A study found that more competition among physicians is associated with lower prices paid to them for common office visits. The research, published in JAMA, analyzed data from 1,058 US counties and found that less competition was linked to higher prices.
A handheld device developed by UT Arlington researcher Yuze Sun can analyze a person's breath to reveal the presence of hazardous gases, such as those specific to diabetes. The device has the potential to non-invasively monitor blood sugar levels and detect chemical markers in complex samples.
A flexible approach to managing disease outbreaks, called adaptive management, allows for real-time updates to contain outbreaks more quickly and efficiently. This approach could lead to significant savings in livestock losses and improved outcomes in cases like foot-and-mouth disease.
Researchers have discovered a highly stable cubic garnet material called LLZO that can enable the development of higher-energy battery designs. The material remains structurally stable over time across neutral and extremely alkaline environments, making it an ideal separator material for lithium-ion batteries.
A new five-year project aims to dramatically upscale banana breeding efforts in Uganda and Tanzania, developing high-yielding, disease-resistant hybrids with a 30% higher yield and 50% resistance. The effort is being funded by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation to improve the region's $4.3 billion yearly banana crop.
A new study reveals that asymmetric perceptions of opponents' motivations drive historic conflicts, but financial incentives can alleviate these tensions. The research found that providing accurate motivation assessments can lead to increased empathy and optimism for conflict resolution.
A study published in the Journal of Creativity in Mental Health found that animal-assisted therapy significantly reduced anxiety and loneliness symptoms among college students. The program, led by Dr. Leslie Stewart, involved interacting with a registered therapy dog named Sophie, resulting in a 60% decrease in self-reported symptoms.
Researchers have made significant progress in understanding the pathophysiology of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), leading to the development of novel molecular therapies. Current therapies are often ineffective or have unknown long-term efficacy, but new treatments show promise in treating IBS symptoms.
A legal trade in rhino horn could generate funding for conservation efforts, allowing communities to harvest horns from deceased animals with minimal risk. This could help reduce poaching demand in Asia and support local income generation, while also improving rhino population protection.
A study analyzing 1.5 million births in US hospitals found significant variation in cesarean delivery rates, with rates ranging from 8% to 48% across hospitals. The analysis adjusted for maternal factors and hospital characteristics but did not account for parity or gestational age.
The researchers have developed a novel measurement technique for MRI signals using a diamond sensor chip, detecting the signal from a single hydrogen atom and achieving an accuracy of better than one angstrom. This breakthrough brings them closer to imaging at the level of single molecules, with potential applications in structural bio...
Scientists developed a deeper understanding of ideal mesoporous nanoparticle design to maximize catalytic output. They modeled molecular movement within narrow channels and found that the optimal channel diameter balances pore size with reactant and product passage.
A new study by University of California, Berkeley researchers found that hospital acquisitions and consolidations increase patient costs in California. The study analyzed data from four years and found that per-patient expenditures were higher for physician groups in multi-hospital systems compared to those owned by physicians.
Researchers at MIT and Saudi Arabia have developed a method to remove salt from produced water using electrodialysis, which can be economically viable for treating extremely high-salinity water. The technology could reduce the need for fresh water from other sources and minimize contaminated water disposal.
A new study found that hospitals converting to for-profit status improve their financial health but do not lower the quality of care they provide or reduce their service to poor or minority patients. The researchers assessed 4,571 hospitals over an eight-year period and found no noticeable change in patient outcomes or access to care.
Researchers at Emory University School of Medicine have identified a protein called urokinase-type plasminogen activator or uPA that helps brain cells recover from injuries induced by loss of blood flow. The study found that treating mice with uPA after an experimental stroke can improve their recovery of motor function.
A study published in Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology found a strong link between early-life exposure to peanut protein in household dust and peanut allergy in children genetically predisposed to a skin barrier defect. Exposure to peanut protein was associated with a three-fold increase in risk of school-age peanut allergy.
Middle-aged adults with depression tend to evaluate their past and current lives negatively, yet they also believe in a brighter future. Research suggests that this optimistic belief may not lead to better outcomes for these individuals.
A new study suggests that personalized nutrition plans based on an individual's genotype could significantly reduce the risk of obesity, heart disease, and Type II diabetes. However, concerns over personal data protection are hindering widespread adoption of nutrigenomics, a relatively new branch of nutrition.
A recent study published by the American Society of Nephrology found that binge drinking in young men is associated with an increased likelihood of developing high blood pressure. In contrast, low to moderate alcohol use in early adulthood is linked to a reduced risk of hypertension in females.
