A previously-unknown ion channel in human blood vessels has been identified as a natural defence mechanism against heart disease. Pregnenolone sulphate, a 'fountain of youth' steroid, can trigger this protective effect in diseased and healthy blood vessels alike.
The lake's surface waters have reached the warmest temperature on record, affecting fish productivity and ecosystem. Climate change models predict further warming, exacerbating the decline of fish stocks and impacting the region's food security.
Researchers identified GRP78 as a key protein facilitating fungal invasion of blood vessels in diabetes-related infections. Mice treated with GRP78-specific immune serum showed protection from mucormycosis.
Children requiring home mechanical ventilation often receive frequent chest x-rays, but research suggests these may not be necessary to change treatment plans. Researchers analyzed records of 28 patients and found that two-thirds of repeat x-rays did not prompt changes within 24 hours.
Scientists have found evidence of neotectonic activity in the Alps using speleothems, a type of cave formation. The study also presents new constraints for dating shallow faults at the AlpTransit tunnel site in Switzerland.
Researchers at Thomas Jefferson University found that hypofractionated stereotactic radiotherapy significantly improves survival rates for patients with recurrent brain cancers, while minimizing side effects. The treatment provides longer survival without experiencing common chemotherapy and targeted therapy side effects.
The American Association of Pharmaceutical Scientists (AAPS) honored outstanding researchers with awards for their contributions to biotechnology. The Excellence in Ligand-Binding Assay Award and Innovation in Biotechnology Awards recognized achievements in fields such as drug detection, vaccine development, and cancer treatment.
Researchers found fossil teeth of Carcharocles megalodon, the world's largest shark species, in an ancient nursery in Panama. The teeth suggest young sharks spent their early years near the coast among mangroves.
Good oral health during pregnancy combats adverse effects of oral disease, preventing pain, infections, and nutrient deficiencies. Regular dental treatment can be safely performed at any time during pregnancy.
ARS scientists have developed a biocontrol agent that uses neuropeptide mimics to kill aphids, potentially reducing pesticide use and environmental harm. The treatment was found to be highly effective in killing 90-100% of aphids within three days, comparable to insecticides on the market.
Research reveals that intermittent hypoxia associated with sleep apnea can cause distinct drops in insulin sensitivity in mice. This finding suggests that sleep apnea may increase the risk of developing metabolic disorders such as type 2 diabetes.
The Asian shore crab has found a hospitable niche in its new environment, coexisting with native species in the cobbled beach ecosystem. The cordgrass-ribbed mussel environment provides a stable habitat for the crabs, allowing them to thrive without crowding out native species.
The Art of Science 2010 exhibition features breathtaking images created by Princeton researchers, exploring the beauty in scientific inquiry. The competition attracted top talent, with cash prizes awarded to first, second, and third place winners for their visually stunning entries.
A study found cochlear implants slightly benefit older adults, but not as much as younger patients. The results suggest that older patients may experience a prolonged adaptation phase and have inherent limitations in processing high-rate stimulation paradigms.
A national survey of surgical residents found that those who are single or do not have children are more likely to pursue specialty fellowships. The study also highlights the growing trend of specialization among surgery residents, which may impact the future of general surgery.
A new study challenges the long-held assumption that children adopt an anthropocentric perspective on human-animal relationships from birth. Instead, research suggests that human-centered reasoning emerges around age 3 in urban children, reflecting their community's perspectives.
Researchers are developing methods to protect cacao crops from devastating plant pathogens, targeting two mechanisms critical for pathogen attack. The project aims to improve crop resilience and provide nutrition and income options for smallholder farmers in developing countries.
The Interphone International Study Group found no increase in brain cancer among users, but heavy users appeared at a higher risk. The study's inconclusive results were attributed to restricted access to participants and flawed ethics reviews.
Neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) may reduce muscle atrophy in patients with severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). NMES improved quadriceps and calf muscle mass, increasing the anabolism to catabolism ratio in muscle proteins.
Researchers at Argonne National Laboratory discovered that nanoparticles can self-assemble into a crystal lattice with low defects when floating at a liquid-air interface. This process allows for two-dimensional crystallization over a longer time scale, enabling the formation of highly ordered phases.
Researchers used clinical-grade human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs) to treat ALI, restoring normal function of alveolar epithelial cells and reducing inflammatory cytokines. The study found that intravenous delivery of hMSCs was as effective as intrabronchial administration in repairing damaged lung tissue.
