Participants were highly adherent to using the gel before and after sex (93%) as they were to taking daily oral Truvada (94%). The study found that most participants used the gel 80% of the time or more, suggesting a potential alternative for HIV prevention.
The Xenopus laevis genome shows that hybridization between two extinct species led to a doubling of genes and the emergence of tetraploidy. Researchers found nearly a thousand non-functional genes, revealing insights into ancient genome duplication events in vertebrates.
The discovery of Qilinyu, a fossilized placoderm with a three-part complex jaw, confirms the evolution of this trait within the placoderm system. The findings suggest that the emergence of jaws in vertebrates marked a significant turning point in early vertebrate evolution.
An international team of scientists has created a three-dimensional atomic-level image of the human cannabinoid receptor 1 (CB1), revealing an expansive and complicated binding pocket network. The findings have potential to guide drug design for pain, inflammation, obesity, fibrosis, and other indications.
Researchers found that providing GlcNAc supplement to Pngl-deficient flies prevents death, with nearly 70% surviving to adulthood. The study suggests a potential diet-based treatment for the rare disease NGLY1 deficiency.
Researchers have successfully engineered tobacco plants to manufacture therapeutic levels of artemisinin, a plant-derived compound used to treat malaria. The breakthrough could lead to cost-effective delivery methods, such as freeze-dried lettuce powder, to make the drug more accessible to those in need.
Researchers found no association between sex and risk of kidney damage when analyzing studies that took patient characteristics into account. Women are more likely to develop kidney damage following cardiovascular surgery, but this link is disputed when adjusting for comorbidities.
A new modeling framework allows scientists to study the impact of certainty on individual beliefs, shedding light on why people reject scientific consensus. The research reveals that underlying beliefs can influence interpersonal networks and shape views on controversial topics.
Researchers discovered that cyanobacteria form compacted DNA structures transiently before cell division, similar to eukaryotes. The compacted DNA includes polyphosphate bodies that may regulate phosphate supply for DNA synthesis.
Research suggests doctors are more likely to prescribe growth hormones for slow-growing children if the child's family requests it or if they believe in its intangible benefits. This raises concerns about access, overuse, and cost of life-enhancing products, which can be expensive and create financial burdens.
A recent study by Emory Vaccine Center-India collaboration reveals insights into CD8 T cells' role in fighting dengue virus infection. The research shows that these immune cells expand massively but keep cytokine production under control, retaining the ability to kill virus-infected cells.
A team of researchers discovered that the tiny yellow-striped Amazonian frog has a special skin chemical that allows it to live comfortably among leaf-cutting ants. The frogs' skin extracts mimic the ants' own chemical signals, preventing attacks and enabling coexistence.
Researchers used electronic health records and genome sequences to identify two genetic variations linked to age-related hearing impairment. The study found novel variations near the ISG20 gene and within TRIOBP, a gene previously associated with another type of hearing loss.
Researchers have identified a mechanism by which tumors recruit bone mesenchymal stem cells and convert them into cancer-associated fibroblasts, facilitating tumor progression. Basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) signaling plays a crucial role in this process, suggesting new therapeutic targets for suppressing tumor growth.
A genome-wide association study has identified two regions of the genome associated with ulcerative colitis only in people of African descent. The study found unique, African-specific loci and overlapping genome-wide associations for ulcerative colitis and IBD in African-Americans and other populations.
Researchers developed a novel imaging probe that can detect hypoxic tumors with high specificity and sensitivity. The probe uses bioluminescence resonance energy transfer to generate NIR light only in HIF-active hypoxic cells, reducing off-target signals and increasing tumor-to-normal tissue ratio.
Researchers have created a low-cost, high-energy lithium-ion battery anode material using diatomaceous earth, paving the way for more sustainable and efficient electric vehicle batteries. The discovery could lead to improved adoption of electric vehicles by reducing costs and increasing energy storage capacity.
A team of researchers at Colorado State University has developed a superomniphobic tape that can be applied to any surface, giving it liquid-repelling properties. The tape's potential impact is extraordinary, with applications in various civilian, commercial, and military fields.
A new study reveals the detailed structure of the human CB1 receptor, a key target for cannabinoids. The findings provide clues to mechanisms by which certain chemicals produce longer-lasting effects and offer guidance for designing novel medications that specifically target portions of the receptor.
The Colorado River Delta has benefited from recent engineered spring floods, with bird diversity increasing by 43% in restoration areas. Groundwater recharge has also improved, recharging the aquifer for irrigation and benefiting native plant species.
