Scientists call for development of advanced tools in bioinformatics, high-resolution imaging and microbial sequencing to understand microbiome function. This would enable tackling medical and environmental challenges with greater agility.
A study by UC San Diego researchers found that populations living at high latitudes with limited sunlight exposure are at a higher risk of developing leukemia due to low vitamin D levels. This epidemic of vitamin D deficiency in winter populations contributes significantly to the burden of leukemia worldwide.
A new study reveals that human activities are the main cause of hypoxia in freshwaters worldwide, with 71 lakes showing significant changes since the mid-19th century. Aquatic rehabilitation programs have failed to restore lake ecosystems to their original well-oxygenated state.
A new study suggests that fish-flavored cat food could be a contributor to feline hyperthyroidism. The researchers found high levels of toxic compounds in cats' blood samples that likely came from their fish-flavored food. Further work is needed to clarify the link between these metabolites and the disease.
A meta-analysis of 14 studies representing nearly 68,000 women found that menopause at age 40 or older was associated with a decreased risk for depression compared to premature menopause. Longer reproductive periods and exposure to endogenous estrogens may contribute to this protective effect.
Researchers from Rice University and the University of Wisconsin-Madison have discovered how two bacterial enzymes, LigE and LigF, work together as a team to break down lignin. This finding could lead to the development of new biofuels processes that convert plant biomass into ethanol and other fuels.
Scientists at ETH Zurich have developed a new type of transparent electrode using 3D print technology, featuring gold or silver nanowalls on a glass surface. This innovation offers higher conductivity and transparency than traditional indium tin oxide electrodes, leading to improved screen quality and touch responsiveness in smartphones.
A study published in Science Translational Medicine found that statins can help reverse the process leading to vascular injury in people with sleep apnea. By reducing inflammation and preserving CD59 on cell surfaces, statins may lower the risk of heart disease in these individuals.
A new clinical trial is evaluating a method to pinpoint and spare healthy lung tissue during lung cancer radiotherapy using advanced image analysis techniques on 4D CT scans. The researchers aim to improve quality of life for patients by sparing functional portions of the lung.
A new device mimics leaf processes to harness solar energy and purify water, offering a clean alternative to conventional methods for addressing global water shortages. The tri-layer membrane uses TiO2 nanoparticles, gold nanoparticles, and anodized aluminum oxide to degrade pollutants in simulated sunlight.
Researchers found pigment cells move and multiply randomly during early development, contradicting previous theories on piebald patterns. The mathematical model can now be used to understand conditions linked to early cell positioning.
A new Cas9 variant, SpCas9-HF1, eliminates unwanted DNA breaks and reduces them to undetectable levels, expanding therapeutic applications. The high-fidelity variant is also important for research applications where off-target effects can confound results.
A new study uses radiocarbon dating to estimate ages, growth rates and reproductive maturity of sea turtles in the wild. The technique provides more accurate estimates than current methods, shedding light on factors influencing endangered sea turtle populations.
The James Webb Space Telescope's Integrated Science Instrument Module passed a test for compatibility with the spacecraft's electromagnetic environment. The test, conducted in an anechoic chamber, aimed to assess the likelihood of interference and ensure the instrument's functionality in space.
A landmark Phase II study by Winship Cancer Institute led to the approval of daratumumab for multiple myeloma patients who have received at least three prior treatments. The drug showed an overall response rate of nearly 30% and demonstrated single-agent activity in a novel monoclonal antibody treatment.
Dr. Christine Grant, NC State University, received the 2015 AAAS Mentor Award for supporting diverse students in chemical engineering. She has mentored hundreds of students, including underrepresented minorities and women, resulting in an increase in their pursuit of Ph.D.'s.
A large prospective observational study found no association between oral contraceptive use and major birth defects. The study included over 880,000 live-born infants and found no increased risk among women who became pregnant while using or after stopping the drug.
A University of Guelph-led study found that red squirrels with lower stress hormones have healthier microbiomes. The researchers tested squirrel microbiomes and analyzed their stress levels, discovering a link between stress and bacterial diversity.
The Walter Reed Army Institute of Research is conducting a Phase 2 clinical trial to evaluate the safety and immunogenicity of an Ebola vaccine regimen in healthy and HIV-infected study volunteers. The trial includes two vaccine candidates and will assess their safety and immune response in volunteers up to 70 years old.
A $3.82 million NIH grant will prepare the Schistosomiasis Vaccine (SchistoShield) for human clinical trials, aiming to reduce infections in millions worldwide. The vaccine has potential impact on up to one billion people and is part of a broader research effort with over $11.5 million in total funding.
