A new international study reveals that people in high- and middle-income countries are more likely to drink heavily if they have access to cheap, off-premise alcohol. The study found that heavy drinkers tend to buy cheaper alcohol from off-premise outlets and purchase it at later times.
Researchers studied classical plays to reconstruct Europe's climate, finding rare 'halcyon days' of clear weather during midwinter. The study suggests these sunny winter days were a notable phenomenon in ancient Greece.
Researchers at Harvard School of Engineering and Applied Sciences envision a device that harnesses energy from Earth's infrared emissions into direct-current power. The proposed technology, published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, could provide a new source of renewable energy.
New research reveals that the ocean's surface acts as a sink for nitrogen oxides at night, removing about 15% of these chemicals from polluted air. The study measured dinitrogen pentoxide and nitryl chloride in the air above the sea surface, finding no net exit of nitryl chloride into the air.
A study led by Dr. Sergio A. Lira found that removing gut bacteria reduced polyp formation and inflammation in mice, potentially reducing colorectal cancer risk. The researchers propose a new approach to understanding the interplay between genetic mutations, gut bacteria, and inflammation.
A team of researchers used a computer model to simulate the effects of adding genes from cyanobacteria on photosynthetic efficiency in crops. They found that certain genes enhanced, while others hindered photosynthesis. The study suggests potential for a 60% increase in efficiency and a 40% boost in yields.
Researchers are exploring the potential of RM-131, a ghrelin agonist, to treat constipation in Parkinson's patients. The study aims to improve bowel function and reduce symptoms such as abdominal pain and diarrhea.
The Gordon & Llura Gund foundations have donated $3 million to Autism Speaks to support the Autism Ten Thousand Genomes program, sequencing over 3,000 genomes. This gift will enhance the organization's research and technology networks, leading to real-life medical impacts on individuals and families.
Veterans exposed to explosions may have brain damage despite lacking symptoms of traumatic brain injury (TBI), according to researchers at Duke Medicine. The study found comparable white matter damage in both groups, with no clear link between brain injury and cognitive problems such as reaction time or decision-making.
Researchers found that shoebox-shaped concert halls can enhance musical dynamics due to strong lateral reflections. This design could lead to better concert hall designs, improving the transmission of orchestra played dynamics.
NASA's Terra satellite reveals strong thunderstorms around the center of Tropical Cyclone Kofi, with cloud top temperatures near -80C. The storm is currently moving southeast and expected to transition into an extra-tropical system by March 4.
A study found that 90% of bar aggression involves male initiators and female targets, often due to intoxication levels of the target rather than the aggressor. The findings suggest a culture where intoxicated women are perceived as easier or more blameworthy targets.
Researchers develop new metallic glass with high elasticity, enabling more durable golf clubs and improved space science applications. The material's ability to be bent and spring back into shape is controlled by understanding the initiation of shear bands, which can lead to failure.
Researchers at Université Laval discovered unusually high levels of the protein LINGO1 in people with essential tremor, which could lead to an effective treatment. The study found that inhibiting this protein may be a promising treatment avenue for essential tremor.
A team of researchers at New York University and the University of Texas at Austin has discovered that carbohydrates serve as unique identifiers for cancer cells. By analyzing the role of microRNA in regulating carbohydrate structures, the study reveals a new way to detect cancer using sugar-based biomarkers.
Soil bacteria, such as Mycobacterium smegmatis, use enzymes to efficiently scavenge hydrogen from the atmosphere, ramping up activity when carbon-based energy sources are scarce. This discovery has implications for understanding global climate processes and developing new catalysts for hydrogen fuel cells.
The American College of Surgeons publishes guidelines defining resources needed for effective and safe surgical care in infants and children. The recommendations are based on personnel, medical resources, and equipment, with three levels of care: Level I (highest), Level II, and Level III.
Patient satisfaction with treatment is greater when outcome information is specific to their treating physician, according to a study. This type of information helps patients set realistic expectations and make informed decisions about therapy selection.
