Researchers at Columbia University Irving Medical Center have found a defect in pancreatic cells that can lead to high blood sugar levels and impaired glucose balance. An experimental drug called Rycal has been shown to stop the leaky channels and normalize glucose levels in mouse models.
Research suggests that targeting the gut immune system with a commonly used anti-inflammatory drug may be an effective way to treat insulin resistance and lower blood sugar levels in humans. The study found that mice fed a high-fat diet had larger amounts of pro-inflammatory immune cells in their bowels, leading to insulin resistance.
Concentrations of anesthetics desflurane, isoflurane, and sevoflurane have been rising globally, making a small contribution to climate change. The gases are potent greenhouse-gas effects, with one kilogram of desflurane equivalent to 2,500 kilograms of carbon dioxide.
A Concordia University study found that shoppers use online prices as reference points when making purchases offline. Offline retailers should focus on prices associated with highly rated online retailers to increase their impact on in-store price evaluations.
A study of over 31,000 women with BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations found that the risk of breast and ovarian cancer varies by mutation type. The findings suggest that knowledge of mutation-specific risks could inform clinical decision-making among carriers.
A genetic mutation combined with an urban environment increases the risk of severe respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) disease in children. Children from urban middle-class families were eight times more likely to be hospitalized, a risk similar to extremely premature babies.
Researchers found that capsaicin-evoked burning pain sensation is caused by sequential activation of TRPV1 and anoctamin 1, leading to further depolarization. Anoctamin 1 activation increases pain sensation in mice, while chemical blockade provides relief from pain induced by TRPV1 activation.
Prickly lettuce has potential as a new cash crop providing raw material for rubber production, according to Washington State University scientists. They identified genetic markers linked to rubber production in the plant's genetic code, opening the way for breeding desired traits and developing a sustainable source of natural rubber.
A University of Oregon economist's study found that reducing punishments for drivers above the legal blood alcohol content (BAC) threshold results in lower recidivism rates. The study showed a 17% reduction in repeat offenses for BAC levels above .08 and an additional 9% reduction for levels above .15.
Researchers discover that metformin and resveratrol activate molecules in the small intestine, triggering a neuronal network to lower blood sugar. The findings suggest targeting the gut with small compounds could represent an alternative strategy to lower glucose levels and reduce diabetic complications.
Researchers at Stanford University have developed a rechargeable aluminum battery that offers a safe alternative to commercial batteries. The new technology boasts ultra-fast charging times of just one minute and can withstand over 7,500 charge-discharge cycles without losing capacity.
A new study links long-term exposure to family stressors like family disruption, financial stress, and maternal poor health to increased risk of obesity in adolescents. Findings suggest female and male adolescents respond differently to stress, highlighting the need for tailored social services in obesity prevention programs.
Researchers at Walter and Eliza Hall Institute discovered that cancer drug target MCL-1 is crucial for normal blood cell production, but its depletion impairs recovery of the blood cell system after cancer therapy-induced blood cell loss. This finding has important implications for potential cancer treatments involving MCL-1 inhibitors.
Case Western Reserve University researchers have developed a metal-free bifunctional electrocatalyst that performs as well or better than most metal and metal oxide electrodes in zinc-air batteries. The carbon-based catalyst works efficiently in both oxygen reduction and oxygen evolution reactions, making the battery rechargeable.
A new measurement method using droplet digital polymerase chain reaction (ddPCR) estimates the distribution of aquatic animals in water by quantifying target DNA copies. This technique offers higher accuracy than existing methods, especially at low environmental DNA concentrations.
Researchers have developed new 3D designs for reconstructing damaged neural tissue using stem cells grown on nanofiber scaffolding within a supportive hydrogel. The approach guides neural connections, acting like a roadmap for cell growth and function.
Many cancers, including pancreatic cancer, enslave and deform mitochondria to create an environment conducive to tumor growth. Researchers found that blocking this process may lead to the growth of tumors.
Researchers find that ticks are prevalent on lemurs' noses, particularly male Haemaphysalis lemuris, which attach to the nostrils. The study suggests that the nose is a strategic location for ticks to find mates and avoid being plucked off during grooming.
Researchers at MIT have created a new magnetic-field detector that is significantly more efficient than its predecessors. The device uses synthetic diamonds with nitrogen vacancies to measure magnetic fields and has the potential to be used in medical imaging, contraband detection, and geological exploration.
A new imaging tool found a strikingly similar pattern of abnormal protein deposits in the brains of retired NFL players with concussions, which may help identify brain disorders like CTE. The study also shows differences in brain imaging patterns between concussed athletes and healthy individuals.
