A study published in Evolution and Human Behavior found that people prefer to follow the pack, with higher IQs being more strategic in their choices. The research suggests that conformity is essential for cultural evolution, as it allows us to copy successful behaviors and avoid mistakes.
A global study found that chronic hepatitis B virus infection affects approximately 248 million people worldwide, with a disproportionately high burden in some countries. The prevalence of the disease varies significantly between countries, with up to 20% of the population infected in certain regions.
Researchers at FAU will use unmanned surface vehicles (USVs) to conduct on-water bridge inspections, reducing costs and improving efficiency. The USV-based system will enable automated inspection of bridge pilings and supports, overcoming challenges such as fast-flowing tidal currents and difficult underwater conditions.
Researchers visualize pyrene linked to a single-walled carbon nanotube using high-resolution transmission electron microscopy. This breakthrough methodology could provide indispensable information on molecular interactions, enhancing the efficiency and lifespan of organic devices.
A study published in JAMA Neurology found insulin resistance associated with reduced global and regional brain glucose metabolism in late middle-age adults at risk for Alzheimer's disease. Lower glucose metabolism was linked to poorer performance in immediate memory tasks.
USF researchers found that storm surge, high rainfall, and rising sea levels contribute to devastating 'compound flooding' in coastal cities. Their analysis identified key mechanisms, including elevated water levels and moderate storm surges, which exacerbate flooding impacts.
Scientists have developed a new type of photonic channel that allows them to control the direction of photon emission, enabling the creation of complex quantum circuits. This breakthrough discovery has significant implications for building large-scale quantum computers and could lead to major advancements in chemistry and materials tec...
The protein RGS2 plays a vital role in preserving the fertilizability of the ovulated egg by suppressing premature calcium release. In mouse studies, RGS2 delays an egg's development to allow time for sperm to arrive and merge with the egg in a healthy fertilization process.
Researchers at the Walter and Eliza Hall Institute have developed a new class of antimalarial drugs by targeting the critical malaria 'conductor' protein plasmepsin V. The discovery could effectively kill two species of malaria parasites, including the deadliest form Plasmodium falciparum, which causes most malaria-related deaths.
Two studies released at the Society of NeuroInterventional Surgery 12th Annual Meeting found that newer devices are reducing treatment times, improving outcomes, and decreasing mortality rates in stroke patients. The studies also showed that older patients can benefit from interventional treatment with age being an exclusion criterion.
A new study reveals that transfer times for stroke patients are significantly longer than expected driving times, with average differences ranging from 46 to 133 minutes. This highlights the need for improvements in emergency transport systems to ensure timely diagnosis and treatment.
Researchers discovered that a protein imbalance, specifically between Plcγ1 and Grb2, can lead to cell proliferation and cancer formation. High levels of Grb2 relative to Plcγ1 are associated with a favorable prognosis in ovarian cancer patients.
Researchers found that during high suspense moments, the brain narrows visual attention to focus on the story, while less suspenseful moments broaden attention to surroundings. The study discovered an ebb and flow of brain activity in the calcarine sulcus, increasing processing of critical information.
Researchers discuss emerging antischistosomal drug candidates and address clinical resistance concerns. Praziquantel, the current 'wonder drug,' is being reevaluated due to its drawbacks and potential for clinical resistance.
Research found that depression and personality disorders were the most common diagnoses among Belgian psychiatric patients requesting euthanasia. The study, published in BMJ Open, highlights the need for guidelines on 'unbearable suffering' and procedures for mentally ill patients seeking help to die.
A $4.8 million NIH study will provide essential information to clinicians on the proper intravenous dosing of polymyxin B in critically ill patients. The study aims to minimize unnecessary toxic side effects and preserve the drug's efficacy against superbug-resistant Gram-negative bacteria.
A new species of insect has been discovered in South East Queensland, exhibiting sexual dichronism and intersexual phoresy. The newly recognized species, Cystococcus campanidorsalis, was identified by a University of Queensland graduate through physical characteristics and DNA sequence data.
Researchers at Scripps Research Institute will explore therapeutic potential of proteins regulating human health and associated diseases like Parkinson's and arthritis.
Researchers develop new approach to treating Rett syndrome by extending lifespan and improving behavioral symptoms in mouse models. The treatment targets PTP1B, an enzyme with abnormal levels in the disorder, restoring BDNF signaling and promoting neural growth.
A new study found that mechanical thrombectomy in stroke treatment reduced hospital stays to 14 days from 90 days and saved the UK healthcare system £3.2 million. The procedure also led to over 9 in 10 patients being discharged home.
A study of ancient and modern genomes clarifies the history of Native American migration to the Americas, tracing their ancestry back to a single late Pleistocene event. Genetic analysis reveals two distinct populations: Athabascans and northern Amerindians, diverging from shared ancestors at around 23,000 years ago.
A study funded by NIH found that many new mothers do not receive advice from physicians on infant care recommendations, including sleep position and breastfeeding. The survey showed that African American women and first-time mothers were more likely to receive advice than white women and mothers of two or more children.
Researchers found that low-dose lithium reduced involuntary motor movements in Parkinson's disease mice, boosting dopamine synthesis via inhibition of calpain-1. This study adds to evidence that low-doses of the psychotropic drug could benefit patients suffering from the incurable condition.
