Research at the University of Michigan suggests that rising carbon dioxide levels associated with global warming may affect interactions between plants and insects, altering the course of plant evolution. The study found that plant families responded differently to elevated carbon dioxide in their production of chemical and physical de...
Researchers studying magma flows in Iceland's Krafla volcano have found a rare opportunity to examine supercritical water and its potential as an energy source. The team discovered rhyolite magma, formed by partial melting of basaltic rock, which can generate significant electricity if harnessed.
Research from North Carolina State University finds that children of working mothers are 200% more likely to experience asthma, accidents, and overnight hospitalizations. Advanced statistical techniques were used to isolate the causal relationship between maternal employment and child health outcomes.
Researchers successfully extended tomato shelf-life by introducing a polyamine-producing yeast gene, resulting in a delay of shriveling up to three weeks and a slower rate of decay. The study also showed increased levels of lycopene, a nutrient linked to cancer prevention.
A new study found that Latino siblings of children with developmental disabilities experience anxiety, lower school performance, and struggle with expressing emotions due to cultural factors. These siblings are also at a higher risk for negative outcomes, including internalizing behaviors and difficulties in personal functioning.
A study published in Journal of Traumatic Stress found that virtual reality exposure therapy significantly reduced PTSD symptoms in active duty military service members, with 62% reporting clinically meaningful change. The innovative treatment uses multi-sensory virtual reality to safely access and process traumatic memories.
Researchers found that the 'twenty-four' gene is critical for producing a key clock protein in fruit flies. Without this gene, flies experience disrupted sleep-wake rhythms and have trouble waking up. The findings suggest a similar mechanism may be at play in humans.
International team of scientists has discovered a new phylum, Xenacoelomorpha, which rewrites the evolutionary history of animals. The discovery shows that simple marine worms like Xenoturbellida and Acoelomorpha are more closely related to complex organisms like humans and sea urchins than previously thought.
A newly discovered biomarker could help doctors diagnose meniscal tears with high accuracy, avoiding unnecessary surgery and medical scans. The biomarker, a fibronectin-aggrecan complex, was found in the knee fluid of patients with painful meniscal tears but not in asymptomatic individuals.
Scientists have discovered unrecognised substances released by algae blooms that can interfere with reproductive hormones, leading to potential harm to humans and aquatic animals. The researchers used zebrafish as a test subject and found that these substances can cause endocrine disrupting effects.
Scientists have developed a new food packaging material called 'killer paper' with silver nanoparticles that fights bacteria causing spoilage. The coating is effective against E. coli and S. aureus, killing bacteria in just three hours.
A recent study of 336 children with eczema found that installing a water softener did not improve symptoms, contradicting anecdotal reports. The trial, led by the University of Nottingham, suggested that hard water may worsen eczema due to high levels of calcium and magnesium.
A new balloon kyphoplasty procedure provides rapid pain relief, increased mobility, and reduced need for painkillers compared to standard non-surgical care. Cancer patients with spinal fractures experience improved spinal function, quality of life, and pain during the study period.
The study found that Lake Baikal's seasonality of surface water temperatures relates to the fluctuating intensity and path of the jet stream, while also tracking decadal-scale variations in the Earth's rotational velocity. This information can help forecast seasonal onset in Siberia and predict longer-term ecological changes.
A study by researchers from the Brain and Creativity Institute at USC found that White Americans respond faster to pictures of themselves than to pictures of their boss, while Chinese people in China respond fastest to pictures of their direct supervisor. This suggests cultural differences in responses to authority figures.
Researchers found that nuanced surgical techniques are more important than implant design in customizing knee replacements. These techniques ensure proper alignment and balance with ligaments and soft tissue.
Researchers at UCLA and the Veterans Administration may have accidentally discovered a solution to regrow hair by blocking a stress-related hormone, according to an article published in PLoS One. The compound, astressin-B, induced long-term hair growth in chronically stressed mutant mice through a short-duration treatment.
Researchers developed a new protein-based vaccine candidate that successfully inhibited pneumococcus from establishing a foothold in the body, providing near-complete protection. The vaccine stimulates TH17 cells, which provide natural immunity to pneumococcal infection.
A new multi-institutional center will develop tools to help governments, businesses, and individuals make informed decisions on climate and energy policies. The Center will utilize a new modeling framework, CIM-EARTH, to provide insights to policymakers and promote open science.
