A study of college-aged women found that those with stronger emotional connections to Facebook are less likely to struggle with risky dieting behaviors. However, if they compare their bodies to friends' online pictures, it's the opposite: more concern about body size and shape, and more risk of dieting behaviors.
A new study reveals that marine species in Eastern Australia are responding quickly to climate warming, with swimming ability and large range sizes emerging as crucial factors. The findings have important implications for predicting how different species will respond to climate change and identifying those most at risk.
The increasing levels of fossil fuel emissions could dilute radioactive carbon-14 in the atmosphere, artificially raising its age. This could impact various applications of radiocarbon dating, including archaeology, art authentication, and neurological research, potentially affecting results by the 2020s.
Phytoplankton, the base of marine food chains, may experience significant changes due to ocean acidification, with some species dying out while others thrive. The study found that increased acidity could lead to altered competition among species, affecting entire ecosystems and potentially impacting predators like polar bears.
Regular alcohol consumption is associated with lower levels of disability in individuals with chronic widespread pain. Those who drank moderate amounts (21-35 units/week) were 67% less likely to experience disability compared to non-drinkers.
A new study suggests that a change in the recommended Pap smear schedule for young women under 25 may have dramatically lowered the chances of getting tested for chlamydia. With the addition of a reminder system, clinic visits led to increased chlamydia screenings among this age group.
A study by North Carolina State University found that Angelina Jolie's announcement about her BRCA1 gene testing led to increased intentions among women to get tested for the same gene. Women who identified with Jolie or felt a parasocial relationship with her were more likely to consider genetic testing.
Researchers found that strategic practices can reduce California almond production's carbon footprint, utilizing co-products for renewable power generation. Ideal circumstances could make California almonds carbon-neutral or even carbon-negative through improved orchard biomass utilization.
Saint Louis University research finds that a woman's weight during her first pregnancy can affect complications in her second baby. Women who were underweight or obese during their first pregnancy had increased risks of early birth, low birth weight, and other complications.
Researchers applied established methods to study wood, finding a universal pattern of response similar to avalanches. The discovery could help predict failure and prevent damage in industries like furniture and construction.
Jennifer Tour Chayes of Microsoft receives the highest honor from SIAM, awarded for her groundbreaking work on phase transitions in mathematics and computing. She will deliver a prize lecture on massive networks on August 12.
Researchers find that presenting a new outcome instead of omitting an expected threat can lead to more effective fear extinction in both rats and humans. The study's findings have implications for the treatment of anxiety disorders, including posttraumatic stress disorder and phobias.
A large-scale genetic study has discovered that the regions of the genome underlying inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) are consistent across diverse populations. The study included nearly 10,000 DNA samples from East Asian, Indian or Iranian descent and an existing set of 86,640 samples drawn from Europe, North America and Oceania.
Researchers found that total knee replacement reduces knee pain and improves subjective quality of life indices in rheumatoid arthritis patients. However, improvements were not as great as those experienced by osteoarthritis patients.
A recent study has identified 53 key genes involved in fish's ability to adapt to warmer temperatures over multiple generations. The research found that metabolic and immune genes play a crucial role in enabling fish to cope with higher temperatures, improving their chances of survival in a changing climate.
A global study found that large animals consume a broader range of seed sizes than previously thought, posing a risk to smaller plant species. The research, led by UNSW Australia scientists, analyzed over 13,000 animal-seed interactions and showed that even small seeds are vulnerable if large animals disappear.
A six-year longitudinal study found that adolescents are most likely to enjoy successful long-term friendships with those who share similar traits. The strongest predictors of friendship dissolution were differences in sex, physical aggression, and being liked by other children.
A new mouse model has provided early causal evidence that weekly alternating light-dark cycles may hasten certain health risks, including breast cancer development and weight gain. The study found that mice with a genetic predisposition to breast cancer developed tumors 8 weeks earlier when exposed to the alternative light-dark cycles.
Researchers are collecting data from children with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) to identify non-invasive biological markers for diagnosis, tracking, and assessment. The study aims to advance treatment research in autism by creating methods to measure social function and develop indicators of long-term clinical outcome.
