A new study found that consumers with low body esteem are influenced by the consumption behaviors of others, including attractive salespeople and fellow shoppers. The researchers also suggest retailers design store layouts to minimize self-esteem impacting moments for customers trying on clothes.
A new study in the Journal of Consumer Research introduces a model capturing the process of goal revision. Consumers tend to set and revise goals, with adjustments influenced by factors such as motivation, external pressures, and previous achievements.
Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania have successfully treated advanced chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) patients with genetically engineered 'serial killer' T cells. The treatment involves removing and reprogramming patient cells to target specific proteins, resulting in sustained remissions and reduced side effects.
Algae-based fuel produces high energy output with minimal land use, but its production is associated with significant environmental costs. The research suggests that algae-based biofuels may not be a silver bullet for replacing petroleum as a transportation energy source.
The use of nanoparticles in sunscreens has sparked controversy over potential health effects. Scientific evidence suggests a link between particle penetration and undesirable body reactions, but proven benefits in reducing skin cancer risk outweigh theoretical concerns.
A pharmacist-directed anticoagulation service improves the transition of care for patients treated with warfarin, enhancing communication between hospital and outpatient clinicians. The study found a 5% decline in bleeding and thrombosis risk for patients treated by the service.
Researchers at the Trudeau Institute have identified a previously unknown link between the migration of white blood cells to infected tissues and their ability to survive as long-lived memory cells. This discovery aims to improve vaccine efficacy, particularly for the elderly population.
A Vietnamese PhD student, Tung Le, has made a breakthrough in understanding how an antibiotic-producing organism controls resistance to its own antibiotic. His research shows that the SimR protein regulates antibiotic export by binding to DNA or the antibiotic itself.
Gordon, a high-performance supercomputer using large amounts of flash-based SSD memory, is being made available to US academic researchers. The system will handle massive databases with up to 100 times faster speeds than traditional hard drive disk systems.
A University of Virginia study found that intense light enhances fear or anxiety in mice, while dimmer light reduces it. The researchers discovered that the visual pathway responsible for this behavior is in the rods and cones, which can be used to treat depression and anxiety disorders.
Research at Queen's University Biological Station reveals that singing shared songs is an attention-seeking behavior often displayed by older males. Song sharing is linked to individual differences like age and neighborhood characteristics.
Researchers found that commercial blood serum antibody tests are not accurate or cost-effective for diagnosing active TB, leading to more false-positive diagnoses and secondary infections. The World Health Organization has recommended against using these tests in the diagnosis of active TB.
Researchers studied flatworms to understand how they regenerate their excretory systems from scratch, providing clues about the evolutionary origin of mammalian kidneys. They found that flatworm protonephridia, a complex epithelial organ, shares structural similarities with mammalian nephrons.
The study found that CT scan use grew 11 times faster than the rate of ED visits during the study period, increasing from 3.2% to 13.9% between 1996 and 2007.
Researchers at Kiel University have discovered a novel state of crystal matter with both compressible and incompressible properties. The discovery was made using extensive computer simulations and sheds light on the behavior of excitons, hydrogen atom-like bound states of electrons and holes.
Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center found that frequent tanning bed users exhibit brain activity and blood flow patterns similar to those of people addicted to drugs or alcohol. The study suggests that the rewarding effects of tanning beds may lead to compulsive behavior despite the increased risk of skin cancer.
Scientists have found that minced banana peels can quickly remove toxic metals like lead and copper from river water. The banana peel purification apparatus can be reused up to 11 times without losing its effectiveness, making it a promising alternative to traditional methods.
Researchers at the University of Southern California found that mice lacking a key enzyme are unable to properly assess threats, leading to defensive behaviors in response to neutral stimuli and reduced caution in the presence of danger. The study suggests that this deficiency may be related to an inability to adapt to environmental cues.
An international team of scientists identified 29 new genetic variants linked to multiple sclerosis, providing key insights into the biology of the disease. The study confirms 23 previously known genetic associations and doubles the number of genes associated with MS.