The HP Apollo 8000 platform uses warm water to cool its servers, reusing it to heat the building, reducing energy consumption by 74% and saving $1 million annually. The system's liquid cooling approach provides high computational density in a small space, setting a new standard for energy-efficient data centers.
Researchers at NC State University have made significant advancements in the genome editing technique CRISPR-Cas, identifying key molecular elements that drive its activity. The study sheds light on how guide RNAs interact with the Cas9 endonuclease, enabling more precise genetic modifications.
A new preservation technique, sequential subnormothermic ex vivo liver perfusion (SNEVLP), has been shown to prevent ischemic type biliary stricture following liver transplantation using grafts from donations after cardiac death (DCD). SNEVLP reduces bile duct and endothelial cell injury post-transplantation compared to cold storage.
A UC San Francisco research team found that a specific microRNA, miR-30a-5p, plays a central role in the development of alcohol addiction by lowering levels of protective protein BDNF. Increasing miR-30a-5p levels in the brain region mPFC reduced BDNF and led to excessive drinking behavior.
A study published in JAMA found that hospital-owned physician organizations in California incurred significantly higher expenditures for patients compared to physician-owned or multihospital system-owned organizations. On average, hospital-owned organizations had $4,312 per patient, while physician-owned organizations averaged $3,066.
Researchers found that dietary iron plays a crucial role in regulating the liver's circadian clock, which can disrupt blood glucose levels. Eating high-iron foods at night may exacerbate this issue for shift workers, increasing the risk of metabolic disorders. More research is needed to determine optimal iron intake for shift workers.
A study by Ohio State University found that playing violent video games in 3D leads to higher anger levels compared to traditional 2D systems. Immersion in the game environment is a key factor contributing to this increased anger.
Researchers at The Wistar Institute identified a new viral mutation that may explain why middle-aged adults were disproportionately affected by the H1N1 virus in 2013-2014. The study suggests that updating seasonal influenza vaccines with new viral strains could be crucial to protect this population.
University of Oregon chemists use special microscope to visualize traps that disrupt energy flow in carbon nanotubes. The study provides a detailed view of internal structures of electronic waves trapped by external electrostatic charges.
Research shows that people associate specific facial traits with personality traits, leading to biased decisions. Studies have found that faces associated with competence, dominance, and friendliness influence social outcomes, such as election results and military rank attainment.
Researchers at the University of Maryland's Supply Chain Management Center have developed a user-ready online portal to help companies sense and respond to cyber supply chain risks. The portal combines cybersecurity, enterprise risk management, and supply chain management to provide benchmarking and anonymous industry peer comparison.
Scientists from Queen's University Belfast have made a groundbreaking discovery in attosecond science, tracking ultra-fast electron movement within a nanometer-sized molecule. This research has implications for understanding how radiotherapy kills cancer cells and improving solar cells.
NASA's Aqua satellite detects snow on ground in Nepal and southwestern China as Cyclone Hudhud moves over the region. The MODIS instrument captured the image of snow on October 16, revealing the unusual weather phenomenon.
A new approach to disease outbreak management proposes using real-time information to adapt interventions, potentially saving up to £20 million in livestock losses. This flexible approach aims to improve outcomes by incorporating scientific discovery with policy making.
Researchers compared three X-ray phase tomography methods to determine which perform best for various conditions. The study found that holotomography and single-distance phase reconstruction outperform X-ray grating interferometry in terms of spatial resolution and contrast-to-noise ratios.
Researchers identified 149 metabolites with altered concentrations in patients with non-small cell lung cancer compared to those at risk but without the disease. The study suggests a potential diagnostic biomarker for early lung cancer detection.
A new study by the Institute of Food Technologists found that red tomatoes with firm texture, medium size, and high juice content are preferred. Consumers also value factors like familiarity with manufacturers, taste, price, and perceived health benefits.
A new study found that US osteoporosis screening guidelines failed to identify the majority of younger post-menopausal women who experienced major fractures. The guidelines recommended testing and treatment for women aged 65+, but only predicted fractures in around 25% of those aged 50-64.
Researchers at North Carolina State University have developed a new software that estimates the range of electric vehicles by analyzing traffic data, weather, road grade and other variables. The tool uses a predictive, big-data approach to reduce range estimation error to a couple of miles and achieve 95% accuracy in some case studies.
The POLARBEAR collaboration has made the most sensitive measurements yet of the cosmic microwave background's polarization, revealing telling twists called B-modes that indicate cosmic history imprints. These findings suggest a new regime in precision cosmology, paving the way for solving mysteries about matter and energy at the Big Bang.
