Dr. Orly Lahav's BlindAid software tool uses a joystick and 3-D haptic device to provide tactile feedback, allowing the blind to navigate and explore virtual environments. The tool is connected to real-world maps, enabling users to build cognitive maps and take control of their lives.
The Beach Museum of Art at K-State is receiving $20,000 in grants to support its programming for children, including arts-in-education tours and early childhood classes. These grants will enable the museum to provide arts integrated tours for school children and Growing up ARTSmart programs.
The fisheries industry's pursuit of consumer-friendly fish products is impacting fish populations worldwide. Scientists have found that repeated selective harvesting is causing changes in fish morphology, development, and behavior.
The University of Texas at San Antonio has received a $2.7 million grant from the National Science Foundation to study nanomaterials and their biomedical applications. The research will focus on six areas, including rare earth-based nanoparticles, medical applications, and new materials in biology and neuroscience.
Researchers studied historical DNA samples to track the evolution of a species of tropical butterfly infected with the bacterium Wolbachia, which kills males. The study found that the male-to-female ratio in populations fluctuated rapidly due to the interaction between the species and the bacteria over time and geographical space.
The CSIRO has chosen 10 major science projects for its Australian SKA Pathfinder (ASKAP) telescope, which will tackle astrophysical issues and advance the field of astronomy. The projects include a deep survey for star-forming galaxies and a survey for galaxies containing neutral hydrogen gas.
Researchers at Medical College of Wisconsin identify genetic region on chromosome 13 responsible for cardiovascular collapse during anesthesia, similar to Michael Jackson's death. The study uses a rat model to understand the mechanism and potential gene involved, which could lead to preventing deaths and accidents in humans.
A University at Buffalo researcher has found that people who live through traumatic experiences can bounce back and even grow stronger, thanks to certain qualities such as emotional expression, social support, and a positive outlook. These factors are crucial in predicting levels of distress and resilience among trauma survivors.
Researchers apply brain imaging techniques to create efficient and fair solutions to the public-goods provision problem. By analyzing fMRI data, individuals are incentivized to truthfully value public goods, reducing free-riding behavior.
The study emphasizes the importance of including plastic surgeons in disaster-relief efforts, particularly in medical cases involving physical scarring and nerve damage. Plastic surgeons bring expertise in soft tissue trauma, facial trauma, burn management, and other areas that can be made worse by lack of quick attention.
A new study found that personal connections can lead to further investment in failing programs, even to one's own financial detriment. Business leaders and organizations should carefully consider integrating a true outsider to make more decisive decisions.
A study by Harvard University researchers estimates that China's electricity demands projected for 2030 can be met by wind power. The switch from coal to greener energy would reduce carbon emissions, but requires an investment of around $900 billion dollars.
University of Missouri researchers create a new type of blast-resistant glass that is thinner, lighter, and less expensive than current options. The glass features a layer of glass fibers embedded in plastic, increasing its strength and resistance to small-scale explosions.
The Iowa Power Fund supports a three-year project to develop new, low-cost manufacturing systems that could improve wind energy production by up to 35 percent. The laboratory will focus on automation, quality control, and nondestructive inspection of turbine blades.
Dr. Dentcho Genov's research, published in Nature Physics, explores the link between metamaterials and celestial mechanics to investigate phenomena like black holes in a controlled laboratory environment.
A new study published in Current Biology found that a parasite killing male butterflies caused a rapid shift in the sex ratio of a tropical butterfly species, from 2:1 to 10:1. The researchers used museum specimens and modern tools to analyze the changes, providing insight into evolutionary processes.
Researchers found that pandemic H1N1 influenza binds weakly to receptors in the lungs compared to the upper respiratory tract. This may explain why people infected with the pandemic strain experience more severe symptoms. The study suggests monitoring changes in the virus's ability to infect cells to minimize its impact.
A longitudinal study of over 1,000 New Zealanders from birth to age 32 found that people underreport mental illness, and the actual rate of anxiety, depression, and substance dependency may be higher. The study's findings challenge current diagnostic standards and suggest that mental illness may be more common than previously thought.
Researchers found that enlarged fat cells and a higher waist-to-height ratio are key indicators of future diabetes in women. The study, published in the FASEB Journal, provides a simple tool for identifying women at risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
Endothelin receptor antagonists have shown benefits in treating pulmonary hypertension, resistant arterial hypertension, and proteinuric renal disease. These drugs work by blocking the effects of endothelin-1, a potent vasoconstrictor that can contribute to various diseases.
