Researchers created OCD-like behaviors in mice using genetic engineering and reversed them with antidepressants and targeted a key brain circuit. The study suggests new strategies for treating the disorder by understanding the role of the SAPAP3 gene in glutamate-mediated communications.
Researchers have developed a new test that can diagnose common brain diseases like Alzheimer's and schizophrenia with high accuracy. By analyzing tiny magnetic fields produced by neuron activity, the test can identify patterns associated with these debilitating diseases.
Dr. Susana Martinez-Conde and her team will record neural activity in the brain's visual areas to understand why images appear stable during fixation. They aim to determine at what level of the brain visual perception becomes stable, shedding light on this critical aspect of our visual experience.
A team of researchers at the University of Cambridge has finally succeeded in synthesizing azadirachtin, a natural compound that stops predatory insects from feeding. The breakthrough uses a novel Claisen rearrangement and radical cyclization reaction to produce the complex molecule.
Researchers using pinhead-sized fossils from sediments deep beneath the Atlantic Ocean found that large continental ice sheets did not exist in both hemispheres around 41 million years ago. The findings resolve a long-standing problem and provide renewed confidence in our understanding of geological events and ice sheet existence.
Simulated climate change scenarios show varying effects on groundwater recharge, with some areas experiencing dramatic increases and others minor changes. The study highlights the importance of considering both surface and underground climate impacts in resource management and government policies.
Researchers found that keratinocytes can control melanocyte pigmentation by producing chemical signals, leading to new possibilities for bioengineered skin grafts and cosmetics. This discovery has significant implications for individuals with medical conditions requiring skin transplants or pigment diseases.
A comprehensive survey found that most older adults (57-85) are sexually active and view intimacy as crucial to life, but face high rates of 'bothersome' sexual problems. Healthier individuals report more frequent sex, with physical health playing a stronger role than age.
Researchers at the University of Leeds have discovered a naturally occurring protein preventing 57 genes from operating normally in Huntington's sufferers' brains. Cancer drugs targeting this protein could halt its destructive nature.
Carnegie Mellon researchers find that liquefied natural gas (LNG) imports could have 35% higher lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions than coal. The study urges caution against investing in LNG infrastructure, highlighting the need for analysis of indirect implications and conservation measures.
Researchers at Carnegie Mellon have modeled the molecular changes that occur when glutamate docks with a receptor on a neuron, enabling computer simulation of binding-site closure and opening. This breakthrough could lead to the development of drug therapies for disorders such as epilepsy and Alzheimer’s disease.
Researchers have identified new proteins in amniotic fluid that could improve pregnancy marker development. Additionally, a study on the Wlds gene has provided insights into preventing neuronal communication deterioration in Alzheimer's disease. A comprehensive analysis of proteins in human Jurkat T cells has also been conducted.
Scientists are studying Streptococcus pneumoniae bacteria grown in space to understand how it adapts and potentially poses a threat to long-duration space travelers. The bacteria were brought back from orbit frozen in 'zero-g mode' for analysis, providing valuable insights into its behavior in microgravity.
A study published in The FASEB Journal has identified specific physiological properties that regulate melanocyte function, offering hope for new treatments of pigmentation disorders. Keratinocytes are found to influence pigment production and help regulate skin coloration.
The American Chemical Society (ACS) is presenting several groundbreaking research developments related to nanotechnology and biotechnology. Researchers from Harvard University, the California Institute of Technology, and Northwestern University will discuss new technologies that aim to improve human health and productivity in the futur...
The first comprehensive national survey of older adults' sexual attitudes and behaviors found that most people ages 57-85 consider sex an important part of life. However, nearly half reported at least one sexual problem, including lack of desire, vaginal dryness, or erectile dysfunction.
A two-year study will assess optimal methods for reducing heat stress in firefighters, evaluating the efficacy of different rehabilitation methods. The study aims to improve firefighter health and safety by understanding the mechanisms of heat stress and its effects on the heart.
A new study found that environmental monitoring of institutional water systems can predict the risk of hospital-acquired Legionnaires' disease. Routine testing of hospital water systems for Legionella bacteria is recommended to prevent hospital-acquired cases, which are estimated to be responsible for up to 20,000 cases a year in the US.
Johns Hopkins researchers have solved the long-standing puzzle of how bacteria produce the B vitamin folate, uncovering an unknown enzyme that plays a crucial role in the process. The discovery sheds light on potential antibacterial drug targets and could lead to new therapeutic options.
Researchers found a repeating pattern of 8 to 10 base pairs between CG dinucleotides that may signal differential methylation and imprinting. This discovery sheds light on the mechanisms of gene regulation and has implications for understanding disease development, particularly in cancer genes.
