Markus Covert, a Stanford bioengineer, has been awarded a $1.5 million grant to develop complex computer models of living organisms. He aims to build models of human cells and tackle fundamental questions in biology.
A new study of 150,000 people in 142 countries found that positive emotions have a stronger link to health in low-income countries. In contrast, the association between positive emotions and health is weaker in industrialized nations.
Researchers at Stanford University have found that the majority of grid-scale battery technologies have high embodied-energy costs compared to pumped hydroelectric storage. Improved cycle life can reduce long-term energetic costs for batteries, making them a more practical option.
A clinical trial found that a centralized, patient-preference program decreased depressive symptoms and may be cost-neutral over time. Active treatment for post-ACS depression was associated with significant improvements in symptoms and potentially lower healthcare costs.
Heavy drinkers show greater and faster acetate uptake and metabolism in the brain compared to light drinkers. Acetate can serve as an alternative energy source, potentially alleviating withdrawal symptoms during detoxification.
Researchers have developed temperature-controlled nanopores that can detect and identify a wide range of molecules in the bloodstream, including proteins and DNA. This innovation may enable doctors to diagnose diseases more effectively by quickly identifying indicators of disease in the blood.
A new study defines 'sudden exhaustion syndrome' as a distinct condition affecting cancer patients undergoing treatment, characterized by intense and prolonged fatigue. The research aims to enhance recognition and management of this often-overlooked symptom among oncology professionals.
Researchers at the University of Oregon found that victims of institutional betrayal experienced more severe symptoms of anxiety, dissociation, and trauma. The study suggests that organizations need to widen their actions and policies to prevent and respond to sexual assaults.
A study by neuroscientists found that while they recognize the importance of new media in shaping public opinion, most researchers make little personal use of social networks. The study suggests scientists still value the vetting process for information in traditional media channels.
Scientists discuss significant correlations between abortion and coercion, intimate partner violence, psychological consequences, and suicide rates. Countries with restrictive abortion laws display lower abortion rates and maternal mortality rates compared to those with more permissive laws.
Community Solutions, Inc. has donated $500,000 to Rutgers School of Criminal Justice to support research on reducing youth gang involvement. The partnership aims to marry direct services with evidence-based research through the Multisystemic Therapy program.
A study by an international team of researchers has found that a combination of cytomegalovirus infection in the mother and a specific gene variant in the child significantly increases the risk of schizophrenia. The risk is five times higher than usual, according to the research published in Molecular Psychiatry.
Researchers at Michigan State University have made a groundbreaking discovery about the survival mechanisms of primitive red algae. The algae's ability to thrive in hot and acidic environments lies in part in their membrane proteins, which are also found in human cells and hold promise for treating diseases.
Researchers engineered Chlamydomonas reinhardtii into a rainbow of colors by producing six different fluorescent proteins in the algae cells. This innovation provides a powerful tool for algae researchers to sort cells, view cellular structures, and create fusion proteins.
A recent NIH study found a strong association between cold-dry and humid-rainy climates and seasonal influenza epidemics worldwide. The research used a climate-based model to map influenza activity globally, accounting for diverse seasonal patterns in temperate, subtropical, and tropical regions.
A UC Irvine study of 150,000 people in 142 countries found that the link between positive emotions and health is stronger in developing nations. People in Malawi showed a more robust connection between positive emotions and health than residents of the U.S., highlighting the importance of emotional well-being worldwide.
Albert Einstein College of Medicine researchers have been awarded a $12 million grant from the National Institutes of Health to develop a drug-impregnated intravaginal ring to prevent HIV infection in women. The device aims to provide safe and effective prevention strategies for women at increased risk of HIV infection.
A new study reveals that small physician practices serving children are unprepared to become recognized as 'medical homes', which prioritize quality improvement and comprehensive care. This limitation may hinder efforts to improve healthcare for children, particularly those with higher medical needs.
A new study from the University of Utah reveals that individuals with higher mindfulness traits experience greater emotional stability, better self-control, and lower physiological activation before bedtime. This finding suggests that mindfulness may contribute to improved emotional and physical well-being by enhancing self-regulation ...
Researchers from Concordia University propose a unique simulation technique to prepare rookie reporters for traumatic events. The study finds that simulation-based training can teach journalists ethical behavior and reduce the risk of further traumatizing victims.
