A study published in Nature Communications reveals a mechanism by which the pathologic version of tau protein spreads from neuron to neuron in the brain, contributing to Alzheimer's disease progression. This process involves the release and uptake of high-molecular-weight, soluble tau proteins that are studded with phosphate molecules.
A University of British Columbia study found that major swaths of the ocean must be protected to reach global biodiversity targets. Currently, only 16% of protected areas are designated as 'no-take' zones, which are crucial for conserving marine life.
Researchers have discovered a new combination of drugs that may be effective against resistant, BRAF-mutant melanoma by targeting different signaling pathways. The combination showed synergistic effects in tumors resistant to BRAF inhibition.
New research supports the idea that human hunting contributed to the decline and extinction of large mammals in the Americas. The study found that the animals' demise began between 13,300-15,000 years ago in Alaska and spread southward across North America and into South America.
A study found that reducing Amazon deforestation leads to improved air quality and a decrease in premature deaths from exposure to particulate matter. The research estimated that the 40% reduction in Brazilian deforestation between 2001-12 prevented approximately 1,700 adult deaths annually in South America.
Researchers can improve research and reduce costs by replacing animal-derived antibodies with modern technologies like recombinant antibodies and aptamers. This switch has the potential to save tens of thousands of animals from suffering in laboratories.
Researchers found that salamander-like regenerative capacities exist in fossil tetrapods from the Carboniferous and Permian periods. This suggests that high regeneration was a primitive state for all four-legged vertebrates, potentially lost in evolution.
Researchers at Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz and the University of Alabama have successfully synthesized two complex chemical substances from wood-based starting materials. The new xylochemical synthesis demonstrates a cost-effective and environmentally friendly approach to manufacturing everyday products.
A computer model developed by Johns Hopkins predicts that strengthening HIV care, including retention in care and increased testing, can avert 752,000 new infections and 276,000 AIDS deaths over 20 years. Enhanced interventions could reduce incidence by 54% and mortality by 64% at a cost-effectiveness ratio of $45,300 per QALY.
A new study finds that low-weight, high-repetition resistance training increases bone mineral density in adults, with significant gains observed in osteopenic and postmenopausal individuals. The exercise regimen is a feasible option for older and inactive adults, and may help prevent hip fractures.
Researchers at the John Innes Centre have developed a method to produce large quantities of useful natural compounds efficiently by growing them in tomatoes. The study found that one tomato can produce the same amount of Resveratrol as exists in 50 bottles of red wine, and Genistein equivalent to 2.5kg of tofu.
Researchers at Georgia Institute of Technology found that ants can flow like liquids when subjected to high pressure, but also exhibit springy behavior when probed at short times. This unique combination of properties allows ants to build bridges, span gaps, and even self-assemble into rafts to survive floodwaters.
EMBO has selected 23 young researchers as its latest cohort of Young Investigators, representing ten countries and covering various fields of research. The programme offers benefits such as funding, access to core facilities, and professional development opportunities to support their careers.
A team of researchers from UC Riverside and the University of Augsburg developed a technique to analyze novel two-dimensional semiconductors by creating high-frequency sound waves on lithium niobate substrates. This allows for the detection of changes in electric properties of the material when illuminated with laser light.
TB researchers propose a biosocial approach combining biomedical interventions with social actions to address root causes of the disease, which include poverty, malnutrition, and overcrowding. The strategy aims to reduce morbidity and mortality while alleviating poverty and promoting sustainable development.
A head-to-head comparison study by Johns Hopkins researchers shows that non-invasive CT scans are better at spotting clogged heart vessels than stress tests. CT angiograms detected blockages in nine out of ten people, while stress tests picked up blockages in six out of ten.
The extinction of large herbivores during the Late Pleistocene led to significant changes in vegetation composition and landscape openness. This study reveals that large herbivores play a crucial role in shaping their environments, which has major consequences for other species and ecosystem processes.
A four-year multi-partner study investigates the effects of various pressures on freshwater ecosystems, with a focus on connectivity and stressor interactions. The research aims to improve our understanding of these impacts and inform sustainable management strategies.
A team of evolutionary biologists used mathematical models to determine that ancient carnivores could bring down massive herbivores like mastodons and giant ground sloths. The largest cave hyena might have been able to take down a 5-year-old juvenile mastodon weighing over a ton.
Research reveals individual corals have varying capacities to adapt to changing ocean conditions brought about by climate change. The study found that some corals are more protective of their partner algae in harsh environmental conditions, suggesting a greater capacity to respond to climate change.
