A University of Virginia study found that watching fast-paced TV shows like SpongeBob SquarePants can severely compromise a child's executive function, leading to difficulties in problem-solving, self-control, and behavioral moderation. In contrast, slower-paced shows like Caillou had little impact on test scores.
A pilot study using human saliva found that curcumin inhibited a critical cell signaling pathway and reduced pro-inflammatory cytokines in patients with head and neck cancers. The study suggests curcumin could be combined with other treatments to treat head and neck cancer, and may be given to high-risk patients as an adjuvant treatment.
Wayne State University researcher Jeffrey Ram is using EPA grants to develop effective ballast water treatment systems and an early warning system for invasive species in the Great Lakes. The goal is to minimize the impact of existing invasive species and prevent new ones from entering the lakes.
A recent study investigates how individuals respond to unexpected and unsettling events, suggesting that different threat-reduction approaches can be adaptive in various situations. The researchers propose a new framework for understanding responses to such events, highlighting the importance of considering individual perspectives on t...
A new Northwestern University study confirms that human males are biologically wired to care for their offspring, showing that fatherhood significantly lowers testosterone levels. The study found that fathers who became more involved in child care experienced the largest decline in testosterone.
Blacks with prehypertension have a 35 percent greater risk of progressing to high blood pressure than whites. Lifestyle changes such as weight loss and physical activity can reduce the risk of developing high blood pressure for those with prehypertension.
Researchers discovered that a commercial enzyme can extract water from an ethanol byproduct, reducing electricity, natural gas, and energy consumption. This could significantly decrease the amount of greenhouse gases emitted during ethanol production.
The University of Houston is developing new oil dispersants as part of a major multi-institution project. The goal is to create biocompatible dispersants that are less toxic, allowing for reduced use and improved environmental impact.
Researchers studied the genetic basis of species formation in the Appalachian tiger swallowtail butterfly, a rare hybrid of Eastern and Canadian tiger swallowtails. The study reveals that hybrid speciation can create new combinations of life history and morphological traits, allowing colonization of novel environments.
A new metric called order gain measures the impact of Wi-Fi attacks on network disruption, helping design effective countermeasures. The research focuses on continuous attacks targeting networks with large numbers of users.
A new species of ancient predatory fish, Laccognathus embryi, has been discovered in North America during the Devonian Period. The 5-6 foot long fish had a wide head, small eyes, and robust jaws lined with large piercing teeth.
A US study found that many Americans believe only highly effective drugs without serious side effects are approved. Brief explanations to patients about drug benefits and harms uncertainties can help them make better choices. The FDA does not guarantee a large or important benefit from a drug or that all serious adverse effects are known.
A new study by UTHealth and BCM researchers identified a common genetic variant associated with an increased risk of thoracic aortic aneurysms and acute aortic dissections. The variant, located on chromosome 15q21.1, involves the FBN1 gene, which is also linked to Marfan syndrome.
Researchers created a simulator of a collapsed building to test portable sensors that use human metabolites, detecting carbon dioxide, ammonia, and volatile organic compounds. The study's findings hold promise for improving detection systems in disaster scenarios.
Researchers at University of Wisconsin-Madison report 99% protein similarity between two types of do-it-all stem cells, shedding light on their potential applications in cell replacement therapies. The study measured over 6,000 proteins using mass spectrometry and provides insights into their biological role.
Human gliomas implanted in mice were found to release excess levels of glutamate, overstimulating neurons and triggering seizures. Sulfasalazine, an anti-inflammatory drug, was shown to reduce seizures by inhibiting glutamate release from the tumor.
An international study identifies 28 new gene regions associated with blood pressure, including a previously unknown physiologic pathway involved in blood pressure control. The findings suggest potential targets for new hypertension drugs and may lead to improved treatment options for cardiovascular complications.
USC scientists have created the world's first high-resolution images of the α7 receptor, a molecule responsible for transmitting signals between neurons. This breakthrough promises to revolutionize drug design by allowing pharmaceutical companies to target specific receptors instead of using trial-and-error approaches.
Researchers identified 29 DNA sequence variations linked to blood pressure, suggesting a complex genetic regulatory mechanism. The study pooled data from over 200,000 people worldwide and found common genetic variants in individuals of Asian and African ancestry.
A new coral dating method developed by WHOI researcher William G. Thompson provides accurate age estimates for fossil coral reef skeletons in the Bahamas, revealing that sea levels were less stable than previously believed. The study suggests that a similar scenario to the Last Interglacial could occur if current warming trends continue.
