Researchers found that people living at high altitudes with chronic mountain sickness produce significantly more red blood cells than those without the condition. This is due to an overproduction of the SENP1 enzyme, which boosts levels of other proteins promoting cell division and survival.
A human monoclonal antibody, ZIKV-117, has been isolated that 'neutralizes' the Zika virus in a mouse model and protects against fetal damage. The findings may aid development of an effective anti-Zika vaccine.
A team of researchers discovered that immune T cells have two internal clocks controlling their lifespan and division, shedding new light on how the body regulates immune responses. The discovery also explains how errors in these clocks may lead to immune cell cancers such as leukaemia and lymphoma.
Researchers have found that suppressing a bone-specific protein via its neutralizing antibody can alleviate radiation-induced bone loss in an animal model. Weekly treatment with the protein blockage accelerated DNA repair and protected bone cells from turning into fat cells.
The Lancet Commission estimates the monthly cost of a basic package of 201 essential medicines could be as low as $1-2 per person, addressing universal health coverage goals. However, many countries spend less than this amount on medicines, highlighting the need for additional financing to meet basic healthcare needs.
Researchers at Stanford University School of Medicine have successfully repaired the gene causing sickle cell disease using CRISPR gene editing technology. The corrected human hematopoietic stem cells were then transplanted into mice and showed promise in producing functioning hemoglobin molecules.
A new study found that speech difficulties can predict poor literacy skills at ages 5½ and 8, but effects are mitigated by age. Early language impairment with speech difficulties is a warning sign for significant reading problems.
Researchers developed Bellmania, a system that enables non-experts to optimize dynamic programming algorithms for multicore chips. The system guarantees identical results with faster execution speeds, outperforming human programming in optimization tasks.
Researchers found altered brain pathways in individuals with anorexia and bulimia nervosa, overriding the hypothalamus' drive to eat. This reversal allows their brains to fend off hunger signals, making it harder for them to consume food.
Researchers have developed a tool to visualize network traffic data, allowing analysts to identify key changes and patterns. The tool has been used to inspect network traffic during DDoS attacks and map out malware distribution networks.
Despite decades of improved survival rates, childhood cancer survivors continue to report poor physical and mental health status. Researchers found that patients treated in earlier decades had better health outcomes than those treated in later decades, suggesting a link between access to follow-up care and reported adverse outcomes.
The first of five clinical trials for an investigational Zika vaccine began at the Walter Reed Army Institute of Research, testing the safety and ability of the ZPIV vaccine to generate an immune system response. The Phase 1 trial aims to enroll 75 people aged 18-49 with no prior flavivirus infection.
High physical fitness increases ALS risk before age 45, while individuals with high IQs have increased risk at 56+ years. Individuals with lower BMI (25+) show reduced risk across all ages.
Scientists at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory have identified a network of genes controlling how many flowers and branches are produced in plants, with implications for crop yields and plant diversity. The discovery could lead to new ways to manipulate flowering patterns and improve food production.
A study published in Marketing Science found that leveraging psychological theories on sympathy when drafting a fundraising letter can significantly increase donations. The experiment involved varying the content of fundraising letters and measuring the response, resulting in a 300% increase in donations.
Researchers discovered that breaking waves across a rip channel can close the channel and stop currents from traveling far offshore. However, when waves cease to break, rip currents flow far offshore, posing a greater hazard to swimmers.
Scientists at Berkeley Lab created a single device that can act as both a laser and an anti-laser, enabling flexible operation in optical communication. The device uses parity-time symmetry to balance amplification and absorption, allowing for control over light behavior.
Researchers at Helmholtz Munich have discovered proteins in the blood that can predict incipient type 1 diabetes, even before symptoms appear. The study identified 41 peptides from 26 proteins that distinguish children with autoantibodies from those without, including proteins associated with lipid metabolism.
A study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences found that large fires create a diverse landscape, making it difficult for bark beetles to launch widespread attacks. This variability protects forests from future outbreaks, as trees take decades to reach their preferred size.
Researchers at Georgia Tech develop a targeted therapy using nanoparticles to deliver short interfering RNA that knocks down EGFR protein, leading to massive reduction or complete eradication of ovarian cancer tumors. The treatment, combined with chemotherapy, shows promising results in limited in vivo tests on mice.
