A new study suggests that pretreating red blood cells with nitric oxide can reduce the risk of pulmonary hypertension, a life-threatening condition associated with transfusions. Pretreated RBCs showed improved survival and function after transfusion, outperforming stored RBCs not exposed to nitric oxide.
A new U-M vaccine using siderophore molecules prevents E. coli growth in mouse bladders and kidneys, offering hope for a treatment against UTIs. The approach has shown success in mice but is still years away from human trials.
Researchers found that bees consider multiple factors, such as strong odour and visual appearance, when deciding on flowers to visit. Bees also form memories of previous experiences and receive feedback from their nest to inform their foraging decisions.
Chicks are less honest when begging for food in family groups with conflict, research by University of Oxford scientists found. Analysis of over 100 studies across 60 bird species showed that chicks exaggerate their need for food if parents are likely to breed again in the future.
A new study uses machine learning algorithms to classify patients into one of three groups: suicidal, mentally ill but not suicidal, or neither. The tool achieved up to 93% accuracy in identifying suicidal behavior and has the potential to support clinicians and caregivers in suicide prevention.
Researchers analyzed over 150 years of genetic data to gain insight into the genetic diversity of ataxias, a neurodegenerative disorder affecting movement and balance. The study sheds light on cellular pathways and protein networks in ataxia, potentially leading to new diagnostic and treatment options.
A new study of over 200,000 cancer survivors found that those diagnosed at younger ages have a higher risk of death from heart disease. Cancer survivors diagnosed between 15-19 years old had a 4.2 times higher risk compared to the general population.
Researchers have developed a method to improve the performance of cellulose nanocrystals, making them suitable for sustainable materials, biomedical applications and green manufacturing. The improved nanocrystals can be used in dental regenerative medicine, replacing synthetic materials with an environmentally friendly alternative.
Researchers identified three HR practices that improve clinical work behaviors, leading to better patient outcomes. These include a CEO who champions the HR department, an HR director with a compelling vision for hospital performance, and highly competent HR employees capable of adapting HR systems.
An international team has developed a new method to analyze RNA structures linked to cancer. The research aims at understanding how four-stranded RNA structures called G-quadruplexes affect cellular processes such as RNA splicing, which is essential for producing proteins.
Researchers have identified a human antibody that prevents Zika virus infection in pregnant mice and protects adult mice. The antibody also prevented damage to the placenta and fetuses, suggesting it may be used to prevent Zika-related birth defects.
Researchers used CT scans to investigate the origin of pre-mammalian therapsids' distinctive canines, finding they were not used for fighting but for display behavior. The study suggests sexual selection played a crucial role in the evolution of mammals, dating back 300 million years.
A team of scientists, led by prof. Savvas Savvides, used integrative structural biology to study how GIF, a protein secreted by the Orf virus, inactivates key cytokines of the host immune system. The research reveals unique strategies that viruses use to counter antiviral responses and highlights great potential for innovative therapies.
A study in CMAJ found that closure of planned obstetric services in BC did not affect rates of adverse outcomes or serious adverse outcomes during labor and delivery. Higher-risk deliveries occurred at larger hospitals before closures took place, explaining the lack of impact on event rates.
The Walter Reed Army Institute of Research has begun a Phase 1 human clinical trial to test the safety and immunogenicity of the ZPIV vaccine, developed using an inactivated flavivirus vaccine platform. The trial involves 75 healthy adults and is part of the US Department of Defense response to the ongoing Zika virus outbreak.
TGen researchers discovered that blocking nerve growth factor (NGF) signaling can reduce the potential of pancreatic cancer cells to invade surrounding nerves, leading to pain. The study found that NGF and its receptor TRKA are associated with perineural invasion, a key mechanism in the progression of pancreatic cancer.
Researchers modeled massive star formation using high-performance computers, discovering episodic luminosity bursts that outshine the collective effect of 100,000 Suns. These bursts are thought to be caused by the migration of dense clumps through accretion disks, offering new insights into the birth process of massive stars.
Research reveals that individuals with medical conditions causing low oxytocin levels perform poorly on empathy tasks. Oxytocin replacement may improve psychological well-being in those living with low levels.
A group of circulating tumour cells has been found to be linked to the spread of prostate cancer. The cells' ability to migrate and invade through the body makes them a promising marker for predicting cancer spread. This discovery could potentially be used to monitor patients and make informed treatment decisions.
