Researchers at NYU used computer simulations to study the stability of DNA lesions caused by polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), which can lead to cancer. The study found that some PAH-derived lesions stabilize the DNA they damage, making it difficult for repair proteins to mark them for repair.
A University of Alberta researcher warns that couples should address relationship doubts before getting married. The study found that more confident couples spent more time together and stayed happy over a four-year period.
Studies by University of Illinois researchers Jesse Preston and Daniel Yang found that asking people to think broadly about a subject can lead to increased moderation in political beliefs. The research used techniques known to induce an abstract mindset, such as viewing images or reading ambiguous articles in different formats.
A new study tested Cope's Rule, which suggests that small animals evolve into bigger ones, on non-avian dinosaurs. The research found that some groups of dinosaurs, such as ceratopsids and hadrosaurs, tend to increase in size over time, while others, like four-legged sauropods, show no upper limit to their body size.
A recent study published in Psychological Science found that using a specific frame to describe income inequality can influence people's views on redistributive tax policies. Participants who were told that the rich make more than the poor showed less opposition to raising taxes on the wealthy, while those in control conditions and tho...
A new study by the American Psychological Association found that about half of addiction counselors in the US now find moderate drug use acceptable as an intermediate goal, while one-third consider it acceptable as a final goal. However, for clients with severe dependence, limits on consumption are still widely rejected.
Researchers found that synchronized electrical signals between two key hubs in the brain's working memory circuit carry information about short-term visual memories. The study uses synchronized oscillations to distinguish between object identity and location, potentially overturning prevailing theory on how visual information is encoded.
The Biophysical Society has named Klaus Schulten, Louis De Felice, and Peter von Hippel as recipients of the 2013 Distinguished Service Award, Emily M. Gray Award, and Founders Award respectively. These honors recognize their contributions to advancing knowledge in biophysics.
A University of British Columbia study reveals that conservatives and liberals share a surprising level of common moral ground, particularly on issues of fairness and care for humanity. The research suggests that progress on divisive social issues is more likely when framed in these terms.
Researchers have revised the timeline of our solar system's formation using uranium and lead isotopes in primitive meteorites. The study reveals that chondrules formed during the first three million years, contrary to previous assumptions. This new understanding paints a more familiar picture of planetary system development.
A Penn State study found that enrolling uninsured adults in Medicaid would increase costs by 13% due to their higher disease burden. Extending Medicaid coverage may not be the most cost-effective solution, suggesting strengthening current safety-net providers might be a better approach.
A father-son team has developed a mathematical model to balance costs and benefits of different disaster protection strategies. The approach considers optimization techniques and helps communities make informed choices about protection measures.
A new study by Virginia Commonwealth University Massey Cancer Center reveals that men with employment-contingent health insurance are more likely to feel 'locked' into remaining at work after a health shock, while those on private or spouse's insurance plans face fewer risks. The Affordable Care Act may alleviate this issue, providing ...
A study of almost 1,000 men diagnosed with prostate cancer found that active surveillance can reduce or avoid side effects such as incontinence and impotence. Many low-risk tumours are slow-growing and may never develop symptoms during a lifetime.
The Geological Society of America has organized a break-out discussion panel to address the devastating effects of Hurricane Sandy on rapid sea-level rise and its impacts. Geoscience experts will discuss the changes caused by the storm to the U.S. East Coast, tying into scheduled presentations on the topic.
Researchers developed a new method to study cellular transport dynamics, providing more comprehensive information than existing methods. The dispersion-relation fluorescence spectroscopy (DFS) approach labels molecules of interest, analyzing spontaneous fluorescence intensity fluctuations to quantify mass transport dynamics.
Researchers found that global warming prevented plant and animal species from fully recovering from the largest mass extinction in Earth's history. The study, led by Ohio State University doctoral student Alexa Sedlacek, suggests that life on Earth today may face similar problems in trying to recover from current climate change.
A recent study by the Animal Health and Veterinary Laboratories Agency (AHVLA) reveals that young blackbirds can become 'drunk' on fermented rowan berries. The birds exhibited symptoms similar to those of human intoxication, including unsteadiness, loss of coordination, and tendency to fall over.
A new MRI model reveals why images are sensitive to nerve fiber direction and allows for detailed information about fiber size and direction. This discovery will help clinicians recognize lesions and tailor scans to patients with specific needs.
Recent presidents earn high grades for economic performance, while some historical figures receive failing marks. A new study analyzing data from 1789 to 2009 assigns a grade point average to each president, providing an objective measure of their economic success.
Researchers have identified a specific cellular mechanism that may help overcome endocrine therapy-resistance in patients with estrogen-positive breast cancers. A novel molecular 'crosstalk' point between estrogen and HER2 signaling pathways has been found to drive tamoxifen resistance, according to new findings.
Climate change, fire suppression, and invasive species are threatening mountain meadows in the Pacific Northwest. These ecosystems, once carpeted with grasses, shrubs, and wildflowers, are declining rapidly, with some areas experiencing a 35% increase in tree occupation over just 57 years.
Sandy's remnants continue to linger over a large area in eastern Canada and the northeastern US, with low-pressure areas stretching from Newfoundland and Labrador west over Quebec, Ottawa, and Toronto. The National Weather Service projects that the low-pressure area will shift offshore by November 6.
Researchers found that individuals who dwell on daily stressors and become increasingly upset are more likely to suffer from chronic health issues. The study suggests that learning how to manage stress is key to maintaining good health.
Researchers found that cannabis users with schizophrenia have higher brain activity and correct answers than those without prior cannabis use. The study suggests that cannabis use can imitate the cognitive weakness leading to schizophrenia in non-psychotic individuals.
A four-year health care project in India's poorest district resulted in a half-fall in infant mortality and a three-quarters reduction in women's death from pregnancy and childbirth complications. Nurse-based clinics expanded access to healthcare, changing attitudes towards patients and leading to increased check-ups and hospital births.
Researchers at the University of Vienna have achieved a world record in entangling twisted light quanta, demonstrating a new method for gyrating photons. This breakthrough could lead to entangling and twisting macroscopic objects in two different directions.
Recent studies suggest that hypertension and diabetes are more prevalent in black versus white donors, but the risk attributable to donation remains unknown. Individuals with prediabetes can safely donate kidneys without increasing their risk of developing diabetes or kidney failure.
The Biophysical Society has recognized five individuals with its 2013 awards for their significant contributions to biophysics and biomedical research. Carol Robinson and Joseph Zasadzinski received awards for their innovative work on mass spectrometry and lipid structures, respectively.