A new study from MIT neuroscientists shows that the most memorable photos are those containing people, followed by static indoor scenes and human-scale objects. The researchers developed a computer algorithm to rank images based on memorability, which could be useful for graphic designers and photo editors.
A recent study by an international team of researchers found that the processes of extinction and speciation are linked in plants, with young species often appearing at high risk of extinction. This challenges the application of the same threat criteria across living organisms and regions.
The study compares three popular ranking methods, finding that the Colley and Massey methods are insensitive to small changes, while the Markov method is highly sensitive, leading to anomalies in rankings. The authors conclude that these methods can be effective for other applications, such as social networks.
A new study found that Southern European groups can attribute up to 3% of their genetic signature to African ancestry, with mixing dating back 1,600 years. Middle Eastern groups have inherited 4-15% African ancestry, and Jewish populations 3-5%.
The West Coast high-frequency radar network, operated by Scripps Institution of Oceanography, provides kilometer-scale current observations out to 150 kilometers offshore and 2,500 kilometers of shoreline. This network allows for the determination of geographic differences in coastal surface circulation and characterization of phenomen...
A survey by Northwestern University found that small companies report more challenges than large companies in the FDA's 510(k) review process. The predictability of regulatory requirements is a crucial factor in deciding whether to invest in developing new products, with only 8% of respondents believing the US system is predictable.
Researchers have found a method to measure a star's true age using its spin. Astronomer Soren Meibom presented his findings in a press conference, nearly doubling the age covered by previous studies of younger clusters. The technique involves measuring stellar rotation rates for stars in clusters with known ages.
A recent study published in Psychological Science found that people from different cultures respond differently to thoughts of death. European-Americans tend to focus on protecting their sense of self, leading to harsher judgments towards those perceived as threats. In contrast, Asian-Americans are more likely to reach out to others an...
A Queen's University study found that Canadian doctors enjoyed a windfall in earnings during the early years of Medicare and that the universal system continued to enhance physician income after adjustment. Despite lower fees for services, Canadian doctors remain the top-earning profession.
Researchers at Vanderbilt University discovered that impairments in the posterior superior temporal sulcus (STS) brain area contribute to difficulties in reading social cues. This abnormal brain activation leads to misconstruing human actions and intentions in individuals with schizophrenia.
A large cohort study found that initially healthy middle-aged women with new-onset atrial fibrillation had an increased risk of cardiovascular, noncardiovascular, and all-cause death. The risk was partly attributed to nonfatal cardiovascular events such as congestive heart failure and stroke.
A recent analysis found that genetic predisposition was cited in 468 Canadian legal cases, particularly in workers' compensation cases, which may diminish the impact of other factors. This raises concerns about the interpretation of complex genetic information by non-experts.
A new bacterium, Pseudomonas putida CBB5, uses newly discovered digestive enzymes to break down caffeine into carbon dioxide and ammonia. The enzyme's ability to remove methyl groups could lead to easier pharmaceutical production, potentially lowering costs.
Researchers studied pandemic influenza H1N1 morbidity and mortality in 32 Mexican states, finding age distribution and risk of severe disease varied by age group. The study supports the effectiveness of early mitigation efforts like mandatory school closures.
Researchers have discovered a high concentration of bacteria in the center of hailstones, indicating that airborne microorganisms may play a role in weather events. The study suggests that biological particles, such as bacteria, can act as ice nuclei, catalyzing ice formation at temperatures near -2 degrees Celsius.
Pelvic organ prolapse is caused by a combination of loss of elasticity and breakdown of proteins in the vaginal wall. Researchers found that fibulin-5 blocks enzymes degrading protein support structures, leading to prolapse.
Recent research review finds no difference in metabolic impact between HFCS and sucrose, contradicting previous media claims. Despite declining HFCS consumption, US obesity and diabetes rates continue to rise.
Researchers discovered a unique sequence of geologic events that triggered Japan's devastating tsunami, including an unusual 'two-faced' rupture on the fault plane and extreme dynamic overshoot. This finding highlights the need to better understand similar earthquakes in other subduction zones around the world.
