A new detection method uses gold nanoparticles and DNA probes to quickly identify multiple diseases, surpassing conventional methods in sensitivity, selectivity, and speed. This technique has the potential to be inexpensive and widely available.
A new study suggests that women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) and their siblings with hormone problems have the same gene defect. The study found that approximately 50% of PCOS sisters had elevated androgen levels, while PCOS brothers had significantly elevated DHEAS levels.
Researchers found atazanavir significantly lowers total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein (
Researchers found that HIV-infected patients with viral suppression interrupted treatment for an average of nine months without experiencing infections or illnesses. Patients with lower virus levels and stronger immune systems responded favorably to the interruption.
Northwestern researcher Robert L. Murphy calls for simplified, less toxic HIV therapies due to complex regimens and adverse effects. He discusses potential new treatments like atazanavir, a single-daily-dose protease inhibitor with minimal side effects.
A new device developed by Northwestern University uses a hollow-fiber membrane biofilm reactor to remove perchlorate and nitrate from contaminated water. The system exploits the natural biochemical process of electron transfer, reducing contaminants to harmless substances.
Researchers at Northwestern University developed a new tool to write nanopatterns with DNA inks, enabling the creation of miniaturized gene chips with an array of diagnostic tests. This technology can produce spots of DNA down to 50 nanometers in diameter, reducing cost and time.
Researchers found that tau protein is necessary for beta-amyloid to cause brain cell degeneration in Alzheimer's disease. Tau-depleted neurons showed rapid microtubule turnover, suggesting potential resistance to neurodegeneration.
Women in jail have high HIV infection rates, with specific risk factors identified as substance abuse disorders and severe mental illness. An HIV/AIDS education program in a correctional setting has shown promise in reducing the spread of HIV in communities.
Researchers at Northwestern University have discovered a chemical species that defies conventional theory on stability. The pentamethylcyclopentadienyl cation is stable in the solid state and solution, challenging traditional understanding of antiaromaticity. This finding has significant implications for the field of organic chemistry.
Researchers have identified a molecular mechanism that controls a 'failsafe' device in endothelial cells, which marks them for apoptosis and blocks abnormal new blood vessel growth. This discovery may lead to the design of new anti-angiogenic drugs or improved existing treatments.
Chronic heart failure affects 5 million US people, with poor hospital outcomes and high readmission rates. Researchers conducted large placebo-controlled trials to develop treatment guidelines for this condition.
Researchers at Northwestern University have created a novel device that detects ultraviolet light 10 times more efficiently than the Hubble Space Telescope. The innovative detector uses gallium nitride material to block visible and infrared light, allowing astronomers to study important objects in the universe for the first time.
A rare form of meningitis caused by Angiostrongylus cantonensis larvae was contracted in a Jamaican restaurant outbreak linked to contaminated romaine lettuce. The lettuce, imported from the US, was the likely source of the infection, which affected 12 individuals and hospitalized nine.
Northwestern University scientists developed a new DNA detection method that excels in sensitivity, selectivity, cost, ease of use, and speed. The technology can detect hundreds of pathogenic agents simultaneously and pinpoint single-base mismatches missed by conventional methods.
Researchers found that raloxifene did not prevent growth of breast tumors previously exposed to tamoxifen, while being less effective in blocking endometrial tumor growth. The study suggests that raloxifene may not further reduce the risk for breast cancer recurrence after five years of tamoxifen therapy.
Researchers at Northwestern University have developed a gene therapy that reduces inflammatory cytokines involved in joint inflammation. The treatment, which uses the IL-13 gene, has been shown to suppress joint inflammation and prevent the development of arthritis in rat models.
Researchers create protein nanoarrays with features over 1,000 times smaller than conventional arrays, enabling more accurate and efficient detection of biomolecules. The technology, developed by Northwestern University, holds promise for applications in disease screening and biorecognition.
Recent studies suggest that modulating glial inflammation may be an effective approach to delaying onset or slowing progression of neurodegeneration. New compounds described in a study selectively block production of IL-1B, iNOS and NO by activated glia without diminishing the production of other glial proteins.
Researchers propose a new mechanism to explain the X-ray galactic ridge's origin, involving low-energy cosmic rays interacting with neutral molecular clouds. The study suggests that this process can produce the observed X-ray emission without requiring dramatic events or unusual astrophysical processes.
A study by Northwestern University researchers found that men who smoke are more likely to experience erectile dysfunction due to the negative effects of smoking on blood vessels. The prevalence of erectile dysfunction in former smokers was similar to that of never-smokers, highlighting the long-term risks of tobacco use.
A new study aims to determine the effectiveness of drug therapy, psychotherapy, or a combination in treating major depression in teenagers. The study, administered by Northwestern University Medical School, will enroll participants between 12-17 years old with clinician-diagnosed depression.
Researchers at Northwestern University have developed a method to create triangular nanoprisms in large quantities, which can be used as new diagnostic labels for detecting biological weapons and diseases. The nanoparticles' unique optical properties make them a promising building block for detection science.
Researchers create self-assembled nanofibers resembling collagen fibrils in real bone, enabling mineralization and promoting cell attachment. The synthetic nanofibers offer potential applications in bone fractures, tissue regeneration, and electronics.
Physicians who participate in executions do so out of a sense of citizen obligation, but this involvement mostly advances pro-death penalty political purposes. Medical professionals have long opposed physician participation in executions due to ethical concerns.
