Brandeis scientists have developed a method to genetically identify and manipulate individual cell types in the mouse brain, revealing over 150 distinct brain cell types. This breakthrough enables researchers to activate or deactivate specific genes to study their function without affecting other cells.
A comprehensive assessment of dengue fever's economic impact found the global cost to be substantial at $8.9 billion annually, exceeding several other major infectious diseases. The study provides valuable insights for governments and donors in making informed decisions about dengue programs.
A recent study published in Cell reveals that sleep suppresses brain rebalancing, a mechanism crucial for neural activity regulation. This finding contradicts previous theories on the role of sleep in memory consolidation and homeostatic plasticity.
A computer game was used to investigate how people respond to audiovisual distractions, finding that age didn't affect susceptibility. The game helped researchers collect data on attention and learning from irrelevant sounds, with potential applications as a training tool.
Researchers at Brandeis University have discovered an abnormality in the schizophrenic brain that may be responsible for its wide-ranging symptoms. Abnormal neural oscillations, or delta waves, have been linked to cognitive deficits such as memory impairment in patients with schizophrenia.
Researchers at Brandeis University have discovered that friction forces are nearly 1,000 times greater than previously thought at the microscopic level. This breakthrough understanding of friction is an important step toward designing next-generation microscopic and nanotechnologies.
Abl and Src proteins have distinct evolutionary paths, allowing Brandeis researchers to pinpoint specificity for Gleevec. Their findings pave the way for rational drug design in various cancers.
The study found that since 2002, non-medical use of painkillers has declined while overdose deaths have soared. Researchers recommend expanding access to opioid addiction treatment and implementing public education campaigns on the risks of prescription opioids.
Scientists have discovered that brain cells in flies regulate both sleep and memory consolidation through a complex interaction. When activated, these cells promote sleep, while deactivated cells enable learning and memory formation.
Researchers captured highest-resolution images of human cilia using advanced imaging technique that preserves native structure and detects defects. This innovation provides a new window into the biology of ciliopathies, allowing for more accurate diagnoses and potential treatments.
A recent study by Brandeis University researchers found that KKK activity in the 1960s shifted voters' allegiance from Democratic to Republican in the South, a trend still evident today. The study suggests that racial attitudes and social movements can have lasting effects on politics, contributing to polarization.
A global surge in ADHD diagnoses is attributed to marketing trends and the increasing use of biological psychiatry, rather than medical needs. The study found that countries with more lax pharmaceutical laws and adoption of American-based diagnostic standards are seeing a rise in ADHD diagnoses.
A recent study by Brandeis University professor Nelson Lau reveals that the PIWI pathway, which protects against genetic parasites, has limitations. The pathway's effectiveness is crucial for human fertility and development, yet transposons continue to make up a significant portion of the genome.
A recent study by Brandeis University found that overweight individuals experience higher levels of stress-induced inflammation, which can contribute to chronic diseases. The researchers measured interleukin-6 (IL-6) levels in normal-weight and overweight individuals during psychological stress tests.
Researchers have developed a new theoretical model to understand how cells monitor and self-regulate their properties in the face of continual cellular turnover. The model suggests that neurons use an internal gauge to adjust ion channel expression, but this system can lead to neuronal hyperexcitability and disrupt overall homeostasis.
The report highlights the importance of sharing prescription monitoring data with third-party payers to detect inappropriate prescribing and dispensing, ultimately reducing opioid abuse and deaths. The recommendations aim to enhance insurer capabilities in monitoring prescribing patterns and improving patient safety.
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...
Brandeis University researchers have identified the correct structure of a potassium ion channel in heart cells, challenging previous studies that suggested varying numbers of proteins were required. The findings have significant implications for understanding arrhythmias and developing effective treatments.
A new study by Brandeis University and University of Rochester found that individuals with a high sense of control tend to live longer and healthier lives, especially among those with less education. The study suggests that educational experiences can be a key factor in improving one's sense of control.
A recent study by Theodore Sasson suggests that Israel's influence on US policy is diminishing due to the fragmentation of the Jewish community. The once-unified voice among American Jews is now fractured, with individual preferences driving political advocacy and philanthropic support.
The largest and oldest ancient wine cellar in the Near East has been discovered in northern Israel, containing 40 jars of strong, sweet wine dating back to around 1,700 B.C. The team found molecular traces of key wine-making ingredients, including honey, mint, and resins, indicating a consistent recipe was followed in each jar.
Researchers at Brandeis University observed a neural firing-rate set point in neocortical neurons, which remains stable even during sensory deprivation or sleep. This homeostatic mechanism could lead to new approaches for neurological disorders.
Scientists discovered a function of sNPF, a neuropeptide, in regulating both sleep and food intake in Drosophila. Activating sNPF led to rapid sleep induction, with flies sleeping on food sources for days. This study provides insight into the interaction between sleep and metabolism.
Researchers from Brandeis University and UMMS discovered that the spliceosome's major components can attach in any order, eliminating the need for precise communication. This breakthrough sheds light on the process of RNA splicing, a crucial step in protein synthesis, and holds promise for understanding diseases like cystic fibrosis.
Brandeis researchers have discovered a previously unknown molecular temperature sensor in fruit flies, which belongs to a protein family responsible for sensing tastes and smells. The discovery provides insights into how insects respond to temperature and may help scientists develop more effective repellents or traps.
