The acorn worm's genome has revealed the origin of the human pharynx, showing how gill slits evolved into the jaw and throat. The study found that humans and other terrestrial vertebrates retain vestigial gills in embryos, a trait shared with marine animals.
Research by UCSB anthropologists found that parasitic intestinal worms can impact the timing of pregnancies among Tsimane women, with hookworm infection increasing intervals between births and roundworm infection shortening them. This study suggests helminth infections may affect demographic patterns in developing populations.
Researchers found that prenatal exposure to valproic acid inhibited new neuron birth and impaired learning, but running prevented these effects. The findings suggest that voluntary exercise could improve cognitive functioning in children of epileptic mothers.
A study found that combining bacterial protein Skp with small molecules can convert pluripotent cells into functional neurons. The research used Sox2 and Skp to initiate differentiation, followed by the use of neurodazine to direct lineage-specific commitment.
Fish scales have evolved to scramble light polarization, creating an 'omnidirectional' solution for camouflage. This discovery could lead to the development of new materials to help hide objects in the water.
Researchers have discovered ancient fossil forests in Svalbard, Norway, dating back 380 million years, which may hold the secrets to a 15-fold reduction in atmospheric CO2 levels. The dense, equatorial forests were likely formed by lycopod trees and could provide valuable information on the evolution of tree-sized vegetation.
A recent study published in American Journal of Epidemiology found that moderate amounts of caffeine during pregnancy do not harm the child's intelligence or behavior. Researchers analyzed data from 2,197 expectant mothers and found no associations between maternal caffeine intake and childhood obesity or behavioral problems.
A study reveals that yeast cells falsely perceive a specific pattern of stress as an ever-increasing ramp, leading to their self-destruction. The findings suggest that many cell types, including human cells, may be predisposed to misperceptions and could be fooled by carefully engineered illusions.
STEREO-A has resumed its normal science operations, transmitting lower-resolution real-time data and high-definition images of the sun's surface and atmosphere with a two- to three-day delay. This allows scientists to better track solar events and make accurate models of interplanetary space weather.
A new study published in Cell Press found that the glycemic index of foods varies significantly between individuals, contradicting traditional dietary recommendations. The research, led by Eran Segal and Eran Elinav, used a large cohort of participants to demonstrate the power of personalized nutrition in managing blood sugar levels an...
Researchers developed a new system to image individual neurons in the marmoset brain, overcoming limitations with two-photon microscopy. This allows for long-term study of neural activity related to cognitive and social behaviors.
Researchers from Tohoku University created a modified DNA sequence that increases sucrose levels in tomatoes without limiting growth. The technology also affects amino acid metabolism, resulting in higher levels of several key compounds.
Researchers have identified a new protein, NELL2, that acts as a 'Do Not Enter' sign to guide axons across the midline of the spinal cord. This finding contributes to solving the mystery of axon guidance and may advance therapeutic approaches for neuronal repair.
Chitons have eyes with mineral-based lenses in their shells, allowing them to visualize predators and respond quickly. The size and complexity of individual chiton eyes impact the local mechanical performance of their armor, highlighting trade-offs between protection and sight.
Researchers are studying how online dating technologies affect romantic connections, self-concepts, and decision-making processes. The project explores the social implications of updated online dating systems and their design features.
A study published in the American Heart Association journal Stroke found that bilingual patients were twice as likely as those who spoke one language to have normal cognitive functions after a stroke. The research also showed that bilinguals performed better on post-stroke tests measuring attention and information retrieval.
Researchers at Rockefeller University discovered a new signaling molecule, NELL2, that guides axons during critical brain development. The molecule directs commissural axons to the midline using Robo3 receptors, shedding light on axon guidance and potential treatments for horizontal gaze palsy with progressive scoliosis.
A blood test can predict how quickly patients recover from surgery by identifying their unique immune state before the procedure, according to a new study. This simple test may help personalize recovery approaches and have a significant impact on perioperative medicine.
UF Health researchers have discovered four novel proteins that contribute to Huntington's disease by accumulating in the brain and killing neurons. The proteins, known as RAN proteins, are made without a signal in the genetic code and build up as aggregated clusters that lead to cell death.
