The BMC Ecology Image Competition showcases intimate moments of animals and plants, revealing their private lives. The competition captured stunning images of ecological interactions, including a Namaqua Rock Mouse pollinating the Pagoda Lily and an albatross feeding her chick.
A new filter technology has been developed using inert gas to bore holes in high-quality steel, resulting in a more stable and flexible membrane. The process is environmentally friendly and eliminates the need for toxic chemicals, making it an attractive alternative to plastic membranes in highly sensitive applications.
Damage to the prefrontal lobe is often overlooked but critical for socialization, emotional control and real-life decisions. Studies have shown that distinct areas of the frontal lobes are essential for complex human skills and behavior.
Mutations in histone H3.3 drive cancer by repressing PRC2 and recruiting demethylases like KDM3B. This alters chromatin structure, allowing oncogenes to be derepressed, potentially leading to tumorigenesis. The specific role of these mutations remains an open question.
Researchers developed a new technique to measure nanomechanical properties of microstructures undergoing stress and heating, revealing insights for improving microelectronics and battery designs. The technology uses laser-based Raman spectroscopy to study surface stresses and their impact on mechanical properties.
A University of Montana research lab has made a groundbreaking discovery about the cicada's symbiotic relationship with bacteria. The study found that instead of two bacterial symbionts, there are actually three, including two previously unknown species of <i>Hodgkinia</i>. This new understanding of the symbiosis reveals a more complex...
Researchers have discovered that cicadas' gut bacteria split into two species about 5 million years ago, leaving them reliant on double the species to create essential nutrients. This event is an example of non-adaptive evolution, where genetic change occurred by chance without clear benefits for the organism.
A new method, called compressive direct measurement, allows researchers to reconstruct a quantum state at 90 percent fidelity using only a quarter of the measurements required by previous methods. This technique speeds up the process and takes just 20 percent of the total measurements needed.
Researchers at Penn and NIH found a novel mechanism of cell movement in 3D matrices, where the nucleus acts as a piston to propel cells forward. This discovery has implications for understanding diseases like cancer and biofilm formation.
Women college students spend an average of 10 hours a day on their cellphones, while men spend nearly eight. The study identifies 11 cellphone activities associated with addiction, including texting, emailing, and social media use. Excessive phone use poses risks for academic performance, relationships, and mental well-being.
A new model predicts which type 1 diabetes patients will develop major complications, such as coronary heart disease and blindness. The model uses easily measurable risk factors, allowing healthcare professionals to identify high-risk patients and implement preventative strategies.
A new study has created a 'global roadmap' for prioritizing road building across the planet, identifying areas with most potential benefit and conflict zones. The approach balances competing demands of development and environmental protection.
A study published in the Journal of Medical Genetics found a genetic change in the ADNP gene associated with autism in at least .17 percent of cases. This discovery could provide a definitive clinical marker for some patients' developmental disabilities.
A new study analyzing Saddam Hussein's private transcripts reveals a striking similarity between his public and private beliefs on international affairs. The researchers found that while public speeches were often straightforward, private discussions exhibited more complexity and nuanced views, particularly on the US, Iran, and Israel.
Researchers mapped the circuitry of dyslexia using functional neuroimaging tools, revealing widespread differences in brain connectivity among dyslexic readers. They found decreased connectivity within the visual pathway and between visual and prefrontal regions, as well as increased right-hemisphere connectivity.
Researchers have discovered the origin and behavior of pigment cells that form zebrafish stripes. The yellow cells undergo dramatic changes in cell shape to tint the stripe pattern, while silvery and black cells switch shapes to create a striking contrast between golden and blue colors.
Researchers have identified a process that explains how diverse neurons are generated in the fruit fly's visual system, involving temporal patterning and cell survival.
A population-based study found that IBD prevalence rose significantly in children under 18 and adults 18-64 years-old, while elderly patients saw a rise in prevalence despite stable new cases. The study highlights the growing burden of IBD on Ontario's healthcare system.
A recent study by UNSW psychologists found that expressing gratitude to a new acquaintance increases their desire to seek an ongoing social relationship. This theory, known as the find-remind-bind theory, suggests that gratitude helps people form new relationships and maintain existing ones.
Researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital found that CTC clusters are associated with poor prognosis and metastatic potential. The presence of CTC clusters in the blood of cancer patients may identify a novel target for therapy.
