Scientists at MIT's Alcator C-Mod tokamak reactor have successfully maintained I-mode operation over a wider power range. This breakthrough could enable the application of I-mode to larger ITER projects and future fusion reactors.
A new method has been developed to separate enantiomers, which are pairs of molecules with a mirror-inverted structure. The method uses porous molecular organic frameworks (MOFs) to sort molecules, allowing for rapid and efficient separation of enantiomers in pharmaceutical production.
A large-scale clinical study has provided insights into the causes of temporomandibular joint disorders, known as TMD, and identified demographic, biological, psychological, and genetic factors associated with chronic cases. The study's findings may lead to new methods of diagnosing facial pain conditions and predicting susceptibility.
A team of ecologists challenges the idea of a universal species-area relationship, finding that geometric constraints and biological effects shape the connection between species richness and plot size. They discovered specific geometric limits that restrict how quickly the number of species can increase with area.
Researchers at Duke University discovered that certain mid-ocean creatures can control their reflection by changing skin pigments in response to blue light. This allows them to avoid predators using searchlights, such as squid and octopuses that use this tactic to catch prey.
A European herb has figured out its own way to survive in environments with low pollinator density, using a delayed selfing mechanism to guarantee seed production. The study found that when populations are small and/or pollinators are scarce, plants can augment seed production via autonomous self-pollination.
A new study published in PLoS Pathogens reveals that Staphylococcus aureus can develop resistance to the last-line antibiotic vancomycin by acquiring a single mutation in its DNA. This discovery highlights the high adaptability of Staph and emphasizes the need to improve antibiotic treatment strategies for serious bacterial infections.
Four University of Toronto researchers received funding to develop new technologies in genomics research, including a software platform and automated pronuclear injection system. The projects aim to improve disease diagnosis and treatment options by analyzing DNA mutations and gene function.
Researchers used a novel experiment to investigate the brain's perception of surface lightness, finding that the ratio hypothesis does not explain the observed performance. Instead, participants could distinguish between shades with ratios up to 50 times higher than expected, suggesting other mechanisms are at work.
Researchers at the Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory have created a video simulation showcasing the complex dynamics of a plasma pulse within an experimental fusion machine, offering new insights into particle confinement and magnetic field manipulation. The simulation provides a detailed 3D picture of the plasma, allowing researcher...
A new study estimates that around 90 million children contract seasonal flu each year, causing approximately 1 million hospital admissions and up to 111,500 deaths due to influenza-related pneumonia. The majority of these deaths occur in developing countries.
The DEB-AMI trial found that drug-eluting balloons with bare metal stents did not meet the primary endpoint of reduced late lumen loss compared to drug-eluting stents. The study also showed that these procedures may induce more pronounced morphological changes, resulting in inferior angiographical and clinical outcomes.
Researchers installed a movable 30-ton particle-beam heating system to develop fusion plasmas that can burn indefinitely. The system allows scientists to vary the spatial distribution of the plasma current to maintain optimal conditions for sustaining high-temperature plasmas needed for fusion energy production.
An international team of scientists discovered how a bacterial pathogen kills cells by preventing protein synthesis, paving the way for novel therapies to combat melioidosis. The study, led by the University of Sheffield, used intense X-rays to solve the structure of a protein from Burkholderia pseudomallei.
A recent study using functional magnetic resonance imaging has found that attention, rather than awareness, modulates the activity in the primary visual cortex. This suggests that these two mental processes may be dissociated and affect nerve cells differently. The findings have implications for philosophy and psychology.
Researchers propose that Jupiter may have 'jumped' out of its orbit to avoid disturbing the inner solar system. The 'jumping-Jupiter' theory suggests one planet was ejected from the solar system, leaving four giant planets behind.
Researchers at NC State University have developed a method to convert 2D patterns into 3D shapes by heating pre-stressed plastic sheets under infrared light. Varying the width of black lines creates different hinge folds, enabling the creation of complex structures
A team of scientists at Arizona State University has made new discoveries about the role of insulin pathways and partner proteins in determining a honey bee's caste fate. They found that blocking certain proteins can force larvae to develop into workers, but also allowed them to develop into queens by providing hormone treatments.
Researchers used a new microwave instrument to study the interplay between plasma turbulence and surface flows in tokamak plasas. They found that turbulent eddies are shredded by large surface flows, turning off turbulence. This equilibrium is crucial for achieving high thermal insulation in fusion experiments.
