A newly identified molecular pathway involving the urokinase receptor (uPAR) appears to play a crucial role in the breakdown of kidney filtration structures, leading to proteinuria. The research suggests that targeting this pathway with antibodies or small molecule compounds could prevent or decrease proteinuria in animals.
Scientists have discovered a hybrid semiconductor material with zero thermal expansion, which could revolutionize the design of future electronics and optoelectronics. The material, composed of alternating organic and inorganic layers, contracts while expanding, resulting in zero net thermal expansion.
A Johns Hopkins study found that morbidly obese patients wait a median of five years on the transplant waiting list, while normal-weight patients wait two years less. The researchers argue that being overweight should not be a disqualifying factor for transplantation and call for guidelines to treat equally.
Scientists have discovered that Broca's region in the brain plays a crucial role in interpreting speech by constructing unique interpretations of spoken words. This mechanism allows humans to hear new sounds when conflicting verbal and visual signals are present.
A recent study published in BMC International Health and Human Rights found that the health and social conditions of indigenous peoples have improved faster than those of non-indigenous populations in Australia, Canada, and New Zealand. However, the gap widened in Australia during the 1990s.
The Pierre Auger Collaboration has found an anisotropy in cosmic ray arrival directions correlated with galaxies containing active galactic nuclei. This discovery suggests that AGN are the source of the most energetic particles reaching Earth.
A new report emphasizes the importance of good hand hygiene in preventing the spread of infections, including colds, flu, and stomach bugs. By washing hands regularly and using alcohol-based hand sanitizers, individuals can reduce the risk of transmission and protect themselves and others from harm.
A recent survey found that two out of 18 northwest England hospitals lacked a written chemical emergency plan and three A&E departments had no staff trained in chemical decontamination. The study highlights major gaps in preparedness for chemical incidents, calling for national guidelines to be set and enforced.
The U.S. Department of Energy has awarded a grant to Adam Moule, assistant professor at UC Davis, to study ways to assemble thin layers of organic polymers into flexible panels for more efficient solar cells. The goal is to reduce costs and increase power output, with potential prototype development by 2015.
Researchers found that skatepark-related injuries can lead to substantial medical costs, lost wages, and even job loss. The study highlights the economic burden of these injuries, particularly for working adults older than 25, who often miss work or lose their jobs due to injuries.
A research team has uncovered the molecular mechanism by which osteocrin controls bone growth, a discovery that may have important implications for people suffering from bone diseases affecting skeletal growth. Osteocrin was found to locally control the bone's supply of a hormone known as CNP, regulating bone growth.
New research reveals symbiotic bacteria in black bean aphids can exhibit a disruptive 'Hyde' side, slowing insect growth while allowing bacterial proliferation. This discovery may lead to new methods for controlling insect pests without relying on insecticides.
The Hall Technique, a simple method of filling teeth with preformed metal crowns, has been shown to be effective in slowing or stopping tooth decay. Children who received the Hall Technique experienced significant improvement in their dental health, including reduced pain and abscesses compared to traditional 'drill and fill' methods.
The GABAA receptor's inhibition of learning has been reversed by its overexpression, revealing a complex relationship between neurotransmitters and cognitive processes. Fruit flies exhibit impaired learning at high temperatures but retain memory, suggesting that the receptor's absence may enhance neural plasticity.
A new study published in PLOS Computational Biology suggests that the inefficient process of replacing worn-out cells is a defense against cancer. The researchers found that multicellular organisms use a complex system to replace lost cells, which suppresses mutations that could lead to uncontrolled cell growth.
Researchers at MIT's Picower Institute have corrected key symptoms of mental retardation and autism in mice by reducing a specific receptor. The findings suggest that a certain class of drugs could have the same effect, potentially treating fragile X syndrome and other developmental disorders.
Researchers at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital have found a connection between two cellular defense mechanisms, phagocytosis and autophagy, that help the body fight infections and resist chemotherapy drugs. The study suggests that these mechanisms work together to destroy germs and cancer cells, paving the way for new treatments.
A new corporate reorganization paradigm promises to preserve value in financially distressed companies by efficiently transferring assets to their most efficient users. This market-driven process, facilitated by active investors like hedge funds and private equity firms, aims to minimize the impact of financial distress on businesses.
Researchers have alleviated various abnormalities associated with fragile X syndrome by reducing the activity of a specific gene. The findings suggest that this approach may lead to treatment for the disorder, which affects brain structure and function, as well as causing mental retardation, epilepsy, and abnormal body growth.
