Researchers discover a poorly understood mechanism linking smoking to lung damage, where toxins in cigarette smoke open unpaired hemichannels that lead to rapid cell death. Drugs preventing hemichannel opening offer new ways to prevent cellular damage and potentially treat diseases tied to oxidative stress.
A study published in Archives of Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine found that 3- to 5-year-old children preferred the taste of McDonald's-branded chicken nuggets over identical, unbranded versions. The degree of preference correlated with the number of TVs in their homes and frequency of eating at McDonald's.
The NanoSensor StageGate Accelerator will accelerate the development of innovative nanoscale-enabled products supporting the US Army's transition and applications in aerospace, energy, and transportation. Funding will enable commercialization opportunities and create high-tech jobs in New York State.
A new study predicts that Americans' 401(k) plans will be substantially wealthier in real terms by 2040, even if stock market returns are lower than historical values. The research found that future retirees will likely have more assets due to longer working careers and the shift towards 401(k) plans.
A decision aid for patients with diabetes was developed by Victor Montori and colleagues, enabling them to make informed choices about statin use. The tool created a conversation about medications, allowing patients to weigh the benefits and risks of statins.
Researchers have found a clear link between Alzheimer's disease and glaucoma, with key proteins implicated in both conditions. Novel drugs targeting these proteins may be used to treat glaucoma, opening up new avenues for treatment beyond intraocular pressure control.
A University of Illinois study confirms that investing time and energy in youth activities and taking on a leadership role are key to maximizing their benefits for teens. Participation time is more important than the activity itself, according to the research.
The new UC San Diego model can create life-like milk images based on fat and protein content, and work backwards to determine the composition of a material. This technology has potential applications in food safety, atmospheric science, and diagnostic medicine.
Researchers found that individuals with a high fear of back pain will exhibit unusual movement patterns to prevent exacerbation, which can ultimately weaken their muscles. This study aims to inform the development of new treatments for backaches, a common condition affecting eight out of ten adults.
A study published in Archives of Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine found that preschoolers aged 3-5 preferred the taste of foods and drinks in McDonald's packaging to identical products in unbranded packaging. Children who watched more TV and ate more McDonald's food also showed a stronger preference for branded options.
Researchers found distinct compartments of fat in the face that age at varying rates, challenging previous theories on aging. This breakthrough offers new ways to rejuvenate the face and may hold clues to other diseases such as obesity, diabetes, and cancer.
A University of Pittsburgh study links changes in brain function to recovery in children and adolescents with concussions, using functional MRI scans. The findings confirm the importance of objective neuropsychological testing for safe return-to-play decisions.
A pioneering study has confirmed the relation between allele s in the serotonin transporter gene and exposure to threatening life events in the onset of depression. The research predicts a personalized approach to treating depression by tailoring antidepressant treatment to an individual's genetic configuration and environmental factors.
Researchers at Virginia Commonwealth University discovered that intrauterine devices (IUDs) are acceptable for women at high risk of sexually transmitted infections and pregnancy. The study, published in the American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology, found lower rates of complications and greater acceptability with the Mirena IUS.
A specific gene variant associated with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) may also predict better clinical outcomes and higher IQ in teens. The variant, called the 7-repeat version of the dopamine D4 receptor gene, is linked to thinner brain areas controlling attention but confers advantage only among youth with ADHD.
Eight scientists and one politician have been recognized by ASBMB for their groundbreaking work, advancing the field of biochemistry and molecular biology. The awards will be presented at Experimental Biology 2008 meeting in San Diego.
As glaciers melt, DNA of ancient microorganisms may return to life, potentially altering ecosystems. The duration the DNA remains intact depends on factors such as temperature and oxygen levels.
Adults with ADHD show blunted response to methylphenidate, suggesting dopamine dysfunction may contribute to ADHD symptoms. Reduced dopamine activity is also associated with increased substance abuse in individuals with ADHD.
A team of researchers defined how metal ions bind to amyloid fibrils in the brain, appearing toxic to neurons. The findings suggest that only one way of binding appears toxic, while others may be harmless.
The Hypertension in the Very Elderly Trial (HYVET) found that lowering blood pressure significantly reduces both stroke and mortality in patients aged 80 and over. The trial, which began in 2001, involved 3,845 patients from across the world and stopped early due to significant reductions in overall mortality.
