Research reveals that tumor hypoxia drives aggressive behavior and poorer prognosis in various cancers. CD24 overexpression is linked to tumor growth and metastasis, making it a potential therapeutic target.
A recent study found that gestational exposure to urban air pollution is associated with lower vitamin D levels in offspring, potentially affecting their risk of developing diseases later in life. Maternal vitamin D deficiency during pregnancy may have an influence on the development of asthma and allergic diseases in children.
A large European-wide study has confirmed that work stress is associated with a small but consistent increase in the risk of experiencing a first coronary heart disease event. The study found that individuals with highly demanding jobs and little freedom to make decisions are 23% more likely to experience a heart attack.
Adult men from divorced families are three times more likely to suffer a stroke than those from intact families, according to a new University of Toronto study. Researchers found that parental divorce was still associated with a tripled risk of stroke even after adjusting for other risk factors.
Researchers at Whitehead Institute identified four genetic markers that predict pluripotency in single cells, allowing for more efficient reprogramming. The team also discovered six new combinations of factors that activate Sox2, leading to full reprogramming and potentially healthier iPSCs.
The European Menopause and Andropause Society published a clinical guide on low-dose vaginal estrogens for postmenopausal vaginal atrophy, finding them effective in managing symptoms. The guide recommends annual review due to the chronic nature of vaginal atrophy.
A study in Cell Communication and Signaling reveals an extensive interactome of over 500 novel interactions between SH2 domains and phosphotyrosine peptides. The researchers identified six general classes of SH2 domain specificity, which may control the selectivity of individual domains.
Scientists discovered that invariant natural killer T-cells (iNKT) in fat tissue regulate inflammation and protect against obesity, diabetes, and metabolic syndrome. iNKT cells can be restored through weight loss and activated by alpha-galactosylceramide, a lipid known to improve metabolism.
A University of Maryland School of Public Health kinesiology researcher suggests that moderate exercise can help people cope with anxiety and stress for an extended period after the workout. The study found that exercise not only reduces anxiety but also helps maintain that reduced anxiety when confronted with emotional events.
A study by the University of Exeter and York found that male killer whales over 30 are almost 14 times more likely to die within a year after their mother's death. This prolonged menopause allows females to invest in their sons' survival, giving them a significant advantage in passing on their genes.
Christina Smolke, a Stanford bioengineer, has won a $2.5 million grant to explore using microbes to produce complex chemicals for advanced natural-product drugs. Her approach aims to transform the manufacturing scale and efficiency of microbial systems.
Researchers are using open-source Arduino microcontrollers and 3D printers to create their own lab equipment, reducing costs by thousands of dollars. This DIY approach is making science more accessible to schools and universities, enabling more discoveries with limited budgets.
UT Southwestern has been selected as one of 25 sites for the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke's (NINDS) NeuroNEXT clinical trials network. The network aims to streamline clinical trials for brain diseases by creating a shared infrastructure and institutional review board.
Scientists at Uppsala University have successfully cloned a T-cell receptor that binds to an antigen associated with both prostate and breast cancers. This breakthrough enables genetically modified T cells to specifically kill these cancer cells, offering hope for new treatment possibilities.
Researchers at Moffitt Cancer Center have discovered a novel predictor for myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) progression risk by analyzing changes in the physical characteristics of effector memory regulatory T cells. This finding could improve prognostication and inform therapeutic decision-making.
A new laser-based system can propel tiny, precise streams of medicine into the skin with minimal force, potentially eliminating pain from injections. The device uses an erbium-doped yttrium aluminum garnet laser to create a vapor bubble that forces drug-laden jets into the targeted depth of the skin.
A new study published in Neurology says Gingko biloba does not improve cognitive performance in people with multiple sclerosis. The research followed up on earlier findings that suggested there may be some benefit, but found no cognitive benefits to using the supplement.
A new report by the University of Leeds and the University of Leicester found that death rates in children's intensive care units are decreasing overall. However, there is a persistent higher risk of mortality for children of south Asian origin, highlighting disparities in staffing levels and quality of care.
Researchers at Northwestern University have engineered a surface that prevents bubbling during boiling, creating a stable vapor cushion and eliminating bubbles. This discovery could lead to advancements in heat transfer equipment, anti-frost technologies, and reduce damage to surfaces.
A new study adds giant viruses to the universal family tree, revealing they are ancient living organisms. The research found that many of the most ancient protein folds were also present in giant viruses, suggesting they appeared early in evolution.
