Researchers from the University of Edinburgh have discovered a novel form of air bubble that enhances the drag on dandelion seeds, allowing them to travel great distances without power consumption. This breakthrough could inspire the development of small-scale drones for remote sensing or air pollution monitoring.
Researchers found a correlation between AMY1 gene copy numbers and faster starch digestion rates. Individuals with more copies of the gene displayed higher blood glucose responses to starchy foods.
Researchers from Yale, Harvard, and Northwestern University found that many theorized heavy particles may not exist, contradicting the Standard Model. The study's results suggest a smaller electron EDM, challenging alternative theories like supersymmetry and grand unified theories.
An international team of astronomers has discovered a massive galaxy proto-supercluster, Hyperion, in the early universe, just two billion years after the Big Bang. The supercluster has a complex structure with at least seven high-density regions connected by filaments of galaxies.
A recent study published in Astrobiology found that microbes and organic compounds can survive for a year in space, suggesting interplanetary migration is possible. The Tanpopo mission exposed Deinococcus aetherius to space conditions, measuring key factors like temperature and radiation.
Researchers at the University of Arizona are testing green light therapy for controlling HIV-related neuropathic pain, showing a 60% reduction in patient pain. The therapy may also have potential benefits for other types of pain and provide a safer alternative to opioids.
A study in South Africa found that certain strains of Mycobacterium tuberculosis are resistant to the two primary antibiotics prescribed for TB. The resistance is not detected by standard DNA tests, leading to unsuccessful treatments and increased mortality.
A University of Cincinnati researcher is working on a new light therapy that uses ultraviolet light to activate light-sensitive drugs, selectively targeting cancer cells while sparing healthy stem cells. This approach has the potential to be more effective and safer than current treatments.
A new conceptual framework proposes examining exercise effects on brain connectivity, structure, and molecular mechanisms in multiple sclerosis. This systematic approach may lead to new strategies for rehabilitative care and treatment.
Researchers at UNH found a high infestation of winter ticks on 179 radio-marked moose calves, causing emaciation and severe metabolic imbalance leading to 125 calf deaths over three years. Most adult moose survived but were severely compromised.
A study published in PLOS ONE found that species diversity on the Arctic floor follows a similar pattern to temperate waters, with biomass decreasing as depth increases. The research sheds light on the effects of climate change on vulnerable Arctic waters.
Young adults exposed to cannabis during adolescence show altered brain structure and gene expression related to psychosis risk. The study suggests that adolescent cannabis use can induce long-term changes in brain cells and gene networks, potentially increasing psychiatric vulnerability.
A recent GWAS analysis of latent autoimmune diabetes in adults (LADA) has uncovered new connections to type 1 and type 2 diabetes, suggesting a hybrid nature of the disorder. The study found that genetic signals linked to LADA were mainly shared with established variants known to be linked to T1D.
A new study finds that US tornado frequency has increased in the Midwest and Southeast over the past four decades, closing the gap with traditional Tornado Alley. The trend is significant for understanding future tornado exposure and damage.
Researchers have developed a new file format for functional genomics data that enables data sharing while protecting personal information of research participants. The format reduces leakage and promotes collaboration in the field.
The 11th World Stroke Congress brought together leading international experts to discuss various aspects of stroke care. A Canadian study found that while access to stroke rehabilitation improved, provincial and regional differences persist, with bed capacity hindering prompt access. Another study analyzed gender differences in accessi...
Researchers at Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center found that papaverine inhibits mitochondrial respiration and sensitizes model tumors to radiation. The study suggests that modifying the papaverine molecule could lead to a new class of radiosensitizing drugs with fewer side effects.
Researchers at UNIGE have developed a laser that can create a temporary hole in clouds to transmit data, overcoming the limitations of radio frequency signals. This technology has the potential to enable global implementation by 2025.
A team of scientists from Russia and abroad observed Comet 29P using the SOAR Telescope, discovering that its dust environment is primarily composed of magnesium-rich silicate particles. This finding provides an important constraint on the comet's chemical composition and sheds light on the origins of this Centaur object.
Researchers at the University of Cincinnati recommend universal screening for all adults due to the rise in hepatitis C cases among younger patients. The new strategy is cost-effective and aims to prevent long-term health problems such as liver cancer and cirrhosis.
A new study by MIT researchers shows that combining antibiotic drugs with probiotics can eradicate two strains of drug-resistant bacteria that infect wounds. The probiotic bacteria were encapsulated in a protective shell of alginate to prevent them from being killed by the antibiotics.
