Researchers have found evidence of a chimp-sized hominid walking upright on two legs in Kenya's Tugen Hills, dating back to 6 million years ago. The fossil shows a thinner neck connecting the ball to the shaft, indicating an early transition to bipedalism.
Researchers discovered that controlling temperature and daylight regulated bulb growth, allowing for flowering and seed production in garlic plants. This breakthrough opens possibilities for genetic diversity, pest resistance, and improved yields.
A five-year head-to-head trial of three common anti-epileptic drugs will enroll 439 children aged two to 13. The study aims to determine the best initial medicine for childhood absence epilepsy, which affects 10-15% of all epilepsy cases in children.
Researchers found that Neanderthals experienced periods of starvation and nutritional stress, but to a lesser extent than modern Inuit who used more advanced technology. Tiny grooves in tooth enamel served as markers of these episodes.
Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania have successfully spun carbon nanotubes into usable fibers using a technique developed by Rice's Richard E. Smalley. The resulting fibers exhibit good mechanical and electrical properties, but modest thermal conductivity.
Researchers isolated stem cells from the bulge of hair follicles in hairless mice, finding two distinct populations that can produce hair follicles. These stem cells also showed 'stemness' genes, indicating their ability to self-renew and differentiate into various cell types.
USC researchers detail process of beak formation in journal Science, identifying BMP4 as a major mediator of beak shape. The study sheds light on how different bird species develop uniquely shaped beaks reflecting their ecological niches.
The Lancet's editorial advocates for animal research to improve human health and develop new medicines, despite potential controversy. The journal emphasizes the need for scientific justification and responsible animal care in experiments.
Researchers find that simple vesicles with genetic material grow and compete for resources, challenging current theory on cell evolution. The study suggests that the presence of RNA is key to driving cellular growth and competition.
Health experts emphasize the need for stronger health systems to achieve improved health outcomes, but agree that a more manageable approach is needed. Disease-specific interventions can deliver quicker results, yet may lead to duplication and disruption, while system-wide approaches build benefits over time, but are less manageable.
Yale researchers found strong clinical evidence to support treating systolic blood pressure of at least 160 mm Hg in older adults. Treatment decisions should prioritize patient preferences and tolerance of therapy due to limited evidence on benefits.
Researchers have discovered a small, Smac-like molecule that can encourage the death of cancer cells without harming normal cells. The compound mimics the natural protein Smac, which normally regulates cell death in healthy cells.
Researchers at Rice University have successfully produced macroscopic single-walled carbon nanotube fibers with high strength and conductivity. The discovery has the potential to revolutionize industries such as aerospace and energy by creating ultra-strong, smart materials.
Researchers analyzed tiny meteorite grains to determine the formation of aluminum oxide in AGB stars. The study found that both crystalline and amorphous forms are produced, clarifying observations and refining condensation modeling.
Researchers observe supersolid behavior in solid helium-4, where a small fraction of atoms exhibit zero friction and nonclassical rotational inertia. The discovery challenges the accepted picture of crystalline solid 4-He and forces theorists to revise their understanding of quantum mechanics.
The research project aims to identify tick genes that spread serious illnesses, such as Lyme disease. By analyzing the genome data, scientists hope to develop vaccines to block transmission of microbes that cause tick-borne illnesses.
Researchers developed a novel peptide compound that triggers apoptosis in cancer cells, overcoming key obstacles associated with short peptides. The hydrocarbon-stapled alpha-helix peptide, SAHB, is more resistant to degradation and can be taken up by cells, making it a promising therapeutic agent.
Pulmonary fibrosis occurs when normal lung tissue is replaced with thick scar tissue, impairing oxygen flow. Researchers have discovered that TGF-beta causes apoptosis in epithelial cells before fibrosis develops, paving the way for potential treatments by blocking cell death.
A rapid review of the Atkins diet suggests that it can lead to significant weight loss in the short-term, with individuals on the low-carbohydrate diet losing more weight than those on an energy-restricted low-fat diet. However, long-term effects and potential health risks remain uncertain, highlighting the need for further research.
Researchers found that mice engineered to lose a single copy of the Rb gene in their prostate develop a precancerous condition analogous to human prostate cancer. This suggests that loss of Rb could be the initial spark for prostate cancer development.
A new study reveals that leptin can restore reproductive function in women with extreme low body fat levels, such as those with infertility, eating disorders, or osteoporosis. Leptin therapy showed dramatic results in raising reproductive hormones and improving menstrual cycles.
