Researchers develop a novel catalyst to cleave aromatic carbon-carbon bonds in benzene at relatively mild temperatures, offering unprecedented mechanistic details on hydrocracking. This breakthrough could lead to more efficient and selective production of valuable materials from natural resources.
Researchers at the University of Illinois Chicago discovered hyper-connected emotional and cognitive networks in the brains of young adults who had previously experienced depression. These hyper-connectivities were related to rumination, a maladaptive strategy that can lead to depression and relapse.
New research reveals that plants use mechanical stimulation to respond to beneficial fungi and bacteria, enabling mutual exchanges of signals. This mechanism is essential for the symbiotic relationships between plants and mycorrhizal fungi, as well as legumes with rhizobia.
Karina, a former hurricane, was being drawn into Hurricane Marie's circulation in the Eastern Pacific. The National Hurricane Center reported that Karina's maximum sustained winds were near 30 mph on August 27, centered 1,185 miles west-southwest of Mexico.
A three-year study across five low- and middle-income countries found that orphaned children in institutions are as healthy as those in family-based care. The type of residential setting was a poor predictor of child well-being, with country, neighborhood, and community being stronger predictors.
The NIH has issued a final policy on genomic data sharing to promote the acceleration of biomedical research. The policy, which applies to all NIH-funded large-scale human and non-human projects, requires researchers to obtain informed consent from study participants for future use of their de-identified data.
NASA's HS3 mission investigates hurricane formation and intensity change using two unmanned Global Hawks, analyzing data on winds, temperature, pressure, and humidity. The mission aims to examine conditions that favor rapid intensification of tropical cyclones.
A new study from Johns Hopkins Medicine suggests that nearly half of African-Americans may not receive effective doses of the HIV drug maraviroc due to their genetic makeup. Researchers developed a simple genetic test to determine individual dosage needs, which could help improve treatment outcomes.
Scientists discovered that Listeria uses RNA molecules to fine-tune protein production, allowing it to evade the immune system and resist antibiotics. By understanding this mechanism, researchers can develop targeted treatments to combat the life-threatening bacteria.
Scientists Xiangdang Liang and colleagues designed a special conduit for adhesive bonding, improving the repair of sciatic nerves in vitro and in vivo. The new method provides an equivalent repair effect while reducing operation time, making it a feasible and effective technique.
Researchers used functional near infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) to examine brain activation during a working memory task in people with multiple sclerosis (MS) and healthy controls. The study found differences in brain activation patterns between the groups that were dependent on task load.
Scientists alter emotional associations of specific memories by manipulating connections between the hippocampus and amygdala, finding that changing the emotional valence can transform a negative memory into a positive one. The research demonstrates potential for treating depression and anxiety.
The pilot program aims to increase colorectal cancer screening rates and follow-up care for patients served by community health centers. Nine national medical professional societies will join forces with the National Association of Community Health Centers and other organizations to support the effort.
Researchers at the University of Missouri have developed a software program that analyzes event-based tweets and measures context, providing qualitative information about tweets. The program helps Twitter analysts gain better insight into human behavior during trends and events.
Researchers have found that the growth factor neuregulin-1 can restore balance to impaired Schwann cells in genetically modified rats with Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease. This imbalance leads to insufficient myelination and nerve damage, resulting in symptoms such as numbness and weakness.
Researchers found that APOE genotype influences the diagnostic accuracy of CSF biomarkers, particularly beta-amyloid 42 (Aβ42), in diagnosing Alzheimer's disease. In contrast, the APOE gene had no effect on Aβ42 levels in younger individuals.
Researchers discovered the brain circuit that links feelings to memories and found it possible to reverse emotional associations using optogenetics. This finding could lead to new treatments for post-traumatic stress disorder by strengthening positive memory associations.
Researchers found that contaminated blood cultures can serve as diagnostic predictors for more targeted antibiotics. The study showed that highly resistant skin germs could indicate high mortality rates for the actual disease-causing bacteria.
