Articles tagged with Discovery Research
An international team of researchers has discovered two genes linked to ankylosing spondylitis, a painful and progressive disease affecting the spine. The study also validated the association of two genes implicated in Graves' disease, increasing the number of known genes involved in both diseases.
Researchers have discovered a new primitive crab species, Cycloprosopon dobrogea, which existed over 150 million years ago during the Jurassic period. The discovery provides insights into the evolutionary history of arthropods, including crabs, and their role in shaping biodiversity.
Georgia Tech researchers develop method to predict evanescent wave behavior in nanoscale radiation heat transfer, enabling design of new nanodevices and technologies. The discovery opens path for various applications, including solar thermal energy technologies.
The National Science Foundation (NSF) is partnering with ResearchChannel to create science-themed programming for cable television, the Internet, and other media. The partnership will feature lectures from distinguished scientists, panel discussions on ongoing NSF-funded research, and institutional research series.
A virtual bazaar called PAZAR has been established to share gene regulation data, allowing researchers to access information without charge. This open-access database aggregates data on transcription factor and regulatory sequences, enabling the development of novel cancer therapies and stem cell treatments.
A research team has discovered forests of endangered tropical kelp in deep waters near the Galapagos Islands. The find suggests that marine ecosystems may be more resilient to climate change than initially thought, with kelp forests potentially harboring unique biodiversity.
A team of researchers has determined that human ancestors outside of Africa were more primitive than previously thought, based on analysis of 1.8 million-year-old fossils found in Dmanisi, Georgia. The species had a small stature and brain size similar to earlier African species, with some modern aspects of lower limb morphology.
Researchers from Boston University and NHLBI analyzed genetic differences associated with cardiovascular disease and other disorders using Framingham Heart Study data. The study found associations between specific genomic regions and characteristics such as blood pressure, lipids, and diabetes.
The NIH is expanding its national clinical and translational research consortium, adding 12 new academic health centers to the existing network. This expansion aims to facilitate collaboration and accelerate the translation of research into real-world treatments.
Researchers found that Cyprian honeybees mob and kill Oriental hornets through asphyxiation, targeting the hornets' abdomen to block breathing. This new defense strategy allows the bees to adapt to extreme conditions and survive.
The Buck Institute launches Geroscience, a new interdisciplinary field focused on the interface of normal aging and age-related disease. Researchers will employ novel approaches to studying diseases in the context of aging.
The NIH Roadmap for Medical Research is launching nine interdisciplinary research consortia to foster collaboration across multiple disciplines, addressing resistant health challenges. The program aims to transform academic research culture and provide a stimulus for academic research change.
Agencies producing large datasets face challenge of protecting personal information while preserving its value to researchers. Traditional de-identification methods are inadequate, and alternative approaches, such as administrative procedures and statistical transformations, may be necessary to ensure adequate privacy
A study published in The Lancet found that exposure to passive smoking increases the risk of developing COPD by 48% among never smokers in China. With over 60% of adults being never smokers, high levels of passive smoking are expected to result in approximately 1.9 million excess deaths from COPD.
A Carnegie Mellon scientist has developed a new method to characterize large viral particles and proteins using a mass spectrometer. This breakthrough enables researchers to study intact protein complexes in seconds, paving the way for rapid disease diagnosis.
Researchers at the University of Minnesota Medical School have developed a noninvasive diagnostic tool for complex brain diseases by recording tiny magnetic fields in the brain. The technique, which uses magnetoencephalography (MEG), can predict Alzheimer's and other brain diseases with high accuracy.
A team of researchers at the University of Cambridge has finally succeeded in synthesizing azadirachtin, a natural compound that stops predatory insects from feeding. The breakthrough uses a novel Claisen rearrangement and radical cyclization reaction to produce the complex molecule.
Researchers found that birds acquire flying skills due to genetically specified latent memory left behind by their ancestors, decreasing learning required. This effect is more pronounced when there is a large fitness cost associated with learning.
Researchers have identified microbial remains in ancient organic matter on Earth, dating back 3.5 billion years, using electron microscope techniques. The findings confirm the presence of primitive microbial communities, shedding light on the origins of life on Earth.
Scientists at the University of Exeter have discovered a rapid brain mechanism that helps people avoid repeating previous errors. This 'early warning signal' is triggered in just 0.1 seconds after making an incorrect prediction, allowing individuals to learn from their mistakes and make better decisions in the future.
