A new study published in the Lancet found that metabolic or bariatric surgery was more effective than standard medical treatment for the long-term control of type 2 diabetes in obese patients. Surgery resulted in better glycemic control, lower levels of blood glucose, and reduced need for anti-diabetic medication.
Researchers at UC San Diego School of Medicine identified a new pathway that causes resistance to treatments, and developed a therapeutic drug that targets this pathway. The drug, KG5, inhibits the pathway and increases survival rates among patients with aggressive cancers.
Researchers analyzed 400 fashion models' Instagram accounts to predict popularity, finding high likes and comments were associated with runway success. Height and representation by top agencies also played a significant role in predicting success.
A recent report by SATHI reveals that many Indian doctors are under pressure to perform expensive but unnecessary tests and surgeries to meet financial targets, putting patient safety at risk. The BMJ argues that a radical change is needed in the structure and functioning of the Medical Council of India.
A meta-analysis of 1155 patients with schizophrenia and 911 healthy controls found progressive cortical gray matter loss relative to healthy controls, related to cumulative antipsychotic intake. Second-generation antipsychotics showed a neuroprotective effect, reducing progressive loss.
Biologists at the University of York have found a key plant enzyme that reacts with TNT, generating toxic compounds. The discovery raises hope for a new, sustainable method to remediate explosives-contaminated land and water.
Researchers created the smallest quark-gluon plasma in proton-lead collisions, contradicting previous expectations. This discovery sheds new light on high-energy physics and helps define the conditions needed for quark-gluon plasma existence.
The 2015 Alaska fire season has surpassed 5 million acres burned, ranking No. 3 on record, and currently 768 fires are active across the state. The annual seasonal rain pattern is expected to help diminish fire activity.
The NSF Engineering Research Center for Biorenewable Chemicals at Iowa State University has received a major boost with the addition of three years and $8.48 million in grant funding. The center, known as CBiRC, will now receive a total of 10 years and $35.26 million in support.
A new study from the University of Texas at Dallas reveals that US investors prefer coal over renewable energy, reflecting a different environmental perspective. In contrast, European investors prioritize renewable energy stocks, driven by environmentally conscious attitudes.
A study published in the Journal of Archaeological Science found evidence of mass breeding of raptors in ancient Egypt, including a mummified kestrel that died from force-feeding. The findings suggest that birds were kept and bred for religious purposes, with implications for falconry practices.
Researchers at the Centre for Genomic Regulation have discovered a unique genetic switch that guides stem cells into developing specialized heart muscle. The discovery of the Mel18 protein is expected to reveal underlying causes of heart defects and potentially lead to new methods for controlling stem cells in the laboratory.
Typhoon Kilo, the westernmost tropical cyclone in a four-storm cluster, is moving southwest and has maintained an eye with thick thunderstorms. NASA's Aqua satellite captured an image showing Kilo's symmetry and indicating it will re-intensify over the next few days.
Researchers at Princeton University have detected the long-sought chiral anomaly in a metallic compound of sodium and bismuth. The finding increases conductivity and may lead to more energy-efficient electronic devices, as impurities scatter current-carrying electrons, causing energy loss.
Researchers found that global sea level during the Pliocene warm period was 30-44 feet higher than previously thought, but significantly lower than estimated. The study suggests that the East Antarctic Ice Sheet might be more resilient to climate change than previously assumed.
A new approach uses light to move mirrors, reducing the need for external controls in LIDAR and OCT devices. This could lead to compact and lightweight components suitable for smartphones or small UAVs.
A new study finds that high school students lose an average of 32 minutes of sleep per night following the springtime change to daylight saving time. This leads to increased daytime sleepiness and decreased vigilance, posing a risk to teen drivers. The study suggests that this can further restrict their already limited sleep schedules.
The University of Guam research team used a unique glass tube setup to study fadang tree pollen settling velocity and theoretical distances of wind-borne pollen movement. The results show that fadang pollen can travel over 500 meters laterally before dropping one meter in elevation.
Astronomers have found a similar percentage of newborn stars with specific masses in young clusters of the Andromeda galaxy compared to our own. This study, utilizing Hubble images and citizen scientist contributions, helps interpret distant galaxy light and understand star formation history.
