A new study reveals that canine distemper virus (CDV) poses a significant risk to tiger populations, particularly in smaller groups. Modeling shows that CDV infection can increase the 50-year extinction probability of tigers by up to 55.8 percent.
Researchers have found that bats carry the bacterial species Bartonella mayotimonensis, which causes deadly human infections in the USA. Bats are ideal reservoirs for pathogenic viruses and play a vital role in natural ecosystems.
Scientists identify tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFα) as a key player in the emergence of hematopoietic stem cells, a breakthrough that could aid in developing induced pluripotent stem cell replacements for blood disorders. The discovery sheds light on the complexities of HSC genesis and paves the way for further research.
The rate of hospitalization due to hepatitis A virus infection has declined significantly in the US, with a decrease from 0.72 to 0.29 per 100,000 cases between 2002 and 2011. Vaccination of adults with chronic liver disease may help prevent HAV infection and hospitalization.
Research published by the American Educational Research Association found that short-term community college certificate programs have minimal economic returns in most fields of study. Associate degrees and long-term certificates, on the other hand, are associated with significant wage gains and increased employment rates. The study sug...
Scientists have discovered the role of thyroid hormone in the formation of zebrafish stripes and have found that cells responsible for producing orange color can transform into xanthophores through a process called 'transdifferentiation'. This finding could provide clues to regeneration of tissues and organs without stem cells.
A two-year study of urban teens and young adults shows that those with PTSD or drug use are more likely to suffer additional violent injuries, highlighting the need for targeted interventions. The study suggests that addressing substance use and PTSD in the first six months after injury may help prevent recidivism.
The national preterm birth rate fell to 11.4% in 2013, beating the federal Healthy People 2020 goal seven years ahead of schedule. Despite this progress, the US still ranks among high resource countries with one of the highest preterm birth rates.
Researchers used the genetic data to learn about Shigella flexneri's resistance to drugs and its evolution over time. The study provides valuable insights into how the pathogen has changed since World War I and may help develop an effective vaccine for dysentery.
Researchers discovered that lamin-B protein plays a key role in suppressing immune responses in aging fruit flies, leading to chronic inflammation and gut hyperplasia. The findings have implications for understanding age-related immunosenescence in humans.
Researchers found that DNA Methyltransferase 3b enzyme prevents Pax3 gene from turning on, leading to neural tube defects. Dr. Loeken's discovery sheds light on a biochemical pathway and may lead to better stem cell therapy.
Scientists found that cilia play a crucial role in the release and signal transduction of insulin, a hormone that reduces sugar levels. Ciliary dysfunction leads to impaired insulin secretion and increased blood sugar levels, linking it to type 2 diabetes.
A newly created turmeric-based formulation releases curcumin's anti-inflammatory goodness throughout the body, halting acute inflammatory reactions and recruitment of immune cells. The study suggests that this delivery system could be used to prevent certain diseases and combat chronic inflammation.
Researchers at NYSCF found that SCNT-derived cells and IPS cells share similar genetic profiles, suggesting both methods are effective in generating stem cells. The study's findings imply that further investigation is needed to determine the suitability of each method for treating chronic diseases.
Researchers created a cellular model of Parkinson's disease using human stem cells from identical twins with the disease. The study found that dopamine-producing neurons had reduced activity and higher levels of α-synuclein protein, which can be targeted for therapy.
Researchers at the University of Michigan have discovered that a single neuron in C. elegans can regulate both speed and direction of movement, routing information through multiple downstream neural circuits. This fundamental biological mechanism has implications for understanding human brain function.
Researchers at the University of Manchester have found that combining AZD3965 with radiotherapy reduces tumour growth in mice and increases anti-tumour effects. The study suggests a new treatment approach for cancer patients by targeting tumours through metabolism
A study published in the Journal of Animal Science found that wheat can be used as an alternative energy source for beef cattle, with optimal feeding levels determined to be above 50%, and increasing monensin supplementation improving feed efficiency, while proper grain processing is necessary.
Researchers identified a specific bacterial family that is highly heritable and more common in individuals with low body weight. Transplanting this microbe into mice prevented weight gain, suggesting its potential as a treatment for obesity.
Current offset programs in Africa fail to consider cumulative impacts of multiple conservations projects, leading to ineffective species conservation. A national strategy is recommended to integrate offsets with broader conservation efforts and promote genetic health.
