A study by Professor Lesley Campbell and Dr Arthur Jenkins reveals that rare genetic defects are responsible for most of the problem with obesity and type 2 diabetes. The researchers found that many genes are involved, each contributing a unique genetic story, making it difficult to develop a single anti-obesity drug or treatment.
NASA's TRMM satellite detected powerful thunderstorms reaching 10 miles high in Hurricane Henriette, which dropped heavy rainfall. The storm's towering clouds, known as 'hot towers,' played a role in its formation and intensification.
A study by Jordan Smith found that residents in growing communities trust information from family members, churches, and local newspapers more than elected officials or national news sources. This shift can lead to conflicts over values and ideologies, complicating long-term environmental and community planning.
Researchers have developed a new method to produce artificial ball lightning in the lab, revealing its structure and behavior for the first time. The study provides crucial insights into this mysterious phenomenon, which occurs only once in every million lightning bolts.
Scientists discover a new method to convert waste cooking oil and lard into olefins, a key ingredient in making plastics. This breakthrough could reduce reliance on petroleum-based plastics and promote more sustainable alternatives.
Scientists from Norwich BioScience Institute have gathered data to assess the hazards of lower temperature cooking in sous vide, filling a knowledge gap. They propose a way forward to ensure consistent and effective safety assessments, commensurate with any risk to public health.
Tropical Storm Gil's cloud top temperatures warmed since the previous day, indicating a loss of thunderstorms' ability to form more powerful storms. As the storm weakened, it ceased to be a tropical cyclone and continued moving south of Hawaii.
A high-fat diet fed to pregnant rats for 20 days resulted in preeclampsia-like syndromes and increased expression of metabotropic glutamate receptor 1 in the rat hippocampus. This finding suggests that controlling fat intake may be crucial in preventing pregnancy-induced eclampsia.
Researchers have successfully induced differentiation of Wharton's jelly mesenchymal stem cells into retinal progenitor cells, offering a promising new treatment option for visual impairment in retinal degenerative diseases. The study demonstrates the potential of these stem cells as seed cells for clinical treatment.
Researchers applied simple math to a long-studied biological process, finding that catabolite repression is controlled by the difference between glucose and other essential nutrients. This discovery demonstrates the power of quantitative biology in elucidating complex biological processes.
Researchers have discovered a new effect that enables easier production of spin-polarized currents necessary for magnetic chip switching. This breakthrough could lead to more efficient and robust magnetic Random Access Memories (MRAMs) for information processing.
A study of retired NFL players found no evidence to support the theory that they suffer from a unique cognitive disorder. The researchers discovered that players with possible cognitive impairment had patterns of impairments similar to non-athletes with mild cognitive impairment.
Researchers discovered a 165-million-year-old fossilized skeleton of the ancient mammal Megaconus mammaliaformis in Northeast China. The animal had striking cusps on its teeth for crushing hard plant material and powerful jaws for eating tough plants.
The National Estuarine Research Reserve System faces increasing climate-related stressors, threatening coastal ecosystems and human communities. Climate sensitivity was highest in southern East Coast reserves, which provide ideal locations to assess climate change impacts.
A new study from Huntsman Cancer Institute suggests that family members of children with cancer may be at higher risk of developing childhood cancer, depending on their family medical history. The research recommends collecting three generations of family medical history for all newly diagnosed pediatric cancer patients.
Researchers developed a powerful micro-supercapacitor, just nanometres thick, that can store more energy and provide more power per unit volume than state-of-the-art supercapacitors. The device has potential applications in miniaturized technologies, including implantable medical devices and RFID tags.
Recent studies have reported discouraging results for endovascular treatment of acute stroke, but a commentary suggests it remains a viable option for certain patients. A new study also finds no evidence that obesity affects outcomes in subarachnoid hemorrhage patients.
Physicists have built a theoretical construct of twisted atom beams, which can have potential applications in quantum communication and atomic processes. These beams were created by solving the non-relativistic Schrödinger equation for atoms driven by a laser field.
The discovery of Megaconus mammaliaformis sheds light on the evolution of modern mammals, revealing a 165-million-year-old proto-mammal with hair and fur. The fossil, found in Inner Mongolia, China, provides evidence that key biological functions related to skin and integument evolved before the rise of modern mammals.
