Scientists have determined the structure of a previously unseen part of the insulin receptor, which could lead to new treatments for diabetes. Understanding how insulin interacts with the receptor is crucial for developing effective therapies.
An analysis of nearly 25 years of data found a strong association between socioeconomic position and risk of death, with health behaviors explaining 42% of the association. Health behaviors assessed at baseline explained 29% of the gradient for cardiovascular mortality, increasing to 45% when entered as time-dependent covariates.
A study of 34,079 healthy US women found that moderate-intensity physical activity is needed to prevent long-term weight gain, particularly among normal-weight individuals. Women who successfully maintained their weight averaged approximately 60 minutes of moderate-intensity activity daily.
A study by Indiana University faculty members challenges conventional wisdom that education and income are inversely related to support for suicide bombings. The research found that education levels are more strongly opposed to civilian-targeted bombings, but not necessarily to foreign-targeted attacks.
A new ultra-rapid acting mealtime insulin is orally inhaled for absorption via the lung, mimicking the natural early insulin response. This innovative technology uses a delivery system that applies to other drugs currently injected, with potential benefits including reduced hypoglycemia and weight gain.
Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center found that leptin administration showed better management of blood-sugar variability and lipogenesis, the conversion of simple sugars into fatty acids. Leptin therapy also reduced food intake and increased lean body mass in non-obese type 1 diabetic mice.
Researchers delayed onset of type 2 diabetes in rats by relocating a portion of the small intestine, identifying biochemical changes that may contribute to this effect. The study's findings suggest bariatric surgery may improve type 2 diabetes without relying on weight loss.
Research at Emory University School of Medicine found that high phosphate diet promotes tumor formation and growth in skin cancer, while restricting phosphate may prevent cancer. The study suggests that altered levels of phosphate could tip the balance of chemical reactions influencing cancer development.
A new species of plant-eating dinosaur, Seitaad ruessi, has been discovered in the Navajo Sandstone of Utah's red rocks. The dinosaur lived around 185 million years ago during the Early Jurassic Period and was part of a group known as sauropodomorphs, which includes giant sauropods with long necks and tails.
Researchers have discovered a new drug that targets the root cause of painful menstrual cramps, called dysmenorrhea. The compound, VA111913, has shown promise in Phase II clinical trials and could be available to patients in four years if studies continue to show positive results.
Dr. Jacob Scheuer's new invention transmits binary lock-and-key information in light pulses, ensuring secure communication without eavesdropping. The system uses a special laser to send different signals that can be distinguished by the sender and receiver but appear identical to an attacker.
Researchers at MIT and Korea have developed a new approach to desalination called ion concentration polarization that can remove contaminants, viruses, and bacteria while producing fresh water. The system is small, portable, and efficient, making it suitable for disaster sites or remote locations.
A study of nearly 100 early-stopped clinical trials found that many positive treatment effects were exaggerated. Researchers recommend continuing trials for longer periods to ensure accurate estimates of treatment effects.
Researchers found successful advocates collaborate with local and national organizations, lobbyists, and sponsoring legislators to aid in tanning bed bill passage. Strong lobbying efforts by the tanning industry hindered passage, while knowledgeable healthcare providers and public health advocates were key resources.
Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center found that a synthetic compound called JP1201, mimicking the action of a 'death-promoting' protein, can enhance chemotherapy's efficacy and prolong life in mice with pancreatic cancer. The study demonstrates promising results for potential therapies against this devastating disease.
Researchers at Penn State College of Medicine have identified a set of 17 proteins in the blood that accurately predict alcohol usage 90% of the time. These proteins can distinguish between excessive and responsible drinking levels, offering a potential diagnostic test for alcohol consumption.
Researchers from Indiana University School of Medicine found a genetic link between neurofibromatosis type 1 disease and cardiovascular disease in children. The study suggests that treatments targeting inflammation may be effective in preventing sudden death from cardiovascular disease.
A new study found that automated laboratory reporting of estimated glomerular filtration rate (GFR) was associated with a significant increase in first-time visits to a kidney specialist, especially among older or female patients and those at increased risk of late detection of kidney disease. The rate of visits increased by 68% for pa...
Researchers at UAB Center for Research in Applied Gerontology are testing InSight software to enhance reflexes and reaction time among senior adult drivers, aiming to reduce car crashes. The study involves training exercises on a computer screen and has the potential to help older adults maintain their cognitive function and mobility.
