NGS technologies offer streamlined workflows, massive parallelism, and cost reduction through targeted sequencing of specific genes or regions. Researchers are applying NGS to various fields, including hereditary cancer research and bacterial gene expression studies.
A CSHL team discovered rules governing the processing and sorting of small RNAs in the RNAi pathway. The rules determine which strand of a duplex is chosen to interact with the Argonaute protein, affecting gene regulation and potential therapeutic applications.
Researchers at Arizona State University use single-walled carbon nanotubes to accelerate DNA sequencing, detecting sharp spikes in electrical activity during DNA translocation. The technique has potential to speed up sequencing by thousands of times while reducing costs.
A UCLA study published in the American Journal of Ophthalmology found that older women who quit smoking had a significantly lower risk of developing advanced age-related macular degeneration. The research, led by Dr. Anne Coleman, followed 1,958 women over five years and showed that even after age 80, quitting smoking can reduce AMD risk.
A US-German team studied genetic changes in Arabidopsis thaliana over 30 generations, finding that new mutations occur frequently, with an average of one per genome per generation. The study also reveals that not all parts of the genome are equally affected and provides new estimates for when species split up.
A 29-year-old man experienced symptoms after a tarantula released 'a mist of hairs' into the air, which got stuck in his eyes. He was treated with topical steroids and made a full recovery. The case highlights the importance of proper eye protection when handling tarantulas.
Cyclone Laurence dropped heavy rainfall over northwest Australia, with the heaviest totals exceeding 450 mm near Cape Bougainville. The Australian coast also experienced high rainfall totals, with areas along the coast receiving over 150 mm of rain from the cyclone.
A University of Iowa study reveals a critical link in the sugar chain of an important muscle protein, providing insights into congenital muscular dystrophies and cancer progression. The discovery may lead to new therapies for treating these conditions.
Lymphatic filariasis, onchocerciasis, and other neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) cause significant morbidity and mortality globally. NTDs have been hindered by limited funding and coordination, but successful control initiatives like onchocerciasis elimination demonstrate the potential for progress.
Researchers overcome DNA contamination hurdle to analyze 30,000-year-old human DNA using modern sequencing techniques, providing insights into the evolution and prehistory of our species. The study allows scientists to directly glimpse into the genetic makeup of ancient humans who lived tens of thousands of years ago.
A randomized controlled trial shows that catheter ablation before ICD implantation reduces VT recurrence at two years, with a 40% lower risk of repeat VT or VF. Prophylactic catheter ablation may be considered for patients with stable VT and reduced left-ventricular function.
Researchers have identified the genetic marker for Devil Facial Tumour Disease (DFTD), a transmissible cancer affecting only Tasmanian devils. The discovery reveals that DFTD originates from Schwann cells, which protect peripheral nerve fibres.
A large-scale study demonstrates that transplanted cells produced dopamine, leading to improved motor symptoms and brain function. Long-term clinical outcomes revealed sustained improvements over a four-year period.
A team of scientists has discovered that the fatal facial tumors decimating Australia's Tasmanian devil population probably originated in Schwann cells. The researchers identified a genetic marker to accurately diagnose the facial cancers, called devil facial tumor disease (DFTD).
Researchers have found that male and female mosquitoes harmonize with each other to find a compatible mate. The study reveals that different mosquito forms can travel together despite their genetic diversity, which has significant implications for malaria control.
Educating communities on snake bite prevention is crucial, but antivenom treatment needs improvement. Improper training and use of antivenom can lead to fatal complications.
Prions, infectious protein particles devoid of DNA, can develop mutations and adapt through natural selection, leading to drug resistance. The study suggests that normal prion proteins may be more effective therapeutic targets than their abnormal forms, offering new hope for treating deadly neurodegenerative diseases.
A recent study by UB neurobiologist Jennifer L. Temple found that boys and girls have different levels of caffeine's appealing value, with males working harder to obtain caffeinated drinks. The research also explored the effects of acute and chronic caffeine consumption on blood pressure, heart rate, and hand tremor in teenagers.
Climate researchers have found that the Indian Ocean Dipole is occurring more frequently due to global warming, leading to extreme weather patterns. Meanwhile, a study in North America reveals that natural cooling factors contributed to an unusually cold year in 2008, contradicting claims of a prolonged cooling trend.
A new study from the University of Pittsburgh suggests that short-term school closures can increase infection rates and prolong an epidemic. The research found that sustaining closures for at least eight weeks is crucial in decreasing the spread of infection.
Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center pioneered a technique to replace infected aortic grafts with the body's own veins, proving more durable and less prone to new infection than synthetic or cadaver grafts. The procedure has superior durability and lower long-term amputation rates compared to other operations.
Researchers found that biomarker levels began to rise 3 years before clinical diagnosis, but became substantially elevated only a year prior. While not accurate enough for early intervention, these markers are associated with modest increases in ovarian cancer risk.
Researchers found that coordinated conservation efforts across national borders can achieve higher results and save up to 45% of costs compared to uncoordinated plans. The study estimates a potential savings of $67 billion for the Mediterranean region's biodiversity conservation efforts.
A new study published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute found that colonoscopies significantly reduced the prevalence of left-sided advanced colorectal neoplasms by 85% in a community setting. The study, which analyzed data from 3,287 participants, also showed no significant reduction in right-sided advanced neoplasms.
A new study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that young people under 18 are more susceptible to catching swine flu from an infected person in their household. However, the risk of transmission does not vary by age, with household contacts over 50 being the least likely to get infected.
A study found a strong correlation between the presence of Streptococcus pneumoniae and increased risk for severe H1N1 pandemic influenza virus infections. The bacteria were present in most severe cases, with a 125-fold increased risk of severe disease among individuals aged 6-55.
A new guideline from the American Academy of Neurology finds that transcutaneous electric nerve stimulation (TENS) is not effective in treating chronic low-back pain. Research shows conflicting results, but TENS may be beneficial for diabetic nerve pain.
Researchers at Thomas Jefferson University have successfully engineered tobacco plants to produce more oil in their leaves, which can be used as a sustainable biofuel. The modified plants yielded up to 20-fold more oil than normal tobacco plant leaves, paving the way for a new energy source.
The Herschel Space Observatory has revealed thousands of newly discovered galaxies in their early stages of formation, providing a detailed view of the universe up to 12 billion years ago. The images are helping astronomers detect distant galaxies that would have been impossible to discover with current ground-based telescopes.
A study found that nearly 80 high-risk cardiovascular devices received FDA approval based on data from a single study, highlighting the need for high-quality research. The review of 123 summaries of safety and effectiveness data revealed discrepancies between enrolled and analyzed patients, which may introduce bias.
A recent study developed a straightforward technique to determine the ethnic origin of stem cells, finding that Caucasian and East Asian populations are overrepresented in current cell lines. The team created a new stem cell line with a West African Yoruba genetic profile, which could lead to more diverse research and safer therapies.
The MIRI detectors will enable the Webb telescope to observe the earliest stars and galaxies in the universe, allowing scientists to study the formation and evolution of the cosmos. The new video showcases the technology behind MIRI and its potential for groundbreaking discoveries.
A study by Dr. Gregory A. Elder found that presenilin-1 plays a role in the vascular pathology associated with Alzheimer disease, while another study discovered that osteopontin contributes to allergic contact dermatitis. Weakened Plasmodium parasites also elicit a protective immune response.
A study published in JAMA found that telemedicine for ICU patients was not associated with improved mortality rates, length of stay, or reduced illness and death. Tele-ICU systems were only beneficial for sicker patients.
A new study has found that chlorophyll and its derivative chlorophyllin are effective in limiting the absorption of aflatoxin in humans. The Phase 0 approach allows for the measurement of minute amounts of aflatoxin, revealing rapid absorption that is significantly limited after treatment with chlorophyll and chlorophyllin.
Researchers at Georgetown Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center report a significant advance in personalized medicine using a new chip that examines hundreds of genetic mutations. The chip, called DMET, could replace highly-specialized and labor-intensive genotyping tools, accelerating cancer research and treatment.
Scientists find evidence that Arctic Ocean and Nordic Seas may experience seasonally ice-free conditions and much warmer temperatures in the future. USGS research suggests that current climate models underestimate sea ice loss, with potential consequences including accelerated coastal erosion and impacts on polar bears and seals.
Researchers found TRAP-1 to be highly expressed in prostate cancer cells, inhibiting cell death, while Gamitrinib treatment killed cancer cells but not healthy ones. This suggests targeting TRAP-1 may provide a new approach for treating advanced prostate cancer.
Researchers at Medical College of Wisconsin develop rapid semi- and fully-automated multiplex real-time RT-PCR assays for detecting human H1N1, H3N2, and swine-origin H1N1 viruses. The tests can distinguish between influenza A, B, and RSV infections, reducing technician and assay time.
A study published in the Journal of Oncology found that acupuncture is as effective as drug therapy in reducing hot flashes and improving energy and clarity of thought in breast cancer patients. Acupuncture also showed benefits for sex drive and overall sense of well-being, with minimal side effects.
