African American women and girls living in urban areas face significant barriers to physical activity, including lack of access to gyms and limited time. Wanda Thompson's research suggests that personalized, community-based programs like church fitness initiatives can promote a healthier lifestyle and reduce health risks.
A US study found that women who gained too little weight during pregnancy are at increased risk of losing their baby in its first year of life. The study, published in the American Journal of Public Health, showed that nearly a quarter of women did not gain enough weight during pregnancy.
Researchers found that increasing dietary fiber intake by just 1 extra portion of wholegrains and more fruit and vegetables can significantly lower the risk of heart disease. A 7g daily increase in fiber consumption was associated with a lower risk of CVD and CHD events.
Researchers at the Stowers Institute for Medical Research have developed the first genetic model of syngnathia, a rare congenital disorder characterized by fused upper and lower jaws. The study sheds light on the molecular mechanisms underlying the defect, which affects regions such as the head, heart, or gut.
Cancer immunotherapy emerged as a major scientific breakthrough in 2013, with promising results from clinical trials. Researchers have also made significant advances in genome-editing techniques and vaccine design strategies.
A new Duke study found that nurse home visiting programs can reduce healthcare costs by $3 for every $1 spent, while also improving health and parenting outcomes. Participating families had lower rates of maternal anxiety and safer home environments than non-participating families.
Scientists discovered that Atlantic slipper shell larvae control their swimming speed by subtly shifting the position of their velar lobes, demonstrating complex neuromuscular control. The ability to make small movements with these lobes allows the larvae to swim at varying speeds, determining individual dispersal and survival.
Researchers found that K-Ras mutations allow cancer cells to survive and invade tissues without normal survival signals. The study suggests that these mutations promote invasion by subverting the mechanism of normal cell death.
Researchers have developed a DNA clamp that can detect genetic mutations in cancer with greater efficiency than current methods, paving the way for rapid screening and new nanotechnology tools. The technology uses triple helices to improve specificity and has potential applications in diagnostic tests and DNA-based nanostructures.
Researchers found that girls' brains undergo a selective process called preferential detachment, preserving long-distance connections that integrate information. This process may explain why brain function improves during maturation in females.
Advances in metabolic engineering and systems biology are optimizing fungi to produce specific bioproducts, improving cellular performance, and utilizing fungal diversity. The journal article provides a comprehensive overview of the integrated approaches used to customize fungal cell factories for industrial applications.
The Norwegian Taxonomy Initiative has identified nearly 60% of the newly discovered species as insects or small terrestrial invertebrates. DNA analysis has also revealed new insights into fungal and marine species, providing a better understanding of Norway's ecosystems.
A new study reveals the BCG vaccine is highly protective against pulmonary TB globally, including in tropical regions. The key to its effectiveness lies in early vaccination before prior infection, suggesting a crucial role for BCG in controlling TB's major burden and transmission.
Researchers at Scripps Research Institute have developed a new method to map the 3D structure of membrane proteins, including the human serotonin receptor. This approach enables faster and more accurate imaging, potentially condensing the timeline for structural studies from months to days.
Researchers analyzed transaction data from 30 McDonald's restaurants to find that reducing the size of French fries decreased the calorie count in children's meals by 104 calories. Children mostly stuck with their original entrée choice, but opted for lower-calorie beverages like milk instead of soda.
Researchers discovered the largest example of horizontal gene transfer in any organism, where <i> Amborella </i> acquired foreign genes from green algae and other plants. The study provides insight into the evolution of mitochondrial fusion and its role in horizontal gene transfer.
Atrial fibrillation management remains suboptimal in Europe, with low adoption of new oral anticoagulants (NOACs) and inconsistent treatment guideline adherence. The pilot registry found that oral anticoagulant use has increased, but NOAC use is still limited, particularly among females.
Researchers measured the electric dipole moment of electrons to probe the Standard Model's limitations. Their results suggest that supersymmetric particles may not exist as predicted, leaving gaps in our understanding of dark matter and the universe.
Researchers at Karolinska Institutet have identified a new gene, GRHL3, responsible for the most common form of cleft lip and palate syndrome, Van der Woude syndrome. The study found that mutations in GRHL3 may be associated with an increased risk of clefts in non-syndromic cases.