A study found that antibiotic exposure is associated with a higher risk of developing juvenile arthritis in children, particularly those with upper respiratory tract infections. Researchers suggest that antibiotics may be a marker for abnormal immunity rather than a direct cause of the disease.
A study has identified a potential link between inflammation caused by rheumatoid arthritis and the development of heart valve disease, including aneurysms. The research team hopes that existing medicines that dampen inflammation could be repurposed to treat heart valve diseases.
A new study by Cornell's Food & Brand Lab analyzed 50 years of New York Times food stories to predict a country's obesity level in three years. The study found that countries with more mentions of sweet snacks tend to be fatter, while those with more vegetable and fruit mentions are skinnier.
Researchers at Georgia Institute of Technology find that mixing amino and hydroxy acids with wet-dry cycles can create polypeptides, key components of life. The process, which could have occurred in a drying puddle, supports the theory that life began on dry land.
Researchers found mathematical evidence that Michelangelo used the Golden Ratio in 'The Creation of Adam'. The ratio, 1.6, enhances structural efficiency and beauty in art.
The HPTN 052 study demonstrates that early antiretroviral therapy significantly reduces HIV transmission in serodiscordant couples, with a sustained 93% reduction when the HIV-infected partner is on treatment and viral load suppressed. The trial also found that timely ART initiation can lead to improved health outcomes.
The STEMPREP Project at SMU aims to create diversity in STEM fields by recruiting minority middle school students for a 10-year program. Eighty-three percent of program participants pursue graduate school and go on to become physicians, pharmacists, or engineers.
A systematic evidence review suggests that cognitive decline following invasive heart procedures is unlikely in older adults, with little to no difference found between treatment groups. However, individual study quality was low and more research is needed to confirm these findings.
The MCW Medical Scientist Training Program will provide a stipend and full tuition scholarship to students pursuing a dual MD-PhD degree. The grant supports the growth of physician scientists conducting research in basic sciences with academic careers in medicine.
Researchers have successfully mapped key functional genes in bacterial species that play central roles in maintaining ecological balance. This knowledge may lead to targeted interventions to restore ecosystem health, such as supporting keystone bacteria to mitigate diseases like Parkinson's.
A new technology called Sticky-flares offers the first real-time method to track and observe RNA distribution in living cells. The tool helps scientists understand the complexities of RNA better than any analytical technique, with potential applications in disorders such as mental disability, autism, and cancer.
Hereditary angioedema type III is caused by a mutated blood protein factor XII that leads to excessive bradykinin production and vessel leakage. Researchers have identified a natural inhibitor that can block the mutated protein, providing hope for a new treatment.
A study of 85 common chemicals found that 50 disrupted cell function in ways correlated with early cancer patterns. The researchers suggest these molecules may be acting in synergy to increase cancer activity.
NIST researchers found that hydrogen-specific steel pipelines can cost 68% more than natural gas pipelines due to damage caused by hydrogen over time. However, they also propose modifying industry codes to allow the use of higher-strength steel alloys without thicker pipe walls, resulting in a net cost reduction.
Researchers at Duke University discovered that tapeworms in babies' guts can shield their brains from long-term learning and memory problems caused by newborn infections. Expectant mothers who had tapeworms passed on protection to their worm-free offspring, suggesting the benefits began early in life.
A team of researchers from NTNU clarified a crucial step in the mechanism that allows mycobacteria to evade the immune system by hiding in macrophages. This finding adds to our understanding of the general mechanisms of how the immune system works, particularly in relation to inflammation and its regulation.
Research published in the American Heart Association's journal Circulation found that blacks are more likely to experience sudden cardiac arrest, particularly at younger ages. The study also identified a higher prevalence of non-coronary heart problems among black patients, including congestive heart failure and left ventricular hypert...
MetLife Foundation and GHR Foundation received the Jerome H. Stone Philanthropy Award for their significant investment in Alzheimer's research, totaling over $32 million. The awards recognize their impact on accelerating global efforts to eliminate Alzheimer's disease.
