A new study finds clear links between abrupt climate changes and fire activity during the transition between the last Ice Age and the warm interglacial period. Biomass burning tracked general climate changes closely, increasing as conditions warmed and decreasing during the cool interval.
Researchers found a significant relationship between students' academic achievement and physical fitness in an urban public school district. Students who excelled in fitness tests also performed well on standardized math and English tests.
Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center have found that a natural brain chemical called orexin works by increasing the body's sensitivity to leptin, leading to reduced weight gain. Increased orexin levels in mice also boosted metabolism and resulted in greater weight loss when administered with leptin.
Scientists investigated early warning system accuracy, finding it unlikely to estimate large earthquakes with high precision. Rapid magnitude estimation works better when using multiple seismic stations in close proximity to the fault.
Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania found that network structure influences behavior, with some networks generating global adoption of minority viewpoints and others prioritizing individual self-interest. Stubborn individuals can even improve collective performance, while greater awareness of neighboring preferences leads to ...
Current government programmes targeting young people at risk of drug misuse may be too individual-focused and neglect the importance of peer pressure. Detached, street-based youth work has been shown to be more effective in reaching those most at-risk, as it works with young people in their existing friendship groups.
Researchers found that ordinary plant cells can replace lost organs and tissue without the need for stem cells, a function previously thought to be exclusive to stem cells. The study suggests that plants can regenerate without stem cells through a process of reprogramming.
A study found that measuring NGAL in blood and urine can predict which patients with non-advanced chronic kidney disease will progress to a more serious form of the disease. High NGAL levels are associated with worsening kidney function, and both urinary and blood NGAL measurements predicted CKD progression.
Researchers discovered that U1, a guiding RNA molecule, can 'slide' one base to recognize atypical splice sites, explaining the genetic error in PCH. This shift enables U1 to form stronger matches with divergent sequences.
The Institute for Reproductive Health will make scientifically-based natural family planning methods available to Title X clients, testing strategies to overcome barriers and increase adoption. The Standard Days Method has been shown to be over 95% effective in preventing pregnancy.
A recent study found that when people are told false information about an event shortly after witnessing it, they become less likely to remember the actual details. However, forcing them to recall what they witnessed shortly afterwards improves their ability to learn and retain false information.
High levels of specific proteins in spinal fluid may signal the onset of Lou Gehrig's disease. Researchers developed a diagnostic kit using these biomarkers, achieving 92% accuracy in identifying ALS patients.
Scientists have observed a spectacular heating of the planet HD8606b, where global warming reached 1,500 degrees Kelvin in just six hours. The planet's extremely eccentric orbit and proximity to its star led to this extreme temperature increase, providing valuable insights into its atmospheric properties.
Researchers have developed a new approach for treating pneumococci by emulating the choline architecture of their cell walls. This method traps critical pneumococcal proteins, preventing bacterial growth and toxin release. The resulting CBP inhibitor has a suitable dosage range for pharmaceuticals.
Researchers at Rockefeller University identified a human protein, occludin, that makes mouse cells susceptible to the hepatitis C virus. This discovery provides a clear foundation for developing an animal model and tailored treatments for the disease.
Researchers are building additional radar units to monitor global space weather and its impact on human life. The new radars will join three existing mid-latitude radars for a continuous chain of coverage from Europe to eastern Asia.
Research suggests that exposure to perfluorinated chemicals (PFCs) may reduce women's fertility. Women with higher levels of PFOA and PFOS in their blood took longer to become pregnant than those with lower levels.
The Urban Wildlife Institute aims to mitigate wildlife and human conflicts in Chicago through holistic ecosystem health research. The institute will utilize sound science to create pragmatic solutions for zoonotic disease threats and urban habitat preservation.
Craft goat's cheese contains most bacteria from lactic acid, which may have technological and functional properties. These bacteria could be beneficial for health due to their antimicrobial compounds.
Researchers at UC Davis have discovered a new class of drugs that can reduce heart swelling and reverse heart failure. The study, led by cardiologist Nipavan Chiamvimonvat and entomologist Bruce Hammock, found that the enzyme soluble epoxide hydrolase plays a key role in the development of cardiac hypertrophy.
