Researchers discovered how gut bacteria respond to changes in their environment by cooperating with each other, stabilizing the community and adapting to new situations. This cooperative behavior helps the bacterial community survive and function despite fluctuations in oxygen levels and nutrient availability.
A large cohort study found a modest increase in risk of persistent pulmonary hypertension of the newborn (PPHN) associated with maternal antidepressant use late in pregnancy. The absolute risk was small, and no significant association was found with non-SSRI antidepressants.
A long-term study in Pakistan found that prenatal treatment for depression had no effect on children's emotional and behavioral development. In contrast, maternal depression was linked to worse child outcomes, emphasizing the need for integrated maternal and child health programs.
A study of 1,949 women found that nearly half considered double mastectomy but only 37% knew it didn
Scientists at the University of Bonn discovered two new groups of viruses, Jonchet and Ferak, which are believed to have originated from insect viruses. The researchers found that these viruses are phylogenetically independent and do not multiply above 32 degrees Celsius, making human infection unlikely.
A pilot study reveals significant early results for the program, with a 28% decrease in depression scores and 12% decrease in anxiety scores among students. The program has also led to a decrease in suicidal thinking and improved mental health outcomes.
Researchers found that PASD1, a protein associated with cancer cells, suppresses the circadian clock. The discovery offers new insights into the molecular mechanisms of the biological clock and its potential role in driving cancer growth. Understanding how PASD1 regulates the clock could lead to developing new therapies.
Researchers at Tohoku University have successfully fabricated an atomically thin, high-temperature superconductor film with a Tc of up to 60 K, exceeding that of bulk FeSe. This finding enables the control and tuning of Tc, opening up new avenues for investigating mechanism and developing next-gen nano-scale superconducting devices.
Researchers found that graphene prevents damage to chemotherapy drugs and reduces potential for catheters breaking, potentially improving treatment efficacy. Graphene's biocompatibility and low toxicity make it a promising alternative coating material.
University of Washington researchers are scaling up their 'Sheared Flow Stabilized Z-Pinch' device in hopes of achieving a sustainable fusion reaction. With a $5.3 million grant, they aim to create a proof-of-principle experiment that demonstrates the concept's scalability.
A study found that computerized clinical decision support systems failed to identify relevant appropriateness criteria for most orders, resulting in 63.3% and 66.5% inaccuracies. Despite providing feedback, improvements in appropriate imaging ordering were not immediately observed.
Researchers at KTH Royal Institute of Technology have developed a method to create an elastic, foam-like battery material from nanocellulose broken down from tree fibres. This material can withstand shock and stress, enabling the storage of significantly more power in less space than conventional batteries.
Researchers investigate how sex chromosomes allow gene dosage imbalances without negative effects, with a focus on butterflies and moths as model species. The goal is to understand the mechanisms of 'sex chromosome dosage compensation' (SCDC) in different species.
A recent study suggests that salespeople can accurately judge a customer's needs and make significant gains in sales. By focusing on empathetic interactions, salespeople can improve their intuitive accuracy by over 130%.
The Rosetta spacecraft's ultraviolet instrument has made a surprising discovery about Comet 67P/Churyumov-Gerasimenko, revealing that electrons near the comet's surface break up water and carbon dioxide molecules, not solar photons. This finding fundamentally transforms our knowledge of comets.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins found that re-inflating a balloon in the vessel after stent placement can double the risk of stroke and death. The common practice, known as 'ballooning,' is intended to prevent complications but may actually cause them.
Henry Cox, Senior Fellow at Lockheed Martin, has made fundamental and practical contributions to array signal processing, underwater acoustics, and sonar systems engineering. The Helmholtz-Rayleigh Silver Medal is awarded for interdisciplinary contributions named after two great pioneers of acoustics.
A national study of over 240,000 teens found that prescription stimulant misuse peaks between 16-19 years old. Education programs should start in middle school to prevent such misuse.
A new study reveals that social and sensory overstimulation is the primary driver of autistic behaviors, contradicting decades-old views of autism as a mental retardation. The research proposes that autistic brains are hyper-functional, requiring predictable and structured environments to function optimally.
A new study found that interpersonal conflicts, such as domestic violence and landlord disputes, are stronger predictors of community crime than public disorder. The research analyzed census data and 911 dispatches, revealing a link between private conflict and increased social disorder, crime, and physical violence.
