Research identified genetic changes that enable Ethiopians to thrive in thin air, differing from those found in Tibetan populations. This discovery sheds light on how high-altitude populations worldwide have evolved differently from their low-altitude ancestors.
A study from the University of Copenhagen found that a drought in the Horn of Africa led to a delayed arrival of European songbirds in northern Europe, causing them to stay longer in Africa. This delay resulted in a late breeding year, but researchers believe it may not have affected population size.
Researchers at Scripps Research Institute discover TMHS protein, a key component of mechanotransduction channels in the ear. The finding suggests a promising new approach to gene therapy for certain types of deafness, as it restores sound perception in newborn deaf mice.
A study found that age drives molecular changes in genes, but diet can modulate these effects. Selenium and vitamin D reduced accumulation of epigenetic changes, while high blood folate and obesity increased them.
A new study suggests that the same caregiving skills used in romantic relationships can also lead to better parenting. Researchers found a common skill set underpins caregiving across different types of relationships for both mothers and fathers.
A new study from Michigan State University found that middle school students in better physical shape scored higher on standardized tests and received better grades. The research linked health-related fitness to academic performance, including body fat, muscular strength, flexibility, and endurance.
Researchers have shed new light on the sudden appearance of flowering plants, revealing a 45 million-year evolutionary history. Angiosperms colonized aquatic environments over three phases, with co-evolution with insects playing a vital role in their spread.
Researchers developed a new nanotech tool to probe solar-energy conversion, revealing exquisite chemical details with a resolution thought impossible. The tool combines scan/probe microscopy and optical spectroscopy, enabling scientists to examine nanoscale chemistry and interactions with light.
Researchers have discovered that the majority of demethylation occurred earlier than previously thought, revealing key insights into methyl group removal. The study identifies regions of DNA that avoid demethylation, potentially explaining how environmental information can be transferred from parent to offspring.
A new study reveals that viruses can be spread through cross-contamination from utensils like knives and graters, posing a significant health risk. The study found that contaminated utensils can transfer viruses to multiple pieces of produce, highlighting the need for emphasis on utensil hygiene.
A pooled analysis of eight cohort studies found that women with higher circulating carotenoid levels had statistically significantly lower breast cancer risk. The inverse association was strongest for estrogen receptor-negative (ER-) breast cancers, highlighting carotenoids as a potential modifiable risk factor.
The world's largest living organisms are facing an alarming decline in death rates among trees 100-300 years old. The study highlights the critical role of large old trees in regulating ecosystems, storing carbon, and supporting biodiversity. Researchers call for urgent action to identify causes and develop strategies for conservation.
A study cataloging genetic variants in healthy individuals reveals approximately 400 damaging DNA variants and a 1-in-10 risk of developing a genetic disease. The research highlights the complexity of genetic predispositions and raises ethical concerns about incidental findings.
Scientists at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute have isolated a previously unknown protein in muscles that spurs their growth and increased power following resistance exercise. The protein, PGC-1 alpha-4, controls the activity of two molecular pathways involved in muscle growth.
A new antidepressant drug called GLYX-13 has shown significant reductions in depression symptoms within hours, with positive effects lasting an average of seven days from a single dose. The novel therapeutic targets brain receptors responsible for learning and memory.
Marshall Johnson, a renowned UC Riverside entomologist, has received the Distinguished Scientist of the Year Award from the International Organization for Biological Control – Nearctic Regional Section. He has made significant contributions to the field of biological control through his research and extension work, developing and imple...
A recent UC Davis study reveals that general thoracic surgeons perform the majority of complex noncardiac thoracic surgeries, including esophageal and lung procedures. The research supports the recognition of general thoracic surgery as a distinct specialty, benefiting patients in selecting surgeons for specific procedures.
The study reveals that baby boomers with hepatitis C are at risk of developing liver cancer, leading to a significant increase in liver transplant demand. As this population ages, the number of liver transplants for HCV-related liver disease is expected to rise.
A recent study published in Tellus A found that none of the 23 climate models evaluated can reliably predict weather patterns for seasonal to decadal time scales. The researchers suggest that improvements in model quality require a better understanding of atmospheric processes and more comprehensive data records, particularly from the ...
