Two UNC researchers, Dr. Joseph Piven and Dr. Linmarie Sikich, have been awarded $12.6 million grants to establish new autism research networks and conduct studies on early brain markers and oxytocin-based treatments. These grants further solidify UNC's position as a premier institution for autism research.
USDA scientists developed a hormone treatment to strengthen male Mexican fruit flies, allowing them to compete with wild-type males for female mates more effectively. The therapy uses methoprene and hydrolyzed protein supplements, resulting in faster maturation and improved mating success.
Tropical Storm Leslie showed little change in form and strength over a 22-hour period, with maximum sustained winds remaining near 60-65 mph. The storm is expected to strengthen into a hurricane by the end of the week as wind shear relaxes.
The 'magic carpet' technology uses plastic optical fibres to map a person's walking patterns and identify gradual changes or sudden incidents like falls. As many as 30%-40% of community-dwelling older people fall each year, making this technology vital for preventing accidents.
Researchers found that high doses of vitamin D, given with antibiotic treatment, accelerate recovery in TB patients by dampening down the body's inflammatory response. Vitamin D supplementation may also benefit patients recovering from pneumonia.
A new feasibility study suggests a generic framework for researcher professional development across Europe, overcoming deficiencies and promoting mobility. The framework aims to support researchers in their career aspirations and provide a common language for describing skills.
Researchers found that men have a greater sensitivity to fine detail and rapidly moving stimuli, while women excel at distinguishing colors. This difference is attributed to the presence of more neurons in the visual cortex of males.
A new systematic review of human studies and nutrient levels in unprocessed foods found that organic foods lack strong evidence for being more nutritious than conventional foods. However, organic produce contained higher levels of total phenols and organic milk and chicken had higher levels of omega-3 fatty acids. NA-ACCORD also showed...
Researchers developed a method to analyze ear-bone 'tree rings' to track juvenile fish movements, revealing surprising plasticity and long-distance migrations between habitats. This study has important implications for management and protection of coral reefs.
Researchers discovered that brown capuchin monkeys were more prosocial when given the opportunity to alternate and help each other, but not when tracking individual past choices. This suggests that reciprocity fosters generosity in humans as well, regardless of familiarity or group affiliation.
A recent study by CSIRO and Australian Maritime College reveals that ship engine exhaust emissions account for over a quarter of nitrogen oxide emissions in the Australian region. These non-greenhouse gases can affect air quality near coastal regions and have consequences for human health and amenity.
A new study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that children taking inhaled steroid drugs for asthma are slightly shorter at their full adult height compared to those who don't use the medication. The study followed over 1,000 children aged 5-12 and found a mean difference of about half an inch in adult height.
Researchers will track nutrient water quality and examine pollution levels when sediments are stirred up by storms, creating a statistical model to inform policy decisions. The study aims to understand the role of storms in transferring excess phosphates and nitrates from rivers into coastal seas.
Researchers at Ruhr-University Bochum developed a new method for studying the interaction between pharmaceuticals and their target proteins. The new technique uses infrared difference spectroscopy, which allows for the analysis of dynamic processes in proteins that were previously inaccessible.
Researchers have measured high levels of DDT in breast milk from nursing mothers in malaria-stricken villages in South Africa, far exceeding World Health Organization limits. The findings highlight the need to decrease exposure to DDT, which has been linked to various health issues, including cancer and impaired reproductive health.
A study of 249 people aged 60-64 found that those with high fasting blood sugar levels within the normal range experienced greater brain shrinkage than those with lower levels. Brain volume loss was particularly pronounced in areas involved in memory and cognitive skills, such as the hippocampus and amygdala.
A new study found that smoking history, specifically pack-years, can predict mortality in people with COPD. The researchers analyzed 208 participants and identified age, pack-years, and emphysema area as strong predictors of mortality.
Case studies published in the Journal of Vocational Rehabilitation show Apple iPod Touch PDAs as effective vocational supports for adults with autism spectrum disorder. The device provides strategies to help individuals with ASD function more successfully in the workplace, including task reminders, lists, and video prompts.
A study published in Archives of Neurology found an association between Parkinson disease and an increased risk of prostate cancer and melanoma in patients with PD and their relatives. The research used a Utah genealogic database and a statewide cancer registry to examine the relationship between the two diseases.
