A new study by Université de Montréal researchers found that boys who start smoking marijuana at the start of their teens are 68% more likely to have a drug abuse problem by age 28, compared to those who start between 15 and 17. The study also found that frequent cannabis use increases the risk of addiction.
A Penn-led trial found that adalimumab, marketed as Humira, did not improve aortic vascular inflammation in psoriasis patients, but reduced markers of systemic inflammation and mild impairment in HDL function. The study suggests the drug may have cardiovascular benefits despite this finding.
A Loyola Medicine study found that new ultrasound guidelines can reliably identify children who need a biopsy for thyroid cancer. The American College of Radiology's system grades nodules on a scale, with higher scores indicating more suspicious cancer.
A Japanese research group has developed a CRISPR/Cas9 system to target and block HIV-1 production in infected cells. By targeting two regulatory genes tat and rev, they were able to significantly lower the expression and functions of both genes.
A study found that genes beneficial in youth but detrimental in old age may contribute to the rise of chronic diseases in modern societies. The review suggests that natural selection may be changing course, but more research is needed to fully understand its impact on human health.
A recent case report documents how a patient's use of biotin supplements caused clinically misleading test results, prompting multiple consultations and unnecessary testing. The study highlights the need for caution when using biotin supplements, as they can interfere with certain lab tests.
A new study by University of Bristol PhD student Zoe Muller found that giraffe group sizes are not influenced by predation risk, contradicting a long-held assumption. Giraffe groups were smaller when adult females had calves, highlighting the complexity of their behavior and ecology.
A new study published in the Journal of the American College of Surgeons found a 61.7 percent reduction in colorectal surgical site infections in Hawaii's 15-hospital collaborative using AHRQ's Safety Program for Surgery. The program also improved hospital safety culture, with 10 out of 12 categories showing significant improvements.
Researchers have discovered that various stages of the malaria parasite's life cycle are connected to epigenetic features and chromatin structure. The study provides insights into the connection between genome organization, epigenetics, and stage-specific gene expression in the malaria parasite.
Scientists have discovered a way to exploit defects in nanoscale diamonds to enhance the sensitivity of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) systems. The technique could lead to low-cost alternatives to multimillion-dollar medical imaging and drug-discovery devices.
A new blood test called IsoPSA has been shown to be more accurate in predicting overall risk of prostate cancer than standard PSA tests. The study found that nearly 40 percent of biopsies could have been avoided with the use of IsoPSA, potentially lowering overtreatment rates and reducing unnecessary procedures.
Researchers found that mutations create a hole in the voltage sensor of muscle cells, allowing sodium ions to leak and trigger muscle weakness. A new class of compounds may block this pore and prevent or treat hypokalemic periodic paralysis.
Researchers aim to develop a virtual biopsy tool that can guide patient care without the need for invasive skin cuts. The technology uses multiphoton microscopy and machine learning techniques to provide high-quality images of melanin, enabling doctors to diagnose melanoma more accurately.
USC researchers have identified a remedy to prevent lung metastasis in triple-negative breast cancer, which is the deadliest form of breast cancer. A novel solution uses a nanoparticle to deliver a medication directly to tumors, reducing toxic side effects.
A UCLA-led team developed a new 3D printer to create complex artificial tissues from multiple materials. The printer uses stereolithography and a custom-built microfluidic chip, enabling the creation of biocompatible structures with different properties.
Researchers at Ruhr-Universität Bochum have developed a label-free method for rapid cancer diagnosis using infrared imaging, which can perform analysis in just a few minutes. The technique, combined with bioinformatical image analysis, shows promising results with 97% accuracy compared to traditional histopathological analyses.
A Northwestern University study found that over 50% of sexually active gay and bisexual teen boys aged 14-17 used adult hookup apps like Grindr and Scruff. These teens also used the apps to connect with friends and find new partners, highlighting the importance of sex education and HIV prevention tailored to their needs.
The Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite (TESS) has completed a lunar flyby, providing a gravity assist to help it reach its final working orbit. As part of camera commissioning, TESS snapped a two-second test exposure revealing over 200,000 stars in the southern constellation Centaurus.
Researchers analyze the historical use of symbols like the dove and rainbow in artistic depictions of peace. From ancient theatre to modern media motifs, these depictions highlight the power of love displacing violence in conveying a message of peace.
Using MR spectroscopy imaging, researchers found that a novel IDH1 inhibitor reduced levels of the oncometabolite 2HG in patients with IDH1-mutated gliomas. The study showed a potential metabolic reprogramming of the tumor in response to treatment.
