A new study published in PLOS Genetics found that a person's height impacts their risk for multiple diseases, including atrial fibrillation and varicose veins. The study also uncovered associations between greater height and a higher risk of peripheral neuropathy and skin bone infections.
A new cell therapy has been developed to target and eliminate leukemia stem cells that cause disease relapse. The treatment uses genetically engineered T cells with a chimeric antigen receptor that recognizes specific markers on these cancer cells.
A compound called ERX-41 has been shown to kill a range of hard-to-treat cancer types, including breast and ovarian cancers, by targeting a previously unexploited vulnerability. This could lead to new drugs being developed to fight these cancers, which currently have few effective treatments.
A recent genetic study found a link between height and lower risk of coronary heart disease, as well as higher risk for peripheral neuropathy and circulatory disorders. Being tall appears to protect against cardiovascular problems, but may increase the risk of non-cardiovascular conditions.
New research reveals that at least 64 million square kilometers of Earth's land area require conservation to protect terrestrial species and ecosystems. The study suggests that governments must scale up their conservation efforts to achieve more ambitious goals and policies beyond the current 30% target.
New research suggests that official vaccine mandates can motivate hesitant individuals to seek vaccination, with announcements of mandates having a significant impact on vaccination rates. The study used Canadian provinces and European countries to explore the relationship between mandates and vaccine uptake.
A new study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences found that the ecological impact of invasive species alone is comparable to its combined effect with warming temperatures, drought, or nitrogen deposition. This suggests that managing invasive species at a local level can make ecosystems more climate resilient.
Researchers used AI to compare brain images of individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder to computer-generated simulations, revealing links between brain anatomy and symptoms. The discovery could help understand ASD causes and develop targeted interventions.
A family of DNA motor proteins, condensin, has been found to create loops of DNA that form chromosomes during cell division. The protein complex achieves this feat by acting as a molecular machine, using energy from ATP to drive the process.
Scientists successfully differentiated microglia from human pluripotent stem cells, enabling them to replicate the natural retina environment. The new approach allows for a more efficient protocol to generate microglia and presents a promising toolkit for studying retinal biology and regenerative diseases.
Researchers at Karolinska Institutet found a link between genetic variants in diabetes drug targets and lower Alzheimer's disease risk. The study suggests that the target protein, KATP channel, may be a therapeutic target for treating and preventing Alzheimer's disease.
A new study from Keck Medicine of USC shows that patients with IBD are nine times more likely to develop depression than the general population, while those with depression are twice as likely to develop IBD. Siblings without either condition are also at increased risk.
An international team of researchers has observed a unique 'fruitcake' structure in an organic polymer, revealing variations in hardness at the nanoscale. This discovery could lead to the development of next-generation microelectronic and bioelectronic devices with improved flexibility and biocompatibility.
A study analyzing long-term monitoring data for 1,478 species in Finland reveals that climate change has led to shifting between 'good', 'ideal', and 'worse' parts of their climatic niches. This impacts biodiversity, with some species benefiting from warmer temperatures while others decline as conditions become too warm.
A study of over 12,000 fish across 17 species found that cannibalism is extremely rare in the wild, occurring in less than 0.30% of cases. The researchers identified population density and resource availability as key drivers of cannibalistic behavior, contradicting previous assumptions.
Satellite imagery reveals significant decline in snow cover (less than 10%) but increased plant productivity (77% above tree-line area) in the European Alps. Climate change feedbacks may accelerate snowmelt, altering albedo and releasing greenhouse gases, posing risks to fragile alpine ecosystems.
Researchers from Huntsman Cancer Institute have evaluated the impact of hundreds of different mutations on a key function of the BRCA1 protein. They found that most mutations are either benign or likely benign, while few cause disease. The study aims to improve doctors' ability to assess patients' cancer risk based on genetic testing.
Low-frequency tectonic tremors in Alaska are linked to high levels of dehydration in the Yakutat terrane, a subducting oceanic plateau. The study suggests that this dehydration reaction is caused by temperature and pressure conditions during plate subduction.
A new study from University of Minnesota Medical School suggests Fecal Microbiota Transplantation (FMT) is an optimal and cost-effective treatment option for the first recurrent Clostridioides difficile infection. The research model indicates it's effective and cost-effective when used in patients after a single episode of recurrent CDI.
The Polyphenols Applications World Congress 2022 will host a cannabis symposium in Valencia, Spain, discussing recent advances on polyphenols, their applications, and innovations. The symposium aims to evaluate the constituents of cannabis and medical cannabis, mainly cannabinoids and flavonoids.
