Scientists successfully revive motor neurons in laboratory experiments, showing promise for ALS treatment. The method uses magnetic field pulses to improve nerve function and transport, with healthy cells remaining unchanged.
A new study found that people's pronunciation of certain words changes after hearing a southern-accented talker, even if they didn't hear the actual sound. Participants who had never lived in the U.S. south still converged on a southern-like pronunciation, suggesting that expectations about accents shape our speech.
Researchers have developed a process to replicate what happens inside the heart after cardiac arrest using lab-grown pig heart tissue, which includes epicardial slices and underlying heart muscle. This new process could lead to better health outcomes for humans and reduce the reliance on animal experiments in cardiovascular science.
New research highlights the issue of gender blindness in recognizing sexism. Studies found that men who are rude to both men and women are viewed as 'gender blind', making it difficult to acknowledge sexist behavior. This can lead to perpetrators using rudeness as a defense against accusations of sexism.
The placenta plays an active role in transferring vitamin D to the fetus during pregnancy, according to a new study. The research found that the placenta takes up vitamin D through endocytosis, which enables it to deliver this essential nutrient to the developing fetus.
Research suggests that changes in the microbiome may play a role in both the development and progression of pancreatic cancer. A distinct gut microbial profile was observed in patients with ductal pancreatic cancer compared to those without the disease, and this signature consistently identified patients regardless of disease stage.
A new study found that hospital-affiliated emergency physicians prescribed antibiotics to patients with acute respiratory infections nearly twice as often as contractor-supplied physicians. This disparity highlights the need for improved antibiotic stewardship in telemedicine settings.
A study of 1,164 patients with COVID-19 found that continuing dexamethasone treatment at hospital discharge was associated with lower readmission rates and mortality within 14 days. The treatment also showed significant benefits in reducing the risk of severe disease progression.
A new study from Karolinska Institutet projects that a temperature rise of 2 degrees Celsius will increase hyponatremia hospitalizations by almost 14%. Women and elderly are particularly vulnerable to the increased risk, with those over 80 years old facing a 15 times higher chance of hospitalization during heat waves.
Researchers used microrobots to demonstrate how a swarm of animals can complete an optimum flight response even if individual animals do not notice the threat or they react incorrectly. The study suggests that missing information from individual members can be compensated by other members, which may explain why animals organize themsel...
Researchers have identified a genetic signature of 27 microorganisms in stool samples that can predict the risk of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma and diagnose patients with earlier stages of the disease. This breakthrough could lead to an effective, non-invasive way to detect pancreatic cancer early.
A new analysis by University of Copenhagen researchers found that a Nordic diet has positive health benefits regardless of weight loss. The diet's unique fat composition, high in omega-3 and omega-6 unsaturated fats, plays a significant role in lowering blood sugar and cholesterol levels.
A new study reveals that global warming is responsible for half of the changes in key physical and behavioral traits of European birds since the 1960s. Non-climate environmental factors also contribute to these changes, with their effects often compounding those of climate change.
Ancient artworks from Minoan civilization of ancient Greece depict domesticated saffron, suggesting cultivation around 1600 BCE. Genetic studies support this origin, placing the modern saffron crocus with its three genomes as a result of natural selection in Bronze Age Greece.
Researchers say the challenges of treating long COVID are amplified by a critical issue: we do not know what constitutes long COVID or how to formally diagnose it. The lack of standardization in diagnosis and treatment is further exacerbated by limited research data of varying quality and consistency.
Researchers detected dimethyl ether, the largest molecule identified in a planet-forming disc, using ALMA in Chile. The discovery suggests that complex molecules like dimethyl ether are available to feed forming planets, shedding light on the origin of life.
Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center have discovered a single protein that can reprogram mature astrocytes into stem-like cells capable of producing neurons and other cell types. This breakthrough may lead to new ways to treat brain injuries, strokes, and degenerative conditions such as Huntington’s disease.
A team of researchers developed a novel method for producing optically active hydroxy β-lactam derivatives using baker's yeast and microwave irradiation. The process yielded 3:1 ratio of two hydroxyl compounds in 65% yield, with the resulting compounds showing high optical purity.
A new study published in BMJ Evidence-Based Medicine found that vaccines are most effective when distributed in areas with the highest baseline risks. The researchers used absolute risk reduction to guide the equitable distribution of COVID-19 vaccines, prioritizing counties and states with lower numbers needed to vaccinate (NNV).