A study of Baltimore's surface soils found a mosaic of soil types, with high chemical variability and differences in potassium, phosphorus levels, and bulk density due to fertilization and trampling. The researchers discovered no relationships between land use and heavy metal levels, instead finding correlations with surface rock types.
Professor Xihong Lin at Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health has been awarded a MERIT Award for developing statistical methods to analyze correlated and high-dimensional data in cancer research. The award will support his work on longitudinal and familial data, as well as genomic and proteomic data in epidemiological studies.
A team of researchers from the University of Florida and Harvard Medical School has discovered a protein called IGFBP-3 that may help prevent eye damage in premature babies. The protein activates stem cells and other reparative cells, which could stabilize existing blood vessels and prevent abnormal growth.
The Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council (NSERC) has honored six outstanding young Canadians for their research excellence. The winners have made significant contributions to various fields, including technology, chemistry, and biology.
Researchers at Seattle Children's Hospital Research Institute have identified a new genetic cause for Joubert syndrome, an inherited condition affecting brain development. The discovery sheds light on the role of cilia in this disease and possibly others, providing a breakthrough in diagnosis and treatment.
A new study identifies a genetic 'fellow traveler' that influences the risk of late-onset Alzheimer's disease. The researchers discovered the GAB2 gene, which appears to modify Alzheimer's risk in people with a specific version of the APOE gene.
A team of researchers from Arizona State University has discovered evidence that honeybees use a phylogenetically old molecular cascade to develop queens and workers. The findings, published in PLoS ONE, show that the TOR pathway is directly linked to nutrient-induced development, enabling two distinct phenotypes to evolve.
Canada's new government has invested $583 million in research grants to support professors and students across the country. The funding will focus on natural sciences and engineering research, with a total of $458.8 million going towards Discovery Grants for 3,300 professors.
Researchers report instances of three female-led infanticidal attacks in wild chimpanzee community, challenging the notion that infanticide is a male-dominated behavior. The findings suggest that deadly aggression may be part of the female behavior repertoire, possibly driven by demographic shifts and increased competition for resources.
Researchers from the US, Norway, and Russia have identified the origin of 1/f noise in semiconductor electronics, which could lead to more sensitive sensors and detectors. The study found that the noise arises from the random distribution of impurities and electron interactions in a state called Coulomb glass.
Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine have found an absolute biochemical distinction between sporadic and hereditary forms of Lou Gehrig's disease, suggesting that current approaches to drug discovery should be re-examined. This distinction may impact therapeutic strategies for ALS patients.
Researchers have discovered a weakness in the armour that protects B. cenocepacia from antibiotics, identifying a key sugar required for its protection. This finding may lead to novel molecules to disrupt its synthesis and develop new treatments.
Dr. Battey's dedication to the chemical senses has led to significant contributions, including leadership in trans-NIH scientific efforts and support of promising young investigators. He will receive the Distinguished Service Award from AChemS for his record of outstanding service.
A new study identifies a connection between allergic diseases like eczema and autoimmune diseases, suggesting that these conditions may trigger each other through immune system dysfunction. The researchers are now investigating specific triggers and exploring potential treatments, including drugs that can counter autoimmune responses.
Researchers at the University of Illinois have discovered a technique to make metal memory, allowing metals to revert to their original shapes when heated. The discovery could lead to vanishing dents and other physical feats.
Research published in Tobacco Control found that smokers took almost 11 extra days off sick compared to non-smokers, accounting for 43% of all sick leave. Despite adjusting for health and socioeconomic factors, the difference remained below eight days.
The symposium focuses on conducting oral health research in dental practice, discussing prominent challenges and opportunities. Representatives from PBRNs share experiences on recruitment, training, and study development.
Virginia Tech researcher Yong Xu seeks to create an optical microscope that can image nanostructures at one nanometer resolution, a breakthrough in arranging atoms on the molecular scale. Observing the vacuum field at this resolution could help solve quantum electrodynamics' remaining mysteries.
Researchers analyzed DNA data from mammal and bird species in the Americas to find speciation occurs faster in temperate zones than tropics. This is due to a higher turnover of species in temperate areas, resulting in more new species emerging.
Scientists at the University of Wisconsin-Madison found that warmer temperatures contribute to increased hurricane intensity in the Atlantic Ocean. However, this trend does not hold up in other oceans, highlighting the need for further research.
