Gene therapy using stem cells holds great potential for treating a range of diseases, thanks to advances in gene marking techniques, PCR sequencing, and chromatin insulators. The success of these methods could lead to improved patient survival rates.
Isoscapes, a mapping technique using isotopes as 'fingerprints,' helps track the geographical origins of illicit goods, human remains, and even luxury items like whiskey and cheese. By analyzing isotope ratios in tissue samples and objects, scientists can pinpoint their origins and aid in investigations.
A new cell phone application called TagSense can accurately tag photographs with information about people, locations and activities. The system uses the multiple sensors on a mobile phone and those of other phones in the vicinity to provide more detailed tagging, making it easier to search and retrieve desired pictures.
Researchers have found a new treatment option for children with relapsed or primary refractory high-risk neuroblastoma, using combined positron emission tomography and X-ray computed tomography to select patients for molecular radiotherapy. The therapy was well-tolerated and showed promise in improving symptoms and quality of life.
A University of Leicester geography lecturer will investigate transnational solidarity activism with a Leverhulme Trust award. The project aims to provoke debate about the value of this type of activism in understanding and informing current and future movements.
A new Stanford University study projects that global warming could reduce the suitable land for premium wine grape cultivation in high-value areas of northern California by 50% by 2040. Meanwhile, some cooler parts of Oregon and Washington State may see an increase in premium grape-growing acreage due to warming.
A study published in the New England Journal of Medicine confirms that helical low-dose CT scans for lung cancer reduce deaths in heavy smokers by 20 percent. The research also highlights the need for further analysis on cost-effectiveness, downstream consequences, and screening strategies.
Researchers from Boston College and Harvard analyzed Pollock's techniques, revealing his use of jets, drops, and sheets governed by fluid dynamics. The team described Pollock's physical technique in terms of paint load volume, viscosity, flow rates, and gravity.
A new rapid test can accurately diagnose bacterial and viral infections, allowing for timely treatment. The test exploits differences in immune system responses to distinguish between the two types of infections.
Research reveals that an individual's consumption habits and contraceptive choices are influenced by their cultural background, which in turn affects their responses to climate change. People's perceptions of environmental impact influence their behavior, with some behaviors offsetting environmental gains.
Researchers found that children with dyslexia struggle to perceive metrical structure in music, which is critical for phonology in language. Early musical games may provide benefits for learning to read and improve reading skills.
Researchers found that when people are reminded of money, they perceive mimicry as a threat to their personal freedom, leading them to respond antagonistically. This could have important implications for social bonding and forming interpersonal relationships.
A recent study found that early treatment with the diabetes drug metformin may prevent or delay the development of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) in adolescents. The study, which compared early versus late metformin treatment, showed that early therapy prevented PCOS symptoms more effectively than late treatment.
Research found that outpatient electronic prescribing systems do not significantly reduce medication errors, with over 12% of prescriptions containing mistakes. The most common errors were related to missing information and involved anti-inflammatory drugs, antibiotics, nervous system drugs, and cardiovascular drugs.
A new study published in New England Journal of Medicine found that CT scans can detect lung cancer at an early stage, reducing death rates by 20%. The trial involved over 53,000 current or former heavy smokers and showed improved survival rates for those who received the CT scan.
A large clinical trial found that low-dose spiral CT scanning reduced lung cancer deaths by 20% compared to chest X-ray screening. The study involved over 53,000 participants and provided conclusive evidence of the mortality benefit from CT screening.
Researchers analyzed over 345,000 bird capture records to assess the risk of injury or mortality from mist netting. Frequently captured birds were found to be less at risk than those captured infrequently due to established adulthood and territory ownership.
Fossils discovered on Kangaroo Island, Australia, reveal that early animals had excellent vision, with compound eyes containing over 3000 lenses. This suggests a rapid evolution of visual organs due to the adaptive advantage of sharp vision for hunting and finding food.
Researchers at Lehigh University are studying the impact of grain-boundary interphases on material properties. They aim to control the transition between different interphase structures to prevent abnormal grain growth and improve material quality.
Research at the University of Cambridge found a connection between impulsivity and superstitious rituals in problem gamblers. The study suggests that high impulsivity can predispose individuals to complex distortions, including superstitions, that contribute to problem gambling.
A study published in The Lancet shows that smokers are twice as likely to quit when receiving motivational text messages compared to placebo texts. Biochemical testing confirms the effectiveness of the txt2stop intervention, which doubled smoking quit rates.
