A yearlong study found that patiromer can reduce elevated blood-potassium levels and prevent life-threatening adverse events in patients with chronic diabetic kidney disease. The drug consistently maintained normal serum potassium levels over 52 weeks, with minimal discontinuation due to adverse events.
The ChemCam instrument on NASA's Curiosity rover has found evidence of ancient, light-colored rocks on Mars that are rich in feldspar and quartz, similar to those found in the Earth's granitic continental crust. These discoveries suggest that Mars may have had a primitive continental crust around 4 billion years ago.
Researchers at the University of Missouri have identified a link between Type 2 diabetes and damaged lymphatic vessels, which can lead to impaired immune function. The study found that an amino acid commonly found in red meat and poultry may help improve lymphatic function in individuals with Type 2 diabetes.
Researchers created the material by combining titanium and gold, resulting in an unusual magnetic property. The discovery of TiAu has significant implications for understanding magnetism and its applications, particularly in studying phase transitions at absolute zero.
Researchers at Rice University found that consistent superior e-service quality is key to winning the e-commerce battle between Amazon and Wal-Mart. The study identified four core dimensions of e-service quality, including website design, fulfilment, customer service, and security/privacy, which strongly impact overall e-service quality.
High-fat feeding, especially saturated fats, can cause impairments in critical motivation brain pathways, according to a new study published in Neuropsychopharmacology. The research found that rats fed with palm oil had blunted dopamine function, leading the brain to compensate by heightening reward-seeking behavior.
A study published in Molecular Psychiatry identified a genetic mutation linked to healthy information processing, shedding light on cognitive aging and age-related diseases. The CADM2 gene was found to be strongly associated with performance on tests of information processing speed.
Scientists designed nanoparticles that release chemotherapy drugs paclitaxel in the presence of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), which enable cancer metastasis. The system effectively delivers high doses of the drug, halting tumor growth and reducing toxicity.
Researchers at UofSC have identified a molecular pathway that promotes nerve regeneration in the central nervous system, bridging the recovery gap between peripheral and central nerves. The discovery could lead to new treatments for spinal cord and brain injuries.
A new INFORMS marketing science study reveals that peer influence among physicians can impact both trial and repeat prescription behavior for risky new prescription drugs. Physicians who are central in the social network or have middle status influence repeat prescriptions more effectively.
A novel mass spectrometry technique has enabled scientists to quantify and profile dynamic changes in lung tissue composition during regeneration. The study reveals the importance of extracellular matrix proteins in activating stem cells, offering a new avenue for treating chronic lung diseases like pulmonary fibrosis.
Researchers developed a new map of dark matter distribution using DES data, providing valuable tool for cosmology to answer questions about dark energy and dark matter. The mass map allows scientists to check their work and verify the relationship between galaxy distribution and dark matter density.
Researchers discovered that age affects the interaction between Interleukin-2 and human mesenchymal stem cells. In younger patients, IL-2 and MSCs work together to fight cancer, but older populations see impaired treatment outcomes.
Typhoon Halola's strongest sustained winds were concentrated around its center and reached near 30 meters per second, extending only 15 nautical miles from the center. The storm is expected to slowly intensify and pass just south of Wake Island on July 16.
Scientists propose using embryonic stem cells to repair damaged lung tissue, with successful results in mouse models. The study overcomes a major obstacle by harvesting stem cells from the ideal time frame for lung regeneration.
A team of scientists from NUS discovered that blue LEDs can effectively kill major foodborne pathogens, especially when combined with chilling temperatures and mildly acidic conditions. This technology has the potential to replace chemical treatments for preserving acidic foods.
Wayne State University has secured a $1.9 million NIH grant to study the role of chemokine receptor CXCR2 in regulating new blood vessel formation and enhancing endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs)-based cell therapy for vascular diseases.
A new NCI-funded study will investigate the impact of a meditation-based stress reduction program on cognitive impairment in breast cancer survivors. Researchers will assess the intervention's effects on objective and subjective cognitive functioning among 300 participants.
People diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at older ages have weaker brain connections in midlife compared to those who were diagnosed earlier, according to a new study. The research found that individuals diagnosed later in childhood had the weakest brain connectivity as they aged.
