Researchers at the University of Sheffield have developed a new method for storing UK's nuclear waste using glass technology. The process, called vitrification, has been shown to produce glass that is resistant to damage from energetic gamma rays.
The new soybean biorefinery technology can utilize essentially every component of the soybean to produce bio-based ingredients for high-value products. This approach aims to reduce dependence on petroleum as a feedstock and increases the value of local economies.
William Hanage, a renowned expert in infectious disease epidemiology, has received the 2012 ICAAC Young Investigator Award from the American Society for Microbiology. His research focuses on understanding the factors behind the response of bacterial populations to antimicrobials and vaccines.
David M. Tobin has made significant contributions to TB meningitis treatment and is developing new approaches to tackle drug-resistant TB. His work uses zebrafish models to probe host genetic determinants of susceptibility to mycobacterial infection.
Researchers at the University of California, Irvine (UCI), have found that commercial natural gas capture accounts for up to 70% of the dramatic leveling off in atmospheric methane levels since the late-20th century. The study suggests that changes in fossil fuel use were a major factor in this trend.
A clinical trial launched by the NIH aims to determine whether a commonly used anti-inflammatory drug can reduce rates of heart attacks, strokes, and cardiovascular deaths in adults at high risk. The study will enroll 7,000 patients across the US and Canada over two years.
A new study suggests pregnancy could have a positive impact on bipolar disorder, with fewer and shorter episodes in pregnant women. The study's findings call for large, multicenter, prospective studies to better understand the natural course of the disorder.
A team of researchers found that pre-emptive cognitive training in laboratory rats can improve brain function and compensate for abnormal neural circuits. The study, published in the journal Neuron, holds promise for addressing human neuropsychiatric impairments such as schizophrenia.
Researchers found that a bacterium called Wolbachia provides energy to the worm and helps deceive the body's immune system into thinking it's fighting a different infection. The discovery could lead to shorter treatment regimes and potentially inform vaccine development for River Blindness.
A new study published in Journal of Consumer Research found that reducing desire for unhealthy foods through monitoring quantity can lead to self-control. Researchers discovered that people with high self-control eat less when consuming unhealthy foods due to increased satiation, allowing them to stop enjoying the experience faster.
The New Zealand mudsnail's ability to reproduce parthenogenically and tolerate air exposure allows it to spread across continents. Simple control measures, such as exposing fishing tools and boats to air for extended periods or using physical barriers, can help prevent its invasion.
A study published in PLoS ONE found that statin potency is a critical determinant of muscle-related side effects. Stronger statins like rosuvastatin were associated with higher rates of reported problems, highlighting the need for greater caution when prescribing these medications.
Researchers found that acetaldehyde, formed after alcohol metabolism, damages DNA and triggers cancer. People of Asian descent with a genetic variant are more susceptible to esophageal cancer due to impaired acetaldehyde conversion.
A new study from Case Western Reserve University's School of Dental Medicine found that a mother's emotional health and education level during her child's earliest years influence their oral health at age 14. The study analyzed the teeth of 224 adolescent participants and discovered that mothers with higher education levels, healthy em...
Researchers discovered two galaxies identical to the Milky Way and its companion clouds, a rare occurrence. The Galaxy and Mass Assembly survey revealed these 'twin' galaxies, which are expected to be very rare due to complex cosmic interactions.
Scientists at Oak Ridge National Laboratory have developed a microscopy technique to map oxygen vacancies in fuel cell materials, which can affect device efficiency. The research aims to improve fuel cells with longer lifetimes and lower prices.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins have successfully converted adult blood cells into induced pluripotent stem cells (iPS) using a virus-free method, achieving efficiencies of 50-60% in laboratory experiments. This breakthrough could lead to new treatments for cancer and regenerative medicine applications.
A recent study by Boston Children's Hospital found significant racial and ethnic disparities in health indicators among fifth-graders. The study revealed that children of higher-income families with more educated parents tended to perform better on these indicators, regardless of their race or ethnicity.
Research suggests that the menopause evolved to reduce competition between related women, enabling cooperation in childcare. Women who stopped reproducing around age 50 had more grandchildren due to reduced rivalry with their daughter-in-laws.
A University of Colorado analysis predicts Mitt Romney's victory in the 2012 presidential election based on state-by-state economic factors. The model suggests Obama will win 218 electoral votes but lose key swing states, including Colorado and North Carolina.
