A new study found that compounds in the arcea nut can directly cause DNA damage and increase the risk of oral cancer in betel quid users. The substances, present in amounts sufficient to cause harm, were discovered through research published in Chemical Research in Toxicology.
Scientists at Scripps Research Institute found that drastically reducing VEGF activity in the retina can cause severe vision loss. Deleting the VEGF gene from adult mice revealed its crucial function in maintaining retinal health. Further studies are necessary to determine the effects of anti-VEGF drugs on patients.
ARS scientists bred yellow potatoes with enhanced carotenoid levels, doubling their nutritional value compared to Yukon Gold. The new varieties have shown promise in improving eye health by protecting against age-related macular degeneration and cataract formation.
A new method developed by scientists can detect adulteration in premium dairy products like buffalo mozzarella. The test successfully identified fake products containing cow, goat, and sheep milks, revealing the industry's widespread problem of counterfeiting.
A new study by Juliana Fernandes found that negative political ads work best when presented in moderation, allowing voters to process information carefully. The study revealed that larger time intervals between ad repetitions disfavor the target candidate, making it harder for them to be seen as unfavorable.
The MASTER trial found that mesh-covered stents demonstrated improved restoration of blood flow compared to bare-metal or drug-eluting stents in heart attack patients undergoing angioplasty. The study showed a higher rate of ST-segment resolution with the new stent.
Research reveals that partial sleep deprivation affects ghrelin and leptin levels, leading to increased energy intake and potential weight gain. The study suggests a possible link between sleep patterns and body weight regulation.
Researchers are developing new medications and oral immunotherapy to treat food allergies, such as egg and peanut allergies. These treatments show promise in reducing emergency room visits and healthcare costs associated with food allergies.
A new study suggests that hormone therapy initiated close to menopause can reduce the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease. Women who began hormone therapy within five years of menopause had a 30% lower risk of Alzheimer's dementia than those who did not use hormone therapy.
According to new Institute of Medicine guidelines, almost all Americans with healthy kidneys will have sufficient vitamin D levels if their blood levels are above 20 ng/ml. This translates to approximately 78.7 million adults who previously required supplementation no longer needing it.
Scientists at Ames Laboratory successfully remove neodymium and other rare earths from commercial magnets, maintaining useful properties. The new process aims to produce high-purity alloys for future applications.
A new focus section discusses a new, improved shingles vaccine and alternative therapies to control symptoms. Experts emphasize the need for continued attention from public health, physicians, and researchers to address this debilitating condition.
A recent study published in Nature Cell Biology has identified Elf5, a protein necessary for lactation, as a key player in suppressing breast cancer tumors and metastasis. The research found that when Elf5 is absent or low, epithelial cells become more like stem cells, leading to cancer growth and spread.
A recent study published in Menopause found that hypnosis can effectively manage hot flashes in postmenopausal women, leading to significant reductions in frequency and severity. The study showed a 57% reduction in skin conductance, which is a measure of hot flash symptoms.
Tropical Storm Son-tinh has spread its clouds and showers over the Philippines, according to NASA satellite imagery. The storm's center was moving through the central Philippines, with strongest thunderstorms east of the center over the Philippine Sea.
Endothelial cells, not muscle cells on the outside of blood vessels, are responsible for sensing low oxygen levels and triggering pulmonary hypertension. Researchers at St. Michael's Hospital found that blocking communication between endothelial cells and smooth muscle cells could potentially prevent right heart failure.
Two Carnegie Mellon teams, Tartan Rescue Team and Team Steel, have been selected to compete in the DARPA Robotics Challenge, a competition where robots will respond to disaster scenarios in human-engineered environments. The ultimate winning team will receive a $2 million prize and advance robotics development across all fields.
A Florida Tech researcher has been awarded a $400,000 NSF grant to develop ferrates, which can effectively remove cyanotoxins from drinking water. The project will explore the use of ferrates in both laboratory and field settings to combat the growing problem of cyanobacteria in water reservoirs.
Researchers at NHCS have developed a novel human heart cell model of ARVC, allowing for safer study of genetic cardiovascular diseases and risk stratification. The model replicates key characteristics of the disease, including abnormal fatty changes and altered desmosomal proteins.
Baycrest's Mindfull e-cookbook provides a science-based approach to brain health, offering 100 delicious recipes to support cognitive function. The book debunks myths about nutrition and offers tips on how to boost brain function through food choices.