A new study led by McGill University and the University of British Columbia found that droughts have a significant impact on cereal crop production, particularly in developed nations. The research analyzed data from 177 countries and found that global production lost to extreme weather events averaged around 9-10%.
Researchers discovered that a human protein called ANP32A helps the virus replicate in human cells. Understanding this mechanism may lead to the development of new antiviral treatments for seasonal flu and pandemics.
Researchers at Stanford University School of Medicine found that trimming the nails of laboratory mice can cure a common and life-threatening skin disease. The technique saved 93% of mice from ulcerative dermatitis, a condition that caused deep ulcers and led to animal euthanasia.
The discovery suggests that Knossos rapidly grew and thrived after the collapse of the socio-political system around 1200 BC. The site was found to have a range of imports from mainland Greece, Cyprus, Egypt, Italy, Sardinia, and the western Mediterranean.
A team of researchers developed a method for guiding replacement cells to diseased vascular segments using nanoparticles, which demonstrated promising results in mice. The fresh cells exert their curative effect in these segments by producing nitric oxide and regulating blood vessel expansion.
Researchers at the University of Florida have discovered a protein that stimulates fat metabolism when stressed, leading to weight gain. The study found betatrophin, a previously touted diabetes treatment, has a new role in regulating body fat.
Research reveals a decrease in inhibitory neurons in brain's memory center CA2 region, associated with social memory deficits and psychiatric disorders like schizophrenia. The findings suggest a possible link between this brain region and the disorder's symptoms, opening up new avenues for research and potential treatments.
A recent study published in PLOS ONE found that statins increased overall survival among late-stage SCLC patients, while other medications showed no benefit. Radiotherapy was also identified as an independent predictor of survival.
Researchers analyzed 43 genes in 172 women with peripartum cardiomyopathy, finding that a genetic mutation in the TTN gene is a common cause. This discovery could inform future research and potentially improve care for affected women.
Recent excavations on Pedro González Island in Panama found dolphin bones at an archaeological site dating back 6,000 years. The absence of dolphin hunting evidence elsewhere in Central America suggests that islanders used innovative methods to catch the marine mammals.
Research from North Carolina State University finds that antibiotics kill off bacteria that alter bile acids, allowing C. diff to germinate and grow in the large intestine. The study sheds light on how antibiotics can promote C. diff infections by disrupting the gut microbiota.
Researchers discovered that blood plasma metabolites and RNA from pigs oscillate on a five-day rhythm, mirroring a corresponding rhythm in tooth enamel. This finding provides insight into biological processes regulating growth and body size, and may be key to understanding species' life history evolution.
Researchers at the University of Sheffield discovered that dasatinib can switch off signals in a protein implicated in Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, leading to a 40% improvement in zebrafish with the condition. The drug has potential as a treatment for slowing muscle deterioration and improving symptoms in patients.
A Drexel University biomedical engineer is exploring the potential of macrophages to grow blood vessels and promote wound healing through a natural process. The goal is to develop a drug delivery strategy that controls macrophage behavior and encourages vascularization by the body's own cells.
The Headwaters Diversion system, built to protect agricultural lands from overflow and Ozark Plateau runoff, has increased peak flow of Mississippi River water and led to increased flooding. Climate scientists predict a continued pattern of extreme rainfall events, exacerbating the issue.
The journal publishes methodology and statistics to design better trials, reducing publication bias. It features a new method to make cancer clinical trials more effective, with the first issue now available on ScienceDirect.
New research shows that factors in the blood from calorie-restricted rats can modify energy-producing mitochondria within insulin-producing cells, protecting them from glucose toxicity. The findings suggest a potential therapeutic target for type 2 diabetes and new interventions against the disease.
A University of Washington study reveals that people's motivation to walk and bike differs significantly based on their income level. Lower- and middle-income residents in densely populated areas are more inclined to walk or bike due to factors such as easy access to destinations, neighborhood attractiveness, and the number of bicycles...
Researchers developed two monitoring indicators for hunting levels of rainforest mammals and birds, adapting fisheries monitoring methods. The study found that hunters may be shifting to smaller species over time and increasing pressure on bird and mammal populations.
A new analysis helps consumers choose energy-efficient appliances to save money and water. Meanwhile, a Himalayan glacial lake threatens to flood a Buddhist holy city due to melting ice and rock barriers. Ocean sounds are also being used to measure stratospheric winds with precise data analysis.
