Consumers tend to prefer products organized by benefits rather than features, as it leads to lower prices and perceived similarity. This can result in consumers sacrificing quality for price, but also makes it harder to notice differences between products.
Physicians at UH Case Medical Center are enrolling patients in the ROADSTER Study, a global clinical trial testing the Silk Road System, a minimally invasive procedure to clear carotid artery blockages. The trial aims to demonstrate the safety and efficacy of this innovative treatment option for high-risk patients.
A recent study by UCSB researchers found that parasites add layers of complexity and density to food webs. Their complex life cycles and interactions with hosts also make them a crucial part of the food web ecosystem.
Researchers have documented a new mixed language, Light Warlpiri, generated from a combination of elements from three languages. This innovative language features verb and noun structures not found in the source languages, showcasing the creative potential of human language formation.
Researchers found a striking resemblance between white matter brain abnormalities in concussion patients and those seen in early Alzheimer's dementia. The study suggests that the true problem facing concussion patients may be their brain's response to injury, rather than the injury itself.
A recent study by Oregon State University researchers suggests that small hydropower projects supported by the Kyoto Protocol can have significant losses of habitat and biodiversity. The cumulative damage caused by small dams is worse than their larger counterparts in certain environmental impacts.
A creative storytelling program called TimeSlips helps medical students see people with dementia as fully-fledged individuals, rather than just diagnoses. The program, which encourages participants to use their imagination and share stories in poem form, leads to significant improvements in student attitudes towards dementia patients.
A recent study published in the International Journal of Obesity highlights the critical role of parenting style and home environment in shaping children's physical activity levels and dietary habits. The researchers found that a healthy home environment and parental role modeling are essential for promoting healthy behaviors in kids, ...
Researchers found that urban-born blackbirds waited longer to approach new objects and tended to avoid unfamiliar ones compared to their rural counterparts. This suggests that urbanization may have an underlying evolutionary impact on the development of distinct personalities in birds.
Researchers at the University of Washington have developed a low-cost fiber-optic pen that tracks brain activity in real-time while children with learning disabilities read and write. The device, which costs less than $100, allows scientists to study the neural connections involved in writing and reading.
A study found that MRI screening at the injection site can detect fungal spinal and paraspinal infections earlier, allowing for timely medical and surgical treatment. The researchers recommend obtaining contrast-enhanced MRI of the injection site in patients with persistent back pain.
Researchers developed a new risk assessment scoring system that better identifies high-risk adults, especially African Americans, for developing type 2 diabetes and heart disease. The scoring system considers sex and racial-ethnic differences, leading to earlier prevention and treatment.
A team of researchers at the University of New South Wales has proposed a new way to distinguish between quantum bits placed only a few nanometres apart, resolving two key technical challenges. The method involves using individual phosphorus atoms in silicon chips, allowing for precise control and operation of qubits.
Researchers at Gladstone Institutes discovered how one protein regulates fundamental circadian processes and maintains metabolic health, shedding light on the molecular basis for metabolic health and disease. The study found that p75NTR production oscillates in time with the body's natural circadian clock.
Researchers detected a new virus, CyCV-VN, in 4% of patients with central nervous system infections and up to 58% of farm animal fecal samples, raising concerns about animal-to-human transmission
A novel clinical trial is evaluating the use of patient-derived stem cells to improve blood flow and prevent major amputations in patients with severe peripheral arterial disease. The trial aims to reduce mortality rates associated with limb loss, which affects over 160,000 people annually.
Researchers have identified a new virus, CyCV-VN, in patients with severe brain infections in Vietnam. The virus was found in 28 out of 644 patients, but not in those with non-infectious brain disorders. Further research is needed to determine its role in causing the symptoms.
A study by LA BioMed found that men who get more sleep on the weekend can improve their insulin sensitivity, reducing their risk of developing type 2 diabetes. The research, conducted over six months, involved 19 non-diabetic men who slept an average of 6.2 hours per night during the week and caught up on sleep on weekends.
Researchers propose a new framework for evaluating surgical procedures and implantable devices using clinical trials, observational databases, and registries. The framework aims to address the current lack of evidence-based research in surgery and device fields, where innovative techniques need to be evaluated.
