A 400-year study by Harvard University researchers found that Northeastern forests have changed significantly after centuries of intensive land use. Maples have exploded across the region, while other tree types like beeches, oaks, and chestnuts show a pronounced decline. Pine numbers have shifted more than any other tree type.
A UCSB study analyzed USDA data spanning two decades, showing the relationship between landscape simplification and insecticide use varies greatly from year to year. The research suggests that simplistic landscapes may not be better or worse than complex ones when it comes to insect pest problems.
A new UN-backed study reveals that treated wastewater has 'massive potential resource' globally, but data on its usage is scarce. Only 55 countries out of 181 studied have information on wastewater generation, treatment, and reuse.
Researchers found that amyloid beta stimulates Alpha7 nicotinic receptors, triggering astrocytes to release glutamate and overwhelming synapses. A newly modified Alzheimer's drug may block this destructive pathway.
Neutral interstellar atoms flow into the solar system from a different direction than previously observed, according to IBEX measurements. The longitude of the interstellar helium wind has changed by 6.8 degrees over the past 40 years.
A new study by the American Psychological Association finds that people who cheat without causing harm experience an emotional boost, contrary to expectations. The research involved over 1,000 participants and revealed that cheating can lead to feelings of satisfaction, even when the payoff is small.
Tropical Depression Seven strengthened into Tropical Storm Gabrielle just 70 miles south of Ponce, Puerto Rico. The storm brought heavy rains to Puerto Rico and adjacent islands on September 5.
A University of Tennessee professor and student have developed a quick and easy-to-use sensor that can detect trace amounts of biodiesel contamination in diesel. The sensor uses a dye that changes color when biodiesel is present, allowing for rapid detection at concentrations as low as 0.5 parts per million.
Researchers found that basic fibroblast growth factor protects the spinal cord by reducing calcitonin gene-related peptide and acetylcholinesterase expression in damaged motor neurons. This suggests a potential therapeutic application for treating spinal cord injuries.
Researchers investigate protein diversity, finding that many small changes have no impact, but some can significantly affect functionality. The study suggests that the wide functional spectrum of proteins plays a key role in evolution, and may hold the key to personalized medicine.
A recent study published in Current Biology found that the brain represents the space near others in the same way it represents the space near itself. This shared representation could help individuals interact more efficiently and understand social cues more intuitively.
Scientists have identified a protein called MLKL that plays a crucial role in triggering programmed cell death, known as necroptosis. The discovery could lead to the development of new treatments for chronic inflammatory diseases such as Crohn's disease and rheumatoid arthritis.
A new study reveals that only 17% of Earth's land needs to be protected to satisfy the Convention on Biological Diversity's goals, but this area must contain 67% of all plant species. Protecting these hotspots could slow biodiversity loss and meet international targets
Liping Chen's study found that Shuyusan-containing serum increased survival rates of SH-SY5Y cells, reduced Bax expression, and elevated brain-derived neurotrophic factor mRNA expression. The effect was more pronounced at high doses.
A new study reveals that cheetahs do not just rely on speed when hunting, but also anticipate and mirror the escape tactics of their prey. The research found that cheetahs use two primary phases in their chases: a rapid acceleration to catch up with prey, followed by a slowing period to match prey-specific escape maneuvers.
A new authentication system using brain wave biometrics can prevent vehicle hijacking and halt intoxicated drivers. The system continuously scans the driver's brain waves to verify their identity, ensuring safe operation of vehicles carrying valuable commodities and money.
Rice University has been awarded a $2.8 million National Science Foundation grant to establish a multidisciplinary training program in neuroengineering for graduate students. The program, led by bioengineer Robert Raphael, will focus on problem-based learning and the development of online educational resources.
The Malawi-Liverpool-Wellcome Trust Clinical Research Programme will receive £14 million over five years to continue its focus on infectious diseases and training local doctors. The program will also investigate the growing epidemic of non-communicable diseases in Africa, including diabetes and chronic lung disease.
Monash University researchers discovered a safety mechanism that regulates the activation of marginal zone B cells, which can turn against the body. The study found that MZ B cells have a short life span and are triggered by bacteria to express a protein called TACI.
A team of MIT and Washington University researchers developed a terramechanics model called Artemis, simulating rover mobility over various soil types and terrain. The model predicts safest paths for rovers and can help mission planners avoid sand traps like the Spirit rover.