The study analyzed over 300 tumor samples and found that 96% had mutated TP53 genes, while BRCA1 and BRCA2 were mutated in 30% of patients. The researchers identified a set of genes associated with worse or better patient outcomes, predicting survival rates.
A trial found that sending motivational and supportive text messages to smokers doubled their chances of quitting at six months. The study, led by the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, showed that continuous abstinence rates were significantly increased in participants who received personalized text messages.
Research shows significantly higher osteoarthritis (OA) incidence rates among US military personnel compared to the general population, with differences increasing with advancing age category. Black service members have higher OA rates than white military personnel or those in other racial categories.
Researchers at Princeton University developed a laser technique to observe how electrons become entangled, shedding new light on the Kondo state and its potential applications in quantum computing. The study reveals fresh insights into the complex relationship between an isolated electron and its surroundings.
Researchers at TUM create an artificial skin for robots that simulates human-like touch and temperature detection, allowing machines to interact with their environment in a more human-like way. The system uses sensors to register movement and detect changes in the robot's surroundings, enabling it to develop self-awareness.
A University of Arizona planetary scientist has determined Neptune's rotation with high accuracy by tracking atmospheric features in its atmosphere. The discovery improves upon previous measurements and provides a better understanding of the planet's fundamental properties.
Research suggests that students who experience frequent drink-fueled memory blackouts are at a higher risk of sustaining an injury while under the influence. The study analyzed data from over 800 undergraduates and found that those with six or more memory blackouts were almost three times as likely to sustain an injury.
A study found nearly 99,000 tons of rare earth elements available in products globally, equivalent to over 10 years of production. This suggests that REE recycling may offset a significant part of virgin extraction, minimizing environmental challenges associated with mining and processing.
Tropical Storm Arlene formed over the southwestern Gulf of Mexico, strengthening into a full-fledged hurricane with sustained winds near 40 mph. The GOES-13 satellite captured the storm's development from June 27 to June 28, revealing its transformation from a low-pressure area to a tropical storm.
A new study confirms that fulfilling a diversity of needs is essential to individual happiness. Higher-order needs like social support and self-actualization contribute more strongly to life satisfaction than lower-order needs.
The study provides a comprehensive view of cancer genes for any cancer type to date, identifying patterns in gene expression that predict patient survival. The results support four distinct subtypes of the disease based on genomic changes and highlight potential therapeutic targets using existing drugs.
ConocoPhillips is donating $1 million to the University of Houston's Energy Research Park, a comprehensive research facility for the energy industry. The gift will support the university's vision for a world-class petroleum engineering department.
The University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center has introduced a comprehensive lung cancer screening program to detect the disease early. With computed tomography (CT) scans, the program reduces lung cancer-specific mortality by 20%, improving health outcomes for high-risk individuals.
The Ecological Society of America honored seven distinguished ecologists with awards, recognizing outstanding contributions to research, education, and public service. Thomas G. Whitham received the Eminent Ecologist Award for his work on individual variation in ecology, while Donald Strong was recognized for his editorial leadership a...
A new global plant database, led by University of Minnesota researchers, offers trait data for 69,000 plant species, enabling more realistic models of terrestrial biodiversity. The database promises to support a paradigm shift in Earth system sciences and improve carbon cycle predictions.
The study found a significant reduction in lung cancer deaths among heavy smokers screened with low-dose helical CT, with a 20% decrease compared to those screened with chest X-ray. The screening test identified adenocarcinomas and squamous cell carcinomas at early stages of disease, providing valuable insights for future patients.
Researchers found that increasing incidental physical activity, such as fidgeting at desks or taking short walks, can significantly improve cardiorespiratory fitness. The study, published in Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise, highlights the importance of moderate physical activity throughout the day for overall health and wellness.
Scientists developed a conceptual framework to diagnose nutrient and non-nutrient interactions in agroecosystems, increasing yields and reducing environmental costs. The model considers both nutrient and non-nutrient resource effects on growth, such as light conditions and soil moisture content.
Researchers at the University of Leeds have discovered a powerful way to suppress hepatitis C by targeting different parts of the virus. Two prototype small molecule drugs, p7 inhibitors, attack the virus in distinct ways, suggesting they could be used together with 'direct-acting' drugs for more effective treatment.
