Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine have created a new model to allocate organs from deceased donors more equitably. The model uses mathematical formulas similar to those used in redistricting maps to analyze supply and demand factors, reducing geographic disparities by half and significantly decreasing waitlist deaths.
Researchers have identified key regions in the dengue virus genome that can be targeted to prevent replication. Artificial microRNAs were constructed to specifically target these sites, leading to effective inhibition of viral replication in humans. This innovative approach offers new hope for treating millions affected by dengue fever.
A new guide from the Infectious Diseases Society of America and American Society for Microbiology provides guidance on using laboratory tests to diagnose infectious diseases. The guide highlights key findings, including the importance of accurate lab results and proper specimen collection and management.
Researchers found that choline supplementation improved long-term memory retention and attention in rats, with prenatal choline intake also benefiting offspring. The study suggests a potential link between choline nutrition and cognitive function.
The Wellcome Trust launches a global funding scheme to investigate the impact of climate change, urbanization, and nutrition on human health. Researchers can apply for up to £250,000 support for pilot projects addressing behaviour change, global nutrition, and ecological public health.
Researchers propose a new theory linking cancer's evolutionary roots to ancient life forms. If correct, it may transform cancer therapy by revealing a systematic response to stress or physical challenges.
A new drug called Bendavia has been shown to prevent acute kidney injury (AKI) in animal models and is currently being studied for kidney disease. By protecting the unique fatty compound cardiolipin, Bendavia helps preserve mitochondrial structure and function, leading to accelerated ATP recovery and reduced cell death.
Astronomers at the University of Warsaw discovered that stellar monsters with masses 200-300 times that of our Sun will not collide until billions of years from now. Due to their large distance apart and lack of expansion, there is no mechanism for their orbit to tighten, making a spectacular collision impossible.
Researchers identified a young woman with an estrogen receptor-α mutation that blocks the hormone's action, resulting in high estrogen levels and reproductive issues. The study found that the woman had significantly elevated estrogen levels compared to normal ranges, despite having no effect from estrogen.
A study found that whole chickens purchased from farmers markets had significantly higher levels of bacteria like Campylobacter and Salmonella compared to those from grocery stores. This suggests interventions like antimicrobial rinses may be necessary to lower pathogen loads on poultry carcasses.
Australian scientists discovered that up to 30% of the human genome is conserved in RNA structure, contrary to previous estimates. This finding suggests that non-coding DNA may play a crucial role in regulating gene expression and development.
Researchers from UCL's Mullard Space Science Laboratory used data from the Japanese Hinode spacecraft to measure the Sun's magnetic field. The study found that the field is approximately ten times weaker than previously estimated.
A study analyzing data from 1000 black and white patients with kidney disease found that black patients experienced a faster progression to kidney failure. The disparity was predominantly present in patients with diabetes and those who excreted greater amounts of protein, indicating more advanced kidney dysfunction.
Research in mice suggests that obese fathers' changes to microRNAs increase the risk of daughters being overweight/obese and both sons and daughters developing diabetes-like diseases. Fathers' diet and body composition at conception may affect future child's health.
A recent global study found that community access to computer and Internet technology remains crucial for connecting people to information and skills in an increasingly digital world. The study highlights the benefits of public access venues for marginalized groups, including education, employment, and health outcomes.
Large earthquakes from distant parts of the globe are triggering tremors around US waste-fluid injection wells, according to a new study. The phenomenon could indicate critically stressed faults that may soon host larger earthquakes.
A study published in Science found a strong correlation between seismic activity and operations at the Salton Sea Geothermal Field in southern California. The researchers tracked earthquake activity with production data for the geothermal power plant and found that seismicity increased as operations expanded.
Researchers found that elephants increase their skin's permeability during hot summer months and rely on evaporation of sweat to cool down. The study suggests that climate plays a significant role in an elephant's water dependence, with different species requiring varying amounts of water for cooling.
A University of Alberta study found that new moms are weaning their infants early and only 54% were exclusively breastfeeding three months after giving birth. The study suggests addressing concerns and misconceptions about breastfeeding is crucial for promoting long-term breastfeeding.
Typhoon Soulik's eye is filling with clouds, indicating a weakening storm, but satellite data shows the eyewall is reforming. The Joint Typhoon Warning Center reports that the storm is forecast to move near Japan and Taiwan before making landfall in China.
Researchers at IMIM have discovered a new function of the IB protein involved in squamous-cell carcinoma development. The study found that nuclear IB is lost during tumour progression, making it a potential biomarker for diagnosis and prognosis.
A new study reveals that the brain's representation of complex features may start earlier and be more cumulative than previously thought. Researchers analyzed nerve cell pairs in two adult macaques and found that the neuronal circuit generating pair-association was only in area TE, not in area 36.
