A study by University of California, Berkeley chemists links increased fertilizer use to nitrous oxide rise, a major greenhouse gas contributing to global climate change. The study uses nitrogen isotope data to identify the fingerprint of fertilizer use in archived air samples from Antarctica and Tasmania.
Researchers tracked changes in birdsong over time and found a strong link between the shift and increasing urban noise. Birds changed their tune to be heard above the cacophony of car horns and engine rumbles, with one dialect dominating the city's song repertoire.
Researchers have developed a computational model called 'cell graphs' that links the structure of human tissue to its corresponding biological function. This new tool uses graph theory and can be used to determine whether a tissue sample is cancerous or not, eliminating differences of opinion between doctors.
A Mayo Clinic-led study has found that a combination of the novel drug TH-302 with standard drug gemcitabine delays cancer worsening in patients with advanced pancreatic cancer. The 2-drug combo showed a 5.6-month progression-free survival, significantly extending the average survival of six to seven months.
The MMRF has partnered with TGen, Spectrum Health, and VARI to provide genomic services and analyze patient samples in a landmark 1000-patient study on multiple myeloma. The study aims to identify specific subgroups of patients and provide insights into the molecular changes that affect disease progression.
New research reveals that supermassive black holes can double in mass by ripping apart double-star systems and swallowing one of the stars. This process is thought to be the dominant method for growing these massive objects.
Researchers have found a partial foot skeleton that belongs to an early human ancestor, distinct from Lucy's species and Ardipithecus ramidus. The Burtele foot shows unique characteristics, including an opposable great toe, suggesting the presence of multiple hominin species during the late Pliocene era.
A study by researchers at the University of Gothenburg found that cooperation is key to success in violent computer games. Successful gamers exhibit strategic and technical knowledge, as well as good timing, to outperform their opponents. The findings question the long-standing debate on the link between gaming and aggression.
Researchers discovered that ovastacin, an astacin family member, cleaves the ZP2 protein in the zona pellucida matrix surrounding eggs. This proteolysis blocks additional sperm binding, preventing polyspermy and ensuring embryonic development. Ovastacin's function is crucial for single fertilization.
A new study by Georgetown Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center finds that using a c-Src inhibitor like PP2 in combination with estrogen may cancel out the benefits of estrogen therapy. Instead, a c-Src inhibitor alone may offer an alternative treatment option for breast cancer patients whose tumors no longer respond to tamoxifen or aro...
A University of Washington study found that sex-offender registries inflate counts by as much as 60%, with only 43% of listed offenders actually living in designated communities. The discrepancy is largely attributed to differences in data collection and reporting procedures among states.
Researchers at MIT's DRL have developed algorithms that could enable smart sand to assemble itself into large-scale replicas of models, using a subtractive method and minimizing computational resources. The system uses electropermanent magnets and microprocessors to communicate and share power among grains.
A new study found that a protein called SIX1 plays a critical role in early stage metastasis, especially lymphatic metastasis, in breast cancer. The study identified the SIX1-VEGF-C pathway as an important signaling pathway involved in breast cancer metastasis.
Researchers at CU Boulder have discovered a protein complex involving toll-like receptor 4 and myeloid differentiation protein receptor 2 that triggers unwanted neuroinflammation in response to morphine. This finding has implications for developing new drugs to increase morphine effectiveness while preventing abuse.
Researchers discovered a novel signaling pathway involving SIX1 and VEGF-C that plays a crucial role in breast cancer metastasis. The study showed that this pathway can be targeted to develop new anti-cancer therapies.
Researchers found that infection with gammaherpesvirus 68 significantly reduces lupus symptoms in mice, including decreased antibodies, reduced tissue damage, and inhibited activation of lymphocytes and dendritic cells. The study suggests a possible mechanism for how the virus protects against autoimmunity.
Radioactive iodine found in New Hampshire's Mink Brook watershed is a result of the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power facility's explosion. The study shows minimal deposition in soil but doubling in stream sediments, with significant dilution expected.
