Six new corn inbred lines with resistance to aflatoxin contamination have been found free of foreign seed-borne diseases. Seeds are now available in the United States for further evaluation and breeding towards commercialization. Data from these lines will provide insight into their value in reducing food safety risks.
Researchers at Stanford University School of Medicine discovered a previously unknown association between type-2 diabetes and high levels of polychlorinated biphenyls and gamma-tocopherol, a form of vitamin E. The novel analytic technique, called environment wide association studies (EWAS), identified these relationships surpassing tho...
Researchers at Brookhaven National Laboratory have developed three patents for fuel-cell catalysts that reduce costly platinum use and increase its effectiveness. The newly patented catalysts can greatly reduce the cost and increase the use of fuel cells in electric vehicles, making them a major source of clean energy.
A study analyzing 2,575 Dutch transplant candidates found that kidneys from donors after cardiac death provided a 56% higher chance of survival for patients. While the initial failure rate was higher, long-term benefits outweighed the risks, suggesting an expansion of available organs.
A new nanotech breath sensor can detect Type I diabetes by measuring acetone levels in exhaled breath. The device is sensitive enough to detect high concentrations of acetone, even in moist air, allowing for early diagnosis and monitoring of diabetic ketoacidosis.
Researchers from the University of the Basque Country have identified a new mechanism for amyloid peptide-induced neuronal death. By blocking specific receptors, neurons can be protected from lethal effects, paving the way for novel therapies to slow Alzheimer's progression.
A survey of patients and healthcare providers in the southeastern US found that most patients are satisfied with their care, but doctors often lack training on multicultural awareness. The study highlights the importance of effective communication between patients and doctors to address disparities in healthcare outcomes.
A nationwide smoking ban could save over 18,596 fewer hospitalizations for heart attack after one year of implementation, resulting in more than $92 million in savings. The study found that implementing a comprehensive smoking ban could lead to a 12% drop in heart attack admissions and a 11% reduction in heart attack rates.
Researchers found pacemaker reuse associated with a 4% decrease in overall complications compared to new device implantation. No increased risk of infection or device malfunction was observed.
Researchers tracked a plume of contaminated groundwater flowing from a septic system to the ocean, revealing a potential source of pollution. The study's findings could inform conservation efforts and improve wastewater management in coastal communities.
Research on older cystic fibrosis patients reveals significant differences in disease outcomes between males and females, with females living longer and having delayed but equally severe disease. The study's findings provide valuable insights into the future treatment of cystic fibrosis as this population continues to grow.
Researchers at Mayo Clinic have identified a key gene called GATA3 that is silenced in common kidney cancer, promoting its development. The discovery suggests that a combination of agents may turn the gene back on, providing a much-needed therapy for difficult-to-treat kidney cancer.
Researchers used NBI to visualize mucosal angiogenesis in IBD patients and found abnormal microvascular changes not seen with white light colonoscopy. This technology may aid in assessing mucosal angiogenesis and could be beneficial for IBD treatment.
Researchers have found a compound in smokers' breath that can detect recent tobacco consumption with high accuracy. The compound, 2,5-dimethylfuran, is only present in the breath of smokers within the last three days.
A UBC study found that seniors and low-income earners are more likely to be long-term users of benzodiazepines, which can lead to dependence, tolerance, cognitive impairment, and increased risk of falls. The study suggests that prescribing practices should target younger populations to reduce long-term use
The University of Florida has been awarded a $1.2 million grant from HHMI to support collaborative undergraduate research initiatives. This funding will enable students to work with faculty members trained in different disciplines, fostering a cross-disciplinary approach to solving human health problems.
A newly developed experimental Ebola vaccine has shown protection in monkeys against a newer Ebola virus species identified in 2007. The vaccine induces a robust T-cell response that can cross-react with other Ebola virus species.
Researchers found that eating pistachios increases blood serum levels of lutein, beta-carotene, and gamma-tocopherol. These antioxidants may help lower oxidized LDL concentrations, which can contribute to inflammation and plaque buildup inside blood vessels.
BBSRC funded researchers found that applying Bt to young plants enhances the bacteria's ability to infect insect pests. The study also reveals that the natural abundance of Bt in the environment plays a significant role in its effectiveness.
Peregrine's PS-targeting antibody bavituximab reactivates the immune system to attack and destroy cancer cells, potentially working synergistically with multiple therapies. The company plans to initiate two new Phase II trials in refractory and front-line lung cancer patients by mid-year.
