Researchers at Mount Sinai School of Medicine have developed a new gene silencing technology that can effectively suppress transcriptional expression of targeted genes in human cells, including those linked to various diseases. This breakthrough could pave the way for preventing diseases where gene dysfunction plays a role.
Researchers have made a breakthrough in developing a safer, fully-synthetic version of heparin, a widely used blood thinner currently produced from pig intestines. The new synthesis method uses powerful enzymes to produce the pure heparin polymer, boosting production a million times higher than previous methods.
A study published by the American Psychological Association found that people taking antidepressants drive worse than those who aren't taking such drugs. Depressed drivers on meds performed significantly poorer in a driving simulation test.
A recent survey found that over half of college students reported having at least one episode of suicidal thinking, while 15% seriously considered attempting suicide. The study suggests that interventions should be offered at multiple points, not just during crisis, to address the entire continuum of suicidal thoughts and behaviors.
Researchers at Carnegie Mellon University developed hydrogels that promote the growth of pre-osteoblast cells, aiding bone development. These gels interact with growth factors like demineralized bone matrix, providing scaffolding for bone cell proliferation and new tissue formation.
Researchers successfully controlled an electrical current using the 'spin' within electrons, a step toward building plastic semiconductor switches. However, highly efficient organic LEDs may only convert up to 25 percent of electricity into light, contrary to earlier estimates.
Researchers develop new technology to analyze hair interactions, finding that mechanical and chemical changes cause rough feel. The study aims to optimize hair care product formulas by understanding how different components affect hair-to-hair interactions.
A new study found biracial Asian Americans are twice as likely as monoracial peers to be diagnosed with a psychological disorder. The research controlled for factors like age and stress but found no difference in life experiences.
A large genetic analysis implicates machinery involved in sodium and calcium balance in brain cells in bipolar disorder. Variation in two genes showed the strongest association with bipolar disorder.
A novel approach extracts single genomes and discerns specific microbial capabilities from mixed community sequence data. The research team characterized biochemical pathways associated with nitrogen cycling and methane utilization in Lake Washington sediments, revealing novel versions of metabolism.
The study found a significant decrease in child pneumonia mortality rates after introducing improved oxygen systems, with a 35% lower risk of death. The cost-effectiveness of this system was also compared to other public-health interventions, with favorable results.
The APA task force report highlights the importance of positive attitudes, racial identity, and family support in promoting resilience among African-American youth. The report identifies four key themes: active engagement, flexibility, communalism, and critical-mindedness.
Researchers found adults are more effective at identifying false reports than detecting false denials of actual events. This discovery has significant implications for forensic child abuse evaluations and highlights the importance of evaluating children's reports.
Researchers at Vanderbilt University Medical Center have successfully recovered antibodies to the 1918 flu virus from elderly survivors, showcasing surprisingly long-lasting immunity. These antibodies could serve as a treatment option if another similar strain emerges in the future.
New research reveals that infection with the 1918 influenza virus granted survivors lifelong protection against the disease. Antibodies produced by these individuals proved effective in blocking the viral infection in mice.
Research shows that video games enhance cognitive and perceptual skills in children and adults, with benefits seen in classrooms, surgical procedures, and scientific thinking. Studies also reveal varied effects of game content and player behavior on learning outcomes.
The American Psychological Association has adopted a resolution supporting full equality for transgender and gender-variant individuals, calling for appropriate, nondiscriminatory treatment. The association's Task Force on Gender Identity and Gender Variance recommends further research into all aspects of gender identity and expression.
A recent study by University of California, Davis researchers found that Asian Americans with high levels of family conflict are three times more likely to attempt suicide than those without such conflicts. The risk is independent of depression and income levels.
Researchers found that hope is consistently associated with fewer symptoms of depression in patients and caregivers. Hope therapy treatment showed reduced depressive symptoms in participants who learned new hope-related skills.
Students who scored high on measures of courage, empathy and honesty were less likely to report cheating in the past or intend to cheat in the future. They also reported feeling more guilt if they cheated compared to those who rationalized their behavior.
Physicist John R. Clem developed a theory that reduces AC losses in bifilar fault-current limiters, enabling more efficient and cost-effective power grid protection. The research supports the development of commercial products by Siemens and American Superconductor.
