A new study reveals that protein knots, a complex structure, are strongly conserved in nature, suggesting they have specific functional advantages. The researchers found that knotting patterns are highly conserved, with flexible points of entry, which may contribute to the stability and function of proteins.
Neuroscientists at Caltech found that the primary somatosensory cortex processes both physical and emotional aspects of touch, with brain activity reflecting emotional significance even before actual contact. This finding has implications for understanding autism, sexual abuse, and physical trauma.
Researchers found that autologous lung-derived mensenchymal stem cell transplantation improved functional outcomes in sheep with emphysema, with increased blood perfusion and ECM content. The study suggests a practical alternative to conventional stem cell therapy for treating emphysema.
A new program, RACE-ER, has been implemented to improve heart attack treatment times and patient survival rates. The initiative, which involves all hospitals and emergency services in North Carolina, has reduced the time from diagnosis to treatment from 103 minutes to 91 minutes.
Researchers at Joslin Diabetes Center found that cold exposure stimulates brown fat energy expenditure with fewer other systemic effects, suggesting a promising approach to treating obesity. The study disproves the use of ephedrine as a weight loss drug, which has side effects.
A Mayo Clinic-led study found that high doses of American ginseng reduced cancer-related fatigue in patients more effectively than a placebo. The herb showed significant improvement in general exhaustion at eight weeks, with no apparent side effects.
To slow resistance of western corn rootworm beetles to genetically protected crops, much larger 'refuge' acreages of conventional crops have to be planted, two experts warn. Increasing refuge requirements can delay pest resistance and sustain the benefits of Bt corn.
Researchers will observe the Arc of Venus, a glowing rim around Venus, to learn about its atmosphere and super-rotation. The phenomenon reveals temperature and density structures in Venus' middle atmosphere, shedding light on the planet's mysterious evolution.
Researchers developed a screening tool to predict microcystin levels in lakes prone to blue-green algal blooms. The tool uses phycocyanin measurements and water transparency to provide a quick and affordable assessment of the toxin's presence.
Researchers at the University of Saskatchewan have developed a powerful new tool for analyzing kinases, which are enzymes involved in various cellular processes. The software promises to improve data accuracy and understanding of biology, representing important treatment targets for diseases.
Researchers at Concordia University have developed 3D drawing tools for a software system called Sandde, which allows artists to work intuitively by drawing in thin air. The project aims to bring new dimensionality to visual art, facilitating the free movement of artists as they add 3D layers to their work.
A new study found that men with wider faces, traditionally associated with aggression, are actually more self-sacrifying when their group is competing. The researchers tested this hypothesis by giving students money to play a cooperative game and found that the wider faced men were more generous to their in-group.
Researchers at EMBL found that 15% of human genes influence the secretory pathway, a complex network for transporting molecules to the cell membrane. This discovery suggests cells have evolved a strategy to adapt to environmental changes.
Scientists found that giant insect sizes decreased after birds evolved around 150 million years ago. Insect size was linked to oxygen levels over hundreds of millions of years, with high oxygen concentrations allowing larger insects during the late Carboniferous period.
A new computer-based algorithm developed at the Institute for Clinical Evaluative Sciences calculates each patient's individual risk of death, improving clinical decision-making and hospital admissions. The algorithm can help reduce unnecessary hospital admissions and deaths among heart failure patients.
Researchers have identified changes in adult stem cells and tumor suppressors that contribute to age-related breast cancer vulnerability. The 'HMEC Aging Resource' provides a valuable resource for studying cellular aging, allowing researchers to explore potential preventative measures.
Research suggests that chronic excessive endurance exercise can cause structural changes to the heart and large arteries, leading to myocardial injury. Lifelong vigorous exercisers generally have low mortality and disability rates, but may be at risk for adverse cardiovascular remodeling.
Researchers identified an immune system deficiency that shows a fourfold higher likelihood of death. High levels of free light chains are associated with increased rates of death from cancer, diabetes, and cardiac respiratory disease.
The RHESSI satellite will utilize the June 5-6, 2012 Venus transit to improve its measurements of the sun's diameter. By analyzing the sharpness of the Venus disk as it crosses the sun, scientists can calibrate their instrument and refine their observations of the sun's horizon.
Efforts to green operating rooms can result in significant cost savings for hospitals while reducing their environmental impact. Implementing greening initiatives such as separating waste streams, using closed collection systems and reprocessing single-use devices can generate substantial cost savings.
