A University of Kansas study found that students who participated in a social media program learned scientific argumentation better than their peers. The program, which used Twitter and Skype, improved students' ability to share scientific claims, discuss phenomena, and demonstrate knowledge.
A recent study found that chronic cell death promotes the development of liver cancer by causing remaining cells to divide at higher rates. The researchers also identified caspase 8 as an enzyme playing a dual role in this process, involving both apoptosis and DNA repair.
Branching Acropora corals, once a dominant reef-building species, now represent less than 5% of living corals on the Great Barrier Reef. The decline in resilience is linked to discrete disturbances during the early to mid-20th century.
A large study found that individuals with 'metabolically healthy obese' (MHO) have a higher risk of cardiovascular disease events, including coronary heart disease and strokes. This contradicts the notion that MHO is harmless and highlights the importance of weight loss for all obese individuals.
A recent study analyzed U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission filings for 10 companies developing a cancer drug from 2006 through 2015, estimating a median time of 7.3 years to develop the drug and a median cost of $648 million.
Researchers discovered that promoting T cells to use fat as energy instead of glucose increases their antitumor activity and improves T cell function within tumors. This metabolic shift also enhances the efficacy of immune checkpoint blockade therapy.
Researchers at Boston Children's Hospital have developed a new DNA nanoswitch platform that can detect biomarkers associated with different diseases, viral strains, and genetic variabilities. The NLISA system uses gel electrophoresis to screen synthesized DNA reagents that change shape in the presence of a specific biomarker.
A new study by Tufts University found that adding 48 minutes of moderate exercise per week can improve overall physical functioning and lower the risk of major mobility disability in older adults. This is particularly encouraging as it suggests that even small, incremental changes to activity levels can have significant benefits.
A new independent study confirms that 73% of ERC projects have made breakthroughs or major scientific advances. The European Research Council's blue sky research is achieving its goals of funding high-risk/high-gain projects and interdisciplinary frontier research.
Periglacial zones, which cover a quarter of the Earth's land surface, are expected to reduce dramatically by 2050 and almost disappear by 2100 due to climate change. This could trigger significant changes in landscapes and biodiversity, with potential implications for regional climate systems.
A new study found that hospital admission for non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) significantly raises the risk of cardiovascular disease and death in individuals with type 2 diabetes. NAFLD was associated with a 62% increase in incident cardiovascular events and a 40% increased risk of cardiovascular death.
Researchers at TU Graz have developed a new brain-computer interface application called Brain Composer, which allows users to compose and play music solely through their thoughts. The study involved 18 test subjects who were able to create and play back melodies using the BCI system after a short training session.
A new research paper suggests that human cell- and computer-based test methods can help identify chemical respiratory allergens, which cause serious immune reactions. These methods have the potential to speed up testing, lower costs, and reduce animal testing.
The COMBI-AD trial found that combination dabrafenib and trametinib therapy doubled relapse-free survival in stage III BRAF-mutant melanoma patients. The treatment was also shown to improve overall survival, distant metastases-free survival, and freedom from relapse.
A new study reveals a clear relationship between the frontal bones and forebrain as well as parietal bones and midbrain in dinosaurs and birds. The research used CT scanning techniques to analyze embryos of lizards, alligators, and birds, confirming the link found in reptiles.
The study identified rotavirus as the leading pathogen among children under five, with a high incidence of severe cases in infants. Effective preventive measures include vaccination, oral rehydration salts, and proper hygiene practices.
The ICSU World Data System has launched the CoreTrustSeal Certification, a core-level certification for Trustworthy Data Repositories. The certification is based on the DSA-WDS Core Trustworthy Data Repositories Requirements catalogue and procedures, aiming to promote sustainable and trustworthy data infrastructures.
Researchers developed a predictive model of inflammatory bowel disease by integrating DNA variation, gene expression, and clinical information. The model identifies key regulators of the immune component and may lead to new treatments for patients.
A 67-year-old man developed cyanide poisoning after taking apricot kernel extract daily for five years, exceeding safe levels by 25 times. The case highlights the risks of consuming unregulated herbal supplements and the importance of proper medical evaluation.
Researchers have developed a new technique to visualize the human cardiac conduction system in 3D, providing unprecedented details. This technology will aid cardiologists in placing prosthetic valves near the heart's conduction system, reducing risks and improving surgical outcomes for patients with congenital heart diseases.
Scientists have documented a clear-cut instance of a massive earthquake triggering slow slip events in New Zealand, some occurring as far away as 300 miles from the epicenter. This study provides new insights into the relationships between slow slip events and earthquakes.
