RSNA makes strides in narrowing radiology gender gap
Despite progress, radiology's gender gap persists due to structural biases. RSNA's efforts have increased female representation in faculty and leadership positions.
Research Organizations
News from the institutes and societies that organize science. Covers scientific medals, university-hospital partnerships, oncology cooperatives, and society leadership.
nTIDE July 2024 Deeper Dive: ‘ADA Generation’ drives employment gains for people with disabilities
The 'ADA generation' working-age population with disabilities shows a higher employment-to-population ratio compared to the non-ADA generation. The data suggests progress in closing the employment gap between individuals with and without disabilities, largely driven by the ADA generation's presence in the labor market.
Study examines the impact of social connections and professional networks of NAPCRG members in driving scientific success
The study used social network analysis to examine the impact of social connections among NAPCRG members on their scientific success. The research found that strong professional networks are crucial for driving scientific advancements, emphasizing the need for continued support and development of these connections.
People in their 50s are at higher amputation risk than older people after leg surgery
A study published in Circulation found that adults aged 50-54 with severely narrowed leg arteries had a higher risk of amputation after emergency surgery than those aged 80-84. This contradicts the traditional belief that older people are at increased risk.
Genome study informs restoration of American chestnut tree
A genome study has identified regional adaptations in American chestnut trees, informing restoration efforts and climate resilience. The research provides guidance for conserving genetic diversity across the Appalachian region, with a focus on preserving the most genetically diverse southern population.
Breastfeeding priorities most important to parents
A collaborative effort between The Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine and Reaching our Sisters Everywhere identified key components of a successful breastfeeding journey as defined by parents and families. The findings aim to inform research priorities and promote patient-centered outcomes in infant and young-child feeding.
SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalBreastfeeding Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateJul 17, 2024
Logged forests still have ecological value – if not pushed too far
Researchers found that forests with less than 29% biomass loss retain high biodiversity and ecological value. Above 68% removal, serious conservation is needed to maintain biodiversity.
Texas A&M research collaboration uncovers how domestic rabbits become feral in the wild
Researchers at Texas A&M University uncovered how domestic rabbits become feral in the wild through natural selection. They found that all European, South American, and Oceania rabbits had a mix of feral and domestic DNA, explaining why they quickly adapted to living in the wild.
UMass Amherst awarded $2.1 million to advance the science of engagement in community-academic research partnerships
The study aims to empower underrepresented populations in health research through a novel approach called engagement mapping, which identifies barriers to research partnerships and co-designs strategies to address them. The pilot study will test the feasibility of this approach with community advisory councils at two institutions.
UCF launches inaugural mentorship, scholarship initiative for students in AI
UCF's STRONG-AI initiative aims to uplift bright, low-income undergraduate students in pursuing well-rounded AI education through faculty and peer mentorship and scholarship. The program has received over 150 applications and will select 10-15 students annually based on financial aid eligibility and academic success.
Pusan National University researchers explore the role of children in community participatory planning process
Researchers from Pusan National University conducted a participatory planning process with children to improve walking safety in a school zone. Children successfully identified and ranked solutions, which were later presented to the local government and implemented as a policy.
2000th ERC Proof of Concept grant awarded
The European Research Council has awarded a €150,000 Proof of Concept grant to the DeepSpacePulse project, led by Prof. Nanda Rea, to develop an efficient and autonomous navigation system for deep space exploration. The new system aims to improve existing space navigation systems and be competitive in both public and private markets.
Return-to-work programs may have a hidden cost to women, according to study
A study by the University of Surrey explores the experiences of professional women re-entering the workforce after taking time off for family reasons. While returner programs offer valuable support, they fall short of addressing persistent discrimination, leading to occupational downgrading and hindered career progression.
New director appointed to lead U.S. Department of Energy’s Jefferson Lab
Kim Sawyer, a seasoned executive with extensive experience in leadership and strategy, has been appointed as the new director of Jefferson Lab. Sawyer brings a proven track record of driving organizational effectiveness, innovation, and safety culture to her new role.
COSPAR 2024 Awards
This year's COSPAR Award winners include Dr. Rosine Lallement for her pioneering work on the heliosphere and interstellar medium, and Dr. Dieter Bilitza for his international cooperation efforts in ionospheric modeling and space research promotion.
Scientists may have found how to diagnose elusive neuro disorder
Researchers have discovered a new diagnostic method for PSP by analyzing protein biomarkers in spinal fluid, which could lead to earlier diagnosis and targeted therapies. The high-throughput technology allows for the measurement of thousands of proteins in a tiny drop of fluid, providing a promising solution for identifying the condition.
