Tomatoes grown on organic farms have higher levels of sugars, vitamin C and antioxidants compared to conventional farming methods. This increase in bioactive compounds is linked to the stressful growth conditions experienced by organic tomatoes.
Decision makers who feel powerful are more likely to make decisions that benefit their future selves. Researchers found that power can embolden decision makers and lead to better long-term choices. Power appears to foster saving behavior by putting people in touch with their future selves.
A new study reveals that slow-firing neurons are essential for higher-order thinking and mental representations, which are compromised in diseases like schizophrenia and Alzheimer's. The research identifies NMDA-NR2B receptors as key regulators of neuronal firing.
The National Institutes of Health is launching a $700 million project to develop a common data-sharing framework for biomedical research. This framework aims to integrate millions of gigabytes of data from various disciplines, enabling researchers to tap into a gold mine of information and improve disease treatment and cure rates.
Researchers are conducting an early-stage human clinical trial of two related candidate vaccines to prevent infection with Shigella bacteria, which causes diarrheal illness particularly among children. The Phase I trial aims to evaluate the vaccines for safety and immune response induction in healthy adults.
Researchers found that fragile X syndrome alters signaling in brain cells, leading to prolonged electrical surges and potential attention problems. Restoring the gene FMRP restored normal signaling.
Researchers found that children with brain lesions use gestures similar to typically developing children to convey simple sentences. They also discovered that producing complex sentences across gesture and speech is delayed in children with larger brain lesions.
Scientists at Georgia Institute of Technology explore an alternate theory for RNA origin, finding molecules that spontaneously assemble into gene-length linear stacks in water. The discovery suggests proto-RNA bases could have formed the first genetic material.
Researchers have developed an injectable hydrogel that can repair damaged cardiac tissue and promote new cell growth after a heart attack. The gel forms a scaffold, encouraging the heart to rebuild itself without triggering adverse immune responses.
A team of doctors and nurses at Johns Hopkins Hospital implemented interventions to improve patient sleep quality, reducing delirium by 54% in ICU patients. The study suggests that simple measures can have a significant impact on patient outcomes and recovery from intensive care.
Scientists at Pacific Northwest National Laboratory have developed a rapid and accurate vapor detection method that identifies minute traces of explosives on luggage, cargo or travelers. The system, which 'sniffs' for explosive vapors, has been demonstrated to detect low-volatility compounds like RDX at levels below parts-per-trillion.
Researchers explore nano-channels to selectively unknnot DNA, with potential applications in sequencing and understanding cell metabolism. The study reveals varying channel widths can drastically change DNA knot complexity.
New findings from a 10-year project led by Professor Derek Abbott reveal that the US Federalist Papers are written by Alexander Hamilton, James Madison, and John Jay with some collaboration. The Letter to the Hebrews is attributed to Saint Paul but shares similarities with other authors like Luke and Barnabas.
A giant sunspot formed on the sun's surface over Feb. 19-20, 2013, with rapid growth to six Earth diameters across in under 48 hours. The spot's delta region exhibited unstable magnetic fields, potentially leading to solar flares.
Cyclone Haruna strengthened into a cyclone with a wide-eyed eye visible on NASA's Aqua satellite. Heavy rainfall was detected by TRMM satellite, with cloud top temperatures colder than -63F (-52C). The storm is expected to make a brief landfall near Androka in Madagascar as it moves southeast into the southern Indian Ocean.
Researchers discovered that ancient sea anemones use the same genes to form their heads as humans and other animals, providing insight into brain evolution. The study found that these 'head genes' control development of sensory centers in both sea anemones and higher animals.
Researchers have discovered how methylene blue modifies tau proteins, which aggregate in Alzheimer's disease. The study reveals that methylene blue deactivates molecular residues promoting bonding and acts as a spacer to keep proteins apart, leading to potential treatment strategies.
Researchers used the Chemical Dynamics Beamline at Berkeley Lab to examine how photochemistry determines isotope ratios in the solar system. They found that mass-independent processes, such as chemical reactions, could explain differences between Earth and meteorites/solar system elements.
A study published in Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics found a significant association between high glycemic index diets and dairy consumption with acne. Medical nutrition therapy is recommended as an adjunct treatment for acne treatment. The study suggests that diet may influence or aggravate acne, rather than causing it.
