Researchers find nitrogen-fixing cyanobacteria in Pacific Ocean water samples near Hawaii, contributing significantly to ocean nitrogen fixation. The newly discovered bacteria are more abundant and active than previously thought, with potential implications for global warming.
A recent study by IBM and researchers found that software-based robotic trading agents ('bots') made seven per cent more cash than people in a commodities market test. The bots used basic strategies to maximize their profit, while humans were given an upper spending limit and minimum sale price.
The grant aims to continue research into breast, prostate, and colorectal cancer's genetic basis using the Hawaii/Los Angeles Multiethnic Cohort Study. The expanded funding will enable the collection of blood samples from over 215,000 participants, providing insights into cancer risks and susceptibilities.
Researchers at UMass have created a new electron microprobe technique that can date specific parts of rocks with greater precision. This method will provide valuable insights into the movement of tectonic plates and the evolution of rocks over time.
The NIAID has awarded a $9 million grant to Celera to rapidly sequence the Anopheles mosquito genome. This initiative will provide scientists with a unique opportunity to study the natural history of malaria by analyzing and comparing the genomes of mosquitoes, humans, and Plasmodium falciparum parasites.
Researchers have found that thalidomide can help patients with myelodysplastic syndrome, a group of disorders affecting the bone marrow and leading to acute myeloid leukemia. The study showed a 20% response rate among patients treated with thalidomide, with some achieving transfusion independence.
Researchers study presolar diamond grains found in meteorites and simulate implantation of ions to test mechanism. The results reveal a bimodal release of noble gases with different temperatures, suggesting at least two events involved in the introduction of xenon.
The AI-powered Author system can generate readable prose, including dialogue and short stories, by analyzing a story plan and applying rules to create grammatically correct sentences. However, it still lacks the ability to discern fact from fiction, which is a significant hurdle before it can be used for hot news reporting.
A new study by Scripps researchers reveals that tiny marine crustaceans called copepods use cannibalism as a mechanism to limit their population. The study found that egg mortality in copepod species Calanus finmarchicus is directly related to the abundance of females in the population, suggesting a self-regulating mechanism.
Scientists have found a new source of nitrogen-fixing bacteria in the Pacific Ocean near Hawaii, which could contribute significantly to ocean nitrogen fixation. The newly discovered bacteria are active at greater depths and longer time periods than known marine cyanobacteria, with potential implications for global warming.
Researchers at Rockefeller University have discovered that a persistent lineage of Staphylococcus aureus is exceptionally adept at acquiring resistance to antibiotics. This 'Iberian' clone, first identified in 1986, has spread globally and is resistant to multiple antibiotics, posing a significant threat to public health.
A Yale University study found that tracking unexplained illness and death can aid in identifying emerging infectious diseases. The research compared two surveillance methods, finding prospective surveillance to be 32% more sensitive than retrospective evaluation.
Researchers at INEEL have developed a revolutionary Super Hard Steel coating with unparalleled hardness properties, surpassing existing commercial coatings in wear and corrosion resistance. The coating can withstand extreme conditions, including high velocity blasting, and is nearly impossible to remove.
Russian scientists have developed a plant growth stimulator that can increase grass growth rate by 40% under controlled conditions, reducing the 18-month wait for harvest. Field tests are underway to assess its effectiveness in cleaning up oil-contaminated fields and agrochemicals.
A study by Ohio University health psychologists found that first-time blood donors who used an audiovisual program were less likely to experience symptoms of feeling faint. The program, which included 3D visuals and upbeat music, was more effective in distracting blunters from their stressors than monitors who received no distraction.
Researchers found that adolescents and young adults accounted for a relatively high proportion of all cases of meningococcal meningitis. The study revealed that infection in this age group led to death more often than expected due to higher rates of smoking, ecchymoses, and septic shock.
A team of UMass microbiologists led by Derek Lovley has extracted solid gold from water containing dissolved gold using iron-reducing microbes. The process involves the transfer of electrons to form a more valuable metal form, resulting in the formation of gold deposits.
Indiana University Professor David Shiffrin has been awarded the $100,000 Rumelhart Prize for his work on human memory and cognition. His findings have had a significant impact on the field of psychology, with many cited works continuing to influence research.
A study by Penn State researchers found that quaking aspen groves have declined by 30% in the last 50 years due to environmental changes such as fire suppression, livestock grazing, and increased herbivore populations. The unique history of the Lake Tahoe Basin also plays a role in this decline.
