Growstones, an aggregate made from waste glass, has been shown to increase air-filled pore space in substrates more effectively than perlite and parboiled rice hulls. The study found that Growstones can be used as a substitute for these materials in greenhouse crop production, with improved water-holding capacity and bulk density.
A landmark study found that vaginal progesterone significantly reduced the rate of preterm birth by 42% and neonatal morbidity and mortality in women with a short cervix. The treatment also decreased respiratory distress syndrome and the need for mechanical ventilation.
A study by Boston University School of Medicine researchers found a direct link between diesel exhaust particulates, house dust extract, and pulmonary inflammation that aggravates asthma. Cleaning can reduce some allergen exposure, but DEP is harder to avoid in urban environments.
A new review of literature suggests that infants' early experiences with their caregivers predict their behavior in romantic relationships decades later. This
A team of researchers explains how granular materials change from flowing to solid states through shearing, which can help engineers and manufacturers. They discovered that even without density changes, the discs exhibited a solid state due to the shape of the box changing.
A team of scientists has observed the early stages of a Type Ia supernova, refining our understanding of these explosive events. The discovery suggests that the primary star was a carbon-oxygen white dwarf, and analysis of matter ejected by the explosion points to a possible subgiant or main-sequence star as the secondary companion.
Researchers at the University at Buffalo found that green routing can reduce carbon monoxide emissions by 27% while increasing trip lengths by just 11%. Simple changes like funneling cars along surface streets and intelligently targeting travelers yielded great gains in reducing regional emissions.
Fetal tracheal occlusion significantly improves infant survival in severe cases of CDH by enhancing pulmonary growth, increasing survival rates from less than 5% to about 50%. The study establishes FETO as standard care for severe forms of congenital diaphragmatic hernia.
New research from the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation finds that global health funding has slowed due to cutbacks in the US and shortfalls at the Global Fund, raising concerns about meeting the Millennium Development Goal deadline. Despite this, strong commitments to global health have been made by many countries.
Researchers at Indiana University find increasing concentrations of new flame retardants in atmospheric samples, particularly in urban areas, suggesting potential environmental impact.
A study by VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland and University of Eastern Finland reveals a biochemical signature indicative of hypoxia and up-regulated pentose phosphate pathway that can predict progression to Alzheimer's disease. This indicator can be analyzed from serum samples months or years before first symptoms occur.
Research led by John Scannella confirms that Triceratops is a single genus, resolving debate over the classification of Torosaurus and Nedoceratops. The study reveals that significant skeletal changes during development and natural variation within the genus cause specimens to exhibit varying features.
A Yale study found that removing sulfur from jet fuel has a small net cooling effect on the atmosphere. This is due to the formation of nitrate from nitrogen oxides in jet exhaust, which offsets the warming caused by sulfate particles formed by burning sulfur-laden fuel.
New research from Montana State University reveals how dinosaurs like Velociraptor and Deinonychus used their famous killer claws to latch onto prey, proposing a new behavior model for the evolution of flight in birds. This study suggests that the enlarged sickle-claw on digit two was used as an anchor to prevent escape, and that preci...
A new study by researchers at Duke University and Princeton University suggests that a person's brain can disengage from social interaction when encountering individuals considered 'disgusting', leading to 'dehumanized perception' and a lack of empathy. This failure can contribute to human atrocities, torture, and genocide.
A survey of landscape architects found that while many believe they have average plant materials knowledge, most agree that recent graduates lack expertise and the profession has distanced itself from plant knowledge over time. Experience remains a crucial skill for new graduates, according to seasoned professionals.
A new study reveals that humans have released 385,000 tons of mercury into the environment over the past 5,000 years, with emissions peaking in the late 1800s and rising again due to increased coal use. The research challenges the notion of declining mercury emissions.
A new genre of eco-friendly tires is being developed using genetically engineered microbes that produce raw materials from sugar. Companies like Goodyear and Michelin are partnering with biotechnology firms to create sustainable alternatives to traditional petroleum-based tires, which could debut within the next 3-5 years.
Nikolaus Rajewsky, a Professor at the Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine (MDC), will receive Germany's most prestigious research award, the Gottfried Wilhelm Leibniz Prize. His work on microRNAs and gene regulation has led to significant advances in understanding complex biological processes.
A study published in PLOS ONE found that worker ants can paralyze and kill termites without direct contact, thanks to their potent venom. The researchers discovered three functions of the ant venom: attracting nestmates, repelling alien ants, and killing termites.
Scientists at Gladstone Institutes have discovered protein fragments in semen that enhance HIV's ability to infect new cells. Removing these components from semen diminishes HIV's infection potential, suggesting a new approach to preventing transmission.
