Dr. Karine Le Roch is investigating how malaria parasite multiplies in red blood cells using a $1.7 million NIH grant. The goal is to develop more effective strategies against this devastating disease, with potential new drug strategies also being explored.
Researchers have developed a method to control drug delivery using nanoparticles, which can improve the therapeutic effects of colon cancer treatments. The new approach targets the lower intestine, overcoming existing barriers such as stomach acidity and rapid clearance.
The three-year project aims to investigate blowout dynamics and their role in climate change, providing insights into how these landforms develop on other planets. The research will also improve management of coastlines and provide public outreach through posters and booklets.
A significant genetic deletion on chromosome 17 has been identified as a risk factor for autism spectrum disorders and schizophrenia. The study found that patients with this deletion were at least 13.58 times more likely to develop ASD or schizophrenia.
A new study from USC Marshall School of Business suggests that brand attachment has a stronger impact on consumers than previously believed. Consumers' emotional bonds with brands can lead to sacrifices in time, money, energy, and reputation to maintain the connection.
The UMD-led EPOXI spacecraft flew by comet Hartley 2 at a distance of 435 miles, collecting never-before-seen images that will help scientists understand the composition and diversity of comets. The mission aims to learn more about the origin and history of our solar system by studying the material from comets.
A Johns Hopkins University study found that hard work can enhance appreciation for food, even low-calorie options. Mice trained to navigate obstacle courses preferred harder-to-obtain snacks more, indicating that effort may change how good food tastes.
Researchers at Brown University are testing whether convenient access to affordable fresh produce in workplaces can motivate higher fruit and vegetable consumption. The study, funded by a $3.38 million grant, aims to reduce prices and increase year-round availability of healthy produce.
A new study published in Psychological Science found that people can understand actions by recognizing underlying syntax. The researchers tested whether the structure of action sequences affected how quickly participants read sentences describing those actions.
The National Science Foundation has awarded $101.9 million to ASPB member researchers under its Plant Genome Research Program, advancing plant genomics and improving agricultural productivity. The projects will also engage the public in outreach and educational activities.
A decade of research has led to significant advances in treating lupus nephritis, with improved classification and new treatment regimens reducing side effects. New therapies targeting specific components of the immune system have also shown promise, including rituximab and ocrelizumab.
Research identifies a key mechanism in bone formation after resorption, revealing the importance of TGF-?1 and skeletal stem cell recruitment. The study suggests that using PTH before antiresorptive drugs could be an effective therapy for osteoporosis treatment.
A report by the Project on Emerging Nanotechnologies assesses the applicability of voluntary approaches to nanotechnology oversight. The study suggests that both non-regulatory and voluntary initiatives can play a constructive role in managing nanotechnology's possible environmental and health effects.
Field pennycress, a common roadside plant, has shown promising results as a potential source of biofuel due to its high seed yields and ability to thrive in cold weather. The USDA study found that the oil from field pennycress seeds can be converted into biodiesel with cloud and pour points suitable for use in cold climates.
Dr. Vinita Goyal, a Women's Reproductive Health Research Scholar at Care New England, is conducting research into the accessibility of contraception services for female military veterans within the US Department of Veterans Affairs. Her study aims to identify gaps in women's healthcare services and inform policy improvements.
Scientists have discovered a connection between the stratospheric quasi-biennial oscillation (QBO) and El Niño-Southern Oscillation, with QBO signals exhibiting weaker amplitudes and faster cycles during El Niño conditions. Additionally, a new method separates pollution's effects on clouds from sea spray's influence, revealing distinct...
A new study published in Molecular Pain found that a single injection of morphine can strongly reduce testosterone levels in the brain and plasma of male rats. The study's findings are particularly important as testosterone is essential for various bodily functions, including cognitive functions and bone structure remodeling.
A new study from North Carolina State University reveals that discussing risks associated with scientific endeavors can make people more entrenched in their viewpoints and less open to others' perspectives. The research found that individuals who oppose a facility are more likely to become even more opposed after discussion, while thos...
A new study reveals that manual plantar fasciitis stretching exercises outperform shockwave therapy in treating acute plantar fasciitis pain. Patients who performed stretching exercises reported higher patient satisfaction and superior results compared to those who received repetitive low-energy radial shock-wave therapy.
A research team discovered five additional SLF genes controlling self-incompatibility in the petunia plant. These genes work together to promote hybrid vigor and prevent genetic disease associated with inbreeding. The study sheds light on the complex mechanisms plants use to avoid inbreeding.
