Scientists used single molecule fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) techniques combined with wavelet transforms to study the AMPA receptor's behavior. They identified four distinct conformations of the receptor and found that its 'cleft' is constantly opening and closing, exploring space for neurotransmitters.
Researchers at Berkeley Lab developed a fluorescent assay that reveals the mechanism of how fluoxetine inhibits TREK1 potassium channels, a key target for antidepressants. The study provides new insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying depression and opens up potential avenues for developing improved treatments.
A new study found a link between low-dose ionizing radiation exposure from cardiac imaging and therapeutic procedures and an increased risk of incident cancer. Patients who underwent more procedures were more likely to develop cancer, particularly in the abdomen and chest areas.
Researchers have developed an approach to identify parasite genes associated with severe infection in pregnant women and children, offering new understanding of childhood malaria. Additionally, studies found that niacin can inhibit progression of atherosclerosis in mice through its receptor GPR109A expressed by immune cells.
A recent study published in BMJ Quality and Safety found that care home residents are more than four times as likely to get the wrong dose of medicine when it is in liquid form as they are when given pills/capsules. The study highlights the need for better training and systems to address this issue.
Researchers have developed a method to profile malaria-causing parasite P. falciparum, identifying genes associated with severe infection in pregnant women and children. The study aims to provide new understanding of childhood malaria severity.
Researchers at Jefferson Lab have combined data from six experiments to reveal a correlation between the EMC Effect and short-range correlations in bound neutrons. The findings suggest that there is a common cause for both effects, potentially linked to nucleon behavior.
A new study examines the effect of FDA regulations restricting outdoor tobacco advertising near schools and playgrounds. The researchers found that even smaller buffer zones would still affect a significant number of retailers, with up to 1.5 million pieces of outdoor tobacco advertising potentially removed across the country if a 1,00...
Patients with large kidney tumors benefit from nephron-sparing surgery, which preserves more kidney tissue and reduces chronic kidney disease risk. Researchers found that this approach resulted in better long-term kidney health outcomes compared to radical nephrectomy.
Researchers Pietro Cottone and Michael Silverstein have been awarded the prestigious National Institute of Mental Health Biobehavioral Research Awards for Innovative New Scientists (BRAINS) grant. They will explore mechanisms underlying addictive disorders, stress, and maternal depression using innovative approaches.
Childhood cancer researchers have identified checkpoint kinase 1 (CHK1) as a potential new treatment target for neuroblastoma. By blocking CHK1 activity, chemotherapy can be made more effective against the cancer cells.
A new study found that cardiac resynchronization therapy with defibrillator (CRT-D) is significantly more beneficial for women than men in preventing heart disease. Women experienced a 70% reduction in heart failure and a 72% reduction in death, compared to 35% and 45%, respectively.
A new article outlines five phases of an imaging procedure's lifecycle, identifying distinct clinical evidence needs for each phase. The roadmap aims to foster certainty for manufacturers and stakeholders in navigating the concept-to-adoption pathway.
The FASEB MARC Program awarded 3 travel grants totaling $3000 to support underrepresented minorities at the 2011 ACSM Texas Chapter Annual Meeting. The program aims to increase diversity in biomedical research through mentorship and career development opportunities.
A University of Nebraska-Lincoln study found that viewers' fears and attitudes about crime are influenced by the type of TV show they watch. Non-fiction documentaries increase fear of becoming a victim, while fictional dramas boost support for the death penalty.
Researchers at University of Washington develop tiny, battery-powered implantable devices that bridge impaired nerve connections and promote brain recovery from injury or disease. The devices can record nerve cell activity, process it, and stimulate cells in another brain region.
The research team used single-molecule imaging to study G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) and found that they can interconvert between monomers and dimers. This understanding is crucial for predicting GPCR numbers in cells and blocking signal amplification by these molecules.
Researchers found that deaf people in Nicaragua who used self-developed gestures, called homesigns, had difficulty understanding the value of large numbers. In contrast, those who acquired conventional sign language as children were able to learn the meaning of large numbers.
Rates of service use decline significantly after young adults with autism spectrum disorder exit high school. Disparities in service usage exist by race and socioeconomic status.
Researchers discovered a specific immune cell population that maintains immunity in the intestine of mice, producing anti-microbial proteins to fight infection. Elimination of these cells led to impaired immunity and ultimately mouse death.
A UT Knoxville historian is using a $50,000 NEH grant to study small village settlements in ancient Israel, which he believes were just as vibrant and dynamic as city-states.
