The journal highlights several notable research findings, including the benefits of quitting smoking abruptly, low-dose aspirin for cardiovascular prevention, and statins in rheumatoid arthritis. These updates aim to promote excellence in medicine and improve patient outcomes.
Researchers from the University of Delaware found that tree trunks in upland forests emit methane, while soils and coarse woody debris act as methane sinks. The study used state-of-the-art technology to measure fluxes of methane and carbon dioxide, revealing a previously unaccounted source of this potent greenhouse gas.
Compressive-sensing pioneer Richard Baraniuk has won a five-year, $3 million fellowship to explore new technologies using the field of signal processing. The grant will help broaden the applicability of compressive sensing and enable radically new sensing capabilities.
A study found that healthcare workers have the highest rate of flu vaccination coverage, at 62.3%, while construction workers have the lowest rate, at 18.7%. Increasing vaccination efforts can reduce influenza spread in workplaces.
A study published in Leukemia reveals an epigenetic lesion that correlates with the activation of a powerful oncogene capable of malignizing lymphocytes, leading to acute T-cell leukemia. The research suggests that targeting this gene may offer new treatment options for patients with this aggressive type of cancer.
Research at University of Bristol found that children and adolescents with Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC) have difficulty recognizing basic facial expressions. Despite this, the types of mistakes made by those with ASC were similar to those without ASC.
Researchers studied 15 thioredoxin proteins, including extinct sequences, to understand how they unfold at different temperatures. They found that proteins with similar structure but greater ability to tolerate heat unfold more slowly, making them useful for industrial processes.
A new online metabolic calculator developed by a University of Virginia doctor predicts patients' risk of developing heart disease and diabetes with higher accuracy than traditional methods. The tool takes into account multiple factors, including obesity, high blood pressure, and ethnicity, to provide a more comprehensive risk assessment.
A KSU engineer has patented a waterlike polymer that transforms into a ceramic at high temperatures, offering valuable thermal, optical and electronic properties. The liquid polymer can be mass-produced and used to create lightweight ceramics, jet engine blades and battery electrodes.
A study found that previous exposure to dengue, West Nile virus, or Zika can enhance the effects of Zika infection through antibody-dependent enhancement. The researchers used human antibodies from infected individuals in mice and observed reduced survival rates with low doses of these antibodies.
Scientists have discovered a synergistic effect between an anticancer and an antirheumatic drug, improving the former's ability to kill off cancer cells. The combination works by interacting with the cell's DNA, disrupting normal function and causing cell death.
A study in Limnology & Oceanography Letters reveals that biological organisms achieve high population extremes in Midwestern lakes, defying expectations. Researchers found frequent records being set across variables like fish populations, plant growth, and plankton numbers, indicating a need to reassess ecological limits.
A new RIT study confirms the coexistence of satellite galaxies and dark matter, shedding light on a long-standing debate. The research supports the current cosmological paradigm by showing that the vast polar structure of dwarf galaxies is an unstable feature that formed later in the galaxy's evolution.
Researchers have designed a molecular 'paintbrush' technique to trigger, control, and monitor cellular processes. The technology, called Molecular Activity Painting, uses light-activated molecular building blocks to induce patterned contractions in living cells.
Applied mathematicians at Harvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences developed a framework to better understand and control the fabrication of optical microstructures. The researchers used this framework to grow sophisticated optical microcomponents, including resonators, waveguides, and beam splitters.
A team of scientists has unlocked the secret of a gold-based catalyst that converts coal-derived acetylene to vinyl chloride monomer (VCM), a precursor to polyvinyl chloride (PVC). The catalyst, which employs atomically dispersed gold on a solid support, reduces toxic mercury pollution and enables environmentally friendly PVC production.
A study found that the carbon footprint of acquisitive and violent crime dropped from 7 million tonnes CO2e in 1995 to below 3 million tonnes CO2e by 2015. This represents a cumulative reduction of 54 million tonnes CO2e over this period, alongside a 30% decrease in crime.
