The VCU Medical Center is leading a national clinical trial of a portable, mechanical driver that can power patients' artificial hearts outside the hospital environment. The device allows stable patients to recuperate in their own homes until a donor heart becomes available for transplant.
A team from Case Western Reserve University has identified a novel dual recognition mechanism in Mycobacterium tuberculosis that may contribute to immune evasion. The discovery could aid in the design of new vaccines and antibiotics to combat the disease.
A new method devised by Carnegie Mellon researchers enables computers to gain a deeper understanding of an image by reasoning about physical constraints. The method uses virtual blocks to build a three-dimensional approximation of the scene, improving accuracy in estimating layout and surface details.
The International Serious Adverse Events Consortium (SAEC) will collaborate with Newcastle University to research the genetics of drug-induced liver injury. The collaboration aims to develop larger and more diverse collections of subjects to better understand the genetic effects contributing to these diseases.
Researchers will use genome sequencing and equipment to profile small RNA expression in plants, aiming to improve biomass yields and quality for bioenergy production. The project focuses on Miscanthus and other grasses with high potential biomass yields.
The book provides a historical overview of the American Society of Agronomy's role in shaping global agricultural practices. It also delves into future trends and challenges, including changing diets, biofuels, and under-investment in research, to ensure a sustainable food system for the coming century.
Scientists have discovered a strategy to prevent Alzheimer's-associated traffic jams in the brain by reducing tau protein levels. By blocking amyloid beta proteins, which disrupt transport of vital cargoes between brain cells, researchers found that tau reduction effectively prevents such traffic jams.
A new study by Syracuse University researchers reveals that the lack of FSC-certified sawmills and wood in New York state is causing a bottleneck for green construction. As a result, builders are forced to purchase FSC-certified wood outside of the state at a premium price.
The American Society of Agronomy announces award recipients for their exceptional work in education, national and international service, and research. The awards honor individuals who have made significant contributions to the field of agronomy.
This special edition of The Hastings Center Report examines the promise and pitfalls of personalized medicine, from direct-to-consumer genetic testing to hospice care. Key findings include the need for thousands of human biospecimens for genetic studies, as well as debates over individual mandates in healthcare reform.
Researchers found that early cotton planting boosts yield only with irrigation. In non-irrigated plots, early planting resulted in decreased production, even experiencing a 13% decline in yield one year.
Researchers investigated familial prosopagnosia, a condition where individuals have trouble recognizing faces. The study found that changes in lighting conditions and viewing angles affected their ability to recognize faces, suggesting an inability to form robust mental representations of faces.
A team of researchers from Mayo Clinic used electronic medical records (EMRs) to launch a genome-wide association study of peripheral arterial disease (PAD), which affects approximately eight million Americans. The study demonstrates the feasibility of leveraging EMRs for genetic research, offering advantages over traditional approaches.
Scientists at NPL have developed a new strategy for quicker and more precise detection of biomarkers, proteins indicating disease. This approach uses a probe to 'fish' for likely proteins in crowded blood samples, potentially leading to earlier diagnosis and treatment of Alzheimer's and cancer.
Researchers have identified bilirubin as the primary aril pigment in Strelitzia reginae, the Bird of Paradise plant. This discovery expands our understanding of color production in plants and has potential applications for breeding and genetics.
Researchers have identified two genes, ARID1A and PPP2R1A, whose mutations are linked to ovarian clear cell carcinoma, a highly aggressive form of ovarian cancer. The study found that ARID1A mutations were present in over half of the tumors studied, suggesting a significant role in this type of cancer.
In France, nearly half of new HIV infections occur among men who have sex with men, accounting for 48% of new cases in 2008. Incidence is 200 times higher than in the French heterosexual population.
Brown University researchers have discovered the structure of three types of proteins that don't have a fixed shape, revealing how they interact with other proteins to regulate important biological processes. The findings provide new insights into the complex mechanisms underlying these proteins' functions.
Researchers at Notre Dame are developing and assessing image-based biometrics technologies using twins, including facial and iris recognition. They found that human observers can correctly classify pairs of twins with 80% accuracy, suggesting new possibilities for automated iris analysis.
Researchers at Vetmeduni Vienna identified a novel mechanism by which Mycoplasma agalactiae switches its surface protein genes. The so-called phase variation is caused by alterations in short DNA sequences controlled by an enzyme called recombinase. This process enables the organism to avoid host defense mechanisms during infection.
