Researchers found a blood chemical that may signal susceptibility to interstitial cystitis, a painful bladder disorder. The study suggests the disease may have origins in the central nervous system and could lead to new treatment directions.
Researchers have developed a gene delivery approach to target therapeutic genes to nerves in the dorsal root ganglion (DRG), a region affected in various sensory neuronopathies. This method, using helper-dependent adenoviruses, was found to be more efficient at delivering genes to DRG nerves compared to nontargeted versions.
Researchers at Medical College of Wisconsin published first paper describing Milwaukee's largest swine origin influenza (H1N1) outbreak in June 2009. The study identified 679 adults and children with S-OIV infection, making up 18.2% of all tested individuals.
A new study suggests that college-community cooperation programs can help reduce heavy episodic drinking, with a Western Washington University program showing a decline in student binge drinking. The findings highlight the importance of collaboration between colleges and their surrounding neighborhoods to combat problem drinking.
Studies found that glove perforation increased surgical site infection rates by 10%, with no association when antibiotics were used. Implementing measures like double gloving and glove replacement can decrease perforation risk.
Researchers at Baylor College of Medicine have developed a system to target therapeutic genes to nerves in the dorsal root ganglion (DRG), showing dramatic efficiency in gene delivery compared to nontargeted adenoviruses. In mice lacking the Hexb gene, administration of DRG-targeted helper-dependent adenoviruses carrying the Hexb gene ...
Researchers suggest a new paradigm for coping with cybercrime by shifting focus from punishment to deterrence and prevention. Individuals must recognize their own front-line defense against cybercrime and work together to build and maintain defenses.
Researchers at Penn found that people ignore crucial information when making decisions, leading to miscalculations of body weight and calories. The 'Unit Bias' heuristic causes participants to focus solely on certain dimensions, neglecting others.
Scientists at the University of Illinois have developed a light-emitting transistor that sets a new record for signal-processing modulation speed, reaching 4.3 GHz. By reconfiguring the device as a tilted-charge light-emitting diode, researchers were able to break the 7 GHz barrier.
Dr. Charles W. Clendening received the 2009 AIAA Plasmadynamics and Lasers Award for his work on scalable high energy chemical oxide-iodine lasers. He has spent over thirty years developing high power laser technology, previously working for the US Air Force and TRW.
Researchers at UCLA's Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center have developed a unique model to isolate and study lung cancer stem cells. The model uses patient specimens and autologous tumor microenvironments to identify markers associated with cancer stem cells, providing proof-of-concept for the existence of these cells in lung cancer.
A new online decision tool allows prostate cancer patients to weigh their own preferences against medical data to personalize treatment plans. The tool considers multiple factors, including life expectancy and side effects, to guide treatment decisions.
Research suggests that estrogens acting through their receptors affect the dopamine transporter, which may explain trends in timing of women's susceptibility to these diseases. Estrogen levels vary significantly at different life stages, and women are more likely to experience neurological disease onset or exacerbation during these times.
A new species of stinkhorn mushroom, Phallus drewesii, has been discovered on the African island of Sao Tome. The mushroom is notable for its small size, white net-like stem, and brown spore-covered head.
A new study presents PET scan results that can accurately diagnose specific types of dementia, such as Alzheimer's disease, in the early stages. This can lead to targeted treatments and improved care outcomes for over 5 million newly diagnosed patients each year.
Scientists have identified a molecular factor called GARP that plays an essential role in regulatory T cell function. By artificially inserting GARP into transplants, researchers were able to convert immune-reactive T cells into regulatory T cells, which inhibit organ rejection.
Dr. Maya Saleh will investigate the regulation and molecular mechanisms of NLR-mediated innate immunity using a six-year grant from the Burroughs Wellcome Fund. The goal is to identify genes needed for defense against infections, shedding light on human host interactions with infectious agents.
A study of 1,008 patients with obstructive sleep apnea found a significant association between REM-related OSA and type 2 diabetes, with adjusted odds ratios up to 2.8 times higher in middle-aged participants. The researchers suggest that REM-related OSA may be an early marker for type 2 diabetes, especially in women and younger patients.
Physicists have confirmed the existence of a type of material that enables free flow of electrons across its surface with no loss of energy at room temperatures. The discovery of bismuth telluride as a topological insulator could lead to new applications in spintronics and microchip development.
