A new research program at Cornell University is using computer simulations to understand how tiny cracks in materials can grow into major ones. The project, called Multiscale Modeling of Defects in Solids, involves creating models that show how defects at the atomic level can lead to changes at increasingly larger scales.
A University of Chicago study found that 15-40% of outpatient surgery patients using short-acting anesthetics can bypass the recovery room, with annual savings ranging from $50,000 to $158,000 per site. This trend is expected to shift from academic centers to community hospitals and private offices.
Researchers have found a small gap in the auroral oval, which appears about 7% of the time between 10pm and midnight. The discovery was made using data from the Ultraviolet Imager aboard the Polar spacecraft and suggests that changes in the interplanetary magnetic field may be responsible.
A team of scientists from Columbia University and Princeton University have found that North America is absorbing carbon dioxide at a rate greater than expected, with forest regrowth playing a significant role. The study suggests that land-based carbon-absorbing zones could play a crucial role in managing greenhouse warming.
Researchers at Penn have developed a smart ICU system that improves vital-sign monitoring of critically-ill patients using artificial computer intelligence. The system utilizes neural networks and fuzzy logic to analyze patient data, enabling clinicians to identify dangerous deviations from ideal vital signs.
Researchers at Emory University have identified a potential new approach for alleviating Parkinson's disease symptoms by blocking glutamate receptors in the brain. This could lead to combination therapies that improve treatment outcomes and reduce side effects.
Research at Johns Hopkins University suggests that fur traders' hunting habits may have changed the local ecosystem, altering stream flow and vegetation. The study aims to understand how human activities affect natural resources and inform future development plans.
A Northwestern University study found that individuals with low cardiovascular disease risk factors during young adulthood and middle age had significantly lower annual Medicare charges, with men experiencing a 30% reduction ($1,600 less) and women experiencing a 50% reduction ($1,800 less). The results suggest that preventing major ca...
In a study on roundworms, UCSF researchers found that a gene controlling aging acts not within individual cells but rather coordinates the aging process of the whole organism. The discovery suggests a mechanism that causes all cells to reach a consensus on aging, potentially offering insight into human aging.
Researchers attribute sharp declines in sea otter numbers to killer whale predation, linked to changes in oceanic and nearshore ecosystems. The study highlights the impact of ecological chain reactions on coastal food webs and species populations.
Rapid population growth is projected for Africa, Asia, and Latin America due to high fertility rates and declining mortality rates. In contrast, developed countries like Europe, North America, and Japan face below-replacement levels of fertility, but may experience modest increases in population.
Myuanan Long, a University of Chicago researcher, has received the David and Lucile Packard Fellowship to study gene evolution. He believes that new genes arise through shuffling and mixing of existing genes or gene fragments, with 'junk' DNA playing a crucial role in this process.
Researchers at NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center aim to demonstrate a propellant-free propulsion system using a tether system similar to those used on earlier SEDS missions. The ProSEDS flight could enable shorter tethers for propulsion or electrical power generation, and even de-orbit satellites with minimal cost and weight.
Killer whales have begun preying on sea otters in western Alaska, leading to a decline in sea otter populations and an increase in sea urchin numbers. This chain of events is linked to the collapse of seals and sea lions, which are the killer whales' usual prey.
Researchers have discovered that certain bacteria can prevent sperm from swimming well enough to reach an egg, affecting fertility. Infertile men with asymptomatic infections may benefit from broad-spectrum antibiotics to eliminate the bacteria before attempting IVF.
A study by UNC researchers confirms the presence of mutated, drug-resistant human immunodeficiency virus in the semen of men taking antiviral medications. The study found that if men do not have adequate suppression of their virus, they are likely to shed drug-resistant strains of HIV in their genital secretions.
Scientists have captured the most insightful images to date of Neptune's wildest weather, including monster storms and equatorial winds of 900 miles per hour. The new observations revealed a
Elevated levels of corticipotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) may predict preterm delivery and shorter gestation lengths in pregnant women. The study found that higher CRH levels at 28-30 weeks gestation were associated with earlier deliveries and increased risk of preterm birth.
Researchers have developed a mobile robot tracking system that can predict escape routes and optimize view angles to catch moving objects. The system uses laser rangefinders and 3D mapping to track targets, making it difficult for humans and robots to evade detection.
The National Library of Medicine (NLM) announces 24 contract awards totaling $2.3 million to develop innovative medical projects leveraging the capabilities of the Next Generation Internet (NGI). These projects aim to improve data transfer, security, and usability in healthcare settings.
