Researchers have developed a method to align liquid crystals using molecular anchors, allowing for the creation of stable patterns on both flat and curved surfaces. This technology has potential applications in fields such as optics, displays, and biosensing.
A new RFF issues brief highlights the potential impacts of climate change on agriculture, with estimates suggesting a modest reduction in grain production in developing countries and improvements in industrialized nations. However, the author notes that regional changes are highly uncertain due to varying climate models.
Patients with a history of depression often deny or attribute early warning signs, such as fatigue and stress, to external factors. Early intervention is crucial to prevent or minimize relapse, and recognizing these signs can provide control over emerging depressions.
New RFF issues brief examines interactions between climate change policies and the tax system. Research suggests that reducing carbon emissions may produce economic benefits when revenues from pollution control are used to reduce other taxes, potentially offsetting added costs. However, policy approaches can significantly impact costs.
A newly isolated bacterium, coccoid Strain 195, reduces toxic tetrachloroethene and trichloroethene to nontoxic ethene gas. The Cornell researchers' discovery will lead to better pollution cleanup strategies in the field.
A recent study found that treating depression in diabetic patients can lead to improved blood glucose control. Researchers discovered that as depression improved, glucose levels also decreased. The study showed that nearly 60% of depressed patients experienced significant improvement after treatment.
A collaborative study between the US and Russia aims to uncover the causes of Hepatitis C, a prevalent liver disease. The project will collect blood samples and questionnaires from over 4,000 individuals across New Mexico and Chelyabinsk-70, with results expected to shed new light on the virus.
A new study of over 1,000 prostate cancer patients found that those who underwent surgery had remarkably good outcomes, with few reporting dissatisfaction or problems with urinary or sexual function. Despite fears about complications, most men felt healthier and satisfied with their treatment after surgery.
Environmental scientists have developed an internet-based chat room to analyze ozone levels, enabling policymakers to make informed decisions. The site provides real-time data and interactive tools, helping researchers better understand the regional nature of ozone transport.
Researchers at UC Davis discovered that plants with simulated leaf domatia attract beneficial insects, reducing spider mite populations and increasing cotton yield by 30%. This mutually beneficial relationship offers a natural biological control strategy to pesticides.
New Arecibo radar images show no signs of ice in permanently shadowed areas at the moon's poles. Researchers believe rough surfaces from impact craters may be responsible for observed reflections instead.
Researchers have developed a technique using liposomes that can detect metal ions in solution, leading to practical sensors for heavy metals, viruses, and environmental cleanup. The technique involves entrapping liposomes in sol-gels, which increases their sensitivity, making them suitable for use in various applications.
A new RFF issues brief highlights the potential impacts of climate change on water supplies, including increased precipitation, evapotranspiration, and extreme weather events. The report emphasizes the need for more efficient water management and use to mitigate these effects.
A recent study published in Science found that genetic inheritance patterns continue to play a significant role in how people learn and process knowledge in old age. The research, conducted on Swedish twins aged 80+, showed that heritability accounted for 55% of individual differences in cognitive ability.
A new study by researchers at the University of Michigan found that students who need the most help in math are least likely to ask for it due to fear of peer judgment. The study suggests that parents and teachers should encourage students to focus on their own progress rather than comparing themselves to others.
Researchers have found fertile offspring that closely resemble primitive domesticated corn, carrying genetic traits from two wild American grasses. These hybrids exhibit resistance to the corn rootworm and drought tolerance, potentially leading to improved crop yields and reduced pesticide expenses.
Researchers have made significant breakthroughs with ZBLAN material, a potential game-changer for optical fiber communications. Made in space, ZBLAN exhibits properties that far exceed current state-of-the-art materials, offering vast potential for applications in fields like medical surgery and temperature monitoring.
A laser-based surface-engineering process significantly reduces friction between metal or ceramic components, prolonging machine part life and increasing performance. This breakthrough technology complements traditional lubricants, enabling the use of lower-cost materials in high-performance engines.
A National Science Foundation study reveals that emotions after disasters are more complex than portrayed in the news, with positive emotions often present. Survivors who receive early social support tend to cope better over time.
A recent study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that one child asphyxiated in a window covering cord every 27 days between 1981 and 1995. The most common scenarios involve infants in cribs near windows or toddlers suspended from pull cords after jumping or falling nearby.
Researchers found that by January of their first grade year, gender differences existed in the way children approached problem solving, not in accuracy. Girls were more likely to use overt methods, while boys relied on memorized answers.
Researchers at the University of Illinois have devised a way to modify metal surfaces with self-assembled monolayers of an inorganic compound, called silicotungstate. The resulting films exhibit superior stability and mechanical properties, making them suitable for corrosion inhibition and catalysis.
