Macrophages have been shown to play a crucial role in enthesitis, inflammation of tendons. Researchers found that blocking JAK inhibitors can prevent the increase of STAT1 and successfully treat Achilles enthesitis. This discovery may offer new treatment options for patients with inflammatory rheumatic diseases.
A new study has questioned the Swedish National Board of Health and Welfare's recommendation to raise blood pressure targets for diabetes patients. The study found a linear relationship between blood pressure and cardiovascular disease, with lower blood pressure levels associated with fewer cases of stroke and myocardial infarction.
Researchers created novel scaffolds with aligned ceramic nanofibers to control stem cell development and cancer cell behavior. The unique hybrid nano-network selectively guides stem cells towards specific lineages while suppressing inflammatory factors in cancer cells.
Researchers at Michigan State University discovered melatonin suppresses breast cancer tumor growth, providing proof for the link between sleep deprivation and increased risk. The study showed that melatonin treatment significantly decreased mammosphere size when combined with estrogen or BPA.
New research shows coral larvae cannot survive a 5,000-kilometer trip across the Pacific to replenish eastern corals. Simulations indicate reefs in the Eastern Tropical Pacific are isolated and vulnerable to disturbances.
Researchers have demonstrated silicon nanoparticles that can manipulate and switch light, enabling ultrafast all-optical signal processing in optical communication systems. The nanoantennas can transmit, reflect, or scatter incident light in a specified direction, showing potential for high-speed data transmission.
A new study by Duke University researchers creates an analog DNA circuit that can add, subtract and multiply in a test tube, using concentrations of specific DNA strands as signals. The technology has the potential to be used in diagnosing and treating diseases, with applications including sensing vital signs and detecting molecular si...
A new experiment reproduces nature's patterns with a specially designed system called an H-shaped dielectric barrier discharge system. The system produces filaments of discharge plasma that can assume vast ranges of patterns in 3D, allowing scientists to explore complex mechanisms behind nature's diverse designs.
Geophysicists at the University of Bonn have visualized plant root activity using electrical impedance tomography, allowing for non-invasive monitoring of nutrient uptake. The method provides insights into plant behavior under different conditions, such as drought or nutrient stress.
Scientists have created a new material called Nanofur that mimics the water-repellent and oil-absorbing properties of aquatic fern leaves. This innovative material is highly effective in cleaning up oil spills, with some leaves absorbing up to 30 seconds' worth of oil.
A team of Penn State materials scientists has developed a unique three-dimensional sandwich-like structure that protects the dense electric field in the polymer/ceramic composite from dielectric breakdown. The material has been shown to have high energy density, power density and excellent charge-discharge efficiency, making it highly ...
Researchers discover that five hours of sleep deprivation leads to a loss of connectivity between neurons in the hippocampus, a region associated with learning and memory. However, blocking the protein cofilin and allowing recovery sleep restores neuronal connections and improves memory processes.
Tropical Storm Lionrock is consolidating and strengthening under NASA's Terra satellite imagery. The storm has tracked south-southwestward at 5.7 mph, with maximum sustained winds near 63 mph.
A new diagnostic test analyzes ribonucleic acid (RNA) expression in the bloodstream to distinguish bacterial infections from other causes of fever in infants up to 2 months old. The test has shown high sensitivity and specificity, potentially reducing painful exams, unnecessary antibiotic treatments, and hospitalizations.
Researchers discovered a new class of catalysts that enables ammonia synthesis under mild conditions, with LiH playing a crucial role. The discovery breaks the linear scaling relations between activation energy and binding strength, allowing for unprecedented high NH3 synthesis activities at low temperatures.
Researchers developed stretchable micro-supercapacitors using graphene ribbons to store energy in wearable devices. The design allows for stretching without compromising electrochemical performance, enabling applications in smart T-shirts and soft robots.
Scientists have created an interactive game, 'Ice Flows', to demonstrate the Antarctic Ice Sheet's response to climate change. The game allows players to control ice flow and observe its effects on penguins and seals.
The winners of the 2016 Kavli Prize in Astrophysics reveal their 40-year journey to detect gravitational waves. They share their insights on the challenges and breakthroughs in eavesdropping on space-time ripples, which have captured the world's imagination.
A team of researchers from Germany and France has developed an equation of state for wood, which can predict water uptake in treated wood with a simple analytical model. This breakthrough could lead to the development of more environmentally friendly preservation treatments and bio-inspired smart actuators.
The use of electric power morcellation for hysterectomy declined significantly following the FDA's safety communication in April 2014. The prevalence of abnormal pathology remained unchanged despite the decline in morcellation use, highlighting the need for continued caution in patient selection.
Research from Public Health Ontario reveals that parents who actively engage in their children's physical activity, healthy eating and screen time behaviours are more likely to meet Canadian guidelines. The study found that simple encouragement is not enough, with active parental support being essential for promoting healthy living.
Researchers found that nearly a third of HIV's immune target sites were 'pre-adapted' to the newly-infected partner, suggesting vaccine designers focus on conserved viral proteins. The study builds upon previous research using computer models and emphasizes the importance of finding this balance in vaccine development.
