Experts warn that retirement accounts lost 18% of value between 2007-2008, and housing prices fell by 4-20% in the same period. The current financial crisis affects those planning to spend down assets in retirement.
A new study of 21 countries reveals that public attitudes toward government involvement in health care vary widely, but ultimately support a role for the state in ensuring access. The findings suggest that any major overhaul of health care systems is unlikely due to cultural and historical factors.
A study found that older adults taking rosiglitazone had a 15% higher rate of death and 13% greater risk of heart failure compared to those taking pioglitazone. The authors highlight the need to consider all-cause mortality risk in elderly patients, as rosiglitazone's cardiovascular effects may be more pronounced.
Researchers at Los Alamos National Laboratory have identified two distinct regions with an excess of cosmic rays, challenging nearly a century-old understanding of galactic magnetic fields. The Milagro observatory recorded over 200 billion cosmic-ray collisions, revealing statistically significant peaks in specific regions of the sky.
The European Science Foundation's EUROCORES programme enhances European leadership in international marine coring expeditions. The project investigates ocean dynamics, sediment fluxes, and hydrothermal processes to reconstruct sea-level changes and environmental shifts.
Growing plants and trees on landfills can reduce greenhouse gas emissions by four to five times. Phytocapping also cuts the cost of landfill remediation in half and provides biodiversity corridors. The technique uses a layer of top soil and dense vegetation to trap methane and water.
Phycologists and algal biotechnologists in China are addressing pressing issues in algae research, including resource exhaustion and environmental impact. The country's largest seaweed cultivation industry has become a crucial driver of innovation and growth in the field.
The presence of mineral oil in edible oils and foods exceeds recommended safety limits, raising concerns about human health. Analytical campaigns are underway to address this issue and provide toxicological data for improved safety evaluation.
Researchers discovered a Seychelles fly species that lays larvae instead of eggs, potentially revealing an evolutionary step to live birth. The study found that these flies' eggs hatch quickly and develop advanced structures, suggesting a unique reproductive strategy.
A team led by researchers at San Diego Supercomputer Center successfully completed record-setting, petascale-level simulations of the earth's inner structure. They achieved a shortest period of 1.15 seconds and 161 teraflops, using 149,784 cores.
Undergrads are enlisted by lecturers to tackle DNA annotation challenge using innovative Annotathon approach. This teaching method trains students as apprentice bioinformaticians to analyze unknown metagenomic DNA fragments and gain confidence in bioinformatics.
A new study published in PLoS Medicine finds that artemisinin combination therapy (ACT) can reduce malaria transmission in low-transmission areas, comparable to the use of insecticide-treated bed nets. Longer-acting anti-malarial regimens may also be effective in reducing transmission in high-transmission areas.
A new study found that African American adolescent girls whose mothers used psychological control, such as guilt trips and withdrawn affection, reported higher levels of depressive symptoms. In contrast, boys showed no such effect. The researchers suggest a need for parents to strike a balance between giving children autonomy and guidi...
The Milagro collaboration has discovered two nearby regions with an unexpected excess of cosmic rays, suggesting the presence of high-energy particle acceleration near Earth. This finding is the second recent study indicating a source of galactic cosmic rays relatively close to our planet.
Researchers at Joslin Diabetes Center have identified pancreatic progenitors that can form into insulin-producing cells after birth or injury, contradicting earlier studies. This finding offers new hope for treating and potentially curing diabetes through replacement therapy.
The Panamanian termite has recorded the fastest mandible strike ever, with footage showing a soldier termite's jaws striking an invader at speeds of up to 70 meters per second. This rapid strike is thought to be due to the termites' need to store energy in their mandibles to generate force.
Research challenges the idea that longer sperm are faster due to drag from their heads. Streamlining and tail shape may be more important factors in determining sperm performance.
Researchers at the University of Utah have developed a synthetic version of sandcastle worm glue, which has shown promise in repairing shattered bone fragments. The glue performs 37% as well as commercial superglue in lab tests and may be used to align small bone fragments in joints and the face before they heal.