A new neurobiological model provides a unified framework for understanding various forms of creativity, including abstract thinking, improvisation, and divergent problem-solving. The model suggests that different brain areas are activated depending on the type of creativity, with dopamine playing a crucial role in controlling and optim...
Physicians recognize benzodiazepine dependence as a significant contributor to the opioid crisis, coined a new term CPBD. Long-term treatment can lead to severe withdrawal symptoms and recurrence of underlying anxiety and insomnia.
A recent study published at the Euroanaesthesia Congress found that patients with higher body mass index (BMI) and weight prior to bariatric surgery are more likely to experience complications and have worse outcomes. The research analyzed data from over 4,000 adults who underwent weight loss surgery between 2006 and 2020, revealing a ...
A new study by McGill University and US National Cancer Institute researchers reveals that antigen strength, rather than quantity, drives T cell responses. This discovery has implications for predicting vaccine efficacy and designing more effective immunotherapies.
Satellite data reveals significant changes in Alpine ecosystems, with vegetation above tree line increasing by nearly 80% and snow cover decreasing slightly. This 'greening' trend is linked to rising temperatures and altered precipitation patterns, posing a threat to the region's unique biodiversity.
A study by MIT researchers found that sectarian identity in the Muslim world is often intertwined with local politics and shaped by social interactions. Domestic economic and political factors influence variation in sectarianism more than transnational matters do.
Researchers analyzed 156,000 children worldwide and found that spanking was associated with a 14% lower odds of physical abuse. Eliminating spanking would result in four fewer children exposed to physical abuse, according to the study.
Researchers discovered a novel mechanism by which non-coding 7S RNA regulates mitochondrial gene expression in human cells. The study found that 7S RNA inhibits transcription via mitochondrial RNA polymerase dimerization, shedding light on the molecular basis of this process.
Researchers at the Indian Institute of Science discovered that microscopic voids in lithium anodes cause dendrite formation in solid-state batteries. By adding a thin layer of refractory metals to the electrolyte surface, they delayed dendrite growth and extended battery life.
The JNM Molecular Imaging of Neurodegeneration Supplement provides an overview of molecular imaging techniques in neurodegenerative disorders. The supplement aims to improve early and differential diagnosis, as well as stratify and monitor therapy in these disorders.
Researchers have designed an iron catalyst to facilitate the olefin metathesis reaction, a widely applicable catalytic reaction for carbon-carbon double bond formation. The iron-based catalyst shows promise in reducing costs and environmental impact compared to traditional ruthenium-based catalysts.
Researchers at Texas A&M University College of Medicine have identified a crucial mechanism driving the evolution of the neocortex, leading to increased intelligence and surface area. This breakthrough understanding contributes to insights into developmental deficits linked to autism spectrum disorders and intellectual disabilities.
A WCS study tracked bottlenose dolphins' feeding behavior in the NYC-New Jersey Harbor Estuary, revealing seasonal patterns and relationships to environmental factors. The research aims to inform mitigation measures reducing human-wildlife conflict and conserving marine mammals.
Scientists have discovered that Patagonia's giant kelp forests are resilient due to frequent marine cold spells, which help regulate their environment and keep temperatures comfortable. The region has not experienced extreme marine heat waves since 1984, allowing the kelp forests to thrive for almost 200 years.
Researchers validated a liquid biopsy test as a better predictor of immunotherapy response in lung cancer patients compared to traditional tumor biopsies. The test measures the PD-L1 biomarker in blood, showing improved accuracy in predicting treatment outcomes and survival.
A new study reveals that Nor'easters produce flood levels just as severe as hurricanes, but occur much more frequently in the Mid-Atlantic region. The intense storms can cause significant damage and disruption along the coastline, with some events surpassing those from tropical cyclones.
A systematic review of 155 head and neck cancer clinical trials from 2010 to 2020 revealed that only 57% of studies reported race or ethnicity. Black and Asian or Pacific Islander patients were disproportionately underrepresented in these trials, highlighting a significant issue in the field.
Researchers at the University of Houston have identified blood biomarkers predicting heart disease in lupus patients and urine biomarkers for diagnosing kidney inflammation in children with lupus. These findings hold promise for early preventive measures and improved treatment outcomes.
New research from the University of British Columbia creates the world's first global map of mammal movement between protected areas. The study reveals that Canada has critical areas for connectivity, which are essential for maintaining biodiversity and animal populations.
Researchers found that Holocaust survivors were 40% less likely to develop post-operative delirium than age-matched non-survivors. They also had a higher risk of falls in hospital but no overall difference in other adverse outcomes.
