Scientists propose that early life forms utilized deep-sea hydrothermal vents to harness energy, driving the emergence of complex cellular structures. The new theory explains why all living organisms conserve energy in the form of ion gradients across membranes.
A retrospective analysis of over 36,000 patients with colon cancer found that those with early stage disease and diabetes or high blood pressure have a greater risk for cancer return and death compared to patients without these conditions. High lipid levels were also found to be protective against recurrence.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins University have developed a method to control the fate of human stem cells, producing two types of smooth muscle cells necessary for building tiny networks of veins and arteries. This breakthrough could lead to new treatments for heart disease, diabetes, and cancer.
Retaining certain compounds normally excreted by the kidneys can cause insulin resistance in kidney disease patients. Treating mice with a prebiotic reduces these compound levels, preventing insulin resistance and related lipid abnormalities.
Researchers have identified five small wasp species that directly attack the younger life stages of the pine wood nematode vector Monochamus galloprovincialis. The study, published in ZooKeys, highlights the potential for these tiny insects to control a major pest affecting southwest Europe pine stands.
A new study by Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health reveals that primary care physicians feel unprepared to address obesity due to inadequate medical education. Despite this, they support additional training and practice-based changes to improve their skills. Key findings include the importance of nutritionists and dietitian...
PNNL has been honored with three 2013 Excellence in Technology Transfer awards for developing innovative technologies such as redox flow batteries for renewable energy storage, radiogel products for targeted radiation therapy to fight cancer, and Ion Mobility Spectrometers for explosives detection. These technologies are expected to be...
Researchers at Virginia Tech Carilion Research Institute invent a way to directly image biological structures at their most fundamental level, providing a gateway to understanding dynamic systems in structural biology. The technique has successfully imaged viruses and other biological structures in their natural environments.
A research team led by Professor Zamaneh Kassiri has discovered that boosting TIMP3 levels can prevent the development of abdominal aneurysms. The study found that a protein called MMP2, despite being a contributor to heart and vascular disease, did not cause aneurysms when combined with TIMP3 deficiency.
Women deficient in vitamin D early in pregnancy are more likely to deliver babies with lower birth weights. Maternal vitamin D deficiency may impact fetal growth by reducing calcium absorption and glucose production, leading to a higher risk of small for gestational age births.
A study on Arabidopsis thaliana reveals its genetic diversity can help crops adapt to environmental stresses. Dr. Sarah Assmann explores the plant's ability to tolerate climate change, drought, and poor soils.
A recent study published in PLOS Genetics found a specific set of genes interacting to regulate pain sensitivity in humans. The research used exome sequencing to analyze DNA samples from individuals with varying levels of pain sensitivity, revealing distinct patterns of genetic variants in each group.
Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute is establishing a fellowship in astrobiology thanks to a $480,000 gift from the Emily Landecker Foundation. The James P. Ferris Fellowship will support graduate students pursuing research in the interdisciplinary field of astrobiology.
Researchers from the Institute of Solid State Physics found that superconductivity is intrinsic to a bismuth-based layered material when doped with silver. The material's characteristics were measured using x-ray diffraction, magnetic susceptibility, electrical transport, and thermal transport.
Scientists studying a rare meteorite from the outer asteroid belt discovered it has a unique, diverse composition, shedding light on the asteroid's surface processes. The Sutter's Mill meteorite is an ideal sample for preparing cosmochemists for upcoming space missions.
Researchers identified ADF and cofilin as crucial proteins in the shape change of young brain cells, enabling them to develop connections with other cells. The study found that these proteins facilitate neurite formation, which is essential for brain development and regeneration.
Researchers found that microRNA-26a suppresses melanoma cell growth while leaving healthy cells unharmed. Reintroducing microRNA-26a to melanoma cell lines led to a marked decrease in cancer cell survival, suggesting it as a potential therapeutic target for melanoma treatment.
