A global study synthesizes data from 1980 to 2014 to better understand how drought affects different legume species and soil conditions. The results show that the magnitude of yield loss varies with legume species and phenological state during drought, while soil texture also plays a role.
The University of Cincinnati has developed a patent-pending breakthrough in 'tunable' window tintings that can dynamically adapt to brightness, color temperatures, and opacity. This technology allows for simultaneous control of brightness and color temperature, providing options for adjusting light entry while maintaining privacy.
Women experiencing more menopausal hot flashes, particularly at night, are more likely to have brain changes that increase their risk of cerebrovascular diseases such as stroke. This study found a correlation between the frequency and severity of hot flashes and white matter hyperintensities on brain scans.
A new study from the University of Copenhagen found that using the intestinal hormone GLP-1 in obesity treatment prevents bone loss and increases blood levels of bone formation markers. This has significant implications for future obesity treatment, particularly for menopausal women at risk of osteoporosis.
The US National Science Foundation is launching the Exploring Innovation Frontiers Initiative (EIFI) to identify emerging models of technological innovation that will propel US competitiveness in the coming decades. The two-year initiative aims to explore innovation strategies, tap into the nation's innovation capacity, and nurture new...
A recent study found that pre-diagnostic short sleep duration and frequent snoring are associated with significantly poorer cancer-specific survival rates among women with breast cancer. The research suggests that improving sleep patterns may motivate and empower cancer patients to enhance their survival rates.
Researchers have identified a gene, PRDM8, linked to early loss of night vision in animal models. Gene therapy for Leber's congenital amaurosis shows promising results, but temporary improvements are seen.
A phase III clinical trial shows necitumumab significantly improves median overall survival in stage IV squamous non-small cell lung cancer patients. The drug's 'fully human' EGFR antibody approach demonstrates potential as a novel immunotherapy strategy.
A UCLA study finds that children with autism spectrum disorder who are overly sensitive to sensory stimuli have brains that react differently, leading to a condition called sensory over-responsivity. The research may lead to interventions that can help improve the lives of these children and their families.
A new imaging technique uses discrete wavelength decomposition to analyze functional connectivity in the brain, identifying changes in neural communication following mTBI. The study found alterations in connectivity in both acute and chronic stages of injury, with recovery of connectivity over time.
MyApnea.Org is a virtual community portal that recruits patients, caregivers, and at-risk individuals to collaborate on sleep apnea research and improve diagnosis and treatment. Members have access to tools and can suggest research ideas to be voted on by the community.
Researchers found that teenagers and young adults with congenital adrenal hyperplasia have significantly more abdominal fat tissue, which increases their risk for harmful conditions such as cardiovascular disease. The study suggests a need for targeted prevention and therapeutics to avoid these adverse effects.
Researchers at Goethe University Frankfurt have developed a new class of organic luminescent materials featuring blue fluorescence, which are suitable for use in organic light-emitting diodes. The boron-containing nanographenes exhibit improved electron transport and stability, making them ideal for portable electronic devices.
A new psoriasis drug, ixekizumab, has shown significant improvement in treating the condition, with 40% of patients clearing all symptoms within 12 weeks. The treatment was found to be more effective than a placebo or widely used drug etanercept.
A faulty calcium channel in heart cells can cause a rare but potentially fatal heart condition called CPVT. When someone with the faulty gene exercises, adrenaline release can flood into the heart cells, causing a fatal arrhythmia.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine discovered a protein-signaling process that accelerates the work of the most frequently mutated gene in adult leukemia. A combination of two drugs targeting this process and the gene itself slowed leukemia cell growth in mice, suggesting potential for improved treatment outcomes.
Researchers unveiled innovative approaches to cancer treatment and malaria vaccination at the 2015 AAPS National Biotechnology Conference. Dual antibody-coated nanomaterials show promise in capturing circulating tumor cells, while penfluridol suppresses pancreatic tumor growth through autophagy-mediated apoptosis.
Scientists at the University of Montreal have discovered a new approach to treating amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) by targeting the immune system. The study, published in Nature Communications, found that an imbalance of the immune system can contribute to ALS and trigger motor neuron destruction.
