A new brain study confirms that practice makes perfect in professional ballet dancers, showing the long-term effects of learning complex dance motor sequences. The study found an inverted 'U' learning pattern, where brain activation increases during initial learning and performance, but then decreases as mastery is achieved.
Researchers investigate how plants respond to environmental changes and geographical variation, shedding light on their potential for evolution and adaptability. The study aims to improve predictions of selective pressures and failures for wild plants through comparative studies and genetic analysis.
A previously unknown mechanism regulating neurogenesis has been discovered, involving precise temporal control of proneural protein activity. This mechanism involves a reversible chemical modification that enables the establishment of a network of functional neurons.
Detailed genetic analysis reveals mitochondrial DNA was present in Island Southeast Asia 11,500 years ago, challenging the 'Out of Taiwan' theory. The linguistic spread of Austronesian languages is attributed to elite groups and cultural exchange, rather than mass migration.
A roundtable discussion explores the addictive potential of cannabis, its symptoms, risks, and health consequences. The discussion also examines current research efforts to identify effective treatments for cannabis addiction and ongoing clinical trials testing investigational agents.
Researchers found that epigenetic marks play a crucial role in determining individual predisposition to obesity, even in genetically identical mice and human twin pairs. The study reveals a key role for Trim28 deficiency in explaining individual differences in obesity.
New research reveals that exercise alone is insufficient for weight loss due to the human body's adaptive response. A study published in Current Biology found that daily energy expenditure increases with moderate physical activity but plateaus at higher levels.
Researchers have determined that the Smith Cloud, a high-velocity cloud in the galaxy, contains heavier elements similar to those found in our sun, suggesting it originated from the Milky Way's outer edges. The cloud is now expected to crash into the galaxy's disk in 30 million years, potentially generating two million suns.
Researchers use oxygen isotope analysis to confirm Earth and moon had similar chemical composition after collision, suggesting a head-on impact. The study also suggests the early Earth may have lost water due to subsequent asteroid collisions.
A new study by NYU researchers identifies molecular switches that turn on gene expression in the notochord, a precursor to the backbone. The team used a marine organism called Ciona and found that specific transcription factors bind DNA sequences, known as CRMs, to control gene expression.
The world lost more than twice as much interior forest area than it gained between 2000 and 2012, with a net loss of 3.76 million square kilometers. This resulted in a fragmentation of remaining forests, increasing ecological risks.
A study found that refugee women, particularly those who spent time in transit countries, are at a higher risk of giving birth prematurely. This increased risk is attributed to factors such as long-term exposure to poor living conditions, anxiety, and stress. The researchers suggest implementing policies to shorten the time refugees sp...
Researchers at the University of Arizona College of Pharmacy have discovered a compound found in annatto, a natural food additive, that prevents the formation of cancer cells and skin damage from UV radiation. The compound, bixin, may be valuable in the prevention and treatment of human skin cancers.
European scientists sent Antarctic fungi to the International Space Station for 18 months in conditions similar to Mars. More than 60% of their cells remained intact with stable DNA, indicating their ability to survive harsh Martian environments. Lichens from Spain and Austria also showed resilience under simulated Martian conditions.
A study identified a subset of immune signaling proteins associated with autism development in mice. Blocking these proteins during pregnancy eliminated autism-like behavior in offspring, hinting at a potential prevention method.
Agricultural expansion is a leading cause of wild species loss and greenhouse gas emissions. To combat this, researchers propose "land-sparing mechanisms" that link yield increases with habitat protection, such as zoning and smart subsidy schemes. By minimizing farming's footprint, land can be spared for conserving natural habitats.
The study confirms the importance of sugar to cancer survival and provides essential new information for developing PI3K inhibitor drugs. The discovery creates a previously unidentified link between a cancer cell's form and shape and its metabolic capabilities.
Researchers have found that carnitine deficiency can interfere with neural stem cell development, increasing autism risk. Supplementing carnitine may help offset this effect, particularly in cases involving genetic mutations associated with TMLHE gene variants.
Scientists develop custom-fit graphene cages to enhance silicon anode particles, improving charging capacity and stability. The approach could enable larger, cheaper, and more efficient batteries.
The study reveals that 5hmC mark acts as a key signal connecting complexes that regulate gene expression, influencing cellular differentiation and energy metabolism in embryonic stem cells. The findings suggest that 5hmC may play a central role in the coordinated evolution of chromatin-related proteins.
