A study by Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health found that past-year heroin use rose significantly among individuals taking opioids like oxycontin, particularly among Hispanics and non-Hispanic whites. The rate of heroin use for non-Hispanic whites increased by 75% in 2008-2011 compared to earlier years.
Scientists have developed a computer system that can analyze large databases of gene-activity measurements to identify genes that are turned on in specific cell types. This allows researchers to refine their analysis through thousands of measurements, providing more information about human diseases than current techniques.
Researchers developed a model of a malaria-infected red blood cell to understand the mechanism behind stiffening and stickiness. The model found that protein nodules called knobs contribute to stiffness, suggesting a promising approach to treat the disease by softening the cells.
Scientists found that AGRP neurons, responsible for unpleasant feelings of hunger, help explain why it's hard to stick to a diet. These neurons teach animals to respond to sensory cues that signal the presence of food, making them more likely to snack.
Research suggests that adolescent brain exposure to alcohol can lead to changes in learning and memory, even after adulthood. The study found hyperactive long-term potentiation in the brains of exposed rats, which may contribute to impaired cognitive functions.
A new class of PCSK9 antibodies has been shown to reduce mortality, lower LDL-cholesterol, and improve cardiovascular outcomes in patients with dyslipidemia. The treatment was well-tolerated and proved safe, providing a promising alternative for those who do not respond to statins.
A study by researchers at the University of Exeter found that New Zealand stoats have greater genetic diversity than their native Britain, preserving extinct British genes. This is unusual as introducing a species typically leads to a loss in genetic diversity.
Researchers from Johns Hopkins Medicine have found that specific altered function in the left atrium may signal stroke risk in those with a-fib and possibly those without it. The study suggests that certain features of the heart's upper left chamber could be used to tell apart low-risk from high-risk patients.
A study found that FOXO1, a protein promoting tissue repair, acts as an inhibitor of wound healing in diabetes patients. High glucose levels slow keratinocyte migration, while insulin speeds up the process. The research suggests inhibiting FOXO1 could speed healing in diabetic patients.
Researchers at Caltech have discovered the detailed mechanism of action for Xist, an lncRNA that silences the X chromosome in female embryos. By understanding how Xist works, scientists can gain insights into long non-coding RNAs and their role in regulating cellular processes.
A study at Children's Mercy Hospital demonstrates the potential of rapid whole-genome sequencing in diagnosing genetic diseases in critically ill infants. The STAT-Seq test improved diagnosis rates to over half, leading to refined clinical care and improved treatment outcomes.
A new study published in the Journal of AAPOS found that rates of eye injuries from air guns increased by 511% between 2010 and 2012, with most cases occurring among minors. The authors suggest regulations and stricter marketing guidelines to prevent these preventable injuries.
A new special issue of the journal Gastroenterology explores how food affects health and disease, including the gut microbiome, food allergies, and non-celiac wheat sensitivity. The research provides evidence-based summaries to guide clinical recommendations for patients and clinicians.
A University of Washington seismologist studied tidal forces on the Cascadia fault and found friction is much lower than previously thought, similar to Teflon. This discovery could improve understanding of when and how faults break, potentially leading to better modeling and prediction of slow-slip quakes and earthquakes.
Researchers developed biocompatible and biodegradable nanoparticles with effective antibacterial activity against E. coli, S. aureus, and B. subtilis. The NPs disrupt bacterial walls, induce reactive oxygen species, and cause cell invagination, making them a promising antimicrobial agent.
Researchers from Oak Crest Institute of Science have developed a matchstick-sized subdermal implant that delivers potent antiretroviral drugs for up to 40 days, showing promise in stopping the spread of HIV. The implant eliminates adherence issues, a critical factor in HIV prevention.
A team of biomedical engineers at Washington University in St. Louis used locusts to study the brain's processing of information from its senses. They found that when two puffs of a similar odor were given one after the other, the spiking neural activity generated by the first encountered odor interfered with processing the second odor.