A study of travertine deposits in the Anio Novus aqueduct revealed an actual estimate of its flow rate, significantly lower than previous estimates. The aqueduct's average water level indicates it was almost always full of water, supplying Rome with a reliable water supply that enabled urbanization during the first century AD.
A Montréal research team found that the dual-hormone artificial pancreas provides the most benefits by reducing time spent in nocturnal hypoglycaemia. The study also showed that no participant using the system experienced a nocturnal hypoglycaemia event requiring treatment.
A mother's environment around the time of conception can affect her child's lifelong risk of disease by altering the function of a specific gene. The study found that maternal nutrition, particularly in rural Gambia, impacts the methylation marks on the VTRNA2-1 gene, which influences immunity and cancer risk.
A RAND Corporation study finds companies are paying more attention to cybersecurity, with CEOs listening to CISOs and new products improving security. However, CISOs worry about hackers' sophistication and the difficulty in quantifying data losses, making it hard to estimate costs.
A study found that stimulating cognitive activities improved cognitive performance but didn't affect brain markers of Alzheimer's. The findings suggest sustaining intellectual engagement helps preserve cognitive function in old age.
A statewide quality improvement program helped reduce serious blood clot complications by more than half in Michigan trauma centers. The program, which provides data-driven feedback and best practices, led to a significant drop in venous thromboembolism events after switching from one anti-clotting agent to another.
Researchers will investigate mTOR's role in brain function and regulation using various techniques. Understanding its function in the striatum could lead to new therapies for neurodegenerative diseases.
Wildfires in Canada are releasing massive amounts of smoke that are drifting south into the US Midwest, affecting air quality. Exposure to this smoke is particularly hazardous for those with respiratory issues, elderly, and children due to its composition of carbon monoxide, particulate matter, and other chemicals.
A massive new study by Houston Methodist and Stanford University scientists found that adults using proton pump inhibitors are at a higher risk of experiencing a heart attack. The study examined 16 million clinical documents representing 2.9 million patients and showed no increased heart attack risk for those taking H2 blockers.
A study by the University of Montreal found that five companies - Reed-Elsevier, Springer, Wiley-Blackwell, Taylor & Francis, and Sage - now publish more than 50% of academic articles. The large commercial publishers have huge sales with profit margins of nearly 40%, but question whether they are still necessary in today's digital era.
Interneurons from the medial ganglionic eminence migrate to the striatum through a mechanism involving Eph/ephrins signalling. The study reveals parallel mechanisms of target chemoattraction and off-target chemorepulsion for interneuron migration.
A recent study published in Journal of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry demonstrates that early intensive behavioral intervention improves outcomes for young children with ASD, including intellectual ability and adaptive behavior. The study found no group differences in core autism symptoms immediately post-treat...
A UCSF-Mayo Clinic team has identified three molecular markers that can classify gliomas more accurately than current methods. The study found that these markers are associated with distinct subgroups of gliomas varying in median survival times and characteristics.
A team of researchers from the University of South Florida doubled survival time in an aggressive metastatic cancer model using a novel combination of ketogenic diet and supplements with hyperbaric oxygen therapy. The study shows beneficial effects of ketone supplements in conjunction with non-toxic therapeutic regimens.
Researchers from four UK centers shared latest developments in low and high-grade brain tumour research, including updates on the iKnife smart scalpel. The workshop aimed to foster partnerships between key research hubs to speed up translation of research into clinical trials.
A recent study conducted by the RAND Corporation found a significant association between sleep problems, energy product use, and increased alcohol use in teens. The research included over 2,500 racially/ethnically diverse teens and highlighted racial differences in observed associations.
Research suggests that gay and bisexual men in homophobic countries are less likely to know about HIV, use condoms, but face a higher potential risk of infection as technology increases access to sexual contact
Research suggests that aerobic exercise can curb asthma symptoms and improve quality of life by reducing bronchial hyperresponsiveness and inflammatory response. The study found significant improvements in symptom-free days, worsening symptom bouts, and quality of life scores among participants with moderate to severe asthma.
Google searches for information on melanoma and skin cancer rose over summer months from 2010 to 2014. The correlation between these searches and actual melanoma incidence and mortality rates was limited, suggesting that increased search volumes do not necessarily translate to improved detection rates.