A series of studies published in the Journal of Studies on Alcohol and Drugs found that college prevention programs can effectively reduce heavy episodic drinking and other alcohol-related problems. The programs included counseling for individual students, neighborhood-based initiatives, and community engagement efforts.
Darwin's work has withstood decades of analysis, confirming that animals' mating choices can drive evolutionary change. Molecular markers have also been developed to study paternity and the driving forces behind sexual selection.
A recent study found that US counties with a higher percentage of African-American patients tend to have fewer gastroenterologists and radiation oncologists, while those with more Asian Americans have more specialists. This disparity is linked to disparities in access to quality healthcare services.
Researchers at SNM's 56th Annual Meeting propose a novel approach to reconstructing data that could enable the development of a hybrid PET-MR system. The new method uses MR images as a geometrical reference to estimate attenuation and improve accuracy.
A new study in the Journal of Consumer Research reveals that emotions connected with asking for favors can drive individuals to seek simpler transactions in the marketplace. This phenomenon is linked to feelings of perpetual obligation and social indebtedness.
A new study found that people with stroke impairments experience delays in gripping and releasing objects, but using an arm support device can improve release speed. Active muscle-stretching exercises also showed promise, helping with grip initiation but delaying release.
A team of MIT researchers has developed a new approach to designing stretchable electronics by studying the delamination of stickers, which can lead to damage in twisted materials. By controlling the strength of adhesion and elastic properties, they can create devices that allow wires to move with the material without breaking.
Researchers found that combining high-resolution and high-sensitivity collimation in SPECT scans improves image quality for small tumors. This study suggests a new approach to overcome tradeoffs in SPECT image quality, especially for imaging small tumors.
Researchers at Mayo Clinic have found a peptide that preserves and improves kidney function during heart failure, potentially reducing the risk of kidney damage. The new compound has been tested in laboratory and animal models and is expected to move into clinical trials next year.
Researchers at McMaster University found two types of males in the invasive round goby, including nest-guarding males and sneaker males that parasitize conventional males. This discovery may help scientists understand how to tackle the infestation of Great Lakes watersheds.
Researchers at SNM's 56th Annual Meeting present a prototype breast imaging system combining positron emission tomography (PET) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) technologies. The system aims to provide highly sensitive and specific breast cancer examinations while compensating for the shortcomings of individual PET or MRI systems.
A recent government study reveals a rise in college drinking problems, including heavy episodic drinking, drunk driving, and alcohol-related deaths. The study found that these issues are particularly prevalent among students aged 21-24.
Scientists have discovered a novel signaling pathway in dendritic cells that can be activated by bacterial fragments, leading to the activation of NFAT and triggering an immune response. This discovery has identified potential new therapeutic targets for diseases such as sepsis and chronic heart failure.
Researchers found that ad responses depend on mental energy and attention devoted to the ad, with disinterested consumers reacting to less nuanced messages. Positive ads may not be more persuasive among interested consumers who invest considerable mental resources.
The Gene Expression Atlas collates data from over 1000 studies, providing insights into gene function and development of new drugs. The resource allows users to query gene expression under various conditions, enabling researchers to identify key genes in specific diseases.
A novel method has been developed to analyze microRNA expression levels, enabling more accurate detection of subtle biological changes. The new approach outperforms existing methods in reducing technical variation and accurately representing input RNA fluctuations.
A recent study published by the American Academy of Neurology found that individuals with depression and mild cognitive impairment are at a higher risk of developing Alzheimer's disease. The study also showed that taking donepezil may delay progression to Alzheimer's for those with memory problems.
A recent study found that adherence to the Dietary Guidelines for Americans slows the progression of atherosclerosis in women. The study's results highlight the importance of whole-grain, total fat, and cholesterol intake in reducing cardiovascular disease risk.
New research using meteorite grains reveals that the material incorporated into Earth's planets and life has younger cosmic roots than previously thought. The study found that most of these grains spent less time in interstellar space than estimated, with some as young as 3 million years old.
A meta-analysis of published studies on Bell's palsy found no improved recovery with corticosteroids and antiviral combination therapy. Facial motor function recovery was not significantly different between the two groups.
A study found that young adults decreased their calcium and dairy product intake as they entered their twenties, which can lead to a higher risk of osteoporosis. The researchers suggest that interventions targeting families and adolescents should encourage milk consumption at meals and promote healthy eating habits.
