Joanna Fowler, a senior chemist at Brookhaven Lab, has been chosen to receive the Distinguished Women in Chemistry/Chemical Engineering Award. Her research focuses on developing radiotracers to measure changes in brain circuits disrupted by drug addiction and other brain diseases.
A new mathematical model integrates key factors influencing sympatric speciation, finding strong mate choice and resource variety more important than competition. This approach generates insights into biological diversity, suggesting that speciation can occur under ideal conditions.
A new study shows that globally, animal-pollinated crops contain a majority of dietary lipids, vitamins A, C, and E, and minerals like calcium and iron. Without pollinators, up to 40% of essential nutrients could be lost.
Researchers have successfully demonstrated a quantum logic gate acting on four particles of light, enabling new approaches to quantum technologies. The device has the potential to improve secure communication and precision measurement, paving the way for more efficient computers and innovative applications.
A 10-year longitudinal study found that adolescents who dieted in early adolescence were at increased risk of continuing these behaviors in young adulthood. The study's findings emphasize the importance of addressing disordered eating behaviors from an early age to prevent obesity and related health issues.
The MINOS experiment at Fermilab recorded 62 electron neutrino-like events, constraining the transformation of muon neutrinos into electron neutrinos to a narrow range. This result is consistent with and improves upon previous measurements, potentially shedding light on the universe's matter-antimatter imbalance.
A new anti-inflammatory drug has been shown to improve kidney function in patients with type 2 diabetes and chronic kidney disease. The study found significant increases in estimated glomerular filtration rates at weeks 24 and 52, with continued benefits after discontinuation.
Environmental anthropologist Kenny Broad and underwater photographer Wes Skiles were named Explorers of the Year for their work documenting Blue Holes in the Bahamas. Musician Jack Johnson received the Arts Ambassador for the Environment Award, while IBM was recognized for its research partnership with National Geographic.
Researchers have developed a novel waveplate technology inspired by the peacock mantis shrimp's eye, which can improve high-definition CD, DVD, and holographic technology. The new waveplates offer broader polarized light capabilities over the entire visual spectrum.
A Lithuanian company developed a technique that has cleaned over 22,000 tons of soil using non-genetically-modified bacteria, transforming contaminated soil into usable land for plant growth. The natural process eliminates the need for chemicals or genetically-modified technologies.
Tropical Storm Haima is expected to bring heavy rains to Vietnam this weekend. The storm has regained minimal tropical storm status with powerful thunderstorms south of its center, moving west through the Gulf of Tonkin in the South China Sea.
A recent aerial survey of northern Botswana shows a significant decline in wildlife populations, with wildebeest populations plummeting by almost 90% over the past 15 years. Habitat fragmentation, drought effects, human encroachment, and poaching are major contributing factors to this decline.
Researchers at Buck Institute discover lithium profoundly prevents brain damage associated with Parkinson's disease in a mouse model. The study's findings suggest that lithium could be an effective treatment for PD patients at subclinical levels, avoiding side effects.
Childhood obesity is a growing threat to child and adult health, according to former US Surgeon General David Satcher. Dr. Satcher proposes five target areas for investment to improve the health of children and adults, and identifies key factors contributing to childhood obesity.
A study using local newspapers helps identify coastal flood events in the Solent region of southern England. The research found a strong relationship between high sea levels and floods, highlighting vulnerable areas such as Portsmouth and Southampton.
Tropical Storm Meari is a stronger storm with maximum sustained winds near 55 knots, expected to make landfall in southwestern North Korea on June 26. Forecasters anticipate rough surf and heavy rainfall along the Yellow Sea as Meari tracks through.
A Stanford study reveals that tobacco companies increase advertising and lower sale prices of menthol cigarettes in neighborhoods near California high schools with larger populations of African-American students. This 'predatory' marketing pattern aims to lure young African Americans into becoming smokers.
Dr. Gadi V.P. Reddy has received a $188,000 grant from the USDA-NIFA Pest Management Alternatives Program to develop an ecologically sound and cost-effective Integrated Pest Management (IPM) program for tomato farmers in the region.
A new study by UCLA neurophysicists found that brain rhythms associated with learning grow stronger as running speed increases. The research team monitored gamma rhythms in mice brains using specialized microelectrodes and discovered a link between the strength of these rhythms and movement.
A large, long-term study confirms that medications with anticholinergic activity cause cognitive impairment. The research also identifies a possible link between these drugs and risk of death.
