A dense brownish haze layer extended from the ocean surface to 1-3 km altitude, impacting climate processes over the northern Indian Ocean. The haze reduced solar radiation absorbed by the ocean surface by as much as 10%, altering weather and climate dynamics.
Researchers have found that butyltins can disrupt the function of human natural killer cells, which are critical in fighting tumor cells and infected cells. The study's findings highlight the need for further research into the potential health effects of these chemical contaminants on humans.
The American Heart Association reports that high dietary salt intake is linked to increased risk of heart disease and stroke in overweight individuals. Snoring may also be a warning sign for cardiovascular disease, as it activates the sympathetic nervous system. Additionally, controlling weight through exercise can reduce cardiovascula...
A study found that patients who experience strokes during the night wait four to seven hours longer for emergency treatment than those whose strokes occur during the day. This delay is caused by the difficulty in determining the exact time of stroke onset when symptoms are only apparent after waking up.
Recent experiments by physicists at the University of Notre Dame and Tohoku University have found that current theories describing turbulence may need modifications, particularly in extreme situations. The findings suggest that ultra-hard turbulence, a predicted state of turbulent flow, may not exist as previously thought.
A new study from Boston University suggests that moderate alcohol consumption up to 20 grams/day may not raise PAI-1 levels; instead, higher levels are associated with a modest increase. The findings suggest that moderate drinking may have beneficial effects on PAI-1 or at least no harm.
The American Heart Association recommends statin drugs as a second step after lifestyle modifications for cholesterol-lowering. Red yeast rice, found in Cholestin, may be less safe and effective than prescription medications.
Researchers at CalTech designed a new protein-like polymer that supports endothelial cell growth and could be used for blood vessel replacement. The material is expected to aid patients who cannot supply their own replacement veins, offering a potentially improved success rate compared to current synthetic polymers.
Scientists warn that Arctic climate change could counteract ozone layer recovery efforts. Particle sedimentation processes in the stratosphere may remove protective gases, hindering the healing of the ozone layer over the northern polar region.
A new instrument helps children understand the difference between truth and lies, and recognize the importance of telling the whole truth. The Lyon-Saywitz Oath-Taking Competency Picture Task has shown that children as young as five can be trusted to understand what they're promising in a court of law.
A Chinese condiment extract, Cholestin, has been shown to reduce total blood cholesterol by nearly 26% in elderly patients and 'bad' cholesterol by 32.8%. The supplement contains HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors that inhibit liver-produced cholesterol production.
Research presents evidence that moderate caffeine consumption can improve performance in tasks requiring sustained attention. Additionally, studies suggest that green tea catechins have anti-oxidative, antibacterial, and antiviral potency, while polyphenolic compounds in cocoa may also have cardiovascular benefits.
Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh have found that electron beam computed tomography (EBCT) can identify older adults with heart disease who appear healthy through standard non-invasive tests. EBCT measures coronary and aortic calcification, which are known risk factors for coronary events.
A NASA study led by Dr. Dale Quattrochi found that Atlanta's urban expansion creates a unique heat island effect, influencing local weather patterns and air quality. The study revealed that this phenomenon can lead to increased ozone production and thunderstorms due to the interaction between warm air and surrounding areas.
Researchers at Cornell University are working on an artificial gel made of silicon that could lead to faster and cheaper methods for DNA sequencing. The biochip is designed to identify DNA fragments by measuring their movement through uniform-sized passages, allowing for more precise control and comparison with theoretical predictions.
New studies suggest ecosystems can be disrupted by small environmental changes or loss of minor species, challenging conventional wisdom on ecological protection. Research finds importance of both keystone and lesser species in ecosystem function.
A study found that low educational level increases the risk of congestive heart failure by 35% compared to those with more education. The strongest risk factors for developing CHF were diabetes, high blood pressure, overweight, smoking, and physical inactivity.
Astronomers have detected the brightest optical celestial object ever recorded using a low-cost, automated telescope built from recycled lenses and hardware. The ROTSE-1 telescope captured optical emissions from a gamma ray burst while it was still arriving, providing new insights into the phenomenon.
Researchers at Virginia Tech are using molecular modeling to help chemistry students better understand molecules and their properties. Students explore specific molecules on the computer before making actual compounds in the lab, resulting in improved student engagement and outcomes.
Scientists are using an old photographic technique to study nuclear physics and potentially develop a clean, long-term power source through thermonuclear fusion. The petawatt laser facility generates high-energy gamma rays that can be used to trigger tiny fusion reactions.
