A new study by Max-Planck-Gesellschaft researchers finds that rising unemployment rates in Europe have led to a decrease in fertility, with young adults being the most affected. The drop in children per woman was strongest for first births, with many postponing family formation.
A new study reveals the H7N9 avian influenza virus can infect and replicate in human cells, suggesting it has pandemic potential. The virus also transmits efficiently in ferrets and other mammalian species, raising concerns about a potential global outbreak.
A new study found that recent drinking is related to the orbitofrontal-region brain response to an intensely sweet stimulus, which may indicate risk for developing alcoholism. The research used functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) and recruited healthy volunteers to examine brain responses to sweet tastes and drinking patterns.
Archaeologists at the Weizmann Institute of Science have discovered the oldest known use of flowers in grave lining, dating back 11,700 to 13,700 years. The graves were found to contain Judean sage, mint, and figwort plants, which suggest that ancient humans had a positive association with flowers.
The newly described species Ridleyandra chuana is a rare herb found in montane forests of Peninsular Malaysia, with a limited distribution and only two known populations. The conservation status of this species has been assessed as Endangered due to its restricted distribution and low population numbers.
Scientists have discovered oligosaccharides in breast milk that confer protection by feeding beneficial intestinal bacteria, crowding out harmful E. coli strains. This research aims to develop probiotics to prevent life-threatening intestinal diseases in premature babies.
A study of 601 women with breast cancer found that African-American women were more likely to experience delay in treatment due to type of treatment received or younger age. White women experienced delay if they underwent immediate breast reconstruction following mastectomy.
Researchers have identified a new virus associated with the death of a short-beaked dolphin in San Diego, belonging to the polyomavirus family. The discovery could help protect dolphins and other animals from disease outbreaks.
Researchers at Brown University have discovered that graphene's sharp corners and jagged protrusions can pierce cell membranes, potentially disrupting normal function. The findings may help minimize the potential toxicity of graphene, a material with numerous commercial applications.
Researchers have developed two compounds that show promise as safer alternatives to acetaminophen, reducing the risk of liver damage. The new substances have a similar architecture to acetaminophen but are non-toxic to liver cells grown in the laboratory.
A new research project from Aarhus University found that test-tube children are generally as mentally healthy as naturally conceived children. However, children born to mothers who received hormone stimulation treatment for infertility have a small but increased risk of developing mental disorders such as autism or ADHD.
Individuals with abdominal fat are at greater risk of heart disease and cancer compared to those with a similar BMI who carry their fat in other areas. The study used CT scans to assess ectopic fat locations around the heart tissue and aortic artery.
Chemists from North Carolina State University have successfully performed a DNA-based logic-gate operation within a human cell. The researchers used a DNA-based Boolean logic gate that was activated only when two specific microRNAs were present in cells, generating an output by releasing a fluorescent molecule.
A 7-year Kansas State University study found that wind turbines have little effect on greater prairie chicken populations. Female survival rates increased after turbine installation, possibly due to reduced predator presence. Conservation management practices, such as grazing and fire management, had the strongest impact on bird habitats.
Researchers have developed a new method for identifying cell of origin of proteins in multicellular environments, enabling comprehensive mapping of cell-cell communication. This technique, CTAP, exploits amino acid biosynthesis and stable isotope labeling to link proteins directly to specific cell types.
The IBEX spacecraft has provided the first complete pictures of the solar system's downwind region, revealing a unique and unexpected structure. The images show two lobes dominating the downwind side of the solar system, which researchers initially thought was the heliotail but is now believed to be separate structures.
Research suggests negative symptoms of schizophrenia are associated with abnormalities in weighing effort cost versus reward value. Individuals with severe motivational problems tend to avoid higher-effort tasks for smaller rewards.
A new study by Stanford University researchers concludes that the demand for oil will reach its peak and decline due to economic growth limitations and increasing use of alternative fuels. Historically, there is a connection between economic growth and oil consumption breaking down, leading to more efficient alternatives.
The study reveals that Salmonella typhi's powerful typhoid toxin is responsible for the devastating symptoms of typhoid fever. The discovery could lead to the development of effective vaccines and therapeutics targeting this toxin, offering hope for saving millions of lives.
