A team of MIT chemical engineers has created a new detector that can pick up a single molecule of an explosive such as TNT, surpassing the sensitivity of existing explosives detectors. The sensor uses protein fragments to recognize nitro-aromatic compounds and can identify unique 'fingerprints' for different explosives.
A mathematical approach has been developed to make complex combination vaccines more affordable for developing countries. The model considers key factors in providing accessible vaccines, including production capacity and pricing strategies.
A team of researchers has detailed the molecular mechanism by which FTY270 causes adverse effects in the lungs of mice with multiple sclerosis. The study suggests that developing a drug targeting S1P receptors on immune cells could provide a therapeutic with decreased side effects.
Stephen L. Boehm II, Ph.D., a behavioral neuroscientist at IUPUI, has been awarded the 2011 Young Scientist of the Year by the International Behavioural and Neural Genetics Society for his research on binge drinking's impact on gamma-aminobutyric acid neural circuits. His lab is also recognized for its mentorship of students.
A recent study published in the Journal of Conflict Resolution found that reducing unemployment does not decrease insurgent attacks against government and allied forces. The researchers tested this prediction in Afghanistan, Iraq, and the Philippines using survey data on unemployment and two newly available measures of insurgency.
Researchers have found that minute particles of pyrite from hydrothermal vents are a rich source of iron in the deep sea, providing a nutrient supplement for tiny plants and bacteria. This iron is released as these particles travel through the ocean, making them an important food source for life in the deep sea.
A Mayo Clinic study found that it takes an average of 275 procedures to reach minimal cognitive and motor competency in gastroenterology fellows performing colonoscopies. The research team used a validated testing method to assess the performance of 41 fellows who performed over 6,600 colonoscopies.
A report by Princeton University engineers suggests that removing carbon dioxide from the air is not a viable economic solution for slowing climate change. The study found that such technologies would be more expensive than preventing emissions in the first place.
The AGA recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to gastroenterology through various awards, including the Julius Friedenwald Medal and Distinguished Achievement Award. These recipients are leaders in their field and have made remarkable impacts on gastroenterological practice and research.
A group of mitochondrial proteins, known as MTC proteins, has been identified by researchers at the University of Gothenburg as playing a crucial role in regulating the aging process. The study found that these proteins help to stabilize the genome and remove damaged proteins, leading to increased lifespan.
Scientists at Johns Hopkins University developed an approach to sensitize prostate cancer cells to radiation therapy by knocking down the expression of a gene responsible for DNA repair. Meanwhile, researchers at Weill Cornell Medical College found that a multiple sclerosis drug causes adverse effects in the lungs by degrading S1P rece...
Access to fresh and healthy foods is crucial for long-term food security, according to Michelle Kaiser. Increasing local food production can reduce economic and environmental impacts of transporting food, enabling people to avoid processed, unhealthy foods.
Researchers at the Ragon Institute identified variations in peptide stability that alter targeting of infected cells by CD8 T cells. The study found that specific mutations can reduce peptide stability, impairing immune response and increasing HIV resistance.
The study's genome-wide characterization of rust fungi may help develop control strategies for worldwide threats to wheat fields and tree plantations. Researchers uncovered evidence that both pathogens have large numbers of effector proteins, indicating co-evolution with host plants.
The new EarthScope National Office at ASU aims to explore and discover the 4-D structure and evolution of the North American continent. The program deploys thousands of seismic instruments across the US, providing unprecedented data on Earth's dynamics.
Scientists selectively sensitized prostate cancer cells to radiation therapy by knocking down a key protein repair gene. The approach shows promise for treating locally advanced prostate cancer, reducing disease recurrence.
A recent study published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal found that Canadian Inuit have similar diabetes levels to the general population, contrary to previous assumptions. Researchers analyzed data from over 2,500 participants and found that obesity rates were high among Inuit, with 28% being overweight and 35% obese.
A recent report from the National Institutes of Health found insufficient evidence linking modifiable factors to Alzheimer's disease risk. The panel concluded that large-scale studies and clinical trials are needed to answer these questions. Researchers urge individuals to maintain a healthy lifestyle despite current uncertainty.
A study found that CTPA screening led to a 81% increase in PE diagnoses, but only a 3% decrease in mortality rates. The authors suggest overdiagnosis due to the detection of clinically insignificant small emboli.
Researchers have successfully used oncolytic viruses to infect and kill pancreatic cancer stem cells, which are thought to cause disease recurrence and metastasis. This breakthrough could provide a potential therapy for pancreatic cancer patients, particularly those with tumors resistant to conventional chemotherapy and radiation.
