Researchers have discovered a molecule produced by skeletal muscle that increases bone mass and strength. This finding has significant implications for treating sarcopenia and osteoporosis, two conditions that often occur together.
Researchers have developed a new optogenetic tool, CyclOp, which produces the second messenger cGMP when exposed to light. This allows for precise control of cellular signals involved in vision, blood pressure regulation and cell death, enabling new studies on signal pathways.
Researchers developed a drug that blocks hyaluronan buildup in pancreatic islets, preventing immune cell infiltration and destruction of insulin-producing cells. The study suggests a potential preventive treatment for type 1 diabetes in humans if initiated before the onset of the disease.
A retrospective follow-up study found that diabetic women are more at risk of cardiovascular events such as heart attacks, ischemic strokes, and congestive heart failure. The risk is highest for women after menopause, with a significant gender-driven 'risk window' for those aged 45 years and over.
A genetic study by University of Queensland researchers found a strong correlation between genes that result in greater height and those that reduce body mass index. The study, published in Nature Genetics, suggests that genetic variation may play a role in creating national differences in disorders such as dementia and heart disease.
A study of nearly 400 participants aged 76+ found that low vitamin D levels accelerate cognitive decline and increase dementia risk. Individuals with dark skin or insufficiency were disproportionately affected.
A new UC San Francisco study reveals that video game warnings fall short in rating tobacco content, exposing adolescents to more tobacco imagery than thought. The researchers found that only 8% of games received tobacco warnings, despite 42% containing actual tobacco content.
Researchers have developed a combination of three antibiotics that can effectively treat methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) infections in test tubes and laboratory mice. The synergistic action of the drugs prevents MRSA from developing resistance, offering potential treatment against this deadly pathogen.
Researchers at Ohio State University propose a new theoretical approach to psychology based on quantum physics, enabling humans to make decisions in uncertain situations. This approach resolves contradictions among previous studies and provides insight into human behavior, including the effect of survey question order.
A study found that cases flagged by 3M as preventable received no worse care than unflagged cases, suggesting that the measure may not accurately capture quality of care. The researchers concluded that either PPR flagged cases are not more preventable or that assessment requires other data collection methods.
Researchers have identified a genetic variant regulating bone mineral density and fracture risk, which could lead to interventions that prevent fractures in older adults. The study found that the engrailed homeobox-1 gene plays a central role in regulating bone density.
Scientists at NASA's Solar Dynamics Observatory (SDO) have captured the rare alignment of the sun, moon, and Earth. During this event, a partial solar eclipse was visible from parts of Africa and Antarctica, providing a unique opportunity to study the effects of these celestial alignments.
The project aims to create an online cache of molecular data to validate current cancer models and make predictions about the disease. This will enable a collaborative approach to cancer treatment and potentially reduce animal testing in research.
A multi-site landmark study found that targeting a blood pressure of 120 millimeters of mercury reduces cardiovascular disease morbidity and event rates. Adults 50 years and older also experienced reduced rates of heart attack, heart failure, stroke, and death compared to the target systolic pressure of 140 mm Hg.
Global health experts highlight critical actions and investments to impact the health and well-being of women, children and adolescents. The new Global Strategy for Women's, Children's and Adolescents' Health aims to prevent deaths and improve the health of millions.
Researchers have identified a 2,000-kilometer-long chain of volcanoes running from the Whitsundays to near Melbourne. The volcanic chain was created over the past 33 million years as Australia moved northwards over a hotspot in the Earth's mantle.
Researchers at the University of Leeds captured images of motor protein dynein in action using electron microscopes. The study revealed a hinge between the motor's arms and its track, allowing flexibility in movement.
Researchers at Brigham Young University have successfully used bacteriophage to decontaminate human MRSA bacteria from surfaces and fabrics, showing promise in treating the deadly superbug. The findings offer hope in combating antibiotic-resistant MRSA, which can cause serious disease and death.
Researchers at Cardiff University have devised a way of increasing the yield of biodiesel by using the waste left over from its production process. By recycling crude glycerol, they can convert it into methanol, which is then used as a starting reactant to create more biodiesel.
