Researchers found that silver-coated endotracheal tubes significantly reduced ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) rates, with a 36% decrease compared to uncoated tubes. The study also showed that silver-coated tubes can delay VAP onset and reduce its severity.
Rutgers University has received a $3.2 million grant from the NSF to equip experts in fields such as cell and molecular biology, computational modeling and biomaterials to move stem-cell breakthroughs from the biology lab into practical therapies. The program will also support training for underrepresented minorities and enhance divers...
A new test for West Nile virus in horses has been developed, which could be modified for use on humans and wildlife. The test is highly effective at diagnosing infections and provides accurate results, making it useful for tracking the ecology and epidemiology of the disease.
Scientists have developed a new instrument to create model nanocatalysts of molybdenum sulfide with atomic precision. The most reactive nanocluster had six atoms of molybdenum and eight atoms of sulfur, showing promise for improving hydrodesulfurization processes.
University of Houston researchers Yuriy Fofanov and Lennart Johnsson have developed computational tools to monitor microbial community sizes and genomic diversity. Their technology aims to better understand how human activities affect microbial communities governing human health and life on Earth.
Scientists have confirmed that century-long droughts occurred in eastern North America during the Holocene era, with evidence of seven major drought periods found in a stalagmite from West Virginia. The study suggests that weak solar activity cools the Atlantic Ocean and triggers droughts.
Researchers found that a portion of corn stover can be harvested for biofuel production without reducing soil organic carbon levels in high-yielding systems. This study suggests that corn stover could supply up to 25% of the biofuel crop needed by 2030.
The Large Hadron Collider is poised to generate a bonanza of experimental data, putting hotly debated theories to the test. Potential breakthroughs include an explanation of mass and identification of dark matter.
The P4P system drastically cuts network load through local file-sharing, with average data packets traveling just 160 miles and making fewer metro-hops. Local file sharing increased nearly tenfold from 6% to 58%, providing a basis for the future of peer-to-peer systems.
A study found that shipwrecks on coral reefs harbor unwanted species like Rhodactis howesii, which can overtake healthy coral and decrease diversity. Removing man-made debris could prevent further losses in species and habitat.
A UK-led team of scientists has developed a more accurate way of identifying aggressive forms of bowel cancer, which should lead to better treatment and survival rates. The study found that patients with a stem cell marker protein called Lamin A present in their tissue are more likely to have an aggressive form of the disease.
New research from the University of Toronto finds that workers with higher job authority report significantly higher levels of interpersonal conflict. Younger workers with power face the highest level of conflict in the workplace, while men with authority report more conflict than similarly-positioned women.
Concomitant zoledronic acid prevents bone loss and improves bone-mineral density in premenopausal women with breast cancer during adjuvant endocrine therapy. After treatment, zoledronic acid even increases bone-mineral density.
Researchers have developed a new temperature-regulating film that can be applied to micro-spacecraft, allowing them to withstand extreme heat and cold in space. This breakthrough technology has the potential to enable cheaper and more efficient satellite launches, opening up new applications for communications and defense.
Researchers found that a small genetic mutation alters the structure of ATP7B, a large complex protein regulating copper movement in human cells. The study sheds light on how this mutation leads to Wilson disease, which affects as many as 150,000 people worldwide.
Researchers at Penn have developed a theoretical framework for increasing the speed of light pulses in nanoscale metal chains, potentially enabling high-speed optical computing. The discovery may overcome limitations in optics and pave the way for novel optoelectronic devices.
Researchers have developed a new imaging system that highlights cancerous tissue, allowing surgeons to visualize and remove diseased tissue with greater precision. The FLARE system uses special chemical dyes and near-infrared light to 'cutting by color' tumors more easily.
A new study shows that people can create false memories of their past, which can lead to lasting changes in their behavior. Participants who were told they had become ill after eating egg salad as children avoided the food and gave it lower evaluations than those who did not develop false memories.
Researchers presented innovative studies on sexual function, finding that statins can improve erectile function in men with metabolic syndrome. Additionally, new studies suggest that androgen therapy may restore sexual function faster post-prostatectomy than PDE 5 inhibitors.
New research links human-driven changes in westerly winds to hotter and drier springs in the US Southwest. The shift in winter storm tracks has resulted in less precipitation and warmer conditions earlier in the year, affecting snowpack, hydrology, and water resources.
