Researchers found black gold bubbles in sunlight reflections on the ocean's surface, revealing a new technique to detect oil seeps. This method could provide timely and cost-effective means to survey oceans for oil spills and monitor human-induced releases.
A team of scientists recommends a two-pronged approach to managing nutrient pollution, which includes reducing both phosphorus and nitrogen inputs along the land-to-ocean continuum.
A new website allows scientists to collaborate on bacterial strain identification through multilocus sequence analysis. The database grows in size and utility as taxonomists add their isolates, enabling electronic taxonomy.
Researchers have identified a way for the brain to compensate for problems with neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine, opening up new treatment options for addiction, depression, Parkinson's disease, and schizophrenia. The discovery was made using fruit flies with a genetic mutation that disrupted monoamine neurotransmitter rel...
A study found that about 64% of US hospitals did not give tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) to Medicare patients between 2005 and 2007. The researchers also discovered that 40% of the US population resides in a county without a hospital that provides tPA treatment.
A recent gamma-ray burst observed by the Fermi Gamma-ray Space Telescope is the most extreme recorded to date, with energies exceeding those of 9,000 ordinary supernovae. The blast's tremendous power and speed make it a significant finding in the field of gamma-ray bursts.
A new study by Queen's University reveals that Canadian long-term care facilities are not meeting recommended standards for infection prevention and control. The findings highlight a lack of essential activities, including surveillance and control measures, resulting in increased morbidity, mortality, and financial expense.
The Parkinson's Disease Foundation has awarded $300,000 in emergency bridge funding to four leading scientists working on novel research projects. The grants will support studies focused on improving gastrointestinal motility and targeting alpha-synuclein protein misfolding, among others.
Researchers discovered protein Bud14 inhibits formin interactions, regulating actin filament length. This discovery advances understanding of cell division and development, with implications for human health conditions such as infertility and deafness.
Researchers found a specific gene mutation that increases the risk of adverse side effects from immunosuppressive drugs used in kidney transplants. The study suggests a genetic approach to personalized screening and drug dosing could reduce toxicity and rejection risk in pediatric patients.
The shift of clinical trials to developing countries raises questions about the scientific value and ethical implications for patients in the US. Researchers found that over half of study sites were outside the US borders, and companies were testing drugs in emerging markets without aligning with local health needs.
A new study by Duke University Medical Center reveals that delayed treatment for heart attacks using drugs alone is as effective as treatment with stents, offering a cheaper and less invasive option. The research found modest benefits in reducing chest pain but no long-term quality of life difference between the two approaches.
A Johns Hopkins engineer is working on coaxing human stem cells to form new blood vessels that could replace damaged tissue in people with heart disease and other illnesses. The researcher, Sharon Gerecht, aims to understand the molecular signals that cause stem cells to differentiate into blood vessels.
New findings show that marine life closest to unexploded bombs from WWII-era vessel USS Killen have high levels of carcinogenic materials. Data gathered since 1999 indicates a significant correlation between the proximity of corals, sea urchins, and other marine species to munitions and elevated cancer rates among local residents.
A recent study published in General Dentistry suggests that childhood chicken pox caused by varicella zoster virus can lead to osteonecrosis of the jaw, a condition characterized by severe bone damage and tooth loss. The virus may also cause vision loss and other oral health problems if activated decades later.
Astronomers have identified a new type of dwarf galaxy, formed out of pristine gas without dark matter. Led by Johns Hopkins University, the discovery was made using the Galaxy Evolution Explorer and suggests that these galaxies may be common throughout the early universe.
A large-scale study and clinical trial suggest that incorporating genetic data into warfarin prescribing can lead to more accurate ideal dosages, particularly for patients at the extremes of the dosage range. This could help minimize dangerous complications and improve treatment effectiveness and safety.
Sandra Faber is being honored for her extraordinary advances in understanding the properties of distant galaxies, dark matter, large-scale structure, and black holes. Her innovative leadership has driven significant discoveries in modern cosmology, including the role of dark matter in galaxy formation.
When reading sentences describing everyday actions, volunteers who read second-person statements (
The new ultrasound technology, SCAN, uses non-invasive imaging to assess bone quality and predict fracture risk. It also assists in healing fractures by stimulating bone regeneration, making it a cost-effective and accessible tool for healthcare providers.
