Researchers are exploring land-based 'black smoker' sites to gain insights into harnessing geothermal energy. The project, led by UC Davis, uses a deep drilling approach to study the interaction between hot rocks and fluids.
A new genetic study from the University of Iowa found that women are more likely than men to have altered serotonin processes related to depression. The study, which analyzed data from 192 individuals, suggests that genetic variations may play a role in tailoring antidepressant treatment for individual responders.
Researchers found that cocaine-addicted individuals have compromised sensitivity to monetary rewards, which may explain why they struggle to change their drug-taking behavior. The study suggests that this altered sensitivity to reward could be a key factor in the difficulty of modifying drug-taking behavior.
A recent study published in the British Medical Journal found that adults insured through Mexico's Seguro Popular program are more likely to receive antihypertensive treatment and have their blood pressure controlled than those without health insurance. Insured individuals had a 50% higher odds of receiving antihypertensive treatment, ...
Researchers at Mayo Clinic developed a simple approach to predict heart disease in rheumatoid arthritis patients, finding 85% of those 60-69 year olds had a 1 in 5 chance of developing serious cardiovascular events. The study emphasizes the importance of comprehensive cardiovascular risk assessment for all newly diagnosed patients.
The study of 12 Drosophila genomes provides novel insights into microRNA (miRNA) regulation, identifying 59 new miRNAs and revealing greater diversity in their role in gene expression. The analysis also reveals emergent gene function and post-transcriptional regulation mechanisms, with potential applications in human disease research.
A study reveals that marine vessel pollution causes approximately 60,000 premature cardiopulmonary and lung cancer deaths worldwide each year. The report estimates that the number of annual deaths from ship emissions could increase by 40 percent by 2012, with coastal regions in Asia and Europe being the most affected.
Mayo Clinic researchers will study renal vascular disease caused by atherosclerosis to find new ways to diagnose and treat the condition. The study aims to develop novel imaging tools to predict, detect, and evaluate the disease, with the goal of preventing renal deterioration.
Researchers at Oregon Health & Science University have discovered that a cough suppressant, dextromethorphan, reduces dyskinesias in rats. Additionally, a drug tested as a schizophrenia therapy, BMY-14802, has been shown to effectively curb the involuntary movements more so than dextromethorphan.
A large-scale comparative analysis of twelve fruit fly species reveals insights on gene evolution, functional elements, and a powerful approach to deciphering other genomes. The study identifies thousands of novel genes, evolutionary signatures, and systematically defines the functional parts of the fly genome.
A study by the University of Pittsburgh found that commercially sold white bass contained higher levels of mercury, arsenic, and selenium than those caught near former industrial areas. The pollutants were linked to coal-burning pollution through air emissions and water pollution.
A new study suggests that climate change will primarily impact the world's poor, who are least responsible for the problem, highlighting an ethical crisis. The research, led by Jonathan Patz, quantifies the relationship between carbon emissions and disease burden, revealing stark contrasts between developed and developing countries.
A study published in Archives of Sexual Behavior found that the brains of gay and straight men differ in terms of brain structure. Gay men tend to have a larger corpus callosum, a region responsible for communication between the two hemispheres of the brain.
The new standard assesses environmental-friendliness of carpet through five categories: public health and environment, energy and energy efficiency, bio-based or recycled materials, manufacturing, and reclamation. It aims to encourage manufacturers to develop environmentally preferable processes, practices, power sources, and materials.
Researchers Robert Schafer and Tirin Moore studied how the frontal eye field generates saccades, finding that attentional circuitry governs motor circuitry. The study used eyetracking and microstimulation to analyze saccade patterns, revealing a mechanism for attention to modulate saccade motor commands.
Patients with painful and progressive ankylosing spondylitis showed significant improvements in physical function and symptoms after golimumab treatment, with 51-66% achieving ASAS 20 or 40 at six months.
A recent clinical trial demonstrated that 50% of patients with active early rheumatoid arthritis achieved clinical remission after one year of treatment with ENBREL plus methotrexate. The study also showed significant improvements in symptoms and joint damage, setting a new standard for earlier treatment of RA.
Between 2002 and 2005, the number of children taking type-2 diabetes medications increased by 166% among girls aged 10-14. Obesity is a likely cause of this trend. Additionally, changes in prescribing behaviors and increased office visits are also possible explanations.
