Researchers at Johns Hopkins School of Medicine discovered that the antioxidant protein Prdx1 controls the activity of GDE2, a critical protein for spinal cord neuron development. The study found that Prdx1 breaks a chemical bond between amino acids in GDE2, activating it to promote motor neuron differentiation.
Interaction between education and a polymorphism of the reward gene contribute to severe alcoholism among Mexican Americans. Researchers found that individuals with less than or up to 12 years of education are at high risk for severe alcoholism when combined with the OPRM1 A/A genotype.
A new study found that completed and attempted suicides occur at greater rates in rural communities with higher bar densities. Completed suicide rates were lower among blacks and Hispanics, but higher among low-income, older whites living in rural areas.
Research found that IL-1 gene polymorphisms are associated with alcohol dependence in Spanish Caucasian males, particularly those with a certain haplotype. The study suggests a protective effect of this haplotype on better outcomes, highlighting the complex role of genetic factors in AD.
Tropical Storm Marty is moving at a slow pace through the Eastern Pacific Ocean with maximum sustained winds near 40 mph. The storm's fate lies in its encounter with cooler waters and drier air, which will weaken it over the weekend.
A new study found that people who start drinking at an early age are more likely to develop alcohol dependence. The study suggests that genetic factors play a significant role in the development of AD symptoms, particularly in those who begin drinking before age 15.
A team of researchers developed an intelligent surveillance system to detect incorrect behavior by drivers and pedestrians crossing pedestrian crossings. The system, based on multi-agent artificial intelligence, can identify abnormal movements and potentially penalize such behaviors.
A team of Princeton and Rice University researchers has developed a new method to identify nitric oxide using lasers and sensors, making it possible for large-scale deployment. The device can detect tiny amounts of the gas in the air or human breath, monitoring pollution and detecting disease such as asthma.
Scientists have created an implantable device that utilizes magnetism to control the release of medication, allowing for precise and repeatable dosing. The device uses nanoparticles that heat up when exposed to a magnetic field, causing the drug to be released into the body.
Postmenopausal women can improve cardiovascular fitness and reduce risk factors for chronic diseases through regular, vigorous exercise. Studies show that even less strenuous aerobic exercise produces benefits, and women's metabolism changes after menopause affect glucose clearance from the blood.
Typhoon Choi-Wan is expected to bring hurricane-force winds and flooding rains to Japan this weekend. The storm's high thunderstorms have reached the tropopause, resulting in extremely heavy rainfall for the area underneath.
Researchers in Australia have developed the first efficient diamond Raman laser, achieving an efficiency of 63.5%, comparable to existing lasers built with other materials. This technology has potential applications in defense technologies, trace gas detectors, medical devices, and satellite mapping.
Researchers found that HIV can mutate its outer proteins to disguise itself from neutralizing antibodies, allowing it to escape the immune system. In two patients, viruses mutated parts of their outer proteins, interfering with antibody attack or targeting a different protein.
A new drug-delivery system using nanoparticles encapsulating nitric oxide or prescription drugs could significantly lessen side effects associated with oral erectile dysfunction medications. The treatment showed improved erectile function in rats and held promise for safer and more effective ED therapy for millions of men.
Researchers at K-State will use a cyber network to study the tallgrass prairie and respond to global warming. The project aims to integrate data from Konza Prairie and other regional institutions to improve ecological forecasting and education.
Researchers found that elephants use two pathways to 'hear' ground-borne vocalizations: somatosensory pathway through feet and trunks, and bone conduction pathway through toenails. This allows them to understand seismic communication over long distances.
A recent study by University of California, Davis, researchers used 'bugs in boxes' to investigate the variability of invasive species' spread. The results suggest that predicting the course of an invasion may be more challenging than previously thought.
Mathematicians at the University of Leeds propose that black holes are directly responsible for producing gamma ray bursts, contradicting the orthodox model. The theory suggests that rotating black holes can devour nearby stars, creating long-lasting jets of plasma that produce the high-energy radiation.
The new program in international research ethics at IUPUI combines coursework and a practicum experience in Kenya to equip students with expertise in bioethics. The IU-Moi Academic Research Ethics Partnership aims to build valuable bioethics capacity globally, starting with partnerships in Kenya.
A recent Editorial in The Lancet emphasizes the connection between family planning, climate change, and women's health. Implementing contraception can help reduce unintended pregnancies and slow population growth, thereby alleviating demographic pressure on the environment.