A Stanford University study analyzing existing research on organic and conventional foods found limited evidence of health benefits for organic food. The review did show that consumption of organic foods can reduce pesticide exposure, but also noted that the differences were not clinically significant.
The pollination services provided by insects like bees and hover-flies are crucial for global food production, but declining pollinators threaten this ecosystem service. The loss of pollinators could lead to reduced crop yields and decreased fruit and vegetable availability, exacerbating food insecurity.
A new study suggests that a warmer Earth generally increases biodiversity, but only after millions of years. However, current trends of increasing temperature are expected to cause diversity loss in the short term due to the speed of change.
Researchers found that nerve cells in the posterior medial cortex (PMC) are strongly activated during recall tasks but suppressed when performing mathematical calculations. This study provides new insights into the brain's introspective activities and highlights the importance of the PMC region.
A recent study published in Archives of Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine found that approximately 46.3% of adolescents with an autism spectrum disorder were victims of bullying. The study also revealed significant social and environmental factors contributing to bullying involvement among this population.
Researchers at the University of Nottingham have developed a novel antimicrobial catheter that can kill most urinary bacteria, including Proteus bacteria, for up to twelve weeks. This innovation has significant advantages over existing solutions, offering a solution to recurrent infections in long-term catheter users.
In Chitwan National Park, Nepal, tigers have shifted their nocturnal activity to coexist with people, indicating a potential middle ground for human and tiger survival. The study suggests that conservation efforts can consider both nature and humans, paving the way for sustainable solutions.
A new study reveals that metabolic syndrome is associated with impaired brain function in adolescents, including lower math and spelling scores, decreased attention span, and reduced brain structure. The findings emphasize the importance of addressing childhood obesity to prevent long-term cognitive and brain impairments.
A newly discovered neural pathway in the autonomic nervous system reaches bones and regulates bone density during adolescence, affecting fracture resistance throughout life. The finding could lead to new therapies for osteoporosis and neural disorders, such as depression and Alzheimer's disease.
A study found that prenatal exposure to maternal cigarette smoking is associated with increased risk of adolescent obesity. The authors suggest that this may be due to subtle structural variations in the brain's amygdala, which could influence dietary preferences for fatty foods.
A study found that plain cigarette packs reduce their appeal among young Brazilian women, while branded packs are considered more stylish and sophisticated. The research supports the recommendation for plain packaging to reduce smoking among youth and young adults.
A new study reveals that parental issues and chaotic home environments are preventing children from taking their prescribed asthma medication. The research found that factors such as family life, parenting problems, financial issues, and lack of parental support are contributing to low adherence rates.
Researchers found that a medication inhibiting inflammation showed promise in treating major depression, especially in individuals with high levels of inflammation. The study employed infliximab, an antibody blocking tumor necrosis factor, and demonstrated improved symptoms in subjects with elevated C-reactive protein levels.
Researchers at the Singapore Eye Research Institute and Genome Institute of Singapore have identified three new genes linked to PACG, a leading cause of blindness worldwide. The study used genome-wide association analysis and validation experiments to uncover genetic risk factors for the disease.
A new Johns Hopkins study shows that a triple-threat approach to central line care can reduce life-threatening infections in pediatric cancer patients. By deploying strict device-handling precautions and involving families in oversight, the researchers were able to prevent one in five infections over two years.
A study of 1,216 individuals found a positive association between PFOA levels and the presence of cardiovascular disease (CVD) and peripheral arterial disease. Higher PFOA levels were associated with an increased risk of CVD and PAD.
New global benchmarks for lung function have been established, providing a consistent measurement across the entire life span. These charts will help healthcare professionals better understand lung disease progression and raise awareness of its impact on people worldwide.
Researchers found that A-kinase anchoring proteins (AKAPs) regulate glucose levels by coordinating phosphatases in cells. Mice lacking AKAP150 produced less insulin but coped better with limited hormone due to increased sensitivity in target tissues.
Researchers developed a mass spectrometry protein assay called PRISM that matches the sensitivity and accuracy of clinical antibody-based tests. The technique can identify proteins from blood with high accuracy and speed up development of diagnostic tests and treatments.
Between 2000-2008, the proportion of HIV-infected patients in the US receiving effective treatment increased from 54% to 83%, leading to reduced infectiousness and healthier immune systems. This trend was observed across all age groups, regardless of treatment adherence.
