The Autism Consortium's fourth annual symposium brought together researchers, clinicians, and families to discuss the latest findings on the causes of autism. The symposium highlighted promising areas of research, including the role of chromosome 16p11.2 in susceptibility for autism spectrum disorders.
Researchers aim to develop low-cost devices that can monitor building energy consumption and provide suggestions for optimization. The project will use data from various residential buildings, including those operated by non-profits, to inform energy-saving decisions.
Keystone Symposia has received a three-year, $2.7 million grant from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation to support global health conferences and provide travel awards to scientists from developing countries. The funding will also enable the organization to expand its conference program with new topics and locations.
Researchers have successfully used a gene therapy technique to slow the onset of X-linked adrenoleukodystrophy, a severe brain disease, in two patients. The treatment involved introducing a therapeutic gene into blood cells using a lentiviral vector, which showed promise in slowing disease progression and improving neurological function.
Weill Cornell Medical College researchers aim to boost NAD+ levels after spinal cord injury, potentially preventing permanent nerve death. The study involves synthesizing a molecule that increases NAD+ production in cells, which may activate sirtuins and prevent cell death.
The study of the domestic horse's genome reveals remarkable similarities to humans, shedding light on key aspects of mammalian evolution. The analysis also provides a starting point for mapping disease genes in horses, potentially deepening knowledge of diseases in both species.
A study published in BioMed Central's Conflict and Health journal found that news reports on the Iraq conflict grossly underestimated civilian casualties. The researchers analyzed media coverage and found that US newspapers reported more Coalition fatalities than Iraqi civilians, while non-US newspapers showed a reversed pattern.
Researchers charted microbial communities across the human body, finding unique and diverse populations in different regions. The study suggests that personalized microbial communities vary widely from person to person and could hold key insights into human health.
Researchers have developed an optical biopsy technique that can detect breast cancer without invasive biopsies, reducing costs and complications. The new technology uses light and computing power to create images of the breast's interior, identifying telltale signs of cancer.
A recent study found that self-reported lactose intolerance affects only 12% of the population, contradicting previous estimates. The study suggests that lactose maldigestion may be overestimated and that dairy consumption can still provide essential nutrients for those who experience symptoms.
A Stanford study reveals that a gene linked to human longevity impacts the brain's ability to generate new neurons. Researchers found that mice without this gene had fewer neural stem cells and more rapidly churned out nerve cell precursors, leading to brain weight increases.
Spanish researchers found the last European hadrosaurs in the Iberian Peninsula, coexisting with evolved species and primitive members. The fossils, including a newly discovered lambeosaurine, suggest a connection between Asia and Europe during the Late Cretaceous period.
The ESA workshop explored the potential of space-based services to address Arctic challenges such as climate change, ocean traffic management, and environmental protection. Space assets can improve search and rescue operations, monitor sea ice and ocean changes, and facilitate sustainable development in the region.
Researchers at Rice University are developing a rapid saliva test for oral cancer that can be performed by a dentist in under 30 minutes. The test uses a novel microchip, known as a lab-on-a-chip, to detect specific biomarkers in cells, allowing for early diagnosis and improved patient outcomes.
A new national study reveals that having a teacher mentor can nearly double the odds of attending college for disadvantaged students, with a 50% greater likelihood overall. Mentors in the teaching profession played a pivotal role in bridging the college gap.
The Genome 10K Project aims to sequence the DNA of approximately one species per genus of living mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and fish. This will help reconstruct the genetic changes that gave rise to diverse life forms on Earth, with potential benefits for human and animal health, as well as conservation efforts.
The National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases has awarded approximately $208 million to two programs that support research on the human immune response to emerging and re-emerging infectious diseases. This funding aims to identify new vaccines and drug targets, with a focus on developing prevention tools and therapeutics.
A new report from gastroenterology/hepatology societies emphasizes the importance of competency-based curriculum and disease-specific training in improving patient outcomes. The report recommends changes to GI training programs, including pairing of GI/hepatology training and enhanced training in specific disease areas.
Dr. Jennifer Brodbelt receives $734,068 NIH grant to develop chip-based method for rapidly analyzing blood samples. The new approach could identify patterns correlated with aging and obesity.
Researchers at the University of Illinois have discovered a way to fine-tune the reduction potential of copper-containing proteins, enabling the creation of efficient water-soluble redox agents. This breakthrough allows for greater control over electron-transfer properties and extends the range of redox potentials.
