Scientists discover Nu-complexes, a new type of brain activity detected in human and cat comas beyond the flat EEG line. This finding opens up avenues for understanding learning and memory processes during coma and may lead to more effective treatments.
The National Science Foundation has awarded a $50 million grant to create a national cyberinfrastructure for the biological sciences at the University of Arizona. The iPlant Collaborative will provide computational tools and services for analyzing large datasets, advancing understanding of biology beyond individual research groups.
Researchers at the University of Chicago are developing a new therapy for multiple sclerosis using exosomes containing specific microRNAs that promote myelination. The therapy has shown promising results in improving brain health and may also be useful in slowing the degradation of myelin with normal aging.
A new study by Michigan State University scholars highlights the lack of resources for young gay black men who experience trauma, depression, substance abuse, and high-risk sexual behavior. The study found nearly a third of participants reported experiencing sexual assault at an average age of 10, with many experiencing multiple forms ...
A study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that colonoscopy significantly reduces the risk of developing or dying from colorectal cancer compared to sigmoidoscopy. The comprehensive exam visualizes the entire colon, reducing risk throughout its entirety.
Researchers found that African dust particles more than doubled during a major Saharan dust intrusion in Houston, Texas, raising concerns about health risks for vulnerable populations. The study provides new insights into the impact of Saharan air outbreaks on climate and human health, including potential effects on hurricane activity.
Researchers analyzed Europa's cracks to determine if the moon spun around a tilted axis at some point. The analysis suggests that a small tilt of about one degree occurred in the past, which could explain the orientation of the long cracks. This finding may also affect estimates of Europa's ocean age and heat generation.
A new study reveals dramatic ocean mixing in Drake Passage, crucial for regulating Earth's climate and ocean currents. The research provides detailed information needed to accurately predict long-term climate projections.
NASA's Terra satellite captured an image of Tropical Storm Humberto resembling the letter "A" due to a cloud-free southern quadrant. The storm has maximum sustained winds near 40 mph and is moving north-northwest with possible strengthening in the next 48 hours.
Researchers found that a 3-week radiotherapy course is comparable to the traditional 5-week treatment in terms of tumour control rates. The study also revealed reduced damage to healthy tissue and fewer hospital visits with the shorter treatment schedule.
Researchers created a crystal-like arrangement of ultracold gas molecules that can swap quantum spin properties, potentially simulating or inventing exotic materials. The novel structure was achieved by manipulating the molecules' spins with microwave pulses, creating a 'superposition' of two opposite spins.
Tropical Storm Usagi strengthens with warm sea surface temperatures, moving northwest and passing between Philippines and Taiwan. Forecasters predict Usagi to become a typhoon over the next day.
Scientists at Queen Mary University of London developed a new technique to measure electrical activity in synapses, enabling three-dimensional visualisation of neuronal networks. This breakthrough opens a new window into understanding brain function at the nanometre scale.
New research reveals that Toxoplasma infection can permanently alter brain function in mice, making them fearless of cats. The parasite's effect persists for months even after recovery from flu-like symptoms.
Scientists at Brookhaven National Laboratory have created a high-performing nanocatalyst that transforms impure hydrogen into electricity, addressing challenges of carbon monoxide poisoning. The novel core-shell structure, combining ruthenium and platinum, exhibits perfect atomic ordering and superior performance parameters.
Four new species of 'legless lizards' have been discovered in California, including the silver-bellied A. alexanderae and purple-bellied A. grinnelli, with the first species added to the state's list from one to five. The discoveries highlight the importance of preserving biodiversity and the need for further surveys.
A new study by St. Michael's Hospital finds that milder forms of HIV-associated neurocognitive disorders (HAND) persist despite the decline in severe cases with combination antiretroviral therapy. Effective screening tests for mild HAND are lacking, affecting up to 50-60% of people living with HIV and AIDS.
Shifting employee bonuses from self to others increases job satisfaction and team sales, according to research published in PLOS ONE. When employees spend bonuses on colleagues, teams perform better, leading to increased earnings as a whole.
