A study of patients who died at VA hospitals found that family-reported end-of-life care was significantly better for those with cancer or dementia than for those with other serious illnesses. Increasing access to palliative care may improve quality of end-of-life care for patients dying of heart, lung, and kidney diseases.
Researchers at Georgetown University Medical Center's Institute for Reproductive Health are studying the use of a smartphone app that calculates a woman's chance for pregnancy. The app, Dot, has been shown to be 96-98% effective in women if used correctly and increases accuracy with continued use.
Studies show that e-consults can decrease wait times, improve clinical care, and reduce the need for face-to-face appointments. The use of electronic consultations increases access to specialists' care for patients who often have difficulty getting a specialist, including the uninsured and underinsured.
Researchers have discovered a super-fast rotating, ultra-cool brown-dwarf star, measuring its rotational period with bursts of radio waves detected by the Arecibo telescope. This groundbreaking detection reveals new insights into the internal dynamics and magnetic field generation in these objects.
The Second Century Stewardship initiative aims to engage science in America's national parks through a feature-length film and collaborative programs. The partnership will focus on Acadia National Park initially, with the goal of scaling nationally to promote science literacy and park stewardship.
A study involving UT Southwestern researchers found that primary care visits lead to higher rates of colon cancer screening and better follow-up care, even in health systems promoting mail-in stool blood tests. This result underscores the importance of primary care physician visits in a virtual care era.
A novel fault diagnosis method using resonance-based sparse signal decomposition and principal component analysis is proposed to diagnose early faults of rolling bearings. The experimental results show that the proposed method quickly discerns faulty elements, improving diagnostic accuracy.
Research by University of Montana scientists reveals the importance of gravel-bed river floodplains to entire ecosystems, supporting over half the plant life and 70% of bird species in the Yellowstone to Yukon region. These habitats provide complex food webs and essential connectivity for terrestrial and aquatic organisms.
Emelia Benjamin, a renowned cardiologist and researcher, has received the American Heart Association's (AHA) highest award for her leadership and contributions to cardiovascular research. She has propelled the AHA's research mission through her work as associate editor of the AHA journal Circulation and chair of multiple committees.
Researchers have successfully sequenced the genome of Hevea brasiliensis, the natural rubber tree, uncovering key genes responsible for its unique properties. The study identifies a cluster of genes related to rubber biosynthesis and disease resistance, which may contribute to the tree's high latex production.
A study by researchers at University of California - San Diego suggests that a larger sand grain size improves nourishment performance. Beaches with coarser sand experienced less erosion during El Niñ events, highlighting the importance of this factor in effective beach replenishment efforts.
Researchers create innovative framework to examine social behavior in various species, shedding light on the role of genetic polymorphism in shaping individual traits. The study reveals that inherited genetic tendencies can accurately predict social relationships and behaviors.
Researchers found that non-fit messaging can reduce certain biases in patient decision-making, leading to more thoughtful and informed choices. The intervention strategy is based on motivational theory and has shown promise in improving patient outcomes.
At the Summer Davos Forum 2016, three KAIST professors discussed the Fourth Industrial Revolution's impact on biotechnology, artificial intelligence, and robotics. They explored opportunities and challenges in machine learning and autonomous robotics. The event highlighted KAIST's research excellence and global participation.
The federal government restricts externally valid scientific research on Cannabis sativa due to its Schedule I classification. This limits the potency and variability of THC in approved products, hindering studies on its therapeutic benefits and risks.
Researchers have discovered that arsenic accumulates in the nuclei of plants' cells at low concentrations, impairing photosynthesis. The toxic metalloid can cause genetic damage by replacing phosphorus in genes.
Researchers use new computer codes to create accurate models of the universe and its contents, shedding light on the evolution of the universe and the growth of structure within it. The study confirms that small-scale structures produce significant effects on larger distance scales, providing new insights into gravity and cosmology.
The Canadian Coalition for Genetic Fairness (CCGF) and Senator James Cowan will receive the ASHG Advocacy Award for their work on a bill preventing genetic discrimination in Canada. The award recognizes their efforts to pass legislation protecting individuals from genetic testing and discrimination.
The CLASH model suggests that hot climates with less temperature variation lead to a faster life strategy, less focus on the future, and less self-control, contributing to more aggression and violence. Researchers believe their model can help explain the impact of climate on rates of violence in different parts of the world.