Researchers found that bats, like humans, use hemispheric specialization for sound processing, with left brain better for fast sounds and right for slow ones. This discovery opens new avenues for studying bat brains to understand human language disorders and improve computer speech recognition.
Researchers found samples of seamounts that did not erupt from hot spots but formed from cracks in the oceanic crust. This discovery confirms their origins and helps explain the unique bend in the Hawaiian-Emperor chain.
Researchers at British American Tobacco developed a new smoking-specific survey, TQoLIT, to assess the impact of next-generation tobacco and nicotine products on 'otherwise healthy' smokers. The tool improves upon existing general health questionnaires by reducing ceiling effects and detecting specific smoking-related health changes.
A recent study published in the Journal of Epidemiology & Community Health found that children whose parents separate or divorce are more likely to experience psychosomatic problems. However, those living with both parents in a joint custody arrangement had fewer symptoms than peers living mostly or only with one parent.
Women with breast cancer who follow a physical exercise program during chemotherapy experience less fatigue, nausea, and pain. The study found that both moderate and low-intensity exercise programs significantly reduced the need for dose adjustments in chemotherapy treatment.
Hot vents on the seabed may have spontaneously produced organic molecules essential for life, according to a new study. The surfaces of mineral particles inside hydrothermal vents exhibit chemical properties similar to enzymes, allowing them to create simple carbon-based molecules like methanol and formic acid.
The District of Columbia Center for AIDS Research (DC CFAR) will provide significant pilot award funding opportunities and mentorship through its Developmental Core, promoting scientific research in DC on HIV cure and prevention. With this grant, the DC CFAR joins ranks of leading research institutions as a full CFAR.
Researchers found that bumblebees infected with the Crithidia bombi parasite were more likely to consume nicotine-laced nectar, delaying parasite progression. However, consuming nicotine had negative effects, suppressing the appetite of infected bees and reducing healthy bee lifespan.
Researchers developed a new computational method called AGGRESCAN3D to study protein aggregation in 3D. The algorithm surpasses limitations of previous methods and offers improved precision in predicting protein aggregation properties.
A team of scientists is working on a project to create new pesticides that target specific insect species without harming beneficial ones. By mimicking the hormone systems of these insects, researchers hope to disrupt their reproductive cycles and prevent population explosions.
A trio of studies found that bullying, whether face-to-face or electronic, significantly increases the risk of depression, suicidal thoughts, and carrying weapons to school. Victimized teens are more likely to carry weapons to school and skip classes.
Researchers have developed a novel synthetic material that can self-assemble into nanostructures to support tissue growth and ultimately degrade. This biofunctional coating stimulates the formation of complex tissues, offering a promising approach to deliver cell and tissue therapies.
Researchers have demonstrated autonomous locomotion in large self-powered soft liquid metal vehicles. The vehicles can divide into smaller ones while maintaining their motion and reunite seamlessly when close to each other.
Scientists have identified two new iguanid lizard species from the Laja Lagoon in Chile, expanding our knowledge of the region's unique reptilian diversity. The study describes two new species within the Liolaemus elongatus-kriegi complex, highlighting the importance of continued research into Patagonian lizards.
Scientists have developed a 'Neuronal Positioning System' that maps the axonal wiring of individual neurons, revealing organizational principles of neuronal networks. This new approach enables researchers to study how specific neurons are wired to other types and regions, providing insights into brain function and development.
The $1.6-million gift enables world-changing research in lung diseases and quantum computing through collaboration between the University of Waterloo and Technion-Israel Institute of Technology. Researchers aim to develop targeted drug delivery systems for pulmonary diseases and advance quantum information science.
Children with peanut allergies are most at risk of exposure in their own homes, according to a new study. The research found that caregivers and physicians often fail to provide proper management for moderate and severe reactions, highlighting the need for education on strict allergen avoidance.
Researchers at the University of Bristol have resolved an unexplained gap in global emissions reports, finding that developing countries are significantly contributing to the issue. The study used atmospheric measurements and models to evaluate reported HFC emissions and found inconsistencies in reporting, with some gases being over- o...
