Researchers found that doses from mammography scatter radiation are negligible and do not increase cancer risk. The use of thyroid shields is unnecessary due to the extremely low dose received by the gland.
Researchers found that Galapagos giant tortoises have a partial migration system, where only adult animals wander and move up to 10 kilometers into the highlands during the dry season. The younger tortoises remain in the lower-elevated areas all year round.
Researchers propose a continuum-based model that illustrates contact line pinning at phase interfaces between materials, differing from traditional Wenzel and Cassie models. The study shows the macroscopic contact angle depends solely on the triple contact line's properties.
Researchers have adapted weather forecasting techniques to predict local flu outbreaks, providing weeks of warning before the peak. The system uses data assimilation and Google Flu Trends to estimate flu-related sickness in regions, allowing health officials to better prepare and make informed decisions.
The American Society of Clinical Oncology's Quality Care Symposium reveals important advances in cancer care quality measurement, physician adherence to quality standards, and end-of-life care. The studies also highlight the overuse of contralateral prophylactic mastectomy.
Researchers develop a sediment budget for an alpine cirque in British Columbia, Canada, revealing glacial retreat rates of 0.5-0.9 mm per year. In Tibet, new data supports a model of rift evolution involving upper crustal thinning and isostatic rebound.
Researchers at the University of Liverpool developed a computer-based test to help heavy drinkers reduce their alcohol consumption by practicing restraint in response to images of alcoholic drinks. The study found that participants who learned to exercise self-control subsequently drank less beer than control groups.
The NSF is highlighting the importance of incorporating human factors into geophysical research to address environmental issues. By combining natural and social sciences, researchers can gain a more comprehensive understanding of sustainability challenges., Researchers supported by the CNH program are exploring ways to balance human ne...
Researchers have successfully increased graphene's conduction electrons' spin-orbit coupling by a factor of 10,000, enabling the construction of a switch that can be controlled via small electric fields. The discovery opens up new possibilities for building graphene-based components.
Researchers found fewer benefits associated with aldosterone antagonist drugs, including no difference in deaths or hospital readmissions for cardiovascular events. However, patients taking the drugs were at higher risk of hyperkalemia and less likely to be readmitted to the hospital for heart failure.
Researchers found that both skeletal muscle MSCs and adipose tissue MSCs improved left ventricle function and reduced infarct size after injection into the heart of laboratory rats. The study suggests that these cells may be a potential treatment modality for patients with acute myocardial infarction.
Two studies presented at RSNA 2012 found that revised guidelines for screening mammography may lead to a decline in screening, potentially resulting in missed cancers. The new recommendations, issued by the USPSTF, recommend routine screening every two years for women 50-74 years old.
Researchers at the Institute of Molecular Biology found that deletion of just one gene, Gadd45g, results in complete sex reversal of male mice. The study uncovers a novel signaling cascade essential for initiating male sex organ development.
A study identified a pattern of frequent injuries, including facial trauma, dental trauma, and brain hemorrhages, among abused elderly patients. Radiologists can use these findings to aid in identifying potential cases of elder abuse, which is often neglected compared to child abuse.
Scientists discovered injecting Wnt7a into muscle affected by Duchenne muscular dystrophy significantly increases its size and strength. The treatment shows promise as a therapy akin to insulin use for diabetics.
Scientists at the University of Toronto have discovered a method to transform aged stem cells into functioning-like younger ones, paving the way for growing cardiac patches from patient's own cells. This breakthrough could potentially avoid rejection and treat damaged or diseased hearts.
A NIH study found that changes in immune gene function may cause age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Decreased DNA methylation led to increased IL17RC protein, promoting inflammation and immune cell recruitment that damages the retina.
A new process of creating islet cell clusters has been successfully developed to improve pancreatic transplantation. The clusters were engineered to overcome challenges such as hypoxic conditions and immune reactions, resulting in higher viability rates and potential cure for type I diabetes.
Scientists are studying fish ear bones to understand the impacts of climate change on fish growth and distribution. The otoliths, which record annual growth rings, can provide insights into environmental conditions and help guide conservation efforts.
Researchers examine the effects of human activity on land modification, finding over 50% of Earth's surface has been transformed. This transformation influences local and global food production, leading to concerns about planetary resources and population overshoot.
A review of existing studies found vitamin D associated with a significant reduction in tooth decay incidence in children. The findings support the importance of vitamin D for dental health and suggest a potential preventive role.
