A study published in Neurology found that teenage women who are obese may be more than twice as likely to develop multiple sclerosis as adult women compared to female teens who are not obese. Weight during adolescence, rather than childhood or adulthood, is critical in determining the risk of MS.
A team of researchers completed the first draft of the cassava genome, which contains an estimated 95% of cassava genes. The availability of this sequence enables the development of a genome variation database to aid farmers in improving cassava resistance to CBSD.
A £3.2m, three-year research project is underway at the University of Exeter to develop new technologies based on the physical properties of butterfly wings. The team aims to create innovative solutions in anti-counterfeit technology, radio-frequency identification, wi-fi efficiency and security.
A UCI embryonic stem cell treatment has shown promise in restoring limb function in rats with neck spinal cord injuries. The therapy may also benefit individuals with cervical damage, which currently lacks effective treatments.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins University have discovered a new use for a chemical compound that can be transformed into a thin film insulator, blocking electricity flow but inducing large electric currents. The material, called solution-deposited beta-alumina, has important applications in transistor technology and e-book readers.
A study by Indiana University found that adults with intellectual disabilities increased their personal health knowledge after taking a semi-weekly class for four weeks. The study also investigated the use of stability balls at work, finding that they can strengthen core muscles and promote more natural movement.
Purdue researchers have discovered a new approach for repairing damaged nerve fibers in spinal cord injuries using copolymer micelles, which not only deliver drugs but also directly repair axons. The treatment boosts axon recovery from 18% to 60%, showing promising results for treating spinal cord injuries.
Researchers developed a tool to visualize bacterial communication, revealing that chemical signals function simultaneously in interspecies interactions. This approach may aid in understanding microbial interactions with human cells, leading to novel immune system modulators and anti-infectives.
Researchers found a gene deletion in chromosome 15 associated with significant learning and behavioral problems, including developmental delay, mental retardation, and epilepsy. The study suggests that the nicotinic receptor plays a crucial role in these conditions.
The GAZEL study found that older workers' perceived health improves significantly after retirement, especially in those with ideal working conditions. This suggests that improving working conditions is crucial to retaining older workers in the workforce.
The San Jacinto fault in Southern California experiences frequent mini-earthquakes due to deep creep, which releases stored stress. This phenomenon reduces the likelihood of a major earthquake, but does not eliminate it.
Researchers have successfully created a Bose-Einstein condensate of strontium atoms, paving the way for more precise clocks and potential advancements in quantum computing. The achievement is a major breakthrough in ultracold chemistry.
A researcher at the University of Granada has developed a new system for mobility planning in battlefields based on ant colonies' movements. The system, using the ant colony optimization algorithm (ACO), helps army troops find the best path to minimize casualties and speed.
A new study found that air pollution increases the risk of bronchiolitis in infants, with higher exposure levels associated with a significant increase in risk. The research analyzed data from nearly 12,000 infant diagnoses and found that traffic-derived air pollutants were linked to an increased risk of bronchiolitis.
Adding cetuximab to radiation therapy improves survival rates in patients with locally advanced head and neck cancer, with benefits persisting for up to 5 years. Patients who develop a prominent rash after treatment show significantly improved overall survival compared to those without the rash.
Scientists are using DNA barcoding to unravel secrets of ancient plant and animal remains, revealing how life on Earth responded to global climate change. The technology is also being used to identify species in gut contents, soils, and marine life, with important conservation implications.
The American Thoracic Society has issued a statement outlining its positions on research, training, education, patient care, and advocacy. The ATS aims to prioritize altruistic concerns for patients, improve outcome measurement, and advocate for universal access to quality care.
Vein Clinics of America has committed $150,000 over five years to the American College of Phlebology Foundation to advance research, education, and growth in phlebology. The grant will support initiatives aimed at enhancing professional education, increasing public awareness, and improving research in the field.
Two peer-reviewed articles by Kevin Padian and James T. Costa explore common inaccuracies and insights into Darwin's life and work, shedding light on creative scientific thinking and the origins of his theory
Researchers from Spain found that people are willing to pay more for breakfast biscuits with detailed nutritional labels compared to those with minimal information. The study analyzed 400 personal interviews and concluded that brand impact plays a significant role in influencing consumer choices.
