The US Department of Energy has awarded nearly $1.3 million in funding to two research projects at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, focusing on improving the nuclear fuel cycle and developing next-generation nuclear reactors.
New research finds that obese men are less sensitive to fat taste and have impaired gut hormone release, leading to overeating. The study suggests a possible link between high-fat diets and reduced physiological responses to fat, paving the way for further investigation.
Researchers improved a theoretical model for polymer movement through nanopores, addressing the motion of polymers inside pores and introducing significant increases in total time in the pore. This improvement has potential technological applications in DNA sequencing and biosensors.
A new study led by University of Colorado at Boulder indicates that rising sea levels in the Indian Ocean are partly caused by human-induced climate warming, threatening coastal areas and islands. The study suggests that the Indo-Pacific warm pool is amplifying regional sea rise changes, with potential far-reaching impacts on global cl...
Research tracked over 5,000 military conscripts from age 20 to 80 and found that obese men had twice the death risk as non-obese men, with a constant effect lasting up to 60 years. Obesity at age 20 was also linked to increased mortality by 10% for each BMI point above a healthy threshold.
Carnegie Mellon University has launched a $7 million initiative to increase U.S. enrollments in computer science and STEM fields by leveraging students' interest in robots. The program, called Fostering Innovation through Robotics Exploration (FIRE), will develop new tools and competitions to attract more young people to these careers.
Scientists have identified a promising target for a strategic hit in bacteria that could help halt reproduction and reduce the spread of infections. The research, led by Dr. Antonio J. Martín-Galiano and professor José M. Andreu, maps out a protein called FtsZ, which is crucial for bacterial cell division.
Researchers developed a noninvasive device that can measure electrical conductivity in geological core samples without destroying them. This technology has the potential to provide valuable information about rock layers and help oil companies understand and evaluate oil and gas reserves.
A study estimated that nearly 5 percent of the Key West population was exposed to dengue virus in 2009. This finding raises concerns about the potential for a large-scale outbreak in the region.
New research from North Carolina State University finds that business practices like outsourcing and project-based teams lead to worker stress, decreased employee loyalty, and lower quality of life. Employers also face long-term problems such as increased turnover and higher costs.
Scientists studied ancient bird migration and found that northern birds had the ability to cross the land bridge, while southern species were restricted. The study reveals an uneven species migration pattern, with many New World oscine species breeding in South America despite having northern origins.
A new study finds that teaching parents to feed their infants 'responsively' promotes higher acceptance of vegetables and novel foods, while also improving growth patterns among infants. The one-year intervention has implications for long-term obesity prevention by fostering healthier eating habits in early childhood.
The Samuel Waxman Cancer Research Foundation has awarded 13 collaborative and 3 individual research grants worth $1.54 million to top scientists exploring cancer differentiation therapy. The recipients are experts in reprogramming cancer cells, with a focus on finding new treatments for various types of cancer.
Researchers at Nanjing University develop a new method to trap a wide spectrum of light, including visible radiation, using a self-similar-structured dielectric waveguide. This breakthrough has potential applications in on-chip spectroscopy, photon processing, and quantum computing.
A new study has found that centralized telephone-based care management can significantly reduce pain and depression in cancer patients. The INCPAD study combined automated calls with follow-up calls from nurse care managers, and the results showed improved outcomes for patients with all types of cancers.
Researchers at UC Irvine discovered that stimulating a single whisker can prevent strokes in rats by quickly expanding alternate arteries. The technique was 100% effective in preventing strokes when applied within two hours of blockage.
A recent study found that community-based interventions for childhood obesity were most effective in children under the age of five, slowing down unhealthy weight gain by an average of 1kg over three years. In contrast, primary school-aged children showed a smaller impact on overweight and obesity rates, while adolescents saw mixed res...
Researchers at Loyola University Health System found long-lasting disruptions in hundreds of genes involved in bone formation in rats exposed to binge drinking. The study suggests that lifestyle-related damage done during young adulthood may have repercussions lasting decades.