A study by Elsafti et al details the struggles faced by Syrian children, including lack of access to immunization programs, formal education, and healthcare. The study finds that two-thirds of examined children showed signs of infectious diseases, raising concerns about malnutrition and preventable infections.
A mathematical analysis has led to a formula describing the movement of DNA inside living human cells, enabling researchers to study the 3D architecture of the genome. The findings provide key insights into how genes are accessed by cellular machinery.
Researchers found that listening to music while engaging in high-intensity interval training (HIIT) improved attitudes towards the exercise regimen. Participants who repeated HIIT sessions with music reported enjoying it and being more likely to participate again.
A new study reveals that temperature-induced increases in cell division are the primary driver of phytoplankton blooms. The analysis of nearly 13 years of data from an in situ device found a direct correlation between temperature and cell division rates, with losses due to viruses and predators following closely behind.
A study of 522 children found that those born to parents with schizophrenia or bipolar disorder scored higher on a behavior checklist and were at increased risk for anxiety, ADHD, and neurocognitive problems. The children also came from families with lower social status and more adverse life events.
A study published in PLOS Genetics identified two genetic variations linked to age-related hearing impairment, shedding light on the disorder's biological basis. The research used a large cohort of patients' electronic medical records and genome sequences to discover these genetic links.
Argonne researchers posit way to locally circumvent Second Law of Thermodynamics, predicting conditions under which entropy might decrease on the microscopic level, potentially enabling a local quantum perpetual motion machine.
Researchers examine how second person pronouns in Spanish are used to communicate shifts in various social identities, highlighting the dynamic nature of identity negotiation. The study confirms that aspects of our identities are often fleeting, invoked for a purpose and then negotiated as conversations progress.
TB research suggests infection causes autoimmunity, where immune system reacts incorrectly to its own lung tissue. This can lead to the bacteria spreading through coughing, making the person highly infectious.
A recent review and analysis of published studies found low-to-moderate evidence that dietary and exercise interventions can improve physical function and quality of life in older adults with obesity. The study included 405 adults aged over 60 years, highlighting the need for well-designed trials to address obesity in this population.
A study published in Cell Metabolism found that varying oxygen levels can reset the circadian clock of mice, which could inform how airlines moderate cabin air pressure. The research also suggests potential benefits for humans, including alleviating jetlag and improving air travel comfort.
Researchers developed a smart wheelchair navigation system that incorporates enhanced safety features and warning systems to assist users more effectively. The system can detect emotional distress or drowsiness in the user, provide warnings, and monitor vital signs for diagnostic purposes.
New faults in Mt. Aso's magma chamber and volcanic cones alter spatial and mechanical properties of the volcano, potentially changing its eruption dynamics. The study suggests that the 2016 Kumamoto earthquake accelerated the timing of a future eruption by creating new channels for magma venting.
Researchers from Stanford and Oxford have created a novel perovskite solar cell design that converts sunlight into electricity with an efficiency of 20.3 percent, rivaling silicon solar cells on the market today.
Researchers at ICFO have successfully imaged molecular bond breakup in acetylene using ultrafast mid-IR laser source and reaction microscope. The team observed a proton escaping the molecule, providing unprecedented insight into chemical reactions.
Researchers identified amino acid valine as crucial for hematopoietic stem cell maintenance. A valine-free diet with gradual reintroduction led to successful long-term engraftment of healthy donor cells in mice.
Scientists created a coarse-grained model of the Cowpea Chlorotic Mottle Virus (CCMV) capsid and applied forces to it. This allowed them to see how the capsid broke apart, providing clues about its assembly process. The study reveals that weaker protein-protein contacts assemble first, followed by stronger ones.
Scientists have tracked a particular kind of solar wave as it swept upward from the sun's surface through its atmosphere, adding to our understanding of how solar material travels throughout the sun. The study provides a novel tool for scientists to study the atmosphere of the sun and sheds light on the coronal heating problem.
The study provides a three-dimensional image of cannabinoid receptor 1, which is found to be embedded in the surface of many nerve cells. This discovery could explain how pain medications meant to mimic cannabis use without the 'high' can cause unintended side effects.
Early intervention services are being developed or expanded in 48 US states to improve treatment outcomes for young people with psychosis. Coordinated specialty care (CSC) programs use a team of specialists to create personalized treatment plans, resulting in improved symptoms, interpersonal relationships, and quality of life.
Researchers found a way to break up p97 complex into its subunits using ASPL protein, which could be a promising new approach to kill proliferating cancer cells. This discovery may lead to the identification of smaller molecules that can disrupt the structure of p97 in a targeted manner.
