A phase III trial found that MEK inhibition with selumetinib plus docetaxel did not improve progression-free or overall survival in KRAS-mutant non-small-cell lung cancer patients. The study concluded that there is a desperate need for new treatments for this subset of NSCLC patients.
Researchers found asymmetrical power encourages extortionate behavior in a model and experimental setup, with subordinates better off playing along. Extortionists succeed only if they maintain a well-measured degree of friendliness.
Researchers at Imperial College London have discovered a feedback mechanism that protects photosystem II from damage caused by light and oxygen. This new regulatory mechanism involves the release of bicarbonate, which slows down water-splitting reactions and prevents enzyme damage.
Scientists at the University of California - San Diego designed a device that harnesses light to manipulate its mechanical properties. The device oscillates indefinitely using energy absorbed from light, enabling new applications in GPS, computers, and other devices.
A Cornell-led study finds that the American Southwest is at risk of megadroughts due to climate change, but reducing emissions can significantly lower this risk. The study suggests that even a moderate warming of 2 degrees Celsius could lead to a 20-50% chance of a megadrought.
Researchers developed a method to generate primordial germ cell 'lookalike' cells, enabling the study of early stages of specification and regulation of developmental timings. This breakthrough opens up new avenues for understanding transgenerational epigenetic inheritance in humans.
Researchers at Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute found that a key signaling protein helps suppress inflammation and scarring in the liver. The study suggests that p62, which is usually absent from cells that initiate inflammatory signals, plays a crucial role in preventing liver cancer progression.
A new brain-scanning study found that engaging a specific part of the brain during mental math exercises is connected with better emotional health. The study suggests that this ability may reflect the brain's capacity to regulate emotions like fear and anger, and could inform new brain training strategies.
Researchers reconstruct climate and oceanographic conditions in the westernmost Mediterranean Sea, revealing hot and dry Medieval Climatic Anomaly and cooler Little Ice Age conditions. Human impact also detected in temperature increase, aridification, and soil erosion.
Researchers develop novel technique that combines fluorescent dyes and human skin cells to analyze toxic chemicals. The method provides high accuracy and could reduce the use of laboratory animals in biomedical research.
A study by the American Society for Horticultural Science found that gardening significantly improves physical and cognitive functions in older women. Participants showed reduced waist circumference, improved aerobic endurance, and enhanced hand dexterity. In contrast, those who did not garden experienced increased depression symptoms.
A study by Lund University researcher Pontus Nordenfelt reveals how cells move using integrins, actin, and an adaptor protein. The technique enables measuring mechanical force acting on integrins, which could lead to targeted drugs to strengthen the immune system against infections.
Rice University scientists are building a tool to detect and quantify genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in the environment. The technology uses light transmission spectrometry to identify DNA or proteins from engineered crops and animals, which can have unintended consequences on ecosystems.
Forty percent of people in Great Britain express concerns about talking through symptoms with GP receptionists, hindering GP visits. Women and those from lower socio-economic backgrounds are more likely to report these barriers. Cancer Research UK emphasizes the need for better training of front desk staff and addressing the GP shortag...
A new study reveals the existence of a non-proliferative signaling center in tooth development, which drives epithelial invagination and instructs neighboring cells to proliferate. The initiation knot is identified as a critical regulator of tooth morphogenesis and size determination.
Researchers at Columbia University Irving Medical Center have identified stem cells in the temporomandibular joint that can generate cartilage and bone. The discovery suggests a potential new approach to repairing damaged joints, particularly for patients with TMJ disorders.
Researchers found grafting increases watermelon yield by 2.4-2.6 times compared to nongrafted plants, with higher fruit quality including thicker rind and more soluble solids. The technique appears highly recommendable for Chilean growers despite initial costs.
Researchers identified 23 locations on the human genome linked to vitiligo susceptibility. The study provides a framework for understanding the genetic architecture and biological mechanisms of vitiligo, highlighting relationships with other autoimmune diseases.
UNIST professors Kwanpyo Kim, Jung-Min Kee, and Kyudong Choi have been awarded the 2016 Chung-Am (TJ Park) Science Fellowship for their innovative research on 2D materials, protein post-translational modifications, and fluid dynamics. The fellowship provides funding support to pursue their chosen research topics.
Researchers have developed a new approach to study the gut microbiome, revealing that diabetes patients and healthy individuals have similar bacterial species composition but differing metabolic activity. The study discovered that changes in gut bacteria metabolism can exacerbate type 1 diabetes by affecting vitamin levels.
