A new study found that bilingual individuals have more gray matter in the brain's executive control region, which is involved in tasks such as attention, inhibition, and short-term memory. This 'bilingual advantage' was observed in Spanish-English bilinguals but not in ASL-English bilinguals.
A study by the University of Birmingham found that Chinese children cared for mainly by their grandparents are more than twice as likely to be overweight or obese. Grandparents often indulge and protect their grandkids, leading to unhealthy eating habits and a lack of physical activity.
A University of Florida study found that encountering rude behavior at work makes people more likely to perceive rudeness in later interactions, leading to a vicious cycle. The study's findings provide evidence that everyday impoliteness spreads in the workplace, having a powerful negative effect on performance.
Researchers found that subtle visual distractions caused significant deviations from the intended path, contrary to intuition. The study's findings suggest a new phenomenon where the brain employs a suppression mechanism to tune out bigger distractions, but struggles with less apparent ones.
Genome researchers should disclose misattributed parentage to parents to respect their autonomy and sense of self. The issue also explores punishing health care providers for treating terrorists, highlighting the need for moral and legal clarity in such situations.
A new family of chemical structures, known as zeolites, have been created by an international team of researchers to separate out carbon dioxide more effectively from fuel gases. These complex structures show rapid and selective uptake of CO2, a key step in carbon capture and storage strategies.
Researchers developed an algorithm inspired by brain pruning, which eliminates unneeded connections in early childhood. The neuroscience-based approach created more efficient and robust networks than traditional engineering methods.
Researchers at Oregon State University have developed a system to increase bioavailability of resveratrol and quercetin, potentially allowing extensive use of Adriamycin while reducing cardiac toxicity. The co-administration of these polyphenols enhances the efficacy of cancer drugs by sensitizing cancer cells.
Researchers found that high blood pressure at a younger age can affect cognitive performance many years later. Participants with high blood pressure scored more poorly on tests of attention and executive function, highlighting the importance of managing factors that impact brain aging.
Researchers will examine how emotional processing deficits in MS are associated with social functioning across three levels. People with MS face difficulties recognizing universal emotions, leading to relationship issues and social isolation.
Researchers at Rockefeller University discovered that high affinity B cells divide faster during the antibody selection process, giving them an advantage. This discovery builds on earlier work and may have important implications for improving vaccines and understanding lymphomas.
Mammals underwent rapid 'burst' of evolutionary change in the mid-Jurassic, producing characteristic body shapes that remained recognisable for tens of millions of years. This period of radical change produced up to 8 significant changes per million years, compared to 1-2 at the end of the Jurassic.
A new ingredient, SODA-LO Salt Microspheres, has been shown to reduce sodium intake in the US population by 230-300 milligrams per day, a significant decrease of 7-9%. This reduction can lead to substantial healthcare cost savings, estimated at $3.0 to $5.3 billion annually.
A study of approximately 500 older adults found that two-thirds who screened positive for cognitive impairment refused diagnostic assessment. Living alone was a significant factor, as well as negative preconceptions about dementia stigma.
Researchers created miniature brains from patient skin cells to study autism, finding altered gene expression networks and an imbalance in neuron type. Suppressing a key gene corrected this bias, suggesting possible clinical interventions.
A Virginia Tech scientist has developed a mathematical model that demonstrates bacteria can control the behavior of robots, opening up new possibilities in ecology, biology, and robotics. The model uses engineered gene circuits in E. coli to create a bacteria-robot system that exhibits unique decision-making behavior.
Researchers studied zebrafish to understand how support cells contribute to hair cell regeneration after damage or death. Approximately half of the dividing support cells differentiated into hair cells, while the rest self-renewed, maintaining a reserve force for regenerative action.
Scientists have discovered that light can be stored and trap particles of light called phonon polaritons behave in unique ways. The light's movement isn't random but follows fixed angles with respect to the atomic structure, leading to interesting resonances.
A new study has uncovered a key factor in the variability of genetic disease severity, enabling prediction and personalized treatment approaches. By analyzing genetic background, researchers can now estimate disease severity, providing hope for improved management and therapy development.
Researchers discovered that phytohormones regulate microbial abundance, influencing the composition of root microbiomes. The study found that plants can select and benefit from specific strains of microbes, but also face pathogens that take nutrients and damage plants.
Researchers found that activating Nurr1, a class of proteins in the brain, protects dopamine neurons and improves motor control. The study suggests that existing anti-malaria drugs could be repurposed to treat Parkinson's disease.
