A new methodology developed at Rice and Rutgers universities helps scientists understand how biochemical networks control biological responses. The approach predicted novel interactions in bacteria that cause tuberculosis, revealing a potential mechanism for the disease's survival.
Gynaecologists propose permitting small surgical 'nicks' or minimalist procedures that change the appearance of young women's external genitalia without harming them. This compromise approach aims to uphold cultural traditions while safeguarding girls' and women's health and wellbeing. However, some experts disagree, arguing that such ...
A randomized controlled trial found that losing just 5% of body weight significantly improves health outcomes, including insulin sensitivity and reduced risk factors for metabolic diseases. Additional weight loss further improves health benefits, but the study shows that even a small amount of weight loss has important health benefits.
A fully sequenced seagrass genome reveals insights into marine ecosystem adaptation to climate warming and salt tolerance. The study provides a valuable resource for advancing research on carbon sequestration and plant breeding.
A University of Leicester study finds that GPs and hypertension detection are associated with lower premature mortality in England. In less deprived practices, continuity of care was also linked to lower mortality rates.
Researchers developed a new model to estimate male lion mortality, providing insights into human impact on populations. The model can be applied to various species facing local extinction, enabling data-driven conservation strategies.
Researchers tracked over 300 individual Sand Tiger sharks and found complex social networks with fission-fusion behavior, similar to mammals. The study sheds light on shark interactions in the open ocean and has implications for conservation efforts.
Researchers at Purdue University have discovered a nearly universal scaling relationship between fracture stiffness and fluid flow, allowing for rapid and remote evaluation of fractures. This breakthrough can predict flow paths, evaluate hydraulic integrity, and monitor changes in fluid flow over time.
Scientists discovered that a wild plant from Bolivia is almost identical to the cultivated peanut species, dating back over 10,000 years. The hybridization of two wild species led to the formation of today's crop plant, with the new genome sequences providing access to 96% of all peanut genes.
Global experts celebrate a major public health achievement with the introduction of MenAfriVac®, a vaccine designed for Africa that has nearly eliminated serogroup A meningococcal disease. Over 235 million children and young adults have been immunized, reducing cases from 250,000 in 1996 to just 80 in 2015.
A new study by San Diego State University found that Charlie Sheen's HIV-positive disclosure corresponded with record highs of domestic news coverage and Google searches for information about HIV and prevention. The study suggests that celebrity disclosures like Sheen's may help generate renewed national attention for HIV and HIV preve...
Researchers at TU Wien create a photo-electrochemical cell that can store the energy of ultraviolet light even at high temperatures. The new material combines photovoltaics with electrochemistry, paving the way for large-scale industrial storage.
A study from the University of Kansas found that people who relocate frequently tend to view their relationships as disposable, leading to superficial connections. The research suggests that this mindset can negatively affect one's mental and physical health, as well as longevity.
Research reveals a direct link between economic insecurity and physical pain, with feelings of lack of control exacerbating the issue. The study found that individuals who experience financial stress report more physical pain and have reduced pain tolerance.
A large clinical trial found that a vaginal ring releasing an experimental antiretroviral drug reduced the risk of HIV infection by 27% overall and 61% among women ages 25 and older. The study's results suggest age-related disparities in protection, with younger women showing less consistent use and lower protection.
A new detection system for Android could protect smartphones from malicious content, finding that even reputable apps can lead users to websites hosting malicious ads. The team tested one million apps and found that ads asking users to download a program are the most dangerous, containing malicious software about 50% of the time.
A new Canadian guideline recommends fecal occult blood testing (FOBT) every two years or flexible sigmoidoscopy every 10 years for routine screening of colorectal cancer in asymptomatic, low-risk adults aged 50-74. The guideline also recommends against colonoscopy as a primary screening tool, citing lack of direct evidence.
Researchers estimate that 69 out of 100 male lions will die from age-independent causes, mostly killed by trophy hunters or local farmers. This puts the entire lion population at risk, disrupting social structures and leading to increased mortality rates.
Researchers developed a designer recombinase called Brec1 that can specifically remove the provirus from most primary HIV-1 isolates. The approach has shown promise as a potential new therapy for HIV, with antiviral effects without measurable cytotoxic or genotoxic side effects.
Researchers at the University of Missouri have developed a new biological technique for hip joint replacement that uses larger, size-matched grafts with beveled edges to provide longer-lasting repair. The study shows that these larger grafts maintain joint viability and structural integrity throughout the six-month study period.
