Tropical Storm Erin is intensifying in the eastern Atlantic due to strong thunderstorms and a 'hot tower' in its center, reaching maximum sustained winds near 40 mph. Research shows tropical cyclones with hot towers are more likely to intensify.
A new Northwestern University study has found that high financial debt is associated with higher diastolic blood pressure and poorer self-reported general and mental health in young adults. Individuals with high debt reported higher levels of perceived stress and depressive symptoms, as well as worse self-reported general health.
HZDR physicists offer new explanation for magnetic field-induced turbulences within 'dead zones,' enabling compact object formation. This breakthrough sheds light on the role of magnetic fields in planetary system formation.
Researchers have identified muscle cells as the primary source of positional control in regenerating planarians, enabling them to respond to wounds and regenerate missing tissues. This discovery opens new avenues for understanding regeneration and could potentially inform treatments for human injuries and diseases.
Dr. Deborah T. Gold, a renowned gerontologist, has been awarded the GSA's 2013 Distinguished Mentorship in Gerontology Award for her significant impact on the field. She is recognized for mentoring dozens of students who have gone on to take prominent roles in gerontology.
Researchers at Umeå University created graphene nanoscrolls with high efficiency by decorating iron oxide nanoparticles. The material shows promising properties as electrodes in Li-ion batteries due to its magnetic interaction and nitrogen defects.
A new study from the University of Michigan Comprehensive Cancer Center found that nearly 20% of women did not believe their breast cancer risk, citing concerns about family history and personal health habits. The study highlights the need for improved communication and understanding of risk information to make informed medical decisions.
Scientists sequenced entire genomes of high-altitude individuals and found 11 regions with significant differences between those with chronic mountain sickness and healthy controls. The study identified two genes, SENP1 and ANP32D, which were expressed more in individuals with the condition in response to low oxygen levels.
A new study estimates the average cost per case of drug-resistant TB in the EU, revealing significant economic burden and support for investing in more effective vaccines. The study found that the costs of treating MDR-TB and XDR-TB cases exceed €170,000 and €170,000 respectively.
A study found that dominant male turkeys express genes more like males and less like females, leading to increased attractiveness. Researchers suggest a similar pattern may exist in females, with more attractive women exhibiting higher female gene expression.
NASA satellite data revealed that Ex-Tropical Storm Utor still had a circulation after making landfall in southern China. The storm was responsible for one death and five missing persons as of August 15.
A Duke University-led study found that elements sulfur, carbon, and strontium have unique isotopic fingerprints, enabling scientists to quantify mountaintop mining's contribution to water pollution. These tracers will help distinguish between contamination from mountaintop mining and other sources.
Researchers at UC Riverside have discovered a transposon that benefits its host organisms by enhancing the immunity of plants against a pathogenic microorganism. The COPIA-R7 transposon interferes with the epigenetic code of the RPP7 gene, promoting activity and adjusting the plant's immune response.
A Florida State University researcher is studying how estrogen and progesterone impact the antidepressant effects of ketamine, which has shown promise in treating depression. The goal is to find a safer treatment for men, who require higher doses, while minimizing side effects.
Researchers found that toll-like receptor 4 is activated by fibrinogen cleavage products, which are generated by proteinase enzymes. This activation leads to the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and the recruitment of immune cells to the airways, resulting in asthma-like symptoms.
A recent clinical trial found that patients with new-onset type 1 diabetes treated with teplizumab exhibit greater preservation of C-peptide, a biomarker of islet cell function. Further analysis identified a discrete subset of treatment responders who demonstrated especially robust responses.
Scientists have identified a key enzyme that enables simple neurons in worms to transform into more elaborate shapes under stress, which may hold clues for developing drugs to treat severe anxiety disorders. The study also found that these transformed worms become highly resistant to stress and can survive extreme conditions.
