Researchers at Rice University have developed a way to selectively kill some diseased cells while treating others in the same sample using tunable plasmonic nanobubbles. The process activates with a pulse of laser light and leaves neighboring healthy cells untouched.
Researchers at Scripps Research Institute determine the structure of two proteins that form specialized subunits within cells, crucial for maintaining cell health. This discovery has implications for developing new cancer therapies by inhibiting autophagosome formation.
Scientists have studied a milling reaction in real time using highly penetrating X-rays, observing the transformation of simple ingredients into complex products. This breakthrough enables optimization of industrial processes, reducing solvent use and energy consumption.
Researchers identified four new gene regions linked to low birth weight, influencing adult height, type 2 diabetes risk, and blood pressure. The study's findings suggest a strong genetic influence on fetal growth and potential lifelong health benefits from prenatal interventions.
Researchers have identified a link between inflammation and heart disease through the largest genetic study of Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) to date. The study found that lipid metabolism and inflammation play a significant role in CAD, providing evidence for a novel pathway for prevention and treatment.
Scientists have developed a new method to study mechanochemical synthesis, allowing for the observation of complex chemical transformations in real-time. This breakthrough could lead to more environmentally friendly chemical production and optimize processes in various industries.
A study by Max Planck Institute of Psychiatry found that genetic variants of the FKBP5 gene can influence epigenetic alterations caused by early trauma, leading to lifelong dysregulation of stress hormones. This can result in increased risk of depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, and anxiety disorders in adulthood.
A systematic review of 14 studies and 1,600 participants found lasting decrements in neurological and cognitive function, particularly in memory and information processing speed. The study's findings suggest that low-level exposure to organophosphate pesticides may be associated with impaired cognitive function.
A new screening tool has been developed to help identify individual vulnerability to health and safety impacts of shift work. The tool, for a condition known as shift work disorder, aims to reduce workplace accidents and illnesses caused by shift work, including cardiovascular disease and cancer.
Researchers have successfully hybridized electronic and nuclear spin qubits using bismuth, enabling easier control over these complex systems. This breakthrough brings us closer to creating practical quantum computing capable of solving complex problems.
A large-scale international study identified 15 new genetic regions associated with coronary artery disease, revealing a link between inflammation and plaque buildup in heart vessels. The research, which analyzed data from over 190,000 participants, provides insights into the molecular pathways causing the deadly disease.
A Loyola University Medical Center neurologist reports a higher-than-expected rate of patients with non-epileptic seizures who also experience epileptic seizures during the same hospital stay. This finding is significant because it highlights the need for more accurate diagnosis and treatment of these conditions.
Researchers discover Anthrax Toxin Receptor 2a (Antxr2a) plays a crucial role in orienting cell division during embryonic development, guiding the positioning of chromosomes and mitotic spindle. This finding sheds light on the physiological function of Antxr2a and its potential involvement in other biological processes.
Global carbon dioxide emissions are projected to rise by 2.6% in 2012, reaching a record high of 35.6 billion tonnes, with China contributing 28% and the US 16%. The analysis highlights the urgent need for radical emission reductions to keep global warming below 2 degrees.
The Global Carbon Project warns that current trends are no longer aligned with the goal of limiting global warming to 2°C. To bridge this gap, a sustained global CO2 mitigation rate of at least 3% is needed to peak emissions before 2020 and follow an emission pathway that can keep temperatures below 2˚C.
A team of researchers at UCSF has identified a compound that regulates whole-body metabolism, providing a potential solution to obesity and diabetes. The breakthrough was achieved by screening over 2,400 medications in zebrafish, revealing two compounds that activate genes involved in fat burning.
Researchers identified a transporter molecule on the surface of cancer cells that can take in a toxic substance, allowing it to kill cancer cells. This discovery could lead to more targeted and effective cancer treatments.
Researchers at Stanford University School of Medicine have identified a master regulator of epidermal differentiation, a complex process in skin development. The newly discovered molecule, TINCR, plays a unique role in directing precursor cells down specific developmental pathways by binding to and stabilizing messenger RNAs.
Researchers found ARID1A and ARID1B gene mutations in 8 patients, associated with worse survival outcomes. The discovery could lead to early identification of high-risk patients requiring additional treatments.
Scientists have identified a 500 million-year-old genetic mutation that enabled complex thinking in humans and other mammals. This 'accident' provided the ability to learn and adapt, which is now associated with both intelligent behavior and brain diseases.
