Noroviruses cause the greatest incidence of vomiting and diarrhoea globally, resulting in approximately 200,000 child deaths annually. A new study suggests that targeting sugar chains with sialic acid could prevent virus attachment to cells.
Researchers have successfully engineered a tunable bandgap in bilayer graphene, opening the way for nanoscale electronics and photonics. The breakthrough allows for precise control over the bandgap size and doping level, enabling new types of nanotransistors and nano-LEDs.
The revised Vienna Classification enhances diagnosing colorectal polyps and lesions with improved sensitivity and specificity. However, it has limitations in predicting depth of invasion, and should be supplemented by endoscopic assessment.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins School of Medicine have discovered that the AMPA receptor protein moves to its destination with the help of the 4.1N protein, forming long-term memories. The study found that 4.1N is required to maintain strong connections between neurons, making memories stick.
A large cohort study found that metoclopramide poses no significant risks for fetal development when used to relieve morning sickness nausea, supporting its safe use during pregnancy. The study analyzed data from over 80,000 infants born to mothers who received the medication during the first trimester.
A new study found that hormone therapy combined with physical activity significantly reduces belly fat and body fat percentage in postmenopausal women. The research, which included 34 healthy women, showed that active women had lower waist measurements and better cholesterol levels after 4 months of hormone replacement therapy.
A study of 159,856 individuals found that socioeconomic status, gender, and marital status are significant predictors of sleep disturbances. Women reported more sleep problems than men, while married individuals slept better than single individuals.
A new clinical trial has begun at Massachusetts General Hospital to expand restorative neurotechnology research for patients with paralysis. The trial aims to harness brain signals to control assistive devices, such as computers and prosthetic limbs, for people with spinal cord injuries, ALS, or limb loss.
Dogs can be diagnosed with osteoarthritis early on through synovial fluid analysis, which could help prevent the disease or reduce its progression. Researchers found altered synovial fluid quantity and quality in injured joints, suggesting potential biomarkers for early detection.
Astronomers use new calculations to redefine habitable zones, considering tidal forces that can impact planet's climate and life. The revised definition limits potential habitable environments, focusing searches on overlapping zones.
The Chinese Journal of Natural Medicines is now available in English on ScienceDirect, increasing international accessibility to Chinese medical research. This expansion enables pharmaceutical and medical scientists to stay updated on the latest advancements in traditional Chinese medicines.
A team of scientists at The University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center has identified four new targets for breast cancer treatment, including three lysophosphatidic acid receptors and the enzyme autotaxin. These targets are found to be abnormally expressed in many types of cancer and have been shown to cause cancer.
The BrainGate2 pilot clinical trial is taking place at Massachusetts General Hospital, extending prior safety and feasibility research of the BrainGate Neural Interface System. The trial aims to help patients with spinal cord injury, stroke, muscular dystrophy, ALS, or limb loss turn their thoughts into actions.
Research finds that new mothers experience exhaustion due to disrupted nighttime sleep, rather than inadequate sleep duration or timing. Postpartum women's sleep-wake cycles remain aligned with their preferred schedule.
Astronomers at the Science and Technology Facilities Council's William Herschel Telescope have confirmed an effective way to search the atmospheres of planets for signs of life. This method uses transmission spectra, which can reveal vital information about a planet's atmosphere, providing clues about potential biological processes.
Researchers found that BPA exposure during pregnancy leads to a permanent change in the DNA of offspring, affecting uterine development and fertility. The study's findings suggest that pregnant women should avoid BPA exposure to minimize potential harm to their unborn children.
Researchers found pre-pregnancy depressive mood may be a risk factor for premature birth among both blacks and whites, but the study did not establish cause and effect. Black women have nearly twice the odds of having a preterm birth compared to white women, potentially due to declining health over time.
Research finds that poor sleep affects relationship satisfaction, with negative partner interactions leading to worse sleep the next night. Couples' quality of sleep also impacts their subsequent relationship functioning.
Researchers have developed a new white paper coating inspired by the Cyphochilus beetle's shell, which produces a bright and efficient whiteness. The coating uses a unique structure to scatter white light, resulting in a lighter weight paper with high whiteness, potentially reducing costs.