A new study led by the University of Exeter warns that many global crop-producing countries will be overwhelmed by pests within the next 30 years if current trends continue. The research identifies the most invasive pest species, including fungi and nematodes, which are expected to spread rapidly due to climate change.
A Yale-led analysis of genomic data reveals shared molecular toolkits in flies, worms, and humans, with comparable numbers of functioning genes and coordinated gene expression patterns. However, pseudogene regions show stark differences reflecting divergent evolutionary histories.
Researchers from UCL and collaborators aim to determine whether numerous small galaxies or rare quasars produce more ultraviolet light. A forthcoming survey will analyze detailed measurements of a million distant quasars to map the neutral hydrogen gas in the universe, revealing its history.
The BiliCam app uses a smartphone's camera and flash to take a picture of a baby's belly, which is then analyzed by machine-learning algorithms to detect bilirubin levels. This non-invasive tool could replace current screening methods, especially in resource-poor areas where access to medical care is limited.
Researchers tracked spending and utilization in three states and one insurance group, finding that price increases drove growth, not use. The study provides a mechanism for promoting provider accountability on prices through transparency.
Researchers use X-rays and a new apparatus to compare behavior of glass-forming liquids as they approach the glass transition. The results show that bulk properties are linked to microscopic structure, providing insight into the mysterious process of glass formation. This study has potential applications in pharmaceutical industry.
Research at Duke University found that the brain's motor cortex influences the auditory cortex, dampening responses to tones when a mouse moves. The study used optogenetics to activate specific neurons and showed that movement stimulates inhibitory neurons, suppressing the response in the auditory cortex.
Scientists at DTU Physics successfully captured protein quakes that dissipate solar energy throughout entire protein molecules, validating a long-standing hypothesis. This breakthrough has implications for harnessing solar energy in solar cells and other light-absorption systems.
Researchers studied century-old museum specimens to understand how climate change will impact a common tree pest. They found that scale insect populations increased in warmer urban areas and are also rising in rural forests, suggesting cities may be a preview of what to expect elsewhere.
A new treatment, anti-LINGO-1, has been found to be safe and tolerable in phase I clinical trials for multiple sclerosis. The treatment blocks a protein that prevents myelination, potentially repairing damaged nerves.
Researchers at Virginia Commonwealth University Massey Cancer Center have developed a novel cancer therapy that leverages the autophagy defense mechanism to induce cell death in multiple myeloma cells. By targeting the p62 protein, the therapy disrupts autophagy and triggers apoptosis, resulting in increased effectiveness compared to t...
A study published in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine suggests that a one cent per ounce excise tax on sugar-sweetened beverages, combined with physical activity programs and an advertising ban, could effectively reduce childhood obesity. The tax is expected to generate significant revenue for additional obesity prevention a...
A diet of junk food reduces rats' preference for novel foods and leads to overeating and obesity. Researchers found that the brain's reward circuitry is affected by excessive consumption of junk food.
Three analyses compare how human, worm, and fruit fly genomes are read out and organized into chromosomes, adding billions of entries to a publicly available archive. Scientists discovered common features that apply to all organisms, offering insights into human development and disease.
An experimental drug has demonstrated potential as a first treatment for anemia of inflammation, regulating blood's iron supply and maintaining its transport. The treatment, lexaptepid pegol, inactivates hepcidin hormone production, improving iron levels without interfering with the immune response.
Parents who engage with their infant's babbling can accelerate their child's vocalizing and language learning, according to a new University of Iowa study. Infants whose mothers responded to their babbling showed an increase in developmentally advanced vocalizations and began directing more of their babbling towards their mothers.
A CU Denver study reveals that vaccine refusal is more common among children from higher-income families with educated mothers. These parents often rely on alternative practices like breastfeeding and social monitoring to prevent disease, rather than vaccinations. In contrast, lower-income families face barriers to accessing healthcare...
Researchers discovered a peptide mimicking high-density lipoprotein (HDL) protein helps reduce oxidized lipids in pulmonary hypertension, improving heart and lung function. The study also found elevated levels of oxidized proteins in rodents with the disease, which can be targeted for treatment development.
