A National Science Foundation-funded research team has discovered the remains of a camp used by explorers of the 'Heroic Age' of Antarctic exploration, dating back to 1912. The site was found using a combination of written accounts and historic images, matching an archival photograph from the Terra Nova expedition.
Researchers found that 40% of microbial biomass is converted to organic soil components, contradicting the long-held view that plant material is the primary source. The study discovered that bacterial cell wall fragments contribute significantly to soil fertility and carbon storage.
Approximately ten percent of 6 year olds have sleep-disordered breathing, with certain craniofacial morphology traits increasing the risk. Early intervention and diagnosis can prevent progression of the disease.
A new study found that drinker identity and brand allegiance are factors linking alcohol marketing and problematic drinking among experimental underage drinkers. Exposure to alcohol marketing is associated with both initiation and progression of alcohol use in youth.
A recent study suggests that consuming whole eggs can improve lipid profiles in individuals with metabolic syndrome, reducing triglycerides and increasing HDL cholesterol levels. Egg yolks are also a rich source of antioxidants and nutrients like vitamin D, choline, and lutein.
A new study found that individuals with high levels of negative emotionality may be more prone to problem drinking when sensitive to the stimulating effects of alcohol and other drugs. The research suggests that people who experience powerful negative moods may be motivated to drink excessively in search of immediate reward.
Researchers at AxoGlia Therapeutics and the Luxembourg Centre for Systems Biomedicine have received a grant to identify new neuroprotective therapeutic targets for Parkinson's disease. The project aims to disrupt the CD40/CD40-Ligand neuroinflammatory pathway, which could lead to new avenues for therapeutic interventions.
A Phase 2 clinical trial of ibrutinib in relapsed or refractory mantle cell lymphoma reported a 68% overall response rate and 22% complete remission rate, with few side effects. The drug's efficacy was consistent across different patient populations, making it a promising treatment option for patients with this aggressive disease.
A recent study by McLean Hospital and Harvard Medical School found that long-term users of anabolic-androgenic steroids experienced significant impairments in visuospatial memory, with scores declining noticeably with increasing lifetime AAS dose.
A new study suggests that rapid law enforcement notification and detailed public information can improve recovery rates for drivers with dementia. The research team recommends that Silver Alert-type programs prioritize the cognitive status of drivers and provide more detailed information to facilitate rescue efforts.
Researchers found a link between a specific gene variant and lower triglyceride levels, as well as higher HDL cholesterol. Carriers of the variant tend to have lower risk of cardiovascular disease, particularly when consuming more polyunsaturated fat.
Theoretical physicists at Rice University have predicted the formation of conductive sub-nanometer 'wires' in two-dimensional materials, which could lead to advanced electronics. The discovery was made by investigating atomic-scale properties and topological defects in semiconductors.
A study published in Schizophrenia Bulletin found that higher rates of schizophrenia are associated with increased deprivation, population density, and inequality in urban neighborhoods. The research suggests that more equal societies may experience lower rates of serious mental illness.
A 44-member international team is conducting a comprehensive survey of fly species in a tropical cloud forest in eastern Costa Rica. The project aims to identify at least 3,000 new species and contribute to understanding complex ecosystems and conservation efforts.
Researchers found altered gut microbiota in healthy subjects compared to stroke patients, with increased carotenoid-producing genes and higher blood levels. The study suggests a potential role for probiotics in preventing cardiovascular disease.
A fast-growing flesh-eating fungus, Apophysomyces, killed five people after a massive tornado devastated Joplin, Missouri. The fungus, usually harmless, can cause severe infections if not treated immediately, leading to rapid tissue destruction and organ failure.
A new study reveals that the mu opioid receptor genotype is associated with the pleasant and stimulating effects of alcohol, but not its sedative effects. Individuals with a specific mutation in this gene respond more strongly to alcohol's rewarding effects, which may help predict their risk of developing an alcohol use disorder.
Researchers at SDSU are analyzing the interaction between facial movements and speech-language development in children with cerebral palsy. They are using motion capture technology to collect data on mouth movements, which can help create more effective speech therapy techniques.
Pitt Cancer Institute researchers have identified over 125 genetic components in a chemotherapy-resistant, brain tumor-derived cell line that could offer new hope for drug treatment to destroy cancer cells. The findings may lead to the development of adjuvant chemotherapy drugs that will improve patient survival rates.
Scientists measured methanol molecule's radio spectrum in a distant galaxy, finding minimal change in proton-to-electron mass ratio over billions of years. The result confirms fundamental properties of molecules have remained consistent despite universe's evolution.
