Scientists believe Comet ISON may have been destroyed upon approaching the sun, leaving behind small rubble pieces. Telescopes will observe and detect any remaining fragments to confirm the comet's status.
Researchers identified a biomarker for prostate cancer recurrence, revealing that patients with CD151free protein have cancer recur earlier than those without. This discovery may aid in determining patient care and predicting disease progression.
Researchers at the University of Cambridge discovered that crop-infecting viruses use aphids as pawns to spread infection to healthy vegetation. By altering plant biochemistry, these viruses repel visiting aphids and force them to move to healthier plants, unwittingly transporting and spreading the virus.
Researchers found hummingbirds can switch between burning glucose and fructose equally well, unlike humans who struggle with fructose metabolism. This efficient sugar-burning strategy enables hummingbirds to maintain hovering flight while minimizing unnecessary weight gain.
Researchers found that pre-moxibustion prior to Aβ1–42 exposure was more effective than moxibustion after Aβ1–42 exposure in protecting neuronal structure and lowering apoptosis rate. Moxibustion therapy may have a beneficial effect on preventing Alzheimer's disease development.
Researchers from UEA compiled a comprehensive review of primate eating habits, finding that smaller primates eat more insects while larger ones consume more leaves. The study also reveals that some monkeys can easily meet their 'five a day' fruit intake within an hour.
Researchers developed a simple mechanical model to effectively explain DNA's double-stranded structure and elasticity at the nanoscale. The model shows how extreme conditions can cause DNA conformational changes, and its extension is used to study various phenomena such as sequence heterogeneity and protein-DNA interaction.
A computer model found that genetic screening for breast cancer risk in conjunction with MRI can reduce cancer deaths and identify a population at an intermediate risk. The study compared two tests to categorize patients by lifetime risk, finding the 7SNP test was most cost-effective for those with an intermediate risk.
Researchers transformed a $10 webcam into a mini-microscope to detect parasitic infections at the point-of-care. The device uses image recognition software to automatically identify parasite eggs in urine and stool samples.
Scientists at Emory Vaccine Center identified a key immune cell response to yellow fever vaccine that involves the gene GCN2, which regulates autophagy in cells. This finding could lead to more effective vaccines against challenging viruses like HIV or dengue.
Researchers from East China Normal University discovered NMDA receptor 2B subunit gene expression declines significantly associated with memory impairment in aged animals. The study identified key regulatory pathways, including P53 and insulin-like growth factor pathways.
A study found that blacks experience more positive emotions in the workplace than whites, contrary to expectations. The percentage of minority workers in a workplace affects the friendships of whites, with more minorities leading to fewer close white friends.
A study found that HIV infection occurred in 68% of HIV-positive transplant recipients' new organs despite undetectable blood levels. Researchers developed a new, simple urine test to diagnose kidney infections in these patients, which could improve diagnosis and treatment.
A partial skeleton of Paranthropus boisei, a human ancestor characterized by its 'robust' jaw and skull bones, has been found in Tanzania. The find suggests that the species was more ruggedly built than previously thought and had strong forearms and powerful upper body.
The JILA team has developed a method to spin electric and magnetic fields around trapped molecular ions, enabling the first measurement of an electron's electric dipole moment. This technique has major implications for future scientific understanding of the universe and may also be useful in quantum information experiments.
Three mass spectrometers from NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center conducted simultaneous experiments on the moon and Mars to analyze atmospheric and rock samples. This milestone demonstrates the value of these instruments for understanding planetary environments.
Researchers have discovered that tumour cells adopt the 'break-induced replication' (BIR) pathway to repair damaged replication forks, allowing for genome duplication. This pathway is common in cancer cells but rare in healthy cells, revealing a significant difference between these two types of cells.
Scientists have identified a crucial class of neurons responsible for mosquito attraction to human skin odor, offering potential solutions for effective mosquito control. Researchers discovered that compounds targeting these neurons can inhibit the attraction of mosquitoes, paving the way for new repellents and traps.
Researchers studied cockroach behavior to develop faster robots, finding that mechanical changes can overcome nervous system limitations. Cockroach antennae bend in response to rough surfaces, allowing for stable navigation during high-speed maneuvers.
Ancel Keys, a prominent nutrition researcher, has had a significant impact on American eating habits. The new biography aims to explore his life and work in the context of the evolution of American food culture and its effects on health status.
