Researchers have determined that MRE can accurately measure liver fibrosis in children, a major determinant of clinical outcomes. The study's results suggest that MRE may be useful for monitoring the progression or improvement in children with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD).
New research finds that suppressing thyroid hormone receptor activity locally in the retina protects cone photoreceptor cells, slowing cell death and prolonging their life span. The study suggests a therapeutic strategy for treating retinal degeneration using topical medications or eyedrops.
Dr. Douglas C. Wallace received the Benjamin Franklin Medal in Life Science for his groundbreaking research on mitochondrial genetics. His work defined the genetics of DNA within mitochondria and reconstructed patterns of human evolution.
Climate researchers predict an irreversible inflow of warm water under the ice shelf due to rising air temperatures above the Weddell Sea. The resulting meltwater feedback cycle could lead to dramatic melting and collapse of the second-largest ice shelf in Antarctica.
A phase 1 trial of oncolytic HSV-1, HSV1716, demonstrates safety and tolerability in pediatric patients with relapsed or refractory solid tumors. The study found no dose-limiting toxicities and mild transient adverse events, suggesting a promising path for future investigations.
A Scripps Institution of Oceanography research team discovered bacteria in marine sponges produce toxic compounds nearly identical to man-made fire retardants. The study uses genome mining and environmental DNA sequencing to identify specific genes and enzymes involved in the production of these compounds.
Researchers from Lomonosov Moscow State University discovered that ancient ground squirrels in the Indigirka river basin are closely related to present-day Beringian ground squirrels in Kamchatka. The study revealed that these animals have a complex migration history, with multiple colonization events in Eurasia.
Research in The FASEB Journal reveals a key role for cilia structure in determining susceptibility to neural tube defects. Genetically modified mice studies found that methylation of the Septin2 protein affects neural tube closure, leading to an increased risk of birth defects.
UC Berkeley scientists have developed a new technique to track individual stem cells in the nose, uncovering clues that could help restore smell to those who have lost it. The team used single-cell RNA sequencing and statistical analysis to identify the molecules that trigger stem cell differentiation into specific cell types.
Researchers found that devils with higher fitness rates are more likely to contract devil facial tumour disease (DFTD), a transmissible cancer. The study suggests that socially dominant individuals may be more susceptible due to their aggressive behavior and mating encounters.
Tropical Cyclone Ella is characterized by large bands of thunderstorms wrapping around the center and from the east. The storm's maximum sustained winds increased to near 63 mph as it continued moving westward.
Researchers found that genetic variations influence fruit fly larvae's ability to associate odors with pain and pleasure, leading to better decision-making about pupation. The study suggests a link between learning and environmental cues, highlighting the complex interplay of nature and nurture in shaping behavior.
The study found that hepatitis C infections among pregnant women increased by 89% from 1.8 to 3.4 per 1,000 live births between 2009 and 2014. Rural counties in Tennessee and West Virginia saw the highest rates of infection, with nearly 8% of pregnant women infected in some counties.
A new study published in The FASEB Journal reveals that the plasma membrane protein Efr3a plays a crucial role in regulating learning and memory by promoting adult hippocampal neurogenesis. This process is essential for learning and memory, and the study provides new insights into its mechanisms.
The study reveals that enterococci, leading hospital superbugs, have been resistant to antibiotics and disinfectants for hundreds of millions of years. They were shaped by their environment, including living in the intestines of extinct animals, and can withstand drying out and starvation.
Two new studies on DAR-901, a non-pathogenic bacterium-based vaccine, demonstrate improved protection against tuberculosis compared to the current BCG vaccine. The studies suggest that DAR-901 is likely to be as effective as the original formulation and may be the first protective TB vaccine in humans since BCG.
A new estimate suggests that dryland forests, which cover 40% of the Earth's land surface, are more extensive than previously thought, with an additional 467 million hectares reported. This increase in forest area increases current estimates of global forest cover by at least 9%
A new study from The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center found that athletes with attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are more likely to compete in team contact sports, which can increase their risk of injury. This is contrary to the expectation that individuals with ADHD would gravitate towards individual sports.
