Scientists found that continent nuclei formed as a byproduct of mountain-building processes, stacking up slabs of cold oceanic crust to create thick 'keels' in the mantle. This process supported the overlying crust and enabled continents to form.
A recent study has identified a rare gene mutation linked to age-related macular degeneration (AMD), the leading cause of blindness in Americans over 50. The C3 gene variant contributes to AMD risk by interfering with the complement pathway's normal function.
Researchers used whole genome sequencing to identify unique mutations and a previously undescribed disease gene NEK2 associated with retinitis pigmentosa. The study highlights the importance of rare structural DNA variations in Mendelian diseases.
A survey of young women with breast cancer found many overestimate the benefits of prophylactic mastectomy, despite knowing it has little impact on survival rates. The study suggests that improving risk communication and addressing anxiety are crucial to helping patients make informed decisions.
The American College of Physicians outlines a team-based model of healthcare with 13 principles to encourage effective teamwork and collaboration. Highly-functioning teams assign responsibility based on patient needs, prioritize culture, communication, and mutual respect.
Researchers found that patients with pre-existing dementia who developed delirium while hospitalized had a 25% chance of dying within 30 days. Early detection and treatment of delirium can improve patient functioning and reduce mortality rates.
Wayne State joins other universities in improving STEM teaching methods to support high-talented students and increase graduation rates. The project aims to enhance faculty skills and track student progress to address attrition from STEM majors.
A new study from Boston University's Slone Epidemiology Center found no evidence to support suggestions of increased risks of certain birth defects associated with antihistamine use in pregnancy. The study considered over 20,000 new mothers and commonly-used antihistamines available OTC or by prescription.
Despite Kaesong industrial zone reopening, North Korean scholar Dr. Sang-Yi O-Rauch expects no improvement in human rights due to the regime's control and terror system. The country's brutal oppression of its people is rooted in Kim Jong-un's power struggle, with an estimated 200,000 people detained in camps.
Scientists found that vaccinating cattle against E. coli O157 could reduce human cases of infection by nearly 85%, a significant improvement over previous estimates. The researchers used veterinary, human, and molecular data to estimate the impact of vaccinating cattle and predict that it would have a major public health benefit.
In a Pfizer-sponsored clinical trial, varenicline was found to help smokers with depression quit smoking, with 36% of participants quitting during treatment and 20% remaining abstinent after 40 weeks. The study suggests that varenicline may improve efforts by depressed smokers to quit tobacco use.
Researchers from China Medical University discovered that overexpressing the cytoglobin gene in SH-SY5Y cells enhances their resistance to cobalt chloride-induced hypoxia. This breakthrough finding has significant implications for developing gene therapy treatments for hypoxic-ischemic neurological diseases.
A study published in JAMA Pediatrics found that high school seniors commonly engage in binge drinking, with 20.2% reporting five or more drinks in a row. Young men and white students are more likely to binge drink, while parents' education level is associated with the frequency of drinking.
Researchers have created a new map of bird brains based on a decade-long exploration of gene expression across eight species. The findings suggest that bird brains have commonalities with human brains, including columnar organization and forebrain regions similar to mammals.
UCLA researchers have created a portable smartphone attachment that can detect single viruses, bacteria, and nanoparticles using a cellphone-based imaging platform. The device weighs less than half a pound and can be used for sensitive detection of sub-wavelength objects in field settings.
Researchers found an association between living near pig farms and manure fertilizers with community-acquired MRSA infections. Approximately 11% of cases could be attributed to crop fields fertilized with swine manure.
A recent clinical study found that arginine therapy significantly reduces the need for pain medication and lowers pain scores in children with sickle cell disease. The treatment also shows promise as a potential cure for acute pain episodes, with no safety concerns reported.
Tropical Storm Manuel caused powerful thunderstorms that dropped heavy rainfall in southwestern Mexico. The remnants of the storm continued to bring heavy rains to the region after dissipation on Sept. 16.
Researchers at the University of Warwick have developed a model of the American foulbrood disease outbreak in Jersey, which helps understand how the disease spreads and simulates various control interventions. The study found that just under half of the infection spread was attributed to transmission by beekeepers between their own hives.
Scientists at the University of Copenhagen have identified a specific sugar molecule that aids in the growth of cancer cells. The discovery, published in PNAS, could lead to new ways to diagnose and treat cancer.
