A study published in PLOS Biology suggests that sleep is crucial for brain function, allowing the brain to regroup after a hard day of learning. The research proposes that sleep enables the brain to consolidate new memories and 'forget' random impressions, making it essential for continued learning.
Researchers found 15% of amniotic fluid samples harbored bacteria or fungi, contributing to premature birth. The heavier the burden, the more likely a baby was born younger and sicker.
A study found that reproductive and hormonal factors influence the risk of developing different subtypes of breast cancer. Breastfeeding for 6 months or longer was associated with a lower risk of luminal and triple-negative cancers, while late age at menopause and estrogen therapy were linked to increased risks.
A new study by University of Tennessee professor Francisco Ubeda suggests that the amount of care a father gives to his child may cause a shift in the syndrome's symptoms, reversing them. The research implies that social structure and biparental care can shape disease symptoms over human evolution.
The Perspectives system uses friendly sites to authenticate Web sites, providing an extra measure of security in cases where certificate authorities are not used. The system can detect suspicious sites and warn users about potential attacks.
Researchers found that bluetongue virus can survive the winter by surviving in the eggs of Culicoides midges, or by overwintering in livestock barns. The virus can also spread through transplacental infections from an infected pregnant animal to its fetus.
Researchers at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory discovered an enzyme called Brk that accelerates HER2-positive tumor growth and contributes to drug resistance. The team found that targeting Brk may provide a safe strategy for treating ErbB2-positive tumors.
Research at the University of Warwick has challenged a century-old rule in pharmacology, suggesting that key chemicals can pass across cell walls much slower than predicted. The findings have major implications for the development and testing of future drugs.
Researchers are conducting the first-ever tests on a full-scale house to simulate hurricane-force winds, using pressure boxes to create realistic conditions. The goal is to understand how buildings fail and make them safer through basic additions and amendments.
Researchers at MGH confirmed a potential new therapy for type 1 diabetes by selectively killing autoimmune cells in human patients. The treatment, which blocks a metabolic pathway regulating the immune system, eliminates immune cells that react against a patient's own tissues.
Researchers discovered that combining a tumor-boosting drug with radiation therapy can effectively shrink large tumors, but not small ones. The treatment works by increasing the expression of vessel proteins required for killer T cells to target the tumor.
A study by Kansas State University researchers found that household surveys predict the inflation rate fairly accurately and as well as professional economists. Consumers participating in surveys are more likely to think about how much they spent at the grocery store that week.
Researchers found that steady blood flow creates frictional force and stretching force that protect blood vessels from atherosclerosis. The study identified proteins involved in this process, including PECAM-1 and Fyn, which could lead to the development of new therapies.
Studies across various species reveal that animals adjust their vocalizations to suit different social contexts, such as altering call duration and frequency in response to competition. This adaptability enables individuals to communicate effectively and navigate noisy environments.
Rice University professors Ka-Yiu San and George Bennett have developed an eco-friendly bacterial process to speed up pharmaceutical production and reduce costs. The new method uses metabolically engineered E. coli cells to continually replenish the supply of NADPH, a critical cofactor in forming chiral compounds.
Researchers found that 90% of deceased bats showed internal hemorrhaging consistent with barotrauma, highlighting the vulnerability of these mammals to wind turbine hazards. The unique respiratory system of bats makes them more susceptible to air pressure drops, which can cause fatal injuries.
A new study published in PLOS Medicine found that tobacco control programs in California reduced personal health care expenditures by $86 billion between 1989 and 2004. The program's cost savings grew over time, reaching 7.3% in 2003-2004, and represented a significant return on investment for the state.
Monkeys predominantly chose sharing tokens with relatives and familiar individuals, showing empathy-driven prosocial behavior. The study suggests that giving may be self-rewarding for monkeys due to social closeness.
CSIRO scientists have developed two new Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) technologies to improve navigation in remote areas. The systems will support personnel safety, traffic management, collision avoidance, and haul truck operation efficiency.
Scientists have discovered gene mutations that cause inherited neuroblastoma, the most common childhood cancer. The mutations also play a significant role in high-risk non-inherited forms of the disease, leading to new testing opportunities and potential targeted therapies.
