Researchers investigated the use of bone-marrow grafts to treat low-back pain. The study found that some patients experienced complete pain relief after treatment, while others showed no improvement.
Researchers found that intestinal stem-cell regeneration in fruit flies varies with the time of day, with gut healing being more effective at certain times. This study sheds light on how circadian rhythms control daily functions and has potential applications for human health, including optimizing chemotherapy timing.
Researchers at Harvard University have developed a new statistical model to compare modern and historical temperatures. The study found that the warmest summers in the last two decades are unprecedented in the previous six centuries.
The book reveals how science, socio-political, cultural, and biological factors have shaped our understanding of stress since the late nineteenth century. Professor Mark Jackson's work highlights the link between stress and disease, tracing it back to Hungarian scientist Hans Selye's theories.
A study of returning veterans with major limb injuries found that while pain improved significantly within the first year, mental health problems such as depression and PTSD persisted. The research highlighted the need for ongoing biobehavioral pain and psychological care to help severely injured veterans cope with their pain and trauma.
Researchers found that cannula gauge, tip length, set temperature, and lesion time significantly impact heat lesion width and length in radiofrequency treatments. The study provides new insights for pain management and treatment precision.
Polycrystalline diamond is used to manufacture monolithic components for optical circuits, combining integrated optics with mechanical elements. The material's high refractive index, low absorption, and modulus of elasticity enable efficient photon transport and robustness.
Dozens of fires have been detected in the Yucatan Peninsula, with many believed to be deliberately set for agriculture purposes. The region is experiencing its dry season, which often leads to an increase in fires.
A mid-level solar flare, classified as an M6.5 flare, was detected by NASA's Solar Dynamics Observatory on April 11, 2013, producing a radio blackout. The flare disrupted radio signals for hours and is the strongest seen in 2013 so far.
NASA's Aqua satellite captured images of Cyclone Imelda on April 11, revealing a well-developed storm with tightly-curved bands of thunderstorms. The storm turned to the south due to wind shear, with powerful thunderstorms dropping heavy rainfall and having cloud top temperatures colder than -63 Fahrenheit.
Dozens of agricultural fires have been set in India and Nepal, with the NASA MODIS satellite capturing their extent. The fires are outlined in red on this natural-color image from April 06, 2013.
Researchers found microwave ablation (MWA) therapy cut pain in half for patients with bone and soft-tissue tumors, lasting up to 15 months. MWA was faster than radiofrequency ablation, with less risk of complications.
A comprehensive marine biodiversity observation network could be established within 5 years with modest funding, addressing gaps in understanding global marine organism distribution under climate change threats. The network would help identify threats like exotic species invasions and resolve conflicts over ocean management.
Fires in Southeast Asia are ongoing, with crop burning identified as a primary cause. NASA images capture the extent of these fires, which can have devastating environmental impacts.
Research reveals many marine mammal populations are increasing, with some recovering to near carrying capacity. The MMPA's strong protections against commercial and accidental killing have contributed to these recoveries.
A new report highlights regulating alcohol outlet density as an effective strategy to reduce excessive drinking and related harms. By limiting outlets per population or using land-use powers, localities can address excessive drinking and create healthier communities.
The study provides insight into hydrocarbon combustion and atmospheric chemistry, confirming fast reactions and first-time measurements with water. The findings validate theoretical predictions and supply critical targets for validation in predicting Criegee intermediate reactions.
A study of 40 patients on high-dose opioid therapy found improved pain control and mental outlook, but also significant hormonal disturbances and signs of inflammation. Despite these complications, the majority of patients reported improvements in at least one physiologic function.
Researchers at Columbia University developed a method to map evaporation globally using weather stations, enabling scientists to evaluate water resource management and assess recent trends. The technique uses air temperature and humidity measurements to obtain daily evaporation rates.
Cyclone Imelda continues to strengthen with powerful convection throughout the storm. Infrared satellite imagery captures cloud top temperatures indicating stronger uplift and higher thunderstorm development. The cyclone is moving west-southwest at 4 knots, influenced by a high-pressure ridge and a low-pressure trough.
Researchers found that excess tumor necrosis factor production initially kills TB pathogens, but later encourages their growth. Certain drug combinations can reverse this effect, potentially reverting hypersusceptibility to hyperresistance.
Researchers developed two innovative techniques to minimize lead migration and anchor site pain in spinal cord stimulators. Advanced anchoring and multiple lead placement through a single port reduced complications and improved patient outcomes.