A new study published in Biology Letters found that amputees who use running-specific prosthetic legs have no performance advantage over counterparts with biological legs. The researchers measured forces exerted on the ground and leg swing times, finding a 9% impairment in force production.
The University of Utah has celebrated the 'first light' of its new research telescope at 9,600 feet elevation on Frisco Peak. The 32-inch reflecting telescope took initial pictures on Oct. 15 and will be used for scientific observations starting next spring.
A tiny injector has been developed to speed up drug development by increasing the precision of protein and DNA injection into cells. This device achieves an 80% success rate in injecting Zebrafish embryos, enabling rapid preclinical trials and genetic engineering.
A two-year study found that pine needle mulch outperforms compost mulches in controlling weeds in highbush blueberry crops. The research team recommends continuing to topdress pine needles or similar mulches annually to maintain effectiveness.
Researchers have identified five common indoor plants that can effectively remove harmful VOCs from the air, reducing stress and symptoms of ill health. These plants, including purple waffle plant, English ivy, and Asparagus fern, have been shown to improve air quality and overall well-being.
Researchers found that manipulating light quality using photoselective films reduces plant height and conserves plant quality in poinsettias. The study suggests a viable alternative to chemical plant growth regulators for commercial growers, promoting sustainable production methods.
A recent survey of ISU horticulture graduates reveals that they are adequately to exceptionally well-prepared for the workforce. Employers rank personal skills such as communication, professionalism, and teamwork highly, while solid technical skills take a backseat.
Extended therapy for blood clot prevention yields greater benefits in hip/knee surgery, reducing venous thromboembolism events by three times. High incidence of VTE found in lung transplant recipients, with pulmonary fibrosis as a significant risk factor.
The symposium emphasizes the complex interaction of grape variety, viticulture, and soil to produce great wines. Experts will discuss factors such as soil surface color, drainage, and chemical composition to understand terroir, a term defined as vineyard site, soil, and climate.
Researchers at the University of Michigan have developed hybrid molecules that can regulate copper-induced amyloid-beta aggregation, disrupting clump formation and breaking up existing clumps. The new compounds also hold promise in treating Alzheimer's disease and may be able to cross the blood-brain barrier.
The K-State team is developing tools that can predict the consequences of water policy decisions on communities. The interdisciplinary study examines how changes in policy and water use practices affect everything from land use practices to population shifts.
A study of 2,477 people with MS found that those who experienced relapses within five years of onset had a higher risk of needing a cane for walking. However, the impact of these early relapses diminished over time. The study suggests that younger people with MS may benefit from timely treatment to change the course of progression.
A new weight control method called Health-At-Every-Size (HAES) has been found to be effective in reducing certain eating behaviors. HAES focuses on a healthy lifestyle rather than weight loss, with an emphasis on size acceptance and non-dieting.
Penn researchers identify a novel cellular source of atrial fibrillation, the most common type of abnormal heart beat, and suggest a more precise way to treat AF with reduced side effects.
A $3.45 million project is studying how bacteria degrade RDX and determining its potential for bioremediation. Bacteria like Rhodococcus and Gordonia have evolved to thrive on the contaminants left behind by high-energy compounds.
A team of ecologists highlights the importance of combining environmental conditions with climate models to predict species distribution. Paleoecological studies show that past climate variability has affected tree species distributions, and future changes in climate variability need to be considered when predicting species responses.
A new USC study estimates that heavy traffic corridors in Long Beach and Riverside contribute significantly to childhood asthma cases, with 9% of cases in Long Beach and 6% in Riverside linked to air pollution. Ship emissions from the Los Angeles-Long Beach port complex also exacerbate asthma symptoms.
Researchers have developed a less-expensive method to measure carotenoids in pumpkins and squash, which are rich in antioxidants. The study found strong correlations between colorimetric values and carotenoid content, enabling breeders to create new varieties with improved nutritional value.
The energy gap concept estimates the change in energy balance required to achieve and sustain reduced body weight outcomes. Researchers suggest that small changes of 100 kcal/day can prevent weight regain in most adults, but larger gaps of 200-300 kcal/day are needed for maintenance.
A new study found that postmenopausal women with higher testosterone levels are three times as likely to have coronary heart disease and the metabolic syndrome compared to those with lower testosterone levels. Insulin resistance is also more common in these women.
