Sandia National Laboratories has built a scaled test assembly to mimic a dry cask storage container for spent nuclear fuel. The team is providing new data on how fuel temperatures change during storage and affect the integrity of the metal cladding surrounding the spent fuel.
Researchers found that climate plays a significant role in shaping river basins, with dry climates resulting in long and thin basins regardless of size. In contrast, larger humid basins are longer and thinner, while smaller humid basins are wider and shorter.
A study has identified 600 novel long noncoding RNA molecules that regulate the effects of androgens and androgen receptors on gene expression in prostate tumors. These lncRNAs are powerful regulators of gene expression and interact with and magnify the effect of regulatory proteins, suggesting a new target for treatment.
Researchers have developed an AI system that can identify and quantify cyanobacteria in water samples in about one to two hours, reducing the need for expensive lab tests. This tool could provide early warnings of problems, helping to ensure safe drinking water and preventing public health issues.
A recent study by SF State University's Marcela García-Castañon examines the role spousal relationships play in forming political identities among Mexican immigrants. García-Castañon found that spouses share information and help each other grasp nuances, paving the way for taking action.
A new study reveals that warming streams and rivers can significantly increase greenhouse gas emissions, particularly in agricultural lowland areas. The research highlights the need for land management strategies to reduce sediment rich in organic matter content and decrease groundwater abstraction.
A global study found that people infected with HIV are twice as likely to suffer from heart disease, with the greatest impact in sub-Saharan Africa and Asia Pacific regions. The study highlights the need for targeted treatments to maximize resources in countries with limited healthcare funding.
A study found a 65% increase in cirrhosis deaths and a doubling of liver cancer deaths among US adults between 1999 and 2016. Young people aged 25-34 experienced the highest average annual increase in cirrhosis deaths, driven by alcohol-related liver disease.
Researchers aim to create storage systems integrating synthetic biology with semiconductor technology, potentially storing 1,000 times more data than current capabilities. The goal is to develop devices with greater storage capacity and lower power usage.
A review of cannabinoids suggests they can stop cancer cells from dividing and invading normal tissue. Cannabinoids may also enhance the immune response against tumor growth and spread, providing potential new treatment options for cancer patients.
Researchers found that older women with high bitter-taste sensitivity had a significantly higher cancer risk, despite not consuming fewer vegetables. The study suggests that the relationship between bitter-taste sensitivity and cancer may relate more to overall diet quality than just vegetable consumption.
Resident physicians' home visits improve assessment of patient needs and effectiveness of discharge plans, highlighting the importance of community services and individualized care. The study aimed to teach residents how to develop comprehensive discharge plans with community agencies and resources.
A team of researchers has identified 40 new subtypes of retinal ganglion cells, shedding light on the molecular differences that distinguish them. The study, published in Nature Communications, provides a detailed census of RGCs and demonstrates the importance of single-cell RNA sequencing in understanding cell type identity.
Researchers have developed a low-cost, open-source field imaging system that enables real-time tracking of plant movement and lodging resistance. The system uses commercial hardware and electronics to capture high-quality videos of plant movement under windy conditions.
Researchers at Purdue University have developed a low-tech solution to improve the machinability of 'gummy' metals, such as nickel, aluminum, and copper. By coating these metals with a suitable adhesive or ink, cutting forces are reduced, resulting in smoother, cleaner cuts.
A comprehensive review study found that only two research stations account for 30% of cited studies in the Arctic region. The researchers highlight under-sampling of rapidly warming sites, particularly in the Canadian high-Arctic archipelago and Russia's Arctic coastline.
Researchers at Harvard University have developed an origami-inspired device, RAD, that can capture delicate sea creatures like jellyfish, squid, and octopuses without harming them. The device uses a folding polyhedral enclosure to trap organisms, allowing scientists to collect data and then release them unharmed.
A study published in The Journal of Bone & Joint Surgery found that patients taking prescription opioids for more than 60 days before total knee or hip replacement surgery are at higher risk of hospital readmission and repeat joint-replacement surgery. Prolonged opioid use was associated with an increased risk of both adverse outcomes,...
Researchers used satellite-based measurements to track changes in groundwater levels and storage capacity in the Central Valley aquifer system, revealing permanent loss of water storage capacity. The study provides new tools for water resource managers to monitor aquifers and mitigate the effects of drought.
A clinical trial found that adrenaline increases the survival rate of patients with cardiac arrests by less than 1%, but almost doubles the risk of severe brain damage for survivors. The study raises questions about the future use of adrenaline in such cases and its impact on patient outcomes.
