A recent study published in The BMJ found that nearly all off-label antidepressant prescriptions (around 29%) were not supported by strong scientific evidence. Only 16% of these prescriptions had direct evidence backing the drug's use for the indication, while 40% relied on another drug in the same class with strong evidence.
Research reveals that regulatory T cells interact with and support the survival of plasma cells, a crucial component of the immune system. The interaction is essential for maintaining plasma cells, which produce antibodies against previously encountered pathogens or vaccines.
Researchers have discovered a drug combination that can regenerate hair cells in the inner ear, offering a potential new way to treat hearing loss. The treatment involves expanding progenitor cells and stimulating them to become mature hair cells.
A team of archaeologists and biological anthropologists have discovered that a matrilineal dynasty likely ruled Pueblo Bonito in New Mexico for over 300 years. The study, published in Nature Communications, used radiocarbon dating and ancient DNA analysis to show that the leadership was inherited through the maternal line.
A new study from Aarhus University found that children born to mothers who took anti-epilepsy medicine during pregnancy have no significant differences in doctor visits compared to those not exposed. The study also showed that the use of anti-epilepsy medicine does not affect the general health of children, including those with epileps...
Researchers found African-American women were more likely to report loneliness, financial stress, and lower social status compared to non-Hispanic white women. These findings highlight the need for tailored interventions to address social disadvantages on loneliness in vulnerable populations.
Researchers found that listeria causes inflammation and collateral damage to the placenta, allowing bacteria to invade the fetus. The study suggests that listeria may be a culprit in some miscarriages without diagnosed cause. Effective antibiotics are available to treat the infection.
Researchers have developed a new handheld instrument for minimally invasive surgery, providing the same benefits as robot-assisted surgery at a lower cost. The technology could increase access to advanced laparoscopic instruments in rural hospitals and medical centers.
A new study published in JAMA and J AMA Internal Medicine found that testosterone therapy improved bone density and strength, as well as reduced anemia in older men with low testosterone levels. However, the therapy had no impact on cognitive function and may worsen plaque in coronary arteries.
A study found that patients with metastatic melanoma who responded to PD1 checkpoint inhibitor therapy had a greater diversity of gut bacteria and larger volumes of specific bacteria than non-responders. The researchers also discovered increased immune infiltrates in responders' tumors, correlated to the abundance of a specific bacterium.
Men treated with testosterone replacement therapy had a 33% lower risk of heart attacks and strokes compared to those who didn't receive hormone therapy. Androgen deficiency is characterized by low testosterone levels, which can cause symptoms like erectile dysfunction and hot flashes.
Experts argue that the UK's action plan to reduce childhood obesity is lacking in key measures, including evidence-based interventions and strong controls on advertising. They recommend a new global alliance to strengthen the plan and develop a strategy for childhood and future societal health.
A study of almost 700 youth handball players found that a sudden increase in training and matches can lead to shoulder injuries. The risk is highest if the player's load is increased by more than 60% compared to the previous week.
The NIH is conducting a Phase 1 clinical trial to test an investigational vaccine called AGS-v, designed to trigger an immune response to mosquito saliva. The goal is to provide broad protection against mosquito-transmitted diseases such as Zika, malaria, and dengue fever.
A team at the University of Tsukuba has created a novel approach to measure fluid drag on the body during front-crawl swimming, which overcomes previous limitations. The new method, utilizing load cells and underwater motion analysis, allows for accurate determination of active drag and comparison to passive drag states.
Scientists at Max Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience have discovered a novel molecular mechanism behind short-term neuronal plasticity, which may impact motor control. The study found that analog-to-digital facilitation occurs more readily in juvenile brains and depends on Kv3 channel inactivation.
A new study published in JAMA suggests that testosterone treatments may increase the risk of heart disease in older men. The study found a significant increase in arterial plaque among men aged 65 and older who received testosterone replacement therapy for a year, with a 20% rise in total coronary and noncalcified plaque volumes.
Researchers developed nanostraws that can sample a single cell at a time without damaging it, allowing for long-term non-destructive monitoring of cellular processes. This technique could inform cancer treatments and help develop patient-specific organs by understanding how stem cells evolve.
Researchers from Aarhus University have found a protein called IFI16 that plays a significant role in the innate immune system's defence against cancer and viruses. The discovery may lead to the development of new immunotherapies for cancer treatment.
