Scientists have developed a hybrid solar-energy system that harnesses the full spectrum of sunlight by pairing a photovoltaic cell with polymer films. The system produces a voltage over 20% higher than other hybrid systems and can operate an LED lamp and electrochromic display.
Researchers at New York University and Stanford University have discovered a magnetic wave, known as a soliton, which can maintain its shape as it moves and potentially be harnessed for more energy-efficient computing. The discovery was made using an ultrafast x-ray microscope that enables high spatial resolution and temporal resolution.
Research suggests a treatment that boosts the immune system could improve liver failure treatment outcomes. The therapy uses an immune-boosting molecule called CSF-1 to trigger natural defence mechanisms in the liver.
Typhoon Kilo is a Category 1 hurricane with sustained winds near 75 mph, according to NASA's RapidScat data. The storm is moving northwest and is expected to transition to an extra-tropical storm as it moves into the Sea of Okhotsk.
The American Society for Radiation Oncology (ASTRO) has awarded a total of $33,500 to 41 researchers for their outstanding contributions to the field of radiation oncology. The awards recognize top-rated abstracts presented at the 2015 Annual Meeting, with recipients receiving cash honors and complimentary registration.
A new study found that virtually all the water entering the Wabash River in Indiana is withdrawn and returned, highlighting a pressing need for improved understanding of water use. The research suggests that reusing wastewater for irrigation may be detrimental to rivers.
A team of researchers at the University of Kansas has identified a potential neuroprotective mechanism for Alzheimer's disease, focusing on the ApoE2 gene. The study suggests that ApoE2 carriers may be resistant to Alzheimer's disease due to enhanced brain energy metabolism.
Researchers found that external brain stimulation, specifically transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS), can compensate for the loss of dopamine in people with Parkinson's disease by decreasing the effort the brain has to put into getting its motor neurons to fire. This correction improves some patients' motor symptoms.
Researchers found that luteolin can inhibit growth of human breast cancer cells and reduce blood vessel formation, a promising alternative for postmenopausal women at increased risk. The study suggests luteolin may be effective in reducing breast cancer risk when administered through IV supplements.
Researchers found changes in brain representation for affected muscles due to nerve damage caused by leprosy, indicating evidence of brain plasticity. The study may lead to new treatment strategies for individuals suffering from this ancient disease.
A new Ebola test using magnetic nanoparticles is 100 times more sensitive than current tests and easier to use, enabling faster isolation of patients and prevention of disease spread. This technology has potential applications in diagnosing other infectious diseases like flu and detecting tumors.
Researchers found that human umbilical cord blood-derived monocytes improved hippocampal-dependent learning, memory, and motor function in AD modeled mice. The study suggests that these cells may exert therapeutic effects through phagocytosis of dead cells and cellular debris.
A study from UCL and Oxford University found that US NFL fans and sports reporters have unrealistic expectations about their team's performance. The average number of wins predicted by fans was 9.59, while expert predictions were no better than a naive forecasting model.
A recent study by Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center found that preschool-age children consume more calories and fewer fruits, vegetables, and milk outside of child-care centers. The study suggests excess calorie consumption away from the center is significantly associated with being overweight.
The university will conduct critical defense research, including designing and developing next-generation armor and high-velocity sprayed materials for military equipment. The $20.4 million agreement will support 30 research projects over three years.
Researchers from the University of Southampton have identified easy-to-use techniques to configure IoT devices, making them more secure. Two interaction techniques were found to be noticeably more usable than others, including audio cable and Wi-Fi-only interactions.
A new study reveals that high-intensity intermittent exercise training improves heart structure and benefits diabetes control in patients with type 2 diabetes. The study showed significant improvements in cardiac structure and function, particularly in the left ventricle, and a modest improvement in diabetes control.
Researchers have discovered a novel epigenetic mechanism that causes the mantled phenotype in oil palms, resulting in reduced oil yields and sterility. A leaf-based test can predict the mantling phenotype at an early stage, enabling the exclusive cultivation of high-performing clonal palms.
A University of New Hampshire scientist has discovered a promising target for combating plant parasitic nematodes, which cause significant crop damage worldwide. The phosphodiesterase enzyme (PDE) inhibitor compound may provide a safer alternative to traditional chemical pesticides.
A multiple myeloma patient experienced complete remission after receiving a personalized cellular therapy called CTL019, which targets cancerous white blood cells. The treatment was combined with chemotherapy and an autologous stem cell transplant, and the patient remains in remission over 12 months after infusion.
