Researchers discovered that geckos have trouble sticking to smooth, wet surfaces when their feet get wet. The animals' toes produce a water-repellent layer, which interferes with their adhesive mechanism. However, once the lizards' feet dry, they can regain their grip and walk on wet surfaces.
Researchers at Scripps Research Institute describe three human antibodies protecting against a wide variety of flu viruses, including Influenza B strains. These broadly neutralizing antibodies may provide key clues to designing an active universal flu vaccine.
A UCI-led review reveals creative methods for capturing liquid sewage, highway runoff, and household water to supplement drinking water. The study concludes that transforming individual habits and adopting sustainable practices are crucial to breaking the cycle of waste and over-reliance on freshwater resources.
A study published in The Lancet found that statin therapy can reduce cardiovascular disease risk, even among patients at high risk of developing diabetes. Patients with diabetes risk factors were 28% more likely to develop diabetes, but still saw a 39% reduced risk of cardiovascular illness and 17% lower mortality.
The US Navy recently defended its use of renewable fuels, citing a 50% biofuels blend during the RIMPAC 2012 exercises. The Navy believes that these resources are crucial for enhancing national security and energy independence.
A study published in Genetics found that manipulating a hormone-producing cell group in the brain can control blood sugar levels. Fruit flies were used to test the effect of inhibiting AMP-activated kinase, resulting in reduced hyperactivity and lowered sugar release when starved.
Researchers at MIT and Harvard have developed a soft, peristalsis-driven robot that can inch along surfaces using segments of artificial muscle made from nickel-titanium alloy. The robot, named Meshworm, is remarkably resilient, surviving multiple blows with a hammer without sustaining damage.
A pediatric hospital implemented a prospective-audit-with-feedback antibiotic stewardship program, resulting in a significant decrease in antibiotic usage - up to 37% in early months and 13% at the end of the observation. The study showed a notable reduction in broad-spectrum antibiotics, aligning with CDC recommendations.
Researchers have successfully reconstructed ancient climate change records over the last 1.5 million years by separating ocean temperatures from changes in global ice volume. This new dataset provides a more accurate picture of the Earth's climate system, shedding light on major shifts in climate patterns.
A new technique has revealed a significant amount of dark matter near the Sun, contradicting previous studies that found less. The researchers used a simulation of the Milky Way to test their method and obtained a high measure of local dark matter density.
NASA's Aqua satellite detected Tropical Storm Kirogi moving into sea surface temperatures below 25 Celsius, expected to weaken and transform into an extra-tropical cyclone. The storm is forecasted to track over cooler waters, helping to dissipate its warm core.
Recent studies have discovered new negative regulators in Egfr signaling, explored whole-genome association mapping in yeast, and resolved the mutation load paradox in humans. Researchers also developed a method for identifying lethal alleles using next-generation sequencing.
A study of 89 million Americans found that 23 million experienced multiple gaps in coverage, while those with gaps suffered as well as those who remained insured. The researchers highlight the need for stable and affordable insurance to minimize uninsured gaps.
Researchers develop electrotactile stimulation devices that can respond to touch and finger movement, paving the way for smart surgical gloves. The devices could enable precise local ablations and ultrasound scans with unprecedented accuracy.
A recent study published in European Physical Journal B found that imposing minimum capital levels for banks may trigger a widespread banking system collapse. The researchers' model showed that the effect of a single insolvency can trigger an avalanche in the banking system, leading to larger crises.
Scientists have identified a new stem cell population that gives rise to neurons in the upper layers of the cerebral cortex, which are responsible for higher thinking. This finding paves the way for developing better treatments for cognitive disorders such as schizophrenia and autism by producing these neurons in culture.
Researchers have created a framework for stabilizing magnetic monopoles, which could lead to breakthroughs in data storage. The discovery was made possible by studying spin ice materials at low temperatures, where frustration among magnetic atoms leads to the formation of unpaired poles.
A team of University of Georgia researchers has developed a technique combining LiDAR and satellite imagery to create precise coastal maps. The new website provides access to high-resolution data on beach availability, tidal ranges, and erosion for policymakers, conservationists, and tourists.
A new device developed by NASA measures formaldehyde levels at low and high altitudes, revealing that 30-40% of pollution is transported during storms. The instrument offers a factor-of-10 improvement in size, sensitivity, and complexity over existing devices.
A new study published in Nutrition Journal found that reducing calorie intake, regardless of whether it comes from table sugar or high fructose corn syrup, leads to similar weight loss outcomes. The research debunks the notion that one type of added sugar is more detrimental to weight loss than others.
Recent studies have found that poorly-performing hand implants, such as the Moje and Elektra thumb CMC joint implants, should be withdrawn due to poor outcomes. The Journal of Hand Surgery recommends caution when using these implants in future surgeries.
A new study published in the Journal of Nutrition found that consuming grapes reduced blood pressure, improved blood flow and decreased inflammation in men with metabolic syndrome. The polyphenols found in grapes are thought to be responsible for these beneficial effects.
