A University of Iowa study finds that patients treated with antidepressants after a stroke have significantly greater improvement in physical recovery than those on placebo. The study demonstrates that this effect continues to improve for at least nine months after the medication is stopped.
The VA has seen significant improvements in healthcare quality over the last decade, with better care for seniors and patients with diabetes. However, racial disparities persist, with black veterans experiencing lower quality of care and fewer favorable outcomes compared to white veterans.
A study found that cosmic radiation accelerates atherosclerosis development in mice, worsening existing lesions. This discovery could inform treatment and prevention strategies for long-duration space missions.
Researchers have identified a macrocyclic lactone compound that female emerald ash borers release while feeding, attracting male borers. This discovery has the potential to improve traps for monitoring and controlling the tree-killing beetle.
A three-year follow-up study of patients with chronic hepatitis C who received long-term peginterferon therapy found increased mortality rates attributed to non-liver related causes, primarily in patients with bridging fibrosis. The excess mortality was mainly linked to unrelated complications and did not emerge until three years into ...
Researchers found that welders had an average 11.7 percent reduction in dopamine markers in the brain compared to non-welders, suggesting potential neurotoxic effects from manganese exposure. The study also revealed brain changes consistent with manganese deposits, highlighting a potential public health concern for U.S. workers.
Astronomers have updated the census of sun-like stars with data from NASA's Kepler Mission, detecting changes in brightness in 500 stars. This provides a much better understanding of the stars' properties and their evolution, allowing for detailed measurements of star basics such as mass and age.
Researcher Theresa Pape is developing therapies to jump-start the lives of patients with traumatic brain injury, often falling through the cracks of the medical system. Her innovative clinical trials test the effectiveness of familiar voice intervention and transcranial magnetic stimulation in awakening patients.
Melissa J. Moore, a professor at UMass Medical School, has been awarded the ASBMB's 2011 William C. Rose Award for her groundbreaking research on pre-mRNA processing and mRNA metabolism. She is also recognized for her exceptional mentorship and leadership skills.
Researchers at Albert Einstein College of Medicine have identified two molecules that help cancer cells spread inside the body. The study found that these molecules regulate RhoC activity, which is positively correlated with increased invasion and motility of tumor cells.
The Endocrine Society released a new Clinical Practice Guideline for the evaluation and treatment of pituitary incidentalomas. The guideline recommends a complete history and physical examination, including visual field examinations if necessary, for patients with a pituitary incidentaloma.
Axel T. Brunger, a Stanford University professor, has been awarded the inaugural DeLano Award for Computational Biosciences for his work on structural biology and crystallographic refinement methods. The award recognizes his contributions to making computer technology accessible to the scientific community.
The Society for Experimental Biology and Medicine has recognized seven outstanding young investigators with the 2011 Young Investigator Award. These researchers demonstrated originality, importance, and presentation of their data in various fields of study, including vascular dysfunction and skeletal muscle microvascular rarefaction.
Researchers unveiled groundbreaking cellular analysis tools, drug-delivery methods, and novel approaches to high-throughput drug discovery. The session highlighted advances in imaging and simultaneous identification of biological compounds, as well as the use of peptides as potential drugs and biological probes.
University of Miami scientists studied fossil records of coral communities from nine Caribbean countries to understand reef ecosystems during the Pliocene epoch. They found that free-living corals, well-suited to warm seas, experienced abrupt extinction as seawater cooled and nutrient levels decreased.
A study of 31 patients found that 77% stopped taking anti-tremor medications within a year after DBS surgery, with symptom improvement rates varying among patients. Long-term effects and potential need for continued medication are areas of future research focus.
Job Dekker, an associate professor at UMass Medical School, has been awarded the Young Investigator Award by the American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology. He developed methods to analyze millions of chromosome interactions in parallel, opening a new field of study.
A new supercomputer simulation reveals that the collision of two neutron stars can naturally produce the magnetic structures thought to power short gamma-ray bursts. The study provides the most detailed glimpse of the forces driving some of the universe's most energetic explosions.
Dozens of D.C.-area junior high science teachers will partner with college faculty to develop hands-on activities in biochemistry and molecular biology. The partnership aims to encourage students to pursue high-tech studies and careers, starting earlier in their education.
The American Thyroid Association has released new practice recommendations for outpatient radioiodine treatment, emphasizing travel precautions, personal hygiene, and pregnancy safety. The guidelines comply with US Nuclear Regulatory Commission regulations and provide simplified instructions for care providers and patients.