Researchers at Brandeis University have developed a sophisticated computational model that helps scientists understand how viruses spread by analyzing genomic data, virus structure, and capsid formation. The team's tool predicts key structural features of the virus genome and controls capsid assembly.
Eve Marder's pioneering work in understanding the nervous system has helped redefine how we think about neurons and their capabilities. Her research using crustaceans has also shed light on conditions like depression, showing that imbalances in neuromodulation are key factors.
The researchers are being honored for their contributions to the discovery and applications of optogenetics, a technology that allows scientists to control brain activity by genetically engineering neurons. Hundreds of labs have started using the technique to manipulate brain activity in experimental animals.
Rodal's lab aims to understand the interplay between neuronal firing and growth factor transport in neurons, with potential applications for ALS and Alzheimer's treatments. She will use a fruit fly model system to study the relationship between electrical activity and receptor trafficking.
Researchers analyze the effectiveness of Medicare's bundled payment program, finding that it faces challenges in rewarding providers for efficient care delivery. Experts discuss lessons learned from previous payment reforms, emphasizing the need for comprehensive reforms that address multiple aspects of the health system.
A new study by Susan Parish found that families living in states with parity laws spent significantly less on healthcare needs for their children with autism. Families in these states incurred lower out-of-pocket costs, averaging $500 annually, compared to those without such legislation, where costs were much higher.
The Brandeis University Heller Center has received a $5 million grant from the Walmart Foundation to support work and learning programs for nearly 3,000 at-risk youth. The program aims to keep teens engaged and working, earning an average of $1200 over six weeks.
Researchers discovered the genetic basis of biological rhythms controlling sleep, wakefulness and hormone levels. Their work has potential to improve treatments for diseases controlled by circadian cycles.
A $2 million grant from NINDS funds research into the psychosocial impacts of epilepsy testing. The study aims to explore how genetic information affects individuals and their families, with a focus on reducing stigma and discrimination associated with epilepsy.
A research team led by Brandeis Professor Donald Shepard is investigating the cost-effectiveness of a new malaria prevention strategy involving a wallpaper-like liner technology. The technology has shown promising results in reducing malaria infections by 38 percent in Kenya.
Researchers at Brandeis University have made a significant discovery on how EmrE, a protein responsible for exporting antibiotics from cells, works. By studying its structure and function using nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, the team hopes to develop inhibitors that can target this protein and prevent drug resistance.
A recent study published in Psychological Science reveals that children raised in families with nurturing mothers are more likely to remain healthy across the life course, even those from low socioeconomic status backgrounds. The research found that parental nurturance can mitigate the negative effects of childhood disadvantage and is ...
A team of researchers explains how granular materials change from flowing to solid states through shearing, which can help engineers and manufacturers. They discovered that even without density changes, the discs exhibited a solid state due to the shape of the box changing.
Researchers at Brandeis University discover that fruit flies use two forms of TRPA1 to sense warmth and chemicals, providing potential solutions for chronic pain and disease control. The study's findings have implications for developing bug sprays and traps to combat mosquito-borne diseases.
Brandeis researchers have produced and determined the structure of alpha-synuclein, a key protein linked to Parkinson's disease. The findings may lead to the development of new treatments by stabilizing the protein.
A team of researchers has discovered that the length of cellular railways is controlled by a passenger protein called Smy1, which pauses during the journey to communicate with machinery building the railways. This mechanism prevents overgrowth of longer cables and allows rapid growth of shorter ones.
A team of Brandeis researchers has created artificial cilia-like structures that spontaneously organize into active bundles and beat in a periodic manner. This breakthrough offers a new approach for studying the beating patterns of real cilia, which could lead to advances in nanotechnology.
A new report reveals that nearly 75% of senior households have limited financial buffers against unexpected events, making them vulnerable to poverty. The situation is expected to worsen if cuts are made to Social Security, which could impact millions of seniors in the US.
The World Health Organization's latest Dengue Bulletin documents the substantial growth of dengue cases in the Americas, Africa, and Asia. The report reveals alarming increases in dengue deaths, with Brazil experiencing a 6.2% rise per year from 1999-2009.
Scientists have successfully reversed the toxicity of mutated ALS protein in yeast cells using a human gene. By introducing a 'rescue' protein, they eliminated the deadly effects without sending the toxic protein back to the nucleus. This breakthrough could pave the way for new treatments for the disease.
Researchers at Brandeis University have developed a method to study the splicing of pre-messenger RNA molecules using lasers and a custom microscope. This technique allows for the visualization of the spliceosome's assembly process in unprecedented detail, providing insights into the fundamental biology of protein synthesis.
The economic burden of dengue fever in the Western Hemisphere surpasses other viral illnesses, with estimated annual costs of $2.1 billion. Direct and indirect costs include ambulatory care, hospitalization, productivity losses, and government expenditures.
Researchers at Brandeis University developed a chemical rope to stabilize the SOD1 protein, which causes familial ALS. The approach potentially solves the instability problem, even at high temperatures.
A new study by Margie E. Lachman and Stefan Agrigoroaei found that specific psychological, social, and physical protective factors can delay declines in health by up to a decade. Positive traits such as control beliefs, social support, and physical exercise are associated with better health in later life.
The Lancet series on HIV in people who use drugs highlights the need to shift focus from individual patient adherence to health delivery conditions that create treatment interruptions. The series reports that increased ART provision to IDUs reduces infectivity and transmission, and is cost-effective.