Researchers have discovered a 425-million-year-old fossil of an ancient tongue worm parasite, providing significant insights into the origins of parasitism. The new species, Invavita piratica, is remarkably well-preserved and has been found attached to its host animal, an ostracod, in Herefordshire, England.
As we age, our gut's immune system regulator IL-6 increases, leading to chronic low-grade inflammation and a weakened barrier, making us more susceptible to infections and diseases.
Researchers have developed a new technology that uses synthetic microRNA switches to purify live human cells with improved efficiency. The method, which involves identifying unique miRNAs for each cell type, shows promise for clinical applications and could lead to more homogeneous cell pools and better cell therapy outcomes.
Research suggests that Doha's rise is driven by relational economic geography and urban development, with the Oryx antelope logo symbolizing its growth. However, the city lacks cohesive development plans and amenities for knowledge workers, which may hinder its success.
The Office of Naval Research has developed a new augmented reality training system, which includes 'optical see-through' glasses that enable warfighters to turn any environment into a training ground. The system aims to improve situational awareness and decision-making capabilities for Marines.
New study reveals that many known cancer-promoting genes are already present in normal, sun-exposed skin cells, even before they become cancerous. The researchers found that over 25% of normal skin cells carry at least one driver mutation, suggesting a higher frequency of cancer-causing mutations in normal skin than previously thought.
Pharmacy Doctorate students from University of Houston won awards for clinical skills and disease state management at the Texas Society of Health-System Pharmacists Meeting. The teams demonstrated their abilities in patient consultation and developed therapeutic plans to identify problems, strategy, and monitoring.
A large registry study found that patients experiencing stent thrombosis between 2-30 days post-procedure had higher mortality rates compared to those who developed the complication within 24 hours. The timing of stent thrombosis may be linked to more severe infarction and long-term heart failure.
A new study published in The Lancet reveals that ACE inhibitors and angiotensin-receptor blockers (ARBs) are the most effective treatments for preventing end-stage kidney disease in adults with diabetes. These medications, used alone or in combination, have been shown to protect kidney function in the long term.
Researchers discovered that myxobacteria cells can use social behavior to repair damaged siblings by exchanging outer membrane content. This cooperative behavior improves the fitness of the entire bacterial population.
New research reveals that savannahs are a major driver of carbon sequestration globally, outpacing tropical rainforests. The semi-arid ecosystems can control fluctuations in atmospheric CO2 concentrations, and their importance should not be overlooked in climate policy discussions.
Astronomers discovered a peculiar Wolf-Rayet star, Nasty 1, with a vast pancake-shaped gas disk encircling it. The disk may have formed from an unseen companion star through mass transfer in a binary system.
A Dartmouth study found that TV food commercials stimulate the brains of overweight teenagers, particularly those controlling pleasure, taste, and mouth regions. The findings suggest these mental simulations may make it difficult for obese teens to lose weight later in life.
A team of researchers from Montana State University has identified a new chemical compound called IQ-1S that shows promise in treating rheumatoid arthritis. The study found that IQ-1S significantly reduced the severity of collagen-induced arthritis and inhibited the destruction of cartilage and bone.
Researchers at the University of Illinois have developed heat-triggered self-destructing electronic devices that dissolve into their molecular components. This technology reduces electronic waste and boosts sustainability in device manufacturing.
Treatment with Botox improves skin pliability and elasticity, mimicking more youthful skin. However, these changes last only for four months, returning to pre-treatment levels.
A study reveals that cancer-associated mutations exist in a significant percentage of normal skin cells, potentially offering insights into the origins of cancer. Researchers found that skin cells carry thousands of mutations caused by sun exposure, with around 25% carrying at least one cancer-associated mutation.
The GOES-R satellite has begun environmental testing to simulate the harsh conditions of launch and the space environment. This includes vibration, acoustics, and temperature testing to ensure the satellite is properly protected from electromagnetic phenomena in space.
Researchers at Norwich BioScience Institutes have discovered plant receptors with built-in decoys that detect pathogens, triggering the plant's defense mechanism. These receptors are designed to trick pathogens into binding with them, which then triggers a shutdown of the cell to contain the pathogen.
Researchers created a human embryonic stem cell model that allows real-time tracking of cellular behavior during early human development. The study discovered critical molecular cues required for the formation of the neurovascular unit, comprising endothelial cells, smooth muscle cells, and autonomic neurons.
