A team at Washington University in St. Louis has identified a link between white-tailed deer populations and emerging tick-borne diseases, including human ehrlichiosis and southern tick-associated rash illness (STARI). The study used a sophisticated DNA assay to track the transmission of pathogens from wildlife to ticks.
A team of UW-Madison engineers has developed a highly efficient process that converts gamma-valerolactone into the chemical equivalent of jet fuel, preserving about 95% of the energy from biomass. The process requires little hydrogen input and captures carbon dioxide for future use.
Researchers found that when bacteria evolved defences against viral infections, the viruses adapted at a quicker rate and generated greater diversity. This study supports the 'Red Queen Hypothesis', which suggests that species are in a constant race for survival and must continue to evolve new ways of defending themselves.
A joint study by American and Kazakhstani scientists reveals that reducing adult mortality is key to recovering beluga sturgeon populations. The study suggests that limiting the take of adult and subadult sturgeon will contribute more to population growth than hatchery supplementation.
A study of over 226,000 trees reveals that species respond differently to environmental fluctuations, contrary to previous findings. This discovery sheds light on the coexistence of competing tree species and has implications for understanding invasive species invasions.
Researchers at UCLA have created a new graphene nanostructure called graphene nanomesh (GNM), which can open up a band gap in graphene and create a highly uniform, continuous semiconducting thin film. This breakthrough has the potential to enable practical application of graphene as a semiconductor material for future electronics.
A randomized trial found that remote ischemic conditioning with repeated blood pressure cuff inflations reduced heart tissue damage in AMI patients by 30%, with benefits increasing to 50% for those with most threatened heart tissue. Improved heart function and potential applications beyond AMI were reported.
Researchers at the University of Colorado Boulder have discovered a novel approach to studying Hemophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis (HLH), a rare and deadly inflammatory disease. Mice infected with Salmonella bacteria developed symptoms consistent with human secondary HLH, including fever, anemia, and neurological signs.
Monash University scientists have developed a novel cotton-thread based microfluidic device capable of detecting diseases such as kidney failure and diabetes at an affordable cost. The device is the size of a postage stamp and can be produced using simple equipment like sewing machines.
Researchers found that CS-8958 resulted in higher survival rates and lower virus levels than oseltamivir in mouse models. The novel compound also protected mice from lethal H5N1 infection when given before or after exposure to the virus.
A study identifies five genes associated with early tooth development, finding that children with certain genetic variants tend to have delayed teeth and fewer teeth by age one. These children are also more likely to need orthodontic treatment as adults.
Researchers have developed a new nanoscale scanning technique that provides unprecedented insight into the surface of individual heart muscle cells in minute detail. The findings may lead to better-designed beta-blockers and improved therapeutic approaches for treating heart failure and abnormal heart rhythms.
A study found that contralateral prophylactic mastectomy is associated with improved 5-year breast cancer-specific survival rates for younger women with early-stage, estrogen-receptor negative tumors. However, the benefit is small and does not apply to most women with breast cancer.
Ed Lee, Air Force Office of Scientific Research's HBCU Program Manager, received a Trailblazer Award for his work in STEM education. His efforts have had a direct impact on the educational community, promoting innovation and open doors for others.
Researchers found that exergames significantly improved mood and mental health-related quality of life in older adults with subsyndromal depression. The study suggests encouraging results from using video games to improve symptoms, with over one-third of participants experiencing a 50-percent or greater reduction of depressive symptoms.
Researchers have developed a nanotechnology approach that allows for targeted and simultaneous delivery of cancer-killing drugs and genetic drugs to prevent resistance. The treatment shows promise in eliminating side effects associated with chemotherapy.
Dr Clare Scott and Dr Marnie Blewitt have been awarded fellowships worth AU$1.75 million to focus on lymphoma and breast cancer, respectively. Their research aims to improve outcomes for cancer patients by harnessing the body's natural killing machinery.
In a study of 1,056 severe stroke patients, researchers found that intracranial stenting and intra-arterial tPA were effective in restoring blood flow, with success rates of 76% and 72%, respectively. Other treatment techniques showed lower restoration rates.
