The USDA has awarded $6.6 million in grants for research focused on improving animal nutrition and growth, with a goal of enhancing animal health, reducing production costs, and minimizing environmental impacts. Funded projects include studies on starch digestion in cattle and nutrient delivery to pigs facing disease challenges.
Scientists have created a rechargeable battery driven by bacteria, addressing safety issues and high costs associated with conventional lithium-ion batteries. The microbial battery successfully stored energy for 16 hours and discharged it over the next 8 hours, mimicking day-night patterns typical of solar energy production.
A team led by Julie Huber has discovered an active microbial community in cold oceanic crust at North Pond, an isolated sediment pond on the western flank of the Mid-Atlantic Ridge. The microbial community is oxygenated and heterogeneous, with distinct differences from that found in ocean bottom seawater.
A St. Michael's Hospital study found that women with low or high body mass indexes who smoked and drank had a two-fold higher risk of being diagnosed with asthma. The research included data from approximately 175,000 people aged 18 to 44 across 51 countries.
The SALOME study found that injectable hydromorphone is as effective as diacetylmorphine for long-term street opioid users not currently benefiting from available treatments. Participants reported significant reductions in opioid use and illicit activities, with over 80% retained in treatment at six months.
A survey of older American men who frequent sex work websites found that those over 60 paid for sex more frequently as they aged. The study also revealed that these men sought out specific experiences, such as the 'girlfriend experience', and were willing to pay for non-sexual activities with providers.
Researchers at UCSB have identified specific defects in LED diodes that result in reduced efficiency, but not all defects are alike. The characterization of these point defects could lead to the fabrication of even more efficient and longer-lasting LED lighting.
A new study has found that moss can be a useful bioindicator of cadmium air pollution in urban areas. Researchers used moss to track down previously unknown pollution sources in Portland and created a fine-scale map of cadmium deposition across the city.
Researchers tracked female turtles by satellite from Cyprus, finding that they are dying in fishing nets used by small-scale operations. The study highlights an 11% mortality rate per year, a higher rate than expected for this long-lived species.
A Concordia University study found that greater informal social support was associated with lower inflammation, while formal support services were related to better self-rated health. The impact of support on the parents' inflammation levels increased with the age of the affected child.
Researchers at EPFL developed a microchip using graphene that can filter out unwanted radiation, ensuring data integrity. The discovery could lead to faster data uploads and improved wireless communication in the Terahertz frequency band.
A University of Guelph study finds that introducing invasive round goby fish does not help conserve endangered native mollusks, but rather hampers their reproduction. The research team discovered that the fish essentially 'wastes' mussel larvae, further threatening the species' survival.
ORNL researchers have found a potential path to improve solar cell efficiency by understanding the competition among halogen atoms during perovskite synthesis. The study reveals that bromine, chlorine, and iodine ions facilitate growth but only iodine gets into the final crystal structure.
Many restaurant kids' meals meet calorie criteria, but fall short on fat, saturated fat, and sodium levels. Researchers call for restaurants to market healthier options and parents to guide children toward healthy choices.
State RPS policies have contributed to over half of US renewable electricity growth since 2000. The report finds that RPS policies will require a substantial increase in US renewable electricity supplies by 2030.
A new study analyzes hailstorm distribution and characteristics over a 13-year period, finding distinct seasonal cycles and wind direction correlations. The research provides high-resolution insights for weather forecasting, climatology, agriculture, economics, and insurance.
Researchers have developed a new trap to monitor and control Aedes aegypti mosquitoes, the primary transmitters of Zika, dengue, chikungunya, and yellow fever. The plastic ovitrap infused with pyriproxyfen has been shown to be 100% effective in preventing larvae from developing into adults.
A pioneering technique using cold blasts has shown promise in improving the quality of life for patients suffering from phantom limb pain. After treating 20 patients with cryoablation therapy, researchers found a significant reduction in pain scores, from an average of 6.4 to 2.4 points.
Researchers argue that network governance models can help big conservation alliances govern themselves and strengthen connections through communication. This approach emphasizes inclusivity, allowing disparate stakeholders to envision common goals and choose metrics for measuring progress.