P&G is pioneering the 'Omics' revolution in beauty and grooming by applying genomics, proteomics, and metabolomics tools to map the entire biological system. This approach enables scientists to identify molecular pathways associated with common concerns in skin and hair biology.
Scientists have discovered a new species of birch mouse ancestor, Sicista primus, which is 9 million years older than previously known and originated from Asia. The tiny fossil teeth found in sediments in Inner Mongolia provide evidence of the genus' persistence over time without significant morphological changes.
The TRMM satellite detected a large area of heavy rainfall in the supercell thunderstorm that spawned the Joplin tornado. Rainfall rates exceeded 2 inches per hour, indicating a strong storm system.
New research reveals that Indian families are selectively aborting girls if their first child is also a girl, leading to a widening imbalance in the child sex ratio. The study estimates that millions of selective abortions have occurred over the past few decades, contributing to the problem.
A new Canadian-made therapy, Urocidin, has shown promising results in treating superficial bladder cancer. Patients who received Urocidin became disease-free after one year, tolerating the treatment well.
Women who took daily prenatal vitamins before and during pregnancy were less likely to have children with autism, especially those with high-risk genetic makeups. Folate and B vitamins in prenatal supplements may protect against early fetal brain development deficits.
A Baylor University study reveals that polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), a common fire retardant, can cause developmental malformations, changes in behavior, and death in zebra fish. The research found that lower brominated congeners were more toxic than higher ones.
A recent study indicates that prolonged sleep deprivation among doctors can result in higher rates of surgical complications. The authors suggest establishing minimum uninterrupted sleep hours as a best practice standard to ensure patient safety.
A study found that elderly patients with heart failure symptoms who have high levels of biomarkers copeptin and NT-proBNP in their blood have an increased risk of all-cause death. The combination of these biomarkers provides greater prognostic information, suggesting potential therapeutic targets for treatment.
Two of Greenland's largest glaciers have lost sufficient ice to equal 300 gigatons in the last decade, equivalent to seven years of normal snow accumulation. Meanwhile, Helheim glacier gained a small amount of mass over the same period, providing a high-definition picture of climate-caused changes on the island.
The MetLife Foundation has awarded a $100,000 grant to support a fellowship program that brings aging-focused reporters to the Gerontological Society of America's Annual Scientific Meeting. The program aims to increase media coverage on aging issues, which are expected to grow significantly in the next 40 years.
A new study found that children with complex chronic conditions requiring long-term mechanical ventilation have higher mortality rates, longer hospital stays, and increased healthcare costs. Infants under one year old consume the majority of healthcare resources in this group.
Researchers developed a forensic mitochondrial DNA species identification technique to distinguish between sardines and horse mackerel. The method has been applied to over 20 sardine and 20 horse mackerel species, facilitating fisheries imports monitoring and tracking.
A Canadian study found Aboriginal children with kidney failure were less likely to receive a kidney transplant compared to white children. The study revealed that Aboriginal children had more immune-mediated kidney diseases and shorter waiting times on dialysis before transplantation, leading to lower rates of successful transplants.
Researchers at Brigham and Women's Hospital found that atrial fibrillation in mostly healthy women is associated with a significantly increased risk of death. The study of over 34,000 women found that 2.1% of deaths could be attributed to atrial fibrillation, highlighting the importance of managing cardiovascular risk factors.
The NASA National Polar-orbiting Operational Environmental Satellite System (NPOESS) Preparatory Project (NPP) climate and weather satellite has completed all environmental testing, including thermal vacuum testing. The successful test paves the way for the satellite's planned launch on October 25.
Researchers from NPL and Linköping University have developed a method to identify graphene thickness using EFM, allowing for precise device applications. This technique is suitable for industrial environments and can be used to distinguish between one- and two-layer graphene.
A new article in PLOS Medicine argues that current policies on migration and health have been conducted within sector silos, hindering coordinated efforts. A framework is proposed to describe migration as a multi-staged process with various intervention opportunities, highlighting points for international coordination.
A recent study found that men who walk briskly after diagnosis have a 57% lower rate of progression of disease than those who walk at an easy pace. Brisk walking can delay or even prevent progression of prostate cancer.
