Researchers use insects like fruit flies and moths to test new drugs, reducing animal testing by up to 90% and speeding up results. The study finds that insect immune cells are structurally and functionally similar to those in mammals, offering a promising alternative for drug development.
A new genomic model defines microorganisms by their dietary habits, providing a tool for tracking environmental changes. The researchers analyzed the genomes of two bacteria with distinct lifestyles and developed a predictive model that successfully identified the habitats of dozens of bacterial samples.
Researchers used mixed consortia of bacteria to degrade naphthenic acids, a type of toxic compound found in crude oil and tar sands. The microbes broke down the compounds in just a few days, reducing environmental pollution from these areas.
Researchers discovered genetic differences between two ocean bacteria, one thriving in nutrient-rich waters and the other in poor-nutrient waters, reflecting their distinct lifestyles.
Wind energy could account for 30% of Spain's overall energy production by 2030, according to a study. The proposal also suggests a mix of solar energy and gas turbines to achieve this goal, while reducing carbon emissions. Additionally, the sector has generated 226% more jobs in the European Union since 2003.
Research in nanoscience and nanotechnology found to be highly interdisciplinary, drawing on multiple areas of science and technology. The study analyzed over 30,000 papers with 'nano' themes, revealing diverse contributions from fields like clinical medicine, biomedical sciences, and physics.
A study has found that XMRV retrovirus is present in 27% of prostate cancers, associated with more aggressive tumors. The viral proteins were predominantly found in malignant prostatic cells, suggesting a direct link between XMRV infection and tumor formation.
A study tracked genetic mutations in a roundworm over 5,000 years, finding that oxidative DNA damage is a primary cause of mutations. The research also showed that natural selection affects previously thought-to-be 'junk' DNA, suggesting new biological roles.
Researchers at Columbia University Irving Medical Center have identified an area of the brain involved in the earliest stages of schizophrenia. Activity in this region, known as the CA1 subfield, may help predict disease progression and provide opportunities for more targeted drug development to block the mechanism.
Researchers at the University of Illinois have designed a small molecule that blocks an aberrant pathway associated with myotonic dystrophy type 1. The new compound, Ligand 1, binds tightly to its target, preventing the MBNL protein from binding to RNA and easing symptoms of the disease.
Researchers have identified versatile cells in liposuction leftovers that can be quickly converted into induced pluripotent stem cells (iPS cells), potentially revolutionizing regenerative medicine. The study shows a 20-fold improvement in efficiency compared to skin cells, which are more challenging to reprogram.
Researchers have designed probiotics that can bind toxins in the gut, preventing them from interacting with host intestinal cells. These receptor-mimic probiotics offer a promising treatment for diseases such as cholera and traveller's diarrhoea, and may also be used to prevent outbreaks following natural disasters.
The DFG has established five new Clinical Research Units to study highly topical medical issues such as bowel cancer metastases and hormone-related obesity. The units aim to develop individual forms of treatment for conditions like glomerulonephritis and improve diagnostic strategies,
A new report reveals that aquaculture accounts for 50% of global fish consumption, driven by demand for omega-3 fatty acids. This strain on marine resources can be mitigated by reducing fish oil in farmed fish diets and developing alternative feedstuffs.
Researchers found that poverty alone does not define an individual's overall well-being and that many qualities and attributes need to be considered when designing social programs. Only 24% of people classified as 'poor' reported low life satisfaction, while 18% of those not considered 'poor' also experienced low life satisfaction.
A prevention system implemented in seven states has significantly reduced rates of teen binge drinking, with a notable drop of 37% among eighth-grade students. The system also led to lower levels of alcohol and smokeless tobacco use and fewer delinquent behaviors.
Researchers have identified a three-pronged mechanism of the human immune system attacking fungal yeast cells, including recognition of specific cell wall components and glucan targets. Understanding these interactions could lead to effective immunotherapy and new treatments for patients with weakened immunity.
A breakthrough discovery identifies a new gene called Insulin Receptor Substrate 1 (IRS1) that affects how the body responds to insulin, leading to insulin resistance. The study found a single-nucleotide polymorphism in the IRS1 gene that reduces its activity by 40%, making it harder for insulin to work effectively.
Scientists have recovered uranium from polluted waters using bacteria and inositol phosphate, a cheap waste material. The process is economically viable, especially as the world price of uranium is likely to increase, offering an environmental protection benefit.