Researchers found that computer users make broader generalizations when it comes to movement learning. Computer-naive individuals converted their generalization patterns after just two weeks of intensive mouse use, suggesting that computer use fundamentally affects neural representation of movements.
Scientists have successfully differentiated human pluripotent stem cells into kidney tubular cells using a specific cocktail of chemicals. The resulting cells expressed key markers and could form functional tubules when transplanted into adult mouse kidneys.
A new study found that 80% of scientific data are lost within two decades, highlighting the need for public archives to preserve research findings. The authors recommend making data upload a condition for publication in scientific journals.
Researchers found that nearly 8% of metal-on-metal hip replacements have no readily available clinical effectiveness evidence. The study highlights the need for improved device regulation to prevent widespread use of untested implants.
The Amborella genome sequence reveals a 'genome doubling event' that occurred 200 million years ago, explaining the sudden proliferation of new flower species. The discovery provides insights into the genetic origins of important traits in food crops and has significant implications for crop improvement.
Researchers have predicted and confirmed the existence of unusual sodium chlorides that break traditional charge balance rules in chemistry. These compounds may have practical applications and could exist in planetary interiors under high pressure.
Researchers at Berkeley Lab have created a micro-sized robotic torsional muscle/motor made from vanadium dioxide, achieving unprecedented power density and speed. The device can catapult objects over 50 times its own weight with remarkable efficiency.
Researchers used X-ray laser to map the 3D structure of a key cellular gatekeeper, the human serotonin receptor. The breakthrough technique uses smaller crystals and produces high-resolution images, potentially condensing years-long studies into days.
A study in the Journal of Dairy Science found that polyphenol EGCG in milk can reduce colon cancer cell proliferation and inhibit tumor formation. Milk's casein protein micelles may enhance bioavailability and efficacy of these compounds.
Researchers found that high-temperature superconductivity in copper oxides forms as material cools from a state where electrons exhibit charge ordering, a phenomenon previously unknown. The study provides a crucial clue to understanding how to enhance superconductivity and potentially increase temperatures.
The new system enables real-time interaction with the patient's body and radiotherapy applicator, allowing for precise radiation of potentially cancerous tissues. This innovation aims to reduce treatment time and minimize healthy tissue damage.
A recent study found that most scientific data is inaccessible after just 20 years, with over 80% of publicly funded research data lost forever. Researchers are calling for journals to require authors to share their data on public archives before publication.
Patients with Parkinson's disease struggle to recognize emotions in facial expressions and speech prosody. After surgery for deep brain stimulation, they show difficulty recognizing disgust and sadness, but this impairment is only temporary.
A Michigan State University scholar proposes the telecoupling framework to understand how China's domestic decisions influence other countries and vice versa. The research shows that China's efforts to sustain forests can have substantial global impacts, including reappearing deforestation in countries that sell lumber and food to China.
A new study published in Cell journal strengthens the understanding that gut microbes can affect brain function and behavior, particularly in individuals with autism spectrum disorder. Feeding mice a beneficial type of bacteria has been shown to reduce autism-like behaviors.
A study by UC San Diego researchers has mapped the complex genetic interactions underlying cellular response to UV radiation, revealing links between chromatin structure remodeling and efficient repair. The findings provide new insights into DNA damage caused by UV radiation and its role in skin cancer.
A survey of over 2,500 Americans revealed that Angelina Jolie's public announcement about her preventive double mastectomy did not translate to increased knowledge of breast cancer risk and the BRCA gene mutation, highlighting a need for further education.
Researchers suggest that rehabilitation strategies combining meditation-like practices with drug and behavior therapies are more effective than drug-plus-talk therapy alone. The study proposes that meditation can aid in cognitive recovery and provide additional benefits for individuals overcoming addiction.
Researchers found that HrpA is essential for Lyme disease transmission and tick survival, enabling the bacterium to regulate its RNA and survive in mammalian hosts. The discovery provides significant insights into the complex life cycle of Borrelia burgdorferi and potential targets for future treatments.
