A study of 14 astronauts found that space travel depletes red blood cells and bone, but the body can eventually replenish them with the help of fat stored in the bone marrow. The researchers also discovered that younger astronauts may have an increased ability to harness energy from bone marrow fat.
The University of Tennessee Extension will address health disparities related to poor nutrition, physical activity, and obesity in seven rural Tennessee counties. The CDC's High Obesity Program funding aims to reduce chronic diseases by improving access to fresh foods and opportunities for physical activity.
A new nano-sized force sensor developed by Tampere University researchers allows for the measurement of intracellular forces and mechanical strains. This technology has great potential for studying cancer cells and understanding cellular mechanics.
Researchers at Huntsman Cancer Institute discovered that estrogen receptor mutations in endometrial cancers cause large changes in gene expression and cellular behavior. Inhibitors of CDK9, a protein that works with estrogen receptors, were found to be effective at reducing the growth and aggressiveness of endometrial cancer cells.
Researchers at the Weizmann Institute of Science have identified a novel immune mechanism that enables bacteria to survive on empty batteries, protecting them from viruses. This strategy has been conserved through billions of years of evolution and is also found in advanced species such as corals, bees, and fungi.
A team of scientists has developed a rigorous accounting of the neurons in the tiny brain of a humble C. elegans worm, mapping out how its brain cells encode essential behaviors such as movement and feeding. The atlas reveals the underlying logic of how the worm's brain produces a sophisticated repertoire of behaviors, even as environm...
Research published by the American Psychological Association found that individuals with a history of depression spend more time processing negative information than positive information, putting them at risk for relapse. This bias towards negative thinking may hinder effective treatment and prevention strategies.
A new study found that a simple blood test can predict the risk of progressive heart and kidney disease in people with Type 2 diabetes. The test measures levels of four biomarkers, which fell after treatment with canagliflozin, a type 2 diabetes medicine.
George Mason University's Harbir Antil received $99,948 from the National Science Foundation to support a workshop on mathematical opportunities in digital twins. The workshop aims to explore connections and synergies between mathematics, digital twins, and other disciplines.
A recent study found that around 80% of patients with erectile dysfunction (ED) have insurance coverage for penile implants, which is an evidence-based treatment option. However, some employer-sponsored health plans specifically exclude this treatment, leading to lower coverage rates and potential barriers to care.
A study published in Neurology has identified markers of Parkinson's disease in eye scans, detecting the condition up to seven years before clinical presentation. Researchers used AI-powered analysis of retinal images from two large datasets to uncover subtle changes associated with Parkinson's.
A new study found that MRI scans with prostate-specific antigen density can detect serious prostate cancers earlier, while reducing unnecessary biopsies. The REIMAGINE trial suggested that MRI could be a more reliable method of detecting potentially serious cancers early, with minimal overdiagnosis.
A new study by UC San Diego researchers shows that time-restricted feeding can improve memory and reduce amyloid protein accumulation in mice with Alzheimer's disease. This approach may provide a simple and accessible way to correct circadian disruptions, which are the leading cause of nursing home placement.
The UC Davis MIND Institute is testing the 'Early Start Denver Model' in community agencies, which addresses all areas of development and emphasizes communication and social interaction through everyday activities. The goal is to improve communication skills and daily living skills for autistic children aged 1-4.
A new study quantifies the climate benefits of enhanced weathering, applying ground-up silicate rock to Midwestern farm fields to capture significant amounts of carbon dioxide. The method reduced net carbon loss to the atmosphere by 42% in maize plots and more than doubled carbon storage in miscanthus plots.
AI is changing the way scientists discover and design drugs, predicting molecular interactions and protein folding with unprecedented speed and accuracy. AI also has the potential to safeguard nuclear reactors, synthesize novel materials, and enhance scientific understanding autonomously.
Researchers explore nucleon resonances, gaining insight into early universe's chaotic state. The experiment provides new information on the 3D structure of resonating protons and neutrons.
A new study found that fewer than a third of children have had their vision checked in the past year, with uninsured and public-insured kids having lower rates than privately insured peers. The disparity in screening rates is linked to disparities in primary care visits focused on prevention and early detection.
Public health experts recommend continuing routine mask-wearing in healthcare settings to protect vulnerable patients and staff from COVID-19. The authors argue that while severe cases have decreased, asymptomatic spread remains a threat, particularly among high-risk patients and healthcare workers who may not be aware they are infected.
A new special issue of the Journal of Huntington’s Disease highlights the critical impact of sleep dysfunction on HD patients. Disrupted sleep can alter metabolism, increase vulnerability to infection, and exacerbate disease outcomes.