Researchers discovered how bacteria rapidly replace outer membrane proteins in response to changing growth conditions. This mechanism involves the formation of 'OMP islands' that regulate protein insertion, allowing bacteria to change their outer membrane coat in just two generations.
A new study found that cutting greenhouse gas emissions may increase hunger risks due to indirect effects on food production and biofuel consumption. The researchers conclude that governments must address climate change while providing measures to alleviate hunger.
The North American Menopause Society (NAMS) revised its recommendations to support the judicious use of systemic hormone therapy in women over 65. The organization acknowledges that hot flashes can persist into the mid-60s, posing a challenge for treatment guidelines and clinical practice.
A new study suggests that climate change will lead to declines in plant growing days by 2100 due to warming, drought, and limited solar radiation. Tropical regions are expected to face significant reductions in suitable climate ranges, potentially affecting food security and human societies.
Researchers found that social media can be a powerful tool for emergency preparedness and response, with Twitter playing a key role in spreading news. Social media use during disasters can help connect people with others who have experienced similar situations, providing emotional support and a sense of community.
A recent UAlberta study reveals nearly half of severely obese patients require ICU admission and one in five do not survive after emergency surgery. The researchers attribute these findings to underlying health conditions, malnutrition, and impaired healing due to obesity.
Researchers have discovered that the mineral particles in dentin are precompressed, which helps prevent cracks from developing and increases resistance to damage. This natural mechanism may inspire the development of tougher ceramic structures for tooth repair or replacement.
A new study suggests that one night of partial sleep deprivation promotes biological aging in older adults by activating gene expression patterns consistent with increasing damage accumulation. The findings support the hypothesis that sleep deprivation may be associated with elevated disease risk by promoting molecular processes involv...
Remnant moisture from hurricane Blanca will generate scattered thunderstorms over New Mexico, with enhanced chances for rain in the northwest plateau and northern mountains. Isolated showers and thunderstorms are expected in Albuquerque, with a high near 88.
A study presented at EULAR 2015 found that ultrasound diagnosis of tenosynovitis was superior to clinical symptoms in predicting early RA. This procedure has the potential to improve clinical outcomes by identifying the need for treatment before symptom onset.
A recent study in Japan reveals that overcrowded, older tree plantations are a significant source of non-point nitrogen pollution. The findings highlight the need for better forest management practices to restore their ability to clean water rather than pollute it.
A study found that chimpanzees produce the same facial expressions when laugh sounds are present or absent, suggesting flexibility in their expression. The study also showed that facial expressions and vocalizations are used differently during social play.
A study published in Neurology found that people with mild cognitive impairment or dementia due to Alzheimer's disease have abnormal levels of lysosomal proteins in their blood. These proteins, found in tiny nerve cell-derived blood particles called exosomes, may serve as biomarkers for early treatment and prevention.
Dr. Ewine van Dishoeck is awarded the Albert Einstein World Award of Science for her groundbreaking research on interstellar molecules, while Dr. Milton Masciadri receives the Leonardo da Vinci World Award of Arts for his exceptional contributions to music and education.
Researchers warn that genetically modified salmonids may outcompete wild-type fish due to enhanced feeding motivation. However, increased aggression could expose them to greater predation risk, reducing their overall fitness.
Community health workers are expected to play a vital role in healthcare delivery due to the increasing need for CHWs nationwide. A new perspective piece offers guidance on how to maximize effectiveness, including integrating CHWs with formal healthcare providers and addressing upstream issues.
Research suggests pedophiles are more likely to have minor physical anomalies in the face and head, developing during the prenatal period. The study found a higher prevalence of these deviations among left-handed men, who may be more susceptible to disruptive events during fetal development.
A new nationally representative survey found that nearly three-quarters of Americans believe they waste less food than the national average, despite 31-40% of the American food supply being wasted. The top foods wasted are fruits and vegetables, with food waste costing Americans $161.6 billion annually.
The study confirms massive migrations led to huge changes in the European gene-pool, conferring admixture on modern populations. Genetic analysis reveals a new perception of family, property, and personhood emerged during this period, influencing language families and later developments in the Bronze Age.
