A new study suggests that income inequality and distrust foster academic dishonesty. The research, published in Psychological Science, found that states with higher income inequality had lower levels of trust and more evidence of cheating among students.
The NRC report highlights accelerated global warming in the Arctic and Antarctica, with serious retreat of ice sheets and rising sea levels. Researchers emphasize the urgent need for balancing energy needs with addressing climate change.
Researchers found that consuming low-glycemic index foods at breakfast can lead to lower blood glucose concentrations and increased feelings of fullness, making it easier to manage weight and prevent diabetes. Almonds are a particularly beneficial food choice due to their high content of healthy fats and protein.
Researchers identified 147 genetic regions in sticklebacks that enable adaptation to marine and freshwater environments. Regulatory changes predominate, with most differences occurring in non-coding regions of the genome.
BIND-014, a novel Accurin nanoparticle, demonstrates high drug concentration in tumors and promising clinical effects in advanced or metastatic cancers. Preclinical data show up to ten-fold increase in intratumoral drug concentrations with prolonged tumor growth suppression.
A study published in Neuropsychopharmacology found that low doses of olanzapine improved survival in mice with exercise-based anorexia, a common condition in people with the eating disorder. The antidepressant fluoxetine was ineffective in improving survival rates.
Researchers identified specific genomic changes that enable fish populations to adapt to new environments, revealing the importance of regulatory changes. The study also found that large DNA inversions can lead to the formation of separate species.
A large multicenter study found that patients with community-onset Clostridium difficile infection have a four times higher risk of colectomy compared to those who developed symptoms in the hospital. Older adults and individuals with severe cases are also at higher risk for CDI-related colectomies.
A compound found in red wine and fruits can block the development of immature fat cells, according to a Purdue University study. The compound, piceatannol, alters gene expressions and insulin action during adipogenesis, delaying or inhibiting the formation of mature fat cells.
A study analyzing blood samples from RV144 trial participants found that those with high levels of a certain antibody were less likely to get infected. Researchers believe this may indicate the need for a different type of immune response in an HIV vaccine, but further testing is needed.
A preclinical study found that patients with KRAS gene mutations have a worse prognosis and do not respond well to targeted therapies. However, patients with KRAS-mutant tumors may respond well to treatment with antifolates, especially if the mutation is not amplified.
The University of Pennsylvania is leading a $10 million National Science Foundation project to develop computer-assisted programming tools that can make coding faster, easier and more intuitive. The ExCAPE team aims to leverage advances in verification technology to help programmers avoid mistakes in the first place.
Fathers are four times more likely than mothers to transmit spontaneous mutations to their children with autism, increasing the child's risk five to 20 fold. Researchers found that these tiny genetic glitches play a significant role in ASDs and may provide clues to new treatments.
African American women are more likely to have estrogen receptor (ER) negative breast cancer due to genetic variations in the vitamin D receptor. Vitamin D deficiency is also common among these women, but those with specific genetic variations may have reduced risk.
The study reveals that changes to both genes and DNA stretches controlling gene activity have driven sticklebacks' adaptation to fresh water. Reused genetic regions, including armor genes and those involved in metabolism and developmental signaling, helped remodel fish into forms better suited to freshwater environments.
A University of Tennessee professor proposes a game-changing hypothesis that some species evolve by discarding genes rather than adding them. This idea counters the popular assumption that evolution increases complexity and highlights the importance of biological diversity in microorganisms.
A recent study published in Nature sequenced exomes of 175 trios with autism spectrum disorder and found many new gene mutations, but few definitive causes. The researchers observed an increased protein-protein connectivity among affected genes and implicated two genes, KATNAL2 and CHD8, as potential risk factor genes.
The new laser design relies on a million rubidium atoms doing synchronized line dances to produce dim but brighter laser light. The superradiant laser's stability is less sensitive to mirror motion, making it potentially 1,000-fold more stable than conventional lasers.
The NIH Fogarty Global Health Program for Fellows and Scholars will provide 400 early-career health scientists with mentored research experiences in developing countries. The program aims to train a new generation of global health researchers capable of tackling pressing health problems.
A new vaccine developed by Inserm researchers reduces both hypersensitivity to allergens and inflammatory response in asthmatic mice. The vaccine is based on DNA sequences of the allergenic substance Derf1 and has shown promising results in animal studies.
Researchers at NIH have discovered how arsenic exposure can turn normal stem cells into cancer stem cells, spur tumor growth. This finding suggests that cancer may be a stem-cell-based disease and has implications for understanding carcinogenesis.
