A group of researchers at the University of California, Riverside developed a technique to lower hot spots in GaN transistors by introducing graphene multilayers, increasing device lifetime by a factor of 10. The new approach represents a transformative change in thermal management.
A new study reveals a 100-fold surge in small plastic debris in the North Pacific Ocean Subtropical Gyre, altering marine habitats and changing natural ecosystems. The influx of plastic has led to an increase in sea skater egg densities, potentially affecting animals across the food web.
Researchers developed a new class of compounds that block malaria transmission from humans to mosquitoes by inhibiting bumped kinase I. This approach represents a new strategy for controlling malaria spread. The study's preclinical data in mice suggests the inhibitors are safe and well-tolerated.
Researchers analyzed sedimentary and geochemical records from Rantin Lake to reconstruct past water-level changes and understand the timing and magnitude of prehistoric climate events. The study found that rapid climate change events occurred during the Holocene, with a notable 'megadrought' in the early period.
Dr. Blomster's findings reveal the Mixteca Alta region of Oaxaca was part of the ballgame iconography and ideology, dating back to the Early Horizon period. The discovery highlights the active participation of ancient Mixtec societies in Mesoamerican civilization.
A recent study in PLOS Medicine challenges the widely-held view that foreign aid for health displaces government funds in recipient countries. Experts Rajaie Batniji and Eran Bendavid re-analysed data to find no straightforward negative relationship between government spending on health and foreign aid for health.
A new study by the American Psychological Association found that young college men view using prescription stimulants as more necessary for academic success than using steroids. The research compared perceptions of off-label prescription drug use with those of steroid performance enhancers and discovered that students considered Addera...
A study published in JAMA found that older women with atrial fibrillation have a significantly higher risk of stroke compared to men, even when taking anticoagulant medication. The research suggests that current stroke prevention therapy may not be sufficient for these patients, highlighting the need for targeted treatment strategies.
Scientists at the University of Leeds are developing more efficient biofuel cells that can harness light and hydrogen gas to create energy. The new technology has the potential to be used indefinitely, making it a promising alternative to traditional batteries.
Researchers have discovered a new class of malaria transmission-blocking compounds that work by inhibiting bumped kinase I, blocking the parasite's infectious stage. Genetic variation is also linked to high blood pressure, with researchers finding that inhibiting renin pathway activity can return blood pressure to normal levels.
A new computer model developed at NC State University predicts the environmental impact of forest land-use decisions, considering factors such as plant growth and water cycles. The DRAINMOD-FOREST model will help policy makers and forest managers make informed decisions to minimize environmental harm while maintaining forest productivity.
A systematic review of data from 35 years found that intrauterine devices (IUDs) have a failure rate of less than one per thousand and are more effective than the morning after pill. IUDs also provide long-term protection against unwanted pregnancy, making them a recommended option for emergency contraception.
Researchers discovered that a negative word can prevent access to a native language system, highlighting the brain's ability to block information from conscious thought. This finding breaks new ground in understanding the interaction between emotion and thought in the brain.
Dr. Yael Mosse will be honored with the first James B. Nachman ASCO Junior Faculty Award in Pediatric Oncology at the ASCO Annual Meeting. Her groundbreaking research on neuroblastoma has led to major advances in treatment, including a national clinical trial of a new drug treatment.
A new study calculates that groundwater pumping will cause a global sea level rise of about 0.8 millimeters per year by 2050, outweighing the effect of dams. Groundwater depletion rates are projected to increase further, contributing significantly to sea level rise.
A new study found that heart patients with a distressed personality type (Type D) reported worse health after having an implanted internal defibrillator. Those who received a shock from their device within the first year scored themselves up to 30 points lower than others, indicating poorer overall health and mental well-being.
The hospital will expand its Transition Home Plus Program, training caregivers and reducing emergency room visits and hospital readmissions. The program is expected to save an estimated $3.7 million over three years.
A Wayne State University researcher is investigating the influences of conscientiousness-related personality traits, cognitive ability, and social investment on patterns of excessive alcohol use over time. The study aims to develop interventions that can help foster maturation by increasing normative social investment.
Despite federal recommendations for four hours of physical activity per week, Americans spend only about two hours engaging in sports and fitness activities. The most prevalent activity is dedicated walking, with teenagers spending seven times more time playing basketball than older adults.
