Astronomers have detected a lensed quasar more than twice as wide as any previously reported, offering insights into dark matter and its distribution. The discovery provides evidence for the presence of massive galaxy clusters, which can be used to study dark matter.
Researchers at the Salk Institute discovered a complex chain of events leading to Notch activation, which is crucial for proper left-right asymmetry. The study used mathematical modeling to pinpoint factors regulating Notch activity, revealing extracellular calcium as a key trigger.
Astronomers have found evidence of rapid galaxy formation in the early universe, including ultra-massive black holes and mature galaxies that formed at an unprecedented rate. This discovery poses a significant challenge to the cold dark matter theory, which predicts galaxies formed through a bottom-up process.
Researchers identified four asthma patient subsets defined by age of onset and presence/absence of eosinophils, suggesting different biological processes and mechanisms. Early-onset asthma was associated with allergies, while late-onset asthma showed rapid lung function loss.
Researchers found a link between a family of antioxidant-related genes and the allergic response to diesel exhaust particles. The study suggests that people lacking these genes may have difficulty fighting air pollution's harmful effects, with potential treatments being explored.
Researchers found that 3% of women report chronic pain and 1.7% currently have pain, affecting millions across the US. The study also revealed that African-American women are as likely to experience vulvodynia as Caucasian women.
Scientists are working to create an animal that lacks the genomic architecture to code for normal prions, which cause Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy (BSE) and Creutzfeldt-Jacob Disease. The goal is to produce a cow that is genetically incapable of producing prions, which could potentially contain the risks of this disease.
Researchers found that unwanted memories can be suppressed using brain areas similar to those used during physical action control. This process reduces hippocampal activity, leading to forgetfulness. The study provides a novel neurobiological model for motivated forgetting, which may demystify how repression occurs.
Studies identify specific tissue sites where abnormal cells lead to insulin resistance and Metabolic Syndrome. PPARgamma in fat tissue affects adipose cell function, while defective muscle tissue causes profound insulin resistance.
The University of Chicago study found that urban areas are organized into partnering markets, influencing how people meet and form relationships. Societal institutions, neighborhoods, and racial groups play significant roles in shaping these markets.
Researchers report success with new anti-IL-5 therapy in treating severe forms of hypereosinophilic syndrome, reducing eosinophil counts and improving symptoms. The treatment has been well-tolerated and improved the quality of life for all four patients, including one who regained ability to eat solid foods after years of inability.
The NIH is funding a project to develop a user-friendly website for senior citizens to access healthcare services. The project, led by Athman Bouguettaya and Denis Gracanin, aims to incorporate the latest privacy protection techniques and graphical user interfaces to make healthcare more accessible.
Researchers at Mayo Clinic implant human blood stem cells into fetal pigs, revealing the presence of hybrid cells with both human and pig DNA. These findings may help explain how viruses jump from animals to humans, paving the way for discovery about disease origins like AIDS.
Researchers discovered a gene, CREST, crucial for normal brain connections formed in response to sensory experiences. The study revealed that mice lacking the CREST gene develop abnormally in response to calcium ions and experience learning disorders.
A new DNA registry at UNC will study the interaction between genes, environment, and disease. The registry aims to identify groups of individuals with genetic polymorphisms that may be linked to environmental risk factors.
A new study by William Checkley and colleagues found that water and sanitation are key determinants of infant health in developing countries. The research, conducted on 230 Peruvian infants, revealed that inadequate water and sanitation can lead to higher rates of diarrheal episodes and stunted growth.
Researchers at the University of Melbourne have discovered a sub-atomic particle called X(3872) that defies explanation using current theories. This 'mystery meson' has unique mass and decay properties that challenge our understanding of quarks and the color force.
Researchers have discovered an RNA lariat structure that may explain the long-standing mechanism of template shift in retroviral replication. The finding provides new insights into the process of reverse transcription and has potential implications for understanding HIV-1 replication and developing targeted therapies.
A large trial found that interferon gamma-1b did not slow the progression of pulmonary fibrosis, but may improve survival in early-stage patients. The treatment's failure to prevent lung scarring was a major concern.
Scientists create cell chips using temperature-driven changes in a material, enabling the creation of custom-designed devices for experiments and medical applications. The technology has the potential to revolutionize tissue engineering and medical diagnostics by providing a low-cost, efficient way to create complex devices.
Researchers at the University of Wisconsin-Madison have identified a key gene that regulates flowering in biennials, such as carrots and cabbage. The discovery could lead to new methods for manipulating crop productivity and understanding how organisms control cell fates during development.