Researchers discovered that sympathetic neurons communicate with pancreatic islet cells through norepinephrine, influencing their development and function. The study found deformities in the architecture of pancreatic islet cells and defects in insulin secretion and glucose metabolism in mutant mice.
Researchers found increased expression of interleukin-33 (IL-33) in human airways, linked to mucus production and other genes implicated in COPD. A mouse model also showed IL-33-producing epithelial progenitor cells induced by viral infection, suggesting potential therapeutic strategies.
A study analyzing three decades of British 'family annihilator' cases reveals four new types of male-dominated family killers, each with unique characteristics and motivations. The study found that August was the most common month for killings to take place, and stabbings were the most common murder method.
Aalto University researchers have measured entropy production of electrons in a dual temperature system, revealing a connection between two definitions of entropy and significant implications for future nanoelectronic devices. The study used conductors at different temperatures to measure electronic entropy production according to both...
Researchers demonstrated that using a continuum-based approach can explain the dynamics of liquid metal particles on substrates at nanoscales. The work has implications for self- and directed-assembly of metal nanoparticles on surfaces, particularly in solar cell devices.
Parmelee is recognized for her innovative contributions to gerontological treatment, practice, or service, particularly in the areas of pain management and caregiving. She has shaped the fields of gerontology, psychology, and medicine through her research on chronic pain and mental health.
A study by Wildlife Conservation Society and University of Minnesota reveals that the world's largest owl relies on old-growth forests for breeding and prey. Large trees provide critical habitats for salmon, supporting the owls' survival.
A study published in Psychological Science sheds light on two distinct brain activation patterns involved in prospective memory. Participants demonstrated sustained top-down monitoring for relevant tasks and environmental cues for irrelevant tasks, suggesting different strategies for remembering to remember.
A study by Johns Hopkins Medicine and Brazilian experts found that preventive antibiotic therapy for people with HIV lowers their chances of developing TB or dying. Isoniazid therapy reduced deaths and new cases of active TB disease by 31 percent among men and women already infected with HIV.
The discovery of the olinguito reveals that the world is not yet completely explored, with many species still unknown to science. The team's findings also highlight the critical need to protect the cloud forests of Ecuador and Colombia, which are under threat from human development.
Researchers at UC Davis have identified a potential drug target for brucellosis, a chronic and debilitating bacterial disease. The study found that PPARγ is responsible for altering the metabolism of immune cells to supply bacteria with energy, enabling its survival and replication.
A newly discovered species, Rugosodon eurasiaticus, has provided critical insights into the evolution of multituberculates, which dominated Earth's landscapes for over 100 million years. The fossil's well-preserved anatomy reveals adaptations for gnawing plants and animals alike, as well as highly mobile ankle joints.
A randomized clinical trial found that calcium and vitamin D supplementation did not reduce joint pain or swelling in postmenopausal women. The study analyzed data from the Women's Health Initiative calcium plus vitamin D supplementation trial, which included 1,911 participants.
A new study published in Nature reveals that Antarctic warming began around 22,000 years ago, significantly earlier than previously thought. This finding challenges the long-held assumption that West Antarctica waited for cue from the Northern Hemisphere to start warming.
A new study finds that obesity is responsible for 18% of deaths among Black and White Americans aged 40-85, nearly triple previous estimates. The condition's impact on mortality varies by age, birth cohort, sex, and race.
Researchers at ORNL introduced small amounts of non-superconducting material to control nanoscale columns, resulting in optimized superconducting performance. The wires achieved record-breaking engineering critical current density, exceeding twice the required level for most applications.
A new study published in Mayo Clinic Proceedings suggests that consuming more than 28 cups of coffee per week may increase mortality risk in individuals under 55 years old. The study of over 40,000 participants found a statistically significant association between heavy coffee consumption and all-cause mortality.
A new study by Michigan State University found that improved caregiver training can significantly enhance the development of HIV-infected children. The program also reduces depression in caregivers, who are often the children's mothers and must work long hours to provide food.