A team of researchers at the University of Wisconsin-Madison has discovered a highly efficient catalyst that can produce hydrogen using common elements like phosphorus and sulfur. The new catalyst, which is nearly as efficient as platinum, could make a significant impact on the transition to a hydrogen economy.
PharmaMar presents new data for YONDELIS (trabectedin) in soft tissue sarcoma and solid tumors, including final overall survival analysis and real-world data from a large prospective phase IV study. Additionally, early clinical studies show synergistic activity for PM1183 in combination with paclitaxel or cisplatin.
The American College of Physicians released a guide for appropriate use of peripherally inserted central catheters (PICCs) to address growing concerns over their use in hospitals. The guide highlights the potential for complications like thrombosis and infection, as well as variation in their use among patients.
A University of Eastern Finland study found that long sleep duration is associated with high serum copper concentrations, potentially linking it to pro-oxidative stress and chronic diseases like coronary artery disease. This association remained unchanged even when cardiovascular diseases were accounted for.
A team of researchers at Penn Vet has identified a form of congenital night blindness in dogs, which shares similarities with human forms of the condition. The discovery may lead to the development of gene therapy to correct the dysfunction in both humans and dogs.
A recent study suggests that community-level differences in organ donor designation can be explained by sociodemographic and social capital measures. Neighborhoods with lower social capital, such as high racial segregation and violent crime, tend to have lower organ donor registration rates.
A study by Dr. Raffaella Leoci and colleagues found that a specific ultrasound treatment regime can permanently sterilize male dogs without affecting testosterone levels. The method involves three applications of ultrasound at 1 MHz, lasting five minutes, and resulted in significant reduction in testicular volume and degeneration.
Researchers developed a new spectroscopy method, 2D HYSCORE, to capture the solar water-splitting reaction at the heart of photosynthesis. The study successfully resolved the active site geometry of manganese catalase, a simpler metal-containing protein, and gained insight into the mechanism of photosynthesis.
A study suggests that a missing part of the brain, called the vertical occipital fasciculus, may provide a fundamental white matter connection between the visual system's object identification and spatial orientation functions. This 'highway' structure could play a critical role in coordinating information transmission between brain ar...
Protected areas in Indonesia have preserved 14,000 hectares of mangrove habitat between 2000 and 2010, avoiding 28% of total mangrove loss. This conservation effort has reduced carbon dioxide emissions by approximately 13 million metric tons annually.
Cancer patients who receive chemotherapy treatment for a sustained period have heightened levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS), which correlates with drug resistance. The study proposes a measure of relative ROS levels under normal conditions to help determine if patients are becoming resistant to cancer drugs.
The National Science Foundation (NSF) has invested $20 million in new fundamental research to transform critical infrastructure and improve resilience. This initiative aims to develop a better understanding of interdependencies and their impacts on infrastructure systems, enabling them to perform sustainably and securely.
A multidisciplinary team is designing a mathematical model for autophagy in lung cancer to develop novel cancer treatment strategies. The model will be used to systematically evaluate therapeutic strategies and identify the most promising ones, which can then be evaluated experimentally.
The grant will support the Leadership Executive Academic Development (LEAD) curriculum, which focuses on communications, ethics, cultural competency, and patient safety. All Children's Hospital is the first recipient of this national grant from the Hearst Foundations.
A study published in JAMA Internal Medicine found that Medicare's readmission penalties disproportionately affect hospitals serving disadvantaged communities. By adjusting for more comprehensive patient characteristics, the gap in readmission rates between best- and worst-performing hospitals is nearly halved. The researchers propose a...
A UTHealth researcher has received a $544,329 CDC grant to develop region-specific educational materials and implement outreach on Chagas disease in South Texas. Approximately 20-30% of infected persons will enter the chronic phase, which can manifest as heart disease or gastrointestinal issues.
Researchers used ex-vivo lung perfusion (EVLP) to recondition poorly functioning lungs, removing donor white blood cells and reducing the risk of acute rejection. This technique can increase access to transplantation and shorten waiting list times.
A multidisciplinary team at Lehigh University will develop a comprehensive framework to assess interdependent infrastructure system resilience for extreme events under uncertainty. The goal is to mitigate the consequences of disasters and rapidly restore normal life in communities.