The 2013 ACC/AHA guidelines outperform the 2004 ATP III guidelines in identifying increased risk of cardiovascular disease and subclinical coronary artery disease. Statin treatment eligibility is higher among those applying the new guidelines, leading to a significant reduction in CVD events.
A new study published in PLOS Biology has discovered a way to assess future literacy challenges in children. The research centers on the child's ability to decipher speech in a chaotic, noisy environment, and found that preliterate children with brain inefficiencies are more likely to struggle with reading and language development.
Satellite data indicates Hurricane Dolores is strengthening, with colder cloud tops and increased sustained winds of near 80 mph. The storm's trajectory suggests it will continue to pull away from the coast, potentially bringing heavy rainfall and rough surf to southwestern Mexico.
A Tel Aviv University study found that hyperbaric oxygen treatment can drastically reduce or eliminate fibromyalgia symptoms, enabling patients to discontinue pain medication. The research also identified the primary factor causing fibromyalgia: brain mechanism for processing pain disruption.
Patients with COPD in remission showed improved lung function and quality of life after practicing Liuzijue qigong (LQG) for 6 months. The exercise program, combining meditation and walking, demonstrated marked benefits in mental health as well.
A new study found that long-term stimulant abuse had more significant effects on brain volume in women compared to men. Women who were previously dependent on stimulants showed significant loss of gray matter volume and vast changes in brain structures important for decision making, emotion, and reward-processing.
Researchers at University College London have investigated positronium's behavior in collisions with hydrogen, argon, helium, and carbon dioxide gases. They found a strong preference for positronium to be emitted in the forward direction, particularly when positrons hit the gas at high speed.
Scientists calculate that human activities have reduced the planet's biomass by almost half since 2,000 years ago, putting the world at risk of collapse. If left unchecked, deforestation and agriculture could deplete energy reserves, leading to devastating consequences for human survival.
A new study published in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine found that increasing numbers of overweight adolescents do not consider themselves overweight. This misperception is linked to a decline in willingness to make weight-related behavioral changes, despite being at risk for obesity.
Peter Fisher argues that homeopathy is misunderstood and that some reviews have omitted key evidence, while Edzard Ernst claims that most independent systematic reviews have failed to show homeopathy's effectiveness due to methodological flaws.
Researchers found that KLF15 helps maintain metabolic balance by controlling the availability of nutrients in the body. The discovery may also contribute to understanding diseases characterized by excessive bile acid production.
The human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine is currently required in only two US states, with vaccination coverage substantially below the Healthy People 2020 target. A recent study found that HPV vaccination rates are lower than those for other adolescent vaccines, such as hepatitis B and meningococcal conjugate vaccines.
Researchers discovered a biological test that can identify children with literacy challenges or learning disabilities long before they learn to read. The study found that pre-readers' brains inefficiently process speech against background noise, predicting future reading skills and language development.
Researchers at the University of Toronto predict which plants and animals may be vulnerable to climate change by analyzing historical data on 30 fish species in over 1,500 lakes. The study found that bass and smaller fish species can wipe out vulnerable fish species due to predation and resource competition.
Researchers say Americans fall short of recommended daily fiber intake, and choosing a variety of natural and added fibers can increase health benefits. A mix of fiber sources, including plant-based options and those with added fiber, is key to achieving optimal results.
Researchers at NREL have identified battery second-use strategies that can offset vehicle expenses while improving utility grid stability. Reusing Li-ion batteries can retain up to 70% of their initial capacity and provide a credit of $1,000 to car owners.
The EpSMon app analyzes risk factors and provides personalized advice, helping users take actions to lower their risks. With around 600,000 people in the UK affected by epilepsy, this innovative tool aims to fill the information gap left by NHS funding cuts for GP monitoring.
A research group at Hiroshima University found that downregulated spinal astrocyte connexin43 expression leads to sustained neuropathic pain following peripheral nerve injury. Restoring Cx43 function via adenovirus vector may reverse mechanical hypersensitivity and modulate glutamatergic neurotransmission.
A comprehensive genome analysis of 7 melon varieties provides new insights into phenotypic variability and selective breeding. The study identifies 902 genes potentially affected by DNA structural variations, including disease resistance and sugar metabolism.
Erlangen-based doctors have created a new classification system for brain tumors that predicts the development of gliomas with high precision. The Friedlein Grading A/B (FGA/B) system classifies tumors according to their position in the brain on routine MRI scans.