Researchers found blood transfusions in hospitalized cancer patients increased venous thromboembolism (VTE) and arterial thromboembolism (ATE) rates, comparable to erythropoiesis-stimulating agents (ESAs). This study highlights the need for cautious use of transfusions and exploration of ways to reduce clot risk in cancer patients.
Parkin protein prompts neuronal survival by clearing damaged mitochondria. Researchers found that Parkin translocates to mitochondria upon damage, sending them to autophagosomes for degradation. This process prevents damaged mitochondria from triggering cell death.
In a breakthrough study, researchers discovered that social amoebas form multi-cellular organisms with genetically similar 'kin' to ensure survival. By aggregating based on genetic similarity rather than true kinship, cells can increase their chances of reproducing and passing on their genes.
In response to environmental stress, yeast cells trigger a protein-misfolding mechanism that reveals hidden genetic variation, allowing them to adapt and evolve rapidly. This 'prion switching' enables cells to digest previously inaccessible materials, such as certain nutrients and antibiotics, without prior genetic mutation.
Researchers at University of Warwick developed a single-step process to coat polymers with silica-based nanoparticles, creating versatile materials for self-healing paints and intelligent packaging. The process produces high-performance materials with tailored water or air permeability.
A new study published in Neurology found that growth hormone insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) does not slow the progression of weakness in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). The two-year study involved 330 people with ALS and found no difference in muscle strength between those taking IGF-1 and placebo, as well as no differences ...
The turkey genome will be assembled using shotgun fragments and paired-end reads, providing benefits for researchers studying commercially important sources of food. The project aims to sequence over 95% of the turkey genome, offering tools for improving commercial breeds and understanding disease development.
A new NC State study reveals that consumers comparing prices online can pressure retailers into offering discounts, particularly if they shop around frequently. The study found that larger retailers may limit price cuts to avoid giving smaller competitors an advantage.
A new global measure of coral reef health has been developed using light pollution index, revealing the impact of human activity on ocean health. The study found that coral reefs near urban areas, gas flares, and fishing boat activity have higher stress levels.
A recent study discovered that Helicobacter pylori bacteria can be found in the mouths of people with halitosis without showing signs of stomach disease. The researchers found a significant association between the presence of H. pylori and periodontal disease, which is also a cause of bad breath.
Researchers found a specific signaling pathway controlling stomata development, allowing plants to adapt to changing climate conditions. The discovery provides insights into how plants regulate their water and carbon dioxide intake, crucial for survival.
A team of scientists found that bacterial biofilms can completely replace embryo cell structure, generating a faithful replica of the embryo. The bacteria consume and replace all cytoplasm in cells, creating a detailed model of the embryo.
Researchers identify COPI complex as a regulator of lipid homeostasis, finding it reduces PAT protein expression at the lipid droplet surface. This study reveals COPI's role in energy storage and shedding, with implications for treating obesity and metabolic disorders.
Researchers found that social amoebae, such as Dictyostelium discoideum, aggregate based on genetic similarity to minimize conflict and increase chances of gene reproduction. This self/non-self mechanism is similar to immune systems in higher organisms.
A study by Sarah Kendig and Suzanne Bianchi found that single mothers spend less time with their children than married mothers. However, if single mothers had similar levels of education and employment as married mothers, they would spend the same amount of time with their children.
A study by USC biologists found that older female flies can live 5-30% longer and produce more offspring when altered to over-express specific genes. This challenges the long-held idea of a tradeoff between reproduction and longevity.
Researchers found increased levels of pathogenic bacteria on surfaces and in the air inside cars behind trucks carrying broiler chickens. The study, published in the Journal of Infection and Public Health, suggests a real exposure potential for antibiotic-resistant organisms, particularly during summer months when windows are open.
A new study reveals ocean acidification is occurring at a rate 10 times faster than previously predicted, posing severe threats to marine food webs and species diversity. The increasing acidity of the ocean harms certain sea animals and could reduce its ability to absorb carbon dioxide.