Researchers created transgenic mice with light-emitting lymphatic vessels to study tumor cell dissemination. The technique detects lymph node invasion by tumor cells, providing a unique tool for studying inflammation and metastasis.
Researchers at Brown University have discovered a new signaling molecule, Gbb38, that plays a crucial role in tissue formation in flies. The study suggests possible links to human developmental disorders, such as cleft lip and palate, and may lead to improved therapeutics for bone repair and reconstruction.
A task force report strongly recommends implementing conservative catch limits for 'forage fish' like sardines and anchovies. These small species are crucial prey for larger species, including salmon, cod, tuna, dolphins, whales, penguins, and seabirds.
A survey of mothers tested for hereditary breast cancer risk genes and their partners found unmet needs in making well-informed decisions about family communication. Genetic counseling should provide assistance to parents in disclosing risk information to children, the article proposes.
Scientists analyzed two years of data from NASA's Fermi Gamma-ray Space Telescope to detect gamma-ray signals from hypothetical particles. No signals were detected, ruling out WIMP candidates within a specific range of masses and interaction rates as dark matter.
Dr. Eric N. Olson, chairman of molecular biology at UT Southwestern Medical Center, has been awarded the 2012 Steven C. Beering Award for his work on major genetic pathways controlling heart and muscle formation. Several drugs based on his research are currently under study.
Cell Press has introduced a new career network to facilitate the discovery of best jobs for life scientists. The site offers improved navigation, advanced resources, and an expanded resume option.
A long-term study found that early life emotional trauma can stunt intellectual development, with the most significant impact during the first two years of life. The study tracked 206 children and found that those exposed to maltreatment or violence against their mother had lower cognitive scores at all age points.
An international research team found elevated levels of radioactive substances in the Pacific Ocean, reflecting the complex nature of the marine environment. While levels of radioactivity in marine life were below concern for humans and organisms, long-term impacts on the ecosystem remain unclear.
New research suggests that some corals and their symbiotic algae have an in-built mechanism to cope with ocean acidification. However, coralline algae and a large class of plankton appear vulnerable to rising acidity, posing concerns for marine life and the oceans' ability to absorb CO2.
A Canadian Journal of Surgery study reveals that only 13 out of 14,000 cancer patients with bone metastases receive orthopedic care annually. This under-referral may contribute to poor outcomes and high mortality rates, emphasizing the need for timely surgical consultations.
Scientists have discovered the first evidence of Pre-Columbian sources of palygorskite for Maya Blue. Researchers established a link between contemporary indigenous knowledge and ancient mines in Mexico's northern Yucatan Peninsula.
Scientists have identified PRC2, a chromatin regulator, as a promising therapeutic target in acute myeloid leukemia. Blocking PRC2 halts uncontrolled proliferation and reactivates anti-tumor pathways, offering a potential new treatment option.
A new study in Annals of Internal Medicine reveals that mammography screening may lead to overdiagnosis of breast cancer, potentially causing unnecessary anxiety and altered quality of life. Meanwhile, an international network of experts proposes minimum standards for guideline development to ensure high-quality evidence-based care. Ad...
A recent study published in PLoS ONE found that the Body Mass Index (BMI) substantially under-diagnoses obesity in the US, with 39% of Americans classified as overweight being actually obese. The researchers suggest using leptin levels in conjunction with BMI to provide a more accurate measure of adiposity.
Researchers have identified metastasin as a crucial protein that helps stop tumor cells from spreading. By understanding how metastasin binds to motor proteins, scientists can develop drugs to block this interaction and prevent tumor cell proliferation.
A new study in animal models found that women with breast cancer who began eating soy as an adult may develop a tumor more resistant to treatment. The research suggests that stopping soy intake if diagnosed with breast cancer could be beneficial.
Researchers at BUSM discovered the liver's regulatory function in responding to lung infections. The study found that hepatocytes generate blood proteins that change concentration during an acute phase response, which prevents bacterial spread.