Researchers used a 'big data' approach to rank top 100 pathogens affecting humans and animals, with E.coli and HIV taking top spots. The Hirsch Index method aggregates scientific work on diseases to guide policy at a continent-wide level.
Researchers at Stanford University School of Medicine have mapped the binding sites and cellular expression patterns of regulatory factors in fruit flies, roundworms, and humans. The study identifies shared and distinct patterns across species, shedding light on how genes are turned on and off.
A recent study found that vasopressin alone or in combination with epinephrine suppresses neuronal apoptosis and activates anti-apoptotic pathways during cardiopulmonary resuscitation. This suggests a potential benefit of vasopressin for improving CPR outcomes.
An Indiana University study found that parents' coaching styles based on their social class can impact a child's willingness to seek help in the classroom. Middle-class parents tend to encourage seeking help from teachers, while working-class parents teach their children to work out problems independently.
A new study by Baylor University researchers identifies the challenges facing women in the IT profession as being rooted in occupational culture and informal interoffice social networks. The findings suggest that mentoring, social interaction, and career-stage awareness are key areas for improvement to increase diversity.
Scientists and policymakers debate ways to curb sugar consumption amid growing health concerns. Despite reduced sugar intake over the past 15 years, Americans still consume excessive amounts, leading to high blood pressure, heart disease, and other conditions.
Scientists at Oak Ridge National Laboratory have created a more efficient anode for lithium-ion batteries using recycled tire-derived carbon black, with improved capacity and stability. The novel method could lead to cheaper, environmentally friendly batteries for various applications.
The study reveals that the hippocampus can freely associate with either positive or negative emotions, while the amygdala is hard-wired for specific experiences. This flexibility may help explain the success of behavioral therapy for phobias and PTSD, and suggests novel treatments for depression and other disorders.
Researchers emphasize the need for cultural competence in brain injury research and rehabilitation to address growing minority populations and their higher risk of poorer outcomes. Studies highlight persistent health disparities among minorities with acquired brain injury, underscoring the importance of patient-centered interventions.
Researchers found that stone-tipped spears created larger and wider wound cavities than sharpened wooden spears, despite not penetrating deeper into gelatin. This could indicate a greater 'killing power' for tipped spears.
Researchers from the University of Pennsylvania have made a groundbreaking discovery in northeastern China, uncovering a possible dinosaur nest with 24 young Psittacosaurus lujiatunensis and one older individual. The fossilized group suggests post-hatchling cooperation among dinosaurs, where a 'babysitter' cared for its younger siblings.
A novel molecular system resembling a butterfly has been discovered, capable of measuring temperature, emitting white light, and converting photon energy to mechanical motions. The molecule's unique properties make it suitable for developing non-invasive thermometers and molecular machines that can harness sunlight.
A University of Georgia study found that Japanese stiltgrass creates a habitat for wolf spiders, which then feed on American toads. The study reveals that the invasive grass reduces toad survival by increasing spider densities.
Researchers used brain-computer interfaces and machine learning to study neural patterns in monkey brains as they learned to move a computer cursor. The study found that learning was easier when nerve cells rearranged existing patterns of activity, rather than generating new ones.
For the first time, physicists have directly detected neutrinos created by the 'keystone' proton-proton fusion process at the sun's core. The detection was made possible by the Borexino instrument, which detects neutrinos as they interact with an ultra-pure organic liquid scintillator.
Research found that younger, better-educated individuals with poorer health are more likely to seek online anecdotal advice. Experts caution against using untrustworthy online sources and urge consumers to develop skills for accessing reliable health information.
Researchers at Rice University and the University of Nevada have found that cooling of the Pacific plate causes horizontal contraction and deformation. The rate of contraction is faster in younger parts of the plate, leading to a predicted 10 times faster contraction than older parts.
Wally Broeker advocates for carbon capture technology to reduce global warming by capturing atmospheric CO2 and storing it underground. He argues that this approach is crucial to mitigating the effects of human activity on the environment.
