A major review reveals that nearly half (43%) of pregnant women who successfully quit smoking during pregnancy relapse within six months of childbirth. The study highlights the urgent need for effective post-pregnancy support to help mothers overcome nicotine addiction and reduce the economic burden of smoking-related health issues.
Dr. Nadja Spitzer, an assistant professor of biological sciences at Marshall University, has been awarded a $508,708 NSF CAREER grant to study the effects of silver nanoparticles on brain health in children and adults. Her research aims to fill the knowledge gap regarding the use of these particles in consumer products.
A study published in The BMJ found that genetic tests providing risk estimates for diseases like lung cancer and heart disease have little to no effect on behavior change. Despite initial hopes, informing individuals of their genetic risk did not prompt them to adopt healthier habits or quit smoking.
Historic logbook records and computer modeling were used to assess the population's trajectory, finding numbers fell to less than 100 animals between 1914 and 1926. Today, only 12% of pre-industrial levels remain, with conservation strategies crucial for protection.
Advanced theoretical modelling reveals cubosomes' internal structure may be much more complex than thought. Cubosomes, with regular networks of channels filled with liquid, have varying internal structures despite identical external appearance.
Researchers found that consuming loud noises while eating can mask sound cues that naturally limit food intake, leading to increased consumption. The 'Crunch Effect' suggests being more aware of food sounds can help individuals eat less.
A study found that CMS policy suppression of substance abuse-related claims led to decreased rates of diagnoses for conditions commonly co-occurring with substance abuse, particularly anxiety and depression. This can lead to biased health services research studies and epidemiological analyses.
Researchers discovered that volatile compounds from Pseudomonas aeruginosa stimulate the growth of Aspergillus fumigatus, a fungus found in lung infections. The most potent signal was dimethyl sulfide, which is taken up by the fungus to support growth.
A new type of laser enables the creation of twisted light with controlled spin, producing vector vortex beams and polarised light. This innovation has significant applications in optics, machining metals, and communication.
A study finds that brief warm periods can cause rapid ice wedge thawing in Arctic permafrost, leading to increased runoff and changes in the water balance. The research suggests that the Arctic will lose lakes and wetland areas if permafrost retreats, accelerating greenhouse gas emissions.
Researchers found that acute and chronic kidney rejection are different parts of the same immune rejection process, making it a single entity at the molecular level. They identified interstitial fibrosis and tubular atrophy as an early warning sign of active but 'silent' rejection.
A new study by MIT economists suggests that increasing research and development (R&D) funding for clean energy technologies is crucial to hasten the transition to a greener economy. The researchers propose a policy framework that combines R&D subsidies with a carbon tax to make clean energy more economically competitive.
A new study published in JAMA found that excess weight and higher glucose levels in mothers cause their babies to be born heavier, while higher blood pressure causes lower birth weights. The research also found that mothers' blood lipids are not significantly related to the size of their baby.
A new study found that conflicting expectations between parents and medical providers about scheduling follow-up appointments is the most common reason for patients not completing the HPV vaccine series. Researchers suggest improving education and dialogue between providers and parents to increase vaccination completion rates.
Researchers found that increasing NADPH levels in cells improved natural antioxidant defenses, reducing oxidative damage and age-related processes. Long-lived transgenic animals showed lower levels of oxidative damage and delayed aging, with increased longevity and better movement coordination.
A new study by UM Rosenstiel School researchers found that expanding protected areas in US federal waters would safeguard 100% of core home range areas used by three shark species. The study suggests that protecting sharks' core habitat use areas, where they spend the majority of their time, can provide significant conservation benefits.
Researchers found two new species of dung beetles in montane forests and cattle grazing sites across the Mexican mountains. The discovery highlights the importance of preserving disturbed ecosystems for species conservation.
Researchers analyzed numerous studies and reports to find that unvaccinated individuals comprised a substantial proportion of cases in measles and pertussis outbreaks. Vaccine refusal was associated with an elevated risk for measles and pertussis, even among fully vaccinated individuals.
Researchers have discovered a way to create biodegradable packaging materials by infusing eggshell nanoparticles into a blend of polybutyrate adipate terephthalate and polylactic acid. The addition increases the material's flexibility, making it suitable for retail applications such as grocery bags and food containers.
Whip spiders, a poorly understood relative of spiders and scorpions, care for their young, fight to protect territory, and eat a variety of prey including crickets and hummingbirds. Researchers have also found that whip spiders are relatively harmless, with Chapin stating they are afraid of humans.
