Why van Gogh's Sunflowers are wilting
Researchers analyzed a Van Gogh painting using X-rays to determine the type of chrome yellow used. They found that lighter shades were more susceptible to degradation and darkened over time.
Science News Archive 2015
Browse by Month - 2015
Page 81 of 402
'Green' buildings bring in more green
A recent study found that green commercial buildings have higher average rents (3.7%) and occupancy rates (18.7% in Canada, 9.5% in the US) compared to non-green buildings. Tenant satisfaction scores also increased by 7% in Canada.
How stereotypes hurt
A new study led by USC researcher Cleopatra Abdou found that people who encountered negative stereotypes in healthcare settings reported adverse effects, including hypertension, depression, and poor self-rated health. The researchers highlight the need for inclusive policies to reduce healthcare stereotype threat and promote health dis...
New study explores gender bias in academic hiring
A recent study by Cornell researchers Stephen J. Ceci and Wendy M. Williams found that women's hiring advantage in academia is limited when competing against highly qualified male candidates, with fewer than 5% opting for the less accomplished candidate.
Surprising source for ancient life biomarker found
Stanford scientists discover tetrahymanol, a fatty molecule used as an indicator for life on early Earth, in bacterial membranes. The finding suggests many bacteria might produce the lipid, challenging conventional wisdom.
Inherent mindfulness linked to lower obesity risk, belly fat
A study of nearly 400 people found that those with higher dispositional mindfulness had a lower risk of obesity and less abdominal fat. The researchers suggest that increased awareness of thoughts and feelings may help individuals overcome cravings for unhealthy foods and exercise habits.
New CEO's gender may affect company performance
The study, which analyzed data from 3,320 CEO successions in China's Shanghai and Shenzhen stock exchanges, found that male-to-female succession tends to have lower postsuccession performance than same-gender succession. Companies with female CEOs also experienced higher early departure rates.
Satellite with UNH components sheds new light on solar system boundary
A team of scientists from the University of New Hampshire led the study, using IBEX to create high-fidelity maps of the solar system boundary. The research reveals a higher temperature than previously reported for the interstellar wind.
'Big Data' used to identify new cancer driver genes
Scientists at Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute used publicly available cancer databases to identify novel cancer driver genes associated with cancer progression. The study found 71 previously unrecognized interfaces in proteins that may serve as new predictive markers or drug targets.
Study provides more precise estimates of cancer risks associated with low level radiation
An international team of researchers analyzed data from 308,297 nuclear industry workers and found a linear increase in cancer mortality with increasing radiation exposure. The study strengthens the scientific basis for current radiation protection standards.
MRI shows heart ages differently in women than in men
A new MRI study found that the main pumping chamber of the heart ages differently in men and women, with men's hearts becoming heavier and holding less blood. The study suggests that optimum treatment for heart failure may not be the same for women and men, highlighting the importance of personalized medicine.
Family risk of breast cancer does not affect psychosocial adjustment among pre-teen girls
A study of over 869 pre-teen girls found that those from families with a history of breast cancer or genetic mutations did not show increased signs of anxiety and depression. However, they did express more worry about breast cancer, suggesting a potential benefit of early education about risk.
A study of 377,000 sheds light on the role played by the genome in eczema
Researchers identified 10 new genetic variations associated with eczema, shedding light on the immune system's regulation. The study, involving 377,000 subjects, also found evidence of genetic overlap with inflammatory bowel disease.
Breakthrough to the development of energy-saving devices for the next generation
Researchers at Osaka University developed a new method for evaluating the quality of wide-gap semiconductors using terahertz waves. The laser terahertz emission microscope (LTEM) revealed correlations between defect density and THz wave emission, showing promise for next-generation energy-saving devices
Tdap vaccination during pregnancy following other recent tetanus-containing vaccine
A study examining the safety of Tdap vaccination in pregnant women found no significant differences in acute adverse events or adverse birth outcomes between those vaccinated recently and those not. The researchers' findings provide reassurance for patients and clinicians regarding the use of Tdap vaccine during pregnancy.
