Researchers propose retroelement-based gene editing as a safer alternative to CRISPR-Cas systems due to reduced risk of DNA double strand breaks and unwanted chromosomal modifications. This approach leverages endogenous mobile genetic elements, which can be programmed for targeted genomic engineering without generating DSB.
A new UBC study found that people who use alternative health care tend to be wealthier, more open to novelty, and distrust conventional medicine. The study suggests that better advertising regulations are needed to protect Canadians from potential harm.
Researchers successfully produce full-length spider silk proteins using genetically modified silkworms, offering a sustainable alternative to synthetic commercial fibers. The production of spider silk fibers is six times tougher than Kevlar used in bulletproof vests.
Researchers at University of Chicago identified a new pain relief pathway in the brain that produces powerful analgesic effects without tolerance or addictive risks. Targeting acetylcholine receptors, particularly alpha-7, offers a promising path to developing non-opioid painkillers.
Researchers highlight single cell protein as a promising alternative protein source from microorganisms, which can thrive on diverse waste materials and enhance socio-economic sustainability. The review also emphasizes the need for consumer acceptance to effectively commercialize this eco-friendly protein source.
A Stanford study reveals how the meat and dairy industry lobbies governments to resist competition from alternative animal products, such as plant-based and lab-grown meat alternatives. The research found that governments consistently devote more funding to traditional livestock systems than sustainable alternatives.
Researchers discuss the potential of using ammonia as a hydrogen carrier for on-site power generation via ammonia decomposition. The high hydrogen content (17.6 wt%) and low toxicity make it an attractive alternative to traditional hydrogen storage methods, but challenges such as leakage and toxicity need to be addressed.
Researchers have discovered a novel pathway that minimizes liver injury during transplantation by activating the protective CEACAM1-S version. This protective characteristic is regulated by HIF-1α and can be enhanced using molecular tools and alternative gene splicing, reducing organ injury and improving post-transplant outcomes.
A study from Konstanz and Baltimore reveals that around 4.2 million animals have been used for hazard assessment under REACH, with many more expected due to a 2022 revision. Animal-free alternative methods are advocated by researchers, who argue that they provide more meaningful results than animal testing.
Alternative splicing expands the diversity of proteins and contributes to molecular pathology in neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and ALS. Dysregulation leads to aberrant protein production, affecting neuronal health and function.
Alternative gene splicing has been linked to an increased risk of alcohol use disorder (AUD), according to a recent study published in Molecular Psychiatry. The researchers identified 27 exon skipping events that may contribute to AUD risk, opening up new possibilities for finding new therapeutics.
Researchers at Carnegie Mellon University argue against granting rights to robots, instead suggesting a Confucian approach of assigning roles to promote teamwork and harmony. This alternative perspective recognizes the moral status of robots as entities capable of participating in rites and contributing to society.
A new study shows public acceptance of phage therapy is moderately high and can be increased through education. The study found that describing phage therapy in a more positive light increases its acceptance, while exposure to information about antibiotic resistance also plays a role.
Researchers developed a computational platform called IRIS to discover tumor antigens from alternative RNA splicing, expanding cancer immunotherapy targets. Hundreds of predicted TCR targets were found to be presented by human leukocyte antigen molecules.
A former professional football player's life-altering cognitive decline was reversed after a comprehensive assessment revealed signs of hydrocephalus, which could be treated. The case study highlights the importance of considering alternative explanations for cognitive decline in athletes.
New research reveals that expanded alternative licensure pathways can lead to attenuated pay for new elementary school teachers. The study found that districts hiring more than 50% of their new teachers through alternative routes experienced stagnating teacher pay after policy implementation.
The PROMISE II clinical trial showed that LimFlow therapy enabled 76% of patients to avoid amputation and experience wound healing. This minimally invasive procedure bypasses blocked arteries in the leg and rushes blood back into the foot through the veins, providing a unique alternative to major amputation.
Researchers at West Virginia University are exploring iodine-based thrusters as an alternative to traditional fuel sources, aiming to reduce dependence on rare noble gases. They plan to develop diagnostic technology to measure the performance of these thrusters, paving the way for widespread use in space exploration.
A study published in Nature Communications found no evidence for two alternative stable states in shallow lakes, contradicting the accepted theory. The research team recommends reducing nutrient inputs to ensure ecological equilibrium.
A new study finds that a combination of chemotherapy drugs performs better than BCG in preventing high-grade cancer recurrence in patients with non-muscle invasive bladder cancer. This alternative treatment has shown excellent safety and efficacy outcomes, providing a viable option for patients facing a shortage of standard care treatm...
