Scientists are studying the effects of the Gulf oil spill on the Florida Everglades ecosystem, measuring hydrocarbon concentrations and food web structure at impacted sites. Research will help design future oil spill clean-up efforts and assess the impact on marine animal and plant distributions.
Neurobiologists funded by the Office of Naval Research have discovered a potential cure for degenerative vision diseases, restoring vision in mice with congenital macular degeneration. The research has significant future implications for treating eye diseases such as retinitis pigmentosa, which affects over 2 million worldwide cases.
A large population-based study found that excess maternal weight gain is a strong predictor of high birth weight, regardless of genetic factors. The study highlights the importance of weight management efforts before birth to reduce the risk of obesity and related diseases.
A new survey of Antarctic krill reveals high biomass densities and stable populations in shallow waters, challenging traditional offshore survey methods. The study's findings have significant implications for krill fishery management.
A new experimental antibiotic has been shown to be effective against bacteria that are resistant to existing treatments. The compound works by targeting a specific enzyme in the bacteria's internal machinery, preventing it from reproducing.
A new study finds that traveling by car increases global temperatures more significantly than flying over the long term due to higher carbon dioxide emissions. In contrast, air travel has a greater adverse climate impact in the short run due to its effects on high-altitude ozone and clouds.
A global team of researchers identified 95 genetic loci associated with blood lipid levels, including a non-coding gene variant that contributes to lower 'bad' cholesterol and reduced risk of heart attack. The study provides insights into the biological connections between lipid metabolism and coronary heart disease.
Icatibant blocks bradykinin, a protein that dilates blood vessels and produces HAE symptoms. The drug produced faster symptom relief than the comparison drug in two phase 3 trials.
A $2.4 million NSF grant will enable NJIT physicist Philip R. Goode to develop a new adaptive optics system, allowing for better study of sunspots and space weather. The improved optics will increase the distortion-free field of view, enabling researchers to study larger areas of the sun.
Scientists have discovered a unique blob-like creature called Drakozoon, which lived in the ocean approximately 425 million years ago. The creature's 3D model reveals it had eight deep ridges on its body, supporting the theory that early creatures were made of repeated units.
Researchers have identified a unique metabolic pathway in Plasmodium falciparum, the deadliest malaria parasite, which could be targeted with anti-malarial drugs. The discovery, published in Nature, reveals that the parasite uses a double-branched pathway to generate acetyl-CoA, a crucial molecule for its survival.
A new study reveals that Foldit players have successfully solved protein-folding problems that are too difficult for supercomputers, using intuitive leaps and strategic thinking. The game has shown promise in tackling medical challenges, such as designing proteins to combat diseases like the flu and HIV.
A recent brain study found that thinking about God decreases distress and anxiety in people who believe, but has the opposite effect on those who don't. For believers, this mental preparation may help them cope with mistakes and setbacks more effectively.
Dr. Andres M. Lozano's phase one trial shows DBS is safe for early-stage Alzheimer's patients, with half showing improved memory capacity. The study suggests a potential treatment approach to extend quality of life for those with the disease.
A team of researchers has discovered that Saturn's aurora pulses in tandem with its radio emissions, providing a long-suspected link between the two phenomena. The discovery offers new insights into Saturn's irregular heartbeat and has significant implications for understanding the planet's rotation period.
A new study found geochemical clues near Mauna Kea's summit that tell a story of ancient glacier formation, frequent storms in Hawaii, and the impact of distant climatic events. The research suggests that the growth of the Mauna Kea glacier was caused by both colder conditions and increased precipitation.
The Foldit game harnesses distributed thinking to predict protein structures, outperforming computers in some cases. Non-scientists excel at the game due to its reliance on visualization skills, and humans have proven better than computers in certain tasks.
Rice University's compact fluorescence microscope, developed by Andrew Miller, has been shown to accurately diagnose tuberculosis in a trial with 98.4% accuracy. The portable device, costing $240, is comparable to expensive lab equipment and has the potential to improve early detection and treatment of TB in developing countries.
Researchers sequenced the sponge genome to connect the dots between Amphimedon and other animals, revealing a striking conservation of gene structure and genome organization. The study aims to understand how patterns that have been around for a billion years have evolved or persisted.
Researchers achieved quantum entanglement between photons and solid-state materials, enabling communication over long distances. This breakthrough is crucial for developing quantum networks for secure communication and distributed computing.
