This April issue of the Genetics Society of America's journal features research on genotyping-by-sequencing, a novel gene silencing system in fungi, and the role of protein chaperone HSP90 in facilitating gene duplicate divergence. Additionally, studies explore genome integrity and RNA editing in mice.
Individuals with abdominal fat are at greater risk of heart disease and cancer compared to those with a similar BMI who carry their fat in other areas. The study used CT scans to assess ectopic fat locations around the heart tissue and aortic artery.
Researchers found that chronic preoperative pain, chemotherapy, and depression were linked to persistent pain in breast cancer patients 12 months post-surgery. The study included over 800 women with nonmetastasized breast cancer treated between 2006-2010.
A new study found that vitamin E delays progression of functional decline by 19% per year, translating into a 6.2-month benefit over placebo. Vitamin E is also easy to purchase and inexpensive, making it a potential treatment strategy for mild-to-moderate Alzheimer's disease.
Scientists discovered previously unseen binary companions to young protostars using upgraded VLA capabilities. The findings support the disk-fragmentation idea, which suggests double stars form when a gas and dust disk fragments, forming a new star in orbit with the first.
A Loyola University Chicago study found that medical students are concerned about becoming insensitive when dealing with a dying patient and their family. The study highlighted the importance of compassionate presence, communication, and emotional support in end-of-life care.
Researchers found that fetal umbilical veins exhibit stress relaxation and creep properties similar to those of middle cerebral arteries, making them a suitable alternative for reconstruction. These findings indicate that the fetal umbilical vein can be transplanted to repair middle cerebral artery injury with favorable outcomes.
Astronomers have detected clear evidence of clouds in the atmosphere of GJ 1214b, a super-Earth exoplanet, using data from the Hubble Space Telescope. The findings suggest that high-altitude clouds blanket the planet, hiding information about its composition and behavior.
A new study predicts significant declines in deep-sea marine life due to climate change, with up to 38% loss in the North Atlantic and over 5% globally by 2100. This will impact ecosystem services such as fishing and food supply, driving changes in seafloor communities.
A new study from Uppsala University reveals that one night of sleep deprivation can increase morning blood concentrations of NSE and S-100B in healthy young men. These molecules are typically found in the brain and may indicate a loss of brain tissue. The findings suggest that good sleep is crucial for maintaining brain health.
A retrospective analysis of inpatients found that hyperhomocysteinemia and abnormal blood lipids exert synergistic effects on the onset of stroke. Patients with elevated homocysteine levels and abnormal blood lipids are predisposed to stroke, highlighting the importance of managing both conditions.
Georgia Regents University has joined the Cooperative Multicenter Reproductive Medicine Network to conduct large-scale clinical trials on male and female infertility. The network aims to develop novel diagnostic and treatment strategies for complex reproductive health issues, including polycystic ovary syndrome and delayed puberty.
New research reveals global climate sensitivity is higher than previously thought due to correct representation of water vapor in cloud formation. Global temperatures are expected to increase by 3-5°C with a doubling of carbon dioxide, with potentially more extreme warming if emissions are not reduced.
Researchers have found that poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) tubes exhibit superior viscoelasticity to autologous nerve grafts in repairing damaged sciatic nerves. This suggests PLGA could be a more effective biomaterial for such repairs.
Researchers at Aalto University have discovered that emotional states trigger distinct bodily sensations, with consistent patterns across West European and East Asian cultures. The study found that awareness of these bodily changes can lead to conscious emotional sensations like happiness, highlighting the biological basis of emotions.
Three-dimensional large-aperture GRIN lens antennas are fabricated using multilayer inhomogeneous drilling holes or square ring resonators, offering high gain, broad bandwidth, and dual polarization. A simple flat GRIN lens is used to focus electromagnetic waves with minimal phase changes.
Researchers found that desert winter annuals outperform each other based on their water use efficiency and growth rate. In wet environments, plants with higher water-use efficiency thrive, while those with faster growth rates dominate in dry years.
A pilot study will test the effectiveness of self-generated learning in individuals with multiple sclerosis who have memory and learning difficulties. Researchers aim to improve memory performance, functional performance, quality of life, and satisfaction with treatment.
Vitamin E, a fat-soluble antioxidant, has been shown to slow functional decline and reduce caregiver time in patients with mild to moderate Alzheimer disease. In contrast to previous trials, this study found no significant increase in mortality risk with vitamin E, suggesting potential cost-effectiveness.
