A review of bioprospecting studies identifies biosurfactant-producing microorganisms and sustainable production methods to manufacture low-cost biosurfactants from agro-industrial waste. The study highlights the advantages of biosurfactants over chemical counterparts, including higher biodegradability and lower toxicity.
A study by University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing found that 60% of child care centers do not have staff trained on the benefits of breastfeeding and human milk. The researchers recommend widespread education for child care providers and staff to ensure adherence to breastfeeding support guidelines.
A new study found that gender stereotypes are as strong today as they were 30 years ago, with people believing men avoid traditional female roles. Despite greater diversity, participants continued to strongly stereotype men and women on personality traits, gender role behaviors, occupations, and physical characteristics.
The first vertebrate to be sequenced in Spain, the Turbot has a highly developed sense of sight due to adapting to low light conditions. Its genes show high levels of fat in cellular membranes for cold tolerance, and researchers aim to use this knowledge for genetic selection programs and possible vaccines.
Research from North Carolina State University found that eusocial insects with larger colonies exhibit weaker immune responses. The study suggests that hygiene behaviors play a key role in keeping these insects healthy, rather than just immune systems.
A new review proposes using cheap and quick point-of-care tests to measure beta-amyloid levels in the blood, enabling doctors to deliver personalized care and improving patients' quality of life. The tests could be especially beneficial for patients in developing countries where access to healthcare is limited.
Researchers at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital found that maternal bacterial infections trigger abnormal proliferation of neurons in the fetal brain, leading to changes in cognitive functioning and increased risk of autism. Treatment with antibiotics like ampicillin may exacerbate these effects.
Innovative chemotherapy delivery methods for brain tumors are explored, including intra-arterial delivery, osmotic disruption, and implantable polymers. These strategies aim to enhance therapeutic agent distribution in the CNS, raising interest in the oncology community.
The Spotted Gar genome is a small and manageable genome that has conserved its genetic material over time, making it an out-group for evolutionary studies. The study reveals the conservation of key genes involved in enamel formation, providing clues to the evolutionary history of gene families and their role in human complex diseases.
Researchers found that subtle changes in the air-water interface shape near the surface of capillaries significantly impact drying rates. By controlling microstructure, drying time can be improved. The study's findings could lead to more efficient porous materials for various industries.
Vanderbilt researchers have identified a new antibody treatment for H7 avian flu with remarkable neutralizing potency, potentially offering short-term protection to people exposed or infected by the virus. The antibodies were isolated from human monoclonal antibodies generated in response to an experimental bird flu vaccine.
A new generation of anti-cancer drugs is being designed with an agent to inhibit resistance to their effectiveness. The research identified a specific mechanism to target drug pumps in cancer cells, leading to more effective treatment options. This breakthrough could improve outcomes for patients with therapy-resistant cancers.
Researchers developed a new photocatalyst system boosting hydrogen production by up to 3.5 times, using ferrite to enhance charge carrier separation and oxidative reaction kinetics.
A new Harvard University study suggests that early humans processed meat with stone tools to reduce chewing effort, allowing for a higher-quality diet and eventual emergence of hunting and gathering. By slicing meat and pounding vegetables, researchers found a significant reduction in the number of chews required per day.
A researcher at Indiana University has been awarded $1.1 million to develop information-based tools to improve primary care for patients with chronic pain, a condition affecting 100 million Americans annually. The project aims to create prototypes for clinical decision support and electronic health record management.
Researchers are testing SPI-1005, an oral drug containing ebselen, as a potential treatment for bipolar disorder. The treatment has shown promise in addressing the lack of effective options for patients with this condition.
Hailing Jin, a UC Riverside professor of plant pathology and microbiology, received $1.25 million from the National Institutes of Health to study small RNA machinery in plant immunity. She will also receive $700,000 from the National Science Foundation to investigate RNA trafficking pathways between pathogens and hosts.
Yale-New Haven Children's Hospital has reduced the average length of stay for infants with neonatal abstinence syndrome (NAS) from 28 days to 8.5 days through non-pharmacological care, resulting in $5.4 million savings. Morphine treatment was also decreased from 98% to 44%.
