A new blood test, ELISpot-Plus, in conjunction with a skin test, can rule out tuberculosis infection within 48 hours, providing a much quicker result than existing methods. This combination enables doctors to diagnose TB more accurately and begin investigating other possible explanations for patients' symptoms.
Research found that indoor tanning is a concern for all age groups, with 20% of 18-39 year olds and 10% of 50-64 year olds tanning indoors. Older adults who tan indoors have higher skin cancer risk due to cumulative exposure.
A new stem cell technique has been developed by UC Irvine researchers, which blends two existing methods to improve cell survival rates and increase the efficiency of inserting DNA into cells. This approach is up to 100 times more efficient than current methods at producing human embryonic stem cells with desired genetic alterations.
The Wilkinson Microwave Anisotropy Probe (WMAP) has revealed a sea of cosmic neutrinos permeating the universe and provides evidence that the first stars took more than half a billion years to create a cosmic fog. The new data also places tight constraints on the burst of expansion in the universe's first trillionth of a second.
Jeffrey A. Toretsky, a pediatric oncology physician and researcher at Georgetown University's Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, has received a prestigious Clinical Scientist Award in Translational Research from the Burroughs Wellcome Fund. The award will support his research to identify molecular mechanisms of EWS-FLI1 and develop ...
Dr. Lin Mei received the 2008 Mathilde Solowey Lecture Award for his groundbreaking research on neural circuitry formation and synaptic plasticity. His studies have revealed potential causes of schizophrenia and seizures, as well as new treatment targets for psychiatric diseases.
Researchers at MIT have devised a simple and inexpensive method for sorting different types of cells, which could lead to low-cost tools for diagnosing diseases like cancer. The new device relies on the way cells interact with a surface by rolling along it, allowing specific types of cells to be separated.
A computer model developed by researchers at the Catholic University of Leuven can predict the oxygen concentration inside pears, leading to a better understanding of internal browning. The model suggests that extremely low oxygen concentrations in the core of the pear can lead to cell death and browning.
Researchers at Purdue University's Discovery Park are developing advanced simulations to predict the behavior of miniature switches in micro-electromechanical systems (MEMS). The goal is to improve their reliability and durability for use in various applications, including national defense and civilian industries.
A photograph taken by a wildlife biology student in 2008 may depict a California wolverine, sparking further analysis and investigation. The animal's presence has not been confirmed since the 1920s, but forest service scientists believe it is a rare sighting.
Researchers at Uppsala University have made a breakthrough in treating eating disturbances, including obesity and anorexia, by targeting the melanocortin system. The system regulates energy balance and appetite, and tiny imbalances can lead to major changes.
The Center for Radiative Shock Hydrodynamics will advance predictive science by simulating and studying supernovae. Researchers will quantify uncertainty in simulation results, understand sources of uncertainties, and make better predictions. This grant also funds a doctoral program for predictive science and engineering at U-M.
The Burroughs Wellcome Fund has awarded $9.75 million to 13 translational researchers through its Clinical Scientist Awards in Translational Research. These awards support established physician-scientists exploring scientific questions, applying knowledge at the bedside, and bringing insights back to the laboratory.
A recent study by University of Missouri researcher Betty Winfield found that 19th century American journalism significantly influenced the nation's early history. By referencing certain people and events, journalists created a collective memory and gave meaning to current events.
A global study of LASIK patients found that 95.4 percent are satisfied with their new vision, with similar high satisfaction rates reported in countries outside the US. The study also identified factors associated with patient dissatisfaction, which will be presented at an upcoming ASCRS symposium.
A team of researchers discovered that a common fly's motion-sensitive neurons emit spikes very often and precisely, revealing a more complex language than previously thought. This new understanding challenges traditional assumptions about neural networks and could lead to the development of more efficient artificial intelligence.
Researchers at Purdue University have discovered a biochemical pathway in plants that determines cell shape and size. By understanding this pathway, scientists may be able to engineer plants with improved properties for biofuel production, such as more massive cell walls.
Researchers, led by Dr. X.J. Meng, are developing a vaccine against Hepatitis E, a major public health problem in developing countries. The team has discovered two animal viruses related to HEV, which can be used as models for studying the disease.
Scientists have identified a new species of bacteria called Microbacterium hatanonis that contaminates hairspray, similar to previously found bacteria in human infections.
Researchers at the Alfred Wegener Institute found that stratospheric ozone chemistry significantly influences the Arctic Oscillation, leading to changes in atmospheric air flows and temperature distribution. This basic knowledge is crucial for improving climate models and reducing uncertainty in simulated climate developments.