Researchers found (S)-NNN to be a strong oral carcinogen, inducing oral cancer in rats. The chemical is present in smokeless tobacco products and has been linked to an increased risk of oral cavity cancers.
Boston Medical Center physician Jeffrey Samet, MD, received a $1.4 million NIDA grant to develop the Research in Addiction Medicine Scholars (RAMS) Program, which aims to create formal addiction medicine training programs with strong research components.
A clinical trial involving 14 TNBC tumors explores the use of whole-genome sequencing to identify potential treatment options. The study aims to advance personalized medicine and guide treatment for individual patients.
A new study found that dogs who have 'run out' of self-control make more impulsive decisions, increasing their risk of physical harm. In the experiment, dogs with depleted self-control spent more time near an aggressive dog than those without depleted self-control.
An international group of scientists proposes a plan to describe 10 million species in less than 50 years, leveraging worldwide collections and technological advances. This mission aims to chart the biosphere and understand the origin, organization, and sustainability of biodiversity.
Researchers have found evidence that smaller hyperthermal events, which occurred more than 50 million years ago, had a similar origin to the larger Pelaeocene-Eocene Thermal Maximum (PETM). The study confirms that these events were atmospheric and global, rather than just oceanic processes.
A study by UCLA's Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center found that early Positron Emission Tomography (PET) response after neoadjuvant chemotherapy is associated with increased survival in patients with soft tissue sarcomas. Patients who showed a significant PET response had significantly longer survival rates compared to those who did not.
A new non-invasive technology, stool DNA (sDNA) testing, is being studied in a five-year clinical trial to detect colon cancer in its earliest stages. The test aims to improve colon cancer screening rates and decrease mortality from the deadly disease by complementing colonoscopy.
Researchers at the University of Toronto have created a new neural imaging system that allows for more complex maps of brain functions with just one camera and imaging system. This technology uses vertical cavity surface emitting lasers to classify veins and arteries simultaneously.
A Johns Hopkins study of thousands of identical twins found that whole genome sequencing is not informative for predicting most common diseases. While the test can alert individuals to an increased risk of certain diseases, it fails to forewarn them of others they may ultimately develop.
Researchers found that between 15% and 25% of breast cancer cases are overdiagnosed due to routine mammography screening. This can lead to unnecessary treatments and stress for women, with only a small reduction in mortality rates.
Scientists at Fox Chase Cancer Center found that defects in ribosomal proteins can lead to blood and other cancers. Inactivating L22, a key protein, triggered changes in cell signaling pathways associated with inflammation, which may be targeted for cancer treatment.
A new study in Biological Psychiatry has discovered that testosterone's antidepressant properties are mediated by a specific pathway in the hippocampus. Testosterone replacement therapy has been shown to effectively improve mood, particularly in men with hypogonadism.
Research finds improved survival rates among patients with non-shockable cardiac arrests when given CPR based on updated guidelines. The likelihood of survival to discharge increased from 4.6% to 6.8%, and one-year survival doubled from 2.7% to 4.9%
A study at Fox Chase Cancer Center found that patients with a specific variant of the CYP1B1 gene have a longer time-to-recurrence of squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck. This discovery could lead to tailored treatment approaches for affected individuals.
Common osteoporosis medications may increase the risk of scleritis and uveitis, two inflammatory eye diseases that can severely impact vision. First-time users of oral bisphosphonates are at a higher risk compared to non-users.
Computer scientist Hava Siegelmann has developed an adaptable computational system that learns and evolves, using input from the environment in a way much more like our brains do. The Super-Turing model yields exponentially greater repertoire of behaviors than classical computers.
A prospective controlled study of 309 mother-infant pairs found that prenatal antipsychotic exposure was associated with significantly lower scores on a standardized neuromotor screening measure. Infants exposed to antidepressants also showed lower scores, while those with no psychotropic exposure scored highest. The study highlights t...