Research shows that a moderately reduced maternal food intake can accelerate the rate of aging in offspring's hearts. The study used baboons and found signs of impaired heart function at five years of life, equivalent to twenty human years.
A study of over 2,000 people in the UK found that two thirds worry about emotional impact and cancer treatments, while ethnic minorities are more likely to worry about social consequences.
Research suggests that adapting people's gut bacteria through antibiotics, probiotics, or faecal transplants may increase the benefits of new immunotherapy drugs for treating cancer. Patients with advanced melanoma who had greater diversity in their gut bacteria were more likely to respond to immunotherapy treatment.
A recent study found that nurses working the night shift and experiencing workplace incivility are more likely to consider leaving their jobs. However, targeted interventions such as team-building initiatives and private informal meetings can reduce these intentions.
Research suggests that maternal B12 deficiency during pregnancy may predispose children to metabolic problems such as type-2 diabetes. The study found that babies born to mothers with low B12 levels had higher leptin levels, which can lead to insulin resistance and an increased risk of type-2 diabetes.
A record hot year globally in 2015 could soon become an average year by 2025 if carbon emissions continue to rise, according to new research. The 'new normal' for global average temperatures is expected to be locked in by 2040, but immediate action on carbon emissions can prevent extreme seasons from becoming the norm at regional levels.
Researchers found that substantial weight gain increases the risk of obesity-related cancers, particularly for men who go from a healthy weight to morbid obesity. The study suggests that identifying people at high risk of developing cancer due to weight gain could help prevent cases and improve public health.
New research found that seizures and tumor location are key predictors of survival for patients over 70 with brain tumors. The study also revealed that those with higher pressure on the brain tend to have shorter survival times.
Scientists at MIPT create ultrastrong material by applying high pressure to multiwall carbon nanotubes, forming bonds between them. The resulting material retains the durability of original nanotubes, making it suitable for harsh conditions.
The International Osteoporosis Foundation presented five researchers with prestigious Young Investigator Research Awards for their notable osteoporosis research. The award winners were selected from 168 abstracts and received a prize of $1000, a certificate, and the opportunity to present their work at a high-profile session.
The implementation of Fracture Liaison Services (FLS) is crucial to identify and treat high-risk patients with osteoporosis, reducing the risk of secondary fractures. Studies have shown that FLS can significantly increase treatment rates and prevent secondary osteoporotic fractures.
Researchers found a combination of immunotherapy options improves overall survival and lowers the risk of life-threatening events in late-stage melanoma patients. PD-1 inhibitors were associated with the lowest risk of life-threatening events, making them a promising first-line therapy option.
Scientists from Granada and Valencia universities developed a new molecular method to detect Toxoplasma gondii in ham, finding the parasite's prevalence varied between 0% and 32.35%, with some samples being infective. The study suggests freezing ham before curing can eliminate the parasite faster.
A Northwestern University study found that female faculty in STEM disciplines have similar collaboration patterns to their male counterparts, but are underrepresented in large teams and international collaborations. The research highlights the need for a level playing field to address unequal opportunities and promote diversity in STEM.
Tropical Storm Meari is forecast to intensify in the western Pacific Ocean, with a high chance of reaching 85 knots (97mph). The storm's organized low-level circulation and favorable environment will contribute to its steady growth.
A new methodology in the agri-food sector has been recognized with an international award for its potential to reduce resource consumption and improve productivity. The methodology uses a mathematical model based on Petri nets to optimize crop production and processing.
A Northwestern University study found that female faculty in STEM disciplines, particularly genomics, face challenges in collaboration patterns and career advancement. Despite having similar collaborator numbers, females tend to return to the same collaborators less often than males.
A study found that Transcendental Meditation produces unique brain activity patterns, including high default mode network activation and theta waves, differing from eyes-closed rest. Extensive practice duration does not impact frequency of Transcendental Consciousness experiences.
A new study found that patients with rare primary immunodeficiency disorders may be susceptible to serious side effects from the rubella vaccine. The study analyzed data from 14 patients and found that 7 had evidence of persistent rubella virus in their granulomas, leading to skin damage and ulcers.
A new analysis of 1981 patients with lower gastrointestinal symptoms found that the new criteria would miss nearly 20% of colorectal cancers. The study suggests that alarm features indicative of colorectal cancer are common among the general population, limiting their accuracy in predicting a diagnosis.
A WSU researcher has developed a modified viral vector that reduces the risk of cancer cells and can be used for multiple blood diseases. The new delivery system is being translated into a stem cell gene therapy to treat a life-threatening immunodeficiency in newborns.
