Researchers at the University of Southampton have developed an online auction protocol to optimize electric vehicle charging, increasing overnight capacity by up to 40%. The system ensures that drivers specify their requirements and pay accordingly, preventing 'gaming' the system.
A study published in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine found that obese male patients seeing male physicians had higher odds of receiving weight-related counseling. This suggests that societal norms linking physical fitness to masculinity may influence physicians' attitudes towards obesity care. The findings highlight the imp...
Researchers found that implementing a tobacco-free policy at an Ohio women's substance abuse treatment center led to a 28 percentage point decrease in program completion rates. The study suggests that smoking bans may pose challenges for treatment centers, but they are not a reason to abandon tobacco-free policies entirely.
Researchers at NRL demonstrate electrical injection, detection and precession of spin accumulation in silicon at temperatures up to 225°C, overcoming a major obstacle for spin-based devices. The findings provide key enabling steps for developing semiconductor spintronics that offer higher performance and lower power consumption.
Research published in BioMed Central's EvoDevo journal reveals that sloths and manatees have evolved unusual neck structures without apparent problems. The study suggests that slow lifestyles and low metabolic rates allowed these animals to alter their neck length without side effects, unlike other mammals.
Researchers analyzed 198 cases of differentiated thyroid cancer patients in Japan and found that delaying treatment beyond 180 days increased mortality risk. The Society of Nuclear Medicine supports maintaining current regulations, citing existing scientific evidence as safe for patients and the public.
Despite 89% saying they'd call 9-1-1 at the first sign of a stroke, only 12% actually did, highlighting a significant gap between intention and action. Prompt hospital arrival is critical for preventing permanent damage, with intravenous clot-busting drugs administered within three hours being the most effective treatment.
Scientists have identified a single amino acid change in the chikungunya virus' exterior protein that enables it to infect Aedes albopictus mosquitoes, allowing for rapid spread across India and Southeast Asia. The discovery sheds light on why outbreaks occurred despite previous strains being present in the region.
A recent study analyzing data from 6,400 low-income immigrant children in Montreal reveals that their BMI drops significantly as they grow up in Canada. The 'healthy immigrant effect' seen in adult immigrants is lost in successive generations of children.
Scientists deciphered a community of soil microbes that enables a patch of soil to suppress a plant-killing pathogen. The researchers found 17 unique types of bacteria working together to reduce the incidence of fungal infection.
The sequencing of the Selaginella genome provides a unique insight into plant evolution, revealing new genetic mechanisms and potential sources for pharmaceuticals. By comparing this genome with others, researchers have identified genes that played important roles in the early evolution of vascular and flowering plants.
A study found that sonography with power Doppler can identify subclinical disease and joint activity in children with JIA, which complements the physical exam. The study also showed that certain combinations of physical exam findings are highly sensitive and ultrasound does not add value to clinical management.
Jack Levis, INFORMS Vice President and Director of Process Management at UPS, led his team to win the 2011 Gartner Business Intelligence Excellence Award. The award recognizes UPS's successful implementation of business intelligence and advanced analytics to improve operational efficiency and customer service.
A new study found that cattle infected with foot-and-mouth disease are only contagious for 1.7 days, sparking hope for reduced culling and improved testing methods. Researchers recommend developing pre-clinical diagnostic tools to detect infected animals before symptoms appear, allowing for more targeted interventions.
Two widely used multi-gene tests produce broadly similar results for high- and low-risk breast cancer patients, but differ for those at intermediate risk. The study's findings suggest that these tests can provide additional independent prognostic information to help clinicians make informed treatment decisions.
Researchers have developed a mouse model that mimics the social deficits of autism and schizophrenia, showing improved social behavior with oxytocin treatment. The study provides insights into biological factors related to social deficits and may be useful in evaluating new treatments for these disorders.
A new study funded by the National Institute of Justice will investigate the issue of untested rape kits in Houston and develop strategies to solve the problem. The project includes collaboration between researchers from Sam Houston State University, the University of Texas at Austin, and law enforcement agencies.
Scientists have developed a new test that can diagnose Aspergillus infection and spot signs of antifungal resistance to azoles. Using this test, the team found 55% of aspergillosis patients had telltale signs of resistance to azoles.
