A trial of peer tutoring in Scotland's primary schools found that children as young as seven to eight years old can benefit from a twenty-minute weekly session. The boost to school pupils' attainment provided by peer tutoring was equivalent to about three months progress in both maths and reading.
A joint program between Shell and the University of Texas at Austin aims to address challenges in the unconventional oil and gas industry through research and collaboration, focusing on developing safe and responsible methods for harnessing shale gas resources.
A $23.2 million grant has been awarded to Rutgers University and the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey (UMDNJ) to continue research on developing drug products to treat individuals exposed to mustard gas, a deadly chemical agent used in chemical warfare.
Benjamin P. Howden, a leading expert in S. aureus and E. faecium research, receives the award for his groundbreaking work on antimicrobial resistance mechanisms and virulence. His research has led to new insights into vancomycin-intermediate S. aureus and reduced linezolid susceptibility.
A study found that stronger graduated driver licensing programs were associated with lower fatal crash incidence among 16-year-old drivers, but a higher incidence among 18-year-olds. The programs restricted nighttime driving and allowed passengers, leading to fewer crashes among younger teens but more among older teenagers.
The study reveals that neurons normalize receiving signals by adjusting their morphological characteristics, making it easier to receive farther signals. The research team's 3D image reconstruction of minute dendritic tree morphology demonstrates the size and distance of dendritic trees determine signal clarity and strength.
Researchers warn that building codes may overestimate safety in regions prone to both seismic and wind hazards, increasing the risk of structural damage. A new method assesses combined risks using a common metric, showing that dual-hazard conditions can double the risk of failure.
Researchers found that adenosine can modulate the entry of large molecules into the brain, establishing a gateway into the blood-brain barrier. They successfully transported large dextrans and antibodies into the brain using an FDA-approved drug, Lexiscan.
ELIXIR will provide sustainable infrastructure for managing biological information in Europe, securing public access to genes, proteins, and complex networks. The initiative aims to support life science research and its translation to medicine and the environment.
Researchers have developed a diagnostic tool that uses brain activity patterns to give an objective physiologic assessment of pain, accurately predicting thermal pain in healthy subjects 81% of the time. The study aims to improve detection and treatment of chronic pain.
A new study from the University of Illinois found that pairing broccoli with spicy foods containing myrosinase significantly enhances its individual cancer-fighting power. This is achieved by ensuring absorption takes place in the upper digestive system, where sulforaphane can be quickly and effectively released.
Leadership plays a critical role in improving healthcare quality, particularly in nursing homes where the aging population is increasing. Effective communication and teamwork strategies are essential for implementing new technologies and enhancing patient safety practices.
Researchers at Princeton University found that changes in gene activity consistently coincided with the worsening of a patient's condition. The study used blood samples from 168 blunt-force trauma patients and identified two sets of genes that showed massive fluctuations in expression as patients developed complications and neared death.
A study found that gene expression changes in some patients following major trauma can lead to severe inflammatory complications. Researchers used DNA microarrays to analyze blood samples and identified genes associated with long-term outcomes. This discovery could help scientists develop new drug targets to prevent such complications.
Richard Alley, a leading climate researcher, is recognized for his groundbreaking work on abrupt climate change. His discovery that the last Ice Age ended in just three years has debunked the myth of slow climate change and highlights the need for urgent action.
Researchers from KEMRI-Wellcome Trust Programme in Kenya modified informed consent processes to consider local social, cultural, and economic contexts. Locally adapted communication processes strengthened informed consent, particularly in international research.
Researchers identified the oxytocin receptor gene OXTR as linked to psychological resources, finding that people with specific variants have lower levels of optimism and higher depressive symptoms. The study suggests training oneself in optimism, self-esteem, and mastery can improve coping skills.
A new study from Mount Sinai School of Medicine reveals that thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) directly influences bone growth, contrary to its usual thyroid functions. The findings suggest TSH may be a novel method for addressing bone production and could lead to innovative treatments for osteoporosis.
Researchers developed a novel technique to analyze metabolite concentrations at high spatial resolution in plant cells. The study found that metabolites are regulated and fluctuate under stress conditions, highlighting the role of the vacuole in cellular processes.
A team of researchers at Hebrew University has discovered a way to block superantigen toxins that cause fatal immune storms. They created protein decoys that mimic the contact domain between superantigens and CD28 receptors, effectively inhibiting the immune response.
