Researchers found that small limbs like insect legs can execute fast movements without central nervous system control, thanks to dynamic passive forces generated by the flexor muscle. These findings contradict previous notions of how small limbs move quickly and highlight the importance of active-muscle and opponent interactions.
Researchers detected just two galaxies near M94, with few stars each, contradicting predictions of galaxy formation models. The study suggests that Milky Way-like galaxies host a wider diversity of satellite populations than previously thought.
Older age, obesity, and depression were associated with chronic hip pain in a study of 2,515 adults. Chronic hip pain was found to be widespread in 50% of cases.
Research reveals that children who experience physical, sexual, and emotional abuse are at least two to three times more likely to attempt suicide as adults. The study also found that people not in contact with mental health clinicians face the highest level of risk.
Researchers at Kanazawa University have developed a new synthesis strategy for chiral drugs by harnessing the potential of aldehyde-derived chiral hydroxycarbanions. This breakthrough enables the selective production of one enantiomer of chiral molecules, paving the way for the creation of complex drugs with desired chirality.
Colorectal cancer mortality rates are projected to decrease in most countries, but increase in Europe, North America, and Oceania. The number of deaths is expected to rise globally by 60.0% and 71.5% until 2035.
Researchers develop phone-based intervention app to strengthen personal and occupational resources in military personnel, promoting balance and growth values. The project's goal is to improve the quality of life for military personnel, addressing stressors such as separation from family and frequent relocation.
A study published in the British Journal of Dermatology found that an investigational nonsteroidal topical cream, PAC-14028, improved clinical symptoms and signs in adults with mild to moderate atopic dermatitis. The cream blocks a specific ion channel involved in pain perception and inflammation.
Researchers detected periodic X-ray signal near black hole event horizon, estimating spin of 50% the speed of light. The discovery uses tidal disruption flare to estimate black hole spin for the first time.
Researchers have created bioinspired artificial compound eyes with improved visual properties, enabling better motion detection and light sensitivity. The innovative structure consists of tiny independent repeating visual receptors called ommatidia, grown on top of convex glass domes with antireflective and water-repellent nanostructures.
A recent study by University at Buffalo researcher Janet Yang found that fear and anger have distinct effects on how conservatives and liberals process information about elections and climate change. Fear was linked to a systematic approach to information processing, while anger was associated with higher perceived knowledge of climate...
Researchers used NASA's NICER payload to detect X-ray light from a small black hole (J1820) consuming material from a companion star. Light echoes revealed changes in the environment's size and shape, providing new insights into stellar-mass black holes' behavior.
Russian scientists developed a new method to study biomechanical changes in tissues after laser surgery, improving the accuracy and safety of eye surgeries. The method uses optical coherence tomography (OCT), which visualizes tissue structure by infrared light scattering, to quantify mechanical properties changes before and after laser...
Researchers found a link between decreased deep sleep and increased levels of the toxic brain protein tau, a hallmark of Alzheimer's disease. The study suggests that poor-quality sleep may be an early indicator of deteriorating brain health.
A new study found that only 8.5% of users shared one or more fake news articles on Facebook during the 2016 US presidential election, mostly from older Americans and self-identified Republicans over 65 who shared nearly seven times as many fake news articles
A metabolite from pomegranate diet, Urolithin A, and its synthetic analog mitigate IBD by increasing proteins that tighten epithelial cell junctions in the gut. These compounds reduce inflammation and restore gut barrier integrity.
Astronomers have found the first evidence of a 'super-remnant' formed from repeated star explosions in the Andromeda Galaxy. The remnant measures almost 400 light years across and is associated with the most frequent nova explosions known, occurring once a year.
A review of published studies indicates that use of benzodiazepines and related drugs may increase the risk of pneumonia. The analysis found a 1.25-fold higher odds for developing pneumonia among current and recent BZRD users compared to non-users.
SourceWiley·JournalInternational Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry·DateJan 9, 2019
A large Canadian study found that having a confidant was crucial for achieving complete mental health after a stroke, while childhood maltreatment and chronic pain were significant predictors of poor well-being. The study identified over two-thirds of stroke survivors as being in optimal mental health.