Researchers will investigate three projects: one on menopausal symptoms, another on biological activity of botanicals, and a third on interactions with prescription drugs. The goal is to determine the safety and efficacy of botanical dietary supplements as alternatives to hormone therapy.
A study by University of Texas at El Paso researchers found that 61% of kissing bugs in west Texas are infected with the Trypanosoma cruzi parasite, which causes Chagas disease. The disease can lead to life-threatening symptoms like heart rhythm abnormalities and difficult eating or passing stool.
A study published in JAMA Surgery found that postoperative delirium significantly increases adverse outcomes in older adults, including prolonged hospital stays and institutional discharge. Delirium alone exerts the highest risk of adverse outcomes at the population level compared to other major surgical complications.
Researchers have discovered that the dengue virus NS1 protein acts as a toxin, similar to bacterial cell wall products. This finding allows them to re-purpose existing drugs for a potential dengue treatment.
A Stanford-led study finds that pipeline replacement programs can significantly reduce natural gas leaks, with cities like Durham and Cincinnati showing a 90% decrease. This improvement is attributed to public-private partnerships, which have upgraded the city's infrastructure.
Researchers found diminished interaction among cytokines in people who later developed tumors five years before diagnosis. This suggests the tumor is suppressing local immune activation, allowing it to grow.
A major European study has identified key characteristics of severe asthma, which will help develop new treatments. Patients with severe asthma experience daily symptoms despite high doses of treatment and are more likely to be hospitalized.
New research suggests offering financial incentives for farming industries to mitigate environmental impact has a positive effect on greenhouse gas reduction and increased biodiversity. However, the study finds that current agriculture funding models are 'perverse subsidies,' promoting negative actions in both the long and short term.
Researchers analyzed public reaction to Sherman's remarks, finding that professional media defended him while most Twitter commenters denounced his comments using negative racial connotations. The study highlights the need for awareness of stereotypes to prevent harmful responses.
A new study by Baylor University researchers reveals that taking mid-morning breaks is more beneficial than traditional afternoon breaks for boosting energy, concentration, and motivation. The research also suggests that preferred break activities, such as work-related tasks, are key to restful recovery and improved job satisfaction.
A new study by NYU Langone Health has found that the presence or absence of dueling toxins in Staphylococcus aureus bacteria explains why hospital-acquired MRSA is more deadly than community-acquired forms. The study reveals a key toxin that counteracts another, more deadly toxin, opening up possible new pathways for vaccine development.
NASA-NOAA satellites confirmed Tropical Storm Grace had weakened into an open wave of low pressure, with wind data from RapidScat confirming the degeneration. The remnants are moving westward near 18 mph and expected to produce gusty winds and showers over the Lesser Antilles.
The Harvard Review of Psychiatry presents a timely update on new trends and developments in geriatric psychiatry. The special issue discusses policy changes, new diagnostic classifications, and research driving change in mental health care for older adults.
A UTSA computer science professor has received a Department of Army grant to create an image searching algorithm for combing through large amounts of surveillance videos. The goal is to identify individuals more quickly, especially in crowded and hectic situations like the Boston Marathon bombing.
Research found a strong association between low resting heart rate and an increased risk of violent criminality in men. Men with the lowest resting heart rates were more likely to be convicted of violent crimes, with a 39% higher chance compared to those with the highest rates.
A Pitt researcher used gene regulatory networks to uncover the origins of a recently evolved structure in male fruit flies, finding that it was created by reusing existing networks during development. This discovery sheds light on how complex animal forms arose and challenges the idea that new structures must be encoded by new genes.
Children's Cancer Institute Australia has been awarded close to $2 million to test new drugs in preclinical models of acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL) under the Pediatric Preclinical Testing Consortium (PPTC). The PPTC will facilitate the acceleration of effective drugs into clinical trials.
A new study reveals countries with higher per-capita CO2 emissions, like the US and Russia, have accumulated large carbon debts. India is the largest creditor, while Brazil and Indonesia switch from being creditors to debtors due to deforestation and agriculture.
A new study of DCD liver transplantations found no significant correlation between donor age and organ survival. The results suggest that stringent donor and recipient selection can help expand the donor pool for life-saving liver transplantation, making aged DCD organs more viable.
Researchers found nearly 10 times more faint, early galaxies than previously detected in deep Hubble surveys. They used a new statistical method to parse out signals from noise in the images.
