The researchers created a new standard for large-scale DNA origami structures, enabling applications in biomedical research and nanoelectronics. The breakthrough involved developing a custom scaffold strand and cost-effective method for synthesizing staple strands.
A study finds that older adults, women, and less educated individuals have more concerns about kidney transplantation. These concerns can lead to lower chances of getting listed for a transplant. The study aims to address these barriers to improve access to transplantation.
A new protocol converts stem cells into reliable, insulin-producing cells in about six weeks, a significant improvement over previous methods. The breakthrough could lead to an unlimited supply of insulin-producing cells to treat patients with Type 1 diabetes.
Researchers at MIT and Manchester University have created a new material that allows electrons to move at controllable angles, resulting in more efficient computing. This breakthrough enables the development of transistors with lower energy consumption.
A new study found that in India's human-dominated landscapes, leopards primarily feed on domestic dogs (39%) and domestic cats (15%), rather than livestock. This is due to the relative accessibility of dogs, which are often allowed to roam freely.
New observations from NASA's Venus Express mission show giant holes in Venus' ionosphere, suggesting a more complex magnetic environment. The findings provide additional clues to understanding Venus' atmosphere and its interactions with the solar wind.
Researchers at UCSF identified an antibiotic, lactocillin, produced by a common vaginal bacterial species that kills certain pathogens while sparing others. The study suggests that naturally occurring drugs made by our own microbes may play an important role in maintaining human health.
Researchers find Puerto Rican people who inject drugs have higher HIV risk and prevalence than other Latino groups, with lower availability of prevention tools and treatment programs. The study recommends a coordinated, multi-region effort to address the disparity and bring an end to the HIV/AIDS epidemic.
Researchers at ETH Zurich conduct experiment to test salt's effect on building materials. They find supersaturation of salt solution is key factor in damage, with temperature playing a role. The study's findings could help conservators and restorers predict and mitigate salt damage.
Researchers developed an adaptive optics microscope that can focus laser light through even the murkiest surroundings without a guide star. This innovation resolves points less than one thousandth of a millimeter across, enabling sharper images in biology and medicine.
A new approach estimates CO2 emissions from fossil fuels at a global scale, providing detailed information for policy-makers. The 'Fossil Fuel Data Assimilation System' (FFDAS) uses satellite feeds, national fuel accounts, and power plant data to create high-resolution planetary maps.
Orlin D. Velev, a leading colloid scientist, received the prestigious Colloid and Polymer Science Lecture award for his groundbreaking research in particle assembly, nanostructures, and biosensors. The award recognizes his innovative work in fostering international scientific exchange in the field of colloid and polymer science.
Children who experience bullying between ages 8-10 are at increased risk of sleep-related problems like nightmares and night terrors by age 12. The University of Warwick study suggests stress may play a key role in the association.
Tropical Depression 6 formed in the Eastern Atlantic Ocean with a well-defined circulation and organized convective banding near the center. The depression has maximum sustained winds near 35 mph and is expected to move northwest or west-northwest over the next couple of days.
Researchers have discovered Ixodes scapularis ticks in North Dakota, which vector Lyme disease, and are concerned about the potential spread of other tick-borne diseases. The ticks were found in six counties with established populations, raising concerns for public health.
A first-of-its-kind study on nicotine addiction found that nicotine withdrawal similarly reduced reward responsiveness in human smokers and nicotine-treated rats, particularly those with a history of depression. The study's findings have implications for developing new treatments to aid smokers in quitting.
Researchers will deploy hundreds of robotic floats to study the Southern Ocean's carbon and heat uptake, as well as its importance in ocean ecosystems. The project aims to improve climate models and provide insights into the region's global significance.
The researchers used acoustic waves to communicate with an artificial atom, demonstrating phenomena from quantum physics. The study could potentially harness quantum physics to create faster computers by controlling and studying quantum electrical circuits.
Using human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs), researchers discovered that schizophrenia patients' hiPSC-derived neurons release more neurotransmitters, including dopamine. This finding could lead to a better understanding of brain disorders and the development of new therapeutic strategies.
