African naked mole-rats live in colonies where only the queen reproduces, suppressing fertility in females and males around her through bullying. This stress-induced block to puberty is thought to affect hormone regulation and reproductive tract development. Understanding the mechanisms behind this social suppression could lead to insi...
Scientists create whole genome maps of chromatin in embryonic stem cells, revealing a special code that underlies cell identity. The study provides a framework for mapping the complete chromatin landscape of almost any kind of cell.
Scientists have discovered a direct connection between stress and obesity, revealing that neuropeptide Y can 'unlock' fat cells. Blocking the Y2 receptor may prevent fat growth or even kill fat cells.
A study by Timothy Salthouse found that cognitive scores vary significantly within test-takers as between age groups, raising questions about the validity of single test scores. Repeating tests over a short period may provide a more accurate range of scores, improving diagnostic workups.
Scientists at the University of Exeter have discovered a rapid brain mechanism that helps people avoid repeating previous errors. This 'early warning signal' is triggered in just 0.1 seconds after making an incorrect prediction, allowing individuals to learn from their mistakes and make better decisions in the future.
Researchers developed a new way to predict when vegetation dries to its most vulnerable state to large-scale fires in the Santa Monica Mountains near Los Angeles. The study found that global warming has not caused any apparent long-term trend toward early fire seasons in the area.
A study led by University of Cincinnati scientists has found that the RON receptor is overexpressed in pancreatic cancer cells, suggesting a link between the receptor and disease development. The researchers believe blocking the receptor's signaling pathways could lead to new therapies for this deadly disease.
Researchers at Georgetown University Medical Center have found a mechanism to manipulate fat in targeted areas using simple chemical injections. This breakthrough could lead to better control of metabolic syndrome and revolutionize human cosmetic and reconstructive plastic surgery.
Scientists successfully extracted and froze eggs from ovarian tissue of girls as young as 5 years old, a breakthrough in preserving fertility in young cancer patients. The study found an average of 8.5 eggs per patient, with a 32% success rate in maturing the eggs in vitro.
A team of scientists, led by UCSF's Brian Shoichet, successfully translated the structure of an enzyme into its function. By modifying a molecular docking technique, they predicted the natural molecule that triggers enzyme action, confirming the approach's potential to determine how key enzymes work in the body.
Researchers using Loop Quantum Gravity theory find a contracting universe before the Big Bounce, with space-time geometry similar to today's. A new mathematical model allows for precise analytical solutions and reveals a 'cosmic forgetfulness' due to extreme quantum forces during the Big Bounce.
Researchers found that even moderate exposure to cat allergen resulted in significantly greater responsiveness among individuals with any sensitization. The study suggests that reduced exposure to cats may be beneficial for allergic individuals, regardless of their specific allergies.
Scientists have developed a method to insert unnatural amino acids into living mammalian cells, allowing for precise control over protein structure and function. This breakthrough enables the study of previously inaccessible biological questions, such as the mechanism of ion channels in nerve cells.
Researchers have identified Interleukin-12 (IL-12) as a vital molecule for resistance to food allergy. By delivering an allergen in the presence of IL-12, allergic reactions could be brought under control, potentially providing a new treatment option.
A study of over 100,000 patients found that suicide attempts decreased during the first month of treatment for depression, regardless of medication or therapy type. Patients who received antidepressant prescriptions from psychiatrists were more likely to attempt suicide than those who received them from primary care doctors.
A study found that combining endobronchial ultrasound (EBUS) and electromagnetic navigation bronchoscopy (ENB) increases diagnostic yield in peripheral lung lesions. The procedure achieved a sensitivity comparable to surgical biopsies, with a 88% diagnostic yield, while reducing complications.