A series of studies by Intermountain Healthcare's Oncology Clinical Program shows that improving care across a large hospital system is possible through standardized care. Key findings include reduced mastectomies and lymph node removals in breast cancer patients, indicating a more consistent approach to treatment.
A higher density of neurologists and neurosurgeons in the US is associated with a decreased risk of death from stroke, according to a new study. The study found that an increase of one neuroscience provider per million population was linked to 0.38 fewer deaths from stroke per million population.
The study finds that the combined rate of ice sheet melting is increasing, with Antarctica and Greenland losing more than three times as much ice as in the 1990s. The new research confirms that both polar regions are losing ice, contrary to earlier uncertainty.
Researchers examine China's massive Grain to Green Program, which has invested over $32 billion to persuade farmers to return cropland to forest and grassland. The study found that too much land is being enrolled in the program in flat areas, and policymakers need to communicate more with farmers to better understand their needs.
A Wayne State University researcher is part of an international effort to study the movement of chemical compounds through the world's oceans. The project aims to investigate how carbon is exported from the upper 100 meters of ocean water to deeper waters and how hydrothermal waters affect the removal of polonium and lead.
The NASA HS3 mission has ended its 2012 campaign with a final data-collection flight in the North Pacific Ocean. The Global Hawk aircraft tested three new hurricane-tracking instruments: HIWRAP, HIRAD, and HAMSR, which will be used in next year's campaign to study hurricanes and severe storms.
Stephen Alexander, a University of Missouri professor, has been selected as an AAAS Fellow for his distinguished research on the molecular basis of drug resistance using model organisms. His work on glycosylation has provided important insights into cellular development and protein storage.
Researchers at Case Western Reserve University aim to increase the power density of their iron flow battery, enabling greater energy storage capacity while maintaining a lower cost. The new design could replace traditional storage technologies like pumped hydro and compressed air systems, offering flexibility for grid-scale energy supply.
A study by University of Bristol researchers found that while men made fewer eye movements than women, those they did make were longer and to more varied locations. Women's eyes were drawn to the rest of the bodies, particularly the female figure, in images of heterosexual couples.
Geoscientists highlight the importance of fundamental research in unlocking the full potential of emerging energy sources, including geothermal and shale gas. The development of these resources is hindered by geological and environmental challenges that must be addressed through basic scientific inquiry.
Researchers studied zebrafish mating behavior and found that males change color during courtship, while females do not, supporting the hypothesis that body coloration plays a role in zebrafish courtship. The study also revealed differences in color properties between wild-derived and domesticated strains of zebrafish.
A study by University of Iowa researchers predicts that North Atlantic tropical storms will become more intense as CO2 levels rise, with potentially devastating consequences for the East Coast US. The research used computer models and scenarios to examine projected changes in storm intensity and frequency.
A recent study published in PLOS One reveals that a common diarrhea-causing bacterium triggers an overactive immune response, worsening illness in hospital-acquired infections. Researchers found that activating a protective mechanism involving the PPARgamma pathway can reduce disease severity and be activated by existing diabetes drugs.
Douglas Kell, a University of Manchester professor, was elected a Fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) for his work in quantitative and systems biology and analytical biotechnology. He is one of fewer than 50 UK scientists to hold this honor, and will receive an official certificate and pin at the AA...
Residents in a new study by University of Pennsylvania researchers emphasize the negative impact of vacant land on physical and mental health. Participants expressed concerns about crime, stress, and feelings of helplessness when confronted with vacant lots, which often harbor garbage, vermin, and other hazards.
Researchers discovered a viable community of bacteria surviving without sunlight in Lake Vida's brine, which could have implications for finding life elsewhere. The findings suggest chemical reactions between the brine and sediments generate energy for microbial life.
Researchers explore autism spectrum disorder genetics and biomarker development in a special issue of Disease Markers. Early diagnosis through biomarkers could improve individual outcomes with early behavioral intervention.
Researchers found that hospital cleaning protocols are often inadequate to remove multidrug-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii from patient rooms, with over half of rooms still contaminated after terminal cleaning. Persistent room contamination poses a risk for future patients, highlighting the need for improved infection control measures.
Research reveals obese children exhibit greater brain activation in reward regions when exposed to food logos compared to healthy weight peers. Healthy weight children show increased self-control and brain activity associated with controlling cravings.
Food scientists at Virginia Tech have developed a way to fortify milk with fish oil without destroying flavor or shelf life. The study found that skim milk with 78 parts butter oil to 22 parts fish oil delivered 432 milligrams of heart-healthy fatty acids per cup, meeting the daily target for healthy people.
