The University of Houston has been selected as one of 10 universities nationwide to participate in the GENI project, which aims to shape the future of internet networking. The university will enable research innovations that will facilitate advanced research on network protocols and have a substantial impact on its competitiveness.
A 9-year study by UCSF researchers found that preventing or better managing diabetes can help prevent cognitive decline. The study linked the severity of diabetes to increased risk of cognitive decline and showed that patients with uncontrolled blood sugar levels suffered faster declines.
A new study of lake sediment cores from Sanak Island in the western Gulf of Alaska suggests that deglaciation occurred 1,500-2,000 years earlier than previously thought. This finding opens the door for re-evaluating coastal migration models for the Americas.
Researchers found striking similarities between Ethiopian and non-African genomes, suggesting a 3,000-year-old genetic exchange. This discovery supports the legend of the Queen of Sheba and her companions, providing insights into human evolution and cultural diversity.
Grammy-winning Maná leads a project proposing direct payment schemes for landowners in Mexico's La Primavera Forest, promoting conservation and biodiversity. The model aims to compensate citizens who benefit from the reserve's ecological services while reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
Researchers at UCLA have combined gene expression and peripheral blood analysis to identify potential precursors of autism. The study found strong links between genetic variations in specific regions of the genome and altered expression patterns in genes related to nervous-system function.
A new study emphasizes the importance of including parents in newborn screening programs for lysosomal storage diseases (LSDs), a group of rare metabolic disorders. The researchers argue that without parental consent, the 'all-or-nothing' constraint leads to inadequate informed decision-making.
Researchers have successfully trapped and controlled light within a graphene lattice, allowing for the development of computers with optical switches. This breakthrough demonstrates the high potential of graphene in nanoelectronics.
Magnetic toys with small, detachable parts pose a significant risk to young children's health. When multiple magnets are ingested, they can trap internal soft tissues and cause fistulas, leading to serious illness if left untreated. Parents are advised to be vigilant when giving their children such toys.
Weill Cornell researchers devise innovative boxer-like strategy to deliver one-two punch to multiple myeloma by weakening defenses and then killing cancer cells. The approach, using two anti-cancer drugs, shows potential for treating other tumor types.
Researchers at Emory University School of Medicine have identified a new class of anti-inflammatory compounds that inhibit the Nox2 enzyme, which produces reactive oxygen species. This approach may be more effective than traditional antioxidants in treating conditions like stroke, heart failure, and neurodegenerative diseases.
Autism Speaks releases three new tool kits to help parents manage challenging behaviors, improve communication and social skills. The kits provide guidance on applied behavior analysis, professional behavioral treatments and toilet training strategies.
The American Association for Thoracic Surgery task force recommends expanded lung cancer screening guidelines using low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) for high-risk individuals. The new guidelines increase the recommended age range to 79 and expand eligibility to smokers and former smokers with specific risk factors.
A recent study published in the Journal of Political Economy found that human capital endowments passed from father to son play a crucial role in determining a son's success. The researchers used detailed government data on Swedish fathers and sons to isolate differences in income due to factors other than human capital.
A new study by St. Michael's Hospital researchers found that fructose significantly improved blood sugar control in participants with Type 1 and 2 diabetes, comparable to oral antidiabetic drugs. The study also showed no negative effects on body weight, blood pressure, or cholesterol levels.
A Kansas State University researcher analyzed police data to find that black and Hispanic women are just as likely as white men to be ticketed or searched during a traffic stop. Black and Hispanic men were more likely to receive tickets or be searched, with significant disparities in outcomes.
This year's predicted dead zone size features a wide range of 1,197 to 6,213 square miles due to differences between two forecast models. The actual size will be released after monitoring surveys led by Louisiana Universities Marine Consortium.
The Aging Brain Care model, developed by Indiana University researchers, aims to deliver better health care to older adults through interdisciplinary care teams and personalized treatment plans. The expanded program is expected to reduce emergency department visits and hospitalizations among Medicare beneficiaries.