Studies suggest that slow stop-signal reaction time is responsible for poor impulse control in individuals with ADHD. Researchers are developing an objective diagnostic technique to refine understanding of ADHD and improve diagnosis.
A study of 66 children who stuttered found a strong genetic link to the condition. Most people who stutter have a common genetic factor that contributes to their persistence, with males being more likely to experience persistent stuttering.
A new laser technique called photodynamic therapy appears to prevent further vision loss in people with the wet form of age-related macular degeneration. The treatment uses a red laser light to activate a toxic form of oxygen that stops abnormal blood vessel growth, potentially confining scar tissue and preventing vision loss.
A new study published by the American Heart Association found that immune globulin injections enabled nine out of ten critically ill patients with damaged hearts to recover without heart transplants. The treatment has shown great promise in treating acute cardiomyopathy, a condition affecting up to 50,000 adults each year.
The American Heart Association recommends consuming a variety of fruits, vegetables, and whole-grain products to lower cholesterol. Phytochemicals like sterols, flavonoids, and sulfur-containing compounds inhibit cholesterol absorption.
When marriages fail, homes can exacerbate pre-existing problems, causing severe grief among parents and children. A study found that physical housing environment can be problematic before, during, and after divorce, with concerns about upkeep, maintenance, and money troubles common among custodial parents.
The American Heart Association recommends using oils in their natural state for cooking, and choosing softer margarines over harder ones for spreads. New guidelines suggest that these choices can help lower total fat intake and reduce trans fatty acid consumption.
Researchers found that children's negative beliefs about mothers and peers predict rejection and depression in a multidimensional study of 81 preadolescent children. Non-depressed kids tend to have more positive attributes about their mothers, while depressed kids may experience more stress in their family.
Preliminary tests indicate that years of consuming PCB- and DDE-contaminated fish have had no negative effects on fine motor skills. A comprehensive study is ongoing to examine the effects of environmental contaminants on older people.
A new type of thin-film transistor developed at the University of Illinois can enhance laptop computer displays by increasing switching speeds. The transistor contains a buried channel that allows electrons to move faster, permitting much higher resolutions.
A recent study by Drs. Kaufman, Bar-Matthews, and Ayalon analyzed stalactite samples to reconstruct ancient climatic changes. The research found that the region experienced dry and cool conditions from 20,000 to 58,000 years ago, with significant rainfall fluctuations occurring after 6,000 years ago.
Jango, a new software robot developed by the University of Washington, uses a novel web navigation technology to automatically search the web for products and provide users with detailed information. The robot can initiate orders and protect user credit card information through encryption.
A four-phase intensive treatment program, CALM, increases relationship stability and helps clients maintain sobriety through improved communication skills. The program also shows cost savings and reduces domestic violence incidents after treatment
Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center have identified three genes controlling early heart formation, which may lead to new treatments for congenital and adult heart disease. The study found that the absence of these genes can result in cardiac anomalies, highlighting the potential for targeted therapies.
Selective hypothesis testing, considering only one possible outcome, contributes to overestimation of probability and increased gambling decisions. Training in abstract reasoning skills may counteract this influence.
Researchers have discovered a novel physiological role for UG in mice, suggesting its essentiality in preventing kidney fibrosis and neonatal BPD. UG deficiency leads to inflammation and fibrosis of lung tissue, resulting in respiratory inhibition.
Researchers found that women with low body iron but no anemia use more effort to perform physical work or exercise compared to those with normal iron levels. Iron depletion without anemia significantly impairs work capacity and physical performance.
A new study at Ohio University found that changes in muscle cells with aging limit muscle growth, and the number of special cells required for muscle growth decreases as people age. This reduction limits how much a muscle can grow.
Researchers have synthesized two protein fragments that effectively immunize mice against lupus. These findings may lead to more focused treatments with fewer side effects.
A new study by Prof. Mordechai Milgrom proposes a radical alternative to the existence of invisible dark matter, instead suggesting that modifications to Newton's laws are needed for giant galactic systems. The theory, known as MOdified Nonrelativistic Dynamics, could revolutionize our understanding of the universe.
The Unified Data Meta Model (UDMM) integrates CAD, CAPP, and MRP systems to enable efficient data transfer between them, reducing production time and costs. This integration allows industrial engineers to work more efficiently throughout the manufacturing process.
A new device invented by Ohio University researchers can control zebra mussel infestations in enclosed water conduits, ballast tanks, and water supplies. The device uses commercially available vacuum systems to lower oxygen levels, preventing mussels from attaching to surfaces.