A new study found that Medicare Part D prescription coverage significantly reduced hospital admissions by 8% and annual Medicare expenditures for hospitalization by 7%, resulting in aggregate savings of $1.5 billion per year. This expansion led to a 90% increase in seniors with prescription coverage.
Women with breast cancer who practiced yoga during radiation therapy experienced improved ability to engage in daily activities, better general health, and regulation of cortisol levels. Yoga also helped find meaning in the illness experience, which declined over time for women in other groups.
A University of Missouri researcher found that the youngest kindergarteners are about five times more likely to be retained compared to their oldest peers. This is due to differences in maturity and ability, with teachers needing to adapt instruction based on each student's needs.
A new analysis by University of Pittsburgh researchers offers insights for nonprofit hospitals in implementing community health improvement programs. The study categorizes existing community benefit programs into hospital-based and community-administered programs, highlighting the importance of engaging with local communities to achiev...
University of Cincinnati researchers discovered that high-frequency electrical stimulus increased blood vessel network growth by up to 50%, leading to enhanced wound closure. The team developed a specialized antenna for localized application and filed a provisional patent for their design.
A new study comparing prescription data from England and Wales has found that patients in England are up to seven times more likely to be prescribed expensive cancer drugs than their counterparts in Wales. The Cancer Drugs Fund has created an inequality in access to these treatments, raising ethical, moral, financial, and policy concerns.
The American Gastroenterological Association highlights significant new colorectal cancer (CRC) research in Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology and Gastroenterology. Studies reveal the impact of patient factors on colonoscopy preparation quality, as well as the relationship between dietary fiber intake and reduced CRC risk.
A national survey by Indiana University researcher Shahzeen Attari found that nearly 43% of participants cited taking shorter showers, despite toilets using the most water daily. The study highlights the importance of efficiency improvements like replacing toilets and retrofitting washing machines to conserve water.
Researchers at Harvard's Wyss Institute have developed a method to manufacture large objects using a fully degradable bioplastic isolated from shrimp shells. The bioplastic exhibits properties similar to synthetic plastics, but without environmental threats.
The TRMM satellite observed heavy rainfall and towering thunderstorms around Tropical Storm Faxai, with rain falling at a rate of over 89 mm/hour. The storm is expected to move north and intensify before becoming extra-tropical.
Researchers found that a plant pigment called quercetin could help prevent nerve damage associated with SMA. Quercetin treatment improved the health of nerve and muscle cells in zebrafish, flies, and mice.
Researchers analyzed chemical isotopes in hair and bone samples to track changes in Yosemite bears' diets over the past century. Management strategies implemented since 1999 successfully limited human food availability, but problems persist, with bears returning to dumpsters despite increased visitor numbers.
Researchers found higher levels of BPA in prostate cancer patients than non-prostate cancer patients, with low-dose exposure linked to centrosome amplification and cell transformation. The study suggests a previously unknown relationship between BPA exposure and prostate cancer development.
Researchers found that identical particles, such as bosons, exhibit overlapping patterns instead of interfering due to exchange effects. This challenges current understanding of quantum optics and has potential applications in precision tests.
A study published in PLOS ONE has clarified the number of moa species that existed, with researchers using a DNA barcoding technique to determine species status for the extinct Euryapteryx moa genus. The findings suggest that two species likely existed and possibly some subspecies, revealing complex species status.
A special issue of JACR explores improving CT exam safety through radiation dose optimization, considering factors like patient size and communication with pediatric patients. The issue includes articles discussing CT protocol review, decision support tools, and educational simulations to enhance optimization techniques.
A new study links bioluminescence with increased species diversity in the deep sea. Fish that use light for communication are diversifying faster than those using it for camouflage. Bioluminescent signaling may be critical to diversification of fishes in the deep sea.
A new Harvard University study found that women of different social ranks cooperate with each other less well than men do, but not when they are at the same rank. The research suggests that biological and cultural factors may contribute to these differences in cooperation.
Researchers have found that an ancient Chinese medicine extract blocks pathways to treat pancreatic cancer by inhibiting scarring and inflammation. The compound also appears to suppress Cox-2, an enzyme that causes inflammation, and has been shown to be safe for use in patients.
