Researchers found that zebra mussels can increase Microcystis, a type of cyanobacteria causing harmful algal blooms, by filtering out competitors. The study suggests that zebra mussels may be inadvertently helping toxic algae thrive in nutrient-poor waters.
Researchers identified a subset of localized prostate cancers that exhibit characteristics typical of 'hot' tumors, which may respond to immunotherapies. The study found that about a quarter of high-risk prostate cancers have these immunologic traits, suggesting a substantial number of patients may benefit from immunotherapy.
A research team from POSTECH and ImmunoBiome Inc. discovered a yeast-derived polysaccharide mixture that selectively suppresses inflammatory T-cells and induces regulatory T-cells with anti-inflammatory function. The study found that MGCP, the novel polysaccharide, effectively inhibits inflammatory diseases without major side effects.
A cluster of comet fragments believed to have hit Earth nearly 13,000 years ago may have triggered the transition from hunter-gatherer lifestyles to agriculture-based settlements in the Fertile Crescent. This impact, known as the Younger Dryas event, also caused widespread extinctions and a mini ice age lasting over 1,000 years.
A recent study has found evidence of a large coronavirus epidemic that occurred in the East Asia region more than 20,000 years ago. The researchers used genetic data from the 1000 Genomes Project to discover changes in human genes that suggest ancestors of East Asian people experienced an epidemic similar to COVID-19.
The University of Houston's Air Quality Forecasting and Modeling Lab has developed an artificial intelligence system that can accurately predict ozone levels up to two weeks in advance. This breakthrough could lead to improved ways to control high ozone problems and contribute to solutions for climate change issues.
Rice University engineers developed a strategy to increase the number of transition-metal single atoms that can be loaded onto a carbon carrier using graphene quantum dots. The new technique showed significant improvement in electrochemical reduction of carbon dioxide compared to lower metal loading catalysts.
Researchers found that consuming sugar kelp inhibits hepatic inflammation and fibrosis, and promotes healthier gut microbiomes, supporting the nutritional benefits of locally-grown seaweed for health and disease prevention
A new study of Chinese cats reveals the evolutionary uniqueness and premier conservation importance of the elusive Chinese mountain cat, found only in the Tibetan plateau of China. The research resolves taxonomic classification uncertainty and pinpoints the prospects for survival of this endangered species.
A University of Houston researcher found significant discrepancies between teenagers' dream careers and job availability in the US labor market. Most adolescents aspired to low-automation careers, but these jobs account for only 8% of available positions.
A new study found that many younger adult dental patients are taking medications, highlighting the importance of reviewing medication histories. Medications such as antidepressants and opioids can increase the risk of dry mouth, tooth decay, and tooth loss.
A recent study by the University of Minnesota Medical School found that schools' social climates play a stronger role in weapon-carrying behaviors among US high school students than their racial or ethnic backgrounds. The study also discovered that males who experienced violence or felt unsafe at school were more likely to carry weapons.
West Virginia University researchers are working on a project to create a tomato that requires little to no pesticides. They aim to identify pest-resistant genes and make those new varieties available to breeders and farmers. The goal is to develop an environmentally friendly and sustainable crop that reduces pesticide use.
Despite significant declines in perceived availability of marijuana and alcohol, adolescent use rates remained stable during the COVID-19 pandemic. Nicotine vaping, however, declined significantly, with a sharp decrease in respondents who said they could easily obtain vaping devices.
Researchers have discovered that a bacterial protein has a similar structure and function as human ESCRT-III proteins, which are responsible for remodeling and rebuilding the cell membrane. The protein, PspA, forms protective structures on the cell membrane to cope with stress, and its structure is essential for its function.
A recent study published in Pediatrics found that parents of children with the most complex medical conditions are more likely to report poor or fair mental health and struggle to find community help. The study recommends that healthcare systems provide support resources and prioritize mental health for these families.
A team of researchers has developed micro-actuators that use internal changes as a trigger for signal-based movement, paving the way for new applications in soft robotics, microscale sensing, and bioengineering. The devices, powered by chemical reactions, can be programmed to perform different modes of mechanical work.
A study found that plant-based protein shakes made from potato and rice proteins can effectively manage appetite and blood glucose levels, making them suitable for individuals with diabetes or obesity. The research showed that these plant-based shakes may be a sustainable alternative to milk-based whey protein shakes.
The team successfully synthesized Christmas-tree-shaped palladium nanostructures that enhance catalytic activity for AA electro-oxidation. Multiple sharp edges observed in the nanostructures improve electrocatalytic performance.