The Drosophila 12 Genomes Consortium's massive collaboration has revealed considerable flaws in the way human genome biologists identify genes, showcasing the importance of comparing closely-related species. The study found over 1,193 new protein-coding genes and hundreds of new functional elements across 12 fruit fly genomes.
The new 'Raider Amethyst' prairie verbena is a water-conserving wildflower bred to provide compact, dependable color in drought-tolerant landscapes. It reduces urban water usage by utilizing potable water-efficient plants like Raider Amethyst.
Scientists confirm tropical regions as key to global biodiversity, with a group of shellfish defying conventional patterns. Contrary to expectations, the Anomalodesmata group shows peak diversity in mid-latitudes, contradicting standard patterns.
Chronic cocaine exposure increases histone deacetylase 5, activating genes associated with addiction and depression. Stress also reduces HDAC5 function, leading to depressive-like symptoms in mice.
Researchers found that antibody responses to viruses like measles and mumps remain protective for several decades, even for life. This means people may not need booster shots as frequently as previously thought, potentially reducing unnecessary vaccinations.
A new imaging technique has enabled scientists to measure mouse satiety and hunger levels in the brain, offering a more objective understanding of why people become obese. The study used magnetic resonance imaging to observe neuronal activity in the hypothalamus area, revealing that certain neurons 'light up' when mice are hungry or full.
Researchers invent technology to accelerate Earth's own solution to greenhouse gas accumulation by removing CO2 from the atmosphere and transferring it to the ocean. The engineered weathering process can safely and permanently remove excess CO2 in a matter of decades, mitigating global warming.
CSIRO launches 'Terabyte Science' program to tackle massive data sets in astronomy, gene sequencing, and climate modeling. The initiative aims to develop new mathematical approaches and processes for scientists to stay competitive globally.
Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh Graduate School of Public Health found higher-than-acceptable levels of mercury and selenium in channel catfish from areas near a coal-fired power plant. Ingesting these fish can increase the risk of neurological disorders, birth defects, and developmental problems.
A study found that the brains of term infants with congenital heart disease are more similar to those of premature newborns than normal term infants, indicating impaired brain development before birth. The research suggests abnormal fetal circulation and lower oxygen levels may contribute to these impairments.
Two studies found that exercise training increases the growth of new muscle cells and blood vessels in weakened muscles of people with heart failure. The studies showed significant improvements in muscle cell regeneration and vasculogenesis, leading to better health status and increased exercise capacity.
Researchers at the University of Cambridge discovered that inactivating a specific gene in Erwinia carotovora bacteria severely impedes its ability to cause blackleg and soft rot in potatoes. This finding has significant implications for developing new anti-rot agents and pesticides.
David Farb's abstract details how antioxidants affect dopamine release from synaptosomes, suggesting potential for treating oxidative damage in neurodegenerative diseases. Antioxidants like glutathione and NAC may rapidly stabilize dopamine release, raising their therapeutic potential.
FIJI Water aims to reduce its carbon footprint by 25% and achieve a net positive impact on the environment through sustainable growth initiatives. The company has partnered with Conservation International to develop an ambitious multi-benefit carbon offset plan.
A CCNY-led team has received a $330,000 NSF grant to develop a tactile surface facilitating communication between visually impaired and blind persons and computers. The project aims to create an affordable device that can convey graphic information in real-time through touch.
Researchers developed a method to accelerate removal of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and store it in oceans for centuries, mimicking nature's natural weathering process. This new technology may counteract acidification of oceans threatening coral reefs and provide a feasible solution for reducing global warming.
Researchers at Burnham Institute for Medical Research have discovered that stimulation of the Wnt signaling pathway is essential for coronary vasculature formation. The study provides a new avenue for developing therapies for coronary artery disease, which is a leading cause of mortality in Western countries.
Researchers at Indiana University found that women's brains respond differently to male faces depending on the menstrual cycle stage. During ovulation, their brains show more activity in areas related to rewards and less activity in areas associated with inhibition. Additionally, training has been shown to improve balance in older adul...
The new analyses revealed that the vaccine showed no measurable efficacy, and among individuals with background immunity to the adenovirus vector, there were more HIV infections in the vaccinees as compared to those in the placebo group. The STEP data will continue to be analyzed to better understand these results.
