News from the institutes and societies that organize science. Covers scientific medals, university-hospital partnerships, oncology cooperatives, and society leadership.
A new water-resistant coating has been developed to protect historic limestone buildings from pollution and degradation. The coating, which includes fatty acids derived from olive oil and fluorinated substances, can minimize chemical reactions that cause buildings to deteriorate.
Researchers at University of Cambridge create hundreds of tiny twisters on chip using quantum mechanics, controlling electron movement and light interaction to form 'polariton'. This enables precise measurement of motion and surface irregularities with sensitivity.
Researchers at Karolinska Institutet have discovered that glucagon stimulates its own synthesis, activating a self-reinforcing cycle of hormone production. This finding has significant implications for understanding the regulation of hormone secretion and may hold the key to studying defects in diabetes.
Douglas Kell, a University of Manchester professor, was elected a Fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) for his work in quantitative and systems biology and analytical biotechnology. He is one of fewer than 50 UK scientists to hold this honor, and will receive an official certificate and pin at the AA...
Research published in PLOS ONE found that moral evaluations are faster and more extreme than pragmatic ones, with greater flexibility in consideration. The study suggests people can evaluate choices using either moral or non-moral considerations, leading to different choices for the same actions.
Researchers at Lund University have developed a new method for manufacturing semiconductors, which could make production thousands of times quicker and cheaper. The technology uses freely suspended nanoparticles of gold to grow structures, eliminating the need for expensive semiconductor wafers.
Professor Uffe Haagerup received the 14th European Latsis Prize for his pioneering work in operator algebra, a field with significant applications in quantum field theory. The prize recognizes his unique achievements and contributions to mathematics, solidifying his reputation as a leading mathematician.
Scientists have created a blended scent, known as 'Laurax,' which spans the entire range of human olfaction and is perceived as neutral. This breakthrough challenges conventional wisdom on how our sense of smell works.
The Arthritis National Research Foundation (ANRF) and American Federation for Aging Research (AFAR) have collaborated to support research on the role of aging in the development of arthritis. The grant aims to expand our understanding of the connections between aging and arthritis, moving closer to effective treatments and cures.
Physicists at TUM and University of Michigan demonstrate the construction of synthetic membrane channels made entirely of DNA. The resulting pores exhibit electrical conductivity comparable to natural ion channels, suggesting potential applications as molecular sensors, antimicrobial agents, and nanodevices.
Researchers from the University of Illinois found that frontline employees are more likely to commit to continuous improvement initiatives if they perceive high job autonomy and trust their leaders. Employees need a sense of control over their work environment to be motivated to improve, and leadership must provide support for this mot...
Researchers found that captive mink in confined spaces showed increased interest in stimuli and spent more time seeking stimulation when given little to do. The study aimed to assess animal boredom scientifically and has implications for understanding its causes and effects across species.
A study from the University of Gothenburg found that quality of life is highest among couples who adopted, followed by those with children through IVF. The study suggests considering adoption as a fertility option for couples seeking medical help.
The University of Granada and the Michael J. Fox Foundation have developed advanced imaging techniques to diagnose Parkinson's disease, improving accuracy and reducing reliance on expert analysis. The new methods utilize machine learning algorithms to analyze brain function and image data, demonstrating promising results in diagnosis.
The project profiles rare and common genetic variations in 1,092 individuals from 14 populations, capturing up to 98% of sequences for rare gene variants occurring in at least 1% of the population.
Scientists at Imperial College London developed a prototype ultra-sensitive sensor that can detect biomarkers for diseases like prostate cancer and HIV with the naked eye. The technology is ten times more sensitive than current gold standard methods and could be significantly cheaper to administer.
The radial approach has been shown to significantly reduce the incidence of major bleeding and access site complications compared to the femoral approach. In STEMI patients undergoing primary PCI within 12 hours, radial access was associated with a lower rate of major adverse cardiovascular events.
Dr. Barry D. Rutherford, MD, was awarded the TCT 2012 Geoffrey O. Hartzler Master Clinical Operator Award for his technical expertise and innovation in interventional cardiovascular medicine.
Renu Virmani received the 2012 TCT Career Achievement Award for her groundbreaking contributions to interventional cardiovascular medicine. The award honors a pioneer in the field of transcatheter cardiovascular therapies.
In a study of patients over 80, drug-eluting stents demonstrated lower rates of target vessel revascularization and myocardial infarction compared to bare-metal stents. The XIMA trial found that both types of stents offered good clinical results in this age group.
