Enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) programs can save hospitals money by reducing patient lengths of stay and direct variable costs. Implementing ERAS protocols requires significant upfront investments, but the model shows that these costs are more than offset by savings.
A study by Simon Fraser University reveals that the number of homeless individuals with psychiatric comorbidities migrating to Vancouver's DTES has increased significantly over the past decade. Despite increasing involvement with public services, these individuals remain exposed to serious health and social risks associated with poverty.
A long-term study at Harvard Forest found that adding litter accelerated the breakdown of organic matter, releasing more CO2 into the atmosphere. The experiment contradicts previous assumptions about soil's ability to store carbon.
The NSF is investing $30 million in three Expeditions in Computing projects that aim to explore the frontiers of theoretical computer science, synthetic biology and computational sustainability. The grants will support large-scale research teams working on formal methods for software development, a novel toolkit for computational bio-d...
New chigger mites discovered on rodents in Thailand expand the country's total known species to 99. The three new species were named after historical figures and belong to the same family as scrub typhus vectors.
A new study reveals that tropical rainforests' predictable structure is driven by competition for sunlight, which fuels the growth of small trees in sunlit patches. This finding can improve climate simulations and estimate carbon storage in tropical forests.
A Berkeley Lab-led team has identified mechanisms that make the new CrMnFeCoNi alloy incredibly tough and strong at room temperature. The alloy's unique nanoscale mechanisms, including crack bridging and three-dimensional stacking fault defects, work together to resist damage.
A study of popular commercial exercise DVDs found that they often feature unrealistic body images and demotivating language, which can lead to reduced motivation and increased risk of psychological harm. The researchers recommend consumers be aware of these potential pitfalls when selecting exercise videos.
A study published in Childhood Obesity found that low-income communities have higher rates of childhood obesity, with each 1% increase in low-income status corresponding to a 1.17% increase in overweight/obese students. Family income, not race, is the stronger predictor of obesity among children.
A recent paper confirms the existence of the Anthropocene, a new geological epoch driven by human activities such as material dispersal and greenhouse gas emissions. The study, co-authored by 24 geoscientists, identifies distinct signals in sediments and ice that justify recognition of this new time unit.
Researchers found that DNA methylation plays a key role in regulating social dominance in cichlid fish. By altering gene expression, these fish can change their social status, which is linked to better health and quality of life.
The International Society for Heart Lung Transplantation (ISHLT) has updated its listing criteria for heart transplantation, expanding eligibility to patients with HIV and hepatitis. The new guidelines also relax the BMI threshold for overweight patients with heart failure.
New research published by the Society for Personality and Social Psychology found an almost even split between people who value their time or money, with prioritizing time associated with greater happiness. The study, which included over 4,600 participants, also found that older people were more likely to prioritize their time.
Researchers highlight the need for early planning and support for teens with autism and their caregivers to transition into adulthood successfully. Caregivers are encouraged to start discussing future plans with their children as early as age 12 or 13.
Sherborn's monumental work, Index Animalium, provides a rigid framework for knowledge and has remained the most complete reference source for animal nomenclature. Biodiversity informatics aims to build on his work, expanding to be digital, diversified, and accessible.
A new international collaboration has received a £2 million award to fund research into combatting cardiovascular disease in rural South Asia. The study will test low-cost strategies by health workers and doctors to lower blood pressure among adults and reduce their risk of heart disease.
A student-built experiment aboard NASA's OSIRIS-REx mission has been integrated to study asteroid Bennu's elemental abundances. The Regolith X-ray Imaging Spectrometer (REXIS) will observe solar X-rays and their interaction with the asteroid's surface material, providing maps of elements present on its surface.
Researchers developed a saliva-based test detecting methanol, ethanol, ethylene glycol, propan 1,3 glycol and γ-hydroxybutyric acid. The test uses gas chromatography-differential mobility spectrometry for accurate detection of toxic levels in saliva samples.
Studies show that inducing a second stroke nearby in the brains of mice can help them regain motor function to pre-stroke efficiency. This suggests that the optimal recovery window after a stroke may not be permanently closed and can reopen under certain conditions.
Research by Laura Kray at UC Berkeley's Haas School of Business found that sympathy can motivate stronger parties to help weaker ones, leading to more compassionate solutions. Being transparent about misfortune is more effective when initiated by a low-power negotiator or someone in the weaker position.