Researchers have discovered two related genes, ARID1A and ARID1B, involved in the most aggressive form of childhood cancer neuroblastoma. These findings identify a novel pathway that scientists can now study to develop potential new therapies for children with tumors having these mutations.
A large-scale study has identified 15 new genetic regions associated with coronary artery disease risk, bringing the total to 46 regions. The research also found that lipid metabolism and inflammation play a significant role in CAD.
A study by the American Academy of Sleep Medicine found that extended sleep time improves daytime alertness and reduces pain sensitivity in mildly sleepy adults. The results show a 25% increase in finger withdrawal latency, indicating reduced pain sensitivity.
A study by the University of Geneva reveals that colon polyps exhibit a 'mutator' profile associated with increased SNS mutations, leading to accelerated progression to malignancy. Three genes (APC, CTNNB1, and BRAF) are identified as initial causes on the road to cancer.
A recent study by Henry Ford Hospital found that steroid injections used to treat back pain can lead to significant bone density loss in postmenopausal women. The research highlights the need for caution when prescribing epidural steroids for patients at risk of bone fragility.
Researchers have found that targeting resistant lung cancer 'pockets' with focused radiation can prolong disease control in patients who initially respond to crizotinib or erlotinib. This approach showed significant benefits in patients whose cancers progressed in the brain, where the drugs are less effective.
A research team has uncovered the molecular structure of MITF, a master regulator central to melanoma and other diseases. The X-ray analysis revealed unexpected insertions that limit MITF's ability to bind to DNA, providing a rational basis for the development of tailor-made drugs targeting this protein.
A recent study published in BioScience reveals surprising results on the effects of climate change on ecosystems, highlighting the value of long-term ecological research. The analysis shows how changes in temperature and precipitation affect hydrologic variables, plant and animal community composition, and ecosystem services.
A series of studies by Intermountain Healthcare's Oncology Clinical Program shows that improving care across a large hospital system is possible through standardized care. Key findings include reduced mastectomies and lymph node removals in breast cancer patients, indicating a more consistent approach to treatment.
A higher density of neurologists and neurosurgeons in the US is associated with a decreased risk of death from stroke, according to a new study. The study found that an increase of one neuroscience provider per million population was linked to 0.38 fewer deaths from stroke per million population.
The study finds that the combined rate of ice sheet melting is increasing, with Antarctica and Greenland losing more than three times as much ice as in the 1990s. The new research confirms that both polar regions are losing ice, contrary to earlier uncertainty.
Researchers examine China's massive Grain to Green Program, which has invested over $32 billion to persuade farmers to return cropland to forest and grassland. The study found that too much land is being enrolled in the program in flat areas, and policymakers need to communicate more with farmers to better understand their needs.
A Wayne State University researcher is part of an international effort to study the movement of chemical compounds through the world's oceans. The project aims to investigate how carbon is exported from the upper 100 meters of ocean water to deeper waters and how hydrothermal waters affect the removal of polonium and lead.
The NASA HS3 mission has ended its 2012 campaign with a final data-collection flight in the North Pacific Ocean. The Global Hawk aircraft tested three new hurricane-tracking instruments: HIWRAP, HIRAD, and HAMSR, which will be used in next year's campaign to study hurricanes and severe storms.
Stephen Alexander, a University of Missouri professor, has been selected as an AAAS Fellow for his distinguished research on the molecular basis of drug resistance using model organisms. His work on glycosylation has provided important insights into cellular development and protein storage.
Researchers at Case Western Reserve University aim to increase the power density of their iron flow battery, enabling greater energy storage capacity while maintaining a lower cost. The new design could replace traditional storage technologies like pumped hydro and compressed air systems, offering flexibility for grid-scale energy supply.
A study by University of Bristol researchers found that while men made fewer eye movements than women, those they did make were longer and to more varied locations. Women's eyes were drawn to the rest of the bodies, particularly the female figure, in images of heterosexual couples.
Geoscientists highlight the importance of fundamental research in unlocking the full potential of emerging energy sources, including geothermal and shale gas. The development of these resources is hindered by geological and environmental challenges that must be addressed through basic scientific inquiry.
Researchers studied zebrafish mating behavior and found that males change color during courtship, while females do not, supporting the hypothesis that body coloration plays a role in zebrafish courtship. The study also revealed differences in color properties between wild-derived and domesticated strains of zebrafish.
A study by University of Iowa researchers predicts that North Atlantic tropical storms will become more intense as CO2 levels rise, with potentially devastating consequences for the East Coast US. The research used computer models and scenarios to examine projected changes in storm intensity and frequency.