A blood pressure test, pulse pressure, may identify patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) at increased risk of developing fatal heart complications. Pulse pressure correlates significantly with coronary artery calcification in all patients with various stages of CKD.
A systematic review found motor control exercises can significantly reduce pain and disability in patients with persistent low back pain. These exercises help regain control of trunk muscles, leading to improved physical activity and positive effects over time.
A study published in Human Ecology highlights the problems linked to converting crops into biofuels, including inefficiency, economic costs, and environmental degradation. The research reveals a negative energy return for many biofuel sources, making them less productive than projected.
A new study from McGill University finds that MCH neurons are activated during sleep and could be important in regulating the sleep state. The study provides deeper understanding of the sleep-wake cycle and vital insight into the basis of sleep disorders such as narcolepsy.
Researchers at Virginia Commonwealth University discovered that Stat3 plays a crucial role in regulating mitochondria, the energy-producing machines of cells. The team found that Stat3 is necessary for the function of the mitochondrial electron transport chain that generates ATP.
A University of Rochester Medical Center study challenges common assumptions about BPA exposure, suggesting that levels can remain high even after fasting for 24 hours. The finding highlights the need for further research into the effects of BPA on adipose tissue hormones and function.
A study found that transplantation of stem cells from the spinal cord lining reverses paralysis in laboratory tests. The transplanted cells regenerated ten times faster than similar cells from healthy control animals.
Scientists have discovered a unique property of domain walls in bismuth ferrite, allowing them to conduct electricity at room temperature. This discovery could lead to the development of future electronic devices with shrunk logic and memory functions.
A new study published in Social Science Quarterly found that adolescents with unpopular names are more likely to commit crime. Researchers analyzed state data and constructed a popularity-name index, which showed the least popular names were associated with juvenile delinquency among both black and white youths.
Scientists found that exposure to blast overpressure from certain weapons, such as anti-tank guns and automatic rifles, causes mild brain injuries in pigs and rats. The study's results suggest that low frequencies are more effectively transmitted to the brain than high frequencies, leading to small haemorrhages and brain edema.
Researchers designed nerve networks with varying widths to mimic brain connections, creating logic gates and biological clocks. They discovered a threshold thickness for axon development, allowing for the growth of around 100 axons, essential for signal transmission.
Researchers have developed a new method for comparing whole genome sequences, revealing new genetic relationships and surprising discoveries. This technique can compare entire genomes, not just selected genes, and has classified previously enigmatic bacteria and viruses.
A genetic variant of interleukin-18 has been found to be associated with a prolonged ICU stay after cardiopulmonary bypass surgery, leading to increased inflammation and adverse outcomes. The TT genotype was carried by 58% of the subjects, indicating a potential risk factor for patients undergoing CPB.
Concordia University will coordinate the Cellulosic Biofuels Network, a major national project focusing on sustainable ethanol production from cellulosic material. The project aims to assess crop production economics and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
The study found that suppressing the respective genes protects mice from severe anaphylactic reactions. This discovery paves the way for developing new drugs to treat and prevent anaphylactic shock.
A comprehensive meta-analysis of 12 new-generation antidepressants found sertraline and escitalopram to be the most effective and acceptable options. They showed better efficacy compared to other drugs, with escitalopram being more efficacious than duloxetine by 33%.
A new INFORMS management insights feature warns that relying on arithmetic means can lead to flawed plans. Non-averaging metrics, such as the artist's maximum sales, are often more accurate and should be used instead.
A Cornell research team mapped histone-DNA interactions in nucleosomes, gaining new understanding of how genes are packed and expressed. The study's findings could help uncover the effects of histone or DNA sequence changes on motor protein access to genetic information.
Researchers at MIT have developed a new technology that can generate accurate maps of underground oil reservoirs, guiding engineers to extract more oil. The technique uses JPEG compression to create realistic maps from limited measurements, improving predictions of oil production and potentially increasing efficiency.
Gallium Nitride (GaN) LED lights could cut the proportion of UK electricity used for lighting from 20% to 5% if widely adopted, potentially saving eight power stations. GaN LEDs also offer long lifespan and environmental benefits over traditional bulbs.
Researchers observed the intense heating of HD 80606b as it swung close to its star, providing clues to its atmospheric properties. The data enabled the creation of realistic images of the planet using computer simulations.
