Researchers have identified a specific microRNA - miR 196 - playing a protective role in hindlimb development, but not forelimb development, suggesting a fail-safe mechanism to regulate gene expression. This finding may be useful in understanding birth defects and has implications for the regulation of protein expression in limbs.
African-American women who joined a cancer screening trial had better understanding of cancer and early detection, motivated by loved one's experience with cancer. The study suggests targeted strategies to improve recruitment, including providing health benefits and informing physicians about clinical trials.
A recent study found that nitric oxide, normally considered protective against atherosclerosis, can be converted into peroxynitrite, causing cell dysfunction and death. This reaction activates the ER stress response pathway, leading to devastating cytotoxic effects and accelerating atherosclerosis.
A recent study published by the American Gastroenterological Association found that consuming more than two cups of coffee or tea per day can reduce the risk of chronic liver disease by half. Researchers discovered that caffeine played a significant role in this protective effect, suggesting potential applications for liver health.
A study published in the BMC Neurology Journal found that patients with chronic fatigue syndrome have a set of proteins in their spinal cord fluid not detected in healthy individuals. These proteins could serve as a 'biosignature' for the disease and may help diagnose CFS in the future.
Research in three countries found that uncontrolled use of artemisinin led to resistance in Plasmodium falciparum malaria. Mutations in the gene SERCA-type Pftpase6 were associated with this loss of sensitivity. The study highlights the need for increased vigilance and rapid deployment of drug combinations.
A pilot study published in BMC Neurology identified 16 proteins in the cerebrospinal fluid of CFS patients that are not found in healthy individuals, potentially providing a biosignature for diagnosis. The study concludes that chronic fatigue syndrome may be a legitimate neurological disease.
Researchers at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital discovered that histone deacetylase enzymes cooperate with CBP/p300 histone acetylases to trigger expression of genes responding to hypoxia. The study suggests that developing new therapies targeting both mechanisms may enhance treatment efficacy for solid tumors.
A recent study published in The Lancet suggests that high-dose chemotherapy improves both event-free and overall survival for women with advanced breast cancer. This finding contradicts previous studies, highlighting the need for further investigation into this treatment strategy.
A new laser-based method for measuring millimeter distances has been developed and demonstrated by a physicist at the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). The technique measures frequency rather than wavelength, achieving an uncertainty of 10 picometers.
A new algorithm, 'particle picking by segmentation,' enables fast and reliable selection of images for 'crystallization in silico' from millions of candidates. By focusing on background noise, the approach improves yields over existing methods.
Researchers are developing new methods for immunization, including transdermal and nasal delivery, which could prevent needle-caused infections and reduce economic burdens. Interdisciplinary efforts are underway to make needle-free immunizations a common practice.
Scientists uncover evidence of massive soil erosion as primary cause of end-Permian extinction, which wiped out over two-thirds of reptile and amphibian families. The research reveals a unique set of molecules found in rocks from Italy provided crucial insights into the event.
The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) has designed preliminary test procedures to measure the performance of the Integrated Vehicle-Based Safety System (IVBSS). The IVBSS aims to detect and warn drivers of potential crashes at different speeds and in various driving situations. NIST will observe contractor tests and...
The study highlights the limitations of using surrogate animals to predict endangered species decline, arguing that target species are more relevant. The authors advocate directly examining the target species before resorting to substitute animals.
Researchers found that resveratrol can prevent amyloid beta from killing neurons by blocking a key protein called NF-kB in microglia. This discovery singles out resveratrol as a promising therapeutic intervention for Alzheimer's disease.
Research published in The Lancet suggests that light to moderate alcohol consumption may have little to no health benefits, outweighing the potential harms. Professor Rod Jackson's findings emphasize that there is no 'safe' window for drinking, and individuals should avoid consuming alcohol altogether.
A study by Cornell University researchers found that child poverty rates have decreased in recent years, particularly among children whose mothers work full-time. However, significant racial and ethnic disparities persist, with black and Hispanic children facing higher poverty rates than their white counterparts.
French fries prepared with non-hydrogenated cottonseed oil have significantly lower trans-fatty acids and saturated fat compared to those made with partially hydrogenated canola or soybean oil. Fruits and vegetables are ranked highest for nutrient density, providing key nutrients at a reasonable cost.
Researchers have developed a new cell line to study prostate cancer and its effects on the body. Anti-nerve growth factor therapy shows promise in reducing skeletal pain associated with prostate cancer, outperforming morphine.
