Matthew Devereaux, a UT human development specialist, has been honored with the National Excellence in Extension Award for his visionary leadership and innovative programming that positively develops youth in afterschool settings. His research on social-emotional learning programs has shown significant gains in student grades and stand...
A new study by NIH scientists found that research topic preference accounts for over 20% of the persistent funding gap between black and white researchers. Black applicants are more likely to propose topics with lower success rates, such as health disparities research and patient-focused interventions.
Biologists have discovered that coral reef fish take advantage of parental care to raise their own young. Genetic tests revealed that many parents were caring for mixed broods of young from different species. The study found evidence of both adoption and brood parasitism, with unrelated young fish benefiting from parental protection.
Researchers at the University of Edinburgh have identified three new sub-types of cells involved in liver scarring, accelerating the disease progression. The discovery is expected to accelerate the development of new treatments for liver diseases, which affect one in five people in the UK.
Scientists have found evidence of prehistoric humans storing and consuming animal bone marrow at Qesem Cave, dating back to around 400,000 years ago. The discovery suggests that early Paleolithic people had a sophisticated understanding of food preservation, allowing them to store bone marrow for up to nine weeks before feasting on it.
A new study led by a University of Miami neurologist found that sleep disturbances among Hispanics may increase their risk of cognitive impairment and Alzheimer's disease. Insomnia and prolonged sleep duration were linked to declines in memory, executive function, and processing speed, which can precede the onset of dementia.
A multi-national study reveals that children of normal weight who later become severely obese are often girls or from black populations, highlighting the need for tailored monitoring and prevention efforts. The study provides a predictive tool for doctors to focus intervention on high-risk individuals.
A new cost-effective technology, subsurface water retention technology (SWRT), has the potential to significantly improve harvests in sub-Saharan Africa's poor fields. SWRT increases water retention and organic material accumulation, making soils more fertile, resulting in higher maize yields and carbon sequestration.
Researchers created a comprehensive atlas of human liver cell changes during fetal development, revealing how stem cells support high oxygen demand. The study improves our understanding of normal development and will aid efforts to tackle diseases like leukemia and immune disorders.
Researchers identified gamma delta T cells in breast tissue, which are associated with remission and higher survival rates. The study suggests that these cells may be used to develop new treatments for breast cancer.
A study by Haider Warraich and colleagues found that 31% of cardiovascular disease deaths occur at home, exceeding hospital fatalities. The research analyzed over 12 million deaths from 2003 to 2017, revealing disparities in place of death among underserved racial and ethnic groups.
Researchers at Duke University Medical Center discovered a mechanism for cartilage repair similar to salamanders' limb regeneration. Cartilage age depends on joint location, with ankles being younger, knees middle-aged, and hips older. MicroRNAs regulate this process and may be developed into arthritis medicines.
A research team from Bochum and Marseille has developed a self-defence mechanism in biocatalysts that shields them from oxygen, extending their service life up to 22,000 years. The new design uses tiny molecular spheres to create an extremely thin protective film that maintains efficiency.
Researchers in New Zealand have developed a comprehensive map of white clover heritage and genetic landscape, providing a valuable resource for breeders. The 'pedigree map' reveals the history of the species, including its origins and genetic makeup, enabling more informed breeding decisions.
A new study analyzed data from 2010 to 2015 and found that body mass index of Wisconsin children rose in the summer and decreased in the fall. The study suggests that school-based obesity prevention initiatives may benefit from additional weight management support delivered at the start of the school year.
A study of over 10,000 Chinese older adults found that living in neighborhoods with higher levels of social participation was associated with lower rates of depression. This increased social connection led to more physical activity and contact with neighbors and own children.
A new study from National University of Singapore (NUS) researchers has demonstrated a potential method for treating advanced liver cancers like hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Targeting the JAK/STAT signalling pathway, they found that a class of small molecule drugs can effectively reduce cancer progression in preclinical models, with...
Researchers have identified a new disease mechanism and potential molecular drug target to protect premature newborns from developing post-hemorrhagic hydrocephalus. Treating mice with compounds blocking the LPA receptor prevented excess fluid accumulation in the brain.
Researchers at WVU are using artificial intelligence to develop more efficient and accurate diagnoses of cardiovascular diseases, potentially leading to cost savings and improved patient outcomes. The four-year project aims to address research challenges associated with AI in healthcare, including data analysis efficiency and privacy m...
