The International Development Research Centre (IDRC) has awarded $20,000 doctoral research grants to five Canadian students. The winners will study various aspects of international development, including civil war's impact on Burundi's populations and the effects of State decentralization in Senegal.
The Joint Genome Institute (JGI) has produced high-quality draft sequences of 15 bacterial genomes in under a month, representing diverse organisms and a new approach to sequencing microbes. This data will be publicly available, providing scientists with immediate access to essential information for research.
The meeting aims to facilitate moving drug addiction research into clinical practice, with discussions on using research in real-life settings and forging partnerships. Presentations will cover topics such as the effects of drugs on the brain, gender issues in treatment, and innovations in medication development.
The current medical research protocols are out of step with evidence-based medicine and new technology developments, suggests an analysis in the Journal of Medical Ethics. Patients taking part in research deserve the same safety and regulation standards as public transport passengers, yet often receive inadequate care.
Researchers will present and discuss new PET clinical uses, including cancer diagnosis and management, and comparison with CT for staging melanoma. The briefing also explores PET imaging agent Fluorocholine and its applications.
A recent study by Ohio State University found that highly cynical workers are more likely to file grievances, show lower commitment, and believe good work won't be rewarded by management. Effective management can reduce worker cynicism by clearly publicizing successful changes, according to co-author John Wanous.
African-American women are more likely to relapse into postpartum smoking due to various factors such as ethnicity, maternal weight gain, and stress. Women with higher levels of stressful events are nearly twice as likely to relapse compared to those with no stressful events.
Researchers analyzed data from over 22,000 smokers and found that teenagers, women, and whites experience higher rates of nicotine dependency symptoms. The study suggests that these differences in sensitivity to nicotine may reflect varying thresholds for determining nicotine dependence among different groups.
The NIDA Clinical Toolbox provides comprehensive science-based materials for drug abuse counselors, including therapy manuals, counseling approaches, and research reports. This resource aims to revolutionize treatment options for patients in community-level clinical settings.
A team of Penn State researchers has developed a scale to measure an individual's visioning ability, which is the capacity to summon a vivid mental image of their organization's future. The scale was validated through five survey groups and showed significant correlation with positive outlook and inspirational motivation.
A researcher has devised a way to make tracking more accurate by determining the amount of bending electromagnetic signals incur due to air moisture and temperature. This technology has applications in high-precision tracking radars.
A study by Penn State researchers found that consuming larger portions of puffed-up food servings can reduce hunger and lead to a lower calorie intake. The study suggested using whipped foods like low-fat frozen desserts or air-popped popcorn as alternatives to manage weight.
Research published in Thorax found that COPD rates in women have almost doubled over the past decade. The study analyzed data from over 4 million patients and found significant increases in COPD cases among older women. Despite this, women with severe COPD tend to survive longer than men with similar severity.
A University of Illinois professor highlights the need to address ethical concerns around sex with former clients, as well as gaps in graduate training and multiculturalism. She advocates for increased recognition of women's contributions to psychology and calls for reforms.
Researchers found that women are less likely to receive early treatment following a heart attack, including aspirin and thrombolytic therapy. Despite this, there is no apparent effect on 30-day mortality rates when accounting for severity of illness and other factors.
Researchers solved the 'nug30' problem, a test of computer capabilities that challenged computer scientists for 32 years, by designing an efficient algorithm and leveraging high-performance computing resources. The solution demonstrates advancements in combinatorial optimization problems and their applications in real-world fields.
The Department of Energy's Oak Ridge National Laboratory has won three R¼D 100 Awards for its groundbreaking technological innovations. The awards recognize the lab's cutting-edge research in X-ray microfocusing mirrors and high-thermal-conductivity graphite foam.
Researchers found that tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) promotes tumor growth by impairing the immune system, increasing IL-10 and TGF-beta cytokine production. Marijuana smoke contains higher carcinogenic hydrocarbons than tobacco, posing a potential cancer risk.
Direct images of aligned magnetic domains on both sides of an interface reveal the phenomenon of 'pinning' in layered magnetic structures. The researchers used photoemission electron microscopy to distinguish between layers with different chemical elements, demonstrating that exchange bias is an intrinsic property of the interface.
The Community Epidemiology Work Group (CEWG) will convene in Baltimore to share frontline reports on current and emerging patterns of drug abuse. Researchers from across the US will present data on localized drug use problems, providing valuable insights into national trends.
