Physicists at MIT have designed a pocket-sized cosmic ray muon detector that can be made with common electrical parts. The relatively simple device costs just $100 and can be used by students to measure muon rates in various environments.
Researchers at MIT found that two cholesterol molecules bind to a flu protein called M2, creating a wedge shape in the cell membrane that severs the viral buds. This discovery sheds light on how many other proteins interact with membrane cholesterol.
A recent study reveals that high-latitude volcanic eruptions can transport sulfate aerosols into the tropical stratosphere, influencing both hemispheres' climates. The research found that favorable atmospheric conditions can enable such long-distance transport, making these eruptions a global concern.
A unique model for Alzheimer's disease has been developed, suggesting a new approach for treating the condition. By reducing stress granule proteins, nerve cell health and memory can be improved.
A recent study by Penn researchers reveals that the Brazil nut effect plays a crucial role in explaining how rivers resist erosion. The phenomenon, where larger particles tend to rise to the top of mixtures, helps create an armor-like layer on riverbeds, protecting them from excessive erosion. This finding has significant implications ...
Researchers have identified a possible way to reengage a tumor suppressor protein, Growth Differentiation Factor 11, in triple-negative breast cancer cells. This could lead to the development of novel medications that can stop the aggressive form of cancer by intervening in its progression.
Researchers at University of Michigan develop new PCR-based approach to study chromosomes' centers, yielding clues about Down syndrome. The technique accelerates analysis of centromere DNA, potentially leading to breakthroughs in birth defects and cancers.
Researchers developed a new framework to report and design models of care for multimorbidity, highlighting changing elements such as reduced home care and increased extended appointments. The framework provides a tool for standardized reporting and research on multimorbidity interventions.
New research from Oregon State University reveals that a heat-tolerant Symbiodinium species may not be able to form a healthy partnership with corals, exacerbating the threat of climate change. The study used an established model system, sea anemones, to test the hypothesis.
Shared decision making among adult Americans increased from 4.4 to 5 between 2002 and 2014. Disparities exist by race/ethnicity and insurance status, but same-race clinician responses improve perceptions.
Researchers used two gene technologies to assemble the most complete genome sequence of Triticum aestivum, the most common cultivated species of wheat. The achievement may help biologists better understand the evolutionary history of wheat and advance the quest for hardier, pest- and drought-resistant varieties.
A modified XELIRI regimen with reduced doses of irinotecan and capecitabine has been shown to be non-inferior to FOLFIRI in terms of overall survival. The treatment, combined with bevacizumab, demonstrated favourable tolerability and efficacy comparable to XELOX plus bevacizumab.
Researchers at Ohio State University found a new methane-producing microbe that survives in oxygen-rich environments, contrary to previous assumptions. The discovery suggests the amount of methane released into the atmosphere may be more than initially thought.
Researchers found that heart disease risk factors are associated with slower walking speeds in people under 78. Cognitive function did not play a role in this link, and balance problems were only seen in those over 78.
A diabetes drug has been found to improve DNA repair in cells affected by Xeroderma pigmentosum, a rare genetic disease. The drug, acetohexamide, degrades the DNA repair enzyme MUTYH, triggering an NER-independent mechanism for removing UV-induced DNA damage.
Researchers have identified a three-molecule signature that accurately indicates insulin resistance, or pre-diabetes, in mice. This discovery could enable earlier detection of pre-diabetes in humans and tailor healthcare treatments to individual patients' needs.
Researchers have developed a new system to study Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease in the laboratory, using brain cells derived from human stem cells. The method enables scientists to infect human cells with prions and replicate the proteins in the lab, providing valuable information for potential treatments.
Research in CMAJ found that motorcycle crashes result in 3 times the injuries and 10 times the severity compared to car accidents. Motorcycle accidents also cause 5 times more deaths and 6 times higher medical costs.
Researchers at Los Alamos National Laboratory have successfully amplified light using electrically excited films of quantum dots. The team developed a novel approach to eliminate heat loss and achieve optical gain, paving the way for highly flexible, electrically pumped lasers that can complement or displace existing laser diodes.
A new review examines veterinary antibiotic use and its impact on soil resistance, highlighting the need for tighter controls. Recent studies show increased concentrations of antibiotics and diversity of resistant genes in animal manure and treated soils.