A recent study found that mothers with psychiatric disorders had a higher risk of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and developmental delay in their children. In contrast, antidepressant use was not associated with an increased risk of ASD. The research provides reassurance for pregnant women taking SSRIs.
Researchers found that male mosquitoes' ability to harmonically converge affects their offspring's immune response, with males investing more energy in mating effort than immunity. Female mosquitoes are better able to resist parasites and pathogens, but may lose immunity as they age.
New research suggests that treating cancer patients with anti-CTLA4 therapies before anti-PD1 treatment can improve overall survival. High numbers of T follicular regulatory (Tfr) cells in tumors may be to blame for the lack of response to anti-PD1 therapies.
A new study by Norwegian University of Science and Technology researchers found that dopamine levels are linked to passion and goal achievement in men, which may explain the higher prevalence of autism diagnoses in males. The study also found no significant gender difference in passion or grit among women.
Researchers analyzed 7,548 SARS-CoV-2 genomes to find associations between genomic variants and patient deaths. They identified a key mutation linked to changes in the viral spike protein, which plays a crucial role in viral entry.
A theoretical physicist has proved a decades-old claim that Quantum Chromo Dynamics (QCD) leads to light-weight pions, resolving the mystery of confinement. By using supersymmetry and anomaly mediation, Principal Investigator Hitoshi Murayama showed QCD indeed creates pions with extremely small mass.
Researchers at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center developed a machine-learning approach that accurately predicts how human breast cancer tumors will evolve. By analyzing genetic makeup of thousands of individual cells, the team created a model that can predict tumor behavior and identify potential relapse sites.
The study revealed that natural melatonin is linked to a pre-hibernation state that allows mice to slow down their metabolism and survive when food is scarce. Melatonin-producing female mice also enter a state called daily torpor, a low-power mode similar to hibernation that conserves energy.
Researchers found that Asian elephants produce high-pitched squeaks through lip vibration, contradicting previous assumptions that the sound comes from the trunk. The technique is unique in the animal kingdom and may be learned, suggesting flexibility in sound production.
Researchers have identified a new potential treatment for IBS pain, derived from tarantula venom. In mice experiments, the molecule Tsp1a significantly reduced symptoms associated with chronic IBS pain, without interfering with other body functions.
The study found that Denisovans produced the oldest stone tools at the site between 250,000 and 170,000 years ago, while Neandertals arrived later. The researchers also detected modern human mitochondrial DNA for the first time, suggesting they brought new technology to the region.
Researchers developed a blood test that analyzes circulating tumor DNA to predict treatment response in metastatic HPV-positive throat cancer. The test showed promise in identifying non-responding patients months earlier than standard imaging scans.
Research suggests that smoother silicone breast implants produce less inflammation and fibrous tissue, reducing the need for replacement. Studies using mice, rabbits, and human breast tissue show a significant reduction in immune responses with surface designs featuring a roughness of approximately 4 microns.
A novel energy storage solution featuring pipes and anchors could store intermittent renewable energy from offshore wind power plants. The technology offers a promising alternative to conventional battery systems with lower costs per megawatt hour.
Women using hormonal contraceptives face a 2-fold higher risk of developing glaucoma compared to non-users. Women with more than four prescriptions for hormonal contraceptives in the past two years had an even higher risk.
Researchers developed a lab-based technique to observe lithium ions moving in real-time as batteries charge and discharge. This allows them to identify speed-limiting processes that could enable faster charging, with potential applications in electric cars and grid-scale storage.
A year-long Australian population study found full-time workers in poorly managed organisations have a threefold increased risk of being diagnosed with depression. Poor workplace mental health can be traced back to poor management practices and low resources.
During COVID-19 lockdowns, high-energy density foods like sweets and salty treats saw increased intake among some adults, with a heightened risk of weight gain. Researchers warn that those struggling to control food cravings are most at risk, highlighting the need for strategies to manage snacking.
A new analysis of exoplanets reveals that Earth-like conditions for oxygen-based photosynthesis are much rarer than thought. Only a handful of potentially habitable planets have the necessary energy for complex biospheres to develop, with Kepler-442b being one exception.
Researchers used high-speed videos of a person sneezing to identify optimal cloth mask designs. Masks with hydrophilic inner layers, absorbent middle layers and hydrophobic outer layers were found to be most effective.
Researchers are exploring the mechanisms of CASK loss-of-function mutation associated epileptic encephalopathy. A new mouse model suggests that deleting the CASK gene impairs mitochondrial function and energy supply to the brain, potentially causing seizures.
