Experts warn that the buy-to-let market will survive the recession, but smaller private landlords will struggle to compete. The report suggests that lenders will favor established properties over new builds in city centers, limiting geographical access for investors.
MIT engineers have developed a new tissue scaffold that can stimulate bone and cartilage growth when transplanted into joints. The technology has shown promise in small defects and could offer a more effective, less expensive, and easier alternative to current treatments for sports injuries and arthritis.
Researchers found that zinc-coordinated reaction centers have similar physical and chemical properties to magnesium-containing reaction centers. This discovery enables a deeper understanding of photosynthesis structure, function, and evolution.
A study led by Akiko Hata of Tufts University School of Medicine found that the heart protein FHL2 regulates blood vessel maintenance. FHL2 inhibits the genes necessary for vascular smooth muscle cells to transition between a resting and proliferative state.
Two ancient genes in beetles were found to be co-opted for a new trait, challenging the idea that fundamental genes cannot acquire new functions. The study also suggests that developmental genes are candidates for recruitment and may not be as constraining as previously thought.
A study of 717 Medicare recipients found that older adults incorrectly reported having had a stroke, with lower sensitivity and specificity compared to MRI scans. Factors such as memory impairment, cognitive decline, and hypertension also contributed to false-negative reports.
Researchers have documented the first known migration of blue whales from California to British Columbia and the Gulf of Alaska since commercial whaling ended in 1965. The whales' return suggests a re-establishment of historical migration patterns, possibly driven by changes in ocean conditions.
LXRs play a protective role against Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection by boosting Th1 and Th17 immune responses. Treatment with LXR activators provides substantial protection from infections.
Researchers found that entomopathogenic fungus Beauveria bassiana is virulent against Triatoma infestans, the primary vector of Chagas disease. The fungus successfully killed over 50% of infected bugs in field assays, reducing bug populations and estimated parasite transmission risk.
Researchers have identified a key interaction between smallpox virus and human protein human nuclear factor kappa-B1, which inhibits inflammation pathways. This finding may reveal new strategies for developing treatments for smallpox and understanding the human immune system.
A new study from Saint Louis University found that taking DHEA supplements combined with vitamin D and calcium improves spinal bone density in older women. The treatment resulted in a 2-4% increase in bone density, which is comparable to other current therapies.
Researchers identified LXR proteins as a new target in the fight against tuberculosis, providing substantial protection against infection. Additionally, studies revealed that immune cells can destroy AAV-transduced liver cells through CTL recognition, suggesting a potential therapeutic intervention to improve gene therapy success.
Researchers have found drastic changes in sediment cores from river deltas worldwide, revealing past changes in nitrogen application, flooding, and hurricane events. The study highlights the importance of deltaic sediments as a 'history book' for understanding environmental changes, particularly in relation to climate change.
An international team of anthropologists discovered that more aggressive warriors among the Waorani have lower indices of reproductive success than less warlike men. The research contradicts previous findings on Yanomamo men, who were found to benefit from their aggressive behavior in terms of acquiring wives and children.
The University of Nottingham is receiving £6.9m in funding to develop carbon capture and storage (CCS) technologies that could drastically cut CO2 emissions from fossil-fuel power stations. The project aims to investigate combustion and CO2 capture and transport technologies to help meet UK and global emission reduction targets.
The study clarifies the chemical nature of the ISNT and its relationship to microbial growth. It finds that the test mainly detects bacterial amino sugars, suggesting this form of soil nitrogen is key to its effectiveness in predicting corn yield response.
The European Union has awarded $4 million to support the development of new antibiotics and vaccines against pneumococcal infections. Researchers from 13 international institutions are working together to combat this deadly disease, which claims over 60,000 lives annually in Germany alone.
A longitudinal study of children with severe traumatic brain injuries found that they experienced lasting problems with day-to-day functioning, including behavioral issues and cognitive deficits. A meta-analysis of previous studies also showed that problems persisted over time, especially for those with more severe injuries.
A large study led by Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center demonstrates that following the DASH diet significantly reduces women's risk of developing heart failure. The diet, high in plant foods and low in sugar and saturated fats, also lowers blood pressure.
Researchers found that increased O-GlcNAc levels damage blood vessels by reducing nitric oxide production, increasing blood pressure and vessel contraction. This discovery could lead to new treatments targeting the O-GlcNAc pathway.