Scientists at University of California San Diego School of Medicine developed a method to control human heart cells growing in a dish on command by shining light and varying its intensity. The graphene surface converts light into electricity, providing a more realistic environment than standard laboratory dishes.
Rothamsted Research will conduct a field trial of genome-edited (GE) Camelina, a genetically modified crop that accumulates omega-3 fatty acids, alongside a traditional GM version. The trials aim to investigate the efficiency of genetic engineering in developing plants with desired traits, such as improved nutrition and sustainability.
The UTA industrial engineering team partnered with Foxconn to develop data analytics and smart manufacturing solutions for improving efficiency in large-scale cell phone manufacturing processes. The partnership resulted in the development of automated systems to detect fake parts, reduce human inspection time, and increase output.
Researchers at Lobachevsky University have proposed a two-fold approach to overcome the computational complexity of multicriteria problems. By re-using search information and using effective global search algorithms, they aim to find multiple compromise options that cannot be improved simultaneously with respect to all partial criteria.
A team of researchers has successfully created a microscopic drum that can simultaneously vibrate and stand still, a phenomenon known as quantum superposition. This breakthrough is expected to enable the development of ultra-precise sensors and new types of transducers.
A new clinical trial is underway to test two human monoclonal antibodies designed to treat MERS-CoV infection. The study will enroll 48 healthy adults and administer escalating doses of the experimental antibodies.
Researchers from University of Cincinnati studied methane concentrations in groundwater and found no relationship with proximity to natural gas wells. In most cases, methane in drinking water was attributed to underground coal or biological production.
Researchers at Michigan State University have developed a gene therapy that restored vision in dogs with progressive retinal atrophy, a condition similar to human retinitis pigmentosa. The treatment has shown a 100% success rate and is now being advanced for human use with a $8.2 million grant.
Researchers have identified SETD2 as a critical effector protein in MLL-fusion proteins, driving oncogenesis in AML. This finding paves the way for a more effective therapy using a combination of compounds.
A new map for a birthplace of stars provides unprecedented detail of the structure of the Orion A molecular cloud. The maps will help researchers calibrate star formation models for extragalactic studies and better understand how fast and efficiently stars form in the region.
A new model reveals that brain cooling can reduce pressure inside the head, relieving swelling and further injury. Cooling newborn babies' scalps to 10C could help their core brain temperature fall, aiding recovery from birth complications.
Researchers discovered a genetic mutation in troponin T that disrupts the heart's ability to increase pumping force when needed. This limits the heart's capacity to pump additional blood around the body, potentially leading to severe consequences for individuals with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy.
A French nanorobotics team has successfully assembled the world's smallest house using a new microassembly system. The μRobotex nanofactory allows for precise control over nanostructures and optical fibers, enabling advanced sensing technologies and applications.
Researchers discovered that supercharged polypeptide fluids can form ordered phases in response to physical forces, resembling fingerprint patterns. The persisted order was detected using polarized optical microscopy, opening possibilities for biometric fingerprint detection.
A study by UTHealth found that simple imaging on a non-contrast CT scan can be sufficient to determine thrombectomy treatment in stroke patients, achieving identical clinical outcomes as advanced imaging. This basic technique may broaden access to life-saving surgery for more patients, especially in remote areas.
Researchers at the University of Washington School of Medicine developed a robotic system to rapidly produce human mini-organs derived from stem cells, expanding basic research and drug discovery capabilities. The new technology enables mass production of organoids, which resemble rudimentary organs and behave similarly.
Scientists have identified a new signaling pathway essential for mammary gland development, involving the interaction between stem cells and macrophages. The discovery provides insight into breast cancer genesis and spread, potentially paving the way for early detection and targeted therapies.
Researchers have discovered a non-canonical pathway that triggers the opening or closing of ion channels through a zipper-like mechanism. This finding offers insights into how these channels regulate vital processes such as heartbeat and pain transmission.
A team led by the University of Utah has observed lightning-triggered gamma-rays in more detail than ever before, detecting 10 bursts of downward terrestrial gamma ray flashes between 2014 and 2016. The study provides a major advance in understanding the production mechanism of these rare and high-energy radiation events.
A new algorithm developed by UCLA researchers more accurately predicts which people will survive heart failure and for how long. The algorithm provides significantly better predictions than current methods, allowing doctors to make personalized assessments and potentially reduce healthcare costs.