Poor health, stress in 20s takes toll in 40s with lower cognition
Researchers discovered that young adults with higher levels of inflammation were more likely to experience reduced cognitive function in midlife. Higher inflammation was associated with lower performance on skills testing and differences in executive functioning.
Texas A&M center receives $7.6 million grant to promote research in environmental health
The Texas A&M Center for Environmental Health will promote research in four areas of environmental health, including climate change and health, environment and metabolism, and environmental justice and policy. The center aims to facilitate collaboration between researchers and make funding more accessible for junior faculty.
Huge study identifies suicide risk factors to improve preventions
Scientists at the University of Warwick have investigated a range of contributing risk factors for suicide in a large-scale study. The study identified biological and behavioral predictors, including elevated white blood cells, neuroticism, childhood experiences, and reduced grey matter in the brain.
What do we need for better biodiversity monitoring in Europe?
A new study by iDiv-IIASA highlights the need for improved biodiversity monitoring in Europe, citing limitations such as fragmented efforts and lack of integrated data. The researchers identified key policy areas and solutions to address these challenges, including enhanced coordination, standardization, and stakeholder engagement.
SourceInternational Institute for Applied Systems Analysis·JournalConservation Letters·DateJul 2, 2024
The American Cancer Society awards $217,500 to Pennington Biomedical researcher for study on how aerobic exercise impacts colorectal cancer survivors
African American woman breast cancer survivor talking about her experience with breast cancer and the impact of breast cancer on women's lives. The American Cancer Society is a leading organization in cancer research, patient services, and advocacy.
How to promote menstrual cups as an economic and sustainable option
A study by Ritsumeikan University researchers found that emphasizing the cost-effectiveness of menstrual cups can increase their adoption. Tailored information efforts highlighting long-term financial benefits can play a crucial role in promoting sustainable options.
The American Society for Nutrition announces Orlando, Florida as the location for its annual flagship meeting, NUTRITION 2025
NUTRITION 2025 will feature the latest research and expert presentations on nutrition topics. The event aims to continue discussions on AI, nutrition education, and global trends in malnutrition.
Welch Foundation supports UTA’s drug delivery innovations
The University of Texas at Arlington's Junha Jeon is developing transition metal-free cross-coupling technologies using arynes to deliver medications safely and effectively. This project aims to improve the production of drugs, particularly for cancer treatment, by reducing impurities left behind by metals.
July Issues of APA Journals cover new research on pharmacogenomics, ADHD medication use, associations between mental health and cardiometabolic complications later in life, and more
The July issues of APA journals feature new research on pharmacogenomics, ADHD medication use and associations between mental health and cardiometabolic complications later in life. The studies highlight the importance of personalized medicine and effective treatment strategies for psychiatric disorders.
Palliative care beneficial to manage symptoms, improve quality of life for people with CVD
A new American Heart Association scientific statement highlights the benefits of palliative care in managing symptoms and improving quality of life for people with cardiovascular disease. Palliative care complements standard cardiovascular care by reducing physical symptoms, emotional distress, and assisting patients in making decision...
New predictors of metastasis in patients with early-stage pancreatic cancer
Researchers at Weill Cornell Medicine have identified cellular and molecular markers that can predict when pancreatic cancer will spread to the liver or other organs. The study found that patients with early-stage pancreatic cancer who showed signs of immune exhaustion were more likely to develop liver metastases.
Northwestern researchers propose a new, holistic way to teach synthetic biology
Researchers propose a new way to teach synthetic biology, breaking it down into five components: molecular, circuit/network, cellular, biological communities and societal. The approach incorporates ethics at each scale, with successful piloting in Northwestern University courses.
Philip Morris International has secretly funded Japanese academics
Philip Morris International (PMI) has secretly funded researchers at Kyoto University to conduct studies on smoking cessation. The tobacco giant also funded a life sciences consultancy to build an expert network, raising concerns about the manipulation of science for profit.
FRONTIERS opens new call for science journalism in residency program
The FRONTIERS Science Journalism Initiative offers a residency program for journalists to develop independent journalism while working with scientists at the forefront of knowledge. Seven journalists from around the globe were selected for the first round and will receive Frontiers Residencies in various EU countries.
International collaboration lays the foundation for future AI for materials
A new version of the OPTIMADE standard enables easier access to large materials databases, facilitating AI modeling and prediction of material properties. The international collaboration involves over 30 institutions worldwide, aiming to advance materials research and development.
