Researchers are using an advanced humanoid robot called Nao to measure human interaction with robots in public spaces. The project aims to enhance the public realm as a space where people can interact under conditions of privacy and equality.
A phase II clinical trial at the University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center showed that a combination of rituximab and pidilizumab sparked complete responses in 19 out of 29 patients with relapsed follicular lymphoma, with a response rate of 66%. The treatment had a mild side effect profile, with no grade 3 or 4 adverse events.
Peggy A. Honoré, DHA, has been awarded the 2013 Excellence in Health Administration Award for her outstanding leadership and contributions to public health finance and systems research. She is also Director of the Public Health System, Finance, and Quality Program at the US Department of Health and Human Services.
Researchers at Penn have found that the optimal amount of strain for a beating heart depends on the stiffness of its collagen framework. The study showed that as the embryo develops, the stiffening of collagen leads to an increase in myosin motor proteins to maintain the optimal heartbeat.
Researchers at Georgia State University discovered that negative resistivity can produce a positive resistance in GaAs/AlGaAs semiconductor devices under the influence of a magnetic field. The sign reversal in the Hall effect also occurs.
A recent study by University of California, Irvine sociologist Kristin Turney and Yale University's Christopher Wildeman found that the incarceration of nonresident fathers does not have a detrimental effect on their parenting. When fathers were not living with their children prior to incarceration, their time behind bars had no signif...
Researchers found that people with hemophilia infected with HIV for decades have increased levels of immune cells targeting HIV. This cellular response, combined with antiretroviral therapy, enables patients to long-term survive despite HIV activity. The study provides new insights into the reasons behind clinical stability in these pa...
A Baylor University study found that people from the largest racial group in a congregation feel more sense of belonging and are more involved. In contrast, those from smaller racial groups report lower feelings of belonging and participation rates.
Researchers found that loss of RPL5 or RPL11 prevents cell cycle arrest but impairs proliferation due to reduced ribosome content and translation capacity. This discovery highlights a new mechanism for controlling cell growth, relying on the essential role of these ribosomal proteins in biogenesis.
Lynch syndrome increases the risk of colon and endometrial cancers. Screening all endometrial cancers for this genetic mutation can lead to early detection and improved patient outcomes for women at high risk.
The NIH has made large-scale information on small interfering RNA (siRNA) molecules publicly available, increasing the potential for finding new treatments for diseases. Researchers can now access siRNA sequences targeting over 20,000 human genes, facilitating studies of gene function and disease progression.
Six life science researchers from the UK, France, and US will receive EMBO Installation Grants to establish their research groups in the Czech Republic, Poland, Portugal, and Turkey. The grants aim to strengthen science in selected member states and facilitate collaboration with European centers of research and education.
A new multi-gene test can identify breast cancer patients at high risk of developing aggressive triple-negative cancers. The test analyzes genetic signatures associated with poor prognosis, which may reveal potential targets for new drugs and therapies.
Researchers at MIT develop WiTrack, a system that tracks movement through walls with high accuracy using low-power radio signals. The technology has potential applications in gaming, fall detection among the elderly, and other areas where accurate location tracking is required.
Scientists from the University of Ottawa and University of Calgary have shown that the bacterium Pseudomonas aeruginosa has genetically evolved to survive in CF-infected lungs and evade antibiotic treatments. The study provides new insights into the evolution of the pathogen, which is a major driver of cystic fibrosis mortality.
Researchers evaluated camelina expeller digestibility in pigs, comparing them to canola meal. The study found that some camelina expeller sources had comparable amino acid digestibility to canola meal, suggesting their use in pig diets may be possible. However, other sources showed lower digestibility values.
A recent study published in PLOS Medicine found that police activities in Thailand, including urine drug testing and coercive tactics, may lead to riskier behaviors among people who inject drugs. The study, conducted in Bangkok, highlighted the need for better integration of public health policy with policing activity.
The journal retracted a paper by Séralini et al. due to inconclusive data, but faced questions about the decision-making process and COPE guidelines. Editor-in-Chief A. Wallace Hayes responds to concerns, stating that Professor Goodman's involvement was minimal and not pressured upon him.
A recent study found that consumers who believe their fate can change are more likely to exhibit impulsive or indulgent behavior after reading a negative horoscope. On the other hand, participants who believed in a fixed fate were able to resist temptation and stay focused on their day ahead.
Two Canadian teens, Adamo Young and Kiri Daust, published their research on wasps and leaf disease, revealing an efficient killer of an agricultural pest and a little-known fungus hurting Highbush Cranberries. Their studies help farmers combat the moth pest without pesticides.
