A new semiconductor device has been created that can emit two distinct colors, opening up the possibility of using LEDs universally for cheap and efficient lighting. The device is more energy efficient than traditional LEDs as it emits light in a narrower spectral line.
Hundreds of deliberate fires were detected in West Africa by NASA's MODIS satellite on May 01, 2013. The fires were likely set to manage land for farming and crop rotation, but also produce smoke degrading air quality during the region's agricultural burning season.
A team of researchers developed a 3D simulation to study the evolution of complex organs, revealing that not all aspects of form are fine-tuned by evolution. The study highlights the complexity of genetic interactions and how natural selection influences body form.
A Harvard University study found that 95% of people believe the Earth's seasons are caused by its distance from the sun. However, scientists know it's due to the axis tilt and resulting sunlight duration. The study showed that better teachers who predicted students' wrong answers helped them learn more.
A new tool, the DCIS Score, complements traditional factors to predict IBE risk in women with DCIS treated without radiation. The score helps guide personalized treatment decisions.
Researchers explore ancient iron oceans, Antarctic climate feedbacks and evidence of catastrophic spillover from Mars. High-resolution imagery reveals standing bodies of water in eastern Valles Marineris region of Mars.
Researchers found that amniotic fluid stem cells can communicate with mature heart cells through channels in the membrane, forming functional gap junction connections. However, these cells do not differentiate into cardiac tissue under these conditions.
The MetLife Foundation Journalists in Aging Fellows Program will continue its fourth year, supporting journalists in covering aging issues. The program provides valuable insight into the complex challenges facing seniors, particularly those from under-served ethnic communities.
Researchers found that participants who customized their avatars with a backpack overestimated the height and difficulty of virtual hills, while those without a backpack had more accurate perceptions. The study suggests that designing realistic avatars can improve the immersion and effectiveness of virtual reality exercises.
A study published by the American Heart Association found that increased heart disease risk factors can negatively impact cognitive function in young adults. The study revealed a significant association between smoking, diabetes, and poor cognitive scores, with heavy smokers experiencing a lower cognitive function than non-smokers.
The Autism BrainNet network will acquire, process, store, and distribute brain tissue resources to accelerate understanding of the biological basis of autism. The network aims to broaden the reach of existing brain donation programs, expanding access to research for scientists and families affected by autism.
Researchers at Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine have identified a novel method to disrupt a common cancer pathway, suggesting a new treatment for breast, colon, melanoma and other cancers. The breakthrough was achieved by targeting a mutation in the PIK3CA gene.
This study explores the global nature of figs' association with humans, revealing their importance as a food source, animal fodder, and traditional medicine. Fig trees provide barkcloth, handicrafts, and other materials, emphasizing the consistent similarities in human values.
A new portable and real-time airborne asbestos detector has been developed using a laser-based light scattering technique. The device can identify asbestos fibers on-site, reducing the risk of lung cancers such as mesothelioma.
A Georgia Tech study found that users who share informational content, are happy and avoid negative posts attract more followers. The study also discovered that certain network structures have a predictable effect on follower growth.
Researchers found a surprising relationship between the oxidation state of iron in volcanic rocks and variations in the deep Earth's chemistry. The study revealed that lavas with lower iron concentrations are enriched in elements like barium and lanthanum, suggesting a role for carbon in the deep Earth.
Researchers at Harvard University have successfully demonstrated the first controlled flight of a robotic insect, weighing less than a tenth of a gram, which achieves vertical takeoff, hovering, and steering. The achievement marks the culmination of over a decade's work in micromanufacturing and control systems.
Researchers used Botox to discover a novel role for SNARE molecules in nerve cell signaling, linking fusion and retrieval processes. The findings have broad implications for understanding neuronal communication and diseases, including epilepsy and schizophrenia.
Researchers at the University of Granada have developed a self-compacting concrete using ash from olive pruning residue pellets, reducing time and costs. The new concrete has a higher compression strength than conventional concrete without requiring additional filler materials.
A team of researchers has developed a new synthetic polymer supplement that mimics natural synovial fluid, providing superior lubrication and reducing wear on cartilage surfaces. The biopolymer remains in the joint for more than two weeks, unlike current treatments which last only one or two days.
A gene expression test measures 58 genes in oestrogen receptor-positive breast cancers to differentiate between patients with high and low risk of late recurrence. The test provided significant prognostic information for late distant-relapse-free survival, with better individual risk prediction for women.
