Researchers found that black-headed duck eggs are often rejected from host nests of red-gartered and red-fronted coot species, which employ defenses against their own species' brood parasites. This rejection is due to coots' adaptations to counter intraspecific brood parasitism, leaving the ducks evolutionarily stranded.
A recent study found that combining ultrasound with tissue plasminogen activator (t-PA) therapy significantly improves outcomes for patients suffering from ischemic strokes. The results show a 49% increase in dramatic clinical improvement and significant blockage reduction compared to traditional t-PA treatment alone.
A team of UCR researchers led by Daniel R. Gallie found that reducing ethylene production through ACC synthase increases drought tolerance in corn plants. The study suggests a promising approach to help farmers adapt to changing environmental conditions.
Researchers identified four severity classifications of chronic rhinosinusitis, including patients with polyps and high levels of eosinophils having the worst disease. The study suggests using a 'fingerprint of inflammation' obtained from a simple blood test to categorize patients and guide treatment.
Researchers used MRI to study salt crystallisation in model systems and found that it causes damage in materials with small pores. The study provides new insights into the mechanism behind salt damage in building materials and stones.
Research refutes old idea that dinosaurs were declining in diversity during their time on Earth. Early dinosaur diversity increased dramatically throughout the Cretaceous period, reaching 245 genera.
Research papers in Geophysical Research Letters highlight advancements in measuring ocean conveyor belt circulation, tracing large-scale pollution from space, analyzing the energy of strong thunderstorms, and improving space weather predictions using recent satellite data.
A European network aims to enhance coordination of innovation-driven research in catalysis and sustainable chemistry. The initiative seeks to increase efficiency and strengthen the field's position on the European research agenda.
A study by Cornell University researchers found that apple phenolic extracts can protect nerve cells from oxidative stress. Quercetin, a major flavanoid in apples, was shown to be the most effective antioxidant in protecting against neurotoxicity induced by hydrogen peroxide.
Researchers found a mutation in the LRRK2 gene that plays a central role in developing Parkinson's disease and other neurodegenerative disorders. The discovery has major implications for understanding mechanisms of these diseases and potentially leading to curative treatments.
Research suggests that abdominal fat is more closely associated with disability than overall body fat, even among normal-weight individuals. The study, which followed over 16,000 participants for nine years, found that high levels of abdominal fat increased the risk of difficulty performing daily tasks.
Researchers from Penn State found that eating more water-rich foods and choosing reduced-fat options can lead to significant weight loss. In two studies, obese women who followed low-energy-density diets lost an average of 21 pounds compared to those on restricted fat intake diets.
A recent study found that nearly 14% of seniors change physicians in a single year, with most doing so involuntarily. Maintaining continuity of care with a primary care physician is associated with better health outcomes at lower costs.
Out-of-hospital intubation may be more harmful than helpful for patients with severe head injuries. Patients who are intubated prior to hospital arrival have a higher risk of death and neurologic impairment compared to those intubated in the hospital.
A multidisciplinary team of investigators will track adolescent smoking patterns and predictors, including emotional well-being and social interactions, to identify factors influencing teen smoking behaviors. The study aims to improve prevention and treatment programs for teen smokers.
Researchers at Rice University developed a new wave guide technology that enables terahertz sensing capabilities in confined spaces. This innovation could aid applications such as explosive detection, cancer screening, and quality control, offering unique advantages over existing technologies.
Researchers found that ultrasound therapy increased clot clearance by 26% compared to tPA alone, with 70% of patients experiencing complete or partial clearance. The study used a hand-held extracranial ultrasound device to deliver heavy doses of the clot-busting drug tPA directly to blood clots.
A recent study reveals that while there has been an increase in the number of new nurses entering the workforce, the nursing shortage is still far from being solved. The research suggests that a significant expansion in the number of graduates from baccalaureate programs will be needed to meet future demands.
Researchers argue that running played a key role in human evolution, favoring the survival of early humans who could cover long distances. The study identified 26 traits that enhanced running ability, such as leg and foot structure and skeletal features that make the body stronger and more stable.
A new study found that fine particulate matter in Hong Kong's air is four times the U.S. standard, with significant contributions from industrial activity in Guangdong Province, China. The think tank recommends implementing emission controls and upgrading vehicle standards to reduce pollution levels.