A team of researchers has discovered a new type of living material composed of liquid crystals and bacteria. The combination creates unusual optical, physical, and electrical properties, and the bacteria exhibit collective behavior when at high concentrations. Experiments show that oxygen removal stops the action of the living material.
The USDA is providing funding to help private forestland owners and ranchers make informed decisions about their natural resources. NIFA investments will enhance the sustainability of forest and rangeland resources through education programs, supporting well-managed forests and rural economic development.
Researchers investigated how social exclusion affects individuals and found that even small indications of integration and attention can reduce distress. Receiving minimal attention via a letter or email can make rejection more bearable.
Research based on macro-surveys found that households with both members working have the lowest incidence of domestic violence. Higher education levels and younger women are also associated with reduced risk. The study suggests different policy approaches for vulnerable groups, promoting gender equality through education and employment.
A Duke University-led study maps the sooty tern's annual migratory path and reveals its direct correlation with hurricane-forming storms in the Atlantic. The researchers warn that stronger hurricanes may increase due to climate change, posing a new threat to these iconic seabirds.
A NASA study using Hubble and Spitzer space telescopes reveals a primitive atmosphere around HAT-P-26b, composed mainly of hydrogen and helium. The planet's water signature suggests it formed closer to its star or later in the planetary system than similar planets.
Researchers found that distractions detract from the experience of beauty, but sensuous pleasures can also be beautiful. Participants rated their experience of each object on a four-point beauty scale and reported personal meaning behind certain experiences.
Researchers created a detailed analysis of human proteins in cultivated cell lines, mapping them to cellular compartments and substructures with single-cell resolution. The study found that about half of the proteins are found in more than one compartment, shedding new light on cellular complexity.
A meta-analysis of three randomized controlled trials shows that zinc acetate lozenges can increase the recovery rate from the common cold by 3 fold. The studies found no adverse effects at doses up to 92mg/day, making them a potentially effective treatment option.
A team of international researchers has uncovered the primitive atmosphere surrounding a distant exoplanet called HAT-P-26b, also known as Warm Neptune. The study found that the planet's atmosphere is composed almost entirely of hydrogen and helium with no clouds present.
University of California, San Diego researchers found that phytoplankton and bacteria in the water affect sea spray aerosol's atmospheric-changing properties. This influences cloud formation and climate change.
According to Rutgers University researcher John McGann, humans can detect and discriminate an extraordinary range of odors, rivaling that of rodents and dogs. The human olfactory bulb is similar in size and number of neurons to other mammals, challenging the long-held misconception about human sense of smell.
Researchers used cutting-edge techniques to capture videos of T cell surface dynamics, revealing microvilli crawl independently in fractal geometry to explore antigen-presenting cells. This efficient search pattern allows T cells to thoroughly sample their environment in just minutes, optimizing immune response.
Lions in Uganda's Queen Elizabeth National Park have smaller pride sizes and larger home ranges due to decreasing prey biomass. The study found the lions' dependence on Ugandan kob, a crucial prey species, led to these adaptations.
Scientists at MU used whole genome sequencing to identify genetic variants causing rare diseases like progressive retinal atrophy and Niemann-Pick type 1 in domestic cats. This helps feline preservationists implement breeding strategies for endangered species.
Researchers estimate that achieving a smoking prevalence of less than 5% by 2035 would avoid nearly 12,500 new cases of serious disease. The UK could save £600 million in healthcare and lost productivity costs in 2035 alone, mainly due to declines in smoking rates among the wealthy rather than the poor.
A study presented at the ESPGHAN conference warns that young children on a vegan diet without proper medical and dietary advice may experience vitamin B12, calcium, zinc, and high-quality protein deficiencies. These deficiencies can lead to devastating health effects, including irreversible cognitive damage and death.
A team from the Technical University of Munich has developed a pH sensor that renders pH values visible through magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) - in a non-invasive, radiation-free manner. This method could provide insights into tumor metabolism and help evaluate the efficacy of tumor treatments.
