Researchers detected a novel virus, XMRV, in human prostate tumors with two copies of the RNASEL gene mutation. The study validates the use of DNA-hunting 'virus chip' technology to discover previously unknown viruses and potentially uncover new viral causes for disease.
A study at Rice University found that brain activity differs between merged and unmerged dialect groups when hearing similar sounds. This suggests that the merged-dialect group processes the words differently, relying on explicit memory for previous visual stimuli.
Despite growing concern about avian flu, most Americans do not expect a widespread outbreak in humans in the US within the next year. However, many respondents would take precautions to reduce their risk of exposure and report being concerned about the potential economic disruption caused by such an outbreak.
Researchers have discovered consistent genetic differences in the southern house mosquito, explaining the geographical distribution of disease-transmitting strains. The study found that different strains of the mosquito are responsible for serious diseases like elephantiasis and West Nile virus.
A recent study published in Anesthesiology found that xenon was administered safely to patients undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting, showing its potential as a neuroprotectant. The discovery could lead to new treatments for conditions such as strokes and brain injuries, where nerve damage is a major concern.
A study of over 2,371 adolescent girls found that soda consumption nearly tripled while milk intake decreased by over 25% between ages 9-19. This shift is linked to increased risk of osteoporosis and weight gain due to the lack of nutritional value in sodas.
A new study finds that meetings can negatively impact employee well-being for those with high 'accomplishment striving', but positively affect them for those with low striving. Meetings also boost the well-being of individuals who view them as a way to structure their day or network.
Researchers analyzed over 25,000 protein-protein interactions to dispel old notions of what's important about them. The study identified 36 previously unknown interactions and showed that proteins encoded by genes mutated in inherited disorders interact with known disorder-causing proteins.
The Maintainer's Electronic Performance Support System (MEPSS) is a software developed by the Georgia Institute of Technology to help military aircraft maintainers work more efficiently. The system provides access to technical information, parts lists, and troubleshooting tips, allowing technicians to diagnose and repair issues quickly.
Using polarized light, NASA scientist Peter Wasilewski analyzes the colors and patterns in ice crystals to determine their type and consistency for various Olympic sports. He also examines snowflake shapes and forms to understand how they affect performance.
A computer model developed by Johns Hopkins researchers could help produce medications that regulate immune response levels, potentially treating septic shock, cancer, lupus, and rheumatoid arthritis. The study focused on how a protein molecule called tumor necrosis factor triggers an immune response.
Research reveals a novel pathway involving vitamin D that helps human macrophages kill TB bacilli, explaining why people of African descent are more vulnerable to the disease. Vitamin D levels vary significantly among populations due to melanin's impact on UV light absorption.