Research by scientists at the University of Toronto Scarborough reveals that global warming changes the molecular composition of soil organic matter. This shift in soil chemistry could significantly impact agriculture and the environment.
A new study found that adolescents are more likely to smoke when their parents begin smoking at a young age and the smoking persists over time. The study used longitudinal data to identify parental smoking behaviors as predictors of adolescent smoking risk.
Researchers have discovered a peptide that converts the Bcl-2 protein from a cancer cell's friend to a foe, allowing it to kill cancer cells and shrink tumors. This breakthrough could lead to the development of new cancer-fighting drugs targeting Bcl-2.
The InVacc platform generates vaccines with enhanced properties, triggering a broader immune response and enabling faster protection against deadly diseases. The platform overcomes limitations of traditional DNA vaccines by decoding genetic material and presenting antigens to the immune system.
Biochemists at North Carolina State University have developed a new understanding of how bacterial proteins make life-or-death decisions by controlling DNA binding. The findings could lead to new targets for drugs to disrupt bacterial decision-making processes and related diseases.
Researchers at the University of Florida and the University of New Mexico have developed microscopic spheres that trap and kill harmful bacteria using conducting polymers and singlet oxygen. The spheres, dubbed 'roach motels,' showed promising results in killing over 95% of nearby bacteria after exposure to light.
Researchers at the University of Arizona Health Sciences found that gasping in cardiac arrest patients increases their chances of survival. In over half of witnessed cases, patients gasped after collapsing, and those who did survived at a higher rate than those who didn't.
MIT engineers have discovered that a specific region of the kinesin protein generates the force needed for its movement. The research, published in PNAS, sheds light on how this protein enables functions such as cell division and may one day aid in developing therapies for diseases like cancer.
Researchers have discovered how a macromolecular machine unwinds DNA within cells, allowing genetic information to be read and used to direct protein synthesis. The structure of the RSC chromatin remodeling complex provides important insights into this critical process.
Private sector involvement in delivering healthcare could be a solution for low-income countries struggling with weak health systems. However, critics argue that private risk-sharing schemes and insurance are not accessible to the poorest groups, highlighting the importance of public financing of healthcare.
Telcagepant has shown efficacy in treating moderate to severe migraines, offering a safer alternative to triptans with fewer side effects. The study analyzed 1380 patients and found telcagepant 300mg to be more effective than placebo for freedom from pain and other symptoms.
Researchers using robotic lizards in Puerto Rico's forests showed that animals can use visual displays to grab their neighbors' attention before initiating more information-rich performances. Pushups and rapid dewlap extensions prompted neighboring lizards to orient themselves more quickly, confirming a nearly 30-year-old hypothesis.
A randomized trial involving 234 obese women found that telephone counseling and face-to-face follow-up sessions were more effective than weight loss education alone in maintaining weight loss, especially in rural communities where healthcare barriers are significant. Telephone counseling was also found to be cost-efficient.
Researchers found that brown rats in Europe carry several pathogenic species of Bartonella bacteria, including B. elizabethae, which can cause heart disease in humans. The study raises concerns about the existence of other reservoirs and vectors for this emerging infection.
Researchers at Penn School of Medicine found that cells reorganize their internal skeleton to adjust their shape in response to external forces. This discovery validates a common theory in cell biology and has implications for understanding certain diseases, including cancer.
A team of Australian astronomers discovered a puzzling lack of hydrogen gas in distant galaxies, which contradicts expectations based on the Universe's life cycle. The observed absence may be due to the destruction of hydrogen by quasars' intense radiation, leaving behind only ionised particles.
A non-invasive device has been shown to treat obesity and resolve diabetes in an animal model by altering complex gastrointestinal signals. The procedure resulted in a significant reduction in food intake and weight loss, as well as restoration of normal glucose metabolism.
A study of 273 adolescents found that those who had early sex were more likely to have lower academic achievement, depression, ADHD, and ODD. Parents' positive influence was also shown to reduce risky sexual behavior during adolescence.
