Researchers found phase synchronization between El Niño-Southern Oscillation and the annual temperature cycle in the eastern equatorial Pacific. This phenomenon indicates that at certain times El Niño and the annual cycle run according to the same beat, while at other times their phases 'slip past' each other.
Researchers at Joslin Diabetes Center have identified two molecular pathways that activate brown fat, a type of fat that burns energy rather than storing it. The study provides new opportunities to stimulate brown fat growth, which could lead to the development of treatments for obesity and diabetes.
A team of scientists from Kansas State University and seven other institutions is conducting a large-scale experiment to understand the impact of stream organisms on water quality across North America.
Researchers found that information communication technologies were used both to spread freedom messages and to incite violence during civil strife in Egypt and Kenya. The Egyptian government cracked down on blogs and social networks, while telecommunications companies responded differently depending on the government's request.
A new genetic mutation has been discovered in the C9ORF72 gene, responsible for over a third of familial ALS cases. The repeated DNA sequence causes toxic RNA buildup, leading to motor neuron demise and disease progression.
Scientists discovered that a protein called Knickkopf protects the insect's newly formed cuticle from being dissolved by chitinase. This finding has enormous potential for improving selective pest control and developing new biomaterials like football padding or lightweight aircraft components.
Breast cancer researchers identify FGFR3 as a key protein responsible for tumor growth and resistance to hormone therapies. This discovery may lead to the development of novel drugs targeting this protein to treat recurrent breast cancers.
A chance viewing of a new channel forming in the Wabash River provided researchers with a rare opportunity to study dynamic river cutoffs. The event delivered massive amounts of sediment into the river system, changing its landscape and raising concerns about its impact on sediment transport and deposition processes.
A study in Psychological Science found that self-compassion uniquely predicts good outcomes for individuals going through a divorce. Self-compassion, including kindness towards oneself, recognition of common humanity, and the ability to let painful emotions pass, can promote resilience and positive outcomes.
A new analysis of census data estimates that 750,000 soldiers died in the American Civil War, a 20% increase from the commonly cited figure of 620,000. This reevaluation is based on a more detailed comparison of male and female survival rates using historical census data.
Researchers at Georgia Tech and Emory University will develop biomaterials to capture molecules from embryonic stem cells for enhanced tissue regeneration in adults. The goal is to harness regenerative power of stem cells without tumor formation or immune system compatibility issues.
Tens of billions committed globally to improve the health of women and children, with over $11 billion from poorest countries. The Every Woman, Every Child effort aims to reduce death tolls and improve health outcomes through policy and service delivery commitments.
Hermann Muller knowingly lied about safe levels of radiation exposure, says UMass researcher Edward Calabrese. Muller's suppression of evidence led to the adoption of a linear dose-response model that has shaped radiation and chemical exposure regulations.
A study found that MRI screenings detected more breast cancer cases than mammography in high-risk, underserved women. The use of MRI also increased patient compliance with follow-up care. Lowering the cost of MRI may make this screening method more accessible to underinsured populations.
Three Johns Hopkins researchers, including Andrew Feinberg, Gyanu Lamichhane, and Thomas Hartung, have received NIH Director's Awards for their groundbreaking work in epigenetics, tuberculosis, and toxicological testing. Their research aims to revolutionize cancer treatment, develop new antibiotics, and improve human health.
A study of over 30,000 cancer patients found that up to one in five risk developing blood clots called venous thromboembolism (VTE), with risks nearly doubling after a year of treatment. VTEs can be deadly and costly, with average care bills exceeding $110,362 compared to $77,984 for non-VTE patients.
A meta-analysis of 28 prospective cohort studies found depression associated with a 45% increased risk of total and fatal strokes. Depression also increases the risk of ischemic strokes by 25%. The study suggests depression may contribute to stroke through various mechanisms, including neuroendocrine and immunological effects.
USDA researchers are exploring high-resolution digital panoramas to study landscape changes in rangelands. By creating detailed images, scientists can track wildlife populations, invasive plant species, and monitor riparian areas.
A study by Children's Hospital of Philadelphia found that optimal sleep duration for teenagers can help stabilize blood sugar levels and insulin secretion. The researchers discovered that 7.5-8.5 hours of sleep per night may protect against the development of type 2 diabetes in obese adolescents.
The Controlled Impact Rescue Tool (CIRT) rapidly rescues those trapped beneath concrete by creating a contained hole with high-energy jolts, making it up to four times faster than traditional methods. CIRT units have been distributed to various search-and-rescue teams across the US.