Researchers warn that US government's plan to end wolf protection could harm other endangered species due to habitat suitability rules. The proposed rule contradicts existing research and law, putting human intolerance as a reason for land being unsuitable.
Seventy-year-olds who played high school sports are more likely to be active into their late 70s. The study found that participation in high school sports was the best predictor of regular exercise at age 78.
A new DNA barcode has been identified for palms, allowing for reliable species recognition and hybrid detection. The study successfully identified eight out of thirteen species and correctly identified over 82% of the individuals screened.
Researchers developed a technique to study RSV's structure and activity in living cells, which could lead to the development of new antiviral drugs and a vaccine. The imaging technology uses probes that quickly attach to RNA within cells, allowing scientists to visualize the virus's entry, assembly, and replication.
A systematic review of experimental studies found that providing information about others' eating habits influences food intake and choices. Social norms play a significant role in shaping eating behaviors, even when individuals are alone or unaware of the influence.
Mangroves have expanded dramatically along Florida's Atlantic Coast as frost frequency declined, replacing salt marshes. This change is linked to extreme weather patterns and rising temperatures.
A new invasive plant parasitic nematode, Meloidogyne mali, has been identified in Europe, causing severe galling symptoms on host trees. The species was likely introduced during breeding programs against Dutch Elm Disease and may have a wider host range than known.
Researchers have identified two novel BRAF fusions in melanomas previously considered to be negative for molecular targets, suggesting that these tumors may be sensitive to MEK inhibitors. The findings could provide a new treatment option for patients with hard-to-treat melanomas.
Researchers found that both time and body size significantly impact DNA barcode sequencing success. Larger spiders have a longer shelf life for sequencing, while nondestructive extraction techniques can improve chances of obtaining a sequence from smaller species.
Climate change is allowing mangroves to thrive in new areas around northern Florida, with the species' range expanding by over 3,000 acres between 1984 and 2011. The growth of mangroves may pose challenges for other coastal ecosystems, such as salt marshes, which could face loss of habitat and biodiversity.
Research from UC Davis Health found that high HDL and low LDL cholesterol levels are associated with lower brain amyloid plaque deposits, a hallmark of Alzheimer's disease. This study provides evidence for the importance of cholesterol management in preventing cognitive decline.
Researchers discovered reduced autophagy in schizophrenic patients' brains, which may lead to cell death. Boosting beclin 1 levels could restore balance and prevent harmful brain-cell death. ADNP levels were also found to be increased in the blood of schizophrenia patients.
Researchers found no link between fructose and postprandial triglycerides, a marker for cardiovascular risk. However, excessive calorie intake from fructose contributes to negative health outcomes.
The field trial with genetically modified poplar trees demonstrates that lignin modification can improve sugar conversion and increase ethanol production. The results also show mixed suppression of the lignin biosynthesis in the trees, leading to variable coloration and growth rates.
A new study found that slowing down meal pace can lead to reduced hunger and calories consumed in normal-weight individuals. However, the effect was less pronounced in overweight or obese subjects, who may have eaten less due to self-consciousness. Both groups experienced lower hunger levels after slower-paced meals.
Many clinical studies on vitamins have poor methodology, leading to inaccurate conclusions and defying existing evidence. New methodologies are needed to provide scientifically valid information to consumers with inadequate diets or deficiencies.
Conversations about sex are rare between doctors and teenagers, lasting only a minute on average, despite the American Academy of Pediatrics recommending physicians address these topics. Longer visits and confidentiality increase the chances that sex is mentioned.
The study found that DNA barcoding increases the accuracy of monitoring marine mammal biodiversity, allowing for earlier detection of impacts from climate change and human activities. By using DNA barcoding in conjunction with a stranding network, researchers can better track species distribution and abundance.
A UT Southwestern Medical Center study found that blocking immune system molecule interferon-gamma (IFN-γ) and matching major histocompatibility complex (MHC) genotypes can improve corneal transplant acceptance rates in mice. The strategy enhances long-term graft survival, almost guaranteeing success.
Research reveals that five amino acid differences control allelic variations in the csd gene, determining femaleness in honeybees. The study found an evolutionary intermediate with only three amino acid differences between lethality and induced femaleness, supporting incomplete penetrance as a mechanism for gradual molecular evolution.
A recent study found that minority physicians care for 54% of minority patients and 70% of non-English-speaking patients. Minority physicians are also more likely to care for patients with lower self-reported health status. The study suggests expanding the racial diversity of the physician workforce could improve access to care.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins University found that testosterone enhances male canary's motivation to sing but not the quality of their songs. The hormone affects different brain areas, increasing song frequency but not altering its attractiveness to females.
