Researchers successfully delivered a replacement SMN1 gene to animal models of SMA, extending their survival. The study demonstrates that enough copies of the SMN1 gene can be delivered to motor neurons in the spinal cord.
A team of MIT researchers has successfully demonstrated a broadband wireless connection to the moon using a laser-based communication system, transmitting data at a rate of 622 megabits per second. The system, which uses multiple telescopes and amplification techniques to overcome atmospheric challenges, has the potential to enable lar...
Scientists have discovered a significant difference in lower mantle chemistry, shifting from a single ferromagnesian silicate mineral to two distinct phases, including an iron-rich and hexagonal structure called H-phase. This finding challenges geodynamic models and may lead to new discoveries about the deep Earth.
Researchers identified differences in pneumococcal genome that explain why vaccines don't protect children with sickle cell disease from infections. The study's findings will aid efforts to improve vaccine effectiveness and inform research into new protection methods.
A survey of 2,109 medical students found they have a sophisticated understanding of social media's risks and benefits, but struggle with navigating professional ethics. Medical schools are advised to provide guidance on using social media in a professional context.
A new study by Yu Xie reveals growing inequalities in scientific research, with rewards and recognition disproportionately benefiting the wealthy and well-connected. The findings highlight the need to address these disparities to ensure fair access to resources and opportunities for talented scientists of all backgrounds.
A new drug, GS-5806, has been shown to safely reduce viral load and clinical illness in healthy adult volunteers infected with respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). The Phase 2a challenge study achieved primary and secondary endpoints, suggesting potential for clinical trials in naturally infected patients.
Researchers are investigating leadership roles in highly effective, collaborative teams that can troubleshoot problems and minimize conflict. The UCF-NASA study aims to develop a taxonomy for selecting or composing teams according to desirable social roles.
Researchers discovered that blocking pain receptors, specifically TRPV1, can extend lifespan in mice by promoting a youthful metabolism and reducing the risk of age-related diseases like diabetes. The study also found that diets rich in capsaicin, a compound found in chili peppers, may help improve metabolic health and longevity.
A comparative study published in Journal of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry found a 72.1-fold higher discharge rate for PBD in youth in the US compared to England. The disparity remains significant even after controlling for length of stay.
A study by the University of Strathclyde found that parents are the main decision-makers in how children travel to and from school. The research suggests that measures to increase walking to school should target parents of younger children as well as older kids.
A new UCSB study shows that the protein E-cadherin promotes collective cell migration by guiding cells to move and migrate. The researchers used innovative experimental tools to measure forces on E-cadherin molecules, revealing a non-perturbing approach to understanding tissue morphology.
A study from the University of Minnesota found that sex-specific transcription factors perform lifelong work to maintain sexual determination and protect against reprogramming of cells. The researchers identified key transcription factors responsible for maintaining sexual differentiation, including DMRT1 and FOXL2.
Researchers have discovered a pair of genes that regulate eating schedules in sync with daily sleep rhythms, and mutations in one of these genes may play a role in night eating syndrome. In mice with mutations, eating patterns are shifted, leading to unusual mealtimes and weight gain.
Scientific collections provide wealth of information on species' diet, breeding habits, growth rates, lifespan, and ecology. Collections have played crucial role in understanding climate change impacts and disease tracking, with discoveries like de-extinction of the Vegas Valley leopard frog.
Infant health has improved among US poor despite worsening economic conditions, thanks to programs like Medicaid, WIC, and SNAP. These policies have helped reduce low-birth-weight babies and improve maternal health.
The Mosers' groundbreaking discovery of specialized neurons called grid cells has been recognized with the €750,000 Körber prize. The prize money will support their research on grid cell formation and interaction with the environment.
Research by Oxford University psychiatrists found that serious mental illnesses can cut life expectancy by 10-20 years, comparable to the risks associated with heavy smoking. The study emphasizes the need for governments and healthcare systems to address mental health disparities and provide accessible services.
A mathematical model studies opinion dynamics in a population, considering factors like interaction with peers, media influence, and social media. The study provides insights into how information distribution affects societal opinions.
The study of compressible mixing layers is crucial for propulsion design in high-speed vehicles. Researchers introduced a new framework called SED to analyze experimental data, providing evidence for nonlinear growth in CML. The findings suggest that lower growth rates are associated with large-scale vortices and inflow conditions.