Researchers at UC Davis will investigate how virtual schooling affects student achievement and teacher effectiveness in a three-year study of Florida's K-12 virtual education sector. The study, led by Assistant Professor Cassandra Hart, aims to provide insights for policymakers and school personnel on avenues for improvement.
A study published in Neuron found that people tend to prefer snacks they can recall better, even if they are less attractive. The researchers used fMRI scans and mathematical modeling to understand how memory influences decision-making, revealing an increase in communication between the hippocampus and ventromedial prefrontal cortex.
A clinical trial has successfully implanted a neural prosthetic device in a region of the brain that controls intentions, allowing a paralyzed person to control a robotic arm with their thoughts. This new approach produces more natural and fluid motions compared to current neuroprosthetics.
A new study found that genetically modified corn's Cry1Ab toxin has little impact on the corn earworm, contradicting earlier predictions. The results suggest that pest resistance to GM crops may be more widespread than initially thought, highlighting the need for ongoing monitoring and research.
Twin boundaries, naturally occurring defects in materials, can act as energy highways to enhance lithium-ion battery performance. Researchers have discovered that these defects can transport lithium ions more efficiently, leading to better battery life.
The development of a two-photon ophthalmoscope aims to enhance retina imaging and detect eye diseases earlier, with potential applications in other organs as well. The instrument's super-magnification capabilities could accelerate the discovery of new eye therapies.
A new survey by Lappeenranta University of Technology found that companies consider wage-related costs and a lack of competence among supervisors the biggest barriers to increasing productivity. Researchers recommend prioritizing supervisor education and creating a more supportive environment for entrepreneurship and innovation.
Researchers at UC Davis found that pediatric telemedicine consultations with rural emergency departments save an average of $4,662 compared to telephone consults. The study also revealed significant savings from reduced transfers between hospitals and lower costs for urban hospitals.
OU Professor Jizhong Zhou has been recognized for his outstanding contributions in environmental genomics and microbial ecology. He is being honored for developing innovative metagenomics technologies and groundbreaking discoveries about microbial systems in response to environmental change.
Biosyncaucho produces an alternative compound using renewable resources, addressing the shortage of 1,3-butadiene and its associated environmental impact. The technology has the potential to provide economically viable and greener alternatives for various industries.
A longitudinal study found that chronic gamblers are more likely to experience depressive problems, with 73% of those with significant gambling issues also suffering from depression. Early prevention programs targeting impulsive individuals and poor relationships with friends may help prevent these issues.
Dana-Farber Cancer Institute scientists have developed a new, potent form of targeted cancer therapy using tumor cells' own protein-chopping machinery. The approach causes cancer cells to die quickly, potentially preventing resistance to conventional targeted therapies.
New research suggests that feeling inauthentic can lead to psychological consequences similar to immoral behaviors, including feelings of moral distress and impurity. Inauthentic individuals were more likely to engage in cleansing-related behaviors, such as using hand sanitizer or washing their hands.
A large study found that people with depression were 3.2 times more likely to develop Parkinson's disease within a year after diagnosis. The link between depression and Parkinson's disease remained even when adjusting for other conditions related to depression.
A recent study presented at EuroPCR 2015 found that thickening of valve leaflets following TAVI or surgical aortic valve implantation is relatively rare and not linked to short-term clinical events. The study suggests that current TAVI and TAVR programs do not need modification, but further research is needed.
Researchers have detailed two surgical approaches for auditory brainstem implantation, including a translabyrinthine and retrosigmoid approach, to minimize damage to the brainstem and improve speech recognition. The procedures aim to restore hearing in patients with NF2 and other causes of retrocochlear deafness.
Researchers found that oral thrush activates a mechanism in T-reg cells to transform inflammation-fighting cells into cells that allow the disease to flourish. The study may lead to new ways to fight diseases by identifying chronic inflammation and blocking inflammatory proteins.
Researchers found phages in 49 out of 50 chicken samples that can transduce antimicrobial resistance genes to E. coli bacteria, highlighting the need for phage therapy and improved disinfection methods.
A study published in Value in Health suggests that focusing solely on financial sustainability can jeopardize the long-term viability of healthcare systems. The researchers argue that considering social and political aspects is crucial for building universal healthcare systems.
A study by the University of Pittsburgh found an association between exposure to fine particulate air pollution and an increased risk of childhood autism. The research estimated that children exposed to higher levels of PM2.5 during pregnancy and early life were at a 1.5-fold greater risk of developing ASD.
