Researchers create Liquid-Gradient Refractive Index (L-GRIN) lenses using water and calcium chloride, enabling precise control over light direction. These fluidic lenses can be fabricated on chips and have potential applications in optical tweezers and medical imaging.
A study by Marianne Hirsch and Leo Spitzer explores the evolution of Holocaust Studies and Memory Studies, arguing that even a witness' silence can tell a powerful story. The authors examine how oral and video testimonies have redefined listening and the role of witnesses in shaping collective memory.
A randomized trial found acupuncture to be as effective in treating chronic low back pain as usual care, with simulated and standard acupuncture showing similar benefits. The study suggests that the mind-body connection and physiological effects may play a role in the therapeutic effect of acupuncture.
A recent study found that nearly one-third of cancer research published in high-impact journals disclosed a conflict of interest, with industry funding being the most frequent type. This suggests that researchers may be biased towards positive findings, and that public funding is necessary to minimize this bias.
A recent study found that women have a more powerful innate immune system than men due to the presence of estrogen. Estrogen blocks an enzyme called Caspase-12, which prevents the inflammatory process, making women more resistant to infection.
A genetic variant in the KIFAP3 gene has been linked to a significant increase in survival time for patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). The variant, found in over 1,800 individuals with ALS and nearly 2,200 unaffected controls, is associated with improved motor function and increased survival by 40-50 percent.
A study by Georgia Institute of Technology researchers suggests that swift recall, restitution, and effective crisis management can minimize harm to a company's bottom line and reputation. Companies should engage the public immediately after announcing a recall, take shared responsibility for errors, and provide easy compensation options.
Researchers found that the virus is spreading consistently with early stages of a pandemic, fatal in around 4 in 1,000 cases, and likely to cause secondary cases for every infected person. The epidemic is thought to have started in Mexico on February 15, 2009, with 23,000 people infected and 91 deaths by the end of April.
The American College of Medical Genetics emphasizes the value of residual newborn screening dried blood spots in improving child health. The statement supports the storage and use of these spots to enhance newborn screening programs nationwide, while maintaining privacy and confidentiality.
The NSF and Math Institutes have created 45 postdoctoral fellowships to support the careers of young mathematical scientists. These positions will place highly trained researchers as teachers at community colleges and universities, as well as in business and industry, providing them with opportunities to apply their training.
Researchers argue that providing free drug samples to patients is ineffective in improving access for the indigent, promotes irrational prescribing habits, and raises healthcare costs. The practice also leads to misused samples being distributed to those who cannot afford them, compromising health care quality.
Research suggests that mothers who miss signs of satiety in their infants tend to overfeed them, leading to excess weight gain. The study found that maternal sensitivity to infant signals at 3 and 6 months predicted infant weight gain from 6-12 months.
A new study identifies Cyber Millenials, affluent, health-conscious young adults living on the urban fringe, as those most likely to engage in high-risk drinking. These individuals, despite being tech-savvy and well-educated, exhibit detrimental binge drinking habits.
Researchers found that island ecosystems have eight to nine times the biodiversity of continental ecosystems. The study highlights the importance of protecting these unique habitats to preserve rare and endemic species.
A study of 13,877 people found that just over 11% had been diagnosed with heart disease before displaying symptoms. The majority of diabetic patients were not diagnosed until they became symptomatic, highlighting the need for improved screening and education to reduce heart disease before symptoms occur.
A Commonwealth Fund study finds that seven of 10 working-age women in the US have no health insurance coverage or inadequate coverage, leading to medical bill and debt problems. Women are more likely to experience financial burdens from health care costs, with 52% reporting difficulties accessing needed care.
A new study published in American Journal of Hematology finds that iron chelation therapy is not a reliable predictor of patient survival. Instead, degree of anemia and need for red blood cell transfusion at diagnosis are stronger predictors.
A Swedish study found that women who followed the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) diet had a lower risk of heart failure. The study analyzed data from 36,019 women and found that those with higher DASH scores had half the rate of heart failure compared to those with lower scores.
Climate change, fishing, and commercial shipping are major threats to the ocean off the US West Coast, with every spot affected by 10-15 human activities annually. A new study provides critical information for evaluating where certain activities can continue with little effect on the oceans.
Lyncean Technologies will develop the Clinical High Resolution Imaging System (CHRIS) using the Compact Light Source's unique x-ray beam. The system aims to detect fine structures in soft tissue for cancer detection and other clinical applications.
Research found that lower levels of alpha-beta peptide 1-42, tau, and phosphorylated tau 181 in cerebrospinal fluid are associated with a faster rate of cognitive decline among individuals with mild dementia. The study suggests that these biomarkers may be useful as entry criteria for clinical trials of disease-modifying therapies.
