A study published by a Stanford researcher found that poor sleep quality significantly increases the risk of suicide among older adults. The study, which analyzed data from 14,456 adults aged 65 and older, confirmed that disrupted sleep is an independent risk factor for late-life suicide.
Researchers at the University of Tennessee discovered that near-Earth asteroid 1950 DA is held together by van der Waals forces, which defy traditional assumptions about asteroid composition. This finding has implications for defending against massive asteroid impacts and may inform strategies for space exploration.
A new chip-based platform combines electrical and optical measurements to study single molecules and nanoparticles. The device allows for the discrimination of particles with different sizes and optical properties, enabling reliable counts of virus particles.
A study published in PLOS ONE found evidence of ancient Egyptian mummification practices dating back to the Late Neolithic period, around 4500-3350 BC. The discovery suggests that early Egyptians may have used natural products to preserve bodies, laying the groundwork for later Pharaonic mummification techniques.
A study found that listening to the sound of a ticking clock can influence women's desire to start a family at an earlier age. The effect was particularly pronounced among women from lower socio-economic backgrounds, who were more likely to prioritize having children over other life goals. Men were not affected in the same way.
A Virginia Tech study reveals that common household chemicals can decrease reproduction in mice, raising concerns about potential effects on human fertility. The research found that female mice exposed to certain disinfectant ingredients took longer to get pregnant and had fewer offspring.
Economics experts will debate the usefulness of economic models, experiments and econometric regressions in addressing real-world issues. The meeting will feature lectures on topics like kidney donation matching and US unemployment, as well as systemic risk measurement.
Four winning projects address postoperative complications, visual impairments, tube feeding issues and neonatal urine collection. The first place team will receive $20,000 for their AccuSpine device improving spinal fusion procedures.
Researchers identified two key genes RAS and JAK that mutate to turn normal blood cells into cancer cells, offering a breakthrough in understanding leukemia. This discovery enables the identification of specific gene mutations, allowing for more effective treatment with lower toxicity.
Researchers have shown that injecting a weakened version of the anaerobic bacteria Clostridium novyi can shrink tumors in rats, dogs, and a human patient. The bacteria excise tumor tissue in a precise, localized way that spares surrounding normal tissue.
A new stimuli-responsive drug delivery system has been developed to prevent transplant rejection by delivering immunosuppressant drugs locally and when prompted. The system reduces toxicity and improves therapeutic outcomes, offering a paradigm shift in clinical immunosuppressive therapy.
A team of researchers has developed a 'self-fitting' material that can precisely fill bone defects in the head, face, and jaw, providing a potential solution for reconstructing facial features after injuries or surgery. The material, made from a shape-memory polymer, expands with warm salt water to conform to irregular defect shapes.
Researchers at Nanyang Technological University have identified two genes, RAS and JAK, that are mutated in most cases of acute lymphoblastic leukaemia in children. This discovery may lead to more targeted treatment protocols with fewer side effects for these patients.
A University of Michigan Medical School study reveals strategies for success in 'medical marriages', where one or both spouses are physicians. Key findings include the importance of mutual support, role definition, and shared values in maintaining a resilient relationship.
Scientists at UC San Diego School of Medicine discovered the Notch signaling pathway's early role in establishing hematopoietic stem cell fate during development. They found JAM proteins serve as co-receptors for Notch signaling, facilitating HSC precursor cells' growth.
A new study by researchers at UNC Chapel Hill found that over half of older emergency department patients were either malnourished or at risk for malnutrition. Most of these patients had not previously been diagnosed as malnourished, highlighting the need for better nutrition assessments and support services.
A new study reveals that fracking fluids contain eight substances toxic to mammals and raise concerns about their potential health impacts. The research highlights the need to characterize compounds used in hydraulic fracturing to evaluate environmental and human health effects.
A UK study published in The Lancet found that being overweight or obese increases the risk of developing 10 common cancers, with over 12,000 cases estimated each year in the UK. The study also estimates that a population-wide 1 kg/m² increase in average BMI could result in an additional 3,790 cases annually.