Researchers at Binghamton University are using a National Science Foundation grant to study the potential of hardware in detecting malware. By modifying a computer's central processing unit (CPU) chip, the team aims to improve malware detection and provide continuous protection without requiring significant software investment.
Researchers have developed a new approach to prevent gastrointestinal disease caused by Salmonella and other bacteria. The immunization targets a molecule that allows these microbes to scavenge iron, reducing growth and bacterial levels.
Researchers at Columbia University developed a new machine-learning algorithm called TeraStructure to analyze massive genetic data sets. The algorithm can estimate population structure more accurately and twice as fast as current state-of-the-art algorithms, making it potentially useful for identifying disease-causing genetic mutations.
Researchers found that more than a quarter of chikungunya cases were spread within households and half occurred in homes less than 200 meters away. Women are 1.5 times more likely to develop the disease due to increased time spent at home, making them at higher risk of infection.
Researchers found that older bonobos have a decline in refractive power, leading to increased grooming distance and potential social challenges. Long-sightedness may hinder their social lives and daily activities, similar to humans.
Researchers at TU Wien and Germany have developed a method to study the time structure of quantum jumps, which are extremely fast state changes in atoms. The experiment showed that the duration of two different ionization processes can be distinguished, revealing new insights into the physics of ultrashort time scales.
A University of Toronto study found that individuals who prioritize working on their sexual growth are more satisfied with their relationships, whereas those relying on 'sexual destiny' tend to use their sex life as a barometer for relationship success. The research showed that while both groups experience an initial honeymoon phase, t...
Researchers have found significant differences in men and women's brain function, with some genetic variants influencing susceptibility to multiple sclerosis. The study suggests a personalized strategy for prevention and treatment, taking into account gender-specific contributions.
A study by Duke University researchers found that bushmeat hunting is drastically shaping wildlife communities, leading to sharp declines in large mammal populations and increases in rodent and small bird populations. The research suggests that the problem will worsen as the human population in the region increases.
A study of 2386 men with localized prostate cancer found that second opinions did not affect treatment choice or quality of care. Men who sought second opinions due to dissatisfaction with their initial urologist were less likely to receive definitive treatment.
A mouse study found an antibody can soothe raging, nerve-driven poison ivy itch by blocking an immune system protein. The researchers also discovered that blocking another receptor for the protein alleviates itch, paving the way for potential treatments.
Scientists analyzed insect feeding damage to thousands of leaf fossils from Patagonia, Argentina, and found evidence that ecosystems there recovered twice as fast as in the United States. The findings suggest that Patagonia's distance from the impact crater in Mexico may have contributed to the rapid recovery of insect diversity.
Two studies published in PNAS found that checkpoint blockade therapy is only effective for a subset of cancer patients with 'hot' T-cell-inflamed tumors. Researchers identified dendritic cells and tumor antigens as key factors influencing treatment response.
According to a study published in JAMA Pediatrics, hospitalized children who experience cardiac arrest have lower survival rates at night compared to daytime and evening hours. The rate of survival to hospital discharge was about 12% lower during nights than days and evenings.
Researchers have discovered that axolotl salamanders can regenerate their ovaries and produce eggs throughout their lifespan, sparking hopes for regenerative medicine solutions to human infertility. The study found that these salamanders' ability to repair damaged organs could be translated into humans with the help of key signals.
A comprehensive study of Australian natural hazards finds increasing heatwaves and extreme bushfires, but uncertain projections for storms and rainfall. Temperature-related hazards are projected to become more extreme, while others may see increased frequency or intensity, with complex interlinkages between climate extremes.
A new study reveals that consumers may actually be eating more sustainably due to mislabeled seafood. The research found that mislabeled fish are often substituted with species of better conservation status and lower prices.
Researchers found four new chromosome rearrangements unique to the Caucasian population of Glyptotendipes salinus, which are distinct from previously studied populations in Altai and Kazakhstan. The larvae were also found to be twice as short than those in other regions.
A study of 153,000 Australian children found that planned births before optimal time had poorer child development. Children born vaginally at full term had a lower risk of developmental issues compared to those born via planned birth or labor induction.
Researchers use gold nanoparticles with radioactive tracers to target cancer cells' telomeres, shutting down telomerase and halting growth. The method holds promise for delivering a lethal payload to cancer cells, improving treatment outcomes.
