An interdisciplinary team of researchers found that tight junction proteins form a liquid-like material on the cell surface, gradually growing into a belt around the cells. This process, called membrane prewetting by condensates, promotes tight-junction belt formation and makes tissues airtight.
Research highlights key factors for governance of green school playgrounds, including genuine collaboration, inclusive participation, involving committed architects and landscape designers. Studies show that such environments facilitate outdoor learning, creative play, and improve children's concentration and stress management.
A new study found significant intake inadequacies for nearly all evaluated micronutrients, with iodine and vitamin E deficiencies being the most prevalent. The researchers estimated inadequate intakes were higher for women than men in some countries, highlighting a need for targeted dietary interventions.
Scientists have discovered that immune cells migrate to the nasal conchae after vaccination or infection, secreting antibodies locally into the nasal cavity. This finding could lead to more effective nasal vaccinations and new treatments for autoimmune diseases.
A new chemical process can vaporize plastics, reducing waste and creating hydrocarbon building blocks for new plastics. The catalytic process efficiently degrades a mix of post-consumer plastic waste, bringing closer a circular economy for many throwaway plastics.
Scientists have successfully upgraded their atomic force microscope to retrieve imaging data with the time and spatial resolution needed to obtain 3D structure images that provide direct evidence of a hydration layer forming during the dissolution of calcite. The new upgrade enabled researchers to capture high-quality 3D-SFM images in ...
A machine-learning tool can effectively and efficiently subtype pathology samples from patients with RA. This may help scientists find ways to improve care for the complex condition by distinguishing between three subtypes of RA. The tool has also yielded new insights into treatment effects in mice, such as reduced cartilage degradation.
Two studies reveal key proteins involved in micronuclear collapse, including p62 and CHMP7, which can serve as prognostic markers and therapeutic targets for high-CIN tumors. Oxidative damage from ROS triggers the process, causing chromosomal instability and DNA damage that fuels cancer progression.
A growing global understanding of drought's impacts, but significant gaps remain in affected communities and developing countries. Long-lasting droughts heighten awareness, while economic factors influence responsiveness to the issue.
Researchers developed a new tool to track immune health patterns over time, revealing how checkpoint inhibitor therapies work together to recruit new T cells. The study found that the combination therapy produces waves of new T cells with each dose, rather than continually strengthening existing ones.
A study analyzed news reports on scientific evidence, sources of authority, and limitations for three unproven therapeutics. It found that experts' opinions were often cited over scientific publications, and non-experts made claims about safety and efficacy.
Researchers have shown that repeated administration of lipid nanoparticle-encapsulated mRNA therapy significantly extended survival and reduced serum leucine levels in a mouse model of maple syrup urine disease. The treatment approach may represent a potential long-term universal treatment for MSUD.
Research at the University of Tsukuba found high vertebral instability and diffuse low-signal changes in T2-weighted MRI observations to be risk factors for deteriorated ambulation status following different conservative treatments. These findings could help predict whether a patient's ability to walk will be affected by these treatments.
The study found significant geographic variations in concussion diagnoses in US emergency departments, with a higher frequency of diagnoses in the South due to high population density. The researchers highlight the need for tailored public health strategies to address these variations effectively.
A new model developed by scientists can predict intense, localized heavy rainfall events caused by rapid air rises in clouds. This breakthrough offers potential to improve public safety and preparedness through early warning systems.
A new study found that climate change is shifting the regions suitable for growing crops, putting pressure on timber production. As the land needed for producing vital resources becomes scarce, researchers warn of a looming issue that could lead to increased competition and conflict between agriculture and forestry.
Scientists at NIST have created tiny lasers that generate light at yellow and green wavelengths, filling a long-standing gap in the visible-light spectrum. The new technology has potential applications in underwater communications, medical treatments, and quantum computing.
Researchers led by Prof. Michael Brand successfully regenerated photoreceptors in zebrafish, demonstrating they regain their normal function and allowing the fish to recover complete vision. This breakthrough could potentially revolutionize treatment of diseases like retinitis pigmentosa or macular degeneration.
Tregs modulate inflammation to facilitate repair and promote bone formation, enabling improved healing outcomes. The study highlights the potential of targeting immune responses to enhance tissue repair and recovery in fractures.
Entomology professor Esther Ngumbi is studying how flooded conditions affect tomato plants, including changes in microbial community, volatile organic compounds, and gene expression. She warns that increased flooding can undermine climate-resilient crop research.