Researchers propose a stochastic differential equation model to simulate musical performance synchronization. The model accounts for internal tempo preservation, noise distraction, and phase correction.
Researchers identify LMIT1, a mitochondrial iron transporter in Leishmania parasites, as crucial for parasite virulence. Inhibiting LMIT1 function can abolish parasite virulence and reduce disease severity.
A new gene editing technique using CRISPR/Cas9 has been shown to improve vision in rats with inherited blindness. The researchers successfully removed a genetic mutation that causes the disease, allowing the rats to see better. Further development is needed, but this breakthrough offers hope for treating inherited diseases.
The new journal aims to highlight the emergence, progress, and impact of quantum information science and related technologies. It will be led by Editor-in-Chief Dr Robert Thew and offers open access publishing options.
Scientists developed an imaging method to measure single-walled carbon nanotube quantum capacitance, a unique property of these materials. The technique allows sub-wavelength spatial resolution and enables optimization of processing strategies, shedding light on the quantum properties of nanotubes.
Researchers at the Weizmann Institute of Science have created miniature 'flasks' that can accelerate chemical reactions by trapping molecules in a highly selective manner. The dynamic and reversible clusters can be reused multiple times, making them useful for applications such as drug delivery and industrial manufacturing.
Researchers have discovered that the DNA-binding protein Foxd3 acts as a genetic traffic signal, holding stem cells in readiness for transformation during early embryonic development. This discovery sheds light on how development works and has important implications for understanding developmental and adult diseases.
Research by AU School of Public Affairs professor Taryn Morrissey found that mothers with moderate or severe depressive symptoms were less likely to ensure car seat safety and have working smoke detectors. The study also linked households with gun ownership to increased risk of firearm-related injuries among children.
Researchers found that Arctic communities' ability to adapt to climate change is hindered by non-climatic factors such as resource availability, local governance, and economic disparities. However, with the right policies and practices, these communities can overcome these hurdles and successfully adapt to projected changes in climate.
The study found that intestinal parasites like whipworm and roundworm did not decrease in prevalence during the Roman Period, but instead increased. The Roman public baths may have actually helped spread these parasites due to infrequent water changes and scum buildup.
Research suggests that symptoms of illness are not caused by direct infection but rather serve as a mechanism to isolate the infected individual and prevent further transmission. This 'selfish gene' hypothesis proposes that evolution has preserved such behavior over millennia.
Scientists at the Wyss Institute developed a bioinspired blood coagulation assay that can detect abnormal platelet function in patients with rare bleeding disorders. The device uses microfluidic technology to mimic blood flow dynamics, enabling real-time monitoring of clotting and preventing life-threatening events.
A University of Central Florida research team is studying the effects of the Deepwater Horizon oil spill on the Gulf of Mexico, focusing on toxic compounds not tracked by the EPA. They've developed a new method to detect these 'forgotten' polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), which may be more toxic than those monitored.
A team of UMass Amherst computer scientists designed an algorithm to rapidly remove inventor ambiguity from patent records, improving searches. The winning approach will be incorporated into the USPTO's new online platform, PatentsView, providing users with more efficient and effective search capabilities.
A study found that one in ten ICU patients develops PTSD within a year of discharge, with pre-existing conditions being strong risk factors. The study also suggests that proactively organized psychological aftercare for ICU survivors is needed to address this growing issue.
Researchers found that head-down yoga poses, such as downward-facing dog, can cause a rise in eye pressure in glaucoma patients. Glaucoma patients should inform their yoga instructors about their condition to modify poses and avoid potential damage to the optic nerve.
A study by Stanford University researchers discovered that activity in two brain regions - the anterior insula and nucleus accumbens - affects an individual's likelihood of taking risks in financial matters. Those with a stronger connection between these regions tend to be more cautious in their gambling decisions.
Cornell University has launched a multi-institutional virtual research lab called CompSustNet, exploring new directions in computational sustainability. The $10 million NSF grant will bring together researchers from 12 institutions to develop novel solutions for sustainable future challenges.
Research finds that thinking from God's perspective decreases biased valuation of non-believers' lives by almost 30%. This contradicts common assumptions about faith leading to violence. The study, published in PNAS, explores how Palestinian youth made moral choices from their own perspectives and Allah's perspective.
Researchers found that genetic variants in the beta-3 subunit of nicotinic acetylcholine receptors can alter nicotine behavior. People carrying the more common version are more likely to have problems with nicotine use.
