Tropical Storm Kammuri is intensifying as it moves north-northwest through warm sea temperatures, expected to become a typhoon by Sept 27. The Suomi NPP satellite captured visible images of the storm's improving circulation and strong thunderstorms.
Researchers at Henry Ford Hospital found 40% of thyroidectomy patients to be vitamin D deficient prior to surgery. Vitamin D supplementation may improve surgical outcomes and shorten hospital stays for these patients. The study highlights the importance of routine vitamin D level checks in thyroid surgery patients.
Researchers at Brigham and Women's Hospital identified a link between BET bromodomain-containing proteins and atherosclerosis. By inhibiting these proteins, they found significant decreases in inflammation and atherosclerosis in pre-clinical models.
A large study has pinpointed synapse genes with major roles in severe childhood epilepsies, providing a new target for treatment strategies. The research identified 429 de novo mutations, including strong evidence for novel genes involved in synapse function.
Researchers at Princeton University have overcome a major challenge in predicting material properties by accurately calculating the lattice energy of benzene to sub-kilojoule/mol accuracy. This breakthrough enables polymorphism to be resolved, a crucial step towards understanding material behavior and development of new materials.
Researchers develop genetic 'instruction set' that creates broadly neutralizing antibodies to target hepatitis C virus. In mice, the treatment prevented infection and eradicated existing infections, offering potential for affordable treatment.
Researchers have established a crucial relationship between Natural Killer T (NKT) cells and B cells in the body's natural defense mechanisms. The study found that altered lipid compositions on autoimmune B cells lead to over-activation of NKT cells, causing their depletion. Removing a specific lipid-presenting molecule from B cells re...
Scientists at EPFL have created a method to convert sunlight into hydrogen using perovskite solar cells and nickel-iron catalysts, achieving an impressive 12.3% efficiency rate. This innovative approach eliminates the need for rare-earth metals in producing usable hydrogen fuel, paving the way for efficient energy storage and conversion.
A new review by UT Southwestern Medical Center surgeons found gastric bypass surgery to be more effective than banding for long-term weight loss (66% vs. 45%) and controlling type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol levels. Long-term complication rates also favored gastric bypass.
A new study from Lund University reveals that both the cerebral cortex and other levels in the brain play a greater role in processing touch than previously thought, with a larger proportion of brain structures involved.
Researchers at USC Keck Medicine have discovered a dual purpose of the cancer drug decitabine in regulating gene expression. The study found that the drug not only reactivated tumor suppressor genes but also down-regulated overexpressed oncogenes, which are responsible for cancer progression. This new mechanism may provide additional t...
Researchers at Carnegie Institution use high pressure to engineer gallium arsenide, a promising semiconductor material for solar cells. The study found that applying pressure can widen the 'band gap' and induce metallic electronic properties in two different crystalline structures of GaAs.
Researchers analyzed genetic information from 356 patients and identified novel causes for severe childhood epilepsies. Strong evidence was found for additional novel genes involved in synapse function, which may help address underlying disease mechanisms and improve treatment options.
A study of over 12,000 Finns found that women generally prefer same-aged or slightly older male partners, while men tend to be interested in women in their mid-20s due to fertility. This evolutionary difference may reflect women's greater control over mating choices and the resulting selection pressures.
Children with ADHD exhibit impaired brain response to angry facial expressions, whereas typically developing children show a significant hemodynamic response in both happy and angry expressions.
Cedars-Sinai is part of a 5-center consortium collecting and analyzing thousands of pieces of data to develop molecular signatures for motor neuron disorders. The goal is to create a 'cloud' of information that shows relationships between proteins, genes, and RNA in cells.
Researchers have identified a potential method to interrupt abnormal bone growth, commonly known as heterotopic ossification (HO), in burn patients. Using an anti-inflammatory treatment called apyrase, the study found that HO can be reduced by breaking down ATP, a primary energy source for cells.
A large study found that cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is more effective and can have lasting effects than medication for social anxiety disorder. CBT helps people challenge irrational fears and overcome avoidance of social situations.
Researchers found Streptococcus pneumoniae physically damages the heart, leaving tiny lesions that can permanently scar the myocardium. A candidate vaccine has been developed to protect against this damage.
Kidney transplant recipients infected with BK virus are more likely to develop donor-specific antibodies, which can lead to organ rejection. The study found a significant association between persistent BK infections and the development of these detrimental antibodies.
