NREL's innovations in solar, vehicles and energy efficiency have earned three prestigious R&D 100 Awards. The Image Processing Occupancy Sensor (IPOS) detects heat loss in electric-vehicle batteries with greater accuracy, while high-efficiency silicon solar cells offer improved conversion rates.
A study led by a University of Arizona ecologist found that many species evolve too slowly to adapt to the rapid climate change expected in the next 100 years. Terrestrial vertebrate species appear to evolve too slowly to be able to adapt to the dramatically warmer climate expected by 2100.
Researchers develop a self-contained toilet unit that can treat 1200 users' daily fecal waste using supercritical water oxidation technology. The process produces clean water, heat, and excess energy, making it a sustainable solution for communities in developing countries.
A study of data from Scotland found that abortion was a strong risk factor for subsequent preterm birth in the 1980s, but this link weakened and disappeared over the next 20 years. Modern methods of abortion reduced the risk of spontaneous preterm birth.
Researchers found that participants with cheerful temperaments had a one-third reduction in coronary events, with those at highest risk experiencing nearly a 50% decrease. The study's findings suggest a general sense of well-being can have an actual effect on disease and may lead to better health outcomes.
Researchers developed a new open-source platform to analyze and visualize visual fields, enabling transparent collaboration among independent labs. The platform contains analytical and visualization tools, including methods for glaucoma detection, and can be used for experimentation and research.
University of Illinois bioengineers find way to permanently modify silicone polymer surface with organic material, resulting in stable adhesion for several months. The method enables practical applications in cell culture platforms, microfluidic devices, and tissue engineering.
The lack of transparency in clinical trials has been criticized by Ben Goldacre, who calls for the sharing of Clinical Study Reports to ensure informed decisions about medicines. The problem of missing trials is one of the greatest ethical challenges facing medicine today.
Patients who survived acetaminophen overdose have significantly lower overall health, reporting more days of impaired mental and physical health, pain, anxiety, and depression. The study also found that these patients had higher rates of substance abuse and psychiatric disease compared to non-overdose survivors and transplant recipients.
A recent study published in the American Journal of Neuroradiology found that women with mild cognitive impairment experience higher rates of cognitive decline than men, while all women exhibit greater regional brain loss over time. The study's authors suggest that hormonal differences may play a role in these findings.
A new study published in Foot & Ankle International found a 28.8% decline in lower extremity amputations over the past decade, with advances in diabetic foot ulcer treatments contributing to this decrease. The number of orthopaedic claims for diabetic foot ulcers rose 143.3% during the same period.
A new Cornell University study found US intelligence agents exhibit larger biases in decision making and are more confident than college students. The results suggest that experience can enhance performance but also lead to predictable pitfalls in risky decision-making.
Researchers from NC State University developed techniques to create free-standing structures made of liquid metal at room temperature. They discovered that a liquid metal alloy reacts with oxygen in the air to form a skin, allowing the structures to retain their shapes.
Researchers used MFC and RQ-PCR to monitor minimal residual disease in patients with Ph+ ALL, finding that a negative reading was associated with prolonged survival. The study suggests that these technologies may be effective in predicting patient outcomes and guiding treatment decisions.
A study published in JAMA found that daily soy protein supplementation for two years did not reduce or delay the development of biochemical recurrence of prostate cancer. In fact, the supplement may even accelerate the onset of recurrence by a few weeks.
A new UCSF project creates choirs for seniors in San Francisco to assess the impact of singing on cognitive, mobility, and overall wellbeing. The study aims to provide scientific-based evidence that community arts programs can promote health among older adults.
Researchers have found quantifiable differences in brain structure among children with sensory processing disorders (SPD), which are often overlooked and misunderstood. The study provides a potential biological basis for the disease, using advanced MRI techniques to examine white matter tracts in the brain.
Scientists at the University of Southampton have demonstrated recording and retrieval processes of five-dimensional digital data in nanostructured glass using femtosecond laser writing. The data storage allows for unprecedented parameters, including high data capacity and thermal stability.
According to scientists, cat feces carry an infectious parasite known as Toxoplasma gondii that has linked to various diseases and even mental health issues. The accumulation of oocysts in soil, grass, and water may be a significant public health problem, prompting calls for better cat population control.
Damon Runyon Cancer Research Foundation has named 17 new Fellows, awarding over $2.7 million in grants to early-career researchers conducting innovative cancer research. The recipients will work on novel projects aiming to develop more effective treatments for various cancers.