Emerging infectious diseases can be split into two types: introduced and locally emerging. Introduced diseases often cause a spike in infections, while locally emerging diseases show a steady increase. Climate change is not a major driving force behind emerging diseases.
Researchers developed a technique for estimating grape composition and variety using computer imaging, identifying exact color and morphological characteristics. This new method can help vine-growers decide the best moment for picking grapes, while also providing automated quality control and inspection.
A new study reveals that mixing oil with dispersants used in the 2010 Gulf of Mexico clean-up increases toxicity up to 52-fold, harming rotifers and potentially marine food webs. The study's findings suggest that natural dispersal may be a less toxic alternative to current methods.
Typhoon Bopha intensified into a typhoon with NASA's TRMM satellite capturing rainfall data and noticing 'Hot Tower' thunderstorms. The storm had several hot towers over 9.3 miles high, indicating an increased risk of intensification.
Researchers studying grey-mouse lemurs have found evidence of paternal kin recognition through vocalizations in a small-brained, solitary foraging mammal. The study provides insight into early primates from which humans evolved and suggests that kin recognition through voice was important for primate evolution.
New studies discuss the ecology, drivers, and dynamics of zoonoses, highlighting the need for effective collaboration between experts. While there are concerns about predicting zoonotic pandemics, recent advancements in modeling and technology suggest we may be on the verge of improvement.
Researchers at the University of Washington have developed a versatile platform to offer contraception and prevent HIV using electrically spun cloth with nanometer-sized fibers. The fabric can dissolve to release drugs, providing immediate or sustained protection against unwanted pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases.
A study found that antiretroviral therapy (ART) for the HIV-positive partner in a serodiscordant couple significantly reduces HIV transmission rates, with a 26% relative reduction. However, the protective effect of ART seemed to only last for one year.
Researchers found that schizophrenia patients' brains process simple auditory tones inefficiently, leading to widespread dysfunction and difficulties in attention, learning, and recalling information. This impairment can also affect social relationships, school or job performance, and overall quality of life.
A study published in Genetics Society of America's journal found that Native Americans and Northern Europeans are more closely related than previously thought. The research used statistical tools to show that Neanderthals mixed with modern humans also revealed a common ancestor between Native Americans and Northern Europeans.
Studies by University of Missouri psychologists found that individuals with 'urgency' personality tend to drive after drinking due to impulsivity. Reducing travel wait times for taxis and public transit could provide a safe alternative, helping to lower DWI rates.
Researchers have developed a new treatment approach for Alzheimer's disease by knocking out the gene responsible for producing the HDAC6 enzyme. This intervention improved cognitive abilities and behavioral disorders in mice, suggesting that improving cellular traffic may be key to treating neurodegenerative diseases.
Anton Zeilinger, an Austrian physicist, has been awarded the title of Fellow by the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) for his significant work in physics. He is a professor at the University of Vienna and scientific director of the Institute of Quantum Optics and Quantum Information.
Scientists warn of a growing threat from emerging zoonotic diseases as human activities such as land use change, globalization, and social upheaval drive their emergence. The disease burden can be eased by combining efforts between clinicians and public health officials to address the ecological drivers of transmission.
A new study reveals that insects prefer exotic plants over natives, maintaining balance in ecosystems. Native plants are less susceptible to these insects and can thrive alongside exotics.
The latest volume of Crime and Justice series explores how prosecutors exercise discretion, with a focus on equality, justice, and rationality. It presents case studies from the US and abroad to identify best practices in prosecutor behavior.
The Joint Center for Energy Storage Research (JCESR) will combine the R&D firepower of five DOE national laboratories, universities, and private firms to achieve revolutionary advances in battery performance. The project aims to reduce America's reliance on foreign oil and lower energy costs.
New research reveals higher concussion incidence rates in female hockey players compared to males, emphasizing the need for reevaluation of concussion definition. Advanced imaging techniques and neuropsychological assessments were used to track changes in brain function over an entire season.
The 2012 Atlantic Hurricane season was marked by 19 tropical cyclones, with 10 becoming hurricanes and one major hurricane. The TRMM satellite's accurate measurements revealed high rainfall totals in 'Hurricane Alley,' with some areas receiving over 38 inches of rain.
A recent study found that two-thirds of Australian mums-to-be are unsure about how much weight they should gain during pregnancy. The majority knew healthy eating was important but struggled to identify the right amount from different food groups. Overweight women were more likely to gain too much weight, while those with a lower BMI s...
