New gene transfer agents have been developed to overcome the limitations of viral vectors and chemical agents, showing promise for treating hereditary diseases and cancer. The agents are more effective at delivering DNA into cell nuclei, increasing the chances of successful treatment.
The National Science Foundation has awarded a $360,000 grant to establish an online resource for biochemistry and molecular biology educators. The initiative aims to improve undergraduate-level teaching by providing core concepts, assessments, and forums. Hundreds of life scientists will collaborate on the project.
Researchers have identified hydrophobic proteins as potential biomarkers for colorectal cancer detection. The study used two-dimensional gel electrophoresis and mass spectrometry to analyze protein profiles from colorectal cancer tissues, revealing differentially expressed proteins related to tumor stages, grades, and patient gender.
Liver transplant patients receiving cyclosporine for immunosuppression are at higher risk of developing de novo cancer, particularly those transplanted in recent years and younger than 50. The study found a significant association between C2 monitoring and increased early de novo cancer risk.
Researchers developed a new radiotracer, florbetapir F18, to distinguish between Alzheimer's disease patients and healthy volunteers on brain scans. The compound has a longer half-life than previous options, allowing for more widespread use and potential applications in diagnosing dementia and tracking disease progression.
A study found that standard CRP tests are not informative enough for pediatric IBD patients, while hs-CRP detects low levels of CRP and correlates with ileal inflammation. However, hs-CRP did not help distinguish between active intestinal inflammation and quiescent disease or response to treatment.
Researchers recommend using water conservatively and developing ways to harness energy from the sun, wind, and Earth to cope with projected climate changes in the West and Southwest. The region is expected to experience widespread drought, wildfires, and decreasing snowpack.
Researchers have discovered that tiny smectitic clay coatings on the rock surfaces of the San Andreas fault reduce friction and facilitate creeping motion. This coating, less than 100 nanometers thick, acts as a lubricant, allowing the fault to move slowly and steadily over time.
A study by Chi Wai Chan reveals that information technology enhances the earnings of highly-educated workers, particularly men. However, it widens the gap between those with and without technological skills, negatively impacting unskilled laborers.
A CXCR4 antagonist, AMD3100, decreases epithelial apoptosis and gut permeability in experimental colitis, enhancing epithelial barrier function. This study suggests a pivotal role of the CXCL12/CXCR4 chemokine axis in ulcerative colitis pathogenesis.
A new diabetes drug, dapagliflozin, has been shown to improve blood sugar control in patients who have inadequate control with metformin. The drug acts independently of insulin, promotes excretion of glucose in the urine, and is associated with weight loss and low risk of hypoglycaemia.
A Stanford study uses high-powered genomic analytical techniques to establish the coexistence of 1,000 single-celled species in every healthy human gut. By manipulating microbial populations through dietary interventions, scientists aim to remedify diseases and enhance health.
Scientists studying the Venus Express mission have found that Venus likely had oceans billions of years ago, but they were likely atmospheric and short-lived. The loss of water into space has left the planet's surface dry today.
Researchers at Salk Institute and Duke University have identified a new gene, HEMERA, that plays a crucial role in the chain of molecular events enabling light signals to control gene activity in plants. The discovery sheds light on how plants respond to light and could lead to breakthroughs in agricultural yields and weed management.
Researchers have successfully improved nematodes to control the western corn rootworm, a major pest causing $1 billion of damage annually in the US. The nematodes were enhanced to respond more effectively to a volatile signal emitted by infested roots.
A laboratory milling device called the 'insect-o-graph' can detect internal insects in wheat that are not visible to the eye or detectable by usual grading methods. The system estimates the number of live insects hidden in a one-kilogram grain sample in about one minute.
Gastrointestinal symptoms are common in peritoneal dialysis patients, with a history of corticosteroid therapy and daily pill intake positively correlated to GI symptoms. Residual renal function is negatively correlated to GI symptoms, suggesting its role in predicting complications.
Researchers at Medical College of Georgia are investigating a link between hemochromatosis and the wet form of macular degeneration. They suspect that excessive iron levels accelerate aging in the eyes, leading to increased risk of vision loss.
Researchers at Neurocentre Magendie in Bordeaux found that addiction is caused by a persistent impairment of synaptic plasticity, leading to a permanent loss of the brain's ability to adapt and learn. This lack of plasticity results in compulsive consumption and loss of control over drug use.
A pre-emptive multimodal pain regimen reduced opioid analgesic use in robotic prostatectomy patients. The study found a mean opioid dose of 49.1 mg for those receiving the regimen, compared to 75.3 mg for standard care.