SourceSAGE·JournalJournal of Research in Crime and Delinquency·DateJun 2, 2015
Scientists at OIST eliminated problematic pinholes in perovskite solar cells, significantly improving their lifetime and reducing thickness. The breakthrough enables more efficient energy conversion, with improved durability and potential cost-effectiveness.
Virologists discovered that a small section of the envelope protein, located on its 'tail', is required for it to be sorted into viral particles. This finding could help researchers design more effective vaccines and target HIV with antiviral drugs.
Tropical Storm Blanca is strengthening due to low vertical wind shear, warm waters, and a moist atmosphere. The storm's maximum sustained winds have increased to near 50 mph with higher gusts.
Researchers discovered that nanobubbles persist in liquid, influencing the formation and dissociation of natural gas hydrates. The findings provide insight into the mechanism of hydrate decomposition and could lead to more efficient and safe extraction of methane hydrates.
The Jackson Laboratory will receive a $100,000 grant from The Arthur Vining Davis Foundations to support its 'Teaching the Genome Generation' program, which provides hands-on lab experience for high school science and math teachers. This program aims to prepare students for careers in genome-based healthcare.
Domestic cats have a unique perception of bitterness in food due to variations in their repertoire of bitter receptors, which differs from that of other mammals. The study found that cat taste receptors were less sensitive to certain bitter compounds compared to human receptors, explaining why cats can be picky eaters.
A new study by Naguib Mechawar's team found that networks of astrocytes are altered specifically in areas of the brain associated with mood regulation. The research also discovered unique properties of astrocytes in subcortical brain regions, which may contribute to depression and suicide.
A new survey method reveals that Norwegians' thoughts on climate change are more complex than previously suggested, with balanced views on nature and human activities. The study found that older respondents focus on physical consequences, while younger ones emphasize future concerns.
A cross-disciplinary study applies CHANS to examine dynamics of livestock rearing on the Mongolian Plateau between 1980 and 2010. The research highlights unique opportunities for applying CHANS due to contrasting socioeconomic and political systems in Mongolia and Inner Mongolia.
Researchers at Binghamton University used brain signals to identify individuals with 94% accuracy, suggesting a new type of biometric security. Brainprints are cancellable and cannot be stolen, offering an alternative to traditional methods.
Brown University researchers use numerical models to study the dynamics of active colloids, finding that fluid flows play a crucial role in shaping emergent macro-scale patterns. At high concentrations, particles segregate into lanes and form swirling vortices before jamming into crystals.
A new study reveals that AMPK, the body's fuel gauge, is essential for slowing muscle wasting with aging. Researchers found mice lacking AMPK in their muscles developed significant muscle weakness.
A study suggests that consumers often ignore active ingredient labels on OTC medicine boxes, leading to potential overdoses. Participants with medical expertise correctly weighed the risks of combining medications, while those without did not.
A recent study published in the Journal of Marketing found that shoppers' tendency to make unplanned purchases increases as they spend more on planned items. The likelihood of an unplanned purchase can be up to 9.6% higher toward the end of the trip, depending on the shopper's budget.
Researchers created a cheap alternative to graphene aerogels for electromagnetic absorption, with properties similar to graphene aerogels. The new material has low loss and wide effective bandwidth, making it suitable for various applications.
A Johns Hopkins University-led team discovered that people's brains tend to store colors as one of just a few basic hues, rather than specific shades. This bias affects memory accuracy, making it difficult for individuals to recall the exact color of an object.
A new study by Cynthia Frisby reveals racial stereotyping in the way media portrays athletes, with more stories about black athletes focusing on criminal actions and domestic violence. The research found that more than 66% of crime stories involved black athletes, while only 22% involved white athletes.
The tuberculosis bacterium co-opts mechanisms of the immune system to its own advantage by releasing small bits of DNA into macrophages. This triggers an immune response that helps the bacteria rather than fights it. Researchers have discovered a way to manipulate this process, potentially paving the way for new treatments
A study found that at least 60% of toothbrushes were contaminated with fecal coliforms, even after decontamination methods. The researchers advise better hygiene practices for students who share bathrooms to prevent the transmission of potentially pathogenic organisms.
A study found that online privacy policies often don't meet consumers' expectations, with many assuming protections that were never there. Despite this, 61% of surveyed websites comply with their own policies, yet users rate them as non-compliant.
Researchers from IBS and Seoul National University created ultra-thin wearable QLEDs with resolutions approaching 2,500 pixels per inch. The technology enables the display of high-definition full-color displays on human skin.