A new study by Johns Hopkins scientists found that Notch-blocking drugs can kill brain cancer stem cells in mice, with a 70% reduction rate. However, further experiments suggested that additional therapies or increased dosage of Notch-blocking drugs may be necessary to target all cancer stem cells.
A single layer of cells controls leaf size, with epidermal cells influencing overall size and cell division rates. Epidermal cells also affect the number of cells produced in the mesophyll layer.
A study by the University of Exeter and Liverpool found that polyandry, where females have multiple mates, reduces the risk of populations becoming extinct. This is because all-female broods are less likely to occur due to the suppression of the SR chromosome, which can lead to population decline.
Researchers at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute developed a new computer model using mathematics to predict how environmental, medical, and physical changes affect sleep. The model provides clues to the basic dynamics of the sleep-wake cycle, offering a non-invasive way to study the brain and sleep.
Researchers have identified genomic regions that enabled an ocean-dwelling fish to adapt to freshwater environments in several independently evolved populations. The study, combining new technologies, found similar gene regions across different lakes and populations.
The NIH Common Fund has announced seven new scientific initiatives to tackle the toughest health problems facing the nation and the world. The programs focus on emerging science and technology advances in areas such as stem cells, protein capture, and global health.
BPA exposure during pregnancy leads to epigenetic changes causing permanent reproductive issues in females, including fertility problems and hormone-related cancers. The study also suggests that early exposure can genetically program the uterus to be hyper-responsive to estrogen.
Researchers propose that MeCP2 affects the entire genome in neurons, leading to increased histone acetylation and spurious transcription of 'junk DNA'. This discovery challenges the previous view of MeCP2 as a target-specific transcription factor.
Brookhaven National Laboratory scientists have created a super nonstick surface that repels water due to the presence of nanobubbles. The surface was made by creating a regular array of nano-cavities on an otherwise flat surface, which traps tiny air bubbles and prevents water from wetting it.
Scientists are using infrasound to monitor volcanoes in the Northern Mariana Islands, a U.S. commonwealth, for early warning of eruptions that could threaten passenger airlines and cargo ships. The technology aims to discriminate between different eruptive styles, improving alert systems for volcanic ash clouds.
Researchers at Ohio State University have developed a rapid and accurate method to genotype single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) that affect warfarin dose, enabling personalized treatment for patients. This new approach has the potential to improve patient outcomes and reduce adverse effects associated with warfarin therapy.
Researchers at Princeton University have made a breakthrough in quantum physics, discovering an equation that allows computers to model the properties of materials up to 100,000 times faster than previously possible. This new formula enables scientists to study the flaws in materials more effectively, leading to potential advancements ...
Researchers at Georgia Tech studied sea turtle hatchlings' movement on sand, revealing they adapt by digging into the ground with their flippers. The turtles can reach high speeds on both hard and loose sand, with their movements controlled by balancing speed with stability.
A study found that 79% of dialysis patients were vitamin D deficient, with black race, female sex, and winter season being strong predictors. Low blood albumin levels may lead to protein loss in the urine, affecting vitamin D transport.
A nationwide Swedish study found no increased risk of suicide among men diagnosed with early nonpalpable prostate cancer detected by PSA testing. However, those with locally advanced or metastatic disease faced a twice-higher suicide rate compared to the general male population.
Researchers found a single dose of CS-8958 administered two hours after infection resulted in higher survival rates and lower virus levels compared to standard oseltamivir treatment. The compound also protected mice against lethal H5N1 infection when given seven days before infection.
Research found fluoxetine (Prozac) and citalopram (Celexa) significantly inhibited disease progression of collagen-induced arthritis in mice. The study suggests potential drug development opportunities for arthritic conditions like rheumatoid arthritis.
Researchers found that single-dose nevirapine can trigger resistance to AIDS-drug cocktail, but this resistance fades after 12 months. Women who need treatment within a year of using nevirapine for HIV prevention can use standard ART regimens.
The AcademyHealth Minority Scholars Program offers scholarships, methods training, and mentoring to underrepresented minorities in the field of health services research (HSR) and disparities research. The program aims to build a pipeline of disparities researchers to address health care access, cost, and quality issues.