Researchers at Mount Sinai have identified a soy-based compound, genistein, that can inhibit tumor cell growth and block Wnt signaling hyperactivity in colorectal cancer. Genistein has shown promise as an adjunctive treatment for metastatic colorectal cancer when used in combination with chemotherapy.
Researchers from UCLA and UC Berkeley have solved the puzzle of the telomerase enzyme complex's three-dimensional structure, revealing its role in cancer and aging. The discovery opens up new approaches to fighting disease, particularly cancer, by allowing for targeted drug development.
A new ice cloud has appeared over Titan's south pole, marking the onset of a global air circulation reversal. The cloud is composed of an unknown ice type and appears to be building rapidly, while its northern counterpart is slowly fading.
Researchers analyze fossilized teeth of Australopithecus sediba and find it shares common dental traits with early humans. The study suggests that sediba is a close relative to humans, but its position in human evolution remains uncertain.
Thousands of wildfires are burning across the southeastern United States, with many prescribed fires also taking place to manage undergrowth and agricultural purposes. The National Interagency Fire Center reports 17 large fires, including three uncontained ones.
The study provides a comprehensive depiction of the early human ancestral remains from Malapa, including their unique lower back curvature and more flexible spine. The findings suggest that Au. sediba walked in a way that was a 'compromise' between bipedalism and quadrupedalism.
Researchers found that weight loss after gastric bypass surgery changes DNA methylation, affecting genes controlling glucose and fat metabolism. This reversal coincides with weight loss and improvement in overall metabolic health.
Researchers from BUSM have developed a genetic signature for COPD from airway cells, providing a new way to study the disease and monitor patient response to treatments. This approach has shown consistent gene-expression changes in both airway and lung tissue cells in individuals with COPD.
A new hypothesis suggests that spherical structures in the nucleus, containing FE65 and BLM proteins, can give a wrong signal for cell division. This degeneration and death of nerve cells is linked to Alzheimer's patients.
New molecular techniques offer insights into pet obesity, with a focus on understanding how nutrients affect gene expression. Researchers aim to prevent obesity by identifying key biological compounds and their impact on metabolism., Pet obesity affects over 50% of US dogs and cats, leading to chronic disease and reduced lifespan.
A powerful M6.5 solar flare was detected by NASA on April 11, 2013, which also triggered an Earth-directed coronal mass ejection (CME). The CME caused a geomagnetic storm, potentially affecting electronic systems in satellites and on the ground.
A new genetic screen has identified the MKK4 gene as a promising therapeutic target to enhance liver regeneration. The study reveals that inhibiting MKK4 can increase hepatocyte production and survival, leading to healthier livers and improved long-term survival in mice.
Scientists at Scripps Research Institute discover that type 1 interferon proteins initiate persistent infections and limit antiviral immune responses in mice. Blocking interferon receptors earlier restores antiviral immunity and virus clearance.
A new study suggests that bone-marrow grafts may be effective in treating low-back pain, with patients experiencing significant improvements in pain relief and activity tolerance. The procedure involves injecting a concentrated form of bone-marrow cellular aspirate into affected discs.
A study of over 4 million Veterans Health Administration records found that patients with severe psychosocial dysfunction and medical needs frequently visit the ER. Improved health outcomes may be achieved through increased spending on social services, such as housing subsidies and income supplements.
Physicists at Georgia Tech studied how quantum information propagates through Bose-Einstein condensates, establishing the top speed for quantum computer communication. The research could address the decoherence problem and enable ultra-fast computing.
Researchers have found that people can perceive flavors in foods before tasting them, and the eyes play a crucial role in this process. Studies have shown that smells can even override taste buds, making certain flavors undetectable.
The MacArthur Foundation has awarded Carnegie Mellon University a $175,000 grant to investigate the role of social media and big data analytics in advancing human rights protection. The project aims to analyze the effectiveness of these technologies in gathering and analyzing data on human suffering and political repression.
Despite identifying effective treatments for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), most mental health professionals fail to use them, leaving patients without access to crucial care. Prolonged exposure therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy have been proven highly effective in addressing PTSD symptoms, yet they are not widely adopted.
Researchers found that playing sounds synchronized with slow brain oscillations during sleep enhances these oscillations and boosts memory. The approach is non-invasive and easy to apply, making it a potential tool for improving sleep and enhancing memory.
A study by Christian Rodriguez-Enriquez and colleagues found that female flies can expel and consume male ejaculate after copulation, potentially biasing paternity. The researchers also discovered that well-fed females were more likely to consume ejaculate, which may have positive health benefits in arid environments.
Researchers found that dexmedetomidine alleviated symptoms of opioid-induced hyperalgesia in patients receiving high doses of remifentanil. Patients treated with dexmedetomidine reported less pain and used less morphine compared to those receiving placebo.