Imperial researchers have imaged Piezo1 channels in human cells and organs, revealing their role in regulating blood pressure, respiration, bladder control, and the immune system. This breakthrough could lead to a better understanding of their role in fundamental physiological processes and potentially new drug targets for diseases.
A new modeling tool called REBURN can simulate large forest landscapes and wildfire dynamics under different management strategies. The tool shows that setting prescribed burns and allowing smaller wildfires to burn can yield more varied and resilient forests over time.
A study of 7,097 mother-child pairs found that excessive screen time at age 1 was associated with developmental delays in communication and problem-solving skills at ages 2 and 4. The findings suggest separate consideration of these domains in discussions on screen time and child development.
Researchers at Iowa State University have created synthetic catalysts that mimic natural enzymes to break down cellulose in plant biomass. These nanoparticle catalysts can be reused multiple times, overcoming the limitations of natural enzymes, which are expensive, unstable, and difficult to recycle.
Researchers developed a deep-learning model to assess CXR images for probable COVID-19 severity. The model achieved an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of 0.78 when predicting intensive care need within 24 hours.
A new study by Edith Cowan University has discovered zinc-air batteries as a superior alternative to lithium-ion, offering low costs, environmental benefits, and high theoretical energy density. The breakthrough redesigns the batteries using natural resources like zinc from Australia and air, enhancing their viability for sustainable e...
Researchers found that genetically modified tobacco mutants, impaired in their defenses, outperformed wild-type plants in years with low herbivore pressure. The mutants' prioritization of growth and reproduction over defense allowed them to thrive in environments with limited insect damage.
A novel method to monitor range shifts of protected organisms and expanding noxious species has been developed. By marking the average position of the 'connectivity limit' over time, researchers offer a statistically reliable approach to tracking changes in species distributions.
Researchers at St. Jude uncover how ABCG2 protein removes chemotherapies from cells, highlighting a potential path to combat drug resistance. The study identifies key amino acids responsible for this promiscuity and suggests designing inhibitors targeting these sites.
SARS-CoV-2's nucleocapsid protein (N) uses human body temperature to replicate, binding to RNA motifs at specific spatial folds. The study reveals new functions and potential targets for antiviral drugs.
Researchers found no effect of LEED certification on average energy consumption in federal buildings, with energy use just one of six attributes scored under the program. Tradeoffs between attributes, such as water scores and sensors, accounted for the lack of energy savings.
A new study from North Carolina State University found that the shape of small bones in the throat, called hyoid bones, may be key to determining whether sabertooth tigers purred or roared. The researchers compared the anatomy of modern roaring cats and purring cats to find that the missing bones in saber-toothed tigers' hyoid structur...
Astronomers have improved the accuracy of the Universe's expansion parameters, reducing uncertainty by up to 35%. This new information will help determine whether the Universe will continue expanding forever or eventually collapse in on itself.
A recent study published in JAMA Pediatrics analyzed the severity of COVID-19 in pediatric patients, finding that intensive care unit admissions decreased over time but ventilatory support remained stable in younger children under age 5.
Researchers developed a modified bandit Q-learning algorithm that aims to learn optimal Q values for every state-action pair, balancing exploitation and exploration. The scheme relies on photonic systems to enhance learning quality, accelerating parallel learning through conflict-free decision-making.
A Purdue University research team has revealed complex new details about the function of a key protein shared by mammals, including humans. The study shows that DNA methylation plays an important role in how young, unformed mammalian cells divide and develop into more specialized cells.
Acosta & Burls' project uses novel weather and climate models to predict changes in atmospheric circulation and climate in response to the Altai Mountains' size, height, and growth history. The team will measure these predictions against field and laboratory data gleaned from sediments shed from the Altai.
A team led by Laurie Schintler is conducting a study to compare perceptions of peer review decisions made by humans versus algorithms. The research aims to measure the legitimacy of both human and algorithmic decision-making processes in scientific publishing and funding outcomes.
Researchers at ETH Zurich found that Salmonella bacteria can thrive together in the gut and share information about antibiotic survival mechanisms through a metabolic strategy. This exchange of critical information enables the spread of antibiotic-resistant genes, highlighting the impact of dietary components on promoting this phenomenon.
Researchers developed a three-metal hybrid catalyst material featuring nickel, palladium, and platinum interfaces to enhance water splitting and hydrogen molecule generation. The new catalyst demonstrated significant stability and high catalytic activity, overcoming challenges of functional interferences.
