Researchers at NIST have developed a simple process for producing nanocrystals that enable studies of physical and chemical properties affecting nanoparticle interaction. The process allows precise control over size, shape and composition, creating perfect-edged nanocubes with uniform size.
A new study has identified three factors linked to cognitive deficits in type 2 diabetes: high blood pressure, balance issues, and poor health reports. These factors contribute to weaker memory and slower cognitive processing in individuals with Type 2 diabetes.
Researchers identified TRPC6 as a key player in ischemic nerve cell death and found that suppressing its degradation prevents brain damage. In a rat model of stroke, they demonstrated that inhibiting TRPC6 degradation reduces nerve cell death.
LSU's Saundra McGuire collaborated with Nobel Laureate Roald Hoffmann to develop six effective learning strategies, including taking notes by hand and using practice tests. The authors also suggest six effective teaching tactics, such as bringing real-life examples into the classroom and using surprise and humor to engage students.
A study found that individuals with a specific genotype of the GABRA2 gene may be more sensitive to alcohol odors, leading to stronger cravings and potentially increased risk of alcohol dependence. This suggests a genetic link between the brain's reward system and environmental cues.
Very low birthweight and preterm infants are more likely to die without access to specialized NICU care. A regionalized system of NICUs has improved infant mortality rates since its inception in the 1970s, but progress has been hindered by a decline in Level III hospital births.
A new antibacterial peptide has shown great effectiveness against multidrug-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii and Escherichia coli infections in burn wounds. The peptide A3-APO is less toxic than current antibiotics and offers a promising alternative for treating these common infections in soldiers.
Physicists have discovered a new copper-based compound that exhibits properties never seen before in a superconductor. The material can be made to conduct electricity with or without electrons, offering a new path to studying the relationship between these two methods of creating superconductors.
University of Michigan researchers Kevin Kubarych and Carlos Baiz have achieved the feat of watching the first solvation shell respond to a chemical reaction. They realized that electrons move during chemical reactions, causing vibrational frequencies in surrounding molecules to change.
Researchers found that bacteria with highly resistant isolates sacrifice their own fitness to produce indole, helping vulnerable members survive antibiotics. This complex behavior was previously unknown and has significant implications for understanding bacterial strains and antibiotic resistance.
The newly launched GOES-15 satellite has successfully completed its on-orbit testing and is now operational. It will provide high-resolution images of Earth and track life-threatening weather patterns.
Research reveals that faith-based schools in the UK often fail to address LGBTQ+ issues, with teachers intimidated by power structures and unequal policies. The study calls for greater accountability from school leaders to challenge homophobic bullying and ensure equality for all students.
Researchers at Worcester Polytechnic Institute have found that cranberry juice cocktail significantly reduces the ability of certain bacteria to form biofilms on surfaces. This study has potential applications in developing new antibiotics and making medical devices more resistant to bacterial adhesion.
NASA's Atmospheric Infrared Sounder (AIRS) instrument captured an infrared image of Tropical Depression 9 showing high thunderstorm cloud tops and strong convection. The depression formed in the Atlantic Ocean with maximum sustained winds near 35 mph, moving west at 15 mph.
Research found that extracellular proteins require less energy to produce than their cellular counterparts, even though they are lost to the environment. Microbes like E. coli and Pseudomonas syringae have optimized their protein synthesis to reduce energy costs, with over 100 proteins being more economical in nature.
A new study finds that when plastic surgeons are involved in the initial treatment decision-making process, women are more likely to receive breast reconstruction. The study highlights the importance of discussing reconstruction options with a plastic surgeon and emphasizes the need for comprehensive care coordination.
Researchers have identified a way to preserve nerve cells in a rat model of stroke and developed a modified adenovirus vaccine that provides protection against malaria in mice. The vaccine targets a protein called TRPC6, which is involved in protecting nerve cells from death after a stroke.
Researchers recreated high pressures using a diamond-anvil cell and found unusual properties in iron-rich magnesium-iron oxide minerals. These findings suggest that ultra-low velocity zones (ULVZs) at the core-mantle boundary may be composed of solid, compositionally distinctive rocks rather than liquid-bearing materials.