Researchers at McGill University studied a living fish, Polypterus, to understand the evolution of tetrapods. The fish showed significant anatomical changes, including modified fins and increased support during walking.
The Center for Leadership in Disability at Georgia State University has received a $600,000 grant from the Maternal and Child Health Bureau to implement the Autism Plan for Georgia. The plan aims to increase awareness, access, and coordination of services for children and youth with autism spectrum disorder across the lifespan.
Researchers develop a potential therapy for Sudan ebolavirus, showing promising results in laboratory tests and mouse models. The humanized antibody has been identified as an immunotherapeutic candidate to treat SUDV infection.
Researchers found powerful commonalities in biological activity and regulation among species, reflecting their shared ancestry. The studies revealed similarities in gene expression patterns, DNA packaging, and chromatin organization across human, fly, and worm genomes.
A new analysis reveals that cardiac clinic trial participants do not accurately represent the broader patient population. The study suggests using broader enrollment criteria and existing patient registries to improve clinical trial participation and generalizability.
Scientists have found abundant nanodiamonds distributed across three continents, providing conclusive evidence of a 13,000-year-old cosmic impact. The discovery supports a hypothesis linking the impact to the mass extinction of megafauna in North America.
Researchers developed a genomic-based system, IntClust, to classify breast cancer subtypes with high accuracy. The new system identified previously unnoticed subgroups of tumors, including those resistant to treatment, potentially leading to early detection and targeted therapies.
A Bronze Age wine cellar was uncovered at an ancient Canaanite palace in modern-day Israel, showcasing wine residue from over 40 jars. The jars contained chemical compounds indicative of wine, as well as subtle differences in ingredients or additives such as honey and cedar oil.
A University of Illinois researcher recommends online co-parenting classes be tailored to individual family needs, addressing emotional support and conflict resolution. The course should also cover less discussed topics like introducing a new partner to children and sex education, and provide resources for parents with limited vocabulary.
Researchers recommend using fluorochemicals only where absolutely essential, citing links to cancer, immune system damage, reproductive issues, and environmental contamination. They urge producers to test alternatives properly before market release.
A meta-analysis of four studies found that photodynamic therapy (PDT) is more effective than cryotherapy in clearing actinic keratoses (AKs), a common skin lesion caused by sun damage. At three months after treatment, patients treated with PDT had a 14% better chance of complete lesion clearance compared to those who received cryotherapy.
Researchers confirm lithium-6 production in Big Bang energy range, contradicting observed lithium concentrations in stars. The study resolves the 'lithium problem,' a stubborn issue in astrophysics.
The serotonin transporter is a crucial pharmacological target of antidepressants, and mifepristone has been shown to inhibit its activity. The study demonstrates that mifepristone directly inhibits the serotonin transporter, suggesting its potential as a treatment for psychotic depression.
A study of 188 African American females found that gang involvement is associated with high-risk behaviors such as casual sex partners, substance abuse, and HIV testing. Low self-esteem, emotional problems, and housing instability are also linked to a higher likelihood of gang involvement.
A large international study found that low-income countries with lower risk factors for cardiovascular problems have higher rates of cardiovascular events and death. The quality of healthcare is crucial in reducing heart disease rates, according to the study.
Researchers from the Bavarian Health and Food Safety Authority and Wuerzburg University devised a new way to authenticate organic produce. Their report uses nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy to differentiate between conventional and organic tomatoes.
A study by Newcastle University and the University of Exeter found that self-deceived individuals are viewed as more talented by their colleagues and are more likely to get promotions. This can lead to overestimation of others' abilities, increased risk-taking, and potentially disastrous consequences for organizations.
Astronomers have discovered a compact galactic core, nicknamed Sparky, which is seen as it appeared 11 billion years ago. The infant galaxy contains twice as much mass as the Milky Way and is producing 300 stars per year, a rate three times faster than our galaxy.
A study of 1,806 men with prostate cancer found that those consuming high amounts of tomatoes and lycopene had an 18% lower risk of developing the disease. Men are advised to eat a wide variety of fruits and vegetables, maintain a healthy weight, and stay active to reduce their risk.