Typhoon Songda has strengthened with a tighter low-level circulation center, indicating strong storms and heavy rainfall. The storm is now generating waves up to 26 feet high and tropical-storm force winds extend out to 105 miles from the center.
A joint report from Berkeley Lab suggests California can achieve 60% emissions reduction with current technology, while the remaining 20% will require advancements in technologies like artificial photosynthesis and fusion energy. The report recommends electrifying as much as possible, increasing efficiency measures, and changing human ...
A Mexican flu pandemic study found that school closures and other social distancing measures were associated with a significant reduction in influenza transmission rates, with up to 37% fewer cases reported. The study highlights the importance of these interventions in mitigating future pandemics.
A study by the USDA found that keeping dairy cows outdoors year-round lowers ammonia emissions by 30% and greenhouse gas emissions by 8%. Well-managed outdoor dairy herds also sequester more carbon in fields converted to perennial grasslands.
Two new studies by UCSF researchers found that nearly one in six visits to doctors' offices for asthma complaints resulted in antibiotic prescriptions. The findings highlight the need for pediatricians to prescribe antibiotics more judiciously to prevent drug resistance. Additionally, researchers are investigating whether targeted anti...
A new treatment for sudden hearing loss has been found comparable to oral steroids, providing patients with more treatment options. The study showed that both treatments led to similar hearing improvements, but patients with severe hearing loss benefited more from oral steroids.
A study of 161 marine mammal tissue samples reveals an association between severe illness and co-infection with two parasites, Sarcocystis neurona and Toxoplasma gondii. The infections caused more severe disease symptoms in animals infected with both parasites.
A recent study published in The Journal of Nuclear Medicine found that PET scans can help determine earlier if treatment for tuberculosis is working or if the disease is multidrug-resistant. This technology has the potential to become a valuable clinical adjunct to genotypic and phenotypic tests, improving patient outcomes.
A study of 1,455 U.S. men with early-stage prostate cancer found that brisk walking lowers the risk of prostate cancer progression by nearly 60%. Regular physical activity can improve prognosis, and walking must be brisk for benefits to occur.
The Expanded VLA is providing new insights into the formation of sun-like stars, with observations revealing previously unseen detail of molecular gas near a very young star. The telescope's improved quality is also helping researchers study large ejections of matter from massive young stars and their role in galaxy evolution.
A new study finds that hips provide most of the power during walking, but ankles dominate during running. This discovery could inform the design of assistive devices and prosthetics for humans.
A study found that injection therapy with intratympanic methylprednisolone was not inferior to oral prednisone in treating idiopathic sudden sensorineural hearing loss. The treatment showed comparable efficacy at 2 and 6 months, with improved hearing recovery rates for both groups.
Researchers found that hydrogen peroxide released by damaged skin cells coordinates regeneration of sensory fibers, promoting wound healing and restoring touch sensation. The study demonstrates the healing power of hydrogen peroxide in zebrafish larvae.
A large clinical trial has shown that direct injection of steroids into the middle ear is equally effective as oral steroids in restoring hearing levels in patients with sudden deafness. The study results, published in the Journal of the American Medical Association, have implications for treatment options and cost-effectiveness.
A recent study by the Crime Victims' Institute examines state laws addressing adolescent sexual activity and suggests decriminalizing consensual relationships between close-in-age teens. The report also proposes using education classes instead of punishment, with options for parents to control their child's behavior through restraining...
Researchers have developed a method to boost algal hydrogen production by 400% using bioengineered proteins, demonstrating the competition between sugar and hydrogen production in algae. This discovery paves the way for large-scale hydrogen fuel manufacturing using water and sunlight.
A study published in Nature shows that a combination therapy of RI-BPI and Gleevec eradicates cancer in cell and animal studies, targeting the Philadelphia chromosome-positive (Ph+) form of acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). This breakthrough offers new hope for improved survival rates for children with this aggressive cancer.
The Vectra DA algorithm provides a robust molecular monitoring system for RA disease activity. Studies show it can predict progressive joint damage and is robust in patients with common comorbid conditions.
