Research finds that ozone and primary pollutants from traffic increase pediatric emergency department visits for asthma exacerbations. Low ozone concentrations as low as 30 ppb also show a dose-response relationship with increased hospitalizations.
The study provides genomic information that suggests possible intervention targets for further experimental investigation. The genome sequences of the two new bacterial strains will help researchers zero in on the molecular basis of citrus canker, shedding light on why one strain is more virulent than its counterparts.
Researchers used electronic medical records to coordinate care for marathon participants, finding benefits include real-time patient data sharing and improved preparation for future events. The study also showed potential for identifying trends in injury patterns.
A national survey found that nearly four in 10 Americans who want to repeal the law also support its core provisions, including insurance mandates. The public option was surprisingly popular, with 59% of respondents supporting it when framed as a choice between government and private health insurance.
A new study by Tel Aviv University researchers reveals that pollution can significantly alter thunderstorm intensity, leading to changes in local weather patterns and rainfall. The study used lightning patterns as a quantitative measure of the impact of air pollution on cloud development over large areas.
A Johns Hopkins study suggests that a commonly used bypass surgery technique may impair the brain's ability to regulate blood flow, increasing the risk of stroke. Researchers found that seven patients experienced strokes after cooling and rewarming, highlighting the need for improved monitoring to prevent such incidents.
Researchers at Scripps Research and GNF identify a region of TRPV1 protein that enables temperature sensitivity, shedding light on how temperature receptors work in the human body. The findings could lead to new therapies for conditions such as inflammatory pain.
Researchers identified 158 human genes targeted by herpesvirus miRNAs, which regulate host gene expression and evade the immune system. The study provides insights into viral miRNA functions and suggests potential targets for innovative antiviral agents.
Researchers found that variations in STX1A expression account for 15.6% of cognitive variation in WS patients, a high level of confidence compared to prior genetic studies.
A team of experts has embarked on a groundbreaking project to develop sustainable aviation fuels in Australia and New Zealand. The Sustainable Aviation Fuels Road Map aims to accelerate the development of bio-derived jet fuels that can significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions from the aviation sector.
Research found that extremely preterm infants have abnormal lung function and are twice as likely to have asthma. Lung function impairment persists into middle childhood, especially those with bronchopulmonary dysplasia. Early monitoring and treatment can minimize long-term respiratory problems.
CSIRO researchers have developed a salt-tolerant durum wheat that yields 25% more grain than the parent variety in saline soils. This breakthrough will enable wheat farmers to achieve higher yields of durum wheat in salty areas.
A Florida State University study suggests that teacher quality has a direct impact on students' reading achievement, with better teachers allowing children to reach their optimal learning trajectory. The research used data from identical and fraternal twins to estimate the genetic and environmental influences on reading variability.
Richard Goldstein, a professor at Boston University School of Medicine, has been awarded an Individual Biomedical Research Award for his project on developing a vaccine against Streptococcus pneumoniae. The proposed vaccine targets highly conserved surface proteins across all pneumococcal strains.
A recent review found that approximately 25% of breast cancers and 60% of prostate cancers detected by screening tests may not be destined to cause symptoms or death due to overdiagnosis. This phenomenon leads to unnecessary treatment and other harms, emphasizing the need for strategies to address it.
The EAU Congress ended its 25th anniversary meeting in Barcelona with awards for outstanding research in urology. Despite volcanic eruptions disrupting travel plans, the congress proceeded and recognized excellence in cancer and non-cancer research.
Joël Bellaïche has been awarded the American Mathematical Society's (AMS) Centennial Fellowship, a prestigious award recognizing his excellence in mathematical research. The fellowship provides a stipend of $77,000 and an expense allowance, allowing him to pursue his research interests in the Birch and Swinnerton-Dyer conjecture.
The UCLA engineer has created a miniature microscope, the world's smallest and lightest for telemedicine applications. The lensless microscope can deliver health care in resource-limited settings by analyzing blood samples or fluids instantly.
Researchers found that vaccinated birds can shed vaccine virus to infect other birds, and live vaccines do not always protect against infection from other viral strains. The use of modified live virus vaccines may be increasing the diversity of Newcastle Disease viruses circulating in wild birds.
