A study published in Cell Stem Cell reveals that NURF, an enzyme that regulates DNA packaging, allows specific genes to be turned on and off in stem cells. This dynamic structure enables stem cells to maintain their potency and prevent differentiation into other cell types.
Researchers at Northwestern University and Duke University will study opportunities for improving the FDA's 510(k) product review process and examine the lifetime benefits of implantable devices. The studies aim to build evidence-based policy and improve patient outcomes.
Conservationists argue that managing biodiversity as a global public good is key to its preservation. The paper emphasizes the need for policymakers, businesses, and civil society to incorporate biodiversity into their decisions.
A European Union version of the US 'priority review voucher' system could incentivize pharmaceutical companies to develop treatments for neglected diseases. The system would offer accelerated regulatory review, pricing, and reimbursement decisions in exchange for developing a treatment for a neglected disease.
Kendall Hunter will use non-invasive ultrasound measurements and invasive heart catheterization to diagnose and predict progression of PAH. The grant aims to improve diagnosis and treatment of this fatal disease in children and adults.
A simplified clinical tool has led to the reclassification of millions of Americans into different risk groups, potentially affecting their treatment. The study found that 15% of adults were reclassified, with 10% moving to higher-risk groups and 5% to lower-risk groups, leading to potential over-treatment or under-treatment.
Researchers found that people retain memories more effectively when their brain activity is similar each time they study the same information. This challenges the long-held belief that variable contexts enhance memory retention. The findings provide new insights into effective studying and cognitive processing.
The OSPREY clinical trial evaluates the safety and efficacy of Terumo's MISAGO Stent System for treating peripheral artery disease in the US and Japan. The study aims to streamline the product approval process through unprecedented international regulatory cooperation.
Researchers developed new measures of aging that take into account disability status and longevity, revealing slower aging rates in many populations. The study found that traditional measures can generate misleading results, but new metrics provide a more accurate picture of population aging.
The NIH is launching two major research efforts to combat childhood obesity, one focusing on long-term prevention and treatment approaches, the other evaluating community efforts to reduce rates. These studies aim to encourage healthy habits in children that can last a lifetime.
A retrospective study of 223 patients with terminal cancer found that opioid use was both safe and effective in the home setting. Patients who received higher doses had a longer median survival time compared to those who received lower doses.
Researchers validate sentiment that a single death is more tragic than a million, as people form vivid mental representations of individual victims. The scope-severity paradox exists in judgments of harm, leading to harsher punishments for crimes with identifiable victims.
Researchers found that men who show more concern for their female partners with PVD may trigger more pain but also boost sexual satisfaction. The key to reducing pain is shifting focus away from vaginal intercourse while maintaining emotional intimacy.
The 23rd ECNP Congress highlighted the latest discoveries and perspectives in mental health, including gene-environment interactions, circadian rhythms, and brain disease mechanisms. Key take-home messages focused on improving pharmacological and non-drug treatments for mental disorders.
Experts warn that biotech companies in emerging economies are making innovative contributions to address health problems. They have brought affordable products to prevent, diagnose and remedy illnesses of local concern, but risk diverting focus from diseases of poverty as they grow in financial strength.
The Neurophotonics Research Center aims to develop a two-way fiber optic communication link between prosthetic limbs and peripheral nerves, enabling realistic movement and 'feeling' sensations. Successful completion will allow for revolutionary freedom of movement and agility for amputees.
Uruguay's move to increase tobacco pack health warnings and plain packaging sparks a legal battle with Philip Morris, highlighting the clash between national health control and trade agreements. The case has significant implications for global health governance, international law, and the regulation of tobacco packaging.
A new study found that higher baseline leptin and lower ghrelin plasma levels before dieting may predict weight regain in individuals. The research suggests that personalized weight-loss programs targeting appetite hormones could improve long-term success rates.
Researchers found that chest compressions first approach may be better in cases of long waits for EMS, with higher one-year survival rates and benefits for cardiac arrests with prolonged response times. The study suggests an emphasis should be placed on high-quality chest compressions.
A Texas A&M chemical engineer has discovered a way to achieve more effective separation of DNA fragments using a hydrogel substance. The findings provide a rational approach to designing gels that can harness specific effects, leading to enhanced analysis in various fields.
