Research led by Ohio State University found a mutation in the PTEN gene in three people with autism and large heads, raising concerns about an increased cancer risk. The study suggests that individuals with autism and macrocephaly should be offered genetic counseling and testing for PTEN mutations.
The new technique improves specificity of human estrogen receptor alpha by 100 million times, allowing for targeted activation or deactivation of genes in living systems. This breakthrough could lead to advances in gene therapy, metabolic engineering, and animal disease model studies.
A long-term study found that lack of regular vigorous physical activity was the strongest predictor of functional decline in older adults with arthritis. Engaging in exercise or physical activity can reduce functional deterioration by up to 32 percent, according to researchers.
Researchers found that bacterial lineages can be traced despite widespread gene-swapping, which affects medicine and treatment. The study also identifies common genetic material transmission mechanisms.
Researchers identified a new protein called renalase, which regulates heart rate and blood pressure. Reduced levels of renalase have been linked to increased cardiovascular risk in patients with end-stage kidney disease.
A study in mice suggests that dopamine and serotonin neurotransmitters sometimes interact, causing delays in mood stabilization. This interaction may lead to alternative approaches for developing antidepressant treatments that target serotonin entry into dopamine terminals.
Researchers use genetically engineered flies to demonstrate controlled neural manipulation, offering a promising approach for studying behavior and potentially treating neurological disorders. The system involves triggering molecular lock-and-key interactions with laser light, enabling precise activation of specific nerve cells.
Researchers have discovered a new process called sumoylation that regulates key ion channels, including the background potassium channel. This process allows cells to control the flow of ions, which is essential for various cellular activities such as nerve impulses and muscle contractions.
The International Society for Heart and Lung Transplantation has created new, comprehensive guidelines to help organ centers update their policies. The guidelines aim to bridge patients to transplant by offering pharmacological, surgical, and device-based interventions.
The study found that women who received stents experienced a significant reduction in major adverse cardiac events and death rates compared to those treated with balloon angioplasty. Stenting was also shown to decrease the need for re-intervention, a critical factor contributing to higher mortality risk in women.
A massive Christmas week snowstorm broke records for snow intensity, size, and damages across the Ohio River valley. The storm dumped record snowfall, causing over $900 million in losses, including thousands of injuries and 17 deaths.
A study published in Health Services Research found that patients with head injuries transferred from rural trauma centers to Level I trauma centers in Oregon and Washington had a 10% lower mortality risk. This improvement is attributed to the comprehensive care and training programs available at Level I centers.
Researchers confirm the existence of protein-coding genes on chromosomes 2 and 4, with chromosome 2 home to the longest known gene. The study also identifies the largest 'gene deserts' in the human genome sequence, raising possibilities for studying genome evolution.
Researchers found a gene, Elp1, that regulates cell polarity in yeast, offering insight into Familial Dysautonomia's pathogenesis. The protein plays an essential role in cell growth and neuron development, which may be disrupted in FD patients.
Dr. Morris and Dr. Petersen have developed methods to detect preclinical Alzheimer's disease, a precursor to the onset of symptoms. Their research has the potential to identify a pre-clinical stage of AD that can be targeted for disease-modifying therapies.
A study on the geography of education found that homeschoolers represent a significant segment of the education universe, estimated at 20% of privately-schooled population in the US. The number of homeschoolers has grown in states with low to moderate regulation, but data is still limited due to varying reporting requirements.
Researchers have found that some galaxies and their central black holes underwent a phenomenal growth spurt, setting the stage for the birth of quasars. The study used Chandra X-ray observations to track the growth of supermassive black holes alongside the formation of stars in these galaxies.
Researchers have completed DNA sequences of human chromosomes 2 and 4, revealing large gene deserts and remnants of a chimpanzee chromosome merger. The study highlights the importance of these regions in regulating genes and has implications for understanding human genetic variation and disease.
A new pump device, partnered with stem cell technology, aims to address heart failure and improve heart function. Research on ventricular assist devices (VADs) and pediatric devices is also ongoing, with a focus on developing smaller devices for children and improving outcomes.
Researchers found that sensory deprivation reduces the size of new interneurons in the olfactory system but compensates with increased excitability. This preserves the function of interneurons in processing input if restored.
