Researchers at the University of Cambridge have discovered that genetic mutations in the KSR2 gene can lead to severe obesity and reduced basal metabolic rate. This finding provides evidence for the role of genes in regulating energy use in the body, adding complexity to the body's mechanisms for regulating weight.
MIT researchers have achieved a significant breakthrough by coupling photons and electrons in a topological insulator material for the first time. This novel approach enables the creation of materials whose electronic properties can be 'tuned' in real-time using precise laser beams.
A Cornell professor outlines a path to achieving a European standard of living for the world's population, driven by growth in renewable energy sources. The proposed solution requires significant energy production, with a focus on nuclear power, to meet the 'Grand Challenge' of global prosperity.
NASA's TRMM satellite tracked Tropical Storm Francisco and found a large rain-free area at its center. Rainfall rates exceeded 130mm per hour in Super-typhoon Lekima's outer eye wall, contrasting with the weakened Francisco.
A multi-disciplinary research team at OU is developing a novel biomass conversion process to obtain a bio-oil compatible with refinery operations. The approach proposes significant improvement over existing commercial and previously proposed technologies.
A recent survey by MTV and the AP-NORC Center found that online bullying has declined across 26 of 27 forms of digital abuse, with a significant drop in sexting incidents. While progress is seen in responses to digital abuse, such as seeking help from parents or family, less progress is observed in digital dating abuse.
A recent study published in PLOS Genetics has shed new light on the genetic causes of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and Tourette syndrome (TS). The research team found that OCD heritability is concentrated in chromosome 15, while TS heritability is spread across multiple chromosomes. The study's findings have significant implicat...
Researchers at UTHealth successfully tested a hands-free ultrasound device combined with clot-busting drug tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) in ischemic stroke patients, showing promising results. The device improved outcomes by 65% and enabled some patients to recover without significant disability.
Researchers used a genomic sequencing approach to evaluate all 24 genes implicated in breast cancer in women with normal BRCA genes. The study found that over 25% of these patients carried cancer-predisposing mutations in genes other than BRCA1 or BRCA2.
Researchers at Berkeley Lab identified thousands of enhancer sequences involved in craniofacial development, which regulate genes to fine-tune facial morphology. The study provides insights into the genetic drivers of normal craniofacial variation and may lead to better diagnostic and therapeutic approaches for birth defects.
A new study found that only 4% of new drugs and vaccines approved between 2000-2011 were for neglected diseases, highlighting a 'fatal imbalance' in R&D efforts. Researchers highlight the need to develop and deliver groundbreaking treatments for poor patients.
A common genetic variant affecting 1 in 3 people increases colorectal cancer risk from red and processed meat consumption. Eating more fruits and veggies may lower risk for some individuals with a specific genetic variation.
Researchers pinpointed the DCHS1 gene as responsible for the most common form of mitral valve prolapse, a condition that leads to heart failure. The gene disrupts heart valve development and growth, causing structural integrity issues in the mitral valve.
Researchers at UCI found that cells from a transplanted limb acquire the molecular 'fingerprint' of their new location, allowing them to transform into cells with the signature of the region they're grafted onto. This ability, called positional plasticity, has implications for regenerative therapies and cancer biology.
New studies suggest that immune response to bee venom and other allergens evolved as a defense mechanism, triggering reactions like sneezing and itching. Researchers found that mice developed resistance to deadly doses of venom after exposure to PLA2, an enzyme in bee venom.
A growing concern is rising algal bloom toxicity due to eutrophication and climate change, impacting aquatic organisms and ecosystem health. Toxic cyanobacteria like Microcystis sp. are becoming more prevalent in nutrient-rich waters, posing a risk to human drinking water safety.
McGill University has made its online game Phylo available globally to connect thousands of scientists with hundreds of thousands of gamer-citizens scientists. Players have already contributed over 4,000 puzzle solutions based on genomic data.
SMEK1 promotes neural stem cell differentiation and suppresses uncontrolled proliferation, while collaborating with Protein Phosphatase 4 to regulate PAR3 activity. This discovery offers new hope for patients with Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and other neurodegenerative diseases.
