Researchers have developed an oral vaccine that can prevent mice from developing brain diseases similar to mad cow disease. The vaccine stimulates the immune system, resulting in delayed onset of symptoms even in mice with low antibody levels.
A recent US study reveals a downturn in breast cancer incidence rates above 45 years old starting in 1998/1999, consistent with reduced mammography utilization. The study suggests that the decline is partly due to the early benefit of decreased hormone replacement therapy (HRT) use.
A RAND Corporation report found mixed results from laboratory tests of Save the World Air's ZEFS device, suggesting its effectiveness in reducing tailpipe pollutants and increasing fuel efficiency is uncertain. Further testing is needed to confirm or refute the technology's performance.
A research team led by Neal Woodbury has uncovered a new view of photosynthesis, revealing the orchestrated movement of proteins on a millionth of a second. This discovery helps explain why changing the energetics didn't knock out photosynthesis, and offers lessons for improving organic solar cells.
A case report in The Lancet highlights the dangers of continued cocaine abuse on the heart, leading to dilated cardiomyopathy. After treatment, the patient's condition improved significantly, showing promise for recovery with abstinence.
Researchers discovered that nitric oxide and its derivatives, SNOs, control the functionality of beta adrenergic receptors in heart failure and asthma. The study found that these receptors can become desensitized over time, leading to reduced medication efficacy.
The study demonstrated similar release characteristics of the product to those found in previous studies of Alpharma's currently marketed KADIAN Capsules. The company is targeting an NDA filing for its abuse-deterrent product in the first half of 2008.
A study investigates the impact of methylphenidate on young ADHD drivers' ability to focus while navigating real-world distractions. The research team aims to determine if controlled-release stimulant medication improves driving performance in such situations.
Membrane proteins communicate structurally by altering their shape to perform specific tasks, such as channel proteins allowing the flow of ions. The membrane's elastic forces dictate protein formation and organization, revealing a new mechanism for cell signaling.
Researchers will continue to study the antiviral, anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting mechanisms of Echinacea and Hypericum. The center aims to improve understanding of the characteristics of extracts that contribute to human health benefits.
A new study by UCLA researchers suggests that current US control strategies for flu epidemics may not be effective and could even make outbreaks worse. The study found that providing free vaccinations to entire families can actually increase the frequency of severe epidemics due to decreased adaptability among household members.
Researchers found that diets high in fish, seafood, and grains reduce the risk of heart disease. Cholesterol buildup in lysosomes may contribute to heart disease, and restoring acidity could help clear arteries. A new link between Down Syndrome and Alzheimer's Disease was also discovered through cholesterol metabolism.
Bruce Stillman, Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory President and Cancer Center Director, has received the Curtin Medal for his pioneering work on DNA replication in cells. His research focuses on understanding illness, particularly cancer, and has contributed to knowledge of human virus replication and genome accuracy.
Researchers at UCLA have created a system to translate protein sequences into musical notes, with a 20-note range spanning over 2 octaves. The music is designed to be melodic and less 'jumpy,' making it more accessible to those who are visually impaired.
Research reveals national party politics in Europe remains uninterested in European affairs, leaving EU specialists without influence. Parties fail to adapt to EU integration due to economic and political reasons, resulting in limited resources dedicated to EU issues.
A team of experts approved ten new technologies for NASA's James Webb Space Telescope, which will allow scientists to study the first generation of stars and galaxies. The new tech includes microshutter arrays and wavefront sensing and control, reducing the risk of increased costs and schedule delays.
Researchers found that high dose radiotherapy (74 Gy) improved cancer control and reduced the need for additional hormone treatment compared to standard radiotherapy (64 Gy). The new conformal radiotherapy method minimized bowel side effects.
Researchers at the University of Manchester have successfully treated diabetic patients with MRSA-contaminated foot ulcers using green bottle fly larvae. The study found that all but one patient were cured within three weeks, significantly shorter than conventional treatment.
Scientists at Gladstone Institutes have discovered a new strategy to prevent acute and chronic brain diseases by reducing tau protein levels. The study shows that mice lacking tau protein can resist seizures and Alzheimer's-related memory loss.
Scientists at EMBL discovered that microtubule interactions with the cell cortex drive asymmetric cell division in nematode worms. The study reveals a pulling force generated by cortical filaments, which could apply to other organisms and contexts such as stem cell renewal.