Researchers discovered Asian bat species have lower levels of infection and fungal loads compared to North American bats, suggesting host resistance as a possible explanation. This finding provides hope that some declining North American bat species could evolve resistance to the devastating disease.
A study found that gamers playing violent video games recalled 51% fewer corporate brand names than those playing the same game with nonviolent goals. The study also discovered that when players' goal is killing, they notice little else - including corporate brands.
A CWRU researcher is using plant viruses to detect and treat aggressive prostate and breast cancers. The lab will customize tobacco mosaic virus to target biomarkers of prostate cancer and deliver chemotherapy deep into breast tumor tissue.
A study in the American Journal of Pathology finds that serotonin deficiency is associated with worse rheumatoid arthritis (RA) symptoms and pathology in mice. Serotonin or its agonists can reduce RA effects, suggesting a new therapeutic target for this debilitating disease.
African-American adults are at higher risk of developing hypertension, with nearly half being at risk. Researchers from UTA aim to understand the underlying mechanisms and develop treatment strategies to combat hypertension.
Researchers use stable hydrogen isotope signatures to determine the origin and time of arrival for invasive Japanese beetles. The technique helps answer questions about control efforts and informs management decisions.
Ultra-processed foods contribute nearly 90% of all dietary added sugar intake, making up over half of the US calorie consumption. Research found a strong linear association between ultra-processed food intake and overall added sugar consumption.
A Concordia University study found that education and daily stair climbing can significantly slow down brain age, reducing the appearance of grey matter loss by 0.95 years per year of education and 0.58 years per flight of stairs climbed.
Researchers have developed a tailored small molecule that dramatically reduces brain damage after a stroke by inhibiting the production of hydrogen sulfide (H2S) in the brain. The study shows a 70% reduction in stroke severity when tested in rats.
Five scientists, including Jennifer Doudna and Emmanuelle Charpentier, received the Warren Alpert Foundation Prize for their work on CRISPR, a powerful tool for rapidly determining gene function and democratizing gene editing. The discovery has enormous potential for developing new therapies, including treatments for genetic diseases.
A UT Dallas study found that students who were bullied in third grade did not have a greater risk of using drugs or alcohol by ninth grade. However, children who experienced the highest level of victimization smoked cigarettes or used alcohol at higher rates than high school peers.
Researchers have created a 3D map of interstellar dust reddening across three-quarters of the visible sky using data from almost one billion stars. This map reveals the structure and history of our galaxy, including the distribution of dust in the disk and the presence of ghostly trails indicating collisions with other galaxies.
A new study suggests that mindful eating can improve glucose levels and heart health, even beyond weight loss. Researchers found greater improvements in cardiometabolic outcomes tied to Type 2 Diabetes and cardiovascular disease with a mindfulness-based weight-loss intervention.
A new eight-week intervention program, called the Early Childhood Friendship Project (ECFP), has been shown to significantly reduce relational bullying and aggressive behavior in preschoolers. The ECFP uses puppets, stories, and activities to teach social skills and empathy.
A Norwegian study found that women who experienced childhood sexual abuse are 22% more likely to stop breastfeeding before four months. Women exposed to multiple types of violence have a 41% greater chance of stopping early. Breastfeeding helps mothers' health, but trauma can hinder it.
Almost one-third of lemurs in Madagascar are kept as illegal pets, posing a threat to conservation efforts. Investigators found 302 captive lemur sightings and 15% of hotels with illegal captive lemurs advertised to tourists.
A new study by the University of Houston found that supervisor and co-worker attitudes significantly impact working mothers' decisions to breastfeed. Women with supportive supervisors were eight times more likely to continue exclusive breastfeeding. The study highlights the importance of workplace climate in supporting breastfeeding mo...
A study by Penn State researchers found that older adults who recalled more robots in films had lower anxiety toward robots. The researchers suggest that incorporating features reminiscent of Hollywood portrayals, such as human-like interfaces and sympathetic designs, may ease apprehension toward robots.
A team of researchers is using computational models and data from actual patients to understand C. difficile colonization and infection. They aim to develop tools to prevent and treat infections that kill thousands annually.
A study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that dihydroartemisinin-piperaquine (DP) was effective in preventing malaria in pregnancy, with no reported cases among women taking monthly doses. The therapy showed better results than sulfadoxine-pyrimethamine (SP), a widely used but ineffective option due to widespread ...
