A two-year study by the University of Wisconsin-Madison found that tailored dietary interventions can improve fruit and vegetable consumption among low-income young adults. The participants who received personalized phone calls and materials showed significant progress in eating five or more servings of fruits and vegetables daily.
Ultra-cold atoms can help researchers understand quantum systems, including superconductivity. The atoms' interactions can be precisely calculated and controlled.
A study of 201 children found that hyperkinetic disorder is associated with a higher risk of family breakdown, with 18% of affected children being removed from their homes. The findings suggest that recognizing and treating hyperactivity in children could help prevent family disruption.
Tissue engineering aims to regenerate human tissue through artificial means, mimicking the body's natural processes. Researchers at U-M School of Dentistry are working on combining therapies to improve tissue engineering outcomes, such as using parathyroid hormone and bone morphogenetic proteins.
Cornell University researchers have developed multimedia teaching tools for neuroscience, including Koé, a CD-ROM that explores sound, and Fruitfly, which delves into neurogenetics. These interactive tools aim to make complex concepts more engaging and accessible for students of all levels.
A decade-long study on water availability in the Yakima River Valley found expected losses to agriculture of $92-163 million by mid-century due to projected snowpack reductions. Climate models predict up to 70% reduction in snowpack for the West Coast, with severe droughts becoming more frequent.
El Nino forecasting can aid in managing high-yield fisheries with boom-and-bust cycles, controlling tropical diseases like mosquito-caused malaria, and protecting marine mammals and other ocean species. By predicting ENSO events nine months in advance, scientists can deploy resources effectively.
Researchers found that mice with leukemia develop a similar DNA methylation pattern as humans, identifying a new gene linked to cancer. The study uses genome-wide sequencing to map tiny bits of DNA and reveals a potential target for intervention.
As climate change intensifies, humans will become more vulnerable to heat-related mortality, air pollution-related illnesses, infectious diseases, and malnutrition. Developing climate forecasts and warning systems can mitigate future health problems, but it's crucial to avoid maladaptation and take proactive measures to minimize risks.
A new study from Georgia Tech and Emory University suggests that the body's response to a combination device may be different and potentially detrimental when multiple components are involved. This can lead to an enhanced immune response, making it more difficult for the device to integrate smoothly into the patient.
The end-Permian extinction was caused by a combination of factors, including volcanic carbon dioxide emissions, which warmed surface ocean water. This reduced the amount of oxygen available in the deep oceans, leading to an increase in hydrogen sulfide production and ultimately, mass extinctions.
The mathematical model developed by Sandra Lee and Marvin Zelen provides quantitative predictions of the mortality benefits of different screening schedules. The study suggests that annual screenings from age 50 to 79 can reduce mortality by 37%, while starting mammograms at age 40 reduces overall risk of death by five percent.
A new Georgia Tech micro-CT imaging technique helps tissue engineers develop better bone grafts by analyzing vascularization and mineralization. The technique provides high-resolution 3D images of bone repair, enabling researchers to optimize implant design and improve bone healing.
Researchers have discovered clear personality traits in dogs, hyenas, and monkeys, which can be measured like human personalities. These findings have implications for animal welfare, matching animals with owners, and exploring the biological causes of temperament.
The Large Hadron Collider (LHC) and International Linear Collider (ILC) are two colossal machines being built to study the ultimate building blocks of matter. The LHC, nearing completion in Geneva, will collide protons with unprecedented energy, aiming to answer questions on mass, dark matter, and dimensions.
Researchers used Doppler radar-like technique to track gas around the center of NGC 4395, measuring a mass less than a million solar masses - about 100 times smaller than others of its type. This discovery provides insight into midsize black holes and their role in galaxy formation.
The study found that only 10% of the original marshes survived as fully functioning wetlands after extensive drainage and irrigation, but also identified areas with high restoration potential.
A new cybersecurity protocol called 'delayed password disclosure' aims to prevent identity authentication attacks on online banks and ad hoc wireless networks. By using this protocol, users can verify their identities without divulging sensitive information, making it difficult for attackers to steal funds or sensitive data.
Researchers are exploring muon radiography to detect hidden burial chambers in the Pyramid of the Sun, track volcanic eruption potential, and identify illicit nuclear materials. The method involves tracking muons passing through objects, allowing for non-invasive detection with minimal radiation exposure.
Scientists are restoring the marshes of Eden in southern Iraq, which were devastated under Saddam Hussein's rule. The project aims to rebuild wetland ecosystems and reacquaint local experts after two decades of isolation.
