Scientists have discovered a dark moon orbiting Makemake, one of the largest and brightest known Kuiper Belt Objects. The discovery provides insights into the origin and evolution of our solar system, suggesting that giant collisions are a near-universal fixture in the histories of these distant worlds.
Researchers propose reducing the threshold for pre-emptive surgery on women at high risk of ovarian cancer from 10% to 4%. This could add up to 43 extra days of life expectancy if hormone replacement therapy is taken. The procedure would be cost-effective and help compensate for the lack of a reliable test.
A new anthrax capsule vaccine has been found to completely protect monkeys from lethal inhalational anthrax infection. The study suggests that the capsule is a highly effective vaccine component that could be incorporated into future generation anthrax vaccines, offering a safer alternative to existing protective antigen-based vaccines.
A new study by the University of East Anglia examines the relationship between emotional intelligence, stress, burnout, and social work practice. The researchers found that emotional intelligence was a key predictor of stress and burnout, while realistic workloads and administrative support were essential for effective social work.
A new tool for precision medicine has been developed through epigenetic analysis, which addresses key limitations of genetic testing. This technology provides unprecedented insights into disease mechanisms and can help identify suitable treatments for individual patients.
Dr. David Valle will receive the Arno Motulsky-Barton Childs Award for Excellence in Human Genetics Education at ASHG's 66th Annual Meeting. He has made significant contributions to genetics education through various programs and publications, including the Predoctoral Training Program in Human Genetics.
Chemist Phil Baran of TSRI has won a Blavatnik National Award for his transformative research in natural product synthesis and development of new synthetic methodology. This award recognizes the potential of his work to create life-saving medicines, including the approved treatment of skin cancer.
A new software tool, RepeatAnalyzer, has been developed to track and catalogue short repeating sequences of bacterial DNA, improving scientists' ability to identify and understand bacterial strains. This technology could significantly accelerate vaccine development for tick-borne bacteria such as Anaplasma marginale.
Tropical Cyclone 02A is consolidating in the Arabian Sea, with cold cloud tops indicating strong uplift and heavy rain potential. The system is forecasted to reach peak intensity of 50 knots within a day or so before dissipating around June 30.
Researchers suggest that hot, rocky planets could alter their bulk composition, density, and internal structure due to steam atmosphere loss. This process may have implications for understanding the early Earth's evolution and character.
Researchers discover 'reactive effort' in sign languages, where movements produce torque on the torso, and find that vocabulary avoids signs requiring extra reactive effort. This biological universal sheds light on language and physical activity.
A systematic review of over 68,000 elderly people found no association between 'bad cholesterol' and cardiovascular deaths. High levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL-C) were often linked to longer life, contradicting the long-held cholesterol hypothesis.
Researchers have performed the first large-scale genomic analysis of P. vivax malaria infections, revealing patterns of variation that result from ancient events and recent selection. The study provides valuable information on parasite diversity within individuals and globally, which is essential for understanding how malaria is transm...
Researchers from UNC-Chapel Hill and NC State University developed a new technology to improve imaging of neuronal activity in the brain, capturing images up to 9.5 square millimeters - a 10 times larger area than previously possible.
Researchers discovered that serpentine-tolerant Arabidopsis arenosa plants have adapted to extreme conditions through natural selection and gene borrowing. This study provides valuable insights into the genetic basis of plant adaptation, which can be used to develop stress-resistant crop varieties.
A large-scale survey found that lesbian, gay, and bisexual adults report higher rates of severe psychological distress, heavy drinking, and smoking compared to heterosexuals. The study highlights the need for healthcare professionals and public health practitioners to address the unique health needs of this vulnerable population.
A Swedish national register study found that individuals with type 2 diabetes from low socioeconomic status have a higher risk of death from all causes and cardiovascular disease. The study also revealed a less pronounced increased risk of cancer death among this group.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins have found that emetine, an old drug once used to treat amebiasis, can also halt the replication of cytomegalovirus (CMV), a herpesvirus causing serious disease in immunocompromised individuals. Lower concentrations and less frequent doses of emetine may be effective for CMV inhibition.
Researchers found the 2009 swine H1N1 flu virus originated from pigs in a small region in central Mexico, with genetic analysis revealing its precise location and molecular transformations. This discovery sheds light on how animal influenza viruses infect humans and spread globally.
