Scientists observed male topi antelopes in southwest Kenya faking alarm snorts to deceive females in heat, allowing for additional mating opportunities. The males' false alarms only occurred when females were in estrus, and the researchers found that these deceptions increased the males' chances of mating by nearly three times.
Researchers at Medical College of Georgia have identified a rare hybrid cell that can switch the immune system on or off, expressing indoleamine 2,3 dioxygenase to turn off T cells. This unique cell has properties of both dendritic and B cells, with potential implications for cancer and rheumatoid arthritis therapies.
A well-preserved village in China's Sanyangzhuang offers a unique glimpse into daily life in Western China during the Han Dynasty. The site features remarkable finds such as tiled roofs, brick foundations and metal tools, suggesting a relatively affluent community despite its remote location.
A new £800,000 research programme aims to unlock the secrets of motor neuron disease by studying human motor neurons and support cells from donors. The programme will investigate whether support cells are injurious or protective to motor neurons, and may lead to promising new treatment strategies.
Researchers found that global warming led to a 30% decline in biodiversity among small mammals, with populations experiencing significant losses while the deer mouse thrived due to its adaptability. This change had ripple effects on ecosystems, affecting soil aeration, seed dispersal, and predator-prey relationships.
Scientists found that M. tuberculosis antigens remain unchanged and homogenous, unlike many viruses and parasites, allowing the bacteria to be transmitted from person to person.
A new study has found that pregnancy doubles the risk of HIV transmission to men, with their risk increasing by double if their partner is both HIV-infected and pregnant. Researchers have also tested a vaginal microbicide in pregnant women, finding that it shows promise for preventing HIV transmission.
Scientists have developed a new method for synthesizing complex carbohydrates, enabling researchers to study their function in cellular processes and diseases. The method, reported in Nature Chemistry, allows for rapid and controlled synthesis of oligosaccharides, paving the way for the creation of libraries of carbohydrate molecules.
Researchers tested a vaginal microbicide gel containing an integrase inhibitor and found it provided significant protection against infection with a virus similar to HIV. The study showed promise for further evaluation of integrase inhibitors as a potential method for preventing HIV transmission in uninfected individuals.
The study reveals that global child under-5 deaths have declined by 60% since 1970, with neonatal mortality dropping by 57%. Many poorer countries are making accelerated progress, while high-income countries like the UK and US are lagging behind. Only 31 developing countries are on track to meet MDG4.
Researchers have identified intrinsic properties of DNA that influence mutation rate, including the impact of CpG content. The study suggests that the co-variation of CpG content and non-CpG mutation rate is a property of the DNA sequence itself.
Researchers found that bacteria in oxygen-free environments can use insoluble organic compounds to accelerate mineral respiration, a new pathway for electrical charges to move around in the environment. This discovery has implications for understanding soil chemistry and environmental contamination.
Nine new species of handfish have been described by CSIRO, bringing the total to 14 known species. The discovery deepens concerns about declining populations and environmental vulnerability.
A study of 1,800 heart attack patients found that nearly half received instructions on resuming sex, but fewer discussed it with their doctors. Men were more likely to report a loss of sexual activity if they didn't receive information on when to resume.
A team of ARS scientists used remote sensing tools to identify invasive Ashe juniper shrubs and trees in central Texas. The study found that the first 10 bands from a MNF transformation were the best for distinguishing Ashe juniper from other mixed woody species.
The University of Pittsburgh has received a total of $2 million in grants from the Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI) to support its precollege and undergraduate science education initiatives. The four-year grants will fund academic programs that encourage high school and undergraduate students to engage in active research, fosteri...
Researchers at Michigan State University are testing a new NicVAX vaccine to help people quit smoking and avoid relapses. The vaccine works by preventing nicotine from crossing the blood-brain barrier, blocking the addictive pleasure sensation experienced by smokers.
A study published in PLoS One investigates the reliability of peer review and its influence on journal editors' decisions to publish or reject research. The results suggest that reviewers agree on manuscript disposition rates barely exceeding chance, while editor decisions are significantly influenced by reviewer recommendations.
Researchers from the NYU Cancer Institute will present studies on improved ways to diagnose melanoma in lymphatic vessels and investigate genetic differences between melanoma subtypes. Laura Hogan, a pediatric hematology and oncology fellow, is also honored for her outstanding work in pediatric oncology research.
New definitions of malnutrition published, identifying starvation-related and disease-related malnutrition as independent risk factors for hospital mortality. The study highlights the importance of nutrition assessment in clinical practice.
