Nitric acid is less reactive when exposed to air on water's surface, unlike its strong acidic behavior in bulk solutions. This finding has implications for understanding the role of nitric acid in the atmosphere and environment.
A predictive model, sCast, uses October snow cover in Siberia to predict winter temperatures and snowfall in the Northern Hemisphere. The model has been verified to accurately forecast winter conditions over much of eastern United States and Northern Eurasia.
A new study found that a compound in broccoli, known as DIM, may help boost the immune system. DIM was shown to increase blood levels of cytokines and stimulate white blood cells in mice, suggesting potential health benefits against infections and cancer.
Silicon nanoparticles can significantly enhance the performance of solar cells by improving power output and reducing heat. By integrating a high-quality film of silicon nanoparticles onto silicon solar cells, researchers achieved a 60% improvement in power performance in the ultraviolet range of the spectrum.
Chemical engineers discovered a fundamental flaw in the conventional view of how liquids form bubbles that grow and turn into vapors. The new findings apply to homogeneous nucleation and suggest multiple possible pathways for phase transition, potentially leading to practical safety benefits for industry.
Patients with respiratory problems face a higher risk of death during longer ambulance journeys, which can range from 0 to 58 kilometres. The study found that the further the patient has to travel, the more likely they are to die, with a 13% increase in mortality for those with breathing problems over 20km distances.
A study found that women with dementia start losing weight up to 20 years before diagnosis, due to reduced appetite and motivation. Men with dementia do not experience significant weight loss in the years leading up to diagnosis.
A team of mechanical engineers at Vanderbilt University has developed a revolutionary prosthetic arm that can lift up to 25 pounds and perform three times faster than current commercial arms. The arm is powered by a miniature rocket motor, allowing for greater power and function without the need for batteries.
Researchers at Penn State's Energy Institute have developed a process to produce jet fuel, gasoline, diesel fuel, and heating oil from coal using existing refineries. The process produces various hydrocarbon products, including fuel oil, gasoline, and diesel, which can be integrated into the refinery stream.
Researchers warn of the growing prevalence of ineffective and potentially dangerous fad treatments for autism. Despite limited scientific evidence, parents are often willing to try various therapies in hopes of finding relief for their child.
Researchers at UGA discovered that pectin reduces prostate cancer cell count by up to 40% through apoptosis. The study found pectin's anti-cancer properties under different treatment conditions, suggesting potential for developing pharmaceuticals or health-enhancing foods.
Researchers at Boston Medical Center are developing a computerized workstation called Louise to electronically prepare discharge plans for patients. Preliminary research shows that interventions using this technology can reduce inappropriate readmissions and increase patient satisfaction.
A University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine study reveals that African-Americans are disproportionately exposed to pro-tobacco advertising, with a concentration of tobacco ads 70% higher and 2.6 times more ads per person compared to Caucasians.
Research by Cindy Lustig and David Bissig found that people who use smart strategies, such as studying more than testing, show large improvements in memory. Meanwhile, those who focus on testing without studying do poorly. The study suggests that the way people approach training is more important than age or initial ability.
Dr. Elliot Meyerowitz has been awarded a grant from the American Society of Plant Biologists (ASPB) Foundation to develop a teacher-training program focused on plant science education public outreach. The program will use plants as model systems to address state biology standards in the Pasadena Unified School District.
A Tulane University study examines the relationship between alcohol consumption and stroke risk in a large sample of Chinese men, finding that heavy drinking increases the risk of stroke. The research reveals that even moderate levels of alcohol intake can lead to higher risk of death by stroke.
A new analysis has identified cancer-causing compounds, air pollutants, and other substances of concern in the production of carbon nanotubes. Researchers are working with industry partners to develop environmentally sustainable manufacturing methods and filter systems to minimize hazardous by-products.
Researchers found that dense breasts and high hormone levels increase breast cancer risk by 400% and 200%, respectively. The study also showed additive effects, where women with both dense breasts and excess hormones face a 600% increased risk.
The Virginia Tech plant scientists will develop and disseminate four interactive web-based flash animation modules to teach plant biology and genetics. The project aims to reach a wider audience of high school students, teachers, and plant scientists, promoting STEM education and research collaborations.
Scientists say polar ice clouds could be a symptom of climate change due to increased carbon dioxide in the lower atmosphere causing cooling in the upper atmosphere. Noctilucent clouds form under conditions that counter common logic, only forming in summer when solar radiation is most intense.
