Articles tagged with Discovery Research
A new website provides access to genomic data on chronic lung disease, making it easier for researchers to analyze and gain insights. The site offers a range of data types and tools for different user groups, including quantitative scientists, basic investigators, and translational scientists.
The Allen Institute for Brain Science will double its staff to launch three new initiatives tackling fundamental brain questions: information encoding, cellular building blocks, and circuit development. New funding enables expansion and acceleration of global neuroscience research.
A genetic marker has been discovered that identifies pigs with reduced susceptibility to PRRS, a virus costing the US pork industry $600 million annually. The discovery is a breakthrough in controlling and eliminating the virus, and has implications for animal health and human medicine.
Researchers discovered a brain circuit that mediates loss of appetite in mice, revealing potential therapeutic targets for eating disorders. The study identified interventions that can restore normal appetite and prevent starvation by modulating signals from specific nerve cells.
Cedars-Sinai researchers identified the mechanism that leads to interleukin-1beta production, a major contributor to inflammation in conditions like atherosclerotic heart disease and strokes. This discovery could lead to treatments that prevent its production, resulting in more effective medications for inflammatory diseases.
Scientists from Scripps Research Institute have discovered a compound, SR 3306, that blocks the destruction of brain cells in animal models of Parkinson's disease. The new compound could potentially be the first to protect the brain from the ravages of the disease.
A new species of deep-sea catshark has been described from the Galapagos Islands, characterized by its chocolate-brown coloration and pale, irregularly distributed spots. The species is found at depths of 1,400-1,900 feet and is believed to be susceptible to overfishing due to its restricted range.
Researchers have converted the Tohoku-Oki earthquake's seismic waves into audio files, enabling the audience to hear pitch and amplitude changes, as well as familiar sounds like thunder, popcorn popping, and fireworks. This unique representation helps explain various aspects of the earthquake sequence, including mainshocks and aftersho...
A research team at the University of Pittsburgh used the Sloan Digital Sky Survey to determine that the merger of double white dwarfs is a plausible explanation for Type Ia supernovae. The study found that one double white dwarf merger event occurs in the Milky Way about once a century, remarkably close to the rate of observed Type Ia ...
Researchers have discovered a new species of turtle, Polysternon isonae, that lived with dinosaurs in Isona, Spain. The fossil remains found are rare and provide valuable information about the morphology and size of the animal.
Researchers at the University of Minnesota discovered that cell phone networks leak user locations, allowing hackers to track their movements. The team used inexpensive phones and open source software to demonstrate the vulnerability on the GSM network.
Researchers have found a new type of defect in quasicrystals that extends beyond the surface and into the bulk. This discovery sheds light on the relationship between surface and bulk defects in materials, which is crucial for understanding the strength and properties of nanostructures.
Researchers have created a high-resolution virtual image of S1P1 receptors, critical in controlling MS and other diseases. The molecular map points toward promising new drug discovery paths.
A University of Alberta researcher has developed a vaccine that shows signs of prevention against all strains of hepatitis C. The vaccine was tested on humans and elicited broad cross-neutralizing antibodies against major strains, offering hope for those with the disease.
Four Boston College faculty members, Michelle Meyer, Ying Ran, Dunwei Wang, and Liane Young, have received the 2012 Sloan Research Fellowships for their groundbreaking research in various fields. The award recognizes their exceptional contributions to science and their potential to make significant impacts in the future.
A study published in Cell reveals that only a handful of genes and proteins guide the growth of motor neurons, which eventually connect with muscles. This discovery may lead to new therapies for ALS and provide insight into certain cancers.
Scientists discovered a new link between mutations in an evolved gene module and syndromic autism, specifically Joubert syndrome. The study found that alterations in cellular primary cilia led to malformation or underdevelopment of the cerebellum and brainstem.
A Stanford University School of Medicine study analyzing electronic medical records found that women report more intense pain than men across virtually every disease category. The researchers identified significant differences in pain intensity for conditions such as fibromyalgia, migraine, acute sinusitis, and cervical spine disorders.
Jackson Laboratory researchers discovered a defect in RNA splicing process that contributes to neurological disease. A mutation in one copy of the U2 snRNA gene causes neurodegeneration, leading to movement problems and early neuron death in mice.
A pediatric research project aims to collect long-term clinical data on children with conditions detected in newborn screening, enabling researchers to develop new tests and interventions. The project has the potential to transform treatments for rare childhood diseases.
