Researchers have identified a genetic risk factor for rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and lupus, with the STAT4 gene variant linked to increased disease risk in both conditions. The study suggests a shared disease pathway between RA and lupus, paving the way for potential new therapies targeting this pathway.
A recent study found that chronic pain patients taking opioid therapy are at a higher risk of developing sleep apnea. The research, published in Pain Medicine, suggests a direct dose-response relationship between central sleep apnea and methadone and benzodiazepines.
A study published by AAAS suggests that Israeli Acute Paralysis Virus (IAPV) is a potential cause of Colony Collapse Disorder (CCD), a phenomenon where adult bees disappear from hives. Researchers found molecular signs of IAPV associated with CCD, but stressors like poor nutrition and pesticide exposure are also likely involved.
The Buck Institute launches Geroscience, a new interdisciplinary field focused on the interface of normal aging and age-related disease. Researchers will employ novel approaches to studying diseases in the context of aging.
A study using a DNA microarray technology, Virochip, detected an unexpected number of viruses and viral subtypes in patients with respiratory tract infections. The technique identified new viruses associated with human diseases, including asthma exacerbations.
Researchers found that Metformin improves glucose uptake and survival of early embryos in mice with insulin resistance. The drug may benefit women with type 2 diabetes or polycystic ovary syndrome trying to conceive. Improved embryo quality could lead to more successful pregnancies.
Temple University's Department of Emergency Medicine is participating in a nationwide study to identify the best outpatient therapy for community-acquired MRSA, a growing concern with antibiotic-resistant properties. The research aims to determine effective treatments and gain FDA approval for generic antibiotics.
Forty SMEs in the West Midlands region have won innovation vouchers to collaborate with 13 UK universities, receiving £3000 each. The INDEX project aims to create a positive link between SMEs and universities, generating real innovation.
Researchers have sequenced the genome of Fusarium graminearum, a fungal plant pathogen that causes devastating blight in wheat and barley crops. The study reveals unstable regions of the genome where disease-causing genes reside, providing insights into the fungus's ability to evolve and adapt.
A new study from the University of Michigan Comprehensive Cancer Center found that nearly half of women with breast cancer experience musculoskeletal issues while taking aromatase inhibitors. Up to 15% of patients stop treatment due to these side effects, highlighting a need for interventions to manage symptoms.
A new study suggests that PPAR-gamma agonists, used to treat diabetes, may cause heart failure due to fat accumulation and cell dysfunction. Increased activity of the receptor leads to glucolipotoxicity, a condition characterized by deterioration in heart function.
A new technique to diagnose hearing loss is being developed at Purdue University, reflecting more natural listening situations with visual cues. The research aims to improve therapy and interventions, such as cochlear implants, for individuals with hearing loss.
Researchers used atom probe tomography to observe distributions of individual dopant atoms in semiconductor devices, finding clusters around defects that persist even after thermal treatment. This limits the scalability of semiconductor devices.
Researchers studied the molecular mechanisms of successful HIV antibodies and found that Fc receptors play a crucial role in preventing infection. The study's findings may lead to the design of tailor-made vaccines that have never been done before.
Research suggests that ghrelin improves thymic mass and T cell output with increased diversity of the TCR repertoire in mice, highlighting its potential as a therapeutic approach to boost immune function in elderly or immunocompromised individuals.
Scientists engineered mice with a single mutation in the neuroligin-3 gene to study autism spectrum disorders (ASDs), finding improved spatial learning and memory while impairing social interactions. The mouse model may help understand how specific defects in neural development lead to ASDs.
A recent study published in The Lancet found that unmet mental health treatment needs vary widely between countries, with lower proportions of respondents using services in developing countries. The study suggests that addressing these gaps will require expanded treatment resources and targeted interventions.
A new study suggests that newer antidepressants are likely to reduce suicide risk in teens, contrary to earlier warnings. The researchers found a significant protective benefit from these medications, with only a small group of people being adversely affected.
Researchers have successfully grown cartilage-like cells from human embryonic stem cells using the Rice method. The study's results mimic different types of cartilage found in the human body, such as hyaline articular cartilage and fibrocartilage.
The university's Task Force for Obesity Research will tackle key molecular pathways, develop new approaches to prevent obesity and treat associated metabolic complications. Researchers will use data from the Dallas Heart Study and provide interdisciplinary training for postdoctoral fellows.