A preclinical study by Albert Einstein College of Medicine found that the investigational drug Zybrestat significantly reduces tumor size and circulating insulin levels in mice with endocrine pancreatic tumors. The study presents promising results for treating this less common form of pancreatic cancer.
Researchers have identified a novel Parkinson's disease drug target and a compound capable of repairing neurons derived from human stem cells. Using a discovery platform combining yeast cells with human stem cells, scientists found that the compound reversed alpha-synuclein toxicity in yeast cells and partially rescued neurons in anima...
The Gulf of Mexico's dead zone is exacerbated by excessive nutrient runoff from US agricultural practices. Experts recommend adopting cover crops and subsurface drainage systems to reduce nitrogen and phosphorus export. Despite potential challenges, implementing these practices could mitigate the problem.
A recent study by Kaiser Permanente found that individuals with low recorded CD4 cell counts have a higher risk of heart attacks compared to HIV-negative subjects. However, those with high CD4 cell counts had the same risk as the general population.
A new study by London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine and University of York reveals that foreign private patients bring in nearly a quarter of total private income to NHS trusts. Meanwhile, UK residents travel abroad for treatment at an estimated 63,000 times per year.
Researchers found that the grasshopper mouse's sodium channel 1.8 has an amino acid substitution that blocks the activation of channel 1.8 and inhibits the pain response to scorpion venom, making them numb to its sting.
A new class of drug RPL554 has been developed to treat obstructive airway diseases like asthma and COPD. It works by both reversing the narrowing of the airways and reducing inflammation, producing a 17% increase in respiratory function.
Researchers used the Anklebot robot to characterize the normal mechanics of the joint in healthy volunteers, finding that the ankle is strongest when moving up and down and weakest when turning inward. The findings may help clinicians better understand physical limitations caused by strokes and other motor disorders.
Hurricane Raymond caused extreme rainfall amounts of over 560mm/~22 inches in open Pacific waters, with totals exceeding 125mm/~4.9 inches along Mexico's coast. The storm's copious rainfall also dropped abundant precipitation in areas already hit by deadly flooding and landslides.
Scientists identify correlation between genetic variation and microbiome composition, suggesting role of host immunity in bacteria levels across the body. The study highlights the complex interaction between human genetics and the microbiome, with potential implications for disease susceptibility.
A recent study published in Experimental Physiology has found that exercise during pregnancy significantly alters the vascular smooth muscle of offspring into adulthood. This research suggests that maternal exercise may have long-lasting implications for cardiovascular disease susceptibility in children born to exercise-trained mothers.
The Sudden Death in the Young Registry aims to collect comprehensive data on sudden unexpected death in youths up to age 24, with a focus on heart-related conditions and epilepsy. The registry will help researchers define the scope of the problem and set future research priorities.
Researchers have discovered a way to kinetically trap liquids within each other, creating stable systems that can be tailored to specific shapes and flow characteristics. This breakthrough holds promise for applications such as drug delivery, fluidics, and energy storage.
The National Institutes of Health has awarded funding for three projects developing innovative robots that enhance mobility for visually and physically impaired individuals. These co-robots aim to improve treatment for atrial fibrillation by adapting to changing environments and ensuring accurate contact with the heart during procedures.
Researchers have identified a key channel crucial for hearing, contradicting the long-held theory that TMC proteins are the transduction channel. The new findings suggest that the actual channel may be a distinct membrane protein expressed alongside other key molecules.
A study found profound changes in mouse eyes after a 13-day spaceflight, including oxidative stress, DNA damage repair genes, and apoptotic pathways. These changes were partially reversible upon return to Earth.
Researchers developed a simple rule to evaluate co-evolving relationships between species and their interactions with climate change. The study found that conflicting species interactions reduce climate change effects, while non-conflicting interactions amplify them.
A new study found significant differences in polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) concentrations among various smokeless tobacco products. Higher levels were detected in moist snuff and soft pellets, while lower levels were present in snus. The use of fire-cured tobaccos was identified as the primary source of PAHs in these products.
