International researchers at ANU have discovered an enzyme that senses adverse drought and sunlight conditions, enabling plants to respond with beneficial chemical compounds. This breakthrough could lead to the development of next-generation drought-proof crops, crucial for global food security.
Researchers have developed a new device to repair the mitral heart valve without open-heart surgery. The procedure, which uses an image-guided device to deploy artificial cords, simplifies the process and reduces operating room time, resulting in improved safety and outcomes for patients.
A computational design tool developed by Disney Research enables users to create delicate, yet structurally sound, 3D objects with interconnected shapes. The tool helps identify and strengthen weak areas in the designs, making it possible for the general public to create beautiful artifacts that also withstand handling and shipping.
A Queen's University researcher has challenged traditional explanations for the origin of birds' flight. His findings suggest that wings may have initially served signaling or sexual selection purposes rather than flying.
Researchers found that circulating tumor DNA is smaller than healthy DNA in cancer patients, allowing for more accurate detection through a simple blood draw. This advancement could enable earlier detection of solid tumors, potentially saving lives.
A new study published in Frontiers in Human Neuroscience found that cognitive training improves executive function and memory, while aerobic exercise increases global brain flow. The study also showed that both mental and physical exercises produce observable benefits for brain health.
A team of researchers has successfully sequenced the genome of 6,000-year-old Chalcolithic barley grains, revealing genetic similarities with present-day barley grown in the Southern Levant. The study provides new insights into the origins of barley domestication and suggests that it occurred in the Upper Jordan Valley.
Researchers developed molecular probes to detect genes converting mercury into its highly toxic organic form, with a 94% confirmation rate. The technology can help determine the amount of methylmercury in water and sediment, aiding environmental managers and governments in protecting human health.
A recent study published in Diabetologia found that moderate-intensity exercise was as effective as a combination of diet and exercise in improving glucose control for individuals with pre-diabetes. Moderate exercise was shown to provide nearly the same benefit on glucose tolerance as the gold standard of fat and calorie restriction al...
Biochemists at the University of California San Diego develop synthetic membranes that can grow and remodel themselves like living mammalian cells. This breakthrough enables researchers to better understand lipid remodeling and its applications in drug targeting and disease mechanisms.
Researchers found daily meetings between physicians and intensivists, care protocols, and pharmacist presence are associated with increased survival rates among cancer patients in ICUs. These simple processes can reduce mortality by up to 70% and promote cost reduction.
The HPTN 052 study found that antiretroviral therapy (ART) provides durable protection against HIV transmission from infected individuals to their uninfected partners. The trial showed a 93% reduction in HIV transmission when ART was started early, with no observed transmission when viral replication was stably suppressed.
Researchers have made significant breakthroughs in perovskite solar cells by developing a hydrophobic conducting polymer that improves efficiency and stability without additives. The new cells retain high performance over two months in humid conditions, paving the way for commercialization.
Biologists have developed an algorithm predicting protein cluster structure, enabling faster understanding of cellular functions and potential treatments. The new method is up to 100 times faster than previous methods, taking just 15 minutes to run on a personal computer.
Australian researchers use 3-D printing to create a resonant microwave cavity via an aluminum-silicon alloy that boasts superconductivity when cooled below the critical temperature of aluminum. The study explores the superconducting properties of 3-D printed parts and demonstrates the potential for rapid prototyping in various fields.
Researchers discovered 122 genetic regions linked to immune cell infiltration in tumors, which could inform the development of future immunotherapies. The study analyzed a large public genomic database and identified new leads for cancer immunology research.
A research team has demonstrated that energy-filtered transmission electron microscopy (EFTEM) can be used to image individual electron orbits within atoms. This technique allows for penetration down to the subatomic level, opening up new possibilities for the study of atomic structures.
Researchers discovered gut bacteria in the deepest reaches of failing lungs, which was previously thought to be an impossible environment for them. The more severe critical illness, the more gut bugs outnumbered usual lung bacteria.
A Georgia State University study found that losing private health insurance from an employer can lead to increased symptoms of depression and limitations in daily activities among older adults in early retirement. The loss of employment-based insurance was associated with poorer health outcomes, even when retirees sought non-group insu...
The study reveals significant productivity losses due to heat stress, with potential GDP losses of up to $2 trillion by 2030. Climate change exacerbates health risks from disasters like floods, cyclones, and landslides, affecting millions in the Asia Pacific region.
