A new brain imaging study identified the neural mechanisms underlying judgment of punishment for harm caused intentionally or unintentionally. The study found that graphic language influences punishment, but only when harm is intentional, while unintentional harm has no effect on punishment level.
A new method has been developed to produce artificial anti-cancer molecules with properties similar to those of the body's natural defense systems. The molecules have proved effective against colon cancer cells in laboratory tests and show promise for further research.
Researchers at Cancer Research UK have found a new use for an old drug, rapamycin, in shrinking and stopping the spread of a specific type of pancreatic cancer tumour. The study suggests that targeting mTOR dependency may be a key to tailoring treatment to individual patients.
Researchers discovered a link between DNA methylation and stress response in the brain, predicting depression and PTSD risk. The study used functional imaging, saliva tests, and blood samples to show that small changes in gene expression can be a stronger predictor than genetic sequence variation.
A team of Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory scientists describe how Dis3l2 uses recognition sites to capture and degrade specific RNAs that are marked for decay. This mechanism helps preserve the character of stem cells and maintain their identity.
Researchers at Harvard University have found that mice can distinguish between specific odors even when surrounded by multiple background smells. The team used fluorescent proteins to create images of how different scents activated neurons in the brain, revealing a neural explanation for how animals separate relevant from irrelevant se...
A new study by Duke University researchers found that small DNA modifications can affect the brain's threat response. The study focused on the serotonin transporter gene and found a strong link between methylation levels and amygdala reactivity, which may contribute to stress-related disorders.
Researchers at Georgia Tech have discovered a way to jailbreak current generation iOS devices running iOS 7.1.2, showcasing the vulnerability of Apple's closed platform to exploitation. The study highlights the importance of patching all publicly disclosed threats to prevent potential attacks.
Researchers at Albert Einstein College of Medicine found that certain bacteria produce metabolites that strengthen the intestinal epithelium's barrier function. These metabolites activate a protein called PXR, which suppresses inflammatory responses and increases junction strength between epithelial cells.
Researchers used big data visualization to study the migration patterns of over 150,000 individuals across two millennia, revealing a pattern of geographical birth sources and death attractors. The study also found that cultural centers and economic centers do not always coincide, and that population size does not necessarily determine...
A NUS study shows that artesunate, a common anti-malarial drug, can effectively control asthma with improved treatment outcomes and lesser side effects. The research reveals artesunate's ability to suppress airway inflammation and produce anti-inflammatory effects similar to those of dexamethasone.
A new study found that electronic reminders, such as text messages, significantly increase patient compliance with a preadmission antiseptic showering regimen. The study showed a 66% reduction in composite mean concentration of chlorhexidine gluconate on the skin surface in patients who did not receive digital communications.
A UC Davis memory researcher has received a $2.6 million fellowship from the U.S. Department of Defense to explore neural oscillations in brain regions involved in forming and retrieving memories. The project aims to develop new methods for assessing memory function, boosting learning, and rehabilitating soldiers with brain injuries.
The 2014 ESC/ESA Guidelines provide recommendations for cardiovascular assessment and management in non-cardiac surgery, aiming to reduce complications. The guidelines cover risk assessment models, biomarkers, anticoagulants, statins, aspirin, and beta-blockers to mitigate cardiac risk in patients undergoing non-cardiac surgery.
Desmond O'Neill, a professor of medical gerontology, will receive the GSA's 2014 Joseph T. Freeman Award for his work on aging and transportation. He is recognized for his extensive research publications and leadership roles in promoting gerontology at regional, national, and international levels.
Scientists at the Joint Quantum Institute have successfully demonstrated on-chip topological light, showcasing a robust and consistent method for photonic signal processing. The breakthrough enables the development of microscale delay lines with low energy loss, opening up new possibilities for quantum information processing.
A study highlights significant knowledge gaps in understanding the environmental impact of hydraulic fracturing, also known as fracking. The researchers found that chemical disclosure statements for wells are often incomplete or inconsistent, making it difficult to assess the effects on natural water systems and drinking supplies.
Researchers have developed a first-of-its-kind molecular test kit that can predict treatment and survival outcomes in kidney cancer patients based on their tumor profile. The assay was able to distinguish patients into groups with different survival and treatment outcomes, allowing for more educated choices in treatment options.
Researchers found that PPARγ activity in pro-opiomelanocortin neurons is crucial for whole-body energy balance and glucose metabolism. Mice lacking PPARγ in these neurons gained less weight and had improved glucose levels when fed a high-fat diet.
