A new approach to designing smart structures has been developed, using embedded systems with microprocessors and sensors. The system allows for scalability without increasing weight, power consumption, or cost, making it a promising solution for industries such as aerospace and automotive.
Researchers discover that metals like iron are essential for the synthesis of a biological matrix in ocean mussels. This finding could lead to the development of powerful adhesives and antifouling coatings.
Research suggests that preeclampsia may decrease the risk of preterm delivery when a woman smokes, but negative effects persist even without clinical preeclampsia. Abnormal implantation of the fertilized egg in the uterus may also continue to affect pregnancy outcomes.
Research suggests a link between mild vitamin C deficiency and increased blood vessel stiffness in pregnant rats, potentially exacerbating preeclampsia risk. Pregnant women with a history of preeclampsia face an elevated chance of developing the disorder again in subsequent pregnancies.
Breast cancer researchers found that registry data accuracy is higher for hospital-based services than ambulatory services, suggesting registries can improve cancer care quality. Additionally, a study suggests blocking growth factor receptors may suppress regional metastases but not distant lung metastases.
Researchers found that 6-month-old hearing infants consistently preferred American Sign Language to pantomime. The infants spent more time looking at ASL than pantomime, even when given the freedom to look elsewhere. This study expands on previous findings of infants' sensitivity to spoken language and may indicate a universal preferen...
Recent medical press releases have been found to often exaggerate results, fail to acknowledge study limitations, and lack transparency. The authors suggest that journals can improve the quality of press releases through enhanced editorial oversight and standardized presentation formats.
A retrospective study of 21,232 farmers in Xuanwei, China found that switching from unvented to vented stoves resulted in a 41% reduction in lung cancer risk for men and 46% for women. Indoor air pollution levels decreased by 65% with the new stove installations.
Spending on prescription drugs grew by 16.9% in 2001, with 56.8% of the increase attributed to higher prices and use of more expensive medications. The average wholesale price rose by $85.42 to $592.05. In contrast, the company forecasts a 15.9% annual spending growth rate for 2002, driven by new generics and moderation in utilization.
Scientists found that climate change from greenhouse gases may greatly slow ozone recovery due to increased water vapor and temperature changes in the upper atmosphere. Ozone levels are expected to reach their lowest point by around 2006, according to NASA research.
Researchers at Rutgers University have created a new approach to increase protein content in corn without using genetically modified organisms (GMOs). The discovery has the potential to improve nutritional health in Third World countries where corn is a staple food.
Scientists discover nitric oxide's active regulatory role in responding to tissue oxygen needs, enabling red blood cells to regulate blood flow. The findings explain why certain treatments fail or lead to adverse effects, offering new avenues for treating disorders such as sickle cell disease and pulmonary hypertension.
Researchers found that rats depleted of salt show unusual growth of brain cells, with a 30-35% increase in neuron length and branching. This suggests an ability for neurons to make more connections.
A recent study by Ohio State University researchers found that semiconductor companies can improve their technological performance through outsourcing, but only under specific circumstances. The study identified critical characteristics of the end-product and production process that predict successful outsourcing outcomes.
Scientists have solved the long-standing riddle of how nitroglycerin works by discovering an enzyme called mitochondrial aldehyde dehydrogenase (mALDH) that breaks down the drug. The team found that mALDH causes nitric oxide to be released from nitroglycerin, leading to tolerance in patients.
Researchers analyzed care in US, Australia, Canada, and UK to find similar survival rates for low-birth-weight babies. The US spent more on neonatal intensive care but less on reproductive and prenatal care.
Researchers developed a test to predict which patients with locally advanced breast cancer are likely to respond to chemotherapy, and found it was accurate 100% of the time. The test used radiotracer uptake and washout rates to identify patients who would benefit from specific drugs to boost their response.
A new radiosurgery protocol using the Gamma Knife is being tested to eliminate epileptic seizures in patients with temporal lobe epilepsy. The treatment has shown promising results, with up to 95% effectiveness and significant improvement in quality of life.
Researchers have developed a synthetic guide star system that can correct for atmospheric turbulence in about three fifths of the sky, opening up a much larger portion of the heavens for study. The system uses laser beams to create artificial stars, providing high-quality images of planets, galaxies, and other objects.
MERBoards will provide a new tool to support collaborative processes in Mars Surface Operations, enhancing mission operations with interactive displays and annotation capabilities.
