A new study has found that eating moderate amounts of chocolate each week may be associated with a lower risk of stroke in men. The study, which included over 37,000 Swedish men, found that those who consumed the most chocolate had a 17% lower risk of stroke.
Two groups of blind cave fishes from Australia and Madagascar are each other's closest relatives, descending from a common ancestor separated by continental drift nearly 100 million years ago. The study identifies new species that add to existing biological evidence for the existence of Gondwana.
A new study by Scripps researchers suggests that California heatwaves are changing due to global warming, with more humid and intense heatwaves emerging in coastal areas. The increasing trend has significant implications for the state's population living near the ocean, who may not be prepared for extreme heat despite being accustomed ...
A new study reveals alarmingly high levels of extensively drug-resistant tuberculosis worldwide, with nearly 44% of patients showing resistance to at least one second-line drug. The highest prevalence was seen in South Korea and Russia, with the risk of XDR disease quadrupled in previously treated patients.
A new study by the University of Leicester found that high volumes of sound from earphones can damage nerve cell coatings, leading to temporary deafness. The researchers identified a pathway from exposure to loud noises to hearing loss and believe their findings could bring significant healthcare benefits.
A new method, called laser shock-induced shaping, enables the tuning of nanowires by altering electrical and optoelectrical properties critical for electronic components and instruments. Graphene was also successfully shaped using this technique.
Researchers at Mayo Clinic found that patients without a pancreas can control their blood sugar levels as effectively as type 1 diabetes patients using insulin replacement. The study's findings suggest that removing the entire pancreas is reasonably safe and effective for diabetes management.
Researchers at Mount Sinai School of Medicine have identified the genetic cause of Winchester syndrome, a rare and fatal bone disease, by studying frozen skin cells taken from a child in 1969. The MT1-MMP gene mutation leads to severe arthritis and osteoporosis, rendering patients incapable of movement without assistance.
A recent study published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry found that many popular 'microgreens' have more vitamins and healthful nutrients than their fully grown counterparts. The research analyzed 25 varieties of microgreens, revealing wide variations in nutrient levels among the plants tested.
Astronomers using ALMA detected glycolaldehyde, a simple form of sugar, in the gas surrounding a young binary star. This discovery suggests that the building blocks of life existed in this system at the time of planet formation.
Research suggests that loss of daily rhythms can cause obesity, as our bodies struggle to stay in tune with irregular meal, sleep, and work schedules. Disrupted circadian desynchrony affects brain systems regulating metabolism, increasing the risk of developing obesity and diabetes.
Researchers have observed glycolaldehyde molecules, a simple form of sugar, in the gas surrounding a young star. This discovery suggests that the building blocks of life were already present during planet formation. The finding was made using the Atacama Large Millimeter Array (ALMA) telescope and provides insights into the possibility...
Standard head movements during MRI scanner exposure temporarily lower concentration and visuospatial awareness, particularly in tasks requiring high working memory. This may have implications for surgeons and other healthcare staff.
A GW professor is studying the correlation between genetics and susceptibility to drug abuse. He will use genomics expertise to investigate morphine addiction in mouse models, focusing on changes in brain genes that may lead to addiction.
Researchers from Drexel University and The University of Pennsylvania are exploring ways to improve the efficiency, durability, and affordability of dye-sensitized solar panels. They aim to streamline electron transfer processes using carbon nanotubes and replace liquid electrolytes with more effective polymers.
Researchers have developed autonomous self-assembling electronic microreagents to jointly direct complex chemical reactions and analyses in solutions. The project MICREAgents will create programmable microscale electronic chemistry, containing electronic circuits on 3D microchips called lablets.
Researchers credit adaptability and flexibility in Sri Lanka's malaria control program with its success in reducing cases by 99.9% since 1999. The program adapted to protect displaced populations and distributed long-lasting insecticide-treated nets, sustaining key prevention and surveillance activities.
A University of Missouri researcher found that African-American males are the most likely to lose state lottery-funded scholarships with academic stipulations. The study suggests that colleges and universities should target minority students and provide institutional support to promote higher retention rates.
A steady job is associated with improved medication adherence and reduced risk of non-adherence among working-age diabetics. Lack of employment increases stress, financial strain, and access barriers, leading to lower adherence rates.
Researchers found that climate change could disrupt the interactions between ruddy turnstone shorebirds and horseshoe crabs at Delaware Bay, leading to increased avian influenza infection rates. This could drive up the infection rate in resident ducks, potentially spreading novel subtypes among North American wild bird populations.
Scientists have discovered a new antibacterial coating for sutures that is nearly 1,000 times more effective than the most widely used commercial coating. The coating, designed from naturally occurring antimicrobial peptides, kills a wide range of bacteria and has a low chance of causing resistance.