Researchers develop SPAdes, a new algorithm to sequence genomes from single cells, enabling analysis of 'dark matter' bacteria and human pathogens. The breakthrough could lead to early detection of cancer progression by monitoring normal cells before they turn malignant.
Researchers Paul J Steinhardt and Luca Bindi found naturally occurring quasicrystal samples in far eastern Russia, strengthening the case that they arrived on Earth from outer space. The samples were brought to the area during the last glacial period, suggesting a meteorite hit around 15,000 years ago.
The 'Treating the Whole Person with Autism' conference brought together families and professionals to discuss current guidance on medical issues associated with ASD. Key findings highlighted the importance of considering the whole child in treatment plans, as well as the need for continued research on care across the lifespan.
Researchers have developed a method to find and kill malignant cells while sparing healthy ones using theranostic imaging. The technique relies on binding a potent drug therapy to specific proteins on tumor cell surfaces, allowing it to target cancerous cells with precision.
Scientists have identified a group of blood markers that show consistent findings in patients with Alzheimer's disease and mild cognitive impairment. The study found four proteins that correlated with beta-amyloid levels in cerebrospinal fluid, providing potential clues for an early diagnosis.
The Neolithic Age saw a direct connection between the development of an agricultural society and the emergence of sophisticated carpentry. Archaeological evidence suggests that as humans transitioned from hunter-gatherers to farmers, they also developed heavier axes and woodworking tools capable of felling trees.
Researchers at the University of Akron are studying geckos' foot pads to develop a synthetic adhesive that sticks when wet. The team hopes to create materials for surgical procedures and other applications where adhesion is crucial in wet environments.
A study published in Oncogene found that progestins regulate miRNA-29, a molecule that helps breast cancer cells revert to a stem-like state marked by proteins CD44 and CK5. This phenomenon makes breast cancers more resistant to treatments targeting hormone dependence.
A study published online found that long-term alcohol abuse affects white matter brain volume differently for men and women. Women tend to recover their lost white matter volume more quickly than men with abstinence, while excessive drinking is associated with increased ventricular size in alcoholic women.
Researchers found several genes in nematode worms that could be potential targets for anti-cancer therapies. By inhibiting these genes, they may reverse key traits associated with cancer cells.
A study by Jean Twenge and colleagues found that the use of female pronouns in books increased as women's status rose, particularly after 1968. The analysis revealed a correlation between the frequency of female pronouns and women's educational attainment, labor force participation, and delayed marriage.
A study by Michigan State University scholars reveals that poor urban residents travel long distances for healthy food due to inadequate access to amenities. The research highlights the disproportionate impact of urban planning on low-income communities, leading to higher rates of obesity and related health problems.
A study at the University of Pittsburgh has identified a brain area responsible for using past decisions and outcomes to guide future behavior, suggesting that living in the moment is impossible due to the need for continuity of thought. The frontal eye field and supplementary eye field were found to play key roles in metacognition.
Researchers at Oregon State University have found a type of 'selfish' mitochondrial DNA in animals that is hurting the organism and affecting its chance to survive. The discovery bears similarities to damage done to human cells as they age and may provide an important new tool to study human aging.
A study by Katherine M. Sharkey found that bariatric surgery patients with obstructive sleep apnea report fewer symptoms than other OSA patients, despite being at a higher risk for heart disease and stroke. The study highlights the need to identify OSA in bariatric patients prior to surgery to reduce complications.
The Johns Hopkins Center for Inherited Disease Research has received $101 million in research funding from the National Institutes of Health. The center, part of the McKusick-Nathans Institute of Genetic Medicine, will support the genetics community in finding genes that contribute to disease through DNA genotyping and sequencing.
Students from various majors spent 10 weeks conducting intensive research projects under faculty mentorship. The Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship (SURF) program aims to provide students with a concentrated research experience, leading to groundbreaking discoveries in fields such as cancer and neurological disorders.
A new study suggests that hormone acting drugs combined with uterine artery embolization can effectively treat large uterine fibroids without the need for surgery. The treatment has been shown to reduce complications and shrink fibroids by an average of 36%.
Hurricane Gilma showed concentrated areas of very cold cloud tops with temperatures as low as -63F (-52C), indicating powerful thunderstorms. The storm is moving towards cooler waters, expected to weaken over the next day.
A new Primer series in the Genetics journal provides accessible scientific papers for undergraduate students, focusing on contemporary research and promoting active learning. The resource aims to engage students in critically analyzing primary research, a vital part of research training.
A NIH-funded study reveals that hoarding disorder is associated with abnormal brain activity in areas processing error monitoring and weighing the value of possessions. Patients with hoarding disorder tend to over-activate these areas when deciding about their own possessions, but under-activate them when dealing with others' stuff.
Researchers have discovered a new compound with significantly higher anti-HIV activity and improved binding affinity to the CXCR4 receptor. This breakthrough has potential for developing new, more effective drugs against HIV-1 infections and related diseases.
