A pilot study by Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory researchers gathers baseline information on subway workers’ exposure to airborne metals. The study aims to determine if the elevated metal levels pose a health concern for transit workers.
A team led by Steven L. Salzberg and Michael B. Eisen found three new Wolbachia species in the Drosophila genome database, including Wolbachia wAna, wSim, and wMoj.
Research at Joslin Diabetes Center reveals that prenatal undernutrition can lead to impaired insulin production and higher blood glucose levels, setting the stage for type 2 diabetes. The study found that low-birth-weight mice had abnormal insulin secretion patterns, leading to permanent impairment.
Researchers investigate iron's impact on phytoplankton growth in the sub-Arctic Pacific, a crucial nutrient for ocean life. The findings could inform strategies to mitigate global warming by addressing the ocean's ecological dynamics.
The discovery of Neuquenraptor argentinus provides the first uncontroversial evidence that raptors roamed beyond the Northern Hemisphere. The find reveals a common raptor ancestor likely existed on both Gondwana and Laurasia supercontinents before they split apart.
A study found that PRO 2000 gel reduced HIV and HSV infectivity by at least 1000-fold, with no significant inflammatory response. The results suggest a potential safe and effective vaginal microbicide for preventing sexually transmitted infections.
Researchers at Fox Chase Cancer Center have identified an immune-system mutation in mice that can help them understand how T cells specialize to do different jobs. The mutation, which affects the helper-deficient (HD) mice strain, was found to redirect immature T cells towards killer-cell pathways.
Researchers find that mice with a double dose of IGF2 develop more precursor cells in the colon, doubling cancer risk when combined with a colon-cancer-causing genetic mutation. This epigenetic problem may contribute to colon cancer development.
Cassini mission data reveals the formation of molecular oxygen atmospheres in Saturn's rings without life present. This finding suggests that oxygen can be produced through non-biological means, complicating the search for life beyond Earth.
Researchers analyzed historical photographs to understand human-landscape interaction, revealing a link between tree clearing and erosion. The study found that riparian zones have improved over the past 30 years, benefiting stream health and ecosystem health.
Researchers have successfully created artificial atoms using superconducting materials, allowing for the measurement of quantum properties in two interconnected devices. This breakthrough enables the development of simple logic operations using artificial atoms, a crucial step toward building superconducting quantum computers.
The USDA will use NIST's Building for Environmental and Economic Sustainability (BEES) tool to evaluate the environmental and economic performance of biobased products over their life cycles. Biobased products made from renewable materials will be preferred in federal procurement.
A study found that over 28% of elderly individuals received potentially inappropriate medications, with women receiving more than men. The use of these medications has not decreased, highlighting the need for further understanding of their rationale.
A study found that paid tobacco industry consultants dominated the journal's editorial board, influencing research on environmental tobacco smoke. 61% of relevant papers published during this period had positive conclusions favorable to the tobacco industry.
A new study published in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society found that spouse caregiving situations are associated with potentially harmful behavior, compromised mental and physical health, and increased mortality risk. Researchers highlight the need for screening and intervention efforts to address this issue.
As millions of children with special health-care needs turn 18, researchers warn of a culture clash between pediatric and adult medicine. The influx is putting pressure on healthcare systems, with patients facing difficulties in receiving adequate pain relief and accessing comprehensive care.
A study published in Arthritis & Rheumatism reveals a significant association between serum hyaluronan (HA) levels and osteoarthritis severity. The research, conducted on over 3,000 volunteers, suggests that HA levels may serve as a biomarker for diagnosing osteoarthritis.
New imaging technologies provide non-invasive diagnostic tools for orthopedic conditions, allowing for early disease detection and objective outcome measures. These technologies enable precise quantification of bone loss and synovial reaction in osteoarthritis, facilitating more effective treatment strategies.
Research in post-tsunami Thailand reveals key findings on building materials, structures, and orientations that can help minimize damage. Elevated structures, reinforced concrete, and strong foundations are among the essential elements to consider when designing coastal constructions.
A new Standard Reference Material from NIST will help clinical genetics labs accurately count fragile-X repeat sequences. The SRM 2399 consists of nine DNA samples with triplet repeats ranging from 20 to 118, ensuring quality control and check on test procedures.
