Researchers at the University of Washington have developed an iPhone app called BiliCam to determine the severity of jaundice in newborns without drawing blood. The app has the potential to improve healthcare in the US and save thousands of lives in low-resource countries.
A simplified frailty index based on the ACS NSQIP database can predict mortality and serious complications in older patients. Patients with high frailty scores had a significantly higher mortality rate and risk of postoperative complications.
A study found that heavy drinking in adolescence can lead to structural changes in the brain and memory deficits that persist into adulthood. Rats given daily access to alcohol during adolescence had reduced myelin levels and performed worse on a memory test later in life.
A CU Denver study reveals that upgrading bridges, roads and infrastructure can help mitigate flood damage. The researchers suggest using scour control methods and improving construction materials to increase resilience against future flooding.
Spices and herbs have been shown to reduce sodium intake by up to 966mg/day, increase satiety, and enhance energy metabolism. They also show promise in improving insulin sensitivity and cardiovascular health. A call to action is issued to bring flavor to the forefront of public health conversations.
Researchers used powerful lasers to create colliding jets of plasma, mimicking cosmic explosions and planetary cores. They also recreated a tiny laboratory version of solar flares and stellar explosions, creating a gigantic plasma tsunami in space.
Researchers developed a new way to calculate the electrical properties of individual components in composite materials, which could improve the energy efficiency of medical refrigerators, air-conditioned car seats, and other thermoelectric applications. The technique uses effective medium theory and allows for the separation of phase p...
A new study by NYU researchers reveals that individuals tend to prioritize restoring what they've lost rather than punishing an offender. When directly affected, people show a strong preference for compensation, whereas as third-party observers, they become more punitive.
A study of nearly 12,000 people in Belarus found that higher radiation doses were associated with more aggressive tumor features, such as spread to lymphatic vessels. The findings have implications for those exposed to radioactive iodine fallout from the Fukushima nuclear reactor incidents.
A new study found that children under 18 with appendicitis are more likely to experience a ruptured appendix if they live in areas with severe shortages of general surgeons. Younger children, especially those under 5, face the greatest risk due to delayed diagnosis and treatment.
A research team at UMass Amherst aims to understand the complex interactions between content providers, ISPs, and CDNs, with the goal of improving online video streaming quality. The researchers plan to apply interdisciplinary techniques from control theory and network algorithmics to develop new architectures for better coordination.
Researchers at Royal Holloway are working on a novel treatment for spinal cord injury, using an engineered form of chondroitinase to break down scar tissue and promote regeneration. The project aims to overcome the technical hurdle of delivering the protein to the injury site, a crucial step towards translating it into a clinical therapy.
Breeding salt-tolerant crops could be a game-changer in addressing soil salinity issues, threatening 3 hectares of usable land every minute. Researchers propose using 'salt bladders' to deposit excess salt, inspired by naturally salt-loving plants.
Researchers have successfully crystallized carbon monoxide bound to the FeMo-cofactor of nitrogenase, a long-sought structure that could reveal the enzyme's mechanism. The breakthrough, achieved by Thomas Spatzal and colleagues, uses optimized crystallization methods and tiny crystal seeds to accelerate growth.
Post-tropical cyclone Ana's remnant clouds are causing heavy rain and strong gusts in British Columbia, Canada. Environment Canada has issued wind warnings for several regions, with sustained winds near 21-29 mph (34-47 kph) reported at major airports.
Elderly men with self-reported sleep disturbances are at a higher risk of developing Alzheimer's disease. A 40-year follow-up period revealed that late-life sleep disturbances significantly increase the risk. Regular good sleep habits may support brain health and reduce the risk of Alzheimer's disease.
Research by Michigan State University scholars found that financial experts fail to consistently beat non-professional investors, suggesting average investors might handle their own portfolios for better results.
The NIH has awarded a $29 million cooperative agreement to investigate four rare disorders: Rett syndrome, MECP2 Duplications, CDKL5 disorder, and FOXG1 syndrome. The study aims to understand the core clinical features of each disorder and identify factors that can modify their severity.
The Lancet Commission argues that cultural understanding is crucial for advancing healthcare and prioritizing individual and community wellbeing. The commission highlights the need for greater recognition of cultural assumptions and biases among medical professionals.