Researchers at Montana State University's Western Transportation Institute will use automated in-car cameras to gauge the effect of Montana's driver's education modules on teen attitudes and behaviors behind the wheel. The study aims to reduce drowsy and distracted driving, particularly in rural areas.
The Toward a Revolution in COPD Health (TORCH) study found that combined salmeterol and fluticasone propionate reduced the rate of decline in lung function by 39ml/year, compared to 55ml/year in the placebo group.
Michigan State University scientists are creating a genomic database to improve biofuel crops, with a focus on cellulosic ethanol. The database will centralize information on various crops and provide data-mining tools, making it easier for researchers to access and compare genetic data.
A new study identifies three groups of cancers distinguished by early developmental signatures, shedding light on their gene expression patterns. This research provides a reference framework for interpreting smaller-scale functional studies and has implications for understanding human disease from a 'macrobiological' approach.
A study published in the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine found that bariatric surgery can improve obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) symptoms, but only a few patients experienced complete resolution. Most patients continued to have moderate to severe OSA despite significant weight loss.
Researchers at the University of Texas Medical Branch have found that shutting down gastrin-releasing peptide receptors can dramatically suppress neuroblastoma tumor formation and slow its spread. This breakthrough could lead to the development of new therapies for this devastating disease.
Researchers at Rockefeller University amplify cell death signals to induce self-destruction in precancerous cells. By inactivating a protein called IAP, they found that mice without the RING domain lived twice as long as those with it, highlighting a potential breakthrough in cancer therapy.
A virus that infects potatoes has been used to develop antibodies that can bind to the amyloid beta protein, a key contributor to Alzheimer's disease. Studies in mice have shown promising results, with the development of strong antibodies that can slow disease progression and improve cognitive function.
Researchers Tao Lin and Steven J. Norris will investigate conflicting reports on the infectious nature of Southern-Tick Associated Rash Illness (STARI) in Texas. They aim to identify the causative agent using innovative approaches such as DNA amplification and high-throughput sequencing.
Carbon nanotubes' true mechanical properties have been measured by Northwestern University researchers using a novel nanoscale material testing system. The results match quantum mechanics predictions and reveal that irradiation can strengthen the structure by forming bonds between shells of the tube.
Researchers urge companies to use comprehensive screening tools to analyze carbon footprints across all tiers of their supply chain. This will enable them to make informed decisions on reducing their environmental impact.
A University of Central Florida study found that college students' anxieties often stem from exaggerated perceptions of parental expectations. Students who perceive a supportive parenting style tend to adjust better to college life. Schools may benefit from teaching assertive communication skills to parents and students.
Circadin, a new drug developed at Tel Aviv University, replenishes the hormone melatonin, which declines with age, to improve sleep quality and morning alertness in people over 55. This therapy has also been shown to normalize blood pressure and blood sugar levels at night.
A novel approach to treating HIV/AIDS uses customized dendritic cells to stimulate immune response, showing potential for innovative therapeutic approach
A new study by Dr. Lawrence Cheskin suggests that increasing mushroom intake can help prevent or treat obesity by consuming low-energy-density foods in place of high-energy-density foods like lean ground beef. Mushroom meals were found to be as palatable and appealing as meat meals, with no difference in appetite or satiety.
A new study suggests that ventilator-induced lung injury still occurs even with lower breath volumes, highlighting the need for more accurate assessments of lung stress and strain. The researchers recommend routine assessment of esophageal pressure and lung volumes to improve patient outcomes.
Biologists at the University of Virginia discovered a switching mechanism in the eye that regulates sleep/wake cycles in mammals. The finding demonstrates that light receptor cells play a key role in setting the brain's primary timekeeper, leading to potential new treatments for sleep disorders and visual impairments.
A study by Yale researchers found that prediction markets are a strong tool for forecasting US presidential elections. The authors analyzed the 2004 election market and found that traders quickly assimilated new information as it unfolded over the campaign, indicating their ability to accurately predict outcomes.
A study found that older adult dementia caregivers have significantly worse sleep patterns than non-caregivers, with less total sleep time and increased daytime sleepiness. Caregivers also reported lower subjective sleep quality and higher depressive symptom scores.
Researchers have developed a prototype test that can predict clinical outcome for melanoma patients, distinguishing between rapid and slow progression to Stage IV cancer. The test uses gene signature analysis and shows promise in identifying patient subtypes, which could improve treatment decisions and reduce clinical trial sizes.