A study by University of Nottingham researchers found that higher levels of GABA in the supplementary motor area (SMA) help dampen down hyperactivity, allowing stronger signals to produce movement. This could lead to targeted approaches controlling tics using transcranial direct-current stimulation (tdcs).
A recent study published in PLOS ONE found that burn intervals may predict the rate of woody vegetation expansion along grassland streams, which could help maintain tallgrass prairies. The research also suggests that changes in atmospheric carbon dioxide levels and grazing patterns may contribute to woody plant encroachment.
A new study suggests a way to reduce cement's greenhouse-gas output by more than half, resulting in stronger and more durable concrete. By adjusting the calcium-to-silica ratio, the material can achieve twice the resistance of normal cement, with significant reductions in carbon emissions.
A new study describes a mechanism for how cancer cells take over one of the processes for telomere maintenance, allowing them to gain an infinite lifespan. The team found that cancer cells use either telomerase or alternative lengthening of telomeres (ALT) mechanisms to maintain their telomeres.
Researchers at Cancer Research UK found that blocking a chemical signal produced by macrophages can shrink melanoma tumors and make them easier to treat. This discovery suggests that targeting this 'survival signal' could lead to new ways to treat the disease, which is responsible for around 13,300 deaths in the UK each year.
Researchers at Oregon State University have developed a simple pulley mechanism that improves hand function in cadaver hands after surgery. The device reduces the force needed to close all four fingers by 45% and prevents slippage by 52%. This technology may offer new options for people who have lost hand function due to nerve trauma.
A York University psychology professor warns that perfectionism is a significant risk factor for suicide, linked to hopelessness and suicidal thoughts. The expert calls for clinicians to consider perfectionism as a separate factor in suicide risk assessment and intervention.
The Food Processing and Innovation Center (FPIC) will provide USDA/FDA certification and scale up services for private companies to develop new food products and production processes. MSU's Product Center expects the center to create over 300 jobs annually.
Researchers at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute have developed a novel compound that impedes the spread of multiple myeloma to bones in mice. By targeting the microenvironment, the compound alters the bone marrow environment, making it less hospitable to cancer cells, and slows disease progression and prolongs survival.
Researchers at the University of Southampton have developed a methodology to measure a region's 'health' by balancing social and environmental factors. The tool helps identify critical limits beyond which regions risk ecological and social collapse, providing crucial data for decision-makers.
A comprehensive family tree of meat-eating dinosaurs reveals the gradual emergence of bird-like features, such as feathers and wishbones. The study supports a theory that sudden evolutionary changes led to an explosion in avian diversity, resulting in thousands of species today.
Researchers at Whitehead Institute have discovered a trio of poorly understood growth regulators called the Sestrins that play a crucial role in regulating mTORC1 signaling. The study found that the Sestrins work cooperatively to inhibit mTORC1 signaling by interacting with GATOR2, suggesting new potential targets for drug development.
A simple blood test could be used to identify patients at risk of cancer due to high levels of calcium in the blood. Researchers found that in men, even mild hypercalcaemia conferred a risk of cancer in one year of 11.5%, while in women, the corresponding figure was 4.1%. The study suggests that hyperparathyroidism may be responsible f...
Researchers found that a synthetic derivative of vitamin D can collapse the barrier of cells shielding pancreatic tumors, making them more susceptible to therapeutic drugs. Human trials are underway for pancreatic cancer, and the findings may have implications for other tough-to-treat tumors.
A study published in Neuron found that neurons in the medial temporal lobe respond more strongly to blended faces when a subject recognizes the face as belonging to one person. The results suggest that conscious recognition plays a crucial role in whether neurons fire, rather than the raw visual stimulus.
Researchers at the University of Michigan have extended the lifetime of blue organic light emitting diodes by a factor of 10, improving OLED efficiencies for smartphones and large-screen TVs. The new design spreads out light-producing energy to prevent damaging synergy, resulting in a tenfold increase in lifetime.
Researchers have discovered a surprisingly diverse family of antibodies that can broadly neutralize different strains of HIV, providing new options for vaccine design. The findings offer clues on how to elicit high levels of these antibodies in people.
A UT Arlington professor will use a $400,000 CAREER grant to team with Teach for America and create a geophysics-based curriculum for secondary school teachers. The project aims to improve scientists' preparation and increase predictability of hazards associated with future earthquake events.
