A national campaign by Public Health England aimed to encourage smokers to quit for 28 days, resulting in a significant increase in quit attempts and a cost-effective initiative that saves lives. The campaign resulted in an estimated 350,000 additional quit attempts compared to other months.
A $1.7 million grant from NSF supports Rensselaer researcher George Makhatadze in investigating protein folding speed to expand enzymatic range for paper manufacturing and other industries. The goal is to slow protein deterioration, extending functional life at high temperatures.
Deforestation in Central America is linked to growing evidence of drug trafficking, with traffickers creating clandestine roads and landing strips within protected areas. The influx of cash from drug trade emboldens local residents to expand their activities at the expense of indigenous people who are key forest defenders.
Infants prefer fruits from plants over man-made objects after an adult demonstrates edibility. Younger infants also exhibit plant-based bias due to social learning mechanisms.
A revised provision in new hours-of-service regulations for truck drivers has been shown to combat fatigue more effectively than the previous version. After a 2-night break, drivers with two or more nighttime periods in their restart breaks reported fewer lapses of attention and less sleepiness.
A study by Virginia Tech researchers reveals that brain tumor cells with diverse physical traits are safer due to chromosomal abnormalities. These abnormalities lead to cell diversity and survival of brain tumors.
Yale researchers discovered that accelerating cell cycle speed reduces barriers to changing a cell's fate, allowing for pluripotent cells to be created more efficiently. The study found that cells with faster cycles can become multiple cell types, whereas slower cycles remain in their original state.
Scientists at the Autonomous University of Barcelona developed an electronic tongue to classify beer varieties, achieving an accuracy rate of 81.9%. The system uses sensors to detect chemical compounds and can even estimate alcohol content.
Researchers have developed a novel X-ray technique that enables the rapid determination of atomic surface structures and live recordings of surface reactions like catalysis and corrosion. This breakthrough paves the way for designing better catalysts and materials on an atomic level.
Scientists have successfully engineered dermo-epidermal skin grafts that contain functional blood and lymphatic capillaries, which can rapidly supply tissue fluid and prevent accumulation. This breakthrough could improve wound healing and organ structure of these skin grafts.
Researchers have created an engineered cardiac tissue model using human embryonic stem cells, which exhibits significant similarities to human heart muscle. The model displays spontaneous contractile activity and responds to electrical stimulation, providing a promising platform for developing reliable models of the human heart.
The National Energy Research Scientific Computing Center has accepted a new Cray XC30 supercomputer named Edison, designed for scientific productivity. The system features nearly 2.4 quadrillion floating-point operations per second and can handle both data analysis and simulation and modeling with equal efficiency.
System 91S is a tropical low-pressure area located northeast of Maputo, Mozambique, with heavy rainfall rates occurring over the Mozambique Channel. Wind shear has increased, causing the system to elongate and reducing its chances for tropical development.
A study by the University of Illinois found that parents with an insecure attachment style are more likely to respond to their child's distress by becoming distressed themselves or dismissing their emotions. This can lead to unhealthy eating habits, including comfort feeding, fewer family mealtimes, and excessive TV viewing. The resear...
Women who experience fertility problems are more likely to stay with their partner if they have a child after infertility evaluation. After 12 years of follow-up, nearly 27% of women were no longer living with the partner if they did not have a child.
The NSA is developing quantum computers to factorize large numbers and decipher encryption keys, posing a threat to modern internet security. The $79.7m project aims to break banking transactions, private messages, and government files.
Researchers discovered that DNA damage triggers dramatic reorganization of the Golgi, leading to its dispersal throughout the cell. This dispersal involves a novel signaling pathway directly linking DNA damage response to the Golgi, affecting cell survival and chemotherapy efficacy.
Core stabilization exercises can improve postural stability and independent walking in chronic hemiparetic stroke patients. Real-time video feedback significantly improves gait velocity and stride length, as well as TUG test performance.
