A collaborative study found that earthquakes and tsunamis can revive habitats and bring back species thought extinct, while also exacerbating coastal erosion. The research highlights the importance of preserving sandy beaches as barriers against sea level rise and conservation.
Recent research suggests that plant-derived biofuels could meet 30% of the global demand for liquid transportation fuels without affecting food production. Scientists have identified non-edible plants as a promising area of research to produce biofuels sustainably.
Researchers from the University of Pennsylvania report that genetically modified T cells remain healthy up to 11 years after initial therapy in a decade-long study of HIV patients. The approach provides a framework for gene therapy as a powerful weapon in treating HIV, cancer, and other diseases.
Researchers at University of Alberta identify new coelacanth fossil, Rebellatrix, which challenges theory of evolutionary stagnation. Found in British Columbia, the 240-million-year-old species had a forked tail, indicating it was a fast-moving predator.
Researchers have created microsubmarines that can collect and transport oil droplets from contaminated waters, potentially helping to clean up oil spills. These tiny machines use a special surface coating to absorb oils and are powered by ultrafast movement.
A new study suggests that infants start learning about race from birth, but their ability to recognize faces and emotions from other races declines at around 9 months. This decline in ability is thought to be a result of the infant's brain processing more information from familiar groups, such as family members.
A hyperparasitic fungus has been found to effectively combat the zombie-ant fungus, limiting its spread and survival. The research model shows that only about 6.5% of spore-producing organs were viable, suggesting a smaller threat to ant colonies.
Research suggests a connection between blood sugar levels and mental health in diabetics, potentially impacting quality of life. Studies using continuous glucose monitoring data indicate that poor glycemic control may lead to negative moods and lower overall well-being.
The Visio.M project aims to develop electric cars that are safe, inexpensive, and efficient. Researchers have overcome significant technological hurdles to create a vehicle with a power of 15 kilowatts and a maximum curb weight of 400 kg.
A series of experiments is assessing the potential vulnerability of critical structural components in aging steel bridges. Researchers are discovering how materials, connection details, and designs react to IEDs, kinetic impact, intense fires, and other accidents.
Researchers found two groups of consumers with distinct reactions to good and bad experiences: pleasure-seekers and pain-avoiders. Pain-avoiders exhibit a conservative bias, feeling less joy in positive experiences.
A new randomized controlled trial found that memantine, a commonly prescribed medication for Alzheimer's disease, is no more effective in reducing significant agitation than a placebo. The study suggested improvements in cognitive functioning and neuropsychiatric symptoms, but failed to provide relief from severe agitation.
Data from UD researchers in Lewes, Del., shows a 60% decrease in precipitation acidity since the 1990s, a significant improvement attributed to pollution controls. However, fish populations and vegetation have been slow to respond, highlighting the need for continued monitoring.
The IOM report recommends the FDA implement a single, comprehensive Benefit and Risk Assessment and Management Plan (BRAMP) to track drugs' side effects. Postmarket studies will be conducted when necessary to inform regulatory decisions, with an emphasis on protecting research participants.
A new study found that each step of the marine food chain is controlled by the trophic level below it, with prey distribution playing a crucial role. The research reveals that the spatial pattern of resources, or patchiness, is more important than the overall abundance of food.
A new study suggests that consuming omega-3 fatty acids from foods like fish and nuts can lower blood beta-amyloid levels, a protein linked to Alzheimer's disease. The study found a strong association between increased omega-3 intake and reduced plasma beta-amyloid levels.
A new DNA-based chemical sensor has been developed, capable of discriminating between very similar molecules, even at low concentrations. The system uses carbon nanotubes and fine-tuned DNA strands to produce a measurable electrical signal when exposed to target chemicals.
Australian researchers advocate for open source software principles to be applied to clinical trials, aiming to reduce biases and self-interest. They propose that clinical trial data could be re-analyzed and pooled, leading to more efficient and trustworthy evidence for pressing health problems.
A new study from the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine confirms that COX-2 inhibitors, such as Vioxx and Celebrex, increase cardiovascular risk by disrupting prostacyclin production. This disruption leads to hardening of the arteries and amplifies the effects of COX-2 inhibition on the cardiovascular system.
Researchers build 'spaghetti models' of cancer progression using mathematical models, predicting tumor growth, response to treatments, and risk of recurrence. This approach combines clinical imaging with biological experiments and mathematical modeling to develop patient-specific medicine.