Researchers at USC Viterbi School of Engineering found that socially-assistive robots can improve imitation behavior in children with autism by providing varied feedback. The study used humanoid robots to deliver 'graded cueing' prompts, which helped participants achieve improved or maintained performance.
UTHealth researchers discovered that hollow-head toothbrushes harbor up to 3,000 times more bacteria than their solid-head counterparts. The study's findings highlight the importance of choosing a solid-head power toothbrush to minimize bacterial growth and prevent disease transmission.
A recent study in Australia found no evidence to support industry claims that plain cigarette packs would harm small retailers or increase the trade in illicit tobacco. The research surveyed over 2000 smokers and found no change in their purchasing habits between 2011 and 2013.
Interdependent networks, such as energy production systems, are more vulnerable to cascading failures due to one-directional connections. The study found that redundancy in connections can impact robustness, with less reliable systems operating near critical thresholds.
Renowned Monash rheologist Professor Tam Sridhar has been awarded the ASR Medallion for his distinguished contributions to rheology science and technology. He is the fifth recipient of this award in the past 20 years, recognizing his exceptional service to the field.
Researchers have successfully engineered cartilage tissue using nasal septum cells, showing promising results in repairing articular cartilage defects. The treated patients' knees were replaced with the engineered cartilage grafts, demonstrating the potential of this innovative clinical treatment for cartilage damage.
Cells with oncogenic H-RAS activate ROS, which inactivates PTP1B, leading to AGO2 phosphorylation and gene silencing. This results in the accumulation of p21 proteins and halting the cell cycle.
The special issue of Applications in Plant Sciences explores bioinformatic methods to analyze plant morphology. Researchers successfully applied automated classification and identification techniques, geometric morphometrics, and skeleton networks to examine plant form.
A global study reveals that current marine protected areas are insufficient to safeguard key ecological functions performed by fish species, which provide vital services for coastal habitats. The research identifies vulnerable fish populations outside existing protected areas, emphasizing the importance of expanding these networks.
Astronomers used a global network of radio telescopes to measure the distance to the Pleiades star cluster, resolving a long-standing controversy. The result is a precise measurement of 443 light-years, accurate to within one percent.
The FASEB MARC Program has awarded $7,400 to four recipients to promote underrepresented groups in the field. The awardees include students and postdoctoral researchers from diverse backgrounds who will present their work at the American College of Sports Medicine's Conference on Integrative Physiology of Exercise.
Researchers analyzed water produced by hydraulic fracturing and suggested non-chemical treatments for recycling. They found that produced water contains potentially toxic compounds, but most minerals originate from ancient connate waters, posing little concern.
UMN researchers have created an animal model for facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy (FSHD), a genetic disorder that causes progressive muscle loss. The model allows for the testing of potential therapies and has revealed new insights into the disease mechanism, including a possible link to skeletal muscle regeneration.
A new study published in the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology has found that indoor mold can lead to breathing problems and increase the likelihood of developing asthma. The research highlights the importance of adequate heating, ventilation, and home maintenance to reduce mold growth and its effects on health.
Researchers identified a unique interaction between cyclic-di-GMP and protein BldD, which controls the developmental switch in Streptomyces, turning it into an antibiotic factory. The small molecule assembles into a molecular glue, connecting two copies of BldD to regulate development.
A subset of stage III colon cancer patients with CpG island methylator phenotype (CIMP) showed improved overall survival when treated with irinotecan-based therapy. Patients with CIMP-negative tumors experienced significant harm from the addition of irinotecan, resulting in lower overall survival rates.
A third of women in the UK breast screening program do not fully understand the risks of 'overdiagnosis', despite being informed about the concept. Research found that intentions to attend screening remained high despite uncertainty about the information provided.
Researchers at the University of Miami found that small dosages of nicotine in cigarette substitutes can harm the musculoskeletal system due to overuse. The study suggests that more information is needed on the potential effects of these alternatives, which are not yet regulated by the FDA.
Researchers discovered a biochemical communication system behind 'stuck fermentation,' enabling bacteria to switch yeast from sugar to other food sources without altering its DNA. Winemakers can now avoid stuck fermentations by altering sulfur dioxide levels or adding yeast strains that overpower bacteria.
A new study published in Psychology and Health found that people aged 70 and over who identify themselves as 'old' feel worse about their own health in societies where they perceive lower value than younger age groups. In contrast, higher social status for older adults is linked to better subjective health.