The new composite fibers, developed in collaboration with NASA, have strong interlocking connections that make them less prone to cracking and seal the material to prevent oxygen from changing its chemical composition. The fibers are also resistant to high temperatures and can make entire turbo engines significantly lighter.
A new study analyzed 41 genomes to determine how Cyanobacteria evolved oxygenic photosynthesis, finding that it likely occurred through lateral gene transfer in Oxyphotobacteria after divergence from the Melainabacteria group around 2.5-2.6 billion years ago
A team of experts presents exceptional photographs documenting the loss of ice across Earth's surface. The images showcase the devastating effects of climate change on glaciers, a consequence of anthropogenic carbon emissions. GSA Today article highlights the urgent need for action to address this issue.
Researchers create new material that can treat pollutants in water using sunlight, addressing a majority of contaminants. The material's reusability is now a challenge, as it deactivates after use.
Researchers from the University of Cambridge and beyond develop a new type of material that uses rotatable molecules to emit light faster than ever before. This breakthrough could lead to more power-efficient, brighter, and longer-lasting TVs, smartphones, and room lights.
A study published in PLOS Computational Biology reveals that people's attitudes towards effort, delay, and risk drift towards those of others due to a phenomenon known as false-consensus bias. This bias increases with small differences in attitude alignment but decreases with larger ones.
Researchers at Boston University School of Medicine have developed a novel approach to generate airway cells from stem cells using the Wnt signaling pathway. These cells can be grown into three-dimensional spheres and used to study lung diseases such as cystic fibrosis.
A new method to identify baby sea turtles' sex has been developed using an immunohistochemical approach, increasing the accuracy of sex determination for leatherback turtles. The technique, which uses a RNA-binding protein, achieved 100% success agreement with established methods in leatherbacks and 93% in loggerheads.
A new tyrannosaur species, Daspletosaurus horneri, has been discovered with an unusual mode of evolution called anagenesis. The research reveals a complex sensory web derived from the trigeminal nerve, similar to humans, and a lipless mask of large scales covering its face.
Researchers at Tokyo Medical and Dental University developed a new process to improve the detection of cancer stem cells in brain tumors. The approach uses iron chelation to increase fluorescence levels, allowing for more accurate identification and removal of these cells. This breakthrough has potential to translate to clinical practice.
A genome-wide association study reveals three novel genomic loci linked to Fuchs endothelial corneal dystrophy (FECD), a condition affecting the cornea and causing progressive vision loss. The findings provide new insights into the disease's pathology and potential therapeutic targets.
Researchers using NASA's Chandra X-ray Observatory detected a brief, intense X-ray flare from a small galaxy 10.7 billion light years away. The source is thought to be either a gamma-ray burst not directed towards Earth or the destruction of a white dwarf star, but its exact nature remains unknown.
Researchers found that introducing dynamic tax/sanctions and work subsidies can help people commit to long-run goals, leading to increased employment and welfare participation rates. In contrast, focusing on short-term payoffs results in reduced earnings and government expenditure.
A study from Penn State College of Medicine found that a patient's confidence in scheduling and conducting their part in colorectal screening methods is crucial in determining their intention to get screened. Self-efficacy emerged as the most important factor, reflecting knowledge, experience, or understanding of the testing options.
The US burden of neurological disease is estimated to be nearly $800 billion/year, with costs projected to grow as the elderly population doubles between 2011 and 2050. The American Neurological Association commissioned a study detailing the annual cost of nine key neurological diseases and disorders.
A balance test that stimulates part of the brain with cold water has shown promising results in improving insight into illness in people with schizophrenia. The study found that cold water in one ear increased patients' awareness and insight into their condition, while cold water in the other ear worsened it.
Researchers grew stem cells from children with Pelizaeus-Merzbacher Disease to understand the genetic causes of common symptoms. The study identified defects in brain cell function linked to patient genetics, suggesting distinct subgroups requiring different clinical approaches.