A team of physicists at Harvard University has demonstrated the formation of semipermeable vesicles from inorganic clay, which could have played a key role in the origins of life. The clay vesicles provide an ideal container for compartmentalizing complex organic molecules.
A comprehensive public health approach is needed to address Canada's significant alcohol burden, with population-level policies and targeted interventions recommended. Estimated direct healthcare costs of alcohol in 2002 were $3.3 billion, with per capita sales rising 13% since 1996.
Researchers at UC Berkeley successfully repurposed Salmonella to safely transport virus-stopping enzymes into cells, effectively treating mice infected with cytomegalovirus. The new technique uses a live but weakened bacteria as a vector for the ribozyme that can stop the gene activity of cytomegalovirus.
A recent study by Ronni Pavan of the University of Rochester and Nathaniel Baum-Snow found that larger US cities drive growing wage gaps between the rich and poor. The study used U.S. Census data and American Community Surveys from 1980 to 2007, finding that larger metropolitan areas have experienced rapid growth in wages within all sk...
A new study by Washington University in St. Louis anthropologist Glenn Stone suggests that genetically modified Bt cotton seeds may have overemphasized crop yield gains, potentially harming sustainable farm management. The research found a modest rise in crop yields despite decreased pesticide sprayings.
Researchers at the University of Illinois found that fermented and enzyme-treated soybean meals can replace fish meal in weanling pig diets without sacrificing digestibility. These new sources are cheaper alternatives to traditional fish meal, which has seen a significant price increase.
Scientists at Hebrew University and Harvard have developed a low-cost, 'robotic' growth factor protein that speeds up wound healing. The protein responds to temperature, simplifying purification and enabling it to remain at the burn site, dramatically increasing healing rates in diabetic mice.
Scientists discovered that Rhizanthella gardneri, a critically endangered orchid, has the smallest plant chloroplast genome at 37 genes, making it essential for its parasitic lifestyle. The genome retains only four crucial proteins, allowing the orchid to survive without photosynthesis.
A team of internationally recognized molecular biologists, epidemiologists, and clinicians have been honored for their groundbreaking work on human papillomavirus (HPV) research. Their collaborative efforts have led to significant advances in understanding HPV's role in cancer development and the development of the HPV vaccine.
Scientists used synchrotron X-ray imaging to study an ancient fossilized snake, revealing details of its internal architecture. The results suggest that snakes lost their legs due to slower growth rates or a shorter evolutionary period.
Scientists have genetically modified a trial crop of banana plants to survive Tropical Race Four, a fungus that has wiped out plantations in the Northern Territory. The modified plants have been inserted with a gene that starves the fungus, preventing it from attacking the plant.
Patients with schizophrenia who take antipsychotics for extended periods may experience a measurable decrease in brain tissue over time. The study suggests that long-term antipsychotic use can contribute to progressive changes in brain volume, even after controlling for other factors.
Researchers at Stanford University School of Medicine have identified genetic variations in a hormone involved in insulin secretion that occur more frequently in some human populations. These variants are associated with higher fasting levels of blood glucose and may help scientists understand the subtle changes in human metabolism, en...
A study published in Neurology found that people with higher sun exposure and vitamin D levels were less likely to develop multiple sclerosis. The researchers also discovered that increased UV light exposure and skin damage from sun exposure reduced the risk of developing the disease.
A new study finds that the tropical Atlantic has experienced weaker trade winds and changes in ocean surface temperature, leading to increased rainfall over adjacent land areas. This shift is attributed to asymmetric reduction in surface solar radiation due to man-produced aerosols.
Scientists at UC San Diego have developed injectable fluorescent peptides that cause hard-to-see peripheral nerves to glow, alerting surgeons to their location. The discovery could revolutionize nerve preservation in surgery, especially in cases where nerves are damaged or distorted.
A collaboration between CSIRO and NASA has tracked down 25 ultrafast 'millisecond' pulsars in just two years, revealing insights into the physics of these small spinning stars. The research uses a combination of land- and space-based detectors to understand how pulsars make their beams of radiation.
New research published in Chemistry Central Journal reveals that chocolate contains more antioxidants and polyphenols than fruit juice. Dark chocolate and cocoa have been found to have a higher antioxidant capacity and greater total flavanol content, making them a healthier alternative.
Researchers at UC Berkeley have developed a method to grow nanolasers directly onto a silicon surface, enabling highly efficient silicon photonics. This breakthrough could lead to powerful biochemical sensors and faster microprocessors, as well as new applications in computing, communications, displays, and optical signal processing.