PPO herbicides show improved performance when applied at noon, outperforming early morning and late evening applications by 15-20% and 10%, respectively. This timing affects weed control in glyphosate-tolerant soybeans.
The dapivirine ring reduced the risk of HIV infection by 27 percent overall among more than 2,600 women in Africa. Women aged 25 and older saw a significant reduction in HIV risk, with some experiencing a cut in risk of over half.
Two large studies confirm the monthly vaginal ring's effectiveness in preventing HIV-1 infection in women, with a 30% overall reduction in infections. The ring's efficacy varies by age and consistent use, highlighting the need to overcome barriers to prevention for younger women.
RIT researchers are investigating properties of binary black hole mergers and inferring the rate of such mergers based on their implications for the gravitational wave background. They aim to detect a range of signals from unexplained bursts to a background 'hum' from the distant universe.
Researchers found consistent patterns in species distribution shifts within assemblages, influenced by temperature and depth. Climate change impacts vary between regions, affecting predator-prey interactions and fisheries management.
A University of Illinois study found that graphic warning labels on cigarette packs can backfire, causing smokers to feel threatened and less likely to quit. The study suggests that these labels can produce a 'boomerang effect', leading smokers to smoke more despite the warnings.
Lund University scientists discovered that malignant tumors consume more sugar than surrounding tissue, making sugar a promising non-synthetic contrast agent. The study's results suggest the potential to reduce medical care costs by replacing metal-based agents with sugar-based alternatives.
Research suggests that moderate alcohol consumption may be beneficial for cardiovascular health, with studies showing a lower risk of heart failure and acute myocardial infarction among frequent drinkers. However, high levels of alcohol consumption were associated with increased risks of other diseases and social problems.
A recent study published in Scientific Reports found that consuming dried plums can protect against bone loss caused by ionizing radiation. The researchers tested mice using different interventions and found that dried plum was most effective in reducing the breakdown of bone and preventing spongy bone effects.
The oldest zoological journal in Africa, African Invertebrates, has moved to Pensoft's ARPHA publishing platform for fast-track professional publication services and semantically enriched content. This move aims to ensure the journal's future relevance and growth through cutting-edge publishing tools and workflows.
A new study finds that US forests are experiencing severe drought effects, with potentially devastating consequences for biodiversity and ecosystem services. The research highlights the urgent need for better understanding of forest responses to drought and climate change.
Dr. Heidi M. Mansour investigates and designs innovative treatments, including new drugs and advanced delivery mechanisms, to treat unmet medical needs in lung diseases such as COPD, asthma, and cystic fibrosis. Her goal is to see these dry powder inhalers end up on pharmacy shelves, helping patients live better lives.
Dracula orchids mimic mushrooms to attract fruit flies, which then spread pollen. The study found the key to mimicry lies in the mushroom-like labellum attached to the plant's reproductive column.
Early screening is crucial for detecting autism in toddlers, as it can diagnose symptoms around the second birthday, compared to a fourth birthday without screening. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends universal screening, which has been shown to improve treatment outcomes and reduce disparities in diagnosis.
The Institute for In Vitro Sciences (IIVS) received a grant from the Research Institute for Fragrance Materials (RIFM) to develop non-animal test methods for fragrance materials. The project aims to characterize respiratory effects using computational approaches and in chemico techniques.
Zebrafish exposed to atrazine during embryonic development exhibited reproductive problems, including swollen abdomens and breeding complications, in their young. The study also found physical deformations, such as decreased head length to body length ratio, and increased progesterone levels in affected parents.
A new study by the University of Michigan explores how children perceive fairness in discipline practices. Preschool-age children tend to favor giving equal rewards or punishments, while older children and adults prefer a more merit-based approach.
A recent Brown University-led study has resolved long-standing discrepancies in research on aging by identifying the human chemotherapy drug FUdR as a key factor. The study found that FUdR triggers stress response and DNA repair pathways in C. elegans worms, allowing them to better endure adverse conditions and lengthening their lifespan.
A 90-million-year-old fossil fish has been identified as a new species, Pentanogmius fritschi, with a tuna-like body and unique 'hook-shaped sail'. The discovery was made by Kenshu Shimada and his team at the Perot Museum of Nature and Science in Dallas.
An international task force has updated definitions of sepsis and septic shock to bring clarity to diagnosis and treatment. The new definitions include the quick Sepsis-related Organ Failure Assessment (qSOFA) to help clinicians diagnose septic patients and start life-saving treatment.