A new study reveals that motivation and study skills, not intelligence, are key to long-term growth in math achievement. Students who were intrinsically motivated, used effective learning strategies, and avoided rote learning showed more growth in math ability.
The Higgs boson's detection completes the standard model of particle physics, where particles interact with a Higgs field to obtain mass. Researchers used a $5.5-billion-dollar atom-smasher and two massive particle detectors to spot the elusive boson.
A study found that peacock courtship calls attract distant females, suggesting a potential advantage for males in securing mates. The calls may serve as a form of advertising, warning predators of the male's vulnerability and increasing his attractiveness to females.
Researchers identify protein kinase Akt as a regulator of cancer stem cell biology, linking its hyperactivation to cancer resistance. The findings suggest that targeting Akt could be a new approach for killing cancer stem cells in cancer therapy.
Researchers at U of T discovered a major source of evolutionary differences among species by analyzing hundreds of thousands of genetic messages in equivalent organs across 10 different vertebrate species. Alternative splicing has dramatically changed the structure and complexity of genetic messages during vertebrate evolution.
Researchers investigated five cell types in CNS transplantation, finding none showed significant repair benefits. Despite differences in immune responses, only a few cells survived, highlighting the need for further research to better understand cell graft induced tissue damage.
Researchers at the University of Georgia have identified a new target for stroke treatments using candesartan, which increases brain-derived neurotrophic factor and stimulates angiogenesis. This approach has the potential to improve recovery outcomes for stroke patients and may also benefit veterans with traumatic brain injuries.
Researchers found a compound called ebselen effectively inhibits the thioredoxin reductase system in Helicobacter pylori, which causes gastric ulcers, and Mycobacterium tuberculosis, which causes tuberculosis. Ebselen's mechanism targets bacteria lacking glutathione.
Researchers used brain imaging technique to examine patterns of brain connectivity in adults with chronic back pain and without. They found specific brain regions became less connected, predicting worsening chronic pain, suggesting potential biomarker for chronic pain perception.
The JAMA Network has announced new titles for its specialty journals, including JAMA Pediatrics, JAMA Neurology, and JAMA Internal Medicine. Starting January 1, 2013, these journals will have a new embargo schedule, with content available on the For the Media site at specific times.
Researchers have identified a new drug target, 4'-Phosphopantetheinyl Transferase PptT, which is essential for Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) growth and survival. This discovery offers hope for the development of new TB treatments that can shorten treatment duration and combat drug-resistant strains.
Researchers have discovered 33 new species of trapdoor spiders in the American Southwest, adding to the genus Aptostichus, which now contains 40 species. The newly described species inhabit various habitats across California, from coastal sand dunes to alpine environments.
Columbia University researchers have created the first-ever atlas of immune cells in the human body, providing a unique view of T lymphocyte distribution and function. The study found that T cells are highly compartmentalized, with each tissue having its own complement of T cells.
Researchers have successfully transplanted genetically modified adipose cells into mice with liver disease, demonstrating their potential as a therapy. The study used bioluminescent imaging to track the cells' migration and engraftment in the liver, revealing their ability to persist for up to two months.
A brain imaging study found that THC, the psychoactive ingredient in cannabis, reduces the emotional reaction to pain but does not reduce the intensity of pain. The study suggests that individual responses to cannabis-based pain relief may vary greatly.
A recent study by Vall d'Hebron Institute of Oncology has led to the redefinition of hormone-sensitive breast tumours, improving diagnosis and treatment outcomes. Gene expression analysis revealed discrepancies between histopathological data and molecular profiles, prompting a new definition that incorporates progesterone receptor levels.
Researchers discovered that embryo growth is controlled by oscillating gene expression in neighboring cells, resulting in well-proportioned animals. The speed of this wave determines the size of future vertebrae, with faster waves indicating larger vertebrae.
Researchers sequenced the genomes of two bat species to understand genetic mechanisms underlying flight and immunity. The study found unique changes in genes related to DNA damage repair and innate immune system, which may have evolved to minimize negative effects of reactive oxygen species generated during flight.
