Research found that children with chronic health conditions, including diabetes, epilepsy, and mental illness, were more likely to experience physical abuse. The study also showed that those born outside Sweden or living in low-income families faced a higher risk of physical abuse.
Researchers at EPFL developed a brain-computer interface that learns to recognize users' mental intentions, allowing for multitasking and reducing fatigue. The system uses statistical analysis and probability theory to distinguish between commands and enable users to control devices over longer periods.
Researchers have developed a new strategy to improve microscopy by following the astronomers' guide star technique, allowing for sharper images of biological samples. This method uses adaptive optics and two-photon fluorescence microscopy to correct for light waves hitting cells in different directions.
Researchers from six UK universities are studying how daily radiation exposure damages graphite blocks in nuclear power reactors. The study aims to help nuclear utility companies plan for the future and improve manufacturing processes.
Two projects will test BCI technology in patients with spinal cord injuries, allowing them to control computer cursors and prosthetic limbs using their thoughts. The projects aim to gain a better understanding of how to train and motivate patients who will benefit from BCI technology.
A study by Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution reveals that Atlantic tomcod have developed a genetic resistance to PCBs, allowing them to thrive in the polluted Hudson River. The researchers identified a single genetic receptor responsible for this adaptation, which may also impact their ability to break down other harmful chemicals.
Researchers have successfully cloned plants as seeds, paving the way for hybrid crop plants that can breed true. The breakthrough uses a process called apomixis, where eggs and sperm are haploid, allowing diploid eggs to be produced without sexual recombination.
Three Canadian researchers present innovative findings on the cognitive benefits of bilingualism, the early stages of language acquisition, and the neurological basis of stuttering. Their work has significant implications for our understanding of human brain function and development.
Two studies investigate the role of bone marrow stem cells in diabetic therapy and islet cell regeneration, offering new therapeutic possibilities. Researchers also focus on improving pancreatic islet culture and preservation techniques to prolong the survival and functionality of islet cells in vitro.
The world's first skyscraper, discovered in ancient Jericho, was likely built as an earthly element connecting residents with the heavenly element of the setting sun. Researchers propose that its construction was related to primeval fears and cosmological beliefs.
Researchers developed a new approach to predict which flu strain will be prevalent in a given year by tracking pairs of genetic changes. This method offers insights into epistasis, where mutations interact with each other to affect the virus's fitness. By analyzing these interactions, scientists can gain early warnings of emerging muta...
Former Tropical Storm Carlos continues to dump heavy rainfall on Australia's Northern Territory after moving inland. The storm's powerful thunderstorms and cold cloud tops are causing flooding and strong winds.
A new study suggests that improved Social Security benefits lead to lower mortality rates and increased life expectancy among people over 65. The researchers found that this demographic benefited most from the changes, with a 50% increase in decline rates following the introduction of Social Security in 1940.
Scientists have made progress in understanding the role of p63 in eliminating damaged egg cells before they mature. A study found that a specific form of p63, TAp63a, is activated by DNA damage and triggers cell death.
Researchers found that functional electrical stimulation (FES) therapy worked better than conventional occupational therapy alone to increase patients' ability to pick up and hold objects. FES therapy also improved daily activities such as dressing and eating, with significant implications for quality of life and independence.
The team built a functioning anti-laser called a coherent perfect absorber (CPA), which absorbs 99.4% of incoming light and could pave the way for novel technologies in optical computing and radiology.
The 2010 International Science and Engineering Visualization Challenge recognized winners for their visually striking and informative entries, including a video tracking trash disposal and a poster on fungi's complex uses. The challenge honors scientists who use visual media to promote understanding of scientific research.
A new study published in Bioelectromagnetics suggests that radio frequency exposure from cell phones does not increase the risk of developing brain cancers. The researchers found no statistically significant change in brain cancer incidence rates between 1998 and 2007, contradicting some previous studies.
A study found that a population of Hudson River fish evolved rapidly in response to PCB pollution, with a single gene responsible for their ability to withstand the toxic chemicals. The study's findings suggest that this genetic adaptation allowed the fish to survive lethal heart defects triggered by PCBs.
A new study at UC Davis found that eating a high-fat meal can trigger inflammation in blood vessels, particularly in individuals with waist sizes over 32 inches and high triglyceride levels. This inflammation can lead to atherosclerosis and increase the risk of heart disease.