A comprehensive clinical assessment has been developed to identify individuals at risk of developing jaw pain disorders. The UB researchers found that people who develop jaw pain disorders exhibit specific characteristics, including more trauma to the jaw, limitations, and noises in the jaw, headaches, and generally worse medical status.
Researchers have identified a type of immune cell, dendritic cells, that plays a protective role in atherosclerosis. The study found that classical dendritic cells help prevent the disease from progressing.
Researchers from North Eastern Hill University investigate the karyomorphological data of Citrus species, revealing that C. indica has an intermediate asymmetry index value, making it a true progenitor of cultivated Citrus. This study supports the classification of three true species of Citrus: C. grandis, C. reticulata, and C. medica.
Recent experiments in the DIII-D tokamak have shown that spinning plasma can prevent magnetic island formation, which reduces fusion power production. By applying torque to spin the plasma faster while minimizing stray magnetic fields, tokamak fusion performance can be raised.
The PARTNER trial demonstrates continued superiority of TAVR over standard therapy at 2-year follow-up, with reduced rates of all cause mortality, cardiovascular mortality, and repeat hospitalization. Neurologic events were higher in TAVR patients, primarily due to increased hemorrhagic strokes.
A University of British Columbia study reveals a 50% decline in elephant populations in eastern Congo over the last decade, primarily caused by human conflict and poaching. Conservation efforts with international support have shown to be effective in protecting these animals.
Scientists discovered a 3-4 million year old fossil of a whale rib with three tooth marks from a large shark, indicating the whale survived the attack. The whale's death may have been unrelated to its injury and infection.
Astronomers have uncovered an extraordinary population of young dwarf galaxies brimming with star formation, forcing a re-evaluation of their understanding of galaxy evolution. These galaxies are estimated to be 9 billion years old and produce stars at rates 100 times faster than the Milky Way.
A new study predicts wildfire severity in South America by analyzing Atlantic and Pacific ocean temperatures, providing vital insights for conserving tropical forests. The method has been tested with striking accuracy, enabling officials to prepare for fire seasons three to five months in advance.
Researchers found that elderly individuals over 60 experience reduced specificity in olfactory sensory neurons, making it harder to differentiate between smells. This can lead to malnutrition and increased risk of poisoning due to impaired ability to detect spoiled food and toxic vapors.
A new treatment combining corticosteroids and N-acetylcysteine improves survival rates for patients with acute alcoholic hepatitis by 35-40% within a month, compared to the conventional cortisone-based treatment. The study results show that this combination therapy is well-tolerated and offers a promising prognosis for severe alcoholic...
Researchers create super-strong mice and nematodes by reducing natural inhibitor function, leading to denser muscle fibers and increased energy delivery. This breakthrough could lead to treatments for age-related or genetically caused muscle degeneration.
Researchers at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute have discovered that stacking graphene nanoribbons can significantly enhance its ability to transmit electricity, reducing the band gap and increasing efficiency. The study, published in ACS Nano, brings industry closer to realizing graphene nanoelectronics and potentially replacing coppe...
Researchers found two clouds of primordial gas that match theoretical predictions, with a composition of mostly hydrogen and helium. This discovery challenges our understanding of how metals are distributed in the universe and provides new constraints on the modern cosmological explanation for element origins.
A study on Lysmata amboinensis shrimp found that larger groups than pairs experience violent attacks and kills, with smaller groups remaining intact. Monogamous pairs emerge after aggression subsides, with reduced group sizes resulting in increased molting rates.
A University of Tennessee microbiologist is working on a biofilter to remove harmful algal toxins from water. The project aims to reduce the risk of toxins passing into water distribution systems and restore safe water resources.
Researchers aim to measure preschoolers' physical activity in natural environments, such as childcare settings and homes, using durable devices. The goal is to develop interventions that encourage healthy habits and prevent childhood obesity.
Researchers found that willingness to take risks in competition increases until age 50, with men slightly more willing than women. The study of over 800 adults aged 25-75 showed a parallel trajectory for both genders across the lifespan.
A recent Iowa State University study analyzed data from nearly 2,700 NSLP children and found the program reduces food insecurity by 3.8%, poor general health by 29% and obesity by at least 17%. The researchers suggest that school lunches have a generally beneficial effect on children's health outcomes.