Researchers confirmed two rare pentaquark states at CERN Large Hadron Collider, resolving a 51-year-old mystery. The discovery sheds light on quark binding and has significant implications for the Standard Model.
The UK government has invested £23 million in six new multidisciplinary research centers to drive forward digital economy research, knowledge and skills. The centers will focus on various areas such as motion capture technologies, personalized products, digital creativity, and cybersecurity.
A systematic review of 24 studies found statistically significant improvement in patient outcomes with acupuncture compared to placebo acupuncture or no treatment. The findings support the potential for acupuncture as a treatment modality in dermatology.
The Paul G. Allen Family Foundation has awarded $7 million to five research teams to investigate the fundamental causes of Alzheimer's disease. The projects will focus on uncovering the biological roots of the disease, including gene combinations, white matter damage, and pH levels.
A study on White-breasted nuthatches found that environmental factors, such as temperature and rainfall, drive genetic differences between populations, rather than geographical distance. This discovery challenges the traditional view of isolation-by-distance and provides insights into species adaptation to unique habitats.
The article highlights Stanley Perlman's career journey from studying mouse viruses to researching human coronaviruses like SARS and MERS. His work demonstrates the importance of basic research in understanding virus interactions with the immune system, which can inform strategies for preventing or treating diseases.
A new vaccine patch made of dissolvable material has been shown to be effective in protecting against flu infection, with an immune reaction equal to or stronger than traditional needle-delivered vaccines. The patch is easy to use without medical personnel, making it ideal for developing countries.
A study examines the cost-effectiveness of new cholesterol guidelines, finding that a more lenient threshold may be cost-effective. The analysis suggests that shifting from a 7.5% ASCVD risk threshold to 3-4% thresholds could avert up to 160,000 cardiovascular events.
Researchers at Kyoto University successfully visualized RNA behavior within living brain tissue of mice, enabling the study of RNA distribution and its response to drugs. This breakthrough technique holds promise for accelerating the discovery and development of new drugs.
A UC Berkeley study found that mice who received cognitive training showed reduced preference for cocaine chambers, implying a protective effect on the brain's reward system. The results suggest that brief cognitive interventions may promote long-term resilience against drug-seeking behaviors.
Researchers found that standardized mortality ratios do not provide an accurate picture of how many deaths could have been avoided. Experts recommend alternative measures such as adherence to good practice guidelines and patient surveys to assess hospital quality.
Chinese scientists created a tunable membrane material that effectively recreates the quantum tunneling effect for sound waves. The material has an effective density near zero and enables high transmission around sharp corners and efficient wave splitting.
Tropical Storm Enrique was located near latitude 17.3 North, longitude 129.0 West on July 14, with maximum sustained winds of 40 mph and a central pressure of 1003 mb.
A new study by Duke University researchers found that children who are taught to be vigilant for hostility in others are more likely to exhibit aggressive behavior themselves. The four-year longitudinal study involved 1,299 children and their parents from 12 different cultural groups worldwide.
A clinical trial testing an Ebola vaccine developed on a new cell line is underway in Senegal, aiming to provide a rapid response to outbreaks. The trial uses two vaccines, ChAd3-EBO Z and MVA-EBO Z, which have shown excellent safety profiles and promise for low-cost mass production.
Researchers studied the exoskeletons of deep-sea shrimp and shallow-dwelling shrimp, revealing differences in structure and performance. The deep-sea exoskeleton is softer yet capable of withstanding temperature extremes, while the surface-shrimp exoskeleton is harder and better protects against predators.
The coffee berry borer beetle relies on its gut microbiota to break down and detoxify caffeine, a toxic compound that harms most insects. Researchers discovered 14 bacterial species in the beetles' digestive tracts that degrade caffeine, with one species possessing a gene that enables this process.
A UCLA/USC study suggests that damage to the brain's nerve fibers is likely the cause of varying recovery times after a traumatic brain injury. The research found that patients with widespread myelin damage performed 14% worse on cognitive tests and had slower wiring, while those with intact myelin recovered faster.
A study found that vaginal douching is associated with higher levels of phthalate metabolites in urine, increasing the risk of health problems. Black women are at higher risk due to frequent douching usage.
