Researchers found a strong association between high levels of C. pneumoniae antibodies and the occurrence of heart attacks in young men. The study suggests that C. pneumoniae may play a role in the pathogenesis of heart disease, but further research is needed to confirm the link.
Researchers have genetically altered a herpes simplex virus to selectively target and kill malignant glioma cells, with promising results in mouse studies. The modified virus can extend the lives of animals with implanted human gliomas by several days.
Researchers identify renalase as a novel protein regulating cardiac function and blood pressure. WNK1/4 interaction is also crucial for controlling human blood pressure and familial hyperkalemic hypertension (FHHt) risk.
Researchers find specific shapes of amyloid fibrils, not amino acid sequences, determine prion infectivity across species. This breakthrough offers insights into the mechanisms behind prion diseases and potential transmission between previously separate animals.
Researchers at Yale University have developed a method to remotely control fly behavior using laser light, demonstrating a direct link between specific neurons and behaviors. The technique involves genetically engineered 'phototriggers' that respond to light pulses, allowing for non-invasive control of neural activity.
Researchers tested genetic diversity on Italian agile frog tadpoles exposed to a North American virus, finding that disease susceptibility paralleled population genetic variability. The study highlights the risks of population bottlenecks and inbreeding and suggests a method for predicting responses to new infectious diseases.
Lupin flour, a common ingredient in some foods, may cause an allergic reaction in people with peanut allergies. Those with peanut allergies are advised to avoid all products containing lupin until further testing can confirm its safety.
A six-month study found that long-acting naltrexone injections reduced heavy drinking within the first month of treatment and maintained this response over time. The medication was associated with significant reductions in alcohol dependence when used in conjunction with counseling sessions.
Researchers will investigate the safety and effectiveness of polyunsaturated fatty acids derived from plants like flaxseed, echium, and borage. The studies aim to prevent and treat inflammatory diseases, with an estimated one in three Americans suffering from such conditions within two decades.
Researchers have discovered that molecular motors dynein and kinesin do not compete for control when moving cellular cargo, but instead cooperate to produce more than 10 times the speed of individual motors. This cooperative behavior allows the cargo to move faster and with greater precision inside the cell.
A new study suggests that up to 40% of the early Earth's atmosphere was composed of hydrogen, creating a more favorable climate for the production of pre-biotic organic compounds. This finding contradicts traditional models and supports the idea that life may have emerged earlier than previously thought.
African Americans with lupus have a higher prevalence of EBV-IgG antibodies and EBV-IgA antibodies, which increases the risk of lupus. Genetic variation in CTLA-4 also affects the immune response to EBV in lupus patients.
Chronic inflammation during dialysis enhances oxidative stress, leading to cardiovascular disease, malnutrition, and poor outcomes. Antioxidant supplementation and ROS modulation are proposed solutions to prevent these complications.
Scripps Research scientists identified that certain tissues are more susceptible to amyloid plaques due to their ability to efficiently release misfolded protein. The study found that cells secreting proteins into these tissues secrete the bad proteins most efficiently, making them a key factor in tissue selectivity.
Researchers found that adolescents averaging five minutes of vigorous physical activity per day were leaner and fitter than their peers. This suggests that general exercise recommendations for adolescents should encourage vigorous physical activity to help them maintain a healthy weight.
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.