Dr. Michael J. Wade, a renowned evolutionary biologist, will receive the 2009 Sewell Wright Award for his seminal contributions to multi-level selection and the study of evolution. His work has been cited over 5500 times and has formed a significant part of the conceptual landscape for the 'levels of selection' discussion.
Researchers found that typhoons trigger slow earthquakes in eastern Taiwan, with 11 events occurring within a five-year study period. The slow quakes are characterized by non-violent fault slippage events that release energy hours or days after the typhoon passes.
A study found that hospitalists who staff short-stay units with accessible diagnostic tests and consultations have successful stays. Patients requiring less complex care had successful stays, while those needing specialty consultations were more likely to have unsuccessful stays.
Research found that adolescents who get more high-quality sleep have better math scores, while those who experience difficulties waking up tend to perform worse in English. The study suggests that a consistent sleep schedule is crucial for academic success, especially during critical developmental periods.
Research by Emory University scientists identifies a mechanism in mother mice's brains that focuses their awareness on the calls of baby mice. The high-frequency sounds of pups inhibit neurons more attuned to lower frequency sounds, enhancing contrast and making them stand out.
Researchers discovered that mother mice exhibit increased call-evoked inhibition in response to pup isolation calls, allowing for more effective detection in noisy environments. This neural plasticity improves the contrast between high-ultrasonic and lower-frequency neural populations.
Versartis has presented positive preclinical data on its two product candidates, VRS-317 and VRS-826, which have the potential to extend half-life of drugs. The company's compounds have shown in vivo potency equal to daily hGH and sustained plasma levels without toxicity.
Researchers have gained new understanding of the disease through a groundbreaking animal model, revealing that B cells play a critical role in its development. The study also highlights the importance of aggressive T cells, which attack brain tissue and trigger antibody attacks by B cells.
Researchers have found that humans are likely exposed to a daily dose of bisphenol A (BPA) that far exceeds the current estimated safe daily intake dose. The study, which involved five female adult monkeys, suggests that BPA exposure comes from multiple unknown sources beyond food and beverage containers.
A randomized trial of 500 women with twin pregnancy found that progesterone treatment did not reduce the likelihood of delivery or intrauterine death before 34 weeks. The meta-analysis also confirmed that progesterone does not prevent early preterm birth in twin pregnancies.
Tulane University is partnering with South American universities to address the high burden of cardiovascular disease in the region, which claims one-third of chronic disease deaths. The new center will focus on research, training, and health education to prevent and treat CVD through quantitative methods and skills development.
Recent research found that Tribble 3 can block the insulin signaling pathway, contributing to insulin resistance and NAFLD. The study provides an experimental basis for future studies on the role of TRB3 in NAFLD.
The National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) is funding a network of research and training centers in developing countries to prevent and control chronic diseases. The centers will conduct research tailored to local needs and foster the training of emerging scientists and health professionals. With UnitedHealth Group's Chronic...
A recent study published at the SLEEP 2009 conference found that caffeine use prevented increased risky behavior in individuals subjected to extreme sleep deprivation. Despite prolonged sleep deprivation, participants who consumed caffeine showed no significant increase in impulsive risk-taking behavior, unlike those receiving a placebo.
A recent study found that individuals with rheumatoid arthritis experience significant disturbances in their body clock, leading to worsening of symptoms. The research identified a specific genetic pathway responsible for interactions between the genes regulating the body clock and those exacerbating arthritis symptoms.
A study published in Nature found that fat cells in bone marrow suppress blood production, making it harder for patients to recover from chemotherapy or radiation. Blocking this fatty infiltration could enhance blood recovery after transplant.
Researchers at the University of Montreal Hospital Research Centre have developed a new surgical technique to treat refractory epilepsy, with nine patients showing successful results. The innovative approach reduces risks and complications associated with previous insular surgeries.
A study by Baylor College of Medicine found that retinoic acid and Neurogenin2 cooperate to activate chromatin and determine nerve progenitor cells become motor neurons. This discovery may lead to generating motor neurons from different stem cells and developing tools for drug screening.
