Researchers discovered the earliest dated evidence of domesticated maize, dating back over 8,700 years to Mexico's Central Balsas River Valley. The team found maize starch and phytoliths in grinding tools and lake sediments, confirming that maize was derived from teosinte.
A new study suggests that when individuals share an identity with a group, they automatically feel positively toward members of that group, regardless of race. This effect was observed just minutes after participants joined a mixed-race group and even without meeting fellow members personally.
The German colonoscopy program has prevented approximately 15,000 cases of colorectal cancer between 2003 and 2010. The program's effectiveness is attributed to the early detection of cancer precursors through endoscopic examinations.
The UC San Diego Jacobs School of Engineering has launched the Bernard and Sophia Gordon Engineering Leadership Center to cultivate effective engineering leaders. The center will offer leadership courses, forums with industry leaders, and challenges for students to design and build products that benefit society.
A new study by Stanford researchers has developed a method to assess the quality of women's eggs, which could enhance IVF success rates. The non-invasive test uses metabolomic profiling to identify unique biomarkers in the eggs that predict embryo viability and pregnancy rates.
Researchers have developed metallic glass alloys with improved fatigue resistance, surpassing conventional metal alloys in both strength and durability. The breakthrough involves introducing a second phase of crystalline metal within the glass, which acts as a local arrest point to prevent crack propagation.
A Purdue University researcher is helping shape plans for a new experiment on the space shuttle Discovery, which will collect data to control deadly friction and heating. The experiment aims to design more efficient spacecraft and hypersonic aircraft.
The study suggests that humans were experimenting with agriculture by cultivating local grains, rather than adopting from southern rice-farming areas. The findings provide insight into the origins of agriculture in northern China.
Dr. Jagadeesh Moodera's groundbreaking research led to the miniaturization of computer hard disc drives and widespread use of laptop computers, earning him the prestigious Oliver E. Buckley prize.
Researchers found that patients with CAD who achieve very low LDL cholesterol levels (≤ 70 mg/dL) and normal systolic blood pressure (≤ 120 mmHg) experience the slowest progression of coronary disease. This study emphasizes the importance of aggressive control of all risk factors to prevent heart disease.
A study by University of Bonn researchers found that the brain's ventro-medial prefrontal cortex is less active when faced with a low-wage scenario, despite being aware of the true purchasing power remaining the same. This confirms the existence of the money illusion and offers insights into its cerebro-physiological processes.
Researchers found that acetylation affects yeast lifespan through the NuA4 enzyme complex, which also controls sugar production in cells. This discovery may have implications for understanding aging and human diseases, as the mechanisms identified are conserved across species.
Two new greenhouse gases, nitrogen trifluoride (NF3) and sulfuryl fluoride (SO2F2), are accumulating in the atmosphere at a rapid rate. These potent gases have significant global-warming potential and are used in industrial processes as alternatives to other harmful gases.
Infrared thermography is a non-destructive testing method that allows researchers to peer several centimeters into the material of wind turbine rotor blades. This technology enables the detection of minor irregularities and delaminated areas that can cause mechanical stresses and lead to premature failure.
A team of researchers from Georgia Tech has identified the genetic machinery responsible for producing thiostrepton, a powerful antibiotic effective against MRSA and vancomycin-resistant enterococci. The discovery sets the stage for genetic manipulations to improve solubility and create new antibacterial agents.
Researchers identified 14 gene variants associated with prolonged QT interval, a known risk factor for sudden cardiac death. Individuals with the top genotype scores were found to have a higher risk of prolonged QT intervals and increased mortality.
Belief in future racial progress and support for policies addressing inequality decreased after the election, while beliefs about racial progress made in the US and Protestant work ethic increased.Obama's election is seen as a symbol of racial progress, distracting from ongoing issues with racial inequity.
Researchers at Florida Institute of Technology have developed a virtual simulation tool that assesses the impact of crowd formation patterns on survival and injury rates during a suicide terrorist attack. The study suggests that following specific crowd formation patterns can reduce fatalities by 12% and injuries by 7%.
Scientists have directly observed a gigantic star blowing up, supporting the idea that massive stars end as black holes. The explosion revealed most of the star's mass collapsed into a dense core, creating an invisible black hole.
