Research identifies specific genetic mechanism underlying autism and fragile X syndrome, suggesting gene dosage disruption as key factor in autism development. The study found a strong overlap between autism candidate genes and those linked to fragile X syndrome, with implications for therapy and diagnosis.
A study published in PLoS ONE suggests that the number-line concept is not an innate human intuition but a culturally acquired tool. The research, conducted with indigenous Yupno adults in Papua New Guinea, found that precise number concepts can exist independently of linear spatial representations.
A recent study published in Nature concludes that crop yields from organic farming are generally lower than those from conventional agriculture. However, yields can be comparable under certain growing conditions and with best management practices.
A new study published in PLOS ONE reveals that over 6 million birds die every year at communication towers during migration, primarily due to getting caught in cables. Replacing steady-burning lights with blinking ones on approximately 4,500 towers could potentially reduce mortality by 45%.
Research suggests that health warnings on cigarette packs can deter relapse in ex-smokers. The study, which monitored responses from almost 2,000 recent ex-smokers, found that those who actively used the warnings were less likely to start smoking again.
Research predicts a modest decline in global smoking prevalence to 22% by 2030 without government intervention, but a significant drop to 13% if World Health Organization (WHO) measures are adopted. This could lead to millions of premature deaths prevented.
Research identifies enzyme essential for M. globosa's growth, making it a prime target for developing better anti-dandruff medicines. Sulfonamides show greater effectiveness than ketoconazole in preventing the fungus's growth.
A study by Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health found that one in three households in Baltimore misreports its smoke alarm coverage, with the majority of errors due to over-reporting. The researchers suggest that relying on self-reports is not an accurate way to measure home protection against residential fires.
Researchers found that stopping anti-clotting medication in patients with irregular heartbeats increases the risk of stroke within a month. The study analyzed data from over 14,000 patients and found that both warfarin and rivaroxaban carried similar stroke risks after temporary or permanent discontinuation.
Kessler Foundation researchers Mark Nash et al won the 2012 Apple Award for their article on extended-release niacin monotherapy for treating dyslipidemia risks in persons with chronic tetraplegia. The study, conducted across multiple SCI research centers, demonstrates the efficacy and safety of this treatment approach.
A study published in JNCI found a strong association between genetic variants rs1051730-rs16969968 and objective measures of tobacco exposure, indicating that lung cancer risk is largely mediated by level of tobacco exposure. The research used data from six independent studies to analyze self-reported cigarette consumption and plasma o...
A recent study by McMaster University researchers has found that floc, microscopic communities hosting large populations of bacteria, contain high levels of antibiotic resistance. The discovery highlights the widespread presence of antibiotic resistance in aquatic environments, with varying intensities based on human influence.
Scientists discover that pig stomach mucins have broad-spectrum anti-viral activity, trapping disease-causing microbes like influenza virus and HIV before they cause infection. The findings suggest that pig mucus could be added to various consumer products to protect against viral infections.
A new study found that receiving free school meals and feeling unhappy are associated with increased likelihood of substance use among UK children. Younger age groups were more likely to misuse substances, while smoking was linked to other substance use.
Researchers at Vienna University of Technology and other institutions discovered that coupling two micro-lasers can lead to a total shutdown of light emission, defying the expectation that more energy would increase brightness
A new study suggests that implementing the World Health Organization's smoking reduction policy worldwide could prevent millions of smoking-related deaths by 2030. The policy, known as MPOWER, aims to reduce tobacco use through measures such as price increases and public awareness campaigns.
A study by researchers from the University of Michigan and others found that brain scans of a small group of people can predict the actions of entire populations. The neural reactions of a few individuals can forecast the responses of many other people to ad campaigns promoting specific behaviors.
A new study published in The Annals of the American Academy of Political and Social Science found that neighborhood characteristics, such as disadvantage and residential stability, have a significant impact on violent crime rates. Immigrant populations were not linked to higher levels of lethal violence.
University of Pennsylvania chemists developed a theoretical method and computer algorithm to search for proteins that can crystallize into a target structure. They successfully created the first custom-designed protein crystal, paving the way for better understanding of proteins' makeup and designing new materials.
Researchers analyzed data from over 5,800 adults and found no link between baked, boiled, or mashed white potatoes and increased risk of obesity, type 2 diabetes, or systemic inflammation. Demographic factors like age, gender, and education were controlled for in the study.