A study published by The Endocrine Society found that diverse gut bacteria are associated with a favorable ratio of estrogen metabolites, which may reduce the risk of breast cancer. Researchers analyzed fecal and urine samples from 60 postmenopausal women and discovered a relationship between bacterial diversity and estrogen levels.
Researchers have developed a graphene-based paint with exceptional barrier properties, making it suitable for various industrial applications. The coating can provide complete impermeability to gases, liquids, and strong chemicals, rendering it ideal for protecting equipment in harsh environments.
Researchers have discovered a pathological process that affects both mice and humans with type 2 diabetes. By analyzing genome, phenome, proteome, and metabolome data, they identified a specific gene on chromosome 2 that plays a crucial role in the development of the disease.
A new study highlights the need for better implementation of evolutionary approaches to address societal challenges. The research suggests that applying evolutionary biology can help reduce the escalating problem of antibiotic resistance and chronic disease costs.
Researchers have found that non-coding RNA studies can improve crop resistance to pathogens and pests, reducing the need for chemical pesticides. This new approach uses small RNAs to repress the expression of target genes, promoting healthier plant development and improved nutritional value.
Researchers from ETH Zurich have discovered a new form of innate immune defence against certain RNA viruses, including those causing hepatitis C, yellow fever, and dengue fever. The NMD system, which is a quality control mechanism in cells, also serves as a general virus restriction mechanism in plants.
The Stanford-led study synthesizes 165 academic studies and government databases to assess the environmental costs and benefits of fracking. Fracking's influence on local air pollution, earthquakes, and supplies of clean water is also examined. The study finds that oil and gas extraction can reduce water consumption compared to coal po...
A team of astronomers led by Gastón Folatelli at the Kavli IPMU, University of Tokyo, has found evidence of a hot binary companion star to a yellow supergiant star, which had become a bright supernova. The discovery provides the last link in a chain of observations supporting the team's theoretical picture for this supernova.
A high-protein diet was associated with lower systolic and diastolic blood pressure levels in healthy adults. Consuming more protein also led to lower long-term risks for high blood pressure. The benefits were evident in both overweight and normal-weight individuals.
A pilot observational study found proactive monitoring and dose adjustment of infliximab resulted in fewer disease recurrences and infusion reactions. The authors propose routine monitoring of IFX concentrations and adjusting doses based on levels for patients with IBD.
A recent slowdown in global warming is attributed to a natural cooling phase known as multidecadal variability (MDV) and a downturn of the secular warming trend. Scientists analyzed surface temperature data records to identify this hiatus period, which coincides with natural cooling phases.
A new study finds that diversified farming systems retain more evolutionary history than intensive agriculture, suggesting a strategy for conserving biodiversity. This is encouraging news as human activities drive half of known life to extinction.
A simple, disposable testing device analyzes a single droplet of blood to diagnose anemia, with results available in about 60 seconds. The device has shown promising sensitivity and specificity compared to conventional hematology analyzers.
Researchers found cartilage plays an active role in rheumatoid arthritis destruction and remodelling, contradicting the long-held assumption that it's a passive victim of inflammation. Cartilage produces enzymes driving tissue degradation and releases signaling molecules triggering an autoimmune response.
Researchers at the University of Warwick found that a protein called Nrf2 continually moves in and out of human cells' nuclei to sense cell health. The team successfully increased Nrf2's movement by introducing health-beneficial substances, such as broccoli-derived sulforaphane and quercetin from onions, into food supplements.
Researchers found that antibiotic treatment before vaccination impaired antibody responses in mice, while gut bacteria played a crucial role. The study's findings suggest that the microbiome could be harnessed to modulate vaccine efficacy and may explain variations in vaccine responses globally.
Physics researcher Alice Bean will work with the US Department of State's Office of Faith Based and Community Initiatives to communicate global climate change policy to critical faith-based audiences. She aims to foster communication, respect, and alliance between scientists and religious communities to combat climate change.
A new app-device can quickly and accurately measure two key signs of sepsis, a leading cause of death worldwide. The device has the potential to save over 6 million children in developing countries, where sepsis accounts for 60-80% of all deaths.