A study published in PLOS Medicine found that peer-led sex education in English schools did not reduce teenage abortions, but pupils preferred the approach. The trial involved 9,000 students and showed no significant difference in abortion rates between peer-led and teacher-led sessions at age 20.
Researchers found that diuretics commonly prescribed for high blood pressure can lower serum potassium levels, increasing the risk of type 2 diabetes. The study examined data from 3,790 nondiabetic participants and found a 45% increased risk of diabetes for each 0.5 milliequivalent-per-liter decrease in potassium levels.
Researchers discovered that misfolded proteins trigger a mechanism in yeast cells, allowing them to adapt to stress and evolve more quickly. Under stressful conditions, the cells create prions, which can induce beneficial changes, such as enhanced growth on energy sources or resistance to antibiotics.
A recent study found that nearly a quarter of centenarians (25%) exhibit clinically relevant levels of depressive symptoms, yet only 8% receive an official diagnosis. Poor nutritional status, urinary incontinence, and past history of anxiety are potential contributing factors.
Researchers at MIT have developed a new method for boosting the efficiency of solar photovoltaic cells by up to 50%. By applying antireflection coatings and complex reflective layer designs, they were able to increase the energy conversion rate. This breakthrough has significant implications for the future of renewable energy and could...
Researchers at MIT have discovered that adult brain neurons can remodel their connections, challenging long-held assumptions about the brain's ability to change. This breakthrough could lead to a better understanding of how to promote growth in cells and regions normally unable to repair themselves.
A recent study published in PLOS Medicine found that a quarter of submitted drug trials remain unpublished five years later. Trials with favorable outcomes were more likely to be published, while those without favorable outcomes often had outcomes omitted or altered to favor the test drug.
Researchers at Scripps Florida found that blocking hypocretin-1 receptors significantly decreased nicotine self-administration and motivation in rats, suggesting a potential target for developing new smoking cessation treatments. The study highlights the importance of hypocretin-1 receptors in regulating nicotine reward and motivation.
Researchers have developed a model predicting recurrence in early-stage colon cancer patients and sensitivity to chemotherapy and targeted therapies. Gene expression analysis reveals specific patterns associated with higher cancer risk, enabling targeted treatments to prevent recurrences and improve survival rates.
A new study finds that racial prejudice in Britain has been declining since the 1980s, with younger generations showing greater tolerance towards ethnic minorities. The study also reveals significant generational changes in attitudes, with women and more educated individuals expressing less prejudice.
A study found that ACTs could reduce malaria transmission by up to 53% in areas of low transmission, compared to 21% in high transmission areas. Long-acting antimalarial regimens may be needed in high transmission settings to achieve significant reductions.
Three studies show that becoming circumcised reduces a man's chances of acquiring HIV from an infected woman by approximately half. The Male Circumcision Consortium will work to expand voluntary male circumcision services in Kenya and other African countries, with the goal of saving millions of lives.
Dolphins produce more force than previously thought to overcome drag, contradicting Sir James Gray's hypothesis. Researchers use cutting-edge technology to measure dolphin tail forces, finding an average of 200 pounds of force.
A study found that continuous blood pressure monitoring can help predict heart disease and related deaths among individuals with treatment-resistant hypertension. In contrast, blood pressure readings taken in a medical office do not appear to predict future heart risks.
A Cincinnati Children's study identifies a familial genetic cause for Pulmonary Alveolar Proteinosis (PAP), a lung disease causing labored breathing and respiratory failure. The research team proposes an inhaled GM-CSF aerosol as a potential treatment to correct surfactant levels, offering new hope for patients suffering from the condi...
Cincinnati Children's scientists have discovered a critical gene that regulates lung maturation and surfactant production in newborns. Deletion of the Foxm1 gene led to immature lungs and respiratory distress in mice, highlighting its importance for human health.
The Novo-TTF device was shown to enhance the efficacy of standard chemotherapy in treating newly-diagnosed glioblastoma multiforme patients. Combination therapy with the device prolonged time to disease progression by nearly 31 months and increased survival by more than 25 months compared to historical results.
