A team of chemists at the University of Georgia has proposed a mechanism for how adenine, a key component of DNA, might be formed from five cyanide molecules under terrestrial conditions. The research suggests that simple molecules can combine chemically to form the building blocks of life, offering a new answer to an unsolved puzzle.
Research from the University of Washington suggests that a person's moral identity motivates behavior, but accurate judgments are needed to set it in the right direction. A strong moral identity can push individuals toward socially desirable outcomes, but without proper guidance, it can also lead to undesirable behaviors.
Duke researchers identified a new brain marker that may help predict future Alzheimer's disease by tracking deactivation of the posteromedial cortex. A third of individuals with mild cognitive impairment converted to Alzheimer's in three years, with fMRI scans predicting this progression.
A study published in Genome Biology has identified genes associated with alcohol sensitivity in fruit flies. The research team found over 1000 genes that differ in expression between sensitive and resistant flies, including 23 human orthologs that could be linked to alcohol sensitivity in humans.
Scientists at Newcastle University have developed a technology using UV light to activate antibodies specifically targeting tumour cells. The cloaked antibodies can be used alone or in combination with existing antibodies, minimizing side effects and maximizing destruction of tumours.
Researchers discover mechanism by which rosemary's carnosic acid fights off free radical damage in the brain, potentially leading to new treatments for stroke and neurodegenerative diseases. The active compound activates a novel signaling pathway, providing a 'pathological-activated therapeutic' approach with reduced side effects.
Researchers at Saint Louis University School of Medicine discovered a key brain chemical that causes Parkinson’s disease. They found that dopamine itself is converted into DOPAL, which triggers the death of dopamine-producing cells and leads to Parkinson’s.
A study of 124 patients with acute viral hepatitis found that 5.65% had mild pancreatitis, all of whom recovered on conservative management. Patients with severe abdominal pain should undergo serum amylase and ultrasonography to rule out pancreatitis as a cause.
A recent study of depressed veterans found that younger, white, non-Hispanic men are at the highest risk for suicide, while those with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) have a lower rate. The study also highlights the importance of substance abuse treatment in reducing suicidal behavior among depressed veterans.
Astronomers have discovered a massive black hole with a mass 24 to 33 times that of our Sun, exceeding expectations. The discovery was made using two NASA satellites and suggests that stellar-mass black holes can be much larger than previously thought.
A major international study found mass drug treatment for lymphatic filariasis (elephantiasis) to be relatively inexpensive, costing $0.06 to $2.23 per person treated. The disease affects over 1.3 billion people worldwide and can be eradicated through once-yearly mass drug administration of two drugs.
A study reveals an astonishing level of cryptic diversity among frog species in the Guiana Shield region, potentially doubling previously thought numbers. The underestimation of amphibian diversity has broad implications for conservation efforts and management of biodiversity.
Industry experts suggest nanotechnology can improve fuel extraction from dwindling resources and reduce pollution. Nanomaterials may be used to enhance efficiency, purification and storage of hydrocarbons.
Researchers at Albert Einstein College of Medicine successfully treated cancers by targeting viruses that cause them, slowing tumor growth and even causing tumors to regress. The approach holds promise for preventing cancer by destroying virus-infected cells before they become cancerous.
Research associates ADH2 and ALDH2 polymorphisms with increased esophageal cancer risk, particularly in individuals who consume alcohol. The study found that certain genetic variants can modulate individual differences in alcohol-oxidizing capacity and drinking behavior, leading to a higher risk of developing esophageal cancer.
A study published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute found that treatment with a vitamin A derivative called retinoic acid reduced the growth of lung cells in former heavy smokers. The researchers also found that the treatment slowed down cell growth in the parabasal layer of lung cells, but not in the basal layer.
A single disease-causing clone of the bacterium Leptospira interrogans was identified as the cause of a sustained outbreak of human leptospirosis in northeast Thailand from 1999 to 2003. The researchers used genetic analysis and found that the bandicoot rat was an animal host for this pathogenic strain.
Researchers at Thomas Jefferson University found that stereotactic radiation is an effective alternative to surgery for benign brain tumors called non-acoustic schwannomas. The study showed excellent local tumor control with minimal side effects, making it a promising treatment option.
The NIH has awarded $33 million to three states to support multidisciplinary centers focused on diabetes, cartilage health, and cell development. The awards aim to strengthen institutional biomedical research capability and enhance research infrastructure in historically underfunded states.