Plant scientists at the University of Montreal have discovered a key mechanism that enables plants to prevent dangerous gene alterations, ensuring their survival. This finding has implications for understanding gene repair mechanisms in humans and preventing devastating diseases.
A new treatment protocol using dexamethasone instead of prednisone and less intensive chemotherapy showed similar event-free survival in non-high risk patients but better results in high-risk patients, reducing the risk of side effects. Overall, the treatment strategy improved survival rates for children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia.
Scientists discovered a way to track stored memories using eye movements, even when individuals are unable or unwilling to report what they remember. The study highlights the role of the hippocampus in memory and awareness, suggesting that conscious memory may depend on interactions between the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex.
A strong association has been found between Trichomonas vaginalis infection and advanced, lethal prostate cancer in men. The study, published on the Journal of the National Cancer Institute website, analyzed blood samples from 673 men with prostate cancer and compared infection status to 673 control subjects.
Analysis of ancient rock isotopes reveals a rise in atmospheric oxygen 580 million years ago triggered the evolution of large complex animals. This discovery confirms oxygenation of oceans as a driving force for animal life.
A 23-year study by Javier Lobón-Cerviá reveals that environmental conditions, including river flow and temperature, significantly impact trout populations. The research shows that optimal conditions for young trout development are characterized by average river flow and suitable temperatures.
A recent study published in The Lancet suggests that children in Africa with sickle cell anaemia are dying unnecessarily from bacterial infections. The researchers recommend vaccination programs for all children in Africa to prevent these deadly infections, which can be prevented by vaccination.
Researchers at Purdue University found that adding ascorbic acid and sugar to green tea can increase the body's ability to absorb polyphenols, a class of antioxidants. The model-backed study suggests that adding lemon juice or vitamin C could also enhance absorption.
A survey found that 75% of surgical patients would consider allowing a competent unsupervised trainee to perform their entire operation if it meant they could have it done more quickly. Most respondents felt trainees needed to operate under supervision to improve skills, but were willing for supervised trainees to do procedures.
Advances in optics and photonics are transforming our daily lives with innovations like optical fibers, lasers, and medical imaging techniques. Researchers are now exploring the potential of plasmonics to develop metamaterial-based invisibility cloaks and super-strength solar cells.
Researchers found that 4 weeks of aerobic cycling exercise reduced hepatic triglyceride concentration and visceral adipose tissue volume in obese individuals, leading to lower risk of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. This study suggests that regular physical activity can benefit liver health without relying on weight loss.
The global financial crisis has severe consequences on children's health, nutrition, and education in East Asia and the Pacific. Investments can be made to safeguard countries' future economic growth and human development.
Scientists found that natalizumab treatment reactsivate dormant JC virus, leading to PML. Measures of the virus in urine increased after 12 months, and blood samples showed presence in 60% of patients at 18 months.
Researchers at UAB found that preventive antibiotic TB therapy for HIV-infected patients is approximately $950 per case, compared to a previously reported range of $900-$1500 for treating new smear-positive TB cases. The integrated care approach also offers economic benefits by reducing productivity losses and preventing the spread of TB.
The winners of the 2009 Science in Society Journalism Awards are Alison Bass, Jason Felch and Maura Dolan, Michael J. Berens and Ken Armstrong, and Pamela Ronald, who received $2,500 cash prizes for their investigative reporting on topics such as pharmaceutical industry manipulation, DNA-based forensic evidence, and genetic engineering.
Researchers used historical climate data to predict that warmer temperatures will cause plants to flower up to 11 days earlier in Scotland by 2080. This change can lead to desynchronisation between plant and animal life, affecting ecosystems across the globe.
A University of East Anglia study reveals that computers are now better at lip-reading than humans, with an 80% recognition rate compared to 32% for human viewers. The research suggests a new video-based training system can improve lip-reading skills with limited training.
Researchers have discovered that highly charged tungsten ions can emit intense light in the extreme ultraviolet spectrum, similar to sodium atoms. This finding provides a promising alternative for diagnosing fusion reactor conditions, such as temperature and density.
Researchers are harnessing genomics to improve wine production techniques, reducing costs and spoilage by monitoring protein biomarkers in grapevine and yeast cells. The project aims to develop a handheld device for growers to monitor proteins in vines or berries, allowing for more precise management practices.
The Benthic Rover, a robotic explorer, is revolutionizing our understanding of life on the deep seafloor. By measuring oxygen consumption and studying sediment communities, scientists can better comprehend how organisms find food in low-nutrient environments.
