Scientists at the University of California, Santa Barbara, have created a new lipid molecule that delivers therapeutic genes directly to cells, potentially helping inherited diseases and cancers. The novel molecule has a tree-shaped headgroup and displays superior DNA-delivery properties.
Research reveals that differences in overall muscle efficiency cannot be explained by variations in individual mitochondria's ability to convert food energy into ATP. Instead, the findings suggest that ATP usage within the muscle plays a crucial role in determining efficiency.
Researchers at VIB and VTT have developed a technology that increases the production of secondary metabolites in plant cells, allowing for more efficient pharmaceutical production. This innovation has led to the establishment of SoluCel Ltd., a company focused on bringing this technology platform to the market.
A systematic review found that structured forms and checklists can help healthcare professionals record child protection issues more effectively. Certain types of training also improved knowledge and attitudes towards child protection, boosting the speed of response to concerns.
A new DNA 'fingerprinting' technique separates hemp from marijuana by analyzing genetic markers. This method has the potential to distinguish marijuana varieties and aid in establishing origins of seized drugs, with implications for drug distribution networks and criminal defenses.
The STAR*D study found that switching to a new medication and augmenting the initial SSRI were effective treatment options for depression. The study showed that all three medications switched to, despite having different mechanisms of action, appeared useful options for treating depression following failure on the first SSRI.
Researchers found that donepezil significantly improved cognitive function and daily activities in patients with severe Alzheimer's disease. The study, published in The Lancet, showed a 20% reduction in dementia symptoms and an increase in quality of life for patients on the treatment.
Pooled data from clinical trials showed significantly fewer patients taking Nexium developed an ulcer compared to those on placebo. The study demonstrated reduced stomach ulcer risk in patients at high risk for complications associated with NSAID use.
A study published in Nature found that cells deep within the human respiratory system have surface molecules that allow the avian flu virus to enter and infect cells, but not easily transmit between humans. The discovery provides a possible explanation for why bird flu is rarely transmitted among humans.
A study published in Annals of Surgery found that PET imaging was 88% accurate in identifying patients without disease after chemoradiation. This technology has the potential to change clinical practice by helping some patients avoid surgery.
Pitt researchers identify critical brain area regulating dopamine function, which could explain disruptions in normal behaviors and psychiatric disorders like schizophrenia and drug addiction. The discovery provides new insights into the brain's reward system and its role in modulating goal-directed behavior.
A recent study in Nature explores the role of the protein CHIP in cell response to stress. The research found that when proteins are misfolded during stress, a complex process is triggered to remove them.
Research found that beta carotene slows the decline in lung power, a critical indicator of lung function, associated with aging. The study showed that higher levels of beta carotene and vitamin E in the blood reduced the rate of decline in lung function, particularly in smokers.
New research reveals Pin1 enzyme plays a key role in preventing Alzheimer's disease by regulating APP cleavage and amyloid beta production. The study establishes a direct link between amyloid plaques and tau tangles, two abnormal structures associated with the disease.
The study found that patients receiving the combination of paclitaxel and bevacizumab had a significantly improved progression-free survival of 11.4 months, compared to 6.11 months with paclitaxel alone. This trend also suggested improved overall survival in patients treated with the new drug combination.
A breakthrough project in the Netherlands dramatically improved patient care for breast cancer patients by implementing structured best practices. The initiative reduced waiting times to under a week and increased pre-operative multidisciplinary consultations, leading to more clear-cut diagnoses and fewer unnecessary operations.
Researchers from Imperial College London found that quality of life increases between ages 50-84, particularly through volunteering and social connections. Factors such as long-standing illness and financial difficulties reduce quality of life, while trusting relationships and safe living environments boost it.
A 12-month supervised exercise program reduced severe menopausal symptoms by a quarter and improved quality of life in postmenopausal women. The study also found significant improvements in physical and psychological functioning, as well as positive state of mind, among the exercise group compared to those who did not participate.
The COSMIC database has expanded to include data on 538 genes and 124,367 tumours, highlighting the need for further research to uncover additional breast cancer susceptibility genes. Scientists believe that many somatic mutations are caused by a combination of faulty gene and environmental factors.
A recent study published in Health Communication found that participation in computer-mediated support groups improved emotional well-being and reduced negative mood among breast cancer patients. The analysis of text messages revealed a higher percentage of insightful words associated with these benefits.