Research at the Experimental Biology Conference presents promising findings on avocado's potential benefits for heart health, weight management and type 2 diabetes. The study supports a multi-year effort by the Hass Avocado Board to build a scientific foundation for avocados' nutritional benefits.
A case study highlights the need for ophthalmologists to be vigilant for signs of child abuse in patients with chronic or recurrent keratoconjunctivitis. The patient's symptoms improved but persisted despite treatment, leading to a diagnosis of child abuse.
A recent study published in the Journal of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery found that patients with atrial fibrillation who undergo cardiac surgery without treatment have a lower long-term survival rate compared to those with sinus rhythm. Successful surgical treatment of A-fib during cardiac surgery can improve patient outcomes an...
Researchers found that thinking in a foreign language reduces loss aversion and asymmetry in decision-making. People are more likely to take attractive bets when considering options in a non-native tongue, as it provides a distancing mechanism that moves them from intuitive to deliberate thinking.
Researchers found that vascular plant species have migrated an average of 2.7 meters upwards in European mountains over 7 years, posing a threat to unique endemic species. The study also reveals an increase in species diversity at low elevation sites in the Mediterranean region.
A long-term study reveals that nature tourism in China's Wolong Nature Reserve increases conservation efforts, but disproportionately benefits individuals with existing resources. The research suggests that poverty alleviation policies may need to be revised to address the unequal distribution of benefits.
Researchers developed a mathematical model that shows the low percentage of lefties is due to balance between cooperation and competition. The model accurately predicts the number of elite left-handed athletes in various sports, such as baseball, boxing, and hockey.
Researchers used video microscopy and mathematical modelling to challenge common assumptions about Salmonella infection. They found that macrophage infection rates are lower than previously thought, but infected cells can still be reinfected by other bacteria.
Researchers at Boston College and MIT have developed a novel nanotech design that enhances the thermoelectric performance of Silicon Germanium alloy semiconductors. The breakthrough boosts electrical conductivity while reducing thermal conductivity, resulting in improved figure of merit values up to 1.3 at 900°C.
Researchers at UCLA identified new genetic components controlling neural stem cell adhesion and proliferation, crucial for normal nervous system development. The study's findings could lead to a better understanding of birth defects and disorders like autism, as well as the formation of brain tumors.
A new study by Harvard Medical School researchers found that C-sections are a cost-effective means of improving health in the developing world. The study's median economic benefit of death and disability prevented outweighs the cost of procedures 6 to 1, with an average return on investment of $6 for every $1 invested.
A study by British and Japanese researchers shows that rogue DNA from the heart's own cells mistakenly activates the body's immune system, leading to inflammation and reducing the heart's ability to pump blood. This process can kick-start in heart failure, a debilitating condition affecting millions worldwide.
Researchers discovered wind pushes lightweight plastics below ocean surface, potentially vastly underestimating total plastic amounts. A new model can be used to collect more accurate data in the future.
The National Geographic Society has launched a new Air and Water Conservation Fund to support cutting-edge projects in China. Grants ranging from $20,000 to $50,000 will be awarded to on-the-ground projects exploring innovative approaches to conserving China's water and air resources.
A recent study published in The Journal of Sexual Medicine has confirmed the anatomic existence of the G-spot, a previously elusive structure. The G-spot was found to be a well-delineated sac structure located on the dorsal perineal membrane, measuring 8.1mm x 3.6mm x 0.4mm in dimensions.
Researchers have announced GenomeSpace, a software environment that brings together a wide range of genomic analysis tools and data sources. The platform enables seamless transitions between tools, allowing biologists to carry out projects from start to finish without manual conversions or programming skills.
Researchers developed a non-invasive monitoring technique to assess changes in brain arteries, detecting brain damage in 61 children undergoing heart repair surgery. The 'hemoglobin volume index' allowed for real-time detection of brain injury and potential adjustments to blood pressure management.
A systematic review of 13 studies found that electronic reminders, including text messages, boosted patients' ability to stick to their drug dosing schedules, with significant differences reported in eight studies. However, the effectiveness of these reminders may decrease over time due to habituation.
Researchers discovered that strong light can activate a protein called Period 2, which regulates heart metabolism and minimizes damage from heart attacks. This finding suggests that daylight exposure could reduce the risk of having a heart attack or suffering damage from one.
Researchers found that changing subject matter of questions increases accuracy on longer tests, outperforming groups with random or sequential question patterns. The study suggests a new approach to minimize 'output interference' and improve standardized testing outcomes.
