A new study funded by the Economic and Social Research Council found that UK street robbery is often driven by a desire for excitement, status, or self-defense. The research, conducted with 120 offenders, revealed that gratuitous violence used in street robbery is increasing and is linked to drug use and gang involvement.
Scientists assess native plant diversity to evaluate invasion vulnerability and protect native plants, innovative field methods presented in a new book by USGS ecologist Tom Stohlgren. The book provides revised sampling approaches for measuring plant diversity at multiple scales, helping natural resource managers make informed decisions
An independent committee concluded that journal editors at Science went above and beyond existing procedures to verify fraudulent stem-cell research articles, but the committee found that the cachet of publishing in Science can be an incentive not to follow the rules. The committee proposed developing a procedure for identifying high-r...
Researchers found that smoking cessation led to normalized brain metabolite concentrations, with decreased NAA levels in the anterior cingulate cortex correlating with smoking history. Choline and creatine levels were also affected, suggesting a link between smoking and neuronal dysfunction.
The EPRI and Argonne analysis will evaluate PHEVs, hybrids, and conventional vehicles from environmental, cost, design, and marketing perspectives. The research project aims to provide a balanced study of the advantages and challenges of PHEV design and commercial production.
Researchers develop a 3D model of a child's heart using MRI scans to simulate blood flow and optimize surgical procedures for complex congenital heart defects. The system aims to improve quality of life for children with single-ventricle hearts by reducing the need for multiple surgeries.
Van Voorhis is developing methods to simulate electron transfer and improve the efficiency of devices such as LEDs and optical displays. His research aims to create a larger portion of energy storage in artificial photosynthesis, potentially leading to more efficient solar energy storage.
Dunkleosteus terrelli, a 400-million-year-old fish, had the strongest bite of any fish with a force of 1,100 pounds, rivaling that of large alligators and Tyrannosaurus rex. Its unique bladed dentition focused the bite force into a small area, while its ability to open its mouth quickly created a strong suction force.
The LEX System demonstrated the ability to produce monoclonal antibodies with homogeneous glycosylation structures, reducing production risks and costs. The system's success was shown through enhanced affinity for Fc receptors and increased effector function in oncology and autoimmune indications.
The study found that different seed dispersal methods, such as gravity and wind, result in distinct patterns of tree clustering in tropical forests. Trees with ballistic dispersal tend to cluster tightly, while those with wind-dispersed seeds have surprisingly tight clusters due to the dense forest canopy.
A scientific team has developed the world's first engineering model to predict how coral reefs will be affected by intense storms. The model takes into account factors such as colony shape, sea-bed strength, and wave force to estimate the likelihood of coral damage.
A new study finds that Black and Latino males struggle in math classes despite positive feedback, due to a tendency to ignore institutional cues. Meanwhile, female students of the same racial groups are more resilient and less affected by low grades.
Researchers at Max Planck Institute for Microstructure Physics developed single crystal silicon nanowires using an aluminium catalyst, reducing the size of microchips. The new process fulfils key criteria for industrial-scale production and could lead to improved semiconductor components.
Researchers used diffusion tensor imaging to track water molecule movement in brains of chronic back pain patients and healthy controls. Chronic back pain was associated with more directed diffusion in pain-processing regions, suggesting complex brain organization and hyperactivity.
A recent study by Yale University researchers highlights substantial global health inequalities influenced by economic, social, and health-sector variables. Countries with low income and high mortality rates have lower investment in human and physical resources, more health risks, and worse educational outcomes.
A new project delivers mobile digital mammography services to remote reservations, transmitting images via satellite for real-time interpretation. The initiative aims to improve breast cancer screening and care for rural American Indian women, who face high mortality rates.
Scientists have developed a theoretical model to predict the properties of microcapsules based on salt content and temperature, enabling precise control over their permeability. This allows for intelligent transport systems that can release active substances at specific locations in the body.
Researchers developed an ultrasound-based stethoscope that can accurately read heart and lung sounds at high noise levels, revolutionizing medical auscultation for critically injured patients. The new device is expected to save lives by enabling doctors to diagnose conditions like collapsed lungs and asthma in noisy environments.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins University are developing a system that adds haptic feedback to robotic surgery tools, allowing surgeons to feel the work of mechanical helpers. The team is experimenting with techniques such as force sensors and computer models to convey tactile sensations to operators.