Researchers at Lund University have developed a new approach that links gene variants to their effect on insulin production in human beta cells. The study explains 25% of variations in blood sugar levels, providing greater insight into the causes of type 2 diabetes.
Researchers used whole-genome sequencing to track TB outbreak, identifying origin and movement of pathogens, key persons and behaviors that contributed to spread. The study found location-based transmission is crucial for outbreak management and informs public health policy and practice.
The study found an increase in non-smokers developing lung cancer, particularly women, and a shift towards adenocarcinoma. Researchers attributed this change to improved diagnostic techniques and management of lung cancer.
Scientists have found that using waste cooking oil as a starting material can produce high-quality bioplastics, including Polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA), three times more efficiently than glucose. This reduces production costs and enables the use of PHA in medical implants and drug delivery.
Researchers found that enzyme-modified coconut oil strongly inhibited the growth of Streptococcus bacteria, a major cause of tooth decay. The study suggests that incorporating this natural compound into dental hygiene products could be a promising approach to combating microbial infection.
Research using mice reveals heavy alcohol use rewires brain circuitry, making it harder for alcoholics to recover psychologically following a traumatic experience. The study found that chronic exposure to alcohol impairs the ability to control emotional responses, putting people at greater risk for PTSD.
A new study presented at the European Respiratory Society's Annual Congress found that marathon running can trigger pulmonary oedema in some individuals. Women were at higher risk of developing pulmonary oedema than men, regardless of their marathon finishing time.
Scientists have restored the sense of smell in mice through gene therapy, providing a hopeful sign for those born without or losing their sense of smell due to disease. The breakthrough may also aid research into other cilia-related diseases, such as polycystic kidney disease and retinitis pigmentosa.
Researchers restored olfactory function in mice with congenital anosmia by introducing a healthy copy of the IFT88 gene, leading to improved feeding behavior and weight gain. The study suggests a potential therapeutic approach for treating people born with anosmia.
Researchers identified a unique cell type that bridges bone marrow stem cells and the entire human immune system, offering insights into healthy immune function and potential therapies for diseases. The study's findings have significant implications for understanding cancer development and treatment.
Molecular biologists at the University of Texas at Austin have discovered that DEAD-box proteins, ancient enzymes found in all forms of life, function as recycling 'nanopistons' to unwind RNA. This mechanism has implications for treating cancer and viruses in humans.
A new study found that e-cigarette use caused a significant increase in airway resistance, lasting for 10 minutes, regardless of health status. The research suggests that e-cigarettes may be more harmful than marketed, highlighting the need for further investigation.
A new study reveals a significant prevalence of respiratory problems among people aged 85 years and over, with 20% of men and 21% of women having asthma or COPD. The study highlights the growing need for healthcare professionals to understand the challenges faced by this rapidly aging population.
Researchers developed a realistic computer simulation to predict drug effects and identify why some treatments fail. The model factors in precise doses, prescription adherence, and viral replication to help develop better combination therapies.
A new study has identified several factors associated with an increased risk of bullying in children with asthma, including reduced participation in sports and feelings of sadness. Doctors must now discuss the impact of asthma on a child's life, including working with families and schools to remove risk factors.
Researchers found a significant link between sleep apnoea and overactive bladder syndrome in women, with symptoms of urgency, frequency, and nocturia prevalent among those diagnosed with sleep apnoea. The study suggests that continuous positive airway pressure therapy may help alleviate bladder control issues.
Researchers uncover nearly 358 genetic variants associated with disease predisposition, including rare regulatory variants that were previously undetectable. This study sheds new light on the complex role of gene regulation in human diseases.
Researchers analyzed data from a national screening trial to understand characteristics of undetectable lung cancers. They found that these cancers were more common among males and those with a history of smoking, and were often small cell lung cancers at an advanced stage.
Researchers have developed a new technique to measure muscle loss in critically ill patients using ultrasound. This breakthrough may help identify those at high risk of muscle-wasting and inform targeted interventions.
A new mathematical model developed by Harvard scientists helps predict the likelihood of drug resistance in HIV patients, enabling the design of more effective treatment cocktails. The model uses data from clinical trials to simulate patient responses to varying drug dosages, providing a valuable tool for researchers and clinicians.
A recent study suggests that some blood clots identified by sensitive testing methods may not require treatment, potentially reducing risks of bleeding complications. However, developing guidelines to accurately identify patients who can benefit from anticoagulant therapy is crucial.