A University of Montana researcher found that species diversity can have both a dilution effect and an amplification effect on disease transmission. In areas with more diverse rodent communities, hantavirus prevalence among deer mice decreases, but as rodent species diversity increases, infection spreads faster
The Suomi NPP satellite detected an elongated Tropical Storm Ampil in the Philippine Sea on July 18. The storm had cold cloud top temperatures near minus 80 degrees Fahrenheit, indicating potential for heavy rainfall and long-lived behavior.
Researchers have developed a new, less destructive teeth whitening method using blue light-activated nanoparticles. The treatment showed similar whitening levels to hydrogen peroxide-based agents without enamel damage or cytotoxicity. Additionally, the therapy demonstrated antibacterial activity against certain bacteria.
A new study by the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine found that Social Impact Bonds (SIBs) have a role in developing outcome-based contracting but are not a panacea for public service reform. SIBs were shown to be effective in providing personalized support and flexibility, but their impact on cost savings is limited.
A study by Maria Antonietta Ricci and colleagues found that fructose forms the shortest and strongest hydrogen bonds with water, allowing it to bind more snugly with protein receptors. This interaction enables greater stimulation and perception of sweetness. Mannose, on the other hand, forms longer and weaker hydrogen bonds with water.
Researchers analyzed protein and RNA from routine breast cancer tests to distinguish between cancer and benign lesions, yielding 100% accurate results. This method may also aid in subtyping breast cancer, determining therapy options, and monitoring disease progression.
The Interstellar Mapping and Acceleration Probe (IMAP) mission will investigate the heliosphere, surrounding our solar system, and collect data on particle acceleration and interaction with interstellar medium. The $492-million mission includes 10 instruments to resolve scientific questions about the solar wind and cosmic rays.
Ozone concentrations in US national parks are comparable to those in largest metropolitan areas between 1990 and 2014. Higher ozone levels are linked to decreased park visitation rates during this time period.
A new study published in Science Advances has shown that a decline in religion is linked to a country's future economic prosperity. Secularisation precedes economic development, but only when accompanied by tolerance for individual rights like abortion, divorce, and homosexuality.
The not-school movement is an alternative approach to education that recognizes individual learning needs and talents, providing options for students who struggle in traditional school environments. This movement emphasizes the importance of creativity, innovation, and real-world experience in education.
Researchers at Rockefeller University have discovered the molecular means by which some cancers caused by BRCA1 mutations evade treatment by PARP inhibitors. The study challenges previous assumptions about the mechanics of these drugs and provides a foundation for advancements in PARP inhibitor therapy.
Researchers have explained 'electron-hole reverse drag' and exciton formation using a multiband approach, revealing the bandgap's role in dual-layer graphene structures. This new understanding opens possibilities for ultra-low dissipation future electronics and room-temperature superfluid flow.
Berkeley Lab researchers have pioneered a nanoscale imaging technique to understand how local properties affect a material's macroscopic performance in water splitting. The study reveals heterogeneity in charge utilization, which may account for the material's efficiency.
A randomized controlled trial found that therapy dogs significantly improved attention and social skills in children with ADHD. The study also showed that the presence of therapy dogs enhanced traditional psychosocial intervention and is feasible and safe to implement.
A new study found that eating an early supper and having a long interval between the last meal and sleep are associated with lower breast and prostate cancer risks. Participants who had supper before 9pm or slept 2 or more hours after supper had a reduced risk of developing these cancers.
Researchers discovered that bacteria associated with beetles can produce an antifungal substance similar to one found in marine tunicates. The commonality is likely due to lateral gene transfer between unrelated microorganisms. This finding highlights the potential of defensive symbionts for innovation and human use.
The Suomi NPP satellite captured an image of Tropical Storm Son-Tinh with a small area of deep convection. The storm is expected to make landfall in northern Vietnam and slowly weaken as it tracks inland.
The risk of having a heart attack during pregnancy has increased by 25% among American women between 2002 and 2014, according to a new study. The study found that the death rate from heart attacks remains high despite advances in treating these conditions.
A new study found that a bundled-payment system did not lower Medicare costs for patients hospitalized for serious medical conditions. Despite providing financial incentives, hospitals saw no significant reductions in costs, with average costs remaining largely unchanged.
Researchers at Harvard University's Wyss Institute develop a novel, folding polyhedron sampler that safely traps soft-bodied sea creatures like jellyfish and squid. The RAD sampler uses a simple, modular design to capture organisms in their natural habitats without harm.
