Researchers at Bascom Palmer Eye Institute have developed a novel gene therapy to treat Leber Hereditary Optic Neuropathy (LHON), an inherited genetic defect that causes rapid vision loss. The treatment successfully replaces mutated genes with healthy ones, restoring visual function in experimental models.
Researchers found Bartonella infection in 62% of patients with conditions like arthritis, chronic fatigue, and Lyme disease. The study suggests a possible link between Bartonella bacterium and rheumatoid illnesses in humans.
Researchers developed nano-devices that successfully crossed the blood-brain barrier and delivered a drug to tame brain-damaging inflammation in rabbits with cerebral palsy. The treatment improved motor skills and reduced neuro-inflammation, holding promise for treating a range of neurologic disorders.
Researchers found that mice with intestinal bacteria from obese animals gained more weight and became more obese when fed a high-fat diet. The study suggests that specific gut microbiota profiles may promote excess weight gain and influence food intake. The findings offer hope for developing new strategies to prevent and treat obesity.
A study predicts that climate change and biofuel mandates will increase corn price volatility by 50% by 2040, exacerbating the impact of extreme heat events on corn yields. The federal mandate for biofuel production could lead to higher prices for livestock producers and consumers.
Researchers at the University of Delaware have identified a protein called endoglin that regulates the creation of fat cells. By decreasing the amount of this protein on the surface of cells, it may be possible to force fat cells to transform into other cell types, potentially leading to new treatments for osteoporosis and obesity.
A recent study by Maggie Louie reveals that prolonged exposure to cadmium can cause breast cancer cells to become more aggressive and develop malignant characteristics. The researchers found that even small concentrations of cadmium at chronic exposures can contribute to the progression of breast cancer.
Scientists at Lund University have identified a new stem cell type in the adult brain that can form various cell types, including neuronal cells. The discovery holds promise for treating neurodegenerative diseases and stroke by harnessing the stem cell's repair mechanisms.
A study revealed that ancient viruses, which infected ancestors as far back as the age of dinosaurs, became widespread in mammals' genomes due to a loss of cell infectivity. This led to a dramatic increase in viral genetic material, resembling the spread of 'superspreaders' during epidemic outbreaks.
A team led by Dr. Rachel Morgan-Kiss sampled Lake Bonney's ice-covered waters to study the single-celled organisms that inhabit it. These microbes play a crucial role in global climate change, with their mixotrophic metabolism influencing carbon cycling.
A new study reveals how climate change affects permafrost conditions across northern Canada, with varying factors influencing the thawing process. The research highlights the need for Canadians to adapt their northern infrastructure to accommodate changing ground temperatures.
A new study at the University of Gothenburg found that laparoscopic procedures reduce the risk of small-bowel obstructions by up to four times compared to open surgery. The study, published in Archives of Surgery, analyzed 108,141 operations and showed that surgical technique is a key factor in adhesive small-bowel obstruction.
Bedwetting in children aged five years or older is common due to excessive urine production, overactive bladder, and inability to wake up. Treatment options include lifestyle modifications, medication, and bed alarms, with the latter showing long-term success in reducing nighttime water production.
Research reveals that great tit populations from central and North Europe have distinct gene activity responses to long days, influenced by latitude. This difference affects their reproductive cycles and ability to adapt to climate change.
A Mayo Clinic expert and pediatrician refute three immunity-related misconceptions about vaccines, citing a recent review of 1,200 articles that found no autoimmune side effects. The experts also emphasize the risk of illness and death from under-vaccination, including whooping cough and measles.
Global measles mortality decreased by 74% from 535,300 deaths in 2000 to 139,300 in 2010. Despite this progress, India and Africa remain major concerns due to low vaccine coverage. The authors suggest intensified control measures are needed to achieve mortality reduction targets.
Researchers found that ammonoids' initial strategy of producing many offspring led to their rapid proliferation after mass extinctions. However, this same strategy may have contributed to their demise at the end of the Cretaceous period.
Recent studies suggest that prolonged administration of human immunoglobulin can attenuate Alzheimer's disease-type cognitive dysfunction while promoting synaptic plasticity. This experimental observation provides a rational basis for rectifying inconsistent study outcomes in Alzheimer's disease clinical trials with IVIG.
Researchers found vitamin D can stimulate bone cells to remove calcium from bones, potentially leading to density loss and increased fracture risk. This discovery may explain conflicting results of clinical trials examining the effects of vitamin D supplements on preventing fractures in elderly patients.