Researchers at VIB have identified a promising target pathway for treating fragile X syndrome and autism. By targeting the APP-ADAM10 pathway, scientists may be able to ameliorate deficits associated with these conditions. The study's findings open new avenues for developing non-toxic therapeutic agents.
NASA's RapidScat instrument detected tropical storm-force winds in Tropical Storm Enrique on July 16, contradicting a forecast that the system would weaken. The storm is moving west-northwest at 8 mph and may turn west by Friday.
Researchers from the University of Surrey have made a breakthrough discovery that the bacteria causing Buruli ulcer disease triggers a blood clot, similar to deep vein thrombosis. This finding suggests that anticoagulant medicines may be effective in treating the disease, leading to faster healing and fewer side effects.
Researchers at UVA Health System have identified a new potential cause of the recent child paralysis outbreak, Enterovirus C105. While it is unclear if this virus is responsible for the outbreak, experts are cautioning against over-interpretation and emphasizing the need for further analysis.
Researchers have discovered that iron regulatory proteins play a crucial role in fighting off infection by controlling iron levels. The study found that mice lacking these proteins died when infected with the Salmonella bacteria, highlighting their importance in immune defense.
A recent study published in Molecular Aspects of Medicine has identified genetic markers that link an increased risk for developing both type 2 diabetes and Alzheimer's disease. The research, led by Dr. Giulio Maria Pasinetti, found specific genetic variations associated with higher susceptibility to both conditions.
A new study finds polar bears experience limited energy savings in summer due to the ongoing loss of sea ice. Despite initial hopes that they could compensate for food deprivation through modified activity and metabolic rates, researchers found no evidence of such adaptations.
A massive study of 377,000 high school students found that first-borns have a one-IQ-point advantage over later-borns but the differences are statistically insignificant. First-borns tend to be more extroverted and conscientious, while later-borns have less anxiety, but these effects are infinitesimally small.
Researchers have identified two signaling molecules required for proper cochlea development. The study contributes to understanding of inner ear development and its potential goal of regenerating sensory hair cells, a key step toward reversing hearing loss in mammals.
Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center found that introducing an enzyme called ceramidase in diabetic mice rapidly improved insulin sensitivity. The study suggests a new means to potentially treat Type 2 diabetes and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease by lowering ceramide levels, which interfere with insulin signaling.
A study published in the American Journal of Public Health found that obese individuals have a low chance of recovering normal body weight, with only 1 in 210 men and 1 in 124 women achieving this goal. The research highlights the need for obesity prevention strategies to address the rising obesity epidemic.
Graphene transistors and photodetectors will benefit from this simpler thermodynamic approach, allowing for improved performance. Researchers have discovered that the energy of ultrafast electrical currents is efficiently converted into electron heat, enabling faster operation speeds.
The Chicago Ebola Resource Network (CERN) shares expertise, resources, and risk to anticipate and respond to Black Swan events. Collaborative efforts among academic medical centers and public health leaders resulted in efficient programs with reduced disruption to routine patient care.
Researchers Neil Ganem and Anurag Singh at Boston University School of Medicine are developing new strategies to inhibit the growth of chromosomally unstable cancer cells expressing oncogenic BRAF. They have identified two major types of NRAS networks in melanoma, which may be targeted with selective anti-cancer agents.
Senator Ben Cardin receives the 2015 ESA Regional Policy Award for his decades-long commitment to environmental protection and ecosystem health. The award recognizes his efforts to promote Chesapeake Bay restoration, address climate change, and ensure science is at the table in federal policymaking.
Researchers discovered that screams possess special acoustic properties, including roughness, which is a specific type of vocal expression used in stressful situations. Screams are modulated at a faster rate than normal speech, making them more attention-grabbing.
New research reveals polar bears' metabolic rates remain high during summer ice melt, limiting their ability to conserve energy. The study suggests that as sea ice loss increases, polar bears are unable to adapt by entering a low-energy state, leaving them vulnerable to food shortages and reduced survival rates.
The newly discovered Rhombophryne longicrus is an unusually long-legged new species of frog from Madagascar that challenges the traditional burrowing behavior of its relatives. Genetic analyses reveal close relationships to another diamond frog species, highlighting concerns over extinction due to habitat destruction.
Researchers predict a new Little Ice Age may begin by 2030, with reduced solar activity leading to significant cooling of the Earth's atmosphere. This decrease in solar irradiance could result in severe winters and cold summers, similar to those experienced during the Maunder minimum in the 17th century.
