Research from the University of Southampton shows that prisoners rate themselves similarly to community members on pro-social traits, despite being incarcerated. Prisoners also overestimate their law-abidigness and underestimate their propensity for future crime.
A new anode design for lithium-sulfur batteries quadruples their lifespan, bringing them closer to commercial use. The hybrid anode's development could enable longer electric car drives and cheaper storage of renewable wind energy.
Research predicts increased frequency and intensity of droughts in southern Europe, with potential reductions in river flow levels up to 40% by 2100. Climate change and intensive water consumption will exacerbate drought conditions, worsening their socio-economic impacts.
A new study finds that heavy viewers of 'Teen Mom' and '16 and Pregnant' have unrealistic perceptions of teen mothers' quality of life, income, and involved fathers. The research, led by Indiana University professors, suggests that these shows lead to a distorted view of reality TV and teen parenthood.
Researchers at Rice University have found that motor proteins cooperate differently, with myosinVa producing more force than kinesin-1. This cooperation is crucial for regulating the transport of organelles within cells, and breakdowns in motor function are implicated in human diseases.
A new study by MSU scholar Jennifer Watling Neal found that children believe gender plays a larger role in friendship than it does. This skewed perception can impact their relationships and future interactions with peers and colleagues.
Researchers at Penn Medicine discovered a new shape of red blood cells when they are compressed during clot formation. The polyhedral structures, also known as polyhedrocytes, are tightly packed within the clot interior and may help explain why clots develop resistance to thrombolytic agents.
A University of British Columbia study challenges the Lake Louise Score Questionnaire's reliability in diagnosing acute mountain sickness. Removing sleep quality from the questionnaire increased its accuracy, suggesting that unnecessary treatments may be administered to some individuals and others may not receive necessary treatment.
Acute respiratory tract infections account for nearly 10% of ambulatory care visits in the US. Despite efforts to reduce inappropriate antibiotic use, it remains a problem among adult patients, with no decrease seen in emergency room visits from 2001-2010.
A new study has found that genetic regions associated with increased risk of type 2 diabetes were unlikely to have been beneficial to people at stages through human evolution. The researchers tested this theory by examining 65 genetic regions and found no evidence to support the thrifty gene hypothesis.
Research reveals steep declines in global large carnivore populations, with 77% of studied species decreasing in number. Habitat losses have serious environmental consequences, affecting ecosystems and human societies.
A recent study published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences found that some Indigenous people have limited immunity response to flu effects. The research suggests ethnic differences in immune responses to the H7N9 virus, which can lead to severe outcomes.
Researchers at UH Manoa discovered a biological trigger behind marine biofouling, where certain bacteria induce larval metamorphosis. This process has implications for boat owners and the mariculture industry, which rely on larval settlement to create new communities.
Research finds that US adults with private or no health insurance experience lower levels of psychological distress compared to those with public coverage. Adults with recent changes in insurance status have higher distress levels.
Researchers identified 17 microalgae and aquatic plants capable of removing radioactive contaminants, including cesium, iodine, and strontium. These plant strains could potentially be used to decontaminate highly radio-polluted water in the Fukushima area.
Researchers from EPFL have created a new method to eliminate external noise in nanomechanical oscillators, allowing for nearly perfect ultra-efficient sensors. This breakthrough enables the detection of very small particles and masses with high accuracy, opening up new frontiers in fundamental science and applied studies.
The study identifies MAX as a tumor suppressor gene in aggressive lung cancer, which regulates the expression of BRG1 through direct recruitment to the MAX promoter. The depletion of BRG1 hinders cell growth and is synthetic lethal with MAX-deficient tumors.
Researchers have discovered that a cancer drug can protect the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas and prevent the development of type 1 diabetes in mice. The medication works by reducing sterile inflammation and delaying cell destruction. This finding is a step towards developing a preventive treatment for type 1 diabetes.
Researchers found that myotonic dystrophy type 1 disrupts the normal control of gene expression in heart tissue, specifically affecting microRNAs. This disruption leads to abnormal protein activity, resulting in disease symptoms such as heart malfunction and death.
A team of researchers at University of Illinois used DNA analysis to clarify the details of the Battle of Raphia, a historic battle between Asian and African elephants. The study found that the Eritrean elephants were actually savanna elephants with low genetic diversity, which is expected for such a small population.