A new study found that people experiencing sudden cardiac arrest at exercise facilities have a higher chance of survival than at other indoor locations. The study looked at 849 cases in Seattle and King County, Wash., and found that traditional exercise facilities had the highest survival rates.
Researchers from RIKEN have developed a highly efficient molecular probe, Eprobe, for real-time PCR monitoring and genetic testing. The new technology enables advanced assays for DNA-based genetic testing and helps bring genome-wide sequencing studies to patients in the clinic.
Researchers at the University of Washington published a comprehensive portrait of the genome of HeLa cell line, shedding light on its unique replication properties and stability. The study also highlights the importance of haplotypes in characterizing cancer genomes and epigenomes.
Researchers have developed a new method to insert DNA into living cells with greater-than-ever control, using a combination of femtosecond lasers and optical tweezers. This technique allows for precise pokes on the surface of a single cell and gentle insertion of DNA.
Research found that five-to-six-year-old children are more likely to exhibit altruistic behavior towards peers who demonstrate helpfulness. Observing positive interactions with other children evokes positive emotions and encourages bystanders to reciprocate with kindness.
Researchers at Tel Aviv University have created a novel printing process to produce micro-electromechanical systems (MEMS) components from a highly flexible and non-toxic organic polymer. This innovation enables the creation of biocompatible MEMS for medical devices, such as bionic arms and smart prosthetics.
A two-year prevention programme for disruptive kindergarten children may help reduce substance use in adolescence. The study found that levels of drug and alcohol use across adolescence were lower in those who received the intervention.
The NIH has reached an agreement with the Lacks family to allow controlled access to the whole genome data of HeLa cells, a valuable reference tool for researchers. The policy respects the family's wishes while enabling scientific progress and includes public acknowledgement of their contribution.
A biodegradable plastic, dissolvable suture material has shown promise in reducing hospital stays for patients with brain infections. The material released vancomycin, a powerful antibiotic that killed many microbes, including MRSA.
Researchers at North Carolina State University have developed solar cells that can restore their effectiveness after degradation due to ultraviolet rays. The device uses a microfluidic regeneration system, mimicking the branching networks found in nature, to replenish photoactive molecules and maintain performance.
A NASA team outlines priorities for a future Europa lander mission to study its potential habitability. The mission would investigate the composition and chemistry of Europa's ocean and the thickness, uniformity, and dynamics of its icy shell.
Research published in PLOS ONE found that physical handicaps like being tied down make men overestimate an opponent's size and underestimate their own. This effect persists even when anxiety is ruled out, suggesting an automatic processing of physical capacities towards potential conflicts with others.
Dr Lindsay Hall's five-year research project will investigate the establishment of infant gut bacterial communities and their protection against infection. The study aims to explore new probiotic bacteria to restore the microbial community and enhance the body's ability to fight infection.
Scientists have found two strains of bacteria that work together to convert nitrogen into usable forms in the ocean. The partnership, between Thioploca and anammox, intensifies the nitrogen cycle and creates localized zones where fixed nitrogen is depleted faster than expected.
The new alliances are helping to soften the impact of funding cuts and providing industry partners with access to fundamental research. This collaboration is leading to the introduction of new college courses in areas like green chemistry, benefiting cash-strapped academic labs and preparing students for success in industry workplaces.
Research at Duke University found that practice in estimating and comparing quantities can improve math abilities, particularly for symbolic math skills. The study tested adult volunteers before and after training sessions, showing significant improvement in math test scores compared to a control group.
A team of scientists has mapped the complex neural connectivity in a fly's brain essential for vision, revealing new insights into how flies detect motion. The researchers used a high-throughput approach to chart neuronal connections involved in motion detection, identifying 379 cells and 8,637 connections between them.
A new study published in PLOS ONE found that the setting of scientific peer review panels, such as using teleconferencing technology, has little effect on the outcome of the review process. The researchers reviewed over 1,600 grant applications and found that panelists engaged less discussion during teleconference reviews.
Researchers at Max Planck Institute of Neurobiology discovered the cells responsible for processing motion in fruit flies, showing that motion information is processed independently in two separate pathways. The findings highlight the importance of understanding how neurons work together to enable complex behaviors.
Research suggests that believing in precognition can provide a psychological boost to perceived control, particularly when individuals feel a loss of control. People who experienced loss of control reported increased belief in precognition and subsequently felt more in control.