A recent study analyzed data from over 50 million privately insured patients, finding a 37% rise in out-of-pocket spending for hospital stays. Deductibles and co-insurance costs increased by 86% and 33%, respectively, with average total bills ranging from $1,200 to $1,800.
Researchers found that players who worked together in a language-learning game learned more words and enjoyed the game more than solo players. The game, called Crystallize, requires players to communicate with their partners to complete quests and build relationships.
Researchers at Thomas Jefferson University have found a new way to keep the heart pumping, which could lead to new drugs for heart disease. By activating the beta2-adrenergic receptor, they can promote the contraction of heart muscle cells and potentially treat heart failure.
A study of older women with newly diagnosed stage I to III breast cancer found that approximately one in five experienced functional decline within a year of treatment initiation. The Vulnerable Elders Survey was used to identify those at risk, showing promise for early identification and prevention of functional decline.
Scientists at CNIC discover how immune cells adapt to live bacteria through mitochondrial metabolism changes. The study found that detection of live bacteria triggers a change in the mitochondrial electron transport chain, enabling macrophages to redirect metabolic routes for efficient energy production.
A study on Plasmodium vivax reveals rapid evolution of drug resistance in response to widely-used antimalarial drugs. The genomic data sets will guide effective malaria control and elimination strategies, supporting local public health efforts.
Researchers at Allina Health have developed an algorithm to simplify the complex pathology classification process for pituitary adenomas. The new system helps pathologists make a more accurate diagnosis with fewer tests, saving time and reducing costs.
Researchers at New York University are investigating a novel, non-viral gene delivery method for treating oral cancer pain. The method has shown promise in preclinical studies, with a significant reduction in cancer pain and minimal cytotoxicity.
Researchers found a clandestine black hole, VLA J2130+12, within the Milky Way galaxy, which is about five times closer to Earth than previously thought. This black hole is pulling in material from a companion star at a very slow rate, making it nearly undetectable.
A new exploration technique has discovered significant helium reserves in Tanzania, providing a much-needed supply to address the growing demand. The discovery could fill over 1.2 million medical MRI scanners, alleviating a critical shortage of this vital element.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine discovered that blocking the enzyme c-Abl prevents Parkinson's disease symptoms in specially bred mice. The study also found that a chemical tag on the protein α-synuclein may signal the disorder's presence and progression. The findings suggest both a promising target for drug research and a potent...
A new method to pack quantum computing power into a small space and control it was devised by Penn State researchers. The technique uses laser light and microwaves to precisely control the switching of individual qubits, enabling calculations impossible for classical computers.
A global analysis of 38 studies found that over a third of elderly patients receive invasive and potentially harmful medical treatments at the end of their life. The study highlights the need for better training for hospital doctors and more community education to reduce non-beneficial treatments.
NASA's Solar Dynamics Observatory (SDO) captured a video of twisting solar material on the sun's surface, showcasing turbulence caused by combative magnetic forces. The footage reveals a dark filament suspended above the sun's surface.
Scientists at Harvard University have developed a 'bionic' cardiac patch that can monitor and respond to cardiac problems, potentially revolutionizing heart attack treatment. The patch, made of nanoscale electronic scaffolds, can detect arrhythmia and adjust its performance in real-time.
A team of scientists has sequenced approximately 200 DNA samples of Plasmodium vivax collected from patients in 11 countries, revealing its genetic diversity and evolution. The study suggests that P. vivax is adapting to regional differences and anti-malarial drugs, making it challenging to eliminate globally.
Researchers Rumiati and Foroni review how food is represented in the brain, exploring theories on sensory-functional and domain-specific categorization. They find that the 'foodstuff' category can help disambiguate among approaches and highlight the importance of variables like transformation and perceived calories.
A new consensus statement on physical activity in schools and during leisure time reveals that exercise boosts kids' brain power and academic prowess. Regular physical activity improves heart health, metabolism, and develops life skills, boosting self-esteem and social inclusion.
A study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences found that 54 mouse testis-enriched genes are not crucial for male fertility. This discovery helps scientists narrow down the number of possible genes involved in male infertility, allowing them to focus on essential genes first.
A new German research project will examine migrant care workers' arrangements, comparing Germany's family-responsibility model with the Netherlands' state-framed system. The study aims to assess care quality in private households and its socio-political significance.
The world's peat bogs, once waterlogged repositories of dead moss, are being converted into fuel-packed fire hazards that can burn for months and generate deadly smoke. Research shows that peat mining, drainage, and global warming have made a growing number of the world's bogs dry and vulnerable to fire.
