A team of scientists has successfully achieved the first live births of killer whales through artificial insemination. The study, led by Dr. Todd R. Robeck, used genome resource banking and artificial insemination to store sperm from male orcas for later use. This breakthrough may help maintain genetic diversity in captive marine mammals.
A pair of researchers from the University of Wisconsin-Madison developed mathematical models examining changes in a community's tolerance to environmental conditions like global warming or acid rain. They found that as individual species disappear, two forces act upon the community, making it more or less tolerant to the condition.
Researchers use zebrafish to study human heart valve formation and cancer risk, identifying novel actin molecules and ribosomal protein genes that predispose fish to malignant tumors. The findings suggest a causal relationship between early heart function and its final structure.
Researchers discovered a genetic mutation that interferes with heart muscle contraction, leading to defective heart valve formation. This study suggests that temporary glitches in early heartbeat may cause valve defects, potentially leading to new treatments for congenital heart defects.
A study by Northwestern University and the Framingham Heart Study found that parents with early-onset cardiovascular disease double the risk of heart attack or stroke in their children. Children with intermediate levels of risk factors are most affected, making parental cardiovascular disease a strong predictor of risk.
The Dartmouth College fMRI Data Center has archived over 70 complete studies with data from 1,000 individuals. Researchers can access the repository at no charge, fulfilling over 1,200 requests. The collection contributes to understanding human cognition.
A study found that childhood conduct problems predict depression, violence, and social phobia in young adults. Early conduct problems were a strong predictor of later violence, with children three and a half times more likely to engage in violent behavior.
A recent study found that requiring hospital gowns in intensive care units (ICUs) can save hospitals over $400,000 in annual costs associated with the spread of drug-resistant bacteria. The analysis, conducted over two-and-a-half years, also showed that gowns can provide a net benefit in terms of infection control.
The IU School of Medicine aims to integrate competency-based curriculum with the 'hidden curriculum' to improve practice and professionalism. The school's unique approach involves changing its culture to mirror the social context of care, teaching students about relationships and customer experience.
Researchers found that humpback whale flippers with tubercles exhibit nearly 8% better lift properties and 32% lower drag than sleek flipper designs. The study's findings have implications for improving airplane wing aerodynamics and reducing fuel consumption during flight.
Scientists have identified a key gene, Pax7, that regulates the transformation of adult stem cells into muscle cells in injured tissue. The study showed that introducing Pax7 to these stem cells can enable them to differentiate into functional muscle cells and aid in tissue repair.
Scripps researchers successfully engineered E. coli to produce myoglobin proteins with 22 amino acids, including unnatural O-methyl-L-tyrosine and L-homoglutamine. This breakthrough demonstrates the genetic code can be expanded beyond 20 amino acids, opening doors for novel protein designs.
A compound found in orange and tangerine peels has shown promise as a natural alternative for lowering LDL cholesterol without side effects. The compound, called polymethoxylated flavones (PMFs), was found to lower cholesterol levels by 32-40% in animal studies.
Scientists used two water dating methods, radiocarbon and helium-4, to determine the age of water in wells in Baldwin County, Alabama. The results showed that the ages ranged from 50 to 7,500 years, suggesting that saltwater intrusion could become a bigger issue in the future with global climate change.
University of Florida engineers have successfully installed a tiny on-chip antenna, enabling radio communication across distances of up to 16 feet. The achievement marks a significant step towards building an 'ultrasmall radio chip' for various applications, including border security and bridge monitoring.
Researchers developed two treatments to minimize nerve damage and facilitate nerve recovery, preserving ability to have an erection after radical prostatectomy. Muscle-derived cells and glial cell-derived neurotrophic factors improved erectile function in animal models with cavernous nerve injury.
A new study by Harvard Medical School researchers found that taking small, frequent doses of caffeine is the most effective way to stay awake. This dosing regimen builds up caffeine levels in sync with growing sleep pressure, counteracting its effects and improving cognitive performance.
Research finds that controlling parenting styles hinder struggling children's academic progress, while autonomy support improves performance and school grades. Parents who adopt an autonomy-supportive approach allow children to explore independently and generate problem-solving strategies.
The discovery of Suuwassea emilieae, a smaller relative of Diplodocus and Apatosaurus, provides significant insights into the fauna of the Morrison Formation. The new species features an anomalous second hole in its skull, which has puzzled paleontologists for years.
A new study published in Nature Neuroscience reveals that a specific group of neurons in the brain, known as the ARC pacemaker, play a crucial role in regulating hunger and satiety signals. This finely balanced mechanism can go wrong if one small error occurs, leading to difficulties in weight management through diet and exercise alone.
