Researchers at Caltech have found that neural-crest stem cells differentiate into microvillous neurons, which sense pheromones, and are distinct from ciliated neurons that detect volatile scents. The discovery sheds light on how olfactory neurons form and may lead to new treatments for conditions like anosmia.
Researchers discovered that individuals with large choice sets overestimate probabilities of rare events and take riskier gambles. Participants gathered more information with smaller choice sets, but repeated this pattern with larger sets.
Researchers characterized SUDEP in a mouse model of Dravet Syndrome and found that a prolonged slowing of the heart beat preceded SUDEP. Treatment with certain drugs reduced the incidence of SUDEP, suggesting mortality results from seizure-related parasympathetic hyperactivity.
A mathematical model of a butterfly's flight revealed that the insect uses swirling vortices to provide lift, but also experiences turbulent airflow. The study found that the pitching angle of the thorax is crucial for controlled periodic flight, allowing butterflies to sense and adjust their motion to maintain stability.
A study found that babies respond to angry tone of voice, even when asleep, and exhibit greater brain activity in stress-related areas. This suggests that exposure to parental conflicts may impact the way infants process emotions and stress.
The Geiger Gibson Program in Community Health Policy has selected eight young Emerging Leaders for their outstanding policy and leadership achievements. The award highlights the future leaders of community health centers, recognizing commitment, motivation, professional achievement, and leadership qualities.
Researchers have found that the lymphatic system is crucial for removing cholesterol from peripheral tissues, including artery walls. The study suggests that therapies supporting lymphatic transport could enhance cholesterol clearance and potentially treat atherosclerotic vascular disease.
A UK study found that compulsory community treatment (CTOs) for mentally ill patients did not reduce rates of hospitalization. The study compared 166 patients under CTOs with 167 patients released under Section 17 leave and found no significant differences in readmission rates or clinical outcomes.
Recent studies suggest that the speed of light may fluctuate due to ephemeral vacuum particles, which could be testable with ultra-fast lasers. Researchers propose that physical constants like speed of light are indications of total elementary particles in nature.
A Temple University study found that well-maintained urban vegetation can lower crime rates, particularly for robberies and assaults, by encouraging social interaction and community supervision. The presence of grass, trees, and shrubs is associated with reduced crime rates in Philadelphia.
Researchers found that long-term treatment with carmustine decreased amyloid beta levels by 75% in a mouse model of Alzheimer's disease. Carmustine, a cancer treatment, shows promise as a potential drug for reducing Alzheimer's symptoms.
Researchers at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia report complete remission in two pediatric ALL patients treated with novel cell therapy. The treatment, known as CTL019, uses engineered T cells that target a specific protein on the surface of leukemia cells, achieving a potent anticancer effect.
Researchers at the University of Bergen have discovered that tunicates can be used as a biofuel source and sustainable fish feed. The cellulose, protein, and Omega-3 fatty acids in ascidiacea make it an attractive alternative to traditional energy sources.
The Wyss Institute has received a $9.25 million contract from DARPA to advance its sepsis therapeutic device, which uses magnetic nanobeads to cleanse the blood of pathogens without removing human cells or fluids. The technology has shown promise in treating deadly bloodstream infections that kill critically ill patients and soldiers.
Despite declining fertility, women over 40 require effective contraception to avoid pregnancy. The research highlights the benefits of birth control in reducing symptoms such as heavy menstrual bleeding and hot flashes, while also decreasing the risk of endometrial cancer by 50%.
Researchers developed a mathematical model to analyze lung cancer spread patterns, revealing that cancer cells move around the body in multiple directions. The study identified specific areas of the body as 'spreaders' and 'sponges,' which could guide physicians to targeted treatment options.
A new study published in Conservation Biology analyzed data on marine mammal and ecosystem research surveys in the Southern California Bight to identify areas with high whale densities. The researchers found that certain shipping routes pose a higher risk to fin whales, while others may be safer for humpback whales.
Whole genome sequencing reveals that drug-resistant bacterial infections can be transmitted from animals to humans, highlighting the role of livestock as a potential reservoir of antibiotic-resistant bacteria. The study confirms animal-to-human transmission of MRSA, a disease-causing bacterium with resistance to methicillin.
A large observational follow-up study found that women with lung cancer who consumed more soy food prior to diagnosis lived longer. Soy contains isoflavones that may affect molecular pathways involved in tumor development and growth.
A 'moderate' red tide is expected in New England this spring and summer due to toxic algae Alexandrium fundyense. The forecast is based on cyst abundance data and toxicity records, with a range of bloom scenarios possible.
