NYU researchers have received a MacArthur Foundation grant to develop cutting-edge visualization tools for human rights advocates. The team, led by Enrico Bertini, Oded Nov, and Margaret Satterthwaite, aims to help organizations effectively display complex data on human rights violations, conflict-related deaths, and economic injustices.
Radon gas poses a significant health threat in Canada, with an estimated 3000 deaths from lung cancer in 2014. The WHO limit of 100 Bq/m3 is not met in most Canadian homes, and the lack of action to lower guidelines and implement testing and mitigation measures puts Canadians at risk.
A new study suggests that microgravity can be less damaging to cartilage than previously thought, thanks to the up-regulation of a key gene. Cartilage cells in space showed moderate changes but remained stable, offering hope for new treatments on Earth.
A new study reveals that soil erosion during rainy seasons contributes substantially to global carbon emissions. Organic carbon losses from soils account for approximately one-sixth of annual fossil fuel-induced carbon emissions, with the highest rates found in semi-arid soils.
A comprehensive study by Washington State University scientists David Crowder and John Reganold reveals organic agriculture has significant profit margins compared to conventional farming. Despite lower yields, organic agriculture offers greater environmental benefits and can expand its share in sustainable food production.
A new experiment by MIT engineers provides a more nuanced picture of heat production in microelectronics. The researchers devised an experiment to measure the mean free path distribution of phonons, which reveals that classical diffusion theory underestimates temperature rise at extremely small length scales.
NASA has released a collection of scientific animations exploring hurricanes using satellite data. The animations cover various storms, including Hurricane Katrina and Superstorm Sandy, providing valuable insights into the storms' characteristics.
New research reveals zinc may be the core of stone formation in kidneys, with changes in oxalate levels tracking dietary zinc intake. The findings suggest that understanding zinc's role in preventing kidney stones could lead to new preventive and therapeutic approaches.
A team of researchers discovered that the main clock of flies is controlled by mechanisms similar to those regulating human internal clocks. This study demonstrates how distant organisms can share similar biological clock gears despite displaying different circadian activities.
Researchers found that state policies on organ donation and transplantation had virtually no effect on rates of organ donation and transplantation in the US. Only revenue policies, which allow individuals to contribute to protected state funds for donation promotion activities, were associated with a 5.3% increase in transplants.
A three-year study shows significant improvements in quality and use of medical services relative to comparison practices. Medical home interventions that paid bonuses based on financial savings improved diabetes care, breast cancer screening, hospitalizations, emergency department visits, and primary care visits.
The National Institutes of Health has awarded a $10.5 million grant to the Einstein-Mount Sinai Diabetes Research Center, which aims to expand ongoing diabetes research projects, initiate new studies, and improve service delivery in the New York metropolitan area.
A study found that over 90% of educational materials for kidney disease patients have literacy levels above an average patient's grade level, making it hard for them to comprehend. This can lead to poor management and higher mortality rates among those with low health literacy.
New research at Brigham Young University reveals that helicopter parenting combined with a lack of warmth leads to lower self-worth and higher risk behaviors in young adults. High levels of parental warmth can mitigate some effects, but not eliminate them entirely. Helicopter parents should strive for balance between autonomy and support.
More than a third of patients experience phantom eye symptoms every day, with some feeling pain in the non-existent eye and others perceiving visual patterns or colors. The study provides insights into the prevalence and characteristics of phantom eye syndrome in patients with intraocular melanoma.
The first ever UK guidance suggests office workers should be on their feet for a minimum of 2 hours daily during working hours, breaking up prolonged periods of sitting with sit-stand desks and regular walk-abouts. Employers are also encouraged to promote other healthy behaviors.
Researchers found an invasive micro-alga, Symbiodinium trenchii, improves coral resilience to heat stress but reduces calcification rates and diminishes coral's ability to build reefs. The introduction of this species poses concerns for ecosystem stability and function.
Researchers gave disposable cameras to 40 adolescents with Type 1 diabetes to capture their experiences. The findings reveal key differences in boys and less-affluent young people, which could shape patient care and education. The study also highlights the impact of food on managing the disease.
Researchers have imaged tube-like structures in the Earth's magnetosphere, which are 500 to 700 kilometers above the surface. The structures were detected by mapping variations in radio source positions and exploiting the MWA's rapid snapshot capabilities.
Researchers at the University of California, San Diego developed a novel facial pattern recognition software to assess pediatric pain levels. The software achieved good-to-excellent accuracy in assessing pain conditions and performed equivalent to parents but better than nurses.