A new study by UC Irvine finds significant racial and socioeconomic disparities in ovarian cancer care and survival rates. Poor women and those without insurance face significantly lower survival rates compared to their white and affluent counterparts.
Researchers at Auburn University have discovered a new species of trapdoor spider, named Myrmekiaphila tigris, in the heart of the city. The spider's unique features were confirmed through DNA analysis and physical examination, highlighting the biodiversity still unknown to scientists.
A study using data from over 1 million adults found that a newer risk prediction equation classified more individuals as having chronic kidney disease and accurately predicted death and end-stage renal disease. The CKD-EPI equation outperformed the MDRD Study equation in categorizing risk, especially at higher GFR levels.
The Changes Toolkit helps palliative care patients and their care providers navigate physical, emotional, and relationship changes with a self-administered interactive resource. The toolkit provides a foundation for conversations about health, goals of care, and living wills, aiming to ensure better outcomes for patients and families.
The NDCX-II accelerator is a compact machine designed to produce powerful pulses of ion beams that can accelerate heavy-ion fusion energy production. Research with NDCX-II aims to advance the acceleration, compression, and focusing of intense ion beams.
A Cornell University scientist and designer from Africa have developed a fashionable hooded bodysuit embedded with insecticides to ward off mosquitoes infected with malaria. The garment, made with metal organic framework molecules, can provide extra protection throughout the day and last longer than traditional repellents.
A review and meta-analysis of previous studies found that probiotic consumption is associated with a reduced risk of antibiotic-associated diarrhea. The study analyzed 82 randomized controlled trials involving 11,811 participants, finding a 42% lower risk of developing diarrhea with probiotic use.
Researchers found that parents with a firm but fair style tend to have children with positive behavior, while those with overly permissive or authoritarian styles are associated with negative behavior. Effective parenting involves providing structure and routines in a loving and clear way.
Researchers at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center have identified a flavonoid compound called rutin as a potential therapeutic agent to prevent the formation of blood clots. Rutin was shown to inhibit thrombosis in an animal model, offering a novel strategy for preventing stroke and heart attack.
A recent study published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute found that physical activity is associated with reduced mortality in breast and colon cancer patients. The research suggests that exercise may provide benefits such as improved insulin levels, reduced inflammation, and enhanced immunity for cancer survivors.
The 'From Clinic to Community' project aims to improve health outcomes for at-risk populations in Southeastern US counties. It combines modern technology with community-based healthcare professionals to address the triple aim of better outcomes, better care, and lower cost.
Researchers used next-generation sequencing to identify genetic causes of developmental delays and congenital abnormalities in seven out of twelve patients. The study found that the technology can provide a diagnosis about half of the time, motivating its use for patients with unknown genetic conditions.
A Kansas State University researcher identified eight themes that characterize effective internships, including the importance of commitment, community and communication. Students valued feeling welcome and part of the organization, while employers sought to develop competencies, generate capital and build confidence.
A study by Miriam Hospital found that women experiencing multiple forms of violence, including community and childhood maltreatment, are more likely to take significant sexual risks. The research highlights the need for clinicians to consider the overlap between violence and sexual risk-taking in order to impact health consequences.
A new study found that longer commutes by automobile are associated with decreased cardiorespiratory fitness, increased weight, and other indicators of metabolic risk. Commuting distances greater than 10 miles were linked to high blood pressure.
A study by Keith Hawton and colleagues found a significant reduction in co-proxamol-related poisonings after its UK withdrawal in 2005. Deaths involving other analgesics remained stable despite increased prescribing, suggesting the removal of co-proxamol had major benefits on suicide rates.
Patients with unipolar Major Depressive Disorder achieved significant improvements in depression symptoms and quality of life after five weeks of NeuroStar TMS therapy. The treatment resulted in a 30.5% increase in patients reporting no problems with performing usual activities.
Researchers have developed a potent new drug called Lys05 that kills tumor cells in mouse models by clogging their recycling system. This approach has shown promise as a single-agent anti-tumor therapy with minimal toxicity to healthy cells.
A new study by the University of Minnesota researchers found that APHIS failed to recognize environmental impacts and made legal errors in regulating genetically engineered crops. The agency's regulatory decisions have faced criticism, leading to litigation delays in the development of new GE crops.
