A recent Lumosity study analyzed over 60,000 participants to understand the effects of sleep, mood, and time of day on cognitive gameplay performance. The research found that memory, speed, and flexibility tasks peaked in the morning, while crystallized knowledge tasks such as arithmetic and verbal fluency peaked in the afternoon.
A study of 1,066 Scottish people found that those with complex jobs, such as social workers or architects, had better scores on memory and thinking tests. The results suggest that more stimulating work environments may help preserve cognitive function later in life.
A new study from Michigan State University finds that bad marriages are associated with a higher risk of heart disease in older adults, particularly women. The study analyzed data from over 1,200 couples and found that negative marital quality had a greater impact on cardiovascular health than positive quality.
The Bureau of Reclamation has awarded $9.2 million for 131 research projects focused on increasing water supplies, optimizing water availability under a changing climate, and improving water infrastructure reliability and safety.
Tropical Storm Adjali began curving to the southwest in the Southern Indian Ocean, with NASA's Aqua satellite capturing visible images of the storm. The storm is expected to weaken due to increased wind shear, cooler sea surface temperatures, and limited outflow.
Researchers at the University of Rochester have created a cloaking device that hides objects across a continuous range of angles, improving on previous devices. The device uses four standard lenses and is scalable to large sizes, working for the entire visible spectrum.
The Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) is establishing 14 new Research Training Groups to support early career researchers, while extending seven existing groups. The RTGs will focus on topics like urban water circulation systems, parasitology, and cold controlled ensembles.
The study, Mouse ENCODE, compared mouse and human genome regulatory elements to understand similarities and differences in gene control. Researchers found that the general principles of gene regulation are similar but with distinct details between species.
Researchers discovered a link between blood pressure hormone angiotensin and psychosis, while finding that increased cysteine levels may alleviate symptoms in people with Huntington's disease. Additionally, drugs targeting AMPA receptors improved social behaviors in autistic mice.
A new study found that terrorist attacks decrease fertility rates by reducing both expected children and live births. The researchers used a panel data set of 170 countries to measure the effects of terrorism on Total Fertility Rates (TFR) and Crude Birth Rate (CBR).
A new tablet-based app called CHAMP is connecting single ventricle heart defect patients to their doctors for real-time monitoring. The app has shown promising results in reducing mortality rates and decreasing the burden on caregivers.
A new study reveals that environmental bleaching events caused by rising sea temperatures are impairing long-term coral reproduction. Even corals that didn't bleach are experiencing reduced fertility, which can persist for three additional years after the initial bleaching event.
A new study shows that gut microbiota can influence the integrity of the blood-brain barrier, which protects the brain from harmful substances. The findings suggest that alterations to our indigenous microbiota may have far-reaching consequences for the blood-brain barrier function throughout life.
Scientists develop a thermoresponsive coating that changes the color of white LEDs when dimmed, creating a warmer glow. This innovative technology uses liquid crystal and polymeric materials to create a temperature-dependent shift in light emission.
Florida harvester ants exhibit annual nest relocation behavior, constructing similar subterranean nests about once a year. The frequency and size of relocations vary among colonies, with smaller ones relocating more often than larger ones.
As energy becomes scarce, daily life in Western industrial nations will downshift into simpler forms due to reduced consumption. Behavioral scientists aim to help people cope with the transition by pre-familiarizing them with the changes and encouraging small, voluntary social experiments.
Researchers used whole genome sequencing to track and control an Acinetobacter baumannii outbreak at Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham, identifying transmission hotspots and implementing new decontamination protocols. The study demonstrates the effectiveness of real-time genome sequencing in controlling hospital outbreaks.
Research reveals that annual plant growth in drylands is severely affected by droughts, but the ability to recover varies depending on the type of ecosystem and grazing regime. The study found that perennial plants dominate areas with higher drought resistance and lower recovery potential.
A new study published by the American Chemical Society finds that switching to cleaner heating oils could prevent up to 290 premature deaths and 550 emergency room visits in New York City annually. The study estimates that emissions reductions would benefit high-poverty neighborhoods the most.
A study by University of Northern British Columbia researchers found that drivers just older than the legal drinking age had a significant increase in motor vehicle crashes compared to those immediately under the restriction. Raising the drinking age to 19 years could prevent up to 583 police-reported collisions per year.