Researchers can now investigate the relationship between eyewall lightning outbreaks and hurricane strength using highly-sensitive sensors thousands of miles from the storm. The study, supported by NASA and the U.S. Office of Naval Research, uses data from a network of new sensors to improve hurricane forecasts and potentially save lives.
An international team of researchers has identified three new genes associated with rheumatoid arthritis, including TRAF-C5 and STAT4. The study analyzed the genomes of over 1,500 patients and 1,850 controls, revealing a broader understanding of the disease's genetic mechanisms.
Researchers discover ghrelin promotes thymopoiesis during aging, boosting T cell output, while also finding PPAR-gamma agonists exacerbate cardiac dysfunction due to glucolipotoxicity. Additionally, a study finds osteopontin deficiency in mice leads to improved insulin sensitivity despite obesity.
Genomic imprinting evolved in a stepwise, adaptive way, with genes becoming imprinted as needed. The study provides important clues about the evolution of imprinting, despite its complex nature.
Leading UK funders launch initiative to support research using patient record databases, citing potential for improved public health measures. The effort aims to build confidence among the general public in the use of personal data for health research purposes.
A recent study found that ethnic minority women can be persuaded to take part in research studies. The factors leading to high retention rates included financial compensation and close communication with researchers. Researchers should tailor their strategies to fit different target groups.
Researchers found that levels of CUGBP1 increase early in affected cells, playing a key role in the disorder. Myotonic dystrophy type 1 is associated with increased binds of muscleblind like (MBNL) protein, trapping genetic material and regulating gene expression.
A review of quality improvement curricula suggests that QI projects may not necessarily improve patient outcomes. However, programs that provide ongoing access to performance data, teach small steps of trial and error, and offer active guidance from QI experts can lead to more positive patient outcomes.
The World Antimalarial Resistance Network (WARN) aims to provide a globally co-ordinated effort to tackle malaria. The network will facilitate worldwide monitoring and characterisation of drug resistance, including clinical efficacy, in vitro response, molecular markers, and pharmacological properties.
A new study led by Dr. Mary S. Mittelman found that enhanced counseling and support for Alzheimer's caregivers preserves their physical health and eases depression. The intervention improved self-reported health within four months of enrollment, lasting over a year.
The Brazilian Atlantic forest has lost 95% of its original size, but researchers have found 'refugia' where the forest is still thriving. These regions may hold the secrets to regenerating the ecosystem.
A study found that hepatitis C and B virus infections are spreading less quickly among injection drug users in San Francisco. This decrease is attributed to reduced needle-sharing, a common method of transmission.
A Queensland University of Technology study found that Australian parents administer medication incorrectly and overly frequently when it comes to managing childhood fever. The study revealed that 4% of parents gave paracetamol too often and 32% administered ibuprofen at incorrect intervals.
Researchers found that high levels of Amyloid-beta induce seizure-like activity in learning and memory centers, leading to cognitive impairments. The study provides new insights into the development of Alzheimer-related cognitive decline and potential therapeutic strategies.
Researchers discovered that nerve growth factor (NGF) is positively related to liver cancer and may be expressed by liver cells to affect themselves or adjacent cells. Targeting NGF could suppress or prevent the development of liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma.
Researchers have found that the protective coat of superbug Clostridium difficile can self-assemble into regular shapes, opening up new avenues for fighting hospital superbugs and commercial applications in nanotechnology. This discovery could lead to identifying weaknesses in the coats or discovering new target molecules.
Scientists have developed a new 'knock-out' gene model that provides molecular clues to breast cancer, focusing on the role of estrogen receptors in mammary gland development. The study suggests that estrogen expression is essential for normal duct development during puberty, pregnancy and lactation.
Higher consumption of sugar-sweetened drinks may be associated with insulin resistance, but not 100 percent fruit juice. Study participants who consumed two or more sugar-sweetened beverages per day had significantly higher fasting blood levels of insulin.
A Cardiff University study found that removing indoor mold improved asthma symptoms, with a significant decrease in inhaler use and improvement of other respiratory issues. The study suggests keeping homes dry and well-ventilated can reduce exposure to mold spores.
A McGill University study has discovered that a new class of serotonin receptor agonists can take effect four to seven times faster than existing selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). This breakthrough has the potential to significantly improve treatment outcomes for patients with depression.
