A natural defense mechanism has been uncovered that inactivates the toxin spreading C. diff by binding to it with S-nitrosoglutathione (GSNO), a NO-based molecule. This finding provides a basis for developing new therapies targeting toxins directly.
Research reveals Iberian lynx fossils have low genetic variation over the last 50,000 years, suggesting moderate population sizes may ensure long-term survival. This finding challenges the myth that certain species are doomed by their genetics.
A novel imaging probe has been developed to detect dangerous heart-valve infections, such as those caused by Staphylococcus aureus, noninvasively. The probe uses a radiolabeled version of prothrombin to reveal the presence of infected bacteria in mouse models.
Researchers at Duke University Medical Center discovered a mechanism linking chronic stress to DNA damage. Stress leads to prolonged lowering of p53 levels, which can cause chromosomal irregularities. The study used an adrenaline-like compound in mice and found that degradation of p53 resulted in accumulation of DNA damage.
Researchers have identified a key mechanism used by intestinal cells to defend against Clostridium difficile infections. A previously unknown protective response, known as nitrosylation, can be exploited to prevent toxin-induced cell damage.
A radical overhaul of farming is proposed as a 'game-changer' for global food security. The new approach aims to enhance production and protect ecosystems by adopting agroecosystem practices that maintain clean water, air, and biodiversity.
A phase 2 trial found that olaparib reduced tumor size in 41% of patients with ovarian cancer and no BRCA gene mutations. The treatment was generally well-tolerated and offered new hope for ovarian cancer treatment targeting DNA repair mechanisms.
A new study has developed a simple process to separate sugars from carrier molecules and attach them to drugs, promising to accelerate the development of novel pharmaceuticals. The technique also allows for easy screening of transformed molecules, which could lead to the production of effective treatments for various diseases.
Children of disadvantaged, unhealthy mothers experience a higher number of health issues and are more likely to suffer from asthma and learning disabilities. Their mothers' health problems can also place emotional and material burdens on children, heightening stress and anxiety.
Scientists have discovered a common cause of all forms of ALS, a fatal neurodegenerative disease, by identifying a broken down protein recycling system in neurons. This finding provides a common target for drug therapy and suggests that all types of ALS are tributaries pouring into a common river of cellular incompetence.
Research suggests working moms who expect they can't do it all are more likely to experience depression, while those with a balanced view show fewer symptoms. Working mothers who express supermom attitudes that work and home lives can be blended without tradeoffs have higher levels of depression.
A new study finds that working mothers who expect they can't do it all are at a higher risk for depression. The study reveals that women who have a supermom attitude, believing their work and family life can be combined with ease, actually experience more depression symptoms than those with a more realistic view.
A new study reveals that schools with large minority populations are more likely to implement metal detectors, despite weak correlations with actual crime rates. In contrast, poverty is a significant predictor of security measures in elementary and middle schools, potentially contributing to early disparities in educational achievement.
A study of Texas women holding concealed handgun licenses reveals they are motivated by feelings of empowerment and a need for self-defense. However, this form of self-defense can also lead to increased vulnerability when unarmed, as their sense of strength and confidence reside in the firearm.
Research on ancient fossilized clams yields new insights into the relationship between global warming and El Niño. The study suggests that the ENSO system was still active 50 million years ago, despite very warm temperatures during the Eocene period.
A study by Indiana University sociologist Kristin Seefeldt found that poor women have limited expectations from the government, despite facing significant hardship. The women struggled with public benefits, unemployment insurance, and private safety nets, highlighting the need for reform to support low-income families.
Researchers at Syracuse University have developed tunable nano-suspensions capable of capturing specific wavelengths of sunlight, paving the way for improved solar energy efficiency and smart glass technologies. By manipulating the composition of the suspension, scientists can achieve optimal optical properties.
Research finds that active participation in civic groups and organizations is declining at a rate greater than the increase in checkbook memberships. This shift towards passive participation may be due to changes in community design, longer commutes, and increased television time, posing potential threats to democracy.
Researchers at UCLA found that traumatic brain injury increases risk of Parkinson's disease, with a moderate injury causing a 15% loss of nigrostriatal dopaminergic neurons. Exposure to the pesticide paraquat doubles this risk and accelerates neuronal degeneration.
The molecular structural basis for severe head deformities and ambiguous sex organs in babies born with Antley-Bixler syndrome has been revealed, suggesting that riboflavin therapy may reverse enzyme defects. The study also found that the enzyme NADPH-cytochrome P450 reductase plays a crucial role in human syndromes.
