A team of Boston College and MIT scientists has discovered a new class of exceptionally effective catalysts that promote the powerful olefin metathesis reaction, opening up a vast new scientific platform. The new catalysts provide unprecedented control and selectivity for complex chemical reactions.
Scientists have identified new species of bacteria that can grow at low temperatures and spoil raw milk even when refrigerated. The discovery highlights the complex microbial population of raw milk and underscores the importance of developing tools to monitor cold-tolerant bacteria.
Glioblastoma cells release exosomes containing RNA and proteins that promote tumor growth, but also carry data that can be used to guide targeted therapy. The study identified factors in these exosomes that could be used as biomarkers to monitor treatment response.
Research finds that PEA-15 protein forces ovarian cancer cells to eat themselves, leading to increased median survival time. High levels of PEA-15 are linked to improved patient outcomes and may offer a new dimension for targeting ERK in cancer therapy.
Children with social and academic problems in elementary school are more likely to engage in serious violent behavior later, due to parents withdrawing supervision and friends with deviant behavior. Successful early intervention can redirect paths of antisocial development to prevent violent behavior.
Scientists discovered a key step in HIV's attack on brain cells and were able to reverse its effects by blocking the receptor. The discovery opens up a new avenue for researchers to explore in preventing or treating HIV's neurological effects, which have no currently approved treatment.
John O'Keefe received the Gruber Foundation Neuroscience Prize for his groundbreaking 'place cell' research, which enabled animals to map and remember locations. His work has influenced recent studies on memory loss and Alzheimer's disease.
A recent discovery in Ethiopia's Gona region has challenged previous estimates of Homo erectus infant head size, indicating a possible increase in brain capacity. The findings, published in Science, suggest that the ancient human ancestor may have been born with brains comparable to those of modern humans.
Researchers point to historical events like the collapse of the City of Glasgow Bank in 1878 as a guide for addressing current banking crises. The UK's Financial Services Authority is recruiting more staff and considering stricter regulation, with experts emphasizing the need for effective policing of new regulations.
A study of gibbon foot movements suggests that early humans may have used elastic energy storage mechanisms to walk efficiently. The gibbon's flexible foot allows for more efficient energy storage and release, similar to the human foot.
Researchers at LSU Health Sciences Center have identified microRNA-146a as a crucial regulator of inflammation and disease-related neuropathology in Alzheimer's disease. The study found that miRNA-146a targets the messenger RNA of an anti-inflammatory regulator, promoting brain cell inflammation.
A $1.7 million study will investigate how the body metabolizes ecstasy, a 'hug drug' with serious negative effects on brain function. The research aims to identify individuals at risk of long-term adverse effects from the drug.
A longitudinal study found that characteristics in four social environments—families, peers, schools, and neighborhoods—contribute to adolescent alcohol misuse. The study highlights the importance of examining connections between all social environments and suggests a more inclusive view of adolescent social worlds.
Researchers at the University of Iowa have developed a method to estimate photosynthetic uptake by plants over large regions, improving accuracy of global warming and land cover change estimates. By analyzing carbonyl sulfide levels, scientists can quantify human-generated CO2 emissions and develop better management strategies.
Astronauts on the International Space Station successfully performed remotely-guided sonograms using a ground-to-space communication system. The study's findings demonstrate the feasibility of sonography in microgravity environments and could lead to new applications in space medicine.
A new study found that children distressed by family fighting have higher cortisol levels, a stress hormone. This increase in cortisol may explain why children experiencing high levels of distress during parental conflicts are more likely to develop psychological problems.
Researchers at Harvard University have demonstrated that metal nanoparticles in a periodic array can exhibit narrower spectral widths, improving the sensitivity of detecting molecules at low concentrations. By optimizing electromagnetic interactions between particles, the method can enhance spectroscopy and biosensors.
A new study found that children's stress hormone cortisol levels increase from morning to afternoon in full-day child care, depending on the quality of their relationship with caregivers. Children with more clingy or conflicted relationships with teachers showed greater rises in cortisol.
Columbia University Irving Medical Center honors Dr. Bruce Spiegelman with the Naomi Berrie Award for his groundbreaking work on metabolic pathways of obesity and diabetes research. Dr. Spiegelman's discoveries have identified key molecules critical in fat cell differentiation, insulin resistance, and energy expenditure. Meanwhile, jun...
Research found that childhood experiences can lead to minor behavior problems, which grow into violent acts in teens. Successful interventions like parent training and social skills training can redirect these paths.
