Advanced neuroimaging techniques provide a basis for studying circuit-level abnormalities in psychiatric disorders. Recent large-scale research projects, including the Human Connectome Project, have focused on defining and mapping brain functional connections.
Researchers at New Zealand's University of Otago have discovered that Natural Killer (NK) cells act as helper cells to start the immune response, patrolling the body to destroy abnormal cells. The NK cells' ability to recognize fragments of tumor cells released into the blood enhances the immune system's recognition of these fragments,...
Researchers at the University of Nottingham found that contagious yawning is triggered automatically by primitive reflexes in the primary motor cortex. Their study showed that individuals' propensity for contagious yawning is determined by cortical excitability and physiological inhibition, with limited ability to resist yawns.
A new study shows that untreated sleep apnea increases blood sugar, fat levels, stress hormones, and blood pressure while participants slept. Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy is recommended to prevent these consequences.
A new study found that protecting unauthorized immigrant mothers from deportation significantly improved the mental health of their U.S. citizen children, with over 50% fewer diagnosis of adjustment disorders and anxiety. The researchers suggest that a broader analysis of the DACA program is needed to account for intergenerational effe...
Research by American University neuroscience Professor Colin Saldanha shows that estrogen synthesis in the brains of zebra finches can fight off neuroinflammation caused by infection. This finding reveals clues about the interplay between the body's neuroendocrine and immune systems.
A new study has detected high concentrations of antidepressants and their metabolites in the brain tissue of fish species in the Niagara River, raising environmental concerns. The levels of these drugs have accumulated over time, posing a risk to biodiversity.
A new Concordia University study uses NASA data to predict Montreal's future climate, showing increased spatial variability and intensity of climate impacts. The research highlights the need for local design and management approaches to address climate change, rather than relying on one-size-fits-all solutions.
Researchers at the University of Bergen have found that asthma medicine can halve a patient's risk of developing Parkinson's disease. The study analyzed over 100 million Norwegian prescriptions and discovered a link between asthma medicine and reduced Parkinson's risk.
Researchers found that inflammation originating from abdominal fat precedes the development of sleep apnea in adolescence. Weight loss and anti-inflammatory medication have also been shown to reduce apnea severity. The study suggests biological-based interventions may be more effective for mild to moderate cases.
Researchers discover that coyote populations are difficult to control due to increased immigration of younger animals vying for territories. The population's reduced reproductive capacity, largely composed of juveniles that rarely breed, contributes to the challenge.
Stanford University scientists have created a compound solar cell with perovskite microcells encapsulated in hexagonal scaffolds, inspired by the insect compound eye. The design increases fracture resistance without compromising efficiency, and the cells withstand extreme temperatures and humidity.
Researchers at LSU Health New Orleans have discovered the potential of a protein called Nischarin to treat or prevent metabolic diseases such as obesity and diabetes. The findings showed that Nischarin interacts with and controls the activity of a gene called AMPK, leading to improved glucose and insulin tolerance.
Lim's work impacts public through real-world applications, including neural fiber mapping and Human Connectome Project. He received multiple awards for his research on tensors, hypermatrices, and computational geometry/topology.
A recent study published in Sleep Medicine suggests that mothers' insomnia symptoms are closely related to their children's sleep quality. Researchers found that children of mothers with insomnia symptoms tend to fall asleep later and have poorer sleep, suggesting a strong influence of maternal behavior on children's sleep habits.
A study published by The BMJ found that staying in education is associated with a lower risk of developing coronary heart disease. Increasing the number of years spent in education may lower this risk by a substantial amount, say the authors.
Researchers discovered how a bacterial protein loosely binds to a mineral, allowing the bacterium to breathe in oxygen-deprived conditions. The study revealed that this protein interacts relatively weakly with the mineral, requiring less binding energy than typical proteins.
Researchers at the University of Bristol discovered a family of proteins controlling brain connectivity through multiple checkpoints. This discovery could lead to new therapies targeting conditions like autism and epilepsy by regulating neuronal circuits.