Researchers have developed genetic maps that reveal ancient migration patterns of black bears in North America, providing insights into their evolution and distribution. The study identifies four glacial refugia where bears retreated during ice ages and shows how they dispersed into different regions.
A study found that customers rate customer service agents higher when they use emoticons in their responses, indicating a sense of emotional connection. Agents who respond quickly also receive positive ratings, as this creates a feeling of social presence.
Researchers implanted microelectrodes in a tetraplegic patient's brain to read neuronal activity related to intended movements. The study successfully predicted limb and eye movements, enabling control of a robotic arm with unprecedented accuracy.
A new study by CIFAR Fellow John McCutcheon's lab found that bacteria in cicada guts have split into many separate but interdependent species. This phenomenon leaves the cicadas reliant on a bloated genome and multiple species to create essential amino acids.
A new study finds that measles virus has rigid surface proteins that can't tolerate mutations, making it less prone to evolution than the flu virus. This difference in protein stability may explain why measles only requires a two-dose vaccine during childhood for lifelong immunity.
Researchers have developed high-throughput techniques to quickly and easily give every cell in a sample a unique genetic barcode, enabling scientists to analyze complex tissues at the single-cell level. This breakthrough allows for deeper understanding of cell diversity and gene expression.
Doctors at TUM used navigated transcranial magnetic stimulation to map motor areas in patients with malignant brain tumors. This method improved prognosis by reducing residual tumor tissue and shortening hospitalization periods. Mapping of motor areas also enabled surgeons to remove tumors without affecting functional areas.
Marine viruses and microbes interact on a global scale, driving ecological processes and producing half of the oxygen we breathe. A study by an international team led by University of Arizona scientists reveals how viral communities maintain high regional diversity through passive transport by ocean currents.
Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania found that mice use separate systems to determine their location and direction, with environmental cues influencing place recognition but not heading retrieval. The study used identical rooms with different markings on the north wall, which allowed researchers to isolate the two processes.
A two-stage brain circuit is essential for tactile sensation, involving communication between the skin and brain. Mice were rendered unable to sense floor textures when their inner circuit was disabled, highlighting the critical role of this neural pathway in touch perception.
A study by King's College London found that mood instability occurs in a wide range of mental disorders and is not exclusive to affective conditions. The research also identified that mood instability was associated with poorer clinical outcomes, such as longer hospital stays and increased use of antipsychotic medication.
Obesity alters splicing patterns of genes TCF7L2 and INSR, leading to impaired insulin action. Weight loss reverses these changes, suggesting a targeted treatment approach for metabolic disorders. Alternative splicing regulates obesity-related gene expression, offering new diagnostic and therapeutic avenues.
Researchers used IBM's supercomputing power to model cellulose at the molecular level, revealing a new understanding of its structure and dynamics. The insights could lead to disease-resistant crop varieties and increased sustainability in the pulp and paper industry.
A radio-tracking study by Jennifer Fill and colleagues shows that eastern diamondback rattlesnakes depend on pine savanna habitats with frequent fires. The study found that every studied snake had pine savanna as part of its home range, highlighting the importance of preserving this ecosystem for the species' survival.
A recent study found that the thunder god vine extract reduces food intake by up to 80% and causes a 45% decrease in body weight in obese mice. The compound Celastrol enhances leptin action, a hormone signaling fullness to the brain, improving ER function and sensitivity.
Researchers at TSRI have developed a novel reaction to synthesize complex amines using abundant compounds, offering improved efficiency and reduced costs. The new method has been successfully applied in pharmaceutical research, providing access to valuable drug compounds.
Researchers found that migratory birds' social hierarchy plays a significant role in avoiding collisions with obstacles like wind turbines. The study's computer simulations revealed that groups with a single well-informed leader are more likely to avoid such hazards.
A nationwide Danish register study tracking 190,000 individuals found a clear correlation between hospitalization due to infections and impaired cognitive ability. The study shows that even after treatment, patients can experience lasting effects on their IQ scores.
NASA's CloudSat analyzed Typhoon Dolphin's eye, revealing intense convection and rainfall surrounding the storm. The satellite's data also showed the outward sloping eyewall and overall cloud structure of the category 5 system.
A Binghamton University doctoral candidate is working on improving data center efficiency by analyzing air flow, turbulence, and cooling capacity. The research aims to reduce energy consumption by up to 30% in data centers.