A QUT study published in PLOS ONE found that moderate intensity light exposure earlier in the day is associated with increased body mass index (BMI) in preschool children. The research also discovered that children who received more total light exposure at age 3 had higher BMI 12 months later.
A recent study published in PLOS Biology reveals that TDP-43's normal function involves pathologic aggregation, and mutations tilt the balance toward aggregation. The research discovered a region of the protein that promotes its association with membranes, increasing aggregation propensity.
A new report proposes six broad strategies to raise the effectiveness of the US Endangered Species Act for endangered species recovery, based on a thorough review of scientific literature. The strategies include expanded partnerships and innovation in implementing the law to address pervasive threats.
A new study suggests that as early as 3 years old, toddlers begin to grasp the fundamental difference between a written word and a drawing. The research indicates that this understanding could be an important early indicator for children who may need extra help with reading lessons.
Reducing sugar content in sugar-sweetened drinks by 40% over 5 years could prevent 1.5 million cases of overweight and obesity in the UK and 300,000 cases of diabetes. This reduction would lead to a significant decrease in energy intake and body weight, resulting in a substantial decrease in these health issues.
Astronomers have found five objects with similar properties to the massive stellar system Eta Carinae, including a class of less massive stars. These discoveries were made using archival data from Spitzer and Hubble space telescopes, which identified key characteristics such as dust formation and infrared emission.
Experts argue that cancer screening has never been shown to 'save lives' due to reduced overall mortality rates. Harms associated with screening, such as overdiagnosis and false positives, are significant concerns. The authors call for higher standards of evidence and consideration of harms in cancer screening.
The ORCAS field campaign aims to understand the role of the Southern Ocean in absorbing excess carbon dioxide emitted into the atmosphere. By tracking oxygen and carbon dioxide levels, scientists will gain insights into the ocean's ability to act as a carbon sink.
The University of Texas at Arlington's TxLTAP program provides technical assistance and workforce training in transportation, addressing rural areas with inadequate roads and expertise. The program offers free courses on roadway maintenance, heavy equipment operations, and employee development skills to local governments.
Researchers at CNIO have identified a protein called BPTF that is essential for MYC to cause cancer in mouse models, suggesting it could be a new target for future anti-cancer drugs. Inhibiting BPTF reduces the aggressiveness of tumours.
The new allocation system has boosted transplantation rates for black and Hispanic patients on waiting lists, reducing racial disparities. Younger adults have gained wider access to coveted organs, while older candidates have seen a decline in transplant rates.
Researchers develop novel, low-cost, and ultra-lightweight antireflective surface for microwave radiation based on the structure of moth eyes. The new material achieves almost perfect microwave absorption, ideal for applications in radar absorbing materials and stealth technology.
A study in Health Affairs examines Mexico's life expectancy trends between 2000 and 2010, finding that homicide rates in the second half of the decade caused male life expectancy to stagnate. The authors suggest that approaches like epidemiological surveillance can strengthen policies to reduce violence.
Scientists from Duke University developed a freely available computer program based on the traveling salesman mathematics problem to find the least-repetitive genetic code. This allows synthesizers to easily explore synthetic biomaterials previously unavailable to most researchers.
Researchers found that commensal bacteria in the lungs instruct immune cells to produce IgA, a protein protecting against infections and allergies. The study suggests a link between antibiotic use, dysbiosis, and reduced IgA production, potentially contributing to rising allergy rates.
A study by University of California, Irvine researchers found that inconsistent maternal care can lead to increased risk of risky behaviors, drug seeking, and depression in adolescents and adults. The study suggests that predictable and consistent care is crucial for proper brain development.
Researchers at PPPL developed computer simulations capturing the evolution of an electric current inside fusion plasma without using a central electromagnet. The new method achieves high plasma currents by injecting radio-frequency waves and neutral beams into the plasma, showing promise for spherical tokamaks.
Researchers at INRS develop a new strategy for fabricating atomically controlled carbon nanostructures using molecular self-assembly and chain polymerization. The technique produces network of long-range poly(para-phenylene) (PPP) nanowires on copper surface, displaying quasi one-dimensional dispersion in conductive polymeric nanowires.
A new study published in The Journal of Urology finds that female urologists earn approximately $76,000 less than men annually, despite a significant increase in women entering the field. Despite income disparities, female urologists report high levels of job satisfaction.
A recent study by Dr. Anthony Griffiths reveals that the Ebola virus has a high frequency of spontaneous mutation, which could prove useful for developing therapies. Increasing the mutation rate may make the virus non-viable, providing a potential therapeutic tool against the disease.