Experts from NYU Langone Medical Center presented new research findings on osteoarthritis, lupus, and rheumatoid arthritis at the American College of Rheumatology 2011 Annual Scientific Meeting. A study found that increased prescription of narcotic analgesics for OA in the elderly is associated with increased falls and fractures.
A new study investigates how age-related stereotypes influence memory performance in older adults. Researchers found that older adults are more likely to falsely recall unrepresented words due to implicit beliefs about their age. However, by reducing the influence of negative stereotypes, memory performance can be improved.
A new chemical process developed by Harvard researchers simplifies the creation of PET tracers, allowing for real-time 3-D images of biological processes. This breakthrough has the potential to revolutionize drug development and disease diagnosis.
Green algae exposed to carbon nanotubes exhibit reduced growth rates and photosynthetic activity, primarily caused by increased shadowing and agglomeration. However, the absence of absorption by the plants indicates that CNTs do not pose a direct toxic threat.
A new study suggests EU biofuels could be just as bad for the environment as traditional petrol, due to higher-than-thought CO2 emissions from oil palm plantations. The research reveals that expanding palm oil production can increase emissions by up to 60%.
Researchers discovered that crocin in saffron exerts protective effects on brain cells and prevented damage in models of MS. The study also found a link between an ancient virus and cell stress leading to inflammation in the disease.
Researchers at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital identified a chemical known as an acetyl group that serves as a key to mediate protein interactions, which are essential for cell function. The discovery has implications for drug discovery and understanding basic mechanisms governing protein interactions.
A phase III trial found that concurrent chemo-radiotherapy significantly improved the 5-year overall survival of patients with stage II nasopharyngeal carcinoma. The treatment regimen resulted in higher progression-free and distant metastasis-free survival rates compared to radiation alone.
Researchers have for the first time obtained an image of the structure and arrangement of apoA-I molecules using x-ray crystallography. This breakthrough may lead to the development of new drugs to treat diseases such as atherosclerosis and cardiovascular disease.
The Open Networking Summit brought together over 400 attendees from across the country to discuss Software-Defined Networking (SDN) and its potential to transform the industry. Key findings included the potential for SDN to reduce capital and operating expenses, increase revenues, and enable more innovation in networking.
A Northwestern University study found that winter's shorter days and colder temperatures deter older Chicagoans with arthritis from engaging in daily physical activity. The lack of indoor recreational facilities for lower-income individuals exacerbates this issue, leading to serious health consequences.
The world's first standard for geologic storage of carbon dioxide is now available for public review, providing essential guidelines for regulators and industry. The draft standard will be considered based on feedback received during the public review period, which ends on December 27.
Researchers from the University of Leicester are working with Kenyan partners to develop demonstration projects for an ecologically sustainable source of flowers grown at Lake Naivasha. The project aims to reduce water use, improve ecosystem health, and increase access to clean water for local communities.
The measles virus spreads quickly due to its use of the trachea receptor nectine-4, allowing it to contaminate individuals through airborne transmission. This discovery also reveals a potential link between the measles virus and certain cancers, offering new prospects for cancer treatment.
Physicists at Georgia Tech developed a unified theory describing coexistence of liquid and pinned solid phases of electrons in 2D under magnetic field. The theory predicts transition between phases as field is varied, showing emergence of hexagonal Wigner crystal with enhanced stability due to quantum correlations.
Researchers discovered measles virus exits host via nectin-4, a biomarker for certain types of cancer. This finding opens up promising new approaches for targeted cancer therapy.
According to a new article, psychologists recommend making treatment memories stronger through methods like giving more therapy or conducting it in different locations. This approach exploits established principles of learning and has been shown to be effective in reducing relapse rates.
Researchers argue that inland fisheries can be protected by extending sustainable seafood initiatives to freshwater species. Modified approaches would be needed due to smaller and more concentrated fisheries in developing countries.
The European Metrology for Earth Observation and Climate (MetEOC) project aims to enhance the accuracy of climate data by developing a coordinated international capacity. The project will focus on optical domain calibration, ocean color measurements, and ground-based prototype development.
A Heidelberg University Hospital study found that a single protein mediates pathological remodeling processes causing varicose veins. The protein triggers changes in wall architecture, leading to increased cell proliferation and enzyme production.