Stealth attacks on wireless networks pose a significant threat to personal information, online banking, and military communications. Jakobsson argues that developing new software is crucial to defending against these attacks in the civilian sector.
A new system of racial identification is proposed by sociologist David Harris, considering the multidimensional nature of racial classification. The 'matrix of race' identifies nine cells of identification based on genotype-ancestry, phenotype, and culture, addressing issues with census data collection.
Scientists have achieved negative differential resistance in a single molecule attached to electrodes, a breakthrough that could lead to the development of molecular devices. The discovery was made possible by using an electrolyte solution and applying an insulating coating to minimize electrical contact with the surrounding environment.
Researchers propose a 'systems engineering approach' to protect public spaces from chemical and biological terror attacks. This involves central command centers, response strategies tailored to facilities, and sterilizing chambers built into air-circulation systems.
Recent advances in genetics have revolutionized whale research, revealing surprising tales of population sizes. Marine biologist Steve Palumbi's work has sparked controversy, but also led to a deeper understanding of humpback whales' population history, estimated at 1.5 million before commercial whaling.
A study by Larry Crowder at Duke University suggests that coastal dead zones in the Gulf of Mexico can have significant impacts on target species and commercial fisheries. The research group has found that fish and shrimp can evade death by relocating to the zone's edge, but growth rates of some Gulf fish and shellfish may be lower.
Researchers use underwater microphones to track whales' songs and calls in the North Atlantic, finding evidence of long-distance communication over thousands of miles. The findings suggest whales have acoustic memories analogous to visual memories, guiding their movements and distribution.
The US is investing $3 million in Egyptian science, with a focus on biotechnology, manufacturing technology, and environmental technology. This partnership aims to foster an atmosphere of international trust and understanding, leading to economic stability in the region.
DNA analysis of whale samples reveals a past with an ocean teeming with whales, contrary to recent surges in minke populations. The study also uncovers deep-sea communities thriving on whale carcasses, shedding light on life's diversification in specialized habitats.
Dr. Felix Herrmann proposes a new theory that seismic data may be showing a simpler interplay of only two substances, rather than complex mineralogies, allowing for clearer images and better understanding of the Earth's interior structure. This approach could lead to improved oil patch discovery and enhanced geological resolution.
A Pitt researcher has developed a decision-making model to help patients weigh the risks and benefits of accepting organ transplants. The model uses mathematical techniques to provide insight into patient physiology and quality of life, helping doctors make informed decisions.
A new study reveals that nitrogen pollution from fossil-fuel combustion is a significant source of watershed pollution, particularly in wet climates. Climate change models predict increased nitrogen pollution in the northeastern US, which could undermine efforts to restore coastal ecosystems like the Chesapeake Bay.
Restoration efforts in the Chesapeake Bay should cross traditional boundaries and include upland and coastal areas. The approach emphasizes adaptive management and incorporates ecological resilience to withstand perturbation without a fundamental change.
A Harvard researcher predicts a decline in cleansing summer winds, leading to increased ground-level ozone pollution. This could exacerbate respiratory issues like asthma for affected populations.
New technologies such as multi-beam sonar enable detailed mapping of the ocean floor, revealing undersea mountains, new species and improving safety for shipping. This advancement allows for better management of marine resources, including fisheries and conservation efforts.
Microbial contamination of food is a significant problem worldwide, causing millions of deaths and illnesses. Experts recommend new approaches to food control, including centralized policies and increased surveillance, to ensure safe food production and trade.
Researchers have discovered that older fish produce exponentially more larvae, which are crucial for the survival and growth of younger fish. Removing these older fish can lead to a 'Darwinian debt' for future generations, where evolutionary damage is difficult to repair.
Researchers question current fisheries management practices, highlighting the importance of older fish in maintaining productive populations. The study reveals that eliminating older generations drastically reduces a population's ability to replenish itself, leading to collapse of West Coast fisheries.
Agriculture can provide food and energy security while sustaining soil and water resources, says Kansas State University professor Charles W. Rice. Properly managed agricultural systems can conserve soil and water, but excessive tillage, low productivity, and residue removal result in loss of biodiversity and environmental degradation.
A two-sided market framework is used to compare the traditional 'Reader Pays' model with the newer 'Author Pays' or Open Access publishing model. The study finds that Open Access appears efficient when distribution costs are minimal, but editorial quality may affect profitability.
