Researchers at EMBL discovered Vtc4p as the protein responsible for producing polyphosphate chains in yeast, a process crucial for energy storage and other cellular functions. This finding has significant implications for agriculture, including improved crop production and fertilizer development.
A subset of immune cells has been found to contribute to the development of severe malaria by suppressing the immune system and allowing parasites to grow uncontrollably. This discovery could lead to new drug targets and immunotherapies against malaria, as well as insights into other inflammatory diseases.
Researchers discovered benfotiamene, a fat-soluble form of vitamin B1, strongly suppresses uveitis by shutting down NF-kappa B activation. This treatment has great potential due to its low cost and rapid absorption, with existing clinical trials showing improved diabetic polyneuropathy outcomes.
The Lancet Editorial highlights the dire humanitarian situation in Sri Lanka, citing higher maternal and infant mortality rates in the Tamil-dominated northeast. The report attributes these inequalities to violence, economic embargo, and discrimination against Tamils.
NICE is expanding its programs and taking on new initiatives due to the Next Stage Review of the NHS. The institute will build a web-based portal called NHS Evidence, providing validated information for clinicians and managers.
A study published in the Journal of Neuroscience found that a specific gene can be 'switched on' in animals without a genetic predisposition to epilepsy, leading to changes in calcium channels and brain activity. This discovery may reveal a new mechanism for how epilepsy develops in some individuals.
Patients with vertebral compression fractures experience prolonged intense pain, with over two-thirds reporting severe pain one year after injury. Current treatment and advice are deemed insufficient, requiring revised approaches to improve patient outcomes.
Prototype systems performed surprisingly well in NIST tests, with half accurate at least 80% of the time. The technology frees up time for trained examiners to focus on difficult images that software has limited capabilities to process.
Research suggests a link between vitamin D insufficiency and increased asthma severity in children, including hospitalizations, airway reactivity, and use of inhaled steroids. Vitamin D levels were inversely linked to several indicators of allergy and asthma severity.
A national study found that adolescent delinquency is linked to an increase in the likelihood of marriage and a lower age at first marriage. Substance abuse, particularly among girls who abuse marijuana, leads to a lower likelihood of marriage by their late 20s.
A new material developed at the University of Michigan can heal itself when it cracks due to its designed narrow hairline cracks. The self-healing concrete recovered most of its original strength after being subjected to a 3% tensile strain, making it safer and more durable for infrastructure.
Studies found that illusionary relationships with TV characters can give people real pleasure, reducing feelings of loneliness and rejection. The research suggests that technologies like TV shows and video games can fulfill human needs for belongingness.
A new study published in the Journal of Marriage and Family reveals that Americans have an ambivalent attitude towards single-parent families. The research found that critical depictions of divorce decreased over time, reflecting an acceptance of divorce, but attitudes towards nonmarital childbearing remained largely negative.
A new study by University of Miami researchers found that physical attractiveness, personality, and grooming have a significant impact on high school grades. Grooming is the strongest predictor for boys, while personality is more important for girls.
Research finds that atmospheric pollution has enhanced global plant productivity by up to a quarter since 1960, leading to a 10% increase in carbon stored by the land. This unexpected effect occurs due to increased diffuse radiation reaching the Earth's surface under hazy conditions.
Researchers found that lymphocytes, a type of immune system cell, produce the inflammatory protein RANKL when breast cancer cells are present. This leads to increased lung metastases. Blocking RANKL can halt cancer progression and may be a potential target for drug therapy.
A new Northwestern University study finds that relationship satisfaction after marriage depends on a partner's ability to fulfill responsibilities and commitments. The research reveals that dating couples prioritize partner support for personal growth, while married couples value it for maintaining their partnership. This insight could...
Researchers at Georgetown University Medical Center found that hormone levels in blood do not accurately reflect breast cancer risk. The study suggests that measuring hormones in blood may give a false impression of breast cancer risk and an imprecise picture of how these hormones affect breast cancer development.
A University of Michigan study found that grapes lowered blood pressure and reduced signs of heart damage by altering cellular activity. The researchers suggest that the phytochemicals in grapes turned on protective genes that reduce damage to the heart muscle.
A new study finds that public commenters who participate early in the regulatory policymaking process can significantly influence the direction of regulatory proposals. These 'public' participants, often interest groups, can help shape the content of regulations and may thwart unwanted policies.
