BGI unveils new global collaborative projects including the Million Genomes Project, Rice Genome Project, and 1% Danes' Genome Project. These initiatives will advance our understanding of species genome, agricultural productivity, and human disease. The projects aim to sequence millions of genomes to improve crop yields, develop person...
Professor Doug Hilton has received the 2011 Research Australia Leadership and Innovation Award for his pioneering work on blood formation and signalling. His efforts led to thousands of Australians attending 'Rallies for Research' in support of maintaining medical research funding, ultimately protecting public health care.
Invasive species like ship rats and non-native birds can become essential to ecosystems when native pollinators disappear. Researchers found that these 'alien' species perform similar functions as extinct native pollinators in New Zealand's North Island.
A recent study by Queen's University found that TV viewing, but not computer use, predicted higher cardio-metabolic risk in children. This suggests that limiting screen time, particularly TV viewing, may be an effective way to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease in young people.
Higher quality livers come from ducks with active fat-storing cells, while lower quality livers have cells struggling with high fat levels. Analyzing liver proteins revealed a key factor in determining foie gras quality.
A study found that tripling the standard daily dosage of clopidogrel for patients with a genetic variation improving response to the medication significantly reduced platelet reactivity. Higher doses also improved platelet reactivity in those without the variant gene, guiding further clinical studies.
A new study found that false confessions are a common cause of errors in evidence, with 25% of exonerated individuals having made false confessions. The study suggests that juries and judges may be misled by false confessions, leading to miscarriages of justice.
Researchers have created a computer model that can study interactions between molecules, such as those between a drug and its target. The software, developed by Georgia Tech Professor David Sherrill's team, allows for faster analysis of larger molecules than any other program in existence.
Flu strains migrate globally, evolving along the way, contradicting the theory that they come from tropical areas. Influenza viruses in tropical regions show relatively low levels of genetic diversity and no seasonal fluctuations.
Scientists have developed new approaches to boost the effectiveness of enzymes involved in breaking down toxic pollutants such as PCBs. By modifying amino acids and updating mechanisms, researchers can create more flexible mutant enzymes that can metabolize a wider range of substrates.
According to Northwestern University researchers, over 83% of men and 72% of women will be overweight or obese in 2020. The implications of not improving cardiovascular health by 20% could lead to a reversal of declining rates of sickness and death from cardiovascular disease.
A study published in Annals of Oncology found that nearly half of male breast cancer patients on tamoxifen experience significant side effects, including weight gain and sexual dysfunction. The research highlights the need for better understanding and awareness of treatment risks and benefits.
New research reveals a significant pattern of antibiotic overuse in the southeastern United States, with higher rates than other regions. The study highlights increased use of fluoroquinolones and declining market share for penicillins, which could accelerate resistance to these powerful drugs.
A new mathematical model developed by Stanford University scientists can help guide attempts to improve blood-based tumor detection methods. The model predicts that tumors can grow for 10 years or longer before detection using current blood tests, but may allow early detection within a shorter timeframe with the right biomarker.
A new Cornell University review article finds that powerful environmental cues are subconsciously bending willpower every day. Portion size emerged as one of the most powerful links to overeating, with package size playing a significant role.
Researchers found that psoriasis patients have a higher number of smaller LDL particles and reduced HDL efflux capacity compared to controls, suggesting an underlying mechanism by which the inflammatory skin disease impacts cardiovascular health.
A Yale-led team found that deforestation in northern latitudes has a net cooling effect due to increased albedo from snow cover and reduced absorption of solar radiation. Temperatures decrease by an average of 1.5 degrees Fahrenheit north of Minnesota.
Researchers discovered a surprising link between deforestation and temperature changes, finding that areas north of 45 degrees latitude experience cooling effects due to increased albedo. However, this effect is not observed at lower latitudes, where deforestation may actually contribute to warming.
The first-ever issue of Public Policy & Aging Report on lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) aging explores gaps in policy and research on LGBT older adults. The report highlights significant barriers they face, including poor health outcomes and social isolation, and proposes alternative policy solutions.
A drug-coated balloon inserted into a narrowed bare metal stent restores blood flow by reducing scar tissue development, as effectively as drug-eluting stents. The treatment reduces the body's reaction to a metal jacket in arteries, offering an alternative to traditional stents.