A University of Pittsburgh study shows Botox injections significantly reduce irritative symptoms and improve quality of life index by 62.3% and 56.5% respectively. Patients experienced increased flow rate and decreased residual urine without significant side effects.
Researchers found that smokers are interested in getting help to quit, with over two-thirds accepting cessation treatment offers. The study also showed that participants were more likely to follow through with treatment and stay abstinent, especially when offered face-to-face counseling.
A new study by UNC researchers reveals a high prevalence of chlamydia in US young adults, with rates significantly higher among black men and women. The study found that the infection was present in all racial groups but was most common in the South.
Researchers found that platelets can promote diabetic complications and contribute to inflammation in heart disease. They discovered a common Type II diabetes drug can dampen platelet inflammatory activity, potentially leading to new treatments for vascular diseases.
A multicentre, randomized, double-blind and placebo-controlled study is underway to evaluate the efficacy and safety of Tectin in moderate to severe inadequately controlled cancer-related pain. The trial has shown promising results, with almost three-quarters of patients experiencing a clinically meaningful analgesic response.
Researchers found that couples who have accurate pictures of their relationship, even if it's not ideal, tend to experience lower declines in marital satisfaction. In contrast, those with high expectations but poor relationship skills show steep declines in satisfaction over time. Lowering expectations may benefit couples with good rel...
Harvard Medical School establishes three endowed chairs in sleep medicine, marking an historic moment for the school and the field. The chairs will enable advanced scientific research and development of new treatments for sleep disorders.
A new vaccine has been shown to significantly reduce racial disparities in childhood pneumonia and meningitis incidence. By 2002, the vaccine had led to a decline of invasive pneumococcal disease cases among blacks by 46%, compared to a 36% decrease among whites.
Researchers at the Wildlife Conservation Society discovered a large population of jaguars in Bolivia's Kaa-Iya Park, estimated to be one of the largest in any protected area. The park, which covers over 34,000 square kilometers, is also home to a diverse range of other wildlife, including endangered species such as the Chacoan guanaco.
Penn State researchers aim to develop a small, effective pediatric heart assist system for infants, children, and teens. The goal is to create a device that can provide support for at least six months until the heart recovers or a donor heart is found.
Researchers propose a novel regimen of frequent low-dose caffeine to help shift workers and others stay awake. The strategy works by building up caffeine levels in sync with the homeostatic system's push for sleep.
A study published in JAMA found that a specific genetic variation in the COX-2 gene is associated with a reduced risk of myocardial infarction and ischemic stroke. The -765GC polymorphism was more prevalent in controls than in patients, resulting in a 52% lower relative risk of MI and a 67% lower relative risk of ischemic stroke.
Research finds that people trust health professionals and are cautious about online health information, yet appreciate recommendations from healthcare providers. E-health resources enhance control and reassurance for parents and children managing chronic diseases.
A study found that the overall prevalence of chlamydial infection was 4.19% among young adults aged 18-26, with higher rates among women, black Americans, and those in the south. Gonorrhea prevalence was also significant, with co-infection rates being low.
Researchers at Purdue University have developed a method to identify genes in tree species, paving the way for domesticated trees. This breakthrough aims to reduce the need for logging wilderness areas by producing ideal characteristics such as insect resistance or improved wood properties.
Researchers at Saint Louis University are testing a new, attenuated vaccine against smallpox, which could be administered to individuals with compromised immune systems. The study aims to explore the safety and efficacy of this investigational drug in a broader population.
The American Geophysical Union (AGU) is now accepting nominations for the 2005 Journalism Awards. The awards recognize work that enhances public understanding of the sciences, including the study of the Earth and its environments. Nominations are due by November 15, 2004, and winners will be announced on May 19, 2005.
Researchers have developed a novel method to create well-defined nanostructured carbons using polyacrylonitrile (PAN) as a precursor. The technique provides significant advantages over existing methods and has potential applications in energy storage/conversion devices and display technologies.
A systematic review found that diagnostic test accuracy is underestimated when results are verified after a delay, with an average underestimation of 74%.
New studies release at the American Urological Association (AUA) show Enablex significantly reducing overactive bladder symptoms, including incontinence episodes and nocturia. Enablex improved efficacy parameters associated with OAB without CNS or CV safety concerns.
The Mectizan Donation Program has demonstrated significant success in combating river blindness through a public-private partnership between Merck and the World Health Organization. The program has resulted in nearly 50 million treatments approved since its inception, with minimal costs to participating organizations.