A Finnish study found that higher levels of physical activity during recess are associated with better reading skills, while participation in organized sports is linked to higher arithmetic test scores. Boys who spent more time engaging in activities like reading and writing on their leisure time also showed better reading skills.
The 2014 Science in Society Award winners, sponsored by the National Association of Science Writers, include Sheri Fink for her book 'Five Days At Memorial' and Amy Harmon for her article 'A Race to Save the Orange'. The awards recognize critical reporting about the sciences and their impact on society.
Researchers found that the larvae of G. permixtana feed on Sagittaria trifolia, a new host plant in northern Iran, reducing arrowhead weed germination potential and providing an alternative solution for biological control.
A study by Penn State researchers found that one-third of men in academic science are willing to reduce their career intensity to focus on family. The majority of men studied desired more involvement at home but faced challenges balancing work and family life due to long hours and intense devotion to their field.
Recent studies have uncovered the mechanisms that allow bacteria to battle fluoride toxicity. Researchers found that bacteria use two types of proteins, fluoride/hydrogen antiporters and passive channels like Fluc, to rid themselves of unwanted fluoride. This knowledge could lead to new treatments for harmful bacterial diseases.
Researchers found that excess glucose enters cells via inflammatory pathways, sparking escalating inflammation and damaging blood vessels. Lifestyle changes like exercise and weight reduction can reduce both blood sugar and inflammation.
Researchers found that malaria parasites in birds react to mosquito bites, triggering increased parasite loads and higher infection rates of mosquitoes. This 'plastic' transmission strategy may improve malaria control by better understanding its ecological determinants.
Researchers at Dartmouth's Geisel School of Medicine have found that the genetic mutation BRAFV600E promotes melanoma tumor growth by modifying normal cells around the tumor. Targeting this mutation with Vemurafenib reduces aggressive growth and suggests new treatment options for melanoma therapy.
A UCI study reveals that brain inflammation can severely impact the ability to retrieve complex memories, but not simpler ones. Researchers found that immune system signaling molecules called cytokines disrupt communication among neurons in the hippocampus, leading to impaired discrimination memory.
Researchers at Worcester Polytechnic Institute are developing a novel way to manufacture metal-ceramic composites for use in vehicles. The new technique involves the formation of nano-reinforcements directly within the molten metal, resulting in less expensive and more flexible materials.
Research published in Diabetologia finds that age at diagnosis is not linked to microvascular complications, while longer diabetes duration increases the risk in younger patients. Effective prevention requires vigilance across all age groups, with intensified surveillance for macrovascular complications in older populations.
A new report confirms the American peregrine falcons' recovery trajectory is within predicted trends, with volunteer-generated data supporting population viability analysis. The study highlights the importance of considering geographic group health and behavior for threatened species, such as sea turtles and grizzlies.
Researchers from Montefiore and Einstein present findings on radiation therapy duration, dosing recommendations, and predictive indicators for clinical outcomes in locally-advanced cancers. The studies focus on improving personalized cancer care and overcoming treatment barriers.
A new Penn Medicine study reveals that certain patient characteristics, such as being male, married, and younger than 65, may be associated with shorter hospice stays. The study also found that patients with blood cancers and Medicaid or uninsured status tend to enroll in hospice earlier in their illness
Researchers at Caltech have discovered a seesaw-like circuit in the mouse amygdala that controls whether animals engage in social or repetitive asocial behaviors. The discovery, led by Weizhe Hong, may have implications for understanding neural circuit dysfunctions underlying autism in humans.
Researchers at Nova Southeastern University will investigate biological indicators in men with myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS). The four-year study aims to develop more effective treatment plans using existing drugs.
Researchers found nanodiamonds and high-temperature materials in Europe, North America, and South America, indicating a major extraterrestrial impact event. The discovery supports the cosmic impact hypothesis for the Younger Dryas period's sudden climate change.
