Invasive earthworms in New England's forests are bioaccumulating high levels of toxic metals, including lead and mercury, which may harm birds, amphibians, and mammals that feed on them. The Dartmouth-led study found similar situations in forests across the northeastern United States.
A new large study finds that women who are diagnosed with breast cancer and have a family history of the disease face no worse of a prognosis after treatment than other women with breast cancer. Successful treatment for breast cancer is just as likely in young patients with a family history of breast cancer, as in those without.
A new technique uses high-energy alpha particles to transform thermoelectric materials into more efficient versions, even improving electrical conductivity and thermopower. The research could lead to significant advancements in clean energy and device cooling applications.
A NIH-funded study suggests that the presence of companion animals may reduce social anxiety in children with autism. Children with ASDs showed lower skin conductance levels when interacting with peers and companion animals compared to typically developing children.
A US forest service research team has released bats treated for White-nose Syndrome (WNS), a deadly fungus that has killed an estimated 5-6 million bats. The treatment, developed with native soil bacteria, showed promising results in field trials and could potentially reduce mortality of bats affected by the disease.
Researchers have discovered a promising new treatment for Ebola by screening compounds from existing malaria and flu drugs. The treatment showed a high success rate of up to 90% in treating infected mice with no observable side effects.
A recent study published in Computers in Human Behavior suggests that individuals have a crucial role in protecting their own data from cyber threats. Researchers at Michigan State University found that those who acknowledged the importance of personal responsibility were more likely to be motivated to learn and implement safety measures.
Using supercomputer simulations, astronomers observed a flash of light caused by a supernova slamming into a nearby star, determining the stellar system from which it was born. This finding confirms one of two competing theories about the birth of Type Ia supernovae and suggests two distinct populations of these objects.
The University of Texas at Arlington educator Alexa Smith-Osborne has received a $200,000 grant to enhance mental health awareness in African-American faith-based communities. The initiative aims to reduce stigma and improve healthcare access, addressing the disproportionately high rates of psychological distress among Black Americans.
An investigation by The BMJ found that 38 MPs have accepted over £60,000 worth of tobacco industry hospitality since 2010. More than half of these MPs are from constituencies with higher rates of smoking-related deaths. The study also revealed that 20 of the 38 who had accepted industry hospitality voted against plain packaging.
A recent study published in Preventive Medicine found that growing up in a home with a regular smoker nearly doubled the chances of becoming an adult smoker among Hispanics. The study, which looked at data from over 13,000 adults, also found that childhood exposure to household smoking was strongest for Cubans and Puerto Ricans.
The discovery of a partial left femur from a theropod dinosaur in Washington state provides valuable insights into the region's Late Cretaceous period. The fossil is approximately 80 million years old and is believed to have belonged to a smaller than T. rex species, with characteristics unique to theropods during that time.
Researchers have designed a nanoparticle-based therapy that effectively treats mice with multiple myeloma, a cancer of immune cells in the bone marrow. The nanoparticles carry a Myc inhibitor, which blocks a protein active in many types of cancer, and increase survival by 23 days compared to control groups.
A study comparing OCT and IVUS guidance found that OCT-guided stents had greater in-segment percent diameter stenosis but similar major edge dissection and malapposition rates compared to IVUS-guidance. The results suggest that OCT-guidance is a viable alternative to IVUS for guiding percutaneous coronary interventions.
A study published in PLOS ONE found that moderate caffeine consumption is associated with lower rates of erectile dysfunction. Men who consumed 85-170mg or 171-303mg of caffeine per day were 42% and 39% less likely to report ED, respectively, compared to those who drank zero to seven milligrams.
Dr. Ferdinand Kiemeneij and Dr. Shigeru Saito received the Ethica Award for their roles in developing and teaching the radial approach to coronary catheterization. They are internationally renowned for their contributions to interventional medicine, patient comfort, and quality of life.
Researchers successfully demonstrated cream separation from natural whole milk at liter-scales using ultrasonic standing waves, achieving fractionation outcomes desired for a particular dairy product. The technique allows for high volume throughputs of up to 30 liters per hour and can be used to specifically select milk fat globules of...
Researchers found that a sublethal dose of imidacloprid significantly weakens termites' ability to fight off fungal diseases by knocking out key microbes in the termite gut and suppressing social hygiene habits. This combination wiped out laboratory colonies in just seven days.
A recent study presented at EuroPCR 2015 found that routine thrombectomy during angioplasty for acute myocardial infarction may increase the risk of stroke. The TOTAL trial showed a significant increase in stroke rates within 30 days, with the highest risk period being within 48 hours.