The newly discovered two-planet system of Kepler-36 features a rocky planet Kepler-36b and a gas giant Kepler-36c that experience close encounters every 97 days. Researchers are struggling to understand how these worlds ended up in such tight orbits, but the discovery has significant implications for the search for exoplanets.
Researchers at University of Calgary developed a biometric security system that combines different measurements like eye colour and fingerprints to create a learning system simulating the brain. The algorithm can learn new patterns and adapt to changing conditions, improving accuracy and recognition process.
The study of Lake El'gygytgyn sediment cores reveals extreme warm periods in the Arctic correspond with ice-free and warm times in Antarctica, linking the two hemispheres. The findings suggest additional climate feedbacks are at work and challenge current climate models.
A team of researchers discovered that human alpha-defensin 6 (HD6) forms 'nanonets' around microbial surfaces to disable microbes, providing clues to inflammatory bowel diseases like Crohn's disease. The study provides new insights into the body's innate defense system and its role in intestinal health.
Researchers at the University of Nevada School of Medicine review the impact of MG53 protein therapy as a treatment option for Duchenne muscular dystrophy. The study found that MG53 facilitates rapid membrane repair to prevent damage to normal muscle, suggesting potential synergy with other therapies.
Researchers at UC San Diego have identified a new signal transduction pathway in alternative RNA splicing, which could lead to novel cancer drugs. The SRPK kinase plays a central role in regulating VEGF and controlling tumor growth.
The Fogarty African Bioethics Training Program has been awarded a five-year continuation grant from the National Institutes of Health to continue training researchers and enhancing research ethics capacity in sub-Saharan Africa. The program has already trained numerous alumni who have become recognized international experts in bioethics.
A contingency management program significantly improves smoking reduction and abstinence in drug-dependent pregnant women. The study found that nearly half of the participants met a 75% reduction target and a third achieved total abstinence.
Research reveals that environmental estrogens, such as BPA and genistein, activate estrogen receptors in the heart valves of zebrafish embryos. This finding suggests that these compounds may have a critical role in early developmental stages, potentially leading to deleterious effects.
A pioneering study finds genetic changes that explain why one person has an autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and another does not. The research identifies potential new regions where copy-number variants are associated with ASDs and shows a significant impact of these variants on gene expression.
Hurricane Chris became the first storm of the Atlantic season to reach hurricane strength on June 21, 2012, with cloud top temperatures indicating strong thunderstorms and heavy rainfall. Forecasters expect it to weaken as it moves into stable air and cooler waters, eventually becoming a post-tropical cyclone.
The EUREAPA tool analyzes environmental impacts of different policies and scenarios, allowing policymakers to investigate how different policy changes affect future environmental pressures. It also helps track effects of decisions and ensure meeting of environmental goals.
Scientists at the University of Liverpool have developed methods to track stem cells in the body, improving understanding of their behavior after transplantation. They use superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles and advanced imaging systems to monitor stem cell movement and behavior.
Researchers found that children of neglectful parents spent an additional 30 minutes per week on screens, leading to increased sedentary behavior. Parents who actively played with their kids had the most impact in promoting active play.
Researchers have found a key molecule, REG3A, highly expressed in skin cells during psoriasis and wound repair, causing abnormal cell proliferation. Blocking REG3A delays wound healing and clears up psoriasis-like pathology in mice, offering potential therapeutic targets.
A Michigan State University study found that poor mothers produce fattier milk for their daughters than sons, supporting a 1973 hypothesis. In contrast, wealthy mothers prefer to invest resources in sons who are more likely to increase their status through marriage.
Recent research analyzed two Martian meteorites from within the Red Planet's interior, revealing a vast amount of water similar to Earth's. This discovery raises the possibility that Mars could have sustained life and suggests volcanoes as the primary vehicle for getting water to the surface.
Researchers at the University of Michigan Health System found that patients who receive a mid-urethral sling during prolapse repair have less than half the risk of urinary incontinence. The study suggests that inserting a sling during surgery can significantly reduce urine leakage, but also increases the risk of certain side effects.
