A multinational team of scientists has sequenced 1,092 human genomes to determine the standard range of human genetic variation. This will enable biologists and physicians to interpret a patient's disease genome in a broader context, leading to better understanding and targeted treatment.
Researchers found evidence of worsened pregnancy outcomes with SSRI antidepressants, no benefits, and increased risk of miscarriage, preterm birth, and congenital abnormalities. The study suggests prescribing these medications with caution and counseling for women trying to get pregnant.
Exosomes from mesenchymal stem cells reduce lung inflammation and prevent pulmonary hypertension in a mouse model. The findings suggest exosome research could lead to new stem cell-based therapies for chronic lung disease and other inflammatory conditions.
The project profiles rare and common genetic variations in 1,092 individuals from 14 populations, capturing up to 98% of sequences for rare gene variants occurring in at least 1% of the population.
Researchers mapped out where birds live to show areas with most diversity, finding it accelerated in the Western Hemisphere. The 'phylogeny' could help prioritize conservation efforts by identifying species at greatest risk of extinction.
A new study found that physically active men have better semen parameters and hormone values than sedentary men. The study assessed 31 male participants and found significant differences in semen volume, sperm count, and hormone levels between physically active and sedentary groups.
Researchers characterized a drug about to enter clinical development by using mouse models with humanized livers, accurately predicting significant aspects of its behavior in humans. The findings hold huge implications for drug development, hinting that the drug could be both safe and effective in treating hepatitis C
Researchers at Scripps Research Institute have discovered new selective inhibitors of diacylglycerol lipases (DAGL), enzymes involved in making 2-AG, a key cannabinoid. Early tests suggest these compounds may also reduce pro-inflammatory molecules linked to rheumatoid arthritis, potentially leading to new therapeutic approaches.
A recent study published in Journal of Applied Physiology suggests that ceramide, a fat molecule, may contribute to muscle loss in older adults. The researchers found that older men had higher levels of ceramide in their muscles compared to younger men, and this was associated with reduced leg muscle mass.
Gustavo Arellano, best-selling author and '¡Ask a Mexican!' columnist, will discuss how Mexican food conquered America in his new book. He'll address misconceptions about what constitutes 'Mexican' food and its influence on US cuisine.
Michigan Engineering researchers have made a breakthrough in biofuel production by developing a quick cook method that turns algae into biocrude. The new method achieves an unprecedented 65 percent conversion rate, outperforming previous results after just one minute of heating.
Researchers identified a key gene in yeast responsible for creating beer's foamy head, which contributes to aroma and eye appeal. This discovery opens doors to new possibilities for brewing industry improvement.
Researchers have discovered the mechanism behind pond skaters' ability to walk on water. They use their middle leg to create swirling vortices, similar to those made by oars in a rowing boat, allowing them to move forward without sinking. The waxy hairs covering their legs also repel water and help generate an upward force.
Veterinary scientists found that obese dogs can experience metabolic syndrome, characterized by increased blood insulin and low adiponectin levels. The study showed that successful weight loss improved metabolic abnormalities in obese dogs.
A new study reveals that sleep duration affects hunger differently in men and women. In normal-weight participants aged 30-45, short sleep increased ghrelin levels in men but not women, while reducing GLP-1 levels in women. This sex difference is associated with increased appetite in men and reduced feelings of fullness in women.
A new analysis from the University of Pittsburgh Graduate School of Public Health found substantial local variation in health care spending within large geographic regions. The study reveals that many low-spending hospitals are located within high-spending areas, and vice versa.
Researchers suggest that causation may be the root of temporal binding, a phenomenon where events close in time are perceived as meaningful episodes. The study found that participants in experiments anticipating an event's flash showed significantly later predictions than those without causal understanding.
The article assesses Australia's giant eucalyptus trees' classification as rainforest species, sparked by their unique relationship with fire. The study finds that despite being dependent on fire for regeneration, these trees coexist on the margins of rainforests and should be considered part of the ecosystem.
