The NASA Twins Study found changes in gene expression and metabolite alterations that support the potential health effects of long-duration spaceflight on astronauts. The study also suggests that human health can be mostly sustained over a year-long space mission, with targeted countermeasures needed for future Mars missions.
A team of UT Southwestern researchers has created a groundbreaking two-hit model to combat HFpEF, a type of heart failure with no effective treatments. By combining high-fat diets with blood pressure-raising drugs, they replicated the human condition and provided an accurate biological picture that can advance treatment development.
A recent study found that contamination of privacy curtains with multidrug-resistant organisms (MDROs) is a common problem in healthcare facilities globally. The researchers discovered that patient colonisation with MRSA and VRE was associated with curtain contamination, highlighting the potential for MDRO transmission to patients.
Scientists at UC Berkeley discovered that mountain formation in the tropics triggers global cooling, resulting in ice caps. The team found that volcanic arc-continent collisions in the tropics expose rocks with high CO2-absorbing capacity, cooling the planet.
Scientists have discovered the native structure of AMPA receptors in rodent models, which may lead to new insights into neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's. The research could provide novel approaches for therapies by understanding how these receptors differ in people with devastating diseases.
Scientists identified a molecular driver of glioblastoma, a highly aggressive and treatment-resistant brain cancer, by analyzing cell-by-cell genetic data. Researchers found that reprogramming primitive oligodendrocyte progenitors into stem-like cells plays a key role in glioma initiation and progression.
A comprehensive profile of B cells in rheumatoid arthritis reveals their involvement in the disease's progression. Researchers identified two specific differences in B cells that contribute to the condition, including the inclusion of interleukin 15 receptor subunit alpha and high levels of amphiregulin.
Researchers at the University of Oregon have successfully created artificial atoms in white graphene, which can generate single photons and potentially lead to breakthroughs in all-optical quantum computing. The discovery enables the scalable fabrication of artificial atoms onto a microchip, working in air and at room temperature.
A DNA barcoding study has identified a group of cryptic species among the Warszewitsch's frog, found in Costa Rica and Panama. This finding highlights the need for modern DNA tools to study rapidly declining animal groups like amphibians.
A study of over 4,000 young adults in the UK found that nearly 20% had nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, and one in 40 had advanced fibrosis. The condition is linked to obesity, diabetes, and hyperlipidaemia, highlighting the need for greater public health awareness.
A new study found that HIV-infected individuals have a longer lifespan of white blood cells called neutrophils, which may contribute to intestinal inflammation. Lactobacillus bacteria, commonly used in probiotics, could be an effective therapeutic strategy to reduce neutrophil-driven inflammation.
A new study reveals that consumers are actively choosing to visit certain places to confront their feelings, grief or worries in a safe space. Therapeutic Servicescapes like Lourdes' marketplace offer emotional expression and vulnerability acceptance, leading to improved well-being.
Researchers Inanc Senocak and Cheng-Nian Xiao uncover fluid instabilities in the Prandtl model for katabatic slope flows, a complex phenomenon crucial for reliable weather predictions. Their findings suggest that dynamic stability cannot be determined by a single dimensionless parameter alone.
Scientists found that NIPSNAP proteins function as 'eat me' signals on damaged mitochondria, recruiting cellular machinery for mitophagy. In a zebrafish model, animals lacking NIPSNAP1 protein died within five days due to impaired mitochondrial clearance, highlighting its importance in maintaining dopaminergic neurons.
Researchers found diphtheria, tetanus, and whooping cough vaccination levels in Nigeria, DRC, Ethiopia, Mozambique, and Cambodia below the 80% threshold. Targeted campaigns can improve immunization service delivery, especially in areas with poor routine immunization coverage.
Researchers develop new microscope, SCATTIRSTORM, to study cellulase and plant cell wall dynamics for more efficient biofuel production. The microscope enables high temporal resolution and spatial resolution, allowing for detailed understanding of enzyme activity.
A large-scale study of mouse mutants identified 38 new genes involved in hearing loss, revealing molecular pathways and regulatory processes. The findings provide a rich source of therapeutic targets for restoring hearing and suggest therapies may need to be directed at common molecular pathways.
The NASA Twins Study found no significant health differences for astronaut Scott Kelly after spending nearly a year in orbit. However, changes were observed in his DNA methylation and gene expression, particularly related to the immune system, which may persist after his return to Earth.
Katia Vega, a UC Davis design professor, has received the Johnson & Johnson WiSTEM2D Scholars Award for her innovative work in integrating technology into wearable cosmetics. The $150,000 grant provides three years of mentorship and aims to fuel development of female STEM leaders.