A ten-week yoga course improved prisoners' mood, reduced stress, and bettered behavior control. The study suggests yoga may aid in managing the burden of mental health problems in prisons.
Researchers have discovered a bacterium in South America that produces poly-beta-hydroxybutyrate (PHB), a biodegradable compound used in the food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries. The strain, Bacillus megaterium Uyuni S29, produces large amounts of PHB, making it a promising natural substitute for petroleum-based plastics.
Researchers at Indiana University have successfully created the inner ear from stem cells using a three-dimensional cell culture method. The discovery provides insights into the sensory organ's developmental process and offers potential for laboratory models of disease and treatments for hearing loss and balance disorders.
Researchers aim to improve biosynthetic yield of valuable natural products using metabolically modified bacteria with optimized MEP pathways. The goal is to produce high-quality substances efficiently, reducing labor and costs in the process.
Researchers have created a more systematic approach to synthesizing quantum dots, enabling the purification of semiconductor nanocrystals with uniform surface properties. The new method uses gel-permeation chromatography and has been shown to produce quantum dots with improved stability and reactivity.
A study published in Chemical Research in Toxicology reveals that cigarette smoke affects key genes protecting the heart and lungs, leading to increased risk of heart disease in obese smokers. Cigarette smoke exposure also amplifies this effect in non-smoking obese individuals who inhale second-hand smoke.
The Quebec forest fires have caused significant disruptions, with over 10% of Quebecers losing electricity due to power line failures triggered by smoke from the fires. More than 280,000 hectares of forested area have been scorched, with three major forest fires being monitored.
Scientists analyzed long-term data from seven sites in the US and found a substantial increase in water-use efficiency in temperate and boreal forests. This adaptation could enhance timber yields and improve water availability, but may also lead to reduced evapotranspiration and increased continental freshwater runoff.
A study of over 6,500 children found that early childhood temperament styles can predict alcohol use and problems in mid-adolescence. Temperaments such as emotional and behavioral difficulties were linked to an increased risk of drinking, while sociability was also a significant factor.
Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center have identified neutrophils, white blood cells, as a major source of interferon-gamma, a protein that stimulates the immune system to fight viruses and other pathogens. The discovery challenges long-held beliefs about the role of neutrophils in immunity.
Recent research questions the idea of discrete brain areas for specific cognitive functions like mind-wandering and attention reorienting. Instead, studies suggest that brain activation is due to the release of suppression rather than additional task-related processes.
A study published in The Lancet found that individuals born between 1915 and 1998 showed better cognitive abilities and daily functioning compared to those born between 1905 and 1998. This improvement was seen despite slightly lower educational attainment in the older cohort.
A new statistical framework called Pathoscope can accurately discriminate between closely related strains of the same species with little coverage of the pathogenic genome. The method also determines the complete composition of known pathogenic and benign organisms in a biological sample.
Israel's unique blend of medical innovation, universal accessibility and patient compliance leads to significant reduction in preventable blindness rates. The country's success in preventing avoidable blindness has emerged as a world leader, making it an attractive model for other nations.
A study by Cedars-Sinai Medical Center's Movement Disorders Program identified variables that affect impedance in deep brain stimulation devices, which can alter patient outcomes. Regular clinic visits are crucial to ensure steady levels of stimulation and prevent side effects.
The drill population has been reduced to critical habitat areas in Cameroon, with only four habitats receiving high scores for sustainable populations. Conservation efforts are now focused on these key areas, including the proposed Ebo National Park.
The study reveals high genetic diversity of Plasmodium vivax in the Americas, similar to Asia and Oceania, suggesting multiple introductions. This diversity has important implications for control and eradication efforts.
A Harvard study found that forests across the globe are becoming more efficient in using water, contrary to expectations. The research team used long-term data from over 20 years of eddy covariance measurements to show that forests are storing more carbon and growing faster due to increased atmospheric carbon dioxide levels.