A study identifies dense natural gas field developments, highways, and fencing as threats to the pronghorn's migration in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem. The research found that migrating pronghorn avoid high-quality forage on both sides of highways with bottlenecks, highlighting the need for wildlife-friendly infrastructure.
A new study found that global sea levels rose at rates of up to 5.5 meters per century at the end of each of the last five ice-age cycles. The research provides a detailed record of sea-level variability over 500,000 years.
Researchers found that caterpillars of fall armyworm and two other Spodoptera species deploy a gut enzyme to attach a sugar to the toxic free DIMBOA, rendering it non-reactive to plant enzyme. This detoxification strategy explains the success of these pest insects in overcoming maize defenses.
The Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation is partnering with the Population Council on a five-year USAID-funded project to conduct operational HIV research. The Supporting Operational AIDS Research (SOAR) project will produce high-quality evidence to guide HIV prevention, care, and treatment programs worldwide.
Researchers develop new single-photon detection strategies with high accuracy enhancements, enabling precise timing resolution and fast reset times. New technologies improve space missions and quantum optics, advancing the field of single-photon devices.
Researchers at Duke University Medical Center found that coaching patients with COPD to manage stress and practice relaxation can improve their physical symptoms, quality of life, and reduce depression and anxiety.
NASA's GOES-West satellite captured Tropical Storm Rachel, the 18th tropical depression of the Eastern Pacific. The storm took an oval shape due to wind shear, indicating a disturbance in its circulation. Forecasters predict strengthening over the next couple of days before weakening into a depression.
Researchers discovered a turmeric compound, ar-turmerone, promotes stem cell proliferation and differentiation in the brain, suggesting its potential as a future drug candidate for treating stroke and Alzheimer's disease. The study found that ar-turmerone increased neural stem cell proliferation by up to 80% without affecting cell death.
A Michigan State University study finds that annual incidence rates of alcohol use disorders vary significantly among different Hispanic subgroups, including Mexican-Americans, Puerto Ricans, and Cuban-Americans. The research highlights the importance of developing culturally specific preventive measures to address these disparities.
Researchers found that the protein BRD4 plays a crucial role in regulating stem cell identity, holding promise for regenerating tissues and organs. The study suggests that inhibiting BRD4 could be used to reprogram stem cells into specific cell types, such as neurons.
Neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) affect 14-15% of cases in Bolivia, Ecuador, Nicaragua, and Venezuela, despite the countries' small population. The US could work with these countries to implement disease control programs and develop lifesaving vaccines through joint efforts.
Researchers from Boston University School of Medicine advocate for standardized assessment tools and evidence-based treatment choices for infants with neonatal abstinence syndrome. Nonpharmacologic interventions like breastfeeding may also help decrease NAS symptoms.
The university will focus on athletes participating in various sports, including football, soccer, and lacrosse, and receive comprehensive preseason evaluations for concussion. The study aims to inform a comprehensive understanding of sport-related concussion and traumatic brain injury.
Researchers at Duke University found that controlled grazing by goats can reduce phragmites stem density by half in three weeks. The approach also restores native plant species diversity and function, offering a sustainable alternative to chemical herbicides.
Fecal microbiota transplantation has been proven to be a safe and highly effective treatment for recurrent C. difficile infections, eradicating bacteria in around 90% of cases with good safety profiles. The technique is now officially recognized as an effective treatment for this difficult-to-treat infection.
Researchers identified a compound called dequalinium chloride (DECA) that can prevent a metabolic enzyme from going to the wrong location within a cell. This prevents primary hyperoxaluria 1 (PH1), a rare and deadly genetic kidney disease, by ensuring the enzyme goes to its proper destination.
Researchers have discovered a crucial role of electronic and geometric effects in reducing carbon dioxide using gold-copper bimetallic nanoparticles. This breakthrough could lead to unprecedented improvements in electrochemical carbon dioxide reduction.
A new study has shown that the water found on Earth originated before the Sun formed, suggesting that many exoplanets may also have access to abundant water. This discovery has important implications for the potential for life elsewhere in the galaxy.
Brazilian researchers have discovered a new genus and species of freshwater flatworm that is exclusively found in caves, shedding light on the region's unique biodiversity. The species, Hausera hauseri, is believed to be an oceanic relict, originating from marine environments.