The National Institutes of Health panel concludes that eliminating dairy from the diet due to lactose intolerance may impact diet and health. People with lactose intolerance can tolerate at least 12 grams of lactose with no or minor symptoms, and gradually reintroducing dairy into their diet can help manage symptoms.
Researchers found that damselfish can distinguish between different species using only their ultraviolet facial patterns. The fish's ability to see in the UV range allows them to convey information about their identity and attract mates, while remaining inconspicuous to predators.
Research by Adam Waytz et al. reveals that anthropomorphism gives non-human entities moral care, while dehumanization is linked to social connection. The study highlights the complexities of identifying humans in a psychological sense.
A large population-based study found that contralateral prophylactic mastectomy (CPM) offers a survival benefit to a select group of breast cancer patients, primarily those under 50 years old and ER-negative. The procedure was associated with a 4.8% increased survival rate at five years for these patients.
A new study published in The Lancet and The Lancet Neurology found that carotid stenting is not as effective as standard surgery in preventing stroke or as safe in the short-term. Surgery was shown to almost halve the risk of stroke and death within 30 days after treatment, compared to stenting.
A new study has found that current biomarkers des-gamma-carboxy prothrombin (DCP) and alpha fetoprotein (AFP) are not optimal for early detection of liver cancer. The study suggests that combining both markers can increase sensitivity but decrease specificity, indicating a need for further investigation.
A new study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that initiating antiretroviral therapy during tuberculosis treatment significantly reduces mortality rates for co-infected patients. The trial, which involved 642 patients, showed a 56% reduction in mortality rates compared to those who received sequential therapy.
Research confirms that brain areas for noun and verb processing are distinct, with nouns primarily activating the left fusiform gyrus and verbs activating other regions like the left inferior frontal gyrus. The study used functional magnetic resonance imaging to show neural differences in learning new nouns and verbs.
A psychologist's study found that individuals are more accurate in assessing internal traits like anxiety but less so for external traits like intelligence. Friends are better barometers of intellect-related traits, while strangers can spot extroversion. The self has difficulty judging evaluative traits due to perceived stakes.
A study of Rwandan genocide survivors found that genetic variations in the catechol-O-methyltransferase (COMT) gene affect PTSD risk. Survivors with certain genetic markers showed increased resilience to stress-related problems, while others were more vulnerable. The findings provide new insights into the complex relationship between t...
Researchers found that SLE patients with high disease activity have higher levels of anti-Apo A-I, anti-HDL, and anti-CRP antibodies, contributing to the development of atherosclerosis. This association may place SLE patients at risk for cardiovascular disease.
A new study from the University of Miami finds that maternal sensitivity is a key predictor of language development in toddlers with autism. The researchers discovered that sensitive structuring, which involves teaching and engaging children in a gentle manner, was more predictive of language growth among children developing autism tha...
A report from the Association of University Research Parks recommends 10-point plan to streamline federal policies for tech commercialization, aiming to create jobs and businesses. The plan includes targeted investments, flexible grant policies, and connections with private sector.
Research using MRI reveals that childhood stress and abuse can lead to permanent brain structure changes, making individuals more susceptible to developing depression. The study's findings have significant implications for early intervention and prevention strategies.
Researchers have developed two potential drug candidates that block cancer-promoting pathways in novel ways. The peptides offer a new approach to interfere with the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and vascular endothelial growth factor receptor (VEGFR) pathways.
Monash University scientists have identified a new way to treat castrate-resistant prostate cancer cells using estrogen receptors. The study shows that activating these receptors can cause cell death in patients with advanced prostate cancer.
A University of Hawaii at Manoa research team has identified two distinct ocean temperature patterns that will impact regional climates, leading to increased or decreased rainfall in various regions. The findings suggest that certain areas may experience dramatic shifts in precipitation patterns, with potential consequences for global ...
Researchers will present their findings on the latest dark matter detection experiments and detectors, shedding light on one of science's last great frontiers. The UCLA symposium aims to advance our understanding of dark matter, a mysterious substance thought to make up almost 25% of the universe.
The study aims to understand how changing climate affects phytoplankton growth and organic carbon distributions. Researchers will collect data on sea surface temperatures, salinities and chlorophyll levels to refine biogeochemistry models.
