The University of California, Berkeley will design, build, and operate the Ionospheric Connection Explorer (ICON) satellite to study the impact of Earth's weather on space weather. The satellite aims to improve forecasts of extreme space weather events that can disrupt GPS signals and radio communications.
A recent study by Cornell University's Food and Brand Lab found that pre-sliced fruit in school cafeterias leads to increased fruit sales and consumption, particularly among younger students. The research showed a significant increase of 73% in students who ate more than half of their apple after the introduction of fruit slicers.
A new study published in Critical Care finds that reducing movement in ICUs can decrease severe pain and serious adverse events, while increasing analgesic use. The training program implemented by the University of Montpellier Saint Eloi Hospital increased staff awareness and reduced side effects.
A recent study found that simple educational strategies targeting doctors and patients after a fracture significantly improved osteoporosis testing rates, reducing fractures by two fewer per 1,000 patients. Mail-based notice interventions were effective and cost-efficient, with projected savings of $18,000 for every 1,000 patients.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine discovered that the rat's hippocampus uses remembered spatial information to imagine routes, guiding behavior. This finding has implications for understanding memory and imagination in people with Alzheimer's disease and age-related cognitive decline.
New Johns Hopkins research finds no link between patient satisfaction scores and surgical care quality scores, but suggests that a better workplace culture for staff can improve patient satisfaction. The study emphasizes the need for better instruments to capture technical skills and medical judgment in measuring hospital quality.
A new study from USC reveals that adding social gaming elements to a behavior tracking program led participants to exercise more frequently and decrease their body-mass index. The effects were stronger in groups that started with gaming and were sustained after gaming elements were removed.
Researchers developed an efficient method of analyzing brain activity using magnetoencephalography (MEG) to detect autism in children. The approach showed significant differences in functional connectivity and background noise between autistic and non-autistic brains, with 94% accuracy.
A recent study found that zoledronic acid, a common osteoporosis drug, not only slows bone loss but also increases levels of sclerostin, a biomarker that inhibits bone formation. This suggests that combination treatments may be needed to effectively treat osteoporosis and increase bone mass.
A new study found that approximately half of Tamiflu prescriptions were unused in England during the 2009-10 influenza pandemic. The unused medication represents around 600,000 courses and a significant financial cost to the UK taxpayer.
Scientists need to find better ways to prevent sickling in red blood cells, which impairs oxygen delivery and damages blood vessel walls and organs. Anti-sickling therapies are crucial to reducing damage and improving patient outcomes.
Researchers have revised the history of large earthquakes in the area, showing that the Salt Lake City segment has been more active than previously thought. The study contributes to forecasting probabilities for future earthquakes in the Wasatch Front region.
A study found that children with autism spent significantly more time playing video games than typically developing peers, and were more likely to develop problematic gaming habits. Conversely, they spent less time on social media and more time watching TV and engaging in physical activities.
A new study finds that the US is facing a severe neurologist shortage, with a projected need for 11% more doctors to meet current needs by 2025. The demand for neurologists is expected to grow faster than the supply, with average wait times for new and follow-up visits increasing.
A new review of medications for preventing episodic migraines found that all approved drugs worked better than placebo in reducing monthly migraine attacks. However, off-label anti-epileptics and antidepressants caused the most bothersome side effects, while off-label beta-blockers and angiotensin-inhibiting drugs had the fewest.
Research published in PLOS ONE found a decrease in media coverage of aggression in ice hockey in North American newspapers between 1998-2000 and 2009-2011. The shift in focus from violence to safety rules and equipment may contribute to cultural trends in the sport, influencing attitudes towards traumatic brain injuries.
Research suggests that teenagers' brains are more sensitive to rewarding feedback from peers, changing their calculation of risk. This sensitivity is linked to the unique effect of peer influence on the developing teenage brain, with adolescents taking more risks when observed by peers.
Astronomers have uncovered a massive star factory in the universe's youth, producing stars at a rate 2,000 times that of our Milky Way. The galaxy, HFLS3, has a reservoir of gas and dust, with over 40 billion stars and 100 billion tons of gas.
Researchers found that low doses of hydrogen sulfide enhance plant health, resulting in increased crop yields nearly doubling. This could lead to improved food supplies and plentiful stock for biofuel production.
Researchers at Lund University have discovered that exosome molecular profiles reflect the aggressiveness of brain tumours, offering a new approach for diagnosis and treatment. The study's findings suggest that exosomes could serve as biomarkers to guide patient care and monitor treatment response.