Researchers have discovered an abundance of pseudotachylytes, rocks formed under extreme heat and friction during earthquakes, in the Sierra Nevada. This finding reveals the importance of heat generated by the earthquake process and challenges previous assumptions about their rarity.
The lack of new antibiotics is exacerbating the antibiotic resistance crisis, with 'super bugs' becoming increasingly difficult to treat. The divide between research and development, and real-world application is hindering efforts to combat these life-threatening infections.
Researchers at Northwestern University have discovered a new cellular mechanism that requires both types of neuronal metabotropic receptors to produce biochemical changes, increasing neuron firing and strengthening signals to other brain regions.
Researchers found that young infants (8-12 months) can tell the difference between an action's goal and its outcome. However, younger infants need explicit information about successful outcomes to infer goals. This study suggests that understanding internal causes of actions develops over time, enabling effective social navigation.
The completed genome data will aid in optimizing sorghum and other crops for food and fodder use, as well as biofuels production. Sorghum's rapid growth and ability to withstand drought make it an excellent candidate for biofuels production.
Scientists at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory have developed a powerful new sputter process that can deposit high-quality metal films in complex nanoscale patterns. The method, called 'self-sputtering far above the runaway threshold,' uses short high-power pulses to create a dense plasma of metal ions.
Researchers suggest using 30% of global crop residues to sequester 600 megatons of carbon in the deep ocean, reducing atmospheric CO2 by up to 15%. The process would be 92% efficient and minimize environmental damage if done correctly.
A recent study found that false confessions can significantly influence eyewitness testimony, with 60% of witnesses changing their minds when told of a confession. This has serious implications for the legal system and suggests that investigators need to be aware of how confessions may impact eyewitness identifications.
A study funded by NIH found that astrocytes, not neurons, contribute to the urge to sleep when wakefulness is prolonged. The release of adenosine from these support cells causes sleep-inducing effects that can be inhibited by caffeine.
Measuring glomerular filtration rates from routine blood work may not be a cost-effective way to identify people with chronic kidney disease (CKD). The test can lead to 11,348 more false positive CKD cases than serum creatinine reporting.
Scientists have discovered that plums contain high levels of healthy nutrients, including antioxidants and phytonutrients associated with disease prevention. Unlike blueberries, which require multiple servings to reap benefits, plums can provide the full benefit in a single serving, making them an affordable option for consumers.
A study by University of Calgary researchers found that mountain caribou populations are remnants of a blending between two major subspecies of caribou during the last ice age. The analysis of DNA and tracking data showed that they are hybrids with genetic expressions of migratory behavior.
A phase 3 clinical trial has shown that ferumoxytol, a novel intravenous form of iron, is effective in treating iron deficiency in CKD patients on dialysis. The study found significant improvements in hemoglobin levels compared to oral iron supplementation.
The Burroughs Wellcome Fund Inter-school Training Program in Metabolic Disease (BWF-ITP-MD) combines multiple disciplines to understand metabolic diseases, from molecular mechanisms to population health. The program aims to develop comprehensive insights and system strategies to curb the epidemics of obesity and diabetes.
Researchers have found that female hormones play a crucial role in the body's ability to regulate salt levels, potentially explaining why women are less prone to salt-sensitive hypertension. The study suggests that estrogen drives the beneficial action of ETA receptors, which increase sodium excretion without increasing blood pressure.
A study by Université Laval researchers found that omega-3 supplements significantly improved menopause-related mental health problems, including depression and hot flashes, in women aged 40 to 55. However, the effectiveness of omega-3s for more severe depressive symptoms was limited.
Researchers found that fat molecules clog up muscle cells' cytosol but not mitochondrion. By increasing mitochondrial ability to burn fat, muscles become more responsive to insulin. The discovery opens doors to developing new therapies for Type 2 diabetes.
The study found that institutions performing at least 20 lung transplants annually have the best overall patient survival rates and lowest number of deaths from the complex surgery. High-volume centers see over 95% chance of survival for organ recipients within the first month of recovery.
A new study reveals that younger individuals defined as low risk by conventional risk stratification methods may actually have a higher lifetime risk of heart disease. Those in the high-risk group had a greater subclinical disease burden and incidence of atherosclerotic progression, even at younger ages.