Roberto Bonasio, PhD, receives NIH New Innovator Award to study epigenetic memory in ants and its implications for biological processes. The award supports his research on gene expression controlled by epigenetic pathways that alter chromosome structure.
The sequencing of the house fly genome has identified unique detoxification and immune system genes that could aid in understanding human disease susceptibility. By studying these genes, scientists hope to develop treatments or vaccines for diseases transmitted by flies, such as typhoid and trachoma.
Researchers found that family doctors may not be detecting lung cancer signs promptly enough, with one in seven patients dying within three months. Chest x-rays performed in primary care had lower early death rates, but frequent GP visits increased the risk.
Tropical Storm Vongfong continues to weaken as it approaches Japan, with NASA satellite data showing significant impact from westerly wind shear. The storm's structure is being affected by the strong winds, causing most of the clouds and showers to be pushed to the east.
A study published in JAMA Internal Medicine estimates that there are 14 million smoking-attributable major medical conditions in the US. The largest cause of these illnesses is chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), with an estimated 7.5 million cases attributable to smoking.
A French scientist has developed an open source simulation method to calculate the actual cost of relying on a combination of electricity sources. The study found that an optimal mix contains a large amount of nuclear power and a small amount of fluctuating energies like wind and solar.
University of Iowa researchers found a gene in an amoeba that functions similarly to the human PTEN gene, which suppresses tumor growth. They tested the gene in mice and found it fully overcompensated for defects caused by mutated PTEN genes, potentially leading to new cancer treatments.
Scientists discovered that a common protease enzyme furin activates MERS-CoV to fuse with cell membranes and enter host cells. Blocking this process could lead to treatment by preventing the virus from infecting cells. The study found two cleavage sites on the spike protein, allowing for more spread in animals or humans.
Tropical Storm Fay has begun extra-tropical transition, weakening from hurricane status. The National Hurricane Center expects Fay to merge with a frontal zone and become an extra-tropical cyclone by tonight.
Researchers at North Carolina State University have developed a DNA-based drug delivery system that targets cancer cells using nano-cocoons made of DNA. The system uses self-assembling DNA techniques and specifically delivers anticancer drugs to cancer cells, releasing them quickly once inside.
Fossilized lamprey larvae, 125 million years old, have been discovered in Inner Mongolia, providing insights into the life cycle and evolution of this ancient fish. The study sheds light on the development of all animals with a backbone, revealing that human body features originate from jawless fishes like the lamprey.
A new study led by Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center found that fructose ingestion increases blood levels of the hormone FGF21, providing a reliable predictor for altered fructose metabolism. This discovery offers an avenue for further investigation into genetic and environmental determinants of metabolic response to fructose.
A study published in Annals of Internal Medicine found that medical residents' knowledge of High Value Care is essential for patient outcomes. The study used the IM-ITE exam and a hospital care intensity index to assess resident knowledge, revealing that conservatively managing patients was a key competency.
Swiss researchers have discovered a new parasite species that represents the missing link between fungi and extreme parasites. The study reveals that microsporidia adopted intracellular parasitism first, followed by genome modifications such as the loss of mitochondria and metabolic simplification.
A new study examines the implications of re-contacting patients with new genetic information, exploring consent, communication, and expectations. The research aims to provide evidence-based recommendations for an ethical framework regarding patient re-contacting.
Researchers have discovered a fusion protein in approximately 15% of secondary glioblastomas, offering insights into the disease's cause and potential therapeutic targets. The PTPRZ-MET fusion may be exquisitely sensitive to existing MET inhibitors, allowing for personalized oncologic care.
A study found that states with larger African-American populations are more likely to have harsher incarceration practices and conditions of confinement. States with lower rates of poverty also exhibit greater punitiveness in terms of political and symbolic punishment.
A team of scientists has developed a new way to identify genes important for photosynthesis in maize and rice, which can be used for crop improvement. The findings also revealed new pathways and information about how plants fix carbon, helping to prioritize candidate genes for enhancing growth and yield.
A Clemson University-led research team aims to develop materials that can encase nuclear waste for safe storage. The project focuses on crystalline ceramic based on naturally occurring minerals that endure for millions of years.