Patients enrolled in the US military's universal health care system experienced improved colon cancer survival rates compared to those in the general population. The study found a 26% lower risk of death among Black patients, highlighting the positive impact of universal healthcare on racial disparities in cancer outcomes.
A low-calorie diet significantly alters the composition of the human gut microbiome, leading to changes in nutrient absorption and influencing weight control. The study found that specific bacteria, such as Clostridioides difficile, play a role in this process.
A new study from Washington University in St. Louis mapped PM2.5 levels across China, Europe, and North America using satellite data and computer modeling. The research found that most changes in air quality were driven by natural meteorological variability, not lockdowns.
Researchers at Gladstone Institutes have discovered a master switch for fibrosis in the heart, which they believe could be used to treat and prevent heart failure. The study suggests that blocking this gene, MEOX1, could prevent fibrosis in other organs as well.
Research led by University of Bristol scientists has shed light on the camel's kidneys, revealing a key role in helping it cope with dehydration and rapid rehydration stresses. The study suggests that cholesterol levels play a crucial role in water conservation, allowing camels to produce highly concentrated urine and minimize water loss.
Researchers at NYU Langone Health have developed an antibody therapy that rescues mice from a lethal muscle-weakening disease by targeting another protein in the same signaling pathway. The treatment reverses disease relapse in adult mice, offering new hope for humans with congenital myasthenia.
Researchers at UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center have uncovered a new mechanism that activates specific genes, leading to cancer development. They found that a mutation in two unrelated genes can promote a process called liquid-liquid phase separation, which enables the formation of compartments with varying physical properties.
A study by Stanford University found that pediatric firearm injuries in the US result in a median cost of $12,984 per patient under 18 years old. The authors analyzed data from the national Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project Kids' Inpatient Database to identify factors contributing to variation in hospital costs.
Scientists successfully synthesized cyclo[9]pyrroles via oxidative coupling of terpyrrole, showing intense absorption at 1,740 nm. The molecular structure and electronic properties were analyzed using NMR and X-ray diffraction, providing insights into the optical and physical properties of porphyrinoids.
Researchers examined family voucher-based kidney donations and found that timely kidney transplants are possible through voucher redemption. The study aims to provide a new option for individuals waiting for a transplant, improving outcomes for those in need.
A meta-analysis of 22 studies found that consumers are willing to pay a premium price for ecolabeled coffee, with an average increase of $1.36 per pound. The study also revealed that Organic ecolabeling has the highest value, followed by Fairtrade and COOL.
Researchers found that Epstein-Barr virus reactivation may cause long COVID symptoms in approximately 30% of patients after recovery from initial COVID-19 infection. The study analyzed EBV antibody tests on recovered COVID-19 patients, indicating a significant difference between those with and without long COVID symptoms.
The number of NHS doctors taking early retirement has more than tripled over the past 13 years, with 1358 doctors quitting in 2020-21. The British Medical Association blames tax regulation changes and freezing of the lifetime allowance for pensions taxation, citing a potential mass exodus of highly experienced doctors.
Organic solar cells have achieved record-breaking power conversion efficiency of 18.4% using a new technology developed by Lithuanian chemists at Kaunas University of Technology. The invention has been commercialized globally and shows potential for various applications, including light-emitting diodes and organic transistors.
The study found that early Anglo-Saxons had a mix of local and continental ancestry, with the ratio changing over time due to varying immigration patterns. The results suggest that being Anglo-Saxon was tied to language and culture rather than genetics.
A recent study by University of Missouri researcher Jennifer Hulett found a link between forgiveness, congregational support, and reduced stress biomarkers in breast cancer survivors. The findings suggest that spiritual practices like prayer, meditation, and yoga may improve physical health outcomes among cancer survivors.
Berkeley Lab scientists have developed a new class of materials called DRX, which can replace cobalt and nickel in lithium-ion batteries. These cathode materials offer higher energy density and can be made with inexpensive and abundant metals like manganese and titanium.
Researchers at Cedars-Sinai are conducting a clinical trial to transplant neural progenitor cells into the brains of ALS patients to slow disease progression. The cells have been genetically reprogrammed to express GDNF, which may help keep motor neurons healthy and extend survival.
A new study by NYU Langone Health researchers discovered a molecular mechanism hijacked by SARS-CoV-2 that makes it vulnerable to drug candidates. The study showed that coronavirus reproduction requires chemical changes made by the human protein METTL3, which can be inhibited by the compound STM2457.
A survey of hospital employees found that mRNA COVID-19 vaccines often cause skin reactions like rashes and itching after injection. The study aimed to investigate the frequency and characteristics of such reactions in this population.