Scientists at Aalto University and Institute of Physics CAS built an artificial quantum material with topological quantum magnetism, featuring a new state of matter. The researchers demonstrated the highest-order topological quantum magnet, which could provide substantial protection against decoherence in quantum technology.
Researchers at Universiteit van Amsterdam created a PFAS-free synthesis route for pharmaceutical and agrochemical compounds using a trifluoromethyl group attached to sulfur, nitrogen, or oxygen atoms. The method avoids the use of PFAS reagents, offering an environmentally friendly alternative.
The study used spatial transcriptomics and machine learning to analyze gene expression and cell distribution in PanINs, identifying key features of pancreatic cancer progression. Key findings include increased cell proliferation and decreased inflammatory signaling in high-grade PanIN lesions.
Researchers used genetic method Mendelian randomization to show high levels of fasting insulin cause reduction in Lp(a), rather than the other way around. Low Lp(a) is unlikely to be a risk factor for type 2 diabetes, independent of pre-existing hyperinsulinaemia and insulin resistance.
Postmenopausal women who received hormone therapy were biologically younger than those who did not, with a stronger association observed in low-income individuals. The study suggests that promoting hormone therapy could be essential for healthy aging and reducing mortality rates.
A study published in Nature Medicine found that countries with greater inequalities have older brain ages due to environmental factors like pollution and socioeconomic disparities. Participants from diverse geographical populations showed varying levels of brain age gaps, particularly those with dementia.
Scientists have created a new chemical probe to visualize the distribution of sphingomyelin and its degradation by sphingomyelinase during infections. The researchers observed increased metabolization of sphingomyelin molecules during Chlamydia infection, paving the way for targeted strategies against infectious diseases.
A recent study found that human-made secondary organic aerosols (SOAs) contribute up to 53% of total SOA levels today, a significant increase from preindustrial times. This dramatic change is crucial to understanding the environmental impact of human activities on air quality and climate change.
Researchers at Queen Mary University of London have identified a neurohormone responsible for triggering arm detachment in starfish. The team's discovery sheds light on the complex interplay of neurohormones and tissues involved in autotomy, a well-known survival strategy in the animal kingdom.
A study published in Science Signaling explains the mechanism behind persistent pain related to obstructive sleep apnea. The researchers created a chronic intermittent hypoxia environment in mice and observed an increase in cytokines, which cause sensitivity in nociceptors producing prolonged pain sensitivity.
Researchers developed a cylindrical model called REMM to replicate both inner diameters and chemical properties of ribosome tunnels. The model outperformed a conventional carbon nanotube model in accurately reproducing experimentally observed protein structures.
Researchers discovered a non-virulent bacterium, Mycobacterium spongiae, that shares 80% of its genetic material with M. tuberculosis, shedding light on the disease's origins. The study provides valuable insights into the evolution and virulence of TB.
Researchers have developed a smart leaky-wave antenna system based on spoof surface plasmon polaritons that offers flexible control, wide frequency band and high gain. The system can automatically switch between radiation and non-radiation states and track moving targets in real-time.
Monthly gamblers in Massachusetts report increased gambling intensity and harms, as well as negative attitudes towards gambling. The proportion of those experiencing problem gambling jumps to 25.6% from 12.7% in 2014.
A researcher at UC Berkeley has discovered that fungi can transform indigestible plant material into digestible, nutritious food in about 36 hours. The Neurospora fungus is being used to create tasty morsels from food waste, including grain covered with orange Neurospora and moldy bread.
Researchers successfully observe and identify the reactive electron species for photocatalytic hydrogen evolution on metal-loaded oxides, shifting the paradigm on the traditionally believed role of metal cocatalysts. The electrons shallowly trapped in the in-gap states contribute to enhancing the hydrogen evolution rate.
The NEC Society has marked its 10th anniversary by highlighting key achievements in understanding and combating the disease. Over the past decade, the organization has built an empowered community dedicated to transforming pain into power and isolation into collaboration.
Researchers developed a wearable smart mask that captures and analyzes exhaled breath condensate for continuous monitoring of respiratory health conditions. The device offers high accuracy and real-time data transmission via Bluetooth, providing a promising solution for future clinical studies.
The globular springtail's jumping prowess is a unique and spectacular display of agility and speed. By using its furca appendage to launch itself into the air, it can achieve incredible backflips, reaching speeds of up to 368 rotations per second and distances of over 60 times its own height.