Researchers have developed a new index to assess patients' progress with prosthetic arms, grading performance on 18 everyday tasks. The Activities Measure for Upper Limb Amputees (AM-ULA) considers movement quality and body compensation, providing clinicians with a reliable tool to evaluate treatment effectiveness.
A Phase 1 clinical trial has shown encouraging results for stereotactic radiosurgery in treating localized primary renal cancer, with 94% of patients experiencing decreased or stable disease and limited side effects. The non-invasive treatment technique may represent a potential new option for patients who have limited treatment options.
Research found that drought stress enriches microbial communities around plant roots, promoting drought resistance and increasing plant photosynthesis by up to 40%. This discovery highlights the importance of symbiotic relationships between plants and soil microbes in maintaining plant health.
Scientists discover unique space weathering process on asteroid Vesta, distinct from other asteroids like the Moon, where meteorite impacts mix soils mechanically rather than forming nanoparticles.
A new MS drug, alemtuzumab, has been shown to significantly reduce the number of attacks and disease activity in patients who have already failed to respond to other treatments. The study also found that alemtuzumab improved disability outcomes, with most patients experiencing an improvement in their condition.
The 1000 Genomes Project Consortium has successfully constructed an integrated map of genetic variation from 1,092 human genomes, capturing up to 98% of variants at 1% frequency. BGI contributed sequencing and bioinformatics expertise to the project, providing powerful approaches for researchers to conduct disease studies.
A new study identifies 71 additional genetic associations for IBD, many linked to immune-related disorders. Researchers found a strong overlap between IBD susceptibility genes and genes responding to mycobacterial infections.
A new study published in CNS Drugs found that a single dose of etanercept can rapidly improve chronic neurological dysfunction caused by stroke or traumatic brain injury, even years after the event. The observational study involved 629 patients and documented positive effects on motor impairment, spasticity, cognition, and more.
A study found that patients newly diagnosed with type 2 diabetes often receive little information on diet and physical activity, leading to feelings of isolation. The research highlights the need for easily accessible resources and support to help patients manage their condition.
Using cutting-edge virtual reality technology, researchers have successfully beamed a person into a rat facility, allowing the rat and human to interact on the same scale. The technology enables real-time interaction between humans and animals, providing new insights into animal behavior.
Short-term alcohol intake increases brain activity and GABA-mediated signal transmission in healthy social drinkers, altering the brain's resting-state network. The study suggests a potential mechanism for the effects of alcohol on the brain.
A CU-led study found that social environments play a crucial role in determining friendships, with genetically similar individuals more likely to form bonds in stratified settings. In contrast, egalitarian environments led to weaker genetic homophily among friends.
Researchers have created the most comprehensive family tree for birds, revealing recent and rapid diversification across nearly 10,000 species. Analysis shows that bird diversity has increased over the past 50 million years, with groups in northern North America and Eurasia exhibiting intense recent diversification.
A new study conducted at Baylor University's Mind-Body Medicine Research Laboratory found that hypnotic relaxation therapy significantly reduced hot flashes in postmenopausal women, with a decrease of up to 80% reported. The treatment also showed improvements in quality of life and reductions in anxiety and depression.
Key researchers propose standards and guidelines for Rett syndrome research to improve animal study design and transparency. The goal is to shorten the time to effective treatments and accelerate progress towards a cure.
The Visible Infrared Imaging Radiometer Suite (VIIRS) on NASA/NOAA's Suomi NPP captured a composite image of Hurricane Sandy just hours before its historic landfall. The satellite's day-night band sensor revealed city lights and clouds illuminated by the full moon, providing a unique view of the storm's structure.
The elderly are disproportionately affected by disasters like Hurricane Sandy due to inadequate disaster infrastructure and response. Experts highlight the need for targeted policies and refined programs to enhance existing systems of care.