A study published in Significance magazine reveals three key factors that contribute to Usain Bolt's improved performance: optimizing reaction time, benefiting from favorable wind conditions, and running at altitude. By shaving off 0.13s from his world record, Bolt can achieve a faster time of 9.45s.
Researchers have developed a new technique to visualize fat distribution in lab mice using X-ray computed tomography (CT), allowing for non-invasive and longitudinal studies. This method provides detailed images of fat volumes within the mouse, enabling researchers to study adipose content at high levels.
Laboratory studies of the RV144 vaccine have found that antibodies specific to a particular region of the HIV outer coat correlate with lower infection rates among vaccinated individuals. In contrast, high levels of a different type of envelope binding antibody appear to offer less protection against HIV.
The University of South Florida has launched its first CAMLS fellowship sponsored by Simbionix, a leading provider of medical simulation training. The fellowship will focus on leadership development in healthcare simulation education and training for students in medicine, nursing, pharmacy, and public health professions.
A recent study found that illicit drug use among 50- to 64-year-olds in England has significantly increased, with lifetime cannabis use rising from 1.0% in 1993 to 11.4% in 2007. Recent cannabis use also showed a substantial increase. Other illicit drugs used were less common.
Researchers found that memory decline speeds up in the last two-and-a-half years of life compared to previous stages, with mentally active individuals showing better cognitive health. Activities such as reading and playing board games were linked to preserved memory during late life.
Researchers found that carbon nanotubes significantly enhance plant cell division and growth by activating channels for water transport. The study demonstrates the potential to transform agricultural practices and improve industrial productivity.
A new study published in Annals of Emergency Medicine found that early administration of systemic corticosteroids can reduce hospital admissions for children with moderate or severe asthma attacks. By prioritizing treatment within 75 minutes of triage, patients are more likely to avoid admission and stay reduced by almost 45 minutes.
A large-scale genetic study reveals that triple negative breast cancer tumours exhibit a continuum of different types, making them difficult to treat. The discovery highlights the importance of tailoring cancer drug treatment to individual tumour profiles.
A University of Colorado Cancer Center study found that men taking crizotinib for lung cancer experience a significant drop in testosterone levels, which can lead to fatigue, low bone density, and decreased sex drive. Regular monitoring and treatment of testosterone deficiency can improve patients' overall quality of life.
A phase II clinical trial showed encouraging survival in patients with stage 3B/4 non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) treated with belagenpumatucel-L. The median survival rate was 14.5 months, and the five-year survival rate was 20%. Patients with stable disease had a longer median survival of 44 months.
A DNA sequencing consortium has identified patterns of mutations in autism, highlighting hundreds of genes and pinpointing two specific genes as strong risk factors. The study found that de novo point mutations play a role in the development of autism, with some genes more connected to each other than expected.
Elite soccer players exhibit superior executive functions compared to non-players, correlating with performance in goals and assists. Cognitive flexibility and creativity are also essential components of top-tier athleticism.
A Cornell University food science student team has developed a heart-healthy, nutritionally enhanced hummus product called Hummus+ made from chickpeas, sweet potato and butternut squash. The product boasts higher potassium, fiber, and vitamin A content, and lower sodium and saturated fat than current store offerings.
Scientists link ancient global warming events to thawing permafrost, revealing a significant source of carbon in Polar Regions. This discovery highlights the vulnerability of frozen soils to climate warming and the potential for a positive feedback loop amplifying future warming.
A study published in the Journal of Nutrition found that genetically-determined differences in salivary amylase activity influence blood glucose levels after starch consumption. Individuals with high salivary amylase activity tend to have lower blood glucose levels and may be better adapted to eat starch-rich foods.
Researchers aim to identify compounds disabling the NS2 protein, crucial for HCV replication, with a novel high-throughput screening test. The goal is to develop chemical tools to study NS2's role in HCV biology and potentially discover new treatments.
Tropical Storm Daphne brought heavy rainfall and flooding to the Fuji Islands in Fiji, causing at least three deaths and thousands of evacuations. The storm's rainfall totals reached over 600 millimeters, with some areas experiencing intense rain within a wide band of precipitation.
A powerful weather system moved through eastern Texas, dropping at least 15 tornadoes in the Dallas suburbs. The NOAA's GOES-13 satellite captured the movement of the storm system, showing the progression of the frontal system that generated the twisters.
A recent study found that some 'improved cookstoves' (ICs) may emit more black carbon particles than traditional mud stoves or open-cook fires. This raises concerns about the effectiveness of ICs as a clean cooking solution in developing countries.
