Researchers have found associations between esophageal cancer and lead-rich soils, lung cancer and copper-rich terrains, brain tumors and arsenic-rich areas. The study's findings suggest that the geochemical composition of soil could influence cancer distribution patterns in Spain.
Researchers from Boston University, MIT, UC Berkeley, and CU Boulder develop a method to fabricate silicon chips that can communicate with light, speeding up data transfer and reducing energy consumption. The technology is compatible with current chip manufacturing processes and could revolutionize computing and mobile devices.
Researchers detected periodic movement in tree branches and leaves, revealing a previously unknown water transport mechanism. This discovery suggests that trees are pumping water and may have shorter or longer sleep periods than previously thought.
Researchers found a gene, MEI-218, that controls the rate of recombination in two species of fruit flies. The discovery sheds light on how crossover rates have evolved to balance benefits and risks, with implications for understanding genetic diversity and evolutionary adaptation.
A new Phase III clinical trial found that belimumab, a monoclonal antibody therapy, significantly reduces SLE disease activity and incidence of severe flares. The treatment's subcutaneous formulation offers an alternative to intravenous administration, making it more accessible to patients.
Researchers at ICFO have achieved the ultimate level of light confinement using graphene, creating ultra-small optical switches and sensors. By sending infra-red light through devices, they observed how plasmons propagated in between metal and graphene, demonstrating control of light guided in channels smaller than one nanometer.
A large Candida auris outbreak in a UK ICU was linked to multi-use thermometers, which were found to harbor the fungus on their surfaces. Researchers controlled for other factors and found that use of these thermometers remained a strong risk factor for infection.
A team of scientists, led by Nobel laureate Eric Betzig, have developed a new microscope that captures real-time, incredibly detailed images and 3D videos of biology. The microscope uses adaptive optics and lattice light-sheet to study cellular and sub-cellular life on whole living organisms.
The European Organisation for the Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC) and ESTRO join forces to launch E2-RADIatE, a pan-European infrastructure for efficient collaboration in radiation oncology. The initiative aims to generate robust data on cancer treatment and develop new therapeutic strategies.
Researchers found that fat cells from obese patients with type 2 diabetes were epigenetically reprogrammed after exposure to palmitate and TNF-alpha. Healthy precursor fat cells also exhibited reprogramming after 24 hours of exposure, suggesting a potential link between diet and metabolic health.
Researchers found that West Nile virus reemerged in Greece in 2017 after a two-year hiatus, causing 45 cases of infection, primarily in southern regions. The study highlights the importance of mosquito management and public education to prevent transmission, particularly among vulnerable populations.
A team of researchers has successfully combined carefully structured light with metal nanostructures to alter the properties of generated light at the nanometer scale. This breakthrough could lead to advancements in photonics, such as frequency conversion of light and optical processing.
A new study reveals that European rivers have a much higher density of barriers than previously thought, with up to one barrier per kilometer. A newly developed smartphone app, Barrier Tracker, is now available to help document and update this information.
Researchers at Umeå University have discovered that adenovirus binds to polysialic acid, a carbohydrate receptor overexpressed on certain types of cancer cells. This finding opens new possibilities for using adenovirus as a treatment for corresponding types of cancer.
A three-year study of 1,078 hypertensive patients with heart disease found that faster walkers had a significantly lower risk of hospitalization. The study also showed that fast walkers spent shorter lengths of time in the hospital compared to slow walkers.
Research presented at ECCMID found that unvaccinated patients accounted for most measles cases, with children under two years old being at higher risk of dying from the disease. The study also highlighted the impact of measles on young populations, with one in 1,000 cases resulting in death.
Researchers at Eindhoven University of Technology have developed methods to increase fiber-to-the-home (FTTH) capacity by doubling or tripling it, making more efficient use of existing infrastructure. These techniques improve signal quality based on user distance from the central data station.
The Guidelines on Business and KBAs provide steps for businesses to actively safeguard biodiversity and avoid contributing to its loss. Businesses are recommended to adopt 15 guidelines to better manage their impacts on places deemed critical for species and ecosystems worldwide.
Researchers found specific small molecules in blood plasma accurately predict whether someone has sustained a mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) or not. The discovery could lead to reliable diagnostics for concussions.
Researchers found that targeting E. coli's toxin-antitoxin system, specifically the mazEF gene, can inhibit bacterial growth. The proposed strategy has the potential to be a selective inhibitor and can be adapted to work on multiple bacteria types.
