Researchers at Vanderbilt University have discovered a novel cell signaling pathway that may provide new insights into obesity. The discovery centers on the melanocortin-4 receptor, which plays a key role in regulating appetite, and reveals a molecular mechanism for converting an on-off switch into a rheostat.
A new study published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences has found microscopic spheres of calcium phosphate in eyes with age-related macular degeneration (AMD), a leading cause of blindness. The discovery opens up new avenues for diagnosis and treatment, potentially allowing early detection and prevention of the disease.
Researchers at UCL found that people are more successful in quitting smoking, starting exercise, or losing weight when their partner makes a change. The study of over 3,722 couples aged 50+ shows that men and women are equally affected by their partners' behavior changes.
A team of researchers at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory has identified a new pathway that controls fear memories and behavior in the mouse brain. The discovery, published in Nature, reveals that the paraventricular nucleus of the thalamus plays a critical role in regulating fear learning and memory.
An international team of astronomers has observed a fast radio burst happening live for the first time, providing new insights into this mysterious phenomenon. The burst is believed to have originated up to 5.5 billion light years away, making it an extremely bright and potentially useful tool for understanding our universe.
Researchers found that B cells from mutant mice with M6P deficiency and patients with mucolipidosis II present similar defects in antibody synthesis, indicating a critical role of M6P in B cell function. Other immune cells, such as dendritic cells and T cells, were less severely affected.
Researchers from Ruhr-University Bochum found that terpenes in citrus scents can inhibit liver cancer cell growth. The study discovered the signalling pathway used by (-)-citronellal and citronellol, two terpenes with anti-cancer properties.
Scientists have identified two key factors behind sudden tectonic plate movements, including the role of thick crustal plugs and weakened mineral grains. This discovery provides new insights into the evolution of plate tectonics and its impact on Earth's climate and biosphere.
The EORTC PAMM Group discusses the importance of considering individual patient characteristics and tumor genetics in cancer treatment. Pharmacogenetics can help prescribe efficacious treatment and lower toxicity, improving patient outcomes.
A Northwestern University study reveals an automated method of analyzing movie citations outperforms human critics and crowd wisdom in predicting a film's significance. The researchers analyzed over 15,000 movies and found that the number of references by other movies is the best predictor of inclusion in the National Film Registry.
Research at RIKEN-Max Planck Joint Research Center reveals ENGase enzyme responsible for protein degradation in absence of NGLY1. Studies show that inhibition of ENGase activity may serve as therapeutic target for patients with NGLY1 mutation.
A University of Michigan-led research team found that combining bed nets and certain malaria vaccines can lead to increased morbidity and mortality in older age classes. The study suggests that the joint use of bed nets and some malaria vaccines may make the problem worse, contradicting previous assumptions.
Researchers have identified specialized cell walls in disease-resistant wheat varieties that could help produce stronger durum wheat for improved pasta production. The study found a new gene, WheatPME1, that can change the chemical structure of pectin, a key component of plant cell walls.
E-cadherin molecules form small clusters of about five molecules, which then recruit more molecules and organize into the adherens junction. The actin cytoskeleton fences these clusters, preventing them from merging to form a belt.
Scientists studied a woman with low vision since birth whose vision was restored through surgery. While the brain's visual cortex showed some plasticity, full normal functioning was not regained after several months. The study has implications for predicting outcomes in individuals considering eye surgery.
The ABC4Trust project has developed solutions to increase the trustworthiness of personal data in the Internet while offering optimal privacy protection. The project uses attribute-based credentials, which provide a type of credibility certificate from an entity trusted by the provider.
The SPECTAcolor platform has successfully implemented across 19 European clinical centers, recruiting over 500 patients and providing high-quality biological materials. Preliminary analysis reveals mutations in key cancer biomarkers, including KRAS, NRAS, BRAF, PI3K, and mismatch repair.
Researchers at the University of Manchester and University of Bari have created a biosensor that can differentiate between mirror image smells. The system uses odorant binding proteins to detect unique chemical changes, approaching human nose detection limits.
A recent study published in Clinical Infectious Diseases found that the adjusted risk ratio for heart attacks among HIV-positive patients decreased from an 80% increased risk in 1996 to no increased risk in 2010-2011. The improved care and treatments led by Kaiser Permanente's early awareness of cardiovascular disease risks have result...
Researchers discover cluttered jumble of randomly oriented nanocrystallites at interface, impeding charge-carrier mobility and device performance. A novel microscopy technique reveals the role of solution-processing methods in creating optimal film structures.