Researchers from University of California at Santa Barbara explore traditional methods for making maize beer, barley and emmer wheat beer, and other ancient beverages. They find that operational chains of food and beverage production offered challenges and opportunities to sponsors, shaping feasting strategies.
Research reveals smoking reduces live birth rates by 28% and adds a decade to reproductive age for IVF patients. Quitting smoking and losing weight can improve IVF success rates, particularly for women with unexplained subfertility.
Researchers discovered a gene, Ipr1, on mouse chromosome 1 that influences innate immunity to tuberculosis and another intracellular pathogen, Listeria monocytogenes. The study suggests that the human equivalent of Ipr1, SP110, may play a significant role in determining tuberculosis susceptibility.
A new study suggests that insomnia is more likely to lead to falls in older adults than previously believed. The research found that individuals with untreated insomnia were 90% more likely to fall, compared to those taking sleep medications. Effective treatment of insomnia can help reduce the risk of falls.
Joseph L. Fink III has been recognized with the National Pharmacy Leadership Award for his dedication to promoting pharmacist development and leadership qualities among students. He is a prominent figure in pharmacy law and public policy, having served in various roles at the University of Kentucky.
A warmer climate could lead to increased road salt use due to more precipitation falling as sleet and freezing rain, but this might also reduce ski traffic and winter economy. The study aims to model climate change impacts on salt and sand usage in the Adirondack Park.
Researchers found nearly half of ancient grains were rice, contradicting earlier theories. The discovery also suggests a rice-wheat complex developed before writing emerged in the region.
AlloMap molecular expression testing enables proactive monitoring of immune system signals, identifying rejection before it occurs. This non-invasive technology eliminates the need for frequent biopsies, improving individual patient outcomes and reducing patient discomfort.
Researchers found that subjects who watched a video of someone learning to navigate a robotic device improved their own performance when faced with similar challenges. However, the benefits of observation were diminished when performing unrelated arm movements during observation.
Researchers aboard the drilling vessel JOIDES Resolution recovered rocks from over 4,644 feet below the sea floor, providing valuable information about the composition of the Earth. The effort missed its target of reaching the Earth's mantle by less than 1,000 feet, but will still provide important clues on how ocean crust forms.
A trial found that raloxifene, a commonly prescribed drug for osteoporosis, reduced the risk of mild cognitive impairment by 33% in postmenopausal women. The study suggests that estrogen-like effects on the central nervous system may play a role in this finding.
Researchers found that listening to soft music before bedtime improved sleep quality and reduced daytime dysfunction in older adults. The study, published in the Journal of Advanced Nursing, used a technique where participants chose from six tapes featuring soft music and reported significant improvements in overall sleep quality.
The study found that the risk of HIV transmission is highest during early infection, with an average rate of 8.2 per 1000 coital acts, compared to 0.7-1.5 during established infection. The rate rose again late in infection, highlighting the need for targeted prevention efforts.
Archaeologists have discovered ancient sheep dung in the Negev Desert, revealing the earliest evidence of domestic herding in the region. The dung dates back an estimated 7,000 years and has preserved valuable information about the lives of early pastoral nomads.
Biologists find that garter snake nerve cell proteins undergo rapid evolutionary changes to detoxify the newt's potent toxin TTX, enabling the snakes to survive. This molecular arms race allows the garter snakes to evade their toxic prey.
Scientists have found nanobacteria in terrestrial environments and four continents, suggesting they may play a role in global disease dispersal. The microbes are also thought to contribute to cloud formation and nucleation.
A study by Julie Mennella and colleagues found that moderate alcohol consumption decreases oxytocin levels, which affects milk ejection and production. The increased prolactin levels associated with breast fullness may also contribute to the decline of milk production.
Researchers found that adding a fish oil, soluble fiber, and antioxidant supplement to standard medical therapy significantly reduced the dose of corticosteroids needed to control symptoms. The study provides an alternative treatment option for patients with ulcerative colitis.
The Tufts Health Sciences Library has created SPIRAL, a one-of-a-kind resource providing health information to Asian Americans in their native languages and English. The project aims to bridge the gap between patients speaking limited English and their healthcare providers.
The American Association for Cancer Research has conferred international awards to world-class scientists, with recipients presenting lectures at the AACR Annual Meeting. The honorees represent leading researchers in basic research, clinical care, and prevention.
