A recent study found that young men with localized prostate cancer can benefit from external beam radiation therapy, similar to older patients. The study showed no statistically significant differences in survival rates, disease progression, or signs of recurrence between three age groups: under 55, 60-69, and 70 and over.
A study of postmenopausal women found that those taking estrogen for more than 20 years had a significantly increased risk of developing estrogen receptor-positive and progesterone receptor-positive breast cancers. The risk was strongest in those who used estrogen for longer periods.
Researchers discovered that trichothiodystrophy group A (TTDA) is essential for DNA repair by stabilizing TFIIH complex assembly. TTDA's dynamic interaction with TFIIH is crucial for NER, preventing degradation and allowing it to function properly.
Researchers at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia developed a novel lab technique to manipulate human T cells using RNA interference, overcoming previous limitations. The approach successfully silenced genes in 'slippery' immune cells, opening potential avenues for treating HIV and other diseases.
A study by Eelco Wijdicks and his son found that only two out of 30 movies with coma characters showed a reasonably accurate representation. Common inaccuracies include portraying comatose people as suddenly awakening with no physical or mental problems, or showing them with closed eyes only.
A team of scientists has discovered the crucial role of phosphorylation and recombination in the step-wise loss of cohesins during meiosis. This process is essential for accurate chromosome segregation into separate cells. The findings provide significant insights into the intricate mechanisms governing cohesin function.
A large clinical examination found that 185 out of 187 women returned to menstruation within 90 days of stopping a non-cyclic oral contraceptive. The study results suggest that women can expect a quick return to menses after discontinuing daily oral contraception.
Park Grass study demonstrates the value of long-term experiments in ecological studies, revealing new insights into plant biodiversity, competition between plants, and climate change effects. The experiment has inspired new ecological theory and has helped ecologists recognize its importance.
Researchers at UCLA have discovered how the drug Ro15-4513 binds to specific receptors in the brain to block alcohol's effects on motor coordination. This breakthrough may lead to the development of sober-up pills, alcohol addiction medications, and treatments that harness the beneficial effects of moderate alcohol consumption.
A Mayo Clinic study reveals that comas are often grossly misrepresented in movies, with inaccurate depictions of patients' appearances and care. The researchers propose solutions to improve accuracy in film portrayals, including collaborations between screenwriters and neurologists.
Researchers discovered a novel gene linked to juvenile spinal muscular atrophy with rigidity and dyskinesia (JSRD), characterized by cerebellar defects, poor balance, and mental retardation. The CEP290 gene may control cell division in the cerebellum during human development.
A recent study using diffusion tensor imaging found no significant differences in brain integrity and volume between cannabis smokers and non-smokers. The findings suggest that moderate cannabis use may not have a direct impact on brain structure and integrity, but more research is needed to confirm these results.
Researchers have developed a drug that increases SMN protein levels in SMA patients, improving their quality of life. Another study shows promise for treating X-linked adrenoleukodystrophy (X-ALD) and Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) with valproate and anti-sense molecules.
The Center for Responsible Nanotechnology has published a collection of essays from leading thinkers on the societal implications of molecular manufacturing, a form of advanced nanotechnology. The essays examine both the benefits and risks of this technology, which could revolutionize industries and impact nearly all aspects of society.
Researchers found a gene in obese mice that increases the risk of type 2 diabetes, which could lead to new drug targets and better diagnosis methods for humans. The study provides insight into how insulin-producing cells function and may help clinicians identify individuals at high risk of developing the disease.
Researchers at Ohio State University found that RHA regulates the production of growth-proteins, many of which play a role in cancer, and helps viruses establish infections. The study identifies additional genes that require RHA for translation, shedding light on cell regulation and viral mechanisms.
The DCPP identifies four major health challenges: cardiovascular diseases, HIV/AIDS, influenza, and malaria. The authors recommend adopting cost-effective interventions on a wider scale to tackle these threats.
Researchers have identified NRL as the earliest marker of rod precursors, allowing them to pinpoint the exact time at which rods are formed. This discovery provides a new vantage point for understanding healthy visual system development and raises the possibility of re-directing cell production to stave off eye disease.
A new procedure utilizes plasma-mediated radiofrequency energy to gently remove soft tissue from spinal tumors, reducing damage to healthy tissue. The technique, called Coblation SpineWand, provides pain relief and improved mobility for patients with decreased risk of complications.
Researchers received FDA approval for a nonhormonal contraceptive device that blocks sperm in the vas deferens, aiming to provide a long-term and reversible method. The Intra Vas Device has shown effectiveness in preliminary studies, with men citing benefits such as avoiding hormonal side effects.