A new study by NSF shows that undergraduate students who participate in hands-on research are more likely to pursue advanced degrees and careers in STEM fields. The study's findings indicate that carefully designed undergraduate research experiences motivate students, making them effective previews of doing STEM graduate work.
Researchers have created a unique computer model that can bend electromagnetic radiation around an object, making it appear invisible from close range. This breakthrough uses light waves rather than beams, and could potentially be used in military technology such as fighter jets and submarines.
A study of 187 two-year-old children found that those whose mothers took valproate during pregnancy had a higher risk of lower IQ. Children exposed to valproate showed an IQ in the mental retardation range at a rate of 24%, compared to 12% for carbamazepine and phenytoin, and 9% for lamotrigine.
A study published in PLOS Computational Biology reveals that noise effects in ion channels are much larger than previously assumed, compromising the fidelity of neural transmission. The researchers used detailed models and simulations to demonstrate how channel noise destroys information in action potentials.
Martin Kassabov, a leading researcher in combinatorial algebra and group theory, has been awarded the prestigious AMS Centennial Fellowship. The fellowship will support his visit to collaborators in Europe, furthering his work on representation theory and expander graphs.
Researchers have developed a new form of platinum nanocrystals with improved catalytic activity, enabling more efficient fuel oxidation and hydrogen production. The nanocrystals, with tetrahexahedral structures, remain stable at high temperatures and can be controlled in size, making them suitable for industrial use.
Migraines significantly impact employers, resulting in $28.7 billion annual losses. Employers who screen for and treat migraines may see improved productivity, reduced absenteeism, and lower costs.
A recent study found that coral reef fish hatchlings can successfully return to their home reefs, with about 60% of young clownfish and butterflyfish making it back. The research also showed significant exchange between populations separated by open sea, highlighting the importance of marine protected areas.
Researchers found that Photorhabdus produces a special phenoloxidase inhibitor to protect itself against an enzyme used by insects' immune systems. This discovery provides conclusive evidence for a gene-for-gene interaction between the bacterium and the insect, shedding light on insect immune systems.
A recent study found that STAMP2 plays a crucial role in preventing chronic inflammation and metabolic diseases by regulating nutrient responses. The protein acts as a barrier to protect the body against excessive nutrients, helping to maintain metabolic homeostasis.
University of Iowa researchers have identified a genetic mutation in sperm cells that contributed to autism in two daughters. The study provides insight into how this mutation affects the glutamate synapse and may lead to diagnostic and therapeutic tools.
Tuberculosis screening in UK areas with high migrant populations can significantly increase active and latent form diagnoses, as well as BCG vaccination rates. Detection rates for both forms of the disease were found to be higher in practices with screening programmes compared to control groups.
Researchers investigate interest in genetic testing among healthy young adults and its impact on healthcare decisions. Participants receive free multiplex genetic testing, which detects variants of genes linked to various diseases.
The study identifies a cluster of essential genes on mouse chromosome 11 that are highly conserved across species, including humans. This finding suggests that there may be rules governing the structure and organization of chromosomes.
Toddlers with ASD show unusual attention patterns when viewing faces, spending more time on eyes than other features. They have difficulty recognizing familiar faces, but exhibit improved performance when adopting typical facial scanning patterns.
A study published in PLoS ONE has identified a protein in the brain, alpha-spectrin, as a target for antibodies in children with cerebral malaria. The discovery could lead to the development of a predictive test to improve patient care.
Children exposed to higher levels of alcohol advertising are more likely to drink and intend to drink in the future, according to a RAND Corporation study. Parents can influence their children's behavior by discussing alcohol marketing techniques and encouraging critical thinking about ads.
A study of over 8,300 runners found that maintaining vigorous exercise helps prevent extreme weight gain, a significant risk factor for high blood pressure, diabetes, and other diseases. Regular running reduces waist circumference and hip size in women, while also combating age-related weight gain.
A new study from Harvard Medical School identifies p63 as the master regulator of epithelial stem cells, which are essential for tissue regeneration and have implications for cancers such as breast, prostate, and skin. The findings show that p63 imparts 'stemness' to regenerative cells, maintaining a steady pool of these cells.
Astronomers using the Global Oscillation at Low Frequency (GOLF) instrument on SOHO have detected possible long-sought oscillations on the Sun's surface. This finding provides insight into the Sun's core and its role in the formation of our solar system.
A recent study by Scripps Research Institute scientists has identified intercellular mechanisms as essential to maintaining cellular circadian clocks. The research highlights the importance of networked electrical and neurochemical interactions in sustaining cellular rhythms, offering new insights into the circadian clock's operation.