Researchers are analyzing Stardust samples to study the structure and chemistry of cometary material, providing clues about the solar system's history. The team is using advanced spectroscopic techniques to identify organic compounds and isotopic signatures in the ancient grains.
A recent study of over 8,000 men found that smoking was significantly associated with an increased risk of erectile dysfunction. Those who smoked up to 20 cigarettes per day were 24% more likely to experience difficulties maintaining an erection, while those who smoked more than a pack a day were 39% more likely.
A new study found that genetic variations lowering LDL cholesterol levels can significantly reduce coronary heart disease risk. People with these variations were eight times less likely to develop heart disease than those without them.
A recent study found that low levels of LDL cholesterol, even in individuals with high-risk factors, can dramatically reduce the incidence of coronary events. The analysis identified three forms of a gene known as PCSK9 associated with significant reductions in plasma levels of LDL cholesterol.
The typical pregnancy duration has decreased to 39 weeks, leading to a rise in late preterm births. Late preterm infants face increased risks of breathing problems, feeding difficulties, and reduced brain development compared to full-term babies.
MIT researchers have made a breakthrough in creating morphing vehicles by utilizing rechargeable batteries. The team's innovative approach involves using the expansion and contraction of solid compounds to actuate large-scale structures, allowing for seamless shape changes.
Scientists have found that macromolecular carbon in Martian meteorites is always associated with magnetite, a mineral catalyst for its formation. This association raises hopes that the meteorite's carbon complexes could be evidence of non-biological synthesis of organic molecules on Mars.
Researchers at the University of Exeter have identified a single gene crucial to the rice-killing fungus's ability to infect plants. The discovery could lead to the development of effective chemicals to combat the devastating disease, which affects half of the world's population and kills enough rice to feed 60 million people annually.
Researchers found that 10-month-olds attach more importance to the object's interest than a speaker's attention. Parents can use this insight to start conversations with their infants, increasing language learning speed.
The American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) offers several awards and fellowships to support promising cancer scientists, including the AACR-GERTRUDE B. ELION CANCER RESEARCH AWARD, CAREER DEVELOPMENT AWARDS, and AACR-Cancer Research and Prevention Foundation Career Development Awards in Translational or Prevention Lung Cancer ...
A new study found that the Pin1 enzyme helps protect against age-related neurodegeneration and establishes a link between amyloid plaques and tau tangles. The researchers discovered that Pin1 regulates APP cleavage and amyloid beta production, preventing plaque formation.
Research on civil servants reveals that high job demands and low workplace support are key factors contributing to sick building syndrome symptoms. Physical building attributes have a small influence on symptoms, suggesting that poor psychosocial conditions play a significant role.
Researchers found that 10-month-old infants can learn two new words in a single session, pairing words with the object they find most interesting. This discovery suggests that babies are actively listening and learning language from birth, highlighting the importance of talking about their interests to aid language development.
Researchers successfully engineered goat cells to silence prion protein genes, achieving over 90% knockdown. This breakthrough raises the possibility of using similar technology in cattle to prevent Mad Cow Disease and other diseases.
A team of Rutgers University researchers has made a breakthrough in finding a microbial approach to clean up MTBE contaminated groundwater. By employing carbon isotope fractionation, the team can identify the key bacteria capable of breaking down MTBE and potentially speed up the process.
Karen Duff, a young British scientist, received the Potamkin Prize for her innovative work on developing transgenic mouse models of age-related human brain diseases. Her research has led to significant advancements in understanding Alzheimer's disease and identifying potential treatments.
Researchers are searching for signs of life on Mars by analyzing the distribution of a specific type of nitrogen in Martian rocks, soil, and water. They found that organisms leave behind unique nitrogen 'fingerprints' on rocks, which could be used to detect biosignatures of past or present life.
A recent study published in The Journal of Physiology reveals that the brain relies on outflow signals to predict limb movement, even when sensory inputs from receptors are blocked. This finding sheds light on how our brains learn to move accurately and provides insight into phantom limb sensations.
Research reveals that social perception plays a significant role in gaze-following behavior among executive monkeys. Low-ranking macaques exhibit faster reaction times to follow the gaze of other monkeys, while high-ranking individuals are more blasé.
A study by Michelle K. Duffy, Christine A. Henle, and Lisa Schurer Lambert found that abusive supervision in the workplace is linked to employee anxiety and depression. The research suggests that improving supervisor fairness may be key to reducing hostility and aggression in the workplace.