A new approach is required to address the growing issue of child abuse and neglect in Australia, with a focus on preventing abuse before it occurs. The current system's emphasis on intervening after harm has been done is deemed unethical and ineffective.
This study investigates the 3D rupture conformations of a surface fault under biaxial compression, revealing three stages of crack growth and introducing the concept of anti-wing cracks. The results provide fundamental understanding of surface fault propagation and have significant implications for future studies on active fault movement.
A recent brain study has identified the brain regions that interact to link knowledge of socially appropriate behavior with moral sentiments like pride and guilt. The findings suggest that social behavior not conforming to an individual's values evokes feelings of anger or guilt, which may be relevant to understanding depression.
Researchers found that aggressive treatment with at least five effective drugs can cure XDR TB, reversing the chronic features of the disease in many patients. This approach also prevents high mortality rates and further transmission of drug-resistant strains.
Researchers have discovered that a protein called Est3 recognizes where to report to work through a specific 3-dimensional shape displayed on its surface. This finding has propelled forward studies of Est3's role in elongating chromosome ends and saving cells from premature growth arrest.
Montana State University will incorporate more wind-related topics into existing engineering courses, educating students about wind energy and preparing them for jobs in the industry. The university aims to support Montana's growing wind industry and provide valuable technical experience.
A national survey found that the majority of health journalists lack specialized training in health reporting and struggle to communicate complex medical science developments. Journalists reported quoting experts, avoiding technical terms, and providing data as key elements to making health information understandable.
A study published in Journal of Consumer Research found that simply asking people if they're willing to volunteer their time leads to increased donations of both time and money. This effect cannot be explained by guilt or feelings of obligation, suggesting a deeper psychological connection between giving time and experiencing happiness.
A new study reveals that consumers tend to avoid the largest and smallest options when it comes to soft drinks. By eliminating small drink sizes and adding larger ones, retailers have seen a 15% increase in high-calorie drink consumption. Reversing this trend could curb soft drink consumption with only a slight reduction in profit.
Scientists at the University of Manchester have created a new method for attaching active proteins to chips, enabling quick testing for serious diseases and rapid discovery of new drugs. This breakthrough could lead to the development of large-scale protein arrays that can analyze thousands of proteins simultaneously.
MSU scientist Darla Goeres is developing standardized methods to measure the effectiveness of antimicrobial products against biofilms. This work aims to improve public trust in product efficacy claims.
Research reveals that elephant legs are much bendier than Shakespeare's depiction, with joints flexing significantly during locomotion. Studies also show that the animals' mobility range is comparable to that of trotting horses.
Researchers found that hotel bathroom signs focusing on environmental benefits were less effective than those highlighting participation rates, increasing reuse rates from 35.1% to 44.1%. Normative messages about the norm, which was never used by hotel chains, also spurred significant increases in towel re-use.
A study found that healthy individuals are more willing to take enhancement drugs for traits not fundamental to their identity, such as improving concentration. However, they are less likely to agree to enhance traits considered essential to their self-identity.
University of Alabama at Birmingham researchers have developed a gene therapy virus to target ovarian cancer cells. The adenovirus-based approach has shown anti-tumor effects that appear safe for most patients, according to Drs. David T. Curiel and Ronald Alvarez.
The study provides an accurate picture of XXYY syndrome, identifying unique medical and psychological characteristics, including cardiac abnormalities, dental problems, and learning disabilities. Treatment recommendations focus on targeted therapies for behaviors, emotional problems, and community services to support independent living.
Researchers at the University of Bonn discover brown dwarfs must be treated as a separate class due to their unique mass distribution and 'mating behaviour'. This reclassification challenges current understanding of stellar formation and population dynamics.
A new study introduces the participatory action research paradigm, which aims to help people and employ different methodologies from traditional consumer research. The authors examined three categories of participatory action research, revealing important benefits and ideas for improvement.
A comprehensive strategy on technological innovations is crucial to prevent the impending economic crisis in health care. Advanced technologies such as biomeasurement, bioinformatics, and health information technologies will be required to improve disease prevention and efficient care.
A study by Deborah A. Small and Uri Simonsohn found that people become more sympathetic towards victims suffering from the same misfortune as a close relationship, leading to increased donations to charities supporting those causes. The researchers recreated this phenomenon in an experiment where participants formed new friendships and...