A study on oceanic whitetip sharks reveals they spend most of their time in Bahamian waters but roam long distances, highlighting the need for international conservation measures. The research provides key findings for protecting this species, which is listed as Critically Endangered globally.
Scientists at McGill University and the Federal University of Sao Paulo have identified osteopontin as a key player in X-linked hypophosphatemia (XLH), a rare bone disease characterized by soft bones and tooth abnormalities. This discovery may lead to the development of an enzyme-replacement therapy to treat XLH patients.
Bioethicists argue that traditional informed consent models do not translate well to online health research, requiring a more collaborative approach to build trust with individuals whose information is collected. Transparent disclosure of research uses is also crucial.
Researchers at Ruhr-University Bochum develop novel composite materials to enhance the degradation rate of photocatalysts. The goal is to implement these photocatalysts into a liquid paint for easy coating on photoreactors, enabling efficient and cost-effective water decontamination in remote areas.
A new Pitt study found that generic drug coverage is cost-effective compared to no coverage for schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. Generic coverage improved health outcomes and reduced medical costs, with savings of $570-$1,312 per year.
A new model predicts when consumers use media and even when they use two or more at a time, leading to improved ad buying accuracy. The study finds that people spend about 35% of their time consuming media, with TV being the most popular outlet.
A new drug combination has shown promise in preventing head and neck cancer in high-risk patients. The combination of erlotinib and celecoxib was found to be more effective in inhibiting the growth of human SCCHN cell lines compared to either drug alone.
Researchers are using engineering control theory to create complex brain models that can simulate neurological diseases. By simplifying these models and fusing them with real system measurements, they aim to develop more accurate treatments for conditions such as epilepsy and Parkinson's disease.
The researchers developed a new type of nanoscale structure that combines one-dimensional and two-dimensional structures, creating a material with large surface area and efficient charge transfer. This 3D structure holds promise for developing next-generation sensors, photodetectors, solar cells, and energy storage technologies.
Researchers at Arizona State University's Biodesign Institute are using the ISS to study the effects of microgravity on disease-causing organisms. Their findings indicate that spaceflight can increase the virulence of pathogens like Salmonella, while also altering gene expression and pathogenesis-related responses in other microorganisms.
Researchers will explore yielding more high-quality organic rice using environmentally friendly methods. The studies aim to improve soil quality, reduce disease loss and increase yield and milling quality for the crop.
Northwestern University researchers found that consistent encoding of sound undergirds the reading process, with unstable representation of sound associated with poorer readers. The study suggests that auditory training can improve response consistency and potentially alleviate dyslexia.
Researchers combined police reports, drug offenses, and alcohol availability data to identify 'hot spots' of violence. The analysis showed that types and densities of alcohol outlets were directly related to violent crimes, despite typical demographic factors.
A novel global trading system based on cost-effectiveness of health interventions is proposed to help fund global health. The system, which exchanges DALY credits, aims to incentivize high-income countries to scale up their health commitments and meet the Millennium Development Goals.
The team's detailed study reveals that clusters do not form a clearly defined intermediate step in the growth process, but instead are part of a gradual growth process. This new understanding completes the theory by describing alternative pathways for crystal formation.
Researchers from Lund University have identified a single gene mutation that produces an entirely new scent in moths. This breakthrough could lead to more efficient and environmentally friendly pest control methods.
Tropical Storm Haruna formed on Feb. 19 after four days of organization, with maximum sustained winds near 35 knots. NASA satellites provided visible and infrared imagery that helped forecasters track the system's development.
Researchers found that identical genetic changes occurred between independently evolving E. coli populations, driven by negative frequency dependence and natural selection. This discovery challenges traditional views of evolution and species diversity.
A study in Spine found little to no evidence of worsening degeneration over time in patients with degenerative cervical spine disease. For many patients, observation may be a better choice than surgery, as the condition appears to be relatively stable at medium-term follow-up.
The PEV Scorecard helps communities evaluate their readiness for plug-in electric vehicle deployment, providing feedback and guidance for improvement. The tool offers a comprehensive assessment of charging infrastructure, planning, regulations, and support services.
Researchers describe the use of 5-aminolevulinic acid (5-ALA) fluorescence to guide resection of recurrent glioblastoma multiforme, revealing a pathway of tumor spread through brain regions inaccessible to MRI. This technique increases the success of achieving maximum resection.
