A recent study found that random fluctuations in brain cell activity may influence our choices when faced with equal options. The research suggests that the orbitofrontal cortex plays a key role in decision-making and that neuronal signals can be biased by random noise, leading to close calls.
Researchers estimate that coastal areas absorb approximately 250 million metric tons of carbon each year, compared to a century ago when they released about 150 million metric tons. This shift suggests that coastal oceans play a crucial role in the global carbon cycle and can help counteract climate change.
A new review finds that sea level rise and shoreline retreat are the two most certain factors expected to increase future flood risk from tropical cyclones. Accelerated sea level rise will significantly intensify flooding by these storms.
A study published in The Journal of Mammalogy found that female prairie dogs who mate with two or more males rear more offspring than those that mate with only one male. The research, led by John Hoogland, suggests that the benefits of polyandry outweigh the costs for most species of prairie dogs.
Researchers explore the connection between pesticides and Parkinson's disease, discovering two genetic mutations linked to increased risk in pesticide-exposed individuals. The study highlights the complexity of the disease and the need for further investigation into pesticide exposure and its potential effects on human health.
Astronomers have glimpsed the infrastructure of a gamma-ray burst jet using observations from the Liverpool Telescope's RINGO2 instrument. The study reveals that light from the reverse shock wave, which drives back into the jet debris, shows strong and stable polarized emissions.
The Lunar Atmosphere and Dust Environment Explorer (LADEE) has completed its commissioning phase, with all three science instruments deemed healthy. The LADEE spacecraft is now in a high-altitude preliminary orbit, preparing for its 100-day science mission to gather information about the moon's structure and composition.
A recent study by Mark Baker and colleagues has identified nine proteins that contribute to the cherished aroma of black Périgord truffles. The researchers also discovered biomarkers of authenticity, freshness, and perfume maturation, shedding light on this culinary delicacy.
Researchers discovered ultrafast recycling of synaptic vesicles in nerve cells, allowing for rapid signal transmission and potentially protecting against neurodegenerative diseases. This process enables the brain and muscles to function continuously without interruption.
A young star formed in the Milky Way galaxy underwent an explosive growth, becoming 100 times brighter than its current state within the past 100-1,000 years. This sudden increase was caused by a chemical reaction that enabled the formation of complex molecules like methanol.
Researchers found that new vibration absorbers can reduce wheel squeal in public rail systems, but had a modest impact on rolling noise. The devices attach to the wheels or tracks of rail transit systems and may be effective in reducing wheel squeal, but more testing is needed to fully understand their effectiveness.
Scientists at Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center developed a method to count tumor-infiltrating T lymphocytes reliably and quickly, which correlates with improved survival rates. The technology has the potential to predict treatment response, cancer recurrence, and disease-free survival earlier and more effectively.
Researchers found TLR4 signaling increases apoptotic ratio in hippocampal neurons stimulated by lipopolysaccharide. Inhibiting AKT and GSK-3β pathways decreases active Caspase-3 and Bax/Bcl-2 ratios, suggesting a new target for neurodegenerative disease treatment.
Researchers measured sound levels at a Formula 1 track and found that without protection, spectators could reach 234% or 85.85 dB of their daily allowed noise dosage going by Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) standards. The study suggests wearing good hearing protection is essential to avoid permanent damage.
Researchers at MIT found that the Arctic Ocean is becoming a more efficient carbon sink due to increased biological growth in summer months. However, some regions, such as the Barents Sea, become carbon sources, emitting carbon dioxide into the atmosphere.
A team of Montréal researchers discovered that the protein PC7 plays a critical role in the brain by affecting cognitive performance such as anxiety, learning, and emotional memory. The study found that mice lacking PC7 had impaired episodic and emotional memories, while exhibiting increased levels of dopamine in the brain.
Researchers at Emory University have confirmed their methods and results by replicating a previous study involving 13 dogs. The experiment showed that most dogs exhibited a positive response in the caudate region when given a hand signal indicating a treat, suggesting similarities with human brain function.
The Van Allen Probes mission reveals that high-energy particles in Earth's radiation belts can be accelerated to nearly the speed of light by ultra-low frequency electromagnetic waves. Scientists hope to use this discovery to better predict space weather conditions and protect orbiting satellites.
A CU-Boulder-led team has discovered that ring-tailed lemurs in Madagascar consistently sleep in limestone chambers for their nightly rest. The behavior provides safety from predators, access to water and nutrients, and refuge from human activities.