Researchers found that immigrants formed a sizable portion of Cahokia's population, contradicting traditional models of Native American groups. The analysis used strontium isotope ratios in teeth to determine the location of origin for individuals buried at the site.
A UCLA study suggests that young adult smokers may experience physical changes in their brains due to cigarette smoking, which could explain why adults who began smoking at a young age stay hooked on cigarettes. The researchers found that brain structure changes were linked to the amount of smoking exposure and nicotine dependence.
A new analysis of normal Type Ia supernovae reveals a range of masses, most near or below the Chandrasekhar limit. The SNfactory team used spectrography to 'weigh' the leftover debris, comparing masses and factors with light curves.
Researchers at Norris Cotton Cancer Center have developed an antibody that targets the ProAVP surface marker in small-cell lung cancer. The antibody, MAG-1, significantly slows tumor growth in mice and has shown promise as a potential treatment for recurrent small-cell lung cancer.
Researchers at NYU Langone Medical Center found that blocking the action of a key signaling molecule, Netrin-1, stalls chronic inflammation and insulin resistance tied to obesity. This could lead to further advances against diseases such as type II diabetes and atherosclerosis.
A new study confirms that global diets have grown more similar over the last five decades, leading to a decline in diverse local crops. This trend has major consequences for human nutrition and global food security, increasing the risk of food crises due to climate change.
A blood test has been developed to accurately screen for infection with the agent responsible for variant Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease. The test found 71.4% of patients with vCJD correctly tested positive, making it suitable for screening large populations.
Researchers at USC have found that an experimental drug protects the blood-spinal cord barrier's integrity in mice with ALS, delaying motor neuron degeneration and potentially offering new hope for treatment. The study suggests that repairing damage to the blood-spinal cord barrier may delay disease progression in people with ALS.
Researchers at NYU Langone Medical Center discovered that blocking Netrin-1 stalls chronic inflammation and insulin resistance, a link between obesity and type II diabetes. The study found that Netrin-1 signaling promotes macrophage buildup in fat tissue, leading to inflammation and insulin resistance.
Research shows that temperate ecosystems consisted of a mosaic of closed and semi-closed forests and parkland created by large grazers. The study also found that woodland beetles were less dominant in the previous interglacial period than in the early Holocene, indicating a shift towards more forested landscapes after human arrival.
African American men who endured greater childhood adversity are likely to experience disadvantages in health and relationships over time. Childhood adversity triggers an enduring pattern of psychological and physiological vulnerability to stress that undermines relationships in adulthood.
A computer model recommends a combination of interventions, including increased HIV testing, substance abuse treatment, needle and syringe exchange programs, and antiretroviral treatment as prevention to reduce HIV spread in NYC. The result would lower new infections by more than 60% by 2040.
Scientists have successfully created a stable two-dimensional electron gas in strontium titanate, allowing for the manipulation of its electronic properties. This breakthrough could lead to the development of novel magnetic effects and superconductivity.
A new study investigates whether a hangover can delay or hasten subsequent drinking, finding minimal effect on the timing of drinks. Researchers suggest alternative hypotheses linking hangovers and alcoholism, such as increased risk factors for losing control over drinking.
Researchers studied how anxiety affects political attitudes and found that induced anxiety leads to stronger anti-immigration beliefs. Watching thrilling videos increased physiological reactivity and influenced people's opinions, even when unrelated to politics.
Researchers have successfully activated an immune system response in mice by applying localized heat to tumors, which then targeted and eliminated other tumor sites. This innovative approach uses iron-oxide nanoparticles and magnetic energy to kickstart the immune system against metastatic tumors.
A randomized controlled trial found that moderate-intensity supervised exercise reduces excessive gestational weight gain and the risk of associated illnesses such as hypertension and gestational diabetes. The benefits are greatest in women of normal weight, but even overweight or obese women can benefit from exercise.
A new study found that binge drinking among older moderate drinkers significantly increases mortality risk compared to regular moderate drinkers. The study highlights the importance of focusing on drinking patterns and absolute amounts of ethanol consumed as predictors of health outcomes.
