Researchers found that identical twins were more likely to both have autism than fraternal twins. The study suggests that shared environment accounts for about 55% of the risk, while genetic factors contribute less, around 40%. This finding may shift future research paradigms.
A study of over 8000 British civil servants found that higher levels of overall life satisfaction were linked to a reduced risk of total coronary heart disease. Satisfaction in specific domains, such as job and family, also showed protective effects against heart disease.
The California Autism Twins Study suggests that both genetic and shared environmental factors significantly increase the risk of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in twins. Environmental influences such as parental age, low birth weight, multiple births, and maternal infections during pregnancy may greatly increase the risk for ASD.
A study found that neonatal deaths in intensive care units increased when life-sustaining treatments were withheld, while CPR use decreased over time. The trend suggests improved recognition of medical futility and a desire for peaceful death among parents.
Researchers found that July is the best month for kelp harvesting due to its high carbohydrate levels and low metal content. The use of kelp as a biofuel source has potential to provide a storable energy source, mitigating the limitations of other renewables like wind power.
A previously understudied amyloid peptide, A-beta-43, is more abundant and neurotoxic than previously studied peptides in promoting Alzheimer's disease. The findings suggest a potential role for A-beta-43 as a biomarker for diagnosis and a new approach for preventing AD-causing amyloidosis.
Scientists have gained a deeper understanding of how cells translate genetic information into proteins and processes by deciphering the Mediator protein structure. The research provides an important link to discoveries in the field and has the potential to lead to new treatments for disease.
Researchers from London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine and Queen Margaret University, Edinburgh examined GHIs' operations in Uganda using agency theory. They found strong conflict of interest between GHIs' priorities and the Ugandan government's needs, with the latter preferring flexible resource allocation for long-term benefits.
Researchers developed a digital polymerase chain reaction (PCR) device that sets dramatic new performance standards in sensitivity and accuracy of sample screening. The device enables the direct counting of single molecules isolated in individual chambers.
Researchers discovered a simple blood test for the protein melanoma-inhibitory activity (MIA) can indicate neurofibroma presence. The level of MIA depends on neurofibroma size and growth.
Scientists from the Biomimetics-Innovation-Centre have developed a new anti-fouling surface based on a seed from a species of palm tree. The artificial surface mimics the hairy-like structure of the seeds' surfaces, which constantly move to prevent fouling by marine organisms.
A genome-wide study identified a genetic variant associated with liver cancer development in chronic hepatitis C virus carriers. The DEPDC5 SNP was found to roughly double the odds of developing HCC among Japanese individuals with chronic HCV infection.
Researchers at the University of Cambridge have developed a new, more efficient way of generating spin current using collective motion of spins called spin waves. This breakthrough addresses a major obstacle in spintronics, a technology that could radically change computing with high-speed, high-density and low-power consumption.
New research suggests that warming ocean layers surrounding the Greenland and Antarctic ice sheets will melt underwater portions faster than previously thought. This would increase sea level rise more than already projected.
The Mary river turtle faces dual threats from climate change, including reduced swimming ability and a preference for shallower waters. Rising temperatures could lead to population decline due to decreased access to food supply.
Researchers found that pigeons can recognize individual people using facial characteristics, even when wearing different clothing. This ability is likely an adaptation to their long association with humans, enabling them to distinguish between individuals.
Researchers have discovered that tree frogs' self-cleaning feet can be replicated to create re-useable, effective adhesives. By secreting mucus and moving their feet, the frogs clean their sticky pads as they walk.
Scientists have developed a sensor to detect zinc in zebrafish, which could help understand the role of zinc in diseases like type 2 diabetes, prostate cancer, and Alzheimer's. The new technology has been successfully tested and is expected to aid further research into these conditions.
Researchers have designed a micro air vehicle that can flap, glide, and hover like a bird, combining the benefits of fixed wing MAVs with manoeuvrability. The design was inspired by swifts, which are known for their agility and gliding efficiency.
Young house spiders exhibit perfect angles and regular patterns in their webs, but as they age, their webs deteriorate. The research suggests that degeneration of the central nervous system may be behind this decline, providing a model for understanding aging mechanisms in humans.
A recent study reveals that dentists play a significant role in opioid drug abuse, with many not aware of the risks or proper prescribing guidelines. The research calls for dentists to take steps to reduce leftover painkillers, discuss medication use with patients, and utilize prescription monitoring programs to prevent misuse.