Researchers tested a stem cell transplant approach on infected rhesus macaques, finding that it failed to eliminate the HIV-like virus and its reservoirs. The study's results suggest that myeloablative total body irradiation can decrease viral reservoirs in blood cells, but may not be sufficient for a cure.
In unpredictable situations, rats abandon past experience for random choices, controlled by the anterior cingulate cortex. This finding may have implications for human disorders like depression, where ordinary decision-making is ineffective.
Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh have discovered a novel oxide-based magnetism that follows electrical commands, paving the way for spin-based computing. This breakthrough could lead to ultrahigh density storage and computing architectures by combining magnetic materials with semiconductors.
A study published in Current Biology found that individuals with Tourette syndrome have elevated concentrations of GABA in a specific brain region, which may lead to improved motor control. This increase in GABA levels could provide new targets for non-drug therapies, such as brain stimulation, to help manage symptoms.
Researchers at Howard Hughes Medical Institute's Janelia Research Campus found that the brain can temporarily disconnect past experiences from decision-making circuits, triggering random behavior. The team manipulated a stress hormone called norepinephrine to switch between random and strategic modes.
Researchers at CIFAR have developed a method to compress quantum information into fewer qubits while preserving its content. This breakthrough has significant implications for efficient quantum computing and communication.
The NIH/NCCAM initiative aims to enhance options for managing pain and associated problems in US military personnel, veterans, and their families. The research will focus on nondrug approaches to address chronic pain, PTSD, drug abuse, and sleep issues.
Researchers have discovered a new mechanism for inhibiting the immunoproteasome, a protein complex involved in autoimmune disorders such as rheumatism and multiple sclerosis. The found mechanism involves a novel compound that selectively targets and deactivates the immunoproteasome without affecting other proteasomes.
Researchers have identified a protein receptor that activates during illness, producing a sugary substance to encourage the growth of protective bacteria and create a healthy microbiota in the gut. This discovery has implications for treating inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and vulnerable patients.
A team led by Nina Mahmoudian has created a tabletop model of a robot team that can bring power to places in need. The robots can link up power cords and batteries to light or set flags, operating independently to choose the shortest path and avoid obstacles.
A team of scientists found that much of Earth's water originated as ices in interstellar space, predating the Sun's birth. This discovery has implications for the potential emergence of life elsewhere in the universe.
A recent Finnish study found that patients with cryptogenic strokes are more likely to have an enlarged left atrial appendage, suggesting a possible independent risk factor. The research suggests that this condition may be responsible for up to half of all cryptogenic strokes.
A new study reveals that shorebird species employ distinct strategies to cope with raptor predation. Early-migrating species cut short their breeding seasons to minimize risk, while later-migrators do not need to shorten theirs. This complex decision process allows shorebirds to optimize their survival and reproductive success.
A new scientific review from UC Davis reports that genetically engineered feed has no impact on animal health and nutrition. The review analyzed nearly 30 years of studies involving over 100 billion animals, finding no differences in the nutritional makeup of meat, milk, or other food products derived from GMO-fed animals.
A study by CTFS-ForestGEO reveals global change effects on forests in 24 countries with 59 monitored sites. Forests have warmed by over 1 degree F and experienced up to 30 percent changes in precipitation.
Researchers found that exercise training induces changes in skeletal muscle that prevent the accumulation of a substance called kynurenine, which is associated with depressive behavior. In contrast, genetically modified mice with well-trained muscle characteristics showed no depressive symptoms despite being exposed to stress.
The IU-Regenstrief CHICA system significantly increased the number of children screened for developmental delay at ages 9, 18, and 30 months. The system also improved developmental delay surveillance by eliciting concerns from parents during visits.
The Gerontological Society of America and New America Media have selected 19 journalists to cover aging issues, including elder abuse, financial security, and mental health. The fellows will convene during the GSA's Annual Scientific Meeting and develop major aging-focused stories or series.
Research identifies two genes, FOXC1 and PITX2, that cause cerebral small vessel disease, a condition increasing stroke risk up to tenfold. Mutations lead to impaired vascular stability, ultimately resulting in long-term stroke risk.
Two recent studies by University Hospitals Seidman Cancer Center have identified potential new treatments for small cell lung cancer, including a link between the RET mutation and sensitivity to targeted therapies.
Researchers found that taller individuals are less likely to develop esophageal cancer and its precursor, Barrett's esophagus. The study, which included data from 1,000 cases of esophageal cancer and twice as many cases of Barrett's esophagus, consistently demonstrated an inverse association between height and these conditions.