A study published by the American Thoracic Society found a significant link between body weight, sleep-disordered breathing, and cognitive processing in elementary school children. The research suggests that addressing obesity through public health campaigns may have additional benefits for cognitive development and overall health.
Ecosystem services have declined by 60% due to land conversion for food and fiber production. Experts recommend market-based solutions, such as cap-and-trade policies and certification schemes, to incentivize sustainable supply of these services.
A new mathematical model simulates the effect of climate change on plant-pollinator relationships. In some cases, evolution can rescue mutually dependent species from extinction, but density and distribution of other species play a crucial role in their survival.
A study by Loyola University Health System found that adding a nurse practitioner to a hospital staff can decrease unnecessary emergency department visits. The NP improved continuity of care and troubleshooting for patients, resulting in an improved use of resources and financial benefits.
Researchers have successfully fabricated ultrananocrystalline diamond nanowires with exceptional electrical properties, including sensitivity to gas molecule adsorption at grain boundaries. The discovery offers new possibilities for advanced nanoscale sensors.
Researchers from the University of Arizona have discovered a long-lost megadrought in the southwestern US during the second century AD, lasting nearly 50 years. The study, using tree-ring analysis, reveals a previously unknown drought period that had significant implications for regional climate and water resources.
Researchers found that blocking arginase-2 activity prevents kidney failure in diabetic mice, offering a new therapeutic approach for diabetic nephropathy. The study also suggests that this inhibition may protect against albuminuria and cardiovascular problems.
Research reveals that people's diets are influenced by conflicting norms and environmental cues, rather than just knowledge of healthy eating. According to study findings, having strong beliefs about good eating habits is not enough to change behavior; individuals must also possess the willpower to follow their rules.
A University of Iowa researcher is using a canine model to study the genetic basis of glaucoma. The goal is to identify potential genetic markers that could be used to diagnose and treat humans with the disease.
A large prospective cohort study found no relationship between baseline vitamin D levels and the frequency or timing of acute exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) in patients with severe COPD. Vitamin D supplementation is unlikely to have an effect on AECOPD risk in these patients.
Researchers discovered that brief periods of exercise in early life increased survival rates in mice with spinocerebellar ataxia 1 (SCA1), a devastating inherited disorder. Exercise reduced levels of capicua, a protein partner of ataxin1, which improved symptoms and extended lifespan.
A UofL researcher is developing an oral health plan for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). The pilot study aims to improve oral hygiene and prevent respiratory infections. Caregivers will receive education and support to help their patients with IDD maintain good oral health.
The Materials Project accelerates material discovery, enabling faster development of new materials used in clean energy technologies and common consumer products. Researchers can access a database of over 15,000 inorganic compounds to predict and discover new materials.
Duke University researchers developed YouProve, an Android add-on that monitors images and audio captured on mobile devices for authenticity and fidelity. It uses advanced algorithms to track changes and produce non-forgeable certificates, ensuring the integrity of crowd-sourced content.
Scientists have discovered that human activities are perturbing the nitrogen cycle in tropical forests, leading to an increase in nitrogen levels. This finding has significant implications for tree communities and global change models.
A team of scientists has discovered that the histone protein CenH3 is both necessary and sufficient to trigger the formation of centromeres and pass them on from generation to generation. This discovery may help develop artificial human chromosomes for gene therapies in medicine.
A new study by University of Nevada, Reno professor Deborah Verstegen analyzes public education finance systems across the United States, highlighting funding policies for populations with special educational needs. The research provides valuable insights into accountability and equity issues in US education finance systems.
Researchers at Tel Aviv University have developed a new technology that combines conventional fuel with lower-temperature steam produced by solar power, allowing power plants to operate with 25-50% green energy. This hybrid cycle is highly efficient and uses cost-effective materials, making it a more realistic option for the short-term.
Researchers at NC State University found evolutionary breakpoints in canine chromosomes associated with canine cancer. Mapping these 'fragile' regions could provide new tools for human cancer detection and treatment.
A new gene, LRP1, has been identified as the cause of fatal abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAAs). Researchers found that this gene is specific to AAA and not linked to other cardiovascular diseases. The discovery paves the way for new methods to treat AAAs.
Researchers at Gladstone Institutes have identified a protein called p75NTR that kick-starts the response to low levels of oxygen in cells. This discovery may lead to new therapies for conditions such as heart disease, stroke and certain types of cancer by modifying blood vessel production.
