Mayo Clinic researchers discovered a connection between two proteins, progranulin and sortilin, which may lead to new treatment options for frontotemporal lobar degeneration. The study found strong associations between genetic variants in the same region of chromosome 1 and plasma progranulin levels.
Children with severe congenital heart defects are twice as likely to experience anxiety at 18 months old compared to healthy peers. The research, conducted by the Norwegian Institute of Public Health, also found that maternal anxiety and depression contribute to these emotional problems.
A new citizen scientist initiative is expanding regional climate modeling efforts, exploring southern Africa, Europe, and the western US, using idle computers of thousands of volunteers. The project aims to fine-tune future climate models by comparing simulations with real data and analyzing changes over the past 50 years.
Researchers have isolated a key hormone, alpha-1, that allows Phytophthora to reproduce, leading to extensive damage to food crops and ornamental plants. The synthesis of a synthetic version of the hormone offers a promising basis for developing an effective method to control the fungus.
Researchers at Caltech have demonstrated quantum entanglement for a four-part quantum state stored in four spatially distinct atomic memories. The team successfully created quadripartite entanglement by entangling the spin waves among four collections of Cesium atoms, which were then transferred to four beams of light.
Researchers argue that racial profiling is fundamentally flawed and no more effective than standard uniform random sampling techniques. It can lead to false assumptions, unfair detention of innocent individuals, and even radicalization.
Researchers identified key proteins controlling centrosome separation, which could prevent uncontrolled cell proliferation in cancer. Combining drugs against different regulators may reduce side effects and improve treatment outcomes.
In a Phase I trial, MK-4827 demonstrated anti-tumour responses in both sporadic and BRCA1/2 mutation-associated cancers. Patients with exhausted standard therapies showed significant shrinkage or stabilization of tumours for extended periods.
Researchers have found that vitamin C can prevent the onset of sepsis and even reverse the disease by restoring blood flow to vital organs. Early and delayed injections of vitamin C have been shown to improve survival rates in mice with sepsis, making it a promising treatment option.
A team of researchers developed a dual scanning tunneling and microwave-frequency probe to study nanoscale interactions, enabling the measurement of physical, chemical, and electronic interactions between single molecules and substrates. The probe can locate and switch single molecule switches on substrates with high resolution.
Researchers have identified a novel oncogene GNA11 associated with uveal melanoma in over 40% of tumor samples. This discovery offers new targets and treatments for the disease, which affects about 1,500 people in the US each year.
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is an independent predictor of death from all causes, doubling a veteran's risk of mortality. Researchers found that PTSD veterans had more severe coronary artery disease, with accelerated atherosclerosis being a key mechanism behind the excess mortality risk.
Researchers found that a mutation in the MeCP2 gene leads to the mobilization of L1 retrotransposons in brain cells, reshuffling their genomes and possibly contributing to the symptoms of Rett syndrome. This discovery sheds light on the complexity of molecular events underlying psychiatric disorders such as autism and schizophrenia.
Researchers found boys are more likely to receive an autism diagnosis despite equally severe symptoms, suggesting a gender bias in diagnosis. The study also discovered older mothers are better at identifying their children's difficulties and have more confidence in bringing concerns to the clinic.
Researchers at the University of California, San Diego discover that statins activate white blood cells' ability to kill bacteria. Statins stimulate phagocytes to release extracellular traps that ensnare and kill bacteria before they spread in the body.
The US saw a two-year decline in preterm birth rates, primarily among babies born just weeks early, while many states improved in at least one contributing factor. The overall national rate remains high compared to top-scoring countries.
A new laser system has been developed at Stanford that uses optical coherence tomography to create precise cuts in the lens capsule, increasing safety and precision. The system has undergone clinical trials with no significant adverse events.
The structure of Lassa virus protein reveals how it evades the host's immune system and hijacks infected cells' machinery. Scientists discovered a unique mechanism called cap-stealing, where the virus steals the host cell's RNA cap to suppress interferon production.
A recent study by the University of Delaware found that pelletized manure and no-tillage treatments can significantly reduce estrogen concentrations in manure runoff. The study, published in the Journal of Environmental Quality, suggests that measuring all forms of estrogens is crucial to understanding their environmental impact.
A centralized reference pool could help employers and workers by providing a legal safe harbor for employees and allowing them access to references while also enabling recourse through a neutral third party. This system would promote the flow of accurate information with low transaction costs, making labor markets more efficient.