The Human AugmentatioN via Dexterity (HAND) center aims to develop robots capable of enhancing human labor through engineered systems of dexterous robotic hands, AI-powered fine motor skills, and human interface. The center's goal is to make robotic assistance accessible and applicable to a wide range of physical actions.
A recent case report presents a comprehensive diagnosis of Idiopathic Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus (iNPH) using advanced diagnostic techniques, including brain imaging, CSF tap tests, and infusion study. The study's results show significant improvements in patient outcomes and reduced clinical costs.
Researchers at Tecnolat have identified three Lactobacillus strains with probiotic properties, safe for consumption, and beneficial to human health. These strains can also enhance the sensory diversity and microbiological quality of traditional Brazilian cheeses.
Researchers identified genes associated with a thinner cortex and smaller cerebellum, which can lead to uncontrollable shaking of hands. The study also found that faulty protein disposal affects cell function and disrupts neural pathways, making it difficult to treat the condition.
Researchers discovered a bacterial defense strategy involving two proteins that team up to disable plasmids, which could be applied to gene editing. Guide DNA and a functional protein are key components of this system, showing promise for targeted genome editing.
Researchers found that 72% of the AMOC's lower limb is composed of Atlantic waters, highlighting the critical role of Atlantic-Arctic mixing. This process contributes to the AMOC's strength and helps regulate Earth's climate.
Scientists have discovered over 50,000 unusual DNA structures called i-motifs in the human genome, which are concentrated in key functional areas and may play a role in regulating gene activity. This finding offers new possibilities for diagnostic and therapeutic approaches to diseases such as cancer.
Residing in persistently impoverished neighborhoods is associated with poor breast cancer outcomes, including increased mortality. The study found that women from low-income areas had poorer tumor characteristics compared to those from higher-income areas.
Researchers at New Jersey Institute of Technology are working on a new fault detection technology that can handle the unique challenges of solar and wind-powered grids. The project aims to create a perturbation-based signal for the circuit to recognize, enabling more accurate detection of faults in these systems.
A recent study demonstrates MSC-mediated mitochondrial transfer restores mtDNA and improves mitochondrial function in LHON-derived neural progenitor cells. The research offers a promising therapeutic strategy for mitochondrial diseases.
A new study maps the human small intestine's activity areas, revealing effective nutrient absorption and protection against infection. The research also sheds light on slow-release fats and iron regulation in the body.
Researchers at Osaka Metropolitan University found compounds in nucleic acids from salmon DNA and torula yeast RNA inhibit cancer cell growth. These compounds may prevent cancer by stopping cell replication.
Scientists have created a way to lessen smoke taint in wine by adding molecularly imprinted polymers during or after fermentation. The technique selectively removes undesirable volatile compounds while preserving desirable constituents.
A previously unstudied ancient gene called 'waist-less' is required for the development of a spider's narrow waist, according to researchers. The discovery sheds light on the formation of the distinctive body plan in spiders and highlights the function of new genes in ancient groups of animals.
A new study found that people with cochlear implants use the same three word-recognition dimensions as normal hearing people: Wait and See, Sustained Activation, and Slow Activation. These dimensions help explain how people recognize words, even with different ways of hearing.
Researchers have introduced a novel particle encoding mechanism that addresses longstanding issues in particle identification, enabling precise digital representation of complex particles. This new method is adaptable for future discoveries and has the potential to unlock new frontiers in particle physics.
A new four-year, $459,000 grant will develop software and hardware tools to increase accessibility in STEM fields for persons with disabilities. The project aims to enhance data technologies for blind and low-vision users, making it easier for them to participate in STEM research and education.
Research finds that climate change can promote Salmonella survival and internalization in romaine lettuce, making it a significant food safety issue. Climate change is predicted to increase humid periods, enhancing the ability of Salmonella to grow rapidly in lettuce.
A pioneering technique for producing large-scale graphene current collectors has been developed to significantly enhance the safety and performance of lithium-ion batteries. The new process allows for the production of graphene foils with customizable thicknesses, which could lead to even more efficient and safer batteries.
A subset of CD4 T cells create an anti-inflammatory environment within the lung tissue, protecting against TB reinfection by limiting bacterial growth and disease severity. The discovery complements previous research on protective immune T cells in controlling TB infection, suggesting a potential key to improving existing vaccines.
Researchers from NUS successfully simulated higher-order topological lattices with unprecedented accuracy, unlocking new potential in quantum computers. The study enables the exploration of high-dimensional topological materials and their unique properties.