A recent study published in Body Image found that mothers who discussed their own weight concerns with their daughters were more likely to encourage healthy habits. The study suggests that avoiding conversations about weight altogether may be the best approach for promoting long-term well-being.
The increased international trade and travel have led to the spread of infectious diseases, including zoonoses like SARS and MERS. The economic cost of these outbreaks can be significant, with the 2001 UK hoof and mouth disease outbreak costing over $10 billion.
A study by University of Bergen researchers found that cruise tourists spend less during port visits, regardless of shopping opportunities. In contrast, land tourists spend significantly more on Sundays and holydays. The study also revealed that repeat visitors tend to return as either land or cruise tourists, not the other way around.
A study in California has identified nearly 60 cases of acute flaccid myelitis, a rare syndrome similar to polio, between 2012 and 2015. The condition affects mostly children and young adults, with symptoms including respiratory or gastrointestinal illness, fever, and muscle pain.
Researchers at Oregon State University have made promising findings about the use of bioactive glass in composite tooth fillings, showing a significant reduction in bacterial penetration. The study suggests that bioactive glass could help slow down secondary tooth decay and provide minerals to replace those lost due to tooth decay.
Researchers assessed the impact of evidence-based principles on medicine procurement in a healthcare facility, achieving significant decreases in expenditures. The ABC/VEN-analysis method helped prioritize medicines and inform training workshops for medical professionals.
Nine leading American scientists, including those supported by NSF, receive National Medal of Science for outstanding contributions to science. The awards also recognize innovators who have made lasting impacts on America's competitiveness and quality of life.
PPPL's role in the W7-X stellarator experiment marks a significant achievement in fusion research. The US collaboration has successfully created and maintained a hot plasma for up to 30 minutes, a crucial milestone in developing sustainable fusion energy.
The Biophysical Society has announced the winners of its annual CPOW Travel Awards to increase women biophysicists' participation at the 2016 Annual Meeting. The recipients include Jana Broecker, Nabanita Das, and others presenting posters or oral presentations on various membrane proteins and calcium signaling.
A plant virus shell triggers a potent immune response in mice, wiping out tumors and preventing metastatic disease. The treatment, using cowpea mosaic virus nanoparticles, shows promise as an effective and low-toxicity alternative to traditional therapies.
A global research team has identified 52 genetic variants associated with age-related macular degeneration (AMD), a disease affecting 150 million people worldwide. The discovery may lead to personalized medicine approaches and new treatments for this debilitating condition.
Inorganic mercury exposure is linked to damaged cell processes, causing more damage at lower concentrations than organic mercury. The study found that inorganic mercury efficiently removes iron from proteins, disrupting key cellular functions.
A new study published in the American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology found that metformin decreases the production of toxins elevated in preeclampsia and helps heal injured blood vessels. The drug is considered safe during pregnancy, offering a potential new treatment option for women with preeclampsia.
Researchers have visualized the self-assembly of protein facets in bacterial microcompartments, revealing a honeycomb pattern and selective arrangement. The study provides new clues for designing novel compartments or nanoscale architectures, potentially aiding in toxin removal or product production.
Researchers at Brown University have developed an algorithm that allows off-the-shelf cameras to capture high-quality 3D images without synchronized projector and camera hardware. The technique uses a structured light flash and can assemble images pixel by pixel to create accurate 3D models.
A $30,000 donation will support research into dogs and children with cancer at the Translational Genomics Research Institute (TGen), following an 8-year-old girl's battle with cancer. Brooke Hester's genomic analysis of canine cancer could help develop new therapies for children with cancer.
Researchers found that stroked calves gained weight faster, weighed more at 90 days, and had lower avoidance distances, indicating a stronger human-animal relationship. Disbudding without anesthesia disrupted this bond.
Scientists at NIST create non-invasive technique to map trapped light vibrations and fine-tune resonator frequency, enabling ultrasensitive sensors and identical resonances. The focused lithium-ion-beam technique allows for high-resolution imaging without disturbing near-fields.
The study found substantial variation in CKD prevalence across European countries, ranging from 3% to 17%, which may be due to factors other than diabetes, hypertension, and obesity. The findings could guide future projections of the CKD burden in Europe and inform prevention and disease management strategies.
Researchers investigate brain structure involved in imitation after stroke or brain injury, discovering the importance of similarity between observed action and produced movement. Lesions in the left hemisphere affect anatomical match, while those in the right hemisphere impact spatial translation.
