Economist Christopher Smallwood argues that private top-up insurance could prevent declining healthcare standards in the NHS. He proposes a French-style scheme where treatment costs are covered by the state and individuals make contributions for minor treatments.
Researchers at University of Waterloo's IQC recorded interaction 10 times larger than previously seen between photons and qubit, enabling investigation of light-matter interactions in a new domain. The ultrastrong coupling may lead to exploration of new physics related to biological processes, exotic materials, and relativistic physics.
Researchers have confirmed that mutation-caused dysfunction in a process cells use to transport molecules within the cell plays a previously suspected but underappreciated role in promoting Alzheimer's disease. The study found that treating mutated neurons with a beta-secretase inhibitor rescued endocytosis and transcytosis functions.
Hurricane Nicole strengthens as it approaches Bermuda, with a large eye detected by NASA's GOES Project. The storm is expected to pass near or over Bermuda on Thursday, Oct. 13, with maximum sustained winds near 100 mph and higher gusts.
Academically talented US girls outperform boys in verbal abilities, while India's gifted girls trail behind in math but excel in language. The study analyzed 320,554 and 7,119 top-performing students from the US and India, respectively.
A 24-year study found that sudden blood pressure drops are associated with a 15% increase in long-term dementia risk. Orthostatic hypotension was linked to brief episodes of reduced brain blood flow, potentially leading to detrimental effects on brain tissue.
The research initiative presents key findings on state and community tobacco control, including smoke-free home interventions and retail policies to reduce tobacco use. The papers provide evidence-based solutions for policymakers and advocates seeking to address the complex tobacco control landscape.
A study by University of York psychologists found that perceiving oneself as obese triggers lower body satisfaction in females compared to males. Brain activity monitoring revealed a link between body perception and emotional processes, shedding light on eating disorder vulnerabilities.
Researchers found that network structure determines success in group problem-solving strategies, and vice versa. Teams should be designed around their learning style to strike the right balance between exploration and exploitation.
Scientists at Harvard's Wyss Institute have developed a way to analyze the effect of mechanical stiffness on chemotherapy treatment. The new method uses alginate hydrogels to mimic tumor and normal tissue environments, revealing that softer matrix conditions lead to increased resistance.
A new species of ancient armored fish, Bothriolepis rex, was discovered by a team of scientists from Drexel University and other institutions. The fish is estimated to be around 5.5 feet long, making it the largest known member of the Antiarchi group, which dates back to the Devonian Period.
A nationwide genomic study of 800 Danish high school students found that the population is genetically similar, with subtle traces of historical impact on genetic variation. The study suggests that people have mixed freely between different parts of the country, leading to a relatively homogeneous population.
Scientists at NREL are leading an effort to model complex wind flow through large wind plants as part of the Exascale Computing Project. The project aims to advance our fundamental understanding of whole wind plants and reduce the cost of electricity derived from wind energy.
The Canadian Cardiovascular Society has published new guidelines for managing dyslipidemia, a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease. The guidelines recommend shared decision-making between physician and patient, with a focus on patient involvement in lipid target setting.
A team of international scientists has outlined 14 recommendations to improve the adoption of new cancer scans in clinics. The guidelines aim to address challenges such as variability in methodologies and lack of reproducibility across laboratories.
A study published in Clinical Cancer Research suggests that combining dinutuximab with galunisertib inhibits TGFβ1 and allows NK cells to effectively kill neuroblastoma tumors. This combination therapy has shown promise in reducing tumor growth and increasing mouse survival.
A new study reveals that medieval cities in Western Europe had statistically indistinguishable community grouping patterns compared to younger European cities. The research suggests that social dynamics enabled by medieval cities were fundamentally similar to those of contemporary cities.
A new mapping project identifies 20% of the globe's northern permafrost region as potential thermokarst landscape, storing twice as much carbon as currently in the atmosphere. Scientists can use the map to estimate greenhouse gas emissions and test assumptions about permafrost thaw.
Scientists developed a method to measure the oxygen coefficient of uranium in complex oxides using X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The new technique provides accurate information on uranium oxidation state, essential for creating nuclear reactor fuel, waste disposal templates, and environmental rehabilitation technologies.
A recent study found a measurable bias toward European ancestry data in top genomic databases, with African ancestry data underrepresented. This bias can lead to inaccurate medical genetic diagnoses and higher costs, highlighting the need for greater diversity in genomic databases.