A team of engineers from Purdue University and Lockheed Martin Corp. developed a new technique to extend the service life of two communications satellites, saving $60 million for broadcasters. The technique equalizes propellant levels in all four fuel tanks, preventing premature shutdown and waste.
A recent study reviews the current state of public knowledge on biotechnology, revealing popular misperceptions and scientific illiteracy. The article emphasizes the need for a rational public debate to discuss risks and benefits of agricultural biotechnology.
Researchers at the Salk Institute have identified TORC2 as a crucial biochemical control point linking feeding, insulin, and elevated blood sugar production in the liver. The study found that insulin turns off the CREB/TORC2 switch during feeding, highlighting potential drug targets for type II diabetes treatment.
Researchers discovered moray eels use a second set of jaws to grab food, then bring it back to the esophagus for swallowing. This unusual feeding behavior is unlike most fish, which rely on suction.
Researchers at UNC Chapel Hill School of Medicine have identified neurexin as essential for synapse growth, maintenance, and function. The study in Drosophila fruit flies may lead to insights into autism spectrum disorders and human neurological disorders.
The US Department of Homeland Security is working on a comprehensive project to identify technologies and procedures to rapidly assess and repair levees. The goal is to limit trouble when a levee breaches or prevent such breaks from happening again, using innovative designs, materials, and approaches. The project aims to develop soluti...
The World Wildlife Fund and Allianz Foundation offer a national climate change education program for high school students displaced by Hurricane Katrina. The program aims to empower these students to address climate vulnerability in the Southeast US.
Researchers identified cadherin 23 and protocadherin 15 as crucial proteins in the conversion of physical cues to electrochemical signals. These proteins form a complex called 'tip links' on hair cells in the inner ear, which is believed to have a central function in converting physical cues into electrical impulses.
A study published in Neuron found a link between the toxic brain protein Aâ peptide and neuronal overexcitation, leading to compensatory rewiring of brain circuitry. This overexcitation can contribute to cognitive deficits in Alzheimer's disease. Researchers suggest blocking this overexcitation may prevent such neurological deficits.
Research finds strong correlation between cholera outbreaks and climate changes, including rainfall and Indian Oscillation Index. The study provides basis for early warning system and prevention measures.
Researchers have identified two key proteins, cadherin 23 and protocadherin 15, that join together at the precise location where sound vibrations are converted into electrical impulses in the ear. This discovery sheds light on the hearing process and may lead to more precise therapies for treating people with hearing loss.
A specific gene mutation, BRAF V600E, is associated with increased risk of recurrence and death in thyroid cancer patients. The mutation can help guide treatment options and follow-up care, including aggressive surgery and radioiodine therapy.
The National Research Council recommends the Joint Dark Energy Mission, supported by NASA and DOE, to study dark energy's role in the universe's expansion. The mission aims to map the sky with unprecedented resolution and study Type Ia supernovae to shed light on this mysterious entity.
Researchers develop wearable sensors that can detect and measure particles in the air, improving the ability to identify environmental exposures. The technology uses microfluidics and geographic information system technology to track specific exposures.
A UCLA/RAND study found that more than half of children with an HIV-infected parent are not consistently in that parent's custody. Children of HIV-infected parents face risks for behavioral and emotional problems, highlighting the need for stable homes to cope with HIV effects.
A new study by Ohio State University Medical Center found that nearly 40% of varsity athletes tested positive for exercise-induced asthma, including those without a prior history of the condition. The study highlights the need for routine diagnosis and management tools to detect this potentially serious condition among athletes.
A £5 million investment will introduce personalized medicine treatments tailored for each patient's unique genetic make-up. The project aims to reduce drug side-effects and improve treatment efficacy.
The conference examines the effects of Web 2.0 activities, including social networking sites, blogs, and wikis, on digital cultures and societies. Key findings highlight concerns over information chaos and decreased cultural value.
A large-scale virtual microscopy slide seminar is held with over 800 pathologists from Europe and worldwide participating. The event features digitized samples of rare cases and a European Virtual Microscopy Network for future collaboration.
Researchers at Tufts University discovered that the CodY protein regulates the genes controlling C. difficile toxin production, which kills human intestinal cells by causing them to burst open. This understanding opens the door for developing a drug that can prevent hospital patients from falling ill.