Researchers discovered significantly elevated plasma TDP-43 levels in patients with Limbic-predominant age-related TDP-43 encephalopathy (LATE), a newly recognized form of dementia. This finding could lead to the development of new diagnostics for LATE, currently poorly understood and difficult to identify in living patients.
A modelling study in 90 low- and middle-income countries estimates that herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) infections drive significant healthcare cost savings and improved quality of life. The study suggests that widespread HSV-2 vaccination could prevent millions of quality of life years lost due to HSV-2 and HIV co-infections.
Researchers at the University of Bonn have uncovered new correlations between genetic mutations and cleft lip and palate. The study found that new mutations near the SPRY1 gene and transcription factor Musculin may contribute to disease risk, providing new insights into the biological mechanisms underlying the condition.
Researchers found that differences in epigenetic DNA methylation predict behavioral differences between dogs better than genetic markers. Epigenetics are more informative for behavior than genetics, and the results open up new possibilities for screening and selecting desired behavioral traits in companion or service dogs.
Scientists have discovered that interactions between bacterial growth rate and energy levels can explain the inoculum effect, a mechanism by which bacteria tolerate antibiotics. Providing different nutrients to bacteria with varying growth rates and energy levels can eliminate this effect.
A recent clinical trial found that walnut consumption reduced stress and depression levels in university students. The study also showed improved metabolic biomarkers and overall sleep quality in the longer term. Walnuts contain nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and melatonin, which promote healthy brain and gut function.
A new study demonstrates how anonymized smartphone data can monitor public use of parks and green spaces, shedding light on relationships between people and nature. The findings highlight potential for GPS data to inform management and optimize benefits for both recreation and biodiversity.
A new study from Ritsumeikan University reveals the essential role of relational values in people's readiness to participate in and support sustainable social-ecological system (SES) management. The research shows that integrating relational values into SES management plans can promote pro-SES behavior among people.
Researchers have identified two exoplanets, Kepler-138c and d, as 'water worlds,' with a significant fraction of their volume likely composed of water. The planets are about one and a half times the size of Earth and have much lower densities than our planet.
Researchers from Osaka University developed a new fluorescent sensor system to visualize N-cadherin-mediated interactions between living cells. The INCIDER system enables accurate tracking of temporal changes in these interactions, with a fluorescence signal 70 times stronger than existing methods.
Researchers at the University of Cambridge discovered that the London Underground is contaminated with ultrafine metallic particles, including maghemite, which can be inhaled and enter the bloodstream. The particles are so small that they evade traditional air pollution monitoring methods, posing a significant risk to public health.
Researchers use novel interferometric technique to measure time delay between H2 and D2 isotopes, finding phase shift of nearly 3 attoseconds caused by nuclear motion. The study uses high harmonic generation and advanced theoretical modeling to validate the method.
A new national study found that adult children are over four times more likely to be estranged from their fathers than mothers. The study, conducted by Ohio State University researchers, tracked child estrangement in over 8,000 mother-child and father-child relationships. Results showed that factors such as gender, race/ethnicity, and ...
The global food system exerts significant pressure on the environment and climate, with five countries accounting for almost half of the impact. Locally produced food is often the most environmentally friendly option, but production methods can vary greatly between countries.
Researchers develop synthetic gene circuits to activate anti-tumor functions on demand, allowing for long-term systemic tumor eradication. These advancements enable precise control over CAR T cell function, targeting tumors locally while minimizing toxicity issues.
Researchers have discovered that calcitriol, a form of activated vitamin D3, inhibits arsenic-mediated carcinogenesis in human skin cells. The treatment significantly reduced arsenic levels and suppressed anchorage-independent growth in both keratinocytes and lung epithelial cells.
Researchers found dapagliflozin reduces primary composite outcome in patients with heart failure and improved ejection fraction. The SGLT2 inhibitor may benefit this growing patient population with high risk for adverse outcomes.
The special issue highlights innovation across various stakeholders in newborn screening, including researchers, healthcare professionals, and families. Key findings include the development of novel technologies to screen, diagnose, and treat newborns, as well as long-term follow-up studies and NBS expansion.
A study by Kaiser Permanente found that physically active individuals had a lower risk of severe COVID-19 outcomes. The research showed an association between physical activity and improved COVID-19 outcomes across major demographic groups, including black, Hispanic, and Asian patients.
The UTEP-led Computing Alliance will receive $4.8M from Google to improve diversity in computer science fields. The project aims to attract, prepare and support Hispanic students for graduate degrees, with initiatives including lab design, financial support and research collaborations.