A study published by the JAMA Network found that about half of preschoolers lack daily parent-supervised outdoor playtime, with significant disparities among racial and ethnic groups. Regular outdoor play was associated with improved physical health and development outcomes, as well as reduced TV viewing time.
Chronic psychological stress is associated with a loss of ability to regulate inflammatory response, promoting disease development. Inflammation plays a key role in various diseases like cardiovascular and autoimmune disorders.
Researchers have developed a method to destroy cancer cells using the death cap mushroom's α-amanitin toxin without harming healthy cells. The toxin is linked to an antibody that targets a protein on cancer cells, inhibiting tumor growth and causing regression in mice.
Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh have found that fluctuations in brain activity impact cognitive tasks, leading to errors in short-term memory. By understanding how neural variability relates to cognitive functions, the team aims to provide important clues about the neural mechanisms that support cognition.
Research confirms that childhood onset temporal lobe epilepsy is associated with significant cognitive and developmental deficiencies. As patients age, extensive brain structural abnormalities persist, including ventricular expansion and cortical thickness changes.
Researchers identified a special class of fatty molecules essential for activating immune cells, offering new opportunities for therapeutic interventions. The discovery sheds light on how recognition of these stimulatory fatty molecules by immune cells protects against infection, autoimmune diseases, and cancer.
A new study published in the Journal of the American College of Surgeons found that early surgical intervention for children with perforated appendicitis reduces hospital charges and clinical complications. Early appendectomy patients had better outcomes and fewer adverse events compared to those who underwent the procedure later.
Researchers found that moderately regulated calorie intake during infancy reduced the likelihood of becoming obese, contrary to previous studies. Early dietary interventions may have long-lasting effects into childhood and adult life.
African sleeping sickness, caused by Trypanosoma brucei, affects 60 million people in rural sub-Saharan Africa, where healthcare access is limited. Researchers studying the parasite's glucose-sensing mechanisms aim to develop new therapeutics and improve understanding of glucose regulation in various organisms.
A new study found that nearly half of U.S. preschoolers do not have a single parent-supervised outdoor play opportunity per day. Parents are the greatest influence on children's behavior, and research highlights the importance of promoting active healthy living through outdoor play.
Scientists uncover evidence of punctuated evolution in ancient Egyptian cotton, suggesting rapid change over a short period. The findings shed light on agricultural development in the ancient world and provide insights for modern agriculture.
The American College of Rheumatology (ACR) has released updated guidelines for the use of disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) and biologic agents in treating rheumatoid arthritis. The new recommendations aim to improve treatment outcomes and quality of life for patients.
A new study published by the American College of Surgeons found that patients who underwent an operation as part of their cancer treatment and started a regular walking regimen experienced less fatigue than those who did not. After three months, the intervention group reported a 27% improvement in fatigue, compared to a 19% improvement...
Researchers identified unique subgroups among children with ADHD, highlighting individual variability. The study suggests new methods for characterizing individuals and tailoring treatments to address specific deficits and strengths.
A new study has found that sublethal concentrations of Roundup can alter the morphology of amphibian tadpoles, causing them to change shape in ways that mimic predator-induced changes. This is the first study to show a pesticide inducing morphological changes in a vertebrate animal.
The Canadian Medical Association Journal disputes the notion that older drivers are inherently poor. Frailty and driving habits contribute to their overrepresentation in fatal crashes. Despite this, many physicians base licensing decisions on incorrect beliefs.
Suicide rates in Canada are increasing among girls aged 10-19, with suffocation being the most common method. The rate for females increased from 0.6 to 6.2 per 100,000 between 1980 and 2008, while deaths by suffocation rose by an average of 8% annually.
A cervical pessary significantly reduces the likelihood of premature delivery in women with a short cervix. The pessary also leads to improved pregnancy outcomes, including reduced rates of low birthweight and respiratory difficulties.
Researchers are developing a climate model to predict malaria outbreaks in India by identifying areas at risk of heavy monsoon rainfall. The model aims to inform early intervention methods and prevent the spread of malaria, reducing economic and health impacts.
