A groundbreaking study found that the Los Angeles LGBT Center's voter persuasion methods reduced anti-gay prejudice and may have potential to reduce other forms of prejudice. The approach, involving one-on-one conversations, had a long-lasting impact on changing conservative voters' minds.
A study led by the University of Barcelona found that tourism, fishing, and sea transport are compromising the wellbeing of common bottlenose dolphins in the Pityusic Islands. The researchers estimate there are only a few hundred dolphins in the area, and conservation measures are needed to protect them.
The study provides insights into how penguins have adapted to the cold Antarctic environment through complex biological systems. The researchers identified genes related to beta-keratins, lipid metabolism, and forelimb evolution that are unique to penguins.
Researchers found a way for cells to encode information about incoming chemical signals, given their variable states. By analyzing responses over time, they eliminated the 'noise' of cellular variability and accurately recorded signal levels.
Researchers at the Buck Institute discovered that senescent cells secrete PDGF-AA, which accelerates wound closure and heals wounds normally. This finding suggests that cellular senescence may play a beneficial role in human health throughout the lifespan.
Researchers have discovered that birds and humans share the same genes to produce speech, with similar brain circuitry involved in singing behavior. The study, led by Duke neuroscientist Erich Jarvis, reveals that vocal learning evolved twice or three times among songbirds, parrots, and hummingbirds.
A study published in Medical Care found that hospitals adopting surgical robots performed more partial nephrectomies, an underutilized procedure that preserves functioning kidney tissue. The increased use of partial nephrectomy may be attributed to improved magnification and manual dexterity provided by the robots.
A new study published in Neurology eliminated hepatitis C virus as a cause of mental impairment in HIV patients. The research, conducted by a team of scientists at Washington University School of Medicine, involved 1,582 HIV patients and found no evidence that hepatitis C infection affects the brain.
Research reveals that blocking androgen receptors can reduce the growth of estrogen-positive breast cancers and kill triple-negative breast cancer cells. Combining these drugs with HER2 or mTOR-targeting therapies shows promise for increased effectiveness in treating breast cancer.
Researchers identified two lipid metabolites, lysophosphatidylcholine and sphingomyelin, associated with reduced risk of coronary heart disease, while monoglyceride was linked to increased risk. The study's findings suggest that these blood lipid metabolites could serve as predictors for cardiovascular disease.
A new computational technique developed at UT Austin has enabled the construction of an avian tree of life that sheds light on bird evolution, including a 'big bang' in timing and rearranged evolutionary relationships. The study analyzed entire bird genomes, providing new insights into song pattern recognition and other traits.
A team of scientists completed the largest whole genome study of a single class of animals to date, sequencing and comparing full genomes of 48 bird species. The study resolves early branches in the tree of life of modern birds, providing new insights into their evolutionary history and adaptation to different lifestyles.
A new study by the University of Exeter Medical School found that residents in energy-efficient social housing may have a greater risk of developing asthma. The presence of mould doubled this risk, highlighting the need for residents to properly ventilate their homes to prevent health issues.
Researchers at the University of Southampton have found that a specific form of antibody, IgG2B, is more effective at stimulating cancer immunity than others. By engineering antibodies into a locked B structure, they aim to create stronger immune stimulators for cancer patients.
A study from Purdue University reveals that invasive species can transform landscapes in various ways, including altering sedimentation rates and changing stream channels. The review highlights the importance of identifying high-risk areas and understanding the impacts of invasive microbial organisms.
A four-year project studied the genome sequence of 48 bird species, shedding light on how they evolved and adapted. The research revealed new candidate gene associations with vocal learning, skeletal development, and plumage for mating display.
A USF study found that many college students perceive hookah as a safer alternative to cigarette smoking, despite the risks associated with it. The research highlights the need for public health campaigns to address misunderstandings about hookah use and its potential hazards.
A new statistical model explains the emergence of major world religions around rising affluence in Eurasia. Researchers found that as individuals reached a threshold of 20,000 kcal/day, they experienced increased peace and security, leading to a shift towards moralizing religions.
A new study led by researchers at University of California, San Diego School of Medicine found that obese children's brains show enhanced responses to sugar. The study suggests that this 'food reward' response may predispose them to crave more sugar throughout life.
Researchers used attosecond XUV spectroscopy to capture individual snapshots of electrons transitioning from the valence shell to the conduction band in silicon. The transition takes less than 450 attoseconds, allowing scientists to study complex electronic processes that were previously too fast to be approached experimentally.
A UCLA-Columbia study found that direct conversations with individuals affected by an issue can build lasting support, as seen in a conversation about gay marriage. The study also showed that the effect can spill over to friends and family members, leading to sustained increases in support.
