A study by University of Iowa scientists found that adding high salt to a high-fat diet prevents weight gain in mice, suggesting non-caloric nutrients can significantly impact energy balance and weight gain. The researchers discovered that digestive efficiency, not caloric content, is the key factor in suppressing weight gain.
Researchers demonstrate a novel approach for generating new phases using high-pressure crystallographic studies of molecular materials. The study reveals the structural changes in α-Co(dca)2 under pressure, shedding light on its correlation with magnetic properties.
Researchers have identified a genetic switch that determines whether germ cells become sperm or eggs in the medaka fish. In females lacking this gene, sperm are produced in the ovaries and function normally, challenging the long-held assumption of sex determination being linked to body appearance.
A new iPad app, 'This Feeling!', has been shown to be preferred by 95% of children with Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA) over conventional tools. The app uses interactive technology to help children describe their pain experiences, improving communication and support for long-term management.
Researchers discovered a molecular mechanism that contributes to age-related macular degeneration due to excessive iron accumulation in retinal cells. Excessive iron impairs the processing of inflammatory RNAs, leading to inflammasome-mediated cell death.
Researchers have discovered that spider and centipede venom originated from an insulin-like hormone, with similar molecular shapes between the toxins and the hormone. This finding has potential applications in developing new pharmaceuticals and bioinsecticides, as well as solving agricultural and medical problems.
Research suggests that clear and strong environmental stimulation can lower apathy levels in nursing home residents with dementia. Apathy is a common neurobehavioral symptom in dementia, affecting up to 90% of older adults, and can lead to faster cognitive decline and caregiver burnout.
Ovarian cancer suppresses immune cells' ability to respond to tumor cells by activating a gene called XBP1. A novel therapy approach aims to restore dendritic cell function and trigger robust immune responses against ovarian tumors.
A joint investigation by UT Southwestern Medical Center and collaborators has identified an enzyme called 15-PGDH that regulates tissue regeneration in multiple organs. By blocking this enzyme with a newly discovered molecule, researchers were able to rescue damaged bone marrow, liver tissue, and colon tissue.
A new screen has identified key environmental signals that modulate bacterial behavior in Salmonella typhimurium, a food-poisoning bacterium. These signals trigger survival tactics and alter biofilm formation.
Researchers have discovered that infants with superior perception skills are more likely to develop autism symptoms later in life. The study found that enhanced visual searching ability at 9 months old predicted more emergent autism symptoms at 15 months and 2 years of age.
Researchers found that lower oxygen levels led to increased precipitation and warmer temperatures due to the resulting drop in atmospheric density. The study's findings suggest that changes in oxygen concentrations may help explain features of past climates not accounted for by variations in carbon dioxide levels.
Research reveals that NSAIDs can inhibit ovulation in women with mild musculoskeletal pain, affecting their ability to conceive. The study found that after just 10 days of treatment, progesterone levels decreased significantly across all treatment groups.
A recent study published in the Journal of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry reveals longitudinal brain changes in individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) during late adolescence and young adulthood. The research found that these individuals experienced an exaggeration of normal cortical thinning, which wa...
Researchers found that naturally fermented milk-based products can lower cholesterol and triglyceride levels in mice, offering potential antioxidant and cardioprotective benefits. The study suggests that these compounds could be used as potential ingredients for improving human cardiovascular health.
A study found that dendritic cells in elite HIV controllers can detect early signs of HIV infection and trigger a powerful immune response. This ability helps to control the virus, suggesting new avenues for preventative or therapeutic interventions.
Researchers found a unique bacterial signature in the colon of people with systemic sclerosis, which may contribute to clinical symptoms and be used for diagnosis. The study suggests that an imbalance in gut bacteria could be a feature of SSc.
Researchers at Karolinska Institutet found that cardiopulmonary resuscitation performed before ambulance arrival increases survival rate by over two-fold. A new SMS Lifesavers system has also caused a 30% increase in CPR, highlighting the effectiveness of mobile technology in emergency response.
Researchers found that warmer summer temperatures in Interior Alaska led to a decline in white spruce tree growth, while Western Alaska saw increased growth rates. The study, which analyzed over 540 tree cores, suggests the boreal forest is shifting towards higher elevations and the western part of the state.
A recent study reveals that nearly 1 in 3 counties in the US have limited access to specialty care for ovarian and cervical cancers, affecting 14.8 million women. The study also found that 15% of women may face barriers to care due to their referral network.
A study published in PLOS Computational Biology reveals that woodlice can calm their excited neighbors through a process of behavioral contagion, leading to greater group cohesion. This phenomenon is observed when calm individuals reduce the excitation of their neighbors, causing them to become calm as well.
