Scientists at UC Santa Barbara have successfully manipulated a quantum bit using laser light, enabling more unified and versatile control than conventional methods. This breakthrough opens up the possibility of exploring new solid-state quantum systems and potentially leading to the creation of more efficient quantum computers.
Researchers have identified a link between HPV detection and improved survival rates in patients with oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OPSCC). A specific pattern of DNA modifications associated with HPV was found to be correlated with better outcomes in OPSCC patients.
Fermi's spacecraft dodged a catastrophic 1.5-ton bullet from the defunct spy satellite Cosmos 1805, avoiding an extremely close encounter. The successful maneuver was executed after NASA's CARA team predicted the potential collision just one week in advance.
Scientists have developed solar-powered nanofilters that can pump in antibiotics to clean contaminated water, removing them twice as efficiently as existing technology. This innovation could also be adapted to remove other pollutants like hormones and heavy metals from water.
Researchers at the University of Illinois have developed a small molecule that breaks up protein-RNA clusters causing muscular dystrophy, offering hope for treatment. The compound targets only the repeating RNA sequence, increasing regulatory activity and breaking up disease-causing clusters.
A survey of over 5,000 US plastic surgeons found that half regularly use social media for professional practice, citing benefits such as marketing and patient education. However, some surgeons also reported negative effects, including criticisms from patients and concerns about maintaining professionalism.
Researchers at UC San Diego have developed a flexible robotic arm inspired by the seahorse's tail, which can be compressed to 50% of its size without permanent damage. The design uses bony plates that slide past each other, providing exceptional flexibility and protection.
Two studies suggest that outdoor recess time can reduce the risk of nearsightedness in children. A Taiwanese study found that mandatory outdoor play reduced nearsightedness rates, while a Danish study showed a correlation between daylight exposure and slower eye growth.
A large-scale genomic analysis identified distinct subtypes of endometrial cancer based on their genomic makeup, which may respond to targeted drugs already being tested in clinical trials. The findings suggest that a significant portion of high-grade endometrioid tumors should be treated more aggressively after surgery.
Cyclone Zane is forecasted to make landfall in northeastern Queensland on May 2, bringing strong winds and tropical storm conditions. The cyclone's maximum sustained winds were near 55 knots (63.2 mph) on May 1, with a brief weakening expected before landfall.
Researchers developed powerful data-sifting algorithms to assemble the most complete genetic profile of acute myeloid leukemia, an aggressive form of blood cancer. The work aims to lead to new AML treatments based on the genetics of each patient's disease.
Research published in PLOS ONE found that self-affirmation exercises can improve problem-solving skills and reduce acute stress. Students who performed a self-affirmation exercise scored higher on a subsequent problem-solving task than those who did not, suggesting that self-affirmation may be a useful buffer against chronic stress.
Researchers developed an implantable device that detects abnormal brain activity and predicts seizures with a high accuracy rate. The technology has the potential to improve management strategies and potentially allow patients to avoid dangerous situations.
Researchers at NIST have successfully transferred ultraprecise time signals through open air with unprecedented precision, equivalent to the world's best atomic clocks. The demonstration uses wireless optical channels and has potential applications in geodesy, satellite navigation, and other fields.
Researchers found that men with prostate cancer who take statin drugs are significantly less likely to die from their cancer. The study, led by Janet L. Stanford, Ph.D., followed over 1,000 Seattle-area prostate cancer patients for almost eight years and found a 5% mortality rate among statin users versus 1% for nonusers.
A gene mutation associated with a rare sleep disorder has been found to contribute to debilitating migraines. The discovery could lead to the development of drugs specifically designed to treat chronic headaches.
A study found that a diet low in grains, beans, and certain vegetables combined with anti-aging supplements improved blood vessel function. Patients consumed a restricted diet and took antioxidants to slow cell aging, potentially reversing high blood pressure, diabetes, and obesity.
Researchers from Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory discover that specialized neurons in the auditory cortex transmit information to the striatum, forming a 'representative democracy' where minority neurons convey 'votes' to make decisions. This finding has implications for neural circuitry and decision-making.
A team at NIST has developed a simple and cost-effective way to separate metallic from semiconducting carbon nanotubes, paving the way for high-purity samples in electronics applications. The method uses liquid extraction with subtle differences in polymer hydrophobicity, yielding high-resolution results.