Researchers found that traditional 'quasiparticle' theory breaks down at 'quantum critical point', where electrons behave strangely. The study used heavy-fermion metals to show a breakdown in fundamental concepts of Landau-Fermi liquid theory.
A new human embryonic stem cell line has been developed to aid research on Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease, a common inherited neurological disorder. The line, derived from a donated embryo carrying the gene defect responsible for CMT, is now available for federally-funded research.
Researchers at Brigham and Women's Hospital have identified pathways of naturally occurring molecules in the human body that can boost the effectiveness of antibiotics. The study found that certain molecules called resolvins and protectins were key in resolving infections and reducing tissue damage.
Researchers from IMIM and UPF identified 115 proteins in silico that could be highly relevant to treat colon-rectal cancer, enabling the design of new generation anti-cancer drugs. The study uses a computational method to predict proteins that interact with molecules showing differential cytotoxicity.
Mount Sinai researchers identify top 10 toxic chemicals suspected to contribute to autism and learning disabilities, including lead, methylmercury, and PCBs. The list aims to guide research into preventable environmental causes of these conditions.
A Syracuse University study reveals that invasive plant leaves continue to function in the fall, producing food through photosynthesis, while native plants shut down earlier. This finding challenges conventional wisdom on forest ecosystems and suggests a strategy for invasive species' success.
Researchers examine interaction between Ibudilast, a phosphodiesterase inhibitor, and MA, an addictive stimulant, in the first Phase I clinical safety trial. The study aims to determine the effects of Ibudilast on heart rate and blood pressure when combined with relevant doses of MA.
Researchers have discovered that a customized mouthpiece can decrease cortisol levels following exercise, indicating less stress and potentially leading to faster recovery times. The study suggests that this simple device may enhance exercise performance without the use of drugs or supplements.
Lean finely textured beef, also known as pink slime, has fallen out of favor due to concerns over its production process. The industry's lack of transparency about the process, which involves heating and treating leftover meat with ammonia, contributed to public backlash.
Male praying mantises alter approach rate and courtship behavior based on recent mate encounters. High-risk behavior results in higher rates of sexual cannibalism when paired with hungry females.
A new study published in PLoS ONE found that anxious mice developed more severe cancer than calm counterparts, with accelerated tumor growth and invasive cancer. The researchers discovered that anxiety is linked to increased levels of immune-suppressing cells and a dampened immune system.
Experts propose a new model of care collaboration for diagnosing, treating, and following patients with emergent cardiovascular conditions. Regionalized systems of care can improve clinical outcomes by providing rapid diagnosis, effective care coordination, and appropriate follow-up care.
Researchers found that dogs can be manipulated to make counterproductive choices based on human behavior, highlighting their social bias and sensitivity to cues. The study suggests that humans can influence canine decisions by using specific behaviors.
Researchers have employed powerful X-rays to determine molecular arrangements in organic materials used in printed electronics, leading to the discovery of molecular alignment as a key factor in material performance. The technique could lead to cheaper and more efficient electronic devices.
Researchers found that alpha-synuclein protein aggregates in ring structures within neuron membranes, causing cell damage and symptoms of Parkinson's disease. The study provides a step-by-step explanation of how these aggregates form and offers hope for developing drugs to slow disease progression.
Scientists at GFZ used high-precision GPS data to determine earthquake magnitude and tsunami source in under 3 minutes. A GPS shield concept can provide accurate tsunami early warnings for regions with earthquake risks, correcting traditional seismic method limitations.
Researchers at Max Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology developed a device called Flywalk that measures insect responses to odor signals, revealing specific brain regions for processing attractants and deterrents. The study shows that flies process attractive odors differently depending on gender and reproductive status.
Research found that babies born in Magnet-credentialed hospitals had lower odds of death within the first week of life, infection, and brain hemorrhage. These hospitals have been shown to provide higher quality care for very low birth weight infants, who account for more than half of all infant deaths.
A study on vervet monkeys found that social learning is strongly influenced by matrilineal family members, with mothers being particularly strong role models. The research suggests that the mother-offspring relationship plays a crucial role in shaping the behavior of young monkeys.
A new report identifies strategies to improve the marketplace for malaria bed nets, aiming to save up to $630 million for the global community. The report suggests modifying policies to reduce costs and create market incentives for private enterprises to produce better-performing nets.