Researchers infected ferrets and pigs with the human-derived H7N9 virus, showing that both species can be infected and transmit the virus. While transmission was more efficient in ferrets, the study highlights potential public health implications of the avian virus.
The West coast log and lumber exports from the United States decreased in the first quarter of 2013, with log exports dropping 33% to $297 million. Meanwhile, total US log exports increased by 11%, while total US lumber exports also rose by 2%.
A new study found that children and adolescents with seizures involving the temporal lobe are at risk for clinically significant behavioral problems and psychiatric illness, especially depression. Routine psychiatric evaluation is crucial before epilepsy surgery to improve quality of life.
Researchers suggest focusing on boosting natural killer cells to better eliminate influenza virus, potentially overcoming drug resistance issues. Current drugs can boost NK cell activity, improving flu recovery without mutating strain susceptibility.
Researchers at UEA have made a breakthrough in breast cancer research showing that an enzyme called MMP-8 could be acting as a locator to the immune system, which then becomes activated to attack tumors. The findings suggest that this enzyme may help explain why some patients with breast tumors experience better outcomes.
Despite improvements, one-third of advanced heart failure patients don't survive three years. The study found decreased mortality and sudden cardiac death rates, but patient mortality from progressive heart failure increased.
Scientists at Emory Vaccine Center found that IL-21 is necessary for long-lasting antibody responses in mice against viral infections. The molecule stimulates germinal centers and supports T helper cells, leading to the generation of virus-specific long-lived plasma cells.
Researchers used a revolutionary X-ray laser to freeze the motion of atoms in gold nanocrystals, revealing unusual supersonic vibrations. The new images support theoretical models for light interaction with metals and have potential applications in understanding material response after perturbation.
EPFL scientists have identified the molecular basis behind sulfonamide antibiotics' neurological side effects, which can include nausea, hallucinations, and psychosis. By understanding how sulfonamides interact with a patient's nervous system, doctors may be able to customize therapeutic regimes to minimize these side effects.
A population-based study suggests that high-potency statins like atorvastatin and rosuvastatin increase the risk of developing new-onset diabetes. In contrast, fluvastatin and lovastatin appear to have a lower risk. Researchers recommend considering individual patient risk when prescribing statins.
The HERCULES Center at Emory University will investigate the impact of environmental exposures on human health. The center, funded by the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, aims to promote a holistic understanding of the human exposome and its effects on complex disorders such as autism, asthma, and Alzheimer's disease.
A new imaging technique developed by Jean Gotman and his colleagues combines electroencephalogram (EEG) and functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) to more precisely localize the areas generating epileptic seizures. This allows neurosurgeons to better understand the optimal ways of intervention for patients with epilepsy.
A new study found that individuals whose brains are better at automatically suppressing background motion perform better on standard measures of intelligence. The test, which measures the brain's unconscious ability to filter out visual movement, shows a strong correlation with IQ scores.
Researchers found that EGFR gummed up the cell's miRNA-processing machinery, preventing tumor-suppressing microRNAs from developing. The epidermal growth factor receptor, known to promote cancer progression, fuels this effect by attaching phosphate groups to a key protein, disrupting its ability to process miRNAs.
The Institute of Medicine recommends a Whole-of-School approach to strengthen physical activity in schools. This approach targets physical education, active commuting and other opportunities to help children meet the recommended 60 minutes of daily vigorous or moderate intensity physical activity.
Pacific Northwest National Laboratory honored 165 staff for their intellectual property creations, including Inventor of the Year Jun Liu for his battery materials work. Liu's innovations have potential to create IP, with four U.S. patents and 300 peer-reviewed journal articles to his name.
The newly reported technique can greatly speed the process of discovering therapeutic antibodies with desired biological effects. The team discovered an antibody that potently mimics thrombopoietin, a hormone essential for blood clotting.
A new liposomal formulation of anthracycline-based chemotherapy has shown promising results in treating pediatric leukemia patients, with high survival rates and minimal heart toxicity. The treatment regimen was found to be effective at higher-than-standard doses without causing added cardiotoxicity.
Research confirms memory problems are a real symptom of menopause, exacerbated by hot flashes and negative emotions. Women experiencing more severe symptoms struggled with memory retention.
A new metal-organic framework (MOF) material has been developed to separate the highest-octane components of gasoline, potentially making petroleum refining cheaper and more efficient. The MOF selectively traps lower-octane isomers, allowing for a more efficient separation process.
