A review of clinical trials found that barley lowers levels of both low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and non-high-density lipoprotein (non-HDL), two types of 'bad cholesterol'. The study suggests that barley has similar cholesterol-lowering effects as oats, making it a valuable alternative for those looking to reduce cardiovascular risk.
Attitudes towards witchcraft varied by social class in 17th-century England, with the educated elite playing a significant role in shaping legal systems. In Yorkshire, there was a greater propensity to believe in covens of witches, as evidenced by a 1621 book titled Deamonologia. The common people, however, focused on practical deeds l...
Researchers developed innovative solutions for autonomous flight, sensing and swarm coordination. The team's breakthroughs include new manufacturing methods, ultra-low power computing architectures and adhesives for agile robots.
A recent study published in Journal of the American Geriatrics Society found that older adults with probable dementia but without a diagnosis are more likely to perform potentially hazardous tasks, such as driving and managing finances. This suggests that early diagnosis can help address safety concerns and plan for the future.
A new study published in Elementa: Science of the Anthropocene found that removing dams in New England can help reconnect fragmented river networks and improve watershed resilience. The study, conducted by a team of researchers at Dartmouth College, examined the impact of dam removal on regional aquatic ecosystems.
Scientists have developed an algorithm to characterize ripples on the ocean floor, which can help understand storm behavior. The algorithm uses fingerprint analysis to measure ripple parameters, such as wavelength and orientation, allowing for more accurate predictions of erosion, storm surge, and overwash.
Researchers have developed a new method for surveying vegetation in dryland ecosystems using standard cameras on drones, allowing for accurate measurement of environmental change. This technique bridges the gap between satellite and on-the-ground methods, providing valuable insights into climate systems and ecosystem dynamics.
Researchers found a link between maternal immune dysfunction during pregnancy and autism combined with intellectual disability. The study identified distinct immune profiles for mothers of children with both conditions, as well as those with intellectual disability without autism.
Researchers discovered that natural killer cells can remember and target pigmented skin cells, potentially treating malignant melanoma and vitiligo. The immune system uses the NLRP3 inflammasome as a checkpoint to trigger this response.
Carbonic anhydrases are essential enzymes regulating the carbon cycle; recent studies focus on naturally occurring products inhibiting CA activity. Various natural product classes, including coumarins, phenols, polyphenols, and terpenes, have demonstrated CA modulator properties.
Hospitalizations related to gout have increased dramatically, reflecting rising incidence and persistent suboptimal care. In contrast, hospitalizations for rheumatoid arthritis have dropped considerably over the past two decades due to improved management and treatment.
Researchers found a genetic variation linked to food addiction in Asian-American college students, who were more likely to crave carbohydrates and fast food. The study's findings suggest that targeting addictive behavior in individuals with the DRD2 A1 variant could lead to personalized approaches for promoting healthier eating habits.
A team of researchers, led by Prof. Dr. Sonja Entringer, is studying the effects of maternal stress during pregnancy on newborn cell biology and cellular aging. The study aims to understand how prenatal exposure to stress affects the unborn child's development and future health.
A three-year study found that 62% of corals weakened by pollution died when parrotfish bit them, turning a natural process into coral murder. Multiple stressors combined with warming temperatures facilitate pathogens, killing corals.
Researchers found that subcutaneous fat has an intrinsic circadian rhythm in insulin sensitivity, peaking at noon and decreasing by midnight. This internal clock may contribute to daily rhythms in glucose tolerance observed in humans.
Researchers developed a device that can absorb up to 90% of chemotherapy drugs in 25-30 minutes, reducing their circulation and potential harm. The system targets tumors with a concentrated dose while capturing the majority of drugs like a sponge, potentially improving treatment outcomes.
Human parthenogenetic stem cells derived from unfertilized oocytes can be used to generate unlimited supply of neural stem cells for transplantation. The study found that grafting these cells into non-human primates with Parkinson's disease promoted behavioral recovery and increased dopamine concentrations.
Babies born at 41 weeks' gestation are more likely to score higher on standardized tests and be classified as gifted, while also facing a slightly higher risk of physical disabilities. This advantage is particularly pronounced in children born to mothers with low education levels.
Astronomers may discover these 'diamond worlds' around rare carbon-enhanced metal-poor stars, which formed in the early universe. Carbon-based life is thought to be universal, supporting the possibility of life on these unusual planets.
