Astronomers discovered a mysterious planet circling the nearby star Fomalhaut with an unusual elliptical orbit. The team hypothesizes that another undetected planet may have gravitationally ejected Fomalhaut B, sending it on a collision course with a vast dust ring.
Researchers have developed a new technology that uses laser and electric fields to create mini-centrifuge-like whirlpools to isolate microorganisms based on size. This technology has the potential to revolutionize lab-on-a-chip applications, including medical diagnostics and pharmaceutical manufacturing.
A new study found that metabolic stress can increase the onset of atrial arrhythmias, such as atrial fibrillation, by activating KATP channels in the atria. Blocking these channels with anti-diabetic drugs reversed the effects of metabolic stress and prevented atrial arrhythmia induction.
Research highlights the unique anatomical differences in the female knee that contribute to higher injury rates. Preseason and ongoing neuromuscular training programs can significantly decrease ACL injury risk among girls and women.
A large study of 263,925 adults found that drinking more than four cans of soda per day increased the risk of depression by 30%, compared to those who drank no soda. Conversely, drinking four cups of coffee per day was associated with a 10% lower risk of depression.
Researchers developed an oral drug that improved limb movement and preserved myelin-surfacing cells in mice after a spinal cord injury. The compound efficiently crossed the blood-brain barrier and showed no toxic effects, with the highest dose demonstrating significant improvements in motor function.
A study published in JAMA Network reveals a high clinical treatment failure rate of nearly 7% for patients treated with cefixime for gonorrhea infections in Toronto. The researchers found that strains with reduced susceptibilities to cefixime were associated with higher rates of clinical failures.
Researchers at Iowa State University are working on a project to help biologists cope with the challenges of big data in plant biology. The team has developed a microsystem instrument that can precisely control the environment for thousands of plants, allowing scientists to analyze the impact of different factors on plant growth.
A study by Indiana University researchers found flame retardants at global locations, with high concentrations detected in tree bark samples, particularly in urban areas and near manufacturing facilities. The technique of using tree bark as a sampling medium proves effective in detecting these pollutants.
A new method of generating stem cells could significantly enhance drug screening and treatment for diseases such as Huntington's and Parkinson's. Researchers developed water-based gels that support the growth of human embryonic stem cells, reducing damage and increasing efficiency.
Researchers have created a synthetic stool called RePOOPulate to cure C. difficile infections, offering a safer alternative to existing treatments. The artificial poop was tested on two patients with chronic infections and showed promising results in eliminating the infection.
A team of astronomers used the Spitzer and Hubble space telescopes to create the most detailed weather map yet for a brown dwarf. They found that the object has a stormy atmosphere with planet-sized clouds, similar to those on Earth. The research provides new insights into the atmospheres of brown dwarfs and exoplanets beyond our solar...
Researchers at Simon Fraser University discovered that male wasp females are marked by pheromone transfers from the tip of their antennae when approaching potential mates. This marking system allows males to quickly identify high-quality females and establishes a mating advantage, while deterring rival males from approaching.
Researchers developed a bio-inspired coating that enhances LED light extraction by up to 55 percent. The innovative design mimics the natural structure of firefly lanterns, which reduces internal reflections and allows more light to escape, ultimately making LEDs brighter while using less energy.
Dr. James Watson suggests that antioxidants in late-stage cancer cells can promote cancer progression, and that reducing antioxidant levels may be key to developing new anti-metastatic drugs. He calls for a faster timetable for researching this proposition.
Researchers at Brown University found that DNA molecules are more likely to be captured at or near an end than in the middle when pulled through a solid-state nanopore. The discovery is attributed to the application of polymer network theories, including Jell-O theory, which predicts more configurations with ends facing the pore.
A new study reveals that genetic factors significantly contribute to obesity, with DNA influencing body-fat responses to high-fat, high-sugar diets. The research found that genetics account for up to 80% of the variation in body-fat percentage among mice, suggesting a strong link between DNA and fat gain.
Andrei Lebed's research suggests that the equation may not hold true for gravitational mass, which could have significant implications for our understanding of gravity and its relationship to inertial mass. He proposes an experiment to test his conclusions, which could potentially revolutionize our understanding of the universe.
