A recent study found that thinking about choices can make people less sympathetic to others and less likely to support policies promoting greater equality. This effect was observed across different cultures, including the US and India, with Indian participants being less affected by choice-related thinking.
Researchers created a new bitterness blocker, GIV3616, to make nutritious foods more enjoyable and mask unpleasant flavors. The compound is more potent and efficient than previous versions, offering hope for supertasters and individuals with heightened sensitivity to bitter tastes.
A new study from the University of Oregon found that even brief skills training can enhance supportive responses to disclosures of mistreatment. The training focused on verbal and nonverbal ways of conveying support, and listeners who received this training demonstrated significantly fewer unsupportive behaviors.
A new Nature paper suggests that carbon labeling can encourage both consumers and manufacturers to make better environmental choices. By providing information on product carbon footprints, labeling can reduce emissions in households by influencing consumer decisions and encouraging firms to identify efficiencies in their supply chains.
A new study published in Gastroenterology found that an automated colonoscopy reminder system significantly improved adherence to endoscopic follow-up recommendations, particularly in minority populations. The system, which included a letter and telephone call, nearly doubled the rate of recommended exams.
Researchers at Stanford University have developed a battery that can generate electricity by exploiting the difference in salinity between freshwater and seawater. The battery, which uses sodium and chlorine ions, has achieved 74% efficiency in converting potential energy to electrical current.
A Danish study examines the relationship between soil texture and nutrient leaching in agricultural fields. The results show that injecting dairy slurry into loam soil reduces phosphorus leaching, while its effect on sandy loam and loamy sand is limited.
Researchers at UAB have discovered that blocking a specific receptor on glioma cells can starve them of nutrients, effectively stopping their invasion in the brain. The target is a drug already approved for use in Europe, which increases blood vessel size.
The Human Frontier Science Program has awarded 85 Fellowships to young scientists from around the world. The Long-Term and Cross-Disciplinary Fellows will receive training in 12 different countries, while Career Development Awards support their transition to independence.
Research suggests that frequent fat talk among college women is associated with increased body dissatisfaction, regardless of waistline. The study found that over half of the participants believed fat talk made them feel better about their bodies, but it's actually exacerbating body image disturbance.
A new nanodrug breaks down barriers to attack breast cancer cells by carrying multiple drugs that accumulate in tumor cells and strike cancer-specific molecular targets. This targeted approach shows promise as a more effective treatment method than standard treatment, with the potential to be tailored for various disorders.
A study found that genetic mutations leading to HIV/AIDS resistance in infants may develop from maternal antiretroviral drugs via breastfeeding. The authors suggest monitoring infants exposed to breast milk with low levels of ARVs and tailoring treatment accordingly.
Researchers at Kansas State University have developed a nanotechnology-based biosensor that can detect cancer cells and pathogens, leading to improved food safety and reduced health risks. The device uses carbon nanofibers to capture and detect microbial particles, enabling early detection and prevention of outbreaks.
Research from Ohio State University finds that women's body image is more closely tied to social acceptance than BMI, with those who focus on internal bodily functions and less on appearance experiencing healthier attitudes towards their bodies. Women who perceive strong social support are more likely to engage in intuitive eating.
Scientists discover a new coating material made from flyash that can extend the life of concrete structures by decades, saving taxpayer money. The coating is hundreds of times more durable than existing ones and costs half as much.
Researchers develop innovative strategy to target tumor metabolism, block energy production required for malignant cancer growth, delaying tumor volume and spread. The treatment combines ultrasound-guided intra-tumoral delivery of a potent drug with imaging guidance to minimize healthy tissue exposure.
Researchers found that blocking carbon dioxide fixation enables bacteria to produce more hydrogen gas, a promising biofuel. The Calvin cycle, responsible for carbon dioxide fixation, competes with hydrogen production for electrons.
Scientists have developed bacteria that produce disease-fighting substances and deliver them to diseased areas of the body. The 'bacterial dirigibles' use biochemical delivery addresses to navigate to specific cells, producing substances to fight diseases.
A study of pregnant women using intrauterine devices found that over half had malpositioned devices, which may increase pregnancy complications. Regular sonograms after IUD placement can help confirm proper positioning and reduce risks.