The rotavirus vaccine has dramatically decreased hospitalization rates for gastroenteritis among infants and older children. In the US, vaccination led to a 87-96% reduction in rotavirus hospitalizations among eligible children between 6 months and 24 months.
Mayo Clinic researchers are developing an artificial pancreas that will deliver insulin automatically and with individualized precision, reducing the need for daily insulin dosing and finger pricks. The system includes a blood sugar monitor, automatic insulin pump, activity monitors, and a central processing unit.
Researchers at Ohio State University have discovered a potential new radiation treatment that uses heavy metals and low-energy electrons to target cancer tumors. The method, called Resonant Nano-Plasma Theranostics (RNPT), has the potential to reduce radiation exposure to healthy tissue.
Researchers at Boston University have found four new genetic variants associated with a higher risk of systemic lupus erythematosus (lupus) in African American women. The study, based on data from the Black Women's Health Study, reveals that these genetic factors may be shared among women of different genetic ancestries.
Researchers have discovered a single communication system that decides the fate of stem cells, paving the way for new stem cell therapies with fewer side effects. The Nodal/Activin pathway can specify a wide range of eventual cell types, offering a major step forward for personalized medicine.
Research finds that adolescents and young adults with type 1 diabetes have increased risk of heart attack and stroke due to atherosclerosis in the carotid arteries. The study aims to improve glycemic control and reduce cardiovascular risk factors to prevent cardiovascular disease.
Researchers from UGA found a significant relationship between autumn snow extent in specific regions of Eurasia and temperatures across North America during the subsequent winter. Years with extensive autumn snow in northwest Eurasia were associated with winter temperatures seven degrees lower near the center of North America.
A new breast cancer risk model quantifies the impact of modifiable lifestyle factors on absolute breast cancer risk. The study predicts a 1.6% to 4.1% reduction in absolute risk among women aged 65, with higher reductions seen among those with positive family history or more non-modifiable risk factors.
Researchers discovered two distinct populations of coconuts, indicating separate cultivation origins in the Pacific and Indian Ocean basins. The study also found evidence of prehistoric trade routes and the colonization of the Americas through coconut genetics.
Barbara E. Corkey, PhD, is being honored by the American Diabetes Association for her 35-year contributions to understanding diabetes and its treatment. Her work has shown that oscillations in beta cell Ca2+ fluxes influence insulin secretion and that elevated glucose and lipids cause tissue malfunction in diabetes.
Researchers identify dozens of rare genetic variants in ion channel genes associated with epilepsy, as well as nearly identical variations in healthy individuals. The study suggests that a combination of altered channels can mask individual defects, leading to a complex interplay between gene variants and the development of epilepsy.
A systematic review of community health worker programs found significant increases in mammography screening rates among medically underserved women. The programs were most effective in urban and medical settings, with racial-ethnic parity strengthening the beneficial effect.
Researchers have successfully produced synthetic collagen in maize with similar levels of proline hydroxylation to human collagen. This breakthrough enables the production of a protein with human-like modifications, making it suitable for various applications in reconstructive and cosmetic surgery, as well as the food industry.
The NASA Aqua satellite captured an infrared image of Tropical Storm Meari and Tropical Depression Haima on June 22. The image showed large areas of strong thunderstorms and convection, indicating rainfall rates of up to 2 inches per hour in both storms.
The UH Cancer Center has received a significant gift to accelerate mesothelioma research, with scientists working on developing new therapies to prevent and treat the disease. Recent breakthroughs have shed light on potential causes, including exposure to erionite particles found in airborne asbestos.
Researchers found smaller osmolyte molecules are more effective at protecting protein structures than larger ones, which could lead to better storage techniques for human reproductive tissue used in IVF and other materials.
A study published in the Journal of Biological Chemistry reveals that a protein called globin E plays a crucial role in supplying oxygen to the avian retina. This finding helps explain how birds evolved large eyes without a dense network of ocular capillaries, and sheds light on the unique properties of the avian eye.
Seven faculty teams will receive grants to tackle various environmental challenges, including coral reefs and groundwater supply. The projects aim to promote global sustainability through interdisciplinary research.
Researchers at Boston University School of Medicine have identified a possible new approach to treating myelofibrosis by inhibiting an enzyme that forms scar tissue in the bone marrow. The study found that inhibiting this enzyme resulted in a significant decrease in the burden of myelofibrosis, offering a potential new avenue for treat...
Researchers at Ohio State University have developed a smartphone app called eShadow that uses nearby wireless networks to alert users of a friend's presence. The software enables meaningful face-to-face conversations and builds bridges between strangers who share similar interests, providing a complement to online social networks.