A new study reveals a direct relationship between Alzheimer's disease and brain cholesterol levels. Increasing the enzyme CYP46A1 may help eliminate excess cholesterol from the brain, correcting amyloid plaques and degenerated tau protein. This discovery opens up a new line of research for Alzheimer's treatment.
Three new studies suggest that activating mGluR2 can prevent relapse to cocaine and nicotine use in rodents, as well as reduce methamphetamine cravings. The studies also found that AZD8529, a selective mGluR2 enhancer, showed promising anti-addiction effects in non-human primate models.
Marc Edwards, a renowned expert on municipal water quality, is studying severe iron and lead corrosion in Flint's water system. The investigation aims to understand the 'perfect storm' of problems affecting residents, including high levels of lead in tap water.
New research from Queen's University found that a strong relationship with a loved one can help manage stress in difficult situations. Physical closeness allows individuals to share the emotional burden more efficiently, regardless of their reported level of closeness.
Georgia Regents University is among 15 institutions receiving federal funding to train the next generation of physician-scientists in obstetrics and gynecology. The program will support junior faculty, residents, and fellows in research, enabling them to focus on research for at least 30 hours weekly.
Researchers have developed a new mixed oxide catalyst that overcomes inhibition issues, allowing for more efficient engines to meet stricter emission regulations. The unique formulation of copper oxide, cobalt oxide, and cerium oxide enables better oxidation activity at low temperatures without precious metals.
Scientists at the University of Groningen have successfully created an electric circuit using a magnetic insulator and spin waves. By leveraging thermal fluctuations in the material, they were able to transmit electric signals through the insulator, opening up new possibilities for energy-efficient electronic devices.
Researchers at the University of Vermont have developed a new method to create an 'electron superhighway' in organic materials, allowing electrons to flow faster and farther. This breakthrough could lead to improved solar cells and flexible electronics with enhanced efficiency.
A new $6 million NIH grant will fund a WE-CAN study examining the success of community-based programs for treating knee osteoarthritis. The study aims to test the effectiveness of weight loss and exercise interventions in real-world settings, building on previous clinical trial results.
Tropical Storm Vamco developed into a depression on September 13, with NASA's RapidScat instrument measuring its surface winds. The storm intensified rapidly and was located near Vietnam by September 14, before dissipating over rugged terrain.
Scientists studied how a more acidic ocean affects the protective shell of the mermaid's wineglass algae. They found that in high carbon dioxide conditions, skeletons contained 32% less calcium carbonate and were 40% less stiff and droopier. This could make them more susceptible to damage from ocean currents and grazing by marine animals.
A study by the University of Queensland found that over half the world's sea turtles have eaten debris, including plastics and other human waste. This poses a significant threat to their survival due to blockages or toxic chemical releases.
Researchers created a plant-human hybrid protein OptoSTIM1 to modulate calcium channels, leading to improved memory in mice. The study showed a nearly twofold increase in fear stimulus response memory compared to non-light-stimulated mice.
The UK10K project analyzed nearly 10,000 individuals to understand the contribution of rare genetic variants to various diseases. The study identified new genetic variants and genes underlying disease risk, increasing the resolution of genetic discoveries.
Researchers at Texas A&M University found that pairing popular vegetables with school entrees, such as burgers and chicken nuggets, can lead to increased vegetable consumption. The study suggests optimizing entrée-vegetable pairings in schools meals could positively impact vegetable intake for students relying on school meals.
A study by Oxford University researchers found that pedaling at high speeds, like professional cyclists, is less efficient for recreational cyclists. The team developed a new equation using cadence to estimate energy consumption on stationary cycle ergometers, providing more accurate results.
A new study by Aarhus University researchers found that plant communities on the Chimborazo volcano in Ecuador have shifted upwards by more than 500 meters over the last two centuries. This dramatic shift is attributed to climate change and human-induced land cultivation, which has reduced precipitation and glacier coverage.
The world has lost 129 million hectares of forest area since 1990, with tropical forests taking the hardest hit. However, there have been positive signs, including a halving of net forest loss from 7.3 to 3.3 million hectares between 2010 and 2015.
