Researchers will use optically stimulated luminescence (OSL) dating techniques to determine the past thickness of the Antarctic ice sheet. They aim to understand how ice sheets respond to sea level and climate change by collecting samples from beach deposits along the coast.
Researchers at UC Berkeley discovered that the brain can develop a mental map of a solution to achieve motor tasks with high proficiency, similar to how drivers stick to a given route. The study showed that the brain creates a stable neural pattern that adheres without deviation, enabling control of artificial limbs with intuitive ease.
Researchers at Duke University propose that a thrown spear, like one used by modern humans, was the likely cause of a fatal injury to a Neandertal man between 50,000 and 75,000 years ago. The wound's downward angle and lack of significant kinetic energy suggest a projectile weapon was used.
A new CU-Boulder study warns that climate change could lead to a one-in-two chance of fully depleting the Colorado River's reservoir storage by mid-century. The study found that even with a 20% reduction in stream flow, the risk of full depletion would still be significant.
Researchers have developed a high-throughput protein pipeline that can analyze 40 proteins in weeks, compared to years with current techniques. This technique allows for the deciphering of extremophiles and better understanding of protein functions.
The Eurocancercoms project aims to establish a single, efficient network for cancer communication in Europe by creating a 'one-stop shop' for the whole cancer community. The new website will provide searchable databases for clinical trials and guidelines, as well as promote best ways of disseminating cancer science across Europe.
In sub-Saharan Africa, MSM are a high-risk group for HIV infection, with prevalence rates often 10 times higher than in the general population. The lack of access to vital services, including condoms and education, exacerbates the issue.
Researchers at Monash University discovered that early meteorites' radioactive nuclei could have originated from a nearby giant star. The presence of these nuclei affects the evolution of planetary systems and the origin of Earth's water.
Hebrew SeniorLife is expanding its evidence-based healthy aging programs with a new $105,000 grant from the Tufts Health Plan Foundation. The program will educate over 500 seniors on nutrition, exercise, and falls prevention, aiming to maintain their health and independence.
New research shows that hospital software can improve patient satisfaction by increasing discharge preparedness and quality scores. Hospitalists using the software report improved communication with primary care physicians, resulting in better perceptions of the discharge process.
Recent research published in the Academy of General Dentistry's clinical journal revealed that aloe vera tooth gel is as effective as commercial toothpaste in controlling cavity-causing organisms. The study found that aloe vera tooth gel was more effective than some commercially popular brands, making it a great alternative for people ...
A new research programme, Towards Biosolar Cells, aims to increase photosynthetic efficiency and produce fuels from sunlight. The project will combine natural and technological components to create solar collectors that supply fuel.
GIFTED HANDS: AMERICA'S MOST SIGNIFICANT CONTRIBUTIONS TO SURGERY explores the history of American surgical practice, from pre-Columbian and colonial eras to modern-day scientific surgery. The book highlights key medical breakthroughs, innovative surgeons like Alexis Carrel and Joseph Murray, and their impact on the field.
By manipulating individual atoms in DNA, Professor Zhen Huang hopes to unlock new avenues for research into DNA replication and transcription. His study reveals that interactions between methyl and phosphate groups can reduce energy needed for DNA duplex separation, potentially leading to improved understanding of genetic processes.
Researchers propose a novel two-agent combination therapy that selectively kills tumors while sparing healthy cells. The approach leverages the frequent absence of methylthioadenosine phosphorylase in various lethal cancers, allowing for increased doses and reduced toxic side effects.
A larger cortex is associated with greater intellectual capacity, according to new research. Cortical modules, vertical columns of interconnected neurons, vary in number and diversity across the cerebral cortex.
Seabirds face an 'energetic bottleneck' in winter, struggling to find enough food to survive harsh conditions. The study suggests that the birds' high energy demands may be too much to handle, leading to catastrophic losses during the winter months.
A recent study from UAB and Southern Research Institute reveals that the M2 protein in influenza viruses damages lung epithelial cells, leading to fluid buildup and breathing difficulties. By understanding this mechanism, researchers hope to develop new treatments to prevent or minimize flu damage.
Two NASA satellites captured images of the weakening tropical storm Dolores, which has faded into a remnant low pressure area. The storms' winds and clouds were tracked using QuikScat and CloudSat, revealing intense rainfall and towering cloud formations.
A recent study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found an inverse association between fish consumption and dementia prevalence in older adults across 7 middle- to low-income countries. Higher fish consumption was linked to a lower risk of dementia, contradicting previous findings from industrialized countries.