Researchers tracked 35 blue sharks for up to 1,000 days and found evidence of a discrete central North Atlantic nursery. Juvenile female blue sharks migrate seasonally while juvenile males expand their range southward, with males displaying greater behavioral variation.
The Integrated Precipitation and Hydrology Experiment demonstrated two new radar instruments, improving rainfall measurement. The High-altitude Wind and Rain Profiler and ER-2 X-Band Radar provided a unique capability by capturing how cloud droplets and raindrops move relative to each other.
The American Society for Radiation Oncology (ASTRO) has awarded a total of $35,500 in individual grants to 43 researchers presenting at the 2014 Annual Meeting. The awards recognize top radiation oncology research from around the world and provide insight into significant advances in technology and biology.
Researchers have made the first live observations of minke whales feeding under sea ice, revealing a unique behavior that involves lunging up to 100 times per hour. The team used non-lethal tagging methods to study the whales' diet and habitat, providing new insights into the Antarctic ecosystem.
Karl Klose, a UTSA microbiologist, has received a $1 million contract from the US Department of Defense to develop a vaccine against tularemia. The bacteria can be deadly and has been developed as a bioweapon by several countries.
Scientists have discovered that the exact chemical make-up of dusty air, including microbes found in it, is crucial to predicting rain events and understanding regional climate. The research could lead to more accurate weather forecasting and improved cloud-seeding technology.
A new study found that the reclassification of PTSD diagnosis in DSM-5 potentially excludes soldiers who were previously diagnosed under previous criteria. The authors surveyed 1822 US soldiers and found that just under a third were excluded when using DSM-5 criteria, highlighting concerns for treatment and benefits.
Researchers have successfully mutated the powerful anti-HIV bNAb called VRC01 to make it last longer in blood and collect in rectal mucosal tissue, potentially blocking HIV transmission. A low-dose infusion of mutated VRC01 also protected monkeys against SHIV infection more effectively than unmutated VRC01.
Researchers found that reducing brain levels of tau protein effectively blocks disease development in a mouse model of Dravet syndrome. This approach also improved cognitive and behavioral abnormalities associated with the syndrome.
Researchers suggest genetically edited fruit could be more acceptable in Europe, with potential applications in vitamin A production and browning prevention. Genome editing tools like CRISPR enable precise adjustments to natural ingredients.
Scientists at the University of Illinois have discovered a single-layer sheet of molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) that can sequence DNA more accurately and quickly than existing materials. The new material outperforms graphene, which had limitations due to DNA sticking to it.
Researchers at UMass Amherst develop a water-based method to control molecular assembly of nanoparticles, reducing the need for toxic solvents and increasing efficiency. The new technique enables faster, cheaper, and more environmentally friendly production of organic photovoltaics and other electronic devices.
A new analysis found that high sodium intake above the World Health Organization's recommendation of 2.0g per day contributes to nearly one in 10 global cardiovascular deaths. The study, published in the New England Journal of Medicine, estimated 1.65 million annual cardiovascular deaths globally.
A modified version of Clostridium novyi bacterium has been shown to produce a strong anti-tumor response in rats, dogs and now humans. The treatment involves direct injection of spores into tumors, targeting oxygen-starved cells while sparing healthy tissue.
Researchers from London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine found young men often prioritize anal sex over consent, while women report repeated requests and a culture of coercion. The study calls for open discussion to challenge these attitudes and promote healthier relationships.
The Mid-Atlantic Aviation Partnership's Unmanned Aircraft Systems test site program is fully operational and ready to conduct research on integrating unmanned aircraft into the nation's airspace. The partnership has been granted seven Certificates of Waiver or Authorization by the FAA, paving the way for the development of commercial u...
The HPV vaccine has resulted in a dramatic drop in genital warts among young Australians, with a 90% decrease in girls aged 12-17 and a 73% decrease in women between 18-26. The vaccine also showed an indirect protective effect among young men, leading to a 38% drop in genital warts.
Researchers at Baycrest Centre for Geriatric Care studied the memories of 15 Air Transat passengers who experienced a life-threatening emergency in 2001. They found that those with PTSD recalled more external details, not just specific events, suggesting altered memory processing may be a vulnerability factor.
