Researchers found that chronic exposure to low doses of BPA impairs the growth and function of adult reproductive cells in mice. This can lead to fertility issues due to impaired ovulation and reduced production of essential sex hormones.
Astronomers have discovered two giant supernovae 11 billion years ago, providing unprecedented insights into the early universe. The discovery was made using a new technique that allows for the detection of distant dying stars.
A 2,000-year-old bronze statue of an athlete has provided insights into preventing metal corrosion, safely storing nuclear waste, and understanding biomineralization. The study, published in ACS' Crystal Growth & Design, analyzed the mineral layers and fossilized organisms on the statue.
Researchers at Emory Transplant Center developed a combination therapy that replaces calcineurin inhibitors with costimulation blockers and alefacept, reducing rejection rates in monkey transplants. The new regimen allows for less-toxic post-transplant treatment, potentially administered once a week.
A study found that maximal voluntary force produced by a finger is independent of movement speed, contradicting long-held theories. This paradoxical result has implications for human rehabilitation and robot hand design, suggesting that neuromuscular systems can be pushed to their limits even in seemingly simple tasks.
Boston College has been awarded $11.5M to conduct the Trends in International Mathematics and Science Study (TIMSS) 2011, a global assessment of fourth and eighth-grade student math and science achievement. The study's findings will help nations and states compare their children's math and science achievement with others.
Most cognitive tests are ineffective in distinguishing between Alzheimer's and vascular dementia, with only two tests - Emotional Recognition Task and Delayed Story Recall - showing promise. Researchers emphasize the need for a comprehensive approach to diagnosis, combining multiple measures for accurate identification.
Researchers aim to create a brain map that can help diagnose early-stage schizophrenia and guide more effective treatment. The study, led by Northwestern University, uses topographical brain maps to compare the structures of individuals with schizophrenia to those without, hoping to identify key differences in brain function.
Variations in the T1R3 gene correspond to individual differences in sensitivity to and perceived intensity of umami taste. The study found that certain people are highly insensitive to umami, making it difficult for them to detect low levels of this taste quality.
A gene called Chd1 has been found to be critical in maintaining the pluripotent state of embryonic stem cells. This discovery could lead to a greater understanding of how cells acquire specialized states and provide a strategy for efficiently reprogramming mature cells back into the pluripotent state.
The study reveals that effective teachers focus on building self-esteem, engendering trust, and maintaining respect. They combine good knowledge of their subject and teaching practice to provide tailored support.
A team of scientists used PALM microscopy to show that bacterial membrane proteins can spontaneously form clusters without being actively distributed. The researchers found that random lateral protein diffusion and protein-protein interactions generate complex, ordered patterns in the chemotaxis network.
Researchers at Ohio State University have developed a new synthesis method to create highly pure and small nickel oxide nanoparticles for gas sensors. The material reacts quickly and reliably to various toxic industrial chemicals and biological warfare agents, enabling the detection of these substances.
Researchers have identified a potential therapeutic target for basal breast cancer, an aggressive form of the disease. The Met gene was found to play a critical role in its development, making it a promising drug target for patients with few treatment options.
A new study found that African-American patients with breast, ovarian, and prostate cancer tend to die earlier than patients of other races, even when controlling for medical treatment and socioeconomic factors. The analysis of over 20,000 patient records suggests a potential role for genetic factors in the survival gap.
Scientists in Japan have created a universal QProbe system, a new PCR method that amplifies DNA traces more efficiently and accurately. This breakthrough technology has the potential to expand use of PCR in medicine, law enforcement, and other fields, making it faster, less expensive, and more specific.
Emory researchers are using DNA sequencing technology to study the genomics of agricultural ant societies, which could lead to breakthroughs in waste processing and agriculture. The project aims to understand how ants have evolved to process huge amounts of organic material over millions of years.
Researchers develop modified recurrent Hopfield neural network to quickly process images, reducing distortion, noise and blurring. The approach shows significant improvement in image quality by 39-67% and takes half the time of other methods.
Research studies by Saint Louis University suggest that inflammation may trigger Alzheimer's disease. Indomethacin, an anti-inflammatory medication, could hold promise as a treatment by protecting the LRP pump that regulates amyloid beta protein accumulation in the brain.
The Tel Aviv University team has created a statistical tool that can macro- and micromanage pandemic influenza outbreaks, providing guidance for complex decisions on airport closures, school shutdowns, and travel routes. The model takes into account the new H1N1 swine flu's impact on vulnerable populations.
A DuPont-Lehigh University team has developed a DNA-based method to sort and separate specific types of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) from a mixture. The new method utilizes tailored DNA sequences that can recognize individual types of CNTs and purify them with sufficient yield for fundamental studies and application development.
A team of astronomers has developed a new technique to discover supernovae at greater distances than previously known. This discovery allows for the examination of galaxies that form following supernova explosions, providing valuable information about their evolution.
Researchers at Arizona State University suggest early greening of the planet by primitive ground huggers led to complex life on Earth. This event, around 700 million years ago, allowed for soil sequestration of carbon and increase in oxygen levels, paving the way for higher life forms.
Dr. Herman Scholthof, a renowned plant pathology expert, has been awarded the 2009 American Phytopathological Society Fellowship for his distinguished contributions to the field. He is recognized for his notable work in plant pathology and microbiology at Texas A&M University.
Researchers identified gaps in medication and opioid dependence documentation among MMT patients, leading to potential medication interactions and adverse events. Incomplete documentation occurs in up to 30% of cases, highlighting opportunities for improved communication and care coordination to enhance patient safety.
