The MAVEN mission has made groundbreaking discoveries about the loss of Mars' atmosphere to space over time. The spacecraft has detected a stream of solar-wind particles that penetrate deep into the planet's upper atmosphere and ionosphere, revealing a new process by which atmospheric loss occurs.
The Stanford team created a high-rise chip with multiple layers of logic and memory, potentially leading to computing performance that is much greater than anything available today. The architecture leverages three breakthroughs: new transistor technology, multi-story computer memory, and innovative fabrication techniques.
Researchers found glial cells transmit information to neurons through a specific protein fragment, influencing neural cross-talk. Disruption of this flow affects learning and sensory input processing, leading to behavioral changes.
A study found that mice lacking CXCR3 had reduced beta-amyloid plaque formation and attenuated behavioral deficits in a mouse model of Alzheimer's disease. The research suggests that activating the CXCR3 receptor could be an effective approach to treating AD.
The University of Missouri (MU) School of Social Work, in partnership with the University of Missouri-St. Louis (UMSL), has received a $1 million grant to expand training to mental and behavioral health professionals in Missouri. The project aims to improve access to services among high-need young adults aged 16-25.
Researchers developed a fast and accurate method for screening cancer drugs using gold nanoparticles, allowing for rapid profiling of various anti-cancer drugs and their mechanisms. This new sensor system uses three-channel detection to identify specific cell death mechanisms, enabling the determination of drug mechanisms in minutes.
Experts simulated 10,000 parties to determine optimal cracker distribution for small gatherings. A paired system with each pair pulling a single cracker yields the fewest winners and losers.
A team of mathematicians has proved the Umbral Moonshine Conjecture, offering a finite calculation for this complex pattern. The conjecture has potential applications in various areas of math and physics.
Researchers developed a sensitive test to detect antidepressants' toxic effects on mice, revealing Paxil's negative impact on reproductive health. The 'survival-of-the-fittest' test simulates wild conditions to expose hidden dangers in pharmaceuticals.
Researchers analyzed Campbell's monkey alarm calls at two sites, revealing greater complexity than previously thought. The study found distinctions between roots (e.g., 'hok' for serious aerial threats) and suffixes (-oo), allowing monkeys to describe both threat nature and degree of danger.
Recent results from the Deep Carbon Observatory researchers are filling in the global carbon puzzle with findings that extend our understanding of the origins and limits of life on Earth. The report will reveal new information on diffuse degassing, including how emissions seeping out of soils vary daily and seasonally.
Chloride levels in urban streams have nearly doubled in two decades, exceeding toxic levels and affecting a significant number of species; winter chloride concentrations increase over the study period
Researchers at SISSA found that faces displaying emotionally significant expressions can modify motor action trajectories, even when unrelated to the action. The study tested reaching movements and found that emotionally charged faces were more distracting than neutral ones.
Scientists simulate the future distribution of 'supraglacial' lakes on Greenland's ice sheet, predicting they will migrate farther inland over the next half century. This could alter the ice sheet flow in dramatic ways, leading to increased melting and potential sea-level rise.
Researchers have successfully developed an oral vaccine delivery system using Streptococcus mitis to induce mucosal immune responses in the mouth and beyond. This innovative approach has potential to protect against diseases such as tuberculosis, AIDS, and intestinal infections, making it a promising tool for global health threats.
A new study suggests that biotechnology and traditional agriculture can be compatible approaches toward sustainable agriculture. Combining computer modeling and field research, the international team found that diverse patchwork of crops in northern China slowed adaptation to genetically engineered cotton by a wide-ranging insect pest.
A study by Queen Mary University of London and The University of Nottingham reveals that cows use distinct, individualized 'calls' to communicate with their calves, which change in frequency and pitch when separated. Researchers identified two maternal calls, one for close proximity and a louder call for separation.
Researchers at Rockefeller University have successfully used electromagnetic waves to remotely control insulin production in diabetic mice, opening up new possibilities for treating diseases. The system, dubbed radiogenetics, uses a natural iron storage particle and heat-activated ion channel to trigger gene expression in cells.
Nonfatal indoor tanning-related injuries treated in US hospitals averaged 3,234 annually between 2003-2012. Most common types were skin burns, syncope, and eye injuries.
A study of Swedish teenagers found that three genetic variants interacted with environmental factors to increase the risk of delinquency, while a positive parent-child relationship decreased the risk. The research suggests that genes affect brain function and behavior by altering sensitivity to negative or positive environments.
