Researchers use Hubble and Spitzer Space Telescopes to study super-Earths, discovering that water worlds are possible compositions. The team's analysis reveals that super-Earths could have acquired their mass by pulling in solid material from distant orbits.
A new study by the University of California, San Francisco reveals that smoking in California costs $18.1 billion annually, with a majority of smokers being 'light' users who abstain on certain days. The study found that smoking-attributable deaths were 17 times higher than those from AIDS and five times higher than those from diabetes.
Researchers at Oak Ridge National Laboratory have demonstrated a novel additive manufacturing method that controls the microstructure of metal components with unprecedented precision. This innovation holds significant potential for engineering, design, and energy-efficient transportation applications.
A 1985 mass mortality and a 2012 severe cold snap led to the deaths of nearly one-third of Camargue flamingo population. The study suggests that freezing temperatures increased the birds' energy demands, tipping them into starvation. The researchers found that the 2012 event had a lower death toll due to milder temperatures.
A study evaluated the rate of physician adherence to American Urological Association's BPH/LUTS guidelines over a five-year period. Provider adherence rates varied from 53% to 92.8%, with low rates for challenging measures like subjective symptom description and physical examination.
A new study by RAND Corporation found that strengthening medical malpractice laws did not lead to lower costs of care in emergency rooms. Despite increased protection from lawsuits, physicians continued to order unnecessary tests and hospitalize patients more frequently.
E-cigarette regulation by FDA could shift smokers away from lethal cigarettes and save lives. Clean-nicotine products may replace traditional tobacco, reducing nicotine levels and flavorings.
Researchers at Vanderbilt University have developed a robotic device that can treat severe epilepsy with a minimally invasive procedure. The system uses a shape-memory alloy needle steered by a robotic platform to destroy the area where seizures originate, avoiding drilling through the skull.
A new study finds that boys develop sympathy and altruism just like girls when they have a positive relationship with their siblings. Sibling relationships uniquely promote prosocial behavior, especially for teens who can count on each other.
Vetulicolians are a group of 500-million-year-old blind water creatures that have been confirmed as distant relatives of humans. The discovery reveals the high diversity of life during the Cambrian period.
West African chimpanzees employ a sophisticated tool-based technique, dubbed 'ant dipping,' to harvest army ants for sustenance. This study reveals that army ants are a significant component of the chimpanzee diet throughout the year, providing essential nutrients like protein and fats.
A new study published in The Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology found that substantial weight loss is more likely achieved through rapid weight loss programmes. Researchers compared two groups: one following a 12-week rapid weight loss programme with an average weekly weight loss of 1.5kg, and the other on a 36-week gradual weight loss pr...
A personalized cellular therapy called CTL019 achieved complete remission in 27 of 30 patients with relapsed or refractory acute lymphoblastic leukemia, with 78% remaining alive six months post-treatment. The treatment involves infusing engineered immune cells that target cancer cells.
A recent study by the University of Birmingham has found a lack of consistency in assessing patient outcomes in clinical trials. This inconsistency can lead to biased and poor-quality data being used to inform policy decisions.
A new INFORMS study found that product placement in television programs can reduce audience loss during commercials by up to 10.8%, with coordination between brands and networks leading to increased audience sizes and benefits for advertisers and networks alike.
A study on epaulette sharks reveals they are tolerant to elevated CO2 levels, which could help them survive ocean acidification. The findings suggest these sharks make physiological adjustments to cope with the changes, maintaining oxygen transport and energy without apparent harm.
Research reveals a significant association between psoriasis severity and uncontrolled hypertension, with patients having the greatest likelihood of uncontrolled hypertension experiencing more severe skin conditions. The study's findings suggest a need for effective management of blood pressure in these patients.
Researchers found that patients with severe psoriasis are more likely to have uncontrolled hypertension, and the likelihood of hypertension increases with greater psoriasis severity. The study used objective measures of psoriasis severity for the first time, providing new insights into the link between psoriasis and blood pressure.
Researchers found that a particle size of 50 nm is optimal for anti-cancer nanomedicines, with enhanced performance in vivo and improved tumor inhibition.
A study found that each additional euro spent on pensions and public health insurance in Eastern Germany increased life expectancy by 3 hours. Public health care had a greater impact, contributing 2.5 times more to life expectancy than pension payments.
A new study shows that jellyfish falls are rapidly consumed by deep-sea scavengers, revealing the importance of gelatinous material to food webs. The research challenges previous negative assessments and suggests that jellyfish blooms may provide essential nutrients to deep-sea ecosystems.
