A study of almost 10,000 men and women found that frequent arguments with partners, relatives, or neighbors were associated with a doubling in the risk of death from any cause. Men, especially those not in work, were particularly vulnerable to this increased risk.
Researchers developed a new approach to measure the sensitivity of aquatic invertebrates to pesticides, revealing that different species respond differently to toxicants. The study focused on three pesticides, diazinon, imidacloprid, and propiconazole, which showed varying levels of toxicity among shrimps and snails.
A Honolulu-based study reveals that shorter men tend to live longer, thanks to a protective form of the longevity gene FOXO3. This gene is linked to smaller body size during early development and lower blood insulin levels, resulting in a longer lifespan. The study, which followed over 8,000 Japanese-American men for nearly 50 years, p...
A Case Western Reserve University student and his mentor have discovered an ancient kitten-sized predator that lived in Bolivia about 13 million years ago. The animal would have been about the size of a marten and probably filled the same ecological niche as larger sparassodonts.
Scientists at the University of Central Florida discovered a new grasshopper species, Liladownsia fraile, named after Grammy-winning singer and activist Ana Lila Downs Sanchez. The vibrant, colorful insect measures about an inch long and is recognized for its efforts to preserve indigenous culture.
A recent study published in the Journal of Community Genetics found that only one in twenty-two high-risk women received BRCA genetic counseling. Despite having a diverse population, no significant differences were associated with factors like age, race, or family size. The researchers urge providers and patients to be more aware of th...
Researchers analyzed 79 Greenlandic polar bears and 10 brown bears to uncover genes involved in the polar bears' adaptation to life in the high Arctic. The study found that the polar bear diverged from brown bears less than 500,000 years ago and developed unique adaptations to cope with a high-fat diet.
A mouse study found that NAD levels decrease with age in the brain, leading to a loss of neural stem cell function. The researchers discovered that supplementing NAD synthesis could prevent this decline, offering potential therapeutic implications.
Researchers at Virginia Tech created a cheap and effective stink bug trap using a foil roasting pan, dish soap, and light. The homemade trap eliminated 14 times more stink bugs than store-bought models, providing a pesticide-free solution for homeowners.
The Department of Energy's Office of Science has selected 35 scientists to receive significant funding for research through the Early Career Research Program. The program provides support to exceptional researchers during their formative years, helping build and sustain America's scientific workforce.
Researchers found that heart muscle cells in mice undergo a brief proliferative burst prior to adolescence, increasing in number by about 40% to meet the body's growing needs. This discovery suggests that thyroid hormone therapy could stimulate this process, enhancing the heart's ability to regenerate in patients with heart disease.
Two researchers, Jairo Sinova and Stuart Parkin, are awarded prestigious Alexander von Humboldt Professorships for their groundbreaking work in magnetism and spintronics. The funding will support research at the Humboldt Center for Emergent Spin Phenomena over the next five years.
Scientists have found that Borneo's dipterocarp trees produce wood faster than their neighbors and other tree species in the Amazon, with average differences of 3.2 tons per hectare per year. This unique trait may be linked to their ability to tap into scarce nutrient resources or trade-off growth for other plant parts.
Researchers at the University of Illinois have developed materials that can heal and regenerate, filling in large cracks and holes by regrowing material. This technology has the potential to transform commercial goods and aerospace applications, enabling self-repairing plastics with vascular networks filled with regenerative agents.
A new study by Carl Weems found that anxiety intervention programs focusing on academic matters can help students handle test anxiety and other issues. The program was associated with decreases in test anxiety, anxiety disorder, and depression symptoms among participants.
Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania discovered that gibberellin promotes the first transition to inflorescence but inhibits flower formation. The hormone's role is regulated by rising and falling levels, involving protein activation that triggers flower formation.
Researchers from the University of Notre Dame have uncovered a novel mechanism by which carcinoma-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) contribute to tumor progression. CAFs block cell death through insulin-like growth factor-binding proteins, highlighting potential therapeutic targets for slowing breast cancer metastasis. Further pre-clinical...
