A reformulated version of an anti-HIV gel developed for vaginal use was found safe and acceptable by HIV-negative men and women who used it rectally. The study tested a reduced glycerin formulation of tenofovir gel, which showed promise as a microbicide for preventing or reducing the sexual transmission of HIV from unprotected anal sex.
Researchers at the University of Notre Dame have developed a method to create three-dimensional anatomical models from CT scans using 3D printing, holding promise for medical professionals and their patients. The technology enables the rapid production of detailed skeletal and soft tissue structures from X-ray CT data.
The Alpha Magnetic Spectrometer (AMS) collaboration has released the first published results from its experiment on the International Space Station, measuring the ratio of positrons to electrons in cosmic rays with unprecedented precision. This key finding may eventually provide evidence for the existence of dark matter.
Scientists have transmitted a secure quantum code via satellite, promising secure global communication. The experiment uses quantum states of single light quanta, making data transmission virtually un-hackable.
Scientists have identified two compounds, tacrolimus and astemizole, that show anti-prion activity and promise in treating human prion diseases. Astemizole, an antihistamine, stimulates autophagy, a process involved in protein misfolding neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's.
The 2013 Arctic sea ice winter extent was the fifth lowest in the past 35 years, reaching 5.82 million square miles. This decline is part of a long-term trend and is associated with increasing greenhouse gases, which affect the radiation type during Arctic winter.
The North American Cordillera is composed of dozens of crustal blocks that were welded onto the continent over 200 million years. A new study clarifies their mode of origin, identifying a previously unknown oceanic plate that contributed to their assembly.
Researchers found that smoking and depressive symptoms in adolescent girls negatively impact bone accrual and may be associated with lower bone mass or osteoporosis. The study suggests these factors have a negative impact on bone health, increasing the risk of fractures in postmenopausal years.
Researchers at NIST and the University of Maryland have developed an optical memory device using a cloud of rubidium atoms, enabling the storage of simple images. The breakthrough demonstrates spatially addressable readout and erasure of an image in the vapor, paving the way for quantum computing applications.
A new Hong Kong-based study suggests that targeting feelings of mental defeat can prevent severe depression, anxiety, and daily activity interference among chronic pain patients. Mental defeat occurs when pain is viewed as an 'enemy' taking over life and autonomy.
Researchers found that 35% of schizophrenia patients in relapse had UTIs, compared to 5% and 3% of stable outpatients and healthy controls. The association suggests that UTIs may trigger schizophrenia relapse.
Researchers from Princeton University have developed a novel framework to project the mass balance of the Antarctic ice sheet, incorporating uncertainty and expert judgments. This approach provides a comprehensive baseline that can be improved over time, offering a more informative projection of future sea levels.
Researchers from the University of Granada confirmed the effectiveness of a spray containing 1% malic acid in improving xerostomy, or dry mouth, caused by anti-depressant drugs. The study found significant improvements in symptoms and quality of life for patients with this condition.
Researchers at ETH Zurich have developed a new method to analyze the chemical composition of exhaled breath, revealing an individual's unique 'breathprint' that stays constant over time. This non-invasive approach holds promise for early disease detection and monitoring, and could potentially replace traditional blood and urine analysis.
A study by Ohio State University researchers found that graduate students rated publications with male authors as higher quality than those with female authors. The study also showed that certain research topics were seen as more appropriate for women or men, and that gender bias can impact career opportunities.
Researchers at Lund University have developed a new method to investigate the importance of biomechanical factors in the central nervous system. The study found that when the biomechanical balance is disturbed, as happens in eye diseases such as retinal detachment and glaucoma, the normal function of the retina is lost, resulting in se...
Research published in PLOS ONE reveals that freshwater river dolphins use lower frequency biosonar clicks, but their unique head anatomy may help keep signals focused. This study provides a valuable tool for conservation biologists to prevent species decline and estimate population sizes.
Researchers have identified a key player in the development of broadly neutralizing antibodies against HIV, paving the way for potential vaccine discovery. By studying the co-evolution of HIV and an individual's immune response, scientists can identify target proteins to include in vaccines.
Researchers developed a new mathematical tool to determine spacetime's shape from 'sound' pulses caused by quantum fluctuations. This technique connects quantum theory and general relativity via vibrational wavelengths, enabling novel probing of the universe.
Tracking an early immune response, researchers chart a new route for developing a long-sought HIV vaccine that boosts the body's ability to neutralize the virus. The study reveals the co-evolution of antibodies and virus in a person whose immune system mounted a broad attack against the pathogen.