Scientists used a Baghdad seismometer to capture data on car bombs and mortar fire during the Iraq war. They identified distinct seismic signatures for different types of military operations in urban terrain, such as vehicle-borne improvised explosive devices and mortar fire.
Researchers have discovered a novel receptor in Vibrio fischeri that senses fatty acids, allowing the bacterium to migrate towards these compounds. This finding sheds light on the symbiotic relationship between the Hawaiian bobtail squid and its luminescent bacteria.
A recent study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that paid sick leave can significantly reduce the financial burden on cancer patients. The study, which surveyed over 1,300 patients with stage 3 colorectal cancer, showed that those with paid sick leave were nearly twice as likely to retain their jobs af...
Darwin is a neuromorphic hardware co-processor developed by Chinese researchers that enables efficient execution of Spiking Neural Networks in resource-constrained embedded systems. It supports flexible configuration and has potential applications in intelligent hardware systems, robotics, brain-computer interfaces, and more.
Vestibular schwannomas cause hearing loss by secreting toxic molecules like TNFa, which damages the inner ear. The study provides a new mechanism for sensorineural hearing loss in these tumors.
Researchers at FIU's Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine have identified how arsenic accumulates in plant seeds like rice, which is a major source of dietary arsenic. The discovery has the potential to develop new cultivation methods with less arsenic in the grain.
The study found that brain regions associated with expectation can override objective reality, highlighting the importance of preconceptions in navigation. Researchers hope to apply this knowledge to develop new non-linguistic communication tools.
A $16 million NIH/NINDS grant will fund a seven-year study to create methods for detecting and diagnosing chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) during life. Researchers will examine risk factors, develop clinical criteria, and investigate genetic and head impact exposure risks.
A novel set of helmetless-tackling drills have been shown to significantly reduce head impacts in football players by 28% in one season. The HuTTTM intervention program, tested on 50 NCAA Division I players, aimed to alter tackling behavior and prevent head injury exposure.
The recipients are selected based on scientific merit and will present their research, receive a travel grant, and be recognized at a reception. The winners include students and postdoctoral fellows working on various topics such as membrane protein flux, mechanotransduction, and DNA binding regulation.
A study of over 156,947 U.K. women found that extending IVF cycles beyond 3 or 4 treatment cycles can increase the likelihood of a live birth. Live-birth rates continued to rise with each additional cycle, with 65% of women achieving a live birth by the sixth cycle.
Researchers at UMass Medical School and UMass Lowell are developing Flexware technology to estimate caloric intake of obese patients. The system will be pilot-tested in a clinical trial to increase accuracy and reduce patient bias.
The NIH NCATS RDCRN funded 11 sites to study the natural history of Rett syndrome, MECP2 Duplication, CDKL5 disorder, and FOXG1 syndrome. Rettsyndrome.org announces an additional investment of $65,000 to add three more sites, bringing the total to 14, expanding geographical access and clinical infrastructure.
A new study by University of Akron researchers found that people who use Facebook to meet new friends are most dependent on the platform. The study also discovered personality traits common among specific types of Facebook users, such as extroverts and those with high self-esteem.
New research from Florida Institute of Technology scientists suggests that moderate levels of turbidity can lower stress on corals by shading them from high light. This could be a refuge for coral species in a warmer climate.
A large study of Ebola survivors found that many reported complications such as vision and hearing problems, as well as joint pain, months after recovery. The study suggests that the virus may persist in certain bodily fluids and highlights the need for follow-up care in West Africa.
A study published in PLOS Genetics found that members of four unrelated US families shared an identical BAP1 gene mutation, which increases cancer risk. The researchers traced the ancestral connection back to a couple who immigrated from Germany in the early 1700s.
Researchers discover FDA-approved medications with dual-action against bacterial energy production and specific enzymes, potentially reducing resistance. Such multitarget drugs could treat a range of infections, including tuberculosis and Staphylococcus aureus.
Even before the Affordable Care Act (ACA), cancer survivors in non-expansion states had limited access to healthcare. The study analyzed data from the 2012 and 2013 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System and found that these survivors were less likely to have a personal doctor, receive an annual checkup, or see a doctor due to cost.
The project aims to integrate research workflows with Wikidata to facilitate open science and collaboration across disciplines. Key findings include ongoing efforts to handle scholarly references through Wikidata, which can now be queried for information like city data and female mayors.