Children born preterm show cognitive and motor deficits, while early social environment plays a significant role in development. fMRI scans reveal distinct brain activation patterns related to medical and environmental risks.
A study found that developmentally delayed young children exhibit high levels of stability in their peer interactions, enabling early identification of those at risk for problems. Interventions focusing on promoting peer relationships during the early childhood period are suggested to address these challenges.
Researchers analyze sulfur isotopes in rocks to track oxygen levels, revealing a raucous period of intense volcanic activity that pushed the atmosphere towards an oxygen-rich state. This breakthrough provides new insights into the emergence of oxygen on Earth and its impact on climate.
African-American children living in poverty face a significantly higher risk of high lead exposure and related cognitive impairments. Strict enforcement of lead abatement policies can reduce future poisonings, but compliance varies widely by state.
Researchers found that polymeric ubiquitin interacts with tandemly arranged UIM on endocytic adaptors in clathrin coated pits. High affinity interactions mediate the internalization of ubiquitinated cargo.
Researchers extracted a 3 km long ice core from Antarctica's plateau to study the Earth's climate over the last 740,000 years. The team found that as sea ice extent declined, salt levels rose due to brine expulsion, while dust levels increased in cold times, suggesting South America was drier or windier.
A new automatic system at the Ann Arbor VA hospital kept eight patients with serious scan results from falling through the cracks, including five who had cancer. The system, which uses electronic tags to alert doctors to potential problems, was developed after a similar issue occurred at the institution.
Researchers at Indiana University found that plant species can be just as easily divided into categories as animal species, contrary to previous claims. The study also revealed that many bird and fish species successfully hybridize in the wild, while ferns are less likely to produce fertile hybrids.
A study published in The Lancet found that using chlorhexidine on newborns' umbilical cords significantly reduces the risk of infection and mortality. In contrast, traditional dry cord care practices associated with increased risks of neonatal death were shown to be ineffective.
A study at Oregon Health & Science University found that stroke patients who received electrical stimulation therapy showed significant improvement in hand mobility and strength compared to those receiving rehabilitation alone. The therapy, which induces neural plasticity, helps patients regain lost functions.
Researchers used PET scans to evaluate response to chemoradiation in esophageal cancer patients. The study found that PET was 88% accurate at identifying patients without disease, potentially changing clinical practice and allowing some patients to avoid surgery.
A UC Davis study with mice found that even low levels of thimerosal can alter dendritic cell function and lead to abnormal immune responses. The study's findings suggest a link between thimerosal exposure and immune system dysfunction, potentially shedding light on the immunotoxic effects of this common preservative.
Researchers at Karolinska Institutet have identified a short peptide molecule that can vaccinate and protect against the spread of tumours from different tissues, including melanoma, colon cancer, lymphoma, and fibrosarcoma. The study points towards new possible ways of developing a treatment for advanced tumour diseases.
TB researchers hope to find novel ways of killing the organism using a protective protein called heme oxygenase 1. The project aims to pinpoint the role of alcoholism in the global epidemic by studying HIV- and tuberculosis-infected patients in India.
Researchers created a simple biophysical model of an axon that reproduced catastrophic oxidative stress-induced collapse, characteristic of neurodegenerative diseases. The study also revealed the role of free radicals and antioxidants in axon degradation.
Researchers found that low-dose aspirin prevents platelet clumping in both sexes, with women's platelets reacting more strongly to aspirin before treatment. The study suggests that further research is needed to determine who benefits from aspirin and under what circumstances it works.
The IceCube project is a collaborative effort of over 30 scientific organizations, including the US National Science Foundation and more than a dozen US universities. The $272-million detector will use 4,200 light-sensing modules to sample high-energy neutrinos from space, excluding types like those from the sun.
Researchers at the University of Toronto developed a new material, periodic mesoporous organosilica (PMO), that acts as a better insulator for microelectronics. The PMO film would take up less room than conventional silica glass and allow components to shrink further, enabling smaller and more efficient devices.
The UCSB research team will utilize recent breakthroughs to control the expression of any gene, including those that contribute to serious diseases such as cancer. Funding from the W. M. Keck Foundation will support six leading scientists in developing microRNA-based interventions.
Researchers found no association between mammography and increased risk of breast cancer in women with BRCA mutations. The study suggests that screening may be safe for this high-risk group, but prospective studies are needed to confirm the results.