A new study suggests that lipofilling is a safe procedure for women with breast cancer, with no significant difference in local recurrence rates between the treatment group and controls. However, longer follow-up and more research are needed to confirm these findings.
A novel way to immobilise radioactive forms of iodine using a microwave has been discovered by Professor Neil Hyatt at the University of Sheffield. The method uses Pb5(VO4)3I, a solid material that can safely contain radionuclides like iodine-129, reducing long-term health risks from environmental release.
A new clinical research study is comparing the effectiveness of two medications, quetiapine and lithium, in treating bipolar disorder. The study, funded by a $10 million grant from AHRQ, aims to improve long-term treatment for patients with bipolar disorder.
A study by Brigham and Women's Hospital researchers found that copied lifestyle counseling documentation in EMRs is not associated with improved glucose control, similar to having received no counseling. The team suggests educating healthcare providers about the issue and exploring alternative solutions.
A study found that areas with higher levels of primary care physicians had modestly lower death rates and fewer preventable hospitalizations among Medicare beneficiaries. Beneficiaries in high-primary-care-physician areas had 6% lower ACSC hospitalization rates compared to low-primary-care-physician areas.
Researchers found that scheduling admissions to reduce peaks and troughs in hospital occupancy can decrease crowding, with a median of only 7.4 patients per week needing to be rescheduled. Smoothing out weekly patterns reduces mid-week crowding and improves patient outcomes.
A study published in PLOS Medicine found that closing schools and implementing social distancing measures significantly reduced H1N1 flu transmission rates in Mexico by 29-37%. The study analyzed data from the Mexican Institute for Social Security and showed a decline in hospitalization rates from 70% to 10% during this period.
Astronomers have discovered a local supernova factory in the Carina Nebula, which may help understand how young stars release newly-forged elements into their surroundings. The Chandra X-ray Observatory detected over 14,000 stars, six possible neutron stars, and a new population of young massive stars.
A new report by St. Michael's Hospital and Street Health reveals that homeless people are more likely to have a family doctor if they possess a health card or have chronic medical conditions. The report highlights the need for programs to secure and maintain health cards and increase access to primary care in this population.
A new University of British Columbia study found that women are least attracted to smiling, happy men, while men are most attracted to happy women. The study explored first impressions of sexual attraction and discovered dramatic gender differences in how emotions, including happiness, pride, and shame, are perceived.
Researchers at Washington State University have devised a new way to analyze blood spatters at crime scenes, allowing investigators to determine the exact height of a source. The system uses known equations of projectile motion and data points form a neat line on a graph when plotted correctly.
Kepler's first four months of data reveal evidence for over 1,200 planetary candidates, with 408 residing in systems containing two or more planets. These multi-planet systems are characterized by flat orbits, tilted less than 1 degree, and lack Jupiter-sized gas giants.
A study found that medical students in the US have substantial exposure to pharmaceutical industry marketing, even in preclinical years. The extent of their contact is associated with positive attitudes towards marketing and skepticism of negative implications. The authors recommend better education for medical students on the subject ...
Researchers at IUPUI are conducting a pilot study to evaluate the effectiveness of treating depression before a heart attack in reducing future heart disease risk. The study aims to investigate whether an evidence-based computerized treatment for depression can effectively lower heart disease risk.
A study found that postmenopausal women who ate more baked/broiled fish had a 30% lower risk of heart failure compared to those who rarely ate it. Darker fish, such as salmon and mackerel, were associated with a greater risk reduction than lighter fish.
A new Indiana University study challenges the common view that violent programming is a key factor in children's entertainment. Researchers found that violence has an indirect negative effect on boys' enjoyment, while girls do not show a decrease in preference for violent content.
The new journal will be fully sponsored by the Korea-based Future Technology Research Association International (FTRA) and cover multifaceted aspects of human-centric computing technology and information sciences. All research results will be freely available online under the Creative Commons Attribution license.
Researchers at Indiana University suggest that postural control problems may be a core feature of bipolar disorder, affecting areas of the brain involved in mood regulation. The study found that participants with bipolar disorder displayed increased postural sway, particularly when eyes were closed.