Researchers found that zoledronic acid can halt the progression of cervical cancer in mice by inhibiting angiogenesis and matrix metalloprotease-9 expression. Additionally, a study on skin cancer revealed that Stat3 is required for initiation and promotion stages, suggesting it as a potential target for cancer therapy
A new study using computer models found that human activities are the main cause of caribou decline in northern Alberta. The research suggests that if current development rates continue, woodland caribou will be eliminated from the area in 37 years.
A study of 13,271 Salmonella infection cases in Sweden found that 87% were contracted abroad, with most coming from Spain, Greece, and Turkey. The number of diagnoses for a rare type of Salmonella Enteritidis increased dramatically among visitors to Greece in 2001.
Researchers have developed a new procedure using sedative midazolam and gases that has been successfully used to treat children with extreme dental problems, avoiding the risks associated with traditional general anaesthesia. The technique offers a viable alternative for specialist practices to reduce hospital waiting lists and free beds.
The study found that HAART reduced mortality in HIV-infected injection drug users with high CD4 cell counts, similar to those without HIV. Initiating or switching to HAART at higher CD4 counts than current recommendations may improve outcomes for asymptomatic patients.
A US study found significantly higher levels of brominated flame retardants (PBDEs) in food samples than previous market studies. The most contaminated items were fish, meat, and dairy products, highlighting the need for further research into the exposure routes of these toxic chemicals.
A US study found a significant link between exposure to traffic pollutants and an increased risk of bronchitis or physician-diagnosed asthma in children. In contrast, directly observed therapy for tuberculosis patients showed a significantly higher cure rate compared to self-administered therapy.
Burger's work on number theory and mathematics education has earned him numerous awards, including the MAA Deborah and Franklin Tepper Haimo Award. His research focuses on Diophantine approximation and geometry of numbers, and he is also dedicated to making math accessible to everyone.
Researchers identified human VPS37 proteins as crucial in HIV-1 budding and protein sorting. The discovery could lead to the development of drugs targeting these proteins to prevent infection spread. Human VPS28 was also found to bind to TSG101, essential for HIV-1 replication.
A study surveyed 900 physicians from the Society of Gynecologic Oncologists, revealing that a physician's comfort level discussing death and their medical ethics training significantly affect end-of-life choices for terminally ill patients. Key aspects of effective conversations include 'straight talk' and compassion.
A study of over 600 older women with receptor-positive breast tumors found that tamoxifen alone was as effective as radiation therapy in preventing recurrence. The research suggests that radiation may not be necessary for these patients, improving their quality of life and reducing side effects.
Researchers at Berkeley Lab have created low-loss and highly flexible optical waveguides using semiconductor nanoribbons, which can be integrated into photonic circuits. The nanoribbon waveguides were synthesized from tin oxide and demonstrated the ability to propagate and modulate light through subwavelength optical cavities.
A recent study reveals that desertification is driven by a limited number of recurrent pathways, including regionally distinct combinations of factors and feedbacks. The analysis challenges traditional single-factor explanations and highlights the impact of public and individual decisions on desertification.
Researchers successfully delivered a phosphorescent green protein from jellyfish to the eyes of laboratory cats, producing a permanent effect. The study demonstrates a potential gene therapy approach to treat glaucoma, a chronic disease affecting 70 million people worldwide.
Research in mice shows that dietary depletion of essential fatty acid DHA accelerates Alzheimer's disease, but supplementation protects against damage to dendrites and cognitive decline. The study supports increased DHA intake as a potential neuroprotective strategy for AD.
African American men face significant barriers in transitioning from prison to society, including limited job opportunities and affordable housing. This can lead to poor health outcomes due to lack of access to healthcare services and insurance.
Researchers at Temple University's Sbarro Institute developed a new blood test that uses CDK9/CYCLIN T1 expression to accurately diagnose lymphoma cancer types and stages. The study, published in the Journal of Pathology, found that analyzing these molecules in a blood sample can pinpoint the presence of lymphoma with high accuracy.
A genetic disorder, Williams syndrome, has been studied using brain imaging techniques to understand its impact on genes and cognition. The research found that the disorder affects the dorsal pathway of the visual cortex, leading to difficulties in visuospatial construction.
Researchers used MDCT to create 3D images and reconstruct Harwa's face, revealing he was 45 years old at death. The technique allows for high-resolution reconstructions without damaging the mummy.