A recent study published in JAMA found that Ginkgo biloba supplementation did not slow the rate of cognitive decline in older adults with normal cognition or mild cognitive impairment. The researchers analyzed data from over 3,000 participants and found no evidence of an effect on global cognitive change or specific cognitive domains.
Researchers create a synthesis technique that generates moving images of 3D objects, which are virtually impossible for computer algorithms to decode. This technology could lead to a better captcha system, highlighting the difference between human and robotic perception.
Pharmacists at the University at Buffalo improved diabetes care for patients with Type 2 diabetes, reducing their A1C levels by an average of 1.1% over six months. This improvement came with significant cost savings, with monthly costs per patient decreasing by approximately $212.
A group of US plant pathologists came together in Boston in 1909 to discuss plant problems and establish a new field of science. Their efforts led to significant progress in diagnosing and controlling plant diseases, benefiting the US agriculture industry.
Researchers use new acoustic sensors to monitor endangered North Atlantic right whales and reduce ship strikes, a leading cause of their deaths. The tools improve monitoring capabilities and enhance management efforts to protect these whales.
Research from the Kellogg School of Management explores 'moral hypocrisy' in powerful individuals, finding that power makes them stricter in moral judgment of others while being less strict of their own behavior. Power also leads to a disconnect between public judgment and private actions.
A study by the Center for Studying Health System Change reveals a gap between policy makers' expectations of commercial EMRs to improve care coordination and clinicians' real-world experiences. Current EMRs facilitate care coordination within practices but struggle with exchanging information across physician practices and settings.
Researchers will investigate the role of vortices in normal and abnormal voice production, with a focus on unilateral vocal cord paralysis. The goal is to develop effective treatments that restore vortices and normalize vibrations.
The new series aims to address the shortage of geriatric expertise in healthcare. The series will explore themes that develop with aging, such as frailty and loss of independence. By analyzing real stories of patients and interviews, it will provide clinicians with pragmatic tools for translating evidence into daily practice.
CU-Boulder is leading a $3.3 million concept study for a lander mission to Venus, aiming to study the planet's surface, climate, and atmosphere. The mission will compare Venus with other terrestrial planets and help understand Earth's fate.
Researchers have discovered a common mechanism underlying many diseases of excitability, characterized by overactivity of cells relying on electrical currents. The mutations alter the opening of sodium channels, leading to rapid resurgent currents that trigger second electrical impulses.
Researchers have developed a mouse model that exhibits schizophrenia-like behavior, allowing for better understanding and potential treatments. The mouse's impaired short-term memory and increased movement are similar to those seen in human patients with schizophrenia, providing a valuable tool for studying the disorder.
Researchers at MIT have developed a novel RNA interference technique that can silence multiple genes in the liver, offering potential new treatments for diseases such as cancer. The breakthrough delivery method uses lipid-like molecules to improve efficacy and reduce dosage requirements.
Researchers discovered four small molecules capable of protecting cells from alpha-synuclein toxicity, a hallmark of Parkinson's disease. The compounds improved protein trafficking and decreased mitochondrial damage in multiple models, suggesting potential therapeutic avenues for the disease.
Researchers have discovered a way to visualize iron-sulfur clusters in living cells using a custom protein tag, enabling analysis of diseases involving these metalloclusters. This technique has high potential for helping find real treatments for diseases such as Friedreich's ataxia and myopathy.
Researchers have identified Notch signaling pathway activation in human angiomyolipomas and TSC2-deficient rat cells, suggesting that TSC proteins regulate Notch activity. This finding supports the idea that Notch dysregulation may underlie some of the distinctive clinical features of Tuberous Sclerosis Complex.
A team of researchers at Penn State has discovered that certain combinations of elemental atoms can mimic the electronic signatures of other elements. By examining photoelectron spectroscopy data, they found similarities between titanium monoxide and nickel, zirconium monoxide and palladium, and tungsten carbide and platinum.
Researchers used a classic staining method to observe how semaphorin regulates the creation of synapses and their distribution in the brain involved in conscious thought. The discovery could have an impact on understanding early origins of neurological disorders like autism, schizophrenia, and epilepsy.
Two NYC high school students used DNA barcoding techniques to discover a zoo of 95 animal species in their homes, including invasive insects and fish. They also found evidence of food fraud, with 11 out of 66 food products mislabeled, posing health risks to consumers.
A study by researchers at the University of California - San Diego has found that amyloid beta reduces plasticity in dendritic spines, affecting synapse transmission and memory storage. Continuous release of Aβ is required to prevent this effect.