Researchers discovered a molecular alarm system in the skin that detects defects and triggers an immune response, leading to potentially harmful effects. The study found that genetic abnormalities in the skin can lead to an overproduction of white blood cells, which can be life-threatening.
Researchers identified regulatory sequences that act like zip codes, determining where odour receptors are expressed in olfactory neurons. These elements positively and negatively regulate receptor expression, suggesting a broader role in nervous system development.
Researchers at Delft University of Technology have demonstrated the avalanche effect in semiconducting nanocrystals, which could lead to higher output and lower manufacturing costs for solar cells. The findings show that specific crystals can release two or three electrons per photon, potentially increasing output to 44%.
Scientists at Karolinska Institutet have developed a new, cheaper DNA-sequence method that can map disease genes in large patient groups, leading to quicker breakthroughs for new treatments.
Consuming cocoa flavanol-rich beverages daily can positively impact blood vessel dysfunction associated with type-2 diabetes. A 30-day trial found a 30% improvement in measured vessel function among participants who regularly consumed a flavanol-rich beverage.
Researchers found that adding noninvasive imaging to risk-assessment protocols increased the number of people classified as high risk for heart disease. This approach is proposed by the Screening for Heart Attack Prevention and Education task force, which aims to identify more patients who could benefit from cholesterol-lowering therapy.
Researchers found that short-term use of antipsychotics in older adults with dementia increases the risk of hospitalization or death. Atypical and conventional antipsychotics both carry a significant risk of serious adverse events, with the former being three times more likely to cause harm than the latter.
Research found that individuals with gum disease have an increased risk of various cancers, including lung, kidney, and pancreatic cancers. Gum disease was associated with a 14% higher overall cancer risk compared to those without gum disease.
Low testosterone levels in men are often untreated, even among those with sufficient healthcare access, according to a study of Boston-area men. Despite this, treated and untreated men report similar healthcare visits, suggesting barriers may lie in diagnosis or prescription issues.
Indigenous Australians are more likely to have preventable cancers, such as lung and liver cancer, with poorer prognosis and late diagnosis. Improving tobacco control and health services is crucial to reducing cancer burden.
Researchers found that carrying alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency increases lung cancer risk in smokers and nonsmokers, with the genetic disorder explaining up to 12% of lung cancer patients. Individuals who carry the gene should be screened for lung cancer and avoid potential carcinogens.
A genetic disorder previously associated with lung disease may also increase lung cancer risk, according to a study. Researchers found that carriers of the disorder had a 70-100% increased risk of lung cancer compared to non-carriers.
A study found that nearly half of heart disease patients have poor knowledge about heart attack symptoms, which can lead to delayed treatment and reduced survival rates. The researchers suggest that targeted education efforts during medical office visits can help improve knowledge and outcomes for these high-risk patients.
Researchers found that 'flat' carbonated drinks lack essential salts and sugars for oral rehydration solution. They contain too much sugar and not enough sodium and potassium, making them an inadequate alternative.
Research suggests that high-flavanol cocoa can improve blood vessel function in people with type 2 diabetes, rivaling the benefits of exercise and common medications. Flavanols may help increase nitric oxide production, reducing artery stress and promoting cardiovascular health.
Researchers at Emory University developed an intrabody that binds to mutant huntingtin, reducing clumps and alleviating motor problems in mice. The study suggests a strategy for dissecting harmful effects of protein aggregates in other neurodegenerative diseases.
Scientists discover a new gene, sphinx, in Drosophila melanogaster that regulates male-male courtship behavior. The absence of the gene leads to increased male-male interaction and altered mating habits.
Researchers at Heidelberg University Hospital have discovered a new approach to immunize against certain types of cancer. They found that immune cells react strongly to modified proteins in tumor cells with DNA repair defects, which are present in around 15% of all tumors.
A new study predicts that buckyballs can easily absorb into animal cells, providing a possible explanation for their toxicity. The molecules were found to dissolve in cell membranes, pass into cells, and cause damage.
A new guideline developed by the American Academy of Neurology found that vertigo can be effectively treated with simple head and body movements. The Epley maneuver was deemed safe and effective for people of all ages, while restrictions on activity after treatment were not supported.
Using total internal reflection microscopy, researchers have observed hundreds of thousands of molecules coming together to form a single HIV particle. The technique allows scientists to study the assembly process in real-time and gain insights into viral behavior.
