Bacteriophages: Are they an overlooked driver of Parkinson's disease?
Research reveals that lytic bacteriophages contribute to PD by reducing neurotransmitter-producing bacteria, and may be a diagnostic and treatment target.
Discovery Research
News on early, curiosity-driven science that opens new directions. Covers materials discovery, AI-guided research, pediatric research standards, and energy science.
When did animals leave their first footprint on Earth?
Researchers discovered fossil footprints for animal appendages in the Ediacaran Period in South China, revealing evidence of early animal life. The trackways indicate that bilaterian animals with paired appendages existed during this period, raising questions about their evolutionary origins.
SMU School of Law awarded research grant to address governance of AI and data use
The SMU School of Law has been awarded a major grant to develop government- and industry-relevant strategies for the governance of AI and data use. The five-year Research Programme on the Governance of Artificial Intelligence will build critical interdisciplinary capacity in this area.
Proxies who watch advanced care planning video more likely to withhold feeding tubes
Researchers found that proxies who viewed a 12-minute advanced care planning video were more likely to have residents with advance directives indicating tube-feeding should be withheld. When proxies preferred comfort care, advance directives aligned with that preference.
SourceHebrew SeniorLife Hinda and Arthur Marcus Institute for Aging Research·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateJun 4, 2018
New algorithm fuses quality and quantity in satellite imagery
Researchers at the University of Illinois have developed an algorithm that combines high-resolution and high-frequency satellite data to produce continuous, daily images. This allows for near-real-time monitoring of various applications, including agriculture, urban development, environmental quality, and economic development.
SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalRemote Sensing of Environment·DateJun 4, 2018
Creating an automated high-throughput flow cytometry system
Researchers from the Genomics Institute of the Novartis Research Foundation developed a fully automated screening system that solves the slow and low-throughput problem of high-throughput screening in flow cytometry. The system achieves a throughput of 50,000 wells per day, enabling robust phenotypic drug discovery.
Proxies less likely to use interventions when patients are close to death
Researchers found that proxies more accurately predict length of life left and are less likely to agree to burdensome treatments for residents believed to have less than 6 months left. This discovery was published in the Journal of the American Medical Association Internal Medicine.
Biosensor technologies to offer more effective approaches to disease treatment
Researchers have developed a new class of biosensors that can study biomembrane interactions and reveal how cells respond to disease molecules. This technology has significant implications for designing more effective anti-infective drugs and novel cancer treatments.
SwRI scientists introduce cosmochemical model for Pluto formation
Researchers integrated NASA's New Horizons discoveries with ESA's Rosetta mission data to develop a new theory about Pluto's formation at the edge of our solar system. The 'giant comet' cosmochemical model suggests Pluto formed from agglomeration of comets or Kuiper Belt objects similar to 67P.
NIMS inorganic material database 'AtomWork-Adv' made available to the public
The NIMS inorganic material database AtomWork-Adv has been made available to the public with enhanced features. The database contains a vast amount of crystal structure, X-ray diffraction, material properties, and phase diagram data collected from literature up to 2014.
Google search data shows weight loss searches have increased over time while those on obesity have decreased
A study analyzing Google trends data found that weight loss searches increased and obesity searches decreased over the past 12 years, potentially indicating a normalization of obesity in society. The research suggests that public awareness of obesity is decreasing, while interest in losing weight is on the rise.
ULB archaeologists discover a 1,000-year-old mummy in Peru
Archaeologists from Université libre de Bruxelles uncover an exceptionally well-preserved mummy dating back to 1000-1200 AD at the Pachacamac site, offering insights into Pre-Colombian burial practices. The discovery provides valuable information on the local ancestors' worship and fertility symbols found in the area.
Self-consistency influences how we make decisions
Researchers found that people's decisions are influenced by their past judgments to remain consistent with themselves. The study suggests that the brain prioritizes self-consistency over remembering precise details of the past.
Münster University archaeologists post research data from Sudan online
The 'Wadi Abu Dom Itinerary' project has made its archaeological findings from Sudan available online, allowing the public to explore and compare data with other researchers. The project's geoinformation system enables users to view point data and area data for all recorded structures and access additional information.
New brain development disorder identified by scientists
Researchers have identified a new inherited neurodevelopmental disease caused by a recessive mutation in the CAMK2A gene, leading to slow growth, seizures, and learning difficulties. The disorder is also linked to other neurological conditions such as epilepsy and autism.