Duke researchers have developed a new method to precisely control gene activity by chemically manipulating proteins that package DNA. This technology allows for the activation of specific gene promoters and enhancers, which could provide a new avenue for gene therapies and guiding stem cell differentiation.
A study of 155 breastfeeding women in Manila found that they experienced an increase in sexual activity after childbirth, which may be a strategy to maintain relationships and invest in future children. This suggests that women's priorities shift from mating efforts to parenting efforts during the postpartum period.
Researchers have identified a cellular receptor, CDHR3, for rhinovirus C, a cold-causing virus strongly associated with severe asthma attacks. A variant of the gene has been linked to an increased risk of childhood wheezing illnesses and asthma.
A new study published in Circulation found that middle-aged athletes are at low risk of having a sudden cardiac arrest while playing sports, with a survival rate of 23% compared to 13%. The study also shows that men are seven times more likely than women to have a sports-related sudden cardiac arrest.
Therapeutic anti-cancer vaccines have been associated with a statistically significant increase in patient survival, but rarely have a noticeable effect on tumor growth. The study suggests that overall survival, rather than progression-free survival, should be the gold standard for evaluating cancer vaccine efficacy.
A new fiber-optic temperature sensor has been designed to measure small temperature changes in the ocean with increased speed and sensitivity. The sensor uses a silicon pillar attached to fused silica glass, allowing it to register temperature shifts at high rates.
Researchers found that consumers experiencing a deactivating emotion are less responsive to high-energy commercials. A moderately energetic commercial is more effective in such cases. The study's findings have implications for ad placement during TV programs.
A two-year study published in Annals of Internal Medicine found that physical therapy and surgery produce similar results for patients with lumbar spinal stenosis, particularly those over 50. The study suggested that patients don't exhaust all non-surgical options before opting for surgery.
A new University of Michigan study found that young people who have been injured in a fight have a nearly 60% chance of being involved in a violent incident involving a firearm within two years. The study also identified associated factors, such as drug use disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder, that increase this risk.
A study by NYU researchers found that neighborhood stigma significantly impacts economic transactions, with buyers perceiving sellers from disadvantaged neighborhoods as less trustworthy and responsive. The study, which analyzed responses to online ads in 12 cities, revealed a 16% lower response rate for disadvantaged neighborhoods com...
Tropical Cyclone 22S, a tropical storm developing in the Southern Indian Ocean, showed organized clouds and a band of thunderstorms on April 6, 2015. The storm was centered near 14.9 south latitude and 61.4 east longitude, with maximum sustained winds of 45 knots (51.7 mph/83.3 kph) at that time.
An observational study of San Antonio men and women aged 65+ found that frequent diet soda consumption was associated with significant increases in waist circumference over 9 years. The risk of metabolic disease, diabetes, heart attack, stroke, cancer, and mortality also rose proportionally.
Researchers discovered that increasing brain activity can stimulate myelin production, which protects nerve fibers. This finding could lead to new treatments for multiple sclerosis.
Experiments show that living mulch can reduce broccoli yields, with reduced effects when organic fertilizer is added.
A study by Daniel C. Feiler and Adam M. Kleinbaum found a 'network extraversion bias' in the emerging social networks of MBA students, where extraverts are over-represented. The effect is more pronounced in the networks of socially outgoing people, suggesting that introverts may be better socially calibrated.
A new laboratory study by the University of Michigan Medical School reveals that near-death brain activity can destabilize heart function and accelerate cardiac demise. The study suggests that blocking brain-heart connections during cardiac arrest may improve survival chances for patients.
The ROIS collaboration aims to promote data centric science through big data utilization. The partnership with CSC, DSI, and EUDAT will enhance research collaboration and access to funding for data-driven research.
Researchers recommend specific strawberry cultivars for challenging conditions in the US Southwest. The study evaluated 16 varieties and found that 'Wendy', 'Brunswick', and 'Honeoye' are tolerant to high-pH soil, while others like 'Allstar' and 'Chandler' are sensitive.
Researchers found that quicker learners use different brain regions and have more interconnected networks, while slower learners rely on more individualized brain activity. The study provides insight into the neural mechanisms behind skill learning and practice.
A team of Northwestern researchers has made a breakthrough in memristor technology, creating a three-terminal device that can be widely tunable. This innovation brings us closer to brain-like computing, which could revolutionize the way we process information.
A new nationwide data inventory, DARTE, provides a baseline for local efforts to limit carbon dioxide levels by tracking vehicle emissions across the US. The study highlights the need for accurate information to improve greenhouse gas control efforts in cities and suburbs.