HIV cure research: NIH scientists create 2-headed protein to deplete HIV reservoir
Researchers at NIH have developed a protein that awakens resting immune cells infected with HIV, facilitating their destruction. The protein, VRC07-αCD3, has shown promise in laboratory studies and animal trials, offering new hope for an HIV cure.
Mother-of-pearl's genesis identified in mineral's transformation
Researchers at the University of Wisconsin-Madison have discovered the earliest stages of nacre formation in a mollusk shell. The team used spectro-microscopy to observe the transformation of amorphous calcium carbonate into crystalline aragonite, revealing new insights into biomineral creation.
Researchers develop drug delivery technique to bypass blood-brain barrier
Researchers developed a method to deliver drugs across the blood-brain barrier using nasal mucosal grafting, showing neuroprotection in Parkinson's mouse models. The technique has potential to treat various brain disorders, including neurodegenerative diseases and psychiatric conditions.
Exciting breakthrough in 2-D lasers
Researchers from Berkeley Lab demonstrate bright excitonic lasing at visible light wavelengths using a monolayer of tungsten disulfide in a microdisk resonator. The technology has potential for high-performance optical communication and computing applications, as well as valleytronic applications.
Case report finds acute hypersensitivity pneumonitis in patient using e-cigarettes
A case report highlights the potential health risk of e-cigarette use, particularly in relation to the flavoring agent diacetyl. The patient, a 60-year-old cigar smoker, developed symptoms after using strongly-flavored e-cigarettes, and was diagnosed with acute hypersensitivity pneumonitis.
Ten new genetic risk loci for eczema discovered
Researchers have identified ten new genetic risk loci for eczema, a chronic inflammatory skin disorder. The study found strong correlations with known risk factors for asthma, allergies, and other autoimmune diseases.
Preserving the best qualities of 'Honeycrisp' apples
Research reveals that 'Honeycrisp' apple size and soluble solids content significantly impact consumers' willingness to pay. Growers can increase prices by optimizing fruit size, while maintaining acidity levels to command higher prices.
Sunscreen is proven toxic to coral reefs
A Tel Aviv University study finds that oxybenzone, a common chemical in sunscreen lotions, is highly toxic to juvenile corals, causing coral bleaching, DNA damage, and death. Concentrations as low as 62 parts per trillion pose an ecological threat.
Triggered earthquakes give insight into changes below Earth's surface
Researchers found that triggered earthquakes change the elastic properties of the Earth's crust in regions up to 6,000 kilometers away. This dynamic and interconnected system can create a cascading sequence of events thousands of kilometers away.
Superbug infection greatest increase in children ages 1-5
A nationwide study found a significant increase in CRE infections among US children aged 1-5, with rates rising from 0% to 4.5% between 1999 and 2012. The greatest increase was seen in intensive care units, where isolates of CRE in the bloodstream increased from zero to 3.2% during the study period.
Menopausal status a better indicator than age for mammography frequency
A new study suggests that postmenopausal women may be safely screened every two years, while premenopausal women over 40 may benefit from annual mammograms to increase early detection. The research also highlights the importance of considering menopausal status rather than age when determining screening intervals.
From good to bad with a copper switch
A new SISSA study uncovers a critical cofactor in prion protein transformation from 'good' to 'bad', revealing the role of copper in triggering the process. The study suggests a new potential target for treating prion diseases, including Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease and mad cow disease.
A 'hot' new development for ultracold magnetic sensors
Researchers from Loughborough and Nottingham Universities developed a multi-SQUID device that can operate at 77 K, outperforming standard 4.2 K SQUID magnetometers. The new design uses flux focusers to achieve high temperature performance with low noise levels.
Cause of viral infection of the brain mapped out
A study published in the Journal of Experimental Medicine has identified a genetic defect in the immune system that can lead to fatal brain inflammation in some people infected with the herpes virus. The discovery may also shed light on other types of viral infections, such as meningitis and influenza.
NASA sees Hurricane Olaf move into central Pacific Ocean
Hurricane Olaf strengthened to a Category four hurricane on October 20 with maximum sustained winds near 150 mph. The storm is expected to remain major for the next couple of days before curving northeast and away from Hawaii by Friday, October 23.