Recent studies on PCSK enzymes have shed light on novel functions in diseases such as cardiovascular disorders, osteoporosis, and cancer. The research has revealed that these enzymes may play a crucial role in regulating cholesterol levels and bone formation, offering potential new treatments for dyslipidemia and osteoporosis.
Researchers found a gene called RORA that plays a critical role in brain development and is affected by sex hormones. In individuals with autism, aromatase conversion of testosterone to estrogen is reduced, leading to increased male hormone levels and decreased RORA expression.
Researchers found that brain insulin suppresses lipolysis, a process breaking down triglycerides and releasing fatty acids, which worsens diabetes. Impaired brain insulin signaling can lead to a vicious cycle of inflammation and insulin resistance.
Dr. J. John Cohen is recognized for his work in demystifying science for non-scientists through public programs like Mini Med School, which has inspired similar programs globally. His research on apoptosis and teaching awards have further solidified his commitment to making science accessible.
The BTER Foundation has awarded six individuals for their contributions to biotherapy, a field that uses living organisms to aid healthcare. The award recipients include researchers, educators, and advocates who have promoted maggot therapy and other biotherapeutic disciplines.
Dr. Lynford L. Goddard has been recognized by the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) for his outstanding contributions to public engagement in science and technology. He designed the Girls Learning Electrical Engineering (GLEE) summer camp, which aims to make electrical engineering more accessible to high-school...
A study found that Break-induced Replication, a method of DNA repair, is up to 2,800 times more likely to cause genetic mutations than normal cell repair. Researchers think four changes in replication machinery may contribute to its accuracy issues.
Scientists have largely met technical challenges of developing biofuels, offering energy security and reduced carbon dioxide emissions. However, logistics issues with biomass availability, transport, and storage hinder commercial viability.
The Neandertal genome draft sequence reveals significant genetic variants shared with present-day humans from Eurasia, indicating gene flow before population divergence. This finding supports the theory of interbreeding between Neandertals and early modern humans in Eurasia.
A psychological scientist in Germany found that dialing specific numbers on a cell phone can induce positive emotions and activate word meanings. The study used number sequences corresponding to words, such as "love" and "friend," to show that mere typing of these numbers could affect participants' emotional responses.
This year's AAAS/Subaru Science Books & Film competition recognizes four authors, an illustrator, and a photographer for their scientifically sound works promoting science literacy. Winners explore topics like climate change, honey bee colonies, and biomedicine.
Scientists have discovered biomarkers in the blood of pregnant women that could lead to early diagnosis of ectopic pregnancy. Almost 70 proteins were found to occur at unusual levels in women with EP, with one protein called Adam12 appearing 20 times lower than in normal pregnancies.
A recent study found that passwords used to protect sensitive files in clinical trials are poorly constructed and easily cracked, putting personal health information at risk. The study recommends enforcing strong passwords and encryption algorithms to secure file sharing practices.
Researchers have developed a software application that automatically detects subtle brain lesions in MRI scans of epilepsy patients, identifying 92% of previously undetectable abnormalities. This proof-of-concept study validates the potential of non-invasive, automated detection tools for diagnosing and planning epilepsy surgery.
Fossil discoveries from the last decade are being reevaluated by biological anthropologists who argue that some fossils may not be human ancestors. The authors propose a more nuanced explanation, considering alternative interpretations and shared characteristics with other species.
Rep. Rush Holt is recognized for his strong support of investments in research and development, education, and expanding America's scientific workforce. He has advocated for scientists, students of STEM fields, and promoted economic growth through initiatives like Einstein's Alley.
Researchers review common misconceptions about liars and find that verbal methods of deception detection are more effective than nonverbal methods. They also identify opportunities to improve lie detection by exploiting psychological differences between liars and truth-tellers.
The Society for Neuroscience has launched BrainFacts.org, a nonprofit online source providing authoritative public information about brain research, thanks to $1.53 million in funding. The site will offer interactive content, multimedia resources, and accurate information on brain diseases, disorders, and health promotion.
A new study by researchers at the University of Maryland and Harvard University suggests that people who highlight past suffering are held less responsible for transgressions. In contrast, heroes receive more blame than villains, regardless of their previous good deeds.
A new study from Johns Hopkins Children's Center found that hip and thigh implants in children can lead to fractures of the same bones, even after the implant has been placed. The research, which analyzed over 7,500 pediatric bone implants, revealed a higher risk of fractures among patients with weakened or brittle bones.
A study published in Annals of Epidemiology analyzed breast cancer mortality data from 1975 to 2005 in Spanish provinces. The research found that geographical differences in death rates began to level out due to the uniform distribution of early prevention programs, reproductive therapy, and lifestyle factors.