Optofluidics, the study of microfluidics combined with optics, is poised to revolutionize energy production. By directing light and concentrating its use, optofluidics can increase efficiency in existing systems like biofuel reactors and solar cells, as well as innovate new forms of energy production.
The report emphasizes the importance of self-sustaining supply-demand systems in improving health and wellbeing for marginalized women and children globally. The authors highlight democratising technologies like mobile phones as a key opportunity for local demand to be understood, appreciated, and locally solved.
Researchers create cats with intrinsic immunity to feline AIDS by inserting protective protein genes. The technique, called gamete-targeted lentiviral transgenesis, also makes the offspring glow green for tracking purposes.
A new international study reveals that 'white' light bulbs emit shorter wavelengths that suppress melatonin production, causing behavior disruptions and health problems. The researchers recommend limiting the use of 'white' light, adjusting lampposts to reduce light pollution, and using energy-efficient lighting.
Researchers from Max Planck Society and Leibniz University Hannover have successfully applied the 'squeezed light' method to improve the sensitivity of the GEO600 gravitational wave detector. This new technology reduces shot noise by a factor of two, allowing for more accurate measurements of tiny changes in space-time.
Researchers identified 16 new gene regions associated with blood pressure and confirmed 12 previously discovered ones, providing insights into the genetic mechanisms of hypertension. The study's findings could lead to new therapeutic drug development and improved treatment options for individuals with high blood pressure.
Researchers developed a whole-parasite malaria vaccine that produced strong immune responses in a clinical trial. The vaccine, the first of its kind to earn FDA approval, showed promise in preventing malaria by inducing high levels of protective immunity.
Two studies examine the Jemez-Embudo Accommodation Zone in New Mexico and the Tennessee Salient in Appalachia, shedding light on tectonic processes. Geodynamic models and paleomagnetic data reveal no statistically significant rotation in the Rio Grande Rift and indicate a more complex history of curvature formation.
Transplantation specialists propose changes to liver organ distribution to prioritize patients with high MELD scores and reduce waitlist mortality. The new model aims to rapidly allocate organs to those most in need, ensuring timely delivery and reducing death rates.
A recent study by the USDA Forest Service estimates that non-native forest insects, such as the emerald ash borer and Asian longhorned beetle, are causing significant economic damage to urban trees. The study reveals that homeowners and local governments are bearing the greatest share of costs associated with these insects.
Tropical Storms Nate and Lee are affecting the Gulf of Mexico, while raging wildfires in Texas are also being monitored. The National Hurricane Center forecasts Nate to become a hurricane and make landfall in Mexico this weekend.
UCI researchers found that hormonal contraceptives improve women's ability to remember the gist of an emotional event, but not the details. This discovery may help explain why women experience post-traumatic stress syndrome more frequently than men.
Tropical Storm Maria is approaching the Lesser Antilles in the Caribbean Sea with maximum sustained winds near 45 mph. The storm may bring 3-5 inches of rainfall to the region, with isolated totals as high as 8 inches.
Researchers at the University of Strathclyde have developed a DNA test that can identify deer poachers by detecting low levels of human DNA on deer carcasses. The test has been shown to be effective in recovering DNA profiles from poached deer remains, with a success rate of less than one in a billion.
Researchers have discovered that HCN channels, essential for the heart's electrical signals, are vital for normal repolarization. A new animal model showed a significant reduction in repolarization phase duration when one subtype of HCN channel protein was missing.
Researchers aim to clarify the role of alpha-synuclein in spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), a genetic disease causing muscle weakness and degeneration. A better understanding of SNCA's role may lead to new therapies for SMA, potentially identifying useful disease markers and advancing neuromuscular disease research.
Invasive tree-feeding insects cause significant economic damage to homeowners, local governments, and the federal government, resulting in estimated annual losses of over $2 billion. The study highlights the need for strengthened regulations and enforcement to protect forests and economies from invasive pests.
Researchers at UCLA have developed a new algorithm that improves climate forecast accuracy by 16 months, enabling more precise predictions for agriculture and industry, while also helping identify El Niño events
Cotton technologist Paul Sawhney and his colleagues investigated using virgin cotton in nonwoven materials. They found that greige cotton, a naturally water-repellent material, can be made absorbent by controlling water pressure during processing.
Researchers identified genes expressed when diamondback moth is attacked by parasitic wasp, which could lead to new control measures and resistance management strategies. The study provides a comprehensive analysis of the impact of parasitization on host physiology.
