A new study by Grand Valley State University researchers found that NHL teams tend to favor older players, resulting in underestimating the potential of younger players. The study shows that players born between July and December have a higher success rate than those born in the first three months of the year.
A new study reveals that certain viruses, known as bacteriophages, can hijack the immune systems of bacteria to overcome their defenses. This discovery has significant implications for phage therapy, which could potentially treat bacterial infections resistant to antibiotics.
Researchers demonstrate acceleration of electrons by a laser in free space, a significant breakthrough with implications for fusion as a new energy source. The capture-acceleration scenario, proposed by Yu-kun Ho's group, explains how a tightly focused laser can create a channel for electrons to receive energy gain.
Computer scientists from Saarbrücken have developed a new method to scan and monitor Android apps for security-critical functions, allowing users to revoke or grant privileges. The method, known as SRT Appguard, provides real-time policy enforcement for third-party applications and protects user privacy.
Research from Northwestern University and Redeemer University College found that trusting partners remember transgressions as less severe, while low-trust partners recall them as more severe. This distorted memory affects how individuals think about their partner and relationship.
Research found that surviving siblings are more likely to experience a heart attack years after their sibling's death. The risk is higher for women, who face a 25% increased likelihood of heart attack within four to six and a half years after bereavement.
Researchers at Stanford University School of Medicine have identified a new way to block the Hedgehog pathway in skin cancers, which become resistant to treatment. The discovery offers a promising new approach for treating basal cell carcinoma and potentially improving patient outcomes.
Researchers at the University of Michigan are studying how exercise affects lean and obese rats to better understand insulin resistance and muscle glucose uptake. By comparing responses in both groups, they aim to develop more effective treatments for improving health across different populations.
Astronomers have measured the spin rate of a supermassive black hole, providing insights into the galaxy's evolution. The black hole's spin is linked to its accretion disk and can offer clues about the galaxy's past.
A pilot study found six compounds in the breath that increase following stressful mental arithmetic exercises, which may lead to a rapid stress detector. The study's findings are promising but need to be scaled-up with more people and settings before concrete conclusions can be made.
Researchers are working to improve study design and sample collection to better understand the composition and effects of the gut microbiota. The American Gastroenterological Association hosted a World Summit on Gut Microbiota For Health, where experts discussed future research directions.
A line of special liver cells called PICM-19 has the potential to perform many of the same functions as a human liver. The immortal cell line can be used to study various diseases, including liver cancers and cystic fibrosis, and may enable the development of artificial liver devices.
Professor Kevin Resch, a University of Waterloo researcher, has been awarded a $500,000 fellowship to focus on his work in quantum information science. His research could lead to breakthroughs in computing, communications, and cryptography.
Researchers at Duke University found that silver nanoparticles can have adverse effects on plants and microorganisms in low doses, leading to reduced biomass and altered enzyme activity. The study's findings highlight the need for further research into the environmental impact of these particles.
A team of scientists proposes a new system for classifying units of the Geological Time Scale, resolving the debate between single-time and dual-time hierarchies. The proposed realignment maintains both parallel sets of units, allowing for flexibility in choosing one or the other as needed.
Astronomers detect two Type 1a supernovae, designated Supernova 2013X and Supernova 2012ha, which provide valuable information for measuring cosmic distances. The explosions occurred hundreds of millions of years ago and have traveled to Earth, offering insights into the expansion of the universe.
Protection of marine areas from fishing significantly increases fish density and biomass. Even partial protection yields a 50% increase in biomass for target species like lobsters and scallops. However, the success of marine protection depends on its size and management style.
A UK study found that every degree fall in winter air temperature corresponds to a 1.3% drop in ambulance response time. The research analyzed data from Birmingham over five years and showed that extreme weather conditions significantly affected daily ambulance call-outs and response times.
Two high-profile fraud cases in photography have led to millions of dollars in settlements, fueling a revolution in photo conservation research. The cases, which involved fake and altered images, prompted researchers to develop new techniques for conserving and authenticating photographs.
A large-scale genetic study has identified four shared genetic risk loci across five major psychiatric disorders, including bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. The findings suggest that a new classification system based on underlying causes may be possible in the future.
A new UCSF study reveals large price swings in patient charges for the 10 most common outpatient conditions in emergency rooms across the country. The median charge for total outpatient conditions was $1,233, with some patients facing bills of $4 to $24,110.
