Researchers at Michigan State University found a link between the prefrontal cortex and learning and behavioral deficits in mice with mental illness genes. This study suggests targeting specific brain-behavior mechanisms may alleviate cognitive and motivational symptoms.
Researchers at McGill University have found that cranberry derivatives can inhibit bacteria from sticking to surfaces, potentially preventing infections in medical devices such as catheters. The study's findings also suggest that cranberries may play a role in preventing chronic infections, which are a major public health concern.
Researchers from the University of Alberta have developed a test to detect pathogenic E. coli in meat at food processing facilities, improving safety and reducing costs. The device is easy to use and can provide results in under an hour, making it an exciting application for the food industry.
Research from the University of Warwick found that most very preterm and low birthweight infants were securely attached to their parents. However, they had a higher risk for disorganised attachment due to underlying neurological abnormalities. This contradicts the assumption that disorganised attachment is solely linked to parental sen...
A study at WashU Medicine distinguished between viral and bacterial infections in children with fever using gene profiling, achieving a 90% accuracy rate. This new method could help identify the cause of illness and ensure targeted treatment.
New research suggests that a father's obesity can lead to obesity and diabetes-like symptoms in his children and grandchildren. The study found molecular signals in the sperm of obese fathers can program embryos for obesity or metabolic disease later in life.
Mercedes Richards, a professor at Penn State University, is being recognized for her groundbreaking research on interacting binary stars. She uses computer models and movies to illustrate how these stars interact, and has made both 2D and 3D images of the gravitational flow of gas between stars in any interacting binary-star system. Ri...
Researchers at Boston College and Nagoya University have synthesized the first example of a new form of carbon, grossly warped graphene, which alters its physical, optical and electronic properties. The new material consists of multiple identical pieces of warped graphene with exactly 80 carbon atoms joined together in a network of 26 ...
Gay men are more than 15 times as likely to develop genital cancer as straight men due to HPV infection. Targeted vaccination is recommended for those aged up to 26 years, with sexual health clinics ideal for offering the vaccine.
Biologists discovered that female túngara frogs can be tricked into perceiving an unattractive call as attractive when a robotic frog adds a delayed visual cue. This study demonstrates how evolution may create complex traits by combining simpler ones, similar to how adding white noise improves human perception of sounds.
Scientists have developed a new technique to calculate wind speeds of hurricanes using distorted GPS satellite signals, providing valuable information at little additional cost. The method offers a broader view of wind speeds than traditional dropsonde measurements, which are expensive and only available over large bodies of water.
A new study found that early spatial reasoning skills at age 13 predict creative and innovative achievements, especially in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) domains. This unique skill contributes to the development of new knowledge and innovation above traditional measures of mathematical and verbal ability.
A new study found a positive link between diet high in sugar and fat and an increased risk of colorectal cancer. Researchers identified new dietary risk factors, including fizzy drinks, cakes, and high-energy snack foods, that were associated with an increased risk of bowel cancer.
The new GOES-R series of satellites will offer enhanced imaging capabilities, providing full-disk images every five minutes. This increased resolution and frequency will enable more timely and accurate weather forecasting in the Western Hemisphere.
Researchers found that temporal characteristics, particularly bursts of activation events, significantly impact diffusion processes. This new understanding can help build more accurate metrics for analyzing real-world network data.
Researchers have visualized the mechanism of mRNA localization in cells, revealing how a unique 'zip code' signal ensures protein production at the right place and time. The study provides new insights into cellular function and has potential applications for understanding diseases such as spinal muscular atrophy and Alzheimer's.
A new study shows that everolimus dramatically reduces seizures in patients with tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC), a genetic disease characterized by benign tumors on multiple organ systems. The drug also improves overall quality of life, with significant reductions in seizure frequency and duration.
A recent study published in Nature Communications has shed light on the genetic adaptations of the ground tit, a small bird thriving in one of the most hostile environments on earth. The research reveals key modifications in its genome that enable it to cope with extreme living conditions and survival strategies.
A clinical trial found that music significantly reduced children's reported pain and distress during IV procedures. The study also showed improved satisfaction levels for parents and healthcare providers. Researchers hope to continue exploring the benefits of music as a distraction from pain.