New genes found that determine how the heart responds to exercise
Researchers at Queen Mary University of London and University College London have identified 30 new gene locations that determine how the heart responds to exercise and recovers from it. This discovery could lead to the development of targeted therapies for abnormal heart rhythms and improved heart health.
Understanding Andean concepts of death and renewal
The study reveals a stunning relation between ceremonial sites and cemeteries, underpinning complex Andean concepts of death and renewal. It was discovered that the site's features can be related to the surrounding landscape, highlighting the importance of Kipia as a local huaca.
Nouns slow down our speech
Researchers found that nouns slow down speech more frequently than verbs, indicating difficulties with planning noun utterances. This discovery has implications for understanding human language processing and suggests universal long-term effects on grammar evolution.
Scientists discover how a pinch of salt can improve battery performance
Researchers created 3D hierarchically organised carbon structures using a supermolecular sponge and salt, enabling rapid charging and high capacities in Lithium-ion batteries. These nano-diatoms could also be used as electrocatalysts for hydrogen production.
SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateMay 14, 2018
Rising religious 'none' rates linked to conservative Christian politics
A new study from University at Buffalo finds a correlation between conservative Christian politics, same-sex marriage bans, and a rise in people identifying as religious 'none.' The research suggests that the public salience of the Christian right drives up the rate of nones.
Mount Sinai launches the i3 Asset Accelerator to advance the development of life-saving discoveries
The i3 Asset Accelerator is a new fund that fast-tracks select research discoveries to reach patients sooner. The accelerator has selected its first two projects, focused on cancer treatment and influenza B viral infections, with the goal of advancing commercially relevant solutions globally.
Basing everyday decisions on risk of pain or loss linked to increased anxiety
Researchers found that people who generalize from negative events, such as pain or loss, report a greater experience of anxious feelings and intrusive thoughts. The study suggests that analyzing complex behavioral processes can help tailor treatments more effectively for people with anxiety.
Getting health data sharing off the ground
The Swiss Personalized Health Network aims to develop guidelines for responsible health data sharing, addressing key topics like data quality and patient sovereignty. Innovative solutions, including blockchain and reciprocity-based incentives, are being explored to overcome hurdles in data sharing.
LSUHealthNO LA tumor registry among 16 funded by NCI SEER program
The Louisiana Tumor Registry has been awarded a one-year, $1.8 million contract to continue its work as a SEER Program-designated cancer registry. The award includes options for an additional nine years of funding, making it one of 16 competitively awarded SEER registries in the US.
Planetary waves similar to those that control weather on Earth discovered on sun
An international team of scientists has discovered planetary waves of vorticity on and inside the Sun similar to those that significantly influence weather on Earth. These solar Rossby waves are gigantic in size and contribute half of the Sun's large-scale kinetic energy, with wavelengths comparable to the solar radius.
Ontology-based surgical subtask automation, automating blunt dissection
A team of researchers has developed an ontology-based system to automate blunt dissection using the da Vinci surgical robot. The algorithm uses stereo endoscopic camera image feed and achieves high accuracy on feature-rich objects, with promising results for future integration into current surgical workflows.
UCI participates in NIH’s landmark precision medicine research
The All of Us Research Program aims to accelerate research and improve health by collecting genetic, biological, environmental, health, and lifestyle data from 1 million+ volunteer participants. Participants will have access to their own health information and contribute to a national research resource.
Coverage gains after ACA for Asian-Americans, Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders
Health insurance coverage gains were associated with all major racial groups following the Affordable Care Act, eliminating disparities between whites and Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders. The study highlights the importance of addressing coverage gaps for diverse populations.
Uncovering the secret law of the evolution of galaxy clusters
An international team found a fundamental law regulating galaxy cluster growth using gravitational lensing data from NASA's Hubble Space Telescope and Subaru Telescope. The law indicates that clusters are still growing by drawing surrounding substances with their strong gravity.
Hospital patients are eager to play a role in tracking health data, researchers find
Researchers found patients in hospitals want to track their health data and partner with care teams. Patients are interested in using devices like Fitbits to manage chronic conditions but prefer collaborative approach.
Escalation of competition leads to conflict in competitive networks of F1 drivers
A new study reveals that similar-status F1 drivers are more prone to collide, especially when they are age-similar, performing well, and feeling safe. The research team found structural equivalence triggers antagonism among interactants, leading to increased conflict.
