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.