A new analysis found unique networks of hundreds of proteins that may drive the growth of breast, head and neck cancers, according to three studies out today.
Why it matters: Cancers differ in many aspects, including their mutations. But, there are some common systems of cells involved, including protein networks, that may affect cancer growth and scientists hope to target them with therapies.
Scientific studies of psychedelic therapies may be entering a new, broader phase thanks to more interest and funding from federal governments.
Why it matters: MDMA, psilocybin and LSD — combined with psychotherapy — have shown promise for treating a range of addictions and mental health disorders, including treatment-resistant depression and PTSD.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) sailed a robotic surfboard with a sturdy, vertical "hurricane wing" into the heart of Hurricane Sam, currently the strongest storm on Earth with sustained winds of 145 mph.
Why it matters: The unprecedented footage from the uncrewed vessel inside a major Atlantic hurricane, as well as the data from the drone are helping forecasters hone their understanding of these fearsome storms.
A Colombian neurosurgeon is responsible for discovering that some dementias once considered to be simply senilitycould be successfully treated.
Why it matters: Salomón Hakim provided the annals of neurology with one of the most original bodies of research by developing the concept of normal pressure hydrocephalus. His findings changed the study of dementia.
U.S. Geological Survey scientists confirmed that Hawaii's Kīlauea volcano began erupting Wednesday within Halema'uma'u crater, the summit of the volcano.
Why it matters: Kīlauea's major eruption in 2018 destroyed more than 700 homes, displacing thousands of people and devastating residential areas in the Puna District on the Big Island, according to the National Park Services.
The Federal Aviation Administration has cleared Virgin Galactic to return to spaceflight operations after concluding an investigation into the company's July trip to suborbital space, Virgin Galactic said in a statement Wednesday.
Why it matters: The high-profile flight, carrying billionaire Richard Branson, was seen as a step forward for the company to begin commercial services in the near future.
The Fish and Wildlife Service announced Wednesday that 22 animals and one plant native to the United States are now extinct and should be removed from the endangered species list after exhausting efforts to find evidence that they are still alive.
Why it matters: After existing for an untold number of years, the species will likely never appear on the planet again, largely because of human-caused habitat destruction and climate change.