Jeffrey Morgan, UH math department chair and 10th professor to receive the prestigious title, is recognized for his superior college-level teaching and community outreach. He has inspired numerous students to pursue math majors and developed free resources for teachers and students.
Patients with increasing accumulations of coronary artery calcium were six times more likely to suffer a heart attack or die from heart disease. More frequent monitoring of patients with coronary artery calcium buildups could help determine the risk and give them time to make changes.
Researchers from the University of Manchester have found that babies born with abnormal fetal growth are at a higher risk of developing Autism Spectrum Disorder. The study analyzed data from over 40,000 child health records in Sweden and found that larger or smaller babies were more susceptible to autism.
Researchers use modern sequencing technology to characterize genetic aberrations in advanced postmenopausal breast cancer patients. The study found that tumours with similar clinical profiles can have distinct genetic characteristics, suggesting the need for tailored treatment strategies.
A team of researchers at the University of Minnesota has discovered that a single gene, Mesp1, can be used to create different cell types, including heart, blood, and muscle cells, from stem cells.
A genome-wide association study reveals that a DNA sequence variation on chromosome 15 can predict weight loss after gastric bypass surgery. Individuals with this variant tend to lose more weight than those without it. The findings may lead to new approaches for developing therapies for obesity and related metabolic disorders.
Researchers used virtual reality to study how brain cells create maps of the world, revealing that environmental cues such as smell and sound play a major role in activating these cells. The findings provide new insights into how the brain learns and makes memories.
Controlled fires in southern Australia are being used to clear dry underbrush and debris, reducing the risk of devastating bushfires. NASA's satellite imagery shows a mix of planned and spontaneous fires, with most currently under control.
Active transporters in cells, which facilitate nutrient entry, have been found to be leaky and allow water to pass through. This discovery suggests a universal behavior among all active membrane transporters, with large structural changes causing leaks during movement of substrates.
Scientists at the University of Edinburgh made a fundamental discovery about how embryonic stem cells renew and increase in number. Reducing the levels of protein Oct 4 enables pluripotent stem cells to self-renew more efficiently.
A new study found that weight loss surgery is safe and effective in a broader group of patients, including those with moderate obesity. The procedure helped reduce excess body weight and improve associated health conditions such as high cholesterol, hypertension, and diabetes.
A new study from Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center shows that regular exercise does not worsen the pain associated with fibromyalgia and may even improve symptoms. The study found that participants who engaged in moderate-intensity exercise for at least 12 weeks showed greater improvements in clinical symptoms.
Phyllis Guze, M.D., associate vice chancellor at UCR Medical School, has been awarded the Dema C. Daley Founder's award by APDIM for her career dedication to exemplary teaching and innovative educational program management. She also received the Mastership designation from ACP, recognizing her contributions to medicine and medical educ...
Renowned geneticist Susan Wessler has been elected a member of the American Philosophical Society (APS), a prestigious organization established in 1743. The election recognizes her extraordinary contributions to plant genetics and her commitment to scientific engagement and knowledge promotion.
Tobacco deaths can be reduced in the USA with new regulations and public health efforts. In Asia, controlling the tobacco epidemic is crucial to prevent devastating loss of life and illness. European countries face challenges in implementing effective tobacco control measures, highlighting opportunities for improvement.
Researchers at Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, have discovered two different kinds of brown fat cells in humans, which can burn energy and turn it into heat. The discovery offers new possibilities for developing methods to stimulate the brown fat tissue and prevent obesity.
Cyclone Zane is a disorganized storm with strongest rain northwest of the center. NASA's TRMM satellite measured light to moderate rainfall within the storm, with an area northwest of the center showing a high rainfall rate of around 2 inches/50 mm per hour.
Researchers have developed a method to convert skin cells into neural progenitor cells without passing through the pluripotent stem cell stage. This breakthrough allows for the production of specific types of neural cells, enabling rapid drug screening and modeling of neurological diseases such as ALS and spinal muscular atrophy.
Researchers at RIKEN have developed a new molecular imaging technology that visualizes both bio-metals and molecules simultaneously in a live mouse. This breakthrough technology is expected to provide insights into the complex interactions between metal elements and associated bio-molecules in diseases such as diabetes and cancer.
Scientists at UCSF have developed a new gene sequencing technique that can identify the Lone Star virus in less than 24 hours, significantly faster than conventional methods. The ultra-rapid deep sequencing approach has the potential to democratize viral surveillance and could help prevent outbreaks.