Survivors of Hodgkin lymphoma have a persistently increased risk of cardiovascular disease throughout life, with a cumulative risk of 50% at 40 years after diagnosis. The study found that mediastinal radiotherapy and anthracycline-containing chemotherapy significantly increased the risks of cardiovascular events.
Researchers found that neurons produce a chemical critical for blood vessel survival, which also supports photoreceptors. The study suggests a new way to understand and treat diseases like diabetic retinopathy and age-related macular degeneration.
A new study predicts that increased air conditioning adoption will lead to significant increases in energy consumption and strain on energy infrastructures worldwide. The authors call for action now to develop more energy-efficient and affordable air conditioners for poorer populations.
A new study links insomnia to occupational impairment in night shift workers, with alert insomniacs showing the highest level of impairment in work productivity and cognitive function. The study emphasizes the importance of treating insomnia in night shift workers to improve work-related outcomes.
Emory scientists have adapted the CRISPR genetic defense system to target the RNA of the hepatitis C virus in human cells. This approach could potentially prevent viral infections and has implications for biotechnology applications, including the prevention of viral infections in transgenic animals and plants.
A new species of dinosaur, Chilesaurus diegosuarezi, has been discovered in Chile with a mix of characteristics from different groups of dinosaurs. The plant-eating theropod has a small skull and feet similar to long-necked dinosaurs, challenging previous understanding of evolutionary divergence.
Researchers at Yale University successfully corrected the F508del mutation in the cystic fibrosis gene, a lethal genetic disorder. The novel approach uses synthetic molecules to edit the genetic defect, with minimal off-target effects.
The American College of Cardiology hosts sessions on cardiovascular disease prevention and treatment at the Asia Pacific Congress, focusing on the growing burden of diabetes and cardiovascular disease in the region. The event aims to bring together global leaders to prevent heart disease and improve treatments.
The District of Columbia Center for AIDS Research brings together six institutions to combat the HIV epidemic in Washington D.C. Georgetown University Medical Center plays a key role, with its Women's Interagency HIV Study and clinical and population sciences core providing critical services.
A study published in JAMA Pediatrics found that adolescent girls who consumed 2,400 mg or more of potassium per day had lower blood pressures at the end of adolescence. In contrast, higher sodium intakes were not linked to increased blood pressure in this age group.
A Princeton University study found that male and female Stegosaurus had distinct plate shapes, with females having shorter and wider plates and males having taller and narrower ones. This discovery sheds light on sexual dimorphism in non-avian dinosaurs, challenging previous assumptions.
A study of over 6,600 veterans found that using both VA care and a Medicare Advantage plan did not have any negative impact on quality of care, but raised concerns about duplicate federal spending. The researchers also noted that many veterans relied more heavily on VA care than Medicare Advantage visits.
Researchers at McGill and Concordia universities have discovered a mechanism that explains how light regulates protein synthesis in the brain, affecting the function of the circadian clock. The study found that phosphorylation of key proteins plays a pivotal role in resetting the body's internal clock.
A University of Utah team has been awarded a $400,000 grant to study new methods for developing geothermal energy in areas where it's not currently feasible. The goal is to discover ways to create underground flow that will allow communities to construct sustainable and clean geothermal systems.
A Swedish study found that maternal overweight and obesity increases the risk of type 1 diabetes in children when neither parent has diabetes. The study, published in Diabetologia, suggests that reducing maternal weight before and during pregnancy could lower the incidence of T1D.
A recent study found that saturated fatty acids can induce cell death in cardiac muscle cells through endoplasmic reticulum stress. In contrast, unsaturated fatty acids protect these cells from damage. The research suggests a critical role for saturated fatty acids in heart disease development.
Researchers at UC Davis have identified the biochemical underpinnings of Canavan disease, a type of leukodystrophy that causes progressive neurological deterioration. By blocking the production of NAA, they aim to find a promising direction for treatment and potentially reverse the process in children with the disease.