Scientists warn that the famous Swedish warship Vasa is deteriorating due to significant loss of strength in its wooden hull. The study found that the ship's wooden structure weakened by up to 80 percent, potentially threatening its preservation for future generations.
New guidelines set minimum acceptable success rates for catheter ablation of atrial fibrillation, with 50% success rate expected at 12 months. Long-term outcome data shows only 40-50% of patients remain free of recurrent AF after 5 years.
Researchers at the University of Houston are exploring how aging kidneys affect sodium balance and blood pressure, potentially leading to new therapeutic targets for hypertension. Exercise training builds up strong anti-inflammatory environments, improving kidney functions during aging.
Researchers identified a mutation in the DMRT3 gene, crucial for ambling gaits, pacing and high-speed trotting in horses. In mice, this gene reveals fundamental knowledge about neural circuits controlling leg movements.
Historical analysis reveals the Paralympic movement's problematic roots in 19th-century freak shows, where disability was objectified and exploited. Researcher Danielle Peers argues that the movement prioritizes able-bodied leaders over athletes' contributions, perpetuating paternalism and erasure.
A new study published in JAMA found that noninvasive CT scanning technology combined with fractional flow reserve can improve diagnostic accuracy for heart disease. The DeFACTO study involved 252 patients from 17 centers worldwide, showing improved detection of coronary artery disease using this approach.
A team of researchers recovered sediment cores from the Pacific Ocean, revealing fluctuations in the carbonate compensation depth over millions of years. The findings suggest that climate development and carbon cycle interactions were more complex than previously thought.
The American Society of Agronomy (ASA), Crop Science Society of America (CSSA), and Soil Science Society of America (SSSA) have presented 2012 scholarships and fellowships to support undergraduate students in agriculture, including the Hank Beachell Future Leader Scholarship and the J. Fielding Reed Scholarship.
A rare but deadly infection, similar to malaria in humans, was discovered among a group of horses at the King Ranch in Texas. WSU/USDA scientist Don Knowles developed a reliable diagnostic test and treatment to kill the parasites, containing the outbreak and identifying a new tick species responsible for its spread.
A multicenter study found that taking aspirin is associated with a lower risk of death from prostate cancer, especially in high-risk disease. The study analyzed data from almost 6,000 men with prostate cancer treated with surgery or radiotherapy, and the results showed a significant reduction in mortality rates and cancer recurrence.
A research team led by Gus Cothran found a gene, DMRT3, that affects horse gait and movement. The study's findings have implications for horse breeding and racing, potentially leading to improved performance in harness-racing horses.
A study by Cornell Food & Brand Lab found that softening fast-food restaurant lighting and music reduces calorie intake by 18% and increases customer satisfaction. Diners ate 175 fewer calories and rated the food as more enjoyable in a softer environment.
Hayabusa 2 aims to collect samples from the asteroid's surface, which may preserve water and amino acids. The mission hopes to provide clearer insight into the early days of the solar system than previous meteorite samples.
Researchers from Northeastern University used Twitter data to analyze voting patterns in American Idol, predicting the outcome of votes with high accuracy. The study also identified geographical influences on voting patterns, suggesting that a different outcome might have occurred if voting had been open to international fans.
Researchers have identified Demodex mites as the primary carriers of bacteria that trigger rosacea. The bacteria produce molecules provoking an immune reaction in patients, leading to tissue degradation and inflammation.
A national survey of over 1,000 registered nurses reveals that resistance from nursing leaders and organizational cultures prevent implementation of evidence-based practices. Respondents report a lack of education, access to information, and support as major barriers to adopting these practices.
Researchers found that closing the yield gap on underperforming lands could boost production significantly, while also reducing the environmental impact of agriculture. The study suggests that more strategic use of fertilizer and water could lead to substantial gains in crop production and reduced adverse environmental impacts.
Galectin-3 protein has been linked to an increased risk of heart failure and death in older adults, according to a new study. The study found that individuals with high levels of galectin-3 were more likely to experience heart failure, highlighting the potential for measuring blood levels as an early warning sign.
The analysis revealed significant gradients in arrhythmia treatment between Western European countries and Eastern European and North African countries. Training and adherence to guidelines are crucial to addressing healthcare inequalities, as highlighted by the European Society of Cardiology.
Researchers in Adelaide and Italy are working on projects to improve the quality of pasta by increasing dietary fiber and starch levels. The goal is to create 'super spaghetti' that offers potential health benefits, such as reducing heart disease risk or colorectal cancer risk.