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) is revisiting its policy on toddler screen time as technology advances. Pediatricians Dr. Dimitri Christakis and Dr. Donald Shifrin will debate the topic at the AAP National Conference & Exhibition, with both agreeing that hard rules are challenging to implement.
A new study found that living close to a major road increases the risk of sudden cardiac death in women by 38% compared to those living far away. Researchers also discovered that proximity to major roads is associated with increased risk of fatal coronary heart disease.
The UCLA Center for Healthier Children, Families and Communities has established a national Health Care Transitions Research Network for individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), focusing on research to improve physical, psychosocial, educational and vocational outcomes for adolescents and young adults with ASD.
A program providing guidance on antibiotic prescribing for children is effective but loses its benefits after auditing and feedback cease. Continued feedback to clinicians is crucial to maintaining proper usage.
NASA's Terra and GOES-East satellites monitored Tropical Storm Gonzalo as it moved through the Lesser Antilles. The storm is expected to strengthen and become a hurricane on Oct 15, affecting several Eastern Caribbean islands with warnings and watches in effect.
Researchers found daily sulforaphane treatment improved behavioral and communication assessments in participants with moderate to severe autism spectrum disorder. The study showed significant improvements in factors such as irritability, lethargy, and communication after 18 weeks of treatment.
Researchers from the Niels Bohr Institute have calculated a worst-case scenario for sea level rise, predicting a maximum of 1.8 meters by the end of this century. The study combines IPCC estimates with expert community data, indicating a likelihood of less than 5% for sea levels exceeding 180cm.
Research reveals that consuming non-native algae 'superweeds' rich in arginine promotes the deadly virus causing tumors in endangered sea turtles. The disease is considered the leading cause of death for green sea turtles, with over 60% of Kāne'ohe Bay turtles bearing tumors.
A team of Michigan State University scientists has discovered a protein called CHT7, which acts as a cellular snooze button controlling algae's growth and oil production. This discovery also provides insight into the early stages of cancer, offering a new model for tumor suppression and growth.
A study by SDSU biologist Jeremy Long found that scale insects have a complex effect on cordgrass growth, with salinity being a key factor. In fresh water, infested plants grew taller, but in salt water, the effect was reversed. The research suggests that plants can overcompensate for grazing when not stressed by salinity.
ORNL researchers directly observed single dopant atoms moving inside a bulk material for the first time, contradicting theoretical predictions. The study provides unprecedented insight into the properties and lifespan of new materials, particularly in energy-saving LED lights.
A team of scientists received funding to investigate how neural stem cells vary, which could lead to better treatments for neurological conditions. The study aims to identify molecular differences between types of neural stem cells, shedding light on their behavior and potential therapies.
A study published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism found that mutations in the ARMC5 gene promote the growth of benign tumors in the adrenal glands and meninges. This discovery provides new insights into the causes of Cushing's syndrome, a disease characterized by elevated cortisol levels.
A new study aims to improve the transition of stroke patients from hospital to home by assigning social workers to assist in care. The goal is to reduce complications and improve quality of life for patients who face emotional, social, and health challenges after discharge.
The University of York has secured a £320,000 grant to purchase the UK's first automated carbohydrate synthesizer, transforming glycoscience in the country. This technology will enable researchers to synthesize complex sugars, which have been challenging to produce due to their complexity and chemical synthesis challenges.
Researchers found that moderate levels of free radicals are necessary for proper skin wound healing in laboratory roundworms. Increased ROS can even accelerate wound closure, suggesting a potential therapeutic target for improving wound healing in humans, particularly the elderly and those with diabetes.
Researchers have discovered that ependymal progenitor cells can respond to purinergic receptors, which may lead to potential therapeutic alternatives in treating spinal cord injuries. A second study found that transplanted bone marrow cells enhanced neurological repair and remyelination of damaged areas.
A study found higher orexin levels in patients with moderate-to-severe Alzheimer's disease compared to controls. This association was also observed in relation to total tau protein levels and cognitive impairment, highlighting the potential link between orexinergic system dysregulation and AD progression.
A recent study published in BMC Public Health found that childhood obesity rates in Ireland have leveled off, but one in four Irish children remain overweight or obese. The researchers analyzed data from 14 studies conducted between 2002 and 2012 and found that national obesity rates dropped from 7% to 4% after 2008.
