A recent study found that cannabis use among older Americans is increasing, with most users taking it less than once a week. The study suggests that social attitudes, state laws, and individual health needs are shaping these paths, and recommends a national survey to inform public policy.
Researchers at Case Western Reserve University have directly measured the diffusion length of perovskite solar films, showing that electrons can travel long distances without deteriorating. The findings suggest that solar cells could be made thicker without harming their efficiency, potentially leading to better solar panels.
Duke University researchers have solved the molecular structure of MurJ, a key protein in bacterial cell wall construction. The discovery could aid in the development of new antibiotics to combat mounting antibacterial resistance.
A study of robot use in a retirement home found that seniors preferred companion robots with serious dementias and assistant robots with playful demeanors. The findings suggest that robot design could play a crucial role in promoting healthy interactions between seniors and robots.
A study published in The Lancet found a link between stress and increased risk of heart disease and stroke, with heightened amygdala activity associated with higher cardiovascular risk. Researchers suggest that stress may lead to cardiovascular disease through a biological mechanism involving the bone marrow and arteries.
A new study found that trees worldwide develop thicker bark when living in fire-prone areas, suggesting bark thickness could predict which forests will survive a warmer climate. Trees in fire-prone regions have thicker bark than those in tropical rainforests, indicating a link between bark thickness and fire resistance.
Scientists at the Institute of Physical Chemistry of Poland have developed a new method to monitor oxygen consumption by bacteria in microdroplets, enabling efficient testing of new drugs. The system uses polymer nanoparticles with phosphorescent dyes to measure oxygen levels without interfering with bacterial growth.
A USGS-led study found that high temperatures and lower humidity kill off ticks that transmit Lyme disease, making it less common in the South. The researchers discovered that southern black-legged ticks tend to stay hidden under leaves to retain moisture, increasing their survival rates.
A new study found that chain restaurants participating in a National Restaurant Association initiative made no significant changes to the nutritional quality of their children's menus. Despite individual restaurant pledges to reduce sugary drinks, they still made up 80% of kids' beverage options.
A new study from Uppsala University identifies a group of microorganisms, Asgard archaea, that provide insights into the evolutionary transition from simple to complex cells. The discovery sheds light on how eukaryotic cells evolved their complexity and suggests a possible mechanism for this process.
The study identifies seven scenarios of pathogen movement and disease epidemics, posing significant threats to economically important eucalypt plantations and native ecosystems. Biosecurity failures are linked to poorly controlled germplasm movement, underscoring the need for enhanced surveillance and regulation.
A team of researchers at Berkeley Lab used a unique infrared probe to pinpoint areas on single metallic particles where chemical reactivity occurs. This technique reveals the detailed chemistry occurring on the surface of particles, enabling customization of structural properties for more effective catalysis.
Researchers at McGill University Health Centre have made a groundbreaking epigenetic modification that may improve treatment options for 15% of patients with head and neck cancer. The discovery could lead to targeted, more effective treatments with fewer side effects.
Researchers successfully used CRISPR-Cas9 technology to repair genetic mutations in blood stem cells of patients with chronic granulomatous disease, a rare and life-threatening disorder. The engineered cells maintained their gene edits long-term without side effects when implanted into mice.
Physicists at NIST have cooled a mechanical object to a temperature lower than previously thought possible, below the so-called
A study published in Conservation Letters found that the EU's Ecological Focus Areas (EFA) initiative has little benefit for biodiversity and farmers, despite being implemented since 2015. Fallow land was the only EFA option considered worthwhile by both ecologists and farmers.
A new study published in the Journal of Urology found that men with prostate cancer who experience high levels of emotional distress are more likely to choose aggressive treatment options, such as surgery and radiation therapy. The researchers suggest that providing clearer information about prognosis and strategies for dealing with an...
A study found that chimpanzees are more likely to reproduce with mates whose genetic makeup differs from their own, suggesting a unique mating strategy. This preference may help reduce inbreeding depression and increase infant survival rates among chimps.
A University of North Carolina researcher argues that integrating patient-reported symptoms into clinical practice can improve patient outcomes. Despite demonstrated benefits, cost and technology barriers prevent the widespread adoption of electronic symptom reporting.
Emerging reproductive technologies like IVG hold promise for treating infertility and diseases, but also raise scientific, legal, and ethical challenges. The authors call for proactively addressing these concerns to ensure the technology is developed responsibly.
