A team of researchers from Sydney's Westmead Institute for Medical Research has discovered a new drug target, Arg1, to combat life-threatening fungal infections. The protein enables Cryptococcus neoformans fungus to establish fatal infections in patients with weakened immune systems.
Researchers have developed a new, simplified technique to produce homogeneous human brain cells in the lab, accelerating drug screening and disease study. This breakthrough allows for cost-effective production of large quantities of brain cells within weeks, enabling wider adoption in basic science and industry.
Patients with bipolar disorder who received bright light therapy at midday experienced a higher remission rate of 68% compared to 22.2% on placebo, with significant reductions in depression scores and improvements in daily functioning.
Researchers aim to reduce comorbid illness in people living with HIV by developing personalized prebiotic and probiotic therapies, targeting gut bacteria balance. The study seeks to attenuate metabolic health issues associated with harmful alcohol use and heart disease.
A recent study published in Geoderma suggests that high-intensity forest land use like grazing can counteract the positive effect of tree planting on reducing flood risk. Researchers found that infiltration rates were higher under trees when the forest was undisturbed, but decreased when sheep grazed underneath
Researchers discovered that stomach acid suppression alters specific gut bacteria in a way that promotes liver injury and progression of three types of chronic liver disease. This association was found in both mouse models and human patients with chronic alcohol abuse, highlighting the potential risks of common acid reflux medications.
A new NIH-funded study finds that biomarkers for ovarian reserve do not predict fertility in older women attempting to conceive. Hormone levels linked to menopause onset were also found to have no association with conception rates.
A randomized controlled trial found ibuprofen to be a better choice for postoperative pain relief in children aged 5-17 after minor orthopedic surgery. The study showed that ibuprofen had fewer adverse effects compared to oral morphine, which was associated with significant side effects such as nausea and drowsiness.
Researchers are exploring the role of microRNAs in brain structure changes associated with neuropsychiatric disorders. The study aims to identify biomarkers in blood and cerebrospinal fluid that correlate with brain variations.
Researchers analyzed how water molecules interact with one another in three types of ice, finding that interactions depend strongly on molecule orientation and ice structure. Insights from this analysis will help understand liquid water and its behavior surrounding biomolecules.
Researchers developed a growth-accommodating implant that can expand in tune with a child's natural growth, decreasing the number of heart surgeries a child must endure. The novel design, inspired by nature, could also be adapted for other growth-accommodating implants throughout the body.
A multi-disciplinary team developed flexible sensors that can sense movement and ingestion in the stomach for at least two days. These devices can harvest energy from the gastrointestinal tract movement and potentially power novel ingestible electronic systems.
A study of 220 Australian children found that a maternal immune-mediated subtype of autism is linked to poorer social outcomes. The researchers identified associations between maternal allergies or asthma and increased severity of social symptoms in children with ASD.
Researchers at NASA and Binghamton University developed a new material, boron nitride nanotubes (BNNTs), which can withstand extreme temperatures and stresses, paving the way for faster planes. The study found BNNTs could handle high amounts of stress and were extremely lightweight.
A new study found that state laws mandating autism coverage by private insurers resulted in a large jump in spending on care for children with autism. Children in states with mandates were more likely to receive treatment, with increased spending on outpatient services and a significant impact on their lives.
Researchers found that neratinib can block the function of Ras oncogenes through an unexpected process, killing non-small cell lung cancer cells resistant to afatinib. The study also discovered that neratinib triggers a seismic event in the plasma membrane, rapidly reducing expression of mutated K- and N-Ras genes.
Andrea Deaton, University of Oklahoma administrator, has been designated as a Society of Research Administrators International Distinguished Faculty. She is recognized for her exemplary teaching, scholarship, and practice in research management and administration.
A global assessment reveals that genetically engineered crops producing insect-killing proteins from Bacillus thuringiensis have led to a fivefold increase in pest resistance cases over the past decade. However, some pests remain suppressed due to factors such as recessive inheritance of resistance and abundant refuges.
Scientists have discovered that the moon's mantle is composed of orthopyroxene, not olivine, contrary to previous assumptions. This finding challenges models for the formation and evolution of the Moon and its differences from Earth.
High levels of inflammation in the brain can reduce neurogenesis and increase cell death, potentially increasing depression risk. Researchers found that a protein called interferon-alpha accelerates these processes.
Scientists at ETH Zurich have developed a method to monitor lipolysis in real-time by analyzing exhaled acetone during exercise. The new breath test can detect when the body starts burning fat, allowing athletes to optimize their training regimen.