Children of minority races are less likely to get kidney transplants before they need dialysis, and blacks with no health insurance face a higher risk of death while waiting for a transplant. Certain racial groups have lower rates of preemptive transplantation and are more likely to die than others
A new analysis of the PARTNER trial found that TAVR via the femoral artery is more cost-effective than SAVR for eligible high-risk patients, while transapical approach yields unattractive results from a health economic perspective. The study suggests that refinement of the transapical approach could improve outcomes and reduce costs.
University of Michigan researchers will provide genetic testing and risk estimates for individuals with mild cognitive impairment. The study aims to evaluate the impact of health education and genetic testing on psychological adjustment and behavior changes.
A new NASA-funded study predicts Amazon fire season severity using ocean temperature data, which amplifies human impacts and varies from year to year. The model successfully predicted the 2010 fire season's severity and spatial distribution.
The GigaBlitz event aims to document global biodiversity by having citizen scientists create panoramic images of their backyards and surrounding areas. The project, organized by Carnegie Mellon University, uses gigapixel imagery to record and share data for sites that may be widely separated.
Researchers at UC San Diego and EPFL found that removing a regulatory protein called NCoR dramatically improved insulin sensitivity in mice. The study reveals a new role for NCoR in regulating fatty acid storage and glucose metabolism, which could lead to the development of targeted treatments for type 2 diabetes.
Sudden unexpected death in epilepsy (SUDEP) affects 2.7 million Americans, with a high risk associated with chronic and severe cases. Increased awareness, improved prevention, and better treatments can help reduce SUDEP rates through devices that detect seizures and understanding its mechanisms.
Researchers have achieved a record pressure of 50 megabars in a diamond experiment at the National Ignition Facility, replicating conditions believed to exist in super-Earths. The use of ramp-compression technique allowed for higher pressures than standard near-instantaneous shock-physics experiments.
Two species of deep-sea cephalopods have the ability to rapidly switch between transparency and a dull red color as optical conditions change, providing an adaptive camouflage strategy. This 'switchable' camouflage is highly advantageous for survival in the unique environment of the deep sea.
A Florida law barring doctors from discussing firearms safety with patients and parents endangers open communication about a critical public health issue. Gunshot wounds are a leading cause of pediatric trauma, and safe storage of firearms is crucial in preventing injuries and deaths.
Researchers at MIT's Alcator C-Mod experiment have found a novel connection between spontaneous plasma rotation and global energy confinement. At low density, the two phenomena are positively correlated, but at higher densities, they become inversely related, with rotation reversal leading to saturated energy confinement.
The conference, 'At the Interface of Natural and Artificial Photosynthesis,' brought together researchers from academia, government, and industry to discuss innovative solar technology based on nature's perfect green machines. The research focuses on replicating photosynthesis' power to create efficient and cost-effective bio-inspired ...
The US Department of Energy Joint Genome Project has selected two projects from the Danforth Plant Science Center to develop genetic resources for bioenergy grasses. The projects will focus on improving biomass production and stress tolerance in crops such as switchgrass, sorghum, and Miscanthus.
Two studies found that reducing NCoR in muscles increases exercise capacity and fat-burning, while reducing it in fat cells improves insulin sensitivity. The findings imply that limiting NCoR activity could be a potential treatment strategy for metabolic disorders.
A study published in The Lancet found that using Lady Health Workers to treat severe pneumonia in Pakistan significantly reduced treatment delays and failures compared to standard care. The intervention resulted in lower treatment failure rates by day 6, with only two deaths reported in the control clusters.
The NCAR wind forecasting system has improved the accuracy of wind energy forecasts by 35%, allowing Xcel Energy to harness wind more effectively and save ratepayers millions of dollars yearly. The system uses cutting-edge computer models and real-time observations to provide high-resolution forecasts, updated every 15 minutes.
Researchers at DIII-D National Fusion Facility have developed a method to control high-energy runaway electrons in tokamaks, which can potentially damage interior surfaces. By applying rapid pre-programmed changes in magnetic control coils, scientists can move the electron beam away from interior surfaces and prevent damage.
The IPAL-EM initiative aims to integrate palliative care into emergency departments, reducing symptoms and anxiety while improving patient safety and satisfaction. By providing access to palliative care, the initiative seeks to improve quality of life for both patients and their families.
Two new studies find a dramatic reduction in severe pneumonia diagnoses among children with smoke-reducing chimneys on their cookstoves. Exposure to woodsmoke during pregnancy also linked to poorer performance in IQ markers for school-aged children.