SourceThe Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 24, 2018
Novel discoveries on aggressive NK-cell leukemia pave the way for new treatments
Researchers discovered genetic defects typical in ANKL, a shared genetic background with NK- and T-cell malignancies, and novel gene amplifications in the JAK-STAT signaling pathway. Potential drug candidates were found, including JAK inhibitors that could improve treatment for various NK-cell malignancies
Study: Wide distribution of naloxone can slash overdose deaths during epidemics
A new study shows that rapid expansion of British Columbia's Take Home Naloxone program significantly reduced opioid overdose deaths. Between January 1 and October 31, 2016, the program prevented 226 deaths or 26% of all possible overdose-related deaths in that time period.
An AI that makes road maps from aerial images
Researchers at MIT's CSAIL have developed RoadTracer, an automated method to build road maps that is 45 percent more accurate than existing approaches. The system uses data from aerial images and creates maps step-by-step, tracing out roads one step at a time.
Depression study pinpoints genes that may trigger the condition
A recent study has pinpointed nearly 80 genes that may contribute to depression, providing new insights into the causes of mental ill-health. The research, published in Nature Communications, analyzed genetic data from over half a million people and found links to synapse function.
Army scientists uncover how to stop cyber intrusions
Researchers at UCLA have discovered Majorana particles, which are critical building blocks for quantum computers due to their resistance to external interference. The discovery could lead to the development of robust topological quantum computing and potentially improve situational awareness for the US Army.
Articles provide updated guidance to authors submitting to the British Journal of Pharmacology
The British Journal of Pharmacology has published updated guidance for authors on designing experiments, analyzing data, and presenting results. The editorials aim to improve reproducibility and transparency in preclinical research by providing approaches to data presentation and checklists for immunoblotting and immunohistochemistry.
Raw fruit and vegetables provide better mental health outcomes: Otago research
A study published in Frontiers in Psychology found that consuming raw fruit and vegetables is associated with lower levels of mental illness symptomology and improved psychological wellbeing. The top 10 raw foods related to better mental health include carrots, bananas, apples, and dark leafy greens.
St. Jude Cloud launches for researchers worldwide
Researchers worldwide can now access the world's largest public repository of pediatric cancer genomics data via St. Jude Cloud. The platform offers accelerated data mining, analysis, and visualization capabilities, enabling faster progress toward cures for catastrophic diseases of childhood. By harnessing collective power, global rese...
UNH researchers find combination for small data storage and tinier computers
Researchers at UNH have found a novel material combination that enables more stable perpendicular anisotropic energy, leading to larger amounts of data storage in smaller environments. This breakthrough has the potential to revolutionize information technology, enabling smaller and safer computers.
Newly discovered salty subglacial lakes could help search for life in solar system
Researchers have found two new subglacial lakes in the Canadian Arctic, which are thought to be similar to potential habitats for microbial life on other moons in our solar system. The discovery could help scientists prepare for future missions, such as NASA's Europa Clipper mission.
How birds can detect the Earth's magnetic field
Researchers at Lund University discovered that Cry4 protein in birds' eyes is a key magnetoreceptor, providing constant levels throughout the day. This finding supports the idea that other animals have magnetic receptors and may aid in developing new navigation systems.
More dairy associated with higher bone density and greater spine strength in men over 50
Research found that higher dairy consumption is associated with improved volumetric bone mineral density and vertebral strength in men aged 50 and above. The study also showed positive associations between cream intake and bone health in women, although results were less significant compared to men.
SourceHebrew SeniorLife Hinda and Arthur Marcus Institute for Aging Research·JournalJournal of Bone and Mineral Research·DateApr 5, 2018
Cell discovery could help with research on genetic diseases
Researchers have discovered a rare form of the Golgi apparatus in the microbial amoeba Naegleria gruberi, which was previously thought to lack it. This finding provides new insights into the relationship between Golgi dysfunction and genetic diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's.
Scientists discover new method for measuring cellular age
Researchers at Van Andel Research Institute developed a computational method to measure cellular age, revealing progressive loss of specific chemical tags in normal cells. This discovery may lead to better screening and monitoring methods for cancer and other diseases.
