Researchers aim to spare people with type 1 diabetes from lifelong insulin therapy by developing three-dimensional cellular structures of insulin-producing cells. The EU-funded project plans to work with pharmaceutical industry partners to mass-produce the cells for transplantation.
A new study reveals that a targeted immune pathway may be the key to preserving cognitive function in Alzheimer's disease. By blocking this pathway, researchers were able to reduce synapse loss in mouse models of the disease, offering hope for a potential therapeutic target to halt its progression.
A new study from MIT reveals how two populations of neurons in the amygdala form parallel channels that carry information about pleasant or unpleasant events. The findings suggest that to fully understand how the brain processes emotions, neuroscientists will have to delve deeper into more specific populations.
Researchers found Mycoplasma pneumoniae infections in over half of hospitalized children with pneumonia in Beijing, predicting an ongoing epidemic. The study may help clinicians slow the spread of the disease.
Scientists have assembled the gorilla genome using PacBio's long-read SMRT sequencing, achieving a 150-fold improvement over previous assemblies. The new assembly recovers nearly all missing sequence and provides additional euchromatic sequence, enabling researchers to study biological mechanisms and traits.
Researchers found that UPF3A protein plays critical role in RNA regulation and male fertility, potentially leading to new treatments for infertility and various genetic diseases. The study also reveals the importance of NMD pathway in eliminating faulty mRNAs and preventing disease.
Five researchers who designed and executed the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent Health will receive the Golden Goose Award. The study has provided unanticipated insights into how adolescent health affects wellbeing long into adulthood and laid essential groundwork for research into the nation's obesity epidemic.
Argonne National Laboratory scientists have developed a new method for improving lithium-ion battery performance testing, utilizing a tiny measurement device called a reference electrode. The design enhances the quantity and quality of information extracted from battery cells during cycling, providing crucial insights into battery health.
A recent study published in Frontiers in Neural Circuits identified specific brain areas that may contribute to stress-induced depression. The research found that mice displaying 'helpless' behavior had reduced neuronal activation and stereotypical brain-wide activity patterns, which are distinct from those showing 'resilient' behavior.
Economic conditions have caused significant increases in financial inequality among older Americans over the past three decades. Inequality is higher after age 64, especially after 74, compared to traditional working years. Middle-aged and older individuals face a difficult future due to the disappearance of well-paying jobs and pensions.
Researchers are investigating psychedelic compounds as potential treatments for mental health issues such as posttraumatic stress disorder, addiction, and depression. Early studies have shown promising results, including significant relief from patients who experienced long-term symptoms of PTSD.
Researchers have discovered that a cancer drug can effectively treat venous malformations, a condition characterized by deformed blood vessels. The treatment uses a topical cream that targets the mutations causing VMs, offering new hope for patients with this often incurable condition.
A new computer simulation called MEteor engages middle school students in learning physics concepts like planetary motion and gravitational acceleration by having them physically act out asteroid travel. The study found that students who used the immersive simulation showed significant gains in understanding and positive attitudes towa...
Researchers predict that Antarctica's ice sheet could contribute up to 15 meters of sea-level rise by 2500 if greenhouse gas emissions continue unabated. An aggressive reduction in emissions could limit the risk of major Antarctic ice sheet retreat and associated sea-level rise.
A new Simon Fraser University study documents taphonomy of a pig carcass in the Strait of Georgia, showing a dramatically different scavenging progression than earlier studies. The research provides valuable information for recovery divers and can aid in estimating minimum submergence times and identifying water exposure.
Researchers at the University of Miami studied dynamic functional network connectivity in the insular cortex, revealing unique and overlapping profiles of its subdivisions. The findings suggest that changes in connection patterns between brain areas may contribute to the region's flexibility in multiple cognitive processes.
The USDA has awarded grants to 11 universities to research the use of nanotechnology in improving food safety, enhancing renewable fuels, increasing crop yields, managing agricultural pests, and more. The research aims to develop innovative solutions for addressing key challenges in agriculture.
A rat study found that adolescent amphetamine abuse leads to long-lasting changes in brain function, affecting dopamine signaling and prefrontal cortex development. These changes persist into adulthood, contributing to behavioral consequences like addiction and relapse.
A Penn-led study found that extended-release naltrexone was more effective than usual treatment in preventing drug relapse among ex-prisoners addicted to heroin and other opioids. The medication showed significantly reduced rates of relapse and longer median time to relapse compared to the control group.