Researchers have determined the structure of TRPV1, a protein that plays a central role in pain perception and heat sensation, at near-atomic resolution using electron cryo-microscopy. This breakthrough offers fresh insights to drug designers searching for new pain treatments and sheds light on the protein's unique properties.
A UConn research team has found a way to stabilize hemoglobin, the oxygen carrier protein in the blood, by wrapping it in a polymer chain. This discovery could lead to the development of stable vaccines and affordable artificial blood substitutes.
A new study reveals that even low levels of daily UVA1 exposure can cause skin damage and premature aging. Researchers found that just two daily exposures can start the skin-aging process, highlighting the need for better sunscreens to protect against these damaging rays.
Astronomers have discovered the youngest known neutron-star binary, Circinus X-1, which is approximately 4,600 years old. The team used data from NASA's Chandra X-ray Observatory to determine the age of this record-breaking pair, revealing a unique opportunity to study matter under extreme conditions.
Researchers developed a method to feed dyed leaves to silkworms, producing colored silk fibers without harsh chemicals. The study successfully incorporated azo dyes into the caterpillars' silk, paving the way for more environmentally friendly textile production.
A study by Jiang et al. found that baicalin inhibited colistin sulfate-induced neuronal apoptosis in PC12 cells by suppressing free radical injury, reducing caspase-3 activity and lactate dehydrogenase activity. Cell viability increased, and cell morphology improved.
A new study found that antiretroviral therapy has saved 2.8 million years of life in South Africa since 2004, with projections of an additional 15.1 million years saved by 2030. Aggressive HIV testing and treatment strategies could further increase these benefits.
A new analysis published in Nature suggests that the coastal ocean now takes in more carbon dioxide than it releases, potentially impacting global predictions related to climate change. Researchers propose a mechanism for the shift, which could make the coastal ocean a more important carbon sink in the future.
A study by Dr. Edward Anderson found that time differences have a negative and statistically significant impact on merchandise trade, particularly in goods trade. The research analyzed 55 years' worth of data on exports between 146 countries and found that each hour of time difference reduces international goods trade by between two an...
Researchers analyzed tongue twisters to understand the brain's speech-planning processes. They found that different types of tongue twisters induced distinct speech errors, revealing key differences in brain processing.
Researchers assessed MR-guided focused ultrasound (MRgFUS) in 12 patients with invasive ductal breast cancer. The procedure proved safe and effective, with 10 patients showing no residual disease post-surgery. Continuous MRI monitoring allowed for precise temperature control during the ablation process.
A new study reveals that ocean acidification causes anxious behavior in juvenile rockfish, affecting their ability to forage and navigate. The researchers found that the affected fish preferred dark areas and showed altered behavior even after being returned to normal seawater.
A study found that women who had more frequent screening mammography had a significantly lower rate of lymph node positivity, improving patient prognosis. The researchers suggest that following guidelines recommending annual screening beginning at age 40 may benefit breast cancer patients.
A study of over 1,000 New Zealanders found that those who attempted suicide before age 24 had higher rates of metabolic syndrome, depression, and unemployment later in life. These individuals were also more likely to be hospitalized for psychiatric problems and reported feeling lonely and dissatisfied with life.
A new study published in Demography reveals that improvements in education levels around the world have been key drivers of economic growth in developing countries. In contrast to previous assumptions, the researchers found that declines in fertility rates do not lead to economic development.
Research on tween television programs found that girls are portrayed as more attractive and concerned about their appearance, while boys are stereotypically depicted as brave in action-adventure genres. This can shape children's self-concepts and conceptions of gender roles.
A study found that 74.8% of obese patients were poor sleepers, with significant associations between sleep quality and mood disturbance, as well as anxiety and depression. The study highlights the importance of screening for sleep problems in individuals with severe obesity to improve quality of life.
New research estimates that over a third of twin births and three-quarters of triplets in the US are caused by fertility treatments. Non-IVF fertility treatments have increased to become the leading cause of medically assisted multiple births, while IVF is now often producing twins.
A new study by Smithsonian researchers at Harvard-Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics shows that iPad-based simulations improve student understanding of astronomical scale, compared to traditional classroom instruction. Students grasped the concept more effectively when using iPads to explore 3-D simulations of the universe.
A new study has identified five distinct humpback whale populations in the North Pacific Ocean, which could impact conservation efforts. The research used genetic analysis to determine population differences and migratory patterns.
A new fossil species, Niassodon mfumukasi, has been discovered in Mozambique, providing new data on the evolution of ancient mammal relatives. The fossil, dated to approximately 256 million years ago, belongs to a group of synapsids that dominated land communities during the Late Permian period.