Researchers found that starting patients with CML on generic form of Gleevec (imatinib) would save nearly $100,000 over five years per patient. This translates to huge cost savings for insurers and patients, with the potential to reduce medication costs by 60-90%.
Research finds that boat mooring chains in Western Australia's Rottnest Island are destroying seagrass meadows at an alarming rate. The seagrass absorbs carbon dioxide at a faster rate than tropical rainforests, making its destruction a significant threat to the environment.
A new study reveals that a more primitive form of photosynthesis evolved in much older bacteria than previously thought, dating back to around 3.5 billion years ago. This type of photosynthesis does not produce oxygen and uses molecules such as hydrogen or iron as fuel.
A study of 200 European forests across six countries found that species-rich forests provide a higher number and variety of services, including air filtration, carbon sequestration, and water supply. The researchers recommend transforming forests into mixed stands to increase biodiversity and ecosystem resilience.
Scientists have developed novel insulin mimetopes that can induce regulatory T cells to produce tolerance against insulin, halting the development of type 1 diabetes in young mice. In a humanized mouse model, the new vaccine efficiently stimulates regulatory T cells, which can impede the immune system's attack on insulin-producing cells.
Scientists have replicated insect-inspired antibacterial nanopillars on synthetic polymers, developing a potential solution to prevent bacterial infections in medical devices. The technology is being explored for use in artificial corneas and other medical implants.
Research using portable wind tunnel technology found that sand dunes can generate dust through grain collisions and vegetation removal. Coppice dunes, vegetated dunes trapping sand and dust particles, emitted the most dust among all tested sources.
A study published in The BMJ found that refugees have a substantially higher risk of psychotic disorders, including schizophrenia. Refugees were up to 3.6 times more likely to develop psychosis than the Swedish-born population, with incidence rates of 1264 per million.
A new study reveals that adolescent female giant pandas disperse farther from their home ranges during mating season, rivaling males in distances moved. This behavior is uncommon in mammals and has significant implications for conservation efforts.
A new study has shown that introducing probiotic Bifidobacterium longum KACC 91563 can reduce the effects of food allergies in mice. The probiotic works by releasing extracellular vesicles containing a protein called ESBP, which neutralizes mast cells responsible for allergic responses.
A new study reveals rapid melting of ancient ice wedges across the Arctic, affecting runoff and amplifying permafrost thawing. The research indicates widespread ice wedge degradation with major implications for global warming and thermokarst formation.
New research reveals that African Americans are less likely to start smoking in late teens but continue smoking into later years, leading to lower average pack-years and reduced eligibility for lung cancer screening. This disparity results in higher risk of death from tobacco-related diseases among African Americans.
A French research team, led by Dr. Frédéric Leroy, has created a method for real-time monitoring of surface changes at the atomic level. The approach enables them to study the kinetics of silicon dioxide decomposition onto silicon during thermal treatment, revealing a non-homogeneous process involving hole nucleation and opening.
A new study using MRI to examine pregnant women with short cervixes found that high cervical tissue mobility is associated with impending preterm birth. The researchers plan larger trials to confirm the role of this imaging biomarker in predicting preterm birth.
Researchers at the University of Washington have developed a sonar technology called FingerIO that allows users to interact with mobile devices by writing or gesturing on any nearby surface. The device uses sound waves to track fine-grained finger movements, achieving accuracy of up to 8mm.
A study published in The BMJ found that communicating genetic disease risk estimates has no significant effect on behavior change, including smoking cessation and physical activity. Despite high interest in personalized medicine, the research suggests that genetic testing may not motivate people to adopt healthier behaviors.
A study examines a lawsuit by Amarin Pharmaceutical that challenged the FDA's ban on promoting off-label uses of its product. The authors argue that such statements should be required to assert scientific facts beyond mere logical truth to regulate commercial speech about pharmaceuticals. They advocate for informative content based on ...
Experts warn that the UK government's new anti-lobbying clause could limit the ability of researchers funded by taxpayer money to influence policy and improve public health. The clause prioritizes private sector views over public health goals, potentially jeopardizing efforts to promote evidence-based decision-making.
Researchers at the University of Illinois identified clusters of genes that are associated with yield under crowding stress in sweet corn, finding that high-yielding hybrids utilize gene activities more directly related to carbohydrate accumulation. The study also found a common genetic basis for the yield response in six tested hybrids.
Researchers at the University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston found that smartphones can detect 90% of non-melanoma skin cancers and 60% of melanomas, improving diagnosis in remote areas. A DIY smartphone microscope can be made with a ball lens and tape, and additional studies are needed to enhance detection rates.