A team of researchers found that a significant portion of life uses different vocabularies where the same word means different things in different organisms. This challenges the long-held assumption of a universal genetic code, with up to 10% of bacteria possessing codon reassignments.
A recent study by the University of Kent found that individuals who drink moderately in a group are less likely to view risky situations with greater caution. The research showed that social interaction in groups can reduce the tendency of individual drinkers to accept risks.
Studies suggest that medical marijuana and CBD may help reduce seizure frequency in patients with Dravet syndrome. However, current data is mostly anecdotal and not well-controlled. Researchers emphasize the need for rigorous investigation of medical marijuana's safety and efficacy before drawing conclusions.
The INBRACED initiative has awarded a $400,000 grant to launch an international phase I clinical trial for children with relapsed or refractory neuroblastoma. The vaccine targets the GD2 and GD3 antigens and has shown promising results in children with neuroblastoma in the US.
The ACCOAST trial data showed that pre-treatment with prasugrel in NSTEMI patients undergoing PCI was inferior to treatment after angiography, but the results did not change practitioners' current practice. The new session format aims to translate clinical trial science into daily practice.
Researchers have resolved the crystal structure of sulfamidase, a key enzyme in Sanfilippo A syndrome. The discovery provides insights into the molecular consequences of genetic mutations and will aid in developing novel therapeutic molecules to manage the devastating disease.
Researchers have found that blocking a pain receptor in mice extends their lifespan and boosts their metabolism, including an improved insulin response. This discovery provides potential insights into treating obesity and diabetes, as well as improving metabolic health.
The Debra and Richard Sincere Tel Aviv University Project in Middle Eastern Studies will award substantial scholarships to outstanding doctoral students, fostering joint academic activities with the University of Wisconsin. The gift also supports research seminars, conferences, and faculty/student exchanges between the two institutions.
A new study suggests that kappa opioid receptor blockers might play a role in treating alcoholism by preventing relapse during withdrawal. The KOR system is dysregulated in the amygdala of alcohol-dependent rats, leading to excessive consumption during withdrawal.
Bending nanomaterials can detach layers from each other, improving control over their electronic and optical properties. This discovery advances research in nanoelectronics and optoelectronics, allowing for more accurate interpretation and tuning of material properties.
A new low-carb vegan diet, called Eco-Atkins, has been shown to reduce the risk of heart disease and aid in weight loss. The diet combines elements of both vegan and low-carbohydrate diets, resulting in a 10% decrease in cholesterol levels over six months.
Researchers at NIST discovered that certain quantum dots exhibit 'fluorescence intermittency,' blinking on nanosecond to millisecond timescales. This could impact the stability of quantum dot-based systems for high-speed communication and computing.
A new report by IRCM ethics experts highlights the need for increased regulation and oversight of neurostimulation techniques like tDCS. The report found a mismatch between academic and print media articles on tDCS, with most media coverage focusing on potential enhancement uses rather than therapeutic limitations.
Fibrous tissue in pancreatic tumors actually supports an immune attack that slows tumor progression but cannot overcome it. Immunotherapy could be a promising new avenue for guiding treatment, offering hope for patients with low levels of fibrosis in their tumors.
A systematic review and meta-analysis of over 850,000 people shows that women with diabetes are nearly three times more likely to develop coronary heart disease than women without diabetes. Men with diabetes are twice as likely to develop CHD. The study suggests that sex-specific interventions could improve the prevention of CHD.
Researchers have discovered that victims of repeated non-violent sexual assault experience higher levels of psychological distress and lower self-esteem compared to those who are violently raped. The study's findings highlight the importance of understanding patterns of sexual victimization to develop strategies to combat sexual assaul...
A new review by the American Cancer Society concludes that inexpensive food is a key factor in rising obesity rates in the US. The study finds that Americans are spending less on food than ever before, yet consuming more calories, contributing to the growing obesity epidemic.
Rice chemist Ed Billups and colleagues created nanodiamonds in hydrogenated anthracite coal, but smaller diamonds degraded with subsequent images taken under an electron microscope. The researchers found a window of stability for diamonds within a range of 19-52 angstroms.
Researchers from University of Southern Denmark have discovered that proteins called transcription factors work together in a new and complex way to reprogram the DNA strand when a stem cell develops into a specific cell type. This discovery could lead to new ways of making stem cells develop into exactly the type of cells that a physi...