A new journal series aims to educate physicians about individual and systems factors contributing to medical errors. The series analyzes real-life cases, including a study of 17 errors that allowed one patient to receive an invasive procedure intended for another.
A recent study by Ohio State University found that almost one in 13 soft contact lens wearers develop severe corneal abrasions, leading to infections or other problems. The study suggests that optometrists monitor their patients for such abrasions and proper hygiene habits can prevent them.
A study found that RSV prevention in premature infants during their first winter of life can lead to better lung function and fewer respiratory issues. The treatment reduced the risk of RSV infections by 85%, resulting in fewer colds, asthma attacks, and allergies.
A study found that patients who had one-on-one discussions with pharmacists reported using less medication and having fewer medication-related problems. The sessions helped increase communication between patients and their physicians, leading to improved health outcomes.
A new series of articles explores the causes of medical errors, highlighting the limitations of relying solely on patient charts. Increasing the number of reviewers and requiring confidence in negligence can reduce rates of negligent events.
A survey of over 1,750 inner-city teenagers found that education and job opportunities were top priorities for achieving a positive future. The study suggests that focusing on protective factors such as education, jobs, and adult connections can help mitigate the negative effects of urban poverty.
Researchers found that Rockhoppers, the smallest species, swim up to 180 miles or more from their home territory on New Island, putting them at risk of collisions with fishing nets and oil spills. This expansion highlights the need for conservation strategies to reduce conflicts between humans and organisms in the open ocean.
A recent NHLBI-sponsored study found that weight concerns and a drive for thinness significantly increased the risk of teenage girls becoming daily smokers. The study also identified other factors such as stress, poor conduct, and family background that contributed to this risk.
Researchers have developed a new technique that predicts Madden-Julian Oscillations (MJOs), which can provide two-weeks notice for storms. This allows scientists to issue storm warnings weeks earlier than current conventional weather forecasting, supporting sustainable development efforts.
Researchers from Brookhaven National Laboratory found that high concentrations of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in the Houston Ship Channel region contribute to excessive ozone production. The study's findings may lead to more effective regulations for protecting public health.
A new climate study reveals California's increased risk of warmer temperatures, smaller snowpacks, and altered water supplies due to rising carbon dioxide levels. The research offers precise regional specificity and statistical analysis, providing a more reliable basis for planning climate change mitigation strategies.
Scientists at PNNL and the Institute of Immunological Engineering have created unique humanized antibodies to gamma interferon, a protein that triggers autoimmune conditions. These fully humanized antibodies may provide long-term treatment for autoimmune diseases.
A study of 2,005 well-educated women found that one in 10 reported histories of domestic violence, resulting in significant increases in neurological and gynecological problems. The study highlights the need for healthcare professionals to screen for abuse regardless of socioeconomic status.
Researchers at Brown University have discovered that the Arp2/3 protein complex plays a critical role in regulating the first step of human blood clotting. The complex drives platelets to change shape, forming long arms that grab onto other cells and fibrin, ultimately leading to clot formation.
A new drug could provide a non-destructive way to treat blindness in diabetics, blocking the pathway that causes damage. The drug is currently being tested in clinical trials and has been funded by $4.7 million from the US-based JDRF and NHMRC.
Research suggests preeclampsia is associated with increased risk of preterm delivery and later-life hypertension and cardiovascular disease. Elevated sialic acid levels indicate inflammation and are linked to atherosclerosis, suggesting a potential preventive role for aspirin.
A new study of nearly 10,000 adolescents found that children's psychological well-being improves three years before and after a parents' marriage ends, but their test scores remain lower. The researchers suggest that cumulative academic performance contributes to the persistent decline in test scores.
Researchers found that cocaine elevates body temperature by impairing the body's ability to increase skin-blood flow, sweat, and perceive excessive heat stress. Cocaine abuse in hot temperatures increases the risk of serious heat-related injuries, including heat stroke and death.
Researchers have developed a photosensitive silicone intraocular lens that can be adjusted after surgery to eliminate refractive errors. The lens uses low-power light to make precise power adjustments, offering a potential alternative to LASIK surgery for severe myopia and farsightedness.
A study at the Great Lakes meeting revealed that organically-grown oranges contain 30% more vitamin C than conventionally-grown fruits, defying common assumptions. The reason for this difference is unclear but may be attributed to the use of nitrogen fertilizers in conventional farming practices.
