Researchers from the University of Southampton contributed to a major UN report on the world's land and water resources for food and agriculture. The report notes that global food production is projected to increase by 70% globally and nearly 100% in developing countries, putting pressure on agricultural systems.
Regulatory T cells (Tregs) downregulate helper T cell activity, suppressing immune response. This can lead to cancer progression and escape from immune defense. The study aims to understand Treg mode of action and develop immune therapies against cancer.
The Ground Renewable Expeditionary ENergy System (GREENS) provides continuous power to Marines in the field, reducing the need for fuel transport and minimizing logistics expenses. Developed by ONR, GREENS is a portable, lightweight, and modular system that uses solar power to generate electricity.
Researchers at UNC may have found a way to awaken the dormant allele of Ube3a, leading to potential treatments for Angelman syndrome. The team used FDA-approved drugs like irinotecan and topotecan to 'awaken' the paternal allele, resulting in functional protein expression.
New study reveals bacteria in large intestine slow down 'good' fat tissue activity, affecting energy usage and weight gain. Researchers found links between intestinal bacteria, gender differences in weight, and brown fat activity.
A study found that minority religions view malls as central meeting places, seeking comfort in shared beliefs. Dominant religious groups experience 'consumption mass hysteria,' leading to debt and excess.
A new study reveals that precise regulation of myosin phosphorylation is crucial for uterine activity during labor. The researchers discovered that specific amino acids are phosphorylated to control uterine contractions, providing insights into premature births and failed inductions.
Researchers at Boston Children's Hospital developed a new mathematical model to predict drug-ADE relationships, identifying issues up to 5 years before they occur. The approach has shown promising results, correctly predicting 42% of absent drug-ADE relationships and accurately recognizing false pairs.
A new study published in the Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation found that aquatic therapy beginning 6 days after TKA significantly improved results. In contrast, delaying its onset after THA may be more appropriate. Aquatic therapy has been shown to reduce effusion in the knee joint, leading to less pain.
Research suggests that prejudice arises from a fundamental psychological need to make quick judgments and reduce ambiguity, often leading to stereotyping and generalizations. This way of thinking is linked to people's desire to categorize the world and rely on social norms.
Gladstone and UCSF scientists have discovered how HIV commandeers human proteins to weaken the body's defenses and enhance virulence. The study identifies a key interaction between HIV protein Vif and the human protein CBFß, which enables the virus to infect CD4 T cells.
Scientists have discovered how to build doughnuts with Lego blocks using a novel material with internal nanostructure made of two chemically discordant polymers. The discovery sheds light on the self-assembly of these materials, which could lead to breakthroughs in data storage, nanoelectronics, and pattern creation.
A study by Penn State researchers found Fusarium fungus in nearly 70% of sink drains, posing a significant health risk. The fungus can cause opportunistic and fatal infections, particularly among individuals with compromised immune systems.
NASA's WEBB Telescope has successfully completed cryogenic testing on its primary and secondary mirror segments, proving their ability to operate at extremely low temperatures. The testing, conducted at the X-ray and Cryogenic Facility, verified the mirrors' shape changes with temperature as expected, ensuring crisp focusing in space.
Researchers found that NMDA receptors on dopamine neurons are essential for habit formation, allowing brain cells to communicate and increase activity. The discovery provides new direction for therapy to treat diseases like Parkinson's and opens the door to speeding up good habit formation.
Researchers at Tufts University developed silk-based microneedle systems that can precisely control drug release rates and maintain bioactivity. The technology has the potential to address limitations in existing painless drug delivery mechanisms and prevent local infections.
A new study by Canadian researchers aims to dispel the myth of Murphy's Law by showing that human error can be minimized through rigorous testing and analysis. By implementing checks and balances, industries can improve reliability and safety, reducing the likelihood of catastrophic failures.
The FDA has established an international consortium of orthopedic registries to develop a unified method for analyzing and reporting multinational registry data. The ICOR aims to identify the best implants for patients worldwide, improving patient safety.
A new study published in Neuron found that the brain can split attention into multiple 'spotlights' when focusing on two or more objects. This challenges traditional views on multitasking and suggests a more efficient way of processing information.
Scientists have uncovered the intricacies of how inhalation anesthetics work in children and adults by studying C. elegans. The study found that specific potassium channels are crucial in this process and may be sensitive to potential reversal with certain medications.