A recent study by Wake Forest University School of Medicine has found that autistic individuals have deficient connections within single brain regions, contradicting previous assumptions. The discovery was made using magnetoencephalography brain imaging technology and may lead to earlier diagnosis and targeted medications for autism.
Researchers at the University of Minnesota Medical School have developed a noninvasive diagnostic tool for complex brain diseases by recording tiny magnetic fields in the brain. The technique, which uses magnetoencephalography (MEG), can predict Alzheimer's and other brain diseases with high accuracy.
A new £1m study aims to recruit 300 families of Indian and Pakistani origin to adopt a healthy lifestyle, with the goal of reducing type 2 diabetes by 50%. Researchers will provide culturally-specific advice on nutrition and exercise to family members at risk.
Researchers have discovered that 'good' cholesterol can undergo detrimental changes in protein composition, making it 'bad' for the heart. The study identifies previously unrecognized proteins that play an important role in maintaining heart health.
A study published in Critical Care suggests that large burns can lead to cardiac problems, inflammatory responses, and hypermetabolic states. Effective treatments may focus on addressing these multiple aspects, including inflammation and organ function.
Scientists develop purification process to recover recombinant gelatin from transgenic corn, addressing concerns over infectious agents and traceability. The method uses chromatographic and filtration techniques to achieve high purity, opening up new possibilities for plant-based protein production.
The University of Miami Rosenstiel School has launched a new lab to study the effects of climate change on corals, using controlled temperature and carbon dioxide conditions. The lab aims to understand how corals will respond to increased ocean acidity and warming in the next 50-100 years.
By using synthetic DNA to recognize and bind to complementary DNA on nanoparticles, researchers can control the self-assembly of gold nanoparticles into clusters. This technique provides precise control over nanoparticle assembly, enabling the creation of well-organized nanoclusters.
A new study reveals that restless legs syndrome is common and troublesome in children and adolescents, occurring more frequently than diabetes and epilepsy. The condition, characterized by sensations in the legs, affects nearly 2% of US/UK children aged 8 to 17, with a significant proportion experiencing moderate to severe symptoms.
Researchers at the University of Georgia are working on a new approach to detect pancreatic cancer using subtle changes in proteins and sugars. They believe that these biomarkers can be found in pancreatic fluid and blood, which could lead to earlier detection and improved treatment outcomes.
A study by the University of Copenhagen found that soccer players experienced greater improvements in fitness ratings and muscle mass compared to joggers. The researchers attribute this to the shifts between walking, running, and sprinting in soccer, which engages multiple muscle fibers.
Researchers discovered that mice without a key brain protein exhibited OCD-like behavior, including compulsive grooming and anxiety. Restoring the protein improved behaviors, suggesting a possible synaptic defect as the cause of OCD-like symptoms.
The Biophysical Society has awarded 14 individuals for their exceptional contributions to the field of biophysics. These awards recognize achievements in areas such as lipids and membrane biology, education, single molecule biology, and computational biology.
Dr. Andrej Romanovsky has been awarded a $1.8 million grant to study the mechanisms of fever and hypothermia in systemic inflammation. His research aims to gain insight into the therapeutic use of anti-inflammatory drugs.
Severely obese patients who undergo gastric bypass surgery show significant reductions in mortality rates from coronary heart disease, cancer, and diabetes. The study found a 56% lower mortality rate from coronary heart disease, a 60% lower death rate from cancer, and a 92% lower death rate from diabetes.
Researchers found that vitamin E's antioxidant effect is only significant at high doses, exceeding previously used amounts in clinical trials. The optimal dose was determined to be around 1600 IU/day for maximum suppression of oxidative stress.
Researchers at BRIC, University of Copenhagen, identified a new gene family (UTX-JMJD3) controlling embryonic development and stem cell maintenance. The discovery may contribute to understanding cancer development and therapeutic use of stem cells.
A chemist warns that the skin-care industry is skipping out on science, potentially providing consumers with less effective products. The industry often focuses on replicating existing formulas rather than applying sound science to improve products, according to Stig E. Friberg, Ph.D.
Scientists have identified Marburg virus RNA genome and antibodies in African fruit bats (Rousettus aegyptiacus), providing new insight into a deadly disease that has long baffled epidemiologists. The discovery, published in PLoS ONE, offers potential for understanding transmission and development of a vaccine or drug therapy.
Researchers found that chlorogenic acid lactones, present in light to medium roast brews, are the dominant source of bitterness. Phenylindanes, derived from lactones, are found at higher levels in dark-roasted coffee and exhibit a more lingering, harsh taste.
