A University of Iowa study found that homemade strawberry-baking soda remedies have no effect on teeth whitening. In contrast, over-the-counter products, professional whitening, and prescribed whitening products produced discernible whitening results.
Researchers have developed a new type of energy-efficient flat light source using highly crystalline single-walled carbon nanotubes as field emitters, demonstrating potential for low-power lighting devices. The device has a brightness efficiency of 60 Lumen per Watt and requires only 0.1 Watt of power consumption.
A Mediterranean diet supplemented with extra-virgin olive oil or nuts helps reduce central obesity and blood glucose levels, reversing metabolic syndrome in 28.2% of participants. The study found no significant difference in new cases of metabolic syndrome between the two diet groups.
A study found that better performance on various quality of care measures at skilled nursing facilities was not consistently associated with lower risks of hospital readmission or death. SNFs with improved inspection ratings showed a slightly lower adjusted risk of readmission, but other measures did not predict clinically meaningful d...
A standardized slow enteral feeding protocol significantly reduces necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) and accompanying death in infants with extremely low birth weight. Infants on the slower protocol showed comparable weight gain, head growth, and NICU stay without increased mortality.
A new study published in Clinical Infectious Diseases reveals that up to four out of ten children in Burkina Faso are genetically resistant to rotavirus strains found in existing vaccines. Children who cannot express the Lewis molecule, a sugar molecule needed as a receptor for the virus, do not become infected and therefore do not rec...
Research suggests that effective interventions require a comprehensive approach addressing mental illness, substance abuse, trauma exposure, and social issues. New strategies aim to alleviate overrepresentation of individuals with serious mental health issues in the criminal justice system.
A study found hydraulic fracturing triggered a series of small earthquakes in Harrison County, Ohio, coinciding with operations at nearby wells. The 10 positive magnitude earthquakes, ranging from 1.7 to 2.2, revealed an east-west trending fault beneath the gas wells.
Researchers at University of Sussex have found that fruit flies can identify odours from illicit drugs and explosive substances as accurately as wine, a natural attractant. The study brings scientists closer to developing electronic noses (e-noses) that closely replicate the sensitive olfactory sense of animals.
Extra-Tropical Storm Vongfong transitioned into an extra-tropical storm early on Oct. 4 as its core changed from warm to cold while being monitored by NASA's Aqua satellite. The storm was located near 29.1 north latitude and 142.9 east longitude, about 111 nautical miles southeast of Misawa, Japan.
A Mount Sinai-led research team has discovered a new kind of stem cell that can become either a liver cell or a blood vessel cell, contradicting current theory on organ development. This discovery may hold clues to the origins of and future treatment for liver cancer.
Prescribed burns in Western Australia help reduce flammable fuel loads, protect lives and property, and maintain biodiversity. The practice is also used to rehabilitate vegetation after disturbance and undertake research on fire's interaction with the environment.
NASA's Aqua satellite captured images of Typhoon Hudhud's remnants over India, Nepal, and China on Oct. 14, confirming the cyclone made landfall near Visakhapatnam on Oct. 12. The storm caused significant damage and fatalities in eastern India.
Researchers used zebrafish to study a rare genetic disorder affecting a boy and his uncles, identifying a mutation in the RPL10 gene as the likely cause of their symptoms. The findings provide crucial first steps towards further research into the molecular details of the disease.
Dartmouth researchers are developing a virtual reality-based relaxation system to help astronauts cope with stress on long-duration spaceflights. The Virtual Space Station program uses virtual reality, sounds, and smells to create immersive experiences that promote relaxation and calmness.
A new study by Dana-Farber Cancer Institute reveals that a half-day educational program can help women manage side effects of ovary-removing surgery, including vaginal dryness, decreased libido, and anxiety. Participants reported significant improvement in sexual health, self-image, and emotional well-being after the program.
A team of MIT researchers assessed the Mars One mission's technical feasibility, highlighting the need for new technologies to keep humans alive on Mars. The study found that a system to remove excess oxygen and more advanced water extraction methods are required, among other innovations.
Researchers found a potential early detection window for pancreatic cancer in people with a family history of the disease. The study suggests that identifying susceptibility genes and designing risk management programs can help detect the disease earlier, improving outcomes.
Researchers created a nano-optical sensor to detect trace levels of lung infection in breath, aiming for commercial availability. The device could also monitor environmental conditions.