Scientists have discovered a genetic variation that impairs the body's muscle cells ability to use insulin effectively, leading to insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes. The study highlights a potential new target for scientists developing treatments for this disease.
A harmless shard from a childhood virus's shell may halt the complement response, a primordial part of the immune system that kills oxygen-deprived victims. This discovery could help save soldiers' lives and reduce brain damage caused by reperfusion injury.
Researchers have discovered a strain of bacteria with pilin proteins that can conduct electricity, leading to increased power output in microbial fuel cells. This breakthrough could enable the use of microbial fuel cells in remote environments and monitoring devices, such as ocean floor sensors, to convert waste into electricity.
UCSF researchers have successfully restored the missing protein calpain degrades LIS1 protein to near-normal levels in mice with the mouse-model of this defect. The team gave daily injections of a calpain inhibitor to pregnant mice whose fetuses had the mouse-model, resulting in more normal brains and no sign of mental retardation.
Researchers have identified novel bacterial strains capable of breaking down microcystins, a toxin produced by blue-green algae. These bacteria can be used to create a reliable and cost-effective purification system for removing microcystins from contaminated water.
Manuka honey kills MRSA by destroying key bacterial proteins, including FabI essential for fatty acid biosynthesis. The study suggests manuka honey could be used as a first-line treatment for resistant bacteria infections.
Research uses bacteria to produce biofilm layers containing biopolymers that act as strong adhesives, resulting in better mechanical strength and surface coverage. The biocoating method could lead to improved bone implant materials with enhanced properties.
British scientists have discovered two new genes associated with Alzheimer's disease, CLU and PICALM. These findings provide valuable new leads in the race to find treatments and possibly cures for the common form of Alzheimer's disease.
A team of international scientists has identified two more genetic risk factors for Alzheimer's disease, which appear to be involved in elevated risk and confirmed the importance of APOE4. The new genes, APOJ and PICALM, are linked to smaller but still significant effects on Alzheimer's disease risk.
A team of researchers has identified a molecular signature that can predict which patients with aggressive cancers, such as pancreatic and breast cancer, are likely to respond to therapy with the anti-cancer drug dasatinib. The discovery could lead to personalized treatment approaches for solid tumors currently resistant to therapies.
A $1.1 million grant from CIHR will support John MacDonald's research on preventing nerve cell death in Alzheimer's and stroke. The study aims to develop a peptide that can prevent toxic interactions between ion channels, which may lead to breakthroughs in treatment.
Researchers at Columbia University Medical Center found that a cancer drug can restore memory deficits in patients with Alzheimer's disease by targeting a previously unknown defect in the brain. The drug works by increasing DNA spool acetylation and gene transcription, leading to improved memory performance.
Researchers at the University of British Columbia have developed a system that turns harmless bacterium Caulobacter crescentus into a protein production factory, making useful proteins for vaccines and therapeutic purposes. The technology could be used to manufacture HIV-blocking agents cheaply and with minimal expertise.
The 2009 BERA/SAGE Practitioner Research Awards honored Lindsey Thomas and teams for innovative projects, including a virtual learning environment for poetry and academic induction guidelines. Winners receive £500 prize money and SAGE books, promoting high-quality research in education.
A study found that 50% of families with a genetic risk of bowel cancer declined genetic testing due to fear of insurance rejection. Researchers urge the Australian government and insurance industry to reconsider their stance on genetic information, which can reduce morbidity and mortality.
Researchers at the University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center have identified four microRNAs that can accurately detect pancreatic cancer and pre-invasive lesions. The study found that these microRNAs are overexpressed in precursor lesions leading to full-blown pancreatic cancer, offering a promising approach for early detection.
Researchers found chimpanzees using multiple tool sets to forage for army ants, with a focus on two types of tools: ant-dipping probes and nest perforating tools. The study suggests that these tool kits may be the first direct evidence of sustainable food harvesting in this context.
The Biophysical Society has named eight award recipients for their groundbreaking work in biophysics. The winners include Tom Rapoport, James Hamilton, and S. Walter Englander, who will receive prestigious awards for their contributions to fields such as protein transport, lipid biology, and single molecule biology.
The study reveals that a specific protein, srGAP2, plays a crucial role in controlling the migration and branching of neurons during brain development. By manipulating this protein's activity, researchers were able to observe its effects on filopodia formation and neuronal behavior.
A new study reveals that the absence of angiotensin II receptors in the uteri of pregnant women with preeclampsia contributes to the disease's progression. This finding brings researchers closer to understanding the condition and may lead to new treatments.