A recent study by UT Arlington professor Jiyoon Yoon found that cyberbullying in the college environment can pose serious consequences, including physical endangerment. The researchers also discovered that most respondents considered cyberbullying to be more prevalent at the secondary school level.
The University of North Carolina will assist the President's Maternal Health and Safe Motherhood Initiative by designing maternity homes, training healthcare providers, and establishing a residency program. The grant aims to reduce maternal and infant deaths in Malawi, which has one of the highest maternal mortality rates in the world.
Researchers at University College London discovered a 36% faster cognitive decline in smokers who consumed heavy alcohol compared to non-smoking moderate drinkers. The study found that combining smoking and heavy drinking could accelerate brain aging by an equivalent of 12 years.
Emergency physicians used a new tool to assess drug-seeking behavior in the emergency department with an accuracy rate of 87%, according to a recent study. The use of prescription monitoring programs data helped reduce changes in prescribing plans from over 35% to less than 10%.
New research suggests that jealousy can prompt people to change how they view themselves relative to competitors for their partners' attention. In studies, participants rated themselves as having personal attributes more like the perceived romantic rival than before.
Despite increased physical activity, obesity rates remain high in nearly all US counties, with some areas experiencing significant declines while others struggle to make progress. The trend has little impact on life expectancy, which remains slow compared to global peers.
A two-year feasibility study trains Swedish social workers in the Project Support program, shown to reduce child abuse and neglect. The program provides intensive, one-on-one parenting help and emotional support for families with violent pasts.
Scientists at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital discovered that protein MCL1 is essential for normal cardiac function, complicating cancer drug development efforts. The study suggests that targeting MCL1 expression in target cells may be beneficial for treating heart muscle damage following heart attacks or other insults.
A study of over 300 college students found that those who spent more than 14 hours daily on their phones were less fit than those with moderate usage. High cell phone use was linked to a sedentary lifestyle, increasing the risk for various health issues.
A new Vanderbilt study finds that vaccinated children are reducing the spread of pneumonia to grandparents and other older adults. The vaccine has been linked to a 40% reduction in pneumonia hospitalizations among young children, while also benefiting older adults with significant reductions in hospitalizations across age groups.
Scientists at Vienna University of Technology experimentally confirmed a new theory of heat radiation for ultra-thin optical fibers, showing that smaller objects can't radiate efficiently. This discovery is crucial for nano-devices and aerosol physics.
A new study suggests that the Greenland ice sheet's contribution to sea-level rise will continue to increase as surface melting becomes more significant. This change is driven by the rapid retreat of outlet glaciers and strong warming-induced surface melting, which removes ice before it can reach the marine margin.
A powerful coronal mass ejection (CME) from the sun has been directed towards Earth and Mercury, posing a risk to electronic systems and communication signals. The CME's magnetic fields can cause geomagnetic storms, potentially leading to aurora displays.
Researchers at the UK's National Physical Laboratory have performed the most accurate measurement yet of the Boltzmann constant, which could revolutionize the way we define temperature. The new definition directly links the unit of temperature to the basic physical reality of atomic vibrations.
A large study found that people with Alzheimer's disease had a cut in half risk of developing cancer, and those with cancer had a reduced risk of developing Alzheimer's by 35%. The researchers controlled for life expectancy to confirm the findings.
The NHS is facing a deepening financial crisis, with the BMA warning that efficiency savings may need to reach £24.25bn by 2016. The head of health policy at the BMA believes this would require drastic measures, including 'pay and staffing levels to be decimated', making the service unviable.
A team of researchers has created the first-ever compendium of RNA-binding sequences, which will become a valuable resource for researchers studying human genetics. The study reveals similarities between humans and fruit flies in terms of binding sequences, suggesting that many proteins bind to similar sequences across species.
A study found that angiography and percutaneous coronary interventions were lower among Medicare Advantage beneficiaries compared to those covered by Medicare fee-for-service. There was also significant geographic variation in procedure rates between payment types.
A Stanford-led study reveals that mammals can manipulate sex ratios of their offspring to produce extra grandchildren. Females and grandmothers strategically choose sons over daughters to increase reproductive success.