A new study found that ovarian cancer cells become more aggressive and proliferate faster when adhering to soft tissues compared to stiffer environments. The research team used novel techniques to measure cell forces, revealing a three-fold increase in traction forces on soft surfaces for metastatic cells.
Three NSU professors received patents for their innovative solutions: a novel cancer treatment called JFD that starves tumors, a surface modification technology for ceramic materials in dentistry, and a computer-based system to predict law school admissions. The patents demonstrate NSU's focus on developing novel products and services.
A smartphone app has shown promise in detecting early signs of mood changes in people with bipolar disorder through voice analysis during everyday phone conversations. The app, called PRIORI, analyzes broad features and properties of speech to identify potential mood swings.
A team of nanoengineers at UC San Diego created a 3D-printed hydrogel matrix to house nanoparticles, mimicking the function of the liver in sensing and capturing toxins from the blood. The device successfully neutralized pore-forming toxins, offering a potential solution for removing dangerous toxins from the blood.
Researchers developed a single-cell genomics technique to study malaria parasites, allowing for comprehensive understanding of multiple genotype infections (MGI's) and their impact on disease progression. The findings could inform disease control interventions and reduce rates of infection and mortality.
Researchers found that females susceptible to MS produce higher levels of the blood vessel receptor protein S1PR2 than males, leading to the inflammation that causes MS. The study's findings have implications for developing new treatments, including a drug that disables S1PR2.
Researchers discovered that Th2 immune cells produce a steroid called pregnenolone, which regulates their own proliferation and contributes to immune homeostasis. This finding confirms that immune cells are capable of producing steroids, a previously unknown mechanism.
A study published in PLOS Pathogens found that IL-27 balances the immune response to influenza, reducing lung damage and improving recovery. The researchers discovered that well-timed IL-27 treatment can be beneficial for mice infected with a highly pathogenic influenza strain.
A low-carbohydrate diet was found to significantly reduce inflammation in patients with type 2 diabetes, whereas a traditional low-fat diet showed no similar effect. After six months, the low-carb group exhibited reduced levels of inflammatory markers and improved glucose control.
Researchers at McGill University found that free radicals stimulate a molecular mechanism that increases cell defenses and promotes longevity. The study used the roundworm C. elegans as a model organism and found that elevating free radical generation induced a substantially longer life.
Oregon researchers have successfully captured the handoff of a tracked object between brain hemispheres, a process necessary for processing objects on opposite sides of space. This finding may lead to better understanding individual differences in visual tracking abilities and could provide insights into attention limitations.
Research published in the Journal of Epidemiology & Community Health found that hurricanes Katrina and Rita may have been responsible for up to half of all recorded stillbirths in the worst hit areas. The study suggested that the true fetal death toll may even be higher due to the displacement of people from devastated areas.
Researchers are working on finding elusive answers about Alzheimer's disease development. By leveraging computers and harnessing idle capacity, the project aims to accelerate research and uncover clues that could lead to a cure.
NASA's Solar Dynamics Observatory captured a mid-level solar flare on May 8, 2014. The M5.2-class flare is considered weaker than intense X-class flares, but can still disturb the atmosphere and impact GPS and communications signals.
Researchers identified a single-letter change in DNA that turns cold-sensitive TRP ion channels into heat-activated ones, offering potential for more specific pain relievers with less severe side effects. The study could lead to the development of analgesic compounds to treat chronic pain by targeting temperature-sensitive molecules.
Researchers at the Max F. Perutz Laboratories have developed a method for generating specific and inheritable mutations in the marine bristle worm Platynereis, enabling detailed in vivo functional analyses and advancing research in neurobiology, chronobiology, evolutionary developmental biology, and marine biology.
Researchers discovered antibiotic resistance genes in all 71 environments tested, including soil, oceans, and human feces. The most common types of resistance uncovered were efflux pumps and genes conferring resistance to vancomycin, tetracycline, or beta-lactam antibiotics.