The study reveals four key themes: gravity of losses, logistics of care, personal versus professional conflicts, and increased student cohesion. The school counselors' reflections provide valuable insights into how they navigated crises while balancing their own needs.
Research found a significant association between Heberden's nodes and imaging measures of knee osteoarthritis. The study suggests a link between finger joint enlargements and structural damage in the knee joint.
Researchers from Skoltech and MIPT analyzed the protein and lipid composition of a Siberian mammoth bone, identifying 98 proteins and 73 lipids. The study provides insights into the mammoth's diet, health, and nervous system development, complementing paleogenomics and paleoproteomics.
Researchers employed machine learning to analyze fMRI data and infer cellular properties of different brain regions without surgery. The approach could lead to personalized treatment plans for neurological disorders.
A new disease is killing beech trees in Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Ontario, Canada, causing dark-green bands on leaves and leading to tree death. Researchers are searching for a microbe or insect cause, using molecular techniques to compare DNA and RNA from diseased and healthy trees.
Astronomers have detected a distant quasar from the early universe using Gemini Observatory, which provides critical insights into the formation of galaxies. The quasar is fueled by a supermassive black hole at its center, with mass 700 million times that of our Sun.
Concurrent tobacco use is associated with a higher likelihood of receiving prescriptions for opioids combined with muscle relaxants and benzodiazepines. This increased co-prescription may lead to prescription drug addiction due to the heightened risk of overdose.
A new study found that only half of US adolescents report having private time with their healthcare provider, despite professional guidelines recommending confidential services. Young people who receive private time have more positive attitudes towards their provider and clinical preventive services.
Childhood malnutrition remained stable in Nepal's hardest hit areas despite the devastating 2015 earthquake. Household food insecurity decreased significantly, with child wasting rates declining by nearly half.
A University of Illinois team has created a synthetic manganese catalyst that can oxidize aliphatic scaffolds in the presence of aromatics, enabling chemists to produce new drugs from old ones. The discovery could expedite the drug discovery process and identify metabolites without requiring new syntheses.
Researchers found that a promising eco-friendly flame retardant, polymeric flame retardant (polyFR), can break down into potentially hazardous substances when exposed to heat or ultraviolet light. The degradation process yields small, brominated compounds with the potential to cause toxic effects on organisms.
Researchers at the University of Texas at Austin developed a new computer modeling approach to investigate the connection between tiny tremors and devastating megathrust earthquakes. The study shows that changes in crustal stress state occur before major earthquakes, providing valuable insights into the forces driving these events.
Researchers discovered that people with bipolar disorder have lower levels of the CPG2 protein, which regulates glutamate receptor numbers at excitatory synapses. Genetic variations in the SYNE1 gene, encoding the protein, undermine its expression and function in neurons.
Researchers studied genetically modified mice with neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1), a condition associated with sleep problems. The mice exhibited fragmented and irregular sleep patterns, similar to people with NF1. This study could help identify molecular mechanisms underlying sleep disturbances in humans.
Researchers at Ohio State University found that using a toilet stool can help people with constipation, bloating, and incomplete bowel movements. The study showed that 71% of participants experienced faster bowel movements and 90% reported less straining.
A study published in Heliyon found that Facebook users who engage in social comparison are more aware of their physical ailments. The researchers also discovered a positive correlation between Facebook use and perceptions of physical symptoms.
Researchers identified a link between BRCA2 mutations and aggressive prostate cancer in men, increasing their risk of developing other cancers. The study also found that patients with BRCA2 mutations have poorer treatment responses and outcomes.
A large study published in The BMJ found that HRT tablets are associated with a higher risk of rare but serious blood clots, particularly those containing equine oestrogen. No increased risk was found for skin patches, gels and creams. The study provides important information for women and their doctors to make informed treatment choices.
Geoscientists at UMass Amherst have reconstructed the longest and highest-resolution climate record for the Northeastern United States, revealing previously undetected past temperature cycles. The study used branched glycerol dialkyl glycerol tetra ethers (branched GDGTs) to provide an independent terrestrial paleo-thermometer.
Pharmacogenetic testing, which maps a person's genetic makeup, can ensure patients receive effective and safe medications. This technology has the potential to deliver an economic benefit of $12 billion over five years to the national health system in Australia.