Researchers at Salk Institute discover that protein TGF-β can promote cancer growth and survival in premalignant cells, offering hope for new treatment methods. The study's findings suggest that novel treatments may be able to halt cancer development in these cells.
A recent study found that nearly four out of ten medical students harbor unconscious biases against obese individuals, affecting clinical care and patient relationships. Medical schools are urged to incorporate bias training into their curricula to mitigate this issue.
A team of astronomers has solved a decade-old puzzle by accurately measuring the distance to star system SS Cygni at 372 light years. The team used radio telescopes and coordinated with amateur astronomers to pinpoint the exact location of the system, confirming their understanding of exotic objects like black holes.
Researchers found that caregivers experience lower care-related stressors and more positive events when their dementia patients attend adult day services. This reduces anger and decreases the impact of non-care stressors on depressive symptoms, demonstrating a buffering effect of adult day services on caregiver well-being.
A recent study found that anxious men experience significantly greater impairments from anxiety during job interviews compared to women. The researchers suggest that societal stereotypes and expectations may contribute to this disparity. Strategies for reducing interview anxiety, such as preparation and practice, are also discussed.
A new technique using primate tooth analysis has been applied to Neanderthal fossils, revealing that Neanderthal babies were weaned around 7 months old, similar to modern human infants. This method provides a precise estimate of the timing of weaning in extinct species.
A bacterium discovered in the Canadian High Arctic can survive at –15°C, the coldest temperature ever recorded for bacterial growth. This microbe adapts to extreme conditions by modifying its cell structure and producing molecular antifreeze, providing insights into the possibility of life on Mars.
A study from Western University has identified the Numb-p53 pathway as a key mechanism underlying chemotherapy resistance in triple-negative breast cancer. By targeting this pathway, researchers hope to develop novel therapies that can sensitize cancer cells to chemotherapy.
Researchers have identified a new gene in the jasmonate pathway that controls plant defenses without affecting growth. This finding could lead to improved crop resistance in agriculture by manipulating the jasmonate signaling pathway.
Soldiers at risk of PTSD if public support for war is low, social validation shapes distress from killing. Narcissists woo women more easily, while virtuous people's happiness varies across cultures, influenced by antisocial punishment and geographical distance in politics.
Researchers found that aortic arch pulse wave velocity is a strong predictor of white matter hyperintensities, which are associated with accelerated cognitive decline and Alzheimer's disease. The study used MRI to measure aortic arch pulse wave velocity in 1,270 participants and found a significant association between the two variables.
Researchers found King Richard III in a hastily dug, lozenge-shaped grave under a Leicester car park, suggesting gravediggers were in a hurry to bury him. The grave was too short for the king's body, and his torso was crammed in, with evidence of hands being tied during burial.
Researchers discovered a regenerative process involving damaged nerve fibers in the spinal cord that can improve functional recovery after stroke. The study found significant improvement in voluntary movement in mice whose axons were not severed, suggesting potential treatment targets for enhancing neurological recovery.
A team of economists found that offering gift cards increased the likelihood of donating by 26-52%, and even motivated people to donate for the first time. The authors argue that such incentives can help address blood shortages, particularly in low-income countries where donations are scarce.
Researchers from Syracuse University argue that the Earth's mantle plays a significant role in shaping the coastline and estimating long-term sea-level rise. The team's findings suggest that the shoreline has been uplifted by over 210 feet, indicating less ice melting than expected.
The Lotus Valve System demonstrated successful valve implantation in all 60 patients, meeting the primary device performance endpoint. The rate of moderate or greater aortic regurgitation decreased significantly, while mortality rates remained low.
A study found that individuals with chronic kidney disease who have a heart-healthy lifestyle are less likely to develop kidney failure. Those with four ideal factors for life's simple 7 tool had nearly half their risk cut, while those with five ideal factors didn't develop kidney failure.
The Ring Nebula's true shape has been revealed by NASA's Hubble Space Telescope, showing a more complex structure than previously thought. The new observations have allowed researchers to construct the most precise 3-D model of the nebula, revealing details such as a blue, football-shaped structure and dark, irregular knots of dense gas.
Researchers have developed a flat spray-on material that can act as a flat lens, allowing for arbitrary aperture sizes and potentially revolutionizing imaging devices. The technology has significant advancements in ultraviolet light imaging of biological specimens.