A study found that people scoring well on the Life's Simple 7 checklist for a healthy heart have lower risk of developing heart failure. The measures include managing blood pressure, cholesterol, and sugar levels, as well as getting physically active, eating better, losing weight, and quitting smoking.
PhD student Afshin Houshang and his supervisor Dr. Randy Dumas successfully synchronized five oscillators, demonstrating improved oscillator quality and potential for magnonics applications.
Researchers at UGA found that harmful bacteria like salmonella can survive in dry foods for six months or longer, including cookie and cracker sandwiches. The study highlights the need to test all ingredients used in these foods to prevent contamination and outbreaks.
Researchers identified quebecol, a molecule in maple syrup with anti-inflammatory properties, and its derivatives show promise as potential treatments for arthritis and other inflammatory diseases. The discovery could lead to a new class of anti-inflammatory agents with reduced side effects.
A MIT study found that a group of consumers have an unerring knack for buying failed products, time after time. The 'harbingers of failure' tend to purchase all kinds of flop-worthy products, including those with strong initial sales but ultimately poor market reception.
A new theoretical model proposes that humans have an exclusively human capacity for mental time travel, composed of episodic memory and scenario construction. However, no definitive evidence supports foresightful behavior in animals, suggesting they may not possess the same level of mental time travel capabilities.
A new Johns Hopkins study of over 930,000 patient records found that patients undergoing bariatric surgery during winter months fared worse than those in the summer due to lower vitamin D levels. The researchers also noticed a disproportionate number of complications occurred north of latitude 37 degrees.
A study published by University of Delaware plant scientists has identified a stress hormone that appears to increase the virulence of the rice blast fungus. The research may lead to new control methods for the devastating disease.
A team at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory has discovered a novel drug that targets an abnormal RNA molecule called Malat1 in metastatic breast cancer. The drug reduces tumor growth by 70% and prevents metastasis, suggesting that targeting this RNA may be a promising therapeutic approach for treating aggressive breast cancer.
A woman with treatment-resistant depression was found to have a brain tumor after symptoms persisted for six months despite antidepressant and anti-anxiety medication. The tumor, located in her left frontal lobe, was later treated successfully with emergency surgery, resulting in the disappearance of depressive symptoms.
Researchers from the University of Guam studied the effects of tropical cyclones on nutrient cycling in Philippine coastal zones. Cycad plants were found to be particularly resilient to typhoon damage, but their populations are restricted to these coastal zones.
A new Berkeley Lab study found that cool roofs in Guangzhou, China, can lower average urban midday temperatures by 1.2 degrees Celsius during heat waves, a 50% increase over typical summer conditions. This reduction in temperature also decreases the intensity of the urban heat island effect.
An international team of researchers has established the cause of rare Fanconi Anemia: a de novo mutation in the RAD51 gene. The mutation leads to chromosome instability, bone marrow failure, leukemia, and solid tumors, resulting in a significantly reduced life expectancy.
A Michigan State University study reveals that 14- and 15-year-olds are at a higher risk of becoming dependent on prescription drugs within a year after using them beyond the prescribed amount. The research also confirms that peak risk for starting to use prescription painkillers is seen at 16 and 17 years old.
Researchers have filmed in vivo the process by which an AIDS vaccine candidate recruits immune cells to destroy infected cells. The study, published in Nature Medicine, shows how the vaccine induces the formation of the inflammasome, a complex assembly of proteins that triggers an immune response.
A new study reveals that blocking the production of a naturally occurring protein responsible for transporting fats around the body increases life span in nematodes and mice. The research suggests that this protein, VIT, hinders essential cell functions and prevents the reuse of fats for healthier purposes.
Scientists at the National Oceanography Centre have discovered a new type of hydrothermal vent system, which could improve understanding of how the Earth's interior cools. The unique system, driven by hot rock and faults, was found to release significant amounts of heat and chemicals into the crust.
Researchers found that South Africa reduced childhood deaths associated with HIV but failed to meet the MDG4 goal due to its narrow definition. The country's progress is deemed a 'success' when considering overall child mortality levels, despite not meeting the target.
Researchers at NREL have developed a new photoelectrochemical process for producing hydrogen that uses molecular catalysts instead of precious metals. The new method is more efficient and cost-effective, making it a promising solution for scalable hydrogen production.
A study published in JAMA found that nearly half of working individuals with stage III colorectal cancer lost their jobs due to their diagnosis. However, those with access to paid sick leave were more likely to retain their jobs and experience reduced personal financial burdens. The study highlights the importance of providing paid sic...