A study found that state healthcare price websites have room for improvement to better inform patients about out-of-pocket costs. The researchers recommend focusing on predictable services with deductibles and presenting quality information alongside prices.
A study published in PLOS Medicine found that twice weekly iron supplementation is equally effective to daily supplementation in improving birth weight and infant growth outcomes. In contrast, it showed improved cognitive development in infants aged six months and higher adherence rates among pregnant women.
A team of scientists at Harvard University and the University of Illinois successfully printed tiny lithium-ion microbatteries using 3D printing technology. The batteries have comparable electrochemical performance to commercial batteries but are much smaller in scale.
The NOAA is predicting a record-setting deadzone in the Gulf of Mexico, spanning between 7,286 and 8,561 square miles. This would be among the largest ever recorded, potentially affecting commercially important fisheries and the regional economy.
Researchers at the University of Alaska Fairbanks have discovered a novel biomarker that can accurately measure long-term sugar intake from a single blood or hair sample. This breakthrough tool is distinct in corn and sugar cane, which are sources of nearly all sugars found in sugar-sweetened beverages.
A randomized trial found that the MMR booster vaccination did not worsen disease activity in patients with juvenile idiopathic arthritis. The researchers also observed higher antibody concentrations and seroprotection rates after vaccination.
A study of nearly 60,000 patients with acute ischemic stroke found that faster thrombolytic treatment was associated with lower mortality and improved walking ability at discharge. The study suggests accelerating patient presentation and streamlining healthcare systems to reduce treatment times can improve outcomes.
Researchers link climate changes to bursts of technological innovation and population growth in sub-Saharan Africa. The study suggests that sudden climate shifts led to the emergence of modern human culture, symbol expression, and agriculture.
A recent study published in the Journal of Consumer Research found that consumers who receive unearned preferential treatment, such as free samples or upgrades, are less satisfied than those who do not. The authors suggest that companies should consider reaching consumers privately when giving away rewards to avoid social discomfort.
Researchers at the University of Calgary found that platelets actively search for specific bacteria and seal them off from the body, reducing the risk of infection. This mechanism is crucial in combating harmful bacteria like MRSA, which can lead to serious conditions.
A new study published in Psychological Science found that individuals' beliefs about the primary cause of obesity predict their actual body mass index (BMI) and eating habits. The researchers discovered that those who attribute obesity to a lack of exercise tend to eat more, whereas those who link it to diet consume less.
Researchers are working to replace expensive platinum catalysts with non-precious materials, reducing the cost of fuel cells and making them more viable for mass production. The goal is to eliminate platinum completely, which would significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions and dependence on oil.
A recent Michigan Medicine study found that most state websites offering health care prices rarely provide information relevant or usable for consumers. The study analyzed 62 public websites and found that most only reported billed charges, not actual patient costs, with limited focus on outpatient services.
Researchers found that men with haplogroup I have lower numbers of copies of two important genes in macrophages, which may contribute to increased risk of coronary artery disease. The study used a sample of around 2,000 men from four European populations and aimed to decipher the genetic background behind the association.
A new study by the University of East Anglia reveals that pay-to-delay deals can lead to significantly higher prices for generic versions of drugs, harming consumer welfare and health services. The research suggests that moves to investigate and ban such agreements are justified due to anti-competitive practices.
A systematic review and meta-analysis published in The Lancet found that the world's poorest children are twice as likely to contract malaria as their better-off counterparts. Investing in socioeconomic development, such as improved education and nutrition, is crucial to controlling and eliminating malaria.
A new study confirms that the body generates hydrogen sulfide (H2S) as a signaling molecule for cardiovascular health. The researchers developed a chemical probe that reacts with H2S and allows them to visualize its presence in live human cells.
Researchers at Brandeis University have developed a sophisticated computational model that helps scientists understand how viruses spread by analyzing genomic data, virus structure, and capsid formation. The team's tool predicts key structural features of the virus genome and controls capsid assembly.
Researchers found that a combination of two proteins, S100B and apoA-1, helps most accurately classify head injuries. This study provides significant evidence for the potential use of blood tests in diagnosing mild traumatic brain injury.