Phytoplankton distribution varies between hemispheres, with greater impact on climate in southern hemisphere due to higher DMS flux and species producing more DMS. The effect of plankton on Earth's temperature is small compared to other compounds like carbon dioxide and CFCs.
A study published in the Royal Society journal explores the impact of global warming on common bird populations. The research demonstrates that the force distributions in random materials can be accurately described by an analogue of the Second Law of Thermodynamics, revealing new applications for this fundamental principle.
A study of over 1,200 men who have sex with men found a 57% prevalence rate of anal HPV infection, which did not change with age or city. High-risk HPV types were present in 26% of infected men, suggesting a high risk for anal cancer.
A recent study by the University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center has found no link between taxane-based chemotherapies and pneumonitis in breast cancer patients. The research, led by Tse-Kuan Yu, analyzed 189 breast cancer patients who received either radiation therapy or chemotherapy followed by radiation.
A four-year project aims to understand how androgen influences the skeleton, with potential implications for stress fracture prevention and treating osteoporosis. The study examines the effects of androgen therapy on bone health in both men and women.
A study of 189 breast cancer patients found no association between paclitaxel chemotherapy and radiation pneumonitis. No hospitalized cases or deaths from the side effect occurred, regardless of treatment group.
BRCA1 mutations are found in only 5% of breast and ovarian cancers, but loss-of-function mutations can significantly increase cancer risk. Researchers review preclinical and clinical evidence to determine if BRCA1 function can predict chemotherapy response, highlighting the need for prospective studies.
Penn State researchers are conducting a project to develop a technique for detecting mine voids using seismic signals. The initiative aims to locate and record voids near existing coal mine tunnels, which could help prevent flooding incidents like the Quecreek disaster.
Researchers at Ohio State University have identified a new protein, Pirh2, that diminishes the activity of p53, a powerful tumor suppressor. Overexpression of Pirh2 was found in 84% of human lung cancers and 93% of mouse tumors, suggesting its potential role in cancer development.
Dr. Veillette's team identified a basic mechanism controlling antibody production in B lymphocytes, which are hyperactive in autoimmune diseases. This breakthrough provides new therapeutic targets for reducing attacks on organs like the pancreas and kidneys.
A study by Kandarian found that muscle atrophy caused by prolonged disuse requires the involvement of nfêb1 and bcl3 genes. The researchers also discovered that NSAIDs like aspirin may partially moderate atrophy, offering a potential therapeutic approach to prevent muscle loss.
A randomized trial found that computerized standing orders for influenza and pneumococcal vaccines significantly increased vaccine administration rates compared to physician reminders. Patients with standing orders received vaccinations 12-24% more often, highlighting the effectiveness of this approach in improving preventive care.
A large-scale study conducted from 1987 to 2000 found a strong link between short-term changes in ground-level ozone and mortality in 95 urban areas, covering 40% of the US population. The study suggests that reducing daily ozone levels by 10 parts per billion could save up to 4,000 lives annually.
A new study suggests that increased selenium levels in the blood are associated with a lower risk of developing colorectal adenoma recurrence. The research pooled data from three randomized trials and found that participants in the highest quartile for blood selenium levels had a 34% decreased risk of developing a new adenoma.
The coelacanth, an ancient fish with unchanged physical features since 360 million years ago, has a sequenced genome that reveals its slow evolution and genetic similarities with land animals. The genome analysis may hold the key to understanding how life transitioned from water to land.
Scientists at LUCA Technologies have confirmed the presence of living methanogenic organisms in coalfields, producing methane in real-time. This finding suggests a potential long-term source of renewable natural gas, replacing finite energy resources.
Two studies provide critical information on XLP, revealing that SAP regulates T helper cell cytokine production and modulates signaling molecules involved in immune response. Defects in this pathway contribute to XLP's pathology.
Researchers constructed a phylogenetic tree using only 16,000 protein and DNA sequences from green plants, demonstrating the power of data-driven approaches in biology. By leveraging sequence databases, scientists can now refine their understanding of biodiversity with greater precision.
Mazziotti's new method accurately represents electrons' positions in molecules, reducing computer power requirements. The breakthrough has applications in medicine, where it could aid in treating sickle-cell anemia, and in superconductivity research.
Research found that neonatal infections in low-birth-weight infants are associated with impaired neurodevelopmental outcomes, including cerebral palsy, vision impairment, and cognitive delays. Infected infants also had impaired head growth, a predictor of poor neurodevelopmental outcome.