A recent Hastings Center workshop examined the moral implications of synthetic biology, raising questions about humanity's relationship with nature. The project aims to address pressing ethical concerns in emerging technology, involving experts from various fields.
Researchers at Michigan State University have discovered a novel, high-quality oil produced by the burning bush enzyme, which boasts lower viscosity and calorie content. This unique oil could be used as a direct-use biofuel for diesel engines and as a reduced-calorie food oil substitute.
Researchers found that laptops can increase students' engagement, attentiveness, and participation when used to facilitate interactive discussions and activities. Students reported feeling more attentive and able to learn when using LectureTools.
Primary care physicians can play a crucial role in recognizing and treating depression by helping patients describe their distress, providing explanations that conform to patients' experiences, and reducing blame and stigma. This approach can facilitate follow-through with a mutually-endorsed plan for treatment.
Researchers from the University of Sheffield discovered that female damselflies choose hot males based on their body temperature. Males that have warmed themselves in the sun are more likely to copulate and benefit females by providing access to warm territories for egg-laying.
A 20-year study of over 70,000 cases in 27 countries found that parents with books in the home increase their child's educational attainment by 3.2 years, similar to having highly educated parents or a university education. Having just 20 books at home also has a significant impact on propelling children to higher levels of education.
Researchers found that sewage sludge can be used to produce biodiesel fuel within a few cents of being competitive with petroleum-based diesel. The study suggests that microorganisms could be used to boost oil production in sludge, increasing biodiesel production capacity to over 10 billion gallons per year.
Researchers at Idaho National Laboratory are testing lasers to scrub surfaces clean of sulfur mustard gas and VX, a nerve agent. The tests have proved successful on complex, porous surfaces like concrete.
A new University of Alberta study found no significant difference in arsenic levels between children playing on chromated copper arsenate-treated wood and other materials. The study suggests that contact with CCA treated wood is unlikely to contribute to overall arsenic exposure in children.
Researchers from the University of the Basque Country and American scientists publish first results of a study on the impact of a large-sized celestial body on Jupiter last July. The impact created a massive ash cloud of around 5,000 km in size, with surrounding halo effects.
A team of researchers has discovered that amyloid-β protein accumulates in the eyes of people with Down syndrome, leading to distinctive cataracts. The findings may lead to an innovative eye test for early detection of Alzheimer's pathology in both disorders.
Tropical Storm 02A has strong thunderstorms with maximum sustained winds near 45 knots (52 mph) and wind- and wave-heights up to 15 feet. The storm is moving into the Gulf of Aden, where it's expected to strengthen briefly before weakening due to wind shear.
A study published in the journal Addiction found that smoking cessation treatment is as effective among people with severe mental illnesses as it is for the general population. The treatment did not cause deterioration in mental health, and instead improved physical health, reducing mortality rates by three times.
A team of Japanese researchers successfully built an ornithopter, a replica model of a swallowtail butterfly, to demonstrate its ability to fly with simple flapping motions. The study's findings suggest that flight can be achieved without feedback control, opening up possibilities for future aerodynamic systems.
A systematic review found that Tai Chi is associated with reduced stress, anxiety, and depression, as well as improved mood and self-esteem. However, the quality of the studies was generally modest, highlighting the need for more high-quality randomized trials to confirm these findings.
Researchers found significant cost increases in Medicare claims between 2003 and 2006, with DES contributing $3.32 billion to growth and ICDs contributing $774 million. Average costs for coronary artery disease and chronic heart failure patients increased substantially, driven by the use of these devices.
Georgia Tech's Todd Sulchek receives Gates Foundation grant for innovative global health research project on multifunctional microparticles. The project aims to combat hard-to-treat diseases like malaria and tuberculosis by targeting microorganisms and activating the immune system.
A study published in the Journal of Urology found that girls with vesicoureteral reflux are at higher risk of new renal damage. Boys also showed signs of renal damage, although at lower rates. The study suggests that preventing febrile urinary tract infections is crucial for kidney health.
Researchers observe DNA unfolding at high resolution for the first time, revealing two main mechanisms of separation. This breakthrough aims to design drugs that modulate gene activity and DNA replication.
Researchers successfully created a bacterial cell with a synthetic genome, paving the way for designing bacteria for biofuel production and environmental cleanup. The new method uses a combination of chemical synthesis and genetic engineering to create a 'synthetic cell' that can be controlled by a human-made genome.