Scientists have developed a new class of monoclonal antibodies that target misfolding proteins in neurodegenerative diseases. The antibodies successfully reverse damage to brain tissue in animals, suggesting a potential therapeutic agent for Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases.
A recent study from the University of Edinburgh found that a slow-down in global warming is likely due to natural variation and not a sign of climate change ending. The research analyzed over 200 years' worth of temperature data and supported previous findings that short-term pauses are temporary.
A study of over 6,000 Kaiser Permanente members found that 58% used chiropractic care or acupuncture for chronic pain, yet many didn't discuss it with their primary care providers. The majority of patients would share this information if asked, highlighting the need for better care coordination.
A new study published in Circulation reveals African-Americans experience sudden cardiac arrest at a higher rate than Caucasians, with significant differences in age, diabetes prevalence, and hypertension rates. The study suggests that prevention strategies may need to be tailored to different racial and ethnic groups.
A new study by the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio found that mothers with chemical intolerances are two to three times more likely than other women to have a child with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Children of these mothers reported having more illnesses an...
Researchers found that Arctic sea ice experienced a significant increase in volume after a cool summer in 2013, contrary to expected long-term decline trends. This suggests the ice pack is more sensitive to summer melting than winter cooling, enabling better predictions of future changes.
Researchers at Harvard Medical School and Massachusetts General Hospital developed two new strategies to reduce off-target effects of CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing. These techniques use truncated guide RNA molecules and the addition of a FokI domain to the Cas9 protein, resulting in highly specific genome editing.
Researchers have reclassified the wasp genera Microplitis and Snellenius as separate genera, shedding light on their unique characteristics. The study identifies 28 new moth predator species within the two groups, highlighting their specialized host relationships and habitat specificity.
A new T cell receptor therapy achieved a clinical response in 80% of multiple myeloma patients with advanced disease. The treatment, which targets cancer cells expressing NY-ESO-1, showed no cytokine release syndrome cases and impressive durable T cell persistence.
A Northwestern University study found that music training during high school can enhance the teenage brain's responses to sound and sharpen hearing and language skills. The research suggests that music instruction helps improve critical skills for academic success, potentially offsetting negative influences of poverty on sound processing.
The NIH is supporting a multi-year project to develop and improve clinical research tools for studying social impairment in children with autism. The project aims to create reliable tools for assessing potential treatments, which will aid in precision medicine approaches.
A new study by Northwestern University and the U.S. Department of Energy's Argonne National Laboratory found that perovskite solar modules have a significantly shorter energy payback time than existing options, with some models returning energy investment in just two to three months. The researchers also analyzed the environmental impa...
Researchers have created a 3D-printed wireless sensor that can detect signs of spoilage in food, such as changes in milk's electrical characteristics. The technology has the potential to provide food safety alerts for consumers and customize electronic devices for packaging and health applications.
Researchers at Stanford University School of Medicine have developed a database that integrates gene expression patterns of 39 types of cancer with data on patient survival rates. The PRECOG database identifies key pathways and genes associated with poor or good survival outcomes, including FOXM1 and KLRB1.
NASA satellite data shows Tropical Cyclone Halola getting stronger with strongest sustained winds appearing on the northeastern side as strong as 22 meters per second. The storm's cloud top temperatures are also getting colder, indicating more uplift or strength in the storm, potentially leading to heavy rainfall and thunderstorms.
A recent study found that marijuana use among teens is increasing, particularly among black teens, while cigarette and alcohol use are decreasing. The study analyzed data from over 600,000 high school seniors between 1976 and 2013 and found a marked decline in cigarette use and an increase in marijuana use.
A third of insured breast cancer survivors in Appalachia are not taking critical follow-up treatment, despite having insurance that would cover it. Researchers found that geographical barriers, slower adoption of new technologies, and lack of proper counseling on medication side effects contribute to the issue.
A clinical trial found that patients with activated B-cell-like (ABC) subtype of DLBCL responded better to ibrutinib than those with germinal center B-cell-like (GCB) subtype. This study suggests the use of ABC gene signature to identify patients likely to respond to the drug.
