The Rhine River has been found to be among the most polluted rivers worldwide due to high levels of microplastic pollution. The river's surface contained an average of 892,777 particles per square kilometer, with some areas reaching peak concentrations of up to 3.9 million plastic items per square kilometer.
A study by University of Pittsburgh researchers outlines a framework for developing catalysts that convert excess CO2 into liquid fuel. The catalyst's effectiveness is determined by its hydrogen adsorption energy and Lewis pair hardness, allowing for more efficient and inexpensive production.
Research found that hedge fund activism initially bolsters target companies but weakens competitors, potentially reducing innovation and consumer growth. Average investors are more likely to hold stock in competitor firms, which may face reduced investment in research and development.
Researchers developed a portable ultrahigh vacuum storage system to securely transport air-sensitive platinum metal clusters for XAFS measurements. The 'suitcase' can store up to three samples and is designed for public transportation, reducing travel time and increasing accessibility.
A large US study found that over half of patients with controlled type 2 diabetes receive more tests than recommended guidelines, leading to overtreatment and potential patient harm. The study also highlights fragmented care coordination as a possible reason for repeat tests.
A recent study suggests that eliminating food deserts may not lead to improved dietary quality in the US. Instead, initiatives like education and changes to food assistance programs can have a greater impact on reducing disparities in diet quality. The authors argue that addressing these disparities is crucial for improving public health.
A team of researchers from Lehigh University and partners studied self-assembled complexes of DNA wrapped around single-wall carbon nanotubes using two-color photoluminescence spectroscopy. They confirmed a fast DNA autoionization rate and demonstrated that DNA holds the nanotube in water without changing its properties.
New research shows women now spend more years with moderate or severe disability and 2.5 years more with mild disability compared to 20 years ago. Despite this, women's life expectancy at age 65 increased by 3.6 years, while men's life expectancy increased by 4.5 years.
A phase 1B clinical trial of the novel antidepressant NSI-189 has shown that the compound appears to be safe and may be effective against depression. The study found improvements in depressive and cognitive symptoms in study participants, with effects persisting for several months after treatment discontinuation.
A new theory explains how ice becomes slippery when a hard material slides across it, improving ski design and understanding glacier movement. The study uses experimental data to connect temperature and sliding speed to friction on ice.
The African cheetah's migration from North America was costly, resulting in a reduced gene pool and increased inbreeding rates. The species' genetic variation has been severely impacted, with only 90-99% of its original diversity remaining.
Researchers found that combining palbociclib with paclitaxel shrank tumors in nearly half of patients with estrogen-receptor positive breast cancer. The combination appears to be safe and may offer benefits over paclitaxel alone, suggesting a larger clinical trial is warranted.
A study reveals that factors contributing to healthy living behaviors among children differ between countries, challenging the notion of a 'one-size-fits-all' approach. Short sleep duration and poor sleep quality are linked to unhealthy habits in high-income countries, while flexibility and discretionary time may play a role in low-inc...
Pat Segu, a clinical associate professor at the University of Houston College of Optometry, received the prestigious Distinguished Service Award from the Vision Care Section of the American Public Health Association. Her work in establishing clinics, programs, and associations has improved access to eye care for underserved communities.
A systematic review and meta-analysis of 54 studies involving over 17,000 physicians found that nearly one-third screened positive for depression or depressive symptoms during residency. The overall pooled prevalence was 29%, with an increased prevalence in later calendar years.
Researchers at University of Missouri breed pigs that do not produce protein CD163, which helps spread PRRS virus. The study could save the swine industry hundreds of millions of dollars annually by preventing this disease.
A new study found that black patients receiving Medicare are less likely to receive biologic therapies for moderate to severe psoriasis than white patients, while those without low-income subsidy are also at a disadvantage. Psoriasis, a chronic inflammatory disorder, has limited therapeutic options due to high costs and limited insuran...
A review article discusses novel tissue engineering approaches to repair spinal disc herniation, targeting underlying disc injury or instability. The emerging biological repair methods show promising preclinical outcomes, potentially reducing pain and restoring spine motion.
A study of over 21,000 women found that only 1 in 6 with increased breast cancer risk take preventive medication, despite being eligible for clinical trials. Most women who started the medication continued taking it for at least a year, but usage declined over time.
A Singapore-led team, with support from the Swiss Rising Tide Foundation, is conducting a Phase III clinical trial to evaluate Aspirin as secondary prevention therapy for patients with established colorectal cancer. The study aims to determine the effectiveness of Aspirin in reducing cancer recurrence and mortality.