Researchers identified key function of CYFP1 at synapses, orchestrating two biological processes to regulate brain cell connections. Poorly developed and dysfunctional synapses are linked to conditions like autism, schizophrenia, and intellectual disabilities.
Researchers at UC Santa Barbara develop new algorithm MSP that assembles genomes with extreme efficiency, reducing memory consumption by two-thirds. The new method enables faster and more efficient processing of large genomic datasets, paving the way for smaller, less expensive clusters to assemble large genomes.
A systematic review by CWRU researchers found that parents of chronically ill children experience significant stress due to the added demands of caregiving, including managing medical treatments and school issues. The study suggests that parenting stress can be intervened upon with targeted support and coping strategies.
A study on feathered dinosaurs, including Microraptor, has provided new insight into the evolution of bird flight. The researchers found that high lift coefficient and aerodynamic efficiency are not the only factors determining gliding efficiency.
Chronic Toxoplasma infection causes mice to lose innate fear of cats, which persists even after parasite clearance and inflammation markers are undetectable. The infection alters the brain's mechanisms underlying fear responses, leading to a lasting behavioral change.
Researchers found that all coding and non-coding RNAs originate at the same locations along the human genome. This discovery may help pinpoint genetic origins of complex diseases, which often reside outside coding regions.
Researchers will examine alcohol marketing and its role in early alcohol use among African youth acquiring HIV in Uganda. The project aims to develop communication messages and materials for a counter marketing campaign to reduce the risk of HIV transmission.
A team led by chemist Richard Saykally and theorist David Prendergast has observed contact pairing between guanidinium cations in aqueous solution, governed by water-binding energy. This phenomenon challenges the long-held assumption that like charges repel, suggesting a new understanding of ion interactions in water.
Washington University engineers are studying how stiff or soft brain tissue is using a non-invasive technique. They're creating a model of brain tissue inside a bowl of Jello, which helps them understand how direction affects wave speed and stiffness.
The Cancer Foundation of Northeast Georgia and the South Georgia Medical Center, Pearlman Cancer Center will each receive $8,000 to provide direct support for their organization's work supporting cancer patients. The grants also aim to raise awareness about the financial challenges faced by cancer patients.
A study suggests that shark populations are declining due to commercial fishing, leading to a decrease in herbivorous fish that promote reef health. This has fundamental effects on the structure of food chains and ecosystem resilience.
Researchers developed a new class of imaging agents to visualize tau protein aggregates, a hallmark of Alzheimer's disease. The use of these fluorescent compounds in PET tests provides valuable information on brain regions at risk for tau-induced neuronal death.
Researchers developed an Awareness Information Net (AIN) model to monitor patient behavior and spot problems, enabling timely intervention by carers, experts, and patients. The collaborative approach has the potential to raise awareness of schizophrenia in society, helping others cope with its consequences.
A study published in Evolution & Human Behavior suggests that parents and children's mate preferences conflict due to an evolutionary struggle for resources. This conflict arises when parents distribute resources unevenly among their children, leading them to prioritize a partner who offers less support.
The new guidelines provide standardized guidance and educate staff and volunteers on the principles of infection prevention to reduce the risk of infection for children and families in pediatric residential settings. The guidelines include practices such as standard precautions, health screening, and mandatory vaccination practices.
Mayo Clinic researchers have discovered a genetic mutation that alters lipid metabolism in Parkinson's patients, leading to higher levels of ceramides and glucosylceramides in the blood. This biomarker is associated with severe cognitive impairment and dementia in Parkinson's disease.
The UK's sleep disorder services are severely lacking, with high rates of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) in certain regions going undiagnosed and untreated. Despite the rising demand due to an aging population, many areas have limited access to specialized care, leading to a concerning mismatch between need and supply.
Researchers at Sam Houston State University are investigating new methods to preserve tissue samples and speed up the DNA identification process after mass disasters. The goal is to improve DNA preservation and processing, enabling faster victim identification and closure for families.
Research finds that fine motor control skills continue to develop until adolescence, contradicting previous beliefs. The study uses a new tool to measure fine motor control and demonstrates its applicability in children as old as 16 years.