A new synthesis method for sodium cobalt oxyhydrate, a type of superconductor containing water, has been developed by Brookhaven chemist Sangmoon Park. This method produces large quantities of the material without requiring hazardous substances, making it easier to further analyze its properties.
Researchers at Rockefeller University have developed a feeder-free system for maintaining pluripotency in human embryonic stem cells, overcoming the need for mouse feeder cells. The system uses a synthetic compound derived from a marine mollusk to activate the Wnt signaling pathway, keeping stem cells in an active, undifferentiated state.
A review article by Daniel B. Di Giulio and Paul B. Eckburg reports the first confirmed cases of monkeypox in the US, likely introduced through the pet trade and rodent importation. The disease has been mild in the US, with no fatalities, but poses a risk of endemicity in US rodent populations.
University of Central Florida researchers are testing a new way to communicate with soldiers through vibrations, aiming to reduce distractions and improve safety. The study, funded by the U.S. Department of Defense, explores whether coded vibrations can be an effective alternative to traditional communication methods.
A study predicts that climate change will put 15-37% of species in biodiversity-rich regions at risk of extinction by 2050. The study used computer models to simulate the impact of changing temperatures on species distributions, and found that well over a million species could be threatened with extinction.
Researchers at Northwestern University have made a breakthrough in treating Alzheimer's disease by targeting the gene that causes memory loss. The study found that inhibiting an enzyme called BACE1 can prevent memory deficits and brain cell functional abnormalities in laboratory models of Alzheimer's disease.
A study by Oregon Research Institute found that cobblestone mat walking improves pain relief and mental well-being in older adults. Participants who walked on the cobblestone mat experienced enhanced physical activity and reduced stress levels compared to those in an attention control group.
Researchers found that nanotubes with tiny bumps cause less scar tissue and stimulate neurons to grow more fingerlike extensions, needed for brain activity regeneration. The findings suggest using a mixture of plastics and nanotubes could decrease scar tissue formation around electrodes.
The University of California - San Diego Medical Center has been awarded a contract by the NIH to create a national tuberculosis educational curriculum. The goal is to raise awareness and improve education on TB, which can be controlled with effective medications. The consortium includes faculty members from 12 medical schools, six nur...
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine have identified two new alleles and four existing ones among the Lakota Sioux tribe, increasing the likelihood of finding compatible organ donors within their population. This study could facilitate transplantation in Native American populations with high rates of diabetes and end-stage renal disease.
Researchers found high concentrations of BDEs in peregrine falcon eggs, suggesting the deca formulation may not be harmless. The study's findings add to concerns about the safety of BDEs and their potential impact on wildlife.
The honey bee genome has been assembled through a team-led effort by the NIH/National Human Genome Research Institute. With approximately 300 million DNA base pairs, it is one-tenth the size of the human genome. Researchers aim to compare the genome with other organisms to understand genes and regulatory regions within DNA.
A recent study found that a new, experimental injectable sustained-release depot formulation of buprenorphine is safe and effective in treating narcotic addiction. The treatment provides long-term benefits, reducing opioid withdrawal symptoms and sensitivity to opioids.
Researchers have discovered a link between the ratio of two energy-compounds and increased blood flow in brain cells. By modulating this ratio, scientists can better understand how blood circulation is activated in the brain, potentially leading to new treatments for diseases like Alzheimer's and diabetes.
A recent study found a significant association between the breakdown of the vitreous gel and the development of nuclear cataracts. The researchers discovered that high levels of vitreous liquefaction were strongly correlated with cataract formation, even after accounting for age.
Researchers at UCSD found that blood pressure measurements vary significantly depending on the arm position used. The study measured blood pressure in 100 emergency room patients and found systolic and diastolic pressures to be lower with arms perpendicular to the body than parallel to it, affecting hypertension classifications.
Children with hyperlexia display exceptional reading skills, often exceeding their age, yet struggle with social interactions. FMRI studies reveal distinct brain activity patterns, highlighting the neural mechanisms underlying this rare condition.
Researchers create new microfluidic chip assembly method using glass microscope slides, tweezers, and a flexible polymer, cutting design and manufacture time from weeks to hours. The new approach enables scientists to test ideas quickly and conduct research in typical laboratories.
Researchers at UCSD have identified a protein molecule targeted by anthrax toxin that prevents cytokine production, allowing bacteria to evade the immune system. By understanding this mechanism, scientists may develop new drugs to protect against anthrax infections.
