A new project has been awarded £4 million to develop a 'click' technique for DNA and RNA assembly, which could make biotechnology research cheaper and more efficient. The technique enables the production of useful DNA structures on a larger scale than current enzyme-based technologies.
A new study found that overweight and obese adults with chronic kidney disease who attempt to lose weight through diets and diet pills may cause further kidney damage. The study highlights the need for safe weight loss strategies that protect kidney function.
Researchers at MIT have developed a method to precisely control the width and composition of nanowires as they grow, enabling complex structures optimally designed for specific applications. This technique could facilitate new semiconductor devices with better functionality than conventional thin-film devices.
Researchers from UT Austin are part of a $3 million NSF Delta research collaboration to build comprehensive computer models for predicting river delta evolution. The project aims to understand how deltas respond to human activities and learn to direct delta evolution.
Log and lumber exports from Washington, Oregon, northern California, and Alaska increased by 42 percent in 2011, totaling 1,992 million board feet. The total value of exported logs increased by 54 percent to $1,297 million, while the total value of exported lumber increased by 35 percent to $687 million.
A Kaiser Permanente study found that computer-assisted decision tools in electronic health records substantially improve the identification and diagnosis of overweight and obesity among children and adolescents. The prevalence of childhood obesity has increased sharply, with at least 18 percent of 12- to 19-year-olds now considered obese.
Researchers discovered that reduced expression of OGFr accelerates tumorigenesis in human ovarian cancer. The OGF-OGFr axis plays a fundamental role in regulating cell proliferation.
Researchers have designed a new chemical compound that binds 1,000 times more effectively to the target protein in the brain than current drugs, reducing cell death by 40% in animal models. The compound also improves motor function and passes through the blood-brain barrier.
Researchers at Purdue University have discovered a protein mutation that disrupts the protective function of DJ-1, a key player in preventing neuronal death in Parkinson's disease. This finding may lead to new treatment strategies by targeting this error in the protein.
A study found that a strain of MRSA bacteria acquired resistance to antibiotics on farms and can now infect humans. The researchers sequenced the genomes of 88 different S. aureus isolates and found that the MRSA strain ST398 likely evolved from an antibiotic-sensitive human strain.
Women with a history of endometriosis are at a significantly higher risk of developing three specific types of ovarian cancer. The study found that endometriosis is linked to a more than threefold chance of developing clear-cell ovarian cancers and over double the risk of developing endometrioid tumours.
Stanford engineers developed a tiny, self-propelled medical device that can travel through the bloodstream using wireless power. The device has an antenna small enough to fit in the bloodstream and can propel itself at speeds of over half-a-centimeter per second.
A recent study published in Biological Psychiatry found that depression is associated with shorter telomeres and a low cortisol state, suggesting that stress plays an important role in depression. The study's findings have implications for understanding the aging process and developing treatment strategies.
A team of researchers from Carnegie Mellon University has identified the neural mechanisms behind selecting what to visually attend to. They found that different regions in the brain communicate through white matter connections, allowing individuals to filter out irrelevant information.
A new study found that foreign-born Hispanics living in the US are less likely to have a stroke than non-Hispanic whites, after accounting for socioeconomic factors. However, Hispanic Americans born in the US have similar stroke risk to non-Hispanic whites.
Researchers have developed a theory of moral self that may help explain ethical lapses in the banking and mortgage-lending industries. Individuals with high moral identity scores were more likely to behave morally, while those with low scores were less likely to do so.
A study by UCSF researchers found that anticipating stressful situations accelerates cellular aging, leading to shorter telomeres and increased risk for chronic diseases. Caregivers who anticipated more threat showed signs of accelerated cellular aging.
Researchers at the University of Illinois have discovered two distinct groups of Sulfolobus islandicus, a heat-loving organism, that are already separate species despite sharing the same habitat. The microbes exhibited slight genetic differences and decreasing gene exchange between the two groups, indicating sympatric speciation.
A recent study by researchers at St. Michael's Hospital reviewed over 40 published studies on fructose and its link to obesity. The findings suggest that it may not be the fructose molecule itself causing weight gain, but rather consuming too many calories from any food source.
New studies by a Yale team reveal that interfering with the adolescent brain's defensive reaction to cocaine increases sensitivity to the drug. This finding may help explain why risk of drug abuse and addiction peaks during teenage years.
Researchers warn that Ireland's indigenous small mammals, such as the wood mouse and pygmy shrew, will die out in up to 80% of their available habitat due to the introduction of foreign species. The study found that invasive species have already led to a significant decline in native species populations.
A recent study led by TGen found that a strain of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) originated in humans before spreading to food animals and becoming resistant to antibiotics. The study used whole genome sequencing to trace the history of MRSA CC398, a strain often referred to as 'pig-MRSA'.
