A $5 million, 5-year program funded by NSF aims to double the number of minority undergraduate degrees in STEM disciplines. Academic support programs, including tutoring and peer-led team learning, will be provided to help students overcome barriers to success.
A recent study published in Environmental Science & Technology found that bioethanol production requires up to 861 billion gallons of water, with some regions consuming as much as 2,100 gallons per gallon of ethanol produced. This highlights the need for regional-specific considerations when implementing biofuel mandates.
The article 'Tripping Points: Barriers and Bargaining Chips on the Road to Copenhagen' reveals key issues hindering climate agreement, including finance and technology transfer. Researchers predict a poker-like game of negotiations, with countries delaying decisions until the last hours of the conference.
A study by McMaster University found that women tend to choose foods with lower calories when dining with a man compared to another woman, while dining with more men leads to even lower calorie choices. The research suggests that social grouping and perceived attractiveness play a role in food selection.
Researchers have generated the first partial genomic sequence of waterhemp, a Midwestern weed resistant to herbicides. The data will help identify resistance mechanisms and inform strategies to combat it.
At Station ALOHA, ocean acidification rates have been documented over two decades, with surface acidity growing more acidic at the expected rate from chemical equilibration. However, year-to-year changes vary on seasonal and inter-annual timescales, driven by climate-induced changes in ocean mixing.
A three-protein DNA repair complex called MRN is crucial for a normal gene-shuffling process to proceed properly. The study found that Mre11 plays a critical role in preventing cancer by repairing double strand breaks in B cells.
A new study investigates the effects of the Khmer Rouge trials on Cambodians, finding that while most believe justice will be served, nearly 90% experience painful memories. The trials' impact on mental health remains uncertain, with higher rates of PTSD among those who remember torture and murder.
Researchers found that a gut hormone called cholecystokinin (CCK) activates receptors to regulate glucose levels via a gut-brain-liver neuronal axis. CCK's effects depend on activation of CCK-A receptors, which slow down glucose production in the liver.
Scientists have created detailed 3D computer models of ancient spider fossils, revealing physical traits that helped them hunt for prey and evade predators. The models show that one species was an ambush predator with spiked defensive features, while another had grasping claws to manipulate its prey.
Researchers found that insects can transfer nanoparticles to each other, raising concerns about environmental impact. Exposure to certain nanoparticles caused locomotor impairment and mortality in adult fruit flies.
Dr. Michael E. O'Brien has been recognized for his outstanding contributions to dental education, receiving the Daniel M. Laskin Award for Outstanding Predoctoral Educator in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery. He is a respected educator, mentor, and clinician with over 25 years of experience at LSUHSC.
New DNA and RNA aptamers have shown promise as treatments for various diseases, including macular degeneration and cancer. Their ease of production, stability, and chemical modifications enhance their drug-like properties.
New commentary published in JNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute discusses treatment options for metastatic breast cancer. The European School of Oncology Metastatic Breast Cancer Task Force recommends sequential chemotherapy with a single agent for patients without rapid progression or life-threatening metastasis.
Researchers discovered that positive expectations significantly impact recovery time for whiplash injuries. Those with optimistic outlooks recovered 3 times faster than those with negative expectations. The severity of the injury had no effect on recovery times.
Clemson University chemical engineering professor Mark C. Thies has partnered with Doros Theodorou of the National Technical University of Athens to develop molecular models for advanced-carbon materials. Their goal is to create strong, lightweight materials for transportation vehicles, wind turbines, and energy-efficient aircraft.
Researchers at Burnham Institute for Medical Research discovered that the REDD1 protein is degraded under hypoxic conditions, enabling cells to rapidly restore mTOR signaling. This regulation mechanism plays a crucial role in cellular stress response and may be linked to tumor growth in cancer.
Researchers found that intermittent calorie restriction provided greater protection from mammary tumor development, even with a lower degree of calorie restriction. The study suggests that altering hormone levels, such as insulin and IGF-1, may play a key role in cancer prevention.
A study led by Abhinav Chandra found that emergency physicians' estimates of risk for chest pain patients correlate with actual outcomes. The researchers suggest trusting the physician's gut instinct and counseling against discharge when strongly advised, even without compelling data.
Researchers found that cooling therapy, also known as therapeutic hypothermia, improves survival rates and reduces disability after cardiac arrest. The treatment's cost-effectiveness was compared to other widely accepted healthcare interventions, including kidney dialysis and public access defibrillation.