High prescription drug prices in US exceed other industrialized nations due to market exclusivity and lack of price negotiation. The study suggests enforcing stricter exclusivity requirements and enhancing competition through timely generic availability can help reduce costs.
Bert Hayslip Jr., a renowned gerontologist, has been awarded the GSA's 2016 Distinguished Career Contribution to Gerontology Award for his groundbreaking research on aging. His work focuses on noncognitive influences on intellectual functioning, grandparenthood, and interventions to improve cognitive functioning.
Researchers developed and validated a prediction model to determine sudden cardiac death (SCD) risk in adults without a history of cardiovascular disease. The study identified 12 independent risk markers that outperformed existing risk equations, providing a strong step toward distinguishing SCD risk across the general population.
A study found that providing antiretroviral treatment (ART) to both members of a couple and offering pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) to the HIV-negative partner significantly reduced HIV transmission rates, with a 96% decrease in transmission compared to expected rates.
Researchers found significant increases in Americans able to afford prescriptions following Medicare Part D and Affordable Care Act implementation. Despite this, nearly 20 million adults struggle with prescription costs.
Castle is a professor at University of Pittsburgh, recognized for his work on nursing home staff turnover and long-term care staffing issues. He has received the prestigious award in acknowledgement of his outstanding career contributions to social research, policy, and practice.
A new study found that immigrant parents detained in private facilities are nearly 60% less likely to receive visits from their children. The researchers analyzed survey data from 462 detainees with children, who were predominantly male and Hispanic, and had spent six months to over 4.5 years in detention.
Researchers at MIT have developed programmable routers that can implement diverse traffic management schemes, improving network resilience. The new design allows for flexible traffic management without compromising operating speeds, enabling innovation and rapid prototyping.
A new study by University of California - Santa Cruz researchers found that early exposure to high levels of manganese causes lasting attention deficits and impairments in rats. The findings support concerns about the adverse effects of excess manganese on children's development.
Cybersecurity researchers at NYU Tandon School of Engineering have developed a unique chip that checks for sabotage and detects malicious circuitry. The chip uses an embedded module to prove its calculations are correct and an external module to validate those proofs, providing a safety net against hardware defects.
Research suggests that prenatal exposure to certain organochlorine chemicals may increase the risk of autism spectrum disorder in children. The study found that children born after being exposed to high levels of these chemicals during pregnancy were 80% more likely to be diagnosed with autism.
Researchers at UNH have created a linkage map of Fragaria iinumae, a wild ancestor of the cultivated strawberry. This breakthrough provides a valuable resource for assembly of a reference genomic sequence, which will aid in breeding for desirable traits such as fruit quality and disease resistance.
Researchers at the University of Nottingham found that faulty inhibitory neurotransmission and excessive activity in the hippocampus impair memory and attention. The study highlights the importance of well-balanced neural activity within brain regions, suggesting that both too much and too little activity can cause impairments.
Researchers uncover complex mechanism behind TGFβ's dual effect on tumors, revealing potential target for selective inhibition. The study reveals how TGFβ and Ras interact with p53 family members to stimulate tumor growth and metastasis.
Researchers visualized fluid-fluid displacement in porous media, revealing optimal wettability conditions for efficient displacement. The findings could improve carbon sequestration, oil recovery, and fuel cell performance.
Tendon transfer surgery can significantly improve hand and elbow function in quadriplegics, enabling patients to perform daily activities like dressing and bathing. However, the procedure remains underused due to lack of coordinated collaboration among specialists.
Per capita spending on US prescription drugs is the highest in the world, driven by brand-name prices that can rise substantially during competition-free periods. The authors argue for limiting market exclusivity rights and ensuring timely generic drug availability to reduce costs.
A study found that integrated team-based care practices were associated with higher rates of quality measures, such as active depression screening and adherence to diabetes care bundles. This approach also led to lower rates of acute care utilization and reduced payments received by the delivery system.
Dr. Richard Schulz is honored with the GSA's 2016 Distinguished Mentorship in Gerontology Award for fostering excellence and making a significant impact through mentoring. His decades-long research career has focused on adult development, aging, and social-psychological aspects of late life disease.
A new study published in Geology reveals extensive fossilized river systems on Mars' Arabia Terra plain, indicating a warm and wet climate around 4 billion years ago. This discovery supports the idea that Mars was once more favorable for life than its current cold and dry environment.
A recent study published in Nature Communications found that eliminating dendritic cells from transplanted organs can prolong transplant survival by reducing T cell proliferation. This breakthrough could lead to new methods for preventing or treating organ transplant rejection without compromising the patient's immune defenses.
A team of NYU scientists will investigate how rice adapts to salty soil conditions under a $4 million NSF grant. They aim to identify genes that enable plants to thrive in saline environments, with potential implications for breeding more resilient crops.
Researchers cloned an epidemic strain of Zika virus, creating a model to test strategies for stopping the pandemic. The clone is used for developing a live but attenuated vaccine to create long-term immunity.