A new form of radiation therapy, BNCT, has been developed by University of Missouri researchers, putting cancer into remission in mice without harmful side effects. The technique targets cancer cells by delivering boron chemicals that shatter and destroy cancer cells from the inside out.
A new study of 1,535 patients with metastatic hormone-sensitive prostate cancer found that taking breaks from hormone-blocking treatments may not be as effective as continuous treatment. The study suggests that patients should be counseled about the potential risks of intermittent therapy if they wish to try it.
A study published in PLOS ONE shows that English speakers can quickly recognize key structures of American Sign Language (ASL) and distinguish syllables from morphemes. However, participants were unable to learn signs that violated the structure of ASL or other known languages.
The monetary cost of dementia in the US is estimated to range from $157 billion to $215 billion annually, surpassing both heart disease and cancer. The majority of costs are associated with institutional and home-based long-term care, rather than medical services.
A team of researchers has found that climate models are too conservative in forecasting tropical changes, as a giant pool of warm water four million years ago suggests. The study, published in Nature, analyzed sea surface temperature records and found that none of the proposed mechanisms can explain the Pliocene era's unique conditions.
Researchers at Case Western Reserve University have created a material that mimics the squid's beak to make medical devices safer and more comfortable. The new material has a mechanical gradient that acts as a shock absorber, reducing wear and tear on surrounding soft tissues.
Researchers at Moffitt Cancer Center found that microRNA-155 overexpression promotes new blood vessel growth, tumor inflammation, and metastasis in breast cancer. Controlling miR-155 expression could inhibit malignant growth, providing a new avenue of treatment.
Research published in PLOS ONE reveals that Wikipedia users value community interaction more than political affiliations. Despite the increasing divide in U.S. politics, the study found no trends indicating a preference for interacting with like-minded individuals within the Wikipedia community. Instead, users engage with others from d...
A new study by the USC Schaeffer Center and RAND Corporation found that patients with high deductibles pay roughly the same amount as traditionally insured patients for most outpatient services. The study suggests that lack of transparency about medical costs and patient loyalty to primary care physicians hinder price comparison, leadi...
Age-related macular degeneration is a leading cause of visual impairment in people over 65, affecting over 9.1 million Americans. Regular screening by an ophthalmologist is critical for early detection and treatment.
A recent survey of over 150,000 people reveals a seven-class structure in the UK, with an elite class and a precariat class marked by economic disadvantage. The traditional working class has fallen to 14% of the population, while new classes such as 'new affluent workers' and 'emergent service worker' have emerged.
Researchers identified a stable, specific 'breathprint' unique to each individual, with variations influenced by diet and health conditions. Breath analysis could become a valuable source of clinical information, similar to other bodily fluids.
A Phase 1 clinical trial tested an antisense treatment for ALS, blocking production of a mutated protein that causes the progressive neurodegenerative disease. The treatment was successfully distributed throughout the central nervous system and showed no serious adverse effects.
Researchers envision cell-based therapeutics as a promising approach to treat critical diseases. Cells can adapt and respond better than small-molecule drugs, offering a more predictable treatment option.
A recent study found that disease surveillance and notification systems performed effectively during the 2009 H1N1 influenza pandemic. The systems were able to quickly identify the novel viral subtype and trigger national and global pandemic plans.
Researchers at Tufts University found a statistical association between dental anesthesia and missing lower wisdom teeth in children. The study suggests that injecting anesthesia into young children may interrupt the development of wisdom teeth.
Decommissioning of aging nuclear power plants in the US is a long, complex process with significant financial implications. The average age of the 104 nukes in the country is just 34 years, prompting concerns about the costs and safety of decommissioning these facilities.
Researchers tracked increasing melt rates since 1979 but July 2012 event was unusually large, prompting study on low-level clouds. Thin clouds allowed solar energy to pass through, trapping heat and pushing temperatures above freezing, contributing to record-breaking ice melt.
New research reveals that invasive green crabs are helping to restore Cape Cod's distressed salt marshes by filling the void left by declining native predators of sesarma crabs. The study found that green crab presence had a significant deterrent effect on sesarma herbivory, allowing grass regrowth in areas previously depleted.
Researchers successfully created interacting single-atom defects on a silicon surface, producing extended quantum states resembling artificial molecular orbitals. These findings represent an important step toward the fabrication of devices at the single-atom limit for applications such as quantum computing.