A study published in JAMA found that insulin pump therapy among young patients with type 1 diabetes was associated with lower rates of severe hypoglycemia and diabetic ketoacidosis compared to traditional injections. This innovative treatment approach offers improved clinical outcomes for this vulnerable population.
A three-year trial will examine a new transplantation approach to cure patients with sickle cell disease using a matched related donor. The goal is to find a well-tolerated and safe cure for children with the disease.
A recent study by the University of Bristol found that India's methane emissions have shown little growth over the last few years, with accurate reporting by the country's authorities. The research used a combination of observations from the surface, an aircraft, and a satellite to quantify India's methane emissions.
A recent study published in Scientific Reports found that male scientists are more likely to share their research than female scientists. The researchers discovered a significant gender gap in scientific collaboration, with males being over 15% more likely to respond positively to requests for shared work.
The University of Illinois Chicago has established a Center of Excellence in minority health and health disparities research, funded by a $6.75 million NIH grant. The center will investigate social determinants contributing to health disparities in marginalized groups.
Researchers at the University of Edinburgh have made a significant discovery on how a harmful parasite harnesses energy, which could lead to new treatments. The study reveals that targeting a key enzyme linked to metabolism could be an effective way to kill the parasite without harming humans.
A study found that Quebec's system increased access to medicines for working population but came at a cost of $200 more per person than the rest of Canada. The private-public model disproportionately affects low-income individuals and families, with premiums exceeding three percent of household income.
Researchers have discovered that quinoa plants can absorb and store salt in bladder cells, allowing them to thrive on saline soils. This unique adaptation enables the plant to recycle energy from sugar molecules to neutralize toxic salt.
Global childhood obesity rates have increased ten-fold over four decades, with 12-16 million overweight youth in Europe. Early intervention and comprehensive policies are crucial to address this complex disease, which has strong associations with adult mortality and morbidity.
Scientists studying cone snail venom aim to develop new medicines by understanding how the poison works. Researchers have discovered that cone snail toxins can overlap between the immune and central nervous systems in humans, potentially leading to breakthroughs in treatments for neurological diseases like Alzheimer's.
The University of Illinois Chicago is conducting a $3 million study on inflammation's role in polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), which affects one in seven women. The research aims to test whether nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug salsalate can improve ovarian function and reduce inflammation.
A University of Houston psychologist explores how social media influences alcohol consumption among college students, finding that heavy drinkers overestimate others' drinking and misperceive what's normal. A new intervention uses social media to provide personalized feedback and reduce excessive drinking.
Atrial fibrillation patients can use My AF app to access condition information, treatment options, and lifestyle tips. The app also enables face-to-face consultations with healthcare professionals. Meanwhile, AF Manager app helps healthcare providers import patient data, suggest personalized treatment plans, and share notes with patients.
A new study by Imperial College London and the World Health Organization found that childhood and adolescent obesity rates increased tenfold over four decades, from less than 1% in 1975 to nearly 6% in girls and 8% in boys in 2016. The number of obese children and adolescents is expected to surpass those who are underweight by 2022. He...
A large-scale study found that patients who receive antibiotics before certain types of low-risk operations have the same risk for developing antibiotic-resistant infections as those who don't. The study analyzed data from over 22,000 patients and found no association between prophylactic antibiotic use and postoperative antibiotic res...
Researchers found that ceritinib, an FDA-approved drug for ALK-rearranged non-small cell lung cancer, also inhibits previously unknown targets. The study shows promise for repurposing the drug to target other cancers with networked alterations.
A recent study reveals that education and knowledge have little impact on individual behavior when it comes to major issues like the environment and personal health. Conservationists were found to behave in a marginally 'greener' manner, but with surprisingly modest differences compared to economists and medics.
A study published in JAMA found that stopping behavioral interventions aimed at reducing inappropriate antibiotic prescribing led to an increase in such prescribing practices, despite previous effectiveness of the interventions. The randomized trial, which included 47 primary care practices and 248 clinicians, showed a decrease in appr...
A DNA variant in the DNMT3B gene is associated with an increased risk of nicotine dependence, as well as heavier smoking and a higher likelihood of developing lung cancer. The study, which analyzed over 38,600 participants, provides new insights into the genetic factors influencing addiction.
The participation of women in the labor force has nearly doubled since 1950, benefiting everyone, including men, with average wages increasing as a result. Women bring important skills and perspectives to businesses, making them more productive and competitive.