Researchers at the SNM's 56th Annual Meeting found that PET scans can accurately diagnose infections in prosthetic knee joints, outperforming traditional methods. This breakthrough could lead to improved treatment outcomes for patients undergoing joint replacements.
Scientists identified a protein that regulates mitochondrial movement in brain cells, shedding light on how the brain recovers from stroke. Understanding this mechanism may help identify novel approaches for preventing and treating neurological disorders.
Researchers will investigate the human innate immune system and its role in protecting against infections like HPV, which is more frequently associated with the genital tract. The study aims to understand how oral health plays a crucial role in overall health and why some people are better protected than others.
A new study has revealed a significant decrease in the sex difference in birth weight due to growing endocrine disruption related to environmental contaminants. The study found that exposure to contaminants in plastic materials may be responsible for this phenomenon.
A report by Rice University scientists warns that growing biofuels could harm the nation's water resources, degrading quality and affecting availability. The researchers suggest choosing drought-tolerant crops grown on minimal irrigation to balance energy needs with water conservation.
The new system detects sepsis in real-time, alerting doctors to potential cases. The team also plans to add an automated decision support system to guide physicians through sepsis treatment.
Researchers found that bundling two products together and describing one as free leads consumers to devalue individual items. This effect, known as the 'freebie devaluation' effect, occurs because consumers make inferences about product quality based on the perceived value of the free item.
Researchers discovered the large blue butterfly's extreme dependence on a single ant species led to its demise. The study reveals how habitat overgrowth caused soil temperatures to drop, resulting in diminishing ant numbers and ultimately, the butterflies' decline.
A study shows that CPAP therapy significantly improves complaints of fatigue, tiredness, and sleepiness in patients with obstructive sleep apnea. Good adherence to CPAP was associated with improved symptoms, particularly among inadequately treated participants.
Scientists have created a high-resolution climate record from ocean sediment dating back over 500,000 years, revealing four glacial cycles and the warming of North Atlantic waters. The record provides valuable insights into the extent of ancient ice sheets and their impact on ocean currents.
The Network of African Science Academies (NASAC) urges G8+5 countries to invest in rebuilding universities and research centers in Africa. NASAC also calls on the international community to support young African scientists seeking postgraduate and postdoctoral training.
Researchers have discovered a new target for the diagnosis and treatment of age-related macular degeneration by blocking the activity of the CCR3 protein. This approach shows promise as a safer and more effective alternative to current treatments, which target vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF).
Research by Carol Grayson highlights the risks of paid blood donors and the need for an open and safe blood policy to prevent patients from contracting blood-borne infections. The study found that successive UK governments failed to prioritize self-sufficiency in blood products, leading to the contamination of blood supplies.
A new study from the University of Utah Health discovers that sperm delivers more complex genetic material than previously thought, which may promote healthy baby development. The research also raises concerns about how a man's aging, health, and lifestyle affect fertility and embryo development.
Michael R. Kilbourn, a professor at the University of Michigan, received the prestigious Paul C. Aebersold Award for his contributions to molecular imaging and nuclear medicine. He has advanced research efforts in various areas, including positron emission tomography (PET) radiopharmaceuticals.
Researchers have identified a key gene, eIF4G1, overexpressed in the majority of cases of IBC, leading to rapid metastasis and high mortality rates. The study's findings could lead to new approaches and therapies for treating IBC.
Researchers have identified two new genetic locations linked to Multiple Sclerosis and other autoimmune diseases. The discovery offers promising targets for disease susceptibility and may lead to the development of novel therapeutics.
Researchers suggest a promising approach to create an antibody-based HIV vaccine by leveraging naturally occurring broadly neutralizing antibodies. By understanding how these antibodies evolve and persist, scientists aim to develop a vaccine that can prime the body to make protective antibodies before exposure to HIV.
Researchers have found a novel bacterium, Herminiimonas glaciei, trapped under glacial ice in Greenland for over 120,000 years. The tiny microbe, 10-50 times smaller than E. coli, has survived in extreme conditions and may provide insights into extraterrestrial life.
A study published in Nature Cell Biology has shed light on the protein network that provides scaffolding for cell-wall structure and delivers growth-promoting molecules. The research discovered a novel mechanism by which microtubules guide cellulose synthase complexes to their place of action.