A large prospective study by Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center scientists confirms the link between high blood concentrations of omega-3 fatty acids and an increased risk of prostate cancer. High-grade prostate cancer tumors are more likely to be fatal, and the study found a 71% higher risk for high-grade prostate cancer.
Scientists at the University of Adelaide have created a novel structure that traps terahertz waves in tiny holes to produce higher contrast imaging. This breakthrough has the potential to enhance the sensitivity of medical diagnostic and security scanners, leading to more accurate cancer detection and improved homeland security.
Researchers found that acoustic features of music influence walkers' stride length and speed, regardless of tempo. Participants who walked to faster-paced music were more likely to rate it as bad or aggressive.
A study published in PLOS ONE found that children with high proportions of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) in their cord blood are more likely to develop respiratory and skin allergies. The researchers discovered that omega-3 and omega-6 PUFAs were particularly associated with an increased risk of allergy development.
Researchers found radioimmunotherapy using 177Lu-DOTA-rituximab to be highly effective in treating relapsing follicular, mantle cell, and other indolent B-cell lymphomas. The treatment resulted in high tumor response rates and was well-tolerated, with toxicity mainly being hematologic.
A systematic review found that delaying umbilical cord clamping after birth improves newborn iron levels and overall health. Babies with delayed cord clamping had higher haemoglobin levels and were less likely to be iron-deficient.
Researchers tracked thresher shark activity and analyzed instances of tail-slapping to stun or kill sardines. The study highlights the diversity of shark hunting strategies in the ocean, where top predators adapt to prey's evasion behaviors.
The US is losing ground in health outcomes to other countries, with mental and behavioral disorders, musculoskeletal problems, and neurological conditions causing significant disability. Chronic disability now accounts for nearly half of all health loss in the US.
A study of 191 patients found that ADHD-related impulsivity worsens the prognosis for adults with eating disorders, particularly those with bulimia and binge-eating disorders. The research also identified age and low self-direction as risk factors for developing an eating disorder.
Research challenges conventional wisdom on giant sea creatures in polar seas, suggesting that large body sizes have an advantage in cold conditions by regulating oxygen uptake. This allows them to survive in environments with limited oxygen availability, contrary to the long-held idea that a superabundance of oxygen drives gigantism.
Researchers develop a new way to rapidly produce high-strength metallic alloys, with potential applications in transport and medical devices. The breakthrough uses Spark Plasma Sintering (SPS) system with integrated gas quenching mechanism.
A low-cost system developed by NTU can track multiple fingers and objects on various surfaces, transforming existing flat-panel TVs into interactive display screens. The system has been proven on different types of large surfaces and is expected to revolutionize the way we interact with digital content.
A new study reveals that fear of deportation is lower among farmworkers who receive medical care from community health centers and faith-based organizations. Key factors influencing medical service use include trusted community health organizations and local church connections.
Seven graduate students and one undergraduate received prestigious poster awards for their research on Caenorhabditis elegans, a model organism used to study human biology and disease. The winners will receive cash prizes, certificates, and a complimentary one-year extension to their GSA membership.
Researchers propose targeted cloud brightening as a means to lower sea temperatures and reduce coral bleaching. The technique, which involves seeding marine clouds with tiny seawater droplets, could provide a 50-year reprieve for coral reefs threatened by acidification and warming.
A study by Royal Holloway University found that victims of forced marriage are hesitant to seek help because they fear cultural misunderstanding. Researchers call for mandatory training on culturally sensitive issues to support victims and improve outcomes.
Researchers at UCSF discovered changes in intestinal bacteria can perpetuate inflammation triggered by HIV, linked to chronic diseases such as heart disease, dementia, and obesity. The study suggests manipulating microbial populations could be a promising strategy to restore gut health and potentially treat HIV.
A recent study found significant disparities in major depression rates among senior citizens from different ethnic groups. Whites and blacks of Caribbean descent experience higher rates of depression than African-Americans, highlighting the need for tailored diagnoses and treatment approaches.
Researchers at EPFL have developed a new solid-state dye-sensitized solar cell (DSSC) design that increases efficiency to a record 15% without sacrificing stability. This breakthrough overcomes the inherent voltage loss of traditional DSSCs and opens a new era for DSSC development.