A Wayne State University study found that early research on cellphone conversations and crash risk may have overestimated the relative risk of conversation. Using GPS data, researchers tracked drivers over 400 days to find little driving consistency between control days, reducing the apparent risk of cellphone conversation.
Researchers at MIT have developed a system that visually signals the presence of target chemicals by emitting a fluorescent glow. The approach combines fluorescent molecules with metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) to provide easy visual identification of toxins or pathogens.
Researchers found that heart problems in Rett syndrome originate from the loss of the Rett gene (MeCP2) in nerve cells, not heart muscle cells. Abnormalities in brain activity can lead to cardiac malfunctions and death.
The RAND Corporation's new online guide helps hospitals and health care organizations anticipate and address problems when adopting electronic health records. Experts have compiled known-best practices for mitigating unintended consequences of EHR adoption.
A QUT study found a link between temperature increases and the incidence of stillbirth and shorter pregnancies. The study, which recorded 101,870 births over four years, estimated that increased temperatures increase the risk of stillbirth by 15°C, with the lowest risks seen in the coolest weeks.
An observational study found that statin use was associated with a decreased risk of dying among hospitalized patients with laboratory-confirmed influenza. Researchers also noted the potential benefits of randomized controlled trials to further examine the effectiveness of statins for influenza treatment.
A study by North American economists found that the cost of higher education is becoming increasingly inaccessible to low-income students, who are now facing significant barriers to accessing credit for college. This trend could have far-reaching economic impacts, as it restricts career choices and leads to less qualified workers in ke...
A combination of lamotrigine and valproate significantly reduced seizure frequency in patients with very difficult-to-control epilepsy. The treatment regimen, out of 32 tested combinations, showed superior efficacy compared to other regimens.
A study published in Nature Communications reveals that modern humans have a more developed sense of smell compared to Neanderthals, with larger olfactory bulbs and temporal lobes. This could be linked to improved behavioral and social functions.
A new technique developed by MIT researchers allows for the production of complex shapes on microchips, enabling further leaps in computational power. By combining interference patterns and photochromic materials, the technique can produce features one-eighth the size of traditional photolithography.
The RTOG is launching a phase I trial testing ganitumab for locally advanced pancreatic cancer. The trial will investigate the safety and efficacy of ganitumab when combined with chemoradiation treatment. By targeting the IGF-1R pathway, ganitumab may offer a new approach to treating this aggressive form of cancer.
Researchers discovered a gene that protects against colorectal cancer by causing cell death, but this mechanism is often blocked in human cancers. The gene, DCC, codes for a 'dependence receptor' that induces apoptosis when it's depleted of ligands.
Nanyang Technological University (NTU) hosted a chip design competition to encourage energy-efficient innovation. The winning team, from Institute of Microelectronics, developed an ultra-low-power wireless implantable blood flow sensing microsystem for vascular graft applications.
Researchers developed an all-natural foliar spray that enhances plants' innate 'anti-freeze' properties, reducing cold damage and mortality by up to 1 USDA hardiness zone. The non-toxic spray is friendly to both plants and the environment.
Researchers used Hubble Space Telescope data to rule out some proposed progenitor systems for Type Ia supernovae. The study suggests that the companion star was likely a normal star like our sun, a subgiant, or possibly a white dwarf.
Researchers have discovered that robins' red breast varies in size and coloration over ages and sexes, suggesting it may be used to communicate features of the owner to other robins.
Recent research in Madagascar reveals that illegal hunting of protected species, including lemurs, is widespread due to increasing appetites for meat and declining traditional taboos. The study suggests that improving access to domestic meats and disease control methods can help reduce pressure on wild species.
In a study co-authored by Cornell University researcher Harry Greene, men are attacked by giant pythons but also target them for food, competing for the same local deer, wild pigs, and monkeys. The complex relationships between humans and snakes highlight broader patterns of predation and competition in the natural world.
A new test, 'impurity profiling,' identifies impurities in nerve gas samples at crime scenes and matches them to source chemicals, pinpointing likely sources. This technique may help track down perpetrators of chemical attacks.
The Duke researchers have calculated the thermoelectric properties of over 2,500 compounds and provided detailed recipes for creating the most efficient combinations. This new database will allow scientists to stop using trial-and-error methods and instead use a rational basis to design thermoelectric devices.
Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) is rapidly increasing in the U.S., mainly related to obesity and diabetes. Researchers found excellent post-transplantation survival rates among NASH patients, with one-year survival rates near 88%.
A study published in Medical Care explores ways to empower patients and transform cancer care systems to improve quality. Researchers propose new approaches, including accountable care and personal health records, to address racial disparities and wasteful overuse.