A University of Missouri study found that conflicts over personal space and fairness are associated with higher anxiety and depression in adolescents. Parents can use household rules such as knocking before entering a sibling's room to resolve disputes and promote healthy psychological development.
A new study found that six months of steroid treatment didn't reduce relapse rates or side effects in children with nephrotic syndrome, challenging previous assumptions about optimal treatment strategies. The research highlights the need for new treatment strategies to prevent frequent relapses in this disease.
Researchers at Aldrich Materials Science have discovered a liquid-free process to design Metal Organic Frameworks (MOFs), enabling the production of high-purity MOF products suitable for sensors, detectors, and electronic/magnetic materials. The discovery extends to new classes of 3D-structured materials with unique properties.
The World Allergy Organization Journal is transitioning to BioMed Central's open access publishing platform, increasing global accessibility to allergy research. This move aims to improve knowledge-sharing and dissemination of research in the field of allergy, asthma, and clinical immunology.
Researchers demonstrate Anderson localization of light for the first time, showing waves no longer spread if defects are within one wavelength apart, exceeding previously thought threshold.
Researchers have shown that even in disordered structures, photons can sense and coordinate their travel through a medium. This is due to the wave properties of photons, which allow them to interact with each other. By analyzing these interactions, valuable insight into complex microscopic structures can be gained.
Researchers developed a new testing reaction to identify active agents in mixtures of hundreds of substances. They found two compounds, cepafungin I and glidobactin A, which inhibit the proteasome, causing cancer cells to suffocate on their own waste.
A new study reveals that clay minerals cover a larger portion of Mars than previously thought, including areas around Eagle crater and Endeavour Crater. Researchers believe clays could have formed early on when the planet's waters were more alkaline.
The use of virtual reality (VR) and robotic technologies is expanding in neurosurgery, providing opportunities for training, planning, and performance. However, significant technical and economic challenges must be overcome before these technologies become widely used.
A recent study published in Cell reveals that genetic mutations in 'hotspots' are more frequent in genes linked to autism and other disorders, providing new insights into their causes. Researchers found that these regions exhibit higher mutation rates, potentially leading to disruptions in gene function.
Researchers at UC Davis study a rare meteorite, the fastest and rarest known to hit Earth, providing insights into the formation of planets. The team uses advanced techniques to analyze the meteorite's composition and internal structures.
A new study using anonymous cellphone data reveals that canceling the trips of select drivers from carefully selected neighborhoods can reduce congestion significantly, with a potential 18% reduction in travel time for all other drivers.
Researchers at the University of Florida have discovered nearly 50 new species of leaf-mining moths in the Congo, doubling the number previously known from the region. The moths have unusual survival strategies and some species can delay plant aging.
Researchers at Georgetown University Medical Center found that a protein disposal system issue is the root cause of both ALS and FTD. Delivering parkin genes to neurons can slow down disease progression. The study challenges dogma on TDP-43 accumulation in cytoplasm, suggesting it's not always bad.
Cyclone Evan has been blown apart by strong wind shear, a rare and devastating occurrence for the region. The storm's remnants were captured by NOAA's GOES-15 satellite on December 20, revealing the extreme impact of wind shear on its structure.
A Korean research team successfully produced 5-aminovaleric acid and glutaric acid using metabolically engineered Escherichia coli. The study demonstrates the first microbial process for producing these C5 platform chemicals, showcasing the potential for sustainable production of chemicals and plastics.
Researchers analyzed cellphone and GPS data to identify areas contributing most to traffic bottlenecks. Canceling trips from these neighborhoods can reduce travel time for other drivers by up to 18%. This strategy shows promise for alleviating traffic tie-ups in urban areas, particularly in cities with complex commute patterns.
Barbara Gilchrest, a renowned dermatologist at Boston University School of Medicine, has been elected as a 2012 Charter Fellow of the National Academy of Inventors. She is being honored for her prolific spirit of innovation in creating outstanding inventions that have improved quality of life and economic development.