Researchers from Basque Country describe two new species of Hydnum mushroom, Hydnum ovoideisporum and Hydnum vesterholtii, with distinct ovoid spores and ecological characteristics. The study confirms high genetic diversity among the genus, shedding light on their distribution and ecology.
A tablet-based experiment found that subconcussive head impacts in soccer can cause changes in performance on certain cognitive tasks, particularly those requiring voluntary responses. High school female soccer players were significantly slower than non-players when pointing away from a target.
A recent UEF study reveals that high cell sugar concentrations boost hyaluronan production, which can fuel cancer growth. Regulating hyaluronan levels may hold the key to preventing cancer progression.
The University of Nottingham will lead two innovative manufacturing centres, one in food production and the other in medical devices, with a focus on sustainable food production and cost-effective medical device manufacturing. The £45 million package of investment aims to drive growth and keep the UK ahead in the global race.
A new study published in PLOS ONE finds rapid and point-of-care tests for syphilis are as accurate as conventional laboratory tests, making them a viable solution for resource-limited settings. The findings have major worldwide implications for populations living in rural areas with limited access to healthcare.
Researchers identified a molecule called lipoxin A4 that plays a crucial role in resolving airway inflammation in asthma. This discovery provides new direction for developing next-generation asthma therapies to decrease chronic inflammation.
A researcher at North Carolina State University has created a more efficient method for producing high-density ceramic materials. The new technique, known as selective-melt sintering, allows for the creation of ceramics with no porosity and increased strength in just under a second.
Researchers developed an Adaptation for Conservation Targets (ACT) framework to assess climate change impacts on natural resources. The framework enables scientists and managers to work together to adjust management actions and address the 'What do we do about it?' question.
Researchers analyzed EEGs from autistic children and found a structural difference in brain connections, including increased short-range and decreased long-range connections. This pattern may underlie autism's classic cognitive profile of focused tasks but poor integration across brain areas.
A new genetic analysis of human lice from around the world sheds light on their evolution, disease transmission, and resistance to insecticides. The study's findings suggest that lice can be used as a tool to understand human migration patterns and test ideas about human evolution.
Researchers at the University of Southampton have identified a potential new target for meningitis B vaccination, offering hope for universal protection. The discovery focuses on the Adhesin Complex Protein (ACP), which stimulates the production of antibodies that kill bacteria, providing protection against multiple MenB strains.
A new study investigates the connection between amphibian social habits and a fungus called Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis, which causes Chytridiomycosis. The researchers aim to understand how behavior affects the spread of the disease in California's slender salamander populations.
University of Toronto researchers dominated eight prize categories in this year's Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC) awards. A total of nine U of T researchers won honours, including Stephen Cook receiving the Gerhard Herzberg Canada Gold Medal for Science and Engineering.
Researchers at Rice University have developed a nanotube-based photodetector that can detect light across the visible and infrared spectrum. The device, made from extra-long carbon nanotubes, promises to make possible new optoelectronic devices, solar cells, and specialized cameras.
A study found that even organic foods not stored, prepared, or cooked in plastic containers can contain phthalates and bisphenol A. High levels of these chemicals were detected in dairy products, spices, and children's bodies.
Researchers at Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center successfully infused large numbers of donor T-cells specific for the Wilm's Tumor Antigen 1 (WT1) to prolong survival in high-risk leukemia patients. The treatment showed improved anti-leukemic activity and reduced graft-vs.-host-disease.
Researchers found that patients with metastatic gastric cancer who underwent both surgery and radiation had better survival rates than those receiving one or no treatment. Radiation therapy also showed promise in reducing symptoms such as pain, obstruction, and bleeding from gastric tumors.
A Wayne State University study found seasonal fluctuations in blood lead levels among children are linked to resuspended dust contaminated with lead. The research, based on nine years of data from over 367,000 children, highlights the need for improved controls to prevent lead exposure.
Research suggests that older people who expect a bleak future are more likely to take precautions to maintain health and safety, leading to better outcomes. Meanwhile, younger individuals tend to have a brighter outlook but may face greater risks of disabilities and death.
Research published in PLOS ONE found that higher indoor humidity levels can significantly reduce the infectivity of influenza virus particles. Indoor humidity above 40% is essential to inactivate flu virus particles, with most inactivation occurring within the first 15 minutes, reducing viral particle infectivity by up to 86%.