A new immune-suppressing drug regimen has led to the longest survival yet for a cross-species heart transplant, involving pig hearts in baboons. The study's results could lead to increased use of xenotransplantation and potentially help severe organ shortage among human patients.
A massive solar storm could disrupt communications satellites, knock out GPS systems, and shut down air travel and lights in millions of homes. The US government is taking the threat seriously, increasing support for research and forecasting to mitigate the impact.
Kitt Shaffer, MD, PhD, received the 2016 Alliance of Medical Students Educators in Radiology (AMSER) Excellence in Education Award. She has made significant contributions to medical student radiology education through her work on curriculum development and faculty mentorship.
Researchers found that physical exercise significantly improves cognitive performance in individuals with schizophrenia, particularly in areas such as memory, emotional intelligence, and problem-solving skills. The study suggests that early intervention and combined cognitive training with aerobic exercise may lead to long-lasting impr...
Researchers have discovered regulatory sequences in zebrafish that can turn on genes involved in regeneration, which also exist in humans. These 'tissue regeneration enhancer elements' or TREEs may hold the key to improving human regenerative capabilities through genome editing technologies.
Researchers from MedInsight Research Institute analyze studies detailing gadolinium toxicity mechanisms, contradicting the longstanding belief that patients with normal kidney function are not at risk. The study calls for FDA action to address the gap in scientific knowledge about treatment for gadolinium toxicity.
A study by researchers at the Heart Failure Center of the University of São Paulo suggests that wearing a respirator mask can lessen the impact of vehicle emissions on people with heart failure. The results also indicate that this type of mask can reduce the risk of developing cardiovascular disease for healthy individuals.
Researchers at the University of Bonn discovered that cyclodextrin promotes the breakdown of cholesterol deposits in arteries, reducing inflammation and plaque formation. The ring-shaped sugar increases natural mechanisms for cholesterol breakdown and reduces inflammatory response, offering a potential new treatment for atherosclerosis.
A hospital-based study found carriers of MC1R variants were at higher risk of melanoma, regardless of sun exposure. The study suggests a potential molecular mechanism underlying melanoma development.
Researchers found that over 70% of mentioned exemplars represented practical wisdom, which includes insight into real-life issues and strategic problem-solving. The study identified three prototypes: practical, philosophical, and benevolent, with practical wisdom being the most frequently mentioned.
Tropical Cyclone Zena intensified in the South Pacific Ocean near Vanuatu on April 5, 2016, causing sustained winds of over 35 knots. The GPM satellite measured intense downpours dropping rain at a rate of almost 154 mm per hour
A new study found that achieving ideal cardiovascular health factors, such as healthy blood pressure and cholesterol, is associated with a reduced risk of new-onset kidney disease. The study included 14,832 adults aged 45-64 and followed them for an average of 22 years to develop chronic kidney disease.
Researchers have developed a new method for gene transfer using an array of carbon nanotubes, overcoming limitations of existing technologies. The device successfully delivers DNA into tens of thousands of cells simultaneously with minimal toxicity and no restrictions on genetic payload.
A world-first study by QUT finds that drugs used to treat nicotine addiction can also reduce sugar cravings and consumption. The study highlights the importance of reevaluating our relationship with sweetened food, and may represent a novel new treatment strategy for obesity.
The Royal Society of Public Health advocates for introducing activity equivalent calorie labelling on food packaging to prompt people to be more mindful of their energy consumption and encourage physical activity. Public polling shows that almost half of people find current front-of-pack information confusing, but 53% would positively ...
A new study published in Neurology found that babies born to mothers taking the epilepsy drug lamotrigine may not be at an increased risk of birth defects such as cleft lip and clubfoot. The study, which analyzed over 10 million births, estimated the excess risk of these defects to be less than one in every 550 babies.
Researchers measured precise binding energy of a 10ΛBe hypernucleus, finding small charge symmetry breaking for heavier hypernuclei. The study extends knowledge of the nuclear force to the baryonic force and has significant implications for hypernuclear studies.
New research uses iron-60 isotopes to prove ancient supernovae buffeted Earth, dating events between 1.7 million and 8.7 million years ago. Scientists estimate potential effects on human evolution and search for signs of impact on the planet.
Researchers at Stanford University found that applying pressure can increase the voltages of perovskite solar cells and enhance their electronic conductivity. This discovery holds promise for advancing low-cost tandem solar cells.
