University of Washington engineering students have developed a device that uses the sun's rays to detect bacterial and viral contaminants in drinking water. The device, called Solar Disinfection of Water (SODIS), was designed to monitor water disinfection using the sun's rays and has won $40,000 prize from Rockefeller Foundation.
Researchers have identified a novel type of papillomavirus, EcPV-2, linked to equine genital cancer. The virus is closely related to human genital cancers and its presence in affected horses suggests a potential cause and cure.
A study of 184 patients with advanced head and neck cancers found that 85% could speak normally and 63% could swallow normally after treatment. Factors such as age, smoking history, tumor location, and planned surgery were linked to poorer speech and swallowing outcomes.
Researchers at Syracuse University's L.C. Smith College of Engineering and Computer Science have developed a new air-flow technology to increase the efficiency of large wind turbines. The approach uses intelligent systems to control airflow and reduce noise and vibration. Initial results show that flow control can enlarge the operation...
Scientists at Joslin Diabetes Center have identified progenitor cells in mouse white fat tissue and skeletal muscle that can be transformed into brown fat cells. The study found that exposure to the protein BMP-7 and the diabetes drug rosiglitazone increased conversion rates, suggesting a potential for cell-based brown fat therapies.
Researchers have discovered Möbius symmetry in metamaterials, which are engineered materials with electromagnetic properties. This discovery opens the door to finding and exploiting novel phenomena in metamaterials, as the coupling constants between meta-atoms can be arbitrarily varied without constraints.
A study published in Applied Economics Letters found that subsidies have no effect on Spanish cinema productivity. In contrast, awards increase the number of films produced and improve productivity. The researchers also suggested that subsidies should be competitive like awards to create a yardstick for film industry workers.
A systematic review found that one in every 200 inpatients taking acid suppressive medications developed pneumonia. The study suggests that deaths from hospital-acquired pneumonia could be caused by these medications.
A natural substance in dairy fat, trans-palmitoleic acid, has been identified as a potential factor in reducing the risk of type 2 diabetes. The compound is found in milk, cheese, yogurt, and butter and may mimic the normal biologic role of its produced counterpart, cis-palmitoleic acid.
Researchers at UC San Diego School of Medicine present a new explanation for how fibrotic cells form in the human liver, upending long-held assumptions about EMT and FSP1. The study reveals endogenous stellate cells are the primary culprit in liver fibrosis, and FSP1 is an unreliable marker.
Researchers found a genetic variant associated with a threefold increase in susceptibility to severe cocaine abuse among white individuals. The variant affects dopamine modulation in the brain and sets up a vicious circle leading to craving and heavy abuse.
Marine scientists found that ocean acidification decreases nitrification rates globally, which could lead to reduced nitrous oxide emissions. This decrease may also shift the available form of dissolved nitrogen in surface oceans, favoring certain plant species.
A study of 14 years of observation of Kanyawara chimpanzees found that females tend to play with sticks more often than males and occasionally treat them like mother chimps caring for infants. This suggests a possible link between biological predilections and sex-stereotyped socialization in object play.
A new national study reveals that streams and rivers produce significantly higher greenhouse gas emissions than previously estimated, with nitrous oxide emissions from river networks making up at least 10 percent of human-caused emissions. This research highlights the importance of effective mitigation strategies to reduce nitrogen inp...
Researchers identified DNA sequence variations associated with abnormal heart rhythms in multiple regions of the human genome. The study found links between these variations and increased risk for sudden cardiac death and heart damage.
Researchers at UAB found that robotic surgery for upper airway and digestive track malignant tumors is as effective as standard minimally invasive techniques, with a two-year survival rate of 86.3%. The study also showed improved swallowing function in patients.
A recent study found racial disparities in liver cancer survival rates, with black patients experiencing higher mortality rates compared to white and Hispanic patients. Despite receiving similar treatments, black patients had a 12% increased rate of death, indicating poor access to care and subpar treatment outcomes.
Research by St. Jude Children's Research Hospital found that intensive chemotherapy significantly increased the cure rate to nearly 88% for older adolescents with acute lymphoblastic leukemia, narrowing the survival gap between older and younger patients.
A new study finds that brain imaging can predict which children with dyslexia will improve their reading skills, with an accuracy rate of up to 90 percent. The research used advanced brain activity images and identified specific brain areas that indicate future progress.
The IceCube Neutrino Observatory is a cubic kilometer instrumented ice detector that records rare collisions of neutrinos with the atomic nuclei of water molecules in the Antarctic ice. The observatory provides an innovative means to investigate fundamental particles originating from cosmic phenomena.
Researchers at PNNL have developed a system to measure winds high up into the air, providing more accurate wind predictions and improving wind power forecasts. This study has the potential to improve how sites are chosen for wind farms and how those farms are operated.
Researchers found a genetic difference in TEP1 gene conferring resistance to human malaria parasites in one of two emerging Anopheles gambiae species, M and S. The study suggests that this resistance could impact malaria transmission efforts.
A new study by Stanford University School of Medicine researchers found that expanded HIV screening and treatment could prevent up to 212,000 new infections over the next 20 years. The strategy of one-time screening for low-risk individuals and annual screening for high-risk individuals is cost-effective.