New research combines formal philosophy, social psychology, and decision theory to understand how info-tech amplifies irrational group behaviour. This phenomenon can lead to 'informational cascades', online discussions in echo chambers, and threaten democratic discourse.
Researchers developed ultrathin, flexible optoelectronic devices, including LEDs the size of individual neurons, to illuminate brain mysteries. These devices enable precise control and direct interaction with brain tissue, opening up new ways for neuroscientists to study complex behaviors and neural circuits.
Scientists have engineered a protein from flesh-eating bacteria to act as a molecular 'superglue' that adheres tightly and resists harsh conditions. This technology has potential applications in diagnostic tests for early detection of cancer cells and other diseases, offering new possibilities for medical breakthroughs.
Researchers at Case Western Reserve University developed a new material system that permits 3D patterning to regulate stem cell behavior, offering promise for studying influences on cell fate decisions. The technique enables local control over cell proliferation and differentiation, potentially allowing the engineering of complex tissues.
Research found that mutations in neuroligin-3 protein block endocannabinoid signals, affecting brain excitability and communication between neurons. The study suggests targeting the endocannabinoid system may help reverse autism symptoms.
A study found that racial disparities in end-of-life care among US adults with kidney failure are substantial and vary by region. Black patients are less likely to discontinue dialysis and be referred to hospice compared to white patients, especially in high-end life spending regions.
LSUHSC researchers identify LKB1 and Nischarin as a functional duo that regulate breast cancer cell migration and tumor growth. The study provides insight into the molecular mechanisms of tumor suppressor genes.
A new Lancet Series provides evidence for treating and preventing diarrhoea and pneumonia, with interventions like vaccination and zinc supplementation potentially saving millions of lives. Modest further investment could eliminate diarrhoea deaths in just over a decade.
Scientists have discovered a potential treasure trove of enzymes in fungi thriving in horse feces that can break down cellulose in non-food plants. The enzymes, found in a fungus isolated from the digestive tract of horses, have the potential to simplify and reduce the cost of biofuel production.
Researchers found that only 22% of manipulated responses were corrected, while 92% of participants accepted and endorsed the reversed political survey score. This suggests that people can reason about issues with considerable openness to change, contradicting traditional polling assumptions.
Researchers found that animals use various methods to self-medicate, including learning and innate behaviors. This practice has significant implications for the ecology and evolution of animal hosts and their parasites.
GapSense software controls traffic to dramatically reduce interference, enabling devices to communicate more efficiently and reducing collisions by up to 45%. The technology could also address the 'hidden terminal' problem and reduce energy consumption of WiFi devices.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Children's Center found that a previously minor protein called EPAC2 plays a central role in regulating insulin production. The study suggests that targeting EPAC2 with drugs could potentially restore pancreatic cell function and reverse Type 2 diabetes.
Researchers have shed light on microglial cells in Alzheimer's patients, finding they lose two biological functions as the disease progresses. The study suggests beta-amyloid peptides trigger this process, and reversing microglial function could lead to treatments for the disease.
Researchers publish six papers detailing the anatomy of Au. Sediba, a 2-million-year-old early human ancestral remains. The study provides detailed insights into its movement patterns, dental morphology, and phylogenetic position, offering new perspectives on hominin evolution.
Researchers have discovered that rising temperature induces key changes in the dengue virus when it enters its human host, leading to a new approach for designing vaccines against the aggressive mosquito-borne pathogen. The study found that the virus's bumpy form is more efficient at infecting mammalian cells.
Researchers identify mTORC1 protein as a key player in controlling blood pressure and link its abnormal activation to cardiovascular disease and obesity. Targeting this pathway may lead to better hypertension treatments for at-risk patients.
People with apple-shaped bodies are more likely to develop kidney disease due to lower kidney function, lower kidney blood flow, and higher blood pressure within the kidneys. Treatments that reduce kidney blood pressure may be beneficial for these individuals.
Researchers found diverse consequences of opioid use in patients with sickle cell disease, including biological, psychological, social, and spiritual effects. The study used a grounded theory approach to gather data from 21 African-American adults with SCD, revealing divergent effects on relationships, productivity, mood, and outlook.
Researchers found that even with multiple individuals contributing to a common cause, group presence reduces an individual's willingness to help. Fundraising strategies can be influenced by social factors, such as emphasizing personal donations and avoiding group interactions.
Researchers found that temporarily blocking a critical protein helps the immune system fight off chronic infection, reversing many immune problems. The discovery suggests new approaches to treating persistent viral infections like HIV and hepatitis C.