Lawrence Corey, a renowned expert in virology and immunology, has been honored with the Cubist-ICAAC Award for his pioneering work on herpes viruses, HIV, and cancer. His research has led to significant advances in antiviral therapy and vaccine development.
MMV has developed a framework to evaluate the risk of resistance for its antimalarial compounds. The framework includes cross-resistance testing and selection experiments in the laboratory, measuring the likelihood of parasite mutations that confer resistance.
Researchers found that both high and low mating rates are detrimental to female sea slug fitness, suggesting indirect benefits to traumatic mating. The study suggests that there may be additional fitness benefits beyond reproduction.
A study published in Cancer Research identified a gene that disrupts the inflammatory process implicated in liver cancer. Laboratory mice bred without this gene lacked pro-inflammatory protein TREM-1 and protected themselves from developing liver cancer after exposure to carcinogens.
A commentary by former Institute of Medicine committee members highlights the need for increased postmarket oversight and an independent ethics advisory board to address ethical challenges in drug safety. The authors emphasize the responsibility of the FDA to research participants and the importance of clear informed consent processes.
A study analyzing 371 invasion studies found that six dominant invasion hypotheses have declining predictive power. The authors suggest filling gaps in empirical tests, specifying hypotheses for groups of organisms and habitats, considering invader-ecosystem interactions, and rejecting unsupported hypotheses. This decline in predictive...
A study of 1,800 Canadian preschoolers found that those from low-income neighborhoods were more likely to drink sugary sodas and juice, while spending more time in front of screens. This research highlights the need for action on poverty-related food choices and education as a key factor in promoting healthy eating habits.
A deadly outbreak of antibiotic-resistant bacteria at NIH's Clinical Center was quelled through collaboration with genomic experts. Genome sequencing revealed the outbreak had a single source, and targeted interventions stopped its spread.
Researchers found that foreclosure disrupts neighborhoods, creating economic anxieties and decreased trust, leading to lower voter turnout. The study controlled for factors such as poverty, ethnicity, and education level, revealing a significant impact on political participation.
Researchers found that managers and non-managers exhibit differential brain activation patterns during decision-making, with managers showing a more heuristic, automated approach. This study provides insight into the neural basis of managerial decision-making and its differences from non-managerial decisions.
The Genome 10K project has released the medium ground finch genome, allowing for investigation of trait evolution and potential conservation efforts. The genome provides a unique model for studying evolutionary changes and has been linked to dialectic patterns in bird songs.
Research suggests that a mother's placental blood flow during pregnancy affects her baby's body fatness, with higher liver blood flow associated with greater body fatness. This adaptation may have evolved to prioritize brain growth but instead leads to a predisposition for obesity and diabetes in contemporary societies.
Tropical Storm Isaac is bringing heavy rainfall to the Lesser Antilles, while Tropical Depression 10 forms east of Isaac. Both storms are showing good circulation and are expected to strengthen in the coming days.
Researchers identified how certain RNA viruses hijack a key DNA repair activity of human cells to multiply, providing a new target for universal treatments. This discovery could lead to the development of broad-spectrum treatments for picornaviruses, including the common cold, without resistance issues.
A systematic review found that approximately one in five elderly prescriptions are inappropriate, with medications like diphenhydramine and propoxyphene being used incorrectly. The study highlights the need for more accurate medication prescribing practices in primary care settings.
Research reveals that paternal obesity negatively impacts fetal development, resulting in smaller fetuses and poor pregnancy success. Men are advised to get match fit before conceiving to support healthy fetal growth and reduce long-term health risks for the offspring
A study of over 6500 Britons found that both men and women's midlife wellbeing is linked to having a large network of friends. Having more than six regular social contacts was associated with better psychological wellbeing for both sexes.
Researchers are developing drugs that exploit the body's natural immune system to fight diseases. These 'antibody-recruiting molecules' can be taken orally and induce a patient's own antibodies to fight disease.
A team of researchers warns that the US may lose its position as a hub for medical discovery due to Asian nations' increased funding and long-term plans. This could lead to a 'brain drain' of top young researchers and economic damage for the US.
Researchers at UEA applied strategic thinking from insurance companies to understand how animals and plants recruit beneficial bacteria, revealing the importance of 'screening out' bad bacteria and ' screening in' good ones. The breakthrough brings scientists closer to understanding the human body's relationship with bacteria.
