A study by the University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science found that emissions controls on coal-fired power plants reduced mercury levels in the air by up to 75% over a 10-year period. This reduction was strongly correlated with power plant emissions from Ohio, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia.
Nanolive SA announces the launch of its groundbreaking 3D Cell Explorer microscope, which enables real-time exploration of living cells in 3D. The tool has the potential to fundamentally change research in cell biology across various fields, including education, universities, cosmetics, hospitals, and pharma industry.
The University of Tennessee is working to solve its state and nation's obesity problem with a new center focused on reducing childhood obesity. The USDA grant will support programs like SNAP-Ed and EFNEP to improve nutrition education and address barriers to healthy living.
New fossil evidence reveals that Australia's fire-prone shrubland open vegetation originated at least 70 million years ago. This finding rejects the previous notion that rainforests covered Australia until 40 million years ago and instead suggests that native vegetation types evolved under the influence of fires on a drying continent.
Researchers used genome sequencing to trace Ebola's spread in Liberia, finding that most cases were linked to a single introduction of the virus in September 2014. The study suggests that widespread migration within Liberia contributed to the outbreak's magnitude and longevity.
A Journal of the American College of Surgeons study reveals that a hospital's safety culture plays a significant role in delivering high-quality patient care. The study found that 10 out of 12 safety culture factors influenced surgical site infection rates after colon operations.
Researchers have developed innovative, eco-friendly polyethylene fibers from natural fats like olive oil and peanut oil. These ultra-strong fibers can stop speeding bullets, serve as sails, ropes, and surgical sutures while minimizing environmental harm.
Adding carboplatin to presurgery chemotherapy significantly improved disease-free survival rates for patients with triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). The study found that patients with pathologic complete responses had the lowest risk of relapse, supporting the use of carboplatin as a standard part of neoadjuvant therapy regimens.
A gold standard data record has been established to improve cancer genome analysis and detect somatic mutations reliably. The record, obtained from interlaboratory testing, provides a basis for laboratories to evaluate their bioinformatic methods and thresholds for detecting specific mutations.
Professor José Azaña has been elected Fellow by the Optical Society (OSA) in recognition of his remarkable contributions to ultrafast photonics. He is the only Quebec academic and one of three Canadian researchers among this year's group of 77 OSA Fellows.
A review of 18 studies found that health professionals' knowledge of female genital mutilation (FGM/C) varies greatly according to their work setting. FGM/C is a harmful practice affecting 100-140 million women worldwide, with long-term complications including recurrent urinary infections and psychological problems.
A study published in Mayo Clinic Proceedings found that women with heart disease attend less than half of their prescribed cardiac rehab sessions, yet still show significant improvements in exercise capacity. Researchers suggest tailoring programs to individual needs and promoting female-only models may improve participation rates.
Researchers from Syracuse University found that atmospheric argon and neon are trapped in minerals formed at ultra-high pressure depths within the Earth's mantle. These findings indicate that noble gases can be recycled from the atmosphere into the deep Earth, and back to the surface again through a process known as forearc recycling.
A new method developed by UC San Diego biologists can quickly identify and characterize compounds capable of controlling antibiotic-resistant bacteria in natural product extracts. This breakthrough could shave years off screening efforts and lead to the discovery of new antibiotics, addressing a growing global crisis.
A study by McGill University researchers proposes using metal powders as a viable alternative to fossil fuels for generating electricity and powering transportation. The use of metal powders in external-combustion engines could provide a zero-carbon solution with recyclable fuels that store clean primary energy.
A recent study by researchers at the University of Toronto found that negative views on aging can negatively impact memory and hearing in older adults. The study suggests that education and training exercises can help improve cognitive and physical performance, dispel stereotypes about aging, and enhance overall quality of life.
Researchers at Oregon State University have developed a three-drug delivery system that targets cancer cells in the lymph nodes, reducing toxicity and resistance. The technology has shown success in laboratory animals and holds potential for treating various types of cancer that spread through the lymphatic system.
A study published in Frontiers in Psychology found that people are quicker to find a hard-to-see person in an image when the directions mention a prominent landmark first, as opposed to last. The researchers also discovered that listeners prefer to use these landmarks as 'mental bookmarks' to speed up the process.
