Researchers at Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution identified an extensive conserved group of bacteria within healthy humpback whales' blow. The discovery could serve as a framework for monitoring the health of this species and others, with potential implications for disease detection and conservation.
Researchers have uncovered secrets of how bacteria turn off protein biosynthesis to conserve energy and survive under stressful conditions. Hibernating ribosomes, found in Gram-positive bacteria like Staph, help them survive by suppressing translation, making them a potential target for new antibiotics.
Taking prescribed sleep medications for insomnia increases risk of falling in older adults, according to researchers. Non-drug approaches like cognitive behavioral therapy may be more effective and safer.
A study published in PLOS Medicine found that using cystatin C with creatinine to estimate GFR for chronic kidney disease diagnosis resulted in increased healthcare costs without improved risk prediction. The test led to a higher number of patients being reclassified to more advanced CKD, requiring more frequent monitoring and referrals.
Research at Sam Houston State University found that home-brewing techniques using unwashed poppy seeds can produce lethal doses of morphine. The study reveals the potential danger of consuming moderate volumes of poppy seed tea, which can lead to overdose or death.
A new University of Michigan study reveals the NFL's transformation from a leader in avoiding concussion discussion to one that now leads the charge. The league has implemented significant changes, including creating expert-only committees and advocating for legislation, to address the issue, which had previously damaged its public image.
Researchers at the University of California, Irvine have been awarded a federal grant to develop a genetically engineered mouse model that more closely mirrors human Alzheimer's disease. The new mouse will enable superior testing of therapies designed to slow or prevent the disease, according to experts.
Researchers found that menopause triggers metabolic changes in the brain, increasing the risk of Alzheimer's disease. The study used PET imaging to measure glucose metabolism in the brains of 43 healthy women aged 40-60, revealing lower levels of glucose metabolism in post-menopausal women.
A new study from Michigan Medicine found that women who undergo a bilateral mastectomy with reconstruction are 7.8 times more likely to miss work than those who opt for lumpectomy and radiation therapy.
Researchers from UBC Okanagan have developed a novel approach to control odor and pathogens in anaerobic digestion, reducing sulfuric gases by 93% and pathogenic fecal coliforms by 83%. The technique uses common commercial chemicals and has minimal annual costs of $10,000.
The SciShops.eu project analyzes characteristics of science shops to develop new ones addressing subjects like women and science, sustainability, and community problems. The goal is to create a collaborative effort between researchers, civil organizations, and citizens.
Scientists have successfully developed a zero-index waveguide compatible with current silicon photonic technologies, allowing them to observe standing waves with infinitely-long wavelengths. This breakthrough could enable the creation of ultra-compact optical devices and pave the way for new quantum computing applications.
A 120-million-year-old bird specimen from the Early Cretaceous exhibits high skeletal fusion in manus and pelvis bones, features rare in most known birds from that era. Osteohistological analysis indicates that the bird reached maturity in approximately one year, similar to modern birds.
UTA researchers are using a $50,000 grant to build models and test software that will help the Trinity River Authority make a decision on converting flood storage to water supply. The conversion could allow TRA to store treated wastewater in wet years and sell it during droughts.
Researchers sequenced the genome of wild olive trees, uncovering insights into oil biosynthesis and the evolution of olive oil production. The study found that ancient gene duplication events led to increased expression of genes involved in oleic acid production.
Scientists use single-molecule FRET imaging techniques to study the dynamics of NMDA receptor gates, which control chemical signals into electrical signals. The research reveals that these gates have multiple conformational interactions that improve or degrade signaling.
Researchers developed a mathematical model of microwave communication for 5G networks, addressing signal attenuation and radio resource allocation. The study aims to enable gigabit-rate transmission via millimeter wave channels in urban environments.
Indiana University will establish a network of sites to study early-onset Alzheimer's disease, a rare variant that affects people under 65. The Longitudinal Early-onset AD Study (LEADS) aims to bridge the gap in clinical trials for this population by collecting robust longitudinal data on genetic risk factors and treatment options.
Researchers found that birds with related or familiar neighbors had better body condition and telomere length, indicating improved health and aging. The study suggests that keeping good neighbors is crucial for wild animals' well-being, particularly in densely populated areas.
The National Crime Victims Research & Treatment Center is developing a Mass Violence and Victimization Resource Center to provide fast and comprehensive services to those affected by mass casualty events. The center will focus on social support, mental health treatment, and technology-based tools to help survivors and their families.