A team of scientists identified a protein that induces membrane curvature in thylakoids, enabling the formation of stacks. The CURT1 protein enhances photosynthesis efficiency by increasing the degree of stacking and potentially boosting crop yields.
Researchers at The Scripps Research Institute found that MDPV, a stimulant in 'bath salts', can induce strong cravings and repetitive behaviors similar to those seen in methamphetamine users. The study suggests MDPV may be more addictive than methamphetamine, with rats working harder to obtain the drug.
Researchers at MIT have discovered a new method to trap light that could find applications in lasers, solar cells, and fiber optics. The phenomenon involves destructive interference from waves of opposite phases, blocking certain wavelengths while allowing others to pass through.
The BrightFocus Foundation has awarded $7.2 million in grants to 53 scientists conducting research on Alzheimer's, glaucoma, and macular degeneration. The funded projects focus on imaging technology, gene therapy, and cell regeneration to better understand disease development and potential new therapies.
Researchers have developed a concept to improve cancer drug delivery using nanoparticles that concentrate and expand in acidic environments. The concept involves using nanoparticles made of weak polybases that expand when transported into environments mimicking tumor cells, accumulating long enough to deliver anticancer drugs.
In early mammalian development, embryonic cells undergo a battle for survival between days 3 and 7. Cells with higher levels of Myc protein eliminate those with lower levels through an optimization mechanism. This study reveals that this process does not waste cellular resources but instead benefits the embryo.
Researchers developed an integrated global energy system to assess the cost-effectiveness of BECCS for meeting stringent temperature targets. They found that implementing BECCS on a large scale can reduce temperature increases to as low as 1.5°C by 2150.
Researchers at Berkeley Lab's Advanced Light Source found that vitamin D deficiency not only reduces bone mineralization but also induces premature aging of existing bone. This accelerates the risk of fractures in patients with vitamin D deficiency.
Rates of severe depression fell significantly among older adults between 1998 and 2008, particularly among those aged 80-84, with late middle agers experiencing increased depression symptoms. Despite this trend, a significant percentage of the population continues to experience severe symptoms.
Dr. Partho Sengupta presented the first-ever hologram presentation at the ASE's 2013 24th Annual Scientific Sessions, utilizing 3D digital images and expert interview recordings to analyze cardiovascular system structure, function, and flow patterns. This innovative presentation format was made possible through collaborative efforts of...
The overuse of antibiotics in livestock and poultry poses a significant risk to human health, according to experts. A growing body of evidence suggests that routine antibiotic use in animal feed can worsen the epidemic of antibiotic resistance, with many public health authorities agreeing that it is a major concern.
A new study by University of Nebraska-Lincoln political scientist Sergio Wals found that Mexican immigrants tend to be centrist or center-right in their political ideologies. Despite historical trends showing the Hispanic vote going Democratic, Wals' research reveals a more diverse political landscape among Mexican immigrants.
Researchers found that excessive PKC beta in endothelial cells exacerbates atherosclerosis, a condition where blood vessel walls thicken due to fatty deposits. This inhibition leads to decreased nitric oxide production, increasing cardiovascular disease risk.
Researchers found that men use heavy terms like 'hammered' for moderate intoxication, while women use lighter terms like 'buzzed.' These findings suggest tailored measures for prevention and intervention could be effective. The study's results have implications for how we perceive and communicate intoxicated states, particularly among ...
A new study by Dr. Jordan Mallon reveals that large plant-eating dinosaurs specialized in eating different types of vegetation to coexist successfully. The research, which analyzed nearly 100 dinosaur skulls, supports the concept of niche partitioning and provides insight into the ecological roles of these ancient creatures.
Consuming artificial sweeteners has been associated with an increased risk of obesity, type 2 diabetes, and metabolic syndrome. Regular consumption can also lead to altered brain activation patterns and overindulgence in high-calorie foods.
A study of 9,000 preschoolers found that those with shorter than average sleep times had higher rates of 'externalizing' behavior problems. The researchers recommend discussing steps to improve sleep habits for children with behavior problems.