A recent study found that mice carrying a set of friendly microbes fail to develop a proper immune system, highlighting the importance of host-specific microbiota. The researchers suggest that a coevolved relationship between humans and their gut microbiome may be compromised by modern lifestyle factors.
A new study reveals that women aged 50 and over experience common eating disorder behaviors and weight concerns. Nearly 8% report purging, and more than 70% are trying to lose weight. Weight or shape negatively impacts their life, with 62% claiming it has a significant impact.
Researchers have identified a molecule called regenerating islet-derived protein 3-alpha (REG3A) that is highly expressed in skin cells during psoriasis and wound-healing, but not under normal skin conditions. Inhibiting REG3A may clear up psoriasis and slow down wound-healing.
A research team has discovered two planets, Kepler-36b and Kepler-36c, in an orbital tug-of-war as they orbit the same star about 1,200 light years from Earth. The planets occupy nearly the same orbital plane and come within 1.2 million miles of each other at their closest approach.
Researchers at Nationwide Children's Hospital have created a new drug to target osteosarcoma, the most common bone tumor in children, using a modified version of Celebrex. The drug, 8A, selectively inhibits the STAT3 pathway, which is crucial for tumor formation and cancer progression.
A medium-chance tropical depression is possible in the south-central Gulf of Mexico, with NASA satellites providing key data on the area's low pressure. The system is expected to bring heavy rainfall and flooding to parts of Cuba, western Cuba, and southern Florida over the next couple of days.
A new type of paint made with carbon nanotubes can help detect strain in buildings, bridges, and airplanes. This method provides a big advantage over conventional strain gauges, which must be physically connected to their read-out devices.
Researchers found that cancers with disorganized traffic systems result in lower survival rates and are more difficult to treat. A mathematical equation could help doctors determine the best course of treatment by identifying the complexity of each cancer type.
Researchers at Winrock International developed a more accurate estimate of gross carbon emissions from tropical deforestation for the early 2000s. The study found that global emissions from deforestation were approximately one-third lower than previously published estimates, with Brazil and Indonesia accounting for 55% of total emissions.
Researchers at Moffitt Cancer Center say cancer's evolutionary principles hold the key to thwarting emergence of drug resistance. By anticipating and adapting to environmental forces, they propose developing 'adaptive therapies' to improve outcomes.
Researchers showcased the breadth of zebrafish research at an international conference, focusing on cancer and nicotine dependence. A study found that mid-differentiated cells play a key role in tumor growth, challenging traditional views on cancer stem cells. Another study used zebrafish to identify novel candidate genes involved in n...
Researchers at Brown University found that selenium nanoparticles can reduce Staphylococcus aureus bacteria on implant materials by up to 90%. The coating is more effective than current silver-based alternatives, which are less biocompatible and expensive.
A new study demonstrates the potential of natural language processing (NLP) to measure performance on colonoscopy quality measures. The NLP-based computer software application efficiently analyzed a large sample of colonoscopy reports, revealing clear variation in performance even within a highly regarded academic health care system.
Researchers deployed omics to track microbial responses to the Deepwater Horizon oil spill, finding a succession of microbes degrading different fractions of oil. The study revealed an abundance of genes involved in hydrocarbon degradation and identified the first deep-sea oil-eating bacterium.
Researchers at McGill University have discovered the genetic cause of double-cortex syndrome, a form of epilepsy that affects primarily females. The study found that disease-causing mutations disrupt teamwork between proteins necessary for brain cell skeleton construction, leading to malformation and seizures.
Researchers have extracted a sediment core from Lake El'gygytgyn in Siberia, revealing temperatures previously thought impossible for the Arctic Circle. The findings suggest a correlation between warm periods in the Arctic and large melting events in Antarctica, indicating previously unknown interactions between the Polar Regions.
A device used to prevent incontinence in women after pelvic-floor surgery shows promise, reducing symptoms but increasing side effects. Researchers suggest counseling women on risks and benefits prior to the procedure.
