EPFL scientists found that chronic inflammation can lead to metaplasia, where regenerating cells grow into new, aberrant types. This can cause eye cells to turn into skin, resulting in blindness and disorders associated with chronic inflammation.
Benjamin Wolozin receives award for his research on Alzheimer's disease and neurodegenerative diseases. He has made significant contributions to the current field of understanding these conditions through publications and patents.
New research from Brigham and Women's Hospital found that nearly 40% of shift workers who participated in a test drive after a night shift were involved in a near-crash event. The study demonstrated an increased risk of drowsy driving related motor vehicle crashes, especially during the daytime commute.
A new open-source tool called NanoOK provides comprehensive alignment-based quality control and error profile analysis for the MinION platform. The tool is easily extensible through a Java programming interface and handles metagenomic sampling gracefully.
Researchers uncover the genetic mechanism behind the Dun pattern, a unique coat color variant that provides camouflage in wild horses. The study reveals a single gene, TBX3, determines Dun versus non-Dun color, with implications for understanding horse domestication and skin/hair development.
Researchers at MD Anderson Cancer Center identified myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) as a key player in advanced prostate cancer progression. Depletion of MDSCs and blocking specific signaling pathways showed promise in suppressing tumor growth, paving the way for potential therapeutic opportunities.
Researchers identified 52 genetic variations associated with AMD across 34 gene regions, offering hope for developing diagnostic tests and therapeutics. The study also found rare genetic variations in one subtype of AMD, which could explain why anti-VEGF therapy is less effective in some patients.
Researchers found that a crackdown on pill mills in Florida led to an estimated 1,029 fewer opioid-related overdose deaths between 2003-2012. The state's increased oversight of pain clinics may have prevented new cases of heroin addiction from developing.
A new study reveals that freshwater rivers and streams transport or store more than 220 billion pounds of carbon each year. This finds that the actual carbon storage in forests is decreased by almost 30 percent once accounting for the leaking carbon into aquatic environments.
A recent study published in CMAJ found that planned home births among low-risk pregnant women do not increase the risk of stillbirth, neonatal death, or serious events. In fact, these women were more likely to have spontaneous vaginal births and breastfeed exclusively after delivery.
A Yale team discovered that a high-fat diet can disrupt pathways involved in synaptic plasticity and metabolism, leading to depression-like symptoms. Ketamine reverses these effects, suggesting a potential solution for treating depression associated with metabolic disorders.
Scientists have discovered two critically endangered species of sea snakes off the coast of Western Australia, including the short-nosed and leaf-scaled sea snakes. The discoveries were made in Ningaloo Reef and Shark Bay, raising hopes for conservation efforts to protect these unique species.
Researchers discover a new treatment approach to neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's, Huntington's and Parkinson's. A drug called rolipram boosts the activity of the proteasome, which clears out toxic proteins from the brain.
Researchers from Monash University have developed a new image modulation technique called SWIFT to study how the brain categorizes objects. The study found that SWIFT can stimulate specific neural activity patterns in the brain, enabling greater understanding of human visual processing and its potential applications.
A new neutron study at Oak Ridge National Laboratory reveals promising results that could drastically boost the performance of solid-state electrolytes in lithium-ion batteries, leading to safer and more efficient batteries. The study found a common rule governing how dopants redistribute vacancies in garnet structures, enabling materi...
Rice University researchers found that a master regulator's activity is determined by kinetics, not thermodynamics. The study revealed the 'molecular stripping' process, which quickly stops protein production.
The US has identified key agricultural regions at high risk for wild bee decline, which could destabilize crop production. The study suggests 39% of croplands face a pollinator shortage, with the Midwest's corn belt and California's Central Valley particularly affected.
A QUT study reveals that rumble strips are effective in alerting sleepy drivers to pull over, reducing the risk of fatal crashes. The research found that drivers hit a rumble strip after 20 minutes of driving and that taking breaks and using countermeasures like napping or caffeine can increase driver alertness.
A new study by Cedars-Sinai Medical Center found that more than half of patients who experience sudden cardiac arrest ignore key symptoms prior to the event. These symptoms often include chest pain, shortness of breath, and palpitations, occurring up to a month before the fatal heart rhythm malfunction.
Researchers at Kyoto University have discovered that hot charged particles gathering near-Earth space trigger the formation of auroral substorms and bright bursts. The study uses a supercomputer simulation to explain how the plasma rotates, creating an electrical current that discharges excess electricity.
