Research found that depleting the microbiome with antibiotics can reduce neutrophil activity in sickle cell disease, preventing acute crises and reducing organ damage. The study also suggests antibiotics may help treat septic shock by eliminating pro-inflammatory neutrophils.
Astronomers at Columbia University provide evidence of a pair of supermassive black holes converging towards a collision. They predict the smashup will occur in 100,000 years, offering insights into black hole growth and space-time vibrations.
A study of 100 multiple myeloma patients found that nearly half tapped into their savings and 17% delayed treatment due to high costs. The rising cost of novel therapeutics has led to financial toxicity, affecting patient wellbeing and potentially contributing to increased mortality.
A new catalyst developed by Michigan Technological University researchers has improved the sensitivity of the PSA test for prostate cancer detection. The palladium-iridium catalyst is 110 times more sensitive than traditional peroxidase-based tests, reducing false negatives and potentially delaying treatment.
The study found regions with high multi-species genetic diversity could be included in marine reserve design to help species adapt to climate change. Understanding patterns within species is also key to understanding how species form and evolve.
Researchers discovered that a stress-coping hormone boosts amyloid beta production, leading to brain degeneration and Alzheimer's disease. The study strengthens the idea of a link between stress and Alzheimer's disease.
The influence of citizen science is growing, with some states actively encouraging local residents' participation in environmental monitoring. However, not all states share this enthusiasm, with laws limiting or prohibiting citizen scientists from collecting data near agricultural sites.
Researchers at U-M Water Center will measure green infrastructure effectiveness in managing stormwater overflows and reducing phosphorus in the Detroit River. The project aims to fill knowledge gaps on the river's contribution to Lake Erie nutrient loading, enabling policy options to be developed.
A new study finds that as climate warms, many plants face uphill struggle for survival due to competition from unknown species. Alpine plants perform poorly if new competitors move in, but migrate and adapt well when moving into new communities.
Researchers developed a new method using gold nanoparticles to enhance mammogram imaging, improving the detection of early signs of breast cancer. The technique boosts contrast and makes microcalcifications brighter on X-rays, potentially leading to more reliable diagnosis.
A recent study revealed that the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) integrates information about a suspect's blameworthiness and harm to others, enabling humans to decide on appropriate punishment levels. The DLPFC is specialized for integrating multiple streams of information to select responses.
A simple blood test can detect early markers of reinvigorated T cells and track immune responses in metastatic melanoma patients after initial treatment with pembrolizumab. The study found increased levels of proteins characteristic of reinvigoration in CD8+ T cells, suggesting a potential biomarker to predict patient response.
A research team led by Dr. Saumya Das will investigate microRNA-30d as a potential biomarker to predict patient outcomes in heart disease. They aim to use microRNA-based tests to identify patients at risk of complications and intervene with medications or implantable devices.
Research shows high consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages is associated with lower intakes of healthy foods like fruits, vegetables, and yoghurt. In contrast, tea and juice consumption is linked to higher intakes of these nutritious foods.
A University of Adelaide-led reanalysis of Study 329 found that paroxetine was no more effective at relieving depression symptoms than a placebo, linked to 11 suicidal or self-harming behaviours
Researchers aim to develop a non-destructive method to measure water content in solar PV cells using spectral imaging. The goal is to remove uncertainty on the modules' long-term reliability, crucial for making solar energy competitive with fossil fuels.
Research finds child labor stubbornly persists in developing countries due to unequal access to education and income inequality. The QUT study suggests that targeting schooling costs for the poor and improving public health infrastructure could help eliminate child labor.
Consolidation of small populations and protected areas are key to saving the critically endangered species, researchers say. The study provides vital data to support a final attempt to prevent extinction, with priority forest protection zones identified as irreplaceable.
The Ecological Society of America will create a new network for 21st century STEM professionals in environmental biology with an innovative mindset. The project aims to prepare students for rapidly evolving career tracks and addresses NSF's goal of building the professional STEM workforce for tomorrow.
Researchers at Brown University are conducting a five-year study on mindfulness and patient treatment adherence, funded by a $4.7 million NIH grant. The study aims to determine whether mindfulness interventions can influence self-regulation related to medical regimen adherence, with the goal of improving health outcomes.
