A nationwide study found that private SAT prep classes and tutoring significantly boost scores, but are unaffordable for many students from lower-income families. The study also showed that higher SAT scores are linked to higher rates of college enrollment, particularly in selective colleges.
Scientists studying the brains of flies, moths, and cuttlefish have made discoveries about the mechanics of how the brain regulates behavior. Researchers have identified specific brain chemicals and regions that allow for rapid color changes in cuttlefish, similar to the human motor cortex.
A new study by Michigan Medicine found that two-thirds of pregnant women with full-blown major depression aren
Men with low testosterone levels after age 40 face a higher risk of death over a four-year period compared to those with normal hormone levels. Testosterone decline is associated with decreased muscle mass, bone density, and increased mortality.
A high intake of copper, combined with a diet rich in saturated and trans fats, may lead to faster cognitive decline in older adults. Cognitive abilities declined rapidly among participants who consumed the most fat and had high copper levels.
A new, detailed view of a star-forming association in the Large Magellanic Cloud provides a rich sample of newly formed low-mass stars, allowing for accurate age and mass calculations. The image reveals small compact clusters hosting hundreds of infant low-mass stars, as well as distant galaxies decorating the background.
Researchers found that macrophage entry into the eye encourages new vessel formation, while direct injection of macrophages significantly inhibits this process. This suggests regulators of macrophages may be a possible therapeutic target in AMD.
The International AIDS Society-USA Panel has updated guidelines for the treatment of adult HIV infection, recommending antiretroviral therapy for all symptomatic and asymptomatic adults with CD4 counts below 350/μL. The new guidelines also emphasize the importance of adherence to therapy and regular monitoring of plasma HIV-1 RNA levels.
A study by Stefania Galletti and her team has identified a plant-based source of the anti-cancer compound glucobrassicin, which has shown effectiveness against breast cancer. The researchers found that wounding leaves can increase levels of glucobrassicin, highlighting its potential as a natural defense mechanism.
A preliminary study suggests that using a single boosted protease inhibitor instead of the standard regimen may be an effective treatment for select patients with HIV infection. The study found that 91% of participants experienced virologic success after 24 weeks of simplified therapy.
Researchers at Salk Institute and MRC discovered how slime molds synthesise the chemical signal DIF-1 using a unique type III PKS domain arrangement. This discovery informs the development of more efficient methods for producing modified polyketides for human use, highlighting the complexity of natural chemicals in biological systems.
A massive scale-up of HIV/AIDS treatment programs in Zambia showed favorable patient outcomes, demonstrating the feasibility of expansion in sub-Saharan Africa. The program's success was attributed to leadership and advocacy by the Zambian government, strict protocols for patient care, and large financial resources.
Scientists identified several abnormal genetic events in children with mental retardation and pinpointed a specific deletion on chromosome 17, which may account for ~1% of cases. The discovery provides unprecedented insight into the underlying biology and mechanism of genomic disease using NimbleGen's high-resolution CGH microarrays.
Researchers discovered that nanoscale materials can withstand near-theoretical shear stresses even with high defect densities, challenging traditional concepts of plastic deformation. Using a unique experimental setup, they correlated load-displacement measurements with individual video frames to study the sequence of events.
A study published in Nature identifies a subunit of the NMDA receptor as crucial for young neurons to survive and integrate into adult brain circuits. The discovery sheds light on how newborn nerve cells in adult brains live or die.
A recent study by Ohio State University researchers found that depressed individuals experience greater psychological benefits from marriage compared to non-depressed individuals. Despite lower marital quality and conflict levels among depressed couples, married depressed individuals still report improved mental well-being.
A new study by Rhys Williams and Gira Vashi finds that the hijab provides a clear identity marker for young American Muslim women, allowing them to carve out their own place in the Western world. The research also shows how the hijab symbolizes modesty and moral purity in an American culture perceived as materialistic.
A meta-analysis of 50 studies found no correlation between anxiety symptoms and pregnancy complications, including longer labor or low birth weight. Despite this, further research is needed to understand the impact of anxiety on pre-eclampsia and small infant weights.
Researchers found that genetic instructions are not executed properly, leading to a buildup of malformed proteins in brain cells. This defect is caused by a subtle mistake in the loading of amino acids onto transfer RNAs.
A study of 765 patients with HIV-1 infection found no significant differences between the two regimens in reducing HIV levels, time to virologic failure, or adverse events. The researchers concluded that adding a fourth drug did not provide additional benefits but may increase complexity and costs.