Researchers at Harvard have discovered a whole new class of high-performing organic molecules that can store electricity safely and efficiently in large batteries. These molecules are inspired by vitamin B2 and offer improved stability and solubility compared to previous discoveries.
Researchers at Duke University used fast-changing mouse lemur DNA to paint a picture of Madagascar's forested past. The study suggests that the island was not as tree-covered as previously thought, with grasslands and woodlands dominating the center of the island before human arrival.
Researchers at Institut Pasteur have created a live, genetically attenuated vaccine for Plasmodium that triggers a potent immune response and provides long-term protection against malaria. The vaccine uses a mutated gene that boosts the production of an IL-6 cytokine, resulting in a strong cellular and humoral response.
Researchers discovered that cells from HIV-infected people with suppressed virus harbor defective HIV DNA that can produce HIV-related proteins. This finding may explain persistent immune activation during suppressive treatment and pose a potential barrier to an HIV cure.
A recent study published in JAMA Internal Medicine found that poor African American men have the lowest overall survival rate compared to other demographic groups. The research, which analyzed data from over 3,700 participants, showed a nearly 2.7 times higher risk of death among African American men living below poverty.
A new study published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences analyzed DNA from five different mouse lemur species to understand Madagascar's past. The analysis revealed that the island was once linked by a patchwork of forested areas, enabling mouse lemurs to disperse over tens of thousands of years between different regions.
Researchers propose combining multiple methods to identify cheating athletes, including hemoglobin mass, gene expression changes, ironomics, and blood storage-related biomarkers. These new tools offer a potential solution to detecting autologous blood transfusions.
Researchers harness 3D x-ray imaging technology and computer simulations to understand the effect of stainless steel horseshoes on skeletal stresses in horses. The method was used effectively in a preliminary case study, paving the way for new research directions to minimize foot injuries.
New research suggests that greater fluctuations in 'bad' cholesterol levels may be associated with lower cognitive performance in elderly adults. The study found that participants with the highest LDL cholesterol variability took longer to complete a cognitive test, indicating poorer brain health.
A systematic review of 69 studies found that VA facilities offer similar or superior quality care in some areas, such as mortality rates and preventive services. The study suggests that the VA healthcare system compares favorably with other health care settings.
Researchers found liver is the major site for elimination and recycling of red blood cells, contradicting previous belief that spleen plays a key role. The study identified bone-marrow-derived immune cells as the main recycling cells, which accumulate in the liver and recycle iron.
The HOPE study will build on the ASPIRE trial results, gathering more information on the dapivirine ring's safety and effectiveness in reducing HIV risk. The study aims to understand why the ring works for some women but not others.
Researchers at Delft University of Technology develop a memory that stores information atom by atom using chlorine atoms, reaching a storage density of 500 Terabits per square inch. The innovative method uses a scanning tunneling microscope and offers excellent prospects for stability and scalability.
Researchers at Carnegie Mellon University and EPFL develop a computational design tool that enables designers to fully exploit the unique property of auxetic materials, which can expand uniformly in two dimensions. The tool allows for the creation of complex 3D shapes using flat sheets of plastic or metal.
Tropical Storm Estelle is strengthening in the Eastern Pacific Ocean with NASA satellite imagery showing a developing eye surrounded by powerful thunderstorms. The storm's cloud tops are near minus 80 Celsius, indicating strong convection and potential hurricane formation.
Resistant hypertension patients with sleep apnea are at higher risk of ischemic heart events and congestive heart failure compared to those without resistant hypertension. The study included 470,386 hypertensive individuals and found no significant differences in stroke and premature death risks between the two groups.
Scientists at Saint Louis University are studying an investigational vaccine for yellow fever, a potentially deadly disease spread by the same mosquito that transmits Zika virus. The vaccine aims to provide protection to vulnerable groups who are at increased risk of complications if they receive the current vaccine.
Researchers at Ohio State University have identified a potential gene-based treatment for Candida albicans, which can cause deadly hospital-acquired bloodstream infections. By targeting the CBLB gene, the immune system can be boosted to effectively combat the infection.
Scholars propose five guidelines to prevent disputes over frozen embryos, including clear contract language, requiring a binding agreement, and anticipating potential tragedies. These recommendations aim to provide clarity for the estimated million frozen embryos in the US, reducing uncertainty and shifting terrain of varying state laws.
Researchers at Rice University have developed a new method for uniting light-harvesting photonic nanomaterials with high-efficiency metal catalysts. The 'antenna-reactor' design produces a significant improvement in selectivity, turning a poison into a valuable commodity and offering potential energy savings and improved efficiency.