A team of scientists at the Salk Institute for Biological Studies has identified a critical pathway in cell cycle control that, when disrupted, leads to cancer cell proliferation. Shortened telomeres, which occur with cellular aging, activate a DNA damage response that arrests cell growth.
A recent study by NOAA scientists reveals that distinct groups of killer whales gather seasonally and exhibit low levels of gene flow, indicating separate subpopulations. Genetic evidence suggests a revision to the current stock designations for killer whales in the western Gulf of Alaska and Aleutian Islands.
Researchers will explore how technological changes drove changes in the industry, including the impact on programme appearance and editing pace. Former TV technicians will share their experiences adapting to new technologies.
Researchers found that 'virus-negative' genital warts can harbor small amounts of more distantly related viruses that escaped previous detection. The study identified 23 new types of HPV and two known sequences, highlighting the diverse pool of previously unknown HPV types infecting humans.
A collaborative effort by Autism Speaks has found full genome sequencing examining the entire DNA code of individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and their family members. The study identified genetic variations associated with risk for ASD, including de novo, X-linked, and inherited DNA lesions in four new genes.
For the first time, Hubble has measured the visible color of an exoplanet, revealing HD 189733b to be a deep azure blue due to its hazy and turbulent atmosphere. The planet's atmosphere is scorching with temperatures over 1000 degrees Celsius and features glass rain.
Scientists have identified a novel mechanism of cardiac regeneration in zebrafish, where muscle cells from the atrium actively migrate into damaged parts of the heart muscle in the ventricle. This process, known as transdifferentiation, results in the formation of new ventricular tissue and restoration of cardiac function.
Researchers have created synthetic receptors that mimic biological nicotine receptors, showing promise in clinical detection and treatment therapies for nicotine addiction. The new molecularly imprinted polymers (MIPs) demonstrate high selectivity and effectiveness across a wide pH range.
A case study reported by Jeong Pyo Seo et al. in Neural Regeneration Research (2013) highlights the importance of investigating delayed gait recovery in stroke patients who cannot walk within 3-6 months after onset. The patient, a 32-year-old female, showed improved gait function despite severe spasticity and sensory-motor dysfunction.
A new study using whole genome sequencing identifies 19% of deleterious de novo mutations and 31% X-linked or autosomal inherited alterations in autism spectrum disorder. The findings also reveal genetic variants in several risk genes, including CAPRIN1, AFF2, VIP, SCN2A, KCNQ2, NRXN1, and CHD7.
Researchers at the University of Montana are building Project Minerva, a dedicated observatory to detect Earth-like exoplanets. The project aims to identify planets in the habitable zone with suitable conditions for liquid water and life.
Researchers at University College London found a significant association between parental divorce during childhood and elevated levels of inflammatory markers in adulthood. Children who experienced parental separation before age 16 had a 16% higher level of C-reactive protein at age 44.
Researchers analyzed data from 78 subjects who underwent ACLR and found that female athletes were over four times more likely to suffer an injury within 24 months than their healthy counterparts. The study also showed a trend for female subjects to be two times more likely to suffer an injury on the opposite knee.
Researchers have gained groundbreaking knowledge about proteases, enzymes that play a role in cancer cell development. The study reveals that proteases can bind to each other instead of just cleaving, which may lead to the development of new anticancer drugs.
A study by researchers found that forests in the northern hemisphere increase their water use efficiency as atmospheric carbon dioxide concentrations rise, exceeding theoretical expectations. This adaptation helps plants conserve water despite increased photosynthesis, potentially shifting the global water and carbon cycle.
Tropical Storm Chantal weakened to a remnant low pressure area over Hispaniola on July 10, with NASA tracking its demise. The storm brought heavy rainfall and gusty winds to the region, and its remnants are expected to affect Jamaica, Cuba, and the Bahamas.
Research shows that selective grazing by slugs can prevent key grassland species from taking hold and reduce overall plant diversity. The team found that some of the most ecologically important species, such as red clover, are particularly tasty to slugs, which may hinder restoration efforts.
A new review published in The Obstetrician & Gynaecologist recommends that all women be asked about postpartum psychosis risk factors before conception to ensure early recognition and prompt treatment. Women with bipolar disorder are at high risk of developing postpartum psychosis, with a 1 in 4 chance.
A new study found that acceptance of what cannot be changed is crucial for older adults' happiness after losing independence. The ability to exert control was also linked to satisfaction, but secondary control - adapting to environment changes - played a more significant role in care residents.
During the Great Recession, high school students in the U.S. became more concerned about others and the environment. According to a study published in Social Psychological and Personality Science, recession-era students were more interested in social issues and environmental concerns.