The foundation awarded individual grants to six new researchers and funded 18 collaborative grants, totaling over $3.1 million. The grants focus on reprogramming enzymes and genes into therapies to eradicate cancer stem cells.
Countries with nuclear power programs need a medium-term strategy for spent fuel storage, according to Allison Macfarlane. The disposal of high-level nuclear waste is possible, but planning ahead is crucial to ensure public safety and sustainability.
The NASA Aura Satellite has tracked the spread of nitrogen dioxide from New Mexico and Arizona wildfires, providing critical data on air quality. The satellite's Ozone Measuring Instrument (OMI) detected high levels of NO2 near the Las Conchas fire in New Mexico and the Wallow Fire in Arizona.
A study by Kalman Geyer found that companies participating in the EUREKA program experienced a 28% annual increase in sales volume and a 20% or more annual increase in employment, compared to similar non-participating companies. The survey revealed significant results on the impact of EUREKA participation in both parameters.
Researchers discovered a natural plant compound that blocks vessel growth by interfering with cellular adhesion, found to reduce tumor growth and improve treatment outcomes in animal models. The compound, dehydro-alpha-lapachone, was identified as a potential new class of antiangiogenesis drugs targeting blood vessel formation.
Research suggests planes may induce odd-shaped holes or canals into clouds, potentially increasing precipitation near airports with frequent cloud cover. This inadvertent seeding process works similarly to intentional cloud seeding and may require more frequent de-icing for planes.
A study by Stanford researchers found that extended sleep improved athletic performance in collegiate basketball players, with significant improvements in shooting accuracy and sprint times. The study involved 11 healthy students who slept for an average of nearly 8.5 hours per night during the period of sleep extension.
The Max Cure Foundation and Samuel Waxman Cancer Research Foundation have partnered to fund research targeting the Ewing sarcoma family of tumors. Erwin G. Van Meir's proposal aims to reprogram ESFT cancer stem cells using a small molecule that induces cell death.
A new Australian study found a 40% decrease in summer snowfall over the last 20 years, leading to faster Arctic ice melt. The reduction in snow cover exposes sea ice to sunlight, increasing its melting rate and causing it to become thinner and less extensive.
A recent study found that antimicrobial copper surfaces can reduce the risk of hospital infections by more than 40% in intensive care unit (ICU) settings. The study, conducted at three US hospitals, showed a 97% reduction in surface pathogens and a statistically significant decrease in patient infections.
A new minimally invasive procedure called hidden incision endoscopic surgery (HIdES) eliminates visible scarring in kidney surgeries. The technique, developed by Dr. Patricio Gargollo, offers greater technical flexibility than laparoscopic surgery and has been shown to provide higher satisfaction rates among patients.
Researchers have identified a new potential target for treating Parkinson's disease by blocking T-type calcium channels, which may alleviate movement disorders. This approach has shown promise in a rat model of PD, suggesting a novel therapeutic strategy.
A recent study conducted at Mount Sinai School of Medicine found that introducing baked milk products into the diets of children with milk allergies accelerated the rate at which they outgrew their allergy. After five years, 47% of children in the experimental group could tolerate unheated milk products, compared to 22% in a control gr...
A study found that integrating clinical decision support tools into Picture Archiving and Communication Systems (PACS) improved radiologists' use of the tools, with a 52% increase in usage when access was removed. The integrated approach led to a threefold increase in sessions compared to non-integrated access.
Researchers found clinical and personal barriers hinder mammography screening among African-American women. Interventions can be effective by educating providers to build trust, offer culturally appropriate health education, and make referrals.
Patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) face a higher risk of death when accessing tertiary care centers, according to recent research. Early detection and referral methods can shorten the time from symptoms onset to referral, ultimately improving patient outcomes.
Scientists discovered a unique screw-and-nut joint in weevil hips, allowing for improved leg movement and climbing ability. This innovative feature has been present in over 50,000 weevil species worldwide.
Scientists from Harvard University trained pigeons to fly through an artificial forest, gaining insights into their navigation methods that could inform auto-pilot technology design. The birds' ability to assess obstacles and choose straight routes could lead to more efficient and energy-saving navigation systems.
Researchers at Berkeley Lab have discovered a unique luminescence property in tetrapod nanocrystals that breaks Kasha's rule. The cadmium-selenide/cadmium-sulfide core/shell tetrapods emit light from multiple excited states, showing promising potential for optical sensing and LED applications.