A study of 26 wealthy nations found that countries with a higher density of fast food restaurants per capita had much higher obesity rates compared to those with lower densities. Obesity rates in the US and Canada were significantly higher than in Japan and Norway, suggesting free market policies may have unintended side effects.
A recent study found that less than 47% of adults are properly immunized for tetanus and 39% of those over 65 receive the pneumococcal vaccine. Dr. Vivien Brown advocates for moving immunization to the top of health checklists, with both doctors and patients taking responsibility for tracking vaccination records.
Astronomers have discovered two Earth-sized planets, KOI 55.01 and KOI 55.02, that survived the red-giant expansion of their host star, KIC 05807616. The planets are extremely close to their host star and experience harsh temperatures up to 16,000 degrees Fahrenheit.
A new report reveals that the reintroduction of wolves to Yellowstone National Park has led to a profound rebirth of life and ecosystem health. Trees and shrubs are beginning to recover along some streams, providing improved habitat for beaver and fish. Birds and bears also have more food available due to the decrease in elk populations.
Twitter's US growth relied on media attention and traditional social networks based on geographic proximity and socioeconomic similarity. The site's popularity spread via face-to-face interactions, with early adopters in cities close to Boston and San Francisco.
Researchers found an abnormality in the early steps of auditory processing in the brain, called 'sampling', linked to dyslexia. Dyslexics exhibited enhanced responses to high-frequency rhythms that interfered with verbal memory.
Researchers at NIST have developed a new device that can perform neutron interferometry in a much smaller space, increasing its sensitivity and speed. This innovation could enable the technique to be used in industries such as materials science and manufacturing.
A comprehensive study of ocean acidification has made key findings, showing that some marine ecosystems are already experiencing acidity levels not predicted to occur until the end of the century. The study used sensors developed at Scripps Institution of Oceanography and found variability in seawater pH within and across ecosystems.
Researchers found that treating crickets with epinastine abolished the winner effect, suggesting a link between adrenaline-like systems and increased aggression. The aggression levels returned to normal within 20 minutes post-fight.
Scientists developed a way to deliver therapeutic human cells to diseased areas using superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles. The new process, reported in ACS' journal Langmuir, successfully attaches these nanoparticles to the outside of human cells without causing damage.
In 2011, NOAA researchers made significant discoveries about storm systems, oceanic and atmospheric research, and environmental threats. They found that human-caused aerosol increases linked to decreased monsoon rainfall in South Asia, while also improving weather forecasting capabilities.
Research suggests that pregnancy's massive hormonal fluctuations prepare a woman's brain for motherhood, leading to improved stress tolerance and baby sensitivity. However, there may be costs to these changes, and more comprehensive studies are needed to develop interventions for at-risk mothers.
The International Botanical Congress approves new rules allowing electronic publication and English translations for plant species names, facilitating faster discovery and conservation. This change aims to accelerate the process of documenting biological diversity before it is lost due to environmental issues.
A recent study published in Neuron reveals that rare genetic mutations, specifically copy number variants, contribute significantly to the risk of early onset bipolar disorder. These findings suggest that de novo mutations play a crucial role in the development of the disease, which appears in childhood or early adulthood.
A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized control trials found no improvement in overall survival for adult patients with advanced follicular lymphoma who received high-dose chemotherapy and ASCT compared to conventional-dose chemotherapy alone. The study concluded that HDC-ASCT is not effective as a primary treatment option.
A novel approach to analyze potential health hazards associated with pesticides and toxic chemicals has been proposed by a UM researcher. The new model can predict the likelihood of illness from chemical mixtures and reduces data requirements significantly.
Researchers at Stanford have developed a new technique to pack molecules closer together in organic semiconductors, more than doubling the speed of electrical charge movement. This breakthrough enables faster electronics for foldable devices and solar-powered energy harvesting.
A Rutgers study found significant disparities in depression diagnosis and treatment among the elderly, with African Americans less likely to receive a diagnosis or be treated. The researchers identify barriers such as stigma, lack of access to therapists, and financial factors contributing to these disparities.
Researchers at UCLA's Laboratory of Integrative Neuroimaging Technology use functional MRI brain scans to study mental activity patterns. They employ computerized machine learning methods to identify cognitive states and anticipate neurocognitive changes similar to predictive text-entry for cell phones and Internet search engines.