The California Academy of Sciences discovered 91 new plant and animal species in 2013, including 38 ants, 12 fishes, and 14 plants. This finds highlights the importance of biodiversity hotspots like Madagascar and the need for continued exploration and conservation efforts.
A new MRI approach called quantitative susceptibility mapping (QSM) has been validated for measuring Multiple Sclerosis (MS) progression. QSM provides a quantitative way to measure myelin content and iron deposition in the brain, which are important factors in MS physiology. The study demonstrated that using the correct model can separ...
The Student DNA Barcoding Project is a flexible curriculum that uses student-generated research to teach about biodiversity, ecology and molecular biology. The project has been successfully used in New York City and Belize, with students exploring topics such as beetles, beehives, and conservation.
A Rutgers-Camden nursing scholar warns that academic bullying is becoming increasingly common in academia, impacting the ability to recruit and retain quality educators. The study highlights instances of slander, isolation, physical threats, and unrealistic workloads as prevalent forms of bullying in academic workplaces.
A research team has decoded the molecular structure of the serotonin receptor at room temperature for the first time, revealing its dynamics and giving a more realistic picture of its physiological function. This breakthrough could lead to better-designed drugs and new ways to investigate large biomolecules.
Researchers have developed an oral vaccine against Helicobacter pylori using Lactobacillus acidophilus as a delivery vehicle. The vaccine elicits specific antibodies and provides significant protection against gastric infection.
A study published in Molecular Neurobiology found that sodium butyrate reduces survival of cultured medulloblastoma cells and enhances expression of markers for a mature neuronal phenotype. This suggests the compound may promote cell death and favor maturation towards less malignant-prone phenotypes.
Researchers discovered 45 trepanation procedures on human remains in Peru's Andahuaylas caves dating back to AD 1000-1250. The ancient practice was used to treat various ailments and conditions, with varying techniques employed by practitioners.
Researchers found that young natural killer cells play a key role in preventing infectious mononucleosis caused by Epstein-Barr Virus. A potential vaccination is being explored to protect against EBV infection and reduce the risk of developing Hodgkin lymphoma.
Tropical Cyclone Bruce maintained hurricane-force winds and a visible eye in the Southern Indian Ocean. The storm's convection strengthened around the eyewall, fueled by high clouds and thunderstorms.
Researchers at Ruhr-Universität Bochum investigated anti-epilepsy drugs' effects on glial cells. They found that valproic acid and gabapentin promote cell survival, while phenytoin and carbamazepine have pro-inflammatory properties.
A daily step increase of just 2000 steps can cut the risk of cardiovascular disease by 8% in those with a high risk of type 2 diabetes. The study, which analyzed data from 40 countries, also found that increasing physical activity levels through walking can substantially reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke.
Scientists use reactive glial cells to regenerate healthy neurons in a breakthrough technology for treating brain injuries and Alzheimer's disease. In mouse models and human cell cultures, the method successfully converts glial cells into functional neurons.
Scientists have found a molecular mechanism behind aging that can be reversed using a compound that restores communication between mitochondria and the nucleus. This breakthrough may lead to new treatments for age-related diseases such as cancer, type 2 diabetes, and inflammatory disorders.
Researchers found that plain salt can transform into unexpected stable compounds with unusual chemical properties under high pressure. This discovery could help answer questions about early planet cores and create new materials with practical uses.
The EORTC-GIMEMA AML-12 Trial found that high-dose cytarabine improved outcomes for adult patients with acute myeloid leukemia, especially those younger than 46 years. High-dose treatment resulted in higher remission and survival rates compared to standard-dose treatment.
A study published in Environmental Science & Technology found that bottlenose dolphins in Barataria Bay, Louisiana, have lung damage and adrenal hormone abnormalities. The researchers believe that the Deepwater Horizon oil spill may be responsible for these health effects.
A study by Aalto University found that global food availability has increased in recent decades, especially in regions like the Middle East and Latin America. However, food self-sufficiency remains low, with many countries relying heavily on imports to meet their food needs, putting pressure on natural resources.
Research by Thanh-Lan Gluckman reveals that plumage patterning is labile in both males and females, with changes driven by environmental factors and signalling functions. The study challenges traditional views on sexual dimorphism, suggesting multiple types of dimorphism and adaptations to social and environmental conditions.