A new study reveals that both amyloid-beta plaque deposits and elevated levels of the altered protein p-tau are required for clinical decline in Alzheimer's disease. The presence of both is associated with significant clinical decline over three years, highlighting p-tau as a potential target for new therapies.
Canadian provinces should adopt patient charters with independent enforcement to help patients resolve concerns and complaints easily and cost-effectively. A well-designed charter can improve the quality and timeliness of care, increase accountability and reduce costly litigation.
A Canadian study found opioids significantly improved the quality of life and relief from shortness of breath for advanced COPD patients. However, physicians were hesitant due to lack of guidance, fear of respiratory suppression, and concerns about censure. Innovative educational initiatives may help bridge this gap in care.
A recent Vaccine Safety Datalink study found the shingles vaccine to be generally safe and well-tolerated in adults aged 50 and older, with a small increased risk of local reactions. The study also ruled out any increased risk for serious conditions such as cerebrovascular diseases or meningitis.
Researchers have created a new instrument, the Bergen Work Addiction Scale, to measure work addiction. The scale assesses seven core elements of addiction and can differentiate between workaholics and non-workaholics.
Researchers describe a novel mechanism of HIV-1 spread by dendritic cells, using a molecule called GM3 for attachment and spread. This unique contact between HIV-1 and dendritic cells may offer a new direction for anti-viral therapies, as drugs targeting this interaction could have the benefit of acting on the host.
Salmonella causes food poisoning, killing around 400,000 people worldwide every year. Researchers have discovered multiple gene switches that control the bacteria's weapon systems, offering new ways to curb human infection. The discovery could lead to the development of antibiotics to reduce disease caused by Salmonella.
Researcher Carlos Martino explores how fluctuations in static and radiofrequency magnetic fields impact biochemical reactions. His work shows that low-level fields can inhibit tumor growth and modulate cellular proliferation, offering potential for a therapy based on weak radiofrequency fields.
A new analysis found that Hispanic lung cancer patients have a 15% lower risk of dying compared to white patients, with black patients slightly more likely to die. The study also identified higher frequencies of less serious lung cancer types in Hispanics, which may be linked to genetic or environmental factors.
Silicosis, a preventable lung disease caused by silica inhalation, remains a significant occupational health concern globally. Despite prevention efforts, cases continue to rise in developing countries, highlighting the need for improved workplace safety and regular medical assessments.
Global cardiovascular disease leaders urge the world to adopt a 25% reduction target for premature NCD mortality by 2025. The Taskforce, comprising leading CVD organizations, aims to reduce the global burden of CVD and address its impact on families and economies.
Researchers found that gamma and delta-tocopherols in vegetable oils prevent cancer formation and growth in animal models. Alpha-tocopherol supplements, however, showed no such benefit in preventing these types of cancer.
Researchers found that acupuncture can reverse decreases in muscle mass and mRNA expression levels of muscle-specific atrophic genes. The study holds promise for improving mobility through muscle rejuvenation in the elderly and medical patients.
The introduction of rotavirus vaccines in developing countries is projected to save more than 2.4 million lives by 2030, with significant reductions in hospitalizations and clinical visits. Rotavirus vaccines are highly cost-effective, reducing child deaths by up to 95% in GAVI-eligible countries.
Two distinguishable gene groups have been detected: one producing abundant biochemical products and functioning properly in most biological processes, and another with potentially abnormal function in diseases. The findings have significant implications for tailoring therapy to individual patients
A recent study found that 91% of documented malaria resurgence events were attributed to weakened control programs, highlighting the need for sustained funding. The researchers emphasize the importance of continued investment in successful malaria control and elimination programs to maintain progress and save thousands of lives.
Researchers found that people attribute human characteristics and moral accountability to humanoid robots that can harm humans, even in non-life-threatening situations. This suggests that as robots become more sophisticated, they may be held responsible for causing harm.
The Association for Psychological Science and SAGE have launched a new peer-reviewed journal, Clinical Psychological Science, which aims to publish advances in clinical science and provide a platform for innovative research. The journal welcomes diverse topics, including translational articles, novel interventions, and theory-driven re...
A study found high levels of TRAIL protein in human milk, which may contribute to its anticancer properties. Researchers detected 400- and 100-fold higher levels of TRAIL in colostrum and mature breast milk than in blood.
Researchers at Carnegie Mellon University have discovered how dendritic cells exchange information during their coordinated assault on invading pathogens. The team used a new pH-biosensor to visualize the mechanism behind antigen transfer in the immune system, revealing an active endocytic process.
