A UCI study found that acupuncture treatments significantly reduced systolic and diastolic blood pressures in hypertensive patients. The treatment also lowered levels of norepinephrine and renin, which constrict blood vessels and increase blood pressure.
Researchers have developed a more affordable and eco-friendly white LED that can cut down the world's energy consumption. By using common earth-abundant metals and organic luminescent molecules, they created a controllable white light from LEDs, reducing costs by up to 90%.
Johns Hopkins University researchers identified the hippocampus region responsible for distinguishing between familiar and new memories. This finding validates theories about memory processing and may help explain memory impairments in diseases like Alzheimer's, potentially preserving people's memories as they age.
A QUT study found that solo travelers prioritize freedom, meeting new people, and self-discovery over having a companion. Despite challenges like extra costs and safety concerns, the positives outweigh the negatives, making solo travel an increasingly popular option.
The new technology uses a continuous flow chemical reactor and microwave heating to produce nanoparticles that emit light with precise color control. This could lead to improved LED lighting systems with reduced waste and toxicity, cutting the nation's lighting bill in half.
Researchers used computer models to simulate a tsunami generated by an earthquake in the Ventura basin, finding that it could inundate parts of the regional coastline several kilometers inland. The study highlights the potential for significant tsunami hazards in the area and emphasizes the need for full hazard assessments.
Researchers at the University of Missouri found that diaphragm muscle cells and limb skeletal muscle cells respond differently to exercise training in diabetic rats. This discovery could influence future research on respiratory failure in individuals with diabetes.
A new study by Duke University reveals that drought can cause trees to die years after the drought ends, with 72% of affected trees dead within a decade. Thinning out competing trees and monitoring tree growth rates can help prevent this decline.
A study of 109 clinicians found that older participants are more likely to believe playing video games leads to violent behavior, highlighting a generational effect. The researchers suggest that parents can help bridge this gap by engaging with their children and trying out the games themselves.
Researchers successfully transplanted mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) derived from human amniotic membranes into laboratory mice with oxygen-induced retinopathy, demonstrating the potential of MSCs to suppress causes of diabetic retinopathy and macular degeneration. The study found that AMSCs secrete growth factors that inhibit angiog...
Researchers at the NIH have successfully tested an experimental MERS vaccine in monkeys and camels, demonstrating broad protection against different strains of the virus. The vaccine uses a synthetic DNA sequence that combines elements of SARS and MERS-CoV proteins, inducing protective immunity in non-human primates.
The USDA Forest Service's online Waterviz tool will be strengthened by a National Science Foundation (NSF) grant, enabling it to reach more students and educators. The tool, which combines environmental sensors, music, and digital art, aims to increase understanding of science and data literacy.
A recent study published in the International Journal of Cardiology found that home-based treatment (HBI) for chronic heart failure patients was more cost-effective than traditional clinic-based intervention. The study showed that HBI resulted in longer patient survival, reduced hospital stay duration, and lower healthcare costs
Working 55+ hours per week is associated with a 33% increased risk of stroke and a 13% increased risk of coronary heart disease. Longer working hours are linked to increased stress, physical inactivity, and high alcohol consumption, which may increase the risk of stroke.
New research has substantially reduced China's estimated carbon emissions from the past decade, suggesting that international agencies had overestimated its cumulative emissions by as much as 2.9 gigatons. The revised estimates were made possible by a more accurate understanding of fuel quality and emission factors.
A University of Kansas researcher's study found that compulsory schooling laws in Northern US states led to more people marrying those with the same education level and race, potentially contributing to economic inequality. The study suggests that regional differences in economic development may have influenced this outcome.
NASA's Aqua satellite provided visible and infrared data on Super Typhoon Atsani, revealing powerful thunderstorms around a wide-open eye. The storm's sea surface temperatures were warmer than 300 kelvin, supporting its intensification.
A study by Ben-Gurion University researchers highlights the importance of social media in emergency situations. The public is often the first to adopt social media platforms during emergencies, creating a self-regulating environment where users can correct misinformation and share relevant information.
A fossil monkey specimen representing the earliest baboon ever found has been discovered in South Africa, dated between 2-2.36 million years ago. The partial skull confirms earlier suggestions that the fossil baboon species is closely related to modern baboons and may be the earliest known members of the Papio hamadryas species.
A research team led by Alexander Mikheyev found a population of wild bees in Ithaca, New York, that has retained its strength despite the presence of Varroa destructor mites since the mid-1990s. The bees have developed genetic resistance to the disease.
