A study found that defined-contribution retirement plans increase socioeconomic factors like education and income levels on pension savings, creating an income and education gap. Less educated people save an average of 26% less annually than those with higher education, which could exacerbate future economic inequality.
Researchers at the University of Washington extended the lives of middle-aged mice by up to 60% with a brief rapamycin treatment. The study also highlights the need to understand how dose and gender influence side effects, revealing potential benefits for humans, particularly older adults.
A new study found no clear common characteristic of microbe populations in obese individuals, disappointing those hoping for a solution to weight loss through gut bacteria alteration. The researchers suggest that a more complex relationship exists between the microbiome and health, warranting further investigation.
A team of researchers from the University of Oxford suggests that life on Earth is more likely to exist in the future than it is now. This is because the necessary elements for life, such as carbon and oxygen, took tens of millions of years to develop following the Big Bang.
A new study found that high-magnitude head impacts in youth football are more common during practice sessions than games. Researchers identified specific tackling drills as contributing to these high-impact incidents and suggest reducing their duration to lower injury risks.
Researchers found that certain essential oil compounds reduce inflammation in human cells damaged by fine particle air pollutants. The compounds, including trans-anethole and eugenol, decreased cytokine levels by up to 96%.
Researchers at University of Colorado Anschutz developed a technique to estimate patient adherence to antiretroviral drugs. The test measures traces of PrEP medicine in dried blood samples, providing an objective way to determine consistent use.
Researchers investigate the link between diet, obesity-linked Type 2 diabetes, and intervertebral disc degeneration. They suspect that a diet high in processed fats and sugars causes inflammation and modification of disc tissue, leading to degeneration.
A global analysis reveals one-sixth of Earth's land is vulnerable to invasive species, with most countries having limited capacity to respond. Developed countries will face new invaders due to climate change and globalization.
Researchers at Tokyo Medical and Dental University have successfully stimulated local bone augmentation in mice jawbones using a protein/peptide combination carried by an injectable gel carrier. The study demonstrates the potential for non-surgical treatment of alveolar bone loss, which may lead to tooth loss.
Scientists have identified a mechanism that alters neural excitability, a key factor in diseases such as epilepsy, depression, and drug addiction. The discovery provides insight into these conditions and may offer a potential therapeutic target.
Researchers at UCLA have discovered that MRI scans can detect the shrinkage of key brain regions in individuals with cognitive problems, similar to those seen in CTE cases confirmed by autopsy. This finding raises the possibility of using MRI scans to diagnose CTE in living patients.
A study of nearly 3,400 military veterans over 10 years found that those who misused opioid painkillers had a very high likelihood of also beginning to use heroin. Non-medical use of prescription painkillers was the biggest predictor of heroin use.
A pair of lab experiments by Cornell University researchers found that happy music increases cooperative behavior among team members. Contributions to the group's value were approximately one-third higher when upbeat songs were played compared to less pleasant music.
A study published in the American Journal of Public Health found that stand-biased desks can lower BMI in elementary school children, with a three percent drop on average. The intervention was shown to be effective across demographic groups, regardless of age, gender, or race.
A recent study found that a UB-developed smartphone app can improve antiretroviral therapy adherence among people living with HIV. Participants reported high compliance with daily report completion, citing the app's ease of use and text reminders as key factors.
Researchers have found fossilized whale skeletons in the Ica Desert of Peru, providing insights into the Miocene whale feeding habits. The discovery also reveals exceptional microstructure preservation, allowing for the study of fossilized baleen bristles at a submillimetric scale.
Tropical Storm Gaston formed in the northeastern Atlantic Ocean after a low-pressure area organized into a depression on August 22. By August 23, the system strengthened into a tropical storm with maximum sustained winds of near 50 mph and higher gusts.
Coral larvae can't survive long enough to cross the Pacific Ocean due to changing ocean currents, supporting Darwin's opinion of an impassable barrier. The study highlights the importance of local conservation for remote and poorly-protected coral reefs.
A new class of fuel cells based on ion-pair-coordinated polymers can operate between 80°C and 200°C with water tolerance, enhancing usability in various conditions. The research breakthrough has the potential to accelerate commercialization of low-cost fuel cells for automotive and stationary applications.