David F. Weeks receives the ARVO Kupfer Award for his contributions to eye research and leadership at Research to Prevent Blindness. The award recognizes his efforts to increase funding for the National Eye Institute, which has provided significant support for vision research over nearly 50 years.
Implementing NICE-recommended smoking cessation interventions can benefit employees' health and employers' businesses. The interventions include short counselling sessions, nicotine replacement therapy, and group therapy to help smokers quit, resulting in reduced lost productivity and improved public health.
Research suggests that Iraq veterans with migraines are more likely to also have symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder, depression, or anxiety. The study found a significant association between migraine headaches and psychiatric conditions in soldiers returning from deployment.
The Immune Tolerance Network, a seven-year-old international consortium, has secured significant NIAID funding to develop new therapies for autoimmune diseases. The network's focus on immune tolerance and biological markers aims to create individually targeted treatments.
Researchers have found strong evidence that Mercury's core is molten, a discovery that could explain the planet's weak magnetic field. The study used a novel technique to detect tiny twists in Mercury's spin, which occurred as the sun's gravity exerted alternating torques on the planet.
A new report suggests that ocean warming may cause changes to the planet's rotation, potentially shortening the length of day by approximately 0.12 milliseconds. Additionally, researchers have found a link between seasonal seismicity in the Himalayas and fluid infiltration, which could modulate earthquake generation.
A recent study reveals that sediments in New Orleans and Lake Pontchartrain are contaminated with fecal microbes, which persisted before the hurricanes and continue to impact water quality. The researchers recommend further investigation into the risks of exposure to human pathogens through contact with these sediments.
Researchers have pioneered a new way to study fish populations by 'tagging' adult fish with a harmless isotope, enabling them to understand the extent to which young fish return to their 'home' area or go off to interbreed. The findings reveal that around 60% of juvenile clownfish returned to the home reef, while 40% came from distant ...
The study found that females have higher levels of nitric oxide synthase, which may contribute to their lower risk of kidney disease. In contrast, males have more AT1 receptors that enable angiotensin 2 to cause damage, leading to a greater risk of hypertension and kidney injury.
Researchers found new mathematical evidence that string theory's predictions mesh closely with gauge theory, which underlies the interactions among quarks and gluons. This breakthrough could open up uses for string theory in describing atomic nuclei and everyday matter.
Researchers have identified how the brain's dorsal premotor cortex (PMd) compensates for disruption caused by a stroke. The study found that the PMd in the intact hemisphere increases activity to 'rescue' function in the damaged hemisphere, leading to recovery of movement.
The discovery of the TRPM8 gene, led by Scripps Research Institute's Ardem Patapoutian, reveals that this single gene is responsible for most cool temperature sensations. The study shows that activation of TRPM8 triggers cold sensation and may lead to new treatments to ease pain.
Researchers at the University of Buffalo have developed a device that can rapidly detect infectious viruses in biological samples. The innovation uses nanoparticles to transport viral particles to specific locations, allowing for quick detection and paving the way for an 'on-the-spot' virus detector.
Preserving kidneys on a portable pump may improve initial function, reduce viral infections, and promote more organ sharing. The study found similar survival outcomes for patients receiving machine-preserved or cold-stored organs from older deceased donors.
A UC Irvine study found that certain antibiotics reduce bacteria in ticks, leading to retarded growth and reduced reproduction. The discovery could lead to safer and more effective ways to control ticks and the diseases they transmit.
Researchers used 2-D spectroscopy to study a bacteriochlorophyll complex and detected 'quantum beating,' where light-induced excitations meet and interfere constructively. This discovery explains the extreme efficiency of energy transfer in photosynthesis.
A chemist at Washington University in St. Louis has developed a technique that allows for the simultaneous monitoring of up to 12,000 molecules on an electrochemically addressable computer chip. The method uses a polymer substrate and confining agents to selectively initiate chemical reactions on individual electrodes.
Two studies found that eating eggs for breakfast can lead to significant weight loss and improved energy levels. Additionally, eggs are an excellent source of choline, essential for brain function and development, and may help close the nutrient consumption gap among pregnant women and older adults.
Kansas State University researchers are developing robots to search for weapons of mass destruction and improvised bombs, using intelligent sensor networks and autonomous capabilities. The robot teams will be able to adapt to changing environments and team goals.