Tropical Storm Tony is a small, compact storm traveling through the central Atlantic Ocean. The storm's maximum sustained winds are near 45 mph, with some strengthening expected before gradual weakening.
Scientists will investigate connections between soil microorganisms and the carbon cycle, with potential implications for global warming. The project aims to understand how changes in soil carbon levels trigger chain reactions that convert stable carbon into atmospheric CO2.
Researchers at CU-Boulder have discovered a novel target for anti-cancer drug development by targeting the telomerase enzyme at the ends of chromosomes. This approach may provide an effective solution to the complex problem of cancerous cells. By blocking the telomerase enzyme, the growth of cancerous cells can be prevented.
Researchers found that residents in high-income white and integrated neighborhoods were more likely to receive bystander CPR during out-of-hospital cardiac arrests compared to those in low-income black neighborhoods. The study suggests a targeted approach in these areas may be more efficient than nationwide CPR training programs.
Researchers will administer prism adaptation therapy for 2 weeks and measure functional changes as well as home and community outcomes at 3 and 6 months later. The goal is to establish clinical guidelines, increase detection and management of spatial neglect, and optimize independence and engagement in the home and community for stroke...
A study found that a nitinol stent performed better than balloon angioplasty alone in treating blockages of the popliteal artery, with higher one-year primary patency rates. The trial compared primary nitinol stent placement to angioplasty alone in patients with single obstructive lesions in the popliteal artery.
Researchers have developed improved artificial voice devices that can produce age-appropriate voices for children and women with vocal cord problems. The new technology enhances speech signal analysis by tackling the challenge of identifying glottal excitation signals in higher-pitched voices.
The university will use the grant to build solar-powered charging stations for electric and hybrid vehicles, exploring technical, social, environmental and economic issues surrounding plug-in vehicles. The project aims to reduce air emissions and improve air quality by promoting the adoption of solar-powered charging stations.
Researchers from UC Irvine and NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory have discovered that galaxy halos are likely caused by orphan stars ejected from galaxies during violent mergers. The team used data from the Spitzer Space Telescope to study the patterns of diffuse light, finding that it is too strong to be explained by earlier theories.
Researchers at Aarhus University discovered bacteria that function as live electric cables, conducting electric currents over centimeter-long distances. These 'cable bacteria' contain insulated wires that transfer electrons, allowing them to thrive in oxygen-free parts of the seabed.
A study found that aspirin use significantly improves survival rates for patients with a specific gene mutation, but has limited impact on those without. The study suggests a new genetic marker to predict therapy effectiveness.
A recent study published in Menopause found that about one-third of women who stopped taking the SSRI antidepressant escitalopram experienced a relapse of hot flashes and night sweats. Women with insomnia and those who responded less well to the medication were more likely to experience a relapse.
LncRNAs have been found to regulate gene expression in various diseases, including brachydactyly and HELLP syndrome. Additionally, research on obesity has shown that early genetic intervention can rescue mice from obesity-induced metabolic disorders. Furthermore, editing mistakes in miR-376 cluster have been linked to invasive brain tu...
The Navy chief advocates for quarterly S&T meetings with industry and academia partners to accelerate innovation. He highlights the importance of collaboration in developing new naval technologies, emphasizing that innovative solutions will benefit both the warfighter and taxpayers.
Researchers have identified a novel type of T cell that can selectively target and destroy melanoma tumors. The discovery involves combining cyclophosphamide, an antibody that activates OX40 on T cells, with adoptive T cell transfer to eradicate advanced melanoma tumors in mice.
Research suggests that vendettas can be viable over the long term among group members, despite being costly and damaging to stakeholders. The study found that punishment mechanisms can enhance cooperation in public good games within groups.
Researchers found dopamine neurons release GABA, a neurotransmitter that lowers neuronal activity, which could explain why restoring only dopamine leads to waning improvements in Parkinson's patients. This discovery highlights the complex interplay between dopamine and GABA in brain disorders like depression and addiction.
A new video game with biofeedback is being studied to help children with anger issues. After playing the game, kids showed a clinically significant decrease in anger scores and improved emotional regulation.
Researchers at Arizona State University have developed a new method using plants to produce biological reagents for detecting and diagnosing West Nile Virus. The technique, which relies on plant viral-based vectors, allows for rapid, high-accuracy testing with lower costs and scalability compared to existing methods.
A new study by NC State University and Duke University finds that flame retardant Firemaster 550 causes endocrine disruption, leading to rapid weight gain, early onset of puberty, and cardiovascular health problems in lab rats. The researchers also detected high levels of thyroid hormone and glucose regulation issues in exposed offspring.
