A joint research study by IBM and the Genome Institute of Singapore found that microRNAs control stem cell differentiation through coding regions beyond the 3'UTR, challenging previous assumptions. The discovery has implications for novel diagnostics and therapeutics.
Researchers have installed a sophisticated monitoring array near the Hanford Site to investigate uranium plume contamination. The array will enable comprehensive characterization of the subsurface and provide insights into the processes contributing to persistent groundwater contamination.
Researchers have identified two genes that regulate stem cell function in planarians, which could provide insights into adult tissue maintenance and regeneration. The study also reveals the role of PTEN in controlling stem cell proliferation and regeneration.
The study found a significant decline in surgical and medical complications for hysterectomies, with laparoscopic-assisted vaginal hysterectomy showing a 50% reduction. However, African-American women had higher rates of medical and surgical complications, highlighting the need for further research to address disparities.
A new study finds that companies in Democratic states tend to have higher corporate social responsibility (CSR) ratings than those in Republican states. The research analyzed the 2004 presidential election results of communities where corporate headquarters are located, revealing a correlation between political views and CSR ratings.
Researchers from four universities and five schools will study nanotechnology's impact on ecosystems, organisms, and the environment. The center aims to develop a risk assessment model and transfer results to policymakers and society.
The Center for Environmental Implications of NanoTechnology (CEINT) aims to define the relationship between various nanomaterials and their potential environmental exposure and ecological consequences. Researchers plan to develop a rigorous risk assessment framework, collaborating with policy-makers and society.
Researchers at Penn School of Medicine have created a highly specific inhibitor, TPNLQ, that selectively blocks potassium channels in kidneys, opening a new avenue for treating hypertension. This breakthrough could provide a potential new approach to reducing salt reabsorption and lower blood pressure.
A four-month exercise program improved fitness, reduced fat, and prevented lean muscle loss in older sedentary individuals. In contrast, dieting alone led to greater lean muscle loss, highlighting the importance of exercise for maintaining muscle mass and overall health.
A $70 million CU-Boulder instrument will be installed on the Hubble Space Telescope in mid-October to study the 'fossil record' of gases in the early universe. The Cosmic Origins Spectrograph will gather information from ultraviolet light, allowing scientists to reconstruct the physical condition and evolution of the early universe.
Researchers observed a dramatic increase in adult guillemots attacking and killing unattended chicks due to food shortages. The study highlights the previously unsuspected parental dilemma of balancing protection with foraging, leading to brutal attacks on chick populations.
Researchers at Stanford University School of Medicine have discovered a novel 'double agent' role for glycogen synthase kinase 3 (GSK3) in regulating cell growth. Inhibiting GSK3 combats leukemias caused by mutated MLL genes, which account for five to 10 percent of child and adult leukemias.
A binational team of researchers found that brief but personalized behavioral counseling significantly reduced rates and improved condom use among female sex workers. The study showed a 40% decline in new STIs, including HIV, syphilis, gonorrhea, and Chlamydia.
Federation of American Scientists honors Mark D. Levine with the 2008 Public Service Award for his contributions to energy efficiency research, particularly in China. The award recognizes his work in building a strong energy program and promoting clean technology policies.
A study published in Journal of Empirical Legal Studies found that Lipitor's advertising omits crucial information relevant to women, raising concerns about its safety. The study questions Pfizer's claims of clinical proof for Lipitor's effectiveness in preventing heart attacks in women with multiple risk factors.
A new study from Université de Montréal and McGill University found that kids surrounded by overweight peers or parents are more likely to underestimate their own weight. The study analyzed over 3,600 children and adolescents, finding that only 1.6% of kids perceived themselves as having excess weight.
Researchers are developing a simple blood test to diagnose Alzheimer's disease by identifying biomarkers in the blood. The study aims to provide an early and accurate diagnosis, allowing for effective treatment to be given sooner.
A study found that healthy individuals with elevated uric acid levels have a higher risk of developing kidney disease, particularly in women and those with hypertension. The researchers recommend initiating clinical trials to assess the potential of uric acid-lowering drugs for preventing kidney disease.
Researchers at UNC School of Medicine have transformed human skin cells into insulin-producing cells using pluripotent stem cell technology. This breakthrough may lead to new treatments or even a cure for the millions of people affected by diabetes.
