Researchers uncover how cancer cells make lactic acid to thrive in low-oxygen environments, a process enabled by the PRL-3 protein. This discovery holds promise for developing inhibitors to disrupt this survival mechanism.
Two studies report substantial reductions in COVID-19 infections and deaths among vaccinated organ transplant patients, with a lower risk of breakthrough infections compared to the general population. Vaccination is considered critically important for this high-risk group.
A team of researchers has developed a new concept for a future brain-computer interface system that employs independent, wireless microscale neural sensors to record and stimulate brain activity. The system, dubbed 'neurograins,' successfully recorded neural signals from a rodent's cerebral cortex, demonstrating its potential to provid...
Researchers at Aalto University have discovered that fibrous red phosphorous, when electrons are confined in its one-dimensional sub-units, shows large optical responses. The material demonstrates giant anisotropic linear and non-linear optical responses, as well as emission intensity.
Collective behavior in schools of herring, herds of wildebeest, and other groups helps maintain ecosystem diversity and stability. The study found an emergent social-ecological feedback that buffers the system against crashing, allowing more consumer species to persist.
Scientists have discovered three new dinosaur fossils in Northwest China, representing two new species: Silutitan sinensis and Hamititan xinjiangensis. The findings shed light on sauropods in the region and increase the known diversity of Mesozoic reptiles in the area.
Researchers found that weighted restraint significantly decreases lung reserve volume and increases breathing effort during recovery from exercise. The study's findings suggest that prolonged application of weighted restraint could pose a threat to the subject's survival.
Researchers created a duplex bond coat approach that extends the life of engine components, protecting them from chemical reactions and water vapor. The new coating system uses ytterbium disilicate and hafnium oxide to create a stable and durable barrier against high temperatures.
Researchers found a correlation between the damping time scale of accretion disk variability and supermassive black hole masses. This discovery may help constrain poorly understood processes within accretion disks.
Andrew Jackura, a postdoctoral researcher, aims to study the three-body problem, which explains strong nuclear interactions among three particles. He will use lattice QCD to investigate this complex phenomenon and ultimately understand how it contributes to nuclear binding.
A joint Sino-Brazilian research team has reported new dinosaur fossils from the Early Cretaceous Hami Pterosaur Fauna, including two giant sauropod species. The findings, published in Scientific Reports, provide significant insights into Chinese sauropods and the ecological diversity of the region.
A new study suggests that competition from coyotes is putting pressure on gray foxes, particularly in the Southeast. In regions where coyotes and foxes coexist, they partition their diets without overlap, but coyotes' arrival in the Southeast has led to significant regional differences in diet overlap.
Researchers at Portland State University developed data-driven speed management strategies to improve safety and efficiency in multimodal transportation. They found that disabling speed feedback signs on conventional roadways resulted in reduced driver speeds and a lower likelihood of severe crashes.
A novel blood test, Stockholm3, can reduce the number of MRIs performed by a third while preventing the detection of minor, low-risk tumours. The addition of this test to MRI reduces overdiagnosis by as much as 69% and halves the number of biopsies.
A multi-year study found that cashless fare systems can exclude lower-income riders due to lack of access to smartphones, internet, and banking services. Maintaining cash options can mitigate this issue, offering a more equitable solution for all riders.
Researchers discovered that black howler monkeys use cognitive maps similar to humans, following well-trodden routes and linking them to take short-cuts. The primates can also supplement their mental maps with knowledge of direction and distance between locations.
A study from Michigan State University's Sleep and Learning Lab found that short naps of 30 or 60 minutes did not show measurable effects on relieving the effects of sleep deprivation. However, participants who obtained more slow-wave sleep during the nap showed reduced impairments associated with sleep deprivation.
A study by Texas A&M University researchers has developed a simulation-based approach to accurately predict the effects of altered gravity on an individual-by-individual basis. The approach identifies key factors influencing cardiovascular responses and increases accuracy and saving time compared to traditional methods.
A new article examines polycentric development in the Wasatch Front Region, Utah, finding that moderately compact urban design fosters trip generation through walking and biking. The study also highlights the importance of public transit connections to reduce vehicle miles traveled and combat urban sprawl.
Researchers at HKUST have revealed how surface ruthenium atoms improve hydrogen evolution and oxidation activities on platinum, opening a new venue for rational design of more advanced catalysts. This discovery rules out widespread theories and opens directions for future design of high-performance bimetallic electrocatalysts.