Researchers at UC Santa Barbara discovered that female common market squid possess two distinct systems for reflecting light: Bragg reflection and Mie scattering. These systems allow the squid to switch between transparent and white colors, with the latter appearing as a result of condensation and dehydration of reflectins-based proteins.
A new study reveals that patients placed in Contact Precautions were twice as likely to report perceived problems with care compared to those without. The common infection control practice was found to create a negative perception of care, affecting patient satisfaction.
A multi-centre clinical trial has shown that decompression surgery is effective in treating cervical spondylotic myelopathy (CSM), a degenerative disease that can lead to paralysis. The study found significant recovery in patients with mild, moderate and severe CSM, with improvements in functional, disability and quality of life measures.
A recent study of hundreds of soil samples from Rhode Island found that surface lead concentrations do not always accurately reflect contamination at depths below the soil surface. The research highlights the need for more comprehensive sampling methods to ensure public safety, particularly in areas with legacy lead-painted water towers.
Researchers found that vitamin B supplements lowered stroke risk in all studies, with some benefit even when taking folic acid. However, the severity of strokes and risk of death from stroke were not affected by supplement use.
A genomic test developed by researchers at Duke University Medical Center shows over 90% accuracy in distinguishing between viral and bacterial infections. The test detects a specific genetic signature expressed by the immune system in response to viruses, providing a potential new method for diagnosing infectious diseases.
A Harvard School of Public Health study found a strong link between surgical readmission rates and hospital quality care. Hospitals with better performance on measures like surgical volume and mortality rates had significantly lower readmission rates.
A new study estimates that over 43 million people are injured annually due to unsafe medical care, resulting in nearly 23 million years of lost healthy life. The study found that premature death is a major driver of healthcare-related DALYs (disability-adjusted life years) lost.
A recent study found that adding avocado to meals may help reduce hunger and improve insulin response in healthy overweight adults. The research suggests potential weight management benefits, offering promising clues for future studies.
Sherri Graves Smith, a cancer survivor and volunteer, will receive the 2013 Survivor Circle Award from ASTRO. She has dedicated her time and energy to helping others in her community, providing financial assistance and support to cancer patients struggling with daily living essentials.
Researchers at the Smithsonian found that e-readers can improve reading speed and comprehension for individuals with dyslexia by displaying short lines of text. This is particularly beneficial for those with visual attention deficits, who struggle to focus on letters within words or words within lines of text.
A collaborative approach to information sharing on violence in Cardiff has saved £7 million in health, societal, and criminal justice costs. The programme uses anonymized data to create crime hotspot maps, targeting prevention activities more precisely.
Recent studies examine sea-level change offshore New Jersey, the geological processes of the Sierra Nevada mountain range, and post-subduction magmatism in northern California. These articles provide new insights into the geological history of these regions and their ongoing tectonic activity.
The University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) has received a $20.3 million grant from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to lead a health research network across 13 universities in the Mountain West. The Clinical Translational Research Infrastructure Network (CTR-IN) aims to improve research capacity and address regional health conce...
Researchers at King's College London have discovered a new gene called MX2 that may prevent HIV from spreading after it enters the body. The study found that expressing the MX2 gene can inhibit HIV replication and replication.
Researchers collected water samples up to six kilometres below the surface of the Southern Ocean, finding that physical transport in the ocean on currents shapes microbial communities. The study shows that communities connected by ocean currents are more similar to each other, regardless of distance.
The National Cancer Institute has awarded a five-year, $11.3 million competitive grant renewal to Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center to lead the Pacific Northwest Prostate Cancer SPORE consortium. The consortium aims to unravel molecular mechanisms and develop precision-medicine approaches for prostate cancer treatment.
A European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer trial found that adjuvant radiotherapy after local excision reduced the incidence of local recurrences by a factor of two, resulting in an overall lower risk of mastectomy. The study highlights the importance of conducting long-term follow-up.
