The 2009 Greendex survey reports an increase in environmentally friendly consumer behavior in 13 of the 14 surveyed countries. Top-scoring consumers are in developing economies like India, Brazil, and China, while American and Canadian consumers rank last.
SRI International will screen a library of well-characterized drugs against the 2009 H1N1 influenza A virus. The project aims to identify new treatments with better efficacy and potency than current antiviral drugs. SRI's expertise in drug screening and development will help expedite the development of new therapies.
Researchers found that learning from experience changes brain circuitry, enabling quicker categorization and decision-making in uncertain situations. The study suggests that previous experience is retained in brain circuits, influencing flexible decisions and actions.
A new UCLA study reveals that traumatic brain injuries in children can lead to persistent cognitive problems, emphasizing the need for targeted treatment and prevention through helmet use and seatbelt safety. The research also found that younger children are disproportionately affected by severe TBI.
The study found a vestige of the zero-temperature jamming transition in a system of small particles where thermal energy is important. Researchers used mathematical computer simulations and an experiment to investigate how jamming affects systems at non-zero temperature.
A recent study found that chemotherapy in addition to surgery or radiation improves survival rates among older women with early-stage breast cancer. Combination therapy showed significantly better outcomes than single-drug treatment, with a 17% higher relapse-free survival rate at three years.
Researchers found that oil spills from petroleum seeps in the Santa Barbara Channel are mostly deposited on the ocean floor, with most of it being biodegraded. The study provides insights into the life cycle of oil spills and their impact on the environment.
The University of Granada has developed an artificial simulator of the nervous system to analyze functions and test new medicines. The EDLUT simulator allows researchers to study new diseases and improve robots inspired by human bodies.
A new study from the University of Leicester warns that government efforts to widen participation in UK universities may be overstating the value of higher education at the expense of other ambitions. Dr Gavin Brown found that policies focus on 'raising' aspirations, but should instead broaden young people's horizons and consider emoti...
A study highlights the need for hospitals to develop formal plans to address priority treatment for pregnant women and newborns in case of an influenza pandemic. Despite 78% having written plans, concerns remain about resource allocation, vaccination safety, and coordination with public health agencies.
Researchers at Georgia Tech have built a test facility to evaluate and enhance sensors designed to detect buried land mines. The unique automated system measures the response of individual electromagnetic induction sensors or arrays of sensors against land mines buried at many possible angles.
Research led by Lynne Kammer found that whole grain cereal plus milk is comparable to sports drinks in replenishing glycogen after exercise. The study suggests that a quick bowl of cereal with skimmed milk can be a cost-effective recovery option for those refueling at home.
Scientists at A*STAR's IMCB have discovered the protein WIP1 as a critical suppressor of severe inflammation, which could lead to septic shock and death. The research also found links between chronic inflammation and cancer development.
A study funded by the Economic and Social Research Council found that children whose mothers often talked about people's feelings, beliefs, wants, and intentions developed better social understanding than those who did not. By age 12, these children were as socially sophisticated as adults.
Researchers at the University of Nottingham have identified a key mechanism behind bacterial meningitis, offering new avenues for treatment and vaccine development. The discovery could save hundreds of children's lives and provide broad protection against this deadly disease.
Researchers have discovered that a beating heart and blood flow are necessary for the development of the blood system, which relies on mechanical stresses to cue its formation. Compounds that modulate blood flow had a potent impact on the expression of a master regulator of blood formation, known as Runx1.
A new method of obtaining marine microbe samples has yielded an unexpected discovery: the presence of many varieties of small RNAs, which can act as switches to regulate gene expression. This finding may allow scientists to learn on a broad scale how microbial communities respond to environmental stimuli.
Researchers found that the gene ZBP1 is silenced in metastasizing breast cancer cells due to a methyl group attachment, leading to increased cell migration and proliferation. The study suggests potential drug targets for preventing metastasis and may help predict breast tumor outcomes by identifying signs of ZBP1 silencing.
A team of scientists has identified the molecular structure of hemocyanin, a protein complex involved in skin and hair coloring. The study reveals how hemocyanin is activated, leading to an understanding of both albinism and melanoma.
A meta-analysis of studies on aspirin therapy found a 12% reduced risk of nonfatal stroke in patients with peripheral artery disease, although this finding was not statistically significant. Aspirin monotherapy was also associated with a lower risk of nonfatal stroke, but no significant reductions were seen in other cardiovascular events.