Researchers have made significant breakthroughs in understanding galaxy evolution by modeling the effects of stellar activity on star formation. By running complex supercomputer simulations, they found that feedback from stars plays a crucial role in regulating galaxy growth.
A recent study sequencing the genomes of 45 avian species has provided the most reliable tree of life for birds, shedding light on their rapid emergence from a mass extinction event. The findings reveal that modern birds diverged rapidly and their sex chromosomes have evolved differently than those in humans.
A recent Science study reveals that crocodilians have a slow rate of mutation, evolving about one-quarter the rate of birds. This discovery sheds light on how these species maintained their genetic diversity and survived for hundreds of millions of years.
Researchers at Kent State University will study how human dynamics across social media and social networks can be modeled using a $300,000 grant from the National Science Foundation. The goal is to improve disaster warnings and alerts as well as communicate more effectively with the public on social issues.
A study published in Science has identified a single mutated gene, K13, as the cause of growing resistance to malaria drugs in Southeast Asia. This finding provides a way to detect emerging resistance and potentially eliminate it before spreading globally.
A new family of cancer drugs targeting multiple key proteins could treat incurable skin cancers. The panRAF inhibitors showed effectiveness in patients with melanoma resistant to BRAF inhibitors.
Scientists have identified an atypical photon emission signal in X-rays from space that could be evidence of dark matter. The anomaly's distribution corresponds to expected patterns for dark matter, and further analysis confirms the findings.
Research finds that nocturnal gout attacks are 2.4 times higher at night and 1.3 times higher in the evening compared to daytime hours. Prophylactic measures may be more effective in preventing flares, especially at night.
A Tufts University study reveals large disparities in death rates across race and ethnicity in Massachusetts for HIV/AIDS and hepatitis C. Hotspots of high mortality were found in communities with highest need for targeted public health and clinical responses.
A study by University of Utah researchers found a unique mechanism used by the Ebola virus and other related viruses to replicate. The discovery, which was made possible through computer simulations, may lead to new targets for antiviral drugs within five to 10 years.
A team of researchers has developed a new method, laser shock imprinting, to create large-area patterns of three-dimensional nanoshapes from metal sheets. This technique enables the mass production of innovative materials with engineered surfaces that control light, potentially revolutionizing high-speed electronics, advanced sensors, ...
BioServe Space Technologies will launch state-of-the-art hardware on SpaceX Dragon spacecraft, including petri dishes with infected nematode organisms, to study bacterial virulence in low gravity. The experiment aims to understand how pathogens behave in space and has implications for human health.
Researchers have made significant discoveries about coenzyme Q and its production pathway, shedding light on mitochondrial function and its link to human diseases. Two new studies published in PNAS and Molecular Cell reveal the biochemical functions of key proteins involved in coenzyme Q synthesis.
New studies suggest that MERS-CoV is unlikely to reach epidemic status due to effective infection control measures. The virus exhibits a high mortality rate, but hospital-acquired infections dominate the epidemiology. Prolonged infection control measures are crucial in severely ill patients with MERS-CoV.
The study found tamoxifen reduced breast cancer rates by around 30% and oestrogen receptor positive invasive cancer by 35%. After 20 years, the estimated risk of developing breast cancer was 8% in the tamoxifen group, compared to 12% in the placebo group.
An international team has sequenced and compared full genomes of 48 bird species to resolve the timing and relationships of modern birds. The study suggests that only a few bird lineages survived the mass extinction event, giving rise to the 10,000 Neoaves species that comprise 95% of all bird species.
A study found that current magazines, especially gossipy ones, are more prone to disappearance from waiting rooms. Non-gossipy magazines remained intact, and their loss was often linked to cost savings.
Scientists studied wild grasses in the Fertile Crescent to identify traits suitable for agriculture. They found that wild relatives of current crop plants have bigger seeds and less bushy stems, making them ideal for farming. This research could help shape the future of food production by understanding the past.
A study found that cinacalcet reduced the rate of bone fracture in patients on dialysis by 16-29%, after adjusting for patient characteristics. The drug may provide a protective effect against fractures in these patients, who are at increased risk due to kidney failure.
Researchers at the University of Rochester Medical Center discovered that the Thy1 protein plays a fundamental role in controlling whether primitive cells become fat cells. Restoring Thy1 expression may help prevent or reduce obesity.
A study of bird genomes reveals that birds are less susceptible to viral invasions or purge them more effectively than mammals. The research, published in Science, identified five viral families that have left a footprint in the bird genome during evolution.