Researchers developed a multivariate approach to improve cognitive testing for Alzheimer's disease, identifying five distinct patient groups. The model suggests that multivitamins may slow progression only in certain groups, particularly those with mild impairment in recalling.
A study by University of Illinois researchers found that guaranteed-tuition laws are making higher education more costly and possibly unaffordable for some students. Public colleges and universities in states with such laws have increased mandatory student fees and out-of-state tuition rates.
Hydrogen sulfide superconductor exhibits two phases: cubic and hexagonal. Researchers' findings mark significant step towards room-temperature superconductors.
Tropical Depression Fiona has weakened into a post-tropical depression, with maximum sustained winds decreased to near 30 mph. The low pressure area is expected to move northwestward and then westward, gradually weakening over the next couple of days.
A team of scientists used a state-of-the-art computer model to test Charles Darwin's hypothesis that marine species cannot cross the Eastern Pacific's 'impassable' marine barrier. The study found that even under extreme El Niño conditions, coral larvae could not survive long enough to make the trip across the ocean.
Researchers found that Zika virus congenital infection causes a range of brain malformations, including cortical malformations and ventriculomegaly. The study used CT, MRI, and ultrasound to assess pregnant women, fetuses, and newborns infected with the virus.
Researchers at Carnegie Mellon University have developed non-toxic, edible batteries using melanin pigments that can power low-power, repeat applications like drug-delivery devices. The batteries can be used to diagnose and treat diseases with minimal toxicity.
A mathematical model developed at TU Wien found that the Mayans' irrigation technology may have contributed to their collapse. The study suggests that while water reservoirs can provide relief during droughts, they may also make populations more vulnerable during prolonged dry spells.
Two studies explore the use of genetic tests to identify bacterial infections in children with fever. Researchers identified specific host genes that distinguish bacterial from viral infections, and found that these signatures can be used to diagnose bacterial infections. The study has potential for a clinically applicable test using c...
A Penn State researcher found that pregnant women use a dual self-image to cope with the physical and emotional changes of pregnancy. They differentiate between their pre-pregnancy body weight and 'baby weight,' allowing them to maintain a positive body image during this time.
New research reveals that blue-winged and golden-winged warblers are almost identical genetically, with only six regions showing strong differences. The study suggests that conservation efforts should focus on preserving habitat for both species rather than worrying about hybridization.
A study by Krysti Ryan explores the journeys of parents who are supporting their transgender or gender-diverse children. Mothers play a central role as advocates for their children, often becoming experts on gender diversity and reinforcing traditional gender stereotypes.
A randomized trial found that IVF culture media affect embryo quality, implantation rates, pregnancy rates, and birthweights. The study suggests that the exact composition of culture media should be listed to ensure transparency.
A study published in Nature Communications reveals that human activities have expanded at a slower rate than population and economic growth, but still have extensive environmental impacts. The research found that three-quarters of the planet is significantly altered and 97% of species-rich regions are seriously altered.
The NSF has awarded $110 million to the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and 18 partner institutions to continue and expand activities through XSEDE. XSEDE will maintain existing services, add innovative elements, and support diverse scientific and engineering challenges.
Australian and Belgian medical scientists have discovered a way to improve fertility treatment without the need for hormone drugs, enhancing IVM to increase embryo yield by 50% while reducing discomfort and cost. The new technique aims to restore natural egg maturation processes using potent growth factors.
Researchers discovered highly diverse bacterial populations in raw milk arriving at dairy facilities, with a core microbiota of 29 taxa. The study found that processing facility environment influences microbial composition, leading to spoilage issues or defects in products like cheese.
The systematic review concludes that fixed or age-dependent thresholds are more effective in identifying individuals at high risk of fracture than the use of bone mineral density (BMD) values alone. However, intervention thresholds must be country-specific, according to the report.
A new NIH-funded study aims to understand individual vulnerabilities to drug addiction by studying genes that influence brain function. The research team will use mouse models to identify specific genes and pathways contributing to poor self-control and associated addiction risk.
A new, tiny species of extinct Australian marsupial lion has been named Microleo attenboroughi, weighing only about 600 grams. It shared its ancient rainforest community with two larger species of marsupial lions, suggesting it may have specialised on a different size range of prey.