Researchers at the University of Warwick discovered that cancer-causing genetic mutations exhibit distinct electronic properties, making them harder to detect. These mutations can be compared to stealth technology used in radar systems, which allows them to go undetected by the body's defense mechanisms.
Researchers compared 50 antimalarials against liver, sexual blood, and mosquito stages of human and nonhuman parasite species. The study provides a guide to help researchers identify promising antimalarial drugs for future treatments.
Researchers from UNH's Space Science Center launched a NASA rocket into the Aurora to measure electric and magnetic fields in Earth's upper atmosphere. The mission aims to shed light on the physical processes that create the northern lights and understand how energy from the sun accelerates aurora production.
A team of researchers from MIT has detected tellurium, a rare Earth element, for the first time in three ancient stars. The finding supports the theory that tellurium and other heavy elements likely originated from a rare type of supernova during nuclear fusion.
Researchers are studying specially bred mice to better understand flu outbreaks and develop safer vaccines. The mice's varying immune response to the flu helps identify genetic factors influencing disease severity.
A novel oral bacterium, Streptococcus tigurinu, has been linked to serious diseases like heart disease and meningitis. Its identification allows scientists to understand the risk it poses and develop effective treatments.
A national evidence-based paradigm for faith-based advocacy to prevent childhood obesity has been developed. The link between advocacy and policy is crucial in promoting healthy lifestyles and routine physical activity among children. The article highlights the importance of faith-based organizations in this campaign.
A majority of college students (64%) are willing to donate blood or genetic material for scientific research. Education plays a role in acceptance, with seniors being more familiar with biobanks and comfortable with the concept.
LA BioMed investigators are making significant strides in cardiovascular medicine, with a focus on early detection of heart disease and treatment of pulmonary hypertension. Drs. Matthew Budoff and Ronald Oudiz are leading efforts to develop new therapies and improve symptoms for patients with these conditions.
A study from Massachusetts General Hospital found that C-peptide production persists for decades after Type 1 diabetes onset, and beta cell functioning remains intact at low levels. The novel ultrasensitive assay detected C-peptide in 34 of 54 blood samples, suggesting a longer window for therapeutic intervention.
Researchers found that airborne gases get sucked into stubborn smog particles and cannot escape, leading to underestimation of organic aerosols in computer models. This finding has significant implications for understanding the effects of air pollution on public health and climate change.
A recent study found that young people in England do not possess the necessary knowledge to adhere to government guidelines for responsible alcohol consumption. The researchers examined students' knowledge and beliefs about safe drinking habits and found that most respondents had incorrect or inaccurate estimates of unit content.
Researchers have overturned a 'textbook' view of liver metabolism, revealing a backup pathway that governs glucose production. The discovery suggests new targets for diabetes drugs and may help bypass the block in insulin action that occurs in Type 2 diabetes.
A recent study published in Aggressive Behavior suggests that genetic risk factors condition the effects of corporal punishment on antisocial behavior, especially in male children. Additionally, research finds a link between life course persistent offenders and rape, implying a possible genetic origin for the latter.
MDC researchers have identified a crucial function of the c-Maf gene in the development of neurons responsible for mechanosensory function. In mice with deleted c-Maf, high-frequency vibrations are not detected, leading to impaired touch sensation and early-onset cataracts.
Weaver ants share a collective memory of rival ant odors, which helps them identify and compete with rivals. This collective memory gives the colony an edge in competition by priming all nest mates with information about rivals before they encounter them.
Researchers discovered that manipulating two biochemical signals regulating mitochondria in cells can shrink human lung cancers in mice. By boosting fusion signal or blocking fission, they reduced cell division and increased cell death.
Researchers develop a hybrid protein that blocks Xf infection, reducing reliance on chemicals in vineyards. Engineered grapevines produce the protein, which creates pores in the bacterium's membrane, killing it and preventing Pierce's disease symptoms.
A comprehensive study published in PLOS Medicine found that high blood homocysteine levels are not linked to an increased risk of developing coronary heart disease. The analysis of data from 19 unpublished and 86 published studies showed no significant effect on the risk of developing the condition.
A study found that a deadly staph 'superbug' has jumped from humans to food animals, becoming resistant to antibiotics due to routine use in farm animal production. The bacteria, MRSA CC398, thrives in crowded and unsanitary conditions.
The Duke team has created a nonlinear approach to energy harvesting that can capture more frequencies from ambient vibrations, making it ideal for practical uses in the real world. This could lead to the development of devices that power implants, sensors, and even larger electrical systems.
Researchers have discovered a new magnetic structure, skyrmions, which can be moved with significantly less current than traditional magnetic fields. This phenomenon has the potential to revolutionize data storage and processing by reducing energy consumption and increasing efficiency.