Regular exercise, including brisk walking, is associated with a lower rate of breast cancer in African American women. Women who exercised vigorously for seven or more hours each week were 25% less likely to develop breast cancer compared to those who exercised less.
Researchers have made a breakthrough in evaluating long bone fractures using ultrasound, providing a new method for monitoring healing. The study found that the amplitude of ultrasonic guided waves can quantify fracture degree and depth, offering a non-invasive diagnostic tool.
A recent study found that bacteria growing in hospitals are increasingly resistant to chlorhexidine gluconate, a common antiseptic used to prevent infections. The study suggests that daily antiseptic baths may be contributing to this trend, emphasizing the need for vigilant monitoring.
A new statistical model predicts the performance of hybrid rice, revolutionizing hybrid breeding in agriculture. The UC Riverside-led research uses genomic prediction to identify high-performance hybrids, increasing grain production and achieving global food security.
Researchers found that 70% of little penguins' foraging tracks were associated with other penguins and 40% exhibited synchronized diving. These behaviors suggest group foraging and synchronization of underwater movements in little penguins.
Extreme wildfire danger is raging in British Columbia, Canada, with over 142,000 hectares of land impacted. The majority of fires occurred in BC, Alberta, and the Northwest Territories, with high to extreme fire danger across western and northern Canada.
Researchers at Kansas State University have developed a lithium-based neutron detector for various applications, including medical imaging and national security. The Li-Foil Neutron Detector is more cost-effective than helium-3 based detectors due to advancements in lithium foil manufacturing.
Researchers found that the HIV virus's outer envelope is mistaken for bacterial antigens by the immune system, leading to ineffective antibodies. The study suggests a new hypothesis for how HIV vaccine development could be improved by targeting the gut flora.
Young people's feedback reveals oppressive culture around anal sex with little regard for consent or pleasure. Researchers call for more open discussion on the importance of mutuality in anal sex.
A recent study published in JAMA Psychiatry found that poor sleep quality is associated with a higher risk of suicide in older adults. The research, conducted over a 10-year period, revealed that individuals who reported poorer sleep at baseline had a significantly increased risk of suicide, even when controlling for depressed mood.
New research shows that when teachers direct physical activities, young children become more active and less sedentary. Childhood physical activity is related to better health, higher test scores, and fewer behavioral problems.
A study published in Cell Host & Microbe reveals how the Ebola virus blocks the body's first line of defense against infection. By targeting a specific protein called eVP24, the virus cripples the immune system's ability to respond effectively, allowing it to mass-produce itself and trigger a deadly response.
Materials scientist Scott X. Mao successfully creates metallic glasses from pure metals by applying ultrafast cooling rates, solving a long-standing issue in the field. The process involves a novel technique that enables transformation of liquefied elemental metals into glass.
A team of researchers at the University of Texas at Arlington has developed a genetic computer network model that can predict the onset of mental illnesses such as bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. The model uses single nucleotide polymorphism networks to analyze a patient's genetic pattern and apply personalized therapy.
Researchers at Tel Aviv University developed a diagnostic tool using involuntary eye movements to accurately diagnose Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). The test showed a direct correlation between ADHD and the inability to suppress eye movement in anticipation of visual stimuli.
Researchers have identified key mechanisms that trigger hematopoietic stem cell production, which could lead to new treatments for blood disorders. The discovery brings the potential for more widespread use of blood stem cells in therapy closer.
Researchers from the Universities of York, Macquarie and Oxford discovered evidence that ancient Egyptians used complex embalming agents 1,500 years earlier than thought. The findings suggest that mummification originated in Upper Egypt during the Neolithic period, around 4500-3100 BC.
Researchers found that fibroblastic reticular cells from lymph nodes improved survival in mouse models of sepsis, even when treatment was delayed by up to 16 hours. FRC administration prevented damage to the spleen and death of immune cells, leading to reduced bacterial levels in the bloodstream.
Hurricane Julio is moving north-northwest towards Hawaii, expected to weaken due to vertical wind shear. Two tropical lows are also developing in the Central Pacific Ocean, with low chances of formation.