Computer-aided text analysis software can quickly identify trends in public opinions on current issues, paralleling survey results at a fraction of the cost. Researchers can extend analysis back in time to establish trends and examine rate and direction of change.
A study by Johns Hopkins Medicine found that 31% of recent popular press articles on epilepsy contained gross mistakes, including inaccurate science and exaggerated treatment claims. The print media often reflect and shape views about epilepsy, but also perpetuate misconceptions that can shame patients.
Researchers found that over 12% of a sample must be covered in soot for people to accurately detect the difference between clean and dirty sheets. The study provides guidelines for determining when to clean and protect fine art from soot damage, helping museum designers preserve valuable collections.
Astronomers used Chandra to survey the Hubble Deep Field North, detecting six galaxies that defy expectations with their high rate of star formation and giant black holes. The discovery indicates that only 15% of submillimeter sources can be luminous X-ray sources.
A new study by Johns Hopkins researchers found that older adults with asthma are hospitalized at higher rates due to more severe symptoms and co-morbid illnesses. Earlier diagnosis and better medical care can help lower these hospital admission rates.
Researchers at ONR have developed a new wavelet technique that reveals objects in satellite images using highly sophisticated neural network technology. The technique uses a smart sensing capability modeled on the human visual system, surveying the scene with two sensors to compare and contrast data.
Aging South Dakota windbreaks are in need of renovation, posing increased risk to agriculture from wind damage. Well-developed forested riparian areas reduce nitrogen in groundwater by up to 100% and surface runoff by up to 98%.
Hawaii's dry forests require more than just grazing removal to regenerate; invasive species like non-native rodents and fountain grass also play a significant role. Active management is necessary to control these invaders and reintroduce native species, say researchers.
The National Reading Panel concludes that a combination of teaching phonics, word sounds, and providing feedback on oral reading is the most effective way to teach children to read. The panel's rigorous scientific review identifies systematic phonics instruction as a key component of classroom reading instruction.
Two CIIT researchers were honored for their scholarship by the Society of Toxicology. Dr. Li You was recognized for his work on the effect of DDE, while Dr. Thomas Gelzleichter received an award for his study on inhaled ceramic fibers. Additionally, CIIT Predoctoral Fellow Amy Collins Licata won a student award for her presentation on ...
Researchers have developed a method to modify an allergen, like ragweed, into a vaccine that induces protective molecules, type 1 helper T cells (Th1), inhibiting the allergic inflammatory reaction. The new vaccine, named AIC, was found to be 180 times less allergenic than a licensed product in human studies.
Researchers found that individuals with severe mental illnesses can achieve long-term residential stability when given access to safe, affordable housing linked to outpatient services. Substance abuse was a major factor in disrupting residential stability, highlighting the need for new strategies to improve housing alternatives.
A new study found that lack of physical fitness is a significant factor in sports injuries among women, with female trainees experiencing twice as many injuries as men. The research also showed that women can improve their fitness levels rapidly and reduce injury risk through modified training programs.
A recent study of Army recruits revealed that smokers were 1.5 times more likely than nonsmokers to suffer fractures, sprains, and other physical injuries during an eight-week basic training program. The researchers also found that risk of injury increased for both women and men who smoked.
New research refutes claims that U.S. forests and vegetation are 'sequestering' enough carbon to offset fossil fuel emissions, suggesting at least 70-90% of emissions stay in atmosphere or be sequestered elsewhere. The study's findings have important implications for the role of the U.S. in combating global warming.
Researchers analyzed lunar cratering data and found a sudden increase in impacts about 400 million years ago. This period corresponds to the rapid evolution of life on Earth during the Cambrian explosion.
Researchers at Mayo Clinic have discovered a significant link between major depression and seizures in older adults. The study, published in Annals of Neurology, found that individuals with a history of major depression were six times more likely to experience a seizure after age 55.
A new University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill study confirms that Thoroughbred horse racing is also a sport of serious injuries. Researchers found 6,545 injuries among 2,700 licensed jockeys over a four-year period, with most head injuries resulting from being thrown or struck by the horse's head.
A recent study by Ohio State University researchers found that two experimental wetlands, one with more diverse plant species and the other more productive, both contribute equally to reducing nitrates and water pollution. The study aims to answer whether mitigated wetlands can effectively control environmental threats like hypoxia in ...
A study by Wake Forest University researchers found that the longer heart surgery takes, the more tiny particles of fat enter the bloodstream and circulate to the brain, blocking tiny blood vessels. This can cause brain deficits that may be permanent in ten to thirty percent of affected patients.