Researchers at Rice University measured the speed and efficiency of excited 'hot' electrons drawn from gold nanoparticles into a sheet of graphene. They found that graphene accelerated damping of plasmons, shortening its lifetime, and calculated the electrons' transfer time.
Researchers developed antibiotic-containing microspheres to prevent implant-associated bone infections. The study found that coated implants prevented infection in 100% of specimens, while uncoated ones showed a 64% infection rate.
A study published in Science has identified a genetic mutation in almost 75% of cases, linking HSP to other common neurodegenerative disorders like Alzheimer's and ALS. The research found over 50 families with autosomal recessive HSP, providing insight into the biological processes underlying these diseases.
Researchers from Helmholtz Munich demonstrate that geranium extracts inhibit HIV-1 virus replication by blocking attachment to host cells. The extracts contain polyphenols with high anti-HIV-1 activity, making them a promising lead for phytomedicine against HIV-1.
A new biological pathway-based computational model, called PHPN, mines large publicly available disease datasets to find shared genetic connections between diseases. The model offers a visual representation of the relationships between diseases and phenotype's at the systems level.
A Johns Hopkins study finds that newborn brain injury causes different responses in male and female brains, with females showing milder cell death and better response to certain therapies. Researchers highlight the need for gender-specific research to develop precisely targeted treatments.
A new study explores how doctors and patients interact with computers in exam rooms, highlighting the need for better balance between human and technical attention. Research suggests that using aviation practices can help primary-care providers enhance the physician-patient relationship in an era of exam room computing.
A UW study of 1,228 female twins found that caregiving's relationship with depression, anxiety, and perceived mental health is influenced by genetics and upbringing. Anxiety is the most closely linked to caregiving, while environmental factors have a greater impact on perceived stress.
A recent study published in the Journal of Investigative Medicine found that gastric banding patients often fail to meet daily nutrient requirements despite supplements and counseling. To maintain health after bariatric surgery, patients are advised to consume more protein-rich foods, include fatty fish, and limit processed foods.
Researchers at Northern Arizona University found that drug trafficking is causing widespread deforestation in Central America, threatening conservation efforts and the Mesoamerican Biological Corridor. The team hopes to influence drug policy with their message, emphasizing the importance of conservation in shaping future decisions.
A team of researchers at Caltech has identified a new neural circuit in the lateral septum that plays a causal role in promoting anxiety states. Activation of this circuit increases stress hormone levels, suggesting that it acts to increase anxiety rather than reduce it.
A new study published in Psychosomatic Medicine found that children with depression are more likely to develop obesity, smoking habits, and lower physical activity levels. These factors can increase the risk of heart disease later in life, even as early as teenage years.
A new storage system, BlueDBM, uses a network of flash storage devices and field-programmable gate arrays to dramatically speed up the time it takes to access information. The system can analyze high-volume scientific data at around 30 frames per second, making it possible to answer user queries with very low latencies.
A bioengineer is researching the necessary nutrients for stem cells to grow and function as heart cells, with a focus on understanding cell metabolism. The goal is to prevent diseases such as cancer, diabetes, and obesity by optimizing heart cell nutrition.
Researchers at TSRI will explore Notch signaling pathways as therapeutic options for non-small cell lung cancer. The grant aims to improve treatment outcomes for advanced disease, where survival rates remain poor despite falling death rates.
A large prospective study has confirmed that vodka consumption is a major cause of early death in Russian men, with those who drink heavily facing a 60-70% increased risk. The study found that heavy vodka drinkers were more likely to die from alcohol-related causes such as poisoning, accidents, and violence.
A study published in Cancer Prevention Research found that atypical ductal hyperplasia and atypical lobular hyperplasia have similar potential to develop into breast cancer. The study followed over 700 women with biopsy-confirmed atypia for an average of 12.5 years, finding that the ratio of breast cancer development was the same in bo...