Substitution of brand name immunosuppressive drug with a generic drug appears to be safe for transplant recipients. The study reveals that this change can lead to significant cost savings through long-term use of the generic product.
The study found that brain patterns from objects can be used to decipher scene patterns, providing a new insight into how the brain processes surroundings. This discovery could lead to improved treatment strategies for patients with brain injuries affecting scene recognition.
Researchers developed a small molecule receptor that can detect a lipid molecule revealing cellular death, particularly in cancer cells targeted by anti-cancer drugs. The discovery could enable oncologists to determine the effectiveness of anti-cancer drugs in days rather than weeks.
A study by UNH exercise scientists confirms the Talk Test's effectiveness in gauging exercise intensity, but reveals it relates best to lactate threshold and not ventilatory threshold. The test involves rating comfort while speaking during exercise.
A novel software system developed by SDSC researchers was used in the first global camera trap study of mammals, documenting 105 species across seven protected areas. The study confirms that habitat loss and smaller reserves have a direct impact on mammal diversity and survival.
Several prominent scientists respond to a call for rethinking the current approach to mental health care, highlighting innovative programs like those developed by the US Department of Veterans Affairs. The authors emphasize the need to reduce the burden of mental illness in the United States through improved treatment and accessibility.
Alaska Natives have reported warming temperatures, changes in vegetation patterns, and unpredictable weather conditions, affecting their traditional way of life. Thinning ice shortens winter travel seasons and hampers subsistence activities, while lower snowmelt flows strain local economies.
A study found that patients with BAV have an increased risk of aortic dissection, with a 8.4 times higher risk compared to the general population. The 25-year risk of aortic surgery was also high, at 53%. The researchers highlight the importance of close monitoring and early recognition for prevention.
A new imaging technique allows researchers to assess nerve damage and healing in live patients, providing a non-invasive method for diagnosing nerve injuries. The technique uses lasers to create images of individual neurons' insulating sheaths, revealing the extent of myelin loss and recovery.
Autism Speaks has launched a new toolkit to help parents prepare their child for blood draws and routine medical procedures, reducing stress and improving the overall experience. The tool kit provides practical strategies, visual supports, and guidance for medical practitioners to create a smoother approach.
Researchers introduce the 'midway' strategy to produce sustainable ethanol from sugarcane, minimizing impacts on biodiversity. The approach involves biotechnology, genetically improved crops, and policies supporting sustainable land management.
A new evidence-based tool has been developed to evaluate doctoral programs in African universities, incorporating perspectives from students, staff, and policy makers. The tool aims to strengthen capacity and justify external funding inputs, benefiting universities across different countries.
Zachary A. Klase has been awarded the ICAAC Young Investigator Award for his groundbreaking research on HIV-1 pathogenesis and RNA interference mechanisms in mammalian cells. His work focuses on understanding HIV transcription regulation, microRNA processing, and innate immune signaling.
Jörn Coers is honored by the American Society for Microbiology for his work on immune responses against intracellular pathogens. His research focuses on host-pathogen interactions and has revealed key insights into diseases caused by Chlamydia.
Researchers at UCSF found that mice lacking a specific enzyme are less responsive to nicotine and alcohol, suggesting a promising target for a dual treatment approach. The discovery could lead to medications that reduce reward craving in people struggling with addiction.
Researchers at Michigan State University found that organisms quickly evolve ways to compensate for genetic and genomic disruptions in sex determination. The study used an experimental evolution approach to study adaptations in nematodes and showed that the mechanisms themselves are flexible and adaptable from an evolutionary viewpoint.
The University of Houston is testing Metro's hybrid and regular buses for fuel efficiency, measuring emissions under controlled conditions. Researchers will track fuel economy and emissions using the university's chassis dynamometer test cell.
A team of evolutionary biologists found that when mothers control offspring sex ratios, sexual selection collapses, and males lose their elaborate courtship displays to attract females. This twist adds unexpected complexity to Darwin's theory of sexual selection, suggesting that motherly control can override the need for showy males.
The University of Miami's Stable Isotope Laboratory has acquired new equipment for analyzing stable isotopes using the 'clumped isotope' technique. This method measures temperature with high accuracy, allowing researchers to study past climates and geological processes.
A retrospective study of 17,872 patients found no association between statin use and increased risk of intracerebral hemorrhage after ischemic stroke. The study's results contradict previous findings and suggest that current treatment guidelines recommending statin therapy for most patients with a history of ischemic stroke may be safe.