The 2015 BIO International Convention in Philadelphia featured the Innovation Zone, a 5,000-square-foot exhibit space dedicated to companies with cutting-edge biomedical technologies supported by NSF's Directorate for Engineering. The zone showcased over 75 companies, including those funded by the NSF Small Business Innovation Research...
A new University of Windsor-led study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that a sexual assault resistance education program significantly reduced the likelihood of completed rape among first-year university women. The EAAA program, which consists of four three-hour sessions, helped women assess risk, overcome emotio...
Research published in BMJ Open found that weekend screen time is associated with lower bone mineral density in teen boys, while teenage girls with different body fat distribution may be protected from the negative effects of screen time on their bones. The study suggests that persisting associations between sedentary activities and bon...
A new study proposes a two-by-two blind trial design that considers interactions between behavior and treatment. The researchers found that participants who felt confident about receiving treatment changed their behaviors in ways that improved health outcomes and made the drug more effective.
Researchers have designed nanoparticles that specifically target cancer stem cells, which are tough to kill with conventional drugs. The treatment successfully killed CSCs and destroyed tumors in mice tests, with no obvious side effects. This therapy may help overcome the defenses of these hardy cells.
Research from Inserm found a significant association between increased urinary levels of pyrethroid metabolites and decreased verbal comprehension and working memory in six-year-old children. The study suggests potential neurotoxic effects of pyrethroids on child development.
A new study challenges the notion that boreal peatlands are a potential source of carbon emissions from global warming. The researchers found that oxygen exposure time, rather than temperature increases, plays a more significant role in determining peat decomposition.
Researchers successfully cooled sodium potassium molecules to a temperature just above absolute zero, creating exotic states of matter with strong dipole moments. The ultracold molecules exhibited long lifetimes and resisted reactive collisions, paving the way for new discoveries in quantum mechanics.
A study found that carotenoid levels in breast milk differ significantly by country, with Chinese women's milk having the highest levels of lutein and fatty acids. The US lagged behind China and Mexico due to lower fruit and vegetable consumption.
Researchers at Ruhr-University Bochum discovered that coral colonies have higher genetic diversity than assumed, with 24-47% of polyps being genetically different. This increased diversity may help corals adapt to environmental changes, but is it sufficient to compensate for the devastating effects of climate change?
Scientists at Argonne National Laboratory have found a way to create a material combination that demonstrates superlubricity, a highly-desirable property in which friction drops to near zero. The team used graphene and diamond nanoparticles to create a nanoscale phenomenon, but found that humidity inhibited the effect.
Researchers from Brazil and Canada have found a species of fungus gnats feeding on mushrooms in South America. The study provides valuable insights into the life stages of these tiny insects and their interactions with fungi.
Cornell University engineers have developed a synthetic immune organ that produces antibodies and can be controlled in the lab. The organoid mimics the anatomical microenvironment of lymphoid tissue, converting B cells into germinal centers and activating them at rapid rates.
A recent study published in Conservation Biology makes a strong case for using detailed wildlife density data to inform conservation planning. The research found that prioritizing areas with higher species richness led to the protection of more individuals of each species.
A study from the University of Central Florida found that breast milk sharing is a thriving practice, with many women exchanging milk through online communities. The majority of participants were college-educated and had household incomes above $70,000, using cross-nursing as an alternative to container-based exchanges.
A study published in PLOS ONE found that participants estimated the length of a round-trip walk as shorter than the outward trip, even when the times were equal. This phenomenon, known as the return trip effect, may be related to our perception of time and awareness of the destination.
Uruguayan researchers have observed the three-dimensional structure of the capsid of Bovine Leukemia Virus (BLV) with high resolution, revealing its flexibility and key regions. This breakthrough can lead to new antiviral medicines for diseases caused by retroviruses.
Research suggests that light-intensity exercise can lead to improved health outcomes, including lower BMI and reduced chronic disease risk, for individuals over age 65. Engaging in 5 hours of light physical activity per week appears to provide similar benefits as moderate exercise.
A new study suggests that college freshmen with sleep disorder risk are more likely to leave the institution over a three-year period. These students also tend to have lower grade point averages, highlighting the importance of addressing sleep disorders for academic success.
