Scientists at McGill University and the Federal University of Sao Paulo have identified osteopontin as a key player in X-linked hypophosphatemia (XLH), a rare bone disease characterized by soft bones and tooth abnormalities. This discovery may lead to the development of an enzyme-replacement therapy to treat XLH patients.
Bioethicists argue that traditional informed consent models do not translate well to online health research, requiring a more collaborative approach to build trust with individuals whose information is collected. Transparent disclosure of research uses is also crucial.
Researchers at Ruhr-University Bochum develop novel composite materials to enhance the degradation rate of photocatalysts. The goal is to implement these photocatalysts into a liquid paint for easy coating on photoreactors, enabling efficient and cost-effective water decontamination in remote areas.
A new Pitt study found that generic drug coverage is cost-effective compared to no coverage for schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. Generic coverage improved health outcomes and reduced medical costs, with savings of $570-$1,312 per year.
A new model predicts when consumers use media and even when they use two or more at a time, leading to improved ad buying accuracy. The study finds that people spend about 35% of their time consuming media, with TV being the most popular outlet.
A new drug combination has shown promise in preventing head and neck cancer in high-risk patients. The combination of erlotinib and celecoxib was found to be more effective in inhibiting the growth of human SCCHN cell lines compared to either drug alone.
Researchers are using engineering control theory to create complex brain models that can simulate neurological diseases. By simplifying these models and fusing them with real system measurements, they aim to develop more accurate treatments for conditions such as epilepsy and Parkinson's disease.
The researchers developed a new type of nanoscale structure that combines one-dimensional and two-dimensional structures, creating a material with large surface area and efficient charge transfer. This 3D structure holds promise for developing next-generation sensors, photodetectors, solar cells, and energy storage technologies.
Researchers at Arizona State University's Biodesign Institute are using the ISS to study the effects of microgravity on disease-causing organisms. Their findings indicate that spaceflight can increase the virulence of pathogens like Salmonella, while also altering gene expression and pathogenesis-related responses in other microorganisms.
Researchers will explore yielding more high-quality organic rice using environmentally friendly methods. The studies aim to improve soil quality, reduce disease loss and increase yield and milling quality for the crop.
Northwestern University researchers found that consistent encoding of sound undergirds the reading process, with unstable representation of sound associated with poorer readers. The study suggests that auditory training can improve response consistency and potentially alleviate dyslexia.
Researchers combined police reports, drug offenses, and alcohol availability data to identify 'hot spots' of violence. The analysis showed that types and densities of alcohol outlets were directly related to violent crimes, despite typical demographic factors.
A novel global trading system based on cost-effectiveness of health interventions is proposed to help fund global health. The system, which exchanges DALY credits, aims to incentivize high-income countries to scale up their health commitments and meet the Millennium Development Goals.
The team's detailed study reveals that clusters do not form a clearly defined intermediate step in the growth process, but instead are part of a gradual growth process. This new understanding completes the theory by describing alternative pathways for crystal formation.
Researchers from Lund University have identified a single gene mutation that produces an entirely new scent in moths. This breakthrough could lead to more efficient and environmentally friendly pest control methods.
Tropical Storm Haruna formed on Feb. 19 after four days of organization, with maximum sustained winds near 35 knots. NASA satellites provided visible and infrared imagery that helped forecasters track the system's development.
Researchers found that identical genetic changes occurred between independently evolving E. coli populations, driven by negative frequency dependence and natural selection. This discovery challenges traditional views of evolution and species diversity.
A study in Spine found little to no evidence of worsening degeneration over time in patients with degenerative cervical spine disease. For many patients, observation may be a better choice than surgery, as the condition appears to be relatively stable at medium-term follow-up.
The PEV Scorecard helps communities evaluate their readiness for plug-in electric vehicle deployment, providing feedback and guidance for improvement. The tool offers a comprehensive assessment of charging infrastructure, planning, regulations, and support services.
Researchers describe the use of 5-aminolevulinic acid (5-ALA) fluorescence to guide resection of recurrent glioblastoma multiforme, revealing a pathway of tumor spread through brain regions inaccessible to MRI. This technique increases the success of achieving maximum resection.
A University of Colorado Cancer Center review found that resistant starch kills pre-cancerous cells and reduces inflammation, promoting the growth of good bugs in the bowel. Consuming resistant starch, found in legumes, green bananas, and starchy products, may also have implications for breast cancer prevention.
