ScienceDaily: Top Health News

Comprehensive RNA-Atlas

Posted: 17 Jun 2021 01:37 PM PDT

By cleverly combining complementary sequencing techniques, researchers have deepened our understanding of the function of known RNA molecules and discovered thousands of new RNAs. A better understanding of our transcriptome is essential to better understand disease processes and uncover novel genes that may serve as therapeutic targets or biomarkers.

Beneficial bacteria can be restored to C-section babies at birth

Posted: 17 Jun 2021 01:36 PM PDT

Babies born by Cesarean section don't have the same healthy bacteria as those born vaginally, but a new study finds that these natural bacteria can be restored.

Thin, stretchable biosensors could make surgery safer

Posted: 17 Jun 2021 01:36 PM PDT

A research team has developed bio-inks for biosensors that could help localize critical regions in tissues and organs during surgical operations.

If you ride an e-scooter, take safety precautions

Posted: 17 Jun 2021 01:35 PM PDT

New research shows that nearly 28% of all electric scooters reported injuries were head and neck injuries.

First months decisive for immune system development

Posted: 17 Jun 2021 11:36 AM PDT

Many diseases caused by a dysregulated immune system, such as allergies, asthma and autoimmunity, can be traced back to events in the first few months after birth. To date, the mechanisms behind the development of the immune system have not been fully understood. Now, researchers show a connection between breast milk, beneficial gut bacteria and the development of the immune system.

New method could reveal what genes we might have inherited from Neanderthals

Posted: 17 Jun 2021 08:55 AM PDT

Using neural networks, researchers have developed a new method to search the human genome for beneficial mutations from Neanderthals and other archaic humans. These humans are known to have interbred with modern humans, but the overall fate of the genetic material inherited from them is still largely unknown. Among others, the researchers found previously unreported mutations involved in core pathways in metabolism, blood-related diseases and immunity.

A remote control for gene transfer

Posted: 17 Jun 2021 08:55 AM PDT

Researchers develop technology to introduce genes into single cells in a targeted manner.

Prototype may diagnose common pregnancy complications by monitoring placental oxygen

Posted: 17 Jun 2021 07:12 AM PDT

Researchers have developed a prototype device that could potentially diagnose pregnancy complications by monitoring the oxygen level of the placenta. The device sends near-infrared light through the pregnant person's abdomen to measure oxygen levels in the arterial and venous network in the placenta.

Induced hypothermia after cardiac arrest did not improve survival

Posted: 17 Jun 2021 07:12 AM PDT

Since 2005, the guidelines for the care of unconscious cardiac arrest patients have been to cool the body temperature down to 33 degrees Celsius. A large, randomized clinical trial has now shown that this treatment does not improve survival.

Numerical study reveals origin of 'motion of the ocean' in the straits of Florida

Posted: 17 Jun 2021 07:12 AM PDT

Using a numerical model that simulates ocean currents, researchers are shedding light on the important ''motion of the ocean'' in the Straits of Florida. They have conducted a first-of-its-kind study identifying the mechanisms behind the formation of sub-mesoscale eddies, which have important environmental implications and play a significant role in the health of the Florida Keys coral reef ecosystem.

Study identifies trigger for 'head-to-tail' axis development in human embryo

Posted: 17 Jun 2021 05:27 AM PDT

Scientists have identified key molecular events in the developing human embryo between days 7 and 14 -- one of the most mysterious, yet critical, stages of our development.

Focus on emotions is key to improving heart health in people living with obesity

Posted: 17 Jun 2021 05:27 AM PDT

People living with obesity who attended a non-judgemental and personalized lifestyle modification program improved their cardiovascular and mental health during just 10 weeks, according to a new study. Participants lost weight and achieved benefits in anxiety and depression and physical measurements including blood pressure.

Simple urine test may help early detection of brain tumors

Posted: 17 Jun 2021 05:27 AM PDT

A recent study revealed that microRNAs in urine could be a promising biomarker to diagnose brain tumors. Their findings have indicated that regular urine tests could help early detection and treatment of brain tumors, possibly leading to improved patient survival.

Children with asymptomatic malaria a 'hidden risk' to disease control efforts

Posted: 16 Jun 2021 04:15 PM PDT

The role of people infected with malaria without showing symptoms presents a hidden risk to efforts to control the disease after they were found to be responsible for most infections in mosquitoes, according to a new study.

Scientists unravel the function of a sight-saving growth factor

Posted: 16 Jun 2021 04:15 PM PDT

Researchers have determined how certain short protein fragments, called peptides, can protect neuronal cells found in the light-sensing retina layer at the back of the eye. The peptides might someday be used to treat degenerative retinal diseases, such as age-related macular degeneration (AMD).

A distinctive inflammatory signature found in a genetic form of ALS

Posted: 16 Jun 2021 11:31 AM PDT

Researchers find an increase in inflammatory molecules in serum and cerebrospinal fluid of C90RF72 patients, informing future anti-inflammatory therapies.