Researchers at UCLA have developed a new polymer that significantly improves sunlight absorption and conversion capabilities in solar cells. The silole-containing polymer can also be crystalline, making it suitable for high-efficiency solar cells, with the goal of reaching 10% efficiency.
New research by UCLA geochemists suggests that plate tectonics began more than 4 billion years ago, with ancient mineral grains indicating low heat flow and water presence on Earth during its first 500 million years.
Two new papers by University of Notre Dame biologist Michael Ferdig suggest that genomics and bioinformatics may hold the key to combating malaria. The research reveals previously unrecognized transcriptional complexity in Plasmodium falciparum, a key driver of drug resistance.
A Penn State study found that obese rats are less sensitive to sweet tastes and prefer sweeter foods due to a weakened response to weak concentrations, leading to a vicious circle of overeating and sugar cravings. The research suggests that the brain's reward center is affected by the increased consumption of sugary foods.
Scientists have found evidence that turtle shells are bony extensions of their backbones and ribs. The oldest known turtle fossil, Odontochelys semitestacea, has a partial shell extending from its backbone and widening of ribs, suggesting it was a water dweller.
Research from the University of Leicester reveals that nitric oxide can alter brain function, impacting neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's. The finding suggests a potential new approach for treating these conditions and gaining a deeper understanding of brain function.
Researchers at the Rong Li Lab discovered that yeast cells can adapt to disruptions in cell division machinery by increasing their chromosome number and modifying gene expression patterns. This ability may contribute to cancer cell evasiveness and could be used to predict evolutionary paths and outcomes.
A University of Alberta study shows that rethinking jobs can significantly boost morale, job retention, and productivity. The 'Spirit at Work' intervention program reduced absenteeism and turnover rates among long-term health-care workers.
New research confirms that 64-CT scans can accurately diagnose coronary artery blockages, rivaling invasive cardiac catheterization. The technology also has the potential to reduce cardiac catheterizations and serve as an alternative to cardiac stress testing.
A research team at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine has discovered a key molecular partnership that coordinates body rhythms and metabolism, leading to leaner mice and improved insulin sensitivity. The study suggests that disrupting this partnership could be a valuable new weapon in the fight against obesity and diabetes.
A recent study published in Pediatrics found that children with misaligned eyes are at a significantly increased risk of developing mental illness by early adulthood. Children with exotropia (eyes that diverge outward) were three times more likely to develop psychiatric disorders than those with normal eye alignment.
Researchers have discovered a possible therapy for mucolipidosis type IV (ML4), a disease causing nerve cell death and progressive motor function loss in children. Introducing normal blood cells into genetically modified fruit flies with ML4 symptoms delayed cell death, suggesting bone marrow transplantation as a treatment option.
A study published in Atherosclerosis reveals that binge drinking causes an irregular pattern of heavy drinking to clog blood vessels, leading to a two-fold increase in fatal heart attack risk. Acetaldehyde levels found in the blood after binge drinking increase monocyte adhesion to blood vessel walls.
A new study published in The Lancet shows that there is no definitive difference in outcomes between using general or local anaesthetic for carotid surgery. The randomised controlled trial analysed over 3,500 patients and found similar incidence rates of stroke, heart attack, and death in both groups.
Researchers at Yale University have demonstrated a marriage of nanophotonics and nanomechanics, enabling extreme miniaturization of optics and mechanics on silicon chips. The photon force is strong enough to operate nanoscale machinery, paving the way for ultra-high speed and low power telecommunications.
A new study by Stanford University researchers found that nifedipine, a muscle relaxant, has no effect on prolonging pregnancy after preterm labor is halted. The study suggests that prolonged treatment with nifedipine does not appear to be an answer in preventing premature birth.
Researchers at Northwestern University's Feinberg School of Medicine discovered a link between chronic pain and brain rewiring in complex region pain syndrome (CRPS). The study found changes in the brain's white matter, which dispatch messages between neurons, contributing to the condition.
A new study reveals childhood constipation can lead to serious health issues, pain, and low self-esteem, with treatment costs equivalent to those of asthma or ADHD. Simple changes in diet and behavior, such as regular bowel movements and high-fiber foods, can help prevent or correct constipation.
New research on Galapagos land iguanas reveals reduced genetic diversity in some populations, putting them at risk from future environmental changes. The study's findings highlight the need for effective management and conservation strategies to ensure the long-term survival of these unique reptiles.