A study found that seating arrangements impact consumers' responses to persuasive messages, with circular arrangements favoring belonging-based messaging and angular arrangements favoring uniqueness-based messaging. This knowledge can inform various settings, such as restaurants and public transit.
Six new papers in Geosphere explore the geology of North America, focusing on the Colorado River sediment budget and its link to uplift and erosion. The papers also examine the magmatism, ash-flow tuffs, and calderas of the western Nevada volcanic field, shedding light on ignimbrite chronology and caldera formation.
A new study from Harvard School of Public Health found that women exposed to high levels of air pollution while pregnant were up to twice as likely to have a child with autism. The study examined data from over 116,000 nurses and found associations between air pollution and autism risk in children.
Researchers at UT Dallas discovered that lung cancer cells consume more oxygen and synthesize a critical chemical called heme, which can be exploited to inhibit cancer growth. Inhibiting heme synthesis affects lung cancer cells' ability to proliferate and migrate.
A new study found that the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (ACS NSQIP) is more accurate than administrative data for tracking 30-day hospital readmissions. The study analyzed colorectal surgical patients and found that 30% of readmissions could be prevented with accurate tracking, potentially ...
The University of Southern Denmark has established a new Center for Bioanalytical Sciences with funding from the VILLUM Foundation. The center will support interdisciplinary biological research using advanced equipment and computational platforms.
A new social media initiative helped boost organ donor registration rates in the US, with a 21.1-fold increase on the first day of the campaign. The study suggests that social media can be an effective tool for tackling public health problems related to communication and education.
A new study assesses whether racial attitudes contribute to Tea Party membership, finding that both members and non-members are driven by race. The authors conclude that President Obama's presidency triggers symbolic racism and racial stereotypes among the population.
Researchers at Loyola University Chicago will study whether vitamin D supplementation can improve mood and blood pressure in women with Type 2 diabetes and symptoms of depression. The six-month study aims to explore the potential benefits of vitamin D as an antidepressant therapy.
A study from the University of Adelaide found South Australian women are mildly iodine deficient despite the inclusion of iodized salt in bread. Women taking an iodine supplement during pregnancy received healthy levels of iodine, while those not taking a supplement suffered from deficiency.
Research findings suggest that active smoking significantly increases perioperative complications, including intraoperative blood loss, delayed wound healing, and adverse cardiopulmonary effects. Neurosurgeons are urged to advise patients to quit smoking before surgery to minimize risks.
A recent study published in Oncogene identified a biochemical pathway in cancer stem cells that is essential for promoting head and neck cancer. The study shows that the Nanog protein, normally active in embryonic stem cells, promotes the growth of cancer stem cells in head and neck cancer.
Dr. Graeme Bell has been awarded the 2013 Banting Medal for his pioneering work in understanding the role of genetics in diagnosing and treating diabetes. His research focuses on the biology of insulin-secreting pancreatic beta-cells and the use of genetics to personalize treatment.
Researchers have discovered a crucial signaling network between EGFR and MCM7 proteins, which plays a key role in DNA replication and cell growth. In breast cancer patients, high expression of Lyn and MCM7 is associated with reduced survival rates, highlighting a potential new target for cancer therapy.
A new study published in the Journal of Consumer Research found that consumers are more likely to pursue goals when they set flexible, high-low range goals. This flexibility increases the challenge of the goal while also making it attainable, leading to a greater sense of accomplishment and higher reengagement rates.
Researchers analyzed data from over 50,000 stroke patients to determine the critical time gap between stroke onset and treatment initiation. For every 15-minute faster interval of treatment, patients were more likely to go home, walk at discharge, and have fewer symptoms.
A multicenter European study found that short-term hormonal therapy for transsexualism is effective and safe, with few side effects. The treatment, which involves large doses of male or female sex hormones, was shown to be effective in changing the external characteristics of trans individuals.
Research suggests that social stress can lead to increased metabolism in breast fat cells, which in turn stimulates nearby pre-cancerous cells to proliferate more rapidly. This local effect of fat cells in the breast may contribute to the development of triple-negative breast cancer.