A new Australian study reveals a significant rise in neonatal withdrawal syndrome among newborns, with 906 cases diagnosed between 1980 and 2005. The research highlights the need for early identification and intervention to prevent abuse and neglect.
A study by LSUHSC public health researcher Liwei Chen found that reducing liquid calorie intake, especially from sugar-sweetened beverages, is significantly associated with weight loss. The study's findings suggest that policy recommendations and public health efforts to reduce liquid calorie intake can help combat obesity.
The Olympus platform enables surgeons to perform gallbladder removal, hernia repair, appendectomy, and urological or gynecological surgery through a single incision in the belly button. The TriPort access system and EndoEYE technology provide high-quality images and flexibility for minimal trauma.
Research from NHANES data reveals that drinking 100% fruit juice is associated with a lower risk of obesity and metabolic syndrome. Juice consumers were found to have better insulin sensitivity, lower BMI, and smaller waist circumference compared to non-consumers.
The Compact Array Broadband Backend (CABB) project has upgraded CSIRO's radio telescope near Narrabri in NSW, increasing its bandwidth from 128 MHz to 2 GHz. This upgrade enables astronomers to capture more data from the sky faster and detect cosmic objects more quickly.
Researchers found that HIV antibodies face obstacles in blocking infection, with a narrow window of opportunity for effective binding due to the virus's low spike density. This finding highlights potential challenges for developing an effective vaccine against HIV.
Researchers have developed an engineered antibody called DTA-1 that helps the immune system overcome its natural reluctance to attack tumor cells. In a mouse model of melanoma, DTA-1 led to rejection of 50-60% of tumors by impairing regulatory T cells, providing new hope for improved cancer treatment options.
A mouse study found that genetics play a role in susceptibility and resistance to prenatal alcohol exposure, with some strains showing teratogenic effects while others resisted, suggesting genetic influence. The study also highlights the importance of considering genetic factors in human FASD research.
A new study reveals that type 2 diabetes, obesity, and hypertension are associated with higher mortality rates in hepatitis C patients. The research found that metabolic syndrome components, such as diabetes and high BMI, were linked to increased overall and liver-related mortality in HCV-infected patients.
A Stanford study found that California's high school exit exam has failed to meet its primary goal of improving student achievement, particularly among low-achieving minority and girls students. The exam was not a fair assessment of their basic skill levels due to stereotype threat, which prevents them from performing well on the test.
A peer-reviewed journal highlights RESPeRATE's effectiveness in treating hypertension, emphasizing the importance of individualized attention and non-traditional methods. Nurse practitioners are encouraged to play a leading role in providing comprehensive care to hypertensive patients.
A study of 39,367 Swedish men found that eating fatty fish once a week reduced the risk of heart failure by 12%, while consuming more than three servings per week did not show a significant difference. Omega-3 fatty acids in fish oils were also linked to a 33% lower risk of heart failure.
Researchers have identified 39 interaction partners of bacterial toxins, revealing how these toxins manipulate human host cell signaling pathways. This breakthrough could lead to the development of new treatments targeting the underlying mechanisms disrupted by bacterial toxins.
Researchers at the University of Leeds have developed chemicals that kill the deadliest malaria-causing parasite, Plasmodium falciparum, and those resistant to existing drugs. These compounds work by preventing an enzyme essential to the parasite's growth, resulting in its death.
Researchers at UBC's Biomedical Research Centre have identified S1P as a molecule that can open the thymic gate for migrating stem cells. This discovery holds promise for increasing the success of blood stem cell transplants, which are currently used to treat diseases such as leukemia and aplastic anemia.
A new study by Baylor College of Medicine found that students who chewed sugar-free gum showed an increase in standardized math test scores and final grades compared to those who didn't chew gum. Chewing gum was associated with a three percent increase in standardized math test scores, a small but statistically significant change.
A recent study has found that the Humanin peptide protects against neuronal cell death and regulates insulin metabolism, significantly improving glucose levels in diabetic rats. The discovery provides new insight into the role of the brain in glucose metabolism and suggests a potential therapeutic approach to diabetes.
A study found that media coverage of celebrity DUIs rarely addressed the health consequences, focusing instead on legal repercussions. Only 4% of reports mentioned potential injury or harm from DUI events.
A study by University of Michigan researchers found that people with a family member or friend in prison experience worse physical and mental health, stress, and depressive symptoms. This toll affects African Americans disproportionately due to higher rates of incarceration.