A new study by Johns Hopkins Medicine finds that most people with dementia living at home have multiple unmet health and welfare needs. Routine assessments and interventions in safety, medical care, and supportive services can help keep patients at home longer.
Sheep producers may benefit from genetic selection as an alternative strategy to control helminth infections, which can reduce economic losses and minimize the use of chemicals. This approach aims to breed sheep with natural resistance traits, improving overall health and reducing production costs.
Researchers combined two catalytic reactions to produce highly reactive boron-containing compounds from inexpensive chemicals, expanding the applications of alpha-olefins and enabling efficient production of important therapeutics like phenethylamines and pregabalin.
A new study by Aarhus University reveals the optimal locations for carbon-stocking projects in Africa, prioritizing regions with high carbon potential, biodiversity conservation, and feasibility. The research identifies areas such as the Upper Guinean rainforests of West Africa and the Lower Guinean rainforests along the coast of Niger...
A new study by UT Arlington's landscape architecture team found that Klyde Warren Park contributes to increased property values, physical activity among park users, and reduced carbon dioxide emissions. The research also showed similar benefits for the University of Texas at Dallas Campus Landscape Plan and Buffalo Bayou Promenade.
Campylobacter infection affects millions more than Salmonella, with antibiotic resistance a growing concern. Researchers seek to understand biofilm formation and regulate CsrA's role in making the sugar coating that enables bacterial survival.
Air quality in Greece has deteriorated by 30% since the financial crisis, with fine particles lodged deep into lung tissue posing health risks. Burning cheaper fuel sources like wood and trash for heating has contributed to this issue.
Male sperm and seminal fluid trigger pathways that cause female worms to dehydrate, prematurely age and die. The death of the female after she gives birth fits into a general framework of sperm competition observed in nature.
Research at Arizona State University has found that the mirror neuron system can be modified by language use, affecting visual perception. The study demonstrates how the MNS is used in both action and simulation processes, shedding light on its role in comprehension and language learning.
A new review published in the journal Neuropsychology Review finds that computerized neurocognitive testing for concussions lacks consistent evidence on reliability and validity. The study suggests caution when using these tests due to their marketing prevalence over scientific proof, emphasizing the need for a multi-dimensional approa...
Researchers analyzed 29 strains of the parasite and found that some South American or atypical North American strains provoke strong inflammation in infected cells, leading to tissue damage. The study suggests that host immune responses may be causing most of the damage rather than the parasite itself.
The Bloomberg Administration's public health policies were developed using a data-driven approach, which included rigorous appraisal of published studies and collection of local health survey data. The resulting policies have improved the health and life expectancy of New Yorkers, providing a blueprint for other cities to follow.
Researchers at Ohio State University confirm that ibrutinib targets Bruton's tyrosine kinase (BTK), a critical molecule in chronic lymphocytic leukemia cell growth and proliferation. Inhibiting BTK delayed CLL development and improved overall survival in mouse models.
Elevated tyrosine levels in obese individuals are linked to a higher risk of developing diabetes. Researchers propose that tyrosine may directly affect insulin signaling, leading to increased blood sugar levels.
Researchers at Case Western Reserve University are working on a new device that can predict when patients with sickle cell disease will suffer an acute crisis and monitor the effectiveness of treatments. The device measures the physical properties of red blood cells, which become sticky and block blood flow during a crisis.
A study by University of Iowa researchers identifies CHOP as a protein that promotes liver cancer in mice, linked to cellular stress from obesity, alcoholism, and viral hepatitis. Elevated CHOP levels are found in human liver tumors, suggesting potential targets for therapies.
Researchers at Gladstone Institutes have identified the precise chain of molecular events driving CD4 T cell death in HIV-infected individuals, leading to AIDS. They also discovered an existing anti-inflammatory drug that blocks this process, paving the way for a Phase 2 clinical trial.
Researchers at Harvard Medical School have discovered a reversible cause of aging in mammals. Administering a naturally produced compound restored communication between cells' nucleus and mitochondria, comparable to younger animals. This finding has significant implications for understanding the aging process and potential reversal.
