A new method for dating elephant tusks using radiocarbon levels could help enforce the ivory ban and save African elephants from extinction. The technique, developed by Columbia University researchers, can be applied to other endangered wildlife and is affordable for government agencies.
Researchers have developed two new methodologies to determine ALK status in non–small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients. The first method improves IHC assay sensitivity using a novel hapten and tyramide amplification, detecting low levels of ALK protein expression. The second method combines brightfield IHC with in situ hybridization f...
A citywide policy recommending pre-hospital triage of suspected stroke patients led to increased use of intravenous tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) and emergency medical services. Admissions for stroke and transient ischemic attack also increased, with faster onset-to-treatment times.
Researchers have identified a key proteasome regulatory mechanism that affects cellular protein balance and may hold promise for treating neurodegenerative diseases. Decreased insulin/IGF-1 signalling increases proteasome activity, accelerating protein degradation and cell death.
A total of 27 fires are currently burning in northeast Manitoba, with areas at risk due to dry conditions. The wildfires have burned approximately 126,000 hectares and pose a significant threat to local communities.
A study identifies 40 countries as most poorly funded for biodiversity conservation, harboring 32% of threatened mammalian species. The researchers suggest how funding should change to achieve the UN's 2020 goals on reducing extinction.
Researchers found a significant association between grandparents' and grandchildren's social class positions, even after parents' education and income were considered. The 'grandparents effect' suggests that grandparents' class background influences children's occupational choices.
Tropical Storm Dalila is closely tracking the southwestern coast of Mexico, prompting a tropical storm warning and watch. The National Hurricane Center expects Dalila to intensify over the next couple of days, with minimum central pressure dropping from 1003 millibars.
Researchers explore fungal biology and bioengineering applications to produce enzymes for releasing sugars from biomass, converting to biofuels and biobased chemicals. Advances in technology enable the development of new industrial processes.
Researchers at the University of Helsinki have found that high doses of famotidine can penetrate the blood-brain barrier and affect the histamine system in the brain. After four weeks of treatment, symptoms of schizophrenia decreased statistically significantly in patients who received famotidine.
A UC Riverside-led team has discovered a new chemical called quinabactin that mimics a naturally occurring stress hormone in plants to improve drought tolerance. This breakthrough could provide a powerful tool for farmers to protect their crops under extreme weather conditions.
Research found that crocodylians have unique multi-sensory organs called dome pressure receptors or Integumentary Sensory organs, which grant fingertip sensitivity and detect surface pressure waves. These sensors also help regulate body temperature and detect suitable habitats.
A new study has identified countries with the worst and best funding for biodiversity conservation, revealing a need for improved global distribution of conservation funds. The research found that underfunded countries often harbor high levels of threatened mammal biodiversity, highlighting opportunities for targeted conservation efforts.
Astronomer Diana Dragomir reveals the hidden identity of super-Earth HD 97658b, measuring its size and mass for the first time. The exoplanet's density suggests a thick atmosphere, but it orbits too close to its star to support liquid water oceans.
Researchers at Case Western Reserve University traced chronic health problems of adult inner-city women to childhood abuse and neglect. The study found that childhood trauma affects physical health in adulthood through lifetime drug dependence, smoking, and psychological distress.
A new UCLA-led study found that primary care physicians rarely discuss the risks and benefits of dietary supplements with their patients. The study analyzed audio recordings from over 1,400 office visits and discovered that only six out of 738 supplements were discussed in detail regarding all five major topics.
Research from USC Davis School of Gerontology shows that attributing every forgetful moment to getting older can worsen memory problems. However, framing tests in terms of preventing losses due to forgetting can actually enhance older adults' memory performance.
Two Salk studies reveal that neurons in area V4 of the visual cortex exhibit trade-offs between stimulus complexity and translation invariance. This challenges the existing understanding of neural processing, with implications for building more advanced computer systems and developing therapies for visual disorders.
Researchers identified a key role for Scara1 in clearing amyloid beta from the brain, which may lead to a new therapeutic approach for Alzheimer's. In mouse models, Scara1 deficiency accelerated A-beta deposition and death, while upregulation enhanced clearance.
Research published in the Journal of Leukocyte Biology found that excessive mast cells lead to delayed wound healing due to overproduction of IL-10. The study provides a potential therapeutic target for future drug development.
Research published in BMJ Open found that 19.9% of respondents had been bullied by colleagues within the past six months, with medical and dental staff reporting the highest levels of bullying. The study also highlighted the impact of bullying on psychological distress, job satisfaction, and increased intentions to leave the profession.