A study by Behnam Taebi explores the moral desirability of nuclear power production methods, considering technological realities and ethical issues. The author argues that distinguishing between different nuclear energy production methods is crucial before making informed choices.
A broad shift in federal policies is needed to develop farm practices that are economically, socially, and environmentally sustainable. Current policies focus on a few crops and farmers, while neglecting issues like global warming, biodiversity loss, and public health problems.
A team of researchers studied the evolution of parareptiles, finding that they were not hit as hard by the end-Permian extinction as previously thought. The study used evolutionary relationships to infer missing diversity and revealed new patterns in the fossil record.
Researchers at North Carolina State University have found a specific gene in corn associated with resistance to three important plant leaf diseases. The glutathione S-transferase gene is linked to modest levels of resistance to Southern leaf blight, gray leaf spot, and Northern leaf blight.
A study from Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory suggests that adult stem cells in the brain are 'disposable' and lose their ability to produce neurons with age, leading to a decline in new neuron production. This decline may contribute to age-related cognitive decline.
A study by Dr. Alexey Terskikh and colleagues found that the SOX2 gene maintains the potential for neural crest stem cells to become neurons in the peripheral nervous system. This discovery could help inform therapies for neurocristopathies, diseases caused by defects in the neural crest or neurons.
A new biosensor uses antibody-based technology to detect marine pollutants like oil cheaper and faster than current methods. It has the potential to track and guide the clean-up of oil spills in real-time, providing valuable information for engineers monitoring dredging operations.
Researchers found that celecoxib induced an anti-tumor response at the molecular level, affecting genes involved in cell proliferation, apoptosis, and extracellular matrix biology. The study suggests that celecoxib may be efficient as a cancer treatment for people with primary invasive breast cancer.
A group of 31 Singapore entrepreneurs, members of the Entrepreneurs' Organisation (EO), have donated $100,000 to create a bursary fund for needy students at Nanyang Business School (NBS) at Nanyang Technological University (NTU). The endowment will provide up to two $5,000 bursaries per year, starting from the next Academic Year.
Researchers at the University of Vienna and Austrian Academy of Sciences have successfully simulated a frustrated quantum system using entangled photons. The experiment offers enormous potential for future quantum simulators to study complex quantum phenomena.
A recent study published in The Lancet found that treating acute appendicitis with antibiotics is not as effective as surgically removing the appendix. In the study, patients who received antibiotics were more likely to develop post-intervention peritonitis, a serious inflammation of the abdominal cavity.
Researchers warn that seed mixtures could increase the risk of pest resistance and reduce choices for growers, highlighting concerns over integrated pest management. The use of biotechnology in seed mixtures may lead to increased pressure on the soil insecticide market as resistance develops.
The spikemoss genome reveals that the transition from mosses to plants with vascular systems didn't involve as many genes as going from a vascular plant without flowers to one with them. The genome also sheds light on lignin, a polymer challenging biofuels researchers, and offers strategic research opportunities.
A study published in Reproductive Toxicology found that maternal exposure to bisphenol A (BPA) during pregnancy is associated with decreased birth weight of offspring. Researchers also discovered that the magnitude of decrease in birth weight was greater in children whose mothers were directly exposed to high BPA levels in the workplace.
A new study introduces an improved algorithm to detect and remove motion artifacts from full-body MRIs. The Motion Artifact Removal by Retrospective Resolution Reduction (MARs) algorithm enables better retrospective reviews of images and reduces the need for additional imaging, leading to improved overall image quality.
Researchers at Stanford University School of Medicine have developed a new technology called mass cytometry, which allows for simultaneous measurement of dozens of features on and in cells. This enables scientists to categorize more immune cell types than ever before and gain insights into cellular processes.
Researchers found that arsenic exposure elevates cardiovascular disease mortality in individuals who smoke. Arsenic levels above the safe limit significantly increase risk of death from cardiovascular disease, even at lower doses than previously reported.
A new University of Florida study reveals that cats are the dominant predators to urban mockingbird eggs and nestlings, challenging assumptions about urban areas as nesting sites. The study urges pet owners to keep felines indoors at night to reduce nest predation.