Researchers found that post-acute care, specifically nursing home factors, had a significant impact on long-term recovery for hip fracture patients. Higher-level physician staffing and lower occupancy rates were associated with better outcomes.
Research reveals that isolates of Helicobacter pullorum from Indian poultry markets are resistant to multiple classes of antibiotics, posing a potential public health risk. The study suggests that the bacterium could be transmitted from poultry to humans, highlighting the need for increased awareness and regulation.
A study by University of Pennsylvania researchers found that stressed rats drink more alcohol due to altered dopamine signaling and changes in the brain's reward system. The team's findings have implications for understanding the root causes of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and developing new treatments.
Dr. Michael E. Charness has made significant contributions to understanding the effects of alcohol on the nervous system and has developed drugs that block alcohol toxicity. He is a leading expert in fetal alcohol spectrum disorders and has cared for patients with neurological disorders throughout his career.
Research suggests that darker tones in food packaging are associated with healthier choices, while light tones may be perceived as less tasty. The study tested consumer reactions to packaged products of varying colors, finding that health-conscious individuals were more likely to associate light colors with inferior taste.
Compost bedded barns showed significantly fewer cases of claw lesions, such as foot rot and white line disease, compared to freestall cubicle barns. Daily aeration and fresh bedding also improved social interaction among dairy cows.
Research from University College London found that older adolescents and adults can learn certain thinking skills more effectively than younger people. Non-verbal reasoning skills can be readily trained and do not represent an innate ability.
A recent study found that 19% of Twitter election-related tweets were created by social robots, distorting the online discussion and potentially polarizing it. The research also highlighted the sophisticated tactics used by 'master puppeteers' to create fake profiles and manipulate public opinion.
Breast cancer cells may use mesenchymal stem cells in bone marrow to spread to bone tissue. A study using a 3D scaffold model found that tumor-derived factors can promote maturation of MSCs into bone cells, with mechanical compression stimulating further bone development.
Finnish researchers found that a melatonin receptor gene influences shift workers' ability to adapt to disrupted daily rhythms. A common variation in the MTNR1A gene is linked to job-related exhaustion experienced by shift workers.
Researchers at Rice University and the University of Graz successfully drove single-molecule nanoroadsters using light, demonstrating a new method for propulsion. The vehicles, made of 112 atoms, reached a top speed of 23 nanometers per hour and showed wavelength sensitivity.
A Michigan State University professor suggests that China's Belt and Road Initiative (B&R) could be a superhighway of environmental progress with global cooperation. The initiative aims to connect 65 countries and shape world economies, but it also creates routes filled with opportunity for sustainability advancements.
NASA's Magnetospheric Multiscale mission (MMS) is breaking records with a Guinness World Record for the highest altitude fix of a GPS signal, reaching 43,500 miles above Earth. The four MMS spacecraft maintain tight formations to map magnetic reconnection and study phenomena around the universe.
A team of researchers has identified a network within the brain that may play a role in maintaining human consciousness. The study, published in Neurology, found that two areas in the cortex were significantly connected to the brainstem region involved in arousal and awareness.
Scientists at MIT and Harvard University developed a new imaging technique called LASE microscopy, which uses tiny particles to create sharper images of deep tissue and cells. The particles emit laser light when stimulated by a laser beam, resulting in higher-resolution images.
Researchers reconstructed the body cavity volume in over 120 tetrapods and found that herbivores have twice as large bodies as carnivores of similar size. The study reveals a fundamental difference in morphological principles between mammals and other tetrapods, with possible implications for respiratory systems.
A five-year study in Tanzania aims to determine whether combining diabetes and hypertension screening with HIV screening will increase HIV testing and care. The integrated approach is expected to improve health outcomes and reduce costs, addressing growing global epidemics of HIV, diabetes, and hypertension.
Researchers challenge the widely held belief that Alzheimer's disease originates in the temporal lobe by identifying the basal forebrain region as a critical area of degeneration. The study shows that degeneration in this region predicts subsequent spread to other brain areas, opening new avenues for detection and intervention.
Disney Research has developed a VR360 player with enhanced haptic feedback, allowing users to customize and personalize sensations. The application enables full-body sensations and a wide range of 'feel effects' that can be triggered by user movements or biofeedback.
Physicists at the University of Chicago have confirmed a decades-old theory describing continuous phase transitions. The team observed a quantum phase transition in gaseous cesium atoms, demonstrating the Kibble-Zurek mechanism for both space and time.