Scientists have discovered a new species of armored catfish, Pareiorhina hyptiorhachis, in the Rio Paraíba do Sul basin, Brazil. The newly described species is one of the smallest representatives of the catfish order, measuring only about 3-3.5 cm in length.
Researchers at Henry Ford Hospital have successfully integrated robotic ultrasound into kidney cancer surgery, providing direct control for the surgeon. This technology has been shown to reduce the need for assistant guidance and improve precision in measuring tumors from certain angles.
Researchers at University at Buffalo found that estrogen protects female stress resilience, but damages male working memory. The study, published in Molecular Psychiatry, suggests that estrogen hormone produced in the brain may be responsible for this difference.
A UCLA study shows that a four-week program teaching yoga-based breathing practices can significantly reduce impulsive behavior in adolescents, leading to improved emotional regulation and decision-making skills. The program was found to be effective in reducing impulsive acts such as drug abuse, risky sexual behaviors, and violence.
A new study published in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine concludes that US farm subsidy policies contribute to the worsening obesity epidemic by making unhealthy foods affordable for consumers. The study recommends investing in sustainable agriculture and prioritizing public health in agricultural policy.
A recent study found that many obstetrician-gynecologists continue to provide annual cervical-cancer screenings despite updated guidelines. The research suggests less frequent screening every three years can retain most benefits while reducing harms and costs. Experts recommend a more balanced approach to cervical cancer screening.
The US Department of Energy has commissioned the Scaled Wind Farm Technology (SWiFT) facility to investigate and develop technology for wind plants. The facility will host research on improving wind plant performance, with a focus on reducing energy losses due to complex wind interactions.
Researchers have discovered four biomarkers that characterize the non-genetic form of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a devastating motor neuron disease. These biomarkers could lead to earlier and more accurate diagnostics, as well as new directions for therapeutic research.
Researchers found a significant difference in cardiac catheterization rates between New York State and Ontario, with New York performing fewer procedures due to lower obstructive coronary artery disease (CAD) burdens. This selective approach improved diagnostic efficiency while reducing costs.
Tropical Storm Chantal is bringing powerful thunderstorms and heavy rainfall to the Caribbean Sea, with a storm surge of 1-3 feet expected in affected areas. The National Hurricane Center predicts tropical storm conditions will affect Windward Islands today and Puerto Rico tonight or early Wednesday.
A recent study by researchers at the University of Toronto's Rotman School of Management found that avoiding dwelling on problems can actually help individuals manage multiple role responsibilities, such as work, family, and school. This 'mind break' allows people to detach from their concerns and increase their satisfaction.
New interventional cardiac catheterization services in US hospitals have duplicated existing programs and failed to improve patients' access to timely emergency cardiac care. The growth of these services has added to healthcare costs without significant improvements.
Researchers found that particles with mass experience different space-times depending on their direction of motion, while massless particles see the same space-time in all directions. This discovery challenges our understanding of isotropy in the universe.
Research suggests that simultaneous boosting of these hormones can reduce appetite, fat gain, and insulin-resistance in mice. The double-barreled approach stimulates complementary brain regions and nerve pathways, leading to a powerful combined effect.
Rice University scientists have developed a 1-kilobit rewritable silicon oxide device with diodes that eliminate data-corrupting crosstalk. The technique creates a channel of pure metallic phase silicon, allowing for high on/off ratio and multibit switching.
Researchers developed a combined approach of MicroCT-based visualization and microfluidic-based electrochemical analysis to correlate changes in electrode performance with catalyst layer structure. This allows for systematic investigation of electrode-based electrochemical processes and guides electrode optimization for improved cataly...
The study shows that temporal niches promote frequency-dependent selection, allowing diversity among bacterial phenotypes to persist. Alternating environmental conditions help maintain closely-related phenotypes, resulting in higher biodiversity levels.
The H7N9 avian flu strain has a tendency to become established in bird, horse, and swine populations, leading to repeated spillover into humans. The virus's unusual characteristics, such as its ability to mutate and infect conjunctival cells, make it a cause for heightened concern.
Measurements from the 2011 Las Conchas fire show that 'tar ball' effect significantly degrades air quality and contributes to global warming. The team found spherical carbonaceous particles called tar balls dominate emissions, which can increase climate warming by increased light absorption.