Madonna Harrington Meyer, Anja K. Leist, Philipp Hessel, and Mauricio Avendano receive the Richard Kalish Innovative Publication Awards for their groundbreaking work on the complex family dynamics of the 21st century and life-course influences on later-life cognitive function.
Researchers found that prestin, a key hearing gene, has evolved independently to play a critical role in echolocation of bats and dolphins. The protein enables these animals to navigate through murky waters or find food in the dark using high-frequency sound waves.
Researchers found that dietary capsaicin triggers a reaction that reduces the risk of colorectal tumors in mice. Chronic activation of the TRPV1 receptor by capsaicin also initiates a negative feedback on EGFR, dampening its activity and reducing unwanted growth.
A study found that retinoblastoma protein is less active in male brain cells, leading to higher brain tumor rates and poorer survival rates. The researchers believe this discovery could lead to more effective therapies and treatments.
A University of Houston study found that expressive writing can reduce fatigue, intrusive thoughts, and posttraumatic stress in Chinese-speaking breast cancer survivors. The intervention involved writing about emotions and benefits for 20 minutes each week over three weeks.
Tropical Storm Bertha is experiencing heavy rainfall northeast of the center due to strong vertical wind shear. The storm's interaction with upper-level troughs will continue to limit its development and strengthening.
Research reveals that children exposed to incarceration in their household are more likely to experience poor adult health quality, regardless of other forms of childhood adversity. The study analyzed data from over 81,000 adults and found a significant 18% increase in risk.
Jill Suitor, PhD, of Purdue University, is the recipient of the 2014 Distinguished Career Contribution to Gerontology Award. Her research has shed new light on intergenerational relations in the second half of life, leading to major advances in knowledge about status transitions and their effects on family relationships.
A new study finds that human skulls changed in ways indicating a lowering of testosterone levels during the time culture was blossoming. The research team argues that human society advanced when people started being nicer to each other, leading to more cultural exchange and cooperation.
Scientists observed six minutes worth of data from NASA's EUNIS mission, gathering strong evidence for nanoflares as the source of the sun's corona heat. The detection is consistent with only one current theory: constant bursts of impulsive heating provide the mysterious extra heat.
Sean Curran, a USC researcher, has been awarded the GSA's 2014 Nathan Shock New Investigator Award for his contributions to understanding the vital roles of metabolism in aging. His work aims to identify evolutionarily conserved mechanisms that regulate cellular and organism survival and longevity.
Researchers have created a high-resolution molecular map of the choroid, supplying blood and oxygen to the outer retina, revealing patterns of protein abundance that may be critical in vision loss. The map helps explain why certain areas are more susceptible to disease and identifies potential treatment targets.
Anticoagulant-associated intracerebral hemorrhage (AAICH) poses a significant challenge, with a mortality rate as high as 42.3% to 67%. The latest supplement from the Journal of Neurosurgery provides evidence-based guidelines and strategies for managing patients with AAICH.
Researchers at New York University and the University of Cambridge have developed a method to examine supercapacitors' inner workings using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). This technique allows them to locate molecular events responsible for device performance and explore electrolyte concentration gradients.
A recent study led by American scientists found that plastic surgeons believe they are the most skilled at performing aesthetic injections. However, nurses with specialized training in this area may be considered more capable of administering vaccines. The study highlights the importance of training requirements and guidelines for inje...
Tropical Storm Iselle has developed powerful thunderstorms, including one with cloud top temperatures as cold as -63F/-52C, according to NASA's Aqua satellite data. The storm is expected to strengthen over the next couple of days due to favorable environmental conditions.
Scientists at MIT and Saudi Arabia have created a new system to make surfaces active, using external fields like magnetic fields to exert precise control over particle movement. This technology could enable new biomedical or microfluidic devices and self-cleaning solar panels.
Tropical Storm Halong is expected to intensify for three days before weakening, with forecasters predicting a path near Okinawa. The storm's strongest thunderstorms and coldest cloud tops are located on the east side of its center, indicating potential heavy rainfall.
Developmental psychologist Julia Jäkel argues that preterm children do not have an increased risk for dyscalculia. The study, published in The Journal of Pediatrics, suggests that current diagnostic criteria are insufficient to accurately assess mathematics skills in these children.
JNEB has announced the 2014 Best Article and Best Great Educational Material (GEM) awards, recognizing authors who developed a curriculum to promote healthy eating habits and prevent childhood obesity. The winners include Amy Storfer-Isser and Dara Musher-Eizenman for their article on meal planning and preparation.
