Researchers have developed a new type of artificial muscle called sheath-run artificial muscles (SRAMs), which use a polymer coating to twist yarns and create powerful contraction. SRAMs outperform human muscle power density, with some yarns producing contractile powers up to 40 times that of human muscle.
The All of Us Research Program aims to advance individualized prevention, treatment and care by enrolling more than 1 million participants from diverse backgrounds. Participants will share health information, participate in clinical trials and contribute to the development of precision medicine.
Kristin Myers, associate professor of mechanical engineering at Columbia University, has been awarded the Presidential Early Career Award (PECASE) for her research on pre-term birth. Her work focuses on determining the biomechanical mechanisms that cause premature cervical remodeling and softening.
A new study found that combining targeted drugs palbociclib and crizotinib is significantly more effective against cancer cells in the laboratory than either drug used alone. The combination approach may broaden the clinical use of palbociclib beyond breast cancer to include other tumour types.
A Carnegie Mellon AI program called Pluribus defeated leading poker professionals in six-player no-limit Texas hold'em, achieving superhuman performance. It developed unique strategies such as frequent donk bets and mixed play, which human pros struggled to execute.
Researchers found adding pembrolizumab to definitive treatment increased overall average PFS by 19.1 months, compared to 6.6 months in historical averages. The study showed the treatment did not lead to new safety issues or decreased patient quality of life.
A new study from the University of East Anglia highlights the need for flexible services supporting young carers transitioning into adulthood. Young carers face challenges such as education and employment, relationships with partners, and maintaining boundaries with parents.
Researchers at MIT developed a vaccine that dramatically enhances antitumor T cell population and allows cells to invade solid tumors. The booster vaccination increased the success rate of CAR-T cell therapy from 10% to 60% in mice, eliminating tumors in 60% of animals.
A new optical sensor developed at Berkeley Lab can provide reliable information on building damage immediately after an earthquake. The Discrete Diode Position Sensor (DDPS) measures interstory drift and will speed up efforts to safely assess, repair, and reoccupy buildings post-quake.
The University of Colorado Cancer Center is enrolling patients in a Phase II clinical trial evaluating the effectiveness of Rucaparib, a PARP inhibitor, as maintenance therapy for endometrial cancer. The trial aims to determine the drug's ability to prevent cancer cell growth and death in patients with metastatic or recurrent disease.
Researchers suggest that viruses hiding in our DNA could be causing some of our deadliest neurological diseases. Studies link HERV reactivation to autoimmune attacks in multiple sclerosis and peripheral demyelinating disease CIDP.
Researchers discovered 43 specific genetic mutations required for leukemia development in children with Down syndrome. The study identified additional genetic changes transforming preleukaemic cells into leukaemic ones.
Astronomers have detected a circumplanetary disk of gas and dust around the young gas giant PDS 70 c, 370 light years from Earth. The discovery provides direct evidence of planet formation and challenges current theories.
A new CRISPR platform, RESCUE, has been developed to target RNA edits that were not previously possible. The system allows for precise modifications of cytosine bases in RNA transcripts, enabling the treatment of devastating diseases affecting the brain.
A study analyzing 216 early benefit assessments in Germany found that half of new drugs lack proven added benefits. The researchers call for mandatory comparisons between new and standard treatments to improve patient care.
New research reveals that epigenetic changes in humans and zebrafish, a tiny fish species, are conserved for over 400 million years. The study found that genes linked to cancer development are silenced early in human embryos, similar to zebrafish, suggesting an ancient mechanism controlling these genes.
Researchers found that restful REM sleep helps brain circuits adapt to stress, while restless REM sleep disrupts this process. This finding has significant implications for treating mental disorders such as PTSD, anxiety, depression, and insomnia.
The oldest completely preserved lily, Cratolirion bognerianum, was found in Brazil with a 40cm length and well-preserved roots, flower, and individual cells. The discovery provides new insights into the diversity of tropical flowering plants 115 million years ago.
A recent study suggests that all-inside arthroscopic repair technique is more effective than non-operative management in treating posterior meniscal root tears in older patients. The study found a significant improvement in clinical outcome scores and lower rates of total knee surgery among those who underwent surgery.
The NIST team has upgraded their compact atomic gyroscope to enable simultaneous measurement of rotation, rotation angle and acceleration with a single source of atoms. The instrument's sensitivities for the magnitude and direction of the rotation measurements are approaching those achieved by other research groups using larger atom in...
Research found that interferon production alters placental development, potentially causing serious complications. Interferon-induced transmembrane proteins block syncytin fusion activity, preventing viral entry but also hindering fetal growth.