Researchers found that mda-9/syntenin is a driving force behind glioblastoma's growth and invasion. The study identified molecular targets that could lead to new therapies and potentially use the gene to monitor disease progression.
A new study found that US power plant emissions decreased by 20-40% since the switch to natural gas with combined cycle technology, releasing significantly less carbon dioxide, nitrogen oxides, and sulfur dioxide. This shift in energy production led to a reduction of 23% less CO2 in the atmosphere last year.
Researchers at Sandia National Laboratories successfully reduced magneto-Rayleigh-Taylor instabilities by adding a secondary magnetic field created by a Helmholz coil to their experiments. This modification allowed the liner to compress fuel more effectively, potentially leading to controlled nuclear fusion.
ProSavin, a novel gene therapy, has shown promise in reducing motor symptoms of Parkinson's disease by delivering dopamine-making genes directly into the brain. Significant improvements in motor scores were seen in all patients after treatment.
Researchers at University of Nottingham develop novel MRI method for diagnosing and treating Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), allowing continuous bowel imaging with no risk to patients. The technique enables measurement of colon volumes, transit times, and effects of FODMAPs on gut health.
Researchers at UNC School of Medicine deploy a combination therapy targeting persistent HIV-infected cells that standard therapies cannot kill. The study uses mouse models and finds that an antibody combined with a bacterial toxin can penetrate infected cells and kill them, resulting in a six-fold drop in the number of infected cells.
Scientists at MIT discovered that marine cyanobacteria continually produce and release extracellular vesicles, which serve as food parcels for other organisms. The vesicles contain DNA, likely facilitating gene transfer among similar bacteria and potentially acting as decoys to deflect viruses.
Research found that EU policies have increased the demand for pollination services at a rate five times faster than the number of available honeybee colonies. Many countries, including the UK and Italy, rely on wild pollinators to meet demands due to insufficient honeybee stocks.
A recent study by UCLA researchers found that minority patients and those of lower socioeconomic status are more likely to have advanced thyroid cancer at diagnosis. Black patients faced the worst outcomes, while Hispanic and Asian/Pacific Islander patients surprisingly survived longer despite having later-stage disease.
The human Y chromosome contains unique genes that have likely been maintained by selection, suggesting it will stick around despite its small size. Genetic diversity on the Y chromosome is low, but researchers found that natural selection, particularly purifying selection, also contributed to this low diversity.
A team of researchers found that island lizards exhibit reduced escape behavior compared to mainland lizards, suggesting a link between island isolation and tameness. The study also revealed that prey size is an important factor in determining escape behavior, with smaller prey having shorter flight initiation distances.
A study published in Hepatology found that SLPI protein plays a critical role in excessive anti-inflammatory responses in acute liver failure, making patients susceptible to sepsis and infection. Inhibiting SLPI protein may help restore immune function and prevent infection in these patients.
A recent study by researchers at the University of Birmingham found no evidence of dehydration in regular coffee drinkers who consumed moderate amounts of coffee. The study measured hydration status using various methods and found that coffee consumption contributed to daily fluid requirements, just like other fluids.
A Virginia Tech engineer is studying the impact of the recent Colorado flood on antibiotic resistance genes. The researcher aims to understand how floodwaters can transport and disseminate these genes, which could have significant implications for human and animal health.
Researchers discovered a mutation in the TMEM95 gene causes idiopathic male subfertility in cattle. The study found that genetic defects can be traced back to one Fleckvieh animal born in 1966, which also highlights potential human medicine applications.
Astronomers are studying the newly formed stars in M83 using citizen science project STAR DATE: M83. The project aims to estimate ages for approximately 3000 star clusters. Citizen scientists analyze the image to identify objects such as supernova remnants and foreground stars, shedding light on stellar birth and death.
Researchers at the University of Cambridge have created a technique that can pinpoint the factors driving cell differentiation, including previously unidentified genes. The method uses haploid embryonic stem cells to uncover how cell differentiation works.
Paleobotanists discover complete fossil remains of Agathis trees from Australia to South America across Antarctica, revealing its vast range and adaptability. The findings provide insights into climate change's impact on the tree's distribution.
