Researchers at ORNL and Yale created a nanopore with radio-frequency electric field to trap segments of DNA and other biomolecules. The 'aqueous virtual pore' allows for controlled movement of DNA through the nanopore without physical walls.
Scientists at the Salk Institute have identified fibroblast growth factor 1 (FGF1) as a crucial protein in maintaining insulin sensitivity and regulating fat storage. The discovery offers new avenues for treating type 2 diabetes, potentially providing a more natural alternative to existing antidiabetic drugs.
Researchers found gabapentin significantly reduces cannabis use and withdrawal symptoms, improving cognitive skills. The study suggests gabapentin could become first FDA-approved treatment for cannabis dependence.
Researchers discovered that maize crops emit chemicals attracting growth-promoting microbes to live amongst their roots. This attracts beneficial bacteria, making important nutrients like iron and phosphorous more available, and competing against harmful bacteria.
An amateur paleontologist has discovered a massive, roughly elliptical shape with multiple lobes, totaling almost seven feet in length, which is believed to be a biological organism. The team plans to reconstruct the timeline of the fossil's life and burial events to better understand its origins.
Brown University researchers found that RNA editing enzyme activity varies with temperature, affecting fly behavior in mating and daily routines. High or low self-editing levels can create different personalities, such as wallflowers or pick-up artists, highlighting the significance of this process in animal behavior.
Obese and overweight children are more disliked by their classmates than healthy-weight peers, study finds. This negative social environment can lead to decreased physical activity and emotional eating, making childhood obesity worse over time.
The University of Nevada, Reno's GPS technology will be used by NASA to monitor strong earthquakes along the West Coast. The system can detect changes in ground positions greater than 10 centimeters in real-time.
A new study by Georgia Institute of Technology researchers found that managing negative thoughts and emotions is crucial for a successful job search. Effective self-management strategies, such as seeking social support and developing daily routines, can increase the likelihood of landing employment and sustaining motivation over time.
A recent study published in Suicide and Life-Threatening Behavior found that nearly one-third of adults who were physically abused in childhood seriously considered taking their own life. The study suggests that children exposed to physical abuse may be at greater risk for suicidal behaviours in adulthood.
A new study found that common native red oak seedlings grow eight times faster in New York's Central Park due to urban heat levels. This phenomenon could have implications for changing climate and forest composition over a wide region. The research suggests that warmer temperatures, especially at night, can promote tree growth.
Research suggests that whole egg consumption can improve markers of metabolic syndrome, including HDL metabolism and inflammation. Higher-protein breakfasts also lead to increased feelings of satiety and reduced high-fat snacking.
The report emphasizes the need for more attention and resources devoted to issues facing older children. Adverse trends include early marriage and birth among girls, and high adolescent birth rates, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa.
Researchers found that daily consumption of dark chocolate (70% cocoa) lowered blood glucose and LDL cholesterol levels while increasing HDL cholesterol levels. This study suggests that moderate dark chocolate consumption may help reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease by improving glucose and lipid profiles.
Researchers at Duke University have developed a new technique to assemble crystalline structures using varying concentrations of microscopic particles and magnetic fields. They demonstrated the creation of over 20 programmed structures, paving the way for advanced optics, data storage, and bioengineering applications.
Scientists from Max Planck Institute discover pod corn's unique trait is caused by a damaged transcription factor controlling glume growth. The mutated gene leads to glumes resembling leaf sheaths and kernels covered in fine membranous husks.
Researchers have discovered evidence of humans consuming elephant meat and bone marrow in the Middle Palaeolithic site of Preresa, Madrid. The findings, published in the Journal of Archaeological Science, suggest that the practice was not as common as previously thought due to the difficulty of extracting marrow from bones.
A new study finds that chronic fatigue syndrome patients have decreased activation of the basal ganglia in response to reward, associated with increased fatigue levels. The findings shed light on the biology of this mysterious disease and may lead to better treatments.