The discovery of ancient buckthorn fossils in Argentina sheds light on plant recovery after the asteroid extinction event. The fossils date back to the early Paleocene epoch and provide evidence for a Gondwanan origin of the Rhamnaceae family.
Researchers from Florida Atlantic University developed a new tool to measure couples' communication in dementia. The Verbal and Nonverbal Interaction Scale-CR (VNIS-CR) tool evaluates social and unsociable behaviors, enabling caregivers to improve communication and mental health.
A Loyola Medicine study found that simulation techniques using SimMan 3G and trained actors improved neurologists' diagnostic skills for brain death. The training also enhanced their ability to communicate bad news to families, leading to better outcomes.
Physicists from IFJ PAN developed a simple model to describe the complex process of atomic nucleus collisions. The model predicts that hot matter forms streaks along the direction of impact, moving faster with distance from the collision axis.
Researchers have developed a new battery system using electrodes with porous graphene scaffolding, showing substantial improvement in energy storage. By fine-tuning nanopore size, they achieved high mass loading and power capability while maintaining charge transport.
A global research team developed a new Web app to compare and align marine species occurrence maps from two extensive databases, improving the basis for ecological studies and policy decisions. The updated maps include 24,586 species, with some discrepancies found in the IUCN and AquaMaps datasets.
Research reveals how hypoxia leads to inhibition of miR-34a, a key tumor suppressor, promoting metastasis and EMT. The findings suggest that targeting this process with drugs could be a therapeutic approach for treating metastasizing colon tumors.
A study published in Scientific Reports reveals that diagnosing diseases and prescribing treatments engage the same brain system involved in everyday identification tasks. This finding may lead to new approaches to reduce medical errors by decreasing attentional focus during diagnosis.
Researchers have identified a novel adenosine receptor gene, A2c, that mediates the appetizing smell of fish food in zebrafish and other aquatic vertebrates. This receptor is highly sensitive to ATP and related compounds, triggering foraging behaviors.
Researchers in Europe have found that people from Britain, Ireland, and Portugal drink the most, with binge drinking common in these countries. The study also reveals a link between social status and alcohol consumption, with wealthier individuals drinking more.
The world's first computerized tomography (CT) images of biological tissue using protons have been produced, revolutionizing Proton Therapy for cancer treatment. This breakthrough enables detailed three-dimensional images to be created, allowing for more accurate targeting of tumors and reduced radiation exposure.
Japanese researchers isolated a protein essential for chloroplast nucleoid segregation, improving understanding of chloroplast DNA dynamics. The moc1 gene functions as a 'Holliday junction resolvase', untangling DNA structures crucial for cell health.
Research by Brown University geologists reveals that ancient Mars impacts generated tornado-like wind vortices that scoured the surface, exposing blockier surfaces beneath. The winds, which reached speeds of up to 500 miles per hour, were responsible for creating bright streaks on the Martian surface.
Researchers have discovered a more favorable virus species for delivering genes, as its surface structure avoids liver toxicity. This could enable the use of viruses in gene therapies and vaccine development.
Researchers discovered brain structure changes in older adults without noticeable memory problems, using the Montreal Cognitive Assessment test. These findings suggest that brain imaging may predict dementia years prior to diagnosis.
Research predicts achieving a 'tobacco-free' UK by 2035 will save the NHS £67m in direct costs and £548m in economic costs. The study forecasts nearly 100,000 new cases of smoking-related disease will be avoided, including 35,900 cancers over 20 years.
Researchers have found a link between malignant hyperthermia susceptibility and exertional heat stroke in mice. The study suggests that intense exercise in challenging environmental conditions can trigger lethal crises in susceptible animals, which may be relevant to humans.
A UCLA study has discovered a pair of genes in Caenorhabditis elegans that encode both a poison and its antidote, representing a clear example of 'selfish genetic elements'. The research suggests that these elements could be used to stop the spread of diseases like malaria.
