A Norwegian university research programme has increased the proportion of doctors who pursue a PhD tenfold and those aspiring to an academic career. The programme provides a specialized track for medical students, giving them a head start as active researchers.
A dolutegravir-based regimen is likely to increase life expectancy by nearly three years and reduce new HIV infections by 23 percent in India. This could be achieved without increasing the country's HIV/AIDS budget.
New research suggests that reducing food product portion sizes can recalibrate perceptions of normal food intake, leading to decreased consumption. The study found that participants who were served smaller portions chose to eat less in future experiments.
The Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute (PCORI) Board has approved $74 million in funding for nine new comparative clinical effectiveness research studies. These studies will investigate various conditions that impose significant burdens on patients, caregivers, and the healthcare system.
A new study published in PNAS found that children raised in rural environments with animals have more stress-resilient immune systems and lower risk of mental illness than pet-free city dwellers. The research supports the 'hygiene hypothesis,' which posits that overly sterile environments can breed health problems.
The Australian Mountain Ash ecosystem experienced significant declines in tree populations and animal biodiversity following logging and fire events. Prolonged periods of decline and slow recovery were also observed after disturbance events.
Researchers at Moffitt Cancer Center used mathematical modeling to show that adaptive drug treatments based on tumor responses are more effective than maximum-tolerated dose approaches. The approach can be tailored to specific tumor types, such as melanoma and breast cancer, and may lead to better patient outcomes.
A study on genetically diverse worms reveals that a small protein called FLP-18 controls the length of their backward movement, which increases the likelihood of changing direction to navigate towards food. This mechanism may help the worm explore a larger area during periods of extreme hunger.
In a study published in Animal Behaviour, researchers found that male brown widow spiders prefer to mate with older, less-fertile females who are more likely to cannibalize them after sex. This surprising preference for older females suggests that males may be making decisions based on factors other than fertility.
Scientists from GFZ and universities reconstructed past changes in Earth's magnetic field using paleomagnetic data. They found that the South Atlantic Anomaly is unlikely to be a precursor of a pole reversal, as it was followed by increased field strength and disappearance of similar anomalies in the past.
Researchers found degraded coral reefs are quieter than five years ago, with 40% fewer juvenile fishes attracted compared to healthy reefs. The loss of reef sounds could have devastating consequences for reefs, as fish play critical roles in maintaining their health.
The International Thwaites Glacier Collaboration aims to understand the likelihood, timing, and magnitude of glacier collapse. The collaboration will deploy scientists with advanced equipment to measure ice-volume or ice-mass change in the region.
Researchers identified a subset of healthier T cells, marked by CD8 and CD27 expression, that correlate with clinical responses in CLL patients. The findings suggest a new patient-selection tool for CAR T cell therapy and potential improvements through emerging cell manufacturing techniques.
Researchers have identified FoxM1 as a potential target for treating pulmonary hypertension, a severe lung disease with a 50% five-year survival rate. Deleting the FoxM1 gene in mice resulted in thinner artery walls and improved right heart function.
Research suggests a link between moderate to severe mid-life anxiety and later life dementia, with potential benefits from non-pharmacological therapies such as mindfulness and meditation. The findings support previous evidence of mental illness being associated with dementia in older age.
A new study shows that farming fish can help meet the world's future protein demands while reducing land use, with potential savings of up to 747 million hectares globally. The research highlights the efficiency of aquatic animals in converting feed to biomass for human consumption.
Researchers have created a rat model that can be used to study the buildup of amyloid plaques and vascular abnormalities in the brain, two key traits of Alzheimer's disease. The model, which uses human APP and PS1 proteins, has shown poor memory and learning in rats, similar to those observed in humans suffering from Alzheimer's.
A new study reveals that the tobacco industry successfully manipulated UNICEF's focus on tobacco control for children, reducing its emphasis on a tobacco-free life. The agency was influenced by big tobacco's lobbying efforts, leading to less stringent measures against tobacco use among youth.
Researchers at McLean Hospital found that elevated levels of certain lipids in the brain are associated with Parkinson's disease. The study suggests that lipid alterations may precede some of the disease's hallmark features and could provide an early warning sign for patients.
A new study found that intermittent bright light exposure at night can cause significant phase shifts in the body's internal clock, but not necessarily melatonin suppression. This challenges the common assumption that one can be used as a proxy measure for the other.