Researchers at UCSD have discovered a novel drug target, phosphodiesterase 7B (PDE7B), for treating chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). Blocking PDE7B increases cAMP levels and causes CLL cells to undergo programmed cell death.
A three-country study found that women taking fluoxetine during pregnancy gave birth to four times as many babies with heart problems, while those taking paroxetine had three times higher levels. Smoking over ten cigarettes a day was associated with a five-fold increase in major heart problems.
The new journal covers the principles and practice of food security, analyzing it from various disciplines. It aims to define constraints preventing one billion people from accessing adequate nutrition and address means to overcome them.
A study by Dr. Nabil G. Seidah's team reveals that annexin A2 can inhibit PCSK9's degradation of the LDLR receptor, leading to lower bad cholesterol levels. This discovery paves the way for a new drug to target cardiovascular diseases.
Researchers at the University of Washington have reported that mammals can be stimulated to regrow inner nerve cells in their damaged retinas. The study used a specific type of cell called Müller glia and found that it could be encouraged to regenerate in living mice by injecting growth factors.
A cross-sectional survey in northern Uganda found that IDPs experience negative effects on physical and mental health due to factors like gender, age, income, distance from home areas, food security, and sense of safety. The study also highlights the importance of emotional support using family ties for better mental health.
Experts call for more focused efforts on delivering better quality food aid to prevent and treat malnutrition in high-burden areas. A broader strategy involving local agricultural development and empowering women is needed to address global food insecurity.
The Oklahoma Experimental Program to Stimulate Competitive Research has received $20 million from the NSF and State Regents for a five-year project focused on cellulosic biomass. Researchers will explore molecular mechanisms, microbial conversion, and new catalytic/thermochemical processes to develop alternative energy solutions.
A study found breast cancer rates increased in women screened every two years compared to those screened once, suggesting some cancers may spontaneously regress. The findings raise concerns about the value of mammography and highlight the need for further research into breast cancer's natural history.
The Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute has launched an online information system to identify and generate maps for 1,287 tropical eastern Pacific shore fish species. The system allows users to search by common name, location, shape, and color, and provides detailed information on each species.
The New York Center for Astrobiology will investigate the origins of life on Earth and conditions that lead to habitable planets. Researchers aim to detect evidence of current or past life on Mars, building on NASA missions.
Double-balloon enteroscopy is a cost-effective approach for patients with obscure gastrointestinal bleeding, offering reduced costs and complications compared to other diagnostic methods. The study suggests that an initial capsule-directed double-balloon enteroscopy may be preferred over other options due to its potential for fewer com...
A new study finds that regular aerobic exercise significantly reduces anger expression and aggressive behavior in overweight but otherwise healthy children. The 10-15 week afterschool exercise program improved the children's ability to control their anger and aggression, according to the Pediatric Anger Expression Scale.
A team of Berkeley Lab researchers won a prestigious Gordon Bell Prize for their algorithm innovation in high-performance computing. They developed the Linearly Scaling 3D Fragment (LS3DF) method to efficiently simulate the behavior of nanostructures, achieving impressive performance and scalability.
Researchers at Penn State have discovered that not all DNA segments bound to the GATA1 protein are conserved across mammals, challenging previous assumptions. They found that 45% of these segments retain their identical form in other species, suggesting purifying selection maintains most regulatory regions.
A new theory in evolutionary biology proposes that sex promotes genes' ability to perform well with many partners rather than just one specific set of genes. This idea, called genetic mixability, finds that sexual reproduction favors genes that work well across multiple variations.
Researchers at USC have discovered a novel approach to suppressing prostate cancer development by inactivating a specific protein biomarker. By blocking the glucose-regulated protein GRP78, they found that prostate tumor progression can be halted in animal models.
Researchers have discovered a new species of leprosy-causing bacteria, Mycobacterium lepromatosis, which attacks skin vasculature and leads to extensive skin death. The finding could account for geographical and individual variation in the disease's severity.