A joint team from Kessler Foundation and NJIT is developing new applications for wearable robotic exoskeleton devices to improve mobility and enable safer, more independent functioning for people with spinal cord injuries, Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, and stroke. Researchers are also evaluating the efficacy of existing robots for resto...
Researchers discovered a cellular circuit in the mouse brain that enables it to remember safe environments and differentiate them from dangerous ones. The study found that disrupting this circuitry may contribute to conditions like posttraumatic stress and anxiety disorders.
The James Webb Space Telescope has made significant progress with the installation of its primary mirror segments, a critical component of the observatory. The 18 hexagonal-shaped mirrors will work together as one large 21.3-foot mirror, unfolding and adjusting to shape after launch.
A new study highlights the true costs of hydroelectric dams in tropical regions, including significant impacts on biodiversity and fisheries. Researchers warn that dam site selection is crucial for conserving biodiversity, but many countries lack protocols to ensure careful planning.
Researchers found a change in gene expression that may have contributed to the development of a weight-bearing structure in humans, allowing for bipedalism. The study identified a region in the human genome responsible for controlling armor plate size in threespine sticklebacks, which expressed higher levels of GDF6 in freshwater fish.
Researchers at RMIT University have created a new class of sound wave that can be used to manipulate fragile stem cells without causing damage. The 'surface reflected bulk waves' are gentle enough for biomedical devices and open up new possibilities in stem cell treatment.
Researchers found that marine creatures in Arctic fjords migrate vertically by moonlight to avoid predators, and this behavior is observed across the entire Arctic. The lunar cycle drives these migrations, with zooplankton sinking to depths of 50 meters every 29.5 days during full moon.
Researchers at Newcastle University have confirmed that praying mantises use 3D vision to hunt, with a new model to improve visual perception in robots. The team used custom-made glasses with one blue and one green lens to show insects any desired images.
Researchers at RIKEN QBiC have developed a new method for monitoring mouse sleep cycles using the Snappy Sleep Stager, a non-invasive and automated system. The system has identified a new short-sleeper gene, Nr3a, which is associated with schizophrenia, Alzheimer's disease, and depression, all of which are linked to sleep disturbances.
A Simon Fraser University study found that women with more surviving children have longer telomeres, indicative of cellular aging. The research suggests that increased estrogen during pregnancy protects cells against telomere shortening and may slow down the aging process.
The Can Manufacturers Institute supports the inclusion of all forms of fruits and vegetables in new dietary guidelines, citing nutritional benefits and convenience. A recent survey found that limiting language can negatively impact consumer perceptions of packaged fruits and vegetables.
A new study by researchers at NIMBioS reveals that consistent size structures exist across tropical rainforests, driven by competition among trees for light following a gap disturbance. The findings have significant implications for modeling tropical forests' sustainability and carbon sequestration.
Scientists have developed a new method for classifying cells based on large population of cell images, allowing for high specificity and accuracy. The approach uses machine learning to analyze bright and darkfield images, opening up new perspectives for cell cycle analysis and potential applications in various contexts.
Research by University of Huddersfield experts highlights the need for nationwide improvements in staff knowledge and skills to prevent pressure ulcers. The team's findings suggest that a national education programme is necessary to promote patient health-related quality of life and reduce healthcare costs associated with pressure damage.
A Northwestern University team has developed a mid-infrared tunable laser integrated into an on-chip amplifier, demonstrating an order-of-magnitude increase in output power. The new technology allows for adjustable wavelength output, modulators, and amplifiers in a single package, enabling more efficient detection of hazardous chemicals.
Researchers at The Wistar Institute used patient-derived xenograft (PDX) mouse models to test a combination of targeted therapies against relapsed melanoma. A MET inhibitor called capmatinib, when combined with BRAF and MEK inhibitors, showed significant tumor regression in all animals, suggesting a possible new mechanism of resistance.
Researchers added cesium to perovskite solar cells, increasing thermal and photostability while maintaining high efficiency. The modified cells showed a boost in efficiency when layered on top of silicon photovoltaics, potentially achieving over 25% efficiency.
NASA's RapidScat instrument measured surface winds in Tropical Storm Ula, finding the strongest sustained winds near 29 meters per second/south of the center. The storm is expected to weaken due to increasing vertical wind shear and cooler waters.
