A molecular 'maturation clock' has been identified that regulates the number of branches in tomato plants, leading to increased flower and fruit production. Manipulating this clock could provide agricultural benefits by slowing down branching, resulting in more fruits.
A new study by UC Davis and NOAA reveals that small oil spills can devastate marine life, including commercially important species like Pacific herring. The research found that components of Cosco Busan bunker oil accumulated in embryos and interacted with sunlight to kill them.
A recent study by Ohio State University researchers suggests that a child's emotional relationship with their mother during toddler years may affect their risk of becoming obese as a teenager. The study found that children with poorer-quality early maternal-child relationships were more likely to be obese at age 15.
A study published in PNAS found that Pacific herring embryos in shallow waters died at high rates after the 2007 Cosco Busan oil spill, highlighting an interaction between sunlight and chemicals in oil. The findings suggest oil threats in sunlit habitats, particularly for translucent animals like herring embryos.
Researchers found that women with celiac disease experience higher rates of stress, depression, and disordered eating compared to the general population. Despite managing a gluten-free diet, they often struggle with body image, weight, and shape issues.
Allergy tests are not magic bullets for diagnosis, according to new guidelines from Johns Hopkins Medicine. Blood and skin tests should be used to confirm suspicion and monitor established allergies, but not as standalone diagnostic strategies. This approach aims to prevent misdiagnosis and unnecessary restrictions on patients.
Scientists have developed a new approach to treating autoimmune diseases by creating artificial antibodies that target the MMP9 enzyme. These 'metallobodies' mimic natural inhibitors and selectively block two members of the MMP family, preventing symptoms in mice with inflammatory conditions.
Mayo Clinic researchers identified a gene responsible for hereditary diffuse leukoencephalopathy with spheroids (HDLS), a devastating brain disorder that leads to death between ages 40 and 60. The finding suggests HDLS may be more common than previously thought, allowing for genetic diagnosis without brain biopsy or autopsy.
Researchers developed a new method called HHblits that surpasses PSI-BLAST in performance by increasing sensitivity and precision. By analyzing similar sequences, scientists can infer the structure and functions of proteins more accurately and frequently than before.
Biologists have developed a fluorescent reporter to track ADAR's RNA editing activity in living animals, showing surprising individual variation in fruit flies. The tool reveals ADAR's role in gene expression and disease, offering new insights into RNA editing errors.
Researchers at the University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston used Aplysia californica sea snails to test an innovative learning strategy that improved memory in the brain. The study identified optimal times for learning and showed a significant increase in memory when sessions were scheduled during these peak periods.
Researchers discovered neutrophils exist in the spleen without an infection, contributing new knowledge to biology. These cells have an immunoregulating role, interacting with B lymphocytes to produce antibodies.
Researchers at Ruhr-University Bochum found that sildenafil, the active ingredient in Viagra, makes stiffened cardiac walls more elastic. The drug activates an enzyme that phosphorylates the giant protein titin, causing blood vessels to relax and improving diastolic distensibility.
Researchers found that patients with initial metastatic breast cancer tend to be older and have lower-grade tumors, while those with early relapse after treatment are younger and have more aggressive cancer. The study emphasizes the importance of increasing awareness about breast care and the need for novel therapeutic strategies to im...
Researchers found three genes linked to an increased risk of thyroid cancer, including PTEN, which is a tumor suppressor gene. The study recommends increased surveillance for children with PTEN mutation-causing Cowden syndrome-related disease.
Researchers found that pion decays would produce superluminal neutrinos only if energy and momentum were conserved. However, the OPERA experiment's results cannot be replicated under current physics. The creation of high-energy neutrinos is also supported by observations from IceCube.
A new study proposes four proactive management options for conservation of island bird species, including captive propagation and vaccination against diseases enhanced by climate change. The San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance highlights the importance of acting now to prevent long-term survival challenges faced by the island scrub-jay.
A mysterious line dividing two millipede species in northwest Tasmania reveals a 'border control' mechanism that surpasses human capabilities. The boundary is approximately 230 km long and meets at only one point, with the millipedes rarely entering each other's territory.
Researchers at Imperial College London found that UK's discarded wrapping paper and Christmas cards can be turned into high-grade biofuel, powering vehicles with lower greenhouse gas emissions. The study suggests that using this technology could provide a sustainable alternative to fossil fuels.