Researchers at Imperial College London have developed a new cancer drug, DTP3, that selectively kills multiple myeloma cells without causing toxicity. The drug works by stopping the NF-kB pathway, which allows cancer cells to multiply, and has been awarded funding for clinical trials in patients with multiple myeloma.
Researchers at Queen Mary University of London discovered that stretching the amniotic membrane leads to the overproduction of prostaglandin E2, damaging tissue and reducing its mechanical properties. This overproduction activates a protein called connexin 43, potentially leading to rupture and pre-term birth.
Researchers discovered that high levels of the inhibitor TIMP-1 induce local inflammation in liver tissue, allowing tumor cells to form metastases. By understanding this mechanism, scientists can develop new treatments to prevent cancer progression and metastasis formation.
A study by Penn State scientists found that children born to older mothers have higher rates of mitochondrial DNA mutations, which can cause over 200 diseases. The researchers also discovered the size of the 'bottleneck' period during egg-cell development, providing crucial information for genetic counseling and family planning.
Researchers found no link between levels of physical activity at age 14 and depressive outcomes at age 17. The study suggests that any potential benefits of exercise on mood may be small or nonexistent during adolescence. This finding has important public policy implications, highlighting the need for alternative preventive measures.
Researchers created a 'smart' separator with a nanolayer of copper that detects shorting and provides early warning before overheating and bursting into flames. The technology aims to reduce battery fires, which have caused concerns in the aviation and electronics industries.
A commentary cautions against using experimental Ebola drugs without proper triage to minimize risks. Meanwhile, health economists highlight a major flaw in the FDA's cost-benefit analysis of proposed cigarette labeling regulations. Additionally, a national study reveals that medical residents have varying levels of knowledge on High V...
Scientists at LMU München have synthesized a ferromagnetic superconducting compound that exhibits both properties simultaneously. The new compound, (Li,Fe)OH(FeSe), can coexist with ferromagnetism and superconductivity even at higher temperatures than previously known.
A new study suggests that ALS progression is linked to increased protein instability, particularly in mutant superoxide dismutase (SOD) proteins. The researchers found that SOD clusters or aggregates are common in affected motor neurons and support cells, suggesting a potential target for therapy.
A recent study published in the Journal of the American College of Nutrition found that eating potatoes as part of a balanced diet can aid in weight loss. The research, led by Dr. Britt Burton-Freeman, involved ninety overweight men and women who were given various calorie restrictions and provided with potatoes, healthful recipes, and...
Researchers at the University of Montreal discovered that Sonic Hedgehog promotes medulloblastoma progression by inducing DNA damage. Inactivation of Boc receptor reduces tumour growth and progression.
High-resolution cryo-electron microscopy reveals the structural changes in the bacterial ribosome that result in resistance to erythromycin. The study sheds light on how bacteria acquire resistance genes and how they interact with antibiotics.
The University of Hawaii's Hawai'i Center for Advanced Communications has received a $500,000 grant from the National Science Foundation to develop innovative solutions for improving radio spectrum utilization. The project aims to provide reliable broadband wireless service to remote and rural areas in the Hawaiian Islands and beyond.
Researchers analyzed images from the Russian spacecraft RadioAstron and found small spots in the overall image, which they call substructure. This phenomenon can be used to infer the actual size of the underlying source, including the black hole's emission region.
Scientists at NTU Singapore have created a new battery that can be recharged up to 70 percent in only 2 minutes, with a lifespan of over 20 years. This breakthrough enables electric vehicles to charge 20 times faster than current technology, reducing recharge time from over 4 hours to under 15 minutes.
Poor dental health among athletes affects their wellbeing, performance, and quality of life. High-carb diets and acidic sports drinks exacerbate the problem, leading to tooth decay, gum disease, and other issues.
Researchers at the University at Buffalo have successfully treated chronic, precancerous inflammation in the intestine using an oral biologic medication. The study found that targeting disease-promoting inflammatory cells can render them less able to cause disease, offering a promising avenue for site-specific oral therapy.
A recent study published in the Journal of Consumer Research found that uncertainty can be a motivating factor for individuals. Researchers discovered that people are more likely to invest time and effort into pursuing an uncertain reward, rather than a certain one. This phenomenon is attributed to the positive experience of making the...
