A new laser technique called L.I.F.E. imaging successfully detected bacteria in frozen Antarctic lakes, potentially paving the way for discovering signs of life on Mars.
A study of 8,500 low-income children ages 1-5 found an association between household food insecurity and overweight prevalence. Food-insecure households were more prevalent among girls under 2 years old, but not boys; however, among girls aged 2-5, those from food-insecure households had a 47% higher odds of being overweight.
The 4.4 million-year-old skeleton of Ardipithecus ramidus challenges previous understanding of early human evolution, showing the earliest hominids were bipedal but not as agile in trees as chimpanzees. The discovery also suggests a more amicable relationship among males, with potential for pair-bonded couples and shared food gathering.
A team of Duke and Singapore scientists have discovered a new way to classify gastric cancers based on the signaling pathways used to grow and spread. This new system may lead to more effective treatments and improved long-term survival for patients, as it allows for stratification according to tumor pathway profiles.
Research links CHRNA3 and CHRNA5 genes to increased lung cancer risk in African Americans, despite lower smoking rates. The study, published in Journal of Thoracic Oncology, confirms a stronger association with lung cancer risk than nicotine dependence.
A study by LSUHSC researchers found that unstable carotid artery plaques contain more inflammation and less omega-3 fatty acids than asymptomatic ones. Increasing dietary intake of omega-3 fatty acid-rich foods may prevent strokes or improve treatment safety.
Research from the American Sociological Review reveals racial segregation fuels early achievement disparities between young black and white children. Socioeconomic desegregation alone is not effective in improving classroom performance, and competition for college admissions perpetuates class divide in higher education.
Scientists have developed micrometer-sized capsules that can safely deliver drugs inside living cells. These 'micro shuttles' can be loaded with specific doses and released by biological triggers or light activation, offering a promising solution for managing chronic conditions.
Melor is now a typhoon with sustained winds near 115 knots, tracking northwestward towards Saipan and Rota. The National Weather Service warns of high surf and potential damaging winds for the Northern Marianas Islands.
A McMaster University study found that surgical masks are as effective as N95 respirators in protecting healthcare workers against influenza. The research showed an estimated effectiveness within one percent of the respirator, with no increased rate of infection.
Scientists extend mice lifespan by up to a fifth and reduce age-related diseases through blocking key molecular pathway, mirroring health benefits of calorie restriction. The study suggests that drug treatments targeting the S6K1 pathway may be feasible, building on existing research on calorie restriction's potential for human longevity.
Paired testing, a self-monitored testing approach, enables patients to make informed decisions about their diet and exercise habits. The study found that paired testing can help detect differences between weekend and weekday schedules and habits, facilitating positive patient self-care behaviors.
Researchers have developed a method to control the formation of carbon nanotubes, which can be used as semiconductors or metals. The breakthrough could lead to more powerful, compact and energy-efficient computers and ultra-thin electronic circuits.
The study, involving over 14,656 patients, found that two-thirds of heroin users stopped or reduced their use, while a similar proportion of crack cocaine users did the same. Heroin use decreased by an average of 15 days per month, and crack cocaine use by eight days.
Eight fellows have been selected for the prestigious fellowship program, which aims to encourage autism research as their chosen career path. The fellows will work with leading scientists and receive research training opportunities in various areas of autism spectrum disorders.
Researchers are exploring a groundbreaking method that uses electrical stimulation and exercise to enable paralyzed individuals to walk. The technique, inspired by recent breakthroughs in animal studies, shows promise for those with complete spinal cord injuries.
A study found that male diabetics with higher eosinophil counts in their blood have a stronger link to diabetic nephropathy and increased risk of heart disease. Anti-inflammatory treatments used for allergies may also benefit male patients with diabetes.
Scientists have received £1 million to research the decline of honeybees, focusing on how bees' behavior outside the hive interacts with factors affecting their health. The project aims to build a model that can predict bee responses to diseases in changing farmed landscapes.
A low protein diet boosts mitochondrial function, extending lifespan in flies. This discovery has implications for human aging and diseases such as obesity, diabetes, and cancer.
Researchers track the pattern and timing of a new subduction zone's birth in Fiordland, New Zealand, and analyze eclogites carried to the surface via serpentinite channels. The study also investigates the Yukon-Tanana terrane's crustal growth, finding predominantly crustal recycling with minor juvenile crustal growth.
Researchers found that retinoic acid reduces inflammation in the colon by increasing FOXP3 expression and decreasing IL-17 levels, which could lead to new treatments for ulcerative colitis. This discovery helps scientists understand what causes and controls inflammation in the colon.
Kansas State University assistant professor George Cai has received a $225,000 grant from the National Science Foundation to study supply chain management for the travel industry using online retail outlets like Priceline.com. The research aims to help suppliers and retailers determine optimal pricing and revenue management strategies.
Preliminary evidence suggests that shortened working weeks may further extend increases in life expectancy and health. Disability prevalence has been falling, with increasing evidence suggesting that people are living better despite an increase in chronic diseases.
A study found that 6.5% of ACL surgery patients underwent another knee operation within one year, with women and those treated by low volume surgeons at higher risk for subsequent surgeries. Younger patients under 40 were also more likely to require re-ACL reconstruction.
The American Society for Cell Biology will create an online image library of cell images, videos, and animations. This resource aims to advance science, health, and education by visualizing cellular structure and behavior.
A new study has found that older people taking cholinesterase-inhibiting drugs like donepezil are more likely to be hospitalized for bradycardia, an abnormally slow resting heart rate. This condition can cause serious symptoms such as fainting and shortness of breath.
The study provides the first comprehensive description of Ardipithecus ramidus, revealing a mix of primitive and derived traits. The findings suggest that early hominids lived in woodland environments, climbed on all fours along tree branches, and walked upright on two legs.
The University of Florida will conduct a six-year study on structured physical activity's effect on preventing or delaying major movement disability in older adults. The Lifestyle Interventions and Independence for Elders (LIFE) study seeks to fill the gap in scientific knowledge on exercise's ability to prevent mobility disability.
Vanderbilt University astronomers participate in the Baryon Oscillation Spectroscopic Survey (BOSS) to measure the distance of galaxies and quasars. The team uses 400 simulated universes to test data analysis methods and interpret BOSS's measurements of dark energy.
Researchers at Hiroshima University developed a method to temporarily control HCV levels in patients receiving new livers. Activated immune cells from donor livers were infused into patients, reducing viral activity despite immunosuppressive treatment. Further studies aim to improve this approach.