A clinical study published in New England Journal of Medicine shows that a single dose of siRNA can significantly reduce LDL cholesterol levels by up to 52.6% after two doses, offering long-lasting protection for high-risk patients.
Researchers discovered Rossby waves on the sun, similar to jet streams on Earth, which may allow for long-term space weather forecasting. The waves drive solar flares and coronal mass ejections, enabling predictions of flare occurrences.
Researchers have discovered a key protein involved in photorespiration, a process that wastes energy and fixed carbon in plants. The Bile Acid Sodium Symporter 6 (BASS6) protein could be manipulated to increase plant productivity by reducing losses from this process.
A clinical trial found that brain and lung cancer patients can safely receive high doses of vitamin C, which increases sensitivity to radiation and chemotherapy. The study also showed that altered iron metabolism in cancer cells leads to increased death caused by vitamin C.
CARB-X is investing $24 million to support 11 biotech companies in developing new life-saving antibacterials and diagnostics. The pipeline includes three potential new classes of small molecule antibiotics, four non-traditional products, and seven new molecular targets against Gram-negative bacteria.
Astronomers identify sun-like star associated with a Type Ia supernova, sparking investigation into its potential role in the white dwarf's demise. Further studies are needed to confirm if this star is indeed the culprit behind a white dwarf's fiery explosion.
Researchers at Tufts University successfully treated blind tadpoles with a serotonin receptor drug to induce nerve growth and promote visual learning, enabling the animals to process visual information from their grafted eyes. The study provides a potential road map for promoting innervation in regenerative medicine.
Researchers at NUS identified weak spots on the surface of the dengue virus that can be targeted with therapies and vaccines, providing a promising avenue for treating the disease.
Aging impairs immune performance by breaking down cell coordination and increasing gene expression variability. Single-cell sequencing reveals the impact on CD4+ T cells, with older tissues showing less coordinated responses.
A study found that triethylene glycol (TEG), an active component of Ashwagandha, induces non-rapid eye movement sleep significantly and changes rapid eye movement sleep slightly. TEG's physiologically sound sleep is comparable to normal sleep, offering a potential natural solution for insomnia and related disorders.
A new Oxford University collaboration analyzed mosquito wing movements to understand flight dynamics. The study revealed two novel aerodynamic mechanisms, including trailing-edge vortices and rotational drag, that enable high-frequency flight.
A team of scientists from Lund University has successfully created an iron-based molecule capable of emitting light. The breakthrough could lead to the development of sustainable and environmentally friendly materials for solar cells, lighting, and displays.
A new study reveals that tropical forest fragmentation leads to increased carbon emissions by a third, with edges releasing more CO2 due to unfavourable micro-climates. Researchers used satellite images and developed software to map forest fragments worldwide.
A collaborative project led by Clemson University aims to improve and simplify large-scale data analysis using the Scientific Data Analysis at Scale (SciDAS) system. The goal is to provide a more fluid and flexible system for researchers to analyze vast datasets, enabling faster discovery and complex computations.
Researchers have identified a novel pathway that allows green algae to reset its circadian clock when exposed to red or violet light. The study reveals the existence of at least two different pathways in algae that sense and respond to different colors of light.
Research by Fordham University found that gender-neutral restrooms in schools have a significant impact on the overall school security, self-esteem, and grades of trans students. The study also highlighted demographic disparities by gender, race, and sexual orientation in school facilities.
Researchers found that fang blenny venom contains a neuropeptide, lipase, and opioid peptide, which cause a sudden drop in blood pressure in predators. This leads to disorientation and can help the fish escape. The venom's unique components have also inspired mimicry among other fish.
A new method developed by Deva Ramanan and Peiyun Hu reduces error rates for detecting tiny faces in images by a factor of two, resulting in 81% accuracy. The approach leverages context, including body shapes and crowd compositions, to improve object detection.
A study at Massachusetts General Hospital found that two major types of brain tumors, astrocytomas and oligodendrogliomas, may originate from the same type of neural progenitor cells. The analysis revealed differences in gene mutation patterns and tumor microenvironments between the two subtypes.