Researchers have developed a cost-effective method to convert ethanol into butanol, a more efficient and sustainable fuel source. The new catalysts enable higher selectivity and conversion rates, making butanol an attractive alternative to gasoline.
Researchers discovered that nalmefene significantly reduces alcohol consumption and improves patients' clinical status and liver enzymes. The medication is well-tolerated with mild to moderate side effects.
A new study by Brown University researchers found that fat leaves evolved a three-dimensional vein structure to store water and sustain efficient photosynthesis. This evolution allowed leaves to become thicker without compromising hydraulic performance, enabling plants like succulents to thrive in arid conditions.
Patients with untreated sleep apnoea are more likely to fail a driving simulator test and report nodding whilst driving. The study found that 24% of sleep apnoea patients failed the test compared to 12% of controls.
Cyclone Victoria appears as a 'J' shape due to thunderstorms wrapping around the eastern side of the storm. The cyclone is weakening rapidly due to wind shear and dropping sea surface temperatures.
Sanofi launches large-scale production of partially synthetic artemisinin, a breakthrough in synthetic biology. The drug, developed by Professor Jay Keasling's team, aims to provide stable supply and low cost for developing countries.
Researchers found a few hundred super-enhancers control key genes in healthy cells, but cancer cells create their own to overproduce harmful oncogenes leading to aggressive tumors.
Researchers at UC San Diego identified fractalkine as a new therapeutic target for treating type 2 diabetes. Administering the protein stimulated insulin secretion and improved glucose tolerance in mouse models and human islets.
A recent study at McGill University found that the nucleus accumbens and auditory cortex interact to assign value to music through pattern recognition and prediction. This interaction involves ancient dopaminergic reward circuitry and is essential for our survival and emotional experiences.
Researchers have identified a novel surface marker called Cd1d to isolate mammary gland stem cells with unprecedented purity. This breakthrough allows for high-degree profiling of normal and cancer stem cells, potentially leading to the development of new breast cancer drug targets.
Annals of Internal Medicine and ACP honor Adrienne Allen, MD, MPH, and Matthew Spitzer, MD, for their groundbreaking research on patient safety and erectile dysfunction. The awards highlight the importance of rigorous methodology and potential impact on clinical practice.
Cyclone Victoria intensified overnight with a tighter storm circulation and possible eye formation, according to NASA imagery from April 10, 2013. The cyclone is located near Australia, moving south-southeast at 8 knots, and is in an area of low wind shear but will face increased wind shear as it heads further south.
Researchers at Karolinska Institutet have developed a method to induce the sensation of having a phantom hand in non-amputated individuals. Participants experienced an invisible hand when touched, revealing that multisensory integration can lead to embodiment of empty space.
CU-Boulder students are playing a major role in developing and flying small satellites, including CubeSat satellites, with NASA. The university has been awarded numerous launch opportunities for these tiny satellites, worth up to $300,000 each.
A novel artificial neural connection bridges the lost pathway between brain and spinal cord, allowing for volitional control of upper limb movement after damage. This study demonstrates that artificial neural connections can compensate for interrupted descending pathways and promote voluntary control.
A novel study suggests that surgical removal of an ovary and visible endometriosis significantly lower ovarian cancer risk in women with endometriosis. Hormonal treatments, however, did not show a protective effect against ovarian cancer.
A new University of Michigan Medical School study reveals that certain antipsychotic medications may help normalize the activity of genes involved in communication between brain cells. The research found similarities in gene expression patterns among patients treated with these medications and those without bipolar disorder, suggesting...
Researchers from the University of Bonn have found the oldest known dinosaur embryos in China, shedding light on the rapid growth and high reproductive rate of these ancient animals. The discoveries provide valuable insights into the biology of dinosaurs, including their development and behavior.
Research suggests that individuals with an apple-shaped body distribution may experience lower kidney function and higher blood pressure within the kidneys, increasing their risk of developing kidney disease. Treatments that reduce kidney blood pressure could be beneficial for these individuals.
Researchers at the University of Wisconsin-Madison have developed a new screening process that simplifies non-viral transfection, providing more precise control over stem cell behavior. The method uses calcium phosphate coatings to deliver genetic material to cells, resulting in up to a 70-fold increase in successful gene expression.
Researchers identified a defective gene responsible for isolated congenital asplenia (ICA), a rare disorder characterized by the absence of the spleen. The RPSA gene mutation affects approximately 50% of patients with ICA, leading to a lack of splenic tissue.