Scientists have observed magnetic reconnection at the heart of solar flares and coronal mass ejections, which can affect satellites near Earth. The high-quality data from NASA's SDO and RHESSI spacecraft reveals a complex process involving charged particles, magnetic field lines, and plasma.
Research shows that phytoplankton form concentrated patches in turbulent ocean water, counterintuitive to expectations of uniform distribution. This phenomenon, known as 'turbulent un-mixing,' helps phytoplankton find cells of the same species without sensory information.
A recent study published in the American Heart Association journal found that elevated blood pressure rates rose by 27% in children and adolescents over a 13-year period. The research highlights the link between high body mass, larger waistlines, and excessive sodium intake as contributing factors to this trend.
Scientists are facing a digital bottleneck in assembling genetic data, which is being produced at an unprecedented rate. Computing solutions are needed to address this issue, including clever algorithms and harnessing more computing power. The article highlights the need for innovative solutions to overcome this challenge.
A new study suggests that using free market platforms to combat climate change can be as effective as mandatory emissions cap and trade schemes. Researchers monitored the European Climate Exchange and found it efficient in reducing carbon emissions.
Researchers have characterised new sequences of endogenous retroviruses in polar bears and pandas, dating back 45 million years. The viruses are suspected to play a role in human diseases such as cancer and neurodegenerative disorders.
Scientists have solved a key piece of the puzzle on how BRCA1 gene mutations predispose women to breast and ovarian cancers. The answer lies in the way estrogen rushes in to rescue damaged cells whose healthy functioning has been altered by oxidative stress.
Researchers found that female motivation to help offspring and attractiveness significantly influence the outcome of intersexual conflicts in wild bonobos. Attractive females are more likely to win conflicts against males, with males displaying reduced aggression during times of elevated fecundity.
A recent study by the University of Edinburgh found significant ethnic differences in hospitalizations for mental health problems in Scotland. The researchers suggest that psychiatric and mental health services should be reviewed to address these disparities and ensure early access to treatment for minority groups.
A study published in Neural Regeneration Research found that paeonol, a natural compound, attenuates inflammation-mediated neurotoxicity and microglial activation. This suggests that paeonol may be effective in treating neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's.
Researchers have identified a gene that enables Jatropha, a potential biofuel plant, to withstand drought. The study found that the JcPIP1 gene plays a crucial role in recovery from damage, while JcPIP2 may help prevent drought stress.
Dr. Valentin Fuster received the 2013 SCCT Arthur S. Agatston Cardiovascular Disease Prevention Award for his groundbreaking work on atherosclerosis development and prevention of coronary artery disease. The award honors Dr. Fuster's pioneering efforts in uncovering the molecular and cellular bases of atherosclerosis.
A University of Missouri researcher has developed an intervention to help adults with hearing impairments acclimate to hearing aids. The intervention aims to reduce the stigma associated with wearing hearing aids and increase their use among this population.
A study published in Journal of Marriage and Family found that flexible working schemes like ROWE led to increased schedule control for mothers, but did not change the actual amount of time spent with children. Mothers reported eating one additional family meal with their children compared to those in traditional departments.
Research found that JNK3 expression is downregulated after traumatic brain injury, which may be associated with apoptosis of nerve cells. This downregulation could promote the recovery of neurological function following traumatic brain injury.
A study published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal found higher rates of complications in blood-based resuscitation compared to conventional resuscitation, with no difference in mortality rates. Researchers led by Dr. Sandro Rizoli recommend larger trials to confirm findings and explore alternatives.
Researchers at UC Davis show that individual protein molecules can restart at any speed achieved by the whole population of enzymes, demonstrating the ergodic theorem. This finding has implications for understanding protein folding, drug interactions, and enzyme engineering.
Researchers have discovered that cancer cells can fuse with blood cells, enabling them to travel through the body and seed new tumors. This breakthrough has major implications for treating metastatic cancers.
Researchers have developed a new graphene technique that significantly increases lithium-ion battery storage capacity by combining graphene nanoribbons with tin oxide. The resulting prototype battery retains more than double the capacity of standard graphite anodes after repeated charge-discharge cycles.
A new study suggests that Chinese people are at a higher risk of stroke than Caucasians. The research found a slightly higher overall risk of stroke in Chinese people, with a range of 205 to 584 strokes per 100,000 Chinese people age 45 to 74 compared to 170 to 335 strokes per 100,000 Caucasian people in the same age group.