International experts propose MEDQUARG guidelines to study counterfeit and poor-quality medicines globally. The guidelines aim to improve the effectiveness of treatment policies by providing a standard for medicine quality surveys.
A new web-based therapy programme, eTIPS, is being tested to help people with psoriasis manage their condition better. The programme uses cognitive behaviour therapy to address the psychological discomfort caused by the visible nature of the condition.
Researchers found ALDH2-deficiency linked to increased esophageal cancer risk from moderate alcohol consumption. Clinicians can identify deficiency through flushing response and counsel patients to reduce drinking.
Researchers have discovered a cellular process that seeks out and fights Type 1 herpes simplex virus. The study, published in Nature Immunology, found that the nuclear membrane of infected cells can unmask the virus and stimulate the immune system to disintegrate it.
Researchers from the University of Leeds used computer modeling to study animal specialization and found evidence supporting the neural limitations hypothesis. This suggests that animals adapt to eat certain foods due to information overload, leading to a loss of ability to process and choose new options.
A new study led by the University of Leicester has found that people with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) have a lower risk of progressing to dementia than previously thought. The research suggests that only 5% of people with MCI develop dementia, contradicting previous estimates of up to 15% per year.
Researchers have successfully isolated human auditory stem cells from fetal cochleae and found they can differentiate into sensory hair cells and neurons. This breakthrough has the potential to develop a new treatment for deafness, with implications for studying ear development and modeling drug screening.
Researchers at Vanderbilt University School of Medicine have discovered that inhibiting an enzyme called 11-beta-HSD2 blocks COX-2 activity in human and mouse colorectal tumor cells, potentially providing a new approach to preventing colorectal cancer. This finding is significant because long-term inhibition of 11-beta-HSD2 did not cau...
A study found that stroke survivors who practiced tai chi improved their balance and reduced the risk of falls. Tai chi is a Chinese martial art that requires concentration and balance control, and can be taught to community centers or parks.
Researchers are developing biomarkers using molecular fingerprints to detect early signs of cancer, such as leukemia, bladder, kidney, and breast cancer. By identifying metabolites that indicate cancer presence and aggressiveness, doctors can tailor optimal treatment and monitor success.
A study using fMRI found that expert advice suppresses brain regions involved in making value judgments, particularly when risk is involved. This 'off-loading' of decision-making can lead to detrimental consequences if the trusted source turns out to be incompetent or corrupt.
Researchers have reported compelling new scientific evidence for the existence of LENR, producing neutrons and excess heat. The study uses an electrode composed of nickel or gold wire to detect subatomic particles released during reactions.
Human astrocytes differ significantly from those in mice and rats, being bigger, faster, and more complex. This discovery has big implications for how our brains process information and suggests a higher cognitive functioning that defines humanity.
A team of Penn biochemists designed a simple and robust oxygen-transporting protein using design principles inspired by nature. They successfully created the protein, which can transport oxygen, using a set of simple design principles.
Researchers at Fraunhofer-Chalmers and ITWM developed a software program that enables designers to virtually install flexible components in new car models. The tool simulates assembly processes, providing concrete advice on component shape changes and optimal installation paths to minimize damage to the car body.
Researchers have developed a new type of DNA with 12 chemical letters, enabling highly parallel amplification of DNA and diagnosis of human diseases. This breakthrough may shed light on the origins of life and personalization of medicine for millions of patients with HIV, hepatitis, and other diseases.
The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation Health & Society Scholars Program has selected 17 new scholars to work on reducing health disparities and improving the nation's healthcare system. The scholars will receive a stipend and be trained to investigate the connections between biological, genetic, behavioral, environmental, economic, and so...
A study published by the American Academy of Neurology found that people with osteoporosis are three times more likely to experience vertigo than those without. Researchers discovered a strong link between low bone density and an increased risk of inner ear disorders, which can cause dizziness.
Scientists at Georgetown University Medical Center have extracted stem/progenitor cells from human testes and converted them back into pluripotent embryonic-like stem cells. These cells can morph into any cell type, offering a potential cure for diseases such as brain neurons or pancreatic tissue.
A recent study found that smoking is associated with an increased risk of acute and chronic pancreatitis. The risk of developing the disease was higher in smokers than non-smokers, regardless of alcohol consumption or gallstone disease.