Phytoplankton, tiny photosynthetic organisms, play a crucial role in regulating the Earth's carbon content. A new study reveals that viruses can rapidly wipe out blooms, fixing large amounts of organic carbon in the process.
A study by Sam Houston State University's Crime Victims' Institute found that Texas campus police often fail to respond effectively to stalking cases due to victim fears and lack of policies. The report calls for improved strategies and partnerships between law enforcement and colleges to better support victims.
A model describes how a person's size determines their carrying capacity, not just body weight. The study reveals that smaller individuals can comfortably carry more pack weight than expected.
Researchers found that once CD8 T cells fight one pathogen, they join the body's innate immune system, ready to respond to a wide variety of infections. This discovery suggests that adaptive CD8 T cells can contribute to innate immunity and may have important implications for vaccine design.
A new study found that smoking status significantly influences neurocognitive recovery in treatment-seeking alcohol-dependent individuals. Active-smoking ALC showed poorer recovery than never-smoking ALC on measures of learning and processing speed, while former-smoking ALC recovered less than never-smoking ALC on processing speed meas...
Scientists analyzed DNA from ancient European skulls and found that they were intolerant to lactose for 5,000 years after adopting agriculture. Major technological transitions in Central Europe were associated with changes in genetics of these populations.
Researchers discovered that certain peptides undergo a triplet state when exposed to UV light, leading to greater damage than fragmentation. This finding may help develop better UV protection mechanisms.
A recent study found that nearly two-thirds of FDA-recalled dietary supplements still contain banned substances months after being taken off the market. The study analyzed 27 supplements and found that 66.7% contained at least one pharmaceutical adulterant.
A recent study found that searching health service pricing websites before receiving care resulted in lower claim payments for clinical services such as laboratory tests and advanced imaging. The study included medical claims from 2010-2013 of over 502,000 patients who used a price transparency platform to find prices.
Researchers have linked age-related loss of the Y chromosome (LOY) to higher mortality and cancer rates in men. LOY was found to decrease men's lifespan by an average of 5.5 years, and increase their risk of dying from cancer.
A large-scale study published in CHEST shows a striking decrease in mortality rates for acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) from 46.8% in 1996 to 32.2% in 2011, with an 8.9% absolute reduction between 2000-2005. Advances in critical care medicine are seen as the primary cause of this decline.
A new study published in CHEST journal found that CPAP compliance does not impair sexual quality of life in patients with sleep apnea. The research surveyed 52 patients on CPAP and found no significant difference between compliant and non-compliant groups.
A study found that bar attendance is strongly linked to higher drinking among US border youth, while liberal social cognitions were not a significant factor. Researchers suggest that policy initiatives targeting bars and controlling access to alcohol could help reduce elevated drinking in the region.
A new study has shown that even the lightest fingertip touch can significantly reduce sway in people with balance issues. The research, led by the University of Birmingham, found that this phenomenon is due to a sensory weighting mechanism that combines individual sensory feedback and motion cues from a partner.
New research finds that rainfall patterns, not just amount, influence landslide risk. Scientists developed a model to predict landslides based on rainfall variability. Changing winds in Antarctica are also causing coastal glaciers to melt at an accelerated rate.
A study published in eLife has found that favipiravir is effective at lowering norovirus levels in the body, which may help reduce disease severity and prevent onward transmission. The experimental drug works by causing the virus to self-destruct through a process called lethal mutagenesis.
A novel methodology for investigation using modern mass spectrometry has been developed to investigate tumour-promoting activities of breast fibroblasts. This allows for the direct determination of undesirable cell activities in cancer-associated fibroblasts, which may promote tumour growth.
Researchers found that only five factors can distinguish individuals who commit homicide from those who don't, including lower IQs and higher exposure to violence. The study aims to dispel myths about homicide perpetrators being psychopaths or drug addicts with severe mental illness.
A new study at Southern Methodist University is testing whether students can learn algebra by authoring their own stories based on their personal interests. The research aims to improve long-term understanding of algebraic ideas and make math more accessible and captivating for students.
A study of 237 converting hospitals found that for-profit status improved financial margins, but no association was found with changes in care quality or patient outcomes. The findings suggest that regulators and policymakers should consider the potential benefits of for-profit conversions primarily on financial health.
Research suggests that physical exercise preserves beta cell function, reducing complications and improving blood sugar control. However, large-scale trials are necessary to confirm the benefits of exercise in slowing the onset of type 1 diabetes in children and adults.