A new study found that adolescents who experience sleep difficulties and insufficient sleep are more likely to develop binge drinking, driving under the influence of alcohol, and risky sexual behavior. The study analyzed data from over 6,500 teenagers and found a strong link between poor sleep habits and substance-related problems.
Researchers used ROC curves and the Pythagoras theorem to identify the point at which a patient's health begins to improve. The study found that using Pythagoras' theorem makes a material difference in identifying improvement with more consistency and accuracy.
Tropical Cyclone Bansi's maximum sustained winds increased to 130 knots (149.6 mph) on January 15, making it a Category 4 storm. The eye decreased in size from 46 nautical miles wide to 32 nautical miles wide as the storm strengthened.
A new study by Ruud Koopmans finds that between 40-45% of European Muslims hold fundamentalist religious ideas, while Christian fundamentalism reaches 12%. The study also shows that Islamic fundamentalism decreases with higher social and economic status, but remains a significant phenomenon in Europe.
Researchers have discovered a unique case of fragile X syndrome with only two classic symptoms, allowing them to identify a previously unknown function of the gene. The study suggests that drugs recently tested as treatments for fragile X may be ineffective due to overactive transmitters.
Tropical Storm Chedza rapidly intensified from a tropical low pressure area to a tropical storm on January 16 near Madagascar's southwestern coast. The storm's maximum sustained winds were near 50 knots (57.5 mph/92.6 kph) with a defined low-level circulation center and deep convective banding.
Researchers at the University of Warwick have developed a new triggered-release mechanism for nanoparticles that could improve drug delivery and reduce side effects. The mechanism uses two nanoparticles to release medication only when taken into cells, potentially leading to more effective treatments with fewer side effects.
Researchers have developed a fluorescent hormone biosensor that reveals the dynamics of jasmonate signalling in plants, allowing for the imaging of plant defence mechanisms in real time. This breakthrough enables the study of how plants coordinate their defence responses to mechanical damage and disease.
Pre-sleep drinking causes initial increase in slow wave sleep power but also increases frontal alpha power, disrupting normal sleep properties. This can lead to detrimental effects on daytime functioning and neurocognitive processes.
The UK-led Beagle 2 Mars Lander has been found on the Martian surface, ending the mystery of its disappearance in 2003. The lander's partial deployment confirms that it successfully touched down on Mars on Christmas Day 2003.
A study by University of Cincinnati researchers found that BPA exposure affects heart function and blood pressure in mice differently for males and females. In female mice, the heart is more sensitive to stress-induced ischemic damage, leading to increased fibrosis and muscle damage.
The study reveals that 2014 was the warmest year globally since 1880, with a temperature increase of about 1.4 degrees Fahrenheit over the past century.
A team of scientists found that collisions helped transform initially porous materials into solid asteroids and meteorites by absorbing energy in the porous matrix. This process likely occurred due to electrostatics and shock waves generated by high-velocity collisions, resulting in a cosmic speed limit for colliding objects.
A recent study suggests that brain circuitry for fear retrieval shifts over time, potentially worsening symptoms of anxiety disorders. The discovery could change scientists' view of post-traumatic stress disorder and inform the development of new treatments.
New evidence from Johns Hopkins researchers reveals that RNA granules have a dynamic envelope that stabilizes them, separating them from the surrounding watery space. This discovery provides insight into how cells organize their contents and activities.
The study found that millions of dollars are spent annually on animal translocations to mitigate human interference, but outcomes are often poor and rarely monitored. Successful science-based translocations provide a model for improving mitigation efforts and achieving legislative goals for species conservation.
Researchers found that stem cells derived from amniotic tissues have immunosuppressive properties, specifically inhibiting natural killer cell activity and inducing white blood cell activation. The study identified interleukin-10 and prostaglandin E2 as key factors contributing to these effects.
Researchers at MIT have developed software that assesses risk in planning algorithms, suggesting low-risk alternatives when a solution is not possible. The system uses probabilistic models to determine the feasibility of a plan and can offer modifications to relax constraints or add resources to mitigate risks.
A new study found that bottlenose dolphins and Weddell seals experience cardiac arrhythmias during the deepest dives, with over 70% of deep dives affected. The conflicting signals to the heart from exercise-induced tachycardia and dive-induced bradycardia put the heart in an unsteady state.
Scientists will gather data on atmospheric rivers, which produce up to 50% of California's precipitation, and explore how to predict when and where they will hit land. The study aims to improve climate models and inform water management decisions during droughts and floods.