Researchers at Yale University have conducted a controlled study on guanfacine, finding it to be an effective treatment for children with ADHD and tic disorders. The study showed significant improvement in symptoms, including a 37% increase in total score on the ADHD Rating Scale compared to placebo.
Astronomers have detected the imprint of neutral atoms on light from a distant quasar, providing a glimpse into the early universe. The observation reveals that complex atoms such as carbon, nitrogen, oxygen, and silicon were formed in the first stars and quasars, constraining the timing of the universe's reionization.
The report proposes differential pricing as a solution to bridge the gap between drug makers and activists. However, its implementation is uncertain, with experts disagreeing on how it should be set up or implemented.
A recent Duke University Medical Center study found that women and the elderly remain underrepresented in cardiovascular clinical trials, with only 25% of trials including women and 9% including patients over 75 years old. This underrepresentation undermines evidence-based care for all cardiac patients.
Researchers tested new electro-mechanical actuator technology in a hot-fire test series, demonstrating its potential for future spacecraft propulsion systems. The successful test aimed to increase safety and reduce costs for space travel by reducing propellant flow rates and stresses on the actuators.
A recent study suggests that surgical teams with better teamwork learn new procedures significantly faster than those without. The research found that hospitals with more cumulative experience and better team communication had faster learning curves, while those with less experienced teams took longer to master new procedures.
A 2-year study found that brief counseling by health professionals significantly increased physical fitness and activity levels in inactive adults, particularly women. The interventions were equally effective for men and women, with a 5% improvement in cardiorespiratory fitness.
Shiffrin's work has evolved over 35 years, developing Bayesian approaches to model human memory, attention, and learning. His theories have been widely recognized with numerous awards and publications.
A study of 13,958 Canadian women found that the median time from screening to first assessment was 2.6 weeks and to diagnosis was 3.7 weeks. Women with breast cancer waited shorter times than those with benign findings. However, even with expedited investigations, 10% of women with breast cancer still waited over 12 weeks for a diagnosis.
Scientists have discovered a natural method to track Atlantic salmon using strontium isotopes, which can reveal the fish's origin and migration patterns. This discovery could provide valuable insights into salmon habitat restoration efforts and inform more effective conservation strategies.
Researchers find that human population growth is slowing due to increased birth rates being offset by negative feedback from crowding and resource depletion. The world population is expected to reach 10-12 billion around 2100, despite a near doubling in numbers.
A large study has established a connection between being overweight and earlier-than-average puberty in white girls, but found a weaker link in black girls. Researchers suggest that genetic or environmental factors may be at play in the latter group.
Researchers are using new technology to measure coastal erosion in the UK, with a focus on the North Yorkshire coastline. They are creating highly accurate 3D computer models that detail when and where erosion is most likely to occur.
A study by University of Michigan doctoral student Miroslav Kummel found that plants associate with different fungi depending on light conditions, suggesting a choice-based mechanism for nutrient exchange. This discovery could have implications for the timber industry and our understanding of plant-fungus interactions.
Researchers at PNNL and the US Army Corps of Engineers used an acoustic camera to study fish behavior near a dam, capturing images of individual fish at distances of up to 30 feet. The camera provided detailed information on fish size and shape estimates, expanding understanding of how fish react to structures added to dams.
A novel vaccine has been developed to protect against Leishmaniasis, a disease caused by the single-celled parasite Leishmania. The vaccine targets a component of sand fly saliva, dubbed SP15, which appears to induce natural immune responses in mice.
Parents of children with chronic conditions are less likely to enroll in gatekeeping HMO plans, which are designed to improve care coordination. The study found that after switching to an HMO, kids with chronic illness had fewer visits to specialists and primary care physicians.
A recent Canadian Medical Association Journal study found that 88.5% of patients admitted to hospital with congestive heart failure underwent left ventricular testing, but only 23% received target doses of ACE inhibitors as prescribed in clinical trials. This underdosing rate is lower than previously reported rates in Europe and the US.
Research by Ricardo Carvajal at University of Michigan found a decline in epiphytes on coffee farms with intensive practices. However, even in most intensive plots, 'reservoirs' where epiphytes thrive were discovered, suggesting potential for conservation through targeted planting.
Researchers found that encasing pillows and mattresses with allergen-proof covers, washing bedding weekly, and vacuuming carpets reduced dust mite allergen concentrations. Dry steam cleaning also lowered allergen levels in upholstered furniture.
The Annals series examines complementary and alternative medicine (CAM), classifying hundreds of therapies into a new taxonomy. CAM modalities like herbs, acupuncture, and homeopathy are studied, as well as the social context and effectiveness of these practices.
