A study reveals that Mycoplasma pneumoniae CARDS toxin triggers excessive inflammation by activating NALP3, leading to tissue injury and airway narrowing. The discovery could lead to the development of therapeutic strategies to improve health in individuals with airway diseases.
A clinical trial combining stereotactic body radiation therapy with erlotinib improved overall and progression-free survival times for stage 4 lung cancer patients. The treatment combination increased survival rates by more than doubling, from 6-9 months to 20 months.
Researchers found conserved sequences and inverse relationships between RBP binding and RNA structure, suggesting a regulatory role in gene expression. They also identified unique patterns around start codons and links to alternative splicing and polyadenylation processes.
Belgian researchers used patient-derived stem cells to model frontotemporal dementia, a condition that affects about half of dementia cases before age 60. The study found a targetable defect in the Wnt signaling pathway, which can be corrected with genetic therapy or compounds inhibiting this pathway.
Tropical Cyclone Kate experienced rapid weakening after passing over NASA's Aqua satellite on December 31. The storm lost significant cloud cover in the northern and eastern quadrants due to northeasterly wind shear.
The American Cancer Society's annual cancer statistics report found a 22% drop in cancer mortality rates over two decades, resulting in the avoidance of more than 1.5 million cancer deaths. The report also shows substantial variation in decline rates by state, with the Northeast experiencing the largest decline and the South the smallest.
Tropical Depression Jangmi encountered strong southeasterly vertical wind shear, causing its north, northeast, and eastern quadrants to become almost cloud-free. The satellite image revealed the effects of this wind shear, showing weakening thunderstorms northwest of the center.
A new species of fanged frog has been discovered, giving birth to live tadpoles through internal fertilization, a rare reproductive method among frogs. The frog's unique behavior is just one example of the island's incredible biodiversity and adaptive radiation of species.
Researchers found that fast food portions remained relatively consistent in terms of calories, saturated fat, and sodium, but showed variation among chains. The exception was a decline in trans fat content, likely due to legislative efforts.
A Mayo Clinic study found that women with atypical hyperplasia have an increased risk of developing breast cancer over time. After five years, 7% had developed the disease, and after 10 years, 13%. The study suggests that these women should be considered high-risk and screened more intensively.
A study published in Neurology found that exercise programs can reduce falls and improve mobility in people with Parkinson's disease, particularly those with less severe symptoms. Participants who exercised showed a 70% reduction in falls and better overall mood and quality of life compared to those who did not participate.
Researchers have developed a new model system to grow both normal and cancerous pancreatic cells in the laboratory, offering a powerful tool in the fight against pancreatic cancer. The 3D culture system, known as an organoid, can be grown from human patient tissue, providing a path to personalized treatment approaches.
A study published in EMBO Molecular Medicine suggests that contact between humans and virus-infected bats may have originated the Ebola outbreak in West Africa. The researchers found no evidence of larger wildlife being the source of infection, expanding the range of possible Ebola virus sources to insectivorous free-tailed bats.
Theoretical studies have predicted the existence of exotic few-body correlations and interesting pairing states in spin-orbit coupled ultracold Fermi gases. Spin-orbit coupling modifies single-particle spectra, giving rise to these phenomena.
Physicists have found evidence that neutrinos can interact with nuclei without causing damage, producing a 'glancing blow' instead. This reaction creates a new particle from the vacuum, defying expectations and challenging theoretical calculations.
Tropical storm Jangmi has weakened to a tropical depression as it moves into the Sulu Sea, affecting central and northern Philippines. The storm is expected to continue moving toward Palawan before re-strengthening into a tropical storm in the South China Sea.
Researchers have found a new potential target for liver cancer treatment in the protein TREM-1, which accelerates chronic inflammation. Studies suggest that blocking TREM-1 can block the conversion of healthy cells to cancerous ones and even stop progression of existing cancer.
Researchers at UC Davis aim to produce Zmapp, an Ebola cocktail of antibodies, using plant cells grown in bioreactors instead of whole plants. This could enable rapid production and increase capacity for biotech companies.
A study published in JAMA Psychiatry found that children whose parents have attempted suicide are nearly 5 times more likely to attempt suicide themselves. Researchers followed the children of 701 parents with mood disorders for an average of six years, and found a direct effect of parental suicide attempt on child suicide attempt.
Research by University of Missouri-Columbia reveals that children with autism living with pets display improved social skills, particularly in initiating interactions and responding to others. The presence of a pet serves as a catalyst for social interaction, facilitating greater assertiveness among these individuals.
