Fiorenzo Omenetto, a Tufts biomedical engineer, has been awarded the prestigious Guggenheim Fellowship to develop bioresorbable optical and electronic components. His research focuses on silk-based photonics, which could address unmet needs in medical, food safety, and environmental applications.
Sophie Warny, LSU assistant professor of palynology, receives $582,000 NSF CAREER Award to study Antarctic warm periods. The grant will support high-resolution paleo-environmental studies and educational outreach.
A new national study found that an estimated 5.25 million football-related injuries were treated in U.S. emergency departments between 1990 and 2007. The annual number of injuries increased by 27 percent, with nearly 2,000 children treated daily during football season.
Researchers at EPFL and EMPA developed a technique to improve control over laser parameters, including wavelength and polarization. This innovation boosts high-speed optical fiber communications with reduced errors, while also enabling energy-efficient lasers and precise spectroscopic applications.
A study found that extending the HPV vaccine dosing schedule to every 3 months was comparable to the standard schedule in terms of antibody concentration levels. This alternative schedule may provide a more feasible option for expanding vaccine use in developing countries.
Harvard researchers develop rigorous mathematical theory to predict surface stability or instability under irradiation over time. The theory reveals that the cumulative effect of atoms knocked around, not blasted away, determines surface stability.
A new clinical trial shows that safinamide can help patients with severe Parkinson's disease by reducing dyskinesia, or movement problems. The study found that taking safinamide in addition to levodopa and other dopaminergic treatments reduced dyskinesia by 24% in some participants.
The ESNA project developed a flexible framework for business-oriented wireless-sensor network applications, enabling precision agriculture, energy monitoring, and industrial process control. The project's strong European lead in wireless sensor networks is being leveraged by commercial actors and spin-offs targeting various industries.
Researchers have identified two bioflavonoids, catechin and naringenin, with antiviral activity against hepatitis C virus. These compounds, combined with existing flavonoid quercetin, may provide a promising therapy for millions of people worldwide.
Research reveals that birds developed better olfactory capabilities during early evolution, surpassing even those of small meat-eating dinosaurs. This finding contradicts the long-held notion that bird ancestors prioritized vision and balance over smell.
Researchers found that drinking tart cherry juice daily can significantly reduce inflammation and cardiovascular risk in overweight adults. A cherry diet also reduced atherosclerosis and other heart disease risk factors in mice, with improved cardiovascular health leading to a 65% reduction in early death.
A need for pediatric-specific quality measures is highlighted due to differences in adult and pediatric patients' treatment and prevention efforts. The authors advocate for separate, targeted efforts to reduce healthcare-associated infections in infants and children.
The study will investigate environmental and genetic factors affecting child health, development, and quality of life. Researchers aim to understand the impact of various factors on chronic illness in children.
Researchers found that manuka honey can inhibit bacterial attachment to tissues and make MRSA more sensitive to antibiotics, reversing antibiotic resistance. This discovery could lead to the development of cheaper and more effective treatments for wound infections.
A new study by Cornell University researchers finds that shale gas contributes significantly to global warming due to high methane emissions. The study's findings challenge the logic of using shale gas as a bridging fuel to reduce global warming.
A review paper by IOF examines global hip fracture incidence trends, finding changes in age-specific rates in different regions. The study highlights the need for further research to understand the socio-economic burden of fragility fractures worldwide.
Qiaoqiang Gan and his team have developed nanoplasmonic structures that can slow broadband light waves, allowing them to trap multiple wavelengths of light on a single chip. This breakthrough could lead to significant increases in processing and transmission capacity for optical data storage and communications.
A new study by researchers at the University of Michigan Health System has uncovered a link between genetic variations associated with alcoholism, impulsive behavior and a region of the brain involved in craving and anxiety. Variations in the GABRA2 gene contribute to the risk of alcoholism by influencing impulsive behaviors.
Nine patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) were treated with Neuralstem's spinal cord stem cells, showing no unresolved serious adverse reactions or death. The trial indicates the feasibility of transplanting stem cells directly into the spinal cord, paving the way for future treatments.