Brazilian scientist Heldio Villar advocates for better physics teaching and environmental education on radioactivity and nuclear power generation. This approach could lead to a more informed public and reduced reliance on fossil fuels.
Researchers at the University of Texas at Austin and Pacific Northwest National Laboratory detected radioactive materials from Fukushima in the US, providing insight into the disaster's magnitude. The findings demonstrate huge advancements in nuclear monitoring technology.
A new study found that providing infants with 'sticky mittens' enhances their interest in faces, indicating advanced social development. This suggests that early motor training can benefit infants at risk for autism spectrum disorders.
Researchers at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute have developed prototype drugs with powerful anti-diabetic effects without the severe side effects of current medications. The new compounds target PPAR-gamma, a metabolic regulator controlling fat cell development, and block phosphorylation to minimize risk.
Researchers at Moffitt Cancer Center have developed a monitoring technology that can provide a better understanding of drug resistance in multiple myeloma and assist in individualized patient treatments. The technique uses Liquid Chromatography Multiple Reaction Monitoring (LC-MRM) to quantify biomarkers of human disease.
Researchers analyzed 61 years of tropical storm data to find correlations between hurricane tracks and climate patterns. They discovered that El Niño seasons tend to produce fewer storms, while those that do form are less likely to make landfall due to changes in atmospheric steering currents.
Researchers developed a small molecule called JQ1 that targets the bromodomain protein BRD4, switching off the MYC gene and slowing down cancer cell division. The study showed promising results in treating multiple myeloma and other cancers driven by MYC.
A recent study found high concentrations of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) in the deep sediments of the Indiana Harbor and Ship Canal, posing a risk to human health and the environment. The discovery was made by researchers from the University of Iowa Health Care, who used submersible vibro-coring systems to collect sediment samples.
A blood test measuring fibroblast growth factor-23 (FGF-23) levels can identify kidney disease patients who are at high risk of developing heart problems, needing dialysis, and dying prematurely. FGF-23 levels are strongly associated with key outcomes in CKD patients.
The Fermi catalog reveals a mix of known and unknown objects, with active galaxies, pulsars, and supernova remnants making up a large portion. Unassociated sources pose an intriguing mystery, sparking research into new types of gamma-ray-emitting objects.
The study estimates $1.7 billion in local government expenditures and $830 million in lost residential property values each year from invasive tree-feeding insects like the emerald ash borer and Asian longhorned beetle. Strengthening regulations and enforcement are crucial to mitigate future costs.
Researchers achieve precise control over ultrashort light pulses, enabling the manipulation of electron motion in atoms and molecules. This breakthrough enables new tools for studying sub-atomic processes and understanding atomic interactions.
A study published in Journal of Traumatic Stress found that college students showed increased stress responses to negative visual images, even those not directly exposed to the 9/11 attacks. The research suggests a broader impact on psychological processes, rethinking the severity spectrum for distress reactions.
Using autonomous unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), researchers are creating an early warning system for high-risk plant pathogens by predicting atmospheric transport barriers. This technique aims to improve crop security, disease spread, and climate change management.
A new study suggests that Cervarix vaccine may be as effective in preventing cervical cancer with fewer than three doses, offering potential cost and logistics benefits. The researchers found similar protection levels among women receiving one, two, or three doses of the vaccine.
Patients in another clinical trial have reached the two-year mark following infusion of processed adult stem cells, while a new $12.8 million NIH grant renewal aims to perfect cardiac stem cell therapy for heart regeneration after a heart attack.
Thrips infestation in cotton seedlings can lead to significant crop injury, including distortion, malformation, and reduced plant growth. Management practices for thrip infestation are discussed in the article.
Researchers from Boston Medical Center will study neurological and brain abnormalities in former extremely low gestational age newborns (ELGANS) with a $13 million NIH grant. The study aims to identify infants at high risk for neurodevelopmental disorders and establish a method for prophylactic interventions.
High levels of fibroblast growth factor-23, a hormone regulating phosphorous levels, can predict premature death in kidney patients. The discovery allows for earlier interventions with drugs to lower phosphorous and reduce hormone levels.
Tropical Storm Lee caused massive rainfall across central Louisiana, Mississippi, and northern Alabama, with some areas receiving over 250 mm. The TRMM satellite's TMPA analysis showed heavy rains extending inland from the Gulf of Mexico, with Chattanooga Tennessee breaking its all-time 24-hour rainfall record.