The temple of Angkor Wat has been found to be significantly larger and more complex than previously believed, featuring an entire ensemble of buried 'towers' and a massive structure bounded on its south side. The discovery challenges traditional understanding of the social hierarchy of the Angkor Wat community.
Researchers have discovered a way to manipulate the parasite that causes African sleeping sickness, making it easier for the host immune system to eliminate. By inhibiting specific proteins, they can 'trick' the parasite into a different stage of its lifecycle.
The Salk Institute has identified a drug called JQ1 that prevents and reverses liver fibrosis in animals, a condition that replaces normal liver cells with scar tissue until the organ no longer works. This discovery may also treat fibrosis in other organs such as the lung, pancreas, and kidney.
Researchers found a combination of adult stem cells and parathyroid hormone significantly increased new bone formation in laboratory animals. The therapy also showed enhanced stem cell migration to the area of bone fractures, leading to improved bone density.
Researchers found that hip x-rays are unreliable for diagnosing hip osteoarthritis in most cases, potentially delaying treatment and missing affected individuals. The study suggests that patients with suspected hip OA should be treated regardless of x-ray confirmation.
A pediatric study of 341 children with sickle cell disease found that prasugrel did not significantly reduce the rate of pain crises or severe lung complications. The trial, conducted across 13 developed and developing nations, was one of the largest and geographically broadest trials on sickle cell disease to date.
Researchers developed a new technique called photogeometric scene flow (PGSF) that combines three computer vision methods to capture high-quality and detailed facial features. The method produces superior results in capturing facial details, making it extremely valuable for realistic facial reconstructions.
A group of 40 climate experts warn that relying on carbon-capture technologies may not be enough to combat global warming. They emphasize the need for swift and aggressive cuts in greenhouse gas emissions to avoid Earth's temperature increasing by more than 2 degrees Celsius.
Researchers at Oxford University have successfully conducted human trials on the 'rescued' drug ebselen, which may offer a safer alternative to lithium for treating bipolar disorder. The initial trial found that ebselen had similar effects on the brain as lithium and showed promise in reducing side effects.
A recent study found that delay discounting, the tendency to choose smaller rewards now rather than larger ones later, is strongly influenced by genetics. As individuals age, their ability to wait for larger delayed rewards improves. The study suggests that genes related to serotonin synthesis and binding may play a role in impulsivity.
The UTSA-led team will design and develop piezoelectric sensors to generate electricity from moving vehicles, powering roadside lights, traffic signals, and electric car charging stations. This technology has been field-tested in US and international studies, offering a clean alternative to fossil fuel-generated power.
A study by Aarhus University reveals that breeding confident mink can improve fur quality. The research found a strong correlation between confidence and pelt quality, suggesting that selecting for confident mink can lead to better welfare and fewer stress issues during handling.
New studies from the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine found that aspirin use is not associated with improved clinical outcomes or survival among breast cancer patients. However, another study suggests that aspirin may help reduce breast tissue density, which could lead to earlier detection of some breast cancers.
A new study analyzing 50 years of research on depression in medical residency found that nearly one-third of new doctors may be depressed, with potential consequences for their patients' health. The study's findings emphasize the need for improved mental health support and strategies to prevent and treat depression among young doctors.
A new species of toothed pterosaur, Cimoliopterus dunni, discovered in Texas and linked to its closest relative in England. The discovery suggests prehistoric creatures moved between North America and England earlier than previously thought.
A new UCL study found that concentrating attention on a visual task significantly reduces brain response to sound and increases failures to detect audible sounds. This phenomenon, known as inattentional deafness, has serious implications for everyday life and tasks requiring focus, such as operating theatres or driving.
A study found that individuals with internet access are 5% more likely to claim ignorance when faced with general-knowledge questions. This suggests that constant connectivity to information leads to a diminished reliance on personal knowledge.
A study published in The Journal of Neuroscience found that playing 3D video games improved memory performance by 12% in non-gamer college students, while 2D gamers did not. This suggests that environmental enrichment through immersive gaming may be a viable route to stem cognitive aging.
Researchers found an increase in healthy ageing, with less cognitive impairment and more years lived in good health. However, the proportion of people with mild disability increased, leading to a larger number of unhealthy individuals.
New research reveals a genetic influence on choosing immediate rewards over delayed ones, linked to serotonin and kappa opioid receptors. This finding suggests a potential genetic basis for impulsivity and addiction-related behaviors.