A study of 365,380 NIH grants found that nearly 10% directly generate patents and over 30% cited by patents, emphasizing the critical role of publicly funded R&D in technological benefits.
A study by Rice University psychologists found that people who feel lonely report more severe cold symptoms than those with stronger social networks. The research suggests that loneliness can increase the severity of acute illnesses like the common cold.
A new study using a digital library and machine reading system has unraveled the mystery of ancient stromatolite formation. Stromatolites, contorted layers formed by microbes, are rare in modern oceans due to changes in seawater chemistry.
Researchers at the University of Konstanz have proven the existence of Mermin-Wagner fluctuations, which grow logarithmically with system size and prevent crystal formation over long ranges. In contrast, small systems can exhibit crystal formation.
Researchers at ETH Zurich have developed a method to create nanoparticles with dysprosium atoms that can be magnetised and maintain their magnetic information. The scientists are now looking to stabilise the magnetisation at higher temperatures and longer periods of time.
Researchers created a genome-wide map of genes switched on and off in aggressive uterine cancer tumors, revealing a 'signature' of these switches throughout the genome. This discovery supports the idea that cancer cells suffer from an 'identity crisis', switching off specific genes to spread quickly.
Researchers have discovered the evolutionary history of cyanobacteria, the microorganisms responsible for 'inventing' oxygen-producing photosynthesis. The study found that Oxyphobacteria were the only group to evolve this process, with oxygenic photosynthesis arising around 2.3 billion years ago.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine found that learning a new task involving the hands can also improve performance with the foot, as measured by changes in brain activity between the motor cortex and cerebellum. This study demonstrates the brain's ability to adapt and transfer motor knowledge across body parts.
Researchers found that a transient increase in intracellular calcium ions causes cell deformation and contributes to neural tube formation in African clawed frogs. The pattern of fluctuation in calcium ions is complex, with local and transient rises causing morphological changes.
Researchers found that melt ponds in Arctic waters provide a nutrient-rich environment for algae and bacteria to grow, supporting marine life. This increase in productivity could lead to more food available for creatures such as seals, sea cucumbers, and fish in the polar seas.
A study by the American Psychological Association found that people who feel lonely experience worse cold symptoms than those who don't, regardless of their social network size. The researchers studied 159 participants and discovered that feeling lonely had a greater impact on symptoms than actual loneliness.
The PREDIMED study reveals a protective association between legume consumption, especially lentils, and the risk of developing subsequent type 2 diabetes. Legumes rich in B vitamins and fibre help improve human health and lower blood glucose levels slowly after consumption.
A new study analyzing over 50,000 patients with prostate cancer reveals a significant link between androgen deprivation therapy and dementia risk, suggesting that long-term use of this therapy may impact brain function. The findings also hint at a possible association between the treatment and Alzheimer's disease.
Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center found that combining five simple tests provides a broader and more accurate assessment of heart-disease risk. The tests, including an EKG, blood tests, and imaging, better predict who will develop heart disease compared to standard strategies.
A study analyzing data from three national databases found significant racial gaps in immediate breast reconstruction (IBR) after mastectomy, with white patients having the highest rate of IBR. The disparities were similar among women with ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS), and were up to 50% in California.
A Hungarian-American team suggests that standard models of the universe fail to account for its changing structure, eliminating the need for dark energy. The new model shows how the formation of complex structures affects the expansion, providing an alternative explanation for the acceleration.
International research effort has advanced agriculture in space and led to Earth-based advances, including LED lighting and new seed potato propagation techniques. Plants will be a major component of proposed regenerative life-support systems for human space exploration, providing food, oxygen, and aiding water recycling.
A recent study found that group meditation using the Transcendental Meditation program significantly reduced urban murder rates in large US cities, with an estimated 4,136 murders averted between 2007-2010. The reductions were consistent with the hypothesis that a sufficiently large group practice creates a positive effect on society.