Professor Chandramouli's paper, titled A game theoretic framework for distributed self-coexistence among IEEE 802.22 networks, is one of 11 papers selected to receive a GLOBECOM '08 Best Paper Award. The award recognizes the author's work on cognitive radio based IEEE 802.22 wireless regional area network (WRAN) that operates in under-...
A three-year study found that vitamin K supplementation improved insulin resistance in elderly men, while worsening it in women and those not given supplements. Vitamin K may help regulate glucose metabolism by storing in fat tissue.
Researchers at Brandeis University have discovered a specific set of wake-promoting neurons in fruit flies that are analogous to cells in the human sleep circuit. The study found that these neurons play a crucial role in regulating sleep-wake cycles and that targeting them could lead to the development of more effective sleep treatments.
A study comparing two immunosuppression tapering approaches for kidney transplant recipients with BKVAN found that reducing immunosuppressive therapy can lower the risk of graft loss. Early withdrawal of immunosuppressive drugs within one month after diagnosis reduced graft loss by two-thirds.
The SIM-sponsored survey found that businesses are using IT to reduce costs and increase productivity, with CIOs spending most of their time on non-technical issues. Organizations with higher IT business alignment maturity scores tend to have better overall company performance.
Researchers have identified a previously unknown mechanism that processes non-coding RNA molecules into smaller pieces, including a new class of small RNAs called mascRNA. This discovery suggests that the vast majority of human DNA may not be genetic junk, but instead performs various kinds of work in cells.
A noninvasive test analyzing proteins in urine can identify failing transplanted kidneys, allowing for more accurate monitoring and treatment of transplant patients. The study found that the test correctly identified patients with interstitial fibrosis and tubular atrophy and chronic antibody-mediated rejection.
Scientists investigate Tamiflu's environmental fate and its impact on the development of resistant influenza viruses in Japan, a major consumer of the drug. The research aims to understand potential threats to global defenses against future pandemics.
Researchers discovered that serious gram-negative bacterial infections increase by up to 46% in summer compared to winter. The study found that Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Acinetobacter baumannii are the most affected bacteria.
Researchers at Yale University have identified a naturally occurring molecule called NAPEs that can help regulate appetite and reduce food intake in rats and mice. The study found that NAPEs injections led to weight loss and reduced activity of hunger neurons in the brain.
A recent study published in Diabetes Care highlights the significant barriers faced by type 1 diabetics when it comes to engaging in physical activity. The researchers found that those with a greater fear of hypoglycemia were also more likely to have poorer diabetes control, emphasizing the need for targeted education and support.
A recent study published in Arthritis Research & Therapy found that more effective use of existing arthritis treatments is crucial for achieving better patient outcomes. The research, led by Isidoro González-Alvaro, suggests that disease activity and disability have improved independently of new therapies.
A University of Michigan study found that older people who spent at least 14 hours a week caring for a disabled spouse lived longer than others. Providing care can have beneficial health effects and may reduce stress related to witnessing a loved one suffer.
The Integrated Blood-Barcode Chip (IBBC) is a revolutionary diagnostic tool that measures protein concentrations from just a pinprick of blood. The device offers a significant improvement over traditional laboratory tests, reducing costs and time by orders of magnitude.
A review of 11 randomized trials found no benefit in survival from inhaled corticosteroid therapy for stable COPD. However, the use of ICS was associated with a higher incidence of pneumonia in patients with COPD.
Researchers discovered a greater level of genetic complexity for diseases than thought, focusing on iminoglycinuria and hyperglycinuria disorders. The study found that up to four different pumps in the kidney determine the disorder's occurrence, suggesting a need for integrated complex genetic information.
David Baker is being honored for his work on predicting protein structures from amino acid sequences and developing new protein folds. His research has led to practical applications in designing new medications and molecular therapies, as well as a better understanding of degenerative diseases.
Scientists discovered that atomic nuclei in NMR experiments behave according to super-adiabaticity, a quantum mechanical concept. This can help improve image resolution and potentially lead to portable MRI machines.
Researchers found that oxidantive stress impairs EPC function, a critical determinant in maintaining a healthy cardiovascular system. High cholesterol and oxidative stress are linked to cardiovascular diseases and diabetes.
Researchers have effectively repaired damaged heart muscle using a novel population of stem cells derived from human skeletal muscle tissue. The transplanted myoendothelial cells improved heart function and reduced scar tissue, showing promise for regenerative medicine therapies.