A study funded by the Motor Neurone Disease Association has identified a common signature of nerve damage in MND patients' brains, using advanced MRI techniques. This finding holds promise for a biomarker that could improve diagnosis speed and accuracy, as well as assess future treatments.
The study found that planning complex tasks was key for making sophisticated hand axes, suggesting higher cognition involved. The results point to links between tool-making and language evolution, with the brain's Broca's area playing a role.
Researchers identified significant qualitative differences in human and chimpanzee natural killer cell receptors, shaped by human-specific evolution. These distinctions affect the ability to fight infections like HIV/AIDS and malaria, as well as reproductive processes.
Researchers found that screening for lung cancer using helical CT scanning reduced lung cancer deaths by 20 percent compared to chest X-rays. The study also showed overall deaths due to any factor were 7 percent lower in those screened with low-dose helical CT.
Research by Uppsala University has found that nerve cells responsible for transmitting heat pain are also linked to itching sensations. This discovery could lead to the development of new treatments for conditions like eczema and burns.
Researchers used a computer model to simulate the effects of 100 years of farming on claypan soils in Missouri, finding a significant increase in herbicide runoff and decline in crop yields. The study provides insights for farmers, policymakers, and conservation agents to make informed decisions about best practices.
Researchers at National Jewish Health found that 84-93% of foods avoided due to suspected allergies were restored after oral food challenges. The study highlights the need to balance clinical allergy testing with complete food elimination diets.
Researchers Patricia Thiel and James Evans have discovered a general principle behind additive-enhanced coarsening, a process that transforms smaller objects into larger ones. This breakthrough could lead to the development of more durable nanoscale technologies and structures.
Recent studies report no significant difference in function or patient satisfaction between biceps tenotomy and tenodesis for long head biceps tendinopathy. Nonsurgical treatment options, such as rest, anti-inflammatory drugs, and physical therapy, are considered the first line of treatment for this condition.
Researchers identified placental growth factor as a promising diagnostic biomarker for ectopic pregnancies. The study found that PIGF levels were reduced in samples from tubal ectopic pregnancies compared to intrauterine pregnancies.
Research reveals that tiny variants in a protein called HLA-B are associated with immune system's ability to control HIV infection. The study identifies five amino acid sites critical to the protein's function, providing insights into the genetic basis of natural immunity.
The Scripps Research Institute scientists have found strong evidence that a DNA repair enzyme is involved in the expansion of triplet repeats in the FXN gene, leading to the silencing of the gene and the disease. The study suggests that the enzyme mistakenly identifies the repeat expansions as DNA damage and attempts to repair them.
The Endocrine Society releases a clinical practice guideline for the nutritional and endocrine management of adults after bariatric surgery. The guideline features evidence-based recommendations to prevent weight regain and co-morbidities, including type 2 diabetes, polycystic ovarian disease, and fatty liver.
A team of researchers has discovered a way to target and block the enzyme beta glucuronidase, which causes severe diarrhea in patients taking CPT-11, a widely used colon cancer treatment. The breakthrough approach could improve anticancer drug efficacy and tolerance without harming beneficial gut bacteria.
Christopher Gregg's groundbreaking research reveals how parental genetic cues influence brain development and disease, providing a roadmap for future research. His findings have major relevance for understanding brain evolution, function, and disease.
A new registry based on electronic health records could help physicians improve care for patients with mild to moderate chronic kidney disease. The registry, developed at the Cleveland Clinic, houses information on 57,276 CKD patients and has been validated as reliable for tracking disease progression.
Researchers at Washington University School of Medicine identified a gene linked to eye melanoma metastasis. BAP1 mutations were found in 84% of metastatic tumors but rare in non-metastatic ones. The discovery may lead to more effective treatments and insights into cancer cell evolution.
Scientists discovered CRISPR/Cas, a bacterial immune system that protects against foreign DNA invasions. The system may help prevent antibiotic resistance in certain bacteria, benefiting industries like yogurt and probiotics.
A study found that testosterone treatment improved muscle mass, strength, and quality of life in frail elderly men, but these effects were not maintained six months after treatment. Researchers suggest a multi-disciplinary approach, including resistance exercise and lifestyle options, to interrupt the downward spiral into frailty.
A study analyzing genomic DNA from over 23,000 patients with ASD, developmental delay, or schizophrenia found a common deletion on chromosome 17 that increases the risk of developing either condition by at least 13.58 times.