A recent study published in Journal of Thoracic Oncology found that the FDA-approved VENTANA anti-ALK(D5F3)CDx assay is superior to the 5A4 IHC assay for selecting patients with non-small cell lung cancer eligible for ALK tyrosine kinase inhibitor treatment.
A global study of ICU patients found that 10.4% develop Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS), a condition with high mortality rates. The study also revealed inconsistent approaches to managing ARDS, including inadequate ventilation strategies and underuse of protective mechanical ventilation.
The 'Children's World' study found that most eight-year-old children (62%) liked going to school, while a minority reported being left out or hit by classmates. Children in some countries had lower life satisfaction, with safety and well-being varying by region.
A University of Tsukuba study found that astaxanthin promotes neurogenesis in the hippocampus and elevates learning and memory capacity. The research discovered specific molecular pathways contributing to improved memory capacity, paving the way for targeted mechanisms in medical food development.
Rice researchers develop an open-source laser sintering platform that can print intricate 3D objects from powdered plastics and biomaterials. The system costs significantly less than commercial counterparts and allows researchers to work with their own specialized materials.
A new study found that losing just 5% of body weight has significant health benefits for obese patients, including reduced risk for diabetes and cardiovascular disease. The study also showed improvements in metabolic function in liver, fat, and muscle tissue.
Researchers have identified multiple gene therapy approaches to treat Alzheimer's disease, including boosting neuroprotection, increasing autophagy-related proteins, and regulating lipid metabolism. These strategies aim to address the underlying neuropathological changes associated with the disease.
A study of 105 cancer patients found significant sleep disturbances before radiotherapy treatment. These problems were associated with cancer progression, prior treatments like chemotherapy, and anxiety. Researchers warn that addressing these issues is crucial for improving patient quality of life.
Systematic reviews identify early-life risk factors, including maternal smoking and high birth weight, that contribute to childhood obesity. Interventions such as prenatal dietary coaching and parenting practices also show promise in reducing the risk of overweight children.
A philosopher at Ruhr-University Bochum argues that our brain constructs complex contents immediately upon spotting an object, integrating typical features into a pattern. This process is evident in both individual and social perception, and has evolutionary significance.
A Johns Hopkins study found record highs in domestic news coverage of HIV and Google searches for information about HIV and HIV prevention following Charlie Sheen's HIV-positive disclosure on NBC's TODAY Show. The study suggests that the public's response to Sheen's announcement led to an increase in people seeking out public health sa...
Researchers developed a framework to address uncertainty in mathematical models by considering the effects of correlated parameters. This approach improves model predictability and reliability, with applications in fields such as catalysis, combustion, environmental sciences, and biology.
A new study found that adding raltegravir to standard antiretroviral therapy did not reduce HIV DNA levels or improve CD4+ T-cell counts in early HIV infection patients. Researchers from the University of Washington and National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases reported their results after a 96-week study.
Researchers at Northwestern University developed a new scheme using plasmonics to control infrared plasmons, enabling fast transmission of massive data. By modulating light signals in the near-infrared wavelength region, they can potentially switch signals in optical fibers with high speeds.
Research found that damage to brain connections can impact aphasia severity, with some patients having more severe symptoms despite similar stroke volumes. Investigators used MRI imaging to map neural connections and identified patterns associated with language difficulties.
Researchers confirm shelled mammal as armadillo's ancestor, revealing recent ancestral connections that have long fascinated biologists. The study sheds light on the glyptodont's place within the Xenarthra group and its extinction during the Ice Age.
Children discharged from hospital infrequently receive home health care (HHC) and facility-based post-acute care (PAC), according to a national study. HHC is most commonly used for neonatal care, while PAC facilities treat non-neonatal respiratory, musculoskeletal, and trauma-related problems.
Bats have a unique ability to carry but remain unaffected by lethal diseases due to their constant immune response. The Australian black flying fox has only three interferons, which is a fraction of the number found in people, yet it can control viral infections that are lethal in humans.
Scientists at Nagoya University have made a breakthrough in synthesizing cyanohydrins, useful molecules that are precursors to carboxylic acids and amino acids. The new method uses a chiral catalyst to produce optically active cyanohydrins with high yield and efficiency.
Researchers analysed genetic variation in extinct Glanville fritillary butterfly populations to understand metapopulation dynamics. The study shows that rapid environmental change can lead to species adaptation through natural selection on dispersal.