Researchers propose new experimental method to study electronic structure of argon ions using synchrotron radiation and coincidence techniques. This approach offers huge intensity and accurate initial state configuration, leading to potential breakthroughs in ion research.
A review of medical literature reveals limited data on experience-related outcomes in children's surgery, with hospital-level characteristics strongly associated with improved outcomes for complex procedures. Surgeon-level factors appear more important for common, less resource-demanding procedures.
Researchers developed a new device called Human Spinal Cord Modulation System (HSCMS) to deliver therapeutic stimulation in a more targeted way. The device is designed to be in direct contact with the spinal cord, providing improved pain relief for patients with chronic pain.
Researchers at UNC have found that protein palladin enhances cancer-associated fibroblasts' ability to break down barriers and create pathways for tumors to spread. This discovery could lead to new treatments and screening options for pancreatic cancers.
A new study by Aalto University and Texas A&M University found that customers who engage with businesses on social media contribute 5.6% more revenue than those who don't. The research also identified key factors for success, including user-friendly sites, regular updates, and personalized messages.
A study by Imperial College London found that adults in India who work in smokefree environments are more likely to live in a smokefree home. The implementation of smokefree legislation has been associated with reduced second-hand smoke exposure at home, highlighting the effectiveness of such laws.
Dr. Nancy Chiaravalloti, a leading expert in cognitive rehabilitation research, has been awarded a $43,494 grant to study the efficacy of a new treatment for memory loss in multiple sclerosis (MS) patients. The one-year pilot project aims to improve learning and memory skills of individuals with MS.
A six-week study in Germany showed that test products significantly reduced exposure to certain toxicants, including acrolein and tobacco-specific nitrosamines. The results demonstrate the potential of these technologies to lower health risks associated with smoking.
Researchers have developed a new technology called photoacoustic flowoxigraphy that allows for the measurement of oxygen in individual red blood cells in real-time. This breakthrough could lead to a better understanding of oxygen delivery to normal and diseased tissues, as well as how different disease therapies impact oxygen levels.
Research suggests that prolonged screen viewing time, especially TV watching, may be linked to increased risks of antisocial behavior in young children. However, the authors note that the risk is very small and that spending time playing electronic games has no impact on behavior.
Researchers have made a breakthrough in creating 'bio-batteries' by discovering that bacteria can produce an electric current when touching a mineral surface. This allows for the direct transfer of electrical charge through bacterial cell membranes, paving the way for efficient microbial fuel cells.
Researchers found that increasing equity in conservation benefits compromises ability to maximize conservation outcomes. However, they also discovered that both equity and conservation can be achieved by raising total budgets.
Two studies published in Nature provide unprecedented insights into the biology of wheat, shedding light on its adaptation and domestication. The research reveals the importance of transposable elements and microRNAs in shaping the genome, as well as their potential applications in improving crop yields and disease resistance.
Researchers characterized SUDEP in a mouse model of DS, finding that treatment with drugs reducing parasympathetic activity reduced incidence. Lymphatic vasculature also plays crucial role in cholesterol removal from arteries, with impaired lymphatic growth leading to increased cholesterol retention. A new therapeutic target is identif...
Researchers at the University of York and Joint Institute for High Temperatures used a petawatt laser to remove deeply bound electrons from atoms, creating a distinctive plasma state. The experiment aims to further understanding of fusion energy generation, which employs hotter plasmas than the Sun.
A recent study suggests that well-managed residential development, such as provided by homeowners associations, can support native wildlife and promote species diversity in suburban neighborhoods. HOAs manage multiple properties, covering larger areas and implementing coordinated urban conservation initiatives.
A Kansas State University-led team is researching an antiviral drug for market use to prevent and treat norovirus infection. The team has identified protease inhibitors with potential for preventing and treating norovirus, a contagious stomach illness infecting 1 in 15 Americans annually.
A University of Michigan-led study found that supine sleep increases the risk of low birth weight and subsequently stillbirth in pregnant women. The researchers suggest that encouraging pregnant women to avoid sleeping on their backs could be a simple approach to improve pregnancy outcomes.
A study led by University of Washington researchers shows that genetic engineering can increase dATP levels in heart cells, leading to improved heart muscle function and greater force of contraction. The findings suggest a potential therapeutic treatment for heart failure conditions.
A team of Harvard scientists has successfully measured the magnetic charge of single particles of matter and antimatter, achieving a significant increase in accuracy for antiprotons. This breakthrough could provide new insights into the nature of matter and help address fundamental questions about the universe.