A four-year study by Rice University and DRI found that one abnormally warm year can reduce carbon dioxide uptake in grassland ecosystems for up to two years. The study replicated daily and seasonal changes in temperature and rainfall, and tracked CO2 flux between the atmosphere and biosphere.
Duke University scientists have developed a new microscopy technique that enables peeking so deep into living tissue as to see molecules interacting. By combining optical coherence tomography with miniscule particles of gold, researchers can achieve higher resolutions than traditional methods.
A study found that hookworm infections are prevalent among pregnant women in sub-Saharan Africa, linked to lower haemoglobin levels and increased risk of anaemia. The research estimates that over 37 million women of reproductive age are infected with hookworms, highlighting the need for effective deworming treatment policies.
A new colorectal screening procedure, CT colonography, has been found to be highly accurate in detecting intermediate and large polyps. The study, which used virtual reality technology, compared the accuracy of CT colonography with conventional colonoscopy and found that it was comparable in its ability to accurately detect problems.
The Case Western Reserve University collaboration has trained over 80 police supervisors to identify and assist with operational stress among officers. The program aims to break the stigma around job stress, promoting a culture of openness and seeking help.
A new advance in cellular imaging allows scientists to track the movement of live cells in the area around tumors, providing insights into how certain immune cells help or hinder tumor growth. This study sheds light on potential drug targets and mechanisms to enhance the body's natural immune response to cancer.
Researchers at Durham University found a giant black hole emitting a regular X-ray signal, linking it to smaller black holes. This discovery sheds light on how gas behaves around super-massive black holes as they feed and develop.
The AGA Institute concludes that CT colonography is a viable colorectal cancer screening option, detecting 90% of large polyps. However, small polyps are less detectable, and radiation risks are still uncertain. Colonoscopy remains the definitive test for early detection and prevention.
A study conducted in Bangladesh found that vaccinating mothers during pregnancy with the flu shot can greatly reduce a newborn's risk of infection, with a 63% reduction in proven influenza illness among infants. The study also showed a 36% decrease in serious respiratory illnesses for both mothers and infants.
Scientists have developed a new X-ray technique called Analyzer-Based X-ray Imaging (ABI) for early breast cancer detection, offering high spatial resolution and sensitivity. The technique has shown promising results in distinguishing microcalcifications and improving the definition of tumor shapes and margins.
A study published in PLOS ONE found a strong link between digit length and voluntary exercise, contradicting previous research on male aggression. The findings indicate that prenatal stress hormones play a key role in shaping the desire for physical activity.
The Arctic sea ice cover has reached its minimum extent for the year, marking the second-lowest on record. The current trend reinforces a strong negative impact of summertime sea ice extent over the past 30 years.
Researchers found that genetic programs forming the prostate in embryos are similar to those driving tumor growth in prostate cancers. They identified genes involved in cell survival, growth, and movement that are activated in both normal development and aggressive prostate cancers.
Research shows that early parenting plays a key role in shaping infants' physiological responses to stress. At 6 months old, parenting affects the impact of genes on vagal tone, a cardiac response that helps regulate heart rate during challenging situations.
Researchers may develop new treatments for diseases like multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis, and sepsis by understanding the role of fibrin in blood coagulation. The NIH grant will support a four-year study to identify how cytokines regulate fibrin levels.
In a phase II trial, pazopanib was found to shrink lung cancer tumors in 30 out of 35 patients by up to 85%. The results suggest that pazopanib is highly active in early stage operable lung cancer. Further development of this drug in lung cancer is underway.
Abstinence-only programs are found to be inaccurate, ineffective in changing sexual behavior, and violate human rights principles. Studies show that these programs withhold life-saving information from young people and conflict with ethical standards.
Researchers at the University of Texas at Austin have developed a new carbon-based material called graphene that can store electrical charge in ultracapacitor devices, potentially doubling their capacity. The breakthrough could enable the massive installation of renewable energies like wind and solar power.
Researchers in FLUTEST project provide improved bird flu diagnosis and early warning systems, while AFRISK project aims to detect and prevent African Swine Fever imports into EU member states. Global warming may be increasing disease spread in Europe.
A study at the University of Leicester investigated methods for improving child and young adult witnesses' evidence, focusing on face recognition. Young adults were found to recognize faces from different ethnicities equally well but struggled to reject unfamiliar faces.