A cancer specialist at Children's Hospital Los Angeles has been awarded $1.7 million by the NCI to develop a new strategy to overcome resistance of cancer cells to radiation therapy. The goal is to create personalized radiation therapy regimens with fewer side effects.
A new University of Georgia study found that cultural factors in the firefighting profession contribute to line-of-duty fatalities, with cardiovascular events being the leading cause. The research also identified under-resourcing, inadequate preparation, and incomplete adoption of incident command procedures as contributing factors.
A multicenter study found that older adults at risk for stroke have increased risk of verbal fluency decline and difficulty ignoring irrelevant information. The research suggests treating stroke risk factors may decrease executive function decline in otherwise healthy patients.
Kojiro Irikura will be honored with the Bruce A. Bolt Medal at the Seismological Society of America's annual meeting for his leadership in strong-motion earthquake data analysis in Japan.
A new computer-generated forecast provides pilots with critical weather information on the likelihood of encountering in-flight icing conditions. The Forecast Icing Product with Severity (FIP-Severity) offers 12-hour forecasts that help users plan safe flight paths, reducing accidents and costs related to icing hazards.
The journal Brachytherapy will now publish six times a year, with a meeting abstracts supplement annually. This expansion reflects the American Brachytherapy Society's commitment to providing radiation oncologists and other healthcare professionals with state-of-the-science treatments.
Midwest ISO's energy market designs and launch led to significant value creation through improved reliability and efficiencies, with estimated savings of $2.1-$3.0 billion from 2007-2010 and potentially up to $8.1 billion by 2020.
A randomized trial comparing three types of exercise training found that low-intensity treadmill exercise resulted in the most consistent improvements in gait and mobility for people with Parkinson's disease. Stretching and resistance exercises also showed some benefits.
Researchers found tiger-parrots occupy a unique spot on the parrot evolutionary tree, contradicting long-held assumptions about their relationships. This discovery sheds light on the bigger picture of parrot evolution in Australia and New Guinea.
Major global health foundations have links with pharmaceutical and food corporations that may benefit from foundation grants, raising conflicts of interest concerns. The analysis found all five largest US private/family foundations had endowment investments in these companies.
Researchers at Mayo Clinic have created a tool that uses cerebrospinal fluid test results to predict disability timelines for patients with progressive multiple sclerosis. The study found that patients with higher levels of certain proteins in their CSF are more likely to experience a faster onset of disability.
A new study finds that consuming an apple a day can significantly decrease LDL cholesterol levels by 23% and increase HDL cholesterol by 4%. Additionally, daily apple consumption was found to aid in weight loss of approximately 3.3 lbs over the course of one year.
A study by the Crime Victims' Institute found that gang members are twice as likely to be victims of crime than non-gang members, with increased risks of assault and drive-by shootings.
A study by Kent State University researcher John Gunstad found that bariatric surgery patients showed improved memory function 12 weeks after their operations. The researchers tested 150 participants and discovered a link between weight loss and enhanced cognitive abilities.
Biochemist Yingfu Li and his research team have developed a universal test that can quickly identify any bacteria, reducing the time for detection from days to hours. This breakthrough could help safeguard the health of Canadians and supply industry with a reliable means to bring safe food products to consumers.
The sentinel node procedure has evolved to limit surgical overtreatment, but isolated tumor cells and micrometastases have led to increased surgeries. Current studies examine the role of radiotherapy, pathologic protocols, and prognostic impact of these findings on breast cancer patients.
Louisiana Tech University students Louis Reis and Mark Wade have been awarded National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowships. The fellowships provide three years of support for their graduate education in science and engineering research.
A report by the Nuffield Council on Bioethics finds current biofuels policies to be unethical due to their impact on the environment and human rights. The council recommends a certification scheme to ensure environmentally sustainable and 'human rights friendly' biofuels.
Scientists have discovered two new genes that could help control Staphylococcus aureus, a drug-resistant bacterium. The genes encode copper- and sulfur-binding repressors that regulate the expression of copper resistance genes.
A study of over 8000 smokers found that false beliefs about cigarette risk vary by country, with 'silver', 'gold', and 'slim' cigarettes being perceived as lower-risk. Researchers call for further regulation and support for plain packaging regulations to reduce deceptive marketing.