IOF position on scientists and societies operating in conflict zones
The International Osteoporosis Foundation (IOF) has released a position paper recommending rules for partnerships with member organizations and scientists operating in conflict zones. A survey of IOF member societies found strong consensus towards maintaining a neutral stance, supporting scientific collaboration and research.
SourceInternational Osteoporosis Foundation·JournalOsteoporosis International·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateJun 24, 2024
Standardized protocols help hospitals treat strokes faster, WVU research finds
Researchers found that hospitals that implemented standardized protocols from the American Heart Association and American Stroke Association saw significant reductions in stroke treatment times. The protocols, which include specific limits on time between symptom onset and hospital arrival, helped medical teams respond more quickly to ...
UNC-Chapel Hill researchers release first national study on partner-friendly support for dual-career academic jobseekers
A national study analyzed university policies and resources to identify the most supportive institutions for academic couples. The research found that public universities were more likely to create faculty positions for partners than private universities.
Government updates race and ethnicity data collection standards: implications and insights
The revised standards capture a broader range of communities, enabling more precise data collection and analysis to identify and address health disparities. This shift has significant implications for policy and practice, with the potential to direct resources towards communities facing the greatest health challenges.
SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalHealth Equity·TypeCase study·DateJun 20, 2024
Exploring the relationship between civilians and military organizations through an experiment in Japan
A Japanese online survey experiment examines how public confidence in the military is affected by civilian control during an armed conflict. Participants showed significant loss of trust in the military when it deviated from civilian control, but not significantly when the legislature was involved.
New study establishes best practices for supervised psilocybin
A new study from Oregon Health & Science University identifies 22 key measures of high-quality psilocybin services, including safety indicators and client outcomes. The study provides a harmonized set of measures for monitoring the safety and effectiveness of these services, as other states consider legalizing psychedelics.
SourceOregon Health & Science University·JournalJournal of Psychopharmacology·TypeSurvey·DateJun 19, 2024
Study forecasts 110,000 premature deaths by 2050 due to PM2.5 and aging
A new study from POSTECH forecasts over 110,000 premature deaths in Korea by 2050 due to PM2.5 exposure and rapid population aging. To mitigate this burden, PM2.5 concentrations must be reduced to approximately 6 µg/m³.
SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalEnvironmental Research·DateJun 18, 2024
Chronic high blood pressure during pregnancy doubled between 2008 and 2021 in the U.S.
The number of US individuals with chronic hypertension in pregnancy increased significantly, while medication treatment remained low, according to a new study. The findings highlight the need for improved maternal health strategies to address high blood pressure and cardiovascular complications.
UTA awards more than $130,000 to spark new research
The University of Texas at Arlington has awarded over $130,000 to support new research projects through its Research Enhancement Program grants. The funding is intended to provide seed money for researchers to initiate creative endeavors and make a positive impact on society.
Age is just a number: Immune cell ‘epigenetic clock’ ticks independently of organism lifespan
Researchers discovered that T-cell aging is not limited by organismal age, and healthy T cells can proliferate indefinitely. The epigenetic clock of T cells shows that death is not the end, and these cells do not plateau with age, defying traditional notions of cellular aging.
SourceSt. Jude Children's Research Hospital·JournalNature Aging·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 12, 2024
Texas A&M researcher receives grant for work on phase separation
Dr. Jeetain Mittal's NIH grant will support multiscale computational models investigating phase separation in biology, particularly heterochromatin formation and its role in neurodegenerative diseases. The research aims to elucidate the molecular origins of phase separation using innovative models and methods.
For type 1 diabetes distress, focus first on managing emotions
A new study led by researchers at UC San Francisco found that a virtual emotion-centered program called TunedIn can reduce diabetes distress by half and improve glucose control. The program incorporates elements of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and was delivered virtually to 276 adults with Type 1 diabetes.
New study explores the world of philanthropy and research funding
A new study analyzed 3.6 million tax records to reveal the dynamics of philanthropic support for science in the US. The authors found that large donations are rare, and smaller donations drive most funding, with geography and shared priorities influencing giving patterns.
SourceUniversity of Virginia School of Data Science·JournalScientific Reports·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJun 10, 2024
UTA honors two faculty for distinguished scholarship
Sam Haynes, a professor of history at UTA, is recognized for his extensive scholarly output, including four books and several edited volumes. His recent publication won a prize in the study of race, national identity, and power in 19th-century US history. Jaehoon Yu, a physics professor, is honored for his groundbreaking research on th...
Discovery unveils key to heart development in womb, unravels cause of spongy heart disease
A University of Houston researcher has made a breakthrough discovery about the development of the heart in the womb, revealing that a certain gene deletion can cause a common type of heart muscle disease called left ventricular non-compaction.