Researchers at UC Davis have developed multipurpose nanocables that can detect the quantity of toxins in a sample, allowing for more accurate measurements. These nanocables also enable the creation of large surface area arrays, which could be used to efficiently capture sunlight and improve solar cell efficiency.
A study found a significant association between short-term ozone exposure and an increase in daily death rates, particularly among older adults. The researchers estimated that a 10-ppb increase in ozone was associated with an additional 3,767 premature deaths annually in urban communities.
A study found that Concord grape juice increased high-density lipoprotein (HDL) levels and decreased inflammatory markers, including soluble CD40 ligand, in patients with coronary artery disease. The positive effects were attributed to the polyphenolic compounds in the grape juice.
A wireless distributed sensor network simulates synchronized calling behavior of frogs and cicadas. The system exhibits complex group behaviors, including the emergence of new calling cycles and the recruitment of nodes to these cycles.
A survey of pediatricians found that only a few were knowledgeable about complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) therapies, with most citing concerns about side effects or delays in seeking medical care. Despite this, 87% of patients had asked their pediatrician about CAM therapies in the past three months.
Researchers at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital found that white matter lesions caused by treatment can mimic cancer, leading to unnecessary treatment. The study also linked WMLs to a decline in neurocognitive function in children with brain tumors.
Researchers found that about one-quarter of stock prices rise above the initial bid price, suggesting investors are savvy in pricing target firm stocks. The study also showed that market speculation spreads can predict deal duration and final prices.
Research suggests that nicotine receptors in the brain play a crucial role in antidepressant medication's effectiveness. The study found that blocking these receptors can accelerate emotional relief, particularly for patients who are suicidal or unresponsive to current treatments.
A study of 95 US cities found that ground-level ozone is associated with a 0.52% daily increase in deaths, with an average daily ozone level of 26ppb. A 10ppb reduction in daily ozone could save nearly 4,000 lives.
The UC Davis Center for Geotechnical Modeling has been upgraded with a 30-foot radius centrifuge, enabling researchers to simulate pressures deep in the ground and study soil liquefaction during earthquakes. The network allows for remote collaboration and data sharing among researchers across the country.
A study suggests that consuming antioxidant-rich foods, particularly apples, may reduce the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease. Quercetin, found in apples' skin, has shown stronger protective effects against neurotoxicity compared to vitamin C.
A study of extremely low birth weight infants found that 65% developed at least one infection during hospitalization, leading to developmental delays or impairments in 47%. Infants with meningitis were more likely to have neurological impairments.
A $2 million NSF grant enables researchers to develop real-time soil monitoring technologies, reducing the impact of fertilizers and greenhouse gases on the environment. The project aims to determine best management practices for California agriculture while minimizing harm to the environment.
Academic leaders express frustration with restricted access to research, citing difficulties in accessing articles from NIH-funded science. A six-month delay is seen as sufficient to address concerns about publishers' costs, while a compromise between the academy and publishing industry is proposed to ensure open access.
ELBW preterm infants who develop infections are at risk of adverse neurodevelopmental outcomes, including cerebral palsy, low Bayley Scales scores, and vision impairment. Infections during the neonatal period also lead to impaired head growth, a known predictor of poor neurodevelopmental outcome.
A new study found that computer-assisted standing orders for nurses resulted in significantly better adult immunization rates compared to traditional physician reminders. The study showed that 42% of patients in the standing order group received influenza vaccine, while only 30% in the physician reminder group did so.
Geologists challenged the idea that the Tibetan plateau is losing elevation as it spreads out over India. Instead, new research suggests the plateau is being compressed between the Indian subcontinent and the North China block, causing Tibet to split like an orange squeezed by a vise.
Researchers find that blocking annexin 2 or eliminating it from cell surfaces can prevent HIV infection in macrophages. Annexin 2 helps the virus deliver its genetic material into cells by binding to a surface component on the virus.
A study of 44 adolescents with same-sex parents found they developed positively in school and psychologically, with no significant differences compared to peers with opposite-sex parents. The quality of parental relationships was more important than the gender of a parent's romantic partner.
A recent review of health journals found limited evidence on reducing health disparities, but identified a significant association between high-dose steroid use and increased cardiovascular risk. The review also provided new guidelines for blood thinner dosing in older patients with atrial fibrillation.