In a groundbreaking study, researchers at Eötvös Loránd University have found that gland cells in Drosophila melanogaster can remove defective secretory particles as early as the secretion process begins. This discovery sheds new light on crinophagy, a previously understudied process crucial for maintaining cellular quality and function.
A new study found that IRS audits can lead to a significant decrease in the survival rate of small businesses, with non-compliant companies being 2.7-12.6 percentage points less likely to survive. However, compliant businesses may experience operational costs but also benefits from improved tax efficiency and increased investment.
A recent study discovered a link between soluble urokinase plasminogen activator receptor (suPAR) and the development of atherosclerosis, a hardening of arteries that affects over a billion people worldwide. SuPAR was found to cause inflammation in blood vessels, leading to cardiovascular events and increasing risk of heart disease.
Researchers developed AI-powered software to measure and classify pacu fish, enabling breeders to select animals with higher fillet yield and faster weight gain. The system uses deep learning and can recognize different parts of the fish even in challenging environments.
The American Society of Anesthesiologists' (ASA) new practice guidelines for monitoring and reversing neuromuscular blockade aim to reduce residual paralysis after general anesthesia. This can lead to decreased postoperative complications such as pneumonia, respiratory arrest, and reintubation.
The study shows that RXR ensures hematopoietic stem cells remain youthful and fit, reducing the risk of developing myeloproliferative syndromes. The regulatory action of RXR on these cells is essential for maintaining a balanced production of blood cell types throughout life.
Researchers at CiQUS developed a new methodology for synthesizing chiral benzazepines, a highly interesting bioactive molecule. The method uses a palladium metal and a newly designed chiral ligand to activate specific C-H bonds, enabling the efficient production of these compounds.
A recent study using game theory explains why people with experience don't report sexual misconduct, citing a 'first mover disadvantage' and uncertainty over others' actions. Reporting improves when individuals are aware of other reports, problematic behavior is penalized, or targeted employees receive damage awards.
Prolonged geographic separation in ecologically similar environments drives new species emergence. Most species evolve under similar selective pressures and divergent ecological adaptation is a minor force during allopatric divergence.
Researchers discovered that Dis1 protein promotes microtubule shortening in fission yeast through catastrophe, a process where growing microtubules suddenly shorten. This finding challenges the conventional view of microtubule stabilization and has long-term applications for therapy and artificial cell segregation.
Scientists at UCSF have engineered T cells to produce a potent anti-cancer cytokine that only activates in tumor cells, eliminating melanoma and pancreatic cancer in mice. The treatment uses IL-2, which supercharges T cells to kill cancer cells while protecting against infection, offering a promising new strategy for fighting hard-to-t...
A large international team has discovered and described 20 new frog species from Madagascar, marking a major milestone in the country's biodiversity efforts. The discovery was made possible by integrating phylogenomics, archival DNA analysis, morphology, and bioacoustics to identify previously unknown species.
Researchers achieved unprecedented extreme physical conditions using a 100 PW laser system, enabling new applications and fundamental science. The system features an OPCPA front end that supports peak powers of 263 TW and pulse durations as short as 13.4 fs.
Researchers at HKUMed identified a new type of nasopharyngeal carcinoma associated with EBV and immunosuppression in the tumor microenvironment. Global DNA hypermethylation was found to be a critical step in NPC pathogenesis, while global DNA hypomethylation may lead to immune evasion.
A systematic review and meta-analysis of 53 studies found that obesity is not a universal phenotype in children with type 2 diabetes. Further studies are needed to understand the mechanisms driving this condition in children with type 2 diabetes.
A new study found that nearly half of wheat crops in Europe are contaminated with harmful fungal toxins, including DON, which can cause vomiting and other gastrointestinal problems. The researchers estimate that 75-million tonnes of wheat exceeded the limit allowed for human consumption between 2010 and 2019, resulting in a loss of aro...
Researchers found that fleas with early-phase infection are insufficient to drive epizootic outbreaks but can promote a low level of enzootic plague. Early-phase transmission may help maintain the enzootic state by reducing susceptible individuals in the population.
The largest earthquake on Mars, a 4.7 magnitude marsquake, revealed layers in the crust suggesting a massive meteoroid impact, with possible alternating volcanic and sedimentary rocks. This finding provides evidence for past collision events that shaped the planet.
Columbia University's Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons has launched a neurodegenerative disease research center, thanks to a $50 million gift from the Carol and Gene Ludwig Family Foundation. The Center will support research on Alzheimer's disease and related disorders, with a focus on innovative treatments.
Researchers at Princeton University have isolated a compound called cloacaenodin, which is a potent antibacterial peptide that can kill clinically relevant drug-resistant strains of Enterobacter. This discovery has significant implications for the treatment of bacterial infections and could lead to new antibiotic development.