A survey of over 600 board directors found that women are more likely to consider the rights of others and take a cooperative approach to decision-making. This results in better performance for their companies, with women-led boards experiencing higher returns on equity and lower rates of bankruptcy.
Researchers at University of California, San Diego Moores Cancer Center identified a humanized monoclonal antibody targeting CD44, directly killing chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) cells. The antibody, RG7356, induces apoptosis in CLL cells expressing ZAP-70, a protein found in roughly half of CLL patients.
A new study by Binghamton University researchers found that gay parents are judged more negatively than straight parents when displaying the same negative parenting behaviors. The study suggests that this prejudice can add stress to the already challenging job of parenthood and limit opportunities for adoption or foster care.
Researchers have developed nanoparticles that can be used to create scintillation devices capable of detecting a wide range of X-rays and gamma rays. The nanocomposite detectors showed promising results, but further refinement is needed to optimize their performance.
The Harvard Museum of Natural History now features an interactive exhibit that showcases the evolutionary history of millions of species, allowing visitors to zoom and scroll through the Tree of Life. The DeepTree software and FloTree program enable users to explore evolutionary relationships and simulate evolution in action.
The NHS has launched a new 46 gene test to predict cancer patients' responses to treatment, using the latest DNA sequencing technology. The test aims to reduce harm from side effects and save costs by getting patients on the right treatments straightaway.
New Laser Ablation ICP-MS technique identifies rutile-bearing rocks and reconstructs their thermal and pressure histories. This breakthrough enables faster analysis of tiny rutile grains, shedding light on geological processes.
Organic semiconductor technology has the potential to create flexible devices like video screens that bend like paper. A $400,000 NSF CAREER Award will support research on the physical structure and electronic properties of single crystals.
A mysterious parasitoid wasp, Seleucus cuneiformis, has been found on a rare European fern sawfly, Blasticotoma filiceti. The study, published in Journal of Hymenoptera Research, reveals the unusual biology of this parasite, including its symbiotic relationship with ants, which live in symbiosis based on food for protection.
The US Department of Agriculture has awarded Washington State University a $1.6 million grant to develop domestic quinoa production, meeting growing demand for the high-protein crop. Researchers aim to identify best varieties and breeding practices for organic production.
A new study by the University of Michigan found that Michigan hospitals have significantly lower rates of catheter-associated urinary tract infections (UTIs) compared to other US hospitals. The study, which used a low-tech approach to timely removal of urinary catheters, resulted in a 25% decrease in UTI rates at Michigan hospitals.
Scientists used DNA extracted from insects' stomachs to identify the plants they eat, with results matching prior observations and taking significantly less time. This study provides a new method for understanding plant-herbivore interactions and has implications for biodiversity research.
Long-term data from the Hubbard Brook Experimental Forest suggests a trade-off between forest productivity and water flow. A study found that applying calcium silicate to restore soil calcium levels resulted in an increase in forest water use within 5 months.
Researchers from UW-Madison School of Medicine and Public Health discovered a core circuit responsible for the variability in symptoms shown by patients with severe anxiety. The study identified two distinct brain circuits: one shared among all anxious individuals and another specific to particular symptoms.
Researchers at UC Irvine have identified a novel molecular mechanism that triggers long-term memory formation, which may be linked to intellectual disabilities. The study suggests that mutations in the Baf53b gene can impair synaptic function and inhibit long-term memories.
A Canadian study found that more than half of lower-back MRIs ordered at two hospitals were either inappropriate or of questionable value for patients. Family doctors were more likely to order these tests compared to specialists, highlighting the need for better education on when to use MRI scans.
Researchers identified a unique subset of helper T cells that stimulates protective antibody responses following seasonal influenza vaccinations. The study found that these T cells boost production of existing antibodies by stimulating memory B cells, but do not help produce new antibodies by naïve B cells.
Researchers at Rice University have developed a new material that accelerates the development of high-power lithium-ion batteries suitable for electric cars. The hybrid ribbons of vanadium oxide and graphene work well for lithium-ion storage, providing both high energy density and significant power density.
Researchers analyzed data from 100 instrumented vehicles and found that occasional seatbelt users are more likely to buckle up for trips on high-speed roads. The study suggests that perceived convenience plays a significant role in seatbelt use, with drivers opting out of wearing belts during local errands.
Researchers have successfully rejuvenated the blood of mice by reprogramming their stem cells, reversing epigenetic changes that occur with age. This breakthrough could potentially lead to new treatments for diseases such as leukemia, where cancer often originates in older, damaged bone marrow.