The research team will investigate the role of structural components in knee ligament sprains, combining micro-mechanical models, molecular models, and biological and mechanical experiments. The study aims to clarify micro-structural changes associated with partial and complete tears.
Researchers simplify fabrication of nano storage, creating a potentially very dense, stable nonvolatile memory for digital devices. The graphite-based approach uses industry-standard lithographic techniques to deposit amorphous graphite onto silicon, facilitating the creation of reliable memory bits.
The Rome meeting aimed to address the challenges of sharing biological research data and materials, highlighting the negative impact of restrictive licensing on genetically engineered mice and embryonic stem cells. The meeting recommended increasing investment in public databases and mouse repositories to facilitate efficient sharing.
Researchers at Columbia University Irving Medical Center found a new type of adult stem cell, CARNs, in the prostate that can give rise to cancer if tumor suppressor genes are inactivated. The discovery resolves controversy over the origin of prostate cancer cells and may help develop better treatments.
Scientists have developed nanoparticles that can target and destroy glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) brain cancer cells using light-sensitive titanium dioxide material. The 'nanobio hybrids' killed up to 80% of brain cancer cells after exposure to focused white light, making them a promising part of brain cancer therapy.
The NIAID is conducting a trial to test the safety and efficacy of a 2009 H1N1 influenza vaccine in pregnant women. The trial aims to provide critical information for public health planning, as pregnant women are at higher risk of developing severe illness from the flu virus.
Researchers have developed a non-invasive treatment combining high-intensity LEDs with green tea extract to reduce facial wrinkles. The study shows promising results, achieving smoother skin in one-tenth of the time it took for LED therapy alone.
A team of experts will dive into the sacred pools of Cara Blanca in central Belize to investigate their cultural significance and environmental history. The expedition aims to determine if these cenotes have similar sacred qualities as other Maya sites.
Scott Shappell, a professor at Clemson University, has been elected Fellow of the American Psychological Association for his significant impact in human error research and fatigue effects on performance. He is known for co-developing groundbreaking tools to identify and prevent accidents in high-risk industries.
Cirrhotic patients with minimal hepatic encephalopathy (MHE) are at a higher risk of motor vehicle accidents, with a 16% rate compared to 4% for those without MHE. A study found that ICT was a superior test in identifying patients at risk of future auto accidents.
A new analytical method developed by researchers at the University of Copenhagen reveals a significant correlation between oxygen content in seawater and global cooling. The study indicates two periods in Earth's history with large increases in oxygen content, which led to temperature decreases and potentially enabled life in deep oceans.
A major clinical study has rejected cancer safety fears surrounding the most commonly prescribed group of drugs for heartburn treatment. The study found no link between long-term use of proton pump inhibitors and the development of Barrett's Oesophagus or oesophageal adenocarcinoma, a potentially fatal cancer.
The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation has selected 16 researchers to receive funding for 10 new projects addressing key health policy issues. The projects aim to improve treatments for ADHD, assess Alzheimer's risk, and consumer understanding of food claims.
Researchers found that applying a natural plant hormone can help eliminate pesticide residues from crops, reducing environmental exposure to pesticides. The study suggests using brassinosteroids as an environmentally friendly alternative to minimize pesticide risks.
Researchers at Michigan Technological University have identified three genes linked to sporadic ALS, a type of neuromuscular disorder. The discovery provides valuable insights into the genetic basis of the disease and may lead to the development of new treatments or a potential cure.
Scientists have decoded the genome of Phytophthora infestans, the cause of late blight, which destroyed potato crops in the 19th century and is now affecting tomatoes. The genome contains a massive amount of repetitive DNA, thought to be key to its adaptability and effectiveness as a plant pathogen.
Health journalists filter information from peers, audiences, and sources like universities and nonprofits to identify news-worthy stories. The study found that health journalists rely on non-public relations resources more frequently than medical journals or PR sources.
A new study found that Canadian health biotech firms collaborating with developing countries have a strong interest in building partnerships, driven by access to emerging markets and cost savings. Joint R&D activities are nearly as common as distribution arrangements, reflecting bi-directional knowledge-intensive collaboration.
The study found that the pathogen's genome is unusually large and has a unique structure, enabling rapid evolution of genes involved in plant infection. The 'two-speed' genomic strategy allows different parts of the genome to evolve at different rates, potentially making it harder for plants to resist infection.
A new study reveals that vitamin C helps promote wound healing and protects skin cells from DNA damage, a finding with great relevance to the cosmetics industry. The research also suggests that vitamin C can help remove DNA damage caused by free radicals, leading to potential advances in skin regeneration and cancer prevention.