A novel hydration protocol guided by left ventricular end-diastolic pressure reduced kidney damage by 59% in patients undergoing cardiac catheterization, according to the POSEIDON trial. The study found that this technique can be easily implemented and adapted for both inpatient and outpatient settings.
The PC Trial found that catheter-based PFO closure using an investigational device did not decrease ischemic and bleeding events compared to standard medical therapy. Stroke risk was non-significantly reduced with device therapy, with a relative risk reduction of 37 percent.
A new study presented at TCT 2012 confirms that intracoronary and intravenous use of abciximab during angioplasty yield similar results for heart damage and reperfusion injury in STEMI patients. The AIDA STEMI MRI sub-study examined various measures of heart damage using cardiac magnetic resonance imaging.
The RESPECT trial found that PFO closure significantly reduces the risk of recurrent ischemic strokes, with a clinical benefit of 46.6-72.7% compared to medical management alone. The study also showed low device-related risks and no device-related thrombus or embolization.
The ISAR-LEFT MAIN 2 trial presented at TCT 2012 found that second-generation drug-eluting stents are safe and effective for treating left main coronary artery lesions. The study showed similar clinical outcomes between zotarolimus-eluting and everolimus-eluting stents in patients with high-risk lesions.
The FAME 2 trial demonstrated that FFR-guided percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) is a cost-effective strategy compared to medical therapy for patients with stable coronary artery disease (CAD). This approach improves clinical outcomes and quality of life, with a projected cost-effectiveness of $53,000 per quality-adjusted life year.
The PARTNER Cohort B trial found TAVR to be beneficial for patients with severe aortic stenosis, with lower mortality rates and fewer cardiac deaths at three years compared to standard therapy. The study confirms the role of TAVR as the standard-of-care for symptomatic patients who are not surgical candidates.
Multicellular bacteria have been found to function as living power cables, transmitting electrons across large distances as part of their respiration and ingestion processes. The discovery reveals a previously unknown type of long, multicellular bacteria that act as biological power cables.
The TRILOGY ACS trial found prasugrel did not reduce cardiovascular events among patients managed medically for acute coronary syndrome. However, it was associated with lower rates of cardiovascular disease, heart attack, and stroke, but higher rates of bleeding when compared to clopidogrel.
A study found that a nitinol stent performed better than balloon angioplasty alone in treating blockages of the popliteal artery, with higher one-year primary patency rates. The trial compared primary nitinol stent placement to angioplasty alone in patients with single obstructive lesions in the popliteal artery.
The MASTER trial found that mesh-covered stents demonstrated improved restoration of blood flow compared to bare-metal or drug-eluting stents in heart attack patients undergoing angioplasty. The study showed a higher rate of ST-segment resolution with the new stent.
A new framework for loan approval has been developed using data mining methods, enabling East Lancashire Moneyline to increase lending by 50% and top £10 million this year. This project aims to improve financial inclusion and reduce the risk of bad debts among low-income individuals.
Researchers developed a new X-ray technology that analyzes scattered radiation to detect emphysema in lungs. This technology helps identify disease progression and localization, aiding early diagnosis and treatment of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD).
John Potter will receive the IARC Medal of Honor for his work on environmental and genetic risk factors in colorectal, breast and pancreatic cancers. He is being recognized for his contributions to the field of nutrition and cancer prevention.
Dr. Paul Keim's research in pathogen genomics and microbiology has been recognized for its importance in bolstering the nation's biodefense and preventing outbreaks of infectious diseases. His work has led to significant advancements in genomic investigations, including the detection of antibiotic resistance and antiviral resistance.
A Drexel University researcher is developing a survey to measure the safety climate of fire departments, which will help identify areas for improvement. The study aims to reduce firefighter injuries and casualties, with potential applications for improving safety culture in other industries.
A study by ESRC found that social scientists with PhDs are more likely to be in senior positions and make valuable contributions to policymaking. They bring a deeper understanding of research methodologies and can deliver pragmatic solutions.
A cluster randomized trial found that an intervention to enhance sense of coherence (SOC) improved oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL), oral health beliefs, and gingival health in children. The study suggests that SOC may be an avenue for oral health promotion.
A Concordia researcher is developing a system that converts physiological displays of emotion into music. The music is used to teach individuals with autism disorders how to identify feelings by externalizing them through sound. By tapping into the brain's electrical signals, researchers can create an emotional symphony.
Near-infrared (NIR) spectral imaging has been shown to be highly predictive of flap outcome in breast reconstruction, detecting circulatory complications early on. This non-invasive method can provide real-time feedback to surgeons during surgery and post-operative period, improving patient outcomes.