Researchers' study shows that people prioritize personal cooperation over network reciprocity, contradicting previous studies. The study's findings suggest that decision-making in cooperative dilemmas depends solely on individual experiences, not social networks.
The University of Colorado Department of Radiology has developed a smartcard to communicate effective doses and radiation risks of common adult radiologic exams to referring physicians and patients. The Adult Dose-Risk Smartcard simplifies facts on radiation dose and risk for informed decision-making about medical imaging procedures.
A new study published in Psychological Science found that people don't project their feelings onto others who have different political views, even when the feelings are overwhelming. This limits our ability to empathize with people we disagree with, suggesting a surprising limit to our emotional connections.
A three-year clinical trial found that intermittent preventive treatment (IPT) reduced malaria infections among infants by up to 30%. The treatment regime protected against malaria for at least six weeks after treatment, showing an ongoing protective effect.
Scientists have discovered that the Earth's crust beneath the Mississippi Delta sinks at a much slower rate than previously assumed. The researchers used sea-level reconstructions from different portions of coastal Louisiana to compare rates of subsidence over time.
A study by Kaiser Permanente found no increased risk of febrile seizures among 4-6 year olds after measles-containing vaccine administration. The research analyzed over 86,750 children and found that separate MMR plus V vaccines also did not increase the risk of febrile seizures in this age group.
Researchers have discovered how opioid drugs like morphine create an inflammatory response in the brain by activating an immune receptor. This breakthrough could lead to new therapeutic drugs that improve morphine's effectiveness while reducing its problematic side effects.
A study found that waist measures, including waist circumference and waist-to-height ratio, are associated with lipid and blood pressure assessments in overweight and obese adolescents. In contrast, body mass index alone did not show strong associations with these health markers.
The incidence of melanoma has escalated, with a dramatic rise in women in their 20s and 30s. Researchers attribute this to increased use of indoor tanning beds and childhood sunburns, leading to higher lifetime risk of melanoma.
Research published in Occupational and Environmental Medicine finds that asbestos workers are significantly more likely to die from cardiovascular disease, even after adjusting for smoking. Women are found to be at greater risk than men, with longer exposure durations increasing the likelihood of heart disease deaths.
Research at the University of Oregon reveals that partner aggression around a child's birth impacts parenting three years later. The level of psychological and physical abuse between parents predicts harsh parenting, which in turn leads to higher behavior problems in children.
The University of Chicago Medicine will launch a new program to study the role of spirituality in medical practice and education, with a focus on how a physician's personal beliefs inform their professional life. The Faculty Scholars program aims to train junior faculty to conduct research on this topic.
Researchers at the University of Toronto and Hebrew University have identified evidence of controlled fire use by human ancestors dating back to one million years ago. The findings, published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, suggest that Homo erectus may have begun using fire as part of their way of life.
Scientists have discovered a new paradigm for immunotherapy against cancer by priming antibodies and T cells with cancer stem cells. The study found that purified cancer stem cells strengthened the potency of antibodies and T cells that selectively targeted cancer stem cells.
A study led by St. Michael's Hospital researchers found that doctors are more reluctant to start patients on insulin due to amplified concerns about side effects. However, the study suggests that better insulin regimens and smart injection methods can make treatment safer and more manageable.
Scientists at Fox Chase Cancer Center have discovered compounds that enhance the effects of gemcitabine, improving its ability to kill pancreatic cancer cells. This breakthrough could lead to a lower dose of chemotherapy with fewer side effects, potentially increasing survival rates for patients.
The American College of Rheumatology (ACR) has endorsed six standardized measures to determine rheumatoid arthritis disease activity. These measures are sensitive to change, can discriminate between low, moderate, and high disease activity states, and include remission criteria, making them feasible to perform in a clinical setting.