A UC Riverside-led study found significant damage in the liver and lung of mice exposed to third-hand smoke, with wounds taking longer to heal and displaying hyperactivity. The study's findings suggest a critical need for research on human health risks associated with third-hand smoke exposure.
Researchers found that all-trans retinoid acid enhances a key subset of T cells that promote immune system tolerance. This finding suggests the potential use of Vitamin A to treat autoimmune diseases and protect organ recipients.
The FDA has approved a new multiple sclerosis treatment regimen developed at Wayne State University, which involves injecting Copaxone at a higher dose but fewer times per week. The study demonstrated that this dosing regimen is effective and safe, with reduced relapse rates and improved tolerability.
A multicenter research team led by Cedars-Sinai neurologist Nancy Sicotte used a new automated technique to identify shrinkage of the right hippocampus in women with multiple sclerosis and depressive symptoms. The study found reduced size of the right hippocampus, while the left remained unchanged.
Researchers at Max Planck Institute found that GDNF promotes the survival of mitochondria, preventing degeneration associated with a Parkinson's-related gene defect. This discovery could lead to more refined GDNF therapies for patients.
Researchers at NIST and Simon Fraser University have discovered the origin of distinct differences in relaxor behavior compared to ferroelectric PZT. The study found that random electric fields vary randomly from unit cell to unit cell in relaxors, leading to a greater piezoelectric effect.
Scientists at Washington University School of Medicine have discovered a potent stimulator of new bone growth, which could lead to new treatments for osteoporosis. The study found that the WNT7B protein enhances bone formation through the mTOR pathway.
Researchers identified components of the C. difficile bacteria that can be used to develop a rapid diagnostic test, potentially leading to more timely initiation of antibiotics and improved outcomes for patients. The study's technology can also help quickly detect and identify hypervirulent strains of the bacterium.
The January/February ER issue investigates the impact of arts education on critical thinking skills and finds benefits for disadvantaged students. The special section discusses standards for high-quality education research, emphasizing the importance of understanding policy decisions and contextual nuances.
Two UC Irvine research teams will use the grants to investigate the fundamental structure and function of stem cells, with potential applications for treating cancer, neurological diseases, and injuries. The funded projects aim to uncover specific properties of human stem cells used in transplants.
Researchers identified UHRF1 as a key driver of liver cancer in zebrafish models and human tumors, showing that high levels of UHRF1 can cause tumors to form rapidly. The study suggests that targeting UHRF1 could be an effective approach to halting cancer formation and offers new hope for treatments for hepatocellular carcinoma.
Researchers from the QUEST Institute have demonstrated a new method called photon-recoil spectroscopy, which enables the investigation of fast transitions in atoms or molecules. The method involves trapping two ions and using laser light pulses to measure their frequencies with unprecedented accuracy.
The study found that brain regions in the superior temporal gyrus respond to broader acoustic features rather than individual phonemes, enabling more accurate speech recognition. This discovery may contribute to a better understanding of language disorders such as dyslexia and reading difficulties.
Researchers found that aggressive thyroid cancer cells in microgravity exhibit a redifferentiation to a less aggressive state, offering hope for new treatments. The study's findings suggest potential therapeutic targets for cancer drugs that may be effective on Earth.
Researchers found wallabies have dichromatic colour vision like dogs, but lack a third colour-sensitive receptor. The 'Neutral Point' colour stimulates confusion in wallabies, unlike other marsupials.
Researchers at Caltech used high-resolution electron microscopy to visualize HIV infection in the gut of an infected mouse model. The study revealed novel observations about HIV behavior, including semisynchronous wave patterns of virus release from infected cells and transmission through free pools of virus.
A new study reveals the 3D structure of HIV infection in the gut, showing how the virus infects immune cells and spreads through tissue. The researchers used electron tomography to visualize the architecture of infected parts of the gut, revealing details on viral transmission events.