A new Pacific Institute report identifies key actions for California to conserve a million acre-feet of water through improved efficiency in the urban and agricultural sectors. The analysis finds that upfront investments of less than $1.9 billion can yield significant savings, while also conserving energy and reducing costs.
Researchers found that adding primaquine to fixed-dose artemisinin combination treatments significantly reduces gametocyte carriage, a key factor in malaria transmission. The artesunate-mefloquine regimen showed the highest cure rate and lowest rates of reinfection.
A University of Georgia study identifies a critical enzyme called MEC-17 that regulates microtubule acetylation in the nervous system. The finding could lead to new treatments for neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's, which have altered levels of acetylation marks on microtubules.
Researchers have identified a new gene required for memory formation in Drosophila, which may have similar functions in humans. The discovery sheds light on neurological disorders such as Alzheimer's disease and could lead to new insights into cognitive enhancement.
Researchers used Landsat data to map areas hardest hit by mountain pine beetles and found that large fires do not appear to occur more often or with greater severity. Beetle-killed forest swaths may actually be less likely to burn due to the breakdown of flammable volatile oils, and standing dead tree trunks can act as natural fire logs.
Researchers have identified a gene mutation that confers resistance to the antibiotic clindamycin in malaria parasites. The findings suggest that current diagnostic tests may be inadequate and highlight the need for new treatment strategies. This study contributes to our understanding of the genetic basis of drug resistance in malaria.
A study found that quercetin and ferulic acid aggravated kidney cancer in severely diabetic laboratory rats, raising concerns about their safety. The researchers recommend reevaluating the safety of plant-based antioxidants until further evidence is available.
A new PhysiScore system developed by Stanford researchers can accurately predict the health of premature infants with a high degree of accuracy, potentially reducing healthcare costs. The system uses real-time data and machine learning algorithms to identify subtle patterns in the complex data about these young patients.
The United Nations' Food and Agriculture Organization has launched a new online fire detection system using NASA satellite data, providing daily fire maps and images. The system enables firefighters to respond more efficiently and reduces the risk of wildfires and associated pollutants.
A study found that insulin lowered inflammation and oxidative stress in participants injected with LPS, a common bacteria. Insulin also reduced pro-inflammatory factors and reactive oxygen species generated by the endotoxin.
A new study found that a Peruvian parasite population had significant genetic instability near the telomere, leading to missed diagnoses from rapid diagnostic tests. The researchers also identified a gene mutation that confers resistance to clindamycin, a commonly administered drug for treating malaria in pregnant women and infants.
A study found that infected cows' retinas emit a characteristic glow when exposed to light, potentially leading to an inexpensive diagnostic test. This breakthrough could help prevent the spread of mad cow disease in the food supply.
A new study found that cancer-related cachexia can cause significant damage to the heart in mice with colon cancer. Researchers observed reduced heart function and changes in heart muscle structure, as well as signs of damage in the mitochondria and increased fibrous tissue.
Household dust contains up to 1000 microbial species, including both beneficial and harmful bacteria. Studying these microorganisms is crucial for maintaining indoor air quality and preventing health issues such as allergies and asthma.
A study by Maurice Levi, Kai Li, and Feng Zhang finds that high testosterone levels in CEOs negotiating mergers and acquisitions are associated with a higher rate of dropped deals and increased hostile takeover attempts. Younger CEOs with high testosterone levels tend to reject low offers, even if it's against their interest.
A new software, Myrna, uses cloud computing to analyze RNA sequencing data at an unprecedented speed and cost-effectiveness. The software calculated differential expression from 1.1 billion reads in under 2 hours for a cost of around $66.
Eric Lambin's research integrates remote satellite imagery with door-to-door interviews to understand the complex conditions giving rise to land-use challenges. He has uncovered the political, economic, and social forces driving deforestation and reforestation trends worldwide.
The American Diabetes Association supports the national restaurant menu labeling legislation to provide healthier options for consumers. Registered dietitians and dietetic technicians will play a crucial role in helping clients make informed choices.
A study found that almost three-quarters of cats in a six-month study wore collars consistently, with 60% exceeding owners' expectations. The researchers suggest including collar discussion during annual wellness exams and microchipping as a backup identification method.
A team of astronomers has confirmed the presence of an extreme ultra-luminous X-ray source in a nearby galaxy, which may indicate the presence of an intermediate mass black hole. The object, HLX-1, is located ~300 million light years from Earth and emits radiation 100 times brighter than most other objects in its class.