GOES-13 satellite captured images of Hurricane Alex from its formation to landfall in Mexico, providing valuable research data for forecasters. The storm caused severe flooding, mudslides, and record-breaking rainfall.
Gene therapy holds promise in treating prostate cancer, but challenges remain in achieving effective treatment. Researchers call for better testing systems and innovative approaches to advance the field. Prostate cancer is a leading cause of cancer death among men in the US.
A Purdue University researcher has used econophysics to demonstrate that under ideal circumstances, free markets promote fairness in salaries for workers. The study's findings suggest that the collective self-organizing dynamics of a free market economy lead to fairness as an emergent property.
The Technical University of Munich (TUM) is working on a comprehensive initiative to accelerate the development of electric vehicles, focusing on making them affordable and sustainable. The goal is to unveil a concept car at the Frankfurt auto show in 2011 and eventually put a million electric automobiles on the road by 2020.
The University of Mississippi Medical Center is leading a nationwide NIH-funded investigation to identify risk factors for Alzheimer's disease, with a focus on vascular risk factors and ethnic differences. The $26 million study will examine thousands of patients using detailed neurocognitive testing and brain imaging.
Research finds that entitled employees feel more frustrated with their work lives and are more likely to engage in abusive behaviors towards co-workers. Supervisor communication can increase frustration among entitled employees.
The NASA GOES Project provides continually updating 'movies' of satellite imagery for Hurricane Alley, allowing on-line viewing on iPhone and iPad. The latest large-scale movie can be accessed at http://goes.gsfc.nasa.gov/goescolor/goeseast/hurricane2/movie/alley_east_conus.mp4.
A study found substantial regional differences in treatment practices for end-stage renal disease, including hospice care and dialysis before death. Regional variations were not explained by patient characteristics, highlighting the need for personalized and evidence-based decision-making.
A survey of 2,938 US physicians found that most (64%) agree to report incompetent colleagues, but only 67% actually do. The study highlights the need for improvement in physician self-regulation and reporting systems.
BioSET Inc. has been issued a patent for improved second-generation technology to design synthetic peptides that communicate growth signals to cells, fostering efficient healing. The technology has applications in numerous tissue repair cases, including orthopedic markets and sports medicine injuries.
A new generation of biological scaffolds enables the development of off-the-shelf tissue transplants that can be repaired and renewed like normal tissue. The technique removes cells from natural tissues to leave a biocompatible scaffold made of collagen, allowing patients' own cells to populate and bind to it.
The new partnership aims to address the need for smart alternative energy sources and prepare students for the emerging industry. The Smart Grid Research Center will focus on developing reliable, affordable, secure, clean, and efficient energy systems.
A new species of beetle, Himalusa thailandensis, has been found to feed on the invasive skunk vine, causing significant foliar damage. This discovery presents a potential biocontrol solution for controlling the spread of this invasive weed in the southern United States.
Despite progress, many countries still don't address advertising to children by calorie content and more regulations are needed. Lobstein noted that voluntary actions have some impact, but loopholes undermine efforts, and industry reform is hindered by profit loss.
TRMM satellite data shows Typhoon Conson with a well-formed eye and high thunderstorms dropping rainfall at 2 inches per hour. The storm's intensification is linked to hot towers, indicating it had reached typhoon status.
Researchers found that depressive symptoms in men with erectile dysfunction increase cardiovascular problems independently from other known risk factors. The use of antidepressant medications did not alter this relationship.
Researchers are developing a method to identify and purify stem cells from patients themselves that can give rise to beating heart cells. This approach aims to create an ideal product for transplant to repair heart damage caused by heart attack or cardiomyopathy.
A six-gene signature associated with metastatic disease has been identified in patients with pancreatic cancer, enabling earlier prediction of survival prognosis and potential therapeutic targets. This finding may inform treatment decisions and improve patient outcomes.
The report identifies key gaps in current knowledge and proposes a multi-disciplinary research approach to support HIV-positive women's reproductive health. The recommendations aim to enhance their ability to achieve their desired family size and promote healthy services.