Researchers have discovered a new polymer that produces water vapor and leaves a nearly nonflammable residue when heated, making it more fire-resistant than current materials. The study's findings could help prevent deaths in survivable airplane accidents, which account for 40% of fatalities.
A new study reveals that a specific gene variant can make African Americans more sensitive to salt, increasing their risk of developing high blood pressure. The researchers found that even small amounts of salt can raise blood pressure in individuals with the gene variant.
Ground-penetrating radar is used to map large areas and determine snowfall patterns, providing a record for comparison with climate models. The technology can accurately date ice layers, which is essential for studying glacial cycles and changes in atmospheric chemistry.
A three-year exercise program significantly lowered mortality rates among men who had suffered a heart attack. The study found that increased physical work capacity during the trial period was associated with reduced risk of death at every time period.
Researchers at Penn discovered that chemoembolization doubles the survival time of adult patients with colon cancer that has spread to the liver. The procedure, which delivers chemotherapy directly to tumor cells, outperforms systemic chemotherapy in managing metastasized disease.
Researchers created a wax experiment that replicates ocean floor spreading, allowing them to study millions of years of geological time. The experiments revealed the formation of microplates, tiny chunks of solid wax that roll up and rotate in a spiral shape, mirroring the Earth's natural phenomenon.
Researchers have developed new polyester materials that can retain carbon dioxide longer, leading to improved packaging and shelf life for food and drinks. Additionally, these polyesters can be used in electronic components, such as computers and automobiles, due to their environmental friendliness and recyclability.
Astronomers used numerical cosmology to study the earliest structures that formed in the universe, finding tiny star clusters containing 1,000-10,000 solar masses. These early clusters were likely the 'spark plugs' that started the formation of galaxies.
The US Navy's USS HAWKBILL is conducting a five-week scientific expedition to the Arctic Ocean as part of SCICEX 99. The mission aims to examine geophysical, chemical, and biological properties of the Arctic Ocean, including mapping its poorly-charted floor.
A new NASA study reveals Atlanta's urban heat island effect, with temperatures 10 degrees higher than surrounding areas, worsened by human land use changes. The increased heat intensifies smog levels and creates thunderstorms, which can also have beneficial effects in cleaning the atmosphere.
A new study by Brown University researchers found that teenagers with body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) experience significant impairment in social functioning, with 94% reporting difficulties. The disorder often begins before age 18, particularly at age 13, and can be treated effectively with antidepressants.
Researchers have discovered a way to describe how molecules self-assemble into cell-wall-like polymers without requiring biochemistry. This understanding could lead to the production of wood-like materials from other plant-derived molecules, such as straw, and help conserve forests.
A recent study suggests that heart attack severity is decreasing in the US, with possible reasons including increased preventive measures and better treatment for heart attacks. The analysis of the Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities (ARIC) study found a decline in both in-hospital and out-of-hospital coronary heart disease mortality.
An Australian-led team of astronomers has discovered a significant number of stray stars, potentially altering our understanding of the universe's composition. These findings suggest that there may be as many stars living in intergalactic space as those within galaxy clusters.
Researchers have created a technique to measure the electrical characteristics of individual carbon nanotubes, confirming their potential in making small circuits and computer chips. The new method enables scientists to conduct electricity without heating up, addressing a major obstacle in producing smaller electronic components.
A new sulfoxide hydrogel polymer enhances water levels in the eye while minimizing protein buildup, leading to softer lenses that are more comfortable and breathable. Clinical trials have begun for these innovative contact lenses, which could become available as early as next year.
Researchers found that chromium picolinate causes DNA breakage, potentially leading to genetic mutations and cancer. The study's findings highlight the need for further investigation into the long-term effects of chromium picolinate supplementation.
Researchers have confirmed that blue-green algae Aphanizomenon flos-aquae (AFA) significantly lowers cholesterol levels in animals. Additionally, the algae's benefits appear to be independent of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), suggesting a potential dual mechanism of action.
Researchers have developed a new method to create activated carbon products from unburned coal waste, offering a cost-effective and environmentally friendly alternative. The process separates the fly ash from the unburned carbon and activates it for high surface area production with yields over 70 percent.
Researchers at Cornell University have developed nanomagnets that can store data, with the potential to gather up to 100 times more information in the same space as present-day magnetic data disks. The devices are tiny bar magnets as small as 25 nanometers long and require new physics to make a system work.