A study published in Spine highlights the increased risk of complications among Medicaid beneficiaries after spinal surgery, even after adjusting for other factors. The researchers found that Medicaid recipients were 68% more likely to experience adverse outcomes than patients with private insurance.
Researchers link black-legged ticks to an increased risk of Powassan encephalitis, a rare but serious illness with a 10-15% fatality rate. The study found deer tick virus in over 13,500 ticks, with infected adult ticks concentrated east of the Hudson River.
A new 'conversation guide' aims to increase physicians' confidence in engaging patients in meaningful end-of-life discussions. The framework provides structured guidance on identifying high-risk patients, communicating prognosis, and involving substitute decision-makers.
A University of Colorado study shows that luteolin, a common autism supplement, blocks progesterone's action but promotes estrogen-stimulated breast cancer growth. The findings highlight the need for caution when consuming flavonoid supplements, as their effects on the endocrine system are not yet fully understood.
Typhoon Soulik maintained its eye just before making landfall in southeastern China on July 13, and NASA's Terra satellite captured the eye in an image. The storm caused hundreds of deaths and missing due to heavy rainfall in southern China.
Researchers at the University of Notre Dame have identified the importance of Wnt proteins and ARF6 in cancer cell signaling. The studies found that ARF6 can propagate Wnt signaling, leading to proliferation in epithelial tumors and melanoma spread. This understanding offers potential target molecules for cancer drug development.
Recent studies have found chemotherapy-associated adverse neurological effects, including vascular complications and neuropathic pains. Chemotherapy triggers changes in ion channels on dorsal root ganglia, resulting in secondary changes that affect neurogenesis and plasticity.
Prosthetic valve endocarditis is associated with significant morbidity and mortality, and early surgery does not appear to reduce one-year mortality compared to medical therapy. Approximately one-third of patients die within one year after diagnosis, mainly due to complications such as S aureus infection.
A new study published in Pediatrics reveals that over 25% of children with cerebral palsy suffer from moderate to severe chronic pain, limiting their activity. Pediatricians should focus on identifying and treating the underlying causes of pain to improve health and quality of life for these children.
Researchers at Vienna University of Technology have developed a method to steer the radiation emitted by a random laser into a pre-determined direction. This breakthrough allows for the creation of a new type of light source with potentially useful applications.
Researchers found that mice lacking the monoamine oxidase A and B enzymes displayed increased fear and generalized phobia to new contexts. This study suggests a correlation between MAO enzyme deficiency and autistic-like features, highlighting potential avenues for developing interventions for neuropsychiatric disorders.
A recent study outlines the intricate social hierarchy of California condors, highlighting the importance of dominance within the group. The research, conducted with the use of new technologies, reveals that individual birds must successfully integrate into the structure to ensure survivability.
Scientists have developed a method to generate functional blood vessels lasting up to nine months using human induced pluripotent stem cells. The breakthrough could lead to new treatments for cardiovascular disease and diabetes.
Researchers aim to identify genetic elements that enable animal hepatitis E strains to infect humans, with potential implications for fighting cross-species virus infections. The study will also investigate host immune factors that defend against the virus.
Research identifies a link between the FTO gene and increased hunger-stimulating hormone production in individuals prone to obesity. Additionally, studies show that adult brown fat levels increase with cold exposure, which may provide a new strategy for combating obesity.
A USGS study reveals that threatened loggerhead sea turtles in the northern Gulf of Mexico require broader habitat protection to recover. The research shows that female turtles visit multiple beaches, sometimes hundreds of miles apart, during their reproductive periods.
The new NIST handbook provides a comprehensive guide for planning, designing, constructing, and relocating forensic science laboratories. The document outlines the four-phase cycle for creating new laboratory space and includes tools to support each phase.
A new conversation guide aims to improve physicians' ability to discuss end-of-life care with patients, addressing the growing need for sensitive discussions due to an aging population and chronic illness. The guide provides practical advice on identifying high-risk patients, communicating prognosis, and clarifying patient values.
A randomized trial found that a 1:1:1 blood transfusion protocol is feasible but associated with higher waste of plasma. The study suggests that widespread adoption may lead to significant resource and safety implications due to the scarcity of plasma.