Researchers at Portland State University developed a survey to tap into students' motivation in STEM classes, highlighting the importance of feelings of belonging and positive identity. The survey findings aim to provide educators with tools to address motivational factors and improve teaching strategies.
Scientists developed an enterovirus vaccine that protects against virus-induced diabetes in a mouse model for Type 1 diabetes. The study suggests the potential role of enteroviruses in human Type 1 diabetes and offers a new preventative treatment option.
A national cooperative group trial is making a handful of experts in rare leukemia available around the clock to reduce high mortality rates. The goal is to decrease induction mortality from 30% to 6.7% by providing timely management and care for patients with acute promyelocytic leukemia.
A study by UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center led to the development of a new approach for identifying therapeutic options for cancer patients based on their tumor's genetics. Cognitive computing was used to analyze large volumes of data and identify potentially relevant clinical trials or treatment options.
The Prostate Health Index test influences physician decisions to perform biopsies, with only 36% of men receiving biopsies when phi testing was included in the assessment compared to 60% before its availability. The study also found a reduction in low-grade prostate cancers detected.
A team of scientists analyzed data on over 1900 soils from 21 countries, discovering constant bacterial groups across different environments. These bacteria hold clues to making some soils more fertile. Informative families of bacteria indicate real differences among types of soil.
Researchers at the University of Toronto have developed a new catalyst that increases the efficiency of artificial photosynthesis to 64%, converting electrical energy into chemical energy. This innovation addresses two major challenges in renewable energy production, capturing carbon emissions and storing energy from solar or wind power.
A new study found that cultural values of autonomy and harmony are positively associated with higher average levels of alcohol consumption. Countries with more traditional values, such as hierarchy and collectivism, tend to have lower average levels of alcohol consumption.
Research published in the Journal of Experimental Medicine found that a mother's diet can protect nursing newborns against food allergies. The study, supported by Food Allergy Research & Education (FARE), suggests that mothers should feel free to eat a healthy and diverse diet throughout pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Experts recommend restrictive blood transfusion practices for stable patients with hemoglobin levels of 7 g/dL or higher, reducing mortality and blood clot risks. The study found significant reductions in blood use by 40-65% in largest randomized trials.
Researchers found that small fires create "grazing-lawn ecosystems" with higher food quality and increased safety for animals. The study showed that small burns (<25ha) attract large numbers of wildebeest, keeping grass short and palatable.
A preclinical study led by Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute demonstrates that palovarotene suppresses the formation of bony tumors in MHE models, reducing bone tumors by over 90%. The drug has been shown to be well-tolerated and is now set to begin a Phase 2/3 clinical trial.
The first known interstellar visitor, 'Oumuamua, is a rapidly rotating and dimly bright object similar to Kuiper Belt objects and organic-rich comets. It was discovered in October and observed using the Gemini Observatory before fading from view due to its increasing distance.
The American College of Physicians (ACP) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advise physicians to vaccinate all unvaccinated adults against hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection and screen high-risk persons. This can help reduce chronic HBV infections, cirrhosis, hepatocellular carcinoma, and premature death.
Fast-moving space dust could collide with biological particles, enabling bacteria and organisms to travel to other planets. The study suggests that asteroid impacts are not the sole mechanism for transferring life between planets.
A new study found a positive association between allopurol initiation and recurring doctor visits for gout, highlighting the need for regular chronic disease reviews to evaluate patients' preferences and eligibility for treatment. The study suggests that more frequent monitoring could reduce barriers to successfully treating gout.
A study suggests that rural coal families are less likely to divorce when faced with economic downturns. The researchers found that rural counties with higher levels of coal jobs had lower divorce rates compared to similar counties with fewer coal jobs during the 1990s.
A new study published in International Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry found that benzodiazepine use is associated with a 40% increased risk of death among persons with Alzheimer's disease. The study, which included over 10,380 participants, suggests that these drugs may contribute to adverse events such as falls, pneumonia, and stroke.
A new study published in Nature Climate Change reveals that the Arctic warmed more than six times the global average during the 'global warming hiatus' from 1998 to 2012. The research uses improved datasets and methods to estimate average global temperatures, showing that the rate of global warming continued to rise at 0.112C per decade.
A recent study published in JAMA Pediatrics found that microRNA levels in the saliva of children with mild traumatic brain injury can accurately identify those with prolonged concussion symptoms. This discovery holds promise for improving concussion management and reducing parental anxiety.