A reanalysis of the WHOACT data found an increased risk of fetal death for women with reduced antenatal visits, particularly between 32 and 36 weeks. The study suggests that routine antenatal visits may detect asymptomatic conditions earlier, allowing timely intervention.
Researchers studying Australopithecus sediba's fossil find that its conical ribcage made it difficult to swing its arms while walking or running. The species' unique foot structure also suggests it walked with feet turned inward, setting it apart from other australopiths.
A new study found that average-risk screening adenoma detection rates are significantly higher than current guidelines suggest, with women having a 25.4% risk and men having a 41.2% risk. Overall advanced-pathology adenoma detection was also higher in men, highlighting the need for vigilance in identifying patients with adenomas to pre...
Researcher Peter Vekilov will test his theories on crystal formation in space, studying how liquids transform into crystals. His work could lead to more efficient large-scale production methods.
Scientists have developed a new numerical method for simulating the evolution of the solar system, which is ten times faster and more accurate than previous methods. The collaboration between mathematicians, computer scientists, physicists, and astronomers has led to a significant improvement in the simulation's reliability over time.
A study of college freshmen women found that excessive media use, particularly social networking and texting, was associated with lower GPAs and other negative academic outcomes. However, newspaper reading and listening to music were positively correlated with academic performance.
Researchers developed a website to recruit potential subjects for a clinical pain trial, offering multiple methods for attracting and interacting with participants. The site contains prescreening questionnaires, informational videos, and allows study coordinators to view accrued applicant information.
Researchers found that rats preferred potato chips over bland chow due to an unknown ingredient sparking the brain's reward center. This study sheds light on hedonic hyperphagia, a condition causing people to overeat for pleasure.
A new device allows cellphone cameras to take images from fluorescent microscopes and flow cytometers, enabling areas with limited resources to conduct tests such as checking for contaminated water and monitoring HIV positive patients. The device is expected to be helpful in resource-poor countries and fast-paced clinical environments.
Researchers at Heidelberg University Hospital have developed a new method to detect drug interactions at very low doses, which can be used to study interactions between drugs without posing risks to patients. This breakthrough improves the reliability of pharmacological studies and has the potential to reduce medication errors.
NASA's Aqua satellite captured smoke and heat signatures from fires in Victoria's national parks on April 9, 2013. The affected areas include Snowy River, Errinundra, and Coopracamba National Parks.
The American Cancer Society's report emphasizes the importance of reducing tobacco use, improving nutrition and physical activity, and expanding cancer screening tests. The report notes significant declines in cigarette smoking prevalence but highlights concerns about heavy smoking, indoor tanning, and HPV vaccination coverage.
The American College of Physicians (ACP) and the Federation of State Medical Boards (FSMB) have released a policy paper providing guidance on best practices for physicians' online behavior. The recommendations aim to preserve trust in patient-physician relationships and protect patient interests when using social media.
A national marine biodiversity observation network is proposed to track ocean ecosystem health, monitor trends, and facilitate proactive responses to environmental pressures. The study recommends coordination of existing efforts, digitization of historical data, and establishment of regional centers to process and identify specimens.
Researchers have empirically calibrated the Maya Long Count calendar to the modern European calendar using carbon-14 dating, offering a more accurate understanding of Maya dates relative to historic events. The study's findings suggest that climate change played an important role in the development and demise of the complex civilization.
Researchers found a consistent pattern of activity across individuals in several brain structures, including those involved in movement planning, memory, and attention. The study suggests that higher-level centers direct subcortical auditory structures to respond preferentially to music.
Researchers from Grand Valley State University and the University of Notre Dame are investigating how watershed environments affect contaminant levels in stream resident fish. The study aims to develop a mathematical process that predicts changes to the watershed landscape on native fish populations.
Scientists developed tiny devices containing light-emitting diodes (LEDs) to activate brain cells with light. Using these devices, mice were taught to poke their noses through a hole in a maze, triggering the system to release dopamine and associate rewards, revealing potential for treating depression, anxiety, and addiction.
A new study by King's College London and University of Arizona scientists has found deep similarities in brain regulation between arthropods and vertebrates, shedding light on evolution and disease mechanisms. The discovery suggests a common evolutionary origin for brain circuits underlying behavioral choice.
A study found significant racial disparities in end-of-life care among US adults with kidney failure, with black patients less likely to be referred to hospice and discontinue dialysis compared to white patients. The differences were most pronounced in regions with the highest levels of end-of-life spending.
Researchers have identified two key compounds produced by mast cells that promote fibrogenesis, leading to pulmonary fibrosis. Introducing mast cells into mice lungs can reverse disease protection and cause pulmonary fibrosis.