Thomas Jefferson University researchers have created a human immune system mouse model that closely mimics the response to a tick-borne infection in humans. The study found that mice developed B1b-like cells, specialized antibody-producing systems used to fight bacterial pathogens, which helped resolve the infection.
Researchers at Queen's University identified a new mechanism that could explain immune resistance in cancer cells, suggesting nitroglycerin may boost the body's natural immune response to cancer. The discovery sheds light on the role of hypoxia and ADAM10 enzyme production in cancer cell resistance.
Scientists at Duke University discovered that shear strain can cause particles like coffee beans and coal chunks to jam sooner than expected. This finding challenges previous theories and has implications for designing new composite materials and countermeasures against weapons of mass destruction.
A study published in PLOS ONE shows that 2 megapixel camera phones can capture clear microscopy images for confirmation and analysis by specialists. This technology has the potential to improve medical diagnosis in remote areas, empowering undereducated healthcare workers.
An international team of scientists has discovered that a recently exploded supernova was a 'white dwarf' star, challenging the long-held theory that it was a red giant. The finding provides direct evidence that white dwarfs are responsible for Type Ia supernovae.
A study by Spanish researchers found that 43% of fresh orange juice samples exceeded acceptable enterobacteriaceae levels, highlighting the need for proper handling and cleaning of oranges and juicer equipment. The study also revealed that storing juice in metal jugs led to unacceptable bacterial contamination levels.
Researchers developed two new QCancer algorithms to predict patients most likely to have pancreatic and bowel cancer, improving early diagnosis and treatment options. The calculators were successful in predicting 62% of pancreatic cancers and 70% of bowel cancers diagnosed over the following two years.
Researchers at KIT biologists identified key factors controlling thalamus development, enabling potential tissue replacement therapy for stroke patients. They are now developing 2D cell culture systems and 3D cultivation projects to activate these factors in undifferentiated cells.
Astronomers are observing a unique opportunity to study how a black hole gulps gas, dust, and stars as it grows bigger. The gas cloud is currently 550 Kelvin or 280 degrees Celsius and will be ripped apart by the tidal forces around the black hole.
Researchers discovered a novel viral oncogenesis mechanism in which KSHV co-opts cellular signaling pathways and modifies the microenvironment for viral replication. The virus induces EndMT, giving rise to infected invasive cells, allowing efficient spread of the virus.
A University of Maryland study found that restricting blood transfusions after hip surgery did not harm patients and may even be unnecessary for some. The research included over 2,000 patients with anemia after hip fracture and showed no significant difference in recovery rates between those who received moderate transfusions and those...
A new study found that magnetic stimulation can improve visual-spatial abilities in people with hemispatial neglect, a common condition after a right-sided stroke. The treatment, which uses transcranial magnetic stimulation, also restored balance to the brain's circuits and improved cognitive and movement abilities.
Research by Virginia Tech's Karen A. Roberto found that elderly women are nearly twice as likely to fall victim to financial abuse, while younger males between 30-59 commit most cases. Seniors can prevent financial abuse with awareness and precautions.
Astronomers have observed the closest Type Ia supernova in decades, providing direct evidence for what a carbon-oxygen white dwarf looks like before it explodes. The study reveals that the supernova's progenitor was likely a binary system with a small white-dwarf star orbiting a companion.
Researchers at Vanderbilt University discovered a new way to enhance thermal conductivity, allowing for cooler computer chips and lasers. The technique involves controlling the interface between two thin strips of material, such as boron nanoribbons, with different solutions.
Astronomers have discovered a unique new object, a dusty ionized gas cloud, nearly doubling its speed in seven years and approaching the event horizon of the black hole. The cloud will break apart completely over the next few years due to external pressure and gravitational pull.
Teenage cigarette and alcohol use has declined to its lowest point since the survey began in 1975, with 18.7% of 12th-graders reporting current cigarette use. However, alternate tobacco products, marijuana, and prescription drug abuse continue to be concerns, with high rates of abuse reported among teens.
Astronomers have determined how a Type Ia supernova occurs, involving a dense white dwarf and main-sequence star. The study provides new insights into the universe's expansion and cosmic origins.
Scientists have developed a new cotton fabric that uses a titanium dioxide coating to clean itself of stains and bacteria when exposed to ordinary sunlight. The coating accelerates discoloration processes and remains intact after washing and drying.
A new study finds that overall hospital admission rates are a significant factor in high readmission rates across different US regions. The research suggests that improving transitional care may not be enough to address the root cause of the problem.
The Senate Aging Committee's 50th anniversary highlights pressing issues facing older Americans, including housing, healthcare, and workforce changes. Experts advocate for policy reforms to meet the needs of an aging society, emphasizing intergenerational cooperation and inclusivity.