Researchers at the University of Oregon and University of Rochester discovered a compound that reverses genetic defects in RNA leading to type 1 myotonic dystrophy. The compound, pentamidine, disrupts complexes formed by expanded repeats and protein molecules, allowing proper splicing errors to be rescued.
A new Cornell study finds that rising temperatures cause nitrogen to escape from desert soils, leading to decreased plant life and soil fertility. The researchers warn that this could exacerbate air pollution and contribute to further desertification.
The world will need a 'Blue Revolution' to address the massive pressure on its water resources due to population growth, changing diets, and climate change. Investments in water can reduce poverty and improve agricultural productivity by refurbishing irrigation systems and promoting rainfed agriculture.
Researchers discovered fungal protein TmpL critical for pathogen development, shielding it from oxidative stress while aiding in infection. TmpL-deficient mutants were more sensitive to external oxidative stress, suggesting its role in protecting pathogens from host defense mechanisms.
Researchers developed a new method to model hydrogen molecule-surface interactions, enabling accurate predictions of chemical reactions. The technique offers 'chemical precision' in calculating reaction barriers and energy changes.
Researchers found that parathyroid hormone can elevate PSA levels in healthy men, leading to unnecessary biopsies and treatment. The study aims to refine the prostate cancer screening test to better differentiate between those who need a biopsy and those who may be spared.
A large clinical trial testing two resuscitation strategies found both equally successful; no additional benefit from using an impedance threshold device during CPR. The study involved approximately 11,500 participants and stopped enrollment early based on preliminary data suggesting no significant improvement in survival rates.
A majority of adults who tried to get the H1N1 vaccine for themselves or their children have been unable to do so. Despite this challenge, most (91%) who were unable to get the vaccine say they will try again this year.
A rapid decline in PET scan activity is correlated with good local tumor control and better lung cancer outcomes. Higher pre-treatment metabolic activity and tumor size are associated with increased risk of death from lung cancer.
A 14,000-year reconstruction of the past climate at Maxwell Bay in Antarctica reveals unprecedented regional synchronous warming and ice loss. The study suggests that current warming is linked to atmospheric trends associated with global climate change.
Researchers aim to understand how the JC virus attaches to host cells, with potential treatments for progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML). The five-year grant will explore the virus's interaction with serotonin receptors in the brain.
A small group of patients with severe Graves' eye disease showed rapid improvement after treatment with rituximab, reducing inflammation and optic nerve damage. The study suggests that rituximab may offer sustained benefits as an alternative to high-dose steroids.
A study found that carotid arterial stenting procedures were associated with poorer clinical outcomes, including heart attack and stroke, in Medicare patients. The increased use of stenting procedures coincided with expanded Medicare coverage, leading to higher rates of mortality and adverse outcomes.
Researchers found a significant increase in gastroschisis births in Washoe County from April 2007 to April 2008, with case mothers more likely to report infections and recreational drug use before pregnancy. The cluster appears to have subsided, but further investigation is needed to understand the underlying causes.
Researchers used a custom-made filter to find 22 early galaxies and confirmed the age of one at 787 million years post-Big Bang. The findings suggest that reionization likely began during this era, with star-formation rates significantly lower than expected.
A new UWM study investigates the factors influencing career decisions among women with engineering degrees, focusing on self-confidence, work-life balance, and workplace climate. The POWER survey aims to design effective policies for increasing women's retention in engineering careers.
Researchers found that French infants produce rising crying tones and German babies cry with falling intonation, suggesting early exposure to language-specific intonation patterns. This study suggests that the sense of hearing develops before other senses and influences a child's ability to learn their mother tongue.
Professor Leonard C. Yannielli receives 2009 Evolution Education Award for his work promoting accurate understanding of biological evolution in the classroom and community. He has developed innovative instructional materials and organized discussions on evolution, working to educate colleagues across academic disciplines.
A recent study found that head injuries can amplify the psychological impact of torture on survivors, with structural brain changes and more severe depression symptoms reported in those who experienced both. The research suggests that physical effects may help explain why standard therapies often don't work for torture survivors.
A new study funded by NIH will investigate whether Transcendental Meditation can aid in the treatment of coronary heart disease. The 12-week trial at Columbia University Medical Center will examine 56 patients with CHD, measuring changes in coronary artery disease using advanced non-invasive methods.
