A recent study published in PhytoKeys formally transfers Altingia and Semiliquidambar taxa to Liquidambar, a widely distributed tree family with various uses. The analysis includes 15 recognized species and highlights the taxonomic challenges faced by botanists.
Researchers have identified a key 'teenage gene' that plays a role in mental health vulnerability, particularly during adolescence. The DCC gene's dysfunction has been linked to behavioral consequences that persist into adulthood.
Scientists at Technical University of Munich have discovered a way to create natural substances using photoreactions and a special catalyst, reducing the formation of unwanted mirror-image variants. This method has potential for industrial applications in drug development and plant protection.
Researchers found prescribing an apple a day to adults over 50 would prevent or delay 8,500 vascular deaths. This approach matches the efficacy of statins while having fewer side effects.
The World Health Organization study reveals atrial fibrillation affects 33.5 million people worldwide, leading to significant healthcare burden and mortality rates, particularly in developing countries.
The Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC) and Medical Research Council (MRC) have jointly awarded £1.43M to support the development of CCP4, a world-leading x-ray crystallography software resource. This funding renewal aims to further scientific knowledge and promote economic growth through innovative approache...
The photochemical behavior of organic sunscreens in natural waters can influence their environmental fate and ecological risk. Research has shown that photolysis half-lives range from several hours to a month, with dissolved oxygen, pH, and water constituents influencing transformation rates.
A new study by Wildlife Conservation Society reveals that protecting Fiji's forests near the sea is crucial for preserving coral reefs. The study found that terrestrial protected areas benefit both land and coastal ecosystems, highlighting the importance of integrated planning.
Water in cells slows down in tight spaces between proteins, affecting binding sites for pharmaceuticals and disease progression. The findings provide insights into how proteins aggregate in diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's.
A recent study assesses the amount and patterns of sedentary behavior among older women, revealing that most of their waking time is spent in sedentary periods. The findings suggest that total sedentary time increases with age and body mass index, highlighting the importance of addressing this behavior to improve health outcomes.
A large cohort of KRAS exon 2 wild-type mCRC cases were screened for the S492R EGFR mutation without detection. This suggests that the S492R mutation is not involved in primary resistance to cetuximab in CRC, leading to a reevaluation of routine screening prior to treatment with cetuximab.
A new study from the University of British Columbia reveals that reconnecting low-income individuals with feelings of self-worth reduces stigma and improves cognitive function. Participants who engaged in oral self-affirmation techniques demonstrated a ten-point IQ increase and were more likely to seek aid services.
Berkeley Lab researchers find that microscopic fibers of lithium form in the electrolyte during cycling, causing short circuits and overheating. The team discovered subsurface structures underneath dendrites, revealing a clear path forward for enabling widespread use of lithium anodes.
Researchers discovered that the brain reduces data volumes in the primary visual cortex, using image differences to efficiently process sensory information. The study used novel optical imaging methods and found that neurons represent only new or missing elements when the time elapsing between images is longer than 100 milliseconds.
Scientists have developed a new type of molecular motor made of DNA that can transport nanoparticles along the length of a carbon nanotube. The motor uses energy from RNA molecules to fuel its movement, which is controllable and adaptable to changes in the local environment.
A study by Manchester scientists found that women who undergo risk-reducing surgery have increased survival rates compared to those who don't. The research suggests that removing ovaries and fallopian tubes can reduce the risk of both ovarian and breast cancer by half.
The new guidelines recommend using anti-TNF-α biologic agents to induce remission in patients with moderately severe Crohn's disease. The guidelines also provide recommendations for maintenance of remission, including the use of thiopurines or anti-TNF-α drugs.
Researchers from Curtin University found natural radioactivity in DNA can alter molecular structures, creating new molecules that do not belong to the four-letter alphabet of DNA. This could lead to genetic mutations by confusing DNA replication mechanisms.
Using social networks for pre-employment screening can create a negative impression of the company, leading to lower attractiveness and potential lawsuits. Applicants perceive this practice as an invasion of privacy, which can discourage them from accepting job offers.
Researchers at the University of Missouri have developed a three-dimensional 'force microscope' that enables real-time study of membrane proteins in conditions similar to those found in the body. This innovation could lead to faster development of drugs and increased understanding of protein structures and functions.