Scientists at the Smithsonian Institution have discovered a new species of olive-backed forest robin in Gabon, Africa. The bird was found to be a separate and distinct species through DNA analysis, bringing the country's total known bird species to 753.
Researchers at Caltech developed a novel way to produce large quantities of drugs, including antiplaque toothpaste additives and antibiotics, using genetically modified yeast. The yeast produces reticuline, a precursor for benzylisoquinoline alkaloid molecules with various pharmacological activities.
Researchers identified a crucial protein, TGD4, essential for chloroplast formation and photosynthesis. This discovery may lead to tailored plant varieties for efficient biofuel production, reducing costs and increasing oil accumulation in leaves.
A team of Princeton University researchers has developed an automated system that can reconstruct wall paintings from fragments, reducing the time needed from years to months. The 'Griphos' system employs a combination of computer algorithms and mirrors traditional archaeological procedures, enabling archaeologists to use it as a tool.
Girls are more likely to experience persistent asthma, whereas boys tend to outgrow the condition. After nine years of monitoring, researchers found that girls' airway reactivity did not change significantly over time, while boys became increasingly tolerant to larger doses of methacholine.
Researchers from Northwestern University have successfully mass-produced the 2008 Summer Olympics logo, 15,000 times, using a new printing technique called Polymer Pen Lithography (PPL). The PPL method allows for fast, inexpensive, and simple printing on nanometer, micrometer, and millimeter length scales.
Researchers have developed a computer program that will help astronauts manage psychosocial challenges, including depression and interpersonal conflicts. The Virtual Space Station is being tested with veteran astronauts, providing private access to treatments even when they're far from Earth.
A recent study identified a bluetongue virus strain that originated in sub-Saharan Africa, rather than Europe. The discovery was made through multi-centre sequence analysis of the full genome of the virus strain and its comparison to other BTV strains.
The Gaza Strip's drinking water has been found to contain high levels of nitrate, posing a significant risk to infant health. The contamination is primarily attributed to the use of manure and wastewater in farming practices.
Researchers Dagmar Voigt and Stanislav Gorb from the Max-Planck Institute for Metals Research discovered that mirid bugs' non-stick surface disrupts the adhesive properties of Roridula gorgonias' glue. The team found that the mirid bug's greasy coating prevents the glue from adhering to its surface, allowing it to evade capture.
The J. Paul Sticht Center on Aging at Wake Forest University Baptist Medical Center has been renewed as one of 11 nationwide Claude D. Pepper Older American Independence Centers. The center will receive almost $1 million each year to support clinical research in aging and promote functional independence among older adults.
The number of dead zones in coastal waters has increased by a third between 1995 and 2007, with 405 areas affected, covering an area of 95,000 square miles. Dead zones are caused by excess nutrients, primarily nitrogen and phosphorus, leading to oxygen depletion.
A study found that sleep plays a key role in preserving emotional memories, strengthening the memory's emotional core while diminishing neutral background details. This process enables the brain to selectively preserve only the most salient information, leading to vivid recall of emotional events.
A new study reveals that increased campaign spending significantly improves citizen participation in State Supreme Court elections. The research, published in the American Journal of Political Science, found that greater spending facilitates voting and strengthens the connection between citizens and courts.
Research suggests a strong link between middle ear infections and obesity, with damaged taste nerves leading to a preference for fatty foods. Tonsillectomies may also contribute to weight gain in children and adults.
A University of Michigan study found that over 80% of Air Force women deployed in Iraq experienced physical health problems, including fatigue, fever, and hair loss. The study suggests that deployment-related stressors may play a critical role in developing these symptoms.
A recent study published in PLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases found Brazilian children are five times more likely to develop eye lesions by four years old, with vision compromised in 87% of cases. The researchers believe infection with virulent genotypes prevalent in Brazil contribute to the severity of clinical symptoms.
Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine have identified a baker's yeast protein, Hsp104, that can reverse protein aggregation in animal models of Parkinson's disease. This breakthrough finding holds promise for developing new treatments for the condition.
Researchers develop self-assembling polymer arrays that improve data storage capacity and reduce manufacturing time. The technology uses block copolymers to create precise patterns, enabling higher-density arrays and faster production.