A UCLA study found that the Sound Body Sound Mind curriculum tripled the percentage of students who passed California's standardized physical fitness test in under-resourced schools. The program increased students' confidence levels, enjoyment of physical activity, and knowledge about fitness.
A study published in the Financial Review shows that frequent portfolio rebalancing can significantly reduce trading costs, leading to higher risk-adjusted returns. Investors can apply these strategies to existing portfolios with ease, reducing costs by up to 90% and improving investment outcomes.
By analyzing blood flow patterns, researchers have identified 13 main brain networks that work together and can be used to diagnose neurological disorders like Alzheimer's. The study provides new insights into how the brain organizes itself and sets the stage for early diagnosis and treatment.
Researchers have developed a new catalyst for selective oxidation of methanol to dimethoxymethane, achieving high conversions and selectivities under mild conditions. The optimized catalyst, V2O5/TiO2-Al2O3, exhibits superior performance compared to traditional methods.
Scientists at Princeton University have discovered Weyl fermions, a massless particle theorized 85 years ago. The particle could enable nearly free and efficient flow of electricity in electronics, leading to greater power for computers.
A research team from the University of Lomé in Togo identified 17 species of the Pteridaceae fern family, including one first recorded in the country. The study provides a detailed identification key for all species, including new records and synonyms.
Researchers found that mosquitoes primarily use smell to detect CO2 plumes from 10-50 meters away, then switch to visual cues as they get closer. Visual and thermal sensory information are combined to create a spatial map of the host's location, allowing mosquitoes to pinpoint their target.
A clinical trial found that exercising 300 minutes per week reduced total body fat and abdominal fat in postmenopausal women, with greater effects seen in obese women. The study supports the recommendation for postmenopausal women to exercise at least 300 minutes/week for cancer prevention.
Hurricane Dolores is a category 3 hurricane with maximum sustained winds near 115mph, affecting Mexico's Revillagigedo Islands and generating rough surf. The storm is forecast to weaken gradually over the next 24 hours before moving into colder waters.
A study published in Food Quality and Preference found that women tend to buy fragrances for men, suggesting a desire to influence their partner's scent preferences. In contrast, women are less likely to share or gift fragrances with other women, citing concerns about negative connotations.
Tradable Energy Quotas (TEQs) are a policy framework that addresses the bind between climate science and political reality. By implementing a quantity-based energy quota system, TEQs offers an equitable and expeditious way to bridge the gulf between climate ambition and public support.
Lithium chloride has been shown to prevent cartilage degradation and loss of mechanical integrity associated with osteoarthritis. This breakthrough finding offers a novel potential treatment option for the devastating condition affecting over a third of people over 45 in the UK.
Researchers discovered that a plant hormone, salicylic acid, acts as a 'bacterial bouncer' below ground, sculpting the microbiome surrounding a plant's roots. This finding suggests that salicylic acid is required to assemble a normal, commensal root microbiome.
A worldwide study found a consistent biological rule governing the relationship between plant biomass and species diversity in grassland ecosystems. Plant species diversity is generally greatest at intermediate levels of plant biomass. The research has implications for managing and conserving grassland biodiversity globally.
Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health notes that more efficient research methods are needed to continue scientific progress. Dr. Muennig's project demonstrates the potential for automation in public health research, reducing costs by over 75%.
Researchers found that existing malaria infections in mosquitoes facilitate replication of secondary infections, leading to higher parasite loads. This could disproportionately contribute to malaria transmission, especially if control measures focus on reducing mosquito feedings.
A new study published in Social Science & Medicine proposes taxing sugary drinks based on their calorie content to encourage healthier choices. This approach could lead to a reduction in obesity rates and an increase in the consumption of low-calorie alternatives.
RapidScat data showed the strongest winds in Tropical Storm Halola were located in its northeastern quadrant, reaching speeds of up to 62mph. The storm is expected to strengthen into a typhoon by July 17 and pass northeast of Iwo To island, Japan, by July 21.
Whipple, a doctoral student at the University of Minnesota School of Nursing, was awarded the NHCGNE Patricia G. Archbold Scholar Award to support her research and career development. The award aims to increase the cadre of academic geriatric nurses and build leadership capacity in the field.
Researchers at Berkeley Lab developed a new technique called SINGLE that provides 3D images of individual platinum nanoparticles in solution. This allows for the study of their structures and properties, which is crucial for applications in renewable energy, catalysis, and more.