A new study reveals that publicly expressing regrets can provide emotional support from others, highlighting the social benefits of regret. Additionally, professionals who believe they are least vulnerable to gift-biasing effects are most likely to accept gifts, while peer pressure can easily lead to unethical behavior. Research also s...
Tropical Cyclone Amara strengthened into a tropical storm after NASA's TRMM and Aqua satellites provided visible and rainfall data. The storm is expected to reach hurricane-strength by December 22 as it nears La Reunion Island, with forecasters closely monitoring its progress.
A study published in Stem Cells reveals that bladder cancer originates from distinct stem cells for muscle-invasive and non-muscle invasive types. Genetic profiling identified specific gene signatures associated with each cell population, which predicted tumor stage and patient survival.
Research published in Ecology Letters reveals the ancestor of snakes and lizards likely gave birth to live young, contrary to long-held assumptions. The findings support the idea that live birth has a more ancient past than previously thought, dating back 175 million years ago.
The Endocrine Society's new statement highlights the prevalence and medical consequences of performance-enhancing drug (PED) use among non-athlete weightlifters. PEDs can lead to various health issues, including cardiovascular, psychiatric, metabolic, renal, and musculoskeletal disorders.
ORNL researchers used supercomputers to simulate a molecular switch in a receptor that controls cell behavior, revealing its role in signaling processes. The discovery has significant implications for understanding cellular functions and developing new treatments for diseases.
Researchers have found that controlling levels of reactive oxygen species can break the cycle of wounds that refuse to heal. Antioxidant supplements such as vitamin E and N-Acetyl cysteine were able to normalize conditions and promote healing in chronically infected wounds.
Research finds that suppressing fidgetin enzyme regrows injured nerve cells and their connections, potentially offering a new therapeutic approach for tissue regeneration and repair. The study's findings have implications for treating spinal cord injury, myocardial infarction, and chronic cutaneous wounds.
A study of massive stars confirms the Milky Way has four spiral arms, contradicting previous findings from NASA's Spitzer Space Telescope. The researchers used data from radio telescopes in Australia, USA and China to analyze the distribution of massive stars across the galaxy.
Researchers at The Feinstein Institute for Medical Research have discovered a genetic overlap between schizophrenia and general cognitive ability. This finding provides molecular confirmation of the overlap, revealing that patients with schizophrenia also experience reduced cognitive abilities.
Researchers present a body-wing-blending configuration with double flanking air inlets layout to achieve high lift-to-drag ratio and volumetric efficiency. A novel forebody design methodology using rotating and assembling two waverider-based surfaces is also introduced.
The region supported 21,450 full-time jobs for workers in oil and gas, drilling, support operations, pipeline construction, refineries, and petrochemicals. The study estimates growth in full-time jobs supported by the oil and gas industry could potentially increase by 42.2% from 2012-2022.
Researchers at the University of Sheffield found that avoiding information can be a motivated behavior, not just a practical one. The study suggests that people intentionally hide from information about their goals, such as finances or weight loss, due to fear of negative emotions associated with it.
The MRSA USA300 strain acquired genes from skin bacteria, allowing it to thrive on human skin where other strains cannot. This adaptation enabled the strain to dominate and spread rapidly across the US, becoming the leading cause of community-acquired MRSA infections.
A study published in The BMJ found a significant increase in births in Catalonia nine months after FC Barcelona won three major football trophies. Births rose by 16% in February 2010, with some areas experiencing even higher increases, although the findings fall short of earlier media reports.
Researchers at Children's Hospital of Orange County (CHOC) have identified a new technique that reduces postoperative pain in children following high-risk urology surgeries, resulting in less need for pain medicine. The study evaluates continuous infusion of local anesthesia using the ON-Q pain relief system and shows promising results.
A Mayo Clinic-led study found that pain drugs used in prostate gland removal may be linked to cancer outcomes, as they can suppress the immune system's ability to fight cancer cells. The research suggests that a specific technique using opioids may reduce the risk of cancer recurrence and mortality.
