Researchers estimate that Siberian lakes are releasing five times more methane than previously thought, increasing the present estimate of northern wetland emissions by 10-63%. Methane is being released from thawing permafrost in the form of ancient dead plant material, acting as a 'time bomb' for climate warming.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Kimmel Cancer Center have identified close to 200 mutated genes linked to breast and colon cancer. The genetic code reveals distinct pathways for the development of each cancer type, with some genes crucial for tumor formation. The findings provide a foundation for future comprehensive genetic studies.
A recent study by Erik Trinkaus reveals that modern humans possess twice as many uniquely derived traits than Neandertals, challenging the conventional understanding of human evolution. The research focuses on examining genetic markers in fossil records to better comprehend human ancestry.
A recent study led by the University of Colorado at Boulder and Pennsylvania State University found that over one-third of giant planet systems could have Earth-like planets in habitable zones. These planets, formed through the migration of gas giants, may host oceans several miles deep and potentially support life.
Scientists have redefined the role of plant pores in defense against bacterial pathogens, discovering that stomata can sense danger and respond by shutting down. The study found that some bacteria produce a phytotoxin to reopen shut-down ports, highlighting a key step in the attack.
Researchers discovered that presenilins act as calcium channels, controlling the balance of calcium within cells. This finding may suggest a new avenue for treating Alzheimer's disease by restoring normal calcium levels. The study also highlights the potential for combination therapies targeting both amyloid and calcium signaling.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine have identified four mutations in the Desmoglein-2 gene as a significant contributor to arrhythmogenic right ventricular dysplasia (ARVD), a condition that causes sudden cardiac death in young athletes. The findings should increase the accuracy of tests to identify those at risk for ARVD.
Mayo Clinic researchers have developed MR Elastography (MRE), a new technique for measuring liver elasticity using MRI. This non-invasive method shows great promise for detecting liver fibrosis, which can lead to cirrhosis if left untreated.
The DOE's SciDAC-2 program awards $60 million annually to 30 computational science projects over three to five years, focusing on designing new materials, developing future energy sources, and studying global climate change. The programs aim to accelerate scientific discovery through advanced computing and establish nine Centers for En...
According to new research, severe climate change was the primary driver of civilization's development. People were forced into close proximity due to diminishing resources, leading to the creation of large urban societies. The transition to urban living resulted in increased inequality, harder lives, and decreased health and nutrition.
Researchers discover a three-drug combo that inhibits the growth of aggressive prostate tumors by targeting neural signaling molecules and energy sources. The combination, using diuretic amiloride, Parkinson's disease medication carbidopa, and sedative-reversal drug flumazenil, shows promise for potential therapeutic applications.
A new study suggests that oceanic cold seep mollusks have an older evolutionary history than the marine mollusk community as a whole. Cold seeps may have protected these unique animals from mass extinctions and low oxygen levels, allowing them to thrive in challenging environments.
A new selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) has been found effective in treating moderate-to-severe premature ejaculation, reducing time to ejaculation by 1.75-2.78 minutes compared to placebo. The treatment also improves men's control over ejaculation and satisfaction with sexual intercourse.
Researchers found that when species colonize the deep sea, large-bodied species become smaller and small-bodied species become larger. This pattern is consistent with the island rule, which states that isolated animals evolve to be larger or smaller based on their environment.
The Dartmouth/GlycoFi team successfully completed the full humanization of glycosylation in yeast, eliminating the need for mammalian cells. This breakthrough enables the production of therapeutic proteins with improved biological function and manufacturing efficiency.
A new treatment combining high-dose radiotherapy after surgery and short-term intense chemotherapy improves the overall five-year survival rate of children with medulloblastoma to 85% for average-risk patients. High-risk patients see a significant increase in survival rates, from 55% to 70%, while reducing side effects.
Researchers found protein splicing occurs beyond RNA splicing, producing non-linear peptides and expanding antigenic options. This mechanism increases the number of potential antigens from a single protein, widening vaccine applicability against cancer and infectious diseases.
The Radiation Belt Storm Probes – Energetic Particle, Composition, and Thermal Plasma (RBSP-ECT) project will measure the behavior of charged particles causing space radiation. The study aims to achieve a better understanding of the physical processes controlling the shape and intensity of Earth's radiation belts.
Biologists have discovered that genes can change their locations in a genome, triggering the origin of species. The 'jumping gene' theory, long disputed, has been confirmed by researchers at the University of Rochester using fruit fly species Drosophila melanogaster and Drosophila simulans.
