Australian scientists have discovered five key genetic regions that increase the risk of developing Macular Telangiectasia type 2 (MacTel), a degenerative eye disease leading to blindness. The findings will help researchers understand the disease and explore ways to prevent or treat its progression.
Researchers have invented a super-material that bends, shapes and focuses sound waves, pushing the boundaries of metamaterials. This innovation has the potential to revolutionize medical imaging and personal audio, allowing for precise control over sound waves.
Researchers analyzed data from thousands of online Halo and StarCraft matches to understand skill development patterns. They found that players who spaced out their activity and used consistent hotkeys habits improved most efficiently, while elite players warmed up with meaningless dummy commands to get into peak performance mode.
Researchers at Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute have identified K-homology splicing regulatory protein (KHSRP) as a regulator of the innate immune response. Depleting KHSRP improves immune signaling and reduces viral replication, suggesting that drugs inhibiting the protein may have therapeutic value.
Researchers successfully produced the first transgenic mice with a single nucleotide difference in the dystrophin and tyrosinase genes, demonstrating a new gene editing technique that can substitute one nucleotide into another without DNA deletion. This breakthrough could potentially lead to the correction of genetic defects in humans.
A recent study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology suggests that increased physical activity and lower body mass index (BMI) are associated with a reduced risk of heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF), a subtype of heart failure. The research, which pooled data from three cohort studies invol...
Researchers found that involving interdisciplinary partners improved risk communication and public safety during earthquakes. Key recommendations include engaging with decision makers, developing clear warning messages, and minimizing negative impacts of inaccurate messages.
Researchers from Michigan Technological University found that fruit flies' resistance to mushroom toxins corresponds to the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway, regulating cell physiology and metabolism in humans. This discovery opens up new avenues for studying diseases like cancer, obesity, type 2 diabetes, depression, and n...
A study at UBC's faculty of medicine found that young people value positive interactions with peers, group therapy, and emotional support from service providers. Meanwhile, youth reported feeling pigeonholed by their mental illness and experiencing impersonal encounters with support workers.
Researchers at Northwestern University have found a molecule that stops the growth of diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG), a fatal pediatric brain tumor. The study, published in Nature Medicine, reveals the molecule detaches proteins that enable cancer cells to grow, offering new treatment options for children under 10.
Dr. Junliang Tao receives $500,000 grant to apply burrowing strategies from nature in underground construction technologies and small-scale robots. His project aims to improve high-efficiency tunnel design and generate enthusiasm among K-12 students for STEM education.
Researchers at the University at Buffalo have developed software that allows a swarm of low-cost drones to quickly map an offshore oil spill. The system uses principles from nature, such as flock dynamics, to optimize communication and data sharing among the drones, enabling them to determine the size of the spill in just nine minutes.
A team at the Technical University of Munich has demonstrated that using monoenergetic X-rays from a miniature particle accelerator can significantly reduce the required quantity of contrast agents in coronary angiography. This approach enables sharper images with fewer health risks, especially for patients with kidney insufficiency.
A new epoch name could raise awareness about humanity's planetary-scale impact and encourage action on climate change. However, it may also perpetuate technological hubris and ecomyopia, a phenomenon where societies ignore or fail to act on ecological information.
A University of Oklahoma study clarifies the risk factor for delayed medical attention during a heart attack. Low patient numeracy is associated with longer decision delay, increasing the risk of complications and mortality.
Researchers at the University at Buffalo have discovered a common genomic pathway that may be responsible for schizophrenia. By studying skin cells from four adults with schizophrenia, they found a dysregulated gene program that affects over 1,000 genes and can lead to the development of the disease.
Researchers discovered that gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) accelerates brain activity after a prolonged convulsive seizure, leading to harmful neural connections. Blocking GABA's effect with bumetanide may help prevent seizures and limit the severity of epilepsy.
The task force proposes strategies to recycle carbon dioxide and remove large amounts of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, complementing carbon-free approaches like electrification. These approaches aim to produce an overall emissions reduction of at least one billion tons of carbon dioxide per year.
A team of scientists from Clemson University has discovered five ancient galaxies with extremely powerful supermassive black holes, emitting billions of times more energetic gamma rays than visible light. The oldest known gamma-ray blazars were previously thought to be over 2 billion years old.