A new study reveals that stimulation of female genital regions activates distinct sites in the sensory cortex, contradicting claims of clitoral superiority. Researchers mapped responses to clitoral, vaginal, cervical, and nipple self-stimulation using fMRI, demonstrating significant activation in specific brain areas.
A transgenic mouse model exhibiting behavioral parallels with humans diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder has improved scientific understanding and may lead to diagnostic tests based on biomarkers. The research could also help design targeted interventions and treatments.
The center aims to accelerate the translation of basic-level discoveries into commercial markets, with a focus on developing sustainable materials chemistry. Researchers will leverage environmentally friendly approaches to synthesize and fabricate compounds, thin films, and composite materials for various applications.
A study published in Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology found that low-dose aspirin increases the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding, particularly when combined with other medications. However, proton pump inhibitor use can reduce this risk.
A study found that flu vaccination rates among nursing home healthcare workers significantly reduced flu outbreaks, with a 87% decrease when 51-75% of staff were vaccinated. Higher resident vaccination rates surprisingly correlated with increased outbreak risk, highlighting the importance of vaccinating healthcare personnel.
Researchers found that nearly 700,000 people in the US experience ischemic strokes each year, with about 160,000 being recurrent. Despite high compliance rates, medication non-compliance is a major risk factor for stroke and heart disease.
A University of Toronto-led team has observed extreme brightness changes on a nearby brown dwarf, suggesting the presence of a gigantic storm. The researchers used an infrared camera to capture repeated images of the brown dwarf over several hours, revealing the largest variations in brightness ever seen.
Researchers evaluate the usability of mobile voting systems on smartphones, finding that participants with smartphone experience complete tasks more accurately. The study suggests designing mobile voting systems to accommodate inexperienced voters' mental models to increase usability and accuracy.
A study published in Scientometrics suggests that pressure to report only positive results is driving a decline in scientific research globally. The analysis of over 4,600 papers found that the proportion of studies with contradictory findings decreased from 1990 to 2007.
Researchers found that social networks and confidence in maintaining sobriety in social situations are key factors in successful recovery through AA. The study analyzed data from over 1,700 participants and showed that increased participation in AA during the first three months led to more successful recovery over the following year.
Nine LCC science projects have received $1.2 million in WaterSMART funding to support research on climate change impacts, water efficiency, and ecosystem health. These projects will inform federal, state, and local managers in Arizona, California, Colorado, Nevada, New Mexico, Texas, Utah, Wyoming, and Northern Mexico.
A team of researchers has proposed a method to harness parabolic mirrors to drive solar-powered lasers, achieving an impressive 35% conversion rate. The new solar lasers would concentrate light with a small parabolic mirror, strike a ceramic disk, and emit laser light of a specific wavelength.
Researchers found respiratory alkalosis in children with febrile seizures and metabolic acidosis in pediatric patients admitted for gastroenteritis. The study suggests that applying 5% carbon dioxide to breathing air could be a possible treatment for febrile seizures.
A three-year study will investigate the psychological factors associated with suicide among LGBT youth, including thwarted belongingness and perceived burdensomeness. The research aims to identify risk factors and develop preventive messaging and interventions to reduce suicidal behaviors.
A study by David Smith and colleagues found that women's memory is sensitive to male voice pitch, a cue important for mate choice. Women preferred low pitch male voices and remembered objects more accurately when introduced by deep male voices.
Researchers at Duke University Medical Center have found a genetic variant associated with lower five-year survival rates after coronary artery bypass graft. The thrombomodulin (THBD) gene was independently linked to increased long-term mortality risk following CABG procedure.
Researchers found that the risk of death from CO2 poisoning is about one in 100 million. The study also suggests that engineered gas storage underground could be even safer due to planning and monitoring.
Researchers have found that Fasudil, a vasodilator used to treat cardiovascular problems, can slow the growth of leukemia cells by blocking the activity of Rho kinase. The study showed promising results in laboratory tests and extended survival in mice with leukemia.
SAFEPED is a computer simulation that integrates robotics and statistics on driver and pedestrian behavior to determine the environmental features leading to dangerous intersections. The model allows traffic planners to analyze and fix black spots, test and redesign junctions for optimal safety.
Researchers have developed a novel antireflective coating using randomly oriented silicon nanowires, capturing a broad spectrum of light waves and increasing solar cell efficiency. The process is relatively inexpensive and could be scaled up for large manufacturing operations.