Researchers at Binghamton University found that text messages ending with a period are rated as less sincere than those without punctuation. The study suggests that punctuation influences the perceived meaning of text messages and is used to convey emotions and social information.
A new decision support tool has been developed to help farmers and policymakers optimize soil carbon stocks and fertility. The tool identifies five cost-effective methods to improve soil health, including crop rotation, residue handling, and conservation agriculture.
A new lifestyle risk score has identified two new risk factors: sedentary behavior and sleep. Higher scores were associated with greater risk of mortality, with a population attributable risk of 31.3%. The findings reaffirm the importance of healthy lifestyles for adults aged 45 and older.
A University of California, Riverside assistant professor will lead a team studying the role of soil in crop water use and response to drought. The research aims to design management strategies based on understanding soil carbon and its microbiome.
Scientists at NCAR predict a possible slow-down in winter sea ice loss over the next several years, driven by changes in the North Atlantic ocean circulation. Weakening of the AMOC may mask human-caused climate change impacts and stabilize sea ice extent.
A new University of Florida study suggests that coral reefs may be more vulnerable to nutrient pollution from human activities, even with the presence of herbivores. The research highlights the need for a holistic approach to protecting these ecosystems.
Researchers at UC San Diego are investigating DNA methylation in the blood as a potential signature for Parkinson's disease. The study, funded by the Michael J. Fox Foundation, aims to improve early diagnosis and treatment of the chronic movement disorder.
A UTSW-led study identified three neurobiologically distinct biotypes of psychoses, which do not always match conventional clinical diagnoses. The findings suggest that the term 'psychosis' might describe unique psychiatric disorders with distinctive mechanisms and treatments.
A new report finds that 5.8 million US children ages 5-17 have ADHD, up from 3.7 million in 2003, with a notable increase among girls. The study also reveals racial and ethnic disparities in ADHD diagnosis, particularly among Hispanic youth.
Researchers have discovered proteins that could serve as diagnostic markers for bipolar I disorder, differentiating it from other mood disorders and potentially guiding treatment choices.
A recent study published in The BMJ found that the flu vaccine is unlikely to trigger an allergic reaction in children with egg allergy. Young people with well-controlled asthma or recurrent wheeze can also be safely vaccinated, according to the findings.
Bacteria sense their environment and change direction using a molecular machinery that relies on protein interactions and chemical signals. The new study reveals key insights into the chemosensory array, shedding light on how bacteria make decisions.
A new study published in the journal Stroke demonstrates that vagus nerve stimulation can improve recovery in stroke patients by reducing impairments and increasing motion and strength in affected arms. The trial involved 20 patients with arm weakness due to stroke, showing significant potential for reducing disabilities.
A new research study published in JAMA found that 28.8% of resident physicians screen positive for depression during their residency, highlighting an important issue in graduate medical education.
Gynecologists argue the FDA's warning on power-morcellation is based on flawed data and may limit access to safe, effective treatment options for women. The study group suggests that better preoperative identification and new techniques could improve patient outcomes.
A new study from Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health proposes that law enforcement-related deaths be treated as a 'notifiable condition' and reported to the CDC. The authors found that blacks face significantly greater risk of being killed by police than whites, with some cities experiencing rates up to 19 times higher.
Researchers at UCLA found that people struggle to accurately identify the source of sights and sounds, despite relying on our senses for perception. The study suggests that the brain makes tradeoffs between precision and error tolerance, with benefits for tasks performed in high-acuity areas but limitations in outer areas.
Researchers found that telomeres slow down and sometimes even reverse with weight loss and exercise in breast cancer survivors. Higher body fat levels are associated with shorter telomere length.
Researchers have found a way to manipulate trypanosomes in the mammalian bloodstream to acquire fly stage characteristics, making them easier for the host immune system to eliminate. Inhibiting specific proteins that interact with chromatin can 'trick' the parasite into differentiating to a different stage of its lifecycle.
Research finds that medical students' involvement in evaluating patients adds only a few minutes to the average length of stay, allowing for balance between educational needs and treatment. The study's results provide reassurance for teachers who transition students from observing to aiding medical care.
The Brain & Behavior Research Foundation awarded $1.5 million Distinguished Investigator Grants to 15 scientists conducting innovative projects in neurobiological and behavioral research. The grants aim to understand and treat psychiatric disorders affecting one in four people.
A phase IIR/III clinical trial investigates whether surgery or stereotactic body radiation can control metastasis while continuing breast cancer therapy. Researchers aim to define parameters for determining which patients benefit from this 'weeding the garden' approach.