Research from UNH shows that crop rotations can increase soil microbial functions, improving plant growth and soil health. By increasing rotational diversity, farmers can promote agroecosystem sustainability and mitigate threats to food security and environmental quality.
A new policy article suggests that opening up access to power grids, ending fossil-fuel subsidies, and supporting renewable energy technologies can make wind and solar power cheaper. The authors argue that modernizing power grids and ensuring policies related to renewable energy are crucial for reducing emissions.
Researchers discovered that coccoliths can modulate solar light, enhancing photosynthesis in microalgae. The study found that magnetically oriented coccoliths change light scattering, contributing to understanding how these structures control light.
Researchers at VIB discovered that exposure to farm dust reduces the severity of allergic reactions in mice. In humans, a deficiency in the protective protein A20 is found in those who suffer from allergies and asthma. The study paves the way for the development of an asthma vaccine.
A team of researchers has determined the structure of a protein complex involved in DNA damage repair, revealing its mechanism of action and potential as a therapeutic target for inflammatory diseases and cancer. The study's findings may enable the development of new drugs targeting this complex.
Researchers discovered that cell programs controlling normal mammary gland stem cells differ from those regulating cancer stem cells, which arise in a distinct layer of tissue. This finding could lead to new cancer treatments by targeting the specific differences between normal and cancer cells.
Astronomers have developed a new technique to measure distances between stars with far greater precision than existing methods. By analyzing the spectra of identical 'stellar twins', researchers can determine the distance between two stars without relying on models, which are often inaccurate.
Researchers at WashU Medicine developed a new strategy to slow glucose production in the liver, which can lead to more effective drugs for type 2 diabetes. The approach involves inhibiting a protein involved in making glucose, demonstrating potential for treating millions of people affected by the condition.
A new video game called VERITAS aims to improve deception detection skills by training players to identify heuristics and detect deception through questioning. The game, developed by UCSB researcher Norah Dunbar, is designed for law enforcement and intelligence communities.
Researchers explore gene network that guides limb development in mammals, finding it varies little in early stages and more widely later on. This pattern makes it easier for evolution to tweak rather than remodel limb structure.
Research suggests that humor plays a crucial role in attracting romantic partners. Men who can make their partner laugh are more likely to be interested in dating them. On the other hand, studies found no connection between humor and intelligence. The study proposes that shared laughter is a stronger indicator of romantic interest than...
Researchers identified a mutation in Arabidopsis thaliana plants that allows them to break down the toxic and persistent explosive TNT. The MDHAR6-mutant plants exhibit enhanced shoot and root biomass when grown in TNT-treated soil, rendering TNT less toxic.
A study found voriconazole significantly increases risk for skin cancer and death in lung transplant recipients, with a 73% greater risk for skin cancer. Physicians are advised to counsel patients on skin cancer risk and consider patient-specific factors when prescribing the drug.
Researchers at the University of Warwick are developing innovative visualization technology to analyze the effectiveness of climate change adaptation initiatives worldwide. They will use big and small data to better understand complex social systems and identify successful interventions.
Researchers at Pohang University of Science and Technology have made significant advancements in organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs) for solid-state lighting. The team developed flexible electrodes using graphene, conducting polymers, and silver nanowires, which demonstrated good electrical, optical, and mechanical performance.
A Caltech team has successfully created synthetic structures made of both protein and DNA, opening up numerous applications. The hybrid material combines the versatility of proteins and the programmability of DNA, enabling new possibilities for medical treatments and industrial applications.
A study published in AIDS and Behavior found that the D.C. needle exchange program prevented 70% of newly diagnosed HIV cases and saved an estimated $44 million over two years by reducing the need for costly treatment. The program also provided access to health services, including HIV testing and addiction treatment.
NASA's Aqua satellite captured an image of Hurricane Ignacio with a re-developed eye and thick thunderstorms. The storm is moving northwest towards the north on Friday, with maximum sustained winds near 75 mph.
Researchers at the University of Chicago have discovered a new type of glass by studying the properties of microscopic animals, including tardigrades. The team found that these creatures can create glassy molecules under extreme conditions, leading to potential breakthroughs in electronic devices and material science.
A new study reveals how immune cells, such as neutrophils and T cells, coordinate their efforts to fight infections. By understanding this teamwork, scientists hope to develop new ways to control and improve the body's response to illnesses like multiple sclerosis and lupus.
