Researchers identified 29 new genetic variants linked to multiple sclerosis, shedding light on immunological pathways and immune system involvement. The study confirms 23 known genetic associations and provides insight into a possible link between genetic and environmental risk factors.
Researchers at Harvard discovered that a simple balance of forces determines the formation of the vertebrate gut's predictably loopy shape. The gut grows faster than its attached mesentery tissue, causing it to coil as the elastic forces build up.
Research by University at Buffalo sociologists reveals a marked increase in the portrayal of women as hypersexualized in popular media, leading to cause for concern about negative consequences. The study found that images of men have become more sexualized over time, but women continue to be more frequently and intensely sexualized.
A study of 188 teenagers in rural Georgia counties found that nearly 54% preferred receiving contact via phone with a recorded message from a known researcher. This approach proved more efficient and effective than text messaging or social media platforms like Facebook.
A novel sensory pathway modulates Th17 cell responses, revealing a potential anti-inflammatory mechanism for PI-3K and Akt inhibitors. The study's findings have significant implications for understanding autoimmune diseases and developing new treatments.
A new experimental study from the University of California, San Diego suggests that spoilers don't spoil stories, but rather enhance enjoyment. People who flip to the last page before starting a book have better intuition and prefer spoiled versions of ironic-twist and mystery stories.
A new study explores how class differences impact customer-hospitality worker interactions, revealing a game of status where customers reenact their dominance over workers. The research finds that service workers are not powerless, as they also have interdependent roles in the interaction.
A research team found that blocking the p38α MAPK protein influences behavior, contributing to depression-like symptoms and risk for addiction. The study suggests a novel therapeutic target for promoting stress resilience in models of depression and addiction.
A new study by Harvard School of Public Health researchers finds a strong association between the consumption of red meat—particularly when the meat is processed—and an increased risk of type 2 diabetes. Replacing red meat with healthier proteins can significantly lower this risk.
People with Parkinson's disease who see a neurologist are more likely to live longer, less likely to be placed in a nursing home, and have fewer hip fractures. The study also found disparities in access to care based on gender and ethnicity.
Researchers at Thomas Jefferson University discovered that blocking a receptor of a key hormone in the renin-angiotensin system reduces cancer cell growth by activating the enzyme AMPK, which inhibits fatty acid synthase. This finding suggests a potential target for chemopreventive agents to fight pancreatic cancer.
A new analysis of plants in grassland ecosystems worldwide reveals that most species are crucial for ecosystem functioning. Researchers found that 84% of grassland species promote ecosystem functioning at some point, contradicting previous assumptions about the importance of diversity.
Researchers at Penn State found that consuming high-fat meals with antioxidant spices reduced triglyceride response by about 30 percent, which may help lower heart disease risk. Adding spices to meals also increased antioxidant activity in the blood by 13 percent.
Strains and sprains account for over a third of lower extremity injuries treated at emergency departments. An 'ankle hotline' could spare valuable ER time and resources by providing alternative care options.
A new study suggests that Alzheimer's disease symptoms are less noticeable in people over 80 compared to those between 60-75. Brain scans revealed that executive function, memory, and attention were less abnormal in older adults.
Researchers found that activating p38alpha MAPK reduces stress resilience by decreasing serotonin levels in the brain. This leads to depression-like behaviors, social avoidance, and drug-seeking behavior. The study suggests a novel therapeutic target to promote stress resilience.
Researchers report that certain forms of narcissism can be beneficial for young people, helping them navigate adolescence and early adulthood. In contrast, older adults with similar traits may experience lower life satisfaction and a poorer reputation.
Scientists at Nationwide Children's Hospital have developed a human-cell-derived model of ALS that accurately mimics the majority of cases. The new model reveals that astrocytes may be releasing toxins that contribute to motor neuron degeneration, highlighting the importance of replacing these cells as a potential therapy target.
Consumers tend to focus on quality when faced with many choices, leading them to be willing to pay more for high-quality products. The study found that in controlled experiments and natural experiments, participants were prepared to pay up to 40% more for high-quality chocolates and wine when presented with a large assortment of options.
A large international study has identified 29 new genetic variants associated with multiple sclerosis, providing key insights into the biology of the disease. The research highlights the pivotal role of the immune system in causing damage and helps explain the nature of the immune attack on the brain and spinal cord.