A recent study published in PLOS One reveals that a common diarrhea-causing bacterium triggers an overactive immune response, worsening illness in hospital-acquired infections. Researchers found that activating a protective mechanism involving the PPARgamma pathway can reduce disease severity and be activated by existing diabetes drugs.
Douglas Kell, a University of Manchester professor, was elected a Fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) for his work in quantitative and systems biology and analytical biotechnology. He is one of fewer than 50 UK scientists to hold this honor, and will receive an official certificate and pin at the AA...
Residents in a new study by University of Pennsylvania researchers emphasize the negative impact of vacant land on physical and mental health. Participants expressed concerns about crime, stress, and feelings of helplessness when confronted with vacant lots, which often harbor garbage, vermin, and other hazards.
Researchers discovered a viable community of bacteria surviving without sunlight in Lake Vida's brine, which could have implications for finding life elsewhere. The findings suggest chemical reactions between the brine and sediments generate energy for microbial life.
Researchers explore autism spectrum disorder genetics and biomarker development in a special issue of Disease Markers. Early diagnosis through biomarkers could improve individual outcomes with early behavioral intervention.
Researchers found that hospital cleaning protocols are often inadequate to remove multidrug-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii from patient rooms, with over half of rooms still contaminated after terminal cleaning. Persistent room contamination poses a risk for future patients, highlighting the need for improved infection control measures.
Research reveals obese children exhibit greater brain activation in reward regions when exposed to food logos compared to healthy weight peers. Healthy weight children show increased self-control and brain activity associated with controlling cravings.
Food scientists at Virginia Tech have developed a way to fortify milk with fish oil without destroying flavor or shelf life. The study found that skim milk with 78 parts butter oil to 22 parts fish oil delivered 432 milligrams of heart-healthy fatty acids per cup, meeting the daily target for healthy people.
Emerging infectious diseases can be split into two types: introduced and locally emerging. Introduced diseases often cause a spike in infections, while locally emerging diseases show a steady increase. Climate change is not a major driving force behind emerging diseases.
Researchers developed a technique for estimating grape composition and variety using computer imaging, identifying exact color and morphological characteristics. This new method can help vine-growers decide the best moment for picking grapes, while also providing automated quality control and inspection.
A new study reveals that mixing oil with dispersants used in the 2010 Gulf of Mexico clean-up increases toxicity up to 52-fold, harming rotifers and potentially marine food webs. The study's findings suggest that natural dispersal may be a less toxic alternative to current methods.
Typhoon Bopha intensified into a typhoon with NASA's TRMM satellite capturing rainfall data and noticing 'Hot Tower' thunderstorms. The storm had several hot towers over 9.3 miles high, indicating an increased risk of intensification.
Researchers studying grey-mouse lemurs have found evidence of paternal kin recognition through vocalizations in a small-brained, solitary foraging mammal. The study provides insight into early primates from which humans evolved and suggests that kin recognition through voice was important for primate evolution.
New studies discuss the ecology, drivers, and dynamics of zoonoses, highlighting the need for effective collaboration between experts. While there are concerns about predicting zoonotic pandemics, recent advancements in modeling and technology suggest we may be on the verge of improvement.
Researchers at the University of Washington have developed a versatile platform to offer contraception and prevent HIV using electrically spun cloth with nanometer-sized fibers. The fabric can dissolve to release drugs, providing immediate or sustained protection against unwanted pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases.
A study found that antiretroviral therapy (ART) for the HIV-positive partner in a serodiscordant couple significantly reduces HIV transmission rates, with a 26% relative reduction. However, the protective effect of ART seemed to only last for one year.
Researchers found that schizophrenia patients' brains process simple auditory tones inefficiently, leading to widespread dysfunction and difficulties in attention, learning, and recalling information. This impairment can also affect social relationships, school or job performance, and overall quality of life.
A study published in Genetics Society of America's journal found that Native Americans and Northern Europeans are more closely related than previously thought. The research used statistical tools to show that Neanderthals mixed with modern humans also revealed a common ancestor between Native Americans and Northern Europeans.
Studies by University of Missouri psychologists found that individuals with 'urgency' personality tend to drive after drinking due to impulsivity. Reducing travel wait times for taxis and public transit could provide a safe alternative, helping to lower DWI rates.
Researchers have developed a new treatment approach for Alzheimer's disease by knocking out the gene responsible for producing the HDAC6 enzyme. This intervention improved cognitive abilities and behavioral disorders in mice, suggesting that improving cellular traffic may be key to treating neurodegenerative diseases.