Researchers have developed a game-changing blood test that can identify concussions with greater than 90% certainty, using metabolomics to analyze small molecules in the blood. The test is unique and has been proven to be effective in distinguishing concussed patients from non-concussed adolescents.
Despite extensive research supporting mother's own milk as most effective option for low birthweight infants, numerous barriers persist in NICUs. Common issues include ineffective breast pumps, inadequate freezer space, and lack of investment in evidence-based practices to optimize milk volume.
A recent study analyzing seized African elephant tusks confirms that nearly all come from animals killed less than three years prior to seizure. The findings support evidence of widespread poaching and undermine the idea that many tusks are illegally recycled from older stockpiles.
Researchers from Duke University have identified two specific receptors, CXCR2 and LTBR, that play a key role in the development of drug-resistant multiple sclerosis. The study found that targeting these receptors may lead to successful treatment for patients who do not respond to interferon-beta treatment.
A nationwide study of Swedish children reveals a small association between exposure to surgery anesthesia before age 4 and slightly lower school grades at 16. Children with multiple surgeries had lower IQ scores, but the effects were small.
A new multistate research project aims to educate fruit and vegetable growers on agricultural water treatment systems. The project will develop a curriculum to equip growers with knowledge to successfully implement water treatment systems, reducing the risk of foodborne pathogens.
Pitt researchers discovered how oxidative stress accelerates telomere shortening by damaging DNA precursor molecules. This finding offers a new way to inhibit telomerase activity, potentially treating cancer. The study also reveals that oxidative stress can promote telomere lengthening.
A recent study published in Brain and Cognition found that lexical and semantic knowledge related to food is relatively well preserved even in diseases like Alzheimer's and Aphasia Primary Progressive. Food information was processed better than non-food, with caloric foods being more resiliently remembered.
A new study found that around 17% of women diagnosed with breast cancer visit their doctor with a symptom other than a lump. Non-lump symptoms, such as nipple abnormalities and breast pain, were more likely to delay diagnosis compared to those with a breast lump alone.
Research from University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill reveals that regions close to the equator are contributing more to the total global ozone increase due to their proximity to intense sunlight and heat. The study suggests that strategic policy planning is needed to address this issue.
Research suggests that obesity causes chronic inflammation in visceral adipose tissue, which leads to comorbid cardiovascular and metabolic diseases. A new study found that a specific T cell subtype associated with aging accumulates in obese mice, causing insulin resistance and obesity-like inflammation.
The journal Drug Delivery and Translational Research published a special issue on ocular drug delivery, highlighting the need for sustainable release of therapeutics to target tissues in the posterior segment. The market opportunity is significant, with the global pharmaceutical market projected to grow to $23 billion by 2018.
A telephone-based intervention has shown promising results in combating alcohol abuse among active-duty military members. Participants reduced their drinking rates and were more likely to seek treatment after a one-hour personalized intervention session.
Houston Methodist researchers identified a set of immune proteins that facilitate long-lasting immunity against malaria. The study found that elevated production of specific proteins regulating the immune system within 24 hours of infection was required for sustained anti-malaria immunity.
Researchers have developed a method for creating crumpled metal-oxide films using graphene templates, resulting in enhanced properties such as higher charge-carrying capacity and increased reactivity. This process allows for the introduction of wrinkle patterns on metal oxides, overcoming previous limitations.
Researchers have developed two new mouse models of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) that exhibit protein clumping and display clinical features seen in patients. The models may help scientists better understand the disease and develop new treatments.
The transitional climate zone in East Asia experiences significant changes due to global warming, including coastward migration and aridity. Models largely reproduce the TCZ shape, but uncertainty from climate models dominates over emission scenarios.
A study published in Optometry and Vision Science found that protamine solutions perform at least as well as current disinfectant solutions in killing microbes that can cause contact lens-related infections. Protamine's broad spectrum of antimicrobial activity makes it a potential alternative for multipurpose disinfection solutions.
Sodium-oxygen batteries have shown improved cycle life and rechargeability thanks to a highly concentrated electrolyte solution. The new approach stabilizes DMSO in the presence of sodium, resulting in a passivating protective layer that enhances battery performance.
A team of researchers identified three novel proteins that act together on clock neurons to make the clock light responsive. The Quasimodo protein regulates light responses in the fly's clock neurons, controlling the circadian rhythm.
