A study published in Chaos found that traditional topological models, which rely on abstract network connections, are less accurate than physics-based models when assessing the vulnerability of the US electric grid. The researchers conclude that the grid's unpredictability makes it difficult to identify potential attack points.
Washington University in St. Louis has achieved the world's first full certification under the Living Building Challenge, a rigorous green building performance standard. The 2,900-square-foot facility is powered by clean energy and incorporates nontoxic materials.
Researchers have found a synthetic molecule, LLL12, that blocks activation of the oncogene STAT3 in liver cancer cells, halting their survival and increasing sensitivity to chemotherapy. This discovery offers potential for an anti-cancer therapy option.
Researchers propose a three-stage strategy for diagnosing personality disorders, considering normal personality traits, severity scores, and dimensional ratings. The new system may lead to better clinical efficiency and care, but has not yet been widely supported by research.
A University of Missouri researcher has made significant progress in understanding cystic fibrosis by identifying the mutations that cause it. By manipulating the sensor of the channel protein, scientists may be able to develop a drug design that can eventually lead to a 'real cure' for this fatal genetic disease.
Regular physical activity, maintaining a healthy weight, and reducing alcohol consumption lower breast cancer risk for women with and without a family history of the disease. A study of over 85,000 postmenopausal women found that these behaviors significantly reduce breast cancer risk.
A study of over 100,000 patients found significant variability in US hospital blood transfusion rates for coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery. Despite varying rates, there were no significant differences in mortality rates among hospitals with different transfusion practices.
A cost analysis of pediatric ondansetron administration found substantial economic benefits, including reduced financial costs and hospitalizations. The study suggests this treatment could be valuable in countries with limited resources, but oral rehydration therapy should remain the primary approach in less developed countries.
Researchers from Northwestern University and the University of California, Berkeley found that reflecting counterfactually on an institution's origins increases employee commitment and morale. By thinking about alternative scenarios, employees see their current circumstance in a more positive light, fostering a renewed sense of devotion.
Researchers found gaps in coverage that vary across states by age, race/ethnicity and income, with some groups facing significant disparities. States like Massachusetts have low uninsurance rates but large gaps by income group.
Patients with peripheral artery disease experience high rates of hospitalizations and associated costs, even after initial procedures to clear blockages in leg arteries. Preventive strategies, including healthy lifestyle adoption, may help arrest or stall the progression of the disease.
A genetic mutation in the production of selenocysteine leads to progressive brain atrophy and severe mental retardation and epilepsy. The defect affects 1 in 40 Jews of Moroccan and Iraqi ancestry, making prenatal genetic screening a crucial preventive measure.
A 9-country study found that older people who choose not to have the flu vaccine often rely on indigenous health practices, good general health, and hand hygiene instead. Factors such as feeling vulnerable, trust in the vaccine's effectiveness, and cost also play a significant role in vaccination rates among this age group.
Researchers found that coffee husks can adsorb almost 50 milligrams of hexavalent chromium per gram, with two-thirds of the absorbed chromium recoverable. The use of coffee husks presents a viable and cost-effective part of a waste-management strategy due to their availability, safety in storage, and lack of protein.
Patients admitted with malnutrition or bedridden have a prolonged hospital stay risk, according to a study. Those with lower BMI, nutritional risk and severe diseases face longer stays, with a 65% greater risk compared to non-malnourished patients.
The new guidelines, published in CMAJ, focus on identifying and managing fractures and assessing risk. Current data indicate that many fracture patients are not appropriately assessed or treated, highlighting the need for improved management of osteoporosis and fragility fractures.
In laboratory tests, water fleas from clear-water alpine ponds in Washington state's Olympic Mountains survived UV rays better than those from murkier ponds. The fleas lack melanin, a protective pigment found in most animals.
Recent studies published in The Journal of Infectious Diseases found evidence supporting a possible link between XMRV and prostate cancer. However, conflicting reports suggest that XMRV is unlikely associated with chronic fatigue syndrome, HIV infection, or hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection.
A phase II clinical trial is underway to examine the efficacy of Revatio (sildenafil) in improving cardiac function for individuals with Duchenne muscular dystrophy. The six-month study aims to slow disease progression and increase life expectancy.
Researchers found a common denominator between Type 2 diabetes and Alzheimer's disease: PGC-1, a key regulator of glucose. Decreased PGC-1 levels may contribute to Alzheimer's disease progression by promoting beta-secretase degradation.
Researchers found that majority of heart failure patients pass away in acute care hospital, resulting in significantly higher costs. The study examined data from over 30,000 elderly patients with heart failure who died between 2000 and 2006 in Alberta, highlighting the need for discussions about end-of-life care options.
