Researchers from Germany and Slovakia have found that triclosan concentrations in the Elbe river basin exceeded predicted no-effect concentrations by up to a factor of twelve. Triclosan is currently not included in routine monitoring programs, despite being used extensively in personal care products and sportswear.
Tropical Storm Son-tinh is moving into the South China Sea after affecting the Philippines. The storm is expected to cross the sea and make landfall in northern Vietnam on October 27.
Scientists at the University of Rochester Medical Center claim to be close to human application of stem cell therapies for neurological diseases. They focus on oligodendrocytes and glial progenitor cells, which can be easily manipulated and transplanted.
A large Australian family's genetic mystery has been solved, revealing the cause of their rare intellectual disability as altered protein regulation. The study found that a specific gene and its regulation played a key role in triggering the disability, which affects only male family members.
A recent genomics study reveals that comparing diseased patients' genomes with those of people from similar ancestries can dramatically simplify searches for harmful mutations, potentially leading to more effective treatments. The study's tool, the Scripps Genome Adviser, uses a reference panel of less than 20 genomes to identify ances...
A large registry study found that patients with low levels of platelet inhibition after receiving a drug-eluting stent are at higher risk for blood clots and heart attacks. However, this responsiveness to clopidogrel was also linked to reduced bleeding complications.
A study published by the American Heart Association found that smoking survivors have a 30% higher risk of poor outcomes compared to non-smokers. Quitting smoking before a stroke also reduces this risk. The study suggests targeting smoking cessation programs for disadvantaged youth who are more likely to smoke.
Researchers at Uppsala University found that male genitalia morphology affects fertilization success in female seed beetles, driving rapid evolutionary changes. This competition among males has generated significant biological diversity and contributed to species formation.
A team of scientists at the Max Planck Institute for Gravitational Physics discovered a record-breaking millisecond pulsar, PSR J1311-3430, using a new data analysis method. The pulsar is accompanied by an unusual sub-stellar partner that it is vaporizing, earning it the nickname 'black widow'.
A new study found that resveratrol supplementation did not improve metabolic function or prevent health problems in healthy, post-menopausal women. The study suggests that resveratrol may have a synergistic effect when combined with other compounds in red wine.
Researchers from SDSU will examine the effect of payments for ecosystem services on the conservation of the Guizhou snub-nosed monkey in China. The project aims to understand the environmental and socio-demographic changes initiated by these payments and their sustainability.
Entomologists at UC Riverside reconstructed the evolutionary history of assassin bugs using molecular, paleontological, behavioral, and ecological data. The new phylogeny reveals that kissing bugs originated around 27-32 million years ago, contradicting previous estimates, and suggests a single origin or two separate but close origins.
A recent study by UCSF researchers found that supporting entrepreneurs in academia can lead to extraordinary traction in translating academic research into public benefit. The study found 60 new companies and 75 bioscience entrepreneurs in just six years, generating over $230 million in funding.
Planarians can regrow missing organs, including the intestine, after injury. Researchers identified genes that control intestinal growth and regeneration using RNA interference. The study provides insights into stem cell division, cellular events, and molecular signaling pathways involved in organ regeneration.
A recent analysis of Japan fisheries data reveals that most fish caught off the northeast coast remain below seafood consumption limits, despite tightened regulations. However, highly contaminated demersal fish consistently show high levels of cesium contamination from the damaged nuclear power plant.
Researchers discovered MICU1's crucial role in regulating mitochondrial calcium uptake, preventing overload and cellular stress. The protein acts as a gatekeeper, setting a brake for calcium influx to maintain beneficial levels.
Researchers have developed a new technique to study how myeloids become white blood cells, providing new insights into the molecular mechanisms at work during this process. This approach offers potential improvements in treating myeloid diseases like leukemia by identifying key regulatory pathways and developing therapeutic strategies.
A University of Toronto study demonstrates that early life adversity affects adult behavior and quality of life, with chronic food deprivation impacting foraging gene expression. The research also shows that nutritionally deprived fruit flies exhibit reduced reproductive fitness.
Researchers found that ancient European hippos shrunk in size during the Pleistocene Era due to changing environmental conditions. The study suggests that temperature, food availability, and other factors influenced their adaptation.
A new 'lab on a chip' developed by Brigham Young University researchers can detect extremely low concentrations of molecules, allowing for potential disease diagnosis. The device uses capillary action and receptor-lined pipes to measure molecule concentrations, providing an alternative to conventional lab equipment.