A study published in Alzheimer Disease & Associated Disorders found that a florbetapir PET scan can alter physicians' diagnostic thinking, guiding treatment and further testing for patients with cognitive impairment. The test showed amyloid deposits in 113 out of 229 patients, leading to changes in diagnosis and treatment plans.
Experts argue that uncertainty about climate change impacts should not delay decision-making on adaptation measures. The costs of adapting to climate change include infrastructure upgrades and risk reduction strategies.
A study comparing plant chromosome numbers among Italian, Slovak, and Polish floras found significant differences, confirming that mean chromosome number increases with increasing latitude. The findings suggest a relationship between polyploidy and latitude, but more research is needed for the Austral hemisphere.
A new study found a four-fold increase in breast cancer incidence among women with neurofibromatosis-1, prompting recommendations for earlier screening. The researchers suggest annual manual breast exams and mammograms beginning at age 40 for this high-risk population.
A survey of women with dense breasts found that many would pursue additional screening if notified of their breast density. The study highlights the need for patient education regarding breast density and available alternative technologies to aid in screening.
A study found that heavily indebted medical students choosing primary care face significant financial challenges. To mitigate these issues, they must consider alternative repayment strategies or lifestyle adjustments, such as living in a more affordable area or opting for an extended repayment plan.
A UN report warns that thawing permafrost could significantly amplify global warming due to the release of potent greenhouse gases like methane and carbon dioxide. The report notes that permafrost covers nearly a quarter of the northern hemisphere, holding 1,700 gigatonnes of carbon.
Researchers at the University of Montreal have identified a chemical chain that causes neurodegenerative diseases such as Huntington's disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and dementia. Increasing another cell chemical called progranulin has been shown to reduce neuron death by combating mutant huntingtin protein accumulation.
Researchers are exploring an emerging processing technology developed by Analog Devices Lyric Labs that could revolutionize onboard data processing in space. The technology, which represents probabilities rather than binary ones and zeros, enables parallel calculations, reducing power consumption and increasing efficiency.
A Cornell University study found that serving vegetables with dinner increases the positive response of the meal and its preparer. Parents surveyed by researchers rated vegetable-prepared meals as more complete, loving, and tasty, and perceived the cook as more thoughtful and attentive.
A study published in the European Heart Journal found that digoxin is associated with a significant increase in deaths in patients with atrial fibrillation. High levels of digoxin in the blood have been correlated with an increased death rate in these patients.
A new study reveals that hyperparasitoids exploit plant odours triggered by parasitoid-infected caterpillars, compromising the mutualistic relationship between plants and parasitoids. This complex network of interactions highlights the importance of considering species at multiple trophic levels in ecological functions.
A recent study by George Washington University Professor Amy Zanne found that plants worldwide are operating at their safety threshold for drought, making forests vulnerable to environmental stress. The research reveals that while plants vary in drought resistance, they share similar hydraulic safety thresholds across all forest types.
A study of over 4,000 patients found that discontinuing warfarin therapy within 3 months after surgery increases the risk of stroke, thromboembolic complications, and cardiovascular death. Continuing warfarin treatment for an additional 3-6 months may reduce cardiovascular mortality.
Researchers have broadened the understanding of how cells regulate silencing of the X chromosome, finding indications of gene activity inside and outside the Xist cloud. The study's findings suggest a more subtle regulation mechanism than previously thought, with potential implications for cancer therapy and non-coding RNA function.
The new consensus statement from the Hinxton Group highlights the tension between intellectual property policies and scientific norms in East Asia. Japan and China are underrepresented in patents and licensing, but have strengths in national health care systems that could benefit stem cell-based therapies.
A recent study published in Autism Research found that six-month-old infants at risk for autism spectrum disorder produce cries with higher and more variable fundamental frequency than low-risk infants. The study suggests the potential of cry acoustics as an early screening method for autism.
A study identified a single gene, ABCA3, associated with significant cases of respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) in full-term babies. The researchers found that mutations in this gene account for about 10% of RDS cases and can be treated with neonatal intensive care.
The Decker School of Nursing at Binghamton University has received a $757,000 grant from the US Department of Health and Human Services to provide financial support for graduate students. Funded students receive tuition waivers and stipends, enabling them to focus on their studies without financial burden.