A new processor chip developed at MIT can convert amateur smartphone photos into professional-looking images in a fraction of a second. The chip uses a bilateral grid method to organize and store data, allowing it to avoid blurring across edges while enhancing lighting in dark scenes.
Researchers at UCLA have developed a new technique to fabricate micro-scale graphene-based supercapacitors, which can charge and discharge faster than standard batteries. The method uses a DVD burner to create the devices, making them more affordable and scalable.
Researchers aim to mimic reptiles' ability to increase locomotion efficiency and frogs' high propulsion. They investigate drinking strategies of carnivorous animals like cats and dogs to develop bio-inspired systems.
A UCLA study found a link between untreated depression and decreased effectiveness of the shingles vaccine in older adults. Patients with depression showed a weaker immune response to the varicella-zoster virus, making them less responsive to the vaccine.
Biologists at the University of Washington have found that mutant bacteria can escape extinction when environmental conditions worsen gradually or moderately. The study shows that 'relay team' of mutations emerging under these conditions provides protection against extreme stress, increasing chances of survival.
Research finds fibromyalgia is a spectrum disorder with nearly 40% of patients meeting criteria for physical symptom disorder. The prevalence is 2.1%, higher in women than men.
Researchers recommend doubling US energy productivity by 2030 through investments in efficiency concepts, modernizing infrastructure, and educating consumers. This can create a million new jobs, save households $1,000/year, and reduce carbon-dioxide emissions by one-third.
A growing health threat across low-income and middle-income countries, childhood cancer claims over 100,000 lives of children under 15 annually. Poor treatment access, lack of awareness, and limited healthcare infrastructure hinder effective care, emphasizing the need for investment in healthcare systems and capacity.
MIT researchers have developed a new method to study droplet adhesion using a modified scanning electron microscope. They found that the angle of a droplet's leading and trailing edges relative to a surface plays a crucial role in determining whether it sticks, and that surface texture on rough surfaces can either improve or worsen adh...
Tropical Depression 02W formed in the northwestern Pacific Ocean and is currently soaking provinces in Mindanao and Palawan. The storm's low-level circulation center appears disorganized, but forecasters predict it will become more organized once it moves into the South China Sea.
A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials found that hydroxyethyl starch was associated with a significant increased risk of death, acute kidney injury, and renal replacement therapy. The study excluded studies conducted by an investigator whose research was retracted due to scientific misconduct.
Researchers found that participants are conscious of substituting harder questions with easier ones, but still uncertain about their answers. This suggests they are not 'happy fools' who blindly answer incorrectly.
Researchers found drastic changes to marine communities due to higher temperatures and lower oxygen levels, leading to potential extinction of marine life. The study mirrors current climate predictions over the next century, highlighting the need for urgent action.
A recent study published in the journal Organization argues that the private security industry lacks transparency and accountability, leading to hidden costs of war. The industry's global worth is estimated to be billions of pounds, yet its activities are often shrouded in secrecy, hindering public debate.
A large study found that exposure to fine particulate matter (PM2.5) from air pollution is associated with increased deaths among patients who have had a heart attack. The study, published in the European Heart Journal, suggests that higher levels of PM2.5 are linked to greater mortality rates.
Scientists have developed wavelength-modulated Raman spectroscopy to overcome challenges in using the method in a clinical setting. The technique enables clean extraction of Raman signals even with high auto-fluorescence backgrounds and ambient light.
Researchers at Stanford University have developed a technique to observe hundreds of neurons firing in the brain of a live mouse in real-time. The tool uses fluorescent protein and calcium ions to decipher patterns in brain activity, offering insights into long-term information storage and spatial memory.
A study found that genetic variation within a single tree allows it to produce branches with leaves resistant to herbivory, while others are more susceptible. The variations in genes related to terpene production influence the leaves' edibility.
A new study published in the Proceedings of the Royal Society of London found that plant communities in the Arctic are more resilient to climate change when populations of caribou and musk ox remain intact. The research suggests that these large herbivores maintain plant species diversity, while warming reduces it.
A new study by the American Heart Association found that women's awareness of heart disease as the leading cause of death has nearly doubled in the last 15 years. However, disparities persist among minority groups and younger women, who are less likely to discuss their heart health with doctors or take preventive action.