The American Society of Nephrology has identified five recommendations for reducing unnecessary medical interventions, including avoiding routine cancer screening and administering erythropoiesis stimulating agents in chronic kidney disease patients. By implementing these guidelines, healthcare costs can be lowered and patient care imp...
Researchers at URMC found that defective cholesterol exportation appears to be a key component in various cancers. They demonstrated that re-establishing the cholesterol export function in human colon cancer cells inhibited tumor growth.
A new UCLA psychology study found that pre-wedding uncertainty, especially among women, predicts higher divorce rates and less marital satisfaction years later. Women with doubts were two-and-a-half times more likely to divorce than those without doubts.
The Saving Brains initiative aims to improve conditions for children's development, with funding focused on malnutrition, maternal depression, premature birth, and malaria. Innovations include Kangaroo Mother Care, Vitamin A supplementation, and early treatment of malaria to prevent brain injury.
A study has identified five genes responsible for human facial morphology, with three previously implicated in vertebrate craniofacial development and disease. The remaining two genes are new players in the molecular networks governing facial development.
A joint study by Rotman School researcher finds that signing forms first activates people's moral sense, making it harder to cheat. The study reveals a significant difference in insurance premium payments between those who sign at the beginning and end of forms.
A meta-analysis of 17 studies found that quitting alcohol significantly lowers the risk of esophageal cancer, with about half of this reduction occurring within 4-5 years. The study also suggests that moderate alcohol consumption may have beneficial health effects on cardiovascular disease and other conditions.
University of Arizona environmental engineering professor Shane Snyder will present on emerging contaminants in drinking water and treatment levels required around the world. He also shares his global water quality experiences from countries such as India, China, and Vietnam.
Researchers found that high fructose intake is associated with more severe depletion of liver ATP, a compound involved in energy transfer between cells. Elevated uric acid levels may serve as a marker for increased fructose consumption and hepatic ATP depletion.
Duc Dong, Ph.D., receives NIH New Innovator Award to explore genetic reprogramming as a means to grow replacement organs. The technology aims to induce new tissue development in zebrafish, allowing for rapid screening of genes and chemicals important for efficient genetic reprogramming.
Researchers at Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center used an electronic prosthetic system to tap into existing brain circuitry and record neural pulses. The device restored and improved decision-making ability in monkeys, even when exposed to a drug that disrupts cognitive activity.
Researchers identified a link between a genetic variant in the MET receptor tyrosine kinase gene and changes in brain connectivity, particularly in social behavior. The 'C' variant was found to disrupt functional and structural connectivity of brain networks involved in social behavior in both healthy children and those with ASD, but h...
Researchers at Brigham and Women's Hospital have discovered a new biomarker for melanoma, a deadly skin cancer. The findings reveal that certain biochemical elements in DNA are absent in melanoma cells, serving as a key indicator for malignant melanoma.
A new study found that 70% of reported cases receive a physician's diagnosis for their child's food allergy, but only 1 in 5 receives an oral food challenge test. Lower-income and minority households are more likely to have undiagnosed food allergies, with 32% not receiving diagnostic testing.
Neural stem cells successfully regenerates axons across the site of complete spinal transaction, leading to functional recovery in rats. The study also showed that adult cells can regenerate into neural stem cells, establishing a new relay circuit that can be measured electrically.
The USDA's Agricultural Research Service has developed several new blueberry varieties, including 'Pink Lemonade', which offers a flavorful surprise with its taste similar to a raspberry. Another notable variety is 'Sweetheart', which produces firm, delectable berries in mid-to-late June and allows for an extended harvest period.
A recent study found that 61 of 181 North Carolina migrant farmworker camps failed to meet state water quality standards, with high levels of total coliform bacteria and E. coli detected in the water.
Scientists found that glaciers on Baffin Island expanded quickly during a short-lived cold snap about 8,200 years ago, providing insight into ice sheets' response to past climate change. This discovery suggests that ice sheets may react rapidly to temperature shifts, raising concerns for future climate change.
A study from Boston Children's Hospital shows that early social isolation prevents cells called oligodendrocytes from maturing, leading to impaired cognitive and social functioning in adulthood. The study identifies a molecular pathway involved in these abnormalities and suggests it could be targeted with drugs.
Researchers have developed a light-sensitive derivative of propofol that can reverse its anesthetic effects. In experiments with tadpoles, the compound was found to be more potent than propofol alone and allowed neurons to regain responsiveness upon exposure to light.