New UCL research reveals that blood vessels play a vital role in telling neural stem cells when and how to reproduce. The study found that preventing blood vessel growth interferes with normal neuron production, causing stem cells to disappear from the brainstem.
Researchers at MIT have demonstrated a comprehensive autonomous mobility system using driverless cars, golf carts, and scooters, all controlled by the same software. The system's modular design allows for easy deployment in new contexts and enables seamless information transfer between vehicles, enhancing overall performance.
Pancreatic cancer is expected to become the third leading cause of death from cancer in the EU by 2017. The number of deaths from pancreatic cancer will overtake breast cancer mortality rates in the EU, with 91,500 estimated deaths next year.
A recent study published in PNAS shows that people apply the rules of their spoken language to sign language, revealing a common structure between speech and sign. Researchers found that participants responded similarly to words and signs with doubling, regardless of linguistic context.
A study found that soiled clinical linens can contaminate surfaces with C. difficile bacteria, even in clean areas of a laundry facility. This highlights the potential risk of environmental contamination and emphasizes the importance of infection prevention in healthcare settings.
The Regenstrief Institute's Center for Biomedical Informatics has developed an open-source medical record system, OpenMRS, to support healthcare delivery in resource-poor environments. The platform has been widely adopted and adapted to address various global health challenges.
Researchers at IDIBELL have found a common cause of multiple resistance in cancer chemotherapy, highlighting the loss of TP53TG1 molecule as a key driver. This discovery has significant implications for understanding treatment failure and may lead to new therapeutic strategies to overcome chemoresistance.
A study of healthy postmenopausal women found that reproductive life events related to sex hormones positively impact cognition and verbal memory. Longer reproductive periods and earlier menarche are inversely linked with cognitive function.
A Canadian study of 421 children with new onset epilepsy found poor families had similar medical courses but less favorable social outcomes as adults. Poor children experienced more failure to graduate, unemployment, and psychiatric diagnoses.
Researchers have found that axolotl salamanders can regenerate significant portions of their adult ovary after injury. This ability could lead to new treatments for pre-mature ovarian failure and reduced fertility in humans.
Researchers have successfully tested a drug that shows early promise in preventing pre-term birth, which is the major cause of death in children under five years old. The drug, (+)-naloxone, was found to provide complete protection against pre-term birth and lead to normal development in infants.
Researchers found microscopic signs of microbial activity in ancient rock formations from South Africa's Barberton greenstone belt, dated at 3.22 billion years old. The discovery suggests life took hold on land as early as 3.2 billion years ago.
A comprehensive model estimates the cost of providing a set of essential medicines to all people in low- and middle-income countries. The model suggests that it would cost $13 to $25 per capita annually to ensure access to these medicines, with total costs ranging from $77 billion to $152 billion.
A study presented at TCT 2016 found the Watchman device had a successful procedure rate of 95.6% with low major complications, including pericardial effusion and embolization. New operators performed 50% of procedures, yet complication rates remained favorable.
Researchers analyzed diamonds from the Denver Museum of Nature & Science and University of British Columbia, gaining a rare look at the processes that led to Earth's crust formation. The study reveals an incredible 3-billion-year journey through tectonic collisions and volcanic eruptions.
Early and aggressive treatment with biologic drugs may halt progressive bone loss in patients with RA. Biologic therapies targeting specific cytokines and signaling pathways show protective effects on the skeleton.
The use of prescription opioids in Canada has increased steadily over the past 20 years, leading to a rise in overdose deaths and addiction. Experts propose several interventions, including guidelines for prescribing, limited dosages, electronic monitoring systems, and access to evidence-based treatment.
A new synthetic binding protein called NS1 monobody has been developed to block the activity of genetic mutations found in nearly 90% of pancreatic cancers. This breakthrough discovery provides insight into how RAS proteins function in cells, potentially leading to new therapeutic approaches for treating cancer.
Researchers found that bacteria that become dependent on their environment for essential nutrients outperform those that can produce them independently. The study's results suggest that this loss of autonomy may be an evolutionary advantage driving adaptation in bacterial populations.
Scientists at the University of Texas at Austin have discovered that separate populations of the same species can diverge in their gene regulation when adapting to their environment. This allows some corals to adapt better to changing conditions, while others struggle with diminished flexibility, leading to stress-induced bleaching.