A new study has linked 29 genome regions to ulcerative colitis, a common form of inflammatory bowel disease. The research identified genes involved in the immune response and provided insights into the biology underlying the disease.
A study of over 44,000 15 and 16 year olds in Germany found that rural teenagers are more likely to engage in binge drinking than their urban counterparts. Binge drinking has serious social and health consequences, including increased risk of accidents, unsafe sexual behavior, and long-term brain damage.
A CSIRO study found that mining by-products can effectively remove phosphorus and nitrogen from water, reducing the risk of algal blooms. The research suggests using these by-products as a cost-effective and environmentally-friendly solution for treating wastewater.
A new study found that Native American ancestry is associated with a greater risk of relapse in young leukemia patients. Administering an extra phase of chemotherapy can help eliminate this risk, according to the research published in Nature Genetics.
Researchers used acoustic analysis and genetic diversity to identify gibbons from their regional accents, showing a high degree of similarity between species within the same location. The study suggests that gibbon songs are adapted to forest environments, with distinct patterns in each region.
A team of scientists created a programable molecular transport system, observed in real time using atomic force microscopy. The system consists of a DNA origami track with a motor and fuel, allowing for adjustable speed and potential applications in drug delivery and synthetic ribosome creation.
A team of researchers led by Dr. Jayakrishna Ambati has discovered a molecular mechanism implicated in geographic atrophy, the major cause of untreatable blindness in the industrialized world. The study identified Alu RNA toxicity as the underlying cause and developed two potential therapies to prevent geographic atrophy.
The study found that illicit drugs, pharmaceuticals, and personal care products are contaminating Mexico's aquifers, posing a threat to the region's freshwater quality and availability. The researchers recommend integrated approaches to protecting and managing the aquifer to ensure sustainable tourism and human health.
A study published in the World Journal of Gastroenterology found that percutaneous drainage with adjuvant medical therapy is effective in treating hepatic hydatid cysts, with all 32 cysts showing immediate collapse and progressive decrease in size over time. The procedure was associated with no viable scolices found upon re-aspiration.
A study published in Chemical Research in Toxicology found that wood smoke particulate matter contains higher levels of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, which are linked to DNA damage and disease. The researchers also discovered that WSPM causes inflammation and greater activity in genes linked to disease.
A 10-year population-based study reveals heartburn is a common condition affecting every fifth person, with higher incidence in those of normal weight or higher, impacting daily activities and quality of life. The study also found significant sociodemographic factors influencing heartburn experience.
A randomized clinical trial found that fast-track rehabilitation programs significantly accelerate the restoration of gastrointestinal functions after resection of colorectal cancer. Fast-track care also reduces postoperative complications and hospital stay time for patients.
Researchers at Case Western Reserve University have developed a new chemotherapy method that targets cancer tumors more effectively by using gold nanoparticles to deliver an anti-cancer drug directly into the tumor. This approach allows for lower doses of toxic chemicals, reducing damage to healthy tissue.
A new study finds that working more than 20 hours a week in high school can lead to declines in school engagement, increases in problem behavior, and negligible effects on academics when working 20 hours or less per week. Researchers recommend monitoring and constraining work hours for enrolled students.
Researchers at the University of British Columbia estimate that Arctic fisheries catches totaled 950,000 tonnes from 1950 to 2006, significantly higher than previously reported. The study reveals a lack of accurate data on small-scale fisheries and their impact on biodiversity in the region.
Research by University of Illinois scientist Barbara H. Fiese found that family mealtimes with three key ingredients - action, behavior control, and communication - can reduce asthma severity and increase quality of life in children. The study suggested specific guidelines for allocating time during mealtimes to each ingredient.
HHMI is launching a $60 million initiative to produce high-quality, compelling documentary films on scientific topics for television. The program aims to inspire people and nourish curiosity about science.
Researchers at Stanford University have developed a new technique to trace neural connections in the brain, shedding light on how scent signals are processed. The study found that most nerve pathways heading to higher processing centers originated from one region of the olfactory bulb, explaining how mice direct their innate fear respo...
The University of Nevada, Reno has licensed its patent for laminin-111 to Prothelia, a Boston biotech company, which is developing a human version of the protein for clinical trials. The therapy shows promise in preventing muscle damage and could be an IV drug option for patients.
Researchers found women with PAD lose ability to walk short distances and climb stairs sooner than men, despite having less calf muscle. Women are more likely to develop a mobility disability compared to men.