A survey of 118 campus law enforcement officers found that 72% had responded to at least one sexual assault case, with 77% receiving specialized training. However, only 64% understood federal requirements under the Clery Act, highlighting a need for improved training and awareness.
Researchers achieved precise gene modification in monkeys using CRISPR/Cas9 system, enabling simultaneous disruption of two target genes without off-target mutations. This breakthrough generates invaluable human disease models, advancing therapeutic strategies in biomedical research.
The UK has established three new synthetic biology research centres, with £40M+ investment, to drive advancement in modern synthetic biology research and develop new technologies. The centres will focus on diverse expertise to stimulate innovation in this area.
A study by Whitehead Institute researchers found that poly(A)-tail length does not impact translation efficiency in cells matured beyond gastrulation stage. This discovery may challenge existing mechanisms of gene regulation involving the poly(A) tail.
Research shows that China's export of air pollution reaches the western United States, tied to consumer goods production. A study in India reveals a 60% increase in sulfur dioxide emissions from 2005 to 2012, shifting India into the No. 2 spot as the biggest emitter after China.
NASA's Aqua satellite captured visible and infrared imagery of Tropical Cyclone Dylan as it began landfalling in Queensland, Australia. The storm had maximum sustained winds near 55 knots and was expected to dissipate within one day.
Researchers at UT Austin develop a compact device that breaks symmetry in sound wave transmission, allowing for one-way communication. The team's design may lead to advances in noise control, sonar equipment and wireless devices.
Researchers developed a NIST cell membrane model to detect bacterial vaginosis (BV) at low concentrations. The model revealed the presence of BV-causing bacteria by detecting protein toxin VLY in real-time, with improved sensitivity and speed compared to current methods.
Researchers at the University of Delaware have developed a highly selective catalyst that can convert carbon dioxide to carbon monoxide with 92 percent efficiency. The nano-porous silver electrocatalyst offers high selectivity and is significantly more active than other catalysts, making it a promising route for clean energy.
A new Penn study found that moderate to severe hot flashes continue for nearly five years after menopause and affect over a third of women. The findings challenge current guidelines recommending hormone therapy not exceed 5 years.
Researchers found that tree density in savannas is influenced by moisture availability, temperature, soil fertility, and fire frequency, but these relationships differ significantly among Africa, Australia, and South America. The study predicts different responses to global warming across the continents.
Researchers at Boston Children's Hospital have developed a new pathway to reverse lung diseases in mice by coaxing the production of healthy cells. By enhancing the natural signaling pathway, they successfully increased the production of alveolar epithelial cells, which line the small sacs where gas exchange takes place.
The study reveals that the internal bacterial diversity of the red postman butterfly is halved during pupal stage and doubles after emergence as an adult. This discovery highlights the importance of the microbiome in insect health and behavior, with potential implications for pest control and understanding the evolution of unique traits.
Intel joins NYU WIRELESS as an affiliate sponsor to explore millimeter wave technology for next-generation small-cell network technologies. The collaboration aims to address growing demand for wireless bandwidth and ensure consumers have access to desired data services.
Researchers discovered a stem-loop structure in viral RNA that blocks host cell immune proteins, allowing viruses to evade the immune system. By altering this structure, scientists hope to develop treatments that restore natural virus-fighting capabilities and stop or slow viral infections.
A new adjuvant, IL-33, enhances the immune response to cancer cells and viruses. The protein is being studied as a potential boost for vaccines against pathogens.
A recent study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that large amounts of choline are needed during pregnancy to support fetal development, and current recommendations may be too low. This increased demand is linked to elevated levels of homocysteine, which can cause birth defects.
A new database created by UNC Charlotte researchers identifies 306 'health legacy foundations' in 43 states, with critical information on location, asset values, and grant awards. The database helps bridge the gap in documenting philanthropic assets, which are expected to increase due to healthcare reform.
A recent study by Mainz biologists has identified novel genes that determine the division of labor in ants, showing how gene expression differs between castes. The research found that queens express more known genes related to solitary insects, while workers have unique, modified or novel genes.
