A peer-based intervention increased knowledge and discussion of living liver donation among candidates, leading to a 42% surge in donations. The number of individuals presented for donation evaluation also rose by 74%, as reported in the January 2010 issue of Liver Transplantation.
A long-term study by Indiana University School of Medicine found that frequent testing and treatment does not reduce the prevalence of chlamydia in urban teenage girls. Despite regular screenings, 84% of repeated infections were reinfections.
NASA is developing a primary mirror for the James Webb Space Telescope to study the formation of the universe and its solar system. The mirror will be tested at extreme temperatures to simulate space conditions, with data from three different sizes of segments collected during this test.
New fossil footprints in Poland push back the origin of tetrapods by 18 million years, forcing a reassessment of their evolution. The discovery suggests that early tetrapods inhabited the marine intertidal zone during the early Middle Devonian period and may have first left water to feed on stranded marine life.
Researchers at Brandeis will explore the behavior of active matter using interdisciplinary approaches, aiming to shed light on biological structures like flagella beating. The project seeks to elucidate the properties of active matter at length scales ranging from microscopic to macroscopic.
A recent study by Lee Cerveny investigated the social and cultural impacts of tourism in southeast Alaska, capturing the effects of increased cruise ship travel. The research revealed more than 35 types of partnerships within the Forest Service, indicating a reliance on volunteer organizations to manage natural resources.
Scientists at the University of Leicester have developed environmentally friendly solvents, replacing toxic acids in metal finishing and energy storage processes. The new technologies, including ionic liquids, improve working conditions and reduce environmental impact.
Researchers discovered how plants sense temperature changes by unwrapping their DNA; this discovery could lead to more resilient crops and help explain plant responses to climate change. The study used Arabidopsis thaliana and found that H2A.Z histones play a crucial role in temperature sensing.
A recent study found that the Cold War's economic isolation led to a decline in introduced bird species in Eastern Europe, while Western Europe experienced an increase. The research highlights the importance of preventing exotic species importation to prevent ecosystem disruption.
A new UCLA study has found that metformin is safe for use in treating patients with both diabetes and advanced heart failure, suggesting improved survival rates. The study involved 401 patients who were followed for 14 years and showed a lower risk of death among those taking metformin.
Scientists discovered that Myxococcus xanthus cells recognize subtle genetic differences in one another, inhibiting cooperation and promoting competition. This suggests that cooperation may be driven by a desire to maintain evolutionary dominance rather than a shared kinship bond.
The NIH is awarding grants to strengthen S.T.E.M. education nationwide, targeting young people in biomedical careers and improving science literacy in adults and children. The $18.3 million funding supports research to develop practical interventions for tomorrow's classrooms and addresses issues of equity in S.T.E.M. competencies.
Researchers have developed an efficient way to genetically modify human embryonic stem cells using bacterial artificial chromosomes, which can increase the yield by up to 20%. This approach enables the rapid development of stem cell lines that can serve as models for human genetic diseases and testbeds for potential treatments.
Researchers found that volunteering was associated with lower rates of frailty after three years, even after accounting for physical and cognitive function. The study suggests that participating in volunteer activities may help older adults maintain their health and prevent frailty.
A new University of Colorado at Boulder study finds that warmer climates may reduce the ability of subalpine forests to absorb carbon dioxide. The research suggests that these forests, which store an estimated 70% of the western United States' carbon sink, will be less effective in converting CO2 into biomass due to declining snowpacks.
A new study found that genetic variants associated with increased CRP levels are not linked to an increased risk of cancer. However, the researchers suggest that chronic inflammation may still contribute to cancer development.
University of Central Florida researchers have revealed a previously unknown mechanism that may drive the early brain function deterioration of Alzheimer's victims, potentially leading to preventive treatment. The discovery uses an existing cell research technique to accelerate the search for treatments.
Scientists at JGH and McGill University discovered a novel link between phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN) and protein kinase R (PKR), leading to runaway protein synthesis in cancer cells. This breakthrough could lead to new treatments for deadly forms of cancer, including prostate, brain, and melanoma.
The COMPARE study found that everolimus-eluting stents significantly reduced serious adverse cardiac events compared to paclitaxel-eluting stents. The study concluded that the use of second-generation everolimus-eluting stents was associated with a significant reduction in major adverse cardiac events at 1 year.
A team of scientists from the University of Sheffield has created an air-lift loop bioreactor that consumes less than 18% more energy, making it a significant breakthrough in the production of alternative renewable fuels. The device is now being tested with various organizations to reduce energy consumption and costs.