A recent study by University of Guam researcher Ann Marie Gawel suggests that feral pigs might be an unlikely forest ally in regenerating native plant species on the island. Pigs were found to have a positive impact on seed dispersal in limestone karst forests, whereas deer had negative effects.
Researchers found that walking the course provides significantly higher health benefits and is not associated with increased pain or inflammation. Golfing while riding a cart still offers cardiovascular benefits, but walking is the superior option.
Researchers have found that blood biopsies provide highly detailed genetic information that agrees well with bone marrow tests. This breakthrough could lead to more personalized treatment plans for patients with multiple myeloma, as the disease's progression can vary over time.
A new approach to hearing assessment has been developed and validated, focusing on whether public safety professionals can perform 'hearing-critical' job tasks in specific noise environments. The method takes into account real-world noise environments and provides an objective means of occupational hearing screening.
The Sleep Research Society has selected three leading sleep scientists to receive its 2018 awards. David F. Dinges, Chiara Cirelli, and Sharon A. Keenan will be honored for their groundbreaking contributions to the field of sleep and circadian science.
Introduced species are deliberately excluded from biodiversity reports, distorting international nature reports and the public's view of nature. The study recommends including their positive contributions to accurately track the state of biodiversity and its evolution.
The UK loses 86 million workdays to migraine annually, costing the economy £8.8 billion. The condition affects over 23% of adults with nearly 200,000 attacks daily.
A new technique enhances power output of single-mode lasers, enabling terahertz spectroscopy applications. The technique introduces a hybrid second- and fourth-order Bragg grating in the laser's optical cavity.
A new study led by St. Michael's Hospital maps the potential risk of yellow fever virus spread to cities around the world, analyzing travel patterns and environmental conditions. The research highlights the need for countries to reexamine their policies to prevent yellow fever virus importation, protect travelers, and prevent exportation.
The Gulf of Oman has been found to have a vast and growing oxygen minimum zone, with an area larger than Scotland having almost no oxygen left. Climate change and pollution are exacerbating the issue, threatening marine life and human reliance on the oceans.
A North Carolina State University study found that two fish species, western blacknose dace and creek chub, evolved different body shapes in response to urbanization. The study showed that the dace became more streamlined, while the chub developed deeper bodies in urban areas. Lab experiments confirmed that genetic differences played a...
Researchers at Boston University School of Medicine identified ubiquitin-fusion degradation 1 (UFD1) as a key protein in aggressive T-cell leukemia. Reducing UFD1 levels by 50% inhibited leukemia development without impacting healthy tissues.
Researchers discovered that GLP-1 receptor agonists can selectively reduce cocaine-seeking without causing nausea. The study used FDA-approved medications for diabetes and obesity treatment, such as Exendin-4, to treat cocaine addiction. Low doses of the medication reduced cocaine-seeking behaviors in rats.
Brazilian researchers use human tissue samples from victims of the Hiroshima bombing to measure radiation dose absorbed by bones. The study confirms the feasibility of this method and opens up possibilities for future research, clarifying details of the nuclear attack.
A new study developed a novel risk tool to predict 30-day readmission rates in patients undergoing transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR). The tool calculates a score based on several variables, including chronic kidney disease, anemia, and discharge disposition, with a c-statistic of 0.63.
A contemporary real-world analysis of culprit vessel-only intervention (CVI) versus multivessel intervention (MVI) in patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI) and cardiogenic shock (CS) found lower mortality rates for CVI. The study, presented at the Society for Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions 2018 Scientific Sessio...
A Kyoto University researcher has captured the first Yanbaru whiskered bat in Okinawa since its discovery in 1996. The critically endangered species was found to have a range-restricted habitat within the Yanbaru Forest, highlighting the need for conservation efforts.
Researchers found that positive family climate and effective parenting strategies during adolescence can lead to better problem-solving skills and less-violent romantic relationships as young adults. Positive engagement with parents is also associated with feelings of love and connection in young adult relationships.
Argonne researchers Lawrence Harding, Albert Wagner, Stephen Klippenstein, and James Miller have been inducted as fellows of The Combustion Institute. Their pioneering work has led to significant advances in understanding the chemistry of combustion. The recognition highlights the importance of U.S. Department of Energy Basic Energy Sc...
A significant update to the PROGRESS-CTO International Registry reveals successful outcomes of Chronic Total Occlusion Percutaneous Intervention (CTO PCI) for over 3,000 patients. The study found high success rates with acceptable complications, supporting its use in experienced centers.