The discovery fills a gap between ordinary supernovae and those that produce powerful gamma-ray bursts. Supernova 2012ap has characteristics expected of a gamma-ray burst, yet no such burst occurred.
Research suggests that nitrofurantoin is less effective at treating bladder infections in older women with low kidney function compared to other antibiotics. The study found that patients taking nitrofurantoin were more likely to experience treatment failure and require a second antibiotic prescription or hospital visit.
A new coral-dwelling gall crab, Lithoscaptus semperi, was discovered inhabiting free-living corals of the species Trachyphyllia geoffroyi on sandy bottoms near coral reefs. The study highlights the need to protect coral reefs, with the newly designated Tun Mustapha Park being a priority.
Researchers at Women's College Hospital identified a new breast cancer gene, RECQL, strongly linked to the onset of breast cancer in two populations of Polish and French-Canadian women. The study found that specific mutations in the gene were associated with a high risk of developing breast cancer.
A multi-year study by Olga Troyanskaya and her team identified 144 functional gene interaction networks for organs as diverse as the kidney, liver, and whole brain. The technique, NetWAS, combines quantitative genetics with functional genomics to increase the power of GWAS and identify genes underlying complex human diseases.
A new study has found that high-pitched sounds can cause seizures in older cats, with certain breeds and triggers identified. The study, published in the Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery, reveals that audiogenic reflex seizures (FARS) occur in pedigree and non-pedigree cats, often triggered by loud noises such as crinkling tin fo...
A recent study published in PLOS ONE found that rare dune plants, such as Tidestrom's lupine, rely on open sand habitats for germination and survival. Removing beachgrass from coastal dunes can help restore native species by allowing the sand to move and creating more mobile dunes.
Researchers at the University of Missouri have challenged a popular theory that North America was first settled by Upper Paleolithic people from Europe via an ice bridge. The team found inconsistencies in the recovery and ownership of the ship that discovered the alleged evidence, as well as discrepancies in photographs and records.
Researchers at Queen's University found a significant reduction in cervical dysplasia and genital warts among eligible girls who received the HPV vaccine. The study of over 260,000 girls showed that one case of cervical dysplasia was prevented for every 175 eligible girls vaccinated.
A new study found that technology can reduce distracted driving among teen drivers when cameras and cell phone blocking programs are in place. The study showed that teens who used these systems had lower cell phone use and fewer high-risk driving behaviors.
A new study found that while most people are willing to reduce their personal energy consumption, many are hesitant to share their energy data with third parties. Climate change awareness and cost concerns play a significant role in shaping public acceptance of demand-side management systems.
Researchers found a positive association between cardiorespiratory fitness and white matter structural integrity in the brains of older adults. Exercise, particularly walking, was identified as a potentially effective strategy for delaying cognitive decline and improving quality of life.
Researchers found that atrial fibrillation, the most prevalent heart rhythm disorder, is associated only with non-ST segment elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI) type of heart attack, increasing risk by 63 percent overall and higher rates in women. Atrial fibrillation has long been known to be a risk factor for stroke.
A 3D map of galaxy superclusters has been created, providing insights into dark matter and its distribution in the universe. The map, published online in Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society, spans nearly two billion light years.
Researchers have pinpointed a new mechanism responsible for the progression of malaria, which could lead to new therapies. The study found that nanoscale knobs on infected red blood cells cause cell stiffening and reduced blood flow.
Researchers at North Carolina State University and MIT have developed a lightweight membrane that can significantly reduce low-frequency noise in aircraft cabins. The membrane covers one side of the honeycomb structure and blocks sound energy, making flying more pleasant for passengers.
A new analysis of the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database found significant variation in health insurance coverage among cancer patients based on demographics and cancer type. Younger, non-White, and rural patients were more likely to be uninsured, while males were less likely than females to have insurance.