Researchers found a 10-fold decrease in harmful particles in second-hand e-cigarette smoke, but increased levels of certain toxic metals like nickel and chromium. This study provides insight for regulatory authorities and highlights the need for better manufacturing standards for e-cigarettes.
Researchers analyzed samples from seven families over six weeks to understand how people influence the microbial communities in their homes. The study found that hands were the most likely to have similar microbes, while noses showed more individual variation.
A recent University of Georgia research study reveals that peer groups and clinicians play a critical role in developing effective breastfeeding programs. Mothers who received support from peer counselors reported higher success rates with breastfeeding, attributed to the positive influence of role models.
Rice University scientists have successfully synthesized a newly discovered natural antibiotic, viridicatumtoxin B, which shows potent activity against Gram-positive bacteria. The simplified synthesis of this compound may pave the way for developing more effective antibiotics against superbugs.
Scientists from the University of Mainz have created a tunable spin-charge converter based on GaAs, which can transform charge currents into spin currents with high efficiency. The device leverages the spin-Hall effect and electric field manipulation to achieve this goal.
The TX Invasives app allows users to identify 56 invasive plants, 25 insect species, 19 animals, and four pathogens. Citizen scientists have reported over 17,000 invasive species observations since 2005, aiding in management decisions and responding to new threats.
CPRIT awards UT Southwestern $26 million to expand cancer screenings, investigate therapy effectiveness, and conduct cancer biology research. The grants also support recruitment efforts and innovative approaches to improve treatment and prevention of cancer.
Researchers studied a unique solar storm that interacted with Earth's magnetic field, revealing the presence of a dense solar filament material. The event showed a complex interplay between the CME and the magnetosphere, resulting in reduced magnetic effects.
A comprehensive DNA study reveals that the Paleo-Eskimos were a single group of people who migrated to the Arctic from Siberia around 5,000 years ago, surviving in near-isolation for over 4,000 years. Their culture developed into three discrete cultural units: Inuit, Native Americans, and Thule culture.
Dr. Fred Baxendale, an entomology professor at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, has been recognized for his significant contributions to the field with Honorary Membership in the Entomological Society of America (ESA). He has served the organization for over 20 years through various roles and publications.
Historic HIV vaccine trials have triggered an antibody response that lasts for two years, according to researchers at Duke University Medical Center. This response may provide protection against HIV infection.
A recent Perspective piece in the New England Journal of Medicine suggests that the US may no longer need a separate, expensive VA healthcare system for its rapidly shrinking veteran population. The authors propose transitioning out of the hospital business while continuing to provide specialized services like mental health and rehabil...
Researchers at ETH Zurich have developed a nanoscale assembly line that uses mobile assembly carriers and biological motors to assemble complex substances. The system, which is three times thinner than a human hair, enables the selective modification of organic molecules and the assembly of nanotechnological components.
Researchers have created an online analytic platform called CellNet to aid stem cell engineering. The tool uses network biology methods to analyze and predict cell fate and corresponding engineering strategies, offering a reliable shortcut for drug development and individualized cancer therapies.
The 'anger face' is a cross-culturally universal facial expression that employs seven distinct muscle groups to signal the emotional state of anger. Researchers found that each component of the face makes an individual appear physically stronger, suggesting it evolved as a threat display to intimidate others.
A study of dialysis patients found that clinicians' reported discussions about transplantation did not increase patients' likelihood of being listed, despite patient-reported discussions being associated with a nearly 3-fold increased chance. The findings suggest the need for improved patient communication and informed consent.
The FASEB MARC Program has announced the recipients of its travel awards for the 2014 American Society of Human Genetics meeting. The program aims to increase diversity in biomedical research, and this year's awardees represent a total of $29,600.
Aconite poisoning cases have surged in Australia due to increased use of Chinese herbal medicines. A recent case highlighted the potentially lethal nature of aconite, with symptoms including facial numbness, nausea, and abdominal pain.
A new method developed by researchers from Stony Brook University and the U.S. National Institutes of Health uses optical coherence Doppler tomography to image how cocaine disrupts blood flow in mouse brains. The technique provides high-resolution images of capillary flows, shedding light on the effects of cocaine on brain physiology.
Researchers at Northwestern University used Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation to improve memory in healthy adults, showing that specific brain regions can be stimulated to enhance learning abilities. The study's findings have potential applications for treating conditions like Alzheimer's disease and traumatic brain injury.