A health risk score called the Rothman Index, calculated from routine electronic medical records data, can predict hospital readmission. It may help lower repeat hospitalization risk by identifying patients at high risk and providing a practical tool for clinicians to target hospital programs and supports.
The discovery of the olinguito is the first carnivore species to be found in the Western Hemisphere in over 35 years. The animal was discovered in cloud forests of Colombia and Ecuador through a combination of DNA testing, museum specimens, and field expeditions.
A new study by Tufts University suggests that vasectomy may be more effective than traditional neutering in managing feral cat populations, as it prevents reproductive hormones from protecting turf from competitors. The research supports the use of a trap-vasectomy-hysterectomy-release method to control feral cat colonies.
New Northwestern University research shows that aerobic exercise during the day does not result in improved sleep that same night for people with existing sleep problems. Regular exercise is a healthier way to address underlying insomnia issues, as it can lead to better sleep quality and reduced fatigue over time.
Researchers at the University of Adelaide have discovered a novel visual circuit in dragonflies' brains that combines opposite pathways for processing simple dark objects. This finding has implications for improving vision systems in robots and developing neural prosthetics.
A recent study published in the journal Cell highlights the natural regenerative capacity of cardiac stem cells that reside in the heart. These cells are responsible for repairing and regenerating muscle tissue damaged by a heart attack, which leads to heart failure.
Patients who quit smoking through a simple intervention had better mental health outcomes and were less likely to be hospitalized again. The study challenges the long-held assumption that smoking serves as a useful tool in treating some psychiatric patients.
Researchers at the University of Maryland say Voyager 1 has entered interstellar space, leaving a 'fuzzily-defined transition zone' behind. The spacecraft crossed the heliopause on July 27, 2012, but its exact location is still debated.
Researchers identified protein biomarkers that predict ovarian cancer recurrence and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) development. The findings suggest a potential for using protein analysis to predict patient outcomes and guide treatment decisions in both diseases.
A recent study found that diabetic patients taking oral fluoroquinolones have a higher risk of severe blood sugar-related problems compared to those taking other antibiotics. The increased risk was low, but clinicians should consider this when treating diabetic patients with fluoroquinolones, especially moxifloxacin.
Researchers in Tokyo and Mainz have successfully teleported photonic qubits with extreme reliability using a hybrid technique. The accuracy of the transfer was 79-82 percent, surpassing previous experiments.
Researchers found four biomarkers in microRNAs that accurately determine malignancy and predict patient outcomes in urinary bladder cancer. Two miRNAs correlated with overall survival time, providing potential prognostic capabilities.
A study published in the American Journal of Human Genetics found that whole-genome sequencing can identify genetic mutations associated with chronic mountain sickness. Researchers sequenced the genomes of Andean individuals and identified two genes, ANP32D and SENP1, which play a key role in hypoxia tolerance.
A study by University of Warwick researchers found that young children under 4 struggle to understand the concept of competition and how it relates to others' goals. They failed to appreciate the intentional use of poaching moves in games, even when faced with their opponent's actions.
Researchers develop a lightweight structure made of tiny blocks that can be snapped together like bricks, revolutionizing the assembly of airplanes, spacecraft, and larger structures. The new material is 10 times stiffer for a given weight than existing ultralight materials and can be easily disassembled and reassembled.
A recent study published in Neural Regeneration Research identified cell cycle-related genes as crucial factors in the development of neural tube defects. The research found that retinoic acid treatment differentially expressed three cell cycle-related genes: p57kip2, Cdk5, and Spin.
Researchers developed a mathematical model to estimate anthrax infection risk, estimating that inhaling 11,000 spores would be needed to reach a 50% chance of infection. The study also found the optimal time to take antibiotics is 60 days after exposure.
Researchers evolved hyperswarmable Pseudomonas aeruginosa bacteria, which formed less dense biofilms than their non-hyperswarmable counterparts. This could lead to the development of new anti-biofilm therapies.