A study comparing trained mid-level providers (MLPs) to doctors for first-trimester manual vacuum aspiration abortions found that MLPs are equally safe as doctors. In South Africa and Vietnam, rates of complications were low and comparable between the two groups, with women reporting equal satisfaction.
Researchers at Max Planck Institute have found a way to easily reverse vortex cores, creating a digital bit that is extremely stable. This mechanism can be used for a new magnetic storage concept, where magnetic pulses can efficiently reverse the vortex core with no losses and quickly.
A new study reveals that embolization, a minimally invasive treatment for varicoceles, significantly improves sperm motility and count in infertile men. Six months after treatment, 26% of couples achieved a pregnancy, with high sperm motility before the procedure being the key predictor of success.
A new study finds that publicly schooled kindergarteners outperform privately schooled peers in terms of learning gains, contrary to expectations. The research suggests that instituting all-day kindergarten could help narrow the achievement gap between public and private schools.
A UK review concludes that an implantable pump can help patients with rapidly deteriorating heart failure live and recover strength while waiting for a transplant. However, the device's use is limited due to high costs and quality-of-life restrictions.
Lu Yongxiang, a top-ranking Chinese scientist, has initiated new forms of cooperation with the Max Planck Society, enhancing their research friendship. He is credited with making the Chinese Academy of Sciences a popular international partner.
Nanotechnology has become a significant part of consumer goods, with products like Nano-Tex treated fleece jackets and carbon nanotube-infused tennis rackets. The Project on Emerging Nanotechnologies has identified over 350 manufacturer-identified nanotechnology consumer products currently being sold.
The study reveals that asymptomatic carriers played a crucial role in the evolution and global transmission of Typhi, leading to antibiotic resistance and hindering treatment efforts. The research also highlights the importance of healthy carriers in facilitating the spread of the bacteria.
Research suggests that common painkillers like NSAIDs can reduce vaccine effectiveness by reducing antibody production. The study's findings have implications for people who take these medications regularly, particularly those with compromised immune systems.
Researchers at Tufts University are developing a new curriculum that combines engineering with basic science to improve student engagement and understanding. The curriculum, funded by the National Science Foundation, will be tested in Boston-area elementary schools over the next five years.
U-M researchers found that digital mammograms transmitted via satellite to radiologists in Ann Arbor, Mich., resulted in improved delivery of traditional mobile mammography services. The service allowed Native American women to receive timely follow-up care, with 72% of those needing additional images getting tested within three days.
A University of Leeds study reports a groundbreaking case of déjà vu in a blind individual, challenging traditional theories. The research suggests that déjà experiences are caused by disrupted familiarity areas in the brain, contradicting optical pathway delay theory.
Researchers at the University of Manchester have discovered that Manchester commuters inhale their biggest daily dose of harmful traffic fumes during the morning rush hour. The air pollution traps particles near ground level, which can be toxic to human health.
Researchers at PNNL discovered that entombed enzymes in silica nanochambers can regain their activity, mimicking cellular crowding. The team developed a method to functionalize the pores with compounds tailored to specific enzymes, allowing for potent catalysis and efficient production of desired products.
A new study using fMRI found that strong brands elicit stronger activity in the brain, activating areas involved in positive emotional processing and self-identification. Weak brands, on the other hand, showed higher levels of activation in working memory and negative emotional response.
The study found that 43% of Internet users feel strongly about their virtual communities compared to their real-world ones. Online communities lead to offline actions and social activism, with a significant majority logging in daily.
A new study found that adolescents playing violent video games exhibited increased emotional arousal and decreased executive function compared to those playing nonviolent games. The researchers used fMRI scans to measure brain activity during tasks requiring concentration and emotional processing.
Researchers at the University of Houston have created a low-density, open-caged structure of germanium with unusual thermoelectric and optoelectronic properties. The new material has the potential to emit light and exhibit significant technological potential.
Researchers at University of Michigan confirm fibromyalgia as a real condition characterized by lower pain threshold and associated with genetic factors. Studies using neuroimaging techniques reveal abnormalities in central brain structures and increased neural activity in patients.