Tropical Storm Kompasu is becoming extratropical as it moves northeastward towards northern Japan. The storm had maximum sustained winds near 56 mph, but they were waning at 1500 UTC on September 2.
A special issue of CBE—Life Sciences Education journal introduces new ways to integrate mathematical thinking into biology education and vice versa. The articles explore teaching modeling, DNA microarray analysis, fractal geometry, and more to bridge the gap between math and biology skills.
A recent study funded by the Lupus Research Institute has discovered a link between an X-linked TLR7 gene variant and an increased risk of developing lupus in men. The research, published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, provides strong evidence that alterations in the TLR7 gene can promote lupus in humans.
Researchers at Caltech have developed a simple technique using graphene to visualize the structure of molecules at the atomic scale. The technique reveals new details about how water coats surfaces, including its structure and properties.
A study found that oxygen therapy provides no additional benefit over regular air in relieving persistent breathlessness in patients with life-limiting illness. The researchers suggest less burdensome strategies should be considered for these patients.
A new University of Arizona study found that even complete strangers can infer a person's emotional state from just 30 seconds of conversation. Verbal snippets, such as tone and language use, provide significant insight into how people are coping with separation and divorce.
Moussa B.H. Youdim, a renowned neuroscientist, receives the 2010 ECNP Lifetime Achievement Award for his groundbreaking work on neuroprotective therapies for Parkinson's disease and Alzheimer's disease. His research focuses on the role of monoamine oxidase enzymes in neurotransmitter metabolism and brain iron metabolism.
A new study by Elizabeth Seng and Dr. Kenneth Holroyd found that psychological treatments significantly increase confidence in self-management abilities among severe migraine sufferers. Behavioral management programs alongside drug therapy led to increased confidence, especially among those with low control over their condition.
A University of Arizona-led consortium aims to create next-generation varities of rice that can withstand drought and poorer soils. The project will study the genes of wild rice species and identify those that could improve crop yields, providing a 'toolkit of genes' for enhanced food security.
A review suggests that many cases of treatment-resistant severe asthma in children are due to poor management, including adherence issues and environmental triggers. The authors recommend a multidisciplinary approach to confirm diagnosis, address comorbidities, and develop an individualized treatment plan.
EMBL scientists uncover counterpart of cerebral cortex in marine worm Platynereis dumerilii, a relative of the earthworm. The finding suggests that the pallium is much older than previously thought and likely evolved as an adaptation to early marine life.
NASA's Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission (TRMM) satellite observed heavy rainfall within Hurricane Earl, with rates exceeding 2 inches per hour. The Global Hawk unmanned aircraft is gathering information about the storm from 60,000 feet high, aiding scientists in understanding rapid intensification.
Tropical Depression Nine strengthened into Tropical Storm Gaston before weakening back into a depression due to dry and stable air. The storm's compact circulation showed high, cold thunderstorm cloud tops reaching -63 degrees Fahrenheit.
A survey of Connecticut primary care physicians found that only 2.1% diagnose and treat patients with chronic Lyme disease, contradicting claims by 'Lyme literate' groups. The study's findings suggest that chronic Lyme disease may not be as common as previously thought.
A chemical compound, NITD609, has shown promising results in clearing malaria parasites from mice after a single oral dose. The compound targets a parasite protein not attacked by existing malaria drugs and has desirable features for a new malaria therapy.
A study published in Science shows that neutrophils release enzymes that cause collateral damage to surrounding tissue, leading to chronic lung diseases. However, another enzyme LTA4H degrades a molecular fragment PGP, breaking the cycle and preventing damage.
A study found that kidney transplants showing fibrosis and inflammation after one year are at increased risk of long-term transplant failure. Routine biopsies can help identify these abnormal signs and predict potential targets for early preventative treatment.
Researchers have found evidence that ancient Nubians regularly consumed tetracycline, a powerful antibiotic, most likely through their beer. This discovery suggests that the art of making antibiotics was common practice nearly 2,000 years ago and challenges traditional views on the origins of modern medicine.
Researchers used imaging mass spectrometry to map signaling molecules between organisms, discovering metabolites involved in bacterial cannibalism. SDP and SKF were found to be essential for identifying and killing genetically identical cells.
Researchers investigated the effect of heat treatment on the superconducting properties of Ag-doped Sr0.6K0.4Fe2As2 compounds and found that increasing heat treatment temperature improves Jc, while Tc remains unaffected. The study demonstrated that Ag doping enhances Jc at higher sinter temperatures.