New research suggests that climate change could lead to the extinction of loggerhead turtles in Cape Verde due to rising temperatures and changing sex ratios. The study projects that by 2100, more than 90% of nests may incubate at lethal temperatures, killing most hatchlings before they can emerge.
A UCL study finds that a programme of therapy and coping strategies for people caring for family members with dementia successfully improves their mental health. The START programme has been shown to be cost-effective in improving the wellbeing of both carers and those they care for, with patient-related costs being significantly lower.
Researchers discovered two adaptor proteins that act as a 'clutch' to activate the immune response by moving protein condensates towards the center of cells. This discovery sheds light on the control mechanisms for immune response activation and could lead to designing immune cells to combat specific problems.
A study by Clemson researchers found that the Cyp2b gene is associated with obesity and fatty liver disease in male mice, regardless of diet. The discovery suggests that enzymes involved in detoxification may play a role beyond diet and exercise in weight management and metabolic health.
Researchers developed a nanotechnology-based compound that delivers an oral vaccine against hepatitis B to the immune system. The nanostructured silica protects the antigen from digestive acidity, enabling it to trigger an immune response. The study's results show promise for a polyvaccine against six diseases.
A recent study has found a greater diversity of coralline algae species in kelp forests compared to sea urchin barrens, where they thrive despite the loss of sea otters. This discovery suggests that corallines may play a crucial role in maintaining these ecosystems.
A chemist at the University of Texas at Arlington has developed a device that collects and analyzes liquid samples as they travel through space. The open-tubular chromatograph can detect and separate ions using very little power, making it ideal for future Mars missions.
Scientists discovered a suite of microbe-responsive gene families that date back to early land plant evolution in distantly related plants. These genes are often associated with stress-response in flowering plants and provide increased protection against biotic stresses.
A new study reveals a significantly higher prevalence of anal cancer precursors in women living with HIV compared to previous reports. The researchers recommend developing cost-effective detection and management strategies for this population.
Scientists from Tokyo University of Science have discovered exactly how cell-free DNA (cfDNA) is generated, revealing its crucial role in tumor progression. The study's findings suggest that cfDNA can be targeted using DNase1L3, a novel molecule to prevent tumor metastasis and thrombosis.
A study found that women tend to procrastinate due to a genetic predisposition towards high dopamine levels, which affects brain regions involved in decision-making and impulse control. This trait is not observed in men, who show no correlation between the tyrosine hydroxylase gene and action control.
The study used machine learning to analyze data on Hepatitis E epidemics and environmental statistics, identifying areas with high risk of transmission. The researchers hope their map will inform prevention campaigns in high-risk regions, such as northern India.
Researchers at TU Dresden have created a method to free trapped photons in OLEDs, boosting efficiency by up to 76.3%. The technique uses reactive ion etching to generate controllable nanostructures that can be tailored for optimal outcoupling.
Scientists at Princeton University have created an electronic array that simulates particle interactions in a hyperbolic plane, a geometric surface where space curves away from itself at every point. This innovation could enable new investigations in quantum mechanics and aid the design of new materials.
Researchers have identified an enzyme called LPCAT1 that plays a key role in tumor growth by changing the phospholipid composition of cancer cells' plasma membranes. When genetically depleted in mice, malignancies shrank dramatically, suggesting LPCAT1 as a potential new drug target for various cancer types.
Researchers measured Jupiter's electric current system and found that alternating currents play a crucial role in generating the aurora. The study used data from NASA's Juno spacecraft to derive electric currents and found a total of approximately 50 million amperes, significantly lower than expected values.
Dr. Carlo C. DiClemente, an internationally renowned scientist, will deliver the 11th Annual Jack Mendelson Honorary Lecture at the NIH. His presentation focuses on the necessity of relapse and recycling in recovery from alcohol use disorder using the Transtheoretical Model of behavior change.
A research team has developed a more effective method to estimate polluting emissions from nitrogen fertilizers, utilizing Bayesian statistics. This method offers more realistic predictions and is useful for choosing sustainable strategies in agriculture.
A computational model simulates how pain is transmitted from a nerve to the spinal cord's dorsal horn, reproducing experimental results on pain sensitivity. The model suggests a potential mechanism for neuropathic pain's flipped sensitivity rhythm: a change from inhibition to excitation in synaptic connections between nerve cells.
Researchers at the University of Cincinnati found that adolescent girls who reach puberty earlier are more likely to develop migraine headaches. The study, which followed 761 girls over 10 years, suggests that early exposure to estrogen may be a trigger for migraine in some girls.