Scientists have developed a new method to quickly identify the precise landing sites of gene regulators in yeast, which are essential for understanding how genes and their regulators 'talk' to each other. This breakthrough could lead to a better understanding of diseases such as diabetes and cancer.
A recent study published in Radiation Research has established a dose-response relationship between radiation dose from Chernobyl and thyroid cancer. Researchers found that the incidence of thyroid cancer was 45 times greater among those who received the highest radiation dose compared to those in the lowest-dose group.
A UCLA study found that a diet rich in DHA, an omega-3 fatty acid, dramatically reduces the impact of the Alzheimer's gene and prevents synaptic brain damage. Consuming more DHA can be easily controlled through food choices such as fish, eggs, or supplements.
Researchers have characterised the structure and function of Dr Adhesins, a family of proteins responsible for chronic diarrhoeal and urinary tract infections. The discovery provides new insights into how these proteins cause multiple diseases by targeting a common receptor on host cell membranes.
A team of researchers led by Guy A. Caldwell found that worms with a mutated LIS1 gene experience convulsions similar to those in humans with lissencephaly, a rare birth defect. The study reveals the mutated protein's impact on neuronal trafficking and neurotransmitter release, providing insights into the complexities of epilepsy.
Researchers at Joslin Diabetes Center have developed a new imaging technology using magnetic resonance imaging to detect early signs of type 1 diabetes. The technology tracks miniscule magnetic nanoparticles leaking from the blood vessels of the pancreas, allowing for non-invasive monitoring of the disease's progression.
The study found that nearly 60% of patients achieved 20/20 or better visual acuity after three years, while reports of symptoms decreased. The ICL was more effective than LASIK for patients with higher degrees of myopia.
This September 2004 issue of Ophthalmology journal features groundbreaking research on predictive factors for glaucomatous visual field progression, primary open-angle glaucoma in Japan, and hypothyroidism's impact on open-angle glaucoma. The studies also explore the mechanism of ocular hypotensive action of bimatoprost and optic nerve...
Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center conducted the first comprehensive study on liposuction's physiological impact, analyzing its effects on the heart and lungs, as well as electrolyte changes. The study found that levels of lidocaine and epinephrine must be closely monitored to ensure patient safety.
A Purdue University study found that an antioxidant, glutathione, plays a critical role in protecting plants from toxic metals. Glutathione helps to minimize oxidative stress, allowing certain plants to thrive on metal-enriched soils.
A survey of over 200 respondents found that more than half struggled to keep track of paper documents, losing them at least once a week, compared to electronic information. The study highlights the need for better tools to help people organize their information effectively, regardless of its form or location.
Researchers found that zoledronic acid inhibits the growth of cervical cancer by targeting macrophages expressing matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) and angiogenesis. This treatment approach offers new hope for cervical cancer patients.
A team of geologists reports that the Moho boundary is absent beneath California's San Joaquin Valley, due to a mantle drip. The study provides insight into mountain-building processes and explains how the Sierra Nevada formed.
Researchers are studying how damaged hearts heal differently in men and women, with a focus on estrogen's role. The study aims to understand the underlying mechanisms of cardiac remodeling and its impact on heart failure.
Researchers found that Stat3 is required for skin cancer initiation and maintains cellular growth through expansion of initiated cells. Inhibiting Stat3 function impairs tumor growth, suggesting its potential as a target for cancer therapy.
Virtual colonoscopy has shown promise as a colorectal cancer screening option, with limitations in detecting flat polyps and varying results in clinical trials. Further research is needed to determine the optimal size for removing small growths and standardizing test performance.
Renal artery intervention procedures have seen a significant increase in cardiologist-performed cases, with the southeast region experiencing the largest surge. The study suggests regional disparities in treatment, highlighting potential over- or under-treatment of patients.
Quantitative sonography and DXA have differing diagnoses for osteoporosis in patients, with limited correlation between the two methods. The study suggests that quantitative sonography may not be suitable to replace DXA measurements for diagnosing osteoporosis due to low correlation.
A long-term study at Ohio State University found that counseling improved immune function, reduced stress, and boosted healthier eating habits in breast cancer patients. The study's findings support the value of psychological intervention in cancer treatment and suggest potential benefits for other types of cancers.
Physicist Rose suggests that inscribing information on a physical medium can be more energy-efficient than sending messages through radio waves. He proposes this method as a solution for communicating with extraterrestrial civilizations, potentially leading to millions of messages being discovered on Earth or other celestial bodies.