More than three quarters of Australians consider the Great Barrier Reef part of their national identity, and nearly 90% believe it is under threat from climate change. The survey also found that many Australians feel personally connected to the reef's protection.
Scientists have successfully reproduced hybrid plants using natural cloning methods, allowing them to retain increased efficiency across multiple generations. This breakthrough could provide more affordable and productive crop options for small-scale farmers in developing countries.
Rice scientists observed that blood serum proteins irreversibly attach, unfold, and bring gold nanoparticles together in low concentrations. This counterintuitive behavior has significant implications for diseases caused by aggregation, such as Alzheimer's, and nanoparticle toxicity issues.
A study found that HER2-positive lung cancer is caused by either gene amplification or mutation, rather than both. This distinction implies the need for different treatment options, including targeted therapies approved for breast cancer.
An international team has developed a digital reblocking platform to help urban slum communities create more resilient neighborhoods. The open-source tool allows residents to map buildings, thoroughfares, and services and propose new layouts that efficiently solve access issues.
Researchers from Kumamoto University used a new analysis system to evaluate the effectiveness of antithrombotic drugs in preventing and curing diseases caused by blood clots. The T-TAS system was able to accurately measure blood clotting ability, enabling healthcare providers to make informed decisions about medication management.
Researchers found that patients taking strong anticholinergic medications performed poorly on attention tests and had lower physical function compared to those not taking the medication. The study suggests that alternative treatment options may be more effective in rehabilitating patients with dementia.
Researchers at the University of Oregon documented leafcutter ants' prehensile skills, revealing how they divide tasks to process leaves and grow food supply. The study found that energy conservation and division of labor are crucial for the ants' survival and health.
Babylonian astronomers calculated Jupiter's position using geometry, challenging the long-held assumption that this technique was introduced in Europe much later. The tablets, written between 350 and 50 BCE, depict geometric calculations for time-space and distance, revealing a sophisticated understanding of astronomy.
A laboratory study found that cherry-flavored e-cigarettes contain significantly higher levels of benzaldehyde than other flavors, which can irritate the airways. The study suggests that long-term use of cherry-flavored e-cigarettes may result in repeated exposure to this substance.
Research provides new insights into Group A Streptococcus by demonstrating its toxin, Streptolysin S, targets a specific protein on red blood cells, leading to hemolysis. Chemical inhibition of this protein reduces the toxin's activity and alters the pathology of GAS in skin infections.
A recent study found that adolescents are more prudent in their decision-making when a slightly older adult is present. The researchers discovered that groups with younger soldiers benefited from the inclusion of a mid- to late-20s soldier, who led to fewer risks and a stronger preference for delayed rewards.
A study of nearly 1 million Ontario adults found that preoperative laboratory tests were conducted prior to approximately 30% of low-risk surgical procedures. The rate of these tests varied significantly among institutions, with some performing them in over 98% of cases and others in none.
The conference aimed to address the issue of father involvement in child protection, particularly among ethnic minority families. Researchers emphasized the need for social workers to engage with fathers, who are often marginalized or powerless, to prevent family difficulties and promote a positive parenting environment.
A study by Baylor College of Medicine found that genetic testing can identify the cause of childhood cancer in 40% of patients, including mutations not previously associated with the disease. The test can also reveal potential clinical targets for treatment and risk of hereditary diseases.
A University of California, San Diego study found that weight loss programs emphasizing healthy fats lower both good and bad cholesterol. The walnut-rich diet had the most impact on cholesterol levels, decreasing low-density lipoprotein and increasing high-density lipoprotein.
Researchers demonstrate that human brain uses different frequency channels depending on the direction of information transport, similar to macaque monkeys. The findings might help understand the cause of psychiatric illnesses where top-down and bottom-up flows get mixed up.
Researchers at University of Wisconsin-Madison discovered that people with excellent 3D vision are more susceptible to motion sickness while using virtual reality displays. The study found that these individuals are also better at judging the direction of moving objects, which may contribute to their discomfort.
A study published in Conservation Biology found that China's National Forest Conservation Program increased forest cover and improved wildlife habitat, particularly for the giant panda. The program's payment scheme proved effective in engaging local residents to monitor and protect forests.