Researchers have developed primary pancreatic organoid tumor models using magnetic nanoparticle assembly, enabling high-throughput phenotypic drug screening. These 3D structures allow for the testing of drug-like molecules against patient-derived cancer cells, providing insights into potential patient outcomes.
Scientists discover small microbes removing nitrogen from seawater in microenvironments with low oxygen levels, expanding the nitrogen cycle beyond previously thought regions. This finding changes our understanding of ocean responses to climate change.
A recent study by Michigan Technological University researchers found that even a single session of meditation can reduce anxiety levels and lower heart rate variability in adults with mild to moderate anxiety. The study, led by John Durocher, used mindfulness meditation and found significant benefits in cardiovascular health.
Researchers found that C4 plant species grew more in elevated CO2 conditions than C3 plants, contradicting initial expectations. This unexpected shift has significant implications for grassland conservation and restoration planning.
A study by the universities of Zurich and Geneva found significant differences in end-of-life decisions across Switzerland's three linguistic regions. In all regions, deaths were preceded by one or more end-of-life decisions, with a common legislative framework governing life-sustaining treatment and assisted suicide. The involvement o...
The International Osteoporosis Foundation's new interactive map reveals wide global variation in calcium intake, with low levels prevalent in Asia and Latin America. The map highlights the need for public health strategies to increase calcium intake throughout the lifespan.
A new research project aims to support small-scale fisherman livelihoods while achieving national and international conservation goals. The project builds on the successful Lyme Bay project, which showed that conservation gains can be achieved while benefiting local fishermen.
Research reveals that HIV-1 viruses transmitted from mother to child during delivery are more resistant to maternal antibodies than non-transmitted variants. A new vaccine aims to boost maternal antibody attack, reducing transmission risk during delivery.
A study published in Journal of Affective Disorders found that cannabis can significantly reduce short-term levels of depression, anxiety, and stress. Optimal strains and quantities include one puff high in CBD and low in THC for depression, two puffs of any type for anxiety, and 10 or more puffs high in CBD and high in THC for stress.
Researchers at the University of Virginia Health System used a homemade microscope to reveal the structure of a cancer-causing virus's 'tether' that anchors it to our DNA. This discovery could lead to cures for viral infections like HPV and Epstein-Barr by disrupting the tether.
A new study by Felisa A. Smith et al. found a substantial bias in mammal extinction during human dispersal periods, with species that went extinct being two to three times bigger than surviving mammals. This trend is evident globally and reflects hominin-mammal interactions.
Researchers are investigating various cannabis-related health issues, such as its impact on pregnant women, young people, and those with chronic pain. The studies aim to expand knowledge on the most pressing questions related to the impact of cannabis on health.
The US military is developing a machine-learning tool to help primary care doctors better detect suicide risk and respond more effectively, with an 80-90% accuracy rate. The tool will be integrated into the Navy's electronic health records and provide real-time alerts to doctors.
The Chat Analysis Triage Tool (CATT) uses algorithms to examine word usage and conversation patterns by suspects, identifying language-based differences that can indicate a risk assessment. The tool has the potential to prevent child sexual assault by allowing law enforcement to prioritize cases and respond quickly.
A Mayo Clinic survey found that nearly a third of patients did not use any opioids prescribed after surgery, with only 8% disposing of their remaining medications. The study suggests that patient factors such as age and pain score can influence opioid use, highlighting the need for tailored prescribing guidelines.
A new study reveals that at least 114 plant species from around the world are capable of prolonged dormancy as adult plants, enabling them to survive through difficult times. This behaviour allows them to overcome short-term disadvantages and extend their lives.
Using UT Southwestern's largest lung cancer cell library, researchers identified 170 chemicals that could be developed into treatments for non-small cell lung cancer. The team also found biomarkers to predict patient responses and therapeutic targets, paving the way for personalized cancer care.
A whole-hospital simulation model was used to investigate hospital responsiveness to mass casualty incidents, revealing superlative effects of expanding capacities. Diversion of patients to alternative facilities and modified triage were also found to be crucial in such events.
A study by University of Arizona researcher Caleb Warren found that people perceive those who smile as more genuine and likable. In contrast, being inexpressive can make someone appear cold rather than cool. The researchers tested this theory using advertisements featuring various endorsers, including James Dean.
A new study by University of Kent researchers suggests that young men in Southern Italy who prioritize masculine honour are more likely to engage with criminal organisation members. The research highlights the importance of addressing these values in education programmes aimed at preventing young people's involvement with such groups.