Researchers have developed a gene therapy approach to treat GM2 gangliosidosis, a devastating neurodegenerative disease. The treatment has shown promising results in mouse models and is now being tested in clinical trials using recombinant Adeno-associated viruses for gene transfer.
Researchers at the U.S. Army Research Laboratory developed a new technology that allows soldiers to learn 13 times faster than conventional methods, potentially saving lives. This technique uses low-cost hardware and collaborative filtering to achieve a significant speedup in training compared to state-of-the-art systems.
The Foundation for Food and Agriculture Research has awarded a $5 million grant to Texas A&M AgriLife Research to develop and adopt water and energy-efficient irrigation technologies. The grant will be matched by project partners, totaling $10 million over five years. Researchers will focus on precision application systems, weather pre...
A recent study found significant differences in nutrient levels and species composition between Devils Hole and a constructed scale replica at the Ash Meadows Fish Conservation Facility. The findings suggest that modifications to the refuge's operation could improve the prospects for continued survival of the critically endangered Devi...
Researchers at Kumamoto University developed a new catalyst that improves NH3 combustibility and suppresses NOx generation. The catalyst allows for the decomposition of NH3 into H2 with low ignition temperature and purification through oxidation.
Researchers at University of Strathclyde and Capital Normal University have developed a new source of intense terahertz radiation with unprecedented efficiency. This breakthrough could lead to new advances in science and technology, including the identification of normally hidden phenomena and unique control of matter.
Researchers at the University of Bristol have developed a method to enhance red blood cell transfusion compatibility using CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing. By altering specific blood group genes, they can prevent immune reactions in patients with rare blood types or those requiring frequent transfusions.
Researchers discovered that two amino acids in the guard cells' protein SLAC1 enable grasses to quickly close their stomata and prevent water loss. This mechanism allows grasses to adapt better to drought, making them more suitable for water-scarce regions.
Researchers used supercomputer simulations to study the behavior of mantle plumes, a key factor in volcanic formation. The study provided new insights into how plumes interact with seismic waves and could help guide future experiments on the ocean floor.
Biologist Judy Simon develops a system to observe interactions between tree roots in 3D, enabling the study of nitrogen uptake and communication. The transparent substrate allows for the observation of root activities, potentially contributing to sustainable forest management.
A UCI-led study finds that tropical forests respond to higher CO2 by reducing water vapor, leading to drought in the Amazon and increased rainfall in Indonesia. This process can have significant impacts on biodiversity, freshwater availability, and food supplies.
A new study at Boston Medical Center aims to bridge a gap in care for patients with substance use disorders by linking them with trained peer recovery coaches. The project, Project RECOVER, will provide support and sustain recovery for up to six months through interventions delivered by certified peer coaches.
A NUS-led study reveals that a beltway in Sao Paulo diverted heavy-duty diesel vehicles, reducing public health damage from diesel emissions. The intervention led to a sustained drop in nitrogen oxides levels and improved air quality.
Kyoto University scientists have developed a shape-memory effect in porous materials, which can change and retain their shapes. The new material, with a porosity of 46%, has been shown to adsorb carbon dioxide and retain its shape after multiple cycles.
Researchers at UC Davis developed a new technique using conventional digital camera technology to measure brain blood flow. The method, called interferometric diffusing wave spectroscopy, boosts the signal to detect fluctuations in blood motion, providing valuable information about blood flow.
The Texas Advanced Computing Center (TACC) is developing innovative software solutions to enhance scientific productivity. Their interactive parallelization tool, IPT, enables researchers to convert serial code into parallel code using tens of thousands of processors, achieving significant speed-ups and user productivity enhancements. ...
Researchers found that bacteria in Pseudomonas aeruginosa colonies produce dual signal responses to antibiotic tobramycin, including a localized and community-wide response. This communication may enable the bacteria to develop tolerance to some antibiotics.
Scientists have successfully engineered defects in diamonds to store and transfer quantum information, a crucial step towards quantum computing. The technique uses vibrations from a mechanical resonator to stabilize optical properties, enabling the manipulation of electron orbitals.
Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injection has shown positive aesthetic outcomes in facial rejuvenation, hair regrowth, and acne scar treatment. However, the research evidence is limited due to inconsistent PRP preparation and injection techniques, lack of standardized assessments, and short follow-up periods.
Scientists at OIST have developed stable and efficient perovskite solar cells that could revolutionize the solar industry. The new material is made of inorganic components, making it more heat-stable than previous versions.