Researchers have identified five common genetic variants that increase the risk of autism, providing a new insight into the biological processes involved. The study also found genetic differences between clinical subgroups of autism and a significant overlap with other mental disorders.
Scientists have discovered a new way to monitor carbon dioxide storage plumes underground using coda waves, which reveal the location of gases in the ground. This method could enable more frequent and cost-effective tracking of these plumes, allowing for better estimation of total gas reserves.
A study by researchers from Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin has identified a molecule, c-Maf, that regulates the balance between the immune system and gut microbiota. This finding may lead to new therapies for chronic inflammatory bowel disease.
A recent study has investigated the regulation of genes by noncoding DNA, which controls gene expression and determines cellular function. The research found that cell-specific enhancers have relatively small effects on target genes, highlighting the importance of tight regulation under normal conditions.
A study of 160 breast cancer survivors found that most reported four times more positive than negative thoughts about changes they experienced due to their illness. Patients who participated in a psychological intervention program reported even more positive life changes.
A Florida State University-led team of researchers has created a model to measure the differences between warrior and guardian policing approaches. The study found that officers can adopt both mentalities and that those with a guardian mentality value communication, while those with a warrior mentality prioritize physical control.
Researchers at Florida State University have found a critical missing step in proteasome assembly, which could be targeted to treat certain types of cancers. By manipulating this step, scientists may be able to regulate proteasome assembly and mitigate cancer-causing effects.
A global modelling study estimates nearly 400,000 new cases of childhood cancer annually, while current records count only around 200,000. Undiagnosed cases could account for more than half of the total in Africa, South Central Asia and the Pacific Islands.
Researchers found that social media hashtags can detect and predict fashion trends by analyzing relationships between users, sentiment, and ideas. By searching for relevant tweets during Paris Fashion Week, they established associations between keywords such as hand embroidery and haute couture.
A new study reveals neural mechanisms responsible for local search in C. elegans, showing that smell and touch responses function independently. The researchers also found that altering brain activity can trigger extended search periods, potentially related to short-term memory.
Researchers discovered that inhibiting the cancer-causing protein EZH2 can correct increased fibrosis and abnormal blood vessel function in scleroderma patients. This breakthrough suggests that existing EZH2 inhibitors could be repurposed to treat scleroderma, offering new hope for this currently incurable disease.
Scientists discovered three new accessions of Siberian Miscanthus that outperform the industry favorite in photosynthetic efficiency at low temperatures. One cultivar showed a 100% increase in photosynthesis, making it a promising candidate for breeding more cold-tolerant hybrids.
Researchers developed a machine learning tool to classify children with arthritis into seven distinct groups based on joint patterns. This allowed them to predict which children will go into remission faster or develop more severe disease, enabling doctors to tailor treatment and spare patients unnecessary medication side effects.
Researchers found that treating severely malnourished children with a lactose-free, reduced-carbohydrate milk formula did not improve clinical outcomes. The study suggested that alternative formulas may still present a load of carbohydrates above what can be absorbed by the intestines.
Researcher Maggie Pitts explores how people savor different types of communication, identifying seven categories including aesthetic, presence, nonverbal, recognition, relational, extraordinary, and implicitly shared communication. She finds that savoring can boost mood and quality of life.
Researchers used a mouse model to isolate stem cells in rotator cuff muscles and calf muscles, finding that rotator cuff stem cells develop into fewer muscle cells and more fat cells. DNA-level studies revealed genes involved in fat metabolism were activated in rotator cuff muscle stem cells.
Tropical Cyclone Pola has shown strong storm characteristics, indicating a high risk of heavy rainfall. The storm is expected to strengthen and reach peak strength as a tropical storm on Feb. 27.
A new study published in Environmental Research Letters finds that the volume of the Gulf of Mexico's dead zone is more responsive to nitrogen load reductions than its area. This suggests that measuring hypoxic volume could be a more effective way to assess the impacts of nutrient pollution on fisheries.
Research suggests a reciprocal relationship between obesity and self-control, with reduced prefrontal cortex activity leading to overeating and weight gain. Exercise and mindfulness can improve prefrontal cortex activity, promoting better dietary choices.
Research from Oregon State University found that microplastic capsules encasing insecticides increased toxicity in water fleas, highlighting the need for reevaluation of encapsulation's environmental impact.
