A new study by Ohio State University researchers suggests that individuals who are reluctant to express their opinions in public may also avoid participating in political activities, such as working for a campaign or circulating petitions. This avoidance is linked to a tendency to self-censor and fear of social repercussions.
Researchers have identified the JNK, Wnt, and FGF signaling cascades as the most important actors in axon growth, showing that growth is independent of neuronal activity. This finding brings greater clarity to the axon's growth process and has implications for understanding nerve diseases such as Alzheimer's and multiple sclerosis.
Early mammals' eyes have only one version of the photoreceptor gene that detects light, unlike birds, fish, and amphibians with two versions. This suggests they may have been nocturnal creatures.
Young children with autism struggle to categorize objects into abstract groups, particularly living and nonliving things. They have difficulty recognizing goals and motivations of others due to a fundamental deficit in distinguishing between animate and inanimate objects.
A new study estimates 655,000 more Iraqi deaths due to the 2003 invasion than expected in a non-conflict situation. The mortality rate doubled from 5.5 to 13.3 per 1000 people per year post-invasion.
A nationwide survey of Iraq households found 654,965 additional deaths from March 2003 to July 2006, with violence being the primary cause. The study's results are consistent with earlier estimates and mirror trends reported by other organizations, highlighting the need for a more comprehensive system to track mortality in conflict zones.
Research by S. Kankova and colleagues found that Toxoplasma positive mothers give birth to more boys than negative women, with a probability of up to 72 boys in every 100 children born. The increased survival of male embryos may be attributed to the parasite's modulating effects on the immune system.
Researchers highlight the importance of understanding risk factors for heel ulcers, which are often linked to peripheral neuropathy and diminished vascular function. Additionally, studies demonstrate the effectiveness of lateral-wedge insoles in relieving pain and stiffness in people with knee osteoarthritis. The study also explores th...
Researchers at Brookhaven National Laboratory discovered a way to control the assembly of gold nanoparticles using rigid, double-stranded DNA, which can lead to more efficient energy generation and data storage. The technique takes advantage of DNA's natural tendency to pair up components, allowing for more efficient assembly.
Researchers are using a robot named Eliza to provide specialist medical care to children in rural areas via video-link consultations with Brisbane specialists. The robot project aims to deliver high-quality clinical care and professional support to regional health staff.
New evidence suggests Bering Strait flooded into Arctic Ocean 11,000 years ago, challenging traditional view of human migration from Asia to Americas. Sediment cores collected from Chukchi Sea reveal high resolution records of climate change and sea level rise.
The three-dimensional structure of insulin-degrading enzyme suggests ways to develop drugs that could either speed up or slow down its activity. The researchers discovered small mutations that increased the enzyme's activity by 40-fold, providing a blueprint for developing similar effects.
Singapore's top scientists recognized for their innovative contributions to biomedical sciences and quantum research. A team developed a sequencing technology to characterize the human genome, while others made breakthroughs in micro motors and robotic surgery.
The Cassini spacecraft has found additional faint ring structures formed by processes acting on and within Saturn's moons and main rings. The newly discovered rings are created by impacts onto larger bodies, releasing material that creates diffuse rings.
Researchers at Virginia Commonwealth University identified a new mechanism of action for FTY720, an immunosuppressant drug that also inhibits the activity of key enzyme cPLA2, driving inflammatory disorders. The inhibition may shut down the entire inflammatory pathway without side effects.
A new study by Cincinnati researchers found that children of allergy sufferers are more likely to develop allergic sensitization at a younger age. The study suggests reevaluating skin testing practices for airborne allergens in infants under 4 or 5 years old.
A new study suggests that some insects could have grown larger during the late Paleozoic period due to higher oxygen levels. The tracheal system of insects allows them to transport oxygen efficiently, but this system limits their growth.
Trevor Shen Kuan Ng's Ph.D. thesis focuses on the mechanical properties of dough and its behavior under forces, providing valuable information for commercial bakeries. His research has led to a deeper understanding of gluten's role in dough elasticity and texture.
Researchers at MIT and Hong Kong University have developed a biodegradable liquid that can stop bleeding in wounded rodents within seconds by forming a protective barrier gel. This breakthrough could significantly impact medicine, particularly in emergency surgery situations.
A study published in JAMA found that psoriasis patients are at a higher risk of heart attack, particularly those with severe psoriasis. Younger patients with severe psoriasis had the highest relative risk of heart attack, similar to other major cardiac risk factors.