A study published in Genome Medicine has identified a specific subtype of pancreatic cancer that expresses high levels of the HER2 gene, which could be treated with existing breast and gastric cancer therapies. The research suggests using personalized medicine strategies to target this subtype, potentially improving patient outcomes.
Researchers found that watching a movie clip of someone safely interacting with a feared object can significantly reduce the fear response and prevent relapse. This type of vicarious social learning may be more effective than direct personal experience in extinguishing phobic fears.
Research suggests that gut microbes play a crucial role in immune function and are linked to various health issues, including autoimmune disease, depression, and obesity. Understanding the microbiome can help personalize therapies to restore balance, and identifying new types of probiotics could mitigate antibiotic misuse.
A study published in Medical Care reports a sharp increase in opioid prescribing for non-cancer pain, while safer alternatives like ibuprofen and acetaminophen have either stayed flat or declined. The study highlights the need for re-evaluation of pain treatment approaches that prioritize non-opioid and non-pharmacologic treatments.
Hospitalizations for endocarditis have declined in recent years, but a disparity in outcomes persists among black patients. The study suggests that a reduction in antibiotic use may be contributing to the decline, and clinicians should consider individual risks and benefits on a case-by-case basis.
Research reveals how genetic mutations in α-actinin-3 affect fast-twitch muscles, leading to increased endurance capacity and enhanced response to training. The study provides insight into the skeletal muscle adaptations advantageous to elite endurance athletes.
Researchers found that soil moisture sensors can help horticultural growers control plant growth, leading to improved water conservation. The study suggests that sensor-controlled irrigation systems can reduce the need for pruning and fertilizer applications, making them a promising solution for commercial growers.
Researchers at the University of Edinburgh have found a link between cold sore susceptibility and a mutated gene, revealing why some people are more prone to the virus that causes them. The study identifies IL28b as the affected gene, which plays a crucial role in mounting an immune response against the herpes simplex virus.
Researchers at Vienna University of Technology have successfully integrated a graphene photodetector with a standard silicon chip, allowing for the conversion of light to electrical signals. This breakthrough enables faster data transmission and reduced energy consumption in computer chips.
A review of 8 trials found no long-term benefits from cognitive enhancers like donepezil and rivastigmine for patients with mild cognitive impairment. These medications were associated with increased nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, and headaches, but no cognitive improvement.
A new study by St. Michael's Hospital researchers found that cognitive enhancers do not improve cognition or function in people with mild cognitive impairment in the long term. Patients on these medications experienced significantly more nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, and headaches, highlighting the potential risks of these drugs.
Scientists have made significant findings on continental subduction, revealing the processes that occur within subduction channels and their impact on collision orogeny. These studies focus on the interaction between the deeply subducted crust and the overlying mantle wedge under ultrahigh pressure conditions.
A healthy diet characterized by vegetables, fruits, berries, whole-grains, poultry, fish and low-fat cheese was associated with a lower prevalence of depressive symptoms. Increased intake of folate from sources like vegetables, fruits, and whole grains was also linked to a decreased risk of depression.
A study published in JAMA Network found that high exposure to swine manure in crop fields and proximity to high-density swine livestock operations increase the risk of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and skin and soft-tissue infections in humans.
A new study finds no improvement in pain treatment with rising opioid prescriptions, despite efforts to increase awareness and alternative treatments. Non-opioid analgesics have plateaued or declined in many cases.
A new study published in the Journal of Neurotrauma found that low-level blast explosions can cause symptoms similar to sports concussions, including neurocognitive deficits and self-reported symptoms. The research, conducted on a group of soldiers called 'breachers', identified biomarkers capable of detecting changes in this population.
A study of over 2,300 US medical students found that 62.1% expected debt above $150,000, with Black students facing the highest burden. The finding may help explain why matriculation among Blacks is declining despite rising Hispanic enrollment.
Researchers at the University of Washington have developed a method to target and eliminate harmful macrophages that dampen the immune response to cancer. By depleting these 'traitor' immune cells, tumor growth is slowed and survival rates are improved in mice with cancer.
Researchers identify phosphoinositide-dependent kinase-1 (PDK1) as a critical regulator in melanoma development and metastasis. Inhibiting the PDK1 enzyme delays tumor growth and almost completely abolishes metastasis, offering new therapeutic opportunities for this life-threatening disease.
A recent MIT study found that high-energy electron activity in space may contribute to failures in geostationary satellites. The research team analyzed data from eight satellites and found that most failures occurred during declining phases of the solar cycle, particularly when Kp index was three or less.