A recent study found that the US obesity epidemic is affecting all segments of the population, with no significant differences in weight gain among groups based on race or education level. The report suggests that environmental factors such as cheap and easily accessible food are driving the increase in obesity rates across the country.
Researchers recreate extreme conditions to study melting point of basalt at high depths. They found that the melting point is lower than previously thought, indicating a speedy dissolution back into the Earth's depths. This explains seismic anomalies and provides new insight into the temperature of deep Earth.
A metal-organic framework (MOF) has been found to catalyze the conversion of ethane from natural gas into ethanol, a process previously thought to require complex biological steps. The discovery showcases the potential for laboratory-made materials to mimic nature's processes.
Researchers found that exposure to alcohol-related words makes aggressive thoughts more accessible, prompting an aggressive response in ambiguous situations. The effect of alcohol-word priming on aggressive behavior is relatively short-lived, lasting around 7-15 minutes.
Researchers have developed new tests to classify compounds' activity with great detail and speed, identifying safer replacements for BPA. The advance could offer a fast and cost-effective way to identify safe alternatives, as millions of tons of BPA and related compounds are produced each year.
A new study by University of Helsinki researchers found that brain aneurysm rupture risk is not significantly related to the aneurysm's size. Instead, smokers with high blood pressure are more at risk for rupture. The long-term study monitored patients over their entire lifetimes and contradicts previous findings on aneurysm treatment.
A new microfluidic chip produced by NIST can detect the presence of molecules in a complex mixture using polarized xenon gas. The device has been demonstrated to detect weak signals corresponding to fewer than 1 trillion polarized xenon atoms, rivaling low-field optical magnetometry.
Researchers have successfully blocked autophagy in a range of aggressive cancers, including glioblastoma, melanoma, and myeloma, using hydroxychloroquine. The study shows that combining autophagy inhibitors with other cancer therapies can be safe and effective for patients with very sick cancers.
Researchers at Michigan State University found that having somatic cells do the organism's dirty work helps explain the beneficial evolution of separating germ cells. This separation allows organisms to flourish while protecting their genetic material from damage.
Cells adjust mitochondrial apparatus to burn sugars or fats, adapting to changes in fuel supply. The study identifies signals and molecules that regulate this adaptation, enabling cells to switch between glucose and fatty acid burning more efficiently.
A group of over 100 biologists argue that collecting plant and animal specimens is essential for scientific research and conservation. They claim that alternative methods such as photography and DNA analysis cannot reliably identify or describe species. The authors emphasize the importance of preserved specimens in understanding evolut...
The researchers developed a promising hybrid nanoobject for efficient two-photon fluorescence probes using gold nanoshells. The nanoshell acts as an optical antenna, enhancing the fluorescence intensity and stability of fluorescent emitters.
In a study published in Science, researchers found that fruit flies accumulate information before making decisions, suggesting a level of intelligence. The study identified a key gene, FoxP, involved in this process, which may also be linked to human cognitive development and language abilities.
Two papers provide a unified definition of lifelong and acquired premature ejaculation, reducing errors in diagnosis and classification. The definition aims to improve treatment options for affected men and their partners.
Research suggests that patients with polycystic kidney disease (PKD) who undergo a kidney transplant may be less likely to develop cancer compared to those without PKD. The study found that PKD patients were 16% less likely to develop cancer than others who received a kidney transplant, and their overall cancer risk was 48% lower than ...
Paul Goode's research aims to understand how patriotism and nationalism impact regime legitimacy in Russia. He plans to conduct ethnographic observation, interviews, and focus groups with Russian citizens in Tyumen, Western Siberia.
Researchers have found chemical signals that enable breast cancer metastasis by recruiting normal cells from the host animal, providing a promising new direction for cancer treatment. Blocking these signals in mice with breast tumors significantly reduced their ability to spread.
Experts discussed bioresorbable vascular scaffolds' potential to restore normal vasofunction and promote vascular healing. However, concerns remain regarding acute thrombogenicity, delayed endothelialisation, and uncertainty around long-term safety data.
A review of recent economic research found that newborn health has improved nationally in recent years, with a decrease in low birth weight among disadvantaged mothers over the last 20 years. This improvement is attributed to increased public policies and programming aimed at improving prenatal and postnatal care.
