A new study from Washington University School of Medicine and VA St. Louis Health Care System found that breathing dirty air may harm kidneys. The research analyzed data on nearly 2.5 million people over 8.5 years, concluding that high levels of particulate matter increase the risk of chronic kidney disease and failure.
Perovskite solar cells could generate electricity more efficiently by harnessing the kinetic energy of electrons moving at high speeds. The study found that electrons retain their highest levels of energy for up to 10 quadrillionths of a second, limiting the time frame for extraction.
Researchers propose using the element vanadium to verify microfossils for signs of life on Mars. Vanadium can substitute into biological compounds and is found in known biological sources, such as chlorophyll.
A new analysis of a Neandertal child's skeleton suggests that Neandertals may have experienced an extended period of brain growth compared to modern humans. The study found that the 7-year-old Neandertal had a brain size similar to that of an adult, challenging previous theories on brain development.
The UM Rosenstiel School has received over $14 million in funding to continue research on the effects of the Deepwater Horizon oil spill. Researchers will focus on analyzing unprecedented data and publishing new findings, while also studying the impacts of crude oil on ecologically and commercially valuable fish in the Gulf of Mexico.
The University of Texas at San Antonio has assembled a world-class research enterprise to develop groundbreaking approaches for treating brain diseases and injuries. Researchers will collaborate on complex projects using expertise in neurodegenerative disease, regenerative medicine, and stem cell therapies.
Researchers warn of the dangers of cannabinoid abuse, particularly seizures, caused by synthetic cannabinoids like JWH-018. A potential treatment with CB1R antagonist AM-251 has been proposed for cases of cannabinoid overdose.
A new synthetic molecule, SUW133, has been designed to reactivate dormant human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) in mice and lead to cell death. In a study published in PLOS Pathogens, researchers found that up to 25% of latently infected cells died within 24 hours after treatment.
Researchers at Osaka University developed a novel chimeric antibody fragment to aid in the structural determination of 'uncrystallizable' target proteins. The Fv-clasp design improved production compatibility and stability while maintaining binding ability, enabling successful crystallization of biologically important proteins.
Men who are physically active in mid-life are nearly three times as likely to be active 20 years later. Sport participation in midlife is key to maintaining physical function and self-efficacy into older age.
Researchers at Stanford University School of Medicine found that cutting off access to a signaling molecule can halt the growth of certain aggressive brain tumors. The team's findings suggest that interrupting the neuroligin-3 signal could be a helpful strategy for controlling high-grade gliomas in human patients.
The University of Freiburg is leading a three-year project to strengthen gender skills in MINT disciplines and promote equal opportunities. The initiative will develop online teaching modules highlighting the impact of diversity on medical diagnoses and combating gender stereotypes in technology.
Scientists at NIH and Sanofi created a trispecific antibody that protects monkeys from two strains of SHIV, a monkey form of HIV. The antibody stops more strains from infecting cells than individual natural antibodies, showing promise for long-acting prevention and treatment.
A University of British Columbia study suggests that providing women with early knowledge about pregnancy and childbirth can help reduce unnecessary Caesarean deliveries. Young women who had sufficient information on childbirth preferred vaginal births over Caesarean deliveries by a significant margin.
Research shows that people confuse faces with different expressions, even when they are clearly from the same person. Facial recognition is hindered by expressive faces until familiarity increases.
A large study found that steroid inhalers used to treat asthma and COPD in people over 66 increase the risk of nontuberculous mycobacteria infections. The study suggests that these infections are chronic, difficult to treat, and associated with an increased risk of death.
A five-year study of over 373,000 Europeans found that eating nuts was associated with less weight gain and a 5% lower risk of becoming overweight or obese. Researchers recommend incorporating nuts into daily diets for their satiating properties and potential health benefits.
Researchers used 3-D scans of fossil canid mandibles to determine whether they belonged to dogs or wolves. The study found that the skull changed shape but the evolution of the mandible lagged behind, making it unreliable for identifying early dog fossils.
A new analysis finds that victims of gunshots and stabbings are less likely to die if transported to a trauma center by private vehicle rather than ground emergency medical services. Penetrating injuries such as knife and gun wounds showed a significant reduction in mortality rates when transported privately.
A team of researchers found that endoreduplication, a process promoting cellular enlargement, occurs randomly and contributes to cell size variation. The study's mathematical model successfully reproduced experimental dynamics, revealing exponential boosting as the mechanism behind cell size determination.