Researchers at Columbia University Medical Center created DNA nanorobots that can identify and tag specific human cells based on multiple surface proteins. This allows for precise targeting of cancer cells with minimal impact on healthy cells, potentially revolutionizing cancer treatment.
A study of over 2,000 patients aged 65+ found a strong association between higher blood sugar levels and increased dementia risk. Higher glucose levels were linked to a 40% increased risk in people with diabetes.
Organic solar cells have been found to improve their performance by manipulating the 'spin' of electrons, which can block energy collapse and increase current from the cell. This breakthrough could close the gap between organic and silicon solar cells, bringing large-scale deployment closer to reality.
In July 2013, Oregon's severe drought and thunderstorms ignited dozens of difficult-to-control wildfires. The fires burned nearly 144,688 acres across the state, with smoke posing health risks to residents. Firefighters battled the blazes, including the Douglas Complex and Big Windy Complex, which collectively burned over 50,000 acres.
Researchers have discovered a synthetic, high-performance polymer that improves efficiency by reducing electrical charge loss. The material's unique quantum mechanical property, electron 'spin,' enables it to 'rescue' charges from energy-losing pathways.
Researchers have developed a new polymer membrane that improves the stability and conductivity of alkaline fuel cells while reducing the need for expensive platinum catalysts. This breakthrough could make fuel cells more affordable and accessible, offering an alternative to traditional technology.
A new analysis of cosmic microwave background radiation data has taken the furthest look back in time, revealing an excess of radiation that may indicate the presence of primordial neutrinos or dark energy. The findings challenge current theories on the universe's early expansion history.
Scientists at Penn's Annenberg School for Communication found that inaction-related words in the environment can influence self-control, triggering unconscious behavior to stop over-indulging. The study challenged traditional theories that inhibition requires conscious control.
New UEA research reveals that moderate exercise may slow the progression of tendon disease by decreasing enzymes that degrade tendon tissue. The study showed a positive effect on tendons, suggesting a potential therapeutic approach to managing this debilitating condition.
A Caltech team has engineered a miniature silicon system to produce squeezed light, a type of ultraquiet light useful for precise measurements. The system, which reduces quantum fluctuations, enables the creation of precision microsensors capable of beating standard limits set by quantum mechanics.
Researchers at UCLA invented a tool called research maps, which helps neuroscientists quickly scan existing knowledge, plan their next study, and optimize investments. The maps classify information into categories and score the weight of evidence based on criteria such as reproducibility and convergence.
Research found that every extra hour of TV beyond recommendations decreases vocabulary and math skills, classroom engagement, victimization by classmates, and physical prowess at kindergarten. Existing viewing recommendations from the American Academy of Pediatrics are not sufficient to prevent these negative effects.
Researchers developed a fluorescent caffeine detector that lights up like a traffic light to indicate the amount of caffeine in drinks. The sensor can help prevent caffeine overdoses and is useful for detecting pollution in natural water systems.
Researchers used a new electron microscopy method to study high-pressure samples of carbon, detecting unexpected atom types and locations within minerals. The findings explain how large amounts of carbon reside in the Earth's interior, addressing a long-standing problem.
A team of researchers has discovered that healthy brain cells segregate amyloid precursor protein (APP) and beta-secretase enzyme (BACE-1) into distinct compartments, preventing their combination and triggering Alzheimer's disease. This separation mechanism may hold the key to understanding how AD develops in some individuals.
Research shows a two-century-long historical shift towards individualistic psychological functioning in urban environments, away from rural adaptations. Word frequencies analyzed using Google Ngram Viewer reveal increasing use of 'choose', 'get', and 'feel', reflecting changing values and mental life.
A large nationwide study found that people with rheumatoid arthritis are at a higher risk of developing potentially fatal blood clots in the legs and lungs. The study revealed that patients with rheumatoid arthritis were more than twice as likely to develop these clots, with the risk being highest among younger adults.
As people age, their memory-making abilities decrease due to the loss of GluN2B subunits in NMDA receptors, but research suggests that lifestyle changes can help mitigate this decline. Studies have shown that genetic therapy can restore some subunits and improve cognitive function in laboratory mice.