A new study has revealed that both low-income and affluent communities in California have high levels of endocrine disruptors in their homes, with indoor air pollution posing a significant health risk. The study, which analyzed indoor and outdoor air samples from 40 low-income and 10 affluent homes, found that levels of these substance...
A team of researchers has sequenced the genome of an ancient sponge, revealing insights into the evolution of the first animals and cancer. The study found that sponges share many genes with humans, but also have significant differences, including missing components involved in cell division and development.
The University of California, Riverside has received six grants from the UC Tobacco-Related Disease Research Program to fund research on thirdhand smoke and cigarette smoke's effects on reproduction. The grants total over $850,000 and will support multiple labs working on tobacco-related research at UCR.
A study found that valproate reduces collagen production by almost 60% and osteonectin levels by 28% in SMA cells, contributing to bone loss in these patients.
Dr. Yücel's discovery dispels the longstanding assumption that the eye has no lymphatics, leading to new treatments for glaucoma and eye tumours. The find also refutes the idea that the eye is not connected to the body's immune system.
Researchers have developed a small robot named ROCR that can climb walls efficiently, achieving 20% efficiency in climbing tests. The robot uses a swinging motion inspired by human climbers and animals to minimize energy consumption.
A genome scan has identified a gene, Sort1, that regulates LDL-C levels and is associated with heart disease. The study found that increasing liver sortilin protein reduced plasma cholesterol and may provide a new target for treating cardiovascular disease.
Researchers have identified a gene, CACGN2, associated with chronic pain susceptibility in humans. The study suggests that genetic variants in this gene may contribute to individual differences in chronic pain experience.
The Positive Psychology Center at the University of Pennsylvania has awarded $2.9 million to 15 researchers exploring the intersection of neuroscience and positive psychology. The grants focus on topics such as neural mechanisms of human flourishing, altruism, and the effects of positive interventions on the brain.
A team of scientists from 14 countries has successfully drilled through a mile and half of the Greenland ice sheet in search of climate change insights. The ice core samples may offer valuable information about how the world can change during periods of abrupt warming.
Researchers from Massachusetts General Hospital identified a microRNA molecule that increases the number of hematopoietic stem cells, which can give rise to all blood and immune system cells. This discovery may lead to improved cancer treatment by expanding stem cell populations.
A global team of researchers has identified 95 regions of the human genome where genetic variants are associated with blood cholesterol and triglyceride levels, a major indicator of heart disease risk. The study found that many common variants discovered by the team also influence lipid traits across different racial and ethnic groups.
Scientists used a unique frequency comb system to detect minute traces of contaminant molecules in arsine gas, which can cause semiconductor defects. The technique offers a combination of speed, sensitivity, specificity, and broad frequency coverage.
A study published in Clinical Neurophysiology found that an electroencephalography (EEG) test can predict how patients with schizophrenia will respond to clozapine therapy. The test achieved an accuracy of 89%, showing promise for improving treatment outcomes and reducing the risk of serious side effects.
A newly developed DNA test can quickly analyze crime scene DNA and compare it to suspects' DNA, potentially keeping high-risk individuals incarcerated longer. The test, which takes four hours to produce results, is an improvement over current methods that take 24-72 hours.
A University of Rochester scientist has discovered a new approach to boosting the body's response to vaccinations using insulin-sensitizing drugs. This breakthrough could lead to improved vaccine efficacy for individuals with weakened immune systems, such as infants and elderly people.
Researchers discovered 95 gene loci associated with lipid metabolism, including factors like cholesterol and triglycerides. The findings may lead to new treatments for coronary artery disease, as genetic variants offer molecular targets for cholesterol-lowering drugs.
Researchers have made significant progress in plasmonics, a field that overcomes diffraction limitations to fabricate nano-scale optical components. These advancements enable the development of integrated nanophotonic circuits with substantial improvements in bandwidth and speed for next-generation information technologies.
Research by University of Illinois sports economist Scott Tainsky reveals that winning teams, long-standing market presence, and prime-time games positively impact NFL TV ratings. TV ratings serve as a proxy for consumer demand in both home and road markets.
Scientists report the discovery of a unique Cretaceous creature with mammal-like teeth, challenging traditional views of ancient animal life. The new species, Pakasuchus, was found in Tanzania and is believed to have been a land-dwelling, insect-eating creature that thrived during the middle Cretaceous period.
Researchers at Stevens Institute of Technology have developed a novel biomimetic approach using nanofibers to reconstruct intricate bone tissue, focusing on engineering cortical bone. The team aims to create robust platforms for complex tissue structures, with potential applications in reconstructive and transplant surgery.