A new computational model simulates the role of the brain in Tourette syndrome, suggesting that motor tics arise from interactions between multiple brain areas. The model predicts how dysfunctions in neural circuits can lead to an increased number of tics, which could aid in identifying new treatment targets.
A UMD study found fruit flies taking naps had strongest resistance to fungal infection and bacteria Pseudomonas aeruginosa, which is a major human disease-causing agent. The research identified genes that contribute to overall immune system resistance, providing new insights into human health.
A new imaging tool can rapidly diagnose bacterial lung infections, helping prevent unnecessary antibiotic use and reducing the emergence of resistant bacteria. The bedside technology has received £2million in funding and aims to revolutionize the assessment and treatment of critically ill patients and those with long-term lung conditions.
New measurements reveal that 66% of Mars' argon has disappeared from its thin atmosphere since formation, leading to huge climate changes. The research suggests that Mars once had a thicker atmosphere composed mainly of carbon dioxide, which was largely lost due to solar wind bombardment.
A collaborative study reveals the molecular details of the relationship between Brugia malayi and its endosymbiotic bacteria, Wolbachia. The researchers found that Wolbachia plays a critical role in worm reproduction and survival, making it an essential target for novel drug development.
A new sensor system can continuously monitor the quality of engine oil in combined heat and power plants, providing reliable feedback on its condition and detecting potential deterioration. This enables operators to schedule maintenance more conveniently and reduce the risk of costly engine damage.
A recent study reveals that rearranging nest boxes increases the return of blue orchard bees to managed sites, leading to higher nesting success and potential for sustainable commercial pollination. The experiment found a uniform nest-box distribution resulted in significantly higher nesting by all three factors measured.
Scientists at ORNL and NCSU report growing graphene nanoribbons without a metal substrate, enabling controlled creation of interfaces with different electronic properties. This breakthrough addresses limitations in graphene's application in digital electronics.
A PolyU research team has developed a fast, affordable and accurate 3D fingerprint identification system. The system uses a single camera and LED lights to capture high-frequency information in 3D fingerprints, achieving an accuracy of around 97%.
A new MIT study reveals that 31% of NIH grants contribute to private-sector patents in biomedicine, while 8% generate patents directly. The research shows no significant difference between 'basic' and 'applied' research grants in terms of patent generation.
Scientists at NC State develop technique to convert positively charged rGO into negatively charged material, enabling the creation of rGO-based transistors. The method uses high-powered laser pulses to disrupt chemical groups, creating a p-n junction that's crucial for transistor applications.
The study found that most of the Martian gas has been lost to space due to solar wind and radiation stripping, altering the planet's climate and habitability. The loss of argon and CO2 indicates that the atmosphere was once warm enough to support liquid water and life.
A UK expert argues that by working together, police and health agencies can identify and address violence hotspots, reducing the number of injuries on America's streets. The 'Cardiff Model' has already shown promising results in reducing violence in the UK.
A consortium of UK universities has been awarded £3 million to establish a national high-performance computing facility for machine learning. The Joint Academic Data Science Endeavour (JADE) will provide computational resources for researchers in machine learning and data science.
Research suggests that biodiversity is linked to lower infectious disease prevalence in people, contradicting concerns that intact ecosystems pose a danger. However, animal species do not present an equal threat of disease transmission, and some families like rodents transmit disease more commonly than others.
Astronomers have discovered three young stars that were ejected from an unstable multi-star system, providing new clues to the breakup of such systems. The stars are moving at speeds of up to nearly 30 times faster than most other stars in the same region.
A study found that higher doses of vitamin C, particularly 8g per day, significantly reduced the duration of common cold symptoms. The findings suggest a dose-dependent effect and could lead to improved treatment options for individuals with common colds.
Researchers at Boston University School of Medicine studied Zika virus-infected cells using light and electron microscopy, revealing dramatic changes in cell architecture. These findings support the development of new therapeutics targeting both Zika and related viruses like Dengue.