The American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology will present 10 scientists with various awards for their outstanding contributions to the field. This year's awardees include Phillip Sharp, Sarah Keller, David Russell, James Wells, John Tesmer, Lisa Gentile, Susan S. Taylor, Douglas Rees, and Ruedi Aebersold.
Researchers have linked diabetes to a 40% greater risk of developing atrial fibrillation, with the risk rising for longer duration of diabetes and less controlled blood sugar levels.
Scientists used DNA barcoding to identify 25% of 'cod' and 'haddock' samples as genetically different species, highlighting a need for transparency in the seafood industry. The study found that smoked fish samples were incorrectly labeled at an 82.4% rate, with some species masquerading as cod or haddock.
A new study published in The Lancet found that injected liraglutide is more effective than oral sitagliptin at controlling blood glucose levels in people with type 2 diabetes who have inadequate control on standard treatment metformin. Liraglutide was well tolerated with minimal risk of hypoglycaemia.
A recent study by the Oregon Health & Science University Knight Cancer Institute found that up to 49% of physicians interpreting screening mammograms could benefit from additional training. The study identified criteria for low-performance measures, targeting ranges of accuracy and potential overuse of tests.
Researchers found 7.3% of children aged 0-18 years in the UK are reported as being disabled, leading to higher levels of poverty and personal disadvantage. Families with disabled children experience reduced career progression and increased financial burdens due to caregiving responsibilities.
A Caltech-led team has engineered a simple yet versatile material that bends light in the 'wrong' direction, making it ideal for efficient light collection in solar cells. The novel negative-index metamaterial can handle light with any polarization over a broad range of incident angles.
A recent study found that family caregivers with dementia experience a wide range of stressors, including behavior issues and financial strain. While existing interventions focus on specific stressors, research suggests that a one-size-fits-all approach is insufficient, highlighting the need for personalized interventions.
Scientists at TUM developed a novel biosensor chip that can detect specific proteins with high sensitivity, enabling early disease diagnosis. The chip can analyze multiple parameters, including protein concentration and alterations caused by diseases or medications.
Researchers identify a mechanism to turn developmental genes on and off as an embryo matures, involving the SUMO/SENP2 system. The study provides new insights into epigenetic control and its role in development, cancer, and neurological diseases.
Researchers at King's College London have discovered a new biochemical test that can accurately diagnose osteoarthritis earlier than existing methods. The test measures 163 chemical signals in a single blood sample and has been shown to be highly effective in identifying metabolite ratios associated with the condition.
Researchers from UBC have developed a mathematical model that unravels the generation of biological diversity within and between species. The model suggests that multiple traits acting in concert can generate diversity even with weak interactions, mirroring the complexity of reality.
A new technique combining gentle tapping and emotional focus has been shown to significantly reduce food cravings in people who are overweight or obese. After just four two-hour sessions, participants experienced a long-lasting reduction in cravings, with some even forgetting their previous struggles.
Research reveals that pathogenic strains of Group B Streptococcus (GBS) cause urinary tract infections by binding to bladder cells and triggering high levels of interleukin, an inflammatory cytokine. GBS infection may be more common than previously thought due to lack of clear risk factors.
Researchers found that human brains, nematode worms and computer chips have a Russian doll-like architecture and exhibit Rentian scaling. This discovery challenges the notion that the human brain is unique and highlights the importance of studying simple organisms like the worm to gain insights into our own evolution.
A four-year grant supports the development of updated growth charts based on data from 600 children with Down syndrome. The charts will better represent growth patterns and body mass index changes, enabling healthcare professionals to plan treatment and design preventive health programs.
A new decades-long study will investigate the health impacts of mobile phone use on at least 250,000 participants in five European countries. The COSMOS study aims to identify any possible health effects from long-term mobile phone use and will monitor participants' health for up to 30 years.
Scientists have characterized a general mechanism that controls transcription elongation in bacteria, revealing the active ribosome's role in adjusting transcriptional yield. This finding could lead to novel ways to interfere with bacterial gene expression and develop new antimicrobial therapies.