A new study found that only half of younger heart attack patients believed they were at risk before the attack, with women being less likely to be informed by their doctors. The study highlights a need for better education and counseling on heart disease prevention among young individuals, particularly women.
The new system, developed by EPFL's Distributed Electrical Systems Laboratory, is based on high-performance lithium-ion titanate cells and can store up to 500 kWh of energy. Researchers will use it to study and optimize the functioning of renewable energy systems and feed them into the power distribution grid.
A recent study examines the use of LinkedIn for professional development, finding adults are receptive to sharing knowledge and meeting professionals. However, negative experiences such as unwanted advertisements and unsolicited invitations were also reported.
Researchers found that eating more fruits and vegetables as young adults was associated with less calcified coronary artery plaque 20 years later. People who ate the most fruit and vegetable at the start had a 26% lower risk of developing calcified plaque compared to those who ate the least.
Washington State University researchers have developed a unique protein cage to deliver chemotherapy directly to cancer cells, showing promising results in killing over 70% of lung cancer cells. The system selectively targets cancer cells without attacking healthy cells, potentially reducing side effects.
Researchers review emerging magnetic particle-based techniques to track cells in vivo, providing a promising concept for treating diseases. The techniques can be used for cell therapy, combining diagnosis and treatment.
A new guideline from the Canadian Men's Health Foundation provides a roadmap for diagnosing and treating testosterone deficiency in men. Key recommendations include conducting thorough patient histories, measuring total testosterone levels, and assessing patient response to treatment.
An international team proposes a method for countries to choose their own 'fair' emissions cuts, paving the way for a global consensus. The approach requires one major power to set an ambitious target, with others following suit and choosing their own justice model.
Theodore S. Rappaport, founder of NYU Wireless, received the Edwin Howard Armstrong Achievement Award for his pioneering work on millimeter-wave spectrum research and radio channel modeling. This award recognizes Rappaport's foundational contributions to 5G technology, which is projected to be 1,000 times faster than 4G.
Researchers at NYU have identified brain rhythms that help process music, revealing a role for cortical oscillations in detecting musical sequences. Musicians show enhanced oscillatory mechanisms and better pitch detection accuracy.
A multicenter clinical trial led by CHOP researcher David T. Teachey found that sirolimus, an immunosuppressant drug, is effective in treating autoimmune blood disorders such as ALPS with complete responses and rapid improvements. The treatment has minimal side effects, with most patients able to discontinue steroids within months.
A study found that workers in well-ventilated offices with low indoor pollutants and CO2 have significantly higher cognitive functioning scores than those in typical offices. The researchers identified green building design attributes that influence cognitive function, suggesting improved air quality could greatly increase productivity.
A new study aims to determine the mechanisms that cause some grieving survivors to suffer unanticipated and potentially fatal heart attacks. The researcher hopes to understand how stress, depression, and anxiety contribute to inflammation, a driver of cardiovascular disease.
Researchers found that male mosquitoes are lured to traps emitting sounds similar to female wing-beats. The frequency used was around 484 Hz, capturing over 95% of males exposed to it. This method could enhance studies and mosquito control in developing countries.
Tropical Storm Olaf is returning to its birthplace in the Eastern Pacific Ocean after leaving the Central Pacific. The storm, which formed on October 14, has been weakening and is expected to continue moving eastward.
The American Society of Nephrology (ASN) has released a report outlining current and future challenges to the specialty of nephrology. Key findings include the increasing fragmentation of kidney care, uneven distribution of nephrologists across the US, and declining interest among residents choosing nephrology fellowships.
A recent study found that pregnant women in Brooklyn have the highest levels of methyl paraben and propyl parben, preservatives commonly used in cosmetics. The researchers detected these substances in human cord blood samples and raised concerns about potential health effects on fetal development and child health.
Researchers at Brookhaven National Laboratory and Cornell University have characterized a key arrangement of electrons in a high-temperature superconductor. The study identifies the atomic-scale origins and influences that produce the density wave in cuprates, revealing a link between the electron density wave and pseudogap phase.
Researchers have developed a CRISPR system that can precisely turn on and off specific genomic regions, potentially revolutionizing the study of human diseases. This technique has shown exceptional specificity, enabling precise control over gene expression.
Michigan State University is partnering with the University of Minnesota and J.R. Simplot Company to develop improved potato varieties for smallholder farmers in Bangladesh and Indonesia. The project aims to reduce pesticide use and increase sustainable growing methods.
