Researchers have successfully induced differentiated adult cells to behave like embryonic stem cells using only four factors. This breakthrough enables the creation of pluripotent cells directly from a patient's own cells, potentially revolutionizing the treatment of diseases such as Parkinson's disease and diabetes.
Scientists at Johns Hopkins have identified a previously unknown way the trypanosome parasite that causes African sleeping sickness makes fatty acids. The discovery of this unique biochemical pathway could lead to the development of new drugs to treat the illness.
The Microbe experiment on board the space shuttle Atlantis will investigate how three common microorganisms adapt to microgravity, with potential benefits for developing new therapeutics and treatments for infectious diseases. The results will help NASA evaluate risks to astronauts on future missions to the moon and Mars.
A global health expert argues that up to seven neglected tropical diseases, including river blindness and trachoma, can be brought under control with increased coverage of existing programs. This could lead to the elimination of infections in some cases and improved health outcomes for millions of people in Africa.
A novel protein, RegIIIgamma, is produced by the intestinal lining to target and destroy bacterial invaders, offering insights into how the intestine maintains friendly relations with symbiotic microbes. The discovery may lead to new treatments for inflammatory bowel disease and improved understanding of probiotics.
Researchers at Columbia University Medical Center have successfully restored normal memory and synaptic function in mice suffering from Alzheimer's disease. By increasing the levels of ubiquitin C-terminal hydrolase L1 (Uch-L1), they were able to improve the animals' ability to create new memories.
The US Geological Survey (USGS) has developed a database and web application called HEDDS to share information on sample collection sites, bird species sampled, and test results. The database provides current information on wild bird sampling for early detection of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in the United States.
A study by Purdue University researcher Ken Ferraro found that women who use religious media resources are more likely to be obese, while men who seek comfort through religion are less likely to be obese. To combat this, religious leaders should encourage physical activity and healthy eating habits.
New fossil evidence reveals plant and insect diversity were out of balance during Paleocene Epoch. Insect predation was low in most areas, but unexpectedly high in two early Paleocene sites, Castle Rock and Mexican Hat.
Scientists at Harvard University have developed nanowire arrays that can detect, stimulate, and inhibit nerve signals along individual axons and dendrites of live mammalian neurons. This breakthrough technology has the potential to revolutionize our understanding of brain activity and signal propagation in neuronal networks.
Researchers found that using budesonide-formoterol as a reliever therapy significantly reduced the risk of severe asthma attacks in patients already on a preventive drug combination. This approach may lead to fewer hospitalizations and improved patient outcomes.
Human cells exposed to high-energy protons and then iron or titanium particles showed a significant increase in anchorage-independent growth, a characteristic of early cancer development. The timing of the particle exposure was critical, with cells responding more strongly when hit by protons first.
Researchers have found that mast cells play a crucial role in regulating the immune system, particularly in maintaining tolerance to transplanted skin. The study revealed that mast cells mediate immune suppression by interacting with regulatory T cells.
A team from the University of California, San Diego has identified the cells and protein responsible for detecting sour taste. The researchers found that each of the five basic tastes is detected by distinct receptors in separate cells, challenging a popular view that different tastes map to specific areas of the tongue.
A large follow-up study of over 50 families has identified more genetic perturbations in Loeys-Dietz Syndrome, providing clearer picture for diagnosis. The study emphasizes the importance of comprehensive clinical evaluations when diagnosing the disease.
Researchers warn that viruses like HIV and influenza can spread from monkeys to humans through contact in settings such as temples, markets, and homes. By taking precautions like using caution around monkeys, following proper wound care, and implementing public health measures, the risk of transmission can be reduced.
Researchers have gained insights into a critical reaction that transforms guanine base into 8-oxo-guanine, leading to cancer development. The reaction involves sodium ions promoting bonding between water molecules and the guanine base.
A new study recruiting up to 2,000 people from the remote Isles of Orkney aims to discover genes that predispose individuals to osteoporosis. The research will utilize a unique population isolated from the UK mainland, allowing for easier tracking and identification of genetic factors.
A US-Australian research team has detected radio pulses from a magnetar star, XTE J1810-197, which is giving off extraordinary radio pulses. The finding links this rare type of star with the much more common 'radio pulsars', reordering our understanding of these neutron stars.
Scientists have identified special proteins that help repair and protect the brain after it has been damaged by a lack of oxygen. Dr Nicole Jones and her team found that these proteins increase during oxygen deprivation, regulating processes like red blood cell production and glucose flow to the brain.
