Researchers at Stanford University are advancing single-molecule microscopy, enabling real-time observation of individual molecules in living cells. This technology has the potential to reveal new processes inside living cells and provide insights into diseases such as cancer and neurological disorders.
Scientists have developed a new technique to detect uranium in contaminated soil by freezing the sample and blasting it with an ultraviolet laser. This method, known as cryogenic fluorescence spectroscopy, allows for sharper resolution of spectral fingerprints and detection of different forms of uranium.
Florida Tech associate professor Dr. Jean-Paul Pinelli has received a $300,000 National Science Foundation grant to develop a wireless sensor network monitoring wind impacts on structures. The three-year research project will provide full-scale data on wind-induced structural stress during hurricanes.
A study published in JAMA found that recent syncope, QTc interval duration, and sex are significant independent predictors of cardiac arrest and sudden death in adolescents with LQTS. The study identified nearly 12 times the risk for life-threatening events among patients with 1 syncopal episode in the last 2 years.
Researchers at Washington University School of Medicine successfully transplanted pig pancreatic primordia into rats with type 2 diabetes, curing the condition without the need for immune suppression drugs. The approach, similar to one that cured type 1 diabetes in previous studies, uses embryonic cells to produce insulin.
Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center discovered that a natural stress hormone corticosterone can decrease the fearful response associated with reliving traumatic memories in mice. The study showed that this hormone enhances new memories competing with fearful memories, thereby decreasing their negative emotional significance.
Researchers have discovered that the Black-Bone Silky Fowl has significantly higher carnosine levels than other chicken breeds, which may contribute to its long-standing use in traditional Chinese medicine. The study found that carnosine makes up 0.45% of the muscle tissue in Black-Bones, compared to 0.22% in White Plymouth Rocks.
Researchers have found that Thermatoga neapolitana bacteria can produce hydrogen efficiently in a moderately low-oxygen environment. This breakthrough could enable the large-scale production of hydrogen from agricultural resources, paving the way for a clean energy future.
University of Pittsburgh professor Goetz Veser has created a safer alternative to traditional reactors by designing microreactors that can handle explosive reactions without explosions. These reactors use platinum catalysts and silicon chips with tiny channels to control the reaction and minimize pollutants like nitrogen oxides.
Researchers at Brown University have developed a method to create plastic replicas of real cells, which can support cell growth and potentially be used in laboratories and hospitals. The replicas could help scientists understand nerve growth and repair damaged tissue, and may eventually be used to regenerate nerves in patients.
Scientists at the University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston have determined the precise structure of the VEE virus protein required for replication. This achievement marks an important step toward developing effective drug therapies against the virus, which can cause widespread infections and death in Central and South America.
A new five-year study will determine whether biweekly physician visits and injectable drugs can improve medication compliance among schizophrenia patients. Researchers are comparing the effectiveness of injectable risperidone microspheres to standard oral antipsychotics.
UT Southwestern researchers found that blocking tumor necrosis factor, an inflammatory molecule, reduces dopamine neuron death in rats with Parkinson's disease. The study suggests that TNF-dependent inflammation may contribute to the progression of the disease.
Researchers at Virginia Tech are developing novel polymers that incorporate DNA base pairs, resulting in enhanced elasticity and self-healing capabilities. These biobased materials have potential applications in various industries, including automotive and biomedical sectors.
The American Society for Therapeutic Radiology and Oncology has awarded $240,000 in grants to four young cancer researchers. The recipients, Andy J. Minn, Roberto Diaz, Max Diehn, and Aaron C. Spalding, will use the funding to conduct research in radiation oncology, biology, physics, or outcomes research.
The study identifies two techniques for combating spam: improving Internet routing infrastructure security and developing algorithms to identify botnets. The researchers found that network-level properties, such as route hijacking, can be used to identify spammers and improve spam filtering.
A promising new TB drug candidate, SQ109, has been cleared for Phase I clinical trials following a successful public-private partnership between NIAID and Sequella. Developed with extensive support from NIAID, SQ109 holds potential for treating the virtually untreatable disease XDR-TB.
Researchers at Cardiff University have found a link between low nitric oxide levels and increased risk of heart attack and stroke in patients taking NSAIDs. Lower nitric oxide levels may make individuals more susceptible to cardiovascular side effects from these medications.
A new animal-detection system, tested in Yellowstone National Park, shows promise in reducing wildlife-vehicle collisions. The system detected elk with high accuracy and could be cost-effective in areas with frequent large animal-vehicle collisions.
