Columbia University has been awarded a $31 million NIH grant to create the Center for Excellence for Translational Research at Columbia's CII. The center will bring together researchers from diverse fields to develop insights into disease mechanisms and methods for detecting infectious agents.
Recent years have seen progress in ASD research, with updates on genetic causes, effective treatments, and promoting success for young people with ASD entering college. The special issue of Harvard Review of Psychiatry highlights six key areas of research.
Studies show that when participants experience an 'out-of-body' illusion, their memories are fragmented and stored improperly. The research suggests a close relationship between body experience and memory, with implications for understanding psychiatric conditions such as PTSD and schizophrenia.
Researchers have developed a novel treatment strategy that targets transplanted tissue, allowing over 70% of mice to accept transplants without lifelong immunosuppressive drugs. The approach also shows promise in treating autoimmune diseases like type 1 diabetes.
Researchers uncover an entire network of cellular helpers to mitigate damage, identifying new regulatory mechanisms for the heat shock response. The study's findings may also offer insights into neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's.
A computer system called SIMULFIS was developed to simulate the behavior of tax evaders, incorporating conditions such as fairness and social influence. The study found that improving tax inspections is a more effective measure against tax evasion than increasing fines.
A recent study by the University of Gothenburg found that men with poorer cardiovascular fitness and/or lower IQ at age 18 are more likely to develop early-onset dementia before age 60. This increased risk remains even when controlled for other factors, highlighting the importance of physical exercise in maintaining cognitive health.
Researchers found that several chemotherapy drugs cause hyper proliferation in stem cells, leading to tumor recurrence. The study used fruit flies as a model, discovering compounds that inhibit tumors without causing this side effect.
A national survey of primary care physicians found they often experience uncertainty in ordering and interpreting clinical laboratory tests, with missing results and confusing report formats being major challenges. Physicians reported that improved electronic decision-support tools and access to lab personnel would help reduce this unc...
Researchers identified a microbe that can take up electrons from minerals in soil and sediment using natural conductivity. The microbes rely on sunlight and iron to generate energy, but have developed an unusual strategy to reach the iron through naturally occurring conductive minerals.
Chronic smokers have altered emotional reactions when exposed to negative and positive images associated with tobacco. They are more aroused by positive images and affected by aversive non-smoking related images than by images of specific negative consequences.
A recent study by UCLA scientists and colleagues reveals that UV light significantly enhances the ability of melanoma cells to creep along the outside of blood vessels, leading to increased metastasis. The research demonstrates that exposure to UV radiation triggers inflammation, attracting immune cells that promote this process.
Carlo Di Castro reflects on the development of theoretical condensed matter physics in Rome, highlighting key areas like superfluid helium, quantum systems, and high-temperature superconductors. He shares personal anecdotes about his research policy experiences and the evolution of his field.
The 2014 Harold M. Weintraub Graduate Student Award winners were selected based on the quality, originality and significance of their research. The award recipients will participate in a scientific symposium at Fred Hutch, presenting their work to the public.
Researchers found that transient brain ischemia induces hyperphosphorylation of tau protein and alters its interaction with glycogen synthase kinase (GSK)-3β and protein phosphatase 2A. Lithium chloride's neuroprotective function may depend on regulating tau phosphorylation during cerebral ischemia.
Girls born unexpectedly small or underweight may face fertility problems in adulthood, research suggests. Analysis of 1206 Swedish women found those with female infertility causes were almost 2.5 times more likely to have been underweight at birth.
A new study by UBC researchers found that cold-blooded animals worldwide have similar heat tolerance limits, with tropical species relying on behavioral thermoregulation. The authors recommend protecting migration corridors and habitats that provide shade, especially in the tropics.
Research found azithromycin and levofloxacin therapies associated with higher mortality risks compared to amoxicillin. Levofloxacin use also linked to increased serious arrhythmia risk. Only one quarter of primary care patients with mild cognitive impairment progress to dementia within three years, according to study.
Scientists identified a broadly neutralizing HIV-1 antibody in a lupus patient, which could be used to target rapidly mutating viruses. Researchers also developed a workflow to evaluate protein turnover kinetics, revealing previously unknown alterations in disease development.
Researchers used innovative tools to detect a previously unknown gene mutation and initiate personalized drug treatment for a boy with uncontrollable seizures. Memantine was shown to have an effect in reducing seizure activity.
Research suggests that drinking alcohol during early pregnancy may heighten the risk of premature birth and low birth weight, with even moderate consumption increasing the likelihood of these outcomes. Women from more affluent backgrounds were found to be more likely to drink excessively.
