Researchers at Duke University have pinpointed a single type of neuron, the fast-spiking interneuron (FSI), as the master controller of habitual behavior. Forming a habit makes FSI cells more excitable, and shutting them down with a drug breaks habits in sugar-seeking mice.
A new study suggests that coastal marine ecosystems can be better managed with restoration instead of protection on limited budgets, according to researchers from the University of Queensland. The model compared scenarios of restoration versus protection and found that active marine restoration may be the most cost-effective way over d...
Researchers create non-invasive ESR imaging technique using quantum probes to detect and image electronic spins with sub-cellular resolution. This breakthrough provides new insights into the role of transition metal ions in biology and disease, offering a promising tool for probing human biochemistry.
According to a recent report, 8.1% of seniors in the US are food insecure, with some states experiencing significantly higher rates. The top 10 states for senior food insecurity rates include those in the South and Northeast, highlighting regional disparities in access to nutritious food.
A new study by Dartmouth researchers has precisely determined the mechanism of cancer drug gemcitabine in human patients, enabling more effective combination therapies and rational clinical trial design. The research bridged the gap between experimental models and human trials, providing valuable insights into the drug's effects on cel...
The conference emphasizes that hepatitis C elimination is impossible without prioritizing people who use drugs, as they account for 8% of those living with chronic hepatitis C. New treatments have sparked hope for a world free of the disease, but testing and treatment remain low in many countries.
A new classification scheme for planetary stages based on non-equilibrium thermodynamics categorizes worlds by energy flow and life's effect. This framework, proposed by researchers, places Earth in Class IV due to its thick biosphere and strong impact from human activities.
A study by Valeria Valente identified genetic alterations promoting aggressiveness in astrocytomas, with correlations to patient survival prognosis. The research aimed to customize treatment to patient needs, potentially predicting tumor behavior through gene signatures.
A study from the University of Waterloo found that practicing Hatha yoga and mindfulness meditation can significantly improve brain function and energy levels. The study showed that even brief sessions of just 25 minutes per day can boost executive functions and cognitive abilities.
An observational study found that stroke survivors had a higher incidence of cancer compared to the general population, with most cases diagnosed within six months after a stroke. The study identified several factors associated with increased risk of developing cancer in stroke patients.
Engineers at University of New South Wales invent radical new architecture for quantum computing based on novel 'flip-flop qubits'. The design allows for silicon quantum processor that can be scaled up without precise placement of atoms, enabling easier fabrication and placement of thousands or millions of qubits.
A team from the Technical University of Munich developed tests to assess fine motor skills in patients with hemiparesis after a stroke. The new methods identified three decisive factors: grip force control, motor coordination, and movement speed, predicting 69% of everyday deficits.
A global analysis suggests that climate change could lead to the extinction of up to a third of parasite species by 2070. The study used museum collections and GPS coordinates to understand conservation risks. Parasite diversity is a key indicator of ecosystem health, highlighting their critical role in maintaining balance.
A team of materials designers led by Dynamic Research Inc. won the grand prize of $500,000 for developing a novel material with an unusual geometric structure that can absorb or mitigate force within helmets and other protective gear, reducing impact by over 70%. The winning entry has potential to support innovation and stimulate the m...
A new study has found that older adults who are frail before experiencing trauma are at a higher risk of in-hospital death and transfer to long-term care facilities. The researchers used the Clinical Frailty Scale to assess frailty in patients, which showed that nearly 70% of those with pre-admission frailty had negative outcomes compa...
A large randomised trial found that digital cognitive behavioural therapy for insomnia improved not only sleep but also reduced symptoms of depression, anxiety, and hallucinations. The findings suggest that addressing sleep problems may play a causal role in the development of some mental health symptoms.
Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) scientists have designed a novel silicon-based anode to provide lithium batteries with increased power and better stability. The new anode, featuring nanostructured layers of silicon, improves the battery's ability to charge and deliver energy over time.
Conflict durations in monkey societies grow more quickly as others join, according to researchers studying dynamic conflict patterns. The first interaction sets the tone for the fight, with brief episodes likely to follow if initial interactions are brief.
Researchers at the University of Leeds have created an alternative pathway for peroxisome organelles to import proteins, leading to the development of 'designer organelles'. These custom compartments could be used as biofactories for producing therapeutic proteins or other useful molecules.
Tropical Storm Katia is developing near Mexico's east coast with maximum sustained winds of 45 mph and forecasted to produce 5-10 inches of rain over northern Veracruz. Strengthening is expected, potentially making it a hurricane before approaching the coast.