Researchers develop fundamental cuts and folds to maintain lattice proportions, enabling versatile applications in nanotechnology, architecture, and aerospace. The technique allows for the creation of complex shapes, including channels and ratcheting interfaces, with potential uses in self-folding materials.
A team of scientists has decoded the avian genome, revealing that bird evolution occurred rapidly 65 million years ago. The study provides new insights into the evolutionary history of birds, including the discovery of ancient viruses and unexpected kinship between waterbirds and landbirds.
Researchers found that left-wing individuals spend more time engaging in vigorous physical activity and walking compared to political centrists. Meanwhile, those who don't reveal their political beliefs are the most physically inactive.
A global collaboration has sequenced and compared full genomes of 48 bird species, revealing the origins of feathers, flight, song, and sex chromosomes. The study resolves key debates on bird family trees and evolutionary timelines.
A 10-week cooking skills program in Australia resulted in sustained changes in participants' food purchasing behaviors, knowledge, and social interactions. Participants reported increased confidence in cooking and eating healthier meals together as a family.
A new statistical model developed by WPI's Patrick Flaherty allows better identification of different cell types found in solid tumors, enabling more targeted treatment options. The GLAD model accurately predicted the fractions of various subtypes in glioblastoma tumors and has potential applications in breast cancer treatment.
A study found that genetic variants in the IL-28B gene affect influenza vaccine responses. Individuals with at least one copy of the minor allele were more likely to achieve seroconversion after vaccination, particularly those on high doses of immune-suppressive drugs. Blocking the IL-28B receptor may boost the antibody response to flu...
A Dartmouth study found that low-income adolescents consume more fruits and vegetables when eating at school, while high-income peers consume fewer during the school months. School food plays a crucial role in improving dietary quality among vulnerable students.
Researchers have found a new species of Osedax bone worms with females containing harems of tiny dwarf males. The largest male is tens of thousands times larger than its relatives and has evolved to consume bones on its own.
Researchers at Virginia Commonwealth University have discovered a novel microRNA-gene interaction that could lead to new therapies for malignant glioma, the most common and deadly form of brain tumor. Increasing miR-184 expression slows glioma cell growth by regulating SND1, a cancer-promoting gene.
A Texas Tech University biologist led a team of over 50 scientists in mapping the genomes of three crocodilians, including a crocodile, alligator, and gharial. The research reveals that crocodilian genomes change very slowly compared to birds, with an estimated 93% identical DNA across their genomes.
Hagupit has weakened to a depression in the South China Sea before making landfall in southern Vietnam. The storm's maximum sustained winds dropped to 30 knots on Dec. 11, with forecasters predicting quick dissipation after landfall.
A large international group of scientists has published the results of a first-ever look at the genome of dozens of common birds, revealing how modern birds evolved after the mass extinction that wiped out dinosaurs. The research also provides insight into how songbirds learn to sing and brain connection with human speech.
Research from St. Jude Children's Research Hospital identifies a high-risk group of young patients who may experience intellectual decline after bone marrow transplantation. The study found that those aged 3 or younger at the time of transplantation with total body irradiation were at higher risk, leading to lower IQ scores and potenti...
A new study published in the Maternal and Child Health Journal found that households with obese mothers and stunted children often rely on high-energy, low-nutrient foods like chocolate and biscuits. In contrast, diets rich in fruits and vegetables are associated with lower rates of double-burden households.
Scientists are exploring how bitter compounds cause airway constriction and searching for potential new treatments using a slime mould model. The study aims to identify cellular mechanisms that could reverse or prevent asthma attacks.
Researchers from Ohio State University reviewed 19 studies on the effectiveness of mindfulness-based programs for weight loss. While some studies showed weight loss among participants who practiced mindfulness, others found no relationship between the two. The review highlights the need for further research to understand how mindfulnes...
Dr. Jane Holland's study identified the main driver of basal breast cancer's aggressiveness and targeted treatments to combat it. Her work aims to test inhibitors in human breast cancer tissue, potentially leading to new and effective treatments.
A study published in Science highlights the importance of nutritional immunity in fighting infectious diseases. The research reveals that humans have developed a defense mechanism to starve bacteria by hiding circulating iron, but pathogens have adapted to steal this resource.
Westgate Medical Practice introduced a novel appointment system where patients can attend at designated times, reducing wait times and increasing patient satisfaction. The practice saw an improvement in work patterns for nursing staff and a significant increase in patients seeing their preferred doctor.
Researchers analyzed Darwin Award winners and found that 88.7% were male, supporting the idea that men are more prone to 'idiotic risk taking behaviour'. The study suggests males may engage in such risky actions as a rite of passage or for social esteem
A research team from TUM discovered that birds use their oval-shaped heads to transform sound waves, allowing them to identify sounds from different elevation angles. This unique ability combines information from hearing and vision to improve orientation and evading predators.