A recent survey of water polo players found that 36% reported concussions, with goalies facing the highest risk. The study highlights the need for increased player safety and head protection during practice.
A global study has identified four genetically distinct populations of Plasmodium vivax, the parasite responsible for debilitating forms of malaria. The findings provide insights into the movement and adaptation of P. vivax over time, suggesting regional variations in mosquito transmission and human infection.
A national study found lesbian, gay, and bisexual adults experience significant health disparities, particularly in mental health and substance use. The study suggests that minority stress, including exposure to interpersonal and structural discrimination, contributes to these health outcomes.
A pain medicine has been shown to preserve vision in a model of severe retinal degeneration by activating a receptor vital to a healthy retina. The drug (+)-pentazocine enables the survival of cone cells, allowing detailed color vision to remain intact.
Research reveals most radioactive caesium fallout was concentrated in glassy microparticles, not dissolved in rainwater, with high radioactivity per unit mass. This challenges previous assumptions about Fukushima fallout and its health implications.
Researchers at the University of Queensland are testing a new drug that targets IL-33 protein to slow or reverse asthma development. The drug has shown promise in mouse model research published in the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology.
The 66th Lindau Nobel Laureate Meeting brings together 29 Nobel laureates and over 400 young scientists from 80 countries to discuss physics and quantum technology. The meeting aims to inspire and connect the next generation of scientists through knowledge transfer and collaboration.
The study found that families reported better quality of end-of-life care for patients with cancer or dementia compared to those with end-stage renal disease (ESRD), cardiopulmonary failure, or frailty. Palliative care consultations, do-not-resuscitate orders, and setting of death were associated with improved quality of care.
Researchers create a biomechanical model of pregnant women using 3D motion capture, verifying the 'pregnancy waddle' and enabling safer daily tasks. The study aims to improve comfort and reduce falls during pregnancy.
Researchers at Ohio State University have developed a patent-pending technology to create a coating that allows soap products to flow freely from plastic bottles. The coating involves microscopic y-shaped structures that cradle droplets of soap aloft above tiny air pockets, preventing the soap from touching the inside of the bottle.
Scientists using cosmological simulations and gravitational wave signals predict initial mass of supermassive black hole seeds. The research aims to uncover mechanism that created these massive black holes and when they formed in the early Universe.
A study of patients who died at VA hospitals found that family-reported end-of-life care was significantly better for those with cancer or dementia than for those with other serious illnesses. Increasing access to palliative care may improve quality of end-of-life care for patients dying of heart, lung, and kidney diseases.
Researchers at Georgetown University Medical Center's Institute for Reproductive Health are studying the use of a smartphone app that calculates a woman's chance for pregnancy. The app, Dot, has been shown to be 96-98% effective in women if used correctly and increases accuracy with continued use.
Studies show that e-consults can decrease wait times, improve clinical care, and reduce the need for face-to-face appointments. The use of electronic consultations increases access to specialists' care for patients who often have difficulty getting a specialist, including the uninsured and underinsured.
Researchers have discovered a super-fast rotating, ultra-cool brown-dwarf star, measuring its rotational period with bursts of radio waves detected by the Arecibo telescope. This groundbreaking detection reveals new insights into the internal dynamics and magnetic field generation in these objects.
The Second Century Stewardship initiative aims to engage science in America's national parks through a feature-length film and collaborative programs. The partnership will focus on Acadia National Park initially, with the goal of scaling nationally to promote science literacy and park stewardship.
A study involving UT Southwestern researchers found that primary care visits lead to higher rates of colon cancer screening and better follow-up care, even in health systems promoting mail-in stool blood tests. This result underscores the importance of primary care physician visits in a virtual care era.
A novel fault diagnosis method using resonance-based sparse signal decomposition and principal component analysis is proposed to diagnose early faults of rolling bearings. The experimental results show that the proposed method quickly discerns faulty elements, improving diagnostic accuracy.
Research by University of Montana scientists reveals the importance of gravel-bed river floodplains to entire ecosystems, supporting over half the plant life and 70% of bird species in the Yellowstone to Yukon region. These habitats provide complex food webs and essential connectivity for terrestrial and aquatic organisms.
Emelia Benjamin, a renowned cardiologist and researcher, has received the American Heart Association's (AHA) highest award for her leadership and contributions to cardiovascular research. She has propelled the AHA's research mission through her work as associate editor of the AHA journal Circulation and chair of multiple committees.