Researchers from NC State University have developed a simple, scalable method to align gold nanorods, which respond differently to light depending on their orientation. The team used electrospun polymer nano/microfibers to achieve long-range alignment of the nanorods at both nanoscale and larger length scales.
Scientists have created a new type of computer memory using nano-structured glass that can record and store data in a permanent form, revolutionizing medical imaging and material processing. The technology uses ultra-short laser pulses to imprint tiny dots in the glass, enabling precise imaging and manipulation.
College students with mobility impairments will explore a computer-generated simulation of Mammoth Cave, allowing them to meet degree requirements for field-based learning experiences. The project aims to create an interactive, virtual environment that is tailored to their abilities and provides a sense of realism.
A study found positive associations between fish oil supplements and cognitive functioning, as well as differences in brain structure between users and non-users. Fish oil use was associated with increased average brain volumes and smaller brain ventricular volumes compared to non-users.
Scientists have discovered that alligator fat can be converted into high-quality biodiesel, meeting official standards and rivaling soybean oil in composition. The alligator meat industry's waste product is now being explored as a non-food source of biodiesel fuel.
A U of T study found that upgrading to pressure-reduction mattresses can prevent 1,005 pressure ulcers and save $7.2 million in healthcare costs annually for elderly patients in Ontario's emergency departments. The cost of upgrading would be 30 cents per patient, resulting in a savings of $32 per patient.
A new angle-resolved photoemission technique allows researchers to probe a depth of up to 20 times beyond the previous limit, providing more detailed information about electron motion and bonding in materials. This breakthrough enables studies of new types of materials for various applications.
A new study developed a cost-effective way to identify patients at risk for Lynch syndrome, which could lead to earlier screenings and improved outcomes for colon and other cancers. The process uses two relatively inexpensive tests to eliminate possible carriers before full genome sequencing is required.
A novel intervention strategy aims to provide HIV testing, medical care, and prevention services to this growing population. The YMSM of Color Initiative focuses on outreach, access to medical care, and preventing HIV transmission.
Carbon nanotubes have been found to be reactive when a transition metal atom is present within the nanotube cavity, challenging previous scientific thinking. This discovery has significant implications for the development of new technologies, including gas storage devices and electronic components.
A Tufts University study found that analyzing bird feathers can detect corticosterone levels, a hormone linked to avian stress response. The technique provides a long-term snapshot of stress exposure and has implications for conservationists studying human impacts on wildlife.
MIT researchers found evidence that tiny aerobic organisms may have evolved to survive on extremely low levels of oxygen in oceanic 'oxygen oases.' Laboratory experiments with yeast suggest early ancestors could have thrived with minimal O2, reconciling a debate over early Earth's atmosphere.
A team of researchers discovered that a single extracellular protein, ECMP-67, drives the formation of calcite in soft corals. This finding allows for understanding how these organisms thrive in environments where other species cannot survive.
Research finds speaking and understanding speech use same areas of the brain, with no involvement of motor regions when listening, contradicting previous assumptions. The study suggests that language-related problems may not always be independent, and offers new avenues for treatment.
Ruth Carrico, an associate professor at the University of Louisville, has been named one of 21 RWJF Executive Nurse Fellows. The program aims to enhance nurse leaders' effectiveness in improving the US healthcare system, with a focus on addressing health care-associated infections.
A team of researchers at UConn has developed a seedless variety of the invasive plant Euonymus alatus, known as 'burning bush', which retains its attractive foliage but eliminates its ability to spread. This breakthrough could help restore the plant's popularity in commercial markets and mitigate its environmental impact.
Scientists have successfully observed a tsunami using high-frequency radar, which can detect changes in ocean currents and track wave movement. This innovation could lead to improved early warning systems for coastal regions like Southeast Asia and the East Coast.
Zinc lozenges have been found to reduce the duration of common cold episodes by an average of 42% for trials using zinc acetate in high doses. However, low-dose zinc lozenges showed no effect on cold duration.
A study analyzing nearly 500,000 individuals found that the risk of bladder cancer among smokers is significantly higher than reported in previous studies. The risk for women smokers was comparable to men's, and former smokers had a 2.2 times increased risk, while current smokers faced about 4 times higher risk relative to never smokers.
A recent study found that pegloticase significantly reduces plasma uric acid levels and improves physical function and quality of life in patients with severe, chronic gout. The medication was effective in achieving the primary outcome in approximately 42% of patients, with significant improvements also seen in patient-reported pain.