ZIK B CUBE researchers study the role of internal interfaces in biological tissues formation and function using marine shells like pen shell Pinna nobilis and glass spicules of deep-sea sponge Monorhaphis chuni. The team aims to establish thermodynamic and mechanical models for smart composite materials design.
Researchers created a liver on a chip that accurately replicates the metabolic variations found throughout the organ. The microfluidic device allows for fine control over liver cell metabolism, enabling the study of the effects of toxins and new drugs on the liver.
A study published in the Journal of Bacteriology found that two genes, ArsS and ArsR, play a crucial role in regulating biofilm formation in H. pylori. The researchers created strains with mutations in these genes and observed that they formed thicker and more rapid biofilms.
Astronomers confirm 104 exoplanets outside our solar system using NASA's Kepler spacecraft on its K2 mission. The discoveries include a planetary system with four promising rocky planets orbiting the M dwarf star K2-72.
Researchers found that a non-surgical treatment using patient's own bone marrow stem cells improved symptoms and increased physical activity in patients with angina. The treatment involved injecting a 'catalyst' molecule to stimulate stem cell migration into the bloodstream, followed by re-injection of harvested stem cells.
A new pilot study evaluates an online decision-support tool called the Decision Counseling Program, which increases rates of active surveillance among men with localized, low-risk prostate cancer. Patients who used the tool reported feeling less conflicted about their treatment decisions.
A new study finds that variations in the 16p11.2 genomic region are distinctively linked to specific cognitive domains in individuals with autism spectrum disorder. Differences emerged between deletion and duplication carriers, suggesting a complex association between genetic alterations and brain function.
A genetic mutation in the lysyl oxidase gene has been identified as a cause of thoracic aortic aneurysms and dissections. Researchers have found that this mutation disrupts the structure and strength of the aorta, leading to increased risk of rupture.
The study found that brains with more variability and frequent connections tend to have higher IQs and creativity. This discovery could lead to advancements in artificial intelligence and a better understanding of mental health conditions such as schizophrenia and ADHD.
A new simulation and measurement method for anthropogenic global warming was created by researchers at the University of California San Diego, isolating human activities' contribution to surface waters of the Pacific Ocean. The study's findings show that human-induced warming can be distinguished from natural variability.
Researchers at University of Cambridge identify mechanism behind rapid protein build-up in Alzheimer's disease, finding healthy proteins on fibrils drive self-replication. This discovery may lead to new ways to control plaque formation and slow disease progression.
A new study reveals that children's brains need healthy activation before preschool to develop learning and memory functions. Younger rats showed latent memories that were retained until later life, while older rats formed lasting memories through a critical period in brain development.
A toxic Alzheimer's protein can spread through the brain via the extracellular space, jumping from neuron to neuron. The spread of tau may explain why only one area of the brain is affected in early stages but multiple areas are affected later.
Researchers have detected high levels of KIM-1, a biomarker for kidney injury, as well as arsenic and chromium in children's urine in a region of Mexico with high incidence of chronic kidney disease. The findings suggest that early exposure to environmental toxins may lead to irreversible harm if not addressed.
The VA healthcare system generally delivers safe and effective care similar to other health systems, with some exceptions. However, studies on timeliness, equity, efficiency, and patient-centeredness show mixed results.
A new Northwestern University study shows that infants can discern between categories as early as 9 months old, depending on the names used to describe them. This finding highlights the impact of language on cognitive development, suggesting that naming influences the identification of discrete categories in infants.
Scientists have developed a way to upsize nanostructures into light, flexible 3-D printed materials with unprecedented scalability. The new process creates lightweight, strong and super elastic materials with a 400 percent increase in tensile elasticity over conventional metals and ceramic foams.
Researchers identify LOX gene mutations as cause of thoracic aortic aneurysm and dissection in family study, providing biological mechanism and possible therapeutic targets. The discovery illuminates the genetic basis of a rare disease and may lead to improved diagnosis and treatment for patients with this condition.
Research by Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health sheds light on the relentless spread of HIV in South African communities, particularly among adolescent girls and young women. The studies found that Prevotella bivia and Gardnerella vaginalis bacteria increase vulnerability to HIV through inflammation and pH imbalance.
Researchers identify Cloche, a bHLH-PAS transcription factor, as the key gene controlling blood vessel and blood cell development in embryos. The discovery, made after 20 years of searching, has significant implications for regenerative medicine and personalized stem cell therapy.