Cells undergoing apoptosis exert substantial forces on surrounding cells, contributing to processes like wound formation and organ development. Apoptotic cells imploding and withdrawing create a force that aids in closing eye-shaped openings during embryonic development.
Boston University's John T. Clarke leads an engineering and astronomy team on NASA's MAVEN mission to study Martian atmosphere changes. The team aims to solve the mystery of Mars' lost atmosphere, exploring possibilities of water's escape or freezing into the planet's crust.
Researchers at Yale University identified a key regulatory link in the evolution of pregnancy involving the altered function of HoxA-11 protein. This finding revolutionizes our understanding of how pregnancy evolved in mammals, highlighting a crucial genetic switch that tempered the immune system and allowed for internal development.
Research reveals a high incidence of hepatitis B virus infection among IBD patients, with 17% positive for anti-HBc and 2.3% positive for HBsAg. Studies suggest immunosuppressive drugs used in IBD treatment worsen HBV liver disease, emphasizing the importance of lamivudine use and HBV vaccination for high-risk patients.
The Talking Points system uses Bluetooth signals to provide pedestrians with information about points of interest along their path, enhancing navigation for both blind and sighted individuals. The system also incorporates community-generated content through a website, allowing users to access reviews, specials, and sales.
Researchers at the University of Rochester have found a previously unknown anti-cancer mechanism in small-bodied rodents with long lifespans. These cells are hypersensitive to surrounding tissue cues and can slow down cell division, potentially preventing tumor growth.
A Finland research group investigated the effect of a three weeks probiotic LGG intervention on serum global lipidomics profiles in healthy adults. The result showed decreases in certain lipids and increases in triacylglycerols.
Monitoring exhaled nitric oxide levels did not improve asthma management in patients managed according to NIH guidelines, but may benefit specific subgroups. The study suggests that most patients can control their asthma with relatively easy-to-measure symptoms and lung function.
Researchers identified a new class of hormones called lipokines, which help regulate metabolism and improve insulin sensitivity in mice. The discovery could lead to new treatments for obesity-related conditions such as diabetes and fatty liver disease.
Fragile X protein FMRP suppresses protein production, but its mechanism was unclear. Researchers discovered that FMRP works with CYFIP1 to control protein production at synapses. Disruption of this regulation leads to diseases like Fragile X syndrome and Autism.
Researchers have developed a new microbubble agent, Sonazoid, that enhances the sensitivity of contrast-enhanced intraoperative ultrasonography (CE-IOUS) for detecting occult liver lesions in patients with colorectal cancer. CE-IOUS using Sonazoid allows for longer imaging times and improved detection of metastases during hepatectomy.
Researchers found a group of 48 genes that can predict susceptibility to toxic compound MNNG, leading to varying cell responses. The study appears in Genes and Development, providing new insights into how individuals respond to chemotherapy.
A unique case of gastric cancer combined with adenocarcinoma, choriocarcinoma, and neuroendocrine cell carcinoma has been reported. The prognosis for this rare type of gastric cancer is poor, as seen in the case where the patient died due to hepatic failure.
Researchers at University of Wisconsin-Madison have developed a process to convert plant sugars into gasoline, diesel, and jet fuel. The new process produces identical molecular compounds to traditional petroleum-based fuels, offering a promising alternative to fossil fuels.
The Blue Waters project will enable Iowa State researchers to tackle large-scale problems in fields like genomics and chemistry. The team aims to leverage petascale computing power to advance research and innovation.
Researchers have discovered a molecular mechanism underlying cardiac arrhythmia, revealing that a virus receptor plays a crucial role in regulating heart rhythm. The study found that the receptor is essential for normal heart function and its absence or dysfunction leads to arrhythmia.
Four developing countries are leading the way in establishing domestic capacity for genomic medicine, improving national health, reducing medical costs and bolstering economies. Mexico's program is the most comprehensive, with genotyped over 1,200 people to study genetic relationships with various health problems.
Fluorouracil-related pneumatosis cystoides intestinalis is a newly reported case. The mechanism of this condition is unclear but may be related to altered mucosal blood flow and bowel toxicity. Researchers highlight the need for clinicians to monitor patients for potential complications during fluorouracil chemotherapy.
Measuring exhaled nitric oxide (NO) has no clinically significant impact on asthma control when used in conjunction with conventional treatment. Patients in the NO monitoring group received higher doses of inhaled corticosteroids, but this did not lead to better symptom control.
Research from the Norwegian Institute of Public Health reveals that low weight among middle-aged men increases the risk of osteoporosis and fracture. Conversely, stable weight is recommended for optimal bone health. The study found that weight loss, rather than gain, was linked to increased osteoporosis risk.
Fibrotic diseases like cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and cancer involve scarring, affecting organ function. Research by the University of Western Ontario identified glycogen synthase kinase 3 as a brake that can be impaired, leading to scarring.
Research at Purdue University suggests buckyballs can accumulate in animal tissue, particularly fatty tissues, with a greater chance than the banned pesticide DDT. However, their breakdown in the environment or by animals is not yet known.
A new police collaboration program has been launched to address job stress among officers, reducing stigma around seeking help. The program trains over 80 commanders and supervisors to recognize warning signs of operational stress.