Researchers have created a new material that can absorb carbon monoxide more effectively than other materials, with potential applications in syngas production and reactions where CO is an unwanted contaminant. The material uses less energy to capture and reuse CO compared to existing technologies.
NASA's Suomi NPP satellite captured a nighttime infrared image of Hurricane Irma on Sept. 11, showing the storm's large extent over Florida, Georgia, Alabama, and the Carolinas. The storm has weakened to a tropical storm but can still cause significant impacts, with maximum sustained winds near 65 mph.
A new paper defines 50 term pairs in psychology, including envy/jealousy and disease/illness, to improve psychological literacy. The list helps distinguish between related concepts, such as punishment vs. negative reinforcement, antisocial vs. asocial behavior.
Researchers at Osaka University discovered a rare genetic variant, RTN4R, that may play a fundamental role in schizophrenia. This finding supports the hypothesis that myelin-related genes are associated with the disease.
A new study found that adults who sit for one to two hours without moving have a higher mortality rate than those with shorter bouts of sedentary time. Breaking up long sitting periods into shorter intervals can help reduce death risk, according to researchers.
A new study suggests that specific genetic variants increase the risk of developing type 1 diabetes in later life, including after the age of 30. The research found that individuals with certain HLA genotypes have a higher likelihood of developing late-onset T1D and being diagnosed at an older age.
New research reveals striking racial and ethnic disparities in lupus incidence and prevalence, with higher rates found in Black, Hispanic, and Asian populations. The findings emphasize the need for vigilant diagnosis and prompt care for these groups, particularly in cases of arthritis, rashes, and kidney disease symptoms.
A new study by the University of Bath reveals that companies can unwittingly hire modern slavery victims due to lack of oversight in outsourced recruitment. The research highlights the need for companies to focus on their labour supply chains to detect and prevent forced labour, similar to how they trace product supply chains.
Researchers at Georgia Institute of Technology developed an AI system that can recreate a game engine using less than two minutes of gameplay video. The AI makes predictions of future events, such as character movement and enemy reactions, by studying the frames and making predictions of what path a character will take.
Researchers used a network approach to analyze the polygonal patterns in clouds, finding that they can be re-created using a simple mathematical model. This new method promises to help scientists improve the accuracy of cloud descriptions in computer models, which is crucial for climate projections.
A Northeastern research team has developed a method for loading DNA into sequencing wells, increasing efficiency by orders of magnitude. The technology uses nanopores to attract larger DNA segments, enabling the sequencing of longer molecules.
A review of high-quality observational studies found that drinking up to four units a week during pregnancy was associated with an 8% higher risk of having a small baby. The researchers conclude that the evidence is sparse, and guidance should advise abstention as a precautionary principle.
The 2017 Balzan Prizewinners were announced for their groundbreaking work in Collective Memory, Gender Studies, Immunological Approaches in Cancer Therapy, and The Sun's Planetary System and Exoplanets. Aleida and Jan Assmann won the Prize for Collective Memory, while Bina Agarwal received the Prize for Gender Studies.
Researchers found that children with Medicaid and private insurance had similar survival rates, but those without insurance were at a higher risk of death. The study suggests that Medicaid is comparable to private insurance for kids with cancer.
A new study found that people of black or mixed ethnicities, as well as those from lower socioeconomic status, are less likely to have consistent monitoring for diabetes and its complications. The research suggests that these disparities may worsen existing ethnic and socioeconomic inequalities in diabetes outcomes.
Researchers at University of Basel successfully used mirrors to boost NV centers' photon yield by 50% and emission rate by 100%. This breakthrough paves the way for future applications in quantum information technology.
Researchers at ICFO and MPL create a hollow-core photonic crystal fiber system producing single-cycle IR pulses at an unprecedented repetition rate of 160 kHz. This enables applications such as real-time electron motions observation in single molecules, opening a window to watching subatomic processes during chemical reactions.
Researchers have uncovered a wealth of information about ancient wetlands on North Stradbroke Island, which offer never-before-seen insights into climate change since the last ice age. The discovery provides a unique window into past climate and environments, shedding light on how plants and animals survived in a dry climate.
Researchers found that gut bacteria regulate lipid uptake by hacking into the circadian clocks in gut cells. The microbiome helps establish the essential molecular link NFIL3, which regulates body composition and metabolism. This discovery may lead to new strategies to fight obesity.