A £1.1m grant will lead the development of a Field Applicable Screening Tool (FAST) kit to detect insecticide resistance in mosquitoes, crucial for effective malaria control in sub-Saharan Africa. The project aims to identify genes that render mosquitoes resistant to key insecticides.
Researchers at the University of Copenhagen discovered that North Sea oil-bearing layers resemble a sponge, with tiny pores and gaps where oil 'hides' and can only be pressed out by injecting water. The chalk particles should repel oil, but the surface coating on the pores allows it to stick.
A new study from Henry Ford Hospital found that radical prostatectomy significantly increases long-term survival for men under 50 with prostate cancer. The procedure improved cancer-specific and overall survival rates compared to radiotherapy or watchful waiting, making it the recommended treatment option for younger patients.
A six-month study found that Power Plate exercise aided in significant weight loss (11% body weight) and reduced visceral fat compared to diet and conventional fitness alone. Regular Power Plate exercise also outperformed dieting with low-impact results.
Researchers found nearly one in 12 people reported increased alcohol consumption, with similar rates for drugs and cigarettes. The study suggests a potential behavioral health effect of man-made disasters like terrorism on substance misuse.
Researchers Adams and Pierce tested a controversial hypothesis that solar activity causes global warming by reducing cloudiness. They found changes in atmospheric ions and particle formation resulting from variations in the sun and cosmic rays were too small to affect climate, laying the hypothesis to rest.
The conference highlighted the critical role of shipping in the global economy, with Rear Admiral Richard Gurnon emphasizing that paying ransoms to pirates is doomed to fail. The event also explored innovative technologies to protect cargo ships and discuss how maritime security affects U.S. economic security.
A study found that exposure to small branded promotional items influenced medical students' unconscious attitudes toward marketed products. Students at schools with stricter marketing policies showed less favorable attitudes, while those at more lenient schools responded more favorably. The study suggests institutional policies can imp...
A randomized clinical trial found that real and simulated acupuncture were more effective than usual care in reducing chronic low back pain. Participants who received acupuncture experienced a clinically meaningful improvement in their level of functioning, compared to those receiving usual care.
Researchers at the University of Queensland discovered that a traditional kava extract is an effective treatment option for chronic anxiety and depression. The study found significant reductions in anxiety levels among participants taking kava tablets, with improvements also seen in depression.
Chronic smoking impairs brain blood flow recovery after long-term heavy drinking, according to a new study. Brain perfusion in frontal and parietal cortices improved with abstinence, but smokers showed significantly less recovery, particularly in the frontal lobes.
A study by Oregon State University researchers found a pattern of distrust among physicians and midwives, with doctors believing hospital births are the only safe option. The study also revealed that assisted homebirths do not contribute to lower-than-average health outcomes, but rather successful outcomes for mothers and infants.
Experts warn that the buy-to-let market will survive the recession, but smaller private landlords will struggle to compete. The report suggests that lenders will favor established properties over new builds in city centers, limiting geographical access for investors.
MIT engineers have developed a new tissue scaffold that can stimulate bone and cartilage growth when transplanted into joints. The technology has shown promise in small defects and could offer a more effective, less expensive, and easier alternative to current treatments for sports injuries and arthritis.
Researchers found that zinc-coordinated reaction centers have similar physical and chemical properties to magnesium-containing reaction centers. This discovery enables a deeper understanding of photosynthesis structure, function, and evolution.
A study led by Akiko Hata of Tufts University School of Medicine found that the heart protein FHL2 regulates blood vessel maintenance. FHL2 inhibits the genes necessary for vascular smooth muscle cells to transition between a resting and proliferative state.
Two ancient genes in beetles were found to be co-opted for a new trait, challenging the idea that fundamental genes cannot acquire new functions. The study also suggests that developmental genes are candidates for recruitment and may not be as constraining as previously thought.
A study of 717 Medicare recipients found that older adults incorrectly reported having had a stroke, with lower sensitivity and specificity compared to MRI scans. Factors such as memory impairment, cognitive decline, and hypertension also contributed to false-negative reports.
Researchers have documented the first known migration of blue whales from California to British Columbia and the Gulf of Alaska since commercial whaling ended in 1965. The whales' return suggests a re-establishment of historical migration patterns, possibly driven by changes in ocean conditions.
LXRs play a protective role against Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection by boosting Th1 and Th17 immune responses. Treatment with LXR activators provides substantial protection from infections.
Researchers found that entomopathogenic fungus Beauveria bassiana is virulent against Triatoma infestans, the primary vector of Chagas disease. The fungus successfully killed over 50% of infected bugs in field assays, reducing bug populations and estimated parasite transmission risk.