A study published in Environmental Health Perspectives found that people living in coastal communities with and without direct oil exposure showed clinically significant levels of depression and anxiety. Those with income loss due to the spill had higher rates of depression and were less resilient.
A new commentary by four experts cautions against inflated expectations in genomics research, highlighting the need for balance and realism. They recommend reevaluating funding priorities, fostering statistical rigor, and developing high-quality evidence before integrating genomic ideas into medical practice.
Tropical Storm Bingiza is maintaining tropical storm intensity with heavy rainfall over the Mozambique Channel, preparing for its second landfall in Madagascar. The storm has weakened from a powerful category 3 cyclone to tropical storm force winds.
Patients who underwent simultaneous bilateral knee replacement had a lower risk of major joint infection and mechanical malfunction compared to those with staged procedures. However, they also experienced higher rates of heart attacks and pulmonary embolisms.
A new international study found that classic selective sweeps may have played a smaller role in human evolution than thought. Researchers analyzed nearly 200 human genomes and found that smaller changes in multiple genes may have been the primary driver of human adaptation.
A study by researchers at the University of Granada found that preterm mothers' milk has lower coenzyme Q10 concentrations, a key antioxidant. The results suggest that breast milk from term mothers has higher levels of this essential nutrient compared to preterm mothers.
Research suggests that eyewitness identifications and expert testimony are often unreliable due to bias. Alternative methods like the PEACE model can reduce false confessions. Juries are largely effective at considering evidence, despite implicit biases.
Researchers found a richer bacterial community in asthmatic patients' airways compared to healthy individuals, with increased diversity and specific organisms correlated with sensitivity. The study suggests new treatment approaches for asthma and may shed light on the role of microbiota in other diseases.
Research at University of California, San Diego School of Medicine identifies regulatory T cells as primary source of RANKL protein, accelerating breast cancer spread. Interfering with RANKL interaction with cancer cells may block tumor progression, offering potential target for drug therapy.
Dr. Joel D. Oppenheim of New York University School of Medicine has been honored with the 2010 AAAS Lifetime Mentor Award for his efforts to increase diversity in the Ph.D. biomedical workforce. He has successfully recruited and supported students from underrepresented backgrounds, transforming institutional demographics.
Researchers aim to identify all possible shapes across three, four, and five dimensions, linking them like the periodic table links chemical elements. They expect to develop a better understanding of geometric properties and relationships between shapes.
Researchers found that inhaling red mud disaster dust is unlikely to cause serious health problems, but may lead to irritation and coughing. The study suggests that the large size of the particles makes them less likely to be inhaled deeply into the lungs.
A study by UC Riverside researchers found that Asian Americans are perceived as less ideal leaders than Caucasian Americans, despite their higher education and competence. The study suggests that racial biases play a significant role in leadership perceptions.
The AAAS has awarded four researchers with the Joshua E. Neimark Memorial Travel Assistance Award to study stem cell transplantation, sustainable growth, women in academia, and conservation science. The winners will attend the 2011 Annual Meeting of the American Association for the Advancement of Science.
A study by St. Michael's Hospital found that one in five homeless people with tuberculosis die within a year of diagnosis, emphasizing the need for enhanced prevention and treatment strategies.
Dr. Joseph M. DeSimone has mentored at least nine African American students, one Hispanic American student, and 24 women through the completion of their Ph.D. degrees in chemistry. He is being honored with the AAAS Mentor Award for his efforts to advance diversity in doctoral-level chemists entering the workforce.
Researchers develop three-step approach to identify clusters of like-minded bloggers using social annotations. The method calculates similarities between bloggers based on their blog posts' keywords and ratings.
Tropical Storms Carlos and Dianne are bringing heavy rainfall and strong winds to Western and Northern Australia, respectively. The storms' cloud tops have reached temperatures as low as -52C, indicating strong convection.
A mega-analysis of brain imaging data found that individuals with bipolar disorder who took lithium had increased hippocampal and amygdala volumes compared to those not taking the medication. Lithium treatment also restored cerebral volume reductions associated with longer illness duration.
Researchers found that blue-green algae may produce an estrogen-like compound, disrupting reproductive hormones and affecting fish, plants, and human health. Exposure to the algal cells induced a response consistent with estrogen exposure in larval fish.
Researchers from the Walter and Eliza Hall Institute have identified the Erg gene as crucial for blood stem cells' ability to self-renew. This discovery holds promise for developing new therapies using blood stem cells for tissue repair, transplantation, and other applications.
