A team of physicists from Bristol, Glasgow and Southampton universities have successfully created knots in optical vortices using holograms designed with knot theory. This new research demonstrates the physical application of an abstract branch of mathematics previously considered impossible to apply.
A team of scientists has discovered a new link between a common form of inherited blindness and the AHI1 gene. They found that patients carrying a specific genetic alteration were more likely to have retinal blindness, and some forms may be treatable with gene therapy.
Researchers at Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center have developed a method to expand stem/progenitor cells from cord blood units, resulting in successful treatment of high-risk leukemia. The expanded cells can rapidly give rise to white blood cells and other components of the blood system.
Two teams of Iowa State researchers will study biodiesel production from algae and thermochemical conversion of biomass to fuels. The grants aim to accelerate the development of clean energy sources and reduce dependence on foreign oil.
Researchers at Loyola Medicine found that sun damage silences protein kinase C gene, allowing cancerous cells to grow and divide unchecked. The study could lead to development of new drugs to shrink tumors.
A new clinical trial at UC Davis aims to test a neuroprotective drug called allopregnanolone on patients with severe traumatic brain injuries. The goal is to reduce brain damage, post-traumatic epileptic seizures, and improve patients' quality of life.
A new study found that fluctuating water chemistry and temperature variations in freshwater lakes can actually increase biodiversity, while a stable but variable environment can also be detrimental. Zooplankton populations respond quickly to changes due to their fast reproduction rate.
The Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) has been recognized for its partnerships with outside companies to develop new technologies. The lab's partnership with Pressure BioSciences led to the development of a pressurized process that quickly digests proteins, speeding up protein analysis by minutes. Additionally, PNNL partnere...
Researchers from Taiwan evaluated 34 CT-guided biopsies in patients with pancreas masses, demonstrating a high success rate and minimal complications. The study suggests that transgastric biopsy using large needles is a feasible alternative method for pancreatic lesion sampling.
Researchers have discovered a compound that can obstruct the enzyme protecting a deadly parasite causing sleeping sickness, Chagas disease, and leishmaniasis. The findings provide new hope for developing effective treatments against these incurable diseases.
A TGen-led team has identified three kinases that cause hyperphosphorylation of tau protein, leading to the dismantling of microtubule bridges within brain cells. This process disrupts synaptic connections and can lead to memory loss and thinking problems associated with Alzheimer's disease.
A study analyzing 429 patients with intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma found associations between hepatitis B infection, CA19-9 levels, and lymph node metastases. Radical resection is a key prognostic factor for ICC, and future research should focus on evaluating molecule-targeted therapy.
Researchers found distinct bacterial phylotypes associated with IBS subtypes, including diarrhea-predominant and constipation-predominant IBS. These findings suggest potential targets for diagnostic and therapeutic approaches to managing IBS.
A roundtable discussion highlights palliative care's crucial role in evolving health-care reform policy, focusing on changing public perception and educating policymakers. The panel emphasizes the need for proactive education and awareness to demonstrate palliative medicine's value in improving patient outcomes.
The sequencing of parasitic wasp genomes has revealed over 7,000 genes with recognizable counterparts in humans, offering a new genetic system for studying genetics and evolution. The discovery also highlights the potential of these wasps in controlling pests and producing artificial diets for mass rearing.
Scientists at the University of Kentucky have discovered that withaferin A can simultaneously target two key proteins, vimentin and GFAP, implicated in reactive gliosis. This finding could lead to new treatments for diseases such as multiple sclerosis, Alzheimer's disease, stroke, and traumatic brain injury.
Researchers found that patients with diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol who ordered medications by mail were more likely to take them as prescribed. Mail-order pharmacy users had a financial incentive to fill prescriptions and lived farther from local pharmacies.
A phase II study found that adding ketoprofen to pegylated-interferon (PEG-IFN) with or without ribavirin improves viral kinetics and early activation of the IFNa signaling pathway. This combination therapy shows promise for treating genotype 1 chronic hepatitis C.
Research suggests that siblings play a formative role in shaping children's social and emotional development, with positive relationships between siblings linked to better outcomes for teenagers and adults. Parents can foster a supportive sibling relationship from an early age, regardless of the age difference or gender of the siblings.
A study reveals a genetic variant that increases the risk of Parkinson's disease, affecting vitamin B6 metabolism and dopamine production. This interaction with dietary habits may aid in developing individualized therapies.