A combination of two antihypertensive drugs lowers the risk of kidney disease in diabetics, even among those with normal blood pressure. The study found a 21% lower rate of kidney disease events in patients receiving the combination therapy.
Patients arriving at hospitals within the golden hour are more likely to receive clot-busting treatment, with a significant reduction in brain damage. Researchers emphasize the importance of quick action and education for patients and physicians to improve stroke care outcomes.
A new study by the University of Colorado at Boulder found that teenagers who express concern about hearing loss risk actually play their music louder than peers, while those with lower concerns listen at safer volumes. The study also shows teens play music louder than young adults and may inaccurately perceive volume levels.
A model predicting warfarin doses based on genetic information and clinical factors shows improved results, particularly for patients at high risk of bleeding or clotting. The study suggests personalized medicine holds promise in optimizing medication treatment.
Researchers have discovered a drug that eases protein fusion, increasing learning capacity in mice with Alzheimer's disease. The treatment could offer new perspectives and alternatives to existing medications.
A new study published in the Journal of Forensic Sciences examines the prevalence of 'Suicide by Cop' (SBC) among North American officer-involved shootings. The study found that SBC occurs at an extremely high rate, with 36% of all shootings categorized as SBC, resulting in a 50% chance of death or injury.
A new study finds that racial disparities in colorectal cancer screening persist, with significant gaps between white patients and those of other ethnicities, including Hispanics. Increasing screening rates among Medicare recipients have not narrowed these gaps.
A Taiwanese study found that older people and those with an Aboriginal background experienced longer diagnosis and treatment delays for tuberculosis. This delay can lead to more extensive disease, complications, and higher mortality rates.
A new study found that coastal erosion in Alaska more than doubled from historical rates, averaging over 14 meters per year. The authors attribute this increase to declining sea ice extent, rising sea temperatures, and storm power, which may signal a shift in ocean-land interactions.
Researchers found that tropical trees in undisturbed forests absorb 4.8 billion tonnes of CO2 emissions annually, including an unknown carbon sink in Africa. This massive carbon sink has significant implications for climate change, with the potential to buffer global warming by substantially reducing atmospheric CO2 levels.
A new letter in JAMA contests an earlier study's associations between bisphenol A and various health issues, citing statistical limitations. The authors conclude that the findings could be due to chance rather than real health concerns.
Researchers at Boston University School of Medicine found that people whose parents have Alzheimer's disease or dementia perform worse on formal memory testing. The study also identified a strong genetic link between ApoE ε4 gene and the transmission of Alzheimer's disease risk between generations.
Scientists at Duke University have created intricate nano-structures by manipulating magnetization of a liquid solution, enabling the formation of complex shapes like Saturn and flowers. The resulting structures can be fixed and used as building blocks for various applications.
A study by University of Cincinnati researchers found that high-fat diets can cause inflammation in fat tissue surrounding blood vessels, potentially leading to cardiovascular disease. The study suggests a direct link between poor dietary habits and inflammation of blood vessels, independent of weight gain or cholesterol levels.
A clinical trial is underway to test if genetics can improve warfarin prescription by optimizing each patient's dose. Using genetic information, doctors may be able to better determine optimal warfarin doses, minimizing the risk of excessive bleeding or clotting in patients at the extremes of the dosing range.
Vanderbilt researchers found that early visual areas retain information previously hidden from brain studies, revealing an echo of the stimulus in these areas. They used a new technique to decode data from fMRI and found that this echo allows for accurate recall of visual patterns, including orientation.
As flights extend and passengers with pre-existing conditions increase, in-flight medical events become more frequent due to reduced oxygen saturation. Studies show an association between long-haul air travel and venous thromboembolism risk, especially for those with recent surgery or immobilized seating.
The American Geosciences Institute has released the second chapter of its 'Status of the Geoscience Workforce' report, focusing on geoscience education at four-year institutions. The report analyzes data on enrollments, degrees, field camps, and funding dynamics for students, faculty, and research in the geosciences.
Nearly all US babies are now screened for 21+ life-threatening disorders, thanks to increased mandates and advocacy efforts. This expansion has significantly improved public health outcomes.
A new study found that collective religious rituals, not religious devotion, are linked to support for suicide attacks. Regular attendance at religious services was associated with increased support for parochial altruism and suicide attacks, but not with regular prayer.