Researchers screened patients at a long-term acute care hospital in Virginia for carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriaceae (CRE) and found transmission occurring among patients and between facilities. The study highlights the risk of CRE spread through patient transitions, emphasizing the need for improved infection control measures.
Psychological interventions often don't account for the placebo effect, which can lead to false claims of treatment effectiveness. Researchers found that even with active control groups, expectations for improvement can still be influenced by prior experiences with the training tasks.
Researchers at the University of British Columbia have developed a vaccine to protect birds against West Nile Virus (WNV), which has killed over 300 people in North America. The vaccine, made from WNV components, generated an effective immune response in birds and may also offer protection against other species.
The American Orthopaedic Society for Sports Medicine (AOSSM) recognizes and encourages outstanding research in key areas of orthopaedic sports medicine. This year, AOSSM presented ten research awards and seven grants to support innovative projects, including studies on ACL deficiency, osteoarthritis, and sports injuries.
Researchers at the University of Missouri have found microchimerism in dogs, allowing them to track potential health effects over a shorter lifespan. The study suggests that microchimerism may increase risk of thyroid disease and lower risk of breast cancer in women.
Less than one third of obstetrician-gynecologists vaccinate patients against HPV, while only half follow cervical cancer prevention guidelines. Physician-patient interactions are a major barrier to guideline implementation.
Researchers used GIS software to map Brazil's grain storage facilities and found significant undercapacity, particularly in the northern state of Mato Grosso. The study aims to determine optimal locations for additional storage, addressing postharvest losses and increasing production efficiency.
The European Society of Cardiology emphasizes the need for a resurgence in cardiovascular research and development to address the growing burden of cardiovascular diseases. The society proposes a forum to discuss ways to rejuvenate R&D, including simplifying regulation and increasing EU funding.
A newly discovered threadworm, Pristionchus maxplancki, has been named after physicist Max Planck in recognition of his contributions to the fields of evolution, genetics, and ecology. The worm was discovered on a stag beetle in Japan and is now being studied by researchers at the Max Planck Institute for Developmental Biology.
Mycobacteria have developed a new process called Distributive Conjugal Transfer, which allows them to mix genomes like sexual reproduction. This process enables the creation of patchwork genomes with benefits such as increased variation and adaptability.
A recent Penn study found a significant association between cerebrovascular disease and dementia, particularly in younger patients with Alzheimer's disease. The researchers suggest that early management of vascular risk factors and healthy lifestyles may delay or prevent the onset of dementia due to Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease.
A CSIC study reveals that Japan, China, and South Korea account for 84% of macroalgae patents, highlighting the importance of scientific investment in biotechnology development. The study also suggests that under-invested Asian nations are missing out on market opportunities due to low research efforts.
Researchers have identified a risk factor for autism in children, linking prenatal exposure to maternal antibodies to changes in brain development that affect behavior. The study found altered patterns of neurodevelopment and social behavior in offspring exposed to specific antibodies.
Researchers modeled the influence of Arctic sea ice on temperatures during the Pliocene era, finding that ice-free conditions contributed to surface warming. The study suggests that 400 parts per million atmospheric carbon dioxide concentrations may be sufficient to greatly reduce Arctic sea ice extent and seasonal persistence.
A University of Washington study found that school policies against illicit use are effective only when students perceive enforcement, with lax policies leading to more drinking. Remediation policies, such as counseling and abstinence messages, also reduced binge drinking among ninth-graders.
Typhoon Soulik exhibits a tight concentration of powerful storms surrounding its center, with cloud top temperatures colder than -63F/-52C, indicating heavy rainfall.
Researchers found that changes in human behavior had the greatest influence on the three-wave shape of the 1918 influenza epidemic. Behavioral responses, such as avoiding large gatherings and keeping distance from others, reduced infectious contact rates when recent mortality was high.
A new study suggests that implementing smoke-free laws and increasing tobacco taxes in India can reduce cardiovascular disease deaths, potentially preventing 9 million deaths by 2022. The findings are based on a mathematical model that considered unique populations with different risk factors.
A study published in JAMA found that low vitamin D blood levels are associated with a greater risk of heart disease in whites and Chinese populations, but not in blacks and Hispanics. The researchers suggest that genetic factors may play a role in the varying associations between vitamin D levels and heart disease across different raci...