Researchers at Case Western Reserve University have successfully imaged the open state of a K+ channel, allowing for better understanding of its effectiveness in treating cardiovascular diseases. The study has implications for improving pharmaceutical efficiency and enhancing the quality of cardiovascular-related drugs.
A study of gay male couples found that sexual agreements mainly improve relationship satisfaction and build trust. However, broken agreements can increase HIV risk when partners have different understandings of their agreement.
Researchers identified the Mahjong gene, which determines the winners of a life-or-death
The new guidelines update Osteoporosis Canada's recommendations on vitamin D intake for Canadians, citing the need for more research into optimal doses and safe upper limits. The recommended daily supplements range from 400-1000 IU for adults under 50, with higher doses required for those over 50.
Methodist Dallas Medical Center stopped an Acinetobacter outbreak by testing patients, implementing contact precautions, and conducting regular meetings between departments. The hospital's swift response was attributed to adequate resources, staffing, and a supportive administration.
New research reveals that having a lucky token can enhance performance by improving confidence. Volunteers who brought a lucky charm did better in memory games and set higher goals for themselves. Wishing someone good luck also improved success at tasks requiring manual dexterity.
A recent study on Cycas micronecia, a critically endangered ancient plant species, reveals moderate genetic variation within local populations and dynamic gene flow between regions. The research provides valuable insights into the conservation of this species, which is threatened by invasive pests and habitat loss.
Research reveals leptin's role in reducing food intake by activating the hippocampus, a brain region controlling learning and memory. Impaired leptin signaling may compromise cognitive processes that inhibit excessive food consumption.
A Tel Aviv University study found that nicotine patches and gum are ineffective in combating cigarette cravings, which are instead driven by psychological cues. The research suggests that understanding smoking as a habit rather than an addiction can lead to more successful treatment methods.
Public health researchers at Tufts University describe cutting-edge methods for addressing obstacles in disease surveillance, enabling earlier detection and improved preparedness. The new tools facilitate the analysis of vast data streams from various sources, including satellite images and social media.
Animal research suggests that a high-fat diet consumed by nursing mothers increases the risk of obesity and pre-diabetes in their offspring. In contrast, consuming a high-fat diet during pregnancy only reduces the risk of obesity when combined with postnatal breastfeeding on a low-fat diet.
A six-year study found that anticholinergic medications increase the risk of mild cognitive impairment and memory loss in older adults, especially those from African-American communities. The researchers suggest that these drugs may worsen cognitive function, but not necessarily lead to Alzheimer's disease.
A study by the University of Granada found that health professionals have difficulty diagnosing terminal illnesses, particularly in chronic and degenerative cases. This can lead to a lack of palliative care for patients, as they may be deprived from necessary assistance aimed at improving their quality of life.
A new study led by Keith Ramsey at Pitt County Memorial Hospital (PCMH) demonstrates that universal surveillance for MRSA decreased health care-associated infections (HAIs) related to devices by 68% for ventilator-associated pneumonias, 51% for central line-associated bacteremias, and 49% for catheter-associated urinary tract infections.
Research reveals that our minds play a significant role in governing appetite and satiety. Expectations before eating and memories after eating influence how long meals stave off hunger. By manipulating these factors, portions can be controlled effectively, leading to potential weight loss benefits.
Researchers are using induced pluripotent stem cells from skin tissue to grow dopamine neurons and study Parkinson's disease. The goal is to better understand the cause of the disease by comparing healthy cells with those affected by Parkinson's.
Johns Hopkins researcher Peter Pronovost argues that arrogance, lack of transparency, and inadequate measures hinder progress in preventing patient harm. Central line-associated bloodstream infections can be largely prevented with accurate measurement and cultural changes.
Research reveals soy phytoestrogens reduce weight gain and increase energy expenditure in post-menopausal rats, highlighting potential natural treatment for obesity. Further human studies are needed to confirm the long-term effects of a soy-rich diet on food intake.
Researchers discover Lgl and Mahjong proteins help identify how healthy cells fight cancer cells. Normal cells surround cancer cells, leading to their death, while cancerous cells break free and divide.