Leading cardiologists will debate the use of e-healthcare services to reduce heart disease in China. The congress aims to find effective ways to reach the public and make them aware of the risks involved in an unhealthy lifestyle and diet.
A recent study found that increased natural gas production will not significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions, as market effects dominate. The global deployment of advanced natural gas technology could even lead to up to 10% higher CO2 emissions by the middle of this century.
A demonstration project made progress in introducing a patient-centered medical home approach at safety net practices serving vulnerable populations. Nearly half of practices achieved substantial implementation of key features within four years.
Researchers found that rock gobies can rapidly change their color and brightness to match their surroundings, making them expert camouflagers. This adaptation helps the fish avoid predators, particularly birds and larger fish that prey on them at low tide or high tide.
Researchers found evidence that Pacific sleeper sharks, a large and slow-moving species, may be preying on juvenile Steller sea lions. The study used archival tags implanted in the sea lions to track their movements and found that some of the tags recorded rapid temperature changes, indicating predation.
Research suggests that children's interest in science is more strongly linked to actual scientific knowledge when raised in more fortunate socioeconomic circumstances. The study found a significant correlation between science interest and achievement in wealthy nations, whereas no such link was observed in poorer countries.
A recent study found that expanding global natural gas production will not significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions worldwide. Instead, it could displace lower-emitting energy sources and accelerate economic growth.
Scientists use ultrashort light pulses to observe the reaction of electrons with a crystal grid, revealing a coupling process that explains superconductivity. The study paves the way for research into high-temperature superconductors and introduces a new method for studying materials.
Researchers have developed a simple and inexpensive method to remove arsenic from contaminated groundwater using discarded cigarette ash coated with aluminum oxide. This method is particularly useful for rural and developing regions where access to advanced treatment technology is limited.
Scientists have developed a new family of materials for making household LED bulbs without using rare earth elements, which are increasingly expensive. These materials, made from copper iodide, offer a warm white glow and low-cost solution process, showing significant promise for general lighting applications.
Researchers have found that sharks' habitats help them cope with acid oceans by reducing sensitivity to rising CO2 levels. The epaulette shark's ability to regulate its systems and tolerate low oxygen levels makes it better equipped to handle ocean acidification.
A federal prescription-subsidy program improved adherence to hormone therapy among low-income women with breast cancer. The program's success was attributed to lower out-of-pocket costs, which reduced disparities in adherence rates across racial and ethnic groups.
The article highlights the role of pattern recognition receptors in regulating immune responses and their potential as novel targets for developing potent new therapies. The JAK/STAT signaling network also plays a crucial role in disease pathogenesis, and targeting these networks may lead to improved treatments for various diseases.
An analysis of statements from 51 recognized civilian heroes found that most describe their acts as intuitive, rather than deliberate. This suggests that high-stakes extreme altruism may be largely driven by automatic, instinctual processes.
Researchers found dramatic differences in flow velocity patterns and forces on river beds between gravel and sandy models, disproving a popular theory. The study's new parameters improve predictive models for nutrient and pollutant transport and provide insight into organism behavior in the narrow zone where rivers meet their beds.
A 15-year study found thousands of birds are attracted to artificial lights during their first flights, leading to high mortality rates. Turning street lights off decreased the number of grounded fledglings, suggesting a link between light pollution and bird deaths.
The NIH has granted a license agreement for a candidate Ebola vaccine that also protects against the rabies virus. Studies have shown the vaccines are safe and induce immune responses in monkeys, offering protection against the Zaire strain of Ebola.
A Washington State University study found that consumers are willing to pay a 10 percent premium for environmentally labeled meat products, leading to significant water savings in livestock production. The research suggests that moderate price premiums can have a greater impact on water conservation than high premiums for niche products.
A new NASA study reconstructing North American drought history over the last 1,000 years found that 1934 was the driest and most widespread drought of the millennium. The severity was attributed to a combination of high-pressure systems and dust storms caused by poor land management practices.
York University researchers found that reminding people of their religious beliefs promotes less hostile reactions in threatening situations. The study involved nine experiments with 910 participants and consistently supported the hypothesis across different religions.
The University of Illinois Chicago has established a new Research and Training Center to study the experiences of family caregivers caring for people with disabilities. The center aims to improve the health and well-being of individuals with disabilities and their families by understanding their needs and challenges.