Scientists have made significant breakthroughs in understanding how proteins are transported across cell membranes, a process fundamental to all living organisms. The findings could lead to new insights into the treatment of type-2 diabetes and other diseases.
Researchers deciphered the signaling pathway for a key class of steroid hormones that regulates growth and development in plants, enabling potential manipulation of plant stature. This breakthrough could lead to broader implications for urban forestry, crop development, and agricultural practices.
NDRI researchers studied non-injecting heroin users transitioning to injection, finding it's not universal and influenced by individual characteristics and social networks. The study highlights the importance of understanding these factors to prevent infectious diseases like HIV, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C.
Researchers have identified a novel protein called JHDM2A that plays a key role in gene activation mediated by the androgen receptor, a protein responding to testosterone and dihydrotestosterone. This discovery has implications for prostate cancer treatment, as lowering androgen levels can shrink or slow cancer growth.
A study comparing therapeutic communities in the US, China, and Thailand will examine client and program characteristics to understand treatment effectiveness. The research aims to advance substance abuse treatment services globally by developing a standardized model.
A new study by Harvard Medical School researchers found that visual stimulus turns up the expression of some genes and turns down others, shaping the brain. The study identified distinct sets of genes that respond to visual input at different ages, suggesting a more holistic view of gene function in neural development.
Researchers at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory have identified a gene that promotes both disease resistance and pollen development in rice. The xa13 allele, found to be resistant to bacterial leaf blight, has a surprising positive effect on plant fertility.
Researchers at Rutgers University duplicated Martian razorback shapes using statically charged sand grains on acrylic. Meanwhile, DNA molecules and carbon nanotubes can convert rotational motion to linear translation, potentially solving a crucial problem in micromachine parts.
Researchers from University of North Carolina Health Care and N.C. State University develop a vaccine that protects animals from chancroid, a sexually transmitted disease that can enhance HIV transmission. The study suggests that a chancroid vaccine could be relatively easy to develop and may help reduce HIV transmission in Africa.
A novel approach to epilepsy surgery in young children with tuberous sclerosis has shown promising results, with 17 of 25 patients freed from seizures after a multi-stage brain operation. The procedure involves multiple surgeries to remove seizure-causing tissue, and may improve developmental outcomes for affected children.
Researchers have identified alveolar type I cells as potential diagnostic markers for acute lung injury. The study's findings suggest that these cells may play a crucial role in the development of pulmonary diseases.
Reddy's study found a selective loss of both presynaptic and postsynaptic proteins in AD patients' brains, highlighting the need for further investigation into synaptic damage. The award recognizes his work on understanding molecular and cellular bases of neurodegenerative diseases.
The National Institutes of Health (NIH) has launched a $71 million effort to investigate rare diseases affecting fewer than 200,000 persons in the US. The Clinical Research Consortium Network (RDCRN) aims to develop personalized treatments and prevent complications through genetic research.
A study by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons found that liposuction patients who maintained a healthy diet and exercise reported significant weight loss and clothing size reduction. The majority of patients lost an average of five to 10 pounds in less than six months, with 55% reporting a three-dress-size decrease.
The University of Washington has licensed its innovative cardiovascular software, CASCADE, to VPDiagnostics. The technology helps clinicians identify 'vulnerable' plaque, which is linked to heart attack and stroke, providing a powerful tool for researchers to study atherosclerosis.
Researchers at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute have developed blood-compatible nanoscale materials using heparin composites or coatings. The composite heparin membrane with nanopores can filter blood and maintain its flow, potentially eliminating the need for systemic administration of heparin during kidney dialysis.
Researchers propose using switchgrass as a supplement to corn to make ethanol, ensuring affordable fuel for distributors and consumers. The study found that cellulosic ethanol from dry switchgrass can deliver 16% ethanol fuel to all US consumers, potentially leading to significant decreases in gasoline prices.
Researchers have identified a stomach receptor for Helicobacter pylori, a common gut bacteria that causes peptic ulcers and gastric cancer. The discovery suggests that drugs targeting this receptor could prevent or treat these diseases.
Rutgers-Newark Chemistry Professor Elena Galoppini and her team have received a $1.3 million NSF grant to develop new solar cells that harness organic materials and nanoparticles. The research aims to create more efficient methods of converting sunlight into electricity.
Researchers found that blocking the H1 histamine receptor can effectively reduce allergic lung responses and alleviate symptoms of hay fever. The study suggests this approach could provide new treatment options for individuals suffering from allergies.
Researchers have discovered that meteorites contain isotopes of nitrogen and hydrogen that are similar to those found in interplanetary dust particles. This suggests that the parent bodies of these meteorites, such as comets, formed in the interstellar medium and were not severely processed by the inner solar system.