Researchers found that a new malaria treatment combination of artemisinin-naphthoquine was non-inferior to existing therapy for uncomplicated malaria caused by Plasmodium falciparum, but more effective against another species. The study suggests this regimen could be considered for children in settings with multiple parasite species.
A study published in Food and Nutrition Sciences found that neurological disorders among captive felids in the UAE are correlated with copper and Vitamin A deficiencies due to inadequate diets. Thirty percent of animals without supplements developed clinical signs such as ataxia and hind limb weakness.
A new study reveals that genetic factors influencing obesity vary depending on the era of birth and when the research is conducted. Researchers found a stronger association between the FTO gene variant and obesity for individuals born after 1942 compared to those born before 1942.
A team of astronomers developed a simulation that produces galaxies with characteristics similar to observed ones, including mass, size, and age. The strong galactic winds in the EAGLE-simulation lead to lighter and younger galaxies with less star formation, mirroring real galaxy observations.
Researchers at Case Western Reserve University identified a way to increase the presence of the 53BP1 protein, which weakens cancer cells and makes them more susceptible to radiation and chemotherapy. The breakthrough could lead to improved cancer treatment outcomes if supported by animal model tests.
A molecular network composed of 119 proteins has been identified as a crucial contributor to autism spectrum disorders. The network shows strong enrichment for known autism genes and is linked to disruptions in brain circuitry, particularly the corpus callosum.
Researchers develop new hydrogel with electrostatic repulsion properties, inspired by articular cartilage and maglev trains. The material easily deforms under shear forces but resists compressive forces.
A team of researchers from Northwestern University has developed a tri-component synthetic graft to replace torn ACLs, utilizing nanotechnology and biomaterials. The artificial ligament's bone-like ends have healed into native bone, anchoring it in place.
Researchers found a significant link between daily physical activity and vascular health. Inactivity for just five days can decrease the function of inner blood vessel linings, causing vascular dysfunction with prolonged effects.
A new study supports the hypothesis that lung cancer can travel through airways to adjacent lung tissue. This finding has significant implications for diagnosis and management of primary lung adenocarcinoma.
A 30-year study found that neonatal HBV vaccination significantly reduced the risk of primary liver cancer and other liver diseases in young adults. The study's results show that vaccination led to a 84% reduction in liver cancer incidence, highlighting the importance of early intervention.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine have developed a new treatment strategy that allows lower doses of the toxic tuberculosis drug bedaquiline to retain potency while reducing side effects. This approach, which combines bedaquiline with verapamil, has shown promising results in mouse studies and is poised for clinical trials.
Researchers have identified how PF74 and CPSF6 molecules bind to HIV-1's capsid, preventing its disassembly. This process can be targeted for therapeutic purposes in HIV-1 infections, potentially blocking viral replication.
Researchers have successfully created metal-organic frameworks that can stably store and slowly release nitric oxide, a key player in biological signaling pathways. This breakthrough could lead to new approaches for treating infections and heart conditions, as well as potential applications in medical therapies.
The TRMM satellite measured the heaviest rainfall rate of about 1.2 inches per hour north of Tropical Cyclone Kate's eye, with weaker rates around its center. The storm strengthened since Dec. 29 and developed an eye, moving southwest through the Southern Indian Ocean.
Researchers have identified a potential universal therapeutic target for treating multiple infections, including Ebola, by targeting the GRP78 protein. The OSU-03012 (AR-12) and FDA-approved Phosphodiesterase 5 Inhibitors combination has shown promise in preventing viral replication, killing cancer cells, and reducing antibiotic-resist...
Corals expel damaged symbiotic zooxanthellae under moderate thermal stress to avoid accumulation and maintain stable carbon concentration. However, prolonged exposure can lead to increased expulsion of photosynthetically damaged cells, which may not be enough to prevent coral deterioration.
Research suggests yoga can positively impact cardio-metabolic health by reducing CVD risk factors and improving metabolic syndrome outcomes. A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials found significant evidence supporting the effectiveness of yoga as a therapy for these conditions.
Medical ethicists offer guidance on life-sustaining therapies for Ebola patients in developed countries, balancing risks and benefits. Former Surgeon General David Satcher discusses the importance of credibility and influence in the role, emphasizing scientific evidence-based reports.
A team of researchers at Harvard, UC Santa Barbara, and the University of Chicago has developed a technique to precisely place nitrogen vacancy centers within nano-sized diamond structures, enhancing their fluorescence. This achievement is crucial for using NV centers as qubits in future quantum computers.
