A new study by Northwestern University Medical School researchers found that high blood sugar levels are associated with an increased risk of pancreatic cancer death. The study analyzed data from nearly 40,000 men and women who were screened for cardiovascular disease risk and followed up for an average of 25 years.
Researchers at Northwestern University have successfully cloned a gene called Prestin, which codes for a protein that plays a critical role in the functioning of outer hair cells. The discovery could hold promise for treating hearing disorders and developing new biocompatible motors for nanotechnology applications.
A Northwestern University research team has discovered the first enzyme to play a role in the mammalian circadian clock, contributing significantly to understanding of circadian rhythm-related problems. The identified casein kinase I epsilon (CKIe) enzyme interacts with PERIOD proteins, affecting the timing of the circadian cycle.
Researchers at Northwestern University report a rare but potentially fatal blood disease known as thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP) associated with clopidogrel use. The disorder causes mass destruction of blood platelets, anemia, and other severe symptoms.
Researchers developed a novel method to improve polymers by changing their organization using small molecules as additives. The new method creates a gel-like material with enhanced mechanical and thermal properties, as well as unique optical properties, including birefringence and wavelength reflection.
A Northwestern University researcher is leading a five-year, $5 million National Cancer Institute-sponsored study to improve current methods and evaluate new tests for detecting early-stage ovarian cancer. The study aims to identify novel biomarkers that can detect ovarian cancer in its early stages.
Donald Saari's research on voting paradoxes and weighted voting systems has shown that simple plurality voting can produce misleading results. He suggests using the 'Borda count' system, which assigns weighted votes for each candidate, to better reflect voters' true wishes in elections.
A groundbreaking study led by Northwestern University aims to understand the health needs of delinquent children over time. The longitudinal study examines factors such as service integration, treatment effectiveness, and HIV/AIDS risk behaviors among 1,800 racially diverse youth.
A genetic defect in a protein receptor has been identified as the cause of Leydig cell adenoma, a rare testicular tumor that triggers early puberty in boys. The mutation leads to rapid growth and overproduction of testosterone without normal hormonal signals.
Researchers at Northwestern University create a new technology called nano-plotter, which enables precise placement of multiple molecules on a solid substrate. This innovation could lead to advancements in molecule-based electronics, molecular diagnostics, and catalysis.
A study by Northwestern University researchers finds that linezolid is highly effective against a range of gram-positive bacteria, including those resistant to vancomycin and oxacillin. The antibiotic showed potent activity against all isolates tested, making it a promising new treatment option for patients with drug-resistant infections.
Amputation rates among elderly Americans have risen due to limited capacity for bypass surgery and angioplasty procedures. Diabetes remains a major risk factor, with 40-60% of amputations involving diabetic patients.
Physicists at Northwestern University have demonstrated that superfluid helium-3 can conduct sound waves transversely, a property previously observed in solids. This discovery provides conclusive proof of the existence of transverse sound waves in liquid helium-3 and opens up new possibilities for studying its internal structure.
Researchers at Northwestern University have halted motor neuron destruction and slowed ALS progression using GDNF gene therapy in laboratory mice. The approach may one day prove effective in treating humans with ALS.
A protein called PEDF has been shown to halt excessive blood vessel growth in the eye, potentially treating diabetic retinopathy and macular degeneration. Researchers found that increasing PEDF levels could slow vision deterioration and prevent new vessels from overgrowing.
Researchers have identified a new mechanism for regulating gene expression that could help scientists understand developmental birth defects and other medical conditions. The TRA-1 protein plays a critical role in binding to DNA and controlling mRNA movement, which affects protein production during embryo development.
A study by Northwestern University and the Mayo Clinic found that postmenopausal hormone replacement therapy increases the risk for specific types of breast cancer with favorable prognoses, particularly invasive ductal or lobular carcinoma. The risk is higher among women who used hormone replacement therapy for five or fewer years.
Northwestern University researchers have identified key peptides that can halt and even reverse kidney disease in lupus. The peptides were found to be effective in delaying the onset of severe kidney disease in young mice and prolonging survival in adult mice with established kidney disease.
New study using GPS satellites tracks ground motions in Midwest seismic zone, revealing little to no motion across the area. The results suggest National Seismic Hazard maps should be revised to reflect lower estimates of earthquake risk, potentially leading to cost savings for new construction.
Astronomers have detected the first observational evidence for hypernova remnants in galaxy M101. The two remnants, MF83 and NGC5471B, are among the largest known supernova remnants and have X-ray luminosities about an order of magnitude brighter than brightest supernovae.
Researchers found that common soil minerals can work with ionizing radiation to break down toxic chlorinated chemicals into simpler compounds. However, this process may produce volatile gases, posing a risk of explosion at storage tanks like Hanford's.
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.