A new study finds that slowing population growth could significantly impact global carbon dioxide emissions, with urbanization and aging playing crucial roles. By mid-century, a slowdown in population growth could account for 16-29% of the emission reductions necessary to keep global temperatures from causing serious impacts.
Researchers identified distinct brain network abnormalities in children with pediatric bipolar disorder (PBD) and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), with the ADHD group showing more severe dysfunction in working memory circuits. The study suggests that better differentiation between the two disorders could lead to more ac...
This special issue of Environmental Science & Technology explores key topics in environmental policy, including decimating honey bee colonies, carbon capture and storage, and biodiversity. The issue also delves into the origins of environmental issues and how scientists are addressing concerns.
Research by USDA scientists found that winter canola can be used to control weeds, supplement animal feed and produce biodiesel. This has encouraged wheat farmers in Okanogan County to diversify their market options and align with USDA's priority of developing new sources of bioenergy.
Researchers used rotting fish to understand the decomposition process, shedding light on soft-bodied creatures that existed 500 million years ago. The findings have improved the accuracy of fossil reconstructions, allowing scientists to better place early vertebrates on the evolutionary timeline.
A redesigned microchip-based device, HB-Chip, captures more than 90% of cancer cells from blood samples, improving upon the original CTC-Chip. The new device also identifies previously unseen clusters of tumor cells, providing valuable insights into metastasis and targeted cancer therapies.
Researchers used corals as a proxy to study the shift in the ocean's thermocline, finding it has risen since the mid-1970s. The findings support climate model predictions and suggest a potential impact on global climate and oceanography.
Researchers at Fox Chase Cancer Center found that the loss of protein Nedd9 initially slows cancer formation but then makes tumors more aggressive. A class of drugs already used in clinics can make these aggressive tumors more sensitive to treatment.
Researchers are investigating a theory that 'friendly bacteria' can kill bone cancer cells in osteosarcoma. Modifying Salmonella typhimurium to produce molecules that target cancer-causing molecules could lead to a more effective treatment for bone cancer.
Researchers have identified a preclinical candidate that may slow the natural decline in memory associated with ageing. The new synthetic compound selectively blocks an enzyme involved in high levels of 'stress' steroid hormones, which are linked to memory loss.
A 12-week study of 86 overweight participants found that all three groups lost weight when consuming five to seven servings of potatoes per week. The results suggest that potatoes, when prepared in a healthy manner, do not contribute to weight gain and can be part of a weight loss program.
A Phase 3 trial showed patients receiving Probuphine had significantly less illicit opioid use and fewer withdrawal symptoms compared to placebo. The innovative implant formulation provided a steady, round-the-clock low dose of buprenorphine over six months.
A new mobile phone game, OrderUP!, has been shown to change health behaviors after just three weeks of play. Players are tasked with making healthy food choices for virtual customers, leading to discussions about nutrition and changes in eating habits.
Two social scientists are studying the pathways to commercialize graphene, examining strategies for research and development and fostering commercialization through external partnerships. The project aims to provide real-time insights into how nanotechnology research moves into early applications, addressing barriers and concerns.
A restrictive use of blood transfusions during cardiac surgery was associated with similar death and severe illness rates as a liberal approach, according to a study published in JAMA. The researchers found that limiting red blood cell transfusions did not increase the risk of complications or death at 30 days.
A clinical trial is underway at Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center to test a genetically reprogrammed herpes simplex virus (HSV1716) as a treatment for rare and aggressive forms of childhood cancer. The Phase I trial aims to assess the safety of the agent in young patients with solid tumors.
A mobile outreach program staffed by current and former sex workers is associated with increased entry to detoxification and residential drug treatment among women in street-based sex work. The program provides a safe space for sex workers to rest and have access to health, support, and addiction treatment services.
Hospitalizations for ATV injuries among US youth increased by 150% over a nine-year period, with significant increases seen in the South and Midwest. The study found that females ages 15 to 17 experienced the sharpest rise in ATV hospitalizations, despite males having the highest rate.
Researchers are conducting a national study to assess whether a targeted rehabilitation approach can aid stroke patients in leaving their homes more confidently. The study will compare outcomes of volunteer patients receiving the intervention with those not receiving it, aiming to improve physical capabilities and boost confidence.
Researchers at the University of Utah Health used MRI to identify areas where the left and right hemispheres of the brains of people with autism do not properly communicate. The study found functional connectivity abnormalities in the entire brain, adding to the understanding of this disorder.
Researchers detected a massive star's supernova in 2007, which appeared as a hot dust cloud instead of the typical explosion. The astronomers suspect this was more common early in the universe and may be related to the brightest star system in our galaxy.
A study of postmenopausal women found that engaging in a healthy lifestyle reduces breast cancer risk for those with and without a family history. Women who adhered to regular physical activity, maintained a healthy weight, and drank less alcohol had lower rates of invasive breast cancer.
