Researchers are working on long-term artificial heart replacement devices that can be used in humans within five years. Temporary ventricular assist devices have saved thousands of lives and continue to be a major part of heart replacement research.
Chlamydial infection is a leading sexually transmitted disease in the US, causing infertility and severe complications. Age-based screening has been shown to be cost-effective in identifying infected women without symptoms, preventing sequelae and saving lives.
Riemann's concept of curved space was pivotal in Einstein's explanation of gravitation, while his abstract surfaces inspired modern math and physics. His ideas continue to influence contemporary theories like string theory.
The Salton Sea Database Program will utilize GIS software to analyze data on the lake's ecosystem, including climate, soil, water quality, and vegetation. The program aims to inform decision-making and restoration efforts for the critically endangered Salton Sea.
Researchers at Penn State used global and regional climate models to investigate climate change differences. They found that regional models produced warmer temperatures, leading to more rain and less snowfall in the Northeastern United States.
A new coupled hydrologic model system simulates storm events and river basin response by linking atmospheric and hydrological models. The model was tested on the West Branch of the Susquehanna River basin, showing improved results with historic meteorological data compared to atmospheric predictions.
Penn State researchers investigate climate change's effects on the Susquehanna River Basin, examining vulnerabilities to flooding, waterborne diseases, and policy decisions. They find that effective measures like increased filtration, boiling water, and balanced expenses can mitigate these risks.
The University of Delaware is pioneering an effort to educate students as problem solvers through 21st-century challenges. Using problem-based learning methods, students tackle real-world problems and develop higher-order thinking skills such as evaluation and analysis.
A large population-based study found no relationship between sunscreen use and melanoma risk, as people's reports of sunburn histories were inconsistent. Instead, genetic characteristics such as moles and pigmentary phenotype are major determinants of melanoma risk.
Researchers found that female African frogs use a rapid series of loud clicks to attract mates, triggering a reciprocal signaling system. This discovery contradicts traditional views on mating habits and highlights the role of hormones in regulating vocalization and courtship behavior.
A new study suggests that Social Security financing would be relatively unaffected by the largest expected mortality improvements, with less than 1% difference in tax rates projected. However, experts acknowledge a high degree of uncertainty about mortality improvement rates, which could add to the challenges faced by retirement planners.
Research in Behrmann's lab focuses on visual scene interpretation, enabling object recognition and spatial awareness. The brain divides information into form and identity, then synthesizes it for a unified experience.
A team of researchers at Thomas Jefferson University has developed a transgenic mouse to study the causes and effects of photoaging on human skin. The mouse line enables scientists to learn more about how ultraviolet light rays cause skin aging and wrinkling, and how this can be prevented through better sunscreen formulations.
A team of researchers led by Susan Brawley discovered that aquatic organisms are highly sensitive to environmental cues such as water motion and salinity. They found that plants release gametes only when the carbon supply begins to run out, allowing for high fertilization success rates
Plant pathologists are developing new management practices for disease control, including the use of ecologically-based strategies and biological control organisms. The phase-out of methyl bromide is expected to have a significant impact on American agriculture, prompting research into alternative pest control tools.
Researchers found cancer cells self-destruct when glucose is cut off, suggesting a potent new way to fight cancer with few side effects. The discovery was made using a compound that disrupts glycolysis, the process that produces energy from sugar, and could be used in combination with existing treatments.
A Yale University study confirms that UV-B radiation from the sun causes high rates of mortality and deformity in certain frog and amphibian species. Shielded embryos had significantly lower deformities and mortality rates compared to unshielded ones.
A computer model developed by Penn State researchers can predict the probability of land use change and microclimate formation in urban areas. The model uses satellite image data to calculate land use types, vegetation, and surface climate parameters, providing insights into urban growth and its impact on local liveability.
Scientists are using Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) technology to study subtle phenomena such as volcano deformations before eruptions and gradual buildup of stress over years. SAR is also being used to map the flow of ice sheets and glaciers, and gather data on land subsidence issues related to fluid withdrawal.
Climate change affects regional economies differently, with some sectors experiencing significant losses while others benefit from increased productivity. A regional model of the Susquehanna River Basin in Pennsylvania suggests that communities can greatly benefit or suffer economically depending on the region.