Researchers at Advanced Cell Technology successfully transplanted cloned tissues into animals without rejection. The study's findings suggest that nuclear transplantation could provide a limitless supply of immune-compatible cells and organs for regenerative therapies, tackling one of the major challenges in transplantation medicine.
A national study found that only about a quarter of teachers used evidence-based programs, which emphasize social influences knowledge and refusal skills. The study suggests that teachers need resources and support to adopt and implement these effective programs.
Researchers used DNA microarrays to analyze 40% of the fruit fly genome and found that genetic changes are the result of many small contributors. The study's findings suggest that human genetic biases may also be caused by small changes in multiple genes.
Researchers at Boston Children's Hospital used therapeutic cloning to create functional tissue in cows, including heart, muscle, and kidney tissue. The cloned cells showed no rejection response, a promising development for treating diseases with stem cells.
The ACT EAB believes that this research represents an important milestone in demonstrating the feasibility of new therapies for tissue and organ repair. The board has established strict guidelines for human embryo research, including prohibiting culturing of human embryos in vitro for more than 14 days.
The WHO's annual report on global TB control reveals a persistent gap in detection rates, with expanded DOTs and cash injections needed to reach targets. Sex disparities also emerge as a significant issue, with women being infected at a higher rate than men, highlighting the need for tailored research and policies.
A diet rich in phyto-oestrogen-rich foods like soy and whole grains may protect against certain cancers. Jetlag's impact on hormone regulation could increase breast-cancer risk in flight attendants.
Researchers discovered unique genetic differences between lung cancer patients that correlated with cancer relapse rates. A 22-gene cluster was identified as a key predictor of treatment outcome, providing unprecedented insight into individual lung tumors.
Researchers at Penn State have developed a method to increase hydrogen production from fermentation by 43%, utilizing industrial wastewater as feedstock. This approach can potentially make hydrogen a cheaper fuel alternative to gasoline, while also reducing costs for wastewater treatment plants.
Researchers at MIT have created a biodegradable polymer called biorubber that can stretch and snap back into shape, mimicking the elasticity of human organs. This breakthrough material has potential applications in tissue engineering, including heart tissue, blood vessels, and whole organs for transplantation.
Researchers at University of Illinois found that physically active older adults perform better in executive control tasks, which require more conscious effort. The study suggests increased physical activity is beneficial for older adults, improving their cognitive functioning and reaction time.
A long-term study found that habitat fragmentation has a far-reaching impact on rainforests, increasing local extinction rates and altering species richness. To maintain diversity and dynamics, Amazonian nature reserves will need to be very large to withstand human disturbances.
Researchers identify DHH as key player in fetal Leydig cell differentiation, enabling testosterone production. The discovery provides insights into human reproductive disorders resulting from faulty sex determination pathways.
NASA's SHADOZ project has solved a decade-old mystery about the source of Atlantic ozone, revealing a 'wave-one pattern' that is predominantly in the troposphere. The data also show that the tropical tropopause is not a sharp boundary but a 2-mile thick transition layer.
Researchers created genetically engineered mice lacking keratin 17, a structural protein found in hair follicles, to investigate its role in hair growth. The results show that K17 knockout mice display temporary baldness due to hair fragility and premature cell death, but eventually regrow fur at around three weeks old.
Researchers have discovered that adult blood stem cells can function to make blood vessels, a breakthrough that could lead to new treatments for circulatory diseases. The discovery was made using genetically engineered mice with green glowing stem cells, which were able to form new capillary beds in the eyes.
A recent study found that 42% of sexual assault survivors did not receive testing for sexually transmitted diseases or prophylactic medications. The study also showed that survivors over 18 were more likely to be screened, but only 34% received medication recommended by the CDC.
Researchers at Ohio State University have discovered a gene that controls the growth of stomatal cells in plants, which could lead to enhanced crop plant development. The TMM gene is involved in the formation and distribution of stomatal cells on leaf surfaces, and its discovery may provide new insights into stem cell biology.
Researchers at Imperial College London discovered that xenon can block the effects of a glutamate receptor implicated in nerve cell death, potentially preventing damage. The findings have led to clinical trials and the formation of a spin-out company to develop treatments for neurological injuries.
Researchers at U-M have discovered that inflammatory cytokines are the primary cause of graft-versus-host disease, which can be prevented by neutralizing these proteins. The study's findings offer new hope for patients undergoing bone marrow transplants, with human clinical trials currently underway.