Researchers have developed a method to increase nitric oxide production in nasal passages, which is linked to chronic sinusitis. The approach involves boosting NO levels using low-molecular-weight peptides that were created from an already-approved drug compound.
Researchers apply insect vision principles to develop an 'active vision' system, which locks onto the background and lets the target move against it. This bio-inspired algorithm performs robustly, running up to 20 times faster than state-of-the-art engineering algorithms.
A study found that RA patients with moderate disease activity are at risk of needing joint surgery, challenging existing treatment guidelines. The findings suggest updating disease activity cut-off points to allow moderate-disease-activity patients to receive biologics.
Researchers at UC Davis discover that chromosome shattering, a process previously only seen in animal cells, occurs in plant embryos when combining centromeres with weakened structures. This finding opens up new possibilities for plant breeding and could aid cancer researchers using the model plant Arabidopsis.
A new classification system has been developed to improve the diagnosis and treatment of low- and intermediate-grade gliomas (LGGs), reducing the reliance on subjective tumor appearance. The system uses molecular and genetic analysis to identify three distinct groups of LGGs with varying prognoses, offering a more objective approach.
A large data-mining study by Stanford University School of Medicine has linked proton-pump inhibitors (PPIs) to an elevated risk of heart attack. The study found a 20% increase in the rate of subsequent heart-attack risk among all adult PPI users, even when excluding those also taking clopidogrel.
NASA satellites tracked Tropical Cyclone Ashobaa's powerful storms, with rainfall rates exceeding 70.5 mm per hour and storm heights reaching up to 21 km. The cyclone is strengthening despite high wind shear, but is expected to weaken after landfall on June 12.
A new study published in the British Medical Journal examines the evidence on whether newborns delivered by C-section are more likely to develop obesity, asthma, and diabetes later in life. The authors find that cesarean delivery may lead to worse long-term child health, warranting concerns for clinical guidelines.
A new study reveals that fragile X proteins FMRP and FXR2P play a vital role in the maturation of newly formed adult neurons. Mice lacking FXR2P had impaired learning and memory tasks, suggesting potential therapeutic targets for fragile X syndrome and autism. The study's findings also highlight the importance of fostering new nerve ce...
Researchers found that short boys are 2-3 times more likely than short girls to receive recombinant human growth hormone treatment for idiopathic short stature (ISS). This gender bias may lead to overzealous treatment in healthy boys and delayed diagnoses of underlying diseases in short girls.
A new study confirms that 53% of menopausal women use at least one type of CAM for symptom management, raising safety concerns due to lack of medical consultation. Healthcare providers need to be aware of CAM therapies and guide patients to coordinate safe care.
A groundbreaking study reclassifies brain tumors using molecular diagnostics, surpassing traditional microscopic classification. The findings will enable more consistent diagnosis and treatment of diffuse gliomas, guiding patient management and informing chemotherapy strategies.
Researchers developed a new model to predict harmful bacteria levels on beaches, using information on waves, tides, and rainfall. The model provides beach managers with an easily accessible computer tool to identify when closures are required to protect human health.
The study found that between 30-47% of Balearic shearwater colonies are exposed to high levels of light pollution, posing a significant threat to the species. The researchers recommend establishing rescue campaigns specifically for emancipation periods to reduce mortality rates among these endangered seabirds.
Researchers at Rice University have discovered a new way to measure electrical transport properties of nanomaterials and structures at high frequencies. The technique produces unique optical signatures that can be used to identify the conductance of nanowires and other electronic components.
Researchers found that growing bacteria in mammalian tissue culture media instead of standard bacteriologic media makes them more sensitive to azithromycin. The drug is also effective when paired with colistin or antimicrobial peptides produced by the human body during infection, reducing bacterial counts by up to 99% in mouse models.
A new study by Michigan State University economists suggests that public deliberation is crucial for stable economic growth. By considering diverse citizen opinions, policymakers can create policies that regulate the economy and allocate resources effectively.
A Phase II clinical trial presented promising results for baricitinib in people with diabetic kidney disease, reducing a key sign of kidney damage and inflammation. The trial's success demonstrates the potential of precision medicine in treating this common yet devastating condition affecting millions of Americans.