Kokabee was imprisoned for refusing to contribute to weapons research in Iran and awarded the American Physical Society's Andrei Sakharov Prize for his courage. He continues to study from prison, teaching physics classes and promoting education among fellow inmates.
A recent study highlights the dangers of women delaying medical attention for heart symptoms, citing a higher likelihood of severe or advanced stage treatment options being limited. Women often attribute symptoms to other possibilities and exhibit an optimistic bias, waiting longer to seek care than men.
Canadian health organizations call on governments to implement policies that facilitate access to affordable healthy foods and beverages in workplaces, schools, and communities. This can help prevent diet-related diseases like obesity and hypertension, ultimately improving cardiovascular health.
Researchers at the DIII-D tokamak have demonstrated that lithium injections can transiently double temperature and pressure at the plasma edge, delaying instabilities. The results show a 60% increase in total energy-confinement time and improved performance of the plasma.
Scientists have created a voice recognition system that can identify subtle cues in speech to determine attitudes and opinions. The system, developed by researchers at the University of Washington, uses audio recordings to recognize patterns in speech, such as faster talking speeds and louder pitches when expressing strong opinions.
A pilot clinical trial at UTHealth Medical School found that AHCC increased the number and activity of Natural Killer cells, helping fight off infections and tumor growth. Five women achieved negative HPV test results after six months of treatment, with confirmed eradication in three.
Tea and citrus fruits/juices associated with reduced risk of developing ovarian cancer. Flavonols/flavanones found in foods high in these compounds significantly decrease ovarian cancer risk.
The VOICE trial found that regular use of tenofovir gel reduced the risk of herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) acquisition by 46 percent. Women who used the gel regularly were 20.2 percent likely to acquire HSV-2 compared to 11.6 percent among those who didn
Susan R. Wessler, a world-renowned expert in transposable elements, has been awarded the McClintock Prize for her exceptional contributions to plant genome structure, function, and evolution. Her research on plant transposable elements has led to significant findings on the impact of these elements on plant genomes.
A recent study by Ben-Gurion University of the Negev found that two-thirds of falls in basketball were intentional and 90% of the time no foul was awarded. The researchers believe that flopping does more harm than good from a team perspective, as it leaves teams with fewer defenders on the court.
Researchers at TUM developed a new process combining membrane separation processes to reduce energy consumption in powdered milk and whey production. By achieving higher dry matter concentrations, they can cut the energy consumed in subsequent evaporation and drying steps.
Researchers found that cautious fish are more vulnerable to fishing, while active exploratory behavior increases risk. Fish reared in enriched environments outperform those in traditional environments, showing improved survival rates in the wild.
Researchers are investigating the effects of aspirin and statins on preventing cardiovascular disease in people with long-term HIV infections. The study aims to reduce inflammation and improve blood vessel health in participants.
A recent study published in Geology reveals that harmonic tremor occurs within mountain glaciers and that individual icequakes can exhibit harmonic properties. This discovery suggests a complex network of fluid-induced fracture processes at the glacier base, which can lead to damaging floods in valleys below the glacier.
Researchers at CUORE collaboration achieve temperatures approaching absolute zero to study neutrinos, ghostlike particles crucial for matter's existence. The cooled chamber will house an ultra-sensitive detector for rare process called neutrinoless double-beta decay.
According to a new study, teenagers who live in California cities with strong social host laws are less likely to report drinking at parties. The researchers found a correlation between the laws and reduced underage drinking, but noted that more research is needed to determine the laws' effectiveness.
A new nanoparticle-based material developed by the University of California, San Diego, can absorb and convert over 90 percent of sunlight into heat. This breakthrough aims to improve concentrating solar power plants' efficiency, making them more competitive with traditional energy sources.
A simple awareness-raising campaign reduced distracted driving incidents by 50% among hospital staff. The intervention educated employees about the dangers of texting and cell phone use while driving, with significant long-term impact.
A new analysis of over 12,000 outbreaks affecting 44 million people worldwide reveals a rising trend in global infectious disease outbreaks, with 65% caused by zoonoses. Despite this increase, the impact of outbreaks is declining on a per capita basis.
