A £1 million project at the University of Huddersfield will provide scientific data for safe and reliable nuclear reactors. The research will investigate radiation damage on materials, addressing the UK's shortage of nuclear scientists.
Researchers at University of Gothenburg tested portable stimulator on 10 Swedish Parkinson's patients, showing improved balance and combined symptoms. The active noise stimulation improved the patients' balance and symptoms when unmedicated, and may lead to new treatment in the next five years.
A new imaging system has been invented to guide cancer surgery, allowing surgeons to detect malignant tissue in real-time. The system uses a fluorescent dye that localizes in tumors and a handheld laser to visualize tumor boundaries, reducing the risk of cancer recurrence.
Researchers propose a novel approach to cancer therapy by subtly hardening cancer cells to prevent metastasis. They've identified a compound, 4-HAP, that shows promise in fighting pancreatic cancer.
A recent study published in JAMA found that hospitalization for pneumonia significantly raises the risk of developing cardiovascular disease. This is especially true for older adults and those with pre-existing cardiovascular risk factors such as diabetes, smoking, and high cholesterol.
The American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) announces its cancer Advance of the Year, four new treatments improving outlook for patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). New therapies include immunotherapy drugs and molecularly targeted drugs offering more effective treatment options.
A preliminary study found that nonmyeloablative hematopoietic stem cell transplantation improved measures of disability and quality of life in relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis patients. The treatment also showed significant improvement in physical function, cognitive function, and a reduction in brain lesions associated with MS.
Researchers used the mortality-to-incidence ratio to identify global disparities in colorectal cancer screening and treatment. Countries with lower-than-expected ratios have strong national health systems with formal screening programs.
A new study reveals that the oldest primate ancestors lived in trees, accessing food sources unavailable to ground-dwelling species. The discovery provides evidence of arboreal life evolving early in the history of primates, with Purgatorius, a tiny tree shrew-like creature, being estimated to have weighed about 3.5 ounces.
Researchers at Aarhus University have discovered ten new antibodies that can inhibit blood vessel formation near tumors, cutting off oxygen and nutrient supply. The antibodies appear to work effectively in laboratory tests and show promising therapeutic potential.
The 'Open MIND' collection features 39 original articles and commentaries from leading researchers, covering topics like conscious thought processes, perception, and ethics. The project showcases a novel approach to publishing, with peer-reviewed quality control and fast production times.
Children born after IVF have fewer preterm births, low birth weight issues, and stillbirths. The study found that transferring only one embryo per cycle improves single baby health.
A CU Denver study reveals that cities investing in compact street networks and multi-modal infrastructure are better equipped to withstand sudden changes in gas prices. The research found that 69.4% of households would struggle to afford commuting costs if gas prices tripled, highlighting the need for expanded transportation choices.
A survey of 348 psychiatric hospital workers found that 99% experienced verbal conflict with patients, while 70% reported being assaulted in the previous year. The study highlights the need for improved strategies to address conflicts and assaults in these settings.
A recent study by Concordia University researchers found that individuals who experienced prolonged social isolation had decreased heart rate variability, a marker of poor physical health. In contrast, those who formed strong social connections showed increased heart rate variability and improved overall health.
Researchers propose the 'Canine Cooperation Hypothesis', suggesting wolves' natural social behavior provided the foundation for human-dog relationships. Studies show wolves exhibit similar social skills to dogs, including tolerance and cooperation with humans.
The Crime Victims' Institute at Sam Houston State University has released a new series on human trafficking, shedding light on the prevalence of sex trafficking victims worldwide. The research reveals that approximately 600,000 to 800,000 people are trafficked annually, with 70% of those forced into the sex trade internationally.
A new study by University of Bristol researchers has significantly advanced the understanding of haemoplasma immunity in cats. The findings suggest that cats who have previously recovered from infection may be protected against re-infection, paving the way for potential vaccine development.
Researchers at UC Riverside have identified microRNA-8 as a crucial regulator of mosquito reproduction, which plays an essential role in the female mosquito's 'fat body'. Depletion of miR-8 results in severe defects in egg development and deposition, highlighting its potential as a novel control strategy for mosquito populations.
Researchers discovered a way to determine tree density, vegetation structure, and leaf arrangement in ancient plant fossils, providing insight into how ecosystems have changed over millions of years. This new method allows for quantification of vegetation openness and sheds light on the impact of climate change on Earth's ecosystems.