A USTC study reveals the Yangshao culture period's dominant crops were broomcorn millet, foxtail millet, and rice, with millets occupying a main position in agricultural structure. Climate change may have driven this shift around 6400 years ago.
A global team of experts outlines a roadmap for creating a comprehensive and inclusive reference work on human skin cell composition. The proposed Human Skin Cell Atlas will provide a standardized framework for semi-automated mapping of patient-specific changes in skin diseases, supporting personalized medicine.
Researchers found that ethanol metabolism can produce toxic substances damaging the gut, leading to leaky gut, dysbiosis and increased cancer risk. The study aims to better understand the mechanisms of alcohol-associated bowel disease and its relationship with liver disease.
Websites selling direct-to-consumer AMH tests frequently include misleading information, potentially causing anxiety or reassurance among consumers. The study found that these claims can lead to misplaced decisions on conception or contraceptive plans, highlighting the need for accurate and transparent fertility testing.
Researchers discovered a new mechanism underlying the heat shock response in Escherichia coli. IbpA suppresses σ32 translation, regulating Hsp expression and aiding cell protection under high temperatures. This finding sheds light on bacterial adaptation to harsh environments.
The University of Arkansas has launched a revolutionary new semiconductor research and fabrication facility, enabling companies, national laboratories, and universities to develop low-volume prototypes with silicon carbide. The MUSiC facility will accelerate technological advancement and workforce development in the US.
George Mason University Assistant Professor Nora McDonald is investigating privacy ecosystems among vulnerable populations using qualitative research and participatory design. She will develop a toolkit to support healthcare providers in mitigating privacy harms for vulnerable individuals.
A Rutgers-led study found that improving prison reentry programs for highest-risk users can help reduce opioid overdose deaths in the US. Strengthening healthcare services, such as psychiatric medication and syringe services, is crucial to engage individuals in opioid use treatment after release.
University of Wisconsin-Madison researchers have developed a new approach to manufacturing ingredients for pharmaceuticals by combining hydrogen with electricity. This process is more sustainable than traditional methods, which use large quantities of zinc metal, generating environmentally unfriendly waste.
A genetic study of 44,396 British people of Bangladeshi and Pakistani ancestry found that 57% have a genetic variant that renders clopidogrel ineffective in preventing recurrent heart attacks. People with two loss of function variants were more than three times more likely to experience recurrent heart attacks due to treatment failure.
A new study published in the Journal of Safety Research found that drivers' takeover performance worsened with increasing levels of mental workload from activities such as working, watching videos, or taking a break. The study highlights the need for regulation to ensure driverless cars are safe, particularly for inexperienced drivers.
Researchers at the University of Minnesota Medical School have made a breakthrough in treating Hurler syndrome using gene therapy. The new approach produced normal enzymes from the liver that were able to sustain normal connections within specific neural networks, restoring brain connectivity.
A new study published in BMJ Oncology has found that relatively short-term use of immunosuppressant medications to control inflammatory diseases is not associated with an increased risk of developing cancer. The research included over 10,000 participants and tracked their cancer incidence for an average of 10 years.
A pilot study led by George Mason University's Michael Bloom explores the impact of PFAS on weight loss in Hispanic children participating in a community-based weight loss intervention. The research aims to quantify associations between PFAS exposure and weight lost, as well as clinical biomarkers.
A new study developed a natural language processing system to extract social risk factors, such as financial instability and housing insecurity, from clinical notes. The system showed excellent performance when ported to a new health system and tested on over six million clinical notes.
Researchers develop a new model predicting up to twice the original amount of subglacial water may be draining into the ocean, accelerating glacial melt and sea level rise. The theory uses satellite measurements and is a simple equation that can predict exfiltration in a fraction of a second on a laptop.
Researchers have discovered clues about Antarctica's ice sheet formation in Mississippi mud, suggesting a 300,000-year brake on climate cooling. The study provides new insights into the Eocene-Oligocene transition, a significant climate event that had a major impact on Earth's history.
A study of veterans found no significant increase in mortality among those who survived COVID-19 for at least 180 days compared to risk-matched comparators. Despite worse overall mortality, the findings suggest a reassuring picture for those who have recovered from COVID-19.
Researchers developed a bio-based antibacterial agent and aromatic monomer called methacrylated vanillin (MV), imparting antibacterial properties to leather coatings. The addition of MXene nanosheets enhances the coating's thermal stability, air permeability, water vapor permeability, and antibacterial efficacy.
