Researchers developed a potent and well-tolerated BACE1 inhibitor, verubecestat, which safely reduced toxic β-amyloid levels in AD patients. The drug has shown promise in clearing amyloid plaques and is currently advancing to phase 3 trials.
Researchers found that removing aging macrophages from atherosclerosis-prone mice reduced plaque buildup by 60%, suggesting a potential cellular target for therapy. The study also showed that suppressing senescence limited disease progression and reduced markers of plaque instability.
A new whole-genome analysis reveals that chimpanzees and bonobos had a historical genetic flow, which sheds light on processes that may have played a recurring role in great ape evolution. The study found evidence of gene flow between the two species between 200-550 thousand years ago.
A new study suggests that global warming above 1.5°Celsius will drastically transform Mediterranean ecosystems, producing species never seen before in the past 10,000 years. The region's biodiversity and services, including clean water and carbon storage, are critical to human well-being.
Two studies based on GRAIL data provide clearer pictures of the Orientale impact basin, one of the largest and youngest craters on the Moon. The studies reveal that the transient crater has a smaller diameter than previously thought and estimate a minimum amount of material redistributed from the lunar crust during the impact.
A new study explores the neural decoding of touch intensity in amputee patients, revealing that activation charge rate controls perceived sensation magnitude. This finding could lead to improved artificial touch in next-generation neuroprosthetics.
The discovery of Qilinyu, a fossilized placoderm with a three-part complex jaw, confirms the evolution of this trait within the placoderm system. The findings suggest that the emergence of jaws in vertebrates marked a significant turning point in early vertebrate evolution.
A new modeling framework allows scientists to study the impact of certainty on individual beliefs, shedding light on why people reject scientific consensus. The research reveals that underlying beliefs can influence interpersonal networks and shape views on controversial topics.
A new study reveals that temperature-induced increases in cell division are the primary driver of phytoplankton blooms. The analysis of nearly 13 years of data from an in situ device found a direct correlation between temperature and cell division rates, with losses due to viruses and predators following closely behind.
Researchers identified amino acid valine as crucial for hematopoietic stem cell maintenance. A valine-free diet with gradual reintroduction led to successful long-term engraftment of healthy donor cells in mice.
A new investigation finds that vitamin supplements can slow muscle wasting by boosting NAD+ levels in mice. The study supports the potential benefits of NAD+ precursors for patients with muscular dystrophy and other muscle disorders.
Researchers analyzed viral samples and wild bird migration patterns to understand the spread of H5N8 avian influenza. The study found two main migration routes for the virus, suggesting direct or indirect contact with infected birds as likely transmission methods.
Scientists have discovered silicate glass spherules at the Paleocene-Eocene boundary that suggest a comet impact occurred during this time period. The results provide direct evidence for an extraterrestrial impact on Earth, which may have contributed to the observed global warming event.
Researchers have found that coupling an antibody with standard-of-care antiretroviral treatment reduces virus levels and reverses immune system damage in SIV-infected rhesus macaques. The dual therapy maintains undetectable virus levels for over nine months after ART withdrawal.
A global assessment of forests reveals a 10% decrease in tree species richness leads to a 2-3% decline in biomass production. The study estimates the value of biodiversity in maintaining commercial productivity at $166-490 billion, far exceeding conservation costs.
A brain implant has restored touch in a paralyzed man's hand, allowing him to sense sensations like warmth and pressure from his fingers. The study suggests that electrical brain stimulation can reestablish realistic touch in paralyzed patients, guiding the design of better neuroprosthetic limbs.
Researchers discovered a population of previously unrecognized young neurons that migrate in the human brain during the first few months of life. These neurons contribute to inhibitory circuits, balancing excitatory activity, and are associated with the plasticity of the brain observed during postnatal development.
A randomized controlled trial involving over 300 informal health care providers in West Bengal found that training increased correct case management for ailments like angina, diarrhea, and asthma. However, the training did not significantly affect drug prescribing behavior, including antibiotic overprescription.
Researchers calculate basin-wide measurements of dissolved organic sulfur in the East Atlantic and Southern Ocean, finding it to be the largest oceanic reservoir of organic sulfur. The discovery challenges current understanding and suggests active involvement in the microbial loop, similar to organic nitrogen.
New ape study demonstrates nonhuman primates can recognize others' beliefs, desires, and intentions, a phenomenon called Theory of Mind (ToM), previously thought to be exclusive to humans. Apes correctly anticipated that humans would search for an object in the wrong location based on their knowledge.
A new blood sugar test method developed by the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) has been shown to cut diagnostic errors by more than 50% compared to current tests. The technique, which takes into account the age of red blood cells, offers personalized diabetes monitoring for over 400 million diabetics worldwide.
A new study reveals that certain ants can rely solely on optic flow to find their way back to their nest when lost. This unique system allows them to calculate distance independently of their internal odometer mechanism, giving them two navigation systems.
A new study reveals that bacteria can evolve resistance to antibiotics by adapting to intermediate concentrations, and that spatial location plays a role in their success. Mutations that increased resistance often came at the cost of reduced growth, which was subsequently restored by additional compensatory mutations.
A new study by Nils B. Weidmann and colleagues found that politically excluded groups in countries with strong government control have lower internet access rates compared to more powerful groups. The researchers used the Ethnic Power Relations database to analyze internet availability among marginalized groups and found significant di...
Scientists have developed a two-pronged antibody that can counteract the unique immune-evasion mechanism of filoviruses like Ebola. The antibody, called a 'Trojan horse' antibody, targets the glycoprotein on the outside of the virus and prevents it from associating with a specific host-cell receptor in the endosome.