The five-year grant will investigate the effect of instructional coaches on elementary school math education and identify what coaches need to know about math and coaching. The researchers will train 60 coaches, analyze data, and gather feedback from classrooms in multiple states.
A study analyzing bird persecution in Spain over 14 years reveals a significant decline in direct attacks on wildlife. The drop in hunting activities and increased awareness among urban populations have led to an end in the 'war' against wildlife in southern Europe.
American mayapple, a common weed in US, contains high podophyllotoxin levels, offering potential for commercial production of anti-cancer compound. Researchers identify eastern US colonies with high podophyllotoxin content, paving the way for development of high-value crop.
The Together Anywhere project aims to simplify group communication via the Internet, creating a sense of presence among distant participants. The Fraunhofer Institute's Audio Communication Engine enhances video and telephone conference call quality with low-delay hi-fi audio.
Researchers at Fraunhofer Institute for Digital Media Technology IDMT created ultra-flat loudspeakers with resonant properties, enabling improved sound quality. The new design allows for integration into surroundings without sacrificing audio quality.
LSU has been awarded a grant to establish a Superfund Research Center, exploring the health effects of toxic combustion products and their potential impact on public health. The center will investigate the role of combustion-related nanoparticles in determining their special properties and harmful effects.
Astronomers, including Queen's University physicist Larry Widrow, have discovered a nearby cosmic encounter between the Andromeda and Triangulum galaxies, which collided about two to three billion years ago. The collision caused millions of stars to be ripped from the Triangulum disk, forming a faint stream visible in the PAndAS data.
Scientists at VCU School of Medicine have identified a new lipid mediator that regulates genes, a discovery that could lead to the development of drugs to fight cancer and inflammatory diseases. The study found that S1P acts like a histone deacetylase inhibitor, regulating gene expression in the cell nucleus.
The global e-waste problem requires harmonization of disposal and recycling standards across national borders to effectively address the issue. The use of outdated electronic devices poses significant risks to human health and the environment, with 20-50 million tonnes of e-waste generated annually.
A study found that perennial vegetation cover can indicate desertification processes in semi-arid esparto fields, with a positive correlation between total vegetation cover and soil fertility. This early warning system has potential for management and restoration measures before ecosystem degradation becomes irreversible.
The OpenRide mobile ridesharing service uses intelligent route matching to connect drivers with passengers in real-time, providing a convenient solution for last-minute journeys. The system's use of open interfaces enables integration with additional partners, expanding its potential market reach.
Researchers at the University of Toronto have identified a protein called nSR100 that controls alternative splicing events in genes critical to nervous system formation. This discovery could provide new insights into brain complexity and neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's.
Mercyhurst College has received a $72,650 NSF grant to purchase an infrared imaging system to advance research on pathogenic bacteria in beach water samples. The new equipment will enable scientists to detect proteins at low levels, refining their investigation of beach water quality and informing recreational swimmers.
Duke University researchers create a mouse model to study tumor diversity, enabling rapid trial studies and more effective cancer treatment. The study examines genetic pathways and sensitivity to drugs, shedding light on the importance of matching therapies with individual patient characteristics.
Biomarker levels strongly predict bypass surgery outcome and identify patients at risk of complications. Current diagnostic standards may need reconsideration due to low sensitivity.
The Migraine Research Foundation has awarded $300,000 in research grants to investigate the genetic association between migraine and cardiovascular events. The grant recipients will also explore the impact of opioids on migraine pain.
Researchers have published genetic sequences, known as 'DNA barcodes,' to identify species of origin from leather products and meat in international trade. The study, led by the American Museum of Natural History, identifies 25 commonly traded mammals and reptiles, including duikers, Nile crocodiles, and alligators.
A new cotton variety engineered to reduce toxic gossypol in seeds shows promising results, meeting WHO and FDA standards for human consumption. The crop could provide a sustainable protein source for millions of malnourished people worldwide.
A Syracuse University research team discovered a second molecular switch within the Mixed Lineage Leukemia protein complex, which could be exploited to prevent abnormal cell production. The W-RAD switching mechanism signals cells to create multiple copies of cancer cells.
Chronic insomnia increases nighttime blood pressure, leading to cardiovascular risks and heart damage. Researchers found heightened blood pressure in insomniacs, particularly those with overt cardiac disease.
A Canadian report reveals that nearly a million students will fail to graduate high school due to poor reading skills. The study highlights the importance of literacy education and calls for increased support in junior and senior high schools.