A large-scale genome-wide association study found three genetic regions associated with lung cancer risk in Asian female never-smokers. The discovery provides evidence that common inherited genetic variants contribute to an increased risk of lung cancer among this population.
A study of 57 children and their families found that early life stress may sensitize girls' brains for later anxiety, with higher cortisol levels and reduced communication between brain areas associated with emotion regulation. The findings suggest a developmental pathway through which early stress may drive these changes.
Scientists have discovered a new method for identifying genes in animals, which could increase genetic information by 70-80%. This technique allows for direct observation of genes and proteins, enabling more efficient study of animal diseases and viruses.
A CSHL-led team has identified a novel gene, TERMINATING FLOWER (TMF), regulating the timing of flowering in plants. This discovery reveals a previously unknown pathway involved in the process, allowing plants to control flower production and increase agricultural yields.
A recent study found that individuals with glaucoma are at a higher risk of being involved in accidents due to their limited peripheral vision. The research recommends mandatory visual field testing for drivers to ensure road safety.
A study by University of Hawaii researchers found that future sea level rise will double previous predictions of flooding, with low-lying coastal areas vulnerable to 'groundwater inundation.' Groundwater levels near the surface threaten coastal communities more than previously thought.
Two studies highlight the strong indicators of vision problems in veterans with traumatic brain injury and stress disorder, including chronic vision disorders and dry eye syndrome. The studies found that these conditions can persist for years after the initial injury and may be more prevalent than previously recognized.
A team of researchers has identified two genetic factors behind facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy (FSHD), a rare form of inherited muscular dystrophy. The study found that a combination of genetic variants on chromosomes 4 and 18 cause the production of muscle-damaging toxins, leading to symptoms of the disease.
Research shows socially isolated animals produce less myelin in the prefrontal cortex, a region responsible for emotional and cognitive behavior. The study also found that social isolation disrupts oligodendrocyte cell development, leading to changes in gene transcription.
A new study by Columbia University researchers identifies two genetic networks affected in schizophrenia, which also show a connection to autism. The analysis reveals that many genes mutated in schizophrenia are organized into these networks, involved in processes like axon guidance and chromosomal modification.
Researchers identified a new mechanism allowing the toxic DUX4 protein to be produced in skeletal muscle, causing progressive muscle weakness. Mutations in the SMCHD1 gene cause chromatin relaxation, leading to DUX4 production.
A new report provides guidance on family involvement in serious case reviews following a child's death or serious injury due to abuse or neglect. The research explores personal experiences of professionals and families, making recommendations for best practice.
Researchers highlight underestimation of climate change's impact on cultural life, emphasizing importance of considering emotional well-being and community attachment in policy responses. The study shows that ignoring cultural factors can lead to ineffective responses and catastrophic consequences.
Scientists have found that Antarctic sea ice cover has increased, but with regional gains and losses offsetting each other. The changes are attributed to wind-driven changes in the Antarctic region, which affects both ice drift and air temperature.
Researchers have uncovered a system of active gas springs in the Haifa Bay seabed, at relatively shallow depths. The discovery poses significant ecological risks and highlights the need for thorough research to prevent infrastructure failures and mitigate climate change impacts.
A Mayo Clinic study finds that a primary treatment for wet macular degeneration is effective even in patients with macular traction problems. This breakthrough may help physicians not give up on treating such patients, and understand the need for more doses of medication.
Using LCLS at SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory, researchers successfully stripped most electrons from xenon atoms, creating a highly charged state. This discovery could aid in studying extreme states of matter or avoiding damage in samples.
A novel blood test detects and monitors brain cancer biomarkers using nanotechnology and NMR technology, offering a promising diagnostic tool for glioblastoma multiforme patients. The study demonstrates excellent detection accuracy and potential for quick results from small blood samples.
Researchers at EPFL have created a device that can transform light energy into clean fuel, neutral carbon footprint hydrogen, from sunlight, water, and metal oxides like iron oxide. The technology has great potential to enable economically viable methods for solar hydrogen production.
A new study by University of Pennsylvania researchers found that deleting the Arntl clock gene in fat cells causes mice to become obese due to a shift in eating timing. Supplementing with fish oil-like fatty acids can rescue this phenotype.
The new electrode is 10 times smaller than its competitors, with a conductive gel pad that cozies up to soft cell membranes, reducing inflammation and improving signal clarity. Long-term testing showed promise in stabilizing immune responses, paving the way for future brain-machine interfaces.
Researchers at Duke University have created a more efficient cloaking device by reducing reflections and increasing wave transmission. The new design uses a diamond-shaped pattern with copper strips to guide electromagnetic waves around an object, eliminating loss due to reflections.
Griffith University researchers have developed a device capable of amplifying the information in a single photon without adding noise, preserving quantum information. The breakthrough has far-reaching implications for quantum technologies, including improved quantum cryptography and long-distance communication.
Scientists from Michigan State University predict climate change will kill off swaths of bamboo, making prime panda habitat inhospitable by 21st century. The study suggests proactive planning to protect areas with suitable food sources and creating natural bridges for pandas to escape bamboo famine.
Researchers found that limiting carbohydrates to dinner reduced hunger scores, improved anthropometric outcomes, and lowered inflammatory markers in obese individuals. The innovative dietary pattern led to changes in hormonal secretion patterns favoring satiety and reducing metabolic risks.
Researchers discovered that wild birds were previously exposed to the West Nile virus before their arrival in Greece during autumn migration. The study found 14 positive serum samples from birds up to 8 months prior to the human outbreak, and genetic determinants of increased virulence were present in these samples.
A recent study found that digital tablets can significantly improve reading speed and comfort for people with moderate vision loss. Using a tablet with a back-lit screen resulted in the fastest reading speeds, with participants increasing their reading speed by 15 words-per-minute on average.
Using the world's most powerful X-ray laser, researchers observed an unprecedented charge state by ejecting dozens of electrons from a xenon atom. The discovery reveals new insights into heavy atoms and could have practical applications in research and industry.
A comprehensive report reveals that incarceration rates for African American males are a major contributor to health problems, substance abuse, and economic disparities. The study suggests that investing more resources in education and treatment could significantly reduce these costs and improve lives.
University of Utah medical researchers have identified a new pathway to block inflammation while minimizing the risk of infection, which could lead to more effective treatments for conditions like arthritis, diabetes, and traumatic brain injury. The discovery has vast potential for developing safer anti-inflammatory medicines.
The material combines a plastic polymer with nickel particles, allowing it to heal efficiently while maintaining conductivity. The researchers tested the material by cutting it multiple times, finding it could regain up to 75% of its strength within minutes.