A meta-analysis of 14 medium- to high-quality studies found that gentamicin-collagen sponges significantly reduced the incidence of sternal wound infections by 38% compared to controls. The use of sponges also reduced the risk of life-threatening inflammation of mid-chest tissues (mediastinitis).
An international research team found that human-mediated dispersal of alien gastropods has led to a global reorganization of biogeographic patterns, with communities becoming increasingly similar across continents. Climate now plays a major role in shaping species distribution, rather than geographical distance.
A recent study reveals that a regulatory gene called NAC016 plays a crucial role in turning off drought-response pathways in plants. This discovery offers new insights into how to develop drought-tolerant crop plants through conventional breeding or biotechnological approaches.
Researchers at Toyohashi University of Technology developed new agents to inhibit the production of amyloid-beta peptides, a main cause of Alzheimer's disease. The novel curcumin derivatives were proposed through molecular simulations and shown to bind strongly to amyloid precursor protein.
Researchers at UMN identified two key mutations in MERS virus enabling its transmission from bats to humans. These mutations allowed the virus to infect human cells, highlighting a crucial evolutionary strategy used by the virus.
Researchers at Netherlands Institute for Neuroscience found increased synchrony between sensory cortices and subcortical regions in individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder, contributing to hypersensitivity. This decoupling is thought to reflect the inability to block out irrelevant sensory information.
Researchers found that male and female banded mongooses discriminate between relatives and non-relatives to avoid inbreeding, with males directing mating effort towards less closely related females. The study suggests a previously unknown breeding system where both sexes avoid inbreeding when mating within their extended family group.
Tropical Cyclone Ashobaa is expected to make landfall in eastern Oman, bringing tropical-storm-force winds and heavy rainfall. The storm's maximum sustained winds were near 40 knots (46 mph) on June 11.
Researchers studied hawkmoth's ability to hover and track flowers in mid-air while adjusting to changing light conditions. The moths can slow their brains to improve vision under low-light conditions, but only if the flower is moving rapidly.
Li-Jun Ma's research focuses on deciphering the mechanisms underlying fungal pathogenesis and developing novel antifungal therapies. Her work aims to address the growing threat of opportunistic fungal infections, which claim over 1.5 million lives each year.
A multidisciplinary team of NYU researchers suggests that temperature changes in the tissues of the body be used as a safety metric for mobile devices operating at mmWave frequencies, rather than power density. They propose using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to monitor thermal changes and ensure device safety.
Researchers found that EBV-infected B cells evade immune system using the viral protein LMP2A. The protein interferes with recognition by CD8+ T cells, allowing infected cells to escape detection and elimination.
A new study published in the American Journal of Public Health found that messages with images depicting the harsh realities of melanoma are more powerful than text-only warnings in persuading young women to reconsider indoor tanning. Loss-framed messages emphasizing the risks of indoor tanning were more effective in decreasing intenti...
Scientists at TUM have characterized a small heat shock protein essential for embryonic development in nematodes, which may have implications for human health. The Sip1 protein regulates itself via pH value and prevents clotting of important proteins.
New experiments on Japanese rice fish reveal that the fox13 gene determines whether a germ cell becomes an egg or sperm cell. Disrupting fox13 in adult fish with two X chromosomes leads to functional sperm formation in females.
A recent study published in Psychopharmacology found that lisdexamfetamine improved executive functions and objective measures of cognitive decline in post-menopausal women. The research suggests that the drug may help alleviate difficulties with memory, time management, and other cognitive tasks.
A study by researchers at the University of California - Davis Health found that children with ADHD who moved more intensely exhibited better cognitive performance. The study suggests that allowing movement during cognitive tasks may be beneficial for students with ADHD, rather than trying to keep them still.
Researchers Alyson M. Thibodeau and colleagues used lead and strontium isotopic ratios to distinguish geological sources of turquoise, shedding light on pre-Hispanic mining practices in the region. The study provides a new approach to investigate turquoise provenance, enabling scientists to better understand ancient mining activities.
Researchers have identified novel populations of nerve cells that regulate appetite, thermogenesis, and physical activity. Deleting the BDNF gene impairs thermogenesis and causes hyperphagia and severe obesity. The study reveals two distinct types of BDNF neurons with different biological roles.
Scientists have identified a type of sugar produced by Gram-negative bacteria called heptose as the trigger for an immune response in patients with gonorrhea. This discovery could lead to the development of new therapies that use the immune system to fight infections instead of antibiotics.
