A University of Washington study found a direct connection between toxic air and mental health, with fine particulate matter linked to increased psychological distress. The study, which controlled for other factors, showed that even moderate levels of pollution can be detrimental to health, particularly among specific populations.
Longtime advocates Paul T. Conway and Richard Knight received the ASN's President's Medal for their significant contributions to the fight against kidney diseases, including improving access to treatment and increasing funding for research and treatment innovations.
Researchers identified four genes - KRAS, CDKN2A, SMAD4, and TP53 - that influence pancreatic cancer survival. Patients with three or four altered genes had poorer disease-free and overall survival rates compared to those with single or dual alterations.
The SENIOR trial found that a Synergy bioabsorbable polymer DES with shorter dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) is more effective than a bare-metal stent in elderly patients. This new strategy reduces adverse events without increasing bleeding risk, suggesting a change in recommended PCI strategies for this age group.
A new study describes the 3D printing of Shape Memory Polymers to produce active meta-materials that can change shape and recover their original state when heated. The researchers demonstrate that these 4D structures can achieve large area changes of up to 200% within a programming and recovery cycle.
Researchers developed a 4-in-1 flu shot that provides broad protection against influenza by targeting ancestral genes of four major strains. The vaccine was shown to be effective in mice, with those receiving the highest dose not getting sick.
A large observational study of nearly 49,000 Malaysian heart attack patients found a significant 10-year decline in blood cholesterol levels. This trend is opposite to the national average and suggests that statins may be responsible for the decrease in cholesterol levels among ACS patients.
Researchers develop a method for assembling colloidal clusters using origami DNA, allowing precise control over particle orientation and properties. The technique enables the creation of clusters with specified chirality, which could lead to improved understanding and utilization of particles with unique optical or magnetic properties.
A new USC-led study suggests that estrogen treatment after menopause can mitigate the negative effects of stress on working memory. Women taking estrogen-only therapy had lower cortisol levels and better performed on tests following exposure to stress compared to those receiving a placebo.
Regular consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages like soda and juice is associated with an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes and metabolic syndrome. A review of 36 studies found that frequent intake of these beverages contributes to the onset of cardiometabolic diseases, including high blood pressure and heart disease.
Researchers found that activating programmed cell death (necroptosis) in white blood cells leads to inflammation and auto-antibody attachment, contributing to disease progression. Inhibiting necroptosis may offer a new treatment approach for ANCA vasculitis.
A team from the University of Pennsylvania discovered how chromosomes bias their chance of getting into a sex cell by exploiting asymmetry in the cell-division process. This bias can lead to errors in gamete formation, causing miscarriages and conditions like Down's syndrome.
Two studies reveal that gut bacteria play a crucial role in cancer treatment response, with certain beneficial microbes linked to improved survival and efficacy of immunotherapy. Patients with healthier gut flora tend to have more immune cells that can target tumors.
Pillared graphene's thermal transport was found to be faster with wrinkles due to reduced phonon scattering. The optimal configuration involves three octagons instead of six heptagons, facilitating a smoother turn without significantly stressing the graphene.
Researchers at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory have elucidated the mechanism by which newborn neurons migrate to their target destinations in the olfactory bulb. This process is crucial for maintaining proper neural function and may hold promise for treating brain disorders.
The Brain & Behavior Research Foundation has awarded over $13.6 million in Young Investigator Grants to 196 promising young scientists, supporting innovative research into psychiatric disorders affecting one in five people. The grants aim to identify causes, improve treatments and develop prevention strategies for conditions like addic...
A recent study published in Cell Reports found that the protein iRhom2 regulates the release of important molecules triggering the inflammatory response. This mechanism is also crucial for controlling growth factors associated with certain cancers.
Researchers at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center identified specific neural circuitry responsible for rousing the brain of mice in simulated apnea conditions. The findings suggest that PBelCGRP cells wake up the brain and are necessary for arousal, providing a potential target for interventions to treat obstructive sleep apnea.
Researchers have identified a connection between the PI3K pathway and telomere protection, revealing a potential target for cancer treatment. Inhibition of PI3K reduces TRF1 levels, leading to chromosome destabilization and cancer cell death.
A team of international experts has re-evaluated a radical proposal to split dinosaurs into two new groups, finding that the evidence is not strong enough to overthrow traditional classification models. The study suggests that the most likely site of origin for dinosaurs is still in the southern hemisphere, particularly South America.
