Astronomers found a low-mass companion to a rapidly spinning pulsar, which orbits the neutron star every 54.7 minutes at an average distance of 230,000 miles. The system is thought to have formed billions of years ago and is now accreting mass from the companion, causing an outburst.
Researchers at Weill Cornell Medical College have discovered a crucial mechanism driving the growth of light-sensing discs in rod cells, shedding new light on retinal health and disease. The study's findings could lead to significant advances in understanding and treating eye diseases such as retinitis pigmentosa.
The Lancet Series on Energy and Health emphasizes the need for policies promoting clean energy access to improve public health and mitigate climate disruption. Key targets include universal access to modern fuels, electricity supply, and improved cooking stoves by 2015.
Physicists at UCR have created molecular positronium, which could help develop gamma-ray lasers and explain the universe's matter-antimatter imbalance. The research uses silica to trap positronium atoms, allowing them to form molecules that can interact with each other.
A new study reveals that Pycnogenol, an antioxidant plant extract, lowers ADHD symptoms in children by reducing stress hormones. The findings suggest a significant stress hormone-lowering effect for a nutritional supplement, providing hope for parents seeking alternative treatments.
A study published in Neurology found that people with multiple sclerosis who stop taking natalizumab may develop more brain lesions, indicating increased disease activity. The results suggest that discontinuing the drug can lead to a rebound increase in disease activity, particularly for those who take it for a short time.
Researchers identified single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the adducin 2 gene that influence blood pressure regulation among people with hypertension. The study found associations between SNPs and differential responses to different antihypertensive drugs, highlighting potential for tailored treatment regimens.
Researchers at Tufts University developed mathematical models to accurately assess seasonality in six diseases, enabling more precise forecasting of outbreaks. The study found that certain diseases peak one month after the temperature peak, likely due to close person-to-person contact and different routes of transmission.
The Lancet study highlights the potential of energy efficiency and technology to reduce temperature-related death and illness, as well as alleviate fuel poverty. Implementing renewable energy production and restructuring plans for built environments could lead to significant benefits for urban air quality and health.
The University of California, Irvine, has received a $5 million gift from Edwards Lifesciences to establish a center focused on researching and developing the next generation of cardiovascular devices. The center will promote collaboration among students, faculty members, and experts in various disciplines.
Researchers at Uppsala University have developed a new technique to detect protein communication in cells, which has the potential to revolutionize cancer diagnostics. The refined method is more sensitive and reliable than existing techniques, making it a breakthrough for early cancer detection.
Researchers at UCLA identified a distinct pattern of gene expression in immune cells from chronically lonely individuals. This finding suggests that social isolation affects the activity of genes driving inflammation and may provide a molecular framework for understanding its link to heart disease, viral infections, and cancer.
A study published in BMC Evolutionary Biology found that some protozoa are globally dispersed, while others are geographically restricted, suggesting a moderate degree of endemicity. The analysis used a new fast-evolving DNA marker to reveal higher biodiversity than previously thought.
A new multilingual search tool developed at the University of Washington's Turing Center allows people to search for images on the Web using hundreds of languages. The tool, named PanImages, automatically translates the search term into about 300 other languages and displays images from Google and Flickr.
The Lancet Series on Energy and Health highlights the critical link between energy and health, calling for global control of greenhouse gases and affordable technologies to reduce indoor air pollution. The series advocates for a low-carbon, low-energy transportation system and economic policies that mitigate harmful energy practices.
Researchers identified a distinct subpopulation of cancer stem cells responsible for metastasis in human pancreatic cancer. The study found that CSCs expressing CD133 and CXCR4 play a critical role in tumor metastasis, and inhibiting these cells or transplanting non-metastatic cells can abolish metastatic tumor development.
Researchers at Rice University have discovered a way to load dozens of molecules of the anti-cancer drug paclitaxel onto tiny gold spheres, creating a uniform delivery system that targets cancer cells more effectively. The new approach aims to reduce side effects and improve the effectiveness of chemotherapy.
Scientists have developed a technique to generate light and reduce damage in extreme ultraviolet lithography by adding a lighter gas to the plasma. This reduces the number and energy of xenon ions reaching the collector surface, extending its lifetime while maintaining minimal impact on light production.
UC Berkeley physicists have successfully measured the spin of an individual atom on a surface, a key achievement for both quantum computing and spintronics. By employing low-temperature spin-polarized scanning tunneling spectroscopy, researchers were able to determine the spin of isolated adatoms atop cobalt nanoislands.