Researchers at Stanford University present an environment-wide association study (EWAS) to examine the contributions of hundreds of environmental factors in Type 2 diabetes. They found strong associations with pesticide derivatives and certain nutrients, suggesting a potential protective role.
The European Medicines Agency (EMA) has faced criticism for refusing to release documentation on severe adverse reactions, despite a complaint from a father who lost his son to a drug. The EMA's handling of licensing decisions and transparency is being questioned, with some experts calling for more openness.
The Howard Hughes Medical Institute has renewed a four-year grant for Rice University's global health program, Beyond Traditional Borders (BTB), with a $1.2 million investment. BTB challenges students to design practical solutions to real-world problems in developing nations, resulting in over 10% of Rice undergraduates taking the cour...
Researchers found eGFR to be equally valuable as Ccr for assessing preoperative renal function in gastric cancer patients, with significant correlations between postoperative sCr and both eGFR and Ccr. The study suggests eGFR may replace Ccr in clinical practice due to its clear advantages.
Researchers have developed synthetic biomaterials that mimic cellular membranes, showing promise in targeted delivery of cancer drugs and gene therapy. The new materials, called dendrimersomes, offer stability, mechanical strength, and tunable properties.
A large trial found that adding misoprostol to standard uterotonics did not reduce post-partum blood loss, but was associated with increased shivering and body temperature. WHO's withdrawal of support for misoprostol use in low-income settings has been criticized.
A long-term surveillance study found that blood-clot related strokes decreased by 11.6% among whites in the Greater Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky area between 1999 and 2005. In contrast, stroke rates remained stable for blacks during the same period. The study's lead author notes that racial disparities in stroke rates worsened over time.
The Baylor College of Medicine team has successfully sequenced 178 microbial reference genomes representative of the human body. These reference genomes will help scientists understand and contextualize the data accumulated over time, providing valuable insights into the complex relationship between humans and their microbiota.
Research confirms a strong association between abdominal fat and increased risk of dementia, with visceral fat component showing the strongest link. The study's findings suggest that central obesity may be a key mechanism underlying the link between obesity and cognitive decline.
The Howard Hughes Medical Institute has awarded $79 million to 50 research universities in 30 states, supporting the development of creative, research-based courses and curricula. The grants aim to improve science teaching from elementary school through college and provide students with vital lab experience.
Researchers at Mount Sinai School of Medicine identified a drug that improves communication between nerve cells in mice with Phelan-McDermid Syndrome. The treatment restores normal nerve cell function and adaptation to stimulation.
A nationwide smoking ban would lead to a significant reduction in heart attack hospitalizations, with 18,596 fewer admissions expected. The ban could also save over $92 million in direct healthcare costs.
A recent study found that reducing niacin intake can lead to improved glucose metabolism and reduced appetite in individuals with obesity. The research team also discovered a significant correlation between increased per capita niacin consumption and rising obesity rates among US children and adolescents.
An Indiana University study found that more physical activity leads to less obesity, with the greatest decline seen in white women who met minimum national guidelines. However, racial and ethnic differences were observed, particularly among Hispanic and African American women.
Overweight or obese adults who attended Weight Watchers group programs significantly reduced fasting glucose and insulin levels, reducing diabetes risk. Those who attended more sessions had greater weight loss and change in glucose and insulin levels.
A nationwide study confirms the benefit of estrogen-lowering drugs before surgery for breast cancer patients. The treatment increased the likelihood that women could undergo breast-conservation surgery instead of mastectomy. After 16-week aromatase inhibitor therapy, 82% of women had successful breast-conservation surgery.
Researchers at Princeton University found that a chemical signal called cAMP can induce coordinated movement in cells, leading to the formation of groups. This discovery has implications for understanding collective behavior in humans and other organisms, from white blood cells to organ development.
Researchers found that CA-125 change over time can detect invasive, high-grade ovarian cancers at curable stages in post-menopausal women. The study identified a promising first step towards screening, but acknowledges the need for further research and a large-scale randomized trial to confirm the findings.
New research identifies rhythmic patterns as a more effective way to discover favorite music than traditional genre classifications. By analyzing 100 songs from four genres, the study found that specific rhythmic sequences can accurately identify musical styles.
A new study by Rice University and the US Department of State's Office of eDiplomacy examines the five-year history of Diplopedia, a Wikipedia-style diplomacy Web 2.0 tool. The platform has grown to over 10,000 articles written by DOS employees, providing valuable information for desk officers and foreign service experts.