A new model of cell fusion was created by researchers at Johns Hopkins, revealing two critical components necessary for the process. The discovery may lead to improved treatments for muscular dystrophy, as cell fusion plays a crucial role in muscle regeneration.
Researchers explore ion traps as a promising architecture for constructing a quantum computer, leveraging qubits' coherence time and protection from ambient disturbances. The development of micro-fabricated devices and cryogenic cooling techniques aims to push the limits of pressure and storage capacity.
A longitudinal study found that people who carry excess weight over their lifetime have increased left ventricular mass and relative wall thickness, strong predictors of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. The earlier someone becomes overweight, the greater the increase in heart muscle mass later in life.
The American Association of Neuroscience Nurses (AANN) is launching an iPad app edition of its official research publication, the Journal of Neuroscience Nursing. The new platform provides fast and convenient access to evidence-based information for neuroscience nurses.
After over 20 years, a team led by Professor Merlin Crossley has found the genetic puzzle piece for hemophilia B Leyden, a rare disorder that improves symptoms after puberty. The breakthrough demonstrates the importance of persistence and curiosity in scientific research.
A University of Granada researcher proposes that antibiotic abuse forces bacteria to take up DNA from resistant strains, leading to increased resistance. This stress-induced uptake can also make non-resistant bacteria more virulent, exacerbating the problem.
Scientists at UCLA discovered a peptide called hypocretin that increases happiness and alertness in humans, while another peptide MCH plays a key role in sleep regulation. The study provides a potential new approach to treating psychiatric disorders like depression.
Researchers have discovered that gateways in the nucleus control chromosome structure and gene expression, impacting disease triggers.
Researchers validate resveratrol's direct activation of SIRT1, a protein promoting health and longevity. The study suggests potent drugs may treat and prevent age-related diseases.
African lion populations face extinction due to human-lion conflicts. Fencing can protect people and wildlife; a global funding agency could fund large-scale fencing projects. The 'Marshall Plan' for African wildlife conservation is proposed by the leading lion researcher.
A study published in Molecular Cell reveals that the oncogenic protein SRSF1 promotes cellular senescence by stabilizing p53, preventing cancerous proliferation. The research also identifies a link between oncogenic stress and ribosomal stress response.
A powerful Nor'easter merged two low-pressure areas on March 6, bringing winter weather advisories to the Mid-Atlantic. NASA provided satellite views of the storm's power and movement, showing the heaviest precipitation over New Jersey and Maryland.
A Mayo Clinic study found that participants who received financial incentives lost more weight and remained in the program longer than those without incentives. The results suggest that financial incentives can improve weight loss outcomes and adherence, potentially helping to address the growing obesity epidemic in the US.
The FASEB MARC Program has announced the travel award recipients for the 2013 American College of Sports Medicine Northwest Chapter Meeting, aiming to promote diversity in the basic science community. The program aims to increase the number and competitiveness of underrepresented minorities in biomedical research.
A 10-year study found that daily walking increased as residents had more access to local transport and recreational destinations. For every shop or facility available, residents walked an extra 5-6 minutes or 21 minutes per week respectively.
A minimally invasive procedure called gastric artery chemical embolization (GACE) was found to be safe and effective in reducing hunger hormone levels and promoting weight loss in obese patients. After six months, participants experienced significant weight loss, with an average of 45 pounds lost.
Between 2011 and 2020, over 140 million girls will become child brides, with 50 million under 15. This practice increases the risk of intimate partner violence and HIV infection. The UN calls for an end to child marriage by 2030 to meet Millennium Development Goals.
A new study from NIMBioS found that using insecticide-treated bed nets can positively affect malaria's reproduction number, leading to potential elimination. The use of ITNs could reduce the transmission of malaria by reducing mosquito density and lifespan.
A study published in Cell Press reveals that a compound derived from fats found in fish oils prevents death in influenza-virus-infected mice. The compound, protectin D1, inhibits virus replication and improves survival when given 2 days after infection, offering a promising strategy for treating severe influenza.
Scientists have found that mild traumatic brain injuries can lead to swelling, reduced blood flow, and death of neurons. Astrocytes, which supply nutrients to neurons, swell quickly and significantly, smothering them and their branches. This secondary damage can occur within hours of the initial injury.
A new study found that school-based kitchen garden programs increase children's willingness to try new foods, with cooking classes playing a key role. The program not only teaches environmental sustainability but also skills to prepare and cook healthy meals using fresh produce.