Researchers have discovered that young bedbug nymphs release aldehyde pheromones to signal to males that they should look elsewhere, providing a new insight into the chemical communication system of bed bugs. This finding may lead to the development of mating disruption techniques to decrease bed bug populations.
A study by Heike Allgayer's team found that micro-RNA miR-200c inhibits the motility and invasive capacity of non-small cell lung cancer cells. Higher miR-200c levels were associated with increased tissue-anchoring molecules and lower metastasis rates.
A recent UCI study discovered that liver defects may be a likely cause of low levels of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) in Alzheimer's patients. The research found that DHA is not only essential for brain health but also plays a crucial role in preventing the neurodegenerative disease.
A fungus-based biological control agent, Beauveria bassiana, is enhanced with a sunscreen made from soybean oil and ferulic acid to protect its spores from sunlight. The 'soyscreen' successfully protects the spores for 28 weeks, improving its effectiveness in wiping out insect pests.
A team of researchers from the University of Illinois will investigate the health effects of botanical estrogens, including phytoestrogens from soy and other plants. The study aims to determine whether these compounds have beneficial or detrimental effects on human health.
A new study reveals that some classes of interneurons may underlie distinct brain disorders, such as epilepsy and autism. The research suggests that precise dysfunction in specific circuits can lead to these disorders, shedding light on potential future treatments.
The risk of beetle outbreaks in western North America's forests is expected to increase significantly due to rising temperatures. Climate change is projected to boost spruce and mountain pine beetles' populations, leading to widespread tree mortality.
Swine researchers found that fiber in distillers dried grains with solubles (DDGS) is poorly utilized by pigs, with less than 50% digestibility. Soluble fiber, like pectins and oligosaccharides, is easily fermentable, but insoluble fibers are harder to digest.
A historic conference at Uppsala University marked a turning point in the fight against antibiotic resistance. Global leaders agreed on joint action and shared data to monitor and limit unnecessary use of antibiotics, as well as improve access to affordable medicines in developing countries.
A University of Bristol team argues that the skeletal remains found in a Vergina tomb do not match historical records of Arrhidaios, a lesser-known figure. The remains show signs of cremation 'green' and a healed fracture on one skull, which may indicate Philip II's lost eye was transferred.
Researchers found that NGP 555 selectively targets gamma secretase, reducing Aβ42 and amyloid pathology in a transgenic mouse model. Chronic administration led to significant reduction in diffuse and neuritic plaques without GI side effects.
A team of Caltech researchers discovered that consumers assign higher values to goods they can physically interact with. In experiments, subjects bid an average of 50% more for tactile experiences than visual or text-based presentations.
The Southwest Oncology Group has selected five young investigators to attend a three-day workshop in Seattle, where they will receive intensive training on designing and conducting cancer clinical trials. The YITC program provides mentorship and career support to promising researchers.
Researchers have identified Gαq as a key protein that determines the fate of damaging cells, leading to autoimmune disorders like arthritis. The discovery offers new hope for treatments and personalized therapy for patients.
Researchers developed a statistical model to detect early warning signs of extinction in deteriorating environments, which can predict the approach to a tipping point. This study has implications for understanding drastic changes in complex systems, including the human brain and ecosystems.
Researchers have discovered a small molecule, IU1, that helps human cells get rid of misfolded proteins implicated in Alzheimer's disease and other neurodegenerative ailments. This potential drug could have applications for other conditions as well.
A new report estimates that repealing birthright citizenship would increase the US unauthorized population by at least 5 million over the next decade. The report, conducted by Penn State professor Jennifer Van Hook and the Migration Policy Institute, analyzes the demographic impact of such a repeal on the nation's population.
A high-fat diet causes brain cells to become insulated, rendering them unable to detect signals of fullness. The insulation also creates a further complication in that the body is unable to detect signals to increase energy use and burn off calories.
Researchers have invalidated the most commonly used model to explain the behavior of highly mismatched alloys, which could lead to more efficient solar cells. By using molecular beam epitaxy, they created gallium arsenide nitride alloys with nitrogen that can tap into infrared radiation.
The study found that indoor falls are associated with an inactive lifestyle, disability, and poor health, while outdoor falls are linked to higher activity levels and better-than-average health. Outdoor falls also occur more frequently among younger, healthier individuals.