A new study led by Stanford University researchers found that US farmers have largely avoided the impacts of global warming on wheat and corn production. However, with projected temperature increases, it is likely that North American crop yields will eventually be affected.
Researchers have sequenced the genomes of two fungal pathogens that threaten global food supplies, including wheat stem rust and poplar leaf rust. The study provides insights into the molecular underpinnings of these pathogens' pathogenicity and survival, shedding light on their complex relationships with host plants.
A Texas A&M University study challenges the common perception of LDL cholesterol as 'bad' cholesterol. Research suggests that a certain amount of LDL is necessary for muscle growth and serves as a warning sign for potential health problems. The study's findings may have implications for conditions like sarcopenia, which affects million...
A study by Arizona State University researchers found that shared ideas about acceptable weight or body size play a minor role in spreading obesity among friends. The team discovered that interventions targeting behaviors, such as changing eating habits, are more effective than those focused on body mass indexes or body sizes.
Pakistani public health experts express shock and dismay at the government's plan to abolish the Ministry of Health. The move is seen as a threat to national health functions and capacity, particularly in light of ongoing challenges such as polio eradication and inadequate healthcare infrastructure.
Researchers at The Wistar Institute have found that the protein Foxp1 actively maintains T cells in a 'quiescent state,' allowing them to work without antigenic triggers. Removing Foxp1 enables T cells to proliferate and become activated, which could lead to new treatments for diseases like cancer.
Researchers at Rice University have developed a new technology that could dramatically improve solar energy panels by merging nanoscale antennas with semiconductors. This technique allows the capture of infrared light's energy, which is currently unable to be converted into electricity in silicon-based solar cells.
Researchers have identified two major sub-types of breast cancer based on DNA methylation profiles, which could help refine cancer classification and predict treatment response. The study also revealed new information about sub-types of breast cancer and the potential for epigenetic therapy.
Scientists have discovered the CLN6 gene on chromosome 15 as the cause of inherited recessive Kufs type A disease. This breakthrough enables a rapid and simple blood test for diagnosis, screening in at-risk families, and genetic counseling.
Researchers at Albert Einstein College of Medicine have identified Aurora A as a critical target for therapies against rhabdoid tumors, a rare and aggressive childhood cancer. The study found that the loss of a tumor suppressor gene leads to increased expression of Aurora A, which is essential for tumor growth.
Researchers have identified sFRP1 as a molecular marker that correlates with chemotherapy sensitivity in triple-negative breast cancers. The study found that sFRP1 expression levels in individual tumors predict response to chemotherapy, and knocking down the gene in cell culture decreased sensitivity to certain chemotherapies.
A new antibody-based biosensor can detect marine pollutants like oil much faster and more cheaply than current technologies. The device can process samples in less than 10 minutes and detect pollutants at levels as low as just a few parts per billion.
Researchers at Vanderbilt University are investigating whether bacterial hitchhikers play a role in promoting or inhibiting the formation of new species. They are analyzing the microbiomes of closely related wasp species and hybrids to identify specific microbes that increase mortality rates in hybrid offspring.
A nationwide team of agriculturists recommends a 'whole-system redesign' of US agriculture to achieve long-term sustainability. The approach would balance production goals with environmental, social, and economic concerns by incorporating innovative agricultural systems such as organic farming and mixed crop and livestock systems.
Researchers used Foerster resonance energy transfer (FRET) imaging to measure protein interactions on breast cancer cells, revealing a 'signature' representing functional molecular biology. This signature may help predict patient outcome in terms of likelihood of recurrence and response to treatment like lapatinib.
A new survey finds that discussions surrounding feeding tube insertion are often inadequate, with 13.7% of family members stating medical providers inserted the tube without discussion first. Despite research questioning the value of feeding tubes, 32.9% of people in the survey reported improved quality of life for their loved ones.
Research models suggest that agricultural intensity is the main factor contributing to phosphorus loading in the Mississippi River, while manure and over-fertilization play a lesser role. Phosphorus from human waste also poses a significant threat.
Researchers at Brown University have found that the Notch signaling pathway regulates sleep in nematode worms, and similar genes are expressed in human brains. The study suggests that targeting this pathway could lead to more precise and safer sleep aids.