Neurofibromatosis 1 (NF1) is a genetic condition that can lead to premature cardiovascular disease due to thickening or thinning of blood vessel walls. Researchers are studying the similarities between NF1-related arterial stenosis and aneurysms to improve diagnosis and treatment.
Researchers successfully transplanted human-induced pluripotent stem cell-derived kidney tissues into mouse kidneys, where the animal's blood vessels connected to the human tissue. The advance allows for the creation of urine-producing kidneys through regenerative medicine.
Researchers used urine-derived induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) to model hypercholesterolemia and predict patient responses to cholesterol-lowering drugs. The study shows that these models can be used to test the efficacy of PCSK9 inhibitors, potentially paving the way for personalized treatment.
A new study found that nonhuman primates in Bangladesh and Cambodia harbor diverse astroviruses, including human astroviruses, challenging the paradigm that AstV infection is species-specific. The researchers also detected recombinant viruses that may be more efficiently transmitted.
Researchers from Kumamoto University and The University of Tokyo have elucidated the control of cellular movement during blood vessel formation, showing that tip cells and trailing cells move at different speeds and directions. This study provides new insights into the complex cellular motion involved in blood vessel proliferation.
Pedestrian wheelchair users in the US are more than a third likely to die in road traffic collisions. Men's risk is 5 times higher than women's, particularly among 50- to 64-year-olds. Inadequate pedestrian facilities and driver failure contribute to these risks.
Research found that more than half of children in the US misperceive or reject their parents' political party affiliations. Social support from parents increases the likelihood of children adopting their party identifications but not necessarily knowing them accurately.
A large prospective community-based study of older Americans found that modest physical activity is associated with a lower risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD). Walking at a pace faster than three miles per hour and engaging in leisure activities such as lawn-mowing, raking, or hiking also showed significant CVD benefits.
Researchers found that certain fish species exhibit lower polarization contrast with their backgrounds, making them harder to spot. The platelets in these fish align on vertical axes to reflect downward-directed light and diffuse horizontal-axis light, providing enhanced camouflage abilities.
Researchers at the University of Montreal Hospital Research Centre have developed a new injectable biogel that can deliver anti-cancer agents directly into cancerous tumours. The biogel is effective in killing cancer cells and has shown promising results in laboratory tests, including the destruction of melanoma and kidney cancer cells.
A new personalized method for testing drug effectiveness in multiple myeloma predicts the best treatments for individual patients. The test suggests commonly prescribed drugs or combination therapies, as well as optimal dosages.
The PLOS Genetics Research Prize 2015 was awarded to Barroso-Batista et al. for their study on the adaptation of E. coli to the gut, which found that clonal interference dominates early stages of adaptation. The research used mice as hosts and demonstrated high reproducibility in populations evolving in different mice.
A team of scientists has successfully developed a working prototype of a 'shoebox-sized accelerator on a chip,' which could revolutionize fields like biology, chemistry, and materials science. The $13.5 million grant-funded project aims to make particle accelerators smaller, cheaper, and more accessible.
A new study suggests parasitic worms can impact human reproduction rates, with roundworms increasing childbearing by up to two more children than uninfected women, while hookworms decrease it by up to three fewer children.
A recent study published in Neuron shows that brain layers facilitate the rapid development of neuronal circuits, but are not essential for establishing cell-type specific connections. The researchers used zebrafish as a model system to demonstrate this and found that layer formation is necessary for speeding up circuit assembly.
Researchers explore new pre-exposure prophylaxis strategies, broadly neutralizing antibodies, and innate antibacterial activity in relation to HIV acquisition. Advances in vaccine development and emerging clinical trial results offer promising near-term strategies for reducing HIV transmission.
A recent study by Georgetown University researchers reveals that wheelchair users are approximately 36% more likely to die in road traffic collisions. The majority of fatal crashes occurred at intersections with poor pedestrian infrastructure, indicating the need for improved accessibility and safety measures.
Taxonomists can accelerate their workflows by using DNA barcoding and diagnostic characters to describe new species. Dr. Gunnar Brehm's study revises the Neotropical looper moth genus Hagnagora efficiently, including the description of three new species.