Clement Loo, a University of Cincinnati doctoral student, presented his research on invasive species and the Shifting Balance Theory at an international conference. His paper argues that this theory is more nuanced than traditional Fisherian gradual mass selection in understanding the evolution of invasiveness.
Researchers found that polar bears can thrive even if they raid geese nests, thanks to a mismatch in timing that allows geese to lay eggs earlier than bears arrive on shore. This means the geese population is unlikely to go extinct despite bear predation.
A national study conducted by the National Cancer Institute found that CT scanning can reduce lung cancer deaths by 20% in former and current heavy smokers. The study, which involved over 53,000 participants, compared low-dose helical CT with standard chest X-ray screening.
Researchers used X-rays to pinpoint locations of more than 50 mutations in the ryanodine receptor, a protein associated with calcium-related diseases. The study provides insights into how these mutations contribute to disease and could lead to new therapeutic targets for heart disease.
Tropical Storm Tomas is intensifying due to strengthening convection and colder cloud tops detected by NASA's infrared satellite imagery. The storm is expected to bring heavy rainfall and life-threatening flashfloods to several Caribbean islands.
Scientists have discovered a way to eliminate debilitating diarrhea caused by CPT-11, a chemotherapy drug used for treating colon cancer. By inhibiting an enzyme in bacteria of the digestive tract, patients may be able to receive higher doses of the drug without severe side effects.
A new study led by researchers from UCLA and USC found that pregnant women whose sisters had hyperemesis gravidarum are 17 times more likely to experience the condition. Women with a family history of extreme morning sickness may be aware they may also have it, highlighting the importance of taking a family history into account.
Scientists at the Wellcome Trust Centre for Human Genetics identified a genetic variant influencing left-right hand preference in individuals with dyslexia. The study found a strong link between PCSK6 gene variants and relative hand skill, suggesting a novel genetic basis for handedness.
Astronomers at UCI use the Herschel telescope to detect hundreds of new galaxies through cosmic alignment, revealing a whole new class of galaxies from the universe's early days. The discovery provides insights into star formation and galaxy size when the universe was young.
A large population-based study revealed that exposure to multiple antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) used by pregnant women to control seizures may cause poor school performance in their teenagers. The study found children exposed to two or more AEDs had an increased risk of not receiving a final grade upon completion of schooling.
A large-scale international project is analyzing the genomes of 2,500 people to understand human genetic variability and its impact on disease susceptibility. The pilot study has already revealed significant findings on human genome sequence variation.
Stem cells can sense a decrease in available nutrients and respond by retaining only a small pool of active stem cells for tissue maintenance. Upon re-feeding, insulin-like peptide expression and stem cell numbers recover quickly.
A new study shows that even when a trait becomes sex-specific, knock-on effects can still disadvantage the other sex. Researchers found that in broad-horned flour beetles, larger mandibles in males were linked to increased mating success but also reduced female reproductive ability.
Researchers discovered that reef fish punish blennies for stealing food without punishment, resulting in reduced future attacks on punishers. This behavior creates a public good, as all members of the species benefit from the punishment.
Researchers at New York University developed a method to shape solid materials, such as glass, metal, or stone, using a corn starch solution. By applying pressure from a motor-powered sphere through the solution, they can create precise indentations and depressions in the material.
Researchers at Harvard University project an estimated 42% of American adults will be obese by 2050, driven by the accelerating spread of obesity via social networks. The study found that non-obese individuals have a 2% chance of becoming obese annually, which increases with each obese social contact.
McGill researchers develop method to evaluate pork quality using light waves, enabling more accurate sorting of meat according to export markets. The technique has potential to improve industry workers' jobs and production quality.
Researchers found that Americans aged 55 to 64 have higher rates of chronic diseases than their peers in England, but died at the same rate. In contrast, Americans age 65 and older had a lower death rate than similar people in England due to better medical care.
Researchers at the Missouri Botanical Garden have identified eight new plant species in the Madidi National Park and surrounding areas in northern Bolivia. The new species, including Prestonia leco and Passiflora madidiana, are from diverse genera and families and have been assigned a provisional conservation status of Vulnerable.
Dr. Edith P. Mitchell, a clinical professor at Thomas Jefferson University, has been named Physician of the Year by CancerCare for her expertise in treating gastrointestinal cancers. She is being recognized for her innovative research and teaching on new drug evaluations and chemotherapy strategies.