Researchers have discovered a new group of apolipoproteins, including apoE, apoC2, and apoC3, that are associated with a stronger link to cardiovascular disease. These findings could lead to improved screening methods and personalized treatments for patients at risk of cardiovascular disease.
A Phase 1 clinical trial found that the PfSPZ Vaccine protected 64% of healthy adults from a different malaria strain, while also inducing durable T cell responses. The vaccine showed cross-protection against multiple strains, providing hope for an effective malaria vaccine.
A recent study published in Global Change Biology found that diverse fish populations play a crucial role in maintaining ecosystem balance. Larger fish like suckers and catfish store nutrients, contributing to stream biological productivity. Non-native fish also serve as buffers for ecosystems against environmental change.
Sebastian Will, a Columbia University assistant professor, has been awarded a $60,000 fellowship to investigate the fundamental understanding of quantum many-body systems. The Alfred P. Sloan Foundation recognizes his unique potential to make substantial contributions to physics.
A new study on genetic data of prehistoric human remains shows that only a few women participated in the migration from the Pontic-Caspian Steppe around 5,000 years ago, whereas men made up most of the migrants. This suggests that different social and cultural processes drove the two migrations.
Scientists discovered that buttercup petals contain a one-cell thick epidermis with a yellow pigment, which acts as an optical film reflecting light. The starch layer also scatters light, enriching the flower's bright yellow color. This complex anatomy produces a glossy sheen and advantages pollination and seed maturation.
Fermi data reveals concentrated gamma rays at Andromeda's center, sparking speculation about dark matter. The unusual distribution may be caused by unknown sources or the presence of dark matter.
A study found that collaborative care improved depressive symptoms in older adults with subthreshold depression compared to usual care. After four months, participants in collaborative care had lower scores on measures of self-reported depression severity and fewer cases of depression.
Successful dieters tend to express positive sentiments on Twitter with language related to health and fitness. Their larger social networks and engagement also contribute to stronger support systems, positively impacting dieting compliance. In contrast, unsuccessful dieters often exhibit a negative tone and lack emotional control.
A new review suggests that improved ACL reconstruction techniques can restore normal knee motion and slow degenerative changes associated with osteoarthritis. The placement of a graft on the femur is crucial for preventing cartilage thinning, a key factor in maintaining joint health and function.
A team from the Instituto de Astrofísica de Canarias has found a new method to measure star formation rates in galaxies using radio emission. The study reveals that radio waves are an ideal tracer for estimating star formation rates, unaffected by interstellar dust and not requiring combination with other tracers.
Researchers discovered that drugs targeting inhibitory brain receptors can alter synapse number, potentially offering therapeutic strategies for autism and schizophrenia. Targeted therapy during adolescence may help normalize synapse numbers in individuals with abnormal numbers of synapses.
A study by Duke University identifies 6,648 fracking spills in Colorado, New Mexico, North Dakota, and Pennsylvania between 2005 and 2014, with half of spills due to pipes and valves. The analysis reveals that wells with previous spills are at higher risk of future incidents.
Researchers from University of Delaware and Princeton University show that US grid can manage large amounts of offshore wind power, reducing pollution and electricity costs. The study found that the PJM grid can handle over 35 gigawatts of offshore wind, powering approximately 10 million homes.
A new UCL study suggests that people's brain tricks them into believing the low-hanging fruit is ripest when it requires minimal effort. The researchers found that adding load to one of the handles made participants avoid the more effortful response, changing their perception without awareness.
Researchers uncovered the fovea's computational architecture and basic visual processing, distinct from other regions of the retina. This discovery helps explain differences in central and peripheral vision qualities.
Researchers found that osteopathic structural examinations can help identify ectopic pregnancies, particularly those located outside the fallopian tubes. This technique is useful in emergency situations where imaging fails due to bleeding caused by a rupture.
A new study finds that cumulative hazards from nuisance flooding in US cities will cost more than extreme events like Hurricane Katrina or Superstorm Sandy over time. The research predicts that by 2050, cities like Miami and Seattle may experience up to 700 hours of nuisance flooding per year.
Recent immune research advances the understanding of autism spectrum disorder (ASD), highlighting the role of immune dysregulation in its development. Therapies targeting the immune system may also have benefits beyond ASD, such as preventing attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder.
A new study found that children with all types of congenital heart defects have a 24% higher odds of not meeting standards in reading or math. Those with critical defects are also more likely to receive special education support compared to those with less severe defects.