Researchers have observed a binary star system with two stars and three rotating planet-forming accretion discs, all misaligned with each other. The discovery challenges current understanding of planetary system formation and prompts further study to understand the physics behind this unusual system.
Tropical Storm Nicole is forecast to strengthen into a hurricane as it heads toward Bermuda, with maximum sustained winds now near 65 mph. The National Hurricane Center expects the center of Nicole to approach Bermuda Wednesday night and pass near Bermuda Thursday morning.
A study published in the British Journal of Cancer predicts that more than 352,000 people will be diagnosed with cancer each year in the UK by 2035, a rise of 150,000 cases annually. The projected increase is largely attributed to an ageing and growing population, as well as lifestyle factors such as obesity and smoking.
Researchers at the University of Cambridge have developed a new treatment for type 1 diabetes that targets the immune system's damage, aiming to reduce or eliminate daily insulin injections. The treatment uses aldesleukin, a drug that enhances regulatory T cells to prevent autoimmunity.
Research found that internal networking behaviors promote job satisfaction and reduced turnover, while external networking increases the likelihood of leaving a company. Employers can increase opportunities for internal networking to retain talent, balancing work-life interaction.
Researchers will examine the intersection of alcohol use and comorbidities in people living with HIV, including tuberculosis, cardiovascular disease, and falls. The five-year grants aim to improve health outcomes for alcohol-using individuals living with HIV.
Two species of fossil carnivores, Gustafsonia and Angelacrtocyon, were reclassified as early members of the beardog family. These tiny creatures lived 38-37 million years ago in Texas and had features that suggest they may have eaten plants in addition to meat
Researchers propose a national systems-thinking approach to population health, considering how components interact and optimizing the design of the system. This approach aims to share metrics across federal, state, and local levels, improving quality and quantity of life.
Researchers at the University of Texas at Arlington have developed a novel microwave-induced photodynamic therapy that can target deeply situated tumors. The treatment uses microwaves to activate photosensitive nanoparticles, producing tissue-heating effects that ultimately lead to cell death.
A six-month study in Pennsylvania found that eggs from small flocks have a higher prevalence of Salmonella enteritidis than those from large commercial flocks. The bacteria was present in internal and external egg contents, highlighting the need for education and quality-assurance practices in backyard and small layer flocks.
Researchers have developed a porous amorphous silicon modification that compensates for the disadvantages of crystalline silicon in lithium ion batteries. The resulting material exhibits excellent electrochemical characteristics with a capacity three times better than graphite and much longer cycling stability.
A study by Indiana University researchers found that using a combination of first touch and last touch keyword metrics improves ROI by 5%. First touch bidding prioritizes broad keywords, attracting early searchers, while last touch bidding targets specific keywords used by consumers late in the search process
Researchers at TSRI and STSI used 'molecular autopsies' to detect gene mutations responsible for sudden deaths. In 40% of cases, molecular autopsies revealed a likely or plausible cause of death, often variants of genes inherited from relatives.
A new study found that using Shakespeare's rhythmic language paired with physical gestures improved social interaction and language skills in children with autism. The 'Hunter Heartbeat Method' intervention showed significant improvement in facial expression recognition and social relationships.
A new study by Tufts University researchers found that children and teens with autism spectrum disorder are more likely to be obese and stay obese during adolescence. The study analyzed data from the National Survey of Children's Health and found a higher prevalence of obesity in children with ASD, which remained steady across age groups.
Researchers found that the patient's intestinal microbiota resembled the donor's microbiota and remained stable throughout a 1-year follow-up period. The study suggests that intestinal microbiota can be modified relatively permanently, paving the way for bacteriotherapy products.
The Fonni's Dog genome study sheds light on the history of Sardinia's fiercely protective canine breed, tracing its development through unregulated selection for behavior. The research also highlights the potential of isolated dog breeds as a powerful resource for finding genes that influence health and behavior.
Researchers observed wild chimpanzee mothers teaching their offspring to use tools, including termite-fishing probes. By sharing tools and customizing the learning process for local conditions, these mothers help their young develop essential skill sets.
Researchers found that combining FLT3 inhibition with drugs inducing oxidative stress improves efficacy against acute myeloid leukemia (AML). This approach, which targets genes involved in antioxidant response, shows promise for combination therapy.
Researchers at the Babraham Institute successfully tagged a protein in the mTORC1 complex to observe its movement in real time. The discovery sheds light on how mTORC1 regulates cell growth and ageing, revealing new insights into its dynamics and signalling pathways.