Researchers have discovered intricate neural networks in zebrafish that could help explain how humans developed limb control. The study found separate circuits for controlling the left and right sides of the body, which may be a precursor to human arm and leg movements.
Researchers have made a significant breakthrough in understanding the mechanism of a common form of malaria. The study reveals that the parasite attaches to red blood cells using a two-step process involving two copies of a parasite protein coming together like tongs around two copies of a host protein.
Researchers have discovered a mechanism by which bacteria can evade antibiotics, forming 'persisters' that are tolerant to many drugs. The study found Salmonella bacteria forms large numbers of persisters after being engulfed by immune cells, allowing it to survive antibiotic treatment and cause recurrent infections.
A study by Ludwig Cancer Research uncovers a genomic phenomenon that explains why genetically identical animals are different in their biology and appearance. Single cell analysis reveals that one allele is expressed in between 12-24% of all pairs, with random switching throughout life.
A study published in the European Heart Journal found that physical fitness in teenagers can reduce the risk of heart attack later in life. Fit but overweight or obese men have a significantly higher risk of suffering a heart attack than unfit, lean men.
A recent study by the University of Toronto found that adults who experienced childhood physical abuse had a delayed recovery from depression. The research highlights the long-term impact of childhood trauma on mental health outcomes.
Researchers discovered methylation sites linked to hypoxia, immune response, and neuronal differentiation in schizophrenia patients, offering potential avenues for distinct subtype identification and personalized treatment responses.
Researchers discovered a novel clot structure involving polyhedrocytes in contracted clots, making them less responsive to medications. T2HemoStat enabled the detection of this unique structure, which could lead to better diagnostic tools and therapeutic choices.
A Duke University study found that blending fracking wastewater with acid mine drainage can remove up to 100% of radium and other radioactive contaminants, making the treated water suitable for reuse in hydraulic fracturing. This process could reduce environmental risks and provide a win-win for the industry and the environment.
Researchers at University College London found that certain molecular vibrations in plant cells exhibit non-classical behavior, enhancing the efficiency of energy transfer during photosynthesis. This discovery challenges classical physics explanations and has implications for understanding other biological processes.
The SHY hypothesis suggests that sleep weakens brain connections to conserve energy and avoid cellular stress. During wakefulness, learning strengthens synaptic connections, making them more susceptible to interference with new information.
The conference showcased innovations in areas such as Vitamin D analogues, camera technology, and wireless communication. Researchers discussed commercialization strategies, patent development, and the application of technology to healthcare and education.
A new 'fluid biopsy' technique identifies circulating endothelial cells as markers in the bloodstream to predict early onset of heart attacks. The test distinguishes patients undergoing treatment for a recent heart attack from healthy controls, offering a potential solution for clinical use.
A new species of slave-making ant, Temnothorax pilagens, was discovered in the eastern USA, using minimalistic raiding parties to crack castles made by two related ant species.
Scientists at ETH Zurich have created a new form of thin-film technology, enabling the fabrication of extremely flexible and functional electronics. These components can be applied to textiles or worn on the skin to create 'smart' objects, monitoring various bodily functions.
A La Jolla Institute researcher has discovered that mast cells and a cellular protein called STAT5 play a crucial role in causing eczema by triggering increases in mast cells. The study opens new therapeutic avenues to prevent or treat eczema, including blocking STAT5 in mast cells.
A new study by University of Warwick scientists recommends targeting 'superspreader' dogs responsible for the majority of leishmaniasis transmission to humans. By testing parasite loads in infected dogs, this approach could be more cost-effective and result in fewer unnecessary dog killings.
Researchers have found that certain cells contribute to kidney function decline by causing destructive scarring, making them attractive targets for treatments. An additional but limited reserve of mature and functional filter cells is present at birth, which can be preserved and protected through pharmacological strategies.
A new study found that when charity is tied to personal gain, it's viewed less favorably by others. Participants rated individuals who benefited from charity as less moral and ethical compared to those who didn't benefit. The researchers suggest finding ways to reduce this bias could lead to more charitable donations.
Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania propose a new theoretical framework for metamaterials that can perform 'photonic calculus' on light waves, enabling fast and efficient calculations. This technology could revolutionize fields such as image processing by allowing real-time manipulation of light wave profiles without conversi...