Researchers at MIT developed an algorithm that can accurately determine whether a patient is suffering from emphysema or heart failure based on carbon dioxide readings in their breath. The algorithm achieved an area under the curve of 0.98, outperforming traditional diagnostic methods.
A phase II study led by the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine found olaparib produced a 26% overall tumor response rate in patients with advanced cancers associated with BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations. The treatment showed improved survival rates for patients with ovarian, breast, pancreatic, and prostate cancers.
A nearly complete 9,300-year-old frozen bison mummy was recently uncovered in Eastern Siberia. The Yukagir bison mummy has a preserved brain, heart, blood vessels, and digestive system, providing valuable insights into the biology of the species at the end of the Ice Age.
Scientists at SUNY-ESF have successfully created blight-resistant American chestnut trees through genetic engineering, powered by a single gene from wheat. The trees, which can co-exist with the invasive fungus that devastated the species, are being prepared for potential reforestation efforts.
This Special Issue examines the evolution of knowledge on infectious diseases, military psychiatry, and surgical pain since World War I. Research highlights the need for new antimicrobial drugs and improved treatments for post-amputation pain, while also discussing the impact of war on healthcare and public health policy.
Researchers observed the evolution of simple self-reproducing groups of cells from individual cells, revealing a reproductive division of labour. Cheats that initially exploited others' cooperation eventually became seeds for future generations, leading to the emergence of multicellular organisms with improved fitness.
The 2014 AAAS Kavli Science Journalism Awards honored journalists who reported on complex topics like the human microbiome and cancer. Winners included Rob Stein for his series on microbial hitchhikers and George Johnson for his insightful essays on cancer.
The tiger beetle is the fastest creature on Earth, but its speed-related vision issues compromise its ability to catch prey. Researchers have discovered that the beetle opens and closes its mandibles in response to visual cues, such as the perceived size of its target.
Researchers at Harvard University have used CRISPR technology to edit out the CCR5 receptor in human blood stem cells, which could provide a new approach to treating HIV/AIDS. The edited cells showed no unwanted mutations and retained their functionality.
A team of over 100 experts analyzed 144 carefully chosen species and 1,000 insect transcriptomes to reconstruct the insect tree of life. The study reveals that insects originated around 480 million years ago and developed wings 400 million years ago.
Researchers at McLean Hospital have successfully transplanted human stem cell-derived neurons into the brains of mice with epilepsy, reducing seizures in half of the recipients. The treatment showed promise, with improved electrical activity and reversal of seizure symptoms.
Researchers successfully generate neural stem cells that can self-renew and differentiate into neurons, opening the door to transplantation therapies. The breakthrough allows cells to divide repeatedly without ongoing expression of reprogramming factors, making them suitable for therapeutic use.
Researchers analyzed the host range of canine parvovirus (CPV) and found that viruses in domestic dogs and raccoons could infect a wider range of wild carnivores than previously thought. The study identified specific genetic changes associated with host adaptation, suggesting that these mutations can overcome barriers to infection.
Researchers have developed a novel prochlorperazine nasal spray formulation as a potential new treatment for migraines. The product has been found to remain stable for up to 120 days with minimal degradation, demonstrating its effectiveness in treating migraine patients.
A Cornell-led study found that specific gut bacteria are heritable and more common in lean individuals. Transplanting a particular bacterium into mice protected against weight gain, highlighting the potential for tailored probiotics to reduce obesity-related diseases.
Scientists discovered 39 different koala retroviruses passed down from parent to offspring, offering insights into the human viral lineage and koala conservation. The study found that these retroviruses integrated into the host genome less than 50,000 years ago and are linked to health issues in koalas.
Researchers screened over 2,000 plant samples for biological activity, revealing compounds with potential applications for crop improvement and protection. The study presents the results of large-scale screening for insecticidal and fungicidal activity in 1,200 plant samples.
Researchers at EPFL successfully recreated the ghost illusion in the laboratory by altering sensorimotor brain signals. This phenomenon is common to many cultures and can be observed in people with neurological or psychiatric disorders, such as epilepsy.
A 47-year-old woman with intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma received a uniquely personalized treatment based on her genetic profile, achieving significant tumour shrinkage and symptom improvement. The use of next-generation sequencing revealed a rare BRAF mutation, which was targeted by dabrafenib and trametinib therapies.
A study found that an endothelin-A antagonist can enhance renal recovery in patients with renovascular disease. The medication, already used for pulmonary hypertension, promotes kidney function and improves responses after renal angioplasty.