A new study found that people with higher levels of infection in their blood, including cold sores, were more likely to have cognitive problems than those with lower levels. The research suggested a link between infection and increased risk of low scores on cognition tests.
A new study led by Boston University School of Public Health researchers found that the chemical TDCPP was present in 99% of dust samples from participants' homes, vehicles and offices. The office environment was the strongest predictor of metabolized TDCPP in urine, with lower concentrations in newer buildings.
New research from Johns Hopkins suggests that limiting medical interns' work hours to 16 hours per shift increased the number of potentially dangerous handoffs of patients. The study found no significant increase in sleep duration, despite reduced training time and perceived lower quality of care.
A new study from Brigham Young University finds that only 10% of internet users post reviews and 15% comment, question or share health information on social media. The researchers believe more collective wisdom from the crowd could improve health-related discussions online.
A novel T-cell therapy has demonstrated complete remission in two pediatric patients with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), a high-risk type of cancer. The treatment, which reprograms the immune cells to target specific cancer cells, has shown promising results but also carries potential side effects.
A new UBC study reveals that North American service workers are more likely to retaliate against rude customers, while Chinese workers disengage from customer service altogether due to cultural differences. The study suggests that companies must be mindful of these cultural variations when expanding globally.
Professor Diana Chu's NSF-funded research explores how chemical structure of sperm proteins affects DNA packaging and interpretation. Her studies may help understand fertility disorders in humans and other animals, as well as answer broader questions about gene regulation.
Researchers developed a novel rotary actuator that delivers more torque than previous devices, achieving four-fold improvements in loading torque and accuracy. The device uses piezoelectric material and a clamp with a changeable clamping radius to optimize power and control.
A new study developed by Scripps Institution of Oceanography argues that problems lie in seeking answers one factor at a time, as scientists have done for decades. The researchers argue that using novel mathematical methods can help avoid misleading conclusions by considering dynamic linkages between factors.
Researchers found subtle effects of konzo on children's cognitive ability, even without physical symptoms. The study highlights the need for public health education programs to prevent outbreaks and create nontoxic cassava varieties.
A recent study of over 2,300 first-year residents found that the percentage of self-reported medical errors increased after new work-hour restrictions took effect in 2011. The researchers suggest that the reduction in work hours led to a decrease in 'down time' and an increase in communication gaps, contributing to the rise in errors.
A recent study published in BJU International found that despite growing trends towards kidney-preservation treatments, patients with chronic kidney insufficiency are more likely to undergo total nephrectomy. The researchers emphasize the need for further investigation into treatment selection factors.
Researchers found that certain bacteria in the stomach microbiota can prevent pathology from H. pylori infection, while others exacerbate it. The study suggests that targeting specific microbes may lead to a cure for ulcers and gastric cancer.
Young people with Type 1 diabetes who transitioned from pediatric to adult care are 2.5 times more likely to have chronically high blood glucose levels, increasing the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and kidney failure. The estimated median age of patients when this transition occurred was 20.1 years.
A new study found that adolescent girls who were abused or neglected had a teenage childbirth rate of 20.3%, more than double the national average. The study suggests that primary prevention programs targeting sexual activity could help mitigate this risk.
The Third Global Forum on TB Vaccines brings together researchers and stakeholders to review progress and discuss strategies to advance the field. New research suggests that novel vaccines for adolescents and adults could significantly reduce TB cases and deaths in high-burden countries by 2050.
A recent study reveals that 41% of the human genome is covered by longer DNA patents, which could lead to a loss of individual genomic liberty. The study also found that short sequences from patents cover virtually the entire genome, even outside of genes.
Scientists have sequenced and analyzed three lemur populations to guide conservation efforts, revealing significant genetic distance between northern and eastern aye-ayes. The study also compared human and lemur genetic diversity, suggesting the aye-ayes were separated for an extended period by geographic barriers.
Researchers propose a new strategy to optimize power-generation efficiency in fluctuating wind conditions by predicting maximum turbine generation capacity and incorporating various factors. The approach shows promise in improving power-generation efficiency, but further refinement is needed based on local conditions.
Exercises play a vital role in developing and testing emergency plans, improving staff competences, and fostering multi-agency collaboration. Research reveals that effective exercise design and participation can significantly enhance the UK's ability to respond to emergencies.
A new psychology study from the University of Texas at Austin suggests that public officials located out of state from their constituents are more likely to gain approval by framing their arguments around the abstract rather than specific incidents. This prompts people to consider the larger picture, according to researchers.