University of Illinois researchers warn that higher corn prices are causing some farmers to ignore integrated pest management (IPM) strategies, which could undermine the effectiveness of technologies that sustain them. IPM is a set of principles developed to minimize ecological impacts of pesticides and transgenic crops.
A Taiwanese study suggests that Four-Agents Decoction, an 800-year-old traditional Chinese herbal formula, may exhibit a beneficial effect on primary dysmenorrhea after extended treatment. However, the study did not detect significant pain reduction in the initial cycle. The authors recommend further research with larger sample sizes a...
A geologist is working with an international committee to develop an emergency plan for Quito, Ecuador, which sits near an active volcano. The plan aims to educate the public and government officials on the dangers of volcanic eruptions and provide escape routes.
By creating a mode-locked silicon evanescent laser, researchers have demonstrated the ability to produce stable short pulses of laser light at high repetition rates, up to 40 GHz, suitable for high-speed data transmission and other optical applications.
Researchers at UC-Santa Barbara have built the world's first mode-locked silicon evanescent laser, paving the way for integrated circuits that combine lasers and electronic functions on a single chip. This technology enables higher data transmission speeds, lower power consumption, and more compact devices.
A new study published in the Journal of Human Lactation has found that exclusively breastfed newborns tend to lose less weight than formula-fed infants, which may be at risk of early overfeeding. Supplemented breastfed infants had similar weight loss patterns to exclusively breastfed newborns.
A new study found that genetic variation in the foraging gene can protect against heat-induced neural failure, leading to potential rapid protection of brain function during extreme fevers. Researchers suggest this could lead to ways to rapidly protect the brain from damage due to extremely high fevers in mammals, including humans.
Researchers at the University of Illinois Chicago have discovered a chemical compound, 2-aminoethyl phosphonate, in male blue crabs that is not present in females. The presence of this metabolite has significant implications for understanding animal development and biochemistry.
A study found that only about one in four children with hypertension had been previously diagnosed, highlighting the need for improved diagnosis and treatment strategies
A CAMH study reveals that Ontario and Quebec have lower concentrations of people with alcohol and drug problems, while provinces like Nova Scotia, Manitoba, and Saskatchewan have higher rates. Regional differences were attributed to factors such as immigration patterns, local culture, and policies.
Researchers at Ohio State University have developed a new microbial fuel cell that harnesses the power of cow waste to generate electricity. The small cell can produce about three times the power as its predecessor and is a quarter of its size, making it a promising alternative energy source.
A new study led by Professor Henry at Oxford Brookes University shows that low-GI breakfasts can lead to a reduction in calorie intake throughout the day. Children who ate low-GI breakfasts consumed approximately 60 kcal less during the day, equivalent to reducing calorie intake by 1800 kcal over a month.
ESA's Envisat and ERS-2 satellites track Hurricane Dean's path and strength, providing timely warnings with high-resolution cloud structure and wind field data. The satellites' instruments also measure sea surface temperature and height, allowing researchers to predict the hurricane's potential impact on the Yucatan Peninsula.
Researchers at the University of Liverpool have identified a molecule in the intestine that can detect sugar content, which could lead to new treatments for diabetes and obesity. The sweet taste receptor is not only present in the tongue but also in the intestine, allowing it to monitor dietary sugars.
A study published in PLOS ONE found that all eukaryotic kinases share a common set of substrates, suggesting that despite their diversity, these enzymes have similar functions. This discovery may improve the testing of drugs targeting protein kinases for various diseases.
Researchers developed a genetic dosing model to predict optimal warfarin dose for patients undergoing orthopedic surgery. The model combines genotype information with clinical factors to estimate therapeutic dosage.
A laboratory study found that cranberry compounds can sensitize human ovarian cancer cells resistant to platinum drugs, potentially improving chemotherapy effectiveness. The active compounds, called 'A-type' proanthocyanidins, appear to bind and block tumor promoter proteins in ovarian cancer cells.
Researchers have created a biological detergent that can be turned on and off depending on its application, offering potential solutions for improving laundry efficiency and reducing irritation in eye care products. The 'switchable' detergent has broad applications across various industries, including personal care and oil extraction.
A new sewage screening test has been developed to track community-wide drug abuse trends, providing a fast, reliable, and inexpensive way to estimate illicit drug use. The method analyzes drug residues and metabolites in urine flushed into municipal sewage treatment plants.
Researchers compared on-demand and planned relaparotomy strategies for patients with severe secondary peritonitis. The study found that on-demand strategy reduced health care utilization, ICU stays, and hospital stays, while also decreasing direct medical costs.