A study suggests that staggered radiologist work shifts can expedite the communication of urgent findings and improve patient care. Radiologists were able to communicate urgent results two hours earlier than control groups, reducing mean elapsed times from image acquisition to result communication.
Researchers will explore fundamental questions about bone health and the immune system in a microgravity environment. The NIH is funding experiments on osteoporosis, immune response suppression, and excessive alcohol use.
Researchers discovered that mentally stimulating activities like crossword puzzles and reading may slow initial cognitive decline but accelerate dementia progression in older age. People with more active lifestyles tend to experience faster declines once diagnosed with dementia.
Physicists at NIST developed a new sensor to detect forces at the scale of yoctonewtons using trapped ions. The sensor achieved a measurement speed of 390 yoctonewtons in one second, outperforming previous records by an order of magnitude.
A study published in the Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery found significant differences in knee alignment and muscle activation between male and female soccer players. Male players activate specific hip and leg muscles more than females during kicking motions, which may contribute to the higher risk of ACL injuries among women.
Researchers have identified mechanisms allowing a common soil bacterium to recover precious metals from industrial waste. The discovery of 'BioPd' has great potential for generating clean energy and cleaning pollutants.
NASA's Aqua satellite captured infrared imagery showing two areas of strong convection north and south of Fiona's center, with cloud tops as cold as -63 degrees Fahrenheit. The storm is intensifying, bringing tropical storm conditions to the Northern Leeward Islands with potential rainfall accumulations of 1-3 inches.
A Queen's University study found that seven-year-old children only need one interaction with a trusted person to seek information. Four-year-olds, on the other hand, required multiple encounters to form an opinion about who to trust for accurate information.
A study found that tumor budding is a distinct morphologic feature with biologic and prognostic significance in lung adenocarcinoma, significantly linked to aggressive disease characteristics. The presence of tumor budding was also associated with lower five-year survival rates.
The researchers have developed a new class of electronic logic device using strain-gated transistors fabricated on a flexible polymer substrate, enabling logic operations powered by mechanical action. The devices can be combined to create self-powered, autonomous systems with memory, processing, and sensing capabilities.
Physicists have discovered a method to test string theory, a fundamental concept that attempts to reconcile quantum mechanics and general relativity. The breakthrough enables researchers to verify string theory's predictions about entangled quantum particles.
Scientists have discovered 20 new hormones and substances secreted by human fat cells, including six new proteins and dozens of previously known hormones. This finding could lead to a better understanding of the role of hormone-secreting fat cells in heart disease, diabetes, and other diseases.
Scientists have discovered a powerful new catalyst that can significantly boost fuel cell efficiency, paving the way for 'personalized energy systems' that generate clean electricity 24/7. This technology could free homes and businesses from dependence on traditional power sources.
Mohammed J. Zaki, a Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute professor, has been selected for the 2010 HP Labs Innovation Research Program for his groundbreaking work on graph patterns and link analysis. His research aims to uncover hidden connections between entities and data, enabling more comprehensive insights into complex phenomena.
The UK youth justice system disproportionately affects black and mixed-race youths through proactive policing methods. Researchers found that different policing styles led to varying arrest rates and outcomes for suspects, with more professional approaches resulting in fewer arrests of minority groups.
A new study reveals that resistant pathogens can trigger protective mechanisms in non-resistant neighbors, increasing overall colony survival. The team identified an enzyme called tryptophanase, which produces indole, a signaling molecule offering protection against antibiotics.
Researchers have developed a new nanotube technology that can generate sound waves for submarine sonar while also canceling out noise. This breakthrough could enhance underwater detection and stealth capabilities for military submarines.
A study comparing 31 commercial strawberry farms found that organic farms produced more flavorful and nutritious berries while leaving the soil healthier and more genetically diverse. The research team analyzed multiple sampling times on over two dozen fields, finding significant advantages of organic farming systems.
Research reveals that a small percentage of bacteria become highly resistant supermutants, while most survive without being resistant to antibiotics. These supermutants produce high levels of indole, a signaling molecule that promotes survival in harsh environments.
Studies show molecular imaging improves evaluation and treatment planning for various cancers, including thyroid cancer, lymphoma, and non-small cell lung cancer. The technique allows doctors to identify disease severity and extent, providing personalized care and adjusting treatment plans accordingly.