Researchers found that Italian wolves primarily consume wild boar, accounting for two-thirds of their diet, with roe deer making up around a third. The study suggests that wolves prefer wild boar even when roe deer densities are high, indicating a strong preference for this prey.
A new study on the Sutter's Mill meteorite suggests that asteroid surfaces are more complex than previously thought, with a diverse mixture of rocks and minerals. The research, published in Science, used advanced imaging techniques to analyze the meteorite's mineralogy and structure, revealing unexpected diversity and complexity.
Researchers have discovered a rapid and reliable test using next-generation real-time PCR systems to detect Shiga toxin-producing E. coli in ground beef. This new method is expected to increase food safety by providing faster, easier, and more reproducible results.
A study found that autism genes are more prone to mutation hotspots, contributing to disease risk. The researchers used whole-genome sequencing on monozygotic twins with autism and their parents, identifying clusters of nucleotide substitutions in specific parts of the genome.
A new NIH-funded study shows that inexpensive education efforts can increase safe use of clot-busting drug tPA at local hospitals, improving stroke care. Community hospitals across Michigan saw a significant improvement in tPA use rates after receiving educational support and round-the-clock treatment assistance.
Researchers from the West Antarctic Ice Sheet Divide, Whillans Ice Stream Subglacial Access Research Drilling, and Pine Island Glacier projects have reached significant technological milestones, advancing cutting-edge research on life in extreme ecosystems, ice sheet fate, and abrupt global climate-change events. Innovative drilling te...
The University of Copenhagen's researchers have produced a next-generation map depicting the organization of life on Earth, combining evolutionary and geographical information for over 20,000 species. The new map shows 11 large biogeographic realms and has major conservation significance in light of the ongoing biodiversity crisis.
Researchers at Northwestern University and UVA develop novel process to produce ethylene from methane using sulfur as a 'soft' oxidant. The conversion process uses sulfide catalysts to limit over-reaction of methane, producing hydrocarbon fragments that react to form ethylene.
Researchers at George Washington University studied piranhas to measure their biting forces, revealing that even smaller prey is not safe from their powerful attacks. The black piranha has the most powerful bite force among fish, with some specimens exerting over 30 times their body weight.
Researchers at the Kimmel Cancer Center at Jefferson developed diagnostic and prognostic genetic tests to better predict prostate cancer survival outcomes. The tests distinguish clinically-relevant cancers from normal prostate tissue in men with elevated PSA levels, offering a superior alternative to existing gene tests and the Gleason...
A study of 900 Spanish consumers found that country of origin is the most important factor when buying fish, with Spain being the preferred choice. The majority of respondents prefer wild fish and fresh products, highlighting a trend towards domestic consumption.
GEOLOGY articles reveal high-resolution images of Mercury's surface, further study of giant gypsum crystals in Naica Cave, and the provenance of North Atlantic ice-rafted debris. The publication also covers various geophysical studies, including the impact of the Galápagos hotspot on the East Pacific Rise.
A new paper in Cell Reports found that paused RNA polymerase plays a crucial role in regulating gene expression during embryonic development. The study revealed that the paused state is regulated over time rather than by tissue type, and that proteins called Polycomb group help keep it in check.
A preclinical study found that androgen deprivation therapies may have adverse effects on prostate cancer growth and survival in men with precancerous conditions. The study's results suggest that reducing testosterone levels may encourage indolent tumors to become more aggressive as men age.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine have developed a new way of analyzing standard MRI scans to accurately measure blood-brain barrier damage in stroke victims. This could lead to better treatment outcomes and reduced risk of complications from clot-dissolving drugs, known as tPA.
A new study reveals cultural and social factors that hinder minority participation in stem cell donation, leading to lower patient success rates. Minority donors are more likely to opt-out due to concerns about health complications and mistrust of the medical system.
