Researchers at UCSF found that mice lacking a specific enzyme are less responsive to nicotine and alcohol, suggesting a promising target for a dual treatment approach. The discovery could lead to medications that reduce reward craving in people struggling with addiction.
Researchers at Michigan State University found that organisms quickly evolve ways to compensate for genetic and genomic disruptions in sex determination. The study used an experimental evolution approach to study adaptations in nematodes and showed that the mechanisms themselves are flexible and adaptable from an evolutionary viewpoint.
The University of Houston is testing Metro's hybrid and regular buses for fuel efficiency, measuring emissions under controlled conditions. Researchers will track fuel economy and emissions using the university's chassis dynamometer test cell.
A team of evolutionary biologists found that when mothers control offspring sex ratios, sexual selection collapses, and males lose their elaborate courtship displays to attract females. This twist adds unexpected complexity to Darwin's theory of sexual selection, suggesting that motherly control can override the need for showy males.
The University of Miami's Stable Isotope Laboratory has acquired new equipment for analyzing stable isotopes using the 'clumped isotope' technique. This method measures temperature with high accuracy, allowing researchers to study past climates and geological processes.
A retrospective study of 17,872 patients found no association between statin use and increased risk of intracerebral hemorrhage after ischemic stroke. The study's results contradict previous findings and suggest that current treatment guidelines recommending statin therapy for most patients with a history of ischemic stroke may be safe.
A new study reveals that stimulation of female genital regions activates distinct sites in the sensory cortex, contradicting claims of clitoral superiority. Researchers mapped responses to clitoral, vaginal, cervical, and nipple self-stimulation using fMRI, demonstrating significant activation in specific brain areas.
A transgenic mouse model exhibiting behavioral parallels with humans diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder has improved scientific understanding and may lead to diagnostic tests based on biomarkers. The research could also help design targeted interventions and treatments.
The center aims to accelerate the translation of basic-level discoveries into commercial markets, with a focus on developing sustainable materials chemistry. Researchers will leverage environmentally friendly approaches to synthesize and fabricate compounds, thin films, and composite materials for various applications.
A study published in Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology found that low-dose aspirin increases the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding, particularly when combined with other medications. However, proton pump inhibitor use can reduce this risk.
A study found that flu vaccination rates among nursing home healthcare workers significantly reduced flu outbreaks, with a 87% decrease when 51-75% of staff were vaccinated. Higher resident vaccination rates surprisingly correlated with increased outbreak risk, highlighting the importance of vaccinating healthcare personnel.
Researchers found that nearly 700,000 people in the US experience ischemic strokes each year, with about 160,000 being recurrent. Despite high compliance rates, medication non-compliance is a major risk factor for stroke and heart disease.
A University of Toronto-led team has observed extreme brightness changes on a nearby brown dwarf, suggesting the presence of a gigantic storm. The researchers used an infrared camera to capture repeated images of the brown dwarf over several hours, revealing the largest variations in brightness ever seen.
Researchers evaluate the usability of mobile voting systems on smartphones, finding that participants with smartphone experience complete tasks more accurately. The study suggests designing mobile voting systems to accommodate inexperienced voters' mental models to increase usability and accuracy.
A study published in Scientometrics suggests that pressure to report only positive results is driving a decline in scientific research globally. The analysis of over 4,600 papers found that the proportion of studies with contradictory findings decreased from 1990 to 2007.
Researchers found that social networks and confidence in maintaining sobriety in social situations are key factors in successful recovery through AA. The study analyzed data from over 1,700 participants and showed that increased participation in AA during the first three months led to more successful recovery over the following year.
Nine LCC science projects have received $1.2 million in WaterSMART funding to support research on climate change impacts, water efficiency, and ecosystem health. These projects will inform federal, state, and local managers in Arizona, California, Colorado, Nevada, New Mexico, Texas, Utah, Wyoming, and Northern Mexico.
A team of researchers has proposed a method to harness parabolic mirrors to drive solar-powered lasers, achieving an impressive 35% conversion rate. The new solar lasers would concentrate light with a small parabolic mirror, strike a ceramic disk, and emit laser light of a specific wavelength.
Researchers found respiratory alkalosis in children with febrile seizures and metabolic acidosis in pediatric patients admitted for gastroenteritis. The study suggests that applying 5% carbon dioxide to breathing air could be a possible treatment for febrile seizures.