Researchers from the University of Missouri found that juvenile songbirds are vulnerable to environmental hazards, especially during the first three weeks after leaving their parents' nests. The study emphasizes the importance of providing suitable habitats for young birds to survive on their own.
A new study shows that middle predators, not just top predators, influence the health of entire ecosystems. In some areas, fear of predation by middle predators actually harms the reef's fertility.
A study by McMaster University found that defibrillator testing is not necessary and can cause serious complications in patients receiving ICDs. The study, involving 2,500 patients, showed those who didn't undergo the test had similar outcomes to those who did.
Research found that brief, intense exercise 'snacking' before meals improved blood sugar control more effectively than one 30-minute session of moderate exercise. The study showed a 12% reduction in mean post-meal blood glucose concentration with exercise snacking compared to traditional continuous exercise.
A genomic investigation by University of British Columbia researchers has revealed that a lethal parasite infecting a wide range of insects originated from pond scum. The parasite, Helicosporidium, has shed its green past on its evolutionary journey, losing almost all its genes except those required for photosynthesis.
Research finds inactivity surpasses other known risk factors like overweight for heart disease risk in women from age 30 onwards. Regular exercise can save over 2000 women's lives each year in Australia by reducing this risk.
A new study found that Orlistat patients attribute weight loss failure to side effects or ineffective medication. Patients described barriers such as psychological and physical health issues, relationships, and alternative methods of weight loss, emphasizing the need for better patient support and dietary education.
Researchers found that urinary ethyl glucuronide (uEtG) is the strongest marker of alcohol use, detecting consumption in 31% of participants. The study suggests combining uEtG with the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test for better alerting doctors to potential issues.
Researchers at Albert Einstein College of Medicine will study how aging and poor nutrition interact to cause colon cancer mutations. They will use novel techniques, including single-cell whole-genome sequencing, to understand the development of tumors and identify new approaches for preventing and detecting colon cancer.
Joe Pratt, a renowned historian and educator, has been recognized with the prestigious Piper Award for his exceptional teaching. With five UH teaching awards and participation on over 30 Ph.D. committees, Pratt's dedication to student success is evident in his commitment to creating engaging learning experiences.
A majority of UK adults perceive alcohol adverts as breaching the Advertising Standards Authority's Code, with over 75% rating at least one rule breached. The study highlights the need for further consideration of co-regulation and reporting of breaches.
Researchers have created a novel method for isolating and genome sequencing individual malaria parasite cells, allowing for a better understanding of the complex interactions between parasites and their hosts. This breakthrough could lead to more effective drug design and vaccine development, tackling the major global killer malaria.
A new study reveals that leptin acts directly on neurons in the preoptic region of the hypothalamus to regulate peripheral levels of leutinizing hormone, essential for reproduction. The study demonstrates that leptin communicates the status of peripheral energy stores to GnRH-releasing neurons via the preoptic hypothalamus.
Researchers have developed an implantable device that successfully reduced blood pressure in rats by 40% without major side effects. The device targets the vagal nerve to stimulate baroreceptors, controlling short-term blood pressure fluctuations.
Researchers have discovered a link between the disappearance of certain electrons' periodic arrangements and the emergence of freely flowing electrons in a material, leading to enhanced superconductivity. The findings may help scientists engineer ways to boost operating temperatures for real-world energy-saving applications.
Researchers at the University of Washington found that among active-duty Army personnel who use illicit drugs, synthetic marijuana is the most abused substance. Synthetic marijuana, also known as Spice, contains chemicals that mimic THC and can have unpredictable health effects.
Researchers found that Hybrid SPECT-CT was 100% accurate in localizing gastrointestinal bleeding in patients with prior surgeries. The technology has the potential to improve clinical care by resolving ambiguities in planar scintigraphy.
Nadine Kabengi, a Georgia State University professor, has been awarded $750,000 from the Department of Energy's Office of Science for her early career research. She will study metal oxides and solution interfaces to complete a systematic study of thermodynamic properties.