A new mass screening system for Covid cases has been developed using artificial intelligence techniques. The system, which involves a hydroalcoholic gel and a QR code, can instantly evaluate the risk of having Covid and provide results with almost total sensitivity (97%).
A team of ecologists is calling for the designation of World Heritage Environmental Datasets to secure funding and ensure their long-term accessibility. These datasets, which include vital information on climate change adaptation, resource management, and environmental policy, are essential to understanding global change.
A team led by Abhinav Jha is developing a novel low-count quantitative single photon emission computed tomography (LC-QSPECT) method to measure the concentration of radiopharmaceutical material in tumors and vital organs. This technique aims to provide accurate measurements of absorbed dose from radiation therapy, helping plan treatmen...
Students from the WüSpace association are working on a project to develop intelligent sensors and algorithms for small satellites, aiming to detect dangerous approaches and prevent collisions. The project is funded by the German Space Agency and allows students to gain hands-on experience in space technology development.
Researchers at Northwestern University have developed a super-hydrophilic wire that can attract and propel water droplets, increasing their speed by up to 270% when they coalesce. This innovation has implications for optimizing fog harvesting, mist elimination, microplastics remediation, and biomedical filters.
Researchers discovered PDGF cross-signaling through alternative receptors in colorectal cancer cells, enabling bypassed signaling. This finding supports anti-PDGF therapy as a combination strategy alongside VEGF and EGF targeting.
A large real-world study has confirmed that COVID-19 vaccination is more effective than natural immunity in preventing death, hospitalizations, and emergency department visits for any cause. Vaccinated individuals had a 37% lower risk of all-cause death and hospital admission rates compared to those with natural immunity.
Researchers discovered that a group of wood-boring clams has evolved to build chimneys made of poop to get pure water in and expel waste, dominating their habitat. These clams have adapted to low oxygen conditions with unique traits like mucosal linings and hemoglobin-rich blood.
A study found that nearly half of Russian university graduates with higher education do not work in their field of study, resulting in a salary reduction of 7-14%. The researchers discovered that those who studied general fields like pedagogy and IT are more likely to experience horizontal mismatch.
The report highlights that European taxonomic expertise is declining, with nearly half of insect orders not covered by sufficient scientists. The lack of expertise correlates with GDP and is more pronounced in biodiverse countries, posing significant problems for species conservation.
A UCLA study conducted by Zili Liu and Chéla R Willey found that white, Asian American, and recent Asian immigrant college students performed similarly on a well-known visual perception test, known as the rod-and-frame task. The results suggest that basic visual functions are largely independent of cultural variation.
Researchers developed a gene therapy tool that protects retinal ganglion cells and promotes optic nerve regeneration in glaucoma models. The treatment, AAV-F-iTrkB, is effective in both high- and normal-intraocular-pressure models, showing promise for treating axonal damage and neurodegenerative diseases.
Researchers at Kyoto University have discovered a vital role of two proteins, ABCA1 and Aster-A, in maintaining the asymmetric distribution of cholesterol within cells. This process allows for selective control over substances entering and leaving cells.
A large Finnish study of 5.5 million residents found no evidence of an increased risk of sudden sensorineural hearing loss following COVID-19 vaccination. The study controlled for previous disease and other potential confounding factors, providing reassurance about the safety of COVID-19 vaccines.
Researchers found that using tixagevimab-cilgavimab in blood cancer patients prevented moderate and severe COVID cases. The antibody provided protection but did not entirely prevent infection, highlighting the importance of additional safety measures.
A recent analysis of Psychiatric Genomics Consortium datasets found genetic correlations between psychiatric disorders differ between European and East Asian populations. Japanese psychiatrists tend to diagnose bipolar disorder less frequently in patients with psychotic features.
Researchers at Osaka University found that disasters and pandemics increase major non-communicable diseases and mental disorders, especially among certain age groups. The study highlights the need for improved post-disaster health policies and prevention strategies to mitigate these effects.
Researchers identified several characteristics increasing risk of infection, while others decreased it. Strict adherence to mask-wearing and vitamin D consumption provided significant protection against COVID-19.
A new study has identified a potential therapy for metastatic colon cancer by targeting the molecule hyaluronan, which accumulates in tumors and shuts down immune cells that can kill tumor cells. The experimental therapy, hyaluronidase, shrinks tumors and allows immune cells to attack tumor cells.
Eating two ounces of walnuts daily for 16 weeks improved self-reported mental health indicators, had a protective effect against academic stress, and aided sleep quality. Walnuts' bioactive nutrients and phytochemicals may underlie their beneficial effects on mental health.