A new study estimates that human-caused outdoor air pollution causes around 470,000 premature deaths each year due to increased ozone levels. Additionally, fine particulate matter (PM2.5) is linked to an estimated 2.1 million annual deaths. The effects of past climate change on air quality and health are found to be relatively small.
Researchers developed a computer-based tool to analyze babies' cries for subtle acoustic features that can indicate neurological problems or developmental disorders. The new analyzer uses machine learning algorithms to evaluate over 80 parameters, offering non-invasive ways to measure disruptions in young babies' brains and behavior.
Rising temperatures cause snakes to become more active, devouring mosquito-eating birds like the Acadian flycatcher. This increase in snake predation has severe consequences for agriculture, disease prevention, and tourism.
Researchers at UBC have discovered that methylation of a protein called Yap is critical for the function of the Hippo pathway. Loss of the Set7 enzyme resulted in cell growth and larger organs, suggesting potential for drugs to activate this pathway to stop cancer cell growth.
High school students became more concerned for others and the environment during the Great Recession, according to a new study. Researchers found that students who graduated from high school during the recession were more interested in social issues and saving energy.
Researchers have discovered a way to kill cancer cells by blocking a specific protein that enables them to survive nutrient starvation. This breakthrough could lead to a more targeted and effective treatment for various types of cancer.
Researchers discovered significant lionfish populations and large predatory fish at 300 feet deep in the Atlantic Ocean. The findings raise concerns about the control of this invasive species that's devastating native fish populations.
Research reveals that people with individualistic mindsets prioritize an item's inherent value, while those with collectivist mindsets focus on the relationships between items. This difference in mindset affects consumer decision-making, including choices about favorite sets and purchasing decisions.
The IFAD-ICRAF Programme will develop and scale up pro-poor, sustainable biofuel production models in Asia, Africa, and Latin America. It aims to create energy, food security, livelihood, and income-generating opportunities for poor households.
A clinical trial assessing an anti-melanoma vaccine found that it enhances the effectiveness of the immune system by increasing IL-12p70 production. Six out of seven patients exhibited a vaccine-stimulated immune response, with three showing clinically significant changes in tumor progression.
The GammaPod uses tens of thousands of beams of radiation to focus on tumors with pinpoint accuracy, minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissue. Clinical trials are underway to test the device's effectiveness as an alternative to invasive surgery and traditional radiation therapies.
A team of researchers found geologic evidence that challenges the conventional explanation for Antarctica's initial glaciation. Volcanic rocks in the Scotia Sea suggest an ancient volcanic arc may have blocked ocean currents, leading to a colder climate.
A recent study has identified 1,274 genes in the Y chromosome of cattle, a significant increase compared to other primates. This discovery may help biologists better understand how cattle and other mammals evolved and improve fertility in the dairy and beef industry.
A new species of snow scorpionfly was discovered in Alaska, providing insights into the evolutionary origin of fleas. The insect belongs to a group that dates back over 145 million years, with fossil evidence supporting its Jurassic-era origins.
Scientists discovered a new, extinct family of insects in British Columbia and Washington state that helps understand how animals responded to global climate change. The Eorpidae family's extinction raises questions about the impact of evolutionary diversification and climate change on communities.
Researchers at UC Irvine have identified a set of genes in female Heliconius butterflies that allow them to detect toxic chemicals and choose healthy host plants. This unique behavior is vital for the survival of the species, as it ensures their larvae receive the necessary nutrients to thrive.
Researchers have redefined the understanding of how muscles generate power, expanding the scope of disease treatments. High-energy X-rays and cloud computing facilitated this breakthrough, revealing that muscle force comes from both filament overlap and lattice work.
Researchers at MIT create systems that can translate natural-language descriptions into working code in a few narrow cases. The method involves mapping regular expressions to equivalent natural-language expressions, enabling programmers to specify complex searches using simple language.
Research at University of Liverpool found variations in Earth's core affect day length over periods of one to 10 years. The study resolves previously poorly characterised changes and provides new insight into the chemistry and mineralogy of the Earth's deep interior.
In the western Weddell Sea, Antarctic glass sponges have increased in density threefold between 2007 and 2011, colonizing new habitats and outcompeting other species for food. These rapid growths suggest that communities at the sea bed react more quickly to climate-related changes than previously thought.
Native predators in the Caribbean cannot control the aggressive lionfish population growth, highlighting the need for human intervention. The study found that lionfish populations were lower in protected reefs due to targeted removal by reef managers.
A Vanderbilt research program trains community pediatricians to diagnose autism, leading to a significant increase in diagnoses within their practices. The training improved diagnostic accuracy and shifted the comfort level of discussing ASD diagnoses with caregivers.
