Researchers have discovered a way to store diverse forms of artificial short-term memories in isolated brain tissue. They demonstrated that neural circuits in the hippocampus can maintain memories for more than 10 seconds and recognize specific contexts, such as sequences of stimuli. This breakthrough has significant implications for u...
Rhode Island Hospital has been awarded a $10.8 million grant from the National Institutes of Health to support translational research on cartilage and joint health. The five-year project aims to develop treatments and preventative tactics for diseases such as arthritis, osteoporosis, and bone-related cancers.
Studies find extended office hours reduce health expenditures and improve breast cancer outcomes for Medicare beneficiaries. Additionally, research on adult cancer survivors reveals the need for primary care engagement in follow-up care, while a team-based model of primary care offers potential solutions to excessive patient panel sizes.
Bacteria use a reversible switching mechanism to adapt to environments lacking oxygen, revealing a new 'antioxidant' pathway for repairing damaged proteins. This discovery has implications for the development of new antibiotics and our understanding of iron-sulfur cluster proteins in various cellular processes.
Cocaine withdrawal affects emotion and motivation due to the activation of CB1 cells in the brain. These cells, responsible for regulating nerve cell communication, slow down activity in the nucleus accumbens when an addict is high on cocaine, leading to a drag on emotions and motivation during withdrawal.
A review of twelve studies on joint replacement surgery found no conclusive evidence for weight loss after the procedure. In fact, some patients even gained weight due to improved mobility and reduced pain.
Two groundbreaking papers from the CMS and ATLAS experiments announce the discovery of the elusive Higgs boson, marking a major milestone in particle physics. The observation confirms the Standard Model of particle physics and validates theories explaining how elementary particles can have mass.
The University of British Columbia has secured over $20 million in funding to combat neglected global diseases, including HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, and malaria. Research projects include a $7M grant from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation to study pre-eclampsia and a project to improve nutrition in rural Cambodia.
Researchers have found that an off-patent anti-inflammatory drug, oxyphenbutazone, can kill both replicating and non-replicating drug-resistant tuberculosis in laboratory tests. The effective drug may offer a potential new therapy for the over 500,000 people worldwide whose TB has become resistant to standard drug treatments.
A study published in Neurosurgery found that women with moyamoya disease are at higher risk of adverse outcomes, including stroke, after surgical treatment. Despite this, both men and women experience significant improvements in health and functioning after surgery.
Tropical Storm Leslie and Hurricane Michael are being closely monitored by NASA, with Leslie now past Bermuda and Michael weakening due to cooler waters. Leslie is expected to transition from a warm core system to a cold core system, while Michael's weakening is attributed to atmospheric conditions and ocean temperatures.
MicroRNA-145-based gene therapy reduces plaque size and increases stability in mice, providing new insights into atherosclerosis treatment. The approach also makes the fibrous cap area more resilient to rupture, a key event in heart attacks.
A reduced dietary pattern featuring less red and processed meat significantly reduces the risk of coronary artery disease, type 2 diabetes, and bowel cancer by 3-12%. It also leads to a substantial reduction in greenhouse gas emissions equivalent to 28 million tonnes of CO2 per year.
A study published in Circulation found that moderate red wine consumption reduces cardiovascular risk more effectively than vodka, thanks to its antioxidant properties. The researchers also discovered that red wine dilates blood vessels, while vodka induces the development of collateral vessels.
Researchers at the University of Maryland School of Medicine have found that cardiac stem cells from newborns have a three-fold ability to restore heart function compared to adult-derived cells. This discovery may lead to new treatment options for congenital heart syndrome and improve heart function in children by up to 15 percent.
Researchers found that aerosol particles in the Amazon rainforest, including those containing organic compounds and terpenes, often have high levels of potassium salts. These salts play a crucial role in cloud formation by providing seeds for liquid droplets to condense on.
A large-scale study confirms that empathic physician-patient relationships are associated with better clinical outcomes, including lower hospitalization rates and fewer complications. The study analyzed data from over 20,000 diabetic patients and 242 physicians in Italy.
Researchers developed an emotion detector using a genetic algorithm that recognizes six human emotions and neutral expression. The system analyzes upper and lower lip shapes to improve interaction between humans and computers.
A new study published in Neurology finds that people who drink heavily (3+ drinks/day) are at higher risk for stroke almost a decade and a half earlier than those who don't. Heavy drinking is linked to a more severe form of stroke, leading to poorer long-term outcomes.
A study by CWRU nurse researchers found that the physical, mental, emotional, and time-related cost of home caregiving saps caregivers' energy. Higher effort correlated with higher depressive symptoms in caregivers.