A new analysis of 1,534 cancer studies found that 29% had apparent conflicts of interest, with biases often favoring industry funding. Studies with industry ties were more likely to focus on treatment and report survival advantages.
Researchers used magnetization transfer imaging to visualize alterations in cerebral architecture of Tourette's patients and found correlations with symptom severity. They identified changes in the frontal lobe that may be responsible for the syndrome's pathology.
A recent PLOS Medicine study examines the effects of electronic health records (EHRs) on medical education. Two groups of researchers present contrasting views: one arguing that EHRs may erode physician education due to potential risks, while another highlights opportunities for enhanced clinical skills and patient communication.
A pilot project led by RIT scientist aims to verify a model using geographic information systems technology to select optimal resting locations. The study focuses on Neotropical migrants and will inform the conservation of migratory bird species.
A team of biologists at the University of Texas at Austin has created a nearly complete collection of genes for a species of reef-building coral, revealing approximately 11,000 different genes. This genetic database will enable researchers to study natural variations in corals and their responses to stress, facilitating an explosion in...
A new study by New Zealand researchers found that regular face-to-face interaction with a supportive health professional is crucial for maintaining weight loss. Nurse-led programs with weekly or bi-weekly weigh-ins showed similar success rates to more expensive intensive programs.
The American Academy of Family Physicians highlights the US healthcare system's fragmentation as a major cause of the current crisis. Dr. Kurt Stange's seven-part series proposes solutions by focusing on primary care and integrative services to promote healing and efficiency.
Researchers found that a high-calorie exercise program involving daily long-distance walking resulted in greater fat mass loss and improved insulin sensitivity compared to standard cardiac rehabilitation. After five months, the high-calorie group showed significant improvements in heart risk factors and weight reduction.
Taking folic acid supplements for at least a year before conception reduces the risk of premature birth by 70% and 50%, according to a large cohort study. The findings suggest that folic acid supplementation may be an effective prevention method for premature birth.
Co-transplanting bone marrow stem cells with embryonic stem cells eliminates tumor formation in spinal cord injury (SCI) laboratory animals. The study suggests that BMSCs induce differentiation of undifferentiated ES cells into a neuronal lineage, resulting in suppression of tumor growth.
A new study suggests that frequent bursts of physical activity throughout the day can be just as beneficial to children's health as longer exercise sessions. The research found that short, moderate-intensity activities accumulated over a shorter period were associated with better health outcomes.
A new study published in the American Cancer Society found that people living in urban areas are more likely to develop late-stage cancer than those in suburban and rural areas. The research suggests a need for more effective urban-based cancer screening and awareness programs, particularly for vulnerable populations.
Researchers at UNC identified the p18 gene as a potential cause of luminal-type breast cancers, which account for 70-80% of all cases. The study found that defects in this gene lead to uncontrolled cell growth and cancer.
Two reports in Archives of Ophthalmology found that consuming omega-3 fatty acids from fish, nuts, and olive oil was associated with a lower risk of age-related macular degeneration. Eating one serving of fish per week reduced the risk by 31%, while consuming one to two servings of nuts lowered it by 35%.
The International Diabetes Federation is urging governments to focus on preventing and treating non-communicable diseases, including diabetes. Professor Silink emphasizes the need for action to address the growing economic burden of NCDs on healthcare systems and society.
Research shows a high correlation between low vitamin D levels and metabolic syndrome in older adults, who are more likely to have a vitamin D deficiency. Vitamin D deficiency is linked to an increased risk of having metabolic syndrome and related metabolic diseases.
Researchers developed a new method for transcriptome analysis using next-generation sequencing technology, enabling the discovery of protein-coding genes and genetic markers in corals. The study identified approximately 11,000 genes, over 30,000 markers of genetic variation, and novel candidate genes for stress-related processes.
A University of Oregon professor has developed a Green Classroom Toolbox to improve energy efficiency in existing US schools. The toolbox provides evidence-based renovation guidelines that consider both human performance and environmental impacts, aiming to enhance student learning.
A new approach based on mathematical theory of elliptic curves has emerged as a leading candidate for more efficient cryptography. Elliptic curve cryptography provides the same level of security as 1024-bit keys for RSA with smaller key sizes, making it computationally more efficient.
The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston's UT nanomedicine project will be tested in space as part of a nationwide competition. The experiment aims to study the diffusion of micro nanoparticles through tiny microchannels, which could aid in developing implantable devices for controlled drug release.