Researchers from Northwestern University developed a new approach to improve night-vision cameras using strained-layer indium arsenide/indium arsenide antimonide type-II superlattices. The new design enables infrared cameras to perform imaging at higher temperatures, reducing the need for cryogenic cooling power.
Researchers found that a shorter course of radiation therapy, known as moderate hypofractionation, is just as effective at treating prostate cancer while costing less. This approach can help patients recover more quickly and reduces the burden on treatment centers and payers.
Physical activity is most important lifestyle change to reduce breast cancer recurrence risk, with at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise per day recommended. Avoiding weight gain and maintaining adequate vitamin D levels also play a crucial role in reducing the risk of cancer recurrence.
Researchers found that cancer cells can spread through the extracellular matrix with optimal tissue stiffness. Drugs targeting ECM stiffness could prevent metastasis, providing a new approach to diagnostics and treatment.
Researchers at OIST have adapted a parent-training program for ADHD to support Japanese families, resulting in reduced child symptoms and improved parent-child relationships. The study suggests that the new program could become an effective mainstream treatment for ADHD in Japan.
Researchers found that hospitalized stroke patients with visible brain vessel changes and those who exhibited weakness or partial loss of movement were at higher risk for falls. Social media campaigns can effectively educate and engage communities about stroke awareness, increasing website traffic by 200% compared to previous years.
Kanako, a 24-year-old chimp, has been diagnosed with trisomy 22, a chromosomal defect similar to human Down syndrome. She experiences stunted growth, congenital heart disease, blindness, and vision problems, highlighting the need for care and research into this condition in apes.
Researchers have mapped the critical steps of DNA replication, revealing how a ring-shaped protein called origin recognition complex (ORC) initiates the process by slipping into a groove on DNA and initiating a cascade of microscopic interactions. The study provides new insights into an immensely complex system that is constantly ongoi...
A one-off bowel screening test can prevent more than half of potential bowel cancers from developing and reduce deaths by two-thirds. The test is effective in reducing cancer deaths for at least 17 years, according to a study published in The Lancet.
Researchers identify a new species of ancient bristle worm, the largest fossil jaws ever recorded, suggesting the creature achieved a body length over a metre. The discovery sheds light on the phenomenon of gigantism in marine worms and its evolution in different species.
Scientists have identified a neutron star consuming material at an incredible rate, producing x-rays that exceed the Eddington limit by 1,000 times. The star's strong, multipolar magnetic field is believed to be responsible for its extreme properties.
Researchers found that acute kidney injury causes a buildup of indoxyl sulfate in the blood and lungs, leading to damage. Oral treatment with AST-120 decreases IS levels and improves lung function in animal models.
A new report led by Panthera suggests that Africa's protected parks and reserves can conserve up to 83,000 wild lions if well funded and managed. The study found that less than one third of the parks examined are currently conserving lions at more than 50% of their carrying capacity.
A new study by UNC School of Medicine researchers found that the IRS-1 protein plays a crucial role in maintaining vascular smooth muscle cell differentiation, which helps prevent atherosclerosis. In people with diabetes, low IRS-1 levels contribute to abnormal cellular proliferation and increased risk of heart disease.
Tropical Cyclone Bart has developed in the Southern Pacific Ocean, with NASA's Aqua satellite capturing an image of the storm on Feb. 21. The cyclone is elongated due to vertical wind shear and is moving east-southeast at a speed of 25.3 mph.
Researchers from Brigham and Women's Hospital and Massachusetts Institute of Technology have developed a method to grow large quantities of inner ear progenitor cells that convert into functional hair cells. The technique shows potential as a therapy for patients with hearing loss, particularly those caused by loud noises or toxic drugs.
Researchers are exploring how high salt intake can trigger an immune response contributing to chronic high blood pressure in females. Studies found that female salt-resistant rats produce nitric oxide, a powerful dilator of blood vessels, which takes pressure down and activates a protective immune response.
Researchers at Pitt have identified a new family of enzymes that can efficiently synthesize the complex polycyclic structures found in potent antimicrobial and antitumor alkaloids. This breakthrough enables the chemoenzymatic synthesis of these molecules, paving the way for potential drug discoveries.
A study of 28 commercial physician-rating websites found that patients can struggle to find relevant reviews due to poor search functionality and limited information about physicians.