Researchers at TU Wien found that the holographic principle can hold true even in flat spacetime, confirming its validity in our own universe. This validation suggests that the universe may be a hologram, with three-dimensional space being an image of two-dimensional processes on a cosmic horizon.
A UTMB study shows that augmenting a gas naturally in our bodies, hydrogen sulfide, can reduce the severity of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infection. The researchers found that providing a drug that triggers a steady release of this gas blocks RSV viral replication and inflammation.
A new study reveals that monk parakeets invading Europe and North America share similar genetic patterns, indicating they originated from the same small area in Uruguay. The invasive populations have lower genetic diversity compared to native populations, which is unusual for species with successful invasions.
A study published in The Journal of General Physiology reveals the distinct roles of calcium channels in controlling arterial tone and blood flow to the brain. Researchers found that blocking L-type and T-type channels has opposite effects on blood flow, with one promoting vasodilation and the other constricting arteries.
The project aims to equip hospital chaplains with research skills, enabling them to guide, evaluate and advocate for spiritual care. This will advance outcome-oriented chaplaincy care and align with the growing body of evidence connecting religion and spirituality with better patient outcomes.
Scientists at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center have discovered a long-sought component of the neural network that controls eating, finding that the melanoncortin 4 receptor-regulated circuit inhibits and controls hunger. Activating this circuit reduces feeding in mice and removes feelings of intense hunger.
The bumblebee genome has been mapped, revealing a relatively small fraction of genes involved in the immune response compared to flies and mosquitoes. Despite its weak social organization, the bumblebee has just as few immune genes as the honeybee, suggesting that diet may play a role in shaping its immune system.
A new study found that patient portals exacerbate existing health disparities, with less educated and minority patients being less likely to use electronic medical records. Patients with low health literacy skills were 3.5 times more likely to be registered than those without these skills.
A study combines ecology and human needs to map regional strengths and weaknesses in Baja fisheries. The research reveals that each region has unique characteristics, requiring tailored policies to achieve sustainability without undermining its strengths.
Researchers have created a method that can identify the mass and shape of individual molecules, opening up new possibilities for biologists and biomedical applications. The technique uses vibrations in a tiny device to measure the mass-to-charge ratio and then analyzes the resulting frequencies to determine the molecule's shape.
Researchers found that situational ambiguity enables people to cheat and justify their actions more easily. In experiments, participants were more likely to report incorrect values when the correct answer was not clear, indicating a self-serving bias.
A national survey found that only 11% of women can correctly identify pregnancy, lupus, and other female-specific stroke risks. The survey also highlights the importance of recognizing early warning signs such as hiccups, atypical chest pain, and dizziness.
Research reveals that detection rates of critical congenital heart disease before birth have improved, but disparities remain in poor and rural communities. The study found that those living in these areas are less likely to receive a diagnosis before birth due to limited healthcare resources.
The Helmsley Charitable Trust has launched a global type 1 diabetes prevention initiative, investing $8.7 million in international grants to support observational studies and clinical trials. The project aims to identify new pathways to prevent the disease through data analysis and intervention clinical trials.
Researchers found a significant association between Google search volume of the 'n-word' and higher mortality rates among Blacks. The study suggests that area-level racism can be monitored using internet query-based measures, pointing to its impact on mortality risk.
Researchers have developed a large-scale sequencing technique called Genome and Transcriptome Sequencing (G&T-seq) that reveals the unique genome sequence of a single cell and the activity of genes within that cell. The study found that when a cell loses or gains a copy of a chromosome, the genes in that region show decreased or in...
Researchers Paul Dassonville and Scott A. Reed found that the brain relies on a shared representation of space to make perceptual judgments and guide behavior, contradicting the notion of separate pathways for perception and action. This study challenges long-held assumptions about how the brain processes visual information.
Breast cancer survivors experience chemo-brain, a condition characterized by chronically wandering minds and inability to focus. UBC research reveals that their brains are stuck in a disengaged state, making it difficult for them to concentrate on tasks.