NASA's TRMM satellite sees 'hot towers' in Tropical Depression 12E, suggesting intensification. The hot towers, which reach altitudes of up to 15 km, are associated with heavy rainfall and a higher likelihood of strengthening within six hours.
Scientists have finally mapped the brain region responsible for numerosity, distinguishing between small and large quantities. The discovery reveals a topographical layout of numerosity in the human brain, with neurons organized to facilitate communication and interaction over short distances.
A new study by researchers at the University of Toronto found that independent and financially-literate audit committees lead to higher firm values and less diversion of resources. The study suggests that regulators should maintain flexibility around rules requiring high-quality audit committees, particularly for smaller firms.
A North Carolina State University study analyzed survey results of 180 construction industry professionals to identify factors contributing to time buffers. The researchers found that protecting the reputation of the construction company and delays in obtaining necessary permits can significantly lengthen time buffers.
The University of Michigan has released seven technical reports on hydraulic fracturing in Michigan, exploring its potential economic benefits and environmental risks. The studies found that while natural gas reserves exist in the state, high-volume hydraulic fracturing may not be feasible due to low gas prices and drilling costs.
Researchers at Albert Einstein College of Medicine found that inner-ear dysfunction can cause neurological changes leading to hyperactivity in mice. The study implicated two brain proteins involved in a signaling pathway that controls movement, providing potential targets for medication.
A new study suggests that religious leaders, particularly those from Christianity, have the potential to guide conservation efforts and promote biodiversity preservation. The research highlights the importance of involving religious groups in the conservation debate, as they often shape people's ethical attitudes towards nature.
Recent study reveals that coldest brown dwarfs are warmer than initially thought, with temperatures around 250-350 degrees Fahrenheit. This challenges current understanding of their behavior and raises questions about the role of other factors in driving chemistry at their surfaces.
A survey of 4200 students found that many children are bullied online, with few understanding internet safety. Parental involvement in monitoring internet activity is also low, exacerbating the issue.
A study by Brigham Young University researchers found that individuals who lie in digital conversations, such as texting or social media, tend to be slower to respond, edit their messages less, and provide shorter answers compared to truthful responses.
A study found that human gut bacteria can transmit lean or obese traits to mice depending on their diet, highlighting the importance of diet in shaping gut microbiota. The researchers identified specific bacterial species that play a role in metabolism and obesity, paving the way for personalized probiotic therapies.
Professor Julia Yeomans has been awarded the EPJE Pierre-Gilles de Gennes Lecture Prize for her outstanding work in soft matter and biological physics, particularly in the study of complex and active liquids. She is also an expert in theoretical and computational physics.
Researchers from the University of Houston have discovered the largest single volcano ever documented on Earth, dubbed Tamu Massif, covering an area roughly equivalent to the British Isles. The volcano, located off the coast of Japan, is nearly as large as Mars' Olympus Mons and features a unique shield-like shape.
Tropical Storm Gabrielle has weakened to a depression by Sept. 5, while three other low pressure areas struggle to develop in the Northern Atlantic Ocean. Heavy rainfall is expected in Puerto Rico and the US Virgin Islands, with isolated maximum amounts of up to 8 inches possible.
Researchers have created a protein molecule that can be programmed to unite with three different steroids, opening up possibilities for biosensors, molecular sponges, and synthetic biology. The breakthrough could lead to detection of biomolecules in early-stage cancer and treatment of overdoses.
A UCLA study demonstrates that combining behavioral science with social media and online communities can lead to increased HIV testing and encouraged significant behavioral change among high-risk groups. The approach proved to be one of the best HIV-prevention methods on the Internet, with high retention rates and successful engagement.
The American Thyroid Association's Taskforce on Approaches and Strategies to Investigate Thyroid Hormone Economy has released a comprehensive guide with 70 specific recommendations to standardize study design in thyroid research. This will lead to more standardized approaches, improving the comparability of results and informing the de...
A new publication by the European Respiratory Society reveals that lung conditions account for 12.5% of EU deaths, with annual costs totaling at least 390 billion Euros. The White Book estimates direct and indirect costs due to lung diseases are around 400 billion Euros annually.
Scientists mapping our location in the Milky Way galaxy discover interstellar wind changes over decades, impacting our sun's heliosphere and cosmic radiation protection. The study's findings provide deeper insight into dynamic interstellar winds, crucial for understanding our place in the cosmos.
A new study found that certain immune cells help cancer stem cells survive and thrive. This finding has significant implications for the development of targeted therapies to eliminate cancer.