Neurophysiologists David Hubel and Torsten Wiesel won the Golden Goose Award for their work on cat vision, leading to breakthroughs in brain research, childhood cataract treatment, and computer image processing. Their lab accident resulted in new discoveries about neuroplasticity and its impact on human health.
A new study published in Radiology found that substance abuse has long-term effects on brain volume in women, with significant reductions in gray matter volume in several brain areas. In contrast, men showed no such brain changes after abstinence from stimulant use.
Researchers from Italy, Japan and Germany correlated two precise measurements of Avogadro's number to obtain a single value that can be used to redefine the kilogram. The new estimate will help expand international access to precise measurements and pave the way for a more accurate and globally accessible definition.
A team of UCLA researchers has discovered the structure of mysterious plasma waves in near-Earth space, which were first detected in the 1960s. The findings reveal a zebra-striped pattern that could explain how these waves are excited.
Researchers aim to improve crop productivity by optimizing photosynthetic efficiency, a process that has plateaued due to its inefficiency. Designs include smart canopies with layered plants and tailored light-absorbing pigments to minimize light saturation and maximize energy use.
University of Texas at Arlington professor Andrew Makeev receives a $1.35 million grant to develop more durable composite materials for aircraft, accelerating their implementation in vertical lift and fixed-wing aircraft.
A new study from Lund University found a significant correlation between low levels of the anti-stress hormone enkephalin and an increased risk of breast cancer. Women with the lowest levels of the hormone had a risk more than three times that of those with the highest levels.
A low-methionine diet can increase the vulnerability of triple-negative breast cancer cells to targeted therapies. Researchers found that depriving cancer cells of methionine triggers an increase in a receptor on the cell's surface, making them more sensitive to treatments.
Researchers at UTHealth found that mental illness was the most common reason for hospitalizing children ages 10-14, while pregnancy/birth was a leading cause for adolescents. The costs were staggering, with $51 million spent on mental disease-related hospitalizations of teens aged 15-17.
A study published in mBio reveals that multiple species of gut bacteria collaborate to protect against Clostridium difficile infections. The research used mathematical modeling and machine learning to identify key bacterial species that confer resistance or susceptibility.
A new study suggests that treating 48-67% of all adults aged 40-75 in the US with cholesterol-lowering statins would be a cost-effective way to reduce cardiovascular-related events. The researchers found that more lenient treatment thresholds could avert an additional 125,000-160,000 CVD-events.
University of Adelaide researchers found a significant correlation between brain volume and blood flow rate in primates, indicating faster cognitive ability. The study suggests that brain metabolic rate increased with brain size, leading to higher intelligence.
A new laser sensor can continuously monitor blood glucose levels without penetrating the skin, offering a pain-free alternative to traditional methods. The technology has potential to improve the lives of millions by enabling constant monitoring and self-regulation.
A study found that over 82% of people with depression in the general population are not eligible for clinical trials of antidepressant drugs. The trials use strict inclusion and exclusion criteria, which can exclude patients based on age, medical conditions, or severity of depression.
The new ACC/AHA guidelines for statin eligibility better predict cardiovascular risk by considering coronary artery plaque levels. The guidelines were found to identify adults at higher risk more accurately than previous guidelines, leading to a potential reduction of 41,000 to 63,000 cardiovascular events over 10 years.
A University of Oregon researcher found that large-scale organic farming operations are not reducing greenhouse gas emissions, despite being considered a sustainable alternative. The study suggests stricter adherence to sustainability-driven farm practices and increased governmental oversight are needed.
A recent study published in The BMJ found that taking a combination of antidepressants and common painkillers increases the risk of bleeding. The researchers analyzed data from over four million patients and found a substantially increased bleeding risk with combined use of antidepressants and NSAIDs, especially in men.
Researchers found that mesenchymal stem cells alleviate inflammation and nephritis in mice with SLE, suggesting a potential treatment for severe autoimmune diseases. The study showed that MSCs suppress T helper cell development, which helps to slow disease progression.
Cystitis affects half of women at least once in their lifetime, causing 1% of UK GP consultations. Women should be allowed to access safe treatment, like nitrofurantoin, without a prescription to improve autonomy and reduce healthcare burden.