A three-month exercise program significantly improved lung transplant patients' health-related quality of life and reduced their risk of cardiovascular problems. The study found that patients who exercised had higher quadriceps muscle force, longer walking distances, and better physical functioning compared to those in the control group.
Scientists successfully created 'scaffolds' from pig kidneys to potentially build replacement kidneys for humans. The structure of the nephron was maintained, and blood vessels were able to maintain normal pressure when re-filled with blood in animal models.
Research in southeastern Mongolia reveals evidence of ocean basin collapse, while placer mining in British Columbia affects river geometry. New fossil discoveries in Algeria shed light on early mammal evolution.
Researchers from the University of Cambridge found that avian H5N1 influenza viruses could potentially acquire mutations necessary for airborne transmission in nature. The study suggests that with as few as five mutations, or four mutations plus reassortment, these viruses can become airborne transmissible between mammals and humans.
Autism Speaks has awarded nearly $2.9 million in funding to support autism research projects addressing various high-priority areas. These include investigating the impact of DSM-5 on autism diagnosis, developing new medications and behavioral treatments, and improving access to early intervention in minority communities.
A Stanford-led study found that short-term stress stimulates immune activity, mobilizing key cells to fight infections and wounds. The research offers hope for developing new treatments to improve recovery from surgery or vaccines.
Researchers at NIST and University of Maryland successfully created graphene quantum dots by manipulating the strain in graphene drumheads. By controlling the tension on the drumhead, they mimicked magnetic fields and created semiconducting regions with a band gap, crucial for computing and other applications.
Astronomers have found two planets with diverse densities and compositions locked in close orbits, defying the planetary pattern of our solar system. The discovery, made possible by NASA's Kepler Mission, reveals a 'puzzling pair' that challenges theories on planet migration and orbital rearrangement.
Experts discuss the science underlying ecosystem services markets, weighing benefits against potential unintended consequences for non-target ecosystem attributes. The symposium aims to address tough questions about how to measure and value nature's services.
Scientists at the University of Exeter have identified a specialized group of proteins called septins in plant infection for the first time. The discovery sheds light on how the rice blast fungus channels its pressure to form an infection peg that breaches the rice leaf surface, enabling it to infect rice tissue.
A comprehensive study of 1,628 Danish children found no adverse effects of moderate alcohol consumption on their IQ, attention span, or executive functions. The research provides important new information for pregnant women and health professionals, suggesting that small amounts of alcohol are unlikely to harm the unborn child.
Researchers at The Ottawa Hospital have found a protein in the blood of pregnant women that can predict if they are likely to have a fetus with growth restrictions, leading to stillbirth and long-term health complications. A widely available blood test could help develop ways to improve outcomes for women and their children.
The study discusses the biology of tumor-derived microvesicles and their clinical application as circulating biomarkers. Microvesicles released by tumor cells may provide a unique biosignature for individual cancers, enabling early detection and targeted therapies.
Researchers developed a new swab technique that can spot tuberculosis in non-human primates with no outward signs of disease. The method has been successfully tested on Asian monkey populations, revealing a significant prevalence rate and potential for primate-to-primate transmission.
A University of Tennessee professor has received $300,000 in funding from the US Department of Energy to develop High-Entropy Alloys for improved structural materials. The goal is to enhance efficiency in coal-fired power plants, reducing carbon footprint and lowering fuel costs.
Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania have gained insight into how phase change materials switch between states, a key step towards creating universal memory storage devices. By using nanowires, they were able to observe the phase change in real-time and discovered a new mechanism that could lead to more efficient memory devices.
NASA satellite data shows Tropical Depression Talim's thunderstorms becoming disorganized as it interacts with Taiwan and a nearby frontal system. The depression is expected to dissipate later today due to these factors.
Researchers at Mayo Clinic discovered an association between Olmesartan and severe gastrointestinal issues. Patients taking the medication exhibited symptoms similar to celiac disease, but without typical test results or response to gluten-free diets.