A recent study by the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill found that mothers who were obese and had fussy babies spent more time watching TV with their infants. This finding highlights the growing concern of obesity and inactivity among US children, and suggests a potential solution for mothers to combat these effects
The project aims to develop microbes that can convert methane in natural gas into liquid diesel fuel. If successful, this could reduce greenhouse gas emissions and lower dependence on foreign oil. The research, funded by ARPA-E, involves genetic modification of microorganisms to produce lipids from methane.
A study of 146 patients with symptomatic knee osteoarthritis found that vitamin D supplementation did not significantly reduce knee pain or cartilage volume loss over a two-year period. The researchers also noted that serum levels of 25-hydroxyvitamin D increased in both the treatment and placebo groups.
A study published in Obesity found that New York State WIC's new food package and healthy lifestyle promotion led to a 6% decline in obesity among 1-year-olds and a 3% decline among 2-4 year-olds. The program increased consumption of low-fat milk, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, while reducing screen time.
A new study by NREL found that CSP with thermal energy storage can lower peak net loads, displacing natural gas-fired generators and reducing the need for coal, adding significant value to utility companies. The report suggests that CSP with six-hour storage capacity can increase operational value by up to $35.80 per megawatt hour.
Despite a significant increase in overweight and obese Americans, primary care physicians have decreased weight counseling services, especially for patients with high blood pressure and diabetes. In 2007-2008, only 6.2% of visits included weight counseling, a decline from 1995.
A new study in humans published by Cell Press reveals that sodium levels actually fluctuate rhythmically over the course of weeks, independent of salt intake. The study, which examined cosmonauts participating in space-flight simulation studies, challenges widely accepted assumptions about sodium balance.
A new study confirms that 150 million-year-old Jurassic ecosystems were characterized by lush plant life and animal richness, similar to modern ecosystems. By analyzing fossil soils from various regions, researchers found high levels of CO2 from vegetation, indicating a wetter environment with abundant plant growth.
Researchers found that parasitic worms secrete a sugar-based molecule that reduces inflammation and alleviates symptoms of obesity-related diseases. The treatment may also work for psoriasis, organ transplants, and multiple sclerosis.
Astronomers have identified a new structure in the Milky Way, a long tendril of dust and gas dubbed a 'bone'. This feature is part of a web connecting spiral arms and is similar to fibulae found in human skeletons.
Researchers are using a new approach to simulate supernovas and their remnants, shedding light on the physics of these events. The team hopes its models will help reveal details about the characteristics of supernova remnants, including those created during the explosion and those formed in interaction with surrounding medium.
A compact source of X-rays and other forms of radiation has been invented by a University of Missouri engineering team, enabling the creation of inexpensive and portable X-ray scanners for medical diagnosis and terrorism prevention. The device could improve healthcare services in remote regions and reduce costs.
A new Department of Energy research facility will test new technologies for offshore wind and ocean power development. The Reference Facility for Offshore Renewable Energy will help verify the accuracy of data from new measurement technologies, providing confidence for potential investors.
A study published in The Journal of Neuroscience found that lifelong bilinguals perform a cognitive flexibility task faster and with less energy than monolingual peers. This suggests that lifelong bilingualism may exert its strongest benefits on the functioning of frontal brain regions in aging.
The Biophysical Society announced the recipients of its international travel grants, fostering interaction between American biophysicists and scientists in financially challenged countries. The award winners presented their research at the 57th Annual Meeting in Philadelphia.
The National Academy of Inventors inaugural conference showcased innovations in job creation through entrepreneurship and global patent harmonization. The conference featured presentations on efforts to harmonize patent offices worldwide, emphasizing the need for standardized methods of measuring patent quality.
A study by Michigan Medicine found that two-thirds of mothers with sick babies in Ghana are at risk of postpartum depression. This condition can lead to poor infant growth and nutrition, as well as increased mortality rates for both mothers and babies.
A recent study published in The BMJ suggests that cancer screening for patients with a life expectancy of less than 10 years may not be beneficial. The researchers analyzed data from five breast and four colorectal cancer trials, finding that the benefits of screening often outweigh the risks. However, they also emphasize that individu...
Researchers have successfully photographed a male jaguar and an adult male ocelot using automated wildlife monitoring cameras in the Santa Rita Mountains. The images provide clear evidence that the big cats travel between Southern Arizona's mountain ranges, shedding light on their distribution and ecology.