A study by Iowa State University found that activity trackers are less accurate when measuring strength training, with some monitors overestimating calories burned. The BodyMedia Core was the most accurate tracker, while the Misfit Shine was the least, with error rates of 15.3% and 30.4%, respectively.
A new synthetic DNA vaccine has been developed to induce protective immunity against the Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) coronavirus in animals. The vaccine, administered six weeks prior to exposure, was found to fully protect rhesus macaques from disease and generate potentially protective antibodies in camels.
Mutations in genes involved in synaptic communication can drive neuropsychiatric and neurological diseases like autism spectrum disorder and Alzheimer's disease. Disruption of a new sorting pathway severely hampers neuron-neuron communication.
Dr. Martin Duncan's new model proposes that gas giants like Jupiter and Saturn formed through the accumulation of small 'pebbles', allowing cores to form rapidly enough to capture their atmosphere. The successful model predicts the formation of one to four gas giant planets, consistent with the observed outer solar system configuration.
A study published in the Journal of the American College of Nutrition found that eating instant oatmeal for breakfast significantly reduced food intake at lunch. The researchers attributed this effect to the higher molecular viscosity of beta-glucan in instant oatmeal, which enhanced satiety and feelings of fullness.
Recent studies have shown that thinking of plants and animals as autonomous individuals is a serious over-simplification. Microbiologists propose the concept of holobionts, which consists of visible hosts plus millions of invisible microbes that significantly affect development, diseases, behavior, and social interactions.
A study by Florida Atlantic University finds that black borrowers, especially low-income black women, pay significantly higher interest rates on home mortgages compared to their white counterparts. The rate difference can be substantial, resulting in additional monthly mortgage payments and lost wealth over time.
Economist Edward Barbier calls for international cooperation to protect the world's most at-risk nations from hurricane damage and long-term climate change impacts. He advocates for coastal protection plans, economic diversification, and restoration of natural barriers to safeguard vulnerable populations.
Researchers identified three distinct groups of asthma patients characterized by different genes in airways, with Th2 and Th17 pathways reciprocally regulated. Blocking both pathways simultaneously may demonstrate better efficacy than targeting either alone.
Scientists at Johns Hopkins Medicine deciphered the structure and unusual shape of bacterial protein IstB, which prepares segments of DNA for jumping genes. The clamshell shape bends DNA into a 180-degree U-turn, priming it for transposon insertion.
Researchers at VIB and KU Leuven found that inhibiting PHD1 prevents p53 activation, leading to improved response to chemotherapy in colorectal cancer cells. This discovery offers new therapeutic potential for increasing sensitivity to chemotherapeutic treatments.
A study by Concordia University found that exercising regularly can reduce body-related guilt in teen smokers, while non-active smokers experience higher levels of shame. The research suggests that physical activity may be a promising solution to prevention and cessation.
The new online-only journal focuses on interdisciplinary discussion and debate in reproductive biomedicine, including its societal and cultural implications. The first issue covers a symposium of research on the history of the first IVF births.
Researchers suggest planetary pebbles, icy objects about a foot in diameter, were the building blocks for Jupiter and Saturn. This new model improves solar system formation models, producing the observed structure of the solar system with two gas giants, two ice giants, and a pristine Kuiper belt.
A saliva test for stress hormone cortisol may identify healthy older adults at risk of cognitive decline, with higher evening cortisol levels linked to smaller brain volume and poor memory skills. The study suggests a potential link between cortisol's toxic effect on the hippocampus and dementia risk.
Researchers found that emails with 'black-sounding' names received a response 4% less often than those with 'white-sounding' names. This disparity was most pronounced in sheriffs' offices, where 'black-sounding' names were 7% less likely to receive a response.
New supercomputer models capture normal human heart valves' behavior and their replacements, helping doctors make more durable repairs. The models can simulate the effects of realistic blood flow on heart valve tissue, allowing for better understanding of valve failure mechanisms.
A systematic review found modafinil enhances cognition in non-sleep-deprived individuals, particularly on complex tasks. The drug improves decision-making, planning, and mood, while having minimal side effects.
Researchers have developed a new method for studying protein structure using nanoscopic pores, allowing for the analysis of individual proteins without modification. This technique enables the detection of protein aggregates, which are associated with diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's.