The animation shows Hurricane Sandy's transformation from a strengthening tropical depression to a ferocious Nor'easter that brought devastating damage to the mid-Atlantic region. Total damage was estimated at $20 billion dollars.
Researchers at UC Santa Barbara have discovered a way to break a biological signaling system in embryos, allowing them to change the destiny of cells. This breakthrough could lead to new ways of making replacement organs. The study used genetic manipulation and a model nematode worm to unlock cells' destinies.
Researchers propose that cities link together to create a network of sustainable cities, analyzing how resources consumed within a city are sourced and transported. This approach aims to provide long-term resource security for cities while contributing to planetary stewardship.
A new study found that high blood pressure causes structural damage to the brain's white matter and gray matter, even among young adults. The research suggests that vascular brain injury develops insidiously over time, leading to accelerated brain aging and a higher risk of cognitive decline.
A 25-year study confirms the efficacy of nitisinone treatment for tyrosinemia, a life-threatening liver disease. Newborns treated with nitisinone from birth can have normal liver function after five years, erasing doubts about the treatment's benefits.
The 1000 Genomes Project has sequenced 1,092 human genomes, providing a genetic guidebook to help researchers interpret genetic changes in people with disease. The study found that rare gene variants are restricted to specific geographic regions and can be used to identify individuals at risk of certain conditions.
Researchers use antisense technology to target cancer cell metabolic process, killing cancer cells by blocking production of pyruvate kinase splice-variant. The approach shows therapeutic promise in treating various types of cancer.
A new study by University of Leicester researchers found that effective healthcare can reduce health inequalities in England, particularly in reducing death rates from diseases like stroke, heart disease, and cancer. The study discovered that population characteristics such as age and socio-economic deprivation are major factors contri...
Scientists visualize stresses induced by flowing blood in an embryonic heart for the first time, revealing how and why heart defects develop. The technique promises new insight into congenital heart defects such as abnormal valve formation.
A new study published in JAMA found that chronic kidney disease and its complications are associated with a higher risk of death regardless of age. Both low kidney function and high albuminuria were independently linked to mortality and end-stage renal disease, according to the findings.
A systematic review of medical education found that only a few studies addressed the need for obesity-related training, highlighting gaps in medical school curricula. The study's authors recommend incorporating evidence-based methods and addressing bias to improve patient care.
Researchers at Berkeley Lab discovered that protein-folding funnels can also apply to self-assembly of multiple proteins. The findings provide important guidelines for future biomimicry efforts, particularly in device fabrication and nanoscale synthesis.
A recent study found that dust's longwave radiation absorption causes more than half of the cooling effect to be countered by warming. This regional phenomenon has significant implications for understanding dust's influence on climate and moisture fluctuations.
A new study from the University of Copenhagen reveals that high blood cholesterol is far more prevalent in Denmark and globally than previously recognized. The research found 40,000 Danes with hereditary high blood cholesterol, a significant underdiagnosis and undertreatment of this serious disease.
Researchers at Rhode Island Hospital found that near-complete blood flow restoration is necessary to restore neurological function following stroke. The study suggests that partial restoration is not enough to improve patient outcomes, including the preservation of fine and gross motor skills, speech and behavior.
Researchers studied over 1,600 women for 10 years and found no correlation between dietary phytoestrogens or fiber intake and the onset of menopausal symptoms. Despite previous hypotheses that a diet high in phytoestrogens would reduce symptoms, the study suggests that finding a clinically significant effect would be unlikely.
Researchers at NYU, Harvard, and Dow Chemical develop a method to enhance colloidal dispersions, creating particles that spontaneously assemble into structures resembling molecules. This enables the design of complex 3-dimensional structures vital for advanced optical materials.
A team from the University of Manchester has identified a molecular biomarker that can predict which breast cancer patients are most likely to respond to tamoxifen treatment. The discovery could lead to more effective treatment options for patients who have not responded to traditional therapies.