A study published in eLife reveals that cancer cells undergoing confined migration become more resistant to anoikis and exhibit increased invasiveness. This process may boost survival in cancer cells and make them more prone to forming deadly metastases.
Researchers at KAUST developed a multilayered perovskite-based film that shields high-performance solar cells from extreme heat and moisture while boosting their long-term stability. The 2D perovskite capping layer improves the resistance of unsealed devices against thermal stress and moisture.
A recent study found that self-administered screening using a tablet device detected twice as many people with depression, fall risk, or intimate partner violence compared to usual in-person screening. The study suggests that this method provides more privacy for patients and accurate health information.
Research from the University of Georgia shows that physical activity can improve cognitive function and brain networks in older adults. Regular movement can help maintain executive function and independence as people age.
Scientists discovered that animals likely evolved asymmetric gaits 472 million years ago, with evidence of crutching and bounding in ancient fish and crocodiles. The study suggests that many modern species have lost this ability due to evolution or size constraints.
A new study found significant associations between student discomfort and being weighed by physical education teachers compared to school nurses. Student dissatisfaction with their weight and perceived overweight status were linked to increased discomfort with the weight measurement process.
A study found that severe COVID-19 infections in older adults increased the risk of cognitive decline. Researchers in Wuhan, China analyzed data from discharged patients aged 60 and above, revealing a significant association between SARS-CoV-2 infection severity and cognitive changes.
A study at the University of Bonn found that stressed mice develop motor deficits and lose synapses, which may be useful for earlier diagnosis and therapy. The results also suggest that psychological stress can leave permanent traces on the brain.
A pooled data analysis of 18 studies found that shift workers performed significantly worse than non-shift workers in five cognitive outcomes. The results suggest that shift work may increase the risk of workplace injuries and errors due to impaired brain function, particularly in impulse control and situational response.
A recent study by City of Hope researchers highlights the limitations of Signatera, a popular liquid biopsy test for detecting colorectal cancer recurrence. The study found that standard-of-care CT scan plus CEA blood draw test was more effective in identifying early disease recurrence.
Researchers have discovered a mechanism to increase the effectiveness of base excision repair (BER), a pathway involved in repairing damaged DNA. By capturing polymerase beta at a precise point in the cell life cycle, the enzyme creates new genetic material 17 times faster, suggesting an interlocked function between its two roles.
A study by Concordia researchers found that women are disproportionately affected by job losses and automation due to COVID-19. The authors argue that companies must prioritize inclusivity measures to avoid reversing progress made towards gender equality in the workplace.
Researchers at Michigan Medicine found that a medium-chain fatty acid called octanoic acid can reduce further injury and improve heart function after a heart attack. This discovery could lead to the development of a new therapy to treat heart attacks, targeting the interplay between energy metabolism and epigenetics.
Researchers found that stress, anxiety, and worries about health consequences contribute to sleep issues among essential occupation workers. The study suggests that implementing measures promoting health and well-being can prevent future illness and sick leave.
Researchers found that alpha oscillations are involved in two distinct processes: one related to observation accuracy and the other to internal representation of sensory events. Increasing or decreasing alpha speed and amplitude can independently modulate perception accuracy.
A team of student researchers from John Jay College of Criminal Justice has discovered at least three families of human microRNA genes not shared with any other primate species on chromosome 21. These genes may have played a significant role in the unique evolution of the human species.
Researchers found variations in carbon isotopes in younger kimberlites, suggesting the Cambrian Explosion affected the Earth's lower mantle. The study suggests that changes in marine sediments leave profound traces on the Earth's interior.
Researchers developed a digital pen tool to measure cognitive function, identifying novel markers of dementia. The study found associations between digital metrics and cognitive functions like processing speed and physical abilities.
A team of Heidelberg University researchers identified epigenetic factor HDAC4 and organic anion transporter OAT1 as key players in chronic pain development. Their findings revealed that altering gene expression regulates pain processing and sensitivity.
Researchers demonstrate that ultrasound treatment opens the blood-brain barrier exclusively under the ultrasound beam, suggesting a promising solution for targeted drug delivery to the central nervous system. The use of a biocompatible polyolefin plate allows for reversible disruption of the barrier.
Researchers have expanded knowledge of hematite's magnetic and color properties to better understand past climates and environments. Hematite's presence on Mars may provide clues about climatic variations, water presence, and potentially life.