The CREATE program aims to build a group of leaders with expertise in plant sciences, biotechnology and engineering, focusing on biofuels, pharmaceuticals and industrial products. Graduate students will receive cross-disciplinary training through internships and a Master's to Ph.D. bridge.
Researchers in Molecular & Cellular Proteomics have identified key proteins involved in schistosomiasis, a tropical disease affecting up to 200 million people. The study also reveals the structural proteome of a lethal shrimp viral disease and unique proteins allowing algae to thrive in salty environments.
Reducing global average meat consumption by 10% could significantly decrease greenhouse gas emissions and associated health risks. The proposed target of 90g per day, with no more than 50g coming from red meat, aims to achieve a balance between food security and environmental sustainability.
A radical vision suggests London could reduce emissions by 72% if all cars are banned and active transport like walking and cycling is prioritized. The proposal offers a solution to achieve the UK's 2030 carbon reduction goal, with benefits for public health and safety.
A new study led by the University of Leeds suggests that extreme climate events did not coincide with Neanderthal extinction, contrary to previous theories. The research provides a more detailed picture of the climate at the time of the Neanderthals' disappearance, suggesting indirect competition with other human groups.
Researchers have identified radial spoke protein 44 (RSP44) as a key molecule in immune infertility, a condition causing the immune system to attack sperm. The discovery may lead to new diagnostic tools and treatments for this condition, which affects up to 12% of unexplained infertility cases in women.
Research from the University of Chicago Press Journals reveals that intense desires, like hunger, lead to a desire for more variety in choices. When hungry, participants preferred fewer familiar snacks over multiple new options.
A new study found that chronically lonely individuals have altered gene-expression patterns, including increased inflammatory signalling. This molecular signature may provide a framework for understanding the link between social isolation and diseases like heart disease, infection, and cancer.
Scientists have discovered that sweet sorghum reuses stored sugar more efficiently than sugarcane to support plant growth. This understanding is crucial for developing new varieties specifically for the biofuel industry.
A study found that inhaling diesel exhaust causes changes in the heart's electrical activity, reducing oxygen availability during exercise. Exposure to diesel exhaust also reduced the body's ability to release a 'guardian' protein, increasing the risk of blood clots.
Researchers found that vowel sounds associated with positive attributes make brand names more favorable among consumers. Front vowel sounds were preferred for fast or sharp objects, while back vowel sounds were preferred for large or dull objects.
The University of South Florida's global health initiative will expand its research training partnerships in India to fight AIDS among adolescents. The program, valued at $1.36 million, will partner with Vadodara Medical College to train Indian physicians and healthcare professionals.
A research team led by UNH will use satellite imagery and data from tick surveillance programs to identify 'hot spots' of Lyme disease transmission. The project aims to build capacity for early warning systems and predict the spread of other vector-borne diseases.
Floods of '93 and '95 devastated 70% of snake populations, with larger snakes and arboreal species faring better. Ecologist Owen Sexton proposes 'islands in the stream' to provide sanctuaries for displaced species during future floods.
The National Science Foundation has awarded Rutgers University $3 million to support bioinformatics and genome sequencing programs for regional high schools. The programs will develop online tools and resources for students to conduct genuine bioinformatics research, bridging the gap between academia and industry.
The study concludes that improved access to electricity and a shift towards renewable energy will substantially benefit population health. Renewable sources like solar, wind, and wave power appear to create the smallest health burden, while nuclear power remains controversial due to waste storage concerns.
Researchers created methods to study millions of stem cells on devices the size of a microscope slide, enabling thousands of individual stem cell experiments to be carried out quickly. A platform was also developed to understand how different genes impact stem cell function or development, allowing for rapid screening of genetic sequen...
A lack of access to clean energy causes 1.6 million premature deaths worldwide from household fuels annually, and 0.8 million from air pollution in cities. Improving energy access through renewable resources has the potential for major health dividends.
A study suggests that increasing active transport, like walking and cycling, can significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 while improving public health. Public policies promoting low-carbon transportation systems can bring substantial health benefits to all populations, especially the poor.
A Weill Cornell study finds that nicotine in cigarettes accelerates atherosclerosis, even at low levels, by activating the sympathetic nervous system and increasing heart rate. Mice exposed to low-nicotine cigarettes showed smaller atherosclerotic lesions than those exposed to regular cigarettes.
Researchers found that disrupting consumers with confusing sales pitches can increase sales by restating in a familiar way, boosting student interest groups and tuition increases. The 'disrupt-then-reframe' technique exploits the need for cognitive closure, making susceptible consumers more likely to freeze their judgments.