Tests conducted by NIST found that portable generators retrofitted with off-the-shelf hardware emitted 90% less carbon monoxide than standard generators. The reduced emissions are expected to delay the onset and progression of CO poisoning symptoms, leading to fewer deaths and injuries.
Researchers found that combining CT imaging findings with baseline serum lactate dehydrogenase levels can accurately predict patient survival. Patients with low baseline serum LDH and evidence of tumor devascularization on their initial post-therapy CT scans are likely to have a favorable response to therapy.
Researchers discovered a naturally occurring protein that disrupts cholesterol levels in cell membranes, blocking virus entry. The findings have potential for developing anti-viral therapies targeting the endosome compartment.
A local GP intervention program has been found to positively impact the lives of women living in fear of their partner, improving their safety planning and mental health outcomes. The study, led by Associate Professor Kelsey Hegarty, tested the effectiveness of screening and brief counseling for abused women in primary care settings.
A new CU-Boulder study found that parents tend to share more bacterial communities with their family dogs than with their children. The research, which analyzed microbial samples from 60 American families including canines, highlights the impact of environmental exposure on human microbiome composition.
The completed zebrafish genome reveals 70% of human protein-coding genes have zebrafish counterparts, highlighting the model organism's potential for human disease research. The study also identifies unique features, such as high repeat content and chromosomal regions influencing sex determination.
Patients who have STEMI heart attacks while hospitalized are at a significantly higher risk of death compared to those treated outside the hospital. The survival rate for inpatients with STEMI is around 60%, while outpatients have a survival rate of over 96%.
The H5N1 vaccine candidate induced a solid immune response in all three configurations of adjuvant and route of administration, exceeding the CHMP immunogenicity criteria. The results demonstrate the potential for significant 'dose-sparing' with the intradermal delivery device.
The European Commission needs to reform its science funding programme by reducing red tape, improving data mapping and linking, promoting open data, and ending inegalitarian salary policies. The current programme aims to bring €70 billion of research funding, but reforms are necessary to unlock its full potential.
The European Union faces a significant burden of osteoporosis, with 22 million women and 5.5 million men affected. The annual economic cost of new and prior fragility fractures is €37 billion, with costs expected to increase by 25% by 2025.
Researchers at ETH Zurich have developed a new control method for quantum systems, enabling precise steering through Hilbert spaces. This breakthrough has significant implications for the development of practical quantum computers.
The DREAM Breast Cancer Prognosis Challenge successfully predicted better breast cancer progression than existing models, using genomic and clinical information from 2000 women. The winning team, Attractor Metagenes, developed a model based on 'attractor metagenes,' gene signatures that behave similarly in multiple cancer types.
Scientists at NIH and Pitt School of Medicine discovered a method to grow large numbers of stem cells by blocking CD47 membrane protein, increasing expression of four genes essential for iPS cell formation and allowing directed differentiation into various tissue types.
Researchers at the University of Toronto have recorded atomic motions in real time, revealing a glimpse into the essence of chemistry and biology. The breakthrough, described in a study published in Nature, uses ultra-bright electron sources to capture atomic motions with unprecedented clarity.
Researchers at RIKEN have identified a compound that could be used to prevent relapse in acute myeloid leukemia patients, particularly those with the FLT3-ITD mutation. The compound targets human primary AML stem cells and reduces AML cell counts in mouse models.
Researchers at MIT have found that the molecular structure of aggrecans in cartilage makes it more susceptible to damage from physical activities like running or jumping. This discovery could help develop tests to diagnose arthritis earlier and guide engineers in designing replacement cartilage.
A new EU scorecard highlights significant inequalities in osteoporosis care across European countries. Despite marked differences in fracture risk and services, approximately 57% of high-risk individuals remain untreated, with inadequate access to testing, treatment, and effective medications.
Researchers analyzed death records of 40,139 dogs and found that sterilized dogs lived 9.4 years on average compared to 7.9 years for intact dogs, primarily due to increased risk of cancer and autoimmune diseases.
Researchers at Albert Einstein College of Medicine have discovered how the SAMHD1 protein regulates HIV-1 replication in white blood cells. Phosphorylation of SAMHD1 is essential to protect macrophages from HIV infection, and maintaining this state could prevent reservoirs of HIV-1 from forming.
Researchers at Max-Planck-Gesellschaft developed a new keyboard layout called KALQ that minimizes thumb movement and places frequently used letters centrally. Trained users can achieve 37 words per minute, significantly faster than the 20 words on split QWERTY, with improved error correction methods
Researchers at UTHealth used sea snail nerve cells to demonstrate a strategy for overcoming memory deficits. By retraining the cells with optimized training schedules, they reversed memory loss and restored connection strength.