A new NYU study found that only a small fraction of fast-food consumers make healthy choices due to current calorie labeling. The researchers recommend improving labeling to boost the odds of diners making healthy choices, including making calorie information more visible and providing average daily recommended intake.
Researchers developed a new type of nanoparticle vaccine that effectively vaccinated mice against one dengue virus serotype. The vaccine targets only one strain, but its development could pave the way for vaccines against all four serotypes, potentially offering better protection against life-threatening disease.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine have developed a modified cancer drug that enhances its ability to reach the brain, improving delivery and reducing toxicity. The new compound shows promise in treating brain tumors by targeting tumor metabolism and evading immune cells.
Parents of children with cancer find whole exome sequencing useful for understanding the cause of their child's cancer, relieving guilt and providing reassurance for other family members. The study also highlights the importance of considering broader benefits beyond clinical actionability when deciding to disclose genetic information.
Research at Oregon State University shows that Oregon's implementation of coordinated care organizations improved expectant moms starting prenatal care on time. The study also found a small narrowing of the gap in prenatal care quality between Medicaid beneficiaries and those with private insurance.
Researchers found that African Americans have a stronger immune response to bacterial infections compared to Europeans, partly due to genetic differences. This response is linked to reduced susceptibility to autoimmune inflammatory diseases such as Crohn's disease and tuberculosis.
A Texas A&M professor developed a new approach to analyzing impediments to leisure activities, identifying key factors such as fear of crime, poor health, and lack of social ease. The paper aimed to resolve measurement issues and advance understanding of leisure services.
A UCLA-led team reports the discovery of blue-light inhibitor of cryptochromes (BICs) that regulate plant growth, growing Arabidopsis plants at least twice as tall without cryptochromes. BICs likely have counterparts in human circadian clocks and other organisms.
Researchers created a simple rule of thumb to help predators weigh the pros and cons of sharing information about prey locations. The model suggests that cooperation is beneficial when it takes longer to find and consume prey, such as large buffalo or rich fishing grounds.
The study demonstrates the effectiveness of activity-based probes in detecting early signs of atherosclerosis. By targeting cysteine cathepsins, the probes image activated macrophage populations using optical and PET/CT methods, providing real-time monitoring of disease progression and therapeutic responses.
University of Florida researchers found a trio of mutations in a genetic switch that controls limb development, leading to the loss of legs in snakes. The study reveals that pythons and boa constrictors retain rudimentary leg structures, while completely limbless snakes show more extensive decay of the Sonic hedgehog enhancer.
The Cedars-Sinai Board of Governors Regenerative Medicine Institute is conducting the first human trial of a novel combined stem cell and gene therapy for ALS patients. The therapy aims to preserve leg mobility by providing supportive cells that produce glial cell line derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF).
Researchers at the University of Vienna have made a groundbreaking discovery on how cells regulate autophagy, a vital process for maintaining cellular balance. The study shows that autophagy is tightly controlled in space and time by two independent coordinators, which enables the activation of autophagy when precise requirements are met.
A recent study found that 60% of children with ADHD persist with symptoms until their mid-20s, and 41% experience both symptoms and impairment as young adults. The researchers suggest using a combination of parent and self-reports, along with an adjusted symptom threshold for adulthood, to accurately diagnose ADHD in adults.
Researchers found that a mediocre Italian soup started the meal improved subjects' overall liking for the pasta dish compared to a high-quality one. The study suggests restaurants can improve customer experiences by varying dishes by cuisine type to avoid negative responses.
Researchers found that uncertainty about social status may be harmful to top-ranking monkeys but offer opportunities for low-rank monkeys. This study suggests that social hierarchy and rank uncertainty are key risk factors for chronic diseases.
Researchers at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital discovered that toxic peptides from ALS and FTD can incapacitate membrane-less organelles, leading to tissue degeneration. The study provides new insights into the molecular mechanisms of these debilitating diseases.
A recent study published in Sports Medicine found that exchanging sedentary behavior with even low-intensity physical activity reduces adipose tissue and enhances cardiorespiratory fitness in 6-8-year-old children. The intensity of physical activity is crucial for the association with enhanced cardiovascular fitness.
Researchers developed computer simulations demonstrating how lasers attack bacterial colonies, suggesting benefits for oral debridement and periodontal treatment. The study confirms the effectiveness of 810 nm diode lasers and 1064 nm Nd:YAG lasers in killing bacteria with minimal heating of surrounding tissue.