Researchers have developed a new method to generate induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) using microRNAs, increasing efficiency by 100-fold compared to traditional methods. This breakthrough has the potential to revolutionize regenerative medicine and tissue engineering.
A growing proportion of young people are using hookah water pipes despite misconceptions about its safety. Family habits, such as father or sibling smoking, significantly increase the likelihood of hookah use.
Cities worldwide are failing to protect residents from climate change impacts, despite billions of people being vulnerable to heat waves, sea level rise, and other changes. Fast-growing urban areas are particularly at risk, with many cities lacking effective strategies to safeguard their residents.
Research suggests that treatment for depression may have long-term benefits, with depressed adults who use antidepressants being three times less likely to be depressed eight years later. Cognitive behavioral therapy has also been shown to be effective in reducing symptoms of depression.
Gutierrez-Hartmann's efforts to encourage underrepresented minorities and mentor students have been recognized with the award. The ASBMB established the award to honor scientists who promote diversity in science.
A new study has found that a procedure used in preconception diagnosis to analyze mutant mitochondrial DNA in supporting cells may not accurately predict egg safety for pregnancy. The research highlights the limitations of using polar bodies as a proxy for eggs prior to in vitro fertilization.
Researchers at Scripps Research Institute found that an E. coli enzyme must move to function properly, and blocking these movements renders it defective. The study may lead to the development of more specific and effective drugs targeting enzymes.
A new process developed by Stanford researchers allows people to make IVF embryo donation decisions in private, reducing conflicts of interest. The study found that donors were equally likely to give consent for embryonic stem cell research or human development studies.
A review article in the Journal of Caffeine Research suggests that caffeine disrupts glucose metabolism, increasing insulin resistance and exacerbating blood glucose levels in people with diabetes. The study reveals potential harm of caffeine consumption for over 220 million individuals worldwide affected by type 2 diabetes.
A preclinical study found VitaKine PCT to significantly enhance cardiac function, increasing ejection fraction by 23%, compared to controls. The therapy contains white blood cells in specific ratios and concentrations, offering a precise approach to treating heart attack patients.
Men who are abused by their female partners can experience damaging psychological effects, such as post-traumatic stress disorder and depression. Research found that male victims are at a greater risk of developing PTSD if they have sought professional help after experiencing intimate terrorism.
Researchers at Northwestern University have developed a model that simulates how rats use their whiskers to sense objects around them. The model enables further research on the human sense of touch and may provide insights into new technologies that could utilize the whisker system.
A modified chemotherapy regimen combining reduced CHOP doses with rituximab has shown substantial response and improved survival in very elderly patients with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma. The R-miniCHOP regimen is well-tolerated, with a high overall response rate and low treatment toxicity.
Researchers at Oregon Health & Science University discovered a new approach to prevent ovarian cancer in high-risk women while maintaining fertility. The treatment involves removing the ovarian surface epithelium layer, which has no known function, without affecting ovary function or overall animal health.
A Johns Hopkins patient safety expert argues that current 'metrics' in healthcare are unreliable and hinder quality improvement efforts. He calls for the creation of standardized outcome measures to improve patient outcomes and transparency in data collection.
The Society for Experimental Biology and Medicine (SEBM) awarded its Best Paper Awards for articles published in 2010. These awards recognized excellence in Clinical/Preclinical and Translation Research, Experimental Biology, and Interdisciplinary Research categories. The winners were honored at the 2011 Experimental Biology Meeting.
At the 39th annual CAA conference, researchers will showcase their innovative approach to recording archaeological data using iPads, reducing time and improving accuracy. This 'Paperless' project utilizes digital technology to create a complete analysis of homes, shops, and businesses at Pompeii.
Brown and Goldstein will present their award lecture on the SREBP pathway and its application to cholesterol regulation at Experimental Biology 2011. The pair's joint discoveries have placed them at the forefront of regulatory biochemistry, a field pioneered by Earl Stadtman.
A recent study by Ohio State University researchers has identified a gene mutation that causes microcephalic osteodysplastic primoridal dwarfism type 1 (MOPD1), a rare developmental disorder. The defect, triggered by a tiny gene mutation, greatly slows growth in the uterus and causes severe brain and organ abnormalities.
Researchers confirm it is possible to make complex bamboo tools with simple stone tools, but find that prehistoric people preferred crudely made stone flakes instead. Bamboo knives were efficient for cutting meat but not hides, suggesting a preference for simpler tools.