Introducing congestion pricing at airports could reduce airport congestion and delays, saving airlines money. However, some airports with monopoly airlines may not benefit from this approach, and passengers may need to adjust their plans to arrive earlier.
A team of Boston University researchers has developed a new method for engineering genetic circuits using combinatorial libraries and computer modeling. This approach enables the rapid construction of gene networks with predictable behaviors, accelerating synthetic biology research. The technique involves creating libraries of diverse ...
A new study led by Montana State University researcher Philip Higuera finds that changes in vegetation can either reduce or increase the risk of wildfires, even under climate change. The research suggests that considering vegetation's impact on fire regimes is crucial for predicting future wildfire patterns.
Researchers at Los Alamos National Laboratory have discovered a potential weakness in the cell walls of certain plant materials, making them vulnerable to enzymatic attack. This insight could lead to an economical and viable process for producing biofuels from biomass.
A list of 100 key scientific questions has been published to aid conservation efforts. These questions, compiled by 761 conservationists and academics, aim to address gaps in knowledge on issues such as climate change and ecosystem function. Answering these questions could help stem massive biodiversity loss.
A new study found that donor-related risk factors, yet to be identified, contribute measurably to the success or failure of kidney transplants. The study examined pairs of recipients who received kidneys from the same deceased donor and found significant correlations between unmeasured risk factors and delayed graft function and kidney...
A research team led by Dr Keith Shearwin and Dr Ian Dodd from the University of Adelaide has been awarded a US$900,000 grant to investigate DNA looping. The study aims to understand how correct DNA loops are formed to control gene expression in cells.
The Elsevier Grand Challenge was won by two teams, Reflect and CORAAL, which developed innovative tools for managing online life sciences information. The winners were chosen by a distinguished panel of judges and received cash prizes of $35,000 and $15,000, respectively.
Researchers at NIST have demonstrated a technique for suppressing errors in quantum computers using an array of ultracold beryllium ions. The new method counteracts random errors caused by stray electric or magnetic fields, reducing error rates up to 100 times more than comparable techniques.
A third of teens using cannabis regularly use it as a medication to relieve health problems such as depression, anxiety and sleep difficulties. The study found that cannabis provided immediate relief without the unpleasant side effects of prescribed medications.
Researchers have identified cellular components in mosquitoes and humans that the dengue virus uses to multiply, paving the way for potential treatments. The study found 116 host factors, including 42 with human counterparts, which may serve as targets for new drugs.
A large study found that hormone therapy use was associated with a 28% lower incidence rate of colorectal cancer in older women. However, the mechanisms behind this protective effect are still unclear. The study also found no associations between hormone use and specific molecular markers or DNA methylation patterns.
A study found that adolescent binge drinkers have lower coherence of white matter fibers, suggesting poorer white matter health. This compromise can lead to difficulties in processing information and emotional functioning.
A new study reveals that double-lung transplants significantly improve long-term survival rates compared to single lung transplants. The research found that immune system matching and college education also play crucial roles in extending life after lung transplant surgery.
Researchers have discovered that proton pump inhibitors, commonly used to treat ulcers, have significant neuroprotective properties and can enhance the effects of ibuprofen when used together. This finding suggests a new treatment potential for Alzheimer's disease.
A new species of early T.rex relative, Xiongguanlong, and a giant ornithomimosaur, Beishanlong grandis, are described as part of a study on theropod dinosaurs from China. These discoveries provide insight into the evolution of tyrannosaurs, revealing that massive skulls evolved from animals with long, slender snouts.
Researchers studied 2,736 participants over 12 years and found a 66% higher risk of dementia among heavy NSAID users. The study suggests that earlier findings suggesting NSAIDs prevent or delay Alzheimer's disease may have been due to younger age groups.
Olivier Voinnet's groundbreaking research on gene silencing via RNA has opened new perspectives on controlling gene activity, with implications for medicine and genome integrity. His work has also shed light on the molecular arms race between hosts and parasites.
A developmental drug, JP4-039, has been shown to protect cells from radiation-induced cell death by assisting the mitochondria in combating irradiation. The study suggests a potential role for the drug as a mitigator of radiation damage.
A study by the University of California San Francisco found that US and foreign transplant physicians express serious concern about organ procurement in China, citing coercion of organ donors and substandard medical practices. The majority of doctors surveyed would not provide post-transplantation care to patients who underwent liver t...
Infertility has serious consequences for women in Nigeria, particularly those with patrilineal descent structures. In Amakiri, infertile women face marginal living conditions and limited social status.