A new study by the University of Rochester Medical Center found that genetic defects, particularly those related to Long QT Syndrome (LQTS), are significant risk factors for sudden cardiac death in teenagers. The study also identified changes in puberty among teens with LQTS as a predictor of life-threatening events.
Researchers at MIT have developed a new, eco-friendly way to produce iron by molten oxide electrolysis (MOE), which eliminates greenhouse gases and generates only oxygen. The process has the potential to increase iron productivities up to 10 times that of aluminum production.
The American College of Chest Physicians, along with the American College of Occupational and Environmental Medicine and the National Sleep Foundation, has released updated recommendations for screening and managing obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) among commercial motor vehicle (CMV) operators. The guidelines aim to identify drivers at h...
A large population study found that higher green tea consumption was linked to lower risk of death from all causes and cardiovascular disease, but not cancer. The researchers suggest that clinical trials are needed to confirm the protective effect of green tea on mortality.
A study by researchers at Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center found that regular aerobic exercise significantly reduces markers of increased colon-cancer risk in men. Men who exercised for four hours a week or more saw a significant decrease in cellular proliferation, which is associated with colon cancer.
Study suggests that statins may be beneficial for preventing complications of metabolic syndrome, a condition characterized by low-grade inflammation and insulin resistance. The researchers found marked reductions in inflammatory biomarkers and improvements in vascular health in patients treated with statins.
Researchers used a high-performance computer to create a simulation of the 9/11 attack on the World Trade Center's North Tower, revealing the destruction of nearly 25% of the building's columns. The simulation aims to improve understanding of aircraft collisions and structural damage, with potential applications in designing safer buil...
A team-based approach to treating depression in primary care significantly reduces suicidal thoughts in older adults, with patients receiving IMPACT care being half as likely to report suicidal thoughts even up to 12 months after treatment. The study also shows improved physical functioning and quality of life for patients.
Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine have found that deleting an inflammation enzyme in mice slowed the development of atherosclerosis. The study suggests that a new class of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may benefit the heart and reduce its risk of disease.
Researchers from Massachusetts General Hospital successfully tracked transplanted pancreatic islets using MRI, revealing complex factors behind islet loss and potential causes of rejection. The study could lead to improved outcomes for patients with type 1 diabetes.
The UK e-Science Programme has been recognized for its innovative grid implementation, investing over $450 million in R&D and deployment. The program enables collaborative working by making computing power accessible across networks.
Researchers found that nicotine patches reduced depression symptoms in nonsmoking participants, possibly by stimulating brain chemicals. The study suggests manipulating nicotine's effects could lead to new treatments for depression.
A new study found that giving parents a 'wait-and-see' approach for treating ear infections significantly reduced the use of antibiotics, with little difference in outcomes for the children. The approach also interrupted the cycle of antibiotic prescription, reducing adverse effects and costs.
A new study finds that concentrating antiretroviral drugs in urban areas could reduce new infections by up to 46%, but would violate basic ethical principles of treatment equity. The approach would also exacerbate urban/rural healthcare disparities.
Recent studies have found that levels of toxic metals in New Orleans soil samples were not significantly higher than before Hurricane Katrina. In fact, some pollutants may have decreased due to natural processes. Researchers are now focusing on restoring the Gulf Coast's resilience through science and engineering.
Accelerating weight loss before dementia onset is linked to Alzheimer's disease, according to a study of 449 healthy adults. Those who lost weight weighed about eight pounds less than those without the disease.
Researchers have developed a biodegradable wipe that can detect bacteria, viruses, and other biohazards using nanofibers containing antibodies. The new process could be used by anyone to rapidly uncover pathogens in contaminated areas, providing a fast indication of whether a biohazard is present.
Researchers at Cardiff University have been awarded £800,000 to commercially develop a protein-based therapeutic for treating infectious diseases. The 'Resolution Therapeutics' approach aims to enhance the body's natural defence mechanisms to promote infection clearance and reduce inflammation.
Researchers at Salk Institute discover that cancer cells use NF-kB survival factor to stay alive when attacked by chemotherapeutic drugs. This finding suggests a strategy to enhance the effectiveness of rapamycin-based therapies by inhibiting NF-kB signaling.
A new screening tool called the pedigree assessment tool (PAT) effectively identifies women at risk for hereditary breast cancer, outperforming another commonly used tool in assessing individual patient risk. The PAT was 100% sensitive in identifying high-risk patients with potential BRCA mutations.