Researchers found that ancient Maya activity contributed to environmental decline and continues to influence today's conditions. They identified six stratigraphic markers indicating large-scale change in climate, vegetation, hydrology, and lithosphere.
Researchers found that two common antibiotic-resistant bacteria coexist peacefully in the gut, occupying distinct niches that satisfy their metabolic needs. Fecal transplants from healthy donors effectively cleared one pathogen, but not the other, highlighting potential for targeted therapies to eradicate specific superbugs.
A chimpanzee at the Royal Burgers' Zoo in the Netherlands deliberately used a stick as a weapon to bring down an aerial drone. This incident highlights the apes' ability to plan ahead and utilize tools in innovative ways, even without explicit training.
Researchers discovered rare gene variants associated with a severe form of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that affects children under age five. The findings suggest that these genes play important roles in immune function and may be linked to primary immunodeficiency disorders.
A new study published in PLOS Computational Biology found that rodents behave like a self-organizing system when huddling together to regulate their temperature. This allows the group to better adapt to changing temperatures, with individual behaviors improving the ability of the whole group to regulate its temperature.
Researchers from Drexel University used image-tracking technology to study the development of neural stem cells in mice, finding intrinsic differences between anterior and posterior stem cells that could explain how areas of the cortex develop into specialized structures. The discovery was made possible by powerful biological tracking ...
A new study challenges the validity of 'gaydar', a perceived ability to infer sexual orientation from appearance. Researchers find that stereotyping is inaccurate and harmful, limiting opportunities for marginalized groups and promoting prejudice.
Researchers have developed three new rapid tests for diagnosing drug-resistant tuberculosis (TB), which can be completed in as little as a day. The tests were found to be accurate in detecting resistance to most anti-TB drugs, with the molecular techniques showing superior performance.
A new study suggests that lawyers' deep knowledge of law has little impact on civil court cases. Instead, the difference lies in their ability to assist with procedures, navigate relationships, and phrase key phrases. This expertise can lead to better outcomes for those representing themselves.
Researchers at MIT have developed a family of materials that can emit light of precisely controlled colors and respond to external conditions. The materials, made from rare-earth elements and polymers, show promise for detecting chemical and biological compounds, mechanical changes, and thermal conditions.
A study by UC Santa Barbara scientist Alex Simms has found that the Pacific coast of North America is not uplifting as rapidly as previously thought. The researchers recalculated uplift rates for California and other areas, applying a correction for glacio-isostatic adjustment, which affects ocean levels due to past ice sheets.
A recent study investigates multiple phylogenetic diversity metrics and discusses their role in preserving biodiversity. The study highlights the challenges of calculating these metrics due to data availability, but also notes that as more sequence data are generated, accurate calculations will become increasingly routine.
Researchers have found that combining aspirin with immunotherapy can slow cancer growth and unleash the immune system's full power. By stopping the production of PGE2, a molecule that dampens down the immune response, COX inhibitors like aspirin may lift the protective barrier around tumors, making cancer more susceptible to treatment
Researchers at Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona have successfully created a magnetic wormhole connecting two regions of space. This breakthrough technology could lead to more comfortable MRI scans and new medical applications.
A study published in JAMA Oncology found that Vietnam veterans exposed to Agent Orange have a higher prevalence of monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS), a precursor to multiple myeloma. The study suggests an association between Agent Orange exposure and the development of plasma cell disorders.
Research from University of Cambridge found that extra hour of daily screen time in Year 10 is associated with 9.3 fewer GCSE points at age 16, while pupils doing an extra hour of homework and reading performed significantly better.
A 260-million-year-old fossil species, Eunotosaurus africanus, provides crucial information into the origins of turtles. The study reveals that early turtles had a quicker bite than modern ones, with the skull of Eunotosaurus showing diapsid characteristics, challenging the long-held notion of turtles being an ancient reptile lineage.
The company, Newcells Biotech Ltd, will use pioneering technology to create iPSCs for pharmaceutical, biotechnology, and academic customers, offering benefits in testing treatments on cells with specific genetic make-ups.