Scientists discovered how alternative splicing enables the compensatory increase of MBNL2 protein in response to MBNL1 loss-of-function. This mechanism, found in animal models and potentially applicable to human patients, may help explain disease variability and offer new therapeutic avenues for Myotonic Dystrophy Type 1.
A new American Heart Association scientific statement highlights the potential benefits and risks of complementary and alternative therapies for heart failure. The statement advises healthcare professionals to discuss CAM use with patients, monitor medication interactions, and consider pharmacists' consultations.
A new study reveals that households using prepayment meters consume significantly fewer portions of fruit and vegetables compared to those on alternative payment methods. The researchers found a strong link between higher energy bills and lower consumption of essential nutrients, highlighting the 'heat-or-eat' dilemma.
Researchers at the University of Copenhagen develop a low-fat, more sustainable whipped cream alternative using lactic acid bacteria as building blocks. The bacteria-based foam can be whipped, peaks up, and retains liquid, making it a potential game-changer in the food industry.
Researchers discovered that FOXA1, a cancer-causing gene, regulates alternative splicing in prostate cancer, influencing disease relapse and patient survival. The study identified specific splice variants linked to cancer recurrence, which could serve as markers for disease relapse and potential drug targets.
Researchers discovered a protein LYSET that enables cancer cells to digest extracellular proteins as an alternative food source under nutrient starvation conditions. This finding provides insight into the molecular pathways underlying cancer cell adaptation and could lead to new therapeutic strategies.
A clinical trial evaluating alternative strategies for administering the JYNNEOS monkeypox vaccine has begun enrolling adult volunteers. The trial aims to expand the vaccine supply and provide important information on immunogenicity, safety, and tolerability of alternative dosing approaches.
New research warns that climate change is putting the availability of biomass fuels and technologies at risk, as temperatures rise and crop yields decrease. The study highlights the need for urgent action to reduce fossil fuels in favour of bioenergy and other renewables to avoid severe food shortages and accelerated climate change.
A new University of Rochester study compares two groups of patients with dental extractions, finding that a combination of non-opioid pain medications and gabapentin can minimize or eliminate opioids for dental pain. The results show promise for reducing opioid use during the COVID-19 pandemic.
A recent study published in Cancer Research identified a unique vulnerability in certain high-risk cancers that can be exploited for targeted therapy. Researchers found that cancer cells with alternative lengthening of telomeres (ALT) have a common weakness, leading to resistance to DNA-damaging agents and chemotherapy.
The US FDA is reassessing its need for animal tests in product development, exploring alternative methods that could improve efficacy and safety predictions. New technologies like microphysiological systems may replace traditional animal studies, enabling faster product approval.
A Singapore-based research team has created a systematic engineering approach for optimizing the production of 3D printed food inks with alternative proteins. The method uses Response Surface Methodology to minimize time and resources, resulting in visually appealing, flavorful, and nutritionally adequate foods enhanced with sustainabl...
Rensselaer researchers propose a sustainable alternative to lithium-ion batteries by using calcium ions. The new technology has shown promising results in terms of performance and cost efficiency.
A combination of gemcitabine and docetaxel shows excellent outcomes in patients with high-risk non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer. The 'Gem/Doce' therapy provides a safe and effective alternative to BCG treatment, resulting in high response rates and good tolerability.
A new study suggests that reducing sugar consumption through sugar taxation policies can have significant environmental, social, and economic benefits. Redirecting existing sugar cropland to alternative uses like biofuel production could lead to emissions reductions of up to 54.3 MtCO2e per year.
Researchers developed a first-of-its-kind sprayable coating that repels viruses and bacteria through an air-filled barrier and kills pathogens with microscopic materials. The coating provides a permanent surface layer proven to protect surfaces from contamination by viruses, offering a safer alternative to existing disinfectants.
Researchers identified Srrm3 as a master regulator gene for photoreceptor cells in the retina, which is critical for visual function. The study found that misregulation of alternative splicing and microexons can lead to devastating health impacts, including vision loss.
Male scorpionflies from two locations in Japan use varying mating tactics, with those from Okayama employing 'sneaking' to successfully mate. The study suggests that environmental factors and genetic components influence alternative mating habits.
A new study published in ACS' Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry found that plant-based meat substitutes contain proteins that are not as easily absorbed by human cells. The researchers used a model meat alternative made from soy and wheat gluten, which was found to have lower peptide uptake than chicken meat.
A Quebec research team has successfully synthesized carbon quantum dots from brewery waste, offering a biocompatible alternative to traditional materials. The eco-responsible approach uses microbrewery waste as a source material, reducing the need for pure chemicals and toxins.