Researchers found that maternal depression was associated with reduced structural connectivity in the right amygdala of newborns. This abnormal microstructure may contribute to a child's vulnerability to mental illness. The study suggests early intervention targeting maternal depression during pregnancy could reduce this risk.
Research from North Carolina State University found that nonstandard work schedules can hurt parent-child relationships, increasing delinquent behaviors. However, certain circumstances can be beneficial for children, particularly when one parent works a nonstandard schedule while the other maintains a standard schedule.
Researchers develop a new method of wirelessly recharging medical device batteries with ultrasound, offering a safe and efficient means of wireless power transmission. The technology has been tested in animal tissue and demonstrated promising results.
Research suggests women tend to view sexually explicit ads negatively, except when paired with high-value products like luxury watches. Women's attitudes soften towards such ads due to the connotation of exclusivity and rarity associated with premium pricing.
Researchers say sea-level rise will become the dominant driver of flooding and coastal damage, even if storm activity changes. The study suggests a holistic approach to manage coastal systems to mitigate this threat.
The study found that Miscanthus x giganteus yields are more than twice those of switchgrass in US field trials. The average annual yield of Miscanthus was 10.5 tons per acre, compared to 4.5 tons per acre for switchgrass. This suggests that Miscanthus could be a viable alternative for sustainable energy production in the US.
Scientists discovered rapid warming in the Eifel region 12,240 years ago and 100 years later in southern Norway. The study uses volcanic ash as a time marker to explain the 120-year difference in timing.
A review of subthalamic nucleus deep brain stimulation effects on Parkinson's disease patients reveals that while it improves motor features, social maladjustment and certain aspects of quality of life can be negatively impacted. Effective strategies are needed to mitigate these adverse effects and improve patients' overall well-being.
The American Society of Hematology has released a list of common hematology tests, treatments, and procedures that are not always necessary. The list highlights five tests or procedures to question, including limiting surveillance CT scans in asymptomatic patients following curative-intent treatment for aggressive lymphoma.
Tropical Depression 33W rapidly weakened, with only two isolated areas of heavy rainfall remaining. The depression was expected to move northeast and dissipate over the next day due to high vertical wind shear.
Researchers at the University of Adelaide discovered that the stomach's nerves act as a circadian clock, controlling food intake. The discovery suggests that the gut signals the brain about when to stop eating, and how this timing varies throughout the day.
A study conducted by Vanderbilt University researchers found that skilled typists can't identify the positions of many keys on the QWERTY keyboard and novice typists don't appear to learn key locations. The results contradict the widely held theory of automatic learning, which suggests that typing becomes unconscious with repetition.
A study found that 14% of veterinarians burn out within 10 years of qualifying, with women being almost twice as likely to experience burn-out, and reaching it faster. The causes include job demands and low self-efficacy among female vets.
A review paper highlights how human structures like dams and seawalls are hindering coastal wetlands' natural defense mechanisms. Wetlands can build up their soils to outpace sea level rise through various responses, but human activities are disrupting these processes.
ETH-scientists develop software to scan 3D models using smartphone technology, allowing users to capture objects easily and efficiently. The app uses inertial sensors and graphics processing power to enable faster reconstruction and increased interactivity.
Researchers at Carnegie Mellon University have developed a new approach to password management that leverages shared visual cues to enable users to remember multiple passwords. By pairing short stories with photos, the system generates unique, strong passwords for multiple accounts, promoting secure and easy password management.
A study published in Neurology suggests that a vaccine used to prevent tuberculosis may help prevent multiple sclerosis in people showing early signs of the disease. After six months, vaccinated individuals had fewer brain lesions than those who received a placebo, with 58% not developing MS compared to 30%.
Researchers at the University of Colorado have synthesized the most active component of grape seed extract, B2G2, which induces apoptosis in prostate cancer cells while leaving healthy cells unharmed. The findings suggest that B2G2 is a promising lead compound for future clinical trials and preclinical studies.
The American Institute of Biological Sciences has selected three individuals as winners of its 2013 Faces of Biology: Broader Impacts Photo Contest. The winning photos showcase the broader impacts of biological sciences, including informing natural resources management and addressing climate change.
Researchers have identified regions beneath the oceans where igneous rocks can safely store large volumes of carbon dioxide. The stored CO2 would be locked away for centuries, preventing its release into the atmosphere or oceans.
