A new study published in Gastroenterology suggests that the immune system protein NFATc3 plays a significant role in the development of acute pancreatitis. The researchers found links between NFAT and trypsinogen activation, neutrophil recruitment, and tissue damage in mice.
A new treatment has been developed to help prevent asthma attacks in asthmatics by boosting their immune systems. The study found that a simple inhalation of an immune system protein molecule can significantly reduce worsening asthma symptoms and the need to use an asthma inhaler.
Researchers found that fewer adolescents started smoking after exposure to prevention programs and more quit if they began. Funding cuts negatively impacted these numbers, but state spending on prevention has increased, suggesting a potential reversal of behavior trends.
A study found that people drove more after 9/11, with increases strongly associated with greater driving opportunity. This suggests that fear alone may not be enough to change behavior, and environmental factors play a crucial role in shaping our actions.
Fiji, an open-source platform, has become a de facto standard for biomedical-image processing, offering improved precision and accessibility. The platform, created by researchers, allows application sharing and plug-in development, driving collaboration and innovation.
Researchers at NC State have developed a new, less expensive nanolithography technique that uses cantilevers and spheres to create patterns at the nanoscale. This technique has potential applications in biological sensors and tissue regeneration efforts.
The International Osteoporosis Foundation has published new guidelines to help doctors assess treatment efficacy in patients who experience a fracture while on medication for osteoporosis. The guidelines outline a checklist of pragmatic criteria that can be used to define treatment failure and take appropriate action.
A University of Missouri scientist suggests that earthquake hazard maps often fail due to bad assumptions, data, physics, and luck. Developing better maps and alerting people to their limitations could potentially save lives and money in areas prone to earthquakes.
Researchers found no loin quality advantages from blast chilling, but a 13-fold increase in excessively tough samples. CO2 stunning resulted in better meat quality traits, including darker lean color and greater water-holding capacity.
The University of Missouri's Coulter Translational Partnership Program has awarded funding to five teams of physicians and engineers to improve healthcare. The program aims to turn laboratory discoveries into new products and services for patients, leveraging MU's substantial resources for biomedical innovation.
Researchers have achieved two significant 'firsts' in studying the human cardiac protein alpha-tropomyosin, which controls heart contraction on every beat. By direct imaging, they found individual molecules to be roughly 40 nanometers long and demonstrated their flexibility, establishing a baseline for normal protein function.
A study of 240 children found that those with higher levels of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) were more likely to report wheeze, a common symptom of asthma. Non-atopic asthma was also linked to PCB exposure in the study.
A study led by BUSM researchers has found that the compound Gly-His-Lys (GHK) may halt the progression of emphysema and reverse some of its damage. The study demonstrates potential impact of genomic technologies in identifying new treatments for diseases using existing drugs and compounds.
Researchers at MIT's Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence Laboratory presented a new system called Pyxis that automatically streamlines website database access patterns. This results in significant speedups of up to three times and reduced bandwidth usage. Pyxis works with languages already favored by web developers, such as Java.
A nationwide survey of food policy councils reveals that many are focusing on procurement and access, but face barriers such as lack of time and funding. The study, funded by the Johns Hopkins Center for a Livable Future, highlights key findings on the role of food policy councils in improving local food systems.
Researchers at University of Bristol found that participants drank more slowly from curved 'beer flute' glasses than straight-sided glass containing lager, suggesting curved glasses compromise ability to gauge liquid levels and pace drinking. This could have positive impact on reducing intoxication and excessive drinking.
A study published in Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers & Prevention establishes the association of IL-16 with prostate cancer in men of both African and European descent. Researchers found new polymorphisms in the gene unique to African Americans that confer risk, providing a potential biomarker for prostate cancer.
Scientists study Mercury's surface chemistry and geological history, finding distinctive mineral patterns dominated by magnesium and sulfur. Meanwhile, researchers in Bermuda investigate the origin of red soils, discovering that African dust may be a key factor in their formation.
Researchers at Cleveland Clinic's Lerner Research Institute and Anesthesiology Institute have discovered a potential new treatment for Alzheimer's disease. The compound MDA7 has been shown to induce beneficial immune responses that limit the development of the disease, restoring cognition, memory, and synaptic plasticity in animal models.