Scientists discovered massive sand dunes on Saturn's moon Titan, formed by tidal winds and unique atmospheric conditions. The dunes, similar to those in Namibian Deserts, suggest that Titan's atmosphere can create surface winds powerful enough to sculpt sand.
Scientists have identified a key player in gene silencing, the protein HDA6, which removes acetyl groups from histones and modifies DNA. This discovery sheds new light on epigenetic mechanisms, potentially leading to breakthroughs in understanding tumor growth, blood disorders, and other diseases.
Researchers identify key factors that contribute to the amplification and transmission of West Nile Virus, including drought-induced conditions and specific mosquito species. By understanding these local conditions, control strategies can be devised to prevent the spread of the disease.
A new study found that high plasma folate levels are associated with an increased risk of twin births after in-vitro fertilization (IVF), particularly when two embryos are transferred. The study suggests that limiting folic acid intake may help reduce the incidence of multiple births while maintaining livebirth rates.
Researchers found a molecular mechanism that regulates careless DNA polymerases, preventing excessive mutations and cancer risk. The p53 and p21 proteins act as supervisors, controlling the careless enzymes' activities.
Research reveals a previously unknown role for histamine receptors in asthma, suggesting that blocking these receptors could alleviate symptoms. Additionally, a novel peptide inhibitor has been discovered to prevent bone loss in osteoporosis by targeting the RANK/TNF pathway.
On a landmark 20-day Atlantic cruise, scientists cataloged 500 species of tiny zooplankton, including new discoveries. The expedition, part of the Census of Marine Life initiative, aimed to illuminate these essential life forms in the ocean's lower layers.
Researchers develop novel nanoscale architectures using spin-wave buses for efficient interconnectivity and low power consumption. The breakthrough enables the design of fully interconnected networks of processors on a single chip, overcoming current limitations in spintronic architectures.
Researchers at Scripps Research Institute determined the x-ray structure of EmrD, a multidrug transporter protein in E. coli, which could help understand its mechanism and develop new drugs. The study revealed an internal cavity composed primarily of hydrophobic residues that contribute to drug specificity.
A new method called microCT-based virtual histology allows scientists to quickly examine large numbers of mouse embryos with different genetic mutations or damage from toxic chemicals. This enables them to determine the normal function of many genes faster than existing methods, improving drug safety and efficacy.
A neurobiology study found that dread influences human decision-making by activating the brain's pain network and attention centers. The researchers discovered two types of individuals: mild and extreme dreaders, who differed in their brain activity patterns.
The new movies released by NASA's Cassini mission provide a realistic experience of the Titan landing. The images taken by Huygens' Descent Imager/Spectral Radiometer (DISR) during its plunge into Titan's atmosphere have been converted into movie format, showcasing the probe's descent and the changes it observed in the environment.
A Rutgers-Newark chemistry professor has been awarded the Alfred P. Sloan Fellowship for his groundbreaking research on multifunctional Lewis acids, which could lead to new materials for display technology. The fellowship is a significant milestone in his young career, following his recent National Science Foundation Career Award.
Dr. Jin's study focuses on the role of oxidative stress in atherosclerosis, a process that speeds up hardening of arteries in Type 2 diabetes patients. His research may lead to new drugs preventing cardiovascular disease in diabetic patients.
Five Spanish hospitals are participating in a phase III trial for an H5N1 influenza pandemic vaccine, alongside countries such as Germany, Holland, and France. The vaccine uses fractionated viral proteins and an adjuvant to stimulate the immune system, with the goal of improving vaccine production strategies.
Researchers at Washington University in St. Louis and Stanford University have created a mutant photosynthetic reaction center that passes electrons along an alternative pathway with a high yield of 70 percent. This breakthrough advances the understanding of photosynthesis, a crucial process for plant energy production.
Researchers analyzed 50 patients' routine CT studies, finding additional lesions detected through simultaneous review of transverse and coronal images. The study suggests combining different CT views can benefit patients by detecting more findings and improving radiologist confidence.
The H5N1 virus poses a significant threat, prompting researchers to revisit studies of influenza A viruses. The immune system response to H5N1 can be catastrophic, with a 'cytokine storm' causing rapid death. Understanding the battle between the immune system and influenza A viruses holds promise for better therapies and vaccines.
The Broad Institute scientists will survey DNA of 50,000 individuals using large-scale genotyping technologies and advanced informatics to highlight genetic differences in specific genes. The project aims to accelerate the pace of identifying risk factors and genetic variants associated with human diseases.