Physicists at UCL and the London Centre for Nanotechnology have made a significant discovery in quantum computing, extending the quantum lifetime of electrons by over 5,000%. This achievement brings researchers closer to building a usable quantum computer. The study used a powerful magnetic field to align electron spins, providing a cr...
Arbor Vita Corporation presented new data on its rapid, point-of-care prototype HPV test with a high positive predictive value for cervical cancer and pre-cancer detection. The test detects the E6 oncoprotein produced by human papillomavirus (HPV), which is a diagnostic marker of high positive predictive value.
Researchers at WashU Medicine developed a gene chip technology to detect pneumonia in ICU patients on ventilators, identifying 52 cases in a large-scale study. The technology uses a 85-gene riboleukogram to monitor changes in immune response before clinical symptoms develop.
A new study by University of Maryland sociologists finds that unhappy people watch significantly more TV than very happy individuals, who prefer reading and socializing. The study analyzed 30 years of national data and found that TV viewing can provide short-term pleasure but has less positive effects in the long run.
Researchers have discovered a previously unknown cell pathway that drives a lethal subtype of breast cancer, disproportionately affecting African American women. The study may lead to the development of new targeted therapies for this aggressive cancer type.
A new program, REDI Head Start, combines pre-reading skills with social-emotional learning to foster preschoolers' academic and social success. Children in the REDI program outperformed those in traditional programs on tests of emotional development, impulsivity, aggression, and reading skills.
A new imaging database of chick embryos will map gene expression during the first 10 days of development, providing insights into diseases like spina bifida and cancer. The £2.6 million initiative aims to understand why developmental problems occur.
Human factors researchers suggest adding engine noise to quiet hybrid cars to improve pedestrian safety. Participants rated automotive engine sounds as the most preferred category, followed by white noise and hum.
The Neuroscience Information Framework (NIF) is a dynamic inventory of web-based neurosciences data, resources, and tools. The NIF enables discovery and access to public research data and tools worldwide through an open source, networked environment.
A longitudinal study found that frequent moves during 2nd to 5th grade can lead to declines in academic performance and classroom participation. However, having a supportive teacher who encourages peer acceptance can help children make a smooth transition. The study suggests that teachers play a critical role in mitigating the negative...
Researchers identified two genes that sensitize lymphoid progenitor cells to the effects of aging and confer resistance to leukemogenesis. These genes regulate cell cycle progression and mediate senescence and tumor suppression in aged cells.
A research-based program, REDI, was found to improve both academic and social-emotional areas in children participating in Head Start. The study, published in Child Development, showed that REDI's dual-focus approach effectively promoted gains in vocabulary, pre-reading skills, emotional understanding, and social competence.
A study by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons found that malnutrition significantly increases surgical complications in massive weight loss patients. Pre-surgery nutritional supplements can accelerate wound healing, improve scar quality, and boost patient energy levels, according to the ASPS.
A new survey reveals that more than half of US chronically ill adults skip necessary care due to financial constraints. The study also finds high rates of medical errors, poorly coordinated care, and long waits for primary care physicians.
New research reveals that alkaline pH activates TRPA1 protein in human cell lines and mouse nerve cells, causing pain sensation. The study suggests a potential link between TRPA1 activation and human alkaline pH-related pain sensations, contributing to the understanding of pain mechanisms.
Researchers found that proton therapy with concurrent chemotherapy significantly reduced bone marrow toxicity in patients with locally advanced non-small cell lung cancer, improving treatment efficacy and patient outcomes. The study suggests proton therapy as a safer option for vulnerable patients, including children and the elderly.
Researchers found that small habitat patches, when connected in a network, can support species requiring larger habitats and facilitate movement between patches. This approach offers a promising tool for preserving ecological functions in fragmented landscapes.
Gemini Observatory's groundbreaking discovery reveals two planets orbiting a young, massive star called HR 8799. The system consists of three planets, including the 'first family' member, which are still glowing from heat released as they contracted, and are about seven and ten times the mass of Jupiter.
A study found that patients with locally advanced lung cancer who received proton therapy and chemotherapy had fewer instances of bone marrow toxicity compared to those receiving IMRT and chemotherapy. This suggests that proton therapy may be a more effective option for treating this serious side effect, enabling doctors to give higher...
Scientists have discovered an enzyme that can convert sugars into a precursor of acrylic glass, a plastic used in various applications. This breakthrough could make the production of acrylic glass more environmentally friendly and potentially increase its demand in the coming years.
