A University of Nevada professor has conducted a six-year study revealing short-range over-connectivity in the outer layer of the brain's cortex in individuals with autism disorders. This finding supports early intervention behavioral therapies and may aid in sculpting out abnormal connections.
Researchers found that spouses tend to pick each other based on shared personality traits rather than growing alike over time. Aggression is an exception to this pattern, where spouses may become more aggressive together due to their interactions.
Researchers at Georgetown University and the National Aquarium successfully extracted DNA from dolphin blow, providing an alternative to biopsies. The new method involves collecting exhalations from blowholes, eliminating harm to young animals and requiring less skill than traditional dart biopsying.
A study reveals that mutant SOD1 interacts with VDAC1, disrupting its function and leading to mitochondrial damage and motor neuron degeneration. Reduced VDAC1 activity accelerates the onset of fatal paralysis in ALS mice.
Preliminary research published in Gut suggests that plantain and broccoli fibers may prevent the translocation of E. coli across M-cells, a key stage in Crohn's disease development. The study found that plantain and broccoli fibers reduced E. coli translocation by 45-82%, while leek and apple fibers had no effect.
The study identified mutations in the ataxin 2 gene as a genetic contributor to ALS, with expansions of glutamine in ataxin 2 linked to an increased risk for the disease. The findings may aid in the development of biomarkers and new therapies for ALS.
Professor John A. Burns received the W. T. and Idalia Reid Prize for his work in computational methods for control, design, and optimization of infinite dimensional dynamical systems. The prize is funded by an endowment from the late Mrs. Idalia Reid.
Research from the University of East Anglia has shown that commercial farming of porcupines is driving hunting and contributing to a devastating decline of wild populations. The study found that half of farmers interviewed were unregistered, with many using wild animals as founder stock or capturing them for sale.
Researchers at Medical College of Wisconsin and University of California, Riverside create synthetic chemical mimicking abscisic acid to improve crop resistance to drought. The discovery paves the way for developing new molecules that activate or turn on receptors.
Researchers from Ruhr-University Bochum discovered a new mechanism of how Antarctic fish blood prevents freezing at temperatures as low as -1.8°C. The antifreeze glycoproteins work by perturbing the aqueous solvent over long distances, rather than forming a single molecular binding.
Researchers found that vitamin D can reduce the production of a protein driving an allergic response in cystic fibrosis patients and increase production of proteins promoting tolerance. The findings support a potential clinical trial to prevent or treat Allergic Bronchopulmonary Aspergillosis (ABPA) in these patients.
A new study shows that sunlight drives asteroids to split in two and move far apart, forming binary and divorced binaries. The research suggests that many of these binaries likely originated from asteroid fission, with smaller asteroids separating at low velocities.
Researchers have developed a new diagnostic tool using Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy that can identify neurological diseases in patients without clear symptoms. The study shows promise for early diagnosis of degenerative brain disorders such as Huntington
A team of UC San Diego researchers has created a novel map of lipid locations in a single cell, providing insights into how lipids influence disease processes. The study identified over 220 individual molecular lipid species and found that numerous lipids change in abundance once a macrophage becomes active.
Researchers at Scripps Research Institute have uncovered a critical role for myosin II in long-term memory formation. Myosin II links together key processes, including signal transmission and synaptic plasticity, to solidify neuronal communication.
A new test allows for more accurate estimation of smokers' mouth-level exposure to cigarette smoke, which may aid in developing custom-tailored quitting strategies. The method uses a surrogate compound found in tobacco filters to gauge exposure to the thousands of chemicals present in cigarette smoke.
Researchers analyzed DNA sequences to understand how the Thaumoctopus mimicus evolved its ability to impersonate flatfish, displaying high-contrast color patterns. The study found that this trait is an extremely risky defense strategy, but one that allows the octopus to survive and reproduce more successfully in its habitat.
Two independent research groups demonstrate that induced pluripotent stem cells can be used to model diseases of the liver and generate functional hepatocytes with proliferative capabilities. These findings expand our understanding of iPS cell technology's potential for cell replacement therapy and modeling human disease.