Cell biologists at the University of Toronto have identified a region of the genome that regulates the activity of the critical stem cell gene Sox2, potentially advancing regenerative medicine. The discovery reveals how embryonic stem cells are maintained in their pluripotent state.
Researchers at Walter and Eliza Hall Institute have developed a potential cure for chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection. The new treatment, birinapant, triggers the breakdown of proteins that prevent infected cells from self-destructing, allowing infected cells to die.
Leading conservation scientists argue that nuclear energy should be part of the energy mix to mitigate climate change. The researchers evaluated different energy scenarios and found that nuclear power performs well compared to renewables, considering factors like safety, cost, scalability, land transformation, and emissions.
Researchers found that infant cells must undergo a developmental process involving specific genes before they can participate in group interactions. The study identified the Lsd1 gene as crucial for ovarian follicle progenitor cells to mature at their normal rate.
A team of researchers from the University of Southern Denmark has successfully reprogrammed white adipose tissue cells to become 'brite' (brown-in-white) fat cells, increasing energy consumption and potentially treating obesity. The study identified KLF11 as a key gene required for this process, paving the way for future treatments.
Tropical Cyclone Bakung is moving west-southwest over the Southern Indian Ocean, with maximum sustained winds near 40 knots (46 mph). NASA's Aqua satellite captured an image of the storm on December 12, showing deeper convection around its low-level center.
A new trout species, Salmo kottelati, has been described from the Alakır Stream in Antalya, Turkey. The species is distinguished by its smaller parr marks, larger mouth gape, and maxilla, which set it apart from other genera of salmonids.
A team from Imperial College London and University of Barcelona used astronomical surveys to measure the baryon acoustic oscillation scale, a standard distance central to the universe's expansion. The study suggests current methods for measuring distance are more complicated than needed, offering a data-driven approach to cosmology.
Researchers aim to quantify global warming's influence on extreme climate and weather events, focusing on unprecedented events. Advanced statistical techniques and long-term climate observations are used to analyze the relationship between human influence and extreme event probabilities.
Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine have developed a new method to suppress inflammation in kidney dialysis patients. By administering a small molecule version of compstatin, they were able to completely suppress the complement immune response and reduce inflammatory biomarkers.
A new study reveals that oil-dwelling bacteria have exchanged genes for eons, challenging the 'burial and isolation' scenario. The research found extensive gene flow across environments, suggesting the bacteria have long migrated to and colonized oil reservoirs.
New research from Wake Forest University confirms the conversion of nitrite to nitric oxide by deoxygenated hemoglobin reduces platelet activation, affecting blood flow and clotting. The findings have implications for treating sickle cell disease and stroke.
A Stanford scientist is developing a flexible model to manage stormwater runoff in big cities, with the goal of determining its ecosystem and financial benefits. The research aims to study the value of stormwater retention services for large cities in developing countries and compare their benefits to other services.
Researchers have identified Bridgmanite, a high-density magnesium iron silicate mineral, as the most abundant mineral in Earth. The discovery was made possible by non-destructive micro-focused X-rays and novel fast-readout area-detector techniques, which allowed for the characterization of natural Bridgmanite for the first time.
Researchers have developed a new theory that aims to bring flexibility to computer communication by allowing devices to tolerate some degree of imprecision. By gauging the minimum amount of information needed to convey a point, designed communication schemes can achieve reliable transmission, even in uncertain environments.
A recent study published in JNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute found no association between migraine and breast cancer. The researchers analyzed data from 115,378 women and concluded that migraine was not associated with breast cancer risk or differences in endogenous sex hormone levels.
A patient who suffered a traumatic brain injury unexpectedly recovered full consciousness after receiving midazolam, a mild depressant drug. The administration of this medication resulted in the first reported case of an 'awakening' from a minimally-conscious state using this therapy.
A new theory suggests that eukaryotic cells arose from external bacterial infections, where blebs trapped mitochondria-like bacteria, leading to the formation of complex cell structures. This alternative view challenges the current theory and offers a radical rethinking of how complex life came to be.
A study analyzing violent behaviors towards pregnant women found that 22.7% endure some form of violence, including emotional and physical abuse. The prevalence is higher in Spain than nearby countries, highlighting the need for routine detection and action protocols in pregnancy management.
Research by UPV/EHU and Basque Institute of Forensic Medicine finds cocaine use linked to higher risk of sudden cardiovascular death. The study, published in Addiction journal, analyzed 437 cases of sudden death and found a significant association between recent cocaine consumption and increased risk of heart attack.