Researchers at University of Michigan discovered that a mineral-supplemented diet has a greater impact on bone mass and strength than exercise. The mice retained bone strength gains even after the exercise stopped, highlighting the long-term benefits of nutrition over exercise.
A recent analysis of published studies found that preoperative weight loss interventions do not significantly reduce post-surgical risks in obese patients. Lifestyle changes leading to modest weight loss have been shown to be ineffective in reducing morbidity and mortality during and after surgery.
Researchers at UC Riverside successfully used CRISPR-Cas9 to disrupt serotonin receptor Aa5HT2B in mosquitoes, reducing body size, lifespan, egg development, and fat accumulation. This breakthrough offers a novel approach for controlling mosquito populations and diseases they carry.
A University of Michigan study found that social media can help reduce the risk of depression in older adults with pain. The researchers used data from a nationally representative survey and discovered that social media use preserves cognitive function and psychological well-being in this population.
A US study found that higher blood levels of omega 3 fatty acids from seafood are associated with a lower risk of unhealthy ageing, defined as survival free of major chronic diseases and without mental or physical dysfunction. Participants who consumed more seafood-derived EPA had a 24% lower risk of unhealthy ageing.
A study led by OHSU has published the largest cancer dataset of its kind, involving hundreds of patient samples and revealing new insights into acute myeloid leukemia (AML). The dataset may help researchers and physicians solve specific questions about AML treatment options.
Researchers found that queens and males are greatly affected by low-dose neonicotinoid pesticide exposure, threatening the stability and survival of wild bee populations. The study also reveals that exposure alters genes regulating biological functions such as locomotion, reproduction, immunity, and learning and memory.
A new engineered enzyme, NicA2-J1, eliminates nicotine addiction in rats by breaking down nicotine in the bloodstream before it reaches the brain. This approach reduces withdrawal symptoms and prevents relapse, offering a promising smoking cessation treatment.
A unique switching valve in the sperm-storage organ of Neotrogla insects allows females to receive two capsules of semen at once, leading to fierce competition over mating and eventual evolution of a female penis. The discovery, published in eLife, has potential applications in biomimetics and nanotechnology.
Researchers discovered that midazolam, a commonly used anesthetic, alters cardiac circadian biology and increases susceptibility to myocardial ischemia. Targeting the circadian rhythm protein Period 2 (PER2) with nobiletin, a flavonoid found in citrus peels, provides significant cardioprotection against MI in a mouse model.
Researchers discovered that young male zebra finches activate connections between their social brain and song cortex when near a singing tutor, indicating the ideal teacher. The study found that this connection is essential for juvenile birds to copy and learn songs from suitable tutors.
Zinc oxide nanoparticles exhibit antibacterial, anticancer, and antioxidant effects, but also induce toxic effects on various organs and systems. Their concentration-dependent toxicity highlights the importance of determining efficacy and safety.
A study by the University of Leeds reveals a 20% decrease in particulate pollution concentrations across China between 2015 and 2017. Concentrations of fine particulates fell by 7.2% per year, while those of sulphur dioxide decreased by 10.3%. However, ozone concentrations increased by 5% over the same period.
NASA's Aqua satellite captured infrared data on the remnants of Tropical Storm Tara, which had weakened to maximum sustained winds near 35 mph. The storm produced scattered thunderstorms with cloud top temperatures as cold as -63 degrees Fahrenheit, posing a threat of life-threatening flash floods and mudslides in Mexico.
Infants who were breastfed for at least six months had a smaller number of resistant bacteria in their gut than babies who were breastfed for a shorter period. Antibiotic treatment of mothers during delivery increased the amount of antibiotic-resistant bacteria in the infant gut.
Scientists are working on technologies to collect water from the air, which could help alleviate global water shortages. Researchers have developed various approaches, including fog-harvesting systems and liquid desiccants, that can reduce costs and scale up production.
A large study published in The BMJ found that pre-eclampsia is associated with an increased risk of later dementia, particularly vascular dementia. Women with a history of pre-eclampsia were more than three times as likely to develop vascular dementia compared to those without the condition.
Researchers developed an OCT-based imaging tool to visualize how sound-induced vibrations travel through the ear. The technology provides new insight into hearing and could inform diagnosis and treatment of hearing problems. The instrument measures tiny vibrations within the ear, allowing for precise measurements at over 10,000 points.
