Researchers at SISSA and Elettra Sincrotrone Trieste have used x-ray crystallography to demonstrate that the selectivity filter of ion channels is dynamic, not rigid. This discovery contributes to solving a long-standing debate among biophysicists and neurobiologists.
Two major wildfires are burning in California: the Lake Fire, which is 17,305 acres in size and has slowed its growth, and the smaller San Gorgonio Fire. The fires have forced the closure of hiking trails and caused air quality issues in surrounding areas.
Researchers found that scarlet macaws were persistently traded hundreds of miles north from Mesoamerica starting in the early 10th century, suggesting that social and political hierarchies may have emerged earlier than thought. The discovery changes our understanding of the development of hierarchy in Pueblo society.
A team of researchers from the University of Cambridge and the Babraham Institute has discovered that a naturally occurring modified DNA base, 5-formylcytosine (5fC), is stably incorporated in the DNA of many mammalian tissues. This rare 'extra' base may play a key role in regulating gene activity.
In a surprising co-existence, Ethiopian wolves have adapted to forage among grazing gelada monkey herds, capturing rodents more successfully. The study found that geladas consistently avoid aggressive dogs but flee great distances when encountering Ethiopian wolves, suggesting a non-threatening behavior between the two species.
Researchers analyzed size data for over 1,000 rodent populations to identify those that evolved into unusually large or small sizes. The study found that islands are home to more extreme cases of size variation, with rodents on islands weighing among the top or bottom 2.5 percent for their species.
Native wildflowers in California are losing species diversity after multiple years of drier winters, according to a study. Drought-intolerant species suffered the worst declines, foreshadowing larger-scale extinctions.
A study engineered a gut microbiome with low urease expression to alleviate hyperammonemia symptoms in mice. This approach reduced circulating ammonia levels and improved mortality rates in animals with liver disease.
New study reveals a decline in the use of third-generation cephalosporins, a broader-spectrum class of antibiotics, and an increase in narrow-spectrum antibiotics like ampicillin. The findings suggest that local dissemination efforts played a crucial role in adopting the new national guidelines.
Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center have identified two proteins responsible for initiating the labor process, which control genes for pulmonary surfactant components that promote labor. Surfactant is essential for normal breathing outside the womb. Understanding these molecular mechanisms may help prevent preterm birth.
Researchers followed 2,479 young adults for 25 years and found that those with elevated but normal-range blood pressure were more likely to experience cardiac dysfunction. Young adults can reduce the risk by managing high blood pressure through diet, exercise, and medication.
The American College of Cardiology seeks to expand cardio-oncology services to address the growing need for specialized care in cardiovascular health for cancer patients. Currently, many hospital training programs lack formal training or services in this area, and a nationwide survey reveals gaps in resources and best practices.
Researchers analyzed DNA from a 40,000-year-old jawbone from Romania and found that six to nine percent of the person's genome came from Neandertals. This shows that some of the first modern humans in Europe mixed with local Neandertals around this time.
A new study identifies risk factors for poor pregnancy outcomes in women with lupus, but also reveals that most pregnancies are uncomplicated. The research suggests that women with lupus who have mild disease and no underlying health issues can have a healthy pregnancy.
Two randomised controlled trials found patient-controlled analgesia (PCA) to be statistically and clinically superior for patients with non-traumatic abdominal pain, with users reporting lower total pain scores. However, results were more equivocal for patients with traumatic injury, leaving room for further investigation.
Research at the University of Rochester shows that our brains apply an algorithm to track objects, including baseballs, even when they move outside our visual field. This understanding can help hitters better anticipate a curveball's trajectory.
When safety-net agencies close, clients are often left 'lost in the system,' with delays in care and a loss of essential connections. Researchers recommend that agency leaders plan for sustainability and policymakers implement incremental changes to ensure vulnerable individuals can access necessary services.
The remnants of Tropical Depression Bill brought heavy rainfall to a large part of the US, from Texas to Washington D.C. before moving into the Atlantic Ocean. Rainfall totals varied by city, with some areas receiving over 4 inches of rain.
A recent study published in the Journal of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery found that statin therapy may reduce major complications after lung surgery. The study showed a significant reduction in postoperative complications, including pneumonia and deep vein thrombosis, but not in atrial fibrillation rates or inflammatory markers.
A small molecule agent PSMA-617 specifically attaches to prostate-specific membrane antigen on cancer cells, allowing for early detection of secondary tumors and monitoring response to therapy. This agent has shown promising results in PET scans and holds potential as a therapeutic option for hormone-resistant prostate carcinoma.