New research shows Valley Girl dialect, known for rising pitch at the ends of sentences, is expanding to other demographic groups, including males. The study identified distinct melodic vocal patterns distinguishing uptalk questions from statements, busting stereotypes about insecurity and non-intellectualism associated with the dialect.
A new mathematical model can help business owners and policymakers determine the optimal locations for wholesale distributors to minimize transportation costs and maximize producers' and retailers' benefits. The model considers factors like distributor size, road conditions, and gas prices to identify ideal hubs in various supply chains.
A study by PNNL researchers found that highly insulating windows reduce energy consumption by 12.2% in a home setting. However, the high upfront cost takes anywhere from 23 to 55 years to pay off, making comfort and other benefits more immediate.
Researchers at CNIO discovered blocking Cdh1 protein prevents cellular proliferation in rapidly dividing cells. This could lead to new therapies targeting cancer.
Two new studies published in Menopause journal show that low-dose flibanserin improves sexual function in postmenopausal women, while high-dose testosterone also yields benefits, but with cautionary notes on cardiovascular risks.
Researchers found that blood vessels in face transplant recipients reorganize themselves, creating new networks to ensure healthy circulation. This understanding could improve surgical planning and assessment of potential complications, potentially shortening operation time and reducing procedure-associated complications.
A new study shows that telemedicine consultations can effectively manage Parkinson's symptoms and improve quality of life. Virtual house calls enable individuals with the condition to live independently while receiving specialized care.
A RIKEN research team successfully generated two-color X-ray laser pulses in the hard X-ray region, showcasing improved tunability and spatial separation. This achievement will facilitate investigations into ultrafast chemistry, plasma physics, and astrophysics.
Researchers at University of Cincinnati Cancer Institute found the retinoblastoma (Rb) protein plays a critical role in suppressing cell migration and metastasis in basal-like breast carcinomas. The study suggests that Rb suppression stimulates collective cell-based invasion, leading to lymphovascular invasion and metastasis.
A U of A research team has identified a giant cosmic accelerator above the Earth, accelerating particles to near-light speeds within the Van Allen radiation belt. The discovery could improve space weather forecasts and protect man-made systems from damage.
A recent study by Boston Children's Hospital researchers has identified Tet1 as a crucial protein involved in wiping out genetic imprints from primordial germ cells. The findings could provide insights into the cause of certain neonatal growth defects, while also advancing the development of stem cell models of disease.
The study found that low-frequency waves, known as Ultra-low frequency (ULF) waves, accelerate particles in the radiation belts to near-light speed. This mechanism has important implications for understanding cosmic particle acceleration throughout the universe.
A recent study published in The Lancet Oncology found that cancer survival rates still differ significantly between European countries, with Nordic countries having the best survival rates for most cancers. However, there is evidence of narrowing gaps between east and west, particularly for breast and prostate cancers.
Researchers have successfully extracted and sequenced the oldest hominin DNA to date from a 400,000-year-old fossil from Sima de los Huesos in Northern Spain. The mitochondrial genome sequence reveals that the ancient hominins are related to Denisovans and share a common ancestor with them about 700,000 years ago.
Researchers found that alien harlequin ladybirds are less likely to be parasitized by common wasps and flies than native UK species. The study supports the Enemy Release Hypothesis, suggesting that native predators and parasites may struggle to attack invasive species.
New fossils support Andrey Martynov's theory that wasps emerged from snakefly-like ancestors around 260-270 million years ago. The study also identifies the origins of alderfly and nanosialid families.
Scientists will attempt to identify a molecular signal indicating severity of brain-injury in patients at risk for vasospasm after hemorrhagic stroke. The goal is to establish individualized care and respond rapidly to changing health conditions, allowing earlier intervention and preventing secondary injuries.
Researchers have developed a tiny capsule that can detect occult blood in the stomach at very low levels, enabling early diagnosis of stomach cancer. The device is non-toxic and acid-safe, and has been shown to be reliable and simple to use.
A study published in Cerebral Cortex found that mice raised without a father exhibited impaired social behavior, increased aggression, and altered brain anatomy. The findings suggest that paternal presence during critical growth periods is essential for healthy child development.
The World Stem Cell Report 2013 presents innovative solutions for accelerating stem cell treatments and eventual cures, addressing regulatory, legal, and ethical roadblocks. The report is a benchmark guide for moving the field forward, supporting the 2013 World Stem Cell Summit.