Research in mice demonstrates that commensal bacteria enhance the immune system's ability to kill Klebsiella pneumoniae by boosting alveolar macrophage production of reactive oxygen molecules. The study suggests that signals from these beneficial bacteria play an active role in regulating immune function, even in the absence of infection.
Caltech materials scientist Julia Greer and her colleagues have developed a method to create ceramics with unusual properties, such as being strong, lightweight, and nonbreakable. The researchers used direct laser writing to produce three-dimensional nanolattices that can recover their original shape after deformation.
Researchers found a significant racial disparity in breast reconstruction after mastectomy, with African American women receiving 55% fewer reconstructions. Hospitals' characteristics, such as location and volume of breast cancer surgeries, also impact reconstruction rates.
A study found that primary care physicians struggle with providing genetics assessments due to insufficient knowledge and time limitations. The researchers emphasize the importance of practical guidelines, point-of-care tools, and tailored education to address these barriers.
A systematic review and meta-analysis found that combining basal insulin with a GLP-1 agonist resulted in improved blood sugar control, similar rates of hypoglycaemia, and greater weight loss compared to other anti-diabetic treatments. This combination therapy showed a 92% greater likelihood of achieving target blood sugar control.
Duke University researchers found that stressed cells slow down protein production, reshuffle their workload, and clean up misfolded proteins. This response mechanism could shed light on diseases caused by misfolded proteins.
A recent study published in Journal of Family Psychology found that favoritism in parenting is strongly associated with alcohol, cigarette, and drug use among teenage children in disengaged families. Children who perceive themselves as less favored are more likely to engage in substance abuse.
A University of Iowa study found that teenagers' brains are more sensitive to immediate rewards, leading to impulsive behavior. The researchers suggest limiting distractions to help teens develop impulse-control skills.
A new study from North Carolina State University found that childhood mentors have a lasting positive impact on career success. Mentees with mentors were more likely to find work early in their careers with greater intrinsic job rewards, such as authority and autonomy. These characteristics are associated with long-term career success.
The Wyss Institute is further developing its Soft Exosuit technology, a wearable robot designed to assist soldiers with heavy loads. The suit mimics the action of leg muscles and tendons when walking, providing small but careful assistance at joints without restricting movement.
The Spinosaurus, a massive Cretaceous-era predator, was found to have developed various aquatic adaptations, including small nostrils and giant teeth suited for catching fish. These findings indicate that Spinosaurus was the largest known predatory dinosaur, measuring over 9 feet longer than Tyrannosaurus rex.
Researchers at the University of Montana discovered each species' weapon is structurally adapted to its own functional demands of fighting. Horns are found to be stronger and stiffer when exposed to species-typical fighting styles, suggesting performance in battle played a crucial role in their diversification.
Scientists have discovered two new species of carabid beetles in the Ethiopian Highlands, Calathus juan and Calathus carballalae. These beetle species were found at high elevations and were named after their collaboration partners. The study was published in Annals of the Entomological Society of America.
Researchers found that neurons from schizophrenia patients secrete higher amounts of dopamine, norepinephrine, and epinephrine. This discovery offers a new insight into the chemical basis of schizophrenia, potentially leading to new drug targets and therapies.
UTSA has been awarded a $500,000 National Science Foundation grant to develop a security mechanism for cloud-based infrastructures. The goal is to provide users with comparable control over their virtual assets as they had on-premises.
A team of researchers used a neutral evolution model to simulate the distribution of marine bacteria cells. They found that microbes evolve faster than the ocean can disperse them, resulting in dynamic biogeographic patterns. This study sheds light on how ocean microbes may respond to global climate change.
Research finds associations between psychotic disorders and reduced cortical folding patterns in key brain regions, suggesting alterations in brain development early in life. The study's results also indicate a potential familial risk marker for psychotic illnesses.
The original northern boundary of Illinois was south of Chicago and Lake Michigan due to a proposed straight line from the southernmost tip of Lake Michigan to the Rock and Mississippi River confluence. This would have resulted in a smaller population and footprint for Illinois if it had been approved.
A new study reveals that gut microbes play a vital role in stimulating protective immune responses to the seasonal flu vaccine. Researchers found that mice with altered gut microbiota showed reduced antibody responses to vaccination, highlighting the importance of gut microbes in vaccine efficacy.