A study by the University of British Columbia found that 63% of patients with medical cannabis used it instead of their prescription drugs. The main reasons for this switch were reduced side effects, better symptom management, and a perception that cannabis is safer than prescription drugs.
Researchers investigated Bax protein expression and myocardial changes in rabbits with acute left ventricle (LV) pressure overload. The study found that Bax protein expression decreased and morphological changes occurred, particularly on day 5 of the process.
Research from Children's Hospital Colorado found that wearing a helmet while skiing or snowboarding lowers the risk of sustaining severe head injuries. The study also discovered that nearly twice as many local Colorado children wear helmets compared to out-of-state visitors.
A new study by University of California - Santa Barbara researchers found that synchronously restoring predator and prey species speeds recovery efforts of both. This approach is nearly always more efficient and on average about twice as fast as sequential recovery.
Researchers identified sections of DNA associated with altered gene expression in schizophrenia, pointing to alternative splicing as a contributing mechanism. The study found four disease susceptibility genes impacted through splicing regulation, including NEK4 and FXR1.
Researchers have developed a new technology using light to continuously monitor a surgical patient's blood, providing real-time status during life-and-death operations. This technology has the potential to replace the need for doctors to wait while blood is drawn and tested, potentially saving lives in intensive care settings.
Researchers have discovered a key link between plasma flow and turbulent transport in toroidal fusion plasmas. This understanding has led to improved confinement regimes and reduced the prospects of fusion.
A new study published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology found that cholesterol-lowering statins have no benefits for patients with small cell lung cancer. The largest randomized trial of its kind showed no improvement in treatment outcomes, contradicting previous claims about statin's potential role in preventing cancer development.
A new study aims to improve detection of viral pathogens in water resources by developing more accurate DNA sequencing methods. The research has the potential to enhance public health and safety, particularly in areas where conventional methods are limited due to viral diversity.
A new primate species from India has been discovered, revealing a previously unknown branch of the evolutionary tree. The ancient Ramadapis sahnii existed around 11-14 million years ago and is connected to lemurs and humans through its Sivaladapidae family ties.
A UCL-led team found evidence of planetary debris surrounding a double sun system called SDSS 1557, which suggests the presence of terrestrial planets like Tatooine. The discovery is remarkable because it shows a high metal content, including silicon and magnesium, indicating rocky planet assembly via large asteroids that formed.
A clinical trial has demonstrated that a monoclonal antibody, lanadelumab, significantly reduces HAE attacks without serious side effects. The study found strong efficacy in participants receiving high doses of the treatment.
Scientists have successfully created plant-based wires and supercapacitors that can store energy, opening up new possibilities for renewable energy sources. The innovative technology enables plants to absorb conducting polymer solutions, forming functional transistors and storing electrical charge.
A new species of parasitic wasp, Poropoea africana, has been found in the eggs of leaf-rolling weevils in northeastern Gabon. The wasp measures less than 2mm and has unique physical characteristics that distinguish it from related species.
A new study suggests reducing pressure on both predators and prey simultaneously is the most effective way to help their populations recover. This approach, known as synchronous recovery, has been shown to produce faster and more direct recovery rates than sequential approaches.
Researchers found that invasive Phragmites australis has no significant impact on plant diversity, shoreline stabilization, and carbon storage in protected wetlands. The study suggests maintaining protected reserves can help defend against negative impacts of invasive species.
A new study maps and classifies the earthquake shaking potential across most of the Las Vegas metropolitan area, revealing that much of the ground is stiffer and potentially safer than previously thought. The site classifications could lead to reduced construction costs and improved safety measures for buildings.
Colorado State University scientists have shed light on the relationship between cell membranes and cortical actin cytoskeletons. They used superresolution imaging to visualize proteins on the cell surface, revealing sophisticated patterns of movement that are directly caused by the fractal nature of the actin network.
Researchers at Osaka University create tri-color changing materials that exhibit efficient thermally activated delayed fluorescence and enable the production of high-performance OLEDs devices. The materials display a range of colors in response to temperature and pressure, showing promise for applications such as pressure- and temperat...
Researchers at the University of California San Diego found a collaborative diabetes clinic to be cost-effective, improving patient outcomes and lowering healthcare costs. The clinic's personalized medication therapy management and education led to better glycemic control and reduced medical costs for patients over three years.