Researchers found a link between bingeing on fat and cocaine-seeking behavior in rats, indicating that conditions promoting excessive behavior towards one substance can increase the probability of excessive behavior towards another. This study may shed light on the factors that promote substance abuse and addiction.
A review of eight studies suggests that fish oil supplementation can improve clinical measures of periodontitis, particularly when combined with aspirin. Intake of long-chain omega-3 fatty acids is recommended for general health benefits beyond oral care.
Research suggests that dietary changes can help alleviate ADHD symptoms in some children, but more studies are needed to understand the benefits and limitations.
Researchers have found that non-coding RNA molecules can detect the presence of viruses in cells, providing a potential tool for developing new treatments. The discovery was made using deep sequencing technology and has been used to identify infected cells with 100% accuracy.
Scientists from NASA's Precipitation Measurement Missions discovered that light rain makes up 50-60% of total precipitation in the region, contributing to freshwater resources. The study used satellite data and ground-based instruments to validate measurements and make new discoveries.
Researchers found that internal friction significantly slows down the protein folding process, making it easier for proteins to get stuck in unfolded states. This understanding could lead to new insights into diseases like Alzheimer's, where misfolded proteins contribute to amyloid plaques.
A dairy study funded by the American Jersey Cattle Club Research Foundation investigates how breed and conformation affect cow longevity. Dr. Pablo Pinedo aims to compare the productive life of Jerseys, Holsteins, and their crosses in multi-breed herds.
Researchers at Carnegie Mellon University and AT&T found that a vibrating steering wheel reduces driver distraction by 4-9% compared to traditional GPS systems. The study suggests personalizing sensory feedback based on age may improve driver performance and safety.
The rate of workplace deaths in Michigan remained steady in 2011, with the construction industry having the most deaths at 24. However, new research reveals a vast underreporting of workplace burns, with 1,461 work-related burns reported, more than three times the number reported by employers.
The Lancet Series on Adolescent Health highlights the worsening health status of adolescents worldwide, who face new challenges such as social media. The authors emphasize the need for improved adolescent health, considering factors like poverty, education, and digital media.
Researchers at Mayo Clinic have identified a single gene, MMP-10, that promotes the development and spread of lung cancer. This discovery suggests that targeting this gene may be an effective way to treat non-small cell lung cancer.
The center section of NASA's James Webb Space Telescope has been completed, marking a significant milestone in the telescope's hardware development. The backplane will support the telescope's mirrors, instruments, and thermal control systems during its mission.
A review of previous studies found that Botox injections are associated with a small to modest benefit for patients with chronic migraine and chronic daily headaches, but not for episodic migraines or tension-type headaches. The treatment was linked to improved frequency of chronic conditions, such as headache reduction from 19.5 to 17.2.
The Lancet comments urge major investments in adolescent health, with a focus on preventive interventions. The authors argue that adolescence is critical for global health goals and that investing in the second decade of life will determine economic success and quality of life.
Prevention programmes in adolescents are vital to prevent problems in adolescence and into adulthood. Successful policies include providing minors with free contraception, raising taxes on alcohol, and graduated licensing policies.
A study of over 72,000 VLBW infants found better outcomes in hospitals with recognition for nursing excellence, including lower rates of hospital infection, death at 7-days, and severe intraventricular hemorrhage. The researchers suggest that higher-quality neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) and obstetric care may contribute to these ...
Researchers developed a novel method to distinguish sea-level fingerprints from various processes, allowing for more accurate estimation of individual ice sheets' contributions to rising global sea levels. The new approach may help estimate the current rate of sea level rise and rates of ice sheet melting simultaneously.
Fibronectin play a crucial role in wound healing and embryonic development, but its role in disease progression is not well understood. Researchers have identified molecular probes that can selectively attach to fibronectin fibers under different strain states, enabling the detection of strain events in both culture and living tissues.