A study analyzed 52 paintings of the Last Supper and found that portion size, plate size, and bread size increased dramatically over the past thousand years. The main courses depicted grew by 69%, while plate sizes increased by 66% and bread sizes by 23%.
A new study has found that people in their 20s and 30s have significant balance issues, increasing their risk for falling. The test, developed by University of Missouri researcher Carmen Abbott, is a combination of a health questionnaire and physical performance tests.
Researchers have identified the shape of a protein molecule at various stages as it breaks down sugar to produce energy, offering insights into how cells regulate their activities. This discovery could lead to the development of new treatments for diseases such as sleeping sickness.
Scientists found widespread global contamination of sea sand and seawater with BPA from hard plastic trash and epoxy paint. The biodegradation of hard plastics releases BPA, posing risks to marine life in low concentrations.
Research involving over 5000 people found hair dye and smoking increase risk of primary biliary cirrhosis, a progressive autoimmune liver disease. Smoking was also more common among those with PBC compared to the general population.
Researchers found that infants are more likely to help an actress who has previously shown good intentions, even if they were unable to provide a toy. This suggests that by 21 months, infants display selective helping behavior based on their previous interactions with others.
A University of Montreal study found that men and women respond differently to stress, with high blood pressure and heart rate in women who are more defensive. Older men with low defensive reactions have higher cardiovascular rates. The study suggests that socialization and maintaining self-esteem contribute to these responses.
Researchers found that queso fresco can retain its characteristic texture for two months when stored at 39 degrees Fahrenheit, but breaks down at 50 degrees F. The study suggests lowering the supermarket display case temperature to improve shelf life and quality of this popular Mexican cheese.
A new model of tectonic-plate movements has been developed by University of Wisconsin-Madison geophysicist Chuck DeMets and his collaborators. The MORVEL model offers a precise description of the relative movements of 25 interlocking plates, accounting for 97% of the Earth's surface.
A study of 70,709 American nurses found that consuming long-chain Omega-3 fatty acids may reduce the risk of endometriosis by 22%, while eating trans fats increases the risk by 48%. Dietary changes, such as reducing trans fats and increasing Omega-3 oils, may be a useful strategy for preventing or alleviating endometriosis symptoms.
A new study in the journal Political Insight suggests that older adults can play a pivotal role in their communities through dedicated volunteering and participation. The researchers argue that promoting lifelong learning and community action among older people can help them feel less overwhelmed and isolated, and may even lead to bett...
Research reveals commercial cooking as a significant source of air pollutants, including carcinogenic chemicals. The study found that fatty foods cooked with high heat and certain oils increase emissions, highlighting the need for emission control measures.
Researchers developed a new approach to quantify the influence of microRNAs on protein production, discovering that a single microRNA can regulate hundreds of proteins.
A University of Montreal student is tracking the decline of frog species in Quebec, finding a slight decrease in frogs near Phragmites australis growth, but intact northern leopard frog populations. Experimental research aims to understand pH levels, oxygen, and temperature effects on amphibians in controlled water basins.
Researchers found an inverse association between high systolic blood pressure and mortality risk, with those having high BP having a favorable prognosis. Patients with higher systolic BP had lower mortality rates compared to those with lower BP levels.
Curcumin reduces bile duct blockage, liver cell damage, and scarring in mice with chronic liver inflammation. The spice interferes with chemical signalling pathways involved in the inflammatory process, offering a promising alternative to current treatments like ursodeoxycholic acid.
Researchers have discovered elderly people with super-sharp memory who escaped formation of brain tangles, a hallmark of Alzheimer's disease. These 'super-aged' individuals were found to be protected from the negative effects of tangle formation.
Researchers at UCLA have created a new material combining quantum dots and silicon, enabling electronic devices to operate without passing an electric current. This breakthrough could lead to the development of non-volatile electronics with much lower power consumption.
A new study aims to investigate whether erectile dysfunction drugs can improve muscle blood flow and reduce fatigue in muscular dystrophy patients. The research, led by Ronald G. Victor, will test the effects of tadalafil on muscle blood flow during exercise in adult males with Becker muscular dystrophy.
Researchers at the University of Michigan have developed mini generators that can produce electricity from random, non-periodic vibrations. These devices have the potential to power a range of applications, including remote wireless sensors and surgically implanted medical devices.
Researchers at UK universities are developing nanotechnology solutions to convert CO2 into chemicals for fuel cells, produce vehicle fuels, and remove CO2 from the atmosphere. The projects aim to reduce energy consumption and create new industries.
