A survey of eight European countries found that school closures significantly reduce illness transmission, with a 10% decrease in contacts. Closing schools may have a greater impact on disease transmission during a pandemic, potentially reducing transmission by up to 21%.
Researchers have created a method using microphone arrays to estimate bird population density from recorded sounds, which may also be applied to tracking whales and dolphins. This innovative approach eliminates the need for observers to count birds, providing a more accurate index of abundance.
Researchers developed a genetic screen for human cells to pinpoint specific genes and proteins used by pathogens. The study identified new genes essential for host-pathogen interactions, including those involved in diphtheria and E. coli infections.
Computer science researchers at University of Maryland create virtual worlds using advanced modeling and prediction techniques to analyze military and policy actions. These virtual worlds allow defense analysts to predict the most likely outcomes of different courses of action, enabling them to make informed decisions.
A University of British Columbia study found that air puffs directed at the skin can bias perception of spoken syllables, causing mishearing. The researchers suggest that tactile information plays a significant role in speech perception, similar to how our brain processes visual cues.
A study by Professor Maureen S Durkin and colleagues found that children in low- and middle-income countries are at higher risk of disability due to nutritional deficiencies, lack of early-learning activities, and limited educational access. The researchers analyzed data from 18 countries and found significant associations between disa...
Scientists at Hebrew University of Jerusalem have discovered that tiny molecules called miRNAs play a crucial role in regulating our internal clock. This finding has significant implications for treating sleep deprivation and other disorders related to the daily life cycle.
Scientists at IBM and Purdue University have successfully created ultrasmall transistors using semiconducting nanowires with sharply defined layers of silicon and germanium. This breakthrough could lead to faster computing and more powerful computer chips.
Scientists at EMBL have visualized the molecular mechanism responsible for oskar mRNA transport in Drosophila. By combining immunofluorescence with electron microscopy imaging, they defined a hierarchy of RNA particle assembly. This breakthrough sheds light on development and neuronal function, including synaptic plasticity and learnin...
Researchers have developed two prototype devices to combat drug-resistant bacteria like MRSA. One device can disinfect human skin safely and quickly, while another can target infested chronic wounds for quicker healing.
A large-scale study of over 2,000 children found that hyperactive boys who got less sleep were more likely to have adverse family conditions and shorter sleep duration. In contrast, children who slept persistently for at least 11 hours had lower hyperactivity scores.
A mathematical model demonstrates that disruptive ecological selection can trigger positive feedback between mate choice and ecological diversification, ultimately eliminating gene flow between species. This process can lead to the evolution of specialized ecotypes without divergent mating preferences, a departure from previous studies...
The study found that peatland fires in Indonesia released up to 900 million metric tons of CO2 in 2006, equivalent to 16% of deforestation worldwide emissions. Peatlands store enormous amounts of organic carbon, and human activities like drainage and deforestation make them vulnerable to fire.
A team of scientists led by Dr. Bernard Thébaud has demonstrated that stem cells protect and repair the lungs of newborn rats, boosting the power of healthy lung cells and preventing further damage. This research offers real hope for a new treatment for babies with chronic lung disease.
A comprehensive study on water vole genetics has been conducted by scientists from the University of Granada and Doñana Biological Station. The research reveals essential information for developing successful conservation plans, which will help preserve the genetic diversity of this endangered species.
Researchers found air gaps in roots that formed during dry periods, which partially refilled after irrigation. However, older parts of the taproot showed limited re-establishment of contact, raising concerns about severe drought's impact on plant nutrition.
Researchers reconstructed spatial patterns of ocean and land surface temperature over the past 1500 years using diverse climate proxies. They found dynamic connections between natural phenomena like El Niño and regional temperature changes.
Scientists have discovered the molecular mechanism of action of tetrathiomolybdate, a copper-sequestering drug effective in treating Wilson disease and certain cancers. The study reveals that the drug inhibits copper traffic within cells by sequestering copper chaperones and their cargo in clusters.
Researchers describe molecular anatomy of Mycoplasma pneumoniae, a small bacterium that can survive on its own. The study reveals intricate networks and multifunctional molecules, challenging the idea of a 'minimal' cell.
A study of 15,000 elderly individuals in 11 low- and middle-income countries found dementia to be the largest contributor to disability, followed by stroke, limb impairment, and depression. Chronic diseases, including those of the brain and mind, pose significant challenges for carers and society.