Researchers at UC San Diego School of Medicine discovered that non-coding RNAs TUG1 and NEAT2 relocate genes to activate their function in response to growth signals. This process provides a new understanding of the interaction between regulated genes and human diseases.
Tel Aviv University researchers have developed a new type of solar panel using nano-antennas that can convert a broader spectrum of light into electric current. This technology has the potential to improve efficiency and reduce costs, making it a viable option for green energy.
Einstein researchers discovered a mechanism governing cell specialization, where a pair of proteins act as super regulators of existing ones. This finding has implications for cancer, stem cell research, and regenerative medicine, as it suggests that specific proteins can be turned on or off to create specialized cells.
A new study from the University of Missouri found that rural adolescents who engage in prosocial behaviors like volunteering and helping others are less likely to use substances as young adults. This research has important implications for substance use prevention and intervention programs aimed at teens.
The December 2011 Geology issue presents several studies. Researchers discovered microfossils in the Tayshir Formation, Mongolia, shedding light on ancient life forms. Additionally, a study investigated melt migration mechanisms, finding evidence for porosity waves in the sub-arc mantle of Kohistan Island Arc.
A study found that transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) provides meaningful clinical benefits compared to surgical valve replacement in patients suitable for the transfemoral approach. In contrast, patients ineligible for this approach experienced no benefit and potentially worse outcomes with TAVR.
A study by Michigan State University found that a diet rich in fiber, but not necessarily low in saturated fat or cholesterol, is associated with a lower risk of heart disease and type-2 diabetes in teenagers. The research emphasizes the importance of including fiber-rich, nutrient-dense plant-based foods in teens' diets.
Researchers discovered that genetic mutations causing hereditary Parkinson's disease cause mitochondria to run amok inside cells. Damaged mitochondria produce toxic compounds and fuse with healthy ones, leading to neuronal death.
Dopamine-deficient C. elegans worms offer a promising new approach to identifying potential treatments for Parkinson's disease, with researchers able to test over 1,000 drugs per year. The 'motor switching' problem faced by people with Parkinson's can be replicated in the worms, allowing scientists to quickly identify effective therapies.
The study found that radial artery access was associated with significantly lower rates of bleeding and cardiac death compared to femoral artery access. This suggests that the transradial approach may be a preferable option for patients with ST elevation acute coronary syndrome.
A new study published in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology found that focusing on someone's body can alter perceptions of agency and experience. Both men and women tend to see individuals as more sensitive but less competent when wearing revealing attire, which may have implications for work and academic settings.
Despite predictions of a giant solar flare, NASA confirms it's physically impossible to destroy Earth. In fact, scientists have studied the sun's activity for millennia with no harm.
The NRL-developed MIGHTI satellite instrument is part of the ICON mission to study the Earth's ionosphere and its impact on communications. The ICON mission aims to understand the extreme variability in the ionosphere, which can interfere with signals.
Two studies agree that diabetics with kidney failure shouldn't lower their blood glucose levels as much as those without kidney failure, suggesting a different optimal range. Hemoglobin A1C levels between 7% and 8% were found to be associated with the lowest risk of death for these patients.
Scientists at PPPL have discovered a new process that releases magnetic energy faster than expected by classical theories. The 3-D process involves the formation of high current ropes called flux ropes, which are ejected out of the reconnection region, leading to a sudden decrease in current density.
A new study published in The Lancet found that children treated at home for severe pneumonia by Pakistan's Lady Health Workers were more likely to recover than those referred to health facilities. Treatment failures occurred 50% less often in the experimental group, resulting in significant reductions in child mortality rates.
A new study found that having a transient ischemic attack (TIA), also known as a mini stroke, can reduce life expectancy by 20 percent. Patients experiencing a TIA have a high risk of early stroke and an increased risk of future problems that may reduce life expectancy.
The Advanced Technology Microwave Sounder (ATMS) instrument on board NASA's NPP satellite acquired its first measurements in November 2011. The data will be used to improve short-term weather forecasts up to 5-7 days in advance, and provide critical information for climate research.
Mathematicians develop new methods to distinguish between knots, leading to the discovery of virtual knots that defy planar representation. These virtual knots give rise to a new branch of knot theory known as generalized knot theory, which emerges as a special case of classical knot theory.
Research reviews firearm injuries and prevention, arguing for including firearm safety in physician-patient conversations to prevent injuries and disease. The practice of asking about guns in the home is found to be meaningful to parents, with 90% of surveyed parents reporting they would share information.