Scientists at UC Berkeley and Stanford developed a working, integrated silicon circuit that incorporates carbon nanotubes. The breakthrough allows for the creation of high-performance memory chips capable of storing orders of magnitude more data than current silicon chips.
A meta-analysis of six studies found autologous bone marrow transplantation to be more effective in disease-free survival but similar overall survival compared to chemotherapy. Imatinib also shows promise as a treatment for advanced neuroblastoma, while tamoxifen use is linked to increased risk of rare uterine cancers.
Physician response to hormone therapy and blood pressure medication changes is influenced by public awareness and media coverage. The studies found a significant drop in hormone therapy prescriptions following the announcement of risks associated with long-term use.
A national survey found that most US adults believe routine cancer screening is 'almost always a good idea'. However, respondents also expressed concerns about the potential risks and harms of screening, including false positives and overtreatment. The study highlights the need for balanced information about cancer screening to inform ...
A large US multistate study found that end-of-life care is often woefully inadequate, with many patients receiving insufficient pain medication, emotional support, and respectful treatment. The study recommends expanding access to hospice care, growing palliative medicine training, and improving nursing home end-of-life care.
Girls are nearly twice as likely to think about suicide if they have only a few friends and feel isolated from their peers. Boys, on the other hand, do not show a significant relationship between friendships and suicidal thoughts.
A national survey found that most American adults support routine cancer screening, but many have misconceptions about its benefits. The study suggests a need to balance messages and reduce overtesting and overtreatment.
Researchers found that complex computerized control systems overload pilots, leading to incorrect decisions during emergencies. The team recommends designing cockpit systems to anticipate problems and provide error recovery mechanisms, improving safety.
Scientists have demonstrated a type of magnetic behavior predicted over 50 years ago using a classical physics approach, bridging the gap between quantum and classical approaches. The study involves molecular magnets with special internal structures, which can produce new phenomena like Néel excitation.
Researchers discovered a synergistic effect when combining glucosamine with ibuprofen, resulting in enhanced pain relief. The study suggests that adding glucosamine to existing pain medications could lead to improved efficacy without increasing side effects.
Recent evidence from randomized trials on hormone therapy and hypertension treatment led to a decline in hormone therapy prescriptions following publication of trial results. Alpha-blocker prescriptions also declined after the Antihypertensive and Lipid-Lowering Treatment to Prevent Heart Attack Trial (ALLHAT) early termination.
Researchers found no association between BRCA1/2 mutations and colorectal cancer risk in two studies. No increased risk was observed among Ashkenazi Jewish mutation carriers or those with a family history of breast cancer.
A study of 116,544 women found that active smoking was associated with a 30% higher risk of invasive breast cancer, especially among young smokers and those who smoked heavily. However, no link was found between passive smoking and breast cancer risk in nonsmokers.
A study of over 88,000 women found no significant difference in pancreatic cancer risk between aspirin users and non-users. However, extended regular aspirin use was associated with a 58% increased risk, while higher doses were linked to an 86% increased risk.
A new method to monitor sea surface temperatures and height in the North Pacific may help measure wind patterns and ocean dynamics, potentially improving fisheries management. Vegetation growth during warm months slows the increase in summer temperatures, but a temperature rise of 3-5 degrees Celsius could harm vegetation growth and ac...
A study found that family members reported high rates of unmet needs for symptom management, emotional support, and physician communication. Patients receiving home hospice services had better quality care outcomes compared to those in institutional settings.
The study found that vinculin changes its shape in response to protein binding, enabling it to regulate cell movement and adhesion. This versatile protein plays a critical role in both healthy development and disease progression, including cancer cell spread.
Researchers at the University of Chicago have developed a new method to store hydrogen fuel, using icy materials that require less stringent temperature and pressure conditions. The discovery could help explain how hydrogen is incorporated in planetary bodies and potentially power cars.
A recent study found no association between BRCA mutations and an increased risk of colorectal cancer. Researchers tested blood samples from 1,422 patients with colorectal cancer and 1,566 control subjects for mutations in BRCA1 or BRCA2 genes. The results suggest that BRCA mutation carriers do not need to worry about an elevated risk ...
The new 'camera pill' technology has shown significant potential for diagnosing small bowel disease, particularly in conjunction with computed tomography. It can detect more abnormalities than standard imaging techniques and provide detailed images of the entire small intestine.