Researchers are investigating ways to improve horse vaccinations to defend foals against pathogens at an early age. Preliminary data suggests that vaccinating foals as young as 3 months old may increase protection against environmental pathogens.
Researchers at the University of Melbourne have discovered a potential treatment for Duchenne muscular dystrophy by increasing levels of heat shock protein 72 in muscles, improving muscle strength and slowing disease progression.
Unmarried baby boomers are disproportionately affected by economic and social outcomes, including lower economic resources, poorer health, and a higher prevalence of disability. They also face significant barriers to accessing health insurance.
A recent study found that sexual objectification of female artists in music videos is a pervasive issue across all genres, with African-American artists wearing more provocative attire. The research suggests that music videos can play a significant role in shaping young audiences' perceptions of attractiveness and value.
A study of 7,131 participants in Paris found that shopping at discount supermarkets or in areas with poorly educated consumers is associated with higher body mass indices (BMI) and waist circumferences. Supermarket size and produce quality were not linked to BMI or waist circumference.
Researchers at USC and international partners successfully built a quantum computer inside a diamond, showcasing solid-state computing's potential. The device protects against decoherence, a major obstacle to quantum systems, by utilizing microwave pulses to stabilize electron spin rotation.
Researchers have successfully tested the first targeted cancer drug called BIND-014, demonstrating its ability to target receptors in tumors and achieve high tumor concentrations. The study shows remarkable efficacy, safety, and pharmacological properties compared to traditional chemotherapy.
Researchers have identified three active variants of a conotoxin that blocks the transmission of pain signals in nerves. These venomous peptides, derived from cone snails, show great promise for developing new painkillers with minimal dependency and faster degradation rates.
A new medical college admission test (MCAT) is proposed to prioritize knowledge of behavioral and social sciences. The authors argue that this shift will help practicing physicians address modifiable behaviors contributing to premature deaths in the US.
A study by Ohio State University researchers found that internet use is most effective in promoting democracy in countries with partial freedoms. In these nations, increased internet penetration and online activity drive demand for democratic reforms. However, the internet has limited impact in highly authoritarian regimes, where ruler...
The Genzyme/ACMG Foundation Awards support clinicians in biochemical genetics, with a focus on metabolic diseases. The 2012-2013 recipients, Dr. Carlos E. Prada and James D. Weisfeld-Adams, received $75,000 per year for one year of clinical genetics subspecialty training.
The aging baby boomer population is driving demand for food products that can help manage chronic conditions like diabetes, vision loss, and bone/joint problems. Food scientists are exploring ways to create healthier options, including clearly labeling foods as suitable for specific health needs.
Case Western Reserve University has erected its third and largest wind turbine, a 1-megawatt utility-scale power generator, to provide working laboratories for researchers. The turbines are being used to develop better products and improve efficiency, with the ultimate goal of establishing a wind-energy supply chain in Northeast Ohio.
A University of Miami study shows that religious individuals are more likely to delay gratification and prefer larger rewards over time. This ability is positively correlated with their commitment to religious teachings and institutions.
A team of researchers used mobile devices to collect data on nicotine addiction and found that successful quitters had a weaker association between their urge to smoke and their ability to quit. The study suggests that baseline nicotine dependence and negative emotional states influence people's urge to smoke while trying to quit.
Researchers at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center have discovered an antibody therapy that prevents lethal gastrointestinal damage following radiation exposure in mice. The treatment, which targets ceramide molecules, improved survival rates from 0% to 80% among mice exposed to high levels of ionizing radiation.
Research discovered a protein complex called the Translocation and Assembly Module (TAM), which forms a molecular pump allowing bacteria to shuttle disease-causing molecules from inside to outside the bacterial cell. This finding paves the way for designing new drugs that inhibit this process, potentially preventing antibiotic resistance.
Researchers at Purdue University found that popular free apps spend up to 75% of their energy tracking user location, sending info to advertisers and downloading ads. A new tool called eprof analyzes app energy consumption, revealing a way to improve energy efficiency by reducing power drain in interactive programs.
A new £13 million UK Centre for Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) Research will be established to drive innovative research and development. The centre, coordinated by the University of Edinburgh, aims to support the UK economy by driving an integrated research programme focused on maximising CCS contribution to a low-carbon energy system.
Researchers have identified protein biomarkers that can help determine which GBM patients may benefit from standard treatment, enabling personalized medicine. A 'systems' approach also found networks of genes that characterize short-term survivors from long-term GBM survivors.
