Researchers have directly measured light from two confirmed extrasolar planets, HD 209458b and TrES-1, using NASA's Spitzer Space Telescope. The gas giants, similar to Jupiter, orbit close to their stars and radiate strongly in the infrared, with temperatures reaching up to 1,574 degrees Fahrenheit.
A recent MIT survey found that the US public is poorly informed about climate change and carbon capture and storage (CCS), a key mitigation technology. The survey revealed that only 17% of respondents had heard or read about CCS in the past year, while many were unaware of other energy-related solutions like hydrogen cars and wind energy.
Patients with obstructive sleep apnea are at much higher risk of cardiac death during sleep, with peaks occurring between 10pm and 6am. The general population's lowest risk period is actually the most vulnerable time for those without sleep apnea.
Researchers developed a system that predicted six major earthquakes along East Pacific Rise transform faults using sensor data and foreshock detection. The study suggests short-term earthquake prediction may be feasible under certain circumstances.
Researchers Marcel Just and Tom Mitchell use computer models to interpret fMRI brain scans, developing a computational theory of brain activity during language processing. They also demonstrate how reading different words and sentences influences brain activity and identify specific brain regions involved in language comprehension.
Researchers found that higher levels of Actinomyces naeslundii gsp2 in pregnant women's saliva were linked to lower birth weights and preterm deliveries. In contrast, higher levels of Lactobacillus casei during pregnancy positively affected birth weight.
A NASA study suggests that soot may be contributing to the changes observed near the North Pole, including accelerated sea ice and snow melting, as well as altering atmospheric temperatures. The research found that a significant portion of soot comes from South Asia, with smaller contributions from other regions.
Researchers have created a novel Raman laser that combines the pump source and material into a single device, enhancing efficiency by 30% and reducing size. The 'matryoshka' design enables tuning of the pump laser radiation to strong electronic resonance in the material, boosting gain by five orders of magnitude.
Researchers developed plant-derived antibodies that protect against anthrax infection, providing immediate protection and a safe alternative to traditional vaccination methods. The plant-produced antibodies can be used before or after exposure and are stable for long periods, making them an attractive solution for stockpiling.
Washington University will receive funding to develop a mobile science classroom that provides interactive experiences and exhibits for elementary school students. The program aims to improve science education in underrepresented public schools, aligning with Missouri standards.
UNH has launched its second spinout company, Xemed LLC, backed by three new NIH grants to commercialize a lung imaging technology that could benefit millions suffering from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. The technology allows MRI to produce a clear picture of the lungs' interior, enabling doctors to see which parts are affected.
A review of studies published in Psychosomatic Medicine found that physically fit people have a reduced risk of heart attacks, while inactive cardiac patients who engage in vigorous activity are at higher risk. Strong emotions and stress can also trigger heart attacks in vulnerable individuals.
Lei Xu's experiment reveals that low atmospheric pressure affects the splash process, leading to a new understanding of fundamental mechanisms for splash formation. The discovery has implications for applications in technological situations where splashing occurs, such as combustion and ink-jet printing.
A review of 29 studies found that 19.6% of chronic fatigue syndrome patients improved with inactive treatments, lower than expected figures for other conditions. Behavioral therapy and graded exercise therapy show benefits, but high patient expectations and a perceived physical origin may hinder treatment outcomes.
A study found that HIV-positive women with normal cervical cytology and negative HPV test results had a similar low cumulative incidence of abnormal lesions compared to HIV-negative women. The authors suggest considering psychosocial costs of positive HPV tests in these women before adjusting screening intervals
Cancer cells' DNA is tightly compacted, making it resistant to enzyme digestion, unlike healthy tissue. The study's findings suggest new diagnostic and therapeutic tools for distinguishing different types of tumors.
Researchers at Ohio State University discovered that precursors to natural killer cells are found in lymph nodes, not bone marrow. This finding may offer new insights into manipulating NK cells to enhance immune responses to cancer.
A new type of T lymphocyte called the Tn cell has been discovered by researchers at U.Va. that regulates neutrophil production. The process is known as the neutrophil turnstile, which uses negative feedback to adjust neutrophil numbers in response to bacterial presence.
A study of 611 low-income women found that abuse and recent HIV diagnosis significantly increase the risk of suicidal thoughts, attempts, depression, and anxiety. Healthcare providers should routinely screen for mental health issues in these vulnerable populations.