Scientists at Oak Ridge National Laboratory made the first observations of supersonically propagating phasons through a vibrating crystal lattice. This discovery may revolutionize heat management in future electronics devices by providing a shortcut to send energy through materials.
A new study revealed that ancient elephant relatives, such as Gomphotherium connexum and G. steinheimense, primarily ate soft foliage and grasses 17 million years ago. The team found phytoliths stuck to their teeth and analyzed wear patterns on fossil tooth surfaces to confirm these results.
Researchers at Princeton University have created detailed maps of neurons using a quarter-million video game players, discovering six new neuron types. The Eyewire Museum showcases the intricate beauty of neural circuits, providing a valuable resource for neuroscientists worldwide.
A new study reveals that acute kidney injury (AKI) is associated with a higher risk of cardiovascular events, particularly heart failure, in patients even after discharge from the hospital. Researchers found that AKI was linked to an 18% increased risk of composite outcomes including heart failure and atherosclerotic events.
New research suggests that rheumatoid arthritis drugs taken during pregnancy are unlikely to cause a large increase in serious infections in children. The study found no marked excess risk of serious infections among RA offspring exposed to TNFi drugs compared to unexposed control children and offspring from the general population.
Researchers discovered a genetic signature in Nasonia wasps that suppresses Wolbachia bacteria transmission to eggs, giving the wasp an evolutionary benefit. This finding provides insight into how animals may evolve to control their transmitted bacteria, highlighting unique defense strategies across species.
Researchers at UCR discover how plants package and deliver small RNAs to fight plant pathogens. The study found that plants transfer sRNAs into fungi, inhibiting their ability to cause disease, through a process called cross-kingdom RNA interference.
A shocking study reveals that one third of the world's protected areas, covering twice the size of Alaska, are under intense human pressure. The authors warn that this will undermine biodiversity loss goals if widespread degradation continues.
Four young researchers from abroad receive EU Individual Fellowships to initiate new research projects in physics and palaeogenomics. They will investigate topics such as spin transport, Higgs boson interactions, population dynamics, and quantum physics.
A study found that pregnant women with rheumatoid arthritis using certain RA drugs did not have a marked excess risk of serious side effects compared to unexposed children. The research showed that TNF inhibitors may not compromise the child's ability to fight infections.
A study found six million square kilometers of protected land, equivalent to two-thirds China's size, are unlikely to conserve endangered biodiversity. Human activities like road infrastructure and agriculture are damaging these areas.
Research in mice shows that chronic intestinal worm infection reduces the number of white blood cells in lymph nodes near the BCG vaccine injection site, hindering the immune response to tuberculosis. De-worming treatments can restore immune function after infection.
Researchers at the University of Stirling discovered regular cycles in 36% of samples from 851 tropical trees, challenging the principle that tropical ecosystems are aseasonal. The study found flowers are more likely to occur on a regular annual cycle than fruits and leaves.
A recent study found that introducing an inferior option for hand sanitizing boosted workers' use of regular hand sanitizer and increased sanitary conditions. Employees used more sanitizer and had cleaner hands after being offered a less convenient option.
A team of researchers at the Institute for Basic Science developed a new method to measure laser pulse shapes in ambient air. The patented technique, TIPTOE, uses tunnel ionization and achieves temporal characterization of laser pulses without X-ray pulses or vacuum conditions.
A new University of Pittsburgh analysis discovered that hookah smoking accounted for over half of the tobacco smoke volume consumed by young adult smokers in the US. In contrast, those who smoked tobacco only using a hookah had lower but still substantial toxicant exposures compared to those who used both hookahs and cigarettes.
The Earth BioGenome Project aims to sequence genomes of every eukaryotic species on Earth, filling the huge knowledge gap in biodiversity research. With a cost estimate of approximately US$4.7 billion, the project will lay the scientific foundation for a new bioeconomy and bring innovative solutions to global problems.
PharmaMar will present data on Yondelis and lurbinectedin, showcasing clinical advances in soft tissue sarcoma, breast cancer, and small-cell lung cancer. The company's molecules have demonstrated efficacy and safety in various studies, including a phase III trial for small-cell lung cancer.
A team of La Trobe University scientists has discovered a peptide found in the flowers of the ornamental tobacco plant Nicotiana alata that can target and destroy Candida albicans cells, making it a promising lead for developing a new class of antibiotics.
Researchers at FAU have discovered that marine animals have been migrating for millions of years in response to changes in temperature. Coral, molluscs, and sponges have followed their preferred cold and warm zones for half a billion years, with isotherms shifting towards the poles or equator as temperatures rise or fall.