The Concord Consortium has received a $2.5 million grant from Google.org to create digital curricula that model the 'textbook of tomorrow.' The organization aims to provide deeply digital learning experiences for science, mathematics, and engineering.
Researchers found that treating iron deficiency may help prevent potentially lethal blood clots, as low iron levels are strongly associated with higher levels of factor VIII and increased risk of pulmonary emboli/deep venous thromboses. The study suggests a potential new risk factor for blood clots in the general population.
A new study reveals that male chamois in different populations employ distinct breeding strategies, including 'terminal investment', where they focus on reproduction later in life. This variation could have implications for wildlife management, particularly when it comes to hunting practices.
Paul Ruby, diagnosed with young-onset Parkinson's in 2006, founded the Paul Ruby Foundation to raise funds for Northwestern Medicine researchers working towards a cure. The foundation has contributed over $325,000 to Parkinson's research, including a recent $100,000 gift.
Researchers found that chrysanthemum plants adapted to irregular light periods, promoting rapid leaf development. The study's results suggest that these changes can be induced by low average light intensity, potentially reducing supplemental lighting costs in greenhouses.
Scientists have developed a top-down approach to impose chirality on non-chiral molecules, which could lead to custom-designed properties and desired effects in various fields. The researchers created a twist by rotating liquid crystal molecules along different directions, resulting in induced chirality.
The California Academy of Sciences discovered 140 new species in 2011, including arthropods, sea slugs, fishes, plants, sponges, corals, and a reptile. These findings add to the family tree of life on Earth and provide crucial information for conservation decisions.
The POBASCAM trial found HPV testing to be more sensitive and effective at detecting precancerous lesions, with fewer high-grade cervical lesions and cervical cancer in the second round of screening. HPV testing can lead to earlier detection and treatment of lesions, improving protection against cervical cancer.
A new study shows that expanding 'ocean dead zones' driven by climate change is shrinking the useable habitat for blue marlin and other pelagic fish in the tropical northeast Atlantic Ocean. This compression of habitat due to low oxygen levels threatens the sustainability of these fisheries.
Researchers used functional MRI to assess cerebral activity in doctors while they diagnosed lesions. The results showed that the brain areas active during this task were strikingly similar to those activated while naming line drawings of animals.
Introducing new knee replacement models can lead to increased risk of early revision surgery, especially for the first 15 patients. A study published in Clinical Orthopaedics and Related Research found that hospital staff must consider the consequences of their decisions when choosing implants and instruments.
Scientists at Lawson Research Institute are testing stereotactic ablative radiotherapy (SABR) to treat cancers that spread beyond the original tumor, offering new hope for survival. The COMET Trial aims to assess SABR's impact on patient survival, side effects, and quality of life.
Researchers have developed a precise method to create microresonators in optical fibers, enabling the creation of 'Whispering Gallery' structures that can store tiny packets of light. This innovation has the potential to revolutionize computing with faster calculations and more efficient memory storage.
A roundtable discussion published in Journal of Caffeine Research explores whether caffeine enhances athletic performance, with experts noting mixed study data and various factors affecting its impact. The journal also covers a wide range of effects on human health, including mood disorders and cardiovascular disease.
A new study by Texas AgriLife Research found that artichoke yield and quality are optimized through differential irrigation regimes and nitrogen fertilizer rates. The researchers recommend approximately 700 mm of water inputs and 120 kg/ha or less of N for high marketable yields and optimal nutritional quality.
Astronomers detected a nearby Type Ia supernova with unprecedented observation of initial stages, characterizing the nature of forming stars. NSF's Cyber-Enabled Discovery program supported computational framework for rapid detection and characterization.
A toxin produced by Mycoplasma pneumoniae has been found to initiate and intensify asthma and other allergic airway diseases in humans, animals, and patients. The discovery is supported by a $11.5 million grant and provides new insights into the role of chronic infectious states in lung disease.
A study by the Missouri Botanical Garden found that over 24% of water extracts and 76% of alcoholic extracts from Peruvian medicinal plant species contained elevated toxicity levels. This highlights the need for proper preparation methods to account for varying toxicity levels in traditional remedies.
New Caledonian crows show expertise in tool use, adapting their technique to optimize performance. The study reveals that these crows possess cognitive mechanisms beyond simple associative learning, allowing them to understand the functional properties of novel tool types.
The Office of Naval Research has demonstrated a new suite of information technology tools that could improve fleet operations by enabling seamless data sharing between ship systems. The technology, known as the universal gateway system, securely passes data between a ship's combat system network and its command-and-control network.
A new mouse model has been developed to study allergy to fenugreek, a common ingredient in Asian dishes. The model can also be used to understand suspected cross-reactivity with peanuts and other legumes, which may pose a special problem for food-allergic people.