A new research paper by Dr. Sharon Straus identified five key ingredients necessary for a successful mentoring relationship: reciprocity, mutual respect, clear expectations, personal connections, and shared values. Good mentors are honest, trustworthy, and active listeners who help their mentees achieve work-life balance.
Stanford researchers use a new animal model to study the early course of urogenital schistosomiasis, a chronic disease affecting 112 million people worldwide. They found that continuous waves of egg deposition are what's generating chronic disease, and that killing the worms can halt the cycle.
The study uses combined imaging power to unveil spectacular jets of the galaxy, powered by a 2.5-billion-solar-mass central black hole. The jets exhibit unusual ring-like structures and are composed of high-energy plasma beams, subatomic particles, and magnetic fields.
Researchers advise limiting daily vigorous exercise to 30-50 minutes due to potential harm from excessive intensity. A balanced routine of moderate physical activity can add years to life, while marathon-like activities may speed progress towards the finish line.
Researchers track TB transmission between cattle and badgers using whole genome DNA sequencing and mathematical modeling. The study reveals a close relationship between the two species' bacterial types, highlighting the potential for next-generation sequencing to inform disease control policies.
Research identified UBE3B as the gene responsible for a rare developmental disorder in children, causing brain abnormalities and reduced growth. The study used a combination of DNA sequencing and mouse models to confirm the link between the gene mutation and the disorder.
A four-year $600,000 grant from the National Institute of Mental Health will support an SDSU scientist's research on brain network connectivity in autistic children and adolescents. The study aims to understand how atypical brain connections link to impaired social functioning in children with autism.
Richard Seto and Jing Shi, professors at the University of California, Riverside, have been elected APS Fellows for their innovative work in relativistic heavy ion physics and spin transport in organic semiconductors. Their research has led to significant discoveries in the study of hadronic matter and Quark Gluon Plasma.
A pilot study involving 30 at-risk adolescent girls will assess the feasibility and promise of a bundled risk reduction intervention to address HIV, alcohol-exposed pregnancy, and nicotine-exposed pregnancy. The intervention includes counseling sessions, pediatrician appointments, and referrals for smoking cessation.
Researchers at CU-Boulder have discovered that the western Grand Canyon was largely carved out of its current depth by about 70 million years ago, during the time of the dinosaurs. This new date challenges the conventional understanding of the canyon's formation and suggests a more complex history of geological events.
A study published in Frontiers in Neuroscience found that musical duets show coordinated brain oscillations, even when playing different voices of the same song. This suggests a direct neural basis for interpersonal coordination, with synchronized brain activity observed in regions associated with social cognition and music production.
Researchers at NIH/Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development found that prenatal intervention with neuroprotective peptides reduces learning deficits in mice with Down syndrome-like characteristics. The study suggests potential therapeutic benefits for individuals with Down syndrome.
Six Penn State faculty members have been named Fellows of the American Association for the Advancement of Science, including Peter Hudson, Soundar Kumara, Andrew Read, Nitin Samarth, Matthew Thomas, and Karl Zimmerer. They were recognized for their research in various fields, including wildlife disease ecology, interdisciplinary indust...
A phase I clinical trial has shown that ponatinib is highly active against patients with chronic myeloid leukemia and Philadelphia chromosome positive acute lymphoblastic lymphoma who have developed resistance to standard treatments. The study's findings suggest that ponatinib will expand the therapeutic armamentarium for these patients.
A new framework is proposed to guide career direction in health systems improvement, a term encompassing management, research, and public policy. The authors suggest that trainees consider reflecting on their preferences, identifying core areas of focus, and exploring additional formal training options.
Researchers discovered that acinar cells convert into duct-like cells that initiate tumors in pancreatic cancer. Inflammation of the pancreas promotes this conversion. The study suggests Sox9 as a potential target to prevent early tumor-initiating events.
Undergraduate researchers at Worcester Polytechnic Institute created engineered surfaces that kill 34% of E.coli bacteria when peptides are lying flat, but 82% when attached vertically. The team developed a technique to monitor AMP attachment and plans to test other materials for optimal antimicrobial activity
Researchers aim to understand how service members with spinal cord injuries reintegrate into society and rebuild their lives. The three-year grant will study 60 veterans at different stages of recovery, exploring their long-term goals and expectations for community reintegration.
A UK-based research project, ECHOES, has successfully used technology to enhance communication skills among autistic children. The program allows them to interact with virtual characters and explore digital environments, leading to improved social and communication skills.
Scientists have created a novel concept for self-reporting materials that utilize zinc oxide tetrapod crystals to detect internal damages in composite materials. The resulting composite material exhibits improved strength and emits light when exposed to UV light, providing a visual warning of potential failure.