Researchers created novel, self-assembling nanoscale proteins capable of binding small molecules, resulting in fibers that crossed the diameter barrier to the microscale. This breakthrough advances tissue engineering and drug delivery, enabling potential applications for dual-purpose scaffolds and efficient drug delivery.
Cancer exosomes, tiny particles released by cells, contain proteins that promote tumor growth and metastasis. Researchers have identified Dicer as a key player in this process, suggesting new avenues for diagnosis and treatment.
Clinical trials conducted in East Germany between 1983 and 1990 involved over 14,000 patients and 68 Western companies. Despite some strict regulations, the country's desperation for hard currency led to trials with potentially ethically uncertain processes, but no evidence suggests systematic harm to patients.
Researchers at Arizona State University are developing a cost-effective carbon capture technology using an electrochemical technique. The goal is to reduce carbon dioxide emissions from power plants by more than half, with the potential to spur economic development in renewable energy and energy security.
A recent study suggests that moderate amounts of sunshine may help prevent obesity and diabetes by reducing glucose levels and insulin resistance. The researchers found that a compound called nitric oxide released by the skin after exposure to sunlight had beneficial effects on weight gain.
Conflicts at home and school often occur together, with family problems increasing the likelihood of school issues, while school problems can also lead to conflicts at home. The study found that negative mood and psychological symptoms play a key role in this spillover process.
A consortium of Detroit colleges aims to increase diversity in biomedical research by recruiting and mentoring underrepresented students. The REBUILD Detroit project will provide research opportunities, mentorship, and pipeline programs to support the goal of producing more undergraduate students with biomedical degrees.
Researchers have developed a process that uses flash pyrolysis to produce fuels and raw materials from biomass and waste, including plastics and tires. The process produces bio-oil with a high energy density and can be used to replace petroleum-based products.
A group of ferns in the Andean páramo ecosystem evolved highly modified leaves to cope with extreme environmental fluctuations, retaining furled fronds and increasing leaflet pairs up to 300 per frond. The rate of biological species arising is significantly higher among these páramo ferns compared to non-páramo species.
Researchers have found that vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) can stimulate soluble sFlt1 production in the placenta, contributing to the development of preeclampsia. Elevated VEGF levels during early pregnancy can cause severe placental damage and embryonic lethality.
The 'SWITCH' tool enables policymakers to assess the economic and environmental implications of different energy scenarios, revealing significant variations in air pollutant emissions and land use. Researchers call for a move beyond sole focus on carbon reduction targets to consider local energy and environmental contexts.
A family-focused intervention program for middle-school Mexican American children has been shown to reduce high school dropout rates and lower rates of alcohol and illegal drug use. The program, Bridges to High School, strengthens core competencies that allow youth to thrive, even when faced with adversity.
Researchers found that the FGF21-CRF pathway activates the sympathetic nervous system to signal to brown fat, which burns fat to generate heat. The study provides new insights into obesity and weight loss regulation, highlighting the importance of the central nervous system in weight management.
Research identifies DNA copy number variation (CNV) as the genetic cause behind two male pseudo-hermaphrodite horses' sex identity. The study provides the first hints about likely molecular causes and involvement of CNVs in equine disorders, with potential biomedical significance beyond horse racing.
A team from TSRI has established a new C-H activation technique that expands options for making pure batches of one-handed molecules, opening up a new avenue for creating chirally pure molecules for drug discovery. The method uses metal palladium and an amino acid catalyst to break C-H bonds at room temperature.
A comprehensive analysis of nearly 500 papillary thyroid carcinomas has provided new insights into the roles of frequently mutated cancer genes. The study identified molecular subtypes that can help clinicians determine tumor aggressiveness and potential responses to treatments.
ALS is now believed to be a protein aggregation disease, with copper-containing proteins playing a critical role in its development. The research found that SOD1 mutations cause the protein structure to destabilize, leading to increased motion and aggregation.
Two studies found that new soldiers are equally likely to have experienced major episodes of mental illness as civilians, but more likely to have a combination of disorders. Rates of pre-enlistment suicide thoughts and plans are similar to matched civilians, but higher rates later in the Army career suggest chronicity of suicidality
Researchers documented the rapid evolution of native Florida lizards, shifting their perching habits and adapting their feet to better grip thinner branches. Within 15 years and 20 generations, their toe pads became larger with more sticky scales, allowing them to outcompete the invasive species.