Researchers have found a potential association between high blood levels of PCBs and furans with an increased risk of developing non-Hodgkin lymphoma. The study analyzed blood samples from 100 healthy volunteers and 100 non-Hodgkin lymphoma patients, revealing a link between three specific molecular forms of PCBs and cancer development.
A long-term study found that individuals with moderate to severe sleep-disordered breathing have a significantly increased odds of suffering a stroke over the next four years. The study analyzed data from 1,475 participants and revealed that 21 people suffered their first-ever stroke at an average age of 53.
A nine-month study found that consuming biofortified, iron-rich rice improved the iron status of women, increasing it by 20% compared to traditional rice. Non-anemic women with low body iron reserves and those who consumed more rice showed the greatest improvements.
The Institute for OneWorld Health has received a multimillion-dollar grant from the Gates Foundation to combat VL, a fatal disease transmitted by sand flies. The grant will support a long-term control program, including Phase 4 demonstration studies and clinical trials in children.
Researchers discovered that GroEL1 oversees production of fatty acids necessary for biofilm growth, which are absent in bacteria lacking the chaperone protein. Understanding this mechanism could lead to new ways to develop effective drugs to fight TB and other mycobacterial infections.
A study published in Gastroenterology found that nearly 2% of the general population has Barrett's esophagus, a condition linked to increased risk of esophageal cancer. The study highlights the need for screening and awareness among patients and physicians.
Research highlights rapidly declining fish numbers in inland waters globally, with total catch quadrupling since 1950 and biodiversity at risk. Inland water fishing pressure shifts from species to species, leading to ecosystem collapse if left unmanaged.
NIST researchers discovered that metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) can store up to 10% of their weight in hydrogen at low temperatures. The nano-cage structure offers a promising approach for storing and releasing hydrogen, which could potentially replace fossil fuels in future automobiles.
The US-China Standards Portal aims to facilitate US companies' entry into the Chinese market by providing translations of key national standards and information on standards systems. The portal's enhancements will support the development of timetables and actions to make the US more competitive in international standards.
A study found that fat surrounding internal thoracic arteries produces a factor that can relax the artery, alleviating contraction during CABG surgery. Retaining this fat tissue may help improve blood flow, providing an alternative to drugs that cause cellular damage.
A study using fMRI technology found that men and women utilize distinct brain areas when performing similar tasks. This discovery has significant potential for improving psychiatric treatments, particularly for conditions such as major depression.
A pilot study finds that a jewelry-making program significantly reduces HIV risk and increases self-esteem among Baltimore women involved in prostitution. The program also generates income through public sales, with participants earning over $7,000.
A study found significant relationships between household endotoxin levels and diagnosed asthma, recent symptoms, and wheezing. The strongest effects were observed in adults, with lower levels of endotoxins in bedding compared to kitchen floor dust.
Researchers have invented a new class of materials called metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) that can store vast amounts of carbon dioxide. One MOF, dubbed MOF-177, sops up 140% of its weight in CO2 at room temperature and reasonable pressure.
Scientists have discovered energetic plumes extending 300,000 light years into a massive galaxy cluster. The plumes are caused by explosive venting from a supermassive black hole and demonstrate the far-reaching influence of a black hole on intergalactic distances.
A study by St. Jude Children's Research Hospital suggests that mutations in the p53 protein may link to cancer, particularly adrenocortical carcinoma, while also forming disease-causing amyloid fibrils linked to Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases.
Cornell researchers study NGC 5291 system to understand tidal dwarf galaxies' properties. They find strong organic compound emission and warm molecular hydrogen in tidal dwarfs.
Inland water overfishing leads to declines in catch per unit effort and size of individuals captured, as well as sequential species declines. This can have severe impacts on human health, particularly in developing countries where fish are a primary protein source.
The Lancet highlights the need for validated research involving homeless people to expand and improve healthcare services. Addressing this data gap is crucial to sharing health advances with society as a whole.
Neurons in the inferior colliculus of the brain can detect changes in pitch, loudness, and duration of sounds, as well as complex patterns. These 'novelty detector neurons' prevent unimportant sounds from reaching the cortex, enabling people to ignore background noises.
A new study challenges conventional wisdom that vaginal delivery leads to urinary incontinence later in life. Instead, research suggests an underlying genetic predisposition plays a larger role. This finding has significant implications for basic research, treatment approaches and potential prophylactic interventions.
