Researchers have found that a drug already approved to treat multiple sclerosis may also slow and potentially reverse cardiac hypertrophy, a disorder that often leads to heart failure. By mimicking certain lipids in the body, FTY-720 significantly reduces heart mass and improves overall cardiac function.
A study by Weill Cornell Medicine found that even healthy-looking smokers have damaged airway cells with characteristics similar to those in aggressive lung cancer. The researchers discovered that these cells express human embryonic stem cell genes, which are normally only active in developing embryos.
Scientists at Emory Health Sciences have developed a method to steer mesenchymal stem cells using magnets, which could potentially be used to treat cardiovascular diseases. The nanoparticles used in this study are FDA-approved for MRI purposes and protect the cell from damage.
The Geological Society of America recognized Steven M. Stanley, Richard W. Carlson, and Naomi E. Levin for their groundbreaking research in geology and earth sciences at the 2013 Annual Meeting & Exposition. The winners received prestigious medals, including the Penrose Medal and the Young Scientist Award.
A new study from an international team of researchers found that only eight out of 160 meta-analyses of potential neurological treatments yielded statistically significant, unbiased data. The study highlights the need for more stringent requirements to assess animal studies before testing treatments in human patients.
A genetic study published in Neural Regeneration Research identified the G4A polymorphism of the scavenger receptor class B type I gene as a possible predisposing risk factor for atherosclerotic cerebral infarction. The study found that individuals with the G4A GA + AA genotype had higher serum levels of high-density lipoprotein choles...
A new study by Mark Scott suggests that corollary discharge, a predictive brain signal, plays a crucial role in our experiences of internal speech. The findings indicate that the internal copy of our voice produced by corollary discharge can be generated even without external sound, making us believe we hear ourselves speak.
New research suggests that dementia prevalence in the UK has fallen from 8.3% in 1991 to 6.5% in 2011, a reduction of 24.1%. This decline is attributed to lower rates among women and no change in prevalence among men.
Researchers found that patients with pre-diabetes who lose 10% or more of their body weight have an 85% reduction in risk of developing diabetes within three years. Lifestyle changes can bring blood sugar levels back to normal, reducing the risk of progression to type 2 disease.
Researchers found that Arg-Phe-amide-related peptide-1 modulates the hypothalamus-pituitary-gonadal axis by inhibiting kisspeptin-activated gonadotropin-releasing hormone neurons. The study also revealed a potential role for gonadotropin-inhibitory hormone in regulating reproductive development.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine have successfully grown new blood vessels from pluripotent stem cells and transplanted them into mice, a crucial step towards developing personalized treatments. The new technique could enable genetically matched blood vessels that are less likely to be rejected by patients' immune systems.
The University of Huddersfield will create a Centre of Innovation in Rail with the received funding, building on its Institute of Railway Research's world-class research and training capabilities. The project aims to address identified challenges in engineering, safety, risk, and skills, improving UK railway competitiveness.
A new study published in the journal Radiology found that excess liver and muscle fat can increase the risk of osteoporosis by affecting bone marrow quality. Higher levels of bone marrow fat were linked to increased fracture risk, suggesting that obesity can weaken bones.
A long-term study of 3,275 young adults found that the duration of obesity is independently linked to the development of subclinical heart disease. The researchers discovered that participants who remained obese for a longer period had higher levels of coronary artery calcification.
Scientists developed a histology expression predictor for common types of lung cancer using paraffin samples, achieving accuracy comparable to pathologists. The technology has potential applications in predicting responses to therapies and prognostication.
Researchers analyzed decade of West Nile infections, weather, and housing data to identify optimal time for intervention. The study found that using a mosquito vector index can nip outbreaks in the bud, but late intervention may still be necessary if data are unavailable.
A new study reveals substantial bias in animal studies reporting, which may lead to misleading conclusions about potential treatments' effectiveness in humans. The researchers analyzed 160 meta-analyses of animal studies and found that over twice as many studies reached statistical significance than expected.
Researchers at Virginia Tech discovered a relic seawall in Bay Head, NJ, that played a crucial role in protecting homes from Hurricane Sandy's storm surges. The 1882 structure, buried beneath the beach, provided significant dampening of waves and prevented widespread destruction.
Children's eating habits are shaped by environmental factors such as parental behavior, peer groups, and exposure to varied menu items. Research suggests that children tend to prefer sweet and salty flavors, while healthy foods like fruits and vegetables are often overlooked.