A five-year, $60 million project will integrate HIV services with tuberculosis, malaria, family planning, nutrition, and other health services. The project aims to increase the availability, accessibility, and quality of health services for vulnerable populations in southwestern Uganda.
A University of Florida Health study found that increasing alcohol taxes can decrease gonorrhea rates by 24 percent. The tax increase resulted in 2,400 fewer statewide cases of gonorrhea in Maryland during the 18 months after it went into effect.
Researchers discovered that astrocytes are repelled by amyloid plaques, contrary to previous assumptions. This finding suggests that modifying astrocyte function rather than changing position may be a key response to plaque formation.
Scientists at Princess Margaret Cancer Centre discovered that blocking the master regulator of bone renewal, RANKL, stops osteosarcoma. The findings provide a strong rationale for using this drug to develop targeted therapy for patients.
A new sensor developed by UCL scientists can detect and identify five commonly used explosives in solution within 10 seconds. The sensor uses fluorescent technology to create unique 'fingerprints' for each compound, allowing for multiple explosives to be detected with a single test.
A team at Tohoku University developed sNOOOpy, a genetically encoded FRET-based indicator that senses nitrate and nitrite levels. The sensor can monitor intracellular levels in real-time and has potential applications in various organisms and research fields.
Two researchers at TU Dresden have been awarded EU funding to investigate neurogenesis and cell cycle regulation, aiming to produce human neurons and improve cancer treatment strategies. The projects will focus on understanding the biological rules of neurogenesis and the interaction between cell cycle machinery and redox systems.
Researchers discovered how a common parasite, Toxoplasma, hijacks host cells to store food for decades, altering host behavior. The findings could lead to vaccines and drugs to protect against the parasite's serious risks, including miscarriage and birth defects.
A new study led by Adda Grimberg proposes to reframe the debate on treating short stature in children. The research team found that psychosocial issues such as self-esteem and future adult success dominate parent discussions, with treatment characteristics and health concerns playing a significant role in decision-making.
Researchers found that teens who witness others using substances are more likely to engage in antisocial behavior, especially those with a 'risk-taking' gene. The study used cell phones to track teens' daily lives and found that witnessing substance abuse triggers misbehavior.
Jason Dworkin, chief of NASA's Astrochemistry Laboratory, has made significant contributions to our understanding of the early solar system through his research on organic compounds in meteorites, comets, and asteroids. His work has identified amino acids and nucleobases that are precursors to essential biological molecules, shedding l...
Older men with central sleep apnea are at greater risk of developing atrial fibrillation (AF), according to a recent study. The research suggests that addressing central sleep-disordered breathing may help prevent AF in this population.
Researchers found that certain plant species can quickly respond to induced climate challenges through rapid genetic changes. This study suggests that pre-existing genetic variation plays a crucial role in supporting plant resilience in the face of climate change.
A 15-million-year-old fossil sperm whale specimen from California has been re-analyzed by researchers, revealing a new genus name 'Albicetus' due to its bone-white color. This discovery sheds light on the evolution of body size in sperm whales and suggests that they may have fed on large prey like marine mammals.
Researchers applied complexity theory from computer science to study ecological and evolutionary dynamics, revealing unexpected connections between the two fields. They found that certain fundamental questions in ecology and evolution can be precisely characterized by specific classes of complexity theory.
A multidisciplinary accountable care team model has been shown to decrease hospital stays and lower costs by $649 per stay. The ACT model, implemented across an urban hospital, has also improved communication with patients and families, as well as employee engagement and job satisfaction.
Researchers at Rice University and Swansea University have developed a new class of superhydrophobic nanomaterials that are inexpensive, nontoxic, and can be applied to various surfaces via spray- or spin-coating. The coating is equivalent in performance to commercial coatings that employ hazardous fluorocarbons.
A new study finds that minimally invasive hysterectomies for early uterine cancer are less accessible to poor and minority women, despite being linked to fewer postoperative complications. The procedures occurred only 23.6% of the time in low-volume hospitals, which performed fewer than 10 hysterectomies annually.
A study published in Neurology found an association between pesticide heptachlor epoxide and reduced brain cells in nonsmokers who drank more than two cups of milk daily. Researchers discovered residues of the pesticide in 90% of participants with high milk consumption, but note that the study does not show cause-and-effect.