Researchers discovered that HP1 proteins play a crucial role in regulating gene expression in malaria parasites, allowing them to survive and transmit. The study found that depleting HP1 enabled the parasite to express high levels of var genes, which can evade the immune system.
The University of California, Davis's STAIR Grant program provides funding and support for innovative research, allowing selected researchers to generate early proof-of-concept models. The four finalists have been awarded $50,000 each to develop their projects into commercial applications.
A study found that nearly three-quarters of older adults with malnutrition had never been diagnosed, highlighting the importance of screening in emergency departments. Factors contributing to malnutrition include depression, difficulty buying groceries, and denture problems.
Research confirms significant thinning of Arctic sea ice snow, particularly in the Beaufort and Chukchi seas, with results showing a decline of 14 inches to 9 inches (35 cm to 22 cm) in western waters near Alaska. Thinner snow cover may impact ice thickness and ecosystem health.
Researchers have discovered how Ebola blocks and disables the body's natural immune response. The protein VP24 disrupts a crucial early step in the virus's path to causing deadly disease. Understanding this mechanism could lead to new treatments for the deadly virus.
A recent study by Indiana University researchers highlights the importance of selecting a suitable post-discharge rehabilitation facility. The guide provides key factors to consider, including disease severity, patient insurance, and quality of services offered. By making informed decisions, hospitals can reduce rehospitalization rates...
A team of scientists discovered the bones of 49 ancient flying reptiles from a new species of pterosaur, Caiuajara dobruskii, in southern Brazil. The bones revealed features such as a bony expansion and rounded depressions on the skull, suggesting this species may have been gregarious and able to fly at a young age.
Researchers have made significant breakthroughs in understanding the relationship between genetic changes and disease causation using next-generation sequencing technology. Subtle gene changes are now being associated with unique disease presentations, even in previously undiagnosed forms of disease.
The Ebola virus outbreak in West Africa has claimed over 1,000 lives, with healthcare professionals facing new challenges in capital cities and Nigeria. Dr. Fauci emphasizes the need for sound public health practices, community engagement, and international assistance to defeat the epidemic.
Research finds that peripheral nerve injury increases the expression of α1-adrenoceptors on pain-signalling nerve fibers. This up-regulation may intensify pain by boosting neural excitability. Blocking alpha-1 adrenoceptors could be a useful therapeutic strategy for patients with chronic pain after peripheral nerve injury.
Haibo Ge, a chemist at IUPUI, has received a $600,000 NSF award to support his research on efficient methods for preparing organic molecules with potential impact on medicinal and agricultural chemistries. The grant also supports the development of an interdisciplinary course linking organic and medicinal chemistry.
The University of Tennessee Professor Barry Bruce has received funding to harness the power of photosynthesis for cheap and efficient energy. The new photobioreactors will increase algae yields 50-fold, allowing for scalable testing and characterization.
A study in The Journal of Molecular Diagnostics found a combination of nucleic acid sequence-based amplification and real-time quantitative PCR detects aspergillosis with 100% accuracy. This diagnostic test has the potential to improve patient outcomes by providing early detection of this potentially deadly fungus.
Rice University theorists show that energy landscapes dominate both evolution and folding of proteins. The team used computer models to compare the folding of natural proteins from eons to seconds, revealing a common connection between evolution and physics.
Researchers at Technical University of Munich successfully assembled chains of up to 90 porphine units using a silver surface, opening doors for the development of ordered long molecular structures. These 'tapes' have potential applications in electronic devices and data storage.
A study found that the EU's policy on tobacco control shifted in favor of the industry following massive lobbying. The research used automated content analysis to track changes in language used by health groups and industry stakeholders, revealing a significant shift towards industry interests.
Researchers examine limitations in manufacturing, engineering, power, time, and computational complexity to determine achievable advancements. Emerging technologies like carbon nanotubes may overcome traditional limits, but fundamental constraints still pose significant obstacles.
Numerous wildfires have impacted Russia's landscape this summer, producing smoke that has drifted to the Arctic Sea. The smoke contains a mixture of particles and chemicals produced by incomplete burning of carbon-containing materials.