Researchers analyzed 224 ST8 isolates and found that the ancestor likely emerged in Central Europe during the mid-19th century. The lineage then spread globally, acquiring characteristics of USA300 and becoming widespread in North America by the early 20th century.
A family physician advocates for prioritizing human connection in medical practices, shifting focus from productivity to relationships. He suggests viewing the practice as a unit of care, encouraging ingenuity and problem-solving skills among employees to strengthen cultures.
High school students are an excellent target for CPR training, with over half of US states requiring some form of CPR training. Despite this, wide variability exists in instruction and only 2.4% of the US population is trained annually.
Researchers found that babies as young as six months old can recognize relationships between words and objects, such as cars and strollers. This understanding of word relationships is linked to the amount of time caregivers talk about objects in their daily lives.
Researchers have developed a new writing method to create any desired magnetic pattern on nanowires, mimicking brain information processing. This breakthrough could lead to the creation of hardware neural networks, which may surpass software-based approaches in efficiency.
A study by University of Texas at Austin researchers found that compact sediments along the Cascadia Subduction Zone increase earthquake and tsunami hazards. Compact sediments offshore of Washington and northern Oregon can lead to more stress buildup and longer rupture distances, making them prone to triggering larger tsunamis.
Researchers at Caltech have characterized the adaptations of Mono Lake flies, enabling them to crawl underwater without getting wet. The flies create a protective bubble around their bodies using an extreme water-repelling phenomenon called superhydrophobicity.
Researchers found that reducing chlorophyll content in plant leaves can save significant amounts of nitrogen, which can be reinvested to improve light use efficiency and increase yield. This strategy has the potential to enhance photosynthetic efficiency without sacrificing carbon gain.
Researchers developed a statistical technique to determine when specific outcomes changed after healthcare interventions, allowing for more accurate assessments of their effectiveness. The robust-interrupted time series model was applied to a Clinical Nurse Leader program and showed improved patient satisfaction indicators.
Researchers at UCLA have developed a 2-in-1 device that uses solar energy to create and store hydrogen fuel for eco-friendly cars. The technology produces hydrogen using abundant and less expensive elements, making it more affordable for consumers.
Researchers developed a tool to help users cloak their identity and avoid certain types of inferences drawn about them based on their social media behavior. The 'cloaking device' can significantly reduce the predictive value of online information used for targeting.
Researchers found that non-vitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulants are associated with reduced risk of adverse kidney outcomes in patients with atrial fibrillation. The study, published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology, showed that about 1 in 4 patients taking these medications experienced significant kidney functi...
A team of biomedical engineers has developed a photocrosslinkable, thermoreversible type-I collagen bioink for 3D printing of scaffolds. The bioink allows for spatially controlled cross-linking and can be used to print scaffolds with macroscale features, facilitating tissue engineering and regenerative medicine applications.
The American College of Physicians and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend screening at-risk adults, increasing hepatitis B vaccination rates, and linking infected persons to care. This can help reduce transmission and complications associated with chronic hepatitis B infection.
A new study estimates that between 0.9% and 1.3% of UK adults used emergency food banks in 2013-2015, equating to approximately 850,000 people annually. Repeat visits indicate that distributing emergency food is not a long-term solution to food poverty.
Researchers at Purdue University have developed microelectromechanical resonators that can detect biological markers in small amounts of blood, allowing for early disease detection and treatment. The test has potential applications in detecting traumatic brain injury, Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and other conditions.
A genomic study of Scandinavian wolves has found extensive inbreeding, with some individuals having entire chromosomes without genetic variation. The study also revealed that immigrant wolves were partly inbred, contradicting the assumption of unrelated founders.
Researchers have discovered a potent drug-like compound that inhibits Toll-like receptor 8, a key player in autoimmune diseases. The compound, CU-CPT8m, exerts potent anti-inflammatory effects on tissue, offering a potential breakthrough for treating rheumatoid arthritis and other autoimmune conditions.
A new study suggests that overweight women with higher body mass index (BMI) may need shorter intervals between mammography screening exams. Women with higher BMI face an increased risk of not detecting their breast tumor until it has become large, leading to a worse prognosis.
A clinical trial suggests a new form of gene therapy, targeting CD22, achieved significant remission rates in children and young adults with treatment-resistant B-cell leukemia. The therapy was well-tolerated and showed promise in patients who had previously failed anti-CD19 CAR T-cell treatment.