Recent studies have revealed that systems on the verge of a critical transition often emit comparable warning signals. This phenomenon, known as Critical Slowing Down, allows for early recognition of such transitions.
The project aims to optimise the process of reducing lead in tap water by identifying the least soluble minerals. Researchers will investigate water from various sources and work on-site at Yorkshire Water treatment plants.
Canadian Institute for Quantum Computing research focuses on harnessing quantum laws to develop game-changing technologies. Experts hope to engineer benefits of quantum mechanics in sensor technology.
A new University of Iowa study suggests that diabetes may be linked to an increased risk of death from heart attacks due to the over-activation of a key enzyme. In diabetic mice, this enzyme's activation led to abnormal heart rhythms and an elevated risk of sudden death.
Anthropologist Robert W. Sussman explores the dangers of eugenics and the importance of cultural understanding in addressing human behavior. He argues that most individual variances result from social, environmental, and cultural exposure rather than genetics.
Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center identified a new enzyme, cyclic GMP-AMP synthase (cGAS), that acts as an innate immunity sensor. The discovery sheds light on the mechanism underlying immune responses to foreign DNA and may lead to new treatments for autoimmune diseases.
The precise determination of genomic information is hindered by a lack of understanding of sequence variations. Interdisciplinary teams are needed to address the substantial uncertainty in interpreting genomic data for better application.
A new study found that a commonly used breast cancer risk prediction model developed for African Americans tends to underestimate risk in certain subgroups, particularly those who first gave birth at an older age. The researchers conclude that a better risk model is needed for estrogen receptor-negative breast cancer, a subtype disprop...
A Stanford ecologist is using social media data to estimate the number of user-days for locations around the world, illuminating where people go and how visitation rates change. This approach can predict changes in recreational value after environmental changes, providing a novel solution to expensive empirical data requirements.
Research suggests that human-driven climate change will lead to more frequent and severe weather events in the US, including multi-day heat waves and heavy precipitation. As a result, extreme weather-related disasters are expected to incur significant expenses, affecting both public funds and private equity.
Researchers at Rutgers University have demonstrated extremely flexible organic semiconductors that can withstand multiple bending cycles, paving the way for thin-sheet plastic displays or wearable circuitry. The technology has the potential to enable low-cost printed electronics with applications in various industries.
Research at Umea University found that extreme winter conditions impact fish negatively, particularly in streams and rivers with radical flow changes and anchor ice formation. The study highlights the need for more measurements and consideration of winter conditions in models to manage streams and rivers sustainably.
The shift from four-footed walking to bipedalism has resulted in various physical challenges, including flat feet, bunions, and slipped discs. As humans adapted to upright walking, the spine developed an S-shaped structure, leading to conditions like lordosis and scoliosis.
Researchers at the University of Innsbruck successfully reversed a quantum measurement using quantum error correction protocol, which contradicts foundational principles. This experiment demonstrates that information can be reconstructed from entangled states after individual particle measurements.
Researchers found that cigarette smoke-induced miRNA alterations promote lung carcinogenesis by repressing miR-487b. Additionally, high levels of ox-CaMKII are linked to increased risk of sudden death after heart attack in diabetic patients, suggesting a potential mechanism for increased mortality.
Researchers discovered that Achilles tendons retain high levels of carbon-14 from the Cold War era, indicating limited renewal and a slow healing process. This finding explains why tendon injuries often persist for years, but also opens up opportunities for developing new treatments to provoke dormant cells into repairing the tendon.
Experts from Spain have discovered a new genus of crustacean, Triodonthea, and five new species within the Lauriea genus in the Pacific and Indian Oceans. These species are genetically distinct but morphologically similar, with some being endemic to specific regions.
A new species of forcepfly (Mecoptera, Meropeidae) was discovered in Brazil's Atlantic Forest biome, representing the third extant species described in this family. The discovery highlights the importance of conservation efforts for this threatened ecosystem.
A recent study reveals that cigarette smoke-induced miRNA expression alterations, specifically the repression of miR-487b, play a crucial role in lung carcinogenesis. Loss of miR-487b increases oncogene expression and enhances tumor proliferation, invasion, and metastasis in both normal and cancer cells.
Researchers developed a hyperbolic metamaterial waveguide to catch a 'rainbow' of wavelengths, halting and absorbing each frequency of light. This advancement could lead to new technologies in electronics, solar panels, and stealth coating materials.