A study found that African-American patients with non-small cell lung cancer have a higher copy number of the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) gene, predicting better long-term outcomes when taking erlotinib and gefitinib. Few EGFR mutations were observed, highlighting the need for more research in this patient population.
Silicon nanowires show highly repeatable nucleation process, allowing for predictable growth and design of electronic systems. The research could enable the continuation of Moore's law by providing a new manufacturing method for nanowire-based electronics.
Researchers have captured the first-ever images of three giant planets orbiting the star HR 8799. The planets, each about ten times the mass of Jupiter, have complex atmospheres with dusty clouds that trap and re-radiate heat.
Fox Chase researchers create bispecific antibody ALM that attacks two signaling proteins on breast cancer cell surfaces, halting growth. The molecule could deliver therapeutic drugs directly to cancer cells or aid in early detection.
Researchers discover a single gene, FLO1, that enables yeast cells to cooperate and protect each other from stress and harm. Cells expressing FLO1 form flocs, shielding inner cells from danger while excluding 'cheaters' that do not express the gene.
A phase III clinical trial found that adding bevacizumab to erlotinib therapy improves progression-free survival in advanced non-small cell lung cancer patients, but not overall survival. The combination also shows a response rate and tumor shrinkage.
A team of astronomers has discovered three planets in orbit around the young star HR 8799, using advanced computer processing techniques to separate them from the star's light. The planets are found to possess complex atmospheres with dusty clouds partially trapping and re-radiating escaping heat.
Researchers successfully inseminated a female rhinoceros with frozen and thawed semen, resulting in the first live birth of this kind. The achievement holds great promise for preserving endangered species populations.
Developing antibodies to cockroach and mouse proteins increases the risk of wheeze, hay fever, and eczema in young children. The study highlights the importance of reducing exposure to these allergens at a very early age for susceptible children.
A new microbe, discovered in the open ocean, lacks genes needed for photosynthesis, yet provides natural fertilizer to the oceans by fixing nitrogen. Its unique metabolism may have implications for understanding carbon and nitrogen cycles in ocean ecosystems.
A new research study at Cardiff University aims to understand and regulate a patient's immune response to infections, which is crucial for treating end-stage kidney disease. The three-year grant will enable the multidisciplinary team to investigate the consequences of bacterial infection on patients with peritoneal dialysis.
Researchers at the University of Chicago have successfully induced slower cooling of electrons in nanocrystals, a breakthrough that could improve laser devices and photovoltaic technology. This effect is expected to increase bandwidth for communication satellites and lead to more efficient solar power generation.
Researchers will screen different types of algae to learn which species produce the most oil and grow them in large numbers to produce biodiesel. Algae have benefits that make farming them easier on growers, such as being able to use non-prime agricultural land and water not suitable for food crops.
Individuals carrying the APOE4 variant have a greater risk of developing Alzheimer's disease due to slower A-beta clearance from the brain. The study found that A-beta binding to apoE4 led to substantially slower clearing of A-beta, contributing to increased disease risk.
A UK study reveals that most children are meeting physical activity guidelines, but failing to eat five pieces of fruit and vegetables a day. The study found that socioeconomic background plays a significant role in dietary habits, with children from lower-income backgrounds more likely to consume healthy foods.
A study found that high-normal phosphate levels are associated with increased calcium in coronary arteries, a key indicator of atherosclerosis. The research suggests that phosphate levels may represent a previously unidentified cardiovascular risk factor.
Scientists at NIST have discovered a new class of iron-based high-temperature superconductors that exhibit unusual behavior under pressure, suggesting a possible alternative mechanism behind superconductivity. The discovery could lead to the development of higher-temperature superconductors with improved properties.
A new IBS treatment developed at University at Buffalo has received $8.5 million to conduct a seven-year, multi-site clinical trial of the program. The trial will test the long-term effectiveness of a self-administered cognitive behavior therapy program and assess its impact on quality of life.
Researchers found that cigarette smoke exposure in rats leads to significant changes in the left ventricle's shape and increased levels of activated enzymes. Norepinephrine levels also rise in response to cigarette smoke, suggesting a link between stress hormone release and cardiovascular damage.
Researchers at Kansas State University have developed a method to control the motion of electrons in a hydrogen molecule using ultrafast laser pulses. This breakthrough could lead to the creation of custom-made chemical compounds and a deeper understanding of basic physics processes.