Assessing pandemic risk from flu viruses is an enormous challenge due to the vast diversity of influenza viruses. Scientists call for better integration of experimental data, computational methods, and mathematical models to predict pandemic risk. They stress the importance of remaining vigilant against unknown high-risk viruses.
Astronomers have discovered a Uranus-like planet 25,000 light-years away, which orbits one star in a binary system. The planet's composition remains unknown due to its immense distance from the star.
New research suggests that extinct giant kangaroos likely walked instead of hopped, with stiff backs and strong joints supporting their body posture. The study analyzed anatomical differences in limb bones compared to other kangaroo species.
A new study reveals SIRT6 can promote the development of skin cancers by increasing inflammation and cell proliferation. Inhibition of SIRT6 expression decreased COX-2 levels and tumor growth in mice.
The Pitt team is creating novel alloys and manufacturing processes for implantable medical devices made from dissolving metals. These devices can adapt to changes in a patient's body and dissolve once healing has occurred, reducing complications and medical expenses.
The study found that measles death rates were 197 times greater in developing countries than in developed countries, while syphilis death rates were 33-45 times higher. Ebola mortality rates were also significantly higher in developing countries, with 4,447 deaths compared to just two in developed nations.
Researchers found sthenurine kangaroos, an extinct family, had a sturdy spine and broad pelvis, ideal for weight-bearing on one leg. This contradicts the modern kangaroo's hopping habit, suggesting bipedal walking as their slow-speed locomotion.
A study by Iowa State University researchers found that workplace bullying victims often feel silenced due to fear of being disbelieved. Supportive co-workers and managers can help create a culture where victims feel heard and believed.
Researchers found that eating breakfast, particularly protein-rich meals, increases levels of a brain chemical associated with feelings of reward, which may reduce food cravings and overeating later in the day. This study suggests that incorporating breakfast into daily routines can help prevent obesity.
Researchers developed a new test called ADNEX to accurately diagnose ovarian tumours and choose the most appropriate treatment. The test uses clinical information, tumour marker blood tests, and ultrasound scan features to discriminate between benign and malignant tumours with high accuracy.
The University of Texas at San Antonio has been awarded a five-year, $640,000 grant from the National Science Foundation to create a scholarship program for economically disadvantaged students. The program aims to increase the number of students completing undergraduate degrees in biology, chemistry, or physics.
Researchers at IRCM uncover the essential role of a protein called Numb in maintaining proper compartmentalization within photoreceptor cells, leading to vision loss and degenerative diseases like retinitis pigmentosa. The discovery could provide novel drug targets for preventing photoreceptor degeneration.
The American Academy of Neurology and the American Association of Neuromuscular & Electrodiagnostic Medicine have developed a new guideline for determining the specific subtype of limb-girdle or distal muscular dystrophy. This guideline is based on a thorough review of available studies and provides recommendations for evaluating sympt...
Researchers showed subjects a list of positive and negative words, then asked them to walk on a treadmill while measuring their gait and posture. The study found that those who walked in a depressed style recalled more negative words from the earlier list, suggesting a link between walking style and mood.
A study by Cornell Food & Brand Lab found that trivial elements like graphs and formulas can lead consumers to believe products are more effective. The researchers concluded that presenting consumers with 'scientific looking' information increases product confidence because individuals trust the appearance of scientific validity.
Researchers at UNC School of Medicine have discovered a new way to generate more blood vessels following a heart attack by turning fibroblasts into endothelial cells. Increasing the level of p53 in scar-forming cells significantly reduces scarring and improves heart function after heart attack.
A new study suggests that genetic variants associated with ADHD also predict attention and language deficits in the general population. The research found a positive association between polygenic risk scores for ADHD and traits of hyperactivity/impulsiveness and attention, as well as a negative association with pragmatic language abili...
Using Structure-From-Motion Photogrammetry, researchers are creating high-resolution 3-D models of cliff formations in Colorado and Utah. This approach allows for detailed analysis of layered rock formations and the impact of erosion on landscape formation.
Research suggests that human activities such as clear-cutting and fire suppression have a greater impact on forest tree composition than climate change. The study analyzed 190 datasets to determine the relative impacts of climate versus altered disturbance regimes for various biomes across the eastern United States.
Researchers found that eating muffins made with polyunsaturated oils improved blood cholesterol profiles and reduced the risk of cardiovascular disease. In contrast, those who ate muffins with saturated oils experienced increased bad cholesterol levels and insulin resistance.