Researchers at MIT have found a way to control graphene's electrical conductivity using extremely short light pulses. By modulating electron concentration, they can alter graphene's photoconductive properties from semiconductor-like to metallike behavior.
Scientists from Chapman University and several other institutions develop an experiment to track quantum trajectories, comparing them to a recent theory predicting the most likely path. The results show good agreement between theory and experiment, verifying the theory and opening the way for active quantum control techniques.
Three massive volcanic eruptions occurred on Jupiter's moon Io within a two-week period, leading scientists to speculate about their frequency. The eruptions, characterized by 'curtains of fire', suggest that if observed more frequently, many more events might be seen on Io.
The LSU Health Sciences Center New Orleans School of Nursing has received a $1.05 million grant to train healthcare teams in recognizing risks associated with PTSD, depression, and TBI in veterans undergoing surgery. The project aims to improve care for military veterans and diverse populations with behavioral health disorders.
A new material enables sodium-beta batteries to operate at significantly lower temperatures, lasting longer and reducing the risk of accidental fire. The improved design also reduces costs by using less expensive materials.
New research by Steve Israel and colleagues reveals that the Northern Cordillera is a 'collage' of terranes with shared histories, blurring the definition of tectonic terranes. This challenges long-held assumptions about the geologic history of North America.
Shale gas development poses significant ecological threats due to air, water, noise, and light pollution. The study highlights the need for improved data collection and transparency on spills, wastewater disposal, and fracturing fluids.
The article discusses the latest advances in assisted reproduction options for LGBT individuals, including gestational surrogacy and in vitro fertilization. It also explores the economic and legal implications of these options, highlighting the need for greater awareness and understanding among clinicians and policymakers.
Carole B. Lewis is recognized for her extensive work in rehabilitation, education, and advocacy efforts related to the physical rehabilitation of older adults. She has lectured globally on geriatric neurology, orthopedics, and rehabilitation.
A new species of cetacean, the Australian humpback dolphin (Sousa sahulensis), has been officially named by researchers from the Wildlife Conservation Society and Clymene Enterprises. The discovery provides taxonomic clarity to a previously taxonomically confused group of marine mammals.
A new study by Yale researchers found that blocking the effects of PPARgamma in brain cells can prevent weight gain and resistance to high-fat diets. This discovery has key implications for treating type 2 diabetes, where weight gain is a common side effect of medication.
Researchers at Max Planck Institute show that supplying D-lactate or glycolate, two products of the gene DJ-1, can restore mitochondrial activity and prevent neuron degeneration in Parkinson's disease. These substances may also have a general role in protecting cells from decline.
A recent study published in Cancer Research found that women who recently used birth control pills containing high-dose estrogen had an increased risk for breast cancer. The study suggests that this risk may vary by oral contraceptive formulation, and it is essential to consider the established health benefits of oral contraceptive use...
The Reptile Database has recorded over 10,000 known species, making it the most diverse vertebrate group after fish and bird species. The 10,000th species, Cyrtodactylus vilaphongi, is a tiny gecko discovered in Laos.
Researchers identified proteinaceous binding media used in polychrome layers of Qin Shihuang's terracotta army. Natural pigments and binding media were found to be composed of cinnabar, apatite, azurite, and malachite.
Scientists at the Salk Institute have discovered a compound in the Voacanga africana plant that protects cells from altered molecular pathways linked to neurodegenerative diseases. The compound, voacamine, has shown anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects, suggesting potential as a treatment for Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and stroke.
A train of five tropical lows is stretching across the Pacific Ocean, featuring remnants of Tropical Storm Genevieve and newly developed Tropical Storm Iselle. The system includes three other low-pressure areas, with a well-developed Iselle near the end of the train.
Researchers at Sanford Burnham Prebys Institute have discovered a promising technique to restore insulin production in people with Type 1 diabetes. A peptide called caerulein was found to convert existing alpha cells into insulin-producing beta cells, potentially freeing patients from daily insulin doses.
Women with postpartum depression exhibit elevated levels of the enzyme monoamine oxidase A in their brains. The study suggests that reducing MAO-A levels could help prevent the condition, with lifestyle strategies like quitting smoking being key to lowering levels.
A systematic review of over a decade of studies on anticholinergic medications found significant adverse effects on both cognitive and physical functioning in older adults. The review suggests that these medications may negatively impact their ability to feed, dress, and engage in daily activities.
Researchers found that medication treatment for ADHD improved parenting skills in adults, leading to reduced negative child behavior and improved parenting practices. Parents who received lisdexamfetamine showed fewer commands, more responsive interactions, and increased praise compared to those on placebo.