A longitudinal study found that children and adolescents with traumatic brain injury (TBI) experience reduced longevity and significant psychosocial problems in adulthood. The study compared TBI cases to unaffected siblings, revealing strong associations between TBI severity, recurrence, and older age at first injury.
Researchers aim to understand the genetics and underlying biological mechanisms that lead to IPF. They will analyze genetic information on over 1,200 families to identify new genes causing the disease.
A study found that aquatic treadmill walking improved aerobic capacity and functional recovery in patients recovering from a stroke. The exercise also had psychological benefits due to reduced musculoskeletal impact and freedom from fear of falling.
A recent study published in Diabetes Care journal reveals a significant rise in diabetes-related vision loss worldwide. The 20-year period saw a 64% increase in people with moderate or severe vision impairment due to diabetes, primarily attributed to poor glucose control and limited access to eye health services.
Researchers at Penn State College of Medicine developed a new care plan for managing septic perianal Crohn's disease, which combines medical and surgical treatments. The plan resulted in a 60% healing rate among patients, with half requiring permanent ostomy bags while the other half saw some improvement but did not heal completely.
A new study by Dr. Georgina King and her team has disproved the idea that surface processes control tectonic deformation in the eastern Himalayas. The research reveals that changing tectonics, rather than climate, drives erosion rates in this region.
Researchers have developed a small device that can detect the initial signal of an epileptic attack and release a substance to stop it, all in the same area as the signal arises. This technology has the potential to revolutionize the treatment of neurological illnesses such as epilepsy and Parkinson's disease.
Scientists have identified two genes that are switched on only when a child is suffering from a bacterial infection. A rapid test based on these genes has been developed to diagnose bacterial infections, which could help combat antibiotic resistance and save lives.
A new tropical depression has formed north of Guam, prompting a tropical storm warning for nearby islands. The depression is expected to track northward, bringing strong winds and heavy rainfall to the area.
Researchers in Delaware are using geo-mapping to identify neighborhoods with high rates of fentanyl and opiate prescriptions, finding that women and people over 50 years old are prescribed these medications at higher rates than men. These 'hot spots' tend to be rural areas, suggesting a shift away from the urban drug problem narrative.
New research finds that taking breaks to sleep between study sessions can improve recall of previously learned information, allowing participants to relearn faster and retain what they've forgotten for longer periods. The study showed significant benefits in memory retention even after 6 months.
Researchers have mapped estimated internal migration in Africa, Asia, and Latin America, providing vital data for combating infectious diseases like malaria. The maps show webs of connectivity within countries, aiding effective disease control planning and resource targeting.
Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center developed a novel MRI method that can detect low levels of zinc ions to differentiate between healthy and malignant prostate tissue. This technique has the potential to serve as a biomarker for tracking prostate cancer progression.
A new study reveals that many stroke patients are unaware they're having a stroke, leading to delayed medical attention. The study found nearly one-third presented with eye symptoms, suggesting the need for a revised public campaign acronym.
A UCI-led study found novel molecular clues behind nocturnal behavior, suggesting the eyes play a more central role in controlling the sleep/awake cycle. The research challenges the long-presumed master role of the suprachiasmatic clock in determining sleep and wakefulness patterns.
A Johns Hopkins study of over 13,000 participants found that severe obesity is a standalone high-risk factor for heart failure, but not other types of heart disease. Morbidly obese individuals were nearly fourfold more likely to develop heart failure even after controlling for risk factors such as high blood pressure and diabetes.
Researchers found that esophageal cancer cells do not divide faster than their normal neighbors, but instead produce slightly more dividing daughter cells. This imbalance in cell division can lead to tumor growth over time, making it harder to treat with current therapies.
A new study by researchers at the University of California-Davis found that nearly 40 percent of low-wage workers worked variable hours for at least one four-month period after the start of the 2007-09 Great Recession. Workers with inconsistent work schedules earned less and were more likely to live in poverty than those with stable ho...
A recent study found that over three-quarters of patients were exposed to at least one non-opiate drug associated with increased fracture risk before their fracture. The researchers suggest that better management of these high-risk drugs may help prevent secondary fragility fractures in the elderly population.
Washington State University researchers create a novel nanomaterial, an aerogel, to reduce the amount of precious metals required in fuel cells. This innovation speeds up production time and makes large-scale production more viable.