A study found that surrogate decision-makers consider both the patient's interests and their own needs when making medical decisions, highlighting the complexity of this process. The researchers suggest greater advance care planning to address this issue.
A new analysis found that breastfeeding for over 6 months may safeguard nonsmoking mothers against breast cancer, with a 10-year delay in diagnosis compared to shorter breastfeeding periods. In contrast, smoking mothers did not benefit from longer breastfeeding
Researchers have established a new technique to predict seasonal cholera epidemics months in advance with greater accuracy, utilizing remote satellite imaging and measuring organic matter. The 'satellite water marker' index was found to be more accurate than previous methods, reducing error rates by up to 30%.
A Mediterranean-style diet and diets low in available carbohydrates can reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes. Patients with a high Mediterranean diet score (MDS) were 12% less likely to develop diabetes than those with the lowest MDS, while those with the highest available carbohydrate intake were 21% more likely.
The study found that Braintone increased the expression of hypoxia-inducible factor 1α, heme oxygenase-1 and vascular endothelial growth factor in ischemic cortex of rats with middle cerebral artery occlusion. This suggests a neuroprotective effect on ischemia-induced brain damage.
A trio of fires in Northern California continues to burn, with the Corral Complex fire spanning over 2,500 acres. The Salmon River Complex has burned over 13,500 acres, with firefighters working to contain it. Crews are prioritizing structure protection and preparing for potential ignitions to strengthen containment lines.
Preclinical data published in PNAS shows ATSP-7041 suppresses tumor growth in animal models of multiple human xenograft models, including breast cancer and bone cancer. The peptide efficiently penetrates cell membranes and restores p53 function by inhibiting MDM2 and MDMX.
The Gerontological Society of America has chosen William E. Haley, PhD, as the 2013 recipient of the Task Force on Minority Issues in Gerontology Outstanding Mentorship Award. He is recognized for his dedication to mentoring minority researchers in the field of aging.
The technique, dubbed 'multiple-dimensional vibrational spectroscopy,' captures the conformation of small molecules with great accuracy, measuring vibrations and determining angles between bonds. This method could revolutionize the study of catalysis, energy storage, and biomembranes.
Astronomers use Hubble to study distant galaxies 11 billion years ago, confirming the Hubble Sequence holds true as far back as 8 billion years. The study finds that all galaxies fit into different classifications of the sequence, with blue star-forming galaxies and massive red galaxies dominating at these early times.
A new study found that consuming a high-quality diet is linked to a lower risk of pancreatic cancer. Participants who adhered most closely to the 2005 Dietary Guidelines for Americans had a 15% reduced risk of pancreatic cancer compared to those with poorer dietary habits.
The Gerontological Society of America has awarded Richard M. Allman, MD, with the 2013 Joseph T. Freeman Award for his contributions to geriatric research and practice. The award recognizes his focus on understanding mobility loss in older adults and improving age-related health disparities.
Researchers at Penn State have found a precursor signal to slow earthquakes, which can potentially foretell larger events. By studying the mechanisms behind slow earthquakes, they identified a transition in fault zone properties that supports slower velocities.
A new biomarker, PROVAR, predicts time to ovarian cancer recurrence and distinguishes between high-risk patients. Analysis of protein biomarkers may help determine treatment plans for ovarian cancer patients.
Researchers studied the dynamics of squeezing fluids using a simple experiment of clapping with wet hands. The study sheds light on the behavior of fluids at the microscale level and has implications for fuel efficiency and pharmaceutical drug deliveries.
Researchers found that flavonoids in celery, artichokes and Mexican oregano can kill human pancreatic cancer cells by inhibiting the GSK-3β enzyme. This pre-treatment approach may prolong life without curing the disease, while preventing it could reduce cancer risk with chronic flavonoid exposure.