A study of 125,126 Swedish citizens with type 2 diabetes found an increased risk of 24 types of cancer, with the highest rates for pancreatic and liver cell cancers. The researchers also discovered a lower risk of prostate cancer among diabetics with a family history of the disease.
A comprehensive health promotion program developed by CSX Transportation reduced cardiovascular disease-related medical claims from 56.6% to 48.3% and hospital claims from 6% to 4.3%. The program, launched in 2004, included interventions such as biometric screenings, nutrition and exercise coaching, and on-site fitness centers.
A recent study by the University of Illinois found that food insecurity is associated with a higher body mass index, greater weight gain during pregnancy, and a higher risk for gestational diabetes. Pregnant women who experienced food insecurity were more likely to develop health complications.
Scientists need to be more proactive and effective in communicating their research findings to various audiences, including resource users, communities, and the general public. A comprehensive approach to communication used in the establishment of marine reserves can be applied to other areas of science and natural resource management.
A new technology developed by MIT chemical engineer Christopher Love can analyze individual immune cells taken from patients, allowing for precise measurement of the cells' response to allergens. This approach enables faster and more reliable food allergy diagnoses than current tests.
Researchers have developed silica cages that can package anti-cancer antibodies, which significantly slow the growth of tumors and prolong the lives of mice. The treatment also reduces side effects compared to traditional intravenous drips.
A pharmacist-led home blood pressure monitoring program supported by the American Heart Association's Heart 360 website improved blood pressure control for patients with uncontrolled hypertension. The program, which used online tools and clinical pharmacy specialists to adjust medications based on proven protocols, resulted in a signif...
The University of Miami will receive a $1.4 million grant from the Howard Hughes Medical Institute to strengthen its undergraduate science education program. The program aims to attract first-generation college students and those from underrepresented groups to pursue careers in science.
The World Health Assembly approved a resolution focused on preventing and treating pneumonia, the world's leading killer of children. The resolution aims to save millions of young lives by accelerating access and delivery of proven interventions, including vaccination and antibiotics.
University of Calgary researchers warn of a new computer security threat called Typhoid adware, which can infect laptops in public places like internet cafes. The adware displays advertisements on infected computers without the user's knowledge.
Researchers have found that lithium reduces brain inflammation by increasing levels of anti-inflammatory DHA and decreasing pro-inflammatory arachidonic acid. This dual mechanism may explain why lithium is effective in treating bipolar disorder, and could lead to additional therapeutic uses.
A new study by Brigham Young University found that reality TV shows exhibit more aggression than dramas, comedies, and soap operas. The researchers analyzed 120 hours of programming and identified 52 acts of aggression per hour on reality TV, with 'The Apprentice' topping the list.
The OU-PRIME research weather radar captured fine details of the storms never seen before with any radar. Researchers believe this unique data set will reveal new discoveries about tornado genesis and severe storms for years to come.
A study in mice suggests that prenatal exposure to BPA or DES may program a fetus for life, increasing the risk of breast cancer in adulthood. Higher EZH2 levels are associated with an increased risk of breast cancer in humans, highlighting the potential need for monitoring women exposed to these chemicals.
A new blood test can predict whether newborn babies are at high risk of developing allergies as they grow older, thanks to research involving the University of Adelaide.
Researchers used systems biology approaches to study how hematopoietic cells react to high levels of erythropoietin. They found that the cells rapidly take up and break down the hormone, replenishing their receptors in a continuous process. This understanding may lead to developing more effective anemia treatments.
The Economics of Ecosystems and Biodiversity (TEEB) study estimates annual Natural Capital loss to be between EUR 1.35 trillion - EUR 3.1 trillion, with coral reefs valued at US$ 172 billion annually. TEEB leader Pavan Sukhdev calls for decisive action to prevent biodiversity loss.
Consuelo De Moraes at Penn State has received a $100,000 grant to investigate the link between malaria infection and odor cues that attract mosquitoes. Her research aims to identify a chemical signature of malaria infection, potentially leading to new diagnostic tools.
A multicenter team of researchers, including scientists at Albert Einstein College of Medicine, has received a NIH 'Glue Grant' to develop a strategy for discovering the structure and function of unknown enzymes. The research may result in new drug targets and lead to new enzymes for industrial reactions.
A NASA 3D image reveals a thunderstorm in Cyclone Laila that reached almost 11 miles high. The Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission satellite provided data to forecasters, helping them predict rainfall and storm behavior.