The Virginia Institute of Marine Science (VIMS) is working to protect the historic village of Werowocomoco from erosion and sea-level rise. The project aims to create a living shoreline that mimics the natural habitat of the Native Americans who once inhabited the site.
A new study led by University of Michigan researchers finds that microcystin-producing cyanobacteria in Lake Erie are becoming more sensitive to phosphorus, suggesting current reduction targets may not be enough to curb blooms. The team also suggests invasive quagga and zebra mussels may be driving the trend.
A new technology aims to offer the ultimate listening experience by understanding how the brain perceives vertical sound. Researchers will develop software that converts 2D recordings into 3D using psycho-acoustic analysis and critical listening tests.
A growing body of evidence links metal fumes to a heightened risk of bacterial lobar pneumonia in welders. New data shows welders are more than 3.5 times as likely to die from pneumococcal pneumonia compared to other workers.
A study by American researchers found that low-income mothers who attribute their poverty to having children tend to suffer greater levels of depression due to feelings of guilt and helplessness. Those who blame problems in romantic relationships experience more anxiety, possibly due to a lack of control over domestic issues.
The new approach to diversity in medical education focuses on differences beyond race and ethnicity, acknowledging shared experiences that no longer track simply with race. Achieving this requires a commitment to diversity that is inseparable from an institution's identity and success.
Prostate cancer cells hoard copper, and researchers have found a way to deliver a trove of copper along with a drug that selectively destroys the diseased cells. This combination approach could lead to improved treatments for late-stage disease.
Research published in JAMA Psychiatry found that leisure time physical activity reduces depressive symptoms and risk of depression, with a protective effect across the entire population.
A University of Cincinnati research project is tracking methane levels in private wells and springs before, during and after fracking in the Utica Shale region. The study's findings indicate that organic matter is the primary source of methane in groundwater wells, with relatively low levels detected.
Researchers found that deacetylase inhibitors can fully restore movement problems caused by the LRRK2 Parkinson's mutation in fruit flies. This study provides compelling evidence for a direct link between defective transport and movement problems, suggesting a potential therapy for people with this specific mutation.
A study of hospitalized cardiac patients found that effective treatment with positive airway pressure therapy reduces 30-day hospital readmission rates and emergency department visits. Patients who adhered to PAP therapy had a 30% lower risk of hospital readmission compared to those who used partial or no PAP therapy.
A new study published in The Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology found that gradual weight loss is not more effective than rapid weight loss for achieving long-term weight control. In the trial, participants who lost weight quickly were more likely to achieve target weight loss and had lower drop-out rates.
A team of scientists found that female mice are more resistant to respiratory infections due to the presence of an enzyme called nitric oxide synthase 3, which is triggered by estrogen. The researchers hope to develop drugs targeting this enzyme to improve resistance to common lung infections.
A study reveals key details of prehistoric marine croc group Machimosaurus, showing adaptations for various habitats similar to modern-day crocodiles. The ancient species varied in body length and features, with some living in open seas and others in coastal environments.
Researchers at NYU Langone Medical Center are working on a five-year contract to discover fundamental immunology, microbial genetics, and protein structure of Staphylococcus aureus. The goal is to identify Sa antigens that are crucial for effective immune defenses.
Astronomers discovered that nearby dwarf spheroidal galaxies lack star-forming gas, while those beyond a certain distance have abundant hydrogen. The Milky Way's gravity affects the composition of its smallest neighbors, shutting down star formation.
A team of scientists has uncovered a new mechanism controlling actin-rich protrusions that aid in cell migration, a process essential for development, wound healing, and immunological responses. GMF protein plays a key role in regulating these protrusions.
Nathaniel Putzig, a senior research scientist at SwRI, has been awarded the NASA Planetary Science Early Career Fellowship for his work on detecting ground ice within sand dunes across the southern hemisphere of Mars. The grant will support his research project using morphologic and thermal data.
Researchers found that warm oceans had significantly lower oxygen levels during the Paleocene-Eocene Thermal Maximum, leading to widespread deoxygenation. This discovery could help scientists better understand climate change impacts on marine life.
A novel strategy combining nanoparticle technology with FDA-approved photodynamic therapy has been developed to effectively kill deep-set cancer cells in vivo. The treatment uses low-power, deep-tissue-penetrating light to activate the cancer-killing drug, showing improved destruction of tumors with minimal damage to surrounding tissue.
A Danish study found that women aged 15-24 years old were more likely to be sexually assaulted, while those who consumed over 5 units of alcohol were at risk of being attacked by a stranger. The study highlights the need for awareness and education among healthcare professionals, police, and the general public to prevent sexual assault.