Researchers at the University of Florida have discovered a key amino acid, methionine, that is effective in killing caterpillars threatening the US citrus industry. The discovery uses a genetically related surrogate and has potential applications for organic poultry production.
A new study provides a composite picture of oil and gas distribution after the 2010 Deepwater Horizon spill. It uses vast chemical data to estimate oil and gas flow rate and environmental distribution.
A new species of Amomum (Cardamom) has been discovered in the Western Ghats of Kerala, India. The plant is characterized by its distinctive ligules and small flowers, and is considered critically endangered due to conservation efforts.
Researchers successfully created the narrowest conducting wires in silicon with a diameter of just one atom, exhibiting excellent electrical properties and beating out copper. This breakthrough could pave the way for atomic-scale components in future quantum computers.
Fourteen international teams win $4.8 million in grants to investigate 'big data' techniques for humanities and social sciences research. The projects cover topics such as music, Egyptian mummies, and human rights abuses.
Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh have created a new class of highly porous materials that can efficiently store large amounts of drug molecules or gas molecules, such as carbon dioxide or methane. This breakthrough has significant implications for alternative energy and the pharmaceutical industry.
A study published in New Phytologist found that the entire Hawaiian population of Sphagnum palustre is a single clone, with genetic diversity comparable to that of sexually propagating populations. This surprising discovery suggests that vegetative propagation can lead to long-term evolutionary success.
A Tel Aviv University study found that anxious people are less stimulated by fear-inducing images than non-anxious individuals, suggesting an under-reaction to subtle threatening stimuli. This leads to a 'surprise' reaction to fearful stimuli that non-anxious individuals have already subconsciously noticed and evaluated.
Researchers from Southwest Research Institute and Nebraska Wesleyan University discovered a strong ultraviolet-wavelength absorber on Pluto's surface, indicating the presence of complex hydrocarbon and/or nitrile molecules.
Ultrafast laser pulses create precise patterns in metals and ceramics, but new research reveals an early plasma forms immediately before the mushroom cloud, hindering performance. Eliminating this interference could unlock new applications in manufacturing, materials science, and more.
Italian scientists at Catholic University of Rome discovered a molecule called CREB1 triggered by low-calorie diets, activating genes linked to longevity and brain functioning. Caloric restriction has been shown to extend life and prevent brain diseases in mice.
A new biodiversity data publishing framework has been proposed by the Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF) to encourage and facilitate the sharing of biodiversity data. The framework aims to overcome barriers to access and publishing of data, making it the expected norm for biodiversity research.
Researchers developed a new pentrometer to measure apple crispness, improving accuracy and reducing errors in traditional sensory analysis methods. The study found significant correlations between the computerized penetrometer's data and expert panel ratings, demonstrating its potential for large-scale apple breeding programs.
Autism Speaks has joined the National Institute of Health's National Database for Autism Research (NDAR), providing access to genetic, phenotypic, and clinical data from 2500 families. This collaboration enables researchers to pool larger datasets and accelerate scientific discovery.
The NDAR federation has created the largest source of autism research data to date, providing a standardized platform for collaboration and data sharing. Researchers can access results from various sources simultaneously, conducting independent analyses and supplementing their own research data.
A recent review of re-identification attacks on health data found that existing de-identification methods are effective in protecting individual identities. The study, published in PLOS ONE, analyzed 14 relevant studies and found no convincing evidence of a weakness in current de-identification methods.
Cornell University researchers found that altering endothelial cell behavior in hardened vessels can reduce the effects of aging on vessel health. By tricking cells into thinking vessels are not stiff, inflammation is reduced, potentially preventing atherosclerosis.
Researchers found a decrease in GABA receptor concentration in ET patients' cerebellums, which may affect motor coordination and movement control. The study opens doors to new research avenues and potential treatments for the condition.
Researchers identified the primary motor cortex as the key brain area responsible for correcting movement after external knocks, which may help explain why some stroke patients improve while others remain uncoordinated. This finding could support first-stage sensory rehabilitation to rebuild pathways and improve movement skills.
Researchers at Max Planck Institute discovered that plant seed cells contract their nuclei and condense chromatin to resist dehydration, enabling seeds to survive harsh conditions. This mechanism allows seeds to prepare for germination when environmental conditions improve.
Medical researchers have discovered a hidden process that erases the shadoo protein in infected brains, up to seven months before physical symptoms of prion diseases like BSE or mad cow disease appear. This new understanding opens up research opportunities into attenuating the disease.