A Norwegian study found that patients with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) at Parkinson's disease diagnosis have a higher risk of developing early dementia. The study, which included 182 patients with PD, showed that more than 25% of those with MCI developed dementia within three years.
EPFL researchers have developed a method to shrink glass capillary tubes using a scanning electron microscope, resulting in precise control over the tube's diameter. This technique has been patented and shows promise for industrial applications such as ultra-high precision printing and surgery.
A small study found that impaired fertility, rather than fertility treatment, may be key to child's neurological development. Longer time to pregnancy was associated with a 30% increased risk of mild neurodevelopmental problems in children. Further research is needed before couples can be counselled accordingly.
Research by the Zoological Society of London found that over 4,000 years ago, tropical Pacific Islands experienced a catastrophic mass extinction of birds, with around 1,300 species disappearing. The loss was largely due to overhunting and deforestation caused by human arrival.
A new vaccine has proven highly effective against the H5N1 avian influenza virus, when tested in mice and ferrets. The vaccine uses an attenuated version of the H9 virus with an added H5 gene, slowing viral replication and reducing the risk of successful reassortment.
A study by University of Texas at Austin researchers reveals that Texas Longhorns are direct descendants of cattle brought over by Columbus in 1493, with an 85% taurine genome from the Middle East. The breed's genetic diversity is partially responsible for their resilience to harsh climatic conditions.
A team led by MSU assistant professor Michael Wagner confirmed a two-headed bull shark in the Gulf of Mexico. The specimen had two distinct heads, hearts, and stomachs with a single tail, challenging theories about the cause of such deformities.
Researchers from Scripps Research Institute have identified a class of compounds that can modify cell signaling activity, including anti-inflammatory effects, which could lead to innovative treatments for breast cancer. The study focuses on compounds interacting with the estrogen receptor-α, a key target in breast cancer treatment.
Scientists have created a metascreen cloak that can hide objects from microwaves, providing optimal functionality at specific frequencies and bandwidths. The researchers predict the technique's conformability and robustness will enable cloaking of oddly shaped objects.
A new Northwestern University study reveals that infants acquire both nouns and verbs in a more nuanced way than previously thought. The research suggests that the ability to map nouns to objects is robust across languages, but verb mapping is more variable and influenced by linguistic context.
A new model developed at Brigham and Women's Hospital helps clinicians identify high-risk patients for potentially avoidable hospital readmissions. The model uses seven independent factors, including hemoglobin level and length of stay, to predict the risk of readmission.
A new study has identified genetic alterations in the RGS pathway as key factors linked to bladder cancer risk, recurrence, disease progression, and patient survival. The research found that specific variants were associated with increased or decreased risks, providing potential molecular markers for screening and treatment.
New research from Michigan State University finds that publicizing performance data for K-12 schools can lead to decreased parent satisfaction and erosion of trust in the schools. The study suggests that clear and easy-to-understand grading systems are crucial, rather than constantly changing them for policy or political purposes.
A joint US-Canada experiment, CAUSE, successfully demonstrated the ability to exchange information between local, state, and national systems across international borders. First responders could visualize resource deployments using situational awareness tools like Virtual Maine and MASAS, improving response efforts.
A new study by Dr. Christine Milrod and Dr. Martin A. Monto found that only about 14% of men have ever paid for sex, and those who do are not particularly different from the general population. The researchers also discovered that arrested customers are more likely to be married, working full-time, and sexually liberal than non-customers.
Researchers at Yale University have found that AgRP neurons, which regulate appetite, also impact immune cell function. Suppressing these neurons can lead to increased inflammation and vulnerability to autoimmune diseases like multiple sclerosis.
Two studies by Weill Cornell Medicine researchers propose new treatments for beta-thalassemia, HFE-related hemochromatosis, and polycythemia vera. The discovery reveals a crucial role of macrophages in regulating iron production and red blood cell production, offering new avenues for therapy.
A study of over 800,000 painted ceramic and 4,800 obsidian artifacts reveals dramatic changes in social networks over a 250-year period in the late pre-Hispanic Southwest. Researchers found that people maintained surprisingly long-distance relationships despite physical distances, using walking as their only mode of transportation.
Researchers at Rhode Island Hospital have discovered a new strategy to effectively treat and prevent osteoarthritis by adding lubricin protein to joint fluid. This breakthrough finding may reduce the risk of or even prevent OA, which affects 27 million adults in the US.
Researchers at Albert Einstein College of Medicine have discovered a new approach for stopping herpes infections by identifying the molecular key that herpes viruses use to infect cells. The finding could lead to new drugs for treating or suppressing herpes virus infections.