A new study finds that fossil fuels' ratios of extracted energy to produced energy are lower than previously thought, especially at the finished fuel stage. The study warns that declining EROI may lead to a 'net energy cliff', where available energy declines rapidly.
Hybrid algorithms employ classical and quantum capabilities to address limitations of near-term quantum hardware. The approach can tackle optimization problems like graph partitioning and clustering, enabling researchers to use existing quantum hardware for practical applications.
Researchers observed a supermassive black hole in galaxy NGC 3147 with an unusual thin disk of gas swirling around it, contrary to predictions. The team used Hubble Space Telescope's STIS instrument to study the disk, revealing unique features that can only be explained by Einstein's theories of relativity.
A recent study suggests that arthroscopy is a more accurate method than magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for staging chondral injuries in the knee. The study found that arthroscopy was correct in 47% of cases, while MRI had a specificity and sensitivity of 73% and 42%, respectively.
A corn gene identified from a 118-year-old experiment at the University of Illinois can boost yields by an average of 4.6 bushels per acre, requiring no additional fertilizer inputs. The gene, NAC7, controls senescence and stays green longer, allowing plants to continue photosynthesizing and producing grain.
A study of over 150 youth tackle football players found minimal changes in neurocognitive outcomes after two seasons, with no correlation between head impacts and cognitive function. Other factors like ADHD and younger age were more predictive of worsening scores on pre- and post-season tests.
Research studies using liquid biopsy and ddPCR technology found that mutant BRAF ctDNA levels can predict treatment efficacy in advanced melanoma patients, while ctDNA may not reliably detect brain metastases. Meanwhile, chimeric cell-free DNA tracked tumor recurrence in hepatocellular carcinoma patients.
A multistakeholder study proposes six policy options for governing heritable genome editing, including proactive regulation and broad public engagement. Meanwhile, gynecological surgery reform is urged due to declining OB-GYN skills and lack of transparency, putting patient safety at risk.
Injured axons trigger Schwann cells to build specialized actin spheres, breaking down and removing damaged fragments to start regeneration. Oligodendrocytes can also generate actin structures with induced VEGFR1 expression, promoting central nervous system healing.
A survey study found that facial cosmetic surgery was associated with changes in perceived attractiveness, masculinity, and certain personality traits in men. The study used photographs of 24 men before and after surgery to examine these effects.
Researchers discovered that southern right whale mothers and their calves shelter in noisy surf, staying close and whispering softly less than once per dive to avoid attracting unwanted attention. The pounding waves drowned out the soft calls, providing acoustic cover from killer whales.
A team at Technical University of Munich has developed modified T cells using CRISPR-Cas9, which can recognize specific antigens without mixed receptors. These near-natural cells have the same structure but are capable of being genetically modified, making them suitable for cancer therapy and potential solutions to immunotherapy problems.
A study by Georgetown University Medical Center found that facial cosmetic surgery in men increases perceptions of attractiveness, likeability, social skills, and trustworthiness. The researchers also discovered that chin augmentation was the only procedure without a significant impact on perceived masculinity or attractiveness.
The University of Maryland-led project aims to upgrade lunar retroreflectors with next-generation versions, improving accuracy and coverage. This upgrade will enhance scientific research, test fundamental physics, and improve navigation on the lunar surface.
A new species of lizard, Indrasaurus wangi, was discovered in the stomach of Microraptor zhaoianus, revealing a unique diet and expanding Cretaceous diversity. The finding supports the interpretation that Microraptor was an opportunistic predator feeding on various prey.
A team of researchers has created a novel technology that combines multi-spectral imaging and supercomputing to study brain pathology in concussions. This allows for a more comprehensive understanding of the injury's effects on brain cells, enabling the development of new treatment regimens.
Researchers have discovered that coral skeletons record subtle changes in pH levels, allowing scientists to study past ocean acidification and its effects on corals. The study provides insight into the impact of climate change on coral reefs and their ecosystem.
Michigan State University has received a $38 million USAID grant to implement a new Feed the Future Innovation Lab for Food Security Policy Research, Capacity and Influence. The lab will partner with local agricultural policy research organizations to strengthen their ability to carry out rigorous research on food security policy.
A team of scientists has discovered a new species of fairy wrasse in the mesophotic coral reefs off the coast of Tanzania, dubbed the 'Vibranium Fairy Wrasse' due to its purple scales. The discovery sheds light on the unique ecosystems of the twilight zone, which are just as vulnerable to human threats as shallow reefs.