A 'cheater' mutation in Dictyostelium discoideum allows it to exploit its social partner by reducing the ability of normal Dictyostelium to form spores. This enables the cheater strain to outcompete wild type for survival and resources, with no observed fitness cost or impairment to lifespan.
Researchers found that Tsimane indigenous population in Bolivia does not exhibit the traditional Big Five personality traits, but rather a 'Big Two' of prosociality and industriousness. The study's findings suggest that lifestyle and ecology shape human psychology more broadly.
Sue Biggins, a geneticist at Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center, received the National Academy of Sciences Award in Molecular Biology for her work on understanding cell division and isolating kinetochores. Her research sheds light on how kinetochores separate chromosomes during cell division, with potential implications for cancer treatment.
Tropical Cyclone Narelle intensified into a tropical storm after NASA's TRMM satellite detected strong thunderstorms and 'hot towers' indicating intensification. The storm is expected to continue intensifying, potentially reaching wind speeds of 130 knots in three days.
Researchers at Harvard University have created a new device that can detect and distinguish between different types of twisted light waves, which can add an extra level of multiplexing to communication systems. This could potentially increase the rate of data transmission over limited bandwidth.
A study of 722 patients found that those taking beta-blockers for other conditions lived longer after receiving radiotherapy. The use of beta-blockers improved survival rates without disease spreading or recurring, but not locoregional progression-free survival.
Researchers at Scripps Research Institute have devised an inexpensive and sensitive method to mark and select cells. The technique utilizes the tight binding of two proteins that are cheaply obtainable but not found in human or other mammalian cells, enabling efficient cell sorting with minimal unwanted side effects.
NYU's Strauss is awarded NIH grant to develop a novel approach using oral blood to screen patients with periodontal disease for diabetes in general dental practices. The study aims to assess the accuracy, acceptability, and feasibility of this approach.
A special issue of the peer-reviewed journal Zebrafish highlights the development and implementation of student-led, inquiry-based active learning opportunities. The research articles focus on new curricula that emphasize process-oriented learning and scientific literacy.
Researchers found that infant gerbils nursed by females given separate vaccines developed antibodies for both illnesses, demonstrating the potential purpose of allosuckling. The study provides a framework for further studying allosuckling in the wild using traceable antibodies.
Research suggests a significant link between reduced biomass smoke pollution and decreased all-cause mortality, particularly among men. A study in Tasmania found that interventions to reduce wood heater use led to a 40% decrease in particulate air pollution and a 22.8% reduction in respiratory mortality for males alone.
The Biophysical Society has awarded Minority Affairs Committee Travel Awards to 14 students and postdoctoral fellows from diverse backgrounds, enabling them to present their research at the annual meeting. Recipients include Otonye Braide, Jackson Chief Elk, and others from universities across the US.
A new study reveals that the native Carolina Willow is thriving in Florida's St. Johns River due to stable water levels created by 1950s water-management projects. The invasive tree forms impenetrable thickets, using tremendous amounts of water and eliminating duck habitats.
Researchers have found an asteroid belt surrounding Vega, a star similar to the Sun, and believe multiple planets are orbiting it. The discovery was made using Infrared Space Telescopes, which detected infrared light emitted by warm and cold dust in discrete regions around the stars.
Thousands of melanoma patients are undergoing sentinel node biopsy despite a lack of clear evidence, with up to 96% of cases resulting in unnecessary surgery. The BMJ calls on funders and researchers to demand prompt publication of the full results of the MSLT-I trial.
Researchers use DNA barcoding to identify frog species and prevent hybridization, increasing chances of conservation success. The technique helps scientists understand genetic diversity in captive populations, contributing to the survival of threatened amphibian species.
Researchers found that post-operative intravenous paracetamol reduced cumulative morphine dose by 66% compared to continuous morphine infusion in infants undergoing major surgery. The study suggests that intravenous paracetamol may be an interesting alternative as primary analgesic in neonates and infants.
A Mayo Clinic-led study found that a combination of pazopanib and paclitaxel slows anaplastic thyroid cancer (ATC) by 50% in animal models. Researchers also observed marked tumor shrinkage in a human patient with metastatic ATC.
Researchers have discovered that the penicillin-producing fungus Penicillium chrysogenum reproduces sexually through a two-gender cycle. This leads to strains with new properties, including high penicillin production without contaminating genes.