Researchers found that DNA from Helicobacter pylori significantly ameliorates colitis severity in mice, reducing inflammation and bleeding. The study suggests that carrying H. pylori may be beneficial for those with colitis.
A $1.4 million grant from the National Institutes of Health will support Penn State's efforts to develop and evaluate an oral hygiene approach for patients with dementia. The project, led by Rita A. Jablonski, aims to reduce care-resistant behaviors and improve oral health through the application of neurobiological principles.
Researchers at UNC Chapel Hill School of Medicine isolated normal stem cells with aggressive breast cancer properties and identified a genetic intersection that contributes to metastasis. The study suggests a new target for treating triple negative breast cancer.
Researchers suggest that people's intimates and those who spend time with them know their personalities better than they do themselves. Meanwhile, strangers can also pick up on various cues like clothes, musical preferences, or Facebook postings about an individual.
A UT Southwestern researcher has identified the most comprehensive measurement to date of estrogen's effect on breast cancer cells, showing that estrogen regulates a strikingly large percentage of all RNA molecules in a rapid and transient manner. This finding could lead to new therapeutic applications and provide a model for understan...
Researchers at Rutgers University have identified P75 as a likely culprit in post-seizure brain cell death, which can benefit people with epilepsy and those suffering from traumatic brain injuries and strokes. The study aims to prevent cell death by testing molecules that block the P75 receptor.
Cedars-Sinai Medical Center has received a $500,000 grant from the California Community Foundation to fund primary healthcare and case management services for vulnerable children. The grant will support COACH for Kids and Their Families program, providing no-cost health services to over 10,500 individuals in underserved communities.
A new study from the University of Cambridge has found that female-to-male transsexual people have a higher number of autistic traits. The research used the Autism Spectrum Quotient (AQ) test and compared AQ scores across five groups, finding that transmen had higher average scores than typical females, males, and transwomen.
French researchers have reported the strongest proof yet that circulating tumor cells found in patient blood are linked to poor outcomes. The study suggests using a threshold of 1 CTC for defining high-risk patients, supporting its use in non-metastatic breast cancer patients.
A team of researchers used a virtual computer model, called DISCERN, to simulate excessive dopamine release in the brain, revealing distinctly schizophrenic-like memory recall. The study supports the hyperlearning hypothesis and provides insights into how neural networks can help understand human schizophrenia.
Scientists have discovered new records of shelled amoebas living with methane seeps and ancient trilobites. Additionally, researchers have found evidence of micrometeorites in 240 million-year-old sediments and a deep biosphere community in the Atlantic Ocean.
Scientists administered SIV vaccine to monkeys and found neutralizing antibodies and genetic factors correlated with protection. The vaccine reduced infection rate by 50% in some monkeys, providing evidence for immune response needed to prevent HIV infection.
A new study identifies a mutation underlying accelerated-aging disease, providing key insights into normal human aging. The research highlights the importance of the nuclear envelope in the aging process.
Researchers at the University of Oregon are working on a project to design fractal devices that can be implanted in the eyes to restore vision. These devices will mimic the natural pattern found in the retina and could potentially overcome current limitations in chip technology, which are not compatible with neurons.
The US medical workforce is facing a kidney brain drain as fewer students adopt nephrology as a career. Despite the growing health problem of kidney disease, many students believe nephrologists are overworked and underpaid. However, experts propose strategies to improve interest in nephrology, including providing stimulating experience...
A new study suggests that limiting prolonged bottle use in children may help prevent obesity. Children who continued to use bottles beyond 24 months were 30% more likely to be obese by age 5.5, even after accounting for other factors.
A new study from Rice University found that 72 scientists, many of whom identify as atheist, possess a spirituality consistent with science. These 'spiritual atheist' scientists believe in a core sense of truth generated by their work as scientists, and see both science and spirituality as meaning-making without faith.
Researchers found that combining ultrasound with pre-operative MRI is a cost-effective strategy for evaluating rotator cuff tears. The study showed that this hybrid approach can be more cost-effective than using MRI alone, especially in populations with lower pre-test probabilities of rotator cuff tear.