The DynoTRAIN project aims to establish virtual testing as a valid route to certification for rail vehicles. Researchers used real-world track data and simulated the dynamic behavior of railway vehicles to build mathematical tools that can synthesize data into representative virtual test environments.
A UCLA analysis of over 1.5 million books shows how cultural values have changed, revealing individualism and materialistic values on the rise.
Cases of children ingesting magnets led to a quintupling of incidents between 2002 and 2011. Ingestion of multiple magnets resulted in more severe outcomes, including emergency surgery.
Researchers at Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center discovered that the tumor-suppressor gene A20 is silenced due to the loss of microRNA-29, leading to increased levels of NF-kB and tumor progression. This finding could guide the development of more effective therapies for soft-tissue sarcomas.
A study found cisplatin-induced ototoxicity in mice is mediated by calpain 1 and 2, particularly calpain 2. Calpain's role suggests potential for clinical prevention and treatment strategies to mitigate deafness caused by cisplatin.
A protein involved in nerve-cell migration is implicated in the spread of brain cancer, according to new research from the University of Illinois at Chicago. The study found that cadherin11 promotes cancer cell migration and invasion by regulating cell adhesion and movement.
Researchers found that full activation of a crucial brain-signaling molecule requires coordinated motion of its segments. The study may reveal additional drug-binding sites on the receptor, aiding the development of drugs for conditions like epilepsy and Parkinson's disease.
Researchers found that people with sleep apnea are at a significantly higher risk of developing open-angle glaucoma compared to those without the condition. The study recommends clinicians alert patients about this association to encourage treatment.
Researchers at MIT and Max Planck Institute have mapped the wiring diagram of a tiny patch of mouse retina using a combination of human and artificial intelligence. They identified 950 neurons, including a new type of retinal cell, and classified most of them based on their connections with other neurons.
NASA's Aqua satellite captured infrared data showing very cold cloud top temperatures of strong thunderstorms around Tropical Storm Mangkhut's center before landfall in northern Vietnam. The storm is expected to dissipate within 24 hours after making landfall about 65 miles south of Hanoi.
Researchers used computer simulations to demonstrate that ice-age/warm-period interchange depends on the alternating influence of continental ice sheets and climate. The team found that large-scale glaciation alters sea levels and ocean currents, affecting the climate.
Researchers have identified a biomarker called ST2 that can predict the risk of graft-versus-host disease in stem cell transplant patients. Patients with high ST2 levels are more likely to experience severe immune responses and die within six months of the transplant.
Aristolochic acid, a plant compound in herbal remedies, causes upper urinary tract cancers through a distinct DNA mutational signature. The Johns Hopkins and Stony Brook study used whole-exome sequencing to identify this signature, which was found in 19 Taiwanese cancer patients exposed to the toxin.
Researchers found that a specific pattern in tumor pathology is strongly associated with cancer recurrence. Patients with this pattern are more likely to benefit from lobectomy and have a 75% lower risk of recurrence. The study may lead to new technology to precisely identify tumors with this pattern before surgery.
Using surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS), scientists can distinguish between adult stem cells, enabling the use of healthy ones in therapies. This technique holds promise for advancing stem cell and other cell-based therapies to treat diseases like Parkinson's.
Researchers use NASA satellite data to track zebra movements and predict migration timing, revealing the importance of environmental cues. The study combines GPS tracking with satellite imagery and rainfall data to understand what drives animal migrations.
Brandeis researchers have discovered a previously unknown molecular temperature sensor in fruit flies, which belongs to a protein family responsible for sensing tastes and smells. The discovery provides insights into how insects respond to temperature and may help scientists develop more effective repellents or traps.
Researchers investigated brain activation during reading of Chinese characters with and without hand-radicals using fMRI. They found that characters with hand-radicals activated the right medial frontal gyrus, supporting embodied semantics theory.
The European Society of Cardiology's ESC Congress 2013 received a record number of abstract submissions, with nearly 10,500 entries. The congress will feature four Hot Lines press conferences, discussing innovative treatments for conditions such as venous thromboembolism and myocardial infarction.
A persistent high-pressure weather pattern contributed to the heat wave, which saw temperatures reach 32° Celsius in northern Siberia. The fires are burning in an unusual area, significantly north of the typical summer wildfire zone.