£2.2 million boost for pioneering research into mental health conditions
Researchers at the University of Edinburgh will pool anonymised health records, genetics, and psychological studies to better understand mental health conditions like depression. The £2.2 million initiative could lead to new treatments and improved resilience for one in four people in the UK who experience a mental health issue annually.
Monash discovery uncovers clue to disarm gonorrhea superbug
Gonorrhoea superbugs have developed resistance to all known antibiotics, targeting human immune cells called macrophages. Monash researchers discovered the mechanism of evasion, which could lead to new strategies for combating gonorrhea infection.
New study to measure impact of sleep tracker data on patient-provider communication
A new exploratory study examines how use of sleep tracker data can improve physician-patient dialogue regarding sleep. The study will utilize Fitbit devices and track real-time sleep information to measure results, providing insight into the utility of consumer sleep monitoring devices in primary care.
New device uses biochemistry techniques to detect rare radioactive decays
Researchers have developed a new device that uses fluorescence to detect ions and identify the product of a rare radioactive decay called neutrinoless double-beta decay. The discovery could provide insight into the nature of the neutrino, which may offer an explanation for the universe's matter-antimatter imbalance.
Improving human-data interaction to speed nanomaterials innovation
A new application of data analysis and visualization techniques has been developed to improve the representation of multidimensional materials data. This approach enables scientists to extract useful relationships among properties, facilitating discovery and industrial use in nanomaterials research.
Why hospital staff sympathize with patients who self-discharge
Researchers found that hospital staff sympathize with patients who self-discharge due to a lack of control and discomfort on hospital wards. The study suggests that viewing self-discharge in a more positive light enables staff to demonstrate compassion toward patients.
Golden touch: Next-gen optical disk to solve data storage challenge
Scientists have developed a new type of high-capacity optical disk that can hold data securely for over 600 years, addressing the world's data storage problem. The technology enables a significant leap in capacity and lifespan compared to traditional hard disk drives.
IU Bloomington scientists examine reproducibility of research issues and remedies
The researchers examine proposed remedies designed to reduce the degree of irreproducibility in scientific findings. They recommend reforms tailored to research type and goals, emphasizing the importance of sharing reliable and important data, while maintaining strict vigilance to ensure quality reporting.
Scientists mimic neural tissue in Army-funded research
Researchers at Brandeis University have engineered soft materials with embedded chemical networks that mimic the behavior of neural tissue, paving the way for autonomous soft robotics and dual sensors. The breakthrough material may also lead to artificial skins and exoskeletons.
Researchers create 3-D structure of the nuclear pore complex
The discovery provides insight into the construction and function of the NPC, which spans the double membrane of the nuclear envelope and regulates development and cell growth. The researchers' novel Integrative Modeling approach accurately placed 552 NPC proteins within the channel.
Researchers find bone density scans can also help identify cardiovascular disease
Researchers found that calcium deposits in large arteries increased the risk of heart attacks and mortality. The study suggests bone density tests can also screen for cardiovascular disease, making them a valuable tool in screening.
SourceHebrew SeniorLife Hinda and Arthur Marcus Institute for Aging Research·JournalJournal of Bone and Mineral Research·DateMar 12, 2018
Defect in cells' antenna linked to deformed organs in zebrafish
Researchers discover protein CEP128 regulates critical cellular processes, including heart development, and its inactivity causes severe malformations in zebrafish. Human cells also show similar effect, providing potential insights into treatments for birth defects and diseases.
SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - The Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences·JournalCell Reports·DateMar 9, 2018
Direct observation of topology hidden inside materials
A joint research group has successfully observed topology hidden inside materials using soft X-rays. This achievement enables the direct determination of material topology without relying on surface appearance, which is expected to lead to the discovery of more diverse topological electronic phases.
Discovery fills gap in search for better treatments for Ebola, other viruses
University of Alberta researchers have found the Ebola polymerase enzyme, which may lead to more effective research and better treatments for the often fatal infection. The discovery allows for the study of Ebola inhibitors in any lab environment, accelerating the search for antiviral medicines.
SourceUniversity of Alberta Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry·JournalScientific Reports·DateMar 7, 2018
Environmental exposures more determinant of respiratory health than inherited genetics
A large-scale study analyzing over 1.6 million data points found that environmental exposures, such as air pollution, have a greater impact on gene expression related to respiratory diseases than genetic ancestry. The research used big data to uncover the environmental factors behind diseases and inform strategies for prevention.