A team of researchers has used synchrotron light sources to observe the electron clouds on graphene's surface, revealing how folds and ripples can distort its conductivity. The study provides insight into the importance of understanding graphene's structure and processing methods for industrial applications.
Two studies highlight the relationship between neotectonic activity and rockslide failures, with a third investigation into salinity control on parasequence development in ancient carbonate platforms. Researchers found that rock fracturing due to neotectonic activity is a major conditioning factor for failures, while changes in coastal...
Researchers have created a silver pen capable of writing electrical circuits and interconnects on various surfaces, enabling low-cost and disposable electronics. The pen's ink maintains conductivity through multiple bends and folds, allowing for flexible devices.
A new measurement called 'glycemic profile' (GP) was developed to complement the existing glycemic index (GI) method. GP takes into account the shape and duration of the blood sugar curve after consuming a meal, providing a more accurate picture of the glucose response.
Earl Smith, University of Houston's Dean of Optometry, has developed a treatment strategy to slow the progression of myopia in children. His team is partnering with researchers in Australia to develop new contact lenses that can be used to implement these strategies.
Research found vitamin D supplementation in healthy pregnant women to be both safe and effective, with no adverse effects on mothers or newborns. Daily dosages of up to 4,000 IU were necessary to reach optimal circulating levels of vitamin D.
The new guidelines emphasize the importance of comprehensive lipid control, with a focus on lifestyle interventions as the first step. In high-risk patients, targeted treatments such as statins and combination therapies are recommended to achieve optimal LDL cholesterol levels and reduce cardiovascular risk.
A new study at the University of Gothenburg found that cellulose powder reduces seasonal allergic rhinitis symptoms in children, especially when pollen levels are low to moderate. The treatment has no adverse effects and is suitable for self-care and as a supplement to other treatments.
Researchers tracked bird populations over 25 years in isolated forest fragments and found that many species returned after being thought extinct. The study suggests that local extinction is accompanied by continual recolonization, dependent on habitat size.
A Baylor University study reveals that drought conditions make certain chemicals more toxic to fish and other aquatic life by altering the natural pH levels of the water. The researchers found extreme fluctuations in pH levels during record-breaking droughts, coinciding with increased toxicity to aquatic organisms.
A new species of desert tortoise, Gopherus morafkai, has been discovered after 150 years, revealing the existence of a previously unknown population in Arizona and northwestern Mexico. This discovery highlights the need for conservation efforts to protect this endangered species.
William R. Baldwin, O.D., was inducted into the National Optometry Hall of Fame for his contributions to the field of optometry. He led the University of Houston's College of Optometry and took steps towards becoming a recognized vision research center.
Researchers are working on developing new treatments for brain aneurysms using gel-based delivery systems and mathematical modeling. The goal is to prevent the growth of aneurysms and improve cardiovascular health outcomes, ultimately reducing mortality rates from heart disease and stroke.
Dr. Napoleone Ferrara has made significant contributions to the understanding of angiogenesis, a process that plays a key role in cancer proliferation and various diseases. His research led to the development of new treatments for age-related macular degeneration and cancer.
Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center found an accelerated hepatitis B vaccination schedule to be effective and well-tolerated in high-risk pregnant women. The study's findings suggest that a shortened 12-week vaccine regimen can provide long-term immunity and is comparable to the standard 6-month adult schedule.
A recent Nevada study found that over two-thirds of respondents approved using therapeutic cloning and stem cells to cure cancer or treat heart attacks. For treatment of less-serious conditions, approval rates were lower but still significant. The study suggests a strong public support for stem cell research in the US.
Researchers found that the lack of structure on messenger RNA facilitates protein synthesis, even without a Shine-Dalgarno sequence. The absence of secondary structures on these mRNAs makes it easier for ribosomes to access and identify the start codon.
A new study simulates small-scale convection at the base of the Pacific plate to explain the Hawaiian hotspot's complex observations, including secondary volcanism and chemical asymmetry. The findings provide insight into the composition and dynamics of the mantle.
A landmark editorial in The Spine Journal denounces flawed clinical research in bone growth products and inadequate disclosure of industry relationships. Financial ties between physicians and medical device industries have led to biased and corrupted research, harming patients, according to the editors.
Research reveals bumblebees use a trade-off strategy to visit high-reward flowers while minimizing travel distance. As they gain experience, individual bees balance both factors to optimize their routes.