A team of scientists has discovered that breast cancer cells rely on a different nutrient metabolism to produce energy than normal cells and non-metastasizing cancer cells. Inhibiting this process reduces metastases by over 60% in mouse models.
Researchers at Simon Fraser University and Kwantlen Polytechnic University are developing sustainable clean-tech solutions for global potable water and clean food production. The project aims to improve energy and water consumption, as well as environmental and carbon footprint in closed greenhouses.
A study by the University of Waterloo found that frequent marijuana use among high school students negatively impacts academic performance, with those who started using regularly being four times more likely to skip class and half as likely to achieve high grades.
Astronomers have found clear signs of water in the atmosphere of HAT-P-26b, a Neptune-sized exoplanet. The presence of water suggests that the planet's gaseous envelope formed late in its formation process, with little to no pollution by impacting debris.
Researchers have identified a microRNA biomarker that shows a strong association with atrial fibrillation incidence. The study found that low levels of miR 21 are strongly linked to the development of atrial fibrillation, which can increase stroke risk and negatively impact quality of life.
A Hokkaido University researcher found a correlation between high tropical Pacific seawater temperatures and increased ice breakup in East Antarctica. The study suggests that warmer seawater triggers atmospheric waves, leading to large ice breakups at Syowa Station.
According to a new study, people with smiling faces are perceived as older than those with neutral or surprised expressions. Researchers suggest this is due to wrinkle lines forming around the eyes when smiling. This finding challenges conventional wisdom about the effect of smiling on age perception.
A team of scientists has found that bacteria living in marine sponges can produce toxic compounds nearly identical to man-made fire retardants, also known as polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs). The discovery could help understand the human health implications of these additives.
A recent study published in Journal of Interpersonal Violence found that males with low resting heart rates were at significantly greater risk of engaging in stalking behavior. Males with heart rates one standard deviation below the mean or lower had nearly three times the odds of having engaged in stalking compared to other participants.
A human protein called valosin containing protein (VCP) is crucial for human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) replication. Reducing VCP expression in infected cells significantly reduced viral replication.
Scientists at the University of Illinois have discovered a small molecule called hinokitiol that can transport iron in human cells and animals when proteins are missing. This breakthrough could potentially treat diseases such as anemia, cystic fibrosis, and certain types of heart disease.
A growing number of cases in Western countries have been linked to the consumption of raw or undercooked fish, specifically sushi. Anisakiasis is caused by eating infected fish and can lead to symptoms such as upper gut pain, vomiting, fever, bowel obstruction, and bleeding.
A new study published in Nature Communications suggests that maintaining high levels of adenosine in rats with damaged ACLs prevents osteoarthritis. Adenosine replacement therapy could potentially delay the onset of osteoarthritis and joint replacements.
Reduced natural dust from the Gobi Desert leads to increased man-made pollution over eastern China due to reduced temperature differential between sea and land, resulting in weaker winds and air stagnation. This has a profound effect on climate and air quality, with cleaner air observed two to three days after wind-borne dust arrives.
Researchers at the University of Illinois have shed new light on the electronic properties of Sr2RuO4, a topological superconductor. At temperatures above its critical temperature, the material exhibits anomalous interactions between electrons.
Researchers at Michigan Medicine discovered a protein called free C3d that stops cancer's ability to prevent the immune system from destroying cancer cells. The study showed an 80-90% decrease in cancerous tumors, and free C3d has potential as a cancer vaccine and treatment.
MARRVEL, a big data search engine, enables researchers to efficiently access human genome variants and phenotypes from multiple databases. The tool provides a concise summary of the most relevant information, facilitating analysis and discovery.
A new study by Prof. Ruth Feldman reveals that a positive father-child relationship can buffer the negative effects of maternal depression on family-level functioning. Children in families with sensitive fathers showed improved social engagement and reduced conflict, despite their mothers' depression.
Researchers modeled prehistoric human migration using a diffusion equation, accounting for geological data and habitability factors. They found that groups merged in well-localized regions within the subcontinent, with genetic data agreeing with their predictions.