Researchers discovered a fungus that can completely eradicate tree-of-heaven plants, including sprouts. The treatment has shown promise as a bio-control agent to combat the invasive species' rapid spread across the US.
A study published in Advances in Wound Care highlights the promising role of interleukin-10 in scarless wound healing. Researchers found that IL-10 enables fetal skin to heal without scars, providing a potential therapeutic agent for anti-scarring treatments.
Researchers Ayelet Gneezy and Nicholas Epley found that keeping a promise is valued highly, while exceeding it confers little benefit. Exceeding a promise may not be worth the effort as long as the initial promise is kept.
A team of researchers led by Professor Kenneth Lee attempted to replicate a controversial stem cell acid bath study published in Nature, but were unable to induce pluripotency in mouse somatic cells. The full experimental results are now available online, providing an open and transparent record of the attempt.
Researchers have discovered that cell division time is programmed by the 'parent' cell and varies between parent and offspring cells. The study's findings challenge a 40-year-old theory on cell division and provide a new model to predict how populations of cells divide.
Scientists discovered that low levels of RXR protein can cause normal skin cells to transform into cancerous melanoma cells, making it vulnerable to diagnosis. The study's findings may lead to new therapies by stabilizing or stimulating RXR expression.
Using genetic barcoding, researchers found large variations in foraminiferal species collected near salmon farms compared to remote sites. The study established a correlation between species richness and distance from the cages, indicating diminishing species diversity on sites affected by farming.
Researchers discovered that squid with increased vigilance after injury outlive their less vigilant counterparts due to enhanced predator avoidance. This finding challenges conventional views on pain and sensitization mechanisms.
A new study on mice found that mothers eating a gluten-free diet during pregnancy and lactation can protect their pups from developing type 1 diabetes. The researchers hope that this knowledge can be used to develop new treatments for the disease, which affects over 1% of the Danish population.
Researchers warn of a 70% increase in unhealthy summertime ozone levels across the US by 2050 due to climate change. A sharp reduction in emissions could counteract this increase, however, and reduce ozone pollution even as temperatures warm.
Researchers found that pravastatin significantly slowed the growth of kidney cysts in children and young adults with ADPKD, reducing progression of kidney disease. The study's results suggest early intervention may be key to preventing long-term complications of ADPKD.
A new simulation-based training program helps adults with autism improve their job interview skills and confidence. The program, developed by Northwestern University, uses virtual reality technology to provide repeated practice and feedback on interviewing skills.
Rotational X-ray tracking (RXT) measures slow dynamics in disordered systems, overcoming limitations of previous techniques. The new method reveals unique rotational motion and nanoscale elastic properties of gel networks.
Researchers at Wayne State University are investigating grape skin extract as a potential treatment for type 2 diabetes. The study aims to understand the novel inhibitory activity of GSE on postprandial hyperglycemia, with hopes of developing a safe and targeted nutritional intervention.
Researchers found that universal neuromuscular training for high school and college-age athletes significantly reduced ACL injuries by 63%. The study also showed that implementing such a program would save an average of $275 per player, per season in injury-related costs, making it a cost-effective preventative measure.
A partnership between psychologists and physicians can produce a comprehensive, integrated personal care plan that includes attention to mental and medical disorders. The collaboration can help improve diagnosis, address substance abuse issues, and incorporate health behavior change, leading to better primary health care outcomes.
Scientists have discovered how hepatitis C virus proteins interact within human cells, revealing a better understanding of viral replication and pathogenesis. This knowledge paves the way for developing new antiviral substances with low cellular toxicity.
Researchers at Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center have successfully treated patients with recurrent lung cancers using a second course of radiation therapy, achieving a cure rate of over 70%. The innovative treatment approach uses precise targeting and high doses to knock the cancer back, offering new hope for these patients.
Researchers discovered that a subset of immune cells called Th22 acts as a tumor helper, supporting colon cancer cells in renewing and developing stem cell properties. The study suggests targeting the pathway involving epigenetic factor DOT1L to potentially treat colon cancer.