Researchers from Colorado State University and nine other universities are exploring best practices for strong, disease-resistant potato crops. The four-year project aims to enhance the environmental quality and economic viability of potato operations nationwide.
A recent USC-Stanford study reveals that successfully transplanted stem cells exhibit 'extreme behavior' due to radiation and chemotherapy, whereas healthy cells produce blood and immune cells more evenly. The research also shows that certain stem cells become dormant or biased towards producing specific immune cells.
Scientists have created a 3D-printed device that can absorb excess chemotherapy drugs from a patient's bloodstream before they spread to healthy cells. The device captured about 64% of doxorubicin, a commonly used chemotherapy drug, reducing the likelihood of side effects such as hair loss and nausea.
A new study reveals that an average of 2.1 billion birds migrate along the 1,680-mile Gulf Coast each spring, with peak activity in a specific 18-day period. The research also highlights the importance of understanding migration timing to mitigate threats from human activities.
Alison Weiss awarded grant to study Shiga toxin producing Escherichia coli 0157:H7, also known as Hamburger E. coli, which causes bloody diarrhea and kidney failure. Her lab will use human intestinal tissue models to test potential treatments.
A new study found that more than half of medical cannabis users drive under the influence within two hours of use, with one in five driving 'very high'. The researchers urge for clearer guidelines and public education to increase awareness of cannabis-related driving impairment.
A team of Nottingham scientists is using drones to survey woody climbing plants and better understand how they may affect the carbon balance of tropical rainforests. The findings have been published in the Journal of Applied Ecology, highlighting the potential problems caused by lianas and their impact on global warming.
Researchers create new protein Neo-2/15 that stimulates cancer-fighting T-cells without triggering harmful side effects. The protein has therapeutic properties similar to naturally occurring IL-2 but is computationally designed to be less toxic.
The fall armyworm is forecasted to invade staple crops in South and Southeast Asia, as well as Australia, due to their similar climates. The species' potential for invasion and seasonal migration is high, and early detection of small larvae is crucial for effective management.
The Canadian-led team discovered the second repeating FRB ever recorded, providing a new clue to the astrophysical puzzle. The detection was made using the CHIME telescope, which detected 13 bursts over three weeks at lower frequencies than previously thought possible.
A new UCLA study overturns the long-held belief that cancer cells are glycolytic, consuming more glucose than normal cells. Instead, researchers found that squamous cell skin cancers can use alternative nutrients like glutamine to fuel their growth.
International research teams identify key regulatory networks controlling radial growth in plants, enabling the development of more efficient carbon sinks and increased vegetable crop yields. The study reveals complex mechanisms behind plant stem cell activity and vascular tissue formation.
Women taking HRT tablets are up to two times more likely to develop potentially life-threatening blood clots. The study found a higher risk for tablet treatments, particularly those containing horse urine-derived oestrogen, but no increased risk for patch, gel, or cream forms.
A study found that couples interventions for individuals with type 2 diabetes can reduce partners' diabetes distress and increase marital satisfaction. The intervention also improved diastolic blood pressure, but had no significant impact on weight loss or diet and activity behaviors.
A study found that therapists can improve treatment outcomes for adolescents with depression by regularly assessing symptoms and augmenting treatment. Implementing this approach led to better symptom reduction compared to waiting until Week 8, according to a 16-week sequential multiple assignment randomized trial.
SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry·DateJan 9, 2019
A partnership between Kellogg Eye Center and the University of Michigan used radio-frequency identification (RFID) to track patient wait times and enhance time spent at the doctor's office. The smart clinic model improved efficiency and boosted transparency, allowing doctors to monitor patients' movements and provide timely reassurance.
A new study by Lehigh University researchers found that women and men reach similar negotiation outcomes in a neutral setting, challenging the notion that men are more effective negotiators than women. The study suggests that individual behavior is more influenced by context than gender differences.
The team produced spintronic oscillators that strengthen spin wave signals in several steps, demonstrating a new phenomenon. They showed sharp jumps in frequency from the fundamental tone to much higher frequencies using overtones, paving the way for faster data transmission rates in wireless communication.