Researchers at Scripps Research Institute found a crucial molecular signal guiding brain development in the neocortex. The discovery may aid research on autism, schizophrenia, and other psychiatric conditions by understanding how molecules like reelin regulate neuron migration.
Researchers at UTSA and SwRI are developing a synthetic drug-loaded scaffold for bone grafting, which could improve treatment outcomes for patients with large bone defects. The scaffold would be scalable and include drug-microparticles that release active growth factors to promote bone cell formation.
Researchers found that controlling inflammation in the lower spinal cord is critical to the success of treadmill training after a spinal cord injury. Early training with minimal inflammation led to significant improvements in walking, lasting up to 42 days, while late training failed to produce similar results.
A new set of guidelines aims to reduce radical surgery and extend survival time for men with penile cancer, providing better quality of life. The guidelines offer various treatment options, including non-radical surgeries, laser therapy, radiation therapy, and radiochemotherapy.
A new study reveals that giant bacteria like Thioploca are invaded by anammox bacteria, which steal their nitrogen, leading to reduced algal growth and less food for marine organisms. This discovery may impact ocean productivity and have implications for fish life and fisheries.
A new two-minute assessment tool has been developed to help hospital staff identify patients at risk of developing delirium, a condition characterized by severe confusion and disorientation. The tool, termed AWOL, uses elements that can be assessed quickly in the fast-paced environment of a hospital.
A University of Oregon study reveals how librarians adapted to the Internet by redefining their occupational identity from expert knowledge to interpreting and connecting patrons with relevant information
A Penn study found that psoriasis patients with more severe skin disease are at higher odds of having major medical diseases, including lung disease, heart problems, and kidney issues. The researchers identified a common pathway involving TH-1 cytokines promoting inflammation and insulin resistance.
A study published in PLOS ONE found that dogs yawn contagiously and respond more frequently to their owner's yawns than a stranger's. The researchers suggest that this may be an emotionally connected behavior similar to humans.
A study in AIP Advances describes a muon imaging technique that could help assess damage within the reactor's core, locate melted fuel and potentially reduce radiation doses. The method uses naturally occurring muons to image dense objects, offering advantages over traditional muon imaging.
Recent research suggests that oxidative stress and mitochondrial damage are key contributors to the development of neurodegenerative diseases. The study highlights the importance of mitigating mitochondrial dysfunction as a potential therapeutic strategy for treating various neurodegenerative diseases.
A new system, nEmesis, uses machine-learning and crowdsourcing to analyze millions of tweets to find reports of likely food poisoning following a restaurant visit. The system ranks restaurants according to how likely it is for someone to become ill after visiting that restaurant.
A study of 60 older adults found that consuming two cups of hot cocoa per day for 30 days improved blood flow to the brain and enhanced working memory skills. The participants who started with impaired blood flow showed significant improvements in these areas, while those with regular blood flow showed no change.
Researchers found that plants can eavesdrop on herbivore cues, including snail slime, to mount a defensive response before being attacked. The study shows plants can use generalist herbivore cues in a sophisticated way to trigger defense mechanisms.
Researchers have discovered a key role played by TACC3-ch-TOG-clathrin in forming inter-microtubule bridges that stabilise kinetochore fibres during mitosis. Removing this protein team can induce cells to arrest and die, potentially providing a new approach to cancer treatment.
Research found that C-section infants had a narrower range of beneficial bacteria in their guts compared to vaginally delivered infants. This has implications for the development of their immune systems and risk of allergies. The study also found lower levels of Th1 chemical messengers, which can contribute to allergic diseases.
Scientists have developed a new way to predict turbulent flow near walls, which could reduce drag by 30% and save the global economy billions in fuel costs. This breakthrough has the potential to optimize vehicle performance and reduce emissions.
A Marshall University researcher has developed a technology for repairing skin injuries using nanotechnology. The $20,000 grant will help produce device prototypes and market the product to potential customers.
A large trial of nearly 3000 participants found that probiotic supplements did not reduce the incidence of antibiotic-associated diarrhea. The study also showed no difference in the frequency and severity of diarrhea between those who received probiotics and those who took a placebo.
Researchers are testing a skull-based connector behind the ear for powering heart pumps, aiming to reduce infections at the abdominal site. The study compares two similar devices with internal power cords routed through the neck or behind the ear, seeking better infection prevention and quality of life for patients