Researchers have developed a nanotechnology that promises to make SERS simpler and more affordable, enabling the detection of trace amounts of molecules in various fields. The universal substrate can trap a wide range of wavelengths, reducing the need for different substrates and increasing the efficiency of sensing techniques.
Ibn Sina's seven rules for testing drug potency via analogy and experiment are relevant to modern clinical trials. His seventh rule emphasizes the need for human-based experimentation to avoid differences between animal and human bodies.
A Finnish-Swedish study found that certain psychotropic drugs, including painkillers and benzodiazepines, are associated with an increased risk of committing a homicide. The study analyzed prescription drug use among 959 persons convicted of a homicide between 2003 and 2011.
Collegiate women wearing high heels regularly developed an imbalance of 4 functional ankle muscles, strengthening at first but leading to imbalance and increased risk of injury. Regular ankle strengthening exercises and limiting high heel wear are recommended as preventative measures.
A meta-analysis of existing data found that the Safe Surgery Checklist (SSCL) improves outcomes worldwide, reducing mortality by 21% in high-income countries and 35% in low-middle income countries. The checklist also significantly reduces surgical site infections and postoperative complications.
A study published in Nature Neuroscience found a link between poor sleep and the accumulation of beta-amyloid protein, which is believed to trigger Alzheimer's disease. Researchers discovered that excessive sleep disturbances can lead to impaired long-term memory consolidation.
Clinical trials demonstrate improved survival rates for patients with metastatic melanoma using immune therapies nivolumab and pembrolizumab. These treatments target the 'don't attack' protein PDL1 on tumors, allowing the immune system to prime against tumor tissue.
A recent PNAS study reports that the stress-tolerant alga Symbiodinium trenchii is not native to the Caribbean but was introduced from the Pacific Ocean. This finding raises concerns about the long-term damage it could cause on coral reefs, which cover only a small percentage of the world's oceans.
Researchers will present novel optical systems for detecting exoplanets and measuring the Sun's internal structure. A device called a laser frequency comb will also detect minute changes in light from the sun, enabling the detection of Earth-like planets around distant stars.
A survey of 140 civilian physicians found they needed more training to understand health implications of military service and communicate with veteran patients. The study highlights a need for resources and education to provide high-quality care to veterans, who often face long-term physical and mental health issues.
Scientists have discovered new antifungal compounds that selectively kill pathogens without evoking drug resistance. These novel compounds were designed to act as molecular sponges for ergosterol, found exclusively on fungi surfaces, and exhibit undetectable binding to human cells.
Researchers at Northeastern University have identified dormant persister cells in Borrelia burgdorferi that evade antibiotics. Two potential methods to eradicate the infection were also found, including pulse-dosing an antibiotic to eliminate persisters.
A study by researchers from the University of Seville found that high concentrations of fine particles (PM2.5) in urban areas increase hospital admissions for children with respiratory illnesses such as bronchiolitis, pneumonia, asthma, and bronchitis. Reducing PM2.5 levels to the recommended WHO threshold could lead to a daily saving ...
Recurrent febrile seizures warrant urgent assessment and consideration of antiepileptic drugs. The new report provides expert opinion-based recommendations until further studies consolidate higher evidence-based data.
The study provides a starting point to understand the role of methyl groups in influencing gene expression and development. Researchers detected unusual methylation patterns in various tissues, suggesting potential stem cell populations and new avenues for exploration.
Researchers at MIT developed a graphene coating that improves condenser heat transfer, potentially leading to a 2-3% overall improvement in power plant efficiency and significant reductions in carbon emissions. The coating has been shown to last for two weeks without degrading under typical power plant conditions.
Researchers at WSU Vancouver found that hunter-gatherer cannabis users had significantly lower rates of intestinal worm infection compared to non-users. The study suggests that the Aka people may be unconsciously using cannabis as a form of 'medical marijuana' to ward off parasites.
A University of Toronto study finds that compensation for organ donation can increase public approval by 20-70%, but providing information on benefits has little impact on attitudes towards indoor prostitution. The research highlights the importance of context-specific information in changing moral attitudes towards morally charged mar...
Groundwaters in southern Western Australia have pH levels as low as 2.4 and salinities up to 28%, affecting bedrock and sediments. Human activities like mining and agriculture contributed to this extreme acidity, with deforestation and irrigation using desalinized seawater exacerbating the issue.