A non-toxic mixture of chitin-rich crab shell powder and silver nanoparticles effectively inhibits the growth of mosquito larvae and prevents bacterial species from multiplying. The eco-friendly solution shows promise in controlling the spread of disease-carrying mosquitoes, including those responsible for malaria.
Researchers discovered a dual peptide called PGLP-1 that promotes insulin secretion and inhibits gluconeogenesis, potentially improving glycemic control in type 1 diabetes. It also shows promise in reducing insulin resistance in patients with type 2 diabetes.
Researchers found that injecting an anti-inflammatory steroid directly into the tissue surrounding a leg artery reduced inflammatory biomarkers and prevented repeat blockages. The treatment showed promise for improving treatment outcomes for patients with peripheral artery disease.
A new study found that warmer temperatures have deepened the decline in streamflow in the Upper Rio Grande watershed since the mid-1980s. The research suggests that incorporating temperature into water supply forecasts could improve their accuracy, especially in the face of climate change.
A meta-analysis of three trials found that CD34+ stem cells improved exercise time by 80.5 seconds and reduced mortality by 24 months in patients with refractory angina. This therapy has been shown to be safe and effective for treating patients with limited options.
Researchers have found evidence that enterococci bacteria developed antimicrobial resistance around 425 million years ago, when their prehistoric animal hosts transitioned to land. This ancient adaptation enabled the bacteria to survive in a range of challenging environments, including hospital settings.
A new study finds that tamoxifen reduces food intake and prevents fat accumulation, insulin resistance, and fatty liver deposits in female mice fed a high-fat diet. Tamoxifen's protective effects are attributed to the activation of ER°-AF1, opening up possibilities for new therapies.
Tropical Cyclone Donna produced extremely high rainfall totals, with IMERG estimates exceeding 62.4 millimeters (24.6 inches) in areas affected by the storm.
Research reveals that TV accentuates traditional women's roles at the expense of their needs, leading to lower sexual assertiveness and increased shame. Women who reject these norms face backlash, making it difficult for them to challenge negative discourse and improve their confidence about sex.
Researchers have discovered a 36.4-million-year-old whale fossil that suggests baleen whales' ancestors were toothy suction feeders, diverging from their hunting lifestyle to filter-feed tiny marine animals. The study also reveals that whales likely lost hind limbs more recently than previously estimated.
Researchers from Mayo Clinic have made significant progress in understanding the DNA damage response proteins and their role in repairing double-strand breaks. The study reveals how these proteins work together to fix damaged DNA, potentially leading to new therapeutic strategies for cancer treatment.
A new study combines traditional CHA2DS2-VASc risk score with the Intermountain Mortality Risk Score to provide more accurate evaluations of atrial fibrillation patients' individual risks. This allows for better decision-making regarding blood thinners use, taking into account both clinical and biological factors.
A new study has identified various medical diagnoses that may elevate an individual's risk of developing acute kidney injury (AKI) while in the hospital. AKI is often associated with medical or surgical conditions that deprive the kidneys of normal blood flow, and previous studies have only identified certain risk factors.
A recent study of 114 academics in the UK found that while 58% believe Learning Styles is beneficial, only 33% use it. The study also revealed that most faculty consider the approach fundamentally flawed and prefer evidence-based techniques instead. Promoting these effective methods could be a more productive focus for education research.
Scientists have discovered two molecules that enhance tissue repair in vital organs, potentially leading to new treatments for diseases like asthma and fibrosis. The study found specific signals in the lungs and liver can regulate the immune response, aiding in damage repair.
A new study by Cornell University researchers estimates the densities of black bears in southern New York, finding an average density of about 13 bears per 38.6 square miles. The findings provide clues for how bears might continue to use landscapes farther north as their ranges expand.
The study reveals three primary genetic clusters of snow leopards, each found in a distinct geographical region. The discovery sheds light on the species' evolution, ecology, and conservation, highlighting the need for transboundary initiatives to protect this majestic big cat.