A Baylor University study found that NO2 Platinum, a muscle-strengthening supplement, has no significant impact on blood flow. The researchers saw a slight increase in blood flow after exercise but attributed it to resistance exercise rather than the supplement.
A recent study by Yale University researchers has identified more than two dozen new genetic variants linked to disease risk in multiple sclerosis and other autoimmune diseases. The findings suggest a common genetic basis for many devastating immune system disorders.
A University of New Hampshire researcher has discovered that Yale psychologist Arnold Gesell manipulated his photographic record to support his pro-eugenic thesis. Gesell's research falsely accused Alma, Wisconsin of being overrun with mentally and morally unfit people, a claim that has been debunked by the new discovery.
Researchers report that people over age 50 tend to miss the metallic taste of iron in water, even at levels above EPA thresholds. This decline in taste perception raises health concerns for older adults who may be at increased risk for conditions like Alzheimer's disease and other age-related issues.
A new study finds that paper money from around the world contains bisphenol A, a potentially toxic substance. The amounts of BPA on currency are higher than in house dust, but human intake is lower due to dermal absorption.
A new study uses advanced analysis to predict reaction time by assessing neural firing rates in the brain. The research found that the degree of neural activity advancement at the 'go' cue significantly affects reaction time.
Rice University researchers developed a method to rapidly convert glucose into biofuels and petrochemical substitutes by reversing the beta oxidation cycle in bacteria. They produced butanol, a biofuel, about 10 times faster than previously reported organisms, using cheap feedstocks like glucose and mineral salts.
A commentary in New England Journal of Medicine suggests fibrates do not lower heart risk in diabetic patients taking statins; doctors recommend prescription only to high-risk patients after optimal LDL control achieved
A pilot study at UCSF found the highest levels ever reported of banned flame retardants among pregnant women worldwide, with high levels associated with thyroid hormone disruption. The chemicals were linked to liver, thyroid, and neurodevelopmental toxicity, highlighting concerns over exposure in lower-income populations.
Two UC Irvine papers suggest that reduced use of petroleum and increased capture of natural gas contributed to the leveling off of methane levels in the atmosphere. In contrast, a second study found that changes in Asian farming practices, particularly the use of inorganic fertilizers, were a key factor in reducing methane emissions.
A Northwestern University study reveals that people with arthritis are not engaging in physical activity critical to their health. The research found that more than half of women and 40 percent of men with arthritis were inactive.
New research by University of York scientists proposes that quantum mechanics could be the key to understanding how black holes work, potentially allowing information to escape. The study's findings suggest a possible breakthrough in our understanding of gravity and its relationship with space and time.
A study by the University of Maryland School of Public Health found that organic poultry farms have lower levels of drug-resistant enterococci bacteria compared to conventional farms. This suggests that removing antibiotics from large-scale U.S. poultry farms can lead to immediate and significant reductions in antibiotic resistance for...
A new study found that fast disclaimers can harm purchase intentions for unknown or distrusted brands, while trusted brands can use them without issue. Advertisers promoting trusted brands may save time by using fast disclaimers, but regulators need to consider the impact on consumer trust and advertising policies.
A global study led by University of Edinburgh found that rivaroxaban is as effective as warfarin in reducing stroke risk for patients with irregular heartbeats. The new treatment has a lower risk of fatal bleeding and requires less monitoring than the current standard treatment.
Researchers at INRS have developed a new iron-based catalyst capable of generating more electric power in fuel cells. This breakthrough could pave the way for the use of iron-based catalysts instead of rare and expensive platinum-based ones, enabling the production of more efficient fuel cells for transportation applications.
A Woods Hole team joins forces with NOAA to map and survey shipwrecks off North Carolina, a critical piece of WWII history. The mission aims to create detailed 3D images of wrecks using ROVs and dive teams, providing insights into the marine environment and potential new discoveries.
A study by Purdue University and the University of Arkansas evaluated 12 bermudagrass and zoysiagrass cultivars for divot resistance. The results show that some grasses are more resistant to divoting than others, which can help reduce maintenance inputs and costs.