A study published in PLOS ONE finds that climate patterns are more correlated with population growth in the contiguous United States than income or urbanization. The researchers found a pronounced shift away from cool and seasonal climates towards warmer and drier areas, resulting in a six-fold temperature increase over the last century.
A new study suggests that moderate drinking can decrease brain cell production by up to 40% in adults, leading to potential harm on learning and memory. Researchers found that rats exposed to low levels of alcohol showed reduced nerve cells in the hippocampus, a crucial area for new learning.
Researchers found that archer fish modulate water jet velocity to create a single large drop that hits prey with great force. This approach avoids the need for specialized internal structures, allowing the fish to achieve powerful impact without significant evolutionary costs.
Physicians are facing the challenge of providing early treatment for fungal meningitis as cases continue to rise. The University of Michigan Health System physician authors recommend a high dose of voriconazole, but note the risk of visual disturbances, confusion, and liver test abnormalities. To avoid these effects, reducing the drug'...
Climate change is altering rainfall patterns in Panama, which affects frog reproductive strategies. Some species, like the pantless treefrog, may adapt to changing conditions by switching between aquatic and terrestrial egg-laying.
Researchers developed an electronic nose to detect obstructive sleep apnoea, a condition associated with inflammation in the upper airways. The device accurately diagnosed sleep apnoea in patients, showing a sensitivity of 93%, and could potentially reduce costs by selecting patients who require further testing.
Research highlights the potential impact of airport security scanners on diabetes devices, including insulin pumps and continuous glucose monitoring systems. The Editorial calls for more research to understand and potentially repair this issue affecting hundreds of thousands of people worldwide who use insulin pump therapy.
A study by University of Alberta researchers found that providing educational information to physicians and patients improved osteoporosis treatment rates. The intervention led to a significant increase in follow-up testing and treatment, especially among men who are often overlooked as having the condition.
A study by Georgia State University and Emory University School of Medicine identified three primary causes of hospital readmissions: pre-existing conditions, complications developed in the hospital, and complications post-discharge. The study found that 11.3% of patients were readmitted within 30 days.
Obese patients are at a greater risk of post-surgical infections and require more follow-up surgeries following total knee replacement. The study advises well-informed obese patients to lose weight before surgery to lessen osteoarthritis symptoms and improve outcomes.
Research estimates that European countries with weak agricultural import controls are more vulnerable to exotic insect pests. The study provides new metrics to evaluate and improve border controls, highlighting the need for better biosecurity measures to prevent invasive insects from entering the continent.
A new species of coelacanth, Reidus hilli, has been identified in Texas, revealing a previously unknown family and providing insights into the evolutionary history of this ancient fish. The discovery sheds light on the diverse history of coelacanths, which have remained largely unchanged for 400 million years.
The TRILOGY ACS trial found prasugrel did not reduce cardiovascular events among patients managed medically for acute coronary syndrome. However, it was associated with lower rates of cardiovascular disease, heart attack, and stroke, but higher rates of bleeding when compared to clopidogrel.
The American Urological Association has released four new clinical practice guidelines aimed at improving the quality of patient care. The guidelines cover diagnosis and treatment of overactive bladder, adult urodynamics, asymptomatic microhematuria, and vasectomy.
Scientists from NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center directly observed Kelvin-Helmholtz waves in the solar wind, allowing energy transfer into near-Earth space. The presence of these waves enables charged particles to breach Earth's magnetic shield, altering the magnetosphere's behavior.
The study reveals that disparate chromosome structures, rather than separate gene adaptations, underlie the separation of the two flycatcher species. Genome sequencing and analysis identified specific regions in the chromosomes involved in meiosis and gender cell production as key to understanding species divergence.
Researchers developed a mouse model of obesity where the proopiomelanocortin gene can be turned on and off to study the impact of chronic weight gain. Turning the gene back on after prolonged obesity reduced its effectiveness.
A study comparing sepsis mortality rates in Europe and the US found higher mortality rates in Europe, but differences may reflect varying critical care approaches rather than healthcare quality. The study also revealed disparities in ICU admission and length of stay between the two regions.
Pitt researchers find neurons wire and fire together in clusters to dominate brain activity, with weak stimuli triggering imbalance. The model shows how clustered connections influence stochastic brain dynamics, shedding light on the brain's default spontaneous state.
A team led by University of Delaware researchers aims to create a robot that can drive vehicles, navigate environments, use tools, and manipulate equipment in disaster relief scenarios. The robot will focus on key tasks such as getting into and out of vehicles, driving factoring in difficult conditions.