Researchers at Kansas State University and Avatekh Inc. are developing advanced nonlinear algorithms and circuits called adaptive nonlinear differential limiters (ANDLs) to reduce electronic noise and interference in industrial and consumer products. The technology may improve smartphone performance, battery life, and operating range.
A new GE technology uses pyruvate levels to detect prostate tumors in real time, providing a safe and non-invasive way to assess cancer progression. The technology has shown promising results in a clinical study of 31 patients with prostate cancer.
Researchers at CCNY developed a metal-catalyzed cross-coupling reaction to produce single-enantiomer molecules, enabling the creation of diverse libraries of biologically active molecules for drug screening. This approach is faster and potentially less costly than current methods, which are wasteful and costly.
MacDonald, a University of Victoria associate professor, received the award for his research on cognitive aging and early identification of those at risk for cognitive decline. His work aims to detect early markers that can facilitate targeted intervention strategies.
Researchers have developed a new approach to virus detection that uses data mining algorithms and machine learning techniques to identify malicious code and behavior patterns.
A Baylor University study found that hypnotic relaxation therapy improves sexual satisfaction and pleasure, as well as reduces discomfort in postmenopausal women with hot flashes. The therapy is a safe alternative to hormone replacement therapy, which carries risks of cancer and heart disease.
Researchers have discovered a new therapeutic target for Alzheimer's disease, which regulates N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor transport. Valeric acid, an N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor antagonist, has been shown to significantly inhibit the progression of learning and memory disturbances induced by Alzheimer's disease.
Researchers identified a new enzyme in the lignin biosynthetic pathway that reduces lignin content and increases cellulose conversion to glucose. This breakthrough has the potential to increase the efficiency of biofuel production from biomass by up to four-fold.
A multi-institutional team has found a recurrent genetic mutation, PRKG1, linked to thoracic aortic dissections in families with young members. The mutation causes muscle cells in the aorta wall to respond incorrectly to blood flow, leading to aneurysms and acute dissections.
A team of scientists has identified a potential mechanism for cellular memory, which allows cells to recall the order of transcription factor binding. This discovery sheds light on how cells maintain gene regulation and may have implications for understanding diseases such as cancer.
Researchers at UNSW have developed a new class of drugs that target the structure of cancer cells, providing proof-of-concept for two types of cancers in animal models: neuroblastoma and melanoma. This breakthrough could lead to an entirely new type of chemotherapy with fewer long-term side effects.
Dr. Krause has made significant contributions to the field of gerontology through his research on stress and coping mechanisms, particularly in relation to spirituality and health. He will receive the GSA's 2013 Distinguished Career Contribution to Gerontology Award at the upcoming Annual Scientific Meeting.
The TRILOGY ACS trial found that patients who had an angiography followed by prasugrel had fewer heart attacks and strokes compared to those who had an angiography followed by clopidogrel. This benefit was not seen in patients who did not have angiography.
New research shows that vegetable oil fatty acids can increase plasma membrane fluidity in retina cells, reducing the risk of retinopathy and age-related macular degeneration. A diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids and olive oil may also contribute to preventing retina diseases.
The skin uses a unique method to renew itself, with differentiated levels of stem cells and their micro-environment determining cell types. This challenges current stem cell models and provides new knowledge on skin cancer and wound healing.
Researchers found that muscle cells in knockout mice grew larger, but lost strength due to oxidative stress. The study suggests that limiting oxidative stress could help prevent age-related muscle loss and improve overall health.
A study led by Dr. Elizabeth Osuch found a correlation between the activation of the putamen region in the brain and bipolar disorder symptoms. The discovery may lead to a definitive biological marker for differentiating between major depressive disorder and bipolar disorder, ultimately improving diagnosis and treatment.
Researchers found that people with normal vision can adjust their eye movements within hours to cope with temporary vision loss. This discovery suggests a way to help individuals with age-related macular degeneration better manage visual impairment.