Research found that patients traveling farther to reach their physician are more likely to have thicker skin cancer at diagnosis. Longer distances were associated with increased Breslow thickness, and rural locations and lack of dermatologists in the area also contributed to poorer outcomes.
Research links exhaust fumes to increased asthma risk in genetically susceptible children, particularly those with high microsomal epoxide hydrolase activity and GSTP1 genetic variants. Children exposed to road traffic pollution are also at greater risk of developing asthma.
Researchers discovered how bacteria produce desferrioxamines, leading to new ways to treat Fire Blight disease in orchards and human iron overload. The study also identified a more efficient method for producing the pharmaceutical desferrioxamine B.
Patients with Medicaid and those lacking insurance have a higher risk of being diagnosed with advanced-stage laryngeal cancer at diagnosis. This association holds true across various demographic groups, emphasizing the importance of access to healthcare for cancer screening and treatment.
Researchers at Georgia Tech and Emory University developed a nanoparticle that can detect and image trace amounts of hydrogen peroxide in animals. This innovation could lead to the creation of a simple diagnostic tool for detecting early stages of various diseases.
The National Human Genome Research Institute is funding two new centers to explore genomic mechanisms in vertebrate diversity. The centers will use the stickleback fish model to identify genetic signatures driving adaptive changes, with potential implications for human diseases.
Pain researchers at Washington University School of Medicine have made a breakthrough in understanding the complex relationship between opiate drugs and their addictive effects. By isolating the analgesic effects from morphine, scientists can potentially develop more effective treatments for pain while minimizing the risk of addiction.
A study of UK trainee doctors found they were gaining less experience in performing common practical procedures, such as suturing and wound exploration. The decline in hands-on experience may be attributed to formal teaching and assessments, or senior staff taking over procedures to meet waiting time targets.
Scientists have found evidence that archaea and other life domains coexisted for at least 2.7 billion years, challenging current understanding of the history of life on Earth. The discovery was made in a deep Canadian gold mine, where oily lipid remains of ancient archaea were analyzed using advanced techniques.
A team of Penn State engineers discovered that combining coal with papermaking black liquor waste creates a synthesis gas that can be converted into DME, a clean-burning fuel. This process reduces the carbon footprint of traditional coal-to-liquid processes and offers a more efficient alternative to burning black liquor for heat.
Research found 90% of patients with multiple aura types had seizures originating from the non-dominant side of their brain. Epilepsy surgery was effective in stopping seizures in over half of study participants.
Princeton physicists have made the first real-time observation of low-energy solar neutrinos, confirming a long-held theory about the sun's nuclear reactions. The observation provides precise measurements of the neutrinos' energy and confirms that we understand how the sun shines.
Researchers discovered a clear preference for pink or reddish hues among women, shifting their color preference towards red and away from blue. The study suggests that this difference may be driven by biological factors, potentially related to evolution and the importance of ripe fruit in hunter-gatherer societies.
A University of Michigan survey found that nearly half of Air Force women experience little to no impact from family separation on their work, but those with higher family-work conflict rates are more likely to suffer symptoms of depression and anxiety. The study aims to identify areas where interventions can reduce this source of stress.
A Clemson team of chemists has found a new mechanism for antioxidant activity, where antioxidants bind to naturally present iron and copper in the body to prevent DNA damage. This discovery may help treat or prevent illnesses such as cancer, cardiovascular disease, Parkinson's, and Alzheimer's.
Renowned chemists and inventors to share revolutionary research developments in nanotech, biotech, and beyond. The symposium will focus on commercializing new technologies that promise to improve human health and productivity.
Researchers found that axon stimulation can increase signal transmission to the cortex, suggesting a new mechanism for brain processing. This discovery may lead to treatments for psychiatric disorders where brain cells communicate incorrectly.
Researchers at Virginia Tech have developed a transportable pyrolysis unit to convert poultry litter into three value-added byproducts: bio-oil, producer gas, and fertilizer. The process reduces waste disposal concerns and biosecurity risks, while producing high-quality bio-oils with potential economic benefits.
Scientists at PNNL have developed a portable biosensor that can distinguish between individuals exposed to nerve agents and those who are simply scared. The sensor uses nano-based technology to amplify biomarker signals, enabling precise readings and faster detection.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine have found that the UDG enzyme searches for genetic damage by trying on DNA building blocks like a puzzle, holding onto mistakes and leaving correct ones in line. The discovery may help address how diseases like cancer arise in the genome.