A team of researchers has created nanoparticles made from DNA and RNA that can deliver snippets of RNA directly to tumors, turning off genes expressed in cancer cells. The new particles pose less risk of side effects and offer better targeting due to their biodegradable nature.
A study by UT Dallas researchers found that Facebook profile pictures reflect individual preferences but also unconscious cultural biases. Westerners tend to focus on central faces, while East Asians emphasize context and surroundings.
An investigational diabetes drug appears to improve insulin sensitivity in mice without the troublesome side effects of current medications, such as weight gain and bone fractures. The drug works through a different pathway, targeting mitochondria instead of PPARγ receptors.
Researchers found that childhood cancer survivors develop secondary gastrointestinal cancers at a rate nearly five times higher than the general population. The study's lead author suggests implementing earlier screening guidelines for this population, particularly those with increased risk factors.
A 1998 medical journal publication sparked concerns about an alleged link between the MMR vaccine and autism, leading to a decline in vaccination rates. The controversy persisted even after epidemiological studies refuted the claim. Research found that higher-educated mothers were less likely to vaccinate their children.
The new Multi-View SPIM microscope allows scientists to image rapid biological processes in thick samples at high resolution. It can record the movements of every nucleus in the embryo throughout its life, providing valuable insights into embryonic development.
Scientists have discovered the detailed structure of the shell surrounding genetic material in retroviruses like HIV at a crucial stage. This finding may lead to the development of new anti-retroviral therapies by targeting the immature virus shell.
A clinical trial found that duloxetine reduced painful tingling feelings caused by chemotherapy in 59 percent of patients. The study suggests that this antidepressant may be an effective treatment for chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy pain.
A study by Ohio State University found that 44% of new mothers increased their Facebook use after giving birth, while 31% of fathers did. This was attributed to the need for social support and feedback during a stressful time. Mothers who reported greater satisfaction with their parenting role had closer ties on Facebook.
Researchers at the University of Maryland have developed a new type of hot electron bolometer that can detect infrared light with high sensitivity and speed. The device uses bilayer graphene to absorb low-energy photons, making it promising for applications in security imaging technologies and studying dark energy.
A computer-based algorithm can accurately predict seven-day heart failure mortality rates in emergency room patients. Researchers also found that childhood cancer survivors are at increased risk for gastrointestinal cancers starting as early as 5.5 years after diagnosis.
A study found that 59% of male and 40% of female maximum-security prison inmates in New York misused topical antibiotics by applying them to dry skin and lips, and as hair grease. Inappropriate use of antibiotic ointments can exacerbate antimicrobial resistance issues.
A study analyzing health insurance claims found that patients with surgical site infections after knee or hip replacement had significantly higher rates of rehospitalization and increased healthcare costs. The analysis suggests that preventing further complications could save the US healthcare system up to $65 million annually.
A new frontline treatment regimen combining carfilzomib, lenalidomide, and low-dose dexamethasone resulted in complete or near complete remission in a majority of patients with newly diagnosed multiple myeloma. The study found that the regimen was well-tolerated, with improved responses as treatment continued.
Researchers at Tel Aviv University discovered a mathematical system used by ancient Egyptians to measure the volume of spherical jugs. By linking units of length to units of volume, merchants could precisely determine the quantity of liquid within, allowing for accurate pricing and trade.
Researchers found that mature hepatocytes offered better repopulation efficiency than stem/progenitor cells after transplantation into liver-injured rats. The mature hepatocytes continued to survive and proliferate for up to one year, while the stem/progenitor cells died within two months.
Children are at risk of liver failure and death from acetaminophen overdoses, which can be prevented with improved labelling, dosing devices, and pharmacist counseling. N-acetylcysteine is the standard treatment for liver toxicity related to an overdose.
A study on Valles Marineris fault zone on Mars suggests left-slip transtensional deformation. In Iraq, a 'missing' Cretaceous arc assemblage has been identified in the Zagros orogenic belt. The Okanagan Valley shear zone in Canada has new age constraints and Phanerozoic protoliths for footwall gneisses.
A study analyzing genetic data from 1,706 father-son pairs found that indigenous religions allow for lower cuckoldry rates, with 1.3% vs 2.9%. This is attributed to menstrual taboos and pollution ideology promoting female honesty about fertility.
A new technique has been developed to efficiently divide wireless spectrum bandwidth in multi-hop networks, improving operation and providing equal 'quality of experience' for all users. This allows for better performance and satisfaction for applications, reducing data traffic jams and increasing overall network efficiency.