A new UK study has found that teenage self-harm is associated with a higher risk of developing mental health and substance misuse problems as adults. The research, which analyzed data from over 4,700 adolescents, reveals that even non-suicidal self-harm can increase the likelihood of depression, anxiety, and other issues.
Scientists have developed a novel probe that uses tarantula venom to visualize electrical activity in neurons and other cells. This breakthrough could help researchers better understand ion channel dysfunctions leading to conditions such as epilepsy and cardiac arrhythmias.
A study published in Anales de Psicología found that individuals with a higher vocabulary level had a lower risk of mild cognitive impairment. The research team measured vocabulary levels, years of schooling, and other factors in 326 subjects over 50 to explore the relationship between vocabulary and cognitive reserve.
The Rutgers technology uses rare earth nanocrystals and infrared light to reveal small cancerous tumors and cardiovascular lesions, allowing for earlier detection and potentially reducing treatment costs.
A new animal study found that a walnut-enriched diet improved learning skills, memory, and reduced anxiety in mice. The researchers suggest that walnuts' high antioxidant content may protect the brain from degeneration typical of Alzheimer's disease.
The Weizmann Institute of Science has developed a novel, highly active interferon variant called YNSalpha8. PASylation technology extended its half-life in the body, resulting in improved protection from disease progression in a mouse model of human multiple sclerosis.
A study by University of New Hampshire researchers found that 14% of school-age children were physically assaulted at school, while 48% experienced some form of victimization. The survey revealed high rates of intimidation and bullying, emphasizing the need for effective violence prevention programs.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins University found that massive black holes can block the formation of new stars in mature galaxies. The study suggests that these jets of radio-frequency feedback streaming from central black holes prevent hot gas from cooling and collapsing into baby stars.
A novel procedure using MRI and catheterization techniques eliminated bronchial casts causing respiratory distress in a child with heart disease. The treatment offers new hope for patients with plastic bronchitis, a rare but often fatal complication of pediatric surgery.
Researchers at Temple University Health System found that patients with non-cardiac chest pain experienced improved pain tolerance and reduced symptoms when treated with dronabinol. The study suggests a potential new approach for treating this condition, which affects an estimated 200,000 Americans annually.
The Integrated Science Instrument Module (ISIM) of NASA's James Webb Space Telescope withstood 116 days of extremely cold temperatures, simulating conditions found in space. The successful test ensures the telescope will function correctly at its final destination one million miles away from Earth.
Research finds that individuals with a history of depression and hostile marital relationships experience reduced calorie burn and higher insulin levels after consuming high-fat meals, leading to potential weight gain and metabolic syndrome. The study highlights the importance of treating mood disorders in preventing obesity.
Hurricane Gonzalo stirred up ocean sediment off Bermuda's coast, as captured by NASA's Aqua and Terra satellites. The satellite imagery revealed sediment streaming east and south of the island.
A new RAND Corporation study finds that eliminating ACA subsidies would increase premium costs by 43% and cause enrollment to drop by 68%. The study suggests that without subsidies, prices would jump sharply and many people could not afford coverage.
A new adaptive management approach could improve outcomes in disease outbreaks by allowing for quick updates to interventions based on real-time information. This flexible approach has been proposed as a way to contain outbreaks more efficiently and effectively, saving lives and millions of dollars.
A new study has identified high levels of drinking among low-income older adults, with spikes in consumption around social security check dates. The study used a novel approach involving bogus recycling bins to assess alcohol consumption and found that medical conditions like diabetes may reduce drinking rates.
A large-scale study has found that combining anti-inflammatory medications with antidepressants can have a positive impact on treating depression. The analysis confirms a correlation between inflammation and depression, suggesting that personalized treatment options may be possible.
Researchers designed microwave circuits that can transmit high-frequency signals with sufficient power, paving the way for faster wireless data transmission. They aim to demonstrate 100 Gigabit per second wireless data transfer within a few years.
Researchers from St. Petersburg State University developed a theoretical model for quantum memory in light, adapting classical hologram concepts to a quantum system. They demonstrated the possibility of retrieving specific portions of stored quantized light signals with precise control over space and time.
The nation's first tsunami evacuation refuge is being built in Washington state to shelter over 1,000 people within a 20-minute walking distance. The vertical structure will be the roof of an elementary school gym, designed to withstand massive earthquakes and storm surges.