Physicists at NIST have successfully linked the quantum properties of two separated ions by manipulating them with microwaves, enabling a new approach to simplify ion-trap quantum computers. The use of microwaves reduces errors introduced by laser beam instabilities and power fluctuations.
Researchers identified new ADHD genes and showed a link between some of these genes and those found in autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and other neuropsychiatric conditions. The study found that people carrying the same CNVs can have different symptoms, highlighting the complexity of ADHD.
A six-month double-blind study found that higher protein intake during weight loss can offset negative effects on muscle mass by maintaining more muscle relative to the amount of weight lost. Women who ate more protein lost 3.9 percent more weight and had a relative gain of 5.8 percent more thigh muscle volume than woman who did not.
A meta-analysis of 4 million individuals found that women have a 25% higher risk of developing coronary heart disease compared to men who smoke. The longer a woman smokes, the higher her risk becomes.
A large double-blind study has shown that rivaroxaban is noninferior to warfarin for preventing stroke and blood clots in patients with atrial fibrillation. The study found that rivaroxaban use led to less intra-cranial and fatal bleeding, making it an attractive alternative to the current standard treatment.
The recycling of the Earth's crust in volcanoes is faster than previously thought, with rock from oceanic crust resurfacing in the mantle within half a billion years. This discovery was made using volcanic rock samples and challenges the previous estimate of two billion years.
Consumers tend to prefer harder-to-get items and products due to perceived value, even if they require more effort. Researchers found that people prioritize outcomes associated with effort, leading them to favor elusive or hard-to-find options.
A team of researchers at Children's National Medical Center has identified the genetic mutation causing Proteus syndrome, a rare disorder characterized by excessive tissue and bone growth. The study found that a point mutation in the AKT1 gene activates sporadic tissue growth associated with Proteus syndrome.
A new study published in the Journal of Consumer Research found that professional buyers do not engage in 'relationships' with salespeople. Buyers prioritize transactions and expect low expectations for future interactions. This challenges traditional marketing strategies focused on building personal bonds with customers.
A new study finds that California pregnant women have the highest reported exposures to PBDE flame retardants worldwide. The research suggests a link between PBDE levels and thyroid-stimulating hormone, which regulates thyroid activity.
Researchers at the University of Michigan have developed a new anticensorship scheme called Telex, which uses public-key steganography to divert connections through participating ISPs. This system could shift the arms race regarding censorship in favor of free speech and access to information.
EU companies expect global R&D investments to grow by 5% annually, with a significant focus on emerging economies like China and India. Innovation is seen as key to commercial success and job creation, with 27% of annual sales coming from innovative products introduced in the past three years.
A new network of deep-ocean moorings is being deployed in the Indonesia Archipelago to measure changes in ocean currents between the Pacific and Indian Oceans. The moorings will help scientists understand the impact of these currents on Australia's climate, including tropical weather patterns and seasonal rainfall.
A team of scientists successfully forecast the eruption of Axial Seamount, an undersea volcano located off the Oregon coast. The eruption, which began in April, is believed to be at least three times larger than the previous 1998 eruption.
Researchers at Brigham and Women's Hospital have demonstrated the direct participation of IgE in atherogenesis in a mouse model. IgE stimulates macrophage and vascular smooth muscle cell apoptosis, leading to increased atherosclerotic lesions. Anti-IgE monoclonal antibodies may become a novel therapy for atherosclerosis.
Researchers at the University of Nottingham have pioneered a new method for producing graphene nanoribbons, which could revolutionize electronic devices. The breakthrough allows for the creation of nano-switches, nano-actuators, and nano-transistors with unprecedented physical properties.
A new study finds that reducing catches of small 'forage' fish like sardines and anchovies can protect larger predatory species. Halving fishing rates for high-impact species could greatly reduce ecosystem impact while achieving 80% of maximum sustainable yield.
A study found that older women with sleep-disordered breathing were more likely to develop cognitive impairment or dementia than those without. Measures of hypoxia, not sleep fragmentation or duration, were associated with an increased risk.
The Operational Land Imager (OLI), built by Ball Aerospace & Technologies Corp., has been approved for shipment to Orbital Sciences Corporation. OLI will provide more sensitive land cover information and better detect changes over time, benefiting scientific, commercial, and governmental users.
Researchers found adenine and guanine, key components of DNA, in meteorites, providing evidence they were created in space. The discovery supports the theory that a 'kit' of prebiotic material was delivered to Earth by meteorite impacts.