Physicists at UC Berkeley used sensitive magnetometers to search for biomagnetism in the world's largest flower, but found no evidence of a strong magnetic field. Despite being unable to detect a significant magnetic signal, researchers believe studying biomagnetism in plants could lead to new discoveries.
Researchers found that cave fish sleep significantly less than surface fish, with an average of 110-250 minutes per day. Genetic studies revealed a dominant gene responsible for reduced sleep in cave fish, which may be linked to human insomnia and other sleep disorders.
Scientists have discovered ancient mollusk fossils that may indicate how warm the planet will become if carbon dioxide levels are stabilized at current values. The findings suggest summertime Arctic temperatures could increase by 2-5 degrees Fahrenheit, leading to a permanent ice cap melting and further heating the planet.
A new report links differences in brain structure to political orientation, finding that liberals have larger anterior cingulate cortexes and are better at coping with conflicting information, while conservatives have larger amygdalas and are more sensitive to threats.
Researchers discuss recent developments in DNA replication, recombination, and repair, highlighting their importance in cancer development and gene therapy. The thematic program brings together experts to present discoveries on aberrant DNA repair, site-specific recombination, and genomic instability.
The AAAS website provides detailed insights into US students' science knowledge, including incorrect ideas they hold. The site features test questions and analysis of correct and incorrect responses, helping educators identify gaps in understanding and improve instruction.
A recent study published in Ethology found that people with bloodshot eyes are perceived as sadder, unhealthier, and less attractive than those with untinted eye whites. The research tested 208 volunteers and showed that red eyes trigger perceptions of discomfort and affect how we perceive someone's emotional and biological state.
A new study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association found that video game treatment can significantly improve upper-arm motor function in stroke survivors. Virtual reality games showed promise as a promising and potentially useful alternative to traditional physiotherapy.
Scientists will present their work on reversing the obesity epidemic by understanding its molecular underpinnings. The conference will feature talks on emerging research, treatment options, and the impact of obesity on various bodily systems.
A new study reveals that exposure to vehicle pollution can cause significant brain damage in mice, including signs of memory loss and Alzheimer's disease. The tiny particles from burning fossil fuels and weathered car parts are too small for filters to trap, raising concerns about human health.
A video-based decision aid helped patients weigh the pros and cons of bariatric surgery, leading to greater certainty and less conflict. The trial found that patients who watched the video felt more informed and confident in their decisions.
Researchers at TUM have developed a geo-sensor system that can monitor unstable mountain slopes and detect movements. The system uses a combination of sensors, including coaxial cables and GPS, to track changes in the slope's structure.
A new study reveals that concentrated fish farm waste plumes do not consistently dilute immediately in open water. The research found that tides, currents, and the earth's rotation can dramatically affect how far waste plumes travel from their source.
Johnson was chosen for pioneering site-specific incorporation of non-natural amino acids and biophysical fluorescence approaches to study complex molecular machines. His work remains the most powerful tools to study biochemical systems, emphasizing mentorship over enterprise.
Researchers have discovered a new way to reprogram adult cells into an embryonic stem cell-like state using specific microRNAs and Hdac2 suppression, offering a more efficient alternative to traditional methods. This breakthrough could lead to improved strategies for developing stem cells for therapeutic use.
Astronomers have never seen a gamma-ray burst as bright and long-lasting as GRB 110328A, which is believed to be associated with a massive black hole. The unusual blast likely arose when a star wandered too close to the central black hole of its galaxy.
Experts at EB2011 discuss the links between metabolic function and disease onset, highlighting recent findings on mitochondrial dysfunction and metabolic signal transduction. The meeting focuses on the biochemical reactions that sustain life and their impact on serious diseases.
A University of Alberta study found that warning labels on junk food are more effective in deterring overweight consumers from making unhealthy purchases. The study showed that shoppers with high body mass index were deterred only by the warning label, indicating that price alone is not enough to change behavior.
John McDowell, a Pitt philosophy professor, received a prestigious award for his work on combining philosophical thought with the natural sciences to understand human experience. He plans to use the grant to focus on graduate teaching, publishing research, and presenting at conferences.
Researchers have found that monkeys infected with an emerging malaria strain are providing a reservoir for human disease in Southeast Asia. The study confirms that the species has not yet adapted to humans and that monkeys are the main source of infection.
Researchers at UMMS have developed a novel technique called EMPIRIC to produce all possible individual mutations and analyze their impact on cells. This approach enables the systematic screening of viral genomes for likelihood to develop drug resistance.