Five UCSF faculty members have received $13.7 million in funding from the California Institute for Regenerative Medicine to explore fundamental questions about embryonic stem cells and develop treatment strategies for conditions such as cancer and liver disease. The researchers will investigate molecular mechanisms, cell specialization...
Researchers at NIST and JQI have developed a technique to fine-tune light from quantum dots using laser pairs, potentially improving entangled photon generation for quantum information technologies. This breakthrough could accelerate advanced cryptography applications and pave the way for compact quantum dot devices.
Researchers found that many teens have misconceptions about emergency contraception, including side effects and confidentiality. Targeted health education is needed to address these concerns and promote effective use of the pill.
A protein complex regulating primary cilia formation has been identified by NYU researchers. The complex involves three proteins: CEP290, CP110, and Rab8a, which work together to promote cilia formation on mature cells. This discovery may lead to new drug targets for diseases such as polycystic kidney disease, retinal degeneration, and...
Researchers used ultrasound imaging to measure carotid artery plaque density and predict cardiovascular events. Patients with reduced plaque density had a significantly increased risk of near-future adverse events, highlighting the potential for this non-invasive technique to improve cardiovascular disease management.
A randomized controlled trial found that silver-coated endotracheal tubes significantly reduced the incidence of microbiologically confirmed ventilator-associated pneumonia, with a 34.2% relative reduction in risk. The tubes were also associated with a delayed occurrence of pneumonia and no notable adverse events.
Researchers at the University of Glasgow found that cultural differences influence how people look at faces, with Westerners focusing on specific features like eyes and mouths, while Easterners focus on the nose or centre of the face. This study provides insight into why non-verbal communication between people from different cultures c...
PNNL scientists are harnessing the power of catalysis to address real-world energy problems, including hydrogen oxidation and production for fuel cells. Researchers are also exploring alternative catalysts using inexpensive metals like nickel and cobalt to reduce costs.
The American Chemical Society meeting focuses on the health benefits of phytochemicals in fruits and vegetables, with studies showing a significant reduction in cancer and cardiovascular disease risk. Recent research indicates that adding one serving of fruits and vegetables to diet can reduce cardiovascular diseases by up to 7 percent.
The Woods Institute has awarded five faculty planning grants to develop long-term research programs at Stanford, focusing on solving the world's water demands. The grants aim to identify promising solutions to freshwater challenges and facilitate partnerships among academics, businesses, and policymakers.
A team of researchers discovered a novel fungus in the gut of Asian longhorned beetles that helps break down lignin, a protective barrier for plants. The fungus produces enzymes that enable the beetles to digest hard wood, leading to potential breakthroughs in pest control and biofuel production.
A Northwestern University study has discovered a new mechanism for cell fate determination in yeast cells, showing why mothers and daughters express genes differently. The researchers found that a protein regulator gets trapped in the daughter nucleus, turning on genes that make it distinct from the mother.
Researchers use acoustic tags to track Atlantic salmon migration, finding valuable information about fish movements and survival rates. Early data suggest many young salmon are surviving their journey to the Labrador Sea and coastal West Greenland.
Recent studies shed new light on the late Paleozoic ice age, revealing a dynamic icehouse regime and challenging traditional interpretations. This improved understanding can aid in preparing for rising atmospheric carbon dioxide levels and global temperature increases.
Researchers at UC San Diego found that ship smoke can be a significant contributor to poor air quality in coastal cities, particularly in California. The study reveals that high-sulfur fuel emissions from ships burning bunker oil can produce primary sulfate particles, which are especially fine and harmful to human health.
Researchers developed an algorithm called XL that significantly reduces network routing updates, making it possible to support larger networks and improve efficiency for low-power devices with slow links. The algorithm uses three rules to determine which updates are important and can be suppressed.
New research challenges the trend of holding kids out of kindergarten until they're older, arguing that academic advantages are short-lived. Older kindergartners initially outperform younger peers, but their edge soon fades by eighth grade.
A new study found a cancer gene in swordtail fish is conserved due to its role in attracting female mates. The melanoma gene creates an attractive natural marking that lures females, but the population also keeps the prevalence of the gene in check.
A large study published in Annals of Internal Medicine found that West Nile virus patients experience similar physical and mental function recoveries, regardless of neurological symptoms, with pre-existing health conditions affecting prognosis. Recovery times averaged around one year.