Typical foods induce immune tolerance conditions in the small intestine by creating regulatory T cells, which inform the immune system on safe food antigens. This mechanism helps prevent food allergies and is crucial for maintaining gut health.
Native forests reduce flood frequency and severity, while coral reefs provide a 97% cost-effective defense from storm surges. The cost of adaptation could reach $100 billion per year, but intact ecosystems offer the best defense against climate change.
Research finds that breastfeeding can add billions to the global economy by preventing child deaths and improving cognitive abilities. Globally, improved breastfeeding rates could prevent 820,000 child deaths annually and save over $2.45 billion in treatment costs.
Researchers found that blacks, Latinos and Asians had lower risk of coronary heart disease compared to whites without diabetes or prior history of heart disease. The study suggests systematic efforts by Kaiser Permanente may help reduce racial disparities in health care.
A recent study found that hearing aids enhance working memory, selective attention, and processing speed in individuals with bilateral sensorineural hearing loss. This improvement allows individuals to focus more efficiently and reduce cognitive fatigue.
Researchers developed a novel, more accurate classification system for gliomas using molecular profiles of 1122 cells. The study identified seven categories for tumor progression assessment, providing a more precise way to predict patient outcomes and treatment responses.
Berkeley Lab researchers find XPG plays a critical role in maintaining genome stability, raising the possibility that it prevents breast and ovarian cancers. The protein interacts with BRCA1 and BRCA2 to carry out homologous recombination repair.
Researchers found that immune responses similar to viral infections in pregnant mice altered brain structure and caused behaviors associated with autism spectrum disorder. Blocking the action of a specific immune cell population restored normal behavior and brain structure in offspring.
Researchers have explained why platinum nanoclusters facilitate the hydrogenation reaction used to produce ethane from ethylene. The shape of these small clusters dramatically affects reaction efficiency, contradicting macro-scale observations. The findings may apply to other catalysts and reactions at the nanoscale.
A team of researchers found that specific patterns of histone modifications, known as acetylation motifs, play a crucial role in regulating gene expression. The study suggests that the distribution of these motifs depends on the neighboring marks, providing new insights into epigenetic mechanisms.
A developing tropical low pressure area, System 92S, is expected to become a depression in the next day or two off Australia's northwestern coast. NASA's GPM satellite gathered data indicating rain falling at rates of up to 96.7 mm/h and storm tops reaching altitudes of over 16 km.
Researchers at McGill University found that chronic pain changes DNA marking in the brain and white blood cells, impacting immune function. This epigenetic discovery could lead to new targets for pain medications.
A study of 536 patients found that those admitted as medical emergencies at weekends are significantly older and more physically incapacitated than weekday admissions. The researchers suggest this may explain the higher death toll for weekend hospital admissions.
Researchers found that rat whisker mechanoreceptors act as tiny calculators, computing whisker rotation and updating the brain. This discovery sheds light on the complex interactions between sensory organs and the brain.
A multi-center study identified distinct molecular and clinical features in diffuse glioma patients, shedding light on disease progression. The findings may lead to improved treatment outcomes by enabling precise prediction of tumor growth and response to therapy.
Researchers analyzed hundreds of peer-reviewed articles to find that fish populations worldwide are contaminated with industrial and agricultural pollutants. However, pollutant concentrations have been consistently dropping over the last 30 years.
A new US study reveals a persistent link between low birth weights and income levels, contrasting with other developed countries. The research found that disparities in birth weights were most pronounced in the US, where birth weights dropped consistently with income level.
Researchers found that estrogens selectively calm hyperactive behavior in zebrafish with a genetic mutation linked to autism. The study suggests estrogens may target specific brain pathways affected in ASD, which could lead to new treatments for the condition.
Researchers from Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute found that failing hearts switch to ketone metabolism as an alternative fuel source. This discovery may lead to new therapeutic targets to prevent or slow progression of heart failure.
Researchers propose that certain individuals may experience heightened sensitivity to nanoparticles due to pre-existing conditions affecting the liver or lungs. This suggests a need for personalized models and clinical trials to better understand nanoparticle-related infusion reactions.
Researchers at the University of Hawaii have successfully generated male mice without Y chromosome genes, which can now father offspring through assisted reproduction. These 'No Y' males were created by replacing essential Y chromosome genes with their X chromosome counterparts and demonstrate functional redundancy within genomes.