Researchers at San Diego Zoo Global discovered that compatible panda personalities play a crucial role in breeding success. The study found that certain traits, such as excitability and aggression, are more effective when paired together.
The Graphene Experience Zone at GSMA Mobile World Congress 2017 featured 20 demonstrators and prototypes showcasing graphene-enhanced mobile technologies. Key highlights included the BAC Mono graphene-enhanced car, which improved fuel efficiency and performance.
Researchers found significant ethnic differences in visual function among Chinese, Malay, and Indian participants with age-related macular degeneration. Visual acuity was poorer in Chinese participants with early or late AMD, while Malay participants showed a trend of worsening visual function with increasing AMD severity.
Exposure to Gardnerella vaginalis, a common vaginal bacterium, awakens dormant E. coli and triggers recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs) in mice. The study suggests that G. vaginalis damage to bladder tissue can lead to reactivation of E. coli infection.
A new study reveals that a higher risk of transplant failure is associated with a 28% increase in weight compared to the donor, as well as a 35-50% relative risk for opposite-sex kidney transplants. This highlights the importance of considering donor and recipient matching beyond current immunology-based protocols.
Researchers found that short-duration heat waves can prevent coffee plants from producing flowers and fruit. Younger leaves are particularly vulnerable to heat stress, which can exacerbate the effects of drought.
Researchers randomized 345 patients with type 1 reactions to receive either prednisone or prednisone plus azathioprine for varying durations. While all groups showed some improvement in symptoms, azathioprine failed to reduce recurrence rates or improve outcomes for nerve damage compared to standard treatment.
Researchers at UAB have designed triple-threat cancer-fighting polymer capsules that can deliver drugs to tumors while protecting against collateral damage. The capsules show good imaging contrast, stably encapsulate cancer drugs, and can be triggered by low- or high-power ultrasound to release their cargo.
A recent study published in Science reveals that public funding for biomedical research is essential for driving innovation. The analysis found that 30% of NIH-funded grants generate articles that are subsequently cited by commercial patents, highlighting the importance of publicly-funded research in informing commercial innovation.
A team of scientists used Met Office technology to study climate change and predicted the behavior of proteins within human cells. They discovered that tail-anchored membrane proteins are routed to specific organelles based on their chemical properties, such as charge and hydrophobicity.
NASA analyzed heavy rainfall from ex-Tropical Cyclone Debbie using the Terra satellite, finding totals exceeded 500 mm (~ 20 inches) along parts of its track. Rainfall intensities dropped rapidly as the storm moved over land, with the most extreme falls recorded along the coast where it made landfall.
The fang blenny's opioid peptides inhibit pain rather than cause it, making them a potential source of new painkillers. The unique venom also gives the fish an advantage in the wild, allowing it to escape predators or defeat competitors.
Researchers found that certain white blood cells, known as BK virus-specific CD8 killer T lymphocytes, significantly increase in patients who can control the virus. These cells can be propagated in cell cultures and may contribute to developing vaccines and adoptive T-cell therapy.
A study found that adding a question about blood thinner use improves sensitivity for identifying traumatic intracranial hemorrhage. Researchers analyzed charts for 2,100 patients and suggested that medication history should be available to EMS providers to ensure timely treatment.
A new study found that a type of vaginal bacteria, Gardnerella vaginalis, can trigger recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs) by damaging bladder cells and allowing E. coli to multiply. The researchers suggest that this may be why some women experience UTIs after having sex.
Researchers at Princeton University found that the brain's hippocampus plays a broader role in memory and learning, involved in both spatial navigation and cognitive tasks. The study used rats to explore sound frequencies and showed similar neural activity patterns as those seen when navigating physical environments.
Researchers have successfully visualized the development of blood vessels in zebrafish embryos without labels or contrast agents, enabling better understanding of brain and cardiovascular diseases. The new study uses optical resolution photoacoustic microscopy to provide three-dimensional images with high spatial resolution.