Researchers found that the elephantnose fish switches between electrical and visual senses for optimal perception, with its brain prioritizing reliable information. The fish demonstrated unexpected abilities, such as trusting electrical signals over visual stimuli at close range, and using a combination of senses for distant objects.
Researchers demonstrate that hairs, feathers and scales share a common evolutionary origin, developing from placodes with similar molecular signatures. The study provides new insights into the evolution of skin appendages and their diversity.
A University of Houston study found that more than one-third of African-American youth experience death ideation after racial discrimination, which can be a predictor of suicide. The research suggests implementing adaptive coping methods, such as journaling and talking to parents or friends, to support children affected by discrimination.
Researchers discovered that progesterone receptor dramatically alters how estrogen receptors interact with cell's DNA, leading to inhibition of cellular proliferation and metastasis. Combining tamoxifen with a progestin antagonist showed added benefit in shrinking tumors.
Research suggests that beneficial bacteria like Lactobacillus and Streptococcus may protect women from breast cancer by inducing anticarcinogenic properties. Probiotics could be a potential tool to boost these beneficial bacteria, potentially lowering the risk of breast cancer.
A new study suggests that coal workers' transferable skills, such as mechanical and electrical expertise, can be applied to the growing solar energy sector. The research estimates that the solar industry can absorb layoffs from the coal industry over the next 15 years.
Researchers at Mainz University discovered a new mechanism of neonicotinoids harming honeybees by reducing acetylcholine in royal jelly/larval food. High doses of neonicotinoids damage microchannels, jeopardizing normal development and survival.
Fossil record reveals ancient insect behavior of debris-carrying and camouflage, providing insight into early evolution. Convergent evolution led to diverse adaptations in morphological characteristics.
A review paper published in Nature Reviews Drug Discovery suggests targeting non-muscle cells in the heart responsible for cardiac scarring could lead to new treatments for heart disease. Scientists aim to utilize natural reparative processes of fibroblasts to modify scar tissue properties.
Stent retrievers effectively reverse strokes by removing gelatinous blood clots, outperforming intravenous drug tPA in reducing disability. The devices will impact stroke systems of care and treatment location, routing higher severity patients to centers capable of neuroendovascular procedures.
A computer program can now accurately retrieve product images based on hand-drawn sketches, revolutionizing online shopping. This technology enables users to sketch their desired products and instantly find them online.
A new study reveals that Siberian larch forests are still thriving in the Northern Russian permafrost despite rising temperatures, indicating a slow adaptation process that can take thousands of years. The research suggests that colder ice ages have delayed vegetation adaptation to warmer climate periods.
Researchers have identified specific microRNAs that play a crucial role in inducing asthma, providing a potential new target for treatment. The findings suggest that regulating these miRNAs could represent a novel therapeutic approach for asthma.
Researchers developed a new device for measuring polarization of light based on single spatial sampling, using organic polymers. The device can achieve measurement error as low as 1.2 percent.
Obese male mice produce female pups that are overweight and have delayed breast tissue development, linked to increased breast cancer risk. Researchers found epigenetic changes in miRNA signatures of dad's sperm and daughter's breast tissue
Researchers found a vast array of previously unknown RNA transcripts and alternative splicing patterns, revealing new functional parts of the maize gene. This discovery has great importance for agriculture, as it can help breed corn to adapt to climate changes.
A recent study by Ashley Barr found that high-quality relationships are associated with improved physical and mental health in young adults. The longer individuals stay in high-quality relationships or quickly exit low-quality ones, the better their overall health. Low-quality relationships have detrimental effects on health.
New research suggests that Earth's ancient magnetic field had multiple poles and fluctuated wildly in terms of intensity. The findings propose a new hypothesis for the solidification of the inner core and its impact on the magnetic field.
Scientists at KIT discovered that the synchronized repair of two single-strand breaks consistently leads to tandem duplications of shorter sequences near the break locations. Using CRISPR/Cas system like molecular scissors, they found a new mechanism for the formation of tandem repeat DNA sequences in plant genomes.
Researchers have developed a new model called CLASH that suggests hot climates with less seasonal variation lead to more aggression and violence. This is due to a faster life strategy, reduced focus on the future, and decreased self-control, resulting in quicker reactions and increased aggression.
Researchers identified unique genetic signatures in four human breast cancer cell types, which can be used to tailor therapies using combinations of targeted drugs. The study found that targeting multiple driving oncogenes with lower doses reduces side effects and increases effectiveness.