Scientists have imaged the Ebola virus protein structure at near-atomic resolution, revealing a complex with individual RNA nucleotides and amino-acid side chains. This clarity may help find targets for antiviral drugs, one step closer to understanding how the whole virus works.
A recent study published in Environmental Research Letters found that large-scale offshore wind farms can decrease hurricane precipitation onshore locations, while increasing it in offshore areas. The research used Hurricane Harvey as an example, showing a 30% reduction in precipitation inland due to the presence of wind farms.
A simple test taken within a week of a stroke can predict long-term outcomes, including impaired thinking skills and daily task completion. The study found that those with thinking problems had a seven times higher mortality rate and 42% had problems completing daily activities three years after the stroke.
Targeting immune checkpoints in microglia may reduce neuroinflammation in neurodegenerative diseases. Dysregulation of these checkpoints is linked to diseases such as Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and ALS.
Experts warn that cardboard baby boxes are being promoted without supporting evidence, posing risks to infant safety. The boxes may not meet safety regulations, have potential design flaws, and are not suitable for all age groups.
Researchers found significant gaps in understanding microplastic effects, with concentrations detected being orders of magnitude lower than those affecting organisms in lab tests. The study highlights a need for more environmentally realistic studies and better monitoring of specific environmental regions.
Researchers found that up to 12% of bacteria on average were alive and able to reproduce in dark rooms. In contrast, only 6.8% of bacteria exposed to daylight and 6.1% of those exposed to UV light remained viable. This suggests that daylight can reduce the risk of dust-borne infections by killing dust-dwelling bacteria.
A study of Truncorotalia fossils found rapid shell shape changes 5.1 million years ago, potentially observing quantum evolution at a species level. This challenges previous theories of gradual evolution in planktonic forams.
Researchers found that stereotactic radiation therapy doubles progression-free survival and increases overall survival by a median of 13 months in patients with limited metastatic cancer. The treatment also improved survival rates, but with increased side effects.
Researchers from St. Jude Children's Research Hospital present comprehensive genomic profiling data from the Genomes for Kids study, showcasing 79% of patients having somatic findings that guide clinical care. The study also highlights the role of germline variants in tumor formation and hereditary cancer predisposition syndromes.
Researchers at Ural Federal University have won grants to develop methods for destroying composite materials and creating efficient electrode materials for ammonia synthesis. They will also explore creating plant protection products against phyto-pathogens with a potential impact on the global energy sector.
Elective induction of labor in uncomplicated singleton pregnancies from 39 weeks' gestation is associated with lower complication rates. Women should be aware that induction can lead to a more prolonged and painful process.
A Stanford-developed VR experience, Becoming Homeless, helped expand research on how immersive technology affects people's level of empathy. The study found that participants who underwent the VR experience developed longer-lasting compassion toward the homeless compared to those who explored other media versions.
A new study identifies Th17 cells as drivers of periodontitis, a common disorder affecting nearly half of American adults over age 30. The research found that an unhealthy oral microbiome triggers the accumulation of these immune cells, leading to inflammation and bone loss.
A study published in PLOS ONE found that virtual reality systems can aid perspective-taking and foster empathy, leading to more altruistic behaviors. Participants who used VR reported higher levels of empathy and were more likely to sign petitions supporting homeless populations.
Researchers have released a massive dataset detailing molecular makeup of tumor cells from over 500 AML patients, enabling rapid advancement in clinical trials. The dataset includes how individual patients' cells responded to various drugs, providing insights into targeted therapies for specific subsets of AML cells.
Consuming caffeine from coffee, but not tea or soda, was associated with a decreased risk of rosacea. This observational study found that four servings or more of caffeinated coffee per day were linked to the lowest risk of rosacea.
Researchers from Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology have sped up electron movement in organic semiconductor films by two to three orders of magnitude. By introducing polystyrene, they found enhanced hole mobility, a critical factor for developing more efficient solar devices.
A recent outbreak of multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB) in South Africa remains undetected for five years due to the failure of WHO-endorsed diagnostic tests. Researchers discovered two strains with a specific DNA mutation associated with resistance to Rifampicin, which were not detected by commercial tests.
A study from Australia found a rapid decline in new HIV infections after the implementation of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for men who have sex with men. The study, which followed 3,700 participants, showed a significant reduction in HIV diagnoses by 25% within one year.
A UCR psychologist argues that low expectations set by ADL and IADL questionnaires may contribute to cognitive decline in healthy older adults. Wu advocates expanding the range of functional independence to include new skills and adaptability, potentially leading to greater long-term independence.