Typhoon Goni, a Category 4 hurricane, was analyzed by NASA's Aqua satellite on August 19, 2015, revealing cloud top temperatures as cold as -63.1F/-81.6C surrounding its eye.
Engineers at the University of California, Riverside discovered that nearly 15% of baby spinach leaf surface area may reach concentrations as low as 1000 times that of bleach disinfectant, allowing bacteria to survive and spread. The study highlights the limitations of current disinfection methods in reducing cross-contamination.
The causes of stellar explosions known as Type Ia supernovae have been debated for decades. Recent studies suggest that either one or two white dwarfs can trigger these events, shedding light on the evolution of galaxies and dark energy. Understanding this phenomenon will inform our study of the universe's expansion.
A University of Queensland scientist cautions against shark culling, citing challenges in managing populations and predicting long-term ecological impact. The expert's research uses DNA analysis to estimate shark numbers and predict population trends.
Researchers found that increasing a man's height and masculinity while maintaining age at around 35 makes them appear more dominant. This study provides insight into casting choices made by film directors, who often choose actors with these characteristics for leading roles.
A study led by Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and MIT reveals a genetic circuit controlling fat storage versus burning. The research identifies two key genes, IRX3 and IRX5, which are under the control of the FTO gene variant associated with obesity. Manipulating this pathway may offer a new treatment approach for obesity.
Research at the University of Surrey reveals peak concentrations of ultrafine particles reach up to 4000 times local background levels during building activities. Breathing these particles can lead to cardiovascular and respiratory system diseases.
A University of Kansas study reveals that physical activity is more beneficial for preventing and managing diabetes among college graduates than those with less education. Adults with a college degree who are physically active were 6% less likely to have pre-diabetic symptoms.
Researchers have developed a strategy for genome-wide annotation of primary miRNA transcripts, providing extensive new annotations in human and mouse. This study sheds light on the mechanisms of regulation of microRNA gene expression, including novel regulatory mechanisms and alternative promoters.
Researchers found a strong association between helium and groundwater, suggesting that large volumes of helium are being transported into natural gas fields. This discovery indicates that the existing helium reserves may be greater than initially thought.
Researchers have discovered promising new compounds that may reduce alcoholics' urge to drink by targeting the brain's pleasure centers. The compounds, known as beta-carbolines, appear to be less addictive and cause fewer side effects than current treatments.
Researchers have developed an easy-to-implement method to eliminate or reduce cross-contamination in commercial processing facilities that prepare leafy greens for the market. The new approach uses a photocatalyst to kill bacteria, particularly E. coli, which is responsible for many outbreaks.
Researchers developed a new process to improve the flavor of commercially sold tomatoes. By adding a hot water pre-treatment step, they found higher levels of flavor compounds and better taste. The approach is easy and inexpensive, and could be implemented in current commercial systems.
A recent study found that signaling to one another can be lost in populations, particularly if receiving the signal is not crucial for mating. This loss of signals can happen rapidly and may lead to extinction or hybridization with other species.
The Assisted Dying Bill aims to provide protection for terminally ill and mentally competent adults through judicial consent, but experts disagree on its safeguards. Jacky Davis argues that the bill will result in fewer suffering deaths, while Baroness Ilora Finlay warns of potential vulnerabilities among certain groups.
The US Supreme Court's Obergefell v. Hodges decision reduces stigmatization and discrimination among LGBT individuals, leading to improved mental and physical health. The ruling also expands health coverage for same-sex couples and addresses barriers to care through employer insurance and tax benefits.
NASA's Aqua satellite captured infrared data on Tropical Storm Danny, revealing cloud top temperatures near -63F/-52C and sea surface temperatures over 300 kelvin. The storm is expected to strengthen and potentially become a hurricane by August 23, with maximum sustained winds reaching 105 mph.
Seizures in neonates after cardiac surgery are common and linked to higher mortality rates, according to a new study. The study found that seizures were not uncommon and would not have been detected without continuous EEG monitoring.
Reducing trade barriers between countries leads to a decrease in defence spending, as shown by researchers Roman Zakharenko and his colleagues. The study found that increased trade volumes can reduce defence spending globally, with significant reductions observed in countries participating in trade relations.
The Sumatran rhinoceros is considered extinct in the wild in Malaysia due to lack of sightings since 2007. The remaining individuals are estimated to be fewer than 100 in Indonesia, with nine in captivity; conservation experts urge increased efforts to save the species.