A study published in Journal of Clinical Microbiology found that over one quarter of residents in 26 nursing homes in Orange County, California carry community-associated MRSA. The strains are more easily transmitted and may cause more severe infections than traditional hospital-acquired MRSA.
Tropical Depression Lorenzo is experiencing weakening due to dry air and cooler sea surface temperatures. The system's lack of convection is preventing thunderstorm development, ultimately leading to its dissipation.
Researchers at Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München have solved the structure of RNA polymerase I, a crucial enzyme in cell growth. The study reveals details on how the enzyme regulates protein synthesis and provides potential targets for cancer treatment.
Researchers have developed a computational method that analyzes mouse behavior to categorize psychiatric drugs more efficiently. The algorithm, called Pattern Array, identifies complex behaviors in mice on various drugs and classifies them into six classes, such as antidepressants or antipsychotics.
A recent EORTC trial found that detecting ERG gene deletion at diagnosis of childhood B-cell precursor acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) is beneficial for risk stratification. Patients with the ERG gene deletion had an 8-year event-free survival rate of 86.4% and overall survival of 95.6%.
Researchers found that flooded Yolo Bypass rice fields create productive aquatic food webs for salmon, with high growth rates and minimal mortality. The findings suggest farm managers can use these agricultural fields to mimic natural processes, benefiting both fish and farmers.
Elsevier has added Annals of Medicine and Surgery to its portfolio, publishing original research articles and review pieces for medical trainees. The online-only, open-access journal aims to engage and develop talents of those in medical training.
A recent study identifies a genetic root to childhood obesity, revealing that patients with mutations in the KSR2 gene have an increased appetite and slower metabolism. The findings suggest that drugs like metformin could provide new treatment options for obesity and type-2 diabetes.
Researchers at Oregon State University discovered a genetic link to behavioral problems in children's preschool and child care settings. Children with parents exhibiting high negative emotion and low self-control are more likely to struggle with behavior issues like lack of self-control and anger.
A University of Cologne study found that washing hands after a task increases optimism after failure, but hampers future performance in the same task domain. The subjects who washed their hands were more optimistic initially, but performed similarly to those who didn't wash their hands when faced with the same challenge again.
Researchers at ETH Zurich have developed a novel approach to study thermoelectric materials by simulating the behavior of complex systems using ultra-cold atoms. The 'thermoelectric material emulator' allows for precise comparison between theory and experiments, shedding light on fundamental processes underlying thermoelectricity.
A study suggests that paying living kidney donors $10,000 could increase the number of transplants by 5% or more, resulting in incremental cost savings and improved patient outcomes. This approach could also improve quality and quantity of life for patients with end-stage renal disease.
Researchers show that mice injected with small dose of bee venom developed immunity to lethal dose, surviving three times longer than control mice. Protection depends on IgE signaling and mast cell activation, suggesting a positive evolutionary pressure for this type of defense.
A study by Stanford Woods Institute researchers reveals that Aboriginal hunting practices, using fire to clear land, nearly doubles lizard populations and improves habitat. The approach combines practical knowledge with ecological co-evolution, challenging conservation policies.
Researchers at Carnegie Mellon University are developing robotic rotorcraft for inspecting bridges, tools for minimally invasive surgery, and assistive robots for blind travelers. The National Science Foundation has awarded $7 million to support these projects.
Researchers from Brown University have developed a catalyst using gold nanoparticles that selectively converts CO2 to carbon monoxide, an active molecule for making alternative fuels and commodity chemicals. The team found that particles with an exact size of eight nanometers achieved the best selectivity, converting 90% of CO2 to CO.
The Roundtable Discussion highlights the need for biomanufacturing degree programs combining classroom learning with hands-on research and scale-up experience. Partnerships between colleges and industry are essential to develop innovative educational and training programs, enabling young people to engage the bioeconomy.
A new study found that young black women in Southeastern Michigan have the highest rate of developing lupus and are more likely to experience serious health complications. Lupus prevalence was three times higher among black females compared to white women, with a higher risk of kidney and neurologic complications.