Research using tDCS shows promise in speeding up word finding in stroke patients and enhancing memory in Parkinson's and Alzheimer's disease patients. Numerical skills can also be improved using tDCS applied to the posterior parietal cortex, with observed improvements lasting up to 6 months.
The program is designed for undergraduate nursing students, providing a rigorous curriculum and mentorship to accelerate completion of a Ph.D. in five years. The scholars will examine complex health issues through innovative approaches, aiming to design and implement research that improves patient care.
The incidence of twin births in the US has increased significantly over the past three decades, with one in every 30 babies born being a twin in 2009. Fertility treatments are a key factor in this increase, accounting for two-thirds of the rise.
Researchers found a decrease in cerebrospinal fluid biomarker P-tau following treatment with bapineuzumab, suggesting potential benefits for Alzheimer's patients. However, further examination is needed to determine if these changes correlate with clinical improvements.
A new study found that robotic-assisted surgery for bladder cancer results in fewer deaths, in-patient complications, and reduced need for intravenous nutrition compared to traditional open surgeries. However, the procedure is more costly due to longer operation times and greater use of disposable instruments.
A recent study published in the Journal of the American College of Radiology found that multi-detector CT scans pose a lower risk of developing secondary cancers among older adults. The researchers analyzed data from Medicare claims spanning eight years and estimated that only 0.03-0.04 percent of the population would develop radiation...
Researchers at Georgia Tech discovered the importance of a hydrogen bonding water network in photosystem II, a critical step in photosynthesis. The study suggests that mimicking this process could provide new supplies of oxygen and hydrogen as a by-product of electricity production.
A study at Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center found that patients prefer immediate access to radiology test results, even for complex diagnoses. The study showed that about half of participants preferred instant access, while a third preferred access within three days.
Research reveals that systemic inflammation causes an increase in depressive symptoms and metabolic changes in the brain's mood-regulating regions. This finding opens doors for testing potential treatments for depression in patients experiencing inflammatory-related symptoms.
A proactive solution could help prevent injuries by restricting driving privileges under favourable conditions. Exemptions would be granted for certified healthy seniors, shifting the onus from others to seek exemptions.
A PET imaging agent has been shown to reverse neurotoxicity and improve motor skills and memory in animal models of Parkinson's disease. The compound works as a scavenger of peroxynitrite, reducing neuronal death and promoting revival of neuronal function.
Researchers have found that individuals with specific gene variants are more likely to develop PTSD symptoms after exposure to trauma. The study suggests a genetic link to PTSD, which could lead to new screening methods and targeted treatments.
Researchers found that stimulating specific neurons can reverse age-related memory defects in fruit flies, which may have implications for human memory disorders. The study used functional cellular imaging to monitor neuron activity and showed that cold-activated ion channels can rescue intermediate-term memory.
Researchers at Yale University have created a compound that prevents the growth of the malaria parasite within red blood cells. The compound, developed by Sidney Altman and his team, shows promise in combating drug-resistant strains of the disease, which kills over 1 million people annually.
A landmark study by University of Leicester researcher Dr Patrick White found that participation in adult learning neither increased nor widened during the first decade of the 21st Century. Despite easier access to the internet, online technologies failed to break down barriers to learning and expand access to previously excluded groups.
A new phase III study comparing the efficacy of Bacillus Calmette Guérin strains Tice and Connaught for non-muscle invasive bladder cancer treatment found that Connaught significantly reduced cancer recurrence rates, with a five-year recurrence-free survival rate of 75% compared to 46% for Tice. The study has the potential to shift the...
A study published in Archives of General Psychiatry found that most teenagers who use alcohol and drugs start using them during adolescence, with the median age of onset at 14 years old. By late adolescence, nearly three-quarters of teens reported having consumed alcohol, and one-fifth had met criteria for lifetime abuse.
The study found that a small amount of money can be an effective motivator, encouraging drivers to arrive earlier or leave later during peak hours. By leveraging social responsibility and game theory, the Capri program aims to reduce rush hour traffic by a few hundred cars.