A study by the University of Nottingham aims to identify bacterial antigens that could lead to an effective vaccine against Bovine Mastitis. The researchers will use state-of-the-art molecular technology to determine which proteins are essential for infection.
Scientists at the University of Nottingham are investigating a triple cocktail of medicines to lower stroke risk in recovering patients. The study aims to determine if adding clopidogrel to aspirin and dipyridamole improves recovery outcomes.
The University of Miami School of Nursing and Health Studies receives a $300,000 grant to expand its Accelerated BSN program, aiming to alleviate the nation's nursing shortage. The program will provide scholarships to students from underrepresented groups, increasing diversity in the nursing workforce.
A large study found that rescreening average-risk individuals after a normal initial colonoscopy every five years is sufficient to determine the optimal screening interval. The study's findings contradict previous recommendations of 10-year screenings and may impact screening costs and individual follow-up rates.
Researchers at Stanford University School of Medicine confirmed that satellite cells harbor an elusive muscle stem cell, which can self-renew and give rise to specialized progeny. This discovery has profound therapeutic implications for disorders like muscular dystrophy and muscle wasting due to aging.
A new report published in Disease Models & Mechanisms reveals that tumors trigger the same immune response as wounds, with hemocytes replicating and adhering to tumor surfaces to limit growth. The study identifies key pathways in the fly's immune response to tumor growth and tissue disruption, shared with humans.
A recent study suggests that genetic testing for HLA-B*5701 is cost-effective when used to guide abacavir-based treatment, but not if compared to tenofovir-based treatment. The test costs less than the alternative treatment, making it a more affordable option.
A nationwide study found statistically significant increases in nitrate concentrations in 7 of 24 well networks, with median concentrations exceeding the USEPA maximum contaminant level. The study highlights the importance of long-term monitoring programs to protect ground water quality.
A recent study published in the Journal of Homosexuality found that internalized homonegativity, or negative attitudes towards homosexuality, is a stronger predictor of poor mental and sexual health among gay men than the act of being homosexual itself. The research suggests that positive attitudes towards homosexuality are associated ...
Researchers studied 1021 pregnant women who attempted suicide with drugs and found that most congenital abnormalities were associated with psychiatric disorders and lifestyle factors rather than the drugs themselves. The study suggests using self-poisoning data to estimate human teratogenic risks of drugs in pregnancy.
Development models for James Webb Telescope components have successfully passed temperature and vibration tests, allowing engineers to proceed with building actual instrument parts. The Mid-Infrared Instrument, which will operate between mid-infrared wavelengths of 5-28.5 microns, must be kept icy cold due to its extreme sensitivity to...
The number of alien plant species in Europe has more than tripled over the last 25 years, with 5789 species classified as invasive. The UK, Germany, and Belgium report the highest numbers of naturalized aliens, which can lead to long-term changes in ecosystems and economic costs.
Penn State researchers have developed a method to rapidly and inexpensively copy biological surface structures using the conformal evaporated film by rotation (CEFR) technique. This technique enables the creation of coatings that capture the micro and nanostructure of biological surfaces, including metallic finishes and iridescent colors.
A new approach uses lessons from the 2004 election and factors in state polling data, undecided voters, and 'safe' states. The model predicts a margin of up to 282.8 electoral votes for McCain against 255.2 for Obama.
A new study has found that antibiotics given to pregnant women experiencing premature labor with intact membranes increased the risk of functional impairment and cerebral palsy in their children. The ORACLE Children's Study analyzed data from over 3,200 children born to mothers who received antibiotics or a placebo.
Researchers plan to develop exascale machines that can process over 10^18 calculations per second, with a focus on virtualization and managing multiple programs on a single platform. The goal is to lay the groundwork for future systems that can guarantee service levels even in the event of machine failure or overload.
Researchers have found a gene in flatworms that is highly similar to the human gene PTEN, which is frequently mutated in cancer. Disruption of this pathway leads to abnormal growths and cell death, making it an important model for studying human stem cells and cancer.
A study found that an audio relaxation program lowered blood pressure more than listening to Mozart music in a group of elderly people with high blood pressure. The program used binaural sound and guided relaxation techniques to lower systolic blood pressure by 6.4% compared to a 5% reduction from Mozart music.
A study published in the RAND Journal of Economics reveals that escalating investments in distribution systems drive a natural oligopoly in the supermarket industry. A small number of firms capture majority sales, regardless of market size, resulting in concentrated industry with better products.
A national study published in JAMA found that 23.7% of women experience pelvic-floor disorders such as urinary incontinence and fecal incontinence. The risk increases with age, childbirths, and obesity.
Researchers at Iowa State University are working on various combustion projects to improve engine performance. They aim to reduce emissions and increase efficiency by developing new technologies, such as diesel engines and computer models of gasoline engines.
A new study found that pregnant women with bulimia have more symptoms of anxiety and depression compared to those without eating disorders. They also report lower self-esteem and are more dissatisfied with life and their relationships.
A new study found that people with an initial negative colonoscopy have a very low risk of developing colorectal cancer within five years. Based on this study, rescreening may not be necessary sooner than five years after the initial screening. The study's findings confirm what many gastroenterologists already believed.
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.