Researchers at CWRU School of Dental Medicine discovered a biomarker called human beta defensin-3 (hBD-3), which is associated with the early stages of oral cancer and can serve as an early warning system. hBD-3 attracts molecules that help cancerous tumors grow and spread.
A study by North Carolina State University found that male football players are more comfortable with treatment by male athletic trainers for gender-specific injuries, but have no preference for general psychological conditions. However, they prefer female trainers for non-gender-specific injuries like a dislocated shoulder due to pote...
A new prediction tool calculates individualized risk for local recurrence five and ten years after surgery, helping physicians and patients weigh treatment options. The nomogram integrates available information to estimate absolute risk, providing a valuable tool in decision-making.
Research finds that overweight participants' brain activity is not linked to feelings of hunger when responding to food smells and tastes. Activation of the amygdala predicts weight gain in one year after scanning session.
A University of Michigan study finds that Russians are more likely to focus on negative feelings but are less likely to feel depressed as a result. They tend to spontaneously distance themselves from their emotions, leading to lower levels of distress and blame compared to Americans.
A study found pronounced regional differences in treatment practices for older adults with kidney failure, including decisions on starting or stopping dialysis. Higher-spending regions tend to have more intensive care, but patients don't necessarily fare better.
Researchers found that interferon blocks the development of immune cells causing asthma, providing proof-of-principle for a potential therapy. The protein targets the transcription factor regulating Th2 cell function, potentially stopping asthma-causing chemicals from being released.
Long-term follow-up study reveals increased mortality rates in childhood cancer survivors due to second primary cancers and cardiac deaths. Risk persists beyond 45 years after initial diagnosis, likely attributed to late complications of treatment.
A high-fat diet is associated with reduced dopamine release and reuptake in the striatum of rats. This change in brain neurochemistry affects motivation and willingness to work for food reward, mirroring effects seen in humans with obesity.
A telephone-based care management program improved cancer patients' pain and depression by 30% and 50%, respectively. The program, which combined telephonic care management with automated symptom monitoring, showed better outcomes for several health-related quality of life domains.
LSUHSC has received a $2.1 million grant to study the role of T-helper cells in preventing Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia, a life-threatening infection linked to HIV/AIDS and other immune deficiencies. The research aims to identify effective vaccines that can activate these cells to prevent or treat PCP.
Italian scientists have successfully completed preclinical trials for a gene transfer treatment that can correct the lack of beta-globin in patients' blood cells, a major step towards treating beta-thalassemia. The treatment uses genetically corrected stem cells to restore haemoglobin production and overcome the disorder.
Researchers found that men with high-risk prostate cancer lose significantly less bone mineral content as they age compared to healthy men. The study, published in BJUI, suggests a possible link between prostate cancer and bone health, which could lead to new prevention strategies.
Tropical Storm Conson has been downgraded to a typhoon after interacting with the northern Philippines' land surface, with maximum sustained winds near 75 mph. The storm is now expected to continue weakening due to increased wind shear and interact with southern China.
Researchers found 323 unique genes influenced by smoking, with a strong involvement in processes related to cancer, cell death, and metabolism. The study's results indicate that exposure to cigarette smoke alters gene expression, leading to a sobering scale of influence on human disease risk.
Scientists have observed the first real-time measurements of a rare gas atom and halogen molecule dissociation. The study found that adding vibrational energy to the bromine-stretching vibration led to rapid direct dissociation, while higher excitation resulted in a more complex mechanism.
Researchers found that consumers overconfidently predict their learning curve before trying out skill-based products, then become underconfident after gaining experience. This under-prediction has consequences for consumer behavior, such as a willingness to pay less for a product after initial use.
Penn State's Liwang Cui leads a seven-year, $14.5 million project to combat malaria in Southeast Asia. The center will address research needs in regions with high malaria morbidity and mortality rates.
A survey of over 1,900 physicians found that more than one-third did not agree that reporting incompetent colleagues is always necessary. Many physicians feel unprepared to deal with impaired or incompetent colleagues, citing reasons such as lack of knowledge about reporting obligations and fear of retribution.