A new study published in PNAS reveals that atomic steps on metal surfaces can slow down oxidation by forcing them to bunch closer together and eventually stopping their growth. This discovery could have significant implications for understanding and controlling oxidation in a wide range of materials.
Researchers at the University of Missouri School of Medicine have developed a credible tool to assess medical students' ability to deliver patient-centered care. The Patient-centered Care - Objective Structured Clinical Exam (PCC-OSCE) evaluates behaviors such as effective communication, empathy, and active listening.
Researchers found that estrogen enhances an enzyme driving life-threatening allergic reactions in female mice, leading to more severe and longer-lasting reactions. Blocking estrogen or reducing eNOS activity eliminated the gender disparity, suggesting a potential role for estrogen in allergic reactions.
Researchers discovered that aluminum atoms involved in forming oxide stripes come exclusively from the steps, not the terraces. The growing oxide stripes are confined to the flat terraces and must push the steps away as oxygen continues to grab aluminum atoms from the edges.
A study by ASPS members analyzed medial thigh lift in 106 patients with massive weight loss, finding that 68% experienced some complication. Most complications were minor wound-healing issues that resolved without surgery, while swelling was common but usually resolved over time.
Researchers at NYU Langone Medical Center stress the importance of blink assessment in facial transplant procedures, as well as during and after surgery. Careful evaluation can help preserve vision and prevent complications such as corneal exposure and eyelid retraction.
Researchers at EPFL have created a highly sensitive motion detector that can detect the movement of microorganisms, including bacteria and yeast, without prior knowledge of their chemistry. The system uses a nano-sized cantilever to capture vibrations caused by living cells, making it suitable for detecting life on other planets.
A study published in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery found that breast reconstruction using the patient's own tissues provides higher satisfaction scores compared to implant-based reconstruction. However, the findings may be influenced by differences in patient characteristics, such as age and genetic risk of breast cancer.
Archaeologists discovered intestinal parasites' eggs from the Celtic period in Switzerland, indicating poor sanitation and mixed living environments. The parasite eggs suggest a lack of proper waste management and possible livestock introduction, highlighting the challenges faced by ancient communities.
Researchers at the University of California, San Diego School of Medicine have found that feeding mice Neu5Gc promotes spontaneous cancers and systemic inflammation. The study suggests a potential link between red meat consumption and cancer risk, and may also explain connections to other diseases exacerbated by chronic inflammation.
A study published in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery reveals that careful surgical planning and technique are essential for restoring blinking function after facial transplantation. The research highlights the importance of monitoring restoration of reflex blinking to protect long-term visual outcomes.
A recent study found that American cities emit several times more light per capita than comparably sized German cities. The difference grew with city size, highlighting the need for further research on urban light emissions to uncover the reasons behind these disparities.
A study of 411 patients found that economic insecurity is associated with poor diabetes control and increased healthcare use. Material need insecurities, such as food insecurity and cost-related medication underuse, were significant predictors of poor diabetes control.
Researchers used geolocalized tweets to identify land use patterns in Manhattan, Madrid, and London. They found that nighttime tweet activity is concentrated on weekends in Madrid and weekdays in Manhattan, while daytime leisure areas are prominent in London. This study shows the potential of social media data for urban planning.
Researchers develop a novel evolvable Internet architecture framework with design constraints and models analysis to meet future Internet demands. The framework balances the advantages of both clean-slate and dirty-slate approaches, promoting flexibility and stability.
A new study from Indiana University finds that a patient self-reporting version of the Healthy Aging Brain Care Monitor is reliable and valid. The tool measures 27 items on a four-point scale to assess cognitive, functional and psychological symptoms, providing valuable information for busy physicians.
A University of Colorado Cancer Center study reveals that reprogramming damaged stem cells can prevent cancer after full-body radiation. The research suggests that genetic inhibition of the C/EBPA gene allows healthy stem cells to dominate the blood cell production system, reducing the risk of leukemia.
Tropical Cyclone Kate peaked in strength on Dec. 28 with maximum sustained winds near 70 knots, but weakened to 65 knots by Dec. 29 as it moved away from Cocos Island. The satellite imagery showed bands of thunderstorms spiraling into the center of the storm.
Researchers at City College of New York have discovered a new type of quantum particle that combines light and matter properties. This breakthrough could lead to the development of devices that utilize both light and matter, potentially revolutionizing computing and communication technologies.
Research finds mice infected with Lyme disease pathogen facilitate spread of babesiosis, a lesser-known emerging disease. Lyme disease and babesiosis share symptoms, but babesiosis is potentially fatal in immunocompromised patients and poses additional public health threat.