Researchers found that reducing carbon emissions through biofuels or increasing domestic food production can increase nitrogen runoff into US waterways, causing water quality problems. However, scenarios involving sustainable growth and conservation proved to be the most successful in minimizing water quality risks.
A study of over 278,000 births in Finland found an association between steroid treatment and reduced birth weight. Babies exposed to steroids were on average born with lower birthweights, regardless of whether they were premature or full-term.
Purdue University researchers have developed a material that improves the stability of quantum bits by enhancing supercurrents on their surface. This innovation has potential to boost quantum computing's performance and accuracy.
A new study reveals that secondary forests adjacent to extensive primary forests can host diverse bird communities and boost populations of forest specialist birds. The research, published in Biotropica, challenges previous assertions about the conservation potential of young secondary forests.
The AIDS Clinical Trials Group (ACTG) presented 11 oral and 19 poster presentations on HIV and TB co-morbidities, treatment, and cure. Key findings include novel medications for MDR-TB and the impact of DMPA injections among women treated for HIV and TB.
Astronomers using ALMA have found evidence of independent origins for two gas flows from a baby star. The slow outflow and high-speed jet have misaligned axes, indicating they were launched from different parts of the disk around the protostar.
Scientists have developed a model that explains how the nose adapts to smells by efficiently coding patterns across receptor types, which could aid research into age-related declines in sense of smell. The study's findings contribute to understanding how the mammalian nose senses and processes smells.
A new study published in Risk Analysis: An International Journal found that mothers who give birth at night, on weekends, or in teaching hospitals are more likely to experience delivery complications. The study analyzed over two million cases from 2005 to 2010 and found a significant increase in complications during night shifts, weeke...
A genetic discovery identifies a gene mutation allowing clinicians to tailor alternative treatments to patients at risk of thiopurine-induced bone marrow suppression. The test could reduce risks and costs associated with IBD treatment.
The Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute has approved funding for two projects focused on improving patient care and outcomes, including a phone-based peer support program for obstructive sleep apnea patients and a community health worker intervention to improve satisfaction and reduce hospitalization among low-income patients.
A pioneering clinical trial has shown promising effects on restoring brain cells damaged in Parkinson's. While the treatment did not significantly impact symptoms, it demonstrated significant improvements in brain scans, suggesting long-term beneficial effects may be possible.
Research highlights unique animal cultural knowledge that benefits conservation, with insights into species-specific behaviors and social learning processes. Protecting 'social capital' by considering cultural diversity may be crucial for wildlife resilience and adaptation.
Researchers are using tobacco plants as 'green bioreactors' to produce large quantities of the human protein Interleukin 37, which has powerful anti-inflammatory and immune-suppressing properties. The production method is more affordable than current methods, offering potential for treating a range of inflammatory disorders.
Researchers have discovered that Ibiza natives possess a unique genetic signature distinct from the rest of Spain's population. The study suggests that current Ibizans descend from Catalan invaders who repopulated the island from the 13th century, resulting in a genetic anomaly similar to that found among Basques.
Typhoon Wutip weakened rapidly from a super typhoon to a typhoon due to wind shear, with its eye clouded over in a visible image captured by NASA-NOAA's Suomi NPP satellite. The storm is forecast to further weaken and potentially become a depression by February 28 or March 1.
An international team of scientists has identified the cause of a devastating pediatric brain disorder by discovering mutations in the VARS gene. The findings suggest that children with this disorder may benefit from treatments to support protein synthesis in the brain.
Researchers at IST Austria discovered that place cells in the hippocampus randomly replay memories of movement in open environments during sleep, following a pattern similar to Brownian motion. This finding suggests that the complex circuitry of the hippocampus generates an abstract representation of experience.
A study reveals that unique genetic features in desiccation-sensing algae enabled the colonization of terrestrial habitats. The SAL1-PAP chloroplast retrograde signaling mechanism allowed early land plants to sense drought and protect vital photosynthetic tissue, facilitating their adaptation to harsh environments.
A recent study published in the peer-reviewed journal Surgery found that surgery for uncomplicated appendicitis in adults is very safe, with more than 97% of procedures being minimally invasive. The study analyzed 7,778 appendectomies and found that only 3% resulted in complications, making it a low-risk option.
Researchers have sequenced and analyzed the cultivated strawberry genome, providing a genetic roadmap for more precise selection of desired traits. This will help breeders grow strawberries that are resistant to diseases and meet consumer demands for quality.