Researchers have made significant progress in developing new gene therapies to treat Sickle Cell Disease, malaria, and Mucopolysaccharidosis Type IIIA. In the Journal of Clinical Investigation, scientists successfully delivered a replacement gene to the brain in mice and dogs with MPSIIIA using intra-cerebrospinal fluid gene therapy.
Researchers developed a new method using radioactive carbon-14 from nuclear bomb tests to determine the age of ivory, helping to combat illegal poaching. The method has immediate applications in enforcing international trade bans and reducing demand for ivory.
A study by San Francisco State University found that older married couples tend to increase their avoidance of conflict discussions over time. This shift may be driven by age-related changes in socioemotional goals, where individuals prioritize less conflict and more positive experiences.
A new study by Duke University researchers found that short-term exposure to intense political violence can increase delinquent and aggressive behaviors in children. Children exposed to the violence displayed a range of increased problem behaviors, including bullying, vandalism, and skipping school.
Researchers found TP53 as the most commonly mutated tumor suppressor gene in hepatocellular carcinoma, leading to poor survival outcomes. The study also identified the Wnt/β-Catenin signaling pathway as a major oncogenic driver in liver cancer.
As climate change induces large changes to plant communities, disequilibrium will become the norm, with plants taking an extremely long time to adapt. This shift will challenge natural forest management, preservation status, and human introduction of new species, ultimately altering ecosystem balance.
A new study found that DNA particles in the blood can serve as markers of disease and may help identify patients with severely narrowed coronary arteries. Higher levels of these particles were linked to high levels of coronary artery calcium deposits.
Researchers at Pitt and MWRI found that placental cells can resist viral infection by transferring genetic material called microRNAs through tiny spheres called exosomes. This trait could lead to new approaches to combat viral infections during pregnancy.
A new pilot study found that watching an avatar model healthy weight loss behaviors could lead to significant weight loss for overweight women. After four weeks of treatment, the women in the study lost an average of 3.5 pounds.
Anurag Singh, PhD, has received a $100,000 ALA Lung Cancer Discovery Grant to study targeted therapies for drug-resistant lung cancers. He aims to develop strategies to block KRAS protein function and improve treatment outcomes.
Researchers at Arizona State University have made significant progress in understanding cell fate determination, a process that governs how cells develop and transition. By using mathematical modeling and synthetic biology techniques, they created artificial gene networks and observed the behavior of cells as they approached their tipp...
A key brain structure that regulates emotions works differently in depressed preschoolers compared to their healthy peers, according to new research. The findings suggest the children's brains may be experiencing an exaggeration of a normal developmental response to emotions.
A new study found that China's payments for ecosystem services programs led to significant forest growth and environmental benefits. However, the programs also had negative impacts on rural households and their livelihoods, highlighting the need for more sustainable policies.
New research by the University of Nottingham reveals that low levels of neonicotinoid insecticide can alter honeybee gene activity, affecting their development and lifespan. The study's findings support the European Commission's temporary ban on three such pesticides.
The study identifies regions with severe climate impact changes in various sectors, including water availability in the Mediterranean. It reveals that locations with strong model agreement are more reliable hotspots than those identified by a single projection, highlighting the need for risk management.
Researchers found that circadian rhythm disruption and alcohol combination leads to liver disease, a previously unrecognized risk factor. The study suggests that lifestyle factors like shift work and poor sleep can promote gut leakiness and increase disease susceptibility.
A study found that pregnant women with pre-pregnancy diabetes are more than three times as likely to become infected with MRSA before hospital discharge. Researchers also found no association between gestational diabetes and MRSA infection.
A Kansas State University-led study reveals that the TonB protein plays a central role in the uptake of iron by Gram-negative bacteria, which cause diseases like typhoid fever and meningitis. The research found that TonB acts as an electric motor that rotates in response to cellular energy flow, enabling iron acquisition into the cell.
The Fondation Leducq has awarded a $6 million grant to a new global research network focused on cardiac regeneration. The network, which includes researchers from the Cardiovascular Research Center at Mount Sinai, aims to identify cellular and molecular targets for advancing cardiac regenerative therapeutics.
Researchers discovered that Alzheimer's drugs designed to target amyloid plaques are ineffective against small Aβ clumps called oligomers. Future studies aim to develop new drugs specifically targeting these oligomers to potentially treat the disease.
Researchers at Arizona State University are developing a new DNA nanostructure-based vaccine to combat nicotine dependence. The approach uses precision control over the placement of antigenic components to stimulate an immune response and recruit antibodies capable of binding with nicotine, potentially improving efficacy and safety.