A new study by researchers at the University of Idaho and Columbia University finds that human-caused climate change has nearly doubled the amount of land burned in western US forest fires over the past three decades. The study estimates that human-caused climate change caused an additional 16,000 square miles of western forest lands t...
Researchers at Clemson University are exploring unconventional methods of growing peaches organically using paper bags, which may improve yield and reduce reliance on pesticides. The project aims to provide an innovative strategy for organic peach growers in the southeastern US, increasing productivity and economic returns.
A new treatment harnesses the immune system to shrink tumors in bladder cancer patients that cannot take the most effective chemotherapy. In a clinical trial, injections of pembrolizumab reduced tumor size by at least one third in 24% of patients, with six% experiencing complete responses.
Researchers at the University of Edinburgh have identified Notch 3 as a key driver of bile duct cancer. The molecule triggers a pathway that drives cells in tumours to reproduce uncontrollably, offering potential for new treatments.
Scientists have discovered a qualitatively new state of a superconducting artificial atom dressed with virtual photons, resolving a forty-year-old problem in atomic physics. The discovery provides a platform to investigate light-matter interaction at a fundamental level and may contribute to the development of quantum technologies.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine discovered a region in the mosquito brain mixing tastes and smells to create unique flavors. The finding advances the possibility of identifying a repellent odorant that makes human flavor unappealing to mosquitoes, reducing malaria transmission.
A new study found that Sutherlandia, a commonly used African botanical supplement, can reduce the effectiveness of isoniazid, a widely used anti-tuberculosis drug. This could lead to active tuberculosis and potentially drug-resistant forms in patients taking both supplements.
A 13-year study found that nearly doubling ICU ventilation use among advanced-dementia patients did little to improve outcomes, raising concerns about late-life suffering and unnecessary care costs.
A study by Wortman et al. recommends using perlite mixed with coco coir or vermiculite and synthetic fertilizer to maximize strawberry yield in vertical, hydroponic systems. The results showed that cultivars like Florida Radiance, Monterey, Evie 2, Portola, and Seascape were among the highest-yielding in at least one site-year.
A new study by Yale University researchers found that the initiation of violent raids among the Nyangatom nomadic tribal group depends on the presence of leaders who have participated in many raids and hold central positions in their social network. Non-leaders, however, had a bigger impact on raid participation due to their friendships.
A new study suggests that combining an experimental PARP inhibitor with an epigenetic drug can strengthen treatment effectiveness against breast cancer cells without BRCA mutations, as well as leukemia cells. The combination therapy resulted in a strong antitumor response and halted tumor growth.
Researchers at the University of Melbourne develop a novel approach to assemble nano-objects into complex architectures using polyphenol-coated building blocks. The technique enables the creation of 3D superstructures with enhanced chemical diversity and structural flexibility.
A pooled analysis of 16 prospective multicenter trials found financial difficulties associated with a 35% greater risk of worse global quality-of-life response and a 20% increase in risk of death. Financial burden was present in 26% of patients at baseline, and worsening financial problems during treatment increased mortality risk.
A report by Brain Tumour Research reveals that brain tumours are the biggest killer of children and young adults, with only £4 million spent on research per death. The charity is campaigning for increased funding to advance treatments and find a cure.
Researchers developed a free web-based app to estimate OncotypeDX test results for early-stage breast cancer patients. The app achieved high accuracy in predicting recurrence risk, suggesting it could reduce the need for costly molecular tests.
Researchers investigate whether reducing sodium intake can lower inflammation and oxidative stress, key factors in cardiovascular disease. The study aims to connect the dots between salt consumption and cardiovascular risks.
According to a report by the IEA's TIMSS & PIRLS International Study Center at Boston College, more than one-third of countries have strengthened teacher admission criteria. Digital devices are also being integrated into mathematics and science lessons, with most countries reporting guidelines for technology integration.
Researchers at the University of Nottingham have discovered a protein that plays a role in the aging process, offering new hope for tackling age-related decline and neurodegenerative conditions. The protein, carbonic anhydrase, was found to be more active in middle-aged brains and reduced the life span of nematode worms.
The phase III KEYNOTE-024 trial found pembrolizumab significantly improved progression-free survival by approximately four months compared to chemotherapy, with 80% of patients alive at six months on pembrolizumab. The treatment was also associated with a higher overall response rate and lower adverse events.
The CheckMate 026 trial found that nivolumab did not improve progression-free survival over chemotherapy in patients with PD-L1 positive tumours. However, combination immunotherapies are being investigated to potentially increase the proportion of patients who benefit from treatment.
Nintedanib significantly improves median progression-free survival compared to placebo, with disease control improved by 26% compared to 11% in the placebo group. However, overall survival did not differ between the two groups.