A new model suggests that intensive agriculture is the primary reason for increased seasonal oscillations in carbon dioxide, with average annual increase of 0.3 percent. The 'Green Revolution' farming practices are boosting atmospheric carbon dioxide levels, leading to a stronger seasonal cycle.
A new study by researchers at Intermountain Medical Center Heart Institute found no increased risk of breast cancer in women taking calcium channel blocker medications. The study, which analyzed over 3,700 women with long-term use of the medication, showed a minimal increase in risk and a 50% reduced risk in some cases.
Researchers found that mastectomies increased by 3.5% among women with early-stage breast cancer, with younger women more likely to undergo the procedure. The study also showed a significant rise in bilateral mastectomies and breast reconstruction procedures.
Scientists have found a biological indicator that can predict which women without BRCA1/2 mutations will respond well to the PARP inhibitor rucaparib. The biomarker is related to genomic loss of heterozygosity, and its presence indicates that patients with ovarian cancers may benefit from treatment.
Research found that Pseudomonas aeruginosa uses a sense of touch to detect hosts, allowing it to initiate infection without relying on chemical signals. The bacteria's ability to infect is linked to the PilY1 protein, which can be targeted for treatment.
Researchers at San Francisco State University have discovered that Hox genes are employed in the development of a range of vertebrate features beyond fins and limbs. The study reveals that this ancient genetic program is utilized in patterns such as barbels, vents, and claspers, expanding our view of its role in morphological diversity.
A new study reveals that crop productivity has increased by as much as 25% over the past five decades, contributing to a 50% rise in CO2 seasonality. The research highlights the impact of human activities on the Earth's atmosphere, particularly through intensive agricultural management.
Researchers have successfully treated cervical cancer patients with a combination of cidofovir and chemoradiation without increased toxic side effects. The treatment resulted in tumour shrinkage and complete response in 80% of patients, making it a promising new approach for HPV-related cancers.
A study by Brown University researchers found that older adults exhibit plasticity in their white matter, a different part of the brain than younger learners. This contradicts the long-held assumption that learning becomes more difficult with age.
A month-long residential program with strong linkage to community-based follow-up care enabled almost 30% of opioid-dependent participants to remain abstinent a year later. This study suggests that abstinence-focused, 12-step residential treatment may be a viable alternative to outpatient approaches for young adults.
Scientists have identified three proteins - GapA, CrmA and Mgc2 - essential for the gliding mechanism of Mycoplasma gallisepticum. This discovery could lead to developing a vaccine by targeting non-motile, non-pathogenic bacteria.
A small study found that home exercise can significantly reduce feelings of hopelessness in patients with coronary heart disease. Patients who walked or biked at home for at least three days a week experienced a 12% reduction in state hopelessness scores, even when considering other factors such as depression.
Researchers established induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells from Werner syndrome fibroblasts, which can be used for drug discovery and gene therapy. The iPS cells have recovered telomeric abnormalities and similar expression levels of aging-related genes as normal iPS cells.
Researchers developed a comprehensive model to describe photoexcited thin-film lattice dynamics, clarifying the physical and chemical properties of materials. The study used ultrafast X-ray diffraction to analyze the atomic movements in a crystal structure.
In 1966, Roger Penrose won the prestigious Adams Prize for his essay on space-time structure, while Steven Hawking received an auxiliary prize for his essay on singularities and spacetime geometry. These early awards laid the foundation for their later work on cosmology and black holes.
Researchers have developed a computational model to design fusion proteins that target cancer cells while minimizing harm to healthy cells. The model predicts the behavior of these proteins and can help identify promising candidates for drug testing.
A randomized clinical trial found that perineal self-acupressure helped participants break up hard stools, relax muscles, and stimulate nerves responsible for bowel movements. 72% of patients reported improvement in their constipation symptoms after performing the technique for four weeks.
Researchers discovered that cocaine users experience abnormal blood flow in the smallest blood vessels, putting them at risk for heart complications. This microvascular dysfunction may not be detected by regular testing, highlighting the need for more research on this understudied population.
Grigorchuk's influential paper introduced a new class of groups with counterintuitive results, expanding the field of geometric group theory. His discovery has had significant impacts on various areas, including fractals, dynamical systems, spectral theory, and finite automata.
The new regulations, while improving some aspects of school meals, may not address the root issue of processed carbohydrates and added sugars. Researchers recommend expanding requirements to limit added sugars and processed foods to ensure carbohydrate quality.