A team of NUS researchers discovered over 120 protein targets of artemisinin in Plasmodium falciparum, the most pathogenic malaria parasite. The study found that haem is the main activator of artemisinin, which targets essential biological processes in the parasite.
The European Respiratory Society and ESCMID have published the world's first clinical guidelines for chronic fungal lung infections, describing key features of the disease and providing comprehensive treatment recommendations. Chronic pulmonary aspergillosis affects an estimated 240,000 people in Europe and 3 million worldwide.
Researchers have discovered that newly introduced populations of the invasive seaweed Gracilaria vermiculophylla in North America and Europe contain significantly higher levels of toxic compounds, including Prostaglandin. This increase in toxicity poses a risk for food safety and may lead to more frequent cases of human intoxication.
Seismologists used a network of instruments deployed in Iraq to analyze the seismic patterns of explosions, including mortars, rockets, IEDs, helicopters, and drones. The analysis allowed them to reconstruct the sequence of events leading up to the 'cook-off' explosion.
A 33-year-old professional goalkeeper suffered an extremely rare complete rupture of his teres major muscle while playing a football match. He recovered after conservative treatment and physiotherapy, eventually returning to competition level without pain or limitation.
Researchers at Rockefeller University have identified pivotal changes in epigenetic pathway genes required for forming the cerebellum's circuitry. The study reveals that specific epigenetic regulators are crucial for neuronal connections and ion channel expression.
The Chang'e-3 mission provided 'ground truth' for lunar volcanism, with basalts found to be unlike those returned by Apollo and Luna missions. The findings suggest the Moon's upper mantle is composed of diverse minerals, providing clues to its formation and evolution.
Researchers have created a new type of liquid crystal elastomer that can precisely emit laser light without mirrors, while being stretched. This innovation could lead to the development of remote sensors and precisely tunable light sources for various applications.
The £10.2m investment will focus on genomic diagnoses, innovative therapeutics, heart failure, and device innovation to tackle cardiovascular healthcare issues globally. The Barts Heart Centre aims to become the go-to academic medical centre for research and treatment of cardiovascular disease in Europe.
Scientists at NIST developed a new recipe development tool using advanced math to predict the capabilities of polymer-nanoparticle mixtures. By modeling particle shapes more realistically, they created virtual nanoparticles that can analyze real-world particles and make general statements about their behavior in mixes.
Researchers discovered brief opportunities for recovery from chronic stress by altering gene expression, enabling neural circuitry changes. The brain retains the ability to change and adapt, even under repeated stress.
Doctors can address suffering more effectively by recognizing it through questioning and listening to patients. This approach complements the familiar 'diagnosing and treating,' helping patients reconnect with what's important and meaningful in their lives.
Researchers have found that screening male kidney transplant candidates for prostate cancer does not prolong their survival and may even delay receiving a transplant. Elevated PSA levels detected through screening were associated with a reduced likelihood of receiving a transplant regardless of the patient's age or PSA level.
Sea spray from oceans sends aerosols into the atmosphere, affecting cloud formation and duration. The unique ice nucleating particles in sea spray initiate the formation of ice in clouds, impacting their composition.
Harmful algal blooms are becoming a major threat to inland water quality, with increasing frequency and severity due to climate change and nutrient enrichment. Inland surface waters lack formal monitoring programs, hindering efforts to protect aquatic ecosystems and human health.
The Biophysical Society has announced the winners of its international travel grants to attend the 60th Annual Meeting in Los Angeles, California. The recipients are chosen based on scientific merit and their proposed presentation at the meeting.
The Jefferson Lab accelerator has successfully delivered full-energy electrons as part of its commissioning activities for the 12 GeV Upgrade project. This achievement enables scientists to probe deeper into the nucleus of atoms and study the fundamental building blocks of matter.
A new study published in EPJ Data Science found that exercising and spending time outside the home reduces participants' stress levels, while reduced working hours have a minimal effect. The research used data from the StudentLife project at Dartmouth College to validate this approach, which has great promise for future studies.
A new study by Cornell Food & Brand Lab found that nutritionally improved kid's meals at Disney World resulted in 48% of diners opting for the healthier option. The healthier alternatives reduced calories, fat, and sodium by 21.4%, 43.9%, and 43.4%, respectively.