A new analysis reveals that lobbyists spent over $2 billion on influencing climate-related legislation in the US Congress between 2000 and 2016. The electrical utilities sector and fossil fuel companies dominated climate lobbying efforts, with spending peaking at $362 million in 2009.
A new study, based on a subgroup of KEEPS participants, found no effects of hormone therapy cessation on carotid artery intima-media thickness. The results support the use of hormone therapy for menopause symptom relief or bone loss prevention, with potential benefits on heart disease reduction.
A modified botulinum toxin compound Derm-BOT successfully targets and silences pain signals from neurons in the spinal cord of mice, providing long-lasting pain relief. The compound is non-toxic, safe to manufacture, and avoids adverse effects associated with opioids.
Researchers found that using stress balls or having hands held did not reduce anxiety, pain, or satisfaction in patients undergoing skin cancer surgery. The study of 135 patients showed no significant difference in outcomes between those who used stress balls or had their hands held.
A new study published in the British Journal of Surgery found that breath analyses can identify pancreatic cancer compounds. Researchers detected 12 specific volatile organic compounds indicative of pancreatic cancer, offering potential for early detection and treatment.
A team of researchers has uncovered a new protein complex called Shieldin that plays a critical role in normal cell division and cancer treatment. The complex shields broken DNA ends and controls the type of DNA repair system used by cells, making it vulnerable to targeting by PARP inhibitors and platinum-based chemotherapies.
HaloSat mission aims to search for the universe's missing matter by studying X-rays from hot gas surrounding the Milky Way galaxy. The satellite will help determine if the diffuse galactic halo is shaped more like a fried egg or a sphere, which will impact our understanding of the universe's mass and composition.
A team of scientists led by Craig DeForest used advanced algorithms and data-cleaning techniques to analyze images taken by NASA's STEREO spacecraft. They discovered fine-grained structures in the outer corona, which is the source of the solar wind. The study provides new insights into the Sun's million-degree atmosphere.
Researchers have discovered that the outer membrane of bacteria like E. coli can act as a strong physical barrier protecting the cell, making it a potential target for new antibacterial drugs. This finding suggests a new approach to fighting infections in roughly half of all bacterial species.
Scientists analyzed genomes of bioluminescent bacteria living in anglerfish bulbs, revealing a new paradigm of symbiosis. The bacteria have lost genes for making amino acids and breaking down nutrients, suggesting the fish supplies them with essential compounds.
The Journal of Nuclear Medicine's impact factor increased by 12% in 2017, ranking fifth among medical imaging journals. Citations to the journal rose from 24,977 to 27,101.
For adults with non-index seizures, ED neuroimaging is associated with a 3% change in patient management. Clinical factors like acute head trauma, prolonged consciousness, and focal neurological examination increase the yield of imaging tests.
A new analysis suggests using comprehensive cancer centers and case managers for improved care coordination. The study also proposes developing a distress checklist based on the National Comprehensive Cancer Network Guidelines.
A study found that the monoamine oxidase A gene is linked to self-assessed well-being and stress levels among men. The researchers suggest that genetics can influence social phenomena, and this connection may be significant for understanding human behavior.
A recent study by TUM and HMGU researchers found that mugwort pollen is the primary vector for bacteria, releasing endotoxins that trigger severe respiratory problems in asthma sufferers. The research team discovered a clear correlation between mugwort pollen and bacterial toxins in both urban and Alpine regions.
A world-first study found that regular sunscreen users in childhood reduced their risk of developing melanoma by 40 percent. The study analyzed data from nearly 1700 people and showed that sunscreen use was protective against melanoma in young people under 40 years old.
Researchers from Duke University found that single neurons can switch between encoding information for two different sounds, suggesting a potential explanation for how the brain processes complex information. The study's results may also shed light on perceptual and cognitive limitations.
A new study reveals a significant increase in liver deaths due to cirrhosis among young adults, with the highest fatalities among whites, American Indians, and Hispanics. The rise is attributed entirely to alcohol-related liver disease, highlighting the need for prevention strategies such as taxes on alcohol and reducing marketing.
Researchers have found that traditional Tibetan medicine (TTM) contains high levels of mercury and methylmercury, with Tibetans exposed to 34-fold higher daily intake than in regions specializing in mercury mining. This exposure results in the release of significant amounts of total mercury into municipal sewage and the environment.
The textile industry is exploring alternative coloring methods that minimize environmental impact, with companies developing dyes that require less water and energy. Innovative approaches like inkjet printing and microbial fermentation are being tested to create more sustainable fashion.