Researchers developed a new method to calculate elasticity of minerals at high pressure and temperature, reducing computational loads by up to tenfold. This allows for the constraining of Earth's interior composition and temperature with increased precision.
Research from University of Kent suggests smartphone addiction causes people to view phubbing as normal behavior, due to experiencing or being ignored in social situations. Factors such as internet addiction, FOMO, and lack of self-control also contribute to this phenomenon.
Recent research reveals that antibiotic-resistant strains may be fitter and more virulent, complicating the fight against bacterial infections. The discovery challenges the long-held paradigm of a fitness cost associated with antibiotic resistance.
A clinical trial showed that stem cells from umbilical cord blood significantly reduced Eczema Area and Severity Index scores by 50% in high-dose patients. Immune-related markers of atopic dermatitis also decreased, with persistent improvement throughout the 12-week follow-up period.
The Nordic countries exhibit both high levels of gender equality and disproportionately high rates of intimate partner violence (IPV) against women. Despite these contradictions, researchers believe that understanding the underlying causes may offer tools to combat IPV globally.
A team of researchers led by Sridhar Mahadevan is applying deep learning methods to analyze large amounts of scientific data from Mars. They hope to develop a practical tool for handling vast amounts of data created by various scientific instruments, including the NASA Curiosity rover.
Researchers analyzed head shapes of 1,073 python and boa specimens from diverse habitats to understand the independent evolution of similar characteristics. The findings suggest that pythons and boas can serve as a new model system for studying various aspects of evolution.
Chinese researchers have developed a new in situ transmission electron microscopy (TEM) technique that offers powerful functionality to understand atomic-scale structure and its correlation with physical and chemical properties. The technique has potential applications in smart windows, energy management, and environmental protection.
Researchers have developed an artificial seawater medium that can successfully cultivate abundant marine microorganisms, many of which have not been genetically characterized before. This new tool may benefit genomics researchers, marine chemists and the microbial research community.
Scientists have built a model to investigate the metastasis of cancer by examining the metabolism of breast epithelial cells. The study shows how the metabolic signposts of cancer cell growth can be predicted based on EGFR signaling genes.
A new study using an economic model found that climate change will significantly impact farmland values in the US Southwest, with highland counties expected to be more affected than lowland counties. Irrigation and farm subsidies increased farmland value, while heat waves hurt productivity.
A recent study published in Frontiers in ICT found that a person's online browsing behavior can reveal their unique digital signature, which can identify them. The research suggests that personality traits can be deduced by general internet usage, offering new avenues for understanding online behavior and its applications.
Astronomers using OISTER telescope consortium in Japan have discovered the origin of 'extraordinary supernovae', which are brighter than normal ones. The 'accretion' scenario supports the discovery, where material ejected from a white dwarf is responsible for the emission.
Participants in a 22-session program increased their moderate intensity physical activity by 45-52 minutes per week, with average weekly activity levels maintained after the program ended. The study found that season and weather influenced physical activity levels, with more activity during summer months.
A new vaccine identifies strains by proteins attached to the surface of pneumococcus, promoting an immune response that targets specific threats. The vaccine is 100% effective in defending against more than 12 strains and may one day stamp out pneumonia, meningitis, and other illnesses.
A North Carolina State University study found that hiking and hunting caused minor effects on wildlife distribution in protected Eastern forests. The study, which used citizen science camera traps, compared protected areas with similar habitats but different hunting regulations, and sites on and off hiking trails.
A new study led by Dartmouth researchers finds that individual placement and support services can lead to competitive employment for people with serious mental illness within 9 months. The cost-effective approach also reduces health service usage over time.
Swiss researchers improve an interferometry technique to directly exploit fringe interference, acquiring high-resolution images without the need for a G2 grating or small pixel detectors. The new setup increases flux efficiency by a factor of two and reduces overall production costs.
Researchers analyzed data from Washington State hospital database and found no difference in cancer rates between patients who received rhBMP and those who did not. The study's findings suggest that additional follow-up is needed to rule out any longer-term increase in cancer risk.
Researchers suggest that anorexia nervosa is linked to the brain's reward system and a genetic factor involved in neuron survival. The study found that patients with anorexia nervosa experience increased sweating when viewing images of thin bodies, which may be related to the presence of a specific gene variant.
Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) affects millions of Americans, causing profound fatigue, cognitive dysfunction, and sleep abnormalities. A new study led by Professor Derya Unutmaz aims to develop better diagnostic tools and personalized treatments for the disease.