Researchers found artificial light from industrial areas influences the foraging behavior of common redshanks, allowing them to forage more efficiently at night. This contradicts previous studies that reported negative effects of light pollution on wildlife.
A study using PET/CT imaging found statistically significant decreases in regional brain metabolism associated with symptoms of chemo brain phenomenon. Researchers hope to establish a prospective study to improve treatment for patients experiencing this debilitating condition.
Sea levels are rising at a rate of 60% faster than the IPCC's latest best estimates, with satellite data recording a rate of 3.2 mm per year compared to projected 2 mm per year. This increase in sea-level rise is likely due to global warming and correlates well with the increase in global temperature.
Researchers at UMass Amherst and Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory have developed a nanotube-based fabric that repels chemical and biological agents. The new material will be breathable yet protective, responding reversibly to environmental threats.
The study provides a comprehensive review of the Yuzhou Flora, recognizing 111 genera and 307 species from 40 fossil plant layers. The authors propose hypotheses on evolutionary trends in leaf structure and venation patterns, as well as a new morphotype classification scheme for Gigantopteridales.
A new species of hermit crab, Areopaguristes tudgei, has been discovered on the barrier reef off the coast of Belize by American University biologist Christopher Tudge. The species was named in his honor due to his unique contributions to knowledge of hermit crab reproductive biology.
Scientists at Karolinska Institutet have found that IGF-1 blockers are only partially effective because they stimulate the MEK channel, allowing cancer cells to survive. Researchers propose a combination therapy using MEK inhibitors and IGF-1 blockers to overcome this issue
Biomedical research faces a crisis due to flat government funding and reduced drug industry investment. Experts propose innovative private investment sources such as mutual funds, patent pools, and research bonds to support basic biology and translational research.
The Cassini mission has discovered a second feature shaped like the video game icon PAC-MAN on Saturn's moon Tethys. This finding confirms that high-energy electrons can dramatically alter icy satellite surfaces, and suggests that such anomalies may be widespread in the Saturn system.
An international team of biologists led by IU has identified the enzyme and molecular mechanism controlling chromatic acclimation in Synechococcus, a cyanobacteria that maximizes light harvesting for photosynthesis. This discovery has implications for healthcare and climate change research.
Researchers used machine learning techniques to predict functional associations between proteins in bacteria and extend biological pathways in humans. The study offers new insights into protein function and its relation to cellular aging and cancer.
The international consortium has published the watermelon genome sequence, revealing a loss of natural disease defenses during domestication. Breeders can now use this information to recover some of these natural defenses, potentially leading to more nutritious and resistant watermelons.
A new study from Rice University explores the effects of firm actions and industry spillovers on media coverage following wrongdoing. The research found that companies directly responsible for wrongdoing face more damaging media backlash than those not directly involved but affected by industry-wide scandals.
A study found that an active lifestyle can preserve gray matter in older adults' brains, reducing the burden of dementia and Alzheimer's disease. The research suggests that a combination of lifestyle choices, including aerobic physical activities, may alleviate brain aging.
A new system uses real-time data and techniques from weather forecasting to predict the timing and severity of seasonal influenza outbreaks. The forecast can inform decisions on vaccine stockpiling and school closures, ultimately improving public health preparedness.
Research has shown a three-fold increase in autism risk associated with air pollution exposure during pregnancy and early childhood. Novel neuroimaging approaches have also confirmed an association between autism and immune function changes, shedding light on mechanisms behind the disorder.
Researchers have discovered that putrescine water can increase the viability of egg cells in women over 30 by inhibiting chromosomal defects. The compound, naturally produced in mammals during ovulation, has been shown to reduce defective eggs by over 50% in older mice.
Paleontologists find varying evolutionary modes among morphological traits within fossil species, validating mosaic evolution. The study analyzes hundreds of sequences of fossil samples using model selection methods, revealing conflicting patterns of change.
Researchers used MRI to image patients with mild traumatic brain injury and found that some brains compensate for damage by changing water flow patterns. This compensation is associated with fewer post-concussion symptoms and higher functioning, suggesting a potential new approach to treating traumatic brain injury.
A study by Massachusetts General Hospital finds that newly insured patients may face challenges in accessing primary care due to a shortage of safety-net physicians. Safety-net physicians are more likely to accept new Medicaid and uninsured patients, but their capacity is being stretched to the limit.