A large study published in The Lancet found that limited exposure to general anesthesia in infancy does not increase the risk of developmental issues. The study involved over 700 infants and compared the outcomes of children who received general anesthesia with those who received spinal anesthesia.
The USPSTF recommends screening overweight and obese adults between 40-70 for abnormal blood sugar, referring those with high blood sugar to intensive behavioral counseling. Abnormal blood sugar levels increase risk of developing type 2 diabetes, which has risen in prevalence over the past 15 years.
A new study finds that Alaskan permafrost soil is biodegradable, releasing its stored carbon directly back into the atmosphere as CO2. The process occurs rapidly, with almost half of the carbon being consumed by microbes within 200 hours.
RapidScat data revealed strong winds in the remnants of Typhoon Champi near Alaska, with wind speeds reaching up to 80.5 mph/129.6 kph. The storm's effects brought rain, gusty winds, and warmer than normal temperatures to the region.
A new study by Yale School of Medicine researchers found that high post-pregnancy body mass index (BMI) is a significant risk factor for pelvic organ prolapse. Maintaining a healthy weight after delivery may play an important role in preventing early stages of prolapse, according to the research.
A Johns Hopkins University research team has validated a theory on the brain's mechanism of learning, finding that 'eligibility traces' effectively tag neural synapses activated by stimuli, linking actions with rewards. This discovery could enhance teaching methods and lead to treatments for cognitive problems.
A Wayne State University research team, led by Zhengping Yi, aims to discover the abnormality in protein phosphatase 1 contributing to insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes. The $2.58 million NIH grant will support clinical studies, in vitro cell studies, and proteomics research.
A new survey using Japan's Suzaku X-ray satellite reveals that the elements necessary for stars, planets, and people were evenly distributed across the Virgo galaxy cluster at a scale of millions of light-years. This discovery suggests that the chemical makeup of the universe is well mixed, with little variation on the largest scales.
A recent study found that patients with better insulin-producing cells before weight loss surgery are more likely to eliminate diabetes. The research suggests that measuring insulin cells' performance can help doctors predict which patients will benefit from the procedure, emphasizing the importance of early procedures.
Researchers have identified a cellular signal in amniotic fluid that builds up when a pregnant woman is about to go into labor. The study found that telomere fragments in the fluid increase with fetal maturity and can trigger inflammation, signaling fetal readiness for delivery.
A new study examines the effectiveness of a shaken baby syndrome prevention program, Period of PURPLE Crying, which was implemented in North Carolina from 2009-2012. The program, teaching parents about normal infant crying, resulted in a decline of calls to nurse advice line but no significant change in AHT rates.
International workshop highlights need for better forecasting of long-term trends in harmful algal blooms, which threaten wildlife and economies. Research priorities focus on understanding phytoplankton community structure and developing ecological models to prepare for future scenarios.
Only 27% of older patients with diabetes underwent medication deintensification due to very low hemoglobin A1c levels or blood pressure values. Treatment was deintensified in 16% of those with moderately low and 18.8% of those with very low blood pressure levels. The study suggests that medication deintensification is underutilized, pa...
Researchers have created a new material that can store methane more efficiently, enabling the development of natural gas-powered cars with greater driving range and reduced hassle. The flexible MOF expands when methane is pumped in and contracts when it's extracted, making it suitable for use in home compressors.
High-resolution climate models show parts of the Persian Gulf region may surpass survivability thresholds for temperatures above 35°C, posing severe human health risks. The study suggests that curbing greenhouse gas emissions could prevent these extreme heat events.
A new genetic discovery has identified a significant gene called miR137 that is switched off in prostate cancer cells, contributing to the disease's initiation and progression. The study also identified potential targets for next-generation drugs to treat prostate cancer.
A new study found that a 2°C warmer climate may lead to rapid population extinctions in common lizards, with up to 30% of European populations at risk. The researchers used experimental conditions to simulate warmer climates and observed increased adult mortality, decreased population growth rates, and a shift in demographic strategy.
Scientists found that allocating greenhouse-gas emissions reductions will be key for the outcome of COP21 in Paris. A major economy acting as a forerunner and other nations following can limit warming below 2°C. This approach would require significant efforts from countries like the EU and US.
York U researchers list products expectant mothers should avoid during first trimester, including cleaning solvents, pesticides, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Prolonged exposure to these chemicals can disrupt brain development and increase the risk of autism spectrum disorders.
Researchers have discovered molecular changes within tumors that prevent immunotherapy drugs from killing off cancer cells. By reprogramming an epigenetic mechanism, the therapy might work for more patients, according to senior author Weiping Zou.