Researchers at the University of Adelaide discovered that dragonflies can lock onto one visual target while ignoring others, a phenomenon similar to selective attention in humans. This finding has significant implications for neuroscience and engineering applications.
Scientists have created a statistical explanation for why some things are harder for the brain to learn than others by studying songbirds. They found that adult birds correct small errors in their songs more rapidly and robustly than large errors, which may help develop human behavioral therapies for vocal rehabilitation.
A new study found that heart calcium scans can identify people with Type 2 diabetes at high risk for developing potentially fatal cardiovascular disease, as well as those at low risk. The test can help doctors provide more effective treatments and improve outcomes by diagnosing a precise risk level.
A recent fMRI study published by David Eagleman in Frontiers found that ordinal sequences, such as numbers, have a strong spatial quality and stimulate less brain activity than non-ordinal sequences. This suggests that the brain can predict and process familiar sequences more efficiently, leading to reduced neural activity.
Researchers discovered rare genetic variants in genes related to blood pressure regulation also influence sensitivity to pain. The study suggests existing blood pressure treatments could be used to control chronic pain, offering a new approach to pain relief.
The loss of hemlock trees due to exotic pests and pathogens has an unexpected benefit: it allows hardwood species to thrive by releasing phosphorus into the soil. However, this shift also leads to increased nitrogen leaching from the soil, which can harm aquatic organisms.
A new study found that placing juvenile offenders in jobs without ensuring they attend school may make them more antisocial. Researchers studied 1,350 serious juvenile offenders and found that those who worked long hours and didn't attend school had the greatest risk of antisocial behavior.
Researchers identify novel enzyme involved in β-1,4-galactan production, which can be used to engineer plants for increased biofuel efficiency. The study reveals a family of proteins named GT92 that play a crucial role in pectin synthesis.
The Landsat 8 satellite, part of a 40-year record of change measurement from space, will continue to observe the planet in critical sectors like energy and water management. The satellite carries advanced instruments for land observation, including thermal imaging and coastal monitoring.
A 10-year follow-up study shows promising outcomes for patients who received gene therapy to rebuild their blood vessels. The five- and 10-year survival rates were comparable to those of patients treated with traditional medical therapy, with some cases showing improved outcomes.
A new study published in Child Development found that low-income teenagers with supportive role models and adaptive coping strategies have lower levels of an inflammatory marker for cardiovascular risk. Researchers from Northwestern University and the University of British Columbia discovered that these adolescents showed improved phys...
Patients who quit smoking and took aspirin and statin before undergoing treatment for blocked leg arteries were less likely to suffer complications six months later. The study found that more than half of patients studied failed to receive minimal medical therapy, despite doctors' efforts.
Researchers at Scripps Florida have developed a new method to alter RNA function in living cells by designing molecules that recognize and disable disease-associated RNAs. This approach has the potential to treat genetic disorders such as myotonic dystrophy, which can cause muscle wasting and other symptoms.
A research team has developed a new whole-plant strategy to combat malarial drug resistance, utilizing Artemisia annua and potentially reducing treatment costs. The approach shows promise in treating malaria with a higher chance of success than current modes, offering a locally grown and processed option for fighting the disease.
Researchers at Gladstone Institutes mapped CMV's molecular mechanism to understand its successful infection. The 'accelerator circuit' helps maintain optimal levels of toxic IE2 protein.
Two novel treatments for retinitis pigmentosa have shown promising results in mouse models, with stem cell grafts improving vision and gene therapy restoring photoreceptor cells. The treatments aim to provide a potentially unlimited supply of cells and offer an alternative to immunosuppression.
Researchers sequenced bat genomes to find similarities with human genes, potentially leading to disease prevention strategies. The study found novel genes in bats that help deal with toxins produced by flight, which may also influence ageing and cancer.
Researchers at the University of Jyvaskyla have solved two acute problems in chemical catalysis using a novel intramolecularly assisted catalyst for beta amino acid synthesis. They also identified a new mechanism for the amine-catalysed Michael addition reaction between aldehydes and nitroalkenes.