Tropical Storm Irma is steadily strengthening and nearing hurricane strength, with maximum sustained winds reaching near 70 mph and a central pressure of 997 millibars. Satellite imagery shows the storm becoming better organized with a developing central dense overcast.
Researchers at the Francis Crick Institute found that acute myeloid leukemia causes bone marrow to 'leak' blood, preventing chemotherapy from working. Drugs that reversed this leakiness boosted chemotherapy's effect in mice and human tissue.
A systematic review found that indoor spraying had some effect on either mosquito populations or dengue case numbers, with stronger evidence for adult mosquito populations. The study concluded that more research is needed, but the results are promising as a vector control method.
A study published in Academic Emergency Medicine found that patients with limited health literacy are more likely to visit the emergency department for potentially avoidable reasons. The researchers propose that targeted interventions can reduce preventable ED visits and improve healthcare efficiency.
Gut microbes produce proteins that regulate NFIL3's circadian cycling, controlling fat absorption and export. This interaction may shed light on why disrupted clocks increase risk for obesity and diabetes.
Researchers at Baylor College of Medicine developed a new automated method that significantly reduces the time to dissect the 3D structure of a single cell, from one week to about an hour. This enables the detailed study of cellular processes and disease, leading to a better understanding of cellular architecture and structures.
A new study published in the Journal of Motor Behavior found that Perceptual Control Theory can significantly improve performance in sports and other activities. The theory argues that teaching people what to do is less effective than teaching them how to picture the desired outcome.
A new study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that transcranial direct-current stimulation (tDCS) was less effective than escitalopram, an antidepressant, in treating depression. The researchers concluded that tDCS cannot be recommended as first-line therapy due to its lack of efficacy and adverse side effects.
Researchers confirm zoonotic transmission of Plasmodium simium in 28 human cases in the Atlantic Forest region of southern Brazil, where malaria was previously thought to be eliminated. The study highlights the need for further investigation into the natural history and biology of the parasites in their non-human primate hosts.
Researchers discovered that a particular receptor in kidney cells plays a crucial role in obesity-induced kidney damage. Targeting this receptor or its associated signaling pathway may help protect the kidneys of individuals with obesity from structural and functional changes, thereby reducing the risk of chronic kidney disease.
Researchers discovered a bacterial protein, EroS, that induces mating behavior in single-celled organisms called choanoflagellates. Swarming among these unicellular organisms precedes sexual reproduction, and the protein's enzymatic function is responsible for this change.
A dramatic drop in Antarctic sea ice in 2016 was caused by a unique combination of factors, including a strong El Niño event and unusually weak winds around the South Pole. The area of sea ice decreased to its lowest level in 40 years, with ocean temperatures also being unusually warm.
Plant miRNAs in beebread/pollen delay honeybee caste differentiation and keep ovaries inactive, inducing sterile worker bees. This study reveals a new mechanism for RNA regulation in insect development.
Scientists have developed a new algorithm that can mirror a microgrid's inertia by adjusting the photovoltaic system's direct current. The solution aims to make microgrids work like large power grids with high inertia, improving stability and reliability.
The Center for Biorenewable Chemicals (CBiRC) at Iowa State University has introduced a new model for developing biorenewable technologies. By identifying 'bioprivileged molecules' with unique properties, researchers aim to create value from biomass and expand the bioproduct horizon beyond petrochemicals.
A new article suggests that bilingual children from low-income homes are at risk of falling behind their peers in developing language skills, leading to poorer academic performance. The research recommends community resources, parent training programs, and innovative technologies to foster language development in these children.
Typhoon Sanvu developed a massive eye, approximately 28 nautical miles wide, as observed by NASA-NOAA's Suomi NPP satellite. The storm strengthened to maximum sustained winds near 86 mph, forecast to reach 103 mph before weakening.
Researchers identified beta-2 adrenergic receptor agonists as compounds that can suppress alpha-synuclein gene expression, reducing the genetic risk factor for Parkinson's disease. The findings suggest that widely used beta-2AR agonists should be rigorously tested in PD patients.
Researchers found that mind wandering occurs in 70% of drivers during a simulation, causing distinctive brain activity. Drivers are often unaware of their mental drift, which can impair reaction time and increase road traffic crashes. The study suggests that autonomous transport systems may be an option to improve safety.