Researchers at Joslin Diabetes Center identified PKC-delta as a natural protective factor that works against chronic inflammation in diabetes, which can lead to cardiovascular disease. The study found that PKC-delta suppresses the population of macrophages and inhibits a biological pathway that protects cells from dying.
Women and men in chemistry face traumatic experiences of sexual harassment, with many not reporting incidents due to shame or fear of retribution. In response, universities and science departments are establishing training and support networks, while legislation proposes requiring university reports to federal agencies.
The city of Teotihuacan in Central Mexico stands alone with its innovative apartment compounds and well-planned residential areas. Its design was previously unknown until Michael E. Smith's study revealed its uniqueness.
A study published in BMC Public Health suggests that increasing tobacco taxes across the EU can lead to significant reductions in cigarette consumption, particularly in higher-income countries. In contrast, lower-income countries may experience negative tax revenue effects, highlighting the need for alternative funding strategies.
A new study reveals that the IGPR-1 protein plays a critical role in colon tumor growth and drug resistance, identifying it as a potential target for treatment. Blocking IGPR-1 with an antibody or shRNA inhibits tumor growth, suggesting significant therapeutic potential.
Researchers have found that a protein called FBXL5 plays a crucial role in regulating iron levels by adding molecular tags to IRP-1, which can then be degraded. This discovery sheds light on the complex network of checks and balances underlying cellular iron regulation.
A new study reveals Easter Island's maximum population size could have reached 17,500 people, supported by the island's agricultural potential. The research, published in Frontiers in Ecology and Evolution, aims to unravel the mystery of the giant statues and population crash.
A recent study found that women with coronary heart disease are less likely to achieve treatment targets than men. Women were more likely to have better control of blood pressure and be non-smokers, but struggled with cholesterol levels, physical activity, and obesity.
A three-day training programme called the Lightning Process has been shown to improve physical function and reduce symptoms in children with chronic fatigue syndrome. The study, published in Archives of Disease in Childhood, suggests that the LP is more effective when combined with specialist medical care.
A randomized trial of over 45,000 people found that frequent blood donation increased blood collected by 33% in men and 24% in women, with no major impact on quality of life or physical activity. However, some donors reported minor symptoms like tiredness and restless legs.
A new Pew Research Center survey explores Americans' science news habits and their views on sources of science news. Most Americans (54%) regularly get their science news from general news outlets, while about half say specialty sources such as museums, magazines, and documentaries provide more accurate information.
Researchers at Penn State have developed a new biomaterial that can replace plastic barrier coatings in packaging and other applications, offering strong oil and water barrier properties. The material, comprised of treated cellulose pulp and chitosan, is compostable and has the potential to greatly reduce pollution if widely adopted.
Scientists couple cell phone data with sewage testing to reveal fluctuations in population size, showing pharmaceutical use remains stable while illicit drug use rises, particularly on weekends
A modified poliovirus therapy has been found to induce an inflammation process that counteracts cancer cells' ability to evade the immune system. The therapy activates dendritic cells and macrophages, which present tumor antigens to T-cells, launching a targeted immune response.
Researchers found that poison frogs will carry experimentally placed tadpoles to pools, triggering parental care instinct. The study suggests that tactile stimuli from the tadpoles play a key role in this complex behavior.
Researchers at HRL Laboratories successfully 3D print high-strength aluminum alloys, including Al7075 and Al6061, overcoming a long-standing challenge in additive manufacturing. Their nanoparticle functionalization technique prevents hot cracking and retains alloy strength.
Researchers discover genetic alteration directly involved in at least 10% of T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia cases. The Capicua gene acts as a tumour suppressor and is linked to resistance to certain treatments.
A special issue in the Journal of Dental Research explores recent scientific and technical advances in craniofacial development and genetics. The discoveries reported could improve diagnosis and treatment of challenging craniofacial and dental anomalies.
The article highlights key findings on safety strategies among female college students, who were more likely to report a safe haven if they had higher levels of social support. In contrast, youth involved in prostitution face inadequate treatment by police and social service agencies under the Trafficking Victims Protection Act of 2000.
A recent study demonstrated that the prospect of monetary reward stimulates the fronto-striatal network, resulting in reduced cognitive fatigue in individuals with MS and healthy controls. This nonpharmacological approach shows promise for treating cognitive fatigue in multiple sclerosis.
A study found that a non-burdensome scientific reframing intervention improved patients' understanding of clinical research and its differences from clinical care. The 12-minute slideshow had no significant effect on participants' desire to enroll, but reduced therapeutic misconception scores by about 6 points.