Researchers observed chimpanzees using spear-like tools to hunt lesser bushbabies from cavities in hollow branches. The hunting behavior was systematic and consistent, suggesting it was habitual, but only successful in one of 22 recorded instances.
Scientists identified a variant of apolipoprotein C1 protein associated with higher body mass index, obesity, and Type 2 diabetes in American Indians and Mexicans. This discovery can help identify risk factors for diabetes and inform diet and lifestyle choices.
Researchers found fossil evidence of domesticated chili peppers in seven archaeological sites across the Americas, dating back 6,000 years. The discovery provides insights into ancient diets and suggests possible contact between distant cultures.
Scripps research team discovers a chemical pathway that causes mice to overeat and gain weight due to the absence of the EP3 receptor. The study found that mice without the receptors are more active during their normal sleep cycle and eat more, leading to weight increases of up to 30 percent.
A new study found that those who desire all potential partners equally are less likely to be desired in return, while those who have a special connection with one person are more likely to receive romantic interest. Researchers used speed-dating methodology to observe initial attraction and discovered that being too selective can be a ...
Primary Progressive Aphasia is a mysterious neurological disease that affects speech and language abilities, with researchers discovering a genetic cause in a progranulin gene mutation. The study found the mutation in two unrelated families, providing a molecular approach to understanding the causes of the disease.
A team of international scientists has discovered a new group of microscopic organisms in the Arctic Ocean, which have diverged from known organisms more than land plants and animals. These 'picobiliphytes' are highly fluorescent and transform light into biomass, highlighting the ocean's complex biodiversity.
Researchers at UD University discovered a new class of polymers that can be transformed into ultra-thin films with potential applications in coatings, optics, and electronics. The discovery was made possible by a novel polymerization technique developed by the team, which eliminates the need for solvents.
A new study reveals that Mal3p binds to the seam of microtubules, stabilising them and regulating cellular transport. This discovery sheds light on how similar processes work in humans, where Mal3p's human counterpart plays a role in various clinical conditions.
A gene discovered by UNC researchers, palladin, has been associated with two forms of pancreatic cancer, according to a study. Palladin is involved in the formation of scar tissue on nerve cells and is overexpressed in people with sporadic, non-familial pancreatic cancer.
ResearchChannel awarded matching funds to five institutions, including Montana State University and the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, to produce documentaries on vital research topics.
A protein called NMNAT has been found to protect against nerve cell degeneration, with researchers discovering it plays a crucial role in maintaining neuronal health. The study, published in PLOS Biology, suggests that increasing NMNAT production could lead to the development of new treatments for diseases affecting the nervous system.
Researchers at the University of Houston have created a low-density, open-caged structure of germanium with unusual thermoelectric and optoelectronic properties. The new material has the potential to emit light and exhibit significant technological potential.
A survey of 9,000 people in eight countries found that 57% of Americans and 47% of Canadians consider post-9/11 anti-terrorism laws to be intrusive. The study also reveals cultural differences in attitudes towards surveillance and personal data, highlighting the need for public education and organizational accountability.
Researchers at Oregon State University discovered that aging blood vessels lose elasticity due to a breakdown in cellular signaling. A complex enzymatic process explains how this occurs, involving phosphorylation and ceramide synthesis. Diet rich in fruits and vegetables may help slow down this natural process.
A new web-based system, ThermoML, has demonstrated improved data quality and access for researchers in thermodynamics. The system catches and corrects errors in about 10% of journal articles, enhancing the overall research experience.
Researchers at the University of Calgary discovered that elite goalies should focus their gaze directly on the puck to make a save. This 'Quiet Eye' phenomenon allows goalies to successfully block shots over 75% of the time.
Researchers discovered that mating with a 'fit' partner leads to lower rates of reproductive success in the next generation. The findings suggest a twist on evolutionary thinking, where the lowest quality couple produces the best offspring.
Researchers observed atomic decay patterns to establish the existence of element 118, producing previously unknown isotopes. The discovery brings the total number of new elements discovered by the Livermore-Dubna collaboration to five.
Researchers successfully synthesized element 118 by firing Calcium ions into a Californium target, producing a record-setting atom that decayed rapidly. The discovery confirms previous claims made in 2006 and ends controversy surrounding the element's existence.