A new study using DNA barcoding confirms that most Ginkgo biloba supplements contain the expected species, while others may be adulterated or contain incorrect materials. The research provides a validated method for supplement manufacturers to ensure quality control and may help consumers avoid toxic or ineffective products.
NTU scientists have identified two major ways malaria parasites become resistant to Artemisinin, a key front-line drug. The breakthrough findings will help doctors design new treatment cocktails and monitor drug resistance more effectively.
A study suggests that early signs of cognitive decline are present in some individuals during midlife and are associated with cumulative exposure to modifiable risk factors. Elevated blood pressure and low physical activity over a 25-year period were found to be predictors of worse cognitive performance, even within the normal range.
A species of small fish uses its diet to hide from predators by emitting an odor that makes it invisible to the noses of predators. The researchers tested cod and found that they stayed away when filefish were fed their home coral. This study provides evidence of chemical camouflage from diet in vertebrates.
A new study finds that higher human exposure to cadmium can lead to significantly shorter telomeres, associated with cardiovascular disease and other diseases of old age. Cadmium exposure has been linked to premature aging of cells, kidney disease, and other health problems.
Researchers created a detailed map of human genome's looping structure, revealing that DNA loops play an essential role in nearly every cell process. The study also identified thousands of hidden genetic switches and rules governing loop formation.
Researchers analyzed over 180 million geocoded tweets to understand how people in 95 cities worldwide reacted to the 2013 Boston Marathon bombing. Citizens expressed emotions based on geography, social connections, and cultural ties to Boston.
Researchers found that adding thymine to normal cells stimulates gene production and causes them to multiply. This could lead to a treatment supplement to boost healthy cell production during chemotherapy, while minimizing side effects.
A research team has found that tooth loss in birds occurred convergently with turtles and multiple mammalian lineages about 116 million years ago. The study used degraded remnants of tooth genes to determine when birds lost their teeth, suggesting a single loss of mineralized teeth in the common ancestor of all modern birds.
A major study has charted the burst of evolution that took place after the mass extinction of dinosaurs, giving rise to nearly all modern bird species. The research found that birdsong evolved independently at least twice, with parrots and songbirds gaining the ability to learn and mimic vocal activity.
The study reveals that modern birds diversified in the wake of the mass extinction that marked the end of the age of dinosaurs. The new analysis helps clarify the evolutionary relationships of major groups of birds, showing which groups share more recent ancestors and which are more distantly related to each other.
High-resolution 3D maps of the human genome reveal thousands of hidden switches that regulate genes, including those associated with cancer and diseases. The study provides a new understanding of genetic regulation and its role in cellular differentiation.
Rates of intracerebral haemorrhage in Australia have declined by an average of 1.6% per year over eight years, according to a large retrospective study. The study found that better recognition and management of blood pressure, as well as improved stroke care, contributed to the decline in fatality rates.
A new study from Albert Einstein College of Medicine found that children with short sleep duration and sleep-related breathing problems have a higher risk of becoming obese by age 15. The research aimed to track the combined effect of these two risk factors in children over time, filling a gap in previous studies. Children with severe ...
Researchers reconstructed a partial genome of the common ancestor of crocodiles, birds, and dinosaurs, showing an exceptionally slow rate of genome evolution in crocodilians. The team found that population sizes declined sharply during the last ice age, with alligator populations experiencing a continuous decline.
A new study suggests that measuring glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) in the blood can predict the presence of intracranial lesions following mild traumatic brain injury. The study found GFAP to be a more reliable biomarker than S100β, which was not as effective in distinguishing between intracranial and extracranial lesions.
Researchers at IRCM have discovered a mechanism that regulates dopamine levels in the brain, which could lead to new treatments for Parkinson's disease. The Rgs6 gene plays a crucial role in preventing excessive dopaminergic signalling and cellular stress.
Researchers at Brunel University London found proteins that disguise nanoparticles, allowing them to target cancer cells without causing inflammation. This discovery has potential for treating inflammatory diseases like Parkinson's and Alzheimer's, and glioblastoma brain tumors.
A new method called statistical binning has been developed to help researchers construct more accurate species trees detailing the lineage of genes and relationships between species. By combining gene data using statistical optimization techniques, scientists can use all available data without having to throw away any.
A new study shows that hospitals adopting robotic surgery between 2001-2004 performed partial nephrectomies more frequently, preserving organs for kidney cancer patients. This increase in partial nephrectomy rates is attributed to greater institutional experience with robotic surgery.