The West African lion is facing extinction, with only an estimated 250 adult lions remaining due to habitat loss and human-lion conflict. Conservation efforts are urgent as losing this unique population would result in the loss of a locally adapted species found nowhere else.
Researchers found that activating p53 in normal cells induces Par-4 secretion, killing cancer cells. The paracrine effect targets tumor cells at distant sites, offering a new approach to treating tumors resistant to other treatments.
Researchers developed a new mouse model of atopic dermatitis, revealing mast cells and Stat5 play critical roles in the disease. The study identified potential targets for eczema treatment based on links to human disease.
The study highlights the decline of large carnivore species worldwide, with 17 species occupying less than half of their former ranges. The authors call for an international initiative to conserve these species in coexistence with humans, citing the importance of their ecological effects and social benefits.
Researchers have developed a new approach using long-range PCR and next-generation sequencing to obtain large phylogenomic data sets, increasing accuracy in reconstructing evolutionary history. This method allows for the amplification of larger DNA fragments, enabling the targeting of specific genomic regions.
Researchers have found that the Y chromosome retains key genes essential for male fertility, contradicting theories of its demise. The study, which analyzed Y chromosomes in African and European men, suggests that natural selection has played a crucial role in maintaining the gene content on the Y chromosome.
Researchers found a new giant planet in the Pisces constellation using radial velocity technique, contradicting initial assumption that only single-star systems host planets. The discovery has significant implications for understanding how extrasolar planets are formed and could lead to further discoveries in multiple-star systems.
An international team of astronomers has discovered a surprising new class of hypervelocity stars moving fast enough to escape the gravitational grasp of the Milky Way galaxy. The new stars are relatively small and have different ejection mechanisms than previously discovered hypervelocity stars.
Joslin researchers have discovered that the hormone FGF21 stimulates the browning of white fat, leading to improved glucose metabolism and calorie burning. This finding has implications for the development of new medications for type 2 diabetes and obesity.
The cost of university research is rising due to a significant funding gap, making it difficult for institutions to maintain aggressive research agendas. The authors propose exploring external revenue sources and administrative financial support to address this issue.
A new longitudinal study suggests that prenatal exposure to maternal stress hormones and smoking during pregnancy increase the risk of nicotine dependence in daughters, but not sons. The study found that elevated cortisol levels and maternal smoking were associated with increased rates of nicotine dependence in female offspring.
Scientists have found a way to regrow dendrites, the branch-like structures of neurons that receive information from the brain, independently of axon regeneration. This discovery has significant implications for treating conditions like stroke, where damaged dendrites can only be repaired if blood loss is brief.
Researchers discover a molecule that causes atherosclerosis also activates white blood cells called T cells in mice, worsening autoimmune disease symptoms. This finding sheds light on the link between autoimmunity and atherosclerosis, potentially leading to improved treatments.
Researchers developed a nomogram to predict likelihood of overdiagnosis based on age, PSA level, and Gleason score. The tool aims to help patients and clinicians make informed decisions about treatment options.
Engineered anti-toxin antibodies have been shown to increase toxin neutralization activity by enhancing the interaction between toxins and Fc receptors on immune cells, improving protection against anthrax toxin. Additionally, prenatal retinoid deficiency has been linked to airway hyperresponsiveness in adult mice, highlighting the imp...
Wolfgang Peti, a Brown University biochemist, has received a $1.625-million New to Diabetes Research Accelerator Award to tackle type 2 diabetes. He aims to develop medicines that improve on the status quo, potentially making insulin injections unnecessary.
A new approach targeting persistent HIV-infected cells could complement antiretroviral therapy to achieve sustained disease remission. The immunotoxin 3B3-PE38 significantly reduced the number of infected cells and viral load in a mouse model.
The study pioneers a new approach to forming a 2-D, single-atom sheet of two different materials with a seamless boundary. By rethinking traditional methods, researchers combined graphene and boron nitride into a single layer only one atom thick.
A new intranasal vaccine against pertussis has been successfully tested in humans, inducing an immune response that lasted for at least 6 months. The vaccine was found to be safe and effective, with no adverse events reported even at the high dose.