Berkeley Lab researchers unveiled the atomic-scale mechanism of microtubule assembly and disassembly. They found that GTP hydrolysis leads to conformational strain, which is reversed by Taxol binding, stabilizing the microtubule lattice.
Grand Challenges Canada announces $12 million investments in global health projects aiming to reduce maternal, newborn and child mortality. Four Canadian-based projects will share $2.6 million in scale-up grants.
Scientists have developed a new approach to convert low-temperature waste heat into electricity with an efficiency of 5.7 percent, surpassing conventional thermoelectric devices. The new technology utilizes the thermogalvanic effect and requires only low-cost, abundant materials.
Researchers analyzed honeybee waggle dances to evaluate EU agri-environment schemes, finding they benefit bees. The study used a novel source of data to monitor large land areas and provide information on landscape quality.
Eumelanin, the primary pigment in human skin, hair, and eyes, has been found to absorb a broad spectrum of sunlight due to its unique physical arrangement. Researchers have identified that disorder in the material's structure plays a crucial role in its broadband blocking ability.
Researchers at Duke University discovered an antibody that simultaneously blocks the sensations of pain and itching by targeting Nav1.7 sodium channels. The study showed promising results in mouse models, suggesting a new treatment option for pain and itch conditions.
A team of scientists at Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München has identified a new genetic switching element responsible for converting pluripotent stem cells into differentiated cell types. The discovery reveals that specific proteins recognize hydroxymethyluracil, a modified DNA base, to regulate gene activity in stem cells.
Researchers have discovered a protein essential for malaria-causing parasites to escape from red blood cells. Antibodies to this protein trap the parasite inside these cells, preventing its progression and potentially leading to a vaccine. The study found zero cases of severe malaria in children with antibodies to the protein.
A research team at UT Southwestern Medical Center has identified the triggering mechanism of an atypical metabolic pathway that allows certain cancerous tumors to thrive. The discovery could provide a future target for drugs that would attack tumors relying on this reverse pathway for sustenance and growth.
Researchers found that crowding leads to a dramatic increase in RNA folding rate, while unfolding rate remains relatively stable. This could have profound effects on biochemical pathways and cellular behavior.
A study published in Cell Metabolism reveals that variations in the FTO gene indirectly affect the function of the primary cilium, a hair-like appendage on brain and other cells. This abnormality increases body weight by affecting leptin receptors, leading to increased food intake and obesity.
NASA's Aqua and TRMM satellites captured data on System 92B, showing heavy rainfall and powerful convective storms in the Bay of Bengal. The system is moving north at 5 knots and has a high potential for developing into a significant tropical cyclone within 24 hours.
Researchers have found that eliminating scar tissue and inflammation in pancreatic cancer tumors can actually make them more deadly. In a new study, mice without desmoplasia developed tumors earlier and died sooner, suggesting that treatments targeting this complex scar tissue may need to be reevaluated.
Researchers at Argonne National Laboratory have discovered a previously unknown phase in iron arsenides, which could resolve a long-standing debate about the origin of nematic order. The new magnetic phase exhibits four-fold symmetry near the onset of superconductivity, contradicting orbital theories and supporting a magnetic explanation.
Researchers found that not all plants react to the fungus in the same way, with some experiencing increased catalpol and citric acid levels while others show little change. The study's findings suggest that the impact of the fungal symbiosis on plant chemistry is not uniform across all plant species.
Researchers at Duke University have developed software that tracks and records infants' activity during videotaped autism screening tests. The program is as good as experts giving the test themselves and better than non-expert medical clinicians and students in training, showing promise in identifying early signs of autism.
Researchers at Temple University School of Medicine are working on three projects to investigate key molecular mechanisms in heart failure, aiming to develop new therapies. The projects focus on signaling pathways implicated in cardiac injury and repair, with the goal of having new treatments ready for patients.
A new study finds that kidney transplantation offers better treatment outcomes and increased survival rates compared to intensive home hemodialysis. However, patients on home dialysis still have good health outcomes, highlighting the need for further research.
Researchers at Karolinska Institutet identified the EBF1 gene driving unhealthy adipose tissue development, associated with increased risk of insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes. The study found that individuals with large fat cells had lower EBF1 expression, altered lipid mobilization, and insulin resistance.