A study of 31,951 US veterans found that older adults initiating warfarin therapy for atrial fibrillation are at increased risk of traumatic intracranial bleeding. Several factors, including dementia and labile INR, were identified as risk contributors.
A new Scripps Research Institute study has identified specific genetic variations associated with increased susceptibility to bipolar disorder and other conditions. The research focuses on a gene called PDE10A, which produces proteins that regulate intracellular levels of cAMP, influencing biological processes like learning and memory.
Research reveals widespread use of meldonium among elite athletes, with up to 490 athletes taking the substance during the Baku 2015 European Games. The study highlights that meldonium was detected in athletes competing in 15 out of 21 sports and that its use was significantly underreported.
Researchers found that early childhood is a protected period from the negative effects of disadvantaged neighborhoods on health outcomes. The study suggests that increasing intervention during this time could ensure cardio-metabolic health in the future.
Researchers at Cardiff University have successfully transplanted human stem cells into rabbits with corneal blindness, repairing the front of the eye and restoring vision. The study demonstrates the generation of multiple eye tissues, including the lens, cornea, and conjunctiva, from human induced pluripotent stem cells.
Researchers found that dose-dense adjuvant chemotherapy significantly improved overall survival after ten years by nearly a third compared to standard interval regimens. Dose-dense chemotherapy was not associated with an increased risk of treatment-induced amenorrhea, and it seemed effective irrespective of hormone receptor status.
A report by an expert panel highlights the need for new approaches to tackle the US opioid epidemic, including multimodal pain management and optimizing health outcomes. The panel also emphasizes the importance of collaboration between healthcare providers, patient advocates, and legislators to address this growing public health issue.
Research by UTHealth found that hot weather significantly impacts the health of migratory farmworkers, with a higher likelihood of visiting clinics on hot days. The study suggests heat stress may be more significant in Texas due to its hotter summers.
The new laser-based tracking system HYPERION enables aircraft and UAVs to transmit vital data securely and efficiently. With its optimised range of 1km and potential to extend this, HYPERION could aid disaster relief efforts by allowing for real-time access to mission data.
Researchers have elucidated new factors influencing particle deposition via solvent evaporation, crucial for microchip production. The study found that interplay between solvent convection and nanoparticle collective diffusion governs particle recede at contact lines.
A Georgia Tech study found that Instagram's ban on pro-eating disorder terms led to communities rallying around censored words, driving up participation by 30%. Researchers suggest allowing banned terms to be searchable with recovery-related links or tweaking search algorithms instead.
A new study from the University of Bristol finds that educational neuroscience lacks concrete benefits for teaching and child progress in classrooms. The research criticizes the use of brain scans and other methods without solid evidence to support their effectiveness.
Researchers developed a statistical model to predict in-hospital mortality after TAVR based on over 13,000 patients. The model includes factors like age, glomerular filtration rate, and hemodialysis, providing valuable information for patient counseling and quality improvement.
A new computational method, CORDA, models tissue-specific metabolic pathways by assigning a cost to reactions without experimental data. Researchers found key differences in metabolic similarities between healthy and cancerous tissues, including up-regulation of folate metabolism.
Assistant Professor Voot Yin has identified the role of microRNA miR-101a in stimulating heart muscle cell growth and removing scar tissue. This breakthrough research holds promise for developing new drugs to regenerate damaged heart tissue and potentially treating other diseases involving muscle damage.
A new study published in The Lancet suggests that a low-cost, urine test to diagnose tuberculosis among patients with HIV could save thousands of lives per year in sub-Saharan Africa. The test, which provides results in 25 minutes and costs $2.66, showed an absolute reduction of 4% in TB death rate among patients with HIV.
A new trial found that full-dose radiotherapy to the whole breast is not necessary for women with low-risk early breast cancer. The study showed very low rates of local recurrence and minimal side effects across all treatment groups, suggesting that partial breast radiotherapy may be sufficient for many patients.
Majorana zero modes are present and protected in a superconducting state, storing quantum information in a way that leaves the quantum state intact when either location is disturbed. This finding verifies previous experiments and goes further by showing that Majorana modes are protected as predicted theoretically.