A recent study published in Pediatric Research found that mothers with a higher pre-pregnancy body mass index (BMI) have fatter babies with more fat in their liver cells. The researchers measured the amount of fat in 105 babies' livers and bodies, finding increased liver cell fat and total fat across all BMI ranges. This study suggests...
Scientists have discovered a new binding site on the most common subtype of nicotinic acetylcholine receptors, which could lead to the development of better medicines for psychiatric disorders. The findings challenge existing scientific ideas and provide a general mechanism that applies across the receptor family.
The University of Kentucky Sanders-Brown Center on Aging is receiving over $7 million from the National Institute on Aging to continue its research and clinical initiatives focused on treating Alzheimer's disease. The funding will support ongoing programs, including telemedicine services, brain donation, and outreach efforts.
A new report from Berkeley Lab scientist shows that oil-degrading microorganisms played a significant role in both the Exxon Valdez and BP Deepwater Horizon spills. The study found that mobilizing these microorganisms rapidly can minimize the risk and impact of future oil spills.
A new collection of research articles focuses on physical activity and sport participation across the lifespan, exploring its benefits for mental, physical, emotional, and social health. The book features contributions from scholars in eight countries and four continents.
A recent study by McGill University researchers found that biodiversity is essential for maintaining multiple ecosystem services across different years, places, and environmental conditions. The study suggests that many species are needed to maintain ecosystem services, rather than just a few, and highlights the importance of conservin...
A recent study published in American Political Research found that English language ads had a greater impact on Latino voter turnout compared to Spanish language ads. The study also showed that English language materials drew in a broader voter demographic and were effective across all levels of Latino voters.
A study by UCSD researchers reveals a rapid increase in hookah use among California youth aged 18-24, with most users smoking with friends. Hookah is perceived as a safer alternative to cigarettes despite being less healthy, prompting calls for laws to ban hookah lounges.
A new study from the University of Alberta found that combining metformin with exercise does not provide additional benefits for glucose control. In fact, it may trigger a counter-regulatory response in the body, leading to increased glucagon levels and reduced glucose control after exercise.
Researchers will use genome-wide association studies to identify genetic variants associated with diseases, enabling the adjustment of patient medications and prevention of diseases. The eMERGE network has already identified genetic variants linked to dementia, cataracts, type 2 diabetes, and more.
A new study from Temple University found that medical examiners and appointed coroners are less likely to underreport suicides compared to elected coroners. This suggests that insulation from public pressure can lead to more accurate suicide reporting.
Researchers at Stanford University have developed a new method to detect sunspots forming deep inside the sun, allowing for up to two days' warning before solar storms. The method uses acoustic waves generated by turbulent plasma and gases, and has been successfully tested four times.
Soil nitrogen can remove pollutants from the atmosphere by forming hydroxyl radicals, which oxidize and wash out pollutants. The amount of nitrous acid released depends on soil acidity and water content.
A meta-analysis predicts that cities will expand by 590,000 square miles globally by 2030, threatening biologically diverse areas. Rising incomes in China drive half of urban land expansion, while population growth drives expansion in India and Africa.
A new study found that a combination of minocycline and EDTA can prevent bacterial infections in dialysis patients using catheters, improving patient outcomes. The treatment reduced the risk of infection by half compared to traditional heparin use.
Researchers have discovered a potential treatment for cancer of the immune system, targeting the Epstein Barr virus receptor EB12. The discovery was made by mapping the bio-antenna molecule and creating a blueprint of a tiny molecule that can bind to the B cell EB12 receptor, blocking its activation.
Experts warn that climate-related damage to nation's infrastructure is on the rise, with potential costs exceeding $2 trillion. The summit identifies key initiatives for next five years, including assessing vulnerable infrastructure, developing risk assessment tools, and improving stakeholder dialogue.
The University of Southampton has received £17m funding to support its world-leading nutrition and respiratory research facilities. The National Institute for Health Research has allocated £7.3m to the Respiratory Biomedical Research unit, while the Nutrition, Diet and Lifestyle Biomedical Research Centre will receive £9.6m.
People with metabolic syndrome have a 55% increased risk of developing kidney problems, especially lower kidney function. Preventing and managing metabolic syndrome through healthy diet, exercise, and weight loss may help prevent kidney disease.
U of A researchers explore hypothetical economic models that suggest oil producers should pay attention to emerging alternatives. If an alternative resource becomes more economically attractive, oil producers may have to adjust to make sure they don't hasten their own obsolescence.
Researchers at Stanford University discovered that Toxoplasma-infected male rats exhibit altered brain activity in response to cat urine, suggesting a manipulation of fear and attraction pathways. The parasite benefits from this alteration, as infected rats become less fearful and more drawn to cats.
