Researchers found that changes in one part of the skull were linked to changes throughout, challenging the idea of independent evolutionary events. The study used genealogical data and simulated shifts in skull shape associated with human evolution milestones.
Research reveals that women at risk for breast cancer are also at a higher risk for heart disease due to mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes. The study found that these genes regulate heart function and can lead to increased mortality rates after a heart attack.
Researchers discovered the African naked mole-rat's ion channel is altered, making it insensitive to acid-induced pain. The mutation allows for profound impairment of signal transduction, providing a survival advantage in high CO2 habitats.
A study found that 40% of police officers have a sleep disorder, such as obstructive sleep apnea or insomnia, which can lead to adverse health and safety outcomes. The study also showed that positive screening for any sleep disorder was associated with increased risk of depression, burnout, and accidents while driving.
Researchers found that hay fever symptoms peak in the first half of the grass pollen season, regardless of medication use. Symptoms decrease later on, but may be attributed to desensitization or less allergenic pollen.
Researchers discovered that bundling boron nanoribbons can significantly increase their thermal conductivity. The flat surface structure of the nanoribbons allows for tighter contact between individual structures through van der Waals interactions, enabling efficient phonon transmission and enhanced heat transfer.
A new USDA study identifies two inexpensive tests to evaluate promising wheat varieties for their potential as whole-grain cookie flour sources. The research confirms the reliability of the sucrose SRC test and milling softness equivalent test for early screening.
Dr. Chen's TURBO simulation software is being refined using Ohio Supercomputer Center resources to improve turbomachinery component design. The goal is to develop a reliable prediction technology to enhance engine performance and reduce costs.
Researchers at Indiana University have developed a method to measure microscopic changes in cone cells using optical coherence tomography (OCT) phase differences. They found the outer segments of cone cells grow at a rate of about 150 nanometers per hour, which is significantly faster than human hair growth.
A team of researchers developed a computer model based on human neural structure and function to recognize shapes. The model, inspired by the hierarchical organization of the human visual cortex, successfully reproduced human performance in identifying shapes, opening up new ways to approach object detection problems.
A Vanderbilt University team has created a new method to optically assess the response of cancer cells to a specific drug, using light to visualize metabolic pathways. The technique could enable real-time monitoring of tumor response and help doctors make timely treatment decisions.
Researchers at Kyoto University have discovered a way to create ultra-high-speed transistors and high-efficiency photovoltaic cells using terahertz pulses. The study found that exposing gallium arsenide to a single-cycle terahertz pulse increased electron density by an astonishing 1,000-fold.
Coogan will investigate the effects of air pollution on hypertension and diabetes incidence in African American women, using data from the Black Women's Health Study. The study aims to inform public policy on air quality regulation and provide insight into a novel pathway whereby air pollution causes cardiovascular events.
A Tel Aviv University study found that anxious people are less stimulated by fear-inducing images than non-anxious individuals, suggesting an under-reaction to subtle threatening stimuli. This leads to a 'surprise' reaction to fearful stimuli that non-anxious individuals have already subconsciously noticed and evaluated.
Researchers found single-sex vaccination to be the most effective strategy for reducing human papillomavirus (HPV) infection rates. By vaccinating the sex with the highest pre-vaccine prevalence of HPV infection – typically females – immunity can be bolstered and herd immunity improved.
Researchers at Berkeley Lab found evidence of non-linear DNA damage response to low dose radiation, suggesting a non-proportional relationship between dose and cancer risk. The study used time-lapse live imaging to observe the formation of DNA repair centers, which may be an optimal way for cells to deal with sparse damage.
A Mediterranean diet rich in vegetables and fish is associated with a 20% increased chances of living longer, according to a Swedish study that followed 70-year-olds for over 40 years. The H70 study found that those who consumed more meat and animal products had a lower chance of survival.
Researchers at Caltech have conducted high-pressure experiments on iron to study its behavior under extreme conditions found in the Earth's core. They obtained unprecedented measurements of iron's vibrational properties, which will help estimate the amount of light elements in the core.
Tropical Storm Washi dumped heavy rains over Mindanao, triggering catastrophic flash floods and mudslides. Rainfall totals reached 200-400 mm along the east coast, equivalent to four months of rainfall in Washington, D.C.
A new study found that nearly all emergency departments in Indiana shared patients, challenging conventional wisdom about health care systems. The research highlights the need for instant access to patient information across geographic areas and the nation.