Researchers analyzed viral RNA from 39 couples in a long-term HIV study to identify variations of the virus that were transmitted during sex. The findings showed distinct patterns in HIV-1 variant diversity for male-to-female versus female-to-male transmission.
A comprehensive review of subway systems reveals potential for health and safety hazards, including terrorism, transmission of infectious diseases, and high noise levels. The study highlights the need for risk assessment studies to mitigate these risks and improve subway safety.
Researchers will conduct detailed measurements and analysis of contaminants in building plumbing systems to inform effective responses to contamination incidents. The study's findings will support the development of EPA guidelines for protecting drinking water supplies within buildings.
The 21st-century model of healthcare focuses on the family before and after genetic testing, clustering genomic disorders based on similar patterns of psychosocial demands. This approach incorporates key disease variables to inform effective treatment interventions.
The Lancet report highlights the 'silent humanitarian crisis' of 3900 children dying daily from inadequate sanitation and safe drinking water. The authors recommend scaling up efforts to expand coverage by 2015 without significant financial investment or technological breakthroughs.
A recent study of 1,323 women reveals a significant gap in osteoporosis treatment based on fracture history. Women with past fractures are at a higher risk of future osteoporosis, emphasizing the importance of considering fracture history in treatment decisions.
Fuel cells could power laptops for a week, reducing recharging time, and provide efficient energy for cars, buses, and mobile devices. UNC researchers are developing liquid precursors to enhance PEM membrane performance, paving the way for more effective fuel cell manufacturing.
Vaccination of healthy children in the US and Canada shows limited efficacy in reducing disease spread, hospitalizations, and complications. The study's findings suggest that immunization of very young children does not support a reduction in mortality and community transmission.
The new test structures provide a wider range of reference feature sizes and are measured more precisely than previously available materials. Industry can use these reference materials to calibrate tools to reliably measure microprocessor-device gates.
A study of 294 injection drug users found that those who had injected for over two years were two and a half times more likely to access syringes from safe sources. Safe injection and disposal practices were not associated with HIV, hepatitis C, or syringe sharing.
Countries like Canada, USA, Australia, and New Zealand have adopted stringent policies for compulsory screening of new entrants for TB and HIV. However, UK public inquiry concluded that such a policy would not be effective at protecting public health.
Scientists observed a breakdown in neuronal transport, leading to abnormal protein buildup and neuron failure. The study suggests that impaired axonal transport may be an early indicator of Alzheimer's disease.
A novel self-replicating microorganism, nanobacteria, has been linked to kidney stone formation in astronauts and may pose an infectious risk. The discovery provides additional clues to understanding the link between nanobacteria and pathologic calcification-related diseases.
Shigella bacteria uses a Type III secretion system to inject proteins into human cells, causing inflammation and symptoms of dysentery. The bacteria's lipopolysaccharide (LPS) shield protects it from being destroyed by the immune system.
A Penn study will compare two heart failure management technologies to reduce emergency room visits and improve patient outcomes. The study aims to assess the impact of health information technologies on clinical and financial outcomes for patients with symptomatic heart failure.
Researchers at UT Southwestern will investigate the consequences of space radiation exposure on human health, with a focus on lung cancer and its prevention. The $9.8 million grant will enable the development of new cell systems and animal models to study high-energy particles in space.
Hopkins researchers identify NKCC1 as key player in maintaining high chloride levels in odor-detecting cells. The same transporter facilitates secretion of digestive juices and communication between the nose and brain. This finding sheds light on how our bodies process smells and could lead to new understanding of neurological functions.
Researchers have elucidated the structure of gp120 before its shape change, providing crucial insights into how the protein binds to the CD4 receptor and enables HIV membrane fusion. This knowledge may lead to the development of new compounds that inhibit this shape change, offering a promising route for HIV treatment and prevention.
Researchers found that Pax3 plays dual roles in adult stem cells, directing them to become melanocytes while preventing complete differentiation. This discovery opens new avenues for understanding stem cell biology and its potential role in cancer development.
UC Berkeley researchers developed a mathematical model of the brain's electrical activity during seizures, which may aid in understanding and treating epilepsy. The model, compared with real-world data from electrodes implanted in a patient, suggests that strong coherent waves of electrical activity are responsible for seizure spread.
