A new rat model of drug addiction, requiring daily puzzle-solving for cocaine reward, still produced substance use disorder symptoms. In contrast to traditional models, the rats relied on flexible problem-solving to maintain their addiction, contradicting the widely-held view that habit is necessary.
New research from Washington University in St. Louis suggests ancient barley took a southern route to China, adapting to seasonal challenges along the way. The study, published in PLOS One, analyzed radiocarbon data and DNA evidence from ancient grains in China, India, Kyrgyzstan, and Pakistan.
Researchers at Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center identified a substance called Gdf-15, released by pancreatic cancer cells, that protects them from immune cell macrophages. GDF-15 inhibits nitric oxide and tumor necrosis factor production in macrophages, allowing tumor cells to survive and grow.
Researchers at Rice University have discovered that borophene, a two-dimensional boron material, can emit visible and near-infrared light by activating its plasmons. This property makes it a promising candidate for plasmonic and photonic devices such as biomolecule sensors, waveguides, nanoscale light harvesters, and nanoantennas.
Scientists have identified two key enzymes, PAH1 and PAH2, crucial for plant growth under nitrogen starvation conditions. These findings build on previous research showing that these enzymes are involved in lipid biosynthesis and membrane remodeling during phosphate depletion.
Researchers found that blue whales tend to be 'right-handed' when feeding, rolling about 90 degrees to the right side during most lunges. However, they roll to the left when approaching from below to target patches of prey, allowing for more efficient feeding.
Researchers found that individual blue whales prefer to roll to the right most of the time, but shift to left-side rolls in shallow water to hunt small prey. This study provides the first evidence of handedness in blue whales and highlights their adaptability when it comes to feeding behaviors.
The telescope underwent a series of tests designed to ensure it functions as expected in an extremely cold environment, including alignment checks and cryogenic vacuum testing. After 15 years of planning and over 90 days of testing, the telescope's cryogenic test has been deemed an outstanding success.
Chemists at Emory University have developed a new catalyst that selectively activates a carbon-hydrogen bond without using a directing group. The breakthrough holds promise for the pharmaceutical industry and could lead to new classes of drugs.
A recent study found that approximately one-fifth of cancer patients develop PTSD several months after diagnosis. Researchers emphasize the need for early identification and treatment to improve psychological well-being and quality of life.
Researchers developed a new technique to measure how cancer cells respond to drugs, using a device that can weigh cells with high accuracy. The method was tested on tumor cells from multiple-myeloma patients and showed promising results, correlating with clinical biomarkers used in treatment decisions.
Researchers discovered that fibroblast growth factors (FGFs) can regulate blood pressure and control disease associated with hypertension. FGF inhibitors could be used to target high blood pressure by altering sensitivity to angiotensin II.
A study found that women who underwent sleeve gastrectomy may need to limit their alcohol consumption due to faster absorption rates. The surgery speeds up the transfer of alcohol into the bloodstream, leading to higher blood alcohol levels and increased risk of binge drinking and associated health issues.
Researchers at UofL discovered the critical role of MyD88 in muscle development and regeneration, highlighting its potential to improve therapies for degenerative muscle disorders. The study also suggests that increasing MyD88 levels could inhibit growth of rhabdomyosarcomas and enhance engraftment of exogenous myoblasts.
A team of astronomers from Georgia State University has discovered two old binary stars and identified 29 new old star candidates using a technique called astrometry. The study focused on subdwarf stars, which are cooler and older than the sun, and used their motion across the sky to determine their age.
BGRF scientists introduce a blockchain-enabled framework to decentralize patient data management, incentivizing patients to contribute to clinical databases. This approach could accelerate progress in biomedicine by increasing data quality and comprehensiveness.
Researchers found that oxytocin enhances dogs' interest in smiling faces and reduces their emotional response to angry ones. The study used eye-tracking devices and pupil measurements to evaluate the dogs' emotional states, providing new insights into canine cognition.
New research identifies Recurring Slope Lineae on Mars as granular flows, not liquid water, indicating present-day Mars may lack significant liquid water. The study supports the hypothesis that Mars is dry and limits Earth-like life near its surface.
A patient-centered medical home model implemented in over 800 Veterans Health Administration primary care clinics showed significant improvements in chronic disease outcomes, including better blood pressure and cholesterol control for up to 1-5% of patients. The model, known as Patient Aligned Care Teams (PACT), provided multidisciplin...