Researchers followed 350 students in seven at-risk schools over a 5-year period, finding that well-behaved students were more likely to achieve academically. However, teachers' expectations and perceptions of student behavior played a significant role in determining academic outcomes.
A new microfluidic device, developed by MIT researchers, can detect single cancer cells in a blood sample and also identify viruses like HIV. This device has the potential to revolutionize cancer diagnosis and make it more accessible in developing countries.
Adam H. Buchanan, a board-certified genetic counselor and research scientist at Duke University, won the award for his platform presentation on telemedicine vs in-person cancer genetic counseling in rural oncology clinics. He found that telemedicine-based counseling was as well accepted as in-person counseling at less than half the cost.
Scientists have isolated two chemicals from an ancient herb that can block melanin production, making it a promising alternative to toxic skin whitening creams. The chemicals are 100 times more effective in reducing melanin pigmentation than common skin whitening agents.
The article reviews the composition and flavor chemistry of the Bloody Mary, highlighting key components and their sensory attributes. Researcher Neil C. Da Costa provides insights on how to make a good Bloody Mary, including using fresh ingredients, ice, and high-quality tomato juice.
A major UK study on anaesthesia complications shows obese patients are twice as likely to develop serious airway problems during a general anaesthetic. Routine monitoring of breathing with a capnograph could significantly reduce deaths and brain damage from such problems in intensive care units.
Three winning solutions were selected from 64 submissions, including triple fortifying salt and microencapsulation of folic acid, aiming to improve interventions for preventing infant mortality and birth defects. Scientists Without Borders will now work with the solvers to advance their ideas into viable and scalable interventions.
The study reveals species shifts over the past century, with some populations significantly diminished or expanded. Elk were more abundant in the 1990s than today, while horses from the late 1800s are common in the skeletal record.
Scientists at Cardiff University discovered that spiders can intercept and use vibrational signals from insects to locate their prey. The study found that male leafhopper vibrations are more attractive to predatory spiders, suggesting a preference for males during courtship.
A study found that contaminated fungi attached to ryegrass roots help plants absorb toxic contaminants like acenaphthene. This process affects not only plant health but also poses risks to human health through environmental exposure.
Scientists have developed a powerful new technique to visualize the underpaintings of famous artworks by Rembrandt, Caravaggio, and Rubens. The scanning macro X-ray fluorescence analysis allows for detailed imaging of the composition of underpaintings without harming priceless artwork.
Mothers who experienced childhood abuse are at increased risk of giving birth to low-birth-weight babies. Childhood poverty and substance use also contribute to this risk, which can lead to infant mortality and chronic health problems later in life.
A new free iPhone app, iResus, has been shown to improve doctors' performance in simulated medical emergencies. The study found that doctors who used the app scored significantly higher than those who relied on memory alone.
Researchers confirmed that uterine fibroid embolization effectively reduces fibroid-related urinary symptoms, improving quality of life for women. The treatment blocks blood vessels to fibroids, causing them to shrink and symptoms subside.
A Spanish study reveals that babies who sleep with their smoker parents exhibit three times higher nicotine levels than those in separate rooms. The researchers found that ventilating bedrooms does not effectively reduce toxin exposure from passive smoking.
The Canadian Cardiovascular Society and Canadian Heart Rhythm Society have published comprehensive guidelines on the use of genetic testing in managing patients with inherited heart rhythm disorders. The guidelines emphasize the importance of ordering physicians having a clear understanding of ethical issues surrounding genetic testing.
Researchers found that a specific type of immune cell attacks the heart muscle because it fails to develop tolerance against a unique protein. This leads to inflammation and potentially fatal consequences, highlighting the need for targeted therapies. The study's findings have significant implications for treating autoimmune myocarditis.
Andrew B. Crummy, M.D., FSIR; Gordon K. McLean, M.D., FSIR, and Peter B. Lauer, CAE, received SIR's Gold Medals for their contributions to interventional radiology and cardiovascular medicine. The award recognizes their advancements in digital subtraction arteriography and other procedures.
A small trial found that a proprietary antioxidant mixture taken before CT scans reduced DNA injury by up to 50%. The formula, administered orally, neutralized free radicals caused by X-rays and protected against cell damage.