Harvard experts advocate for banning models with low BMI (below 18) from fashion shows and photo shoots to prevent life-threatening starvation and associated health problems. The authors argue that such regulations would be necessary given the prevalence of extreme thinness in the industry.
A study by Michigan State University found that scheduling irrigation according to plants' daily water use can reduce water applications by 22-28% and runoff volume by 36-67%, while decreasing nutrient loads. The technique also shows no negative impact on plant growth, offering a sustainable solution for nursery producers.
Researchers found that transradial rescue PCI was used in only 15% of cases, and those who were most prone to bleeding were more likely to be treated with transfemoral access. The study highlights the 'risk-treatment paradox,' where patients at high risk for a condition are less likely to receive aggressive treatment.
Researchers and experts advocate for increased access to drug safety and effectiveness data from Health Canada to facilitate independent scrutiny of pharmaceuticals. This push aims to motivate institutional change and improve the overall quality of regulatory decisions.
Delays in restoring blood flow after a stroke were associated with decreased benefits of intra-arterial clot-busting treatment and reduced chances for a good outcome. The chances for a good outcome were reduced by 6 percent for every hour of reperfusion delay.
A new study finds that eyewitness confidence is a strong indicator of identification accuracy, contradicting earlier lab studies. High-confidence identifications are more likely to be correct, while low-confidence ones are more likely to be incorrect.
Researchers found that wasp larvae jump towards shaded areas to develop, with lower body mass individuals experiencing more jumps. The behavior helps them survive in unfavorable environments, but comes at a cost of increased energy use.
A Vanderbilt University Medical Center study found that 25% of emergency department visits involve patients with hypertension, with a 20% increase since 2006. Uncontrolled hypertension is a significant cause of death in the US, and lifestyle factors such as medication adherence and exercise can help manage the condition.
Researchers have identified a key brain circuit involved in ketamine's antidepressant effects, offering hope for the development of fast-acting and sustained treatments for depression. The discovery could potentially reduce the risk of suicide among patients and provide a safer alternative to current medications.
Scientists at University of California, San Diego discover protein Wnt5a stimulates CLL cell growth via ROR1 and ROR2 proteins. Experimental monoclonal antibody cirmtuzumab inhibits growth and spread of cancer cells.
Shelby Cole, a first-year pharmacy student, has been awarded an Undergraduate Diversity Student supplement to study dendritic cells and contribute to her professor's research team. The grant will support her individual research project and provide opportunities for mentorship and outreach.
Researchers found that vitamin A converts 'angry' immune cells into inflammation suppressors, reducing the severity of necrotizing enterocolitis in mice. This discovery adds to evidence of vitamin A's anti-inflammatory properties and could lead to new treatments for premature infants with severe bowel disease.
Researchers at Penn State University have developed a system to replicate the formation and dissolution of liquid organelles in a lab setting. By controlling the electrostatic charge of molecules, they were able to create synthetic liquid organelles that can assemble and disassemble in a biologically-reasonable way.
A study found that postmenopausal women with periodontal disease were more likely to develop breast cancer than those without the condition. The risk was particularly high among women who had quit smoking recently, suggesting a potential link between bacterial exposure and breast cancer risk.
Researchers used COMPADRE database to study 418 plant species, finding half of variation in life history is caused by growth rate and reproductive strategy. The study suggests understanding these patterns can help predict population persistence, extinction, and diversification.
A multicenter study found that patients with low blood flow in the back of the brain are at higher risk for recurrent strokes. The study used a new MRI-based technology to identify patients who can benefit from angioplasty, which may outweigh the risks for some individuals.
Research predicts 72% of Northwest Evergreen Trees will die by 2050, with nearly 100% mortality by 2100 under projected global warming scenarios. Climate models suggest a negative feedback loop could accelerate climate change.
A new microfluidic model of the human small airway has been developed to study COPD and asthma, allowing researchers to analyze disease mechanisms, identify biomarkers, and test new drug candidates. The model recapitulates critical features of asthma and COPD with unprecedented fidelity and detail.
A new study by researchers at Karolinska Institutet found that extremely premature babies who later develop autism show distinct brain differences as early as the neonatal period. The study suggests that environmental factors can play a key role in the development of autism.
Mutations in follicular lymphoma have revealed new molecular targets for potential treatments, according to researchers at Queen Mary University of London. The mutations identified allow tumours to evade normal restrictions on growth, making existing therapies less effective.
A new study predicts that rail services in the South West of England will be disrupted for over 40 days per year by 2040 and up to 120 days by 2100 due to rising sea levels. The cost of maintaining tracks and sea defences is also expected to soar, with estimated annual costs rising from £800,000 to £5.8-7.6 million by 2040.