A significant proportion of patients with advanced cancer receive common cancer screenings, despite the limited benefit. Screening rates are higher among those with a recent history of screening and in those with higher socioeconomic status and married status.
The program aims to cultivate public awareness of aging issues through diverse reporters. The fellows will develop a major aging-focused story or series, exploring topics such as grandparents raising grandchildren, elder-friendly housing, and seniors' use of new technology.
Research suggests that women who develop cardio-metabolic risk factors before pregnancy are more likely to have a subsequent pregnancy with gestational diabetes. The study recommends pre-conception screening for metabolic abnormalities to prevent this condition and its lasting health effects on children.
Scientists use rock hyrax urine to study long-term climate change, providing unique terrestrial records. Biomarkers in the urine reveal insights into ancient environments and potential climate drivers.
Research reveals that a pregnant woman's immune response to viral infections may induce subtle neurological changes in the unborn child, increasing the risk of neurodevelopmental disorders. The study suggests potential strategies for reducing this risk by targeting specific immune proteins.
Researchers studied peptide hormones in planarian flatworms to understand their reproductive output and potential link to parasitic diseases. The study found that disrupting neuropeptide processing in sexually reproducing planaria causes reproductive organs to regress.
Researchers recreated a miniature event at the universe's origins using Einstein's E=mc2 equation and the Large Hadron Collider. Dr. Andreas Warburton and his team are searching for exotic new particles, which could help complete or contradict the Standard Model of Particle Physics.
Research consensus establishes DBS as a treatment option for patients with severe Parkinson's symptoms, including tremors and motor fluctuations. The study provides guidelines for patient selection and surgical approach, emphasizing the importance of experienced teams and neurosurgeons.
Research by Prof. Eshel Ben-Jacob suggests that bacteria can effectively control 'noise' in their environment and make decisions that benefit the entire colony. Bacteria's group decision-making processes can inform human decision-making, particularly in situations with multiple stakeholders.
Physicists at the University of California, Berkeley and the Max Planck Institute of Quantum Optics successfully observed an electron being ejected from an atom using ultrafast laser pulses. The experiment enabled the capture and photography of valence electrons for the first time, paving the way for better control over high-speed elec...
A Concordia University professor argues that nurses can advocate for better healthcare and services for teenagers who are LGBTIQ, reducing transmission of sexually transmitted infections by discussing safe sex practices. Nurses should be nonjudgmental, tolerant and supportive of LGBTIQ individuals in the clinic and community.
A study of 102,470 patients found that transfusion rates for red blood cells, plasma, and platelets varied greatly between hospitals, ranging from 0% to 92.8%. Researchers did not find a link between patient mortality rates and hospital transfusion practices.
The National Science Foundation has renewed two centers for nanotechnology in society, investing $12.5 million to study the ethical, legal, economic, and policy implications of emerging technologies. The centers will focus on developing a strategic vision for anticipatory governance and ensuring responsible development.
Spinal osteoporotic fractures often go undiagnosed and untreated, leading to severe repercussions such as stooped back, acute pain, loss of height, and premature death. The IOF campaign aims to raise awareness and promote prevention, diagnosis, and early treatment.
The US Department of Defense has awarded a $1.5 million grant to develop and test nanoemulsion technology against a wide range of wound infections, including drug-resistant forms. The project aims to create a broadly effective treatment that can prevent infection, increase survival and enable rapid healing in wounded military personnel.
The Journal of Molecular Diagnostics is published on behalf of the Association for Molecular Pathology (AMP) and the American Society for Investigative Pathology (ASIP). The journal publishes high-quality original papers on scientific advances in molecular diagnostics.
Researchers have created a novel anaerobic digestion reactor that can generate electricity comparable to 25 wind turbines. Additionally, scientists have isolated a bacterium capable of decontaminating groundwater contaminated with chlorinated alkanes.
An observational study found that prenatal treatment of congenital toxoplasmosis with antibiotics significantly reduced the proportion of infected fetuses developing serious neurological sequelae. The study estimated that treating three fetuses could prevent one case of brain damage, suggesting a potential preventive strategy.
Researchers argue that genomic risk prediction for population-level preventive healthcare is not yet supported by evidence. A cost-effective approach would require interventions for those at risk, but such an approach has yet to be demonstrated. The authors caution against widescale implementation of genetic screening for disease risk.
African American women with higher vegetable intake have a lower risk of developing estrogen receptor-negative breast cancer. High cruciferous and carrot consumption may play a role in reducing breast cancer risk through their effects on estrogen metabolism and antioxidant properties.
A study found that buprenorphine implants significantly reduced opioid use over 16 weeks, with 65.7% of patients remaining in the study for 24 weeks and fewer withdrawal symptoms. The implants also showed promise in decreasing non-medical opioid use.