NASA-NOAA's Suomi NPP satellite imaged the remnant low pressure area, with poorly-defined center circulation and clouds pushed southeast. The storm weakened rapidly due to strong vertical wind shear, ultimately deteriorating into a low-level trough by March 30.
Whole body electrical stimulation has emerged as a popular fitness trend, but several cases of muscle damage and rhabdomyolysis have been reported. Doctors argue that the technology needs to be regulated due to limited scientific evidence on its safety and effectiveness.
Researchers from Arizona State University discovered that short-term starvation in larval stage makes adult honey bees more resilient to starvation. This finding suggests a predictive adaptive response, similar to solitary organisms, which could help solve the problem of colony collapse disorder.
Researchers have developed hybrid pixel array detectors that can achieve low noise for single-photon detection and spectroscopic imaging. The new technology uses standard components, enabling the creation of larger and more optimized systems.
Researchers have identified two new compounds that show promise in treating Ewing sarcoma, a rare and aggressive form of childhood cancer. The compounds target the transcription factor EWS-FLI1, which plays a key role in gene regulation, leading to uncontrolled cellular proliferation and tumors.
Scientists studied over 15,000 sites across the US, finding nitrogen deposition exceeded critical loads for loss of plant species richness in 24 percent. The study highlights the impact of atmospheric nitrogen deposition on ecosystems, with effects more pronounced in acidic soils and dry climates.
Researchers tracked turtles released outside their familiar areas and found most returned home, often within a few hundred meters of their original location. The study's findings have important implications for turtle conservation, supporting the idea that long-term resettlement is not a realistic option.
Researchers at UCLA found that nerve cells regrow better when glial scarring is left intact, challenging the assumption that scars impede regeneration. The study revealed that glial scars can actually stimulate axon growth and regeneration, leading to new approaches for repairing spinal cord injuries.
Researchers found that larval newts use stem/progenitor cells for muscle regeneration, while metamorphosed newts recruit skeletal muscle fiber cells. The study also revealed that skin, bone, muscle, and nerve tissues can regenerate faithfully in both stages of development.
The Ecological Society of America has selected six graduate students for the 2016 Graduate Student Policy Award. These students will participate in policy training and attend meetings with US Representatives and Senators to discuss federal funding for biological sciences.
A new study reveals that despite the availability of lung cancer tests and treatment to 70% of the world's population, large discrepancies exist in patient access. The study found that many poorer countries lack access to essential tests and treatments due to high costs and low HDI scores.
A team led by Berkeley Lab scientist Gang Ren captured the first 3-D images of individual double-helix DNA segments attached to gold nanoparticles. The images reveal the flexible structure of the DNA segments, which could aid in building molecular devices for drug delivery, biological research, and electronic devices.
A new study from the University of Kansas suggests that a mother's increased vitamin D levels during the second trimester may lower her child's chance of developing asthma. The research found that increased sunlight exposure, which is where Americans get most of their vitamin D, reduces the risk of asthma in children.
Researchers found that patients with aphasia who performed better on speech-fluency tests had higher structural integrity in right hemisphere regions. These areas were found to contribute to speech-fluency, suggesting the right side of the brain reorganizes itself for recovery.
Researchers have uncovered the first confirmed report of tadpoles from the Indian Dancing frog family, revealing unique adaptations such as muscular eel-like bodies and skin-covered eyes. These findings provide valuable information for conservation of ancient and endemic frogs in the Western Ghats biodiversity hotspot.
Scientists have developed transparent wood that can be used in building materials, potentially saving homeowners money on artificial lighting costs. The material, which is stronger than Plexiglass, still traps some light and may boost the efficiency of solar cells.
A University of Michigan study found that personality traits, such as being introverted or extroverted, affect how people interpret language in emails. Introverts are more likely to judge others harshly for grammatical errors, while extroverts tend to be more lenient.
A new study has mapped the climate patterns on a super-Earth planet, revealing a significant temperature difference between its dayside and nightside. The research found that processes similar to those on Earth, such as high winds or lava flows, are at work on this distant world.
A study led by Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago found that even seizure-free children with epilepsy can experience learning difficulties and behavioral problems, leading to suboptimal social and educational outcomes in adulthood. Early identification of these issues is crucial to stave off poor outcomes.
A leading doctor argues that doctors are failing to treat people with gender dysphoria, with one in five GPs refusing hormone prescriptions. The need for treatment is high, with a combined waiting list of over 5,000 people worldwide.