Experts predict a rise in alcohol-related deaths in England due to income growth outpacing tax increases, but Scotland's minimum unit pricing law may lead to a decrease. In contrast, Ireland, Northern Ireland, and Wales are likely to follow Scotland's lead, resulting in lower death rates.
Researchers have developed a compact and highly sensitive optical method for detecting radiocarbon dioxide concentration, enabling on-site carbon dating and greenhouse gas measurements. The SCAR instrument can deliver results in just two hours with lower cost and faster delivery time compared to traditional methods.
Research suggests that relying on smartphones for internet access while traveling can cause significant anxiety. The study, conducted by Hui-Jen Yang and Yun-Long Lay, found that young people and those with higher levels of education experience greater 'smart phone web-dependence' and associated anxiety.
A metabolic pathway up-regulated in certain breast cancers promotes disease progression by activating the cell signaling protein Arf6, according to a recent study. Statin-like drugs may be effective treatments for patients whose tumors express high levels of Arf6 signaling proteins.
A state-of-the-art molecular genetic test, exome sequencing, has been found to greatly improve the diagnosis of neurogenetic disorders in children and adults. The test can identify disorders that may have gone undiagnosed for years with greater speed and accuracy.
A study from the University of Cambridge and Queen Mary University of London found that stroke survivors often face 'invisible impairments' that make it difficult to maintain a job. Online forums provided valuable advice and support, highlighting the need for employers to be more supportive and aware of these challenges.
Researchers are studying coral genomes to better comprehend why some reefs thrive while others die, with implications for Guam's economy and tourism industry. The new genetic sequencer will enable local scientists to tackle molecular reef ecology and train the next generation of researchers.
A new Baylor University study published in Personnel Psychology investigates why employees' unethical behaviors may be tolerated versus rejected. High job performance can offset unethical behavior, while low-performing individuals are more likely to face ostracism.
Researchers detected frequency-following responses coming from the auditory cortex, in addition to known sub-cortical generators, using magnetoencephalography (MEG) technology. This discovery will inform further research into neuroplasticity and its potential to improve auditory processing.
Researchers compare odor of human remains with dead animals to identify signature smells. They hope an artificial nose can help rescuers find bodies and aid law enforcement search for homicide victims.
A clinical trial confirms that a shortened radiotherapy schedule is as effective as conventional radiotherapy in treating low-risk prostate cancer patients. Patients treated with the shorter regimen experienced more mild side effects, but no difference in severe late side effects.
Salk scientists discovered that specific immune receptors in the brain play a crucial role in clearing both healthy and dying neurons. In their absence, new neurons increased dramatically in certain regions, suggesting that these receptors may also target living but dysfunctional cells.
Minimalist running shoes with forefoot strike may reduce repetitive strain on the knee, lower leg, and heel. However, runners should still exercise caution and transition to a new gait pattern gradually to avoid injuries.
Scientists develop method to produce polymers mimicking proteins' versatility and structure, using triazine-based polymer TZP. The resulting material has non-covalent bonds and side chains arranged in specific positions.
Scientists have discovered nanpillars on the surface of drone fly larvae that prevent bacterial colonization. These unique structures may also exhibit superoleophobic properties, hindering biofilm formation and bacterial growth.
Six new species of dragon millipedes have been discovered in Chinese caves, featuring unusually long legs and antennae. The species, which live exclusively in caves, exhibit extreme adaptations such as loss of pigmentation and elongated body parts, making them appear ghostly white and semi-transparent.
Researchers found a supermassive black hole with an estimated mass of 17 billion solar masses in the galaxy NGC 1600, located 200 million light-years from Earth. This discovery suggests that these massive objects may be more common than previously thought and could be living in smaller galaxies.
Researchers at MIT describe a feedback-control system that preserves quantum superposition in nitrogen-vacancy centers, enabling reliable quantum computing. The system uses entangled spins of nitrogen and NV center atoms to correct errors during computations.
Astronomers have discovered a record-breaking supermassive black hole weighing 17 billion suns in the center of a galaxy in a sparsely populated area of the universe. The massive object's size defies expectations, as it is 10 times more massive than predicted for a galaxy of its mass.