UCF researchers have made a breakthrough in nanotechnology by developing nanoclusters that can diffuse high-energy laser beams. These tiny clusters of gold particles have the potential to protect pilots and sensitive equipment from destructive lasers, providing a new level of safety for these applications.
The Crop Science Society of America (CSSA) presented awards to 11 individuals for their outstanding contributions to the field of crop science. The awards recognize achievements in various areas of crop research and education.
A study by the University of Bonn found that a genetic variation on the CHRNA4 gene is associated with internet addiction. This variation occurs more frequently in women and may be related to social media use. The researchers hope their findings will lead to better therapies for online addiction.
The Soil Science Society of America announced its 2012 award recipients, honoring their research and service in the field. The awards recognize individuals who have made significant contributions to soil science, including Susan Brantley, Daniel Hillel, Pedro Sanchez, and Johannes Lehmann.
A new study reveals that strong communication between the left and right hemispheres of the brain predicts math performance. The research suggests a possible route to aiding individuals with dyscalculia by enhancing parietal connectivity.
A Phase I/II trial tests the safety and efficacy of PR610 in patients with advanced cancer. The study aims to deliver a targeted approach, activating the compound in tissues with low oxygen levels characteristic of many cancers.
A study published in the Journal of Thoracic Oncology found that patients with low thymidylate synthase (TS) levels and high fibroblast growth factor stimulator (FPGS) levels respond better to pemetrexed treatment. This combination predicts longer survival durations.
The American Society of Agronomy has recognized outstanding professionals with various awards. Jerome H. Cherney, Thomas A. Doerge, and David A. Zuberer were honored for their contributions to agronomic education, industry, and research.
The European Society of Cardiology is tackling the issue of underused implantable cardiac devices, particularly ICDs, due to financial constraints. The initiative aims to raise awareness about their importance and reduce sudden cardiac death rates in countries like Ukraine and Germany.
Researchers developed a new questionnaire to assess preschoolers' behavior, enabling early identification and treatment of emerging mental health problems. The study found that temper tantrums are not frequent among young children, occurring less than 10% of the time.
A genetic screen of roundworms identified two proteins required for the expansion of lipid droplets, which are associated with obesity and health hazards. The study reveals an anatomical link between these proteins and suggests that they act synergistically to allow cells to store more fat and expand lipid droplet size.
Scientists at Scripps Institution of Oceanography discovered how fault zones weaken in select locations after an earthquake tipping point, creating 'melt welts'. These regions can lead to runaway slip and massive earthquakes. The study addresses the 'low heat flow paradox' and may improve earthquake prediction models.
A new study suggests that beneath Antarctica's ice sheet lies a massive potential methane reservoir, with estimates suggesting up to 400 billion tonnes of carbon. Microorganisms in sub-ice environments have been found to metabolize organic carbon into methane gas, which could be released during future ice-sheet collapse.
The iFAB Foundry aims to revolutionize the design and building process for complex defense systems by shortening development time by a factor of five. The project will provide near-instantaneous manufacturability feedback to designers, enabling flexible and programmable distributed production.
Research published in PLOS ONE found that young children consider merit when sharing resources, taking into account the amount of work they contribute and their partner's contribution level. However, a self-serving bias was also observed, with few children giving away more than half of the reward even when their partner had worked more.
Researchers successfully probed the effects of light on matter at the atomic scale by mixing x-ray and optical light waves. This technique allows them to directly measure how light manipulates chemical bonds in materials, enabling new insights into light-matter interactions.
Research in southern Indian Ocean found increased bioluminescence correlates with higher foraging intensity in deep-sea predators, indicating that bioluminescence likely provides seals with valuable indications of prey occurrence. The study monitored diving behavior and light detector data from four female southern elephant seals.
The analysis of Sinocalliopteryx gigas' abdominal contents suggests that these dinosaurs were adept stealth hunters capable of tackling prey over a third their size. The study also found evidence of eating bird-like dinosaurs and primitive birds, providing new insights into their hunting behavior.
Kansas State University professor Matthias Kling has received a $750,000 award to study electron dynamics in nanostructures with strong laser fields. His research could lead to speeding up electrons by a factor of 100,000, improving communication technology.
A study by University of Rhode Island oceanographers and colleagues found drastically lower values for total biomass in marine sediments, reducing the estimated mass of all life on Earth by about one-third. The researchers collected sediment cores from open-ocean areas to obtain more accurate data.
A CNIO team has created a transgenic mouse model that simulates aplastic anaemia in humans. The model shows the link between telomere impairment and bone marrow failure.
A recent study published in Icarus proposes a new perspective on the Moon's formation, suggesting a 'hit-and-run' Giant Impact scenario that resolves the Lunar Paradox. The research explores alternative collision geometries and impact velocities, which could provide a solution to the paradox and shed light on the Moon's origins.