A new study found that many commercial beers, including some labeled as low-gluten, contain significant levels of gluten. Two beers labeled 'low-gluten' had as much gluten as regular beer, highlighting the need for accurate testing.
The American Chemical Society revisited key research advances from 2001, including self-healing plastics and carbon-based electronic devices. These discoveries have had lasting impacts on various fields of science.
The University of Copenhagen has launched a new research platform aiming to develop hybrid technologies for more efficient production of biofuels. The platform will test dual-purpose crops that can provide both food and biomass for fuel and chemicals, aiming to reduce the industry's reliance on oil.
A study by the University of Colorado School of Medicine found that crowded emergency departments lead to delayed and less effective pain management for children with acute long bone fractures. Patients were 4-47% less likely to receive timely care and 3-17% less likely to receive effective care when crowding was high.
The SAV001 vaccine, developed by Dr. Chil-Yong Kang's team, has shown strong immune responses in preliminary tests with no adverse effects. It is the only HIV vaccine under development in Canada and one of few globally.
Astronomers using NASA's Kepler mission have detected two Earth-sized planets, Kepler-20e and 20f, orbiting a G-type star. The discovery brings scientists closer to their goal of finding a twin Earth, with the planets expected to have rocky compositions and masses less than those of Earth.
A research team has developed a handheld, mobile device capable of rapidly detecting brain injuries such as hematomas in patients with traumatic brain injuries. The device uses near-infrared imaging to detect changes in blood volume and can be used for quick screenings before more expensive imaging techniques.
Researchers at Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine received a $6.75 million grant to investigate the role of innate immunity in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). They discovered a deficit in infection-fighting cells, leading to a buildup of harmful agents in the body.
Scientists found that hot chilies in dry areas produce fewer seeds due to reduced water efficiency, while non-pungent plants dominate in wetter regions where the fungus thrives. Pungency increases along a 185-mile line from dry to wetter regions.
A phase 2 study shows that aflibercept reduces the development of malignant ascites, a common complication of advanced ovarian cancer, and improves symptoms. However, it also increases the risk of fatal bowel perforations.
Glaciers are shrinking at a rapid pace, with water levels potentially decreasing by 30% during the dry season. The accelerated glacial retreat poses serious problems for millions of people dependent on the water for electricity, agriculture, and drinking water.
Researchers found that infants who ate starchy table foods with added salt preferred salty taste at 6 months, consuming 55% more salt. At preschool age, these children were more likely to consume plain salt, demonstrating the enduring influence of early dietary exposure.
A study by Juan Rodríguez Teruel found that half of Spanish ministers are specialists in their field and have a university degree, challenging the notion of low ministerial qualifications. The study also revealed that most ministers hold power for short periods, often changing offices after three years or less.
A new candidate malaria vaccine has been developed to neutralize all strains of the deadly Plasmodium falciparum parasite. The vaccine induces an antibody response in animal models capable of neutralizing multiple strains, providing a promising target for vaccine development.
Researchers from Southwest Research Institute and Nebraska Wesleyan University discovered a strong ultraviolet-wavelength absorber on Pluto's surface, indicating the presence of complex hydrocarbon and/or nitrile molecules.
A 10-year study found that participants with an increase in resting heart rate were at a higher risk of death from all causes and ischemic heart disease. The researchers also discovered that changes in resting heart rate over time do not show a general benefit in relation to ischemic heart disease mortality.
The 'plasma brush' uses chemical reactions to disinfect and clean out cavities, forming a better bond for cavity fillings. This technology could reduce costs by 75% and increase the lifespan of fillings by 60%, benefiting patients and dentists.
A new study found that vertebrate evolution exhibits 'head-first' diversity, where head features diversified before body shapes and types around extinction events. This discovery contradicts previous models of adaptive radiations, suggesting feeding-related pressures are the initial drivers of diversification.
A new technology called RootChip enables scientists to analyze root tissue in intact live plants, revolutionizing the field of root studies. The device monitors real-time responses to environmental changes, revealing key insights into nutrient acquisition and carbon sequestration.
Researchers developed a nanowire-based optical probe for single-cell endoscopy, overcoming the diffraction barrier in visible light microscopy. The endoscope can deliver genes, proteins, or therapeutic drugs into cells without damaging them.
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.