Scientists from Uppsala University have successfully introduced plasmid-based methods into Physcomitrella moss cells, opening doors to powerful techniques in plant research. This breakthrough enables gene cloning and overexpression directly in plant cells without the need for single-cell organisms like bacteria or yeasts.
The American Thyroid Association has released new guidelines for managing thyroid nodules and thyroid cancer, focusing on clinical evaluation, fine-needle biopsy, and surgical management. The revised guidelines aim to provide a framework for the care of patients with nodular thyroid disease and thyroid cancer.
The Alps are constantly rising in height, despite being eroded at the same rate, due to climate-driven uplift. Researchers used rare isotopes to prove this phenomenon, showing that mountains erode concurrently with their growth.
Researchers at Montana State University aim to understand how Adeno-associated Viruses (AAV) assemble and enter cells. They will use this knowledge to build specialized AAVs for targeted gene therapy applications.
The symposium focused on four main topics: mimicking photosynthesis using synthetic materials, production and use of biofuels, developing innovative solar cells, and storage and distribution of solar energy. Scientists have been successful in mimicking the fuel-making process of photosynthesis but must now find ways to do so commercially.
A Mayo Clinic study found that genetic testing results are not binary but probabilistic, requiring physicians to meticulously interpret test results. The study also showed that about 4% of healthy Caucasian volunteers have rare variants present in the background noise of genetic tests.
A study by Eva Pomerantz and Qian Wang found that parental control in Western countries can have negative effects on children's psychological development, while in East Asia, it may be more accepted due to cultural differences. The researchers recommend limiting parents' intrusiveness in their children's lives for both regions.
A new study found that dentists using the computerized system HeartScore can identify patients at risk of fatal cardiovascular events and refer them to physicians. The study followed 200 patients in Sweden and found that dentists were able to accurately assess their risk for serious complications.
The domestic horse genome sequence has been completed, providing access to specific gene sequences for identifying traits. The findings have significant implications for improved breeding practices and studying human health, particularly in relation to shared genetic conditions.
A brain imaging study found that first scents have a unique signature in the brain, regardless of whether they're pleasant or unpleasant. Early odor memories are more easily recalled, especially for bad smells, and can be predicted by brain activity.
A new treatment approach using a radiolabeled antibody to deliver targeted doses of radiation followed by a stem cell transplant has been shown to be effective in treating advanced leukemia. Forty percent of patients achieved remission, with approximately 35% surviving three years.
Gene therapy has been successfully tested in France, halting the progression of adrenoleukodystrophy in two children. The innovative approach uses a modified HIV virus to deliver a therapeutic gene to bone marrow cells, which then migrate to the brain and display correcting potential.
Kent State University has been awarded a $2.7 million NSF grant to train doctoral students in environment sensing technology for freshwater resources protection. The program, EARS, aims to prepare students for careers relevant to freshwater resources.
A team of researchers proposes a novel approach to protect the Amazon rainforest by leaving oil reserves untouched and selling carbon credits. This initiative could fund rainforest protection and combat climate change, but skeptics raise questions about funding and environmental integrity.
A study published in Science reveals that airborne nitrogen from fossil fuels and fertilizers affects alpine lakes, altering the balance of phosphorus and nitrogen. This shift limits phytoplankton growth, affecting food webs and potentially biodiversity.
Researchers will use web-based, patient-controlled personal health records to improve health and HIV prevention outcomes for HIV positive patients. The studies aim to assess the effectiveness of mobile phone text messages and a strategy called SBIRT in reducing drug and alcohol use and improving antiretroviral medication adherence.
Researchers have achieved significant success with gene therapy in treating adrenoleukodystrophy (ALD), a potentially fatal brain disorder. The treatment has arrested the progression of the disease in two boys, showing no adverse effects to date.
Researchers at Binghamton University found that when water striders have the freedom to move between groups, females prefer to cluster around non-aggressive males. This suggests that a 'gentleman' approach to mating is beneficial for group productivity. In contrast, male psychopaths disrupt the group's dynamics and reduce fertility.
A new study found that inadequate clothing can restrict children's outdoor physical activity, with three-quarters of children aged 3-6 years old spending time in childcare settings. The study suggests that parents may need education on the importance of active play for children's development.
As health insurance costs rise, doctors need to talk to patients about their financial situation to make informed treatment decisions. This conversation can help patients choose more affordable treatments and avoid unnecessary expenses.