A study revealed that incretin-based drugs act on the Gq signaling pathway to promote insulin secretion and improve blood glucose levels in diabetic patients. The researchers found that a switch from Gs to Gq signaling occurs in pancreatic β-cells due to continuous cell excitation.
A thermodynamic analysis by Skoltech professor Henni Ouerdane and his collaborators shows that waste minimization prevails over efficiency or power maximization in animal locomotion. The study recovered trends with experimental data for walk, trot, and gallop gaits.
Researchers found that providing genetic feedback to high-risk individuals improves their understanding and perceived value of the information. The study aims to improve healthcare by enabling personalized prevention plans and treatments for people with hereditary predispositions.
A study of SARS-CoV-2 virus genomes from over 46,000 people with COVID-19 found that most common mutations are neutral for the virus, and do not appear to increase transmissibility. The research team identified 12,706 mutations, including one in the spike protein D614G, which is not associated with increased transmission.
Researchers at Kyushu University have discovered a unique population of spinal cord astrocytes that produce pain hypersensitivity. Stimulation of noradrenergic neurons activates these astrocytes, leading to enhanced pain transmission. The findings suggest that suppressing astrocyte signaling may enhance the effect of chronic pain drugs.
A study published in Neuron found that surprise during sports viewing leads to changes in brain patterns, particularly in the prefrontal cortex and pupil dilations. The researchers also discovered a link between dopamine-rich regions and increased activity when subjects' preferred teams scored.
Researchers used marine controlled-source electromagnetic imaging to map a pattern of alternating ash/soil and basalt layers that trap fresh groundwater while forcing out seawater. This discovery suggests a novel mechanism for transporting freshwater offshore to the submarine flank of the island.
A recent analysis found that nearly 15% of talc-based cosmetics products contain asbestos, a deadly human carcinogen. The study highlights the need for rigorous testing methods and safer regulations to protect consumers from potential harm.
Researchers at the University of Barcelona have identified a new function of the ataxin 3 gene, which causes Machado-Joseph disease, in the development of retina photoreceptors. This discovery provides insights into the molecular causes of rare diseases like ataxia and macular degeneration.
Researchers discovered how EPYC1 protein links together Rubisco holoenzymes in the pyrenoid matrix, allowing access for repair proteins. This finding solves a longstanding mystery and provides insights into optimizing crop growth rates through genetic engineering.
A recent genetic study has identified DNA variants in ZNF831, FTO, MECOM, FGF5, and SH2B3 genes as risk factors for pre-eclampsia, increasing the risk by 10-15%. The study also highlights the importance of inherited predisposition to hypertension and obesity in the development of pre-eclampsia.
Researchers found that people with a growth mindset of interest are more likely to generate ideas combining diverse fields, leading to higher-quality integrative solutions. This can help organizations create innovative products and services, as well as aid job seekers in adapting to changing fields.
A new study published in The Lancet Global Health found that iron infusion is highly effective in low-income settings compared to oral iron tablets. Women who received an iron infusion had normalized levels of haemoglobin after just six weeks, with continued benefits after one year.
Scientists developed a system to control piano key weight and created active haptic training (AHT) to enhance tactile force sense. This led to improved keystroke accuracy in expert pianists and ordinary persons without professional music training.
Researchers propose a new approach to produce calcium acetylide, a key industrial compound, using renewable carbon sources and reducing its environmental impact. The study simulates the interaction of calcium acetylide with water and dimethyl sulfoxide on an atomic scale, revealing potential for greener synthesis methods.
A new study published in Nature found that community-based freshwater fish reserves in Thailand's Salween basin have dramatically increased fish richness, density, and biomass. The reserves, established independently by local communities, protected over 40 species of fish and showed remarkable conservation benefits.
A study published by the American Academy of Neurology found that Black people have a higher risk of ischemic stroke due to blood clots, which cannot be fully explained by known risk factors. The researchers identified differences in left atrium structure and function between Black and white participants.
A new study found that wildfire disturbance increases the importance of flowering-plant species in determining pollinator composition, while also enhancing the value of pollinators in determining plant composition. The findings suggest that controlling wildfires is essential for maintaining biodiversity and ecosystem services.
The Kawasaki Institute of Industrial Promotion has opened a new website for Project COINS, which aims to establish an in-body hospital network by 2045. The initiative is part of the Center of Innovation Program (COI) and will focus on creating innovative healthcare and medical technologies.