The USPSTF recommends screening for syphilis in asymptomatic, nonpregnant individuals at increased risk due to high prevalence rates. Early detection and treatment can lead to substantial health benefits, including preventing late-stage disease and transmission of HIV.
New research suggests that sexual transmission of Ebola could have a major impact on the dynamics of the disease. The study found that even small and short outbreaks with sexual transmission were larger and longer-lasting than those without it.
The prevalence of obesity in the US has increased among women, with a significant rise between 2005 and 2014, while rates for men have remained stable. Obesity affects over 38% of adults in the US, with class 3 obesity affecting around 7.7% of both sexes.
A new study from the Cornell Food & Brand Lab found that women who recall their parents commenting on their weight are more prone to being overweight and less satisfied with their weight as adults. Commenting on a daughter's weight can have a negative impact later in life, damaging body image regardless of weight.
A Yale-led study provides a spatially explicit dataset of urban centers from 3700 BC to A.D. 2000, offering insights into long-term historical urbanization trends and patterns. The dataset allows researchers to map and visualize city-level population changes through time, shedding light on human interactions with the environment.
A new Canadian Government-funded study found that 80.8 million preschool-aged children worldwide lack basic skills, impacting future development, mental and physical health, and education. The study estimates 17% of children are physically stunted, highlighting the importance of investing in early childhood development.
Engineers at Binghamton University have developed a disposable microbial fuel cell powered by bacteria available in dirty water, which can power biosensors for up to 20 minutes. The new design boasts increased power density and voltage compared to previous origami batteries, offering potential for use in resource-limited regions.
A recent US study found that white male physicians earn substantially more than black male physicians, even after adjusting for factors such as medical specialty and experience. Female physicians also face a pay gap, with lower incomes compared to their male counterparts.
Researchers found that approximately 39% of adults who experienced major depression can attain complete mental health, characterized by happiness, life satisfaction, and well-being. Social support was a key factor associated with this outcome, particularly having close relationships.
Researchers discovered sea snakes use scale sensilla to sense vibrations in water, allowing them to detect objects at a distance. This hydrodynamic sense is not possible for land animals and could be impacted by man-made disturbances.
A team led by University of Central Florida researcher Debashis Chanda is developing a novel infrared detection technology that could improve night vision, meteorology, and space exploration. The new detector will be tunable and able to see a range of bands, producing high-resolution images without the need for cooling.
Researchers at Zhejiang University have developed a potential biomarker for bacterial pneumonia using breath analysis. The study found a link between volatile organic compounds in exhaled air and patients diagnosed with bacterial pneumonia.
A large UK study found that married people are 14% less likely to die after a heart attack and spend two fewer days in hospital. The study suggests that physical and emotional support from a spouse can improve survival rates.
Researchers found that a combination of factors including overfishing, nutrient pollution, and pathogenic disease weaken corals, allowing opportunistic pathogens to build to deadly levels. The study suggests that coral reef declines are being caused by the interaction of multiple local stressors and global warming.
Researchers have discovered that enhancing mitochondrial transport along neuronal axons improves the ability of mouse nerve cells to repair themselves after injury. The study suggests potential new strategies for stimulating human neurons to regrow after damage or disease.
A study published in Global Change Biology predicts that climate change will make it difficult for koalas to survive in the drier, hotter parts of their range. The researchers used a detailed ecological model to predict how much energy and water koalas need to survive under changing climate conditions.
A Rutgers University study found that guideline-recommended practices such as nonpharmacological mental health services are frequently not followed. Despite this, higher rates of psychosocial interventions and metabolic monitoring have been achieved for children in foster care compared to other Medicaid-insured children.
A new meta-analysis of US recidivism risk assessment instruments found them to be accurate but with unclear impact on reducing bias against offenders based on race or other factors. The study evaluated 19 commonly used RAIs and assessed their accuracy in predicting recidivism, ease of use, and inter-rater reliability.
Researchers aim to identify genes involved in PZQ resistance, enabling development of simple molecular tests to monitor resistance and provide early warning of drug resistance emergence. The study will focus on precise genes and mutations in laboratory genetic crosses and then expand to field researchers in Uganda and Kenya.
Research suggests that coordinating chemotherapy treatments with the time of day when a patient's body is most awake can minimize drug toxicity and increase anti-cancer therapeutic drug efficacy. This approach targets the circadian clock, which regulates certain signaling pathways to regulate drug metabolism.