A two-drug preventive treatment reduces the severity of malaria during pregnancy, providing a reliable alternative to standard treatment. The study found that the treatment reduced the risk of adverse birth outcomes and placental malaria.
A new study found that younger grandmothers face different needs and require unique types of support to manage depression and improve their mental health quality of life. The study suggests that age affects the effectiveness of social support services, highlighting the need for tailored interventions.
Research published in Evolutionary Biology has found that dingoes are resistant to changes in their skull shape resulting from cross-breeding with domestic dogs. The study used CT scans and 3D shape analyses to determine that hybrid skulls are indistinguishable from those of pure dingoes.
Disney researchers create a low-cost, handheld depth sensor system for capturing 3-D models of marine life with millimeter accuracy. The system corrects for refraction effects and supports coral reef restoration efforts in the Bahamas.
Researchers discovered altered heart rate variability in children with epilepsy, suggesting a connection to the autonomic nervous system. The study suggests that changes in parasympathetic tone may precede epilepsy onset, offering potential biomarkers for diagnosis and new treatment avenues.
Scientists have developed a new imaging technique that can detect diseases earlier with enhanced sensitivity, allowing for earlier diagnosis and treatment. The technique uses probes that light up specific targets inside cells, enabling researchers to track changes in molecular make-up of tissues.
A study at the University of Exeter found that young people who self-harm only seek emergency hospital care when their injuries are too serious or when complications arise. They experience punitive treatment and intense negative emotions, reinforcing feelings of shame and self-loathing.
The Massachusetts General Hospital research team discovered a crucial interaction between intermediate filaments and the Shigella injection protein IpaC, required for efficient delivery of effector proteins into host cells. This finding suggests that similar mechanisms may apply to other pathogens using type 3 secretion systems.
Scientists have discovered five new limestone sea stacks, or 'Drowned Apostles', 50m beneath the water's surface 6km off Victoria's southern coast. The unexpected find challenges normal erosion rates and provides insights into the region's reef ecosystems.
A medical approach combining psychoactive medications, long-term psychotherapy, and screening for associated health issues is recommended for treating posttraumatic symptoms in refugees. This approach provides rapid relief from suffering and supports a long-term doctor-patient relationship.
The study analyzed over 20 billion reports from 4 million machines worldwide, ranking countries by their vulnerability to cyberattacks. The US ranked 11th safest, while Scandinavian countries were found to be the least vulnerable.
Scientists have designed a new vaccine that increases anti-nicotine antibodies, delaying nicotine's effects in mice. This approach shows promise for reducing cravings and aiding smokers in quitting
The Genetics Society of America is announcing its inaugural class of PALM Network Spring 2016 Fellows. These fellows are working with mentors to develop and implement evidence-based active learning strategies in their classrooms, aiming to catalyze enduring change in teaching culture at their institutions.
Researchers discover small peptides psaptides that can force tumors to regress by stimulating an anti-angiogenic response in healthy tissues. Psaptides mimic the naturally occurring human protein prosaposin, which stimulates immune cells to produce a potent anti-inflammatory protein called thrombospondin-1.
Boxmate systematically generates program inputs to investigate regular behavior, logging critical data access and resources. This approach catches hidden attacks and prevents them from executing, making malicious programs exposed and unusable.
A study of over 550 Australian children found that girls were 19% less active than boys, with lower fitness levels and weaker home and school support. The authors suggest strategies to increase physical activity for girls should focus on home, school, and extracurricular activities
A groundbreaking study led by Dr. Dagmar Krüger has revealed that the human gut's secretory capacity does not decline with age, contradicting long-held assumptions. The research team examined over 2200 specimens from 450 patients with bowel disease and found no correlation between intestinal secretion and age or gender.
Researchers developed a molecule that can inhibit an enzyme linked with the onset of stroke, reducing brain damage by as much as 66 percent. The inhibitor, known as 6S, works by binding to cystathionine beta-synthase and reducing inflammation in stroke patients.
Researchers identified two synthetic compounds that can restore the effectiveness of antibiotics against MRSA by blocking an enzyme involved in bacterial cell wall production. When paired with existing antibiotics, these compounds significantly improved survival rates and reduced infection severity in mice infected with MRSA.
