Researchers have gained a deeper understanding of how nanowires form, thanks to a new theoretical model. The discovery reveals that the shape of catalyst particles controls the growth of nanowires and their crystal structure.
Dr. Hongwei Yu's lab will explore the factors controlling mucus overproduction and develop a treatment to inhibit alginate biofilm formation in CF patients. The grant aims to improve treatment of bacterial infections and enhance quality of life for CF patients.
Research by Geoff Hilton found that video production improved student understanding of scientific concepts, particularly when rehearsing for an audience. The study revealed that students who created videos showed better learning outcomes compared to those who produced written posters.
A study of nearly 2,700 adults with bipolar disorder found a genetic risk factor on chromosome 2 associated with increased attempts at self-harm. Genetic variants in the region were linked to a higher likelihood of attempting suicide, with those having two copies being almost three times as likely.
Researchers have invented fluorescent nano-particles that can continuously change colors to track molecules under a microscope. The color-changing particles, made with quantum dots, can be tailored to tag specific molecules and provide insights into biological processes.
A new approach to studying the brain uses a mathematical sequence to strengthen fMRI data, revealing how nerve cells represent information. This method measures changes in brain responses and corrects an important limitation of fMRI, making it more powerful than before.
A study by Joshua H. Miller analyzed the bones of Yellowstone's wildlife to understand population changes over time. The research found that native species populations have remained relatively stable, while others have expanded or contracted significantly.
A Canadian study of over 10,900 nursing home patients found that conventional antipsychotics, antidepressants, and benzodiazepines carried higher risks of death, femur fractures, and heart failure compared to atypical antipsychotics. The findings suggest a need for caution when prescribing these medications in this population.
Researchers found wolves rely on cattle for up to 45% of their summer diet in southwestern Alberta, shifting from wild prey in non-grazing seasons. Cattle make up a significant portion of wolf packs' scavenged feeding events, often located near bone yards and grazing areas.
A third of patients with resistant hypertension were found to have 'white coat' hypertension during ambulatory monitoring. The study suggests that those with true resistant hypertension show high blood pressure at work and during the night, but their cardiovascular outcomes are better than previously thought.
Scientists led by Syracuse University physicist Sheldon Stone observed the decay of a rare B meson particle, which may hold clues about the universe's matter-antimatter imbalance and the nature of fundamental forces. The discovery is part of ongoing efforts to understand why the universe evolved with more matter than antimatter.
Researchers at the University of Edinburgh have developed a tiny device that improves on existing forms of memory storage by using a mechanical arm to translate data into electrical signals. This allows for much faster operation and reduced energy consumption compared to conventional methods.
Researchers at Mount Sinai School of Medicine found that patients with Alzheimer's disease have lower glucose utilization in the brain, detectable approximately 20 years prior to symptoms. The study suggests that novel therapies could prevent the onset of Alzheimer's by addressing mitochondrial impairment.
A new study published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences reveals that brain growth in babies is linked to maternal investment, including duration of pregnancy and breastfeeding period. The research suggests that longer pregnancies and breastfeeding periods result in bigger brains for babies.
A new study identifies 44 high-risk counties with high food insecurity and prices, requiring an estimated $56 monthly boost per person to meet food needs. The study highlights disproportionate impacts of hunger on Latino and American Indian populations.
A new U-M study finds that nearly half of Latinas who speak little English express a great deal of worry about breast cancer recurrence. The study highlights the need for culturally sensitive counseling to help women understand their risk and manage anxiety.
The Lancet study finds that death rates in young people are now higher than in children across most high- and low-income countries, with injury being a major cause of death in young men. The authors highlight the lack of interventions and resources to tackle contemporary health problems faced by young people.
Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) affects millions worldwide, leading to post-thrombotic syndrome and pulmonary embolism. Interventional radiologists have developed clot-busting treatments that can dissolve large blood clots with minimal risk, offering new hope for patients.
Research reveals significant increases in ESRD incidence among patients with lupus nephritis, particularly in younger populations and African Americans. Despite advances in treatment, outcomes have not improved over a decade, highlighting the need for further research to identify modifiable risk factors and interventions.
A new model suggests that severing social interactions may not be the best approach to prevent disease spread during influenza outbreaks. The researchers found that a moderate increase in the price of interpersonal contact can lower the peak prevalence of the disease while increasing overall societal utility.
Researchers at Stevens Institute of Technology have developed a new laser technology that can transmit data through open space, enabling high-speed free space communications. The technology uses frequency modulation to reduce environmental interference and achieve speeds of up to 100 GHz.
