The study found significant racial disparities in children's media use, with minority youth spending an average of 13 hours per day on media compared to 9.5 hours for their white counterparts. Minority youth also tend to watch more TV and listen to music, while Asian youth spend more time playing video games and using computers.
A study found that circulating levels of surfactant protein-D were associated with cardiovascular disease and mortality in patients with coronary artery disease, independent of other risk factors. Blood levels of SP-D increase when the lungs are inflamed, such as in smokers or those with chronic lung conditions like COPD.
Researchers found that poplar bud extract has moderate antioxidant activity and demonstrates anti-aging effects on cells in laboratory tests. The study suggests potential use of poplar bud compounds in cosmetic and nutraceutical formulations for skin care.
Despite scientific evidence linking BPA to human health problems, regulators question the accuracy of study methods. BPA is widely used in consumer goods and food packaging, raising concerns about exposure levels.
Researchers recommend a national strategy for therapeutic cancer vaccines, focusing on cancers with poor treatment options. Vaccines targeting such cancers may offer better survival rates and fewer side effects than current treatments.
A Harvard expert investigates brown spots on King Tut's tomb walls, discovering they are not living organisms but rather dead microbes. The analysis of the spots reveals that the tomb was buried in an unusual hurry, with moisture and food providing a bountiful environment for microbial growth.
System 98A has intensified due to warm waters of the Arabian Sea and reduced convection inhibiting effects, with cold cloud tops indicating heavy rainmaking capabilities. The system is forecast to drift northwest and may strengthen into a tropical storm within 24 hours.
University of Pennsylvania researchers have developed a way to form biological molecules that can be directly integrated into electronic circuits. A new microscope technique was also developed to measure the electrical properties of these devices.
Researchers at Institut de recherches cliniques de Montréal have identified a key molecule directing axons during neural circuit formation. VEGF plays a crucial role in attracting nervous system axons, offering potential for therapies to re-grow axons after spinal cord injuries.
A study published in Neuron identified many small genetic variations associated with autism, including a key region that may explain human social behavior. The research suggests that autism is caused by many small genetic defects rather than one major defect.
A clinically extensive study of 1000 families with one autistic child and one unaffected sibling validated the importance of spontaneous causal mutations in autism. The study estimates a minimum of 250 to 300 locations in the human genome where gene copy number variation can give rise to autism spectrum disorder.
A new study published in Ophthalmic Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery suggests that medical management may be preferred over surgery for children with orbital cellulitis. The research identifies the size of a subperiosteal abscess (SPA) as a determining factor in whether surgery is required for treatment.
Researchers at NIST have demonstrated a unique fluid-tuned 'metasurface,' which can concentrate energy in a material and change its properties. The metasurface's resonant frequency can be tuned by adding purified water, allowing it to reflect, store, or transmit energy.
A new analysis finds that most countries participating in REDD+ cite agriculture as the main cause of deforestation, but few provide details on how to address this issue. Countries pursuing food and biofuel production policies are intensifying agriculture-related pressures on forest lands.
A new study at Oregon Health & Science University found that immediate IUD insertion after abortion significantly reduces unintended pregnancies compared to delayed insertion. The study also highlighted the challenges of accessing IUDs due to federal policy restrictions.
Researchers have developed new tissue engineering methods to treat joint damage in osteoarthritis, including implantation of biomaterial scaffolds that guide cell growth and regeneration. The technology has shown promise in promoting cartilage tissue repair and regeneration.
A study analyzing stock market volatility over 50 years reveals the existence of hidden temporal order and high correlations between fear-driven market fluctuations and price variations. This discovery implies that traditional investment strategies should incorporate consideration for the 'volatility of volatility' in portfolio design.
A team from the University of Sheffield has discovered a novel mechanism that potentially accounts for the development of many different types of lymphoma. The research found that B-cells are deficient in one of the main DNA repair pathways, which explains why strong UV exposure is a major environmental risk factor for the disease.
A team of scientists has created a new 3D tumor model that can grow in a realistic and easily accessible substrate, speeding up cancer drug discovery. The model's 3D nature provides a more accurate representation of how tumors grow in the body, reducing the likelihood of promising drugs failing during animal testing.
A study found that Americans often regret lacking strong social relationships and higher education. Regret can be painful but also useful, motivating individuals to improve their lives.
A potent toxin, ciguatoxin, has been discovered in Hawaiian monk seals, posing a significant threat to their dwindling population. The toxin accumulates in fish consumed by humans and causes acute gastrointestinal and neurological illness.
In a study of moustached tamarins, researchers found that 75% of infants survive with male help, but only 41.7% without. Female infanticide occurs when mothers kill their own offspring due to social competition and high levels of prenatal stress.
Tropical Storm Adrian forms in the Eastern Pacific Ocean, strengthening with high cloud tops and moderate rainfall, triggering a tropical storm watch in Mexico. The storm is forecast to reach hurricane strength by the National Hurricane Center.
A study published in Cancer Research found a link between the ABCB5 marker and treatment resistance in colorectal cancers. The researchers discovered that eliminating cells expressing ABCB5 is crucial for successful treatment, supporting the cancer stem cell hypothesis. This finding has significant translational and therapeutic relevance.