Researchers at Karolinska Institutet have successfully produced a molecule that blocks LTA4 hydrolase from producing LTB4, while maintaining the inactivation of Pro-Gly-Pro. This could lead to new hopes for treating chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and various types of inflammatory skin diseases.
Researchers have discovered potent antibodies in a KwaZulu-Natal woman's blood that can kill multiple strains of HIV. The study, published in Nature, could lead to new HIV vaccine strategies and improve treatment options.
A study of 1,055 physicians found that married women with children spent 8.5 hours more on parenting and domestic activities than their male counterparts, despite accounting for a spouse's employment. The finding highlights the persistent gender differences in household labor among high-achieving female doctors.
University of Cincinnati researchers are working on a new technology that manipulates light to create super-lenses with seven times the strength of a standard microscope, allowing for better viewing of tiny objects. The team also explores hiding objects in plain sight by cloaking them with metamaterial films.
Researchers have demonstrated a novel quantum dot laser grown on silicon substrates, performing as well as similar lasers grown on their native substrates. This breakthrough enables large-scale photonic integration in an ultra low-cost platform.
Researchers found that world-class orchestras can be accurately identified by silent video footage, but not through sound recordings. Participants scored significantly better when shown video-only clips than when played audio clips, suggesting visual cues about group dynamics and leadership play a crucial role in judgment.
A University of Cincinnati-led team studied four distinct magnetized nanoparticle systems to determine which one works best in delivering heat directly to cancer cells. The research found that uncoated iron-oxide nanoparticles and those coated with polyacrylic acid heated quickly to temperatures sufficient to kill breast cancer cells.
PhD students Katarina Bengtsson and Sara Nilsson have developed a significant step toward miniaturized gel electrophoresis by replacing traditional platinum electrodes with conducting polymer materials. This advance allows for faster and more reliable medical diagnoses and DNA sequencing.
A systematic review and meta-analysis found that outbursts of anger can trigger heart attacks, strokes, and other cardiovascular problems in the two hours immediately afterwards. The risk is particularly high for those with existing cardiovascular problems or a history of heart attack or stroke.
A study published in The Journal of Experimental Medicine reveals that gut microbes contribute to the development of intestinal tumors, leading to colorectal cancer. Disrupting gut bacteria with antibiotics prevented polyp formation in mice, suggesting a link between inflammation and tumor growth.
A new study published in Science has shed light on the structure of the Pacific Plate, revealing a compositional boundary that forms as rocks cool and change composition with depth. The research uses seismic tomography to image the interior of the plate and helps understand how it formed and evolved.
Researchers have identified specific behavior of PP1 by analyzing binding motifs with regulatory proteins. This discovery allows them to predict interactions with a significant number of proteins without resolving their structure.
Physicists Lawrence Krauss and Frank Wilczek suggest measuring minute changes in the cosmic background radiation could detect telltale effects of gravitons. They propose that gravitons exist as 'quantum fluctuations' during inflation, generating gravitational waves that affect CMB polarization.
A study found that Facebook usage is associated with increased appearance-focused behaviors and eating pathology in college women. The study suggests that the desire for social validation through likes contributes to maintenance of weight and shape concerns and anxiety.
Researchers have discovered a plant pigment called quercetin that targets the mutated gene causing spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), a leading genetic cause of death in children. Quercetin has been shown to improve nerve and muscle cell health in tests on zebra fish, mice, and fruit flies.
Researchers found that smartphone owners made fewer errors on the mobile voting system than traditional voting methods. The study suggests incorporating smartphone-based voting systems into the current process could improve efficiency and usability.
A study by Beaumont research found that minimally invasive transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion reduces chronic low back pain, hospital stays, complications and scarring. Patients demonstrated high satisfaction rates, being completely pain-free and returning to work and daily activities.
A new therapy has been developed to treat atrial fibrillation by targeting misbehaving nerves that cause the condition. The therapy, which involves adding four or fewer injections of 98% ethanol to radio wave ablation, appears to be more effective than standard surgical therapies.