A UC Riverside study found that chronic demyelination is closely linked to seizures in MS patients, with specific neurons being lost and hyperactivity increasing. The researchers hope to develop drugs aimed at reducing seizures, which could also benefit epilepsy patients.
A team of researchers at CIMA University has identified a new gene, FOSL1, which is critical in the development of lung and pancreatic cancers. Inhibiting this gene has been shown to drastically reduce tumor size in various experimental models.
Children's Mercy has developed a groundbreaking app called CHAMP to monitor single-ventricle babies, reducing mortality rates and improving patient care. The program uses Microsoft devices and services to track vital signs and trigger alerts for instant evaluation.
A study found male caregivers reported more successes than problems during the first year of caring for stroke survivor wives/partners. The men struggled to maintain their prior lives but ultimately built confidence through functional improvement and fostered success through positive attitudes.
Researchers have captured images of terahertz electron dynamics of a semiconductor surface on the atomic scale, unlocking a new window into the nanoworld. The breakthrough allows for ultrafast observation of atomic processes with unprecedented precision.
A recent study found that using a rabbit virus, myxoma virus, reduced tumor burden in preclinical studies and led to complete eradication of disease in a quarter of animals. The treatment elicited a strong immune response, suggesting its potential as a novel therapy for multiple myeloma.
Researchers at Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard discovered novel genetic mutations promoting antibiotic resistance in bacteria. These mutations enhance resistance to multiple classes of antibiotics, including non-ribosomal targets, while reducing growth rates.
Researchers discovered termites can detect predatory ants through subtle substrate vibrations, allowing them to evade danger. This unique ability could lead to advances in technologies based on acoustic signatures and potentially revolutionize pest control methods.
A team of scientists at the John Innes Centre has created a fast-growing broccoli line with the potential to deliver two full crops a season, reducing reliance on seasonal weather conditions. The new line can be grown in protected conditions or in urban farms, enabling continuous production and supply of fresh local produce.
Researchers conducted a double-blind placebo-controlled study on 30 patients with primary insomnia, finding that both neurofeedback and placebo-feedback were equally effective in improving subjective sleep complaints. However, objective EEG-derived measures of sleep quality did not show significant improvement.
Researchers found that man-made disruptions in natural flow patterns contribute to reductions in both the abundance and diversity of fish and insects. The study provides a scientific basis for establishing ecological flows in North Carolina's major river basins.
Prostate cancer cells grow with malfunction of cholesterol control in cells, a process that allows them to accumulate fat and stimulate uncontrolled growth. Identifying this process could inform the development of better ways to control cholesterol accumulation in tumors.
Cancer mortality rates vary significantly within the growing Hispanic population in the US, with wide variations among major ethnic groups. Key findings include higher mortality rates from stomach and prostate cancer, as well as lower rates for lung and breast cancer compared to non-Hispanic whites.
A new study reveals that the first breath of a newborn releases crucial signals that shape the lifelong immunological milieu of lungs. This process protects against environmental triggers but increases susceptibility to bacterial infections, such as pneumococci.
A new study investigated the potential role of North American animals as hosts for Zika virus. Researchers tested common animal species, including goats, pigeons, raccoons, and ducks, for infectious virus presence and antibodies. The findings suggest that these animals may serve as an unseen reservoir for Zika virus in urban environments.
Death rates from cancer are expected to decline faster in men than in women in Europe in 2017, with men predicted to fall by over 8% and women by around 4%. Lung cancer death rates will rise in women, but overall, fewer women than men will die from cancer.
Researchers developed a novel strategic framework to improve retention of minority, low-income children in randomized controlled trials. The framework was highly effective, with an attrition rate of only 11%, significantly lower than previous studies.
A team of scientists from UC Santa Barbara and colleagues conducted an eight-year study on a healthy shark population on Palmyra atoll. They found a significantly lower density of grey reef sharks than previously estimated, with around 20 sharks per square kilometer.
The BMJ warns that Trump's administration may damage health by suppressing research and limiting communication on scientific topics deemed politically inconvenient. This could harm public health efforts globally.
Scientists have engineered the smallest CRISPR-Cas9 system to date, capable of delivering gene editing to muscles and eyes via AAV. This technology targets age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and other 'undruggable' genes, offering a promising therapeutic tool.
Scientists at Stanford University and Sandia National Laboratories have developed an artificial synapse that mimics the human brain's efficient processing. This innovation could lead to the creation of more brain-like computers that can interpret visual and auditory signals with improved accuracy.