Major lineages of flowering plants began to rapidly diversify after reaching a point of development that maximized speciation success. The researchers compiled the largest plant phylogeny to date, involving 55,473 species of angiosperms.
Scientists have developed the first commercially viable nanogenerator that can generate electricity using body movements like a finger pinch. The device is powered by zinc oxide nanowires and has improved power output by thousands times and voltage by 150 times.
The Society of Interventional Radiology Foundation named Dr. Jeanne M. LaBerge the 2011 Dotter Lecturer, honoring her extraordinary contributions to interventional radiology. She is also a leader in innovation, with awards recognizing her research and education efforts.
A study published in Nature Chemical Biology reveals that mutations in the p53 protein lead to protein aggregation, disrupting its protective function. This causes uncontrolled cell growth and tumor formation, highlighting a new mechanism for cancer development.
Researchers at the University of Michigan have developed a new drug called AT-406 that effectively targets proteins blocking normal cell death, leading to tumor cell death while sparing normal cells. The drug has shown promising results in animal models, shrinking tumors with minimal side effects.
Researchers at Berkeley Lab have fabricated a perovskite-based superlens that captures evanescent light waves in the mid-infrared range, enabling highly sensitive biomedical detection and imaging. The superlens achieves an imaging resolution of one micrometer, surpassing the diffraction limit of conventional lenses.
A new medical device developed using submarine technology detects, diagnoses, and monitors stroke with high accuracy. The device can differentiate between normal brain activity and life-threatening conditions, allowing immediate treatment to begin.
Stepchildren build positive or negative relationships with stepparents based on their evaluations of stepparents' behaviors and overall family situation. Researchers identified six patterns of step-relationship development from stepchildren's perspectives.
A new study proposes a communications strategy to improve layman understanding of climate science, focusing on strategic organization and strategic listening. The authors argue that scientists should work in cross-disciplinary teams and use systematic feedback to evaluate their communication skills.
Research suggests that most second cancers are due to lifestyle and genetics, not radiotherapy. The study found an estimated 8% proportion of second cancers related to radiotherapy, with higher risks for younger patients and organs exposed to higher radiation doses.
A new study found that the most toxic and brightly colored poison frog species are also physically fit, with higher aerobic capacity than their non-toxic cousins. This is due to their specialized diet of ants and mites, which requires them to forage further and exercise more.
Scientists demonstrate a novel mechanism for Chagas disease's devastating effects: a parasite-driven autoimmune response that alters host genome. This chicken model reveals the origin of Chagas-like heart disease in the absence of parasitism, shedding new light on this lethal endemic infectious disease.
Researchers at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute have developed a targeted therapy strategy that slows the progression of NUT midline carcinoma in children. The approach uses an HDAC inhibitor to distract cancer proteins from their usual activity, causing cells to behave like normal cells.
Zewail's 'ultrafast-motion' imaging provides deep insights into materials behavior and biological functions. His work has yielded qualitatively new insights into atomic and molecular origins of complex chemical, physical, and biological behavior.
Spanish researchers found that liver transplant recipients who quit smoking have a lower incidence of smoking-related malignancies, while active smoking increases the risk. Smoking cessation after liver transplantation reduces the incidence of malignancy, suggesting it may be a protective factor.
Anna-Kaisa Niemi, a resident in Medical Genetics at Stanford University Medical Center, received the 2011-2012 Genzyme/ACMG Clinical Genetics Fellowship in Biochemical Genetics. The fellowship supports clinicians in metabolic diseases diagnosis and treatment.
Earlier deep brain therapy shows better, quicker results for patients with potentially crippling dystonia. A study found that those treated earlier have better general outcomes, while age at surgery influences the time necessary to achieve optimal benefit.
A minimally invasive procedure, pelvic arterial embolization is a safe and effective treatment for postpartum hemorrhage, preserving the uterus and allowing resumption of menstruation. The study showed an initial clinical success rate of 86 percent, with repeat procedures increasing the overall bleeding control to 97.8 percent.
A Queensland University of Technology study found that 32.9% of women reported experiencing symptoms of postcoital dysphoria, with limited correlation to sexual abuse and psychological distress
A study of Joslin Medalists reveals that some individuals with diabetes for decades exhibit remarkably few complications, pointing to the presence of protective molecular mechanisms. The researchers identified a link between advanced glycation end products (AGEs) and both disease progression and protection.