A team of researchers, including MSU geologist David Mogk, won a national award for their web site 'On the Cutting Edge', which promotes sharing scientific content and teaching methods. The site offers over 4,000 pages of educational resources, attracting 550,000 visitors in 2008.
Researchers at UCLA successfully removed CCR5 receptor, which HIV binds to, from human immune cells using a gene-based approach. This strategy shows promise for treating HIV-infected individuals by reducing the virus's ability to infect cells.
A seven-year study found that Medicare reimbursement led to higher nursing home admissions and shorter hospital stays compared to VA facilities. However, death rates were similar for veterans with hip fractures treated under either system.
Proton beam radiation therapy has been shown to provide encouraging results for patients with locally advanced sinonasal malignancies, with high local control rates at five and eight years after treatment. The study found no significant difference in local control rates based on histological subtype, T stage, or prior surgery.
A study found that dialysis patients with high fatigue scores are more than twice as likely to have cardiovascular events, such as a heart attack or stroke. Fatigue was the strongest predictor of cardiovascular risk, even in patients without known risk factors.
Researchers at the University of Rochester Medical Center have created a new way to measure the activity of a molecule involved in ischemic preconditioning, which strengthens cardiac tissues after a heart attack. The discovery could lead to the development of a new medication or treatment to help patients better resist heart damage.
Researchers found that lacosamide 400 mg/day provides good efficacy and tolerability for patients with uncontrolled partial-onset seizures, while higher doses may provide additional benefits. The study confirms the safety and effectiveness of adjunctive lacosamide treatment in reducing seizure frequency and severity.
Two studies found that anomalies in the DISC1 gene and its interaction with Kal-7 protein disrupt dendritic spine formation, leading to weaker connections between neurons. This abnormal connectivity is thought to contribute to the onset of schizophrenia symptoms in young adulthood.
A study found that virtual reality gaming using the Wii system improves motor function in stroke patients, with significant speed and grip strength gains. The Wii technology activated mirror neurons involved in brain plasticity, enabling effective rehabilitation.
Researchers have developed a generic means for depositing many nanocomposites on multiple surfaces with nanoscale precision using atomic force microscopy probes. The technique simplifies nanocomposite deposition and enables the direct writing of highly complex structures, including rows of nanoparticles less than 10 nm wide.
A new study published in Conflict Management and Peace Science suggests that peace is a vital ingredient for trade to flourish, rather than trade leading to peaceful relations. The authors found that conflict reduces trade and that ignoring this relationship can produce biased estimates.
A study published in Arthritis Care & Research found that obesity and physical inactivity contribute to a higher prevalence of arthritis and activity limitations in the US compared to Canada. Women are particularly vulnerable, with a higher incidence of arthritis and activity limitations in both countries.
A study finds that fetuses exposed to high levels of stress hormone cortisol may have trouble paying attention or solving problems later on. However, if mothers provide sensitive care during infancy and toddlerhood, the negative link disappears almost entirely.
A recent study found that larynx preservation treatments using chemotherapy followed by radiation have a low-risk of severe voice disability, with only 15% of patients experiencing severe vocal impairment. The treatment also resulted in minimal eating or swallowing problems, with 57% of patients unaffected.
Researchers have fabricated a near-frictionless diamond material that is 3,000 times more wear-resistant at the nanoscale than silicon. This discovery has significant implications for atomic imaging, probe-based data storage, and emerging applications like nanolithography and nanometrology.
A study found that pretreatment SUVmax is a strong predictor of disease-specific survival, overall survival, and disease-free survival in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma patients. Higher SUV-LN was associated with distant metastasis, suggesting more aggressive treatment approaches may be needed.
A multi-institutional randomized phase III trial analyzed 721 patients with stage III-IV carcinoma of the oral cavity oropharynx hypopharynx or larynx. The study found accelerated radiation therapy reduced chemotherapy toxicity, similar disease-free and local-regional failure rates compared to standard radiation.
A Northwestern University professor explores making public policy with limited information, recommending the elimination of inferior options and application of decision criteria to avoid poor outcomes in issues like global warming and vaccination policies.