A study published in PLOS Genetics found that thousands of genes affect plant adaptation to environmental challenges. The researchers used a genomewide association mapping approach to identify key genes involved in defense metabolism, revealing significant influences from both internal growth and external environments.
A new study has found that soft corals, once believed to be minor contributors to coral reef structure, are actually a crucial component of the ecosystem. Soft coral skeletal elements called sclerites were discovered to make up massive parts of reefs in the South China Sea.
A new study by the National Cancer Institute finds that cigarette smoking is responsible for about half of female bladder cancer cases, similar to the proportion found in men. The risk is higher than previously reported and may be due to changes in cigarette composition or smoking habits over the years.
The new device, called Sea-PAP, is designed to be an affordable and simple Bubble Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (B-CPAP) device that provides breathing support to premature infants. Sea-PAP has the potential to save thousands of infant lives worldwide by reducing respiratory distress.
Researchers at MIT have created a way to make microparticles of nearly any shape using temperature-sensitive materials, allowing for precise placement of drugs and cells. This technique enables the creation of artificial tissues that mimic natural tissue structures.
The article critically examines the current challenges to the field of health policy and systems research (HPSR), emphasizing the need for exploratory and explanatory types of research. The authors call for greater attention to capacity building in low- and middle-income countries, supporting local policy development and health systems...
A defective gene can contribute to the onset of rheumatoid arthritis by disrupting inflammatory responses, and a new mouse model reveals this connection. Researchers identified A20 as a key player in controlling inflammation, suggesting it may be a target for developing new treatments.
The number of hospitalizations for skin and soft-tissue infections, primarily caused by community-acquired Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), has more than doubled since 2000. Early treatment and recognition are crucial to preventing hospitalization.
Research shows antipsychotics are more effective than mood stabilisers in tackling acute mania. Haloperidol, olanzapine, and risperidone were ranked most effective antimanic drugs, with haloperidol outperforming other options.
A new study by NIH-funded researchers found that a prime-boost mix of injected or spray flu vaccine provides the broadest immune response in young children. The study also found that nasal spray vaccine stimulates a wide array of immune T cells, which may be important for protection against diverse flu strains.
A recent study published in PLOS Medicine found that reducing financial assistance for Medicare patients could result in an additional 18,000 patients discontinuing one or more prescriptions annually. The lack of funding led to a decrease in drug switching despite government advice to switch to generic or low-cost drugs.
Scientists create a method for growing straight carbon nanofibers on clear substrate, enabling novel biomedical research tools and applications. The technique relies on ions to ensure the nanofibers are straight.
Scientists applied theoretical morphology techniques to study terpenes in plants, discovering a disparity between predicted and actual abundances. They found that nature favors rarer, harder-to-synthesize forms of these chemicals, which could lead to new effective drugs.
A new process has been developed to identify patients at risk of Lynch syndrome, a genetic mutation that increases cancer risk. The process uses two inexpensive tests to eliminate possible carriers before full genome sequencing, significantly reducing costs and improving accuracy.
Researchers have discovered a new mechanism controlling aging in white blood cells, opening up the possibility of temporary boosting of the immune systems of older people. This could help fight off infections and improve quality of life for older individuals.
Researchers found a protein in mitochondria involved in energy regulation decreases with age, but is increased by losartan treatment, leading to lowered blood pressure and cellular energy usage. This discovery may lead to new treatments for mitochondrial-specific diseases like diabetes, Parkinson's disease, and frailty.
A new study explores how cognitive strategies and abilities increase 'situation-specific self-confidence,' a quality that enhances exercise adherence. Participants who improved their executive function skills, such as multitasking and goal-setting, were more likely to stick with an exercise program.
The Pneumonia Etiology Research for Child Health (PERCH) study aims to systematically look at current and likely future causes of childhood pneumonia in seven countries. The study will inform global efforts against pneumonia, the world's biggest killer of young children.
The Gemini-Scout Mine Rescue Robot is equipped with gas sensors, a thermal camera, and can haul food, air packs, and medicine to trapped miners. It can navigate through water, over boulders, and rubble piles ahead of rescuers, providing critical information to aid rescue efforts.
Rush researchers identified a molecule, an antibody, in the bloodstream of infertile women that could be used to screen for high-risk individuals or those with early-stage ovarian cancer. Significant levels of mesothelin antibodies were found in women with premature ovarian failure and ovulatory dysfunction.