Scientists confirm that impact synthesis of prebiotic material can yield life-building compounds, expanding the inventory of locations where life could potentially originate. The team found that icy bodies with similar compounds to those created by comet impacts may be present in the outer solar system.
A team of researchers led by Weining Man has developed a two-dimensional disordered photonic band gap material that can manipulate the flow and radiation of light. The material breaks away from traditional photonic crystals, allowing for arbitrarily shaped paths to steer light.
Lymphedema is a disease with no cure and little hope for sufferers, where the body fails to circulate lymphatic fluid leading to swelling and permanent tissue remodeling. A new engineering approach may lead to new technologies to test and treat lymphatic disease.
Research suggests that obese individuals' stomachs become desensitized to fullness signals, making it difficult to maintain weight loss. This could explain why many people regain weight after dieting. The study's findings have strong implications for those struggling with obesity and weight management.
Researchers at the University of Montreal identified three risk factors associated with young adult smoking onset: impulsivity, poor school performance, and higher alcohol consumption. This study suggests that targeted prevention campaigns for young adults aged 18-24 could help prevent smoking initiation.
Research suggests oxytocin could improve social cognition and reduce repetitive behaviors in patients with autism spectrum disorders. In schizophrenia, some studies have reported encouraging effects on severity and social cognition.
Falling particle receiver technology uses ceramic particles to capture and store heat at higher temperatures, enabling greater thermal-to-electric efficiency. The system aims to achieve efficiencies of 50% or more, potentially leading to lower energy storage costs.
A recent study estimates that childhood food allergies result in substantial medical costs, including hospitalizations, doctor visits, and special diets. The overall economic burden is approximately $24.8 billion annually, affecting both families and the healthcare system.
Researchers at MIT developed a new model of malaria transmission that combines global forecasts with local rainfall data, predicting minimal increase in disease incidence despite projected temperature and rainfall changes. The study aims to provide more accurate predictions for specific variables relevant to society, such as malaria in...
Researchers discovered abnormalities in both myelin and axons among patients with schizophrenia, suggesting a complex relationship between the two. The findings indicate that strategies targeting both axonal health and myelin synthesis may be needed to restore normal brain functioning in this condition.
A pilot study found that comprehensive lifestyle changes increased telomere length by an average of 10%, while control group telomeres decreased by 3%. The study suggests that such lifestyle changes may significantly reduce the risk of diseases and premature mortality.
Researchers at UC San Diego have developed a revolutionary method to identify and characterize antibiotics, providing a powerful tool to combat antibiotic-resistant bacteria. The new approach enables the rapid prioritization of promising molecules, accelerating the development of new medicines.
Researchers have discovered that thyroid hormone affects blood vessel constriction, leading to sensitivity to temperature extremes. This knowledge may help future treatment of patients with thyroid disorders who experience temperature-related symptoms.
NASA's GOES project captured three tropical cyclones on September 14, including Tropical Storm Manuel, Ingrid, and the remnants of Hurricane Gabrielle. The satellite images showed all four storms in a single image created by NASA, highlighting their locations and movement.
A study of 3044 civil servants found that chronic exposure to high interleukin-6 levels was associated with a lower likelihood of healthy aging, including impaired musculoskeletal functioning and diabetes. Maintaining low interleukin-6 levels may facilitate successful aging by reducing the risk of these age-related diseases.
A pilot study shows that comprehensive lifestyle changes can increase telomere length by up to 10%, potentially reducing the risk of chronic diseases. The study, conducted over five years, involved 35 men with prostate cancer who followed a plant-based diet and engaged in moderate exercise, stress reduction, and social support.
A new study reveals that American doctors are more likely to experience burnout, depression, and lower satisfaction with their quality of life due to long working hours and personal responsibilities. The study found that physicians who work in academic medical centers, are younger, or female are particularly affected.
A University of Missouri study found that high school students who studied from an integrated mathematics program scored significantly higher on standardized tests. The researchers discovered that this approach may challenge traditional views on mathematics education in the US.
Researchers at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital found that patients with donor bone marrow carrying a specific KIR protein variation had improved survival and reduced disease progression after bone marrow transplantation. The study identified a 60% decrease in death risk and 62% reduction in disease progression using this approach.
A new study by Robert Gerszten and colleagues has identified 2-aminoadipic acid as a biomarker for Type 2 diabetes risk. Individuals with elevated levels of this metabolite were found to be at higher risk of developing T2D, with detectable levels present up to 12 years before disease onset.