A Wayne State University researcher is studying the signaling process that triggers breast cancer transformation. The objective of his three-year study is to evaluate the potential roles of two small proteins in breast cancer progression.
The study suggests that facial expressions evolved as a physiological response to threats, but also took on social roles in human evolution. The authors propose the concept of 'exaptation' and 'ritualization,' where original functions changed over time to become social signals.
New research reveals that many bacteria try to fend off fluoride by throwing it out, and that the presence of this transport system indicates fluoride has antimicrobial properties. The discovery also highlights a genetic switch called riboswitches, which can be used to enhance fluoride's effects against bacteria.
Researchers at UTHealth found evidence that multiple sclerosis affects the thalamus, a brain region controlling cognitive function, sensory processing, and motor skills. The study used MRI scans to compare patients with MS to healthy controls, revealing volume loss in the thalamus related to disease severity.
Researchers found that children as young as 5 predicted that people would feel better after thinking positive thoughts than negative thoughts. As they grew older, there was significant development in their understanding about the emotion-feeling link.
A study found that treating anemia in kidney transplant recipients slows the progression of kidney failure and improves survival of transplanted kidneys. Completely correcting anemia resulted in fewer patients developing kidney failure and more functional transplanted kidneys.
University of Pittsburgh researchers propose a new model to design better flu shots, balancing composition and timing decisions. The model considers multiple strains, production methods, and policy questions, aiming to increase the societal benefit of the flu shot.
Researchers at the University of Illinois developed a method to chemically etch patterned arrays in gallium arsenide, used in solar cells and lasers. The new technique, called metal-assisted chemical etching (MacEtch), is faster and less expensive than traditional dry etch methods.
A recent study found that injecting methamphetamine is associated with an 80% greater risk of attempted suicide compared to other substances. The study's authors suggest that social and structural mechanisms, including isolation and poorer social support systems, may contribute to this increased risk.
Researchers found that Th17 cells, a specialized immune cell group, can confer immunological advantage against infectious organisms. The approach uses protein complexes in the cell membrane as antigens, offering potential for simplified vaccination and broader coverage against diverse bacterial strains.
Researchers at JBEI have developed a breakthrough in engineering systems of RNA molecules through computer-assisted design, enabling the development of new strains of E. coli that can digest switchgrass biomass and convert it into three types of transportation fuels. This technology has the potential to improve the production of advanc...
Bacteria use riboswitches to detect and counteract the effects of fluoride, a key component of toothpaste. The discovery sheds light on how microbes overcome fluoride toxicity, potentially leading to new treatments for dental health issues.
Researchers engineered Anopheles mosquitoes to produce higher levels of Rel2, an immune system protein that attacks malaria parasites. The study suggests that this approach could lead to the development of malaria-resistant mosquito populations.
Stowers researchers find that each class of genes transcribed by RNA polymerase II has a specific class of elongation factors, controlling which genes are transcriptionally regulated. This discovery adds a new dimension to transcriptional elongation control and has significant implications for understanding gene expression.
A new study published in The Lancet shows that multiparametric cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) is superior to single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) for diagnosing coronary artery disease. CMR has a higher sensitivity and negative predictive value, making it a more accurate and reliable diagnostic tool.
A study published in New Phytologist found that the entire Hawaiian population of Sphagnum palustre is a single clone, with genetic diversity comparable to that of sexually propagating populations. This surprising discovery suggests that vegetative propagation can lead to long-term evolutionary success.
A University of Texas at Austin chemist has received a $1.6 million grant to develop a simple, paper-based test for detecting drug-resistant tuberculosis. The goal is to create a real-time test that can be used in resource-poor communities without refrigeration.
Chinese fossils have provided insights into the evolutionary origin of animals from single-cell ancestors. The fossils preserve stages in the life cycle of an amoeba-like organism, revealing a pattern similar to early animal embryology, contrary to previous assumptions.
A new study by McMaster University researchers has found that certain proteins involved in cancer treatment can also combat antibiotic resistance. The study, led by Gerry Wright, screened 14 antibiotic-resistant molecules against 80 chemically diverse protein kinase inhibitors and identified potential repurposing opportunities.
A new study published in The Lancet found that MRI scans are more accurate than SPECT tests in detecting coronary heart disease. MRI scans also do not use ionizing radiation, potentially reducing exposure for patients and healthcare professionals.
Researchers at UCLA have discovered that two-way signaling between niche cells, the progenitor cells themselves, and their daughter blood cells is necessary for maintaining a balanced population of blood cells. This balance ensures the creation and maintenance of the blood supply in Drosophila fruit flies.