Six individuals, including Becca Levy and Luigi Ferrucci, have been recognized by the Gerontological Society of America for their groundbreaking research on aging and Alzheimer's disease. Their study found that negative age stereotypes can predict Alzheimer's disease biomarkers, highlighting the importance of cultural factors in aging.
A Yale-led study found that haze in China significantly drives the urban heat island effect, unlike in the US where vegetation plays a key role. The research highlights the paradoxical impact of smaller aerosol particles, which cool surfaces but larger ones radiate heat.
A study reveals inadequate laboratory testing capacity and underutilization of existing technologies, limiting the ability to meet global HIV targets. This shortcoming affects countries' capacity to monitor HIV infection and provide antiretroviral therapy.
NASA's Aqua Satellite observed Tropical Depression Kay devoid of thunderstorms as it passed overhead on August 23. The depression was fueled by cool waters near Baja California, but lacked sufficient convection to sustain storms.
Researchers have designed a smart membrane that stops battery discharge when not in use, allowing for rapid recharging. The technology aims to improve the range of electric cars by tens of miles per minute, outpacing the current limit of 0.4 miles per minute.
A phase 2 clinical trial suggests that intravenous glyburide treatment may improve patient outcomes after a major stroke by reducing brain injury and death. The study found a significant reduction in brain imaging measures of midline shift, as well as lower levels of MMP-9, a biomarker associated with brain swelling.
A new study suggests that increased sea temperatures can enhance and accelerate radiation-induced DNA effects in marine mussels. The research found that DNA damage appeared earlier at higher temperatures compared to lower temperatures, potentially compromising the mussels' ability to defend against genotoxic insult.
A new study from Oregon State University found that STEM faculty at large research universities are creating their own evaluation systems, using data to improve instruction. Faculty in these fields are gathering and responding to data, often using their own systems, to advance their teaching beyond required evaluations.
The National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases has awarded BRI a five-year, $8 million grant to collaborate with UW Medicine and SCRI on immune system responses to allergens in the lungs. This study aims to inform new treatments for allergies and asthma.
A Kyoto University study found that green tea polyphenol reduces inflammation and promotes elastin production, protecting against aneurysm progression. The researchers suggest daily green tea intake as a new preventative strategy for abdominal aortic aneurysm.
The NIST team has demonstrated a compact atomic gyroscope design that can measure rotation and acceleration with high accuracy. The device uses a cloud of laser-cooled atoms to simulate rotations, generating interference bands to detect the rotation rate and axis.
Kali St. Marie Thomas, PhD, receives the award for outstanding early career contributions in social research and practice. Her research focuses on improving the quality of life of older adults needing long-term services and supports.
Researchers developed a novel approach to determine how atoms are arranged in materials using Bayesian statistical methods. This new method allows for a richer understanding of material variability, including thermal displacements and vibrations, enabling the characterization of materials from various techniques.
Researchers found that BPA affects male turtle brains, inducing female-like behavior and altering navigational abilities. This could lead to dramatic population declines in painted turtles, making them a potential indicator species for ecosystem health.
A new study by a UC Santa Barbara researcher reveals that Latinos age at a slower rate than other ethnic groups. The findings, published in Genome Biology, may one day help scientists understand how to slow the aging process for everyone.
Research by RMIT University and others found technical problems caused 64% of drone accidents, prompting calls for improved airworthiness requirements and mandatory accident reporting. The study highlights the need for robust communications systems to prevent accidents in the rapidly growing drone industry.
The NIH has selected winning teams from a nationwide undergraduate biomedical engineering design competition for their innovative solutions to various healthcare challenges. The designs showcased promising technologies for diagnosing diseases such as tuberculosis and sepsis, with potential to save millions of lives.
The study found that nearly all babies with confirmed and presumed Zika infections had ventriculomegaly, gray and white matter volume loss, and cortical migrational abnormalities. Imaging exams also revealed intracranial calcifications and reduced tissue volume in the brain.
A new study reveals that biological invasions are threatening the last remaining biodiversity strongholds in developing nations. Invasive species like Japanese Knotweed and grey squirrels are causing significant economic damage and compromising global biodiversity.
Researchers suggest that standardizing health insurance plans could alleviate the psychological and financial stress of choosing a plan, making it easier for consumers to understand their options. The proposal aims to create simple products that are easy to comprehend, reducing costly mistakes.
Researchers sequenced and analyzed the genomes of 38 wild snub-nosed monkeys from four endangered species, revealing reduced genetic diversity and a similar number of harmful mutations. The study identified hypoxia-related genes that enable these primates to thrive in high-altitude environments.
PyFR combines highly accurate numerical methods with flexible code implementation to solve complex fluid flow problems. The software achieves over 50% of Titan's theoretical peak performance, making it ideal for industries like aerospace and wind power.
The Generation Study will enroll over 1,300 cognitively healthy older adults at high risk of developing Alzheimer's due to inherited APOE gene mutations. Researchers will test two investigational treatments: an active immunotherapy and an oral medication to stop amyloid accumulation.
A new app developed by Cornell researchers uses artificial intelligence to identify furniture brands and retailers based on photos of products. The system was trained using crowdsourced images and can search a vast database of iconic images from manufacturers' catalogs or specialized websites.
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.