A three-year project led by the University of Strathclyde aims to create portable devices that can analyze air samples from valuable items without touching them. The technology uses 'sniffing' artefacts to understand the composition and condition of objects, with potential applications for museums and collectors.
India has released its first updated tiger population numbers since 2007, estimating 1,706 tigers, an increase of 225 from the previous count. The figure includes an additional reserve in the Sundarbans, resulting in a corrected total of 1,636.
Researchers at Case Western Reserve University detected tiny amounts of Iodine 131 from Japan in Cleveland rainwater, with levels estimated as one-tenth that of natural background radiation. The isotope was found in rainwater collected on a campus roof and is being seen worldwide
A new study found that certain women with early-stage breast cancer experience excessive worrying about cancer recurrence, affecting medical care and quality of life. The research identified factors associated with high levels of worry, including younger age, employment, pain, fatigue, and radiation treatment.
A new study found that childhood psychological problems can have significant negative impacts on an individual's life, including reduced earnings and decreased chances of establishing long-lasting relationships. The study, which followed a group of British residents for 50 years, found that family income was approximately one-fourth lo...
A team of researchers has developed a new model that uses artificial neural networks to predict adverse drug reactions (ADRs) among 10,000 observations with 99.87% accuracy. The technology has the potential to save lives by identifying potential ADRs at an early stage of drug development and marketing.
A new study finds that a human respiratory virus has killed two mountain gorillas in Rwanda, confirming the risk of disease transmission between humans and animals. The virus, human metapneumovirus (HMPV), was detected in both gorillas, highlighting the need for increased conservation efforts to protect these endangered animals.
A new study by the University of Michigan demonstrates that brain regions activated during physical pain are also active in individuals experiencing intense social rejection. The research found a neural overlap between the two experiences, which may help explain why people describe feelings of social rejection as 'painful'.
The Russian boreal forest, the world's largest continuous expanse of forest, is experiencing a rapid shift in vegetation types as temperatures rise. This leads to an increase in evergreen conifers and a decline in larch trees, resulting in a northward progression of evergreens and a retreat of larch forests.
Scientists have developed a new method for high-resolution chemical imaging on the nanoscale, providing detailed information about molecular chemistry and interactions. This technique allows researchers to decipher the functionality of nanostructures with rich detail.
Linda Lu, a college student from Orlando, underwent a rare complete hand transplant at Emory University Hospital. The 19-hour surgery connected numerous structures including bones, tendons, nerves, and vessels to improve her quality of life.
Scientists have developed a new process that converts used motor oil into gasoline-like fuel using microwaves, offering an efficient and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional methods. The new method has excellent potential for commercial use and could help solve the problem of improper disposal of waste motor oil.
Children who witness or experience violence are more likely to engage in aggression against others, as they perceive violence as a common and acceptable way to resolve conflicts. This study found that witnessing or being victimized by violence increases aggression six months later.
Researchers have discovered how plant pathogens attack soybeans by reducing isoflavone production. Plants respond with a surge in isoflavone production, sparking a counterattack from the pathogen. This complex interaction may hold key to developing effective disease treatments and preventing crop losses.
Researchers found that demographic trends and statistical aberrations may skew statistics on a recent drop in black violent crime. Adjusting for the Hispanic effect revealed little overall change in the black percentage of violent crime, with slight increases in assault and homicide rates.
A study found that commercial laundry detergents and hand washes may contain up to 97% plant-based carbon, while some 'green' products contained significantly less. The research used radiocarbon dating to analyze the carbon content of products and revealed inconsistencies between product claims and actual composition.
A cross-cultural study found negative attitudes toward fat bodies in every location surveyed, revealing a rapid 'globalization of fat stigma' and a shift away from traditional fat-positive values. The study suggests that newer forms of media and public health campaigns may be driving this change.
Researchers at TU Delft have discovered that adding nanocrystals to solid electrolyte material can significantly increase the efficiency of fuel cells. The addition creates more space in the network, allowing protons to move freely and improving conductivity.
Researchers found that headache frequency and severity decreased substantially after bariatric surgery, with nearly half of patients experiencing at least a 50% reduction in migraine frequency. Weight loss also led to significant improvements in disability related to migraines.
Research suggests that nearly half of atrial fibrillation cases can be avoided by maintaining a normal blood pressure and healthy body weight, without smoking. The study found that high blood pressure was the strongest predictor of atrial fibrillation, accounting for over one-fifth of all cases.