University of Pittsburgh researchers have developed a novel therapeutic vaccine that activates killer T cells to target HIV, offering new hope for treatment. The vaccine uses dendritic cells modified with specific molecules to stimulate the immune system's response.
Researchers found that multiracial congregations have dramatically different social ties compared to other Americans. Members in these congregations reported feeling accepted and having cross-racial friendships, which is lower than those in same-race or non-congregation groups.
Researchers found that B cells expressing a special protein called DC-SIGN are necessary for HIV to infect T cells. Activating DC-SIGN on B cells allows HIV to invade T cells, highlighting a new target for future studies and drug development.
The study found that the efavirenz plus two-NRTI regimen was significantly more effective at reducing HIV viral load in the blood. A second approach, lopinavir/ritonavir, also performed well and may be a viable alternative for patients who experience intolerable side effects from NRTIs. The trial included 753 participants and showed su...
Researchers discovered a novel mechanism controlling human growth hormone (hGH) gene expression through non-coding RNAs. This finding may lead to the development of therapeutics for hGH defects and a better understanding of genetic disorders.
Researchers at Indiana University are working on a project to craft messages that encourage women to be tested for HIV and enroll in research clinical studies. The study aims to identify barriers to testing and develop persuasive messages to overcome them.
Researchers find that chronic stress can lead to damage in the brain and body, but also note that certain behaviors like exercise, social support, and coping techniques can modify these effects. Healthy centenarians exhibit slower insulin rates, higher thyroid hormones, and lower cortisol levels compared to younger adults.
The Texas Smoke-Free Ordinance Database shows that over a quarter of Texas cities have passed new smoking ordinances since 2000. The database provides detailed information on smoking policies across the state, including summaries of various ordinances and enforcement measures.
A declaration by top scientists states that mercury pollution poses significant risks to human health, particularly for children and women of childbearing age. The declaration also highlights the need for reduced mercury use and emissions, as well as careful fish consumption to minimize exposure.
A new type of microscopy developed by Xiaowei Zhuang at Harvard University resolves objects as small as 20 nanometers, enabling the first ultra-resolution imaging of living biomolecules and cells. The technique, called stochastic optical reconstruction microscopy, uses glowing molecules to create high-resolution images in real-time.
A four-year study led by Temple University aims to test an internet-based telemedicine system to help overweight and obese African Americans lose weight. The program will be implemented through partnerships with several churches in North Philadelphia, where participants can access the study's website and moderated chat rooms for guidance.
Researchers found physical exercise can slow aging's effects and improve cognitive functions in older adults. Fitness training, particularly aerobic exercise, was associated with improved cognition, brain function, and retained brain volume.
A new CD-ROM containing more than 40 selected chapters from the HIV InSite Knowledge Base is being released to provide comprehensive HIV information in the developing world. The disk features a wide range of topics, including natural science, diagnosis and clinical management, transmission and prevention.
Research at Karolinska Institutet reveals that human neocortical nerve cells do not regenerate, contradicting previous studies on apes and rodents. The new method uses atmospheric C14 levels to pinpoint cell birth times, showing no cell division took place in the neocortex from infancy to adulthood.
Researchers at Indiana University School of Medicine found that routine screening for celiac disease in asymptomatic children with Down syndrome can have negative consequences on their quality of life. The study suggests that the cost of screening and treatment may outweigh the potential benefits, making it a less beneficial practice.
A new study confirms the effectiveness of MRI-guided breast biopsy by using specimen radiography to confirm lesion removal. Whole specimen and sliced specimen radiography proved valuable in detecting lesions, identifying pathologists' findings, and locating fractured biopsy needle wires.
A comprehensive review published in Nature Clinical Practice Endocrinology & Metabolism suggests that Western diets are causing hormonal imbalances in children, leading to overeating and obesity. The study attributes the rise in childhood obesity to an environment with high-calorie, low-fiber foods.
Research suggests that women's appreciation for their body is key to adopting better eating habits. According to the study, intuitive eaters reported higher levels of self-acceptance and less time spent thinking about appearance. This finding contradicts common messages that some degree of body dissatisfaction is healthy.
Researchers found two opposing mechanisms protecting cells from protein aggregation: one breaks down aggregates, while the other transforms smaller ones into less toxic high-molecular-weight aggregates. This discovery may lead to new therapies for age-related Neurodegenerative Diseases.
The College of Engineering at UC Santa Barbara has received a $2.75 million Partnerships for Research and Education in Materials (PREM) award from the National Science Foundation to partner with Jackson State University (JSU). The grant aims to develop new materials research in organic semiconductors and optical nanosystems, while focu...