Jason H. Moore, Professor at Dartmouth College, has been recognized for his expertise in translational bioinformatics and personalized medicine. He presented his research on Alzheimer's disease at the Third Indonesian-American Kavli Frontiers of Science Symposium.
Recent advances in melanoma research have put the deadly skin cancer at the forefront of cancer research, raising hopes that scientists and clinicians may have cornered the deadliest form of skin cancer. New diagnostic tools and targeted therapies are showing promise in blocking cancer-causing signaling pathways.
A new study finds that global sea levels could rise by more than 2 meters due to the melting of Greenland and Antarctic ice sheets. The research suggests that Antarctica will contribute half of this rise, while Greenland will add another quarter.
A team of international researchers has identified a self-perpetuating signaling circuit in connective tissue cells that allows them to form a front and back and propel themselves in a particular direction. This propulsion is similar to the movement used by tumor cells to invade healthy tissue during cancer metastasis.
Researchers developed statistical models to predict which drug is best for a specific individual with a specific disease, considering pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, and genetic factors. The framework will help doctors and pharmacists simulate variables like protein-protein interactions and predict treatment effectiveness.
Researchers have developed a novel protocol for detecting basil downy mildew, enabling early identification and facilitating timely disease control. The method uses Visikol, a proprietary solution that replaces chloral hydrate, allowing for quick detection using a hand magnifying glass.
Researchers have developed artificial peroxisomes that mimic natural organelles, transforming toxic free radicals into water and oxygen. This innovation enables direct cellular targeting, paving the way for novel patient-oriented treatments.
Researchers at Michigan State University found a link between the prefrontal cortex and learning and behavioral deficits in mice with mental illness genes. This study suggests targeting specific brain-behavior mechanisms may alleviate cognitive and motivational symptoms.
Researchers at McGill University have found that cranberry derivatives can inhibit bacteria from sticking to surfaces, potentially preventing infections in medical devices such as catheters. The study's findings also suggest that cranberries may play a role in preventing chronic infections, which are a major public health concern.
Researchers from the University of Alberta have developed a test to detect pathogenic E. coli in meat at food processing facilities, improving safety and reducing costs. The device is easy to use and can provide results in under an hour, making it an exciting application for the food industry.
Research from the University of Warwick found that most very preterm and low birthweight infants were securely attached to their parents. However, they had a higher risk for disorganised attachment due to underlying neurological abnormalities. This contradicts the assumption that disorganised attachment is solely linked to parental sen...
A study at WashU Medicine distinguished between viral and bacterial infections in children with fever using gene profiling, achieving a 90% accuracy rate. This new method could help identify the cause of illness and ensure targeted treatment.
New research suggests that a father's obesity can lead to obesity and diabetes-like symptoms in his children and grandchildren. The study found molecular signals in the sperm of obese fathers can program embryos for obesity or metabolic disease later in life.
Mercedes Richards, a professor at Penn State University, is being recognized for her groundbreaking research on interacting binary stars. She uses computer models and movies to illustrate how these stars interact, and has made both 2D and 3D images of the gravitational flow of gas between stars in any interacting binary-star system. Ri...
Researchers at Boston College and Nagoya University have synthesized the first example of a new form of carbon, grossly warped graphene, which alters its physical, optical and electronic properties. The new material consists of multiple identical pieces of warped graphene with exactly 80 carbon atoms joined together in a network of 26 ...
Gay men are more than 15 times as likely to develop genital cancer as straight men due to HPV infection. Targeted vaccination is recommended for those aged up to 26 years, with sexual health clinics ideal for offering the vaccine.
Biologists discovered that female túngara frogs can be tricked into perceiving an unattractive call as attractive when a robotic frog adds a delayed visual cue. This study demonstrates how evolution may create complex traits by combining simpler ones, similar to how adding white noise improves human perception of sounds.
Scientists have developed a new technique to calculate wind speeds of hurricanes using distorted GPS satellite signals, providing valuable information at little additional cost. The method offers a broader view of wind speeds than traditional dropsonde measurements, which are expensive and only available over large bodies of water.
A new study found that early spatial reasoning skills at age 13 predict creative and innovative achievements, especially in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) domains. This unique skill contributes to the development of new knowledge and innovation above traditional measures of mathematical and verbal ability.
A new study found a positive link between diet high in sugar and fat and an increased risk of colorectal cancer. Researchers identified new dietary risk factors, including fizzy drinks, cakes, and high-energy snack foods, that were associated with an increased risk of bowel cancer.