In a breakthrough study, researchers at The Wistar Institute demonstrated the remarkable regenerative powers of MRL mice in healing heart tissue without drugs or cell transfer. After two months, damaged heart tissue looked normal and functioned well.
A four-year interdisciplinary study has identified young faults at the Oracle site and pinpointed the emissions responsible for the Pythia's trance state as light hydrocarbon gases from bituminous limestone. The study also found ethane, methane, and ethylene in spring water near the Oracle.
Vancouver is facing a high risk of an hepatitis A outbreak due to past infections among street youth, injection drug users, and men who have sex with men. The Canadian Medical Association Journal report highlights the need for vaccination programs to protect these groups.
A population-based study found that the annual rate of potential brain injury was 16 per 10,000 among males and 7 per 10,000 among females. The leading causes of brain injury varied by age, with falls from heights being common among young children and accidents involving motor vehicles or bicycles being common among older teenagers.
The journal launches a series on complementary and alternative medicine (CAM), classifying over 200 therapies into eight categories. ACP-ASIM opposes the legalization of physician-assisted suicide, citing concerns about inadequate care at end-of-life.
The American College of Physicians-American Society of Internal Medicine opposes physician-assisted suicide, considering it a threat to the patient-physician relationship. Instead, they suggest improving access to hospice care, palliative care, and pain management.
Researchers discovered strontium titanate deforms plastically at low stresses and temperatures, contrary to its brittle nature. Detailed analysis reveals the existence of different dislocation core structures, suggesting potential applications in forming or enhancing ceramic properties.
Researchers explore how ecological principles, such as the dilution effect, predict the movement of parasites and diseases in various ecosystems. Studies examine the impact of animal diversity on disease transmission, with findings highlighting the importance of community diversity in preventing the spread of infectious diseases.
Researchers investigate biocontrol insect failures, such as Urophora gallflies failing to control invasive knapweed, while also exploring chemical cues to deter mosquitoes. Additionally, studies on butterflies reveal increased populations following ponderosa pine restoration and nectar flower abundance.
The traditional 'ponderosa pine model' of forest fire management is being questioned due to its limitations. Presenters will present data on the ineffectiveness of prescribed burns in California's shrubland areas and boreal forests, highlighting the dominant role of weather and human demographics in fire regimes.
Researchers examine dam removal's effects on rivers, considering ecological, engineering, social and legal perspectives. The symposium explores how dam removal affects nutrient flow, habitat, and flood patterns, highlighting the need for better restoration strategies.
Researchers analyzed the lifting techniques of over 40 Special Olympics power lifters, finding that the sumo style is safer for the lower back and that better lifters keep the bar closer to their body. The study provides valuable insights for competitive power lifters to improve performance and reduce injury risk.
Researchers will examine climate change's effects on ecosystems, societal perceptions, and natural resources in the United States. Key findings include vulnerabilities of specific regions and possible coping strategies for adapting to projected water and nutrient shortages.
Researchers at Cornell University propose that silver-flourine compounds could exhibit high-temperature superconductivity, building on similarities to oxocuprates. Theoretical predictions are supported by detailed calculations and chemical reasoning, but experimental production will be challenging.
Researchers at Purdue University have created a mathematical model to analyze tire vibrations and identify the components that produce the most noise. The model, which creates a visual representation of the tire's vibration pattern like a fingerprint, will help engineers design quieter tires and reduce highway noise.
A Clemson-led team led by Linda J. Gahan has made a breakthrough in tracking genetically the tobacco budworm's efforts to become resistant to biotechnological pest controls. The discovery opens the door for monitoring resistance mechanisms and management strategies in insect pests.
A study found that physical maladies such as diminished energy and sleep disturbances can reliably indicate depression in the elderly. However, symptoms like work inhibition and weight loss are poor discriminators of depression in older adults due to factors like aging process and ill health.
A new skin patch has shown effective treatment of Parkinson's disease in a large-scale study. Patients who received the medication improved their motor skills by an average of 20-30% compared to those who received a placebo.
The study found that the nucleus accumbens responds proportionally to increasing rewards but not punishments, linking reward-related feelings to this brain area. Increasing reward cues evoked increasing self-rated happiness and nucleus accumbens activity.
Scientists have discovered the genetic and molecular means by which roundworms develop resistance to Bt toxins, which are safe to humans but threaten long-term effectiveness. The researchers identified a galactosyltransferase enzyme as key to toxin recognition, enabling the development of strategies to delay or circumvent resistance.