Researchers have discovered how malaria parasites camouflage themselves from the immune system of pregnant women, allowing them to go undetected. This finding has significant implications for developing a vaccine to protect expectant mothers from maternal malaria.
Tropical Depression 8 is expected to produce heavy rainfall across Honduras, Guatemala, and Belize, with total accumulations of 3-5 inches possible. Isolated areas may see up to 8 inches, posing a risk of flash flooding and mudslides.
New images show the solar wind's dynamic interactions, including piling up at the leading edge of a CME, voids in the interior, long thread-like structures, and V-shaped structures centered on the current sheet. These findings are changing the way scientists think about space weather.
Researchers at NYU Langone Health have discovered the cellular mechanisms that generate chromosomal breaks in bacteria. They found that collisions between major gene expression lead to chromosomal breaks, which may explain stress-driven evolution in bacteria and certain human diseases.
Empa researchers found significant discrepancies in greenhouse gas emissions reports, particularly from Western European countries. The study reveals that countries like Italy and the Netherlands underreported their HFC-23 emissions, while others like France and Germany reported accurate figures.
Research finds that long-term intimate relationships, including marriage and cohabitation, can lead to the promotion of unhealthy habits among partners. Gay and lesbian couples are particularly prone to adopting each other's unhealthy behaviors, such as through health habit synchronicity or personal responsibility discourse.
The Mid-Infrared Instrument (MIRI) has completed 2,000 individual tests at cryogenic temperatures, a milestone for the James Webb Space Telescope mission. Scientists will use MIRI to study young planets around distant stars and explore their habitability.
A breakthrough discovery identifies a key gene, SIRT3, that exacerbates the development of metabolic syndrome, a condition linked to obesity, high blood pressure, and insulin resistance. The study suggests that increasing SIRT3 activity could help alleviate symptoms and develop new treatments for this growing health concern.
A study of over 2,000 people found that high levels of coronary calcium were a better predictor of heart attack and stroke risk than C-reactive protein. The research suggests that statin medication may be unnecessary for some individuals with normal LDL cholesterol levels and low C-reactive protein levels.
A CDC study found that primary care providers continue to recommend annual cervical cancer screening, despite guidelines suggesting a less frequent screening interval. The study suggests that establishing a history of normal Pap tests is crucial in making guideline-supported screening interval recommendations.
A new study suggests that coronary artery calcium (CAC) is a more accurate predictor of heart attacks and strokes than C-reactive protein (CRP) in healthy adults. High CAC scores are associated with a fourfold increased risk of cardiovascular disease, while low scores indicate an extremely low risk of events. Statin treatment may be mo...
Research from Vanderbilt University finds that preschool teachers' use of sophisticated vocabulary and analytic talk can predict fourth-grade reading comprehension and word recognition. Long-term effects of early childhood classrooms are also associated with improved language ability, including enhanced vocabulary in later grades.
A new CU-Boulder study has found that dog feces may be a significant source of airborne bacteria in urban areas, particularly during the winter months. The research suggests that the dominant source of airborne bacteria in Cleveland and Detroit's wintertime air is actually from dog fecal material.
Researchers have identified the key sugar molecule SLeX on the outer coat of human eggs that enables them to capture sperm. This discovery has significant implications for understanding fertility and developing new treatments for infertility and sub-fertility.
A new UCLA study finds that implementing complete smoke-free rules can reduce smoking-related costs by nearly half, resulting in estimated property savings of $18 million. Nearly half of properties have no smoke-free policies, with smaller ones having a higher rate of compliance.
Veterinary researcher Scott Kenney received a prestigious USDA grant to investigate the molecular mechanisms of pathogenesis behind porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus. The two-year grant aims to better understand how the virus causes reproductive failure in sows and respiratory diseases in piglets.
Research at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory reveals that fruit flies' mushroom body neurons represent odors in a consistently sparse fashion, with patterns of firing being randomly distributed within the brain area. This finding suggests that the fly's brain uses sparsity to form accurate memories.
This special issue of the Biological Bulletin explores various regenerative processes in animals, shedding light on mechanisms and potential therapeutic targets. Researchers studied regeneration in sea lampreys, snails, and other animals to gain insights into their gene regulatory networks.
A new study published by the American Psychological Association found significant sex differences in mental illness prevalence, with women more likely to develop anxiety and depression. Men, on the other hand, are more prone to substance abuse and antisocial disorders. The study's findings suggest that treatment approaches for men and ...