Scientists at OIST Graduate University have identified a pattern in desert fairy circles that closely resembles the distribution of skin cells. This similarity spans vastly different scales, from microscopic cells to large-scale desert landscapes. The findings suggest that patterns may exist across disparate systems, enabling new appro...
A third of breast cancer patients report strong desire for genetic testing but many do not receive relevant discussions with healthcare professionals. This study highlights the unmet need for addressing genetic risk in these patients.
A study published in Tobacco Control found that women who believe smoking helps them manage their weight are less swayed by anti-smoking policies than other female smokers. The researchers suggest that policymakers should consider addressing concerns about weight gain to enhance the effectiveness of quitting smoking initiatives.
A new RAND Corporation study reveals persistent sleep problems among service members, negatively affecting mental health and operational readiness. The study recommends education and awareness programs to shift cultural attitudes and develop policies to promote healthy sleep habits.
Researchers at the University of Houston have discovered a conductive electron-transporting polymer that offers significant electronic conductivity and stability. The lithium-doped naphthalene-bithiophene polymer enables ultrafast battery applications, with record-setting charge-discharge performance.
Researchers developed an acoustic-based microfluidic device to separate circulating cancer cells from blood samples with high accuracy. The device uses surface acoustic waves to push CTCs out of the fluid stream, making it a potentially game-changing technology for non-invasive diagnostics and treatment monitoring.
Researchers developed a new approach to identify reliable blood biomarkers for Parkinson's disease, which may lead to early diagnosis and targeted treatments. The study found RNA signatures that correlate with the disease-causing mutations in the LRRK2 gene.
The molecular structure of the cytotoxin from Mycoplasma pneumoniae has been determined, which could lead to the development of effective drugs and vaccines to neutralize its injurious effects. The discovery is a significant breakthrough in understanding respiratory infections such as asthma.
A national survey of US healthcare providers found that fewer than half were 'very likely' to prescribe PrEP to high-risk patients. Concerns included daily pill regimen, regular follow-up care, effectiveness, and side effects. Despite strong evidence supporting PrEP use, cost remains a significant issue.
Researchers developed a microfluidic chip that uses sound waves to separate circulating tumor cells from white blood cells, achieving a throughput rate up to 20 times faster than prior attempts. The device preserves the integrity of separated CTCs and offers a label-free approach without chemically altering the cells.
Researchers at Rockefeller University discovered that fast-swimming bacteria can form two-dimensional crystals by clustering together in a lattice structure. The crystals are held together by the rotating motion of individual cells, which creates a unique pattern similar to atoms in mineral crystals.
Seventy percent of glacier ice in British Columbia and Alberta could disappear by the end of the century, impacting energy production, water supply, and freshwater ecosystems. The Rocky Mountains are expected to lose up to 90% of its glaciers, while coastal mountains will retain only half their volume.
The team has calculated the complete elastic properties for 1,181 inorganic compounds, increasing data availability by almost ten-fold. This new dataset is expected to aid materials scientists in developing new materials with specific mechanical properties.
A commonly prescribed antidepressant caused up to six-fold increase in coronary artery atherosclerosis in non-human primates. Researchers found that female monkeys treated with the medication developed three times more atherosclerosis than those given a placebo.
A recent study on the 2012 Mw 7.8 Haida Gwaii and 2013 Mw 7.5 Craig earthquakes reveals a confirmed subduction zone in the Haida Gwaii area, complicating seismic hazard assessments for British Columbia and Alaska. The research also found that the mainshock altered stress fields in the rupture zone, leading to normal faulting behavior.
A study published in Pediatrics found that 10% of online breast milk samples contained added cow's milk, a concerning discovery for parents relying on these sources. The research team also identified bacterial and viral contamination in over 75% of purchased samples, highlighting the risks associated with buying human milk online.
Researchers found that Weight Watchers and Jenny Craig are the most effective commercial weight-loss programs for long-term weight loss. In contrast, physical therapy was as effective as surgery in alleviating symptoms of lumber spinal stenosis. Leading internists also advocate for a more thoughtful approach to cardiopulmonary resuscit...
Researchers found that controlled water deficit can effectively regulate stem elongation in poinsettias, reducing the need for plant growth retardants. The study also showed that prolonged water deficit application reduced bract area, highlighting the importance of avoiding this practice during periods of bract elongation.
A study by UCSF researchers found that lower extremity revascularization procedures had little impact on patients' function in nursing homes. Despite the procedure's operative risk, only a few U.S. nursing home residents gained any walking ability after surgery.