Scientists at Case Western Reserve University have developed a method to create three-dimensional gradients of signals that guide stem cell behavior. The system can help discern recipes for tissue and organ repair and replacements by controlling the spatial presentation of growth factors, physical triggers, and adhesion ligands.
A new trial will test an anti-amyloid treatment in 650 adults at highest genetic risk for late-onset Alzheimer's, using the Alzheimer's Prevention Registry for enrollment. The study aims to prevent clinical onset of Alzheimer's and find effective treatments as soon as possible.
A new study from MIT reveals a gene essential for memory extinction, which could benefit people with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Enhancing the activity of this gene, Tet1, might make it easier to replace fearful memories with more positive associations.
A new study published in Obesity found that physical activity and weight loss conducted together results in improved body composition and reduced cardiovascular disease risk. The study showed that intentional weight loss can have positive health benefits for older adults, particularly when accompanied by physical activity.
A study found that socially dominant red deer individuals have faster heart rates and higher body temperatures during winter, leading to greater body mass loss when food is scarce. In contrast, subordinate individuals are better adapted to survive harsh conditions by reducing their metabolism and conserving energy.
Researchers used a mathematical method to simplify olfactory information into coherent categories, similar to compressing digital audio files. The team identified 10 basic odor qualities, including fragrant, fruity, and pungent smells.
A new study has found that a smartphone app can quickly screen for cognitive dysfunction often found in patients with cirrhosis. The app, called EncephalApp_Stroop, is a valid method for screening minimal hepatic encephalopathy (MHE) and may improve treatment rates in potential patients.
A newly discovered role for a protein family could provide a path to modifying crop traits. The discovery reveals that this protein regulates gene expression in response to light color changes, potentially allowing for new approaches to trait modification in agriculturally significant plant species.
A study by UC Davis MIND Institute found that none of the children with 22q11.2 deletion syndrome met strict diagnostic criteria for autism. Evaluations should be performed to assess autism and guide therapy selection based on symptoms such as language delay.
A new clinical trial has launched, aiming to prevent Alzheimer's disease by giving new drug treatments before dementia symptoms appear. The trial, led by principal investigator Randall Bateman, is testing two innovative treatments and has been made possible through a unique collaboration of private and public resources.
Scientists at UTHealth Medical School developed a brown fat detection method that worked in an animal model, providing a new tool to fight obesity. The peptide probe can be used for whole-body imaging and localization of brown fat tissue.
A MU researcher found that certain types of stories in patient decision-aids can inform patients' decisions without influencing their choices. Process narratives helped women search for information, while experience narratives improved their ability to envision treatment outcomes and evaluate their decisions more favorably.
Researchers have developed a lens that combines the focusing ability of a human eye with the wide-angle view of an insect eye, enabling objects to appear in sharp focus even at varying distances. This technology could lead to improved smartphone camera quality and enhanced depth perception for medical imaging.
A new study will offer young people living in residential care homes or with foster carers the chance to speak out about why they self-harm. The project aims to identify common themes leading to self-harm behavior and highlight successful services supporting looked-after youth in recovery.
Scientists at Brown University have discovered a novel compound that can kill the TB bacterium by inhibiting ClpP, a cellular enzyme not targeted by any antibacterial drugs. The findings could lead to new treatments for tuberculosis and other infections resistant to traditional antibiotics.
A study found nearly 1 in 10 U.S. watersheds are stressed due to high demand for water exceeding natural supply. Climate change is projected to exacerbate this trend, creating challenges for agriculture, electrical suppliers, and municipalities.
A study published in Clinical Chemistry found that SHBG levels are significantly associated with type 2 diabetes risk in women, with age, estrogen therapy, and coffee consumption being key predictors. The research also suggests that adjusting these factors may impact SHBG levels and ultimately diabetes risk.
The Society for Neuroscience announced the winners of its third annual Brain Awareness Video Contest, featuring videos on a little-known brain disorder, memory, and mind reading. The top ten videos will compete for a People's Choice Award and will join over 1,000 resources on BrainFacts.org.