The PLOS Medicine Editors report on the delays and changes in scope of the World Health Organization's (WHO) World Health Report 2012. The original report was planned for publication in 2012, but it has been delayed until 2013. The focus of the new report will be on universal health coverage, but its scope is still unclear.
A UT Arlington civil engineering assistant professor is teaming up with a private sector engineer to develop a tool for rehabilitating manholes. The project aims to improve the structural capabilities of common manhole materials and provide vital information for decision-makers.
Scientists predict that climate change will rehabilitate the ecosystem of around 2.5 million years ago on Bylot Island in Nunavut, Canada. The island's fossilized forest is between 2.6 and 3 million years old, with wood samples preserved in peat and permafrost.
Scientists tracked bumblebees to understand their route selection process. After an average of 26 attempts each bee refined its route through trial and error, selecting the most efficient path. The study revealed that bees don't easily forget a fruitful flower and can learn complex routes without visual cues.
The study, published in Science, measured isotopes of nobelium and lawrence using a particle accelerator at the GSI. This provides useful data on the nuclear structure of these undiscovered elements, potentially helping to locate the 'Island of Stability', a theoretical region of highly stable super-heavy elements.
A large-scale study confirms that empathic physician-patient relationships are associated with better clinical outcomes, including lower hospitalization rates and fewer complications. The study analyzed data from over 20,000 diabetic patients and 242 physicians in Italy.
A novel CT scanner with grating-based x-ray phase contrast technology demonstrates improved soft tissue visibility in preclinical research. The technology, developed by a German-Swedish-Belgian team, has the potential to revolutionize biomedical imaging and could lead to medical CT scanning applications in the future.
The San Diego Supercomputer Center (SDSC) has been awarded a $810,000 grant to develop a cyberinfrastructure for rapidly sharing and streaming scientific visualizations. The project aims to provide an essential component in computational research and the current high-performance computing infrastructure.
Researchers used satellite radar images and GPS receivers to detect the 8-14 centimeter rise in the island's surface. The team calculated that the amount of molten rock beneath Santorini has grown by 10-20 years' worth, but this does not necessarily indicate an imminent eruption.
Researchers at the University of Toronto have demonstrated the ability to directly measure disturbance and confirm that Heisenberg was too pessimistic about the uncertainty principle. By employing weak measurement techniques, they found that the disturbance induced by measurement is less than previously thought.
A recent study by Hendrik De Smet investigates language change and finds that actualization processes involve small adjustments exploiting similarities between contexts. This process can lead to differences in language use over time, influencing grammatical structures.
Researchers will investigate how sulforaphane in broccoli affects prostate tissue gene expression and metabolism in men at risk of developing prostate cancer. The study aims to provide evidence that diets rich in cruciferous vegetables or sulforaphane can reduce the likelihood of metastatic cancer.
Researchers at Aarhus University have solved the long-standing puzzle of haemoglobin structure using high-resolution three-dimensional mapping. This discovery provides essential information on how haptoglobin captures and neutralizes toxic haemoglobin, which can cause kidney damage in diseases like malaria.
A nationwide survey of food policy councils reveals that many are focusing on procurement and access, but face barriers such as lack of time and funding. The study, funded by the Johns Hopkins Center for a Livable Future, highlights key findings on the role of food policy councils in improving local food systems.
A £30 million initiative will fund groundbreaking projects addressing healthcare problems with current solutions inadequate, enabling adoption into clinical practice and basic research. The partnership aims to tackle rare diseases, mental health issues, and care for infants, leveraging UK and international expertise.
A recent study published in the Journal of Dental Research estimates that approximately 47.2% of US adults have periodontitis, with higher rates among males, Mexican Americans, and those with lower education levels. The study also found significant disparities in periodontal disease prevalence across different age groups.
Researchers at the University of Cambridge have developed a cheap catalyst that produces hydrogen efficiently in water, paving the way for green hydrogen production. The breakthrough could enable the development of sustainable energy solutions.
A team of polar scientists has reconstructed a 15,000-year climate history from an ice core, showing the Antarctic Peninsula warmed by about 6°C as it emerged from the last ice age. The centuries-long warming paved the way for the recent rapid warming and ice shelf collapse, which threatens future climate and sea-level rise.
Researchers propose a new concept called Quantum Graphity, suggesting that space is composed of tiny indivisible blocks similar to pixels. This idea challenges the traditional Big Bang theory and offers a potential explanation for the nature of space.
A U of S-led team discovered a protein in semen that prompts ovulation by acting on the female brain, found to be the same molecule as nerve growth factor regulating nerve cell growth and survival.