A study found that individuals with asymptomatic herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) infection can still shed the virus, highlighting a high risk of transmission to unsuspecting sexual partners. This poses a significant concern for public health and patient management.
Researchers have discovered a protein that improves vascular regeneration in mice with heart attacks, and found that manipulating this protein could be used to treat various vascular diseases. Additionally, studies on mouse models have revealed plasticity in the pathways that control insulin secretion, offering new insights into diabet...
A new study from North Carolina State University finds that the general public perceives nanoparticles as a relatively low risk, with 60% of respondents viewing them as posing only a slight health risk or none at all. The study compared public perceptions of nanoparticle risks to other environmental and health safety risks.
Weill Cornell researchers highlight the importance of cultural context in medical education and patient care. They argue that social context affects what is taught and how information is received by students, leading to a diverse range of hidden curricula.
The USDA has identified six lesser-known Escherichia coli types, known as the Big Six, which are increasingly of concern to food safety scientists. Researchers have developed gene-based PCR assays for each type, allowing for quick and reliable identification and detection.
A new study led by Emory psychologist Stella Lourenco found a clear relation between claustrophobic fear and basic aspects of spatial perception. People with higher claustrophobic fear have an exaggerated sense of near space surrounding them.
Researchers at Emory University School of Medicine have discovered a potential mechanism that may contribute to the link between epilepsy and fragile X syndrome. The protein FMRP controls the production of a protein called Kv4.2, which regulates electrical signals in brain cells.
Researchers at NYU School of Medicine identified three novel small molecules that block a crucial cellular communication pathway regulating cancer growth. The finding could provide the basis for innovative therapies for colorectal cancer and other diseases associated with aberrations in this pathway.
A new study published in Biotechnology Journal reveals a cheaper and more efficient method for treating dyed denim, eliminating the need for hazardous sandblasting techniques. The surface activation technique reduces fabric strength decay, shortens wash-down processes, and minimizes chemical usage.
A new model of island ecology suggests that most unique island species should be common on their island, contradicting the common perception of rarity. The researchers used data from 35 islands and archipelagos to develop the model, which predicts how many individuals of each species can be expected to see in their natural habitat.
A randomized trial of 52 pregnant women found that those consuming fish oil supplements had significantly lower postpartum depression symptoms and fewer anxiety-related issues. The study suggests that DHA consumption during pregnancy has the potential to decrease symptoms of postpartum depression.
A new educational booklet developed by UCLA researchers can help patients better prepare for a colonoscopy, increasing the likelihood of a successful procedure. The booklet provides clear instructions and visual aids to aid in bowel preparation, which is crucial for identifying polyps and reducing cancer incidence.
A 3-month study found that brisk walking for 30-50 minutes three to four times a week improved brain blood flow by 15% in elderly women. This increase in blood flow may improve cognitive function and delay the onset of Alzheimer's disease.
Research suggests that a mother's nutritional or psychological stress during pregnancy and lactation may create a signature on her child's genes that put the child at increased risk for obesity later in life. Female offspring are more susceptible to developing abdominal fat, prediabetes, and impaired glucose metabolism.
The quality of healthcare in both public and private sectors in low-income countries is poor, with many services scoring low on infrastructure, clinical competence, and practice. Improving the quality of care in both sectors can be a pro-poor intervention to improve health outcomes.
A large-scale study of 769 men with low-grade prostate cancer found that closely monitoring the disease without immediate treatment does not raise the risk of death. Men who undergo active surveillance are less likely to need subsequent surgery or radiation if their cancer progression is carefully monitored.
Researchers at the University of Missouri found that women's engagement with news stories is not linked to writing style. Instead, they suggest that women may be less interested in crime and negative stories. The study used secondary task reaction times to compare participants' reactions to inverted pyramid and chronological narrative ...
Researchers found that real-time search terms have significant economic value, with unique searches generating $33 million in revenue daily. The study, published in Information Processing and Management, suggests a growing market for real-time search, driven by the increasing number of Twitter updates.