The Jeffrey Modell Endowed Chair in Pediatric Immunology Research will advance research into primary immunodeficiency diseases, enabling early diagnosis and treatment to prevent permanent damage. Dr. Orange is renowned for studying natural killer cells and innate immune system biology.
Scientists discovered an 'atmospheric imprint' in insects, revealing where they can survive under climate change. By analyzing oxygen isotopes, researchers determined the type of atmosphere each insect needs to thrive.
A new study found that nearly 35% of orthopedic patient encounters in Pennsylvania were ordered for defensive purposes, resulting in $113,369 of total imaging charges. The study also revealed that surgeons are more likely to practice defensively if they have been in practice for over 15 years.
Researchers found ultrasound fusion imaging to be safe and effective in detecting bone and soft tissue cancers, with 93% accuracy compared to CT biopsies. The technique guides a needle biopsy with precise accuracy, making the experience more convenient for patients.
A new study published in The New England Journal of Medicine found that intravitreal bevacizumab significantly reduces the recurrence rate of retinopathy of prematurity in premature infants. The drug therapy also appears to preserve vision better than conventional laser treatment, with no need for intubation and a faster recovery.
A new inexpensive, accurate, and practical diagnostic test for Turner syndrome has been developed by Yale School of Medicine researchers. The test can detect X-chromosome abnormalities in girls and can be done in a doctor's office using cheek swabs or newborn screening blood spots.
The Alfred P. Sloan Foundation has selected 118 outstanding researchers as recipients of the prestigious Sloan Research Fellowships for 2011. These early-career scientists and scholars will receive $50,000 fellowships to support their original research in various fields.
A recent study found that American adults are scoring higher on a widely used index of civic scientific literacy, but still have significant gaps in their understanding of basic scientific concepts. The level of acceptance for biological evolution has declined over the last twenty years.
A new study in Psychological Science reports that thinking about a partner's support for goals can decrease motivation and increase procrastination. However, this phenomenon, known as self-regulatory outsourcing, can also lead to positive relationship outcomes if done consciously.
A study found that elderly Medicare black patients have higher 30-day hospital readmission rates for conditions like congestive heart failure and pneumonia compared to white patients. The disparities are related to hospitals that disproportionately care for black patients, suggesting a systemic issue with the healthcare system.
A systematic review found that biologic drugs used to treat arthritis may have rare but serious side effects, including increased risk of infections and cancer. The study analyzed data from 163 studies involving over 50,000 patients, highlighting the importance of comparative safety research.
A new study found that MRI screening in women with a history of chest irradiation can detect invasive cancers missed on mammography. The addition of MRI to the screening process resulted in a 4.4% incremental cancer detection rate.
The Fraunhofer Institute's Government Mashups research project utilizes mobile applications and GPS coordinates to facilitate the reporting of problems, such as potholes, to government departments. This allows for real-time tracking of communications and identification of duplicate reports, streamlining issue resolution.
The NYAS K-12 Science Education Initiative expands with Pathways to Science, providing curated science resources, online events, and community forums. The platform aims to improve science education in NYC by connecting teachers, students, and working scientists.
Researchers have sequenced the genome of the Blackleg fungus, revealing unique compartmentalisation and genetic diversity that enables it to cause devastating disease in canola crops. This discovery will aid in developing molecular markers to predict disease outbreaks and inform crop protection strategies.
A systematic review published in The Cochrane Library found that zinc supplements reduce the severity and duration of illness caused by the common cold. Zinc syrup, lozenges or tablets taken within a day of symptom onset reduced symptoms severity and length of illness.
Muscle cell fusion is a previously thought to be mutually consented event, but research reveals it's actually an invasive battle where one cell forces the other using finger-like projections.
A study analyzing Iraqi civilian deaths between 2003-2008 found that unknown perpetrators inflicted most of the violence, including extrajudicial executions and suicide bombs. The 'Dirty War Index' highlights the impact on vulnerable subgroups like women and children.
A new study suggests that abnormal heart rate turbulence may be a significant risk factor for heart disease death, even among those considered low-risk. Abnormal heart rate turbulence was found to be an even stronger predictor of heart disease death than elevated C-reactive protein levels in this population.
Scientists at Duke University Medical Center have identified a gene that governs how neurons form new connections. Without this gene, mice showed difficulty learning and didn't display typical memory ability. The study provides clues to memory and learning, potentially offering opportunities for early intervention after birth.