A new University of Michigan and VA study suggests that hospital stays can increase the risk of sepsis in older adults by disrupting their gut microbiome. The research found that older adults are three times more likely to develop sepsis within 90 days of hospitalization, especially after care that alters the balance of microbes.
The PULSE certification process recognizes eight US colleges for implementing transformative practices in undergraduate biology education. The pilot project assesses progress towards the Vision and Change report's recommendations, providing a framework for evaluating teaching quality and student learning outcomes.
A new study by the University of Warwick has found no evidence of discrimination against fathers in English and Welsh family courts. The research, funded by the Nuffield Foundation, reviewed over 200 case files from 2011 and concluded that contact applications by fathers were successful, with a similar success rate to mothers.
Researchers discovered that the protein NFAT plays a central role in the host's inflammatory response to strep infections. This finding suggests that targeting NFAT activity could be useful in treating severe streptococcal infections and limiting antibiotic use.
A new study at the University of Maryland found that online hookup sites like Craigslist increase HIV infection rates in Florida, with African Americans accounting for 63% of new cases. The study also found that wealthier individuals and women were more susceptible to HIV transmission through online platforms.
A new study found that US states with stronger alcohol policies have lower rates of youth overall drinking and binge drinking. The study suggests that these policies are effective in reducing adult binge drinking, which has a significant impact on youth drinking rates.
Researchers at VCU Massey Cancer Center have found a promising combination of an experimental drug and common antibiotic Minocycline to target pancreatic cancer cells. The synergistic effect of the two drugs eliminated Stat3 expression, a key protein regulating tumor growth.
A study by Christin L. Munsch found that economic dependency increases the likelihood of cheating for both men and women, with men more likely to cheat when not primary breadwinners. Women who are primary breadwinners are less likely to cheat as they increase their income share.
A new study predicts that British military amputees will require medical care and rehabilitation for more than 25 years, with estimated costs of up to £288 million over 40 years. The study suggests that long-term financial commitment is necessary to provide sustained support and resources.
A study from Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health found that men with prostate cancer who followed a Western diet had a significantly higher risk of death, including prostate cancer-related mortality and overall mortality. In contrast, those on a 'prudent' diet had a lower risk of death from all causes.
Researchers found that alternative developmental educational pathways can significantly improve academic outcomes for community college students. Three pathways, including summer immersion, English language immersion, and CUNY Start, were evaluated and showed positive effects on student success.
Climate change is expected to increase pesticide toxicity in fish, as warmer temperatures become toxic at the upper limit of species' temperature tolerance. The study reveals that pesticides and industrial contaminants become toxic when temperatures reach 50C, making fish more vulnerable to environmental changes.
A two-year clinical trial will study whether human growth hormone can safely improve recovery and prevent long-term osteoarthritis after an ACL tear. The trial aims to help professional athletes recover more easily and maintain their quality of life.
The FDA has published a paper highlighting its scientific approaches and regulatory processes for approving promising hepatitis C drugs. The agency emphasizes flexibility in considering innovative trial designs without compromising efficacy standards.
Mayo Clinic researchers identified 69 never events among 1.5 million invasive procedures, with 628 human factors contributing to the errors. Four to nine factors contributed to each event, including environmental, organizational, job and individual characteristics.
A study reveals differences in musculoskeletal disorders between males and females, including higher ACL injury rates and osteoarthritis prevalence among women. This knowledge is crucial for healthcare professionals to provide better care and recognize potential risks.
A new study found an association between pyrethroid pesticide exposure and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children and young teens, especially in terms of hyperactivity and impulsivity. Boys were three times more likely to have ADHD than girls with detectable urinary biomarkers.
A Danish study suggests that type 2 diabetes is associated with a reduced risk for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). The study found that older age at diagnosis for either disease was associated with lower risk. The findings focus attention on the role of energy metabolism in ALS pathogenesis.
A team of scientists has tracked the development of Galapagos volcanoes over 8-16 million years ago, discovering highly explosive eruptions that deposited ash layers 1200km away. The study sheds new light on Earth's volcanic history and climate evolution.
Researchers at Griffith University have created a groundbreaking combination vaccine that combines the protein SpyCEP with J8-DT to combat Streptococcus A infections. The vaccine shows promise in preventing deadly complications of the infection, including rheumatic heart disease.
Researchers analyzed over 42,000 Ebola-related tweets to show how Twitter was used to share breaking health news in West Africa. The study found that Twitter played a crucial role in disseminating information about the outbreak, particularly in the days leading up to official announcements.