Recent climate change affects physiological traits in caterpillars, enabling them to feed rapidly at a broader range of temperatures. Modern caterpillars can gain up to 20% body weight in an hour when temperatures are ideal, outperforming their ancestors.
Researchers found that patients with congenital arrhythmia produce twice the amount of insulin after consuming sugar, leading to drastically low blood sugar levels. The discovery could have significant implications for treatment of diabetes and management of hypoglycaemia.
Research at Albert Einstein College of Medicine found that lactation consultants improved breastfeeding rates among women who resisted it. The studies showed that support from a lactation consultant significantly increased the chances of exclusive breastfeeding for three months, crucial for mother and child health benefits.
Scientists have reproduced antiferromagnetic coupling between layers in nanoscopic materials, allowing for easy adjustment of properties without shape or composition manipulation. This discovery paves the way for miniaturization of magnetic storage and applications.
Researchers identified a SNP in Cyfip2 associated with cocaine response, highlighting the need for genetic quality control in mouse populations. The study used C57BL/6J and 6N mice substrains developed over nearly a century.
An international team of researchers has successfully sequenced the sugar beet genome, revealing a vast array of genes and genetic variations. The study sheds light on the plant's sweet properties and how its genome has been shaped by artificial selection.
A new study by Michigan State University researchers found that the black-white infant mortality gap remained stable for two decades after accounting for observable factors, leaving 74% of the gap unexplained. The gap declined by 2.6 deaths per 100,000 live births between 1983 and 2004.
Researchers at The City College of New York have successfully transformed vegetable oils into a semisolid form using low-calorie sugars as structuring agents. Mannitol dioctanoate and sorbitol dioctanoate gelators demonstrated excellent gelation tendencies for various oils, producing stable gels that can be used in food processing.
A new study reveals that nearly half of Americans with diabetes are unaware of the link between the disease and visual impairment, while only six in ten have had their eyes fully examined. The research highlights the need for improved patient education and access to eye care specialists to prevent vision loss.
A new method for detecting genetic defects in egg cells could significantly increase the success rate of IVF by identifying chromosomal abnormalities and DNA sequence variations associated with genetic disorders. The approach uses whole-genome sequencing of individual egg cells, offering a safe, accurate, and low-cost solution.
A study by Dr. Nathan Watemberg found that gum-chewing teenagers experience headaches due to temporomandibular joint dysfunction, which can be treated by quitting gum chewing. The study involved 30 patients between six and 19 years old who had chronic migraine or tension headaches
Patients with chronic medications show improved adherence when they meet monthly with pharmacists to coordinate treatment schedules and dispense prescriptions on a single day. This appointment-based model can have a major impact on patient health, as it simplifies medication regimens and addresses individualized needs.
Researchers developed a new antibody that reverses muscle wasting in cancer, COPD, and other diseases by blocking a receptor that puts brakes on muscle development. The compound, BYM338, boosted muscle mass 25-50% and increased strength in animal models, with clinical trials underway.
A new study suggests that over 80% of consumers may struggle to estimate their healthcare needs, leading to costly plan choices. Researchers offer prescriptions to improve outcomes, including estimating costs first, educating through 'just-in-time' tutorials, and implementing cost calculators.
Scientists at DESY's X-ray source PETRA III and Carnegie Institution created new compounds like Na3Cl and NaCl3 under high pressure, violating classical chemistry rules. These discoveries pave the way for a more universal understanding of chemistry and potential novel applications.
Most women on dialysis experience sexual inactivity, but true sexual dysfunction is less common; many are satisfied with their sex life, and few wish to learn about treatment options. The study highlights the need for individualized discussions between physicians and patients to identify those who truly suffer from sexual dysfunction.
Researchers found that African-American women lost about seven pounds fewer than Caucasian women despite following similar calorie restriction and activity prescriptions. They had lower resting metabolic rates and expended less energy daily.
Significant declines in European corn borer populations suggest that expensive, insecticidal toxin-resistant corn hybrids are not needed. Non-Bt hybrid seeds can be a more cost-effective option for growers to reduce potential losses.
A texting service, txt4health, motivated people to change behavior and reduce their risk of type 2 diabetes, but less than half of enrollees stuck with the service. The program led to significant improvements in diet and physical activity habits among participants.
