Researchers at Tohoku University developed a new imaging technique to detect tumors in lymph nodes before they grow too large. The technique uses x-ray microcomputed tomography (micro-CT) and contrast agents to map the movement of cancer cells within the lymphatic system.
Researchers reconstruct nearly 61,000 microbial genomes from human gut metagenomes, uncovering 2,058 previously unknown species and shedding light on the metabolic capabilities of uncultivated microbes. The study improves genomic resources for global populations, especially in regions with limited data.
A large-scale study published in the Journal of Hepatology found that antiviral therapy significantly improves survival rates for kidney transplant recipients infected with hepatitis B or C. The study analyzed records of over 30,000 patients and confirmed that antiviral therapy should be systematically offered to these patients.
In tropical rainforests, plants produce unique defense chemicals to evade insect-eating predators, promoting biodiversity. A study found that nine Inga tree species developed distinct defense strategies, leading to a diverse forest ecosystem.
A new study shows that innovative communication programs can improve patients' mental health symptoms and quality of life. The program, which involves structured conversations between clinicians and patients, results in more timely and meaningful discussions about patient values and goals.
Research at Princeton University reveals that a DNA-building block limitation is key to embryo survival, preventing catastrophic development. Excess material leads to defective offspring.
A new protocol has increased the rate of successful bone marrow transplants from half-matched donors to nearly 100%, offering a higher chance of cure for patients with severe inherited blood disorders. Patients experienced reduced symptoms and no longer required immunosuppressive medications.
A study led by the University of Colorado found that choline supplements can prevent fetal brain developmental problems when a mother has the flu during pregnancy. Higher levels of choline in mothers also improved their children's ability to pay attention and regulate their behavior.
The study found that telehealth users saved several hours of time and preferred access over continuity with their primary care physician. However, researchers also noted a lack of coordination between telehealth platforms and traditional healthcare systems, which could lead to fragmented care.
A global team of scientists has measured the ocean's sink for man-made CO2 over a period of 13 years, finding that it takes up 34 gigatonnes between 1994 and 2007. The absorption rate is congruent with the increase in atmospheric CO2 levels.
An international team of scientists successfully reversed the flow of time on IBM's quantum computer, simulating a particle's scattering and returning it to its initial state. The breakthrough could lead to more efficient quantum computer operation and improved error correction methods.
Researchers suggest that tectonic activity, particularly volcanic arc collisions in the tropics, drives long-term climatic trends. These events uplift mafic rocks, which are readily eroded and consume CO2, leading to cooling climates.
Researchers introduce 'Responsibility Exchange Theory' to understand the psychology behind thanking, apologizing, bragging, and blaming. They found that thanking and apologizing elevate both perceived competence and warmth for the recipient, while bragging and blaming decrease both.
Researchers have developed a system to target specific cells in the brain using an approved anti-smoking drug, varenicline. This technology, called chemogenetics, allows for precise modulation of neural activity, which could lead to more effective treatments for conditions like epilepsy and pain.
Researchers at the University of Texas at Austin studied how parent-child collaboration influences children's learning behavior, particularly in a real-world setting. Parents who encouraged their children to explain or explore showed unique effects on child behaviors, with those who explored building more complex gear machines.
The American Geriatrics Society has identified five key principles to support the best care for older adults with multiple chronic conditions, including involving personal preferences and weighing benefits versus harms. The society also released a set of action steps to help healthcare providers make informed treatment choices.
The study found the maternal mortality rate after C-section in Africa is substantially higher than expected at 5.43 per 1,000 operations, compared to 0.1 per 1,000 operations in high-income countries. Neonatal mortality rates also double the global average.
Researchers discovered that labiodentals, made by touching lower lip to upper teeth, increased dramatically in recent millennia following agriculture development. This finding suggests language is shaped by culturally-induced changes in human biology to a previously underrecognized extent.
Researchers from HSE and Yandex developed a method to speed up LHC simulation using Generative Adversarial Networks. The approach accurately predicts the behavior of charged elementary particles, enabling faster analysis of experimental data.
A new study from ANU found that 2D materials can thrive in harsh space conditions, with one material even improving its properties after exposure to intense gamma radiation. This could lead to the development of lighter and more efficient solar cells, satellite electronics, and quantum light sources.
Researchers developed the free software 'CoinEater', which recognises and blocks crypto mining on websites without user approval. The software scans over 100,000 pages daily to detect cryptojacking and pop-up scams.