The Mayo Clinic has discovered an asthma diagnostic test that can accurately predict a patient's response to inhaled corticosteroids for chronic cough. The exhaled nitric oxide test measures inflammation in the lungs' bronchial tubes, showing promise as a more accurate and efficient alternative to methacholine challenge testing.
Migraines are more common in women than previously thought, and prevention is effective but often underused. The study reviews various stages of a woman's life, including childhood, reproductive years, pregnancy, and menopause, to provide guidance for physicians treating female migraine patients.
Case Western Reserve University researchers found a dart-like molecule, Carboxyethylpyrroles (CEPs), that adheres to proteins in the eye, triggering uncontrolled blood vessel growth. This contributes to the development of age-related macular degeneration, the leading cause of blindness over 65.
Researchers are investigating the effectiveness of Koi herpesvirus in controlling Australian carp populations. The virus has shown promise in overseas studies and could provide an alternative to existing pest control methods.
A new catalyst discovered by Boston College chemists can synthesize biologically active molecules with high selectivity, eliminating the need for costly and wasteful steps in drug production. The catalyst can also reduce environmental impact and increase efficiency.
Researchers found increasing p16INK4a levels in older cells, leading to poor function and premature aging. Studies suggest a common aging mechanism across disparate cell types, with implications for age-related diseases like diabetes.
Researchers found that mice with reduced levels of the acetylcholine transporter had impaired object recognition and social recognition abilities. The study suggests that cholinergic deficits may contribute to cognitive decline in disorders like Alzheimer's disease and aging.
Research reveals two proteins in blood foretell development of preeclampsia, a life-threatening complication of pregnancy. High levels of soluble endoglin and sFlt1 indicate severe forms of preeclampsia and offer hope for early detection and cure.
A recent study by Robert J. Gatchel confirmed that patients scoring high on the Pain Medication Questionnaire (PMQ) test demonstrate higher levels of substance abuse, psychopathology, and physical/life functioning problems. The study found that patients in the high-PMQ group are 3.2 times more likely to request early medication refills.
A critical review found that repeated administration of antiepileptic drug therapy leads to diminishing results in preventing seizures. Acquired tolerance is responsible for this effect, with some patients developing cross-tolerance to similar medication, posing a significant concern for medically intractable epilepsy
As permafrost melts in North Siberia, carbon sequestered for 40,000 years is released as methane, exacerbating global warming. Methane emissions from thaw lakes have increased estimates by 10-63%, highlighting the critical role of Northern wetlands in atmospheric methane release.
Researchers found that a gene for an anti-insect enzyme is up to 250 times more active in people with severe sinus inflammation. The enzyme's presence was linked to chronic sinusitis, which affects an estimated 32 million Americans.
Researchers have identified an enzyme called puromycin-sensitive aminopeptidase (PSA) that snips apart abnormal protein tangles in the brain, potentially providing a protective mechanism against neurodegeneration. Higher levels of PSA gene expression were found in cerebellum regions resistant to neurodegeneration.
A recent study finds that media coverage is becoming more gender-balanced, with women candidates receiving more attention and paragraphs published about them. The study suggests that this shift may be advantageous to female politicians, leading to an environment more favorable to their advancement.
The partnership aims to support the training of young investigators in pediatric gastroenterology, hepatology, and nutrition. Hepatology will now be made available without charge to NASPGHAN fellows.
The study reveals that 1- and 3-year-old children, as well as great apes, prefer a place-based strategy to remember hidden items, while humans reassess this preference with age. This suggests that some evolved cognitive strategies are masked early on in human development.
Researchers analyzed branching morphogenesis in lung, kidney and mammary glands, shedding light on organ development and implications for human health. The study's findings have significant implications for genetic manipulation and virtual reconstruction of organogenesis.
The American Political Science Association (APSA) announced its 2006 award recipients, recognizing outstanding scholarly achievements in various fields. The awards included book and dissertation prizes, as well as career honors for notable public service and journalistic contributions.
New research suggests that international fishing trade can benefit developing African countries by generating foreign exchange revenue and improving local food security. The trade in high-value fish species, such as tuna and squid, helps underpin domestic fisheries and supports the livelihoods of thousands of people.
A new H5N1 influenza vaccine has produced a safe and effective immune response in healthy people at low doses, with the highest dose showing the best response. The vaccine was well-tolerated and did not have significantly more side effects compared to a placebo.
A new study found that state health department websites are often written at a level too difficult for the average American, with only 20% of sites at an eighth-grade reading level in 2005. Many websites also lack accessibility features for people with disabilities and non-English speakers, making it hard for them to access essential i...