A new study finds that brain regions associated with complex problem-solving are highly active during daydreaming, challenging the long-held notion that these areas are dormant. This suggests that daydreaming may be an important cognitive state for unconsciously tackling important problems in life.
Out-patient clinics and offices can transmit antibiotic-resistant bacteria like MRSA, C.difficile, and vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus. Implementing infection control strategies such as hygiene, education, and careful prescribing of antibiotics can minimize transmission.
A group of students at North Carolina State University has developed a 'lunar texshield' to protect astronauts from space radiation while generating and storing power. The lightweight polymer material deflects or absorbs radiation, backed by layers of solar cells and radiation-absorbing materials.
A new study published in Archives of Internal Medicine finds that women with chest pain but no coronary artery disease are at an elevated risk for cardiovascular events such as heart attack or stroke. The study suggests that these patients require a different treatment regimen and highlights the need to reevaluate their risk assessment.
A study published in Environmental Microbiology reveals that cigarette smoke changes the DNA and membrane proteins of Porphyromonas gingivalis, a key bacterial cause of periodontitis. This adaptation affects the immune system's recognition of the pathogen, making smokers more susceptible to oral disease.
A study found an association between low cognitive function and early-age related macular degeneration in older adults. The research suggests that the two conditions share similar complex pathogenesis and risk factors, including hypertension and vascular changes.
The Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission satellite captured rainfall totals of over 900 mm in southern Luzon due to Tropical Storm Kujira and around 150 mm in northern Luzon from Typhoon Chan-hom. The TRMM-based Multi-satellite Precipitation Analysis system provides near-real-time data for monitoring global Tropics.
Boys with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy symptoms show signs for over a year before diagnosis and disease-specific treatment, highlighting the need for early detection and intervention. A simple and inexpensive blood test could accelerate this process, enabling timely treatment and improving outcomes.
A study conducted by researchers at Riley Hospital and Indiana University found that two-thirds of booster car seats were misused, putting children at risk. The misuse included errors in belt placement, leading parents to prioritize proper use and supervision.
The US Department of Energy has announced a $777 million initiative to fund 46 Energy Frontier Research Centers, including one at Caltech led by Harry Atwater. The center will focus on understanding light-material interactions for optimal solar energy conversion.
Researchers found that both swine flu subtypes cause respiratory symptoms and lung lesions in weanling pigs. H1N1-infected pigs developed more severe disease, with approximately a third of the lung affected.
A study published in Nature Neuroscience reveals how a single disrupted gene can cause Angelman syndrome, a form of severe mental retardation. The researchers found that brain cells in mice with the condition lacked ability to strengthen or weaken connections, but that sensory deprivation could recover plasticity.
A UNC-Duke study found that impaired brain plasticity in mice with Angelman syndrome is linked to severe cognitive deficits. The researchers discovered a latent ability for brain cells to express plasticity, which could lead to new treatments or a cure for the disorder.
A team of scientists has proposed six 'rules of thumb' to help save the world's imperiled coral reefs. The key to saving threatened coral ecosystems is maintaining links between reefs, allowing larvae to flow between them and re-stock depleted areas.
A comprehensive international study has identified eight previously unknown genes affecting blood pressure in healthy individuals. The study, involving 34,433 Europeans, mapped the human genome using hundreds of thousands of genetic markers and found associations with several genes regulating salt metabolism and smooth muscle signaling.
A team of researchers has identified three genes containing common mutations that are associated with altered kidney disease risk. The UMOD gene produces Tamm-Horsfall protein, which is normally present in healthy individuals' urine, but its relationship to chronic kidney disease risk was not known previously.
A Phase III trial found that adding casopitant mesylate to a conventional two-drug regimen significantly reduced chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting events. The study showed that 86% of patients achieved complete response with the new regimen compared to 66% with the placebo.
Researchers found that eliminating the gene for cyclophilin A from mice prevented the development of abdominal aortic aneurysm and atherosclerosis. The study suggests that targeting cyclophilin A could potentially address both conditions, which are linked by shared biochemical pathways.
A large-scale genome-wide association study identified eight key genes associated with high blood pressure, including ATP2B1, CACNB2, and CYP17A1. The research provides new insights into blood pressure regulation and may lead to the development of novel therapeutic approaches.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine identified common genetic changes associated with blood pressure and hypertension, including ATP2B1 and SH2B3. The study may lead to advances in hypertension therapy and the formation of early detection systems.