A recent study by IRCM researchers revealed the crucial role of the Vpr protein in blocking cell division and triggering immune cell death during HIV infection. The findings suggest that targeting this process could lead to new potential therapeutic targets, providing a better understanding of HIV infection and AIDS.
Researchers at the University of Alabama at Birmingham found that cigarette smoke inhibits the enzyme Leukotriene A4 Hydrolase (LTA4H), preventing it from shutting down proline-glycine-proline (PGP). This leads to chronic inflammation and a never-ending cycle of neutrophil recruitment. The study identifies PGP as a biomarker for lung d...
Scientists at the University of Trieste discovered a massive 280-million-year-old fossil supervolcano in northern Italy's Sesia Valley, exposing magmatic plumbing system to unprecedented depth. The discovery provides a model for understanding active calderas and may help predict future eruptions.
Astronomers discovered a cloud of hot water vapor around the old star IRC+10216 and suspected comets or dwarf planets were evaporating to produce it. However, Herschel's instruments revealed that ultraviolet light from surrounding stars is the actual source of the water, which forms closer to the star than comets can stably exist.
Researchers developed models to investigate non-healing bone fractures, suggesting cell transplantation as a potential treatment. The study used an animal model and mathematical modeling to demonstrate the effectiveness of this approach.
Rice University researchers are testing wireless communications technology that uses dormant broadcast television channels to deliver free, high-speed broadband Internet service. The new grant will allow the network to dynamically adapt its frequency usage and study how people interact with the new technology.
Researchers at UCLA found that female induced pluripotent stem cells (iPS) retain an inactive X chromosome, similar to most female human embryonic stem cells. This discovery has critical implications for studying X-linked diseases and could lead to a unique form of gene therapy.
Researchers at Northwestern University have discovered edible nanostructures that can be used for gas storage and food technologies. The compounds, made from natural ingredients like sugar and starch, offer a green approach to storing hydrogen and have potential applications in cleaner air and healthcare.
A research team at the University of Georgia has discovered a critical role for the cancer-causing gene Myc in stem cell biology, which could revolutionize medicine by enabling patient-specific stem cells. The study found that Myc sustains pluripotency by repressing a master regulator gene, and its absence triggers differentiation.
Researchers at Harvard University developed a millionth-scale automobile differential for minuscule aerial robots. The PARITy differential generates torques up to 10 million times smaller than in a car, allowing the robots to balance aerodynamic forces and navigate unpredictable environments.
Researchers at Scripps Research Institute have identified two proteins, Piezo1 and Piezo2, that play a crucial role in mechanotransduction - the conversion of mechanical force into chemical signals. This discovery could lead to new treatment approaches for pain, deafness, and cardiac function.
Scientists have devised a method to coax mouse embryonic stem cells into forming highly specific motor neuron subtypes. This achievement may prove useful for future therapies for motor neuron diseases. The study provides new insight into motor neuron differentiation and demonstrates the ability to generate defined motor neuron subtypes.
Researchers aim to understand how networks of creatives in WoW and Etsy can benefit scientists, corporations, and IT designers. By studying machinima videos and Etsy vendors' processes, they hope to develop software tools for supporting massive creative collaborations.
A Spanish research team has created a system that measures human physiological parameters and uses them to control virtual character behavior in real-time. The goal is to create a more immersive experience by tapping into the unconscious mind.
A pivotal study finds a strong association between post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and an increased risk of dementia in veterans. The research, published in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society, suggests that PTSD may be an early marker of dementia or contribute to cognitive impairment.
The collaboration aims to provide valuable information on subjects of mutual interest while assisting Ukrainians' research efforts. The team plans to publish their findings in scholarly journals, with papers scheduled for publication in the Health Physics Journal.
Biophysicists at Ruhr-University Bochum discovered a proton diode in proteins that allows protons to pass through cell membranes in one direction. Water molecules play a crucial role in this process, supporting the hypothesis that protein-bound water molecules are essential for protein function.
The European Menopause and Andropause Society (EMAS) has published four position statements on common management problems in the post-reproductive health of women. The statements cover the management of menopause in the context of obesity, epilepsy, endometriosis, and premature ovarian failure.
Researchers propose an image-based modeling method to reconstruct inhomogeneous single-scattering participating media with high-frequency details, reducing complexity compared to traditional methods. The approach uses volumetric data and optical properties to describe density distribution and preserves fine details.
Researchers at Iowa State University have developed a technology that can produce ethylene glycol and propylene glycol from biomass, two high-value chemicals with various industrial applications. The process uses supercritical fluids and does not require expensive reagents or harsh compounds, making it a more sustainable option.