A large analysis of over 40,000 individuals has identified two new genetic variants that influence how 'bad' cholesterol levels respond to statin therapy. The study found that these genetic variants collectively account for about 5% of the variation in inter-individual response to statins.
Researchers found that zebra finch pairs utilize their innate calls for bonding and cohesion, with brain activity correlating to these calls. This suggests an evolution of songbirds' brain regions from simple vocalization systems to specialized networks for learned songs.
A team of international researchers used DNA sequences to reconstruct the evolution of plants, revealing new insights into their relationships and adaptations. The study, part of the One Thousand Plants initiative, generated millions of gene sequences from diverse plant species.
Scientists have made groundbreaking discoveries about how space weather affects our planet, including the role of magnetic reconnection in accelerating solar wind particles. Researchers have also found significant differences in plasma density between the solar wind and magnetosphere, shedding light on this complex phenomenon.
Researchers have developed a technique that uses the bacteria's own CRISPR-Cas system to turn off specific genes or sets of genes, creating a powerful tool for future research on genetics. This approach allows researchers to better understand the role of individual genes and identify gene sets associated with problems such as multidrug...
A new ECG device, QTScreen, has the potential to identify infants at risk of long QT syndrome, a genetic heart condition that can be treated with medication. The device will be tested on 4,000 babies in Southern California and is designed to be easy to use for parents.
Radiologists in Singapore outline lessons learned from SARS to improve current Ebola outbreak response. The article highlights the importance of balancing clinical needs with patient and staff safety.
The JSA Initiatives Fund Program supports education, outreach, and career development initiatives at Jefferson Lab. The FY15 program includes new awards for 31 projects, with half supporting education and outreach programs.
Researchers found that Vitamin D-deficient asthmatics are at a higher risk of an asthma attack and that boosting levels may help manage acute episodes. The study analyzed medical records of nearly four million people and found significant immunomodulatory effects of Vitamin D on asthma.
Researchers propose that ancient cave paintings were inspired by the misinterpretation of sound waves as 'supernatural' echoes. The theory suggests that early humans may have made artwork in response to these echoes, which could have led to the depiction of mythical creatures on cave walls.
The project aims to make personalized medicine a reality for patients by using genetic information to guide drug therapy decisions. The UBC team will develop operating procedures for sample collection, processing, and sequencing, as well as training tools for patient awareness.
REACH ETHIOPIA, a collaboration between LSTM, has been awarded the 2014 Kochon Prize for its innovative community-based TB treatment approach. The project doubled TB case notification in a 3-million population and achieved a treatment success rate of 93%, demonstrating the effectiveness of bringing services closer to communities.
Researchers are conducting a comprehensive study to investigate the link between various factors and early menopause. The study will examine biochemical, reproductive, dietary, and lifestyle factors to determine their association with the risk of early menopause.
A recent study found that robotically assisted coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) surgery is a safe and feasible alternative to traditional bypass surgery, reducing complications and hospital stays. The procedure uses robotic precision to perform precise incisions with less blood loss and cosmetic scarring.
Researchers have identified the exact odorant receptor that repels mosquitoes, paving the way for better and more affordable insect repellents. The discovery of a plant defensive compound that mimics DEET could lead to new treatments for vector-borne diseases.
A high milk intake in both men and women has been associated with an increased risk of death and fractures, despite previous research suggesting the opposite. Further studies are needed to confirm these findings and determine potential causality.
Scientists at MIT and General Atomics successfully controlled the density of a fusion plasma using radio waves. The experiments revealed that turbulent density fluctuations intensify when most heat goes to electrons, which can be used to minimize turbulence and optimize core temperature under fusion conditions.
A population of giant tortoises has recovered on the Galapagos island of Española, with over 1,000 breeding and restoring some ecological damage. However, more work is needed to fully recover the ecosystem upon which the tortoises and other rare species depend.
A study found that combining digital mammography with tomosynthesis screening is more effective in detecting breast cancer among women with dense breasts. This combined approach avoids false-positive results and unnecessary procedures, making it a cost-effective option.