Spanish researchers found that reducing emergency response time from 25 to 15 minutes can cut the risk of death by one-third. The study, based on data from the Directorate General for Traffic, suggests that faster medical responses can save lives, especially on conventional roads where deaths increase with waiting time.
A recent study by scientists at the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center found that any two people share tens of thousands of identical T-cell receptors, challenging previous dogma. This discovery has significant implications for diagnosing and treating autoimmune diseases and cancer, as it suggests a common immune response to disease.
Researchers at Purdue University have developed a new type of pump for drug-delivery patches that uses arrays of microneedles to deliver a wider range of medications. The pump is activated by touch and can exert pressure to force drugs through the needles, with prototypes exerting pressures of up to 4.87 psi.
A new study by University of Cambridge researchers found that mindfulness training increased well-being in 155 adolescent boys. The four-week program improved feelings of happiness and contentment while also enhancing resilience and stress management skills. The benefits were particularly noticeable in students who struggled with anxiety.
The new HapMap adds more than 1 million SNPs, increasing resolution and helping researchers interpret genome studies. Non-African diversity is largely a subset of African diversity in the updated map.
A recent study published in Ecology found that elk are responsible for the decline of aspen in Yellowstone National Park, contradicting previous claims that wolves helped restore the ecosystem. Aspen stands exposed to elk browsing did not regenerate, even in areas considered risky for wolf predation.
Physicists at NIST have proposed an experiment to test gravity's behavior at very close scales, where electromagnetic forces dominate. The experiment involves suspending a glass bead in a laser beam 'bottle' to measure its motion relative to nearby objects with unprecedented sensitivity.
Teens who slept less than eight hours per weeknight ate higher proportions of fatty foods and snacks compared to those who slept eight hours or more. Shorter sleep duration was also associated with increased fat consumption and decreased carbohydrate intake, especially in girls.
Researchers at NIST have created an optical Schrödinger's cat by detecting three photons simultaneously, a state predicted in quantum optics for years. This achievement enhances prospects for manipulating light to improve measurement techniques and contribute to quantum computing and communications.
A recent study suggests that aggressively treating hypertension in African Americans with kidney disease can significantly decrease the number of patients who lose kidney function and require dialysis. The study found a 25% reduction in end-stage kidney disease among those with protein in their urine.
The University of Pennsylvania has received $7.5 million from the NSF to contribute to the development of Nebula, a network architecture that will support trustworthy cloud computing with a secure and robust next-generation Internet. The project aims to address security challenges in the emerging cloud computing model by developing new...
A new technique developed by Swedish and British researchers could help solve the problem of fake medicines in developing countries. The method uses nuclear magnetic resonance to identify authentic or counterfeit drugs, with a potential prototype ready for testing within two years.
Researchers reviewed data to assess immune responses to vaccines in HIV-infected children on HAART. Most children responded well to revaccination, but those with poorer immune systems and slower immune reconstitution may require additional doses to maintain protective immunity.
Scientists at TUM create a versatile biophysical model system to investigate complex systems and their properties. They report finding that when density crosses a threshold, actin filaments begin to move collectively, resembling flocks of birds or shoals of fish.
A double-dose regimen of clopidogrel was found to be more effective than the standard dose in reducing ischemic events and stent thrombosis in patients undergoing PCI for acute coronary syndromes. However, major bleeding increased by 41% with double-dosing.
The US is facing a potential supply crisis due to China's monopoly on 17 key elements essential for various industries, including computer hard drives and military weapons. To address this issue, plans are being developed to resume production at the Mountain Pass mine in southern California.
A new study applying employment contract theory to symbiosis finds that mutually beneficial relationships are maintained by simple self-interest, with partners benefiting from healthy hosts. The research discounts the idea that host species have evolved to promote symbiosis by promising rewards or threatening punishment.
Researchers at NIST have created a microminiaturized device that can measure complex viscoelasticity on sample sizes as small as a few nanoliters. This innovation enables biotechnologists to study minute quantities of materials with greater precision and accuracy.
The American Dietetic Association calls for systemic action to achieve food and nutrition security for all in the US. Interventions include increased funding for food assistance programs, nutrition education, and innovative economic support initiatives.