Frank Fisher, an Assistant Professor at Stevens Institute of Technology, received the 2009 Ferdinand P. Beer and E. Russell Johnston Jr. Outstanding New Educator Award for his commitment to mechanics education. The award recognizes his efforts in developing graduate programs and providing exceptional teaching experiences.
A new medical treatment using bevacizumab has successfully improved hearing and alleviated symptoms in patients with neurofibromatosis type 2 (NF2). The study shrank characteristic tumors, including vestibular schwannomas on the balance and hearing nerves.
Researchers found significant differences in salivary bacteria populations between overweight women and non-overweight women, with a single species Selenomanas noxia linked to over 98% of cases. The study suggests oral bacteria may be related to obesity pathology.
Dr. Scholten recognized for pioneering work on GIS and spatial analysis, with over 100 articles and nine books published. He received the award at the ESRI User Conference in San Diego, CA.
A study published in The Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry found no significant differences in cognitive or health assessments between children born after stillbirth and those born to non-bereaved mothers. However, mothers who experienced a previous stillbirth reported more child difficulties, particularly peer problems.
The use of weed killers in farmers' fields significantly increases the amount of key nutrients termed carotenoids in sweet corn kernels. Herbicide applications boosted levels by up to 15 percent, particularly lutein and zeaxanthin, linked to reduced risk of age-related macular degeneration and other diseases.
A new study conducted by an Irish-led research team found no link between folic acid-related auto-antibodies and the risk of having a child with spina bifida. The study, which involved over 140 mothers of affected children, confirms previous findings that maternal folate status can prevent neural tube defects.
Researchers at Newcastle University have successfully created human sperm from embryonic stem cells, allowing them to study the causes of infertility and potentially develop new treatments. The technique uses germline stem cells developed from male embryos, which are then prompted to mature into fully functional sperm.
Jessica Ridpath's PRISM Toolkit helps researchers communicate clearly in written materials, improving informed decision-making and reducing risks. The toolkit has been downloaded 2,000 times and has led to revisions of patient letters, brochures, and consent forms across healthcare institutions.
A recent study by Loyola Medicine found that unfavorable work conditions contribute to low job satisfaction among primary care physicians. Adverse workflow environments are linked to burnout, stress, and a desire to leave the profession.
A unique case study found that first and second languages are represented in different places in the bilingual brain. Damage to one language was more severe than the other, with Hebrew skills impaired more significantly.
Researchers studied microglial cells in mouse retina to understand their response to neurodegenerative processes. Their work may aid in the development of therapeutic strategies for Parkinson's and Alzheimer's diseases.
A study published in the Journal of Dental Research found that salivary bacterial populations were significantly different in overweight women compared to healthy individuals. The presence of certain bacterial species, such as Selenomonas noxia, was linked to an increased risk of obesity.
Research found that mothers of children with autism had higher levels of parenting-related stress and psychological distress, while daily living skills were not associated with increased stress. The study suggests that addressing problem behaviors in autism is crucial for family well-being and early intervention.
The Journal of Injury, Function and Rehabilitation has been accepted for coverage by MEDLINE, six months after its launch. This recognition acknowledges the journal's commitment to raising the scientific bar in the field of physical medicine and rehabilitation.
A new Army study has improved the ability to predict drinking water needs for troops, potentially cutting costs of operations and improving civilian water planning. The study produced formulations that are 58-65% more accurate than the existing Shapiro equation in laboratory settings.
The book provides a grand tour of mathematics in 10 essential lessons, introducing key concepts such as symbolic logic, infinity, and calculus, with the goal of instilling an appreciation for mathematics as both an art and a science. Professor King's approach aims to make real mathematics enjoyable and palatable for non-technical readers.
A study published in Public Health Nutrition found that pregnant women who consumed at least seven servings of fruits and vegetables per day had a moderate reduction in the risk of developing an upper respiratory tract infection. Higher intake was associated with a stronger risk reduction.
A new review article highlights the potential of nanomaterials for environmental remediation, with 45 sites globally identified for use in soil and groundwater cleanup. However, more research is needed to fully understand the technology's benefits and potential risks, particularly on a full-scale ecosystem-wide impact.
Dental CAD/CAM technology enables dentists to create porcelain restorations efficiently, eliminating multiple visits. This technology minimizes stress and strain on patients, saving them precious time and money.
Researchers found genetic variations on chromosome 6 associated with higher risk of schizophrenia. This discovery may lead to new treatments for autoimmune disorders and improve existing treatments.
Researchers found that women with higher language scores had a lower risk of developing Alzheimer's disease, despite having hallmark signs of the disease. The study suggested that mental abilities at age 20 may be indicative of a brain better able to cope with diseases later in life.
Dr. David Yap receives prestigious Amethyst Award from Ontario Public Service for his work combating air pollution in Canada and the United States. The award recognizes his contributions to developing air quality management programs, including the Air Quality Index and Smog Alert Programs.
Dr. Brian Shaw will receive the 2009 Alexopoulos Prize for his outstanding contributions to plant pathology research, as recognized by the Mycological Society of America. Shaw has authored 17 research papers in 12 years and is jointly appointed with Texas AgriLife Research.
Researchers at UC San Diego used machine learning to empower their Einstein robot to learn realistic facial expressions, improving the process of teaching robots to make lifelike faces. The team discovered that the model learned to automatically compensate for missing servos and can now make facial expressions it had never encountered.
New research from Oregon State University finds that fuel reduction treatments in Pacific Northwest forests may reduce carbon sequestration and worsen greenhouse warming. The study suggests that these efforts could lead to a net loss of carbon storage, even if biofuels are used to produce energy.
Researchers discovered that a compound found in Easter Island soil, called rapamycin, extended the lifespan of middle-aged mice by 28-38% when added to their diet. The findings have significant implications for understanding the aging process and developing new therapies.