Researchers found that widened eyes provide a wider visual field, enhancing the ability to locate potential threats. Additionally, wide-eyed expressions send a clearer gaze signal, benefiting observers' ability to pinpoint the same threat.
A new study from the Oregon Health Insurance Experiment shows Medicaid coverage substantially reduced depression and eliminated catastrophic medical expenditures, increasing diabetes diagnosis and medication use among low-income adults. However, it had no detectable effect on physical health outcomes such as hypertension, high choleste...
New scientific studies reveal the negative impact of invasive European buckthorn on Midwestern frog populations and altered mammal distributions. The plant's toxic emodin compound disrupts amphibian development, while its presence attracts carnivores like coyotes and raccoons.
A study published in Optometry and Vision Science found that changing lens type or lens care product can bring relief to about half of patients experiencing discomfort with contact lenses. The study ranked different combinations, with one showing significant improvement in ocular comfort and symptoms.
Scientists at Princeton University have created a fully functional ear that can 'hear' radio frequencies far beyond human capability, merging electronics with tissue through 3D printing. The bionic ear uses a coiled antenna inside a cartilage structure to sense sound and connect to electrodes.
Researchers discover nearly complete skeleton of ancient bird, Eocypselus rowei, which lived 50 million years ago. The fossil's well-preserved feathers reveal key characteristics of the bird's wing shape, providing insights into the evolution of swift and hummingbird flight.
Adult human brain cell production is triggered by early life experiences, with female pups raised by two parents showing enhanced white matter production and improved motor coordination. Male pups raised by dual parents displayed increased grey matter production, improving learning and memory.
Two studies by the University of Pittsburgh researchers found that wood frogs living near agricultural fields are resistant to chlorpyrifos and other insecticides. This increased resistance may be an adaptation to frequent exposure to pesticides, which can harm amphibian populations.
A University of Missouri expert analyzed the pelvis fragments of an early hominid fossil, revealing insights into the evolution of modern great apes. The study suggests that the ape's wider pelvis indicates greater lateral balance and stability, while its distinct finger bones indicate a different evolutionary path than initially thought.
Helbing's research reveals that global networks can amplify vulnerability to disasters, making it difficult to predict and control complex systems. By redesigning these networks with real-time data, we can enhance transparency, adaptive control, and mitigate catastrophic failures.
A study from the University of Iowa found that playing a video game for ten hours can delay declines in cognitive skills by as many as seven years in older people. The game improved mental agility and sped up processing speed, preventing age-related cognitive decline.
Rice University bioengineering professors Rebecca Richards-Kortum and Maria Oden have won the $100,000 Lemelson-MIT Award for Global Innovation. They will donate their prize money to build a new neonatal ward at Queen Elizabeth Central Hospital in Malawi, which has implemented Rice's low-cost health care technologies since 2007.
A study found that training women to self-collect genital samples for HPV testing can increase cervical cancer screening coverage in Kenya. Self-collection showed strong agreement with physician-collected samples, indicating its potential as a viable means to detect cervical lesions.
A recent study reveals that a protein in our cells, responsible for transporting vital substances, also enables bacterial cells to develop resistance to antibiotics. This mechanism is linked to the development of antibiotic resistance and cancer drug resistance, highlighting the need for new therapeutic strategies.
Researchers from Japan created a human Dravet syndrome model using patient-derived induced pluripotent stem cells, revealing the effect of SCN1A mutations on GABAergic neurons. This breakthrough provides an unparalleled insight into the mechanism behind DS and a unique platform for drug development.
A heart-healthy Mediterranean diet helped men at high risk for heart disease reduce their bad cholesterol levels by 9%, regardless of whether they lost weight. This finding suggests that the Mediterranean-style diet may be recommended for effective management of metabolic syndrome and related cardiovascular risks.
A study found fractal patterns in T cell receptor families of stem cell transplant donors and recipients, which may help predict transplant complications. The researchers hope this information will aid in understanding immune system recovery after transplantation.
The American Thoracic Society has released new official guidelines for the diagnosis and management of exercise-induced bronchoconstriction (EIB), a common condition affecting subjects with and without asthma. The guidelines provide practical guidance for clinicians, including treatment recommendations and preventive measures.