Researchers found that long-term yoga and meditation practitioners can learn to control a computer with their minds faster and better than inexperienced participants. The study could lead to new treatments for people paralyzed or with neurodegenerative diseases.
Experts at LSTM used a novel modelling approach to project the effects of new diagnostic methods and algorithms for TB in Tanzania. The integrated model compared the costs and effectiveness of different diagnostic options, identifying Xpert MTB/RIF as a cost-effective option with the potential to reduce the national burden of TB.
Researchers at UMass Amherst and other biologists investigate how bats sense their environment using advanced imaging techniques and molecular biology. The study aims to reveal the genetic, developmental, and anatomical basis of natural selection for sensory structures in mammals.
A multi-institutional team will sequence total genomic DNA from 10,000 or more ethnically diverse individuals to identify genetic variants associated with schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. The Genomic Psychiatry Cohort at Keck School of Medicine of USC comprises over 37,000 participants.
A new discovery of thousands of Stone Age tools has provided a major insight into human innovation 325,000 years ago. Researchers found that Levallois technology already existed in Armenia between 325,000 and 335,000 years ago, suggesting local populations developed it independently.
Researchers have successfully delivered antibody mimics into cells using a disarmed version of anthrax toxin, offering a potential new approach for treating various diseases. The development demonstrates the first effective delivery of antibodies into cells, which could lead to novel drug treatments.
A new scientific review of genetically engineered feeds in livestock diets concludes that feeding these crops has no impact on the health or productivity of animals. The review examines nearly 30 years worth of data from over 100 billion animals, revealing comparable performance and health between GE-fed and non-GE-fed animals.
Researchers at Carnegie Institution successfully produce ultra-thin diamond nanothreads, exhibiting superior strength and stiffness compared to existing nanotubes and polymer fibers. The discovery has significant potential for various applications, including advanced materials and space technology.
Purdue researchers have discovered the structure of the enzyme responsible for producing cellulose, a key breakthrough in understanding plant cell wall composition. The findings could lead to improved methods for breaking down plant materials and creating sustainable biofuels.
Researchers found that environmental filtering is the main driver of plant diversity variation along resource gradients in ancient dunes. The study used a chronosequence of soils to test alternative theories and provided new insights into biodiversity.
Health policy academics and clinicians warn of potential risks of new .health internet domain, citing lack of transparency and inadequate stakeholder participation. They recommend an immediate moratorium and the formation of an expert working panel to discuss governance and ensure universal access to quality health information online.
NOAA/NASA's Suomi NPP satellite provides critical information for aviators about volcanic hazards, enabling early warnings and reducing costly flight diversions. The satellite's VIIRS instrument detects thermal signatures and clouds associated with volcanic activity.
A pilot study using emotional videos has led to a significant increase in CPAP machine usage among patients with sleep apnea, with some users reporting up to 2 hours of additional therapy per night. The approach, which uses personalized videos to create a sense of urgency, resulted in sustained improvement after three months.
A mass dog vaccination program can stop agonizing rabies deaths worldwide by targeting the virus's primary source: dogs. By vaccinating 70% of dogs in high-risk areas, transmission from dogs to humans can be broken, leading to a significant decline in human cases.
A new high-throughput cell-sorting method developed by Yi Zuo can separate 10 billion bacterial cells in just 30 minutes. The method uses surface free energy to sort cells, which could have direct applications for studying bacterial cells, microalgae, and other microbial samples.
Scientists engineered a mouse model equipped with the CRISPR-Cas9 system to study disease mechanisms and inform drug discovery. The model allows researchers to easily perturb multiple genes in vivo, enabling rapid screening of gene functions implicated in diseases.
A 325,000-year-old site in Armenia challenges old assumptions about human technological development by revealing the simultaneous use of two distinct technologies: biface and Levallois. The discovery highlights local innovation and flexibility rather than population expansion, suggesting that humans developed Levallois technology out o...
Researchers from Max Planck Institute and Cornell University detect iso-propyl cyanide, a branched carbon molecule, in a giant gas cloud called Sagittarius B2. The discovery opens a new frontier in the complexity of molecules found in regions of star formation.
Patients who lost more than 100 pounds had the highest risk of complications from later surgical procedures to reshape their bodies. Nutrition plays a crucial role in skin healing and collagen production after bariatric surgery.