Structural changes to improve access to education and employment are crucial for improving adolescent health, with studies showing completion of secondary school provides great benefits. Education also improves survival rates, reduces injury mortality, and lowers HIV prevalence among adolescents.
Researchers found that larger, younger, and more fertile females increase the chances of successful fertilization for males. Monogamous behavior, where males mate with one female, is favored in early morning mating, while bigynous males opt for second mates if they cannot secure a first mate.
Cardiac device infective endocarditis (CDIE) is a serious complication with high in-hospital and 1-year mortality rates, especially if valve involvement occurs. Coexisting valve infection and heart failure were also common complications.
Oded Netzer, a Columbia Business School professor, has received the 2012 George S. Eccles Research Award for his groundbreaking research on quantitative methods to understand customer preferences. His work focuses on dynamic segmentation and a marketing framework to move customers toward deeper relationships with firms.
The Lancet emphasizes the importance of measuring adolescent health and behavior, setting goals for healthy development, and implementing preventive interventions. By prioritizing adolescent health, policymakers can harness young people's energy, innovation, and productivity to drive progress.
Research highlights the impact of inadequate sleep on pilots' cognitive performance, mood, and piloting skills. The author proposes fatigue prediction models, sleep hygiene education, and wearable technologies to mitigate the risks of pilot fatigue.
Countries with limited health research capacity are mainly small islands and politically isolated nations, according to international experts. Establishing national health research strategies is crucial for public health systems to function and thrive.
Scientists from the University of Bonn found over 60 new paramyxovirus species in bats and rodents, revealing that bats are the original hosts of these viruses. The study suggests that bats may be a reservoir for dangerous viruses, making it challenging to eradicate them.
A study published in The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine found that combining CAM therapies like acupuncture, chiropractic, and massage with conventional care significantly improves outcomes for patients with lower back pain. This integrated approach shows promise as a multidisciplinary team-based model of care.
Researchers at Harvard's Wyss Institute have developed a microfluidic device that can capture and culture rare circulating tumor cells from blood, providing insights into patient-specific drug sensitivity and cancer progression. The technology has the potential to become a valuable tool for cancer diagnosis and personalized treatment.
Michael Young, a lung transplant recipient, credits his new lungs for giving him the joy of breathing again. His remarkable survival story highlights UT Southwestern's exceptional Lung Transplant Program, with an 86% one-year and 75% three-year survival rate.
A new study found that children who experienced violence in their young lives have shorter telomeres, a sign of accelerated aging. This can increase the risk of chronic diseases and poor survival rates. The research suggests a link between cumulative childhood stress and telomere maintenance.
A randomized controlled trial found that targeted text messages increased influenza vaccination coverage among low-income, urban children and adolescents. The study showed a higher proportion of vaccinated individuals in the intervention group, with 93.9% receiving vaccines outside of Saturday clinics compared to 97.2% in usual care.
The survey found that a majority of Harris County residents (56%) believe a well-developed mass transit system is very important for the future success of the Houston area. Additionally, perspectives on the local economy have improved, with 48% of respondents rating job opportunities as excellent or good, but personal financial situati...
A study published in PLOS Medicine found that immediate induction of labor does not significantly improve pregnancy outcomes for women with preterm prelabor rupture of membranes. Instead, expectant management is recommended to reduce the risk of maternal infection and neonatal sepsis.
Scientists have discovered strange half-mile-sized objects leaving glittering trails behind them as they punch through parts of Saturn's F ring. These 'mini-jets' fill in a missing link in our understanding of the curious behavior of the F ring, showing that smaller snowballs can survive and strike through the ring on their own.
The study found that overactivation of RANK signalling pathway promotes tumour stem cells, increasing tumour growth and metastasis in human breast epithelial cells. High levels of RANK protein are associated with poor prognosis tumours and basal type tumours.