Researchers at Berkeley Lab's Accelerator and Fusion Research Division develop a new method to measure the energy spread of electron beams in laser plasma accelerators. The experiment finds that local energy spread can be as small as half a percent, enabling more precise control over the beam.
A comprehensive review of herbal and dietary supplement interactions reveals potentially harmful drug combinations, particularly among those with central nervous or cardiovascular systems. The study emphasizes the need for increased awareness and monitoring to mitigate risks.
Researchers identified a distinct patient population that may benefit from prasugrel, a novel anti-platelet therapy, in those triaged to medical therapy following angiography. This subgroup showed lower rates of cardiovascular events and bleeding compared to clopidogrel.
A large-scale study has defined the complexity of underlying mutations responsible for pancreatic cancers, revealing that 'pancreatic cancer' is not one disease but many. The analysis found over 2,000 mutated genes, with some associated with poorer outcomes.
The partnership enables the publication of high-quality stem cell research in an open-access venue, promoting outreach and quality in the field. Stem Cell Reports will feature various article types and allow authors to retain full copyright over their work.
Multicellular bacteria have been found to function as living power cables, transmitting electrons across large distances as part of their respiration and ingestion processes. The discovery reveals a previously unknown type of long, multicellular bacteria that act as biological power cables.
Dr. Thomas H. Jordan, a renowned geophysicist, received the AGI Outstanding Contribution to the Public Understanding of the Geosciences Award in 2013. He is recognized for his efforts to increase public awareness of earthquake processes, probabilities, preparedness, and risk at an international level.
Palliative care discussions can improve symptoms, stress, and survival time for patients with terminal illnesses. Physicians should discuss palliative care with patients during initial talks about prognosis and at subsequent visits to help them plan their remaining lives.
The Antarctic ozone hole reached its maximum size this year, covering an area of 8.2 million square miles, but was smaller than expected due to warmer temperatures. The average size of the ozone hole was 6.9 million square miles, with scientists attributing the change to natural fluctuations in weather patterns.
A nine-year study found that high compliance with hand hygiene and infection control measures reduced MRSA infections by 95% in medical, surgical, and neuroscience intensive care units. The approach also improved patient safety and reduced the need for costly isolations.
Researchers at the University of Illinois have developed a new approach to inhibit the transfer of antibiotic-resistance genes in Streptococcus pneumoniae. By targeting a protein called CSP, they found that artificial versions of this protein can block gene transfer and reduce the infectious capacity of the bacteria.
The DARPA director stresses the need for radical innovation and collaboration between government, academia, and industry to develop next-generation cruise missiles with autonomous guidance. This partnership is crucial for giving U.S. warfighters a decisive edge in future battles.
A sense of control over events reduces emotion-driven time distortions, regardless of individual's emotional state or illusion of control. Previous studies found that highly arousing images lead to time distortions, but this study shows that giving participants a feeling of control eliminates these effects.
Researchers explore how membranes influence self-assembly and structure formation in cells, revealing that membranes promote self-assembly and reproduce structures similar to those found in nature.
A breakthrough study found that brainwave training enhances a cognitive-control network in just 30 minutes, leading to reduced mind-wandering. The study used neurofeedback to train participants' brains and showed significant changes in brain activity and behavior.
Two papers connect long non-coding RNAs to inherited conditions in humans, revealing a chromosomal translocation disrupting expression of PTHLH and SOX9 genes. A lncRNA on chromosome 12 is also linked to the development of the placenta.
A study published in Science Communication found that media messages describing paranormal investigators as 'scientific' make people more likely to believe in ghosts and haunted houses. Researchers found that such descriptions increase credibility ratings and lead to increased belief in paranormal claims.
The PARTNER Cohort B trial found TAVR to be beneficial for patients with severe aortic stenosis, with lower mortality rates and fewer cardiac deaths at three years compared to standard therapy. The study confirms the role of TAVR as the standard-of-care for symptomatic patients who are not surgical candidates.
The study identified mutations in genes involved in chromatin modification and axon guidance, which are not previously linked to pancreatic cancer. New information on these genes could lead to exciting treatment strategies for the disease.
A study published in PLOS ONE found that older adults are worse at distinguishing between lifted weights than younger counterparts. The researchers assessed the ability of participants in two age groups to estimate weight ratios and found that older adults consistently estimated the ratios as much higher than they actually were.