Researchers at McGill University have discovered high concentrations of CO2 in deep-sea volcanic ash deposits, confirming explosive eruptions can occur. This finding has significant implications for the global carbon cycle, particularly at mid-ocean ridges.
Scientists have discovered stapled peptides that can target proteins involved in colon cancer and asthma. These peptides, which are not small molecules, inhibit activity of key proteins in the body, offering a new frontier in medicine.
A new scientific review of natural aphrodisiacs found that panax ginseng, saffron, and yohimbine improved human sexual function. The study also found that muira puama, maca root, and chocolate report increased sexual desire in people. However, their effects on sexual arousal and satisfaction are not supported.
Researchers found that Parkinson's sufferers exhibited work and health indications eight years before diagnosis, highlighting REM sleep behavior disorder as a potential early marker. The study suggests that intervening earlier could lead to improved treatment outcomes.
Scientists have developed the first practical artificial leaf that can mimic photosynthesis, converting sunlight and water into electricity. The device is made of inexpensive materials and works stably, with the potential to provide affordable power for homes in developing countries.
A study identified three critical steps to transform normal blood cells into leukaemic ones, each subverting a different cellular process. The researchers found that NPM1 mutation is a key event in acute myeloid leukaemia development and can cooperate with other mutations to cause the disease.
Scientists have discovered a way to extinguish fires using electrical waves, which could provide a new genre of fire-fighting devices. The technology could allow firefighters to put out fires remotely and save water, making it a promising solution for fighting fires in enclosed spaces.
A study by Massachusetts General Hospital and Brown University found that seizures begin with diverse neuronal activity, rather than synchronized activity. The researchers observed pre-seizure changes in neuronal activity and detected changes before seizures began in most patients.
Scientists have established a strong link between nicotine and diabetes complications, finding that concentrations of nicotine similar to those found in smoker's blood raise levels of HbA1c by up to 34%. This discovery may encourage patients with diabetes to quit smoking and has implications for the use of nicotine-replacement therapy.
Research on Diffuse Interstellar Bands (DIBs) in distant galaxies led to the discovery of Buckminsterfullerene, a new form of carbon that gave birth to nanotechnology. The study highlights the potential benefits of funding research with no obvious immediate use.
Scientists have discovered a previously unknown type of axonal degeneration called focal axonal degeneration (FAD), which is responsible for damage to nerve cells in multiple sclerosis. FAD can be reversed if recognized and treated early, suggesting a potential target for therapeutic intervention.
Scientists have developed a process to turn meat and bone meal, once destined for landfills due to a government ban, into partially biodegradable plastic. The new material is durable and requires no raw materials from oil or natural gas.
A new study by Joe Vinson ranks walnuts as the No. 1 nut in terms of healthful antioxidants, with nearly twice as much antioxidants as other commonly consumed nuts. Walnuts contain a combination of high-quality protein, vitamins, minerals, dietary fiber and are dairy- and gluten-free.
Researchers at Scripps Research Institute have made a groundbreaking discovery about the structure of the MRN DNA repair complex, revealing its powerful molecular motor workings. The finding has implications for designing non-toxic drugs to treat disorders such as cancer and cystic fibrosis.
The American Chemical Society symposium 'Hollywood Chemistry' highlighted the importance of scientists advising on the accuracy of science-based TV shows and movies. Chemist advisers like Donna Nelson from Breaking Bad discussed ways to improve scientific portrayal in media, while producers shared experiences and lessons learned from p...
The ACS National Meeting featured symposia on nanotechnology, bioactives, and regenerative medicine, including sessions on cell-based therapeutics and novel biomaterials for tissue engineering. The meeting also highlighted innovative approaches to address global energy demands through biotechnology.
The study provides geological evidence to support the idea that the first solid material in the Solar System was fragile and extremely porous. Researchers analyzed an asteroid fragment and found that it had been subjected to shocks in space, possibly during periods of turbulence, which compacted the rock into a harder state.
Scientists report on a new material called nano-bricks that combines montmorillonite clay with polymer materials to create an eco-friendly, transparent coating. The coating can improve the shelf life of foods and beverages by slowing gas loss and preventing spoilage, making it a potential alternative to current packaging materials.
Researchers at the University of Utah discovered that invisible infrared light can activate rat heart cells and toadfish inner-ear cells, sparking potential breakthroughs in cochlear implants for deafness. The study also raises possibilities for optical pacemakers that use infrared signals instead of electrical signals.