Researchers found that honeybees fed plant microRNA supplements developed more slowly and had smaller bodies than those not receiving the supplements. The study reveals a previously unknown function of plant microRNAs in fine-tuning larval development.
A new pathway to target Parkinson's disease has been identified, leveraging beta2-adrenergic agonists that lower alpha-synuclein production. Studies in mice and human health records suggest a 34% reduced PD risk for patients taking salbutamol.
A study found that symptoms from multiple illnesses, such as depression and fatigue, can affect an older adult's ability to function. Non-drug behavioral treatments may be effective in managing these symptoms and improving overall well-being.
A new study reveals that reef fish are less affected by ocean acidification than previously thought. The researchers used a laboratory setting to mimic natural daily changes in water chemistry, which provided fish with a recovery period and reduced their sensitivity to higher carbon dioxide levels.
Research supports e-cigarette use as a smoking cessation aid with consistent daily use increasing the odds of quit success by 10%, but those using e-cigarettes less frequently face lower quit rates.
Research finds that people tend to lean more economically conservative when they're angry, as anger enhances support for economic conservatism by making them more competitive. Additionally, studies show that being reminded of gratitude can lead to more economically liberal responses.
A new study suggests that the Palaeocene-Eocene Thermal Maximum (PETM) was caused by volcanic carbon emissions, resulting in a rapid doubling of atmospheric CO2. The event, which lasted around 150 thousand years, saw global temperatures increase by at least 5oC.
A comparative analysis of trauma data from India and the US reveals that women in India are nearly 40 times more likely to die after being assaulted. The disparity is attributed to various factors, including delayed medical attention and unequal access to healthcare services.
A new assessment predicts fracture risk for patients in long-term care, identifying key factors such as age, mobility, and cognitive impairment. The tool has the potential to standardize fracture prevention efforts and save lives among nursing home residents.
Researchers at Lund University have developed an imaging method that shows changes in the brain associated with Alzheimer's disease at different stages of life. The method uses a PET camera and a trace substance to detect tau protein and can facilitate diagnosis and treatment for younger patients.
The University of Missouri is developing immunizations against bovine anaplasmosis using extracts from tick tissues. The goal is to create sustainable methods to prevent the spread of tick-transmitted diseases.
A new Stanford University study found that protecting unauthorized immigrant parents from deportation leads to dramatic improvements in their children's mental health. Research examined the intergenerational effects of DACA on 8,610 children born between 2003 and 2015.
A new study provides in-depth analysis of human mouth clicks used in echolocation, revealing brief and focused clicks with distinct acoustic patterns. The findings enable the creation of virtual human echolocators, allowing researchers to investigate object features without impractical measurements.
Tropical Storm Lidia is producing heavy rain and life-threatening flash floods in Mexico. Infrared data shows two areas of strong thunderstorms with extremely cold cloud tops, indicating potential for intense rainfall.
A recent experiment by the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute found that native tree species outperformed teak in infertile tropical soils. The study showed that Amarillo (Terminalia amazonia) trees grew exceptionally well, accumulating biomass faster than teak and having excellent timber value.
Researchers found that changing routine boarding protocols could reduce the spread of disease on commercial airliners. A two-zone system where passengers board at random is suggested as a more efficient way to prevent infection.
A recent study found that 3.3% of all emergency department visits were avoidable, with the top causes being alcohol abuse, dental disorders, and depressive disorders. Increasing access to dental and mental health facilities could reduce these visits, providing treatment at a lower cost elsewhere.
A new clinical investigation is testing whether genetic screening can identify patients with a specific mutation who are the best candidates for deep brain stimulation surgery. The study aims to determine how this genetic information can inform surgical decisions and potentially improve outcomes for Parkinson's disease patients.
A new superbug strain, ST11 CR-HvKP, has been discovered in a Hong Kong hospital outbreak, characterized by hyper-resistance and hypervirulence. The strain can cause untreatable and fatal infections in relatively healthy individuals, highlighting the need for improved infection prevention and control policies.