Researchers at Albert Einstein College of Medicine found that a component of intestinal bacteria helps HIV penetrate the blood-brain barrier, increasing the risk of cognitive disorders. The discovery could lead to new strategies for preventing HIV from entering the brain and causing serious complications.
Researchers at Caltech and the University of Washington aim to design complex molecular systems using computer science principles, enabling systematic design and implementation in the laboratory. The project may lead to revolutionary changes in fields such as nanotechnology and biochemical circuitry.
Researchers found that teenagers with low sleep efficiency and short sleep duration are at a higher risk of elevated blood pressure and pre-hypertension. The study suggests that optimizing sleep quality is essential for preventing high blood pressure and other health problems in adolescents.
A recent study found that over 30% of American public schools are within 400 meters of major highways, putting children at risk for respiratory diseases. The research suggests that proximity to highways and environmental pollutants can leave school-age children more susceptible to asthma and other chronic respiratory problems.
A new study by UCL and the University of Melbourne found that Aboriginal children from restricted vocabularies could copy and perform number-related tasks. They were able to recognize and represent numerosities without relying on number words, suggesting an innate system for counting.
The Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources has partnered with the Dauphin Island Sea Lab to conduct extensive habitat restoration, monitoring, and research along the Alabama coast. The partnership will utilize $1.5 million in funding to construct shoreline restoration projects and monitor their efficacy.
Long-term West Nile virus infection recovery is possible within a year, with brain affected patients taking slightly longer to recover. Vitamin D deficiency is also identified as a risk factor for hip fractures in older women.
A linear mathematical model allows for estimation of minimal detectable tumor sizes, based on blood tumor biomarker assays. The model relates secreted blood biomarker levels to tumor sizes, providing a tool for cancer screening and monitoring.
A new international study found that Indigenous Australian children who speak languages with few number words can still demonstrate strong numeracy skills based on quantity and spatial concepts. Their skills are equal to those of English-speaking Indigenous children.
Researchers found that V para hijacks host cell processes to trigger rapid autophagy, leading to cell death within three hours. The study highlights the importance of understanding this pathogen's molecular mechanisms to develop effective treatments.
Researchers found that piling on homework has a larger impact on math test scores for high and low achievers, but less so for average achievers. This suggests alternative approaches, such as sports or art, may be more beneficial for this group.
A survey of trauma professionals and the general public reveals differing opinions on end-of-life care following severe injuries. While both groups prefer palliative care, there are disparities in views on patients' rights to demand care and the role of divine intervention.
Researchers are conducting a clinical trial using low-dose contraceptives to treat premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), which affects 5-10% of women. The study aims to understand the underlying physiology and develop new treatments for this debilitating condition.
The University of Texas at San Antonio has been awarded a five-year, $9 million grant from the National Institutes of Health to support 10 faculty research projects. The funding will increase participation of individuals from minority or underrepresented groups in scientific research.
A study found that smoking is associated with a higher rate of bleeding in patients undergoing uvulopalatopharyngoplasty and tonsillectomy. Smokers experienced a 10.9% post-operative hemorrhage rate, compared to 3.3% for non-smokers.
A new study suggests that grazing animals in the Arctic can reduce the expected expansion of shrub growth, which would otherwise help mitigate climate change by absorbing more carbon dioxide. The researchers found that muskoxen and caribou reduced shrub growth by 19-46% in plots with increased temperatures.
A new probe that uses light to detect skin cancer has received more funding for clinical trials. The device, called a 'clinical spectrometer,' can take measurements and identify cancerous cells within seconds.
Research reveals physicians often grapple with balancing patient needs with those of surrogates in medical decision-making. Surrogate decision-makers' wishes can sometimes take precedence over patient prior wishes, highlighting the complexity of this process.
University of Missouri researchers are studying facial features and brain structures in children with autism to develop a formula for earlier detection. The study aims to reveal genetic clues that can direct additional research and lead to more precise diagnosis.
Researchers analyzed data from five trials involving 158 patients and found that chewing sugarless gum three times a day reduced the time to pass flatus and have a bowel movement. The study suggests that gum chewing may stimulate nerves in the digestive system, triggering the release of gastrointestinal hormones.
A recent study found that elderly trauma patients are undertriaged and less likely to be transported to trauma centers compared to younger patients. The study suggests that unconscious age bias among emergency medical services personnel may contribute to this disparity.