Researchers discovered that nicotinic acid activates GPR109A on fat cells to lower lipid levels, but on immune cells in the skin, it triggers flushing responses. This study supports the hypothesis that immune cells are a primary source of arachidonic acid and prostaglandins causing hot flashes.
A study by Keith Barrington and Annie Janvier found that hospital policies, staff training, and parent expectations significantly influence neonatal resuscitation decisions. The authors advocate for better documentation to ensure clear decision-making processes.
A new study published in the Journal of Clinical Investigation found that low-dose leptin therapy can reverse skeletal muscle, autonomic, and neuroendocrine adaptations associated with maintaining reduced body weight. The researchers suggest this approach may assist in long-term weight management.
Researchers at NIST and UPenn found that jammed networks formed by carbon nanotubes or nanofibers can create a continuous, heat-shield layer on top of polymer matrices, suppressing vigorous bubbling and improving flammability resistance. Optimal gel concentrations for single- and multi-walled carbon nanotubes were 0.5% and 1%, respecti...
A study published in the American Journal of Epidemiology found that regular physical activity can lower melatonin levels, which may contribute to a reduced risk of breast cancer. The research, conducted by researchers at the University of Toronto, involved 213 female volunteers and monitored their melatonin levels over time.
A recent study published in Ophthalmology found that the risk of vision loss due to corneal infections among users of 30-day soft contact lenses is extremely low. The study, which involved 6,245 patients, reported an overall annual rate of evident corneal infection of 18 per 10,000.
Researchers found that genetically modified rats with high levels of leptin receptors didn't become obese, even on high-fat diets. This suggests that preventing the disappearance of leptin receptors may be key to controlling obesity.
In a study published in the Journal of Clinical Investigation, Columbia University researchers discovered that replacing leptin in lean individuals who lost weight restored fat mass and reversed metabolic changes. The findings suggest that therapeutics targeting the leptin signaling pathway may assist in maintaining reduced body weight...
A new study published in Catheterization and Cardiovascular Interventions found that drug-eluting stents reduce the incidence of restenosis, heart attacks, and death by fourfold compared to conventional stents. Medicated stents were effective in keeping vein grafts open without affecting other parts of the bypass.
Studies using a laboratory model of PRODH deficiency demonstrate the role of COMT in compensating for overactive dopamine signaling, which contributes to schizophrenia symptoms. The findings show that disruptions in gene interaction, particularly between PRODH and COMT, play a crucial role in the development of schizophrenia.
A recent study examined the impact of the 1988 Spitak earthquake on adolescents in Armenia and found that psychotherapy provided sustained benefits even 1.5 years post-disaster. Untreated adolescents had higher levels of PTSD and depressive symptoms, while treated adolescents saw significant improvements in their conditions.
A study of accidentally imported ants in the US reveals that finding suitable nesting sites is key to successful invasion. Researchers identified 232 species from 394 samples and found that opportunity alone is no guarantee of success.
A Hopkins study found that cochlear implants can prevent and even reverse damage to the brain's auditory nerve system in cats. The research supports earlier implantation of devices in young children born deaf, as it minimizes complications and maximizes hearing restoration success.
A Cornell University study reveals that people in committed relationships experience higher levels of happiness and well-being compared to those in casual relationships. The stronger the relationship's commitment, the greater the happiness and sense of well-being among partners.
A new study by NCAR researchers finds that US-China trade imbalances significantly boost global carbon emissions, increasing US indirect responsibility. The study estimates an additional 720 million metric tons of CO2 emissions from 1997 to 2003 due to this imbalance.
Researchers found that hair follicle stem cells quickly mobilize to generate new cells that migrate into the wound area, contributing to wound healing. The study suggests a therapeutic target for developing drugs to enhance wound healing and treat patients with wounds.
The grant will support two graduate and five undergraduate students at Prairie View A&M University in Texas, as well as a postdoctoral position at North Carolina A&T University. The magnet lab will provide hands-on research experience for minority researchers, aiming to increase their participation in extreme conditions research.
The researchers created an artificial mammalian replication origin that can specify a DNA replication origin and enable scientists to explore the mechanism of replication initiation. This discovery will provide a new direction for creating vectors for gene therapy that are less mutagenic than current integrating vectors.
Researchers at Princeton University propose a new mathematical approach to produce desired configurations of nanoparticles by manipulating their interactions. This method could lead to radical implications in industries like telecommunications, computers, and aerospace engineering, as well as our understanding of life.