Scientists have successfully grown functional fat cells in a laboratory using a new microscopic three-dimensional scaffolding. The discovery may lead to breakthroughs in treating type II diabetes and could provide a source of transplantable organs.
Researchers have discovered that treated fabric can effectively kill anthrax spores, a significant finding in the field of antimicrobial textiles. The treatment shows promise for various applications, including clothing and outdoor gear, providing a potential solution for exposure to microorganisms.
A recent survey in Sudan found high mortality rates among internally displaced persons, with acute malnutrition prevalent in some areas. The study highlights the urgent need for humanitarian efforts to ensure acceptable living standards for these populations.
A University of Warwick study found a significant positive effect of spouse's life satisfaction on individual's life satisfaction for married couples. However, the same test for cohabiting couples revealed no robust evidence of joint determination of life satisfaction.
A recent review found a strong relationship between psychological problems, particularly depression, and insomnia in HIV patients. Healthcare workers should prioritize diagnosing and treating anxiety and depression to prevent insomnia and its disabling effects on patients with HIV.
Researchers found that infant vernier acuity is comparable to that of adults, with infants able to see small differences in contrast almost as well. This similarity suggests that vernier testing could be a sensitive test for visual disorders and a potential substitute for eye chart testing.
A retrospective cohort study of 292 healthcare professionals found that family history, co-existing psychiatric disorders, and opioid pain-killer use significantly increase the risk of relapse. State physician health programs should consider specialized treatment approaches to address these concerns.
Purdue University researchers discovered that some plants can revert to normal traits carried by their grandparents, bypassing genetic abnormalities carried by both parents. This challenges accepted scientific beliefs and may prompt textbook revisions.
The American Academy of Neurology has established a definition for the persistent vegetative state, a condition characterized by minimal responsiveness and limited brain activity. This definition provides clarity and consistency in the diagnosis and care of patients in this state.
Astronomers have detected periodic X-ray variations in a galaxy, suggesting a massive black hole with a mass of approximately 10,000 Suns. This finding provides strong evidence for the existence of intermediate-mass black holes, which could bridge the gap between stellar-mass and supermassive black holes.
A retrospective study found that African-American women with advanced endometrial cancer have more aggressive tumors, leading to poor survival rates compared to Caucasian patients. The study suggests biologic differences in gene expression may underlie this racial disparity.
Researchers at Joslin Diabetes Center have identified genetic regions involved in autoimmune diseases, including type 1 diabetes. The study found a chromosomal region where T-cells were given the green light to attack beta cells, leading to insulitis and later type 1 diabetes.
A study by Dr. Max Schanzenbach finds that the Feeney Amendment's constraints on federal judges were unnecessary to keep prison sentences between offenders similar, as federal sentencing practices did not change appreciably over the relevant time period.
The researchers designed a microfluidic fuel cell that functions without a physical barrier to separate the fuel and oxidant, utilizing laminar flow instead. This design offers several advantages, including fewer parts and simpler design, as well as compatibility with alkaline chemistry.
A study of 292 health care professionals found that a family history of substance use disorder, major opioid use, and coexisting psychiatric disorders significantly increased the risk of relapse. The study suggests that intensive monitoring and tailored treatment plans can help prevent relapse among high-risk healthcare professionals.
A new study suggests that family physicians can effectively use a definitive blood test to screen for actual allergies in patients with hay fever or allergic rhinitis. The test evaluates the reaction of Immunoglobulin E (IgE) to specific allergens, such as pollen from grass and trees.
Researchers at Emory University Health Sciences Center have identified a new tumor suppressor gene, ATBF1, which inhibits cell proliferation. This finding suggests that ATBF1 may play a role in the development of prostate cancer and potentially other types of cancers.
Researchers found that phagocytes reduce IL-23 production after ingesting apoptotic neutrophils, leading to decreased inflammatory response. Abnormal neutrophils with impaired migration resulted in elevated IL-23 and IL-17 levels.
Researchers developed new methods for diagnosing cancer based on genomic DNA analysis, which detects changes in chromatin structure and cell interaction with the microenvironment. These findings may lead to the design of new cancer therapeutic agents.
Researchers find that moderate light exposure causes complete retinal degeneration within a month, but lower levels cause slower and reversible damage. This study provides new insights into the interaction of genetics and environment in causing eye disease and suggests potential treatments for preventing blindness.
Researchers discovered that targeting mutant B-Raf protein can prevent the spread of melanoma and halt tumor growth. Lowering mutant B-Raf activity reduced melanoma development in human cells, providing a potential breakthrough for treating this aggressive form of skin cancer.