Researchers discovered a strong link between proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) and an increased risk of infectious gastroenteritis. People taking PPIs are up to 70% more likely to be hospitalized for this illness. The study used data from the Sax Institute's 45 and Up Study to examine cases in Australians over 45.
Researchers discovered flaviviruses like Dengue and Zika use an unexpected mechanism to hijack human cell machinery, suppressing translation initiation while promoting viral protein synthesis. This finding may reveal new targets for designing antiviral therapies.
New research reveals that type I interferons impair the humoral response to chronic viral infections, such as HCV and HIV. The study suggests that blocking B cell IFN-I receptors can restore antigen-specific responses, providing a potential therapeutic approach.
A new study found that chair yoga significantly reduced pain and improved functional ability in older adults with osteoarthritis. The 8-week program also showed long-term benefits, with reductions in pain interference lasting three months after completion.
Researchers have demonstrated a new type of laser using bound states in the continuum, which can be more compact and energy-efficient. This technology has the potential to revolutionize telecommunications and computing applications.
A new study from the University of Georgia's Terry College of Business found that top NBA players can create positive spillover effects on their teammates' productivity. Research suggests that employees with high spillover values can make a significant impact on team success and should be compensated accordingly.
Astronomers have discovered giant halos of scattered photons around early Milky Way type galaxies, indicating that only a small percentage of light emitted by distant stars can escape these galaxies. The study uses the Isaac Newton Telescope to survey almost 1000 distant galaxies and measures the amount and location of Lyman-alpha phot...
New research reveals that the Milky Way's black hole can create hundreds of planet-mass objects, which are then flung throughout the galaxy. These objects, known as 'spitballs,' could be detected by future telescopes and may pose a challenge to distinguish from free-floating planets.
Research reveals that top-grossing PG-13 movies have more frequent and graphic gun violence than comparable R-rated films, with little attention to consequences. The study suggests that Hollywood prioritizes action-oriented films over responsible portrayals of gun violence, raising concerns about its impact on children.
Researchers developed a new method to detect trace levels of cannabinoids in breast milk, which could help determine health risks for infants exposed through second-hand use.
Researchers at Newcastle University have discovered a 'pedal bin machine' of gut bacteria that acquires nutrients in the human large bowel. The study provides fundamental insights into the functioning of the microbiota and its role in human health and nutrition.
The article discusses protein engineering techniques used in synthetic biology, including rational design, de novo design, directed evolution, and combinatorial approaches. These methods have been widely adopted in the biomedical and biotechnological sectors, with recent patents obtained using engineered proteins.
The Damon Runyon Cancer Research Foundation has awarded nearly $4 million in fellowships to 16 early-career researchers, providing them with independence to pursue innovative projects. The foundation's Breakthrough Scientist Awards also recognize three researchers who have made paradigm-shifting breakthroughs in cancer research.
A study published in The EMBO Journal found that cocaine-induced place preference in mice is independent of lasting NAc neuronal rewiring. Silent synapse formation and unsilencing during withdrawal are essential for many addictive behaviors but not for this specific behavior.
A recent study by Michigan State University finds that US households may struggle to afford water services due to rising rates and aging infrastructure, impacting 11.9% of households currently and potentially tripling to 35.6% in five years.
A novel treatment targets Graft-Versus-Host Disease (GVHD) by inhibiting Aurora kinase A and JAK2, preserving immune system function. The study shows promising results in mice, potentially offering a more effective and selective prevention strategy.
A study analyzing Instagram data reveals a growing trend of hookah use in social settings and nightlife establishments. The research found that promotional material on social media is driving the increase in hookah use, often paired with alcohol consumption.
The USDA's National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) is providing $540,000 in funding for State and regional projects that offer education, assistive technology, and other support to farmers and ranchers with disabilities. These projects aim to improve accessibility and inclusivity in agriculture.
A team of scientists has identified a mechanism to counteract Ebola's ability to spread, revealing that host cells sequester viral proteins away from the plasma membrane. This discovery could lead to a novel antiviral strategy against Ebola.
Research by Brigham Young University professor Sarah M. Coyne found that children who frequently engage with superhero culture are more likely to be physically and relationally aggressive. However, the study also suggests that parents can find a balance between allowing their kids to enjoy superheroes while promoting prosocial behavior.