A majority of reusable tourniquets inspected contained microbes that could compromise patient safety and care quality. The most prevalent contaminant microorganism was coagulase-negative staphylococci, found on 441 of the analysed tourniquets.
A new study led by Murray Cox has found that modern Papuans carry hundreds of gene variants from two deeply divergent Denisovan lineages, separated for 350,000 years. The research reveals a complex history of interbreeding between modern humans and archaic hominins in Island Southeast Asia.
A new report by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention shows a significant increase in autism prevalence in New Jersey, with the rate rising 43 percent from 2010 to 2014. The state's autism rate is now one in 35 among 4-year-olds, significantly higher than the national average of 1.7 percent.
Researchers developed a biophotonic technique that uses ultraviolet and red light irradiation to eliminate bacteria and viruses from organs before transplantation. The method significantly reduced viral load in eight patients and completely eliminated the virus in two others.
Research scientists have uncovered hidden diversity within a type of frog found only in the Seychelles, showing that each island has its own distinct lineage. The study reveals four species of sooglossid frogs are threatened by climate change and disease, including a lethal fungus known as chytrid.
Researchers developed a new method to alleviate chronic inflammatory disease by inducing mitophagy and removing damaged mitochondria. The treatment with choline kinase inhibitors reduced NLRP3 inflammasome activation and prevented inflammation in mice with genetic diseases such as Muckle-Well Syndrome.
The study identifies four major problems with the United Nation's Aichi Target 11, including perverse outcomes and ineffective conservation efforts. The authors argue that outcome-based targets for protected areas are needed to achieve biodiversity goals.
A large-scale screen of mouse mutants revealed 38 new genes involved in hearing loss, including those related to metabolic pathways and regulatory processes. These findings provide a rich source of therapeutic targets for the restoration of hearing.
A recent study discovered that the nascent polypeptide-associated complex (NAC) plays a key role in preventing protein aggregation associated with neurodegenerative diseases. NAC suppresses PolyQ aggregation and enhances organismal fitness, according to tests using animal models such as C. elegans.
A financial model developed by Stevens Institute of Technology assistant professor Hamed Ghoddusi explores the effects of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act on homebuying. The SALT deduction cap has a predictable impact on property tax collections, particularly in high-income states.
Research reveals that chronic diseases significantly decrease mobility in older adults without them realizing it, affecting physical activity levels. Exercise therapies tailored to the type of disease can improve physical functioning and independent living possibilities.
A study by researchers at the University of York found that costly external NHS hospital inspections do not lead to improvements in quality of care. Rates of falls and pressure ulcers improved before inspections, but slowed afterwards. The authors suggest a less resource-intensive approach to reduce costs and burden on staff.
A large-scale genome-wide association study has identified 14 new variants associated with the development of kidney stones, including four linked to obesity and high blood uric acid levels. The findings may be useful for predicting individuals' risk of developing kidney stones and identifying new targets for prevention and treatment.
Researchers found that Ebola survivors exhibit memory immune responses, including specific T cells against the virus, persisting over 2 years after infection. These findings could help develop more effective vaccines by boosting key immune cells needed for long-lasting protective immunity.
The American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics has announced the winners of its 2019 Technical Excellence in Aerospace Awards. The awards recognize pioneering work in various fields of aerospace engineering, including aerodynamics, aircraft design, fluid dynamics, and more.
New research from Tepper School of Business finds that forcing employees to interact with unfamiliar colleagues in open work spaces encourages exploration, leading to improved financial performance and new product ideas.
The Microbicide Trials Network is conducting a study to assess the acceptability, tolerability, and adherence of three rectal delivery methods: placebo inserts, suppositories, and douches. The study aims to understand individual preferences for HIV prevention products.
Researchers at USC and UCLA have developed a new method to prevent damage to the jaw, a side effect of cancer treatment. The approach uses a different BP compound that can be used locally in the mouth to push the drug from the jawbone while leaving the useful drug undisturbed.
Researchers at Boston Children's Hospital and MIT have developed nanobodies that can target the tumor micro-environment, allowing for more effective treatment of solid tumors. The nanobodies were tested in mouse models of melanoma and colon cancer, showing promising results in slowing tumor growth and improving survival rates.
Researchers found evidence of gene sharing among human-associated bacteria, with 30% higher rates than natural occurrence. Gene transfer occurred between closely related organisms and across tissue boundaries, facilitating innovation at the microbe level.
Researchers found that serum AKR1B10 levels were significantly associated with advanced liver fibrosis stages, particularly stage 4. The protein's origin was confirmed via immunohistochemical staining, and its combination with WFA(+)-M2BP showed high sensitivity and specificity for predicting NASH fibrosis and life-threatening events.