A series of low-pressure areas pummelled the Pacific Northwest from Nov. 29 to Dec. 9, 2015, bringing heavy rain and snow to western Washington and northwestern Oregon. The National Weather Service described the event as a classic atmospheric river event with subtropical moisture and upper-level disturbances affecting the region.
Recent studies present new data on the myRisk Hereditary Cancer test, highlighting its ability to identify patients with deleterious mutations who may have been missed by traditional genetic testing. The test demonstrated a significant increase in identifying BRCA-related mutations among those tested without BRCA1/2 results.
A large UK study of one million women found no association between unhappiness and increased mortality. Life-threatening poor health can cause unhappiness, but unhappiness itself is not directly linked to illness or death.
An experimental study found that an imbalanced gender ratio affects views about casual sex, with women more willing to engage in casual sex when they outnumber men. Men, on the other hand, tend to place less importance on casual sex and be more open to long-term commitment when there are more women than men.
A Finnish study found that children who were frequently bullied or exposed to bullying had a higher risk of developing psychiatric disorders in adulthood. Treatment for these disorders was associated with frequent exposure to bullying, being a bully, and being exposed to bullying.
Researchers developed a nanostructured metal coating that lets light through without hindering electrical access, outperforming flat surfaces. The coating combines enhanced optical transmission with electrical contact, enabling higher-efficiency optoelectronic devices.
A new study from the University of Rochester found that early life exposures to toxic chemicals like PCBs and DDE reduce infants' responses to vaccines. The research, which analyzed blood samples from over 500 mother-infant pairs in eastern Slovakia, shows that even small changes can lead to long-term immune system dysfunction.
A study from Simon Fraser University suggests that plus-sized models in advertising campaigns may contribute to growing obesity rates. The researchers found that non-traditional models with larger body types can have a detrimental effect on the public's lifestyle and eating behavior.
Researchers used biosolids to create a soil blend that supported healthy bacteria, fungus, and plants, outperforming traditional compost in restoring the degraded surface area of Lake Calumet Cluster Site. The 'dream treatment' has potential to restore poor quality soils in Chicago's dense urban areas.
A newly discovered skeleton of the hyaenodontid Galecyon provides insight into the ecology and evolution of early mammalian carnivores. The study reveals diverse habitat preferences among early hyaenodontids, explaining how they coexisted despite similar diets and body sizes.
A new Henry Ford Hospital research study has found significant racial disparities in surgical outcomes for black and Hispanic patients undergoing major cancer and non-cancer surgeries. Despite improvements seen in other areas of healthcare, these disparities persist even at quality-improvement institutions.
Researchers quantify the amount of drag on entangled whales created by towing fishing gear, revealing significant effects on energy costs and survival. The study provides crucial data for evaluating risks and benefits of whale disentanglements and reinforces current efforts to minimize entangling gear.
A landmark clinical trial shows that beta blockers and ACE inhibitors effectively prevent heart function drop in patients with early-stage breast cancer. The study suggests these medications can improve breast cancer survival rates by limiting interruptions to chemotherapy treatment.
Scientists have developed a new, faster way to detect explosives using quantum dots. The approach can identify five dangerous compounds, including the 'shoe bomber' Richard Reid's explosive, within 10 seconds.
A Massachusetts General Hospital study found that unmet socioeconomic needs, such as difficulty affording food or transportation, are directly related to poor health outcomes. Patients with unmet needs were more likely to have chronic conditions like diabetes and hypertension.
A comprehensive genomic analysis of Ebola virus sequences from Liberia reveals a single introduction source, followed by local spread and diversification. The study also identified reintroductions as a key factor in the continuation of the outbreak in Guinea.
NCAR will develop a revolutionary forecasting system to predict wildland fire behavior in Colorado, capturing critical feedbacks between fires and local weather. The system will provide unprecedented detail about interactions between weather and fire, helping firefighters and the public.
A new study has developed pediatric pain measures to help doctors better evaluate and treat children with chronic pain conditions. The study, conducted by researchers at the University of Cincinnati, found that traditional pain measures used for adults were uncomfortable for younger children and had limited vocabulary.