A new study from the University of Chicago Booth School of Business failed to replicate earlier research suggesting a connection between ovulation and racial bias. The researchers tested various social groups, including elderly men, physically disabled men, and gay men, but found no evidence of an association.
Researchers at Sandia National Laboratories have made the first measurements of thermoelectric behavior in a nanoporous metal-organic framework (MOF), a discovery that could lead to more efficient cooling and energy harvesting applications. The material, known as TCNQ@MOF, exhibits high Seebeck coefficient and low thermal conductivity.
A new class of medications could prevent joint damage and provide relief to patients who don't respond to available treatments. The novel drug target, RPTPσ, inhibits the aggressive invasion of synoviocytes into joint cartilage by acting as an inhibitory signal.
A pilot study using the PINNACLE India Quality Improvement Program registry shows that high-quality outpatient cardiovascular care can be achieved in resource-limited environments like India. The registry collected data from 68,196 patients with coronary artery disease, heart failure, and atrial fibrillation, highlighting areas for imp...
The University of South Florida has been named an I-Corps Site by the National Science Foundation, receiving nearly $300,000 to build and mentor teams of USF faculty and students to become successful entrepreneurs. The goal is to launch multiple successful start-up companies over the next three years.
Astronomers captured the early stages of three type 1a supernovae using the Kepler space telescope, revealing initial shockwaves differed from expected patterns. The findings suggest an alternative hypothesis for supernova ignition, contradicting long-held theories about these explosive events.
The discovery of a 16.7-inch-long, 8.7-inch-wide theropod dinosaur femur from the Late Cretaceous period is the first dinosaur fossil found in Washington State. The fossil is approximately 80 million years old and provides insight into the West Coast's dinosaur record.
Noise levels during pile driving could damage harbour seals' hearing, with half of tagged seals exposed to damaging levels. The study used GPS data loggers and models revealed the impact on the UK's marine life.
Researchers have developed a prototype of a dynamic sonar system inspired by horseshoe bats, which could lead to more effective man-made sonar systems. The system uses principles similar to those used by bats to navigate and hunt in the dark.
A Phase III study has shown an overall cure rate of 94% for patients with a liver transplant and returning hepatitis C, and 83% for patients with advanced cirrhosis. The FDA has granted Breakthrough Therapy Designation for the investigational combination, clearing the way for expedited drug development.
Scientists have discovered that injecting tiny grains of lithium into a plasma can dramatically improve its temperature and pressure, doubling the pressure at the outer edge and increasing the length of time it remains high. This breakthrough could lead to more efficient fusion reactions and potentially shorten the development timeline.
Researchers analyzed DNA of over 250 tree species in southern Appalachians and found that half can trace their ancestry to eastern Asia. The temperate forests of the region are home to more tree species than anywhere else in North America.
Researchers at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital have created a second-generation antibiotic that effectively combats common bacterial infections resistant to commonly used antibiotics. The spectinomycin analogs block the growth of strains and demonstrate increased antibacterial activity against various pathogens.
Researchers found that almost 83% of participants regained mobility after six months with home exercise and support, compared to 36.4%. Home-based walking programs can help prevent mobility loss in patients with clogged leg arteries.
Researchers found strong association between hospital admissions and progression of disability among older adults during last year of life. Hospitalizations were a key predictor of mortality and disability severity among these patients.
A traditional Chinese medicine herbal mixture called Ren Shen Yangrong Tang (RSYRT) significantly reduced fatigue in cancer patients with moderate to severe symptoms. In a Phase I/II trial, RSYRT was found to be safe and effective in improving Qi deficiency, a key factor contributing to fatigue.
New research from the Palomar Transient Factory team provides evidence supporting the single degenerate channel theory for type Ia supernovae. The strong UV pulse detected in iPTF14atg indicates a collision between material ejected from the supernova and its companion star.
In a small clinical trial, researchers safely used immune cells grown from patients' own bone marrow to treat multiple myeloma. Thirteen of 22 patients experienced partial responses, with seven achieving at least 90% tumor cell reduction and living up to 25.1 months without cancer progression.
Scientists have created unexpected shapes of mesoscale atoms using a new method for precise control over placement of tiny segments of liquid. The discovery enhances the ability to form new structures, opening possibilities for innovative microfluidic systems.
A University of Huddersfield professor has been granted a Newton Research Collaboration Award to develop a Dynamic Behaviour Model (DBM) that accurately predicts the energy usage of non-domestic buildings. The model will take into account various factors, including occupancy level and equipment use, to make a more realistic prediction.
Researchers have discovered a novel antibody insecticide that targets the African malaria mosquito, offering an alternative control strategy to halt the spread of the disease. The antibodies work by targeting a key component of the mosquito's nervous system, killing over 90% of infected insects within a day.