A team of researchers at the University of Oregon has made a groundbreaking discovery about stem cell division, finding that cortical proteins help position a cleavage furrow in the right location. This new mechanism has important implications for understanding how stem cells divide to produce unique cell types.
New research finds Hispanic middle school students are more likely to smoke, drink or use marijuana compared to peers from other races and ethnicities. Asian students, on the other hand, have the lowest rates of substance use, with personal factors like respect for parents and lower peer pressure playing a key role in their lower risk.
Passengers in developing countries face a 13 times higher risk of being killed in an air accident than those in First World countries. The study also reveals that even the most economically advanced developing-world countries have seven times the death risk per flight as First World countries.
Biologists at UC Riverside found that voluntary activity is a heritable trait that can be passed down genetically. Mice bred for high running ability produced high-running offspring, indicating the trait was inherited. The study suggests pharmaceutical drugs could be used to alter human activity levels.
Researchers at Boston University and Harvard discovered that bacteria produce indole to help vulnerable members survive antibiotic attacks, but this comes at the cost of their own well-being. This finding sheds new light on the complexity of bacterial strains and has significant implications for the medical community.
A study predicts that privatizing Sweden's government monopoly on alcohol sales will increase total consumption by 17-37%, leading to more deaths, assaults, and drunk driving offences. The changes may also reduce state revenue.
A study published in The Lancet reveals that giving newborn babies oral sucrose does not relieve pain, but rather changes their facial expressions. Researchers administered sucrose or sterile water to 59 infants before undergoing heel lances and found no significant difference in brain activity or spinal reflex withdrawal, but a lower ...
A pilot study in North Carolina found that mailing surveys instead of calling people on the phone yields higher response rates and more complete data. This method is being tested as a replacement for the current home telephone survey used by NOAA to determine which areas off the coast are overfished.
The Global Health Informatics Partnership (GHIP) aims to strengthen health informatics capacity in low-resource settings through collaborative initiatives. GHIP will build grassroots networks of health informatics advocates and professionals, enabling enhanced quality, safety, and effectiveness of healthcare services.
Dialysis patients face health problems including heart disease, vascular calcification, and muscle loss. A five-year study aims to improve their health by administering protein supplements and promoting intradialytic cycling during treatments.
A new molecular test has been shown to diagnose tuberculosis (TB) and detect drug-resistant bacteria with high sensitivity and specificity. The Xpert MTB/RIF TB test successfully identified 98% of confirmed TB cases and patients with rifampin-resistant bacteria in under two hours.
A recent study found that Mexican-origin women are more likely to be diagnosed with breast cancer at younger ages and have higher mortality rates than non-Hispanic white women. The research highlights the need for tailored prevention and education strategies to address these disparities.
Researchers have developed an improved tool for translating lizard body lengths to weights, enabling the evaluation of species health and ecosystem condition. The method, based on empirical evidence, can predict weights of lizards in a reliable and standardized manner.
The MU Healthy Lifestyle Initiative is helping communities make healthy living easier by increasing access to affordable, locally produced foods and safe physical activities. The initiative has seen positive changes in four initial counties, including schools and local farms participating in Farm to Cafeteria and farmers markets.
A study suggests that current treatment theories need to be expanded to account for a more dynamic quitting process. Successful quitters can achieve abstinence despite periods of smoking before the end of treatment. Continued cessation treatments without interruption may increase 'real-world' quit rates for motivated smokers.
Researchers analyzed text messages sent on September 11, 2001 to track emotional reactions. They found spiking anxiety in the morning and increasing anger throughout the day. The study suggests that anger dominated immediate reactions, which may explain consequences of the attacks.
A new technology developed by Stanford University allows scientists to experimentally capture the global snapshot of thousands of RNA molecules in a cell. This breakthrough advances understanding of RNA's complexity and function.
Despite evidence of ecosystem decline, global well-being shows improvement due to past food production increases and technological innovations. However, time lags and potential future effects on food production and personal security suggest that complacency is unwarranted.
A new study found that high-risk infants, those with a sibling with autism, showed infrequent gazing at caregivers when unprompted. Despite this, they demonstrated typical cause and effect learning skills. The study suggests that early exposure to simple cause and effect opportunities can aid in development.