Researchers at University of Illinois developed a cradle that uses iPhone's built-in camera and processing power as a biosensor to detect toxins, proteins, bacteria, viruses and other molecules. The device can perform on-the-spot tests for environmental toxins, medical diagnostics and food safety.
Researchers used next-generation sequencing to analyze DNA alterations in adjacent Gleason patterns of the same tumor. The study found that some aggressive prostate cancers have identical genetic markers, enabling better prediction of cancer progression and management.
People with high IQ scores have more selective visual perception, discriminating between small moving objects and larger background motions. This ability helps them efficiently process information in a world filled with distractions.
Researchers at UC Irvine have discovered a new mechanism by which estrogen suppresses lipid synthesis in the liver, revealing potential new approaches for treating certain liver diseases. The study found that estrogen acts on cell membrane-based receptors to inhibit lipid synthesis, changing long-held views in the field.
Despite promising initial results, a breakthrough treatment for Alzheimer's disease did not show any reduction in plaque burden after extensive testing. Three independent research groups failed to confirm the efficacy of bexarotene in reversing beta amyloid plaques.
Physicists at ETH Zurich have developed a new device that uses laser beams and atoms to emulate magnetic materials, enabling the study of exotic forms of magnetism. The approach promises groundbreaking insights into the properties of magnetic materials.
A recent fish study has identified a key hormone that enables zebrafish to replace damaged motor neurons, which could aid research into neurodegenerative diseases like ALS. This discovery also sheds light on the development of motor neurons in human embryonic stem cells.
A cross-sectional study found that bicycle helmet laws significantly reduced the risk of death and injury for children under 16 involved in bicycle-motor vehicle collisions. The study showed a 20% lower fatality rate in states with helmet laws, with an average annual reduction of 900 fatalities.
A University of Alberta physicist collaborated with amateur astronomers to confirm the periodic bursts of light from a binary star, SS Cygni, 370 light years away. The team re-examined an established theory and confirmed its accuracy using data from ground-based radio telescopes and optical observations.
The Lancet Series on transfusion medicine examines the use of restrictive transfusion practices, innovative solutions to address the growing demand for blood products, and alternative ways to manage the blood supply. The series aims to reduce unnecessary blood transfusions, improve patient safety, and cut costs.
Researchers will develop procedures to help underinsured people efficiently get care for common health problems. The study aims to identify and address barriers to accessing care, prioritizing care access strategies based on patient experiences.
Dr. Peter Williamson's research reveals distinct neural networks affected by different psychiatric diseases, including schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and depression. The study uses advanced imaging techniques to uncover differences between patients and healthy individuals.
A large cross-sectional study found that adults, adolescents, and parents of school-age children consistently underestimate the calorie content of their meals, especially large ones. The researchers suggest that menu labelling requirements and social marketing campaigns could help correct this underestimation.
Researchers at Pitt Public Health have found that an anti-cancer drug, bexarotene, significantly improves cognitive deficits in mice with Alzheimer's gene mutations. The study suggests a possible new therapeutic treatment for Alzheimer's disease, although the exact mechanism of action remains unclear.
Scientists at Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München discovered a mechanism that allows chromosomal DNA to be locally displaced from nucleosomes for transcription. The FACT complex interacts with histone subunits and detaches stretches of packaged DNA from the nucleosome core, releasing it from its tight wrapping.
Researchers at Norwich BioScience Institutes have developed a new method to breed GM tomatoes with enhanced flavor, health, and shelf life. By introducing a specific compound, they were able to prolong the lives of cancer-prone mice and extend the average shelf life from 21 days to 48 days.
Researchers found that an anti-cancer drug, bexarotene, did not reduce amyloid plaques in the brains of mice, despite initial claims of its effectiveness in reversing Alzheimer's-like symptoms. The study suggests that further research is needed to understand the nuances of this potential treatment.
Researchers at the University of Montreal have discovered how rapamycin prevents cells from dividing, potentially slowing cancer progression and other diseases of abnormal growth. The study reveals that TOR sends a signal to shut down B cyclin production through an intermediary protein.
Defects in cellular trash removal processes lead to toxic protein build-up and neuronal damage in Gaucher disease, mirroring Parkinson's disease pathology. Researchers suggest targeting mitochondrial function to develop treatment strategies for both diseases.
Researchers found that white tigers owe their color to a variant of the SLC45A2 gene. This discovery may lead to reintroduction of white tigers into their wild habitat.