Research from Boston University found that African-American women who reported frequent experiences of racism were more likely to develop adult-onset asthma. The study, which followed 38,142 women over 14 years, also discovered a significant link between increased racism and asthma incidence.
Researchers at the University of California, San Diego, have decoded the genetic basis of chronic mountain sickness, a disease affecting Andean highlanders. They found two genes, ANP32D and SENP1, that are overexpressed in CMS individuals and may hold key to treating the condition.
Researchers employed a unique approach to study the Greenland ice sheet, discovering that current models may not accurately predict its movement. The team found that as the ice sheet accelerates, it opens up space between the ice and bedrock, expanding the drainage network.
Research suggests that patients' chronic pain affects their spouses' emotional well-being and marital satisfaction, leading to compromised sleep quality. In close relationships, the greater a patient's pain, the less refreshing the sleep for the spouse.
Scientists have successfully transmitted HIV in a mouse model of heterosexual intercourse, shedding light on the complexities of viral transmission and potential prevention methods. The study's findings suggest that hormonal factors in the female reproductive tract can impact host susceptibility to HIV infection.
A recent study published in Immunity has identified interleukin-33 as a central factor in the formation of liver fibrosis. The research suggests that targeting this molecule could provide a promising new approach to protecting against liver fibrosis and chronic liver disease.
Researchers at EPFL found that visualizing heartbeat on a virtual body can alter how people experience their own body and self. The study suggests that internal organs shape body ownership and can be used to change self-consciousness.
Sullivan-Marx, dean of the New York University College of Nursing, receives the award for her sustained efforts in advancing geriatric nursing research and care. The recognition honors her work on improving functional outcomes of older adults and developing health policy in community-based long-term care settings.
A new study found that remote ischaemic preconditioning can reduce heart muscle damage after coronary artery bypass graft surgery. Patients who underwent the procedure had lower troponin I concentrations, indicating less damage, and were less likely to die from any cause or heart attack/stroke one year after surgery.
Jeffrey M. Hausdorff, PhD, receives the GSA's Excellence in Rehabilitation of Aging Persons Award for his work on gait variability, motor-cognitive interactions and the assessment of fall risk. His research has led to the development of innovative rehabilitation programs, including a multi-modal treadmill training program that improves...
A new study found that oxytocin increases responses to social stimuli in individuals with autism spectrum disorder, suggesting a potential treatment approach for the condition. The study, published in Biological Psychiatry, used functional imaging scans to examine brain activity in participants with ASD and healthy controls.
Nina Kraus, PhD, a researcher at Northwestern University, is the 2013 recipient of the Gene D. Cohen Research Award in Creativity and Aging. Her work focuses on the neurobiology underlying speech and music perception and learning-associated brain plasticity.
A study published in Human Molecular Genetics found that the complement system plays a critical role in early macular degeneration. The researchers used mice genetically engineered to have an inherited form of the disease and found that turning off the complement system prevented the disease from progressing.
Research reveals that male wild turkeys' sexual attractiveness is tied to how they use their genes, rather than physical differences. Dominant and subordinate males exhibit distinct genetic profiles, with dominant males showing higher male-like gene expression.
Researchers at WashU Medicine have identified a new therapeutic target for COPD by linking acute viral infections to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Viral infection triggers the production of IL-33, a signaling molecule that activates immune cells to produce excess mucus in the lungs.
The study showed that the Ebola VP40 protein exists as a dimer and rearranges its structure to assemble filaments for the virus shell or bind RNA, controlling various steps of the life cycle with multiple functions.
Researchers found that the signaling protein calcineurin upregulates Ang-2, promoting angiogenesis in lung endothelial cells. This pathway is crucial for metastasis, offering new targets for lung cancer therapy.
Researchers found that a gene related to vitamin D action, measured at birth, predicts bone density in children by four years of age. Vitamin D levels during pregnancy are also linked to the gene's activity.