Researchers found that routine removal of neck lymph nodes during initial thyroid surgery for papillary thyroid cancer may lead to lower disease recurrence rates and lower levels of thyroglobulin, a thyroid tumor marker. This procedure may reduce the need for further surgeries in the critical central area of the neck.
Research from Concordia and McGill universities found that breastfeeding protected infants from contaminated food and water, while also postponing the arrival of siblings, leading to improved maternal and child health. French-Canadian children who were weaned earlier faced a disproportionate number of deaths.
Researchers at the University of Gothenburg have collected new data that may lead to better climate models. Plant emissions are influenced by climate change, increasing the rate of biological processes and particle formation, which in turn affects cloud formation and precipitation.
Aalto University researchers have developed a new method to manufacture fuel cells that requires 60% less costly catalyst, significantly reducing production costs. This innovation enables the creation of more economical alcohol fuel cells using palladium as a catalyst.
A new study published in Frontiers in Ecology and the Environment found that forest thinning to prevent or reduce severe wildfires releases more carbon into the atmosphere than saved by successful fire prevention. The research analyzed the effect of fuel treatments on wildfire and carbon stocks in several scenarios, concluding that eve...
Vitamin E helps repair tears in plasma membranes that protect cells from outside forces. Daily consumption of vitamin E is crucial to maintain healthy muscles and prevent conditions like muscular dystrophy and diabetes.
A study analyzing lung and spleen tissue from patients who died of sepsis revealed biochemical, cellular, and histological findings consistent with immunosuppression. The research found evidence of impaired immunity in patients with sepsis, which could have important therapeutic implications.
Patients treated with diuretic chlorthalidone had significantly lower death rates and longer life expectancy compared to placebo, according to a study published in JAMA. The researchers found that long-term antihypertensive therapy was associated with 1 day prolongation of life expectancy free from cardiovascular death per month.
A recent study reanalyzes data from 'Project MIX', finding that tobacco company Philip Morris obscured findings of toxicity by adjusting data. The authors also found significant increases in carcinogenic chemicals when additives were included.
Scientists at NPL developed a functional model of the native extracellular matrix, providing structural support for cells to aid growth and proliferation. The model could lead to advances in regenerative medicine by mimicking the complex nano-to-microscale structure of the ECM.
Researchers at the University of Illinois have developed a self-healing system that can restore electrical conductivity to cracked circuits in less time than it takes to blink, allowing devices to work longer and reducing waste. The system uses microcapsules that break open and release liquid metal to fill in gaps in the circuit.
Ecologists warn that frankincense production could be halved in the next 15 years as Boswellia tree populations decline dramatically. The study found that factors other than tapping, such as fire, grazing, and insect attacks, are contributing to the decline.
Lund University has received a total of SEK 40 million in funding for its geology and biology research. This includes SEK 25 million for Birger Schmitz's ERC-funded project Astrogeobiosphere, which explores the link between life on Earth and astronomical events.
Researchers used AAV vectors to increase NGF levels in the hearts of diabetic mice, preventing cardiac dysfunction and preserving blood flow. The study suggests NGF gene therapy may have tremendous therapeutic potential for treating diabetic cardiomyopathy.
Bacteria manipulate a natural cellular process to divert raw materials for building and disguising a structure that houses the bacteria as it replicates. The modification creates a dam, blocking proteins from reaching their destination, allowing the bacteria to blend in with the cell.
A study of 778 patients found that obesity significantly increases the risk of cancer recurrence and death after esophageal cancer surgery. Patients with a body mass index of 30 or higher had only an 18% five-year survival rate, compared to 36% for those of normal weight.
A study estimates global malaria incidence to be 225 million episodes worldwide in 2009, using routine surveillance data. The authors find that accurate surveillance is essential for monitoring progress towards the United Nations' Millennium Development Goals and controlling malaria outbreaks.
A novel analytical framework, called a 'house model,' can help develop and strengthen health systems in post-conflict countries. The framework focuses on the production, deployment, and retention of health workers, highlighting the importance of linkages between different components of the human resource system.
A Kaiser Permanente study found that the Early Start program reduces maternal and neonatal morbidity and stillbirths, resulting in an average net cost benefit of $5.9 million annually. The program's accessibility to patients and integration with prenatal care significantly contribute to its success.