Researchers are conducting a Phase 2 clinical trial to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of CERE-110, a viral-based gene transfer system delivering nerve growth factor to slow Alzheimer's disease progression. The study aims to delay AD symptoms and progression in patients with mild to moderate Alzheimer's.
A group of renowned environmental scientists is urging the US EPA and Army Corps of Engineers to suspend new mountaintop mining permits, citing extensive scientific evidence of permanent environmental harm and increased human health risks. The authors argue that mitigation practices are ineffective in reversing damage and recommend a 2...
The study reveals that RNA molecules' 3D shapes are dictated by their junctions, similar to how anatomical features define arm motion. The researchers also found that drug molecules interact with RNA in predictable ways, with size being a key factor in determining the preferred orientation.
Tropical cyclone Edzani has strengthened due to low wind shear and warm ocean temperatures, with heavy thunderstorms near its center. The storm is expected to continue intensifying over the next two days before hitting cooler waters.
Researchers identified a biomarker called elafin that can be measured in a blood test to diagnose bone marrow transplant patients' skin rashes and predict GVHD risk. The test enables doctors to adjust therapy based on patient risk levels, potentially reducing side effects.
Researchers have identified a gene, Kir2.6, underlying the rare genetic disease thyrotoxic hypokalemic periodic paralysis (TPP), which causes temporary muscle paralysis. The finding, published in the journal Cell, illustrates how investigations of rare genetic diseases can drive insights into more common ones.
A new simulation by researchers at the American Museum of Natural History and University of Cambridge shows that regions of outward and inward migration in a protoplanetary disk can safely trap planets on orbits. This helps explain how Earth formed without falling into the Sun.
Researchers at the University of Alberta have identified a universal mechanism that ensures peroxisomes transfer into cells after division, potentially leading to prevention or treatment of deadly disorders. The discovery has implications for screening carriers and could help babies born with peroxisome disorders survive longer.
The study reveals that wild Iberian horses played a role in the origin of modern Iberian domestic stock, with their maternal lineages present in ancient DNA sequences. The researchers also found evidence of a completely independent domestication episode or restocking process using Iberian maternal lineages.
University of Florida urologists have developed a robot-assisted vasectomy reversal procedure that cuts average surgery time by 20 minutes, comparable to traditional microscope methods. The robotic procedure also shows quicker return of sperm count and improved efficiency.
A study published in the Journal of Infectious Diseases found that each additional 1.1 pounds of birth weight decreases tuberculosis risk by 46% among identical twins. The association is stronger for males, with an 87% reduced risk, and sheds light on the developmental origins of health and disease.
UC researcher Michal Polak confirms one of Darwin's theories by showing that the spines on Drosophila bipectinata males assist them in copulation. The study found that removing these spines resulted in drastic reductions in ability to copulate and compete for mates.
A study of 1,243 male US veterans with moderate-to-advanced chronic kidney disease found that both high and low blood calcium levels increased the risk of dying prematurely. High calcium levels were linked to a 31% increased risk, while low levels resulted in a 21% higher mortality rate.
A key epigenetic process in the brain's pleasure circuits is altered by chronic cocaine exposure, contributing to an acquired preference for cocaine. By reversing this epigenetic change, researchers were able to block gene expression changes and inhibit cocaine preference.
Researchers at the Institut de recherches cliniques de Montréal have identified a new molecular pathway required for the guidance of retinal axons within the optic chiasm. This guidance relies on the Boc receptor, which could lead to therapies stimulating axonal growth after injury or in neurodegenerative disorders.
Researchers propose integrating NTD interventions into the regular health system, leveraging resources from malaria, HIV/AIDS, and tuberculosis programs. Careful planning and community engagement are crucial for successful integration and co-implementation of these efforts.
Researchers have made a breakthrough in engineering nanoscale materials, enabling the creation of large-scale arrays of individual structures with precise locations. This discovery could lead to advancements in sensing, transistors, and other applications.
A study published in Cancer Cell reveals that epigenetic differences can distinguish patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) into subtypes with varying responsiveness to therapy. A set of 15-gene DNA methylation biomarkers was found to be highly predictive of patient survival.
A team of experts found that knowing fish spawning habits and oceanographic models can increase both conservation and fisheries profitability. Spatial information is key to achieving this balance.
Dr. Jay Kolls' research team has identified a unique group of white blood cells that rapidly produce cytokines to increase resistance to pneumonia. The grant will investigate the role of lung epithelium as the primary recipient of these signals and explore how these cells control infection defense in the lung.