A new study by Duke University finds that China's giant panda conservation measures also protect 70% of forest bird, mammal, and amphibian species found in mainland China. The research identifies high-priority areas for conservation to protect endangered native species.
In a study on Latin American butterflies, researchers found that males without scent-producing organs do not co-occur with their closest relatives. This suggests that the loss of male scent pads may be linked to geographic isolation, allowing species to avoid competition for mates.
Virginia Tech has won a $2.5 million grant to establish its own center for earth and environmental nanotechnology infrastructure, part of the National Nanotechnology Coordinated Infrastructure network. The center will focus on characterization, fabrication, and analysis of nanomaterials in soil, water, air, and biological systems.
The Geoscience Career Master's Preparation Survey report assesses students' experiences in geology, geography, and hybrid programs. The study reveals valuable insights into workforce readiness of graduates for government and industry-related positions.
A new study has pinpointed the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) as a critical brain region responsible for coordinating punishment decisions made by judges and juries. The DLPFC integrates information from other parts of the brain to determine punishment, with disruption leading to reduced punishments for morally responsible agents.
The Center for Agriculture and Food Security and Preparedness at the University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture is developing a national training program for produce food safety with a $1.5 million grant from the FDA.
Synthetic biology holds promise for revolutionizing science and medicine, but its safe and stable application is crucial before being applied in real-world settings. Engineers are working on developing safety infrastructure, including kill switches and microbial sensors, to ensure the reliability and predictability of engineered microbes.
A new study by Duke University researchers found that 60% of criminals obtain guns through purchase or trade with family and acquaintances. The study also identified straw purchasers and gun traffickers as key sources of crime guns in Chicago.
A team of researchers has identified a protein that helps heart muscle cells regenerate after a heart attack, improving cardiac function and survival rates in mice and pigs. The protein patch, loaded with Follistatin-like 1, showed remarkable results in animal models, regaining nearly normal function within four to eight weeks.
A study by University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston found that women discharged from rural hospitals had higher readmission rates than urban hospitals. The researchers attributed this to a lack of family support, disease burden, and limited obstetrician availability in rural areas.
Researchers investigated whether rhythmic skills are linked together or separate, finding that beat tapping and rhythm memory are distinct abilities. The study suggests that these skills may track differently with specific language functions.
Researchers found that high uterine artery blood flow resistance in early pregnancy is associated with a 5-fold increased risk of preeclampsia, fetal growth restriction, and stillbirth. Increased cell death and reduced IGF2 expression may be causal factors of abnormal placental development.
The Undiagnosed Diseases Network (UDN) has launched an online patient application portal called the UDN Gateway. The new system streamlines the application process and allows patients to be matched with top diagnostic teams and advanced diagnostic tools, aiming to improve diagnosis and care for those with undiagnosed diseases.
The University of Washington has won a $4.5 million NSF grant to advance nanoscale science, engineering and technology research in the Pacific Northwest. The funding will support the Washington Nanofabrication Facility and the Molecular Analysis Facility, providing critical tools and resources for academic and industrial users.
The Cornell NanoScale Science and Technology Facility will receive $8 million from the National Science Foundation over five years. This grant, combined with a matching commitment from New York state, will provide long-term infrastructure support for ambitious research.
Research finds that spending time in nature enhances the functioning of the body's immune system, providing protections against a range of diseases including depression and cardiovascular disease. The immune system plays a crucial role in every one of these diseases, highlighting the importance of exposure to nature for overall health.
Researchers at Georgia State University develop an oral drug using microparticles and natural herbal molecules to target colon inflammation in ulcerative colitis. The curcumin-loaded microparticles show potential as a scalable drug carrier for efficient clinical treatment of this chronic gastrointestinal disease.
A team of researchers has identified ERManI as a key protein that prevents HIV-1 replication, providing a potential natural defense against the disease. The discovery could lead to the development of new antiretroviral treatments and promote HIV resistance by increasing ERManI levels.
A new analysis suggests that banning microbeads from products is the best way to protect water quality and wildlife. Researchers estimate that 8 trillion microbeads are being emitted into aquatic habitats daily, with toxic effects on animals and ecosystems.
The study found that recognizing opportunities, creating a clear narrative team, and using emotionally impactful photographs are key elements of success. By leveraging cultural entrepreneurship and visuals, environmental movements can gain legitimacy and inspire action among followers.
