A Texas A&M study found that students with standing desks show greater on-task engagement and academic behavioral engagement, equating to an extra seven minutes of engaged instruction time. Standing desks were also shown to burn more calories than traditional desks, with obese children burning 25% more calories.
Scientists at Ames Laboratory have created a new magnetic alloy using cerium instead of dysprosium, which is scarce and expensive. The alloy demonstrates comparable properties to traditional magnets and could be used in high-performance applications such as wind turbines and automobile engines.
Researchers identified a protein called ATM that regulates DNA repair during sperm production, preventing genetic errors that can cause infertility. The discovery sheds light on the mechanisms controlling gamete formation and has implications for understanding human fertility.
Scientists found that people's preconceptions affect the information transmitted, influencing those receiving it. This can lead to an increasingly alarmist perception of potential risks as original messages are reinforced.
A study by University of Vermont professor Lori Erbrederis Meyer found that inclusive classrooms without disability awareness curricula do not increase friendships for students with disabilities. However, having a best friend helps children with high rates of problem behaviors and low social skills gain peer acceptance.
Researchers at WashU Medicine have identified a potential target for treatments for fragile X carriers, who can experience social deficits and milder versions of cognitive and behavioral disorders. A potential way to boost levels of the key brain protein could lead to symptom easing for carriers.
A study of combined intracavitary and interstitial brachytherapy for cervical cancer treatment found that the technique delivers higher radiation doses to tumors without increasing treatment-related problems. The method successfully targets the tumor while avoiding other organs, leading to a better chance of cure.
A team of researchers from GFZ explains possible barriers for the ascent of mantle plumes and resolves major conflicts surrounding present model predictions. They found that low-buoyancy thermochemical plumes can develop, preventing massive volcanism and environmental catastrophes.
Scientists have created a more efficient way to generate broadband terahertz radiation by using a microplasma in air, which can be used for applications such as monitoring explosives or drugs. The approach uses lower power lasers and can provide higher spectral resolution, enabling clearer identification of materials.
The study demonstrates a new therapeutic option for chronic HCV infection, achieving high sustained virologic response rates. The combination therapy resulted in 90% sustained viral response (SVR12) rates across various genotypes of the virus.
Neurons, not astrocytes, consume glucose and produce lactate in the brain, according to a groundbreaking study published in Nature Communications. This discovery has significant implications for understanding neurological disorders, such as Alzheimer's and stroke.
A new hybrid plant used in anti-malarial drug production, developed by scientists at the University of York's Centre for Novel Agricultural Products (CNAP), has been registered as a new variety in China. The plant is believed to be the first instance of Chinese registration for an Artemisia annua variety bred outside China.
Digital breast tomosynthesis (DBT) increases cancer detection rates among women with dense breasts, with a significant improvement seen in those with dense breasts called back for mass and asymmetry. The study found a striking increase in detection among these groups, offering new insights into DBT's effectiveness.
A 12-week oral regimen of once-daily single tablet grazoprevir/elbasvir is effective and well-tolerated in treatment-naive patients infected with chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) genotypes 1, 4 or 6. Preliminary results show that 299 out of 316 patients achieved a sustained virologic response at 12 weeks.
Proviso Partners for Health (PP4H) has been awarded a $4.8 million grant from the Institute of Healthcare Improvement to support its efforts in improving community health. The grant will help PP4H develop ways to share and spread effective improvement approaches across the country.
A team of Belgian philosophers and plant biotechnologists explores the widespread anti-GMO sentiment, attributing it to cognitive processes and emotional representations. They argue that the public should form opinions on GMOs on a case-by-case basis, rather than focusing on the technology itself.
The study demonstrated that ledipasvir-sofosbuvir achieves high sustained virologic response rates in patients with chronic genotype 4 and 5 HCV infection. The treatment was found to be effective in both treatment-naive and treatment-experienced patients, with similar SVR12 rates across all patient types.
A team of biologists at Vanderbilt University has identified a specific signaling protein called Asef2 as crucial for forming dendritic spines, the tiny filaments that connect neurons to enable memory formation. This discovery could lead to new treatments for autism and Alzheimer's diseases.
A study found that a text messaging service connecting teens to sexual health educators is effective in reaching those most at risk, such as lower socioeconomic teens and those in relationships. The service helps prevent negative outcomes like sexually transmitted disease and unwanted pregnancy.
A team at Northwestern University has developed a faster and higher quality 3D camera that can be used in more environments and produces better images. The camera uses single-point scanning and is modeled after the human eye, making it much faster and higher quality than existing devices.
A new study by Duke University finds that orphaned boys experience similar rates of physical and sexual abuse as girls in low- and middle-income countries. The research suggests investing in support services for both genders to prevent long-term trauma and abuse, ultimately benefiting girls' safety.
A new study suggests that higher education's focus on individual access for underrepresented populations does not address systemic inequalities and marginalizing attitudes in STEM fields. Colleges must tackle complex challenges of changing campus culture to improve student outcomes.
BLU-554, a small molecule inhibitor of FGFR4, has been identified as a potential treatment option for up to 30% of HCC patients. The investigational drug was shown to be potent and 'exquisitely selective' for FGFR4 compared to other kinases targeting the FGFR family.
Aid workers should consider long-term archaeological information about local building practices when providing shelter after natural disasters. Archaeological research reveals that communities in the Caribbean have been rebuilding homes for centuries using effective and culturally relevant designs.
Scientists have identified 35 genes and three long intervening noncoding RNA molecules that spur aggressive activity in HER2+ breast cancer. These findings provide a new target for treatment approaches, potentially leading to RNA-based therapeutics.