A new analysis of genetic information from over 4,000 cancer cases reveals rare germline mutations in 114 genes associated with cancer. The study found varying frequencies of these mutations across 12 cancer types, including a surprising inherited component to stomach cancer.
A study published in the Journal of the American Society of Hematology found that women on blood thinners can take hormone-containing contraception or hormone replacement therapy without an increased risk of blood clots or uterine bleeding. The study analyzed data from 1,888 women and showed similar incidence rates of blood clots and a...
A 17-year-old woman contracted rat-bite fever from her pet rodents, a rare condition that can be treated. The case highlights the risk of infection from pet animals and the importance of proper hygiene.
A study by Charité researchers has identified a specific protein and its splice variant as crucial in the development of cardiac hypertrophy. Initial activation of this protein leads to an increase in production of proteins associated with early cardiac development, causing the abnormal thickening of heart muscle.
Researchers apply shape optimization methods to enhance electric motor performance, achieving a 27% decrease in cost functional. The approach identifies optimal motor geometries that cannot be imagined beforehand, resulting in smoother rotation patterns and improved overall efficiency.
Scientists have discovered a major metabolic pathway in cyanobacteria that can efficiently convert carbon dioxide into organic compounds. The pathway, led by NREL scientists, has the potential to produce chemicals and biofuels from CO2 or plant biomass, reducing reliance on natural gas.
A new model developed by UCL scientists predicts the 'shelf life' of library and archival collections, taking into account factors such as temperature, humidity, and handling. The model suggests that a hotter and more humid climate will accelerate degradation, but also provides strategies for mitigating damage and optimizing preservation.
Research suggests that genetic variation in the ZnT2 protein may be common in women and associated with abnormal zinc levels in breast milk. Women with this variation may have trouble breastfeeding and their milk may contain lower than normal amounts of zinc, posing a risk to exclusively breastfed infants.
A study found that NSAIDs and opiates had no significant difference in pain scores, but NSAID use was associated with more rescue medication. Smaller chest tubes reduced pain, but efficacy has not been proven.
Scientists at Augusta University found that YAP helps control astrocyte function, regulating the protective blood-brain barrier. Without YAP, astrocytes become hyper-reactive, leading to deadly inflammation and potential hydrocephalus.
A study found that women with breast cancer who received chemotherapy and triptorelin had a higher long-term probability of ovarian function recovery without affecting pregnancy rates or disease-free survival. The treatment showed modest benefits regarding potential prevention of treatment-associated infertility.
A meta-analysis of five RCTs found no significant differences between nalmefene and placebo in mortality, quality of life, or mental health outcomes. However, participants taking nalmefene had fewer heavy drinking days and lower total alcohol consumption compared to those on placebo.
Researchers captured footage of New Caledonian crows manufacturing and using hooked stick tools in the wild, demonstrating their sophisticated foraging behavior. The study found that crows value their tools and use them to probe for food in tree crevices and leaf litter.
The Biophysical Society has announced the winners of its Committee for Inclusion and Diversity Travel Awards, which aim to encourage participation by underrepresented students and postdoctoral fellows in biophysics. The 2016 recipients will be honored at a reception on February 27, and their research focuses on various aspects of bioph...
A longitudinal study of 3882 bariatric surgery patients found sustained weight loss for at least four years post-surgery. The study also revealed significant improvements in pre-existing type 2 diabetes and hypertension, as well as a reduced risk of obesity-related co-morbidities.
Researchers studying oxygen toxicity among Navy divers have found that exposure to high levels of oxygen can cause cardiovascular and muscular performance to deteriorate between dives. The study aims to identify a treatment for this condition, which could also benefit astronauts and aviators relying on breathing high-oxygen mixtures.
Researchers have discovered that boron nitride nanotubes can create even stronger and more stable materials when combined with lightweight polymers than previously thought. The unique properties of boron nitride nanotubes make them an attractive alternative to carbon nanotubes for aerospace and other industries.
A new study found that bariatric surgery can significantly improve type 2 diabetes and reduce high blood pressure. The procedure also prevents 80,000 cases of hypertension, 40,000 cases of type 2 diabetes, and 5,000 heart attacks over a four-year period.
Children under 5 living in economically disadvantaged rural areas have a higher risk of medication poisoning. The study found that these areas have lower household income, high unemployment, and fewer resources for child supervision.
A teenage girl's excessive codeine use led to a confusional state and loss of memory. Doctors warn that the lack of evidence supporting codeine's benefits in cough remedies makes its risks particularly unnecessary.