Researchers found that white matter hyperintensities (WMHs) are equally associated with an Alzheimer's diagnosis as amyloid plaque. WMHs were also predictive of which subjects with mild cognitive impairment would go on to develop Alzheimer's. The study suggests potential ways to prevent Alzheimer's in those with amyloid deposits.
A new study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that thigh fat is a significant predictor of mobility loss in otherwise healthy older adults. The research suggests that preventing age-related declines in walking speed requires addressing not only muscle mass but also body composition changes.
University of Delaware professor John Jungck emphasizes the intersection of art and science, using natural patterns and visualization tools to reveal hidden information in fields like plant biology and biomedical imaging. His research and teaching emphasize interdisciplinary collaboration and imagination.
A new study found that CT angiography is an effective tool for determining the risk of heart attacks and other adverse cardiac events in patients with suspected coronary artery disease but no treatable risk factors. The test identified a high prevalence of coronary artery disease, even in patients without modifiable risk factors.
Researchers found higher stillbirth rates among Inuit and First Nations women in Quebec, particularly at term, with rates 2 times those of non-Aboriginal populations. The study suggests that reducing smoking and managing weight may help prevent stillbirths.
A study published in PLOS Medicine found that age-related macular degeneration is prevalent in Kenya, causing visual impairment and blindness. The condition was detected in 12.4% of the population aged over 50, with advanced stages found in 1.2%.
A study by Children's Hospital of Philadelphia researchers found that children with congenital heart disease exhibit impaired growth, measured in weight, length, and head circumference. The study suggests that abnormalities in overall growth regulation play a role in poor growth, potentially related to factors beyond nutrition.
Researchers studied stress in equestrian events and found horses remain unaffected by audience presence, unlike their riders. Riders exhibited increased stress levels when performing for spectators, indicating a significant difference in emotional response between horse and rider.
Spanish researchers analyzed 20 babies' crying patterns to identify emotions behind tears, finding differences in eye activity and dynamics. Pain is the most easily recognized emotion, causing intense affective reactions.
Researchers at BUSM propose a new epigenetic hypothesis linked to tumor production and suggest epigenetic drug treatments could be beneficial in treating cancers. They explore the role of DNA methylation and demethylation enzymes in regulating gene expression, suggesting potential therapeutic targets.
Researchers found that adding simple movements to mental rehearsal improved performance by 45% for high jumpers, compared to 35% with internal visual imagery. Dynamic imagery also shortened the number of jumps required.
The Alfred P. Sloan Foundation has honored 126 outstanding U.S. and Canadian researchers as recipients of the prestigious Sloan Research Fellowships for 2013. These early-career scientists are making significant contributions to various fields, including computer science, mathematics, molecular biology, chemistry, oceanography, economi...
A study published in mBio reveals that the novel coronavirus HCoV-EMC is highly infectious and can evade the human immune system, but it is also susceptible to treatment with interferons, which could be a potential mode of treatment for large-scale outbreaks
A new species of scorpion, Vaejovis brysoni, was found in the Santa Catalina Mountains near metropolitan Tucson, Arizona. The discovery is significant as it represents the first documented case of two vorhiesi group species inhabiting the same mountain range.
Researchers found that hourly temperature data provides a more accurate estimate of malaria parasite development rate than mean monthly temperatures. This approach has implications for understanding and predicting malaria transmission risk in different climates and regions.
A new study on the Newt transcriptome has identified 826 proteins specific to urodeles and several newly discovered proteins that may play roles in regeneration. The data outline genes present only in regenerating tissues, which could be crucial for regenerative medicine research.
Researchers at UC San Diego found that glutamate binding to NMDA receptors causes conformational changes leading to weakened synapses and impaired brain function. Beta amyloid peptide also weakens synapses by causing similar conformational changes.
A NYU project aims to examine social media's influence on political participation and attitudes by analyzing real-time data from Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram. The study seeks to understand the causal processes that shape collective action and inform a growing debate about social media's role in politics.
Babak Moaveni, a Tufts civil engineer, has received a National Science Foundation early career award to develop new and improved structural health monitoring methods. This will enhance the nation's roads, bridges, and other vital structures, allowing for more informed funding decisions.