A Phase III trial found ribociclib improved PFS of post-menopausal women with hormone receptor-positive metastatic breast cancer by 44 percent compared to hormone therapy alone. The study also showed a higher ORR in patients receiving ribociclib, with serious adverse events occurring less than five percent overall.
Researchers discovered a molecule, VGF nerve growth factor, triggered by running can help repair damaged nerve insulation in the brain. This finding could pave the way for new treatments for multiple sclerosis and other neurodegenerative disorders.
Researchers developed a new image analysis technique to distinguish between epithelial and mesenchymal cells in tumors. The algorithm achieved over 92% accuracy in categorizing individual cells, revealing potential insights into cancer drug resistance and treatment.
Researchers found that men are pressuring female partners to get pregnant by breaking condoms and manipulating birth control. A new study provides doctors with a streamlined set of questions to discuss with patients about reproductive coercion, which can lead to unintended pregnancies and other health issues.
Proxima Centauri, a small red dwarf star, has a regular cycle of starspots similar to our Sun. The study suggests that this cycle may impact the potential habitability of its planet, Proxima b.
A group of researchers at Umeå University studied the effects of improved methods for restoring Swedish streams, including adding large boulders and trees. The results showed that while complex channels and watercourses can be easily created, reintroducing plants and aquatic animals takes time and patience.
Researchers at the University of Missouri have developed a new formula to help reduce food waste in all-you-care-to-eat facilities. By accounting for environmental costs such as fuel and fertilizers, the formula can help minimize waste and lower the environmental impact.
Fossils previously thought to be generic carnivorans are identified as earliest known members of the beardog family, offering a clearer picture of the species' phylogeny. The research reveals that beardogs may have originated in parts of what is now the southwestern U.S.
Researchers at CNIC have identified a mechanism that allows the Leishmania parasite to evade the immune system by binding to receptor Mincle on dendritic cells. The study found that the parasite's Mincle ligand weakens immune response, allowing it to replicate and be transmitted.
Research reveals females react differently than males to social isolation, experiencing stress and releasing corticosterone. In contrast, male mice show no similar reaction to physical stress, such as swimming, suggesting a lack of sensitivity towards stressors.
Researchers have discovered peculiarities in the NS3 protease of the Zika virus, a key enzyme that can be targeted for effective inhibition. This understanding may lead to the development of highly specific inhibitors with minimal effects on nonviral proteases.
A new study suggests that air pollution, vitamin D deficiency, and occupational exposure to certain pesticides may contribute to dementia risk. The research highlights the importance of addressing environmental factors in preventing or delaying the onset of the disease.
A study published in JAMA found that postmortem genetic testing can identify the likely genetic cause of death in cases where it was not determined. The analysis sequenced DNA from deceased individuals and their relatives, discovering mutations linked to sudden cardiac death, pulmonary embolism, and other conditions.
A team of researchers from ETH Zurich has discovered that a specific subset of blood cells - the regulatory T cells - can suppress lymphedema. This finding could help develop therapies to cure lymphedema by targeting inflammatory responses.
A team from Georgia State University has won a $2 million federal grant to improve mental health services for child victims of commercial sex trafficking. The project will expand therapy programs and train therapists working in juvenile justice and foster care systems.
Scientists at the University of Vienna have developed a new technique to measure isotopes in nanometer-sized areas of materials, revealing atomic-resolution electron microscopes can distinguish between different isotopes of carbon. This method can be extended to other two-dimensional materials and has the potential to improve synthesis.
Senator Mark Warner will receive the SURA Distinguished Friend of Science Award for his efforts to advance collaborative research and education. The award recognizes his commitment to fostering innovation and increasing support for science investments, including a successful restoration of funding for the Jefferson Lab.
Patients diagnosed with cancer at emergency presentation have poorer survival rates compared to those diagnosed electively. The review highlights inequalities in socioeconomic groups and ethnicity, emphasizing the need for new screening methods and improved participation in existing screening programs to reduce emergency presentations.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine identified a protein that enables toxic alpha-synuclein aggregates to spread in the brain. A treatment strategy blocking this protein's action may slow Parkinson's disease progression, as antibodies already in clinical trials for cancer therapy show protective effects.
A field study found pesticide exposure can impact bumblebee colonies, reducing queen and male production, which underpins colony success. The study provided a controlled method to assess long-term effects of pesticides on colony health.