Researchers at Aalto University used brain scanning to study how people reconstruct facts from clues, revealing the brain's ability to activate a range of properties associated with a concept. The method has potential applications in detecting memory disorders and understanding individual differences in perception.
A new study by Virginia Commonwealth University found that Pinterest is a valuable tool for coping with chronic pain, sharing self-care tips, and supporting others. The platform also has potential as an underutilized resource for health care organizations to share high-quality information.
Aalto University scientists have developed a new method to read information from qubits, the basic building blocks of a quantum computer. By applying two microwave pulses instead of one, they were able to complete the readout in 300 nanoseconds, faster than previously possible.
Researchers have established a novel method to study DNA replication in individual cells, allowing them to gain insights into the mechanisms that maintain genomic DNA stability. The 'scRepli-seq' method revealed that genome replication profiles were highly conserved among cells and reflected the organization of chromatin compartments.
New research reveals that regions with higher rainfall variability are more resilient to current and future climate disturbances. However, the Amazon's ability to cope with climate change is still uncertain due to ongoing forest clearance and policy issues.
A new study from Rice University found that people with non-visible stigmas, such as sexual orientation or health problems, who live openly at work are happier and more productive. Workers who expressed their stigmas experienced decreased job anxiety, improved job satisfaction, and increased commitment to their position.
Children who grow up with green spaces have a 55% lower risk of developing mental disorders later in life. This study from Aarhus University emphasizes the need for designing healthy and green cities to improve urban residents' mental health.
A study of 872 young adults found that 14.4% borrowed over $10,000 due to illness or treatment, while 54% experienced mental task impairment. Cancer treatment with chemotherapy increased the risk of these issues significantly.
The Kanazawa University team has streamlined the synthesis of beta-gamma unsaturated ketones by reacting an aldehyde directly with an alcohol in the presence of two catalysts. This efficient route eliminates the need for expensive pre-activation and produces only water as a by-product.
Researchers will examine how individuals with MS process outcomes of their actions during cooperative interactions, aiming to maximize their competence in social interactions. The study will focus on the impact of delayed reciprocation vs immediate reciprocation on outcome processing in individuals with MS.
A recent study identified 57 gene regions associated with insomnia symptoms and found a causal link between insomnia and coronary artery disease. The research suggests that genetics play a role in insomnia symptoms and could lead to new therapeutic targets for insomnia treatment.
Scientists at Kanazawa University found that AXL protein is responsible for resistance to osimertinib, a tyrosine kinase inhibitor used to treat EGFR-mutated lung cancer. Inhibiting AXL expression can prevent tumor regrowth and improve treatment outcomes.
Researchers at Aarhus University have found that exposure to a combination of perfluorinated substances in pregnant women significantly impairs fetal growth and development. The study, published in Environmental Health Perspectives, highlights the potential health risks associated with these environmental chemicals.
Scientists discovered over 1,000 buried wetland sites worldwide, revealing a record of wetland presence and peat burial. These findings suggest that peat burial can slow down the transfer of carbon from the atmosphere to land, potentially offsetting climate warming.
A study reveals that raindrop impact liberates thousands of dry dispersed spores, increasing their height and exposure to wind. This phenomenon enables the transport of plant pathogens beyond leaf boundaries and across several kilometers.
Women who work over 55 hours a week are at a higher risk of depression, while weekend working is linked to increased depressive symptoms for both men and women. The study suggests that women face additional burdens due to domestic labor and lower paid service sector jobs.
Phoenicians sourced silver from Anatolia, Sardinia, and Iberian Peninsula regions between the 10th-9th centuries BCE. The silver production process and its lead impurities provided insight into their expansion into Europe and Asia.
Researchers at UVA School of Medicine discovered a defect in killer T cells that makes them ineffective against cancer. Repairing this defect could make the cells better cancer killers.
Researchers found Google Translate to be 92% accurate for Spanish and 81% accurate for Chinese, with most errors due to grammar or typographical mistakes. Clinicians are advised to verify translations with human interpreters and provide patients with the original English instructions.
Researchers developed a powerful new tool to investigate brain development, memory, and learning, and the role of gene regulation in neuropsychiatric diseases. The tool selectively and robustly turns on genes in neurons, allowing for controlled expression of individual or multiple genes.