A University of Colorado Cancer Center review found that resistant starch kills pre-cancerous cells and reduces inflammation, promoting the growth of good bugs in the bowel. Consuming resistant starch, found in legumes, green bananas, and starchy products, may also have implications for breast cancer prevention.
A new processor chip developed at MIT can convert amateur smartphone photos into professional-looking images in a fraction of a second. The chip uses a bilateral grid method to organize and store data, allowing it to avoid blurring across edges while enhancing lighting in dark scenes.
Researchers at UCLA have developed a new technique to fabricate micro-scale graphene-based supercapacitors, which can charge and discharge faster than standard batteries. The method uses a DVD burner to create the devices, making them more affordable and scalable.
Researchers aim to mimic reptiles' ability to increase locomotion efficiency and frogs' high propulsion. They investigate drinking strategies of carnivorous animals like cats and dogs to develop bio-inspired systems.
A UCLA study found a link between untreated depression and decreased effectiveness of the shingles vaccine in older adults. Patients with depression showed a weaker immune response to the varicella-zoster virus, making them less responsive to the vaccine.
Biologists at the University of Washington have found that mutant bacteria can escape extinction when environmental conditions worsen gradually or moderately. The study shows that 'relay team' of mutations emerging under these conditions provides protection against extreme stress, increasing chances of survival.
Research finds fibromyalgia is a spectrum disorder with nearly 40% of patients meeting criteria for physical symptom disorder. The prevalence is 2.1%, higher in women than men.
Researchers recommend doubling US energy productivity by 2030 through investments in efficiency concepts, modernizing infrastructure, and educating consumers. This can create a million new jobs, save households $1,000/year, and reduce carbon-dioxide emissions by one-third.
A growing health threat across low-income and middle-income countries, childhood cancer claims over 100,000 lives of children under 15 annually. Poor treatment access, lack of awareness, and limited healthcare infrastructure hinder effective care, emphasizing the need for investment in healthcare systems and capacity.
MIT researchers have developed a new method to study droplet adhesion using a modified scanning electron microscope. They found that the angle of a droplet's leading and trailing edges relative to a surface plays a crucial role in determining whether it sticks, and that surface texture on rough surfaces can either improve or worsen adh...
Tropical Depression 02W formed in the northwestern Pacific Ocean and is currently soaking provinces in Mindanao and Palawan. The storm's low-level circulation center appears disorganized, but forecasters predict it will become more organized once it moves into the South China Sea.
A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials found that hydroxyethyl starch was associated with a significant increased risk of death, acute kidney injury, and renal replacement therapy. The study excluded studies conducted by an investigator whose research was retracted due to scientific misconduct.
Researchers found that participants are conscious of substituting harder questions with easier ones, but still uncertain about their answers. This suggests they are not 'happy fools' who blindly answer incorrectly.
Researchers found drastic changes to marine communities due to higher temperatures and lower oxygen levels, leading to potential extinction of marine life. The study mirrors current climate predictions over the next century, highlighting the need for urgent action.
A recent study published in the journal Organization argues that the private security industry lacks transparency and accountability, leading to hidden costs of war. The industry's global worth is estimated to be billions of pounds, yet its activities are often shrouded in secrecy, hindering public debate.
A large study found that exposure to fine particulate matter (PM2.5) from air pollution is associated with increased deaths among patients who have had a heart attack. The study, published in the European Heart Journal, suggests that higher levels of PM2.5 are linked to greater mortality rates.
Scientists have developed wavelength-modulated Raman spectroscopy to overcome challenges in using the method in a clinical setting. The technique enables clean extraction of Raman signals even with high auto-fluorescence backgrounds and ambient light.
Researchers at Stanford University have developed a technique to observe hundreds of neurons firing in the brain of a live mouse in real-time. The tool uses fluorescent protein and calcium ions to decipher patterns in brain activity, offering insights into long-term information storage and spatial memory.
A study found that genetic variation within a single tree allows it to produce branches with leaves resistant to herbivory, while others are more susceptible. The variations in genes related to terpene production influence the leaves' edibility.
A new study published in the Proceedings of the Royal Society of London found that plant communities in the Arctic are more resilient to climate change when populations of caribou and musk ox remain intact. The research suggests that these large herbivores maintain plant species diversity, while warming reduces it.