Researchers identify β-hydroxybutyrate as a key compound in protecting cells from oxidative stress, potentially slowing aging and age-related diseases. The discovery reveals a new avenue for treating or preventing conditions like Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's, autism, and traumatic brain injury.
Research by University of Cambridge scientists has identified a new mechanism used by Salmonella to spread in the body, which could lead to improved treatments and vaccinations. The study found that bacteria must escape from infected cells to disseminate, but this process is hindered when an active Phox system is present.
Researchers at the University of Massachusetts Amherst have deciphered key steps in the mechanism of Hsp70 molecular machines, which facilitate protein folding. The study provides insights into how chaperones work and their role in rapidly dividing cells, including cancer cells, highlighting potential therapeutic targets.
Researchers from NC State University have developed a safety testing system called TiPED to help chemists design inherently safer chemicals. The system aims to identify potential endocrine disruptors before they are used in commercial products, benefiting consumers and reducing exposure to harmful chemicals.
Researchers aim to build cognitive reserve in MS patients by engaging in intellectually stimulating activities, such as reading and puzzle-solving, using iPads. The one-year pilot project will examine improvements in cognitive performance and correlations with changes in neural networks.
Dendritic spines play a vital role in isolating and amplifying electrical signals received at synapses, enabling neurons to communicate with each other. The discovery sheds light on the brain's complex processing mechanisms and may lead to advances in treating diseases like Alzheimer's and Huntington's.
A new study by Aalto University found that sustainable business innovations significantly increase a company's market value. Regular announcements of sustainability innovations result in an 0.82% increase in market capitalization.
A University of Rhode Island graduate student is using ocean waves to study the geologic structure beneath the Earth's surface. By analyzing seismic wave velocity near an underwater plateau, scientists can infer its formation process.
The NASA-NOAA Suomi NPP satellite has released a global composite image that shows the glow of natural and human-made sources across the planet. The high-resolution images reveal valuable data for researchers studying weather conditions, such as fog and low clouds, that are difficult to detect with traditional sensors.
Researchers found that 87% of large (8.6 magnitude or higher) earthquakes are associated with intersection regions between oceanic fracture zones and subduction zones. This connection is less striking for smaller earthquakes, which are more common.
A new DNA hydrogel created by Cornell researchers exhibits unique properties, flowing like a liquid but returning to its original shape when placed in water. The material has potential applications in drug delivery and tissue rebuilding, with the ability to be formed into desired shapes.
The American Chemical Society has developed a comprehensive climate science toolkit, providing explanations of key concepts such as the greenhouse effect and climate change education for the public. The toolkit aims to foster a basic understanding of climate science among scientists and others, enabling informed personal decisions.
Research suggests that people with high BMI may benefit from different antihypertensive treatment regimens than those with normal weight. The study found that a combination of benazepril and amlodipine was equally effective across all weight categories, while diuretic-based regimens were more effective in obese individuals.
African American women with early-stage invasive breast cancer were 12% less likely to receive the minimally invasive axillary sentinel lymph node biopsy compared to Caucasian women. The study found higher rates of lymphedema among African American women who underwent the older, more invasive procedure.
A University of Akron researcher has designed a novel system for future wellness programs that utilizes real-time data and personalized incentives. The system aims to provide cost-effective solutions by optimizing program effectiveness and reducing costs for organizations.
Researchers found cycling is safer than driving for young males aged 17-20, with almost five times greater risk for drivers compared to cyclists of the same age. Cycling offers significant health benefits, saving £17bn in healthcare costs alone through active travel.
The study, led by Peter Jones, identified specific genes that must be turned off for cancer cells to survive. The findings provide a new target for cancer treatments and may lead to more effective medicine.
Biologists have discovered how a transcriptional repressor makes its way into the nucleus of plant cells to control jasmonate signaling, which is crucial for maintaining balance between growth and defense. This finding could lead to more efficient crop yields with less harm to the environment.
Scientists use satellite data to map plant stress, providing early warning signs of drought. The maps can aid in drought forecasts and help farmers make practical decisions sooner.
Researchers have found that bilirubin can limit arterial lesions by blocking vascular smooth muscle cell growth, potentially preventing heart attacks and other cardiovascular symptoms.
Research suggests that smoking is linked to an increased risk of hangovers, with college students who smoked more heavily experiencing more severe symptoms. The study's findings imply a direct effect of tobacco smoking on hangovers, possibly due to the release of dopamine and nicotine receptors in the brain.