A new study found that 32-35% of patients in weight loss, headache, and chronic pain programs dropped out due to factors like emotional distress and low self-efficacy. The researchers suggest investigating variables such as support from family and friends, and the therapeutic alliance between clients and program leaders.
Researchers found four distinct groups with varying adherence rates, medication use, and lifestyle habits. Group A and B members have better health outcomes due to effective medication and lifestyle regimens.
A study by Ohio State University's William Mitsch explores the performance of two experimental wetlands, one of which is 20% more productive but less diverse in plant species. Both wetlands contribute equally to reducing nitrates, but their long-term fate remains uncertain.
Studies suggest that eating chocolate can contribute to a healthy diet, thanks to its antioxidant properties and potential to reduce inflammation. Researchers found that chocolate consumption resulted in increased blood antioxidant capacity and decreased platelet activation within two hours after consumption.
A Johns Hopkins University undergraduate has developed a computer model that simulates damaged heart tissue, confirming earlier findings on coronary artery disease. The new testing method aims to detect irregular electrical activity in the cardiac muscle, allowing for early treatment and prevention of permanent heart damage.
Tubeworms living in cold, calm hydrocarbon-seep sites in the Gulf of Mexico have surprisingly long life spans, growing up to 2 meters over 170-250 years. In contrast, their cousins at hot and dynamic hydrothermal vents grow just one meter in a year. The researchers aim to understand why these animals live so long and grow slowly.
The American Liver Foundation will honor Dr. John M. Vierling for his significant advances in understanding autoimmune and alloimmune liver diseases, as well as Dr. Andrew J. Conrad for his impact on chronic viral infections diagnosis and management. The foundation's recognition dinner will take place on February 11.
A study found that people are willing to support green spaces in their communities, but are reluctant to pay for them directly. The researchers used Contingent Valuation surveys to gauge willingness to pay and found significant differences between self-reported and actual payments.
A study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that routine preoperative tests do not improve outcomes or reduce complications from cataract surgery. The researchers analyzed data from over 19,000 patients and found no benefit to the testing, which adds an estimated $150 million to Medicare costs each year.
Researchers detect faint X-ray source close to Sagittarius A*, a supermassive black hole at the center of our galaxy, using NASA's Chandra X-ray Observatory. The discovery provides fresh insight into how the black hole is powered and may challenge current models.
Recent research shows that Americans still struggle with dietary practices, with five leading causes of death related to diet. Effective interventions are often limited to those at high risk for diet-related diseases.
Researchers at McGill University have developed a nonchemical weedkiller using the naturally occurring pathogen Fusarium to combat Striga in Africa. Crop yields doubled and farmers gained economic power as they could produce the fungus locally, providing a new source of income.
Researchers discovered that full-fat frankfurters release flavor compounds more slowly and last longer than lower fat varieties. This results in a stronger initial flavor followed by a rapid decrease, affecting the overall taste experience.
Researchers found clinic-based methods effective in improving health behavior for highly-motivated individuals, but room for improvement exists with 'one-size-fits-all' approaches. Promising trends include advances in addiction treatment and individualized health strategies.
Researchers are decoding neural activity to translate brain signals into prosthetic limb movements, potentially empowering paralyzed patients to regain control. The technology involves implanting electrodes in the brain and using computer algorithms to interpret neural patterns.
A recent study published in the Journal of the American Psychoanalytic Association suggests that psychoanalytic psychotherapy can be an effective treatment for psychiatric conditions when implemented over a longer period. The research found a positive incremental effect up to 32 months of treatment, with increased session frequency hav...
Dr. Kayser-Jones' groundbreaking research on dietary needs of nursing home residents has greatly influenced nursing care practices. Her work has had far-reaching effects on education, clinical practice, and health policy.
A new study from the Society of Actuaries found no direct link between managed care plan ratings and enrollment. The researchers suggest that ratings may be valuable in refining the rating process and increasing its usage by consumers, but more research is needed.
A nurse telephone consultation service can handle as many nighttime primary care calls as evening or weekend services, report researchers. The study found that handling calls alone did not increase patients attending daytime surgeries in the following days.
Women with mild to moderately severe depression exhibit altered immune systems due to lower levels of physical activity, according to a recent study. The researchers found that physical activity accounted for up to 63% of the differences in specific immune functions between depressed and non-depressed women.