Researchers found that anthocyanins from purple corn, chokeberries, and bilberries can slow the growth of colon cancer cells. The compounds were tested on human colon cancer cells and rats with colon cancer, showing promising results. Further studies are needed to understand how these compounds interact with other food components.
Researchers are using combined experimental and computational methods to understand the structural and bonding parameters of uranyl, a common oxidation state of uranium. The insights gained will contribute to predicting the chemical and physical properties of heavy transition metal and actinide complexes.
Researchers used computer analysis to identify potential new antibiotics, such as lovastatin and gentisic acid, which show promise against emerging bacterial threats. The approach could save time and lives during outbreaks or bioterrorism attacks.
Research suggests that perpetrators of school shootings often suffer from cynical shyness, a form of extreme shyness characterized by low empathy and anger outbursts. Experts recommend providing social skills training to help isolated students build sense of belonging.
A recent study found that stress management is positively correlated with high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol levels in older white men. Conversely, hostility and social isolation were not associated with HDL levels. The research suggests a potential protective role of coping mechanisms in maintaining healthy lipid profiles.
In 1967, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. urged psychologists to study the impact of social injustice and advocate for social change. Today, research supports King's hypothesis, linking racism to negative health outcomes and reduced psychological wellness. Psychologists acknowledge progress in cultural awareness but emphasize the need for fu...
A researcher at Ohio State University suggests that ingroup bias doesn't require conflict with other groups, but rather a desire for trust and security within one's own group. This is contrary to the common misconception that people join groups to boost their self-esteem or to assert dominance over others.
Ecological restoration is crucial in addressing global climate change, enhancing carbon sinks and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The Society for Ecological Restoration International urges governments, organizations, and private institutions to support restoration projects worldwide.
New research shows that distributing free insecticide-treated bed nets can significantly reduce malaria cases and save lives. A successful program in Kenya distributed over 3 million nets to two-thirds of children, with no difference in coverage between rich and poor homes.
A study found that fat on the chest and upper back is associated with an increased risk of insulin resistance, a condition that can lead to type 2 diabetes. The researchers also discovered that each type of fat contributes independently to insulin resistance, regardless of its presence.
Sea surface temperatures are crucial for tropical cyclone formation, and recent data shows warming in the Gulf of Mexico, Caribbean, and eastern Atlantic. This warming contributed to Hurricane Dean and Tropical Storm Erin, with forecasters warning that the upcoming hurricane season will be a mixed bag.
A call has been made for a Southern Hemisphere network of deep ocean moorings to monitor changes in the Southern Ocean circulation, which could influence global climate. The North Atlantic moored network provides measurements of the Gulf Stream, a significant feature in moderating European and North American climate.
A new study by the American Psychological Association reveals that depression is closely linked to domestic abuse and family problems among recently returning veterans. The research found that nearly 40% of married or cohabiting veterans experienced frequent family readjustment problems, including feeling like a guest in their household.
A study by Louise Hawkley and John Cacioppo found that loneliness accumulates over time and contributes to increased stress, chronic inflammation, and poorer sleep quality in older adults. The researchers also discovered that lonely individuals exhibit a heightened state of arousal and are less likely to seek help when stressed.
A collaborative healthcare model in Maine tied risk and reward to improve quality and efficiency. The program involved hospitals and employers sharing incentive funds based on performance standards, resulting in modest but meaningful financial rewards for top-performing facilities.
Exposure to PFOS and PFOA in utero is statistically associated with lower head circumference and body weight at birth, according to a Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health analysis of nearly 300 umbilical cord blood samples. The study found no associations between these compounds and length or gestational age.
A study by Imperial College London and Loughborough University found a significant increase in motorcycling casualties in inner London during the congestion charging period. The research suggests that the incentive to use motorcycles may be driving the rise, while cyclists in outer London also experienced an increase in casualties.
The UK's proposed TRUTHS satellite mission seeks to settle international debates on climate change by launching a calibration laboratory into space. This will enable more accurate climate data and inform predictive quality of climate models.
A new study reveals that more than half of parents with a BRCA mutation share their genetic test results with children under 25. Many children experience initial negative reactions and struggle to understand the significance of this information. Further research is needed to address the emotional impact on these families.
Researchers at Temple University's Sbarro Institute have made progress in understanding how ER-α is silenced in certain breast cancer cell lines. The findings could lead to new treatments for hormone-receptor positive breast cancers.