A new study from the University of Pennsylvania found that therapists working as independent contractors in public mental health clinics reported less willingness to adopt evidence-based psychosocial practices and had lower knowledge about them compared to salaried employees. This shift may be driven by budgetary reasons, with agencies...
A team of scientists at the University of Bonn discovered a switch that can convert unwanted white fat cells into energy-burning brown cells by blocking Gq proteins. This breakthrough has significant implications for obesity treatment, as it may lead to the development of pharmaceutical products that target this pathway.
A newly discovered Microwhip scorpion fossil from the Mesozoic period has been found in Burmese amber. The fossil, named Electrokoenenia yaksha, is a tiny, yellowish creature that lived alongside dinosaurs 100 million years ago.
A team of UTA engineering and business school graduates has designed a Build-Teach-Play Robots package to stimulate STEM learning in kindergarten through 12th grades. The project aims to expose students to pathways in science, technology, math and engineering fields.
A new study reveals that warmer spring temperatures have a significant impact on upper Colorado River flows, reducing them more than previously recognized. This finding has implications for drought management and climate modeling, which suggests that warming temperatures will exacerbate drought conditions in the Western US.
A study of army ants led by Drexel University professor Sean O'Donnell found that certain species regained vision and developed larger brains after moving back to the surface. The ants' brains showed increased investment in visual processing, smell, and overall cognitive function compared to underground-dwelling relatives.
The Materials Innovation Platforms (MIPs) program aims to accelerate materials research and development, enabling the discovery of new materials, techniques, and instrumentation. The program focuses on crystal growth, oxide and 2D materials, and will advance a focused research area of national importance.
Researchers are investigating the unhealthy connection between excess fat and cardiovascular disease to identify new treatment avenues. They aim to understand why visceral fat exacerbates cardiovascular problems by stimulating the production of aldosterone, a hormone linked to high blood pressure and diabetes.
A new treatment approach has been developed to remove congenital cataracts in infants and allow remaining stem cells to regrow functional lenses. The method produced fewer surgical complications and resulted in superior visual function compared to the current standard-of-care.
Researchers at Kobe University discovered a gene that neutralizes toxic byproducts of photosynthesis, enabling plants to 'breathe' and grow under stress. The AOR gene protects nighttime respiration, allowing plants to reach normal size and weight in stressful conditions.
Researchers found that practicing movements at different speeds improves certain nerve functions, particularly for patients with spasticity after a stroke or spine injury. The study suggests tailoring physical therapy routines to reflect the type of neural circuit controlling the movement for optimal rehabilitation outcomes.
A new study combines optical coherence tomography (OCT) with near-infrared autofluorescence (NIRAF) imaging to identify fibroatheromas, advanced lesions prone to rupture. The technique provided more accurate information on molecular composition and inflammation in arterial plaques.
Adding tomosynthesis or ultrasound scans to standard mammograms detects more breast cancers in women with dense breasts. These imaging technologies picked up an extra 24 cancers, improving detection rates.
Soil is an effective carbon sink, and adopting new farming practices like cover crops and no-till farming can enhance its organic matter, boosting carbon content. This approach has direct benefits to farmers, including reduced soil erosion and increased resilience to drought.
The cloud-based virtual globe portal offers unprecedented speed and ease of use for visualizing Earth's geological evolution. It features interactive reconstructions of supercontinents and 3D visualizations of seafloor geology, allowing users to explore how the planet has changed over time.
Researchers will investigate genetic mechanisms controlling polyphenism in nematode worms, a phenomenon where species develop different physical traits based on their environment. The study aims to understand how environmental inputs trigger developmental 'switches' that enable accelerated evolution.
Research found parasitoid wasps can convert up to 90% of prey body mass into biomass, contradicting previous estimates of food chain lengths.
A four-month study of 94 young adult college students found that 52% fell at least once, with 16% resulting in injury, while physical activity levels increased fall rates. The most common cause of falls was talking while walking, highlighting the cognitive demand of multi-tasking on balance and stability.
Researchers use satellite data to quantify cloud base updraft speeds and aerosol particles' ability to create cloud droplets, providing critical information for understanding climate change. The study aims to reduce the uncertainty around global warming estimates by 1.5 to 4.5 degrees by the end of the 21st century.