Researchers at UPV/EHU's Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology have identified the changes in proteins altered by the UBE3A enzyme, which leads to Angelman syndrome. The study explains how a single gene can affect brain function, providing new insights into the disease's complexity.
A 15-year dataset of academic journals found that only 45% of researchers are women, with some disciplines having significantly fewer than 45%. The study identified areas that need new initiatives and reforms to reach gender parity.
A study published in Natural Hazards and Earth System Sciences found that drowning caused 80% of Harvey deaths, with most fatalities occurring outside the 100-year floodplain. The researchers suggest improving flood maps and communication to reduce risk during future floods.
Gene editing of bone marrow stem cells has shown promise against HIV in non-human primates. The technique successfully reduced the size of dormant 'viral reservoirs' that pose a risk of reactivation, giving rise to white blood cells resistant to SHIV.
A new computer programme assesses whole brain deterioration and predicts cognitive function after stroke up to ten times more accurately than current methods. The 'brain health index' can quantify visible brain injury from cerebral small vessel disease and brain atrophy, giving early warning of risk of future cognitive decline.
The American College of Rheumatology has developed a formal curriculum for nurse practitioners and physician assistants to meet growing demands in rheumatic disease. The novel curriculum outline is expected to positively affect rheumatology workforce challenges.
Engineers at the University of Washington have developed a new HD video streaming method that uses backscatter technology to process video frames instead of transmitting them. This reduces power consumption by 1,000 to 10,000 times compared to current streaming technology.
Researchers discovered genetic defects typical in ANKL, a shared genetic background with NK- and T-cell malignancies, and novel gene amplifications in the JAK-STAT signaling pathway. Potential drug candidates were found, including JAK inhibitors that could improve treatment for various NK-cell malignancies
Researchers at the University of Connecticut have created a biodegradable composite made from spider silk fibers, which can be used to repair broken load-bearing bones without complications. The new composite shows high strength and flexibility characteristics, making it suitable for treating large leg bones in adults and seniors.
A Penn study reveals that nuclear-import receptors can reverse the formation of disease-causing protein clumps in brain disorders like frontotemporal dementia and ALS. By increasing NIR expression, researchers were able to dissolve clumps, return functional proteins to the nucleus and extend lifespan in fruitfly models.
A human protein, teneurin, plays a key role in embryonic development and nervous system wiring by binding to other proteins on cell surfaces. Its unique structure, resembling a bacterial toxin, allows it to perform multiple functions through alternative splicing.
A new study from the University of Illinois provides video evidence of parental infanticide in dickcissel birds, challenging existing assumptions about this phenomenon. The researchers observed a female parent removing her own chick from the nest, raising questions about the ecological and evolutionary implications.
Kristin O'Donovan's NSF-funded project examines how local governments learn from disaster experiences and the limits of policy change, shedding light on vulnerability differences between communities.
Researchers analyzed 293 localized prostate cancer tumors and found that those with multiple types of cancer cells were the most aggressive. The study's findings can help determine the best approach for each individual patient, including sparing patients from unnecessary treatment.
A recent study reveals that women are underrepresented in STEMM fields, with some disciplines showing a significant gender gap. The research suggests that it may take decades or even centuries to close the gap in certain fields, highlighting the need for practical measures such as reforming academic publishing and peer review.
Two randomized controlled studies show a 65% improvement in treatment group and a 27% improvement in patient-rated measures compared to sham stimulation. The therapy has few side effects, with most participants reporting improvement after receiving treatment.
Researchers at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center have developed a new method to study the brain's role in obesity by recreating brain neurons from obese patients' cells. The study found significant differences between super-obese and normal-weight neurons, suggesting genetic mutations may contribute to weight gain.
A new ant species from Borneo has been discovered, exhibiting a unique explosive defense mechanism that releases toxic liquid when threatened. The discovery sheds light on the biology of 'exploding ants,' which were previously poorly understood due to limited evidence.
A simple handgrip strength test is a good indicator of short- and long-term survival in early-stage non-small cell lung cancer patients. Patients with weak handgrips were 1.5 times more likely to die within five years, compared to those with strong handgrips.
EPFL scientists have joined the Human Cell Atlas initiative, a global project mapping every type of cell in the human body. The team developed an automated single-cell analysis pipeline, enabling non-expert labs to engage in high-level genomic research.