Researchers find that naturally occurring atmospheric chemicals react with sunlight to break down smog and pollutants, producing more OH radicals than previously thought. This discovery could improve our understanding of how the atmosphere works and potentially lead to better models for predicting pollution.
The DOE JGI will make freely available 20 billion letters of genetic code through the Community Sequencing Program, targeting key areas like crop improvement, plant biology and renewable energy. This initiative aims to provide valuable insights into crops like sorghum, maize, millet, and sugarcane.
A new world map of plant biodiversity has been published, providing a common geographical standard for global nature conservation strategies. The atlas reveals the most species-rich areas on earth, with Borneo's lowland rainforest standing out as the most diverse, containing around 10,000 plant species.
Young canaries learn atypical songs but recast them into adult canary syntax as they mature. As they approach sexual maturity, rules interfere with the freedom of youth, leading to a reprogramming of their songs.
A recent study of over 8,500 patients discovered that cardiovascular risk factors, particularly albuminuria, can affect renal function even in those without end-stage renal disease. The International Society of Nephrology advocates proactive albuminuria screening to detect renal impairment and cardiovascular risk.
Researchers found that increased LXR expression in the liver improves cholesterol and triglyceride levels on high-fat diets, but loses effect with experimental drugs. The study suggests that targeting natural ligands may be more effective in treating metabolic diseases.
A new study demonstrates that moderate thyroid hormone therapy normalizes cardiac cell shape and reduces stress on the heart's wall by nearly 40%. This change may lead to a novel therapeutic approach for heart failure. Further animal studies are needed before human testing.
A large collaborative analysis of early breast cancer trials found that standard treatments such as chemotherapy and hormonal therapy can halve the 15-year risk of death from breast cancer. The study included data from 145,000 women with early breast cancer in 194 randomised trials.
A randomized study of 829 older adults found that ramelteon significantly reduced time to fall asleep and showed no rebound insomnia. Ramelteon targets the brain's suprachiasmatic nuclei (SCN) and has a new mechanism of action, providing an alternative treatment option for insomnia.
The University of Houston's Sasakawa International Center for Space Architecture is designing a research facility on the Greenland Summit. The UH team will conduct site evaluations and initiate tests of an experimental scale mockup station to refine the design.
Researchers have discovered the structure of a membrane transporter protein used by bacteria and human cancer cells to evade drugs. This finding could lead to improved cancer therapy and more effective treatments for antibiotic-resistant infections. The protein, MsbA, plays a crucial role in bacterial cell growth and is now being studi...
Researchers at Ohio State University discovered that mice brains shrink during winter, impairing spatial memory, while nonspatial learning and memory remain unaffected. The study suggests a possible link between melatonin levels and seasonal changes in brain size and function.
Scientists have found a previously unknown way in which the atmosphere produces substances that break down smog and pollutants into less harmful components. This discovery could lead to a better understanding of how the atmosphere cleanses itself and may improve atmospheric models.
A study by Kira Birditt found that older people are less likely to argue and yell when upset with others. They report fewer interpersonal tensions and use less destructive behaviors, suggesting that they may become better at regulating their responses as they age.
Researchers at NYU Langone Health have developed the first mucosal prion vaccine that protects mice from developing prion disease by up to 500 days. The vaccine uses proteins found on disease-causing organisms and has shown promising results in preventing the progression of prion diseases.
Research suggests that embryonic nutrition can impact health outcomes, with adaptations set in place during fetal development potentially leading to benefits later in life. For example, meadow voles have coats thickened or thinned based on day length exposure in early pregnancy, with no immediate survival value but later benefits.
Researchers at the University of Nevada, Reno have developed a new method to calculate the probability of the San Andreas fault rupturing again within the next 30 years. The study suggests that there is a 20-70% chance of a large quake shaking southern California.
A research team has used genetic techniques to determine the geographic origin of leprosy, a disease that has been stigmatized for centuries. The study found four distinct types of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the bacterium Mycobacterium leprae, which are linked to specific regions and continents.
Researchers at UCLA's Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center have discovered a method to expose the prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA) on cancer cells, making it accessible to blood-borne immunotherapies. This breakthrough could lead to more effective treatments for prostate cancer patients with advanced disease.
Researchers found that women born in March reached menopause at under 49 years, while those born in October waited over 50 years for it to happen. The study suggests prenatal environmental factors can affect a baby's adult life and reproductive health.