More frequent physical activity was associated with fewer depressive symptoms across various age groups, while less frequent activity increased symptoms. The study used data from over 11,000 participants and found a significant correlation between increased physical activity and lower levels of depression.
The UK tops the global league table for gullet cancer, specifically adenocarcinoma, in men. This type of cancer has seen a significant increase in high-income countries, particularly among men. The strongest risk factors for adenocarcinoma include acid reflux and obesity.
A new study by Brown University researchers estimates that increasing condom use among HIV-positive male sex workers could reduce the annual infection rate among their partners from 8% to 5.2%, while increasing antiretroviral therapy could slash the rate to 4.4%. The study also found that making interventions work, such as counteractin...
A study from Cornell University shows that familiarity and partisanship significantly impact how candidates are perceived. Unfamiliar candidates were viewed more objectively, without partisan biases.
Scientists have created the world's thinnest electric generator by harnessing the piezoelectric properties of a single atomic layer of MoS2. The device is optically transparent, extremely light, and bendable, making it ideal for wearable applications.
Researchers at UCLA have discovered that fibroblasts can transform into endothelial cells, which form blood vessels. This finding suggests a potential new strategy for improving heart repair after a heart attack.
Researchers at UT Arlington are developing a new technology to detect metal fatigue in aircraft parts using micro- and nano-scale analysis. This will enable early detection of potential damages, ensuring safety and reducing costs.
Scientists have developed a breath analyzer for dolphins, allowing for non-invasive diagnosis of health issues. The instrument captures metabolites in dolphin breath to identify changes associated with disease or environmental factors.
A study published in the Journal of Healthcare Risk Management found that anesthesia-related deaths have declined, but complications persist. The research highlights the importance of patient communication, thorough medical history, and preoperative assessments to prevent injuries.
The series examines four distinct phases in Latin American countries' history of health system reform and universal coverage. It highlights the importance of social determinants, intersectoral action, and solidarity-based financing schemes to achieve universal health coverage.
Tropical Storm Ana is intensifying in the Central Pacific Ocean, with maximum sustained winds near 70 mph. The storm is forecast to become a hurricane by late October 15 and may impact Hawaii on October 16.
Research by Professor Wendy Webster uncovers the mixed reactions to foreigners in Britain during WWII, from welcome for Black GIs to hostility towards civilian refugees. The Mixing It project results in a book and Imperial War Museum exhibition examining diverse experiences of war workers, soldiers, and refugees.
A large-scale population-based study found that removing the entire lobe of lung may offer better overall survival compared to partial resection and stereotactic ablative radiotherapy. The study also suggests that SABR may be a suitable alternative to surgery for elderly patients with multiple medical problems.
Researchers pinpoint key moments in the beginning of DNA replication, including structural details about the enzyme that unwinds the DNA double helix. The study's findings offer insights into how the enzyme becomes reactivated to begin its work splitting the DNA.
Researchers have challenged conventional thinking on bowel cancer development, proposing a new mechanism involving crypt-generating stem cells. The study found that these stem cells are responsible for maintaining and regenerating the 'crypts' in the bowel lining, and their dysfunction may lead to precancerous and cancerous growths.
A new way of syncing music with video has been discovered, increasing the memorability and commercial impact of TV ads. By making small adjustments to the soundtrack, researchers found a marked improvement in memory response.
A new software program, SOGP 1.0, enables researchers to reconstruct historical global precipitation patterns, providing insights into major weather events like the Dust Bowl. The tool allows for detailed analysis of oceanic and land-based data, improving our understanding of climate change.
Harvard researchers found that only 26% of psychiatrists offered appointments despite making multiple calls, highlighting the challenges faced by patients seeking mental health care. The study also reveals a significant difference in success rates between cities, with Houston having the most accessible psychiatric services.
Researchers will screen proprietary enzymes for digestibility of common ingredients found in Canadian pork and poultry feed and develop commercial products to improve feed conversion and producer profit margins. The project aims to reduce strain on the environment due to decreased animal waste and improve overall animal growth and health.
Researchers develop models to identify migratory patterns of species and find they do not stay put over millions of years. UC geologists also recreate ancient Ohio environments using mud cracks and deposits, providing insights into significant ecological change.
Hurricane Gonzalo has become a Category 4 storm in the Atlantic, its first major hurricane in three years. According to NOAA's GOES-East satellite imagery, Gonzalo features tightly wrapped bands of thunderstorms spiraling into its center.