A new mouse model has been developed to study supertasting, a condition where people strongly detect food flavors like bitter and sweet. The model, which overexpresses brain-derived neurotrophic factor, may provide insights into the protective cardiovascular effects of avoiding sweet and fatty foods.
Researchers at Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center have developed a new candidate drug, Rhosin, that inhibits breast cancer cell growth and promotes the growth of nerve cells. The drug targets RhoA, a key component of a cell signaling protein complex involved in various cancers and neurologic disorders.
Researchers in the Yangtze basin region have created a long-term record of ecosystem health, measuring past condition and predicting future trends. The study highlights the decline in ecosystem services due to intensive farming techniques, posing a threat to local livelihoods.
Engineers at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee have developed a catalyst that provides similar efficiency to platinum in microbial fuel cells but at 5% of the cost. The material, nitrogen-enriched iron-carbon nanorods, has potential for replacing platinum catalysts in hydrogen-producing microbial electrolysis cells.
The First Responder Support Tools (FiRST) application provides critical information to first responders in bomb threat scenarios, including safe distances, roadblock analysis and HAZMAT response guidance. The app is available for smartphones and laptops and can be used by anyone responding to a potential bomb or HAZMAT spill.
Research suggests that top predators play a crucial role in extinction risk, as they can amplify the effects of climate change on other species. Studying these biotic multipliers and their interactions with other species is essential to improve predictions of climate change impacts.
A team of scientists used elephant seal data to gather direct measurements on Fimbul Ice Shelf melting, revealing parts are melting at lower rates than predicted. The study confirms a 20-year-old theory about ice shelf melting and provides insights into water circulation and temperature changes in eastern Antarctica.
A new study by Rice University and the University of Colorado at Boulder found that US life expectancy has stagnated over the past century, with the poorest citizens living approximately five years less than more affluent persons. The study also found that despite moderate gains in coming years, the US still trails its developed counte...
Researchers found cheetahs' longer strides and faster stride frequencies allow them to reach high speeds, while greyhounds maintain a constant stride rate. The study suggests wild cheetahs may be able to outstrip their captive cousins due to biomechanical differences.
A new study published in Brain found that multiple sclerosis patients have a lower overall cancer risk, with significant reductions in colorectal cancer risk. While brain and bladder cancer risks were slightly elevated, MS patients with relapsing-onset disease had higher non-melanoma skin cancer risk.
The overall winner of the Wellcome Image Awards is a visceral photograph of a living human brain, showcasing its beauty and fragility. The image, taken during a surgical procedure to treat epilepsy, highlights the importance of medical photography in helping doctors make diagnoses.
Three SFU scientists, engaged in collaborative research on conservation and ecology, critique the federal government's proposal to reduce fish habitat protection. They argue that current policies suffice for protecting fish habitat, contrary to assertions from the federal fisheries minister.
Researchers at University of North Carolina Health Care have discovered a new role for the SMN gene in spinal muscular atrophy, contradicting previous assumptions. The study suggests that faulty processing of genetic material is not the primary cause of the disease, but rather a separate function of the SMN gene.
CYGNSS will study tropical cyclones' formation and intensification by analyzing ocean surface properties, atmospheric thermodynamics, and radiation. The mission aims to advance hurricane forecasting and tracking methods.
A new study reveals intense warm intervals in the Arctic over the past 2.8 million years, corresponding closely with times when parts of Antarctica were ice-free and also warm. The findings suggest strong inter-hemispheric climate connectivity and imply that the polar regions are more vulnerable to change than previously thought.
The guidelines provide evidence-based information for diagnosing and managing non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, which is rapidly becoming the most common cause of cirrhosis in the US. The condition can lead to liver cancer and failure, emphasizing the need for standardized medical care.
A new study reports that human microbes have coevolved with humans, forming unique partnerships essential for our immune system. The findings suggest that modern hygiene and antibiotics may be contributing to the rise of autoimmune disorders by erasing these beneficial bacteria.