Researchers at UNSW Australia propose that very low nutrient diets may extend lifespan in laboratory animals by increasing cellular recycling and repair mechanisms. This effect could potentially lead to longer, healthier lives for humans through a better understanding of these cellular recycling mechanisms.
A study by the University of Leeds reveals that global warming of 2°C will negatively impact crop yields in temperate and tropical regions, with reduced yields starting from the 2030s. The impact of climate change on crops will vary from year-to-year and place-to-place, becoming more erratic.
Scientists used MESSENGER spacecraft images and topographic data to build a comprehensive map of tectonic features on Mercury's surface. The findings indicate the planet has contracted between 4.6 and 7 kilometers in radius over its lifetime.
A new analysis reveals that dust in the air absorbs sunlight west of India, warming the air and strengthening winds carrying moisture eastward. The study also shows that natural airborne particles can influence rainfall in unexpected ways, with changes in one location rapidly affecting weather thousands of miles away.
Scientists have identified a previously unrecognized gene variation associated with healthier blood lipid levels and reduced risk of heart attacks. The discovery uses a new approach to scan the genome for variations in genes that change protein function.
A team of scientists has identified the transport protein SWEET9 as a key player in three diverse flowering plant species, demonstrating its essential role in nectar production. By analyzing specially engineered plants lacking this transporter, they found that sugars accumulate in stems instead of being secreted into nectaries.
Researchers create experimental substances based on a tiny protein found in cone snail venom that could lead to the development of safe and effective oral medications for chronic nerve pain. The new substances are about 100 times more potent than morphine or gabapentin, with fewer side effects and lower risk of abuse.
Researchers from Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and BGI Shenzhen identified important alterations of tumor-associated genes and tumorigenic pathways in esophageal squamous cell cancer. They found 8 significantly mutated genes related to ESCC, including a novel gene FAM135B that enhances cellular malignant phenotypes.
Researchers have found that third-hand smoke compounds can cause DNA damage and stick to it, potentially leading to cancer. The biggest risk is for babies and toddlers who are more vulnerable to environmental hazards. Removing affected items and taking steps like vacuuming and washing clothes can help reduce exposure.
Researchers have found that agavins, a natural sweetener from the tequila plant, can lower blood glucose levels and aid in weight loss. By acting as a dietary fiber, agavins are non-digestible and won't raise blood glucose, making them an attractive alternative to artificial sweeteners.
Researchers at Salve Regina University discovered that honey has multiple mechanisms to combat bacterial infections, including the osmotic effect, acidity, and polyphenols. The study found that honey inhibits biofilm formation and disrupts quorum sensing, making bacteria more susceptible to conventional antibiotics.
Researchers embedded carbon nanotubes into chloroplasts to capture light energy by 30 percent. Plants were also modified to detect nitric oxide, a common environmental pollutant. This represents the first steps in launching plant nanobionics, a field that could turn plants into self-powered devices.
A room-temperature graphene light detector has been developed that can sense the full infrared spectrum without bulky cooling equipment. This technology could enable heat vision technology in contact lenses and expand vision capabilities.
Researchers at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory discovered a small-RNA pathway that targets 'jumping genes' in reproductive cells to prevent genetic damage. The pathway uses microRNAs to silence transposons and protect the genome.
Scientists have developed a water purifier that can remove pharmaceuticals, pesticides and other pollutants from drinking water using sunlight. The new technology combines titanium dioxide and graphene to create an easy-to-use system that could be incorporated into consumer products.
A major study reveals that only 23% of seasonal and pandemic flu infections caused noticeable symptoms, with a staggering 77% remaining asymptomatic. The research, published in The Lancet Respiratory Medicine, underscores the need for improved surveillance to accurately track disease burden.
Scientists have discovered two novel genes linked to angiosarcoma, a rare and aggressive cancer of blood vessels. The study found that these genes are mutated in nearly 40% of cases, suggesting potential new targets for treatment.
Researchers mapped RNA activity in 29 tissue types, cell lines, and environmental conditions to understand gene expression in the nervous system and response to stress. The study identified new genes and rare RNAs involved in stress response and complex brain function.
An international team of researchers found that deep winter mixing plays a crucial role in transporting iron to the surface, supporting phytoplankton growth and the aquatic food chain. The study highlights the unique aspects of the iron cycle and its sensitivity to climate changes.
Researchers have discovered that Mercury has contracted by as much as 4.4 miles due to cooling, exceeding previous estimates of ½ to 2 miles. This finding is consistent with thermal models and resolves a decades-old paradox in understanding the planet's history.
Scientists found that Northeast Greenland Ice Stream started losing mass in 2003 due to localized temperature increase, contradicting previous predictions. The study suggests this region is sensitive to climate changes and could contribute significantly to global sea-level rise.
Researchers have identified a key pathway that helps cancer cells survive in low-glucose environments, and found that certain diabetes drugs can inhibit this pathway to kill cancer cells. The study provides new insights into how anti-cancer properties of diabetes drugs like metformin may work.
A team of scientists has identified the key player in plant nectar production, revealing that plants rely on SWEET9 to transport sugars into extracellular areas where nectar is secreted. The discovery suggests that this process evolved early in the formation of flowering plants and may have increased genetic diversity.
Researchers have successfully developed a method to create high-quality, lower-fat versions of popular food products like sauces, dressings, and desserts. By adjusting the calcium level and acidity, they were able to improve the texture, appearance, and flavor of these foods without sacrificing taste or nutritional value.
Scientists have developed a potentially safer and greener alternative to the hormone-disrupting chemical BPA. Bisguaiacol-F (BGF), synthesized from lignin, is being touted as a suitable replacement due to its similar shape to BPA and lower toxicity levels. The researchers believe BGF could be ready for market within five years.
Researchers discover that only 20-30% of water vapor molecules condense on a liquid surface, while the majority bounce away. The study's findings could lead to more efficient desalination membranes and fundamental understanding of fluid flow at the nanoscale.
Researchers found that the northeast Greenland ice sheet is no longer stable and contributing to global sea level rise. The ice stream's retreat accelerated by 20 kilometers over the last decade, suggesting a positive feedback mechanism that could increase future sea level rise.