Researchers have identified a key interaction between smallpox virus and human protein human nuclear factor kappa-B1, which inhibits inflammation pathways. This finding may reveal new strategies for developing treatments for smallpox and understanding the human immune system.
A new study from Saint Louis University found that taking DHEA supplements combined with vitamin D and calcium improves spinal bone density in older women. The treatment resulted in a 2-4% increase in bone density, which is comparable to other current therapies.
Researchers identified LXR proteins as a new target in the fight against tuberculosis, providing substantial protection against infection. Additionally, studies revealed that immune cells can destroy AAV-transduced liver cells through CTL recognition, suggesting a potential therapeutic intervention to improve gene therapy success.
Researchers have found drastic changes in sediment cores from river deltas worldwide, revealing past changes in nitrogen application, flooding, and hurricane events. The study highlights the importance of deltaic sediments as a 'history book' for understanding environmental changes, particularly in relation to climate change.
An international team of anthropologists discovered that more aggressive warriors among the Waorani have lower indices of reproductive success than less warlike men. The research contradicts previous findings on Yanomamo men, who were found to benefit from their aggressive behavior in terms of acquiring wives and children.
The University of Nottingham is receiving £6.9m in funding to develop carbon capture and storage (CCS) technologies that could drastically cut CO2 emissions from fossil-fuel power stations. The project aims to investigate combustion and CO2 capture and transport technologies to help meet UK and global emission reduction targets.
The study clarifies the chemical nature of the ISNT and its relationship to microbial growth. It finds that the test mainly detects bacterial amino sugars, suggesting this form of soil nitrogen is key to its effectiveness in predicting corn yield response.
The European Union has awarded $4 million to support the development of new antibiotics and vaccines against pneumococcal infections. Researchers from 13 international institutions are working together to combat this deadly disease, which claims over 60,000 lives annually in Germany alone.
A longitudinal study of children with severe traumatic brain injuries found that they experienced lasting problems with day-to-day functioning, including behavioral issues and cognitive deficits. A meta-analysis of previous studies also showed that problems persisted over time, especially for those with more severe injuries.
A large study led by Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center demonstrates that following the DASH diet significantly reduces women's risk of developing heart failure. The diet, high in plant foods and low in sugar and saturated fats, also lowers blood pressure.
Researchers found that increased O-GlcNAc levels damage blood vessels by reducing nitric oxide production, increasing blood pressure and vessel contraction. This discovery could lead to new treatments targeting the O-GlcNAc pathway.
A new analysis of 1,534 cancer studies found that 29% had apparent conflicts of interest, with biases often favoring industry funding. Studies with industry ties were more likely to focus on treatment and report survival advantages.
Researchers used magnetization transfer imaging to visualize alterations in cerebral architecture of Tourette's patients and found correlations with symptom severity. They identified changes in the frontal lobe that may be responsible for the syndrome's pathology.
A recent PLOS Medicine study examines the effects of electronic health records (EHRs) on medical education. Two groups of researchers present contrasting views: one arguing that EHRs may erode physician education due to potential risks, while another highlights opportunities for enhanced clinical skills and patient communication.
A pilot project led by RIT scientist aims to verify a model using geographic information systems technology to select optimal resting locations. The study focuses on Neotropical migrants and will inform the conservation of migratory bird species.
A team of biologists at the University of Texas at Austin has created a nearly complete collection of genes for a species of reef-building coral, revealing approximately 11,000 different genes. This genetic database will enable researchers to study natural variations in corals and their responses to stress, facilitating an explosion in...
A new study by New Zealand researchers found that regular face-to-face interaction with a supportive health professional is crucial for maintaining weight loss. Nurse-led programs with weekly or bi-weekly weigh-ins showed similar success rates to more expensive intensive programs.
The American Academy of Family Physicians highlights the US healthcare system's fragmentation as a major cause of the current crisis. Dr. Kurt Stange's seven-part series proposes solutions by focusing on primary care and integrative services to promote healing and efficiency.
Researchers found that a high-calorie exercise program involving daily long-distance walking resulted in greater fat mass loss and improved insulin sensitivity compared to standard cardiac rehabilitation. After five months, the high-calorie group showed significant improvements in heart risk factors and weight reduction.
Taking folic acid supplements for at least a year before conception reduces the risk of premature birth by 70% and 50%, according to a large cohort study. The findings suggest that folic acid supplementation may be an effective prevention method for premature birth.
Co-transplanting bone marrow stem cells with embryonic stem cells eliminates tumor formation in spinal cord injury (SCI) laboratory animals. The study suggests that BMSCs induce differentiation of undifferentiated ES cells into a neuronal lineage, resulting in suppression of tumor growth.