A randomized clinical trial found that injectable hydromorphone was noninferior to injectable diacetylmorphine in treating long-term severe opioid dependence. The study suggests that hydromorphone could be a licensed alternative for patients where diacetylmorphine is unavailable or unsuccessful.
A warming climate is expanding Europe's seasonal window for mosquito-borne dengue fever, posing a significant global health concern. The study found that increased temperatures will intensify the ability of Aedes mosquitoes to transmit the disease, putting much of Europe at risk of seasonal outbreaks by the end of the century.
Researchers at Vanderbilt University have isolated antibodies with a loop-like structure that binds tightly to HIV and disables it. The study suggests a new approach to rapidly induce broadly neutralizing antibodies in people who have not been exposed to HIV.
Researchers at PPPL designed and tested a 'liquid lithium limiter' that circulated protective liquid metal within the walls of China's EAST tokamak, keeping plasma from cooling down and halting fusion reactions. The system improved tokamak performance by reducing impurities and maintaining optimal plasma conditions.
A study by sociologists found that young, less educated males share a greater amount of discriminatory content on Facebook, while young university females share the least. The researchers discovered that there is a feminine and masculine way to behave on the internet, with males tendings to be more direct in their posts.
A new study found that 85% of Scandinavian adolescents' Instagram accounts share at least one food image, with high-calorie foods like candy and ice cream being the most common. Positive descriptions and festive environments, such as birthday parties, were also strongly linked to these types of posts.
Researchers studied kindergarten children's social exchanges to understand dynamics of complex interactions, finding evidence of non-traditional hierarchies and reciprocal pairings such as leadership/followship and aggression/submission. The study suggests people do not always behave in a hierarchical manner, with some 'leaders' showin...
The article discusses the successful implementation of acupuncture in US military settings, specifically Battlefield Acupuncture (BFA), and its potential benefits for treating pain. The authors highlight the importance of data collection to assess outcomes and explore additional integrative medicine techniques.
A new report exposes the shocking statistics of LGBT activists' murders in Honduras, with 215 killings between 2009 and 2015, and only 48 cases going to court. The violence rocketed after the 2009 coup, but remains largely unreported.
Researchers have developed a magnetically controlled material composed of enzymes entrapped within magnetite particles, enabling targeted treatment of cancer and thrombosis. The new material stabilizes itself without additional stabilizers, making it suitable for intravenous injection.
A recent study from Texas A&M University reveals that consuming saturated fats at certain times can disrupt the body's internal clock and trigger metabolic disorders. The research suggests that timing of fat consumption plays a crucial role in inflammation and disease prevention.
Researchers at UC Davis have made a breakthrough in understanding how we read by developing a new brain-scanning technique called FIRE-fMRI. This method combines functional MRI with eye tracking to study brain activity during natural reading, providing insights into how words are represented in the brain.
A team led by Professor Fritz Roth found that bakers' yeast can identify harmful genetic mutations more reliably than leading algorithms. By testing the effects of human mutations in yeast, they identified 62% of disease variants as damaging, outperforming computational methods.
The Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine recommends the use of antenatal corticosteroids to improve outcomes for babies at risk of preterm birth in the late preterm period. The recommendations are based on a randomized trial that found significant benefits in reducing neonatal respiratory complications and other adverse outcomes.
Researchers have discovered an enzyme that enables the production of fuel-grade oil from plants, a breakthrough that could lead to sustainable energy solutions. The enzyme, lycopaoctaene synthase (LOS), is capable of initiating the production of hydrocarbons, which can be used to make fuels such as gasoline and diesel.
The UGA Skidaway Institute is investigating the dynamic forces of Cape Hatteras waters, which are crucial for understanding global carbon cycling and climate change. The PEACH project uses a combination of shore- and ocean-based instruments to record surface currents and subsurface information.
Researchers found that compression changes bandgaps, allowing scientists to tailor absorbed light wavelength and increase voltage. Pressure also significantly increases electronic conductivity of perovskites.
A study published in the Journal of Managed Care Pharmacy found that patients receiving pulmonary medications showed a significant decrease in emergency room visits and hospitalizations after using the Spokane Prescription Assistance Network. However, those receiving psychotropic medications for mental health conditions saw an increase...