Researchers found that root grafting between individual jack pine trees increased radial growth rates and allowed for the sharing of resources such as water, photosynthates, and nutrients. This cooperative behavior challenges the traditional view of trees as competitors and suggests a new strategy for tree interactions.
A new study reveals that women are more likely to be referred for unnecessary nuclear stress tests than men, with a majority of inappropriate studies ordered by primary care physicians. The research suggests that education among primary care providers is needed to improve test ordering for women.
A group of ecologists has issued a call to reevaluate the impact of non-native species on ecosystems, challenging traditional assumptions about their effects. Research highlights that some native species also have negative consequences, such as decimating pine forests.
A UC Davis study of a tiny seashore animal found that climate change may already be pushing these organisms beyond their limits, despite potential for some adaptation. The study suggests many species face environmental stress due to fragmentation and climate change, making natural selection less effective.
The MU GK-12 Program aims to enhance science content and motivation in 4th and 5th graders, while teaching graduate students effective communication skills. Graduate fellows will work with elementary school teachers and engage students in scientific research processes.
A study published in Ecology Letters found that the last glacial maximum has a significant impact on the current distribution of European scarab dung beetles. The insects' presence is more influenced by the climate of the past glaciation than the present one, with two distinct patterns emerging in the north and south.
Researchers at Baylor College of Medicine and Texas Children's Hospital mapped the interactome for autism spectrum disorder, identifying hundreds of new protein interactions. The study also confirms previously known connections and reveals unsuspected connectivity between genes associated with idiopathic and syndromic autism.
The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) hosted three robotics competitions to prove advanced robotics and microrobotics technologies. The Virtual Manufacturing Automation Competition and Mobile Microrobotics Challenge evaluated teams' ability to assemble components and navigate microbots, respectively.
A study of male rhesus macaques found that they steer clear of red-clad humans and steal food from the other tray, indicating an aversion to red. The researchers believe this reflects an evolutionary adaptation reflecting our species' social nature.
The Conservation Genetics Lab uses genetic techniques to identify inbred populations and introduce new genetic variation. They also apply this technique to endangered species in captive breeding programs and use DNA evidence to catch wildlife criminals.
Researchers identified rare genetic variations in children with autism spectrum disorders, including duplications and deletions of DNA regions. These findings suggest a diversity of genetic causes for the disease and highlight the importance of targeting specific subtypes of autism for effective treatment.
A Scripps Research scientist has won a grant to study the malaria parasite in the liver, aiming to develop better drugs to combat the disease. The research will focus on understanding pathways essential to parasite development in both blood and liver stages.
A new study found that psychology majors' median starting salary of $35,300 is well below the average for college graduates. Advanced degrees also do not seem to improve earnings in this field.
Scientists at NIST have developed a method to capture metal-based nanoparticles on a surface and release them at the desired moment, allowing for effective assessment of their toxicity in cell cultures. This approach enables precise delivery of particles to cells, mimicking real-world encounters, and reducing clumping issues.
Researchers found that only one-quarter of water molecules at the surface exhibit characteristics of both gas and liquid phases, allowing for new understanding of chemical reactions and atmospheric balance. The study provides a framework for investigating other interfaces, such as those in living cells.
A new Temple University study analyzes distracted driving laws passed between 1992 and 2010, revealing significant variation in laws across states. The research highlights the need for systematic evaluation of distracted driving laws to inform effective policy-making.
Researchers have found that shingles may be associated with an increased risk of developing multiple sclerosis, particularly in the year following a shingles attack. The study suggests that this risk is still relatively low and varies by geographical location and income.
A new animal study finds that a high-fat diet can cause inflammation and injury to brain cells in the hypothalamus, leading to weight gain. The research suggests that this neuronal injury may be permanent, contributing to the difficulty of achieving sustained weight loss in obese individuals.
Researchers at UC Davis discovered the mechanism of cilia assembly, revealing two subunits of tubulin that, when mutated, cause cilia loss. This breakthrough has implications for understanding diseases like polycystic kidney disease and growth disorders.
The Wildlife Conservation Society has received a $150,000 grant to support efforts by eco-guards to protect Grauer's gorillas in Kahuzi-Biega National Park. The grant will help equip park rangers with field equipment to monitor and limit poaching within the park.
Two independent microarray studies and a gene network analysis confirm that spontaneous genetic mutations underlie many autism cases. The research identifies an array of genetic variants linked to increased risk of developing an autism spectrum disorder.
Researchers have developed a genetically humanized mouse model for hepatitis C, enabling the testing of molecules that block the virus's entry into cells. The new model has the potential to serve as a critical role in prioritizing drug and vaccine candidates.
A new study found a significant decline in heart attack rates among London civil servants over 20 years, primarily due to improvements in cholesterol levels, blood pressure, and reduced smoking. However, the rise in body mass index (BMI) may reverse this trend in the future.
Researchers at Ames Laboratory discovered citrate plays a crucial role in the nanostructure of bones, providing stiffness and preventing crack propagation. Higher citrate concentrations result in thinner apatite nanocrystals, which are more resistant to brittleness.