Researchers have identified how immature immune cells respond to the influenza virus and traced the path to generate antibodies that can neutralize a wide range of strains. This understanding could aid in designing a universal flu vaccine that provides protection against most or all influenza virus strains.
The US performs worst on potentially preventable death rates compared to France, Germany, and the UK, with slower progress in improving healthcare. Despite higher healthcare spending, the US has made less progress in reducing preventable deaths among men and women under 65.
The Aspirin-clopidogrel trial found that the combination did not offer significant benefits for stroke prevention in patients with lacunar strokes. Instead, it increased the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding. Meanwhile, overall stroke risk has decreased by more than three-fold over the past decade.
Tropical Storm Kirk is strengthening due to powerful thunderstorms and will likely turn into a hurricane over the weekend, according to NASA infrared imagery.
Hurricane Isaac made two landfalls in southeastern Louisiana, causing widespread flooding due to its slow movement and intense energy from warm Gulf waters. The storm also brought isolated tornadoes as it moved inland, posing a significant threat to the region.
Researchers created digital organisms in Avida to study mate attraction, finding that even costless displays evolved as indicators of genetic quality. This challenges traditional theories on ornamental displays serving as signals for virility.
Tropical Storm Bolaven made landfall on Aug. 28, moving quickly over land while transitioning into an ex-tropical storm. NASA's Terra satellite captured the remnants of Bolaven mostly centered over eastern China.
A new study provides unprecedented detail on the history of the carbonate compensation depth (CCD) in the Pacific Ocean over the past 55 million years. The CCD, which fluctuates with climate change, reveals five intervals of fluctuation during the 'greenhouse' world and at least four major excursions in the last 20 million years.
A new 'traffic light' test can diagnose liver fibrosis and cirrhosis in high-risk populations more easily than current methods. The test provides a color-coded system, with red indicating scarring, green indicating no cirrhosis, and amber indicating a 50:50 chance of scarring.
A European registry study found that TAVI valves were mainly used on patients over 80 years old with comorbidities, resulting in a high risk of complications and mortality. The study also showed significant differences in procedural approaches and post-procedure care across countries.
A new study finds that microorganisms may convert old organic matter to methane under oxygen-deprived conditions in sedimentary basins beneath the Antarctic Ice Sheet. This could lead to significant methane release if the ice sheet shrinks, exacerbating global climate change.
A nationwide Finnish study found that women who had three or more induced abortions before a first birth have a higher risk of delivering a baby prematurely and with low birth weight. The risk increases with each additional abortion, but the overall increase is small.
Next-generation diagnostic tests can identify specific diseases and determine if chemotherapy is working, enabling doctors to make better treatment decisions. These tests could reduce unnecessary procedures, prescriptions, and hospital stays, ultimately saving the US healthcare system billions of dollars annually.
Coral scientists have developed a simplified method for measuring coral reef resilience, prioritizing heat-resistant coral species and background temperature variability. The new model offers a cost-effective tool for conservation planning, but further research is needed to evaluate its priority and types of corals required.
Researchers used an experimental cancer drug to treat abnormal brain cell growth in mice with neurofibromatosis 1. The study showed that early treatment can prevent learning disabilities in these children by promoting normal neural stem cell development.
The article highlights advancements in biomass characterization technology to overcome recalcitrance issues in lignocellulosic biomass. Researchers share their work and perspectives on improving methods for analyzing biomass chemistry, structure, and interaction.
A study suggests that influenza can be transmitted before symptoms appear in ferrets, a model commonly used for flu research. The findings have significant implications for pandemic planning strategies and the control of epidemics.
A $1.2 million grant will support a program providing HPV vaccine to hundreds of low-income women at UTMB's healthcare services, addressing barriers such as lack of awareness and limited access. The initiative aims to increase vaccination rates among Hispanic women at high risk for cervical cancer.
Researchers at University of Missouri have developed a new cancer drug with exceptional potency, outperforming current treatments by 10 times. The carborane-based drug efficiently targets energy production in cancer cells, minimizing side effects and increasing therapy effectiveness.
Researchers found evidence that a feathered, but flightless dinosaur, Sinocalliopteryx, was able to snag and consume small flying dinosaurs. The fossilized remains of three Confuciusornis were found in the belly of Sinocalliopteryx, revealing its voracious eating habits.
Researchers created a synthetic protein that binds to degraded collagen, which is often damaged by disease. This protein can detect cancerous cells, arthritis, and other diseases in the body. The technique may lead to new diagnostic imaging technology and treatment options.