Researchers have demonstrated the effectiveness of a small-molecule drug, BCX4430, in protecting nonhuman primates from the lethal Marburg virus. The drug protected cynomolgous macaques and guinea pigs from infection when administered by injection or inhalation.
The PROCEDE 500 study demonstrates that the Prolaris test provides personalized risk assessment for prostate cancer patients, leading to significant changes in treatment plans. The study found a 50% reduction in surgical interventions and a 30% reduction in radiation treatment.
Under the Affordable Care Act, an estimated 4 million people who have spent time in jail will gain access to continuous health care for conditions that increase the risk of recidivism. This could lead to reduced healthcare costs and a healthier community.
The article highlights the need for improved prison healthcare, citing that over 95% of prisoners will return to the community with significant health burdens. Experts recommend alternatives to imprisonment, improved oversight, and a 'risk-needs-responsivity' model to address chronic medical conditions and substance abuse after release.
Scientists discovered that Amazonian canopy trees have evolved unique chemical portfolios to optimize growth in different soils and elevations. The study found that these communities are organized into a large mosaic controlled by geological factors, providing insights into how forests assembled over evolutionary time.
A new computer model, BEEHAVE, simulates the life of a honey bee colony over several years, investigating the losses of honeybee colonies and identifying key factors affecting their health. The model shows that food availability, mite infestation, and disease are critical to maintaining healthy hives.
Carnegie Mellon University's Paul Eiss explores the 'narcomedia,' digital messaging used by Mexican drug cartels and government forces, revealing a nuanced conflict with shades of gray. The use of narcomessages has increased violence, physical attacks on journalists, and censorship.
The Affordable Care Act (ACA) has a profound impact on vulnerable Americans living with HIV/AIDS, significantly reducing the transmission of the disease and improving treatment outcomes. Early treatment initiation is crucial in preventing new cases and mortality, with estimated cost savings of $80 billion from 1996 to 2009.
A study published in Current Biology found that men are more likely to co-author publications with same-sex assistant professors, regardless of their own rank. In contrast, women tend to cooperate less frequently with colleagues of higher or lower rank.
Patients with rheumatic conditions are turning to herbal cannabis for symptom relief, but medical evidence is lacking. The study advises healthcare providers to discourage patients from using this drug as therapy due to potential harm and availability of other therapies.
Researchers from Mainz University demonstrated a new physical phenomenon that manipulates magnet states using electric signals. This breakthrough combines the merits of charge-based and spin-based devices, paving the way for new generation memory devices.
A large cohort study found that people with sleep apnea are more likely to develop pneumonia, especially those with severe symptoms and comorbidities. The study suggests that increased risk of aspirating contents or liquid from the throat may be a key factor in this association.
Researchers developed a comprehensive measurement method to visualize tumor cells and their interactions, providing insights into the heterogeneity of tumors. The new technique can simultaneously record 32 biomarkers and has the potential to pinpoint weak points in the control system, leading to more effective therapeutic approaches.
A study reveals that US military helicopters are vulnerable to bird strikes, with 2,511 recorded incidents across the services. The majority of strikes involved birds, with a high number of incidents reported in Florida, New Mexico, and Georgia.
In a study of 31 cougars, 62% of mortalities were attributed to human influences, including collisions and snaring. Human interactions with cougars are a growing concern for conservationists as the species recolonizes their historic habitats.
Research examining opioid painkiller use reveals that individuals initially obtain medications from friends and relatives, but as usage increases, prescriptions from physicians become a common source. The study emphasizes the importance of judicious prescribing practices to curb serious health issues.
The A-PARADDISE consortium aims to develop new drugs against four parasites, including schistosomiasis and malaria, which cause over one million deaths annually. Researchers will use histone-modifying enzymes as a target for new treatments, with the goal of paving the way for clinical trials.
A study of high-achieving young physician-researchers reveals pronounced gender differences in domestic activities among those married with children. Additionally, single-patient trials may help determine statin tolerability, while a US survey reports 2.7 million living with chronic Hep C virus.