A recent study used induced pluripotent stem cells to find drugs that enhance phagocytosis in the retinal pigment epithelium, a process critical for preventing vision loss. Several drugs showed promise, including Ramoplanin, which rescued defects in RPE from patients with a certain genetic form of RP.
Researchers have developed a method to pattern hundreds-of-meters-long multimaterial fibers with embedded functional elements, enabling the creation of customized devices. This breakthrough could pave the way for new fiber-based devices and smart textiles.
Researchers analyzed 40 3D fossil humeri to understand functional evolution of locomotion in early tetrapods. They found that the emergence of limbs coincided with a transition onto land, but early tetrapods weren't very good at moving on it.
Mathematicians from RUDN University developed new symbolic integration functionality for the Sage system, building on 19th-century ideas by Karl Weierstrass. The team confirmed that Weierstrass's theory can determine whether an integral can be calculated in elementary functions.
The article outlines four key paradigm shifts for 6G wireless communication networks: global coverage through non-terrestrial networks, full spectrum exploration for increased data rates, AI-powered smart applications, and enhanced network security. The future of 6G promises faster and more secure communications, blurring the lines bet...
Fruit flies exposed to microgravity for three weeks showed profound changes to their hearts, including smaller size and reduced contractility. These findings suggest that astronauts may benefit from protective measures to keep their hearts healthy during long-duration space travel.
A team of scientists has detected neutrinos from the sun directly revealing that the carbon-nitrogen-oxygen (CNO) fusion-cycle is at work in our sun. This detection confirms the CNO cycle as the dominant energy source powering stars heavier than the sun.
Kansas State University researchers and international partners have completed the genome sequencing of 15 wheat varieties, representing breeding programs worldwide. This valuable resource will improve global wheat production by unlocking genetic potential for disease resistance and quality improvement.
A new study by McGill University researchers demonstrates that changes in the Antarctic ice sheet were driven by melting ice sheets in the Northern Hemisphere. The team used numerical modeling and geological records to simulate simultaneous changes in sea levels and ice dynamics, revealing a complex connection between the two hemispheres.
Researchers found that people tend to stick to their original estimate or adopt the nearest peer's estimate, compromising only when peers are not in close agreement. This 'egocentric discounting' effect is influenced by the consistency of others' beliefs with one's own, leading to prioritization of confirmation over conflicting views.
Researchers found subtle changes in about 1,000 genes and stronger effects in some genes, particularly among neurons, after exposing worms to low gravity. The study aims to understand the underlying molecular mechanisms of spaceflight-induced health decline in humans and identify potential therapy targets.
Researchers create biosensors using piezoelectric materials to detect specific viruses, including HPV and influenza A. Magnetostrictive materials are also being investigated for sensing bacterial infections.
A European team has identified the most urgent invasive species to eradicate in Europe, including the golden apple snail and water hyacinths. The study prioritizes species based on risk of establishment and impact on the environment and economy.
A team of scientists has built tiny droplet-based microbial factories that produce hydrogen instead of oxygen when exposed to daylight in air. This discovery could provide an important step forward towards photobiological green energy development under natural aerobic conditions.
Research by UCM and Institute of Geosciences identifies degree of ecological specialisation as key factor in squirrels' evolution under climate change. Squirrels that can inhabit multiple environments are more likely to survive, while those restricted to specific habitats are at risk of extinction.
Researchers found that concurrent dexamethasone administration with an immune checkpoint inhibitor reduced survival in both immunosensitive and immunoresistant mouse models. In human patients, those taking dexamethasone at baseline had significantly worse overall survival compared to non-users.
A study found that nearly half of the global population lacks knowledge about climate change's effect on infectious diseases. The survey revealed marked differences in awareness among nationality and educational background. Knowledge of climate change is unrelated to educational level, indicating a need for increased public awareness.
A 28-country comparison of 280,605 adults reveals that specific muscle-strengthening exercises are not widely practiced. Only 17% of Europeans perform these exercises twice or more a week, as recommended by the World Health Organization.
A phase 1 trial involving 12 children with relapsed neuroblastoma found CAR T cells effective against tumors without damaging nerve tissue. The treatment showed signs of antitumor immunity in some patients and may be further modified to boost persistence within tumors.
A new study published in Neurology found that people with multiple sclerosis (MS) had a 72% greater risk of developing bladder cancer compared to those without the disease. However, breast and colorectal cancers did not show a significant association with MS.