A family life study reveals that transitional events such as school transition, relationship changes, and home moves can trigger eating disorders in young people. Participants reported feeling lonely, unsupported, and lacking emotional support during these transitions, leading to the development of conditions like anorexia and bulimia.
A Johns Hopkins study reveals wide variation in blood transfusion use during surgery, with frequent unnecessary transfusions. Researchers suggest that patients only need a transfusion if their hemoglobin levels fall below seven or eight grams per deciliter.
A study confirms that prostate cancer screening is widely ignored in men aged 75 or older, defying 2008 guidelines. Nearly half of men in this age group continue to receive screenings, highlighting the need for selective screening.
A new study by Dr. Chaim Bell at St. Michael's Hospital has revealed huge variations in the charges ophthalmologists impose on specialty lenses used in cataract surgery. Most surgeons charge less than the maximum recommended rate, while others charge significantly more, potentially representing predatory pricing.
Researchers found that anti-depressants have negative health effects on developmental problems in infants, sexual stimulation and function, digestive issues, and abnormal bleeding in elderly patients. The benefits of most anti-depressants compare poorly to the risks, including premature death in elderly patients.
A new project led by University of Michigan math professor Daniel Forger aims to understand how the brain's daily clock controls mood in humans and animals. The study uses mathematical modeling and experiments involving mice to examine the relationship between abnormal circadian rhythms and bipolar disorder.
Scientists have developed a new imaging method that combines PET and CT scanning to identify patients at high risk of a heart attack. The technique, which targets active calcification in coronary arteries, shows promise in improving heart attack prediction and reducing mortality rates.
GW researchers are evaluating innovative methods to assess the immune response to vaccines with a novel Toll-like Receptor (TLR)-4 agonist adjuvant. They will use new antibody profiling techniques to determine the quality of the humoral immune response in humans.
Economists create new framework for examining developing economies by analyzing Thai villages. Preliminary findings show highly integrated capital markets across villages, with households relying on informal borrowing and gifts to finance opportunities.
Researchers at UCSD School of Medicine identified G protein-coupled receptors as potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets for chronic lymphocytic leukemia. The expression of specific GPCRs, such as VIPR1, is linked to disease stage and prognosis.
Community health plans have broken down silos of care to coordinate among providers and directly engage with patients, leading to successful transitions. The Avalere report highlights five practices that facilitate care transition programs, including using data to tailor programs to patients' needs.
Detailed studies reveal an unusual bilayer lamellar structure in a top-performing organic photovoltaic material. This structure may contribute to the material's superior performance, offering clues for guiding the synthesis of new materials.
The new Iowa River bridge features over 100 gauges that take 100 readings a second, providing quantitative information on the bridge's performance and condition. The system also monitors security and surveillance video, with data displayed in real-time on a website.
A team of scientists proposes that early four-legged creatures used dermal bones to neutralize acid buildup from breathing carbon dioxide on land. The bones, featuring complex ridges and furrows, may have helped these ancient animals buy more time on land by storing antacids.
Two studies found that severe fibrosis increases the risk of developing atherosclerosis at an earlier period. Fatty liver disease also increases risk, with GGT levels serving as a potential biomarker for early atherosclerosis.
A new study finds that bile plays a critical role in the development of Barrett's esophagus, a precursor to rare and deadly esophageal cancer. Bile shuts off genes responsible for normal esophageal lining and turns on genes producing intestine-like tissue.
A kinesiology research team at UMass Amherst will investigate how heavy loads affect soldiers' survivability, injury likelihood, and mission performance. The study, funded by the Navy Health Research Center, will also have practical implications for firefighters and law enforcement officers.
The Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology (ARVO) has announced its 2012 ARVO Award recipients, honoring vision researchers who have made significant contributions to the field of ophthalmology. This year's award winners include Peter Sterling, John V. Forrester, Jeffrey L. Goldberg, and Josh Wallman, who will be recogniz...