European Urology has released a new impact factor of 7,667, highlighting its status as a top urological forum for over 35 years. The journal is read by 20,000 urologists globally and offers high-quality papers, fast response, and an international profile.
Rice University researchers developed a method to use an off-the-shelf digital camera to distinguish cancerous cells from healthy ones. The device uses fluorescent dyes and fiber-optic cables to capture images of tissues, allowing doctors to identify abnormal cells quickly and accurately.
23andMe's web-based research framework facilitates rapid recruitment of participants, reducing time and money needed for new discoveries. The study replicated several known genetic associations, including novel SNP associations for hair curl and freckling.
Researchers used ultra-short time measurement technology to test the assumption that electrons leave atoms immediately after photon impact. They found a small but measurable time delay of about twenty attoseconds, indicating electrons 'hesitate' before leaving.
The Lancet Editorial emphasizes the need for low-cost and easy-to-implement interventions to address the global type 2 diabetes epidemic. The campaign led by Michelle Obama's Let's Move initiative promotes a three-component approach: nutrition, activity, and children.
A mathematical model reproducing sleep patterns for multiple species suggests the neural circuitry controlling human sleep may be universal across mammals. The study reveals fundamental physiological mechanisms underlying diverse sleep patterns, with implications for understanding evolution and diversity in mammalian sleep.
The study found that transposons are surprisingly prevalent and active in lung cancer genomes, disrupting the blueprint of the human body. Researchers predict that this variation will lead to more genetic disorders and diseases.
A recent study of 700,000 people found that diabetes approximately doubles the risk of developing blood vessel diseases, including heart attacks and strokes. The disease is now estimated to be responsible for 325,000 cardiovascular deaths per year in industrialized countries.
A study by Texas A&M University found that lack of necessary environmental supports is a significant challenge for parents of children with disabilities. The research highlights the need for family-centered services to meet their needs, particularly in terms of access to information, financial support, and community inclusion.
A team of scientists has developed a method to correct the irregularities in pulsar spin rates, enabling them to serve as more accurate clocks. This breakthrough could help detect gravitational waves, which are believed to exist but have yet to be directly observed.
Researchers found that a specific virus interacts with a mutation in the host's genes to trigger disease. In mice, exposure to a damaging chemical and infection with a viral strain caused symptoms similar to human Crohn's disease, suggesting viruses may be key to understanding complex diseases.
A study led by Dr. Sohn DK demonstrated the safety of endoscopic piecemeal resection (EPMR) for large sessile colorectal polyps. The research showed low relapse rates in patients with benign polyps after EPMR, but higher recurrence rates in malignant lesions. The authors suggest that complete removal of cancer cells is crucial to preve...
The university's I-LEAD program aims to improve communication skills between medical and nursing students through real-life experiences and simulated patient exercises. The project seeks to develop interprofessional curriculum models that can be shared with other schools across the country.
Physicists at UC Berkeley confirm that photons do not act like fermions, validating Bose-Einstein statistics and Quantum Field Theory. The experiment tested the fundamental assumptions underlying these theories, including Lorentz invariance and microcausality.
Researchers found significant correlation between shear wave velocity and histological fibrous stages in nonalcoholic steatohepatitis. This technology allows for longitudinal evaluation of liver rigidity at multiple sites, potentially useful for fibrous staging and prognostic indicator.
Diabetes prevalence is set to double by 2030 in sub-Saharan Africa due to rapid urbanization and lifestyle changes. Implementing national diabetes prevention programs involving multiple sectors is crucial to address this public health issue.
Researchers found that carvedilol can lessen the degenerative impact of Alzheimer's disease and promote healthy memory functions in mice. The study suggests that certain antihypertensive drugs already available to the public may independently influence memory functions.
A team of researchers discovered the molecular mechanisms governing Gerbera's unique inflorescence structure, characterized by three different flower types. The study highlights an expanded gene family that likely plays a new role in the formation of this complex structure, differing from Arabidopsis species.
A 26-week randomized study found that once-weekly exenatide significantly improved blood sugar control, inducing a mean weight loss of 2.6kg per patient, compared to insulin glargine's lesser effect and mean weight gain of 1.4kg. The treatment also had lower rates of hypoglycemia and a progressive decrease in bodyweight.
A randomized study found that inhaled insulin plus insulin glargine achieved similar blood sugar control as twice-daily premixed biaspart insulin, with less weight gain and hypoglycemia. The treatment also showed a better safety profile, with fewer cough and lung function issues.