A comprehensive analysis of data on nearly two million adults found that high-glycemic foods are neither more nor less likely to lead to weight gain than low-glycemic foods. The study suggests that carbohydrate quality, rather than glycemic index, is a more important factor in determining body weight.
A recent study published in Clinical Infectious Diseases documents the person-to-person transmission of antimicrobial-resistant pneumonic plague in an outbreak in rural Madagascar. The AMR strain was resistant to streptomycin but susceptible to co-trimoxazole, and all patients treated with antibiotics survived.
A Duke University-led study found that bottlenose dolphins burn calories at a lower rate with age, similar to humans. The researchers measured the dolphins' average daily metabolic rate using the 'doubly labeled water method,' finding that older dolphins used 22% to 49% fewer calories each day than expected for their body weight.
A new study published in Nature Food found that long-running wars are the primary driver of rising hunger in Africa, displacing people, raising food prices, and blocking aid. Droughts have played a smaller role in exacerbating food insecurity, with their impact remaining steady or even decreasing over time.
Researchers have determined the structure of human leukotriene B4 receptor 1 (hBLT1), a protein involved in inflammation and disease. The analysis reveals how the receptor recognizes its binding partners and interacts with them, opening up avenues for designing better drugs.
Researchers used isotopic data from a mammoth's tusk to recreate its lifetime journey, covering vast distances across Alaska. The study provides the first evidence that woolly mammoths traveled extensively.
The winning image by Kristen Brown depicts a school of jack fish in a spiral formation, symbolizing the beauty and bounty of oceans as well as the spiralling crisis of coral reef decline. The competition celebrates Earth's biodiversity and its evolutionary origins through six categories.
Advances in plant-based technology have revived interest in pharmaceuticals produced in plants, including edible drugs. Plant-derived therapeutic proteins have shown promising results in clinical trials, with strong immune responses generated by virus-like particles in vaccines.
A new study by Cornell University reveals that TV ads significantly influence retail investors' decisions, leading to increased online searches and stock trading volumes. The study found that certain types of ads, such as those airing during prime-time hours or for financial sector products, generated the strongest investor response.
Researchers at Niigata University have identified a key pathway involving the protein optineurin that may contribute to the development of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) disease. The study found that optineurin inhibits the formation of stress-induced TDP-43 protein aggregates in motor neurons, which are a hallmark of ALS.
Researchers at H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute found that combining checkpoint inhibitors with adoptive cell therapy improves treatment outcomes for patients with non-small cell lung cancer. The study showed promising anti-tumor activity, with 11 out of 16 patients experiencing tumor regression.
A new study documents distinct changes in daily energy expenditure throughout the human lifespan, from birth to old age. The research, based on a large cohort of humans, reveals that energy expenditure varies significantly across life stages, with rapid increases during infancy and childhood, followed by a plateau through adulthood.
Researchers discovered a definitive relationship between the mass of actively feeding supermassive black holes and their characteristic timescale in light flickering patterns. The findings suggest that the processes driving flickering during accretion are universal, applying to both massive black holes and lighter white dwarfs.
A unique pair of gene variants has been found to cause sudden onset high blood pressure in pregnant women, which can be treated with a procedure to remove the adrenal nodule. The discovery provides new hope for women affected by this condition.
A study of over 6,600 people worldwide found that metabolism slows down by about 3% each year until the 20s, then levels off. Energy needs do not increase during adolescence or midlife despite expected growth spurts.
A new study uses machine-learning algorithms to predict the next phase of a traffic signal, giving bicyclists a smoother ride. The researchers achieved high accuracy with 85% prediction success rate, using LSTM and 1D CNN models.
A new approach to modeling COVID-19 spread incorporates real-time data on people's movements, showing promise for optimal lockdown policies. The study suggests a balance between controlling the pandemic and minimizing economic costs can be achieved through mathematical models and Google mobility data.
SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 12, 2021
Researchers found that climate change will amplify the temporary cooling caused by large eruptions and reduce its effect on small- and medium-sized eruptions. The study used global climate models to simulate how volcanic aerosols might be affected by warming scenarios.
A study published in The Lancet found that at least 11.1% of COVID-19 patients in 314 UK hospitals were infected after admission, with rates rising to 16-20% in mid-May 2020. Researchers attributed the high transmission rates to limited facilities for case isolation, diagnostic testing challenges, and airborne transmission.