Tropical Storm Fred formed in the Eastern Atlantic and was tracked by NASA's Global Hawk. The storm weakened quickly under adverse atmospheric conditions, eventually losing its tropical cyclone status.
Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh have developed a new method for identifying pathogens using spectroscopy and protein hydrogels. This technique allows for rapid detection and identification of specific pathogens, enabling targeted antibiotic treatment and reducing the risk of misdiagnosis. The broader implications of this wo...
A new study published in Marine and Petroleum Geology has established a national baseline for earthquakes caused by human activity in the UK. Since 1999, an average of at least three onshore earthquakes per year with local magnitude greater than or equal to 1.5 have been linked to anthropogenic activities.
The American Academy of Otolaryngology will feature over 380 oral and poster presentations on various otolaryngic topics. Key findings include research on depression after hearing loss treatment and the correlation between pediatric sleep endoscopy and polysomnography.
Researchers identify two gold belts in the NCC, with gold mineralization linked to mantle-derived melts and fluids. The discovery of decratonic gold deposits has significant implications for understanding gold formation and exploring new large gold concentrations.
A nationwide study found that e-cigarette users are more likely to start smoking traditional cigarettes within a year compared to non-users. The study suggests that e-cigarettes deliver nicotine slowly, mimicking the act of smoking and making it easier for young people to transition to traditional cigarettes.
A new review presents a patient-specific plan to predict blood loss and address it, highlighting the commonality of anemia in surgical practice. The approach relies on detecting and treating anemia before surgery, reducing blood loss during surgery, and optimizing management after surgery.
Researchers examine differences between Southern California's summer and Santa Ana fires, which exhibit split personalities due to climate-driven conditions. Climate change increases the risk of both fire types, with non-Santa-Ana summer fires becoming more prevalent.
Researchers analyzed data from Australia's 2006-2007 wildfires and found exposure to wildfire smoke was associated with increased hospital emergency department visits for asthma. Fine particulates in wildfire smoke are easily inhaled and remain deep in the lungs, causing harmful health effects.
Forensic examiners can use blood or teeth samples to estimate an individual's age with great accuracy, helping track down criminals or identify human remains. Researchers at KU Leuven developed a test based on four age-associated DNA methylation markers, achieving margins of error of 3.75 years for blood and 4.86 years for teeth.
Researchers at UC San Francisco show that early humans' tool use led to changes in their shoulders, which helped the emergence of human-specific traits like high-speed throwing. The study's findings suggest that the common ancestor of modern humans and African apes looked more like a chimp or gorilla.
A study by UC San Francisco researchers found that privately insured pregnant women with 24-hour OB coverage and midwife care had lower C-section rates compared to those with traditional care. The study, which tracked data from 2011-2014, showed a significant decrease in C-sections among these patients.
A new study from NIMBioS reveals that contact rates and competition play crucial roles in determining the risk of parasitic disease outbreaks in animal communities. The research found that high contact rates and strong competition can amplify parasite fitness, increasing the likelihood of disease transmission.
A Tel Aviv University study found that even benign forms of incivility can impede medical personnel's ability to perform under pressure. Rudeness is linked to poorer diagnostic and procedural performance, as well as reduced information-sharing among medical staff.
A Kaiser Permanente study found that introducing electronic order entry and care-decision support in emergency departments led to a significant increase in the timely administration of clot-dissolving treatments for patients with acute ischemic stroke. The technology helped minimize errors while improving patient outcomes.
Researchers at UW's I-LABS study body maps in infant brain, finding they develop early and relate to social connections and imitation. The findings shed light on how infants build sense of self and connect with others.
Women with arthritis face a 87% higher risk of multidimensional poverty compared to nonarthritic females. Arthritis also affects men, increasing their poverty risk by 22% and 29% for multidimensional poverty, respectively.
A new Canadian-developed rule will help emergency department physicians determine when to use radiography in young children with minor head injuries. The rule identifies children under 2 months old or those with parietal or occipital swelling as high-risk, warranting a skull radiograph.
Scientists have successfully reversed an animal's behavior by altering a single synapse in its neural network. This groundbreaking study provides new insights into the stability of neural circuits and their role in controlling behavior.
The UK's largest breast cancer physiotherapy trial, PROSPER, will investigate the impact of physiotherapy on women after breast cancer surgery. The study aims to inform national guidelines and improve treatment outcomes for women experiencing shoulder problems and chronic pain after their treatment.