A new rabbit rectal VX2 carcinoma model has been successfully established, mimicking human rectal carcinoma in pathological representation, tumor development, and metastasis. The model's ease of establishment, short growth period, and high stability make it an ideal major animal model for studying rectal carcinoma.
A home-based program aimed at improving exercise and diet can lead to significant improvements in physical function among older long-term cancer survivors. The study found that the intervention group had higher levels of physical function compared to the control arm, with declines in functional decline of almost five points versus slig...
A recent study published in the Journal of Periodontology found that marginal bone remodeling occurs between implant placement and prosthesis placement. After a five-year follow-up, minimal mean bone change was observed, indicating dental implants can be an effective tooth replacement option.
A 24/7 free-access, anonymous, interactive web-based self-help intervention called Drinking Less (DL) can aid problem drinkers in reducing their alcohol consumption. After six months, participants decreased their mean weekly alcohol consumption and 18.8% changed their drinking patterns to 'low-risk drinking'.
The Farnesoid X receptor (FXR) regulates the expression of cystathionase, an enzyme involved in hydrogen sulfide production. FXR agonists may correct for altered endogenous vasodilator generation in chronic liver diseases.
A new study finds that charcoal grilling has a significantly larger carbon footprint than propane grilling, with a difference of almost three times. The main reasons behind this disparity are the efficiency and production methods of LPG versus charcoal.
New research reveals a significant decline in Cascades snowpack due to warming climate, with potential implications for drinking water supplies, fisheries, irrigation, and hydropower. The study used multiple methods to analyze decades-long records of water content in the central Puget Sound basin.
Researchers found that antibody interference can hinder vaccine effectiveness, proposing a new approach to design more powerful vaccines. They suggest intentionally developing a vaccine strain that differs from the anticipated infectious virus at specific sites.
Researchers found that birds target salamanders with dominant traits more frequently, even when the ratio of these traits changes. This suggests that predators prioritize common prey forms, allowing unusual traits to persist.
Researchers found that giving rats living in isolation the opportunity to build nests led to faster and more complete healing of burn injuries than isolation-reared rats without nest-building materials. This effect was associated with altered gene expression in stress-associated brain structures.
A new study suggests that early diagnosis and treatment of Alzheimer's disease can lead to significant cost savings and improved quality of life for patients and their families. The research estimates that earlier intervention could save billions of dollars in long-term care costs, while also providing positive social benefits.
Researchers found that only 22% of participants met trial criteria, had shorter bouts of depression, quicker response to medication, and fewer side effects compared to excluded patients. The study suggests that antidepressants should not be seen as a panacea and calls for more research on treatment-resistant depression patients.
Researchers highlight the importance of indigenous peoples' traditional knowledge and resourcefulness in mitigating climate change. They are already adapting to climatic variation and can contribute to enhancing ecosystem resilience with their active responses.
The International Journal of Robotics Research is launching a new genre of research paper called 'data papers,' which will facilitate the release of high-quality, peer-reviewed datasets to the robotics community. The launch also includes revamped multimedia services with improved access and quality for supplementary data.
The University of Minnesota Institute for Mathematics and its Applications has received funding for five new math postdoctoral fellows as part of a National Science Foundation initiative. This program creates jobs for talented young mathematicians, addressing the shortage of trained scientists and promoting scientific training in the US.
A new system could use simple icons on TV screens to warn of future phases of a pandemic outbreak. The researchers emphasize the importance of rapid response and early detection in reducing the impact of a pandemic.
A study by NUI Galway found that older people living in residential care need a holistic approach to maintain a good quality of life. Key factors include the ethos of care, sense of self and identity, connection with others and activities.
A team of scientists discovered a genetic modifier, A229T, that increases the risk of retinal degeneration and blindness in patients with ciliary diseases. The study found that this change affects protein interactions critical for retinal function, leading to progressive vision loss.
A large population-based study found that women who have been treated for abnormal cervical cell growth are at higher risk for a recurrence of the disease or invasive cervical cancer. The study's findings should help guide physicians in making recommendations about follow-up treatment guidelines.