A new technique called 'renal denervation' has shown significant reductions in blood pressure and improved long-term stability. The procedure involves removing nerves connecting the kidney to the brain using radio-frequency energy, with minimal side effects and no need for tablets.
Typhoon Rumbia is bringing heavy rainfall, tropical-storm force winds, and flash flooding to southeastern China. The storm's western quadrant is interacting with Hainan Island, weakening the storm ahead of its expected landfall near Zhanjiang.
Researchers at UCLA's Eli and Edythe Broad Center have successfully established a foundation for using hematopoietic stem cells to treat sickle cell disease. The breakthrough technique uses anti-sickling genes to create healthy red blood cells that do not sickle, offering a revolutionary alternative to current treatments.
Researchers used biotechnologies to increase food production while lowering harmful gas emissions from cattle. The study found that biotechnology treatments improved milk production and reduced greenhouse gas emissions.
A study by Stanford researchers found that loud blasts can cause damage to the cochlea's hair cells and nerve cells, leading to permanent hearing loss. The researchers believe that treating the ear with certain medications after exposure to loud blasts may limit the damage.
Researchers are developing innovative systems to track infectious diseases, leveraging the internet and mobile phones. Digital epidemiology enhances transparency and understanding of outbreaks, predicting increased importance in future public health efforts.
A study published in The FASEB Journal found that moderate paternal exposures, such as cigarette smoking, increase the number of mutations transmitted to children and potentially future generations. DNA mutations were more frequent in families with low-income fathers who smoked cigarettes.
Valerie Hu's study reveals RORA regulates more than 2,500 genes, many involved in neuronal development and functions. The gene's expression is reduced in RORA-deficient brain tissues from individuals with autism.
The study found that it took a mean of 5.2 physician visits to obtain the correct diagnosis of cervical spondylotic myelopathy (CSM), highlighting delays in diagnosis due to lack of awareness among primary care physicians and community-based orthopedic surgeons.
A systematic analysis of acupuncture and in vitro fertilization (IVF) found that adding acupuncture to IVF treatment increased pregnancy success rates at fertility clinics with lower baseline pregnancy rates. The study, published in Human Reproduction Update, suggests that acupuncture may be beneficial as an add-on procedure for these ...
Researchers have developed a malaria vaccine using blood-stage parasites that are chemically attenuated, inducing immunity to multiple species. The study demonstrates protective immunity in mice for over 100 days, suggesting a promising approach to target human malaria species.
Researchers at the University of Leicester have made a groundbreaking discovery into the regulation of a key cancer drug target. The study, funded by £2.4 million from the Wellcome Trust, reveals that signalling molecules called inositol phosphates play a crucial role in controlling gene expression.
A study found that access to healthcare is a key driver in the increasing incidence of thyroid cancer. Insured individuals are more likely to be diagnosed with thyroid cancer than those without insurance, highlighting the need for targeted measures to prevent overdiagnosis.
A study published in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery reveals that nearly half of cosmetic plastic surgery patients take herbal supplements, which can increase complication risk. The study advises patients to stop taking supplements at least two weeks before surgery to minimize risks.
A Yale team identified a key molecular mechanism underlying higher-order thinking, which is impaired in schizophrenia. The discovery of the alpha7 nicotinic receptor's role in cognitive function may lead to new treatments for cognitive disorders.
The foundation awarded six new Clinical Investigators, including Omar Abdel-Wahab and Himisha Beltran, for their cancer research programs. The recipients will receive $450,000 each, while three others received Continuation Grants worth $300,000 to support ongoing research.
A recent study has found a significant link between long-term night shifts and an increased risk of breast cancer. Women who worked night shifts for 30 or more years were twice as likely to develop the disease, highlighting the importance of workplace policy.
A new approach to getting kids to eat their veggies involves teaching them a conceptual framework for nutrition, which encourages understanding of why eating a variety of foods is ideal and increases vegetable consumption. The study found that preschoolers who were taught about nutrition showed more knowledge about nutrition and increa...
A study found that exercise-induced improvements in glycemic control are dependent on pre-training blood glucose levels and type 2 diabetes status. Moderate-intensity aerobic exercise improved body weight, body fat, fasting plasma glucose, and 2-hour oral glucose tolerance test results.
Researchers found widespread 'modern slavery' in England among refugees and asylum seekers, with coercion and abuse common, and calls for improved welfare support and workplace regulation to prevent exploitation. The study's findings highlight the need to recognize and address forced labor as a criminal offense.