A new biochemical study confirms sorghum lacks toxic gluten proteins, making it a viable option for those with celiac disease. Sorghum's high nutritional value and traditional use as food in Africa and India also support its potential benefits.
Children's Hospital of Philadelphia collaborates with Pfizer's Centers for Therapeutic Innovation (CTI) to advance pediatric research and development. The partnership aims to identify preclinical research with potential applications for innovative treatments, with a focus on translating scientific insights into bedside therapies.
Scientists have successfully controlled the flow of electrons within layers of a superconductor using terahertz flashes. This technique enables precise switching on and off of superconductivity, paving the way for new applications in information processing.
A new rapid water-quality test could prevent unnecessary beach closures while better protecting the health of swimmers. The test's same-day results can help managers across the country determine whether beaches are safe for recreational use.
Researchers discovered two new symbionts, Cthulhu macrofasciculumque and Cthylla microfasciculumque, living in termite guts that aid wood digestion. These tiny protists were named after Lovecraft's monsters due to their octopus-like movements and appearance.
A new study published in Reproductive Biomedicine Online reveals that blastocysts' fluid-filled cavities contain DNA from the embryo, allowing for diagnosis of genetic diseases without biopsy. Researchers extracted fluid from embryos at the 5-day-old stage and detected cell-free DNA using PCR and DNA microarray analysis.
A study published in Cell Metabolism suggests that macrophage cholesterol accumulation contributes to macular degeneration. Researchers found that eye drops could reduce blood vessel growth and prevent blindness by targeting cholesterol regulators.
Children with autism have excess duplicated DNA segments, which may affect the chances of developing autism. The research found a higher level of genetic changes, including common variants, in children with autism compared to typically developing children.
Researchers found that high ozone levels interfere with pollinators finding flowers and predator insects finding host plants. Insects rely on volatile organic compounds to detect odors, but ozone degrades these compounds, leading to confusion.
Research at the University of Pittsburgh found that bumblebees can taste and discriminate against certain metals like nickel but are more tolerant of aluminum, which may pose a risk to their health
A new study reviews the National Rifle Association's National Shield School Proposal, finding it flawed and expensive. The authors suggest addressing troubled youth and ease of access to weapons as key factors in preventing school violence.
Two Canadian scientists, Dr. Yves Bousquet and Dr. Patrice Bouchard, have updated the nomenclatural and taxonomic data in Pierre Dejean's Coleoptera catalogs. The review of the second (1833) and third (1836) catalogues revealed new synonymies and clarified the usage of genus-group names.
Scientists have developed a new method to create genetically modified mice that accelerates the process by four months, using TALEN enzymes. This technique allows for the efficient production of mouse models for diseases like dementia, reducing the need for numerous test animals.
A University of Cincinnati graduate student archaeologist has discovered that the ancient Puebloans relied on a variety of food sources, including purslane, pinyon nut, and juniper berries, in addition to maize. The findings suggest that the Puebloans' subsistence strategies were more complex and sustainable than previously thought.
A UC San Diego team developed a scalable GPU-accelerated code for earthquake engineering and disaster management, achieving a five-fold speedup over CPU code and sustained performance of one petaflop per second. This breakthrough enables more accurate earthquake predictions with increased physical reality and resolution.
A CU Cancer Center study reveals that the transcription factor SPDEF regulates E-Cadherin production, inhibiting prostate cancer metastasis. The researchers found that increasing or decreasing SPDEF levels directly affects E-Cadherin expression, making it a crucial factor in preventing cancer spread.
Simulations suggest a shift northward, which could increase or decrease seasonal rainfall in areas such as the Amazon, sub-Saharan Africa or East Asia. A warmer northern hemisphere causes atmospheric overturning to weaken in the north and strengthen in the south, shifting rain bands northward.
Researchers at UPV/EHU have created a biodegradable polymer/bioglass composite system that can help mend broken bones. The addition of bioglass to the polymer improves its mechanical properties, but it also reduces thermal stability, which could lead to degradation and harm to cells.
Researchers at the University of Cincinnati have made groundbreaking discoveries in a well-preserved Maya village, including new crop varieties and household gardens. The findings shed light on ancient Maya agriculture and its impact on the natural world.
The UC Davis MIND Institute has received a prestigious Autism Centers of Excellence Award to establish an Autism Center of Excellence and Treatment Network, led by Sally J. Rogers. The award supports two treatment studies on the most effective methods of treating very young children with autism.