Researchers at Princeton University discovered that bacteria curve shape is crucial for flourishing as a group. Curvature helps swarmer cells attach to surfaces, ensuring next generation stays close to nutrients and progenitors. The study highlights the importance of naturalistic settings for studying bacteria.
A recent study by Ohio State University found that viewing partisan news from both conservative and liberal viewpoints does not increase acceptance of citizens on the other side of the political fence. Instead, it amplifies polarization, making people more critical of opposing views and less accepting of those who hold them.
A study found that more frequent face-to-face physician visits after hospital discharge can reduce kidney failure patient readmissions by 3.5%, resulting in significant cost savings. Nearly 400,000 people in the US are on dialysis, highlighting the importance of this intervention.
Researchers found that SOCS4 suppresses the immune system's runaway reaction to flu infection, reducing the risk of cytokine storms and related deaths. The discovery provides a potential means of minimizing the impact of flu pandemics.
Vanessa Alejandro, a UH geology student and founder of Warriors of the Wild, has been awarded the first-ever Udall Scholarship from the University of Houston. The scholarship recognizes her leadership potential, academic achievement, and commitment to pursuing a career in environmental conservation.
Researchers developed a method to label and track single tumor cells circulating in the blood using photoswitchable fluorescent proteins. This advance could help understand cancer spread and prevent metastasis. The technology allows for real-time tracking of individual cells in the bloodstream.
Researchers found that a variant of the KLOTHO gene not only has anti-aging effects but also enhances brain function by increasing klotho levels. The improvements occur regardless of age, with beneficial effects observed in aging mice as well as young animals.
A Penn-led study reveals a new molecular circuit controlling longevity in yeast and complex organisms, which may offer a therapeutic intervention to mimic caloric restriction's lifespan-enhancing effects without dietary restrictions. The findings suggest a potential strategy for combating aging-related disorders in humans.
A study confirms mitochondrial deficits in children with autism, which affect the functioning of granulocytes and lead to increased oxidative stress. The findings suggest that deficiencies in energy metabolism may contribute to cognitive impairments associated with autism.
A population-based screening program in the UK detected a small number of lethal pathologies, including heart block, irregular heart rhythm, and valvular heart disease, in 2.7% of screened individuals. The study suggests that cost-effective screening programs can prevent sudden cardiac deaths in young people.
Researchers found that SOCS4-deficient mice exhibited abnormally high levels of cytokines and chemokines, similar to a 'cytokine storm', which contributed to severe symptoms and slower viral clearance. The study suggests SOCS4 plays a crucial role in regulating the immune response against influenza virus.
A new study from the University of Toronto found that one in 25 middle school children in Canada binge drink, with those having three or more chronic conditions facing twice the risk. Youth with mood disorders are also three times as likely to binge drink, highlighting the need for targeted prevention strategies.
A recent genome study has found that polar bears rapidly evolved the ability to consume a fatty diet without developing heart disease due to mutations in cardiovascular function genes. The study also reveals that polar bears diverged from brown bears less than 500,000 years ago.
Flea beetles sequester glucosinolates without triggering the plant's defense mechanism. They utilize the compounds for their own communication and defense against predators.
A multi-university team has developed a technology to transform lignocellulosic biomass into a jet fuel surrogate via catalytic chemistry. The proposed approach could potentially produce aviation fuels at a cost of $2.88 per gallon, making it a promising alternative to traditional petroleum-derived fuels.
A new study reveals distinct northern and southern Chinese psychological cultures, with southern China's history of rice farming contributing to its interdependent nature. The 'rice theory' proposes that centuries of cooperative rice farming have led to a more collectivist culture in southern regions.
System 91B, a tropical low pressure area, has been lingering over southwestern India since May 8. The storm's eastern quadrant remains over the region, while its western quadrant extends into the Northern Indian Ocean. Maximum sustained winds are estimated at 10-15 knots.