A landmark study in remote Fitzroy Valley communities in Western Australia found that one in eight children have Fetal Alcohol Syndrome, a preventable condition. The research, led by Aboriginal community leaders, provides Australia's first comprehensive data on the prevalence of Fetal Alcohol Syndrome in remote communities.
A large-scale study found rare genetic mutations in three genes (GRASP, GSDMB, and MTHFR) associated with asthma risk, but only in specific ethnicities. These findings suggest gaps in the current understanding of asthma genetics.
A University of Houston study found that performance-based funding can lead to 'creaming' effects, where institutions recruit only high-performing students. This can result in reduced admissions for at-risk students, hindering their success. The study recommends direct funding incentives and measures to support student success.
Researchers at the Douglas Mental Health University Institute found that glucocorticoid tablets can synchronize peripheral biological clocks in white blood cells, improving synchronization of the body's internal clocks. This breakthrough could lead to innovative therapies for travelers, night-shift workers, and those with sleep disorders.
Two new global maps, developed by IIASA and IFPRI, provide more accurate information on cropland extent and field size. The maps, released in the journal Global Change Biology, improve regional food security planning and local economic conditions.
Astronomers have discovered a star with three planets only slightly larger than Earth, one of which orbits in the habitable zone where surface temperatures could be moderate enough for liquid water and life to exist. The study found that these planets are about 2.1, 1.7, and 1.5 times the size of Earth.
Researchers are studying peat fire emissions, which are a major contributor to carbon emissions and climate change. The study aims to understand the impact of peatfire smoke on human health and the climate.
In 19th century New Zealand, yellowhammers were introduced to control insect pests but became a nuisance themselves. A new study reveals how they went from welcome guest to public enemy in just 15 years through careful analysis of historical documents and newspaper articles.
Tropical Storm Mekkhala's heaviest precipitation was found on its western side, with powerful convective thunderstorms dropping rain at over 2.8 inches per hour. The storm's maximum sustained winds were near 57.4 mph on January 16, with public storm warning signals raised in the Philippines.
A new study by Professor Ulf-G Meißner finds that fundamental physics constants are fine-tuned to allow for the emergence of a life-enabling universe. The researcher used high-performance computers to simulate worlds with altered light quark masses and found that variations up to 2-3% do not prevent the formation of carbon and oxygen.
A new study found that both genetic and environmental factors influence the correlation between an individual's own drinking and their peers' drinking behaviors. Genetic factors play a more significant role in adulthood, while environmental factors dominate adolescent behavior.
A study using satellite tracking reveals the home range of bearded vultures in the Pyrenees spans an average 11,700 km2, with notable differences between individuals. The birds' movements are also influenced by supplementary feeding points and predictable food sources.
The University of Texas at Austin's Center for Transportation Research is using advanced models to understand and visualize alternative solutions for traffic issues. A collaboration with the Texas Advanced Computing Center (TACC) has enabled faster simulations, allowing researchers to better analyze spatial data and gain clarity into t...
Researchers developed a new technique called proximity ligation assays (PLA) to analyze protein complexes in cancer specimens, which may aid in patient treatment decisions. By focusing on the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), they discovered that patients with high amounts of EGFR protein complexes had a better prognosis when tr...
A new study by UMass Chan Medical School found that opioids administered in the emergency room do not influence patient satisfaction scores. Factors such as wait time and communication play a greater role, according to the study's authors.
Tropical Cyclone Bansi's eye grew from 12 nautical miles to 46 nautical miles wide after re-strengthening to a Category 4 hurricane on January 15. The storm is expected to strengthen further and reach Category 5 status before weakening again over the Southern Indian Ocean.
A study published in Medical Care found that healthcare professionals who use health information technology are only slightly more likely to receive the necessary patient data for coordinated care. Despite this, many physicians still rely on non-electronic means to access patient information, highlighting ongoing challenges with health...
A new study published in Current Biology found that stress caused by being around strangers limits empathy, but playing games together can increase it. Researchers discovered that spending just 15 minutes playing Rock Band with a stranger can move them from an 'stranger zone' to an 'empathy zone'.
Researchers at NIST discover two environments for molecules in liquids and glasses, shedding light on molecular-level processes that affect protein stability. The findings provide a theoretical foundation for designing optimal sugar coatings to preserve proteins' structure intact.
The Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF) reported a 35% increase in the use of biodiversity data accessed via its open-access infrastructure. Meanwhile, web traffic saw significant annual gains, with over 1.13 million sessions logged by users from 236 countries and territories.