A review of 36 studies found a consistent relationship between cyberbullying and reports of depression among children and adolescents. The study also identified common forms of cyberbullying and coping strategies used by victims.
A new system developed by Joanna Aizenberg's lab uses phase separation to create dynamic designer polymers with self-relubrication and regulated anti-fouling behavior. The system can adapt to its surroundings and respond to fluid consumption, enabling responsive and long-lasting material applications.
Purdue University researchers have identified a key gene that controls soybean seed coat permeability, which could lead to improved crop varieties for southern and tropical regions. The discovery also offers potential applications for enhancing the nutritional value of soybeans by modifying their calcium content.
Researchers at UC San Diego have designed and synthesized artificial cell membranes capable of sustained growth. The membranes mimic features of complex living organisms, adapting to environmental cues and supporting persistent phospholipid formation.
Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center identified a cell type that generates new heart muscle cells, which can divide and replenish damaged heart tissue. The discovery uses a new cell-tracing technique that may prove useful for regenerating diseased hearts and has implications for cellular turnover in other organs.
Researchers at Duke University developed a mathematical model of acetaminophen metabolism based on lab rat data, finding that glutamine may boost the body's ability to recover from overdose. The study suggests that adding glutamine alongside standard antidote N-acetylcysteine could prevent liver damage.
A new study reveals that captive black rhinos are at high risk for inflammation and insulin resistance, conditions commonly seen in humans. The finding suggests that the animals' diets, which often consist of high-quality food, may be too rich, contributing to these health problems.
Researchers have found that scarlet macaw remains in Chaco Canyon date back to between 775 and 875 years, suggesting social complexity began earlier than previously thought. This discovery challenges current understanding of Pueblo Bonito's development and raises questions about the origins and trade routes of these birds.
A new study found that the Laurentide ice sheet initially began shrinking through calving of icebergs before shifting into a regime where melting on the continent took precedence, leading to its demise. The shift in 'radiative forcing' prior to 9,000 years ago kicked deglaciation into overdrive.
The VA/DoD guidelines differ from the ACC/AHA guidelines in several aspects, including treatment targets and risk prediction tests. The guidelines also recommend a shared decision-making approach to determine medication benefits versus harms for each patient.
A study found that 86% of women with early-stage breast cancer in Ontario underwent imaging to detect metastatic cancer, despite international guidelines recommending against it. The use of advanced imaging increased and varied by geographic region and hospital type, highlighting a need for improved knowledge translation strategies.
Scientists used genetic analysis of otter droppings, known as spraint, to estimate the size of the population. They found around 20 otters living in a 35-square-kilometer area, with numbers fluctuating depending on pond yields.
Researchers found that nonphotosynthetic pigments could produce strong spectral signals detectable by powerful future telescopes. These organisms cover a significant portion of a distant planet's surface, producing reflectance signatures different from photosynthetic land vegetation like trees.
Researchers analyzed genetic data from butterflies and cabbage plants to understand the co-evolutionary dynamics. They found that new gene copies played a key role in this process, enabling plants to develop toxic compounds that deter insects.
Atrial fibrillation is a serious medical condition characterized by an irregular heart rate, which can lead to poor blood flow and increase the risk of strokes. The BRIDGE trial, sponsored by the NIH, found that forgoing bridging anticoagulation in patients with atrial fibrillation who need temporary interruption of warfarin for electi...
A team of geologists measured and simulated a complete seismic cycle at Isla Santa María, Chile, revealing a 10-20% permanent vertical uplift. The cycle was triggered by the 1835 earthquake, which caused an initial uplift of 2-3 meters.
A study at Oregon State University found that high-fat and high-sugar diets cause changes in gut bacteria related to cognitive function decline. The research suggests a link between the Western diet and alteration of the microbiome, affecting mental and physical function.
Children exposed to household smoke are more likely to have a wider waistline and higher BMI by age ten, according to researchers. This association is comparable in size to the impact of smoking during pregnancy.
Researchers have developed a prototype coating for wind turbine blades that mimics the intricate structure of an owl's wing, reducing noise production by up to 30dB. The coating, made of 3D-printed plastic, has shown promising results in wind tunnel tests, potentially leading to more efficient and quieter wind turbines.
The Mid-Atlantic Regional Council on the Ocean (MARCO) supports the Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council's approval of an amendment protecting deep sea corals. The areas proposed for designation encompass over 38,000 square miles and will safeguard these ecosystems' long-term health.