Researchers at Boyce Thompson Institute have discovered a complex sequence of events that create distinction between protoxylem and metaxylem cells. MicroRNA 165/6 moves out from its source cells to dissolve target messenger RNAs, leading to specific cell types developing in plants.
Researchers have captured the 3D atomic models of a single transporter protein in its three main structural states, revealing the 'alternating access' mechanism. This discovery offers a detailed understanding of the function of essential chemicals entering cells and creates opportunities for developing new drugs.
The study reveals the crystal structures of two key fluorescent proteins, blue and red, allowing for rational design of new proteins with specific colors. This breakthrough enables researchers to explore biological processes in normal cells versus cancer cells.
A study published in Experimental Biology and Medicine reports the discovery of periodic heart rate decelerations in premature human infants. The researchers developed a mathematical model based on Hopf bifurcation theory to describe the dynamics of these decelerations, which are statistically correlated with impending sepsis in neonates.
Tropical Cyclone 24S has strengthened to tropical storm strength with maximum sustained winds near 35 knots, located 570 nautical miles north of Learmonth, Australia. TRMM's rainfall rates indicate areas of light to moderate rainfall, with the storm forecast to intensify before weakening due to increased wind shear.
The global biofuel drive poses a significant risk of eviction for African farmers as their lands are allocated for crop cultivation. Research highlights the need to consider the impact on food security, particularly in countries where food is scarce already.
A special issue of the Journal of Vocational Rehabilitation focuses on the potential of autistic young adults, highlighting their ability to form relationships and enjoy employment benefits. Researchers provide case studies and programs to support practitioners in working with this population.
A newly discovered strain of virulent airborne fungi has caused several deaths in Oregon and is expected to spread to California and other areas. The fungal disease, Cryptococcus gattii, typically affects transplant recipients and HIV-infected patients, but the new strain appears to be a threat to otherwise healthy individuals.
The Seismological Society of America presents on earthquake forecasting, quantifying seismic event likelihood to provide communities with information about seismic hazards. The session also explores near-surface deformation associated with active faults and debates in earthquake science.
A new antimalarial combination therapy, pyronaridine-artesunate, has been shown to be as effective as the current gold standard treatment, artemether-lumefantrine, but requires only once-daily dosing. The study found high clinical and parasitological response rates and rapid parasite clearance in patients with uncomplicated malaria.
Researchers found that antibodies from HIV-infected Africans bind to LPS, blocking protective 'killing' antibodies. Removing these antibodies allows for effective killing of Salmonella bacteria. The study identifies potential alternative vaccine targets in outer membrane proteins.
Researchers at the Genome Institute of Singapore have developed a zebrafish model to study Parkinson's disease, which can aid in drug development and screening. The model demonstrates that zebrafish can be used to study human diseases, including PD, and has potential for large-scale drug screening.
The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) has unveiled a new treatment program for young adults struggling with opioid addiction. The Buprenorphine Treatment for Young Adults product shows that longer-term buprenorphine treatment reduces drug use and improves treatment adherence in this age group.
A new study of tree rings provides the most detailed record yet of at least four epic droughts that have shaken Asia over the last thousand years. The research reveals the role of climate in historical events, such as the fall of China's Ming Dynasty and the collapse of kingdoms in Vietnam, Myanmar, and Thailand.
Researchers uncover pathway critical for embryological development in zebra fish, revealing parallel mechanism driving vertebrate brain wiring. The fragile-X protein complex interacts with PAK1, a key player in synapse development.
A recent investigation found that 125 out of 940 completed clinical trials for acute ischemic stroke were not published in full, with some trials involving fewer than 10 patients. The study highlights the importance of publishing trial results to ensure patient safety and inform clinical practice.
The University of Oklahoma National Weather Center has opened its Experimental Green Roof to the public, featuring a 1,280 square-foot system that intercepts solar radiation and reduces stormwater runoff. The project aims to improve energy efficiency, water quality, and urban development in Oklahoma.
Researchers analyzed genetic evidence from 139 killer whales and found clear differences among species in the Antarctic and North Pacific. The study suggests that two types of killer whales are separate species, with additional analysis needed to confirm other possible species.