Researchers from Sophia University found that melatonin and its derivatives, such as ramelteon and N1-acetyl-5-methoxyquinuramine, facilitate the formation of long-term memory in male mice. The study suggests that melatonin modulates the phosphorylation levels of key proteins involved in long-term memory formation.
Researchers developed a water harvester device that harnesses atmospheric water vapor using metal-organic frameworks and ambient sunlight. The device successfully collected up to 285g of water per kilogram of MOF in extreme environments, showcasing its potential for universal applicability.
Researchers at Lund University have successfully developed temporary, organic electrodes that can be seamlessly integrated into biological systems. This breakthrough enables the possibility of bioelectronics being implanted in and removed from the body without surgery.
A new study led by Wayne State University aims to discover gene-heavy metal interactions in human livers that contribute to nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). The research, funded by the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, will investigate how naturally accumulated metals interact with the liver genome.
Researchers from Zhejiang University discovered that Polygonatum sibiricum is devoid of noticeable starch, with approximately 30% of its dry rhizome consisting of fructo-oligosaccharides. These findings could revolutionize the understanding of Polygonatum's nutritional value and product development.
New research suggests NFL's Rooney Rule has limited impact due to biases in lower-level hiring and promotion. A recent study found persistent racial disparity in lower-level coaching positions, highlighting the need for equal rewards at early stages of careers.
Researchers from the University of Kansas have created a powerful dataset to facilitate drug development against gram-negative bacteria. The dataset reveals over 270,000 previously unidentified outer-membrane proteins with potential as vaccine targets.
A new study finds SARS-CoV-2 infection significantly associated with development of high blood pressure in hospitalized adults. Persistent high blood pressure was more common in people with COVID-19 than influenza, highlighting potential long-term cardiovascular risk.
A study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences found that explaining structural causes of inequality can diminish biased views in children. Researchers discovered that when children are told the high-status group created the rules, they report lower levels of bias and perceive the status hierarchy as less fair.
Researchers report the discovery of a hot Jupiter-like object orbiting a nearby star, offering insights into extreme planetary and stellar evolution. The binary system's brown dwarf component reveals temperature differences of up to 6,000 degrees between its dayside and nightside hemispheres.
Researchers have identified a neoplastic fusion transcript RAD51AP1-DYRK4 in luminal B breast cancer, associated with higher ki67 expression and aggressive clinical characteristics. MEK inhibitor trametinib may be effective in blocking the MEK-ERK signaling driven by this fusion.
Cancer patients undergoing certain treatments are at higher risk of COVID-19 infection, but boosting can significantly reduce this risk. Boosting every three months cuts the risk in half, according to a study published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute.
Researchers have found that a genetic risk factor for schizophrenia, 3q29 deletion syndrome, impairs mitochondrial function in brain cells. This impairment contributes to the development of schizophrenia and has implications for understanding the neurobiology of the disease.
A study led by University College London researchers analyzed 393 wasp samples collected from citizen scientists and found a single population of the Common Wasp (Vespula vulgaris) across Britain. The findings demonstrate the wasp's ability to disperse itself widely, contributing to its success in human-modified environments.
Researchers developed a minimally invasive microneedle platform capable of detecting protein biomarkers in response to immunotherapy against melanoma. The approach integrates with ultra-sensitive single-molecule detection and shows promise for effective drug screening and patient stratification.
Neuroscientists found that adversities permanently alter brain structure and function, increasing the risk of psychiatric disorders. An aberrant reaction to adversities is related to anxiety symptoms, with potential predictive value for disorder development.
Assistant Professor Jinwei Ye at George Mason University has been awarded a $600,000 NSF CAREER Award to develop polarization-based vision systems for autonomous navigation and smart manufacturing. The project aims to improve machine vision systems' capability in geometric and semantic scene understanding.
A new study projects nearly 1 billion people will be living with osteoarthritis, the most common form of arthritis, by 2050. Currently, 15% of individuals aged 30 and older experience osteoarthritis, with obesity being a major risk factor.
Researchers found that endogenous retroviruses, naturally present in the human genome, can influence the spread of tau aggregates between cells. This suggests that viral proteins could be potential targets for therapies to stop or slow neurodegeneration.
Researchers have found a 20,000-year-old refugium for orcas in the northern Pacific, where pods settled during the last ice age. Genetic analysis reveals high diversity among these orcas, suggesting they may not fit neatly into one species.
Researchers at Stevens Institute of Technology use a 350-year-old mechanical theorem to explain complex behaviors of light waves, showing a direct relationship between entanglement and polarization. This connection enables the deduction of hard-to-measure optical properties from simpler light intensity measurements.