Researchers at George Mason University are conducting a clinical trial to treat late-stage colorectal cancer patients with tailored therapies based on their tumor's protein profile. The trial uses a novel drug target mapping technology and Gleevec, a medicine typically prescribed for leukemia and gastrointestinal tumors.
Patients with resectable esophageal adenocarcinoma benefit from neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy, showing improved overall survival and complete resection rates. However, the treatment is connected to a higher mortality rate after surgery.
Researchers report a rare diagnosis of superior mesenteric artery syndrome in a diabetic patient, causing similar symptoms to gastroparesis. Computed tomography and upper GI series are reliable diagnostic tools, while adequate nutrition supply and bodyweight gain aim to relieve symptoms.
The study found that post-Katrina primary care clinics in New Orleans provided efficient and affordable healthcare to low-income and uninsured patients. The clinics reported lower instances of medical debt, delayed appointments, and inadequate communication with doctors compared to the general population.
Studies implicate beta amyloid protein in shared disease mechanisms with Alzheimer's, Down syndrome, and atherosclerosis. Damage to microtubule network disrupts cholesterol metabolism and insulin signaling.
Researchers from M.D. Anderson Cancer Center discovered that cancer stem cells inhibit T cell response and evade immune attack on glioblastoma multiforme. Differentiation of these cells into other neural types can restore the immune response, offering new hope for treatment.
Researchers have grown virtual Persian carpets of boron nitride nanotubes (BNNTs) on substrates made from simple catalysts, achieving perfect quality. The new technique enables precise control over nanotube growth, opening up possibilities for high-powered electronics and water-repellent surfaces.
A study published in World Journal of Gastroenterology found that oral sodium phosphate (OSP) laxatives can induce hyperphosphatemia in low-risk patients, particularly those with lower weights. The research suggests that preoperative evaluation and adjusting OSP doses according to weight may help prevent this condition.
A new study reveals that Caribbean-origin Hispanics have a higher prevalence of hypertension, while Mexicans are more susceptible to diabetes. The research highlights the importance of considering crucial distinctions among Hispanic ethnic subgroups to prevent adverse cardiovascular events.
The LSU research team aims to identify clinical markers of children with Specific Language Impairment in non-traditional dialects, such as African American English and Southern White English. They hope to develop tools that can be used in Louisiana classrooms to assist speech language pathologists and educators.
Researchers found that tumor-associated macrophages produce high levels of proteases cathepsin B and S, enhancing tumor growth and invasion. Interleukin-4 stimulation by tumors stimulates increased Cts B and S activity, providing a potential therapeutic target.
The GOES-P spacecraft is being processed at Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Florida, as part of its preparation for launch. Instrument testing and cleaning on the Solar X-Ray Imager and Imager and Sounder have been completed successfully.
Scientists at the University of York have created a genetic map for Artemisia annua, which will enable rapid improvement of the species and development of high-yielding crops. The project aims to meet soaring demand for effective malaria treatments by 2012, when production is expected to double.
A new eye test technique enables real-time measurement of brain cell death, refining diagnosis and tracking disease progress in Alzheimer's. The method uses fluorescent markers to directly observe retinal nerve cell death, which could lead to successful reversal of the disease with treatment.
A novel and simple formula predicts treatment success for patients with chronic hepatitis C, outperforming viral kinetics. The formula, based on clinical data, is suitable for every cohort of patients and can help tailor treatment.
The American Mathematical Society has awarded several major prizes, including the AMS Steele Prize for Lifetime Achievement and the AMS Conant Prize, to recognize outstanding contributions to mathematics. The recipients include William Fulton, Robert Griess Jr., David Eisenbud, Bryna Kra, and Ileana Streinu, among others.
The study reveals how Wolbachia manipulates the sex lives of its hosts, favoring female offspring to spread the infection. This knowledge could lead to more effective ways to fight human diseases spread by insects like malaria and dengue fever.
Scientists have decoded the genome of Nasonia, a parasitic wasp that eliminates agricultural pests by infesting fly pupae. The study reveals insights into the wasp's ability to prevent host death and its potential for genetic engineering to improve biological pest control.
Researchers have discovered elevated levels of DNA damage in the cellular mitochondria and nuclei of patients with Friedreich's ataxia. The findings suggest that gene activity patterns associated with responses to DNA damage may be used as predictive biomarkers for the disease.