Researchers have developed an ultrasonic retinal prosthesis that can stimulate the blind retina to transmit signals to the brain, providing a promising solution for vision restoration. The device uses ultrasound waves to activate small groups of neurons in the eye, similar to how light signals activate a normal eye.
A new study reveals that genes inherited from moms and dads play distinct roles in shaping behavior, with certain cells relying on the mother's copy of a gene to produce essential neurotransmitters. This discovery has implications for understanding how parental genetics may influence behavior and related health conditions.
A team of researchers proposes converting discarded surgical masks into a burnable fuel through pyrolysis, yielding a carbon-rich oil with high heating value. The study suggests this method offers better environmental performance compared to conventional waste management approaches.
For the first time, researchers have imaged the full structure of trapped excitons, a breakthrough that could lead to new semiconductor technologies. The study reveals detailed insights into the behavior of excitons, including their size, motion, and stability.
A landmark study published in JAMA reveals that hurricanes and tropical cyclones in the US are associated with increased deaths from various causes, including injuries, infectious diseases, and cardiovascular conditions. The study analyzed 33.6 million death records and found a significant increase in mortality rates after tropical cyc...
A new study provides evidence of growth limitations in Antarctic fish, which have adapted to survive in freezing temperatures. Despite similar ecological conditions, these fish consume less food and grow at half the rate of temperate water cousins when held at the same temperature.
Aging egg cells accumulate damage to genetic material, preventing maturation and fertilization. Researchers have identified a key process causing this damage and found that anti-viral drugs can reverse it.
Researchers have developed a new approach to micro-computed tomography using phase contrast and high-brilliance x-ray radiation, enabling detailed analysis of microstructures and broad applications in medicine, biology, and material sciences.
Researchers found that Monte Albán's defenseable hilltop location and collective form of government attracted people to the settlement. The study challenges the idea that fertile land was a primary factor in its foundation.
Researchers discovered that pain neuron-derived peptide Reg3gamma suppresses microglial IDO1, a key enzyme of the kynurenine pathway, and enhances brain ATP production. This discovery provides novel insights into understanding tolerance to endotoxic death.
A study involving 6,500 participants found a significant association between higher childhood body mass index and increased risk of premenstrual disorders. Young adults with higher childhood BMI experienced greater levels of premenstrual symptoms.
A study in Botswana found that HIV transmission occurs primarily within and between same-age communities, rather than between distant communities. Community-based HIV testing and treatment can effectively curb the spread of the disease if targeted at high-risk populations.
A meta-analysis of over 3,000 studies found that women with one ovary have a 30% lower chance of becoming pregnant and giving birth after IVF. The study suggests that surgical removal of an ovary has an adverse effect on fertility.
Despite an overall decline in stillbirth rates across the UK, black and South Asian communities continue to experience higher rates of stillbirths compared to the rest of the population. Placental issues and birth defects are key causes of stillbirths in these groups, but the underlying cause remains unknown in more than half of cases.
Stimulating the RNA receptor RIG-I improves protection against lethal SARS-CoV-2 infections, reducing disease progression and severe cases. The study's findings suggest a promising approach for treating COVID-19.
The NICER telescope has observed the merging of multimillion-degree X-ray spots on the surface of a magnetar, providing new insights into their behavior. The observations suggest that the crust of a neutron star can become partially molten under magnetic stress, leading to changes in pulse shape and hot spot migration.
Researchers at Moffitt Cancer Center have developed patient-derived cells that can be used to study leptomeningeal disease, a rare complication of cancer. The cells provide a new opportunity for scientists to understand the disease and identify potential therapeutics.
Researchers developed a two-wavelength holographic system to measure the topography of metal melt pools during laser beam melting. The system successfully captured 3D shape dynamics, including key-hole regime instabilities and oscillations between modes.
A new species of vampyropod cephalopod has been discovered in a 328-million-year-old fossil, providing evidence that the common ancestor of octopuses and vampire squids had 10 arms. The find pushes back the age of Vampyropoda by nearly 82 million years.
A new study suggests that maintaining face mask use for two to 10 weeks beyond reaching vaccination coverage thresholds of 70-90% fully vaccinated could prevent a substantial number of cases, hospitalizations, and deaths, while saving businesses and taxpayers money. The study found that this could save $2.9 billion in direct medical co...