A new blood test has been developed to diagnose early onset Alzheimer's disease, detecting changes in the brain two decades before symptoms appear. The test shows high accuracy in predicting AD risk and has the potential to improve treatment options.
Cyclone Nilofar developed a massive 14-mile-wide eye that stared at NASA's Terra satellite on Oct. 28. The storm is forecast to make landfall in northwestern India, bringing heavy rains and strong winds.
Researchers found that adolescent binge drinking causes lasting damage to the prefrontal cortex's myelin sheaths, leading to impaired cognitive and behavioral control. This can lead to increased risk of alcoholism in adulthood and related psychiatric conditions.
Every day, 2,000 hectares of irrigated land in arid regions are degraded by salt, affecting 20% of the world's irrigated lands. The study estimates global economic losses at $27.3 billion per year due to salt-induced land degradation.
Researchers will investigate how the Western diet increases the risk of developing liver and gastrointestinal cancers. They also aim to determine if specific bifidobacteria species can mitigate the negative effects of a high-fat, high-sugar diet.
A global research effort has resolved a major biosecurity issue by identifying four destructive fruit fly species as one, Bactrocera dorsalis. The combination of these species will lead to improved international cooperation in pest management and enhanced food security for some of the world's poorest nations.
Researchers found that bioactive sphingolipids contribute to carcinogenesis via programmed cell death pathways and inflammation, but plant-type sphingolipids reduce inflammation and enhance SPL levels. These findings suggest a mechanistic link between diet and cancer prevention.
Researchers found that huntingtin protein activates signaling by mTORC1, leading to premature disease onset and worsening symptoms. The study offers new target for drug development, potentially preventing neurodegeneration through reduced mTORC1 activation.
Researchers at Vanderbilt University have developed a technique to test the effectiveness of anti-cancer drugs on individual patients' tumors in a dish, using fluorescence imaging to monitor the response. The test can detect significant drops in metabolic activity levels within 72 hours, allowing doctors to identify the most effective ...
A study by the University of Southampton found that women are less likely to apply for economics degrees due to a lack of A-level maths, resulting in an underrepresentation of women in the field. Despite having better grades in maths than male applicants, female students are still less likely to enroll in economics courses.
Hassanien's research focuses on non-traditional seeds, fruits, and spices from Egyptian, Indian, and Arabic origins. He has discovered bioactive compounds with potential health benefits and is exploring their commercial exploitation.
Researchers have developed a new technique using electromagnetic induction to create a flexibly designed microscopic trap for atoms. This breakthrough could revolutionize the development of quantum technologies, including high-precision sensors and superfast computers.
Researchers at Indiana University have found that a panel of microRNAs in plasma can accurately diagnose pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma, the most common type of pancreatic malignancy. The discovery could lead to a blood test for early detection and potentially improve treatment outcomes.
The Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter (LRO) has imaged the impact crater created by NASA's Lunar Atmosphere and Dust Environment Explorer (LADEE) mission. The crater is small, less than ten feet in diameter, due to the spacecraft's low mass and velocity.
Researchers studied wild chimpanzee behavior in the Taí National Park, finding that they plan their breakfast time, type, and location to access limited figs. Chimpanzees depart earlier for distant fig sites, positioning their nests near these locations to maximize food acquisition.
A report by Richard Wakeford highlights the shortage of doctors in general practice, with only 11% of new medical students planning a career in GP. The Medical Schools Council's lack of representation from GPs is a major concern, as it may hinder effective recruitment.
The hybrid micro-grid will test and demonstrate the integration of multiple large-scale renewable energy sources, ensuring a stable and consistent power supply. The initiative is expected to attract $20 million worth of projects over the next five years, supporting the development of practical renewable solutions.
Physicists at Brown University have successfully trapped parts of an electron's wave function in liquid helium, a phenomenon that could fundamentally change our understanding of quantum mechanics. The discovery raises questions about the measurement process and the nature of particles at the quantum level.
A new study at the University of Kentucky aims to address the challenges faced by individuals with autism as they complete high school and prepare for adulthood. The Collaborative Model for Promoting Competence and Success (COMPASS) will be adapted for young adults, focusing on skills training, social support, and transition planning.