Researchers have discovered two distinct groups of Sulfolobus islandicus bacteria speciating in a hot spring habitat, despite shared genetic material and gene exchange. The study reveals that these groups are already separate species, with differences spanning only 0.35% across the entire chromosome.
Scientists have identified a promising maize hybrid that can produce ethanol from biomass, potentially reducing the need for fertilizers and creating a more sustainable feedstock. The hybrid combines beneficial traits of tropical and temperate maize, resulting in increased biomass production and ethanol output.
Researchers found that crown-of-thorns sea stars originate from local populations, rather than spreading across large distances via larval dispersal. Genetic analysis revealed significant genetic differences among reefs and habitats within the same island.
Researchers have uncovered a network of cisterns and reservoirs that fed the community's water supply in the ancient city of Xcoch, Mexico. The findings provide insights into the city's ability to adapt to drought and its significance as a religious site.
Researchers at the University of Rochester Medical Center have discovered that dorsal root ganglion neurons can create thick, healthy nerves without provoking an immune response. This breakthrough could lead to better treatment options for the over 350,000 patients with serious nerve injuries in the US each year.
Researchers at Newcastle University have engineered a microbial biofilm that significantly increases the electrical output of Microbial Fuel Cells. By selecting specific bacteria species, including Bacillus stratosphericus and Bacillus altitudinis, they doubled the electricity generation to 200 Watts per cubic meter.
A new study from Henry Ford Hospital found a strong correlation between brain dominance and the ear used for cell phone calls. Most left-brain thinkers tend to use their right hand to hold the phone up to their right ear, while most right-brain thinkers use their left hand to hold it in their left ear.
The Autism Treatment Network has released two new tool kits: Sleep Strategies for Children with Autism and Treating Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders. The guides provide families and dental professionals with effective strategies to improve sleep quality and oral health, respectively. By implementing these tools, families can cre...
Breastfeeding mothers may accumulate caffeine in their bodies and pass it to their babies, causing symptoms like wakefulness and irritability. A safe level of caffeine intake while breastfeeding is unclear, but experts recommend moderation.
Researchers identify differences in brain structure in infants who later develop autism spectrum disorders, including stronger white matter connections at 6 months. The study suggests a period of dramatic brain changes between 6-24 months may be critical for ASD diagnosis.
Scientists propose that the geologic activity occurred less than 50 million years ago, indicating a general state of global contraction. The graben systems found across the lunar surface suggest forces acting to pull it apart overrode contractional forces.
A study by geoscientists found that human pumping of groundwater poses a greater threat to coastal drinking water than climate change. Most coastal aquifers are relatively unaffected by rising sea levels, but human activity is causing concerns.
A University of Nevada, Reno economist found that employer-sponsored workers on temporary visas who acquire green cards increase their annual incomes by about $11,860. This is due to the six-year wait period for green card approval and employers' willingness to hold workers over 'a barrel,' limiting job opportunities and wage growth.
Experts have confirmed that UK road users are jamming GPS signals, with over 60 individual incidents recorded in one location. The phenomenon poses a significant threat to maritime navigation, with ships relying heavily on GPS for safe passage.
Scientists have tracked water from Bass Strait to the Indian Ocean using ocean gliders, revealing a 200-metre tall wall of water and discovering undiluted Bass Strait water hundreds of kilometres away. The study showcases the benefits of Australia's Integrated Marine Observing System.
A new study finds that minority toddlers with autism exhibit more delayed language, communication, and gross motor skills compared to Caucasian peers. The research highlights the need for culturally sensitive screening and assessment practices to ensure early detection and intervention.
The Office of Naval Research (ONR) has launched its TechSolutions program, a rapid-response science and technology initiative that addresses pressing warfighter needs. The program develops prototype technologies to support the day-to-day lives of sailors and Marines, providing innovative solutions to complex problems.
Scientists at Johns Hopkins Medicine discovered an energy sensor mechanism that helps regulate cell energy storage. The study found that a protein called AMPK, which acts like an energy thermostat, is affected by acetyl groups added to it.
Three University of New Hampshire faculty members have received prestigious Faculty Early Career Development (CAREER) Awards from the National Science Foundation. Yannis Korkolis will investigate microforming processes, while Wheeler Ruml will advance renewable energy from the ocean using waves and tides.
The Southeast Minnesota Beacon Community, led by Mayo Clinic, is showcasing its work on health information exchange (HIE) technology at the HiMSS Conference. The team has developed a system that enables the transfer of patient data between healthcare providers in real-time, improving continuity of care and reducing costs.
