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%.
A Phase II trial of Gleevec (imatinib) has shown acceptable safety and tolerability, with hints of efficacy in treating diffuse scleroderma. The drug improved skin scores by 22% and forced vital capacity scores by 6.4% after 12 months of therapy.
Researchers found that people who used marijuana performed significantly worse in attention, speed of thinking, executive function, and visual perception, with some scoring approximately one third lower than non-users. The study suggests that prolonged marijuana use may add to the cognitive burden already experienced by MS patients.
A recent study by UCSD researchers found a significant inverse association between surgeon availability and road traffic injury-related deaths. Regions with more surgeons showed lower mortality rates, suggesting timely surgical treatment can reduce death risk.
A team of scientists has developed bioinspired materials that mimic the cell membrane, offering a promising approach for drug delivery and other applications. The materials, called dendrimersomes, show potential for being more stable, targeted, and effective than existing nanomaterials.
Researchers have shown that angioplasty to widen internal jugular and azygos veins is safe for multiple sclerosis patients. The treatment improved blood flow and reduced symptoms in 97% of patients with no significant complications.
A new study published in Geology reveals that rock formations along the Canadian-US border date back to 120 million years ago. The research suggests that ancient rivers flowing through western North America were separated by the modern-day border.
A study by molecular geneticist Shiva Singh found that even identical twins have distinct DNA profiles due to random genetic variations. The research uses monozygotic twins with one having schizophrenia to investigate the genetic determinants of schizophrenia.
Researchers have gained insight into how 'tidying up' enzymes, like cytochromes P450, break down drug molecules. The study reveals that the oxygen transfer process can be influenced by three factors: molecular docking, oxygen-accepting ability, and enzyme pocket shape.
A University of Arizona-led research team found that wind can be up to 100 times more effective at eroding mountains than previously thought. The study suggests that wind played a key role in shaping the Loess Plateau, with over half of its dust coming from the Qaidam Basin.
Research by the University of California - San Diego team discovered that icebergs cool and dilute ocean water, affecting phytoplankton distribution and carbon dioxide absorption. The findings suggest enhanced phytoplankton growth would increase carbon dioxide removal from the ocean.
A £6 million research programme aims to create new generation of high performance fibre reinforced polymer composites, capable of sustaining large deformations without breaking. The materials will provide greater reliability, safety and design flexibility, with the potential to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 15%.
A new study found that most US states lack clear policies on storing and using newborn blood samples, often leaving parents in the dark. The researchers emphasize the need for transparent approaches to ensure parents are informed about how their babies' leftover blood might be used.
Researchers estimate that airport backscatter scanners emit extremely low levels of radiation, comparable to natural exposure from the sun and earth. The analysis suggests that these devices do not significantly increase the lifetime risk of cancer for travelers, even frequent flyers.
The EURISGIC project aims to estimate geomagnetically induced current (GIC) risk using European archives and develop a prototype service for GIC forecasts. The project, involving 6 countries, will provide real-time solar wind measurements to improve power grid resilience.
Researchers used catheter-based renal denervation to treat resistant hypertension in 106 adult patients, achieving significant reductions in systolic and diastolic blood pressure after six months. The treatment has shown efficacy in lowering blood pressure and may have applicability in managing other diseases such as heart failure and ...
William Bertozzi, a renowned MIT professor, has been awarded the inaugural JSA Outstanding Nuclear Physicist Award for his pioneering work in experimental electromagnetic nuclear physics. The award acknowledges his leadership and innovative techniques that have advanced the field of nuclear physics.
Researchers explore why large, successful Maya communities were built near wetlands, finding that ancient environments and agricultural practices contributed to their success. The project sheds light on the Maya's 'edge farming' technique, which created fertile soils along the interface between uplands and swamps.
A new study found that nearly half of elderly men in their seventies underwent PSA screening, while those aged 85 and older screened just as often as those in their early fifties. The high rate of unnecessary screenings may lead to complications such as incontinence and impotence.