A three-year study will investigate the psychological factors associated with suicide among LGBT youth, including thwarted belongingness and perceived burdensomeness. The research aims to identify risk factors and develop preventive messaging and interventions to reduce suicidal behaviors.
A study by David Smith and colleagues found that women's memory is sensitive to male voice pitch, a cue important for mate choice. Women preferred low pitch male voices and remembered objects more accurately when introduced by deep male voices.
Researchers at Duke University Medical Center have found a genetic variant associated with lower five-year survival rates after coronary artery bypass graft. The thrombomodulin (THBD) gene was independently linked to increased long-term mortality risk following CABG procedure.
Researchers found that the risk of death from CO2 poisoning is about one in 100 million. The study also suggests that engineered gas storage underground could be even safer due to planning and monitoring.
Researchers have found that Fasudil, a vasodilator used to treat cardiovascular problems, can slow the growth of leukemia cells by blocking the activity of Rho kinase. The study showed promising results in laboratory tests and extended survival in mice with leukemia.
SAFEPED is a computer simulation that integrates robotics and statistics on driver and pedestrian behavior to determine the environmental features leading to dangerous intersections. The model allows traffic planners to analyze and fix black spots, test and redesign junctions for optimal safety.
Researchers have developed a novel antireflective coating using randomly oriented silicon nanowires, capturing a broad spectrum of light waves and increasing solar cell efficiency. The process is relatively inexpensive and could be scaled up for large manufacturing operations.
Researchers Beverly Strassmann and Wendy Garrard found that children in nuclear families were over four times more likely to die by age 5 if their mothers were dead. In contrast, paternal grandparents did not improve a child's survival due to competing for scarce resources in patrilineal societies.
A new report by the United Nations Foundation details a self-sustaining approach to improving women and children's health, using innovative tools and projects. The report aims to engage entrepreneurs and entrepreneurs-in-the-making in all sectors to make a substantial contribution.
Researchers from the University of Notre Dame have developed a graphene-based modulator that significantly expands the terahertz signal's modulation range to over 90 percent. This breakthrough replaces traditional metal gates with graphene, enabling more versatile applications in communications, medical imaging, and chemical detection.
Researchers developed semiconductor materials that detect gamma rays, identifying plutonium and uranium. The method uses dimensional reduction to create heavy elements with immobilized electrons, making them suitable for detection.
A new study by Johns Hopkins researchers found that helicopters servicing the Gulf of Mexico experience an average of 5 deaths per year due to mechanical failures and bad weather. Pilot error was a major contributor to 83 crashes, highlighting concerns about safety in oil and gas operations.
Researchers identified FOBISIN, a compound that targets 14-3-3 proteins, which are dysregulated in multiple cancers. X-ray analysis showed FOBISIN permanently bonds to the protein when exposed to radiation, triggering potent anticancer activity
A study of 24 patients found that repeated exposure to fluoroquinolone and azithromycin antibiotics increased resistance to multiple drugs, including older- and newer-generation antibiotics. This raises concerns about the judicious use of ophthalmic antibiotics to prevent antimicrobial resistance.
A new study of over 200,000 Medicare beneficiaries found that cardiac device infections result in extremely high costs and patient mortality rates, even after hospital discharge. The study highlights the need for infection prevention as a key component of reducing mortality and morbidity.
A study published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal found that people living in poorer neighborhoods are at a higher risk of sudden cardiac arrest. The disparity was particularly pronounced among individuals under 65 years old, with those in lower socioeconomic groups experiencing rates two- to fourfold higher than those in h...
Researchers have successfully delivered chemotherapy to cancer cells inside tiny microparticles, reducing ovarian cancer tumours by 65 times more than traditional methods. The 'Trojan Horse' approach uses a special protein called CD95 to hijack cancer cells and deliver the chemotherapy cargo.
According to a Canadian Medical Association Journal study, approximately 19% of Canadians have metabolic syndrome. The syndrome is more common among people with lower income and education levels, particularly those with abdominal obesity.
Researchers at Vanderbilt University School of Medicine found that BVES regulates EMT in human colon cancer cells and is silenced via promoter methylation in human colorectal carcinoma. Restoring BVES expression decreased cancer cell characteristics.
Researchers suggest using linear compensation to design emissions reduction strategies that benefit all nations, with punishments adjusted relative to other countries' performance. This mechanism leverages national abatement efforts to incentivize cooperation.
Researchers at Kansas State University are working with NASA to develop a method for measuring astronauts' physical abilities, which will help ensure their safety in space. By using an obstacle course that simulates various lunar tasks, the team has found that treadmill tests can predict an astronaut's performance with high accuracy.