UC research reveals that duck nest boxes, meant to aid cavity-nesting ducks, can trap and kill turtles. Improperly maintained boxes can have devastating effects on wetland turtle populations.
The Materials Project, a Google-like search engine for materials research, uses supercomputers to characterize material properties and organize them into a database. This accelerates the discovery process, enabling researchers to develop novel materials for industries such as energy, transportation, and food packaging.
Researchers successfully established cell cultures from frozen biopsy specimens of the critically endangered Mississippi gopher frog, marking a breakthrough in banking viable amphibian cells. The technique expands conservation efforts to combat diseases and advance reproductive studies.
The cerebellum contributes to creating a cognitive map of the environment through altering chemical communication between its neurons. Inactivation of this ability impairs navigation, as seen in transgenic mice lacking long-term depression in cerebellar neurons.
Researchers at Case Western Reserve University have developed a brain probe that softens after insertion, inducing less scarring and enabling the brain to heal faster. The nanocomposite probe, inspired by the skin of the sea cucumber, changes its mechanical properties in response to water, reducing damage to surrounding brain tissue.
A team of scientists found that plutonium clusters adhere more strongly to mineral surfaces than individual ions, which could help contain its spread into the environment. This strong adherence could minimize the leakage of nuclear waste from steel barrels.
A massive shift in tree species is underway across the Western United States due to climate change, with many native species declining or disappearing and opportunistic newcomers replacing them. The research identifies areas where forests will change composition, with some regions shifting into grasslands or deserts.
A NYU dental research team is using a $2.2 million NIH grant to analyze bacterial samples and identify strains of Lactobacilli contributing to severe early childhood caries. The study aims to develop a diagnostic test to identify children at risk.
A Wayne State University researcher is conducting studies to understand the differences in marijuana use among three subgroups of HIV-positive patients. The goal is to address knowledge gaps and inform decision-making at a state level, potentially guiding treatment and policy.
A study by McGill University Health Centre researchers found that adolescent amphetamine use can cause neurobiological imbalances and increase risk-taking behavior, effects that persist into adulthood. The study used animal models and found abnormalities in key neurotransmitters serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine.
Skin detects UVA radiation using a light-sensitive receptor found in eyes, leading to melanin production within hours. Researchers find that long-wavelength UVA light stimulates rhodopsin in melanocytes, triggering calcium signals and melanin accumulation.
The November GSA Today science article explores why the Southern Gulf of California ruptured so rapidly, attributing it to an oblique divergence across a thin and hot, weak lithosphere. This process allowed for rapid deformation and stretching of the crust, resulting in new sea floor formation in just 6-10 million years.
A research team has sequenced the genome of Pseudomonas syringae pv. tomato to understand how it evades plant defenses and develop methods to prevent further spread. The study found that the pathogen likely evolved on a recent time scale and continues to adapt by minimizing its recognition, posing a threat to biosecurity.
Researchers have combined gene therapy and stem cell transplantation to successfully reverse hemophilia A in large animals, eliminating symptoms and restoring normal activity. However, the treatment's effects may be reduced or shorter due to an immune response developed by the treated animals.
A study published in BMC Emergency Medicine found that higher body mass index (BMI) and fitness levels improve CPR performance, while lower BMI and fitness lead to decreased compression depth and fatigue. The researchers recommend changing CPR providers every two minutes to prevent tiredness from impeding proper compression.
The size of dead zones in the Chesapeake Bay has decreased steadily since the late 1980s, linked to reduced nutrient pollution efforts, while early summer spikes are influenced by climate forces, not pollutants
A Brigham Young University study found that voters who go against the neighborhood norm have less confidence in ballot privacy, with 30% less confidence. Election officials' shift to new voting technology has increased concerns among some voters about privacy.
The National Cancer Institute has awarded Albert Einstein College of Medicine two grants totaling $8 million to study the microenvironments that drive the spread of cancer. The research aims to understand the complex process of metastasis, which is responsible for most cancer-related deaths.
Researchers analyzed genealogies of over one million individuals in Quebec to show that pioneers on the edge of colonization waves had a selective advantage. This advantage led to increased fertility and reproductive success, as well as a desire for exploration and colonization.