Research published in PLoS ONE reveals that photographs of children with Down syndrome elicit less positive attitudes than those of typically developing children. The study found a strong negative bias among caregivers working with intellectually disabled persons.
A study of eight male giant pandas found that reproductive fitness varies throughout the year, with waves of activity occurring 3-5 months before most females display estrus. This new understanding will help improve captive panda management and potentially aid in reintroducing pandas into the wild.
The Institute of Food Technologists' Wellness 12 meeting highlighted the need for simple language to communicate phytonutrient benefits. Phytonutrients, such as beta carotene and lycopene, promote health when consumed as part of a balanced diet. The industry must agree on clear messages and present them consistently to consumers.
A study discovered Bacillus cereus bacteria in a pharmacy robot's washing station, contaminating intravenous drugs. The contamination highlights the need for strengthened cleaning and maintenance procedures to prevent life-threatening infections.
Scientists have discovered that water can float on oil under certain conditions, depending on the size of the droplet and type of oil. This finding has important potential applications in cleaning up oil spills.
Researchers have discovered that different species of dinosaurs had distinct egg shapes, with some being more elongate and symmetrical than bird eggs. This new research has significant implications for understanding the origins of modern Easter eggs.
Researchers have generated a 65-year record of Southern Hemisphere nitrous oxide measurements to better understand the long-lived greenhouse gas's impact on climate and stratospheric ozone depletion. The study found a 20% increase in atmospheric nitrous oxide since 1750, largely attributed to agricultural sources.
The Atlas of Living Australia has added over half a million records, including those from 17th-century Dutch navigators, to reach its 30-millionth species occurrence record. This milestone is made possible through collaborative efforts between museums, universities, and the CSIRO.
Researchers at Fox Chase Cancer Center have developed a new approach to overcome drug resistance in colorectal cancer patients. Their novel drug, ARI-4175, has shown promise in extending survival by enlisting the body's own immune system to reject tumors.
Spotted hyenas adapt to changing human food sources during the 55-day Abye Tsome (Lent) fast, shifting from scavenging to hunting, with donkey hairs found in their droppings increasing significantly during Lent
Researchers found that flies didn't exhibit expected siestas during the day and instead became active at dawn. The study suggests that flies can react to changing light levels without anticipating them, challenging previous assumptions about genetic determinants of behavior.
A recent study by Yale University researchers found that approximately 15% of autism cases in families with a single autistic child are associated with spontaneous genetic mutations. The study analyzed DNA sequencing data from 238 families and identified hundreds of de novo sequence variations linked to an increased risk for autism.
A study published in The Journal of Neuroscience found that primitive brain structures activate before neocortex when individuals regain consciousness after general anesthesia. This discovery provides new insights into the emergence of consciousness and its relationship with brain function.
The closest large elliptical galaxy to the Milky Way, Centaurus A has a twisted disc of dust near its centre, formed from a cosmic collision with another galaxy. The galaxy's powerful heart features two massive jets streaming from a massive black hole, emitting strong radio emission and visible in far-infrared images.
John A. Kaufman, a professor and Frederick S. Keller Chair of Interventional Radiology, was awarded the 2012 Dr. Charles T. Dotter Lecture for his extraordinary contributions to the field. The award also recognizes his dedication to interventional radiology training and education.
A new study suggests that improving or maintaining physical fitness helps obese and overweight children reach a healthy weight. The research found that students who were initially underfit became fit, leading to a healthier weight, with benefits seen in both boys and girls.
The Minneapolis Heart Institute will receive $63 million to support innovative stem cell therapy development for heart disease, as part of the National Institutes of Health's Cardiovascular Cell Therapy Research Network. The network aims to drive public health advances in cardiovascular cell therapy.
A study of 1,939 elderly people in Spain found that 62.3% of men and 37.4% of women are sexually active, with common practices including kisses, caresses, and vaginal penetration. Factors limiting sexual activity include physical illness, widowerhood, age, education level, and health perception.
Beans, pulses and legumes are a good source of protein, fiber and nutrients like potassium and folate. Most Americans do not consume enough of them in their diets, with refried beans being the most common form reported.
A new study by UCLA researchers has discovered a single instance of two independent mutations disrupting the SCN2A gene in affected siblings, confirming its importance. The study found multiple variations between unaffected and affected groups, making promising new candidates for autism susceptibility genes.
A new study published in Neurology finds that consuming flavonoids, particularly anthocyanins found in berries, can significantly reduce the risk of developing Parkinson's disease. Male participants who ate the most flavonoids were 40% less likely to develop the disease than those who ate the least.