Vanderbilt researchers found that pro-inflammatory cytokines can trigger despair-like behavior in mice, similar to human depression. They also discovered a mechanism by which inflammation enhances serotonin reuptake, potentially increasing the risk of mood and anxiety disorders.
A recent study found that most patients with advanced head and neck cancer experience minimal residual speech and swallowing deficits following combined chemotherapy and radiation treatment. Factors associated with worse outcomes included being female, having a history of smoking, or a tumor in the hypopharynx or larynx.
Researchers found that echinacea supplements reduced cold duration by an average of 7-10 hours and 10% in overall severity. The study involved over 700 participants and concluded that while the supplement showed minimal benefits, it was still considered safe for use.
Researchers at Stanford University School of Medicine used neuroimaging to predict reading skills improvement in teenagers with dyslexia. They found that brain activation patterns and white matter organization were key predictors, suggesting a potential new intervention approach.
Researchers from Imperial College London have developed technology that could sequence a human genome in mere minutes, potentially unlocking personal susceptibility to diseases. The technology uses nanopores and could lead to fast, inexpensive genome sequencing with numerous benefits for medical tests and DNA profiles.
A new breathing therapy, CART, has been shown to be more effective than traditional cognitive therapy in reducing panic symptoms by reversing hyperventilation. The treatment program teaches patients to breathe normally, reducing chronic and acute hyperventilation and associated physical symptoms.
Researchers at Newcastle University found that honeybees can avoid toxic nectar through taste and learning, suggesting a potential factor in colony health under stress. The study highlights the importance of understanding how bees detect and avoid toxins to breed non-toxic plants.
Researchers developed a method to stabilize living lung tissue for imaging, allowing observation of live cell interactions and immune responses to lung injury. This breakthrough impacts disease research by enabling scientists to look deeper into physiological aspects of injury and diseases.
A new study found that black patients with early-stage liver cancer have a higher mortality rate than white patients, with median survival times ranging from 8-10 months. The disparity in treatment access also affects the survival rates of Hispanic and black patients compared to white patients.
A new study predicts that the Mariana crow will go extinct in 75 years due to a low first-year survival rate of 40%. The species is critically endangered and faces threats from invasive species like feral cats and brown tree snakes.
A new study from the University of Gothenburg estimates that approximately 2% of the population in West Sweden suffers from severe asthma, which is characterized by nasal congestion. The study suggests that patients with nasal complaints should be investigated for asthma, as more pronounced symptoms may be linked to severe asthma.
The American Society of Hematology awards $100,000 to fellows and $150,000 to junior faculty for a two- to three-year research period. The 2011 Scholar Award recipients include Basic Research Fellow Omar I. Abdel-Wahab, MD, and Clinical/Translational Research Fellow Samantha M. Jaglowski, MD.
Scientists create a new model system to study the effects of mechanical stress on plastics, allowing direct observation of polymer chain reorganization. This breakthrough could lead to improved understanding of material development and properties.
A CCNY-led interdisciplinary team recreated colonial hydrology by synthesizing historical records with present-day data. The study identifies broad hydrologic trends for the northeastern US between 1600 and 1800, highlighting the impact of human factors on waterways.
Malaria-infected red blood cells stiffen up to 50 times more than healthy ones, blocking capillaries and impeding nutrient and oxygen delivery. This deformation changes blood viscosity and flow, potentially leading to severe organ damage.
Researchers at Vanderbilt University engineered a mouse that can run longer on a treadmill by increasing its acetylcholine supply, which could lead to new treatments for myasthenia gravis and other disorders. The study also found potential links between cholinergic signaling deficits and conditions like muscular dystrophy and ADHD.
The PRIMA study found that rituximab-maintenance therapy significantly improved progression-free survival and response rates compared to no treatment in patients with follicular lymphoma. After 2 years, 71.5% of patients in the rituximab group achieved complete or unconfirmed complete response compared to 52.2% in the observation group.
A survey of Johns Hopkins faculty found strong support for working with the local community to make research more relevant and improve its quality. Faculty who conducted community-based research were more likely to hire and collaborate with local residents, and involve them in study design and dissemination.
Scientists confirm environmental limits to species diversity, extending the concept over a million years through lizard study in the Caribbean. Larger islands tend to support more distinct species of lizards.
A new study reveals that historical socio-economic factors, not current ones, drive alien species richness in Europe. The researchers found that economic activities from 1900 were more influential on the establishment of invasive species than those from 2000.
A study by University of Sheffield found that food in early life influences fertility in both men and women. Men and women born into poor families with limited crop yields during critical periods had lower reproductive success.
Researchers at the University of Gothenburg have confirmed that ovarian cancer tissue and healthy tissue smell different, using an electronic nose. The discovery has major practical implications for early detection and treatment of ovarian cancer.
Researchers found that Echinacea has no significant effect on reducing the duration or severity of cold symptoms. In contrast, a diet rich in whole-fat dairy products may help lower the risk of developing diabetes due to increased levels of trans-palmitoleate. Exercise and Vitamin D supplements are also recommended as effective interve...