A three-year study funded by the CDC found a link between consuming poultry, handling raw poultry, and increased risk of antibiotic-resistant bacteria. The investigation focused on the use of virginiamycin in poultry, which is linked to an increased risk of developing Synercid-resistant E. faecium.
A reduced-calorie orange juice beverage fortified with plant sterols lowered 'bad' cholesterol and inflammation in healthy volunteers. The study found a significant decrease in C-reactive protein levels, suggesting a potential benefit for heart disease prevention.
Researchers at University of Wisconsin-Madison found a link between dust storms and hurricane frequency in Atlantic, suggesting that dust may help suppress brewing hurricanes. The study suggests that long-term changes in hurricanes may be related to multiple factors.
Researchers found that seals can dive to over 1,000 meters and for more than an hour without shivering, allowing their bodies to cool and reduce oxygen demand. This adaptation helps seals conserve oxygen and minimize brain damage caused by hypoxia during long dives.
The Genetic Association Information Network (GAIN) has selected six studies to undergo whole genome analysis to identify genetic contributions to common illnesses. The studies focus on disorders of the brain, skin, and kidney, including depression, bipolar disorder, and diabetes.
A study published in the Journal of Surgical Research found that reducing surgical resident work hours did not significantly improve perceived quality of patient care. Residents reported fewer fatigue-related errors but more continuity and communication issues.
A study published in JAMA Network found that adults with psoriasis, particularly those with severe forms of the condition, are at a higher risk for heart attacks. The research also revealed that younger patients with severe psoriasis have a significantly increased relative risk compared to other major cardiac risk factors.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins have found that lung cancer cells exploit the NRF2 gene to detoxify chemicals, including chemotherapy agents, rendering them ineffective. This discovery may lead to new treatment strategies by blocking NRF2 activity, potentially improving standard chemotherapy drug efficacy.
Daily exposure to noise on subway platforms and cars can cause hearing loss, with average maximum levels exceeding recommended limits by up to 30 minutes. Researchers found that frequent long-term rides and other high-noise activities increase the risk of hearing damage.
St. Jude researchers discover that the Six2 gene prevents kidney stem cells from differentiating, maintaining a source of undifferentiated stem cells needed for kidney growth. The absence of Six2 leads to smaller, non-functional kidneys in developing mice.
Researchers at Rockefeller University developed a modified HIV virus that can infect both human and monkey cells, paving the way for more effective vaccine testing. By manipulating key proteins, they created a 'simian tropic HIV' (stHIV) that replicates vigorously in primate cells.
A new study by University of Florida researchers found that almost all decaffeinated coffee contains some measure of caffeine. This can be a concern for people with medical conditions like hypertension or anxiety disorders who are advised to cut their caffeine intake.
Researchers found that histamine receptor overactivation may cause low blood pressure during exercise recovery, leading to fainting. Antihistamine use before exercise significantly reduced post-exercise hypotension in a study.
Researchers at Harvard University found that the dynamic elastic and dampening roles of ankles, feet, and other distal extremities help legged animals maintain stability on uneven terrain after stumbling. By modulating limbs dynamically, selectively, and quickly, animals can recover from falls and maintain forward momentum.
A team of world-renowned scientists is conducting a 23-day research cruise to explore coral reef biodiversity in the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands Marine National Monument. The census aims to provide baseline information on the diversity, distribution, and abundance of ocean life, with a focus on lesser-known species.
The new radiofrequency device-based approach significantly shortens the Cox-Maze procedure from over 90 minutes to just 30 minutes. The ablation technology disrupts abnormal electrical activity, normalizing heart rhythm and eliminating atrial fibrillation in over 90% of patients.
Researchers have developed a new technique to send secret messages over public internet lines using optical fiber networks, hiding the message in optical noise. The method uses commercially available equipment and is secure even if eavesdroppers know a secret transmission is taking place.
A new study from the University of Southern California found that post-menopausal women's hormone levels vary by ethnicity and race, potentially explaining differences in breast cancer rates. Native Hawaiians have a higher risk of breast cancer due to their high estrogen levels.
Researchers at Karolinska Institutet found that omega-3 fatty acid supplements slowed cognitive decline in a subgroup of patients with very mild Alzheimer's disease, while no effect was seen in those with more advanced disease. The study suggests that omega-3 supplements may be beneficial in halting initial progression of the disease.
A study in Scotland found that bar workers experienced significant reductions in respiratory symptoms and lung function after a smoking ban. After 2 months, 46.8% of participants reported no symptoms, showing a 32.4% decrease from baseline.