Researchers at Saarland University have developed a nanocoated metal foam process that strengthens lattice structures, producing lightweight yet extremely stable materials. These foams exhibit excellent shock-absorbing properties and can be used in various applications, including catalysis, heat shielding, and architectural designs.
Researchers repurposed an algorithm from Netflix's movie preference prediction competition to create a method for acquiring classical Raman spectroscopy images of biological tissues at unprecedented speeds. This advance could make the simple, label-free imaging method practical for tumor detection or tissue analysis.
A study by Queen Mary University of London found that white British individuals are almost twice as likely to have extremist sympathies as those of Pakistani heritage. The research also discovered a significant association between depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress with extremist views.
Researchers at Saarland University have developed a film that gives touchscreens a third dimension, enabling virtual buttons to appear and disappear on demand. The technology uses electroactive polymer films to create tactile signals, opening up new possibilities for computer games, internet searches, and satnav devices.
A large-scale ancient DNA study reveals that local Y chromosomes were almost completely replaced during the Bronze Age in the Iberian Peninsula. Genetic variation among hunter-gatherers and intermingling with people from North Africa and the Mediterranean provide new insights into the region's history.
Franz-Ulrich Hartl and Arthur L. Horwich's pioneering discoveries on assisted protein folding highlighted the importance of cellular quality assurance. They elucidated key aspects of the chaperone machinery and its role in neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer's dementia and Parkinson's disease.
Researchers designed engineered ion-channels activated by low doses of varenicline to study cell activation and silencing in live animals. The new toolset, tested in mice and a monkey, showed promise for silencing neurons and inducing behavioral changes.
NASA's Aqua satellite provides critical infrared data on Tropical Cyclone Idai before its landfall, indicating cloud top temperatures as low as -63 degrees Fahrenheit. This suggests extremely strong storms with the potential to create severe thunderstorms and heavy rain in Mozambique.
Two studies analyzing ancient DNA from 300 individuals reveal two Paleolithic lineages in Iberia dating back to 19,000 years ago. The findings also show that hunter-gatherers contributed to the genetic make-up of farmers arriving from the Near East between 2500-2000 BC.
Researchers have discovered a specific area in the insular cortex of the brain that responds to sweetness stimulation on the tongue, revealing a complex taste map in humans. This 'sweet spot' is distinct from other tastes like sour, salty, and bitter.
A new test for identifying how single bacteria react to antibiotics could help slow down antibiotic resistance by targeting the right treatments more quickly. The test, which can analyze hundreds of bacteria at once, examines multiple properties and detects the signature of each bacterium in one hour.
A study in Panama's rainforest reveals that neighboring trees have different defensive traits and herbivores, impacting growth and survival. This finding suggests that climate change or habitat fragmentation will affect rainforest health.
A Danish study of over half a million people found that cholesterol-lowering statin medications lower the risk of brain haemorrhages by 22-35% compared to non-users. The study rebuffs suspicions that statins increase the risk of brain haemorrhages.
Researchers have discovered a persistent pattern in the arrangement of islands that form on crystal surfaces during layer-by-layer growth. The study uses coherent X-ray scattering to reveal correlations across the sample, providing insights into crystal growth dynamics and potential applications in materials science.
A new model accounting for social risk factors could reduce financial penalties for at least half of all safety net hospitals, the study found. The research suggests that adjusting for social risk factors has potential to level the playing field for hospitals serving vulnerable patients.
Researchers developed a new approach to treat ischemic strokes by blocking hemichannels, reducing brain damage. The approach also showed potential for treating other neurodegenerative conditions.
New study from Michigan State University finds that student social norms and peer approval are crucial in determining drinking behavior. Researchers suggest emphasizing social costs of risky behaviors and promoting messages from peers themselves, not authority figures.
A recent study using a cholera vaccine cluster trial found that conventional fecal microbiological cultures identified only 66% of patients with cholera, suggesting widespread underestimation of global cases. The study supported the sensitivity of these culture methods, but no evidence of protection was found.
Brazilian scientists have found that the strong odor released by some amphibian species is produced by bacteria, assisting in the animal's mating process. The study suggests that the odor serves to permit mutual recognition between males and females of the same species for mating purposes.
Researchers at Kanazawa University developed a method to visualize and manipulate neural circuits in insects, shedding light on the generation of innate behaviors. The study found that a specific neural cluster plays a crucial role in regulating motivation during courtship behavior.