Researchers discovered how nucleophosmin (NPM1) transforms between two forms: a disordered monomer and a folded pentamer, influenced by phosphorylation and partner binding
A Dartmouth College-led study finds that melting sea ice will significantly increase Arctic precipitation, creating a climate feedback comparable to doubling global carbon dioxide. The researchers used isotopic compositions of precipitation to quantify the link between precipitation and sea ice change.
A 50-year study on southern giant petrels in Antarctica shows a halved population and declining breeding success. Breeding success dropped from 60% to 40% between 1996 and 2015 in selected colonies. The decline is of conservation concern, with the species' global population around 50,000 pairs.
Researchers at IST Austria have received ERC Starting Grants for their innovative projects in biochemistry and computer science, exploring the mechanisms of self-organizing properties of bacterial cells and developing new cryptographic schemes.
A new computer program, Mykrobe Predictor, quickly analyzes bacterial DNA to predict antibiotic effectiveness and detect drug-resistant infections. The software streamlines genome analysis, detecting resistance in over 99% of Staphylococcus aureus cases, with faster results for tuberculosis.
Researchers at Imperial College London have discovered two clusters of genes linked to human intelligence, which may influence cognitive functions such as memory and attention. The study provides new insights into the genetic basis of intelligence and may lead to future treatments for neurodevelopmental diseases.
The study analyzed the fossil record and found a burst of evolution into new forms, followed by specialization that resulted in modern mammal groups. The team built an updated tree of life containing over 177 species, revealing a significant increase in mammal diversity after the extinction event.
A team of Cornell engineers developed an atomically thin photodetector that responds to light in near-instantaneous electrical current. The device achieved intrinsic response times as short as 3 picoseconds, surpassing current technology.
A recent study found a significant network of genes influencing cognitive abilities in both healthy individuals and those with neurodevelopmental disorders, such as autism and schizophrenia. The discovery provides an alternate starting point for developing therapies targeting these disorders.
The US Department of Energy is awarding $13.5 million to improve sorghum's productivity under resource-limited conditions. This project will lead to strategies to increase plant biomass and more water-efficient sorghum crop systems, benefiting the rural economy and advancing a carbon-neutral energy market.
Researchers have developed new mathematical approaches to understand stem cell function, nutrient signaling, and brain development. The models provide insights into the complex interactions between stem cells and neural tissues, shedding light on phenomena such as differentiation and cortical formation.
Researchers have identified 52 genetic variants associated with AMD, including associations between CFH and TIMP3 genes and the extracellular matrix. The study provides a framework for future studies of AMD biology and therapy development.
A study compared 35 basil cultivars and two hydroponic systems, finding that plant performance is more closely related to the choice of cultivar than the system used. Basil fresh weights varied significantly among cultivars, with some producing moderate-high yields.
A genetic mutation in the alpha-catenin 1 gene (CTNNA1) causes a butterfly-shaped pigment accumulation in the macula of the eye, leading to severe vision loss. The finding may have relevance to understanding macular degenerative diseases.
A majority of hematologic oncologists report that end-of-life discussions happen too late, with most discussions occurring when death was clearly imminent. The delay may be attributed to the curative potential of many advanced hematologic cancers, leading to a lack of clear distinction between curative and palliative care phases.
A new study by Colorado State University's Paul DeMott confirms that sea spray aerosols from oceans have a unique impact on cloud formation and duration. These particles initiate the formation of ice and affect the composition and radiative properties of clouds, which in turn influence climate and precipitation.
A Kaiser Permanente study found that exchanging secure emails with doctors improved overall health for 32% of patients with chronic conditions. Patients who used email as their first method of contact reported reduced phone contacts and in-person visits.
A study by researchers at the University of Pittsburgh found that the circadian rhythm of gene activity changes with aging, leading to altered sleep and cognitive patterns. The team identified core genes that make up the molecular clock in the prefrontal cortex, which may explain some age-related alterations in brain function.
A study published in Nature Medicine found that enhancing proteasome activity with drugs during early stages of Alzheimer's disease may prevent dementia and reduce brain damage. Researchers identified a potential therapeutic target, rolipram, which activates the proteasome system to clear out toxic proteins.
Researchers at MIT have developed a new technique for trapping hard-to-detect molecules using forests of carbon nanotubes. The team created a three-dimensional array of permeable nanotubes within a microfluidic device, which they coated with polymers to capture specific bioparticles.