The C-CHANGE guidelines integrate over 400 recommendations into one comprehensive resource, distilling practice and evidence down to 89 simplified recommendations. This harmonization aims to improve health outcomes by promoting a more evidence-based approach to cardiovascular care.
A recent study published in the Journal of the American College of Surgeons found that part-time employment models for surgeons can promote retention and address the looming shortages in surgical specialties. By working fewer hours, surgeons may practice more years, alleviating the predicted surgeon shortage by up to 42.5%.
A study published in the American Journal of Health Promotion found that consistently practicing Transcendental Meditation resulted in a significant decrease in physician fees for high-cost individuals, with a cumulative reduction of 28% after five years. This technique has major policy implications and could help reduce healthcare costs.
A special digital issue featuring 150-page four-volume reports from first-person accounts of responders who were thrust into the world spotlight on September 11, 2001. The report highlights the devastating effects of 9/11 on responders' lives and relationships, as well as their reluctance to seek counseling.
A team of researchers has discovered a thermodynamically stable RNA nanoparticle that can serve as a platform for building larger, multifunctional nanoparticles. This breakthrough could lead to new therapeutic applications in treating cancers and viral infections.
Researchers at Ruhr-University Bochum demonstrated spin pumping effect in magnetic layers using ultrafast X-ray scattering. This behavior is crucial for magnetic sensors in hard disk read heads and data storage.
A recent study by Université Laval researchers found that the risk of insomnia is significantly higher in people from families where at least one member is an insomniac. The study involved 3,485 participants and showed a 67% increase in insomnia risk for family members with one or more relatives suffering from insomnia.
A study found that CIED infections are associated with increased mortality, hospital length of stay, and costs. The risk varies depending on the type of device, with pacemakers having a greater impact than other devices.
A study on Alexander Litvinenko's care reveals that hospital staff involved in routine daily activities, such as handling patient blood and urine samples, were at higher risk of radiation contamination. The findings suggest that more attention should be given to infection control practices during these daily activities.
Hebrew University researchers have identified a key signal that prompts production of insulin-producing beta cells, which may help restore or increase beta cell function in people with type 1 diabetes. The study found that glucose levels trigger the regeneration of beta cells through a specific enzyme, glucokinase.
Researchers have identified protein signatures in mouse blood samples that reflect lung cancer biology in humans, paving the way for better monitoring of tumor progression and potential early detection strategies. The study's findings also suggest that these signatures may be useful in detecting lung cancer at an earlier stage.
A study aims to utilize Galectin-3 and HBME-1 proteins as biomarkers for thyroid cancer diagnosis, enabling earlier detection and reducing surgical interventions. The research has the potential to improve patient outcomes by accurately identifying patients at risk of cancer.
A team of researchers led by Professor Rikard Blunck has discovered the molecular mechanism behind toxin proteins engineered into food to kill insects. The study uses a novel technique involving fluorescent light to analyze the protein's structure and behavior in artificial cell membranes.
A meta-analysis of six randomized controlled trials found that treating cardiovascular risk factors improves sexual function in men with erectile dysfunction, even when lifestyle interventions alone were used. The study suggests that addressing CV risk factors can have a positive impact on ED and overall quality of life.
The tip sheet highlights common barriers to depression disclosure among patients, including concerns about antidepressant prescriptions and confidentiality. It also explores the widespread use of NSAIDs by patients with chronic kidney disease, despite warnings against their use. Additionally, the article critiques long-established coro...
A new method for modifying mycotoxins in contaminated grains has been developed using transgenic yeast. The research, published in Biotechnology for Biofuels, shows that the yeast can convert toxic trichothecene mycotoxins to less toxic forms during fermentation.
Researchers at Brigham and Women's Hospital have identified a new combination of targeted therapies that successfully treat two aggressive tumor types: neurofibromatosis type 1 and KRAS-mutant lung cancer. The treatment promotes dramatic tumor regression by targeting cancer cells from two different angles.
A Montreal-led international team identified the mutated gene POLR3A as responsible for three forms of leukodystrophies, a group of childhood-onset neurodegenerative disorders. The findings provide crucial insights into diagnostic tests and genetic counseling, as well as potential therapeutic strategies to replace defective genes.
An international research team has shown that an investigational agent that sticks onto the surface of tumor cells can effectively image tumors. The 'antagonist', 111In-DOTA-BASS, outperformed the widely used 'agonist' agent, OctreoScan, in detecting neuroendocrine tumors.