A comprehensive systematic review found higher levels of multimorbidity in women, with older women suffering from multiple conditions up to 62% more than men. The study highlights the poor quality of evidence on this critical area of healthcare and emphasizes the need for better research.
Researchers found stenting as effective as endarterectomy for preventing fatal and disabling strokes, with slightly higher risk of minor strokes in the stented group. The study suggests stenting should be offered to more patients under 70 due to its lower risks.
Researchers at Penn State have developed a metamaterial coating that allows coated objects to function normally while appearing as something other than what they really are. The 'illusion coatings' work by using copper patterns designed to create the desired result, enabling practical applications for cloaking metal antennas and sensors.
A chemical derived from broccoli sprouts, sulforaphane, has shown improvements in social interaction and verbal communication in individuals with moderate to severe autism. The treatment demonstrated significant reductions in repetitive behaviors and increased communication skills within four weeks.
Researchers found that fermented milk produced with Lactococcus lactis H61 strain improved skin hydration and reduced sebum content in healthy young women. The study, published in the Journal of Dairy Science, suggests a potential health benefit of probiotic dairy products.
Researchers at UNC Health Care are testing the effect of physical activity calorie expenditure (PACE) labels on consumers' food decisions. The goal is to determine if labeling calories with equivalent exercise time can lead to reduced calorie consumption.
The authors compared the effects of continuous versus bandwidth haptic steering guidance on drivers' ability to stay in their lane and overall satisfaction. They found that bandwidth guidance was more effective at preventing errors and improving performance. The study's findings have implications for human-automation interaction/autonomy.
A QUT study found that more than 50% of outdoor workers rated UV radiation exposure as a major concern. The study developed personalized sun protection action plans, which led to significant increases in workers' behaviors and attitudes towards sun protection.
A $3.3 million grant from the US Department of Energy will fund research into producing renewable plastic precursors and other substances from biomass. The project aims to develop high-value commodity chemicals worth over $5,000 per ton.
Poor oral health in elite athletes shows no signs of improvement and must be remedied. Experts recommend simple measures like better brushing and flossing can provide marginal performance gains similar to expensive physical therapies.
Scientists discovered a new land snail species, Aegista diversifamilia, in eastern Taiwan, confirming previous suggestions of cryptic species within the previously identified A. subchinensis. The new species is larger and has a different shell shape than A. subchinensis, highlighting the importance of biogeographic barriers.
Researchers found that mental stress can cause reduced blood flow to the heart in women, leading to ischemia, a prevalent component of cardiovascular disease. The study suggests sex distinctions in how the body responds to mental stress, with women experiencing increased negative emotions and decreased positive feelings.
Researchers found that asynchronous cell repair causes muscle fibrosis in Duchenne muscular dystrophy patients, leading to progressive weakness and tissue replacement. This study suggests that resynchronizing regenerative processes could be a potential treatment for fibrosis.
UCSF researchers develop SunTag technology to precisely turn genes on and off, revolutionizing CRISPR applications. The technique has broad implications for reprogramming cells and understanding diseases.
Researchers found a potent antibiotic and a gene that confers immunity to it in Staphylococcus epidermidis Strain 115. The discovery could lead to large-scale production of the antibiotic, potentially solving the growing antibiotic crisis.
The new guideline offers direction in evaluating symptoms, family history, ethnicity, physical exams, and lab test results to determine the most suitable genetic tests. It also provides recommendations on treating and managing complications such as muscle wasting, heart problems, and breathing difficulties.
Four urban sections of the San Andreas Fault system have stored enough energy to produce major earthquakes, according to a new study. Three fault sections – Hayward, Rodgers Creek and Green Valley – are nearing or past their average recurrence interval, indicating they are overdue for a significant quake.
The Braak hypothesis suggests that Parkinson's disease begins in the digestive tract and spreads to the brain. Researchers at Lund University have now found direct evidence of this process, tracking the spread of alpha-synuclein protein from the gut to the brain in rat models.
Researchers propose harmonizing academic structure with function by rethinking graduate education and research. They suggest adapting models from the film industry, which recognizes individual contributions and rewards them equally.
A study of patients with stable heart disease found that women experience more changes in blood flow to the heart and platelet aggregation under mental stress, while men exhibit greater changes in blood pressure and heart rate. This difference highlights the need for tailored treatment approaches for cardiovascular disease