A new study examines the concept of 'femtorisks,' which refers to seemingly small-scale events that can trigger major crises due to interconnections in complex systems. The researchers suggest a model drawing on biological systems to adapt to unpredictable threats, and emphasize the importance of flexible governance.
A Penn-led team discovered that a specific set of cells in the brain are responsible for memory problems after sleep loss. By increasing levels of a signaling molecule, they prevented mice from having memory deficits.
Case Western Reserve researchers develop a procedure that restores breathing function in paralyzed muscles even after a year of injury. The treatment approach combines enzyme injection and intermittent hypoxia therapy to boost serotonin levels, reactivating the diaphragm and restoring normal breathing.
Researchers found that Losartan, an angiotensin receptor blocker, is as effective as beta blockers in slowing the growth of the aorta in patients with Marfan syndrome. The study included 608 patients and showed similar rates of tears in the aorta and no difference in deaths between the two groups.
A study by Indiana University researchers found nearly 60% of Latino adolescents experienced depression, with those having moderate acculturative stress being 10 times more likely to have depression. A yearlong program boosting self-mastery and resiliency is being developed to address this issue.
A study by Indiana University researcher Uzay Kirbiyik found that younger and male drivers in larger vehicles are more likely to survive head-on collisions. The study also revealed that vehicle inequities, such as weight and rigidity, contribute significantly to driver fatalities.
A new study found a strong link between environmental exposure to peanut protein during infancy and an allergic response to peanuts in children who have eczema early in life. Exposure to peanut in dust doubled the risk of peanut allergy, particularly in children with a history of eczema.
Researchers at PTB compared caesium and ytterbium atomic clocks, finding no detectable change in the mass ratio of protons to electrons up to a relative uncertainty of one part in ten million per year. This suggests fundamental constants remain stable over long periods.
Antonio Luque will receive the Karl W. Börner Solar Energy Medal of Merit at a ceremony on March 13, 2015. Luque is being recognized for his work in developing high-efficiency solar cells and stimulating the adoption of renewable energy in Spain.
A phase I trial of AG-120, an oral inhibitor of mutant IDH1, has shown clinical activity in patients with advanced acute myeloid leukaemia (AML) and the IDH1 mutation. The drug reduced 2-HG levels to normal, allowing cells to mature into normal functioning cells.
A new study suggests that adding mitral valve repair to coronary artery bypass grafting does not significantly improve patient outcomes. The trial found no differences in mortality, readmissions, or quality of life between the two groups at one year.
A study of American women aged 45-55 found that soy helps alleviate hot flashes in those whose bodies can produce equol, a soy metabolite. Women with the most soy in their diet experienced 76% fewer hot flashes compared to those with less soy intake.
Researchers used big data to identify crizotinib as a possible new coating for drug-eluting stents, which could reduce in-stent stenosis without affecting the endothelium. The study found that crizotinib reduced plaque buildup in blood vessels and prevented the narrowing of arteries after stenting.
A study led by NYU Langone Medical Center found that a mother's soothing presence can alter gene activity in an infant's brain, reducing pain and promoting emotional development. This research offers new insights into the short-term effects of maternal caregiving on a developing brain.
A study found that youths with a family history of substance use disorders have impaired forebrain function, which may contribute to their increased risk of developing substance-use disorders. Forebrain regions responsible for decision-making and impulse control showed less efficient activity in those with a family history.
Dartmouth researchers have created an AI software that uses images to locate documents on the internet with greater accuracy than ever before. The system, tested on over 600 search queries, shows a 30% improvement in precision over traditional text-based search engines.
A new study reveals that computer-based cognitive training can improve memory, speed, and visuospatial skills in older adults. However, self-directed brain training at home has no therapeutic effect on cognition. Training frequency is also crucial, with one to three sessions per week being most effective.
A new study analyzes individual results and population-level data to clear the paradox of faster heart attack treatment times. The findings show that treating more complex patients with emergency angioplasty and stents appears to be why mortality hasn't decreased with reduced door-to-balloon time.
Researchers suggest using shallow detectors on Earth's surface or in areas with low energy loss to detect dark matter signals. This approach aims to reduce background noise from cosmic radiation and increase the chances of detecting dark matter particles.
Researchers found better health outcomes in Nigerian city of Ibadan compared to Baltimore and Johannesburg, where teens reported high rates of mental health problems, substance use, and violence. In contrast, New Delhi teens reported little depression and cigarette smoking.