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.
A massive data compilation of 40 years' worth of research on rat brains reveals local networks of neurons, similar to the Internet, governing various functions such as vision, learning, and bodily concerns. This discovery opens a new avenue for connecting human brain studies with animal models, potentially leading to breakthroughs in n...
Research found that sports-associated cases of sudden cardiac arrest were more likely to be witnessed and involved CPR, with a higher rate of survival. The study suggests targeted education can maximize safety and acceptance of sports activity in middle-aged individuals.
A clinical trial found that targeted temperature management at 33°C or 36°C did not significantly impact cognitive function and quality of life in patients with cardiac arrest. However, many patients reported impairment despite similar scores on outcome scales.
A study published by the American Psychological Association found no association between excessive use of first-person singular pronouns and narcissistic tendencies. The research used a large sample size of over 4,800 participants and multiple narcissism measures, suggesting that I-talk may not be a reliable indicator of narcissism.
A team of Brown University engineers found that the unique internal structure of sea sponge spicules contributes to their remarkable anchoring ability. The pattern of decreasing layer thickness from center to edge enhances the spicule's strength and stability, potentially inspiring new engineering designs.
Many nursing home residents experience high mortality rates and functional decline after lower extremity revascularization. The study found that ambulatory function may not be the primary objective of treatment for these patients.
Researchers at the University of Iowa identified a mechanism in which a protein 'hitchhiker' attaches to the centrosome to regulate gene expression during cell division. This process could have implications for understanding human development and disease, including cancer treatment.
A study by UMass Amherst researchers found that teams with a critical mass of women allow them to participate more actively, feel confident, and aspire toward engineering careers. In contrast, teams with equal numbers of men and women or mostly male groups reduced women's worries and anxieties but didn't encourage speaking up.
Scientists outline a six-point plan to restore the Great Barrier Reef through better policies on science, protection, and conservation. The plan includes measures to reduce stressors such as fishing, pollution, and coastal development, as well as transitioning away from fossil fuels and limiting coal port development.
A University of Houston study finds that excessive Facebook use and social comparison are associated with depressive symptoms. The research suggests that individuals who spend more time on Facebook and engage in social comparisons may experience heightened levels of depression.
NTU scientists have discovered a new treatment for dementia using deep brain stimulation, which can form new brain cells and improve memory retention. The research found that stimulating the front part of the brain led to increased brain cell growth, reducing anxiety and depression, and promoting improved learning.
Researchers at Oregon State University found that chemicals emitted by plant roots break bonds between carbon and minerals in the soil, releasing stored carbon into the atmosphere. This process could accelerate climate warming by up to 1% per year, as current models may be underestimating carbon loss from soil.
A new ultra-sensitive test can detect mutant huntingtin protein in the cerebrospinal fluid of HD patients, predicting disease severity. The test has the potential to guide clinical decisions and monitor treatment efficacy.
A new study published in BMC Systems Biology uses computational method corsoFBA to model cellular metabolism and discover how organisms adapt to changing environments. The researchers, led by Amina Qutub, aim to develop new treatments for diseases such as stroke and cancer.
Rice University engineers create a highly accurate, touch-free system that analyzes subtle changes in skin color to monitor patients' vital signs. The technique overcomes challenges of low-light conditions, dark skin tones and movement by averaging skin-color change signals from different face regions.
Cyclone Ikola formed quickly and strengthened to hurricane-force in the Southern Indian Ocean. NASA's MODIS instrument captured an image showing an eye with thunderstorms wrapping into the center, indicating high, strong storms with potential for heavy rainfall.
Researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital identified a protein called TREML4 that amplifies the cellular response to TLR7 receptor activation, leading to lupus symptoms. Suppressing this pathway may offer new hope for treating autoimmune disorders.
Pediatric cholesterol guidelines recommend statin treatment for individuals with elevated low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) levels. Using these guidelines for teenagers aged 17-21 would lead to an additional 400,000 young people being prescribed statins compared to adult guidelines.
A new study published in JAMA Pediatrics found that antipsychotic medications may increase the risk of type 2 diabetes in children by nearly 50% when initiating treatment. The study analyzed national Medicaid data and recommended that clinicians consider thoughtful risk-benefit consideration when prescribing these powerful medications ...
Scientists have discovered three new species of dragon-like woodlizards in the Andes of Peru and Ecuador, increasing the total number of species to 15. The new species differ from their closest relatives in scale features, coloration, and DNA.
A team of scientists plans to take core samples from the Chicxulub impact crater, 65.5 million years old and associated with the mass extinction event that wiped out dinosaurs. The expedition will aim to uncover details about the impact and shed light on the mechanisms of large impacts on Earth and other rocky planets.
A new study suggests that psychopathy is not as monolithic as believed, and many individuals with psychopathic traits are not immune to emotional distress. Researchers found that cognitive behavioral therapy and dialectical behavior therapy can be effective in managing emotions and reducing aggressive behaviors.
A study published in the Journal of Sports Medicine and Physical Fitness found that restricting the number of innings young MLB pitchers throw does not prevent injuries. Gradually increasing the total number of innings pitched per season also has no effect on young pitchers' risk of future injury.