Researchers found that infants as young as 5-7 months can use their expectations to rapidly shape their developing brains. Brain activity was detected in visual areas even when the image didn't appear as expected, indicating the brain's ability to set up expectations about incoming events.
A Mayo Clinic study has identified abnormalities in the levels and processing of ribonucleic acids (RNA) in patients with sporadic and genetic forms of ALS. The findings, published in Nature Neuroscience, suggest that different factors may contribute to the development of ALS and highlight the need for tailored therapies.
HPTN 067 study finds that high-risk populations in Bangkok, Harlem, and South Africa can adhere to daily PrEP regimens with high levels of coverage and satisfaction. The study suggests that non-daily dosing regimens could be a cost-effective alternative for increasing accessibility to PrEP.
Researchers propose a new mechanism to explain how financial crises happen, focusing on debt priorities and multiplex networks. They find that at least 50% of debts in the market should be senior debts to minimize systemic risk.
Researchers discovered a messenger molecule that encourages bacteria to colonize catheters in mice, forming biofilms. The study highlights the importance of understanding biofilm formation to develop more effective therapies for infections like those caused by Pseudomonas aeruginosa.
The Alzheimer's Association honored four leading scientists, including Alison Goate, Bengt Winblad, John Hodges, and Ian McKeith, for their groundbreaking research on Alzheimer's disease and dementia. The recognition aims to accelerate the global effort to eliminate Alzheimer's and advance research towards new treatments.
Researchers at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia discover that modulating basic biological processes like protein translation and autophagy improves health in mitochondrial disease, opening a new arsenal of therapies. Several existing human drugs show significant beneficial results, including rapamycin and probucol.
Research by Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center found that children hospitalized for bronchiolitis and pneumonia tend to live in areas with less optimal socioeconomic conditions. The study identified specific inner-city neighborhoods as 'hot spots' for hospitalization, suggesting targeted prevention and cost containment efforts.
The Alzheimer's Association recognized MetLife Foundation and GHR Foundation for their significant investments in Alzheimer's research and public information programs. These foundations have supported over $32 million in research initiatives, including prevention studies and innovative approaches to Alzheimer's care.
A large-scale study of over 30,000 men found no link between testosterone therapy and venous thromboembolism. The study suggests that testosterone therapy is not associated with an increased risk of blood clots in veins, which is a common cardiovascular illness.
EPFL scientists have shown that electrons can jump through spins much faster than previously thought, challenging the notion of intermediate steps between spin jumps. The finding has profound implications for both technology and fundamental physics and chemistry, potentially offering long-awaited solutions to spintronics limitations.
Researchers at the University of Copenhagen have developed a novel technique to improve glycoprotein-based pharmaceuticals, resulting in better therapeutic effects, longer durations, and faster production. The technology holds considerable potential for improving existing pharmaceuticals and has been published in Nature Biotechnology.
Researchers have created complex nanoforms displaying arbitrary wireframe architectures using novel organizational principles. These structures include symmetrical lattice arrays, quasicrystalline patterns, and 3D objects with precise control over branching and curvature.
Researchers identified a subset of genes known as biomarkers that define a genomic subtype of prostate cancer more common in African American men. This subtype signals a more aggressive disease and is defined by the absence or low levels of three genes: ERG, ETS, and SPINK1.
The CRISPR/Cas system has revolutionized biological research, enabling targeted DNA changes in living cells. This innovation is now being applied to clinical medicine, promising significant advancements in drug therapies, agriculture, and food products.
Research reveals that stored memories are coded as permanent changes in neuronal communication and connection strength, influencing response behavior and gene expression. The study demonstrates that spine calcium responses can undergo long-term enhancement through ryanodine receptor activation.
A new study found that marine species with wide-ranging habitats and high adult mobility are best able to adapt to warmer waters, with fish exhibiting the largest range shifts. Meanwhile, small-ranged species are in increased jeopardy as oceans continue to warm.
Waldman will lead research on STAG2, a gene commonly mutated in human cancer, aiming to understand its role in Ewing sarcoma and develop new therapies. The $250k grant from Alex's Lemonade Stand Foundation Innovation Grant will support Waldman's two-year project.