Researchers at Duke University have identified a gene, called OSCA1, that helps plants sense water availability and adjust their water conservation machinery accordingly. The findings could lead to new ways to help crops thrive when water is scarce.
The study developed a novel approach for evaluating the relevance of interactions using a Bayesian hierarchal mixture framework. The model successfully identified significant interactions in cutaneous melanoma and lung cancer risk by controlling false positive discovery and estimating parameters.
A new MIT study suggests that extreme snow events will still occur even in a future with significant warming. In some regions, such as the Northern Hemisphere, average snowfall may decrease, but snowfall extremes intensify.
Researchers identified the neurofibromatosis type 1 (Nf1) gene as a key regulator of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a neurotransmitter that lowers anxiety and increases feelings of relaxation. Variations in the human Nf1 gene are linked to alcohol-dependence risk and severity, suggesting a potential genetic basis for excessive drinking.
A new integrated treatment programme is more effective at reducing depression and improving quality of life than current care for depressed cancer patients. The programme, called 'Depression Care for People with Cancer', includes both antidepressants and psychological therapy.
As of August 27, the Happy Camp Complex and July Fire Complexes have consumed over 60,000 acres of land in Northern California. The fire season has been exacerbated by hot and dry conditions, with multiple fires still spreading.
The Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center has been awarded an $18 million grant to continue its groundbreaking research and provide high-quality patient care. The center, led by Dr. Stephen Emerson, is recognized as one of the top cancer centers in New York City and the country.
A new study published in Psychological Science found that individuals and institutions tend to highlight their marginal membership in high-status groups, leading to a boost in self-image and projecting an impressive image to others. This phenomenon was observed in universities, airports, and even socioeconomic group membership.
Case Western Reserve University astronomers will study the outskirts of spiral galaxy M101 using Hubble Space Telescope data. The research aims to determine how galaxies form over time, with findings that could challenge current understanding of galaxy formation.
Researchers found that giving a prescription to stroke patients before discharge increases short- and long-term stroke prevention by 70% and 40% respectively. The study suggests simple interventions like handing over prescriptions can improve patient care.
The EuropeanPioneers programme supports 25 startups and SMEs in EU with 4.5 million Euros, targeting Smart City Services, Social Connected TV, Pervasive Gaming, and E-Learning.
A team of scientists has discovered a compound named triptolide, isolated from the thunder god vine, which is far more potent than current therapies against hepatocellular carcinoma. The researchers used nanotechnology to improve delivery and reduce toxicity, showing increased efficacy in tumor accumulation and uptake into cancer cells.
Researchers at Stanford University School of Medicine have discovered a non-addictive and safe-for-the-heart compound called Alda-1 that reduces inflammatory pain. The compound was found while searching for the reason behind moderate drinkers' less-severe heart attacks.
Researchers found that wolves experience yawn contagion, with stronger social bonds increasing frequency, and females reacting faster than males to close associates' yawns. The results suggest a common ancestral trait of contagious yawning among mammals, revealing an emotional connection between individuals.
A study led by Judith Burkart reveals that human altruism is linked to cooperative breeding among primate species, where young are cared for by multiple group members. This behavior, not associated with advanced cognitive skills or social tolerance, may have contributed to human exceptional cognition.
Astronomers have observed the earliest stages of massive galaxy construction, dubbed 'Sparky', which contains about twice as many stars as our Milky Way. The discovery was made possible through combined observations from NASA's Hubble and Spitzer space telescopes.
Researchers at McLean Hospital found that xenon gas can reduce memories of traumatic events, potentially treating post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other memory-related disorders. The study used an animal model to demonstrate the effectiveness of xenon in blocking fear responses for up to two weeks.
Researchers at Florida State University analyzed an ancient Martian meteorite to determine the Red Planet's climate history. The team found evidence of a dramatic climate shift dating back 4.4 billion years, suggesting Mars has been cold and dry for at least 1.7 billion years.