A team from The Hebrew University of Jerusalem suggests that rare mergers of binary neutron stars are the origin of naturally occurring radioactive plutonium-244. This theory resolves the Galactic radioactive plutonium puzzle by explaining why only a small amount of plutonium has reached Earth in recent 100 million years.
Scientists at the Max Planck Institute found that cooperating bacteria form cell clusters to exclude non-cooperating bacteria from their community. This mechanism stabilizes long-term partnerships without requiring complex recognition of potential partners.
A Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health study found diacetyl, a flavoring chemical, in over 75% of flavored e-cigarettes and refill liquids, posing a risk to respiratory health.
Scientists at NREL have developed a new probe to monitor the formation and decay of fields within photoelectrodes, enabling better understanding of their photophysics. This breakthrough could lead to improvements in the design of more efficient and stable photoelectrochemical cells for solar energy conversion.
Ivan Dylko's model explores how customizability technologies increase political selective exposure, making users more surrounded with like-minded information and potentially polarized. The research suggests that technology-driven changes exacerbate this behavior.
Researchers will investigate oil's impact on the Gulf of Mexico ecosystem and public health over three years. The funding is part of a larger $38 million GoMRI program supporting research on environmental issues.
A University of Maryland study suggests that higher levels of societal mobility lead to decreased ethnocentric behavior. In mobile societies, individuals are more likely to treat others as individuals rather than groups, resulting in less hostility towards other cultures.
Researchers developed a portable sensor, OcuCheck, that uses graphene and ascorbate oxidase to detect vitamin C levels in ocular fluids. The device can rapidly determine the extent of eye injuries in various settings, including rural areas with limited access to ophthalmologists.
Children with common allergies like asthma and hay fever have a higher rate of hypertension and high cholesterol, setting them up for heart disease early on. Inflammation from these conditions may contribute to cardiovascular risks.
New mapping and dating reveal timing of past earthquakes and tectonic deformation distribution across the western U.S. Death Valley's faulted alluvial fans help determine seismic hazard mitigation and understand great landscapes' evolution over recent geologic time.
Researchers identified the orbital partner parasitized by a blue straggler, a star that appears younger and brighter than expected. The study expands our understanding of binary star systems, bringing 25% of all stars into the fold of stellar evolution.
Scientists have reported a high-performance nanoparticle electrocatalyst for fuel cells, featuring durable and active PtFe nanoparticles coated with nitrogen-doped carbon shells. This breakthrough could lead to the development of more efficient and affordable fuel cell technology.
Scientists have developed a method to detect the shape of light waves with unprecedented precision by studying the behavior of 'quasiparticles' - ripples in the electric field that emerge when light meets solid surfaces. This breakthrough has significant implications for applications in metrology, chemical sensing, and adaptive optics.
The article provides recommendations for primary care physicians to screen for mental health issues in Syrian refugees, such as anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder. It also highlights the importance of vaccinations, including measles, mumps, and rubella, as well as screening for chronic Hepatitis B and tuberculosis.
Researchers are exploring the use of ketone esters to treat seizures caused by hyperbaric oxygen toxicity in deep-water divers. Laboratory rats showed improved performance and greater resistance to oxygen toxicity seizures after receiving the dose.
The LAXPC instrument has observed various astrophysical objects, including Black hole X-ray binaries, Microquasars, and Supernova remnants. Its large detection volume and efficient xenon gas filling result in high detection efficiency above 30 keV.
Research suggests that second-generation antidepressants and CBT have comparable effectiveness in treating major depressive disorder. Experts recommend making both treatments accessible to primary care patients, regardless of personal preference.
A public health approach to counting US law-enforcement-related deaths could provide real-time data needed to understand and prevent police violence. By making these deaths a reportable health condition, public health departments can track trends and inform policy changes.
A study found that newly trained family physicians intend to provide a broader range of healthcare services, including prenatal care and inpatient care. The researchers suggest that these differences may be due to limited practice support or employer constraints rather than generational changes.
PolyU researchers develop integrated algorithm to estimate real-time journey time and traffic speed, taking into account uncertainty and on-time arrival probability. The system offers personalized driving routes with enhanced reliability, saving time and petrol for motorists.
Research from the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine found that pre- and post-test counseling for genetic mutations increases knowledge and decreases anxiety in BRCA-negative patients. After testing, most women reported declines in general anxiety and improvements in genetic knowledge.