High-pressure X-ray measurements reveal the formation of a new phase of kaolinite, a clay mineral containing aluminium, under conditions similar to those in subduction zones. The super-hydrated phase contains more water than any other known aluminosilicate mineral in the mantle.
Researchers found that proteins with specific sequences can trigger the degradation of their own synthetic ribosomes, leading to aborted translation. However, living organisms also possess a mechanism to counteract this phenomenon, allowing for precise regulation of protein expression in response to environmental changes.
A new study reveals that materialistic people see their Facebook friends as digital objects and have more friends than non-materialistic individuals. They also display a stronger need to compare themselves with others on Facebook.
Female chimpanzees who leave their family and friends behind take longer to become mothers, around three years on average, due to social integration challenges. In contrast, those with supportive networks start reproducing earlier, raising questions about the factors influencing this behavior.
A new open-source device called ACME enables scientists to measure spatial variation in the mechanical properties of plant cells with unprecedented accuracy. The device can help understand mechanisms of plant growth and develop conditions that promote plant cell wall extensibility, enhancing plant growth at the cellular level.
Scientists from ITMO University devised a novel way to address issues with solar cells, including reduced light reflection and overheating. By incorporating glass microparticles into the top electrode, they improved solar cell efficiency by 20%, making it more attractive for industrial applications.
Tropical Depression Kirogi made landfall in southeastern Vietnam on November 19, with NASA's Aqua satellite capturing its weakening circulation center. The storm brought maximum sustained surface winds of 20 knots near Cam Ranh Bay.
A new study at Vanderbilt University Medical Center uses a blood test to personalize treatment for smokers. The study found that patients who are 'normal' metabolizers of nicotine respond better to varenicline (Chantix), while those who are 'slow' metabolizers do as well with a nicotine patch.
A new web-based application called NeuroExpresso provides a comprehensive catalogue of brain cell type data, helping to better define their functions and properties. The tool uses marker genes to estimate cellular composition of mouse and human tissue.
A recent study found that older adults with four or more chronic conditions are less likely to participate actively in medical decisions. In contrast, those without multiple conditions tend to prefer more active involvement.
Researchers found that emancipation, including freedom of expression and civil rights, is positively related to generalized trust. Trust grows after a certain level of emancipation is attained, with higher levels seen in modernized countries like Sweden and Canada.
Researchers at Hokkaido University developed a novel approach to improve thermoelectric material performance by harnessing high mobility two-dimensional electron gas. This enables efficient heat-to-electricity conversion, overcoming current limitations in industrial applications.
Researchers at Ben-Gurion University found that treating poultry waste to produce hydrochar generates more net energy than biochar, making it a promising renewable fuel source. The study also showed that higher temperatures during production result in reduced emissions of methane and ammonia.
Researchers at Imperial College London designed a video game called Balloon Buddies to enable physically impaired patients to engage in rehabilitation through collaboration with healthy volunteers. The study found that this type of engagement boosts performance and increases motivation, leading to better physical outcomes.
A new study suggests that few people should be asked to leave their homes after a big nuclear accident, as the cost of relocation outweighs the benefits. The J-value method, developed by Professor Philip Thomas, assesses the trade-off between safety measures and life expectancy gains.
According to University of Illinois psychology professor Aron Barbey, the brain's ability to flexibly transition between network states is crucial for general intelligence. This flexibility involves forming and reforming connections in response to changing needs, supporting both crystallized and fluid intelligence.
The study, published in Journal of Adolescent Health, analyzed nationally-representative data from Natsal surveys and found rising prevalence of oral and anal sex among 16-24 year olds, with median age at first heterosexual experience remaining stable.
The University of Texas at San Antonio researchers aim to identify specific DNA markers that indicate fecal contamination, evaluate its level, and locate its origin. The project will also educate the public on ways to keep local water resources safe from contamination.
A study found that only 20% of Indonesian women are aware of cervical smears, with even lower rates for mammography. Higher education, household expenditure, and health insurance were associated with increased awareness and participation. Experts call for improved education and access to resources to increase cancer screening rates.
A study in Malaysia assesses the effectiveness of mainstreaming genetic counselling for ovarian cancer patients. Preliminary results show that most patients are satisfied with their experience, regardless of whether they receive counselling by a trained clinician or a genetic counsellor.
A study in Myanmar found that all mouth cancer patients use smokeless tobacco, with betel quid chewing being a common habit among the population. The study highlights the importance of increasing awareness about the risks of betel quid chewing to prevent head and neck cancer.