Researchers have discovered hydrogen-powered symbiotic bacteria in deep-sea mussels, which use hydrogen as an energy source. The ability to harness hydrogen is widespread in hydrothermal vent symbioses, with one mussel population consuming up to 5000 liters of hydrogen per hour.
A new study develops and tests genetically engineered spider silk for safe and efficient gene delivery, offering a promising alternative to viral vectors. The material successfully attaches to diseased cells and injects DNA without harming mice in lab studies.
Researchers found that HIV detection odds differ by method, with social networks and partner services outperforming alternative venue testing. The study suggests a multi-faceted approach to HIV prevention is needed, acknowledging individual differences within the demographic.
A team of ecologists led by Ohio State University researchers found that younger, more diverse tree species are replacing aging aspens in the region's forests. These newer trees have higher light-use efficiency and can continue to store carbon, offsetting greenhouse gas emissions.
A new study published in Clinical Rehabilitation found that robot-assisted therapy, combined with functional task training, significantly improved functional arm use and bimanual arm activity in daily life among stroke patients. The study used accelerometers to measure real-world arm activity and showed that this type of therapy can pr...
Researchers identified 29 new genetic variants linked to multiple sclerosis, shedding light on immunological pathways and immune system involvement. The study confirms 23 known genetic associations and provides insight into a possible link between genetic and environmental risk factors.
Researchers at Harvard discovered that a simple balance of forces determines the formation of the vertebrate gut's predictably loopy shape. The gut grows faster than its attached mesentery tissue, causing it to coil as the elastic forces build up.
Research by University at Buffalo sociologists reveals a marked increase in the portrayal of women as hypersexualized in popular media, leading to cause for concern about negative consequences. The study found that images of men have become more sexualized over time, but women continue to be more frequently and intensely sexualized.
A study of 188 teenagers in rural Georgia counties found that nearly 54% preferred receiving contact via phone with a recorded message from a known researcher. This approach proved more efficient and effective than text messaging or social media platforms like Facebook.
A novel sensory pathway modulates Th17 cell responses, revealing a potential anti-inflammatory mechanism for PI-3K and Akt inhibitors. The study's findings have significant implications for understanding autoimmune diseases and developing new treatments.
A new experimental study from the University of California, San Diego suggests that spoilers don't spoil stories, but rather enhance enjoyment. People who flip to the last page before starting a book have better intuition and prefer spoiled versions of ironic-twist and mystery stories.
A new study explores how class differences impact customer-hospitality worker interactions, revealing a game of status where customers reenact their dominance over workers. The research finds that service workers are not powerless, as they also have interdependent roles in the interaction.
A research team found that blocking the p38α MAPK protein influences behavior, contributing to depression-like symptoms and risk for addiction. The study suggests a novel therapeutic target for promoting stress resilience in models of depression and addiction.
A new study by Harvard School of Public Health researchers finds a strong association between the consumption of red meat—particularly when the meat is processed—and an increased risk of type 2 diabetes. Replacing red meat with healthier proteins can significantly lower this risk.
People with Parkinson's disease who see a neurologist are more likely to live longer, less likely to be placed in a nursing home, and have fewer hip fractures. The study also found disparities in access to care based on gender and ethnicity.
Researchers at Thomas Jefferson University discovered that blocking a receptor of a key hormone in the renin-angiotensin system reduces cancer cell growth by activating the enzyme AMPK, which inhibits fatty acid synthase. This finding suggests a potential target for chemopreventive agents to fight pancreatic cancer.
A new analysis of plants in grassland ecosystems worldwide reveals that most species are crucial for ecosystem functioning. Researchers found that 84% of grassland species promote ecosystem functioning at some point, contradicting previous assumptions about the importance of diversity.
Researchers at Penn State found that consuming high-fat meals with antioxidant spices reduced triglyceride response by about 30 percent, which may help lower heart disease risk. Adding spices to meals also increased antioxidant activity in the blood by 13 percent.
Strains and sprains account for over a third of lower extremity injuries treated at emergency departments. An 'ankle hotline' could spare valuable ER time and resources by providing alternative care options.