Researchers studied ancient Arctic water cycles during a period of rapid, extreme global warming 55 million years ago. The study found that increased precipitation led to lower ocean salinity and drastically lower oxygen levels in the Arctic Ocean, similar to predicted effects of greenhouse gases.
Research by Phyllis Moen finds that middle class dual-earner couples are stretched thin, with fewer than one in six qualifying as 'super couples' with high quality of life. Women working in insecure jobs often face limited scheduling flexibility and control.
Montana State University has developed a massive database of wind turbine material tests, spanning over 17 years and involving 150 different composite materials. The MSU/DOE Fatigue Database for Composite Materials is now one of the world's largest open-access libraries on wind energy research.
Researchers at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute develop a virtual simulator that allows surgeons to practice minimally invasive surgery with actual tool handles, improving depth perception and dexterity. The system uses haptic technology to provide an immersive experience, reducing the need for cadavers and animals in training.
A survey found that one-third of Americans reject evolution, a higher figure than in European countries. Fundamentalist religions and politics play a significant role in this disparity.
A special issue of Nursing Research journal highlights innovative methods for treating tobacco dependence and practical approaches for clinical use. Nurses are widely recognized as central to global efforts to reduce the detrimental health effects of tobacco use, with training needed to deliver interventions to patients.
Research shows tadpoles respond more conservatively to predator cues during the day, but return to feeding quickly at night due to higher growth rate-to-predation risk ratio. This study highlights the importance of considering both external and internal factors in understanding prey behavior.
A new care model for bipolar disorder, developed by Brown University researchers, has shown promise in reducing manic episodes and improving quality of life. The team-based approach involves psychiatrists and nurses working together to manage symptoms, resulting in a significant reduction in symptoms and improved function.
Researchers at the University of New Hampshire found that blue mussels can recognize and respond to two invasive crab species within 15 years. In southern New England, mussels thickened their shells in response to Hemigrapsus sanguineus, while northern populations showed a delayed response.
American researchers have created a new basis for portable, multiplexed biodetection systems using silver and gold striped nanowires as supports for simultaneous immunological tests. The unique patterns of stripes act like barcodes, allowing for fast and accurate identification of multiple pathogens.
Researchers have solved a 30-year puzzle on how migratory birds integrate multiple directional cues. They found that polarized light patterns play a key role in calibrating the birds' magnetic compass, providing an independent reference system. This discovery sheds light on the complex navigation systems used by migratory birds.
Researchers found that restoring Ras-GAP activity through expression of the human NF1 GAP-related domain restored normal cardiac development in mice with Neurofibromatosis type I disease. However, this approach did not fully restore all pathologies associated with neurofibromin loss, indicating a more complex role for the protein.
A study by Salk Institute researchers reveals that aging is a critical factor in the buildup of toxic beta amyloid aggregates in the brain. The team found that cells use an unexpected two-pronged strategy to rid themselves of these aggregates, with high molecular weight species being less toxic than smaller ones.
A study by researchers at The Miriam Hospital and Brown Medical School found that breast cancer survivors who believed an unhealthy behavior contributed to their cancer were more likely to modify that behavior. The most robust relationship was found for changes in diet.
Research suggests that ACE inhibitors can reduce the risk of serious circulatory problems, including heart attack and stroke, in patients with hardening of the arteries. The benefits of ACE inhibitors for these patients are comparable to those seen in patients with existing heart failure.
In a study, researchers found that modulation of Ras activity is not the only function of neurofibromin, suggesting alternative therapeutic approaches for Neurofibromatosis type I disease. Interferon-gamma also plays a critical role in maintaining immune response balance by inducing Foxp3 and converting T cells.
A multi-year study by Texas A&M researchers found that the amount and quality of time parents spend with their children has a direct effect on children's rates of obesity. Mothers' time with children was more strongly linked to lower obesity risks, while fathers' time was associated with higher risks for older children.
The winning entry analyzed automobile manufacturers' sales data to optimize promotional activity, resulting in $2 billion savings. The prize recognizes outstanding implementation of marketing science concepts and methods in real-world applications.
Researchers at IRRI and UC Davis have identified a cluster of three genes linked to flooding vulnerability or tolerance in rice. The Sub1A gene is overexpressed, making normally intolerant varieties tolerant.
A new study reveals that Antarctic snowfall has remained stable over the past 50 years, with no statistically significant trends detected. The findings contradict climate change predictions and suggest that thickening ice sheets have not reduced sea levels.