The University of Michigan's 1000+ OBGYN Project has developed four new collections of high-quality educational materials to support obstetrician-gynecologist training in low-resource countries. These materials, made publicly available for free, cover topics such as abnormal uterine bleeding and postpartum care, and are intended to imp...
Researchers at UC Berkeley have identified a new target for cancer drugs in messenger RNA molecules, which carry unique tags that can be targeted to regulate translation. These tagged mRNAs play a key role in controlling cell growth and differentiation, making them potential targets for new anticancer therapies.
Northern coastal marshes are more susceptible to overgrazing by herbivores from nutrient-rich runoff, leading to destabilization and reduced function. This study integrates field experiments and finds that latitude plays a key role in mediating the impact of nutrient loading on plant-herbivore interactions.
A new study led by UC San Francisco documents the increasing amount of care provided in emergency departments for complex, chronic conditions. The research shows a rise in non-injury diagnoses, including gastrointestinal and nervous system disorders, among vulnerable populations.
A new study by University of California - Berkeley Haas School of Business researchers found that offering purchase subsidies to retailers can increase the availability and affordability of malaria drugs. This approach is particularly effective for long-shelf life products, such as ACTs, which are considered the best anti-malarial drugs.
A study by CU researchers found that brain activity affects the development of insulating sheaths on axons, promoting neural connections. The findings have implications for understanding psychiatric disease and tie into current conversations about the adolescent and teenage brain.
A large Australian study of 204,542 people found that vigorous physical activity can reduce the risk of early death by 9 to 13 per cent compared to moderate activity. The benefits apply to both men and women of all ages and are independent of total time spent being active.
A new study suggests that using plain language, graphics, and stories can simplify the health insurance enrollment process for people who have never had insurance before. The research found that these methods helped participants make informed choices about their coverage options and increased their confidence in their decisions.
A previously known gene has been found to act as a tumour suppressor by regulating accurate chromosome segregation. Reduced expression of the glucocorticoid receptor is associated with certain cancer cell types and malignant progression.
Rice University scientists have developed a technique called meniscus-mask lithography to create sub-10 nanometer wide wires from various materials. The method uses the curvy surface of water as a mask, enabling the production of ultra-nano structures that are crucial for miniaturizing electronic devices.
NASA's Aqua satellite captured a visible image of Tropical Storm Haishen over the Fananu and Federated States of Micronesia. The storm weakened to a tropical depression with maximum sustained winds near 25 knots, moving northwest at 7 knots.
A study by MIT economists found that increasing female candidates on electoral lists improves a party's chances of winning votes. Voter turnout did not diminish in response to more female candidates, suggesting internal party dynamics may be the main barrier to women's representation.
A team of Virginia Tech researchers has discovered a way to produce hydrogen fuel using a biological method that reduces the time and money required for its production. The new method uses abundant corn stover to create hydrogen with extremely low carbon emissions.
Researchers found metallic lead nanospheres in 3.4 billion-year-old zircons from Antarctica, which could alter ages determined using high-resolution ion probe techniques. The inhomogeneous distribution of lead in zircon might falsify ages, highlighting the need for reevaluation of geological age determination methods.
Physicist Ramon Lopez will use a combination of computer simulation models and real observations to understand the role of solar wind fluctuations in space weather. The research aims to enhance our understanding of the near-Earth space environment and provide critical information for managing satellite and communications technology.
Researchers found that liquid corn and fish fertilizers are good options for organic blackberry production, meeting plant nutrient needs except for calcium and boron. The fertilizers were effective in delivering nutrients through the drip system, but regular flushing was recommended to prevent emitter clogging.
According to a Northwestern University study, nearly 400,000 childhood cancer survivors in the US experience chronic health issues, including mental impairment, anxiety, and physical limitations. The majority face these problems five or more years after diagnosis, highlighting the need for comprehensive care.
A Yale University study found that higher breast cancer treatment costs are associated with better survival rates. Over a decade, Medicare costs increased from $18,100 to $32,600, while five-year survival improved from 38.5% to 51.9%. The cost increase was largely due to chemotherapy and radiation therapy.
A new study reveals that fishing likely contributes to population collapses in forage fish, including herring, anchovies, and sardines. The research suggests that suspension of fishing when populations fall below half their average can prevent 64% of collapses with minimal impact on fisheries.
A review of thousands of studies found that only a few dozen programs meet the scientific gold standard for reliability. Jenny Craig and Weight Watchers showed promise with participants losing more weight than non-participants in trials lasting 12 months or longer.
Research on giant tortoises in the Galapagos Islands reveals that they prefer non-native plants over native ones, with introduced species making up roughly half of their diet. The tortoises' nutritional status shows no negative effects from eating invasive plants, suggesting a potential positive impact on their health.
Researchers found that women were excluded from rtPA treatment for reasons unrelated to their sex, including advanced age and large strokes. High blood pressure was a common reason for exclusion in women, highlighting the importance of treating this condition to improve stroke treatment outcomes.
Two independent studies reveal that tumor-secreted molecule ImpL2 causes wasting syndrome, also known as cachexia, in fly cancer models. Researchers found that depletion of ImpL2 levels significantly reduced wasting in flies, suggesting new candidates for mediators of cachexia and novel therapeutic approaches.