The study suggests that music can have a calming effect on surgeons and theatre staff, improving communication and efficiency. The authors recommend specific songs, such as Stayin' Alive by the Bee Gees, to play in the operating theatre.
A 4-year-old boy experienced a stroke after riding roller coasters, likely caused by a tear in his carotid artery. The incident highlights the risk of carotid artery dissection in children due to sudden movements. Previous reports have mostly focused on adult riders, making this case one of the youngest reported.
A genetic study of 48 bird species reveals most modern birds diversified after dinosaurs became extinct, with some lineages emerging around 100 million years ago and others in a window of less than 10 million years afterwards.
A team of scientists has developed a detailed map of the bird genome, shedding light on their evolution and diversification. The study reveals that birds have lost hundreds of genes compared to humans, leading to unique traits such as lighter skeletons and respiratory systems.
Researchers at North Carolina State University discovered that stacking 2D materials can create semiconductor junctions with efficient charge transfer, even when the crystalline structures don't match. This discovery could make the manufacture of semiconductor devices an order of magnitude less expensive.
Researchers found a link between gut microbiota and Parkinson's disease, with patients having lower levels of Prevotellaceae bacteria and higher levels of Enterobacteriaceae family in their intestines. The study suggests that intestinal dysfunction may be part of the pathology and potentially related to the progression of the disease.
A five-year study will assess the plan's impact on healthcare utilization, health outcomes, and enrollment patterns. U-M researchers will analyze encrypted data files to protect participant privacy while gathering valuable insights.
Southwest Research Institute (SwRI) has developed a portable solar observatory called SSIPP for use on commercial suborbital spacecraft. The observatory aims to enable cost-effective space-based observation similar to ground-based observatories.
A Danish research team has gained a new understanding of the diarrhea-causing bacteria, ETEC, and is exploring its potential for developing an entirely new class of vaccines. The research aims to create a vaccine that can activate the immune system to recognize the agent as foreign and destroy it.
In a paper published in Human Organization, UC Santa Barbara anthropologist Jeffrey Hoelle examines the rise of cattle ranching in the Brazilian state of Acre. He argues that cattle culture emerged as a result of local economic relationships, which developed cultural beliefs based on interdependence with animals.
Researchers found that herpes simplex virus 1 rearranges telomeres to improve viral replication, suggesting a molecular mechanism for viral efficiency. The study also highlights the role of telomere proteins in protecting against viral infection.
Scientists at King's College London have identified the TRPA1 gene as a crucial player in the body's response to cold, triggering a vascular response that can help prevent frostbite and hypothermia. The study suggests that targeting this gene could lead to new treatments for conditions associated with cold exposure.
Researchers found that GLP-1, a diabetes medication, reduces drinking behavior and increases water intake in rats. This study raises awareness for diabetics who are already at risk for dehydration.
Researchers found associations between extraversion and pro-inflammatory genes, as well as conscientiousness and reduced pro-inflammatory gene expression. These findings support the idea that personality traits influence health and longevity.
A recent study by the University of Kent found that chickens and turkeys have undergone fewer gross genomic changes compared to their ancient avian ancestor, a feathered dinosaur. The research reveals that birds arrived at their incredible biodiversity through a complex process involving tiny microchromosomes.
A recent study sequencing the complete genomes of 45 avian species reveals that avian genomes have slower rates of evolutionary change compared to mammals. This finding suggests a larger-scale pattern of evolutionary stasis in avian genomes, with fewer opportunities for gene duplication and functional innovation.
A new study reveals that US workers are prioritizing paid work time over sleep, with short sleepers working longer hours and traveling more. Flexible work start times could be a solution to address this issue and promote better sleep habits.
A new study suggests that smart agricultural practices and trade networks enabled the Romans to thrive despite a water-limited environment. However, this stable food supply promoted population growth and urbanization, pushing the Empire closer to its food resources limits.
Research from the University of British Columbia's Sauder School of Business shows that CEO optimism leads to positive stock price reactions. The study analyzed transcripts of earnings calls and found that managers' natural communication style, particularly their use of positive language, influences market activity.
A study of Ontario adults found that nearly 17% reported a history of traumatic brain injury (TBI), with those who had TBI more likely to engage in harmful behaviors such as opioid use and smoking. The study suggests a link between TBI and substance abuse, highlighting the need for preventive action against TBI.
Virginia Tech's Giti Khodaparast has received a three-year, $1.2 million grant from the US Air Force to study electro-optic and magneto-electric materials, which could lead to faster optical computing devices. The research aims to develop multifunctional devices with giant optical nonlinear conversion capabilities.