A five-year study of nearly 200 youths found that treating adolescents for major depression can also reduce their chances of abusing drugs later on. The study, led by John Curry at Duke University, found that only 10% of those who responded to treatment within 12 weeks later abused drugs, compared to 25% of those who did not respond.
Researchers discovered a brain pathway regulating renal excretion of sodium and blood pressure control. Gαi2 protein levels change with dietary sodium intake, influencing blood pressure and kidney function.
Researchers at VIB and KU Leuven discovered a novel mechanism for exosome formation involving Alix, syntenin, and syndecan proteins. This finding has implications for understanding the role of exosomes in cancer, metastasis, and other diseases.
Four major foundations have committed up to $8.6 million in grants over five years to create a national Center for Interprofessional Education and Collaborative Practice. The center aims to accelerate teamwork and collaboration among health professionals and patients, promoting interprofessional education and practice.
Researchers at Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona have developed a new multitarget molecule, ASS234, which inhibits ß-amyloid protein aggregation, stimulates cholinergic and monoaminergic transmission, and crosses the blood-brain barrier. This molecule has shown promising therapeutic effects in patients with Alzheimer's disease.
Off-label antibiotic use in farm animals poses a significant risk of promoting antibiotic resistance in humans. Canada should phase out antibiotics used for non-medical purposes in livestock and support producers who improve animal living conditions.
A Cleveland Clinic study has detected significant changes in brain activity patterns of patients receiving chemotherapy, supporting the existence of 'chemobrain'. Women showed higher amplitude brain activity after physical and cognitive tasks during treatment.
A recent study found that moderate coffee consumption can appreciably reduce the risk of Alzheimer's disease and delay its onset. Higher blood caffeine levels were associated with a reduced risk of dementia or delayed onset, suggesting that coffee may be a protective factor against Alzheimer's.
A study found that half of adults over 65 made at least one ED visit in the last month of life. In contrast, those with hospice care lived longer outside the hospital. Hospice care provides symptom relief and support for patients nearing end-of-life, whereas ED visits can be expensive and contribute to high costs of care.
The Enriched Xenon Observatory 200 has detected no evidence of neutrinoless double-beta decay, ruling out a previous controversial result. The detector has also narrowed down the mass of the neutrino to less than 140-380 thousandths of an electronvolt.
A new study by Stanford and USC researchers found no significant difference in overall mental abilities between postmenopausal women who took soy supplements and those who didn't. The 2.5-year study also showed a potential gain in visual memory for women taking the supplements, but emphasized the need for further research.
The university's School of Medicine will train and place additional psychiatrists, primary care physicians, advance practice nurses, dentists, and other practitioners to serve Medicaid beneficiaries. The program aims to expand healthcare workforce focused on Medicaid patients' needs.
Researchers have developed a new statistical model that uses medical records to predict a patient's future medical problems, taking into account their past experiences and those of other patients with similar health histories. The algorithm can make accurate predictions even when a patient's medical history is sparse, making it a valua...
Scientists have developed a new X-ray imaging method that improves contrast in computed tomography scans without increasing radiation dose. The technique, called grating interferometry, uses microstructures to enhance contrast and can be combined with clinical CT scanners.
Sander van der Leeuw, dean of Arizona State University's School of Sustainability, was recognized as a 'Champion of the Earth' for his work on human-environmental relations and innovation. He emphasized the need to change mindsets and attitudes to make sustainability a core of everyday behavior.
A multicenter study led by Johns Hopkins researcher Bruce Leff found that six geriatric health care delivery models improved quality of care while reducing medical costs. The study, published in Health Affairs, highlights the effectiveness of models such as NICHE and Pall. Care in improving patient-centered care and reducing costs.
A new process creates high-energy biofuel from biomass, with potential to be economically viable when crude oil is around $100 per barrel. The method has significant advantages over traditional methods and could become even more economical with a federal carbon tax.
A new study suggests that some physicians would recommend colorectal cancer screening for 80-year-old patients with advanced lung cancer who would not benefit from the procedure. Physicians were found to be more likely to recommend invasive tests like colonoscopy rather than non-invasive ones.
Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center have mapped the atomic-level architecture of the CLOCK complex, a key component of the body's circadian rhythm. The study provides insights into how this protein works and may lead to better treatments for insomnia, diabetes, and cancer.
Researchers at UTSC used electroanalytic technique voltammetry to study dopamine and alpha-synuclein interactions, finding that higher pH levels and ionic strengths facilitate aggregate formation. The findings could lead to new ways to screen drugs for Parkinson's disease treatment.