Research reveals disparate fertilizer and irrigation practices among different age groups, socioeconomic statuses, and climates in urban, suburban and rural areas. The study found that lawncare varies more within a city than expected, suggesting that one sustainability message may not fit all.
Scientists from Brandeis University and the University of Pittsburgh validate Alan Turing's theory of morphogenesis, demonstrating that identical cell-like structures can differentiate into various patterns through intercellular reaction-diffusion. The research has implications for biological development, materials science, and soft ro...
A new blood test detects specific genes activated in individuals with obstructive coronary artery disease (CAD), excluding diagnosis without imaging studies. This approach reduces healthcare costs and may improve patient outcomes by minimizing invasive tests.
Research suggests that natural selection has altered European appearance over the past 5,000 years, with ancient DNA revealing darker skin, hair, and eye pigmentation. This phenomenon is comparable to other examples of adaptive evolution, such as malaria resistance and lactase persistence.
A recent study using ancient tree rings reveals that the Mongol Empire's rapid expansion was facilitated by a period of unusually mild and wet weather in central Asia. The findings suggest that this favorable climate allowed for increased grass production, which in turn enabled the Mongols to build their powerful horse-riding army.
A new glycoprofiling test has been developed to halve the number of false-positives in ovarian cancer diagnoses, sparing women from unnecessary worry and further testing. The test targets a specific sugar molecule on the CA125 protein, which is only present in women with ovarian cancer.
A recent UK study found that children in London eat an unhealthy amount of salt on a daily basis, with cereal- and bread-based products accounting for over a third of their diets. The study's results highlight the need for increased efforts to reduce salt intake in foods, particularly among teens.
University of Houston researchers create a system to diagnose diseases in real time using smartphones and $20 lens attachments. The device uses gold nanoholes to detect chemical interactions between disease-causing agents and antibodies, providing quick and affordable readouts.
Researchers have developed a simple yet elegant solution to analyze large amounts of soil DNA data, reducing computational requirements by up to 200-fold. This breakthrough enables scientists to extract more science from the noise, paving the way for new discoveries in fields like agriculture and carbon cycling.
Researchers at the University of Montreal have identified potential markers for dementia in Parkinson's disease patients with mild cognitive impairments. These markers include thinning in certain cortical areas and subcortical atrophy in grey matter, which may serve as a warning sign for developing dementia.
Research from Umeå University and Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center found that frequent PSA testing in areas with high incidence rates results in lower prostate cancer mortality. However, this is offset by increased risk of overtreatment, which can lead to side effects such as erectile dysfunction and urinary incontinence.
Researchers at Caltech have developed a silicon chip that can bend light waves electronically, eliminating the need for bulky optics. This technology allows for rapid image projection with a single laser diode and no mechanically moving parts.
Researchers at Boston College manipulate a compound of strontium, iridium and oxygen into the metallic regime by substituting ruthenium metal ions. Scanning tunneling microscopy reveals the emergence of charge carriers, forming minute metallic puddles that coalesce to form a metal across which charges freely flow.
The team is determining the long-term fate of chemicals in drinking water distribution systems and the environment. They are also evaluating interactions between MCHM and plastic pipes and epoxy liners, which will help determine long-term remediation measures.
A team of researchers from Ben-Gurion University has identified a severe genetic disease affecting Moroccan Jews, characterized by brain atrophy and mental retardation. The disease, PCCA2, is caused by two mutations in the VPS53 gene and can be eradicated through carrier testing.
A team of researchers at the University of Pennsylvania has used mathematical modeling to better understand the mechanisms involved in traumatic brain injuries. Their findings reveal that rapid impacts can cause permanent damage due to the rate of stretching, not just the force applied.
A new clinical study found that erlotinib significantly improved treatment outcomes for women with locally advanced cervical cancer. After two years, 91.7% of patients were alive and experienced no disease progression.
Research by the USDA Forest Service finds that woodland salamander predation on invertebrates increases litter retention and carbon capture. The study, led by Dr. Hartwell Welsh Jr., suggests that these small animals play a significant role in regulating forest ecosystems.
University of Washington researchers develop two-dimensional, flexible semiconductors to build the thinnest-known LED, only three atoms thick yet mechanically strong. The LED can be used in a wide range of applications, including lighting and optical communication, offering high energy efficiency and miniaturization possibilities.