Researchers found that tetrahydroxystilbene glucoside (TSG) reverses α-synuclein overexpression and accumulation in a mouse model of Alzheimer's disease. The study suggests TSG may have therapeutic potential for preventing and treating AD.
Researchers found that forces between individual grains are what drives changes in behavior and state of granular materials like sand or dirt, not temperature. This discovery reveals a new understanding of how granular systems equilibrate, challenging the conventional wisdom on thermodynamics.
The domestication of wild plants for biofuel use can increase virus pressure in crop areas unless mitigated. Perennial plants in nature grow slower but are better equipped to fight off viruses, whereas annual plants can serve as 'amplifiers' producing lots of viruses and insects.
Researchers at Berkeley Lab's Advanced Light Source are transforming X-ray microscopy into a widely available form of high-resolution imaging. State-of-the-art instruments can create three-dimensional images with elemental and/or chemical sensitivity, allowing for unprecedented insights into biological systems.
Diabetic patients are more likely to die from a heart attack, and high levels of ox-CaMKII may be the key. Researchers found that reducing CamKII oxidation could help treat diabetic patients with cardiovascular disease.
Mari Uchimoto's award-winning presentation at ANZFSS International Symposium showcased a new method to identify body fluids using microRNA analysis, potentially aiding rape cases. This technique can distinguish between different bodily fluids, providing vital evidence for prosecutions or defenses.
A recent analysis of almost 150 BPA studies shows that human exposure levels are likely too low for estrogenic effects. The study found that blood concentrations of BPA are many times lower than those causing toxicity in animals, suggesting that animal studies may not accurately reflect the human BPA experience.
Physicists at the University of Vienna created nano-machines that replicate protein functions, enabling innovative pharmaceutical research. These 'bionic proteins' could be used as stable drug delivery vehicles and enzyme-like catalysts, revolutionizing various biological processes.
Researchers found that handedness plays a key role in controlling the Vestibular-Ocular Reflex (VOR), a primitive reflex involving eye movement. The study suggests that higher-order brain functions govern this reflex, contradicting previous assumptions of its low-level control.
Children who overreact to stressors may be at risk of becoming overweight or obese, according to Penn State researchers. The study found that kids with poor cortisol recovery after a stress test consumed more calories even when hungry, increasing their BMI and obesity risk.
Researchers at Case Western Reserve University discovered a missing RNA element that significantly improves the effectiveness of gene therapy. The element, called Genomic RNA Packaging Enhancer element (GRPE), coordinates the production and filling of genetic material in viral vectors.
State Medicaid programs offering coverage for birth doulas may capture cost savings associated with reduced cesarean rates, benefiting diverse, low-income women. Doula support improves birth outcomes and enhances the mother's birth experience.
A study by the American Academy of Sleep Medicine reveals that insomnia and nightmares can increase the risk of suicidal thoughts. The study suggests that targeted assessment and treatment of sleep problems may reduce this risk in people with depressive symptoms.
Researchers found that fish exposed to anxiety-moderating drugs like Oxazepam became bolder and less social, leading to changes in their hunting behavior. This can have serious ecological consequences, including disturbance of the balance in aquatic environments.
The recycling of discarded consumer goods can make a big contribution to efficient management of non-renewable raw materials. A new international process is being launched to develop quality and sustainability standards for secondary raw materials, focusing on three main areas: improving basic data and support for pilot projects.
A study in Seychelles found that environmental education programs for children led to increased parental knowledge of wetlands and environmentally friendly behaviors. Parents of children who participated in these programs were more likely to conserve water, reduce waste, and adopt eco-friendly habits.
A study by University of Wisconsin-Madison researchers found that the tone of online blog comments can significantly influence public perception of nanotechnology. Civility in online forums is lacking, leading to a Wild West environment where exposure to rude comments can sway perceptions of risk.
A recent study found a strong association between income inequality and hospital readmission risk, particularly for patients with heart attacks, heart failure, and pneumonia. The researchers estimated nearly 40,000 extra admissions due to income inequality over the three year period.
A team of astronomers used the VIMOS instrument on the VLT to study a one-thousand-year-old supernova remnant. They found evidence of rapidly moving protons in the gas, which could be the necessary seed particles for cosmic rays to form.
A study suggests a link between untreated depression and decreased response to the shingles vaccine in older adults. Depression treatment, however, boosts cell-mediated immunity and increases vaccine effectiveness.