A new study led by McMaster University professor Dr. Deborah Cook found that a program honoring patients' last wishes creates meaning, memories, and closure at death. The Three Wishes Project, which involved 40 dying patients and their families, resulted in the implementation of 97.5% of requested wishes.
For the first time, researchers have demonstrated the wavelike behavior of a room-temperature polariton condensate on a macroscopic scale. The team's work has significant implications for future technological breakthroughs, such as polariton micro-lasers and optical transistors.
A team led by Chris Saski from Clemson University will sequence the genome of Upland cotton to unlock its complex secrets, with potential benefits for plant breeding and agriculture. The project aims to improve Upland cotton fiber yield and quality, addressing global challenges like climate change and food security.
Researchers used a unique combination of tests to investigate the potential adverse effects of e-cigarette vapour on airway tissue. The results show that despite six hours of exposure, the impact of e-cigarette vapour on airway tissue is similar to that of air.
The Stephen Riady Geosciences Scholars Fund will support PhD geoscience students at NTU, focusing on research on earthquakes, volcanoes, tsunamis and climate change. The endowment aims to enhance resilience and safety in the region.
Scientists at UC Berkeley and Gladstone Institutes develop a system to grow beating cardiac tissue from stem cells, allowing for the screening of drugs that may cause cardiac birth defects. The model uses patient-derived human pluripotent stem cells to mimic early heart development.
Research suggests that fathers who read to their infants with autism and take active roles in caregiving activities can reduce mothers' depression and stress. The study found that when fathers engage in literacy and responsive caregiving activities, mothers report fewer depressive symptoms and improved well-being.
The Paul G. Allen Family Foundation has partnered with the Alzheimer's Association to award three grants totaling $500,000 to study the role of inflammation on characteristic plaques and tangles of devastating brain disease. Researchers aim to better understand the interactions between the immune system and Alzheimer's pathologies.
Middle-aged men with low bone mass can improve bone density through exercise-based interventions, such as weight-lifting and jumping programs. These exercises, completed for at least six months, increase bone mass in the whole body and lumbar spine, reducing the risk of osteoporosis.
A new study demonstrates the ability to apply a thin coating of viable respiratory epithelial cells to tissue engineered constructs using a commercially available spray device, providing a promising approach for repairing or replacing challenging structures like trachea or bronchi. The effects of air pressure and nozzle diameter on cel...
RapidScat gathered surface wind data on Tropical Storm Claudette, revealing sustained winds of 24 m/s in its eastern quadrant. The storm is moving northeast at 20 mph, with a post-tropical cyclone forecast for later tonight and potential landfall off Newfoundland.
Typhoon Nangka's strongest typhoon-force winds were located on the northern half of the storm, with speeds up to 129 kph. The storm is moving north and forecast to peak at 115 mph before weakening and making landfall in western Japan.
A new study aims to increase the accessibility of mental health research in community clinics by developing practical measures for implementing evidence-based practices. The project will explore two methods for integrating measurement-based care into routine clinical work.
A new study from Vanderbilt University Medical Center found that viruses, not bacteria, are the most commonly detected respiratory pathogens in U.S. adults hospitalized with pneumonia. The study highlights the need for more sensitive rapid diagnostic tests to identify pneumonia pathogens and target appropriate treatments.
Researchers found that children on summer break consume more sugar, watch more TV, and eat fewer vegetables than the rest of the year. Despite differences in obesity behaviors between income groups, overall patterns were similar across households above and below poverty thresholds.
Researchers have discovered a new law governing anomalous heat conduction, which scales up with temperature in a power law manner. This finding challenges previous exponential scaling predictions and provides insights into the thermal transport of electrons.
A new drug, patiromer, significantly reduced serum potassium levels in patients with diabetic kidney disease and hyperkalemia. The study found that patiromer maintained normal potassium levels over 52 weeks, with minimal discontinuations due to adverse events.
A systematic review and meta-analysis concludes that benzodiazepines are not effective for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) treatment and may even worsen symptoms. The study found that benzodiazepines were associated with no improvement in PTSD-related outcomes and increased the risk of developing PTSD in patients with recent trauma.
The determination of fundamental constants is becoming increasingly accurate, according to a review paper published this week. This will aid in the redefinition of standard scientific units, including the kilogram and the Kelvin, by 2018.