Researchers at Case Western Reserve University will analyze data from over 5 million solar panels worldwide to identify factors contributing to degradation. By applying an epidemiological approach, they aim to develop more reliable designs and extend the lifespan of solar panels.
A University of Oregon study suggests that charity logos on food products can trigger quick perceptions about an item's healthiness. The research found that consumers associate certain cause logos with healthier options, even if the partnership is not intended to endorse the product's healthiness.
The USA 300 strain of MRSA has decreased in hospital-onset cases, but remains prevalent in the broader community. Current or former drug use was a strong predictor for acquiring this strain of bacteria.
A new method called Phantom Derivative (PhD) has been developed to determine complex structures with limited experimental data. PhD is a competitive approach in protein crystallography, producing results comparable to existing techniques like density-modification and Vive la Difference.
Nanoparticles wrapped in human platelet membranes deliver drugs to targeted sites, increasing therapeutic effects for diseased rats and mice. The platelet-membrane-coated nanoparticles selectively bind to damaged blood vessels and certain pathogens, minimizing the spread of bacteria and enhancing antibiotic efficacy.
Researchers discovered rapamycin prevents Parkinson's disease by boosting cellular clean-up via up-regulation of a protein called TFEB, increasing lysosomal autophagy and mitochondrial biogenesis. This breakthrough challenges current dogma and presents new opportunities for drug discovery.
Researchers Ivona Pandrea and Cristian Apetrei are investigating the relation between accelerated aging characteristics linked to HIV infection and non-AIDS comorbidities. They aim to develop treatments tackling these processes, aiming to improve quality of life for people on HIV medications.
A pioneering ultrasonic device called StarStream has been developed to improve the cleaning of medical instruments using cold water, eliminating biological contamination and bacterial biofilms. The device has shown significant effectiveness in removing complex contaminants such as brain tissue from surgical steel.
Tropical Storm Vamco brought extreme rainfall to central Vietnam and Laos, resulting in flash floods and landslides. The NASA GPM mission measured over 220 mm of rainfall along the storm's path, highlighting the importance of monitoring heavy precipitation events.
A study by Duke University analyzed data from 500 citizen scientists worldwide, who played the same games as researchers use in labs. The results showed that dogs rely on memory over sense of smell to solve problems. The dataset also revealed unique cognitive skills among dogs, including communication and problem-solving abilities.
Researchers at IRB Barcelona have discovered the MAF gene is a reliable predictor of breast cancer bone metastasis. The study, published in JNCI, analyzed over 900 clinical samples and found that MAF-altered tumors are 14 times more likely to develop bone metastasis.
A reanalysis of a 2001 study on antidepressants found that popular drug paroxetine is neither safe nor effective for adolescents with depression. The new results contradict the original research and have important implications for research and practice.
New research suggests that obese patients with type 2 diabetes should be prioritized for obesity surgery, as they often experience remission of diabetes and reduced healthcare costs. The study, based on the Swedish Obese Subjects (SOS) study, found that total healthcare costs were lower in surgery patients who had prediabetes or diabetes.
Researchers have identified the protein marker Bim as a potential predictor for patient response to PD-1 immunotherapy for melanoma. Patients with high levels of Bim and soluble PD-L1 are more likely to respond to treatment, suggesting that this biomarker may help clinicians predict which patients will benefit from PD-1 blockade.
Scientists have discovered that antibacterial soap is ineffective in reducing bacterial contamination when used under 'real life' conditions. The study found that triclosan, the active ingredient in antibacterial soap, has significant effects only after more than nine hours of exposure.
Researchers develop a bioengineered collagen patch loaded with Fstl1 protein to regenerate heart tissue after damage. The treatment restored function and allowed for progressive recovery in animal models.
The study introduces a new Barcoding of Life project, AUSBS, to identify Australian native bees. Four new species were recognized as part of the largest Australian nature discovery project Bush Blitz, using molecular and morphological evidence.
Researchers at Yale University have created a new process for synthesizing an organic compound that inhibits HIV. The approach uses aromatic nitrogen heterocycles to streamline the synthesis, reducing time and increasing efficiency.
Researchers at GW University, Emory University, and Harvard University will investigate the connection between stress-related mental health disorders like PTSD and cardiovascular disease. The project aims to develop new therapeutic advances in treating PTSD and its comorbidity with cardiovascular disease.