Researchers at the University of Washington have developed a tiny ion pump that can cool small microelectronic components efficiently. The device uses an electrical charge to create a cooling air jet and has been shown to significantly cool an actively heated surface on just 0.6 watts of power.
University of Iowa experts are warning that a commonly prescribed asthma medication combination can be deadly for certain patients. The long-acting asthma drug salmeterol used in combination with an inhaled corticosteroid can worsen asthma symptoms for those who do not need the combination, leading to life-threatening problems.
Men do not adopt a 'female model' of parenthood with part-time work and high levels of child care. Fathers prioritize flexible work arrangements to accommodate family life, rather than reducing their working hours. Current policies may not address fathers' needs for adaptability.
The study's findings suggest that the presence of oxygen in the atmosphere may not have been as absolute as previously thought, with fluctuations occurring over time. The researchers analyzed ancient sediments and found that sulfur isotope ratios did not exhibit abnormal patterns consistent with an oxygen-free atmosphere.
The Biophysical Society has recognized twelve members with its 2007 awards, honoring their outstanding contributions to biophysics. The awardees include Klaus Gawrisch, Ken A. Dill, and Taekjip Ha, who have made significant impacts in fields such as lipid biophysics, single molecule research, and education.
Researchers found that men with lower PSA levels after seven months of hormone therapy had a longer survival rate. Patients with undetectable or low PSA levels lived up to 75 months, while those with higher PSA levels survived for 13 months.
A water filtration technique that combines activated carbon with membrane filters has been found to remove at least 95% of microcystin-lr, a toxin secreted by blue-green algae found in lakes and rivers. The technique outperformed other methods, including ultrafiltration membranes, which struggled to remove the toxin due to its small size.
A team of Rensselaer researchers is working to improve the energy efficiency of green light-emitting diodes (LEDs) by doubling or tripling their power output. By leveraging the piezoelectric effect, they hope to develop a process to make higher-intensity green LEDs that convert electricity into light more efficiently.
Brandeis researchers discovered that cortical inhibition plays a key role in experience-dependent plasticity, with inhibitory networks within the cortex being highly plastic. This finding challenges traditional views on brain development and highlights the importance of targeting inhibitory networks for optimal cognitive growth.
Researchers have created a method to release substances into tumor cells using microcapsules and laser light, which could lead to more targeted cancer treatments. The technique involves heating the polymer shell of the capsule with infrared laser light, causing it to open and releasing its contents.
Researchers identified the cells and receptor responsible for sour taste, a primary gateway in all mammals for detecting spoiled food sources. The PKD2L1 receptor is found in a subpopulation of taste receptor cells on the tongue that do not function for sweet, bitter, or umami taste.
Researchers at Rice University found that single-celled microbes can recognize and preferentially associate with their relatives, directing altruistic behavior towards them. This ability is similar to kin recognition observed in animals and has significant implications for the social evolution of species.
A West Indian manatee has been sighted in various northeastern US waters, including the Hudson River and Cape Cod. Researchers used a manatee photo-identification database to rule out Chessie, a known manatee with distinctive markings, as the current traveler.
Researchers discovered that teens have similar numbers of unprotected sex acts with both casual and main partners, despite using condoms more often with casual partners. This highlights the importance of targeting adolescents' attitudes towards casual sexual partners in HIV intervention programs.
A recent study published in Science found that the number of tree species consumed by rainforest insects is comparable to those in temperate forests. The research, led by University of Minnesota plant biologist George Weiblen, rejects the notion that tropical insects are picky eaters who prefer fewer host plants.
Astronomers are using supercomputers to study the energy levels of high-temperature atoms in space, which hold the key to understanding black holes. The new calculations reduce error rates by a few percent, providing more accurate data for X-ray telescope observations.
Recent studies suggest that protein S14 plays a critical role in driving fat metabolism in breast cancer cells, making it a promising new target for cancer treatment. The protein is required for the activation of genes involved in fat production, and its removal can lead to cancer cell death.
Researchers found a daily dose of 150mg bicalutamide reduced disease progression risk by 44% and overall death risk by 35% compared to radiotherapy alone. This non-castration-based therapy shows similar survival rates, potentially improving quality of life for patients unwilling to undergo castration.
The SAM walker, developed from NASA's cable-compliant technology, aids spinal cord and traumatic brain injury patients in standing and walking. It reduces pressure on legs and allows patients to strengthen their lower body muscles, helping them regain mobility and independence.
The study found a significant decrease in the age-adjusted HSV-2 seroprevalence from 17.0% in 1999-2004 to 21.0% in 1988-1994, with decreases especially concentrated among persons aged 14 to 19 years. The prevalence of genital herpes caused by HSV-1 may be increasing.