Engineers at TUM have developed a light-weight torque vectoring transmission for electric vehicles, which recovers braking energy more efficiently. The system, used in select top model cars with combustion engines, also enhances road handling dynamics and driving pleasure.
A comprehensive new evolutionary 'tree of life' for the tropical cotinga family has been generated, providing insight into the evolution of over 60 species. The study reveals that sexual selection appears to have played a role in the evolution of non-plumage gender differences in some cotinga species.
A recent study by Pamela Norum found a significant gap in common clothes repair skills between baby boomers and millennials. Baby boomers generally possess more knowledge of clothes repair and laundry than younger generations.
Numerous fires have been burning in Ukraine, likely caused by agricultural practices. Farmers use fire to clear land and return nutrients to the soil.
A cross-sectional study found that medical schools with stricter industry interaction policies had students report fewer gifts and interactions with marketing reps, suggesting these policies can reduce biases. The results suggest that limiting receipt of gifts should be a central feature of medical school regulations.
The 1934 drought was seven times larger than comparable droughts and nearly 30% worse than the next most severe drought, affecting nearly 72% of western US. Dust storms intensified the drought and spread it throughout the region.
A special issue of the American Journal of Botany highlights the importance of basic plant science for pressing global issues like applied agriculture. Research fields include plant ecology, evolution, and phylogenetics, which provide tools for cultivated plant production and sustainable agriculture.
Mathematician Alex Eskin has been selected as a 2014 Simons Investigator to tackle long-term studies of fundamental questions in mathematics. He aims to understand the behavior of billiard balls in various polygons, shedding light on ergodicity and randomness.
Researchers at UC Berkeley developed a novel protein-based material inspired by nerve cells, showing extreme sensitivity to environment. This discovery could lead to innovative biological sensors, flow valves, and controlled drug release systems.
A new study shows that consumers won't judge products by their country of origin if the products are well-made. Consumers consider a country's reputation when evaluating its products, but this doesn't mean negative stereotypes always harm business. Instead, countries with poor reputations can promote superior product features to succeed
Research from the University of Adelaide found that healthy eating and increased physical activity during pregnancy are associated with significant improvements in baby outcomes. Pregnant women who received dietary and lifestyle advice experienced reduced weight gain, increased fruit and vegetable consumption, and improved respiratory ...
Researchers have identified key factors contributing to pancreatic cancer, including inherited genetic predisposition and a higher risk of developing other cancers. Active smoking was also found to significantly impact age at diagnosis.
Researchers found melanoma cells create their own 'green light' signal using lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) to spread quickly and aggressively. This 'breadcrumb trail' allows cancer cells to travel rapidly around the body, making treatment challenging.
Astronomers develop a new laser-based technology called the green astro-comb to detect tiny Doppler shifts, helping identify habitable zone planets. The device will enable precise measurements of exoplanet gravity, allowing for better detection of rocky worlds like Earth.
Researchers at Kansas State University discovered a protein in caterpillar blood that helps insects detect fungal infections and trigger immune responses. The findings may lead to new ways to control disease transmission from insects to humans and animals, as well as novel methods for biocontrol of agricultural insect pests.
The house fly genome contains an expanded number of immune response and defense genes, as well as numerous cytochrome P450s for detoxification. These findings could lead to novel control methods against house flies, a primary vector for human diseases.
The EMA is exploring alternative approaches to clinical trials in rare cancers, recognizing the challenges of small sample sizes and the need for innovative methods. These discussions aim to enhance the evidence base for treatments in rare cancer patients, who face limited treatment options.
Roberto Bonasio, PhD, receives NIH New Innovator Award to study epigenetic memory in ants and its implications for biological processes. The award supports his research on gene expression controlled by epigenetic pathways that alter chromosome structure.
The sequencing of the house fly genome has identified unique detoxification and immune system genes that could aid in understanding human disease susceptibility. By studying these genes, scientists hope to develop treatments or vaccines for diseases transmitted by flies, such as typhoid and trachoma.
Researchers found that family doctors may not be detecting lung cancer signs promptly enough, with one in seven patients dying within three months. Chest x-rays performed in primary care had lower early death rates, but frequent GP visits increased the risk.
Tropical Storm Vongfong continues to weaken as it approaches Japan, with NASA satellite data showing significant impact from westerly wind shear. The storm's structure is being affected by the strong winds, causing most of the clouds and showers to be pushed to the east.