Researchers have identified brain regions where speech sounds are perceived with abstract meaning, independent of sensory input. The study found two left-hemisphere speech-processing regions that code speech at an abstract level.
A recent study on the burying beetle found that parents instinctively favor older offspring, leading to unequal growth rates among siblings. The researchers believe this bias is due to both increased survival value and dominance in younger siblings.
Researchers found that inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) activation promotes mutagenic changes in DNA, leading to biliary carcinogenesis. NO generation was increased by inflammatory cytokines and suppressed by an iNOS inhibitor.
A study by Montreal Neurological Institute researchers found that tone-deaf individuals have a thicker cortex in regions involved in auditory and musical processing. This parallels the observed cortex thickness in dyslexia, suggesting abnormal neuronal migration or cell pruning during development may contribute to the disorder.
A study published in Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin found that people consistently favor the underdog to win, regardless of scenario. The researchers propose that this is because underdogs evoke a sense of fairness and justice, as well as the perception that they put forth more effort.
The Center of Research Translation will investigate systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) through a four-group approach, focusing on B-cells, disease progression, and gene contributions. This project aims to translate basic research findings in mice to human SLE, improving treatment options for patients.
A large-scale study found that patients cared for by hospitalists had shorter hospital stays and lower treatment costs, with modestly lower mortality rates compared to general internists and family physicians. The study's findings support the benefits of hospitalist care and highlight its potential to improve healthcare efficiency.
A microchip-based device, called the CTC-chip, can isolate, enumerate, and analyze circulating tumor cells from blood samples. The device was tested on 68 patients with five different types of tumors and showed a sensitivity rating of 99%, accurately monitoring response to treatment.
Researchers have visualized cold-sensing fibers led by the gatekeeper protein TRPM8, revealing a single pathway for detecting various types of cold. The study provides evidence that TRPM8 is involved in several cold-sensing mechanisms, including pain and sensation.
A study published in European Journal of Applied Physiology found a consistent correlation between actual and perceived exertion in people of all fitness levels. Researchers say an individual's sense of hard work matches the level of physical exertion measured by heart-rate and oxygen uptake.
A new study found that treating worms in people with HIV does not significantly slow down the progression to AIDS. While some studies suggested a beneficial effect on viral load, there was no improvement in immune status or clinical condition.
Researchers at Vanderbilt University developed an RNA interference therapy that corrects a genetic disorder causing growth deficiency in mice. The therapy successfully restored normal growth and function to the pituitary gland, which produces growth hormone.
A new study found that outcomes of high-risk cancer operations in 80-year-olds are considerably worse than reported, with higher mortality rates and lower survival rates. This limited information may lead to unrealistic expectations about the safety of these operations in the elderly.
A survey of 17- to 29-year-old university students found that users believed cannabis would help them fit in, feel relaxed, and forget their worries. Non-users cited work and study as strong reasons for not using cannabis.
A new Commonwealth Fund report analyzes 15 federal policy options to achieve significant short- and long-term savings and greater value in the US health care system. Combining universal coverage with policies aimed at reducing spending could result in substantial savings, including $88 billion from promoting health information technolo...
The Government of Bangladesh plans to expand the use of urea deep placement (UDP) technology on 1 million hectares of rice land, expected to boost dry season rice production by 548,000 tons. This technology cuts nitrogen losses significantly, allowing farmers to increase yields by 25% while using less than 50% as much urea as before.
A new study from Yale University suggests that preventing half of new XDR TB cases can be achieved through inexpensive infection control measures, including reducing hospital overcrowding and improving ventilation. This could potentially save millions of lives globally.
A study published in the Journal of the American College of Surgeons found that early cholecystectomy significantly reduces hospital stays in patients with mild to moderate gallstone pancreatitis. The procedure can benefit both individual patients and hospitals by reducing hospital time by three or four days.
Richard D. Smith, Battelle Fellow at PNNL, has been named to the prestigious Scientific American 50 list for his contributions in developing a new approach to neurological diagnostics. His research may help identify early stages of Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases by analyzing biochemical biomarkers.
A new study reveals that picophytoplankton species' tolerance of high light can explain their ocean-wide distribution. Different regions have distinct abilities to cope with variable light through rapid repair, driven by nutrient availability.
Stanford researchers have developed a new type of lithium-ion battery using silicon nanowires, which can store up to 10 times more electricity than traditional batteries. This breakthrough could make Li-ion batteries more attractive for electric cars and home energy storage.