A Rice University study models the dynamic evolution of the microbial immune system, revealing a three-region phase diagram where phages thrive or are driven to extinction. The study explains confusing CRISPR experimental results by highlighting the importance of encounter rates and mutation parameters.
A new study found that cocaine addiction disrupts iron regulation in the body, leading to a build-up of iron in the brain. This accumulation is directly linked to the duration of cocaine use and may be accompanied by mild iron deficiency elsewhere in the body.
Four NYU faculty members have been awarded Sloan Foundation fellowships for their innovative research, transforming fields such as neuroscience, finance, and chemistry. Jayeeta Basu aims to understand long-term memory formation, while Johannes Stroebel focuses on financial decision-making of households.
A University of Toronto study has identified a gene that may strongly influence obesity in humans, similar to the foraging gene found in fruit flies. The study reveals that the human version of this gene plays multiple roles in feeding and metabolism.
Researchers developed predictive models that accurately anticipate the smell of molecules based on just a handful of features, outperforming traditional methods. The DREAM Olfaction Prediction Challenge demonstrated the potential for crowdsourced competition to advance our understanding of scent perception.
Scientists from India have discovered seven new frog species in the Western Ghats biodiversity hotspot, with four being miniature-sized and among the smallest known frogs. The discovery highlights the high diversity of Night Frogs in the region, particularly in diminutive forms.
Researchers at Michigan State University have shown that breast cancer treatment options can be predicted based on gene expression patterns. The study identified a three-drug combination effective in stopping triple-negative breast cancer growth and suggests a personalized approach to care.
A subset of genes involved in daily circadian rhythms become active late in life or during intense stress, helping to protect critical life functions. These 'late-life cyclers' may combat serious stresses associated with age, disease, or environmental challenges.
Researchers develop protocol to efficiently grow cochlear progenitor cells into large colonies with high capacity for differentiation, offering potential treatment for hearing loss. The approach, leveraging Wnt signaling and histone deacetylase inhibition, enables regeneration of sensory hair cells in multiple mammalian species.
A panel of international experts recommends abandoning the costly and ineffective treatment, citing a lack of benefit for outcomes important to patients. The guideline advises against using ultrasound therapy for bone healing after fracture, suggesting future research focus on other interventions that may speed up healing.
Researchers found that hormonal maintenance therapy significantly improved survival in women with low-grade serous carcinoma of the ovary/peritoneum. Women who received HMT showed an average progression-free survival of 64.9 months, compared to 26.4 months for those in the surveillance group.
The team created electronic devices using elastomeric nanosheet film that is 50 times more elastic than previously reported polymers. The new assembly method uses inkjet printing and low-temperature fixing to produce durable and functional devices that are ultra-thin and flexible.
In less than a year, researchers have developed multiple vaccine platforms providing robust protection against Zika virus challenge in animal models. However, safety considerations and unique challenges associated with the virus must be addressed in clinical development.
The SnowEx mission aims to determine which combination of sensors works best for collecting global snow-water measurements, critical for understanding and managing freshwater resources. The team will fly multiple airborne sensors over Grand Mesa, Colorado, to evaluate their performance in measuring snowpack properties and SWE.
The team will design and identify bactericides to target Huanglongbing, which has devastated citrus trees in Asia and South America. They will also develop a new delivery system for use in field citrus trees.
A recent study found that caregivers of black stroke survivors provided an average of 11 additional hours of care compared to white stroke survivors. Despite this greater time commitment, caregivers of black stroke survivors reported more positive aspects of caregiving, including increased confidence and satisfaction with their role.
Berger's Isomax material achieves low density and uncommon strength, making it suitable for various applications such as aerospace structures and robotic machines. The study's findings support the concept's potential for efficient fabrication and manufacturing.
Researchers developed an algorithm that uses Deep Learning to predict the decision of hematopoietic stem cells to become a certain cell type. This enables earlier detection and analysis of blood cell development, paving the way for new treatments and insights into developmental traits.
A new study from Germany found that MRI screening improved early diagnosis of breast cancer in women with an average risk of developing the disease. The study detected 60 additional cancers, including 40 invasive cancers, for an overall supplemental cancer detection rate of 15.5 per 1,000 women.
Researchers at the Medical University of South Carolina discover a peptide that reverses cardiac fibrosis and improves heart function without toxicity. The study uses a transverse aortic constriction mouse model to demonstrate the peptide's effectiveness in halting and reversing fibrotic ventricular wall thickness.