New research on female mice reveals that experienced mouse mothers tutor other females in parenting skills, facilitated by the hormone oxytocin. This behavior is observed even when the mice are separated by a clear plastic window, suggesting a strong learning mechanism.
Researchers developed three criteria to assess loss of prediction efficiency when modeling large spatial datasets. The tool, called TLR estimation method, provides insight into 'fit' of approximation parameters and prediction variability.
Cornell University researchers used facial recognition AI to develop an imaging robot called BlackBird that scans grape leaf samples automatically, reducing manual assessment time from six months to one day. The technology has the potential to save farmers billions of dollars by detecting disease early and reducing fungicide usage.
Hybrid classical/quantum algorithms enable the use of limited qubits and error-prone hardware for tasks such as simulations, factoring numbers, and big-data analysis. Researchers have developed variational quantum algorithms that adapt to hardware constraints.
A team of researchers has cracked the code on dog coat color patterns by identifying five distinct genetic variants that cause different colors. These variants originated in an extinct species and were introduced into modern dogs through hybridization events.
The latest August issues of The American Journal of Psychiatry and Psychiatric Services explore the use of neuroimaging and machine learning in psychiatry. Researchers highlight both the benefits and limitations, including advancements in understanding and practice, as well as service inequities among underserved groups.
Researchers develop a drug delivery platform that efficiently delivers antisense oligonucleotides to the central nervous system, overcoming the blood-brain barrier. This breakthrough has significant implications for treating neurodegenerative diseases such as spinal muscular atrophy and other CNS disorders.
Scientists reconstructed the life history of a woolly mammoth using isotopes from its tusk, revealing it traveled vast distances and covered an extensive range in Alaska. The analysis provides insight into the animal's preferred habitats and behavior, shedding light on one of the most iconic ice-age creatures.
A CDC mask guidance update in May 2021 ignored realities that left vulnerable communities exposed to increased transmission of COVID-19. The guidance relied on the honor system to ensure unvaccinated individuals wore masks, but experts say this approach was flawed due to lack of verification methods.
Researchers developed a nanotherapeutic platform that combines camptothecin with immune checkpoint inhibitors to increase effectiveness against aggressive tumors. The approach showed promising results in eliminating difficult-to-treat late-stage metastatic colorectal cancer and melanoma tumors.
Researchers discovered that skin fibroblasts from FTD patients exhibit pathological RNA foci, p62 protein-containing vesicles, and defective energy metabolism, which could lead to the development of novel biomarkers and treatments. These findings may also be useful in testing drug effects on FTD patients.
Scientists at University of California San Diego School of Medicine have developed a method to keep cultured hematopoietic stem cells healthy, positive news for patients seeking stem cell transplants. The findings also hint at a new way to ward off aging by super-activating the heat shock pathway.
A high-fat diet causes inflammation and damages intestinal epithelial cells, leading to the growth of harmful microbes and increased production of trimethylamine-N-oxide, a metabolite associated with cardiovascular disease. Researchers found that restoring intestinal function with a drug can blunt this effect.
New research finds that performance feedback at healthcare clinics significantly increases flu vaccination rates. Clinics that received performance rankings grew their flu vaccinations by 12%, outperforming control clinics by 23 percentage points.
A systematic review of medical research found that ketamine and esketamine do not have significant deleterious neurocognitive effects in treatment-resistant depression. Some cognitive functions even improved after repeated infusions.
The Wendelstein 7-X stellarator has demonstrated reduced neoclassical energy transport, lowering plasma energy losses. The optimised magnetic field successfully minimises these losses, a major weakness in conventional stellarators.
Scientists have discovered a new marmoset species, Schneider's marmoset (Mico schneideri), in the Brazilian Amazon. The discovery sheds light on the high levels of land clearing and fires in the region, where conservation efforts are urgently needed to protect this threatened group of monkeys.
A new study found that states with low initial use of HIV-prevention drugs continue to fall behind in usage among people at risk for the disease. Researchers urge federal and state governments to close gaps by implementing successful policies from early-adopting states, such as telehealth programs and expanding Medicaid.
Flipon genetics proposes that evolution happens on a faster time scale than Darwin imagined, with rapid adaptations occurring in real-time within individuals. This is achieved through the simple sequence repeats of DNA, which can adopt alternative shapes and transmit adaptations to offspring.