Making preschool available to all children aged three and older in the US would improve school-readiness, fill gaps for working families, and lower high school dropout rates. The initiative would also reduce crime and boost the economy, according to Edward Zigler, Walter Gilliam, and Stephanie Jones.
The Argentine ant's invasive success is attributed to its adaptability and ability to outcompete native ants. As it displaces native species, the ants begin foraging lower on the food chain, exploiting honeydew excretions of aphids and scale insects.
Researchers have found a naturally occurring protein called CnAß1 that permanently activates calcineurin, increasing muscle stem cell proliferation and regeneration. This uncouples the protein's activity from injury signals, making it a promising candidate for treating muscle damage and wasting.
A $1.5 million grant renewal will support the first-of-its-kind study examining driving abilities in cognitively impaired elders. The study aims to understand the validity of road tests and develop computerized measures as a screening tool.
A study by Yale School of Medicine identified a genetic mutation that expands lesions in the aorta and promotes coronary atherosclerosis. The researchers found that mice lacking the Akt1 gene developed more severe aortic atherosclerosis, highlighting the importance of this gene in regulating endothelial cell development
The International Technology Roadmap for Semiconductors is a top advance, driving progress in microelectronics and materials science. Materials science studies materials used in devices and technologies, including polymers, semiconductors, and metals.
A study of Vietnam war veterans with brain injuries found that those with higher intelligence and education levels before injury experienced a slower decline in cognitive functioning. The researchers also identified genetic markers associated with cognitive recovery or decline after head injury.
Researchers at Yale University found that an antibody used to treat certain cancers and rheumatoid arthritis delays type 1 diabetes in mice. The treatment works by depleting B cells, which can continue to suppress the inflammatory response even after the antibody is no longer administered.
A Harvard University study found that living in a severely disadvantaged neighborhood decreases later verbal test scores by about four IQ points, equivalent to missing a year of school. This effect persists even after moving out of the neighborhood, highlighting the importance of addressing social factors beyond economic situation.
Researchers at University of Copenhagen have discovered a new material that can convert up to 30% of solar energy into electricity, twice the current conversion rate. The use of nanotechnology reduces production costs and minimizes energy loss in solar cell transportation.
Researchers found that a protein called hypoxia-inducible-factor (HIF-1) promotes the synthesis of fibrous connective tissue in kidneys, leading to reduced oxygenation and progression of chronic kidney disease. The study used mice with silenced HIF-1a to demonstrate the link between low oxygen conditions and CKD.
Researchers found that some morbidly obese patients have better cardiovascular disease risk profiles than those who are less obese. Bariatric weight-loss surgery may benefit individuals with a BMI as low as 30, not just those with higher BMIs.
The University of Maryland researchers have developed a 2D invisibility cloak that refracts visible light around an object, making it invisible. The cloak is created using a thin, transparent acrylic plastic layer with a gold film and can be integrated into a conventional optical microscope to view nanoscale details.
A study conducted by University College London found that unsupervised children engage in more physical activity, such as walking and playing, due to the ability to explore their local environment. This leads to improved social skills and overall well-being.
Researchers at Rutgers University have made a breakthrough in understanding the complex mechanisms behind cochlear implants. By studying the role of neurotrophin proteins, they may be able to develop a new generation of implants that can improve hearing for all patients, regardless of their level of impairment.
A 15-year study found women with low bone mineral density and a previous vertebral fracture had a higher risk of new vertebral fractures compared to those with normal bone density and no previous fracture. Women who experienced a new fracture were more likely to have a positive fracture history, weigh less, and report lower estrogen use.
The EPOXI mission will use the Deep Impact spacecraft to search for Earth-sized planets around five stars and conduct an extended flyby of Comet Hartley 2, studying its surface and composition. This new mission aims to better understand how solar systems form and evolve.
Researchers found that high blood folate levels can increase homocysteine and methylmalonic acid in individuals with vitamin B12 deficiency, worsening symptoms. This study suggests that excessive folate may compromise the body's ability to use vitamin B12 effectively.
Researchers argue that the accelerated uplift of mountains and highlands in East Africa blocked ocean moisture, favoring human ancestors who adapted to walking on two feet. The 'Wall of Africa,' spanning from Ethiopia to South Africa, played a significant role in shaping climate and vegetation.
Research published in Journal of Correctional Health Care explores the history and future of correctional health care in America's prisons and jails. Inmates often experience inadequate access to quality care, leading to poor health outcomes, and follow-up care after release is also a concern.