Scientists at Newcastle University have developed a coating that allows individual stromal cells to detach from the surface, enabling continuous cell growth. This innovation can produce up to a billion cells per week, making it ideal for cell-based therapies requiring large numbers of cells.
Research highlights seagrass meadows' role as crucial fishing grounds worldwide, supporting daily food supply and livelihoods. The study emphasizes the need for sustainable management of these ecosystems to mitigate the 'tragedy of the seagrass commons',
A recent study reveals that over a quarter of cancer survivors experience poor quality of life post-treatment, with significant unmet needs in eight out of ten countries. The study highlights the need for comprehensive survivorship care and coordinated resources to support cancer patients.
The UTSA DEEP Learning in Texas Project aims to address professional shortages in school psychology and deaf education. Graduate students will complete cooperative coursework and gain hands-on experience through internships.
Children vaccinated against influenza are less likely to experience serious complications from the virus that could land them in hospital. The flu vaccine has been shown to be effective at preventing influenza hospitalizations in young kids, with a significant reduction in risk seen for both fully and partially vaccinated children.
A new meta-analysis confirms the effectiveness of vaginal progesterone in reducing preterm birth risk and improving perinatal outcomes for women with a shortened cervix. The study found significant reductions in preterm birth rates and neonatal complications, as well as improved childhood neurodevelopment.
A study published in Stem Cell Reports reveals that DNA-encoded factors influence the vulnerability of brain cells to Alzheimer's disease. Brain regions with higher Aβ protein levels are more susceptible to damage, while protected areas have a less toxic response.
Scientists at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute successfully grow strain-free germanium films on mica using van der Waals forces, overcoming the challenge of lattice mismatch. This breakthrough enables the growth of relaxed films with potential applications in high-efficiency solar cells and advanced electronic devices.
Argonne is collaborating with HPE to evaluate early versions of Cavium ARM ThunderX2 processors for the ARM ecosystem, seeking a cost-effective alternative to x86 architectures. The Comanche Wave prototype ARM64 server platform will be installed at Argonne's testing environment to support this work.
Researchers at Georgia Institute of Technology have demonstrated that certain ligands can create signals similar to those of molecular oxygen, potentially masking true discoveries. The study highlights the tool's limitations and emphasizes the need for careful interpretation in specific cases.
Scientists at Washington University in St. Louis have developed the first experimental map of a cyanobacteria's water world, revealing pathways that could be used to deliver water to the active site. The discovery advances photosynthesis research and has implications for green fuels.
A protein called tyrosine kinase 6 (PTK6) has been identified as a potential therapeutic target for estrogen receptor positive (ER+) breast cancer. PTK6 promotes cancer cell survival and growth in ER+ breast cancer cells, making it a promising avenue for developing new treatments.
Researchers found that deleting a stem cell transcription factor SOX2 in adult mice promotes recovery after traumatic brain injury (TBI). The study suggests that increased astrocyte reactivity may not be beneficial for brain tissue integrity following TBI.
Researchers analyzed EGFR mutation status in blood and cerebrospinal fluid to identify relationship with neurological symptoms and leptomeningeal metastases. The study found higher rates of EGFR mutations in cerebrospinal fluid for patients with brain metastases, offering new non-invasive testing options.
A study found that trees and green space are associated with a decrease in people admitted to hospital with asthma. In the most polluted urban areas, trees had a strong association with fewer emergency asthma cases.
A Swedish study of over 3.4 million individuals found that dog owners had a lower risk of cardiovascular disease and death. Dog ownership was particularly protective for singles, with a 33% reduced risk of death and 11% reduced risk of myocardial infarction.
A new study found that child snoring is associated with worsening obesity and increased metabolic risk, creating a vicious cycle. Children who snored were more likely to develop higher body fat mass and obesity later in childhood or adolescence.
The University of Surrey has developed a cost-effective catalyst to recycle carbon dioxide (CO2) and methane (CH4) into fuels and valuable chemicals. The new 'supercatalyst' could make chemical CO2 recycling more widely available across industry, reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
Researchers from the University of Houston and IBM report emerging technologies that can increase plastic recycling rates, including chemical recycling methods and compatibilization of mixed plastic wastes. The goal is to improve efficiency and reduce energy costs, paving the way for more easily recyclable materials.
Researchers at Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz have developed a novel synthesis strategy for highly reactive substances, overcoming the formation of polymers through electrochemical polymerization. This method uses an environmentally friendly approach with minimal reagent waste and produces only hydrogen as byproduct.