A study of 150 children on temporary breathing devices found that shorter antibiotic courses were just as effective in treating respiratory infections without increasing the risk of drug-resistant infections. Careful evaluation of the need for antibiotics and shortest treatment duration are recommended to curb antibiotic resistance.
Researchers developed a technology that measures the action of candidate drugs on human cells, enabling more effective therapies. This breakthrough could lead to earlier disease detection and tailor treatment options for cancer and HIV patients.
A new malaria detection device has been developed using a standard camera cellphone and red laser pointer to noninvasively obtain finger blood perfusion images. The probe uses optical polarization/speckle principles to detect malaria pigment in blood, maximizing medical safety and patient comfort.
A study found that 16% of dialysis patients have limited health literacy, with those having lower educational levels and certain racial/ethnic groups more affected. This limitation can impact patient adherence to treatment and overall kidney health outcomes.
A new study found that most blacks who don't call emergency services for stroke symptoms believe their symptoms are not serious enough or will resolve on their own. The survey suggests that education campaigns need to emphasize the importance of timely treatment and calling 911 immediately.
Researchers at the University of Manchester have identified a key component of human and animal gut mucus that is toxic to parasitic worms, which cause up to 1 billion deaths and illnesses globally. The discovery may lead to new treatments for chronic worm infections and help identify who is susceptible to parasitic worms.
Scripps Research Institute investigators Joel Gottesfeld and Kristin Baldwin receive grants to explore stem cells' potential in biology and medicine. The funding supports studies on induced pluripotent stem cells, including methods to identify cancer-causing mutations and their impact on genetic diseases.
Finch, a portable and rugged robot designed for introductory computer science classes, includes sensors and mechanisms to engage students' senses. It can be programmed to display 'Hello World', make sounds, or respond to temperature changes, making programming lessons more interactive and motivating.
A study from Massachusetts General Hospital finds that siblings of individuals with both ADHD and emotional reactivity have a significantly greater risk of having both conditions. This suggests that heritable factors influence how we control our emotions, and that ADHD can impact emotional expression beyond classic symptoms.
The USDA has safeguarded a diverse collection of blueberries, including wild relatives and lesser-known species, to ensure their preservation for future generations. The genebank will provide plant breeders with access to these plants as parents for new and improved blueberry varieties.
The American Gastroenterological Association (AGA) Research Foundation has partnered with Horizon Pharma to provide research awards to fellows and students in gastroenterology/hepatology. This year, three fellow abstract prize recipients have been awarded $1,000 each for their outstanding work. Additionally, eleven student abstract pri...
A new study led by Concordia University suggests that children of parents with bipolar disorder are more sensitive to stress due to elevated cortisol levels. Cortisol is a hormone produced in response to anxiety and was previously found to be higher in these children, but this study is the first to show its role in mood disorders.
Researchers found that untrained operators can accurately judge a robot's size relative to an opening but overestimate their driving skill. With practice, participants improve their driveability judgments, reducing the likelihood of robots getting stuck.
A study found that people threatened with poor performance are more likely to use credit cards to purchase luxury items, such as high-end jeans. Researchers discovered that the threat of negative self-evaluation drives consumers to seek status and value reassurance through material purchases.
A Swedish research team found that surgery significantly reduces prostate cancer mortality risk, even among men with low-risk tumours. The study followed 347 patients and found that surgical patients had a lower risk of dying from prostate cancer than those who underwent watchful waiting.
Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center have discovered that the telomerase enzyme repairs chromosomes in two distinct ways, depending on cell division and stress. This finding could lead to new cancer-fighting therapies by inhibiting this enzyme.
James Birchler, a renowned cytogeneticist, has been elected to the National Academy of Sciences for his pioneering work on chromosome structure and function. His innovative techniques have paved the way for introducing disease-resistant and agronomic traits into plants, with significant implications for agriculture and medicine.
Researchers found that increased NOTCH activity helps sleep-deprived fruit flies learn and behave normally. Boosting NOTCH may provide a natural way to combat cognitive deficits caused by prolonged wakefulness.
Three winning designs, Gobug, weSYNC, and Visual Watch, demonstrate creative technology solutions to improve daily life for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). These innovative products facilitate social learning experiences, manage schedules, and provide communication tools.