Researchers found clusters of genetic markers linked to early heart attack risk, including nine genes associated with increased MI risk. The study suggests new gene sites affecting coronary heart disease and early heart attack risk, with potential for earlier intervention.
A study found that 14% of young adults (16-50 years old) with stroke symptoms were misdiagnosed in ERs, leading to delayed treatment and potential paralysis and speech problems. Accurate diagnosis is critical to reduce disability and improve outcomes.
Researchers have discovered genetic variants that can help personalize treatment for infant osteosarcoma, leading to improved survival rates and reduced toxicity. The study, which analyzed data from 100 patients, found that specific genetic variants are associated with greater methotrexate toxicity and better therapeutic effects.
The SAW project, led by Professor Anne Osbourn, combines scientific experimentation with art and creative writing to stimulate creativity and scientific curiosity. The initiative results in a positive view of science among young people, with stunning science images and artwork inspired by the projects.
Increased empathy towards minority groups can reduce prejudice and promote positive inter-group relationships when viewed in abstract contexts. However, the effect is negative during actual interactions with minority group members due to increased self-consciousness about being perceived as prejudiced.
Astronomers have discovered star birth within a cloud of primordial gas, known as the Leo Ring, which lacks dark matter and heavy elements. This finding suggests that new galaxies may have formed through a distinct process, potentially providing insight into the early Universe.
A recent study found that individuals with parents diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or dementia may experience low verbal and visual memory performances in middle age. The study suggests that the ApoEe4 gene plays a role in the transmission of Alzheimer's risk between generations.
Researchers discovered how meningitis bacteria use a protein to disguise themselves as human cells, evading the immune system. This finding could lead to improved vaccines against meningitis B, which accounts for most UK cases. The bacterial protein can be modified to generate a stronger immune response.
A study published in General Dentistry has found that the VELscope device can detect oral HPV lesions, allowing for early detection and treatment of oral cancer. Regular dental check-ups and screenings are crucial in preventing and detecting oral cancer.
Death rates for all cancers combined have decreased faster in African American men than white men, primarily due to rapid declines in lung and prostate cancer deaths. However, African Americans continue to be diagnosed at more advanced stages and have lower survival rates compared to whites for most cancer sites.
Scientists developed a gene-based strategy for warfarin dosing using data from over 5,000 patients worldwide. The algorithm predicts ideal doses with high accuracy, reducing the need for trial-and-error approaches.
A new study reveals liver cancer incidence has tripled in the US since 1975, with African-Americans and Hispanics experiencing significant increases. Survival rates have improved significantly, with one-year rates rising from 25% to 47%, thanks to earlier diagnosis and treatment.
Patients with mild to severe kidney dysfunction require lower warfarin doses and closer monitoring due to increased bleeding risk. Warfarin dose is significantly affected by kidney function, even after accounting for genetics.
Researchers developed an imaging technique that can reveal the atomic structure of nanocrystals with a resolution of less than one angstrom. The technique combines images and diffraction patterns taken with the same electron microscope, allowing for accurate determination of atomic structures.
The three-year project aims to develop cost-effective, reel-to-reel printable plastic solar cells that can be printed like money. The technology has enormous potential for the solar industry in Australia and could lead to a world-leading Australian industry in printable electronics.
Researchers at MU College of Veterinary Medicine found that blocking specific proteins, AP-1 and SAF-1, may prevent cartilage breakdown in arthritis patients by inhibiting inflammation. This could lead to new therapeutic targets for treating the disease.
Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD) can be slowed down with a balanced diet high in micronutrients, vitamins and antioxidants. Increasing fruit and vegetable intake could add up to 20% extra time for AMD sufferers before degeneration sets in.
A study by UC Irvine researchers found that individuals with high systolic and low diastolic blood pressures are at a greater risk of heart attack and stroke. The combination of these two blood pressure components is a superior predictor of future adverse cardiovascular events.
Scientists at Duke University Medical Center and Johns Hopkins University have identified two genes with potential as therapeutic targets for malignant glioma, a deadly class of brain tumors. IDH1 mutations were found in over 70% of astrocytomas and olidgodendrogliomas, associated with longer survival times.
Four NASA rockets launched from Alaska's Poker Flat Research Range, releasing glowing vapor trails to study turbulence above 50-80 miles high. The experiment, called Turbopause, aims to measure the region where winds reach their largest values.