Two bumblebee species' genomes have been sequenced, providing insights into their behavior and responses to environmental threats. The research highlights the importance of understanding bumblebee biology to address declining populations and ensure their conservation.
A large population-based cohort study found that non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) increases the risk of death by 50% compared to non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). The study also showed that patients with NASH had a higher risk of cardiovascular disease and all-cause mortality over a 14-year period.
Researchers have uncovered new insights into the structural controls of fluid pathways in an active rift system, with potential implications for geothermal exploration. The study focuses on Aluto volcano, a major source of geothermal energy in Ethiopia's Rift Valley.
A recent study published in The Journal of Pediatrics reveals that improper use of infant sitting and carrying devices can lead to fatal accidents. The researchers analyzed records of 47 deaths associated with these devices, finding that two-thirds involved car seats and strangulation from straps was the leading cause of death.
Researchers found that paternally contributed centriole proteins can persist up to ten cell generations, raising the possibility that centrioles may be a non-genetic information carrier. This discovery has profound implications for biology and disease treatment, particularly for understanding centriole-related diseases.
Researchers found that only 3% of newly diagnosed patients with stage III ILC benefited from systemic staging with FDG PET/CT, suggesting CT and bone scan are sufficient instead.
Researchers at Harvard Medical School have developed an imageable mouse model of brain-metastatic breast cancer and shown the potential of a stem-cell-based therapy to eliminate metastatic cells from the brain and prolong survival. The study also describes a strategy to prevent negative consequences of stem cell therapy.
A new study successfully grew stem cells with dead feeder cells, challenging the theory that feeder cells provide nutrients. The discovery suggests that stem cells may only like the topology of feeder cells, enabling a simpler approach to growth using nanomanufacturing techniques.
A study by University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee researchers found that exposure to metformin causes intersex conditions and stunted growth in male fish. The diabetes medication was detected in freshwater systems worldwide and is being investigated as a potential endocrine disruptor.
Researchers developed an imageable mouse model of brain-metastatic breast cancer and tested a stem-cell-based therapy that eliminates metastatic cells from the brain, prolonging survival. The treatment also prevents negative consequences by targeting tumor-specific molecules.
A new study reveals a sharp increase in MS drug costs over the past 20 years, with long-standing drugs like Betaseron and Copaxone seeing average annual price hikes of 21-36%. The study highlights the need for reform to address unsustainable pricing and ensure life-changing treatments remain accessible to patients.
A new Northwestern University study of delinquent youth reveals that mental disorders do not predict future violent behavior, except for substance use disorders. Providing comprehensive treatment to individuals with psychiatric illness may reduce violence, according to the research.
A new study found that US multiple sclerosis drug prices have soared by 700% in two decades, with no drugs available for under $50,000 a year. The research highlights systemic problems in the pharmaceutical industry and a need for public awareness and involvement.
Researchers discovered that cancer rates among hepatitis C patients are significantly higher than those without the virus. The study found a 2.5 times higher rate of all cancers and almost twice as high when liver cancer is excluded.
A simple method tests visual acuity at lower light levels, providing reliable and repeatable measurements of twilight vision. The study's findings suggest that the light level itself is the major factor explaining the decrease in visual acuity.
Researchers found that MR tractography can accurately assess prostate cancer treatment response to androgen deprivation and radiation therapy. Higher tract densities indicate gland shrinkage and subsequent fibrosis after therapy.
Researchers at Children's Hospital Los Angeles found that a new recombinant factor VIII fusion protein prolongs the duration of anti-hemophilia factor in children. This allows for reduced frequency of treatment, reducing the burden on patients with severe hemophilia A.
A recent study surveying nearly 400 hospitals found that 48% lack strict limits on antibiotic use, allowing the dangerous gut infection to flourish. Hospitals with such limitations have stronger evidence-based programs in place.
Researchers at Northwestern University have created the world's first liquid nanoscale laser that can change colors in real time. The technology has significant advantages over traditional lasers, including simplicity, affordability and room-temperature operation.
A team of scientists discovered CRMP1, a protein that acts as a 'chaperone' to prevent misfolding of the toxic huntingtin protein. In healthy brains and tissues, CRMP1 is present in higher amounts than in those affected by Huntington's disease.
A team of scientists from the University of Manchester has identified a new protein called Mbd2 that plays a key role in controlling inflammation during worm infections and allergies. By understanding how this protein functions, researchers hope to develop targeted therapies for these conditions.
Researchers at UC Davis Health System have combined fetal surgery with a placental stem cell treatment to reduce the effects of spina bifida, with six lambs regaining ability to walk without noticeable disability after birth. The study aims to confirm safety and determine optimal dosing for potential human clinical trials.
A new study reveals that biodiversity enhances multiple ecosystem functions, from soil nitrogen accumulation to aquatic algae control. This finding bolsters the importance of conserving biodiversity in maintaining healthy ecosystems.
Researchers at Toyohashi University of Technology developed a novel cell-manipulation tool that can trap and release single cells in a parallel arrangement. The tool, consisting of hollow microprobes, works like micro fingers to pick up human cells.
Researchers have developed a new type of 4D printing material that can transform into different shapes in response to water or heat. The technology has the potential to revolutionize fields such as medicine and construction, with applications including soft robotics and autonomous valves.
Researchers found that people are more likely to accept criticism and make changes if they take a broad, high-level construal view. This involves considering the big picture and believing change is possible. The study's findings have practical implications for delivering negative feedback in the workplace and health education campaigns.
A new technique identifies how genes are controlled and pinpoints source of disease-causing mutations in enhancers. Researchers found that genes are regulated by multiple enhancers, allowing precise control during development and maintaining normal brain function.