A hands-free ultrasound device combined with a clot-busting drug was safe and effective in treating ischemic stroke patients, with 65% returning home or to rehabilitation. The technology opens up more arteries in the brain, helping stroke patients recover, according to researchers.
Super-typhoon Lekima is shifting its trajectory from northwesterly to northeasterly due to mid-latitude westerly winds and a trough. The storm is expected to weaken as it becomes extra-tropical, with cooler sea surface temperatures and increasing wind shear.
Researchers have developed a new testing strategy that can estimate levels of essential vitamins and minerals without directly testing each nutritional factor. This approach uses protein levels in the bloodstream as proxies for nutrient levels, enabling rapid detection of population-wide deficiencies and potential remediation efforts.
The National Science Foundation has awarded a nearly $408,000 grant to three GW faculty members to develop technologies for tailored cloud computing services. The goal is to provide more choice for cloud consumers by offering flexible plans and optimized security.
A recent Mayo Clinic survey found that uterine fibroids significantly impact the quality of life and workplace performance of women, with African-American women experiencing more severe symptoms and delayed diagnosis. The study highlights the need for better treatment options and increased awareness about this common public health issue.
A new HIV vaccine has demonstrated partial protection against simian-human immunodeficiency virus in rhesus monkeys, with an 87-90% reduction in infection rate. The vaccine uses optimized antigens that mount antibody and cellular immune responses to diverse strains of the virus.
Scientists at VIB and Ghent University identified a new protein, ERF115 transcription factor, which regulates quiescent center cells. This discovery explains why plants can live for hundreds of years while animals typically do not.
Researchers at EMBL have determined the 3D structure of RNA polymerase I, revealing a unique 'Swiss-army knife' strategy that allows it to produce RNA molecules faster than its counterpart, RNA polymerase II. The protein's larger size and efficiency are due to its built-in modules, which prevent the need for external recruitment.
African lions in Uganda have decreased by over 30% in the past decade due to poisoning and human-related conflicts. The species' decline poses a significant threat to the country's tourism industry and ecosystem balance.
A new study published in Cell suggests that the latent reservoir of HIV-infected patients is significantly larger than previously estimated, making it a major barrier to cure. The findings highlight limitations of current treatment strategies and could lead to the development of more effective interventions.
Researchers at Howard Hughes Medical Institute discovered that the pool of inactive HIV viruses in a patient's body is larger than expected, with some retaining the ability to become active even after treatment. This finding suggests that targeting the inactive viruses, known as proviruses, is crucial for achieving a complete cure.
Researchers found that eastern coyotes and coyote × wolf hybrids in central Ontario have killed adult moose, challenging the long-held notion of their inability to tackle such prey. The study also discovered that younger and older adult moose are more vulnerable due to inexperience and deteriorating body condition.
A new study finds that an experimental drug called 3K3A-APC reduces brain damage and eliminates brain hemorrhaging in stroke-afflicted mice and rats. The drug extends the therapeutic window of FDA-approved clot-busting therapy tPA, counteracting its tendency to induce bleeding.
A study by the American Society of Hematology found that bone marrow transplant is linked to diminished sexual health in both men and women. Chronic graft-versus-host disease and total body irradiation are particularly damaging, with men experiencing a decline in libido and dysfunction.
Researchers replicate formation of first silicate dust and find matching oxygen isotopes in stony meteorites, solving long-standing solar system formation puzzle. The discovery suggests a simple physical chemistry principle governed the early solar system.
The study will focus on three leading Philadelphia arts organizations: the Chamber Orchestra of Philadelphia, Opera Philadelphia, and the Pennsylvania Ballet. The research aims to understand how these organizations cope with changing landscapes and explore best practices for other institutions.
A new study found a significant gene-diet interaction between processed meat consumption and genetic variants associated with reduced risk of colorectal cancer. The study suggests that understanding these interactions may lead to targeted prevention strategies for individuals at higher risk.