A new study reveals that nearly 1 in 5 reptiles are struggling to survive, with many species highly specialized and sensitive to environmental changes. The findings highlight the urgent need for conservation action to address habitat loss, hunting, and other threats, particularly in tropical regions.
Researchers at the University of Illinois have created a novel, ultra-sensitive tool for chemical, DNA, and protein analysis using nanoscale Lycurgus cup arrays. The sensor boasts 100 times better sensitivity than existing devices, enabling low-cost, simple, and sensitive detection methods.
Researchers have discovered a vast potential for noncoding RNAs to be used as therapeutic and diagnostic tools. Long noncoding RNAs play significant roles in various diseases, including cancer, diabetes, and other conditions. The emerging concept of microRNAs functioning as hormones has also led to new avenues for disease treatment.
Electrical engineers have discovered a way to use high-frequency sound waves to enhance magnetic storage, offering a new approach to improve data storage. The technology uses ultrasound to create elasticity in magnetic materials, allowing for reliable data storage without concerns around heating.
Researchers at Duke University Medical Center identified a defect in bladder immune memory that hampers a timely attack against bacterial infections. The study found that mast cells produce an immune-suppressing molecule, leading to a lack of antibody response and stifling immune memory.
Researchers found increased activation in brain regions utilized by typically developing kids after four months of Pivotal Response Treatment. This suggests improved social engagement and processing of low-level social stimuli. The study's findings have implications for early intervention and potential long-term benefits.
Researchers have found six regions of the genome where humans and chimpanzees share identical genetic variants, suggesting that these traits date back to a common ancestor. This study highlights the importance of balancing selection in maintaining genetic variation and fending off infectious disease.
A recent study found that radical prostatectomy (RP) lowers prostate cancer deaths in a subgroup of patients with a significant absolute mortality difference. However, another trial showed non-statistically significant results, raising questions about the impact of more frequent screening detection.
A new type of nanoscale engine uses quantum dots to convert waste heat into electrical power, potentially making microcircuits more efficient. The system exploits resonant tunneling and can generate a significant amount of power depending on the temperature difference across the energy harvester.
Infants in bilingual environments use pitch and duration cues to discriminate between languages, such as English and Japanese, with opposite word orders. Babies as young as seven months can begin to learn these differences and develop new strategies for language separation.
Researchers at UC San Diego identify three characteristics of biological materials that can be emulated in man-made materials: light weight, toughness and strength. Bio-inspired designs from nature could lead to better body armor, lighter aircraft and stronger materials.
Researchers found a new aspect of cell adhesion involving integrins, which are strengthened by cyclical applications of force, prolonging bond lifetimes and shedding light on possible mechanisms for sensing extracellular topography.
New research suggests that self-objectification can reduce women's motivation to challenge the gender status quo and participate in social action. This phenomenon is linked to increased justification of the gender status quo, leading to reduced willingness to engage in activism.
A recent study using an animal model revealed that a single genetic mutation led to several common traits in East Asian populations, including thicker hair and denser sweat glands. The researchers found that the mutation is at least 15,000 years old and emerged around 30,000 years ago in central China.
A new study offers conclusive evidence that cosmic ray protons within our galaxy are accelerated in the shock waves produced by supernovae. Researchers detected the spectral cutoff in the gamma ray spectrum due to the decay of neutral pions, connecting gamma rays to accelerated protons.
Researchers at World Agroforestry Centre developed nomographs to map out fire behavior, pinpointing optimal conditions for early-season prescribed fires. These controlled burns reduce the risk of late dry season bushfires, exacerbated by climate change.
A study by Umeå University researchers found that even small amounts of anxiety-moderating drugs like Oxazepam can change the behavior and feeding rates of wild European perch. The fish became bolder, less social, and ate faster after exposure to the drug.
A study of 606,877 live births in Belgium found that smoking bans led to a reduction in the risk of preterm birth, with decreases evident after each phase of legislation. The findings suggest that smoking bans have public health benefits from early life and support stricter smoke-free policies.
Researchers used police department records to determine gang memberships based on social and geographical information, identifying hotspots and clusters of individuals with similar behavior. The study showed that incorporating both social and geographic distance in models of gang violence provides more comprehensive analysis.
A new study finds that losing hope for a good night's sleep increases the risk of suicidal thoughts, independent of other types of hopelessness. The study suggests that addressing insomnia and negative thoughts about sleep can help prevent suicidal behavior.