A team of scientists led by Dolores Piperno has discovered the earliest evidence of maize domestication in the New World, dating back to 8,700 years ago. The research confirms that maize originated from a wild plant called teosinte and was first domesticated in tropical southwest Mexico.
Researchers propose a new model explaining how cancer cells grow and spread, attributing inefficiency to pressure differences between tumor cells and host tissues. Understanding this process is crucial for developing effective treatments for metastatic cancer.
A recent study by ECCO-the European CanCer Organisation analyzed data from the EUROCARE-4 Working Group, revealing a steady rise in cancer survival rates across Europe. The proportion of patients cured of lung, stomach, and colorectal cancers increased significantly between 1988-1990 and 1997-1999.
Researchers at the University of Michigan discovered a tiny protein called HdeA that protects disease-causing bacteria from stomach acid. This protein unfolds and becomes more flexible in response to acid, but unlike other proteins, it activates when unfolded, allowing it to bind and adapt to damaged proteins.
A study published in The Lancet found that whole-body CT scans improved survival rates for patients with severe injuries, with a relative risk reduction of 25% and 13%. The procedure was shown to be an independent predictor of survival.
Researchers mapped copy number variations (CNVs) in African-American and white genomes, finding two duplications with differing frequencies between the groups. The study provides insights into CNV's role in disease and potential neurological disorders.
Researchers have developed a promising new drug treatment, NO-Cbl, which has shown significant anti-tumor efficacy with limited toxicity in dogs with cancer. The treatment uses 'biological Trojan horse technology' to target cancer cells, and could potentially be used in combination regimes to enhance its effectiveness.
A new study published in Epilepsia reveals that surgery for babies and toddlers suffering from epilepsy is relatively safe and effective in controlling seizures. Early surgery may also have a positive impact on brain development.
Researchers have determined that deep-sea corals from Hawaii are much older than previously thought, with some species estimated to be around 2,740 and 4,270 years old. The longest-lived coral is believed to be the deep-water black coral, which has been continuously growing its skeleton for millennia.
Researchers used organotypic skin cultures to study PPAR-beta/delta's role in skin cell communication. They found that PPAR-beta/delta regulates crosstalk between skin layers, controlling proliferation rates and preventing excessive growth.
Dr. Manik Talwani, president of the Integrated Ocean Drilling Program Management International (IODP-MI), has been awarded the German Medal of Honor in geophysics. He was recognized for his work on gravity measurements, particularly on the moon, and his contributions to ocean drilling research.
University of Adelaide researchers developed a model predicting mosquito population peaks, aiding in disease outbreak prevention by allowing for targeted mosquito control. The study analyzed 15 years of data on Aedes vigilax populations, linking environmental factors to peak timing and magnitude.
Raphael Haftka and C.T. Sun will receive the AIAA-ASC James H. Starnes, Jr. Award for their pioneering work on optimization techniques for composite structures and mentoring of students. The award acknowledges their significant contributions to structural mechanics over an extended period.
Scientists have discovered that Salmonella uses a secretion system to protect itself inside amoeba, allowing it to survive and multiply. This finding has significant implications for controlling the spread of Salmonella in water supplied to animals.
A detailed malaria risk map published by the Wellcome Trust shows that three-quarters of the world's high-risk areas have low transmission rates, making malaria control more feasible. The map, developed using state-of-the-art technology, pinpoints malaria risk to an unprecedented resolution of 25km2.
The CellThera/WPI team will continue their joint efforts in regenerating mammalian muscle tissue under a one-year $570,000 DARPA contract. They aim to reprogram and engineer cells to replace damaged skeletal muscle and restore normal function.
Russell Mittermeier, a leading expert on biodiversity and ecosystem conservation, will deliver the Roger Tory Peterson Memorial Lecture at Harvard University. He has been recognized for his critical work on biodiversity hotspots and species conservation, offering hope for the future of conservation efforts.
Researchers found evidence of maize and squash domestication in the Xihuatoxtla Shelter in southwestern Mexico, dating back 9,000 years. The findings contradict previous assumptions that maize domestication occurred in highland areas.
Scientists have found that rising CO2 levels can stimulate plant productivity and increase marsh surface elevation, potentially increasing the capacity of coastal wetlands to tolerate relative rises in sea level. However, this effect may be short-lived as increased CO2 levels continue to accelerate global warming and sea-level rise.