A new study evaluates expected ground motion in Seattle, Victoria, and Vancouver from earthquakes of magnitude 7.5 - 9.0, providing a tool to build or retrofit structures to withstand seismic waves. Ground motions are estimated for firm ground at the three sites, with a model that engineers can adjust for local soil conditions.
A study of 133 women with rheumatoid arthritis found that symptoms such as pain and depression significantly impacted sleep quality. Treating depression may also improve pain and medication adherence, according to researchers.
Researchers uncover neural mechanism supporting adaptability and decision-making under uncertainty, with the frontal lobe playing a critical role in tracking evidence and switching behavior.
A recent study published at SLEEP 2009 found a significant link between poor sleep quality and an increased risk of death. The research, which followed over 5,600 participants for eight years, revealed that two specific types of sleep-stage transitions were associated with higher mortality risk.
The report reveals stark contrasts in tobacco control policies and use across the US, with serious disparities remaining. States with strong programs and policies exhibit lower smoking prevalence and higher quit rates, while others lag behind, hindering overall progress.
Engineers from Penn and Sandia National Laboratories demonstrate the formation of interconnected carbon nanostructures on graphene substrate using a simple assembly process. The discovery may lead to new approach of graphene-based electronic devices.
A new study found that postpartum anxiety can delay puberty in both biological and adoptive daughters of affected mothers, regardless of maternal behavior or environment.
A new study suggests that natural hormone angiotensin 1-7 may help treat the metabolic syndrome, a cluster of risk factors increasing heart disease and diabetes risk. Angiotensin 1-7 lowered fasting insulin levels and improved triglycerides and blood sugar in fructose-fed rats.
Researchers discovered a protein profile that may accurately predict tamoxifen resistance in breast cancer patients. The study found that the extracellular matrix metalloproteinase inducer (EMMPRIN) was significantly associated with an earlier tumor progression and poor clinical outcome.
Researchers found that two-channel GES with trains of pulses can entrain gastric slow waves and accelerate gastric emptying. This treatment approach may be applicable for treating gastroparesis and normalizing gastric dysrhythmia.
A zero-tolerance policy towards underage alcohol use in the home may significantly reduce the likelihood of college students binge drinking, according to a study by Caitlin Abar. The study found that students whose parents did not permit them to drink underage were less likely to engage in heavy drinking, regardless of gender.
Exposure to low-dose BPA and estrogen increases arrhythmias in female rats and mice, a new study found. The results suggest a possible risk for female heart health due to increased levels of estrogens in the body and exposure to environmental estrogen BPA.
Astronomers have discovered a rare type of stellar explosion known as SN 2008ha, which is 1000 times more powerful than a nova but 1000 times less powerful than a typical supernova. The explosion was detected by a 14-year-old student from New York and shed new light on the nature of stellar explosions.
A recent study found that 55 percent of older adults reported sleeping less than seven hours per night, highlighting the need for improved sleep habits in this demographic. The study also revealed that individuals with depressive symptoms and poor mental health were more likely to experience short sleep duration.
Scientists have found a novel way cells fix damage to their DNA, which may also limit the effectiveness of chemotherapy agents. The discovery sheds light on a previously unknown protein called ATLs and its role in connecting two DNA repair pathways.
Researchers found a singular mutation in the FOXL2 gene that causes granulosa cell tumours, a rare and often untreatable form of ovarian cancer. The discovery provides a specific diagnostic tool and potential treatment pathway for women with this cancer type.
A new hybrid of the American chestnut tree has been developed that can sequester more carbon than other hardwood species. The trees grow faster and larger, allowing them to store more carbon in a shorter amount of time, which could help slow climate change.
The study uses radio telescope images to confirm the presence of a rotating molecular disk orbiting the young binary star system V4046 Sagittarii. The discovery expands the number of places to look for extrasolar planets, suggesting that planet formation may occur around double stars as easily as single stars.
A recent study published in The Lancet found that a treatment intended to prevent premature births in single pregnancies may be ineffective in women expecting twins. Researchers discovered an underlying difference between premature births in women with single and multiple pregnancies, which could inform improvements in treatment.