Scientists at The Wistar Institute have identified a novel mechanism by which astrocytes promote cancer cell growth and metastasis in the brain. The pro-metastatic effect is mediated through the activation of the PPAR-gamma pathway, providing a new lead for PPAR-gamma antagonists in cancer therapy.
Researchers have developed a novel way to identify previously unrecognized antibiotic-resistance genes in bacteria using machine learning and game theory. The approach determined the presence of antibiotic-resistant genes in three different types of bacteria with high accuracy.
A new UBC psychology study found that biological siblings of people with gambling disorder exhibit markers of increased impulsivity and risk-taking. The research suggests people with gambling disorder may have pre-existing genetic vulnerabilities to the illness.
M. Stanley Whittingham's work on lithium-ion batteries has revolutionized energy storage and utilization, enabling widespread use of portable electronics. His research has been instrumental in advancing the development of these batteries, paving the way for significant technological advancements.
Researchers at Georgetown University Medical Center developed a virtual review method that reduces the time needed to assess a cancer patient's tumor profile and suitability for clinical trials from 14 to 4 days. The method also increased the number of cases that could be assessed, with over 2,000 clinical trials evaluated.
Researchers from the University of Cambridge have identified a promising replacement for toxic greenhouse gases used in refrigerators and air conditioners. The device, based on layers of oxygen and metallic elements PST, displays the largest electrocaloric effects yet observed in a body large enough for cooling applications.
Researchers propose a cascade of chemical reactions to produce RNA's four genetic building blocks, creating a pivotal step in chemical evolution. The process requires simple precursor molecules and can occur under homogeneous environmental conditions.
A new genus and species of predatory dinosaur Siamraptor suwati has been identified in the Early Cretaceous geologic formation of Thailand. The fossil discovery reveals that this group of dinosaurs had spread to three continents by the Early Cretaceous, filling a notable gap in the fossil record.
The Harvard Pilgrim Health Care Institute will lead the FDA Sentinel System, a national program monitoring drug safety using electronic health data. The institute's 10-year experience in developing and operating the system will be expanded with the addition of a new Sentinel Innovation Center.
Deep3DFly uses computer science and neuroscience to model fly movements and poses, enabling robots to climb challenging terrain. The system can automatically predict and correct errors in calculations, opening up new possibilities for robotics and medicine.
Researchers found that older adults experience physical weakness due to impairments in brain and nerve function, rather than muscle changes. The study suggests that addressing the nervous system's role could improve quality of life for older adults with age-related strength loss.
A new study from Boston Medical Center demonstrates that hematologists can identify patients' specific needs through universal screening, connecting them to local resources. Two-thirds of patients screened positive for at least one unmet socioeconomic need, most commonly food insecurity and difficulty paying utilities.
Researchers at WashU Medicine discovered that certain strains of gut microbes can break down harmful compounds in processed foods and produce beneficial nutrients. These microbes could potentially make unhealthy snacks healthier when added to their composition.
Researchers found non-antibacterial nanoparticles can cause rapid bacterial resistance in Shewanella oneidensis MR-1. The study suggests that nanoparticles could have significant effects beyond bacteria, affecting ecosystems and human health.
A study published in Nature Sustainability found that most conservation initiatives follow a slow-fast-slow model, where initial adoption is slow but grows quickly as more adopters connect with potential adopters. This understanding can help policymakers design and promote effective conservation programs.
Researchers created a test using tumor organoids to predict how patients with advanced colorectal cancer respond to chemotherapy treatment. The test correctly classified 80% of patients treated with irinotecan, suggesting it could help identify those who won't benefit from toxic chemotherapies.
Researchers identified a new, highly virulent form of Listeria monocytogenes that causes severe diseases in animals and humans. The strain was discovered in China and combines the virulence characteristics of various highly pathogenic Listeria species into a single isolate.
Researchers at the University of Warwick found that children who were bullied by siblings and peers had a higher risk of depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation, and self-harm in adulthood. Sibling bullying was particularly associated with increased odds of developing clinical depression and considering suicide.
A recent study analyzed FEMA-funded voluntary property buyouts, finding they tend to target poorer neighborhoods in wealthier counties. The researchers emphasize the need for increased transparency in reporting to fully evaluate program efficacy.
A new UCL study has found that a period of rest following a traumatic event can reduce the development of involuntary 'memory intrusions' in post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The study suggests that increasing memory consolidation, which involves storing and contextualizing memories, may help prevent these disturbances.
A new blood test has been developed to accelerate brain cancer diagnosis, distinguishing patients with brain cancer from healthy individuals correctly 87% of the time. The technology uses infrared light and artificial intelligence to identify the signs of cancer in a blood sample.