Researchers discovered a small group of genes in fruit flies that likely play important roles in regulating the formation of plaque-like protein aggregates within cells. The identified genes have human counterparts and may be manipulated to stop or slow the formation of these aggregates, which are a hallmark of Huntington's disease.
Researchers at TUM and LMU investigate kinesin-2, a fast motor protein that transports cellular cargoes along microtubules. They find that KLP11 has an autoinhibition mechanism that allows it to control its speed and function in the cell.
A study found that three commonly used symptom-reflux association analysis (SAA) parameters often disagree on diagnosing gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) in infants. The results show a significant discrepancy between the parameters, highlighting the need for a combination of diagnostic methods to accurately diagnose GERD in infants.
The university aims to bring students into labs earlier, with a focus on real research problems and hands-on experiences, to enhance their career paths. The new program will culminate in a senior thesis for publication, aiming to increase the percentage of students completing original research.
The Air Force Suicide Prevention Program has reduced suicide rates significantly since its launch in 1996. The program's success is attributed to consistently supported interventions that promote coping skills and reduce stigma associated with mental health care.
Scientists at Oak Ridge National Laboratory have identified a key gene for improving the conversion process of cellulosic biomass into ethanol. The modified microorganism shows enhanced efficiency and potential use for more cost-effective biofuel production, overcoming current pretreatment challenges.
New scientific advances offer significant promise for reducing the spread of HIV/AIDS and tuberculosis, including novel TB drugs, rapid diagnostic tests and bold prevention approaches like PrEP. Experts call for policymakers to capitalize on these advances to save millions of lives from these deadly epidemics.
Researchers identified two genes, leucokinin neuropeptide and receptor, that regulate meal sizes and frequency in fruit flies. In normal flies, the stretch receptors signal to the brain when the gut is full, but in mutants or brain center destruction, this signal is not relayed, leading to excessive eating.
The US Army has deployed Hellfire II missiles equipped with a health-monitoring device to Iraq and Afghanistan, providing troops with an added measure of assurance that the missiles will perform without failure. The Captive Carry Health Monitoring system automatically monitors environmental conditions that can affect missile reliability.
A new autism intervention for preschool children showed improvements in parent-child interaction, but failed to deliver a clinically significant reduction in autism symptoms. The study assessed 152 children aged 2-4 years and found that the PACT intervention led to enhanced communicative and social development.
Researchers explore cosmic microwave radiation as favored method to detect primordial gravitational waves, offering a potentially new probe of early universe cosmology. The discovery could provide a dramatic new window on the origin and evolution of the universe.
Researchers recommend decentralizing forces and forming alliances to counter threats, as seen in the natural world. By adopting these principles, security systems can become more adaptable and responsive to emerging threats.
A Northwestern University study found that brain cancer patients with malignant gliomas tend to overestimate their quality of life compared to their caregivers. The research suggests that caregivers play a crucial role in providing a more accurate assessment of the patient's well-being.
The Biodiversity of Saba Bank collection provides critical information on the benthic communities and reef fish that inhabit the Saba Bank. The research reveals six new species potentially new to science collected from one of the largest coral reefs in the Caribbean, highlighting the need for marine protected areas to protect this uniq...
Researchers at Henry Ford Hospital found that exercise programs like ExCITE improve quality of life and reduce fatigue in breast and prostate cancer patients. The study, which followed patients for one year after treatment completion, also showed benefits in physical and psychological well-being.
Scientists are investigating new clean-up methods to limit environmental damage, including applying dispersants underwater and boosting naturally-occurring bacteria that can break down oil. The effectiveness of these approaches remains to be seen as massive amounts of oil remain in the ocean.
Researchers have identified a small RNA molecule that controls social behavior in Myxococcus xanthus, a soil bacterium. The mutation of interest, 'Pxr', had previously been found to give an evolved mutant of M. xanthus a competitive edge over both the mutant's immediate parent and its ancestor.
A recent study by Queen's University found that governments can earn substantial returns on investments in solar power manufacturing, with potential revenues exceeding $500 million per year. The research suggests that governments should aggressively support the industry to take advantage of the financial opportunity.
Researchers have directly observed the instantaneous velocity of tiny Brownian particles, contradicting Einstein's long-held prediction. This breakthrough uses optical tweezers to trap and measure glass beads suspended in air, validating the equipartition theorem.
The US plan prioritizes prevention, treatment, and law enforcement, focusing on reducing youth drug use and prescription abuse. In contrast, the UK is facing criticism for its drug policy, which has been influenced by media pressure and ideological opinions, leading to a lack of evidence-based decision-making.