Researchers at Umeà University have developed a smartphone-based method for diagnosing ear infections, achieving an accuracy of 80.6% compared to traditional methods. The cloud-based system enables rapid and reliable diagnoses, potentially improving healthcare outcomes in developing countries.
A study by Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago found that many pediatric surgeons perform rare and complex procedures infrequently, risking skill loss and patient outcomes. The research suggests that high-fidelity simulation-based training can improve surgical skills and reduce error risk.
A study published in Geophysical Research Letters found that marine heatwaves have recurred regularly since 1950 but have become more common since the 1970s. The research analyzed ocean surface temperature observations over 65 years, including a notable 'warm blob' in the Pacific Northwest from 2013 to 2015.
A new study uses multistripe laser triangulation (MLT) scanner to predict water movement through soil, identifying preferential flow patterns. The technique helps scientists manage water resources better by predicting recharge rates, water runoff, and soil erosion.
The Indian Purple frog's unique development allows it to cling to underwater rocks as a tadpole and then dig underground as an adult. This adaptation enables the species to survive in ancient streams.
A New York University study found that serving free breakfast in classrooms increases school breakfast participation, particularly among students who are unable to arrive early. However, the researchers did not find any evidence of a correlation between breakfast in the classroom and increased obesity or academic achievement.
Researchers found that bats exposed to prolonged loud noise showed minimal sensitivity loss, with only a slight decrease of 0.6 decibels over 24 hours. This natural resiliency may hold clues for developing devices or implants to help humans cope with loud noises.
Stefan Savage's work has made significant contributions to network security, including combating spam and vulnerabilities in automotive systems. His research has also influenced international standards and cybersecurity initiatives.
A phase-3 trial led by Stanford University shows baricitinib substantially reduces symptoms and improves daily functioning in refractory rheumatoid arthritis patients. The study, involving over 500 adults, found that baricitinib improved physical function and reduced markers of inflammation, with effects remaining at 24 weeks.
Researchers found that taking hormone therapy within six years of menopause can slow the buildup of plaque in arteries and prevent heart disease. The study suggests that timing is crucial for the effectiveness of hormone therapy in preventing atherosclerosis progression.
Scientists challenge previous findings on the ancient species, concluding they disappeared soon after humans arrived in Flores. New dates suggest Homo floresiensis may have lived until around 50,000 years ago, with evidence of simple stone tools persisting until then.
Mutations in the PIK3CA cancer gene drive venous malformations, a common blood vessel abnormality causing painful and disfiguring lesions. Repurposing PI3K-inhibiting cancer drugs may offer a potential therapeutic avenue for patients with these vascular diseases.
A new study by MIT scientists predicts widespread water shortages in Asia by 2050, with 1 billion more people becoming water-stressed. Economic and population growth, combined with climate change, exacerbate water-access problems.
Researchers found that depictions of frosted cake on cake mix boxes result in consumers overestimating the appropriate serving size by nearly 135% more calories. This is especially true for women in the food service industry, who overestimated serving sizes by 122 calories.
A new study finds that paid maternity leave policies can reduce infant mortality by 13% in low- and middle-income countries. Researchers analyzed data from 20 countries across Africa, Asia, and Latin America and found that extending paid leave by one month prevents about 8 infant deaths per 1,000 live births.
The CSUN mathematics department developed a highly effective structure for the PUMP program, which has had a significant impact on preparing students from underrepresented groups for PhD programs. Over 50 CSUN math majors have enrolled in PhD programs, with high expectations that the CSU Alliance will produce similar results.
A study by the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health found that nearly 10% of Canadian teens gamble online, while 42% report gambling in any form. The study highlights concerns about problem gambling among youth who engage in both online and offline activities.
The Phase 2 clinical trial results indicate that AC6 gene transfer safely increased left ventricular peak -dP/dt and left ventricular ejection fraction in non-ischemic heart failure patients. Symptoms of heart failure were also reduced in participants treated with RT-100.
A study applied WHO's NTD-DQA tool to Ghana's lymphatic filariasis program, finding over 60% of reported data had low accuracy. The researchers suggest ways to improve data quality and highlight the need for a comprehensive assessment to establish appropriate responses.
A study published in JAMA Cardiology found that intracoronary gene transfer increased left ventricular function beyond standard heart failure therapy. The treatment, which involves introducing a specific protein into heart cells, showed significant benefits in patients with nonischemic heart failure.
Researchers identified a single variant in the p53 gene that contributes to increased cancer risk in African-Americans. This variant makes cancer resistant to cell death and may lead to poor prognosis and treatment outcomes.