Researchers are studying the effects of projected climate changes on native plant species in the Pacific Northwest. By growing 12 species of range-limited native grasses and forbs in simulated future climate conditions, scientists aim to understand how plants will adapt and potentially disappear as temperatures rise.
A long-lasting foreshock series in northern Chile controlled the rupture process of a magnitude 8.1 earthquake, which occurred in a region where the two colliding tectonic plates were partly locked. The study suggests that the unbroken regions north and south may break in separate smaller earthquakes.
Researchers found that dolphins and beluga whales exhibit a delay between reward anticipation and squealing, suggesting they experience pleasure. This behavior is comparable to the timing of dopamine release in humans.
Scientists have discovered novel properties of special HIV antibodies that can neutralize multiple strains of HIV. The study found that these 'broadly neutralizing antibodies' are more prevalent in HIV-infected individuals than previously thought, suggesting a possible vaccine strategy to elicit them.
Research suggests that high levels of inflammatory markers in childhood may increase the risk of developing depression and psychosis in adulthood. The study found that individuals with elevated IL-6 levels were nearly two times more likely to experience depression or psychosis than those with low levels.
A new study suggests Antarctica's ice sheet could become the largest contributor to global sea level rise earlier than thought. The analysis indicates a range of potential increases of 1-37 centimeters in this century, significantly higher than previous IPCC projections. This could have devastating impacts on coastal cities and communi...
A recent study published in Infection Control and Hospital Epidemiology found that community-associated MRSA can colonize the groin and rectal areas, with men being more frequently colonized than women. This discovery has important implications for MRSA surveillance programs nationwide.
Researchers have developed a simple method to detect contaminants on atom-thin graphene using terahertz spectroscopy. The technique involves placing the graphene on a layer of indium phosphide, which emits terahertz waves when excited by a laser pulse, allowing for non-contact detection and mapping of changes in electrical conductivity.
A new study identifies a novel gene, Inpp4b, that controls nerve conduction velocity and is linked to multiple sclerosis. The researchers found that polymorphisms in this gene affect nerve conduction speed in both mice with experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) and humans with MS.
Scientists at Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health have discovered a new clue to understanding how the most important medication for tuberculosis works. The antibiotic Pyrazinamide cuts off the energy production of Mycobacterium tuberculosis, killing the bacteria by disrupting PanD, an enzyme crucial to synthesis of co-enzym...
A new technique can quickly screen products for mercury content, helping to identify those at risk of serious health problems. The method uses total reflection x-ray fluorescence and has been shown to be just as accurate as existing techniques.
A Vanderbilt-led study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that the high-dose flu vaccine is 24% more effective than the standard-dose vaccine in protecting persons ages 65 and over against influenza illness. The study, which enrolled 31,989 participants, showed that the high-dose trivalent vaccine induces significan...
The iTAKL study aims to increase understanding of pediatric mild traumatic brain injury by employing imaging, cognitive testing and biomechanical data. The research team hopes to provide objective data that will help prevent, mitigate, identify and treat head injuries.
New research examines how users perceive campus emergency alerts, finding that personality traits such as neuroticism and agreeableness affect attitudes towards the system. The study suggests differentiating between serious and nonserious threats to maintain public trust and safety.
A survey of scientists from 94 countries reveals the top research priorities for sustaining ocean health, including climate change's impact on plankton growth and ocean biodiversity. Social scientists highlight the need to better communicate science to policy-makers and the public as a key priority.
A study examining Medicare hospice discharges found that nearly 1 in 5 patients were discharged alive, sparking concerns about cost-saving measures. The researchers also discovered significant variation in live discharge rates across states and individual hospices.
Researchers have developed a method to isolate stem cells from skeletal muscle that can regenerate nerves after severe damage. These cells, called Sk-MSCs, have been shown to facilitate the growth of responsible nerve and vascular cells, making them a potential tool for treating large resection surgery.
Scientists create a temporary tattoo sensor that detects and responds to lactate in sweat, producing an electrical current. The device continuously monitors sweat lactate levels over time and with changes in exercise intensity, enabling the creation of sweat-powered biobatteries.