A new model predicts that lithium-ion batteries will become the most cost-effective energy storage technology for various applications by 2030. The researchers found that as time progresses, lithium-ion battery costs decrease while those of pumped-storage hydroelectricity do not.
Brazilian researchers used biogeographic analysis to study trilobites, arthropods that became extinct over 252 million years ago. They found paleobiogeographic patterns among trilobites and inferred their ancestral range in the southern hemisphere.
A new study found that PTSD is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease and certain types of cancer. Individuals with a longer duration of untreated PTSD were more likely to develop cardiovascular disease, regardless of the type of traumatic event they experienced.
The Second Chance app uses sonar to monitor breathing rate and detect opioid overdose symptoms. It has been shown to accurately identify overdoses 90% of the time and can track movement and breathing from a distance.
A 45-60 year old medieval woman found to have lapis lazuli pigment in her dental calculus, suggesting she was an accomplished painter of illuminated manuscripts. The analysis challenges long-held beliefs about women's role in manuscript production and uncovers a remarkable life history.
A study at the University of Göttingen found that people learn positive associations with words much faster than neutral or negative associations. The researchers used electroencephalography to analyze brain activity, revealing specific neuronal reactions after just 100 milliseconds for words associated with loss.
The University of Chichester is conducting the first nationwide study of child maltreatment in Australia, exploring its prevalence, impact, and co-occurrence with various forms. The research aims to inform public health interventions and provide evidence for targeted prevention strategies.
A new study suggests that sex plays a major role in attracting potential partners and encouraging the formation of an attachment. The research found that sexual desire triggers behaviors that promote emotional bonding during face-to-face encounters, including synchronization of movements, close physical proximity, and frequent eye cont...
A new University of Guelph study found that parents who use screen time as a reward or punishment increase their child's screen time. The study involved 62 children and 68 parents and revealed that on average, children spend nearly an hour and a half in front of a screen during weekdays and slightly more than two hours a day on weekends.
Research from Duke University suggests that context plays a significant role in food choices, with nearby indulgent treats leading to healthier options. The study found that when paired with unhealthy snacks, healthy foods became more appealing.
A new smartphone software system can quickly detect early signs of opioid overdoses through acoustic signals and breathing patterns. The technology holds potential as a cost-effective tool for prompt medical intervention in cases where timely action is crucial.
Researchers at North Carolina State University developed a new technique to assess radiation exposure using insulator materials found in electronics, enabling rapid triage in radiological disasters. The high-throughput method can accurately identify individuals exposed to high levels of radiation within an hour.
A recent study published in BMC Public Health found that maternal stress during the first year of life is a significant risk factor for developing overweight in infancy. The study, which analyzed data from 498 mother-child pairs, shows a high correlation between stressed mothers and their daughters' weight development up to age five.
The stomach contents of Basilosaurus isis suggest it preyed upon smaller whales like Dorudon atrox. Fish remains also indicate that the ancient whale actively hunted its prey rather than scavenging.
Researchers found that elephants prefer locations with better past forage conditions over current availability, especially during the dry season. They also showed a preference for walking along roads to conserve energy and access food sources.
Researchers at Columbia University have uncovered a striking resourcefulness in the genome that coordinates gene regulation to detect diverse scents. By rearranging its structure in three-dimensional space, the genome generates biological diversity needed for the nose to parse an infinite number of scents.
A large cohort study found that exposure to statins, blood pressure medications, and diabetes treatments reduced rates of psychiatric hospitalization and self-harm in patients with serious mental illnesses. The study suggests that these commonly used drugs may have repurposed benefits for individuals with schizophrenia, bipolar disorde...
Researchers have developed a two-antibody cocktail that protects nonhuman primates and ferrets against lethal Ebola virus infections of multiple strains. The breakthrough offers potential for a single-dose treatment to reduce healthcare worker burden during outbreaks.
Researchers at the University of Liverpool have synthesized a flexible crystalline porous material that can change its structure in response to its environment, mimicking the properties of proteins. This breakthrough enables the design of materials that can dynamically select the structure needed for specific tasks.
Women with severe influenza during pregnancy are more likely to have preterm birth and low birth weight infants. Pregnant women receiving the flu vaccine and those treated promptly with antiviral medications may reduce the risk of adverse infant outcomes.