A study reveals that China's dominance in solar panel manufacturing is driven by larger-scale production and supply-chain benefits, not just cheaper labor. Future innovations in crystalline solar cell technology may help equalize prices by enhancing access to materials and expanding manufacturing scale across regions.
Active prenatal intervention is crucial for optimal outcomes in intrauterine growth-restricted fetuses. Taurine supplement reduces cell apoptosis and promotes neuroprotection through specific signaling pathways.
Researchers used seismic waves to discover long 'fingers' of heat in Earth's upper mantle, stretching thousands of miles. These finger-like structures carrying heat interact with tectonic plates and hot plumes, influencing the formation of hotspot volcanoes.
Researchers at Washington University in St. Louis have created a new class of materials that change their electronic properties when exposed to light. The composite material combines gold nanorods and zinc oxide, leading to improved performance in solar cells and potential applications for sensitive sensors.
Overgrazing by millions of sheep and goats is causing degradation of the Mongolian Steppe, a significant grassland ecosystem. About 12% of biomass has disappeared, with 70% of the ecosystem considered degraded.
Researchers found that apoptosis can reactivate latent herpesviruses in dying cells, which could have significant clinical implications. This discovery highlights the potential for cytotoxic cancer chemotherapies to activate dormant viruses, raising questions about the use of antiviral medications in treatment.
Researchers have discovered that non-adherent bone marrow stem cells can differentiate into neuronal-like cells in vitro and in vivo. These findings suggest that non-adherent BMSCs could be used as seed cells to treat nervous system diseases.
Scientists have detected previously unknown channels of slow-moving seismic waves in Earth's upper mantle, helping explain the formation of hotspot volcanoes like Hawaii and Tahiti. The discovery provides an important piece of the puzzle in understanding these volcanoes' complex interactions with plumes and the shallow upper mantle.
A study published in PeerJ found that nearly 50% of scientific resources are unidentifiable due to a lack of detail in journal articles. Researchers developed guidelines for reporting research resources to aid reproducibility, but these did not improve identification rates.
Research from the University of Adelaide found that pregnant women with asthma who smoke are at greater risk of complications, including preterm birth and low birth weight. The study suggests that quitting smoking during pregnancy can lead to some improvement in risks to the child.
Researchers at Kansas State University have discovered a new three-atom-thick material, molybdenum disulfide, and found that manipulating it with gold atoms improves its electrical characteristics. This breakthrough could lead to advancements in transistors, photodetectors, sensors, and thermally conductive coatings.
The report identifies substantial opportunities for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and conserving scarce water resources by generating renewable energy. It highlights the potential for water sector innovation to increase renewable energy capacity, particularly in states like California.
Researchers in China have developed a mathematical model to design flexible vehicle-arrest systems that increase stopping distance and dissipate kinetic energy without destruction. The new system could lead to the development of intelligent vehicle-arrest systems with improved control at roadblocks and checkpoints.
New research from Carnegie Institution for Science reveals that coral bleaching occurs even when algae are heat-stressed in the dark, suggesting novel mechanisms beyond toxic oxygen molecules. The study provides key details on the breakdown of photosynthetic apparatus and potential strategies to mitigate bleaching.
A new study found that sleep deprivation leads to increased food purchasing the following day, with participants buying more calories and grams of food. Additionally, ghrelin levels were higher after total sleep deprivation, but this increase did not correlate with food purchasing behavior.
A quarter of mature female tiger sharks migrate from Northwestern to Main Hawaiian Islands, coinciding with shark birth season and months of highest bite risk. The researchers found that tiger sharks do not stay resident in specific bays for long periods, debunking the territoriality hypothesis.
Physicists at the University of Houston have discovered a non-toxic material that can convert waste heat from vehicle tailpipes, industrial smokestacks, and power plants into electricity. The new compound, tin telluride with indium, shows promise in boosting vehicle mileage by up to 5% and power plant efficiency by as much as 10%.
Researchers identify a rare genetic disorder, cblX, linked to Vitamin B12 metabolism, which can cause severe health problems. The discovery was made possible by studying a Colorado boy named Max Watson and his family, who participated in the study.
Researchers have discovered a compound that successfully blocks smooth muscle growth and promotes repair of the injured endothelium in stented arteries. This innovation has the potential to eliminate blood clots forming inside stents, reducing the risk of complications.
Researchers at Caltech have developed a method to create nanostructured, hollow ceramic scaffolds with remarkable strength and resistance to failure. The small building blocks of the structure exhibit unusually high tensile strength despite being over 85% air.