Researchers found that black rice bran contains more anthocyanin antioxidants than blueberries, but with lower sugar content and higher fiber levels. The discovery suggests using black rice and its bran to boost the health value of various foods, such as breakfast cereals and baked goods.
Researchers found that ezlopitant, a compound known for suppressing alcohol craving, also decreases consumption of sweetened water in rodents, suggesting a link between addiction and compulsive eating. The study suggests that the NK1 receptor may be a target for addressing pathological food addiction.
A study published in PLoS ONE found that organic strawberry farms produced more flavorful and nutritious berries while leaving the soil healthier and more genetically diverse. The researchers also discovered that organic soils excelled in various key chemical and biological properties, including carbon sequestration and microbial biomass.
The University of Michigan Health System has received the first 1,250 DNA samples from the National Psoriasis Victor Henschel BioBank, the largest single collection of psoriasis DNA samples. The samples will be used to identify new genes that increase a person's risk factor for developing psoriasis and examine its connection with other...
A study published in Journal of Thoracic Oncology found that using the histoculture drug response assay to guide chemotherapy improves lung cancer survival and prognosis for patients who have undergone surgery. The use of adjuvant chemotherapy based on assay results showed a higher five-year survival rate compared to traditional treatm...
Hurricane Earl is producing heavy rainfall of over 50 mm/hr in Puerto Rico as a category four hurricane with wind speeds of about 115 knots. The storm is expected to maintain intensity for the next few days, impacting the Bahamas and eastern North Carolina.
Researchers developed a new infrared light probe to study lysosomes, which could help diagnose and treat tumors. The breakthrough allows for longer periods of imaging without limitations.
Two assays, GCR and RQPS, are used to investigate the genetic basis of cancer by measuring chromosomal rearrangements and gene copy numbers. These methods provide insight into pathways that suppress genomic instability in yeast and humans.
Researchers developed an algorithm using Microsoft Excel to identify genes useful in breast cancer classification. The 20-gene signature performed well on a validation dataset, outperforming other models in terms of accuracy.
Researchers have identified gamma-secretase activating protein (GSAP) as a key player in the formation of Alzheimer's disease-plaque beta-amyloid. Gleevec, a cancer drug, shows promise in targeting GSAP and reducing plaque production.
A study from the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine found that exposure to community violence is associated with increased asthma-related hospitalizations and emergency department visits. Younger adults were more likely to be exposed to violence and experience ED visits.
The latest phase of the HapMap Project reveals rare genetic variants distributed unevenly among populations, with some genes under selection in different populations. The study provides a framework for future genetic studies of variation and disease, highlighting the importance of examining diverse populations.
A team of researchers has developed a product that makes corn-derived plastics more heat-tolerant, allowing them to be used in hot-filling applications. The heat-deflection temperature modifier is fully biodegradable and up to 90% corn-based.
A study of 1,000 men found that those with chronic insomnia and a short sleep duration were four times more likely to die over a 14-year period. The results suggest that public health policy should prioritize the diagnosis and treatment of chronic insomnia in men.
A group of experts from UBC and Scripps Institution criticizes the MSC for failing to promote sustainable fishing practices, citing concerns over declining fish populations and high-impact methods like bottom trawling.
Researchers found that ancient cratonic roots have low water content beyond a certain depth, making them harder to deform or break up. This explains why these roots are resistant to destruction and preserved the oldest continents.
A study found a linear association between short sleep durations and psychological distress in young adults, with increased risks for those sleeping less than six hours per night. The risk of persistent distress was also higher, especially among those with extremely short sleep durations.
A recent study by Group Health Research Institute and the University of Washington found that 86% of patients agreed to share their de-identified genetic information in a federal database. The study suggests that researchers should ask for consent before sharing data, even if participants initially agree to it.
A new multi-center study of 854 children with Crohn's disease found a significantly lower 5-year cumulative risk of bowel surgery compared to previous reports. The study also showed an increased risk of surgery for children diagnosed between ages 13 and 16, but no link to early immunomodulator therapy.
A multidisciplinary project at the University of Leicester explores the role of historical diasporas in shaping Britain's population history. The study will examine cultural change mechanisms and legacy of early diasporas on the island.