A USask-led international team has sequenced the genomes of 15 wheat varieties representing breeding programs worldwide, enabling scientists to quickly identify influential genes. The results provide a comprehensive atlas of wheat genome sequences, which will accelerate breeding efficiency and meet future food demands.
An international team of scientists is calling for a dedicated decade-long programme to greatly advance discovery in the remote regions of the world's oceans. The programme, named Challenger 150, aims to generate new data through global cooperation and application of new technology.
A new study found that high national math achievement combined with societal pressures can lead to decreased enthusiasm for learning math among girls. Girls are more susceptible to this effect, highlighting the need for schools to promote both interest and achievement in mathematics.
New research by BIDMC sheds light on genetic risk factors that make individuals more or less susceptible to severe COVID-19. The study identifies two regions of the human genome linked to disease severity and suggests potential therapeutic targets.
This study demonstrates CsPbBrI2 perovskites with improved optoelectronic performance through secondary grain growth functionalization. The resulting devices exhibit ultra-low energy loss, higher carrier mobility, and record PCEs under various light sources.
A comprehensive analysis of proteins, genes, and RNA transcription in pediatric brain tumors has provided new understanding of these tumors. The study identified two distinct subgroups of pediatric craniopharyngioma with potential therapeutic avenues for treatment.
A study by Radboud University Medical Center found that most lung tissue recovers well after COVID-19, with limited residual damage. Patients who were referred to the aftercare clinic showed poorer recovery rates compared to those admitted to the ICU.
A new study analyzing 22,445 UK emergency department patients with suspected COVID-19 infection found significant age, sex, and ethnicity differences in symptoms and outcomes. Adults were more likely to be admitted to the hospital and die than children, while men faced a higher risk of admission and organ support.
Researchers have sequenced multiple wheat and barley genomes, revealing hidden genetic variation that can be used to breed more productive and resilient crop varieties. The project aims to increase global wheat production by over 50% by 2050 to meet future food demands.
Researchers at the University of York have created a new modified wheat variety that produces grains up to 12% bigger than conventional varieties without decreasing grain numbers. This breakthrough could help meet the increasing global food demand, especially considering the need for a 50% increase in production by 2030.
Researchers from the University of Pittsburgh have created a serpentine path for electrons, changing their properties and giving rise to new behavior. The work uses a nanoscale sketching technique to engineer spin-orbit interactions, which could be useful in future quantum technologies.
Researchers have re-engineered human adenovirus to evade liver and innate immune systems, enabling systemic delivery without triggering life-threatening toxicities. The modified virus can selectively kill tumor cells while sparing healthy tissue, offering a new avenue for metastatic cancer treatment.
Researchers have successfully visualized how carbon dioxide behaves in an ionic liquid that selectively absorbs CO2. The findings are expected to help develop more efficient methods to capture CO2, a major factor causing global warming.
The study found that Earth's early atmosphere was slightly oxidizing, with carbon dioxide as its main constituent, and had a surface pressure much higher than today due to the hot surface.
Researchers at John Innes Centre develop a haplotype-led approach to improve wheat breeding precision. They identified three novel haplotypes associated with improved productivity traits in UK environments, which could be targeted for yield improvement in elite cultivars.
A newly discovered bird fossil, Falcatakely, sheds light on the evolution of complex anatomy and provides new perspectives on bird facial structure. The species boasts a unique, scythe-like beak shape and is part of an extinct group known as Enantiornithes.
Researchers have discovered how the algal pyrenoid, a critical component in carbon fixation, is assembled. A sequence of amino acids, or motif, guides the proteins to the pyrenoid, allowing it to form and function correctly. This discovery sheds light on a long-standing mystery in scientific research.
A new study published in The BMJ found that patients who underwent leg artery bypass surgery under spinal or epidural anesthesia had a lower risk of death compared to those under general anesthesia. This may lead to significant cost savings and improved patient outcomes.
A recent study published in Psychophysiology found that the essence of human being remains stable throughout life, with a component of self-awareness remaining intact. The study suggests that changes to physical aspects, attitudes, and values are more likely to occur over time.
A study by Shibaura Institute of Technology found that non-muscle tissues, specifically nerves, contribute more to joint flexibility as individuals age. Researchers measured ankle ROM and tissue stiffness in young and old adults, revealing a correlation between nerve stiffness and increased ROM in older participants.
Researchers have mapped a vast freshwater reservoir off the coast of Hawaii Island, revealing a new mechanism for transporting freshwater from onshore to offshore aquifers. This discovery has significant implications for sustainable development on volcanic islands, potentially providing alternative renewable resources.