A study of Swedish adults found a U-shaped relationship between kidney function and cancer incidence, with lower eGFR associated with higher cancer risk. The research suggests that individuals with mild to severe chronic kidney disease may be at increased risk for skin (non-melanoma) and urogenital cancers.
Researchers found that in 9% of cases, embryos produce males when sperm genetic material is used after fertilization. This unique case suggests that males play a crucial role in helping females produce descendants without contributing their own genes.
Asexual female nematodes M. belari produce limited male offspring to exploit their sperm for reproduction and maintain a stable population. This unique strategy allows females to control the reproductive process and ensures that male genes do not re-enter the gene pool.
A recent study at Hospital for Special Surgery found that multi-level anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) can be safely performed in an outpatient setting without increased risk of complications. The study compared outcomes between 57 outpatient and 46 inpatient patients, with results showing shorter operative times and hosp...
A large observational study published in BMJ Open found that medium to high awareness of alcohol marketing among UK teens is linked to increased consumption and a greater probability of 'higher risk' drinking. Ownership of branded merchandise is also associated with future intentions to try alcohol, particularly among never drinkers.
Researchers are analyzing hair samples to study how hormones and environmental factors influence puberty. The goal is to understand the mechanisms that trigger puberty and how personal experiences shape hormone changes.
A recent study using camera traps in African forests found that wild apes exhibit varied reactions to unfamiliar objects, including poking, staring, and attempting to bite cameras. The study highlights the need for scientists to consider how animals will respond to monitoring equipment in their natural habitats.
Researchers at UT Austin developed a solar-powered moisture harvester that captures and cleans water from the air using hydrogels. The system can produce up to 50 liters of clean water per kilogram of hydrogel, making it a promising solution for disaster situations, water crises, or poverty-stricken areas.
Researchers analyzed sea otter use of large rocks as 'anvils' to break open shells, leaving behind recognizable damage patterns and shell middens. The study suggests that sea otters may exhibit handedness, with a consistent pattern of striking the mussels against points and ridges on the rocks.
Virginia Tech professor Webster Santos has received a grant to discover drugs that inhibit a small molecule transporter, which modulates the immune system and could treat multiple sclerosis. The collaboration aims to develop SPNS2 inhibitors for treating MS and metastatic cancers.
A two-week treatment course showed similar efficacy and fewer side effects than the standard eight-week treatment in adult patients with chronic Chagas disease. The results bring new hope for people living with this silent disease and could change access to treatment in endemic countries.
Dr. Parks, clinical director of Orthopedic Surgery at Hospital for Special Surgery, received the 2019 Diversity Award from the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. He has led research projects on socioeconomic and racial disparities in arthritis care and total joint replacement surgery.
Researchers analyzed 385 patients with transplant glomerulopathy to identify distinct features and outcomes, developing a tool for clinicians to predict health outcomes. The study may help individualize treatments for patients at high risk of transplant failure.
Antifreeze proteins, typically preventing ice formation, have also been found to promote its growth at extremely low temperatures. This study, published in the Journal of Physical Chemistry Letters, provides insight into the basic processes of ice formation and suggests potential implications for understanding climate.
The study sheds light on the genetic legacy of European hunter-gatherers, showing a complex and diverse ancestry in southern Europe. The findings suggest that hunter-gatherer lineages survived in Iberia during the Last Glacial Maximum and later intermingled with Neolithic farmers.
Researchers at Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine have made breakthroughs in treating chronic kidney disease with cell therapy. Amniotic fluid-derived stem cells injected into diseased kidneys showed improvement in kidney function and structural recovery after 10 weeks, reducing damage to capillary clusters.
Researchers have developed a novel method for detecting amphetamine and ketamine in latent fingermarks using nanocarrier-based biological fluorescent probes. The method allows for simultaneous detection of multiple drugs in a single fingerprint, providing a potential solution to combat drug abuse.
The study shows that Iberian male lineages were virtually replaced by newcomers from the Russian steppe between 4,500 and 4,000 years ago. The researchers found a significant influx of new people during the Copper Age, which left an indelible mark on the region's genetic makeup.
Researchers found that around half of all British farms were connected to more than 1,000 other farms per year when buying in cattle, and two-thirds were connected to over 1,000 farms when selling. This extensive network of contact chains can help identify potential routes for disease spread and inform control strategies.