A randomized controlled trial found that intranasal insulin therapy improved delayed story recall and preserved general cognition in adults with mild cognitive impairment or Alzheimer's disease. The treatment also stabilized cerebral glucose metabolism and functional abilities in older adults.
Researchers have discovered blood proteins associated with early lung cancer development in mice and humans, offering a promising avenue for a non-invasive blood test. The study found distinct protein signatures in mouse models and human patients, which could aid in diagnosis and monitoring of the disease.
A study found that long-term use of nonaspirin anti-inflammatory drugs is associated with an increased risk of renal cell cancer. The study analyzed data from two large prospective cohort studies and found a 51% increase in the relative risk of RCC among those who regularly used nonaspirin NSAIDs for more than four years.
Researchers at University Medical Center Utrecht discovered that fish oil supplements containing omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids can induce resistance to a broad spectrum of chemotherapies. The study found that the body's own protective substances, which are also present in fish oil, can block the effect of chemotherapy.
Researchers aim to create bacteria that form geometrical patterns to understand stem cell behavior. By modifying E. coli with genetic circuits, they hope to unlock the genetic programming behind complex cellular structures.
Scientists at Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics in Berlin have decoded a human genome into its molecular haplotypes, revealing the two chromosome sets differ from each other. The comprehensive analysis identified 159 mutated genes with disease-predisposing potential.
A recent study has found a significant link between high cholesterol levels and the presence of brain plaques associated with Alzheimer's disease. Researchers tested 2,587 people aged 40-79 and found that those with high cholesterol had significantly more brain plaques than those with normal or lower cholesterol levels.
A new analysis found that women who inherit BRCA gene mutations develop breast and ovarian cancers at significantly younger ages than their female relatives in the previous generation. The study suggests that early age of diagnosis is crucial for providing effective counseling, screening, and treatment services.
Researchers create detection tool that spots flight glitches without prior knowledge of parameters to check. The technique uses cluster analysis to identify abnormal flights, allowing analysts to further inspect reports and prevent potential accidents.
The American Dental Association recommends using sugar-free polyol gum, lozenges, and hard candy to prevent cavities in patients at high risk. Nonfluoride varnishes with chlorhexidine and thymol can also be effective when used as adjuncts to fluoride-containing products.
Researchers developed a gene therapy that targets breast cancer stem cells, eliminating them and increasing chemotherapy effectiveness. The therapy, VISA-claudin4-BikDD, was shown to reduce tumor volume by 75% and extend survival in mice.
Researchers at the University of Copenhagen have achieved a world record in nano research by tracking the largest contraction in an inorganic molecule ever recorded. The study used time-dissolved X-ray scattering to measure the contraction of Iridium atoms, resulting in a 62% increase over the previous record.
A magnitude-7.3 earthquake in 2009 devastated the Belizean Barrier Reef, causing widespread destruction and killing off dominant coral species. The reef's recovery is unlikely due to previous losses and the need for improved management of reef resources, including consideration of extreme events.
Rensselaer's new Blue Gene/Q supercomputer will boost the university's leadership in high-performance computing and enable research in data science, computational modeling, and more. The system, funded by a $2.65M NSF grant, provides balanced computational power, fast data access, and visualization capabilities.
Researchers have identified the protein BVES as a suppressor of colorectal cancer progression and suggest it could be a therapeutic or preventative target. Modulating BVES expression was found to decrease cancer cell characteristics in human colon cancer cells, providing rational for targeting BVES in individuals with colorectal cancer.
The Navy is launching its new joint tactical satellite, TacSat-4, which will bring on-the-go communications to the battlefield. The fourth-generation microsatellite enables warfighters to use handheld radios for mobile communications without downtime.
The UCSB Materials Research Laboratory has received a renewed $20 million grant from the National Science Foundation to conduct distinctive research and education programs. The grant will advance materials science research in areas such as energy-efficient microelectronics, adhesives, and coatings inspired by marine organisms.
Researchers found that mice without the HDAC3 enzyme experience rapid thickening of the heart muscle and heart failure on a high-fat diet. This molecular link has implications for people on Western diets and combating heart disease.
Researchers found that quitting smoking is associated with a decrease in impulsivity and neuroticism in young adults. Those who quit smoking also showed the biggest declines in these traits from ages 18 to 25. The study suggests targeting anti-smoking efforts at impulsivity may help young people stop smoking.