Research suggests that genetic variations in mRNA and microRNA play a critical role in prostate cancer disparities between African-American and white men. The findings could lead to more specialized treatment options for African-American patients.
A recent study found that older patient age, congestive heart failure, and preoperative neurological problems are independent risk factors for death and complications after spine surgery. The study analyzed data from the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database.
A new plant species, Spigelia genuflexa, with a rare characteristic of burying its seeds has been discovered in the Atlantic forest of Bahia, Brazil. The plant's 'geocarpy' adaptation ensures its propagation by depositing seeds on the ground and sometimes burying them, similar to peanuts.
Jennifer Juarez, a UTHealth doctoral student, has been awarded two research fellowships to study the spread of E. coli, a hard-to-treat bacterium that can lead to food poisoning and fatal disease. Her research focuses on understanding how bacterial cells divide and proliferate, paving the way for novel antibacterial treatments.
Researchers and experts agree on priority research questions focused on problem analysis, interventions, and context-specific support. The study aims to strengthen mental health support in humanitarian settings through tangible benefits.
A team of researchers at McGill University developed a new device that can float over cell surfaces without touching them, allowing for the study of cellular processes such as cancer cell formation and neuron alignment. The device uses quadrupoles to create force fields and deliver molecules selectively to cells.
Researchers have discovered a potential new biomarker for heart attacks, cardiac myosin binding protein-C (cMyBP-C), which is released into the blood following a heart attack. Elevated levels of cMyBP-C may help diagnose heart attacks more accurately, reducing unnecessary hospital admissions.
The Bulletin of Atomic Scientists has published a special issue on the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Station disaster, featuring articles on the current and future impact of the accident. Experts discuss lessons learned, future responsibilities, and steps to prevent another nuclear tragedy.
Researchers at Stanford University School of Medicine have identified a unique gene fusion in ovarian cancer that could enable early detection and targeted therapies. The fusion, involving genes ESRRA and C11orf20, was found in 15% of aggressive ovarian cancer cases.
A new type of nanoparticle has been developed to deliver chemotherapy drugs more effectively, with a high drug loading capacity and controlled release. The nanoparticle demonstrated significant growth inhibition of pancreatic tumors, showing up to three times higher therapeutic efficacy than traditional chemotherapy drugs.
Researchers at the University of Oregon have developed a new method to account for missing thermodynamic and molecular parameters in molecular dynamic simulations. This approach allows for more accurate predictions of material behavior under various conditions, reducing the need for trial-and-error experimentation. By refocusing inform...
New studies suggest that Arctic sea ice loss is not irreversible, while radiation hazards for spacefarers and air travelers are likely to rise due to solar activity. Researchers also predict an increase in space weather radiation events over the next century.
Two scientists, Dr. Thomas Kosten and Dr. Peter Burkhard, will receive funding to develop a vaccine against methamphetamine addiction and a peptide nanoparticle nicotine vaccine. The vaccines are expected to undergo initial clinical trials within the next five years.
Dr. Douglas A. Mitchell, an Illinois professor, has been awarded the $1.5 million NIH Director's New Innovator Award to develop a generalized toxin-disabling strategy against bacterial pathogens. His approach aims to create drugs that combat pathogenic microbes without promoting antibiotic resistance.
A large, multi-country study found that a fertility-awareness based method of family planning was effective for years. The Standard Days Method, which identifies a 12-day fertile window, showed high effectiveness rates, with fewer than 5% failure rate over three years.
Researchers at the University of Michigan have identified 10 strategies to help patients understand their cancer treatment options and risks. By using plain language, visualizing risk, and considering frequency over percentages, patients can become more fluent in the language of cancer care and make informed decisions.
A Rice University research team is developing a novel system for separating CO2 from power plant smoke stacks. The technology uses waste heat and specialized materials to filter liquids and gases, aiming to significantly reduce energy requirements compared to existing methods.
Researchers at the University of Texas at Austin are developing means to efficiently breed saltwater fish and invertebrates in captivity. Successful breeding has been achieved for seven species, including clownfish, gobies, and coral, reducing reliance on destructive wild-caught methods.
A study published in PLoS Medicine found that early treatment of HIV significantly reduces mortality by 75 percent. The researchers also found that the benefits of early ART outweigh its costs, making it a cost-effective intervention in resource-poor settings.
A recurrent gene fusion between ESRRA and C11orf20 was found in about 15% of serous ovarian cancer cases, suggesting a potential marker for early detection. The discovery sheds light on how these deadly tumors develop and spread.