Bio-engineers at ETH Zurich have created a biological circuit that controls sensor components using internal timers, enabling precise signal transmission. This breakthrough could lead to reprogramming cancer cells and creating complex bio-computers to detect and kill cancer cells.
A research team led by the University of Liverpool is testing the safety and efficacy of using Ebola survivors' blood to treat patients in West Africa. The study aims to reduce deaths from the outbreak by finding a safe and effective therapy.
Researchers at Berkeley Lab have observed the molecular structure of liquid water at a gold surface under different charging conditions using XAS. The team developed a method to determine the arrangement changes of molecules depending on the voltage, shedding light on battery performance and materials science.
A new study by the University of Toronto found that countries with higher levels of compassion and openness score better in environmental sustainability. The research examines how population differences in personality characteristics predict a nation's environmental records.
A recent study published in Biological Psychiatry found that infants' preference for human faces over objects is associated with reduced callous and unemotional behaviors in toddlerhood. The research also showed that mother-child interactions during playtime can influence a child's emotional development.
A new study found that nearly two-thirds of patients treated for stage 3 colorectal cancer reported some measure of financial burden due to their treatment. The burden was greatest among patients who received chemotherapy and younger patients in low-paying jobs.
Researchers leverage magnetically heated nanoparticles to overcome heat transfer limitations in cryopreservation, enabling rapid thawing of large biomaterials. The technology offers tunable heating rates and can accommodate unloaded sections up to several millimeters in dimension.
Tropical Storm Ana has re-organized due to abating southwesterly wind shear, allowing thunderstorms to circulate around its center. The storm is expected to continue strengthening through early Saturday, moving northward and potentially becoming a hurricane.
A nationwide study found that US doctors spend an average of 8.7 hours per week on administration, including tasks such as billing and insurance approvals. The study also revealed that physicians in Canada spend less time on administrative work due to their single-payer system.
A new study predicts that current international efforts to combat the Ebola outbreak in Montserrado, Liberia, will not be sufficient to contain the epidemic. The research estimates that up to 170996 total cases and 90122 deaths are projected by December 15, 2014, without expanded control measures.
A study of 51,785 individuals with kidney stones found a significant link between the condition and an increased risk of bone fractures. The excess risk was greatest in males during adolescence and women during middle age.
Researchers discovered that Topoisomerase II is required to resolve DNA threads connecting homologous chromosomes, allowing them to separate. Without this enzyme, chromosomes get stuck together, preventing meiosis from completing and resulting in infertility and birth defects.
Rapid lowering of body temperature after a heart attack can minimize damage to the heart muscle. New research highlights the need for faster and more effective cooling techniques to realize the full potential of therapeutic hypothermia.
A new study suggests that modifying grocery store environments can encourage healthier food choices among children. Researchers propose strategies like placing healthy options at eye level, allowing sample tastings, and offering cooking classes.
Researchers at the University of Houston are developing new nanofiltration methods to remove salt from brackish waters, a potentially cheaper alternative to existing desalination techniques. The methods could help alleviate drought-stricken regions' water scarcity issues.
Researchers at the Wyss Institute have developed synthetic gene controls that can be used to create programmable diagnostics and biosensors, which can detect specific diseases or infections using saliva or a drop of blood. The new tools are delivered on pocket-sized slips of paper, making them portable and accessible for widespread use.
Researchers found that reduced levels of SNX27 protein lead to increased beta-amyloid production and brain plaques, a hallmark of Alzheimer's disease. Adding new copies of the SNX27 gene can repair memory deficits in Down syndrome mice.
A comprehensive analysis of thyroid cancer has identified markers of aggressive tumors, which could lead to better targeting of treatments. The study suggests the potential to reclassify the disease based on genetic markers and moves thyroid cancer into a position to benefit from precision medicine.
Zoos and aquariums are vulnerable to disasters, but experts say preparedness training and planning can minimize risks. The University of Illinois veterinarian Yvette Johnson-Walker brings emergency training to accredited institutions, focusing on scenarios like avian influenza and hurricane floodwaters.
Astronomers at Ohio State University have observed a star narrowly escaping capture by a supermassive black hole, releasing only a small portion of its mass. The event, known as a tidal disruption event (TDE), provides valuable insights into the growth and behavior of black holes in the universe.