A meta-analysis of clinical trials found no statistically significant differences in viral load after 48 weeks between women and men with HIV. However, subgroup analyses revealed significant gender differences favoring males in certain outcomes.
Researchers found that the most active males interacted with females and sired the most offspring, challenging the common view that reduced performance is an evolutionarily inescapable outcome of sleep loss. Despite this deficit, successful males returned to the breeding area more often and were more likely to sire offspring in their s...
A study of children with chronic hepatitis C found that those treated with peginterferon alpha experienced significant changes in height, weight, and BMI, which were reversible after treatment cessation. Height-for-age scores did not return to baseline for many children two years after stopping therapy.
Researchers have successfully tested a vaccine against the deadly Nipah virus in monkeys, achieving a 75% fatality rate in humans. The vaccine, based on a protein from Hendra virus, has shown great efficacy in protecting animals from infection.
The National Space Biomedical Research Institute (NSBRI) has renewed its Graduate Education Program in Space Life Sciences at Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and Texas AûM University. The programs focus on space life sciences and provide Ph.D. training to students, with a combined value of $1 million over 5 years.
Researchers have identified sphingosine kinase as a key player in promoting resistance to breast cancer therapies, such as tamoxifen. Targeted inhibition of SK has shown potential in inducing cell death and blocking tumor growth in drug-resistant models.
Researchers have developed a wireless power device called rectenna that can harness energy from smartphones and transmit it to nearby objects. The device is priced at just one penny per unit and has the potential to revolutionize daily interactions with everyday objects.
Researchers found reducing copper in mice with prion disease delays onset by 20 days, with less abnormal protein in brains. However, study does not advocate for copper depletion as therapy and aims to learn more about copper function and prion disease biochemical workings.
A study by Carnegie Mellon University reveals that biogenic particles formed from pine tree emissions are chemically transformed by free radicals, altering their properties and concentrations. This finding can help improve climate and air quality prediction models and enable regulatory agencies to make more effective decisions.
An UCLA scientist has discovered that the geological phenomenon of plate tectonics exists on Mars, revealing a primitive stage of plate tectonics. The discovery provides insight into how the early Earth may have looked and helps understand the origins of plate tectonics on Earth.
A Kansas State University expert's study reveals that relationship dynamics with ex-partners significantly impact co-parenting relationships. Mothers with contentious relationships often struggle with parenting styles, financial concerns, and control issues, while those with amicable relationships prioritize communication and shared re...
China's water crisis is characterized by severe pollution, eutrophication, and lack of access to safe drinking water, with two-thirds of cities experiencing shortages. To achieve sustainability, experts suggest adopting a systems approach that considers multiple perspectives and values.
A new study found that hepatitis A vaccination in children under 2 years old is highly effective, with most retaining protection for at least 10 years. The vaccine's effectiveness was not affected by the transfer of mothers' antibodies to their child, contradicting previous concerns.
TRMM satellite data reveals areas of intense rainfall, with powerful convective thunderstorms dropping rain at a rate greater than 50mm/h, potentially intensifying the storm. Heavy rainfall is expected to cause flash floods and mudslides in affected regions, with up to 15 inches of rain predicted in some areas.
Researchers have developed a material that catalyzes the burning of methane 30 times better than currently available catalysts. The discovery could lead to a cleaner and cheaper way of generating energy from natural gas, potentially reducing emissions of powerful greenhouse gas.
Scientists have discovered that high iron levels can cause bowel cancer in people with a faulty gene, increasing the risk by two to three times. A diet low in iron prevents bowel cancer from developing altogether.
Researchers suggest that high-level construal, or categorizing events abstractly, can influence self-control by increasing sensitivity to broader implications of behavior. This can lead to greater consistency between values and actions.
The UIC study will compare two community-based health promotion programs for older adults with osteoarthritis, evaluating the effectiveness of adding a weight management component. Researchers aim to improve joint stiffness, pain, and function, as well as reduce anxiety and depression in participants.
The Technical University of Munich (TUM) is launching an internationally oriented career system with clear guidelines and transparent performance criteria for its 100 tenure track professorships. This system aims to recruit outstanding young researchers and provide them with real opportunities for upward career advancement.
A Johns Hopkins review of over 38,000 patient records reveals that weekend hospital stays are associated with a higher mortality rate for older adults with head trauma. Even among patients with less severe injuries, weekend admissions resulted in 14% higher death rates compared to weekday admissions.
Professor Michael Zemel's NuShape supplement increases fat oxidation by up to 300 calories a day, with participants maintaining 60-70% of initial weight loss over six months. NuControl promotes healthy blood sugar levels by converging on the same metabolic pathway as resveratrol.
Researchers developed a new prostate cancer screening method that combines drug therapy with changes in PSA levels to identify men with high-risk prostate cancer. The study showed that using PSA with these drugs can help differentiate between prostate cancer and benign disease, even in patients with difficult diagnoses.