Researchers have developed a new, more effective form of the medication Ritalin that produces fewer side effects and has the potential to be used in anticocaine therapy. The improved drug is made through a chiral synthesis process, which allows for smaller doses and reduced potential side effects.
A recent study by Frankfurt historian Notker Hammerstein sheds light on the DFG's record during the Weimar Republic and Third Reich, revealing a period of political conformity under National Socialism. The organization's founding ideals were largely abandoned in favor of Nazi ideology.
Researchers at IBM Almaden Research Center and University of California, Santa Cruz, have discovered novel compounds that enable precise control over polymerization reactions. This breakthrough promises to create new materials with complex molecular architectures and specific qualities.
The USGS conducts a continent-wide bird survey using over 2,500 skilled amateur birders and professional biologists. The organization also monitors water quality at abandoned mines, assesses woodcock survival, and launches the Frogwatch USA program to engage scientists and the public in amphibian conservation.
Research on limonoids, compounds in citrus peels, indicates potential anticancer activities, inhibiting human breast cancer cell proliferation and reducing LDL cholesterol levels. Field tests also demonstrate insect pest management prospects for these compounds.
Researchers at Cornell University have created a nanoharp to study the physics of very small vibrating systems. The device consists of silicon rods suspended above a substrate and measures vibrations using laser light, detecting frequencies up to 380 MHz.
Scientists have developed cotton fabrics with built-in pesticide detoxifiers that can be cleaned and reactivated by washing with bleach. The treatment reduces pesticide levels in garments to harmless fragments within minutes, offering a comfortable and protective solution for agricultural workers and gardeners.
A new finish for cotton fabric has been developed using citric acid and maleic acid, offering superior durable press performance and good laundering durability. The cost-effective method is a formaldehyde replacement and is now under commercial development.
Researchers at the University of Rochester discovered that Alzheimer's patients suffer from motion blindness, a condition where they struggle to interpret visual cues, leading to disorientation. This can be a significant factor in their daily lives, including driving and navigating familiar environments. The study's findings may lead t...
The 'Demystifying Cancer' program brings together medical professionals, researchers, and experts to provide accurate information about cancer. Participants will learn about current therapies, clinical trials, and how to navigate the Internet for reliable information.
Ulrike Becker and Wolfgang Glasser's research on fluorine-containing cellulose esters reveals a way to change adsorption in fibers, improving cigarette filter performance. The study also advances the understanding of cotton's structure.
A Canadian study found that university-educated white-collar women experience significant increases in blood pressure due to office stress and large family responsibilities. The research revealed a persistent effect of these factors on blood pressure throughout the day, evening, and night.
A recent study found that women's social support is more effective than men's in reducing both men's and women's blood pressure under stress. The researchers discovered that female listeners provided a modest systolic blood pressure increase of 25mmHg, while male listeners caused an average increase of 32mmHg.
Researchers found that stressed caregivers caring for Alzheimer's patients have impaired immune function, including reduced lymphocyte production and elevated stress hormone levels. This vulnerability can lead to increased illness duration and severity.
A French medical researcher claims that moderate caffeine consumption does not lead to addiction, but rather increases alertness and energy. However, high doses of caffeine can trigger functional activity in the brain's reward system, leading to potential negative effects such as anxiety and depression.
Researchers discovered that Mexican women who saw a PMS video experienced severe symptoms, including moderate and severe pain, after viewing the videotape. The study suggests that being aware of the syndrome may exacerbate premenstrual stress syndrome in women with higher levels of education.
Researchers at University at Buffalo discovered that aerosol clusters can amplify chemical reactions, creating carcinogenic by-products from benign reagents. The study may provide a better understanding of how air pollution forms and inform regulation strategies.
Scientists Nori Yamaguchi and Harry Gibson have developed a reversible process to form supramolecular polymers, which can be used to create fibers or transport target molecules. The polymers are formed through hydrogen bonding and can be undone at the molecular level using heat or pH.
Researchers have developed a new MRI technology that uses xenon gas to generate high-resolution images of the heart and lungs in living laboratory rats. The system detects signals from polarized xenon molecules, allowing for direct measurement of blood flow through organs.
A University of Iowa study found that patients with schizophrenia who had frequent social interaction lived on average 25 percent longer than those with little or no interaction. The researchers also discovered that married patients lived somewhat longer than unmarried patients.