Researchers at UW-Madison have identified a small DNA sequence, the +9.5 GATA2 switch site, that plays a crucial role in controlling GATA2 production and generating self-renewing blood stem cells.
Researchers found that droughts exacerbated by warming temperatures are causing plants to experience stressful growing conditions, especially in low to middle elevations. The study used a growing season index to model and map potential plant responses to droughts under past, present, and future conditions.
A Mayo-led study finds that pancreatic cancer develops from the interaction of KRAS mutations, inflammation, and epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), requiring multiple genetic factors for tumor formation. The study suggests that EGFR inhibitors may be effective in treating patients with chronic pancreatitis or normal p53 activity.
Researchers warn that pending cases threaten public health in India, highlighting legal challenges to key provisions of the Patents Act. The report argues that the country's patent laws can help improve access to medicines if properly applied.
A new study shows that crows react to threats in a human-like way, with brain regions activated similarly to those in mammals. The research used a novel approach to study bird behavior, involving awake crows wearing masks, and has implications for reducing stress in captive animals.
Researchers calculated wind power potential worldwide, accounting for climate impacts and found it exceeds global energy demands. The maximum theoretical potential is over 250 terawatts globally and 80 TW over land and ocean areas.
A new dengue vaccine candidate, CYD-TDV, has shown promising results in a phase 2b trial with an effective rate of 60-90% against DENV 1, 3, and 4 viruses. The vaccine was also found to be safe and well-tolerated, with no serious adverse events reported.
A study by UNC pediatrics researchers found that younger overweight children consume more calories per day than their healthy weight peers, but older overweight children consume fewer calories. This surprising finding suggests that different strategies may be needed to help children in both age groups reach a healthy weight.
Researchers developed a method to measure mercury and other toxic metals in fluids using nano-velcro, which can detect methyl mercury at record-breaking accuracy. The device is cheap, easy to use and may lead to safer foods on the dinner table.
A new report by the Zoological Society of London identifies 100 of the most threatened animals, plants, and fungi on the planet, highlighting their unique value to nature. The report emphasizes that all species have a right to exist and should be protected, regardless of their perceived utility for humans.
A Canadian study found that vigorous physical activity is associated with reduced body mass index z score, waist circumference, systolic blood pressure, and increased cardiorespiratory fitness in youth. The study included 605 youth aged 12.1 years and found that performing more than seven minutes of vigorous PA daily was linked to lowe...
This September 2012 issue of the Genetics Society of America's journal features studies on weak selection in molecular evolution, a new method for mapping quantitative trait loci onto phylogenetic trees, and the role of DNA replication defects in causing chromosome rearrangements. Additionally, researchers investigate ultraconserved el...
A new study shows that combining a protein inhibitor with VEGF targeting could more effectively treat diseases by shutting down abnormal blood vessel growth. This approach may also lead to improved treatments for eye diseases and autoimmune disorders.
A new study found that flu vaccination rates vary widely by ethnicity in Canada, with non-white Canadians having lower rates. The study analyzed data from 12 ethnic groups and found significantly higher vaccination rates among Filipino, Japanese, and Chinese Canadians compared to white and black Canadians.
Higher serum ferritin levels are linked to lower adiponectin production, a protein regulating blood glucose. Reducing ferritin levels improves insulin sensitivity and glucose tolerance in humans.
Researchers at UGA have made a major medical breakthrough by discovering how an oxygen-sensing bacterial protein senses oxygen through reversible structural changes in an iron-sulfur cluster. This mechanism could ultimately lead to a better understanding of the aging process and new treatments for human diseases.
A University of Illinois metabolic engineer has synthesized a key breast milk ingredient, 2-fluoro-lactose (2FL), which could lead to the development of infant formula. This breakthrough allows researchers to study the role of 2FL in infant nutrition and make recommendations for its addition to infant formula.
The US Preventive Services Task Force recommends against annual screening for ovarian cancer in asymptomatic women due to potential harms. Reduced out-of-pocket expenses can improve medication adherence for chronic conditions, with case management and patient education showing strong evidence.
Archaeologists are near discovering King Richard III's possible burial place following major finds including medieval inlaid floor tiles, paving stones and a lost garden. The University of Leicester's archaeological dig at Greyfriars will continue for another week after huge public support and global media interest.
Researchers at the University of Utah discovered that Wnt signaling is essential for the production and specialization of nerve cell precursors in the hypothalamus. The study found that Wnt signaling continues to be required for adult neurogenesis, suggesting a key role in brain plasticity.