A new blood test has reduced the number of biopsies performed on heart transplant patients by 50% in a landmark Stanford study. The test uses genomics technology to identify patients at low risk for rejection, allowing doctors to safely reduce biopsy frequency and improve patient quality of life.
Researchers from Louisiana Tech University are presenting their work on smart nanofilms for regenerative medicine at the 2010 Experimental Biology meeting. Their presentation highlights the first known application of a smart nanofilm sprayed directly on living tissue, showing promising results in wound healing and potential application...
Obese pregnant women who gain too little or lose weight during pregnancy may be at increased risk of preterm births and restricted infant growth. The new study recommends tailored weight gain ranges based on the woman's BMI category, with more lenient limits for severely obese women.
Researchers at the University of Missouri have developed a new cancer detection and treatment method using nanoparticles that target specific receptors on tumor cells. The gold nanoparticles can be targeted to prostate, breast, or lung cancer cells, providing valuable imaging and therapeutic tools for early cancer detection and therapy.
The University of Iowa Superfund Research Program has received a five-year, $16 million grant to investigate the health impacts of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) in water, soil, and air. The program will also explore novel clean-up methods using plants.
A study by Henry Ford Hospital found that heart failure patients developing kidney failure after LVAD surgery experience significantly decreased survival rates and prolonged hospitalizations. The researchers suggest improving patient selection and reducing cardio-pulmonary bypass time to mitigate the risk of kidney failure.
Researchers found little evidence for geographical separation driving hamlet color variations, instead suggesting ecological factors like competition for food and habitat may influence co-existence. The study provides insights into the evolutionary process of new species arising.
The University of Michigan researchers have developed a pressure-cooking method to create better biofuels from algae, speeding up the crude-oil-making process from millennia to minutes. This new method eliminates the need for drying and extracting oil, making it more efficient and cost-effective.
The American Educational Research Association (AERA) is showcasing the international scope of education research at its annual meeting, focusing on China and global collaboration. The event features a special session on educational innovation in China and the US, as well as presentations on multilingualism and intercultural communication.
Middle school students may struggle to understand science texts due to lack of academic language skills, but Word Generation program provides tools for teachers to guide them. The program teaches systematic vocabulary development and nuanced understanding of complex scientific concepts.
A team led by University of Wisconsin-Madison chemist Song Jin shows that a screw dislocation drives the growth of hollow zinc oxide nanotubes. The finding provides new insight into the processes guiding the formation of smallest manufactured structures, a significant challenge in nanoscience and nanotechnology.
Researchers at University of Nottingham launch £1.2 million project to improve 'quit smoking' services for smokers with severe mental illness. The program aims to address the historical culture of tolerance of smoking in mental health settings, where tobacco use is deeply embedded and often condoned by clinicians and staff.
Dreams play a crucial role in memory consolidation by integrating recent experiences to improve short-term and long-term learning skills. The study found that subjects who dreamed about the task showed significant improvement, indicating that dreams are the brain's way of processing and understanding new information.
The Lancet Editorial calls for increased public commitment to combat malaria, citing a 20-year development timeline and £500 million investment. A broader public-private partnership is needed to support the development of an effective vaccine, with $20 billion pledged by Bill Gates.
A collaborative effort has resulted in a comprehensive Primate Life History Database containing life history data from long-term field studies of seven species of lemurs, monkeys, and apes. The database facilitates comparative analyses of primate evolution and ecology.
Researchers at University of Michigan created a microfluidic integrated circuit that regulates fluid flow without external instructions. This innovation aims to simplify lab-on-a-chip devices and enable instant home diagnostic tests for various illnesses and contaminants.
A new calculator program helps farmers estimate crop yields and irrigation needs in semi-arid regions. The MultiCalculator CD uses three simple Excel spreadsheets to predict non-irrigated crop yields and estimate irrigation water needs, considering factors such as soil type, precipitation, and crop selection.
Researchers found that rainfall affects sex ratios in African buffalo, with more males born during rainy seasons. The study suggests the presence of sex ratio genes influencing semen quality and female-biased sex ratios during dry periods.