The STACCATO trial found that transapical transcatheter aortic valve implantation (a-TAVI) may be inferior to surgical aortic valve replacement (SAVR) in operable elderly patients, with a higher risk of death, stroke, and renal failure at 30 days. The study was terminated early due to safety concerns.
A global research team, Nutrient Network (NutNet), has grown to involve over 100 researchers worldwide in six years, using a revolutionary cooperative approach and meta-analysis of existing studies. The team's method has been recognized by Science journal, highlighting its potential for other disciplines.
Researchers found a link between large-scale wind patterns and Kawasaki disease outbreaks in Japan, Hawaii, and San Diego. Wind currents carrying potential infectious agents may be triggering the disease, with seasonal shifts in winds exposing regions to air masses from Central Asia.
A new study found that trees at the edge of Alaska's tundra are growing faster due to a hotter climate, suggesting some forests may be adapting. The added growth is helping the trees thrive in this region, which has experienced rapid warming.
A polymer-based film with remarkable properties has been developed, offering a potential replacement for Indium Tin Oxide (ITO) in touch-screen devices and flat panel displays. The film is highly transparent, electrically conductive, economical, and flexible.
Researchers at Empa have successfully designed a molecule with four rotating motor units that can travel straight ahead in a controlled manner. The smallest electric car in the world, measuring approximately 4x2 nanometres, requires refueling with electricity after every half revolution of its wheels.
A new study funded by the NIH shows that wood stoves with chimneys can lower exposure to indoor wood smoke and reduce severe pneumonia cases in children less than 18 months old. The study found a significant reduction of 30% in severe childhood pneumonia, which is attributed to reduced carbon monoxide exposure levels.
A University of Houston physicist is part of a multi-institution team that has received an $18.5 million grant to develop new solar power technologies. The center aims to accelerate the US's commercialization of solar energy through cutting-edge research and partnerships with industry.
New research at MIT's Alcator C-Mod tokamak provides insight into the transport of impurities in fusion plasmas, a crucial step towards improving reactor performance. By tracking impurities using high-resolution spectrometry and computer simulations, scientists aim to develop more accurate models for predicting impurity behavior.
Researchers in Italy have compiled a comprehensive summary of the country's native conehead insect species, Protura. They identified 40 species, including six new records for the Italian fauna, shedding light on their ecological role in organic matter degradation and nutrient recycling.
A recent study published in The Lancet found that young children treated at home for severe pneumonia by lady health workers had better outcomes compared to those referred to hospitals. Home-based treatment reduced treatment delays and failures, saving thousands of children's lives annually.
University of Utah researchers are using the Doppler on Wheels radar truck to study eight to 10 snow and rain storms during its time in Utah. The truck's radar system provides detailed information on the size and shape of snowflakes, lake-effect snow patterns, and other storm characteristics.
Researchers have developed a method to design drugs that can target specific areas of the brain by selectively blocking subtype SK channels. This breakthrough could lead to more effective treatments for dementia and depression by enhancing nerve activity in specific nerves.
A team of scientists found that increasing lithium coating in the wall of an experimental fusion reactor greatly improves plasma confinement. This leads to smaller and cheaper fusion machines. The study also enhances certain plasma properties aiding the reaction.
A new study finds that a fetus can sense its mother's mental state through chemical signals. The baby develops better when the environment is consistent before and after birth. Inconsistent conditions, such as a mother going from depressed to healthy or vice versa, slow down fetal development.
Researchers at Georgia Tech, with support from DARPA and other organizations, are developing a suite of algorithms to identify insider threats in large datasets. The system, called ADAMS, will analyze email, text messages, and file transfers for unusual activity, providing analysts a short list of unexplained events to investigate.
Researchers at Ohio State University developed a high-tech waterproof coating inspired by the unique texture of the Brazilian fern Salvinia molesta. The coating performs similarly to the plant's hairy surface, which traps air and provides stability in water.
Researchers identified increased sensitivity to pain stimuli, altered heart rate responses, and genetic variations in patients with chronic TMJD. The study also found that socio-economic status does not correlate with TMJD incidence, contrasting with other chronic pain conditions.
Researchers at McGill University Health Centre have identified parathyroid hormone-related protein (PTHrP) as a key player in breast cancer progression and metastasis. The study found that blocking PTHrP production can reduce tumor growth by 80-90% and prevent its spread to other organs.