Researchers found that blood glucose tracking apps can pose challenges for older adults due to declining vision, memory, and motor skills. The apps' design problems include small text, poor color contrast, and font sizes that decrease when text exceeds one line.
A team of engineers at Stanford University has demonstrated the feasibility of a super-small, implantable cardiac device that gets its power from radio waves transmitted from outside the body. The device is contained in a cube just eight-tenths of a millimeter in radius and can receive up to 50 microwatts of power.
A targeted educational approach teaches young patients to remain motionless during MRI scans, making the process safer for children with sickle cell disease. The study found that children who completed a brief preparation program were eight times more likely to undergo successful MRI tests without sedation.
Researchers will develop methods to design origami structures that actively fold and unfold in response to multiple fields, guided by predictive multi-scale modeling and multi-physics simulations. The four-year project will also integrate summer student exchange programs and capstone design projects for K-12 students.
Researchers at Aarhus University have solved the long-standing puzzle of haemoglobin structure using high-resolution three-dimensional mapping. This discovery provides essential information on how haptoglobin captures and neutralizes toxic haemoglobin, which can cause kidney damage in diseases like malaria.
A study by BUSM researchers reveals that approximately 90 percent of knees with no signs of osteoarthritis using X-ray showed clear signs of osteoarthritis using MRI. The findings suggest that MRI is not a useful diagnostic test for knee pain in this age group.
Research from the University of Cambridge suggests that a traumatic upbringing during childhood is linked to impulsive and compulsive personality traits, increasing the risk of drug dependence. The study examined 50 adults with cocaine dependence and their biological siblings, finding a direct relationship between traumatic childhoods ...
Research by VIB/KU Leuven scientists identifies HUWE1 as the culprit behind intellectual disability in some patients, a condition affecting approximately 15% of cases. The study's findings open up possibilities for detecting and treating X-linked intellectual disabilities through targeted tests and further research.
Researchers at the University of Leicester have gained access to the UK's first Exhalyzer-D, a cutting-edge device that enables non-invasive testing for children with respiratory issues. The device allows for more accurate measurements and information about lung function.
A Penn State-led project in the Gulf of Mexico has been recognized for its diverse partnerships and groundbreaking discoveries, including new coral communities and marine archaeological finds. The research aims to protect deep-water corals and other hard-bottom communities in the northern Gulf of Mexico.
Researchers found that dark chocolate fans have a higher tolerance to bitter tastes than milk chocolate fans. The study used rejection thresholds to test food acceptability and could lead to cost-savings for the industry by identifying product rejection levels.
NASA's TRMM satellite spotted hot towers around Ileana's center, indicating a strong increase to hurricane status. The storm strengthened into a Category 2 hurricane with sustained winds of 80 mph within 24 hours.
A new psychology study from the University of Texas at Austin found that reliance on supernatural explanations for major life events increases with age. People of all ages tend to endorse biological explanations for certain events but also frequently support supernatural explanations, especially among children and adults.
Researchers discovered that FAM123A interacts with microtubule-associated proteins regulating cell movement. This interaction is crucial for normal development and life, as well as disease prevention.
Duke University researchers have characterized metal's ability in devices that enhance light by measuring unique properties of light on a single atom scale. The findings provide a roadmap for precisely controlling light scattering, enabling the development of medical sensors and integrated photonic communications components.
Researchers investigated six models for community health center access to subspecialty care, finding that integrated systems offer the best comprehensive access. Community health centers can hire subspecialists or partner with hospitals to provide better care.
Tropical Storm Kirk intensified into a hurricane on Aug. 30, becoming the fifth of the season, while Tropical Depression 12 formed in the central Atlantic Ocean. TD12 is expected to strengthen over warm waters and potentially become a hurricane by Sept. 2.
Researchers have genetically engineered a type of house plant to be long-lived and produce flowers without pollen. The modified plants also exhibit improved growth characteristics, such as increased branching and leaf density. This breakthrough is great news for gardeners who want to enjoy their plants for longer periods.
Research suggests cancer produces negative immune response in dendritic cells, hindering desired responses. Flawed dendritic cells could aid in preventing autoimmune disorders, however.
The Denisovan genome was completely sequenced, revealing its genetic connections to modern humans and Neandertals. The study found that the Denisovans shared more genes with populations from southeastern Asia than with those in other parts of Asia.
