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Neuronal protein Sex-lethal modulates tRNA synthesis via the polymerase III subunit Polr3E in male Drosophila neurons
The RNA-binding protein Sex-lethal (Sxl) is classically known as a master regulator of sex determination and mRNA splicing in Drosophila melanogaster. However, this role is not conserved across species, and functions beyond the canonical pathway remain poorly understood. In this study, we uncover a splicing-independent role for Sxl at the chromatin level in the Drosophila brain. Using Targeted DamID (TaDa) profiling in neurons, we identify widespread binding of Sxl to promoter regions,...
Varicose projection astrocytes: Conserved reactive cells in brain pathology
Astrocytes play essential roles in neuropathology. Human astrocytes exhibit unique properties, highlighting the importance of studying astrocytic responses in human models. Varicose projection astrocytes, previously considered exclusive to hominoids and a physiological type of astrocytes, were suggested to reflect pathological burden, albeit direct evidence linking them to neurological diseases has been lacking. Here, we demonstrate that varicose projection astrocytes also appear in other...
Footwear Characteristics and Their Impact on Gait and Balance in Older Adults: A Systematic Review of Recent Evidence
CONCLUSION: Among the included studies, featuring a minimal outsole, a textured insole design, and a high collar design showed consistency to benefit older adults that provides textured feedback while offering foot protection, which may enhance balance control. However, some studies also implied that certain designs may have potential negative effects, including toe-beveled, minimal outsole, less-fixation, and barefoot condition. The lack of comprehensive descriptions of experimental footwear...
Lifelong cognitive reserve as a resilience factor for frailty progression and recovery in later life
CONCLUSIONS: A higher cognitive reserve is linked to a decreased risk of developing frailty, slower progression, and a greater likelihood of improvement from pre-frailty to non-frailty, suggesting that lifelong cognitive enrichment enhances the physiological reserve beyond cognition. These findings suggest that interventions and policies that support the development of cognitive reserve across the life course may contribute to healthier frailty trajectories in later life.
Independent and synergistic associations of sleep quality and frailty with cardiometabolic multimorbidity: a cross-sectional analysis in Chinese elderly population
CONCLUSIONS: Sleep quality and frailty are associated with CMM, suggesting that their combined assessment may enhance predictive accuracy for CMM risk. These findings underscore the need to prioritize high-risk elderly individuals for integrated interventions addressing sleep disturbances and frailty, thereby facilitating the transition from reactive to proactive cardiometabolic care models.
Scientists tested 39 sweeteners and found unexpected gut effects
A large laboratory study found that many commonly used sweeteners can directly change the growth of gut bacteria. Researchers identified more than 100 cases in which sweeteners behaved differently when combined with medications, caffeine, or flavorings. The combination of isosteviol and the antidepressant duloxetine was especially disruptive, reducing beneficial bacteria and overall microbial diversity.
Can giant space mirrors boost green energy on Earth? A start-up aims to find out
Disruption of CDK4/6–RARα–NF-κB axis attenuates senescence-associated inflammation and improves function during aging and following chemotherapy
Man’s ability to make sperm restored after testicular tissue transplant: what scientists think
Found: a rocky exoplanet with an atmosphere — could it host life?
Why pain hurts more when we’re lonely, and the myth of original sin: Books in brief
Wearable sensors on the face are invisible to the eye
Briefing Chat: Sweet! Elusive sugar molecules found in space
Trump administration ends dozens of grants for studying patient care
“Nonaward” notices discontinue grants from the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality whose annual funds had been stalled
China’s detention of U.S. seismologist and data-sharing crackdown alarm researchers
Youlin Chen analyzed earthquake data that can also aid nuclear-test monitoring
New Alzheimer's drug repairs DNA damage and reduces brain inflammation
A drug originally developed for spinal cord injury may offer a fresh approach to treating Alzheimer’s disease. In mouse studies, KCL-286 repaired dangerous DNA damage, reduced inflammation, and targeted multiple disease-related pathways instead of focusing on just amyloid or tau. Since it has already cleared an initial human safety trial, researchers believe it could move more quickly into Alzheimer’s clinical testing.
U.K. government details plan for dramatic aid cuts to African nations
Some countries face reductions of more than 90%, new report reveals, raising fears of devastating impacts on global health and education
This sugar-coated therapy boosted survival against deadly brain cancer by 50% in mice
A new experimental treatment may have found a way to outsmart glioblastoma’s toughest defense: the blood-brain barrier. Researchers used sugar-coated nanoparticles to ferry genetic instructions that restore a key tumor-suppressing protein directly into brain cancer cells. In mouse studies, the therapy increased median survival by 50% while shrinking tumors without noticeable damage to other organs.
Prominent Salk Institute biologist to resign following sexual misconduct investigation
Staffers complain that Salk allowed circadian rhythms researcher Satchidananda Panda to depart quietly, while the allegations and findings remain under wraps
This drug could help millions keep their kidneys working longer
An international study found that finerenone slows kidney function decline and reduces the risk of serious kidney and cardiovascular complications in people with chronic kidney disease who do not have diabetes. The results could open the door to a much-needed new treatment option for the majority of CKD patients who have long had limited choices.