Researchers at MIT report that a widely held assumption about computational complexity is correct, making it unlikely that a more efficient algorithm exists. The current edit distance algorithm, in use for over 40 years, has been deemed the best possible solution for comparing genomes or strings of symbols.
The Pew Charitable Trusts has named 22 top scientists as scholars in the biomedical sciences, who will investigate topics ranging from microbiome to mosquito preference. The program provides four years of flexible funding and aims to advance bioscience and create a healthier world.
Researchers at Argonne National Laboratory develop a new way of manipulating high-intensity X-rays using a small microelectromechanical system (MEMS) mirror. The device acts as an ultrafast mirror reflecting X-rays at precise times and specific angles, allowing for the selection of extremely brief but precise X-ray bursts.
The Journal of Biomedical Optics publishes a special section on advances in biomedical optics, celebrating the United Nations-declared International Year of Light. Papers report new methods for noninvasive disease screening, diagnosis, and treatment monitoring using light-based technologies.
A recent Harvard study found that over half of US children and adolescents are not getting enough hydration, leading to potential health problems. Racial and ethnic disparities were also observed, with black children and boys at higher risk of inadequate hydration.
Researchers have confirmed that eosinophils release special agents attracting immune system's professional killers into cancer tissue, leading to improved cancer rejection and increased survival rates in mice. Eosinophils also normalize blood vessels in the tumor, contributing to tumor rejection.
Researchers have developed a new drug that stimulates tissue stem cells to repair damaged tissues more quickly, showing promise in treating diseases such as ulcerative colitis and bone marrow transplants. The drug, known as SW033291, increases prostaglandin E2 levels and promotes tissue healing without adverse side effects.
Researchers found that variations in atmospheric oxygen levels over the past 500 million years may have contributed to changes in global temperatures. The study suggests that lower oxygen concentrations led to higher temperatures and increased precipitation during the Cenomanian time period, a warmest period in the past 100 million years.
A new study suggests that college students who binge drink experience more delayed sleep timing and variable sleep schedules. The research found that heavier drinkers had later bedtimes and rise times, with greater day-to-day variability in sleep length.
A new study by Case Western Reserve University School of Dental Medicine researchers found that dental implants result in higher overall satisfaction among postmenopausal women with osteoporosis. Women with dental implants reported the highest satisfaction in emotional and sexual areas, while those without restorations scored lower.
The discovery of a stratosphere on WASP-33b offers insights into the planet's composition and formation. The presence of titanium oxide in the atmosphere indicates temperature inversion, similar to Earth's ozone layer.
A new study suggests that bright light exposure at the end of a night shift may enhance driving performance, particularly in low light environments. Bright light significantly suppressed melatonin levels, but did not immediately improve subjective alertness or psychomotor vigilance performance.
The defense cascade is a continuum of innate defensive behaviors in response to threats. Clinicians can use targeted interventions to decrease arousal, manage traumatic memories, and alleviate negative emotional reactions.
Researchers found that elite HIV controllers' dendritic cells are better able to detect and respond to HIV, producing higher levels of immune-boosting proteins. This unique ability allows them to generate powerful T-cell responses against the virus, which may help others control or even cure HIV without treatment.
Researchers discovered that high doses of antioxidants can disrupt intracellular signaling in neural stem cells, leading to a decrease in their stemness properties. However, treatment with antioxidants improved stem cell function, but only up to a point.
A new study published in Cell found that human heart muscle cells are primarily formed during childhood, with only 40% replaced throughout a person's life. This discovery suggests it may be possible to stimulate the rebuilding of lost heart tissue through therapeutic strategies.
A study by the University of Arizona's BIO5 Institute has identified potential protective compounds in dust samples from Amish farming communities. The findings suggest that these natural environmental products could be transformed into medicines to promote lung health and prevent asthma. The research aims to understand the biological ...
Researchers have identified a serotonin receptor, HTR7, as a key mediator of eczema and other forms of itch. The study suggests that targeting this receptor may lead to the development of powerful new therapies for chronic itch conditions.
Researchers at UTA are using geofoam blocks to bolster the earth beneath roads and bridges, slowing down settling of soft and compressible soils. This innovative solution aims to improve infrastructure safety and stability, particularly in areas with heavy truck traffic loads.
A study by University of Michigan researcher Monica Dus found a hormone that triggers digestive response to real sugar but not artificial sweeteners in fruit flies, suggesting humans may have similar mechanism. This discovery helps explain why diet foods fail to satiate hunger and lead to weight gain.