Research by Dr. L Veijola and colleagues suggests H. pylori infection may trigger autoimmune gastritis, a condition that requires lifelong vitamin B12 supplementation. The study confirms previous findings that serum markers of autoimmune gastritis appear in patients with H. pylori, highlighting the potential for eradication therapy to ...
Researchers found that pathological gamblers with Parkinson's Disease exhibited poor decision-making and abnormal social behavior. They performed poorly in the Iowa Gambling Task and showed difficulties in forming close relationships.
Researchers found that tendons play an active role in initiating bone ridge patterning and regulating skeletal growth. The discovery sheds light on a key mechanism underlying the assembly of the musculoskeletal system.
Researchers at Fox Chase Cancer Center found that proteosome inhibitors can rescue mutant proteins by increasing levels of Hsp70, a chaperone protein. This approach may be used to treat debilitating genetic diseases, transforming them into more manageable conditions.
The American Association for Cancer Research and International Association for the Study of Lung Cancer honored Dr. Paul A. Bunn Jr., M.D., for his contributions to lung cancer research. The conference emphasized the importance of translational research in improving lung cancer prognosis.
The University of Plymouth is investing £500,000 in joint research with the Peninsula Dental School to tackle key areas in oral health. The research will focus on statistical epidemiology, virtual reality, and nanotechnology, aiming to ease dental anxiety and develop more aesthetically pleasing materials.
Research at the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute found that punishment is necessary to maintain a mutually beneficial relationship between plants and wasp pollinators. In actively pollinated fig species, wasps that don't provide pollination are sanctioned, while in passively pollinated species, sanctions are absent.
A Canadian report reveals that public perception of surveillance cameras is at odds with reality, with little evidence to suggest they deter crime. The report calls for questioning the social ethics and legal limits of surveillance footage as technology continues to evolve.
The European Space Agency's comet orbiter spacecraft Rosetta successfully tested the performance of its ultraviolet spectrometer Alice during a recent Earth flyby, revealing the Earth's unique ultraviolet spectral emission signature.
The study's findings suggest that parasitic wasp genomes could enhance pest control by identifying target insects and venom composition. Additionally, the rapidly evolving mitochondria in Nasonia wasps may provide insights into human diseases such as mitochondrial disorders.
A study conducted by the University of Chicago found that obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) significantly worsens glucose control in patients with type 2 diabetes. OSA severity is associated with poorer glycemic control and increased HbA1c levels, which can negate the effects of anti-diabetic medications.
The study provides new insights into pest control and genetics by sequencing the genomes of three parasitoid wasp species. The findings suggest that harnessing the full potential of parasitoid wasps could be a more effective alternative to chemical pesticides.
A prospective randomized clinical trial examined acupuncture's effect on preventing prolonged postoperative ileus (PPOI) after intraperitoneal surgery among patients with colon cancer. The study found no significant benefit of acupuncture, suggesting that standard postoperative care is sufficient to prevent PPOI in this population.
Researchers found that biomarker-stratified designs provide complete information on the relationship between treatment effects and biomarkers. This design enables unbiased estimates of benefit-to-risk ratios across different subgroups.
Scientists identified rapid bursts of neural activity in high-order visual centers when patients correctly recognized target images, suggesting a 'threshold' for conscious perceptual awareness. The study found that brain processing time is crucial for ignition, with mask presentation too soon 'killing' visual input signals.
A recent study published in Molecular Ecology suggests that Antarctic minke whale populations have not increased due to commercial whaling. The research estimates the long-term population size of Antarctic minke whales to be around 670,000 individuals, similar to current estimates from sighting surveys.
The 2010 awards support groundbreaking research in cancer metabolism, tumor metabolism, and drug resistance. Three scientists will explore novel approaches to fighting cancer using innovative technologies.
Researchers aim to improve methods for screening and testing glaucoma, a disease affecting 70 million people worldwide. The study will focus on optimizing perimetry testing and developing new statistical methods to compare different clinical measures.
The study found that mortality due to colon cancer increased between 1951 and 2000, but stabilized in men and decreased in women between 2000 and 2006. The main causes of these disparities include tobacco consumption and red meat intake.
A study of nearly 2000 healthy adults found that kidney abnormalities occur in at least 25% of the population. Most abnormalities were mild and not causing discomfort, but future research is needed to determine their impact on long-term health.
A new report investigates the cognitive biases that lead people to misidentify common objects, such as guns or tumors. The researchers suggest retraining individuals in these professions through simulated searches to improve their accuracy.