A novel substance abuse treatment program, Community Wise, targets marginalized populations in impoverished neighborhoods with high retention rates and reduced substance use. The NIH-funded study aims to create an efficient and effective program with a targeted delivery cost of $250 per client.
Researchers propose a novel combination therapy using resveratrol, antioxidants and iron chelators to slow down Alzheimer's disease progression. The addition of resveratrol may enhance cell viability and longevity by activating AMPK and sirtuin pathways.
A recent study found that depression decreases adherence to COPD maintenance medications in older adults, with average monthly adherence peaking at 57% and decreasing to 25% within six months. Clinicians should be aware of the development of depression in newly-diagnosed patients with COPD.
Researchers at KIT replicated the structure of rose petal epidermal cells to improve light-harvesting and generate more power. The transparent replica integrated into an organic solar cell resulted in a 12% efficiency gain, making it a promising approach for future solar cells.
Researchers have developed a new method to detect mycobacterial pathogens directly from patient samples using genetic analysis, reducing detection time to 1-2 days. The new method was found to be equally accurate as traditional culture-based techniques and can also detect resistance to standard medicines.
Researchers at Drexel University discovered that diatom species composition can be correlated with New Jersey water quality standards, making them an efficient indicator of nutrient levels. The team created the diatom biological condition gradient (BCG) scale, which provides a clear and comprehensive picture of water quality.
Research by VU Amsterdam found that witnesses interviewed together made fewer errors than those interviewed separately, contradicting previous studies on witness contamination. The study showed that effective communication styles among witnesses led to better recall of information.
A team of researchers at KIT developed a 3D model for prostate cancer research using cryogels, which can replicate natural processes and examine tumor development. The model has been recognized as the top story on Prostate Cell News.
Scientists at the University of Basel and Zurich have successfully reproduced one of natural photosynthesis' key phases with artificial molecules. They stored two negative charges for 870 nanoseconds, paving the way to harnessing sunlight into chemical energy.
Researchers found that female blue tits sing when faced with danger, singing patterns resembling those of males. The birds' vocalizations may serve as a warning signal or indicate stress and the ability to escape.
Researchers analyzed amber fossils of Cretaceous insects, finding complex camouflage strategies dating back over 100 million years. Insects employed plant residue, grains of sand, and even prey remains to blend in with their surroundings.
Researchers found that trauma-related behavioral alterations are reversible in mice and that epigenetic dysregulation of the glucocorticoid receptor gene can be corrected by low-stress environments. This finding has implications for the transmission of characteristics caused by the environment, such as metabolic disorders.
A study by Simon Fraser University researchers found that the loss of sea stars led to a quadrupling of green sea urchins, which prey on kelp, causing its decrease by 80 per cent. The ecosystem is still recovering, with no sign of recovery in sea stars.
A Yale-led study found that the EGFR cancer gene silences tumor suppressor genes in lung and glioblastoma brain cancers using a common mechanism. This discovery informs future research directions and may help determine how effective treatments will be against different EGFR mutations.
The American Statistical Association publishes guidelines for researchers to treat statistics as a science, not a recipe. The 10 simple rules emphasize the need for principled statistical analysis to avoid misperceptions and inaccurate claims.
Fluorides are effective in preventing caries, but their use alone cannot prevent the disease when combined with high sugars diets. The effects of reducing sugars intake are modified by fluoride, but the two approaches can work synergistically to reduce caries activity.
A team of scientists has discovered that two genes associated with Parkinson's disease are key regulators of the immune system, providing direct evidence linking Parkinson's to autoimmune disease. The study found that proteins produced by these genes can prevent cells from being detected and attacked by the immune system.
A University of Delaware-led team studies the biogeochemistry of ocean and coastal waters, focusing on manganese's role in marine ecosystems. The research aims to understand how manganese transitions between states and its impact on biological growth of marine organisms.
A Brazilian birth cohort study found that life-course overweight and obesity significantly increase the risk of unfavorable periodontal outcomes. The study suggests a cluster effect, where excess weight and unhealthy habits together exacerbate periodontitis risk.
The Gerontological Society of America's Journalists in Aging Fellows Program supports award-winning coverage of aging issues by connecting reporters with experts and trusted sources. The program highlights the need to change attitudes and expand possibilities in storytelling about aging.