Two studies published in The BMJ question the effectiveness of delaying second heart shocks in hospital patients with cardiac arrest. Deferred second defibrillation attempts were not associated with improved survival rates.
A recent study led by Professor Philip Calder found that children born to mothers who ate salmon during pregnancy were less likely to have doctor-diagnosed asthma. The study compared allergy rates between two groups: those whose mothers consumed salmon twice a week, and those who did not.
Research by Queensland University of Technology found that children who spend more time outdoors have slower eye growth and reduced myopia progression. The study recommends at least two hours of outdoor light exposure per day to help prevent myopia from developing and progressing.
New research reveals dramatic worldwide increases in body-mass index (BMI) and type 2 diabetes, with American Samoa and independent Samoa exhibiting exceptionally high prevalence of both conditions. The studies attribute the rise to factors such as globalization, changing food habits and lifestyles.
A new computational tool, parabolic personalized dosing (PPD), successfully tested in a pilot trial accurately predicts the optimal drug dose for an individual patient. PPD harnesses clinical data to account for various factors influencing drug response, including age, ethnicity, and genetics.
Researchers will model uncertain future meteorology and smoke, dust to gain a comprehensive view of possible air quality implications. The study aims to improve predictions of particulate matter concentrations in the atmosphere.
A new paper-based test can detect foodborne pathogens within 15 minutes, making it a game-changer in large-scale food manufacturing. The test uses controlled pore size to handle complex analysis, providing simple results that don't require special training.
The number of adults with diabetes has quadrupled since 1980, with significant increases in low and middle income countries. The study's findings highlight the urgent need for effective action to reduce the health and economic impact of diabetes.
A 7-year study of half a million Chinese adults found that eating fresh fruit daily was associated with reduced cardiovascular mortality, with strong associations seen in both men and women. The findings suggest that widespread consumption of fresh fruit could prevent hundreds of thousands of cardiovascular deaths annually.
A 2010 outbreak in Maryland was caused by Vibrio parahaemolyticus, a strain sourced from raw oysters from Asian restaurants. Whole genome sequencing helped identify the pathogen's origin and introduced techniques for future outbreaks.
Researchers at CRI identified a new metabolic pathway that allows cancer cells to survive in conditions toxic to normal cells. The study reveals that cancer cells use an alternate version of the pentose phosphate pathway and the Krebs cycle to defend against reactive oxygen species.
Scientists found that ancient mammal relatives, known as therapsids, adapted to drastic climate change by breeding younger and having shorter life expectancies. This allowed them to thrive in the aftermath of mass extinction events.
A new approach to modifying 2D materials has led to an enhancement in the light absorption and stretchability of atomically thin materials. By engineering the two-dimensional material into three-dimensional crumpled structures, researchers achieved more than an order-of-magnitude enhancement in photoresponsivity.
Scientists are exploring the potential of bioceramic silicon nitride to treat severe gum disease, which can lead to tooth loss and increase the risk of heart attack or stroke. The material's surface has been shown to degrade bacteria responsible for periodontitis, offering a promising therapeutic aid.
A new report from the Biodiversity Collections Network highlights the need for better communication about biodiversity collections research and its public benefits. The report outlines seven recommendations to improve coordination, engage new stakeholders, and develop innovative communication methods.
Researchers found that adequate vitamin D levels can prevent all types of invasive cancer combined. The study suggests a reduced risk of cancer at serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D concentrations of 40 ng/ml or greater.
Researchers have identified new molecular targets for treating musculoskeletal diseases such as sarcopenia and osteoporosis. Several promising treatment options are expected to be available in the near future.
The Morehouse College Department of Mathematics has been honored with the Programs that Make a Difference Award from the American Mathematical Society. The department has successfully addressed issues of underrepresentation in mathematics, with an average of 14 math majors graduating each year.
An international team found radioactive iron-60 in sediment and crust samples from the Pacific, Atlantic, and Indian Oceans, indicating a series of massive supernovae near our solar system. The debris is dated to 3.2-1.7 million years ago and coincides with Earth's cooling period.
Public Health England's report suggests e-cigarettes are 95% less harmful than combustible cigarettes, prompting debate in the US where many advocates denounce them. However, UK experts argue that switching to e-cigarettes with support can help smokers quit tobacco altogether.