Researchers developed a new MRI technique called Arterial spin labeling (ASL) to measure changes in brain function, potentially replacing the current standard PET scan. The study found that ASL-MRI is comparable to FDG-PET in detecting Alzheimer's disease and has the advantage of being non-invasive and widely available.
A new review of research into childhood obesity and metabolic disease in adulthood suggests that treating obesity during childhood can remove the risk of lasting harm. However, the study also found that being overweight or obese as a child may actually increase the risk of health problems later in life.
Researchers at Wayne State University will study a novel antibiotic, daptomycin, to treat vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus (VRE) infections and decrease mortality. The goal is to determine the optimal doses of daptomycin to achieve greater bactericidal activity and prevent resistance.
Researchers discover a novel combination of a sugar molecule and two cell-killing drugs that induces programmed cell death in various types of cancer cells. The treatment, which works by depriving cancer cells of their energy source, shows promise in treating leukemia, hepatocarcinoma, lung, breast, and cervical cancers.
Research finds that exposure to PCB 126 affects turtles' growth, leading to lower bone density, thinner eggshells, and softer shells. The study provides insights into the environmental impact of PCBs on humans.
John E. Wennberg, MD, MPH, received the first MacLean Center Prize in Clinical Ethics and Health Outcomes for his pioneering research on clinical medical ethics and health outcomes. His studies have revealed patterns of practice variation and the importance of patient engagement in decision making.
Researchers reveal the geological history behind the formation of the Gamburtsev Subglacial Mountains, which took place over the last billion years. The discovery sheds light on mountain building and ice sheet evolution within continental interiors.
Scientists identify a gene that controls hemicellulose acetylation, a major obstacle to producing biofuels from non-food sources. Blocking this enzyme could lead to a 10% reduction in bioethanol price and pave the way for more cost-effective production of biofuels.
Researchers found a rare gene called NRXN3 plays an important role in brain development and neuron functions, linked to impulsivity and substance abuse. The study suggests this genetic connection may be more prevalent among men than women.
The APS/DFD Virtual Press Room features a gallery of evocative images and animations that bring the science of fluid dynamics to life. These visual representations provide important scientific insights into complex flow phenomena.
A new device developed at the University of Colorado Cancer Center uses gold nanoparticles to detect lung cancer in exhaled breath, distinguishing between small-cell and non-small-cell lung cancer. The device has shown promising results in preliminary studies, with the potential to revolutionize lung cancer screening and diagnosis.
A new study by the American Psychological Association found that perceived racism can cause mental health symptoms similar to trauma in black Americans. Researchers analyzed 66 studies and found a robust link between racism experiences and self-reported depression and anxiety.
Scientists have developed a new smart polymer that breaks apart into small pieces in response to harmless levels of irradiation, paving the way for safe medical applications of tissue-penetrating light. The material has potential for use in diagnosing diseases and engineering new human tissues in the lab.
The technology allows for creating detailed objects from various materials, including plastics, metals, and foods like chocolate. Engineers can print designer chocolates, gourmet meals, and medical devices with embedded proteins and cells.
A UTHealth study reveals that patients who call 911 for heart attacks arrive at hospitals 30 minutes faster but still have higher mortality rates due to being more critically ill. The study found that those who call 911 are three times more likely to die, highlighting the need for improved pre-hospital treatment.
The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons has released a new clinical practice guideline for treating supracondylar humerus fractures in children. The guideline recommends stabilizing the fracture with pins and treating circulation problems, while emphasizing the importance of evaluating each child's individual circumstances. The fu...
Experts from the Rusk Institute of Rehabilitation Medicine will discuss advances in personalized medicine for neuromuscular care, as well as treatment strategies for traumatic brain injuries. They will also explore the integration of handheld technologies into practice management.
Researchers found that partying, drinking, and work trigger smoking recall among college students, who tend to start smoking at the beginning of the semester and on weekends. The study suggests targeting interventions during these periods for maximum impact.
Researchers at VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland have discovered the SHARPIN protein, which regulates human cell activity and movement. The study's findings may have significant implications for conditions such as Crohn's disease, psoriasis, rheumatism and multiple sclerosis.
Researchers at Arizona State University have created a new compound crystal material that can enhance the capabilities of computers, improve internet efficiency, increase solar cell conversion rates, and improve solid-state lighting. The new material contains 1,000 times more erbium atoms than previous compounds, providing superior opt...