Researchers found that neuroblastoma cells with low levels of HDAC10 enzyme are more resistant to chemotherapy, and blocking this enzyme using autophagy prevents cancer cell survival. The study suggests a new approach for treating aggressive neuroblastoma tumors.
Researchers discovered a common biochemical thread to multiple diseases and found that CD36 draws soluble particles inside cells, triggering an inflammatory response. Blocking the CD36 receptor reduces inflammation and improves symptoms in mice with atherosclerosis.
Researchers found that patients at low risk of clinical deterioration can safely forgo overnight vital sign monitoring without negative effects. The study suggests tailoring vital sign collection based on patient risk to improve patient experience and safety in hospitals.
A new study published in JAMA Pediatrics suggests that early childhood respiratory infections may be a potential risk factor for developing type 1 diabetes mellitus. The research found associations between respiratory infections during the first six months of life and later development of persistent islet autoimmunity.
Researchers used computer models to study the predatory behavior of Thylacosmilus atrox, a 3.5 million-year-old sabre-toothed super-predator. The results show that the animal relied on powerful forearms and precise neck muscles to kill its prey efficiently.
Scientists at the Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research have developed a novel approach to forecast El Niño events, extending the prediction time to one year or more. The method employs network analysis and was tested successfully, predicting the absence of an El Niño event in the last year.
A new University of Missouri study found that countries with freedom of information (FOI) laws tend to have lower corruption rates than those without. Having an FOI law is linked to higher levels of human development and can help prevent corruption over time.
Scientists found superconductivity in carbon disulfide at -449°F, a highly disordered state that defies conventional understanding of superconductivity. The discovery could lead to new insights into the interplay between superconductivity, magnetism, and structural disorder.
Replacing older sedentary electronic games with newer active versions significantly boosts daily physical activity levels among kids, with a 3-4 minute increase. Removing all devices also leads to a 4-5 minute decrease in sedentary time and a small but significant increase in moderate to vigorous physical activity.
Researchers found that inactivating taste genes TAS1R3 and GNAT3 caused male sterility in mice, leading to malformed and fewer sperm. The study suggests that certain compounds, such as fibrates, could be negatively impacting human fertility.
Computer scientists programmed ACT-R, a cognitive simulation, to play Concentration, improving computer security and understanding human thought processes. Human participants played 20 times each to compare with the AI model's performance.
The GPM Core satellite completed two pre-vibration solar array deployment tests, simulating the satellite's deployment in space. The successful tests showcased the satellite's support system and air cushion design, which reduce friction and mimic how the solar array would float in space.
A new study by RI-MUHC researchers identifies a previously unknown mode of cancer progression, where infection-fighting white blood cells activate cancer cells and facilitate their spread to secondary tumours. Medications already used for other non-cancer diseases may prevent this mechanism of cancer spread or metastasis.
Researchers at Washington State University have created a superconductor capable of transmitting electrical current with zero resistance. By compressing carbon disulfide under high pressure and cooling it to near absolute zero, they achieved a material that exhibits properties like magnetism and superhardness.
The program, MARC U STAR, will provide four undergraduates per year with tuition, fees, and a stipend to pursue doctoral study in the biomedical sciences. The initiative is part of MSU's goal to create a more diverse future for biomedicine.
A new study by the University of Chicago and Northwestern University expands the habitable zone for alien planets orbiting red dwarfs, doubling the number of potentially habitable planets. The research suggests that up to 60 billion planets may be habitable in the Milky Way galaxy.
Ecologists Monica Turner and Jiangxiao Qiu mapped ecosystem services in the Yahara River watershed, finding complex interactions between provisioning, cultural, and regulating services. The study identifies areas with high levels of multiple services, suggesting a holistic approach to land management.
A new method developed by researchers at the University of Exeter uses computational social science to measure the aesthetic value of ecosystems. The study found that areas in Cornwall with high levels of photographer activity, such as Kynance Cove and Port Issac, have the highest aesthetic value.
The University of Nottingham has established a leading £18 million national power electronics research centre to develop the next generation of power electronics components and devices. The centre will bring together academics and industry partners to create an environment for innovation and knowledge transfer.
Seventy percent of US plastic surgeons use fat grafting techniques for breast operations, with 88% using it for breast reconstruction. However, issues like mammography interference and unpredictable results are noted as potential obstacles.
Researchers at Rice University analyzed thousands of mutant worms to identify genes controlling movement, revealing 87 new links in the process. The study also uncovered evidence for a protein-signaling pathway regulating locomotion, with implications for prioritizing genetic tests in humans.