A study reveals that fungal types and accumulation rates mediate tree-neighborhood interactions, driving species coexistence in subtropical forests. The findings suggest a key role for pathogenic fungi and mutualists in shaping diversity patterns.
Research found a single circuit in mice that activates during stress, controlled by testosterone, driving different behaviors in males and females. In female brains, the circuit is active under stress but quietens with testosterone introduction, making them resistant to depression-like behaviors.
The study observed changes in A/B compartments of mouse embryonic stem cells, correlating with gene expression and replication timing changes. Chromosome conformation changes preceded gene expression changes, suggesting a physical mechanism for transcriptional regulation.
Researchers at the University of Münster have created an interface that couples light sources with nanophotonic networks, enabling the integration of quantum optical circuits on chips. The interface uses photonic crystals to enhance a specific wavelength range and can be replicated using established nanofabrication processes.
Researchers at Brown University have developed a new production method for the high-performance polymer Zylon using nanoparticle catalysts, which can produce degradation-resistant materials. The new approach reduces energy consumption and eliminates a corrosive acid that causes degradation.
A new project aims to investigate the genetic influences on behaviors, producing polygenic risk scores for individualized interventions. However, experts express concerns about the risks of misusing this research to justify social inequality.
A laboratory study found that fibrosis, a natural stiffening of the ovaries, occurs with age and may be linked to ovarian cancer. Metformin, a diabetes drug, was shown to halt this process in some cases.
Threshold-dependent gene drives offer a potential solution to controlling the spread of gene drives in wild populations, increasing control and reducing the risk of unchecked spread. The authors discuss this concept in detail, highlighting its potential benefits and challenges.
A Rutgers study of 32 ethnically diverse mothers and their children found that stress reduction and weight management strategies can improve sleep habits. The study highlights the need for healthcare practitioners to assess and educate young mothers on healthy sleep practices.
A novel cancer-driving mutation discovered in the human genome's non-coding regions can drive multiple types of cancer, including brain, liver and blood cancers. The mutation could be used to develop novel treatments for patients with these difficult-to-treat diseases.
A study published in JAMA Psychiatry highlights the need for individualised approaches to defining mental illness. The researchers found that compulsive behaviour maps onto cognitive flexibility better than expert-assigned diagnoses.
The University of Illinois has been awarded a $3 million NSF NRT grant to establish a PhD level certificate program combining materials and data science. The program aims to train the next generation of graduate students knowledgeable in both areas, with partnerships from various industries and national laboratories.
A new study published in Human Brain Mapping found that the cerebellum is not engaged during reading in both typical readers and children with dyslexia. The research suggests that difficulties in phonological processing, a key feature of dyslexia, are more closely related to brain regions in the left cortex.
A study published in the Journal of Family Communication reveals that mothers' negative experiences with others can lead to anxiety, depression, and isolation. The research highlights the importance of common ground and shared interests in building positive relationships among mothers.
A new study uses tape strips to analyze skin lesions and non-lesional skin in infants and young children with early-onset eczema, identifying biomarkers for immune and barrier abnormalities. The technique provides a non-invasive alternative to skin biopsies, which are often difficult to perform in children.
A study of over 50,000 pregnancies reveals that late third trimester ultrasounds can identify previously undetected fetal abnormalities in 0.5% of cases. This benefit highlights the importance of these scans for detecting abnormalities that were missed in earlier first and/or second trimester exams.
The research team aims to design algorithms that optimally distribute computation between robots and the cloud for guaranteed safe robotic operation. 5G systems offer higher data rates but pose challenges due to limited bandwidth and high latency, requiring new control algorithms that can exploit high-rate links when available.
A phase IIa trial and a subsequent extension trial show dupilumab's long-term safety and efficacy in treating moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis in adolescents. The medication works by blocking specific substances that cause eczema symptoms, providing substantial clinical benefit with an acceptable safety profile.
Tennessee has been selected for a $454,000 Dairy Business Innovation Initiative grant from the USDA to help the state's dairy industry diversify product markets and improve farm income. The project aims to assist Tennessee dairy farmers in developing higher-value uses for dairy products through processing and marketing specialty products.
Scientists at Aalto University and the University of Vienna create hybrid material combining graphene and single-walled carbon nanotubes, achieving higher conductivity than either component alone. The van der Waals interaction between graphene and nanotubes enhances charge-tunneling, leading to improved electrical properties.