In a phase 1 clinical study of 32 participants with advanced B cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma, immunotherapy with defined subsets of T cells showed strong antitumor activity. The therapy was found to be more effective when combined with specific ratios of CD4 and CD8 CAR-T cells and pretreatment chemotherapy regimen.
AAAS researchers have developed a new type of cloth that can reflect sunlight while allowing heat to radiate from the body, potentially reducing energy costs associated with air conditioning. The fabric, made from nanoporous polyethylene, passes 96% of infrared radiation through its pores, making it highly effective at keeping cool.
Studies reveal new insights into Ceres' surface features, including craters, cryovolcanos, and water ice exposure. The findings suggest recent geological activity and propose possible explanations for the formation of Ahuna Mons and water ice on the dwarf planet's surface.
A new analysis of the world's first marketed dengue virus vaccine (Dengvaxia) provides critical insights for policymakers in dengue-affected countries. The study found that seropositive recipients gained a substantial benefit from vaccination, being 90% less likely to be hospitalized after contracting dengue.
A widely used brain cancer cell line, U87MG, has been found to be of unknown origin and different from the original patient tumor. Researchers used forensic and mitochondrial DNA profiling to trace the cell line's origin, revealing a potential mix-up or cross-contamination.
A new study reveals dogs can distinguish both vocabulary words and the intonation of human speech through brain regions used by humans. The research found that dogs process vocabulary in the left hemisphere and intonation in the right hemisphere, mirroring human brain function.
The European refugee crisis poses significant challenges, including fierce border disputes and criticism from 90% of national residents. To address these issues, experts suggest reducing income support for refugees, accommodating unskilled immigration, and welcoming young foreigners to relieve labor market shortages.
Scientists have identified a specific group of neurons in the mouse hypothalamus that acts as the internal thermostat, regulating core body temperature. These neurons express the ion channel TRPM2 and limit excessive temperature rise in response to infection or trauma.
A study in Kenya found that a simple voucher system can significantly reduce health product wastage without a significant decrease in usage. The system was more effective than charging money or free distribution in screening out those who would not use the products.
Researchers detected S wave microseisms, a rare phenomenon, triggered by a distant North Atlantic storm. The discovery provides new insights into the Earth's internal structure and may contribute to more accurate detection of earthquakes and oceanic storms.
Developed by an antibody that blocks clot formation without triggering bleeding, the new blood thinner could be used to treat patients with heart and vascular diseases. Researchers also created a second antibody to rapidly reverse its effects, addressing safety concerns.
Scientists have developed a new method to synthesize mother of pearl, mimicking nature's process using an organic matrix and mineralization. The resulting synthetic nacre has similar mechanical properties to its natural counterpart, making it a promising material for various applications.
Researchers have successfully modified a living genome by replacing multiple codons with alternatives, paving the way for fully recoded organisms. The study, which reduced the number of codons in E.coli from 64 to 57, provides critical insights into creating functional altered genomes.
Researchers found that zebra finch eggs exposed to recorded incubation calls weighed less and had lower oxidative damage upon hatching. This reduced mass correlated with improved health at high temperatures, leading to increased fledgling production in the first breeding season.
Researchers combined satellite data with machine learning to estimate poverty levels, outperforming nightlight models by 81% and 99%. The new method uses publicly available daytime satellite data, is repeatable, and inexpensive, offering a more accurate means to identify impoverished areas.
Animal models can help researchers understand genetic and environmental factors contributing to human diseases, which could inform precision medicine approaches. The large amounts of data generated by these models can be used to develop more targeted therapies, improving treatment outcomes for patients.
A new study has discovered that fatty acids on water droplets react with sunlight to form organic molecules, challenging conventional wisdom. This process could significantly impact local ozone and particle formation, affecting climate, air quality, and health.
A new study reports that Greenland sharks live at least 272 years and reach sexual maturity at 156 years old. The species now holds the record for the longest-lived vertebrate on Earth.
A team of researchers created a highly stretchable touchpad made of hydrogel, enabling users to write words and play electronic games. The device was tested with users placing it on their arms, demonstrating its potential applications in wearable technology.
A new study found that individuals in Chicago who received temporary financial assistance were 76% less likely to enter a shelter. The researchers also found that subgroups such as single adults, males, and callers under 30 benefited most from the financial assistance.
Scott Friedman calls on the next president to boost NIH funding, invest in physician-scientists, and promote disease prevention and access to medical care. He advocates for public-private partnerships, clinical trials with repurposed drugs, and democratizing access to clinical trials.
Analysis of three types of Zika vaccines reveals they are effective at protecting rhesus monkeys from the virus. The vaccines induce strong antibody responses and provide complete protection against Zika when exposed to the virus.
Researchers provide geological evidence for China's Great Flood, dated to 1920 BC, contradicting traditional timelines and offering a new perspective on the Xia dynasty's origins. The study suggests that the flood may have inspired a cultural response to an extreme natural disaster that connected groups along the Yellow River.
A new study identifies distinct hotspots in the US coastline where freshwater discharge from underground water sources can contaminate coastal waters. These hotspots, which account for half of all freshwater discharge, are particularly vulnerable to groundwater-borne contamination and affect 12% of the coastline.
Researchers developed a new technique using modified strains that consume xenobiotic nutrients, allowing them to outcompete other microorganisms. This method enables mass biofuel production without the use of antibiotics, which is poised as a more sustainable energy source.