Researchers found that anthrax bacteria use CMG2 receptors to impair the scavenging action of neutrophils and macrophages, allowing the bacteria to multiply and overwhelm the body's defenses. Studying genetically modified mice revealed that mice without CMG2 receptors on immune cells were completely resistant to infection.
The US Geological Survey estimates approximately 13 million metric tons of rare earth elements exist in known deposits across the country. Significant deposits have been found in 14 states, including California, Alaska, and Wyoming.
Researchers found that dim light exposure caused physical changes in the brains of female Siberian hamsters, including a reduced density of dendritic spines in the hippocampus. This is associated with increased depressive-like behaviors and may be linked to melatonin production.
A team of researchers from the University of Calgary has successfully trapped atomic antimatter, a significant breakthrough in understanding fundamental physics. The discovery opens up new possibilities for studying antimatter and its properties.
A clinical study published in Science Translational Medicine shows the Catalys Precision Laser System significantly improves precision in cataract surgery, reducing risks and enhancing visual outcomes. The system's advanced optics and control software enable surgeons to perform critical steps with greater accuracy.
A five-year study funded by DOD aims to assess the ability of longleaf pine ecosystems to absorb climate-changing carbon dioxide. Researchers will analyze data from Fort Polk, Fort Benning, and Camp Lejeune to develop biologically based models for managing these forests.
Researchers found a 30-50% difference in glial cells between female and male rats, which affected social behavior. Exposure to cannabis-like compounds normalized the difference in play behavior in female rats.
A new study found that ICD patients often do not receive optimal medical therapy, while a promising anti-arrhythmic agent and mobile phone-based telemonitoring system showed significant improvements in heart rhythm and blood pressure control. The study also revealed no increased risk of cancer associated with statin use.
Researchers have developed dual-diameter nanopillars that absorb light as well or even better than commercial thin-film solar cells, using less semiconductor material. The new structure, designed by Ali Javey and his team, enables fine control over geometry and shape of the single-crystalline nanopillar arrays.
A new anti-cancer drug, inecalcitol, has shown encouraging responses in men with hormone-resistant prostate cancer. In a phase II(a) clinical trial, 83% of patients responded to the treatment with a drop in PSA levels of 30% or more within three months.
Researchers at UWM have discovered a potential treatment for cocaine addiction that blocks memory retrieval associated with drug use. The study shows propranolol to be effective in preventing relapse by replacing cocaine-associated memories with neutral associations.
A study using advanced imaging technologies has shed new light on left ventricular non-compaction (LVNC), a cardiomyopathy associated with heart failure, stroke, and arrhythmias. The research reveals that developing cardiac risks appear to progress over time in patients with LVNC.
OpenStudy enables students worldwide to form study groups and connect with peers in real-time, receiving significant gratification from helping others. With over 11,000 users across 151 countries, the platform has already made a notable impact on global education, promoting peer recognition and motivation.
Researchers have successfully trapped and studied anti-hydrogen atoms using the ALPHA experiment. The findings shed light on the structure and composition of anti-matter, a key to understanding why matter dominates the Universe.
A University of Edinburgh study reveals that nanoparticles used in various products can cause distinct lung injuries in rats, with some triggering asthmatic reactions and others leading to severe damage. Researchers emphasize the need for improved testing methods to assess nanoparticle risks.
Scientists discovered that blocking a molecule's function decreased bone hardness, causing hearing loss, while reactivating it restored the bone's hardness and hearing. The study reveals a molecular pathway regulating bone matrix properties, which may explain rare hearing disorders and connect to conditions like osteoporosis.
Researchers analyzed geophysical changes leading up to the Eyjafjallajökull eruptions, finding that magma movement triggered the reawakening. The volcano swelled for 11 weeks before erupting, with a rapid deformation stopping after the eruption began.
Researchers at Case Western Reserve University found that coaching styles can activate the brain's Positive Emotional Attractor, leading to increased cognitive functioning, openness, and better functioning. In contrast, critical or judgmental coaching methods can lead to the Negative Emotional Attractor, causing people to defend themse...
A new $5.6 million initiative aims to create a system that controls prosthetic limbs naturally by sensing and stimulating nerve activity. The Vanderbilt team, in collaboration with SMU researchers, is developing a neurophotonics-based system that uses laser beams to stimulate sensory nerves and provide feedback to the brain.
A new study published in Psychological Science found that negative gender stereotypes can influence women's financial decision-making, making them more wary of risk. The researchers discovered that when participants were exposed to these stereotypes, women became less likely to take calculated risks and more cautious in their decisions.