Researchers have discovered that pilocytic astrocytomas, a common childhood brain tumor, arise from defective activation of the MAPK signaling pathway. The study provides new insights into the disease and potential targets for treatment, including targeted agents to block overactive MAPK signaling.
Astronomers have discovered that the Sun's corona loops appear as a constant width due to an optical illusion, but in reality, they are tapered structures. This finding has significant implications for coronal heating models.
Researchers at TSRI will receive $2 million in funding to investigate the origins of life on Earth, focusing on chirality and replicating systems.
A large Dutch nationwide cohort study found that women giving birth to multiples after IVF treatment have a higher risk of breast cancer. The study suggests a link between high embryo implantation potential and breast cancer risk, with increased levels of VEGF possibly playing a role.
Researchers at LSU Health Sciences Center have found new modes of transmission and associated behaviors for a parasitic lung infection. New cases are reported in the US, particularly among those who consume raw or undercooked freshwater Asian crabs or native crawfish.
A new study by Drs. Paula Trief and Ruth Weinstock found that obese patients with metabolic syndrome who participated in conference call weight loss interventions lost more weight over two years compared to those receiving individual calls. The SHINE model, a telephone adaptation of the DPP intensive lifestyle program, was effective in...
Researchers found that pairing vegetables with flavored dips increased acceptance among children, with 64% finding veggies yummy when paired, compared to 31%. The dip's flavor and type played a significant role in kids' willingness to try vegetables.
Dual antiplatelet therapy with aspirin and a P2Y12 inhibitor significantly improves patient outcomes after coronary stenting. The therapy is associated with reduced risk of in-stent restenosis and stent thrombosis, as well as major adverse cardiac events.
The Ruhr-University Bochum research team has successfully identified the structure of an enkephalin in solution and tracked its interaction with opioid receptors. This discovery provides a precise starting point for developing drugs to combat specific types of pain.
Health info exchange efforts in the US have seen significant growth, with a tripling of participating hospitals and doctor's offices since 2010. However, many organizations struggle to develop sustainable business models and rely on government grants, which will expire in January 2014.
Scientists engineer stem cells using gelatin-based microparticles to deliver growth factors, providing localized control of cell differentiation. This technique reduces the need for growth factor, a crucial cost consideration for manufacturing stem cells.
A new method for improving blood supply to engineered replacement tissues uses laminin-derived peptides in hydrogels, which stimulates the growth of microvascular networks. This technology was tested in a mouse cornea transplant and showed successful cell growth and blood vessel formation.
Researchers at Sanford-Burnham Medical Research Institute have developed nanoparticles that can deliver small interfering RNA molecules to specific cells, effectively silencing malfunctioning genes. The approach points toward new ways to treat diseases such as cancer and heart disease by using RNA interference.
A European-wide study found that prolonged exposure to particulate air pollution increases the risk of lung cancer, particularly adenocarcinoma, at concentrations below EU limit values. The analysis of 17 cohort studies involved over 313,000 people and found a strong association between air pollution and lung cancer risk.
A Baylor University study found that warring couples desire a willingness to relinquish power and share control during conflicts. The top desired behaviors from partners include showing investment, stopping adversarial behavior, and communicating more.
Researchers used sophisticated three-dimensional climate models to solve the 'faint young sun paradox,' explaining how early Earth remained habitable despite a 20% dimmer sun. Moderate greenhouse gas inventories, including 20,000 ppm of CO2 and 1,000 ppm of methane, may have sustained liquid water and primitive life.
A new study from the University of Missouri and Georgia Tech University found that over-confident CEOs can make risky decisions about mergers and acquisitions, putting investors' funds at risk. Independent boards with good management skills are crucial to mitigate this risk.
Researchers found that infants with later-diagnosed autism had excessive cerebrospinal fluid and enlarged brains, raising the possibility of using these as potential biomarkers. These anomalies were detectable by MRI at 6-9 months and remained elevated between 18-24 months.
A study of almost 10,000 first cycles of egg donation treatment found that female obesity reduces uterine receptivity to embryo implantation, compromising reproductive outcome. Obese women had significantly lower rates of embryo implantation, pregnancy, twin pregnancy, and live birth compared to normal-weight women.
A study comparing Medicare Advantage and fee-for-service beneficiaries found significantly lower rates of angiography and percutaneous coronary interventions among Medicare Advantage patients. The researchers also identified substantial geographic variation in procedure rates for both payment types.