A new method, NLLE, generates ensemble initial perturbations with similar forecast skill to ETKF scheme. It offers a time-saving alternative to ETKF scheme in high-dimensional models.
A comprehensive analysis reveals that changes in daytime versus nighttime leaf-to-air temperatures are crucial determinants of geographic gradients in leaf size. The study's findings have significant implications for predictive modeling and understanding ecosystem functioning, particularly in response to changing climate conditions.
A new technique developed by researchers at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln has improved the properties of plant-derived biodegradable plastic, allowing for large-scale industrial production. The approach involves rapidly heating bio-plastic fibers to high temperatures, resulting in enhanced resistance to heat and moisture.
A new study by the University of Warwick and the University of Basel found that children whose mothers suffer from insomnia symptoms fall asleep later, get less sleep, and spend less time in deep sleep. This may affect their mental wellbeing and development.
A study published in Springer's journal Race and Social Problems found that white students who engage in microaggressive acts are likely to endorse colorblind, symbolic, and modern racist attitudes. The research suggests that these small actions can be indicative of broader negative racial attitudes towards black students.
Researchers at the University of Missouri have identified a framework to help victims of domestic violence before, during, and after disaster events. The framework integrates domestic violence services into disaster-related assistance, promoting empowerment for women and children.
A study found that climate change may have contributed to the 7% surge in US road traffic collision deaths in 2015. Warmer temperatures led to an increase in miles driven, resulting in higher CO2 emissions and further temperature increases.
ASTRO has recognized 43 researchers and clinical teams for their top-rated research abstracts, showcasing innovative science in radiation oncology. The Resident Clinical/Basic Science Research Abstract Award and Annual Meeting Travel Award also support early-career scientists, with a total of $45,000 in honorariums awarded.
Researchers matched microscopic quartz grains to their desert source using cathodeluminescence spectral analysis. This method revealed the heterogeneity in grains, shedding light on the pathways and effects of long-distance airborne dust.
A team of biologists has found that glia, previously regarded as passive support cells, are crucial to nerve-cell development in the brain. The study reveals that fundamental questions about brain development can only be understood when accounting for glial contributions.
A new analysis argues that decades of research on apes' social intelligence is based on wishful thinking and flawed science. Scientists have assumed human babies are more socially capable than ape adults, leading to biased research designs.
Researchers from MIT's CSAIL have developed a new caching system that uses flash memory, reducing energy consumption by up to 90%. The system, dubbed BlueCache, achieves this through clever engineering tricks, including pipelining and the use of DRAM, while maintaining fast performance.
A study by Cleveland Clinic researchers found that beta blockers can help treat pulmonary arterial hypertension, a debilitating lung disease. The treatment improved heart rate and efficiency, reducing the risk of right-sided heart failure.
Researchers developed a silver micron-particle sintering joining technology that can bond various electrodes, including Cu and Au, at low temperatures. This technology achieves high reliability and low electrical resistivity, contributing to energy saving and reduction of CO2 gas.
Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh are exploring a new architectural system based on acoustic diodes to create effective sound barriers that can cancel out unwanted noise. The technology has the potential to improve indoor comfort, reduce mental stress, and enhance workplace efficiency.
A recent study published in BMC Ecology found that grey mouse lemurs with high hair cortisol levels had a lower chance of survival. The researchers discovered that low cortisol levels were associated with a 13.9% higher chance of survival compared to those with high levels.
Scientists at Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association use a new spatial mapping algorithm to reassemble the fly embryo from thousands of single cells, revealing unique gene expression profiles. The virtual embryo shows exactly which genes are active where at this point in time.
The University of Arizona is conducting a Phase 2 trial to determine whether the peptide angiotensin 1-7 can mitigate or reverse cognitive deficits after bypass surgery. The trial involves administering the compound before and after surgery, with participants undergoing regular tests to evaluate their memory.
A 1°C warming of the Antarctic Ocean led to a single pioneer species dominating the community, driving a reduction in overall species diversity and evenness. Marine organisms also responded with increased growth rates, particularly in warmer months.