A new study found that using a simple device for eight hours a night can help people with prediabetes improve their blood sugar levels and reduce the risk of progressing to diabetes. Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) treatment was shown to lower glucose metabolism, insulin regulation, stress hormone levels, and blood pressure.
A study on adolescent bariatric surgery found that severely obese teens experience musculoskeletal pain and functional difficulties. Lower extremity pain was a key predictor of functional impairment and low health-related quality of life scores.
A researcher has uncovered a relationship between upright locomotion and spinal health, finding that human vertebrae with disc problems are closer in shape to those of chimpanzees than those without disc problems. The study suggests that evolution may not have fully adapted the human spine for bipedal walking.
A new study analyzing over 460 conifer species found that the ancient pollination mechanism is gradually disappearing, leading to a loss of buoyant saccate pollen and droplet emission. Instead, species evolved new traits or lost existing ones, demonstrating 'stasis and release' in plant evolution.
Researchers at Columbia Engineering and their collaborators have demonstrated the improvement of molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) performance by encapsulating it in boron nitride (BN), an insulating material. This breakthrough enables the study of true properties and potential applications in high-performance electronics, detection, and emi...
Researchers at NYU Langone discovered that mitochondria are essential for stem cell development, directly controlling the growth and maintenance of inner membranes inside mitochondria. The study found that blocking ATP synthase stalled egg cell development from stem cells in fruit flies.
The 2015 Weatherstone Predoctoral Fellowship class of Autism Speaks will pursue two-year research projects under mentorship of leading scientists. The program aims to advance understanding of autism and support essential training opportunities for the brightest young investigators.
May-Britt and Edvard Moser, Norwegian neuroscientists, were elected members of the American Philosophical Society in recognition of their groundbreaking research on spatial memory. The APS recognizes outstanding achievements in all fields of intellectual endeavor, a testament to the Mosers' exceptional contributions to neuroscience.
Researchers found that people tend to seek information on HIV-related topics at the beginning of the week and engage in risky behaviors on weekends. Implementing interventions based on these patterns could lead to better outcomes, including improved ART adherence and increased testing.
Researchers at Gladstone Institutes discovered a way to prevent MS onset in mice by blocking SIRT1, suggesting its role in autoimmune disorders. The treatment also shows promise for other diseases like type I diabetes.
A new app developed at the University of Washington uses inaudible sound waves to track breathing patterns, capturing sleep apnea events with 98% accuracy. The app has the potential to be a simple and noninvasive way for people to identify and potentially treat sleep apnea.
Researchers at Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution discovered that stressed and dying phytoplankton release chemicals that stimulate marine bacteria to quickly convert organic carbon back into CO2. This process reduces the amount of sinking detritus, releasing more CO2 into the shallow ocean and atmosphere.
A Mayo Clinic-led research team has identified a molecular switch in the HER2 protein that sets off a cascade of events leading to cancer. Disrupting this site can stem the growth of breast cancer cells more effectively than current treatments.
Scientists at Boston College have discovered negative electronic compressibility (NEC) in a three-dimensional material, iridium oxide. Adding electrons to the system effectively shrinks its size, a phenomenon previously only observed in two-dimensional materials.
A new Veterans Affairs study found that the high-dose flu vaccine provides stronger protection against flu-related hospitalizations and deaths for those 85 and older, while standard vaccines may be effective for younger seniors. The study included over 165,000 patients and tracked hospitalization and death rates.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine discovered that neurons use minor 'DNA surgeries' to toggle their activity levels, shedding light on brain disorders and learning. The study found a mechanism where Tet3 levels respond to synaptic activity, enabling neurons to maintain consistent levels of communication.
Researchers found a strong association between migraines and carpal tunnel syndrome, with 34% of patients with carpal tunnel also reporting migraines. Further studies are needed to understand the connection and potential preventive measures.
Climate warming is leading to earlier spring feeding by blacklegged ticks, which can carry Lyme disease and other pathogens. This shift in tick activity highlights the need for public education campaigns to reduce the number of people affected by tick-borne illnesses.