Researchers detected 'echoes' within an X-ray burst from a black hole, suggesting the corona shrinks as it feeds. The corona, halo of highly-energized electrons, significantly contracts from 100km to 10km in just over a month.
Using recorded audio feedback (RAF) allows academics to provide relaxed and dialogic feedback to learners, reducing mental and physical workload. This method has been found to decrease cognitive load and eyestrain, while also saving time compared to traditional email-based feedback.
Researchers found that cigarette smoking was associated with poor response to cisplatin-based chemotherapy in muscle-invasive bladder cancer patients. Current smokers were also at a higher risk of cancer recurrence compared to former and never smokers, according to the study published in BJU International.
Researchers found that patients with biochemical hypoglycemia are at increased risk of severe hypoglycemic events. The study analyzed the DCCT data set and used two levels of biochemical hypoglycemia to determine the relationship to severe hypoglycemic events.
An investigation by Susan Greenhalgh reveals how Coca-Cola influenced China's health policies through institutional, financial, and personal links. The company's focus on physical fitness over dietary restrictions has aligned with official obesity policy.
Researchers found a significant association between schizophrenia and increased antibody levels against the Epstein-Barr virus. The study suggests that individuals with schizophrenia may be more susceptible to EBV infection due to an abnormal immune response.
Researchers have developed a novel Li anode design featuring a solid electrolyte layer and housed framework to mitigate dendrite growth and volume expansion. The resulting batteries exhibit excellent capacity retention and stability, paving the way for next-generation rechargeable battery development. This innovative approach has signi...
A microbial metabolite from pomegranates, Urolithin A, has been shown to reduce inflammatory bowel disease by increasing proteins that tighten epithelial cell junctions in the gut. The researchers also found that a synthetic version of UroA, UAS03, shows therapeutic and protective effects against colitis.
A study by ARC Centre of Excellence for Coral Reef Studies found fish respond faster to simulated predator attacks in turbid water, indicating increased anxiety. This effect may stunt growth and damage health due to reduced visibility affecting energy allocation.
Researchers found that sunscreen chemical octocrylene (OC) accumulates in coral as toxic fatty acid esters, interfering with metabolism. Levels of OC in the ocean may have been underestimated due to the presence of these esters.
A study found that only 8.5% of Facebook users shared fake news links during the 2016 presidential campaign, with 11% of those over 65 doing so. This age difference in sharing behavior appears to be independent of ideological or partisan affiliations.
Stellar winds from infant stars in the Orion Nebula disrupt the formation of new stars by blowing away seed material. The winds create a bubble that regulates physical conditions and influences star formation activity.
The My Brain Robbie campaign aims to fill an educational gap in dementia prevention by providing public health education for children aged 6-12. The project uses an animated video and free resources to teach eight simple steps to keep brains healthy, connecting with modifiable risk factors for cognitive decline.
The DNA10K initiative will engage over 10,000 patients with genomics testing, providing personalized risk factors for hereditary conditions. Patients will have access to genetic counselors and clinical pharmacists to interpret test results and develop individualized care plans.
Researchers observed cyclical weight fluctuations in zoo elephants that correlate with tooth change process, finding a yo-yo effect in their weight. This phenomenon is unlikely to be observed in wild elephants due to seasonal food availability differences.
Researchers identify key step in transmission of antibiotic resistance and develop novel strategy to interrupt its spread. By understanding how plasmids interact with bacterial defenses, scientists can design therapies that prevent drug resistance from spreading, safeguarding future treatment options.
A survey of 155 medical students found that lack of diversity, negative perceptions by residency programs, and socioeconomic factors were major barriers to pursuing a career in dermatology. The study highlights the need for active recruitment and mentoring of students from all backgrounds.
A recent study published in BMC Public Health found that stressed mothers are more likely to have overweight children, with girls being particularly vulnerable. The research, which analyzed data from over 498 mother-child pairs, suggests that maternal stress during the first year of life can lead to long-term weight development issues ...
Scientists from the University of Bath and Northwestern University have developed a new ultra-sensitive sensor using a gold nanoparticle array, detecting tiny amounts of material with great potential. The sensing mechanism is affected by molecules binding to the surface of nanoparticles, providing a means for detecting small molecules ...
