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.
A recent study suggests that chronic disruption of circadian rhythms may contribute to inflammatory bowel disease and other harmful conditions. Consuming a high-fat, high-sugar diet can worsen the effects of circadian rhythm disruption on intestinal flora.
Researchers created a prototype automated system to check millions of lines of code for consistency with privacy promises. They employed a new language, Legalease, and used Grok to annotate existing programs, allowing for high accuracy in compliance checks.
A pioneering study by Southern Methodist University researchers found that students with low IQs can learn to read at a first-grade level after four years of specialized instruction. The study's results demonstrate the potential of scientifically-based reading programs for students with intellectual disabilities or low IQs.
Circadian rhythm disruption during chemotherapy worsens its side effects, including fatigue and body weight loss. Researchers suggest personalising chronotherapy delivery to improve clinical tolerability and potentially boost treatment effectiveness.
Researchers have discovered how proteins fetuin-A and albumin can slow down the uptake of calcium phosphate crystals by blood vessel cells, reducing damage. The study offers potential to develop treatments to prevent and reduce the damaging effects of calcification in ageing and several diseases.
A system of slowly conducting nerves in the skin respond to gentle touch, triggering rewarding sensations. This 'soft touch wiring' plays a crucial role in human social behavior and may be disrupted in individuals with autism.
Researchers from Aarhus University have discovered a hypothesis that explains how the flippase functions in cell membranes, shedding light on genetic errors that cause serious diseases. The study provides new insights into the mechanism of lipid transport and has potential applications for diagnosis and treatment.
A new study reveals that the brain learns to hear by decoding rhythmic bursts of electrical activity from cells in the inner ear. The research suggests that abnormal rhythms may contribute to Central Auditory-Processing Disorders, which affect speech and language development in children.
The Net Children Go Mobile Project found that 46% of children own a smartphone and 41% use it daily, leading to increased digital skills but also online risks such as cyberbullying and exposure to sexual content. However, mobile internet access does not create vulnerability, and younger users are more likely to be affected by these risks.
A new species of Alopoglossus lizard has been discovered in the tropical Andes, characterized by its metallic greenish head and orange belly. The study suggests that this diversity of shade lizards has been underestimated, with six previously described species found to be distinct from one another.
A new study found that a home-based walking program significantly improved walking ability in patients with clogged leg arteries, even 12 months after the program started. The program reduced symptoms of peripheral artery disease (PAD) and increased walking distance.
Researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital discover that pulsed electrical fields can kill resistant bacteria infecting burns, reducing bacterial levels up to 10,000-fold. The technology has the potential to provide a chemical-free way of disinfecting burns and other wound infections.
A new study found that online therapeutic communities can foster empathy and peer-to-peer mentoring among people living with chronic disease. Interactive social platforms build community engagement and markets for new technologies, supporting healthcare reform.
A study of 2,290 women with breast cancer found that while many consider or undergo contralateral prophylactic mastectomy (CPM) to prevent cancer in the other breast, most do not have a clinically significant risk. The procedure is often associated with genetic testing, family history, and higher education.
The Funny River fire in Alaska has reached 7,000 acres and is spreading along the shore, with no evacuations reported. Crews are working to contain the fire, which is being fueled by low humidity.
A recent study by Northwell Health demonstrates that magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) guided biopsies can detect prostate cancer more accurately, with a detection rate twice as high as previous data. The new targeted approach uses MRI and transrectal ultrasound fusion to identify clinically significant prostate cancer.
A University of Leicester team has discovered that the entire island was covered in a searing-hot layer of green glass 45 thousand years ago. The volcanic activity on the island provides insights into hazardous eruptions elsewhere, and may help understand undersea currents triggered by earthquakes.
Researchers at Princeton University have developed a faster method to create 18F radiotracers, which are used to detect and track certain diseases in patients. The new method avoids harsh conditions that scramble the placement of chemical bonds, resulting in improved efficiency and accuracy.
Researchers have developed a new theoretical model to understand how cells monitor and self-regulate their properties in the face of continual cellular turnover. The model suggests that neurons use an internal gauge to adjust ion channel expression, but this system can lead to neuronal hyperexcitability and disrupt overall homeostasis.
A new study found that eating fish, fruit, and dairy products can improve lung function in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The study analyzed data from over 2,167 participants and showed that those who consumed these foods had better lung function, less emphysema, and improved quality of life.
Scientists at Vienna University of Technology create an 'optical synthesizer' that combines different frequencies to form a characteristic laser waveform, similar to music. This enables the creation of attosecond pulse radiation hundreds of times more intense than previous methods.
Researchers at UNC School of Medicine have found a new target for treating chronic pain by targeting the enzyme PIP5K1C. By reducing the level of this enzyme, they showed that the levels of a crucial lipid called PIP2 in pain-sensing neurons is also lessened, thus decreasing pain.
A novel paper-based diagnostic test inspired by scrapbooking has been developed to detect hepatitis C, increasing accessibility and speed of diagnosis. The test can conduct both HCV tests on a sample simultaneously in just minutes, solving the problem of patterning paper without heat.
A study found a fat-storage gene mutation that interferes with key enzyme in lipid metabolism, increasing diabetes risk. The mutation affects 5.1% of the Old Order Amish study participants, with four individuals having two copies of the mutation.
A study by Michigan State University researchers suggests that poverty and crime in neighborhoods are significant predictors of cyberbullying. The findings contradict the notion that cyberbullying is a middle-class problem and highlight the need for targeted prevention efforts in low-income communities.
The EuroPCR panel stresses the importance of personalizing revascularization strategies for STEMI patients. Primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) is considered the gold standard, but its availability can be limited in resource-scarce environments, making thrombolysis a viable alternative.