Researchers found that certain smartphone models with pre-loaded applications can be tricked by hackers to bypass security features and access personal information. The study tested eight different models and identified significant vulnerabilities in five of them.
A new 'Data Paper' workflow has been pioneered by GBIF and Pensoft publishers to provide incentives for data compilers. The first-ever peer-reviewed paper derived directly from a biodiversity metadata document is published in the ZooKeys journal.
The researchers have developed a highly efficient system to generate nucleic acid molecules, called aptamers, for next-generation disease diagnosis and testing. The Quantitative Parallel Aptamer Selection System (QPASS) aims to make devices like instant diagnosis machines ready for widespread clinical use.
Researchers at Princeton University have developed a technique to accelerate chemical discoveries by performing over 1,000 reactions per day using robotics. This approach enables the rapid exploration of new chemical combinations, potentially leading to breakthroughs in pharmaceuticals and other fields.
Scripps Research scientists have identified a key gene that plays a crucial role in maintaining metabolic balance. The study found that the melanocortin-3 receptor (MC3R) expressed outside the brain is equally important as its central nervous system counterpart.
A team of researchers has discovered that a thin layer of air trapped between the drop and the surface plays a crucial role in splashing. The study reveals a transition regime between spreading and splashing, observed by changing impact velocity or ambient pressure.
Scientists at Scripps Research Institute have created a new class of small molecules with the potential to serve as a rich foundation for drug discovery. The approach combines synthetic chemistry and advanced screening technologies, overcoming molecular limitations associated with current methods.
Researchers at NYU Langone Medical Center have discovered a protein called TAT-5 that inhibits the budding of extracellular vesicles from cells, affecting tumor spread, blood clotting, and inflammation. The study reveals new potential strategies to manipulate diseases like cancer.
Researchers at VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland have discovered the SHARPIN protein, which regulates human cell activity and movement. The study's findings may have significant implications for conditions such as Crohn's disease, psoriasis, rheumatism and multiple sclerosis.
A new study by Johns Hopkins researchers found that nearly 30 million Americans have severe hearing loss, with prevalence doubling every decade. The finding suggests that many more people than previously thought are affected by this condition, which has significant consequences for cognitive decline and physical functioning.
A new gene, LRP1, has been identified as the cause of fatal abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAAs). Researchers found that this gene is specific to AAA and not linked to other cardiovascular diseases. The discovery paves the way for new methods to treat AAAs.
Scientists studied how fluids travel through nanoscale channels and found that methyl alcohol diffused much faster in one direction due to the shape of the pores. The discovery has far-reaching implications for novel microscopic materials, including nanotubes and drug delivery systems.
Researchers from UBC and international partners develop artificial muscles strong enough to rotate objects a thousand times their own weight, with the same flexibility as an elephant's trunk or octopus limbs. The new material is composed of carbon nanotube yarns that can twist and untwist, enabling rapid rotation and control.
The University of Notre Dame has received $1.8 million and $1.75 million to develop two novel computing approaches: wave-based computational thinking and Quantum-dot Cellular Automata (QCA). These projects aim to create ultra-small devices with low power consumption, potentially revolutionizing information processing systems.
Researchers from the University of Alberta and Cambridge have discovered a fifth adaptin protein complex involved in membrane trafficking, which has been present for billions of years. This finding opens up new avenues for understanding neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's, Huntington's disease, and ALS.
Researchers have discovered a cellular pathway that promotes inflammation in diseases like asthma, rheumatoid arthritis, and psoriasis. Understanding this pathway may provide opportunities for tailored treatments of inflammatory and autoimmune diseases.
A new species of fossil silky lacewing insects has been discovered in China, providing insights into the evolutionary history of the family Psychopsidae. The newly found species, Undulopsychopsis alexi, exhibits unique characteristics, including an undulate wing margin and unusual venation patterns.
Research suggests that diseased brain proteins can be taken up by healthy neurons and propagated within them, leading to neurodegeneration. Alpha-synuclein fibrils have been shown to induce the formation of Lewy bodies, hallmark lesions of Parkinson's disease.
Researchers discovered two previously overlooked stages of carbon nanotube growth, including a disorderly tangle of tube growth that yields to orderly rows. The discovery sheds light on the controlled growth phases and their purposes in producing aligned carbon nanotubes for various materials and biomedical research.