Astronomers have identified a young and bright planet-like object, 2MASS J1119-1137, which is only 10 million years old and four to eight times the mass of Jupiter. This discovery provides valuable insights into giant planets outside our Solar System and offers a unique opportunity to study these objects.
A new study in Nature finds large variations in precipitation over the past millennium, with stronger extremes in earlier centuries than in the twentieth century. This analysis enables improved accuracy of climate models and better prediction of future precipitation changes.
The Green and Sustainable Chemistry Challenge has selected two winning projects that offer environmentally friendly processes, products, and resources for use in developing countries. Yunsang Kim's project uses nanocellulosic fibers to reduce wastewater and toxic chemicals in textile dyeing, while Suzana Yusup's project develops a wate...
Researchers recorded footage of wild Bawean warty pigs using camera traps to estimate population size and habitat preferences. The findings suggest the species is endangered due to low population density and habitat loss.
The KuLA application enables users to study hentaigana and cursive-style kanji using images from Japanese historical books. Researchers can utilize these resources more effectively, bridging the knowledge gap in pre-modern materials between Japan and international studies.
Physicists validate numerical simulation methods using 40 methods and 15 software packages, confirming high precision. The study's results aim to improve accuracy in theoretical speculation.
Patients with grade 2 glioma who received radiation therapy plus PCV chemotherapy experienced longer progression-free and overall survival times compared to those who received radiation therapy alone. The treatment combination improved survival rates by up to 10 years.
A study published in PLOS ONE found that chronological age was the single best predictor of death in three countries, followed closely by self-reported mobility. Telomere length, previously believed to be a powerful biomarker for aging and mortality, ranked lower than other indicators in predicting mortality.
Research suggests that soils could store an extra 8 billion tonnes of greenhouse gases, helping to combat climate change. Adopting sustainable land use practices and technologies could enhance soil carbon storage, equivalent to four-fifths of annual fossil fuel emissions.
A Phase 1/2 clinical trial is being conducted to evaluate the combination of MedImmune's durvalumab and VentiRx's motolimod in locally advanced or recurrent ovarian cancers. The study aims to assess the safety and efficacy of the combination, with a focus on enhancing anti-tumor immune responses.
A recent study by University of Montana researcher Jesse Johnson reveals that geothermal heat enhances rapid ice flow and subglacial melting in northern Greenland. The research, published in Nature Geoscience, identifies a west-to-east zone with anomalously high heat that drives widespread melting and rapid ice flow.
A new study reveals how Vibrio cholerae bacteria regulate their adaptations in different environments, including a key role for crab shells in signaling behavior. The research provides information that could lead to the development of better therapeutic agents against cholera.
Researchers at Oregon Health & Science University have discovered the precise structure of the serotonin transporter, a key player in regulating mood and behavior. This breakthrough provides a platform for designing new, more effective small molecule therapeutics to treat depression and anxiety.
Researchers design a new type of extended-release pill that can attach to the gastrointestinal tract lining and release its contents slowly. The dual-sided device uses mucoadhesives and omniphobic materials to resist being pulled away by food and liquids.
A new study shows that genetically modified pig hearts developed by US and LMU researchers can survive for more than 2½ years when transplanted into baboons. The findings demonstrate a promising breakthrough in xenotransplantation, with potential implications for human organ transplantation.
Patients with grade 2 glioma who received combined chemotherapy and radiation therapy experienced longer progression-free survival and overall survival compared to those who received radiation therapy alone. The study's findings suggest that initial therapy of RT followed by PCV is necessary to achieve longer survival.
Current methods for predicting damage to coral reefs are limited by a focus on individual species in isolation. To address this, researchers propose combining empirical evidence with traditional biological scaling models and computer simulations to understand the emergent properties of acidification-afflicted reef ecosystems. This appr...
Researchers at Washington State University will use new modeling techniques to predict air pollution changes in the western US due to climate change. The study will focus on small particulate matter, a major contributor to health issues like asthma and lung cancer.
Research from the University of Warwick found that adolescents who spend quality time with their parents are more likely to pursue further study. Cultural activities, such as visiting museums and galleries, also play a significant role in increasing educational aspirations.