Research finds that dense breast tissue promotes aggressive cancer cells, as breast cancer cells in denser surroundings step up their invasive activities. The study suggests a cellular mechanism linking human breast tissue density and tumor aggressiveness.
Scientists have pinpointed the FCER1A gene as a major factor in allergic diseases, influencing IgE antibody production and leading to conditions like hay fever and asthma. The discovery has potential for guiding new drug development.
Researchers from UC San Diego and the University of Arizona conducted three months of rigorous earthquake simulation tests on a half-scale three-story structure, producing powerful jolts up to magnitude 8.0. The project aims to develop better designs for precast concrete buildings and improve their connections to resist earthquakes.
A new resource called Proteopedia links written information with interactive 3D images of biomacromolecules, enabling easy creation and editing by users. By integrating 3D structures with descriptive text, Proteopedia aims to make complex structural information comprehensible to all.
A new study in Journal of Consumer Research found that donors are more likely to respond to appeals involving negative emotions and a sense of obligation, rather than benefits to themselves. The research highlights the importance of empathy and altruism in driving charitable donations.
Research found that small packages trigger consumers to give in to temptation, while large packages are perceived as innocent pleasures, leading to overindulgence. Consumers believe that small packages help regulate hedonistic consumption, but reality shows the opposite.
Researchers at Texas Instruments have developed a low-cost, portable spirometer using microelectromechanical system (MEMS) technology. The device can measure airflow and volume in a patient's lungs and is ideal for remote monitoring by healthcare workers.
A study in the Journal of Consumer Research found that mini-packs and 100-calorie packages can undermine dieters' calorie control. Researchers discovered that chronic dieters tend to overconsume these small portions due to their perception of them as 'diet food'.
A team of Yale undergraduates collected and analyzed 135 endophytes from plants in the Amazon rainforest, discovering dozens with potential bioactivity. The study's findings highlight the vast scientific potential of tropical areas and the importance of preserving these microorganisms.
A new study reveals that H. pylori bacteria can exploit stomach cells to protect themselves from the immune system, increasing the risk of stomach cancer. The bacteria's interaction with gastric cells triggers a receptor called Decay-accelerating factor (DAF), which reduces immune damage and promotes chronic inflammation.
Researchers developed a tool, Distribution Builder, to help investors understand their risk attitudes and make informed decisions. The tool estimates unacceptable risk levels using probability distributions, enabling users to construct better preferences.
Researchers found that associating binge drinking with graduate students reduced junk food consumption by 28%. Linking unhealthy behaviors to an 'outgroup' can be a successful strategy for improving consumer health. By shifting perceptions of identity associated with risky behaviors, better health outcomes can be achieved.
A new study at Montana State University's Western Transportation Institute will use in-car cameras to monitor the effect of Montana's driver's education modules on teen attitudes and behaviors behind the wheel. Researchers aim to understand how these programs can help teens become better drivers and reduce fatal car accidents.
A new study found that focusing on the social benefits of having a beautiful smile is effective in improving dental hygiene habits among new immigrants. The research also shows that families from less acculturated backgrounds are more responsive to such messages.
Researchers in India developed an X-ray image analysis technique that detects the early stages of tooth decay by analyzing X-ray wavelengths. This method could help save affected teeth and prevent tooth loss.
A recent study published in BMC Cancer found that women who experienced multiple negative life events are at a higher risk of developing breast cancer. The research, conducted by Professor Ronit Peled and her team, suggests that a general feeling of happiness and optimism can play a protective role against the disease.
A new study by Debabrata Talukdar found that low-income households pay more for groceries without access to a car. This phenomenon, dubbed the 'ghetto tax,' is largely driven by the higher prices charged at corner stores, which lack competition from larger regional or national chains.
A new collaborative study explores how operations research can maximize efficient use of limited resources, including antiretroviral drugs and medical personnel. The researchers show that using mathematical modeling approaches can help plan national drug distribution systems and predict demand for services.
Researchers have found that cocaine-induced synaptic plasticity plays a crucial role in addiction development. By selectively switching off specific protein components, scientists have been able to induce persistent addictive behavior in mice.
The study found that recall of spoken digits was best when they came from the same loudspeaker, but degraded when switching attention to a new location. Sustaining attention to one continuous auditory stream led to refinements in selective attention over time.