Researchers at UC Berkeley have demonstrated negative capacitance in ferroelectric materials, a phenomenon that can amplify charge for a given voltage. This breakthrough has the potential to revolutionize computing by enabling the creation of low-power transistors without compromising performance.
The ComPASS project aims to improve educational capacity for preparing students to contribute to a computationally driven economic future. UCSD and SDSU will offer 'computer science principles' classes at high school, undergraduate, and teacher training levels.
Researchers found that the circadian cycle, regulating day-night rhythms, drives gene expression in mussels more than previously thought. The tidal cycle's influence was less significant, with 80-90% of genes showing rhythmic expression linked to the circadian cycle.
Neuroscientists at UC Berkeley have discovered a new approach to treating tinnitus by retraining the brain, targeting areas that have lost input from the ear. The study also found that drugs can boost inhibitors to reduce spontaneous firing of idle neurons in the auditory cortex.
Researchers used MRI and PET/CT to prove the efficacy of dalcetrapib in preventing atherosclerosis progression and reducing vascular inflammation over 24 months. The study found significant reductions in atherosclerotic disease progression and arterial inflammation, suggesting a promising new treatment for cardiovascular disease.
The research aims to determine the impacts of various emission sources on fine particle concentrations in Santiago de Chile. The study reveals that transport is the biggest source of fine particles in the city.
The MUTE project presents a purely electric, energy-efficient vehicle with low weight and advanced technology. Researchers from TU Muenchen created an agile two-seater with a range of at least 100 kilometers, featuring a torque vectoring differential for improved safety and dynamics.
Research finds psoriasis patients are 26% more likely to die from cardiovascular disease and 18% more likely to die from all causes after a heart attack. The study emphasizes the need for a more aggressive approach to secondary prevention of cardiovascular disease in psoriasis patients.
A University of Virginia study found that watching fast-paced TV shows like SpongeBob SquarePants can severely compromise a child's executive function, leading to difficulties in problem-solving, self-control, and behavioral moderation. In contrast, slower-paced shows like Caillou had little impact on test scores.
A pilot study using human saliva found that curcumin inhibited a critical cell signaling pathway and reduced pro-inflammatory cytokines in patients with head and neck cancers. The study suggests curcumin could be combined with other treatments to treat head and neck cancer, and may be given to high-risk patients as an adjuvant treatment.
Wayne State University researcher Jeffrey Ram is using EPA grants to develop effective ballast water treatment systems and an early warning system for invasive species in the Great Lakes. The goal is to minimize the impact of existing invasive species and prevent new ones from entering the lakes.
A recent study investigates how individuals respond to unexpected and unsettling events, suggesting that different threat-reduction approaches can be adaptive in various situations. The researchers propose a new framework for understanding responses to such events, highlighting the importance of considering individual perspectives on t...
A new Northwestern University study confirms that human males are biologically wired to care for their offspring, showing that fatherhood significantly lowers testosterone levels. The study found that fathers who became more involved in child care experienced the largest decline in testosterone.
Blacks with prehypertension have a 35 percent greater risk of progressing to high blood pressure than whites. Lifestyle changes such as weight loss and physical activity can reduce the risk of developing high blood pressure for those with prehypertension.
Researchers discovered that a commercial enzyme can extract water from an ethanol byproduct, reducing electricity, natural gas, and energy consumption. This could significantly decrease the amount of greenhouse gases emitted during ethanol production.
The University of Houston is developing new oil dispersants as part of a major multi-institution project. The goal is to create biocompatible dispersants that are less toxic, allowing for reduced use and improved environmental impact.
Researchers studied the genetic basis of species formation in the Appalachian tiger swallowtail butterfly, a rare hybrid of Eastern and Canadian tiger swallowtails. The study reveals that hybrid speciation can create new combinations of life history and morphological traits, allowing colonization of novel environments.
A new metric called order gain measures the impact of Wi-Fi attacks on network disruption, helping design effective countermeasures. The research focuses on continuous attacks targeting networks with large numbers of users.
A new species of ancient predatory fish, Laccognathus embryi, has been discovered in North America during the Devonian Period. The 5-6 foot long fish had a wide head, small eyes, and robust jaws lined with large piercing teeth.
A US study found that many Americans believe only highly effective drugs without serious side effects are approved. Brief explanations to patients about drug benefits and harms uncertainties can help them make better choices. The FDA does not guarantee a large or important benefit from a drug or that all serious adverse effects are known.