Researchers at the Boys Town National Research Hospital found that noisy classrooms significantly affect young students' ability to learn. Meanwhile, a new study on deaf infants with cochlear implants shows they don't automatically know how to listen when people speak. Cognitive psychologists also explored the power of single words in ...
A new biomarker for diagnosing prostate cancer has been found to be more reliable than current methods, reducing false positives and unnecessary operations. The study, published in PNAS, uses a unique test that detects elevated levels of prostasomes in blood, which are released by cancer cells into the surrounding tissue.
German and US researchers have successfully calculated the Hoyle state, an energy-rich form of the carbon nucleus. This achievement is crucial for understanding how life began and may even allow answering philosophical questions using science.
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) occurs in 20-51% of patients with an orthopaedic injury, hindering recovery and daily activities. Effective treatment includes therapy, medications, and prevention strategies to mitigate symptoms and improve outcomes.
Researchers have developed a new technique for analyzing the local chemical composition and structure of nanoscale materials. The nano-FTIR instrument uses thermal radiation to focus light onto a sample, allowing for high-resolution imaging and spectroscopy of single nanoparticles or devices.
The Lancet series highlights Brazil's successes in healthcare, but also notes areas of concern such as high caesarean section rates and increasing obesity. The country's experience offers valuable lessons for addressing health inequities and implementing reforms to prioritize public health.
Researchers in China and Hong Kong found that Facebook usage improves academic and social integration among students. Students reported using Facebook to maintain friendships, share knowledge, and collaborate with peers, suggesting its potential in enhancing learning outcomes.
The Kunming Institute of Botany, part of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, and Springer are launching a new fully sponsored open access journal called Natural Products and Bioprospecting. This journal aims to serve as an international forum for essential research on natural products and their applications.
Studies found that psychological issues contribute to gastrointestinal symptoms severity, while low-intensity exercise decreases colon polyps risk, particularly among overweight individuals. Mindfulness meditation also improves IBS symptoms and reduces pain.
A new algorithm allows for high-capacity data hiding in executable files, providing a secure way to embed and conceal data. The technology can be used on various devices, including smartphones and tablets.
Despite significant improvements in child survival interventions and education, Brazil still faces challenges in reducing maternal mortality rates and increasing access to healthcare, particularly in rural areas.
A meta-analysis of proton pump inhibitor use found a 29% increase in fracture risk, particularly hip and vertebral fractures. Clinicians should carefully consider PPI prescription, especially for patients with elevated fracture risk.
Researchers found that teenagers assign great value to digital photos, music collections, and online artifacts due to their ability to be shared and personalized. The study suggests that technology design could incorporate a fuller appreciation of these sentiments, leading to new products and services.
Bats' varying ear shapes influence biosonar functionality, with implications for engineering applications such as SONAR and RADAR. The study's findings provide insights into the role of biodiversity in customizing general principles for different species.
Researchers found an 81% increase in PE incidence after CTPA introduction, with a decrease in mortality and case fatality rates. However, CTPA also led to a significant increase in presumed anticoagulation complications, highlighting the need for more precise diagnostic tools.
Brazil's unique national health service has improved health outcomes, but socioeconomic disparities and regional inequalities remain. The authors emphasize the need for coordinated action among government, private sector, academia, and civil society to address these challenges and secure universal access to healthcare.
A new study confirms that 'healthy' smokers exhibit gene expression changes similar to those of patients with moderate and severe COPD. Smoking is identified as a critical factor in causing these alterations. The findings support the need for developing new therapies to slow down COPD progression.
A study published in The Lancet highlights Brazil's success in reducing the burden of infectious diseases, but notes that some programs have failed to control diseases like dengue fever. Despite this, experts argue that investing in human and social capital has led to sustainable economic growth and improved health outcomes.
Researchers discover gamma deltaintraepithelial lymphocytes (γδ IEL) play a crucial role in maintaining friendly relations between gut microbes and intestinal lining. These cells patrol intestinal borders, sensing microbial invasion and producing antibiotic proteins to prevent rogue bacteria from spreading to deeper tissue.
Researchers confirm theoretical predictions and discover edge-states in graphene nanoribbons, exhibiting unique electronic properties. The findings open the possibility of building quick-acting, energy-efficient nanoscale devices from graphene-nanoribbon switches.
Research at DDW 2011 presents innovative detection practices to increase liver disease detection rates and prevent premature death. Vaccination rates against hepatitis A and B in patients with chronic liver disease are low, highlighting the need for increased vaccination efforts.