The University of Liverpool will coordinate an international research network, led by Professor Munir Pirmohamed, to investigate the role of genetic variation in drug-induced hypersensitivity reactions. This collaboration aims to identify genetic predisposing factors that can help predict susceptible patients and reduce the patient and...
A new study published in The Endocrine Society's Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism has found that high levels of the stress hormone cortisol are strongly associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular death among both healthy individuals and those with pre-existing cardiovascular disease. The study, which evaluated ov...
Researchers discovered a gene called Spatula that limits plant growth in cool temperatures, potentially helping develop crops for cold climates. By manipulating the gene, scientists aim to improve crop yields and food security in temperate regions.
VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland is developing image processing technology to analyze large amounts of video data and recognize potential risk situations. The new application can identify, locate and track abandoned luggage, allowing security authorities to take swift action.
Researchers at WashU Medicine have developed a new method to track brain development in children using functional MRI scans, which may shed light on psychological and developmental disorders. The approach uses mathematical analysis to identify abnormal brain function, enabling early detection and potential treatment.
Researchers suggest that detecting neutrinos and gravity waves can independently confirm the presence of dark matter in the sun. Current detectors, such as Borexino and SNO, will be able to measure the sun's core temperature with precision.
Researchers found that individuals can learn to control the activity of specific brain regions when receiving fMRI feedback signals. The study, published in Biological Psychiatry, used functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) to assess visual emotional stimuli and demonstrated the ability to modulate the response to aversive stimuli.
The special issue of Translational Research presents an in-depth view of stem cell research, considering its potential for therapy in various human diseases. Despite scientific and technical advancements, serious ethical concerns remain, including issues of privacy and consent.
Researchers have identified Csy4 as the enzyme responsible for producing CRISPR-derived RNAs, which target and silence invading viruses and plasmids. The discovery sheds light on how microbes use CRISPR to acquire immunity from future invasions.
The American Society of Agronomy has selected 2010 ASA Fellows, including experts in soil science, plant breeding, and water management. The class includes Cynthia Grant, Scott D. Haley, and Peter Kleinman, among others, who have made significant contributions to their fields.
A nationwide survey found that two-thirds of Americans believe synthetic biology should continue, but with more research on human and environmental impacts. The public also harbors concerns about security, moral, and health risks, as well as potential damage to the environment.
The VCU Medical Center is leading a national clinical trial of a portable, mechanical driver that can power patients' artificial hearts outside the hospital environment. The device allows stable patients to recuperate in their own homes until a donor heart becomes available for transplant.
A team from Case Western Reserve University has identified a novel dual recognition mechanism in Mycobacterium tuberculosis that may contribute to immune evasion. The discovery could aid in the design of new vaccines and antibiotics to combat the disease.
A new method devised by Carnegie Mellon researchers enables computers to gain a deeper understanding of an image by reasoning about physical constraints. The method uses virtual blocks to build a three-dimensional approximation of the scene, improving accuracy in estimating layout and surface details.
The International Serious Adverse Events Consortium (SAEC) will collaborate with Newcastle University to research the genetics of drug-induced liver injury. The collaboration aims to develop larger and more diverse collections of subjects to better understand the genetic effects contributing to these diseases.
Researchers will use genome sequencing and equipment to profile small RNA expression in plants, aiming to improve biomass yields and quality for bioenergy production. The project focuses on Miscanthus and other grasses with high potential biomass yields.
The book provides a historical overview of the American Society of Agronomy's role in shaping global agricultural practices. It also delves into future trends and challenges, including changing diets, biofuels, and under-investment in research, to ensure a sustainable food system for the coming century.
Scientists have discovered a strategy to prevent Alzheimer's-associated traffic jams in the brain by reducing tau protein levels. By blocking amyloid beta proteins, which disrupt transport of vital cargoes between brain cells, researchers found that tau reduction effectively prevents such traffic jams.
A new study by Syracuse University researchers reveals that the lack of FSC-certified sawmills and wood in New York state is causing a bottleneck for green construction. As a result, builders are forced to purchase FSC-certified wood outside of the state at a premium price.
The American Society of Agronomy announces award recipients for their exceptional work in education, national and international service, and research. The awards honor individuals who have made significant contributions to the field of agronomy.
This special edition of The Hastings Center Report examines the promise and pitfalls of personalized medicine, from direct-to-consumer genetic testing to hospice care. Key findings include the need for thousands of human biospecimens for genetic studies, as well as debates over individual mandates in healthcare reform.