Researchers at UC Riverside developed a photodetector that doubles its efficiency by combining two distinct materials, producing quantum mechanical processes. This breakthrough can revolutionize the way solar energy is collected.
Scientists at Albert Einstein College of Medicine have discovered a compound that directly makes cancer cells commit suicide while sparing healthy cells. The new treatment approach, BTSA1, works by triggering apoptosis in cancer cells through the BAX protein, leaving healthy cells unscathed.
A study using fruit flies has identified a mechanism behind a human heart condition that causes the heart to enlarge and fail. The mutation interferes with heart muscle relaxation, preventing it from fully filling with blood and pumping it out.
Researchers used bird specimens to track air pollution levels over 135 years, revealing a sharp drop in black carbon during the Great Depression and a rebound after World War II. The study shows that efforts to address urban smoke pollution had a lasting impact on reducing pollution.
Glioblastoma (GBM) is driven by two distinct subsets of cancer stem cells, each with its own transcriptional program and morphological characteristics. Targeting these cell populations using combined BMI1 and EZH2 inhibition achieves modest efficacy in solo treatments but synergistic results when used together.
A study reveals that massive coal formation 300 million years ago nearly led to global glaciation due to low CO2 concentrations. The research indicates that current levels of CO2 in the atmosphere pose a significant threat to climate stability.
A new study from Purdue University and the University of New Hampshire finds that pursuing sustainable irrigation can negatively impact environmental and development goals globally. The research highlights the importance of considering irrigation's interaction with other sustainable development goals.
A study published in Genome Research investigated the role of p53 in tumor suppression and found that no single gene serves as a backup 'second in command' to activate its functions. Instead, p53 relies on a multifunctional team of genes contributing to tumor suppression.
A study suggests that exclusion devices in fishing nets may be linked to elevated post-release mortality and reproductive failure among New Zealand sea lions. The research found a negative correlation between pup production and annual growth rates and the estimated interaction rate with the Auckland Islands squid fishery.
Researchers have developed a new diagnostic method for early detection of hepatocellular carcinoma, based on a simple blood sample containing circulating tumor DNA. The test has been shown to highly correlate with tumor burden, treatment response, and stage of cancer.
A new electronic frailty index (eFI) tool helps GPs identify older people at risk of frailty and poor health outcomes. The eFI uses routine data from GP databases and has been shown to flag up patients who are living with mild, moderate, or severe frailty.
Researchers analyzed data from thousands of students and found a significant decline in narcissism, particularly in traits like vanity and entitlement. The average college student scores lower on the Narcissism Personality Inventory than grandparent counterparts, suggesting that age brings a decrease in narcissistic tendencies.
A team of Rutgers scientists has discovered a way to increase the nutritional value of corn by inserting a bacterial gene that produces methionine, a key amino acid. This breakthrough could benefit millions in developing countries who rely on corn as a staple food, and significantly reduce worldwide animal feed costs.
Scientists from the University of Minnesota found that excessively fertilized lakes in Iowa had low algae growth due to the destructive effect of nitrate particles, resulting in increased water clarity. This study suggests that relying on water clarity to gauge water quality may not be effective in all regions.
A study found that calorie postings on menus lead to a significant increase in health-related discussions in online restaurant reviews, suggesting potential spillovers towards healthier restaurants. The result indicates that calorie posting can shift consumers towards healthier alternatives not only inside but also outside the restaurant.
Altered MAIT cell concentration and function are linked to T1D pathogenesis, compromising gut mucosa homeostasis and favoring autoimmune responses.
New research from Carnegie Institution for Science suggests that North Atlantic wind farms can generate at least three times more power than onshore wind farms, tapping into winds throughout the atmosphere. However, this tremendous wind power is seasonal and primarily available during winter months.
Scientists at Columbia's Zuckerman Institute found that the brain recalls larger concepts first when recalling information, then reconstructs details, reversing the traditional encoding and decoding process. This study sheds light on phenomena like eyewitness testimony and stereotyping.
A recent analysis by Stanford University researchers found that places with high animal diversity correlate with areas that have the most carbon sequestered in soil. The team discovered that meal remnants from animals contribute to an increase in soil microbes, which convert organic material into stored carbon.
Researchers successfully built a gene drive to reduce female fertility in malaria-spreading mosquitoes, but mutations soon arose that blocked the spread of new genes. This study documents the emergence of resistance and will help improve future gene drives.