Research published in the European Journal of Preventive Cardiology reveals that bariatric surgery can reduce cardiac stress and chronic subclinical cardiac injury in morbidly obese patients. In contrast, lifestyle intervention had a limited impact on reducing high-sensitivity cardiac troponin I levels.
Mount Sinai researchers developed a synthetic vector to rapidly eliminate total cellular miRNA populations, revealing the limited role of microRNAs in modulating cell biology over long periods. This tool enables manipulation of miRNA responses for potential treatment of diseases like cancer.
Scientists have uncovered a new, 160 million-year-old ceratopsian dinosaur from China with an 'ornamental' texture on its skull. The fossil, named Hualianceratops wucaiwanensis, provides insights into the early evolution of Ceratopsia and suggests that at least five ceratopsian lineages may have emerged during this period.
Temple researcher Arthur M. Feldman warns that the newly approved heart drug Entresto may increase patients' risk of Alzheimer's disease and macular degeneration. The drug was approved for heart failure via the FDA's fast-track program, but its cognitive risks have not been fully tested.
A University of Illinois study links instability in young adults' lives to increased risk-taking behavior, including casual sex and impulsive sexual activity. The researchers suggest that colleges should focus on teaching stress management and self-esteem skills to reduce these risks.
A new study found that images of intense staring eyes and a clean citrusy smell substantially improved hand-washing rates among hospital staff and visitors. The researchers discovered that exposure to male eyes led to a higher rate of hand-washing compared to female eyes, while the citrus smell boosted hand-washing by nearly 50%.
Researchers have uncovered a 380-meter-deep time capsule from Lake Malawi, providing unprecedented insight into the past of this African lake. The study found that changes in lake level over the last 1.3 million years played a significant role in the development of the lake's diverse fish species.
Gut bacteria break down pomegranate polyphenols to produce urolithins, which are anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective compounds. These compounds reduce A\u00e0 fibrillation levels in vitro and increase lifespan of an Alzheimer's roundworm model.
A new study found reduced grey matter volume in key brain areas of youths with behavioral problems, including the amygdala, insula, and prefrontal cortex. These regions are crucial for decision-making, empathic responses, and emotion regulation.
Results of a phase 1b clinical trial show ONT-380 achieves at least stable disease in 58% of patients with metastatic HER2+ breast cancer, including 11 partial responses and one complete response in patients with brain metastases.
Scientists discovered a cellular mechanism that allows herpes simplex virus to reactivate in neurons, triggered by stress. The virus uses a protein pathway called JNK to escape the neuron's repressive environment and cause disease.
Scientists have found a way to solve complex problems using a quantum computer traveling along 'open timelike curves' without breaking the laws of causality. This breakthrough allows for supercomputational power while maintaining the integrity of quantum principles.
A Syracuse University study, Project SWIFT, aims to establish a baseline for groundwater quality and develop geochemical fingerprinting tools to analyze water quality in areas with potential shale gas drilling. The researchers are analyzing flow-back water to uncover unique chemistry not found in well water.
A new imaging test has been developed to identify more dangerous tumours before they spread, and tailor treatment accordingly. The test uses oxygen-enhanced MRI technology to map areas of oxygen deprivation within tumours.
A University of Georgia study found that depressed Pinterest users are lacking in proactive coping approaches and positive messages. Researchers analyzed 783 posts and found that many displayed serious or severe depression, with few health professionals addressing the issue.
Studies reveal that long-term sex work may increase HIV-1 resistance through changes in the cervical and vaginal microenvironment. Women who remain uninfected despite repeated sexual activity exhibit lower immune activation, enhanced expression of interferon ε, and reduced expression of genes critical for HIV survival.
A new tree frog species, Dendropsophus bromeliaceus, has been discovered in the Brazilian Atlantic forest, where tadpoles develop in pooled rainwater stored in bromeliad leaves. The species is distinguished by its small size and unique color pattern.
A study identified significant differences in cancer genome sequencing procedures and quality among research institutions, leading to inconsistencies in detected mutations. A reference mutation dataset has been established to improve procedures for identifying true somatic mutations in cancer genomes.
The researchers used a bottom-up approach to generate complex shapes, driven by the physical properties of materials. The droplets shape-shifted into various forms through the self-assembly of a plastic crystal phase.