Research from Cardiff University reveals that invertebrates living on the woodland floor regulate fungal battles, ensuring less competitive species survive. This process maintains soil quality and fertility, supporting native trees and plants.
Researchers have shown they can reverse the aging process for human adult stem cells, which are responsible for helping old or damaged tissues regenerate. The study found that suppressing the accumulation of toxic transcripts from retrotransposons allows for rejuvenation and resetting of 'aged' human stem cells.
Researchers at Stanford Medicine have engineered human heart cells that respond to light, using optogenetics. These light-sensitive cells could lead to a new class of pacemakers and genetically matched replacement heart cells, potentially replacing traditional electrical pacemakers and addressing tissue rejection issues.
Deep brain stimulation (DBS) stimulates specific brain regions to produce new cells that enhance memory. In a mouse study, DBS led to a two-fold increase in new cells in the hippocampus, which improved spatial learning and memory.
The Boltzmann constant has been re-determined by PTB scientists using Dielectric-Constant Gas Thermometry, with an uncertainty of 8 ppm. This achievement demonstrates that DCGT is suitable for determining fundamental constants and brings the country closer to redefining the kelvin unit.
African-American men are up to 3.5 times more likely to have Vitamin D deficiency than Caucasian men, requiring higher supplementation doses. Skin color and sunlight exposure play a crucial role in Vitamin D production.
Geoscience professionals can expect high salaries in the finance and insurance industry, with average aggregated salaries ranging from $102,640 to $82,650. This analysis by the American Geological Institute highlights the varying salary ranges across different industries.
A study by USC, Stanford, and Kellogg School researchers found that individuals with power but low status are more likely to engage in demeaning activities. The study's results support the idea that a combination of power and lack of respect can be toxic, as seen in incidents like Abu Ghraib torture and the Stanford Prison Experiment.
A study in worms has yielded clues about how nerves grow by identifying the molecular mechanisms that prompt dendrite development. The QBI team discovered that a ligand and receptor work together to coax certain neurons to extend dendrites towards their targets.
A new study found that Dutch voters tend to think people who don't cast a ballot support their own party. This phenomenon allows voters and politicians to exaggerate the influence or size of their own party. The researchers suggest that this occurs due to social validation and a desire to promote one's party's success.
A University of Bristol study examined motivational indicators in public and private sector workers across 51 countries. It found that public sector workers tend to be more intrinsically motivated, but corruption levels can affect motivation.
Researchers at Oregon State University have discovered a way to produce 'skutterudites' using microwave technology, cutting production time from days to minutes and opening doors to efficient thermoelectric energy generation. This breakthrough has huge potential for applications in industries and devices that waste heat.
A new study suggests that beta-blocker drugs commonly used to treat high blood pressure may also slow the progression of certain serious cancers like melanoma. The review of thousands of medical records in Denmark found patients taking beta-blockers had lower mortality rates and improved survival times.
A study examining platelet function testing before PCI procedures found that patients with high residual platelet reactivity had a higher risk of ischemic events, including cardiac death and heart attack. The study suggested that tailored therapy using new antithrombotic agents may be necessary for these patients.
Researchers at Brigham and Women's Hospital are studying the role of tissue resident T cells in fighting viral, fungal, and bacterial infections, as well as certain cancers. The study aims to develop vaccines that generate long-lived populations of protective memory T cells.
A recent study published in JAMA found that discussing sexuality with doctors can improve quality of life for prostate cancer survivors. Researchers used phone interviews and questionnaires to measure quality of life in over 2,900 men before and after treatment, including surgery, radiation, or brachytherapy. The study revealed that me...
Researchers at the University of Washington have created a novel proton-based transistor that can communicate directly with living organisms. The device uses protons instead of electrons and has potential applications in biological sensing, prosthetics, and even controlling certain biological processes.
Researchers will analyze social and economic impacts of atmospheric blocking events from the 20th century. They aim to develop new methods for spotting and predicting this rare weather phenomenon, which can trigger extreme conditions such as heat waves and flooding.
A new study published in JAMA Network found that adding cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to medication treatment significantly improved symptoms of pediatric obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). The 12-week randomized controlled trial involved 124 outpatients between the ages of 7 and 17 years. The results showed that participants wh...
Researchers at Arizona State University are developing strategies to diagnose and prevent two of the most pervasive food-borne microbes, focusing on extraintestinal pathogenic E. coli (ExPEC) and noroviruses. The new initiatives aim to improve food safety and reduce human illnesses, particularly among vulnerable populations.