A new USGS study reveals that piping plovers are likely losing their breeding habitat in the Great Plains due to wetland drainage and climate change. The research found that consolidation drainage results in fewer and fuller wetlands with less shoreline nesting space for the species.
Gammaherpesvirus co-opts host SINE RNA transcripts to activate immune response and boost viral transcription. This finding reveals a new role for SINE RNAs in the host-pathogen interaction.
Researchers found that human brains have a subset of cells that fire in response to inputs from both eyes, similar to those in rodents. This discovery suggests that humans have the best possible visual system, with primitive pathways allowing for quick spotting of danger and complex behaviors.
Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center have identified a pathogen-sensing molecule called Absent in Melanoma 2 (AIM2) that plays a vital role in maintaining gastrointestinal health. AIM2 detects DNA of harmful microorganisms and regulates inflammation in the gut, which could lead to targeted therapies for inflammatory bowel dise...
A UMD study found that improving fitness through moderate exercise can counteract brain atrophy in older adults with mild cognitive impairment. The study showed increased cortical thickness in both healthy and MCI participants, with greater improvements seen in those with MCI.
The Show-Me Healthy Marriages and Relationships program aims to improve parenting skills, economic stability, and personal well-being in low-resource Missouri residents. Through a five-year project, 2,000 participants will receive wrap-around services, including relationship education classes and text messaging support.
Researchers found that supercritical carbon dioxide (SC-CO2) pretreatment increased sugar yields from empty fruit bunches by up to 37%, with the addition of alkali further increasing glucose production. The study provides visual evidence of surface changes in pretreated biomass.
Researchers develop nanoparticles that can carry therapeutics across the brain blood barrier, offering new hope for treating glioblastoma multiforme. The 3HM nanocarriers show promising attributes for treating brain cancers.
Researchers from Virginia Tech Carilion Research Institute and clinicians have discovered a way to sensitize human glioblastoma cells to chemotherapy, offering new hope for patients with aggressive brain cancer. The breakthrough involves inhibiting connexin 43, a protein that facilitates cell signaling in damaged cells.
A new study reveals helpful bacteria living inside the Asian citrus psyllid affect its ability to spread the citrus greening disease pathogen. The infection alters the insect's metabolism and triggers an immune response, potentially increasing the pathogen's transmission.
Researchers from University of Alberta engaged citizen scientists to investigate the effects of bird feeders on bird-window collisions. The study found that the presence of a bird feeder does indicate collision risk, but other factors like vegetation and house characteristics also play a role.
Decreasing county-wide psychiatric services led to a significant increase in emergency psychiatric consults and prolonged hospital stays. The study found that patients with mental illness faced greater challenges in accessing care, resulting in increased medical issues.
Scientists have discovered that certain fish use microscopic structures called platelets in their skin cells to reflect polarized light, allowing them to camouflage themselves from predators. This discovery could lead to the development of more effective materials and technologies for ocean camouflage.
A new project aims to incorporate ecological processes into Earth system models to predict the effectiveness of land management practices in mitigating climate change. The project, led by Quinn Thomas, will use field data and a state-of-the-art model to better understand key ecological processes and their impact on climate.
Tropical Storm Rick strengthened into a tropical storm on Nov. 19, becoming the 21st of the Eastern Pacific Ocean season. The storm joined an elite group of late-season storms, with only three tropical storms forming later than this date since reliable records began in the early 1970s.
Health experts argue that pharmaceutical companies abuse the Orphan Drug Act by marketing drugs for common conditions, generating billions in profits. The law was designed to encourage rare disease treatments but has instead led to high medication costs and monopolies.
A fossilized muscle-worm, discovered by University of Bristol scientists, was named Rollinschaeta myoplena in honor of punk musician Henry Rollins. The discovery highlights exceptional preservation of soft tissues in fossils, providing details about extinct animals.
A study suggests global fires have a clear weekly pattern with Sunday being the least active day, resulting in 8% fewer fires than Tuesdays. The study's findings highlight the influence of human activities on natural phenomena.
A Virginia Tech researcher has won a $7.2 million grant to develop a program promoting healthy relationships and economic stability for low-income couples. The 'Together' project aims to improve couples' well-being, parenting, financial management, and employment through integrated solutions.