Researchers found that Rudolph's luminescent nose is effective as a fog light due to its maximum level of redness visible to mammals. However, excessive heat loss poses a risk to Rudolph's hypothermia, highlighting the importance of high-calorie foods.
Aryeh Warmflash, a Rice University professor, has received a prestigious NSF CAREER Award to investigate the mechanisms of embryonic cell differentiation. He aims to develop theoretical models to predict patterns of cell development and engineer embryonic-like systems.
Scientists discovered twisted magnetic fields in dusty disks orbiting young stars, affecting disk growth. The study used the VLA radio telescope to observe a 750-light-year-old protostar in Perseus, finding millimeter- to centimeter-sized particles in the disk.
A new international study developed a framework to explain Earth's diverse plant growth forms, functions, and ecological roles. The framework predicts plant population responses to environmental change, offering insights into land recovery projects.
A new study finds that Arctic tundra releases at least as much methane during its cold season as it does during summer, challenging current climate change models. The research team found that up to half of annual methane emissions occur in the cold months, with drier tundra sites emitting more methane than wetland sites.
A new study analyzing six years of sales data from over 1,700 supermarkets across the U.S. found that small price differences can significantly shift consumer demand towards healthier low-calorie alternatives, particularly among low-income consumers. The study's results suggest that a 'fat tax' of just 5-10% can be effective in reducin...
The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston (UTHealth) has been awarded nearly $5.7 million in grants to support various cancer research projects and training initiatives. The grants will fund projects that increase breast and cervical cancer screening among Hispanics, as well as raise awareness about the human papillomavi...
A team of scientists has discovered the precise timing of myosin's power stroke, a process that generates movement in muscles. The findings reveal that the lever arm swing 'gates' phosphate release, enabling myosin to efficiently generate force and motion.
A new study published in Current Anthropology found that religion often created strong ties within communities, impeding the creation of state institutions. In contrast, elites in other regions used their religious roles to mediate between their communities and gods, leading to conflict with traditional leaders.
A recent study suggests targeted alpha therapy could be effective in eliminating HIV-infected cells in the central nervous system. The therapy uses a specific human antibody labelled with bismuth-213 to target and destroy infected cells while sparing healthy ones.
Researchers at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln have developed a laser-based X-ray machine that can detect nuclear materials hidden behind thick shielding or smuggled in cargo containers. The technology offers several advantages, including low radiation levels and portability, making it a potential tool for nuclear site inspections.
Researchers have discovered that yeast cells use a complex protein structure, called the polarity site, to detect scent gradients. This site moves along the membrane towards the strongest signal before creating a bulge in the cell to grow towards its source.
Two-year-olds demonstrate impressive touch-screen skills, able to swipe, unlock, and search for features. Researchers suggest this technology may aid in childhood development assessment and early intervention.
Researchers found that waves driven by moderate storms cause the most loss in salt marshes, not severe events like hurricanes. This knowledge brings new tools for managing and restoring wetlands, enabling predictions of erosion based on wind and wave climates.
A Massachusetts General Hospital-led study found that economic opportunity is significantly associated with community health outcomes. Regions with lower economic opportunity had higher mortality rates, prevalence of smoking and obesity, and greater risk factors like hypertension and diabetes.
Researchers at the University of Zurich found that a handful of positive experiences with strangers can increase empathy by triggering a learning effect in the brain. This leads to stronger empathic brain responses towards out-group members, driving more compassionate behavior.
A new study from Ohio State University found that smokers who saw graphic warning labels on cigarette packs had more negative feelings about smoking and were more likely to consider quitting. The study suggests that graphic images can be an effective way to discourage smoking, contrary to a federal appeals court's previous ruling.
A new analysis found that nearly 60% of metastatic cancer patients experience some change in employment due to illness. Controlling symptoms is key for many patients to remain employed, with better performance status and non-Hispanic White ethnicity/race being associated with continued work.
Researchers found hyperconnectivity between brain networks in adolescent boys with Internet gaming disorder, which may help them respond to new information but also increase distractibility and poor impulse control. The study provides insights into the neural basis of compulsive video game play.
Researchers discovered that birds use well-controlled changes to the nanostructure of their feathers to create multi-coloured plumage. This innovative approach could lead to synthetic materials with long-lasting colours.
A recent study published in Annals of Internal Medicine found that patients with sudden cardiac arrest who received medical attention shortly after exhibiting warning signs had a significantly higher chance of survival compared to those who ignored their symptoms. Researchers collected data from survivors, family members, and medical r...