A new report led by University of Arizona researchers reveals the Sierra Nevada snowpack was at its lowest level in 500 years in 2015, exacerbating California's ongoing drought. The study uses tree-ring data to compare snowpack levels with temperatures, finding a strong correlation between warmer winters and lower snowpack.
A new study by Malika Ihle and colleagues found that zebra finches choose mates based on stimulation, leading to increased reproductive success. The research suggests that this mate-choice process is essential for the survival of the species, as it maximizes gene perpetuation through successful offspring.
A study published in JAMA Internal Medicine found that women who followed a Mediterranean diet supplemented with extra virgin olive oil had a significantly lower risk of developing breast cancer. The study, which involved over 4,200 women, showed that the Mediterranean diet with olive oil reduced breast cancer risk by 68%.
A study published in JAMA Pediatrics found racial disparities in pain management among children with appendicitis in emergency departments, with black children receiving less pain medication and opioids. The study analyzed data from 2003 to 2010 and suggested that more research is needed to understand why such disparities exist.
A new study reveals that social factors such as insurance status, marital status, and county-level income significantly affect the chances of survival in young patients with acute myelogenous leukemia (AML). The findings highlight the need to address these non-biological patient characteristics to improve health outcomes.
A new study reveals that England has made significant progress in improving its health outcomes compared to other wealthy countries. However, the research also exposes persistent health disparities within English regions, with little change in the gap between the most and least deprived areas over the past 23 years.
A statewide study in Indiana found that fewer than a quarter of men and women with osteoporosis or fragility fracture received treatment between 2005 and 2012. The study also found disparities in treatment rates among different groups, including racial and ethnic minorities and individuals with multiple chronic conditions.
A UC Riverside-led study illustrates how guppies adapt to new environments in less than a year, showing evolution as a contemporary process. Researchers tracked the success of male guppies in making babies and surviving using DNA from their scales.
A new robotic nurse is being developed at the University of Texas at Arlington to assist nurses with daily tasks, such as walking patients and monitoring their safety. The robot aims to improve patient care, reduce workplace injuries, and increase productivity for healthcare providers.
The National Science Foundation awards nearly $40 million to support the development of smart cities, including a new instrument called Array of Things in Chicago. The instrument will enable researchers to rapidly deploy sensors and systems at scale in an urban environment.
A study by Eric Maskin and Michael Kremer finds that globalization has increased income inequality in poor countries by widening the gap between low- and high-skilled workers. Increasing education levels of low-skilled workers is proposed as a solution to address this issue.
Researchers have found a way to mobilize immune cells to attack and destroy malignant tumors by using a cell surface receptor called GITR. This protein can switch immature T-cells from becoming regulatory T-cells to tumor killers called Th9 cells, which produce the cancer-fighting protein interleukin 9.
An international research team has identified a novel gene, EN1, associated with osteoporosis and bone mineral density. The study used extensive genetic data from the UK10K project to uncover a genetic variant near EN1 with the strongest effect on BMD and fracture.
A new project promotes agroforestry in Myanmar's uplands as a sustainable alternative to shifting cultivation, which harms livelihoods and ecosystems. The project aims to reduce the need for chemical fertilizers and pesticides while boosting yields and diversifying income sources.
Researchers found that Asian elephants born during stressful periods produce significantly fewer offspring despite higher reproduction rates at an early age. The decline in reproductive rate accelerates with age, decades later.
A study by Carnegie Mellon University's Simon Initiative shows that MOOCs are ineffective and that interactive approaches improve learning outcomes. Students who completed combined courses with OLI learned 66% on a final exam, compared to 57% for those in MOOC-only courses.
Scientists from KU Leuven discovered that two of three possible climates on rocky exoplanets are potentially habitable. The 'air conditioning system' keeps surface temperatures within the habitable range, despite permanent day and night sides. This finding provides valuable input for future space missions.
A new treatment protocol has been shown to improve outcomes for infants born in withdrawal from drugs, resulting in shorter hospital stays and reduced opioid treatment durations. The protocol, developed by the Ohio Children's Hospital Neonatal Research Consortium, increased adherence rates and improved overall patient care.