A breakthrough discovery has been made by suppressing the aflatoxin-producing fungus in groundnut, significantly improving food safety. The research, published in Plant Biotechnology Journal, has potential to contribute to food security in under-developed countries.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine have developed a topical gel made from common blood pressure pills that block inflammation pathways, speeding up the healing of chronic skin wounds. The gel was shown to be effective in accelerating wound healing in mice and pigs, with one concentration showing significant benefits.
A US Department of Energy laboratory has developed a one-step 3D printing method for creating catalysts, which could lead to more efficient chemical reactions and improved industrial processes. The new technique uses inexpensive commercial printers to create structures with built-in catalytic properties.
Researchers investigate how gut bacteria metabolize chemotherapy drug irinotecan, finding that certain individuals are more likely to experience severe side effects. The study suggests analyzing patients' microbiomes before treatment could predict and prevent adverse reactions.
Researchers from University of Nevada, Reno used GPS satellites to search for dark matter clumps in the shape of walls or bubbles extending far beyond the solar system. The team found no evidence but ruled out a vast region of possibilities for this type of dark matter model, bringing them closer to defining its nature and composition.
A new study has found that a pioneering heart valve repair device is safe and effective, reducing the need for open-heart procedures and resulting in improved quality and frequency of repairs. The Harpoon Mitral Valve Repair System repaired the heart while it continued to beat, with no deaths or major complications.
The alisertib and TAK-228 combination shows promise in treating solid tumors, particularly triple-negative breast cancer. In a phase 1 clinical trial, the treatment was generally well-tolerated, with patients experiencing fatigue and decreased neutrophil count as common side effects.
A new study finds that climate change could decrease the sun's ability to kill pathogens in lakes and waterways by increasing organic runoff. This can lead to an increase in waterborne illnesses, with 12-19 million people affected annually in the US.
A mouse study found significant differences in gut microbiome composition between male and female mice exposed to nicotine, with potential implications for nicotine's addictive properties. The study suggests that the brain-gut relationship plays a crucial role in nicotine's effects, particularly in women.
Researchers analyzed archaeological and environmental data from 10,000-15,000 years ago to understand human responses to rapid climate shifts. They found that communities with socio-ecological continuity thrived in a warmer world, while those with disrupted settlements struggled to adapt.
A study by Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center has identified a specific subset of adult blood stem cells responsible for regenerating the entire blood and immune system. The 5% subset, marked as CD34+CD45RA-CD90+, was found to rebuild all different cells of the blood and immune system within 10 days after being infused in nonhuman primates.
Researchers discover new technique to transform ambient heat into motion in nanoscale devices, revolutionizing data storage and sensors. The innovation uses a specific type of gear called a ratchet made from artificial spin ice material, which enables the conversion of thermal energy into directed rotation.
A new technology bridges clinical pathology assessment, high-content analysis, and 3D cell cultures, allowing rapid, automatable, and multiplex readouts. This technique is applied to mixed arrays made up of spheroid models from various cell lines, demonstrating its potential for safety and efficacy testing and model optimization.
New research reveals that 85% of forest vertebrates are impacted by fragmentation, with some species flourishing at the edge and others disappearing due to habitat loss. The study highlights the need for conservation efforts to protect species dependent on intact forest core areas.
Researchers at Florida State University found a connection between nightmares and self-injurious behavior, such as cutting or burning oneself. The study suggests that nightmares can disrupt emotional regulation, leading to increased risk of self-injury.
Research suggests that chronic inflammation in mid-life may be an early contributor to brain cell loss and memory decline associated with Alzheimer's disease. The study found people with elevated inflammation biomarkers had smaller brain volumes and lower scores on a memory test compared to those without elevated markers.
Researchers characterized two classes of GGAA-microsatellites that interact with EWS/FLI binding sites, revealing unique regulatory mechanisms for cancer susceptibility and treatment
Scientists discovered a new binding motif that enables positively charged amino acids to bind with negatively charged terminal groups in peptides or proteins. This discovery may help rationalize why certain peptides easily pass through cell membranes and aid in designing efficient transport of drug molecules.
Women who became first-time mothers as teens had greater risks for heart and blood vessel disease later in life compared to older mothers. Researchers found that adolescent mothers scored significantly higher on Framingham Risk Score, indicating a 10-year cardiovascular risk.
Researchers found that over broad regions of the South Atlantic, a combination of two or three nutrients was needed to stimulate phytoplankton growth. This study provides experimental evidence for widespread nutrient co-limitation, which has implications for global ocean models and predictions about nutrient limitation.