A new method of analyzing subcutaneous fat has been developed to predict which patients will respond well to obesity surgery. The FAT score technique showed a significant association between a patient's fat score and their response to surgery, with severely obese patients having an increased risk of poor weight loss response.
A new study led by NYU School of Medicine found that Hispanic and Asian women in Manhattan have a higher prevalence and severity of lupus than white women. The study also showed significant disparities in kidney disease among these demographic groups.
Researchers warn that US East Coast cities are under threat from more frequent and severe flooding due to the region's slow subsidence into the Atlantic Ocean. Human activities such as groundwater extraction and reservoir creation have accelerated this process, with some areas sinking at a rate of up to three millimeters per year.
Researchers found that fire ant venom compounds can reduce skin thickening and inflammation in a mouse model of psoriasis. The solenopsin analogs, similar to ceramides, can restore the skin's barrier function and decrease immune cell infiltration.
Researchers discovered that disrupting DNA loops in glial cells can reduce NFIA expression and tumor proliferation. This finding opens a potential new approach to treating glioma, a deadly form of brain cancer.
A new study reveals that birds' skulls evolved differently from their relatives, resembling those of young dinosaurs and crocodiles. The team's analysis suggests that adult modern birds retain features of 'young' dinosaur ancestors, such as proportionally larger brains and eyes.
Researchers at Universidad Complutense de Madrid developed a biosensor that can detect adulterated horse meat in beef within 1 hour, using mitochondrial DNA fragments. This technology offers improved selectivity and reliability compared to existing methods.
A smartphone application developed by Osaka University aims to address Japan's sleep deprivation issues in infants. The 'NEN-NE Navi' app connects caregivers with pediatric experts, providing personalized advice to improve infants' sleep habits and reduce parenting stress.
Researchers at The Australian National University have developed a groundbreaking material that enables a global quantum internet by storing quantum information in an erbium-doped crystal for more than a second, significantly longer than previous attempts. This breakthrough aims to unlock the full potential of future quantum computers.
Researchers at The Wistar Institute have discovered a novel metastasis suppressor pathway orchestrated by the mitochondrial protein SNPH. This pathway promotes tumor cell proliferation in local growth but inhibits invasion and metastasis. By studying SNPH, scientists may uncover new therapeutic approaches to target metastatic cells.
A new model of climate change effects suggests that diversity in bee species may save the day for coffee production in Latin America. The study, which considers both plants and animals, predicts that at least five bee species will be left in future coffee-suitable areas, with 10 species remaining in about half of the regions.
The KEYNOTE-040 trial found that pembrolizumab significantly improved outcomes in patients with recurrent or metastatic head and neck squamous cell carcinoma, especially those with high PD-L1 expression. The study also showed a better side-effect profile for pembrolizumab compared to standard treatments.
Researchers found a correlation between predictable maternal sensory signals and improved cognitive function in children, with unpredictable signals linked to memory problems. Maternal predictability may influence cognitive development across species.
Computer simulations reveal that turbulence in plasma jets emerges from heat-induced sound waves, offering a new understanding of plasma's therapeutic properties. This insight may lead to more consistent and effective medical therapies, including wound healing and cancer treatment.
Researchers have developed a new promising feedstock for biojet fuel that could replace up to 65% of national jet fuel consumption. The feedstock, called lipidcane, produces oil-rich sugarcane that can be converted into biodiesel or jet fuel.
Kimera Biotecnologia's biotech eCG has proven as effective as conventional eCG, reducing production costs by 30-50% and eliminating animal blood use. The hormone is produced in the lab, hastening puberty, inducing superovulation, and increasing fecundity.
Researchers identified specific gut microbes associated with multiple sclerosis, suggesting they play a role in regulating immune responses and potentially contributing to disease progression. The study found that certain bacteria can trigger pro-inflammatory or anti-inflammatory responses in the immune system.
The study recovers 8,280 bacterial and 623 archaeal genomes from environmental samples, increasing the number of known life forms by nearly 10%. This represents a significant boost to our understanding of microbial diversity and its role in critical biogeochemical processes.
Researchers at the University of Illinois study relationship maintenance strategies, finding that threats and relationship enhancement are intertwined. Couples can use individual or interactive approaches to mitigate conflicts and foster growth in their relationships.
A breakthrough in gene synthesis has been achieved using a chemical method that overcomes limitations of existing methods by incorporating epigenetic information into genes. This new approach, click DNA ligation, enables rapid and efficient assembly of modified DNA fragments into functional genes.