The study documents the extent of flooding and damage in the Ayeyarwady River delta after Cyclone Nargis, with findings including storm surges up to 5 meters high. Researchers recommend implementing a cyclone education program, developing flood maps, and constructing cyclone-safe buildings to reduce future loss of life.
Montana State University researchers study Sulfolobus turreted icosahedral virus (STIV) and its effects on host cells. The virus forms pyramid-like projections on the surface of infected cells, releasing progeny in a previously unknown manner.
Researchers discovered that neon blue-tailed tree lizards can glide through the air with ease, thanks to their lightweight bodies. The team found that the lizard's low weight allowed it to generate lift and stay airborne for longer periods, similar to gliding geckos.
Researchers have mapped illicit drug use patterns in Oregon using municipal wastewater samples, providing a one-day snapshot of drug excretion. The study found higher levels of cocaine metabolites in urban areas and lower levels in rural areas, with methamphetamine present in all municipalities.
The Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission (TRMM) satellite captured a unique image of both tropical storm Carlos and Dolores on July 15, 2009. The image shows the horizontal pattern of rain intensity within storms, with false-colored areas indicating rainfall between 20-40 millimeters per hour.
Montana State University is launching a pilot program to test the effectiveness of web-based engineering laboratory courses. With an $148,000 NSF grant, students will be able to control real laboratory equipment from home computers, simulating in-person lab experiences.
Research conducted by Yale University researchers found that women with preeclampsia in previous pregnancies are at higher risk of hypertension after pregnancy. Additionally, preterm delivery, preeclampsia, and low-birth weight tend to recur and increase the risk of complications in future pregnancies.
Daily consumption of acidic beverages can lead to demineralization of hard dental tissues, causing tooth structure to wear away. To manage erosion, identify the culprit source, understand its effects on teeth, and stop or reduce consumption. Regular dental check-ups twice a year can help maintain healthy teeth.
Researchers have detected 3,600 acetylation switches in 1,750 proteins, significantly expanding the number of known modifications. This discovery sheds light on how protein regulation is affected by diseases like cancer, Parkinson's, and Alzheimer's.
A new study reveals that the US is home to the fastest-growing wind power market worldwide, with a 60% increase in capacity additions in 2008. The report highlights the growth of wind projects across various states, including Texas, which leads the nation with over 7,000 MW of new wind capacity.
Researchers have found that a mutation in just one copy of the Bub1 gene can lead to aneuploidy in mice, increasing the risk of genetic disorders like Down syndrome and pregnancy loss. The study's findings suggest that age is also a contributing factor, with older female mice having fewer offspring.
A study found that invasive Atlantic Coast crabs and snails have devastated oyster reefs in Tomales Bay, California, destroying half of the native Olympia oyster population. The invasion has disrupted trophic cascades, causing a loss of critical habitat for marine biodiversity.
A new analysis by Duke University engineers found that elite athletes are getting bigger and faster, with the fastest swimmers growing 4.5 inches and the swiftest runners growing 6.4 inches taller since 1900. This trend can be predicted by the constructal theory of design in nature.
A study published by Montana State University researchers found that elk are having fewer calves due to changes in their nutrition, mainly caused by the presence of wolves. Elk are changing their behavior and foraging habits, such as browsing more in forested areas, resulting in a 27% decrease in food intake.
A study by Spanish chemists has detected up to 15 fragrance allergens in baby bathwater, including benzyl salicylate and hydroxycitronellal. The researchers found extremely high concentrations of these substances, exceeding 100ppm, raising concerns about their impact on children's health.
Researchers develop computer model showing how diverse species can arise from arrangement of organisms across an area without physical barriers or natural selection. The study found that genetic distance increases over generations, leading to a rapid increase in species numbers until they reach a steady state.
Researchers using NASA's SIERRA aircraft and satellite data to map and measure ice conditions below cloud cover. They found a 74% decline in older ice types since 1988, with only 2% of the Arctic Ocean now covered by these ice types.
Depressed children with asthma exhibit dysregulation of the autonomic nervous system and increased airway compromise. The study found a link between emotional stress, depressive symptoms, and airway function in childhood asthma.
The study of self-knowledge has expanded beyond determining internal states to include memory and predicting the future. Psychologist Timothy D. Wilson suggests that becoming an excellent observer of oneself and considering multiple perspectives can help individuals gain a better understanding of themselves.
A study investigated QOL of 149 patients with upper third gastric cancer treated with proximal gastrectomy and additional reconstruction. The EA procedure showed the best postoperative QOL, improving recovery of body weight and reducing symptoms like heartburn and belching.