Researchers improved plasma performance by applying lithium coatings, but the mechanism behind this improvement remains unclear. A new laboratory experiment found that temperature affects lithium's ability to retain deuterium particles, with oxygen exposure improving retention at lower temperatures.
A recent study published in Nature Communications has identified two genomic regions associated with responses to statins, paving the way for tailored treatment plans. With over 40,000 research subjects involved, this meta-analysis demonstrates a significant impact of gene profiles on statin efficacy.
A Brunel University study found that people are more likely to drop swimming if faced with higher prices, with a 29% decrease in activity. In contrast, other forms of exercise such as working out and brisk walking show minimal impact, suggesting targeted subsidies could boost participation.
Rare cancer patients face scarce clinical evidence due to conventional trial methodologies requiring large patient numbers. The European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer recommends alternative study designs and collaborative networking.
Researchers at General Electric and Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory have collaborated on designing a plasma-based power switch, which could contribute to the US power grid's advancement and reliability. The switch utilizes a compact, low-cost design, potentially reducing utility bills and enhancing grid efficiency.
A recent study found that home blood pressure monitors can be inaccurate, with systolic readings off by as much as 5mm Hg and diastolic readings off by as much as 10mm Hg in up to 30% of patients. The American Society of Nephrology recommends that all patients with home monitors get them validated with their healthcare providers.
A Boulder research team has developed a new technique to measure soil moisture, vegetation water content, and snow depth using GPS signals, which could significantly enhance the ability to monitor the water cycle. The technique, known as GPS Interferometric Reflectometry (GPS-IR), uses data from over 10,000 GPS stations worldwide to pr...
A study by an international team has shown that anonymous mobile phone call record data can be as accurate as traditional census-based maps. The findings have significant implications for infrastructure and emergency planners, particularly in low-income countries where recent population density information is often scarce.
A comprehensive analysis of sex-specific differences in end-stage kidney disease treatment found that more men than women are on hemodialysis. Women's survival after hemodialysis is virtually equal to men's survival, but they were not receiving treatment as early, leading to higher mortality rates.
Researchers from NUS observe a new reproductive mode in critically endangered white spotted bush frogs, breeding and laying direct-developing eggs in live bamboo. The discovery sheds light on the unique behavior of these frogs and highlights the importance of conservation efforts to protect their habitats.
Researchers found that simple text messages can help patients complete their full malaria medication regimen, boosting rates of treatment completion and reducing the risk of drug-resistant diseases. The study used SMS reminders in Ghana and showed a significant impact on treatment adherence.
Researchers at the University of Gothenburg have discovered a signaling pathway in granulosa cells that plays a key role in enabling immature eggs to survive. This mechanism serves as a biological clock monitoring the onset of menopause, allowing the granulosa cells to decide when eggs will begin to grow and when they will die.
Researchers found widespread antibiotic production by soil bacteria in tropical forests, with varying abundance and effectiveness across the landscape. This variation could influence plant disease, productivity, and forest composition.
Shiv Halasyamani, a professor at the University of Houston, has been recognized with the 2014 Roy-Somiya Award for his outstanding work in solvothermal research. His research focuses on hydrothermal and solvothermal synthesis of new functional inorganic materials.
Researchers at Virginia Tech developed mathematical models to predict cell transitions, gaining new understanding of transforming growth factor's role in EMT. The study confirms a sequential bistable switch mechanism for EMT, providing conclusive experimental proof for theoretical models.
Researchers found that adults rely on novel genes---called taxonomically restricted genes (TRGs)--found in honeybees to develop new traits. These genes are often expressed at high levels in specific tissues and provide specialized work for adult organisms, supporting the evolution of novel physiological traits.
The researchers sequenced the genome of enterovirus D68 from patients treated at St. Louis Children's Hospital, enabling additional research and potential diagnostic tests. The study found that seven of nine patients with the D68 strain had severe disease requiring ICU admission.
Tropical Storm Hanna made landfall near Nicaragua and Honduras on Oct. 27, bringing strong thunderstorms and heavy rainfall to the region. The remnants of the storm continued to generate isolated thunderstorms over Honduras and northern Nicaragua until they dissipated by Oct. 28.