cells. The procedure showed promise in relieving symptoms and improving quality of life, but does not address the cause of these disorders.
A new study found that men with moderate anger expression had nearly half the risk of nonfatal heart attacks and a significant reduction in stroke risk compared to those with low anger expression. Moderate anger may be protective against cardiovascular disease over a limited period, according to researchers.
Researchers have found that dietary grain affects colonic hydration, leading to significant changes in gut function. The study suggests that switching from hay only to hay and grain can decrease water content in the colon.
The study reveals that the SIX3 protein secures anterior neural cells by blocking out a posteriorizing signal, crucial for forebrain formation. In mouse models and zebrafish, forced expression of Six3 rescues forebrain development, demonstrating its critical role in vertebrate head development.
Researchers at Weizmann Institute find that sperm are attracted to fertilization site by temperature difference. A temperature-driven mechanism, known as thermotaxis, guides the sperm through the fallopian tube and prepares them for penetration of the egg.
The irrE gene plays a crucial role in D. radiodurans' ability to withstand extreme radiation levels, and its regulation may be linked to DNA repair mechanisms. Understanding the gene's function could lead to breakthroughs in human cancer prevention and nuclear waste cleanup.
The Six3 gene plays a vital role in brain development by halting Wnt1 activity, preventing abnormal forebrain extension. In mutant mice and zebrafish, genetic material from the mouse Six3 gene restores normal forebrain development.
Researchers found liquid sewage sludge to be just as effective as traditional synthetic fertilizers in improving crop yields and nutrient content. The study also showed low levels of heavy metals in crops, groundwater, and soil, making it a promising environmentally safe alternative for waste disposal.
Dr. Rossant and colleagues find that Flk1 and Tal1 proteins steer embryonic cells towards endothelial, hematopoietic, or smooth muscle fates. The study provides further evidence for a common hemangioblast progenitor cell, which can differentiate into the three cell types.