Scientists have developed a new technique to convert astronaut urine into fuel and drinking water, reducing the waste burden in space missions. The Urea Bioreactor Electrochemical system efficiently converts urea into ammonia, which is then turned into energy with a fuel cell.
JILA researchers developed a new AFM probe design that improves precision and stability in picoscale force measurements. The shorter, softer probes enable rapid, precise measurements of biomolecules like proteins and DNA, allowing for the study of folding and stretching events.
A recent survey by an international research team found that Liberia's chimpanee population is one of the most viable in West Africa, with over 70% living outside protected areas. The results provide crucial information for site prioritization and conservation efforts.
The Lemelson-MIT Program announced winners of the National Collegiate Student Prize Competition, recognizing inventive undergraduate and graduate students. The competition awarded $50,000 in prizes to students working on technology-based inventions that can improve healthcare and consumer devices.
A panel of international experts will discuss the pros and cons of genetically modified (GM) crops in improving European food security. Recent research shows that consumers are increasingly concerned about GM foods, with 11% checking labels for information on GM content.
Researchers found that rheumatoid arthritis patients have a 1 in 4 chance of developing chronic kidney disease over a 20-year period, compared to the general population's 1-in-5 risk. Patients should work to keep blood pressure under control and avoid medications damaging to the kidneys.
A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials found that relationship-focused training had a small but statistically significant effect on measured health outcomes in patients with conditions such as obesity and diabetes. The study suggests that a good patient-clinician relationship can produce health effects similar to some common t...
Researchers will study amounts and types of aerosols influencing cloud formation in the Amazonia region. The three-year project aims to understand how the Amazon rainforest influences storm formation and internal water cycling.
A majority of Europeans view biomedical research as a source of hope and trust the public to challenge opinion. However, most lack scientific literacy and rely on experts for understanding, highlighting the need for education and communication about research findings.
A new study reveals that reef fish diversified into two distinct groups of fish, with the first group arriving around 70-90 million years ago, during a time when coral reefs were built by mollusks called rudists. By 50 million years ago, modern coral reefs and their inhabitants had largely taken shape.
The Mozambique Channel is identified as a priority for protection due to its high coral richness and sensitive species. The study found that northern reef systems in the channel are better protected from climate change and human pressures.
Researchers from SISSA and Polytechnic University of Turin used a mathematical model to study the effect of migration on biodiversity. They found that higher migration rates can actually increase genetic variability, contradicting previous common assumptions.
Research found that security barriers restrict native species' territory but do not necessarily limit human migration in affected areas. Camera trap data showed increased detection of puma and coati in areas without barriers.
Researchers at UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center found that cancer cells stiffen in response to mechanical force, opening gaps for immune cells to pass through. This discovery sheds new light on cancer development and metastasis, potentially leading to new therapies.
A study of 6,042 patients with COPD found that those who exercised 150 minutes or more per week had a 34% lower risk of readmission within 30 days. Regular physical activity was also associated with improved quality of life and reduced hospitalizations.
High total and saturated fat intake associated with greater risk of ER+PR+ breast cancer and HER2- disease. A high-fat diet increases BC risk, especially receptor-positive disease linked to saturated fat intake.
Researchers at UC San Diego have developed a novel method of encoding multiple environmental inputs into a single time series using frequency multiplexing, inspired by FM radio. This breakthrough enables the creation of genetic circuits that can react with the execution of a sequence of instructions in real-time.
Researchers at Duke University Medical Center found that cancers with a BRAF gene mutation require copper for tumor growth, leading to potential new treatments using copper-reducing drugs. The study provides hope for patients with melanoma and other BRAF-driven cancers.
Scientists reconstructed the skull of Nimbacinus dicksoni and found that it had a high bite force for its size, suggesting it could hunt vertebrate prey exceeding its own body mass. The research suggests that Nimbacinus dicksoni was an opportunistic hunter with potential prey including birds, frogs, and other marsupials.
Researchers found that regular churchgoers, married people, and those with harmonious social ties are most satisfied with their love lives. The study also revealed that education does not impact love life satisfaction but religious involvement does, with believers having positive attitudes towards their relationships.