A study of 2,588 Finnish schizophrenic patients found that antidepressive treatment reduced mortality risk by 43%, whereas bensodiazepine use increased the risk of early death and suicide by 91%. The researchers also found no association between taking multiple antipsychotics and increased mortality.
Researchers from the University of Otago have provided radiocarbon dates for unusual jar and log coffin interments in southern Cambodia's Cardamom Mountains. The findings reveal that the enigmatic burial rituals were practiced from at least 1395AD to 1650AD, coinciding with the decline and fall of the powerful Kingdom of Angkor.
The Office of Naval Research is developing a solid-state laser weapon prototype with multi-mission capabilities. The program aims to provide Sailors with a non-lethal defense against small boat threats and aerial targets.
Gene Signal's aganirsen shows promise in treating wet age-related macular degeneration and ischemic retinopathy by inhibiting neovascular growth. Clinical studies are scheduled to begin during the second quarter of 2012.
Positive results from animal models and initial clinical trial results show promise for retinal gene therapy to treat inherited diseases. Researchers have developed efficient and safe viral delivery systems to introduce therapeutic genes into photoreceptor cells.
Researchers found that the 2009 H1N1 pandemic vaccine triggers antibodies protecting against many influenza viruses, including deadly avian H5N1 strain. This discovery could lead to universal flu vaccines eliminating seasonal vaccination needs.
Research funded by the Wellcome Trust suggests that prosthetic lower limbs and robots' legs could be made more efficient by making them less human-like. The study found that people walking normally, women in high heels, and ostriches produce similar forces on the ground due to their unique gait patterns.
A new study published in JAMA found that the CKD-EPI equation for calculating GFR is a more accurate predictor of kidney disease risk compared to the MDRD Study equation. The study suggests that switching to the CKD-EPI equation could lead to better assessment of patient future risk and improved treatment of kidney disease.
Researchers used lithography to create achiral particles that spontaneously formed chiral super-structures with distinct orientations. Entropy played a key role in the emergence of chirality, contradicting traditional views on disorder and order. The discovery sheds new light on the physical origins of molecular handedness.
Customers are using laptops, phones, and coffee cups to shield themselves from others in cafes, decreasing space turnover and discouraging other patrons. Cafes and coffee shops must now design space to accommodate different customers' needs and consider the impact of personal technology on face-to-face interactions.
Research reveals female athletes performed worse on visual memory tests and reported more symptoms post-concussion. Younger athletes, particularly high school athletes, took longer to recover than collegiate athletes.
Researchers at KIT have successfully manufactured a pentamode metamaterial, also known as a metafluid, which exhibits unique mechanical properties. The material's behavior is determined by varying parameters, allowing it to mimic the properties of water and other substances.
Funding for non-custodial alternatives, community service, and legal representation are essential to reduce overcrowding and HIV/TB transmission. African governments have a responsibility to address life-threatening prison conditions contrary to international law.
A recent study published in the Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery found that hand and wrist injuries account for a significant number of annual emergency department visits in the US. The study estimated that the total cost of these injuries is substantial, with over $2 billion spent on healthcare costs and lost productivity each year.
Researchers found that men chaired committees awarded prizes to males over 95% of the time, despite women making up 21% of nomination pools. Women-only awards can mask disparities, but having women on committees increased their chances of winning.
A cross-disciplinary team at the University of Maryland has designed molecular containers that can hold drug molecules and increase their solubility up to nearly 3000 times. The discovery opens possibilities for rehabilitating drug candidates and improving successful drugs with better solubility.
Researchers have found that sex-linked chromosomes, particularly the W chromosome in female chickens, play a vital role in predicting fertility. The study's results support the idea that these chromosomes are unlikely to become extinct due to their importance in survival.
The Science Media Centre, London, has been awarded the 2012 ECNP Media Award for its outstanding contributions to destigmatising brain disorders. The centre's work highlights the connection between scientific research and public awareness, making complex issues more accessible to a wide audience.
Researchers have identified significant differences in how diabetes affects Asian populations, including unique markers for type 1 diabetes diagnosis. The study highlights the need for culturally sensitive care, tailored treatment guidelines, and expanded education programs.
The TDRS-4 satellite completed its nearly 23-year operational life support and successfully executed end-of-mission de-orbit and decommissioning activities. The satellite's retirement was necessitated by the loss of a battery and reduced storage capacity.