Charles E. Chalfant, a researcher at Virginia Commonwealth University, has won the Avanti Young Investigator Award in Lipid Research for his groundbreaking studies on ceramide and ceramide-1-phosphate. He is recognized for his research productivity and emerging leadership in lipid research.
The Experimental Biology 2011 conference showcased cutting-edge research in biochemical battle of the bulge, DNA replication, and bone health. Researchers presented findings on obesity, cancer, and gene therapy, highlighting the importance of understanding cellular processes in disease prevention.
Cities globally are failing to prepare for climate change impacts, despite billions of urban dwellers being vulnerable to heat waves, sea level rise, and other changes. Many cities lack effective strategies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and protect residents.
A Wayne State University study found that soy isoflavones can sensitize cancer cells to radiation while protecting normal tissue. The study demonstrated that soy isoflavones can block DNA repair mechanisms in cancer cells, leading to increased killing of lung cancer cells by radiation
Scientists at Iowa State University have introduced a starch-controlling gene into soybean plants, increasing protein content by 30-60%. This discovery holds promise for improving nutrition in areas with protein-deficient diets. The research also sheds light on genes with obscure functionalities and their potential applications.
Researchers at IITA and CIFOR found that widespread deforestation in West Africa's tropical forest region is driven by low-input farming practices. Increasing fertilizer use could have spared 2 million hectares of forest from being cleared, instead promoting sustainable agriculture and higher yields.
A new study published in American Journal of Transplantation found that progressive damage to kidney transplants is less common and less severe than previously reported. The study, involving 797 patients, showed that 87% of patients had mild or no signs of progressive scar damage at one year after transplant.
Researchers studying Mexican Blind Cave Fish found that cave-adapted fish sleep less and are more active than their surface-dwelling relatives. The discovery suggests that the transition to a dark environment may be associated with changes in sleep behavior, potentially due to the need for continuous vigilance to find food.
Yusuf Hannun has pioneered the understanding of bioactive sphingolipids, a class of lipids regulating multiple cell functions. His research group is one of the best-funded lipid research groups in the US.
The American College of Physicians urges a national policy to ensure better access to healthcare for immigrants, who face numerous barriers, including lack of insurance and fear of deportation. The organization emphasizes the importance of addressing these concerns to prevent public health issues and promote equitable care.
Loyola University Health System's Heart Attack Rapid Response Team has dramatically improved care for heart attack patients by reducing door-to-balloon times to just 47 minutes.
The Infectious Diseases Society of America warns that antibiotic-resistant super bugs threaten public health, citing a need for urgent action. The organization recommends initiatives to combat resistance, including incentivizing R&D, recalibrating FDA requirements, and promoting judicious use of antibiotics.
A new index called SAFE (Species Ability to Forestall Extinction) measures how close a species is to extinction. The index provides a formula for calculating the minimum viable population size, allowing conservationists to prioritize resources on species most likely to be brought back from the brink of extinction.
A collaborative quality improvement program between Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan and the University of Michigan Health System has improved safety and quality in several clinical areas, resulting in significant cost savings. The program achieved measurable drops in surgical complications, with a reduction of $20 million annually.
Scientists have successfully developed a technique to decode brain signals associated with speech and movement. By analyzing frequency of brain wave activity, patients can learn to control a computer cursor by thinking or saying specific sounds, marking the beginning of 'reading minds' technology.
The study found that TRPV3 channels in western clawed frogs have opposite temperature sensitivities compared to mammals, indicating dynamic adaptation to thermal environments. The researchers identified a gene and examined its function, revealing structural differences between frog and mammal channels.
A study found that exercising during pregnancy can help infants develop healthier hearts, with improved cardiovascular function maintained even after birth. The research suggests that interventions should focus on pregnant women to promote better health outcomes for children.
Researchers identify a refined mechanism in the pancreas that uses autophagy to selectively detect and degrade activated enzymes, potentially preventing pancreatitis. The discovery could lead to new therapeutic approaches for patients with acute or chronic pancreatic disease.
Cheryl A. Kerfeld, a structural biologist, has won the American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology's Award for Exemplary Contributions to Education for her innovative approach to teaching genomics and bioinformatics. Her educational programs have been adopted by over 65 institutions, empowering undergraduate students to ann...
Research from the University of Arizona found that bacteria in the genus Rickettsia can rapidly evolve whiteflies, making them more likely to survive and reproduce. The bacteria manipulate sex ratios, causing more female offspring to be born, which is unusual for such a short period.