The Open Source Seed Licence safeguards plant germplasm by protecting it from patenting and exclusive rights. This allows for the free exchange of breeding material and knowledge, enabling the development of new varieties like 'Sunviva', a cherry tomato well-suited for gardens and balconies.
Researchers found that specific respiratory microbiome communities may be associated with lower risk of contracting flu. The study suggests that the nose and throat microbiome could play a role in the body's defense against influenza virus infection.
Research suggests that infant mice need a higher dose of bacterial LPS to prevent asthma, while adult mice can tolerate lower doses. This mechanism supports the hygiene hypothesis, which proposes that decreased exposure to microorganisms in childhood leads to increased allergies.
PhD students from underrepresented minority groups publish more research when their institutional culture is welcoming and sets clear expectations. Black students face challenges due to negative experiences in white settings, but these are mitigated by a sense of preparedness and belonging.
Decade after a chemist's death, academic labs continue to improve safety protocols, including incorporating safety into education and training. Despite progress, concerns remain about the effectiveness of current measures in preventing lab accidents.
A recent study found a significant link between voter preference for Donald Trump and increased bullying rates among middle school students. The research, conducted by the American Educational Research Association, analyzed data from over 155,000 seventh- and eighth-grade students in Virginia and discovered that localities favoring Tru...
Researchers have developed a 'drug sponge' that can absorb up to 64% of chemotherapy drugs from the bloodstream, potentially reducing toxic side effects. The technology uses an absorbent polymer coating on a 3D-printed cylinder inserted into a vein, which sops up excess drugs before they reach other organs.
The Lehigh University Energy Research Center is working to develop innovative solutions for managing traditional power plants and developing cost-effective alternative energy sources. The center, in partnership with the Mexican Institute for Electricity and Clean Energies, is studying the use of solar thermal energy to improve CO2 capt...
Researchers have discovered a bright quasar at a time when the universe was less than one billion years old, providing a rare opportunity to study black holes in the early universe. The quasar is fueled by a supermassive black hole and emits light equivalent to 600 trillion suns.
Astronomers have found the first direct evidence of white dwarf stars solidifying into crystals, which could make them billions of years older than previously thought. This discovery has been published in Nature and is based on observations taken with the European Space Agency's Gaia satellite.
Researchers at Rutgers University developed a way to reduce bleeding in patients after bariatric surgery. They found that endogenous thrombin potential (ETP) measurement provides a more accurate assessment of the best dosage for blood thinners, reducing the risk of minor and major bleeding.
A new USC study explores how virtual assistants can facilitate cooperation between humans and buildings, leading to improved energy efficiency and environmental outcomes. The researchers found that small talk and social dialogue help people connect with AI-powered avatars, resulting in better behavioral changes.
A new study has discovered that oscillating X-rays from consumed stars can reveal the mass and spin of a black hole. By analyzing the quasi-periodic oscillation every 131 seconds, researchers found that the signal is representative of the physical properties of the black hole itself.
A Harvard University study found that the Coca-Cola Company, through its connection with a nonprofit group, has exerted substantial influence over obesity science and policy solutions in China. The study, conducted by Susan Greenhalgh, reveals how industry funding and personal connections shaped policy decisions.
A new study reveals that children of Tutsi genocide survivors with complex PTSD exhibit more severe symptoms and self-perception issues, highlighting the intergenerational impact of trauma. Researchers found CPTSD to be a prevalent debilitating condition among Tutsi genocide survivors, affecting not only themselves but also their offsp...
A study of 17 astronauts found that long-duration spaceflight reduces paraspinal muscle size by 4.6-8.8% and increases fatty tissue content, with some changes persisting for up to four years after returning to Earth.
A large-scale study published in Neurology found a significant link between excessive body fat around the middle and reduced brain volume, specifically lower gray matter volumes. Researchers measured BMI, waist-to-hip ratio, and overall body fat in 9,652 participants and found those with higher ratios had lower brain volume.
Researchers discovered that specific pentagonal and hexagonal molecular building blocks can self-sort through geometric complementarity. This phenomenon allows for the creation of nanostructures with predictable geometries, such as tubular structures with pentagonal pores.