Researchers found a population of slow-proliferating epithelial cells in the mouse ovary's hilum region that can self-renew and form tumors. These cells were previously unknown and are now believed to be the source of ovarian stem-like cells prone to cancer.
A randomized controlled study found that computer-generated reminders significantly improved compliance with patient care guidelines in a pediatric HIV clinic in Eldoret, Kenya. The study resulted in a four-fold increase in completion of overdue clinical tasks, including laboratory tests and referrals.
A recent study found that nearly 90% of preschoolers with ADHD continued to struggle with symptoms six years after diagnosis. Children taking ADHD medication had just as severe symptoms as those who were medication-free, suggesting a need for improved treatment strategies.
Researchers at U of T have developed a new technique to boost the efficiency of solar cells by up to 35% through the use of nanoshells. This breakthrough could lead to more affordable and efficient solar power, as the technology already offers low-cost and large-scale production capabilities.
A multicenter study found that even minor weight loss is associated with worse health outcomes among patients with cardiac resynchronization therapy with defibrillator devices. Patients who lost more than 2 kilograms during the 12-month observation period had a significant increase in risk of heart failure or death.
A new clinical study, funded by the NIH, aims to discover novel biomarkers and therapeutic treatments for patients with chronic fatigue syndrome. The four-year study will use advanced neuroimaging and clinical evaluations to expand scientific understanding and improve diagnostics.
Researchers have developed a new approach to screening potential treatments for Alzheimer's disease using the C. elegans worm model. The study identified six compounds capable of alleviating tau-induced behavioral abnormalities in the worm model, as well as azaperone treatment, which can decrease abnormal tau accumulation.
A 12-week cardiac rehabilitation program reduced mortality in women with coronary artery disease by two-thirds, yet referrals and attendance among women fall short compared to men. Women who receive a referral but don't attend also have better outcomes, suggesting a referral bias towards healthier individuals.
A study by behavioral ecologist John Hoogland found that prairie dogs are more likely to disperse in the absence of nearby close kin. This unique pattern is attributed to the benefits of cooperation with close kin, including shared resources and defense against predators.
Researchers break evolutionary compartmentalization by relocating metabolic pathways to chloroplasts, enabling light-driven synthesis of natural chemicals. This advancement unlocks the production of bioactive chemicals and other valuable compounds.
Researchers at Vall d'Hebron Institute of Oncology have successfully eliminated mouse lung tumors by inhibiting the Myc protein, a key regulator of gene expression and cell growth. The study confirms that Myc-targeted therapy is a safe and effective option for treating various types of cancer, with no signs of resistance or side effects.
A study by the University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing found that hospitals with more baccalaureate-prepared nurses had lower patient mortality rates following common surgeries. Increasing the percentage of BSN-prepared nurses in hospitals could potentially save around 500 lives, according to researchers.
Research predicts 20% of Canadian Arctic glaciers will melt by end of century, causing irreparable ice loss and sea-level rise. The study's results show that climate change reinforces warming, making it highly likely that glaciers will melt at alarming rate.
Berkeley Lab researchers successfully recreated the elusive atomic collapse state in graphene using artificial nuclei, confirming relativistic quantum mechanics predictions. This breakthrough has significant implications for graphene-based electronic devices and future nanotechnology applications.
Researchers predict a 1°C decrease in temperature during the growing season and a 1°C increase after harvest due to sugarcane plantations. This seasonal fluctuation could have significant impacts on regional climate conditions.
A genetic analysis by Baylor University biologists reveals that Florida bass stocking in Texas reservoirs affects bass populations far beyond the actual stocking location. The study found Florida bass DNA in bass at all sampling locations, including sites over 50 miles upstream from the closest documented stocking location.
A study by IRB Barcelona researchers has identified a key miRNA called bantam that regulates the relationship between hormones controlling growth and sexual maturity. Reduced levels of bantam lead to increased steroid hormone levels, causing growth to stop.
Researchers at RIKEN Center for Developmental Biology successfully cloned mice multiple times using somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT) technique, overcoming previous limitations. The study published in Cell Stem Cell reveals no accumulation of genetic or epigenetic abnormalities after repeated cloning.
Research in rats reveals that sniffing behaviors convey information about an individual's social status, with dominant rats acting as primary sniffers and subordinate sniffees slowing their breath. This new form of communication allows animals to avoid conflicts and maintain social hierarchy.