A recent study by Bradley Hospital found that sleep difficulties, particularly problems with falling asleep, are very common among toddlers and preschool-aged children with psychiatric disorders. The study highlights the importance of addressing sleep problems in young children to improve behavioral adjustment and wellbeing.
The new lattice light sheet microscope collects high-resolution images rapidly, minimizing damage to cells. It enables biologists to visualize the three-dimensional activity of molecules, cells, and embryos in fine detail.
A new study published in The Lancet Infectious Diseases predicts that the Ebola epidemic in West Africa will worsen unless international aid is significantly increased. The model developed by Yale researchers estimates tens of thousands of new cases and deaths by December 15 if current efforts are not intensified.
Researchers found that dissolved oxygen levels significantly impacted scavenger response on submerged carcasses. In areas with low oxygen levels, smaller creatures like squat lobsters were unable to break through the skin, while larger ones were kept out.
Scientists have discovered that PP4 protein oversees DNA processing during sperm and egg generation for successful fertilization. The study found that PP4's activity becomes more crucial during aging, indicating a potential role in age-related fertility declines.
A recent study published in Nature found that no-till farming often leads to yield declines compared to conventional tillage systems, except in dryland areas where it can show promise. Implementing all three conservation agriculture principles is crucial for maximizing yields and minimizing environmental impacts.
Researchers at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital identified a promising triple-drug combination therapy that exploits DNA repair problems in Ewing sarcoma tumors, showing over 70% success rate in mice treated with the combination of chemotherapy drugs and PARP inhibitors.
Researchers found that recreational drug use among swingers was associated with high-risk sexual behavior and STIs, especially in women. The study suggests that targeted interventions addressing safer sex practices and secondary prevention of drug use could be effective in reducing the spread of STIs.
At nearly 4,500 meters above sea level, a team led by University of Maine researchers has discovered the highest altitude ice age human occupation, dating it to around 12,000 years ago. This finding pushes back the known high-altitude habitation period by nearly a millennium.
Researchers use advanced technology, including analytic morphomics, to distinguish between mucinous and non-mucinous cysts. This innovative approach has the potential to reduce unnecessary surgeries and surveillance for patients with pancreatic cysts.
Scientists discovered that cells organize themselves to influence communication within a group. By forming huddles, cells trap and concentrate signals like FGF, enabling them to make decisions that affect organ formation and behavior. This strategy may play a role in wound repair and cancer.
Researchers developed a non-invasive method to detect Aspergillus fumigatus and other fungi causing pneumonia by analyzing patients' breath samples. The test identified 94% of patients with invasive aspergillosis, making it a potential tool for earlier and more targeted treatment.
A study found that a gut bacterium, Csp_P, can reduce infection of mosquitoes by malaria parasites and dengue virus. The bacterium directly inhibits these pathogens in test tubes and shortens the life span of mosquitoes that transmit both diseases.
A team of UT Arlington Computer Science and Engineering students won the NTx Apps Challenge with a smart traffic light network that analyzes traffic conditions in real time. The GridLock system enhances traffic flow, reducing congestion and jams.
UC San Diego has been designated as one of three 'alpha clinics' by the California Institute for Regenerative Medicine to accelerate clinical development of emerging stem cell therapies. The designation will support the establishment of a comprehensive regenerative medicine clinical hub and attract patients, funding agencies, and study...
Researchers discovered high-altitude Pleistocene sites in Peru, including Cuncaicha and Pucuncho Basin, indicating humans survived at altitudes over 4,400m. The findings suggest that people may have lived in these areas for extended periods without genetic adaptation.
A recent study found that most US adults fail to meet daily nutrient recommendations, with those with disabilities having poorer nutrition. The research highlights the need for policymakers and activists to address nutritional challenges faced by people with disabilities.
A European multicenter harmonization study reveals that standardized semi-quantitative anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) IHC is reliable and comparable to FISH testing for detecting ALK protein expression. The study showed 100% concordance among institutions on 15 well-characterized NSCLC specimens, making IHC a potential stand-alone test.
The National Research Mentoring Network aims to address disparities in biomedical research by connecting underrepresented groups with mentors and opportunities. The five-year initiative, led by Professor David Burgess at Boston College, will draw on expertise from four universities and a consortium of academic institutions.
Researchers found that birds grouped together are less susceptible to West Nile virus infection, with a significant decrease in exposure compared to solo birds. This phenomenon, known as the 'encounter-dilution effect', suggests that individual risk is minimized when multiple birds roost together.