Researchers at Sam Houston State University are creating a laboratory test to detect key components of bath salts in biological samples. The new test will target eight common synthetic cathinones found in the substance, which poses significant challenges for law enforcement agencies and forensic toxicology labs.
A new analysis of Hubble observations suggests Fomalhaut b is a rare, uniquely massive planet shrouded by dust. The team found the planet remained at constant brightness, contradicting earlier interpretations of it as a transient dust cloud.
Researchers at Simon Fraser University have identified 475,806 genetic variants in the human genome that contribute to a 30% risk of developing Multiple Sclerosis. These variants, particularly those on chromosome 6, are linked to small DNA variations that have long been associated with MS susceptibility.
A recent study published in Science suggests that evolution can be predictable by understanding a species' genes and how external conditions affect proteins. By analyzing DNA sequences from 29 insect species, researchers found that certain traits evolve similarly due to environmental pressures.
Whitehead scientists found that traditional approaches ignore differences in mRNA amounts between cells, which can lead to misinterpretations in cancer research. The team proposes using RNA spike-ins as a standardized control to eliminate assumptions.
Researchers have developed a new laser-activated bio-adhesive polymer called SurgiLux, which forms low-energy bonds with tissues when activated by light. This technology has the potential to replace traditional sutures in clinical settings, particularly for delicate tissues like neurons or blood vessels.
The 25th ECNP Congress showcased innovative research on brain disorders, highlighting the importance of neuroscience in prevention and treatment. Key findings included new insights into neural plasticity and its potential for novel treatments.
Researchers at UC Davis have developed a novel drug delivery system using nanoparticles that targets bladder cancer cells, allowing for higher doses of chemotherapy while reducing side effects. The system also enables diagnostic imaging, offering potential benefits for advanced bladder cancer treatment and management.
The PC Trial found that catheter-based PFO closure using an investigational device did not decrease ischemic and bleeding events compared to standard medical therapy. Stroke risk was non-significantly reduced with device therapy, with a relative risk reduction of 37 percent.
Tropical Storm Tony is weakening as its cloud top temperatures rise, signaling a shift towards dissipating over the weekend. The storm's organization and deep convection are being disrupted by strong winds and cooler waters, leading to its expected dissipation on October 27-28.
A large-scale international study has identified three new gene variants associated with body mass index (BMI) levels in adults, providing fundamental insights into the biology of adult obesity. The study used a versatile gene discovery chip to detect gene variants involved in lipid-related diseases and other disorders.
Scientists at Duke University Medical Center discovered that specific sensory neurons play a crucial role in the perception of touch in fruit fly larvae. These neurons, characterized by thin spikes and dynamic filopodia structures, are sensitive to force and trigger responses when activated.
A Concordia University study found that lonely older adults who use positive thinking can reverse negative health issues, reducing cortisol secretion and improving CRP levels. This suggests a positive approach to health can contribute to successful aging.
Researchers predict warmer oceans will cause phytoplankton to thrive near the poles and shrink in equatorial waters due to temperature changes. This shift could lead to a decline in global carbon cycle and climate change.
Tropical Storm Murjan made landfall on October 25 in eastern Somalia, just south of Cape Guardafui. The storm's western half brought thunderstorms with cloud top temperatures as cold as -63F (-52C), potentially leading to heavy rainfall.
A pilot study shows that adoption activity days are twice as effective as other methods of family finding, with 30% of children placed in adoptive families. The events provide a fun day out for children while also helping social workers and prospective adopters connect.
A recent study has found that former political prisoners in East Germany continue to experience post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) 15 years after their imprisonment. The study, which followed up with 78 men and 15 women who were initially interviewed in the mid-1990s, revealed that PTSD affects about a third of those studied.
A novel hydration protocol guided by left ventricular end-diastolic pressure reduced kidney damage by 59% in patients undergoing cardiac catheterization, according to the POSEIDON trial. The study found that this technique can be easily implemented and adapted for both inpatient and outpatient settings.
Researchers have developed targeted T-cell therapies that can recognize and destroy glioma stem cells, which are resistant to traditional treatments. The new approaches involve genetically modifying T-cells to target specific antigens on tumor cells, potentially improving treatment efficacy and reducing cancer recurrence.
Researchers at Stanford University School of Medicine have devised an efficient and safer way to make induced pluripotent stem cells by using just proteins that encode genes. The study identifies a critical component in how these cells transform, which could pave the way for their use in humans.