A study by University of Texas at Austin researchers found that shifting from coal to natural gas for electricity generation saves significantly more water than the additional consumption required for hydraulic fracturing. Water savings can be up to 25-50 times greater, making Texas less vulnerable to drought.
A new Northwestern Medicine study reveals that leading National Cancer Institute-designated comprehensive cancer centers do not consistently identify and inform patients about their fertility risks or refer them to specialists. Fertility navigators are crucial in bridging the gap between oncology and fertility, but only a third of thes...
A team of scientists at Yale and Harvard has set a new benchmark for the electron's roundness, contradicting some Supersymmetry theories. The research used a unique method to detect particles, showing that the electron is more spherical than predicted by these extensions.
A study published in Oncogene found that androgens hijack the AMPK signaling cascade to increase prostate cancer cell growth. This metabolic switch has significant implications for understanding early and late-stage prostate cancer progression.
Researchers develop a reaction-diffusion model to account for seasonal patterns in Lyme disease transmission, taking into consideration factors such as temperature, rainfall, and resource availability. The model aims to drive the basic reproduction number R0 below 1 to eradicate the disease.
Researchers investigate the geological features of Faial Island, Portugal, examining relationships between tectonics and magmatism. Additionally, studies on apatite fossil preservation in Cambrian rocks shed light on the source of phosphorus for exceptional fossilization. Marine terraces along California's Santa Barbara coast also prov...
Researchers identified a gene called Cyfip2 involved in the response to cocaine by comparing closely related mouse strains. The study suggests a potential link between this gene and human cocaine addiction, although further research is needed.
Researchers at Boston College and Boston University found that people widely believe suicide is immoral due to concerns over soul purity. Their study showed that participants were more likely to morally condemn suicide if they believed it tainted the victims' souls, regardless of their political or religious views.
Researchers identified a molecular link between liver cancer, cellular stress and health problems that increase the risk of developing this cancer. The protein CHOP promotes liver cancer in mice and may do so in humans too.
A recent study found that three out of five hospital meals exceed salt levels of a Big Mac, leading to concerns about malnutrition. The government's voluntary initiatives have failed to improve food standards, wasting over £54 million since 1992.
A new drug called amlexanox has shown promise in reversing obesity, Type 2 diabetes, and fatty liver disease in mice. The treatment works by restoring sensitivity to catecholamines, which enables fat cells to burn energy and return to normal size.
UBC researchers have discovered a universal electronic state that controls the behavior of high-temperature superconducting copper-oxide ceramics. The work reveals the existence of 'charge-density-waves', which carry the seeds of superconductivity emerging in these materials.
A new study published in the American Heart Association journal Stroke found a link between anxiety and an increased risk of stroke over a 22-year period. People with high anxiety levels had a 33% higher stroke risk than those with low levels, possibly due to smoking, physical inactivity, and stress hormone levels.
Research by Rutgers University professor Carol Kaufman-Scarborough highlights the challenges faced by disabled consumers during holiday shopping. The study reveals that store design choices, such as narrow aisles and high display heights, can make it difficult for shoppers with mobility problems to navigate stores.
Researchers at Stanford and Google have successfully simulated the transformation of a key drug receptor site using Google Exacycle's cloud computing platform. The simulation revealed thousands of possible configurations, providing scientists with a better jumping-off point for computational drug design.
Tropical Cyclone Amara is experiencing heavy rainfall, with scattered bands of moderate to heavy rain falling at rates over 76.9 mm/3 inches per hour. The storm is also producing hurricane-force winds and rough seas.
TB-causing bacteria mask their molecular patterns using cell surface lipids, evading immune detection. The presence of lipid molecule PGL promotes the recruitment of permissive macrophages that allow TB to establish an infection in deeper lung tissue.
ASU researchers have successfully imaged G-protein-coupled receptors at room temperature using serial femtosecond crystallography. The new method allows for the study of human proteins without freezing, reducing radiation damage and enabling the observation of molecular dynamics.
UC Irvine researchers found that a high-fat diet disrupts circadian rhythms, which can lead to metabolic disorders. A balanced diet normalized the rhythms, suggesting the circadian clock's adaptability.