Scientists have identified CAML as a human host restriction to HIV release, which can now be overcome by Vpu. This discovery may lead to new treatments for HIV, as researchers are working on defining the mechanism and developing therapies.
Scientists analyzed 15 major earthquakes and found at least 12 triggered small quakes hundreds to thousands of miles away. The study shows large earthquakes routinely trigger smaller jolts globally, contradicting previous assumptions that seismically active regions were most vulnerable.
A University of Rochester team has identified approximately 100 genes that cooperate to cause malignant cell transformation, providing a potential roadmap for next-generation cancer therapies. These genes, known as CRGs, encode proteins that regulate cell signaling and metabolism.
Researchers found that college students who used interactive career websites were more likely to apply to companies, and attributed meaning to the site based on its features. The study suggests that organizations can control their public image by optimizing website interactivity for their target audience.
Researchers discovered that phospholipase C zeta (PLCZ1) promotes calcium oscillations in egg activation, but its nuclear translocation differs among species. Additionally, a study showed that exposure to polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) can disrupt reproductive markers in rats and their grand offspring.
A remote healthcare system with three main functions could address socioeconomic problems by providing quality medical care to all citizens, regardless of location. The system uses video conferencing, vital signs data uploading, and drip infusion monitoring to support nursing staff and care managers.
Researchers found that intermittent hypoxia treatment reduced myocardial infarction and lethal arrhythmias following coronary artery occlusion and reperfusion in dogs. The treatment also suppressed cardiac activity of nitric oxide synthase, a key enzyme involved in the production of harmful compounds.
University of Michigan researchers are accelerating the natural process of succession by removing mature aspen and birch trees to measure future carbon uptake in a large-scale experiment. This will help determine how much heat-trapping carbon dioxide forests of the Upper Midwest can remove from the air in coming decades.
The AIUM Consensus Report on Potential Bioeffects of Diagnostic Ultrasound provides in-depth analysis and recommendations for assessing the risks and benefits of diagnostic ultrasound. The report covers five bioeffect categories and builds upon a previous consensus conference held in 1998.
Genetic evidence reveals a significant shift in the timeline of human migration into Island Southeast Asia, forcing a reevaluation of existing theories. The research suggests that climate change and sea-level rise drove population expansions across the region, rather than agriculture-driven 'Out of Taiwan' model.
Computer fraud can result from incompetence, ignorance, negligence or deliberate misappropriation by employees, causing millions of dollars in damages. Educating managers on security issues can minimize opportunistic computer fraud, making them aware of social and technical issues that affect organizational structure.
Researchers at the University of Illinois have identified a novel toxin receptor for H. pylori, allowing the bacterium to survive in the human stomach. The discovery provides valuable insights into the mechanisms of H. pylori's survival and may lead to new therapeutic strategies.
A study published in Occupational Environmental Medicine found that men working as painters and decorators who are exposed to glycol ethers have poor semen quality. The researchers discovered that these workers have a 2.5-fold increased risk of having a low motile sperm count compared to those with low exposure.
A new study found that lone asylum-seeking children in the UK are more likely to have experienced high levels of war trauma and combat than those with adult carers. The research suggests that foster care can help reduce their suffering and lower post-traumatic stress symptoms.
Researchers found that sea buckthorn leaf extract reduced liver damage in rats, with significant protection observed at higher doses. The study suggests that the leaves' anti-oxidant properties may help ward off liver disease.
Researchers at Thomas Jefferson University have developed a new ultrasound technique that targets areas of increased blood flow in the prostate gland, significantly reducing the number of unnecessary biopsies. The study found that targeted biopsies were twice as likely to detect cancer compared to conventional methods.
A survey of college students revealed mixed opinions on the benefits and drawbacks of biotechnology in sustainable agriculture, with some supporting genetically modified crops and others expressing concerns over environmental and social impacts. The study suggests that educators should provide neutral exposure to both sustainable agric...
New research suggests two well-known crystal skulls, one in the British Museum and the Smithsonian Institution, did not come from ancient Mexico. The British skull was made in 19th century Europe, while the American one was created shortly before it was bought in Mexico City in 1960.
A new University of Illinois study found that public school students made significantly greater gains in math scores by fifth grade compared to their Catholic school peers. Public schools rivaled the performance of other non-Catholic private schools, suggesting they are at least as effective in promoting student learning over time.