The Pitt research team is developing a new approach using machine learning and quantum chemistry calculations to predict effective and degradable chelating agent candidates. This project aims to improve the sustainability of industries such as detergent manufacturing, heavy metal treatment, and waste remediation.
Research by MU professor Rui Yao found that women's lower net worth and higher income uncertainty contribute to their reduced risk tolerance. Women are more likely to have uncertain incomes, leading them to be more conservative in their investing, especially during child-rearing periods.
Scientists at ITbM, Nagoya University have synthesized a new bioactive small molecule that increases stomata numbers on flowering plants without stunting their growth. The team's discovery could help elucidate the stomatal development mechanism in plants and increase crop plant productivity.
A large study found that childhood-onset inflammatory bowel disease is associated with an increased risk of any cancer, especially gastrointestinal cancers. Absolute risks are low, but the higher risk persists into adulthood. Chronic inflammation and family history are key risk factors for cancer in children with IBD.
Researchers at Yale University found that individualized diets based on food sensitivity testing significantly improved symptoms in patients with irritable bowel syndrome compared to a placebo. The study suggests that tailored dietary approaches may be a viable alternative to traditional treatments.
The University of Akron has launched a program called 'Zip to Industry' to explore the impact of job shadowing on STEM student retention. The project aims to provide paid job shadowing experiences for at-risk first-year STEM students to help them gain exposure to real-world work and develop skills needed to succeed.
Washington State University researchers found that exposure to atrazine herbicide during pregnancy led to increased diseases in grand- and great-grand offspring, including testis disease, altered sperm production, and early-onset puberty. Epigenetic inheritance changes were identified as the underlying mechanism.
A team of engineers and clinicians at Rochester Institute of Technology are developing a non-contact video recording technology to detect atrial fibrillation. The app will capture heart activity data while patients use tablets or smartphones, providing valuable insights for medical practitioners.
Researchers found that both positive and negative moods can spread through friendship networks, but depression has limited impact. Having more depressed friends increases the risk of low moods, while a positive social circle decreases it.
Drexel University researchers have created a fabric-like material electrode that could help make energy storage devices faster and less susceptible to leaks or fires. Their design uses a thick ion-rich gel electrolyte absorbed in a freestanding mat of porous carbon nanofibers, eliminating the need for flammable liquids.
Researchers developed a new tool, San Diego Wisdom Scale (SD-WISE), to measure an individual's level of wisdom. The scale successfully measured five out of six targeted domains, including prosocial attitudes and emotional regulation, and showed correlation with psychological well-being.
Broccoli sprouts contain higher levels of glucosinolates, a key compound for their potential health benefits. High pressure processing has been found to maintain these beneficial compounds while eliminating bacteria.
Tropical Storm Jose is a large storm with strongest storms in its northeastern part, causing dangerous ocean conditions from Bermuda to the US East coast. Infrared data from NASA's Aqua satellite shows cloud top temperatures around minus 50 degrees Fahrenheit, indicating weaker storms.
A systematic review of 1169 studies found that exercise therapy alone is as effective as manual treatment combined with exercise for treating grade I-II neck pain. The researchers conclude that prescribing manual treatments in addition to exercise may not provide additional benefits, potentially reducing long queues and costs.
A new hermit crab species, Diogenes heteropsammicola, has been discovered that adopts a walking coral as its home instead of a seashell. The crab transports the coral and prevents it from being buried by sediment, offering an advantage over traditional shell homes.
Researchers have discovered that the presence of ApoE4 exacerbates brain damage caused by tau tangles, leading to neurodegeneration and memory loss. Blocking ApoE4 in the brain may prevent these effects, offering a new potential therapeutic target for Alzheimer's disease.
Researchers at the University of Manchester have developed a tiny robot that can perform basic tasks such as building molecules using a robotic arm. The robots operate by carrying out chemical reactions in special solutions that can be programmed by scientists.
A NYU College of Dentistry team will compare the effectiveness of two cavity-prevention techniques in elementary schools in the Bronx, with a focus on improving oral health equity. The five-year study aims to determine the most effective school-based prevention methods and their impact on quality of life and student achievement.
A study of 54,763 women found a nearly three-fold elevated risk of lupus among those with probable PTSD and more than two-fold higher risk among those who experienced traumatic events. The findings contribute to growing evidence that psychosocial trauma affects autoimmune disease.