TrES-4 is the largest known exoplanet, about 70% bigger than Jupiter but less massive, making it a planet of extremely low density. It orbits its host star in three and a half days and is very hot due to its close proximity.
Researchers are working to understand regional climate change in North America, using models to predict impacts on agriculture and weather patterns. The Iowa State team has observed increased annual precipitation by about an inch over the past 30 years, which could be beneficial for Midwest agriculture.
A study found a gene variant associated with thinner brain tissue in areas handling attention, but also better clinical outcomes among individuals with ADHD. The 7-repeat form of the dopamine D4 receptor gene was linked to improved symptoms and regained brain thickness in affected individuals.
Researchers at the University of Illinois Chicago College of Pharmacy will conduct four projects to discover new medicines for bioterrorism and other infectious diseases. The Institute for Advanced Pharmaceutical Sciences will also explore natural products for therapeutic potential against anthrax and other pathogens.
A four-year study found that sunn hemp cover crop significantly reduces contamination levels of atrazine and its products in groundwater. The use of sunn hemp can help mitigate the risk of groundwater contamination in Southern Florida, where soil and water conditions indicate potential for leaching from atrazine-based herbicides.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine developed an electrical device that partly restores damaged sense of balance in animals. The multichannel vestibular prosthesis mimics inner ear function and can measure head rotation in all directions, partially regaining vision-stabilizing reflexes in tested chinchillas.
A landmark nationwide study found that 17% of mother-infant pairs were identified as 'not ready' for postpartum discharge. The study identified several factors, including being a first-time mother, history of chronic disease, and inadequate prenatal care, as contributing to unreadiness.
A nationwide study led by UCSF provides evidence that inhaled nitric oxide is safe and effective in preventing chronic lung disease in very premature infants. The study found no adverse effects of inhaled nitric oxide on surfactant production or function, suggesting a potential beneficial effect.
Researchers at Virginia Commonwealth University identified two key proteins, KLF2 and EKLF, that regulate overlapping groups of genes during red blood cell development. The study may lead to future gene therapies for sickle cell anemia and beta-thalassemia.
Researchers explore 'tipping points' in agriculture, highlighting the need to understand regime shifts to sustain ecosystem functions. The symposium identifies potential tipping points related to water and agriculture that could have major global consequences.
Researchers at Albert Einstein College of Medicine measure transcription stages in real-time, revealing inefficient first two stages with only 1% polymerases remaining. Elongation phase takes 517 seconds, while pausing and rapid synthesis may regulate gene expression.
A study of over 10,000 women found that those who were obese prior to pregnancy had a higher risk of giving birth to babies with structural birth defects. The findings suggest a possible mechanism involving alterations in glycemic control, similar to those seen in women with diabetes.
A new study from Medical College of Wisconsin found that nearly two-thirds of Milwaukee County pharmacies struggle to communicate with patients who don't speak English. The analysis reveals a significant barrier to safe prescription use, particularly among vulnerable populations.
A study by University of Minnesota professors Arthur Reynolds and Judy Temple found that minority preschoolers from low-income families who participated in a comprehensive school-based intervention fared better educationally, socially and economically as they moved into young adulthood. They were more likely to finish high school, atte...
Two NIH-approved embryonic stem cell lines were found to generate distinct types of neurons, differing in synapse formation and neurotransmitter usage. The discovery highlights the influence of culture conditions on human ES cells' developmental properties.
A study published in Neurology found that women who drank more than three cups of coffee per day had less decline in memory over time. The benefits increased with age, with coffee drinkers being 30-70% less likely to experience memory decline.
A new genetic analysis suggests that the frog-killing fungus, Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis, may be a greater threat to mountain yellow-legged frogs due to its ability to spread over long distances and persist in the environment through sexual reproduction. This could make it harder to save the frogs from extinction.
Researchers at University of Oregon and US Geological Survey identified past activity clues for the Southern San Andreas Fault, ranking 316 event indicators. They also improved the accuracy of physics-based predictive earthquake simulations, enabling safer building designs.
Researchers found that less than a third of treatment guidelines are based on high-quality evidence, highlighting the need for transparent grading systems. The study concludes that clinicians should be aware of this limitation and apply guideline recommendations appropriately to individual patients.