The Centre for Addiction and Mental Health has released a summary report highlighting the need for improved policies to address drinking behaviours in Ontario. The report recommends 10 policy improvements to decrease alcohol-related harms and costs in the province.
Marc Torrent, a researcher at the Medical Research Council, has been recognized for his outstanding work on antimicrobial regions in proteins and aggregation properties of antimicrobial peptides. His algorithm prediction tool is being applied to full genomes to identify new peptide leads.
A study by Dr. Daniel Boduszek reveals substantial empirical evidence linking psychopathy to increased criminal behavior and recidivism. The research also identifies the Interpersonal-Affective traits of psychopathy as a key factor in instrumental violence among offenders.
A personality test conducted on grey mouse lemurs found distinct personalities among the animals, with some exhibiting shy behavior and others being bold. The study aims to improve breeding programs and reintroduction efforts for these endangered primates.
Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center used MRI to measure aortic atherosclerosis and found that thicker walls were associated with a higher risk of cardiovascular events, including heart attacks. A smaller plaque buildup was linked to increased risk of peripheral vascular occlusion, stroke, and abdominal aortic aneurysms.
A UT Arlington environmental engineer is investigating the best methods to add monochloramine to water in the pipeline to eliminate biological growths and invasive species. The research aims to ensure efficient water delivery and last-long duration for the pipeline, benefiting over 4.4 million people in North Texas.
Researchers discovered that glycans can order the random network of water molecules above them, creating clusters or layers. This effect may help synovial fluid lubricate joints and influence how receptors recognize glycan coats on cells.
A team of neuroscientists mapped brain-cell activity in fruit flies to understand smell recognition. They found that a small number of neurons are required to distinguish between different odors, suggesting the importance of sparseness in signal transmission.
Consumers prefer appetizers served first when dining with others, as the beginning of the experience influences their overall judgment. This study highlights the importance of considering social context in consumption experiences, such as restaurants and museums.
Researchers have synthesized peptides that change shape upon irradiation with light, allowing control of protein-protein interactions and endocytosis. These molecules have immediate applicability for studying cancer cells and developmental biology, paving the way for optopharmacology and personalized medicine.
Researchers found that interactions between tau and amyloid-beta proteins in the brain may worsen Alzheimer's disease progression. The study identified the presence of these protein complexes in human brain tissue and mouse brains with Alzheimer's, suggesting a potential key to understanding the disease.
Research suggests that improved training in communication and interpersonal skills may help improve health, immune function, and reduce the spread of HIV. Patients who feel respected by their physicians are more likely to keep scheduled appointments and adhere to medical regimens.
A research team at UCSF has found that exposure to nitrogen dioxide during infancy is strongly linked with later development of childhood asthma among African Americans and Latinos. The study indicates that traffic-related pollution might be a cause of the disease, calling for tightened U.S government standards for annual exposure to NO2.
A survey of adult South African men found that approximately one in 20 reported consensual sex with a man, while one in ten reported being sexually assaulted by another man. The study highlights the need for targeted HIV prevention messages and addressing male-on-male sexual violence.
University of Granada Professor Javier Alba-Tercedor has won the Best Film award for his detailed images of a domestic fly's inside using microtomography. The high-resolution scans were made possible by a Skyscan 1172 micro-CT instrument, achieving 1.4 µm per pixel resolution.
A recent study by Indiana University found that while academics' TED Talks receive more comments and views than non-academics', the videos do not lead to an increase in citations among peers. The researchers suggest the Matthew Effect may be at play, where already recognized scholars are chosen for TED presentations.
Researchers found that taking calcium before exercise results in less of a decrease in blood calcium levels and slightly lower parathyroid hormone levels compared to taking it after exercising. This could help maintain stable blood levels during exercise and potentially mitigate bone loss.
Researchers discovered novel cellulose-degrading enzymes in marine wood borer gribbles, which can thrive in industrial settings. The enzymes hold promise of efficiently breaking down biomass into sugars for biofuel production.
A social media campaign on Facebook increased organ donor registrations 21-fold in a single day, with over 57,000 users sharing their status and more than 13,000 new online registrations. The effect continued for two weeks, with the number of new donors still climbing at twice the normal rate.