Researchers found that early cotton planting boosts yield only with irrigation. In non-irrigated plots, early planting resulted in decreased production, even experiencing a 13% decline in yield one year.
Researchers investigated familial prosopagnosia, a condition where individuals have trouble recognizing faces. The study found that changes in lighting conditions and viewing angles affected their ability to recognize faces, suggesting an inability to form robust mental representations of faces.
A team of researchers from Mayo Clinic used electronic medical records (EMRs) to launch a genome-wide association study of peripheral arterial disease (PAD), which affects approximately eight million Americans. The study demonstrates the feasibility of leveraging EMRs for genetic research, offering advantages over traditional approaches.
Scientists at NPL have developed a new strategy for quicker and more precise detection of biomarkers, proteins indicating disease. This approach uses a probe to 'fish' for likely proteins in crowded blood samples, potentially leading to earlier diagnosis and treatment of Alzheimer's and cancer.
Researchers have identified bilirubin as the primary aril pigment in Strelitzia reginae, the Bird of Paradise plant. This discovery expands our understanding of color production in plants and has potential applications for breeding and genetics.
Researchers have identified two genes, ARID1A and PPP2R1A, whose mutations are linked to ovarian clear cell carcinoma, a highly aggressive form of ovarian cancer. The study found that ARID1A mutations were present in over half of the tumors studied, suggesting a significant role in this type of cancer.
In France, nearly half of new HIV infections occur among men who have sex with men, accounting for 48% of new cases in 2008. Incidence is 200 times higher than in the French heterosexual population.
Brown University researchers have discovered the structure of three types of proteins that don't have a fixed shape, revealing how they interact with other proteins to regulate important biological processes. The findings provide new insights into the complex mechanisms underlying these proteins' functions.
Researchers at Notre Dame are developing and assessing image-based biometrics technologies using twins, including facial and iris recognition. They found that human observers can correctly classify pairs of twins with 80% accuracy, suggesting new possibilities for automated iris analysis.
Researchers at Vetmeduni Vienna identified a novel mechanism by which Mycoplasma agalactiae switches its surface protein genes. The so-called phase variation is caused by alterations in short DNA sequences controlled by an enzyme called recombinase. This process enables the organism to avoid host defense mechanisms during infection.
A new Pacific Institute report identifies key actions for California to conserve a million acre-feet of water through improved efficiency in the urban and agricultural sectors. The analysis finds that upfront investments of less than $1.9 billion can yield significant savings, while also conserving energy and reducing costs.
Researchers found that adding primaquine to fixed-dose artemisinin combination treatments significantly reduces gametocyte carriage, a key factor in malaria transmission. The artesunate-mefloquine regimen showed the highest cure rate and lowest rates of reinfection.
A University of Georgia study identifies a critical enzyme called MEC-17 that regulates microtubule acetylation in the nervous system. The finding could lead to new treatments for neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's, which have altered levels of acetylation marks on microtubules.
Researchers have identified a new gene required for memory formation in Drosophila, which may have similar functions in humans. The discovery sheds light on neurological disorders such as Alzheimer's disease and could lead to new insights into cognitive enhancement.
Researchers used Landsat data to map areas hardest hit by mountain pine beetles and found that large fires do not appear to occur more often or with greater severity. Beetle-killed forest swaths may actually be less likely to burn due to the breakdown of flammable volatile oils, and standing dead tree trunks can act as natural fire logs.
Researchers have identified a gene mutation that confers resistance to the antibiotic clindamycin in malaria parasites. The findings suggest that current diagnostic tests may be inadequate and highlight the need for new treatment strategies. This study contributes to our understanding of the genetic basis of drug resistance in malaria.
A study found that quercetin and ferulic acid aggravated kidney cancer in severely diabetic laboratory rats, raising concerns about their safety. The researchers recommend reevaluating the safety of plant-based antioxidants until further evidence is available.
A new PhysiScore system developed by Stanford researchers can accurately predict the health of premature infants with a high degree of accuracy, potentially reducing healthcare costs. The system uses real-time data and machine learning algorithms to identify subtle patterns in the complex data about these young patients.
The United Nations' Food and Agriculture Organization has launched a new online fire detection system using NASA satellite data, providing daily fire maps and images. The system enables firefighters to respond more efficiently and reduces the risk of wildfires and associated pollutants.