Researchers found iron-laden microglia in specific brain regions of Alzheimer's patients, which could aid in earlier diagnosis and monitoring using advanced MRI techniques. The study suggests a new suspect for the disease, contradicting the long-held hypothesis that amyloid plaques are the primary cause.
A new study by Georgia State University researchers found that state regulations significantly influence when patients receive cancer diagnoses, particularly among people under 65. The study suggests that where people live is a strong predictor of whether they will receive potentially life-saving cancer screenings.
Researchers found that just ten diseases account for around 50% of all published knowledge on diseases at the wildlife-livestock interface. The study emphasizes the need for sustained investments in research to evaluate risks and improve responses to disease epidemics in animals and humans.
Patients with advanced disease experienced significant clinical response after receiving genetically engineered T-cells. The therapy was generally well-tolerated and showed long-term ability to fight tumors.
Women perceive normal-looking genitals in men with distal hypospadias as comparable to those without the condition. The study aims to alleviate shame or impaired genital perceptions about penile appearance.
Marine species with wide-latitude ranges and high adult mobility are extending their territories fastest in response to climate change. This study provides new insights into how different traits impact marine animals' ability to adapt to warmer oceans.
The six-month-long eruption produced around 1.6 km3 of lava and 12m tonnes of SO2 emissions, affecting Iceland and parts of Europe. Monitoring stations recorded high SO2 spikes in Ireland, Austria, and other countries, with levels exceeding European health limits.
Researchers at Yale School of Medicine have successfully treated patients with moderate to severe eczema using a rheumatoid arthritis drug. Treatment led to dramatic improvement in itch, sleep, and skin redness, offering hope for a new standard of care for the chronic condition.
Researchers developed a 'Cytosponge' to collect cells from the gullet, reducing variation between biopsies. The study found patterns of mutations that provide a 'fingerprint' of cancer causes, helping doctors catch the disease earlier.
The Breakthrough Prize Foundation has committed $100 million to UC Berkeley and other institutions to lead a comprehensive scientific search for extraterrestrial intelligence. The initiative, called Breakthrough Listen, will utilize radio and optical telescopes to gather and analyze data from the universe.
Francis Clarke of Université Claude Bernard is the recipient of the 2015 W.T. and Idalia Reid Prize, awarded by the Society for Industrial and Applied Mathematics (SIAM). He received a cash prize of $10,000, an engraved medal, and delivered a prize lecture on definitions and hypotheses in control theory.
Scientists at TGen are developing an accurate diagnostic test for Lyme disease using targeted DNA sequencing, which can pinpoint the presence and severity of tick-borne Lyme disease. The new test aims to provide actionable information for physicians and improve treatment outcomes.
The American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology recommends eight steps to make the scientific enterprise sustainable, including predictable funding and reduced regulations. The recommendations aim to spur action and implement changes at institutions and within the government.
Erectile dysfunction is linked to a higher risk of undiagnosed diabetes. Additionally, a study found that ACA Medicaid expansion increased demand for primary care services. Furthermore, sleep apnea may increase the risk of developing panic disorder, while changes in cervical cancer screening guidelines resulted in decreased chlamydia s...
Researchers used dynamical systems theory to understand the origins of plant and animal domestication. They found that changes in resource density, mobility, and population size brought societies closer to or further away from adopting food production. This insight may help explain why farming emerged in some places at different times.
A study published in Psychological Science found that individuals who perceive themselves as experts are more likely to claim knowledge of fake information. This phenomenon, known as 'overclaiming,' can lead to uninformed decisions with devastating consequences.
Freshwater prawns can help control schistosomiasis by preying on parasite-infected snails, providing a source of protein-rich food and reducing the disease burden. The study suggests that stocking prawns in rivers could be an effective natural solution for controlling the disease.
Researchers found that 35% of patients with early-onset colorectal cancer (diagnosed before age 35) have a genetic disease, highlighting the need for genetic counseling to identify high-risk family members. Gene panel testing is recommended to uncover underlying mutations, allowing for preventive measures and earlier screening.