The study provides unprecedented insights into the genetic diversity of fruit flies, enabling scientists to compare related species and track ancestry. By analyzing mitochondrial DNA sequences from 12 species, researchers have discovered highly conserved genes and rapid-evolving genes, shedding light on evolutionary adaptations.
Researchers found that severe respiratory viral infections induce an allergic-type immune response, leading to long-term changes in the airways of mice. Interfering with this process could potentially prevent childhood asthma.
Researchers developed a logical decision model to help women weigh the benefits of motherhood against its effects on career and social interests. The model suggests that having a child at a younger age may be better for women in their early careers, as taking a maternity leave has less impact on future career prospects.
Researchers have identified 20 major European carp breeding hot spots in Australia's Murray Darling Basin, which could be targeted for control measures to reduce carp numbers in regional waterways. The study found that heavy rain and floods enable the carp to disperse their larvae, supporting the larval drift theory.
Researchers found that extracts of channel catfish caught in polluted waters can activate estrogen receptors in breast cancer cells, leading to cell growth. The study suggests that pharmaceutical estrogens and xeno-estrogenic chemicals are contaminating local waterways.
In a Phase 3 biologic study, golimumab significantly improved joint and skin manifestations of psoriatic arthritis in patients with active disease. The treatment achieved primary and major secondary endpoints, demonstrating sustained improvements through six months.
Researchers from UC Davis and international partners aim to unlock geothermal energy potential in Iceland and the US. By studying high-pressure conditions and heat transfer processes, they hope to develop more efficient methods for extracting heat from rocks.
A global research consortium sequenced 12 closely related fruit fly species, revealing thousands of novel genes and functional elements. The study highlights how evolution has shaped the fruit fly genomes, shedding light on fundamental biological processes.
The University of Iowa team identified two key genes involved in moisture sensing, allowing fruit flies to detect subtle changes in humidity. This discovery provides crucial insights into the mechanisms of hygrosensation and its potential applications in understanding sensory processes.
A community-based weight control program, Girls Health Enrichment Multisite Studies (GEMS), demonstrated a significant reduction in the prevalence of obesity among 8-10 year old African-American girls for up to two years. The program's success was attributed to changes in dietary intake and education.
A new study published at the American Heart Association's Scientific Sessions found that cholesterol-lowering medication simvastatin can disrupt sleep patterns in some individuals. Researchers compared two types of statins and observed a significant adverse effect on sleep quality among those taking simvastatin.
A study of 454 patients with chronic-phase CML taking imatinib for over six years found a high estimated six-year survival rate of 76 percent and strong correlation between overall survival rates and cytogenetic response. The incidence of serious side effects was low, with no long-term new toxicities observed.
Researchers at the University of Virginia Health System have identified a key enzyme involved in the development of Type 1 diabetes. The discovery, centered on the 12/15-lipoxygenase gene, has significant implications for understanding and treating the disease, with potential applications for preventing or reversing Type 1 diabetes.
The UK's first independent Centre for Charitable Giving and Philanthropy has been established to support high-quality research and inform policy decisions on charitable giving. The centre will explore individual, corporate, and institutional giving, as well as its impact on social and economic inequalities.
New fly genomics research provides a comprehensive view of adaptive protein evolution, revealing the role of adaptation in evolution and human genome uniqueness. The study found that stretches of DNA with high variability in Drosophila simulans did not match up with areas of divergence between species.
The complete genomes of 12 Drosophila species were published in Nature, revealing genetic differences similar to those between humans and chickens. This research provides a less-biased view of evolutionary processes, enabling a better understanding of the human genome.
Researchers at the University of Oregon have identified the normal functioning of an RNA-regulating protein called muscleblind, which helps explain how myotonic dystrophy disease occurs. The study found that muscleblind binds to both normal and toxic forms of RNA, highlighting a key clue to understanding the disease.
Researchers found that caffeine reduced the rates of cerebral palsy and cognitive delay in preterm babies, with only 40% experiencing unfavorable outcomes by age two. The study involved over 2000 premature infants and showed significant long-term benefits of caffeine therapy.
A study found that athletes frequently take supplements without knowledge of their actual effects, leading to potential health risks. The research team recommends that education about supplement use become a required part of sport coach accreditation.