A RAND Corporation study found that taking probiotics can significantly reduce the risk of developing diarrhea caused by antibiotics. The study, which pooled data from over 100 research studies, showed a 42% lower risk of antibiotic-associated diarrhea with probiotic use.
The updated consensus statement provides guidance on setting up, operating, and maintaining high-quality cardiac catheterization laboratories. Modern cath labs now incorporate minimally invasive techniques for congenital heart defects and valvular heart disease, as well as developing hybrid labs with surgical features.
A Brazilian law change enabled banks to sell repossessed cars quickly, encouraging them to offer better terms and increasing lending to riskier borrowers. The 'democratization of credit' resulted in more consumers buying newer, more expensive cars.
Researchers found that sildenafil improved echocardiographic measures of heart function in children and young adults with single ventricle heart disease palliation. The study suggests a potential advance in managing patients with these types of heart defects.
Researchers warn of the risks of MXE, a dissociative drug similar to ketamine, as it spreads quickly online and is often sold as a legal alternative. The study highlights the need for greater international collaboration to address the issue of easily accessible psychoactive drugs.
A large observational study found that pre-pregnancy obesity was associated with a three-point drop in reading scores and a two-point reduction in math scores among children aged 5-7 years. Maternal prepregnancy weight also had a negative impact on fetal brain development.
A new risk prediction equation has been developed to predict death and end-stage renal disease in patients with impaired kidney function. The CKD-EPI equation provides more accurate classification of individuals at risk, leading to better prevention and management of kidney disease-related outcomes.
Researchers have gained new understanding of how our sense of hearing works, finding a key link between touch and sound. The study reveals that specific proteins play a vital role in detecting high-frequency sounds and has implications for future research into hearing and touch.
A new study by Ohio State University finds that higher income inequality in the US leads to increased mortality rates over time. The research suggests that income inequality starts affecting mortality rates 5 years later and peaks after 7 years.
Researchers from Max Planck Institute decoded genes for extreme body size in mice, revealing 67 loci and new genes regulating energy balance, metabolic processes, and growth. The study's findings suggest that artificial selection can parallel natural selection to alter similar genes, shedding light on the genetic basis of complex traits.
A new essay examines what constitutes 'life' and the probability of discovering new life forms. Professor Gerald Joyce argues that a truly new life form would arise through chemistry, not biology, and that humans long for intelligent life in the universe.
Researchers have successfully boosted the fluorescent efficiency of ultra-small quantum dots to as high as 45%, making them suitable for special lighting applications. This improvement translates to a higher luminous efficiency of about 40 lumens/watt, outperforming existing LEDs and incandescent bulbs.
University of Guelph researchers found the location and effect of abnormal heart proteins that can cause cardiac failure. They discovered three variants affecting heart contractions and three others impacting stability and efficiency, paving the way for targeted therapies.
A University of Georgia study analyzed over 46,000 fossils from 52 sites, revealing that abundant species did not necessarily persist longer than less abundant ones outside of the Ordovician extinction event. Instead, rarer genera were more likely to be present longer in the fossil record.
Researchers from Brazil and Korea used human immature dental pulp stem cells to create induced pluripotent stem cells, showing promising characteristics for therapeutic applications. The studies suggest that dental stem cells may be a valuable alternative source for regenerative medicine, including tooth regeneration and repair.
Herbivorous fish play a vital role in maintaining the health of coral reefs by limiting algae growth. A diverse supply of these fish provides strong 'insurance' against environmental fluctuations, reducing the risk of regime shifts towards seaweed-dominated reefs.
A recent study from the Rotman School of Management found that dominant East Asians face workplace harassment and are often stereotyped as being non-dominant. The research highlights the importance of recognizing and challenging these prescriptive racial stereotypes to create a more inclusive work environment.
New estimates suggest that around 16% of all cancers worldwide are infection-related, with a significant disparity between developed and developing countries. Infection-related cancers are largely preventable, particularly those associated with human papillomaviruses, Helicobacter pylori, hepatitis B and C viruses.
A recent Stanford poll found that support for government action on global warming dropped by an average of 5 percentage points per year between 2010 and 2012, from 72% to 62%. This shift was influenced by political rhetoric and cooler-than-average weather, but not economics.
Researchers at The Wistar Institute found that a diverse array of regulatory T cells is necessary to prevent the immune system from generating tissue-specific inflammation in rheumatoid arthritis. This diversity provides a cumulative protective effect against the disease.