A study found that elderly individuals with reported self-neglect or abuse have a significantly increased risk of death, particularly within the first year. Confirmed elder abuse was also associated with a higher risk of overall mortality.
A recent study analyzing childrearing advice in popular US magazine Parents found a historical trade-off between children's autonomy in private spaces at home and public spaces outside the home. While children have gained more autonomy in self-expression, they have lost substantial freedom of movement and delayed responsibilities.
Perennial crops offer a solution to unsustainable agricultural systems by producing more, requiring less input, and maintaining soil health. Increasing landscape diversity can also boost populations of pests' natural enemies, reducing the need for pesticides.
A study published in Cortex found that Parkinson's patients struggle with grammatically complex sentences due to degeneration of dopamine-secreting neurons. Eye-tracking data revealed slower response times when processing relative clauses, but not at the end of sentences.
Researchers uncover how certain types of viral RNA pairs trigger an enzyme called protein kinase R (PKR) to inhibit viral production. PKR recognizes double-stranded RNAs and stops protein synthesis in infected cells, ultimately causing cell death.
Researchers found that individuals with intense dust cloud exposure were more likely to develop new asthma diagnoses and symptoms indicative of probable PTSD. Asthma risk was highest among those who worked on the pile on September 11, while PTSD symptoms increased across all groups, with rescue/recovery workers experiencing the greates...
The Department of Energy's Pacific Northwest National Laboratory has received over $5 million to advance climate research and analyze smart power grids. The new initiatives will provide vital funding and tools for researchers, integrating climate and power grid analyses to inform science-informed decisions.
A newly discovered compound from a soft coral may hold the key to developing effective treatments for neuropathic pain. The research suggests that inflammation in the nervous system is a major factor in this condition, and the compound has been shown to reduce pain-related activities in isolated microglia and experimental rats.
Three cases of patients with liver injury and renal failure have been reported due to steroid-enriched dietary supplements. Researchers warn that even low doses of anabolic steroids can cause severe health consequences.
The Gravity and Extreme Magnetism Small Explorer (GEMS) mission, led by NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center, will measure cosmic X-ray polarization. It aims to detect dozens of sources and provide insights into extreme environments, such as black holes and supernova remnants.
Scientists are presenting research on coupled biogeochemical cycles, which study the interactions between Earth's biology, chemistry, and geology. The study highlights the importance of understanding these interconnected processes in addressing human impacts such as global warming and acid rain.
Studies reveal a significant positive association between depressive symptoms, CRP levels, and pain in RA patients. Higher levels of spouse depression predict worse disease course for individuals with RA.
A €1 million grant from the European Commission will support LSTM in developing a national HIV strategy and programme of support for Libya. The project aims to address Libya's priority issues for HIV prevention and care by analyzing data and drawing evidence-based conclusions.
A study of over 2,000 identical twins found that early-life medical problems are associated with an individual's risk for developing learning disabilities, rather than anesthesia exposure. The research suggests that screening for learning problems should take place before surgery.
Genetic analysis reveals African village dogs have directly descended from indigenous dogs, with higher genetic diversity than modern breeds. This challenges the claim that dogs were first domesticated in East Asia.
A Tel Aviv University study found that employees' faith in their tools significantly outperforms on exams by about five points. The study suggests that managers can strengthen workers' belief in the utility of their tools to promote successful performance.
Researchers from Texas are creating complex models to simulate the spread of diseases by studying human behavior. The group aims to design effective public health policies that not only utilize resources but also influence individual decision-making to prevent disease transmission.
A pilot study at Ohio State University found that 20 minutes of guided workplace meditation and yoga, combined with six weekly group sessions, can lower feelings of stress by more than 10 percent and improve sleep quality. The intervention increased mindful attention awareness and reduced perceived stress in participants.
Researchers at King's College London discovered a significant reduction in the integrity of a key brain tract associated with emotions and decision-making in individuals with psychopathy. The findings suggest that biological differences in the brain may underpin psychopathic behavior.
The new UIC Center of Excellence in Eliminating Health Disparities aims to reduce health disparities in Chicago by conducting research, education, policy changes, and community partnerships. Researchers will focus on prostate and colorectal cancer, as well as breast cancer initiatives.