Researchers found a significant link between radiotherapy and an increased risk of developing diabetes in childhood cancer survivors. The study, which analyzed over 2500 patient questionnaires and medical records, suggests that radiation exposure to the tail of the pancreas may be particularly damaging.
María Soledad Ramírez has been recognized for her outstanding work on integron participation in gene capture and dissemination, a crucial area of research in antimicrobial resistance. Her extensive experience and publications have made significant contributions to public health, addressing the growing issue of antibiotic resistance.
Scientists at UCLA and the Technion have identified two brain regions that encode vowel pronunciation. The discovery may lead to new technology that verbalizes unspoken words of people paralyzed by injury or disease.
A team of researchers at Ames Laboratory has solved a century-old debate over the Fenton reaction, determining that it depends on pH levels. The discovery opens up possibilities for new uses of the reaction in wastewater treatment and industrial oxidations.
Researchers at the University of Copenhagen have discovered an enzymatic ignition key that can be turned on and off, allowing enzymes to work three times harder. This breakthrough has significant implications for understanding and potentially curing diseases such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, stroke, and acne.
A study published in the American Journal of Physiology found that 30 minutes of daily exercise resulted in significant weight loss and calorie burn, surpassing 60 minutes. The research, led by Mads Rosenkilde, also revealed that participants exercising 30 minutes per day had higher motivation to engage in physical activity.
The Muscular Dystrophy Association has awarded a $308,000 grant to support the development of a new treatment for Duchenne muscular dystrophy. The therapy, which involves a highly potent protein, aims to prevent or reverse disease progression after onset.
Researchers at Northwestern University have developed a new class of organic materials that can be used for ferroelectricity, which could improve computer memory and sensing devices. The discovery could save $6 billion in electricity costs annually if used in cloud computing.
A team of scientists has developed a new face paint that protects soldiers' faces from the intense heat generated by bomb blasts, while also providing camouflage. The makeup can shield skin for up to 15 seconds before temperature rises to cause burns.
Researchers have discovered that archived Guthrie cards hold valuable epigenetic information about newborns, which can be used to predict future health outcomes. The study found that these marks are present at birth and remain stable into early childhood, offering a unique window into the development of diseases.
Researchers connect 250 years of organic chemical knowledge into a giant computer network, optimizing syntheses of drug molecules and identifying suspicious chemical recipes. The Chematica system learns from experience and can test every possible synthesis, finding truly optimal ways to make desired chemicals.
A team of polar scientists has reconstructed a 15,000-year climate history from an ice core, showing the Antarctic Peninsula warmed by about 6°C as it emerged from the last ice age. The centuries-long warming paved the way for the recent rapid warming and ice shelf collapse, which threatens future climate and sea-level rise.
Researchers at the University of Leicester are undertaking a revolutionary treatment for heart failure using a novel nerve-stimulating device. The INOVATE-HF study aims to assess the safety and efficacy of the CardioFit system, which stimulates the vagus nerve to reduce stress on the heart.
Research published in PLOS ONE found that patients with anorexia have difficulty judging their own body size, but can accurately estimate the size of others. The study suggests that individuals with anorexia may still hold a distorted perception of their own body shape even after recovery.
A clinical study found that an antibody against interferon-gamma compromised the immune systems of HIV-negative people, making them vulnerable to infections with nontuberculous mycobacteria. The study identified autoantibodies as a possible cause of adult-onset immunodeficiency in Southeast Asia.
Researchers analyzed AVE fire evacuation strategies using computer models and a real drill. The results show that pre-evacuation is crucial, gathering all passengers together before the train stops is ideal.
A recent study suggests that yards with desert-like vegetation offer better habitat for native birds than traditional grass lawns or non-native plantings. The study used quantitative measures to assess foraging behavior of common backyard birds in Phoenix, Arizona.
Researchers found that rats with brain lesions developed schizophrenia-like symptoms if not trained, but those who received early cognitive training as adolescents showed no signs of the disorder. The study suggests that experience and learning can overcome neural disabilities, paving the way for new treatments for mental disorders.
Researchers have developed a new imaging technique that can detect subtle changes in fetal brain structure and facial features associated with prenatal alcohol exposure. The study's findings suggest that the timing of maternal alcohol use during pregnancy can influence the severity and type of birth defects, expanding the scope for dia...
Researchers mapped ant genomes to reveal relationship between epigenetic regulation and caste differentiation. DNA methylation patterns correlated with alternative splicing events and caste-specific genes.