Scientists characterized a unique spring mechanism in cucumber plant tendrils, where they coil further upon pulling the ends, unlike traditional coils. The discovery led to the creation of a new type of twistless spring with high bending stiffness and twisting stiffness.
Researchers have identified a key genetic mechanism in plant hormone signaling that helps plants balance between drought resistance and growth. The discovery may lead to new methods to help plants thrive in tough conditions and reduce crop losses from stress.
A new study published in the American Journal of Transplantation found that state tax incentives for living organ donors did not increase donation rates. Despite these policies, there remain significant shortages in available organs for transplant, highlighting the need for further measures to address this issue.
Underground organisms like arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi play a dual role in soil carbon sequestration, both storing and releasing carbon as atmospheric carbon levels rise. The study challenges assumptions about their protective effects on organic carbon.
Researchers at University of Copenhagen develop a novel DNA monitoring approach that can track fish and whales in seawater, revealing local faunas. The method proves as good as or better than existing methods, with great perspectives for monitoring marine fish biodiversity and estimating fish stocks.
Scientists have found that a type of ocean microbe, Nitrosopumilus maritimus, produces methylphosphonic acid, which is a key component in the production of ocean methane. This discovery helps explain the 'methane paradox' and has implications for climate change modeling.
Weill Cornell Medical College has received $1.8 million in grants to support translational research for blood cancers, focusing on leukemia, AML, multiple myeloma, and long-term therapy effects. Researchers will investigate novel therapies and genomic diversity to develop targeted treatments.
Researchers discovered how nonspecific binding plays a critical role in controlling the switch between dormant and virulent states in bacteria. The study used single-molecule techniques to characterize the role of non-specific binding in facilitating the closure of a DNA loop that switches off virulence.
Stable isotopes are used to establish the origin of substances, track dynamic processes, and solve environmental mysteries. Researchers will discuss various applications, including water analysis, ecological systems, and global element cycles.
A nationwide study found inconsistent standards for medical exemptions from kindergarten immunization requirements across states. The research suggests that granting more accountability to parents and physicians may ensure valid medical exemptions are used appropriately.
A new study by Northwestern University found that most Americans feel empowered and enthusiastic about the high volume of information available, rather than feeling overwhelmed.
A study found that even in the normal range, urinary protein excretion increases diabetics' heart risks. Patients may benefit from cardioprotective medications to mitigate this risk.
A study published in Genome Medicine identified genes whose activity is altered with increasing lung damage. The compound Gly-His-Lys (GHK) was found to affect the activity of these genes and restore normal gene activity, repairing cell function in human cells from lungs damaged by emphysema.
A new flexible electronics technology developed by Wayne State University's Yong Xu has opened up possibilities for health care and medical applications of electronic devices. The technology is compatible with mainstream CMOS processes, allowing for the creation of high-performance and high-density CMOS circuits on flexible substrates.
Researchers will develop new tools to monitor and understand performance for diverse applications on HPC systems. The goal is to improve the ability to track resources and increase productivity among stakeholders.
Studies on California and deer mice reveal that lifetime monogamy leads to reduced bacterial diversity and a less diverse gene pool for immunity, whereas promiscuity correlates with increased bacterial diversity and genetic variation. This suggests that social behavior influences immune system function.
A recent study published in the Journal of Dental Research estimates that approximately 47.2% of US adults have periodontitis, with higher rates among males, Mexican Americans, and those with lower education levels. The study also found significant disparities in periodontal disease prevalence across different age groups.
A study found that pregnant women exposed to high levels of common household chemicals PFCs had babies that were smaller at birth and heavier by 20 months, potentially leading to obesity later in life. The research suggests a link between prenatal exposure to PFCs and increased risk of weight gain in childhood.
Leaders' expressions of anger, contempt, and disgust in speeches may predict violent acts. Analysis found a significant increase in these emotions before aggression, while decreases were seen before nonviolent resistance. The findings suggest a leader's emotional tone can motivate their group to take part in violent actions.
Biologists at Caltech created a computational model of gene networks that control the development of sea-urchin embryos. The model accurately reproduces experiments and allows for virtual experiments, revealing unprecedented detail about gene regulatory networks.
Hyenas' scent glands harbor diverse microbial communities that produce unique chemical signatures, enabling clan recognition and social behavior. This symbiotic relationship highlights the importance of microbes in animal behavior, with future studies planned to explore their role further.