Researchers have discovered a new, non-invasive diagnostic method for Alzheimer's disease (AD) using advanced brain imaging technology. The technique analyzes specific brain chemical changes in the hippocampal region of the brain, providing a signature of early AD stages.
Two Stanford University professors propose a new approach to teaching that replaces traditional lectures with short online videos, allowing students to learn at their own pace. The flipped-classroom model has shown promising results in improving student reviews and class attendance.
Researchers created a virtual copy of patient-specific blood to simulate blood clotting and test the effectiveness of drugs like aspirin. The simulations predicted accurate responses to drugs in individual donors, identifying potential genetic mutations.
Scientists at Ohio State University found that excessive beta-carotene consumption can lead to the production of anti-vitamin A molecules, disrupting metabolism and immune function. This paradoxical effect may explain a decades-old clinical trial's unexpected outcome where beta-carotene supplementation increased lung cancer risk.
A study from the University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center found that Accelerated Partial Breast Irradiation (APBI) is associated with a higher risk of later mastectomy, increased radiation-related toxicities and post-operative complications compared to traditional whole breast irradiation.
The America Invents Act strengthens the US patent system, providing stronger intellectual property protection for biotechnology-based businesses. This enhancement is expected to drive job growth throughout the national economy by improving patent quality and efficiency.
Researchers at Georgia Tech develop Nano-photonic Composite Scintillation Detector to enhance radiation detection effectiveness and reduce cost. The detector combines rare-earth elements with nanotechnology techniques for improved sensitivity, accuracy, and robustness.
Karen Tomko, a senior researcher at the Ohio Supercomputer Center, has been designated a Campus Champion to empower researchers and educators in advancing scientific discovery through national high performance computing opportunities and resources. The XSEDE designation will provide direct access to XSEDE resources and support for rese...
A new study found that information technology is a fundamental component of 176 health programs in low- and middle-income countries. Technology is being used to extend geographical access, facilitate communications between health workers and patients, and improve data management.
A major new study published in The Lancet found that all babies should be offered screening for heart defects at birth, with pulse oximetry showing high accuracy and effectiveness in detecting the condition. The research included data on close to 230,000 babies and showed that pulse oximetry picked up over three-quarters of heart defects.
A special issue of the Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists examines the debate over low-dose radiation risk, focusing on areas of agreement and disagreement. The issue includes essays from top experts in their fields, exploring topics such as the linear non-threshold theory (LNT) and its implications for policy.
A study in Cell Metabolism resolves controversy over resveratrol's life-extending effects by demonstrating that the ingredient's benefits require the SIRT1 gene. The research also clarifies resveratrol's dose-dependent action on SIRT1 and other proteins.
Scientists investigate the complex relationships between lipids and inflammation in insulin resistance, as well as the role of omega 3 fatty acids and a gene called GPR120 in fighting inflammation. Elevated levels of a protein called PGC-1alpha may delay muscle destruction in ALS patients
A new human study suggests that dopamine levels in the brain play a crucial role in determining how hard people work. Individuals with higher dopamine activity in certain areas showed greater motivation and effort, while those with increased dopamine in other areas were less likely to exert effort.
A study examining registered clinical trials found that many small, single-center trials were submitted between 2007-2010, leading to heterogeneity in methodological approaches. The majority of trials had an anticipated enrollment of 1,000 or fewer participants, and only 44% were funded by industry.
A study found that lung procedure patients who watched a 30-minute preparation video reported less anxiety, physical pain, and higher satisfaction with their operative experience. The video also helped patients prepare for post-operative care and quit smoking.
A Vanderbilt University study found that individual differences in dopamine levels in specific brain areas affect motivation and willingness to work for rewards. The research provides new insights into the role of dopamine in human behavior and may have implications for treating mental illnesses like depression and schizophrenia.
Researchers discovered a shorter half-life of nucleus samarium-146, shrinking the assessed chronology of events in the early solar system to a shorter time span. This new value is consistent with recent dating made on a lunar rock and other chronometers.
A new study examining sleep and body mass index (BMI) in twins found that sleeping more than nine hours a night suppresses genetic influences on body weight. Genetic influences accounted for 70% of BMI differences in short sleepers, while extended sleep reduced these factors.
A recent analysis of 23,359 patients found that young CT scan recipients are more likely to die from their underlying disease than develop radiation-induced cancer. The study revealed a significantly lower risk of cancer induced by CT scans compared to the risk of dying from the disease.