The study shows that blocking CK2 activity makes cancer cells sensitive to TRAIL-induced apoptosis, a promising strategy for treating colorectal cancer and other solid tumors. Researchers used a CK2-inhibitor or short hairpin RNA to block CK2 activity, sensitizing cancer cells to TRAIL and inducing cell death.
A California university study found that improved infrastructure around schools increases walking and biking habits in kids, contrary to a decades-long trend of decreased physical activity. Parents report their children are three times more likely to walk or bike to school near such improvements.
Astronomers have detected an invisible galaxy made mostly of dark matter for the first time using radio telescopes. The discovery was made by a British-led team and confirmed with the Arecibo telescope in Puerto Rico.
Researchers resolve global atmospheric circulation and cumulus convection issues using new modeling approaches. Volcanologists examine relationships between magma movement and fault orientation to better understand earthquake locations. Coral analysis reveals correlation between Indian Ocean sea surface temperature changes and El Nino ...
Researchers have discovered that the George VI Ice Shelf experienced a significant retreat around 9,500 years ago, driven by changes in ocean currents. This finding challenges the long-held assumption that rising air temperatures are the primary cause of ice shelf collapse.
Researchers have developed an MRI approach using shutter speed analysis, which provides more accurate information on breast cancer detection. This method distinguishes between malignant and benign tumors, improving diagnosis and treatment outcomes.
Recent research in chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) identifies genetic and protein markers that can predict patient outcomes. These new markers may enable earlier treatment, improving survival rates and altering the disease's progression.
Researchers at Rice University and Georgia Institute of Technology developed bimetallic nanoparticles that can break down TCE, a toxic organic pollutant found in US groundwater. The particles increase the efficiency of TCE remediation by several orders of magnitude compared to bulk catalysts.
A new study by Kari Lerum examines the impact of sexual banter and power dynamics in three restaurant settings. She found that within certain cultural and organizational contexts, these encounters can help create a sense of belonging and empower workers to have control over their working conditions.
Bidding frenzy, a mental state characterized by high arousal and competition, causes consumers to value auctioned products more highly. The study found that English auctions, where bidders compete directly, lead to higher values due to dynamic interaction with publicly available high bids.
Researchers found a 7ºC temperature difference causing more evaporation and snowfall, leading to ice accumulation. This discovery helps improve climate models, shedding light on the ocean's role in climate change.
A new study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that treatment with recombinant activated factor VII (rFVIIa) significantly reduces bleeding in brain, decreases mortality by nearly 40%, and reduces long-term disability for patients with intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH). The study showed a significant improvement in cli...
Researchers at Purdue University have identified a plant protein complex that triggers cellular growth and development, similar to animal development. The discovery opens new avenues for understanding plant growth and potentially designing plants with enhanced protection against insects and disease.
Scientists have discovered that termites use vibrations to determine suitable food sources, a finding that could lead to new methods for reducing termite damage. The study also reveals the 'cocktail party effect' of signal processing, where termites can distinguish between signals from other termites and artificial signals.
New cartilage repair techniques have been shown to improve knee function and reduce pain in patients. Studies using osteochondral allografts and microfracture procedures resulted in better outcomes, including increased knee function and reduced pain, after a minimum of two years.
A UK study found that only 5% of internet users visited the House of Commons website in the past year, while 40% visit news and current affairs websites. The telephone remains the preferred method for conveying views to MPs, with e-mail gaining popularity among younger generations.
A new study reveals that Mcl-1 protein is essential for the survival of hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs), which can contribute to poor leukemia outcomes. The research suggests that interfering with this protein may improve leukemia treatment options.
A recent study reveals that cancer cells can develop resistance to gefitinib by mutating the EGFR gene, altering the drug's binding pocket and rendering it ineffective. This finding could lead to the development of new targeted therapies to treat non-small cell lung cancer.
Researchers have successfully regenerated the optic nerve in mice using a combination of techniques that prevent the formation of scar tissue. The study, led by Dr. Chen, shows promise for treating eye injuries and potentially improving outcomes for patients with glaucoma and spinal cord damage.
The E. histolytica genome sequence shows a degraded core genome with retained and expanded gene families characteristic of more complex organisms. This study provides insights into the amoeba's unusual shared biology with anaerobic gut bacteria, shedding light on its metabolic processes and potential drug targets.