A randomized clinical trial found that HIV-infected mothers who exclusively breastfed their babies for four months had significantly lower levels of the virus in their breast milk compared to those who stopped breastfeeding earlier. The study suggests that early and frequent breastfeeding can reduce the risk of mother-to-child transmis...
A new text-mining algorithm helps identify the most relevant scientific research for a public database correlating environmental chemicals with their effects on genes and human health. The algorithm improved the process of prioritizing relevant articles by increasing productivity by 27 percent and novel data content by 100 percent.
Researchers at Columbia University developed a new computational model that uses gene signatures to predict breast cancer survival with high accuracy. The model, which won a crowd-sourced challenge, has the potential to improve diagnostic and prognostic products for multiple types of cancer.
Researchers have developed a spray-on mixture of carbon nanotubes and ceramic that has unprecedented ability to resist damage while absorbing laser light. The composite absorbs 97.5% of the light and tolerates 15 kilowatts of laser power per square centimeter for 10 seconds.
The coelacanth genome provides valuable clues for biologists studying the evolution of vertebrates, with key genes involved in immunity, nitrogen excretion, and limb development implicated in evolutionary transitions. The study offers a comprehensive look at the coelacanth's place in our evolutionary history.
A study by Dr. Michael Cusimano found that newspapers have increased coverage of concussions in ice hockey, including discussions on the need for rule changes and player safety. However, many reports still perpetuate a culture that trivializes head injuries and views them as an occupational risk.
A team of astronomers has discovered a massive galaxy producing stars at an unprecedented rate of 2,000 times greater than the Milky Way. This 'maximum-starburst' galaxy, called HFLS3, is the earliest known starburst galaxy, dating back to 880 million years after the Big Bang.
Researchers have generated mutations in almost 40% of zebrafish genes, creating a resource for understanding physical and biochemical consequences of genetic variation. The study aims to reveal the function of each gene in zebrafish to shed light on human disease.
A study by researchers at Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center found that fewer than 8% of breast cancer survivors met national exercise guidelines over a 10-year period. Despite benefits such as reduced mortality and improved quality of life, many survivors struggle to maintain adequate physical activity.
Researchers have found that secretions from the reproductive tract contribute to both ovulation and sperm function, and that a specific hormone receptor gene controls this process. The study suggests that a similar mechanism may exist in mammals, providing new insights into the mechanisms of ovulation.
New York City tests suggest using repeaters to improve wireless emergency safety equipment in underground structures and high-rise buildings. The findings support NIST's next round of test methods for reliable voice radio and emergency beacon operations.
The study found that lymph node volumes were estimated at 30% lower in low-dose scans compared to high-dose scans. Lung nodule volume was also significantly affected, with 46% lower volumes in low-dose scans.
A new Mayo Clinic survey reveals that support for living and deceased organ donation is increasing. Eighty-four percent would consider donating a kidney to a close friend or family member, while 49% would donate to someone they've never met.
Research by Ha and colleagues found that teens' likelihood to break up is independent of how well they handle conflicts, contradicting previous studies on adult relationships. The authors suggest differences in relationship goals among younger teen couples may be the reason for this finding.
Researchers have developed a set of molecular assays that can diagnose and subtype influenza viruses rapidly, without the need for additional equipment. The assays can detect major resistance mutations to oseltamivir and provide information on viral load and antiviral susceptibility within one working day.
Researchers at A*STAR's Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology have decoded the genome of the African coelacanth, revealing genetic changes that enabled aquatic animals to transition to life on land. The study provides valuable insights into the evolutionary history of the species and its adaptations.
Professor Maria Luisa Brandi was awarded the prestigious ESCEO-IOF Servier Pierre D. Delmas Prize for her major scientific contributions to bone and mineral diseases. She is a renowned researcher with numerous patents and publications, recognized nationally and internationally.
A recent study found that long-term cortisol exposure in seniors is associated with an increased risk of heart disease and stroke. The study used scalp hair analysis to measure cortisol levels over a three-month period, revealing a clear link between chronically elevated cortisol levels and cardiovascular disease.
A Moffitt Cancer Center study found that minority groups, including blacks, Asians, and Hispanics, hold differing beliefs about cancer prevention and feel they are less likely to get cancer. The researchers concluded that more culturally relevant information is needed to reach these populations.
Researchers have discovered a target for Schmallenberg virus treatment by identifying the nucleocapsid protein as a key building block that can be blocked to kill the virus. The study, published in Nucleic Acids Research, provides insight into the structure and function of the protein.