Researchers created salt blends using calcium and potassium chloride to reduce sodium chloride content without compromising flavor. The optimal blend achieved a balance of 96.4% sodium chloride and 3.6% replacement salts, increasing the possibility of gradual reductions in salt consumption.
In a two-year greenhouse experiment, plants pollinated by bumblebees without herbivory evolved more attractive flowers, while those with herbivory had higher concentrations of defensive toxic metabolites. Plants developed a tendency to spontaneously self-pollinate when damaged by caterpillars.
Researchers found that Hirschsprung disease shares common genetic mechanisms with complex disorders like schizophrenia and autism. The study identified key genes, cellular mechanisms, and molecular targets for personalized treatment.
Scientists from the University of East Anglia have discovered a unique group of oil-eating bacteria in the Mariana Trench, which is located approximately 11,000 meters below sea level. The bacteria are capable of consuming hydrocarbons similar to those found in crude oil and natural gas.
Researchers developed a method to distinguish tumor margins from healthy tissues using bright spot analysis in confocal microscopy. The technique showed promise in differentiating glioblastoma tumors from surrounding brain tissue and has potential applications for tumors without 5-ALA-derived red fluorescence.
Researchers from University of Kansas will analyze genomic data from ancient and contemporary Aleutian Islanders to understand their evolutionary and cultural history. The study aims to uncover the genetic influence of Russian colonization and how the unique environment prompted biological adaptations.
The €50 million MOBILISE-D project aims to develop a system using small sensors to monitor mobility and assess health. It will enable personalized healthcare, predictive diagnosis, and improved treatment for conditions like COPD, Parkinson's disease, and multiple sclerosis.
Physicists simulate infinite quantum particles to understand macroscopic scale behavior, reconciling quantum mechanics and classical mechanics. This approach allows for the calculation of physical entities like the second virial coefficient, enabling robust predictions.
Research reveals an unusual three-year spike in late-season surface melting on the Larsen C ice shelf, caused by foehn winds. This could lead to a denser and less stable ice shelf, potentially putting it at risk of similar fractures as nearby Larsen A and B shelves.
Researchers at Technical University of Munich discovered that plant cells recognize bacteria through small fatty acid molecules, rather than complex molecular compounds. This finding could lead to breeding or genetically engineering plants with improved immune responses and increased resistance to pathogens.
Researchers found ketamine restores functional connectivity and ensemble activity of neurons and eliminates depression-related behaviors. Dendritic spine formation is crucial for maintaining remission, but its slow process may indicate that it's a consequence of ketamine-induced rescue of prefrontal cortex circuit activity.
Researchers have discovered a novel biosynthesis pathway for aryl polyene pigments in bacteria, produced via a unique complex of proteins. These pigments exhibit anti-oxidative properties similar to carotenoids but are formed differently.
The NASA Twins Study found that Scott Kelly's telomeres in white blood cells got longer while in space, contradicting initial expectations. This could mean a higher risk for accelerated aging and age-related diseases, including cardiovascular disease and cancer.
Research from the NASA Twins Study found that extended spaceflight alters the ratio of two major categories of bacteria in the gut microbiome, but not its diversity. The study's findings could help protect astronauts' and space tourists' microbiomes during long bouts of space travel.
A study of 400,000 camera-trap records from 36 mammal species on three continents found that tropical mammals respond to changing local temperatures and other species nearby. Temperatures did not increase drastically overall during the study period, but micro habitat use changed over time due to temperature fluctuations.
A new CRISPR-Cas3 system allows for efficient genome editing in human cells, erasing long stretches of DNA from targeted sites. This technology holds promise for treating viral diseases such as herpes simplex and hepatitis B, which are major public health threats.
An interdisciplinary research group at KIT is developing an agile production system that autonomously adapts to changing product specifications using multi-modal sensors and artificial intelligence. The system aims to improve remanufacturing processes, enabling the reuse of electric motors from the automotive industry.
A new algorithm developed by Stanford researchers can accurately identify individuals at risk of familial hypercholesterolemia (FH), a cholesterol-raising genetic disease that increases the risk of early and fatal heart problems. The algorithm, trained on data from over 200 FH patients, correctly flagged 88% of cases in testing runs.
Scientists from Michigan Technological University have successfully created 2D gold quantum dots that can be customized at the atomic level on boron nitride nanotubes. This breakthrough enables the creation of tunable semiconducting materials with potential applications in future electronics and quantum computing.
Two large real-world studies confirm the efficacy of glecaprevir/pibrentasvir in a broad range of individuals with HCV infection, including those with comorbidities. The treatment showed significant improvements in physical and mental well-being, with high sustained virological response rates.