Researchers Dr. Harold Clarke and Dr. Karl Ho are studying voter behavior in Hong Kong elections, examining attitudes toward electoral democracy and factors that influence voting decisions. The study aims to understand the impact of class, generation, immigration status, and political affinity on voters' choices.
A team of researchers combined large genomic and proteomic datasets to identify new factors that can be targeted to prevent viruses from spreading. They found 20 previously unrecognized host proteins required for IAV replication, including the pivotal protein UBR4.
A rising trend in narcissism may require firms to rethink their marketing strategies by offering customizable products. Studies show that narcissistic consumers desire uniquely designed items and are willing to pay more for them.
Researchers have discovered a new species of plant-eating dinosaur, Hualianceratops wucaiwanensis, that sheds light on the ceratopsian family tree. The findings suggest that Jurassic period dinosaurs may have had more species diversity than previously thought, with at least four lineages present by the beginning of the Jurassic Period.
A new study published in Biological Psychiatry reports the successful reduction of fear in spider-fearful participants following a 2-minute exposure combined with a single dose of propranolol. The treatment resulted in drastically reduced avoidance behavior and increased approach behavior, with effects persisting for one year.
A new study suggests that global land surface temperatures will increase by an average of almost 8C by 2100 if significant efforts are not made to address climate change. This would have a devastating impact on life on Earth, posing risks from extreme temperatures, flooding, regional drought, and food shortages.
A mathematical problem in particle and quantum physics is provably unsolvable, showing that even a complete microscopic description cannot predict macroscopic behavior. This finding limits the extent to which we can predict the behavior of quantum materials.
According to the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH) survey, Ontario students reported high levels of hazardous drinking, with 29% of 12th graders engaging in hazardous drinking. The survey also found that more students used electronic cigarettes than tobacco cigarettes.
A $1.2 million DOE grant will support the development of biosensors to track phosphate movement in real-time, enabling more efficient use of symbiotic relationships between plants and AM fungi. This technology has broad applications beyond biofuels, benefiting economically important crops worldwide.
A systematic review found that many health professionals have limited knowledge of FGM/C, its types, complications, and laws. Despite its illegality in many countries, the medicalization of FGM/C perpetuates this practice.
A phase III trial found that capecitabine improved disease-free survival for women with HER2-negative breast cancer that was not eliminated by presurgery chemotherapy. The study showed a 30% reduced risk of disease recurrence compared to standard therapy.
The newly established Collaborative Research Centre on selective autophagy aims to improve therapy for diverse diseases by targeting autophagy at the molecular and cellular level. Researchers will study autophagy in complex organisms, including humans, to understand its role in pathophysiology and develop new therapies.
A recent study by the University of California, Irvine found that three-fourths of ER stroke cases had some degree of preventability, highlighting the need for improved stroke prevention strategies. The study's results suggest that resources for acute stroke treatment may be misdirected towards patients whose strokes are more preventable.
For the first time, a litter of puppies was born through in vitro fertilization, thanks to work by Cornell University researchers. The breakthrough enables conserving endangered canid species and study genetic diseases, as dogs share more than 350 similar disorders with humans.
The EU-funded project aims to lay the groundwork for 3D genomics by standardizing experiments, storing data, and developing protocols. The goal is to move from 1D genomic studies to understanding DNA structure and function in a 3D context.
The inaugural issue of Healthcare Transformation features provocative conversations with thought leaders and decision makers, including Aneesh Chopra and Jack and Suzy Welch. The journal aims to reimagine healthcare delivery, education, and technology, predicting a Blockbuster-to-Netflix paradigm shift in the healthcare industry.
Researchers develop novel method to build large arrays of nanolenses using chemical and lithographic techniques, enabling extremely high-resolution imaging or biological sensing. The technique allows for precise control over nanoparticle placement, producing tiny separations that produce the nanolensing effect.
Researchers at the University of Montana found that current models overpredict plant growth's ability to offset CO2 emissions, suggesting the earth's capacity may be limited. The study highlights the importance of integrating model, satellite, and on-the-ground measurement approaches to improve understanding of plant growth's response ...
A recent survey found that only 42.7% of US hospitals require flu vaccination for all healthcare providers, leaving many staff members unprotected against the virus. This poses a significant risk to patients, particularly those with weakened immune systems.