Scientists have identified a FOXC1 gene that causes more aggressive cancer in AML patients. When switched on in blood cell tissue, it stunts the development of blood cells and stops them maturing into normal specialized blood cells, leading to faster cancer growth.
Researchers at INRS have developed an optical chip that can generate cross-polarized photon pairs, paving the way for more efficient and low-cost telecommunication networks. This breakthrough technology has the potential to revolutionize optical communication and applications such as signal processing and spectroscopy.
BACE1 and APH1B-y-secretase control axonal guidance by regulating growth cone collapse and restoration. Inhibition of these proteases may have physiologically opposite effects, suggesting cautious combination therapies to mitigate side effects.
Single grandparents caring for grandchildren are at a higher risk of poor physical and mental health compared to single parents. The study found that solo grandparents fare worse in four critical health areas: physical health, mental health, functional limitations, and health behaviors.
Researchers find PCMH costs per physician FTE were $7,691 in Utah and $9,658 in Colorado. Family physicians with high HIV experience are more likely to adhere to antiretroviral therapy protocols. Adequate compensation is critical for practices to sustain medical home services.
The National Science Foundation has invested $10 million in smart service systems that learn from data to center on people through individual feedback and input. These adaptive and individualized interactions create more value.
A 20-year follow-up of the EORTC boost no-boost trial found that young age, high-grade invasive tumor, and ductal carcinoma in situ were associated with increased local recurrence rates. The study showed substantial benefits from academic clinical research, enabling long-term follow-up and analysis.
The new guideline focuses on preventing fractures among frail seniors, highlighting the importance of nutrition, exercise, and medication adherence. It also emphasizes the need for individually tailored interventions to reduce falls and promotes safe living environments.
A study of 350,000 patients with type 2 diabetes found those with poor blood sugar control have a 50% higher risk of being admitted to hospital for dementia compared to those with good control. Improved blood sugar control may prevent many cases of dementia in these patients.
A study by Johns Hopkins Medicine reveals that many obese people are malnourished before weight loss surgery. The research highlights the importance of addressing nutritional deficiencies to reduce surgical complications and improve overall health after the procedure.
A new classification system for gout has been developed to standardize its diagnosis and treatment. The system uses evidence-based criteria and has been validated by comparing it to existing published criteria, outperforming them in performance.
Researchers at RIKEN Brain Science Institute developed a new optical clearing technique called Sca l eS, enabling the creation of transparent brain samples for detailed analysis. The technique has provided new insights into Alzheimer's disease pathology and revealed associations between amyloid beta plaques and microglial cells.
Researchers discovered that the amount of gas produced in small underground chemical explosions can affect seismic wave patterns, particularly low-frequency P waves. This finding may improve the use of these explosions to study nuclear detonations and detect gas releases in explosion.
The National Science Foundation is awarding nearly $12 million to US Ignite to support the development of innovative gigabit application prototypes with significant societal impact. These prototypes will be tested in various US cities and communities, enabling the sharing of gigabit application prototypes across community boundaries.
The International Year of Global Understanding aims to foster smart policies by promoting better understanding of local impacts on the global. Activities include research projects, educational programmes, and information campaigns to translate scientific insight into sustainable lifestyles.
Researchers at UMass Amherst are developing smart energy services that use data from Holyoke Gas & Electric Co.'s smart meters to reduce peak demand, promote local renewable energy and save customers money. The services will also provide real-time notifications for unusual energy usage and suggested conservation tips.
A systematic review and meta-analysis of 11 million patients found that diabetic women are 40% more likely to suffer acute coronary syndromes than diabetic men. The study highlights the need for comprehensive risk control and early diagnosis in female patients with diabetes.
A new study found that viruses flourish in the guts of healthy infants, with diverse viral strains and a dynamic ecosystem of interacting organisms. The researchers discovered viral strains that exclusively kill bacteria, which declines as the babies grow older.
A new review from the University of Cambridge found that larger portions and tableware increase food and drink consumption, with eliminating large portions reducing energy intake by up to 29% among US adults. Reducing portion size is a promising strategy to combat overeating and related health risks.