A Johns Hopkins-led research study found that patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) who use long-term inhaled corticosteroids have a 27% increased risk of bone fractures. This increased risk is particularly concerning for women, who are already at a higher fracture risk than men.
Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center have identified compounds that inhibit a signaling pathway in Huntington's disease, a fatal genetic disorder. The quinazoline-derived compounds block the store-operated calcium entry signaling pathway, potentially slowing the progression of degenerative nerve disorders.
A new iPhone application, iTrem, has been developed to track hand and arm tremors in patients with Parkinson's disease. The app uses the iPhone's accelerometer to collect data, which can be used by physicians to remotely monitor patient disability and treatment response.
Researchers identify top biotic constraints affecting soybean production, including aphids, rust, nematodes, and exotic pathogen red leaf blotch. Genetic resources, biosecurity measures, and resistant cultivars are needed to combat these threats.
Researchers found that Daphnia's defense against predators makes it more vulnerable to a virulent yeast parasite, Metschnikowia. The study suggests that increasing predator densities may not be the best solution to control disease as it can lead to increased susceptibility to other parasites.
Ovenbirds and veeries use chipmunk calls to identify safe nesting spots, avoiding areas with high predator activity. By eavesdropping on chipmunk vocalisations, birds can select optimal locations for their nests, reducing the risk of predation.
A study found that service learning in a university-level horticulture course increased students' understanding of course material and their opinions on community involvement. Alumni reported improved confidence and awareness after the experience, highlighting its benefits for future careers.
A new study led by Michigan State University criminologist Thomas Holt reveals that peer influence and low self-control are major factors driving juvenile cybercrime such as hacking and online bullying. Parents are encouraged to be more proactive with their kids, discussing ethical dilemmas and using parental-control software.
Researchers have discovered a mechanism by which stress induces epigenetic changes in Drosophila that can be inherited across generations. The study found that the transcription factor dATF-2 plays a key role in this process, leading to changes in chromatin structure and gene expression.
Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center found that ghrelin, the 'hunger hormone', triggers comfort food cravings in stressed mice, leading to overeating and increased body weight. The study suggests that ghrelin signaling plays a crucial role in stress-induced food-reward behaviors.
The Genesis mission has provided the first oxygen and nitrogen isotopic measurements of the Sun, showing significant differences from those on Earth. These results suggest that the solar system was formed through a complex process, with different astrophysical mechanisms contributing to the composition of space dust.
A study published in HortScience found that 86 indoor plant species can remove formaldehyde from the air, with ferns proving to be the most effective. The top-performing species, including the Japanese royal fern, showed a significant ability to neutralize formaldehyde and improve indoor air quality.
A holistic approach to treating cancer pain that addresses psychological, social, and spiritual needs can enhance treatment outcomes and ease suffering. Research suggests integrating palliative care from diagnosis can improve quality of life, reduce depression, and increase survival time for lung cancer patients.
A new model predicts which cyanobacterial genes are central to capturing energy from sunlight and other critical processes. The model identifies key bottleneck genes that control the expression of essential proteins.
Researchers explore potential causes of widespread gullying on the southeastern Tibetan Plateau, find evidence of late Quaternary development in river valleys of the Karakoram Himalaya range. Paleovalley morphology studies reveal insights into climate and tectonic controls on sedimentation.
A new study by UW-Madison sleep researchers found that fruit flies with enriched learning environments need more sleep due to increased synaptic growth. The study suggests that sleep is driven by the need to reduce brain energy needs, providing structural evidence for the theory of synaptic homeostasis.
A two-year study by Dalhousie University researchers reveals the California Current is a crucial habitat for marine predators like tunas, sharks, and sea turtles. The study found that these species migrate predictably to the region when it warms and cools.
A recent study found that modern fish communities in coastal Kenya have significantly different life histories compared to ancient Swahili refuse heaps. This shift is attributed to overfishing, which has reduced larger species and increased smaller species with shorter life spans.
The Department of Energy has won 36 R&D100 awards for its groundbreaking projects in energy, environment and national security. These projects include advanced ceramic film capacitors, enhanced renewable methane production systems and photoacoustic spectroscopy systems for remote detection of explosives.
Researchers have found that HDL cholesterol from patients with coronary artery disease has impaired anti-inflammatory effects on blood vessel-lining cells and fails to stimulate repair of the blood vessel lining. This study highlights the importance of considering not just abundance but also biological functions of HDL in preventing CAD.