Researchers found that white storks rely on junk food from landfill sites for year-round sustenance, allowing them to establish resident populations. The closure of landfills may impact these birds' distribution, breeding locations, and migratory patterns.
Researchers confirm medullary bone, a gender-specific reproductive tissue found in birds, in a 68 million-year-old T. rex fossil. This discovery sheds light on the evolution of egg-laying in modern birds and provides a new tool for identifying dinosaur sex.
Jeffrey M. Friedman was honored for his discovery of leptin and the neural pathway that regulates feeding behavior, providing a foundation for understanding obesity and related pathologies. The award recognizes his translational research that has impacted our understanding of human biology and disease treatment.
New research published in the Journal of the Royal Society of Medicine suggests that austerity measures in England have been associated with significant increases in mortality rates among pensioners aged 85 and over. The study found a 1.4% rise in mortality for every 3% drop in pension credit spending per beneficiary.
Researchers found a maximum reduction of 52.4% in dry-eye symptoms using the repurposed drug, with some patients reporting complete resolution of symptoms. The treatment has antiangiogenic effects and offers distinct advantages over existing surgical removal methods.
Fossils from the Sima de los Huesos site in Northern Spain have provided genetic evidence that they belonged to early Neandertals. The analysis of nuclear DNA from two specimens has shown a close relationship with Neandertals, contradicting previous findings based on mitochondrial DNA.
The novel blood test detects misfolded Amyloid beta peptides in body fluids, revealing potential for early detection of Alzheimer's. The test has achieved high diagnostic precision with a sensitivity of up to 90% and is being further optimized in ongoing studies.
Scientists have found that repeated storms in 2013/14 were the most energetic to hit western Europe in almost seven decades, leading to extensive beach and dune erosion. The research also shows a growing trend of stormy conditions with potential changes to beaches along the continent.
A University of Illinois study found that including four key biophysical processes in computer models can estimate permafrost area and stability more accurately. The new model suggests that permafrost has declined more slowly than previously thought, and its release could impact climate change.
A critical review of over 100 studies on pain experience among Hispanic Americans reveals lower rates of chronic pain, but also greater pain sensitivity and less tolerance compared to non-Hispanic whites. The study highlights gaps in current research and calls for further investigation into the role of cultural factors and acculturation.
A study of over 30,000 women found that genetically elevated maternal body mass index and blood glucose levels are associated with higher offspring birth weight. In contrast, elevated maternal systolic blood pressure is linked to lower birth weight.
A new Penn study found that team-based incentives, combining individual and team performance rewards, nearly doubled the success rate of achieving exercise goals. Participants in this combined incentive group achieved their goal 35% of the time, compared to 17-18% for control and team incentive groups.
Researchers at NIST and ORNL have developed a new microwave imaging technique that allows for the visualization of processes occurring at boundaries between liquids and solids. This approach enables the study of technologically and medically important processes without damaging samples or interfering with the process being studied.
A University of Queensland-led study assesses the amount of carbon stored in tropical forests recovering after land-clearing practices in the Philippines. Regenerating secondary forests are substantial carbon sinks, increasing their capacity to store carbon with abandonment age.
Castro aims to develop novel immunotherapies for brain cancer using cutting-edge technology, including genetically engineered mouse models and gene transfer technologies. Her research focuses on understanding the tumor immune-microenvironment and its response to therapeutics.
A Clemson University study investigates the benefits of diverse agroecosystems in watermelon production. Native bees and wildflowers may complement honeybees to improve crop quality and yield. The research aims to find a simple way for farmers to attract native pollinators, potentially eliminating the need for domesticated honeybees.
Scientists from Hong Kong University of Science and Technology and University of Amsterdam observed a new phenomenon where 2D crystals premelt into a thin layer of liquid with constant thickness. This discovery challenges current understanding of melting behaviors and suggests that dimensionality plays a crucial role.
A global review of 58 studies involving over 77,000 E. coli samples found a high prevalence of antibiotic resistance in children's urinary tract infections, particularly in non-OECD countries. Previous antibiotic use increased the risk of resistance for up to six months after treatment.
Research suggests that if males traveling from far-off areas are less attractive to females, connectivity between populations can be greatly reduced. This finding has significant implications for conservation efforts, highlighting the need for better understanding of animal dispersal and habitat fragmentation.
Researchers review phosphonate-based matrix metalloproteinase inhibitors, which exhibit selective and potent activity on bone resorption. The authors propose these alternatives as a potential therapeutic target for chronic inflammation and cancer.