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.