A study suggests that cutting Scotland's greenhouse gas emissions by a half within 20 years is achievable through the use of smart meters, improved recycling, and greener building designs. The researchers recommend carbon capture and storage to reduce emissions from industry and coal-fired power plants.
A recent UBC study reveals that experts with specific product knowledge can make mistakes when relying on their memories to compare products. The researchers found that a feeling of accountability and pressure to give the best recommendations can lead to false recalls, especially in complex goods such as cameras, cars, and computers.
Researchers from the University of Brighton are exploring a new approach to prevent catheter blockage by inhibiting the rise in urinary pH. The study found that biofilm-forming ability may not be the primary factor in catheter blockage, but rather the formation of crystals that can cause blockages.
Contrary to long-held assumptions, birds developed a better sense of smell than their dinosaur ancestors, suggesting that scent played a crucial role in early bird evolution. The study reveals that ancient birds, like Archaeopteryx, had a sense of smell similar to modern-day pigeons.
A new study published in JAMA found that a 4-drug fixed-dose regimen is noninferior to separate drug treatment for tuberculosis, with 93.9% of patients in the FDC group achieving favorable outcomes. This regimen simplifies treatment and reduces the risk of drug resistance.
Researchers at the University of Maryland found that low-intensity exercise, such as walking on a treadmill for 50 minutes three times a week, can improve mobility and delay disability in Parkinson's patients. The study also showed benefits from stretching and resistance exercises.
The National Institutes of Health has funded a study to develop an inhaled lung cancer treatment using the drug 5-azacytidine. Researchers at Albert Einstein College of Medicine aim to target premalignant lung cancer by reactivating genes that suppress tumors.
A new study found that prenatal exposure to air pollutants, particularly polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH), is linked to attention problems and anxiety/depression in young children. The study monitored 215 children from birth and found that those with high levels of PAH exposure had more symptoms at ages 5 and 7.
A 3-month study of 16 elderly women found that brisk walking improved brain blood flow by 15% and increased oxygen consumption. The study suggests that vascular health may be linked to brain health, and that moderate exercise can be beneficial in the senior years.
A new study reveals that Iraqi refugees are disproportionately affected by brain and nervous system disorders, with 4% of all registered refugees having a diagnosed condition. The most common diagnoses were epilepsy, back pain, and headache, with many refugees experiencing torture-related injuries.
A new Purdue University study reveals that people who experience discrimination are more likely to gain weight and develop obesity-related health issues. The research found that males tend to be more affected by discrimination than females, with a higher increase in waist circumference over time.
A study by University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine investigators shows that mice lacking a key protein develop squamous cell cancers resembling human disease, supporting novel therapies and early detection strategies. The findings settle a 20-year debate and prove the protein's role as a tumor-suppressor.
Scientists have discovered how anti-depressants make new brain cells by regulating the glucocorticoid receptor, a key protein involved in stress response. This finding holds promise for developing more effective anti-depressant treatments to combat depression.
Researchers have successfully isolated and transplanted pig stem cells, providing a closer anatomical match to human retinas. This breakthrough opens up new avenues for studying degenerative conditions and repairing damaged retina tissue.
A new study by neurobiologist Hitoshi Morikawa found that repeated ethanol exposure enhances synaptic plasticity in a key area of the brain. This increased capacity for learning, or 'conditionability,' may help explain why alcoholics become more receptive to forming habits and memories related to food, music, and social situations.
A study reveals growing disparities in stroke death rates between European countries, with some nations experiencing a significant increase in mortality rates. The research suggests that controlling high blood pressure is crucial to addressing this public health issue.
A new fusion molecule with three parts activates the immune system to attack cancer cells directly, while keeping it dormant until needed. The approach has shown promising results in lab experiments and mice with cancer, inhibiting tumor growth and activating immune cells.
Researchers at Michigan State University have identified the key role of circadian clocks in plant freezing tolerance. The study found that integrating cold-signaling pathways with the circadian clock is crucial for maximum freezing tolerance, paving the way for the development of stress-tolerant crops.
Researchers found that ghrelin enhances odor detection and exploratory sniffing in both rats and human subjects. The study suggests a link between ghrelin and the natural regulation of metabolism and body weight.