During the US economic recession, continuously insured Americans underwent fewer screening colonoscopies due to increased direct out-of-pocket costs. This reduction in screenings was observed across all age groups, with a notable impact on those aged 50-64.
The American Heart Association has launched an online-only open-access journal, packed with free peer-reviewed research on heart disease and stroke. The new journal aims to accelerate the translation of science into practice through rapid and widespread accessibility.
Researchers at Berkeley Lab found structural images of CETP interacting with HDLs and LDLs, revealing a tunnel mechanism that facilitates cholesterol transfer. This discovery supports the design of next generation CETP inhibitors to prevent heart disease.
Researchers found that silencing GC-C weakens intestinal barrier, making body more susceptible to cancer. Stimulating GC-C strengthens the barrier and opposes pathological changes.
Researchers shed light on how vertebrates developed closed circulation systems, essential for carrying blood to organs and tissues. A specific domain in tRNA synthetase plays a crucial role in proper embryonic development, influencing key regulator of new blood vessel growth.
A recent study by a University of Nevada, Reno geophysicist presents evidence that the Cascadia fault line could experience stronger ground-motions than observed in Japan's Tohoku earthquake. The risk is a grim reminder for those living in the Pacific Northwest to be prepared for an earthquake and tsunami.
A combination of guideline-recommended therapies for heart failure treatment significantly improved two-year survival rates. Adding each therapy incrementally increased the overall survival rate, with a maximum 83% reduction in mortality at four-to-five-therapy plateau.
Dr. Anthony Grbic's innovative antenna design uses a hemispherical shape to achieve instant miniaturization, operating in one frequency band and potentially inexpensive to produce.
A rare fungus has been identified as the cause of mass deaths among eastern massasauga rattlesnakes in southern Illinois and similar cases in the northeast US. The fungus, Chrysosporium, is not normally seen in free-ranging animals but has been linked to disease in captive reptiles.
Scientists developed a novel biochemical assay and algorithm to detect fetal chromosomal abnormalities in maternal blood, achieving high accuracy and efficiency compared to existing methods. The new approach has the potential to reduce unnecessary invasive testing and improve screening for Down syndrome and Edwards syndrome.
Researchers discover a small protein fragment that enhances synaptic plasticity, leading to improved learning and memory in rats. The study provides new insights into the molecular mechanisms of synaptic plasticity and its manipulation for cognitive enhancement.
A randomized controlled trial found that vaccinating pregnant women against influenza increased mean birth weight and reduced small-for-gestational-age births. The study, conducted in Bangladesh, involved 340 healthy pregnant women who received either the influenza vaccine or a control vaccine.
The iHeal device detects physiological stressors associated with drug cravings, using sensors to measure physiological changes and body activity. The device delivers user-tailored behavioral interventions via smartphone software, aiming to prevent substance use and reduce health risk.
Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh have created a self-assembly method to grow gold nanowires, which can be used to detect poisonous gases such as hydrogen sulfide in natural gas. The gold nanowires are highly conductive and can detect gas levels comparable to existing sensing techniques.
A smart cow collar closely monitors health and sends results back to farmers using mobile phone technology, allowing for alerts on cow distress and improving insemination processes. The technology could make huge savings for farmers and contribute to the financial future of farms.
A recent study has found that mothers with high levels of the environmental pollutant PFOA during pregnancy have daughters who are three times more likely to be overweight at 20 years old. Elevated insulin and leptin levels were also observed in girls, while a weaker association was seen in sons.
A study published in PLOS Medicine suggests that text messaging can improve malaria control in Africa by transmitting information from the periphery to health managers, as well as supporting patient management. The authors highlight six areas where text messaging interventions can have a significant impact.
A mathematical model developed by researchers at the University of Vigo has confirmed that hórreos with slotted floors are more efficient in regulating temperature and ventilation. This traditional Galician dry-store structure was found to better preserve corn stored inside due to its ability to ventilate and regulate temperature.
Scientists have discovered a way to reduce cellulose crystallinity, a key stumbling block in biofuels development. The study found that certain mutations in genes encode cellulose synthase proteins can produce cellulose with lower crystallinity, making it easier to digest.
Dr. Richard Ransohoff receives the 2012 John Dystel Prize for his groundbreaking work on understanding and treating multiple sclerosis. His research has led to a deeper understanding of MS progression and the development of novel therapeutic targets.
A Mayo Clinic study found no link between prediabetes and diabetic polyneuropathy, suggesting alternative explanations for nerve damage. The five-year study tested nearly 550 people and concluded that impaired glucose does not cause polyneuropathy at high frequency.
A significant scientific discovery has been made in the fight against Huntington's disease, identifying specific enzymes called HDACs as positive agents for the mutation that underlies the disorder. Blocking these enzymes with experimental drugs greatly reduces the risk of further mutation.