A collaborative €12 million project, AvecNet, aims to secure the effectiveness of existing malaria control methods by developing and evaluating new insecticides and techniques. The project seeks to overcome insecticide resistance and increase knowledge about mosquito biology and behavior.
Removing manure solids through a low-cost two-stage lagoon system increases nitrogen to phosphorus ratio, reducing environmental damage. This results in higher crop yields and greater nitrogen recovery compared to using whole manure.
A Kaiser Permanente study found that people who slept 6-8 hours a night and reported lower stress levels lost more weight. The study involved nearly 500 participants who were trying to lose at least 10 pounds, and those with the lowest stress levels and adequate sleep were most likely to succeed.
The GPFARM-Range computer model allows ranchers to test various scenarios involving forage yields, weight gains, and stocking rates under different weather conditions. This research supports USDA's priority of promoting agricultural sustainability in the face of climate change.
A study by Mayo Clinic researchers found that the cost of heart medications is a significant deterrent for patients with heart failure. Younger patients and women were more likely to skip or not take their prescribed drugs due to financial concerns.
Karl Deisseroth, a Stanford University associate professor, is being recognized for his pioneering work in developing and using optogenetic approaches to study neuronal function. His technique has had far-reaching impact on ophthalmology and vision science.
New technology encasing antibiotics in nanofibers kills a variety of disease-causing bacteria and fungi, including Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The treatment boosts the power of antibiotics, making them effective for longer periods.
A study by UC Riverside's Charles Wyman and colleagues found a correlation between the S/G ratio and increased sugar yields in poplar tree candidates. The research could lead to less expensive production of biofuels with no pretreatment required, reducing the price of liquid transportation fuels.
A new interventional radiology treatment blocks blood supply to men's enlarged prostate glands, showing comparable clinical results to transurethral resection of the prostate. The minimally invasive treatment has none of the risks associated with TURP, such as sexual dysfunction and urinary incontinence.
A recent study from North Carolina State University emphasizes the importance of interdisciplinary approaches in healthcare IT development. The authors highlight the need for experts from various fields, including doctors and nurses, to be involved in product design, implementation, and research.
Researchers at Children's Hospital Los Angeles have discovered Eya1 protein phosphatase as a crucial regulator of embryonic lung epithelial stem cells. The correct functioning of these stem cells is essential for healthy lung development, and dysregulation has been linked to developmental disorders and cancer.
Two articles in PLOS Medicine emphasize the importance of addressing issues that restrict open access to information in developing countries. Experts propose improvements to journal quality assessment standards and increased collaboration between publishers, authors, and readers from these regions.
Household bleach is an effective, low-cost, and widely available way to decontaminate food preparation surfaces tainted with ricin. Bleach significantly reduces ricin toxicity within five minutes, making it a practical solution for inactivating the toxin.
Researchers at Arizona State University and the UK have created a platform using biological nanowires to funnel excess energy from photosynthesis directly into fuel production. This innovation aims to increase the efficiency of photosynthesis, enabling the production of sustainable bioenergy.
Researchers at Queen's University Belfast warn that the Irish hare faces a serious threat from the invading European 'brown' hare. The study suggests that disease, parasite transmission, and climate change may give the invasive species an edge over native species.
A new study using satellite data shows that the 2010 drought caused a dramatic decline in Amazon forest health, with over 2.5 million square kilometers affected. The researchers used computer models and real-time processing of massive amounts of satellite data to analyze the impact of the drought.
The Gulf Coast states and Washington D.C. are vulnerable to neglected infections of poverty due to extreme poverty and poor living conditions. Trichomoniasis and other vector-borne diseases are on the rise, highlighting the need for active surveillance programs and treatment/vaccination efforts.
A study at Michigan State University reveals a potential new way for plants to fend off pests through starvation. The research focuses on the enzyme threonine deaminase (TD2), which breaks down a key nutrient in caterpillars' stomachs, starving them.
Rebekah Stackpole Zimmerman received the Richard King Trainee Award for her manuscript on a custom resequencing array for Dilated Cardiomyopathy, published in Genetics in Medicine. The study validated the use of this array to sequence 19 genes associated with DCM, improving test cost and turnaround time by approximately 50%.