Researchers at Penn State University have created the first image of a protein interacting with DNA packed tightly into space-saving bundles. The discovery is expected to aid future investigations into diseases such as cancer and provide new insights into how cells regulate gene expression.
A new hyperspectral imaging technique allows for rapid detection of Campylobacter in food samples, reducing the time needed for isolation and identification from days to just 24 hours.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine found that mosquitoes and other insects use taste receptors to detect DEET and smell citronellal, leading to aversion responses. The study identified three essential taste receptors for DEET detection and two distinct types of cell surface channels required for avoiding citronellal vapor.
The NSF has awarded $20 million to 17 institutions across the US to improve inter- and intra-campus cyber connectivity, with a focus on broadening participation in STEM research and education. The awards will support the development of high-speed networks, enhance collaboration among researchers, and foster economic development in states.
Pathogens such as Neisseria gonorrhoeae use a delayed entry strategy to survive in the human body, strengthening cellular skeletons and anchoring to cell surfaces. This new understanding may have exciting implications for preventing infection with various bacterial agents.
Researchers at Harvard University found that humans use the same brain circuits for complex moral decisions as those used in mundane choices. The ventromedial prefrontal cortex tracks expected moral value, integrating information on number of lives saved and probability of success. This discovery advances our understanding of how peopl...
Researchers at Purdue University and the University of South Carolina have discovered a unique adhesive material in oysters that differs from other marine organisms. The cement, composed largely of chalky calcium carbonate, plays a crucial role in forming massive reef complexes.
Researchers at EMBL identified specific type of neurons involved in mouse fear response, revealing complex brain circuitry. They used fMRI and genetic approaches to control neurons' activity, showing that fear can trigger active coping strategies instead of freezing.
Scientists have developed a new class of biofuel cells that can produce electricity using sugar or cooking oil, opening possibilities for recharging portable electronics. The first mitochondria fuel cell successfully produces electricity in lab tests.
A University of Waterloo study found that students are overly optimistic about their ability to achieve savings goals, leading them to undervalue opportunities for help. The study suggests that this optimism can be costly, causing individuals to overlook ways to make achieving their goals easier.
Researchers develop new theory explaining the evolution of eusocial behavior, finding that standard natural selection is sufficient to account for cooperation in species like ants and bees. The study suggests that eusociality arises independently multiple times due to the stability of colonies once established.
SOFIA's infrared telescope will study the Milky Way's galactic center, detecting heat radiation not visible to human eyes. The mission aims to understand star formation in the presence of a supermassive black hole.
Research found that people with insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes are at increased risk of developing brain plaques associated with Alzheimer's disease. The study also discovered a link between abnormal blood sugar control tests and the presence of these plaques.
A study found that fuel treatments can reduce fire severity and protect older trees desirable for their timber, wildlife, and carbon-storage value. The results showed nearly 60% of trees survived in stands with thinning plus fuel treatment, and three-quarters of larger trees survived.
A study in rural Bangladesh found that women with depression and anxiety during pregnancy gave birth to smaller babies, which are more likely to die in infancy. The research highlights the importance of mental health support services to reduce child mortality in developing countries.
The Mayo Clinic team created four new ATC cell lines with distinct molecular mutations, which will aid in testing new treatments and potentially lead to improved survival rates. The researchers also found that these cell lines reactivate a tumor suppressor gene called RhoB, leading to growth suppression.
Researchers at North Carolina State University developed tiny microneedles that can deliver quantum dots, nanoscale crystals, into the skin for diagnosing and treating various medical conditions. The technology uses multiphoton microscopy to visualize quantum dot delivery, paving the way for more rapid cancer diagnosis and treatment.
A large population study found a statistically significant association between BPA exposure and increased testosterone levels in men. The study, which analyzed data from over 700 adults aged 20-74 years, suggests that even low-level exposure to BPA may have endocrine-disrupting effects on human health.
Researchers found that solar flares can affect the decay rate of certain radioactive elements on Earth. This effect is likely caused by solar neutrinos emitted by the sun. The study's findings could lead to a new method for predicting solar flares and protecting satellites from damage.