New research shows that interventions targeting individual students can improve the classroom environment, triggering second-wave benefits for all classmates. The study found that sharing a classroom with more students who participate in an intervention boosts all students' grades beyond initial benefits.
A new flow battery technology using organic aqueous materials is expected to cost 60% less than current standard flow batteries. The battery's active materials are inexpensive organic molecules, making it a more sustainable and environmentally friendly option.
Scientists have identified a new type of epigenetic modification that directly affects the base A in human and mouse DNA. This discovery suggests that many more DNA modifications exist than previously thought, which could impact gene regulation and human health.
Scientists have developed a new treatment strategy that restores a brain region controlling emotions and reduces chronic pain behavior in animal models. The combined drugs target brain circuits and eliminate chronic pain when administered together shortly after an injury.
Dr Eric Robinson's £500,000 grant aims to develop a theoretical model on why portion size affects energy intake. The study seeks to identify optimal reductions in portion size to promote long-term weight loss.
A study published in Open Chemistry reveals that black raspberries grown in Central Europe have three times more antioxidants than other berries, including phenolics and anthocyanines. This makes them a potential staple for a healthy diet throughout the seasons.
Water molecules on the surface of perovskites exhibit unusual behavior, where they split into two parts but continue to interact through weak hydrogen bonds. This interaction causes the OH group to circle the hydrogen atom like a dancer spinning on a pole, a phenomenon predicted by theory and confirmed through experiments.
Researchers have developed models to rationalize the action of chemotherapeutic molecules on body cells, enabling better understanding of how drugs interact with biological targets. The study aims to improve the design of new therapeutic molecules, resulting in more effective and side-effect-free drugs.
Research by University of Notre Dame professors Darcia Narvaez and colleagues found that childhood experiences meeting evolved needs lead to better outcomes in adulthood. Adults who received more physical affection, playful interactions, and supportive care had lower depression and anxiety, greater empathy, and improved moral capacities.
A new study found that a three-step intervention can increase the likelihood of hiring women in STEM faculty positions, making up for the current dearth of women in the field. The results show search committees in the intervention group were 6.3 times more likely to make an offer to a woman candidate.
Scientists used a database of 418 plant species to analyze patterns in growth, reproduction, and survival. They found that two characteristics - growth rate and reproduction strategy - can predict population growth and response to disturbances.
Researchers found elevated concentrations of synaptic soluble amyloid-β (Aβ) oligomers in early-stage AD patients compared to controls. The study suggests that therapies targeting synaptic Aβ oligomers may be more effective than anti-amyloid therapies in preventing or delaying AD-related dementia.
Berkeley Lab researchers developed a novel glass-polymer hybrid electrolyte that is compliant and conductive at room temperature. The new material shows signs of being compatible with promising next-generation cathode candidates such as sulfur and high-voltage lithium nickel manganese cobalt oxide.
A large inner city hospital in England found that almost three-quarters of weekend emergency care cases are linked to excess alcohol intake, resulting in significant costs for urban emergency care departments. The analysis, published online, reveals substantial costs for treating alcohol-related cases, with an annual bill of £1 million.
A recent study shows that material purchases provide repeated doses of happiness over time, whereas experiential purchases offer a more intense but fleeting experience. Researchers found that people felt more satisfaction with experiential purchases six weeks after Christmas.
Researchers pinpoint child-pedestrian behaviors that lead to auto accidents, revealing age-related differences in hazard perception. Children as young as 13 need training to recognize road crossing hazards and distinguish safe from hazardous situations.
A study of women's experiences with labor delays found that many are willing to abandon their ideal birth plans for a safe delivery. The key challenge for healthcare professionals is to effectively transition from choice to care in uncertain situations.
The WATCHMAN device is more cost-effective than warfarin and NOACs for reducing strokes in patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation, according to a study led by Dr. Reddy. The device achieved cost effectiveness relative to warfarin at seven years and NOACs at 16 years, generating annual cost savings thereafter.
A Yale University study found that group prenatal care substantially improves health outcomes for both mothers and their infants. Women who received group care had lower rates of small birth size, preterm delivery, and low birthweight compared to those with individual care.
A study by Purdue University researchers found that LED lighting did not negatively affect greenhouse tomato fruit quality and demonstrated a potential alternative to overhead HPS supplementation. Physicochemical measurements showed slight variation among fruits grown under different lighting regimes.
A new study finds that prehistoric farming and non-farming societies in North America and Europe experienced the same long-term annual growth rate of 0.041 percent, challenging the notion that agriculture accelerated population growth.