A new study published in Annals of Neurology found that Mexican-Americans are more likely to suffer another stroke in the first two years after living through one, and have a significantly higher risk of dying from it. The researchers emphasize the importance of secondary prevention measures for this population.
A randomized trial shows that subcutaneous unfractionated heparin is as effective and safe as low-molecular-weight heparin in treating venous thromboembolism. The study found comparable rates of recurrent thromboembolism and major bleeding between the two groups.
Researchers at Cornell University have developed microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) using carbon fibers, which can bend and vibrate billions of times without breaking. The new display technology has the potential to be incredibly cheap and small enough to be built into cell phones.
Georgia Institute of Technology researchers are exploring the potential of LCP for high-frequency radio applications, antennas, and circuit boards in space. The material's unique structure provides excellent electrical performance, heat resistance, flexibility, and strength, making it a promising candidate for NASA applications.
Three cancer researchers, Asif R. Harsolia, Sandeep S. Hunjan, and Ping Zhang, have won the ASTRO Poster Recognition Award for their exceptional contributions to radiation oncology. Their work demonstrated top-notch science presented at ASTRO's Annual Meeting.
Researchers have identified a gene, TREK-1, linked to depression, breeding mice without this gene showed resistance to the condition. A potential new treatment could be developed based on this discovery.
A new study found inadequate scientific evidence on the best strategies to prevent pressure ulcers, a common condition affecting people with impaired mobility. Researchers suggest more rigorous evaluation is needed for interventions such as repositioning, support surfaces, and skin moisturizing.
Researchers conducted a retrospective study of 31 Dutch SCADD patients and their relatives to describe genetic, biochemical, and clinical characteristics. The study found a birth prevalence of at least 1:50,000, with developmental delay, epilepsy, and hypoglycemia being common symptoms.
A new study found that exposure to polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) in children may lower the effectiveness of vaccines against tetanus and diphtheria. PCB contamination was associated with decreased antibody responses to vaccinations at both 18 months and 7 years old.
A Purdue University study found the Wabash River population of shovelnose sturgeon to be stable, but with concerns over low young fish numbers and potential for population decline. The research informs size and catch limits on the fish set to begin next summer.
A new imaging procedure using intracardiac echocardiography (ICE) provides real-time monitoring of the esophagus during ablation, reducing the risk of esophageal injury. The study involved 152 patients who underwent left atrial ablation for AF and found that ICE could detect lesions on the posterior wall of the heart's left atrium.
The Finnish government prioritized economic and foreign policy goals over addressing wartime emotional trauma, leading to a prolonged recovery period. The post-war era saw ongoing challenges, including reintegrating veterans and supporting affected groups, which were only partially addressed.
Researchers at UNC Health Care have found a way to treat pemphigus vulgaris without shutting off the immune system. They used a known compound to turn off signals that trigger skin damage, preventing blistering and other signs of the disease.
Researchers have successfully bred flood-tolerant California rice by introducing submergence tolerance genes into the crop. This breakthrough allows rice plants to survive short-term floods, benefiting rice farmers globally.
A study led by McMaster University found that subcutaneous injections of unfractionated heparin can work as well as low-molecular weight heparin in treating venous thromboembolism, reducing hospitalization costs. This new treatment approach allows for outpatient care and may save patients up to $675 compared to traditional treatments.
A recent outbreak of corneal infection Fusarium keratitis is associated with the use of a specific contact lens solution, ReNu with MoistureLoc. The study found that users of this product were 20 times more likely to develop the infection compared to non-users.
A study of 5,615 child patients found that age, race, cause of kidney failure, and residual function were associated with short stature. Over one-third of children with kidney disease met the criteria for short stature.
A team of researchers at UC Berkeley created synthetic micro-fibers inspired by geckos' remarkable hairs, which can hold a quarter to a glass slide inclined at an 80-degree angle. The fibers have high friction but low adhesion, making them suitable for applications such as shoe soles and car tires.
Larry J. Shuman, a professor at the University of Pittsburgh School of Engineering, has been recognized as a Fellow of the American Society for Engineering Education (ASEE). He was awarded this distinction after making outstanding contributions to engineering education and technology. Shuman's research focuses on improving the engineer...
A study of over 6,000 teenage school pupils found that one in ten girls engage in deliberate self-harm each year. The research revealed that girls are more likely to self-harm than boys and that self-cutting is a common form of self-harm reported by teenagers.