A new study published in Radiology found that non-calcified arterial plaque is associated with diabetes, high systolic blood pressure, and elevated 'bad' cholesterol levels. CT angiography can quantify plaque burden and assess progression or regression of coronary artery disease in low-to-moderate risk individuals.
Researchers observed genome-editing proteins using a combination of sliding and hopping to navigate the vast genome. The discovery provides insight into how these proteins can be engineered for improved efficiency and reduced off-target binding, potentially leading to more effective gene therapies.
Researchers transformed bacteria into 'secret agents' that detect abnormal glucose levels in diabetic patients' urine. The bacteria are programmed using genetic transistors, allowing them to amplify and store molecular signals for months.
Scientists discovered that infant brain development occurs years faster than previously thought, with face perception abilities emerging as early as four months. The study used electroencephalography to track brain activity in response to facial images, revealing a unique right-hemisphere processing of faces.
Researchers at the University of Missouri have discovered a type of grass, Setaria viridis, that can fix nitrogen using bacteria, making it a potential model for studying this process in crops like corn and rice. This discovery could lead to more efficient use of fertilizer and promote sustainable agriculture.
The National Psoriasis Foundation has awarded eight researchers $75,000 each to study the causes of psoriasis and develop new treatments. The grants will support research into various aspects of psoriasis, including genetic mutations, skin stem cells, and inflammatory proteins.
A study found that consumers in a wind power program valued community membership over direct personal benefits, driven by a sense of shared risk and responsibility. Participants felt connected to others who lived environmentally conscious lives, influencing their actions and behaviors.
A new study by NYU Langone Medical Center and the NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene found that New Yorkers spend an average of over 7 hours a day sitting, greatly exceeding the recommended healthy levels. College-educated individuals, higher-income residents, and those aged 65 or older spent the most time sedentary.
Stritch School of Medicine's reflection-based curriculum aims to promote student self-awareness, emotional intelligence, and social justice. Students engage in regular reflections on their experiences through the Patient Centered Medicine Course and co-curricular programs.
Researchers found that no-take marine reserves on the Great Barrier Reef significantly reduced coral disease levels, four times lower inside reserves compared to outside. The study highlights the benefits of marine reserves for enhancing coral health and managing fishing-related damage.
Researchers developed coupled microcantilevers that can measure mass on the order of nanograms in a liquid environment with only a 1 percent margin of error. This enables weighing individual molecules, ideal for biological processes such as DNA hybridization and protein characterization.
A multifaceted intervention targeting MRSA carriers significantly reduced complex surgical site infections (SSIs), with a modest decrease in rates of 36 vs 21 per 10,000 operations during the pre- and intervention periods, respectively.
Children with epilepsy who undergo brain surgery are at a higher risk of struggling academically, according to a new study. Despite surgery stopping seizures, these children often experience lower scores in reading, spelling, and numeracy due to pre-existing brain abnormalities.
A new technique developed by Prof. Abraham Katzir uses a fiber-optic laser to seamlessly bond corneal tissue without causing damage or leaving stitches, offering a major breakthrough in corneal transplant procedures. The system has shown promising results in clinical trials, with wounds treated successfully and minimal scar tissue.
A clinical trial involving women diagnosed with fibromyalgia showed significant improvements in symptoms after undergoing hyperbaric oxygen therapy. Brain scans revealed changes in brain activity that may be responsible for the syndrome's chronic pain sensation.
A new study published in Nature Communications shows that light can be used to stimulate larynx muscles in mice, a potential breakthrough for treating laryngeal paralysis. The researchers used Channelrhodopsins, exotic molecules that open ion channels when illuminated, to create static and dynamic contractions.
Researchers Dr. Walter Mischel, Philip Peake, and Yuichi Shoda have been awarded the first Golden Goose Award for their work on the marshmallow test, which found correlations between self-control and life outcomes. Their research has led to advances in teaching self-control and improving lives.
Researchers discovered a large field of deep-sea hydrothermal vents, the Pescadero Basin vents, which are the deepest high-temperature vents ever observed in the Pacific. The vents emit superheated fluids rich in hydrocarbons and support unique animal communities.
Researchers found that type II interferon signals cause the release of CXCL10, an attractant for cells promoting inflammation. This study provides a new impetus for treating colitis with antibodies or direct administration of type III interferons.
Researchers have discovered a young planetary system with a ring-like disk of debris surrounding a Sun-like star, sharing similarities with the formation of our own early solar system. The disk is roughly the same size as our solar system's Kuiper Belt and may contain dust and icy particles.
The Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft has approved 13 new Collaborative Research Centres, focusing on topics such as emotional dynamics, inflammation, and manufacturing processes. These centres will receive approximately $113 million in funding over a four-year period, starting in July 2015.
A new study found that childhood trauma can lead to heightened inflammation across three blood biomarkers in adults. This increased inflammation may contribute to various health problems, including type-2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. The research suggests that different types of trauma have varying effects on inflammation levels.
A Northwestern University team has confirmed a new way to help the airline industry save dollars while also saving the environment. By manufacturing aircraft's metal parts with 3-D printing, airlines could save a significant amount of fuel, materials, and other resources.
Researchers at Carnegie Mellon University successfully separated and weighed a mixture of intact virus particles using matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization MS. This technique, called heavy ion mass spectrometry, allows for the analysis of viruses that are too large to be detected by standard instruments.
Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center identified an enzyme involved in protecting the body from pathogens that senses Mycobacterium tuberculosis. The study found that modulating cGAS activity could be a novel approach to therapy, and cGAMP may be used as a biomarker for active disease.
Bariatric surgery not only benefits patients' health but also strengthens their relationships with partners, according to a new study. Couples reported improved intimacy, better conflict resolution, and enhanced sexual relationships after one partner underwent weight loss surgery.
Dr. Laurel H. Carney has been awarded the William and Christine Hartmann Prize in Auditory Neuroscience for her research on auditory physiology and perception. Her work aims to understand how the brain hears and develop strategies to aid listeners with hearing loss.
Research found that 90% of bacteria on human skin are either dead or inactive, with different areas harboring varying proportions of metabolically active, inactive, and dead microbes. Activity levels decreased with age, suggesting a possible relationship between the microbiome and immune system function.
A recent study by University of Sussex researchers suggests that the impact of scary TV on children's internalizing emotions is smaller than previously thought. Overall, children show very little sign of increased anxiety or fear, but some may be more affected due to individual differences in anxiety levels.
A team of Massachusetts General Hospital investigators has developed a bioartificial replacement limb suitable for transplantation using an experimental approach previously used to build bioartificial organs. The researchers successfully engineered rat forelimbs with functioning vascular and muscle tissue, and provided evidence that th...
Researchers discovered a previously unknown serotype of oral bacterium, Streptococcus mutans serotype k, in African-American schoolchildren in southwest Alabama. The study found the bacteria to be present in 84% of children, with no invasive genes linked to systemic diseases.
Hurricane Andres has weakened significantly due to unfavorable sea surface temperatures, with maximum sustained winds decreasing to near 105 mph. The storm is expected to become a tropical storm tonight or Wednesday, followed by a turn toward the north and a decrease in forward speed.
A group of former senior editors from The BMJ criticize NEJM's backtracking on conflict of interest policies, arguing that financial ties can compromise objectivity. They commend The BMJ's zero-tolerance policy on industry-funded articles and urge NEJM to retain rigorous standards.
Researchers found that Agion silver zeolite technology significantly reduced bacterial populations on door handles, particularly gram-negative bacteria. The study suggests that the technology may be more effective than previously thought, but further research is needed to address concerns about standardization and potential side effects.
Researchers have discovered how Microprocessor, a complex of DROSHA and DGCR8, precisely determines cleavage sites on miRNA-containing primary transcripts. This process allows faithful initiation of microRNA biogenesis.
The Irukandji box jellyfish uses its nematocyst clusters like experienced fishermen use their lures. The tiny but deadly jellyfish actively targets and catches complex fish that are often larger than itself, displaying a surprising complex prey capture strategy.
Researchers found that older adults' cycling speed improved while completing cognitive tasks without sacrificing cognitive performance. The study suggests combining physical activity with mental tasks may encourage more vigorous exercise.
A recent study found that post-menopausal hormone therapy did not improve cognitive function, but may have benefits for certain mood symptoms. The trial included 693 recently postmenopausal women and followed them for four years, with some women experiencing improvements in mood symptoms.
Researchers found that the low-cost, portable device could spare unnecessary biopsies for about 90% of patients with benign lesions. The study involved 147 U.S. and Chinese patients undergoing examination for potentially malignant squamous cell tumors.
Matthew W. Urban, Associate Professor of Biomedical Engineering at Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, received the R. Bruce Lindsay Award for his work on ultrasonic measurement of viscoelastic properties of tissues. The award recognizes his substantial contributions to acoustics through published papers.