The study reveals the presence of a weak iridescence in Tinamou eggs, creating superficial colors and color changes depending on angle and light. The researchers' investigation uncovers an ultra-smooth coating as the key to the eggshell's glossy appearance.
Researchers at UCSF discovered that immune cells in brain respond to fat in diet by causing mice to consume more food. The study found that a population explosion of microglia, a type of immune cell, in the hypothalamus region drives increased food intake.
A powerful storm system, known as the Pineapple Express, brought intense precipitation to the western US, causing flash flooding, landslides, and damage. The satellite imagery captured by NOAA's GOES-West satellite showed a stream of clouds associated with the moisture from Hawaii, leading to violent rain storms in California.
The inaugural survey of American attitudes about the environment reveals a complex picture of public opinion. While most Americans believe the US should take a leading role in combating global warming, they tend to prioritize other environmental concerns. The poll also found that Americans are adopting environmentally friendly lifestyl...
A new study found that protein Maf1 controls fat levels in C. elegans worms, suggesting a similar function in humans. Increasing or decreasing Maf1 levels resulted in significant changes in stored lipids.
A lack of safe water, sanitation, and hygiene in birth settings is killing mothers and newborns in the developing world, a new publication reports. The World Health Organization and other organizations are calling on governments to take action to save lives and enable skilled health workers to do their jobs.
The EORTC10085/TBCRC/BIG/NABCG International Male Breast Cancer Program found significant improvements in survival for men with breast cancer, but not as high as for women. The study revealed distinct biological characteristics of male breast cancer, including lower rates of hormonal therapy and breast-conserving surgery.
The National Expert Panel recommends annual vision health screening between age 36 months and before 72 months, with specific tests and training guidelines. The screenings aim to detect refractive errors, amblyopia, and strabismus, ensuring prompt diagnosis and referral to eye care professionals.
Researchers recreated isotopes formed when stars explode, shedding light on heavy element creation essential for life. This study helps map the pathway for creating life-supporting elements in the universe.
Lumina Decision Systems' Analytica software helped stakeholders reach near consensus on a 'rigs to reefs' policy option, reducing costs and preserving marine ecosystems. The tool was successful in distilling rhetoric to meaningful discussion of tradeoffs and values.
Tropical Cyclone Bakung is moving west-southwest over the Southern Indian Ocean, with maximum sustained winds near 40 knots (46 mph). The cyclone is expected to slowly intensify over the next couple of days, nearing hurricane-force by Dec. 16.
Scientists discovered that bacterial biofilms are associated with colon cancer, particularly in the ascending colon. A novel imaging technique revealed diverse microbial communities in these biofilms, suggesting a possible link between bacteria and tumor development.
Computer analysis of genetic data and supercomputing capabilities have enabled researchers to recreate the bird tree of life, revealing a burst of evolutionary growth after 15 million years. The study also uncovered new findings on birdsongs, feathers, biodiversity, and bird evolution.
Forest carbon projects offer benefits beyond carbon storage, including cooling effects and biophysical feedbacks. Deciduous broadleaf trees provide stronger cooling benefits than evergreen needleleaf trees in temperate ecosystems.
A study published in Diabetes Care found that hypoglycaemia significantly increases the risk of cardiovascular events and mortality in insulin-treated patients with diabetes. The research, led by University of Leicester, showed a ~60% higher risk of cardiovascular events following hypoglycaemia.
Scientists sequenced the genomes of 48 bird species to reveal a new family tree for birds and understand their rapid evolution after the mass extinction. The study resolves fundamental questions about bird diversity and adaptations.
A Pitt study published in the American Journal of Political Science found that women are more 'election averse' than men, volunteering to lead groups but less likely to compete in elections. Women's lower willingness to run for office is attributed to factors such as election costs and the potential for negative campaigns.
According to Robert Jackson, minimizing water and air impacts of fracking requires best practices, with surface spills, wastewater disposal, and drinking-water contamination posing primary threats. Natural gas power plants emit less CO2 than coal-fired plants but methane leakage is a significant problem in the US natural gas industry.
A three-year study found that injecting Siberian slippery jack spores into the soil around whitebark pine seedlings increased their survival rate. The native fungus helps trees take in more nutrients and water from the soil, and produces sugars to feed the fungi.
TGen researchers developed a new test that leverages the unique genetic difference between men and women to track down neurological disorders in young girls. By analyzing DNA sequences, they were able to identify a previously unrecognized disorder in a pre-teen girl and provide more accurate diagnosis for families.