Scientists have successfully created a porous solid that retains its properties in both liquid and glass states. This discovery enables the development of more efficient industrial applications for these materials.
A new study suggests that reducing nutrient pollution in salt marshes could help prevent human disease. The research found that nutrient enrichment increased the number and biomass of parasites in a specific host species, which may have implications for human health.
Researchers have identified several genes associated with congenital heart disease, including FLT4 and GDF1, which may help predict risk for future offspring. The study also found that de novo mutations in certain genes are common among CHD patients, potentially leading to neurodevelopmental issues.
A University of Vermont-led study of 300,000 children in 35 nations reveals that those living near areas with greater tree cover are less likely to experience diarrheal disease. The research suggests that protecting watersheds can have a comparable effect to improved water sanitation.
Researchers at RIT are refining lab-on-chip devices to analyze diseases faster and more cost-effectively. Blanca Lapizco-Encinas is improving the separation of biological cells and biomolecules using a combination of chromatography principles and dielectrophoresis.
A recent study analyzing survey data found that black patients were more likely to die in hospitals, while white patients received poorer treatment. The study also showed a lack of respect for white patients' wishes during end-of-life care.
Researchers discovered specialized macrophages called SAMs that interact with sympathetic neurons to affect neuronal activation and fat mass reduction. Blocking SAM-mediated norepinephrine clearance boosts fat breakdown and weight loss in mice.
Researchers found superstructures at general grain boundaries that affect the performance of polycrystalline engineering alloys. The discovery could enable the engineering of alloyed materials with superior properties and greater ductility and strength.
A Stanford-led study discovered a specific mutation in the p53 gene that enhances its anti-tumor activity, creating a 'super tumor suppressor' that protects against pancreatic cancer. The researchers found that this mutant hyperactivates p53, leading to a surge of activity in downstream target genes.
NASA-NOAA's Suomi NPP satellite captured thermal images of cloud top temperatures from Post-tropical cyclone Nate, revealing coldest temperatures in storms over the Mid-Atlantic States. The storm brought moderate to heavy rainfall to the central Appalachians and Mid-Atlantic regions.
Researchers at The Wistar Institute discovered how the genome's three-dimensional architecture changes during the cell cycle. The study found that condensation and de-condensation occur gradually, with larger domains forming during mitosis.
The University of Wisconsin-Madison has been awarded $12.5 million to develop a new laboratory that will research fundamental properties of plasma to better understand the universe. The lab, known as WiPPL, will combine expertise and equipment from two existing projects to simulate astrophysical phenomena on Earth.
Researchers found that high-risk TREM2 variants can hobble the immune system's ability to protect against amyloid beta, but later in the disease, the absence of TREM2 protein protects the brain from damage. The study suggests targeting the TREM2 protein as a means of preventing or treating Alzheimer's may be complicated and that doctor...
A recent genetic study found that men's ability to father children later in life has no link to their longevity, and women's survival past 50 is not favoured by evolution. The research suggests that genes beneficial for both early and late life are the key to understanding why people live beyond 50.
A study of 90 participants found that neural stimulation synchronized or desynchronized low-frequency brain waves between frontal cortex areas, corresponding to behavioral changes in control and learning. The findings have potential implications for the treatment of mental health disorders.
Researcher Robert Reinhart found that synchronizing specific brain oscillations enhances executive function by improving communication between two key brain areas. Participants showed improved learning and decision-making skills, and effects could be quickly reversed.
A study found that changes in marital relationship quality over time are associated with variations in cardiovascular risk factors for men. Improving relationships were linked to lower levels of 'bad' cholesterol and relatively lower weight, while deteriorating relationships were associated with worsening diastolic blood pressure.
Researchers suggest open-ocean wind farms can sustain higher electricity generation rates than on-land wind farms due to kinetic energy reservoir access. Annual global energy demand could be met with commercial-scale open-ocean wind turbines spanning approximately 3 million square kilometers.
Researchers at the University of Illinois developed guidelines to understand auxetic materials that become thicker when stretched, applicable for protective sports equipment, body armor and biomedical devices. The new tools aim to democratize auxetic design, making it accessible to engineers from novice to advanced experience levels.
A new study by Princeton University researchers reveals that the North American monsoon is facing a dramatic reduction in precipitation, with significant implications for regional water resources and hazards. The study corrects for sea surface temperature biases and suggests that the region's famous thunderstorms may become less common.