Researchers challenge traditional views on Neanderthal childhood by finding strong emotional attachments and social relationships within their group. They also discovered children played a key role in symbolic expression and were cared for until sick or injured for extended periods.
The UCLA/RAND community research team won a prestigious award for their 10-year effort to improve depression care in low-income areas. The team's collaborative approach showed that community engagement can provide measurable added value, leading to improved mental and physical health outcomes.
The TOPCAT trial found that spironolactone did not reduce the composite time to death or hospitalization in patients with preserved ejection fraction. However, it significantly reduced hospitalizations for heart failure, providing important insights into its potential efficacy.
UT Southwestern Medical Center received a $3.24 million grant from the National Cancer Institute to bolster its clinical cancer research and provide patients with access to cancer research trials. The center will expand its offerings of experimental cancer treatments, more than doubling adult participation in clinical trials.
A recent study by the Department of Energy's Oak Ridge National Laboratory found that using a rooftop cargo box can decrease fuel economy by up to 9% and driving with all four windows down can lower it by 4-8.5%. The study tested various configurations, including underinflated tires and towing a trailer.
Researchers found that exposure to life-threatening experiences led to increased symptoms of depression, anxiety, and anger among US military civilians in Iraq and Afghanistan. Civilians faced frequent threats, including IEDs and rocket attacks, which took a toll on their mental health.
A study by TGen found that specific growth factor receptors, HGFR/MET and FN14, are elevated in metastatic tumors of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Suppression of these receptors reduces tumor cell invasion. These findings suggest new targets for therapy to prevent or halt the spread of this deadly cancer.
Researchers found that red panda skulls are better at distributing mechanical stress during chewing, while giant panda skulls can withstand greater forces. These differences reflect distinct bamboo feeding preferences, with the giant panda eating harder and larger pieces of bamboo.
The European Association for the Study of the Liver (EASL) has published online recommendations for managing hepatitis C, which reflect the approval of three new direct-acting antivirals. The guidelines provide best practice on key areas, including treatment indications, available drugs, and measures to improve treatment adherence. Wit...
A study published in Neurology found that older adults with rapid memory and thinking skills decline may be less likely to die from cancer. The research followed over 2,600 participants aged 65 and above for nearly 13 years and found a significant difference in cancer mortality rates between those with fast versus slow cognitive decline.
Scientists have identified DOR protein as a plausible target against muscle deterioration in certain diseases. The researchers found that inhibition of DOR would only partially reduce autophagy, maintaining beneficial levels for cells.
Research conducted by Erja Portegijs and colleagues found that physical function and sense of autonomy are independent determinants of life-space mobility in older people. Life-space mobility, which reflects an individual's opportunities to participate in society, is affected by both physical limitations and psychological factors.
Researchers at the University of Illinois have found that indoor rabbits can develop a vitamin D deficiency due to lack of UVB radiation exposure. This deficiency can lead to various health problems, including dental issues and weakened immune systems.
A study used genome sequencing to predict which MRSA isolates were highly toxic, allowing for personalized treatment. Researchers identified over 100 genetic loci associated with toxicity and found that highly toxic isolates shared a common signature, enabling prediction of disease severity.
Researchers studied embryonic development in 134 species, discovering that brain size affects cranial bone formation. Individual bones develop in different phases characteristic to each species.
A new study found that most schools in the US meet the USDA drinking water mandate, but additional measures are needed to promote better access and encourage students to drink more water. The study suggests that collaboration among school staff and educational activities can be effective strategies to promote water consumption.
A new study suggests that oyster aquaculture can remove nearly half of the incoming nutrients from the Potomac River estuary if only 15-20% of its bottom is cultivated. This approach could provide a solution to long-term water quality problems and promote ecosystem balance.
Researchers found an abundance of methanethiol in low-temperature fluids with markers of microbial organic matter, suggesting breakdown of existing subseafloor life produces methanethiol. This contradicts the 'metabolism first' hypothesis and provides evidence that life is widespread below the seafloor.