A study in The Journal of General Physiology reveals how nicotine up-regulates nAChRs through COPI-coated vesicles, playing a major role in nicotine addiction. This finding may also contribute to the decreased susceptibility of smokers to Parkinson's disease.
A recent study published in the Journal of General Internal Medicine found that Medicaid beneficiaries are more likely to seek emergency care due to access issues rather than the severity of their illness. The study suggests that policy makers should focus on increasing timely access to primary care, especially for Medicaid beneficiaries.
Researchers found mangroves are expanding along hundreds of miles of coastline in Florida, with a doubling of habitat in areas like Daytona Beach and Titusville. The expansion is linked to a decrease in cold snaps, which allows mangroves to thrive in previously inhospitable conditions.
The US Preventive Services Task Force recommends annual low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) screening for high-risk adults between 55 and 80 years old. Heavy smokers or former heavy smokers who have quit within the past 15 years are considered high risk due to increased lung cancer risk. The recommendation is based on comprehensive evi...
Researchers found that weekend drinking leads to double the oxidative damage compared to non-drinkers, with DNA damage affecting 44% of cells in drinker group. The study reveals a new potential health risk associated with young people's alcohol consumption.
A recent study used DNA barcoding to identify Dutch bird species with high resolution, flagging some for further investigation. The approach was particularly useful in museums, such as the Naturalis Biodiversity Center, where DNA tissue vouchers are already prepared.
The NUS team has developed a new Magnetoresistive Random Access Memory (MRAM) technology that can store data for at least 20 years, increasing storage space and enhancing memory. This innovation has the potential to change the architecture of computers, making them easier to manufacture and reducing costs.
Recent model calculations suggest that Earth's primary crust formed during the Archean eon was so dense it subside into the mantle. This process, known as delamination, triggered a return flow of mantle material to form new crust.
Researchers at Hebrew University have discovered how persistent bacteria survive antibiotic treatment by disrupting the chemical messaging process. This understanding could lead to improved therapies in the future.
Researchers identified two genetic variations in the MAPT gene associated with sporadic amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) in the Chinese Han population. Patients with these variations were more prone to bulbar palsy and breathing difficulties than those with the wild-type genotype.
The study found that melatonin receptor 1 expression is significantly reduced in the caudal spinal nucleus, leading to an attenuated regulatory effect on pain. This breakthrough discovery has implications for understanding pain transmission and developing new treatments.
Researchers found contralateral needling at specific acupoints significantly promotes recovery of affected limb function in stroke patients. The study demonstrated superior therapeutic effects compared to conventional acupuncture.
A new study found that patients with Aiming deficits improved on the Catherine Bergego Scale, while those with only Where deficits did not. Prism adaptation therapy showed intermediate improvement in patients with both types of deficits.
A year after arthroscopic partial meniscectomy, patients showed equally low incidence of symptoms and were satisfied with their knee. The study suggests that surgery is not an effective form of treatment for degenerative meniscal tears, and instead recommends exercise and rehabilitation as a more effective approach.
A study of 1,244 patients with lumbar disc herniation found that surgery led to greater long-term improvement in pain, functioning, and disability compared to nonsurgical treatment. Patients who underwent surgery showed significant reductions in pain scores, physical functioning, and disability.
A national survey of 497 mothers found that those familiar with MyPlate were more likely to be 'vegetable lovers' and involve their kids in meal prep. The study suggests involving kids in meal planning, making healthy options appealing to families, and utilizing the USDA's ChooseMyPlate website for practical tips.
Researchers found that normobaric oxygen exposure improved neurological deficits and reduced infarct volume in rats with focal cerebral ischemia. The protective effect was linked to increased expression of certain genes involved in the hypoxia-inducial factor signaling pathway.
Researchers found that the combination of nerve growth factor-releasing microspheres and chitosan conduits significantly increased nerve conduction velocity and amplitude, attenuating muscular atrophy induced by facial nerve defects. The sustained release of active nerve growth factor lasted for at least 90 days.
A new Tropical Depression is forming near Australia's Kimberly coast, with System 98S expected to develop into Cyclone 05S on Saturday. Heavy rainfall and gusty winds are forecast for coastal areas, including gusts up to 100 km/h and heavy rain from Port Hedland to Mardie and Karratha.