A study of 120 older adults found significant memory problem complainants had reduced gray matter density in the brain, even without a diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease or mild cognitive impairment. This suggests that memory complaints may indicate an early 'pre-MCI' stage of dementia.
A new study finds that human-caused increases in greenhouse gas concentrations are primarily responsible for rising ocean temperatures in key hurricane breeding grounds of the Atlantic and Pacific oceans. The research used 22 different computer models to show a strong link between warming sea surface temperatures and human activities.
A systematic review of international research found that there is no clear difference in the effectiveness of treatment provided by teaching and non-teaching hospitals. However, the researchers suggest that specific diseases may have different outcomes, and their findings will be useful for training doctors while providing the best car...
Researchers identified eight distinct regions in the US with varying life expectancies, with gaps between best-off and worst-off groups exceeding 15 years. Chronic diseases and injuries were found to be major contributors to these disparities.
New research suggests that human-caused increases in greenhouse gases are directly linked to warming of tropical Atlantic and Pacific oceans, which contributes to hurricane intensity. The study used computer models to analyze SST changes in smaller hurricane formation regions.
Brookhaven National Laboratory researchers are exploring the use of ionic liquids for nuclear fuel reprocessing to mitigate the risk of unintended chain reactions. By incorporating boron-containing ions, these liquid salts can hold up to a hundred times more dissolved plutonium before reaching critical thresholds.
Regenerative medicine holds promise for affordable treatments and offsetting donor shortages, particularly for diabetes, heart disease, and infectious diseases. The study prioritizes 10 applications, including novel insulin replacement methods, regenerating failed heart muscle, and engineered immune cells.
A six-year study found high progression rates of diabetic retinopathy in African Americans with type 1 diabetes, linked to poor glycemic control and high blood pressure. The study highlights the need for improved medical care and regular eye exams to detect vision-threatening diabetic retinopathy.
Intraocular pressure increased in 90% of weightlifters during exercises, with higher pressures observed when holding breath. The study suggests that weightlifting could be a potential risk factor for normal-tension glaucoma.
A team of researchers at Cornell University has developed a biodegradable absorbent wipe that can detect bacteria, viruses, and other biohazards using sensitive nanofibers. The innovative material is inexpensive, easy to use, and can provide fast indication of contaminant presence, enabling quick disinfection and retesting.
A long-term study found that elderly participants who developed mild dementia showed a doubling of their average weight loss rate one year prior to diagnosis. Researchers believe this link may be useful for detecting Alzheimer's disease earlier.
Researchers at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln are developing fabrics from agricultural waste products, including chicken feathers and rice straw. These fibers have properties similar to wool and cotton, making them suitable for conventional clothing and textiles.
Researchers have developed a live, attenuated H5N1 avian flu vaccine that protected mice and ferrets from deadly infection with naturally occurring H5N1 flu viruses. The vaccine demonstrated cross-protection against different emerging H5N1 virus strains.
Researchers at Thomas Jefferson University found that GRK2 protein levels are elevated in patients with failing hearts compared to those with normal heart function. The study suggests that GRK2 could be a biomarker for heart failure and potentially predict patient response to treatment.
Johns Hopkins researchers create a technique to release biomolecules and nanoparticles from a tiny gold launch pad using an electric pulse, enabling controlled release of medication or materials.
Researchers develop nanotubes to enhance adult stem cells' ability to differentiate into neurons in stroke-damaged rat brains. Additionally, nanoparticles promote formation of blood vessels and boost cardiovascular function after heart attacks.
A recent study by Georgia Institute of Technology Professor Kenneth Knoespel explores the intersection of Sir Isaac Newton's alchemical practice and his work in economics, showing how his ideas on value were transformed into a systematic structure of social value.
Researchers found that severely impaired patients taking rivastigmine showed significant improvement in attention and verbal memory test scores compared to placebo-treated patients. Rivastigmine was also found to be safe and well-tolerated with common side effects including nausea and dizziness.
The National Science Foundation has extended funding for Rice University's Center for Biological and Environmental Nanotechnology through 2011. The center, founded in 2001, is dedicated to studying the interaction between nanomaterials and living organisms and ecosystems.
A study funded by the Economic and Social Research Council finds that childless women, mothers of five or more children, teenage mothers, and those with short birth intervals have higher risks of death and poor health. Partnership and parenting experiences are crucial in influencing later life health.
A study published in PLoS Medicine found a possible association between the use of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and severe violence in a small number of individuals. The authors analyzed data from various sources, including prescription-event monitoring studies and legal cases, to examine this potential link.