The pharmaceutical industry is turning its attention to hearing loss, a condition affecting 36 million Americans. Researchers are developing potential therapies targeting the inner ear and central nervous system, with several drug candidates already advancing through clinical testing.
Midwest farmers are willing to adopt environmentally improved farming practices in exchange for payments, which can lead to up to 50% reductions in nitrogen pollution and mitigate greenhouse warming. The study suggests that sustainable agriculture can be economically viable and contribute to ecosystem services.
Tropical Depression Peipah is expected to make landfall in eastern Visayas on April 12. The storm appeared disorganized, with a broad low-level circulation center and weakening deep convection.
A recent study by Syracuse University researchers found that popular smartphone activities can leave devices vulnerable to 'computer worms.' These worms, which can steal personal info and spread to friends' contacts, target HTML5-based apps. The team identified 14 vulnerable apps across Android, iOS, and Blackberry.
New studies at La Brea Tar Pits reveal significant changes in dire wolf and saber-toothed cat skulls over time, driven by climate change. These adaptations allowed the animals to survive as glaciers receded and climate warmed, providing insights into how species respond to climate change.
A study analyzing nearly three decades of data found chromium supplements are ineffective in reducing fasting glucose levels in both diabetic and non-diabetic populations. Despite this, the researchers suggest other dietary supplement ingredients may have positive effects on fasting blood sugar levels.
A recent NIH study found that a rare genetic disorder, CDG-IIb, can confer resistance to severe or recurrent viral infections like HIV and influenza. The researchers discovered that these viruses replicate less efficiently in cells with the disease, creating fewer and less infectious viruses.
A study published in JAMA Surgery found that patients over 65 have a higher risk of complications and longer hospital stays after colorectal cancer surgery compared to younger patients. The study analyzed over 1 million patients with colorectal cancer and found that mortality rates improved across all age groups during the decade studied.
New research by Kelli Canada finds that older adults in mental health courts experience the same substance use and housing instability as younger adults, challenging assumptions about age as a protective factor. This study highlights the need for tailored assessments and effective treatment plans to address the unique needs of older ad...
Researchers at Rice University have developed a synthetic collagen, KOD, that mimics the body's natural collagen to promote natural clotting and heal surgical wounds. Lab tests showed KOD hydrogel traps red blood cells to stop bleeding and binds platelets to form clots, improving upon commercial hemostats.
A study by the World Agroforestry Centre found that collective action improves market access for smallholder farmers of agroforestry products, reducing transaction costs and increasing income. The experience from Cameroon offers an opportunity to implement effective collective action to benefit smallholder producers.
A study analyzing national hospital data found a significant increase in postoperative cardiac surgery deaths at the 30-day mark, suggesting an unintended consequence of prioritizing this measurement. The researchers suggest that emphasizing 30-day survival as a key metric may lead to delayed end-of-life decisions and unnecessary treat...
Scientists at MIT and Harvard have developed a method to couple individual atoms with photons, enabling the creation of quantum switches that can transmit information. This technique allows for the scaling up of quantum computing processing available within small spaces.
A new analysis by ASU scientist Steve Ruff suggests that Lake Gusev on Mars once held a lake, with evidence of low-temperature surface waters introducing carbonates into rocks. The discovery sheds light on the crater's geological history and potential astrobiological significance.
Scientists at the University of Colorado School of Medicine have identified solitary chemosensory cells as potential causes of non-allergic rhinitis. These cells detect irritants and trigger an inflammatory response, leading to symptoms such as a runny nose and difficulty breathing.
Polysaccharides from Angelica sinensis have been shown to protect PC12 neuronal cells from H2O2-induced cytotoxicity, reduce apoptosis and intracellular reactive oxygen species levels, and increase mitochondrial membrane potential. In a rat model of local cerebral ischemia, Angelica sinensis polysaccharides enhanced antioxidant activit...
The Affordable Care Act's expansion could lead to modest cost reductions in automobile and workers' compensation insurance, while medical malpractice coverage might increase. The study's findings highlight the need for businesses and policymakers to understand how their risk profiles may change under the ACA.