Two mass extinction events led to the survival of a low number of 'weedy' species that spread globally, affecting ecosystems and biogeography. The findings shed light on modern high extinction rates and potential consequences for current biodiversity loss.
Researchers have identified adenosine receptor A2a as a potential target for reducing dysfunctional blood vessel development in the eye. Blocking this receptor has been shown to inhibit pathological angiogenesis and promote healthy blood vessel formation, offering new hope for treating diabetic retinopathy.
Experts recommend quality measures for preterm birth, preeclampsia, cesarean birth, and other high-risk pregnancy complications. The measures aim to reduce maternal and infant mortality rates and improve healthcare outcomes.
Researchers publish high-resolution data on particle density in equatorial Atlantic and Pacific Ocean, finding that particle density increases again in 300-600 meters of water depth due to daily migratory behavior of plankton organisms. This challenges previous assumptions about the flow of particles into the deep sea.
Researchers analyzed 56 high-quality studies on dementia to identify gaps in knowledge, focusing on caregiver behavior, environment, and progression of disease. The study aims to inform treatment design and interventions to reduce behavioral and psychological symptoms in dementia patients.
A new CAMH study found that people unaware of their memory loss are more likely to progress to Alzheimer's disease. Those aware of memory problems are unlikely to develop dementia. The study used PET brain scans to identify specific brain regions affected in impaired illness awareness.
Researchers in Japan have developed a wavelength-selective plasmonic metamaterial absorber to enhance the generation of spin currents from heat produced in the mid-infrared regime. The unique combination enables stronger light absorption and shows excellent tenability of these metamaterials' resonance wavelengths.
Researchers from Florida Atlantic University found that hammerhead sharks use different body movements to swim at the same speed, despite varying head shapes and sizes. The study revealed a double oscillating system in their movement, allowing for increased sensory perception and scanning of the environment.
Researchers identified genes linked to insulin secretion, immunity, and ultraviolet protection that showed adaptive selection in African dogs. The study found functional verification of ADGRE1's role in providing host immunity to Plasmodium infection.
Researchers at Kent State University are working with NASA Glenn Research Center to develop a new method for identifying and monitoring cyanobacterial harmful algal blooms in Lake Erie. Using hyperspectral imaging, the team aims to improve water quality and reduce the impact of these toxic cyanobacteria on local communities.
Researchers from King's College London predict that care homes will become the most common place to die, with over 230,000 annual deaths predicted by 2040. This increase is driven by a rise in deaths occurring at home and a decline in hospital deaths.
Researchers prepared porous MoS2 with high specific surface area using APTES-modified SiO2 hard template and different sulfur sources. The resulting materials exhibited good performance in hydrodeoxygenation (HDO) of bio-oil, a promising route for upgrading this liquid fuel.
Researchers developed improved mini brain organoids from stem cells, closely mimicking human brain structure. They found critical similarities between the organoids and real brain tissue and identified effective drugs to block Zika's entry into the brain, offering new avenues for studying neurological disorders
Army researchers have discovered subtle variations in the dynamic behavior of materials under fatigue cycles, including shifts in natural frequency. The study aims to develop new sensing techniques for predicting service life and enabling self-responsive, damage-adaptive structures.
Research suggests that perinatal BPA exposure can lead to reduced gut bacterial diversity and elevated gut permeability, resulting in chronic colon and liver inflammation. Early correction of gut dysbiosis induced by environmental toxins may reduce the risk for chronic diseases later in life.
Researchers mapped 27 types of illegal activities in Brazilian protected areas, with vegetation suppression and hunting being the most common. Human population density and accessibility were key factors influencing these activities, highlighting the need for targeted conservation efforts.
A team of scientists has identified a specific group of giant bacteria, Epulopiscium, that dominate the intestines of Red Sea surgeonfish and enable them to digest different types of algae. The discovery sheds light on the basis of surgeonfish diversity and provides a valuable genetic resource for developing algal-based biofuels.
A study published in JAMA found that biomarkers indicating diminished ovarian reserve were not associated with reduced fertility in women aged 30-44 attempting natural conception. Low AMH or high FSH levels were not linked to lower fecundability or cumulative probability of conceiving.
A new study reveals that mass extinctions have predictable consequences, leading to low diversity and the emergence of dominant species. The researchers analyzed nearly 900 animal species between 260-175 million years ago and found a global pattern of 'disaster faunas'.