Researchers found that human embryonic stem cell-derived cells bear striking differences from human tissue cells in gene expression, functionality, and appearance. The cells' developmental maturity is also a concern, particularly for transplantation and disease modeling, as they may not mature to the same levels as adult cells.
A Baylor University study found that stress created by incivility at work affects not only the employee but also their family and partner's workplace. The study suggests that organizations must address co-worker rudeness to prevent its impact on employees' lives.
A study using mice reveals how a specific gene variant could contribute to attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). The researchers found that the D4.7 variant of the dopamine D4 receptor subtype was not able to interact with another brain region in a way that reduces glutamate release, leading to symptoms of ADHD.
A study published in Radiology found that pericardial fat is more strongly related to coronary artery plaque than body mass index or waist circumference. This association suggests that fat around the heart may be an early indicator of coronary disease, particularly in overweight individuals.
A study by Columbia Business School researchers finds that commercial open source software results in high-quality products, benefiting both consumers and producers. The model identified spillover effects of the market on social welfare, despite the free-riding inherent in the industry.
Tiny alterations in genes can act as magnets for biochemical tags, switching off anti-cancer genes and increasing cancer susceptibility. The study found subtle changes near the start of genes attract methylation, causing cancer development in families without spelling mistakes.
A new study tracked wild black bears' heart rates throughout the year, revealing that they experience extreme variations in heart rate during hibernation. Pregnant bears showed increased heart rates as their pregnancy progressed, while mothers exhibited reduced movement after giving birth to prevent accidental harm to their cubs.
Scientists have identified a natural protection mechanism in some brain nerve cells during stroke, which could be used to develop treatments to protect other nerve cell types. The research found that one type of nerve cell, the CA3 cell, is more resistant to stroke-induced damage and possesses a mechanism for reducing its susceptibility.
Research shows people with PTSD struggle to identify specific emotions, such as fear and sadness, from facial cues. The study found that war veterans with PTSD were less able to recognize these emotions compared to healthy subjects.
Researchers found that male rock ptarmigans can run up to 50% faster than females due to superior physiology, enabling them to defend larger territories and successfully breed. This study highlights the importance of considering physiological factors in understanding animal behavior and breeding success.
A new DNA construction software, j5, streamlines the process by identifying cost-effective strategies and automating protocols. This enables researchers to focus on primary interests while reducing labor-intensive tasks.
Researchers discovered a critical component in plant cell growth, revealing how microtubules are organized into scaffolds. The CLASP protein plays a key role, modulating geometric constraints and influencing cell division.
Abnormalities in breast cancer stem cells found in some cancers can lead to tumor development and recurrence, according to a recent study published by OHSU Knight Cancer Institute researchers. The study suggests that these mutated cells are resistant to chemotherapy and radiation, allowing the disease to recur.
Maurice Godfrey received a $10,000 grant from ASHG to develop an electronic version of a successful print-based educational game teaching about genetics, medicine, and ethics. The project aims to improve genetics education for students from grades 7-20.
A new study by Arizona State University researchers found that women often underestimate the weight of their friends' and family members' opinions on their weight. Despite having supportive loved ones, women are vulnerable to fat stigma due to pervasive mass media messages.
A new computational model realistically simulates ion channel function, providing insight into bacterial channels that cause deadly infections and informing potential drug design against them. The study focuses on PorB, a channel formed by Neisseria meningitidis, which is linked to antibiotic resistance.
A study found a significant increase in use of radioactive iodine after surgery for well-differentiated thyroid cancer, with variation in practice patterns among hospitals. The use was more common in younger patients without comorbidities and those with lower tumor stages.
Researchers report significant and sustained clinical improvements in 42% of patients with chronic gout resistant to conventional therapies. Pegloticase lowers uric acid levels and resolves painful swollen joint nodules, improving physical function and quality of life.
UCLA researchers have developed a plasmonic-enhanced polymer tandem solar cell that improves power conversion efficiency from 5.22% to 6.24%, thanks to the incorporation of gold nanoparticles. The enhancement effect is attained through local near-field enhancement, showing great potential for future development.
Researchers have developed a new method to diagnose tuberculosis (TB) that is faster and cheaper than current methods. The method uses microcalorimeters to detect the growth of Mycobacterium tuberculosis bacteria, allowing for rapid diagnosis and antibiotic susceptibility testing.