A study of US adults found that women are more likely to use indoor tanning facilities than men, while few tanners mention reducing skin cancer risk. The prevalence of indoor tanning among US adults is relatively low, with 18.1% of women and 6.3% of men reporting use in the past year.
A comprehensive analysis of Africa's fossil rodents provides valuable insights into the continent's paleoecology and sheds light on human evolution. The study documents over 130 genera, underscoring the diversity of habitats in ancient Africa.
A study published in The Lancet found that deworming treatment during pregnancy does not affect infant immune responses to vaccines or infectious disease incidence. The authors suggest that the value of this intervention should be re-examined, and policy recommendations be reviewed.
A new analysis by Field Museum scientists found that 44 theropod species distributed across six major lineages were eating plants, with the ancestor to modern birds likely losing its appetite for flesh alone. The study suggests that iconic predators like Velociraptor and T. rex should be viewed as exceptions rather than the rule.
New research reveals that children with autism are unable to search effectively for objects in real-life environments, contrary to previous findings. This skill is crucial for achieving independence in adulthood.
A study published in Cortex found that the first elements of semantic memory to deteriorate are distinguishing characteristics of a concept, such as a zebra's stripes. This blurs related concepts, leading to temporary improvements in recognizing related words in early Alzheimer's disease.
A Michigan State University study found that rivers and streams are a significant source of nitrous oxide, a potent greenhouse gas, contributing twice as much as previously estimated. The increased production can be linked to nitrogen fertilizers and crop cultivation, highlighting the need for reduced agricultural fertilizer use.
Researchers at Medical College of Wisconsin sequenced all genes in a boy's DNA to identify a previously-unknown mutation responsible for his rare bowel disease. A cord blood transplant successfully treated the disease, allowing the boy to eat healthily again.
Researchers found that global river networks are the source of at least 10% of human-caused nitrous oxide emissions to the atmosphere, three times the IPCC estimate. Nitrous oxide is a potent greenhouse gas contributing to climate change and stratospheric ozone destruction.
Researchers at the Virginia Institute of Marine Science found that absolute sea level in Chesapeake Bay is rising at a rate of about 1.8 millimeters per year, slower than the global average. However, local subsidence rates are significantly higher, adding up to a growing threat of coastal flooding and erosion.
A study published in Archives of Dermatology reveals that nearly 40% of individuals with psoriasis also have features of the metabolic syndrome. The most common feature among individuals with psoriasis is abdominal obesity, followed by high triglyceride levels and low levels of HDL cholesterol.
A new study found that most Massachusetts physician groups are using patient feedback to improve patient experiences, with a focus on staff courteousness, scheduling practices, and electronic health records. However, only a small number of groups are prioritizing the role of physicians in improving patient care.
A study found that trauma patients in Illinois frequently exceed the mandated 2-hour transfer window, except for those with life-threatening injuries. Despite this, the most critically ill patients typically receive care within the time frame.
A study by UC Merced marine biologist Michael Beman reveals that rising greenhouse gases are making ocean water more acidic, fundamentally altering the way nitrogen cycles throughout the sea. This change could have significant impacts on all forms of marine life.
The Damon Runyon Cancer Research Foundation has awarded two researchers, Ken Cadwell and L. Stirling Churchman, with the Dale F. Frey Award for Breakthrough Scientists. They will use the $100,000 funding to pursue innovative research in cancer prevention, diagnosis, and treatment.
Researchers found that people distinguish between living and non-living faces, particularly around two-thirds of the way along a continuum from doll to human face. The study suggests that our brains scrutinize faces, especially the eyes, for signs of life.
A BYU research team found that eating an orange is better for you than its components when taken separately due to the specific mixture of antioxidants. The study identified several combinations, with hesperidin and naringenin appearing to contribute significantly.
A recent study from the University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB Health) has found that women using injectable or oral contraception, including DMPA and desogestrel, do not experience adverse effects on glucose and insulin levels. The research, conducted over three years, provides reassuring news for non-diabetic women using hormonal c...
Patients with oral squamous cell carcinoma who experience early or lymph node recurrence after initial treatment tend to have poorer outcomes. The study suggests that local recurrences within six months are associated with worse survival rates, while regional recurrences at longer intervals also negatively impact survival.
A new study found that doctors' metaphors used to explain Phase III clinical trials played a significant role in whether patients agreed to participate. Most participants struggled to understand randomization, but those who paid close attention were unaffected by the metaphor used.
Researchers found that young female chimpanzees carry and play with sticks, suggesting a biological basis for sex-specific play in humans. This behavior is linked to adult behavior, as females carry infants more than males, indicating a possible influence of biology on toy selection.
Researchers at the University of Notre Dame discovered that streams and rivers are a significant source of nitrous oxide emission, a potent greenhouse gas. The study found that human activities such as fertilizer use and sewage discharges increase nitrogen levels in waterways, leading to higher nitrous oxide production rates.
A new study published in Retrovirology reveals that cell samples used in previous research were contaminated with XMRV, not the cause of chronic fatigue syndrome. The researchers developed improved methods to detect XMRV and rule out infection by this virus as a cause of the disease.