The new guidelines emphasize the importance of timely thrombolysis and PCI, with a focus on reducing delays in treatment. They also highlight the benefits of primary PCI over thrombolysis in certain situations.
A study found that 76% of women would be willing to accept a cervical cancer vaccine for themselves, while 67% of mothers with daughters would consent to have their child vaccinated. The main reasons for non-acceptance were unknown side effects and the belief that minors are not sexually active.
Researchers used the FDA's MAUDE database to analyze cochlear implant complications and trends over two periods. They found device failure was the most commonly reported complication, with a significant decrease in malfunction from pre-1998 to 2002.
A new study published in the Journal of Clinical Investigation suggests that low-dose aspirin therapy may be a viable treatment option for pre-eclampsia during pregnancy. The research team created a mouse model that mimics low-dose aspirin therapy and found no significant complications, paving the way for further treatment options.
A Boston University team found an association between naturally high levels of blood cholesterol and improved mental functioning, including visual organization, memory, attention, and concentration. However, the benefits were modest and did not outweigh the risks of heart disease and stroke associated with high cholesterol.
Asthma sufferers experience worsened symptoms when infected with the common cold virus, as their cells replicate more extensively and fail to produce interferon-beta, a potent anti-viral protein. This defect leads to increased pro-inflammatory molecule secretion, recruiting asthma-inducing cells into the lungs.
Researchers discovered that bacteria's pili induce changes in host gene expression, keeping host cells alive longer. The study found that artificial mechanical pull on the host cell membrane triggers a signaling cascade to affect host gene expression.
A new online self-help technology is being launched to tackle eating disorders, particularly bulimia nervosa. The computer-based package aims to provide accessible treatment options for adolescents and young adults affected by the condition.
The new Local-Electrode Atom-Probe (LEAP) tomograph allows researchers to study the nanostructure and chemical composition of materials at an unprecedented level. By analyzing the structure and chemical identity of steel, scientists can design stronger materials with improved properties.
Most cancer survivors can return to work after treatment, but a minority face ongoing problems requiring comprehensive support services. The study found that similar numbers of men and women stop working during treatment, with the lowest rates among those with certain types of cancer.
Researchers at Imperial College London have solved the structure of the Foot-and-Mouth Disease Virus enzyme, revealing its atomic details and potential target for anti-viral drugs. The discovery could lead to the development of a vaccine that can be administered quickly to control outbreaks.
A study of 54 patients with ALD who underwent liver transplants found that those who resumed alcohol consumption had significantly lower 10-year survival rates compared to abstinent patients. Higher mortality rates among relapse group were attributed to increased risk of cancers and cardiovascular events.
UCSF scientists Joseph DeRisi and Kevan Shokat have made significant contributions to understanding infectious diseases like SARS and malaria, and are now working to develop new treatments. Their research focuses on protein kinases, which play a crucial role in cell signaling and disease development.
The Manhattan Tobacco Cessation Center grant aims to promote systematic screening and counseling for all tobacco users. The program will decrease smoking rates, improve health outcomes, and save lives by linking smokers to evidence-based treatment through partnerships with healthcare providers.
Scientists at Los Alamos National Laboratory have developed a novel method for detecting fingerprints based on the chemical elements present in fingerprint residue. The technique, known as micro-X-ray fluorescence, detects sodium, potassium, and chlorine elements that are often present in human fingerprints.
A recent study found that hospitals are more willing to partner with quality improvement organizations (QIOs), with over 90% reporting QIO interventions had a positive impact. QIOs provide educational materials, benchmark data, and hospital performance data, leading to improved quality of care.
Researchers study electron hopping in magnetic materials to understand macroscopic effects and predict material properties. Techniques like inelastic x-ray scattering reveal energy needed for electron movement, which could lead to optimized spintronics and innovative technologies.
The US healthcare system exhibits both strengths and failings, with private market competition driving inequality, inefficiency, and high costs. Researchers explore the role of corporate interests in shaping health care markets, organizational forces, and clinical practice guidelines.
Researchers have developed a new technology that analyzes breath to detect cytokines, proteins released by cells during an infection. In studies on pigs and human-exhaled breath samples, they were able to identify elevated cytokine levels in infected individuals before visible symptoms appeared.
HHMI has tapped two Long Island researchers, Scott Lowe and Gregory Hannon, as among the nation's most promising scientists. The Institute is investing over $300 million in their research over the next seven years.