A study found that protected areas in Catalonia have a high number of animal deaths on the roads, with amphibians being most susceptible. Researchers suggest building tunnels for amphibians to reduce mortality rates.
The Navy plans to reduce its fleet size and workforce due to sequestration, but will focus on investing in cutting-edge technologies like the Electromagnetic Railgun. This commitment to innovation is seen as crucial for maintaining the service's technological advantage.
Researchers use electroencephalography to analyze brain activity before training on Space Fortress, a cognitive research video game. The study found that subjects with more powerful alpha wave oscillations tend to learn faster and improve reaction time and working memory.
A new guidebook provides a performance-based approach to police staffing and allocation, taking into account multiple factors such as crime rate, shift length, and community policing. The approach offers a more efficient way for agencies to determine the number of officers needed and deploy them effectively.
A nationwide study led by Dana-Farber Cancer Institute found that 69% of advanced lung cancer and 81% of advanced colorectal cancer patients believe chemotherapy can cure their disease. However, skilled clinicians can set realistic expectations without losing hope or trust.
A new study found that over 80% of flu-positive pigs showed no signs of illness, highlighting the risk of transmission between pigs and humans. The research also identified genetic similarities between human and pig viruses, confirming interspecies transmission.
A new study suggests that obesity can become a self-perpetuating disorder, making it harder to lose weight, especially if it persists over time. The longer mice remained overweight, the more irreversible their obesity became.
A new Harvard study found over half of people in northeastern Madagascar engage in geophagy, a widespread behavior previously thought to be non-existent. Researchers also discovered high rates of geophagy among men and young children, contradicting earlier studies that linked the practice mainly to pregnant women or adolescents.
Researchers suggest that small numbers of stars kicked to the edges of space during galaxy collisions may explain infrared light 'halos'. This theory proposes that only one-tenth of 1 percent of stars are distributed like dark matter, producing fluctuations in the cosmic background.
Researchers have created a new family of compounds that could slow Parkinson's disease progression by shutting down the Cav1.3 channel, which allows calcium to flood into dopamine neurons. The compounds were developed by Northwestern University scientists and show promise in animal trials without obvious side effects.
Tropical Storm Sandy is expected to become a hurricane before reaching Jamaica and Cuba, prompting hurricane warnings and watches for the region. The storm's strongest thunderstorms are surrounded by cloud top temperatures as cold as -63F (-52C), indicating hurricane-force winds.
The FAME 2 trial demonstrated that FFR-guided percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) is a cost-effective strategy compared to medical therapy for patients with stable coronary artery disease (CAD). This approach improves clinical outcomes and quality of life, with a projected cost-effectiveness of $53,000 per quality-adjusted life year.
The ISAR-LEFT MAIN 2 trial presented at TCT 2012 found that second-generation drug-eluting stents are safe and effective for treating left main coronary artery lesions. The study showed similar clinical outcomes between zotarolimus-eluting and everolimus-eluting stents in patients with high-risk lesions.
New research uses satellite images to estimate species richness and turnover, achieving nearly 100% accuracy. The method could improve biodiversity monitoring and conservation efforts by reducing costs and increasing efficiency.
Researchers at Moffitt Cancer Center investigated a novel combination of danusertib and bosutinib to overcome resistance in BCR-ABL gatekeeper mutation-specific disease. They found the synergy was not due to direct inhibition, but rather through the downstream MAPK signaling cascade and impaired activity of c-MYC gene regulator.
The TRMM satellite monitored rainfall and towering clouds as the first tropical cyclone of the season formed in the Arabian Sea. Rainfall rates reached up to 41 mm/hour, with thunderstorms surrounding the center of the storm.
Slowing container ships to 14mph reduced emissions of carbon dioxide, nitrogen oxides, and soot by 60-70% compared to traditional speeds. Imposing speed limits near ports could significantly reduce pollution and protect local populations' health.
Research found that self-affirmation enhances performance by making individuals more receptive to errors and allowing for better correction, as indicated by a stronger error-related negativity response in the brain. This study suggests that self-affirmation can be an effective strategy to improve self-control and reduce distress.
Researchers found a direct relationship between neighborhood income and racial composition and the probability of receiving bystander-initiated CPR. The study suggests that targeted, low-cost CPR training efforts are needed to address disparities in life-saving interventions.
Researchers at OHSU have successfully demonstrated a new gene therapy method that can replace mutated mitochondrial DNA with healthy copies in human cells. This breakthrough has the potential to prevent devastating diseases passed from mother to infant.