A large-scale analysis of Y chromosomes found two spontaneously recurring deletions responsible for approximately 8% of failed sperm production. The deletion known as b2/b4 increases the risk of severe spermatogenic failure and is associated with roughly 6% of cases.
Researchers at the University of Alberta found that extreme exercise depictions on TV shows like The Biggest Loser can create negative attitudes towards physical activity. Watching a clip from the show raised participants' worst possible thoughts about exercise, counteracting public health efforts to encourage more active lifestyles.
Dr. Ellen K. Pikitch cautions against traditional fisheries management, citing current studies that show fish populations are below recommended levels and most species are declining. A more precautionary approach is needed to protect marine ecosystems.
Researchers have discovered a new potential treatment for malaria that rapidly kills the blood-borne Plasmodium parasites. The molecules identified can target all stages of the parasite's life cycle, offering hope for an effective cure within ten years.
A study by Georgia Institute of Technology found that older adults (65-93 years) are willing to use robots for tasks like cleaning, laundry, and taking out the trash. However, they tend to prefer human assistance for personal care activities like getting dressed, eating, and bathing.
Hurricane Sandy's powerful storm system is moving towards the Bahamas, bringing strong winds and heavy rainfall. The satellite imagery captures a large area of cold cloud tops indicating the storm's power, with temperatures as low as -63 Fahrenheit (-52 Celsius) in some areas.
Researchers found that spaceflight compromises the ability of arteries and veins to constrict, leading to orthostatic hypotension upon return to Earth. This condition affects up to half of astronauts on short-term missions and nearly all on long-term missions.
A recent study published in Health Psychology found that people's satisfaction with life is directly impacted by their daily physical activity. By exercising just a little more than usual, individuals can significantly improve their satisfaction with life.
A large-scale clinical trial found that PFO closure using the Amplatzer PFO Occluder reduces recurrent ischemic strokes compared to standard medical therapy. The study enrolled 980 patients with documented cryptogenic embolic strokes and followed them for nearly nine years.
The study of Australopithecus afarensis shoulder blades reveals a partially arboreal lifestyle. The fossils show an apelike shape, indicating the species was adapted for climbing trees in addition to walking on two legs.
Dennis Trombatore has been named the 2012 winner of the William B. Heroy Award for his exceptional service to the American Geosciences Institute. He will be honored for his work strengthening the GeoRef Database, improving access to geoscience resources.
The Johns Hopkins team used X-ray crystallography to map the arrangement of atoms in the enzyme that forms unique molecular bonds within the cell wall of Mycobacterium tuberculosis. This structure reveals a distinct pattern of bonds, creating a new target for TB drug development.
Researchers have discovered a narrow stellar stream in the southern Galactic sky, believed to be the remnant of an ancient star cluster being ingested by the Milky Way. This finding provides new insight into how galaxies form and evolve through hierarchical merging of smaller galaxies and star clusters.
Researchers found that anesthesia drugs like isoflurane boost activity in a part of the brain that increases during natural sleep, forcing important sleep circuits to fire. This finding could lead to a deeper understanding of how anesthetics work and potentially improve treatment options for patients.
Researchers at Boston College have found that tiny ripples on a topological insulator's surface can modulate Dirac electrons into flowing pathways mirroring the surface topography. This modulation allows for control over electron flow, potentially leading to the creation of a one-dimensional quantum wire.
Researchers used zebrafish to test genetic mutations that affect human skin color and found that some mutations had no effect on the fish's skin color. This approach may be useful in identifying which genetic mutations can be ignored and which require attention, potentially aiding personalized medicine.
Research reveals antagonistic pleiotropy is very common in yeast, where genes can harm or benefit depending on environment. The study's findings have broad implications for human genetics and disease treatment.
Researchers discovered a unique immune gene signature linked to microscopic lymph node-like structures in metastatic melanoma, which may predict better survival and enable personalized immunotherapy.
Researchers discovered that powerful antibiotics can only partly block protein synthesis in bacteria, allowing the cells to continue producing proteins that may ultimately lead to their own demise. This finding has significant implications for antibiotic development and could lead to the creation of more effective treatments.
Researchers at Henry Ford Health found a significant link between steroid injections and increased risk of bone fractures in the spine. The study revealed a 29% higher fracture rate with each injection, highlighting patient safety concerns.