The new GOES-R series of satellites will offer enhanced imaging capabilities, providing full-disk images every five minutes. This increased resolution and frequency will enable more timely and accurate weather forecasting in the Western Hemisphere.
Researchers found that temporal characteristics, particularly bursts of activation events, significantly impact diffusion processes. This new understanding can help build more accurate metrics for analyzing real-world network data.
Researchers have visualized the mechanism of mRNA localization in cells, revealing how a unique 'zip code' signal ensures protein production at the right place and time. The study provides new insights into cellular function and has potential applications for understanding diseases such as spinal muscular atrophy and Alzheimer's.
A new study shows that everolimus dramatically reduces seizures in patients with tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC), a genetic disease characterized by benign tumors on multiple organ systems. The drug also improves overall quality of life, with significant reductions in seizure frequency and duration.
A recent study published in Nature Communications has shed light on the genetic adaptations of the ground tit, a small bird thriving in one of the most hostile environments on earth. The research reveals key modifications in its genome that enable it to cope with extreme living conditions and survival strategies.
A clinical trial found that music significantly reduced children's reported pain and distress during IV procedures. The study also showed improved satisfaction levels for parents and healthcare providers. Researchers hope to continue exploring the benefits of music as a distraction from pain.
Scientists have observed magnetic reconnection at the heart of solar flares and coronal mass ejections, which can affect satellites near Earth. The high-quality data from NASA's SDO and RHESSI spacecraft reveals a complex process involving charged particles, magnetic field lines, and plasma.
Research shows that phytoplankton form concentrated patches in turbulent ocean water, counterintuitive to expectations of uniform distribution. This phenomenon, known as 'turbulent un-mixing,' helps phytoplankton find cells of the same species without sensory information.
A recent study published in the American Heart Association journal found that elevated blood pressure rates rose by 27% in children and adolescents over a 13-year period. The research highlights the link between high body mass, larger waistlines, and excessive sodium intake as contributing factors to this trend.
Scientists are facing a digital bottleneck in assembling genetic data, which is being produced at an unprecedented rate. Computing solutions are needed to address this issue, including clever algorithms and harnessing more computing power. The article highlights the need for innovative solutions to overcome this challenge.
A new study suggests that using free market platforms to combat climate change can be as effective as mandatory emissions cap and trade schemes. Researchers monitored the European Climate Exchange and found it efficient in reducing carbon emissions.
Researchers have characterised new sequences of endogenous retroviruses in polar bears and pandas, dating back 45 million years. The viruses are suspected to play a role in human diseases such as cancer and neurodegenerative disorders.
Scientists have solved a key piece of the puzzle on how BRCA1 gene mutations predispose women to breast and ovarian cancers. The answer lies in the way estrogen rushes in to rescue damaged cells whose healthy functioning has been altered by oxidative stress.
Researchers found that female motivation to help offspring and attractiveness significantly influence the outcome of intersexual conflicts in wild bonobos. Attractive females are more likely to win conflicts against males, with males displaying reduced aggression during times of elevated fecundity.
A recent study by the University of Edinburgh found significant ethnic differences in hospitalizations for mental health problems in Scotland. The researchers suggest that psychiatric and mental health services should be reviewed to address these disparities and ensure early access to treatment for minority groups.
A study published in Neural Regeneration Research found that paeonol, a natural compound, attenuates inflammation-mediated neurotoxicity and microglial activation. This suggests that paeonol may be effective in treating neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's.
Researchers have identified a gene that enables Jatropha, a potential biofuel plant, to withstand drought. The study found that the JcPIP1 gene plays a crucial role in recovery from damage, while JcPIP2 may help prevent drought stress.
Dr. Valentin Fuster received the 2013 SCCT Arthur S. Agatston Cardiovascular Disease Prevention Award for his groundbreaking work on atherosclerosis development and prevention of coronary artery disease. The award honors Dr. Fuster's pioneering efforts in uncovering the molecular and cellular bases of atherosclerosis.
A University of Missouri researcher has developed an intervention to help adults with hearing impairments acclimate to hearing aids. The intervention aims to reduce the stigma associated with wearing hearing aids and increase their use among this population.
A study published in Journal of Marriage and Family found that flexible working schemes like ROWE led to increased schedule control for mothers, but did not change the actual amount of time spent with children. Mothers reported eating one additional family meal with their children compared to those in traditional departments.
Research found that JNK3 expression is downregulated after traumatic brain injury, which may be associated with apoptosis of nerve cells. This downregulation could promote the recovery of neurological function following traumatic brain injury.