The CATT study found that Avastin and Lucentis were similarly effective in maintaining vision for AMD patients, with two-thirds of patients retaining 20/40 or better vision after two years. However, the study highlights the need for further research on dry form AMD and a stronger national commitment to funding eye research.
Researchers at UC Davis Health System demonstrated the safety and efficacy of transplanting anti-HIV stem cells into mice, replicating a functioning human immune system. The technique protects and expands HIV-resistant immune cells, maintaining normal CD4 levels.
A new study suggests fish oil capsules can reduce AV graft clotting and improve hemodialysis patient outcomes. Patients taking fish oil experienced lower rates of graft failure, cardiovascular events, and blood pressure.
A University of Michigan study finds a significant correlation between world GDP and CO2 concentrations, highlighting the need for drastic changes in economic habits to combat global warming. The research suggests that carbon taxes could be an effective solution to reduce emissions and stabilize the climate.
A study published in JAMA found that fish oil supplementation did not decrease graft patency but reduced thrombosis rates and clinical interventions. The study showed a significant reduction in thrombosis events and radiological interventions in patients receiving fish oil, but no difference in graft loss.
A Vanderbilt study found that only 7% of Tennessee hospitals have a hand specialist on call 24/7 to treat common injuries such as wrist and finger trauma. Patients from surrounding states travel long distances for treatment and follow-up care.
A national study found that highly educated women are reversing a trend of childlessness and having more children. The research suggests that fertility treatments have played a role, but it's not the only factor contributing to the increase in fertility among older, highly educated women.
Researchers determined a threshold vitamin D blood level of 20 ng/milliliter to lower risk of heart attacks, hip fractures, cancer diagnoses, and deaths in older adults. Seasonal variations in levels were also observed, suggesting more nuanced approach to evaluating health risks.
A recent study published in PLOS Biology reveals that touch sensitivity is hereditary and linked to genetic mechanisms that support hearing. The research found a strong correlation between touch and hearing acuity in healthy human populations, suggesting that a single mutation may impair both senses.
New research published in PLOS Medicine reveals a strong link between body mass index (BMI) and ischemic heart disease (IHD) risk. A significant increase in BMI was found to elevate the risk of developing IHD by 50% on average, highlighting the importance of addressing obesity levels in reducing cardiovascular risk.
The Ben & Catherine Ivy Foundation funds a $45,000 pilot internship program at TGen to provide hands-on biomedical research experience for high school and undergraduate students. The program aims to inspire future leaders in the field of neuroscience and brain tumor research.
A new study found that excessive daytime sleepiness in children is a significant contributor to learning, attention and behavioral problems, despite adequate nighttime sleep. Obesity, symptoms of inattention, depression and anxiety, asthma, and parent-reported trouble falling asleep are all linked to EDS.
A scheme supporting midwives in rural Nigeria has improved maternal, newborn, and child health outcomes by redistributing healthcare workers. The Midwife Service Scheme helps address health inequities between urban and rural areas, offering a potential model for low-income countries.
A study found that children with juvenile idiopathic arthritis have a higher risk of hospitalized bacterial infections than children without the condition. High-dose steroids significantly increased this risk, while methotrexate and tumor necrosis factor inhibitors did not.
Mixing herbal supplements with medications can lead to increased risk of bleeding, decreased blood sugar, hormonal effects, and elevated blood pressure. Clinicians must educate their patients about these risks and interactio ns.
Researchers have gained a better understanding of how precise memories are formed through the study of inhibitory neurons. The discovery sheds light on the neurobiological basis of memory problems in neurodegenerative disorders like Alzheimer's disease, and could potentially lead to new treatments.
Researchers have discovered that a garlic-derived compound is 100 times more effective at killing the Campylobacter bacterium than two popular antibiotics. This breakthrough could lead to new treatments for raw and processed meats, as well as food preparation surfaces.
A study published in Cancer Research found that weight loss of at least 5% reduced markers of inflammation in postmenopausal women. This reduction was observed even when exercise alone was not sufficient to decrease inflammation markers.
A new virtual reality study and book series launched by UC Davis researcher Peter Mundy aim to improve educational outcomes for children with autism. The study will track social attention and its relation to academic achievement among schoolchildren with autism, while the book provides evidence-based approaches for teachers.
Researchers discovered a link between ACE inhibitors and ARBs and lower PTSD symptom scores in patients taking these medications. The findings suggest that these blood pressure medications could be valuable tools for treating or preventing post-traumatic stress disorder.