Researchers found significant gender differences in the severity of repetitive and restricted behaviors in girls with autism compared to boys. The study also identified distinct brain structure differences between boys and girls with autism, particularly in motor regions.
A team of philosophers, religious scholars and psychologists will investigate the connections between virtue, happiness and the meaning of human life through a 28-month grant project. The research aims to understand how virtues like justice and fortitude contribute to deeper human happiness and a sense of purpose.
Researchers at Ohio State University challenge the widely-held theory that democracies are less likely to go to war with each other. Their new technique and model accurately predicted international conflict five and ten years in advance, outperforming existing models. The study highlights the importance of economic trade relationships ...
A study found that repeated exposure to anesthesia during infancy can alter emotional behavior, which persists for at least five months. The research used a rhesus monkey model and found that exposed subjects exhibited anxious behaviors compared to healthy controls.
A team of researchers has identified a new role for the RAB35 protein in cancer development, finding that it stimulates key growth-control pathways and can transform normal cells into cancerous ones. The study suggests that dysregulated membrane trafficking may play an important role in oncogenesis.
A study in the Chocó-Andes of Colombia found that intensive farming practices lead to a loss of more than 650 million years of evolutionary history in bird species. Land-sparing approaches, which protect larger blocks of natural habitat, are recommended as a more effective way to preserve biodiversity.
A series of parenting classes, Family Foundations, has been shown to reduce parental stress, depression, and anxiety, while improving parenting quality and long-term child outcomes. Participation in the program was linked to more optimal birth weight and shorter hospital stays for mothers at risk.
A study published in PLOS Computational Biology suggests that the brain's prioritization of scenic categories may not be as complex as previously thought. Researchers found that people tend to make the easiest distinctions first, rather than following a predetermined hierarchy.
Researchers found a strong link between prenatal exposure to the Ukrainian Famine of 1932-33 and an increased risk of type 2 diabetes in adulthood. The study, which included over 43,000 cases of type 2 diabetes, suggests that early gestation is a critical period for the development of long-term health outcomes.
Among 51 military service members who experienced severe acute kidney injury, 88% were due to blasts or projectiles, and 22% died within 60 days. Most survivors regained normal kidney function, but some developed chronic kidney disease or proteinuria, highlighting the need for long-term monitoring.
Scientists analyzed UK fisheries survey logbooks from the 1930s to 1950s, finding that cod diet and populations were affected by environmental conditions. The study contributes to understanding climate change and variability, providing insights into fish stocks and the environment over the past century.
Researchers created a new system called 'Fab Forms' that automatically generates visual models for users to modify. The system uses a wide range of values to calculate geometries and store results, allowing users to test designs in real time.
Researchers from the University of Leicester found that trees increase turbulence and reduce road traffic emissions by 7%, improving air quality for pedestrians. This study highlights the importance of urban planning decisions incorporating trees to benefit both public health and environment.
Researchers have found that two bile acids, ursodeoxycholic acid and tauroursodeoxycholic acid, can slow the progression of prion disease when given early in the disease process. These compounds bind to proteins causing disease and prevent them from spreading.
The University of Southampton has been awarded a £3m grant to bring together top researchers to explore new nanotechnology applications for enhanced safety at sea, on land and in the air. The project will support over 50 PhD students in interdisciplinary research projects, providing training and building technical capacity.
A Penn study identified immunostimulatory defective viral genomes as a key player in eliciting an immune response against RSV. In human and mouse models, the presence of DVGs was correlated with improved immune function and reduced disease severity.
Researchers found that relative amounts of predator and prey biomass are predicted by a simple mathematical function called a power scaling law. This means that even in diverse ecosystems, from oceans to savannas, there are always fewer top predators than expected in resource-rich environments.
A new study by UC Santa Barbara researchers predicts that climate change will cause significant reshuffling of marine biodiversity, with warming oceans leading to the relocation of nearly 13,000 species. This redistribution is expected to increase biodiversity in many areas but also lead to extinctions and homogenization of communities.
Researchers at Joslin Diabetes Center found that certain gut bacteria strains are associated with insulin resistance and metabolic syndrome in mice models. The team identified three common mouse strains with different microbiota populations, which were affected by diet and genetic background.