Scientists have identified two promising candidates for blood-borne biomarkers that could lead to a simple screening test. Abnormal DNA methylation patterns and microRNAs show promise in detecting colorectal cancer.
A University of Kansas doctoral student proposes using social networks as a source for photo-vouchered biodiversity records, particularly for insects and other organisms in developing nations. The proposed system leverages metadata associated with photos, requiring users to tag posts with terms indicating biodiversity elements.
A new study reveals how flu vaccines prevent heart attacks by stimulating the immune system to produce antibodies that protect the heart. The research identifies a protein called BKB2R as the key mechanism behind this protective effect, and suggests it could be harnessed to develop a vaccine against heart disease.
New research finds that less-numerate investors are more susceptible to style and presentation effects of social responsibility reports, potentially leading to unintended judgments. Companies can design CSR reports with a uniform approach to project strategy, aligning text and graphics to convey information effectively.
A team of researchers led by NOAA's Office of National Marine Sanctuaries discovered two significant vessels from World War II's Battle of the Atlantic, the German U-boat 576 and the freighter Bluefields, approximately 30 miles off the coast of North Carolina. The discovery provides a rare window into a historic military battle and the...
The grant will establish home health services for clients with intellectual and developmental disabilities, providing primary care, mental health, and specialty services. The project aims to extend care coordination and compassionate service integration across institutions.
Researchers found Madison's urban heat island effect peaks in summer, with downtown averaging 7 degrees warmer at night and 3 degrees warmer during the day compared to rural areas. The study also highlights the impact of snow cover and vegetation on temperature differences between urban and rural areas.
Paleontologists uncover fatal stab wound in allosaur's pubis bone, suggesting stegosaurs wielded their tails as deadly weapons. The discovery challenges conventional views of stegosaurs as lumbering plant-eaters, highlighting their impressive dexterity and fighting skills.
The study shows solar energy prices dropping by 12-19% nationwide in 2013, with a projected further decline of 3-12% in 2014. This trend is expected to continue over the next couple of years, helping the nation meet its 2020 targets.
A new paper by University of New Hampshire scientists warns that cosmic rays pose a significant threat to future manned deep-space exploration. The study finds that extremely low densities and magnetic field strengths in the solar wind create hazardous radiation levels that limit allowable days for astronauts behind spacecraft shielding.
A new study published in Cell reveals that our biological clocks work in tandem with the populations of bacteria residing in our intestines. The findings show that mice and humans with disrupted daily wake-sleep patterns exhibit changes in gut bacteria composition and function, increasing their risk for obesity and glucose intolerance.
A new study examines changes in alcohol use among women with unwanted pregnancies and finds that most quit or reduce consumption upon discovery. However, some may substitute alcohol for drugs. The study's results highlight the need for interventions to help these women reduce their drinking while pregnant.
Tropical Storm Ana is still affecting parts of Hawaii on October 20, according to NASA's Aqua satellite imagery. The storm's eastern quadrant covered the islands of Kauai and Niihau, with strong southwesterly wind shear pushing clouds and showers north and east of the center of circulation.
A new study found that both short and long sleep durations are associated with an increased risk of developing ulcerative colitis. The study, published in Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology, followed over 90% of nurses for biennial questionnaires to examine the association between sleep duration and incident disease.
A new collaborative model in cancer care at Duke University Hospital has shown a significant reduction in hospital readmissions and improvements in patient outcomes. The 'co-rounding' format integrates palliative care into daily inpatient care, resulting in decreased intensive care unit transfers and earlier discharges.
A new study shows that adding extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) during CPR significantly improves survival rates and neurological recovery in cardiac arrest patients. In a study of 100 ECMO procedures, 53% of patients were discharged with full neurological recovery.
A study by Stanford researchers found that medical practices in less competitive health-care markets charge more for services. The study analyzed U.S. health-care data from 2010 and found that areas with lower competition had higher prices for office visits, translating to tens of billions of dollars in extra spending.
Ilina Krishen developed a screening tool to detect early lung damage in smokers, while her sister Medha created another for hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) in student athletes. Both tools use electronic stethoscopes to analyze frequency peaks of breath and heart sounds.
Most medical research findings are false due to biases and perverse incentives, notes John Ioannidis in PLOS Medicine. He suggests redesigning research careers and structures to encourage better work, with a focus on testing interventions for improvement.
Research from Durham University found that Alpine Chamois have decreased in body size over the past 30 years, with young animals now weighing 25% less than those of the same age in the 1980s. The study suggests that climate change is affecting how chamois behave, leading to reduced body size.