A study of over 69,000 individuals in Sweden found no association between varenicline and increased risks of suicidal behaviours, criminal offending, transport accidents, or psychoses. However, a small increased risk was found in individuals with pre-existing psychiatric disorders during periods of medication.
Researchers found that creating conflict with target population can backfire, while positively framed policies support choice and lead to positive responses. The study highlights the need for policymakers to empathize with their audience and work with them rather than against them.
Researchers at The Wistar Institute have discovered how a specific variant of the condensin protein complex plays a crucial role in regulating DNA structure and promoting cellular senescence. This finding provides valuable insights into the anti-cancer activity of cells and could lead to the development of new therapies
A RAND Corporation study found that implementing CDS tools led to a small reduction in inappropriate advanced imaging studies, increasing the proportion of tests rated as appropriate. However, challenges persist due to limited criteria availability and tool limitations.
Dr. Steven Schiff aims to reduce infant mortality from neonatal sepsis by identifying infection causes and developing predictive models for optimal antimicrobial treatment. His research seeks to apply engineering control principles to prevent infections, with potential applications worldwide.
Researchers have successfully prevented black phosphorus from oxidizing, allowing for the exploitation of its extraordinary properties in various devices. The study's results, published in Nature Materials, will help develop new nanotechnologies with high-performance microprocessors, lasers, and solar cells.
A study by Carnegie's Xiaochun Zhang and Ken Caldeira found that the carbon dioxide-caused warming exceeds the amount of heat released by a lump of coal in just 34 days. Continuous power plant burning also triggers similar effects, with CO2 accumulation surpassing combustion emissions within three months.
A new study by University at Buffalo geographers found that Native American villages in Chautauqua County, NY, favored the growth of fire-tolerant tree species like hickory, chestnut, and oak. These trees produce edible nuts and are more likely to survive fires, suggesting that human activity altered the forest landscape.
New research found that children's altruistic behaviors are associated with better physiological regulation and lower family wealth. Children who donated tokens to help others showed greater vagal flexibility and higher vagal tone, indicating better health and well-being.
A national survey found that 84% of teens turn to the internet for health information, but 88% do not share their concerns with friends or social media. This study highlights the importance of accurate and accessible digital health resources for teenagers, who use online tools to make behavior changes and take care of themselves.
The March of Dimes Foundation has funded a Portuguese laboratory to study factors that act in the placenta to protect the fetus from malaria. The research focuses on trophoblast cells, which are crucial for maternal-fetal exchanges of nutrients and gases.
Researchers have identified the epicenter of the brain's predictive ability in limbic tissue, which also plays a key role in emotions. This discovery challenges traditional theories on emotion and suggests that the brain is wired to ask questions about past experiences rather than react to external stimuli.
A new study in the Journal of Marketing found that companies may inadvertently devalue customer relationships with small monetary gifts. The authors suggest firms consider directing such gifts to charity to avoid the 'trivialization effect',
A University of Houston study found that sport facilitates a smoother transition to retirement by providing community, self-confidence, and physical activity. This can lead to a more positive adjustment to retirement changes.
A large study found that teenagers who experienced frequent bullying were more than twice as likely to develop depression later in life. The study analyzed data from over 3,800 participants and suggested that antibullying interventions at school may help reduce depression in later years.
A Michigan State University scholar argues that school districts are complicit in the oppression of students of color by ignoring the issue of biased student discipline. Researchers faced roadblocks and resistance from district administrators who viewed their efforts as a threat.
A new study suggests that the standard 30-day hospital readmission metric fails to accurately reflect changing risk factors. Researchers found that early readmissions (0-7 days post discharge) were associated with acute illness markers, while late readmissions (8-30 days post discharge) were more closely tied to chronic illness burden.
A study of 3.8 million pregnancies found a possible association between antidepressant use and persistent pulmonary hypertension of the newborn, but the absolute risk was small. The risk increase appears more modest than previously reported, with SSRI use linked to a slightly higher risk.
The researchers developed a novel ultra-compact heterogeneous wavelength tunable laser diode using silicon photonics and quantum-dot technology, achieving a wide-range tuning operation of around 1250 nm wavelength with an ultra-small device footprint. The obtained frequency tuning-range of 8.8 THz is a world record for QD and silicon p...
Current practice of testing athletes at rest may miss signs of right ventricular dysfunction that can lead to sudden death. A new study shows that exercise echocardiography can detect changes in the right ventricle's functioning during physical activity, providing a potential diagnostic tool for cardiologists managing athletes.