A University of Colorado Cancer Center study found that ALK and ROS1 gene rearrangements, known to drive subsets of lung cancer, are also present in some colorectal cancers. This implies that drugs used to target ALK and ROS1 in lung cancer may have applications in treating a subset of colorectal cancer patients.
The Solar Ultra-Violet Imager (SUVI) is a new telescope that will observe the sun in extreme ultraviolet wavelengths, identifying active regions, solar flares, and eruptions. This will improve space weather forecasting, enabling earlier warnings for potential impacts on Earth's power grids, communication systems, and orbiting satellites.
A systematic review of animal studies found that stem cell therapy can improve sensory and motor outcomes for spinal cord injury patients, with average improvements of 25% in both areas. The study's meta-analysis also revealed important lessons on how to design future animal studies.
Dr. Walter Voit received a DARPA Young Faculty Award to develop medical devices with greater control of prosthetics for wounded soldiers. The goal is to create chronic microstimulation devices that can survive implantation in the body for over a year.
Scientists have identified a biological pathway linking Gaucher disease and Parkinson's disease. The connection is attributed to the accumulation of defective proteins, leading to an overload of cellular machines that dispose of defective proteins. This cascade triggers cell death in dopamine-producing cells, resulting in PD symptoms.
Researchers at Oregon State University have developed genetically modified poplar trees that grow faster, resistant to insect pests and retain genes for up to 14 years. These traits could be particularly valuable in the paper and pulp industries and emerging biofuel sector.
Elsevier has launched an open access journal, Sustainable Materials and Technologies (SM&T), to publish original research articles on sustainable materials and technologies. The journal aims to reduce the knowledge gap between materials and system designs, providing a new venue for rapid publication of research.
University of Utah researchers found roly-poly pikas can survive extreme heat by consuming 60% moss in their diet, setting a new record for fiber intake. The study also revealed these low-elevation pikas build smaller food caches to survive winter, highlighting an unexpected adaptation to climate change.
Researchers at Moffitt Cancer Center have discovered a control mechanism that can trigger the development of myelodysplastic syndromes by promoting inflammation and preventing healthy blood cells from developing. The study found that targeting this mechanism may lead to new treatment options for people with certain blood cancers.
A single strain of Escherichia coli, known as H30-Rx, has become the main cause of bacterial infections worldwide, spreading from urinary tract to blood and causing lethal sepsis. The study's findings suggest that this superbug may be responsible for 1.5 million UTIs and tens of thousands of deaths annually in the US.
A study found that nonsurgical periodontal treatment did not result in improved glycemic control in people with type 2 diabetes and chronic periodontitis. Despite improvements in clinical measures of chronic periodontitis, the treatment had no impact on HbAlc levels.
Researchers at the University of Manchester have developed a novel technique for reprogramming somatic cells into induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells without using viruses, reducing the risk of tumor formation. This breakthrough could revolutionize regenerative medicine and provide new hope for treating various diseases.
A systematic review found that non-specialist providers can deliver effective treatments for children with intellectual disabilities or lower-functioning autism spectrum disorders. The studies showed improvements in developmental, behavioral, and family outcomes with various psychosocial interventions.
A recent study by Concordia University doctoral graduate Devora Neumark found that engaging in house-beautification practices can help overcome the traumas associated with domicide. By repeating simple domestic actions, individuals can create a sense of order and rebuild their homes.
A study published in The BMJ analyzed data from 7,870 women and found that around 0.5% reported virgin births without using assisted reproductive technology. Virgins were more likely to have signed chastity pledges and had lower levels of communication about sex and birth control with their parents.
A study found that 18 medical communication companies received substantial funding from drug and device companies, offering continuing medical education programs and tracking physician behavior. The companies shared personal data with third parties without explicit consent, sparking concerns about transparency and data protection.
A Neanderthal DNA region associated with UV-light adaptation has been identified in up to 49% of Japanese and 66% of Southern Chinese populations. This region was positively selected and enriched in East Asians due to a population expansion event, suggesting higher levels of Neanderthal ancestry in the region.
A new study finds that Irish immigrants to England suffered from physical and sexual abuse as children, contributing to their poor health. Research suggests a model of understanding immigration patterns accounting for childhood trauma's impact on future health.