A sunburn risk monitor, Smartsun, is now available for purchase online. The device, worn as a waterproof wristband, changes color in response to UV radiation levels, warning users of potential skin damage.
System 90E is a tropical low-pressure area located southwest of Zihuatenejo, Mexico, heading towards landfall in the region. The National Hurricane Center has given it a 20% chance of becoming a tropical cyclone over the next 48 hours.
A genome comparison reveals polar bears' rapid evolution to cope with a high-fat diet, providing insight into fatty acid metabolism and cardiovascular function. The study's findings may offer tools to modulate human physiology and protect against the ill effects of high-fat diets.
A new study from the University of Houston finds that childhood poverty contributes to higher obesity rates among young adult women, with repeated exposure during childhood increasing their risk. The study also highlights the importance of helping families escape poverty in improving their long-term health status.
A Phase I study of an experimental antibody produced at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital found tumors shrank or disappeared in some patients with advanced neuroblastoma, and disease progression was temporarily halted in 15 children.
A gene variant linked to longevity may also improve learning and memory, according to a new study. Researchers found that individuals carrying the KL-VS variant of the KLOTHO gene performed better on cognitive tests.
Twenty-four new species of Aleiodes wasps were discovered in the cloud forests of Ecuador, mummifying caterpillars in an unusual way. These small organisms have a significant impact on forest ecology by controlling plant-feeding caterpillar populations, helping to sustain biodiversity.
Researchers develop nanoparticles that release two chemotherapy drugs, erlotinib and doxorubicin, at staggered times to weaken tumor cells' defenses before delivering DNA-damage. This approach dramatically shrinks lung and breast tumors in mice, including aggressive triple-negative breast cancer cells.
New Jersey Institute of Technology researchers are investigating how climate change may disrupt the vital relationship between bees and plants, which could lead to poor crop pollination and lower yields. The study, supported by a $150,000 grant from the National Science Foundation, aims to understand how temperature changes may affect ...
The team developed a method to measure the energy needed to change magnetic anisotropy in a single Cobalt atom, revealing its maximum magnetic anisotropy energy and longest spin lifetime. This breakthrough presents a single-atom model system that can be used as a future qubit for quantum computing.
Scientists discovered a surge of heart muscle cell division in young mice, increasing cardiac muscle cells by 40% and suggesting thyroid hormone could aid in children's treatment, offering an alternative to focusing on stem cells.
The University of Rochester's Center for Emerging and Innovative Sciences will lead the development of a national roadmap for photonics manufacturing. The initiative aims to address critical gaps and strengthen the US's share in global photonics manufacturing, which has dropped to less than 10%.
A study by Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health found that reducing air pollution in NYC would increase children's IQs, leading to improved academic performance and future earnings. The estimated economic gain for each child could be as high as $215 million.
Researchers at NIST have created a new type of FIB microscope that can image nonconductive materials and analyze chemical composition. The instrument uses lithium ions to produce lower-energy beams than traditional SEMs, enabling greater detail in nanostructure imaging.
In a Phase 2a pilot study, Neurovance's EB-1020 SR demonstrated statistically significant improvement in ADHD symptoms and executive functioning deficits. The non-stimulant treatment showed promise as a potential alternative to stimulants for treating adult ADHD.
A study at Johns Hopkins Medicine found that recycling a patient's lost blood during heart surgery results in healthier blood cells able to carry oxygen more effectively. Patients who received only their own recycled red blood cells had normal cell behavior, while those who received banked blood showed reduced flexibility and function.
Researchers developed GaitTrack app that uses eight motion parameters to analyze a person's walking pattern, providing valuable insights into cardiopulmonary, muscular, and neurological health. The app has shown promising results in monitoring chronic lung disease patients, predicting lung function with high accuracy.
A meta-analysis of 20 studies found that eating more fruits and vegetables can lower stroke risk, with a 32% decrease for every 200g of fruit consumed daily and an 11% decrease for every 200g of vegetables consumed daily. A diet rich in fruits and vegetables is highly recommended to meet micronutrient and macronutrient requirements.