A pilot study from North Carolina State University found that switching seats can keep middle school students engaged in educational gaming tasks. The researchers discovered that the student actively playing the game stayed focused, while the second student on the team often lost interest.
The program aims to study exotic invasive pests and develop sustainable approaches to counter problem organisms threatening biodiversity in central and southern Texas. Researchers will focus on native ant species, such as the fire ant, tawny crazy ant, and Cactoblastis moth, to improve competitiveness of native species.
Researchers used fMRI to investigate the neural origins of hot flashes in postmenopausal women. They found that activity in brain regions like the brain stem and insula rises before and after the hot flash, respectively. The study provides novel insights into the complex brain mechanisms underlying this common menopause symptom.
A new study published in PLOS ONE suggests that standardized vascular health checks could improve health outcomes and reduce costs in Germany, the UK, France, Denmark, Italy, and Poland. The study used the Archimedes Model to simulate a clinical trial comparing seven health check strategies to current levels of care.
Dr. Immanuel Bloch will receive the 2013 Körber European Science Prize for his groundbreaking research on lattice-trapped ultracold atoms, enabling precise monitoring of solid structures and potential applications in superconductors and quantum information processing. The prize includes €750,000 to support his research activities.
A new study estimates that global sea levels will rise 2.3 meters over the next several thousand years for every degree Celsius the planet warms. The four major contributors to sea-level rise on a global scale are melting of glaciers, Greenland ice sheet, Antarctic ice sheet, and ocean expansion as it warms.
Researchers generated a comprehensive list of cancer-specific genetic variations and made them available to the public. The extensive data set has the potential to dramatically enhance understanding of relationships between specific cancer-related genetic variations and drug response.
A study reveals that the acetylcholine-activated inward-rectifying potassium current (IKACh) plays a critical role in regulating cardiac pacemaker activity and heart rate. The research found that mice lacking IKACh displayed a moderate increase in resting heart rate and delayed recovery after stress or exercise.
Long-term aspirin use has been linked to reduced colorectal cancer risk, but alternate-day dosing shows increased gastrointestinal bleeding. Electronic health records adoption led to ambulatory cost savings of 3% per member per month and reductions in radiology costs in experimental pilot communities.
Researchers have identified a new chemical compound, CYM51010, that targets the opioid receptor complex and shows promise as an alternative to morphine. The compound is potent and less likely to result in tolerance and negative side effects.
A study from the University of Michigan found that electronic health records can slow the rise of healthcare costs, with a 3% savings in outpatient care compared to traditional paper records. The study examined data from nine communities and estimated $5.14 in savings per patient per month.
A recent study at Rhode Island Hospital found that acute aortic dissection repair performed in the waning full moon reduces the odds of death, while full moon cycles are associated with shorter length of stay. The study's findings suggest that lunar cycles may play a role in cardiac patient outcomes.
Researchers found that amyloid plaque accumulation in the temporal lobe, rather than total amount, is associated with cognitive decline. This pattern of progression may serve as a more powerful biomarker for early detection of Alzheimer's disease.
A new study found ACS NSQIP hospitals have consistently lower mortality rates for complex surgical procedures compared to non-ACS NSQIP hospitals. The difference in one-year mortality rates was 16%, indicating faster improvement in outcomes at ACS NSQIP hospitals.
A study found that the 'obesity-risk' FTO allele alters hunger-stimulating hormone production, leading to increased food consumption and satiety impairment. The research also reveals a direct link between FTO and ghrelin mRNA demethylation, providing new insights into obesity development.
Researchers at Monash University have developed an ionic liquid-based thermocell that can harness waste heat from power stations and vehicle exhaust pipes to generate electricity.
The newly discovered moon, S/2004 N 1, is estimated to be 12 miles across and is the smallest known moon orbiting Neptune. It was found using archival images taken by Hubble from 2004 to 2009 and noticed a white dot between the orbits of Neptunian moons Larissa and Proteus.
Researchers at The Wistar Institute found that sequential vaccination with distinct influenza strains can stimulate immune responses against multiple strains. This approach offers an alternative to creating a universal flu vaccine by targeting conserved regions of the virus, potentially providing long-term immunity.