The use of ICSI in IVF procedures for male infertility has doubled between 1996 and 2012. Despite this increase, studies found no association with improved reproductive outcomes such as implantation or pregnancy rates.
A team of investigators at the University of Calgary has identified potential drug targets for neurocutaneous melanocytosis (NCM), a rare childhood cancer. The study used molecular analysis of patient tumor cells grown in animal models, revealing new insights into the disease's biology and suggesting possible treatments.
Researchers have uncovered a critical role of the mitochondrial calcium uniporter (MCU) in regulating heart rate frequency. Blocking MCU function in mouse hearts reduced heart rate increases in response to stimuli, suggesting its importance in physiological heart rate regulation.
Scientists analyzed ocean floor dust to determine the amount of heavy elements created by supernovae, finding much less plutonium and uranium than expected. This challenges current theories that these essential materials are created and distributed throughout space.
A recent survey in Beijing shows public inclination towards banning tiger products and supporting conservation breeding over farming. The study highlights the need to maintain suitable population sizes and handle dead individuals during breeding.
A UMass Medical School study found that long-lived C. elegans mutants spend more time in a frail state than healthy ones, challenging the assumption that longevity and health are linked. The researchers identified genes that control 'healthspan' as separate from those influencing lifespan.
A new study from University of Michigan researchers reveals that competition between predators and parasites can strengthen biological control systems, rather than weaken them. This counterintuitive finding has potential applications for organic farming and pest control, where synthetic pesticides are not allowed.
Researchers at Queen Mary University of London have developed microcapsules that can deliver C-type natriuretic peptide (CNP), an anti-inflammatory protein, to damaged cartilage in osteoarthritis patients. The microcapsules could potentially slow the progression of osteoarthritis and repair damaged tissue.
A new analysis of human influenza B viruses sheds light on the pathogen causing seasonal flu, suggesting targeted vaccines and potential eradication of a slower-evolving lineage by expanding quadrivalent vaccine use.
A £90,000 research project is exploring the genetic basis of human diseases using Caernorhabditis elegans worms. The study may lead to the development of new treatments for kidney disease and age-related disorders.
Long noncoding RNAs play a crucial role in regulating inflammatory gene expression and controlling immune responses. Researchers propose lncRNAs as potential targets for novel anti-inflammatory therapeutics.
A Canadian-Japanese research team has identified a shared genetic mutation responsible for an inherited metabolic disorder, glycogen storage disease type IIIa, in Inuit populations in northern Quebec. The mutation affects approximately 1 in 2500 people in Nunavik and can cause enlarged livers, hypoglycemia, and muscle weakness.
The system measures temperature of mechanical or cutting processes without access to conventional techniques, using a fiber optic pyrometer. It determines temperature by radiation measurement and can withstand high temperatures, enabling analysis of tool wear and optimization of productivity.
A UK hospital performed the world's first successful organ donation from a newborn, involving kidney and liver cell transplants. The donor was just over 3 kg at birth and had poor brain oxygenation, leading to her death; however, her parents agreed to donate her organs for other patients in need.
Astronomers successfully observed a 'fast radio burst', a brief flash of radio waves, in real-time using the Parkes telescope. The event was detected up to 5.5 billion light years away and suggested the presence of a magnetic field nearby.
A new study published in Nutrients found that tree nut consumers had better nutrient adequacy for most nutrients and a higher Healthy Eating Index-2005 score than non-consumers. The researchers recommend increasing awareness and consumption of tree nuts as part of a healthy diet.
Researchers found evidence of arboreality playing a key role in primate evolution, suggesting subtle changes allowed for easier navigation and better access to food in the trees. The discovery challenges traditional textbook illustrations and provides the oldest fossil evidence to date for this concept.
A genome-wide study of the malaria parasite reveals a complex genetic architecture that enables artemisinin resistance. Researchers found 20 mutations in the kelch13 gene and four other genes that work together to support resistance, but monitoring specific genetic backgrounds could help target high-risk regions.
A new analysis has identified over 58,000 long non-coding RNA genes that may play a role in cancer. The study also found that one lncRNA, SChLAP1, is a potential biomarker for aggressive prostate cancer.
Researchers estimate that 50% more organic carbon will be exported in glacier outflow over the next 35 years, equivalent to half of the Mississippi River's annual organic carbon influx. This increase has major implications for high-latitude marine ecosystems, particularly those surrounding ice sheets.
