Researchers at Northwestern University discovered a common ancestor among viruses that cause measles, mumps, and respiratory infections in infants and HIV, influenza, and Ebola. The study found a similar entry mechanism among these viruses, suggesting new approaches to blocking infection.
A Northwestern University study found that many older women have undiagnosed and untreated hearing loss, which can lead to depression and emotional problems. The researchers suggest that public policy should include hearing care as part of all health maintenance plans.
In a groundbreaking study, researchers directly observed molecules of liquid forming three solid-like layers near a solid surface. The findings suggest that liquids do not behave like bulk liquids in confined geometries and have significant implications for the development of lubricants and thin film coatings.
Researchers at Northwestern University have created a world's smallest and sharpest pen that can draw lines just a few dozen molecules wide, opening up new ways to explore the nano-world of electronics based on molecules. The 'dip-pen nanolithography' technique uses an atomic force microscope to transfer molecules with high precision o...
Research reveals that the AHC gene, previously thought to program ovarian development, is actually crucial for male fertility. Males lacking this gene have defective testicles and are sterile. The study also found that overexpression of the AHC gene can interfere with the function of a key protein involved in testicular development.
The Northwestern University-led study determines the precise shape of the high-affinity immunoglobulin-E receptor, a trigger for allergic responses. The structure's discovery could lead to the development of targeted therapies blocking the receptor's binding to antibodies.
Researchers have created a laser without mirrors using powdered layers of zinc oxide and gallium nitride. The device amplifies light using a disordered structure, creating feedback to form lasing cavities and producing blue laser light.
A new study from Northwestern University found that Evista (raloxifene) significantly reduces the risk of invasive breast cancer in postmenopausal women, with a 63% decrease in newly diagnosed cases. The medication has also been shown to lower cholesterol and protect against bone loss and osteoporosis-related fractures.
Scientists have provided direct evidence that the Earth's innermost core is solid, contradicting a long-held assumption of a liquid core. This finding was made possible by advances in instrumentation and computer capabilities, allowing researchers to detect the characteristic vibrations of a solid core.
A team of scientists found that a single gene with two vital functions can lead to missing roles, highlighting the complexity of mammalian fetal development. GATA-2 expression was previously thought to only control blood cell formation but is now known to have additional roles in the genitourinary system.
A new form of inherited dwarfism, known as Dwarfism of Sindh, has been identified in a large Pakistani family. The condition is caused by a genetic mutation in the growth hormone-releasing hormone receptor (GHRH-R), leading to growth hormone deficiency and dwarfism.
Researchers are evaluating a combined-risk assessment method that combines blood protein markers and ultrasonography measurements to predict fetal abnormalities. The test has an estimated detection rate of up to 90% and could lead to earlier diagnosis and reduced invasive procedures.
Researchers develop a novel microwave imaging technology to detect breast tumors without X-ray radiation, potentially reducing mortality rates. The technology uses microwaves to detect differences in water content between malignant and benign tumors.
A Northwestern University study found that individuals with low cardiovascular disease risk factors during young adulthood and middle age had significantly lower annual Medicare charges, with men experiencing a 30% reduction ($1,600 less) and women experiencing a 50% reduction ($1,800 less). The results suggest that preventing major ca...
A new Institute for Environmental Catalysis will be established at Northwestern University, focusing on catalytic oxidation processes and their applications. The researchers aim to improve environmental impact by reducing pollutants in the environment and industrial activities.
A Northwestern University study found that women with sexually transmitted diseases or elevated progesterone levels are more susceptible to HIV infection after unprotected sex with an HIV-positive partner. The research suggests that blocking chemokine receptors in genital tissues could be a key strategy for preventing male-to-female HI...
A Northwestern University Medical School study found that low literacy levels were a significant predictor of having incurable prostate cancer among low-income white and black men. Poor reading skills were more prevalent among black men with advanced cancers, suggesting low literacy as a key factor in the disparity.
The website provides a comprehensive educational program on genetics, genetic testing, diagnosis, counseling, and cancer risk assessment. It features three levels of education for different audiences and includes case scenarios, problem sets, and moderated discussion groups.
Researchers have visualized chaotic flows in three dimensions, revealing regular islands formed by unmixed liquid streams. The study's findings could lead to improved mixing conditions in various industries, including chemical companies and geophysics.
Researchers at Northwestern University have identified a new regulatory molecule, HSBP-1, that regulates the production of heat shock proteins in response to stress. This finding may lead to new insights into cell death associated with aging and diseases such as heart disease and stroke.
Astronomers have discovered bluer galaxies in nearby clusters, indicating recent star formation and a possible ongoing process. The finding revises the Butcher-Oemler effect, suggesting that some clusters may still be forming new stars.
Two teams of scientists have identified similar genes that control the daily cycles of life, revealing a simple feedback loop mechanism. This breakthrough sheds light on how animals like humans regulate their sleep-wake cycles, and may help explain why heart attacks occur more often in the morning.
A new protein called HveC has been discovered that allows both Herpes Simplex-1 and -2, as well as animal herpesviruses, to infect human cells. This receptor has the broadest activity among the identified co-receptors, enabling entry of multiple strains of herpesviruses into various cell types.
Researchers at Northwestern University Medical School have developed a rapid diagnostic test to detect vancomycin-resistant enterococci (VRE), a growing threat to hospital patients. The new method, called hot-start polymerase chain reaction (PCR), detects VRE in 13 of 15 specimens, allowing for early isolation and treatment.
Researchers found TTP develops within four weeks of starting ticlopidine therapy, causing mass destruction of blood platelets and high mortality rates. Early detection and treatment with plasmapheresis significantly reduce death risk, but most neurologists and cardiologists are unaware of this side effect.