A shortened, more intensive course of radiation therapy has been shown to be as effective as traditional treatments for early-stage breast cancers, with no significant side effects. This accelerated hypofractionated whole breast irradiation option is more time-efficient and cost-effective.
Scientists studied primate finger ratios, finding a link between high prenatal androgen exposure and competitive social behavior. Great Apes showed lower androgen levels, which may explain their cooperative behavior and tolerance of males.
Researchers found that yoga significantly reduced pain intensity and pain medication use in minority populations with chronic low back pain. The study, which included 12 weeks of hatha yoga classes, showed promising results for this often underrepresented population.
A clinical study found that cutting back on processed and fried foods, high in AGEs, reduces inflammation and restores natural defenses. The 'AGE-less diet' reduced blood AGE levels and improved biomarkers of vascular function by 60%, even in people with kidney disease.
Research reveals that broccoli contains abundant levels of the carotenoid lutein, an antioxidant linked to improved eye health and reduced risk of cancer. Lutein levels are influenced by genetics, not environment, making it a promising target for breeding programs aimed at producing higher-lutein broccoli varieties.
The Journal of Dairy Science, the official journal of the American Dairy Science Association, has been selected as a new publisher by Elsevier. With an Impact Factor of 2.486 and 5-year Impact Factor of 2.978, it ranks first in agriculture, dairy and animal science category.
Scientists confirm ultra-thin coating of carbon on neutron star using Chandra's X-ray spectrum and theoretical models. The discovery resolves a ten-year mystery surrounding the object, explaining its lack of pulsations.
Most central US small earthquakes are aftershocks of magnitude 7 New Madrid quakes in 1811 and 1812. Aftershocks continue due to slow fault movement, unlike faster-moving faults like San Andreas.
Researchers at the Genome Institute of Singapore have made a significant breakthrough in understanding gene expression and regulation by developing a novel technology called ChIA-PET, which successfully mapped long-range chromatin interactions throughout the human genome.
A team of researchers has identified a promising drug candidate for treating spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), a genetic disease that affects approximately 1 in 6,000 babies born in the US. The tetracycline-like compound boosts SMN protein levels by fixing an RNA splicing error, resulting in increased functional protein production.
A recent study by the University of Cincinnati reveals that relationship with father plays a significant role in adult family responsibilities among homeless veterans. The research found that those with high father involvement reported more nurturing and supportive parenting styles.
A study of floral consumption values reveals that consumers prioritize emotional conditioning and sensory hedonics in flower purchases. Heavy users of flowers are more likely to be emotionally stimulated and seek product variety, presenting a marketing challenge for retailers.
A recent study published in The Endocrine Society's Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism found that eating quickly can lead to overeating by curbing the release of hormones that signal fullness. Researchers discovered that subjects who took their time consuming a meal had higher concentrations of appetite-regulating hormones,...
Curcumin, found in turmeric, shows promise in treating colon cancer, psoriasis, and Alzheimer's. The nano-size capsule boosts curcumin absorption, increasing antioxidant levels in the blood.
Researchers found that increased ambient particulate matter levels are associated with increased ER visits for respiratory illness, while a new lung age formula more accurately calculates a smoker's 'lung age.' Pulmonary rehabilitation programs also showed higher abstinence rates among smokers with COPD.
Researchers have uncovered a complex heteromeric structure of the essential enzyme PPCDC in yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae, composed of non-identical proteins. The discovery sheds new light on CoA biosynthesis and presents potential targets for antifungal therapy.
Scientists at UNC and UCSF developed a computational method to compare drug structures with naturally occurring ligands, predicting potential new uses and unexpected side effects of approved drugs. The approach has been validated in wet laboratory experiments.
Studies reveal an increasing number of ICU patients discharged home, while tele-ICUs reduce carbon footprint and costs. Excessive propofol use may lead to high omega-6 exposure, posing safety concerns. Abnormal sleep habits among ICU nurses may increase errors, but remote teleintensivist programs improve hospital mortality.
A new therapeutic approach targets proliferation of cancer cells without affecting normal cells, showing promise for selective eradication of human cancers. Researchers developed a phenanthridine derived polyADP-ribose polymerase (PARP) inhibitor that efficiently kills breast cancer cells while leaving healthy cells untouched.
Researchers at Fox Chase Cancer Center found that radiation therapy for women with early-stage breast cancer can be shortened from six to seven weeks to four weeks using intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT). The study showed acceptable side effects and similar cure rates and cosmetic results as traditional treatment.