A new paper recommends cost-effective policies and programs to prevent behavior problems and conditions contributing to poor health. The initiatives have been tested in high-income countries and shown to reduce smoking, drinking, and other substance use among adolescents.
The editors of PLOS Medicine argue that disclosure policies for financial conflicts of interest in medicine may actually exacerbate the problem of bias. Studies in social science suggest that overemphasis on disclosure can leave the root issue unaddressed.
Researchers at Ames Laboratory have designed a method to evaluate different conductors for use in metamaterial structures. The team evaluated various conducting materials, including graphene and high-temperature superconductors, but found that silver and gold remain the best conductors for use in metamaterials.
Researchers at Michigan Technological University discovered that adding graphene to titanium dioxide increases conductivity, bringing 52.4% more current into the circuit in dye-sensitized solar cells.
Researchers found aged mice showed disrupted sleep behavior and weakened brain network activity in the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN), a brain area responsible for setting sleep-wake cycles. Individual SCN cells also exhibited more severe changes, suggesting a new understanding of aging's effects on the brain.
New research reveals that primary cilia on cells in the retina and liver can form long-lasting contacts with each other, indicating a new role for cilia in cell communication. This discovery suggests that cilia may play a key role in human genetic diseases related to ciliary dysfunction.
Researchers at Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health found that text message reminders to parents increased the proportion of children and adolescents vaccinated against flu. The study, published in JAMA, showed a higher vaccination rate among those receiving text messages compared to traditional reminders.
The article discusses new research on dynamic earth processes, including the link between wildfires and sediment transport in coastal watersheds, as well as high-pressure metamorphism in northwest China. Additionally, studies on the Gold Hill shear zone and magma-filled fractures in the Appalachian mountain belt are also presented.
A study suggests that eating pistachios can increase beneficial bacteria in the gut, potentially supporting digestive health. Researchers found a stronger effect on gut microbiota composition in those who ate pistachios compared to almonds.
Researchers at Vetmeduni Vienna have shown that chronic myeloid leukaemia (CML) and B-cell acute lymphoid leukaemia (B-ALL) arise from the same long-term haematopoietic stem cells. Understanding this finding is crucial for developing targeted therapies, as current treatments may not effectively target cancer stem cells.
The study found that robot-assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP) resulted in superior outcomes compared to open radical prostatectomy (ORP), including reduced need for blood transfusions and complications during or after surgery. RARP patients were also less likely to have prolonged hospital stays.
A study found that CT exams increased among pediatric patients with non-traumatic abdominal pain in emergency departments from 1999 to 2007, while ultrasound use remained stable. This trend is concerning due to the potential risks of radiation exposure on children.
Researchers are investigating three popular wheat varieties to understand their drought tolerance mechanisms and how they can be improved. The study aims to identify key genetic regulators of drought tolerance, which is crucial for maintaining crop yields in dryland areas affected by drought.
A Stanford study suggests a potential treatment for stroke by increasing the generation of new nerve cells in the brain. The compound, LM22A-4, was administered three days after a stroke and showed faster recovery of athletic ability in mice. This approach may be a more accessible alternative to stem-cell therapy.
A new study links malaria resurgence to funding cuts, with 91% of episodes tied to weakened control programs. The research highlights the need for sustained financial support to maintain gains in malaria control.
Researchers at Linköping University have discovered that homing molecules can render toxic prions harmless, decreasing their toxicity and infectibility. This breakthrough could lead to the treatment of diseases such as Alzheimer's, which is caused by amyloid plaque with a similar but slower course.
The Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC) is investing £4 million in nine new crop science projects to improve UK cereal crops, including oilseed rape, barley, and wheat. The projects aim to address bottlenecks in food production, reduce waste, and deliver cost savings.
Researchers found that antidepressant Zoloft accumulates in yeast cells, inducing autophagy and causing membrane distortions. This response supports the idea that depression may be linked to diminished BDNF secretions and suggests alternative targets for next-generation antidepressants.