The article provides guidance on alternative imaging methods for interventional radiology procedures, including the use of intravascular ultrasound, alternative contrast agents such as gadolinium and carbon dioxide, and case prioritization strategies to optimize available supplies. The authors recommend creating a priority matrix and h...
A recent study published in Aging-US reveals the crucial role of WRN in making choices between classical and alternative non-homologous end joining (NHEJ) DNA repair pathways. The research provides new insights into progeroid syndromes, such as Werner syndrome, and their connection to aging.
Researchers have developed a method to create edible nanoparticles that can transform healthy oils into gel-like blocks, providing a shelf-stable fat alternative for food manufacturers. This new approach could help reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes by replacing unhealthy fats with healthier options.
Researchers at CMU propose a new cell delivery method using shrink-wrapped corneal endothelial cells as an alternative to cornea transplant. The technology enables rapid engraftment into intact tissues, showing promise in treating diseases such as cystic fibrosis and heart attack.
Researchers administered epidural electrical stimulation (EES) to patients with degenerative spine diseases undergoing surgery, improving respiratory control and depth of breathing. The study provides proof of principle for using EES as an alternative treatment to combat opioid-induced respiratory depression.
Researchers at the University of Houston have identified an alternative to lithium-based battery technology for grid-level energy storage systems. They developed a novel form of oxysulfide glass electrolyte that enables reversible sodium plating and stripping at high current densities, potentially solving the challenges associated with...
Research suggests that non-GAAP earnings reports can lead to a higher risk of stock price crashes due to information asymmetry and manipulation. Companies use non-GAAP earnings to present a more positive picture, but investors should be cautious when managers have an incentive to mislead them.
A comprehensive study published in Frontiers found that medicinal cannabis improved pain measures, decreased cancer symptoms, and reduced the need for opioid painkillers among cancer patients. The study's results suggest that medical cannabis can be considered as an alternative to traditional pain relief medicines.
Scientists found a connection between the SARS-CoV-2 virus and the production of misfolded proteins called amyloids, which can cause complex symptoms and damage in organs such as the heart and kidneys. The researchers' discovery may help explain why COVID-19 often affects multiple parts of the body.
Alternative credit scoring systems present challenges not covered by existing regulations, leaving many Americans unable to access the credit system. These systems can be opaque and ripe for abusive lending practices, making it difficult for consumers to contest erroneous information.
A study by Durham University found that 90% of bidi workers are women who face numerous health issues and limited job options. Researchers suggest alternative employment like spice or fabric production could provide better working conditions and personal circumstances.
Researchers at TU Dresden have developed an alternative process for converting white phosphorus, reducing the need for toxic and corrosive chemicals. The new method, which omits chlorine gas, is a significant step towards more sustainable and environmentally friendly processes.
A new hydrogen fuel cell has been developed using an iron catalyst, which could make green energy more accessible and affordable. The innovation allows for a significant reduction in the cost of one of the primary components, making it a viable alternative to fossil fuels.
Researchers at University of Tokyo develop alternative production method for radioisotope technetium-99m, reducing reliance on aging nuclear reactors. The new method uses linear particle accelerators and activated carbon to produce the isotope with similar effectiveness as conventionally produced versions.
Researchers at ACS Sustainable Chemistry & Engineering have identified a less toxic dye called pigment red 254 (PR254) as a greener alternative to current anthraquinone dyes used in signal smokes. PR254 forms a red-colored smoke cloud more effectively and is thermally stable, making it suitable for use in heat-generating systems.
Researchers found that veterans with chronic headache are interested in combining alternative therapies like acupuncture and massage with mainstream medicine. Healthcare providers support patient empowerment, but need education on the scientific evidence for alternative therapies.
Researchers found that human embryos express a vast variety of alternative mRNAs when they are just 8 cells old, leading to a temporary collapse of splicing regulation at the zygotic genome activation stage. This phenomenon is developmentally programmed and occurs because it is necessary for functional reasons, ultimately affecting DNA...
A team of researchers at Indian Institute of Science has identified an alternative technique to produce metal powders for 3D printing, side-stepping the problems with atomisation. The new method uses surface grinding to create spherical powders with comparable quality to commercial gas atomised powders.
Patients with a reported penicillin allergy have higher rates of dental implant failure. Alternative antibiotics prescribed during surgery also linked to increased failure rates. The study suggests that testing for actual allergies may improve outcomes.
The trial evaluated the use of mavacamten as an alternative to heart surgery or alcohol septal ablation for treating hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. Findings showed significant reduction in left ventricular outflow tract pressure gradient and improvements in quality-of-life measures.