Wladek Minor is rescuing vital submicroscopic data with a $20,000 grant, making it accessible for scientists and industry. His online search engine simplifies data access, speeding up research and potentially leading to new treatments.
Hispanics struggle with depression, but cultural concerns and stigma hinder seeking care. A new project uses a culturally sensitive comic-book style education tool to overcome barriers and encourage treatment.
The symposium will cover the entire food supply chain, from input companies to consumers, and feature representatives from major food companies, including American Crystal Sugar and General Mills. Sustainability will be a key focus of the event, with panel discussions from industry experts.
A new study by the American Heart Association reveals that black patients and those with low socioeconomic status have shorter life expectancies after a heart attack. Life expectancy gaps are largest among black patients with higher socioeconomic status, highlighting the need for targeted interventions to address these disparities.
A five-year programme will focus on developing miniscule technology to deliver drugs directly to cancer sites, improving chemotherapy effectiveness. The project tackles an important area around drug delivery in pancreatic cancer, which is the fifth most common cause of cancer deaths in the UK.
A new strategy using porous, transplantable hydrogels has experimentally improved bone repair by boosting the survival rate of transplanted stem cells and influencing their cell differentiation. This breakthrough could lead to enhanced regenerative therapies for various tissues and organs.
Emergency services clinicians face a 60% heightened risk of injury and illness when working shifts of 16-24 hours. Prolonged work hours compromise physical strength, mental focus, and alertness, increasing the risk of accidents.
The University of Iowa has received a $10.67 million SPORE grant to research neuroendocrine tumors, which have seen a five-fold increase in incidence over three decades. The grant aims to develop new diagnostic and treatment approaches through analyzing gene expression profiles and identifying important mutations.
A new comprehensive guide, MAGIC, offers a framework for clinicians to pick the right device for each adult patient, reducing complications and improving safety. The guide provides color-coded charts and algorithms to indicate appropriate or inappropriate use of IV devices.
A recent study found that larger and private colleges are more likely to have hookah cafes and lounges nearby, despite smoke-free policies decreasing these chances. The study suggests that economic factors may play a role in the increased odds of hookah establishments near private institutions.
Researchers from Brown University have developed a system for multiplexing terahertz waves, which enables separate streams of data to travel through a single medium. This technology has the potential to support terahertz wireless systems that can deliver data at much higher speeds than current cellular or Wi-Fi networks.
Researchers discovered a potential mechanism for neurodegenerative diseases, suggesting that HSD10 reduces oxidative stress and promotes cell repair in humans. This breakthrough provides a fresh perspective on Alzheimer's disease etiology and could inform novel drug strategies.
Researchers at University of California, Irvine discovered that valproic acid preserves the M-current during seizures, which contributes to neuronal hyperexcitability. This finding points to new drug discovery approaches with fewer side effects.
Researchers found that impairments in mitochondria can deplete cellular energy levels and cause neuronal dysfunction in a model of neurodegenerative disease. The study revealed the energy threshold needed to support synaptic vesicle cycling, highlighting the importance of mitochondrial function in brain cells.
A study published in JAMA Neurology found that people with low vitamin D levels experience rapid cognitive decline over time compared to those with adequate levels. Researchers recommend daily vitamin D supplements for individuals 60-plus due to the association between low vitamin D and faster cognitive decline.
The National Science Foundation has awarded $2.5 million to support research projects developing novel approaches to integrate networked computer systems and physical devices for smart city applications. The projects aim to improve public safety, transportation, and health in cities across the US and globally.
A study found that vitamin D insufficiency was associated with a faster decline in cognitive functions among older adults. The research, published in JAMA Neurology, revealed that African American and Hispanic individuals were more likely to have vitamin D insufficiency or deficiency. Participants with inadequate vitamin D levels exper...
A new study reveals that smokers are up to 3.6 times more likely to lose their teeth, with male smokers being the most affected. Quitting smoking can reduce this risk, although it may take over a decade for ex-smokers to regain the same level of dental health as non-smokers.
Oriol Romero-Isart receives Euro 4,000 award for seminal contributions to quantum physics topics including degenerate gases and nanooptics.