Researchers found that women with recovered bulimia nervosa had increased serotonin levels and negative moods, obsessions with perfectionism, and anxiety. The study suggests that altered brain chemistry contributes to the development of bulimia nervosa and persists even after recovery.
Researchers have developed brain implants that allow people with severe disabilities to control a computer cursor using their thoughts. The technology has shown promise in enabling individuals with paralysis or other conditions to interact with the world, with further research ongoing to improve its capabilities.
The Whitaker Foundation has awarded more than $30 million to The Johns Hopkins University and the University of California, San Diego for biomedical engineering programs. This marks the largest individual grants in its 23-year history.
A team of scientists from Idaho National Laboratory developed a system to evaluate what's inside projectiles without opening them. The PINS technology uses neutron spectroscopy to determine the type and amount of chemical agents, enabling safe disposal and preventing accidental destruction of incinerators.
Two scientists suggest that satellites' waste heat could be causing distant spacecraft to slow down faster than expected. The heat is emitted in a direction opposite to the Sun, giving the spacecraft a small push towards the Sun and slowing them down.
A study by researchers at the University of Pennsylvania found that 52% of resident physicians self-prescribe medications, with 42% obtained from hospital sample closets or pharmaceutical company representatives. The practice raises concerns about lost professional objectivity and potential conflicts-of-interest.
BioNumerik Pharmaceuticals has discovered a new non-toxic platinum protecting agent, BNP7787, which substantially reduces the toxicity of platinum-type anticancer drugs. Preclinical studies show that BNP7787 increases cisplatin's antitumor activity while protecting against kidney toxicity, vomiting, and bone marrow toxicities.
A new study found that forest fragmentation allows large predators like raccoons and opossums to target ground-nesting songbirds, leading to a decline in some species. The researchers discovered that small forest fragments have a higher incidence of predation from large species, which can lead to dramatic effects on reproductive success.
David J. Kupfer, a renowned psychiatrist, received the Rhoda and Bernard Sarnat International Prize in Mental Health for his groundbreaking research on mental health treatment. His work has improved understanding of recurrent mood disorders, depression, and the relationship between biological rhythms, sleep, and depression.
A new ultrasonic scanner developed by Penn State researchers can image the interior of a material as it responds to temperature changes. The device was used to study a laminate material called PEEK, which is widely used in various consumer products, and demonstrated its ability to detect defects and monitor internal structure changes.
Researchers at Thomas Jefferson University have developed a method to reverse dangerous cerebral vasospasms. The treatment involves administering a drug that dilates cerebral blood vessels, reversing constricting effects within 30 minutes.
The Healthy Heart Handbook for Women provides women with a personal action plan to reduce major risk factors and prevent cardiovascular diseases. Key statistics reveal that many women are at risk due to smoking, high blood pressure, and obesity, highlighting the importance of making lifestyle changes.
The Institute of Medicine has elected 55 new members, bringing the total active membership to 574. The newly elected members include experts in various fields such as medicine, public health, and social sciences, who will contribute to ongoing studies on health policy issues.
Recent study examines over 100 gamma-ray bursts, finds no evidence supporting synchrotron shock model. Researchers analyze low-energy spectra to determine burst causes.
Researchers found that zebra mussel larvae die in Lake George water within a week due to low calcium levels. However, adult mussels thrive in the same conditions. The discovery provides hope for protecting the lake's ecosystem from invasive species like zebra mussels.
Researchers found that smoke directly penetrates seeds, triggering germination, and that various factors influence the process, including charred wood, Nitrogen dioxide, and soil moisture levels. The study suggests fire behavior has a significant impact on post-fire ecosystems.
Researchers at Brown University have discovered that bats can resolve sonar images with a higher quality and wider variety of orientation tasks than previously thought. Bats can process overlapping echo delays as little as two microseconds apart, resolving objects as close together as three-tenths of a millimeter.
The Recodable Locking Device is a minuscule mechanical device that uses microelectromechanical system technology to create an extremely difficult-to-break code entry system. This device is designed to prevent unauthorized access to computer systems, making it virtually impossible for hackers to breach even the most secure networks.
Brown dwarf Cha Ha 1 is the youngest known member of the Chamaeleon dark cloud, with a mass of 4-5% of the Sun's mass and an age of one million years. Its X-ray emission was detected using the ROSAT satellite.
Researchers at UH and AOI create mid-infrared laser on new compliant universal substrate, improving cooling and power output. The technique expands epitaxy options, enabling production of high-performance semiconductor devices like lasers and solar cells.