A new survey by the University of Iowa found that gambling rates among residents in eastern Iowa have decreased overall, with a rise in non-gamblers and a stabilization in problem gambler numbers. The study suggests that the number of casinos has not led to a corresponding increase in gamblers.
A new study suggests that maraviroc, an HIV treatment drug, could be effective in treating Staphylococcus aureus infections. The discovery was made through a serendipitous finding and further confirmed using mouse models, showing that blocking CCR5 receptor can help control the infection.
Physicists have demonstrated a new type of quantum entanglement using three particles, building on Einstein's original ideas. This experiment may lead to the creation of hybrid quantum systems with multiple unique properties.
Researchers calculate how cellulose in wood decomposes when heated, offering a new mechanism for converting farmed and waste wood into useful bio-oils. The findings could spur more effective and efficient ways of extracting energy from wood.
A team of researchers led by Drs. Marie Kmita and James Sharpe discovered the Turing-like mechanism responsible for generating human fingers and toes through genetic studies and mathematical modeling. The study reveals that Hox genes play a crucial role in modulating this mechanism, which is essential for proper limb development.
Stretchable electronics are being developed to enhance device durability and functionality. Bingqing Wei's research group has made significant progress in creating scalable, stretchable power sources for flexible electronics using carbon nanotube macrofilms, polyurethane membranes and organic electrolytes.
Researchers have elucidated the function of Translation Elongation Factor P (EF-P) during protein synthesis, revealing its role in regulating protein copy numbers in response to changing conditions. EF-P helps stalled ribosomes overcome a specific proline-rich motif, allowing for adjusted protein production.
A new screening approach identified potential anticancer drug combinations that target RAS and BRAF mutations in melanoma. The study found that pairing cholesterol-reducing drugs with cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitors showed efficacy against RAS-driven melanomas.
The new feature uses DNA inherited from all ancestors on both sides of the family to indicate an individual's ancestral origins. Ancestry Composition offers state-of-the-art detail for people with European ancestry and accurate breakdowns for individuals of mixed ancestry.
A speed limit on container ships near ports and coastlines could reduce emissions of carbon dioxide, nitrogen oxides, and soot by up to 60-70% compared to traditional cruising speeds. This measure could significantly protect the health of people living in coastal areas.
The study reveals that high blood pressure, tobacco smoking, and excessive alcohol consumption are the leading causes of death globally, with significant regional variations. Dietary factors and physical inactivity also contribute substantially to disease burden.
Tel Aviv University scientists discovered that lab mice do not actually experience chronic anxiety, but instead exhibit temporary responses to new environments. This finding could explain why most candidate drugs have poor therapeutic value in treating human brain disorders.
A study published in PLOS Pathogens found that immune cells from older adults can respond to virus infections similarly to those from younger individuals. This discovery has important implications for vaccination strategies targeting the elderly.
A recent study published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute found that proton radiotherapy provides minimal relief from side effects such as incontinence and erectile dysfunction compared to standard radiation treatment IMRT. The study revealed no long-term benefits for proton therapy, despite high costs.
A lack of accurate data on financial crime hampers efforts to tackle business fraud and tax evasion. Professor Michael Levi's research highlights the need for a more evidence-based approach to policing and addressing financial crimes.
Scientists have made significant breakthroughs in DNA nanotechnology by removing obstacles to design processes. They demonstrated the first validation of subnanometer-scale positional control and discovered a method for rapid folding and high-yield production of complex DNA-based objects, similar to protein folding.
Scientists at Northwestern University have identified a subset of immune cells called T-regulatory (Treg) cells in human colon cancer that can either protect against or promote tumor growth. The presence of the protein RORγt is key to this differentiation.
A new Australian study finds that large regions of the genome are epigenetically activated in prostate cancer, including genes like PSA and PCA3. The study also identifies 'epigenetic master controllers' that can switch on or off large regions of DNA, with significant implications for cancer diagnosis and treatment.
A study has identified two enzymes elevated in prediabetes that could lead to new therapies for vascular complications and help predict who is at risk of developing diabetes. Elevated arginase and indoleamine 2,3 dioxygenase trigger a stress response that damages blood vessels and immune cells.
Researchers found that consensus and cooperation are the norm within Congress, with most major programs renewed every 4-6 years. Manufactured crises like the 'fiscal cliff' often serve as catalysts for significant policy changes.