Developed at Nationwide Children's Hospital, the Small Baby Guidelines have shown significant improvement in the lives of extremely premature infants. By standardizing care and ensuring every baby receives the same treatment, survival rates have increased and hospital stays have decreased.
Scientists have developed a new micropump capable of producing pressures up to 17,000 pounds per square inch for 'labs-on-a-chip' in handheld devices. This innovation could enable instant analysis of blood and urine at patient bedside, reducing the need for central lab waiting periods.
Research found that children as young as five behave generously when recipients can see their actions, not when sharing with an anonymous recipient. They also preferred transparent containers to opaque ones, indicating strategic decision-making about generosity.
The OU research team is combining robotics, machine learning, and brain imaging to assist infants with cerebral palsy in mastering crawling behavior. The project aims to develop new robot platforms that can enhance infant mobility and delay cognitive development delays.
A new study found that over 60% of western aspen trees in Utah and Colorado are triploid, with this genetic anomaly causing altered physical traits such as sterility or reduced fertility. The researchers also discovered a correlation between triploidy rates and regional climate variation.
Researchers at Max Planck Institute for Ornithology discovered that testosterone regulates solo song in African white-browed sparrow weavers. In females, testosterone treatment induced male-typical solo song development. The study highlights a complex relationship between hormone concentration and song behavior in tropical birds.
A new analysis found that the Medicare rule blocking simultaneous hospice and skilled nursing facility care at the end of life results in patients receiving less aggressive treatments and dying outside of hospitals. Residents with concurrent hospice and SNF care were 87% less likely to die in the hospital compared to those without hosp...
A study led by Vanderbilt University Medical Center researchers found that regular green tea consumption is associated with a reduced risk of digestive system cancers, particularly for stomach/esophagus and colorectal cancers. Women who drank green tea at least three times a week had a 17-21% lower risk compared to non-tea drinkers.
Reducing nitrogen fertilizer use by 60% in over-fertilized areas could substantially decrease greenhouse gas emissions without affecting crop productivity. The study found that N2O emissions have become the dominant factor in China's warming effect, surpassing the cooling effects of CO2 uptake.
A monoclonal antibody called alemtuzumab shows promise in reducing MS disease activity, with nearly half as many relapses as a common current treatment. The drug also appears to improve disability outlook, particularly in refractory patients who have not responded to previous treatments.
Researchers have identified three black raspberry populations with strong aphid resistance, controlled by multiple genes in two cases and a dominant gene in the third. This breakthrough could help protect fruit production from black raspberry necrosis virus.
The 1000 Genomes Project has mapped normal human genetic variation at different scales, revealing differences between individuals and populations. The results open new approaches for research on the genetic causes of diseases, including links to specific DNA sequences and their inherited variants.
Researchers have compiled the largest human genetic variation catalog, involving over 1,000 individuals from 14 ethnic groups. The massive resource will help medical researchers find the genetic roots of rare and common diseases in populations worldwide.
A new study by RAND Corporation found that people who visit retail medical clinics are less likely to return to a primary care physician for future illnesses and have less continuity of care. However, there was no evidence that retail clinics disrupted preventive medical care or diabetes management.
The UMSOM dean and co-author argue that changes to diagnostic criteria could dramatically increase the number of women identified with gestational diabetes, placing a burden on healthcare systems. They advise caution before revising guidelines due to potential risks and costs.
Research found that math anxiety activates regions of the brain associated with physical pain, while anticipation of math increases neural activity. Individuals with high math anxiety tend to avoid math-related situations due to a potential neural basis for this avoidance.
Researchers have identified 71 genetic regions associated with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), increasing the total number discovered to date to 163. The study reveals that IBD may result from an over-active immune response, which can lead to inflammation and damage in the intestinal tract.
Scientists found that carbon-rich asteroids have been splattering dark material on Vesta's surface over billions of years, creating a youthful appearance. The protoplanet's bright outer layer remains pristine, with tiny metallic particles absent, indicating minimal weathering.