Researchers found Philippine Negrito ethnic group, Ayta Magbukon, possess the highest level of Denisovan ancestry in the world. Their Denisovan DNA is up to 46% greater than that of Australians and Papuans.
Researchers highlight the potential of covalent organic frameworks (COFs) in solar-to-fuel production, converting sunlight into hydrogen and other fuels. COF-based photocatalysts have shown promising properties, including improved catalysis and electron delocalization, making them a viable solution for future energy needs.
A new study reconciles the molecular clock with the fossil record of plants by linking older spore-like microfossils to younger plant spores derived from charophyte algae, revealing the evolutionary assembly of the plant regulatory and developmental genome.
Researchers at UC San Diego developed a cancer immunotherapy that pairs ultrasound with CAR T-cell therapy to destroy malignant tumors while sparing normal tissue. The therapy significantly slowed down tumor growth in mice and showed minimal on-target, off-tumor side effects.
A study found that plasma pentosidine levels, a marker of advanced glycation end products, were significantly associated with impaired processing speed in schizophrenia patients. The results suggest that reducing AGEs may contribute to improving cognitive function and promoting recovery in patients with schizophrenia.
Researchers found that batters keep their eye on the ball but move their head to direct their gaze. The study suggests that this movement may help reduce visual calculations needed for accurate bat placement. Further investigation is needed to determine if eye-gaze-based training can improve batting performance.
A new study reveals that metabolism peaks in infancy, followed by a gradual decline until age 60, with the biggest slowdown after 90. The research suggests that tissue metabolism is changing over time, contradicting previous assumptions about lifestyle and body composition.
A study of over 11,000 elementary school students found Black children are 3.5 times more likely to receive detentions or suspensions than their white peers, even after controlling for socioeconomic factors. This disparity suggests individual biases and systemic racism may be contributing to the findings.
SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry·TypeObservational study·DateAug 12, 2021
Researchers found a link between Zika virus-induced microcephaly and NAD+ metabolism, identifying NAD+ as a key factor in the disease. Supplementing with NAD+ or its precursors may provide therapeutic benefits for newborns affected by Zika virus infection.
Researchers analyzed nearly 500 million measurements of arctic-alpine plant growth, finding that deciduous species such as dwarf birch thrive in warmer winters, while evergreen species like crowberry struggle. The study suggests climate change may lead to an increase in greening of arctic-alpine regions.
Researchers from FAU Harbor Branch adapted Structure-from-Motion photogrammetry to generate 3D models for tracking lesion progression and impacts on diseased coral colonies. The study found that stony coral tissue loss disease prevalence varied significantly across location, but not through time.
A study published in PNAS uses CRISPR technology to understand how genetic mutations cause hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. The research found that specific mutations can lead to changes in the movement of myosin proteins, which are essential for heart contraction. This new understanding has implications for preventing and treating HCM.
A team of researchers from the University of York has identified a new class of enzymes that enable crop pathogens to break through plant cell walls and infect plants. The discovery could lead to effective disease control technologies and protect crops from devastating diseases such as potato late blight.
Researchers at Weill Cornell Medicine found that defective red blood cells with retained mitochondria contribute to lupus inflammation. The study provides a new piece to the lupus puzzle and could lead to targeted therapies for patients.
Researchers at Case Western Reserve University will study the genomics of Alzheimer's disease in people of African heritage across the US. The study aims to address the lack of diversity in existing genetic research and identify novel risk factors for the disease.
A study by McGill University researchers found that planned hydropower dams could sever over 260,000 km of river, threatening free-flowing rivers globally. The dams would collectively generate less than 2% of the renewable energy needed by 2050 to keep global temperature increase below 1.5°C.
Researchers have discovered how PARP inhibitors selectively kill cancer cells carrying BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations. The findings provide a mechanistic explanation for the selectivity of PARP inhibitors toward BRCA-mutant cells.
A Michigan Medicine study found that altering interferon kappa levels in mice with psoriasis-like lesions reduced disease severity. The research suggests using therapies to modulate interferon states may limit inflammation in psoriasis patients.
The University of Exeter has developed a virtual safe space tool called BEE-STEWARD to test different land management techniques for bumblebee survival. The tool provides a computer simulation of bumblebee colony survival in a given landscape, allowing researchers and farmers to predict the impact of their decisions.