A new study found a strong correlation between income levels and celiac disease diagnosis accuracy, with higher-income individuals more likely to receive accurate diagnoses. The study's authors suggest that socioeconomic factors, including health literacy and access to information, may contribute to this disparity.
Researchers developed an iPhone application that can diagnose stroke with high accuracy, using noncontrast computed tomography (NCCT) and CT angiogram head scans. The technology allows doctors to analyze images in real-time from anywhere, providing critical access to specialists.
A potential celiac disease vaccine, Nexvax2, has demonstrated safety and efficacy in a Phase I clinical trial, with the goal of treating the autoimmune disease by desensitizing patients to specific gluten peptides. The vaccine is expected to enter Phase II trials within the next year.
Research finds UK betting shops are drawing in a new type of customer, particularly young males and ethnic minority groups, with the use of fixed odds betting terminals. These machines are associated with higher risks of problem gambling due to their fast-paced nature and high stakes.
Researchers at Mayo Clinic's Zebrafish Core Facility successfully switched individual genes on and off in zebrafish, allowing them to observe embryonic and juvenile development. This breakthrough enables the study of protein function and its relation to health problems like cancer, heart attacks, and addiction.
Researchers from the University of Hawaii at Manoa used GPS data to find that a section of the eastern Andes is locked in place, allowing stress to build up and potentially leading to large earthquakes. The study suggests that earthquakes with magnitudes up to 8.9 are possible in the region.
A study found that celiac disease is more common among Massachusetts children born in the spring or summer, suggesting a link between gluten introduction timing and birth season. The study suggests rethinking gluten introduction for some children based on their birth season.
Research at Digestive Disease Week 2011 reveals that a high carbohydrate intake increases the risk of developing gallstones during pregnancy. Additionally, symptoms of lactose intolerance may actually be linked to somatoform disorders, which can lead to counterproductive behaviors like restrictive diets.
Research by Dr. Wei Ji Ma and colleagues found that the brain can perform visual search tasks near optimally, even in complex environments. By weighing different pieces of visual information based on reliability, humans can quickly integrate data to detect targets.
The American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (ASGE) held its seventh annual Crystal Awards dinner to recognize outstanding contributions to endoscopy. The event honored recipients of the Rudolf V. Schindler Award, Distinguished Service Award, and other prestigious awards.
A randomized trial found women are at more than double the short-term risk of stroke following carotid stenting compared to traditional surgery. This study suggests that sex should be considered when choosing treatment options for carotid disease, as men show little difference in stroke risk between procedures.
Researchers investigated zombie ants in Thailand's rainforest, finding they were manipulated by the fungus into dying at optimal conditions for reproduction. The fungus causes muscle atrophy, central nervous system damage, and 'lock jaw', forcing infected ants to bite leaves to release spores.
Researchers at UC Berkeley have developed a graphene-based optical device that can switch light on and off, enabling faster data transmission. The technology has the potential to revolutionize high-speed communications and computing, allowing for faster data streaming and processing.
Researchers detected adalimumab levels in cord blood and infants exposed to the medication in utero, highlighting the need for close monitoring of infection risk in newborns. The study suggests that pregnant women with Crohn's disease should not discontinue the medication, as it may exacerbate flares and lead to complications.
The Alliance for Global Good has partnered with Ben-Gurion University of the Negev to support research programs focused on education, water desalinization, and third-world healthcare. The partnership aims to improve access to fresh water and reduce the prevalence of neglected tropical diseases in Jordan and Ethiopia.
Researchers discovered a novel strain of Staphylococcus aureus, ST398, in an Iowa child care worker who reported no contact with livestock. The finding is an unexpected occurrence in a study examining the presence of Staphylococcus aureus in child day care facilities.
The American Gastroenterological Association (AGA) will present exciting, cutting-edge data during the Digestive Disease Week (DDW) meeting that will help change the way physicians diagnose and treat GI disorders. AGA researchers will focus on the latest research and clinical advances in gastroenterology.
A team of climate scientists has found that annually resolved tree-ring records from North America can be used to improve El Niño prediction in climate models. The study shows that the intensity of El Niño events has been highly variable, with decades of strong and weak activity over the past 1,100 years.
Researchers deciphered how hair stem cells communicate with each other to encourage mutually coordinated regeneration, holding potential for finding a cure for alopecia. The study's findings provide insight into potential stem cell behavior in other organs, which holds ramifications for regenerative medicine research.