Researchers discovered that butterflies colonizing new habitats have distinct genetic traits, including faster egg maturation, higher energy metabolism, and superior flight ability. These traits provide an advantage for exploring new areas, potentially leading to the establishment of new populations.
A four-year study confirms that Y-90 radioembolization is a safe and effective treatment for patients with metastatic liver cancer, particularly those who have failed chemotherapy. The procedure preserves patient quality of life and extends life, while also demonstrating anti-tumoral effects.
Researchers have shown that an increase in the amount of donor DNA in recipient's blood is an early detectable sign of organ rejection. This finding may allow doctors to avoid high doses of medication required to combat more advanced cases of rejection.
Recent UC research on ancient Maya agroforestry and water-management systems at Tikal reveals that the forests were insufficient to meet the needs of Late Classic Maya populations, highlighting the importance of sustainable management techniques. The study also sheds light on how the ancient Maya built their water management systems, u...
A study by Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution scientists highlights the complex interaction between glacier ice, freshwater runoff, and warm ocean waters. The team found that warm waters at the base of Helheim Glacier influence glacier flow speed and melting rates.
Researchers have gained a deeper understanding of how nanowires form, thanks to a new theoretical model. The discovery reveals that the shape of catalyst particles controls the growth of nanowires and their crystal structure.
Dr. Hongwei Yu's lab will explore the factors controlling mucus overproduction and develop a treatment to inhibit alginate biofilm formation in CF patients. The grant aims to improve treatment of bacterial infections and enhance quality of life for CF patients.
Research by Geoff Hilton found that video production improved student understanding of scientific concepts, particularly when rehearsing for an audience. The study revealed that students who created videos showed better learning outcomes compared to those who produced written posters.
A study of nearly 2,700 adults with bipolar disorder found a genetic risk factor on chromosome 2 associated with increased attempts at self-harm. Genetic variants in the region were linked to a higher likelihood of attempting suicide, with those having two copies being almost three times as likely.
Researchers have invented fluorescent nano-particles that can continuously change colors to track molecules under a microscope. The color-changing particles, made with quantum dots, can be tailored to tag specific molecules and provide insights into biological processes.
A new approach to studying the brain uses a mathematical sequence to strengthen fMRI data, revealing how nerve cells represent information. This method measures changes in brain responses and corrects an important limitation of fMRI, making it more powerful than before.
A study by Joshua H. Miller analyzed the bones of Yellowstone's wildlife to understand population changes over time. The research found that native species populations have remained relatively stable, while others have expanded or contracted significantly.
A Canadian study of over 10,900 nursing home patients found that conventional antipsychotics, antidepressants, and benzodiazepines carried higher risks of death, femur fractures, and heart failure compared to atypical antipsychotics. The findings suggest a need for caution when prescribing these medications in this population.
Researchers found wolves rely on cattle for up to 45% of their summer diet in southwestern Alberta, shifting from wild prey in non-grazing seasons. Cattle make up a significant portion of wolf packs' scavenged feeding events, often located near bone yards and grazing areas.
A third of patients with resistant hypertension were found to have 'white coat' hypertension during ambulatory monitoring. The study suggests that those with true resistant hypertension show high blood pressure at work and during the night, but their cardiovascular outcomes are better than previously thought.
Scientists led by Syracuse University physicist Sheldon Stone observed the decay of a rare B meson particle, which may hold clues about the universe's matter-antimatter imbalance and the nature of fundamental forces. The discovery is part of ongoing efforts to understand why the universe evolved with more matter than antimatter.
Researchers at the University of Edinburgh have developed a tiny device that improves on existing forms of memory storage by using a mechanical arm to translate data into electrical signals. This allows for much faster operation and reduced energy consumption compared to conventional methods.