New research from Cornell and Stanford University suggests that 'blue' hydrogen, touted as a clean energy source, may have a larger carbon footprint than burning fossil fuels. The process of making blue hydrogen requires more energy than traditional methods, leading to increased greenhouse gas emissions.
A new study reveals that metabolism increases rapidly during infancy, peaking at around one year old. After a gradual decline until the 20s, metabolism levels off and then slows down again after age 60, with older adults requiring fewer calories. The findings suggest that muscle loss and cellular changes contribute to this decline.
A new study reveals that four miRNAs can effectively inhibit SARS-CoV-2 replication, with lower levels in elderly and diabetic individuals. Exercise boosts the level of these miRNAs, providing better protection against COVID-19.
Scientists from the Institute of Nuclear Physics PAS discovered that medicines like painkillers can be used as makeshift emergency dosimeters due to their composition and standardization procedures. This method is more personal and easier than previous methods, which require breaking down expensive devices.
A Wayne State University researcher has been awarded a $1.93 million NIH grant to investigate the impact of maternal immunoglobulin D on infant immune protection against food allergies. The study aims to elucidate the mechanisms of placental IgD transfer and its potential as a prophylactic fetal immune education cue.
A recent study published in European Journal of Epidemiology reveals that widowers are at a higher risk of being diagnosed with advanced prostate cancer. The research highlights the importance of social environment and lifestyle factors in the development of the disease.
Abnormal cells that develop into oesophageal cancer start as stomach cells and can be reprogrammed to adopt an intestinal identity. The study identified two key genes, MYC and HNF4A, that switch tissue identity from stomach to intestinal cells.
A study analyzing 7,000 tree falls in São Paulo City found that most occurrences occur in the rainy season due to weather conditions. However, a significant number of trees fell during the dry season, attributed to poor management and inadequate conditions for street vegetation.
The University of Maryland associate professor will use genetics, cell biology, and pharmacology to examine the mechanisms of copper transport and its connection to thermogenesis and fat burning. The research aims to improve human health by understanding how copper relates to hypothermia, obesity, and diabetes.
Researchers have developed a novel type of soft hybrid ultramicroporous material that can change its pores to allow acetylene molecules to fit in perfectly. The material binds acetylene with unusual strength and allows for highly selective separation from other gases.
A new study by Newcastle University researchers has developed dynamic DNA data structures that can store and retrieve information in an ordered way. The study presents an in vitro implementation of a stack data structure using DNA polymers, which stores and retrieves information in a last-in-first-out order.
A new study found that school closures exacerbated existing inequalities in education, with disadvantaged families spending less time on learning at home. Despite increased home lessons, the gap between advantaged and disadvantaged families remained, with single-parent families showing a narrowing of the gap.
Researchers aim to uncover a unifying molecular mechanism driving axon degeneration across multiple neurodegenerative diseases. They will investigate the role of palmitoylation in controlling axon survival factor destruction by DLK.
Researchers found that states have implemented new autism-specific Medicaid programs, with the most common type being the 1915(c) waiver authority, providing home and community-based services. The study suggests that further replication of successful efforts is needed to improve access to services for individuals on the autism spectrum.
Researchers identified a group of neurons in the brainstem that plays a key role in opioid-induced respiratory depression, which causes overdose deaths. Blocking these receptors can restore breathing during an overdose, offering potential new treatment targets.
A new proposal aims to enable parents to participate in decision-making about life-saving treatment for premature infants. This balance is crucial as treatment can do great harm, while without it, the infant dies. Guidelines vary between countries, with some allowing treatment up to gestational week 23.
A study of over 12,000 respondents found that women, young adults, and the unemployed experienced increased mental distress due to COVID-19. Despite severe illness risks for certain groups, mental distress levels did not surpass past measurements.
A recent study found that weight fluctuations are associated with higher risks of cardiovascular-related problems and early death in adults with chronic kidney disease. The study included 84,636 patients with CKD who were listed in a national health screening database in South Korea.
A new study has pinpointed nine processes that lead to most human genetic mutations, including inaccurate DNA copying and chemical damage. The research analyzed 400 million rare DNA variants and identified a set of biological processes responsible for heritable human mutations.
Researchers at Nagoya City University have detected strongly entangled pair of protons on a nanocrystalline silicon surface. This breakthrough could enable the creation of more qubits and ultra-fast processing for supercomputing applications, revolutionizing quantum computing.