Research found that women consuming high amounts of meat and low amounts of fish have lower levels of omega-3 fatty acids, which are crucial for brain and eye function. This may lead to developmental delays in infants, emphasizing the need for dietary recommendations that promote optimal health for mothers and babies.
Case Western Reserve University researchers identified genes associated with hereditary components of colorectal cancer in a genome-wide scan. The study found susceptibility genes on chromosomes 1p, 15q, and 17p, which may lead to better cancer screening strategies.
Researchers at Penn State University have discovered that lipid molecules in cell membranes play a key role in triggering allergic reactions. The team used advanced imaging techniques to show how cholesterol-rich lipid domains associate with IgE antibodies and their receptors, leading to histamine release and allergic symptoms.
Researchers developed a bottom-up manufacturing method to produce tiny resonator arrays capable of detecting multiple molecules. This approach allows for high device integration yields and flexible material access, enabling the creation of sensitive resonance-based detection schemes.
Researchers found that non-conscious goal pursuit helps individuals achieve their objectives, even in new environments. In two experiments, participants who received achievement-related cues demonstrated improved performance in tasks requiring implicit learning.
The GLAST spacecraft is preparing for its launch on May 16 at the Kennedy Space Center. It will explore extreme environments in the universe, studying supermassive black hole systems, pulsars, and cosmic rays. The mission aims to answer questions about gamma-ray bursts and other cosmic phenomena.
Researchers developed a pH-sensitive pseudorotaxane nanovalve that can switch between open and closed states. The valve uses cucurbituril molecules to control the flow of guest molecules in porous silica spheres, offering a potential solution for targeted drug delivery.
A $30 million grant will fund research to improve malaria control and treatment in pregnancy across Africa, Asia, and Latin America. The initiative aims to reduce maternal anaemia and low birth weight, potentially saving the lives of up to 100,000 children every year.
A study found that efficient primary care can prevent over 50% of hospitalizations caused by diabetic ketoacidosis, digestive haemorrhage, and chronic bronchitis in older patients. Effective management of these conditions could also reduce the risk of hospitalization for other health problems.
New DNA vaccine technology targets DCs for enhanced immune response; studies in mice show improved protection against viruses and potential applications for cystic fibrosis modeling. Genetic manipulation creates large animal models of CF, providing new avenues for disease research.
Researchers at the University of Iowa and Missouri have developed pig and ferret models of cystic fibrosis through genetic manipulation. The studies used adeno-associated virus vectors to disrupt or introduce mutations into the CFTR gene, resulting in animals that may lead to the development of a good animal model for the disease.
Researchers found that intensive 60-minute daily intervention sessions improved oral reading fluency and national norm scores for at-risk first-graders in Oregon. In contrast, Texas students receiving a 30-minute daily intervention showed significant growth in fluency as well.
A new study found that children in low-income families who received extra cash from a government support program showed better development outcomes. The researchers suggest that the additional money allowed families to buy more nutritious food and other essential items, leading to improved health and cognitive scores. However, despite ...
A study by UC Davis researchers found that an ocean odor, DMSP, attracts reef fish that feed on plankton, providing insight into marine ecology. The release of DMSP also promotes cloud formation, cooling the Earth through reduced sunlight reflection.
A recent study by NOAA scientists suggests that changes in ocean-atmosphere conditions may be a primary factor in declining European eel reproduction and survival rates. The North Atlantic Oscillation is believed to be a key driver of these changes, which can impact the development of glass eels, the juvenile stage of the eel population.
Researchers have discovered that a brain network linked to introspective tasks is less intricate and well-connected in children, with firmer connections forming as individuals mature. This finding has implications for understanding the effects of aging, brain injuries, and conditions like autism on brain function.
Researchers have demonstrated that immunization with a stabilized version of M protein found on Streptococcus bacteria can provide protection against Strep infections. The modified M1 protein stimulates the immune system in mice without serious side effects.
A £285,000 grant from The Wellcome Trust will support the development of new infection-control methods that do not rely on conventional antibiotics. The team will focus on understanding how Streptococcus bacteria interact with host tissues and proteins to identify targets for prevention.
A new study by George Mason University researchers suggests that companies participating in voluntary environmental programs (VEPs) do not outperform those that don't participate. In fact, non-participating companies outperformed self-monitored VEP participants by 24%.
A combination of two platelet inhibitors, aspirin and APT102, reduced bone tumors in laboratory mice with breast or melanoma cancer. The drugs work by blocking platelets' ability to clot and aid tumor cells, slowing down metastasis.