The US has sufficient capacity to treat another Ebola outbreak, but challenges remain in providing necessary resources, staffing, and training. The study highlights issues with waste disposal, staffing, and pediatric care, emphasizing the need for further investigation and investment.
The ABCSG-18 clinical trial found that adding denosumab to adjuvant aromatase inhibitor therapy improved disease-free survival in postmenopausal patients with HR+ breast cancer. After a median follow-up of four years, patients assigned denosumab had an 18 percent reduced risk of disease recurring compared with those assigned placebo.
Patients with stage 2 or 3 triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) who achieved a pathologic complete response (pCR) after presurgery chemotherapy had significantly improved event-free and overall survival compared to those with more than minimal residual invasive disease. This benefit was observed in patients with larger tumors or lymph ...
A Kaiser Permanente study found that a lifestyle intervention program increased the likelihood of meeting postpartum weight goals by 45% for women with gestational diabetes. The program also boosted vigorous-intensity physical activity by an average of 15.4 minutes per week.
A study published in Menopause journal found that over half of women after menopause experience vulvovaginal symptoms, affecting lifestyle and sex life. Nearly a third haven't seen a gynecologist in two years, while most aren't receiving standard treatment for genitourinary syndrome of menopause.
MicroRNAs, specifically miR-125a, control endothelial cell proliferation and are increased in lung tissue of hypoxia-exposed animals. Inhibition of miR-125a increases expression of tumor suppressor genes, reducing cell proliferation.
A recent study identified 20 previously unknown host molecules that enable influenza A viruses to replicate and spread. Blocking these host proteins can inhibit viral growth and slow disease progression in mice. The researchers developed a public web portal to facilitate drug development and analysis of host-protein interactions.
Researchers at Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health report a strong association between new onset epilepsy and increased risk of suicide attempts. The study found that patients with new epilepsy had a nearly two-fold increased risk of recurrent suicide attempt compared to controls.
Researchers discovered a single genetic mutation responsible for 20% of severe congenital heart disease cases accompanied by neurodevelopmental disorders. The study used genomic sequencing to analyze 1,213 children with congenital heart disease and identified a subset of genes that act as conductors in organ formation.
A new study by scientists from the University of Chicago reveals that the unique pectoral fins of skates and rays are built using repurposed genes from typical limb-development pathways. The findings provide insight into the genetic mechanisms behind the evolution and diversification of vertebrate appendages.
Asymmetric cell division occurs when endosomes, containing signalling molecules, are distributed unevenly between daughter cells. The central spindle, a scaffold structure composed of microtubules, plays a crucial role in dispatching this information.
A new study suggests that lifting the EU pigswill ban could save around 1.8 million hectares of land by using heat-treated food waste as pig feed, cutting land use by 21.5% and feed costs in half. The model also shows that swill feeding is a safer alternative to grain-based diets.
University of Louisville scientists enhance understanding of muscle repair process by revealing the vital role of protein TAK1 in regulating satellite stem cells. The protein is required for satellite cell proliferation and survival to regenerate adult skeletal muscles after injury or disease.
A team of scientists has discovered that larger crystals of bacteriorhodopsin grow by consuming smaller crystals around them, creating a depletion zone. This phenomenon was observed using fluorescence microscopy over the course of a month, showing how the distribution of protein in the sample changed with time.
A new study by the University of Washington uses a unique volcanic eruption in Iceland to measure the effect of sulfur emissions on clouds. The results confirm that volcanoes cool the planet not just by emitting particles high in the atmosphere, but also by releasing low-level sulfur to influence cloud formation.
A recent study published in Nature Communications reveals that TET protein loss of function leads to rapid development of malignant cancer. The research found that mice lacking both Tet2 and Tet3 developed aggressive myeloid leukemia, highlighting the importance of TET proteins in maintaining genome stability and preventing cancer.
Scientists have found that wrapping tiny liquid droplets in ultrathin elastic sheets produces half-moon shapes similar to street foods. The researchers discovered this shape arises from the most efficient way to cover the drop, minimizing exposed liquid surface area.
A phase III trial found that women with luminal A subtype of breast cancer had comparable 10-year disease-free survival rates regardless of whether or not they received adjuvant chemotherapy. In contrast, patients with non-luminal A subtypes who received chemotherapy were 50% less likely to have their disease recur in 10 years.