The National Institutes of Health (NIH) is funding new bird flu vaccine studies to protect against a deadly strain that caused severe disease in China last spring. The study aims to fine-tune the process of creating an effective vaccine, with the goal of preventing future pandemics.
Researchers at NYU College of Dentistry have discovered a new way HIV-1 reproduces itself without integrating its genetic material into cell DNA, allowing the virus to persist in vivo and evade antiviral drugs. This finding may lead to the development of new treatments aimed at eliminating the virus from infected individuals.
The Johns Hopkins Berman Institute of Bioethics has been selected to establish a Center of Excellence to study the ethical, legal, and social implications of genomic research in infectious disease. The center will explore public health genomics in two case studies: pandemic influenza and Hepatitis C.
Researchers have developed a novel treatment for gonorrhea that works like a live vaccine, reversing immunosuppression and preventing reinfection. The treatment, administered intravaginally, uses microsphere technology to stimulate an immune response against the bacterium.
A study has found that market bubbles leading to financial crashes may be self-made due to brain processes that help traders predict others' behavior. This research offers insight into the biology of financial decision-making, suggesting that unproductive behaviors can drive cycles of boom and bust.
Researchers measured undersea current of warm water driven by fresh water from the melting glacier. The measurements will be used with physical and computer models to predict future changes in the ice shelf and glacial melt rates.
A two-year experiment at Clemson University found that steers grazing on various forages showed significant differences in growth, carcass quality, and meat taste. Finishing on legumes like alfalfa and cowpea increased carcass quality, while bermuda grass and pearl millet improved healthy fatty acid levels.
Researchers found that 30 minutes of daily exercise is just as beneficial as an hour-long workout in improving energy levels and motivation for a healthy lifestyle. The study suggests that moderate exercise can significantly impact daily practices and overcome cultural barriers to change.
The American College of Cardiology's clinical data registries report a significant increase in radial stenting, reducing complications and recovery times. The study also highlights successes in heart disease care, including improved Door-to-Balloon times and optimal medical therapy prescriptions.
A study in Malawian children found chronic inflammation in blood vessels after recurrent malaria episodes, predisposing future infections and cardiovascular disease. The findings explain high childhood mortality rates in malaria-endemic areas.
Researchers find removing MBD3 protein increases efficiency of stem cell reprogramming from 1% to 100%, allowing for faster production of cells for medical use. This breakthrough provides a deeper understanding of embryonic development and could advance treatment of various diseases.
A new study published in the New England Journal of Medicine reinforces the value of colonoscopy screening for colorectal cancer prevention. Researchers analyzed data from nearly 90,000 people and found that colonoscopy lowered cancer-occurrence rates in both the distal and proximal sections of the colorectum.
Romanian scientists have discovered a novel approach for the optical manipulation of macromolecules and biological cells using green photon beams. This method enables precise control over macrostructures, such as biological proteins, outperforming traditional optical tweezers.
Researchers at the University of Maryland are developing a vaccine to protect adults from the H7N9 influenza virus, which has caused 135 human cases and 44 deaths in China. The study aims to gather critical information on the safety and effectiveness of the vaccine and its ability to induce an immune response.
Scientists at A*STAR's Singapore Immunology Network have discovered a new mechanism involving p53, the famous tumor suppressor, to fight against aggressive cancers. The strategy works by sabotaging cancer cells' ability to hide from the immune system, opening a new avenue for targeted therapy.
Tropical Depression 18W formed in the South China Sea and is forecast to quickly make landfall in central Vietnam on September 19. The depression has sustained winds of near 25 knots and is expected to dissipate within a day after landfall.
A new thermocouple developed by researchers at the University of Cambridge can reduce drift by up to 90% at temperatures above 1300 degrees Celsius, potentially doubling the lifespan of engine components. This could lead to significant cost savings for manufacturers and improved fuel efficiency.
The National Science Foundation has awarded $50 million to Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory and other institutions to create a national cyberinfrastructure for the biological sciences. This grant will enable scientists worldwide to analyze large datasets efficiently, addressing global research priorities.