A survey of 61 EMS agencies found wide variation in perceptions of workplace safety culture, with air-medical agencies tending to score higher across all domains. The study provides benchmarking data for EMS agencies and a reliable tool to evaluate safety within their agencies.
A group of French physicists have computed the trajectory of Roberto Carlos' famous 1997 free kick goal, revealing it was not an incredible fluke but a carefully calculated move. The 'spinning ball spiral' effect, as they call it, shows how the spin and velocity of the ball can create an unexpected trajectory.
A new study from Johns Hopkins Medicine found that uninsured minority pedestrians are at a significantly higher risk of death in car accidents compared to their insured white counterparts. The research also revealed that minority pedestrians are more likely to be struck by cars and experience increased mortality rates even after adjust...
Researchers at Ohio State University have developed a new mathematical model that can plan radiation doses and schedules for high-dose therapies more efficiently. The Generalized Linear-Quadratic Model covers all dose levels and schedules, enabling faster clinical trials and earlier availability of life-saving treatments.
Researchers at UC San Diego School of Medicine identified a molecular mechanism making omega-3 fatty acids effective against chronic inflammation and insulin resistance in diabetes. Omega-3 fatty acids activate GPR120 receptor on macrophages, resulting in anti-inflammatory effects and improved insulin sensitivity.
A commentary calls for a new funding model with strategic priorities to ensure America's position as a world leader in biomedical research. The current system has not evolved to keep pace with science, leading to stagnation in discoveries and innovation.
A new study by MIT researcher Damon Centola found that people are more likely to adopt new health practices in networks with dense clusters of connections, rather than those with long ties. In the study, individuals in clustered networks were four times more likely to register for a health forum and participate regularly.
The study proposes a novel dynamic memory mapping (DMM) model to improve the flexibility and extensibility of virtual machine monitors. The DMM model enables platform-independent and adjustable memory management, providing a uniform interface for integrating advanced memory management policies.
The Solar Probe Plus mission will measure energetic particles in the Sun's corona, providing critical data on acceleration mechanisms and space weather. SwRI-led instruments will help determine the structure and dynamics of the Sun's magnetic field and forecast hazardous space weather.
Research from the University of New Hampshire suggests that marijuana use may not lead to illicit drug abuse in young adulthood as previously thought. The study found that life factors such as employment status and stress play a stronger role in determining illicit drug use. In fact, the strongest predictor of illicit drug use is race/...
A review of published papers and professional guidelines highlights the challenges healthcare professionals face when caring for patients who use medicinal cannabis. The study suggests that nurses need ongoing support and guidance to provide the best care while respecting patients' rights.
Tropical Storm Fiona is expected to bring 1-3 inches of rainfall to Bermuda, with a tropical storm warning in effect. The GOES-13 satellite imagery shows Fiona as a smaller system compared to its brother, Hurricane Earl.
A previously fit man contracted Legionnaire's disease after cutting his finger on compost, highlighting the risk of infection through gardening activities. The UK Royal Horticultural Society has announced cautionary statements on potting compost bags to warn gardeners about this rare but serious risk.
A study from University of Michigan Medical School found that school children who eat vended snack foods are more likely to develop poor diet quality, being overweight or at risk for diabetes and coronary artery disease. The study recommends restricting unhealthy vended foods and promoting healthful options.
The biopharmaceutical industry is shifting towards more sustainable operations, with companies adopting environmentally friendly practices that also offer economic benefits. Key findings include the potential for waste reduction through process intensification and purification bottlenecks.
Researchers identified thousands of proteins involved in compacting DNA, a crucial process for cell division. This discovery could help explain why cell renewal can go wrong, leading to cancer or miscarriage.
The British Association for Psychopharmacology has released new guidelines to guide psychiatrists and physicians in treating sleep disorders. These guidelines recommend cognitive behavioral therapy as an effective treatment option for insomnia, which can be improved with specialist targeted therapy. The guidelines also address specific...
Researchers at The Hormel Institute have found a link between capsaicin, a common ingredient in chili peppers, and the formation of skin cancer. Topical application of capsaicin induced tumors in mice, with higher and larger tumors forming in those without TRPV1 receptors.
The study found that over 80% of new farmland created in the tropics between 1980 and 2000 came from felling forests, with significant implications for global warming. The research suggests that the rate of deforestation may be slowing, but the demand for agricultural production is expected to continue growing.
Researchers at NIST have developed a simple process for producing nanocrystals that enable studies of physical and chemical properties affecting nanoparticle interaction. The process allows precise control over size, shape and composition, creating perfect-edged nanocubes with uniform size.