Scientists gathered crucial information on upper-level wind shear affecting Hurricane Edouard using NASA's HS3 mission Global Hawk. The hurricane strengthened during the sixth flight, with data showing a sea-level pressure of 969-970 millibars near the eye/eyewall border.
Desert streams have surprisingly simple topography despite being shaped by flash flooding, according to researchers from UCSB's Earth Research Institute. The stream's form is maintained by complex interactions among rainstorms, sediment flows, and sediment grains present on the riverbed.
A new study found a significant increase in type 1 diabetes rates among non-Hispanic white youth, with the highest rate of increase seen in children aged 5-9. The study, based on data from over 2 million children and adolescents, suggests that these trends will continue to be monitored to identify potential causes.
A study published in International Journal of Behavioural Nutrition and Physical Activity found that later sunsets may lead to increased children's physical activity. The research examined associations between sunset time and physical activity levels across 23,000 children in nine countries, with findings suggesting that children's tot...
Researchers call for networks of marine protected areas, co-ordinated governance, and local community involvement to tackle overfishing and habitat destruction. Small-scale fisheries, which involve 90% of the world's fishers, are a major threat, with destructive practices like bottom trawling causing widespread damage.
A study of 4,379 participants found that having AMD in one eye increases the risk of developing AMD in the other eye, with more severe disease progressing faster. The researchers tracked AMD severity in both eyes over a 20-year period and found a strong correlation between the two eyes.
A new study found that mothers with gestational diabetes and those who were overweight before pregnancy have daughters who are more likely to be obese. The research, published in Diabetes Care, suggests that behavior modifications during pregnancy may help reduce the risk of obesity in offspring.
Physicist Pierre Ramond has been awarded the 2015 Dannie Heineman Prize for his groundbreaking contributions to supersymmetry and superstring theory. His work provides a compelling picture of the universe, with tiny string-like objects vibrating to form particles.
A novel software application, CANARY, can automatically analyze high-resolution CT images to classify early-stage non-small cell lung cancer patients into risk groups. The tool was developed at Mayo Clinic and demonstrated accurate stratification of patients into categories with different 5-year disease-free survival outcomes.
A recent report in the Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery has highlighted the potential issue of flexible reamer breakage during single-bundle ACL reconstruction. This has prompted a 'Watch' from JBJS to alert orthopaedic surgeons about the problem. The 'Watch' aims to help surgeons avoid similar mishaps by understanding the causes and ...
Researchers have developed a new method for using engineered gene circuits in a cell-free, paper-based system to detect deadly viruses like Ebola. The low-cost platform could enable rapid detection of different strains of the virus.
Researchers discovered flu virus exploits aggresome, a cellular waste bundle, to release genetic material. The process takes 20-30 minutes and is gradual, with the virus tricking the waste pickup and disposal system.
New research reveals that obese children with asthma often mistake symptoms of breathlessness for a loss of asthma control, resulting in excessive use of rescue medications. This misunderstanding can lead to anxiety, reduced quality of life, and increased healthcare utilization.
A new test developed by researchers at the University of Manchester can identify congenital hyperinsulinism in some patients without known genetic causes. The test measures hormone levels and may influence treatment options, including avoiding pancreatic removal.
Children in high-quality early childhood education and care centers are less affected by changes in family income. Research found that low-income families' children exhibit more behavioral issues when their income decreases, but those attending regulated centers show stable levels of internalizing problems.
UC Riverside researchers have identified a new molecular mechanism for resistance and susceptibility to Fusarium oxysporum, a common fungus causing wilt in tomato plants. The study reveals that microRNAs play a crucial role in regulating gene expression, with specific targets contributing to resistance.
Genomic analysis of Rapanui people reveals significant contact with Native American populations between AD 1300 and AD 1500, suggesting a pre-European trans-Pacific route. The findings challenge traditional textbook versions of human colonization events.
A clinical trial in Sub-Sahara African countries shows a four-month TB treatment is well-tolerated and works for subsets of patients, but is not an alternative to the standard six-month treatment. The new regimen was beneficial for patients without lung cavitation, undernourished individuals, and those living with HIV.
The Department of Environmental Quality has awarded a $1.6 million grant to continue the water cleanup project at the Tar Creek Superfund site, led by Professor Robert Nairn and his team. The project aims to restore balance to the communities and wildlife in northeast Oklahoma.