Comet ISON successfully passed close to the sun, shedding light on its composition and behavior. Despite initial hopes for a bright display, the comet's nucleus likely broke apart due to intense heat, producing limited dust tail observations.
Researchers at Stanford University have observed a cellular response to concussions in mice, revealing how individual cells react to the injury. The study suggests a possible therapeutic approach by using natural antioxidant molecules like glutathione to prevent brain damage.
Researchers at UC San Diego developed an algorithm that uses group pictures to determine urban tribes, achieving 48% accuracy. The algorithm analyzes facial features, clothing, and other attributes in a 'parts and attributes' approach, with potential applications in search results, social networks, and public space surveillance.
Researchers at Scripps Florida Institute developed a compound that dramatically reduces joint inflammation in animal models of rheumatoid arthritis. The study showed the compound, SR2211, blocked symptoms and bone erosion in mice within eight to ten days of treatment.
Physicist Zhifeng Ren has been recognized for his groundbreaking contributions to five scientific fields: carbon nanotubes, thermoelectrics, hierarchical zinc oxide nanowires, high temperature superconductivity, and molecule delivery/sensing. His work on waste heat recovery and immunosuppressant medication detection has shown significa...
Researchers at IDIBELL describe the key role of separase protein in regulating mitosis and ensuring correct genetic inheritance. The study identifies two new substrates that contribute to the Hippo tumor suppressor pathway, advancing knowledge of this process.
Researchers developed a cost-effective two-part model of the skull using multimaterial 3D printers to simulate human tissues. The model's versatility and realism enable more effective neuronavigation techniques training.
Mount Sinai researchers found that a drug-resistant H7N9 virus retained its ability to replicate and cause severe illness in humans, even after becoming resistant to Tamiflu. The study suggests that flu viruses can develop drug-resistant mutations without suffering a penalty in terms of their fitness.
Researchers have mathematically described the phase transition between a boring empty space and an expanding universe containing mass. The theory connects quantum field theory and Einstein's relativity, suggesting that time and space can undergo a phase transition similar to liquid-solid transitions.
A new RAND Corporation study reveals that private contractors working in Iraq, Afghanistan, or other conflict environments report higher rates of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and depression than military personnel. Despite the challenges, many contractors struggle to access mental health resources.
Researchers found that initiating palliative care consultations in emergency departments (EDs) reduced hospital length of stay by an average of 3.6 days compared to patients receiving consultations after admission. This study suggests that EDs could be a setting for improving patient-centered care and reducing healthcare costs.
The AGORA project aims to resolve inconsistencies in supercomputer simulations of galaxy evolution by comparing results from different codes and processes. By applying the principle of reproducibility, researchers hope to identify key physics ingredients that produce realistic galaxies.
Scientists at Medical College of Georgia discovered that disabling a key brain component impairs memory formation and retrieval. Mice lacking an NMDA receptor exhibit flat tones, poor associations, and difficulty recalling fearful memories, highlighting the importance of reverberation in memory consolidation.
A new study found that consumers rejected from social networks are more likely to purchase products already accepted by the group than choose something unique. In contrast, brands using popularity appeals may elicit a positive response by emphasizing the uniqueness of their product.
Dr. Frederic Zenhausern has been inducted into the Fellows of the National Academy of Inventors for his rapid DNA processing innovations that contribute to Arizona's economic development. His work is aimed at early diagnostics of human diseases, with a focus on integrating bioassay chemistries and biomarkers.
Researchers identify novel genetic mutations in the CALR gene that are common in patients with myeloproliferative neoplasms, improving diagnosis and treatment decisions. The study also explores the use of lenalidomide and idelalisib to strengthen rituximab treatment for pre-treated patients.
The Philadelphia Pediatric Device Consortium, led by CHOP and Drexel University, aims to address the shortage of medical devices designed for children. With a $1.5 million FDA grant, the consortium will provide expertise, seed funding, and business support to translate innovative ideas into practical devices.
A study published in Springer's journal found that a long-proboscid fly can suck up almost all nectar available in a flower in one go due to more efficient suction pumps in its head. This allows the insect to gain an advantage over other flies with average-sized mouth parts.
Juno's flyby provided an extraordinary view of Earth and the moon from a unique vantage point near the tip of one of the spacecraft's solar-array arms. The star tracker captured frames for the movie when the spacecraft was about 2.4 million miles from Earth, offering a front-row seat to the flyby.