Researchers at Mount Sinai School of Medicine found that patients with Alzheimer's disease have lower glucose utilization in the brain, detectable approximately 20 years prior to symptoms. The study suggests that novel therapies could prevent the onset of Alzheimer's by addressing mitochondrial impairment.
A new study published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences reveals that brain growth in babies is linked to maternal investment, including duration of pregnancy and breastfeeding period. The research suggests that longer pregnancies and breastfeeding periods result in bigger brains for babies.
A new study identifies 44 high-risk counties with high food insecurity and prices, requiring an estimated $56 monthly boost per person to meet food needs. The study highlights disproportionate impacts of hunger on Latino and American Indian populations.
A new U-M study finds that nearly half of Latinas who speak little English express a great deal of worry about breast cancer recurrence. The study highlights the need for culturally sensitive counseling to help women understand their risk and manage anxiety.
The Lancet study finds that death rates in young people are now higher than in children across most high- and low-income countries, with injury being a major cause of death in young men. The authors highlight the lack of interventions and resources to tackle contemporary health problems faced by young people.
Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) affects millions worldwide, leading to post-thrombotic syndrome and pulmonary embolism. Interventional radiologists have developed clot-busting treatments that can dissolve large blood clots with minimal risk, offering new hope for patients.
Research reveals significant increases in ESRD incidence among patients with lupus nephritis, particularly in younger populations and African Americans. Despite advances in treatment, outcomes have not improved over a decade, highlighting the need for further research to identify modifiable risk factors and interventions.
A new model suggests that severing social interactions may not be the best approach to prevent disease spread during influenza outbreaks. The researchers found that a moderate increase in the price of interpersonal contact can lower the peak prevalence of the disease while increasing overall societal utility.
Researchers at Stevens Institute of Technology have developed a new laser technology that can transmit data through open space, enabling high-speed free space communications. The technology uses frequency modulation to reduce environmental interference and achieve speeds of up to 100 GHz.
A three-year project led by the University of Strathclyde aims to create portable devices that can analyze air samples from valuable items without touching them. The technology uses 'sniffing' artefacts to understand the composition and condition of objects, with potential applications for museums and collectors.
India has released its first updated tiger population numbers since 2007, estimating 1,706 tigers, an increase of 225 from the previous count. The figure includes an additional reserve in the Sundarbans, resulting in a corrected total of 1,636.
Researchers at Case Western Reserve University detected tiny amounts of Iodine 131 from Japan in Cleveland rainwater, with levels estimated as one-tenth that of natural background radiation. The isotope was found in rainwater collected on a campus roof and is being seen worldwide
A new study found that certain women with early-stage breast cancer experience excessive worrying about cancer recurrence, affecting medical care and quality of life. The research identified factors associated with high levels of worry, including younger age, employment, pain, fatigue, and radiation treatment.
A new study found that childhood psychological problems can have significant negative impacts on an individual's life, including reduced earnings and decreased chances of establishing long-lasting relationships. The study, which followed a group of British residents for 50 years, found that family income was approximately one-fourth lo...
A team of researchers has developed a new model that uses artificial neural networks to predict adverse drug reactions (ADRs) among 10,000 observations with 99.87% accuracy. The technology has the potential to save lives by identifying potential ADRs at an early stage of drug development and marketing.
A new study finds that a human respiratory virus has killed two mountain gorillas in Rwanda, confirming the risk of disease transmission between humans and animals. The virus, human metapneumovirus (HMPV), was detected in both gorillas, highlighting the need for increased conservation efforts to protect these endangered animals.
A new study by the University of Michigan demonstrates that brain regions activated during physical pain are also active in individuals experiencing intense social rejection. The research found a neural overlap between the two experiences, which may help explain why people describe feelings of social rejection as 'painful'.
The Russian boreal forest, the world's largest continuous expanse of forest, is experiencing a rapid shift in vegetation types as temperatures rise. This leads to an increase in evergreen conifers and a decline in larch trees, resulting in a northward progression of evergreens and a retreat of larch forests.