A study from the University of Kansas found that people can accurately detect personality traits through Facebook activity. However, recent changes to the social media site may be making it harder to do so, particularly with the introduction of algorithms that prioritize recent posts and limit views of friends' activities.
A new study from the University of Wisconsin-Madison finds that yogic breathing can effectively reduce symptoms of PTSD, including anxiety and hyperarousal. The practice has been shown to lower respiration rates and reduce PTSD symptoms in veterans.
Researchers have discovered a new way to run a quantum algorithm that could solve problems classically impossible, using simpler methods than previously thought. This breakthrough has increased the likelihood of demonstrating a quantum device beating a classical computer, which would be a major milestone.
Researchers found that parts of the brain continue to make word classifications even while asleep. This ability may help explain everyday experiences like being sensitive to one's name or alarm clock sounds during sleep. The study also suggests unconscious processing isn't limited by task complexity but rather by automation.
Engineers at Harvard University have created an untethered soft robot, measuring over half a meter in length, which can carry up to 7.5 pounds on its back. The robot, designed using composite silicone rubber and Kevlar fabric, has withstood extreme conditions such as snow, water, flames, and being run over by a car.
Simulations by NASA researchers found that atmospheric gases like ozone, oxygen, and methane can be produced non-biologically, challenging the detection of life. However, combinations of these gases remain strong biosignatures, suggesting their presence is likely linked to biological activity.
Scientists have discovered a unique biochemical connection between cell membranes and mitochondria, regulating cellular energy production. This finding has implications for understanding diseases linked to mitochondrial dysfunction, including cancer and neurodegenerative disorders.
Researchers found that hot Jupiters, large gas giants outside our solar system, can make their suns wobble due to gravitational influence. This phenomenon leads to chaotic spin-axis changes in the star, similar to weather and climate patterns.
A Dartmouth study reveals a new protein linkage pathway that may help explain the molecular mechanisms behind birth defects in older women. The research shows that immature egg cells create replacement linkages after DNA replication, essential for maintaining meiotic cohesion over time.
A pilot study found that mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) significantly reduced headache duration and disability in adults with migraines. MBSR participants also experienced increased mindfulness and self-efficacy, leading researchers to conclude that the intervention is a safe and feasible therapy for migraine sufferers.
Penn Medicine bioethicists emphasize the duty to provide humanitarian assistance, global justice, and ethical requirements to combat the Ebola outbreak. The experts also discuss the importance of randomized clinical trials in advancing research and ensuring fair benefits for communities affected by the disease.
The VALUE study reveals that only 13% of vascular testing facilities are IAC accredited, with significant regional variations in utilization. The study also highlights the importance of IAC accreditation in setting practice standards and ensuring quality performance.
Researchers analyzed case counts to find consistent high transmission rates, with Liberia and Sierra Leone reporting one to two new cases for every existing case. The study suggests that controlling the epidemic could be achieved by preventing more than half of secondary transmissions.
A new class of compounds has been shown to protect brain cells from damage caused by blast-mediated TBI. The compounds, called P7C3 series, block axon damage and preserve normal brain function, even when treatment is delayed until 24-36 hours after injury.
Researchers find that geographic isolation is more often due to bird movements across physical barriers, suggesting a generalizable explanation for speciation initiation. The study also highlights the importance of prolonged landscape stability and human alterations in killing the speciation process.
Scientists have pinpointed two new genetic target genes SUN1 and SUN2 that may lead to developing new treatments for Emery-Dreifuss muscular dystrophy, a devastating condition causing muscle wasting and stiffening. The discovery opens up new possibilities for patients with the disease, who currently have no effective treatment options.
A study by Harvard University scientists has identified a non-toxic way to target leukemia cells' metabolism without harming normal cells. This breakthrough could lead to new treatments for leukemia patients.
Research from University of British Columbia suggests dopamine plays a key role in guiding risky decisions. The study found that altering dopamine signals can impact decision-making, leading to more or less conservative choices.