An international team of scientists has discovered a new species of slow loris in Borneo, recognizing four existing species as distinct from previously considered subspecies. The discovery highlights the need for urgent conservation efforts due to human activity threats and the pet trade.
Scientists at the University of Exeter discovered a new way viruses evolve to switch their behavior in response to other viruses infecting a host. This means that even with manipulation, viruses will always adapt to serve their own purposes and cause maximum destruction.
Researchers at Henry Ford Hospital have developed a new technique for minimally invasive robotic partial nephrectomy procedures, sparing the kidney and eliminating long hospital stays. The technique, called ICE, provides better outcomes by giving surgeons more time to perform the procedure and allows for better tumor removal and analysis.
Scientists have developed a new method for studying parasite numbers in individual seabirds in the wild, using endoscopy. The technique found that all birds had parasites ranging from low burdens of several worms to high burdens of over 40 worms, with higher burdens in males and late breeders.
A large European study found that multiple myeloma is related to farm work, printing and cleaning. The EPILYMPH study, which included 277 cases and matched controls by age and gender, found an increased risk for farmers, cleaning workers, telephone and radio operators.
A new study on mice suggests that common anesthetic agents like Nitrous Oxide and isoflurane can cause neuronal cell death and changes in gene expression in developing brains. The findings have implications for the use of anesthesia during pregnancy and childbirth.
A study published in Neuropsychopharmacology found a correlation between increased glutamate activity and suicidal behavior. Anti-glutamate drugs are being developed as a potential tool to prevent suicide.
Global life expectancy has increased by 11.1 years for men and 12.1 years for women since 1970. Notable gains in life expectancy have been observed in the Maldives, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Iran, and Peru. However, some countries, such as Haiti, Lesotho, Belarus, and Ukraine, have experienced significant declines due to various factors like...
A new hormone therapy combining conventional estrogen with a bone-protective SERM-like drug has shown promise in reducing menopausal symptoms and osteoporosis risk without increasing breast cancer risk. The treatment approach, termed TSEC, was tested in postmenopausal nonhuman primates over a 20-month period.
Scientists at the University of Liverpool found that male mice produce pheromone darcin, which provokes females and competitor males to remember a preference for its location. This allows them to recall sites with high concentrations of the scent, even after multiple encounters.
A new study suggests that human papillomavirus (HPV) infections in older women may represent reactivation of the virus, rather than a new infection. Nearly 90% of HPV infections were detected in women with multiple lifetime sexual partners, highlighting the need for further research on HPV persistence and reactivation.
Researchers at Worcester Polytechnic Institute and UMass Amherst studied the transport of bio-molecular complexes along microtubules. They found that motor proteins cooperate to minimize traffic jams, allowing cargos to travel farther before becoming detached.
A new computer model of the heart wall predicted risk of irregular heart rhythms and sudden cardiac death in patients with Long QT syndrome type 1. The model used 34 different mutations to calculate the consequences of genetic changes on the heart, revealing that delayed repolarization increases the risk of life-threatening events.
A University of Alberta researcher's findings may rewrite the history of humanity's migration out of Africa. The study uncovered fossils, artifacts, and evidence of continuous human occupation in the region dating back at least 200,000 years.
A new study using data from NASA's Swift satellite and Fermi Gamma-ray Space Telescope shows that high-speed jets launched from active black holes possess fundamental similarities regardless of mass, age or environment. The result provides a tantalizing hint that common physical processes are at work.
Researchers developed a method for Curiosity to use solar eclipses to determine its precise location on Mars, reducing positional error from kilometers to meters. The technique utilizes data from the rover's antennas and space probes, offering an independent alternative when direct communication with Earth is unavailable.
Sebastian Valanko's PhD thesis investigates dispersal strategies and mechanisms of benthic invertebrates, shedding light on their importance for recovery after disturbance. Understanding dispersal patterns is key to interpreting changes in diversity across different spatial scales, enabling better conservation and management decisions.
Researchers used infrared sensors and thermal technology to evaluate irrigation strategies in peach orchards. They found that midday canopy-to-air temperature differences were significantly higher in water-stressed trees, indicating the potential for effective management of water use.
The study reveals that musculoskeletal and mental behavioral disorders are the leading causes of disability worldwide. Lower back pain, depression, iron-deficiency anaemia, and neck pain were found to be among the top sequelae responsible for the greatest overall health loss in both 1990 and 2010.
A study published in Medical Care finds that negative news coverage of nursing homes outweighs positive stories by five to one. Negative articles often focus on negligence, fraud, or industry issues, while positive stories discuss quality of care and community impact.