The device mimics a human lung, detecting bacteria and activating an immune response. It also shows that mechanical breathing enhances nanoparticle absorption, increasing toxicity.
Scientists at Yale University have developed a method to create high-resolution 3D models of intact mouse organs, allowing for non-invasive imaging and analysis. This breakthrough uses fluorescence microscopy and optical clearing to image tissues up to depths of over two millimeters, enabling the creation of virtual 3D biopsies.
A Kaiser Permanente Center for Health Research study found that simple, automated telephone reminders can increase colon cancer screening rates by 30 percent. The study, which involved nearly 6,000 members in Oregon and Washington, showed that people were more likely to get screened after receiving automated reminders.
Research at Stanford University School of Medicine has pinpointed the molecular cause of Bardet-Biedl syndrome, a genetic disorder associated with obesity, retinal degeneration, and kidney cysts. The primary cilium acts as a communication hub where signaling pathways take place, influencing weight gain and fat storage.
NASA infrared imagery hinted Darby would become a hurricane due to strong convection and rapidly rising air. The storm intensified into category one hurricane on June 24, with maximum sustained winds near 75 mph.
Researchers discover that toll-like receptors (TLRs) such as TLR4 are overexpressed in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), promoting tumor progression. The study also found a positive correlation between TLR4 and HIF-1α expression, suggesting TLR4 as a potential marker for PDAC progression.
A new Brigham Young University study reveals that parenting style significantly influences teens' heavy drinking habits. Teens with parents who scored high on both accountability and warmth were least prone to heavy drinking, while those with 'indulgent' or 'strict' parents faced higher risks.
A Yale-led team of psychologists found that physical sensations can shape our thoughts and perceptions, leading to different behaviors towards others. The study demonstrated how dramatic the impact of touch can be on our interactions with job applicants, relationships, and negotiations.
Scientists found that visually stimulating female Houbara bustard brooders with highly displaying male birds increased their fertility and breeding success. This led to better offspring growth rates due to increased testosterone allocation, suggesting a potential means for conserving vulnerable species.
A recent study published in the Journal of the American Society of Nephrology found that dialysis patients taking digoxin had a 28% higher risk of death compared to those not taking the medication. The increased risk was greatest among patients with higher levels of digoxin in their blood.
Scientists discovered characteristic amyloid plaques in human retinas and developed a noninvasive optical imaging technique to detect retinal plaques in live laboratory mice. The study suggests the possibility of early noninvasive diagnosis and monitoring of Alzheimer's disease through retinal imaging.
The UK10K project will analyze the genomes of 4,000 people with extensive health data and 6,000 people with extreme obesity and other conditions. The goal is to identify rare genetic variants important in human disease and improve our understanding of genetics.
A Spanish study reviews methods for detecting substances in breast milk and their adverse effects on newborns. The general recommendation is to avoid drug abuse during breastfeeding due to the risk of transmission through breast milk, as well as exposure during pregnancy and environment.
TWAS has received the 2010 Premio Feltrinelli award for its unprecedented accomplishments in promoting scientific capacity in developing countries. The prize includes a Euro 250,000 cash award and recognizes TWAS's inspirational mission to advance global economic and social well-being through South-South cooperation in science.
Researchers have discovered a new chemical method that makes it easier to incorporate fluorine into organic molecules. This process can modulate the uptake of drugs and stabilize them against metabolism by the body, making them more effective. The team developed this method using a soluble palladium catalyst under mild conditions.
Segmental duodenectomy (SD) is a reliable and curative option for most duodenal gastrointestinal stromal tumors, offering long-term disease-free survival. In contrast, pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD) remains a good alternative for tumors in the vicinity of the pancreas.
Researchers predict carbon dioxide levels will double by 2050, altering plant diseases and affecting crop yields. Elevated carbon dioxide and ozone can make plants more susceptible to some diseases, but less susceptible to others.
Psychologists at Harvard University found that physical attributes of incidental objects can profoundly impact our social interactions. Researchers discovered that weight, texture, and hardness of objects can unconsciously influence judgments about unrelated events.
A new report confirms that routine, jail-based HIV testing can identify a substantial proportion of people unknowingly infected with HIV. The study found nearly 170 new HIV diagnoses among Rhode Island inmates during an eight-year period, highlighting the potential for this testing to prevent disease spread.
Researchers predict perennial grain crops could be available in two decades, offering a sustainable solution to feed the world's growing population. These crops have longer growing seasons, deeper roots, and require fewer herbicides and equipment passes, reducing erosion and sequestering carbon.