The ALPHA experiment at CERN has successfully produced and trapped atoms of antihydrogen, a significant step forward in understanding the difference between matter and antimatter. This development allows for new ways of making detailed measurements of antihydrogen, which will enable scientists to compare matter and antimatter.
The ALPHA collaboration has successfully trapped and stored antihydrogen atoms for nearly two-tenths of a second. By comparing their energy levels to those of ordinary hydrogen, researchers aim to test the symmetry of nature and better understand how antimatter behaves.
Researchers found that functional cardiac stem cells can be isolated from aged and damaged hearts, with women producing more CSCs than men. The study suggests that these stem cells have the potential to regenerate heart muscle and vessel tissue, potentially treating heart failure.
A study by Northwestern Medicine found that CD34+ cells can stimulate new blood vessel formation in ischemic limbs, reducing the risk of amputation. The treatment also showed significant repair of cardiac and vascular tissues, providing evidence for its potential to treat previously irreversible conditions.
The national job market for college graduates is expected to rebound slightly next year, with a 3% increase in hiring anticipated. Large corporations and small, fast-growth companies will drive the hiring growth, but caution should be exercised as it's just the first step out of the recession.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins discovered that NG2+ cells undergo dramatic changes in ALS, growing rapidly and forming abnormal oligodendrocytes that quickly die. This overgrowth suggests a new player in the disease's progression.
A new study reveals that tundra fires in Alaska's North Slope are linked to rising Arctic temperatures and nonlinear climate conditions. The research found a dramatic relationship between temperature and frequency of fires, with temperatures above 10 degrees Celsius increasing fire occurrence.
Researchers at the University of Cincinnati found a potential genetic target, miR765, which can down-regulate protein phosphatase 1 inhibitor-1 and reduce cardiac muscle contractility. This micro-RNA may play a role in heart disease development by decreasing or deactivating proteins that help the heart function at full capacity.
Geraldine Dawson, Ph.D., has been recognized as a "Rock Star of Science" for her extensive contributions to autism research and advocacy. Her work aims to discover the causes and effective treatments for autism, with a focus on improving lives for individuals with autism and their families.
A small study shows that VX-770, targeting the defective CFTR protein, improves lung function and other key indicators in cystic fibrosis patients. The drug has shown promise for treating the root cause of the disease.
Researchers have identified a security system in host cells that viruses exploit to replicate, allowing them to evade the immune system. The discovery sheds light on how some viruses add chemical caps to RNA to bypass host cell defenses.
University of Alberta researchers found a mysterious link between an ancient African lizard and the Komodo dragon. The unique vertebrae shape suggests a shared ancestry, challenging prevailing theories about migration patterns.
Professor Ilkka Hanski is awarded the European Latsis Prize for his pioneering work in metapopulation biology, shedding light on mechanisms maintaining biodiversity and informing conservation. His research on the Glanville fritillary butterfly has become a model system to study general questions.
Scientists have developed a way to deliver an anti-cancer drug to brain tumours using a tiny capsule called a Trojan Horse Liposome. The nanocarrier successfully reduced tumour growth by 73% and prevented severe side effects compared to traditional treatments.
Dr. Michael Wagner's research explores the use of identical rhymes in poetry to understand how languages use emphasis and prosody. The study reveals a systematic difference between French and English speakers' evaluation of poetry, which can help improve computer programmers' production of realistic speech.
A study led by Emory University School of Medicine found that patients with low health literacy are more likely to be hospitalized for heart failure. Adults with lower REALM-R scores were 55% more likely to be admitted, with those from low-income backgrounds and without a college education facing higher risks.
A new analysis by an international team of scientists found that changes in trophic levels of caught fish have little correlation with ecosystem health. In fact, global catches of fish at all trophic levels have generally increased since the mid-80s, contradicting previous warnings about 'fishing down food webs'.
Researchers at Duke University Medical Center discovered a stem cell secreted protein that improves heart muscle repair after a heart attack. The protein, sfrp2, reduces collagen layering and prevents heart failure in study rats.
A Johns Hopkins study of 950 healthy men and women found that nearly 95% of heart attacks, strokes, or heart-related deaths occurred in those with measurable artery-hardening calcium buildup; healthy individuals without calcification had minimal coronary protection. Statin therapy should only be considered for those at greatest risk.
A study found that individuals with a specific gene variant associated with ADHD show increased interference from mind-wandering brain regions during mental tasks. This suggests that the gene may contribute to inattention symptoms, but not hyperactivity.