New research reveals that shorebirds' breeding systems are shaped by the battle over childcare responsibilities. The study found that parents with demanding young are more likely to stay together to help rear their offspring, while those with harder-to-raise young are more likely to fight for mating opportunities.
Researchers found that dopamine plays a critical role in regulating sleep and brain activity associated with dreaming. Animal models of Parkinson's disease and schizophrenia exhibited sleep disturbances when dopamine levels were reduced or increased, suggesting a link between dopamine imbalances and sleep problems in these conditions.
States with personal belief exemptions and easily accessible immunization exemptions experience higher rates of whooping cough, according to a study published in JAMA. The study found that states granting personal belief exemptions had higher exemption rates, leading to increased incidence of pertussis.
Research by Boston University links periodontal disease to increased stroke risk in older adults. The study suggests that periodontitis may be a marker for negative effects of risk factors common to both conditions.
Pollutants from Central American biomass burning influence air quality and climate in the United States, particularly visibility and surface air temperatures. The smoke plumes also trap aerosols in the lower atmosphere, worsening air quality.
A team from Rice University and UT-Houston report a unique grip of the protein calmodulin, which operates independently like a batter in a bunt. This new grip plays a key role in allowing muscles to contract and relax quickly.
The Burnham Institute for Medical Research will create a world-class neuroscience research center with a $12.7 million NIH grant. The center will bring together nearly 100 scientists from four San Diego institutions to study the nervous system and develop treatments for nervous system diseases.
Schema Therapy has been shown to be more effective than traditional Transference Focused Psychotherapy in treating Borderline Personality Disorder. The therapy achieved full recovery in about 50% of patients and significant improvement in two-thirds, with a lower dropout rate and lower cost.
A new study found that longer-lived rodents have significantly lower levels of a thyroid hormone that regulates metabolic rate. The study suggests an important regulatory role of thyroid hormone in longevity, with higher thyroid hormone levels correlating with shorter lifespans.
Patients in New Zealand who are dissatisfied with medical care may choose between two paths: one leading to monetary compensation and the other to nonmonetary forms of accountability. Alternative forms of accountability, such as explanations and apologies, may be more efficient and effective than monetary compensation.
A recent meta-analysis found that certain personality variables predict aggressive behavior, including anger, irritability, and impulsivity. The study analyzed data from 63 studies and identified two patterns of associations: aggression-prone and provocation-sensitive individuals.
Engineering Our Future NJ is a statewide effort to train 2,000 teachers in New Jersey's K-12 curriculum with engineering integration. Verizon Communications provided a $500,000 leadership grant to fund the program.
A study found that patients who stayed in rooms previously occupied by MRSA carriers were more likely to acquire the bacteria, with an increased risk of 4.5% compared to 2.8%. Similarly, VRE acquisition was linked to prior occupant contamination, highlighting the importance of effective cleaning practices.
Researchers found a connection between celiac disease and cognitive decline in patients with documented symptoms. Three patients showed reversal of cognitive symptoms after gluten withdrawal, suggesting a potentially reversible form of cognitive impairment.
Researchers found that a mammary pheromone in mother's milk facilitates newborns' ability to quickly associate environmental odors with the opportunity to nurse. This learning is efficient from birth and promotes essential skills like suckling instincts.
A new study reveals that plataspid stinkbug gut symbionts have evolved in tandem with their hosts, sharing unique genetic traits. The symbiotic lifestyle is crucial for the stinkbugs' survival, and its influence on genome evolution has been observed.
A study published in Nicotine & Tobacco Research found that naltrexone significantly improved smoking cessation rates for women, with a 49% increase in success rates compared to men. The medication reduced cravings and withdrawal symptoms, leading to a higher likelihood of quitting smoking.
Researchers discovered a new target for future colon cancer treatments, a molecule involved in 85% of colon cancer cases. CTBP's accumulation in tumor cells with APC mutations leads to low retinoic acid production, causing improper cell development.
The Burmese junta's inadequate response to HIV, TB, malaria, and avian flu has led to weakened laboratory infrastructure and a lack of skilled personnel. This hinders the country's ability to effectively control these diseases, with high rates of infection and rising resistance reported.
A new study found that postmenopausal women who exercise regularly and maintain a healthy weight have lower levels of circulating estrogens, which can fuel breast cancer growth. The research suggests that combining weight control with high physical activity is necessary for keeping estrogen levels at a healthy range.