A new study uses weather forecasting models to predict the spread of brain tumors, demonstrating the feasibility of a mathematical approach. The model, known as LETKF, provides accurate and efficient predictions of tumor growth and spread, taking into account errors in model parameters and measurement uncertainties.
Researchers found that infants retain an 'inkling' of object existence without remembering its shape. The study's findings shed light on brain mechanisms supporting memory in infancy and beyond.
Researchers have developed a method using quantum computing to measure magnetic fields accurately, enabling the creation of nanoscale MRI instruments. This breakthrough could lead to non-invasive studies of molecules and living cells without destroying them.
Jordan Grafman, director of traumatic brain injury research, has received the prestigious Humboldt Research Award for his significant contributions to understanding brain function and behavior. The award recognizes his work on cognitive neuroplasticity and its applications in medicine, rehabilitation, and psychology.
The Leonard Wolfson Experimental Neurology Centre will accelerate the development of treatments and identify future therapeutic targets for neurodegenerative diseases, aiming for earlier intervention for patients. The centre will be based at UCL's National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery.
The University of Nevada, Reno is using a new fiber-optic distributed temperature sensing system to monitor sea and ice temperatures in Antarctica. The system will provide continuous data on the effects of climate change on glacial ice and sea levels.
Researchers analyzed changes in ocean oxygenation at the end of the last Ice Age, finding a dramatic decline in dissolved oxygen concentrations. This suggests that climate change may lead to significant oxygen depletion in oceans, harming marine life.
A novel study led by UCSF found that mammograms detect slower-growing breast cancers in women over 50, increasing the likelihood of good prognosis without treatment. The research provides a basis for integrating molecular profiling to avoid overtreatment and improve care.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins University discovered that losartan, a blood pressure medication, reduces lung disease caused by cigarette smoke exposure. The study suggests other TGF-beta targeted therapeutics might be viable candidates for COPD treatment.
A new study found that individuals with a present-focused personality are more aggressive when intoxicated, while those who consider future consequences show minimal increase in aggression. The study involved 495 adults and used a computer-based speed reaction test to measure aggression.
The European Society of Cardiology emphasizes the importance of measuring rates of rehospitalization following percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) procedures. A US study found that 12.4% of PCI patients need unplanned readmissions, highlighting the need for improvements in care and better data in Europe.
A Queen's University study found that men prefer sons while women want daughters, despite cultural norms of gender neutrality. The results suggest an intrinsic desire to leave a legacy, with men envisioning this through male heirs.
Researchers found that increasing EET levels promotes tumor growth and metastasis, even in cancers that rarely spread. Blocking EETs, however, could reduce tumor growth and metastasis, suggesting a potential new avenue for cancer treatment.
A new study measures brain function to assess the impact of aging on a nation's economy. Cognitive function is found to be a better indicator of the burden of aging than chronological age. The study suggests that education, nutrition, and health standards are key factors in maintaining cognitive ability across nations.
Researchers found that people in lower socio-economic classes are more physiologically attuned to suffering and quicker to express compassion than their more affluent counterparts. This challenges previous studies that characterized lower-class individuals as prone to anxiety and hostility. The study suggests a culture of compassion am...
A protein linked to learning and memory plays a crucial role in driving desert locusts from harmless grasshoppers to destructive swarms. Researchers discovered that this protein acts as a molecular switch in social feedback loops, triggering the locusts' gregarious behavior.
Aalto University researchers have developed a new bioprocess that uses only lignocellulose from wood biomass to produce chemicals and biofuel. This process avoids wasting any parts of the wood sugar and can be used in existing combustion engines without modifications.
Researchers found that EET-enhancing drugs promote tumor growth and metastasis in mice, raising concerns about their use in humans. The findings suggest that these drugs could also worsen cardiovascular diseases.
Researchers at Georgetown University Medical Center found that acupuncture significantly reduces levels of neuropeptide Y, a protein linked to chronic stress, in rats. The study suggests that acupuncture may offer a proven therapy for stress relief, which is often difficult to treat.
Researchers developed an infrared-based method to measure material temperatures in the presence of flames, providing a clear picture of thermal behavior. This technique has applications in the aeronautical industry and can be applied in other sectors where fire resistance is crucial.
A mindfulness-based group intervention significantly reduced stress levels and fatigue in patients with rheumatoid joint disease, with lasting improvements also seen. The study found no comparable reductions in the comparison group, highlighting the potential benefits of mindfulness strategies for managing arthritis-related distress.