Researchers have found a novel electrode made of oxide-derived copper that can efficiently convert carbon monoxide into liquid ethanol. The discovery could provide an eco-friendly alternative to conventional ethanol production, which relies on land- and water-intensive crops like corn.
Researchers have identified a native Patagonian yeast as the source of hybrid lager yeast, used in brewing. The discovery provides insights into industrial fermentation and biodiversity.
A comprehensive study found that 3.2% of children in England moved out of their adoptive home prematurely, citing factors like child abuse, neglect, and domestic violence. Services are urged to develop support for adopted teenagers and improve mental health services for young people.
The new Research Unit will analyze the assembly of thylakoids using a systematic approach to understand the molecular details of the photosynthetic process. Thylakoids are specialized membrane systems found in some bacterial species and plant cells that capture sunlight and convert it into chemical energy.
A targeted violence intervention program was found to reduce violent behavior and increase competencies to deal with violence among middle school students. The program showed a significant decrease in violent behavior and victimization rates, with students reporting 'never' getting beaten up or threatened with a gun.
Research reveals that wood-boring clams serve as 'ecosystem engineers,' making organic matter available to other colonizing animals. Larger logs support more diverse communities, while smaller ones have fewer inhabitants.
University of Montreal scientists discovered how Epstein Barr (EBV) virus takes over gene regulating machinery to replicate itself. The viruses trick the human defense systems by mimicking components, allowing them to survive and cause diseases like infectious mononucleosis and lymphoma.
Researchers at National University of Singapore create molecular electronic devices that can operate at hundreds of terahertz frequencies, ten times faster than current microprocessors. The breakthrough uses quantum plasmonic tunnelling and has potential applications in ultra-fast computers and single molecule detectors.
Fossil leafcutter bee nest cells containing pupae provide insights into the paleoenvironment of the Late Pleistocene. The study suggests a moderately moist environment with a nearby wooded area and stream or river.
Researchers at the University of Iowa have discovered a natural compound in green tomatoes that stimulates muscle growth and protects against muscle wasting. Tomatidine, found in green tomatoes, generates changes in gene expression opposite to those that occur in muscle cells affected by muscle atrophy.
The study found that 660 nm red light promotes the migration of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells, enhancing their contribution to treating hypoxic-ischemic brain damage. After phototherapy and cell transplantation, rats showed a significantly increased active avoidance response rate.
The Feinstein International Center at Tufts University is awarded an $8.5 million contract to support evidence-gathering from agriculture projects in Ethiopia. The project aims to understand the impact of agricultural development on rural communities and inform policy improvements.
Researchers have developed a new method to generate bone tissue using the body's own stem cells, which could replace traditional bone grafting techniques. The process, known as biodegradable polymer scaffolding material and BMP, has been successful in lab experiments and shows promise for future clinical trials.
A study led by Purdue University found that medication therapy management by phone reduced hospitalizations by 86% in low-risk Medicare patients, who were three times less likely to be hospitalized. However, the intervention had no significant impact on higher-risk patients, highlighting the need for tailored strategies.
Tropical Cyclone Ita intensified with a large eye feature and sustained winds of 65 knots/75 mph. Rainfall analysis revealed rain falling at over 99 mm/h within its feeder bands.
A new technique predicts MRSA toxicity from its genome sequence, allowing clinicians to personalize treatment for individual infections. The study identified 125 genetic mutations associated with high or low toxicity, enabling the prediction of severe disease.
Researchers have found metallopolymers that can evade MRSA's defensive enzymes and destroy its protective walls, causing the bacteria to burst. The metallopolymers mostly left red blood cells alone, suggesting minimal side effects.
A study of 40 black boys aged 9 found that those from disadvantaged environments had shorter telomeres, a biomarker for aging, than their advantaged peers. Boys with genetic sensitivities to stress also showed accelerated telomere shortening.
Researchers at UC Irvine's Sue & Bill Gross Stem Cell Research Center found that bone marrow stem cells significantly improved multiple outcome measures in animal studies of stroke. The effects were robust regardless of dosage, timing, or method of administration.