A study by Ohio State University researchers found that a Mediterranean diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods such as seafood and plant-based proteins can help reduce pain associated with obesity. The study also highlights the importance of diet quality over quantity in managing weight-related pain.
Studies published in JAMA and JAMA Internal Medicine found that testosterone treatment was associated with improved bone density and anemia in men with low testosterone. However, the studies also found no significant association between testosterone treatment and improved cognitive function or reduced risk of cardiovascular problems.
Researchers improve redox flow batteries by designing charge-storing molecules that are up to 1,000 times more stable than current compounds. This breakthrough aims to increase the capacity and efficiency of large batteries for grid storage, enabling full utilization of renewable energy sources.
A new study published in Circulation shows that supervised exercise training can improve the pumping function of a damaged heart and reduce hospitalization rates. Patients who performed 3,000 steps in 30 minutes at moderate intensity experienced significant benefits, including decreased strain on the heart and improved oxygen uptake.
The expansion of legal marijuana cultivation in US states is causing significant environmental damage, including high water and energy demands, local contamination, and air pollution. Researchers are urging the need for more studies on the industry to protect public health and the environment.
A new digital breast tomosynthesis technique has been shown to reduce screening recall rates and improve cancer detection, while minimizing radiation exposure. The technique, known as s2D mammography combined with DBT, detected 76.5% of invasive cancers at a lower rate than traditional methods.
Research by entomologists from the University of Lincoln found that female beetles control the duration of copulation, with kicking time remaining consistent when mated to the same partner. In contrast, mating to different partners resulted in varying kick times and durations.
A large-scale epidemiological study has uncovered common and unique risk factors for B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma (B-NHL) in Israeli and Palestinian populations. The study found that recreational sun exposure, black hair-dye use, and a history of hospitalization for infection were associated with an increased risk of B-NHL in both groups.
A study of nearly 12,000 records found that community-based palliative care reduced emergency department visits for dying patients by an average of two times per year. Patients receiving palliative care were more likely to live in urban areas and have a partner, leading to significant reductions in ER visits.
A team of researchers from the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) has discovered at least 47 possible start codons in DNA, which can trigger protein synthesis. This finding challenges the long-held assumption that only a small number of three-letter sequences in mRNA could initiate translation.
A study found that high EPA and DHA omega-3 levels in red blood cells were associated with a lower risk of all-cause mortality in postmenopausal women. Women aged 65-80 with the highest quartile of omega-3 blood levels were 20% less likely to die from any cause.
A study by NYU's Steinhardt School of Culture, Education, and Human Development found that teens with PTSD symptoms misidentify sad faces as fearful. Teens with conduct disorder tend to interpret sad faces as angry.
A study by Imperial College London predicts that average life expectancy will increase in 35 industrialised countries by 2030. The results show that South Korean women may live up to 90.8 years, while a 65-year-old woman can expect an additional 27.5 years of life.
A University of Pittsburgh-led study discovered that Japanese men who produce equol, a substance made by gut bacteria when metabolizing isoflavones, have lower levels of heart disease risk factors. The research suggests that equol production may hold the key to why some people derive a heart-protective benefit from eating soy foods.
Researchers have observed spectroscopically two distant asteroids and found their orbits are almost identical, suggesting a common origin. The team proposes that these asteroids were once a binary pair that separated after an encounter with a planet beyond Pluto's orbit.
Researchers warn that climate change will continue to shrink the Colorado River's flows, reducing water supplies for seven US Western states and Mexico. With temperatures projected to rise and precipitation uncertainty, future drought periods are likely, posing significant challenges for water managers.
NASA-NOAA's Suomi NPP satellite captured a visible image of Tropical Cyclone Alfred, showing half the storm over land and half in the Gulf of Carpentaria. The cyclone developed from a tropical low pressure area and made landfall near the Queensland-Northern Territory border, weakening to a remnant low pressure area.
The Cedars-Sinai Heart Institute is developing a biological pacemaker that can treat patients with slow heartbeats. The device turns normal heart cells into pacemaker cells using gene therapy, potentially replacing electronic pacemakers one day.
A new study suggests that performing coronary angioplasty through a wrist artery instead of the groin can improve patient outcomes and reduce healthcare costs. The procedure saves approximately $3,700 per patient and could result in a nationwide cost savings of $300 million annually.