A new two-year study examines reproductive problems, early menopause, osteoporosis, and psychosocial issues in long-term breast cancer survivors. The study aims to develop a telephone-based counseling intervention to reduce physical and emotional consequences of breast cancer diagnosis and treatment.
Researchers discovered that trace amounts of nicotine can raise blood pressure in an animal model by releasing the neurotransmitter lutenizing hormone-releasing hormone (LHRH). The study suggests that even small doses of nicotine may cause short-term high blood pressure and potentially hypertension in humans.
A Cedars-Sinai Medical Center clinical trial may offer a permanent, non-surgical cure for patients with Paroxysmal Atrial Fibrillation. Correctly identifying patients and eliminating trigger areas using radiofrequency energy could eliminate the need for long-term therapy and reduce stroke risk.
Researchers at Boston University are developing new computational approaches to manage complex systems in manufacturing, global communication networks, and economic systems. The tools will enable accurate prediction and flexible decision-making, reducing costs associated with worst-case analysis.
Researchers at the University of Limerick have developed a prototype penicillin structure that works by incorporating a unique fragment to the penicillin molecule, fatal to bacteria and activated only when cleaved. This new approach shows promise in combating antibiotic-resistant bacterial strains.
Researchers have designed a new genetic weapon called ribozymes to treat inherited human blindness by slowing the progression of retinitis pigmentosa. The treatment targets the autosomal-dominant form of the disease and has shown significant protection of eye cells in lab rats.
A new study finds that local hospital bed supply, not patients' preferences or illnesses, determines whether terminally ill patients die in hospitals or at home. The research challenges current efforts to reform end-of-life care by highlighting the need for adjusted healthcare resources and practice styles.
Researchers reconstruct past temperature changes using high-precision equipment, revealing a 4.5F warmer climate 5000 years ago and a 2F colder Little Ice Age. The region surrounding the North Atlantic Ocean is particularly sensitive to climatic changes due to ocean circulation patterns.
Astronomers will discuss Hubble Space Telescope findings on life in the universe, including environments suitable for life being probably plentiful. They'll also explore Mars and Jupiter's moon Europa, as well as two upcoming NASA missions searching for signs of life elsewhere in the solar system.
A new human tumor-suppressor gene, PPP2R1B, has been identified as a potential indicator of susceptibility to lung and colon cancers. The study suggests that the gene's mutations may be inherited, making some individuals more susceptible to cigarette smoke-related chemicals.
The Implicit Association Test has been taken by over 33,000 people, revealing strong automatic racial and age preferences. The most popular test is the self-esteem test, which shows an automatic preference for 'me' relative to 'them'.
A study suggests that advertisers should schedule their commercials for the middle of programs and improve their media plans. The study also recommends that TV stations keep their lengthier breaks away from the beginning and end of shows. By doing so, advertisers can prevent channel surfing and optimize their ad placements.
Researchers coax bacteria from contaminated soil into cleaning up toxic heavy metal chromium by adding appropriate nutrients. The team aims to optimize microbial action at contaminated sites for effective bioremediation.
Researchers discovered specific genetic changes that indicate whether chemotherapy is effective in treating patients with anaplastic oligodendrogliomas. The discovery allows for immediate determination of chemotherapy response at diagnosis, offering improved treatment options for patients.
A team of plant biologists at the University of York have isolated the first plant antifreeze protein found in carrots. This discovery has potential applications in improving frozen food quality, cryoprotection of medical tissues, and increasing frost tolerance for crops.
Columbia University has been awarded nearly $10 million over five years to establish two new interdisciplinary centers in materials science and environmental chemistry. Researchers at the Materials Research Science and Engineering Center (MRSEC) will investigate thin films and transport of pollutants, while the Environmental Molecular ...
A Johns Hopkins study found that women who experience physical or verbal abuse are more likely to suffer from health problems, including physical symptoms such as diarrhea and abdominal pain. The study also found a higher incidence of vaginal discharge and substance abuse among abused women.
Gene therapy aims to treat unborn children with genetic disorders like SCID and alpha-thalassaemia. The treatment involves introducing healthy copies of the defective gene into the fetus, but raises concerns about potential risks and long-term consequences.
A recent DNA study by Alan R. Templeton reveals that the genetic variation among humans is primarily individual-level, with most differences too small to define distinct racial lines. The research challenges the notion of human races as a scientifically valid concept.
Research aims to identify damage to specific neurological circuits in the developing brain, potentially leading to clinical protocols for fetal alcohol effects treatment and rehabilitation. The study will evaluate long-lasting deficits in synaptic plasticity, or the ability of neurons to change their signaling processes over time.