The OAK study found a 27% improvement in overall survival for patients treated with atezolizumab compared to docetaxel, regardless of PD-L1 expression levels. This benefit was seen across different tumor histologies and even among patients with no PD-L1 expression.
Harvard researchers have developed a new technique to produce tunable nanofibers, which could lead to stronger, more durable bulletproof vests and more robust cellular scaffolding for tissue repair. The method uses immersion Rotary Jet-Spinning (iRJS) to create fibers with controlled diameter and morphology.
In the ASCEND-5 study, ceritinib significantly improved progression-free survival compared to chemotherapy in patients with non-small-cell lung cancer harbouring an ALK rearrangement. The primary endpoint was a median progression-free survival of 5.4 months with ceritinib versus 1.6 months with chemotherapy.
The CheckMate 141 trial found that nivolumab maintained or improved function and reduced symptoms in patients with relapsed metastatic head and neck cancer. In contrast, standard chemotherapy resulted in worse scores. Nivolumab's superior clinical activity also suggests fewer side effects, leading to a better quality of life for patients.
In a phase III trial, nivolumab showed improved patient-reported outcomes, including reduced symptoms and maintained functional capacity, compared to standard chemotherapy. The study found that nivolumab not only prolongs life but also improves quality of life.
A phase III clinical trial found that nivolumab significantly extended life among patients with relapsed head and neck cancer without worsening quality of life. The treatment also showed fewer side effects compared to chemotherapy, with only 13% of patients experiencing serious side-effects.
A new review found potential health benefits of phytoestrogens, including reduced menopausal symptoms and lowered risks of cardiovascular disease. However, the potential negative health effects, such as infertility and increased cancer risks, must be considered, and individual factors like age and gut bacteria may influence outcomes.
Researchers observed a significantly greater objective response rate (55% vs. 29%) in patients who received pembrolizumab as well as chemotherapy, compared to those treated with chemotherapy alone. Participants also experienced an improved progression-free survival (median 13.0 months vs. 8.9 months) in the pembrolizumab arm.
The ASCEND-5 study showed ceritinib significantly improved progression-free survival compared to chemotherapy in crizotinib-pre-treated patients with non-small-cell lung cancer harbouring an ALK rearrangement. Ceritinib also increased overall response rate, but did not improve overall survival.
Researchers discovered that trans-kingdom small RNAs can protect crops from fungal pathogens, including the causal agent of 'Cotton Cancer'. The study found that specific sRNAs can be expressed in cotton cultivars to confer resistance to Verticillium wilt disease.
A phase III trial found ipilimumab as adjuvant therapy significantly improved overall survival in patients with high-risk stage III melanoma, reducing relative risk of death by 28% at 5.3 years median follow-up.
NASA-NOAA satellites captured detailed images of Hurricane Matthew's cloud tops, revealing temperatures as low as minus 80 F (-62.2 C), indicating strong storm uplift and potential heavy rain generation.
The ENGOT-OV16/NOVA trial shows niraparib significantly improves progression-free survival in recurrent ovarian cancer patients, with median survival rates up to 21 months. Niraparib also improves secondary endpoints, including time to first subsequent treatment and chemotherapy-free interval.
Two phase II trials, KEYNOTE-052 and CheckMate 275, demonstrate the efficacy of PD-1 blockade with pembrolizumab and nivolumab in treating metastatic bladder cancer. The trials show a median survival benefit for patients with high PD-L1 expression.
A nationwide study in France found that the true burden of head and neck cancer is significantly higher than previously estimated. The EPICORL study revealed a five-year survival rate of 34% and a high risk of secondary primary cancers, with distant metastases at diagnosis associated with a six-fold increase in mortality.
The MONALEESA2 study shows a significant improvement in progression-free survival for postmenopausal women with hormone receptor-positive advanced breast cancer when treated with ribociclib plus letrozole. The combination also resulted in higher objective response rates and improved clinical benefits.
By 2025, up to 12 million children may develop impaired glucose tolerance, while 4 million will be diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. The study forecasts a sharp increase in obesity-related conditions among children, sparking calls for governments to reduce childhood obesity.
Researchers found that fulvestrant significantly increases progression-free survival in hormone-receptor-positive advanced breast cancer patients, especially those with lower-volume disease. The treatment also showed similar health-related quality of life compared to anastrozole and was well-tolerated.
A phase I study of BAY 1163877 identified patients who will respond to the pan-FGFR inhibitor based on tumor mRNA expression, with notable activity seen in bladder cancer and adenoid cystic carcinoma. The drug was well-tolerated, revealing a toxicity profile better than other FGFR inhibitors under development.