A recent study found that most patients with localized papillary thyroid cancer can expect favorable outcomes without treatment. The 20-year survival rate for these patients is estimated to be around 97%, similar to those who received treatment. Clinicians and patients can feel comfortable considering observation as an option.
Researchers identify GRP78 as key factor in mucormycosis pathogenesis, providing new avenue for therapeutics development. PET probes detect distinct immune cell populations, suggesting wider use for immune modulating therapies.
A new study published in The Lancet found that common blood tests for kidney function and urine protein levels can predict mortality risk. People with high levels of albumin in their urine were at a higher risk of mortality, with an increased risk of nearly 50% at certain thresholds.
A study found that focusing on the negative effects of indoor tanning on appearance can reduce tanning behavior in young women, even those motivated by health concerns. The appearance-focused booklet also showed promise in reducing tanning behaviors among those with pathological motives for tanning.
Endoscopic sinus surgery rates increased by 20% among Medicare beneficiaries from 1998 to 2006, while open sinus surgery rates declined 40%. This trend suggests a shift towards minimally invasive procedures for managing chronic rhinosinusitis in the elderly population.
A Purdue University researcher used NASA satellite data and Google Earth to detect changes in North Korea's Mount Paekdu Biosphere Reserve, finding that up to 75% of the forest had been removed through extensive logging. This has raised concerns over biodiversity loss and habitat destruction in the region.
The discovery of three new Philippine monitor lizard species and a new subspecies sheds light on the immense biodiversity of these giant reptiles in the region. The study highlights the importance of museum collections and the need for continued research to recognize and name all species, emphasizing the global taxonomy crisis.
A Belgian-Dutch study found that the use of life-ending drugs without explicit patient request occurred in 1.8% of deaths in Flemish Belgium. The majority of these cases involved elderly patients or those in irreversible comas, with discussion with families and healthcare professionals often present.
A study led by St. Jude Children's Research Hospital identified a cancer gene unusually active in some childhood brain tumors, providing a new treatment target for high-grade gliomas (HGGs). The research found significant differences between genetic defects in children and adults with HGG.
A recent study at the University of Illinois found that some impatiens plant varieties are more attractive to Western flower thrips than others. The researchers discovered that the Dazzler White variety emits volatile compounds that attract thrips, while the Cajun Carmine variety does not.
Researchers found that a novel internet-supported strategy with daily FENO measurements and supervision by an asthma nurse reduced cumulative 6-month dosing of oral corticosteroids in severe asthma patients. This approach improved asthma control without worsening quality of life.
Research suggests that COPD patients who engage in higher amounts of daily physical activity have better functional exercise tolerance. Increasing normal daily activities like walking or gardening may be more beneficial than formal exercise training. This approach aims to promote a more active lifestyle and improve long-term function.
A new technique developed by UNC researchers uses light to manipulate protein behavior in cells, enabling precise control of cell movement. This discovery has significant implications for understanding embryonic development, nerve regeneration, and cancer metastasis.
A study found that pulmonary rehabilitation improves health status in COPD patients with varying levels of obesity, including those with extreme obesity. The research suggests that obese COPD patients may benefit from rehab despite lower exercise capacities.
Research suggests that consuming high-fat meals can lead to increased airway neutrophils and TLR4 mRNA gene expression, impairing the response to asthma medication Ventolin. High-fat intake may play a role in managing asthma by reducing inflammation and improving lung function.
Estrogen has been found to decrease airway constriction and increase bronchodilation in human airway smooth muscle cells, particularly when combined with beta-agonists. This suggests that estrogen may be beneficial for women with asthma, and further research is needed to explore its potential as a treatment option.
A study published by the American Thoracic Society found that long-term vitamin E supplementation may decrease the risk of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) by about 10% in both smokers and non-smokers. Vitamin E may protect lung tissue from damage caused by free radicals, according to researchers.
Researchers found that the deltaFosB gene regulator protects against depression by boosting neurons' activity when glutamate binds to AMPA receptors. Boosting deltaFosB calms neurons, enabling individuals to pursue goal-directed behavior despite stress.
A study by the University of Duisburg-Essen found that people living in polluted urban areas experience higher blood pressure due to exposure to fine and coarse particulate matter. This association remains even after accounting for other factors such as age, gender, smoking, and weight.