Researchers analyzed 32 years' worth of data from satellite instruments to find temperatures plummeting to record lows dozens of times in clusters of pockets near a high ridge between Dome Argus and Dome Fuji on the East Antarctic Plateau. The new record of minus 136 F (-93.2 C) was set Aug. 10, 2010.
A study by University of Maryland researchers predicts that strong social ties and low mobility enable the evolution of third-party punishment. In contexts with high social constraint, responsible punishers can induce cooperation and benefit the community.
A new study provides guidance for conserving endangered marine species in a changing climate. The research outlines the most likely future scenarios for aquatic animals, helping decision makers and biologists assess impacts and incorporate that information into conservation decisions. Trends such as increased ocean acidification and wa...
A new study by SDSU researchers found that celebrity cancer diagnoses lead to a substantial rise in quitting smoking queries, even after media coverage subsides. The study analyzed Google News archives and public search activity surrounding former Brazilian President Lula da Silva's diagnosis, revealing a lasting impact on behavior.
Heterotrimeric G proteins play significant roles in plant development, including fruit and seed size and production, defense against pests and pathogens, and response to abiotic stresses. Research by Sona Pandey and collaborators showed that elevated G protein quantities in Camelina sativa led to increased seed production and size.
A 12-week study found that CPAP treatment decreased 24-hour average and diastolic blood pressure, improving nocturnal blood pressure patterns in patients with resistant hypertension and OSA. Longer-term health outcomes warrant further research.
Research finds that thinking about time reduces cheating behavior by encouraging self-reflection, whereas priming people to think about money makes them more likely to cheat. This study suggests that boosting self-reflection might be an effective way to curb dishonesty.
A new detection method and model enable determinations of pesticide residues' biodegradability. The study classifies residues into three types based on their release mechanisms, allowing for more accurate evaluation of pesticide environmental impact.
Researchers found that customizing a personal website can improve self-control, reducing the likelihood of making impulsive decisions during online transactions. Participants who tailored their own site worked longer on a puzzle task than those who customized for others.
A new study from North Carolina State University has raised doubts about the effectiveness of using skull shape for positive identifications. Researchers found that only 47% of participants accurately matched antemortem and postmortem X-rays, highlighting the limitations of relying solely on cranial vault outlines.
A study found that consumers tend to choose individualized but less preferred gifts when shopping for multiple recipients. Shoppers prioritize getting different gifts for each person on their list rather than opting for a single, more appealing gift.
Research advances demonstrate progress in cancer fight, but also stress need for increased funding to translate research into effective treatments. The report highlights three areas of progress: genomics, treatment-resistant cancers, and targeted immunotherapy.
A new study finds that consumers donate less when focused on distant future but more when abstract thinking is used. Brands can leverage this by emphasizing the fun experience of a product, rather than its unpleasant side effects.
University of Missouri researchers found that encouraging healthy adults to be more physically active can improve their cardiorespiratory fitness. The study suggests that recommendations from healthcare professionals and simple interventions can effectively boost physical activity levels and lead to better health outcomes.
A study by Mathew S. Isaac and Robert M. Schindler found that moving just two spots up or down a ranked list can greatly influence consumer perception. The researchers analyzed data from the Graduate Management Admissions Council, finding that rank changes near round-number group borders are the best predictors of increased applications.
A new species of butterfly-orchid, Platanthera azorica, has been discovered in the Azores, and is believed to be Europe's rarest orchid. The species was previously known from a 19th-century illustration and was thought to be extinct.
Researchers have identified widespread regulation of proteins involved in metabolism by the mitochondrial sirtuin, SIRT5. This study found that SIRT5 selectively removes specific sites of succinyl modifications in over 140 different proteins, leading to disruptions in metabolic pathways.
The study aims to determine the prevalence of pediatric chronic fatigue syndrome in over 20,000 Chicago area youth ages 5 to 17. Chronic fatigue syndrome is an illness affecting close to 1 million Americans, causing significant impairment in physical functioning and daily activities.
Researchers found that tree sparrows can identify parasitic eggs by color and shape, ejecting 81% of non-native objects. The birds' ability to recognize foreign eggs is linked to motivation and nest sanitation, with some species being more careful during incubation.
The AGORA project aims to resolve issues in galaxy formation simulations by systematically comparing high-resolution codes using a common set of initial conditions and astrophysical assumptions. The comparisons will help researchers determine which simulation results are due to the code platform or underlying theoretical assumptions.
Two NREL reports show that soft costs, including financing and installation costs, now account for up to 64% of the total price of residential solar energy systems. Researchers found that supply chain costs, labor, customer acquisition, and corporate costs are among the largest contributors to these costs.