A recent study found that the protein Tissue Factor promotes the growth of both metastatic pancreatic cancer and primary breast cancer. Researchers identified a novel monoclonal antibody targeting this protein, which showed promise in stopping tumor growth in animal models.
Researchers at Albert Einstein College of Medicine have found that nerves play a critical role in both the development and spread of prostate tumors. The study suggests that targeting the autonomic nervous system may lead to novel therapies for preventing and treating prostate cancer.
The University of Akron researchers aim to understand the fundamental origin of glass transition, with potential applications in flexible electronics, corrosion-resistant coatings, and vaccine preservation. They plan to use biomimicry to evolve new materials with desired properties.
Physicists at NIST create high-Q resonators in a minute, significantly reducing production time. The technique enables the mass production of compact frequency combs for various applications.
Bioengineering professor Dimitrios Morikis and research scientist Monte Radeke are searching for chemical compounds targeting the complement system to treat age-related macular degeneration. They will use computational screening, experimental testing, and human retinal cell-based models to identify potential treatments.
Researchers discover cell competition in early embryo, where cells with higher Myc protein levels eliminate those with lower levels. This mechanism optimizes the development of long-lived organisms like humans by selecting suitable cells.
A new study reveals that nearly half of Mexican American children aged 6-17 show signs of metabolic syndrome, a cluster of warning signs for diabetes and heart disease. Early screening is critical to identify risk factors and intervene before chronic health problems develop.
Researchers gathered extensive data using airborne and orbiting instruments to study the calving process of Pine Island Glacier. The analysis promises to improve understanding of how glaciers calve and shed light on future ice sheet changes.
A new study published in Hepatology reveals that higher body mass index (BMI) is associated with an increased risk of gallstone disease, especially in women. The research found a significant correlation between BMI and gallstone risk, with women facing a higher risk than men.
A 5-year study at Drexel University's School of Public Health aims to investigate the impact of medical marijuana on young adults' physical and psychological health. The study, funded by a $3.3 million NIH grant, will recruit 380 participants and explore the effects of dispensaries on health outcomes.
Researchers have found a naturally occurring molecule, Urocortin, which protects cells in the joints from being destroyed in osteoarthritis. The discovery could lead to the development of new medicines to prevent joint degradation.
A study published in Animal Behaviour found that ship noise disrupts feeding for common shore crabs, while also heightening their predation risk. The research suggests that the combination of reduced foraging time and increased vulnerability to predators may negatively impact crab growth, fitness, survival, and harvested populations.
Gene therapy vectors derived from HIV successfully treat metachromatic leukodystrophy and Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome, restoring missing protein and reversing neurodegenerative process. The treatment is safe and effective, offering hope for patients with severe genetic diseases.
Dr. Daniel Kahneman, a Nobel laureate and CASBS Fellow, receives the award for his work integrating insights about decision-making from psychological research into economics. The SAGE-CASBS award recognizes outstanding achievement in advancing the understanding of behavioral sciences as they are applied to pressing social issues.
A team at Jadavpur University has developed a computer algorithm that can analyze the minutiae of blood vessels revealed by an infra-red scan of a person's face. The thermogram shows the pattern of blood vessels almost down to the smallest capillary with an accuracy of over 97%, making it suitable for high-security applications.
A computer model was developed to assess how different levels of segregation would affect violence in Jerusalem. The study found that social distance is a key mechanism explaining violence, with higher levels increasing the likelihood of violent encounters.
Researchers will assess the effectiveness of palliative care home health visits in treating people with HIV and other chronic illnesses. The four-year study aims to improve quality of life and outcomes for patients with HIV, focusing on symptom management, coping, and advance care planning.
Researchers discovered a fast-growing community of glass sponges in the Antarctic, contradicting their long lifespan estimates. The seafloor takeover is driven by climate change-induced ice shelf collapse, potentially benefiting glass sponges as winners in the process.
Researchers have developed two monoclonal antibodies that boost the immune system to fight neuroblastoma, a form of childhood cancer. The study found that 40-60% of tumors treated with the antibodies regressed in laboratory models, leading to long-term survival.
The NASA Hubble Space Telescope has confirmed the presence of a true blue planet, HD 189733b, by detecting changes in light color as it passes behind its star. The observations indicate a deep blue color due to a hazy atmosphere with high clouds containing silicate particles.
A new gene therapy approach using a partially inactivated lentivirus has shown significant improvement in three children with Wiskott-Aldrich Syndrome. The therapy corrects the genetic defect in blood cells by introducing a normal WASP gene, reducing the risk of cancer-promoting genes.
A novel data adaptive technique is used to suppress artifacts and extract regional brain activities from EEG signals. The study successfully identifies individual motor imagery based on alpha component activities, revealing distinct regional brain responses to different stimuli.