A study found that statin therapy can lower the risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE) including deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE). Statins are believed to decrease VTE risk by reducing inflammation.
Researchers at Brown University have found that Lake Tanganyika has experienced unprecedented warming over the last century, with surface waters reaching record highs. This warming is expected to affect fish stocks, which are crucial for millions of people in the region, and could have severe consequences for local livelihoods.
Researchers at Cambridge have developed a way to visualize chemistry in lithium-ion batteries using Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) spectroscopy. This technique could help identify the formation of dendrites, which cause short circuits and fires, enabling the development of safer battery technologies.
A study found that children with severe asthma have a significantly higher risk of developing COPD as adults. Children with mild asthma were not at increased risk. The study suggests early treatment and surveillance for children with severe asthma may prevent long-term complications.
Researchers found that higher oxygen levels in preterm infants improve survival rates, but also increase the risk of retinopathy of prematurity. A new treatment using continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) is as effective as traditional ventilator therapy and may result in fewer complications.
A recent study published at the ATS 2010 International Conference found that HIV-infected patients who are falsely diagnosed with tuberculosis have higher mortality rates compared to those who receive correct diagnoses. The study evaluated 600 HIV-infected patients treated at Mulago Hospital in Kampala, Uganda, and discovered that fals...
Researchers found MP-376 reduced P. aeruginosa density and improved lung function in CF patients, with the highest dose showing the most significant effect. The treatment was well-tolerated and showed a 79% reduction in need for other antimicrobials.
Researchers developed a new technique using patterns in immune response to differentiate between active and latent tuberculosis. The test identified specific cytokine patterns that allowed for quick diagnosis, potentially reducing early exposure to the disease.
A Stanford-led team has solved the mystery of how functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) signals are produced, confirming earlier assumptions about their relationship to neural excitation. The breakthrough enables researchers to study brain-wide impact of changes in neural circuitry using blood-flow fMRI combined with optogenetics.
The American Thoracic Society has published a joint statement on renal failure in ICU patients, highlighting the need for better prevention, diagnosis, and treatment strategies. The statement emphasizes the importance of fluid management, biomarkers, and evidence-based practices to reduce mortality and morbidity.
The UCLA Henry Samueli School of Engineering and Applied Science will advance MEMS technology with a $5.5 million grant from the US Defense Department. The goal is to create electrically connected, rotating microscale motors for sensing and communications in defense systems.
A new study found that increased parent involvement across elementary school years is associated with fewer problem behaviors and better social skills, but no impact on academic performance. The Study of Early Childcare and Youth Development followed over 1,300 children from birth to fifth grade.
The 2010 IADR/GSK Innovation in Oral Care Awards recognized three researchers for their innovative work on antimicrobial coatings, citrus-based treatments, and point-of-care diagnostic tools. These awards will support the development of new technologies to prevent and treat oral diseases.
A new research facility at Riley Hospital for Children will improve the process of turning laboratory research into new treatments for sick children. The IU School of Medicine will conduct comprehensive phenotyping studies and test the safety and effectiveness of potential new treatments.
Researchers at Thomas Jefferson University have identified a protein, IGF-IR, that regulates motility and invasion of bladder cancer cells. This finding offers a novel molecular target for treating patients with aggressive bladder cancer and may also serve as a tumor biomarker for diagnosis.
Researchers at Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München create an artificial crystal of light to observe exotic multiparticle interactions, revealing complex quantum dynamics and periodic collapses and revivals of matter wave fields. The study demonstrates the existence of three-body collisions involving multiple atoms simultaneously.
Ameya Deshmukh's project wins first place with computer modeling to identify new medications for nicotine addiction. Kevin Knight's study suggests that cognitive games could be useful as an adjunct to ADHD medication.
A study found that almost three-quarters of homeless adults had at least one type of unmet health care need, with rates for specific services six to ten times higher than the general population. Uninsurance was a consistent predictor of inability to get needed care.
A new study published in Child Development found that children whose minds are stimulated in multiple early childhood settings have higher achievement in elementary school. The research highlights the importance of improving coordination among parents, preschool classrooms, and elementary schools to boost children's achievement.
Researchers discovered that coral larvae can detect sound waves to locate suitable habitats, which is essential for their survival. The study highlights the importance of understanding how corals respond to their environment, particularly in light of human noise pollution.