A study presented at the American Heart Association conference found that keeping Halloween candy wrappers visible reduces consumption by nearly half. By moving candy dishes away from tempting areas or controlling portion sizes, parents can help their kids develop healthier eating habits during the holiday.
A computer-based method to evaluate the eye's ability to distinguish object details and shape in patients with AMD could provide a more accurate way to assess the effectiveness of eye surgery or vision rehabilitation interventions. The test might help detect early detection of AMD and estimate patient potential visual acuity.
Researchers at University of Bonn use computer simulations to understand how star clusters are formed from interstellar gas clouds and evolve over time. The study finds that small clusters are easily destroyed by radiation from stars, while heavy clusters survive longer.
Three studies investigate how tumors respond to EGFR inhibitors, revealing the crucial role of BIM protein in triggering apoptosis. The findings suggest that induction of BIM may lead to a new way of treating tumors resistant to these drugs.
A large European study found that an extra high-dose radiation boost after breast-conserving surgery significantly reduces the risk of breast cancer recurrence in young women. The study also showed that women of all ages benefited from the boost dose, but younger women were most likely to be free of cancer 10 years after treatment.
Researchers have determined the first known structure of a human G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR), specifically the beta2-adrenergic receptor. This breakthrough promises to speed the discovery of new and improved drugs, as well as broaden our understanding of human health and disease.
African American women are diagnosed with breast cancer at a younger age and have larger tumors than Caucasian women. The study found higher relapse rates in African American patients after treatment.
Researchers found a significant correlation between inhalant use and suicidality, with girls more likely to experience suicidal thoughts and attempts. The study involved 723 incarcerated youth and revealed that over 80% of girl participants who abused inhalants had attempted suicide.
Scientists at Georgia Tech discovered that certain cells can retain information about previous encounters through receptor-ligand interactions. This finding suggests that sequential measurements may not be independent and could impact research conclusions.
A phase II trial of axitinib has shown promising activity in patients with cytokine-refractory, metastatic kidney cancer. In the trial, 23 patients had complete or partial responses, with some responses lasting up to 26 months.
A recent MIT study warns that increasing levels of human-generated ozone will damage global vegetation, particularly crops, resulting in significant economic costs. By 2100, crop production is projected to decline by 10-12 percent, with the most affected regions being northern temperate areas.
Renal experts will discuss link between chronic kidney disease (CKD) and CVD, consequences of acute kidney injury, racial disparities in kidney disease outcomes, and treatment of anemia in kidney patients. The ASN's Public Policy News Briefing aims to improve health outcomes by highlighting significant research impacting public health.
Synagis, a monoclonal antibody, is the standard of care for preventing severe RSV infections in high-risk infants. The new analysis found that preventing RSV early in life makes economic sense by reducing potential costs of future complications and improving quality of life.
A 53-million-year-old fossilized spider has been digitally dissected using VHR-CT, revealing internal organs for the first time. The technique has revolutionized the study of amber fossils, providing a unique window into past forest ecosystems.
Research by University of Illinois soil scientists found that nitrogen fertilizers lead to a decline in soil organic carbon, even after decades of use. The study's findings have troubling implications for corn production and highlight the need for site-specific soil testing to optimize fertilizer rates.
Scientists have found a way to prevent seizure-induced structural changes in brain cells, which can lead to cognitive impairments such as memory loss and reduced attention spans. The breakthrough discovery uses a drug called FK506, which blocks the breakdown of actin, a molecule essential for cell structures.
A new guideline from the American Academy of Neurology recommends using immediate brain CT scans to screen patients with seizures in the emergency room. This helps doctors select the right treatment option, especially for young children and those with AIDS. The scans can detect abnormalities such as tumors, traumatic brain injury, or s...
Research from Duke University finds that optimism relates to various behaviors, including wise decision-making in small doses. However, extreme optimists display unwise financial habits such as working fewer hours, saving less money, and making impulsive investment decisions.
The Carnegie Institution's Department of Global Ecology will conduct a one-year pilot study on ecosystem diversity in Kruger National Park using remote sensing and the Carnegie Airborne Observatory. This research aims to improve adaptive management and develop skills for park managers to undertake remote monitoring of ecosystems.
New research reveals fever responses differ among closely related mouse species, suggesting reproductive strategy plays a role. Fast-living mice tend to use fever less often than slow-living counterparts, highlighting the trade-offs between immune defenses and other physiological processes.
A recent study found that African-American women with early-stage breast cancer are more likely to experience cancer recurrence 10 years after diagnosis compared to Caucasian counterparts. The research also revealed that younger African-American women tend to have larger tumors and more aggressive tumors than their Caucasian peers, hig...