A new virtual biopsy probe system has shown high accuracy in detecting precancerous polyps during colonoscopy, with a success rate of 91%. The system uses Confocal Laser Endomicroscopy to magnify cells and detect changes that may indicate cancer. This technology could potentially eliminate the need for biopsies in some patients.
Researchers at Rush University Medical Center found a significant association between HIV infection and community-acquired MRSA (CA-MRSA) rates. CA-MRSA cases were nearly six-fold higher in HIV-infected patients compared to those without HIV, highlighting the need for education and research into preventive strategies.
A team of life scientists and computer researchers, led by Thomas Brutnell, is working on the iPlant project to develop a computational pipeline for processing ultra-high-throughput sequence datasets. The goal is to make it easier to analyze large datasets and predict plant responses to environmental changes.
Tropical Storm 02W is moving northwestward, weakening due to a trough and increasing vertical wind shear. High surf and swells are expected to persist along all shores in Micronesia until Wednesday morning, posing a risk of coastal inundation and hazardous marine conditions.
In a controlled experiment, researchers found that binge drinking did not impact academic test scores, but slowed attention and reaction times. Binge drinking may still affect other types of academic performance, such as essay-writing and problem-solving.
A study found that agave fructans can boost calcium absorption, potentially preventing osteoporosis. Fructans also have anti-inflammatory properties and may help regulate blood sugar levels.
Rival bacterial colonies use a toxic protein called sibling lethal factor to outcompete each other for limited nutrients. The protein kills cells at the edge of a colony closest to a competing group, creating a lopsided growth pattern and preserving scarce resources.
Scientists have created a bio-based sunscreen active ingredient from soybean oil, providing a natural solution to replace hazardous ingredients in personal care products. The new agent, feruloyl soy glycerides, absorbs both UV-A and UV-B light while being anti-aging and anti-wrinkle.
Researchers found significant changes in facial bones, particularly the jaw bone, occur with age and contribute to an aging appearance. The study suggests a two-step approach to facial rejuvenation: first restoring structure underneath before performing skin-tightening procedures.
Amit Hagar's three-year NSF grant will support the first comprehensive study of fundamental length, exploring its history and philosophy. The research aims to reconcile this concept with established principles and drive innovation in theoretical physics.
A new study finds that the Greenland ice sheet is losing mass on its northwest coast, with uplift rates increasing by 1.5 inches from 2005 to 2009. This acceleration in ice loss suggests that glaciers are sliding downhill faster and dumping more ice in the ocean, contributing to global sea-level rise.
Scientists from Queen's University Belfast have successfully boosted the endangered freshwater mussel population through a 12-year cultivation project, releasing over 300 mussels into the wild. The conservation team can track the mussels using Passive Integrated Transponders, allowing for relocation and monitoring of the animals.
Researchers analyzed 15 female loggerheads' shells to discover their surprising dietary and travel habits. The findings suggest the turtles are surprisingly different in their range, diet, or both, with individualistic patterns revealed over a span of 12 years.
Researchers found that each junco has a unique and recognizable odor profile stable over two weeks, distinguishable from other individuals. The study's findings suggest that smell could play a role in reproductive isolation and the origin of new bird species.
A study published in Psychological Science found that law students' optimism about their future affected their immune response, with more optimistic students showing stronger immune responses. The researchers measured the students' immune systems over six months and found a significant correlation between optimism and immune strength.
UC engineering researchers have created a paradigm shift in microfluidics by developing a lab-on-a-chip with programmable microfluidic systems. This innovation enables the reconfiguration of microchannel structure as needed for performing various biomedical assays, such as DNA analysis and immunoassays.
Tropical Cyclone 21S is a compact storm about 90 miles in diameter, with maximum sustained winds near 46 mph. The storm is moving southwest at 8 mph and is expected to be short-lived due to vertical wind shear, posing no threat to land areas.
Scientists develop non-destructive carbon dating technique to analyze hundreds of museum collections and priceless objects like the Shroud of Turin. The new method uses plasma to oxidize surface of artifact, producing carbon dioxide for C-14 analysis.
Researchers at University of Leeds assess the impact of a proposed EU fishing discard ban on North Sea gannet success. Gannets have developed specialized feeding habits, with some relying heavily on discards, making a ban potentially harmful to their breeding.
The second tropical depression of the northwestern Pacific season has formed, located about 235 miles east-southeast of Yap, Micronesia. Strong convection and thunderstorms are expected, generating 10-foot high waves and high surf across the region.