Researchers from Boston Children's Hospital and Merck have built a digital phenotype of insomnia and other sleep disorders based on Twitter data. The study found that Twitter users with sleep problems are less active on social media but tweet more during traditional sleeping hours, suggesting an increased risk for psychosocial issues.
Researchers found that mutations in ARID1a gene sensitize certain tumors to PARP inhibitor drugs, allowing for more effective treatment options. The study highlights the importance of using genomic information to guide cancer therapy and identify precise treatments for individual patients.
Researchers at Washington University School of Medicine identified a key player in maintaining brain tumor stem cells' ability to survive and replenish themselves. Disrupting this process using protein CDC20 has been shown to reduce tumor growth by up to 95 percent in mice, offering new hope for treating glioblastoma.
A new study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that a DASH-style diet with lean, unprocessed pork as the primary protein source reduced blood pressure and had similar effects when chicken or fish was used instead. The study included 19 participants with elevated high blood pressure and demonstrated the versat...
NASA's RapidScat and Terra satellites observed Tropical Depression 3-E forming in the Eastern Pacific, with sustained winds near 15 meters per second (33.5 mph) and a powerful thunderstorm band spiraling into its center.
A new study published in PNAS found that groups outperform individuals in detecting lies, with a 61.7% group accuracy rate compared to 53.5% individual accuracy. The researchers discovered that the group advantage comes from the process of group discussion rather than statistical aggregation of individual opinions.
Children with lower vitamin D levels had higher blood markers related to kidney dysfunction and greater kidney function loss over time. Maintaining normal vitamin D levels helps preserve kidney function in children with CKD.
A new study integrates neuroscience and psychology to reveal how sleep suppresses the activity of certain nerve cells that promote forgetting, ensuring at least some memories last. Sleep facilitates memory retention by blocking dopamine neuron-mediated forgetting, leading to more stable memories.
A new study found that Connecticut's permit-to-purchase handgun law, which requires background checks and safety training, led to a 40% drop in firearm-related homicide rates. The law also raised the purchasing age to 21 and restricted sales to licensed dealers.
Harvard researchers argue that mobile devices could revolutionize healthcare by linking app data to electronic health records. This integration could reduce costs and advance precision medicine, but current electronic health record systems lack standardized interfaces for accessing genomic data.
Researchers at the University of Illinois investigated threonine biomass as a lower-cost alternative to fish meal for pig diets. Threonine biomass was found to contain more crude protein and have higher protein digestibility compared to fish meal, making it a promising source of protein for pigs.
A large population study found an increased risk of developing Psoriatic Arthritis among psoriasis patients exposed to physical trauma, particularly bone and joint traumas. The study suggests further investigation into the complex factors leading to arthritis in psoriasis patients may lead to modified risk.
Researchers identified 136 genes whose expression is correlated across regions within each network, suggesting a molecular basis for synchronized physiological interactions. These genes encode proteins essential for nerve cell activity and maintenance of voltage differences.
A study by the American Heart Association found that culturally tailored educational materials can decrease racial disparities in stroke preparedness outcomes. Interactive interventions and enhanced educational materials led to a significant increase in patients arriving at emergency departments within three hours of symptom onset.
A new study reveals that hawkmoths' vision is finely attuned to the swaying of flowers in the breeze, enabling them to track wind-tossed flowers under low-light conditions. The researchers found that the moth's tracking responses were slower in dark conditions, but only when the artificial flower moved at high frequencies.
The study found that children's exposure to second-hand smoke has declined by approximately 80% since 1998. Over two-thirds of all children now have undetectable levels of cotinine in their saliva, a nicotine derivative.
A study published in Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers & Prevention found that lung cancer patients with comorbidities such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, diabetes, or congestive heart failure had a higher risk of death. These patients also experienced poorer survival rates at each stage of the disease.
A recent study found that less competitive strains of Myxococcus xanthus can retain their genetic diversity by occupying niches inaccessible to dominant strains. This phenomenon, known as positive frequency-dependent selection, allows weaker gene variants to survive and thrive when numerically superior.
Forefront: Innovations in Suicide Prevention is receiving a $100,000 grant from Washington Women's Foundation to expand its outreach to six underserved rural communities. The organization plans to train over 1,260 individuals and provide technical assistance through the two-year life of the grant.
A recent study found that the new NICE thresholds for diagnosing gestational diabetes in pregnancy are less effective than international criteria, potentially missing thousands of women at high risk. The research suggests that using the WHO guidelines could identify an additional 3,000 to 4,000 women each year in the UK.
Three scientists have been recognized for their groundbreaking discoveries in superconducting materials, including Xianhui Chen, Zachary Fisk, and Zhongxian Zhao. The prize is awarded annually by the Texas Center for Superconductivity to innovators in the field of superconducting materials.