Kansas State University researchers developed a vaccine protecting against multiple US avian influenza strains, including H5N1, H5N2 and H5N8. The NDV-H5Nx vaccine can be administered through water or embryonated eggs, offering a potential solution for mass vaccination of poultry.
A University of Cincinnati researcher has identified PI5P4Kβ, an enzyme that senses GTP levels in cells, as a potential therapeutic target for cancer drugs. The discovery could help slow or halt the growth of aggressive brain cancers and other types of cancer.
A new study published in JAMA Oncology found that solid-organ transplant recipients have a significantly higher cancer death rate than the general population. The research, which analyzed data from over 11,000 transplanted patients between 1991 and 2010, revealed that SOTRs were at increased risk of cancer death regardless of age, sex,...
A new method of galactoseismology has confirmed the existence of a dark-matter dominated dwarf galaxy and may help locate satellite galaxies. The method uses waves in the galactic disk to map the interior structure and mass of galaxies, offering a fresh perspective on understanding dark matter.
Researchers warn that dam projects on Amazon, Congo, and Mekong rivers put many unique fish species at risk due to habitat disruption and human displacement. An improved approach to dam evaluation and siting is needed to balance costs and benefits of hydropower.
Researchers found that stories dealing with core values activate the default mode network in the brain, which was previously thought to be an autopilot system. The level of activation varied across cultures, with Iranians showing the greatest response.
A recent study found that dihydroartemisinin-piperaquine treatment has failed in certain provinces of Cambodia due to parasite resistance. The WHO has reinstated artesunate plus mefloquine as the first-line treatment in these areas. New surveillance and clinical trials are needed to track the spread of piperaquine resistance.
Researchers suggest that a single mutation in protein interactions was crucial for the transition from single-celled to multi-cellular organisms. This discovery has implications for understanding disease states, such as cancer, where damaged cells can revert to a unicellular state.
A review analysis suggests that patient location and travel mapping limitations contributed to the Ebola epidemic's spread. Employing community members in mapping and education could have helped contain the outbreak.
A Texas A&M University study found that private landowners and managers are more likely to use prescribed fire for brush control in regions with lower legal liability standards. The research highlights the importance of integrated ecological, economic, and socio-political influences on natural resource management.
A new study shows that trees globally compete in some of the same ways, making simpler models of forest response to climate change possible. Trees with denser tissues have more impact on their neighbors.
Researchers at Boston University School of Medicine identified a metastasis suppressor gene called serum deprivation response (SDPR), which plays a role in breast cancer progression. Over-expression of SDPR reduces the incidence of metastatic disease in models of aggressive, metastatic breast cancer cells.
Researchers used data from the Smithsonian's ForestGEO network to develop biologically sound explanations behind mathematical rules of thumb for estimating tree density and size. This enables more accurate calculations of a tropical forest's ability to store carbon.
Scientists say human activity has left a pervasive signature on Earth that warrants recognition as a new geological time unit. This 'Anthropocene' epoch will be marked by uniquely human products and global markers such as carbon particulates, nitrogen, phosphorus, and nuclear fallout.
Researchers used tagged penguins and an autonomous underwater vehicle to study competition between Adélie and gentoo penguins for the same food resources. The study found that gentoo penguins shifted behavior to deeper depths when competing with Adélie penguins, suggesting a strategy to limit competition.
The Fermi team has created the most detailed census of the sky yet made at extreme energies using improved data processing methods. The new sky map reveals hundreds of high-energy sources, including blazars and remnants of supernova explosions.
Astronomers have detected a massive galaxy cluster, IDCS J1426.5+3508, 10 billion light years from Earth, formed just 3.8 billion years after the Big Bang. The cluster is about 1,000 times more massive than the Milky Way and is undergoing significant upheaval.
Researchers found that offering smaller portions consistently motivates individuals to choose healthier options, regardless of hunger levels. Desirable non-food rewards also increase motivation for choosing smaller portions.
A new study found that long-term ozone exposure increases the risk of ARDS in critically ill patients, with a significant association seen among trauma patients and current smokers. The study analyzed data from 1558 patients and found that higher ozone exposure was linked to increased rates of ARDS.
Researchers at Boston University aim to advance synthetic biology by creating a toolbox of carefully measured and catalogued biological parts. The project will use computing engineering principles to develop an open-source repository of biological pieces that can be used to engineer organisms with predictable results.