Scientists create induced pluripotent stem cells from human neural stem cells using a footprint-free methodology, retaining some gene expression of the original donor cells. The study reveals that these cells maintain a 'transcriptional signature' similar to human embryonic stem cells.
Scientists have cracked the code of insect flight, revealing complex wing designs that defy conventional aerodynamics. By studying locusts and developing a computer model, researchers gained insights into wing deformation and its impact on flight efficiency.
A study published by the American Society of Nephrology found that weight loss through diet and exercise can reduce proteinuria and slow down kidney function decline in obese patients with kidney disease. Surgical interventions also show promise in normalizing kidney filtration rates.
A team of scientists used cameras to capture fireballs streaking across the night sky, calculating its orbit and asteroid origin. The rare achondrite meteorite is from the inner asteroid belt, providing valuable insights into the solar system's evolution.
A recent study published in BMC Emergency Medicine found that 60% of unintended incidents in the emergency department are caused by human failures. The majority of these events were attributed to departments outside the emergency department, such as laboratories.
Improving toilets and hand hygiene can reduce tropical enteropathy and lead to substantial decreases in stunting among children. Dr Jean Humphrey hypothesises that preventing faecal-oral transmission by providing safe disposal of stools and promoting handwashing with soap can normalise child growth.
The MSD Wellcome Trust Hilleman Laboratories aims to develop new vaccines to prevent diseases affecting low-income countries. The not-for-profit joint venture will work on optimizing existing vaccines and developing new ones, with the goal of increasing vaccine impact in resource-limited settings.
A new study by University of Pennsylvania researchers found that common biological processes like insulin metabolism influence the body's daily clock, reversing previous assumptions about one-way communication. The findings suggest potential new treatments for metabolic disorders tied to circadian cycles.
Researchers used high-resolution spectrograph to reveal unexpected tilt of up to 70 degrees from vertical in binary star DI Herculis. The discovery resolves longstanding mystery and sheds light on formation and evolution of binary stars, with implications for Einstein's theory of relativity.
The Baumann Lab has identified a key protein role in distinguishing chromosome ends from DNA breaks, preventing genomic instability and cancer. RAP1 plays a critical role in cancer prevention and may be linked to age-related diseases.
A study published in Journal of Cancer Survivorship reveals that chemotherapy-induced cognitive impairment, known as chemobrain, significantly diminishes women's quality of life. Women experience memory loss, difficulty concentrating, and reduced independence, affecting their work and social lives.
The American Society of Human Genetics presents the 2009 William Allan Award to Dr. Huntington F. Willard for his seminal findings in understanding chromosome structure and behavior. Willard's work has been instrumental in advancing human genetics, with a focus on X chromosome inactivation and centromeres.
Researchers found that male juvenile delinquents often misinterpret facial expressions of disgust as anger, leading to a more intense emotional response and aggressive behavior. This bias towards misrecognizing others' emotions could result in delinquents perceiving situations as hostile.
A new species of tyrannosauroid dinosaur, Raptorex kriegsteini, has been discovered in China that predates the Tyrannosaurus rex by tens of millions of years. The fossil, which is only three meters long, exhibits the same physical traits as T. rex, including an oversized skull and powerful jaws.
University of Wisconsin-Madison researchers have developed a computational model that optimizes fuel cell catalysts by increasing particle size, reducing degradation and extending the lifespan of fuel cells. This breakthrough could lead to more efficient and cost-effective fuel cells for widespread use.
A new study found that extending preventive treatment for CMV infection post-kidney transplant reduces the risk of disease by nearly two-thirds. This approach also proves cost-effective, offsetting increased costs with reduced cases of CMV disease.
A new study from North Carolina State University found that the Bush administration's 'investment frame' strategy increased support for the Iraq War among supporters, but decreased tolerance among opponents. The study used a nationally representative sample to gauge public opinion in September 2006.
A new study has found that genes regulating insulin also alter the timing of the circadian clock, suggesting novel therapies for metabolic disease. Hundreds of genes were identified as affecting the clock's timing, with seven genes involved in insulin control also influencing its rhythms.
A German company developed a method to turn red wine by-products into a powder preserving natural nutrients like protein, B vitamins and polyphenols. The powder has been successfully tested in various products, including yoghurt drinks, ice-cream and skin creams.
Researchers analyzed data from hundreds of published articles to test the triage theory, which suggests optimal intake levels for individual vitamins and minerals. The study found modest vitamin/mineral deficiencies are common and may contribute to age-related conditions.