Researchers found a significant association between regional hypermutability and autism in monozygotic twins. The study also discovered that paternal age accounts for a substantial portion of variability in mutation rates, while maternal age has no significant effect.
Researchers at Worcester Polytechnic Institute and UMass have developed a whole plant therapy using Artemisia annua, delivering 40 times more artemisinin to the blood than purified artemisinin. This could significantly lower the cost of treating malaria and expand access to antimalarial therapy.
Researchers used advanced microscopy to track telomere movement in real-time throughout the cell cycle, finding they move to the outer edge of the nucleus after duplication. This reorganization may help maintain correct gene expression profiles and influence aging and cancer development.
A nationwide prospective cohort study found that offspring of cancer patients diagnosed at older ages are still at higher risk of developing the same cancer. The study suggests a significant genetic component to familial risks, with increased risks observed for various cancers including non-Hodgkin lymphoma, breast, and prostate cancer.
Researchers have created new biocatalysts using the power of protein engineering and evolution, allowing nature's premier oxidation catalyst to drive synthetically useful reactions. This breakthrough enables the production of pharmaceutical drugs and natural products in a more efficient and environmentally friendly manner.
Researchers at MIT have discovered a new type of magnetism called quantum spin liquid, which exhibits constant magnetic orientation fluctuations resembling those of molecules in a true liquid. The discovery has significant implications for data storage and communications technologies.
Researchers have successfully developed the world's first peel-and-stick thin-film solar cells, vastly expanding the potential applications of solar technology. The breakthrough allows for flexible and decal-like solar panels that can be attached to various surfaces without losing efficiency.
Researchers at USC's Keck School of Medicine found that liver mitochondria in mice improve and increase after chronic alcohol feeding, suggesting a possible mechanism for liver damage. The study's findings could help pinpoint targets for therapy if observed in human mitochondria.
A large-scale study on newborn screening for fragile X syndrome reveals the high prevalence of the premutation allele among carriers. The research identifies one in 209 females and one in 430 males with the premutation, highlighting the need for better understanding of its impact on families and systems.
A new urine test using protein biomarkers may enable early diagnosis and treatment of Kawasaki disease, a rare but increasingly prevalent condition that can cause inflammation of blood vessels and lead to heart attacks. The test has shown promising results in distinguishing children with Kawasaki disease from those with other conditions.
Researchers found that iron oxide nanoparticles can effectively label human endothelial cells for in vivo magnetic resonance tracking. However, high concentrations of INOPS can induce cell death and affect cell activity.
UT Southwestern researchers identified microRNA miR-15 as a regulator of the heart's ability to regenerate, with potential therapeutic applications. By understanding this molecular mechanism, scientists may be able to control the heart's regenerative process and develop new treatments for cardiovascular disease.
A recent study published in Genome Biology analyzed Clostridium difficile genomes from 486 patients to investigate transmission. The results indicate that transmission between patients occurs at relatively low frequency, with most cases attributed to specific strains.
Researchers have discovered a higher frequency of the fragile X genetic defect in newborns than previously believed, with an estimated prevalence of 1 in 200 females and 1 in 400 males. The study's findings suggest that large-scale newborn screening for the defect is technically feasible using blood spots from infant heel pricks.
Children with better language skills as toddlers tend to express less anger in preschool. They use strategies like seeking support and distracting themselves to manage frustration. This study found that developing language skills predicts later anger regulation.
Teens who fight with siblings over equality and fairness issues are more depressed a year later, while those who fight about personal space issues have lower self-esteem. Younger brothers with older brothers and girls with brothers experience more anxiety, leading to lower self-esteem.
The Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School has received significant funding to expand its family planning initiatives, aiming to increase resources and political commitment for quality programs. The Advance Family Planning initiative will focus on nine countries, improving access to and use of family planning services, information, and supplies.