A team of researchers from MIPT and Ghent University has created a highly realistic model that can reproduce the complexity of the cardiac microstructure, enabling scientists to better understand the causes of fibrosis and its link to arrhythmia. The model's accuracy is due in part to its consideration of cell shapes and interactions.
Dissolvable electronics can be triggered to dissolve by ambient moisture, offering a new way to make environmentally friendly devices and biomedical implants. Researchers have developed a model that controls the dissolution kinetics of functional devices, allowing for precise control over the transient period.
A study found that ungroomed areas on bees' bodies match the position of flower pollen-sacs and stigmas, facilitating pollen transfer. The researchers also discovered that these 'safe sites' are contacted by flowers' reproductive organs, allowing for efficient pollination.
Researchers challenge traditional battery commercialization approach by incorporating lessons from the pharmaceutical industry. They propose a tailored proposal for entrepreneurs, investors, manufacturers, and policymakers to fuel battery innovation, including niche applications, strategic partnerships, targeted capital raises, and cus...
Researchers found that a fatty acid-derived bioactive molecule called lipoxin improved heart function after a heart attack by inducing the resolving immune response. Lipoxin treatment also reduced left ventricle and lung mass-to-body-weight ratios, improving ejection fraction, and decreased kidney inflammation.
A new web-based tool developed by Georgetown University's Center for Global Health Science and Security allows national leaders to calculate the cost of developing health capacities. The tool provides a realistic, country-specific estimate of the costs needed to be compliant with International Health Regulations.
The new 9vHPV vaccine targets nine high-risk HPV types, significantly reducing the risk of cervical cancer, genital warts, and HPV-related vulvar and vaginal cancers. The study found that the vaccine is highly effective in preventing HPV infection and disease, with a 97.7% reduction in risk.
Researchers found 27 distinct dimensions of emotion that account for hundreds of people's reported feelings in response to video clips. The study challenges the notion that emotions are finite clusters and instead reveals smooth gradients between emotions.
A recent study published in Pain Management Nursing found that nurse staffing is a key contributor to patient satisfaction with pain control. The research highlights the need for adequate numbers of nursing staff and effective collaboration among medical trainees, hospitalists, and nurses to achieve optimal patient satisfaction.
Researchers found that statins reduced twenty year mortality rates by 18% and overall risk of death by coronary heart disease by 28%. The study suggests that even modest LDL reductions over time will translate into large mortality benefits for those with elevated cholesterol levels above 155mg/dL.
A study found that listening to happy music, specifically classical music with positive valence and high arousal, facilitates more divergent creative thinking. Participants who came up with the most original solutions scored higher in divergent creativity.
A study by Indiana University researchers found that cannabidiol reduces symptoms such as impaired memory in adolescent mice exposed to THC, suggesting a protective effect of CBD against the negative effects of chronic THC use.
A new study from the University of Illinois explains why herbicide rotation doesn't work against herbicide-resistant weeds like waterhemp. The researchers found that even with long rotations, the frequency of resistance alleles does not decrease significantly.
Researchers developed PupilScreen, a smartphone app that detects changes in pupil's response to light using AI-powered deep learning tools, promising improved diagnosis accuracy for concussion and TBI. The app can be used by coaches, parents, medics, and others on the sidelines of sports games or in emergency situations.
A study published in The BMJ found an association between antidepressant use during pregnancy and a higher risk of psychiatric disorder diagnosis in children. Researchers stress that this finding should be interpreted with caution, as the underlying maternal illness may contribute to the increased risk.
Researchers from Boston University School of Medicine discovered that enhancing palmitoylation in the variant MC1R protein of redheads can reduce cancer risk for melanoma. This finding offers a potential alternative strategy to prevention by reducing sun exposure, which has been the focus of public health work.
A new study found that groups lie more than individuals when facing mutual financial gain and coordinating actions to achieve a shared goal. This phenomenon occurs even when all members have previously responded honestly, suggesting that group dynamics can shift moral norms and promote dishonest behavior.
Researchers from MSU and Denmark have discovered the mechanism behind green fluorescent protein's sensitivity to light exposure. They found that an isolated chromophore group can emit light outside the protein environment, while the protein enhances its fluorescent properties.
When two people walk one in front of the other while carrying a stretcher-like object, they typically synchronize their gaits. This synchronization is associated with quadrupedal gaits, particularly pacing and trotting. Mechanical coupling changes walking gaits, reducing step length and movement speed.
Expert John Deutch argues that the US can't lower carbon emissions while growing the economy due to the Kaya Identity model. He suggests planned reductions won't be enough to avoid climate change's impact.