A new MIT study found that passengers of low-cost upstarts tend to complain less about service quality than network carriers. In a study published in the Journal of Air Transport Management, Michael Wittman tallied airline-related complaints made to the U.S. Department of Transportation from 2002 to 2012.
Researchers from University of Southern Denmark and University of Copenhagen explain the mysterious ocean circles off the Baltic coast, revealing a toxic substance that inhibits eelgrass growth. The circular formations are formed when eelgrass plants trap mud containing sulfide, which weakens older plants in the center.
Researchers at University of Oregon gain insight into bone regeneration in zebra fish, finding two molecular pathways that work together to replace lost bones. Understanding these mechanisms could support the design of regenerative therapies for humans.
Researchers at the University of Adelaide have developed a new type of laser that can detect very low concentrations of gases in exhaled breath and the atmosphere. The laser's high power and efficiency make it suitable for detecting gases such as methane and ethane, which are important in global warming.
Researchers reveal how auxins activate developmental genes in plants through specific transcription factors, unlocking key to understanding plant growth and development. The discovery sheds light on the complex mechanisms behind plant hormone regulation.
A new video game called Stroke Hero has been found to improve children's understanding of stroke symptoms and the importance of calling 9-1-1. The game, designed for kids aged 9-10, teaches them how to recognize stroke symptoms and take action in an emergency.
A large international study found an independent association between diabetes and depression as well as impulse control disorders, including binge-eating and bulimia. Depression increased the risk of diabetes by 30%, while binge-eating disorder increased the risk by 2.6 times.
A new study by Barrett Sullivan found that over 57% of websites carrying information on vertebroplasty provide 'unacceptable' content. Weighing the pros and cons is crucial for patients seeking treatment.
A new study by Brigham Young University researcher Peter Madsen finds that emphasizing project significance and safety can increase recognition of near-misses. This approach has been effective at NASA, where it improved safety reporting after the Columbia shuttle tragedy.
A team of researchers has successfully integrated key components of a quantum computer onto a silicon microchip, paving the way for the development of a practical quantum computer. The breakthrough enables the creation of a photon-based device capable of performing complex calculations, potentially rivaling modern computing hardware.
Non-alcohol drug prevalence in fatally injured drivers has increased significantly, particularly for marijuana, which tripled in 10-year period, according to Columbia University researchers studying toxicological testing data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration
Researchers at North Carolina State University have developed a novel approach to eliminate specific strains of bacteria using the CRISPR-Cas system. This method has shown promise in lab tests, eliminating targeted bacteria without affecting good bacteria and demonstrating precision in targeting different species.
A study by Alexandra Kalev found that corporate downsizing negatively impacts managerial diversity, particularly for white women and blacks, but performance-based layoffs mitigate this effect. The research also highlights the importance of internal legal counsel in promoting diversity during downsizing.
A combination of two drugs has successfully halted the growth of lung adenocarcinomas carrying KRAS mutations, a common genetic subtype of lung cancer. The treatment targets KRAS's accomplices rather than the gene itself, and its potential as a clinical trial is being explored.
A single dose of rituximab significantly reduces kidney relapses in children and young adults with frequently-replapsing idiopathic nephrotic syndrome, allowing for discontinuation of standard immunosuppressive medications. The treatment is also well-tolerated and improves kidney function.
Researchers at Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf develop a simpler method to align DNA nanostructures on surfaces, enabling the creation of self-aligned nanotubes with potential applications in electronic circuits. The technique uses electrostatic interactions and natural pattern formation to achieve alignment with high yield.
Researchers have discovered a potential cure for triple negative breast cancer using a vaccinia virus engineered to make cancer cells produce radioiodine. The discovery, published in The FASEB Journal, has shown promising results in laboratory experiments and offers new hope for treating deadly and resistant forms of cancer.