Archaeologists at Hebrew University of Jerusalem uncovered a Sphinx fragment belonging to pharaoh Mycerinus, who ruled over 4,000 years ago. The find is significant as it is the only known Sphinx of this king discovered worldwide.
New research reveals that muscle power comes from multiple directions, including radial forces, which were previously overlooked. The study's findings have significant implications for understanding normal and pathological aspects of muscle function, including cardiac diseases.
A study of egg banking for anticipated gamete exhaustion found that many women believe they'll never use their stored eggs, but still consider the experience positive. Most wish they had done so at an earlier age to preserve fertility.
A survey of 652 individuals in Texas found that 74% were familiar with the state's sex offender registry, but only 43% had accessed it. Only 17% took protective measures after using the registry, mostly due to concerns for their safety or children's safety.
A large UK cohort study found that children born through assisted reproduction have no higher cancer risk than naturally conceived children. However, rare cancer types were associated with low birth weight and small absolute excess risks.
Researchers have used innovative radar analysis to accurately image the vast subglacial water system under Thwaites Glacier, a Florida-sized outlet glacier in Antarctica. The findings suggest that the dynamics of this water system may play a crucial role in predicting the fate of the glacier.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins University have discovered that reversible chemical tags attached to the PTEN protein can regulate its activity. When these phosphate groups are bound, PTEN becomes inactive, suppressing cell division and migration. This finding may lead to new options for drug design to keep PTEN working.
Scientists from the University of Vienna have successfully integrated graphene into metal silicide technology, preserving its unique properties. The new structure shows promising results for applications in semiconductor devices, spintronics, photovoltaics, and thermoelectrics.
A meta-analysis of studies found that women working shifts experience a higher rate of menstrual disruption (33% increase) and subfertility (80% increase), while night shift work only increases the risk of miscarriage. The study suggests that altering circadian rhythms can lead to short- and long-term biological disturbances.
Researchers evaluated past H7 subtype influenza viruses among mammals and birds, comparing them to other avian influenza viruses. While none have caused a human pandemic since 1918, some adapted to infect horses, raising concerns about potential adaptation to humans.
A 2011 outbreak of Pseudomonas aeruginosa infections at Beaumont Health System was attributed to contaminated ultrasound gel. The investigation highlighted the need for increased scrutiny of medical products and led to proposed guidelines for sterile ultrasound gel usage.
A new University of South Florida study explores the relationship between caregiver sleep and heart disease, testing an innovative night monitoring system to improve sleep quality and overall health. The research seeks to determine if better sleep can lower the risk of heart disease in caregivers caring for people with dementia.
The Kessler Foundation received significant funding for research on spinal cord injuries, including studies on assisted walking with Ekso and the impact of aging on cardiovascular health. The grants will help advance therapies that improve function and quality of life for individuals with SCI.
Tropical Depression Erick has reduced in strength and size, with strong convection diminishing greatly since July 8. It is expected to gradually spin down and become a remnant low-pressure area later today due to moving over even cooler waters.
A systematic review found that short-term air pollutant exposure raises the risk of heart failure hospitalization and death. Modest reductions in major pollutants could prevent thousands of hospitalizations and save millions annually.
Despite improvements, more than 40% of postmarketing studies had not yet been started by 2011, and the proportion of fulfilled studies remains low. The number of studies with delays doubled to approximately 1 in 8 as of 2011.
A large multiethnic population study found that low vitamin D levels are associated with increased coronary heart disease events among white and Chinese participants but not black or Hispanic participants. The findings suggest that the risks and benefits of vitamin D supplementation should be evaluated carefully across race and ethnicity.
Researchers have identified a specific risk factor for autism, known as MAR autism, linked to maternal antibodies attacking fetal brain proteins. The study found that mothers of children with autism were more than 21 times likely to have these antibodies, offering a potential biomarker for drug development and early diagnosis.
Researchers found that introducing solid foods before 4 months increases Type 1 diabetes risk, while breast-feeding reduces it. The study suggests parents wait until after 4 months and introduce solid foods by 6 months or soon after with breastfeeding to lower the risk.
A new study found that birds can survive climate change through phenotypic plasticity, a flexibility in behavior. This adaptation enables them to track environmental changes, increasing their chances of survival. However, slow-reproducing species are more vulnerable to extinction due to the need for precise adaptations.