Botox may prevent irregular heartbeat after bypass surgery
Researchers found that Botox injections significantly reduced the risk of developing atrial fibrillation (AF) after bypass surgery. In contrast, saline injections showed no such benefit. The study's results could lead to Botox being used as a preventive measure for AF in patients undergoing heart bypass or valve repair.
Alcohol ads linked to teen alcohol brand choices
Youth aged 13-20 are more than five times more likely to consume brands that advertise on TV, and 36% more likely to drink brands that advertise in magazines. Researchers used exposure estimates from media research firms to link brand-specific advertising with consumption among underage drinkers.
Uncovered: The European roller's route between Africa and Europe
Scientists uncover European roller's migratory routes, resting areas and wintering grounds, revealing key areas of conservation importance. The study highlights the species' fragile state of conservation and the impact of human activities on its migration patterns.
A new way to starve lung cancer?
Researchers discovered that lung cancer cells switch to using amino acid glutamine when glucose is scarce, allowing them to continue growing under starvation conditions. Blocking this enzyme PEPCK could slow tumor growth in mice, suggesting a promising new approach to treating non-small cell lung cancer.
Histone deacetylase 6 inhibition enhances oncolytic viral therapy
New study reveals that histone deacetylase 6 inhibition improves the ability of oncolytic herpes simplex virus type 1 to kill glioma cells. HDAC inhibitors increase viral trafficking to the nucleus, leading to increased replication and tumor cell death.
New Jersey scientists show brain connectivity changes with working memory after TBI
Researchers found hyperconnectivity between fronto-parietal regions and less organized flow of information in individuals with chronic moderate to severe TBI compared to healthy controls. The study suggests a causal relationship between working memory tasks and brain injury.
Stimulating specific brain area could help defrost arms frozen by stroke
A study published at Neuroscience 2015 found that magnetically stimulating a specific part of the brain can affect arm movements in patients with severely disabling post-stroke arm impairment. The research suggests that repeated stimulation of the unaffected side of the brain may help teach it to control the impaired arm.
Discrepancies are common between reported medical outcomes and trial registry data
A recent study published in Neurology found that only a quarter of headache clinical trials were registered in an approved clinical trial registry, despite a 2005 decision by major medical journals to prioritize trial registration. The study suggests significant selective reporting and potential issues with the peer review process.
New 'geospeedometer' confirms super-eruptions have short fuses
Researchers developed a new 'geospeedometer' to measure the time between magma formation and eruption, finding that super-eruptions can occur within 500 years. The technique is based on analyzing quartz crystals found in magma bodies and provides an independent estimate of the duration of magmatic conditions.
Effect of duration of storage of red blood cells transfused for cardiac surgery
A study of patients who underwent cardiac surgery in Sweden found no link between transfused red blood cell storage duration and mortality rates, serious complications, or adverse outcomes. Blood services follow national guidelines, allocating the oldest available unit first.
Learning from ants how to build transportation networks
Ants build complex transportation networks by minimizing costs while maintaining efficiency and robustness. Researchers at Uppsala University applied this principle to human-made systems, finding that connecting new suburbs to the closest city area can ensure relatively cheap but efficient power networks. By adjusting the frequency of ...
Rutgers Genetics Research Center awarded $6 million federal grant
Rutgers Genetics Research Center has been awarded a five-year grant to provide comprehensive stem-cell related services, including iPSC derivation and quality control. The new grant will enhance access to high-quality stem cells for researchers investigating Parkinson's, ALS, and Huntington's diseases.
The Lancet: Study reveals poor levels of use, availability and affordability of vital heart medicines
A new study published in The Lancet reveals that the use of vital life-saving generic medicines for prevention in people with existing heart disease is poor worldwide. The study found that these medicines are not widely available and unaffordable in low-income countries, affecting their use even in rich nations.
Study finds more tunnels in ant nests means more food for colony
A UC San Diego study found that more connected chambers in ant nests increase social interactions, allowing ants to quickly communicate good food sources. The spatial organization of a nest has a greater impact on collective behavior than the number of workers.
Does living in the United States promote teenage risk taking?
A study by Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health found that US teens exhibit higher sensation-seeking behavior compared to their peers in Puerto Rico, with rates increasing earlier and being influenced by family environment and parenting practices.