A genetic mutation in a single amino acid causes defective collagen molecules to repel each other, leading to brittle bones and tissue failure. This study uses molecular-based multi-scale analysis to understand the impact of material properties on human disease.
A recent study published in JAMA found that older adults who experience abuse or self-neglect are at a higher risk of premature death from all causes and heart disease. The study highlights the dire health consequences for these vulnerable individuals, emphasizing the need for early identification and reporting of suspected cases.
A study examining the effectiveness of universal intimate partner violence (IPV) screening found that it did not significantly reduce subsequent reports of IPV or improve quality of life. While some small benefits were observed, the authors conclude that screening is not enough to address IPV and recommend specific interventions to pre...
A study published in PLOS ONE found that sensations of touch can be felt and mislocalized towards where a virtual body is seen, altering the mapping of touch sensations in space. This research demonstrates the crucial role of brain mechanisms in multisensory processing for conscious experience.
Researchers have isolated a unique protein that affects both gene expression and protein transport, which may lead to new medicine treatments. The findings could provide insights into various biological processes, including cell movement and neural networking.
A four-decade study of 9,844 participants found that high cholesterol levels in midlife significantly increase the risk of Alzheimer's disease and vascular dementia later in life. Borderline elevated cholesterol levels also raise risk for late-life vascular dementia.
Patients with BMI under 18.5 kg/m2 had higher retransplantation rates due to graft failure, and were more likely to die from hemorrhagic complications or cerebrovascular accidents. Patients with BMI ≥ 40 kg/m2 experienced higher death rates due to infectious complications and cancer.
Researchers discovered epigenetic changes in mice with chronic lymphocytic leukemia that occur before disease symptoms appear. These findings suggest an early methylation test could predict cancer development and delay its onset.
Researchers at UBC found a mutant gene in freshwater sticklebacks that drives their tendency to relocate instead of adapting to new environments. This 'wanderlust gene' is associated with the loss of bony lateral plates and affects salinity tolerance.
Researchers investigate strange river behavior in Arizona, attributing it to ancient tectonic extension. In another paper, scientists study active low-angle normal faults in Mexico, resolving a long-standing controversy on their existence.
A new study found that 73% of consumer paint brands from 12 countries exceeded the US standard of 600 ppm for lead in paint, while 69% had levels over 10,000 ppm. The researchers call for a global ban on lead-based paint to protect over three billion people worldwide.
Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine have discovered a protein called cyclin B1 that is made in excess levels in many cancers. A vaccine targeting this protein may prevent malignancies in high-risk individuals, with promising results in mice vaccinated against it. The study's findings suggest that natural immu...
A new study published in the Journal of Applied Psychology found that employee emotional reactions and intentions are more influenced by actual benefits and opportunities than promised ones. Organizations should focus on delivering valuable rewards rather than investing time in making promises.
Scientists can now drill to the Earth's mantle with reduced environmental impact. The technology allows for investigation of subseafloor areas in great depths, where oceanic crust may be thinner.
A widely publicized analysis found a near tripling in reports of Americans' social isolation between 1985 and 2004. However, sociologist Claude S. Fischer questions the findings, citing anomalies in the data and contrary results from other studies. Researchers defending their work argue that Fischer's proposed artifact is not credible ...
The dioxin poisoning of Victor Yushchenko demonstrates the importance of monitoring TCDD and its metabolites in human tissues. Metabolites were predominantly found in faeces, indicating a slow metabolism by the liver and skin.
A study developed an animal model revealing why imatinib (Gleevec) helps patients with chronic myeloid leukemia survive longer but not prevent disease recurrence. Researchers are now testing combinations of imatinib and other drugs to enhance its power.
Engineering programs retain students equally to other majors, and women are just as likely to stick around as their male counterparts. However, a narrow path exists for students to migrate into engineering from other majors, highlighting the need for institutions to adopt universal prerequisites.
Researchers have developed organic solar cells that can be produced easily and inexpensively as thin films, with the potential to generate electricity from sunlight. By understanding the structure of tiny bubbles and channels inside plastic solar cells, scientists hope to increase efficiency and make them more cost-effective.
Research at Durham University suggests that people with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) struggle to identify emotions from short video clips of body movements without seeing faces or hearing sound. Adults with ASD performed poorly in a test detecting the direction of coherent movement on a screen, attributed to visual processing problems.