The South Central Climate Science Center has developed a tribal engagement strategy to build capacity in Tribes to conduct their own climate science research. The center's partnerships have led to the development of five new Bureau of Indian Affairs Tribal Liaisons, enabling tribes nationwide to respond to climate change.
The concentration of THC in Danish cannabis has tripled over 20 years, reaching an average of 28% per cent in recent samples. This significant increase is attributed to the growing trend of skunk farms in Denmark, which provide high-quality cannabis plants with elevated THC levels.
Researchers have uncovered a mechanism that helps repair damaged synapses, enabling optimal neuronal communication. This discovery highlights the importance of microautophagy in breaking down cellular debris and may lead to new treatments for neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's.
A new study published in Nicotine & Tobacco Research found that exposure to e-cigarette ads increased curiosity and trial of e-cigarettes among young adults. Approximately 6% of never-users tried an e-cigarette within six months after ad exposure, compared to 1.2% of unexposed individuals.
A team of scientists identified a population of 'stop cells' in the brainstem that enable mice to halt their locomotion. These cells depress neuronal networks involved in generating locomotor rhythm, allowing animals to make graceful stops. The findings may provide insights into how locomotion is affected in diseases like Parkinson's.
Researchers at Indiana University have calculated the lifetime energy requirements of multiple cell types and genes, revealing a linear relationship between energy consumption and cell volume. This study challenges existing theories on the role of mitochondria in driving genome complexity and evolution.
Two studies examined long-term outcomes in childhood and young adult cancer survivors, finding increased hospitalization rates for certain types of cancer. Long-term survivors also faced a higher risk of neurocognitive impairment, particularly those with osteosarcoma.
Researchers have developed a new computed tomography method that uses scattering to visualize nanostructures in objects measuring just a few millimeters. This technique allows for the precise three-dimensional visualization of collagen fibers in human teeth, revealing their detailed structure for the first time.
Researchers at Kumamoto University have successfully connected iPS-derived kidney cells to a capillary network, enabling the formation of a functional filtration membrane. This breakthrough has significant implications for regenerative medicine and organ transplantation, particularly for patients with renal failure.
Researchers develop simple raisin test to forecast a child's attention and learning capacity. The test shows that premature-born toddlers are more likely to struggle with attention regulation and academic achievement.
A study found that after 6 months of hydroxyurea treatment, sickle cell disease patients' kidney function improved significantly. The urinary albumin/creatine ratio decreased, indicating a potential renal benefit of HU in sickle cell disease.
Researchers from TUM developed a robust intestinal model for molecular research into incretin release, growing mini-intestines in a test tube that exhibit functions of the human intestine. The mini-intestines can absorb nutrients and release hormones, transmitting signals to control these processes.
Atomic-level imaging of catalysts using ORNL microscopy has enabled the tracking of atomic reconfigurations in individual platinum-cobalt nanoparticle catalysts during heating. This study provides valuable insights into the evolution of specific atomic configurations and their impact on catalytic performance.
Researchers at Columbia University Medical Center found that neighboring serotonin-producing brainstem regions exert different and sometimes opposing effects on behavior. Alterations in serotonergic neuronal activity in the DRN and MRN produce markedly different behavioral consequences, leading to an imbalance between DRN and MRN activ...
A case of aconitine-induced cardiovascular symptoms is reported in the Canadian Journal of Cardiology. The patient developed bidirectional ventricular tachycardia after consuming a medicinal liquid containing aconitine, a toxic substance from the Aconitum plant.
A comprehensive study found that bullying and physical fighting prevalence varies greatly across countries; in wealthy but unequal nations, education investment reduces physical fighting rates
Researchers at Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard have deciphered the 3-dimensional architecture of a chiton mollusk's eyes, which are made of inorganic aragonite crystals. The findings could help determine rules for generating man-made multifunctional materials with sensory capabilities.
Despite improved email security measures, significant issues remain, including downgraded communication and lack of encryption on some servers, according to a new report. The study highlights the need for individuals and organizations to adopt secure protocols to protect sensitive data.