A study found that low-income children had atypical structural brain development and lower standardized test scores. Developmental lags in the frontal and temporal lobes may explain up to 20% of the achievement gap.
A small clinical trial suggests that a genetically-enhanced stem cell therapy can improve blood flow in the lungs and enhance exercise ability in patients with PAH. The therapy was generally well-tolerated, but one patient died after treatment due to severe disease progression.
A new theory proposes that a planet's bulk composition, specifically the abundance of uranium, thorium, and potassium, dictates whether plate tectonics can occur. This affects the planet's internal heating, volcanism, and climate. The Earth's unique composition allows for current plate tectonics to operate.
The T1DAL study found that alefacept treatment preserved beta cell function in 30% of participants with new-onset type 1 diabetes. Alefacept also reduced insulin dose requirements and major hypoglycemic events compared to the placebo group.
A decade-long NIH-funded trial found that antiretroviral therapy consistently suppresses HIV, greatly reducing sexual transmission to uninfected partners. The study demonstrates the enduring power of HIV-controlling treatment in protecting heterosexuals from transmission.
Scientists have discovered a mutated gene, JMJD1C, responsible for cases of unknown origin intellectual disability and autism. The study analyzed the genome of 215 patients with these conditions and found that this gene contributes to Rett syndrome.
A new laser ablation resonance ionization mass spectrometry technique has successfully dated an Earth rock analogous to the rocks covering one-third of the Moon's nearside. This breakthrough enables direct dating of lunar terrains, filling a critical gap in understanding the Solar System's history.
Research reveals that wastewater discharge concentrations of cocaine, morphine, and oxycodone remain relatively consistent downstream, indicating ineffective removal by treatment plants. The findings emphasize the importance of improving wastewater treatment to protect potable water sources.
BEACON researchers explore evolutionary dynamics of disease, antibiotic resistance, and climate change using digital organisms, aiming to develop robust solutions for industrial and societal problems. The grant renewal enables further breakthroughs in understanding and harnessing evolution in action.
A new anti-basigin drug has cured mice of established malaria infection with minimal side effects, offering hope for treating the deadly disease. The drug's development path may be less complex than traditional clinical trials, as it builds on existing knowledge of the protein's role in cancer and graft-versus-host disease.
A recent study published in Journal of Psychopharmacology suggests that what was previously grouped as anxiety disorders may not be homogeneous in terms of the functioning of the serotonergic system. The researchers found that acute tryptophan depletion caused worsening symptoms in patients with anxiety disorders more related to fear, ...
A study published in Annals of Internal Medicine found that 10% of health care providers write an antibiotic prescription for nearly every patient (95 percent or more) who walks in with a cold, bronchitis or other acute respiratory infection. This variation is driven by individual provider habits rather than differences in patient char...
The researchers at Aalto University have demonstrated the first realization of absorbers that do not reflect light over a wide range of frequencies. These absorbers are able to absorb and sense light of desired frequency spectra while being invisible and undetectable at other frequencies.
The Low Risk Ankle Rule reduces unnecessary radiation exposure and healthcare costs for children with ankle injuries. Implementing the rule leads to a 22.9% decrease in x-ray orders and $36.93 less in healthcare costs.
A new Dartmouth study reveals that the brain encodes conceptual information in a way that combines object category-specific information with non-specific visual features. The research provides valuable insights into the mind-brain relationship, offering a deeper understanding of how we perceive and organize visual stimuli.
Researchers found that constructing organic solar cells on a 'non-wetting' plastic surface increased efficiency, allowing for larger grain growth and reduced barriers to electricity production. The technique has potential applications in other technologies like faster transistors and more sensitive photodetectors.
A new NASA-funded investigation found that radiation from solar events is too weak to cause concern at ground level. However, previous research suggested a possible connection between cosmic rays and the rate of birth defects.
The NASA satellite camera has returned its first view of the entire sunlit side of Earth, generating color images using a combination of narrowband filters. The images show effects of sunlight scattered by air molecules, giving them a characteristic bluish tint.