A recent study published in Cell Reports reveals that a group of protein kinases, specifically PKN2, play an essential role in congenital birth defects such as spina bifida. The researchers also found that these kinases may be potential cancer drug targets, particularly for pancreatic and breast cancers.
Researchers at McGill University have developed a method to assemble gold nanoparticles using DNA structures, allowing for the creation of novel materials with unique properties. This 'printing press' for nanoparticles has the potential to facilitate use in electronic and medical applications.
New studies reveal that Neanderthal genes have increased the ability of modern humans to ward off infection, but may also contribute to allergies. The findings highlight the importance of interspecies relations in human evolution and specifically in the evolution of the innate immune system.
Researchers developed a portable system using patent-pending Coded Hemodynamic Imaging technology to monitor blood flow at multiple arterial points simultaneously. This allows for continuous monitoring and more complete body imaging, enabling early detection of cardiovascular issues and greater independence for older adults.
A study led by CU Denver professor Martin Lockley found evidence of dinosaur mating displays in 100 million-year-old rocks. The discovery provides physical proof of courtship behavior in dinosaurs, filling a missing gap in our understanding of their behavior.
The study of the Iceman's gut microbes reveals a surprising connection to Asian strains and modern European strains, suggesting that recent human migrations influenced European genetic makeup. The findings also indicate that the Iceman may have been ill before his murder, with high levels of virulence factors in his gut microbiome.
Researchers at Duke University found that delayed neural stem cells can cause premature differentiation into neurons and increased cell death, leading to smaller brain development. This study provides new insights into the mechanisms of microcephaly and its potential links to other neurodevelopmental disorders.
Researchers found a potentially virulent strain of bacteria in Ötzi's stomach contents, which reacted with his immune system. The discovery sheds light on the coexistence of humans and Helicobacter pylori, suggesting that two strain types may have recombined into today's European version.
A new study led by Michigan State University found that nearly 1 in 4 children experience online sexual harassment at the hands of their own friends. Parents can help mitigate this issue by having open and honest conversations with their kids about online safety and boundaries.
VIB researchers identify PHD1 as a potential therapeutic target for treating brain infarction and ischemic stroke. Inhibition of PHD1 offers protection against stroke via an unexpected mechanism, reprogramming glucose utilization to detoxify toxic oxygen radicals.
A long-term surveillance study shows chromoendoscopy is more effective than random biopsy or white-light colonoscopy in detecting dysplasia in patients with inflammatory bowel diseases. Chromoendoscopy identified precancerous lesions in 27 out of 208 examinations, while white-light examination detected them in only 11.
Three of the earth's mightiest rivers, Amazon, Congo and Mekong, are being ravaged in the name of progress due to hydropower expansion. This study highlights the negative impacts of hydroelectric development on fish diversity and ecosystems of tropical rivers.
A portable version of NIST's 'headspace analysis' technique has been developed, enabling detectives to carry a convenient version of the method in a briefcase-sized kit. The kit can recover vapors from solid or liquid compounds, including environmental pollutants and forensic evidence, with collection times as fast as 3 seconds.
A new clinical study at The Feinstein Institute for Medical Research has discovered a personalized approach to diagnose low back pain by analyzing serum levels of proinflammatory cytokine interleukin-6 (IL-6). Higher IL-6 levels were found in individuals with lumbar intervertebral disc disease, suggesting that biochemical profiling can...
A newly developed tropical depression formed five months early in the 2016 hurricane season, indicating strong uplift and potential for heavy rain. The system tapped into significant directional wind shear and prevailing conditions conducive to development, classified as a tropical cyclone.
Researchers identified an ancient protein mutation that enabled the evolution of a protein necessary for multicellularity in animals. The study, published in eLife, describes a molecular mechanism involved in the origin of complex life and establishes a paradigm for research in evolutionary cell biology.
A University of Southampton-led study found that blocking a receptor in the brain responsible for regulating immune cells can prevent cognitive decline and memory loss associated with Alzheimer's disease. The researchers discovered that reducing brain inflammation could halt disease progression.
Staff at South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust have reduced waiting times for mental health patients after redesigning their referral system. The results show an improvement in both waiting times and percentage of patients seen within set standards following a single intervention.
Research published in Psychological Science found a link between lead exposure and ADHD symptoms in children with the HFE C282Y gene mutation. The study showed that lead effects were more robust in males and that environmental pollutants like lead play a role in explaining ADHD symptoms.