South Africa is experiencing its 'Cape Fire Season' with high veld fire danger ratings expected in the north-western interior and along the coast. Prolonged drought and warm, dry winds are fueling the fires, which also pose a risk to farmland and yearly food production.
Hurricane Marie, over 400 miles in diameter, brings rough surf to southern California's coastline. The storm is expected to weaken and become a post-tropical cyclone as it moves northwest.
Researchers using the Green Bank Telescope have found pebble-size particles near the Orion Nebula, a potential new class of interstellar particles that could aid planet formation. These dense ribbons of rocky material may represent a mid-size class of particles, with sizes up to a centimeter across.
Researchers found that brain activity patterns can be combined in new ways to learn a skill more easily, but there are limits to cognitive flexibility. This discovery could lead to improved treatments for stroke and other brain injuries.
Heavy rainfall and intense convective storms were detected by NASA's TRMM satellite in Hurricane Cristobal, with some storms reaching heights of over 9.3 miles and generating heavy rain. The storm is expected to become a powerful extra-tropical cyclone over the North Atlantic by Friday.
A recent study has identified key sets of co-expressed genes essential for animal cells, regardless of species. The researchers used RNA-seq data from multiple tissues and developmental conditions to create a map of highly important genome regions.
Researchers at Arizona State University discovered that stone-tipped spears create wider wound cavities compared to wooden spears, leading to more debilitating tissue damage. The study suggests that the manufacture of stone-tipped spears may have driven early human cognitive and social development.
Derelict fishing traps are a significant problem in US waters, catching fish and other species beyond their target. Researchers recommend a collaborative approach to manage and prevent gear loss, involving the fishing industry and examining regional challenges.
Scientists found that brain activity patterns are shaped by neural connectivity and have limitations on how adaptable they are during learning. The study used a brain-computer interface to train animals and showed that subjects learned easier-to-learn patterns more readily, while harder-to-learn patterns were entirely new.
A new study published in ACS Chemical Neuroscience throws doubt on the notion that serotonin deficiency is key to depression. Despite being 'depressed' due to a lack of serotonin production, mice lacked this ability showed no signs of depression-like symptoms.
Researchers distinguish pure imagination from related processes like remembering using MRI experiments, finding distinctive brain activity patterns. The study contributes to the debate over whether memory and imagination are separate processes.
A multidisciplinary program that incorporated best practices across perioperative care phases significantly reduced superficial surgical site infections (SSIs) and postoperative sepsis. The bundled approach improved patient outcomes but had no significant impact on deep SSIs, length of stay, or readmission rates.
Comprehensive maps of epigenetic marks reveal patterns for safe restoration and provide a framework for testing disease models and drug candidates. These findings hold promise for diagnosing and treating diseases caused by gene expression deregulation, including cancer and autoimmune disorders.
Hot flashes are a prevalent side effect of hormone decline, causing fatigue, sleep disturbance, depression, anxiety, and impaired memory. The study estimates that $339M in healthcare costs and $27M in lost wages can be prevented with effective treatment.
Research suggests that comprehensive fitness and nutrition regimens can minimize bone and joint health decline and maintain overall physical health in seniors. The study recommends individualized exercise programs with resistance, endurance, flexibility, and balance training, as well as proper nutrition to optimize performance.
Researchers from Monash University and international collaborators analyzed past 30 years of research to determine the impact of protected areas on biodiversity. The study found that these areas generally have larger plant and animal populations and more species than adjacent non-protected areas.
Research found that human gamblers and pigeons are 35% more likely to take risks for high-value rewards due to past experiences. The study suggests a shared psychology driving risk-taking behavior across species.
A UCSF-led team found that children with repeated malaria exposure experience fewer clinical symptoms, but also have reduced immune responses. This depletion of gamma delta T cells may be beneficial in some ways, but detrimental in others, allowing the disease to spread.
A study by Cornell University and the U.S. Geological Survey warns that the Southwest US is at risk of a 'megadrought', with a 50% chance of a decade-long drought and 20-50% chance of a drought lasting over 30 years