A new study suggests that Alzheimer's disease symptoms are less noticeable in people over 80 compared to those between 60-75. Brain scans revealed that executive function, memory, and attention were less abnormal in older adults.
Researchers found that activating p38alpha MAPK reduces stress resilience by decreasing serotonin levels in the brain. This leads to depression-like behaviors, social avoidance, and drug-seeking behavior. The study suggests a novel therapeutic target to promote stress resilience.
Researchers report that certain forms of narcissism can be beneficial for young people, helping them navigate adolescence and early adulthood. In contrast, older adults with similar traits may experience lower life satisfaction and a poorer reputation.
Scientists at Nationwide Children's Hospital have developed a human-cell-derived model of ALS that accurately mimics the majority of cases. The new model reveals that astrocytes may be releasing toxins that contribute to motor neuron degeneration, highlighting the importance of replacing these cells as a potential therapy target.
Consumers tend to focus on quality when faced with many choices, leading them to be willing to pay more for high-quality products. The study found that in controlled experiments and natural experiments, participants were prepared to pay up to 40% more for high-quality chocolates and wine when presented with a large assortment of options.
A large international study has identified 29 new genetic variants associated with multiple sclerosis, providing key insights into the biology of the disease. The research highlights the pivotal role of the immune system in causing damage and helps explain the nature of the immune attack on the brain and spinal cord.
Physicists at NIST have successfully linked the quantum properties of two separated ions by manipulating them with microwaves, enabling a new approach to simplify ion-trap quantum computers. The use of microwaves reduces errors introduced by laser beam instabilities and power fluctuations.
Researchers identified new ADHD genes and showed a link between some of these genes and those found in autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and other neuropsychiatric conditions. The study found that people carrying the same CNVs can have different symptoms, highlighting the complexity of ADHD.
A six-month double-blind study found that higher protein intake during weight loss can offset negative effects on muscle mass by maintaining more muscle relative to the amount of weight lost. Women who ate more protein lost 3.9 percent more weight and had a relative gain of 5.8 percent more thigh muscle volume than woman who did not.
A meta-analysis of 4 million individuals found that women have a 25% higher risk of developing coronary heart disease compared to men who smoke. The longer a woman smokes, the higher her risk becomes.
A large double-blind study has shown that rivaroxaban is noninferior to warfarin for preventing stroke and blood clots in patients with atrial fibrillation. The study found that rivaroxaban use led to less intra-cranial and fatal bleeding, making it an attractive alternative to the current standard treatment.
The recycling of the Earth's crust in volcanoes is faster than previously thought, with rock from oceanic crust resurfacing in the mantle within half a billion years. This discovery was made using volcanic rock samples and challenges the previous estimate of two billion years.
Consumers tend to prefer harder-to-get items and products due to perceived value, even if they require more effort. Researchers found that people prioritize outcomes associated with effort, leading them to favor elusive or hard-to-find options.
A team of researchers at Children's National Medical Center has identified the genetic mutation causing Proteus syndrome, a rare disorder characterized by excessive tissue and bone growth. The study found that a point mutation in the AKT1 gene activates sporadic tissue growth associated with Proteus syndrome.
A new study published in the Journal of Consumer Research found that professional buyers do not engage in 'relationships' with salespeople. Buyers prioritize transactions and expect low expectations for future interactions. This challenges traditional marketing strategies focused on building personal bonds with customers.
A new study finds that California pregnant women have the highest reported exposures to PBDE flame retardants worldwide. The research suggests a link between PBDE levels and thyroid-stimulating hormone, which regulates thyroid activity.
Researchers at the University of Michigan have developed a new anticensorship scheme called Telex, which uses public-key steganography to divert connections through participating ISPs. This system could shift the arms race regarding censorship in favor of free speech and access to information.
EU companies expect global R&D investments to grow by 5% annually, with a significant focus on emerging economies like China and India. Innovation is seen as key to commercial success and job creation, with 27% of annual sales coming from innovative products introduced in the past three years.