A new mechanism reveals counterintuitive rules for individual movement in crowds, with implications for controlling active systems, such as nanoparticle delivery and crowd security. Researchers plan to apply their findings to develop intelligent nanorobots for drug-delivery and environmental sustainability.
A team of international scientists has demonstrated a novel approach for designing fully reconfigurable magnetic nanopatterns using thermal scanning probe lithography. This method offers researchers the opportunity to control magnetism at the nanoscale, enabling the development of novel metamaterials and computing devices.
A Kansas State University researcher found that an integrated approach to address hot topics like substance use, obesity, and mental health is critical for teen health. The research involved a mixed-methods approach, collecting data from online surveys, community focus groups, and interviews with key individuals.
A University of Illinois Chicago researcher found that scientists with financial ties to firms that make, use, or dispose of industrial and commercial products are less likely to find adverse health risks. In contrast, authors employed by the military reported negligible risks in 64% of studies.
A study published in PLOS ONE found that meditation and ballet practices are associated with increased wisdom. Meditation was confirmed as a path to wisdom, while classical ballet also showed a link to higher wisdom levels among practitioners. The research suggests that physical practices like ballet may cultivate personal wisdom.
Researchers at Stanford University have discovered a novel way to produce plastic from CO2 and plant waste, which could significantly reduce greenhouse emissions. The new technology converts fructose-free biomass into polyethylene furandicarboxylate (PEF), a promising alternative to petroleum-based plastics.
Researchers found that a family-focused package of services can significantly reduce mother-to-child transmission of HIV in resource-limited areas. The study showed a 74% reduction in infant infections in the intervention group compared to the control group.
Max Planck Florida scientists have optimized techniques for studying motor learning in neurons of the cerebellum, enabling prolonged assessment of neural activity. This breakthrough allows for further characterization of continuously engaged neurons during motor activity and normal behavior.
Researchers explore storing water on Antarctica to delay sea-level rise, but conclude it's unlikely to mitigate the problem due to the enormous weight and distance required. They emphasize the need for rapid greenhouse-gas emission reductions and substantial investment in long-term local coastal protection.
Children born prematurely show poorer reading and maths skills, with effects lasting into adulthood. A new study found that additional support, rather than delayed entry, is needed to help preterm children succeed.
A study of 1,040 Quebeckers found that nearly half were interested in at least one type of anomalous sexual behavior, with some behaviors more common than thought. The research suggests a distinction between paraphilic sexual behavior and disorders, and challenges the DSM-5's classification.
Fish populations that gather and spawn in large groups face growing threats from overexploitation and inadequate management. Insufficient regulation allows a few active boats to deplete these vulnerable populations, while changing economic conditions may lead to rapid species declines.
Researchers found that modern corn hybrids maintain per-plant yield in environments with low nitrogen, can recover from mid-season stress, and take up nitrogen after silking. This suggests reserving a portion of nitrogen fertilizer for later application could be beneficial for growers.
A study found that people newly diagnosed with MS are more likely to have depression and other chronic conditions. The study also showed that the rates of these conditions differ between men and women with MS.
A study found that HIV patients in Africa with a certain genetic variant have a 63-percent lower chance of developing tuberculosis than those without the variant. This discovery may lead to the development of new TB treatments effective for both HIV-positive individuals and the general population.
Scientists discovered that surface vibrations in nanomaterials significantly affect their behavior, impacting applications such as solar cells. The researchers found that suppressing these vibrations can lead to higher photocurrent and efficiency in solar cells.
Researchers found that human activities have transformed the land biosphere into a contributor to climate change by overwhelming its ability to soak up carbon dioxide. This discovery reverses conventional thinking on human impacts on terrestrial carbon uptake.
A new study by University of Illinois engineers found that the transistor laser device can switch faster than traditional technologies due to photon-assisted tunneling, enabling ultra-high-speed signal modulation. The technology has the potential to revolutionize big data transfer and computing.
Researchers at Thomas Jefferson University discovered that malfunctioning mitochondria can cause cell death due to excessive calcium uptake, leading to heart attacks and strokes. Inhibiting this calcium overload could provide a novel treatment strategy for these conditions.