A Michigan State University-led study identified critical events that prompt students to consider quitting college, including depression, loss of financial aid, and unexpected bad grades. The research aims to help colleges identify at-risk students and provide targeted support to prevent college withdrawal.
Researchers at the University of Missouri have discovered biomarkers in mouse feces that can predict inflammation-associated colon cancer. This breakthrough could lead to a new method for detecting early-stage colon cancer in humans, potentially eliminating the need for colonoscopies.
Dr. Loftus's research has had a profound impact on the administration of justice in the US and abroad, highlighting the fragility and malleability of human memories. Her work has led to the dismissal of murder charges based on repressed memories, contributing to her being recognized as a pioneer in the field.
A recent study published in Human Molecular Genetics found that increasing a brain enzyme called puromycin-sensitive aminopeptidase can remove toxic tau proteins from neurons. This removal restored neuronal density and slowed down disease progression without any adverse effects. The research suggests that elevating this naturally occur...
Astronomers find that galaxies in this 'sweet spot' mass range can form stars at high rates and grow rapidly. This discovery challenges current models of galaxy formation, suggesting a reduced need for dark matter to trigger starbursts. The research uses infrared images from Herschel's SPIRE instrument.
A new adherence course significantly improves blood pressure management in patients with high blood pressure, reducing non-adherence rates and blood pressure levels.
Researchers found that statin atorvastatin reduced CD38 and HLA-DR levels on T cells in HIV-infected patients, suggesting potential benefits in disease management. The study's findings support exploring the role of statins as an anti-inflammatory therapy for HIV.
Researchers have identified mutations in the MYH7 gene as a contributing factor to Ebstein's anomaly, a rare congenital valvular heart disease. The study found that these mutations can also be associated with left ventricular noncompaction, a condition that increases the risk of sudden cardiac death.
Dr. Glenn E. Schweitzer is honored for his efforts in engaging Russia and Iran in science diplomacy, dating back to the Cold War era. He has maintained relationships with scientists from these countries despite challenges and improvements in US-Iran relations.
Researchers at Ben-Gurion University are leading a project to develop robots that can selectively pick high-value crops like greenhouse peppers and premium wine grapes. The robots will be equipped with advanced sensing and manipulation algorithms to detect ripe fruit and avoid unripe ones.
Researchers identified a new role for focal adhesion kinase in producing vascular leakiness in lung tissue, increasing expression of E-selectin and attracting cancer cells. Blocking FAK activity reduced both vascular permeability and metastatic cell adhesion.
A new study estimates that up to two-thirds of Earth's permafrost will disappear by 2200, unleashing massive amounts of carbon into the atmosphere. The team predicts a release of roughly 190 billion tons of carbon, equivalent to half of the amount released since the Industrial Age.
The study concludes that replacing 30% of petroleum consumption with biofuels by 2030 is technically possible, but the cost will be high, with biomass prices ranging from $140 to over $200 per metric ton. The research team identified miscanthus and switchgrass as promising high-yielding crops for biomass production.
New research reveals environmental progestogens can cause sterility in frogs, particularly when exposed during early life stages. The study, conducted at Uppsala University, found that even low concentrations of levonorgestrel can lead to abnormal ovarian and oviduct development in female tadpoles.
Tropical Storm Bingiza continues to impact western Madagascar, with strong thunderstorms and heavy rainfall reported over the region. The storm's cloud tops reached temperatures as low as -52 degrees Celsius, indicating strong convection and thunderstorms.
A 22-year study found no cases of diabetes and only one non-lethal case of cancer in individuals with Laron syndrome, a growth-stunting mutation. In contrast, relatives without such mutations had higher rates of diabetes and cancer. The study suggests that blocking growth hormone activity may be protective against these diseases.
Scientists discovered fossils of large seaweeds and worm-like animals, revealing brief oxygenation episodes in the Ediacaran Period. The findings suggest that complex eukaryotes evolved tens of millions years after the snowball earth event, which ended 635 million years ago.
African fossil sites between six and five million years ago show signs of a distinct history of increasing isolation, which may have been caused by global climate change. The modern African sub-Saharan mammalian community is believed to be the vestige of a once-wider-ranging fauna.
Researchers demonstrate that tau-induced memory loss in Alzheimer's mice is reversible after deactivating the toxic tau gene, allowing them to regain learning and remembering abilities. The study also shows that new synapses form in the brains of mice with a deactivated gene.