A meta-analysis study found that insulin degludec has a similar or reduced risk of recurrent hypoglycemia compared to insulin glargine. The study, involving nearly 3,400 adults with type 2 diabetes, suggests that insulin degludec may offer benefits in reducing the major side effect of insulin therapy.
Researchers at the University of Iowa have found that Eylea can effectively treat wet AMD patients who were previously unresponsive to Avastin and Lucentis. After three monthly injections, half of the eyes treated with Eylea showed reduced fluid accumulation, while one in five experienced improved vision.
A study led by Royal Holloway University researcher Carolyn McGettigan discovered brain regions involved in impersonations and accents. The team found that voice changes engage the left anterior insula and inferior frontal gyrus, while accent comparisons activate areas in the posterior superior temporal/inferior parietal cortex.
Joshua Obar has been honored with the ICAAC Young Investigator Award for his groundbreaking research on immunological memory responses. His work focuses on understanding how latent viral infections affect CD8 T cells and the formation of immune memories.
A study by the University of Exeter found that older male burying beetles invest more in parental care than younger counterparts, as they have less chance of reproducing again. This investment is driven by a desire to reduce the likelihood of female infidelity.
Researchers have identified a 30km-long fault zone near Istanbul as a potential starting point for a strong earthquake. The area, located just 15-20km from the historic city center, has shown no seismic activity in recent years.
A new study has compared the effectiveness of two diagnostic procedures for sarcoidosis: endosonography and bronchoscopy. The researchers found that endosonography resulted in a significantly higher diagnostic yield, detecting granulomas more often than bronchoscopy.
The E2e Project, a joint initiative of the Energy Institute at Haas and MIT's Center for Energy and Environmental Policy Research, aims to evaluate and improve energy-efficiency policies and technologies. The project seeks to provide valuable guidance to government and industry leaders, as well as consumers, on how to make smart choices.
A large study found similar genetic variations in overweight newborns and obese adults, suggesting a common genetic background. This discovery may lead to earlier identification of high-risk newborns and interventions to prevent obesity later in life.
Researchers at the Department of Energy's Pacific Northwest National Laboratory have developed a single advanced building control that can customize fan speed to actual need, resulting in an 18% slash in energy demand. The technology has the potential to save tens of thousands of dollars annually for large office buildings.
A Georgetown University expert says graphic tobacco warning labels can survive a First Amendment challenge if they depict health consequences and are supported by scientific evidence. The FDA must provide clear evidence of the labels' impact on smoking rates to prevail in court.
Sexual minority youth are at greater risk of suicide than their heterosexual peers. Psychologists must be well-prepared to treat these youth with specialized training and knowledge. The necessary background includes familiarity with human sexuality, ethical issues, and clinical skills for managing suicide risk.
A study found that multiple islet autoantibodies predict a high rate of progression to type 1 diabetes, particularly among younger children and females. The researchers analyzed data from three cohort studies involving over 3,000 genetically at-risk children.
Researchers have found that the rice blast fungus uses two distinct secretion systems to invade plant tissue, shedding light on a devastating crop disease. The discovery is a step towards controlling blast disease, which destroys enough rice to feed 60 million people annually.
Researchers have shed light on how the rice blast fungus invades plant tissue by evolving two distinct secretion systems. Understanding this process is crucial in controlling the disease and will help prove pivotal in blast disease control.
The NIH is funding collaborations between academia and industry to explore new uses for existing compounds in eight disease areas, including Alzheimer's disease and schizophrenia. The initiative aims to accelerate the development of new treatments by leveraging existing research and development.
A study of over 2,000 adults found that increased abdominal aortic wall thickness and plaque buildup are associated with future cardiovascular events. MRI measurements can help identify individuals at risk of these events.
A study led by UC Irvine researchers found that the herbal extract Rhodiola rosea increases fruit fly lifespan by an average of 24 percent. The extract works independently of dietary restriction and affects different molecular pathways. Additionally, it delays physical performance loss and extends the lives of old flies.
CNIO researchers describe molecular bases of resistance to PARP inhibitor drugs in familial breast and ovarian cancers. Secondary mutations in genes like 53BP1 or PTIP can compensate for BRCA1/2 mutations, rendering drugs ineffective.