Scientists from Scripps Research Institute have found that the interaction between a pair of brain proteins has a substantial effect on memory formation. The study reveals that when these two receptors interact, the ghrelin receptor changes the structure of the dopamine receptor and alters its signaling pathway.
Researchers from the University of Southampton developed a new type of drug that activates stem cells in bones, causing them to divide and produce more bone cells. This approach may lead to faster and more effective bone healing, particularly for people undergoing hip replacement surgery.
A study published in Cell Metabolism found that weight loss surgery curbs sweet tooth behavior by reducing dopamine release in the brain. The research suggests that positive outcomes are more likely if sugary foods seem less rewarding after surgery.
A team of researchers has made significant progress in developing a miniature particle accelerator on a microchip, with the potential to revolutionize various fields such as biology, materials science, security scanning, medical therapy, and X-ray imaging.
A new study published in the American Sociological Review found that more than half of children in the US either misperceive or reject their parents' political party affiliations. The study suggests that parent-child communication and social support do not necessarily lead to accurate transmission of political values.
Scientists can now observe neurons' electrical activity in real-time using a highly sensitive molecule fused with a fluorescent protein. This breakthrough allows researchers to study brain processing in living animals, offering unprecedented insights into cell-to-cell communication.
Researchers have identified a biochemical pathway regulated by aspirin, which decreases the level of 2-hydroxyglutarate, a driver of cancer development. This study adds to the evidence for aspirin's importance in cancer prevention and highlights a new pathway worth further investigation.
Researchers found that combinations of non-toxic chemicals, many derived from plants and foods, may stop untreatable cancers and prevent disease relapses. The task force identified 74 molecular targets with potential anti-cancer effects, paving the way for low-cost therapies.
A new report reveals that fewer than one in three hospitals employ a full-time doctor specializing in liver medicine, leading to a postcode lottery for patients. The UK's specialist liver centres provide excellent care but are not evenly distributed, resulting in poor patient outcomes and a lack of access to specialist care.
Researchers have sequenced the complete genetic makeup of a type of algae called haptophytes, which are abundant in oceans and account for 30-40% of photosynthesis. The study reveals new insights into how these algal species regulate their fat content, which could help improve biofuel production, nutrition and ecology.
Research found that prenatal exposure to marijuana improves a child's ability to track moving objects, while alcohol has a negative effect on visual processing. The study suggests that health professionals can counteract the negative effects of drug use in pregnancy.
Researchers found a categorical distinction between people who are heterosexual and those who are not, with notable mental health issues among non-heterosexuals. The study's findings support biological hypotheses of sexual orientation and challenge the notion of homosexuality as a lifestyle choice.
A new study found that children from chaotic homes who attended more hours of child care experienced better cognitive, emotional and social development. Higher degrees of household chaos were associated with less optimal executive functioning, weaker vocabularies and worse social behavior.
A mass drug administration (MDA) program implemented in Southern Greece eliminated malaria cases for two years, preventing a resurgence of the disease. The MDA covered 87% of an immigrant population and was effective in minimizing the risk of drug resistance.
Researchers found that electric mobility could be a crucial factor in reducing CO2 emissions from transportation, which currently accounts for 23% of global emissions. Improved urban infrastructure policies, such as investing in public transport and bike paths, can also lead to significant reductions in emissions.
Typhoon In-fa intensified quickly from a tropical depression to a typhoon, maintaining tropical-storm force on Nov. 19. Rainfall data revealed powerful convective thunderstorms with rates over 74 mm/hour, while storm top heights reached up to 16.7 km.
A new study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that consuming tree nuts lowers total cholesterol, triglycerides, LDL cholesterol, and ApoB, key factors used to evaluate a person's risk of cardiovascular disease. Consuming at least two servings of walnuts per day has stronger effects on total cholesterol and LDL.
Researchers have revealed the architecture of a protein complex called CCAN, which plays a foundational role in chromosome segregation during cell division. The study found that each subcomplex needs to touch many others to be functional, forming a mesh structure crucial for kinetochore assembly and stability.