University of Houston professor Arnold Eskin's research suggests the biological clock regulates long-term memory formation, with neural circuits shutting down at night. His studies on Aplysia reveal that circadian rhythms influence memory formation, but not short-term memory.
A new gene therapy technique converts dead bone grafts into fully functional, living tissue by triggering the body's natural bone remodeling response. This method uses genetically modified viruses to activate key proteins in healthy bones, effectively turning a dead bone splint into the patient's own, whole bone.
Scientists at Purdue University have made a breakthrough in understanding the molecular mechanism of Group I introns, which could lead to new treatments for human diseases. By crystallizing an intron at mid-point in its work cycle, researchers gained insights into how it binds with molecules and carries out biochemical reactions.
A new study challenges the traditional understanding of sex assignment, suggesting that genetics and brain development may influence gender identity. Researchers highlight the need for more nuanced laws and policies to protect individuals with ambiguous genitalia.
New brain imaging technologies have the potential to treat and diagnose depression, as well as detect fetal abnormalities. However, questions remain about their clinical implications and how they should be used in research studies.
Researchers have made significant progress in understanding the causes of recent climate change, attributing warming to human influences. By analyzing climate models and observational records, scientists have identified key drivers of temperature changes, including greenhouse gases and solar irradiance.
Research by University of Pittsburgh researcher Herbert L. Needleman suggests a strong correlation between lead exposure and aggressive behavior, with even low levels affecting brain development in children. The study highlights the need for further action to eliminate lead from the environment.
Researchers at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute have developed a new compound, AMN107, which targets Bcr-Abl kinase protein responsible for CML growth. In laboratory cell cultures and mice with the disease, AMN107 demonstrated effectiveness in killing CML cells and inducing longer remissions compared to Gleevec.
The Einstein@Home project searches data from US and European gravitational wave detectors for signals from rapidly rotating compact quark and neutron stars. The project utilizes an army of home computer users to analyze the data, requiring enormous computational power.
A new model of sound change shows that evolutionary principles can account for striking phonetic similarities across unrelated languages, as well as the rarity of certain sounds. Human perception and articulation make certain kinds of sound change more frequent than others, resulting in emergent properties of language.
Researchers studied mountain gorillas' diets to understand early human food adaptations, finding increased meat consumption led to genetic changes allowing for fatty foods without heart disease. The study suggests that humans have evolved to eat a 'mushy' diet and are not equipped to cope with substantial foods.
Researchers have developed genetically modified plants that produce biological detergents to combat hydrophobic pollutants, including PCBs and dioxins. These 'green Mr. Clean' plants use enzymes to secrete detergents into the soil, making them effective in phytoremediation, a cost-effective alternative to traditional remediation methods.
A panel discussion at the American Association for the Advancement of Science annual meeting explores issues of public confidence in genetic technologies. Stanford University School of Medicine associate professor Barbara Koenig addresses concerns about regulating new genetic technologies and ensuring their effectiveness.
Researchers infer that Titan has acquired significant amounts of ammonia and water, which could be responsible for resurfacing parts of the moon. The Cassini-Huygens mission suggests that liquid ammonia-and-water layers may exist beneath Titan's surface.
A new urinary marker, thymosin ß15, has been identified as a potential more accurate screening test for prostate cancer. When combined with PSA testing, it detects prostate cancer more often with fewer false-positives.
Researchers found that women with diabetes had over two and a half times the risk of heart disease compared to women without diabetes. Men with diabetes had about a 90% higher risk of dying from CHD as men without diabetes.
A team of experts at Cardiff University will use sophisticated computer simulations, laboratory experiments, and field tests to improve understanding of faults and power surges. They aim to develop computer models that can predict voltages and currents following major faults, helping the National Grid network to become safer and more r...
Research suggests that people with a history of depression are at a higher risk of developing epilepsy, while those with epilepsy may be more likely to experience depression. Studies have found common biological mechanisms underlying both conditions, including abnormal neurotransmitter secretion patterns.
Researchers discovered that certain marine red seaweeds can efficiently neutralize organic pollutants, including polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons. The process, known as phycoremediation, shows promise for developing new bioremediation technologies to remove contaminants from the marine environment.
The study found no benefit for women's health-related quality of life from post-menopausal hormone therapy, but increased risk of breast cancer, cardiovascular events, and stroke. This has led to a dilemma among stakeholders, including physicians and pharmaceutical companies.