A U of Minnesota study finds that fear and romantic desire can dramatically change how people make decisions, with fear leading to conformity and romance motivating uniqueness. This discovery has implications for marketing and advertising strategies.
Physicists at Michigan Technological University have calculated electron affinities for all 15 lanthanide elements, filling in long-standing gaps on the periodic table. The complex atomic structure of lanthanides made it challenging to calculate their electron affinities due to varying subshell configurations and complex variables.
Researchers report increasing promise for natural gas hydrates, frozen form of natural gas, as abundant source of clean, sustainable energy. Gas hydrates could supplement traditional energy sources linked to global warming, providing bridge to cleaner fuel sources like hydrogen and solar energy.
Researchers at MIT have developed a new material called graphene that can enable microchips to operate at much higher speeds than current silicon chips. The new technology uses a single transistor and produces a clean output signal, leading to faster computers and cellphones.
Spartin localizes to lipid droplets and binds to TIP47, regulating their turnover. Overexpressing or knocking down Spartin causes an increase in LD size and number.
Researchers found that socially isolated mice suffered more brain damage and higher inflammation levels after a stroke compared to paired mice. Social support was shown to reduce damaging inflammatory responses and increase anti-inflammatory cytokines in the brain.
A research and outreach system developed over 50 years has shown significant economic benefits in managing the soybean aphid, a destructive pest that stunts plant growth and transmits viruses. The integrated pest management approach is expected to generate an annual rate of return of 180 percent.
A CDC analysis reveals that a multifaceted MRSA prevention program employing positive deviance techniques triggered significant reductions in MRSA incidence, ranging from 26 to 62 percent. The hospitals also saw a decline in methicillin-resistant infections, demonstrating progress in the fight against drug-resistant superbugs.
Scientists warn that East Asians who drink heavily may be at increased risk of esophageal cancer due to an enzyme deficiency. Heavy drinking in these individuals can lead to a significant increase in the risk, particularly among those with two copies of the inactive gene variant.
Researchers at Caltech developed 15 new highly stable fungal enzyme catalysts that efficiently break down cellulose into sugars at high temperatures. This breakthrough is crucial for creating cost-efficient processes to extract sugars from cellulose, a key material in producing renewable fuels like ethanol or butanol.
Recent DNA duplications occurred 65 million years ago, coinciding with the last mass extinction event. Plants with duplicated genomes were better adapted to survive dramatic environmental changes.
Researchers at Rensselaer will investigate the role of specific genes and biological molecules in human stem cell function. They aim to understand how to control stem cell development using a range of new technologies.
A study of over 3,000 women found that physical abuse from intimate partners results in significantly higher healthcare costs, with a 42% increase in annual spending compared to non-abused women. Women who experienced ongoing physical abuse had the highest health care costs.
Researchers found that inhibiting an enzyme called 11-beta-HSD2 blocks COX-2 activity, preventing colorectal cancer growth and metastasis. Long-term inhibition did not cause side effects on the heart and blood vessels.
Research suggests that air pollution is a significant contributor to heart disease, particularly among the elderly, those with coronary artery disease, diabetics, women, and obese individuals. Exposure to particulate matter can increase blood pressure, activate enzymes that cause plaque rupture, and lead to a heart attack.
A study published in Archives of Internal Medicine found that high triglyceride levels are common in the US population, affecting 33.1% of participants. Lifestyle interventions, such as physical activity and weight management, are recommended as the primary treatment for hypertriglyceridemia.
Researchers have discovered a promising strategy to break down Pseudomonas biofilms, which form in cystic fibrosis patients and cause lung damage. A negatively charged molecule called aspartic acid polymer can disrupt the molecular bonds that hold together these difficult-to-treat infections.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine found that demethylation, the removal of chemical bonds from cancer-promoting genes, can trigger more than half of all cancers. Demethylating drugs used to treat some cancers may actually cause new cancers as a side effect, warns Dr. Joseph Califano.
A new surgical technique, lymphaticovenular bypass, shows promise in reducing lymphedema fluid by up to 39% in breast cancer patients. The minimally invasive procedure is a viable option for managing the condition, which affects up to 30% of women after surgery and radiation therapy.
Researchers at Caltech have discovered a tiny genetic mutation that prevents nicotine from binding to muscle cells' acetylcholine receptors. This subtle difference explains why nicotine is virtually powerless in muscle cells despite being highly addictive in the brain.