Research at the University of Sussex found that loving-kindness meditation can reduce racial bias, with increases in other-regarding emotions driving the reduction. The study used the Implicit Association Test to measure reaction times and found that seven minutes of LKM reduced prejudice towards a specific ethnic group.
A new study published in JAMA Psychiatry found that a free, web-based cognitive behavioral therapy tool called MoodGYM can reduce suicidal thoughts in interns by nearly four times the normal rate. The tool offers a digital, streamlined form of talk therapy to support mental health.
Researchers found that brain activation patterns of individuals with autism spectrum disorder adapt differently during implicit learning, with slower recognition of familiar patterns. The severity of symptoms correlates with the degree of brain adaptation, suggesting a link between neural characteristics and core ASD symptoms.
Researchers at Boston University School of Medicine have identified Th17 cells and Th1 as key players in obesity-associated type 2 diabetes. The study reveals a biomarker that can predict the development of Type 2 diabetes in 75% of people with obesity, offering new potential targets for prevention.
Researchers found that mice exercising on a wheel increased SIRT3 levels, protecting against neurodegeneration and degeneration. Bolstering mitochondrial function with gene therapy technology also offered protection against stress and age-related cognitive decline.
A new algorithm combines apparent motion of obstacles with a target direction to avoid collisions, resulting in the formation of common routes. This approach is inspired by insects' navigation and can be used for autonomous robots navigating complex environments.
Researchers at TSRI are developing a potential heroin vaccine to block the drug's active products from reaching the brain. The vaccine trains immune system antibodies to recognize and bind to heroin molecules, reducing the risk of relapse in recovering addicts.
Researchers found that infants of blind parents paid less attention to adults' eye gaze compared to those with sighted parents. However, these infants developed advanced visual attention and memory skills, suggesting active learning from their blind caregivers.
A study published in Respirology found that high levels of physical activity may worsen asthma control in young females, but not males. The research highlights the importance of considering physical activity when treating asthma in highly active females.
Cancer researchers have developed an animal model to study and target the rare tumor angiosarcoma. By controlling mTORC1 activity, they found that blocking key targets effectively halted tumor development and growth.
Researchers at UMD and ARL have created a Water-in-Salt aqueous Lithium ion battery technology that doubles the voltage of current batteries without fire risk or poisonous chemicals. The new technology holds great promise for safety-critical applications, including electric vehicles and grid storage.
Researchers have developed two new catalysts effective in removing trichloroethylene, a carcinogenic compound found in tap water, through hydrodechlorination. The catalysts, cheaper and more efficient than existing ones, enable a wider use of the reaction to purify water.
Researchers at the Babraham Institute have discovered a delicate balance between three key transcription factors that determine the fate of trophoblast stem cells. This balance, rather than the presence or absence of individual factors, dictates whether stem cells self-renew or differentiate into specialized cell types.
Researchers have found that a commonly used Type II diabetes medication can effectively clear fatty liver disease from some patients. After a 48-week trial, 4 out of 10 patients showed significant improvement in non-alcoholic steatohepatitis symptoms.
A recent study by the CDC found that US adults now smoke at a rate of 17.8%, the lowest since 1965. However, smoking rates remain high among three groups: American Indians, LGBT individuals, and those with mental health issues. The largest non-profit quitline in the US is hiring Native coaches to better serve these communities.
A national insurance database analysis revealed that 1 in 352 women had unsuspected cancer after undergoing minimally invasive gynecologic surgeries. The study highlights the need for safer alternatives to power morcellation to avoid worsening a woman's prognosis.
Researchers at the University of Georgia have developed a technique to measure an individual's visual processing speed, which can predict executive cognitive functioning. The study used a simple test of visual flicker to evaluate brain function quality, and found that older adults had slower visual processing speeds.
Scientists have developed an app to monitor food security using a smartphone, combining weather and soil moisture data from satellites with crowd-sourced data on population vulnerability. The tool has shown promising results in the Central African Republic, providing valuable information for organizations like Doctors without Borders.
Researchers at the University of Massachusetts Amherst are exploring the potential impact of Antarctica's ice sheet melting on global climate. They will use a high-resolution ocean model to simulate iceberg calving and freshwater discharge, which could disrupt ocean currents and circulation in the North Atlantic.