Michael N. Hall's discovery of the TOR protein has led to a fundamental change in how cell growth is understood, providing critical information for developing anti-cancer drugs. The Lasker Award recognizes his pioneering research on cell growth regulation and its role in diseases such as cancer and diabetes.
A new study by MIT researchers finds that retracted papers can lead to a 10% drop in citations for remaining work, with high-profile cases experiencing an even larger decline. The study suggests the scientific community reacts to new information through peer review, adjusting its view on the value of certain scholars' work.
Researchers at Lancaster University developed a novel blood test to diagnose Alzheimer's disease with high accuracy. The test distinguishes between Alzheimer's and other neurodegenerative diseases, reducing misdiagnosis cases.
The Annals Science Communication Collection features innovative methods for delivering science to the public, including comics and social media engagement. The collection aims to stimulate interdisciplinary dialogue across entomological disciplines and advance cooperative interaction among diverse groups of entomologists.
A recent study published in Critical Care found that patients admitted to ICUs at weekends are at increased risk of death. The severity of illness and case mix were also different between weekends and weekdays, with more patients having a higher severity of illness on Saturdays and Sundays.
Scientists developed ELM-seq technique to scan DNA sequences and find optimal 'control dials' that regulate gene activity. The study revealed importance of RNA message's first letter and three-dimensional structure in determining gene transcription and translation.
Researchers at Georgia State University are developing cellphone messaging programs to help smokers quit in China and Vietnam. The five-year project aims to adapt culturally effective interventions for cessation, utilizing mobile phones and texting technologies to reach millions of smokers.
Researchers from the University of Innsbruck have established a new method to efficiently characterize large quantum states, enabling the development of large-scale quantum simulators. The new method requires significantly fewer measurements than current gold standard, opening up possibilities for complex quantum simulations.
Researchers engineered antimicrobial agents from a bacteria that targets specific strains, making them harmless. The new treatment could prevent or cure C. difficile infection, which kills thousands worldwide.
Scientists have made a breakthrough in producing ultra-pure green light for high-resolution displays, exceeding 97-99% of the Rec.2020 standard. The new technology uses simple room-temperature processes and inexpensive materials, paving the way for low-cost industrial production.
A study found that a coffee compound called cafestol improves cell function and insulin sensitivity in laboratory mice, potentially spurring the development of new Type 2 diabetes treatments. Daily consumption of cafestol may delay the onset of diabetes in humans, according to researchers.
Two significant solar flares were captured by NASA's Solar Dynamics Observatory on September 6, 2017, with the largest flare peaking at an X9.3 classification. This event had a significant impact on Earth's atmosphere and GPS signals.
A NASA-NOAA satellite captured a unique image of Hurricane Irma's eye over the island of Barbuda in the eastern Caribbean Sea. The storm's powerful thunderstorms and visible tropospheric gravity waves were evident in the image.
A landmark study has identified six gene regions associated with the length of pregnancy and timing of birth, which may lead to new ways to prevent preterm birth and its consequences. The study, involving over 50,000 women, provides a robust understanding of genetic factors contributing to preterm birth.
Researchers developed a new diagnostic system, HiTOP, which predicts 68% of psychological and social functioning issues related to eating disorders. In contrast, the traditional DSM-5 approach predicts only slightly less than 10%. The study used a hierarchical taxonomy of psychopathology, combining symptoms into dimensions and sub-fact...
A new class of compounds, hexahydroquinolines (HHQs), shows promise in preventing Plasmodium falciparum parasite transmission from infected hosts to mosquitoes. HHQs also enhance the effectiveness of existing antimalarial treatments, making it harder for drug-resistant parasites to emerge.
African-American teens who lived through the Great Recession of 2007-2009 may be at higher risk for metabolic syndrome, a cluster of risk factors for heart disease and diabetes. The study found that those in poverty were more likely to develop this condition, highlighting the impact of economic downturns on young people's health.
A Dartmouth study finds that Americans are consistently less supportive of refugee resettlement within their own communities than nationally. Negative media frames also decrease public support for resettlement, but proximity to refugees can mitigate this effect.
A new $2.7 million national study is evaluating ways to improve care planning conversations for frail elderly Canadians, with a focus on person-centred care based on their goals and values.
A recent study explores how infectious hematopoietic necrosis virus (IHNV) spreads among juvenile hatchery-raised fish in the Pacific Northwest. Modeling reveals that returning adults and within-hatchery juvenile-to-juvenile transmission are efficient pathways of IHNV spread.