Researchers have developed revolutionary ultrasonic transducers that can generate and detect ultrasound at scales a thousand times smaller than conventional ultrasonics. These tiny devices can be used to perform intracellular ultrasonics, produce high-frequency ultrasounds smaller than visible light wavelengths.
A large-scale randomized experiment found that online professional development for teachers resulted in improved instructional practices and content knowledge, with modest gains in student performance. The study involved over 330 teachers and 7,000 students across 13 states.
A new coating, combining carbon nanotubes with the natural enzyme lysostaphin, has been created to safely eradicate MRSA from surfaces. The coating is effective, selective and stable, and does not rely on antibiotics or leach chemicals into the environment.
Researchers found that EZH2 promotes tumor growth by shutting down genes that block formation of new blood vessels. Silencing EZH2 in ovarian cancer tumors reduced average tumor weight by 62% and increased programmed death of tumor cells.
A Springer journal article has won the prestigious George A. Miller Award for its innovative study on the impact of environmental factors on human behavior. The award recognizes outstanding recent articles on general psychology and highlights the importance of interdisciplinary research in understanding human behavior.
A UCSF-led team discovered a key reason why blood stem cells are prone to developing genetic mutations that can lead to adult leukemia. They found that quiescent blood stem cells use an error-prone DNA repair mechanism, which can result in chromosomal instability and contribute to hematopoietic abnormalities.
The NSF-funded program aims to develop engineering methods for stem cell production, focusing on scalable and standardized approaches. The initiative will support 30 new Ph.D. students over five years, with plans for international collaborations.
Research by Stanford University suggests that Internet access is crucial for finding mates, with 82.2% of participants having a partner if they have internet access compared to 62.8%. The study also found that the Internet is becoming increasingly important as a social intermediary for meeting partners.
Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center have found that amphetamine abuse increases the risk of aortic dissection in young adults. The study, published in American Heart Journal, analyzed medical records from nearly 31 million people and found a threefold increase in odds of aortic dissection among those who abused amphetamines.
The study found that depleting SIK2 from ovarian cancers sensitized the cells to paclitaxel, making it more effective in stopping cancer growth. Levels of SIK2 protein are increased in approximately 30 percent of ovarian cancers and associated with poorer survival rates.
Researchers at Tufts University School of Medicine have discovered an RNA sequence that promotes increased numbers of specific microRNAs, which regulate cell growth and stress response. This finding provides new insights into the links between miRNA expression and disease, including heart disease and cancer.
A recent study published in Nature has found that certain genetic disturbances contribute to autism. The research revealed that Copy Number Variants (CNVs) are over-represented in individuals with autism. Furthermore, abnormalities in genes related to synapse development have been linked to the origin of autism.
Two studies identify key targets for a new MRSA vaccine, targeting protein A to evade the immune system and clotting factors to disrupt tissue-damaging mechanisms. This approach shows promise in reducing virulence and providing lasting immunity against drug-resistant staph infections.
Researchers at the University of Gothenburg have identified 12 genes linked to aggressive breast cancer, which could lead to more reliable prognoses and better treatment strategies. The study found that these genes are associated with an increased risk of tumor progression, cell growth, motility, and development.
Researchers found that white population shifted from central city to outer ring suburbs, but minority representation was relatively flat across suburban rings. The study suggests a radial pattern of minority movement out from the central city rather than filling in inner suburbs.
The Mount Sinai team has developed a way to visualize coronary artery plaques using multi-color computed tomography (CT), which will lead to better and earlier diagnosis of cardiovascular disease. By harnessing high-density lipoproteins (HDL) and injecting gold particles into mice, researchers were able to see the location of vulnerabl...
Research published at the University of Oregon found that 11 hours of integrative body-mind training (IBMT) meditation training induces structural changes in brain connectivity, particularly in the anterior cingulate cortex. This brain area is linked to self-regulation and behavior control.
A Henry Ford Hospital study found that the Donor Risk Index does not significantly impact liver transplant outcomes on a small scale. Hepatitis C was shown to remain a major contributor to poor graft survival in transplant patients. The study confirms this finding despite large-scale data suggesting otherwise, highlighting the importan...
Patients undergoing bariatric surgery showed significant reduction in diabetes medication use, with over 80% eliminating medications one year post-surgery. The study suggests that bariatric surgery may lead to improved glucose control and lower healthcare costs for obese patients with type 2 diabetes.
A new study finds that obesity rates have declined or stabilized among some adolescent groups, while increasing among others. The disparities in obesity trends by race and ethnicity highlight the need for tailored intervention programs and policies.
