University of Washington researchers discovered that incorrect information spread rapidly on Twitter during the 2013 Boston Marathon bombing, outpacing correction tweets. The study analyzed over 10 million tweets and found that misinformation persisted even after corrections were made.
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.
New research shows a 95% success rate after five years for meniscal allograft transplantation (MAT) surgery, with an additional operation required in 32% of cases. Patients can recover and return to active lifestyles with the right treatment, according to lead author Dr. Frank McCormick.
The American Thoracic Society has developed guidelines to identify and manage patients with sickle cell disease who are at increased risk of mortality from pulmonary hypertension. Guidelines recommend treatment with hydroxyurea, chronic transfusion therapy, or indefinite anticoagulant therapy in patients with confirmed pulmonary hypert...
Researchers have made progress on a 'breathing' battery that could replace lithium-ion technology in electric vehicles, with the potential for nearly twice the energy storage capacity. The new battery design uses air instead of traditional materials and has shown high conductivity and the ability to discharge and recharge 100 times.
A new study reveals that 83% of major league pitchers who underwent Tommy John Surgery returned to the mound, with most returning after an average of 20.5 months. The surgery also showed positive performance indicators, including a drop in ERA and pitching losses.
Researchers found significant osteoarthritic changes on reconstructed knees (65%) compared to non-involved knees (14%). Quality of life and other health-related scores were comparable to those seen in healthy controls.
New data reveals that 82% of Division 1 NCAA football players return to play after ACL surgery, with motivation and skill playing key roles. Sophomores and juniors show the highest return rates, at approximately 90%, while scholarship players average around 87.6% recovery.
Researchers found that revision arthroscopic rotator cuff repair surgery's long-term outcomes are not as successful as in a first-time surgery. After two years, patients who underwent revision surgery experienced increased pain and impaired function compared to those who had primary surgery.
Bob Hatcher, a renowned geoscientist at the University of Tennessee, has been awarded the Marcus Milling Legendary Geoscientist Medal. The honor recognizes his outstanding contributions to the field, including his research on continental crust evolution and community outreach efforts.
Scientists have developed a way to convert mechanical energy into electricity, enabling the creation of portable and sustainable power sources. The technology, known as triboelectric nanogenerators, can harness energy from everyday movements such as walking or rubbing, making it possible to charge mobile devices on the go.
Research suggests that pediatric ACL surgeries are faster for those with commercial insurance and higher household incomes, leading to better outcomes and quicker returns to sports. This delay in treatment may increase the risk of additional knee injuries.
IceBridge began its 2014 Arctic campaign with two sea ice surveys north of Greenland, focusing on changes in sea ice elevation and thickness. The mission aims to collect more data, including cross-basin surveys over the Arctic Ocean and flights over the Beaufort and Chukchi seas.
The study found that approximately 2.5 million Americans are living with an artificial hip and 4.7 million with a knee replacement, highlighting the need for ongoing patient care. The prevalence of total hip and knee replacements among adults aged 50 and older is as high as 2.3% and 4.6%, respectively.
A survey of parents with congenital heart disease found that physicians often fail to provide compassionate and understandable information, leading to difficult decisions and stress. The study suggests that physicians should offer context, including success rates and internet resources, to help guide treatment choices.
A new study suggests that gastric bypass surgery can diminish knee pain in obese patients without osteoarthritis, with improvements comparable to those achieved through knee replacement surgery. Patients who underwent bariatric surgery reported significant reductions in knee pain and physical function at one-year follow-up.
Research from the University of Adelaide has confirmed that gene USP9X is crucial for early human brain development and intellectual disability. Mutations in this gene disrupt normal brain cell functioning, leading to disorders such as epilepsy and autism.
A new study found that universal neuromuscular training for adolescent athletes can reduce ACL injuries by 63%, making it the most cost-effective strategy. The program's estimated cost is approximately $1.25 per day, saving $275 per player per season.
Biophysicists at Rice University developed a computational technique that combines genetic and structural data to analyze complex molecular machines. The technique, called DCA, reveals previously unknown details about protein transitions between functional states.
Researchers found that drivers with hemianopia had lower detection rates for pedestrians on the side of their field loss due to inadequate scanning patterns. These individuals often failed to scan the entire intersection or scanned too little, increasing the risk of accidents.
South African and French scientists have dated the nearly complete skeleton of Little Foot to around 3 million years old, refuting previous claims of a younger age. The study analyzed stratigraphy, micro-stratigraphy, and geochemistry to determine the age of the fossil.
A new study published by the Institute of Food Technologists found that a mixed raspberry jelly with black and yellow raspberries had high sensory acceptability. The production of a 3-colored jelly could be an alternative to traditional single-color jellies, providing additional health benefits from antioxidants.
A large analysis of international studies suggests a time-dependent link between diabetes and pancreatic cancer. Screening programs may be necessary for patients with new-onset diabetes, particularly those without significant risk factors.
A study of obese orthopedic trauma patients found higher rates of complications and increased healthcare costs, but surprisingly lower injury severity scores compared to non-obese counterparts. The research revealed that obese patients required longer hospital stays and more intensive care unit admissions.
A new study found that patients with obstructive sleep apnea who received care from board-certified sleep medicine physicians and accredited sleep centers were two times more likely to be adherent to positive airway pressure (PAP) therapy. Patient satisfaction was also associated with physician certification.
Obese children are more likely to suffer from distal radius fractures and experience complications related to healing. Surgical pinning at the onset of fracture may ensure faster and more effective healing for these patients.
Seven large fires are burning in the Southeast, with six located in Oklahoma and one in Louisiana. Prescribed fires account for the majority of these fires, reducing wildfire damage and improving habitat, according to land management officials.
Researchers used brain-mapping techniques to study imitation in schizophrenia patients and found abnormal brain activity in areas associated with imitation. The findings suggest that individuals with schizophrenia may have a less specialized brain network for processing social information, leading to difficulties with social interactions.
Researchers at Hospital for Special Surgery found that patients who lose weight after hip or knee replacement have better clinical outcomes, including improved function and activity levels. Meanwhile, patients who gain weight experience inferior outcomes, highlighting the importance of maintaining good health and a suitable weight.
A study published by the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons found that platelet-rich plasma (PRP) treatment is more effective than cortisone injections in treating severe chronic hip bursitis. PRP provided short- and long-term pain relief, with significant improvements in patient function.
Researchers found a positive association between age and performance on the digit symbol substitution test, but no significant link with years of football participation. The study suggests that playing football is not inherently detrimental to neurocognitive function.
The University of Colorado will receive a $2.1 million grant to help adolescents with Type 1 diabetes manage their disease and improve health outcomes through the Flexible Lifestyle 3mpowering Change (FL3X) study. The study aims to teach teens how to manage insulin, blood sugar, and daily tasks, with positive outcomes from a pilot study.
Researchers found that just a handful of genetic mutations give E. coli the capacity to withstand ionizing radiation, making them similar to Deinococcus radiodurans. The study demonstrates active DNA repair mechanisms that allow organisms to resist radiation damage.
A new study found that extreme sports like skateboarding and snowboarding have the highest risk of severe head and neck injuries. Concussions were the most common injury, with a higher risk in snowboarding and skateboarding. The Academy recommends helmet use for safer participation.