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Newly found CLAMP protein regulates genes

The newly found CLAMP protein plays a crucial role in regulating the X chromosome in male fruit flies, enabling them to develop and survive. By working together with the MSL complex, CLAMP creates a self-reinforcing feedback loop that enhances gene expression, providing a model for understanding how proteins govern gene transcription.

SourceBrown University·JournalGenes & Development·DateJul 18, 2013

Cry analyzer seeks clues to babies' health

Researchers developed a computer-based tool to analyze babies' cries for subtle acoustic features that can indicate neurological problems or developmental disorders. The new analyzer uses machine learning algorithms to evaluate over 80 parameters, offering non-invasive ways to measure disruptions in young babies' brains and behavior.

Jagged graphene edges can slice into cell membranes

Researchers at Brown University have discovered that graphene's sharp corners and jagged protrusions can pierce cell membranes, potentially disrupting normal function. The findings may help minimize the potential toxicity of graphene, a material with numerous commercial applications.

SourceBrown University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 10, 2013

DNA markers in low-IQ autism suggest heredity

A new study analyzed DNA from over 2,100 children with autism and found evidence of a recessive, inherited genetic contribution in cases with significant intellectual disability. The research suggests that runs of homozygosity, or long strands of identical DNA, may harbor deleterious variants that increase disease susceptibility.

SourceBrown University·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·DateJul 3, 2013

Asian neighborhoods: Separate but equal

A recent study by Brown University found that Asian Americans' neighborhoods tend to be highly segregated and affluent, unlike other minority groups. Despite this, there is little incentive for Asians to assimilate into white neighborhoods due to their own socioeconomic advantages.

NMR advance brings proteins into the open

Researchers at Brown University used a novel approach to nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy to resolve the key interaction between two proteins. The study reveals that the GroEL chaperone is a permissive captor, allowing the smaller protein to bind at two hydrophobic sites and detach, resulting in conformational heterogeneity.

SourceBrown University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 24, 2013

Computer models shed new light on sickle cell crisis

Researchers from Brown University have developed computer models that show how different types of red blood cells interact to cause sickle cell crisis. The findings suggest that softer, deformable red blood cells known as SS2 cells start the process by sticking to capillary walls, leading to blockages.

SourceBrown University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 24, 2013

Pistil leads pollen in life-and-death dance

A Brown University research team has discovered the genetically prescribed dance steps of the pollen tube, which leads to its self-sacrifice and allows flowering plants to reproduce. The study highlights the complex intercellular communications involved in pollination.

SourceBrown University·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJun 20, 2013

Noble gases hitch a ride on hydrous minerals

Geochemists at Brown University have discovered noble gases can dissolve in amphibole minerals, providing a potential mechanism for their recycling between the atmosphere and Earth's interior. This finding is significant as it sheds light on how other volatiles like water and carbon are cycled.

SourceBrown University·JournalNature Geoscience·DateJun 16, 2013

Study builds dossier on JC polyomavirus

Researchers have found that common mutant forms of the JC polyomavirus are not infectious, but may still contribute to disease. The mutants appear to be up to no good by only being found in immunocompromised patients and possibly helping the main virus evade the immune system.

SourceBrown University·JournalmBio·DateJun 11, 2013

Cost-effective: Universal HIV testing in India

A new study suggests that universal HIV testing in India could be a cost-effective strategy to save millions of lives. The study found that testing every five years would be the most cost-effective option, with a price tag of $1,900 per year of life saved in the general population and $1,300 per YLS among high-risk groups.

SourceBrown University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJun 10, 2013

MRI study: Breastfeeding boosts babies' brain growth

A new MRI study by Brown University researchers reveals that exclusive breastfeeding for at least three months enhances brain development in infants, particularly in areas related to language and emotional function. The study found a 20-30% increase in white matter growth in breastfed babies compared to formula-fed babies.

SourceBrown University·JournalNeuroImage·DateJun 6, 2013

White Mountains hikers often underprepared

A study by Brown University found that three out of five hikers brought seven or fewer items, while only 18 percent packed all 10 essential items. Young and inexperienced hikers were most likely to lack multiple items recommended by the State of New Hampshire's HikeSafe program.

SourceBrown University·JournalWilderness and Environmental Medicine·DateMay 28, 2013

Advance in tuberous sclerosis brain science

A new study in mice reveals that the timing of gene mutation during thalamus development significantly affects TSC-like behavioral symptoms and disease severity. The research highlights the importance of the thalamus in brain function and suggests a potential target for future treatments.

SourceBrown University·JournalNeuron·DateMay 9, 2013

Bats use blood to reshape tongue for feeding

Researchers discovered that nectar-feeding bats use blood flow to erect tiny hair-like structures on their tongues, allowing them to gather nectar from flowers. This unique technology enables the bats to slurp up nectar quickly and efficiently.