Professor Satinder Brar, key guest speaker at Solid Waste Management and Green Economy
Chitosan and chitin have been proven as effective, eco-friendly, and cost-effective alternatives to bentonite and STABIFIX in clarifying beer. They reduce turbidity by up to 160 times, decreasing flocculation time and production costs.
First synthetic model of a bacterial outer membrane will support antibiotic development
Researchers at Newcastle University have created a synthetic model of the bacterial outer membrane, providing unprecedented access to its structure and dynamics. The model allows for the testing of antibiotic molecules and has the potential to overcome resistance in Gram-negative bacteria, such as E. coli.
NASA sees Typhoon Champi near Iwo To, Japan
Typhoon Champi's maximum sustained winds dropped to 80 knots from 90 knots as it weakened, with rough seas and wave heights reaching 9.1 meters.
Umbrella-shaped diamond nanostructures make efficient photon collectors
Researchers discovered that umbrella-shaped diamond nanostructures with metal mirrors can collect photons three to five times more efficiently than bulk diamond. This breakthrough could lead to applications in magnetic sensors and quantum computing.
Male and female hearts don't grow old the same way
A study of nearly 3,000 adults found significant differences in how male and female hearts change over time. The research suggests that men's and women's hearts may develop age-related heart failure for different reasons, highlighting the need for gender-tailored treatments.
Cancer-causing parasite may accelerate wound healing
A cancer-causing parasitic worm has been discovered to drive wound healing and blood vessel growth, which could lead to accelerated recovery from chronic wounds such as diabetic ulcers. The growth factor secreted by the parasite also increases the risk of developing liver cancer over time.
Trained medical interpreters can reduce errors in care for patients with limited English proficiency
A study published in Medical Care found that trained medical interpreters can cut the error rate in half for patients with limited English proficiency, whether in person or via video conference. The results suggest that professional interpretation services are crucial for improving quality of care for LEP patients.
Super-slick material makes steel better, stronger, cleaner
Researchers at Harvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences have developed a way to make steel stronger, safer and more durable by creating a surface coating made from rough nanoporous tungsten oxide. The new material is capable of repelling any kind of liquid even after sustaining intense structural abuse.
Case Western Reserve receives $2 million for smoking cessation research
The study aims to investigate a combination approach to help patients stop smoking, particularly those who are socially and economically disadvantaged. A randomized trial will be conducted in eight clinics serving over 25,000 patients to evaluate the effectiveness of pairing Teachable Moment Communication Process with Ask-Advise-Connec...
With organic rice in demand, scientists to help farmers improve production
The US Department of Agriculture has funded a three-year study to make organic rice production more economically viable for farmers. The research aims to address key challenges such as weed control, nitrogen supply, and stand establishment, which are major issues affecting organic rice farming.
Mosquitofish populations with more females have greater ecological impact
Researchers found dramatic differences in pond ecosystems depending on the ratio of males to females in mosquitofish populations. Female-dominated ponds exhibited fewer zooplankton and a greater abundance of algae.
Muscle relaxant or opioid combined with NSAID does not improve low back pain
A study published in JAMA found that combining a muscle relaxant or opioid with an NSAID did not provide better pain relief for patients with acute low back pain. Despite this, nearly two-thirds of patients demonstrated clinically significant improvement in LBP and function within one week.
Most earth-like worlds have yet to be born, according to theoretical study
A new theoretical study suggests that only eight percent of potentially habitable planets will ever form in the universe, while the bulk of those planets - 92 percent - have yet to be born. This conclusion is based on an assessment of data collected by NASA's Hubble Space Telescope and the Kepler space observatory.
Watching the inflammation process in real time
Researchers at Jena University developed a cellular system to study inflammation processes in real time, providing a method for targeting new therapeutic approaches. The system allowed them to clarify the exact regulatory mechanism of 5-LO and FLAP interaction, enabling tests for active compounds.
Early ID of physiological deterioration and appropriate care improves sepsis outcomes
Researchers found significant improvements in staff awareness and patient outcomes after implementing rapid response system training, with a 213% increase in call rates and a 100% reduction in code blue events. The top causes of RRS initiation were tachycardia, hypotension, and staff concern.