Fiber intake among the global population is extremely low, posing serious long-term public health implications. New research supports the role of soluble corn fiber in enhancing calcium absorption in adolescents, promoting gut fermentation, and improving digestion, while also addressing challenges related to bloating and tolerance.
A new method developed by the University of Copenhagen allows researchers to track mammal species in Southeast Asian rainforests using DNA-analysis from collected leeches. The technique has been successfully tested on local Vietnamese mammals, including rare species, and could revolutionize the monitoring of threatened wildlife.
A team of scientists, led by WSU astrobiologist Dirk Schulze-Makuch, is calling for a Mars mission with a strong life detection component. The BOLD mission would feature six probes that could detect signs of life in Martian soil through various experiments.
Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine have discovered a novel target for treating stress-linked disorders: a protein called HDAC6. By modulating glucocorticoid signaling in serotonin neurons, HDAC6 may provide a path towards resilience to stress.
Researchers found that a high-saturated-fat, high-cholesterol diet elevated microglial activation and reduced neuronal development in middle-aged laboratory rats. However, treatment with IL-1Ra alleviated these effects, suggesting potential use in neurological disorders involving neuroinflammation.
A study analyzing individual data from prospective studies suggests that subclinical hyperthyroidism is associated with an increased risk of total mortality, CHD death, and incident atrial fibrillation. The risk is highest when thyrotropin levels are below 0.10 mIU/L.
A recent review of scientific literature found benefits to children who had frequent family meals, including increased fruit and vegetable intake, and lower consumption of unhealthy foods. The study suggests that families who eat together regularly may be at a lower risk of obesity and poor nutritional status.
A study found a potential link between alcohol consumption and breast cancer, suggesting that the protein CYP2E1 plays a direct role in explaining the long-established risk factor. Women who naturally express higher levels of CYP2E1 and consume alcohol may be at a greater risk for developing breast cancer.
Researchers propose a new classification of severe early childhood caries, which affects mostly young children living at or below poverty levels. The condition is characterized by structurally damaged primary teeth and is linked to developmental dental defects such as enamel hypoplasia.
Researchers at Michigan State University have found a way for plants to balance their growth and defense mechanisms, enabling them to continue growing while protecting themselves from harm. This discovery could help improve crop yields by allowing plants to prioritize growth over defense.
Researchers identified 56 genetic regions controlling bone density and found 14 variants increasing fracture risk in women. The study, involving 80,000 participants, reveals a significant link between genetic variations and osteoporosis.
Researchers found a significant relationship between decreased CSF αβ 1-42 and clinical decline in participants with elevated CSF p-tau 181p, suggesting p-tau as an important marker of AD-associated degeneration. The study suggests that targeting tau may be crucial for therapy development.
The article suggests that preventative measures are most effective in managing bark beetles, which can be controlled naturally by environmental factors. Maintaining a diversity of healthy tree species and adequate spacing between host trees reduces the likelihood of beetle outbreaks.
A North Carolina State University study reveals that over one-third of restaurant servers admit to discriminating against African-American customers, with many perceiving black patrons as impolite or poor tippers. The survey found that 38.5% of servers reported varying their service based on customers' race, highlighting the persistenc...
A new study found that broad generalizations about social groups can undermine both boys' and girls' performance on challenging activities. Researchers tested how sweeping pronouncements about skills or likely success of social groups influence children's performance.
Researchers discovered that TopBP1 is crucial for preventing DNA damage early in brain formation and may act as a tumor suppressor. The study found that cells in the developing brain require TopBP1 to prevent DNA strands from breaking during cell division.
A study of Swedish boxers found elevated protein levels in brain fluid after bouts, indicating nerve cell damage. The study suggests that Olympic boxing may cause similar brain injury to Alzheimer's disease.
A study published in Archives of Internal Medicine found that treatment with levothyroxine reduced ischemic heart disease events and mortality in younger patients with subclinical hypothyroidism. However, the findings were not evident in older patients, highlighting the need for further research to confirm these results.
A computer model assesses ecological impacts and compares effectiveness of strategies to reduce biological diversity risks. The study shows that preserving fallow land and field margins can buffer unintended side-effects and prevent external costs.
A recent shortage of prescription generic drugs in Canada has highlighted the issue for two years, with up to 98% of pharmacists experiencing shortages during working shifts. The problem is exacerbated by the affordability issues faced by 10% of Canadians who rely on these medications.
Researchers are investigating the factors predicting senior executive turnover in federal workplaces, which can result in costly losses for organizations. The study focuses on the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs' Senior Executive Service, finding that turnover is highest among new or low-tenure executives.