A systematic review found that early spinal decompression surgery following traumatic spinal cord injury is associated with significantly greater motor and neurological improvement. However, the evidence supporting early spinal surgery lacks robustness due to various sources of bias.
Research finds obesity may significantly increase the risk of C. difficile infection, particularly in those with no prior healthcare exposure. Additionally, patients with inflammatory bowel disease are also at higher risk, highlighting the need for improved clinical surveillance and monitoring.
Researchers at Washington University in St. Louis are developing an early warning system using machine learning algorithms to identify hospitalized patients at risk of deterioration or life-threatening events. The system aims to reduce readmissions and improve patient outcomes by providing real-time alerts to physicians.
Researchers at UC Davis and Stanford University have identified a key step in assembling hydrogen-generating catalysts, which are based on precisely organized clusters of iron and sulfur atoms. This study reveals how bacteria naturally build these catalysts and could pave the way for more efficient production of clean energy.
Researchers found a 60-fold increase in dormant HIV proviruses, potentially making it harder to find a cure. The latent reservoir is thought to contain functional proviruses that can reactivate and resume infection if antiretroviral therapy is stopped or interrupted.
Researchers identified a link between rare RINT1 gene variants and increased risk of early onset breast cancer. The study found that these variants may also predispose individuals to other types of tumors, highlighting the potential for RINT1 to play a broader role in cancer susceptibility.
Physicists at Rice University have deciphered the operating principles of a genetic switch that cancer cells use to decide when to metastasize and invade other parts of the body. The research found a three-way genetic switch that explains previously confusing experimental results, opening new avenues for cancer treatment.
Researchers found that the fungus can survive on various carbon sources and grow in a wide pH range, making it hard to stop its spread. It can also tolerate sulfur compounds and calcium, but struggles to absorb water from dry surfaces.
The OPTIMISTIC study, a healthcare initiative from Indiana University and the Regenstrief Institute, is underway in 19 Central Indiana nursing facilities. The program focuses on improving care coordination, palliative care, and chronic disease management to reduce avoidable hospitalizations.
In a plant cell model system, the katanin enzyme carefully cuts misaligned microtubules at crossovers to form parallel bands. This activity organizes and maintains the cytoskeleton's pattern, essential for its functions in shape and molecular transport.
A new study from the Norwegian Institute of Public Health found that maternal anxiety and depression can lead to increased risk of emotional and disruptive problem behaviors in children as early as 18 months old. The study also highlights the importance of early prevention and intervention, particularly for mothers with high levels of ...
A mindfulness-based professional development program, CARE for Teachers, improves teachers' well-being, efficacy, and classroom environments. The program combines emotion skills instruction, mindful awareness practices, and compassion-building activities to reduce stress and improve social-emotional learning.
Two student-developed mobile apps, FoodFeed and FL•U, have been created to combat health threats. FoodFeed provides alerts on food recalls, illness outbreaks and health code violations, while FL•U allows users to share flu-like symptoms and view localized outbreak maps.
A new study finds that women are more sensitive to mobile phone use during business meetings than men, with significant regional and age differences. The research highlights the importance of understanding social expectations around polite smartphone behavior in the workplace.
A UMass Amherst researcher conducted the largest-ever scientific study on video ad effectiveness, analyzing over 257 million ads and 367 million videos. The study found that viewers who return to a site have higher completion rates for all ad categories, while ads inserted in long-form content are more likely to be watched to completion.
The Endocrine Society publishes a Clinical Practice Guideline for diagnosing and treating polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), a leading cause of infertility in women. The guideline provides clear criteria for diagnosis and treatment recommendations, aiming to address the complexities of this hormone disorder.
Researchers at Princeton University discovered nearly straight paths in quantum control landscapes, allowing for more efficient manipulation of atoms and molecules. This breakthrough could lead to improved measurements and design of quantum systems, including quantum computers.
A mid-level solar flare, classified as an M9.4 event, was observed by NASA's Solar Dynamics Observatory (SDO) on October 23, 2013. This flare had a significant impact on Earth's atmosphere, causing disruptions to radio signals and potentially affecting GPS communications.