A study found that urban American Indian women are at higher risk for contracting HIV due to elevated rates of trauma, including physical and sexual abuse. The research suggests that these women may be exposed to HIV infection despite reports of low risk, highlighting the need for assessments of trauma and prevention measures.
A recent study has identified 14 resistant vegetable varieties that can help pumpkin growers wait out the deadly P. capsici pathogen. Rotating these crops may provide a temporary solution until the pathogen is safe to plant pumpkins again, which could mitigate yield losses of up to 100 percent.
Researchers found that female penguins have significantly more mollusk shells in their stomachs than males before laying eggs, providing a slow-calcium release. The thick eggshells are crucial for protecting eggs from breakage and predation, particularly in large colonies.
Researchers found that adult cells descended from renin-producing cells can re-express the renin gene in response to stress, revealing a 'memory' of their original lineage. This ability allows these cells to rapidly respond to changes in blood pressure and sodium levels.
The study identified older age, female sex, presence of symptoms before the rash appeared, severe acute pain, and extent of rash as significant risk factors for PHN. These risk factors reflect different mechanisms contributing to the development of PHN.
The oldest available data on the Missouri River shows that water flow has become more variable over time due to extensive damming. The river is also narrower at St. Charles, Missouri, with a reduced width of 500 yards compared to its original 720 yards in 1804.
The American Academy of Neurology has developed a guideline evaluating the use of transcranial doppler ultrasound (TCD) in patients with known or suspected cerebral vascular disease. TCD provides valuable information in screening children with sickle cell disease for stroke risk and detecting vasospasms after subarachnoid hemorrhage.
A study by Brian Wansink found that adults offered six colored flavors of jellybeans ate 69% more than when the colors were each placed in separate bowls. The perception of variety stimulates how much people consume. Consumers can curb overeating by avoiding multiple bowls of the same food and arranging foods into organized patterns.
Researchers found that quality of life for men treated for prostate cancer continues to evolve long-term, with some experiencing improvements and others worsening. Sexual function remains a significant concern for survivors, with reported lower quality of life compared to non-cancerous individuals.
Researchers found that HDAC inhibitors promote adult muscle growth and regeneration by stimulating follistatin levels in skeletal muscle tissues. Follistatin is proposed as a potential drug target to regenerate healthy new muscle tissues in animal models of muscular dystrophies.
Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh have identified a potential biomarker, RCCA-5, which may help detect renal cell carcinoma in its early stages. Early detection is crucial for effective treatment, and RCCA-5 shows promise as an effective marker for urologic cancers.
A computer scientist at Washington University in St. Louis has developed a novel technique to extract more DNA from a single sequence reaction, reducing both cost and time of the sequencing process. The approach uses software that sorts through genetic information and finds predicted sequences, with 59% of predicted genes verified as e...
Researchers found that biotech corn carrying a gene for insect protection can pollinate non-Bt corn plants up to 100 feet away, posing a risk of contaminating refuge areas. The discovery suggests measures are needed to reduce pollen spread from Bt corn to corn fields requiring refuge zones.
A new sedation algorithm has significantly reduced unplanned extubations in pediatric ICU patients without increasing hospital stays. The Penn State Children's Hospital Sedation Algorithm sets target behavior goals for ventilated children and provides corresponding medication recommendations.
Researchers uncover the stimulatory and inhibitory functions of tissue factor in blood vessel generation, shedding light on diabetic retinopathy and potential new treatments. Transgenic mice studies reveal altered structures in pathologically altered vessels, suggesting a possible target for angiogenesis inhibition.
New research finds that Labour has devolved policy-making to Scottish and Welsh forums, giving greater power to trades unions and producer interests. The Liberal Democrats have a more structured approach, introducing national policies in the devolved administrations.
A study by Mount Sinai School of Medicine found that brachytherapy effectively treats prostate cancer while preserving quality of life. The research team followed 255 patients with prostate cancer treated with I-125 and reported minimal urinary symptoms, preserved potency, and reduced bleeding.
A study found that prolonged sun exposure, especially in teens and 30s, increases the risk of age-related maculopathy. Wearing hats and sunglasses also reduces this risk by half.
Researchers tested rTMS on four patients with incomplete spinal cord injuries, finding a 37.5% drop in intracortical inhibition and improvements in motor and sensory function. This treatment may facilitate functional recovery and has the potential to help people with partial spinal cord injuries recover some movement and feeling.