Scientists at NREL have developed a new type of solar cell that converts 44% of sunlight into electrical energy, surpassing previous records. The cell uses multiple layers to capture different wavelengths of light and has the potential to be used in utility-scale energy production.
Researchers have identified a specific section of chromosome 2 that regulates von Willebrand factor levels, a key substance in blood clotting. The findings may lead to improved diagnosis and treatment for bleeding disorders.
A study published in Brain and Language found that six weeks of intensive language therapy improved naming objects and cognitive potential in seniors with chronic aphasia. The therapy also integrated the default mode network, a brain system involved in 'on standby' activity, suggesting long-term recovery potential.
A new study shows that fewer than one-in-five healthcare providers meet Medicare PQRS requirements. Radiologists are nearly twice as likely to qualify for bonuses, but face penalties if they don't improve their documentation and reporting. The study found that radiologists collectively may face penalties totaling over $100M in 2016.
The Irene Diamond Fund's gift will support Brown's Program in Public Health in developing and disseminating successful interventions for older adults. The initiative aims to improve quality of life and reduce care costs through collaborations with healthcare providers and community health centers.
A recent study found that many teenagers who received a complete hepatitis B vaccine series as infants can still contract the virus, especially if they have high-risk mothers or weak immune systems. Researchers suggest that a booster shot at age 15 may be necessary to prevent reinfection.
A team of astronomers analyzed Kepler mission data and found that 17% of sun-like stars have planets one to two times the diameter of Earth, orbiting close to their host stars. These planets may be rocky and habitable within the Goldilocks zone.
A new study proposes a possible pathway to benefit from drugs for lung cancer prevention by identifying microRNA-34c as a surrogate endpoint. Changes in its expression six months after treatment correlate with benefit from the drug, potentially speeding up the pace of discovery and bringing new agents to market.
A simulated Mars mission revealed rhythmic fluctuations in sodium levels with 7-day and monthly cycles, suggesting sodium storage and implications for blood pressure control. The study found that nearly all ingested salt was excreted in urine, but not daily, and that hormonal responses also fluctuated with these cycles.
A Mayo Clinic-developed two-hour training course increased adenoma detection rates among experienced endoscopists, lowering colorectal cancer risk. The study found that even non-academic physicians can benefit from the training.
A study found that taking a triple combination of blood pressure drugs and common painkillers increases the risk of serious kidney problems, especially at the start of treatment. Patients taking this combination are 31% more likely to develop kidney injury.
A new study by Oregon State University researchers reveals that Hmong women often make their own health decisions, but in an environment where screening is not discussed. The study found higher rates of breast and cervical cancer screenings among the Hmong population compared to national averages.
Obese individuals are more prone to asthma due to the regulation of airway diameter by leptin. Leptin therapy may provide a new treatment option for body weight-associated asthma, with existing drugs targeting parasympathetic signaling already available.
Tropical Depression Sonamu is showing signs of weakening due to increased wind shear, with maximum sustained winds near 30 knots. The storm's slow movement to the southeast is expected to continue until landfall on Jan. 10 in Malaysia.
For the first time, researchers have observed how reducing dimensions affects ferroelectrics' susceptibility to size- and strain-induced effects. This work provides a detailed modeling and experimental study of pyroelectricity, with direct implications for next-generation devices.
Researchers at Rice University and Moscow State University found that graphene oxide can bind to natural and human-made radionuclides, removing them from liquids. This discovery could be used to clean up contaminated sites like Fukushima nuclear plants, reduce costs of fracking, and revive rare earth metal mining.
Scientists used Cluster data to study the spatial characteristics of turbulence in the solar wind, finding evidence of small 'current sheets' that dissipate magnetic energy into heat. These current sheets play a crucial role in the dissipation of turbulence, contributing to the overall heating of the solar wind.
A University of Illinois study found that global warming could lead to increased nocturnal activity in ratsnakes, making them better adapted to warmer temperatures. This shift could result in a population expansion and altered ecosystem dynamics, with potential impacts on native bird populations.
A new study suggests introducing shareholder liability could reduce lock-in in the energy economy and spur a shift towards sustainable energy. The study argues that fossil fuel companies' profits are not tied to environmental damage, leading to a lack of incentive for change.