Researchers found that sedimentary zircon grains from Oregon basins have similar mineral ages to those in the Klamath Mountains and Sierra Nevada ranges. This suggests a Jurassic connection between these geological formations.
Researchers at the University of Illinois found a common nervous system receptor that inhibits its binding protein, leading to abnormal neuron growth and development. This unusual mechanism directs the formation of tens of thousands of neurons vital for odor detection.
Scientists analyzed neon and argon samples from NASA's Genesis mission to determine the isotopic composition of noble gases in the sun. The results show that the isotopic composition is consistent across different regimes of solar wind, indicating that measuring solar wind samples can represent the solar corona.
Research found that genetic variation affects sensitivity to the smell of sweat, with one gene (OR11H7P) associated with smelling sweat. Environmental factors also play a role in individual differences in olfactory acuity.
Researchers at the University of Georgia Cancer Center have synthesized a carbohydrate-based vaccine that successfully triggered a strong immune response to cancer cells in mice. The vaccine has shown promise in creating an antibody response that can kill cultured epithelial cells and stimulating an immune response in healthy mice.
A new study reveals that the intrinsic tendency of amyloid peptide Aß to aggregate determines its pathogenicity in Alzheimer disease. The researchers used a fruit fly model to identify the determinants of Aß's toxicity, finding a clear correlation between aggregation propensity and disease progression.
Researchers found that African-American college students reported poorer sleep quality, slept less time, and took longer to fall asleep compared to whites. These findings suggest that ethnic differences in sleep quality may be linked to higher blood pressure risk and 'blood pressure dipping',
A study found that a pharmaceutical monoclonal antibody can prevent pulmonary fibrosis, a serious side effect of radiation therapy for advanced lung cancer. This breakthrough may lead to more effective radiation therapies and extend patients' lives.
A study published in PLoS Biology investigates how bacterial cell colonies develop and self-organize to address environmental challenges. The research reveals that bacterial cells can coordinate their growth and movement to improve access to nutrients and facilitate efficient escape from crowded areas.
Researchers will use high-tech LifeShirts to monitor cardiovascular and respiratory systems, while thermal imaging cameras capture video of fire scenes. The goal is to improve firefighter safety and reduce deaths caused by heart attacks.
The Richard King Mellon Foundation Institute for Pediatric Research will strengthen pediatric research and advance children's health, with a focus on high-risk projects and innovative ideas. The institute aims to build upon Pittsburgh's existing reputation as a leading center for pediatric research.
A large retrospective study found that radiation seed implants (brachytherapy) are equally effective in curing localized prostate cancer in men aged 60 and younger. The study results suggest that younger men should be presented with all viable treatment options, including brachytherapy, regardless of age.
Engineers are developing new biological cements to repair burst fractures of the spine, a major leap forward in treatment. The novel cement materials mimic the chemical composition of bone and can be injected at the fracture site to stabilize the spine with minimal invasive surgery.
Researchers are investigating vinflunine as a potential treatment for advanced bladder cancer patients who cannot receive standard cisplatin and gemcitabine chemotherapy due to kidney problems. The Phase II study aims to determine if vinflunine can effectively treat the disease while minimizing side effects.
Researchers found that patients with glioblastoma multiforme treated with radiation and chemotherapy drug temozolomide can live up to four years after diagnosis, compared to three percent of those who received only radiation. The treatment has become the standard for GBM patients worldwide.
A new study by Fox Chase Cancer Center found that higher doses of radiation therapy for prostate cancer do not lead to decreased sexual function. The research used intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) and showed no significant difference in sexual function scores between two treatment groups.
Researchers at Michigan State University have identified a new gene, JY-1, necessary for embryonic development in dairy cows. The discovery may offer insights into the cause of infertility in women, who also experience single egg release and individual births, unlike mice which release multiple eggs.
Researchers aim to determine who is at risk for colorectal cancer and tailor screening tests accordingly. Dr. Thomas F. Imperiale advocates for more targeted approaches, such as using easily accessible factors like age and family medical history.
A lack of civil registration systems in Africa and Asia hinders policymakers' ability to make informed public health decisions. Affordable solutions exist to collect vital statistics, which must be implemented urgently to address the 'scandal of invisibility'.
Researchers nationwide team up to develop means of concentrating and controlling optical energy for applications in nanoscience and nanotechnology. The grant aims to attract college students to participate in nanoscience research and explore novel devices such as mid-infrared 'superlens' that can resolve nanoscale features.