A systematic review of 16 studies found proteinuria to be a poor predictor of adverse outcomes. However, a slight association was observed with stillbirths at a proteinuria level of 5g in 24 hours.
A new study suggests that listening to pleasant music can improve visual awareness in stroke patients with impaired visual neglect. The study found that patients could identify coloured shapes and red lights more accurately while listening to their preferred music compared to silence or music they did not like.
The study provides a comprehensive map of global malaria endemicity, revealing areas where malaria control can be improved and areas where elimination may be possible. The map uses model-based geostatistics to incorporate data from local surveys, providing an important resource for policymakers and researchers.
Researchers found that Mycobacterium tuberculosis converts NO2 to NO using coenzyme F420, protecting itself from oxidative damage. This defense mechanism allows the bacteria to survive in the human immune system and stay dormant until the system is weakened.
Oral vitamin D supplements significantly reduce non-vertebral fractures by 14% and hip fractures by 9% in adults 65 or older. Higher doses of vitamin D (above 400 IU/day) show greater fracture reduction, especially among individuals with higher blood vitamin D levels.
A significant decline in US vitamin D levels has been reported, with serious consequences including increased cancer and heart disease risks. The study suggests that higher doses of vitamin D supplementation may be necessary to address this growing epidemic.
Researchers found that inhibiting the enzyme 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 2 (11βHSD2) with licorice extract or by silencing its gene prevents colorectal cancer progression in mice. This approach produces effects specific to the colon and kidney, unlike existing preventive therapies.
A study found that children and siblings of individuals with venous thrombosis have a higher risk of developing the condition. Family history was associated with a more than two-fold increase in risk, even if no known genetic factors were present.
The DOE Office of Science will receive $1.2 billion in funding to support major construction, laboratory infrastructure, and research initiatives. This investment will create thousands of jobs and accelerate new technology development, while modernizing the nation's scientific infrastructure.
Ross Finman, a junior in electrical and computer engineering, has won the $10,000 National Space Club Award for pursuing studies in science or engineering. The award recognizes his hard work and dedication to advancing scientific knowledge through space research and exploration.
A study of over 500,000 individuals found that high red meat consumption was associated with a higher risk of death from all causes, cancer, and heart disease. In contrast, higher intake of white meat appeared to be linked to a slightly decreased risk for overall death and cancer death.
A distinct alpha-wave pattern occurs just before subjects make mistakes on attention-demanding tests, suggesting a potential method for monitoring attention and predicting errors. The discovery could lead to practical applications in air traffic control and new therapies for children with ADHD.
A study of 4,060 adult patients with diabetes found that on-demand scheduling did not improve outcomes compared to traditional scheduled visits. The study suggests that timely follow-up for chronic disease management may be compromised by on-demand scheduling.
UIC researchers are conducting a study to determine the health effects associated with recreational activities on Chicago's waterways. The CHEERS study will establish water quality standards for people who enjoy activities on the waterway and measure actual pathogens in the water that cause disease.
Researchers developed new 'paldoxins' that block fungal enzymes, boosting plants' natural defenses and overcoming fungal attacks. These environmentally friendly fungicides could protect crops like corn, wheat, and soybeans from disease-causing fungi.
A new approach to treating bone loss, which blocks Wnt signaling pathway inhibitors, may increase the risk of bone cancer. This method is associated with dysregulated Wnt signaling, linked to several cancers.
A new book by Louise Nelson Dyble uncovers corruption and lack of transparency in the Golden Gate Bridge and Highway District, a special district responsible for infrastructure spending. The district's history is seen as a case study of how bureaucratic power can lead to accountability issues.
A study of over 1,000 CAD patients found that high PLTP levels increased the risk of heart attack in statin users. Elevated PLTP levels may blunt statin benefits, according to researchers.
A study published in PNAS found that the genetic toolkit for fin and limb development is linked to gill skeleton formation in sharks. This discovery provides evidence for an evolutionary connection between fins, limbs, and gills., The research suggests that common developmental programs patterned different anatomical structures.
A new analysis of 22 years of research shows that teams tend to discuss information they already know, and that 'talkier' teams are less effective. However, teams perform better when sharing new information and engaging in tasks where they come up with a correct answer rather than a consensual solution.