A second gene mutation for the inherited form of ALS has been discovered by Northwestern University researcher Teepu Siddique. The newly identified gene, alsin, is responsible for juvenile inherited ALS (ALS2), a rare and slowly progressive disease affecting young populations in North Africa and the Middle East.
Researchers at Northwestern University have developed a new imaging method that uses high-temperature superconductors to improve Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) technologies. The breakthrough, led by Professor William Halperin, enables the study of superconducting vortices in tiny crystals with unprecedented spatial resolution.
Neuroscientists identified brain regions activated by eating chocolate's rewarding and aversive aspects, offering insights into addiction and eating disorders. The study provides a novel model for understanding addiction using primary reinforcers like fat and sweet.
Researchers at Northwestern University determine the molecular structure of a metallochaperone (CCS) bound to its target protein (SOD), providing new insight into a metal transfer mechanism and shedding light on diseases related to copper and oxidative stress.
Researchers used NMR technology to analyze lipoprotein size and concentration in 262 patients with high-risk heart disease. The study found that a commonly prescribed statin, pravastatin, was equally effective in lowering bad cholesterol levels regardless of LDL particle size.
Geologists propose that high-pressure ice could accumulate in planetary interiors during subduction, potentially influencing tectonic activity and volcanic eruptions on Earth and Mars. This process may also impact the planet's thermal balance, with changes in water state affecting dynamics and evolution.
Researchers used contrast-enhanced MRI to assess heart damage in 50 patients. The technique distinguished between reversible and irreversible injury, allowing for more accurate prediction of surgery success.
Researchers at Northwestern University are analyzing DNA samples from families with children born with spina bifida to identify genetic traits and risk factors. The study aims to predict the likelihood of having a child with the condition, giving parents power to make informed decisions.
Researchers at Northwestern University are conducting six studies on the role of diet and hormones in breast cancer prevention and development, as well as innovative translational therapies.
A study at Northwestern University aims to assess whether an experimental drug can reduce carcinogens produced by cigarette smoke, potentially preventing lung cancer. Participants must be heavy smokers with a history of failed quit attempts and no medical problems.
A Northwestern University study collects data from nearly 1,000 dying patients to provide new insights into the care of terminally ill individuals. The research reveals that good communication with physicians and nurses, as well as spiritual/religious practices, contribute to a greater sense of purpose and personal acceptance.
In a two-year study, researchers at Northwestern University are using phytoremediation to reduce lead poisoning in Chicago's West Town community. They have planted different types of grasses and vegetation in 40 homes to test their effectiveness in removing lead from the soil.
Researchers at Northwestern University are developing a non-destructive test to detect small flaws, latent flaws, and general degradation in commercial aircraft wiring. The FAA is funding the $450,000 grant, which aims to improve aircraft safety by identifying critical degradation levels of aging wiring without removal from its location.
Northwestern University has received nearly $1 million in NSF funding to develop special robots called cobots that assist humans in heavy materials handling. Researchers also plan to create a technology to distribute computer software for large-scale optimization problems via the Internet.
Renowned scientists and clinicians will discuss recent advances in breast cancer science and treatment, including new developments in imaging techniques, hormone replacement therapy, and alternative therapies. The symposium will feature prominent speakers from top medical institutions.
Researchers at Northwestern University have developed a novel DNA detection method that is more accurate, less expensive, and easier to use than conventional methods. The scanometric DNA array detection method uses gold nanoparticles and a flatbed scanner to detect target DNA with high sensitivity and selectivity.
Researchers found that high-dose immune suppression and stem-cell transplantation can lead to long-term remission in lupus patients. The treatment approach has implications for the treatment of other immune disorders, including multiple sclerosis and some types of cancers.
A specific gene, espin, is linked to deafness and abnormal behaviors in jerker mice. The mutated gene affects hair cell function, leading to false signals sent to the brain, which causes animals to move erratically.
Researchers at Northwestern University are developing novel architectural and compiler concepts to reduce energy consumption in specific military applications by a factor of 100 times. This technology will also benefit civilian applications, enabling longer battery life and increased functionality in portable devices.
Scientists at Northwestern University have identified the structure of the interaction complex between two molecules central to the allergic response in humans. The discovery could lead to a new class of drugs that target allergies at their source, preventing symptoms like itching and congestion.
Research highlights the difficulties faced by rural low-income families in transitioning from welfare to work due to limited job opportunities and lower wages. Despite recent economic growth, many rural areas lack essential workplace supports and infrastructure, hindering employment prospects.
Researchers at Northwestern University have discovered that the growth-associated protein GAP-43 enhances learning and memory in the mammalian brain when overexpressed in a phosphorylatable form. This finding could lead to new treatments for memory loss and learning disorders.
A breakthrough in nanolithography transforms dip-pen nanolithography into a parallel process, paving the way to mass-producing tiny nanostructures. The new eight-pen nanoplotter can create identical patterns with consistent line widths and requires only one feedback system.
Researchers at Northwestern University found that adult memories of childhood events and relationships are no more accurate than chance, contradicting the idea that memory is a continuous tape. The study's findings have important implications for psychiatrists and mental health professionals who rely on patient reports.
Scientists at Northwestern University discovered that polyglutamine aggregates are toxic and can bring healthy proteins to aggregate with them. The growth of these aggregates can be suppressed by molecular chaperones called heat shock proteins. This finding provides a new model for understanding the common pathology of neurodegenerativ...