Saint Louis University researcher Jeffrey Scherrer is investigating the link between chronic opioid use and depression risk. He will analyze medical records of 1 million patients, including those with VA and private sector prescriptions, to understand the impact of opioid exposure on mental health.
Researchers at Vienna University of Technology have discovered that tiny step edges on titanium oxide surfaces enable the accumulation of electrons, allowing oxygen atoms to attach more strongly. This finding offers opportunities for creating more efficient solar cells and catalysts.
A large study found that periodontal disorders such as tooth loss and gingivitis are associated with numerous cardiovascular risk factors. Patients with more teeth had lower levels of CVD risk factors, including diabetes and smoking.
A new approach to estimate seabird populations uses sound recordings to monitor colony size. Researchers set up recorders on remote islands in the North Atlantic and developed an algorithm to automatically count seabird calls, resulting in a more accurate population estimate.
Researchers at Scripps Research Institute receive $472,500 grant to study impact of pain medication exposure in womb on developing brain. The two-year study will use rodent models to understand how subtle changes in brain wiring might lead to later changes in behavior.
Researchers attach DNA-coated building blocks to form structures, but simulations predicted defects. They found hydrodynamic effects play a critical role in the structures' formation, making some patterns more likely than others. This discovery improves our understanding of particle assemblies and has implications for various systems.
Scientists have developed a device that can process whole blood and isolate genetic material for two potential biomarkers within minutes. This rapid detection method could help determine the course of proper treatment, potentially saving lives.
Scientists observe quantum critical point in TiSe2, challenging prevailing theory on superconductivity emergence. Domain wall formation connected to superconductivity, not CDW melting, reveals new phase boundary with implications for understanding superconducting behavior.
China is leveraging strategic investments in research and development and cross-border collaboration to establish a stronger domestic innovation system. The country's returnee scientists and engineers are playing a catalytic role in improving its research and development infrastructure.
A rat model of heroin relapse showed improved brain structure and increased neurotrophic factor expression after acupuncture treatment. The study suggests that acupuncture at specific points may protect brain neurons against injury and promote recovery from heroin addiction.
Computer simulations suggest that co-locating crops with solar panels could reduce water usage for solar farms in sunny, arid regions. Agave plants, which thrive at high temperatures and poor soil, are being considered as ideal crops for this approach.
Researchers identified a protein, nicotinamide N-methyltransferase (NNMT), that can be altered to increase energy expenditures. Reducing NNMT levels in fat and liver cells dramatically reduces obesity and diabetes development in mice.
A study found that anglers and canoeists are key pathways for invasive species introduction into UK waterways. The research highlights the importance of 'Check, Clean, Dry' practices to prevent further spread. By following these simple steps, water users can help protect native ecosystems.
UCSB physicist Tarun Grover has provided mathematical evidence for supersymmetry in a topological superconductor. The research, conducted with colleagues Donna Sheng and Ashvin Vishwanath, appears in the journal Science. Supersymmetry describes a unique relationship between particles, with fermions having boson superpartners.
Parasitic butterfly larvae may use acoustic signals to infiltrate ant colonies, according to a study published in PLOS ONE. The larvae's sound patterns were found to be more similar to those of the queen ant than worker ants, suggesting a potential strategy for infiltration and exploitation.
A clinical trial by UC researchers found that consuming chips with olestra reduces serum polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) levels in people exposed to PCBs. Olestra's effect on PCB removal is attributed to solubilizing fat-soluble compounds in the intestine, reducing absorption of these compounds into the body.
Scientists at the University of Bristol have received funding to test a powerful new drug, NLX-101, which selectively targets serotonin receptors in the brain. The goal is to alleviate the distressing breathing abnormality associated with Rett syndrome, a condition affecting 1 in 10,000 female births worldwide.
A worldwide review of studies on animal interventions in healthcare settings for children found a major gap in scientific knowledge. Despite theories emerging since the 1960s, research has been limited, leaving many questions unanswered.
Researchers at the University of Washington have developed an automated approach to aging babies to adults using variable lighting, expressions and poses. The technique works remarkably well, even with unrestrained conditions, and is comparable to manually created renderings.