A new study by Dartmouth Medical School researchers has identified a crucial pathway for blood stem cell turnover, which could lead to novel strategies for treating rare and aggressive infant leukemia. The research reveals that the Mixed Lineage Leukemia (MLL) gene plays an essential role in maintaining adult blood cells.
Researchers create DNA shells to coat particles' surfaces, allowing for precise control over their structure and properties. The technique enables applications in efficient energy conversion, drug delivery, and environmental monitoring.
Researchers in Australia identify two markers to isolate mesenchymal stem-like cells from endometrial tissue, which can differentiate into various cell types and repair prolapsed pelvic floors. The study opens up possibilities for using these stem cells for pelvic floor prolapse surgery and other gynaecological applications.
Studies have shown that hypertension awareness, treatment, and control are lower among Hispanics compared to non-Hispanics. However, a recent study found that Hispanic men and women responded as well or better than non-Hispanics when treated aggressively with medication. At four years, blood pressure was controlled in 72% of Hispanic w...
Researchers reanalyzed data from the Prostate Cancer Prevention Trial, finding that prostate shrinkage may be responsible for the excess prevalence of high-grade cancer in the drug-treated group. Adjusting for changes in gland size due to finasteride use eliminated all excess high-grade tumors.
Researchers at Stanford University and UCSB found that older men's fertility contributes to human longevity by postponing the date with death. This effect has a spillover impact on women due to gene passing, benefiting the population as a whole.
Researchers will develop a faster, more sensitive biosensor to detect bacterial infections in human clinical fluid samples. The goal is to enable point-of-care diagnostics and aid antibiotic treatment selection within two hours.
A new study published in Annals of Internal Medicine found that preventing or reducing left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) decreases the risk of heart failure in high-blood-pressure patients. The study, led by Dr. Peter Okin, demonstrated a significant reduction in heart failure risk among patients with reduced LVH levels.
A new peanut butter-based program has shown remarkable success in treating severe malnutrition in children in Malawi, with 89% of severely malnourished children and 85% of moderately malnourished children recovering after treatment. The treatment, known as Ready-to-Use Therapeutic Food (RUTF), was implemented at 12 rural health centers...
Prof. Hugh Herr's groundbreaking work in biomechatronics has led to the development of new prosthetic innovations that enhance mobility and quality of life for thousands of people with physical challenges. His research focuses on human amplification and rehabilitation systems, enabling leg amputees to walk faster and more stably.
A study at McGill University Health Centre shows that combining methadone with innovative case management can provide relief for patients with chronic pain. The program, which includes regular phone calls and a pain diary, resulted in 57% of patients being satisfied or very satisfied after nine months.
Researchers found a planet orbiting a star near its end of life, providing insights into the potential fate of our own planet. The discovery suggests that planetary systems can survive the sun's expansion and helium flash, but larger planets may still be vulnerable.
Children’s Hospital Boston researchers have developed a solution to the repeat operations faced by infants and children receiving artificial heart-valve replacements. They created living, growing valves using tissue engineering techniques, which provide one-way blood flow from the heart’s right ventricle into the pulmonary artery.
Three species of Galapagos corals and 74 seaweeds were listed as threatened or Critically Endangered on the IUCN Red List due to climate change and over-fishing. The study highlighted the urgent need for marine conservation practice to address these environmental pressures.
A study by Haipeng Chen and Akshay R. Rao found that 59% of students miscalculated the discount when presented with a base price of $100 and a 20% plus 25% off deal, while those incentivized or presented with easier problems were less prone to errors.
CABI's work with the European Commission significantly reduced methyl bromide usage in the EU, from 5.7 million kg to 0.5 million kg, setting a precedent for global pesticide reduction.
A new microrobotic system for automated microinjection of zebrafish embryos has been developed, allowing for high-speed injection and successful rates close to 100%. The technology enables large-scale molecule screening for genetics and drug discovery applications.
Scientists at Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh have identified a plasmid-deficient strain of Chlamydia that fails to cause disease in animal models. This finding represents a major step forward in developing a vaccine against chlamydial disease, with potential to protect against damage to reproductive organs and infertility.
A new study shows that tamoxifen, a breast cancer medication, dramatically reduces manic symptoms of bipolar disorder more quickly than many standard medications. Tamoxifen blocks an enzyme called protein kinase C, which is thought to be over-active during the manic phase.
Research finds that Staphylococcus aureus bacteria can contaminate hospital surfaces and patient hands through stool samples, increasing the risk of infections. The study also reveals a significant link between intestinal colonization and S. aureus skin presence in hospitalized patients.