A new study shows that anemic patients with myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) can gain long-term benefits from erythropoietin and a myeloid growth factor, with improved survival rates and overall quality of life compared to those receiving supportive care alone.
By applying strain to single-crystal vanadium oxide micro- and nanowires, researchers created phase inhomogeneity, a phenomenon critical to collective electronic behavior of correlated electron materials. This breakthrough could lead to designing and controlling phase inhomogeneity for future devices.
Operation Reboot pairs IT professionals with existing computing teachers to co-teach and gain teaching experience. Over three years, the initiative aims to increase computing education for 4,600 students by 30%.
Researchers found that pediatric strokes are significantly under-counted using traditional methods based on diagnostic codes, with a rate of 2.4 cases per 100,000 person-years. The study suggests that more prospective studies are needed to accurately capture the incidence and cost of pediatric stroke.
A new mass spectrometry-based tool has been developed by University of Cincinnati experts, providing more precise and cost-effective data collection for drug discovery efforts. The novel application eliminates false-positive results and reduces reagent costs, saving substantial time and money.
Researchers aim to reduce isolation and depression among seniors by training them to use the Internet and social media. The study also focuses on increasing access to health information, making it easier for older adults to stay healthy.
Scientists have found that the number of sunspots provides an incomplete measure of changes in the Sun's impact on Earth over the course of the 11-year solar cycle. High-speed streams of wind from the Sun intensify the energy of Earth's outer radiation belt, posing hazards to satellites and space travelers.
A team of scientists led by U of C grad Casey Hubert detected high numbers of thermophilic bacteria in subzero sediments in the Arctic Ocean. The bacteria may provide a unique opportunity to trace seepages of fluids from hot sub-seafloor habitats and potentially point towards undiscovered offshore petroleum reservoirs.
Marine renewable energy devices can boost local biodiversity and benefit marine environments by attracting marine organisms to man-made structures, creating 'artificial reefs'. However, such devices also pose negative environmental impacts from habitat loss, collision risks, noise, and electromagnetic fields.
The TRMM satellite captured heavy rainfall rates of up to 2 inches per hour in the center of the storm. Rainfall images are false-colored with yellow, green and red areas indicating rainfall between .78 to 1.57 inches per hour.
Researchers at Hebrew University of Jerusalem discover Lysyl-tRNA synthetase's regulatory role in gene expression, potentially leading to new therapies for diseases like AIDS and breast cancer. The molecule is also involved in viral replication and high levels have been observed in certain cancers.
A new Tel Aviv University drug carrier delivers existing life-saving therapies directly to cancer tumors, reversing growth and inhibiting tumor growth by 50%. The innovative formulation targets tumors without affecting normal healthy cells, offering a potential solution for various forms of cancers and diseases.
Dr. John Bannister Goodenough, a pioneer in lithium-ion batteries, and Dr. Siegfried S. Hecker, a leading expert on plutonium metallurgy, are recognized for their groundbreaking work in materials science and nuclear energy. They will share the Enrico Fermi Award, a prestigious US Government honor.
A study by Alan Krueger and Jitka Malečková found that negative public opinion toward a country's leadership and policies is associated with an increased likelihood of terrorist acts. The research analyzed data from 143 pairs of countries and linked opinions to terrorist attacks between 2004 and 2008.
UAB researchers discover that genetic mutations cause proteins to separate, leading to malfunctions and toxic aggregates. This finding could explain the onset of various genetic diseases, including conformational disorders.
The Planck space telescope has returned its first images of the sky, mapping tiny differences in microwave radiation left over from the Big Bang. This improved data will allow scientists to better understand the structure of the universe when it was about 400,000 years old and test theories about cosmic inflation.
Chronic pain affects 80% of those living with it, and up to 10% gain access to effective treatments; a national strategy is long overdue to address the issue's significant economic and personal burden.
Researchers created a comprehensive model of the bacterium's central metabolic network, including protein structures and interactions. The study reveals essential protein shapes and connections to unique metabolites.
Researchers at Kansas State University have developed a microstructured semiconductor neutron detector, receiving an R¼D 100 Award for its innovative technology. The device has thousands of tiny perforations that detect neutrons and can be used for various applications.
Researchers aim to understand mechanisms by which the thymus shuts down, affecting immune system function during aging. The goal is to find ways to turn the organ's function back on to fight disease or aging, potentially leading to longer and healthier lives.