A new study suggests that embryonic cells giving rise to connective and skeletal tissues of the skull and facial structures do not originate from the neural crest as previously believed. Instead, they come from a distinct thin layer of epidermal epithelial cells next to the neural crest.
Glowing films developed by UC San Diego chemists can quickly reveal trace amounts of nitrogen-based explosives, providing evidence in crime-solving. The technology uses fluorescent polymers that emit blue light under UV light, detecting minute amounts of explosives.
A new analysis suggests that healthy postmenopausal women with normal blood cholesterol levels are at no increased short-term risk for heart attack when taking hormone therapy. Women with a low LDL to HDL ratio have an even lower risk of heart attack or death from hormone therapy.
Researchers at North Carolina State University have successfully reinvigorated a failed HIV drug by adding gold nanoparticles, which enhances its binding capability and prevents the virus from gaining a foothold. This innovative approach offers new hope for treating HIV infection.
A recent study published in the journal Cancer found that pre-operative assessments by physical therapists can detect and treat lymphedema, a chronic condition caused by excess lymph fluid. The study showed that early detection and management can prevent the condition from progressing to a chronic stage.
The HORIZONS-AMI trial shows that bivalirudin reduces adverse clinical events by 24%, mortality by 33%, and cardiac mortality by 38% compared to heparin and GPI in heart attack patients. This is the largest study ever to focus on anticoagulant medications in STEMI patients undergoing primary PCI.
Researchers at Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh have identified Forkhead Box O1 (FoxO1) as a potential target for treating hypertriglyceridemia. Inhibiting FoxO1 in the liver curbs triglyceride secretion in obese and diabetic animals.
A team of scientists discovered that Vpx protein enables the AIDS virus to reproduce by facilitating reverse transcription in the simian virus life-cycle. The findings are significant as they suggest potential new strategies to prevent replication.
Researchers discovered that video games can boost creativity when players are highly energized and in a positive mood. Conversely, low arousal and negative emotions lead to the highest levels of creativity. The study suggests harnessing emotional elements in games to spark creative thought and problem-solving skills.
Researchers at UCLA identified a type of leukemia stem cell and uncovered the genetic mechanisms that cause normal blood stem cells to become cancerous. This discovery may lead to new therapies targeting these stem cells, potentially curing certain cancers.
A global map shows 'fire scars' on Earth's surface every year since the turn of the Millennium, revealing annual burns of 3.5-4.5 million km2 of vegetation. The data is vital for scientists monitoring global warming and managing forests.
A new study reveals the nitric oxide system plays a crucial role in regulating proteins and controlling cellular activity. The discovery opens up new avenues for biochemical research and potential therapeutic applications.
A special diabetes care package for UK residents of south Asian ethnic origin has delivered some benefits, including reduced blood pressure and cholesterol levels. However, improving glycaemic control remains a major challenge, and further measures are needed to address health inequalities in this population.
New research from the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine reveals drug-eluting stents outperform bare metal stents in reducing mortality and need for future cardiac procedures. The study found that patients with drug-coated stents saved an average of $1,350 worth of follow-up care during the year.
This year’s JDRF award recipients are Dr. Michael Brownlee for his work on the biochemical basis of diabetic complications, Dr. Maike Sander for her understanding of insulin-producing cells, and Dr. Michael German for his research on pancreatic beta cell structure and development.
A new method by MIT researchers distinguishes between large groups of microbes based on their ecological niches. By analyzing genetic data and habitat preferences, scientists can now classify microbes with greater accuracy.
A study funded by the National Institutes of Health found that reducing early blockages in bloodsstream access does not increase the likelihood that the access will function adequately for long-term treatments. Fistulas are the preferred type of access since they clot less often, experience fewer infections, and are less costly.
A recent study has cast doubt on CD133's status as a colon cancer stem cell marker, finding that the protein is expressed by most cells in colon tumors, not just stem cells. Both CD133+ and CD133- cells can initiate tumors when transplanted into mice.
New data reveals genetic variation in AKT1 affects cognition and grey-matter volume in the frontostriatal region, a brain area dysfunctional in individuals with schizophrenia. This association may increase the risk of developing the condition.
Researchers developed a novel, computer-based approach to study lipoprotein profiles and identify patients at risk for cardiovascular disease. By simulating every single lipoprotein in blood plasma, the model revealed possibly clinically-relevant abnormalities that would remain undetected by evaluating only LDL and HDL.