Scientists have discovered that giant nanoparticles are sticking together in a vacuum chamber, causing stress and roughness in thin films. This finding has large implications for industries such as optics and materials science.
A phase 1 clinical trial showed that PLX4032 significantly shrinks tumors in over 80% of patients with metastatic melanoma and the mutated BRAF gene. The drug has also improved quality of life by reducing symptoms such as pain and fatigue within a week.
Scientists have developed a new, eco-friendly adhesive made from soy flour and water-resistant additive that performs as well as traditional petroleum-based adhesives without releasing harmful formaldehyde vapors. The sustainable glue could lead to a resurgence of protein-based adhesives in the wood industry.
Researchers have identified a gene likely responsible for Fuchs corneal dystrophy, an inheritable genetic disorder causing corneal transplant operations. The TCF4 gene variation significantly increases the risk of developing the disease.
Researchers analyzed 163 YouTube videos featuring top tobacco brands and found that nearly three-quarters of the content was pro-tobacco. The most popular brand, Marlboro, had over 104,000 views on its most viewed video.
Researchers create 'soyscreen' oil to protect fungal spores from sunlight, expanding use of fungus as insecticide alternative. The substance successfully protects spores for 28 weeks without harming them.
Plant scientists have made a significant advance in developing drought-resistant crops by understanding how the synthetic chemical pyrabactin works. By identifying subtle differences between receptors in their binding pockets, researchers can now develop more effective chemicals for bringing drought-resistance to plants.
Scientists have discovered a substance called 'dry water' that can absorb and store carbon dioxide, methane, and other gases. This powder has the potential to reduce global warming by providing an alternative storage material for these gases.
A study of over 400 patients found that 53% reported improved pain levels, but 17% experienced increased pain. The research also showed that 39% of patients experienced increased vitality, while 24% saw a decline. Poor recovery was relatively frequent six and 12 months after surgery.
Researchers studying coral in Puerto Rico's Vega Baja area are using the site to assess potential damage from the Gulf oil spill. The team is analyzing enzyme presence, contaminant chemical signatures, and sediment samples to determine stressors and sources of harm.
Researchers identify a genetic mutation in the immune system causing chronic kidney disease in Cypriot families, with symptoms including blood in the urine and progressive kidney malfunction. The mutation dates back to a single common ancestor over 16 generations ago.
Researchers create new nano-material using biomaterial involved in Alzheimer's disease research, resulting in environmentally friendly LED lights. The technology also enables medical equipment to be more sensitive and generates strong signals for other applications.
The University of Minnesota's Institute for Mathematics and its Applications has received a $20.5 million NSF grant to continue its tradition as one of the nation's top math institutes. The IMA brings together world-class mathematicians with experts from other scientific disciplines to tackle real-world problems.
Scientists have created diseased liver cells from human skin samples to model a range of inherited disorders. The breakthrough could lead to personalized treatments and cell-based therapy for those suffering from liver diseases.
The study, led by D. Michael Lindsay, categorizes evangelical leaders into pragmatic, heroic, circumspect, and brazen types based on their personal faith engagement in workplace decision-making. The research highlights the diversity of evangelicals' approaches to business leadership and their motivations.
Researchers use seismic technique to detect boundary between old and new lithosphere beneath the North American continent. The study reveals a layer cake of ancient rock on top of newer material, challenging traditional theories on continental formation.
Astronomers discovered that the first super-massive black holes formed when galaxies collided and merged together, contrary to hierarchical structure formation. These simulations reveal details of the merged galaxies on a scale of less than a light year.
A new targeted therapy called PLX4032 has been linked to an 80% response rate in treating advanced melanoma. The treatment, which targets the BRAF protein, has shown significant tumor shrinkage and improved quality of life for some patients.
Researchers found that naringenin activates nuclear receptors, increasing fatty acid oxidation and inhibiting 'bad cholesterol' production. This compound mimics actions of existing drugs, offering a potential treatment for hyperlipidemia, type-2 diabetes, and metabolic syndrome.