A study of Mexico's Oportunidades programme found that doubling cash transfers to low-income households is associated with significant improvements in children's health and growth. The programme's cash transfer component is linked to increased height, reduced stunting, and better cognitive development outcomes.
The combined scanner uses a new technology to eliminate interference between MRI and PET systems, enabling simultaneous acquisition of structural and functional information. This innovation allows researchers to correlate tumor structure with functional information, providing deeper insights into cancer research.
Researchers at Stanford University have identified synthetic peptoids as a potential new class of antibiotics, which could overcome the limitations of natural peptides. These manmade molecules show promise in treating bacterial infections, including diabetic foot ulcers, with minimal harm to human cells.
Scientists at Rutgers University have made a breakthrough in understanding the mechanism of ricin-induced cell death. By inhibiting a natural defense mechanism called unfolded protein response (UPR), researchers may develop new therapeutic agents to counteract ricin poisonings, which can also be triggered by certain bacteria.
Researchers developed a new, low-cost material to capture CO2 from coal-fired power plants. The hyperbranched aluminosilica (HAS) material has high capacity and can be reused multiple times, offering a cost-effective solution for large-scale carbon capture.
Researchers have created a highly accurate mouse model of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), which closely resembles the most serious form of human ulcerative colitis. Treating the mice with broad-spectrum antibiotics reduced gut inflammation and increased survival, providing hope for new treatments.
A new study reveals that transfer RNA (tRNA) preserves the earliest events of evolutionary history in its structure. The researchers used detailed data to reconstruct the tRNA family tree and determine the order of emergence for viruses, archaea, bacteria, and eukarya.
A new study from Northwestern University's Feinberg School of Medicine explores the neural mechanisms behind hunger and food cravings. The research found that when subjects were fasting, their brains responded strongly to visual cues of donuts, highlighting the brain's ability to prioritize needs in a complex environment.
Scientists at Albert Einstein College of Medicine genetically engineered immune cells to target and kill HIV-infected cells. This approach, using genes from elite controllers' immune systems, could lead to a new strategy for combating AIDS. The study shows promise in both test tubes and animal models.
Researchers have developed techniques to control most atoms using atomic coilguns and lasers, enabling the determination of neutrino mass and potential applications in atomic physics. The breakthroughs use a combination of supersonic beam technology and single-photon cooling methods.
A symposium in the journal SURGERY explores how surgeons can turn research ideas into commercially viable products that benefit patients and generate financial returns. The symposium emphasizes the importance of collaboration between surgeons and industry, while navigating issues such as conflict of interest.
Research reveals that wandering albatrosses follow the direction of scent plumes to locate food sources, often flying crosswind and zigzagging into the wind towards meals. This unique hunting strategy allows them to cover a wide strip of ocean while conserving energy.
Researchers at the University of Michigan have discovered a method for controlling the growth rate of replacement tissue and forming new blood vessels. This breakthrough could be used in various medical procedures, such as bone grafts and dental treatments, to help patients with wound healing problems.
Researchers investigated how genetic background and environmental factors impact NPC disease in mice. Results show a wide range of lifespan outcomes, averaging from 50-130 days, suggesting complex interactions between genetics and environment.
A University of Illinois scientist has created a soy-based cereal that exceeds the requirements for three different FDA health claims, providing a boost of protein, fiber, and nutrients. The cereal was developed to counteract the high-carbohydrate content of typical breakfast foods.
Scientists have discovered a possible once-habitable ancient lake on Mars using NASA's Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter. The image of Holden crater shows layers of fine sediments and minerals that formed in the presence of water, suggesting quiescent conditions that may preserve signatures of past habitability.
New DNA vaccine data identified in mice shows increased immune response by targeting HIV protein gp41 to DCs with a single-chain Fv antibody. This approach induced stronger T cell responses and protected mice from the virus more efficiently than current DNA vaccines.
A recent study published in Substance Abuse Treatment, Prevention, and Policy found that parental monitoring in high school can reduce teenage drinking and have a protective effect on students' drinking in college. The research suggests that higher levels of parental supervision are associated with lower levels of high-school drinking,...
A comprehensive review of 21 studies covering over 37,000 women found that anti-inflammatory drugs like aspirin may reduce breast cancer risk and provide a useful addition to treatment for existing sufferers
A study found that premature children, born before 33 weeks gestation, are at a higher risk of developing severe disabilities. The number of children surviving very preterm birth has increased, but so have adverse developmental outcomes.