Friedreich's Ataxia, a rare genetic disorder, imposes significant annual costs of £11,000 to £19,000 on individuals. The study emphasizes the need for tailored resource allocation to maximize quality of life while minimizing its impact.
A study of over 40,000 Kaiser Permanente patients found no increased risk of infection or complications following total knee replacement (TKR) for those with diabetes. However, patients with uncontrolled diabetes were more likely to be obese and have severe comorbidities.
Researchers use small angle neutron scattering to study ion adsorption in pores of different sizes, understanding how factors like pore size and electrolyte properties affect ion concentration. The technique provides new insights into optimizing energy storage and water desalination systems.
Scientists report new estimates that downgrade additional land available for biofuel production by nearly 80%. The revised estimates suggest 140 million-2.6 billion acres of land can be cultivated for biofuels, compared to previous estimates of 800 million-3.5 billion acres.
The Aquarius instrument captures the first full year of surface salinity data, revealing rapid evolutions of salt patterns in the tropics. Salinity variations drive ocean circulation and provide valuable insights into global climate change.
A new Cochrane systematic review finds starch-based IV fluids used by the NHS cause unnecessary deaths. Researchers conclude that these fluids are more expensive than saline-based crystalloid fluids and increase the risk of death.
A study at the University of Chicago shows that birds' brains coordinate physical actions and brain activity to produce complex movements, similar to how humans govern skilled performance. The research may lead to new ways of understanding human speech production and other complex movements.
Researchers developed a genetically modified protein that reverses vitiligo in mice and shows similar effects on human skin tissue samples. The modified protein, called mutant HSP70i, supplants normal HSP70i, thereby reversing the autoimmune response that causes vitiligo.
Researchers have achieved a major advance in understanding genetic information transcription from DNA to RNA, illuminating critical molecular interactions during the step-by-step process. The study provides new insights into how proteins work together to ensure accurate loading of DNA into Pol II at the start of a gene sequence.
Researchers found that reintroducing normal microbial diversity can eliminate vancomycin-resistant enterococci (VRE) from the intestinal tracts of mice and potentially humans. The study suggests that certain bacterial species, such as Barnesiella, play a key role in preventing colonization by VRE.
A NIH-funded study identifies fundamental math skills needed for functioning in adult life, including number system knowledge. Children who failed to acquire these basic math skills by first grade scored far behind peers by seventh grade on a test of mathematical abilities.
Researchers at Fox Chase Cancer Center found that two antagonistic proteins help keep leukemia at bay by maintaining balance in stem cell production. The study suggests that new compounds could fight cancer by targeting the pathways responsible for regulating these proteins.
VitaThreads, a WPI startup developing biopolymer microthreads for wound healing and tissue regeneration, has made it to the final four in the Association of University Technology Managers' international business plan contest. The company will present its business plan on March 1 in San Antonio, Texas.
New research investigates how social information processing patterns, urgency, and rumination contribute to adolescent mental health disorders. The studies found that Fast Track intervention improved antisocial behavior in youth, while urgency levels predicted depression, and individual differences in distraction shared genetic sources...
Two new species of gorgonian inhabiting barnacles have been found in São Tomé and Príncipe, demonstrating a unique ability to recognize and choose a preferred host. The high degree of symbiotic relationship is believed to be mediated by pheromones, allowing barnacle larvae to determine where to settle.
A national study found same-sex couples who cohabitate have poorer health than their heterosexual married counterparts, despite potential benefits from marriage such as partner insurance and social support. The research may suggest that legalizing same-sex marriage could positively impact the health of these individuals.
Researchers at Case Western Reserve University have validated a questionnaire to assess youth participation in Alcoholics Anonymous (AA)-related helping activities. The Service to Others in Sobriety (SOS) questionnaire shows promise in identifying youths at risk of relapse and promoting recovery.
A novel fabrication technique called selective area atomic layer deposition (ALD) developed by Brian Willis could vastly improve the efficiency of solar rectenna arrays. Rectennas can harness more than 70% of the sun's electromagnetic radiation, converting it into usable electric power.
Bearded capuchin monkeys deliberately place palm nuts in a stable position to crack them open, revealing their capacity for tactile strategy. The researchers found that the monkeys' tool-use skills improved with experience, as they learned to optimize the placement of the nut based on its shape.