A new study suggests that frequent bursts of physical activity throughout the day can be just as beneficial to children's health as longer exercise sessions. The research found that short, moderate-intensity activities accumulated over a shorter period were associated with better health outcomes.
A new study published in the American Cancer Society found that people living in urban areas are more likely to develop late-stage cancer than those in suburban and rural areas. The research suggests a need for more effective urban-based cancer screening and awareness programs, particularly for vulnerable populations.
Researchers at UNC identified the p18 gene as a potential cause of luminal-type breast cancers, which account for 70-80% of all cases. The study found that defects in this gene lead to uncontrolled cell growth and cancer.
Two reports in Archives of Ophthalmology found that consuming omega-3 fatty acids from fish, nuts, and olive oil was associated with a lower risk of age-related macular degeneration. Eating one serving of fish per week reduced the risk by 31%, while consuming one to two servings of nuts lowered it by 35%.
The International Diabetes Federation is urging governments to focus on preventing and treating non-communicable diseases, including diabetes. Professor Silink emphasizes the need for action to address the growing economic burden of NCDs on healthcare systems and society.
Research shows a high correlation between low vitamin D levels and metabolic syndrome in older adults, who are more likely to have a vitamin D deficiency. Vitamin D deficiency is linked to an increased risk of having metabolic syndrome and related metabolic diseases.
Researchers developed a new method for transcriptome analysis using next-generation sequencing technology, enabling the discovery of protein-coding genes and genetic markers in corals. The study identified approximately 11,000 genes, over 30,000 markers of genetic variation, and novel candidate genes for stress-related processes.
A University of Oregon professor has developed a Green Classroom Toolbox to improve energy efficiency in existing US schools. The toolbox provides evidence-based renovation guidelines that consider both human performance and environmental impacts, aiming to enhance student learning.
A new approach based on mathematical theory of elliptic curves has emerged as a leading candidate for more efficient cryptography. Elliptic curve cryptography provides the same level of security as 1024-bit keys for RSA with smaller key sizes, making it computationally more efficient.
The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston's UT nanomedicine project will be tested in space as part of a nationwide competition. The experiment aims to study the diffusion of micro nanoparticles through tiny microchannels, which could aid in developing implantable devices for controlled drug release.
A new study finds that brain regions associated with complex problem-solving are highly active during daydreaming, challenging the long-held notion that these areas are dormant. This suggests that daydreaming may be an important cognitive state for unconsciously tackling important problems in life.
Out-patient clinics and offices can transmit antibiotic-resistant bacteria like MRSA, C.difficile, and vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus. Implementing infection control strategies such as hygiene, education, and careful prescribing of antibiotics can minimize transmission.
A group of students at North Carolina State University has developed a 'lunar texshield' to protect astronauts from space radiation while generating and storing power. The lightweight polymer material deflects or absorbs radiation, backed by layers of solar cells and radiation-absorbing materials.
A new study published in Archives of Internal Medicine finds that women with chest pain but no coronary artery disease are at an elevated risk for cardiovascular events such as heart attack or stroke. The study suggests that these patients require a different treatment regimen and highlights the need to reevaluate their risk assessment.
A study published in Environmental Microbiology reveals that cigarette smoke changes the DNA and membrane proteins of Porphyromonas gingivalis, a key bacterial cause of periodontitis. This adaptation affects the immune system's recognition of the pathogen, making smokers more susceptible to oral disease.
A study found an association between low cognitive function and early-age related macular degeneration in older adults. The research suggests that the two conditions share similar complex pathogenesis and risk factors, including hypertension and vascular changes.
The Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission satellite captured rainfall totals of over 900 mm in southern Luzon due to Tropical Storm Kujira and around 150 mm in northern Luzon from Typhoon Chan-hom. The TRMM-based Multi-satellite Precipitation Analysis system provides near-real-time data for monitoring global Tropics.
Boys with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy symptoms show signs for over a year before diagnosis and disease-specific treatment, highlighting the need for early detection and intervention. A simple and inexpensive blood test could accelerate this process, enabling timely treatment and improving outcomes.
A study conducted by researchers at Riley Hospital and Indiana University found that two-thirds of booster car seats were misused, putting children at risk. The misuse included errors in belt placement, leading parents to prioritize proper use and supervision.
The US Department of Energy has announced a $777 million initiative to fund 46 Energy Frontier Research Centers, including one at Caltech led by Harry Atwater. The center will focus on understanding light-material interactions for optimal solar energy conversion.
Researchers found that both swine flu subtypes cause respiratory symptoms and lung lesions in weanling pigs. H1N1-infected pigs developed more severe disease, with approximately a third of the lung affected.