A new case-control study found that the BCG vaccine protects over 50% of UK children against TB for at least 20 years after vaccination in early teenage years. The research highlights the importance of BCG in preventing the spread of disease, particularly in areas with high TB risk but low vaccination coverage.
A team of scientists from ASU and Penn State University has discovered the structure of a reaction center that preserves the characteristics of the ancestral one, providing new insight into the evolution of photosynthesis. This breakthrough sheds light on the process by which organisms harness light energy to drive their metabolism.
Researchers discovered postzygotic mosaic mutations, which occur after conception, contribute to autism risk in 3-4% of individuals. These 'silent' mutations alter genetic message stitching and may increase risk by 1-2% for genes essential for development.
Researchers at the University of California San Diego have unlocked the mechanisms underlying animal kinship attachments and social attraction. The study found that neurotransmitters and microRNAs play a crucial role in regulating these behaviors, including the switching of neurotransmitters in response to olfactory cues.
The average paternal age at birth in the US has increased from 27.4 years to 30.9 years over the past four decades. Men over 40 now account for 9% of all births, while those over 50 make up nearly 1%. This trend is likely to have public health implications and affect demographics.
Researchers have discovered a fetal gene associated with an increased risk of preeclampsia, which affects around 5% of all pregnancies worldwide. The genetic variant identified is linked to the FLT-1 protein, which damages the mother's vascular system and leads to symptoms such as high blood pressure.
The Bukit Nanas Forest Reserve in Kuala Lumpur still retains important biodiversity, with 425 plant species recorded, including 159 new species. The reserve's diversity was confirmed through surveys conducted between April 2015 and May 2016.
The current approach to quality measurement in healthcare is characterized by inefficiency and imbalance, with measures that are duplicative, overlapping, or overrepresent certain areas of care. A lack of consideration for the cost of each measure hinders the ability to assess its value.
Research highlights the benefits of maternal stress in wildlife, influencing offspring characteristics and behaviors. Prenatal exposure to stress hormones can shape epigenetic changes, behavior, and physiology in offspring.
A new University of Michigan study found that elderly Chinese-Americans who experience racial discrimination are twice as likely to consider suicide. The study, which examined 3,157 Chicago-area Chinese-American adults aged 60 and older, also highlights the impact of age, loneliness, pain, and depression on suicidal thoughts.
A new study published in the journal Nutrients shows that despite popular belief, Americans consume very little bread, with only less than 15% of total calories coming from grain foods. However, this small amount of grain food provides a disproportionately positive amount of critical nutrients, including dietary fiber, folate, and iron.
A study explores the relationship between Chédiak-Higashi syndrome and periodontitis, revealing that LYST mutations affect TLRs and lead to a dysregulated immune response. Classic CHS patients with bone marrow transplantation exhibited mild chronic periodontitis, while atypical CHS patients showed no evidence of aggressive periodontitis.
The Your DNA Your Say project gathers public opinions on the sharing of genetic information through a film-based survey. The results will feed into the work of GA4GH and inform policy development on how genetic data is used and distributed.
Researchers have identified two key genes that contribute to the aggressive spread of neuroblastomas. The study found that high levels of LMO1 expression promote metastasis in MYCN-induced neuroblastoma by dysregulating extracellular matrix genes, paving the way for new therapies.
Researchers at Oregon State University discovered that Mycobacterium avium uses voltage-dependent anion channels to export effector proteins, which are essential for its survival. By disrupting this process, the distribution channels of the organism could be targeted to halt its progression.
A recent study at the University of Missouri found that collegiate sports venues can significantly reduce waste by implementing better recycling systems, donating unsold food to charities, and replacing high-emission foods with more sustainable options. By adopting these strategies, stadiums can achieve 'zero waste' operations and set ...
Researchers design a second-order sliding mode controller to eliminate frequency fluctuations and improve control of DC-DC buck converters. The new method retains robustness while allowing flexibility in the sliding line parameter.
Researchers developed verified guidelines for monitoring 5 saproxylic beetle species in Europe, utilizing citizen scientists' data collection. The project also found that children's participation in environmental education programs positively impacts their attitude towards nature.