The planet's soils face unprecedented threats from erosion and human activity, which can lead to loss of food production, carbon storage, and biodiversity. International research efforts aim to develop mathematical models to predict soil changes and design solutions to mitigate these impacts.
Researchers successfully imaged rod photoreceptors in the living human eye for the first time, revealing cellular structure with unprecedented detail. This breakthrough enables earlier diagnosis and treatment of degenerative eye disorders, potentially leading to more effective sight-saving interventions.
River flooding increases PBDEs in farm soils but not in milk from grazing cows. Milk consumption remains a potential source of human exposure to toxic chemicals.
A new study reveals that certain types of chronic pain may be caused by signals from the skin itself, rather than damage to nerves within the skin. Skin cells generate increased amounts of a lesser-known 'beta' isoform of CGRP, which may be sending pain signals to remaining sensory nerve fibers in the skin.
Research suggests that urban woodlands with moderate clearance (less than 50% of understory removal) support high bird diversity while still allowing for rambling opportunities. The findings have implications for forest management to balance ecological and social values.
Research suggests that the swine flu outbreak of winter 2009-2010 was more widespread than previously realized, with almost half of Scottish adults carrying antibodies to the virus. The study found that people from deprived areas were twice as likely to contract the virus.
Researchers found significant biodiversity loss in streams with less than 2% developed land, contrary to previous estimates. Chemical pollution is implied as a major contributor to the degradation of water quality.
A validated scale measures concern about cancer in healthy people and evaluates the effectiveness of genetic counseling. The 'Escala de Preocupación por el Cáncer' tool is a reliable instrument for healthcare professionals to identify patients with high levels of fear, alerting them to preventive testing.
Researchers found synaptophysin controls vesicle replacement, potentially leading to new treatments for learning deficits. The study may also help explain why people with synaptophysin mutations experience mental retardation.
Researchers at Einstein College of Medicine identified a key player in breast cancer spread, CCL2, which recruits immune cells to facilitate tumor growth. By blocking CCL2 signaling, they found potential for halting or slowing metastatic disease.
A team of astronomers led by Caltech has discovered a new type of supernovae that was previously unknown. The four newly found supernovae have similar spectral signatures, indicating they are all part of the same class. This discovery provides insight into star formation, distant galaxies, and the early universe.
A new study found that older adults who engage in regular moderate to intense exercise are 40% less likely to develop small brain lesions, also known as 'silent strokes'. This reduces the risk of falls, memory problems, dementia, and stroke. Exercise does not appear to have a similar benefit for those with limited access to healthcare.
Researchers say stem cell therapeutics may offer therapy through simple cell replacement procedures to restructure damaged organs and tissues. However, factors related to patient selection need careful consideration due to stage and severity of disease, prior therapies, and immunosuppression.
Researchers at University of Western Ontario discovered how biochemical pathways can be rewired in cancer cells to resist apoptosis, a key process in normal cell turnover. This 'rewiring' allows cancer cells to ignore death signals and potentially evade therapy.
A new study found that Walmart proposed more stores in pro-business states near the borders of less friendly states, even in the face of protests. This discovery provides evidence of how firms engage in regulatory arbitrage and make decisions about where to open stores.
A Finnish twin study suggests that adaptation of fat cell membranes to obesity may play a key role in early stages of inflammatory disorders. The study found that obese individuals have higher amounts of certain lipids in their adipose tissues, which may help preserve membrane function as cells expand.
A new combination of a breast cancer chemotherapy agent and an artificial antibody has been tested in clinical trials, showing promising results in targeting colon cancer cells. The treatment, which combines lapatinib with monoclonal antibodies, has the potential to provide hope for patients with treatment-resistant cancers.
Scientists at Virginia Commonwealth University have discovered a new class of 'superatoms' with magnetic characteristics, mimicking different elements of the periodic table. The discovery could lead to significant developments in molecular electronics and quantum computing.
A CU-Boulder study indicates that mountain pine beetle infestations could lead to earlier snowmelt and increased water yields. The research found that dead trees with red needles accumulated more snow than living stands, while those with gray phase trees melted faster due to reduced snow interception and increased solar radiation.
Kinsley French receives NSF Research Fellowship to study protein aggregates and HIV transmission. Her research aims to understand how aggregates form, laying the groundwork for developing a new therapeutic against HIV transmission.
Researchers at UCSD have discovered a novel signaling pathway and gene, Wnt16, essential for the formation of hematopoietic stem cells in vertebrate embryos. This breakthrough has significant implications for developing stem cell-based therapies for diseases such as leukemia.
A study by McGill University found that socio-economic status affects Canadians' health-related quality of life from a young age. The research analyzed data from 17,000 Canadians and found that poorer individuals start out less healthy than their wealthier counterparts and remain so over their lifetimes.
A new study reveals that jellyfish blooms drastically alter marine food webs by shunting food energy toward bacteria. This shift can lead to a detour of energy away from higher trophic levels and towards bacteria, altering the microbial community composition.