A Cornell University study found that changing the label on a wine can significantly impact diners' perceptions of the wine and their overall meal experience. Diners who were given wine from California rated it higher in quality, enjoyed more of their meal, and were more likely to return to the restaurant.
A randomized controlled trial found that parents who received customized safety reports scored higher on child safety knowledge and reported better safety practices than those who received generic health reports. The study suggests that computer technology can be an effective tool in promoting child safety.
Researchers analyzed emergency department fever and respiratory complaint data to determine influenza-related morbidity by age. The study found that surveillance using electronic data can provide timely and representative information about circulating influenza viruses, with significant age-specific differences.
Researchers have identified microbial remains in ancient organic matter on Earth, dating back 3.5 billion years, using electron microscope techniques. The findings confirm the presence of primitive microbial communities, shedding light on the origins of life on Earth.
Researchers developed a single-particle technique to study small portions of semiconductor material at the nanoscale. The study found that 'deep traps' are formed in plastic semiconductors, which can decrease efficiency and cause defects. This breakthrough could lead to improved devices made from these materials.
A research team has identified a genetic deficiency that causes severe blindness, specifically Leber Congenital Amaurosis (LCA). The discovery of the LCA5 gene and its protein lebercilin provides new opportunities for gene therapy, which could lead to the treatment of this disease in humans.
Researchers use simultaneous measurements to investigate electron-electron interactions near the metal-insulator transition, revealing a quantum critical point and temperature-dependent interaction strength. The study provides a theory that quantitatively explains phenomena in two-dimensional systems.
A new analysis of rosiglitazone data found an uncertain heart risk, while a study on geriatric conditions revealed they are common among adults 65+ and increase with age. Counseling programs about preventing car accident injuries showed inconclusive evidence.
Researchers discovered that blood levels of protein ST2 indicate the presence of heart failure and predict the risk of death, even among patients without heart failure. A combination of ST2 with other biomarkers provides the most accurate prediction for all study participants.
The study aims to explore the genetics of the coconut to infer historical relationships among populations. The research will focus on understanding the plant's ancient dispersal, geographical origin of domestication, and impact of human activities on population structure.
The revised guidelines introduce changes to the initial diagnostic approach, recommending a non-invasive set of preliminary tests such as stress tests or echocardiograms. The new guidelines also emphasize the importance of more intense lipid and blood pressure control, as well as the use of anti-platelet therapy clopidogrel for at leas...
Researchers found that green tea slowed skin cell growth and regulated genes involved in skin cell life cycles, potentially treating psoriasis and dandruff. However, more human studies are needed to determine the full effects of this treatment.
A new study by UC-San Diego computer scientists found that 94% of spam-advertised online scams are hosted on individual web servers, not hundreds or thousands of compromised computers. The researchers used a new internet monitoring approach to analyze over one million spam emails and identified the hosting servers for these scams.
A Dartmouth economist projects steady growth in 401(k) retirement savings, citing the growing importance of personal savings plans. Most concerns about a pension crisis are overstated, with future retirees expected to have substantial wealth, five times that of current retirees.
A new study led by Virginia Commonwealth University researchers found that genetic factors play a crucial role in shaping how individuals choose their peer groups. The study suggests that genes become increasingly important as individuals develop, potentially influencing their risk for future substance use or deviant behaviors.
A UCF team led by Kiminobu Sugaya has discovered a compound, phenserine, that reduces plaque buildup in Alzheimer's disease. This combination with stem cell transplantation triggers neuron regeneration, offering hope for patients. Further research, including clinical trials, is needed to confirm its effectiveness.
Astronomers have witnessed the rare sight of four galaxies crashing into each other, kicking up billions of stars and forming a single, massive galaxy. The merger, observed using NASA's Spitzer Space Telescope and WIYN Telescope, provides unprecedented insight into how the most massive galaxies in the universe form.
University of Washington scientists track six penguins' movements using satellite technology to model energy requirements, understand breeding habits, and assess impact of human activities on their migration route. The project aims to improve conservation efforts for the Magellanic Penguin species.
A new study reveals that 23% of hospital-based physicians in China are smokers, significantly higher than the global average. The study prompts China CDC to initiate an antismoking campaign aimed at physicians and medical students.
A comprehensive school-based intervention improved educational, criminal, and economic outcomes for low-income minority children from preschool to young adulthood. The program showed significant positive effects on health and well-being, reducing arrests and disability assistance rates.