Researchers at Argonne National Laboratory have created new agent-based models to better understand market behavior and predict potential economic catastrophes. These models use information from surveys and simulations to forecast how individual actors in a market make decisions, allowing policymakers to anticipate and avoid meltdowns.
Researchers found that genetically similar strains of Dictyostelium discoideum mix and cooperate during colony formation, contradicting earlier assumptions. The study's findings suggest specific genes produce sticky adhesives to secure partner connections.
A recent study found that prejudice influences people's perceptions of what ethnic minority faces look like, with prejudiced individuals viewing certain faces as more criminal-looking. The research suggests that this bias may serve as a stereotype-maintaining device.
Researchers have discovered a new mathematical framework, superadiabaticity, to optimize magnetic resonance pulse sequences in MRI scans. This breakthrough could lead to sharper images, more informative scans, and potentially even portable MRI machines.
Vasovagal syncope is a common emergency situation in dental offices, characterized by loss of consciousness and muscle tone. Patients experiencing symptoms such as dizziness, lightheadedness, or pain may have an underlying cause that can lead to a life-threatening situation.
A new study by Joslin researchers found that a common genetic variant associated with an increased risk of coronary artery disease is also linked to poor glycemic control in people with diabetes. Those with the variant and poor glucose control experienced a four-fold increased risk for CAD relative to those without the variant and good...
Researchers analyzed data from 13 prospective studies involving over half a million participants and found no link between fat, protein, or meat intake and kidney cancer. The study's findings suggest that the cause of increasing kidney cancer incidence worldwide remains unclear.
A study found a correlation between genetic variations in donor-recipient HLA protein matches and increased risk of delayed allograft function. Researchers hope to validate their findings with larger datasets to improve matching and reduce complications.
A new simulation by UC Berkeley geophysicist Burkhard Militzer predicts Jupiter's rocky core is 14-18 times Earth's mass, surrounded by layers of metals, rocks, and icy materials. The result challenges previous models and provides a more precise physical description of Jupiter's interior.
The Extended Submillimeter Array (eSMA) enables the study of the formation of new stars and planets using submillimetre light. Post-doc Sandrine Bottinelli used the telescope to determine the ratio of atomic to molecular carbon in an extremely distant galaxy.
A tracking and feedback system reduced racial disparities in adjuvant therapy among women with early-stage breast cancer, increasing consultations with medical oncologists by 14 percentage points. The study found a decrease in underuse of adjuvant treatment, particularly among black and Hispanic women.
A study by K-State psychologist Satoris Culbertson found that perceived family-friendly environments benefit both individuals and organizations. The research showed that these environments increase intent to remain in the military and unit capability of successful performance.
Researchers at NIST found that adjusting camera settings, using traditional cameras, and graphical overlays can significantly improve facial image quality. These steps can be easily implemented with existing facial recognition technology.
A new, economical method allows LED manufacturers to obtain accurate measurements of LED brightness and color, enabling reproducible and comparable results. The method takes into account the temperature of the semiconductor chip inside the LED.
Researchers found that people can cultivate effective online communication strategies by using emoticons, subject lines, and signatures to convey tone and context. Common devices used include capital letters, quotations, emoticons, and punctuation to indicate sarcasm or enthusiasm.
Researchers discovered glycolaldehyde, a basic sugar molecule, towards a star-forming region where habitable planets may exist. The detection suggests that the production of this key ingredient for life could be common throughout the galaxy.
Researchers have demonstrated the existence of antiferromagnetic coupling in a specially built semiconductor device, which could enable magnetic data storage and processing. This discovery raises hopes for even smaller and faster gadgets that could utilize this property.
Research by the M.I.N.D. Institute shows that mutations of the fragile X gene cause a range of diseases, including neurodevelopmental delays, autism, infertility, and neurodegenerative disease in older adults. The institute urges testing for all patients who show signs of diseases linked to FMR1 mutations.
Researchers found that single mothers provide 83-90% of child-rearing time as married counterparts, but with quality time compromised due to limited resources. The study suggests public policy should focus on resources and educational opportunities for mothers, regardless of marital status.
A statewide survey of snail and slug invasions in Hawai'i has found 29 alien species, including five previously unreported, with most introduced to Oahu before spreading to other islands. The study highlights the need for greater awareness among nurseries and quarantine officials to prevent further environmental impacts.
Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center have identified a brain circuit that suppresses appetite and induces weight loss. The study found that blocking serotonin receptors in specific neurons can normalize abnormal metabolism and prevent obesity-related disorders.