A study published in The Lancet found that around 1 in 12 adolescents self-harm, with girls being more likely to do so. Most participants who self-harmed as teens stopped doing so by their early twenties.
A recent study of young chimpanzees reveals that they engage in playful behavior during infancy and develop complex social play patterns, similar to those of human children. The research also found that both humans and chimps prefer peer play partners and use facial expressions to communicate and build social networks.
The genome of Medicago, a legume model, reveals insights into the evolution of nitrogen-fixing symbioses that can be partly attributed to a 58 million-year-old genetic event. The study found additional genes specialized for root nodulation and interaction with symbiotic bacteria.
A Kansas State University research group has developed a program to prevent childhood obesity by targeting young children and their parents through child care. The HOP'N Home program, which includes elements such as adult-led activities and snack time, aims to promote healthy eating and physical activity among 3- to 5-year-olds.
A modified Story Memory Technique was found to be effective in improving learning and memory deficits in people with multiple sclerosis. The treatment group showed greater activation in a widespread cortical network, indicating improved cognitive function.
Paul Kubes, a University of Calgary researcher, has won the 2011 Canada's Health Researcher of the Year award for his groundbreaking work on visualizing the mammalian immune system. His research focuses on understanding sepsis and its relationship to other diseases such as stroke, cancer, and diabetes.
Researchers found that taking a probiotic before radiation therapy can protect the intestine from damage in mice, and may help prevent similar problems in human patients. The probiotic Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG protected the lining of the small intestine in mice exposed to radiation.
Researchers at Arizona State University are working on a project to improve the performance of technology in extreme environments, supported by a $1.7 million grant from the Defense Threat Reduction Agency. The team is focusing on specialized materials that can withstand high radiation and extreme temperatures.
Research finds areas with highest amphibian species richness are most vulnerable to threats. The study suggests multiple drivers of extinction may accelerate population declines over the next decades.
A CU-Boulder study of twins reveals that genetic factors are playing a larger role in smoking habits, with identical twins more likely to quit together. The study suggests that current anti-smoking policies may be less effective and could benefit from a shift towards treating smoking as an addiction.
A study found that Transcendental Meditation significantly decreased psychological distress in at-risk minority secondary school students. The technique showed a 36% reduction in overall psychological distress and improved trait anxiety and depressive symptoms.
Researchers developed a novel compound that blocks bacterial adhesion to bladder walls, alleviating weeks-long infections in mice. The treatment has the potential to treat antibiotic-resistant UTIs and may be effective against other types of infections.
The Royal Arch Masons have awarded a $100,000 grant to Autism Speaks to investigate auditory processing disorders in children with autism. The grant aims to create better outcomes for children at risk of developing both ASD and CAPD by addressing precursor symptoms of auditory processing disorders.
Researchers at Albert Einstein College of Medicine discovered that cancer cells use autophagy, a natural recycling process, to obtain energy. By blocking this process, the study found that tumor growth and metastasis can be stopped, providing potential new strategy for cancer treatments.
A new study examines changes in siblings one year after their brother or sister dies from cancer, finding positive and negative shifts in relationships and personality. Siblings reported greater maturity, compassion, and life priority changes compared to parents.
The BBVA Foundation-funded Tumor Biomarkers Research Program aims to develop targeted therapies for various types of cancer, including colorectal, breast, and lung cancer. The program will utilize biomarkers to identify unique molecular characteristics in each patient's tumor.
A NYU Steinhardt professor has received a $720,000 grant to investigate the link between insulin and obesity-related cancers. Her research aims to understand how insulin affects cancer cell growth and development, particularly in relation to carbohydrate diets.
Hepcidin, a hormone that regulates iron levels, may be targeted to treat atherosclerosis. Suppressing hepcidin reduces iron levels in white blood cells, promoting reverse cholesterol transport and interfering with atherosclerosis progression.
A special issue of Arthritis Care & Research provides over 250 patient outcomes measures for assessing adult pain, including tools for measuring sleep, fatigue, physical function, and depression. The updates aim to improve the care of patients with rheumatic conditions.
Researchers developed a new model that considers colonization and extinction rates at both breeding and non-breeding sites for migratory species. This approach can help conservators better understand the population dynamics of species like piping plovers.