Researchers at the University of Alberta have identified genes responsible for DNA repair and cell division in cancer cells, which can be targeted by caffeine. The study used fruit flies with a mutant gene to find new ways to exploit caffeine's lethal effects on cancer cells.
The coelacanth genome confirms genes evolve more slowly than in other organisms, suggesting a specialized environment has led to minimal change. The study also sheds light on the water-to-land transition, identifying key genetic regions associated with tetrapod innovations and immune system adaptations.
Researchers found that bear baiting in Wisconsin, which starts earlier and lasts longer, increases the likelihood of encounters between wolves and hunting dogs. In contrast, Michigan's regulations on bear baiting may help reduce wolf attacks on dogs. Compensation for dog owners killed by wolves varies between states.
A new study from the University of Michigan and VA Ann Arbor Healthcare System found that group mindfulness activities significantly reduced PTSD symptoms in veterans. Mindfulness-based cognitive therapy combines meditation, acceptance, and awareness to help individuals manage traumatic thoughts and emotions.
Researchers found a 23% total radiation dose reduction in abdominal CT exams using iterative reconstruction and longitudinal dose modulation. This translates to between 1,000 and 3,000 fewer radiation-induced cancers annually, based on Hiroshima and Nagasaki survivor assumptions.
University of Texas Medical Branch researchers have identified a protein called Epac1 that blocks leptin's activity in the brain. Blocking this protein can increase leptin sensitivity and lead to lower body weight, body fat percentage, blood plasma leptin levels, and improved glucose tolerance.
A new study suggests that company social events can have a negative impact on building relationships between workers of different racial backgrounds. Researchers found that social interaction was less likely to help workers feel closer to their colleagues when they were dissimilar from the majority.
A specific gene called Meis1 regulates the heart's ability to regenerate after injuries. The study found that deleting this gene extended the proliferation period in newborn mice and re-activated regeneration in adult mouse hearts without harming cardiac functions.
A Michigan State University analysis found that federally funded safety-net clinics lag behind in controlling high blood pressure among low-income patients. Only 38% of hypertensive patients had their blood pressure under control at a mid-Michigan safety-net clinic, with diabetes patients facing even greater challenges.
A team of researchers tracked the migration patterns of the Asian subspecies of great bustards, which travel over 2,000 miles between their breeding grounds in Mongolia and wintering grounds in China. The study highlights the challenges faced by conservationists, including poaching, habitat destruction, and climate change.
New research indicates that reducing emissions of black carbon, methane, and other pollutants can significantly slow sea level rise. The study found that cuts in these four heat-trapping pollutants could temporarily forestall the rate of sea level rise by roughly 25 to 50 percent.
Researchers found that individuals from stigmatized groups adopt different strategies to manage prejudice and counteract stereotypes. Overweight participants prioritized wearing clean clothes to minimize disgust-based emotion, while Black men prioritized smiling to 'disarm' concerns about violence.
A novel study found that increased brain activity in reward regions predicts future substance use onset among initially healthy weight adolescents. Even a limited history of substance use was related to less responsivity in the reward circuitry, suggesting a potential contributing factor to the escalating spiral of drug use.
Researchers at The Jackson Laboratory identified a molecule that prevents repair of some cancer cells, providing a potential new approach to cancer treatment. The molecule, DIDS, blocks the DNA repair action in chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), causing cancer cells to die while leaving healthy cells unaffected.
Researchers at VCU Massey Cancer Center have developed a novel drug combination therapy that targets the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway in leukemia cells, leading to profound cell death. The therapy combines ABT-737 and BEZ235, which inhibit pro-survival proteins and reduce apoptosis in cancer cells.
A team of Australian engineers at the University of New South Wales has demonstrated a functional quantum bit based on the nucleus of a single atom in silicon. The device operates with high accuracy and could revolutionize data processing in ultra-powerful quantum computers.
Researchers tracked 20 mountain lions over six years, finding that habitat fragmentation affects pumas' physiology, behavior, and ecology. The study helps identify corridors where pumas travel between high-quality habitats, aiding conservation efforts in human-dominated landscapes.
Researchers at Duke University Medical Center found that close family members of people with Alzheimer's disease are more likely to develop silent buildup of brain plaques associated with the disease. The study suggests unidentified genetic factors may influence the development of Alzheimer's before dementia onset.
Dr. Mary Bouxsein has been recognized with the ESCEO-IOF Herbert Fleisch Medal for her outstanding contributions to understanding skeletal fragility through biomechanics. Her work focuses on predicting fracture risk using novel non-invasive imaging techniques.