A large study found that adhering to healthy dietary patterns such as the Mediterranean diet was associated with a reduced risk of depression. The Alternative Healthy Eating Index-2010 was also linked to a significant reduction in depression risk, although this effect may be explained by similarities with the Mediterranean diet.
Researchers at Linköping University found that domesticated animals grew faster and laid larger eggs when selected for reduced fear of humans. The study used red junglefowl and bred them over five generations to demonstrate the link between tameness and desirable traits.
A CU-Boulder study shows that evening caffeine consumption can delay the internal circadian clock by approximately 40 minutes. The researchers also found that bright light exposure induces even greater phase delays, suggesting a possible ceiling effect on human circadian clocks.
The new repository will help measure the status of biodiversity knowledge in Bolivia and inform conservation efforts. The project brings together over 40 Bolivian scientists with international partners to catalog the country's plants and animals.
A 3-year-old girl with obesity and symptoms of excessive urination and thirst was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, reversing the disease through lifestyle modification and medication, highlighting early screening and diagnosis as key factors in disease management.
Tropical Storm Krovanh has a 'comma shape' with thunderstorms stretching over the northern Marianas Islands. Maximum sustained winds near 55 knots are expected to reach 115 knots on Sept 18 before turning northeast, becoming extra-tropical.
The e-cigarette special issue covers topics such as market trends in U.S. retail, use among young people, and chemical composition of e-cigarettes. Key findings include confusion about e-cigarettes' safety and potential for innovative research.
A new study reveals that competition from previously unknown plant species at lower elevations can be decisive for alpine plants in warmer climates. This finding challenges the assumption that higher temperatures are the primary effect of climate change on alpine species, instead highlighting the importance of competition.
After 10 years of monitoring, a UCSB analysis reveals that MPAs in the Channel Islands network are enhancing ecological communities. Fish species targeted by fishermen have greater density and biomass inside MPAs, while unprotected areas show increases in fished species.
A recent study by Chapman University reveals that men and women differ in their preferences for attractive partners, with wealthier individuals and those with higher education levels having stronger preferences. The study also found that age and income level play a significant role in shaping these preferences.
A recent study published in PLOS ONE found a significant association between energy drink consumption and traumatic brain injury (TBI) in teenagers. Researchers discovered that teens who reported TBI were seven times more likely to consume at least five energy drinks in the past week.
Researchers have identified a specific location in the enhancer that, when cut, leads to increased production of fetal hemoglobin. This breakthrough may pave the way for developing gene editing approaches for treating sickle cell disease and related hemoglobin disorders.
A twin study found that genetic factors contribute significantly to insomnia in adults, with a higher heritability in females (59%) compared to males (38%). This study provides evidence for sex differences in insomnia development and may inform targeted sleep interventions for women.
Research by Vladimir Dinets and Mark Hauber found that two invasive Eurasian cuckoo species are on the verge of invading North America, posing a threat to native bird populations. The cuckoos' sophisticated parasitic behavior, including egg mimicry, may evade defenses developed by Native American birds against cowbirds.
Researchers have found that platinum nanoparticles sitting on cheap metal oxide materials convert carbon monoxide into carbon dioxide. The chemical reactions occur due to the interplay between platinum particles and the iron-oxide surface, making them efficient. This new knowledge can be used to create better catalysts.
Researchers developed coated silica nanoparticles that can deliver calcium-based compounds and antimicrobials into damaged teeth through microscopic holes. The particles overcome previous aggregation issues, showing promise for restorative treatment of sensitive teeth.
New research reveals that smog exposure can cause the formation of free radicals in lung proteins, leading to damage, inflammation, and breathing difficulties. The study, conducted in a controlled environment, suggests that ozone reacts with amino acids in lungs, triggering the creation of highly reactive species.
US fracking operations consume nearly 250 billion gallons of water between 2005 and 2014, which is lower than other energy-related extraction methods. However, in drought-stricken areas, local water shortages could limit future use of hydraulic fracturing.
Researchers found that disrupting brain activity in a specific area can change punishment decisions without affecting blame judgments. This study suggests that the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex integrates information from other parts of the brain to determine punishment and moral responsibility.
The University of Vienna has created a photorealistic online game, called a 'quantum lab', allowing users to virtually access unique instruments and conduct experiments. The virtual laboratory is designed to make modern science accessible to the general public, university students, and high-school students.