Researchers found that Hawai'i hosts three limpet species, 'opihi makai', 'alinalina' and 'ko'ele, which speciated within the archipelago along an ecological gradient. These findings reset the bar for marine speciation in Hawai'i.
Researchers will use induced pluripotent stem cells and genome editing technology to recreate participants' own heart artery-lining cells in a dish. The goal is to understand how the 9p21 'gene desert' region contributes to heart disease.
Researchers found that early infection with H. pylori bacteria impairs immune system maturation and triggers the accumulation of regulatory T-cells that suppress asthma. Mice infected at an early age enjoyed effective protection, but lost resistance if antibiotics were used later.
The new strawberry variety 'Roseberry' boasts attractive pink blooms and produces sweet, aromatic fruit all summer long. It is highly adaptable to hanging baskets and groundcover, making it an excellent addition to home gardens.
Researchers have developed a magnetic logic circuit and memory that theoretically approach the Landauer limit, dissipating only 18 millielectron volts of energy per operation. This represents a huge reduction in energy consumption for electronics, potentially revolutionizing computing.
Researchers identify VIP signaling pathway key for normal brain development, finding that environmental factors can influence final brain size. A new approach to treating Parkinson's disease is also suggested with T-type calcium channel blockade.
The Virtual Institute VISTRIE is a transnational research group examining how viruses evade the immune system. The team will study immune mechanisms and identify critical antiviral processes using CMV as a paradigmatic model pathogen. This knowledge may lead to new drugs to treat CMV and other virus infections.
Research by the University of Exeter reveals that drinking beetroot juice enables competitive-level cyclists to cut down the time it takes to ride a given distance. The study found that riders who consumed beetroot juice had a higher power output and were 11 seconds quicker over a 4km distance.
The EUREKA project BIO-EXPERTISE has developed a methodological guide to biomethanisation, allowing for more efficient waste treatment in Spain. The research improved the treatment of urban waste, increasing biogas production and electricity generation.
Researchers at Harvard Medical School have developed a new automated bioprinting approach that improves the uniformity and control of embryonic stem cell droplet size. The method delivers faster droplet formation, printing 160 droplets per second compared to traditional manual pipetting methods.
The American Society for Cell Biology (ASCB) has received a $60,000 grant from Nature Publishing Group to support childcare expenses at its Annual Meetings. The ASCB Childcare Awards can be used by scientist-parents to cover costs such as airfare, hotels, and fees related to participating in the five-day event.
A recent study found that self-referral in medical imaging contributes to increased diagnostic imaging growth, with a 59.7% utilization rate of imaging services attributed to non-radiologist self-referers. The study estimates $3.6 billion in excess costs to Medicare Part B annually due to unnecessary imaging.
Research by Berthelot and Len found that athlete performance follows an exponential growth curve to a peak before declining irreversibly between the ages of 20 and 30. This pattern is also observed in other physiological parameters such as lung function and cognitive skills, suggesting a universal law governing human capability evolution.
Researchers at U-M found that mutations caused by aging or disease can lead to a loss of cell identity, resulting in gene expression changes. This instability can have significant impacts on physiological functions, including arrhythmia in mice.
A citywide study found racial disparities in the use of clot-busting drugs for acute ischemic stroke treatment due to delays in seeking care and medical conditions. Despite no racial bias detected in doctors' treatment decisions, education is needed to address these disparities and improve outcomes.
The TRY global database provides 3 million traits for 69,000 plant species, enabling more accurate predictions of ecosystem changes under climate change. This will revolutionize biodiversity research by accounting for variation among species in their traits.
A study by Christopher A. Cullis found that the environment influences helpful mutations in plants, even within a single generation. The experiment showed each strand of flax responded differently to its grown conditions, and the LIS-1 sequence appeared in response to nutrient deficiencies.
Researchers discovered that elite college basketball players who slept for 10 hours a night showed significant improvements in sprint speed and shooting accuracy. A moderate-to-high baseline level of daytime sleepiness was common among the athletes, highlighting the need to prioritize sleep over other training aspects.
A VIP signaling pathway is key to normal brain development, and environmental factors can affect the final brain size. Researchers used a mouse model to study microcephaly, identifying a cellular and molecular mechanism that disrupts brain development.
A European joint project, HCVAX, is developing a novel hepatitis C vaccine based on nanotechnology. The vaccine uses biocompatible nanogels to bring genetic information of the virus into the body, triggering an immune response.