Researchers found clusters of smaller raindrops falling at speeds exceeding their terminal speed, especially during heavier rainfall. This discovery could improve weather measurement and prediction accuracy, benefiting industries like agriculture, construction, and aviation.
A study by Ohio State University found that people tend to avoid reading articles about personal issues like love and romance, but seek out information on less emotionally charged topics like finances. The study suggests that individuals use media as a way to cope with problems and escape emotional distress.
Researchers have discovered a direct relationship between carbon dioxide emissions and global warming, allowing for the estimation of climate change based on cumulative carbon emissions. The study suggests that limiting total carbon emissions is crucial to avoid dangerous climate change.
A new study led by Thomas Jefferson University researchers suggests that a minimum of three demyelinating features can be used to positively identify Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyneuropathy (CIDP). This finding may help doctors diagnose CIDP more effectively and treat patients earlier, potentially preventing further disability.
Bisphenol A (BPA) exposure may be associated with abnormal activity in female rat and mouse hearts, potentially leading to improper heartbeat control. Researchers found estrogen receptors play a key role in this effect, which could have significant implications for women's heart health.
Alpesh Patel, a senior at MCG School of Dentistry, has identified proteins responsible for inhibiting oral cancer cell growth when exposed to blue curing light. He found that this phenomenon reduces tumor growth in mice, offering a promising alternative treatment.
Researchers identified prokineticin 2 as an appetite suppressant that works in rodents and may be used to develop an effective weight loss therapy. The molecule reduced hunger and led to significant weight loss of almost 5 percent in lean and obese mice.
The NHLBI and UnitedHealth Group collaboration aims to broaden study beyond individual diseases to address chronic diseases as they group. Early results show encouraging progress in developing portable tools and comprehensive guidelines for chronic disease management.
A new study published by Oregon State University researchers found that hatchery fish significantly impair the reproductive fitness of their offspring, even if they survive and reproduce in the wild. This could be hurting efforts to sustain wild salmon runs, scientists said.
A study published in the World Journal of Gastroenterology found that endoscopic ultrasonography (EUS) is unable to distinguish between malignant and benign gallbladder polyps smaller than 1 cm. The study suggests that EUS alone may not be sufficient for determining a treatment strategy for these small lesions.
A soil microbe uses an enzyme to produce a herbicidal compound by breaking a non-activated carbon-carbon bond in a single step. The study provides the first three-dimensional structure of the enzyme and proposes a mechanism for its task.
A recent study found that hormone therapy can alter prostate tumor properties, making them more aggressive and prone to metastasis. The treatment reduces male sex hormone production, but also increases levels of proteins enabling cancer cells to spread.
Researchers found cocaine and heroin increase antipyrine transfer across human placental tissue, compromising barrier function. This may lead to harm from more toxic substances crossing the placenta and affecting fetal health.
A new study found that nearly a third of first-degree relatives of BAV patients have enlarged aortas, a potentially serious condition. The study also revealed that 53% of BAV patients had enlarged aortas, and 9.4% of first-degree relatives had BAV.
A new animal study has identified a specific genetic cause of fetal alcohol-related developmental disorders, which may lead to targeted treatment. Fetal alcohol exposure can disrupt thyroid hormone levels, leading to neurodevelopmental disorders such as emotional behavioral disorders and deficits in learning, memory, and speech.
A study published in Significance found that private school pupils in Britain earn an average of 30% higher earnings than state school students, primarily due to higher qualifications. The study controlled for family background and other factors, suggesting that a private education offers additional benefits.
Researchers at USC School of Dentistry and Viterbi School of Engineering developed a non-thermal plasma dental probe that destroys bacterial colonies and disinfects hard-to-reach areas. The tool uses pulsed power to create a room temperature plasma with antibacterial properties.
A study by the American Academy of Sleep Medicine found that stably married women had better sleep quality than unmarried or recently widowed women. Women who had gained a partner over eight years also experienced similar subjective sleep quality but more restless sleep.