A 10-week LifeSkills program improved teens' ability to control anger, decreased anxiety, and lowered blood pressures, with benefits holding up at six months. The program, adapted for adolescents, teaches assertiveness, sound decision-making, and positive interactions to reduce stress and improve overall well-being.
A nationwide consortium of scientists has reported a comprehensive genetic analysis of squamous cell carcinoma of the lung, revealing almost 75% of patients' cancers have targetable mutations. The research provides insight into the molecular biology of lung squamous cell carcinoma and identifies potential targets for therapies.
Researchers have characterized the lung squamous cell carcinoma genome, identifying commonly known cancer genes and mutations that could be targeted therapeutically. The study, led by UNC Lineberger scientists, paves the way for developing better, more targeted treatments for this devastating disease.
A team of researchers developed an automated system to map protein-DNA interactions, uncovering a hierarchical structure for the regulatory code. They found that regulatory factors can be classified into three levels, with each tier governing cell type, sub-identity and specialized gene expression.
The AAO-HNSF 2012 meeting showcased groundbreaking research on smoking cessation, cochlear implants, and the relationship between childhood obesity and otitis media. New findings also explored music-induced hearing loss and the assessment of quality of life in bilateral cochlear implant patients.
Researchers used satellite radar images and GPS receivers to detect the 8-14 centimeter rise in the island's surface. The team calculated that the amount of molten rock beneath Santorini has grown by 10-20 years' worth, but this does not necessarily indicate an imminent eruption.
The AAO-HNSF 2012 new poster presentations cover various topics in otolaryngology, including rhinoplasty, facial trauma, and head and neck cancer. The studies aim to improve treatment outcomes and address common challenges in the field.
Researchers have discovered three new genetic regions linked to primary biliary cirrhosis, bringing the total number of known regions to 25. The study used Immunochip technology to survey the genome for signs of autoimmune disease susceptibility.
Researchers have identified several potential therapeutic targets for squamous cell lung cancer, including alterations in the TP53 and CDKN2A genes. These genetic changes may be susceptible to drug inhibition, providing new opportunities for clinical trials and potentially transforming treatment outcomes.
A new study shows that integrating on-site rapid HIV testing into drug treatment programs is cost-effective, with a beneficial cost-effectiveness ratio of $60,300 per QALY. This approach provides better value than off-site referral and can help identify more people infected with HIV.
The 2012 AAO-HNSF Annual Meeting featured cutting-edge research on aging, sleep apnea, chronic rhinosinusitis, and hearing loss. Attendees could access approximately 100 miniseminars, 250 scientific sessions, and 445 posters.
New research suggests that more than 400 terrawatts of power can be extracted from surface winds and over 1,800 terrawatts from high-altitude winds, meeting or exceeding global energy demand.
An international team of scientists has shown at an unprecedented level of detail how cells prioritize the repair of genes containing potentially dangerous damage. Cells use proteins to detect and replace damaged DNA, with critical steps at individual protein reads likely critical for successful repair.
Researchers at OHSU's Vaccine and Gene Therapy Institute studied the mechanism behind protection offered by slightly weakened monkey AIDS virus versions that were too risky for human use. The study reveals that anti-viral T cells in lymphoid tissue are responsible for this protection, which is lost when the virus is further weakened.
A new analysis examines the effects of widespread forest die-offs on ecosystem processes, species diversity, and human services such as water purification and real-estate property values. The study highlights the need for a multidisciplinary approach to understand the complex consequences of climate-driven forest mortality.
Researchers tracked parasite-induced disease and death in reintroduced wolf packs in Yellowstone National Park, finding that mange did not infect wolves until 2007. The diseases that infected the wolves quickly were all viral, including canine distemper and parvovirus, while mange is a skin infection caused by scabies mites.
Researchers have developed a novel oral antiseptic spray, Halo, effective in killing 99.9% of infectious airborne germs, including influenza and rhinovirus. The spray prevents germs from entering the system and kills them, providing sustained protection for up to six hours.
A multi-national team of researchers has identified genetic variations on chromosomes 6p21 and 16q24 associated with Barrett's oesophagus. The discovery provides a basis for genetically screening individuals at high risk, as well as developing new therapy targets.
A Swiss-American team has developed a simple, inexpensive system to detect heavy metal pollutants like mercury in water and fish. The new method uses nanoparticles with tiny hairs that can trap toxic substances, enabling accurate measurements at unprecedentedly small concentrations.
Researchers identified 33 genes associated with GAA/TTC repeat instability and expansions in yeast. These findings may have implications for human disease due to the conservation of genetic machinery across species.