Scientists at Johns Hopkins Medicine used a synthetic molecule to stimulate cell movement, bypassing the cells' usual sensing mechanism. This breakthrough provides powerful tools for studying cell movement and its role in cancer progression and immunity.
Scientists have developed a transgenic zebrafish model, MitoFish, that enables non-invasive observation of mitochondria transport in living neurons, providing a new window into neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's. This breakthrough model has the potential to accelerate the search for effective treatments.
Researchers will use Drosophila melanogaster to define how the brain organizes different types of memories among its neurons and understand Pavlovian conditioning.
A study by Dr. George M Yousef at St. Michael's Hospital identified 29 proteins associated with kidney tumor metastasis. These biomarkers can help physicians recognize which tumors are more likely to spread, enabling targeted treatment and improved patient outcomes.
Researchers found that continuing tamoxifen treatment beyond 5 years further reduced breast cancer recurrence and mortality rates. The additional benefits took some years to emerge, with risks of recurrence decreasing from 21.4% at year 15 in those who continued treatment compared to 25.1% in controls.
A group of parasites hijack their victims' nervous systems, reducing them to helpless zombies. These manipulators can have a significant impact on ecology, physiology, and evolution, orchestrating the behaviour of vertebrates and invertebrates.
A recent study discovered that small patches of native plants within fruit orchards can enhance pollinator services, increasing mango production. The presence of these patches has been shown to increase the number of visits from honeybees and wild pollinators, leading to improved crop yields.
Researchers at the University of Sheffield have developed a new method for delivering stem cell therapy to treat corneal blindness. The technique uses biodegradable discs loaded with stem cells that can multiply and repair damaged eyes naturally. This approach has the potential to be more accessible and safer than current treatments.
A large study found that childless couples have a mortality rate 2-4 times higher than those who adopt. Mental illness rates are halved among adoptive parents compared to the general population.
Researchers found that students attending national research institutions increase their use of standard pronunciation, while those attending community colleges show little change. College choice plays a significant role in shaping linguistic variations among adolescents.
Researchers found that communications training and a standardized surgical checklist can significantly reduce postoperative complications, including infections and blood clots. The study suggests that these simple cost-effective methods can help teams agree on priorities and ensure accountability, leading to better patient outcomes.
A new study found that AA participation has different benefits for men and women in terms of maintaining sobriety. For women, increased confidence in avoiding drinking during sad or depressed times was crucial, while for men, avoiding companions who encourage drinking was more important.
A new genetic test using microarray analysis has been shown to detect clinically relevant information more effectively than the current standard method of prenatal testing. Microarray also identified additional abnormalities not detected by karyotyping in cases with advanced maternal age or positive screening results.
Researchers have created a new type of transistor called the '4-D' transistor, made from indium-gallium-arsenide material. The three nanowires in the device allow for faster and more efficient operation, enabling the development of lighter laptops with reduced heat generation.
Researchers have identified 35 hearts without significant coronary artery disease that are eligible for transplantation using pharmacological stress echo. The study found successful transplantation in emergency recipients with minimal complications, paving the way for an upward shift in donor age cut-off limit from 55 to 65 years.
Researchers found that prehistoric artwork showed a significantly lower rate of incorrect leg positioning compared to modern art, highlighting the accuracy of cavemen's animal depictions.
The Genographic Project has launched a new phase, utilizing advanced genetic technology to explore human migration patterns. Participants can learn about their migratory history, regional affiliations, and even Neanderthal or Denisovan ancestry.
Research shows that obstructive sleep apnea causes early cardiovascular damage similar to diabetes, highlighting the importance of seeking medical attention. Patients with moderate to severe OSA have endothelial dysfunction and higher arterial stiffness, which can lead to heart failure.
Researchers at the University of Chicago are developing 'designer atoms' through nanocrystal assembly, offering new opportunities for solar energy, quantum computing, and functional materials. By controlling electron correlation, they aim to create strongly correlated systems with unique properties.
Researchers at OHSU School of Dentistry discovered a direct role of BDNF in regulating blood pressure, which may help prevent or treat high blood pressure. The study found that BDNF levels increase dramatically in nerve cells during hypertension.