A study published in Addictive Behaviors found that cigarette prices and pictorial labels are effective in reducing smoking rates among women. Highly educated women were more responsive to price increases, while less educated women were more influenced by pictorial labels.
Researchers aim to teach robots to understand forces during object movement and react to changes, enabling human-robot collaboration. The goal is to develop robots that can work together with humans on tasks like lifting objects, such as tables.
Researchers at KIT have created a novel solar cell using metal-organic framework compounds, demonstrating high efficiency in producing charge carriers and mobility. The material's photophysical properties are attributed to the formation of indirect band gaps, playing a crucial role in photovoltaics.
New brain-imaging research has found that the cortex is thicker on average in youth with Down Syndrome than in typically developing youth, despite lower overall cortical volume. This finding may provide new insights into early onset Alzheimer's disease susceptibility in individuals with Down Syndrome.
A new study using disease-transmission models shows that silent transmission of poliovirus could continue for more than three years with no reported cases. To ensure eradication, aggressive surveillance and vaccination campaigns must continue in endemic countries after the last reported case.
The Mid-Atlantic Ocean Data Portal has launched new features to expand pathways for participation and collaboration. The platform now includes Ocean Stories, Map Groups, and enhanced organization tools, empowering stakeholders to share their perspectives and work together on ocean planning challenges.
Researchers found that women with below-average heart rate variability were more likely to experience difficulties with sexual arousal, highlighting the link between physiological and psychological factors in female sexuality. The study's findings could lead to the development of new treatments for female sexual dysfunction.
Danitza Nébor, a Jackson Laboratory postdoctoral associate, is driven by her personal connection to sickle-cell disease. She searches for genetic modifiers to reduce the severity of the disease in patients with two copies of the sickle-cell gene.
The National Nanotechnology Coordination Office (NNCO) has published a workshop report and launched a web portal on nanosensors, addressing challenges in sensor development and commercialization. The NSI Sensors web portal provides information on funding agencies, facilities, regulatory guidance, and standards.
A study by Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health found no evidence that warmer winters lead to reduced winter mortality rates. Instead, other seasonal factors such as lack of exercise and respiratory infections may drive winter excess mortality.
A study combining clinical assessment, genomic analysis, and electroencephalography identified specific gene combinations in autistic patients that distinguished them from those with intellectual disabilities. This integrated approach provides new prospects for diagnosis and understanding of autism's physiological mechanisms.
A new INFORMS journal study reveals that strong advertising and Research and Development can help protect firms from bankruptcy during unstable market conditions. The study found that brands are more effective at protecting firms when the market is stable, while patents are more effective in turbulent markets.
A new study reveals that Mycobacterium tuberculosis hijack protective hypoxic zones in bone marrow stem cells to hide and survive. The research found that these stem cells exhibit strong binding to pimonidazole, indicating hypoxia localization, and express a key gene involved in regulating oxygen levels.
A consortium of healthcare professionals, game developers, and oncology educators is developing intelligent 'games' to help cancer patients manage their illness through mobile phones. The iManageCancer project aims to provide psychological benefits, greater wellbeing, quality of life, and social support for young cancer patients.
A new drug discovery project, funded by a £3m Dementia Consortium, aims to target brain inflammation in Alzheimer's disease. The project will explore novel therapeutics to dampen the inflammatory response, which is believed to contribute to the disease's damage.
A randomized trial of daily oral HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) in men and transgender women who have sex with men found no link between Truvada use and depression. Half of participants reported clinically significant depression, highlighting the need for further research on PrEP's impact during vulnerable times.
A new article recommends laws to criminalise face recognition technology use on online images without consent, aiming to protect individual identity and autonomy. The current lack of regulations poses significant threats to privacy in the digital environment.
A new study found that a web-based tutorial can increase patients' understanding of knee surgery and enhance their experience. Patients who completed the tutorial reported higher levels of knowledge, satisfaction, and an improved surgical experience.
A clinical trial funded by the NCI will test the effectiveness of SmartQuit, a smoking-cessation smartphone app developed by Dr. Jonathan Bricker, against traditional quit-smoking programs. The trial, which involves over 1,600 adult smokers, aims to determine whether an ACT-based app is effective for smoking cessation.
Professor Andreas Peter Ruediger, a leading expert in nanophotonics and nanoelectronics, has been awarded an honorary Fellowship of the Munich University of Applied Sciences (MUAS). He will collaborate with the university on a research project exploring multifunctional materials for new applications in nanotechnology.