A study by University of Florida researchers found that people generally believe in free will despite physical constraints, and this belief influences their opinions on policy. The findings support the philosophy of libertarian paternalism, which balances individual freedom with gentle nudges towards better behavior.
A study by MGH and ISSMS investigators has linked brain activity to cardiovascular disease, identifying a pathway from the amygdala through inflammation to cardiovascular events. Elevated amygdalar activity was strongly associated with increased risk of heart attack and stroke.
UNSW biomedical engineers create 'smart' fabric that mimics periosteum's complex properties, with potential applications in protective suits, compression bandages, and steel-belt radial tyres. The technique involves scaling up nature's architectural patterns to produce multidimensional fabrics.
Researchers at NYU Langone Health discovered that Streptococcus pneumoniae secretes pneumolysin toxin to exploit host immune defenses. This helps the bacteria survive on human airways and exit the body, ultimately spreading to a new host.
Research by Dr René Proyer found that playful adults can reinterpret situations, reducing stress levels and improving relationships. The study identified four types of playful adults: other-directed, intellectual, and whimsical playfulness.
A new study from the University of Missouri Health Care found that using electronic health records can improve patient care on warfarin after discharge. The EHR system provides a comprehensive health summary for each admitted patient, making it easier for providers to access and manage warfarin therapy.
Researchers at Stanford University School of Medicine have discovered that diabetes impairs the activity of bone stem cells, leading to impaired fracture healing. A newly identified protein stimulates the activity of skeletal stem cells, counteracting this decrease and promoting efficient fracture repair.
Research suggests that up to 40% of natural grasslands worldwide have potential for increased livestock grazing, leading to a 5% increase in milk production and 4% in meat production. The study highlights the importance of considering seasonal constraints and socioeconomic factors in unlocking this potential.
The Journal of 3D Printing in Medicine covers all aspects of bioprinting and 3D printing relevant to medicine, providing a forum for research, reviews, and commentary. The journal presents key data and opinions on emerging developments in the field.
Scientists developed a biosensor that can detect cancer proteins in serum samples, allowing for early detection of tumors. The method is faster and more accurate than traditional methods, with a 440-fold higher sensitivity.
A study by UC Riverside researchers shows that a western diet leads to overeating and obesity due to elevated peripheral endocannabinoid signaling. This therapeutic approach targets cannabinoid receptors in the periphery, holding promise as a safe treatment for overeating and diet-induced obesity.
Research has discovered a new biological target for reducing tumour spread in cancer patients. The Spns2 gene was found to be involved in regulating the spread of cancers, with targeting it leading to a three-quarters reduction in tumour spread.
A new plant species, Espeletia praesidentis, has been named to honor Colombian President Juan Manuel Santos' peace efforts. The discovery highlights the country's biodiversity hotspots and conservation challenges in these regions.
Researchers at University of Illinois Chicago are studying bacterial chemical signals to manipulate sickness-causing microorganisms into a nonhostile state. By understanding the molecular mechanisms of these signals, scientists aim to develop new alternatives to antibiotics that fight bacterial infections.
Scientists have determined that hyoliths, extinct cone-shaped animals with mineralized external skeletons, are more closely related to brachiopods than molluscs. The discovery sheds light on the evolutionary history of these ancient creatures and their place in the tree of life.
A new lab technology in mouse studies could create embryos from sources like repurposed skin cells, offering potential benefits for infertility patients. However, it also raises concerns about ethics and the possibility of 'embryo farming' on a large scale.
Adaptive PCR, a new method developed by Vanderbilt University biomedical engineers, uses left-handed DNA to monitor and control PCR reactions. This approach promises to simplify PCR operation, improve reliability, reduce sensitivity to environmental conditions, and enable handheld size.
A new study reveals that grazing pressures compound drought stress, delaying recovery and reducing ecosystems' tipping points. Grazing animals and fungal pathogens can kill drought-weakened vegetation, preventing plants from recovering.
Scientists have developed a new instrument capable of detecting life with unprecedented sensitivity, potentially uncovering signs of life on Mars and other planetary bodies. The method uses capillary electrophoresis to analyze soil or ice samples for specific amino acids that could serve as indicators of biological activity.
A team of researchers from Northwestern University studied the exoskeleton of the Cotinis mutabilis beetle using nanomechanics. They discovered unique fibers with higher density along the length than transverse, leading to improved mechanical properties and inspiring new artificial materials.