Researchers have identified a substance, known as PfSEA-1, that generates antibodies which can hinder the ability of malaria parasites to multiply, potentially protecting against severe malaria infection. The antigen was associated with reduced parasite levels among children and adults in malaria-endemic areas, and mice exposed to PfSE...
A new study by the University of Adelaide's Australian Centre for Ancient DNA has solved a 150-year-old evolutionary mystery about the origins of giant flightless birds. The research found that the kiwi is most closely related to the extinct Madagascan elephant bird, contrary to previous claims.
A Ludwig Cancer Research study has identified a novel pathway by which proteins are actively and specifically shuttled into the nucleus. The discovery reveals a precise molecular barcode that flags proteins for import and describes the biochemical interaction driving this process.
A Canadian study found that kidney transplant recipients lived longer and had better treatment success rates than patients on intensive home hemodialysis. However, these patients were also at a higher risk of hospitalization within the first year after transplantation.
Researchers suggest that fungi may be causing nutrient scarcity in boreal forests by competing with trees for nutrients, rather than alleviating it. The study's findings have implications for understanding climate change and the role of mycorrhizae in forest ecosystems.
Growing resistance to antibiotics demands a united global response, with experts calling for an independent body to oversee surveillance and set evidence-based targets. The world faces a future where simple infections become deadly diseases, with treatment relying on just one or two drugs.
Researchers are using rare cosmic explosions called supernovae to measure dark energy, aiming to gain insights into its composition and impact on the universe. By studying these events, scientists hope to refine their understanding of this enigmatic force and its role in shaping the cosmos.
Analysis reveals unusual sodium absorption pattern in the crystal, caused by different charges and magnetic moments of manganese atoms. The discovery provides a basis for tailoring the properties of these materials, potentially leading to improved battery performance.
The OU research team will investigate three specific antibiotic resistant pathogens, focusing on their structural components and physico-chemical properties. The goal is to develop a realistic predictive model that facilitates the design of effective antibiotics capable of penetrating the cell wall of these bacteria.
A new class of antimicrobials inhibits biofilm formation and eradicates mature biofilms in Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria. The substance, '1018', blocks the stringent stress response mediator (p)ppGPP, preventing its role in biofilm maintenance.
A new study reveals that Sardinians' active lifestyle, social connections, and access to healthcare contribute to lower levels of depression among the elderly. In contrast, residents from Northern Italy face higher rates of depression due to factors like limited social support and high-stress lifestyles.
Indiana University researchers identified a pattern of cognitive risks in children with cochlear implants, particularly in working memory, controlled attention, and planning. About 30-45% of children with cochlear implants showed delays in these areas, compared to 15% or less in normally hearing children.
Researchers developed a sophisticated computer modelling simulation to explore how fruit fly cells respond to temperature changes during development. The model shows how cells communicate with each other, providing insights into cell signalling networks.
A small molecule peptide destroys biofilms and prevents their formation in various bacteria, including those resistant to antibiotics. The discovery offers a promising strategy to target bacterial biofilms and combat antibiotic-resistant infections.
Italian scientists developed a continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT) machine to treat smallest babies and have successfully used it to treat a newborn with multiple organ failure. The CARPEDIEM device overcomes technical challenges of existing machines, allowing for accurate fluid management and treatment delivery.
Researchers at Cancer Research UK Manchester Institute have found that blocking the MLK family of four enzymes can prevent rapid resistance to vemurafenib, a treatment for advanced melanoma. This breakthrough could lead to new targeted therapies for metastatic melanomas with limited treatment options.
A Michigan State University study found that women with a strong 'I can' mentality during pregnancy and postpartum periods retained less weight and performed more physical activities. The research team measured physical activity levels, barriers to exercise, and the ability to overcome them in 56 women.
The Palomar Transient Factory successfully observed a supernova exploding in real-time, providing unique spectral features that suggest its progenitor was a nitrogen-rich Wolf-Rayet star. This discovery will aid in understanding massive star evolution and identifying potential supernova precursors.
Researchers at UC Berkeley have discovered the mechanism by which Taxol interferes with microtubule polymerization, preventing cell division in cancer cells. This finding could lead to the development of better anticancer drugs and improvements to existing treatments.
A new Stanford study reveals that European farmers will face significant crop yield losses due to climate change, but adapting can help slow the decline. The research shows that adaptation options such as switching varieties or installing irrigation can reduce yield losses by up to 87% for corn.