A study published in PLOS ONE found that e-readers with short lines of text increased reading speed and comprehension among some dyslexic high school students. This suggests that the use of short lines on e-readers may help reduce visual distractions and improve focus for individuals with dyslexia.
A University of Alberta research team found that inhaled corticosteroid use was associated with a 90% increase in risk for repeat pneumonia episodes among elderly patients. The study, published in Clinical Infectious Diseases, suggests health professionals should exercise caution when prescribing the drugs to high-risk patients.
A 22-year study of 88,902 participants found that colonoscopy reduced death from colorectal cancer by up to 40% compared to sigmoidoscopy. The study suggests that colonoscopy is the most effective screening method for preventing colorectal cancer.
A large study found that colonoscopy screening can prevent up to 40% of colorectal cancers, with more frequent intervals recommended for those with a personal history of adenoma or family history of colorectal cancer. The study also suggests that sigmoidoscopy alone is insufficient for reducing the incidence of proximal colon cancer.
The root microbiome plays a vital role in plant functions and ecosystem well-being, influencing genetic structure, health, and interactions with other plants. Microbial organisms associated with plant roots have far-flung global influences, from regulating plant performance to facilitating crop production in harsh climates.
Scientists tap into bug biology to design new materials, such as artificial ligaments and chemical-free pest control methods. The study of caddisfly silk reveals its unique properties, including water resistance and collagen-like behavior. Additionally, researchers use X-ray technology to better understand human muscle mechanics and po...
University of Adelaide researchers have identified a likely molecular pathway that causes neurodegenerative diseases such as Huntington's and Lou Gehrig's. The team found that RNA plays a key role in the development of these diseases, which share similar genetic mutation mechanisms.
UT Southwestern researchers discover that a protein overactivity sabotages cellular recycling, leading to heightened cancer growth and chemotherapy resistance. Autophagy inhibition may worsen chemotherapy outcomes for patients with specific cancer mutations, according to the study published in Cell.
Research finds high levels of Fragile X Mental Retardation Protein (FMRP) in human breast tissue correlate with increased risk and spread of breast cancer. FMRP acts as a master regulator controlling aggressive cancer progression.
A new observational study suggests that bioidentical hormones in transdermal patches may be associated with a lower risk of heart attack, while FDA-approved products may carry a slightly lower risk of stroke compared to synthetic hormones. The findings are inconclusive and require confirmation by randomized trials.
Researchers at NC State have developed a technique for personalized searches that can handle complex queries and scale up to support thousands of concurrent users. The new approach uses ambient query context to determine user intent in real-time, allowing for more accurate results and better handling of ambiguous searches.
Researchers at NIST and Applied Research Associates developed a microfluidic technique to recover DNA from complex mixtures like dirt. This method delivers optimal DNA concentrations for human identification procedures, potentially miniaturized for use outside the laboratory.
Researchers have developed a new temperature-regulated delivery system that can release drugs or fragrances in response to body heat, offering greater control over delivery. The system uses microscopic bottle-like structures with melting corks made of fatty acids, which can be tailored to specific temperatures.
According to a recent study, over 43 million adverse events caused by substandard care occur in hospitals annually. The burden is highest in low and middle-income countries, where blood clots are the most common type of substandard care.
Researchers estimate Earth's habitable lifetime to be between 1.75 and 3.25 billion years, after which temperatures will become too high to support liquid water. This timeline suggests that complex life like humans may only emerge within a fraction of the planet's total habitable time.
A research team identified two genes, IRE1 and XBP1, that control response to proteasome inhibitors, which are commonly used to treat multiple myeloma. The study found that these underlying progenitor cells can survive treatment and lead to disease relapse.
A study by James Cook University found that early publication is a key factor in predicting success in scientific research. Women face disadvantages due to language barriers and family responsibilities, hindering their progress. Publishing early and often helps scientists gain a competitive edge and become superstars in their field.
Researchers have discovered that non-coding genes are regulated by protein-DNA interactions and can be targeted with more effective drugs. Using high-resolution technology, scientists identified 150,000 complexes along non-coding stretches of DNA in leukemia cell lines.