IBEX maps reveal structured and intense interstellar boundary interactions; the spacecraft also collects hydrogen and oxygen from the interstellar medium, shedding light on solar system recycling processes. Recent observations of the Earth's magnetosphere provide new insights into protecting our atmosphere.
The IBEX spacecraft has mapped interactions between the solar wind and Earth's magnetosphere, revealing a chaotic pileup of charged particles along the magnetopause. The study provides new insights into the tenuous nature of Earth's outer exosphere and its interaction with the solar wind.
Researchers at Tufts University develop nanoparticles to deliver therapeutic genes to the retina, delaying onset of eye disease and preserving vision. The treatment, using a gene for GDNF, shows temporary but significant protection against photoreceptor cell death.
Researchers have discovered a protein called Salt Inducible Kinase 2 (SIK2) that plays a key role in regulating cell division and may be an attractive target for treating ovarian cancer. Combination therapies targeting different phases of the cell cycle are highly desirable for optimal cancer treatment.
A Canadian study published in CMAJ found that home care after hip surgery in seniors significantly increases survival rates. The study of 11,326 patients aged 65 and older revealed that those who received home care were 43% less likely to die within three months of the procedure.
Researchers at Ohio State University used mathematics to study the proteins that influence the birth of a human fat cell, identifying three key proteins: NF-kB, PPAR-gamma, and cyclin D. The study's findings could lead to a better understanding of obesity and insulin resistance.
Tropical Depression Five's remnants have re-emerged in the Gulf of Mexico, with NASA satellites tracking its thunderstorms and potential for rebirth. The system has a 60% chance of developing into Tropical Depression 5 again, bringing heavy rainfall and gusty winds to coastal areas.
A new study found that more than one in four pregnant and postpartum women in India experienced physical or non-physical abuse by in-laws. This form of abuse was significantly linked to intimate partner violence, with critical implications for prevention efforts.
Researchers at UCLA's Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center have found that adult stem cells vital for lung repair are associated with a poor prognosis in patients who develop cancer. These cells may mutate into cancer-causing stem cells, making them a potential target for prevention strategies and new targeted therapies.
Researchers at the Buck Institute have used human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) to treat rodent models of Parkinson's Disease, paving the way for potential cell therapies. The study shows that iPSC-derived dopamine-producing neurons can engraft and ameliorate behavioral deficits in animals with PD.
When faced with predator threats, snails settle for single parenthood sooner and adopt a different mating strategy. This approach reduces the risk of mortality and its negative effects on offspring survival rates. Research by biologist Josh Auld found that scared snails reproduce more quickly than calm counterparts.
Scientists at the University of Liverpool have created a synthetic drug for malaria treatment that is more potent than naturally derived artemisinin. The new drug's stability makes it last longer in the body, reducing the chance of parasite re-appearance and making it more cost-effective to mass produce.
A retrospective study of 17 surgical programs from 13 countries found that the operative death rate was 0.2 percent, suggesting safe surgery is possible in these settings. The study highlights the need for quality improvement programs and global minimum standards for surgical care in humanitarian contexts.
Researchers are tracking short- and long-term exposure to oil and dispersants in Gulf Coast salt marshes. The goal is to document changes in Spartina grasses, plant growth, and marsh animals and microbes.
A study found that patients with basal cell carcinoma who have multiple lesions are at higher risk of developing more cancers. Red hair and a higher socioeconomic status were associated with an increased risk of multiple lesions.
Research finds that ambient lighting in cars enhances space perception, perceived quality of materials and design, and makes drivers feel safer. However, excessive brightness leads to driver complaints of distraction and discomfort.
A recent study published in Archives of Dermatology found that individuals with psoriasis are at a higher risk of developing depression, anxiety, and suicidality. The study estimated that there are over 10,400 cases of depression, 7,100 cases of anxiety, and 350 cases of suicidality related to psoriasis each year.
A new study from Virginia Commonwealth University finds that antidepressant desvenlafaxine, known as Pristiq, effectively treats major depression in women during perimenopause and menopause. The medication showed significant improvement in symptoms, with response rates of 58.6% for those taking Pristiq compared to 38.2% on placebo.
A study by Rice University geochemists found that human activities like damming have completely obscured the natural carbon dioxide cycle in the Brazos River. The researchers used radiocarbon dating to determine the age of carbon dioxide samples from seven sites along the river, revealing a unique geochemical story.
A newly formed advisory committee will review all federal breast cancer research efforts and develop recommendations for improving existing programs. The committee aims to expand opportunities for collaborative, multi-disciplinary research and advance the understanding of links between environment, genes, and health.