Sven-Eric Jordt and Michelle L. Bell received the Outstanding New Environmental Scientist (ONES) Award for their research on environmental health, focusing on asthma, allergy, and dermatitis. Their studies will investigate the relationship between environmental exposures and human disease.
A study published in the American Journal of Epidemiology found no increased risk of pregnancy loss related to drinking water disinfection by-products. The research, led by David A. Savitz, Ph.D., used data from 2,409 women and 258 pregnancy losses, concluding that tap water DBPs do not pose a measurable risk to fetal health.
The CSIRO has signed a three-way coal research and development Joint Statement with Japan Coal Energy Centre (JCOAL) and Australian Coal Research Ltd (ACARP). The agreement aims to improve coal production technology, mine safety and coal utilization. This collaboration will enhance the capabilities of both countries in these areas.
A study published by Infectious Diseases Society of America found that antibiotic-resistant bacteria are causing an increase in muscle infections, particularly among children. The researchers discovered a specific strain of Staphylococcus aureus associated with more severe disease, and emphasized the need for physicians to consider ini...
Researchers at the University of Cincinnati are studying whether environmental toxicants can worsen lung disease by activating a receptor that causes the immune system to attack stressed lung tissue. Chronic exposure to toxins like tobacco smoke and air pollutants may exacerbate damage, leading to additional health problems.
A recent study found that 30% of nurses reported both verbal and physical abuse in the last four working weeks. The most common forms of physical abuse were strikes from hands or fists, while verbal abuse was mostly rudeness and shouting. The research highlights a disturbing trend of workplace aggression in modern healthcare settings.
Mark Brandon's award-winning research explores the dynamics of erosion in tectonically active mountain ranges. His work has shed light on the interplay between accretion, erosion, and wedge growth in shaping the Earth's surface.
Rapid crystallization of magma near the surface causes it to heat up, potentially triggering volcanic eruptions. The study's findings have important implications for models of magma ascent beneath volcanoes.
Researchers at Harvard University have developed a new photonic device that uses an optical antenna to concentrate light and improve spatial resolution, leading to increased storage density in optical data storage platforms. The device could also be used in biology and engineering applications such as microscopy and spectroscopy.
Nearly 80% of US organizations engage in employee surveillance, sparking concerns over civil liberties. The USA PATRIOT Act's implementation has led to widespread monitoring, with many exceptions allowing unchecked workplace surveillance.
Researchers discovered that defects in a crucial brain protein can lead to memory loss, similar to Alzheimer's disease. Mice genetically engineered to have reduced levels of this protein displayed impaired social memory and recognition, but treatment with cholinesterase inhibitors improved their performance.
Scientists from Boston University created a mouse model with reduced inflammation, which may lead to new treatments for conditions like arthritis and Crohn's disease. The study found that the LITAF transcription factor controls inflammation through a different pathway than the NF-kB regulator.
A new academic discipline, neuroarthistory, uses scanning techniques to answer questions about artistic phenomena and the origin of art. The research explains why certain styles emerged in different regions and periods, shedding light on the creative processes of artists such as Leonardo.
A new approach to radiotherapy and chemotherapy has significantly improved the outcome for children with high-risk medulloblastoma. The study found that this adaptive treatment can cure over 70% of children with this disease.
The National Institute of General Medical Sciences (NIGMS) will award $13 million to create four centers to develop new treatments for various types of wounds, including burns, diabetic ulcers, and bedsores. This initiative aims to deepen understanding of wound healing and apply knowledge to enhance treatment.
Management Science has introduced a monthly feature called Management Insights, which provides a digest of important research in business and management. The September issue features studies on airline safety, entrepreneurial risk, and market valuation, offering practical insights for practicing managers.
A review of medical literature found that physicians' self-assessments are less accurate than external observations of their competence. The authors recommend shifting the focus from unguided physician self-assessment to processes that provide iterative feedback and support learning.
Researchers analyzed Paulinella's plastid genome, finding it closely related to cyanobacteria and retaining ancient genetic features. The study offers insights into the establishment of plastids and the transition from single-celled hosts to complex organisms.
A 55-gene expression profile identifies children at high risk of progressive metastatic neuroblastoma. Lay health advisors improve mammography use among low-income women. Cyclin D1 inhibits STAT3, slowing breast cancer tumor growth. Researchers identify CD95/CD95L as a molecular system involved in radiation-induced pneumonitis.
A Queen's University study suggests administering low doses of carbon monoxide to pregnant women may help prevent the potentially damaging effects of pre-eclampsia, a condition affecting five to seven per cent of pregnancies. The research found that carbon monoxide may relax blood vessels and prevent cell death in the placenta.