Researchers have successfully used a genetic vector to efficiently transduce bone marrow cells from SCD patients, suggesting a potential treatment method. The study's findings support the use of autologous HSC transplant with genetically modified patient cells to treat sickle cell disease.
A study analyzing 35,191 patients with coronary heart disease found that about one-third of those who achieved low-density lipoprotein cholesterol goals underwent repeat lipid testing. This may result in significant healthcare resource overuse and waste, estimated to cost around $203,990 annually in one VA network.
A new eight-week intervention involving Head Start children and their parents produced significant improvements in attention, brain functions, and parental stress. The program's focus on selective attention and positive parenting practices led to improved cognitive abilities and reduced stress levels.
A new study published in Adapted Physical Activity Quarterly found that children with autism who struggled with motor skills such as catching and throwing had more severe social and communication skills. Developing motor skills can be crucial for children, enabling them to participate in physical activities and socialize with peers.
Researchers at UCSF discovered that vitamin C helps release brakes on genes in mouse stem cells, potentially playing a key role in normal development. This finding may lead to the use of vitamin C in IVF and cancer treatments, as it can stimulate gene activity similar to early embryonic development.
The UNC team developed biomarkers for challenging molecular subtypes of human breast cancer using genetically engineered mouse models. They found that these models accurately predicted human response to chemotherapy drugs, providing valuable insights into breast cancer treatment.
Researchers found that DHA is converted into maresin 1 (MaR1), which inhibits inflammation and shifts macrophage phenotype, providing a potential lead for new drugs to treat chronic inflammation.
Researchers developed a highly accurate method to detect ALK-rearranged non-small cell lung cancer using immunocytochemistry. The study found that this method had high sensitivity and specificity, making it suitable for prescreening NSCLC patients.
Researchers found that simultaneously controlling high blood pressure and cholesterol can significantly reduce the risk of heart disease. The study suggests that prescribing medications and regular doctor visits can greatly benefit certain populations, including older adults and Hispanic-Americans.
Salsalate shows promise as a type 2 diabetes treatment, reducing A1C and fasting blood glucose levels, but increases risk of hypoglycemia. Black men are less likely to have advanced colorectal neoplasia found at screening than white men, with disparities attributed to access and modifiable risk factors.
The Silver Fire, burning in southern New Mexico's Gila National Forest, has consumed over 133,625 acres as of July 1. The fire, caused by a lightning strike on June 7, is partially contained at 50 percent.
Researchers found that partition dependence, where breaking down possible outcomes into specific intervals, leads people to overestimate the likelihood of certain events. This bias was observed in various prediction markets, including lab experiments and natural markets, such as horse racing.
A new online risk calculator estimates an individual's likelihood of treatment resistance to antidepressants, providing a graphical estimate based on statistical patterns from the STAR*D study. The calculator aims to help clinicians design personalized treatment plans for patients with depression.
New studies examine how people react to terrorist threats, gamble for money vs suspense, and the link between sex motivation and satisfaction. Additionally, research challenges traditional birth order theories and reveals attentional biases in shopping situations.
Researchers found lower dopamine levels in long-term cannabis users compared to non-users, suggesting a possible link between cannabis use and motivation issues. The study also suggests that cannabis use may be the cause of altered dopamine systems, which could explain increased risk of mental illnesses like schizophrenia.
A study found that biological tumor necrosis factor inhibitors did not significantly reduce work loss compared to conventional treatment in patients with early rheumatoid arthritis. Early and aggressive treatment can help reverse increasing work loss days, but the cost of infliximab outweighs its benefits.
Scientists have identified four pathways involved in the formation of myofibroblasts that drive destructive runaway scarring in organs. These pathways provide leads for drug targets to control fibrosis.
A study of 582 patients with stage I non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) found SBRT to be safe and effective, with a three-year freedom from local progression rate of 79.6%. The biological effective dosage was the most significant factor influencing outcomes.
The American Thoracic Society has released a statement on adult and pediatric controlled organ donation after circulatory determination of death (DCDD), aiming to guide stakeholders involved in the process. The statement emphasizes respect for dying patients and their families, while promoting the recovery of viable organs.
A study by Princeton University researchers found that altitude sickness influences ethnic demographics in nations with steep terrain. The Han Chinese population tends to settle lower than 8,900 feet above sea level, while Tibetan settlements only begin at higher elevations, suggesting a direct effect of altitude on settlement patterns.