A new study suggests that pterodactyls' inability to take off with wingspans over 12m led to their size limits. The research used computer modeling and found that even the largest pterosaur models could sustain flight using intermittent powered flight, but took-off proved too challenging.
Researchers develop robot that induces feeling of 'ghost' presence in healthy participants by sending mixed-up sensorimotor signals. The phenomenon is linked to damage in frontoparietal cortex and may shed light on schizophrenic hallucinations.
A team of 100 researchers, led by Rutgers biologist Dr. Jessica Ware, has completed a groundbreaking two-year project to map the evolution of insects using molecular data. The study found that insects originated around 480 million years ago, contemporaneous with the earliest terrestrial plants, and developed wings before other animals.
Transplantation of stem-cell-derived dopamine neurons restores motor function in a rat model of Parkinson's disease, suggesting a viable alternative to existing treatments. The therapy demonstrates efficacy and potency similar to fetal neurons, paving the way for human clinical trials.
A new study published by the American Sociological Association finds that schools with limited social choices and prescribed formats lead to less clique formation and segregation. In contrast, larger schools with more freedom and choice tend to foster cliquishness and self-segregation among teens.
A 47 million-year-old horse fossil in Germany preserves the uterus and an unborn foal, revealing that early horses had a similar reproductive system to modern horses. The discovery provides valuable insights into the evolution of equine reproduction.
Researchers at Scripps Translational Science Institute have identified a new genetic cause of epileptic encephalopathy, a severe and complex form of epilepsy. The KCNB1 gene mutation was found in a 10-year-old girl, offering new treatment options for her condition.
A team of researchers at Florida State University has made a groundbreaking discovery in the field of plant genetics, shedding light on how plants regulate their genetic material. The study found that certain regions of DNA are hypersensitive to enzymes, allowing scientists to identify new biochemical signatures and gain a better under...
A 36,000-year-old fossil skeleton's DNA reveals the early divergence of Eurasians once they left Africa and their deep shared ancestry. The study also shows that Neanderthals and early modern humans interbred around 54,000 years ago.
Researchers developed technology allowing biobots to pick up sounds with small microphones and pinpoint their source, helping emergency personnel find survivors. The system also includes an invisible fence technology to keep biobots within a defined area.
A Tel Aviv University study found that medical clowns significantly decrease anxiety and pain levels in children undergoing skin-prick testing. The intervention also reduced parents' anxiety before and after the test.
A USGS study predicts that bird species will breed, feed, and live in the conterminous US differently by 2075. Climate change and human activities like land use and deforestation are expected to drive these shifts.
The study finds that the Earth's ancient oceans held much lower concentrations of sulfate, a key biological nutrient, than previously recognized. This scarcity would have shaped the nature and evolution of early life on Earth, with implications for understanding the planet's early biosphere.
By 2050, cumulative exposure to ozone during the summer is expected to be high enough to damage vegetation globally. Ozone levels will remain below safe limits if greenhouse gas emissions peak in 2040, but may exceed safe limits if emissions continue to rise until 2100.
A new study challenges a long-held belief that offshore islands protect the mainland from tsunamis. Instead, islands focus the energy of the tsunami, increasing flooding on the mainland by up to 70 percent. Researchers used machine learning to analyze various island geometries and found that this setup amplifies tsunami power.
Researchers from Berkeley Lab have developed a new method to create immortal human mammary epithelial cells with normal genomes. This breakthrough could facilitate the examination of cell immortalization as it occurs in cancer development and potentially lead to new therapeutic approaches.
A new experimental drug, obeticholic acid, has improved liver health in people with nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) by reducing inflammation and fat. However, the treatment was associated with increased total cholesterol levels, a potential risk factor for cardiovascular disease.
Researchers found that using grocery byproduct as a supplemental feed source in total mixed rations improves dry matter intake and apparent digestibility, leading to increased animal performance. The study also developed a pricing method for the feed based on its nutrient content and market prices.
Researchers used 3D laser scanning to study the only known complete dodo skeleton, revealing new details on its behavior, size, and evolution. The study provides insights into how the flightless dodo may have evolved its giant size and locomotor mode.
Researchers found evidence of ancient sulfur-dependent life forms in 2.5-billion-year-old rocks from Brazil, suggesting these organisms could have existed in shallow water environments with high sulfate concentrations. This discovery sheds light on the evolution of life on early Earth.