A new study by University of Georgia researchers shows that CEOs have a substantial influence on company performance, accounting for around 25% of profits. This increased impact is attributed to advancements in technology and changes in compensation packages, which provide strong incentives for CEOs to make strategic decisions.
A University of Kansas researcher found that strong corporate culture among employees is only important if the business faces strong pressure from the outside to be successful. Firms like Whole Foods and Apple thrived on competition, while companies with large employee turnover struggled.
Extra-Tropical Storm Dolphin is moving northeast towards the Sea of Okhotsk, interacting with westerlies that pushed clouds and showers east of its center. The storm has weakened, but still retains hurricane-force winds and is expected to turn northwards, passing south of Russia's Kamchatka Peninsula.
A study published in The Gerontologist found that consuming chamomile tea was associated with a 29% decreased risk of death from all causes among older Mexican-American women, compared to non-users. This effect was not observed in men.
A study of Colorado local government organizations found that only 87% had sun-safety policies, with few addressing environmental controls and administrative procedures. Most employers failed to provide sun-protection equipment or training, leaving workers vulnerable to UV radiation.
The Scripps Proton Therapy Center in San Diego is reporting exceptional results in delivering cancer treatment using pencil-beam scanning technology, enabling the treatment of a wide range of tumor sites. The center has treated patients with lung, brain, spinal column, and other tumors, offering greater precision and efficiency in radi...
A recent study published by Rice University researchers found that individuals generally prefer to locate their sense of self in the brain. This preference is stronger among those with an independent self-construal, who tend to assert autonomous goals and behaviors related to the brain. In contrast, people with an interdependent self-c...
Research by University of Sheffield scientists links Arctic warming to extreme weather events in the UK and US, suggesting a connection between warmer Arctic temperatures and mid-latitude weather patterns. The study found increased variability in the jet stream and high pressure over Greenland, contributing to variable UK winters.
The Wistar Institute has secured a $5.6 million grant renewal from the Wellcome Trust to further develop cancer drugs targeting Epstein-Barr virus (EBV). The goal is to create a therapeutic that can treat EBV-related cancers by attacking the virus as it remains dormant in patient cells.
People with metabolic syndrome face a higher risk of cardiovascular death than those without the condition. The study found that having diabetes or high blood pressure significantly elevates this risk. Women with metabolic syndrome were also at a greater risk of death from any cause compared to their male counterparts.
A global study involving 6,902 university students found that Einstein and Mandela are consistently ranked as heroes, while Hitler is often considered the worst villain across cultures. The results highlight varying opinions on historical figures and events, reflecting cultural differences in perception.
A new study by University of Gothenburg researchers shows that species migration across the Isthmus of Panama began about 20 million years ago, contradicting previous assumptions. This early exchange enhanced the region's extreme biodiversity.
Australian scientists are part of the Advanced LIGO project aiming to find gravitational waves, ripples in space-time caused by violent cosmic events. The technology requires high sensitivity and precision, pushing the limits of components like low-noise detectors and high-power lasers.
In a study of mountain gorillas, researchers found that females avoid mating with their fathers to curb inbreeding. On average, seven out of ten offspring in groups with multiple males are sired by the dominant male, but none of his daughters' offspring
Researchers at Michigan State University found that children who stutter have difficulty perceiving a beat in music-like rhythms, which may account for their halting speech patterns. This study has implications for treating stuttering and suggests that improving beat perception in children could lead to improved fluency in speech.
In a study published in ETH Zurich, researchers discovered that the microRNA-200 family triggers the death of beta cells, leading to type 2 diabetes. By blocking miR-200 production, scientists can guarantee the survival of these vital cells. This finding has significant implications for the development of new treatments for diabetes.
The ASGE Foundation presented various awards to recognize outstanding contributions to the field of gastroenterology and endoscopy. The awards included Rudolf V. Schindler Award, Distinguished Service Awards, and Master Endoscopist Award among others.
A new study published in Obstetrics & Gynecology found that women born preterm have a significantly higher risk of giving birth to preterm children. Researchers analyzed data from over 7,400 Quebec women born preterm and compared it to women born at term, revealing a 13% difference in preterm delivery rates.
A study published in JAMA Network found that nearly 35 percent of all U.S. adults and 50 percent of those 60 years or older had metabolic syndrome in 2011-2012. The condition is characterized by a combination of health conditions including obesity, high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, and poor lipid profiles.
Researchers found significant similarities between oxytocin and alcohol's behavioral effects, including increased aggression and risk-taking. This study highlights the darker side of oxytocin, which can suppress social inhibitors like fear and anxiety, leading to more impulsive decisions.