Researchers at North Carolina State University discovered the neural mechanism behind cockroach aversion to glucose in roach baits. This genetic trait helps roaches reject baits made with glucose, a common ingredient in roach-bait poison.
Scientists at NIH report discovering a small molecule, natriuretic polypeptide b (Nppb), that streams ahead and selectively plugs into a specific nerve cell in the spinal cord, triggering the sensation of itch. In mice with Nppb-deficient neurons, itching was significantly reduced.
Wayne State University has received a second year of funding from the New Economy Initiative to expand its Technology Commercialization Office's efforts. The university will use the grant to enhance marketing tools and licensing staff, increasing the availability of WSU intellectual property assets to industry and venture capital.
A team of researchers used radio telescopes to precisely locate SS Cygni at 370 light-years from Earth, resolving a major problem in understanding the star's regular outbursts. The new distance measurement brings the system into line with standard explanations for similar systems.
Researchers discovered neurons employ distinct Caspase mechanisms for axon pruning and apoptosis, providing insights into neurological disorders. The study's findings shed light on the processes underlying neurodevelopmental disorders like schizophrenia and autism.
A study has shown that H7N9 can be transmitted efficiently when animals are in close contact, such as touching, coughing, and exchanging bodily fluids. The transmission of the virus was found to be reduced if cages were well spaced, indicating that airborne transmission is not a high risk for H7N9.
A 2.5-year-old boy with severe brain damage was treated with autologous cord blood and showed significant improvement in symptoms, including learning to speak simple sentences and move. The treatment's effectiveness has sparked hope for alternative therapies for infantile cerebral palsy.
Researchers at Lund University have prevented early symptoms of Huntington's disease, depression, and anxiety in mice by deactivating the mutated huntingtin protein. This discovery is a major breakthrough and may lead to more accurate treatments for this debilitating disease.
Researchers recommend against testing bexarotene on patients due to inconsistent results in various animal test models. The study highlights the importance of rigorous scientific evaluation and reproducibility.
A new microsphere-based detection system uses multiple antibodies at once for early HIV detection and vaccine efficacy assessment. The novel multiplex immunoassay approach significantly improves sensitivity over standard ELISA techniques.
Researchers developed a new laboratory method to detect and measure the mechanics of single-molecule interactions, revealing a well-defined 'quantum of force' required to activate cell adhesion. The findings have broad applications for research into stem cells, cancer, infectious disease, and immunology.
Researchers found that Africans develop type-2 diabetes through increased insulin resistance, while East Asians develop it through lower insulin-secretion ability. This understanding could lead to more targeted therapies for the disease.
A Wayne State University researcher found that affective commitment, or feeling loyal and proud of an organization, is the most desirable type. The study also showed that continuing commitment, driven by salary and benefits, can lead to employees staying too long due to high costs.
Researchers have captured conclusive images of green alga consuming bacteria, providing evidence for a critical step in the evolution of photosynthetic algae and land plants. The discovery sheds light on an early evolutionary event that fundamentally changed the trajectory of plant and animal evolution.
Researchers from UW-Milwaukee and University of York investigate ultra-thin films of new materials, aiming to create a materials platform for quantum computers. The team found that the unique properties of topological insulators can be modified by intrinsic defects, opening up new possibilities for spintronics.
A study reveals a unique form of childhood asthma connected to impaired sphingolipid synthesis, bypassing typical allergen and inflammation pathways. This discovery may lead to precision medicine approaches for treatment.
Researchers have identified a new compound class that promotes neuroblastoma cell differentiation, which can stop tumor cells from dividing and growing. This breakthrough could lead to the development of novel treatments for high-risk childhood cancer.
Researchers discovered that discarded immune cells stimulate the release of hematopoietic stem cells from the bone marrow into the bloodstream. This process is regulated by the daily elimination of neutrophils and follows a circadian cycle, which could have implications for cardiovascular health.
A recent study by Arizona State University researchers found that reforestation efforts in the Panama Canal watershed may not always increase water supply, but can enhance carbon sequestration and timber production. The research highlights the importance of understanding the spatial distribution of ecosystem services and their trade-offs.
A study by University of Toronto Mississauga researchers found that offering economic incentives such as gift cards increased blood donations without compromising safety. The study used field-based studies with larger samples and found that incentives like paid vacation days led to a significant rise in annual blood donations.