Two studies published in Neurology find that memory decline accelerates in the two- and-a-half years before death, while mentally stimulating activities like reading and board games may help preserve cognitive function during late life.
Researchers propose that thawing permafrost 50 million years ago released massive amounts of carbon into the atmosphere, triggering global warming events. The study suggests a simple new mechanism for past global warming events and highlights the potential for similar feedback loops in modern times.
Glioblastoma is an incurable disease with a one-year survival rate. Researchers at the Feinstein Institute are presenting new data on potential treatments, including pharmacological inhibition of microglia and PDZ-RhoGEF.
Researchers found a common network of interactions among genes mutated in children with autism, affecting brain cell formation and signaling. The study also discovered that most new mutations were paternal in origin, correlating with the age of the father.
A new study has found a link between injectable contraceptives and increased breast cancer risk in young women, particularly those who have recently used the birth control method. Recent DMPA use for over a year was associated with a 2.2-fold increased risk of invasive breast cancer, which dissipates after discontinuation.
Researchers discovered a new gene, SORL1, associated with early-onset forms of Alzheimer's disease. Mutations in this gene may contribute to the development of the disease by increasing beta-amyloid peptide production.
According to UBC research, young males who have been sexually abused are five times more likely to cause teen pregnancy compared to those with no abuse history. Sexually abused boys are also three times more likely to have multiple sexual partners.
New research reveals that rainfall has a greater impact on China's agriculture than rising temperatures. The study, published in the Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture, found that maize is sensitive to warming but not as affected by rainfall variability as previously thought.
SourceWiley·JournalJournal of the Science of Food and Agriculture·DateApr 4, 2012
Researchers at Fox Chase Cancer Center have developed a new cell and animal model of inflammatory breast cancer, which may provide a better understanding of the disease and help with developing effective interventions. The model recapitulates aggressive metastasis and cancer stem cell activity associated with poor outcomes in patients.
A new fractionated dosing regimen of gemtuzumab ozogamicin significantly improves event-free survival and overall survival for patients with acute myeloid leukaemia. The regimen reduces toxicity while delivering a high cumulative dose of the drug.
A report by Arizona State University found that existing US laws offer numerous opportunities to incorporate health impact assessments (HIAs) in various sectors such as transportation, energy, and agriculture. HIAs can help decision makers identify and address potential health risks and benefits of their decisions.
A multi-institutional team of researchers has identified two genes as 'genuine risk factors' for autism spectrum disorders. The study, published in Nature, used massively parallel sequencing to search for mutations that might affect autism risk and found that these genes are functionally related and physically interact with each other.
Researchers reconstruct global surface temperatures and find that average temperature correlated with rising CO2 levels, indicating the greenhouse effect played a key role in ending the last Ice Age. The study provides evidence that CO2 caused much of the global warming, contrasting previous efforts that only examined local temperatures.
Researchers identified CHD8, SNC2A, and KATNAL2 gene mutations as risk factors for autism. The studies provide a better understanding of the genetic changes and biological pathways involved in autism spectrum disorders.
A new sorghum plant has been developed that can withstand drought and produce toxins without harming animals. The breakthrough is expected to provide farmers with a reliable source of food during droughts, saving hundreds of millions of dollars annually.
The Metabolomips group has developed a methodology for detecting gunshot residues, which can produce reliable analyses within an hour. They have also created a method to identify antipsychotic drugs in the human brain, with potential applications in forensic analysis and post-mortem diagnostic tests.
Researchers analyzed immune responses in RV144 trial participants and found that antibodies specific to the V1V2 region correlated with lower infection rates. Vaccine recipients with high levels of IgA envelope protein binding antibody had less protection from HIV than those with low levels.
Australians and Koreans have linked their radio telescopes for the first time, creating a gigantic telescope spanning over 8,000 km. The combined system has 100 times the resolving power of the Hubble Space Telescope, enabling scientists to study distant galaxies in unprecedented detail.
BIND Biosciences presents late-breaker clinical data for BIND-014, a targeted docetaxel Accurin, showing anti-tumor activity in six of 17 patients with advanced or metastatic solid tumor cancers. The study demonstrated partial response or stable disease with durable responses of up to six months.
A partnership between DyStar and RedElec Technologie may improve the environmental profile of indigo dyeing by eliminating sodium hydrosulfite. The new process aims to reduce waste and stop a water pollution problem at its source.
Studies of 32 ecological communities reveal that a species' role depends on its evolutionary history, not geographic location. This knowledge allows conservationists to focus efforts on vital parts of an ecosystem and predict species' responses to changes.