Researchers at Salk Institute discover a novel mechanism by which adenovirus disables p53 in infected cells, paving the way for targeted cancer therapies. The study reveals two key proteins, E1B-55K and E4-ORF3, that work together to neutralize p53's tumor suppressor function.
Researchers have found that walking uphill and using obstacles can improve flexibility in arthritic dogs' joints, while walking downhill offers little therapeutic benefit.
A 2-year clinical study demonstrated that biosynthetic corneas formulated with recombinant human type III collagen restored vision and promoted nerve regeneration in patients with corneal damage. The results provide proof-of-concept for a viable replacement for human donor tissue or animal-sourced collagens.
Researchers at the University of Arizona have developed a battery of computer-based tests that can quickly assess cognitive abilities in individuals with Down syndrome. The tests, which take about two hours to administer, offer a new tool for clinicians and researchers to determine developmental trajectory and devise drug and behaviora...
Researchers at the University of Illinois found that feeding co-products and cornstalk residue in winter can reduce cow feed costs by up to $1 per day. The study compared various feeding methods and delivery systems, finding that smaller herds can save money by feeding free-choice cornstalk residue and handfeeding DDGS.
Researchers have developed biosynthetic corneas that can regenerate and repair damaged eye tissue, improving vision in humans. The results of an early-phase clinical trial show promising outcomes, including improved vision and reduced rejection reactions.
Researchers from UCI and Scripps discovered that myosin II proteins play a critical role in synaptic plasticity and learning, suggesting new therapeutic targets for memory-related disorders. This finding adds an unexpected dimension to the story of how memories are encoded.
Exposure to low doses of BPA affects the earliest stages of egg production in the ovaries of developing mouse fetuses. The study reveals a striking down-regulation of mitotic/cell cycle genes, raising concerns about the reproductive lifespan of female mice.
Researchers have discovered that plantain soluble fibres can prevent the uptake and transport of E. coli across M-cells in the gut, reducing chronic inflammation in patients with Crohn's disease. Clinical trials are underway to test whether a medical food containing plantain fibres can keep patients in remission.
Researchers have discovered a new method to harness electricity from the air, using a process called hygroelectricity. This technology could provide an alternative energy source for homes and businesses, similar to solar cells, and prevent lightning strikes by draining electricity out of the air.
A recent scientific study found that men and women exhibit different responses to liquid calories, with women showing a trend towards greater energy intake after consuming caloric drinks. The research suggests that the body compensates for short-term energy intake, but women may be more susceptible to energy compensation dysregulation.
Researchers at Rice University studied bacteria in a competition for evolutionary dominance, finding specific genetic mutations that imparted physical advantages. These mutations were linked to increased resistance to temperature changes and protein misfolding, which may be related to human diseases like Alzheimer's.
Rutgers marine scientist Elisabeth Sikes and her colleagues discovered a regional 'de-gassing' of carbon dioxide in the South Pacific and Southern Ocean after the last ice age, challenging global assumptions. This finding has significant implications for understanding ocean CO2 dynamics and geo-engineering.
A study of over 8500 UK doctors found that those with strong faith are less likely to discuss end-of-life care decisions with patients. Non-religious doctors, on the other hand, are almost twice as willing to take actions expected to shorten a patient's life.
Researchers discovered that many binary asteroid pairs do not remain bound to each other but escape, forming two separate asteroids in orbit around the sun. The study showed a specific relationship between the larger and smaller members of the pair, with the smallest one always less than 60% of the size of its companion.
The University of Tennessee-managed NICS will add 300 teraflops and 200 million service units to the TeraGrid, increasing total available resources to over 800 million. Researchers can now access more resources, including the 166-teraflop Cray XT4 Athena, with improved availability for smaller jobs.
Researchers have identified a rare form of kidney disease linked to a genetic mutation in the innate immune system, causing progressive kidney malfunction and blood in urine. The condition, named CFHR5 nephropathy, has been found in over 100 people of Cypriot descent and is potentially serious but can be detected through DNA testing.
Researchers have successfully generated iPS cell-derived hepatocytes, which can recapitulate key features of inherited liver diseases and regenerate in mice. This breakthrough could lead to new treatments for liver disorders.