A research group at South-Central MinZu University has achieved the largest complete photonic bandgap (CPBG) of 5.62% in a silicon nitride slab, significantly enhancing nonlinearity and enabling polarization multiplexing. The breakthrough could lead to the development of high-performance CPBG devices in SiN slabs.
Researchers used ultrahigh-field NMR spectroscopy to study the structure of Al(V) on γ-Al2O3. They found flexible structural features and hydroxyl groups that can be removed under high-temperature dehydration, leading to surface reconstruction. Most Al(V) species aggregate into domains rather than forming tetragonal pyramids.
New tools for working with axolotls, developed by Prayag Murawala, hold promise for treating traumatic injury and disease. The axolotl's ability to regenerate tissues and organs could lead to new insights into human health.
The COVID-19 pandemic has been linked to increased disparities in buprenorphine and naltrexone prescriptions for opioid use disorder among racial and ethnic minority groups. The study found that these groups experienced worsened disparities compared to white patients.
A new study from Rice University finds that Black and Hispanic veterans experienced a significant improvement in mental health after Barack Obama was elected president. The research analyzed nationally representative survey data to find two fewer poor days per month among these groups compared to white veterans.
Researchers discovered that leukemia-initiating cells in MLL-rearranged B-ALL can switch between two metabolic states, which makes them difficult to target. Targeting the quiet, stem cell-like state curbs the leukemia by forcing the cells back to an active proliferation state.
Research found that decisive people are more confident in their judgments than those who second-guess themselves. The study discovered a link between action control and post-decisional metacognitive bias, suggesting that individual differences play a crucial role in decision-making.
A research team from USTC designed a microelectromechanical system (MEMS) resonator with ultra-high Q based on lithium niobate thin film. The quality factor at parallel resonance increased by two orders of magnitude compared to previously reported acoustic resonators.
A straightforward questionnaire, called the Attentional Failure during Driving Questionnaire (AFDQ), has been developed to assess older drivers' ability to drive safely. The study found that repeated attentional challenges were a key predictor of crashes among older drivers.
A study by Kyushu University has identified biomarkers in blood samples that distinguish healthy individuals from Hikikomori patients and predict the severity of the condition. Key findings include elevated ornithine levels, lower bilirubin levels, and higher long-chain acylcarnitine levels in patients.
A research team from the University of Science and Technology of China designed a microelectromechanical system (MEMS) resonator with ultra-high Q based on lithium niobate (LiNbO3) thin film. The quality factor at parallel resonance was increased by two orders of magnitude, paving the way for designing 6G communication devices.
Great Salt Lake wetland plants can accumulate hazardous metal pollution, which can be passed up the food chain to herbivorous insects. This study found high concentrations of lead, mercury, and other metals in plant tissues, threatening terrestrial ecosystems.
Researchers found that indigenous smallholder gardens and farms in Huánuco, Peru, play a crucial role in diet and biodiversity. The study identified a positive correlation between the use of indigenous Quechua language, degree of commercialization, and agrobiodiversity.
Researchers at Cedars-Sinai have comprehensively mapped molecular activity in the brain and spinal cord that regulates body's response to central nervous system (CNS) disorders. They discovered a critical role of astrocytes, specialized support cells, in regulating outcomes for CNS disorders.
The study reveals disparities in receiving smoking cessation assistance based on regional differences, with some areas having significantly lower access. The research highlights the importance of addressing these disparities to ensure equitable healthcare for smokers.
Research reveals antibiotics can knock out essential gut bacteria, leading to reduced motivation and endurance in athletes. The study found that high-performance mice were more affected by antibiotic treatment, highlighting the microbiome's impact on exercise behaviors.
The study creates a catalogue of genomic diversity for endangered chimpanzees, allowing researchers to pinpoint the origin of confiscated animals within 100 kilometers. This information can support conservation efforts and combat the illegal trade of chimpanzees.
Researchers at Cedars-Sinai have identified a key gene, NLRP11, that plays a crucial role in the innate human immune system. Deleting this gene prevented an immune sensor from triggering an inflammatory response, highlighting its potential as a target for therapies to prevent or treat inflammatory diseases.
A Norwegian study found that vaccinated mothers had a lower incidence of SARS-CoV-2 infection in their infants within the first four months of life. The study analyzed all live births between September 2021 and February 2022 and showed a significant reduction in infections among vaccinated infants.
A new Cornell-led study reveals that more than 99% of veterinarians have encountered useless or non-beneficial veterinary care, leading to moral distress and difficulties in advocating for euthanasia. The study found that 89% of veterinarians administer futile care, with 42% experiencing frequent instances.