A new study by Peter M.A. Toivonen reveals that cherry producers need to understand the intricacies of production-harvest-marketing continuum to successfully move sweet cherries from growers to end consumers. The study shows that temperature management is crucial for retaining fruit quality during long-term containerized shipment, and ...
Researchers have designed a new experiment to test the foundations of quantum mechanics at large scales. They plan to achieve macroscopic high-mass superpositions by using a levitated silicon nanoparticle in an interferometer setup.
Research at Brown University found a significant association between self-reported dispositional mindfulness and improved cardiovascular health, including lower BMI, physical activity, and fasting glucose. The study suggests that mindfulness training may be effective in increasing cardiovascular health indicators.
A recent study published in The Lancet highlights the need for comprehensive policy changes to address homelessness. Homeless individuals are not only sick physically and mentally but also have lower life expectancy.
A study by Northeastern University researchers found evidence of price discrimination on four general retailers and five travel sites, with significant price differences in some cases. The team examined 16 popular e-commerce sites using a sophisticated methodology to identify price steering and discrimination.
Researchers at MD Anderson Cancer Center discovered a new 'reader' protein, YEATS, that plays a crucial role in gene activation and DNA packaging. The study suggests that manipulating YEATS domains could lead to the development of new cancer treatments.
NASA's MODIS instrument detects high temperatures indicative of fires in the southern United States, including small wildfires and prescribed burns. Prescribed fires offer numerous ecological benefits, such as reducing hazardous fuels and promoting tree growth.
Researchers develop acousto-optic tunable filter (AOTF) technology to overcome technical challenges in balloon-borne imaging. AOTFs enable flexible, compact, and low-power narrowband or hyperspectral imaging, suitable for various planetary science applications.
Researchers at TSRI have discovered a process that can catch unstable proteins before they form toxic clusters, reducing their secretion and aggregation. The approach targets the Unfolded Protein Response pathway and involves activating transcription factor ATF6 to increase protein folding and trafficking.
A recent study found that 43% of medicinal plants in Pakistan were naturally contaminated with toxins produced by moulds. The levels exceeded permissible limits in 70% of the samples, and 31% produced harmful toxins. This highlights a need for stricter regulation to protect people using herbal medicines.
Researchers identified CD44 as a potential marker to select patients unresponsive to Sorafenib, a common liver cancer treatment. Patients with a less differentiated mesenchymal phenotype expressing CD44 tend to resist Sorafenib's action, highlighting the need for alternative therapies.
A genetic variant once aiding Arctic survival now linked to increased risk of hypoglycemia in modern populations. Researchers analyzed genomes from Northern Siberians, Europeans, and East Asians, finding the CPT1A gene variant was prevalent in Northern Siberians but absent in other populations.
A Dartmouth study found that Diffuse Optical Spectroscopic Tomography (DOST) imaging can accurately predict which patients will respond well to neoadjuvant chemotherapy, enabling earlier and more effective treatment. This breakthrough could significantly improve disease-free survival rates for breast cancer patients.
A new series on homelessness in high-income countries highlights the alarming health risks faced by homeless individuals, including higher rates of tuberculosis and depression. The series also notes that despite an expansion of services, the risk of death among homeless people has remained similar over the past 20 years.
Researchers design manmade proteins with new structures, including central cavities, to enhance biological functions and create novel molecules. The discovery is part of the growing field of synthetic biology at the University of Bristol.
A new longitudinal study found that teens whose parents exerted more psychological control at age 13 had problems establishing friendships and romantic relationships with balanced closeness and independence. The study suggests that parents' use of psychological control can hinder teens' development of autonomy in relationships.
Researchers at Duke University have discovered a key gene that regulates the immune system's transition from high alert to recovery after an infection. The finding, published in PLOS Genetics, highlights the importance of cellular homeostasis in repairing tissue damage and eliminating bacterial toxins.
The study found that over-the-scope clip (OTSC) placement is a safe and effective therapy for closing gastrointestinal (GI) defects. Clinical success rates ranged from 90% for perforations to 73% for leaks, with successful closure of fistulae being less than half the patients.
A study by Penn State researchers found that subjective screening questions used in adolescent hearing screenings are unreliable and miss high-frequency hearing loss. Objective hearing tests were more effective, but refining them is necessary to accurately identify teenagers at risk for hearing loss.