Women with a history of infertility have a 10% increased risk of death compared to those without reported infertility struggles. Infertility is also linked to an increased risk of breast cancer and diabetes mortality, highlighting the need for further research into the long-term effects of infertility on women's health.
A 12-week course of hepatitis C drugs can be manufactured for just $50, making it cheaper than a plane ticket on many low-cost airlines. Generic copies are as effective as branded medicines, but restrictions and patent issues prevent widespread access.
A new Brazilian study found that pregnant women with confirmed Zika diagnosis should be tested multiple times due to the intermittent presence of the virus in their urine. The study detected Zika virus in some women's urine for up to seven months after previous tests indicated a non-existent viral load.
A study using American dippers found that run-of-river dams can cause a spike in methylmercury levels due to reservoir formation and temperature increases. However, no significant differences were observed between regulated and unregulated streams in terms of mercury levels.
The 121st annual meeting of the American Academy of Ophthalmology features keynotes from CMS Administrator Seema Verma and a world-renowned expert on inherited eye disease. The meeting also explores innovations in big data, stem cell therapy, and gene therapies to improve patient care.
Researchers found widespread disruptions in brain white matter across several regions, linked to higher pain levels and fatigue. The study suggests poor white matter health may contribute to persistent widespread pain experienced by Gulf War veterans.
Researchers at UMD School of Medicine are studying a new approach to tackle antibiotic resistance by targeting the immune system's response to harmful bacteria. They aim to prevent inflammation and white blood cell activation using special molecules or peptides, which could pave the way for treating a wide range of infections.
A new study by Wake Forest University researchers suggests that weight training with a low-calorie diet preserves lean muscle mass in older adults. Combining resistance training and calorie restriction resulted in less muscle loss and significant fat loss compared to cardio workouts or diet alone.
A new non-destructive method using Raman spectroscopy has been demonstrated to make abraded serial numbers on polymers visible again. Researchers from INRS have successfully recovered erased information from polycarbonate samples without damaging the material.
A Brown University and Hasbro team is developing a smart robotic companion, ARIES, to assist older adults with simple but challenging tasks. The project aims to add artificial intelligence capabilities to the existing Joy for All Companion Pets.
A recent study published in Science Advances suggests that corals can adapt to warmer oceans if global emissions are controlled. The research found genetic variants in some corals that make them more heat tolerant, but may not be enough to keep up with the rapid warming predicted by climate models.
The Earth Microbiome Project has cataloged over 27,000 samples from diverse environments worldwide, generating the first reference database of bacteria colonizing the planet. The project identifies unique microbial sequences, revealing patterns in microbial community composition across environments and geography.
Wind turbines placed along mountain ridges might disrupt bat foraging and navigation patterns. Bats often use these areas for open-space foraging and launching into the sky, attracting them to wind turbines.
A Texas school district study reveals that teachers' sense of collective efficacy has a significant impact on closing the educational achievement gap. Schools with high levels of collective efficacy saw a 50% reduction in academic disadvantage experienced by black students.
Research led by the University of Texas at Austin found that strong winds over the Southern Ocean bring warm water to East Antarctica's Totten Glacier, causing it to melt from below. The glacier's contribution to global sea level rise will likely increase as winds intensify.
Researchers mapped genetic alterations in normal mammary duct cells, identifying early changes that precede tumour development. This study provides new insights into breast cancer biology and may lead to more precision in screening and prevention.
A new study by OHSU researchers suggests that performing brain surgery on patients who are asleep can produce comparable or even better clinical outcomes than procedures conducted while the patient is awake. This approach has improved speech fluency and reduced motor function issues for patients undergoing deep-brain stimulation. The s...
A study found that nearly 20% of people taking prescription medications with impairment risks are not aware they could be driving impaired, despite receiving warnings or seeing labels. Researchers hope increased warnings and labeling can help drivers make informed decisions about their abilities to drive.
Researchers discovered key limitations to seagrass growth from seed to seedling stage, which could improve restoration efforts. The study found that exposure to waves and grazing animals significantly reduced seed survival rates.
Researchers at UNC and Auckland University propose a new 'peptide-RNA' theory, suggesting genetic instructions (nucleic acids) and small proteins (peptides) interacted to form life. The theory contradicts the widely-held 'RNA-world' hypothesis, which states nucleic acids gave rise to life.