Researchers at NC State University isolated possible ovarian cancer biomarkers using a highly sensitive mass spectrometry analysis. The study found that the level of biomarkers associated with ovarian cancer does not simply increase or decrease over the course of the disease, but can rise and fall during different stages.
A new study finds India's monsoonal rainfall is 12% below average due to El Niño and La Niña fluctuations. Asteroids cause fractures up to 25 kilometers below the moon's surface, according to a Geophysical Research Letters study. Scientists will use a community fleet of drones for Earth monitoring
Researchers at UI Health have successfully transplanted stem cells from healthy siblings into adult patients with sickle cell disease, achieving a 92% cure rate and eliminating the need for chemotherapy. The procedure offers a new prospect for adults with the disease, who previously had limited treatment options.
Researchers use large-field scanning electron microscopy to analyze a shrimp fossil from Brazil's Araripe Basin, discovering rare fossilization process and fractal characteristic. The study provides new insights into the formation of ancient fossils.
A new study found that family arrest histories and delinquent friends were the best predictors of heavy drinking or long-term marijuana use among youth offenders. The researchers emphasized the importance of training youths to strengthen impulse control and resist peer pressure as part of drug and alcohol abuse prevention programs.
Tropical Depression 9 developed in the central Atlantic on September 16, 2015, with tropical-storm-force winds detected by NASA's RapidScat instrument. The depression was already affected by wind shear, according to infrared data from NASA's Aqua satellite.
A new UCLA study reveals that Alzheimer's disease consists of three distinct subtypes, each requiring targeted research and potential new treatments. The cortical subtype appears to be fundamentally different from the other two, suggesting different causes and optimal treatment approaches.
A team of UK scientists has created the first three-dimensional picture of a submarine canyon habitat using marine robotics and ship-based measurements. The expedition used unique robot technology to collect data in hard-to-reach areas, leading to a better understanding of biodiversity patterns and processes.
According to a comprehensive report by the American Cancer Society, cancer is the second leading cause of death overall in the US, but it remains the leading cause of death among US Hispanics. Lung cancer is the primary concern, particularly for Hispanic men, who are more likely to die from this disease.
The Healthy Young Men's Study aims to improve HIV care and prevention among Black, Latino, and multiracial gay and bisexual young men. The 5-year study will investigate the use of new technologies and biomedical interventions to prevent new HIV infections in highly impacted communities.
A study of nearly a million tweets found that liberals use more emotionally expressive language, while conservatives talk about religion. The research suggests that online networks can provide valuable data to understand people's psychological characteristics and behavior.
A new study finds that choosing a college major can significantly impact lifetime earnings, with STEM majors resulting in $700,000 to $800,000 higher earnings. In contrast, social science or liberal arts majors with advanced degrees may not see substantial increases in lifetime earnings.
A new hand-held probe using optical coherence tomography (OCT) technology has been found to correlate well with traditional pathologists' diagnoses in a clinical study, enabling reliable real-time guidance for surgeons. The device can identify differences between cancer cells and normal tissue with high sensitivity and specificity.
Researchers found a stress-coping hormone releases a protein fragment called amyloid beta, which clumps together and leads to Alzheimer's disease. The study strengthens the idea of a link between stress and Alzheimer's, providing insight into potential treatment approaches.
Current harmful alcohol use increases risk of various health issues, including cancers and injuries. The study supports health strategies to reduce harm, especially in low-income countries.
A new meta-analysis found that being overweight or obese increases the risk of meningioma by 21% and 54%, respectively. Conversely, high physical activity was associated with a decreased risk of meningioma.
Researchers at Case Western Reserve University and Harvard University are developing a microfactory to produce a formula for joint cartilage. The project aims to identify key cues that steer stem cell behavior towards cartilage production, with the ultimate goal of engineering functional tissue.
Researchers successfully silenced genes in human cells to induce immunity against the parasitic disease caused by E. histolytica, which affects 50 million people worldwide. The study identified key genes involved in managing potassium flow into and out of human cells, paving the way for new drug targets.
Researchers found that concentrated beet juice increases muscle power in patients with heart failure by up to 13% within two hours, benefiting activities of daily living. The study suggests dietary nitrates may be a valuable strategy for improving quality of life in this population.