A Mayo Clinic study reveals that adults with type 2 diabetes are often tested more frequently than needed, resulting in unnecessary costs and time burden. The researchers found that excessive testing increases the odds of overtreatment with hypoglycemic drugs.
Scientists have used subterranean rock samples to help fill a gap in the history of Earth's magnetic field, shedding light on North America's position 400 million years ago. The study provides new insights into Paleomagnetism and its relevance to understanding the continent's geological past.
A new study finds that biomarkers outperform symptoms in identifying distinct psychosis subgroups, suggesting a more precise diagnosis may lead to improved treatments. The research used 1,872 participants and identified three biotypes, each with unique patterns of brain function and structure.
A new study found that adult consumers of fresh pears had a lower body weight and were 35% less likely to be obese compared to non-pear consumers. Pear consumption was also associated with higher diet quality, as defined by the Healthy Eating Index.
A new project, WasteTaste, uses energy-efficient vacuum-drying technique to convert food waste into valuable ingredients and new products. The process preserves flavor, color, and nutritional value of the original produce.
The first international patient registry for primary ciliary dyskinesia (PCD) has been launched, aiming to collect data on the disease's effects, treatment options and progression. The registry will help advance understanding of PCD, improve diagnosis and treatment, and facilitate access to clinical trials.
A new study suggests that pomaglumetad methionil, a glutamate pathway target, may be an effective treatment for individuals in the early course of schizophrenia. Researchers found a statistically significant response in patients who are early-in-disease or have not already been exposed to other antipsychotic medications.
A team of researchers has identified biological markers that can classify mental disorders with greater precision, using neurobiological measures to differentiate conditions. The findings may lead to improved diagnostics and treatments for those suffering from mental illness.
Research suggests that social networks play a significant role in student academic performance. Students tend to perform better when surrounded by high-achievers, who inspire them to try harder. On the other hand, befriending underachievers can lead to a drop in grades over time.
The current scientific description of the human cell cycle is being revised due to new findings that challenge traditional understanding of DNA replication. Cancer cells exploit an unusual form of DNA replication to bypass genetic changes that cause cancer.
The discovery of Phosphorosaurus ponpetelegans, a 72-million-year-old marine reptile, reveals new insights into the evolution of mosasaurs. The fossil's superior preservation provides details on its unique characteristics, including binocular vision and a hunting strategy that involved targeting glowing fish and squids at night.
A study by University of Missouri researchers shows that telehealth services are well-received by patients, with 83% satisfied with skilled care received during their visit. Providers also report high satisfaction levels, with 86% finding the service easy to provide care via.
A randomized controlled trial found that isopropyl alcohol nasal inhalation reduced nausea scores by half and improved patient satisfaction compared to saline solution. The remedy has potential to alleviate symptoms of nearly five million emergency patients annually.
A UMass Amherst chemist has received a $330,000 NSF grant to improve the production of fuels from plant biomass. The project aims to optimize shape-selective catalysis in zeolites for efficient conversion of carbohydrates into gasoline.
A rapid molecular assay using RNA biomarkers in blood can differentiate sepsis from infection-negative systemic inflammation more accurately and quickly than traditional methods. The assay, known as SeptiCyte Lab, was validated in independent cohorts and showed high sensitivity and specificity.
Research from the Sax Institute's 45 and Up Study reveals a 'triple whammy' effect of prolonged sleep, excessive sitting and lack of exercise on mortality risk. The study found that a combination of these factors increases the risk of early death by more than four times.
Researchers deployed seismometers to create maps of seismic velocities beneath the West Antarctic Rift System, revealing a hot zone beneath the Bentley Subglacial Trench. This discovery suggests that the rift system was active recently and may have implications for the future of the giant ice sheet in Antarctica.
A study analyzing DNA from over 1200 CHD patients found overlapping genetic influences during early childhood development, suggesting a link between heart defects and neurodevelopmental delays. The research identified 21 genes harboring protein-damaging mutations in more than one patient, which may lead to targeted therapies.
An analysis of over 1.3 million emergency department visits found that the presence of medical students was associated with a statistically significant increase in patient length of stay. However, this effect may be too small to have clinical relevance.
A new study from Karolinska Institutet found a significant link between maternal polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) and autism spectrum disorders (ASD) in children. The study, which analyzed data from over 24,000 ASD cases and 200,000 controls, suggests that exposure to sex hormones early in life may play a role in the development of ASD.
The new report summarizes the latest science on integrated watershed management to meet the needs of billions of people dependent on food, timber, and clean water. It highlights the importance of smart reforestation to mitigate life-threatening natural events like floods and landslides.