A study found that reading food labels is associated with lower body mass index in women, with a reduction of 3.91 kg for an average woman. Urban, high school-educated, and university-educated women tend to pay more attention to nutritional information.
The Met Office's new 'high-top' system better warns of severe winter conditions by accounting for sudden stratospheric warmings. This improved model predicted a cold start to the 2010/11 winter, which turned out to be the second-coldest in 350 years of records.
Researchers found that 7 out of 10 top media-covered ADHD studies were refuted or strongly attenuated by later research. This phenomenon may cause significant distortion in health science communication if generalized to other health topics. The study highlights the potential for misleading early results to dominate public discourse.
A study found that abnormal endocannabinoid signaling in mouse embryos can disrupt placental development and lead to pregnancy problems. Researchers hope the findings will inform studies on the causes of preeclampsia, a medical condition affecting mothers and children.
Researchers found that women's disgust responses are weaker when they are sexually aroused. The study, published in PLOS ONE, used a combination of peer review and post-publication rating and commenting to maximize the impact of every report it publishes. All works published in PLOS ONE are Open Access.
Penn State researchers are creating a new training program for doctoral students in Big Data Social Science, with the help of a $3 million NSF grant. The program aims to equip scientists with tools to address the challenges of massive and complex socially generated data.
Researchers found that older adults are open to robot assistance with some daily living tasks, such as housekeeping and laundry, but prefer human assistance with others. The study highlights the need for further research on how robots can support older adults in living independently.
The Entomological Society of America has recognized Dr. Donald A. Rutz, Dr. Kevin Heinz, and Dr. Florence Dunkel with awards for their contributions to extension entomology, horticultural entomology, and teaching respectively. The winners will be honored at the ESA's 60th Annual Meeting in Knoxville, Tennessee.
Research using satellite data found convective precipitation is more common over dry regions, suggesting a different mechanism than previously thought. The study's findings challenge existing computer models and highlight the need for further research to understand this phenomenon.
A study published in the New England Journal of Medicine reveals that mutations in the PTEN gene can improve metabolism and increase insulin sensitivity in people with Cowden syndrome. The researchers found that those with Cowden syndrome had higher levels of obesity, but the extra weight was caused by extra fat storage, not muscle mass.
Recent research in epigenetics has identified two key tests that can predict brain tumor sensitivity to temozolomide and distinguish prostate cancer from benign growth. New epigenetic biomarkers are being rapidly developed to predict treatment performance and weaknesses of tumors.
A hands-on project for high school students in Portugal increased understanding of bacteria, antibiotics, and the dangers of antibiotic resistance. Students found the experience both enjoyable and useful, highlighting the benefits of incorporating hands-on activities into science education.
In 2011, Americans took a record 4.02 billion prescription drugs, with antidepressants and ADHD medicines showing notable increases in sales. The growth of prescriptions is attributed to the rising demand for CNS disorders medications.
A major review of European breast cancer screening services found that the benefits outweigh the harms, with seven to nine lives saved for every 1,000 women screened. The review also noted that four cases of over-diagnosis occur for every 1,000 women screened, which can cause stress and anxiety.
A new analysis by ACS researchers suggests that up to 1.1 million annual cases of acute gastrointestinal illness may be caused by contaminated drinking water distribution systems in the US. Aging infrastructure and lack of funding pose significant health risks, particularly for small systems.
Researchers at Tel Aviv University are developing small, high-frequency radiation-enabled chips capable of producing images through packaging and clothing. These chips have the potential to provide sophisticated yet affordable security technology for everyday use, addressing concerns around cost and size.
Research finds that dry soils increase the likelihood of afternoon storms globally, contradicting current climate models. The study's findings have significant implications for predicting regional weather patterns and understanding global climate change.
The Innocence Project has helped free nearly 300 wrongfully convicted prisoners due to improper use of forensic science. Improved sensitivity in DNA testing has highlighted issues of cross-contamination, affecting accuracy.
A recent study published in Psychology of Women Quarterly found that judges' reliance on stereotyped portrayals of battered women who fight back leads to harsher sentencing. The study analyzed 26 domestic homicide and abuse cases from Canada and identified one judge who resisted these stereotypes.
Researchers at Case Western Reserve University have developed novel antivirulence drugs that block toxin production in bacteria, rendering them harmless. The discovery has the potential to combat antibiotic-resistant infections like MRSA and strep.