Scientists have created a model cell system that allows them to investigate normal brain development and identify specific disruptions in biological signals contributing to neurodevelopmental disorders. The new model uses human embryonic stem cells to produce cortical interneurons, which control electrical firing in brain circuits.
A recent study has revealed the magnitude of variation in gene expression measurements within breast cancers. Combining samples from multiple biopsies from a single tumour can effectively overcome this variation for selected genes, allowing for more precise treatment tailoring and reliable predictions related to disease progression.
A new analysis compared five different scores to predict late recurrence in estrogen-receptor positive breast cancer patients. The Clinical Treatment Score was found to be the best predictor of late recurrence, while the PAM50 Risk of Recurrence and Breast Cancer Index scores added significant prognostic value.
A fast-moving brush fire broke out in Riverside County, forcing the evacuation of several communities and destroying one home. Over 400 firefighters have been working to contain the nearly 3,000-acre Summit Fire.
A new study has identified a genetic risk factor for persistent pain after traumatic events, such as motor vehicle collisions and sexual assaults. The research found that variation in the gene encoding for the protein FKBP5 is associated with a higher risk of moderate to severe neck pain six weeks after a motor vehicle collision.
Hot water recirculating systems touted as environmentally friendly actually use more energy and water than traditional systems, according to Virginia Tech researchers. The study found that these systems can require up to double the energy of conventional systems, increasing consumer bills.
A study found altered noncoding long chain RNA sequences in Rett Syndrome, which regulates gene expression and neurotransmitter function. The research could lead to new therapeutic strategies targeting lncRNA molecules or GABA receptors.
A study found a statistically non-significant but clinically significant benefit in adding everolimus to trastuzumab treatment for HER-2 positive early breast cancer. The combination improved clinical response rates, but not pathological response rates, suggesting benefits independent of expected molecular pathways.
A study published in Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry found that grapes reduce heart failure associated with hypertension by increasing antioxidant defense genes in the heart. Grapes are rich in antioxidants and polyphenols, which help improve glutathione levels and reduce oxidative stress.
A PLOS ONE study has confirmed that Droplet Digital PCR (ddPCR) technology is suitable for routine analysis of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in food, feed, and seeds. The study found that ddPCR is more accurate and reliable than real-time quantitative PCR (qPCR) for quantifying GMOs, especially at low levels.
A large randomised controlled trial found that exercise had no effect on reducing depression among frail elderly care home residents. Despite being well-received by residents and staff, the intervention failed to improve mental health or quality of life.
A recent study published at the 5th IMPAKT Breast Cancer Conference finds that gene expression tests can effectively tailor cancer treatments to individual patients, despite variability in tumor cell types and gene expression. The researchers analyzed 78 biopsies from 26 tumors and found that some genomic tests were more reliable than ...
A new study suggests that young women are more likely to get vaccinated against HPV if the emphasis is on preventing sexually transmitted diseases rather than cancer. The study found that messages focusing on genital warts were more effective in encouraging college-aged women to discuss vaccination with their doctors.
Scientists at Whitehead Institute have developed a new method for creating genetically altered mice using the CRISPR/Cas technique, which can produce mice with multiple mutations in just three to four weeks. This breakthrough enables the study of human diseases in mice more efficiently and cost-effectively.
A new mathematical model developed by researchers at the University of Toronto can pinpoint high-risk areas for cardiac arrests and recommend optimal placement of defibrillators. According to the study, nearly three times as many public cardiac arrests occurred in downtown Toronto than in the rest of the city.
The CU-Boulder instrument package, known as the Extreme Ultraviolet and X-ray Irradiance Sensors (EXIS), is designed to measure energy output from the sun that can affect satellite operations. The EXIS will provide rapid alerts for solar flares and monitor extreme ultraviolet wavelengths to track space weather effects.
Researchers have discovered that two little-known lemur species in Madagascar burrow underground and hibernate for three to seven months. The study suggests that primate hibernation may not be as rare or unique as previously thought, offering insights into the behavior of these close genetic relatives.
Restrictive eating habits increase the brain's response to pleasurable foods, making it harder for dieters to maintain weight loss. Healthy, balanced meals are more effective for sustainable weight management.
Researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital have identified a gene variant that predicts weight loss after gastric bypass surgery. The variant, located on chromosome 15, is associated with an average weight loss of nearly 40% in individuals who carry two copies of the beneficial version.