Researchers have discovered how Listeria monocytogenes travels to fatally attack the placenta and fetus during early pregnancy in macaque monkeys, raising questions about current understanding of listeriosis risk. The study reveals clues that may lead to better screening and interventions during pregnancy.
Life expectancies in developed countries are projected to continue increasing, with South Korean women potentially surpassing 90 years old by 2030. The study predicts significant gains in life expectancy for men and women in several countries, including Australia, France, Japan, and the UK.
Current and former smokers with medical comorbidities are more likely to use e-cigarettes, which may be seen as a safer alternative to combustible cigarettes. The study found that e-cigarette use continues to rise, especially among present smokers with asthma or cardiovascular disease.
Researchers suggest an unseen population of gas giant planets may exist at distances similar to Jupiter and Saturn, resolving a long-standing debate about their formation. The predicted planets could be found using NASA's Wide Field Infrared Survey Telescope.
Researchers at University of Pennsylvania have successfully grown colloidal crystals with a diamond structure, enabling special optical properties. The material, called a photonic bandgap material, could revolutionize photonics and enable the construction of 'transistors' for light.
The Caenorhabditis Intervention Testing Program (CITP) identified Thioflavin T as the most robust pro-longevity chemical, extending lifespan in all strains tested. Six out of ten compounds significantly extended lifespan in at least one strain, with three dietary restriction mimetics showing variable responses across species.
Research found testosterone treatment improved bone density and anemia for men over 65 with low testosterone, while also increasing plaque buildup in coronary arteries. However, cognitive function remained unchanged.
A $420,000 grant has funded a two-year study on Enterovirus 71 (EV71), a relatively new virus compared to polio, which can cause paralysis in young children. The researcher hopes to develop specific and effective treatments for the illnesses caused by EV71.
Australian cathedral termites evolved from wood-feeding ancestors that migrated over vast distances and adapted to changing environments. Their massive mounds house millions of termites, showcasing remarkable engineering feats.
A new study suggests that the virus may have been circulating silently in the South Pacific since a large epidemic in 1979-80. Researchers found that many people born after the epidemic had antibodies to the virus, indicating local transmission.
A study published in PLOS Medicine found that modern houses with metal roofs and finished walls are associated with a reduced risk of malaria in children under age 5. The researchers analyzed data from 29 surveys in 21 African countries and found a significant correlation between improved housing conditions and lower malaria rates.
Researchers developed an adaptive control approach based on online learning to correct dynamics errors in real-time, improving robustness of motion systems. The DOOMED algorithm updates a correction model until correct acceleration is achieved, minimizing error between desired and actual accelerations.
Experts warn that routine screening may lead to overdiagnosis and inappropriate treatment. The US Preventive Services Task Force's liberal recommendations have sparked criticism, with some experts questioning the validity of the research methodologies used.
A new mouse model reveals that the Zika virus can cross the placenta and lead to high percentages of miscarriages and thin brain tissue in babies. The study's findings suggest a mechanism by which the virus may be evading antiviral proteins, highlighting potential targets for treatment or vaccine development.
A new study published in Psychological Medicine has found no link between cat ownership and psychotic symptoms in children. The research, which followed nearly 5,000 people from age 13 to 18, controlled for other factors such as household overcrowding and socioeconomic status.
A new study using an Apple Watch app found that seizures in people with epilepsy are often triggered by stress and missed sleep. The app, called EpiWatch, recorded participants' heart rate and movements for 10 minutes after a seizure to help researchers better understand the condition.
A two-step process has been developed to multiply stem cells found in the inner ear and convert them into hair cells, restoring partial hearing to mice. The researchers generated over 11,500 hair cells from a single mouse, offering hope for full hearing restoration in those with damaged hair cells.
A study published in JAMA and JAMA Internal Medicine found that testosterone treatment improved bone density and anemia, but not cognitive function, in older men with low testosterone. However, it also increased plaque buildup in coronary arteries, raising concerns about cardiac risk.
A new study by researchers at King's College London found that genetic factors play a significant role in anxiety related to spatial and mathematical tasks. The study identified several forms of anxiety, including general, mathematics, and spatial anxiety, with non-shared environments contributing to differences between individuals.
A new modeling technique determines the parameters that control glass relaxation fluctuations, helping to guide future glass composition development. Fluctuations in this behavior introduce uncertainty into the manufacturing process and can lead to misalignment of pixels within displays.