A new study reveals that the ratio of predator-to-prey biomass decreases as prey biomass increases in diverse ecosystems, including grasslands, forests, lakes, and oceans. The study analyzed tens of thousands of populations across 2,260 ecosystems globally, finding a consistent pattern of biomass scaling.
Scientists from Karolinska Institutet have identified 32 genes that are switched on within two days of fertilization, marking a significant breakthrough in understanding early embryonic development. The study's findings also reveal the importance of 'junk DNA' in regulating gene expression.
Researchers at Scripps Research Institute have received a nearly $4.5 million grant with the possibility of up to $10 million to complete preclinical studies on a new anti-migraine drug candidate. The compound has shown promising results in treating stress-induced migraine and may be developed into a once-a-day pill.
A study published in Annals of Emergency Medicine found that children with broken bones or joint dislocations in northern Israel received equal pain relief, regardless of their ethnicity. The study, which lasted four years, including an 11-week period of armed conflict, showed that opioid therapy was administered to nearly all children...
Scientists at Karolinska Institutet have discovered that mutations in the KCC2 gene cause severe early infant epilepsy by disrupting chloride ion regulation. This imbalance leads to uncontrolled brain signals, resulting in epilepsy symptoms.
Hurricane Jimena's eyewall is eroding due to decreased rainfall rates observed by NASA's Global Precipitation Measurement (GPM) core satellite. The storm weakened from a Category 4 to an estimated 110 mph maximum sustained winds, with hazardous surf expected along east-facing shores of the main Hawaiian Islands.
Exposure to bacteria particles and farm dust blunts inflammatory immune responses in children, protecting them from allergies. The protective effect is linked to the anti-inflammatory enzyme A20, which squashes pro-inflammatory molecule generation in lung epithelial cells.
A University of Miami research team proposes a four-component model of cognitive flexibility, which helps understand autism spectrum disorder and other behavioral/neurological disorders. The study may inform the development of new interventions to improve cognitive flexibility skills in individuals with autism.
High levels of saturated fat in the blood can lead to monocytes migrating into tissues, exacerbating inflammation and tissue damage. This research suggests that maintaining high concentrations of saturated fats may worsen cardiovascular disease outcomes.
A new study published in PLOS Computational Biology suggests that our brains don't follow a predetermined priority order when categorizing scenery. Instead, they make the easiest judgments first, which can be overridden by manipulating the difficulty level of the task.
Tropical Storm Kevin strengthened due to rapidly increasing surface winds observed by NASA's RapidScat, now at maximum sustained speeds of near 40 mph. Forecasters expect minimal change in strength over the next day or so.
Despite decades of economic isolation, Iranian scientists have made remarkable achievements through ingenuity and collaboration. New projects, such as the Iranian National Observatory, aim to reclaim the country's past astronomical glory and tackle pressing environmental issues like Lake Urmia's rapid decline.
The five-year grant aims to create prototype nanomaterials with designed functional properties through the assembly of atomic planes from various bulk crystals. Researchers led by Sir Andre Geim will explore flexible optoelectronics, energy harvesting, gas separation and water desalination applications.
Tropical Storm Fred is being affected by strong upper-level westerly winds, which are pushing the highest thunderstorms southeast of the storm's center. The cyclone consists of a vigorous swirl of low clouds and has maximum sustained winds near 40 mph.
A University of Iowa study reveals that disabling a critical biological checkpoint, Mitochondrial Pyruvate Carrier (MPC), reduces blood sugar levels in mouse models of type 2 diabetes. The research suggests that inhibiting MPC activity could be a new target for drugs to treat diabetes.
Researchers found a consistent pattern that in crowded settings, prey reproduce less, leading to fewer predators. This discovery suggests a new law of nature governing ecosystems globally.
A new study found that acupuncture significantly reduced hot flash frequency and severity in breast cancer survivors, while also inducing a stronger placebo effect than oral medications. The treatment showed sustained benefits even after the eight-week treatment period ended.
Researchers discovered a network of transporters involved in controlling hormone ABA transport to seed embryos, ensuring optimal germination timing. This knowledge can be integrated into breeding programs to prevent premature germination and reduce economic losses.
The study identifies the exact composition of sea snake venom, making the development of synthetic antivenoms more realistic. This could lead to a future production of synthetic antivenoms for as little as $10-100, potentially saving millions of lives.