Researchers at Washington University School of Medicine have discovered how a protein molecule named Srs2 removes Rad51 from DNA, preventing unwanted exchanges of DNA sequences. This finding could lead to ways of enhancing chemotherapy drugs that destroy cancer cells by damaging their DNA.
Researchers at La Jolla Institute have discovered the specific gene that triggers antibody production, a key step in mounting an immune response against viruses and pathogens. The finding has significant implications for developing new and more effective vaccines.
A letter to The Lancet criticizes the British National Party's use of a white doctor in their election campaign, which could have influenced voters and damaged relationships with ethnic minority patients. The authors argue that doctors' neutrality should not be used to promote political parties.
A new study in Operations Research journal highlights the difficulty of defeating insurgent groups like the Taliban, citing the crucial role of timely and accurate military intelligence. The model shows that even good intelligence may only contain the insurgency, not defeat it, and that the government's best option is to achieve a cont...
Research on clarithromycin resistance in Helicobacter pylori isolates from Malaysian patients revealed low prevalence rates and specific mutations. The study found transitions of adenine to guanine at positions 2142 and 2143 of the 23S rRNA gene, detectable through restriction fragment length polymorphism analysis.
The Nepean Dyspepsia Index has been successfully translated and validated in Chinese patients with functional dyspepsia. The study found that the Chinese version is a reliable scale for measuring health-related quality of life and disease severity, making it suitable for future clinical research.
A study by the University of Chicago Medical Center found that premature babies born in poverty are significantly less likely to be ready for school, despite advances in neonatal care. The researchers found that socioeconomic status was the most powerful factor determining school-readiness level.
The new science of learning emphasizes computational, social, and brain-based approaches to understanding human learning. Key findings include the importance of machine learning, social interaction, and empathy in learning, which are now being applied to develop personalized teaching tools.
Researchers identified a gene that allows immune cells to start self-destructive processes underlying autoimmune diseases. The study found that the presence of the Batf gene enables T cells to produce inflammatory Th17 cells, which can lead to autoimmune conditions.
Researchers at UAB will explore next-generation technology to improve the service life of total joint replacements, potentially reducing recurrent surgical procedures. The partnership with Smith and Nephew Inc. will provide access to state-of-the-art testing equipment and expertise.
BA profiling in IBD patients showed decreased levels of certain BAs, while UC patients with liver and gallbladder diseases exhibited increased primary and secondary BAs. The study also found accelerated detoxification activity in IBD patients and a significant increase in primary and secondary BAs in UC patients with extraintestinal ma...
A study comparing children with FASD and ADHD reveals significant differences in social cognition and emotional processing. Children with FASD show a distinct profile of weaker social skills, including high distractibility and restlessness, which may underlie the severe conduct problems observed in these individuals.
Expectant mothers who are obese are nearly 10 times more likely to suffer from chest infections and more than twice as likely to experience headaches and heartburn compared to women of a healthy weight. Obese pregnant women also face increased risks of carpal tunnel syndrome, symphysis-pubis dysfunction, and higher treatment costs.
Overweight youth are twice as likely to have overweight friends, according to a USC study that found strong social connections contribute to obesity. Researchers also discovered that overweight girls tend to name more friends but be less popular among their peers.
Researchers developed an ideal strategy for developing HCV-specific gene therapy by identifying the OAS promoter as a potential target. The study demonstrated that the HCV-core protein activates the OAS promoter specifically and effectively, paving the way for potential targeting of HCV using this approach.
Researchers at Yale University detail the molecular mechanisms governing selenium metabolism in the human body. The study reveals a highly specialized tRNA molecule responsible for selenocysteine production, which is crucial for recycling protective antioxidants.
New research by NCAR shows a key link between the solar cycle and global climate, with maximum solar activity impacting Earth similarly to La Nina and El Nino events. The study may pave the way toward better predictions of temperature and precipitation patterns.
Using earthworms and animal manure, researchers have successfully converted textile mill sludge into a nutrient-rich compost. The composting process changes the physical and chemical properties of the material, making it suitable for plant growth.
Researchers at Oregon State University have developed an edible coating that triples omega-3 fatty acids in fish, reducing lipid oxidation and preventing microorganism growth. The coating, enriched with fish oil, also maintains moisture levels and prevents color change.
A randomized trial in Uganda found that circumcision of HIV-infected men did not reduce HIV transmission to female partners. The study enrolled 922 uncircumcised men and their female partners, with a higher proportion of women infected in the intervention group.