Scientists at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital have discovered a new drug that can temporarily disable the ATM protein, making tumor cells more susceptible to irradiation and chemotherapy. The treatment, CP466722, has no significant side effects, according to the study published in Cancer Research.
Researchers at National Jewish Health found that glucocorticoids are 40% less effective in overweight and obese asthma patients than in those of normal weight. The study suggests a potential mechanism involved in the resistance, which could lead to therapeutic targets for future medications.
Researchers at the University of Illinois have discovered the physical mechanism behind rapid water transport in carbon nanotubes. By orienting water molecules, the researchers found that a coupling between rotational and translational motions occurs, resulting in a helical motion through the nanotube.
Studies in mice reveal that women who have children young have fewer mammary stem cells, which could contribute to lower breast cancer risk. Researchers plan to investigate further to determine the mechanism behind this protective effect and explore potential treatments.
Researchers found that excessive groundwater withdrawal in Iran has led to significant land subsidence, causing destruction of aquifers. The study also suggests that future climate change will exacerbate this issue, highlighting the need for effective water resource management.
A new study found that vaccinated seniors who took COLD-FX had a one-third lower chance of getting a 'Jackson' cold or flu. The supplement, a unique extract of North American ginseng, also provided added protection on top of the flu shot's benefit.
A new analysis of almost 150 studies found that both boys and girls engage in social aggression, including gossiping, spreading rumors, and excluding others. This challenges the popular notion that girls are more likely to be indirectly aggressive than boys.
Dr. Jeanne Stellman urges government policy change to control carcinogenic chemicals in the workplace, citing years of wasted time examining the problem while few have championed efforts to regulate PCBs. Many hazardous chemicals remain unmonitored and unregulated, posing a significant threat to public health.
A new five-year research centre will be established in the East Midlands, focusing on improving patient care through innovative healthcare approaches. The Collaborative Leadership in Applied Health Research and Care (CLAHRC) will prioritize patients' needs and translate research findings into practical service improvements.
A survey of 515 patients found they were split almost 50/50 on the effectiveness of 'pay for performance for patients' schemes. Smokers and obese individuals thought paying for lifestyle changes was a good idea, citing lower healthcare costs and increased motivation.
A study published in Child Development found that girls from poor neighborhoods are more likely to initiate sex at an early age, especially those with conduct problems. Peer groups and deviant friends play a significant role in shaping their behavior and desirability of early sexual activity.
Genetic testing identifies patients with advanced colorectal cancer who are likely to survive longer on cetuximab, a new standard of care for targeted therapies. Tumor cell analysis also reveals high levels of circulating cells before treatment as an indicator of disease aggressiveness.
A study found that older problem gamblers are three to four times more likely to harm themselves than younger counterparts. They prefer non-strategic games, which may accelerate the downward spiral of gambling problems.
Researchers at Max Planck Institute of Neurobiology found that tiny pores on the cell surface allow granzymes to enter cells, providing a new target for therapeutic methods. The discovery could lead to improved treatments for chronic virus infections and cancer.
A new study published in PLOS ONE reveals that emotional information plays a crucial role in face recognition for individuals with developmental prosopagnosia. The research found that facial expressions and bodies can be used to design more effective assessment and training programs.
Researchers used 3-D MRI to accurately detect bleeding in diseased carotid arteries, a condition that may lead to stroke. The technique identifies complicated plaques with surface ulcerations and blood clots, which are major causes of vascular events.
A team of scientists found that sooty mangabeys have less immune system activation during SIV infection, explaining why they don't develop AIDS. This difference may hold key to understanding the mechanisms underlying AIDS progression in humans.
A brief, tailored intervention program improved parenting and reduced problem behavior in toddlers of low-income families. The Family Check-Up program encouraged positive parenting practices and was effective in preventing adjustment problems.
The Journal of Dental Biomechanics will cover tissue and material biomechanics, with a focus on hard and soft tissue analysis. The journal aims to provide a platform for researchers to share vital research and developments in dental biomechanics.
A study of 1961 nonpregnant women found that nearly a quarter report at least one pelvic floor disorder, including urinary and fecal incontinence. The prevalence of these disorders increases with age and weight, affecting over half of women aged 80 or older.
Researchers captured spore discharge mechanisms using ultra-high-speed cameras, revealing that fungi propel spores with explosive pressure loss, similar to inkjet printer nozzles. This breakthrough has implications for plant disease control, terrestrial ecology, and biomimetics.