A new study outlines essential elements for successful refillable packaging, including affordability without sacrificing quality. Consumer surveys revealed that environmentally-friendly concerns drive usage, while businesses see it as a way to demonstrate responsibility and reduce costs.
Researchers test blue-white lamp prototypes to regulate sleep-wake cycles in people with dementia. The study shows promise in raising activity levels during daytime hours and increasing sleep at nighttime.
A study by the Commonwealth Fund found that elderly Medicare beneficiaries have higher ratings for consumer satisfaction, access to care, and quality of care compared to those with ESI. Many adults under age 65 would likely choose a public health insurance option if it were offered as part of health reform.
In a first-of-its-kind study, Americans ranked access to care as their top priority when considering spending their own money on health products and services. Respondents also showed a preference for preventive healthcare services but were dissatisfied with their quality.
The University of California, Irvine has been awarded a $45 million grant over five years to conduct infectious disease research. The grant is the campus's largest ever and will focus on improving detection, treatment, and vaccine development for bioterrorism agents and emerging infections.
Researchers found that providing rats with nest-building materials significantly improved wound healing and altered gene expression in the brain, leading to faster healing rates and reduced stress effects. The study suggests a novel approach to improving physical health through environmental stimulation.
A 22-year longitudinal study found that nearly 56% of Canadian adults are consistently inactive, with only 12% remaining active in each subsequent survey. Socio-economic factors, such as education and income level, significantly influence physical activity levels among participants.
A new study in Journal of Consumer Research finds that process-oriented thinking can increase decision difficulty and hinder consumers' motivation. This type of thinking involves considering both means and end benefits when making purchases, leading to more difficult choices.
Researchers found that 'lead users' with strong social connections are key to developing innovative products, while 'opinion leaders' influence locally. The study analyzed data from 537 Dutch schoolchildren aged 9-11.
A new study published in The Plant Genome suggests that acquiring cheap genome sequence data can improve the quality of feedstocks used to create biofuels, potentially reducing carbon footprint. This could lead to more sustainable high-yield production with minimal inputs.
Research suggests that individuals with strong negative mood-related drinking motives may be vulnerable to developing both major depression and alcohol dependence. The study found that familial factors contributing to mood-related drinking motives also contribute to the overlapping risk for MD and AD.
A new study found that body movements can aid in problem-solving, with participants who swung their arms more likely to solve a complex problem. The study's findings suggest that the brain uses bodily cues to help understand and solve problems, even when the individual is not consciously aware of it.
A new study reveals that Michigan mammal species are rapidly expanding their ranges northward in response to climate change. This shift is replacing historically northern species with southern equivalents, which could have significant ecological implications.
A home-based diet and exercise program reduced the rate of functional decline among older, overweight long-term cancer survivors. The intervention group showed significant improvements in targeted behaviors and overall health-related quality of life compared to the control group.
A new study finds that consumers evaluate products differently based on the timing of their purchase. When considering future use, desirability is a primary factor, while feasibility takes precedence for immediate use. Reevaluating a product later can also influence judgments, with future-considered products being viewed more favorably.
A new study provides clear protocols for clinicians to follow, updating fracture risk algorithms and creating simple tables to guide doctors. The findings suggest that repeat bone density measurements can help prognosis of fracture in patients at risk due to age and other factors.
A network of 120 sensors is monitoring Lake Wivenhoe's environmental conditions in real-time, enabling early detection of contaminants and high rainfall events. The system uses CSIRO's FLECK smart wireless sensor technology to collect detailed data on water quality, event flows, and weather patterns.
Archaeologists are racing to preserve the ancient underwater town of Pavlopetri, off southern Laconia in Greece. The site, dating back to 2800 BC, offers major insights into Mycenaean society and its workings.
The Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) has awarded £16.5m in grants to develop new techniques for screening and treating major public health issues such as cancer and stroke. The projects aim to create affordable home-based stroke detectors and cancer screening devices.
The study found that miR-196a promotes the metastasis of tumors by activating oncogenic pathways, leading to increased lung metastases in animal models. Additionally, high levels of miR-196a were associated with poor patient survival in pancreatic cancer patients.
A recent study by Ben-Gurion University of the Negev reveals a strong link between daily activity energy expenditure and appetite in elderly adults. Participants who reported improved appetite were found to have lower mortality rates, suggesting that subjective appetite measurement can be an important predictor of death.