Researchers have developed a powerful technique to visualize the shape and motion of RNA at the atomic level using nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (NMR). This allows for better understanding of RNA's structure and function, which can lead to the development of new drugs for diseases with genetic bases such as cancer.
A Russian research team studied the link between genetic shifts and antigenic drift in influenza viruses. They found that reassortments lead to increased rates of point mutations, which can result in highly virulent strains. This study may aid in predicting future flu outbreaks.
Prenatal retinoid deficiency linked to airway hyperresponsiveness in adult mice, affecting proper airway development and inflammatory responses. Retinoid signaling plays crucial role in preventing inappropriate pulmonary inflammation.
The study highlights the ecological benefits of large carnivores, including controlling herbivores, mitigating global warming, and enhancing biodiversity. Without these species, ecosystems may collapse, leading to reduced plant diversity, biomass, and productivity, as well as increased greenhouse gas emissions.
Denise R. Simmons, a Virginia Tech professor, received an NSF CAREER award to study factors influencing engineering students' co-curricular involvement and workforce entry. Her goal is to broaden participation in engineering degrees and increase the number of engineers entering the technological workforce.
A study by the University of Toronto's Rotman School of Management found that transformational leaders can curb cynicism and improve employee commitment to change. Correctional officers who worked for 'transformational' leaders showed reduced cynicism and higher levels of individual commitment towards change.
A new study found that acute otitis media, or ear infection, is associated with significant increases in direct costs incurred by consumers and the health care system. The research showed that pediatric AOM accounts for approximately $2.88 billion in added health care expenses annually.
A new study by Dr. Mark Reiff suggests a radical approach to funding public higher education: students pay a fixed percentage of their income after graduation, while investors receive a share of the cohort's average income. This system, called 'education securities,' could provide affordable education for all and relieve governments of...
The Hubble Space Telescope has revealed a glittering treasure trove of more than 800,000 stars and protostars embedded inside the Tarantula Nebula. The observations were obtained as part of the Hubble Tarantula Treasury Program, which will produce a large catalog of stellar properties.
Researchers at Harvard University have created a new method to control cells after transplantation, allowing for more efficient cell therapies. By engineering cells with microparticles that provide cues for behavior, the team can track cells, control stem cell differentiation, and change cell interactions with immune cells.
Researchers developed a test to predict early onset of heart attacks by identifying circulating endothelial cells (CECs) in the blood. The technique has been successful in distinguishing patients undergoing treatment for a recent heart attack with healthy controls.
The study reveals that E6AP is composed of three distinct protein molecules, controlling nerve cell function and viral replication. This breakthrough provides potential drug targets for autism and cervical cancer treatment.
Perphenazine, a 50-year-old antipsychotic medication, has been found to actively combat cells of difficult-to-treat acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) by turning on the cancer-suppressing enzyme PP2A.
An innovative device evaluates spinal movement, reducing X-ray testing and potential healthcare costs. The electrogoniometer measures three-dimensional spinal movement, allowing for earlier patient recovery and cost savings.
Researchers identified a key molecule facilitating transport of protein from neuron cell body to axon, enabling electrical impulses. This discovery could help explain neurological disorders linked to malfunctioning or degenerated axons.
Researchers at The Rockefeller University demonstrate that engineering Fc domains of anti-toxin antibodies enhances toxin neutralization activity. Mice expressing humanized FcR were better protected from anthrax toxin when given engineered anti-anthrax toxin antibodies.
Researchers successfully transplanted skin-derived stem cells into collagen tubes to bridge gaps in injured nerves, resulting in functional recovery and saving the upper arms from amputation. The study provides a promising new avenue for treating peripheral nerve injuries.
A single low dose of lithium helped restore kidney function in mice with acute kidney injury, suggesting a potential therapeutic application for the mood stabilizer. Acute kidney injury is a serious complication affecting hospitalized patients, with limited treatment options.
A study found that testosterone use has increased sharply among older men in the US and UK, with many having normal testosterone levels and non-specific symptoms. The Endocrine Society's guidelines recommend a clinical diagnosis of low testosterone only for men with consistent symptoms and unequivocally low hormone levels.
Researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital have developed a procedure to induce immune tolerance to hand and face transplants, which could free recipients from lifelong immunosuppression. The study successfully tested this approach in miniature swine, paving the way for expanded availability of these complex transplants.