Research published in the Journal of Clinical Investigation reveals that DLC1 suppresses breast cancer bone metastasis by inhibiting PTHLH production and regulating TGF-\u00b1 signaling. Clinical samples also show a correlation between reduced DLC1, elevated PTHLH, and bone metastasis.
A study by Michigan State University researchers used rats and vanilla frosting to identify genetic factors contributing to binge eating. The Sprague-Dawley rat strain was found to be prone to binge eating, narrowing the scope of possible genes involved in the disorder.
A new approach to breast reconstruction surgery, known as an enhanced recovery pathway, has been shown to reduce opioid painkiller use in patients by 50% and decrease hospital stays by a day on average. The method includes preoperative analgesics, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories, and resuming food and walking soon after surgery.
A team of researchers at the University of Pennsylvania has made a groundbreaking discovery about how climbing fibers provide feedback to Purkinje cells, allowing them to detect legitimate error signals amidst random firing. This knowledge will be fundamental to future studies of fine motor control and learning.
Researchers discovered abnormal molecular signaling pathways that promote chronic kidney disease progression, targeting endothelial mitochondrial oxidative stress and glomerular filtration barrier. New therapeutic targets may prevent or reverse disease, providing hope for millions of Americans affected by kidney disease.
A new study by Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and Johns Hopkins University found that an immune system-based therapy called nivolumab can produce lasting remissions in melanoma patients, with some patients remaining alive after two years without treatment. The therapy has been shown to block PD-1, a protein that restrains the immune syst...
A recent study at the University of Eastern Finland found that increasing fatty fish intake can increase large HDL particles in the blood, which protect against cardiovascular diseases. Regular consumption of fish, especially fatty fish like salmon and rainbow trout, may help improve lipid metabolism and reduce cholesterol levels.
Researchers have identified two intermediate steps in water oxidation reactions using an Earth-abundant solid catalyst, cobalt oxide. This discovery provides a better understanding of the individual events in the four-electron cycle and enables the design of improvements to boost efficiency.
A Rice University-led team of researchers found that liver cells up-regulate glycolytic pathway to produce more energy in response to disease, leading to net gain in metabolic output. The study suggests new treatments to delay liver failure by boosting glycolytic energy production.
Researchers found that levels of racial prejudice among white people drop significantly when they live in ethnically mixed communities. Positive contact between people belonging to different ethnic groups leads to more tolerant societies overall.
Researchers aim to create artificial platelets that can stick to injury sites and signal natural platelets to home in on them, offering a potential solution to bleeding disorders. The technology has broad applications in stanching bleeding and detecting diseases.
A yeast model of Alzheimer's disease has identified a drug candidate, clioquinol, that reduces amyloid-β levels by 90% and restores cellular protein-trafficking. The mechanism of action involves chelating copper, which makes Aβ more toxic.
A University of Minnesota study found that using treadmills at work increases physical activity by 7-8% and boosts productivity. Productivity improved as employees adjusted to walking while working, with a substantial increase in overall performance.
Researchers at the University of Michigan have created semi-transparent, colored photovoltaics that can generate electricity while maintaining their color. The cells are 10 times thinner than traditional solar cells and have a nearly 100% quantum efficiency, making them suitable for use indoors and in densely populated cities.
Researchers at UC San Diego discovered that direction-sensing cells in the retina send signals to the cortex, enabling brains to process directional movements. The study has practical implications for understanding and treating disabilities related to motion processing.
Research suggests that having a bedroom television is associated with weight gain in children due to disrupted sleep patterns. On the other hand, a weight-management program combining active gaming resulted in increased physical activity and greater weight loss among overweight and obese children.
Researchers have identified a new genetic syndrome characterized by severe allergy, immune deficiency, autoimmunity, and motor neurocognitive impairment. The syndrome is caused by mutations in the PGM3 gene, leading to underactive protein production and glycosylation defects.
University of Cincinnati researchers have made a breakthrough in boosting the efficiency of polymer solar cells by adding graphene nanoflakes, increasing performance threefold. The new method aims to make solar-powered panels lighter, less expensive and more flexible.