Researchers at Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center used Droplet Digital PCR to quantify tumor-infiltrating T-lymphocytes (TILs), a subpopulation of immune cells that improve cancer survival. Higher TIL levels correlate positively with patient survival, suggesting an active role in suppressing tumor formation. The study paves the way...
Researchers developed a novel biomimetic tissue engineered bone graft that successfully repaired bone defects in rabbits. The graft, consisting of rabbit adipose derived stem cells and a porous beta-tricalcium phosphate scaffold, promoted osteogenesis and was biocompatible.
The OCEAN CERTAIN project aims to improve understanding of the biological pump, a process that absorbs carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and stores it in marine sediments. The four-year, $12 million project will investigate the importance of this process in shaping future climate change.
Scientists at the University of Maryland have developed a novel RNA-Seq analysis method that reveals the complex interplay between invading bacterial pathogens and their host mammalian cells. The study found that human immune responses to chlamydial infection contribute to disease, leading to tissue scarring.
Research reveals that African-American college students are aware of the benefits of breast-feeding for infants, yet many hesitate due to social stigma and discomfort in public. The study suggests that early education and exposure can encourage positive attitudes towards breast-feeding among young Black women.
An estimated 463 children in England start smoking every day, while 55 and 30 do so in Scotland and Wales respectively. Smoking at a young age poses significant health risks, including lung development issues and increased cancer risk.
Researchers have successfully paired bacteria with loofahs to create a power-generating microbial fuel cell, outperforming traditional devices. This innovative method uses low-cost, sustainable natural materials to generate clean energy from waste.
Researchers at EPFL have discovered a method to fit pulses together within optical fibers, increasing the capacity by up to ten times. This approach reduces the unused empty space for data in the fiber, enabling faster and more reliable data transmission.
A recent study found that the death of an adult son significantly increased depressive symptoms in mothers, but not fathers. Mothers who relied heavily on their sons for support experienced greater declines in overall health and wellbeing. In contrast, the loss of a daughter had no impact on parental wellbeing.
Researchers have identified a new potent and selective PI3Kdelta inhibitor, GS-9820, which regulates osteoclast shape and resorptive activity. This discovery offers a potential new approach for treating inflammatory bone diseases and skeletal metastases.
A team of scientists found that male katydids can synchronize their chirps in the presence of a masking trill, with the ability to detect low-frequency components. The researchers used tiny hook electrodes to study the neural activity of katydids and discovered that an auditory neuron was involved in detecting these frequency components.
A study led by Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center researchers found that carbon monoxide can prevent tumor growth and amplify chemotherapy's effects, sparing healthy tissue. The findings suggest CO induces an 'anti-Warburg' effect, fueling cancer cell bioenergetics until metabolic exhaustion.
Researchers found that even DOD-approved soundproof rooms can be compromised by poor design and sealing issues. To improve security, acoustic door seals and mandatory entry vestibules are proposed as remedies.
A team of researchers from The Wistar Institute and the University of Pennsylvania are working on a five-year project to better understand melanoma biology and develop more effective treatments for the disease. They aim to overcome drug resistance by targeting different mutations and combinations of therapies.
A study published in JAMA found that simulation-based communication skills training had no effect on the quality of end-of-life care, but was associated with a small increase in patients' symptoms of depression. The researchers suggest that skills transfer from simulation training to actual patient care may be inadequate.
Two teams of scientists used NASA's Hubble Space Telescope to detect faint water signals in the atmospheres of five distant planets. The strengths of their water signatures varied, with some planets having stronger signals than expected.
Researchers aim to adapt photosynthesis for artificial use as an abundant source of renewable energy. They are using advanced spectroscopic techniques to describe the exact atomic-level mechanism of the oxygen-evolving complex through the remaining five S-states.
A study examining incidence and trend of substance use disorder among medical residents found that 0.86% had a confirmed SUD during training, with increasing rates over the study period.
Researchers at Children's National Hospital have discovered two distinct subtypes of pediatric diffuse intrinsic pontine gliomas (DIPGs), a type of brain stem tumor that is almost always lethal. The study found that these subtypes are associated with poorer overall survival rates, particularly for patients with histone 3 mutations.
Digital breast tomosynthesis (DBT) led to reduced recall rates and an increase in cancer detection compared to digital mammography. The study found that DBT decreased the average recall rate by 1.62% and increased the cancer detection rate by 21.5%.