The article describes progress in introducing cleaner cook stoves to developing countries, cutting fuel use and air pollution exposure. The new stoves can reduce climate-warming emissions and improve health outcomes for millions of people worldwide.
Researchers solved the structure of the smoothened receptor, finding it has a similar shape to GPCRs despite low genetic similarity. This discovery provides insight into the role of SMO in cancer and embryonic development, potentially leading to new treatments for skin cancer and other diseases.
A new study found that certain compounds in honey, including p-coumaric acid and propolis, can stimulate the expression of detoxification genes and immunity genes in honey bees. This suggests that a diet rich in these substances may help protect against pesticide exposure and other threats.
Researchers studying Nematostella, a simple sea anemone, discovered that cells begin thickening and then thin out as tentacles elongate. This process drives the formation of basic epithelial appendages, revealing fundamental principles in animal body construction.
Researchers have discovered health defects in Gulf killifish embryos exposed to sediments from oiled locations, including heart defects and delayed hatching. The findings may predict longer-term impacts on killifish populations and highlight the potential risks for other species sharing similar habitats.
Researchers have identified nearly all major genetic mutations that drive acute myeloid leukemia (AML), a fast-growing blood cancer. The study paves the way for developing personalized treatment plans based on a patient's genetic profile.
A genetic mutation in the casein kinase I delta gene has been linked to a typical form of migraine, with evidence showing its impact on pain threshold, cortical spreading depression, and astrocyte activity. This discovery offers hope for developing better therapies for migraine sufferers.
Researchers are exploring new methods for detecting transient seismic activity, such as slow slip earthquakes, using GPS network data. The study aims to improve the accuracy of forecasting likely seismic activity by accurately detecting and assessing these low-frequency signals.
A Boston University School of Medicine study found that a mind-body class elective increased self-regulation and self-compassion among medical students, while decreasing perceived stress. The course, which combined mindfulness meditation and yoga, helped students better manage stress and feel more empowered to connect with patients.
Scientists at the University of Maryland School of Medicine discovered a promising new treatment for influenza, Eritoran, which protects mice from death after infection. The findings are crucial in light of the spreading H7N9 flu strain in China, with 17 deaths reported.
The study identifies 12 high-risk invasive aquatic plants and animals that pose a significant threat to UK biodiversity. The 'Dirty Dozen' includes species like the killer shrimp and Asian clam, which may spread rapidly in coastal areas with high population density and transport routes.
A Wake Forest University researcher and four colleagues found that measurements of brain activity in the prefrontal cortex can help assess a person's potential for leadership. Leaders with higher levels of neurological self-complexity demonstrate greater adaptability when facing novel situations.
Researchers have discovered plant transport proteins that can help increase the supply of food and energy for a growing global population. These proteins can improve crop yields in saline and acidic soils, reducing the need for fertilizers and water.
A new study found that adding genomics-based testing to the standard diagnostic workup could lead to a change in recommended treatment for some women. The research identified four novel genomic-based subtypes of endometrial cancer, which suggest that genetic changes can help guide treatment decisions.
Two new papers highlight the risks of dabigatran etexilate (Pradaxa) in cases of closed head injuries, showing a higher mortality rate and increased risk of hemorrhage progression. The studies emphasize the need for effective anticoagulation reversal protocols to improve patient outcomes.
A University of Michigan study found that survival from cardiac arrest is higher when it occurs in the operating room (O.R.) or post-anesthesia care unit (PACU) compared to other hospital locations. The presence of anesthesia providers in these areas may improve outcomes for certain patients.
Genetic analysis reveals potential origins of novel avian influenza A H7N9 virus, suggesting at least four possible evolutionary paths. The virus has evolved into two distinct lineages, with unknown intermediate hosts implicated, highlighting the need for global surveillance and close monitoring of domestic-poultry-to-person transmission.
A Dutch medical protocol used to curb suffering in sick newborns reveals that euthanasia is not an abuse but a humane option for parents. The Groningen Protocol, introduced in 2005, stipulates strict criteria for euthanasia, and its review found that only two cases of infant euthanasia were reported between 2010.
A study by Nationwide Children's Hospital found that 92,885 children under 18 were treated for amusement ride-related injuries from 1990 to 2010. The most common injury types were soft tissue injuries and head/neck region injuries, with nearly one-third occurring on fixed-site rides.