A new model predicts coronal mass ejections with 24-hour advance warning, while satellite altimetry helps optimize reservoir releases in real-time. This enables more efficient water management on data-limited rivers around the world.
Research suggests pyrazines, found in low tar cigarettes, can act independently of nicotine to prompt dopamine release and enhance tobacco dependence. The study calls for swift regulation of pyrazine additives to mitigate their role in nicotine addiction.
Researchers at Concordia University found that 18-month-old toddlers can distinguish between appropriate and inappropriate emotional responses, demonstrating an understanding of stoicism and the importance of emotional expressions in building trust. Toddlers showed greater empathy towards individuals who expressed sadness after a negat...
Energy efficiency upgrades significantly benefit low-income single-family homeowners, providing improved thermal comfort, enhanced health and safety, and reduced energy costs. Landlords also experience benefits, including lower heating fuel prices and an improved sense of safety.
A new study has found that coral reefs in Palau are showing few of the predicted responses to low pH caused by ocean acidification. Instead, these reefs exhibit increased bio-erosion, but also host more species and have greater coral cover than in other naturally low pH reef systems.
NGC 6503, a 30,000-light-year-long galaxy, is located at the edge of the 150-million-light-year-wide Local Void. The Hubble Space Telescope image showcases its vibrant colors and swirling spiral arms.
A new way of classifying brain cancers has been found, with striking molecular differences between various forms of gliomas. This discovery could lead to more precise diagnosis and patient management.
Researchers discover that different shapes of alpha-synuclein aggregates cause distinct neurodegenerative diseases, including Parkinson's disease and Multiple System Atrophy. The study suggests new possibilities for treating brain diseases with a drug that counteracts aggregate development.
A dramatic ice sheet collapse at the end of the last ice age led to widespread climate changes and a sea level peak well above its present height. The research, published in Nature, reveals that this event was caused by the suppression of ocean circulation in the North Atlantic Ocean.
The tREACH trial found that combination DMARDs (methotrexate, sulfasalazine, and hydroxychloroquine) improve measures of disease activity and functional ability in patients with early rheumatoid arthritis. This suggests an earlier decrease in disease severity and improvements in functional ability compared to monotherapy.
A systematic review found that combining lifestyle changes with metformin improves weight loss, lower BMI, and improved menstruation in PCOS women. Lifestyle modification is the first step in managing PCOS, while metformin provides additional benefits for improving BMI and menstrual cycles.
Scientists discovered that acquiring a group of bacterial symbionts enabled firebugs to feed on plant seeds, previously inaccessible to them. This adaptation led to the diversification of firebug species within a new ecological niche.
As warmer ocean temperatures speed up metabolic needs for oxygen, animals will struggle to find sufficient oxygen in lower-oxygen waters. This shift will result in marine habitats being displaced towards shallower, more oxygen-rich areas, with some species becoming oxygen-starved.
Researchers at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory simulated a nuclear explosion using new experiments and computer modeling to analyze plutonium behavior. The results will help scientists perform forensic analyses in the case of an actual detonation, providing deeper insights into the element's properties.
Researchers at Mayo Clinic have developed a new molecular classification system for gliomas, which could lead to more accurate diagnoses and personalized treatments. The system categorizes tumors based on three genetic alterations, allowing clinicians to predict patient outcomes and tailor treatment plans accordingly.
A new study found that many older adults are participating in online communities to discuss and learn about sex, swapping advice on keeping their sexuality active into old age. These online forums provide a safe space for seniors to share their thoughts and experiences without fear of judgment.
A Binghamton University engineer has developed an origami battery made from paper that generates power from microbial respiration. The battery is cheap and biodegradable, and can be used to run a biosensor in remote areas with limited resources.
A UBC study published in International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health found that risky outdoor play promotes physical and social health in children. Play environments with natural elements like trees and plants encourage creativity, resilience, and social interactions.
A new study finds that climate change will lead to overall declines in plant growing days by 2100 due to warming, drought, and limited solar radiation. The study reveals that tropical regions will face significant reductions in suitable climates for plant growth, with some areas facing up to a 200-day reduction per year.