A nationwide study found a significant decline in HIV-related deaths and opportunistic infections from 1994 to mid-1997, largely due to the use of combination antiretroviral therapy including protease inhibitors. Prescription rates for combination therapy increased dramatically during this period.
The Global Positioning System (GPS) is enabling geologists to study earthquakes in real time, revealing incremental motion and slow squeezing within plates that can lead to earthquakes. This technology is improving earthquake hazard studies by allowing for more accurate predictions of seismic activity.
Researchers use GPS satellites to monitor the movement of an entire continent and record the yearly growth of the Andes Mountains. The study shows that satellite data can help geologists calculate accumulating stresses along fault lines, promising improved earthquake hazard estimation.
Hot, ionized gas streams toward the galactic center, bending sharply around it and slingshoting out the other side due to its high velocity. The findings may provide clues to the nature of the mysterious black hole candidate.
Researchers found increased levels of butyrylcholinesterase (BChE) in brains with compact and insoluble beta-amyloid plaques, a hallmark of Alzheimer's disease. BChE may play a role in transforming benign amyloid protein deposits into the disease-causing plaques.
Researchers at Northwestern University Medical School found that resveratrol in red wine is a form of estrogen with cardioprotective properties. Moderate consumption of red wine may reduce cardiovascular disease risk due to its resveratrol content, which activates estrogen receptors and increases HDL cholesterol.
A team of scientists discovered a special protein that encases copper to transport it through the cell and deliver it to specific enzymes. The finding provides clues to toxic mechanisms of other metals and rare diseases related to copper metabolism.
Researchers found that chronic stress influenced daily activity rhythms and induced depressive-like behavior changes in mice. Exercise was more pronounced in animals without running wheels, suggesting its protective properties against stress effects.
A phase I multicenter trial uses transgenic pig livers as an ex vivo support system to remove toxins from patients' blood, extending their lives until a human donor liver is available. Researchers aim to alleviate the critical shortage of human donor organs, which claims 3,000 lives per year in the US.
Researchers at Northwestern University have developed a new gold-DNA probe technique that offers high accuracy and speed in detecting genetic and pathogenic diseases. The method uses gold nanoparticles combined with oligonucleotides to detect specific genes linked to diseases, eliminating the need for radioactive materials.
Researchers successfully cloned the Clock gene, a key regulator of circadian rhythms in mammals. The gene's identification provides insight into the molecular mechanisms underlying circadian rhythm entrainment and expression, potentially leading to new treatments for sleep disorders and jet lag-related issues.
A study funded by NIMH found that only 23.5% of women in jail needed mental health services received them, despite having special needs such as abuse and addiction. The lack of services can lead to increased suicide rates among female detainees.
A national survey found that local TV news devotes only 2% to education and 1.2% to race relations, instead focusing on easy-to-cover topics like weather and breaking news. Local TV in larger markets spends even less time on these issues.
A new study found that 41% of current AFDC recipients will reach the 60-month cutoff for lifetime receipt of welfare, and 52% will be forced to seek employment or work activity. States have options to exempt up to 20% of caseloads, but millions of families will still be affected.
Researchers found synergy in two strains of Enterococcus faecalis when combining trovafloxacin and ampicillin/sulbactam, but not in other tested strains. Combination antibiotic treatment remains the only effective means to eliminate vancomycin-resistant enterococcal infections.
Researchers from Northwestern University demonstrate a robot called Scooter that is programmed to refuse to go past a virtual surface. This innovation is part of a new class of collaborative robots called cobots, which are designed to work with humans safely and efficiently.
A 30-year follow-up study found that men who ate about 35 grams of fish per day had a significantly lower risk of dying from a heart attack than those who did not eat fish. The findings held true after accounting for various demographic and health factors, supporting the view that eating fish protects against heart attacks.
A revised ocean depth model developed by Northwestern University geologists significantly better fits observed data, correcting inconsistencies in existing models. By adjusting the assumed thickness of the lithosphere to 95 kilometers, the new model accurately predicts ocean depths surrounding the Hawaiian Islands.
The study, published in the EMBO Journal, shows that viral tails play a crucial role in controlling the shape and formation of new viral particles. The research demonstrates the importance of these protein parts in the development of the virus.
Researchers investigate melatonin's potential to alleviate insomnia in patients with depression undergoing antidepressant treatment. The study aims to determine the optimal dose of melatonin to restore normal sleep patterns.
People with idiopathic anaphylaxis experience unpredictable, life-threatening symptoms without an external cause. Prompt diagnosis and preventive therapy with a combination of prednisone, hydroxyzine, and albuterol are critical to prevent death.
A team of researchers at Northwestern University and the Mayo Clinic have identified two new proteins, Cyp-40 and p23, that act as molecular chaperones to fold proteins into an intermediate state. This discovery expands our understanding of what molecular chaperones are and their role in enhancing hormone sensitivity in cells.
Researchers found increased enzyme activity in Alzheimer's patients, suggesting a potential factor in disease development. A peptide inhibiting ACTH synthesis and secretion was also identified as a regulator of the body's adaptive response to stress.
According to Bruce Rittmann, microbes can break down a wide variety of pollutants, including PCBs and chlorinated solvents, through processes such as in situ bioremediation. In these processes, microbes are fed oxygen and nutrients to stimulate their growth and degradation of contaminants.
A Northwestern University study reveals a biochemical connection between alcoholism and nicotine addiction, suggesting that low concentrations of alcohol may interact with the neuronal nicotinic acetylcholine receptor. The researchers propose that this interaction may contribute to the high correlation between alcoholism and smoking.