A study by Dr. Paul Frenette reveals a unique 'partnership' between bone marrow stem cells, which could lead to advances in regenerative medicine. The partnership involves hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) and mesenchymal stem cells, with the latter playing crucial roles in maintaining HSCs and facilitating regeneration.
Researchers found that proactively disclosing medical errors decreased new legal claims and costs for health care systems. Collaboration between internists and specialists improved care for patients with chronic hepatitis C virus infection by increasing adherence to quality-of-care measures. However, administering corticosteroids to de...
Researchers mapped epigenetic changes during blood cell differentiation, revealing complex patterns and potential applications for stem cell therapies. The study's findings could guide understanding of diseases like leukemia and lymphoma, paving the way for new treatments.
A study by Thomas Schielke found that altering lighting can significantly affect the perceived brand identity of a store, with subtle differences between global regions. The study suggests that using consistent lighting designs can facilitate sending a specific brand image globally.
A study by David Blouin found that people who think of animals as children tend to have a city background, while those in rural areas may view pets as just another animal. Having children often changes owners' thoughts on their pets.
A recent NIH-funded study has uncovered a key step in brain events leading up to cocaine addiction, highlighting the potential for MeCP2 to regulate cocaine intake and determine vulnerability. By balancing with miRNA-212, this protein impacts an individual's motivation for self-administering cocaine.
Despite high burden of disease, many cancers are preventable or treatable with generic drugs, education, and training. Initiatives like vaccination against HPV and hepatitis B virus can significantly impact cancer mortality. GTF.CCC aims to support existing initiatives and improve health systems in LMICs.
A new study by researchers David Kirk and Derek S. Hyra found that foreclosures do not independently lead to increased crime rates in communities. The study suggests that both foreclosures and crime are products of similar community-level factors, including poverty, segregation, and political clout.
A study by Kristin Jordan found that low-income students are overrepresented in community colleges due to limited access to college preparation programs. Access to such programs is crucial for increasing the chances of attending a more selective college, regardless of academic ability or SAT scores.
A team of researchers has discovered a genetic link between the immune system and Parkinson's disease, finding a new association with the HLA region. The study, which analyzed over 2,000 patients and healthy volunteers, suggests that immune function may play a role in the development and progression of Parkinson's disease.
Researchers at Duke University Medical Center found a connection between MeCP2 protein levels and psychostimulant-induced changes in adult mouse brains. The study suggests that MeCP2 may play a role in regulating the rewarding properties of stimulant drugs, which could lead to new treatments for addiction.
Researchers at Case Western Reserve University and Vanderbilt University used an infrared laser to pace an avian embryonic heart, showing no harm to the tissue. This non-invasive device may help understand environmental factors affecting heart rate in embryos and develop new pacemakers.
A new study suggests that adolescent sexual intercourse in committed romantic relationships is often harmless to their academics. In contrast, youth who engage in sex outside of romantic relationships are at greater risk for academic problems such as truancy and dropping out. The research analyzed data from two waves of the National Lo...
The international community must prioritize cancer care as a global health issue, with stark disparities between low- and high-income countries. Implementing evidence-based interventions can prevent or ease suffering from many malignancies, reducing the gap in access to care.
Studies show that watching superheroes promote aggressive and autonomic behaviors can harm boys' relationships and psychological adjustment. Experts recommend teaching boys to resist these stereotypes and promoting healthy family and friendship relationships to improve their mental well-being.
Research from the University of Gothenburg found a link between middle age stress and late-life dementia, especially Alzheimer's disease. Women who reported repeated periods of stress in middle age were 65% more likely to develop dementia.
A team of marine microbiologists at Newcastle University have discovered that bacteria can detect airborne chemicals like ammonia using a molecular 'nose'. This ability leads to the production of biofilms, which are major causes of infection on medical implants and cost the marine industry millions every year.
Researchers at NC State University developed a screening tool to predict nanoparticle interactions with biological systems, allowing for improved safety and applications in drug delivery. The study uses molecular probes to create 'fingerprints' identifying how nanoparticles will behave inside the human body.
Researchers at the University of Gothenburg identified a gene responsible for barnacles reacting to medetomidine, a substance that prevents fouling on ship hulls. This finding enables the development of an environmentally friendly and effective antifouling paint that acts as a deterrent.
Researchers have discovered a protein called methyl CpG binding protein 2 (MeCP2) that may control the addictive impact of cocaine in the brain. MeCP2 interacts with microRNA to regulate an individual's motivation to consume cocaine, and its influence can reduce vulnerability to addiction.