The new book 'Urban Ecosystem Ecology' aims to understand the complexities of urban ecosystems and provide solutions for managing their environmental impacts. The book covers topics such as wildlife, water quality, air quality, and climate change, and offers practical guidance on green infrastructure planning and urban forestry.
A Harvard University study found that foreclosure reduces the sale price of a home by an average of 27%, while nearby homes within 250 feet see a 1% decrease in value. Other types of forced sales, such as death-related or bankruptcy-related discounts, result in smaller price drops.
A study from the University of Minnesota's Carlson School of Management found that ovulating women prefer sexier fashion products when thinking about local, attractive women, to entice a desirable mate. This behavior is not conscious and applies only during the ovulation phase, with no effect on non-ovulating women.
The USDA research found that bee pastures can support the growth of healthy young bees by up to fivefold a year. The pastures feature native California plants such as Chinese houses and lacy phacelia, providing a practical and environmentally friendly way to promote pollinator populations.
Researchers at Caltech have identified a novel group of microRNAs that regulate the production of hematopoietic stem cells, which produce blood cells. The study found that one particular miRNA enhances the production of mature blood cells but can also induce aggressive leukemia when overexpressed.
The Harold C. Simmons Comprehensive Cancer Center at UT Southwestern Medical Center has attained NCI designation, recognizing its innovative research and excellent patient care. The center will receive a $7.5 million support grant over five years to advance cancer research and provide patients access to promising new treatments.
Researchers observe valence electrons' motion for the first time, revealing coherent superposition that controls properties. The discovery uses attosecond absorption spectroscopy to explore electron dynamics in atoms and molecules.
The American Political Science Association (APSA) recognizes outstanding scholars with various awards for their research, teaching, and contributions to the field of politics. This year's award recipients include notable figures such as General David Petraeus and Kristen Renwick Monroe.
Research by University of Guelph professor Rob McLaughlin reveals a correlation between brain structure and foraging behavior in brook trout. Larger telencephalon region found in fish that hunt actively, suggesting a link between brain morphology and behavioral traits.
Researchers at Wake Forest University Baptist Medical Center found that low ferroportin levels are associated with aggressive and recurring breast cancers. Testing ferroportin levels may help predict cancer return and guide therapy for patients.
A new brain-imaging study by Caltech researchers found that the posterior parietal cortex (PPC) is linked to how well subjects believe they performed on tasks, regardless of actual performance. This suggests that optimistic and pessimistic brains show different patterns of neural activity when planning movements.
A team of astronomers from the University of Arizona developed a technique called laser adaptive optics, allowing for sharper images and faster data collection. This technology will enable scientists to study ancient galaxies and star clusters more efficiently.
A recent study found that long-term dietary consumption of capsaicin in chili peppers can reduce blood pressure in genetically hypertensive rats by activating the TRPV1 channel and increasing nitric oxide production. This could lead to potential benefits for humans with high blood pressure.
The Association of Specialty Professors has announced the ninth class of T. Franklin Williams Scholars, supporting research on pulmonary fibrosis, chronic kidney disease, and palliative care for older adults. Seven new investigators will join 75 previous scholars in advancing knowledge on these topics.
A team of Syracuse University physicists developed a theoretical model that explains how the Pauli exclusion principle can be violated, allowing for multiple electrons to occupy the same quantum state. The model may help explain matter behavior at black hole edges and contribute to a unified theory of quantum gravity.
A University of Louisville Public Health doctoral student is developing a model to simulate the travel of mercury from an emission source to humans, aiming to inform environmental policy decisions. The research will focus on Kentucky waterways, with the goal of reducing risk to subsistence fishers, anglers, and women of child-bearing age.
Researchers found that brief interventions delivered by therapists or computers in emergency departments can lead to significant reductions in peer violence and alcohol misuse among adolescents. The studies show that these interventions are clinically meaningful and could be translated into routine clinical practice.
A study in mice with disrupted circadian rhythms found that triglyceride levels remain high throughout the day, unlike normal mice whose levels peak at night. The researchers suggest that activities disrupting the circadian rhythm may have real consequences for lipid metabolism.
Researchers found mortality rates 3-5 times higher than sub-Saharan Africa average, with 81% forced to flee homes since 2002. High percentages reported traumatic events and symptoms consistent with depression and anxiety. The study informs aid programs, security sector reforms and accountability processes.