Sentinel node biopsy has significantly improved 10-year disease-free survival rates and melanoma-free survival for melanoma patients, reducing the need for extensive lymph node surgery. The procedure has become a worldwide standard in diagnosing melanoma, thanks to Moffitt Cancer Center's pioneering role in its development and teaching.
UTSA College of Sciences faculty Andrew Tsin, Garry Cole, and Donald Kurtz were honored as AAAS Fellows for their groundbreaking research contributions. Tsin received the 2013 AAAS Mentor Award for Lifetime Achievement in promoting Hispanic American doctorates.
A pilot study from Stanford Medicine found no significant difference in digestive issues between consuming raw milk and pasteurized milk among lactose-intolerant participants. The study tested 16 participants with the highest levels of lactose intolerance, but results showed no improvement in symptoms when switching to raw milk.
Researchers found that high sodium concentrations in the soil lead to instability and increased erosion in Tuscany's Crete Senesi badlands. The presence of vegetation helps stabilize the ground, but agricultural use is eroding the landscape, threatening its disappearance in 35-40 years.
Patients who received assistance from poison centers had shorter hospital stays and lower hospital charges. The study found a cumulative decrease of $2,078 in hospital charges per 10 patients.
A midlife healthy diet was found to reduce dementia risk by almost 90% compared to the least healthy diet. Higher intake of saturated fats linked to poorer cognitive functions and increased risk of dementia.
Tropical Cyclone Lusi has become better organized, with strong thunderstorms surrounding its center. The storm is expected to weaken due to cooler waters and increasing vertical wind shear.
A study published in BMJ found that pregnant women who followed a 'prudent' diet pattern had a 15% lower risk of preterm delivery compared to those with an unhealthy diet. The researchers analyzed data from over 10,000 women and controlled for other known risk factors.
The USPSTF published its final recommendation statement on primary care interventions to prevent or reduce illicit drug and nonmedical pharmaceutical use in children and adolescents. Nearly one in 10 American adolescents use illegal drugs, with serious health consequences.
Researchers at Chalmers University of Technology developed a new treatment method for phantom limb pain, using muscle signals from the amputated arm stump to drive an augmented reality system. The patient experienced drastically reduced pain and was no longer awakened by intense periods of pain at night.
The book provides a three-step process to help readers solve relationship issues in their own way, without the need for face-to-face therapy. By understanding their partner's perspective and accepting each other's flaws, couples can achieve lasting change through acceptance and specific changes.
Prey animals adopt garish colors to live long and prosper, even if they aren't poisonous. The evolutionary benefit of mimicry works, with predators reacting to the impersonations and avoiding eating the imposters. This study used evolving populations of digital organisms in a virtual world called Avida.
The gut microbiota's complex relationships with different microorganisms contribute to both health and disease, according to recent advances in DNA sequencing technology. Non-bacterial microbes like viruses and meiofauna also play a crucial role in shaping the gut ecosystem.
Tropical Cyclone Gillian made its first landfall in the northwestern coast of the York Peninsula, while Tropical Cyclone Hadi lingered off the eastern coast. Gillian is expected to re-emerge in the Gulf of Carpentaria and make a second landfall near the Northern Territory/Queensland border.
A University of Illinois study found that mothers participating in a vocational training program gained a network of peers, leading to increased bargaining strength and improved children's consumption of rice and dairy. The program empowered women, allowing them to exert more say over household resources.
A study by the University of Miami found that attributes such as physical attractiveness, personality, and grooming are associated with a greater probability of entering into a marital relationship. However, these traits do not collectively have a significant influence on forming a romantic cohabitating relationship.
The study found cocaine use dropped sharply across the US from 2006 to 2010, while marijuana consumption increased significantly during the same period. Researchers also estimated that Americans spent over $100 billion annually on illicit drugs between 2000 and 2010.
A Phase 1 clinical trial of mecasermin (rh-IGF-1) in girls with Rett syndrome demonstrated the treatment's safety and efficacy in ameliorating certain symptoms. The study suggests that IGF-1 could be a potential treatment for Rett Syndrome, paving the way for further research and possible FDA approval.
The open access journal Colloid and Interface Science Communications provides an innovative channel for publishing short initial reports on new fundamental concepts, research findings, and topical applications. The journal covers topics such as nanomaterials, energy production and storage, biotechnologies, and pharmaceutical products.
Researchers have developed a toolkit of genes and hardware using colored lights and engineered bacteria to test and debug genetic circuits. By varying the timing and intensity of lights, they can control exactly when and how much different genes are expressed.