A new validated method enables accurate analysis of flavanol stereochemistry in cocoa, providing crucial insights into its cardiovascular health impact. This breakthrough addresses important gaps in knowledge and has implications for future research and development.
A new study reveals that outpatient surgery patients are at risk for blood clots due to multiple factors such as age, surgery length, and type of procedure. The study suggests a need for better screening and prevention strategies in the growing outpatient surgery population.
The Lancet series highlights the major challenges facing adolescents today, including disparities in access to resources and services. Sexually transmitted infections with protracted courses are of particular concern, exacerbated by poverty and social inequalities in countries of all incomes.
The largest generation of adolescents worldwide faces significant health risks, including high rates of tobacco and alcohol use, obesity, and physical inactivity. The study highlights the need for better coordination across UN agencies and countries to produce regular reports on adolescent health.
Researchers at Linköping University have identified 20 molecular interactions in voltage sensors that lead to pore opening, shedding light on a key mechanism. The study's findings are crucial for developing new medicines targeting electrical excitability disorders.
A Rhode Island Hospital psychiatrist argues that lowering diagnostic threshold for bipolar disorder will lead to more false positives than true positives, resulting in inaccurate diagnoses and treatments. This could have severe consequences for patients, including increased use of unnecessary medications.
A study of nearly 20,000 cases of routine appendicitis at 289 hospitals and medical centers in California found significant discrepancies in hospital charges, ranging from $1,529 to $183,000. The median charge was $33,611, with county hospital charges being 37% lower than nonprofit hospital charges.
Researchers found that women's hearts showed no increase in blood flow during mental stress, unlike men, who experienced an increase. This difference could predispose women to heart problems under stress.
Researchers found that chronic cocaine users lost about 3.08 ml brain volume per year, almost twice the rate of healthy volunteers. The accelerated age-related decline was most prominent in the prefrontal and temporal cortex, important regions associated with attention, decision-making, and self-regulation as well as memory.
Researchers investigated omega-3 supplements' effects on cardiac diastolic function, finding no improvement in older adults. The study suggests that omega-3's benefits may fall on other aspects of cardiovascular function.
A family history of liver cancer is associated with a 70-fold increased risk of developing hepatocellular carcinoma, independent of hepatitis B or C markers. Monitoring individuals with family history and hepatitis markers may help identify HCC at an earlier stage.
A study by Long Island University researchers found that carvacrol, an oregano constituent, induces apoptosis in prostate cancer cells. This compound may represent a promising anti-cancer agent with reduced risk of severe side effects due to its common use as food seasoning.
Researchers from Durham University found that the probability of fractures extending beyond 0.6 kilometers is exceptionally low, with only one per cent risk beyond 350 meters. This analysis has implications for setting minimum distance requirements for fracking operations to prevent contamination of groundwater.
Research from NASA-funded scientists uses data from Cassini and Huygens spacecraft to estimate how long Titan's methane factory has been operating, with estimated ages ranging from 10 million to 1.6 billion years. The study provides new perspectives on the history of Titan's atmosphere.
A recent study published in the Journal of Women's Health found that a soy-based S-equol supplement reduced hot flash frequency by 3.09-3.66 daily and muscle/joint pain significantly compared to a standard soy isoflavone supplement. The study involved 102 US postmenopausal women who experienced high hot flash frequencies.
The Large Synoptic Survey Telescope (LSST) camera has received 'Critical Decision 1' approval, moving forward with detailed engineering design and construction. The LSST will capture the widest, fastest, and deepest view of the night sky, aiding studies of dark energy, near-Earth asteroids, and the structure of our galaxy.
Researchers at the University of Illinois Chicago are developing a community-based weight loss program for African American breast cancer survivors. The program aims to improve diet and physical activity habits, as well as reduce body mass index and weight-related health risks.