Researchers observed a nanoscale guitar string-like behavior in cobalt niobate, with atomic scale vibrations exhibiting the golden ratio. This discovery reflects a hidden symmetry and special property of the quantum system, with potential implications for future technology.
The updated childhood vaccine schedule recommends the H1N1 influenza vaccine for children over 6 months and prioritizes combination vaccines. The revised schedule also includes recommendations for human papillomavirus (HPV) and meningococcal vaccines, aiming to protect against cervical cancer and meningococcal disease.
A Massachusetts General Hospital study found significantly more coronary atherosclerotic plaques and obstructive coronary artery disease in HIV-infected men with minimal cardiac risk factors. The research highlights the importance of addressing cardiovascular risk factors early in HIV disease.
A study in Psychological Science reveals that hand amputation distorts visuospatial perception of the action space. Participants with amputations underestimated distances relative to their intact limbs. The research suggests losing a hand may 'shrink' the action space, leading to permanent spatial perception distortions.
A negative physical education experience during childhood can have a lasting impact on a person's attitude towards physical activity. Research by University of Alberta professor Billy Strean highlights the importance of creating a fun and playful environment for young athletes.
Researchers found that RA patients treated with rituximab in combination with methotrexate had the same immune response to the tetanus vaccine as those treated with methotrexate alone. However, patients on rituximab had a reduced response to the pneumonia vaccine compared to those on methotrexate alone.
A study of critically ill H1N1 children found that serious complications developed quickly and unpredictably, with great variations from patient to patient. The virus behaves variably in different patients, highlighting the need for rapid screening tests and preemptive antiviral medications.
Researchers at Stanford University School of Medicine identified a new method for reducing drug side effects by focusing on neglected areas of cell-surface proteins. By analyzing the shape changes in response to drugs, they discovered potential targets for more selective and effective medications.
Kai W. Wucherpfennig, a Dana-Farber Cancer Institute researcher, has been named a Fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) for his contributions to immunology and T-cell activation in human autoimmune disease. The AAAS Fellowship recognizes his distinguished efforts to advance science and its applications.
Researchers found that RA patients treated with rituximab are partially protected by the influenza vaccine, but its effectiveness is drastically reduced in the first 6 months following treatment. The study's results suggest that RA activity was not influenced by the flu vaccine administration.
The International Headache Society has published new research guidelines to stimulate more research into headache treatment and reduce health risks associated with treatment. The guidelines focus on episodic and chronic tension-type headaches, aiming to identify more effective treatments and improve clinical trial safety for patients.
Two large trials found misoprostol tablets non-inferior to intravenous oxytocin for controlling postpartum bleeding, with similar efficacy but increased side effects. The findings support the potential role of misoprostol as a first-line treatment alternative in low-resource settings.
The Center for the History and Ethics of Public Health at Columbia's Mailman School will use the grant to extend its intellectual mission and bring humanities insights to public health challenges. The grant will support a $3,000,000 endowment campaign for faculty chairs, lectures, and research.
A genetic locus on chromosome 7 has been linked to canine compulsive disorder, a condition characterized by repetitive behaviors. The neural cadherin-2 gene, CDH2, is involved in mediating synaptic activity and neuronal adhesion, suggesting a possible connection to human obsessive-compulsive disorder.
Researchers discovered that UV LED light can reduce seizure-like activity in rat epilepsy models by releasing gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA), a natural neurotransmitter. The study suggests that this technique could be translated to human focal epilepsy, offering an alternative treatment option.
Researchers in Brazil develop a GRASP heuristic for efficient school timetabling, solving the NP-hard problem by balancing teacher preferences, student schedules, and resource constraints. The algorithm improves solution quality and reduces building time.
A recent study by Research Australia suggests that relying solely on fat oxidation for weight loss is ineffective. The research found that mice genetically altered to burn fats in preference to carbohydrates still converted unburned carbohydrates into stored fat, ultimately leading to the same weight and body composition as normal mice.
A new study published in the Journal of Alzheimer's Disease suggests that long-term cell phone exposure may protect against and even reverse Alzheimer's disease. The research found that electromagnetic waves generated by cell phones erased brain deposits of beta-amyloid, a hallmark of Alzheimer's disease, in mice.
Scientists developed a nanodragster that can outperform previous nano-sized vehicles and address limitations in controlling small molecule motion. The new vehicle features improved wheels and axle design, enabling better agility and potentially paving the way for more advanced molecular machines.
A new policy paper questions the economic, environmental and logistical basis for billions of dollars in federal subsidies and protectionist tariffs for domestic ethanol producers. The report highlights the environmental threats posed by current biofuels policy and challenges claims that ethanol use lowers greenhouse gas emissions.