Researchers at UT-ORNL discovered that aquatic bacteria made the transition to land approximately 400 million years ago, rather than 2 billion years earlier. This finding has significant implications for bioenergy research, particularly in the development of cellulolytic enzymes for efficient plant growth and bioethanol production.
Research suggests that improving family consent for organ donation could increase rates, with studies showing that only 50% of donors discuss wishes with a family member. Addressing negative beliefs and providing education on brain death can positively impact consent rates.
A longitudinal study of over 17,000 youths found that frequent school absences are associated with a higher prevalence of mental health problems during adolescence. Students who were chronically absent in one year tended to have more depression and antisocial problems in subsequent years.
Researchers at Uppsala University have discovered a genetic mechanism underlying the evolution of fibromelanosis in black chickens. The study highlights the role of genomic rearrangements in driving rapid evolution in domestic animals.
A new study found that while colorectal cancer mortality rates decreased in both African Americans and whites over the past two decades, the rate of decrease was smaller among African Americans. For distant stage disease, the decline was 32.6% for African Americans versus 4.6% for whites.
Scientists at Albert Einstein College of Medicine have discovered a mechanism that controls the survival of messenger RNA in cells, which could lead to new treatments for cancer. The study found that mRNAs made from specific genes are born with molecular self-destruct timers that ultimately destroy them.
Researchers have developed a mouse model that can treat a severe congenital disorder by supplementing pregnant mice with mannose, increasing the production of essential sugar chains. This breakthrough may offer a new therapeutic approach for children with CDG-Ia, who currently have no treatment options.
MSU researchers validate conservation of angular momentum in chemical reactions and suggest using it to control reaction pathways. The discovery could impact fields like molecular electronics, biology, and energy science with new types of chemical reactions.
Researchers have identified a previously unknown gene fusion event in lung adenocarcinoma cases in never-smokers, suggesting that this fusion could serve as a therapeutic target. The study found the KIF5B-RET fusion to occur in about 6% of all lung adenocarcinoma cases.
Researchers have discovered that each type of hair follicle works like a distinct sensory organ, tuned to register different types of touches. This network of neurons allows us to perceive important differences in our surroundings.
Researchers identify PDHK enzyme as a key player in cancer cell metabolism, enabling targeted anti-cancer therapy. Inhibiting PDHK activity slows tumor growth and reduces glucose uptake by cancer cells.
Research by Carnegie Institution scientists found that sea cucumbers dissolve half of the calcium carbonate on coral reefs at night, contributing to their destruction. The team's findings highlight the importance of understanding marine organisms' roles in maintaining the balance of these delicate ecosystems.
Researchers at Penn developed a new MRI contrast agent that targets acidic environments of tumors, improving diagnosis accuracy. The coating technology allows the particles to be neutral near healthy tissue but become ionized in low pH, attracting them to tumor sites.
Researchers have discovered that graphite carbon is a key component of the lubricating layer on metal-on-metal hip implants. This finding could lead to improved designs and longer lifespan for these devices, which are often used by younger, more active individuals.
New research reveals that toddlers don't respond to their own voice in the same way as adults, requiring alternative strategies for controlling speech production. Four-year-olds are shown to monitor their speech similarly to adults, while two-year-olds do not, hinting at a possible reliance on caregivers' feedback.
Researchers develop a new method to reduce erosion in areas ravaged by forest fires using an organic polymer. The treatment, tested on burnt soils in Israel, shows promise in reducing erosion by up to 50%.
Joint BioEnergy Institute researchers have developed CAD-type models and simulations for RNA molecules, enabling the design of complex RNA-based control systems. These systems can process cellular information and program gene expression, holding enormous potential for microbial-based sustainable production of advanced biofuels.
A longitudinal study found that teens who express their own viewpoints in discussions with their mothers are more likely to resist peer pressure. The study also discovered that arguing well with parents about various topics helps teens stand up to peer influences.
A standardized medical terminology system, LOINC (Logical Observation Identifiers Names and Codes), has been adopted internationally as a common language for medical measurements. Developed by the Regenstrief Institute, LOINC enables hospitals and healthcare providers to accurately record, transfer, and use medical data.
Researchers identified conserved lincRNAs that affect brain development in zebrafish and found that their human versions have similar functions. The discovery provides a framework for studying lincRNAs, which are abundant but poorly understood molecules.