Researchers have identified the KMO enzyme as a potential therapeutic target for Huntington's disease, with a chemical compound already available to inhibit its activity. The discovery could take research in a new direction towards microglial cells, which are thought to play an important role in the progression of the disease.
A study found that alcohol consumption disrupts the hormonal balance of lactating women, leading to decreased oxytocin levels and increased prolactin levels. This can result in slower milk ejection and reduced milk production.
Researchers found asthmatics produce lower levels of interferon beta, making them more susceptible to respiratory virus infections. A potential new treatment for asthma attacks involves using a device to top up interferon levels in the lungs.
Dr. Sahin will investigate the role of SMN protein in motor axon growth and identify potential therapeutic targets for SMA. The award provides support for his research and that of his mentor, Dr. Greenberg.
Researchers found that individuals with higher financial assets before becoming disabled reported better well-being and less sadness after disability, compared to those with lower financial resources. The study suggests that financial security is crucial for maintaining psychological well-being during times of health decline.
Study reveals nearly two times higher likelihood of metabolic syndrome in women with PCOS, leading to increased risk of early-onset cardiovascular disease. Women with both conditions exhibit more severe insulin resistance.
The US Army, Navy and Air Force academies will enroll 4,800 male and female cadets in a four-year study to investigate risk factors for knee injuries. The study aims to refine ACL injury prevention programs and identify neuromuscular factors associated with increased risk.
Knudson's two-hit theory explained the hereditary and sporadic forms of retinoblastoma, launching the study of tumor suppressor genes. His work has profoundly influenced cancer research, guiding countless geneticists and molecular biologists.
Researchers found no detectable levels of SV40 in 69 tumors tested using a highly sensitive assay. The study's protocol aimed to eliminate possible contamination from DNA vectors used in laboratories worldwide.
Researchers found genetically similar fish in ecologically similar habitats across vast distances, contradicting the idea that geographical barriers drive speciation. This discovery supports ecological speciation and suggests a new approach to understanding biodiversity evolution on land and sea.
Researchers found that SSRIs increase serotonin levels in synapses, but also 'trick' dopamine transporters into retrieving serotonin, causing cosignaling. This complex effect may explain delayed antianxiety effects and behavioral abnormalities in children.
Researchers discover distinct phase of rheumatoid arthritis immediately after symptom onset, enabling early treatment and potentially halting disease progression. The study proposes a new therapeutic window for potent anti-inflammatory therapies during the first few months of clinically apparent disease.
Researchers at Imperial College London have discovered a way to decrease allergic reactions by boosting the levels of CD4+ regulatory T-cells. This breakthrough could lead to new treatments for allergies and autoimmune diseases such as type 1 diabetes and multiple sclerosis.
Dr. Brenda Milner, a renowned cognitive neuroscientist, has been awarded the 2005 Gairdner Award for her pioneering work on brain function and memory systems. Her research with patient HM has significantly advanced our understanding of episodic and procedural memory.
A team of scientists found that a small mutation in softshell clams' nerve tissue prevents paralytic shellfish toxins from binding, causing the clams to accumulate high levels of toxins. This resistance allows them to survive harmful algal blooms and increase the risk of paralytic shellfish poisoning in humans.
Researchers at Vanderbilt University developed an ultra-fast optical shutter with a record-breaking speed of 40 picoseconds, enabling high-speed imaging applications. The new technology uses femtosecond laser pulses to freeze light at the molecular level, opening doors for breakthroughs in fields like biology and materials science.
A mutation in clams has been discovered that protects them against paralytic shellfish poisoning, but increases the risk to humans who consume them. The mutation enables contaminated clams to survive in areas with toxic algae, highlighting a need for new safety protocols.
A new vaccine targeting HPV types 16 and 18, responsible for 70% of cervical cancers and 90% of genital warts, has shown significant effectiveness in reducing persistent infection and disease. The vaccine was 100% effective against precancerous lesions and genital warts associated with these four HPV types.
Researchers found that hormonal contraceptives and bacterial infections like BV and GBS increase the risk of shedding type-2 herpes. Treatment for these infections may help reduce HSV-2 shedding frequency, controlling its transmission.
Researchers are developing a vaccine using dendritic cells to boost the immune system against lung cancer recurrence. The study enrolls patients for two years, with promising previous results, aiming to treat 30 new patients.