Researchers found a 30% relative increase in falls among older adults aged 65+, with an 8% absolute increase, from 1998 to 2010. The study suggests that the rise in reported falls may not be due to aging population demographics.
A new study reveals that cone snails add a unique form of insulin to their venom cocktail, which disrupts blood glucose levels and causes hypoglycemic shock in fish. The snail insulin may help unlock secrets of insulin function and energy metabolism.
Research from the University of East Anglia shows that group walking can reduce blood pressure, resting heart rate, body fat, weight, and total cholesterol. Joining a walking group is recommended as a low-risk way to boost overall health and reduce risk factors for ill health.
A Penn State study found that a prenatal program aimed at enhancing couples' co-parenting relationship improved children's adjustment and school engagement at age seven. The intervention focused on fostering positive co-parenting, leading to better emotional security and well-being for the child.
A systematic review found that prolonged sitting is independently associated with negative health outcomes and mortality, especially among those who exercise little. Tips from the author include taking regular breaks to stand or move around, setting achievable goals for reducing sedentary time.
A new study reveals four new genera and four new species of bush crickets from sub-Saharan Africa, shedding light on the diversity of Orthoptera. The discovery includes one species that has been waiting for over 100 years to be discovered and described, with the name 'oblitum' meaning 'forgotten' in Latin.
New research reveals that individuals with autism display 'idiosyncratic' brain synchronization patterns, which are distinct from those of typically developing individuals. This finding has significant implications for early diagnosis and future treatments of the disorder.
A common gut microbe may protect against multiple sclerosis (MS) in women. The study found that women with MS who tested positive for Helicobacter pylori had lower disability scores than those who tested negative.
A mathematical model identified booster schedules that result in the greatest reduction in whooping cough disease with the lowest economic cost. The most effective strategies varied depending on the underlying causes of the resurgence, including insufficient vaccine coverage, low vaccine efficacy, waning immunity, and leaky vaccines.
A new Yale-developed laser reduces speckle contrast in full-field imaging, enabling brighter and clearer images. The technology combines traditional laser brightness with LED-like properties, addressing a significant barrier in biomedical imaging and microscopy.
A large study of nearly 15,000 men and women found that moderate alcohol consumption is associated with a lower risk of heart failure. Men who consumed up to seven drinks a week had a 20% reduced risk, while women had a 16% reduced risk compared to abstainers.
Researchers used spatial analysis software to identify clusters of underimmunization and vaccine refusal among Kaiser Permanente members in Northern California. Underimmunization ranged from 18% to 23% within clusters, compared to 11% outside clusters, highlighting areas with high vaccine refusal rates.
Scientists at ETH Zurich develop a method to produce pre-structured cellulose materials with three-dimensional micro-structures, enhancing biocompatibility. This leads to reduced inflammation and rejection reactions when using artificial implants.
A recent study found that poorer parents participate in a wide range of good parenting practices, including reading to their children, helping with homework, and playing sports. Despite lower incomes, these parents are equally likely to engage in such activities as better-off families.
Researchers have discovered a novel signaling pathway critical to the immune response of cells associated with allergic asthma. Increasing cAMP levels inhibited the cells' inflammatory response, suggesting a potential target for new therapies.
SCAPE, a new high-speed 3D microscope developed by Elizabeth Hillman, overcomes major hurdles in biomedical research imaging. It allows for real-time 3D imaging at cellular resolution in behaving organisms, capturing complex dynamics like neurons firing in the brain or cells moving in the zebrafish heart.
Researchers analyzed mid-ocean ridge basalts to understand the uranium isotope cycle, revealing a 'fingerprint' of the element in oceanic crust. The study suggests that uranium has been transported from the surface to the deep mantle through subduction, providing insights into Earth's evolution over billions of years.
Researchers discovered that Twist1, a developmental regulator, primes cells for stem-cell-like properties when activated transiently. This leads to cellular plasticity and regenerative potential. Conversely, chronic Twist1 activity promotes invasive, non-proliferative phenotypes in tumor cells.
A team of researchers from KU Leuven has made a significant discovery about the impact of atmospheric rivers on Antarctica's ice sheet. They found that these long, narrow water vapor plumes can rapidly transport large amounts of moisture and cause devastating precipitation when they hit coastal areas.
Scientists have created the first germanium-tin semiconductor laser for silicon chips, enabling faster data transfer and reducing energy consumption. The new material can be applied directly onto a silicon chip, paving the way for high-speed data transmission.