The Department of Energy's Pacific Northwest National Laboratory has received nearly $3 million in funding from the NIH to study P. aeruginosa bacteria and the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) family, which are involved in cellular growth and differentiation.
Researchers have precisely identified the pigments used to illustrate seven Gutenberg Bibles using non-invasive analytical techniques. The study provides chemical data that could help preserve and restore these historic treasures, offering insights into printing practices of early Europe.
A broader range of treatments for hyperhidrosis has been found to be effective, including botulinum toxin type A (Botox) and surgery. The study also highlights the importance of understanding the sympathetic nervous system in treating this condition.
Researchers discovered that retinoic acid, vitamin A, buffers asymmetric cues in early-stage embryonic stem cells, enabling them to develop symmetrically. This finding challenges the conventional understanding of how symmetry is established in the human body.
Researchers have developed a new map of life on Earth, which could be used to identify the potential for life on Mars. The map was created by tracing the evolutionary history of microorganisms using genetic sequencing data and shows that ancient microbes inhabited specific habitats, including hydrothermal systems.
A new IU study supports the theory of a sensitive period for optimal language development during early childhood. Children who received cochlear implants earlier in life showed faster language gains and better speech perception skills compared to those who received implants later.
The grant aims to develop smart nanoparticles that can deliver photoactivated molecules to kill tumors while sparing healthy tissue. These nanoparticles will also deliver corrective genes to treat genetic disorders and inhibit viral infections or cancers. The project targets diseases like hemophilia, cancer, and viral infections.
A review of nearly 1.8 million people age 52 and older revealed that hospitalized individuals are more likely to commit suicide. Researchers conclude that hospitalization may be a factor in suicidal tendencies among older adults, with women at increased risk.
Research reveals a correlation between soft drink consumption and childhood obesity risk, highlighting the importance of promoting healthier beverages in schools. Experts emphasize the need for strengthening existing nutrition programs over contracts with soft drink companies to combat this issue.
Cornell University researchers have developed a robot composed of modular cubes, called molecubes, that can self-replicate by bending and attaching to other cubes. This technology has potential applications for space exploration and hazardous work environments, where robots could repair or rebuild themselves with spare modules.
Researcher Patrice G. Guyenet proposes that central chemoreceptors are located in the retrofacial region of the brainstem, loaded with glutamate, to sense pH changes in cerebrospinal fluid. In contrast, Dr. Richerson suggests that these receptors are found near midline blood vessels to 'taste' blood pH levels.
The study reveals that type 2 diabetes now accounts for up to 45% of new cases among adolescents globally. Rising obesity rates are particularly alarming in certain ethnic groups, including Native Americans and Pima Indians, who have the world's highest recorded rate of Type 2 diabetes.
A Massey Cancer Center researcher has identified the atomic structure of angiopoietin-2, a key protein involved in the neo-vascularization of solid tumors. This discovery may lead to better exploration of how to turn off cancer growth signals and identify potential therapeutics.
COPD researchers found a correlation between increased lung inflammation and reduced histone deacetylase activity, which may explain the disease's resistance to steroids. Low doses of theophylline, a tea leaf substance, could help restore HDAC activity and reverse resistance.
A Mayo Clinic study found that bypass grafting surgery significantly improves symptoms of hypothenar hammer syndrome in 78% of patients. The condition affects laborers and can cause pain, cold intolerance, and limited hand function due to damaged ulnar artery blood flow.
Researchers have developed a new X-ray device that can create images of objects from numerous angles without mechanical motion, increasing imaging speed and reducing size. This technology has the potential to lead to smaller, faster, and more accurate X-ray scanners for airport baggage screening and medical imaging.
A new study finds that statin therapy can significantly reduce hospitalization costs and costs of major vascular events. The cost-effectiveness of treatment varies depending on individual risk levels, with lower-risk groups potentially benefiting from statins.
The OHSU study found that ThinkFirst significantly improves knowledge of injury prevention among program participants, leading to a decline in traffic-related fatalities and injuries. The program has educated over 250,000 children on injury prevention since its inception in Oregon.
Gene targeting allows scientists to alter specific genes in cultured cells and transfer them to laboratory mice, enabling the study of human diseases. The technique has revolutionized biomedical research and is now practiced by thousands of scientists worldwide.