Researchers found that men are willing to take more financial risks, while women take more social risks, such as starting a new career or addressing an unpopular issue. Adolescents can be just as cautious and careful as adults when thinking calmly about a situation.
A Wayne State researcher has discovered an antibiotic that can prevent and treat aseptic loosening, a condition where surrounding bones disintegrate after prosthetic joint surgery. The antibiotic, erythromycin, can be administered directly at the site of bone breakdown, reducing side effects associated with long-term oral use.
A new diagnostic test is being developed to pick up the presence of Alzheimer's disease and other dementias much sooner than possible currently, allowing for more effective treatment. The research could mean patients will receive timely treatment that slows down devastating symptoms.
A new in vitro study reveals that dilating the tricuspid valve opening or displacing its papillary muscles can cause leakage, with combination of both increasing severity. The study's findings suggest improved diagnosis and treatment for tricuspid regurgitation, a condition affecting millions of Americans.
Researchers at Tel Aviv University have developed a pocket-sized sensor that can detect 'date rape' drugs with 100% accuracy. The sensor works by detecting subtle changes in the optical properties of the drink, alerting users to potential danger.
A Scripps Research scientist has identified the critical role of a night blindness gene in facilitating rapid signal transmission in the eye's initial response to light. This discovery sheds light on the molecular mechanisms underlying low-light vision, highlighting the importance of nyctalopin in coordinating the assembly and precise ...
A small amount of exercise has been shown to prevent exaggerated inflammation in the brain and long-lasting memory impairments following a bacterial infection. This study suggests that voluntary exercise can confer robust benefits for those who exercised, especially for older adults at risk of memory loss.
A new study suggests that moderate exercise can prevent age-related memory loss after a bacterial infection. Researchers found that older rats who ran on an exercise wheel showed improved cognitive function and reduced inflammation in the hippocampus compared to non-exercising rats.
Researchers at York University have identified a protein called nesfatin-1 that stimulates insulin secretion and regulates appetite, leading to potential weight loss and improved blood sugar control. The study found that rats administered with nesfatin-1 ate less, used more stored fat and became more active.
A study published in JAMA found that younger black patients undergoing dialysis have significantly higher mortality rates compared to their white counterparts. The disparity is attributed to differential access to transplantation and inadequate dialysis care. Researchers emphasize the need for targeted interventions to address these di...
A Michigan State University study shows that converting Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) land to corn and soybean production creates a significant carbon debt. Growing CRP grasses for cellulosic ethanol instead provides immediate energy and climate benefits, with no carbon debt.
Researchers from CSIRO and universities have developed a pragmatic decision framework for determining when to relocate species due to climate change. The framework considers factors such as population size and expected losses through relocation to determine the best timing for moving species.
Recent research investigates the effects of invasive velvetgrass on a native daisy, revealing direct competition as a key mechanism. The study found that removing invasive species can alter soil communities, leading to lingering negative impacts on native plants.
A recent Review highlights the urgent need for high-income countries to fund interventions addressing unmet mental health needs of displaced children. Exposure to violence is a major risk factor, while support from family and peers can be protective.
Researchers have identified a genetic mechanism that enables viruses to infect plants, causing diseases. By targeting the CHL1 gene, CMV and its satellite virus cause yellowing symptoms in plants by preventing chlorophyll production. This breakthrough allows for the development of altered plant varieties with resistant genes.
A study found that trastuzumab increases the risk of heart problems in elderly women with a history of heart disease or diabetes. The researchers recommend referring these patients to a cardiologist and monitoring for cardiac function.
Non-invasive prenatal tests using cell-free fetal DNA from mother's blood have high sensitivity and specificity for determining fetal sex. The study found that performance improves with later gestation, making this technology useful for early detection of fetuses at risk for sex-linked disorders.
New research provides key clues to looping morphogenesis, helping diagnose conditions like gastric torsion in large breeds and malrotation in babies. The study's findings could also aid in understanding the formation of other organs, such as hearts and vascular systems.
A consortium of universities, small companies, and bigger players in the energy sector has developed a novel approach to reviving biofuels. The project focuses on redesigning engines to adapt to non-conventional fuels, resulting in less noisy and longer-lasting engines.
A research team led by Franz Klein has analyzed the mechanism of meiosis at high resolution, finding that DNA-break machines are tightly associated with chromosomal axis regions. This discovery sheds light on how breaks on chromosomes impede other breaks in their vicinity and how shape changes influence the function of these machines.