Researchers developed an all-carbon solar cell that absorbs near-infrared wavelengths, offering a low-cost alternative to traditional photovoltaic devices. The device uses carbon nanomaterials and has the potential to improve efficiency through better materials and processing techniques.
A study by UC Berkeley engineers used a tabletop model to understand high-frequency waves of earthquakes, which can cause rapid shaking. The research found that longer fault healing times lead to faster shaking upon rupture, providing insights for building vulnerability assessments and mitigation strategies.
A University of Michigan study found that automated calls and home blood pressure monitoring can significantly reduce blood pressures and depressive symptoms among hypertensive patients in Honduras and Mexico. The program showed promising results, especially among patients with limited literacy and income.
Research at the University of Chicago shows that math anxiety can prompt a brain response similar to physical pain. The anticipation of doing math activates the same brain areas as registering bodily harm or experiencing pain.
Scientists have confirmed the existence of a new tick-borne disease in Switzerland, neoehrlichiosis, which has infected eight patients with severe symptoms. A DNA test has been developed to detect the infection quickly, allowing for timely treatment.
Researchers created a device that tames the flow of photons using synthetic magnetism, breaking the time-reversal symmetry of light. This innovation enables precise control over photon trajectories, opening up novel ways to manipulate light for various applications.
A NIST team developed a model to predict cell behavior and change, using a data-driven landscape approach. The method provides reliable numbers for the complex evolution of cell populations, crucial for biomanufacturing and stem cell therapies.
Researchers identify red/blond pigment as contributor to melanoma formation in fair-skinned individuals, suggesting a new mechanism to explain the elevated risk. The discovery may lead to improved sunscreens and measures directly addressing this pigmentation-associated risk.
Researchers identify SRGAP3 protein as root cause of several childhood psychiatric disorders, including schizophrenia, autism, and hydrocephalus. The discovery opens new avenues for targeted treatments rather than symptom relief.
Researchers at Fox Chase Cancer Center found that low lymphocyte counts are associated with poor survival rates in Merkel cell carcinoma patients. Patients with higher lymphocyte counts tend to live longer after treatment and have better disease-free survival.
A recent study by University of Illinois professor Gail M. Ferguson reveals that Jamaican teen immigrants who retain strong ties to their Jamaican background excel academically and behaviorally, often outperforming American peers.
Researchers discovered a method to improve softwoods' performance by mimicking the black locust tree's heartwood properties, which reduces water collection and resists rot. The treated wood is harder and more resistant to changing humidity, making it a more stable building material.
Researchers at OHSU have discovered that blocking a specific enzyme can promote myelin-forming cell differentiation and remyelination in MS patients, potentially leading to improved nerve cell function. The discovery could be a 'life-changer' for millions with MS and other demyelinating diseases.
Physicists create graphene mini-labs to study fast-moving electrons and their relativistic behavior. The experiments mimic the dynamics of cosmic rays, despite traveling at a fraction of the speed of light.
A recent study published in the Journal of Leukocyte Biology found that T-cells responsible for controlling herpes viruses are reduced significantly during new infections, allowing latent viruses to reactivate. This understanding could lead to prevention strategies and improved treatment options for people with herpes.
A Northwestern University study found that black football players are more likely to be penalized for celebrations compared to their white counterparts. Participants rated arrogance levels equally regardless of race but suggested lower compensation for black celebrants. This 'hubris penalty' highlights racial bias in NFL rewards.
A study by Rhode Island Hospital researcher Mark Zimmerman found that patients and clinicians have distinct definitions of remission from major depressive disorder. Patients prioritize life satisfaction and well-being over symptoms, emphasizing the importance of a patient-centered approach to treatment.
Researchers discover a protein that recognizes damaged DNA bases, which could lead to cancer. The discovery may help identify individual susceptibility to certain cancers, particularly colorectal cancer.