SourceBrown University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 6, 2013

Computer algorithms help find cancer connections

Researchers developed powerful data-sifting algorithms to assemble the most complete genetic profile of acute myeloid leukemia, an aggressive form of blood cancer. The work aims to lead to new AML treatments based on the genetics of each patient's disease.

SourceBrown University·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMay 1, 2013

Analysis: Emergency care cost estimates are too low

A recent analysis published in the Annals of Emergency Medicine found that emergency care cost estimates are too low, with costs ranging from 4.9-5.8% of total healthcare spending. The study suggests that an alternative accounting method, Time-Driven Activity-Based Costing (ABC), could provide a more realistic measure of ED costs.

SourceBrown University·JournalAnnals of Emergency Medicine·DateApr 29, 2013

How some leaves got fat: It's the veins

A new study by Brown University researchers found that fat leaves evolved a three-dimensional vein structure to store water and sustain efficient photosynthesis. This evolution allowed leaves to become thicker without compromising hydraulic performance, enabling plants like succulents to thrive in arid conditions.

SourceBrown University·JournalCurrent Biology·DateApr 11, 2013

1 in 5 seniors on risky meds; more in US South

A recent analysis by Brown University researchers reveals that over 1 in 5 seniors with Medicare Advantage plans received potentially harmful high-risk medications in 2009. The Southeast region had the highest rates of prescription use for these risky medications, particularly among women and those living in poor areas.

SourceBrown University·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateApr 10, 2013

Carbon's role in planetary atmosphere formation

Researchers discovered that iron carbonyl is the main form of carbon trapped in magmas on Mars, releasing carbon monoxide and methane gases. This finding suggests that early Mars' volcanism could have released enough greenhouse gases to warm the planet significantly.

SourceBrown University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 8, 2013

Invasive crabs help Cape Cod marshes

New research reveals that invasive green crabs are helping to restore Cape Cod's distressed salt marshes by filling the void left by declining native predators of sesarma crabs. The study found that green crab presence had a significant deterrent effect on sesarma herbivory, allowing grass regrowth in areas previously depleted.

SourceBrown University·JournalEcology·DateApr 3, 2013

Misregulated genes may have big autism role

Two genes associated with rare autism-related disorders are also jointly linked to more general forms of autism, according to a new study published in Molecular Psychiatry. The findings suggest a new genetic pathway to investigate in general autism research.

SourceBrown University·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·DateMar 21, 2013

Program improves Ph.D. student diversity

A new paper at Brown University describes a program that has significantly improved recruiting and performance of underrepresented minority students in its life sciences doctoral programs over the last four years. The program's three-part strategy includes partnerships with undergraduate institutions, minicourses to build skills needed...

Political strife undermines HIV treatment

A new paper highlights how political conflict can lead to disrupted treatment, promoting resistance to antiretroviral drugs and treatment failure. The authors call for further research and planning to mitigate the effects of treatment interruption in strife-prone nations with high rates of HIV infection.

SourceBrown University·JournalAids Reviews·DateMar 12, 2013

New spectroscopy method could lead to better optical devices

A new spectroscopy method has been developed to analyze light emission from layered nanomaterials, enabling researchers to determine the orientation of emitters and potentially improve the efficiency of optical devices. The technique uses energy-momentum spectroscopy to study interference effects in thin films.

SourceBrown University·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateMar 5, 2013

Brown unveils novel wireless brain sensor

Researchers created a novel low-power device that enables the recording of complex neural signals in freely moving subjects for over 16 months. The device, which transmits data wirelessly, has the potential to revolutionize brain-computer interfaces and help people with severe paralysis control devices with their thoughts.

SourceBrown University·JournalJournal of Neural Engineering·DateFeb 28, 2013

Strengthening speech networks to treat aphasia

Aphasia affects 80,000 people annually in the US, causing difficulty speaking and understanding language. Researchers at Brown University have developed a therapy to strengthen speech networks using guided speech and repetition exercises. Early testing with four patients showed improved precision and reduced errors.

A neural basis for benefits of meditation

Researchers propose that mindfulness practitioners gain enhanced control over sensory cortical alpha rhythms, enabling optimal filtering of sensory information and regulation of negative thoughts. This control is linked to the practice of mindful awareness of breath and body sensations.

SourceBrown University·JournalFrontiers in Human Neuroscience·DateFeb 13, 2013

Study in mice yields Angelman advance

A team of scientists at Brown University has made a breakthrough in understanding the neurological signaling breakdown in Angelman syndrome, a disorder affecting thousands of children. They demonstrated how a synthesized compound called CN2097 works to restore neural functions impaired by the disease.

SourceBrown University·JournalPLOS Biology·DateFeb 13, 2013

Size of lunch dictates force of crunch

A new study reveals that bite force is influenced by the size of both the eater and the eatee, peaking at an optimal level of muscle stretch. The research found that too much or too little stretch leads to reduced bite force, with some fish able to crush stronger tubes when their muscles are optimally stretched.

SourceBrown University·JournalBiology Letters·DateFeb 12, 2013