Researchers explore geologic evolution of Savu Island, active tectonic maps for the Tibet-Himalaya region, and syntectonic zoning in biotite porphyroblasts. The study also delves into the potential for explosive eruptions and growth patterns of silicic volcanoes.
Researchers have discovered a new drug, Debio 025, which is as effective as current treatment options but without the risk of infection and immunosuppression. The study found that Debio 025 protects mice from muscle-wasting diseases similar to human muscular dystrophy.
Dieter Kotschick solved Hirzebruch's problem, determining that most Chern numbers depend on algebraic structure of a variety, not topological properties. The breakthrough resolves the relationship between flexible and rigid geometric objects.
Researchers at Mayo Clinic have found that bariatric surgery may be associated with an increased risk of fractures, particularly in the hands and feet. The study, which analyzed nearly 100 surgical cases over a 21-year period, showed that 21 individuals experienced 31 fractures within seven years after surgery.
A study found that older adults (59-82 years) are more resilient to total sleep deprivation on various cognitive tasks, such as working memory and verbal encoding. In contrast, young adults (19-38 years) experienced significant declines in performance under similar conditions.
Jay Pasachoff's review article highlights the importance of ground-based solar eclipses for observing unique phenomena. The upcoming total solar eclipse on July 22 will allow scientists to advance our understanding of the solar atmosphere and make important observations.
Scientists at the University of California, Berkeley, have created tunable semiconductors using bilayer graphene, which can change its bandgap and Fermi energy with an applied electric field. This breakthrough enables the creation of reconfigurable electronic devices, potentially holding millions of differently tuned devices.
A Cornell University study found that dairy farming has decreased its environmental impact over the past 60 years, with a 41% reduction in total carbon footprint. This is due to improved efficiency and management practices.
A study on guppies led by UC Riverside's Swanne Gordon found that the fish adapted to a new environment in less than 30 generations, or eight years. The guppies developed larger and fewer offspring with each reproductive cycle in the low-predation environment, but not in the high-predation environment.
Researchers found that young mice are resistant to proteoglycan-induced arthritis, but become susceptible with age due to immunological senescence and impaired immune regulation. This study sheds light on the complex mechanisms underlying age-related changes in arthritis susceptibility.
Researchers at McGill University have pinpointed the key cellular machinery co-opted by HIV-1, allowing it to efficiently transport its RNA genome to the plasma membrane. This discovery opens up hopes for devising strategies to block the process and could lead to treatments to combat the virus.
A study published in BMC Biology has identified 59 genetic mutations in 57 genes that impact the behavior of fruit flies. Researchers found that certain mutations increase aggression, while others make the flies more placid.
A recent study found that parental presence at bedtime has a greater negative impact on infant sleep than actual co-sleeping. Children who slept in separate rooms obtained more sleep, woke less at night, and had fewer sleep problems.
Researchers at Rutgers University have discovered a potential new treatment for childhood epilepsy, using the therapeutic drug rapamycin to suppress epileptic seizures in mice. The study, published in Disease Models and Mechanisms, shows promise for treating cortical dysplasia, a common cause of childhood epilepsy.
A new parent questionnaire, Language Use Inventory (LUI), has been developed to evaluate language skills in children with autism. The LUI assesses pragmatic language development, which is critical for effective communication in everyday interactions.
Research shows a two-way link between chronic stress and poor sleep, with both factors contributing to impaired daytime functioning. Individuals experiencing more fatigue are also more likely to report high levels of stress.
Researchers at The Wistar Institute have defined a key target of an evolutionarily conserved protein that regulates the process of aging. Deacetylation of histone H4K16 by Sir2 maintains telomere stability, crucial for yeast cells to replicate and live longer.
Researchers have discovered a mechanism by which nanoparticles cause lung damage, triggering programmed cell death through autophagy. They also found that blocking this process with an autophagy inhibitor can counteract the damage, providing a promising lead for developing safety strategies for nanotechnology.
A study found that napping with REM sleep decreases negative bias and increases recognition of positive emotions, making individuals more receptive to happy facial expressions. This adaptation is critical for social interactions and professional judgments.