Thyroid eye disease patients report maintained improvement 2 years after teprotumumab infusions
A study analyzing pooled clinical trial data found that teprotumumab maintained improvements in signs and symptoms of thyroid eye disease in most patients after 51 weeks. Nearly two years after the final infusion, 82% of patients did not require further treatment.
SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalThyroid·TypeNews article·DateJun 8, 2024
Flavor unleashed: a scientific journey into the world of table grapes
Researchers have unlocked the secrets behind table grapes' diverse flavors by analyzing 38 cultivars using sensory evaluation and solvent-assisted flavour evaporation. The study identified novel flavor-associated compound profiles, revealing specific accumulations and combinations of compounds that enhance flavor intensity and diversity.
SourceNanjing Agricultural University The Academy of Science·JournalHorticulture Research·DateJun 7, 2024
Artificial intelligence blood test provides a reliable way to identify lung cancer
Researchers developed an AI-driven liquid biopsy to identify lung cancer through DNA fragment patterns in the blood, demonstrating a high negative predictive value of 99.8%. The test could quadruple lung cancer detection rates and prevent thousands of deaths if implemented nationwide.
‘Artificial lymph node’ used to treat cancer in mice
Researchers created an artificial lymph node using hyaluronic acid, which connects with T-cells via a cell surface receptor. The noden acted as a learning hub, stimulating T-cells to recognize and kill cancer cells in mice with melanoma and colon cancers.
Smartphones negatively impact charitable giving, revealing need for nonprofits to adapt messaging
New research reveals a 'mobile giving gap' where consumers are less likely to donate when using smartphones than PCs. To overcome this, charities should focus on highlighting the needs of others in their appeals, creating a sense of empathy and other-focus.
Why do 1 in 10 Americans get eczema? Is it too much salt?
Researchers found that eating more than one gram of sodium per day increases the likelihood of eczema flares by 22%, making it easier for patients to manage their symptoms. Eczema affects over 31 million people in the US and can be difficult to cope with when unpredictable.
Six UTA faculty receive prestigious CAREER grants
Six UTA faculty members have received prestigious CAREER grants from the National Science Foundation for their innovative research. The total award amount is $3.23 million.
Great news, parents: You do have power over your tweens’ screen use
Researchers found that restricting screens in bedrooms and at mealtimes has the biggest impact on reducing screen time and addictive behavior. Parents who model healthy practices at home also see a decrease in their child's screen use. Limiting and monitoring screen time can reduce usage by 1.29 hours and 0.83 hours, respectively.
NRG Oncology abstract considered “best of ASCO” for 2024 shows difference in outcomes for node-negative versus node-positive pancreatic cancer patients when adding chemoradiation to systemic therapy
The NRG-RTOG 0848 clinical study found that adding chemoradiation to adjuvant systemic therapy improves overall survival for node-negative pancreatic cancer patients, but not for those with node-positive disease. Disease-free survival was also improved in both groups.
White blood cell “nets” could be early warning sign of major immunotherapy complication
A study from Michigan Medicine reveals a connection between neutrophil activation and severe cytokine release syndrome (CRS), a potentially life-threatening reaction to CAR T-Cell therapy. Researchers identified biomarkers of NETosis, a process in which neutrophils create webs that may contribute to CRS.
SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalBlood Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 3, 2024
Centering relationships between people and place: A critical step towards improving science's contributions to society
The authors argue that building relationships with places of study can lead to more fair science, accurate and meaningful research outcomes. They propose three pathways: deepening reflection and communication about relationships, strengthening collaboration amongst research teams, and transforming systems of knowledge creation to foste...
SourceSmithsonian Tropical Research Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 3, 2024
Safer computing: WPI researcher receives $594,081 to develop tools to protect hardware from hackers
A WPI researcher has received a CAREER Award to develop new technologies to monitor and protect computer chips from malicious attacks. The project aims to create better metrics to verify the integrity of components and advance understanding of side-channel attacks.
University of Maryland study shows N95 masks near-perfect at blocking escape of airborne COVID-19
A University of Maryland study found N95 masks to be near-perfect in blocking the escape of airborne COVID-19 particles, with 'duckbill' N95s outperforming others. The study suggests that N95 masks should be the standard in high-risk settings.
Heart healthy behaviors may help reverse rapid cell aging
A new study found that higher lifestyle scores associated with better heart health can lead to a younger biological age and lower risk of heart disease and stroke. The study used DNA methylation levels as a biomarker to estimate biological age.