Recent studies published in Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology investigate the association between diverticulosis, constipation, vitamin D levels, and risk of acute diverticulitis. The research provides new perspectives on the condition, challenging common beliefs and offering potential therapeutic strategies.
Researchers have identified two biomarkers, low N-acetylaspartate/choline and rising choline/creatine, that are significantly correlated with developmental delays in premature infants. These chemical ratios at birth can predict the likelihood of motor development problems one year later with 70 percent certainty.
A comprehensive study of 650,000 Americans reveals significant disparities in access to preventive dental care among ethnic groups. Despite an increase in preventative dental care uptake over a decade, 23-43% of Americans received no care in 2008, depending on ethnicity.
Scientists at the University of Houston are studying E. coli evolution to understand how bacteria adapt to changing conditions. By analyzing genetic changes over 7,000 generations, they aim to predict which bacterial strains will become resistant to antibiotics, ultimately leading to better vaccines and treatments.
Researchers found that moderate drinking boosted the immune system of rhesus macaques, leading to enhanced responses to vaccines. In contrast, heavy drinkers showed diminished vaccine responses. The study suggests a potential link between moderate alcohol consumption and improved immune function.
A study analyzed how celebrities gain credibility as medical advisors and why the public follows their health advice. The researchers found that people's natural tendency to imitate others (herding) and celebrity endorsements can lead to a perception of trustworthiness, despite the lack of medical expertise.
The Pfeiffer Fire, located in Monterey Ranger District of Los Padres National Forest, has destroyed at least 15 homes and caused many residential evacuations. The fire, which started on December 16, has already consumed over 500 acres and remains zero percent contained.
Researchers discovered a new gene mutation linked to myopathy, which causes muscle weakness, movement problems, and learning difficulties. The discovery provides better understanding of the genetic causes of the condition and will enable clinicians to give individuals more precise diagnoses.
A new quantum lithography protocol developed by George Miroshnichenko improves the resolution of photolithography technology. The protocol addresses physical limitations caused by light diffraction, allowing for narrower stripes and higher-contrast edges on semiconductors.
A recent study published in BJU International found that radiation therapy used to treat uterine cancer may increase the risk of developing bladder cancer. Patients treated with pelvic radiation therapy had a twice-higher incidence and nearly three times higher death rate from bladder cancer compared to those without radiation.
Chronic wounds affect millions of Americans at a high cost. Researchers found that reducing reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels can break the cycle of unhealing wounds. Antioxidant treatments can also reverse chronicity by disintegrating bacterial biofilms, leading to healthier tissue and wound healing.
A special issue of the journal Climatic Change examines the proposed Oxford Principles for governing geoengineering research, including technical hurdles, ethics, and regulatory issues. The study highlights the need for interdisciplinary discussion on geoengineering, which has gained credibility in the scientific community.
A Taiwanese study found that high-quality diets among children are correlated with those of their elders, regardless of factors such as household income and parental education. The researchers suggest that grandparents may play a significant role in influencing food habits across generations.
The Hubble Space Telescope observed a 'light echo' phenomenon as RS Puppis variable star pulsed, measuring its distance to 6,500 light-years with high accuracy. The star's fluctuations and reflected light allowed astronomers to narrow down the distance using light echoes.
The Microbicide Trials Network, led by the University of Pittsburgh, has received a seven-year, $70 million grant to continue developing and testing HIV prevention products. The network aims to address unmet needs for new products targeting young women and men who have sex with men.
The UK's Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council has launched 13 unique collaborative networks to promote interaction between academia and industry, pooling skills to develop research projects with potential to overcome major challenges in industrial biotechnology and bioenergy. The networks will unlock innovative ways t...
A study found that bonobos have higher levels of thyroid hormone T3 until adulthood, unlike humans and chimpanzees. This might impact their social behavior and cognitive development, potentially leading to delayed maturation.
Researchers found no evidence of an association between iron levels and the risk of atherosclerosis, contradicting a long-held hypothesis. The study's findings carry important implications for patients with chronic kidney disease or anemia related to inflammatory disorders.