A new study reveals that HAT-P-26b, a Neptune-sized planet, has a hydrogen and helium-dominated atmosphere with a strong water signature. The discovery challenges the long-held assumption that planets like Neptune formed in a region of icy debris, instead suggesting alternative formation mechanisms.
Using a genetic 'toolkit,' scientists observe unprecedented interaction between Brucella and Legionella pneumophila, improving infectious potential of Brucella. The technique creates light-emitting bacteria for easy observation, identification in the lab.
Tropical Storm Adrian formed on May 10, but quickly lost steam, weakening to a remnant low pressure area by May 11. The storm's maximum sustained winds dropped to near 30 mph (45 kph), with some further weakening forecast over the next 48 hours.
A study in PLOS ONE reveals that Yellowstone grizzly bears continue to forage for declining whitebark pine seeds, a key food source. The analysis suggests that some bears may be consuming more plants and berries in response to the decline of whitebark trees.
Patients with new-onset atrial fibrillation post-TAVR have a nearly five-fold greater risk of early stroke compared to those without AF. The BRAVO-3 trial found that patients with existing or new AF had higher rates of pre-existing comorbidities and were more likely to receive oral anticoagulants.
New research reveals that choosing empathy routes can affect helpers' health and well-being. The study suggests that training professionals to engage in IOPT can help reduce burnout.
Researchers found combining Intermountain Mortality Risk Score (IMRS) with traditional CHA2DS2-VASc score improves identification of atrial fibrillation patients at higher risk of dementia. This study used data from nearly 75,000 AFib patients with no history of dementia.
Researchers discovered Hinokitiol's ability to transport iron across cell membranes, correcting anemia caused by genetic deficiencies. The compound also promotes iron gut absorption and hemoglobin creation, suggesting its potential for treating human diseases.
Researchers found that a 61-year-old man with severe alcohol dependence and stuttering stopped stuttering after taking baclofen, a muscle relaxant. Further studies are needed to confirm the finding, but the authors propose plausible biological explanations for the effect.
A team of neuroscientists confirms Immanuel Kant's 18th-century claim that experiencing beauty requires thought. The study found that adding a distraction to the experience reduces feelings of pleasure and beauty in viewing beautiful images, but not those from non-beautiful things.
Scientists discovered that biological activity in sea spray affects the chemical composition of aerosol particles, making them more complex and diverse. This finding could improve the accuracy of atmospheric and climate models, which play a crucial role in understanding the impact of sea spray on climate.
A recent review by John McGann suggests that humans' ability to detect certain scents is superior to other animals, such as dogs. The study highlights the importance of smell in human communication and mate choice, challenging the long-held notion that humans have an inferior sense of smell.
The melting of glacial ice contributes to sea-level rise, displacing millions of people, while glaciers also serve as a source of fresh water. However, researchers like Twila Moon warn that glaciers are shrinking at an alarming rate, with devastating consequences for the planet's weather and climate systems.
A Pew Research Center survey shows Americans are split on the effectiveness of recent science marches and protests. Democrats and younger adults overwhelmingly believe these events will increase public support for science, whereas Republicans and seniors tend to think they'll make no difference.
A study by INSEAD found that labeling energy drinks as part of an alcohol cocktail increases perceived intoxication, leading to greater risk-taking, sexual confidence, and decreased intentions to drive. The effects were stronger for those who believed energy drinks boost the effect of liquor.
A study found that Americans with systemic sclerosis had a greater imbalance of good and bad gut bacteria compared to Norwegians. The researchers believe this difference is due to genetics and diet, which could lead to new treatments by restoring balance through diet modification, probiotics, and fecal transplantation.
A recent study found a substantial correlation between increased prescriptions for pregabalin and gabapentin and rising overdose deaths. These drugs have become abuse-prone when used with heroin or other opioids, especially due to their association with feelings of loss of control and enhanced heroin effects.
A study published in Journal of Cleaner Production found that cricket farming can be a more environmentally sustainable way to produce animal source foods. The research compared cricket production to broiler chicken production and identified areas for further improvement, such as exploring alternative feed sources.