Researchers at Stanford University have identified several biological markers that can measure the progression of Huntington's disease in non-neural tissues. The team found that levels of mitochondrial DNA were elevated in plasma samples from patients with the disease, and P110 treatment corrected these levels.
A new study found that regions with higher uptake of the program saw a 40% decline in hospitalizations to treat chronic conditions among indigenous Australians. Hospitalization rates dropped from 82.3 per 1,000 in 2009 to 61.2 per 1,000 in 2011.
Researchers found that costly ecological impact assessments failed to protect bats from fatal collisions with spinning blades. The study highlights the challenge of establishing with certainty the effect of major developments before they occur.
Researchers found that genetic background affects response to antibiotics on gut microbiome, insulin sensitivity, tissue inflammation, and metabolic functions in mice. This study suggests that genetic susceptibility plays a role in predicting the usefulness of microbiome therapies for obesity and metabolic disease.
A systematic review of seven studies found that low vitamin D levels are associated with an increased risk of bladder cancer. Vitamin D deficiency may be a key factor in preventing the cells within the bladder from stimulating an adequate immune response to abnormal cells, suggesting a potential mechanism for cancer prevention.
A human antibody that neutralizes Zika virus has been shown to reduce levels of the virus in placental and fetal tissues and decrease fetal disease in a mouse model of Zika infection. The findings suggest that this antibody could be developed to protect pregnant women and others from Zika-related complications.
The Light Plate Apparatus (LPA) brings optogenetics within reach of most biology labs with low-cost, easy-to-use hardware and software. Researchers can now incorporate optogenetics testing into their labs without extensive engineering or programming training.
Researchers at Oregon State University have developed an exceptional sensing device using diatoms and optical sensing, with sensitivity up to 10 million times higher than some common approaches. The technology has endless applications in health monitoring, environmental protection, and other fields.
A special journal issue explores solutions to chronic health problems, highlighting the importance of behavioral science in addressing health disparities. The issue features 24 scientific papers on leveraging behavioral science to promote healthy behavior change among vulnerable populations.
A new study by the University of Utah uses radiocarbon dating and genetic analysis to track the origin of seized ivory, revealing that nearly all shipments come from elephants killed in the past three years. This intelligence can help combat illegal animal product trade and inform strategies for protecting elephant populations.
Studies have shown that most mammals live longer in zoos compared to their wild counterparts, with smaller species exhibiting the greatest increase in longevity. This is likely due to reduced mortality rates from predation and intraspecific competition, which are prevalent in the wild.
A global GMO crop ban would raise food prices by 0.27-2.2% and add nearly a billion tons of CO2 to the atmosphere. This would lead to negative environmental consequences, including forest and pasture conversions that release stored carbon.
Researchers have developed a cheap and quick method to measure root biomass in soil-grown woody plants using electrical capacitance. This technique allows for rapid selection of individuals with optimal traits for breeding, enabling more efficient production of the important biofuel crop shrub willow.
A recent study published in Cancer Research found that emulsifiers in processed foods can alter the gut microbiota in mice, leading to increased tumor development and inflammation. The study suggests that dietary emulsifiers may be partially responsible for the increasing incidence of colorectal cancer worldwide.
A new technique allows researchers to quickly and cheaply generate DNA variants in a particular stretch of DNA, enabling the distinction between harmless and potentially hazardous genetic variations. This technique has the potential to speed up gene catalog creation and aid clinicians in interpreting genetic mutations.
Scientists have developed a new design for solar cells made from perovskite, achieving an average steady-state efficiency of 18.4%. The innovative tandem solar cell combines two types of perovskite into one photovoltaic cell, absorbing nearly the entire spectrum of visible light and outperforming traditional silicon-based solar cells.
A new study of over 14,000 childhood cancer survivors found that while treatments have extended their lifespan, patients do not report better health status. The study, which looked at three decades of therapy, highlights the need for interventions to improve quality of life and health outcomes for these survivors.
Researchers directly determined the relation between bandgap energy and size/shape of individual CsPbBr3 nanocrystals, revealing effective coupling between semiconductor NCs upon close contact. This study provides unique insights into interacting behavior of neighboring NCs and paves the way for designing large quantum structures.
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.