Researchers found that silencing synapses in the nucleus accumbens can prevent intensification of cocaine craving. They discovered a chemical receptor known as CP-AMPAR essential for maturation of silent synapses, which revert to silence when removed.
A study by researchers at the University of Auckland in New Zealand investigates whether it's better to be right or be happy. The results show that being right can cause happiness, while agreeing with what one disagrees with leads to unhappiness. The study also highlights the adverse effects of unbridled power on quality of life.
A new study suggests that H1N1 infection can trigger autoimmune destruction of brain cells producing wakefulness protein hypocretin, leading to narcolepsy. Researchers believe that molecular mimicry between the virus and human protein may play a key role in the disease's development.
A study published in Europe's leading reproductive medicine journal found that freezing semen before cancer treatment can significantly increase the chances of fatherhood. Among 334 male survivors who wanted to have children, those with frozen semen had a success rate of 62% compared to 21% without it.
Researchers at Umeå University detected measurable concentrations of illicit drugs in Swedish wastewater from 33 treatment plants. The study found 13 different narcotic substances, with oxazepam, codeine, and morphine being the most common prescription drug residues.
Scientists have discovered a previously unknown form of uranium that can become mobile under certain conditions, remobilizing from natural wetlands into surrounding water. Researchers found that a specific combination of organic matter, iron, and sulfide presence enables the mobility of uranium.
A new study found that agoutis in areas with limited food are more active at twilight and have a higher risk of being killed by ocelots. This increased predation risk affects seed dispersal by agoutis, who bury seeds as food reserves that may germinate into new trees.
Researchers developed an algorithm that subtly modifies facial features to make a face more memorable. The system uses machine learning to analyze subtle trends in facial features and applies these changes to produce a new image. In tests, the algorithm succeeded in making faces more or less memorable in around 75% of cases.
Research found smoking changes genes associated with health problems like cancer and diabetes. Epigenetic modifications are likely caused by tobacco combustion, not substances in the tobacco.
A new study published in Psychological Medicine found that childhood bullying significantly increases the likelihood of psychotic experiences in later life, affecting victims, perpetrators, and bully-victims. The research suggests early interventions against bullying in primary school could prevent long-term effects on mental health.
The new guidelines provide evidence-based recommendations for the diagnosis and treatment of hypertension, addressing healthcare disparities globally. The 25-author guidelines aim to improve clinical management and reduce the burden of cardiovascular events associated with high blood pressure.
Researchers have made a breakthrough in printing cells from the human retina using piezoelectric inkjet technology, opening up new possibilities for treating blindness. The study successfully printed two types of cells, ganglion cells and glial cells, which remained healthy and retained their ability to survive and grow in culture.
A new study has confirmed an association between a gadolinium-based MRI contrast agent and abnormal brain tissue signals. The research suggests that the toxic component of the contrast agent may remain in the body for extended periods.
A new study published in Childhood Obesity found that food and beverage ads on children's TV programs are nutritionally unhealthy for kids. The researchers assessed the nutritional content of over 84% of food and beverage products advertised during children's programming.
A new infrared spectroscopy technique called nano-FTIR has enabled researchers to map the secondary structure of proteins on the nanometer scale. The technique, which combines scanning near-field optical microscopy and FTIR spectroscopy, allows for nanoscale-resolved protein spectroscopy and identification of single protein complexes w...
Measuring changes in proteins in people with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) may better predict disease progression, according to scientists at Penn State College of Medicine. Biomarkers from plasma and cerebrospinal fluid identified as useful in predicting disease duration.
A new study published in Biological Psychiatry reveals that hippocampal volume loss in depression is caused by a reduction in glial cells, not neurons. The research uses female nonhuman primates to clarify the cellular basis of volumetric changes in the brain.
The NIH Bridging Interventional Development Gaps (BrIDGs) program aims to advance treatments for acute radiation syndrome, brain injury from cardiac arrest, and beta thalassemia. BrIDGs supports expert contractors to perform pre-clinical services, with seven compounds licensed during or after development through the program.
Researchers found that longer duration of diabetes and advancing age are associated with increased rates of diabetes complications, hypoglycemia, cardiovascular complications, and mortality. The study highlights the need for individualized care for older patients with type 2 diabetes.