A new compound developed by the Deshaies group inhibits Rpn11 activity, causing massive accumulation of dysfunctional proteins in cancer cells. This leads to catastrophic stress and cell death, making it a promising alternative to existing cancer drugs.
A combination of two cancer drugs has been found to inhibit both dengue and Ebola virus infections in mice, with efficacy also shown against West Nile and Zika viruses. The study identified a molecular mechanism by which the drugs disrupt RNA viruses' genetic material.
Stella Offner's research aims to understand how stars form and interact with their birth environments. Her team will perform computer simulations to test different theories on star mass origin and compare models to telescope observations of star-forming regions.
Researchers developed a method to transform silk protein into complex materials that can be easily programmed at the nano-, micro-, and macro-scales. The resulting materials are ultralight, robust, and feature a web-like structure with aerated pores.
Under the PAMA provision, physicians will need to consult CMS-approved computer-based clinical decision support mechanisms when ordering advanced imaging procedures. The CMS will collect data for two years before implementing prior authorization for 'outlier' physicians, which may limit access to these procedures.
A Baylor University study found that Millennials pursuing PR careers are unprepared to address moral dilemmas, citing a lack of workplace training and mentorship. The study recommends requiring ethics courses, providing in-workplace training, and promoting senior practitioners' experiences to equip Millennials for their roles.
A University of Sheffield study found that fertilizers used in wheat cultivation contribute significantly to greenhouse gas emissions, dwarfing other production processes. The research highlights the need for sustainable solutions to reduce environmental impacts and promote food security.
A new study by NCAR scientists finds that as the world warms, mountain snowpack will not only melt earlier but also more slowly. This shift could lead to reduced streamflow, affecting urban water supplies and riparian ecosystems.
A preliminary meta-analysis of studies on adults and children with primary generalized tonic-clonic seizures found positive results in both groups, suggesting a similar effectiveness of medicines.
A new research letter analyzed changes in appointment availability and wait times for Medicaid and private insurance callers in 10 states. Medicaid callers saw significant increases in appointment availability and short waits, while private insurance callers experienced decreases in short waits and increases in long waits.
Speakers at a University of Arizona summit on science diplomacy and policy emphasized the importance of scientific evidence in setting sound policies. Experts like Nobel laureate Peter Agre and former ambassadors shared stories of their research programs and collaborations with countries with strained diplomatic relations.
A new study suggests that reviving extinct species may lead to a loss of biodiversity rather than an increase. The research found that funding conservation efforts for some revived species would come at the expense of others.
Researchers at MIT have developed a machine that can rapidly produce large quantities of customized peptides in about 37 seconds. This technology could help researchers generate new peptide drugs to test on various diseases and also produces customized cancer vaccines for individual patients.
A new study published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal suggests that publicly funding essential medicines for all Canadians could save over $4 billion a year. The researchers identified a list of 117 essential medicines that accounted for 44% of all prescriptions filled at retail pharmacies in 2015.
A study published in The Journal of the American Osteopathic Association found that young adults with high melanin content skin are at increased risk of sunburn. Researchers suggest that targeted sunburn prevention programs, including apps that gamify protection, could help reduce this risk.
Researchers at OIST have developed a new strategy for producing photoluminescent compounds by combining the flexibility of weak aggregation-driven complexes with the controllability of conventional metal-ligand systems. This results in molecules that can be tuned to emit light of specific colors based on their structure.
A new algorithm allows users from different network providers to pair up and make better use of the available wireless spectrum, reducing inefficiency in wireless technology. The 'blind' matching algorithm uses a simple learning process and converges to a stable-matching state, enabling mutually beneficial partnerships.
Historical ecologists identify key questions about past human-environmental relationships to inform modern sustainability efforts. The research aims to bridge the gap between natural and social sciences, incorporating Indigenous knowledge and perspectives.
A new study suggests that climate scientists can engage in public advocacy without harming their credibility, except when endorsing specific policies. The research found that five out of six fictional scientist statements went unharmed, with only a statement on nuclear power plants causing concern.
A study found that living with children affects women's sleep patterns, but not men's. Women with kids report feeling tired for more days than those without children.
A new study published in Nicotine & Tobacco Research reveals that comprehensive smoking bans significantly decrease overall secondhand smoke exposure across all settings. Exposure to secondhand smoke was found to drop from 72% in 2006 to 45% in 2011, even outside workplaces and hospitality areas covered by the legislation.