A study published in JAMA Internal Medicine estimates that there are 14 million smoking-attributable major medical conditions in the US. The largest cause of these illnesses is chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), with an estimated 7.5 million cases attributable to smoking.
A French scientist has developed an open source simulation method to calculate the actual cost of relying on a combination of electricity sources. The study found that an optimal mix contains a large amount of nuclear power and a small amount of fluctuating energies like wind and solar.
University of Iowa researchers found a gene in an amoeba that functions similarly to the human PTEN gene, which suppresses tumor growth. They tested the gene in mice and found it fully overcompensated for defects caused by mutated PTEN genes, potentially leading to new cancer treatments.
Scientists discovered that a common protease enzyme furin activates MERS-CoV to fuse with cell membranes and enter host cells. Blocking this process could lead to treatment by preventing the virus from infecting cells. The study found two cleavage sites on the spike protein, allowing for more spread in animals or humans.
Tropical Storm Fay has begun extra-tropical transition, weakening from hurricane status. The National Hurricane Center expects Fay to merge with a frontal zone and become an extra-tropical cyclone by tonight.
Researchers at North Carolina State University have developed a DNA-based drug delivery system that targets cancer cells using nano-cocoons made of DNA. The system uses self-assembling DNA techniques and specifically delivers anticancer drugs to cancer cells, releasing them quickly once inside.
Fossilized lamprey larvae, 125 million years old, have been discovered in Inner Mongolia, providing insights into the life cycle and evolution of this ancient fish. The study sheds light on the development of all animals with a backbone, revealing that human body features originate from jawless fishes like the lamprey.
A new study led by Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center found that fructose ingestion increases blood levels of the hormone FGF21, providing a reliable predictor for altered fructose metabolism. This discovery offers an avenue for further investigation into genetic and environmental determinants of metabolic response to fructose.
A study published in Annals of Internal Medicine found that medical residents' knowledge of High Value Care is essential for patient outcomes. The study used the IM-ITE exam and a hospital care intensity index to assess resident knowledge, revealing that conservatively managing patients was a key competency.
Swiss researchers have discovered a new parasite species that represents the missing link between fungi and extreme parasites. The study reveals that microsporidia adopted intracellular parasitism first, followed by genome modifications such as the loss of mitochondria and metabolic simplification.
A new study examines the implications of re-contacting patients with new genetic information, exploring consent, communication, and expectations. The research aims to provide evidence-based recommendations for an ethical framework regarding patient re-contacting.
Researchers have discovered a fusion protein in approximately 15% of secondary glioblastomas, offering insights into the disease's cause and potential therapeutic targets. The PTPRZ-MET fusion may be exquisitely sensitive to existing MET inhibitors, allowing for personalized oncologic care.
A study found that states with larger African-American populations are more likely to have harsher incarceration practices and conditions of confinement. States with lower rates of poverty also exhibit greater punitiveness in terms of political and symbolic punishment.
A team of scientists has developed a new way to identify genes important for photosynthesis in maize and rice, which can be used for crop improvement. The findings also revealed new pathways and information about how plants fix carbon, helping to prioritize candidate genes for enhancing growth and yield.
A Clemson University-led research team aims to develop materials that can encase nuclear waste for safe storage. The project focuses on crystalline ceramic based on naturally occurring minerals that endure for millions of years.
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) is revisiting its policy on toddler screen time as technology advances. Pediatricians Dr. Dimitri Christakis and Dr. Donald Shifrin will debate the topic at the AAP National Conference & Exhibition, with both agreeing that hard rules are challenging to implement.
A new study found that living close to a major road increases the risk of sudden cardiac death in women by 38% compared to those living far away. Researchers also discovered that proximity to major roads is associated with increased risk of fatal coronary heart disease.
The UCLA Center for Healthier Children, Families and Communities has established a national Health Care Transitions Research Network for individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), focusing on research to improve physical, psychosocial, educational and vocational outcomes for adolescents and young adults with ASD.
A program providing guidance on antibiotic prescribing for children is effective but loses its benefits after auditing and feedback cease. Continued feedback to clinicians is crucial to maintaining proper usage.
NASA's Terra and GOES-East satellites monitored Tropical Storm Gonzalo as it moved through the Lesser Antilles. The storm is expected to strengthen and become a hurricane on Oct 15, affecting several Eastern Caribbean islands with warnings and watches in effect.