A lab study found that daily aspirin was effective at blocking breast tumor growth. Aspirin appears to affect cancer stem cells, preventing them from reproducing. Experts recommend consulting a doctor before starting a daily aspirin regimen due to potential risks and side effects.
The research develops a system to produce soft materials with dynamically controllable and reversible surface properties. By manipulating the spacing and shapes of embedded particles, the material's surface can change from smooth to ridged or bumpy, creating complex patterns that could guide fluids.
Researchers at Queen's University Belfast have developed a new treatment that prevents Klebsiella pneumonia from blocking the body's natural defences. The therapy uses an inhibitor to stop the superbug from taking over a protein in white blood cells, making it capable of killing the infection.
A large outcomes study found that community-acquired pneumonia increases long-term morbidity and mortality rates compared to the general population. CAP patients have high rates of all-cause hospitalization, emergency department visits, and pneumonia-related hospital visits.
Researchers found that low birth weight, having older siblings, and hospitalizations due to infections between ages 5-16 can predict ankylosing spondylitis. These environmental factors have been linked to other diseases, such as autoimmune conditions like diabetes and rheumatoid arthritis.
The university will create a new generation of tools to develop novel architectures combining hard and soft materials for electronics and biomedicine. The 4-D printer will use nanoscale technology to construct devices for research in chemistry, materials sciences, and U.S. defense-related areas.
A study analyzing 4,200 Ph.D. candidates found that 'joiners' - employees who support startup founders - share similar risk-tolerance and autonomy desires as founders, but prioritize functional roles over management. The research highlights the importance of preparing STEM doctorates for entrepreneurial employee career paths.
The Pew Charitable Trusts has named 10 postdoctoral scientists from Latin America to pursue research in the US with distinguished mentors. The fellows will focus on improving human health through bold approaches to biomedical research.
A study by Penn State researchers found that many of America's most admired companies have room for social media improvement, with some lacking basic accounts and others struggling to create engaging content. Companies in the consumer packaged goods industry excelled in this area, while those in healthcare struggled.
Researchers at Lehigh University present breakthroughs in capturing tumor cells, creating bioengineered enzymes to fight bacterial biofilms, and developing a stable chemical reagent. These innovations have the potential to positively impact industries such as food safety and medical devices.
Research found that consuming at least 10g of nuts or peanuts daily lowers mortality rates for various causes, including respiratory disease and neurodegenerative disorders. The effects are seen in both men and women, with equal reductions.
A new mathematical model investigates the impact of individual movement on infectious disease spread, finding that spatial dispersal can create up to nine stable equilibria. The study highlights the importance of considering both backward bifurcation and spatial mobility in epidemiology.
Researchers studying blue whales in Chile have discovered that a female named 'Isabela' has traveled at least 5,000 kilometers from the Gulf of Corcovado to the Galapagos Islands, indicating a possible breeding ground. This journey represents the largest north-south migratory movement ever recorded for a Southern Hemisphere blue whale.
A Johns Hopkins study analyzed Medicare claims to confirm a long-suspected link between lower rates of coordinated health care services and higher rates of unnecessary medical tests and procedures. Patients with more continuity in their medical care had a lower chance of having an overused procedure.
The Pew Charitable Trusts and Alexander and Margaret Stewart Trust announced five early-career cancer researchers as Pew-Stewart Scholars. They will receive flexible funding to pursue innovative work aimed at advancing progress toward a cure for cancer.
Researchers discovered that injecting water into an inactive fault can cause aseismic slip, which may lead to micro-earthquakes. This study offers insights into the role of friction in fluid-filled faults and could guide monitoring at injection sites.
Women with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and/or antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) are at increased risk of reduced fertility and pregnancy complications. EULAR's new recommendations provide guidance on supporting family planning, assisted reproduction, and healthy pregnancy in these patients.
Researchers used virtual reality to investigate how humans navigate in the dark, confirming a similar navigation system to that found in rats. Participants performed tasks with varying enclosure sizes, showing consistent results with predictions from previous studies and rat experiments.
Min Yu, a USC stem cell researcher, has been named a Pew-Stewart scholar for her work on metastatic breast cancer. She aims to identify molecular adaptations and genetic mutations that allow circulating tumor cells to establish new tumors throughout the body.
A large-scale analysis found that postmenopausal women who were overweight and obese had a higher risk of invasive breast cancer compared to those of normal weight. The study, published in JAMA Oncology, suggests that obesity may contribute to an increased risk of breast cancer.