NASA has postponed a scheduled satellite launch at Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. The launch, originally set for May 12, will now take place pending favorable weather conditions. NASA TV coverage is available online and via satellite.
Researchers found that primary care providers are equally likely to diagnose and treat depression in older African Americans compared to whites. The study highlights the importance of managing depression in the elderly due to multiple existing illnesses.
The study found that physicians who helped create plans for physical activity and followed up with patients were more likely to see increased physical activity. The physical environment also played a significant role, with active individuals reporting shorter walking times to community facilities.
A new rodent species, Kha-Nyou, has been discovered in Central Laos with distinct characteristics. The species is estimated to have diverged from other rodents millions of years ago and is found to be a nocturnal vegetarian, giving birth to one offspring at a time.
A study of US government financial managers found that timely feedback from supervisors can mitigate stress and encourage ethical action. The majority of respondents reported feeling less stressed when they received regular, constructive feedback on their performance.
A new software program, TWINSCAN, has been developed to predict genetic sequences in nematodes with high accuracy. The program predicts 60% of the genes in the C. elegans genome exactly, right up to the last amino acid, surpassing previous predictions.
A new study reveals that Coronal Mass Ejections (CMEs) can originate from tiny magnetic regions on the Sun, challenging current theories. The research used data from NASA/ESA's SOHO spacecraft and found that these mini-CMEs were energetic enough to reach Earth, causing aurora and disrupting satellite communications.
The American Urological Association has awarded Novartis Pharmaceuticals its annual health science award in recognition of the company's support for the organization's educational, scientific, and research goals. The award acknowledges Novartis' contributions to promoting urologic care through continuing medical education.
A spinoff company has received a $2.5 million NIH grant to build a prototype scanner that can detect early-stage breast cancers with high accuracy, potentially changing medical practice in breast imaging. The scanner uses Cone Beam CT technology to eliminate structural overlap and capture clearer images of small tumors.
Researchers studied flying snakes' flight patterns and found that body length and wave amplitude are key predictors of flight behavior. Paradise tree snakes can travel further horizontally than vertically, making them true gliders.
A Canada-wide team led by Dr. Louise Pilote at the McGill University Health Centre is investigating key unknowns in cardiovascular disease manifestation between men and women. The project will address both biological and genetic factors as well as social and behavioural factors involved in the disease.
NIAID has awarded $27 million to institutions and companies to develop medical countermeasures against Category A bioterror agents, including botulinum toxin and Ebola. The awards will support the development of new treatments and therapies using promising scientific discoveries.
A new mathematical model, PSP, offers improved predictions of transistor behavior, particularly in high-frequency and miniaturized devices. The model, which focuses on surface potential at the silicon-silicon dioxide interface, has been successfully tested on simulations and measurements.
Research reveals that female mosquitofish choose males based on gonopodium size, which is linked to speed and predator avoidance. In contrast, larger genitalia may be favored in predator-free environments where the advantage outweighs the trade-off.
A Dutch study found that non-cardiac drugs affecting heart electrical activity increase sudden cardiac death risk by three times. Anti-psychotics and GI medications were most closely linked to this increased risk.
A Dutch anthropologist's doctoral research on female health workers in Yemen reveals the challenges they face despite their contributions to the healthcare system. The translated thesis provides insight into the backgrounds and motivations of these women, as well as the different agendas and interests at play.
A study found that only 53.9% of Medicaid-enrolled children with elevated blood lead levels received follow-up testing within 180 days. Despite this, many children still had elevated blood levels, underscoring the importance of continued screening and prevention efforts.
Research suggests that obesity can exacerbate asthma due to reduced lung function, chronic inflammation, and hormonal changes. The study found increased levels of pro-inflammatory hormones like leptin in obese individuals with asthma.
Researchers have discovered a way to levitate heavy objects, such as diamonds and precious metals, using a safe mixture of liquid nitrogen and oxygen. This technology has potential applications in mining and pharmaceutical industries.
Research by Mark Hebblewhite links positive NPO values with elk population declines due to severe weather and wolf predation. The Atlantic Ocean climate is driving ecosystem changes, including declines of up to 50% in the Canadian Rockies.
A new study published in Cell Metabolism found that normal metabolism requires so-called "new" fat to maintain glucose, lipid, and cholesterol homeostasis. The researchers discovered that old fat stores alone failed to set critical metabolic pathways in motion, leading to a marked decline in gene activity.