New research from Wake Forest University reveals little difference in the force delivered by archerfish's water jets to targets at different distances. In a surprising twist, fish prefer closer targets when given the choice, likely due to time constraints for prey capture.
Researchers at MIT and Harvard Medical School discovered a new pathway that controls human metabolism by prompting adipocytes to store or burn fat. The study identified two master controllers of thermogenesis, IRX3 and IRX5, which turn off fat storage genes and restore energy balance.
A new study by Montefiore and Einstein researchers recommends referring pregnant women with severe headaches and elevated blood pressure immediately for neuroimaging and monitoring. The study found that high blood pressure is a major indicator of preeclampsia, which can lead to pregnancy complications.
Researchers discovered single-cell organisms can somersault and bend their bodies to navigate confined spaces, exhibiting unique behaviors such as meandering wanderings and ballistic swimming traits. This finding has significant implications for the study of microfluidics and its applications in various engineering and scientific fields.
Researchers created a vomiting device to study the aerosolization of virus particles similar to human norovirus. They found that only 0.02% of the total virus in the vomit was aerosolized, but this can still amount to thousands of infectious particles.
Researchers have developed a technology to economically convert atmospheric CO2 into highly valued carbon nanofibers, which can be used in products like strong composites and sports equipment. The process uses electrolytic syntheses and is powered by solar energy, with potential to remove large amounts of CO2 from the atmosphere.
The Louisiana Tech University will contribute to a $20 million NSF grant focused on multi-scale replication and forming technologies, as well as adaptive manufacturing of small numbers of application-specific structures using laser-based 3D printing. The university's faculty and infrastructure will support the success of this project.
A three-year NSF-funded grant will support research on how brain cells regulate locomotion in zebrafish. The project aims to understand the role of neurotransmitters, particularly GABA, and identify specific receptor types that control movement.
Counterfeiting in the fashion industry can lead to improved quality, aesthetics, and affordability for consumers. Brands react by investing in superior materials and designs to differentiate themselves from counterfeit products.
In a study of Bahamas mosquitofish, female genitalia evolve to show 'no means no' to predators and interbreeding males. Females in areas with high predation risk have smaller genital openings, while those without predation risk have larger, more oval-shaped openings.
Researchers at North Carolina State University have developed an algorithm that can assess the onset time, pitch and magnitude of wheezing sounds to provide healthcare professionals with information about lung condition. The algorithm is effective regardless of patient size and can handle breathing pattern variability.
A team of researchers found that several bat species are struggling in fragmented landscapes, but also discovered that shade-grown coffee plantations offer a lifeline for biodiversity. These plantations keep native forest canopies while promoting wildlife-friendly agriculture.
Researchers identified two new genetic susceptibility regions specific to European women with PCOS, including a region containing the FSH gene, which plays an essential role in ovarian function. The study provides crucial insights into the disorder's biological pathways, paving the way for new treatments and disease prevention approaches.
Researchers developed a faster method for classifying benign and malignant human breast tissues using fresh samples. This automated method eliminates the need for time-consuming tissue preparation and specialist assessment, potentially improving breast cancer management in developing countries.
Patients without obstructive CAD are just as likely to experience angina after a heart attack as those with obstructive CAD. Non-invasive strategies to reduce angina burden could significantly impact patients' health and quality of life.
Researchers found that tubulin assembly involves a single machine comprising the largest four genes, which powers the process using chemical energy and assembles microtubules that play critical roles in cell structure and division. Understanding this system may provide new strategies for controlling microtubules in cancer cells.
Krishnakumar Kizhatil has been awarded the prestigious Lewis Rudin Glaucoma Prize for his research on Schlemm's canal, a unique vessel that plays a key role in glaucoma. The prize recognizes Kizhatil's work as a major breakthrough in understanding the molecular basis of intraocular pressure elevation and its link to glaucoma.
Researchers found a significant increase in helium-3 to helium-4 ratio at the hot spring closest to the volcano prior to the 2014 eruption. This suggests that helium anomalies are associated with phreatic eruptions, potentially offering valuable insights for long-term risk management and disaster mitigation.
Researchers investigate how mechanical loading affects bone strength and disease-related fragility by studying collagen's biological mechanism. The study aims to deliver new understanding of mechanically-induced adaptation in bone and provide ways to target bone disease through collagen modulation.
Researchers analyzed toilet waste from international flights to identify disease-causing microorganisms and resistance genes. The study found geographical differences in resistance genes and microorganism prevalence, highlighting the potential for airports as global surveillance sites.