The Brain & Behavior Research Foundation has named six young scientists as winners of the Klerman-Freedman Prizes, recognizing their outstanding work in neurobiological and psychosocial research. The prizes were awarded to Alan Anticevic for his study on cognitive function in schizophrenia and Michael M. Halassa for his work on sensory...
A recent study has discovered a blood marker that can help identify women at risk for postpartum depression, a debilitating disorder affecting nearly 20% of new mothers. The oxytocin receptor marker is associated with increased risk and may enable early identification and intervention.
New research explores Viking Age causes by focusing on spoils beyond portable wealth, highlighting exotic lure and tangible symbols of power. Individuals could build reputations through raiding, gaining social capital and intangible benefits.
Biologists at Australian National University discovered a molecule called RaxX that triggers the rice plant's immune response, allowing for containment strategies against bacterial leaf blight. The research may also provide insights into human health, as the chemistry is similar to HIV entering human cells.
Researchers have developed a new therapy that slows the spread of deadly brain tumor cells by disrupting their communication pathway. The treatment improved patient survival by 50% in a mouse model and has potential as an adjunct to traditional chemotherapy and radiation treatments.
Researchers from ASU's School of Sustainability and surrounding institutions are developing holistic methods to assess urban infrastructure resilience. The team aims to incorporate natural systems into designs, creating 'safe-to-fail' scenarios that balance social, ecological, and technical needs.
Researchers have narrowed the date of an anomalous cooling episode known as the Younger Dryas, which occurred around 12,800 years ago, to a 100-year range. The study suggests that a cosmic impact triggered this event.
Researchers successfully deliver an RNA encoding alpha-1-antitrypsin (AAT) into cells, enabling them to produce highly functional AAT. This approach offers a safe and cost-effective solution for treating single gene disorders like AAT deficiency.
A new study examines predator-prey interactions between tiger sharks and sea turtles using satellite tagging data. The research found that while sharks exhibit modified surfacing behavior to enhance predation opportunity, turtles do not alter their behaviors to reduce shark attacks when home ranges overlap.
Research finds that kindergartners, but not preschoolers, perceive hard work as increasing the value of unappealing prizes. This suggests that children's cognitive strategies for handling disappointing rewards differ at different ages.
A new UC Berkeley study finds that brain rhythms synchronize within the frontal lobe to connect with other brain regions during cognitively challenging tasks. This synchronization enables quick communication between neurons, which is critical in various disorders such as Parkinson's disease and autism.
Researchers found that breast cancer survivors who used liquid lidocaine on the vulvar vestibule experienced reduced pain and improved sexual function. The study's results suggest that this non-invasive treatment could alleviate physical and emotional pain associated with sex, making it more enjoyable for both individuals.
Researchers used fruit flies to discover that groups of genes working together, rather than single genes, influence gut immunocompetence. They found that variations in these gene clusters can make some flies highly susceptible or resistant to infections, with implications for chronic gastrointestinal diseases.
A new study by the University of Vermont found that consumers do not perceive GMO labels as warning signs, contradicting proponents of a controversial labeling law. The study revealed that 60% of respondents were opposed to GMO technology in food production and 89% desired labeling, despite the label having no direct impact on opposition.
A new study analyzing European temperate forests reveals that biodiversity in the herb layer has not changed overall, but varies significantly across regions. Climate change and local factors like nitrogen availability and game populations play a more significant role than expected.
Researchers will evaluate existing Cathepsin S inhibitor as new potential Chagas disease therapeutic, addressing a neglected tropical disease with no FDA-approved therapies. The grant aims to confirm the antiparasitic activity and test safety and effectiveness in humans.
A team of chemists at UC Riverside has found a way to use the infrared region of the sun's spectrum to generate more power in solar cells. By combining inorganic semiconductor nanocrystals with organic molecules, they have created a hybrid material that can 'upconvert' photons, effectively reshaping the solar spectrum to boost efficien...
A Johns Hopkins-led study of 1,200 people with implanted defibrillators shows that within a few years, one-quarter experienced substantial improvements in heart function, reducing the risk of arrhythmia and device shocks. Improved heart function was primarily attributed to concurrent use of heart failure medications and pacemakers.
A modified version of a protein that suppresses female reproductive organ development has been shown to inhibit the growth of chemotherapy-resistant ovarian tumors in animal models. Researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital have developed a gene therapy approach using a viral vector to deliver this protein, which resulted in signif...
A systematic evidence review published in Annals of Internal Medicine finds that the way a placebo is delivered affects how patients respond to therapy. The study suggests that some placebos have stronger effects than others, potentially impacting the effectiveness of medical treatments.
Researchers at Helmholtz Munich have discovered that increased protein turnover by the 26S proteasome is responsible for the activation of myofibroblasts, leading to pulmonary fibrosis. Inhibiting the 26S proteasome can prevent differentiation of primary human lung fibroblasts into myofibroblasts.
Two studies published in Gastroenterology found that weight loss through lifestyle modification or bariatric surgery significantly reduces NASH features. Lifestyle modifications resulted in a 10% weight reduction needed to reverse scarring, while bariatric surgery eliminated NASH in 85% of patients after one year.
A new type of electro-optic modulator is smaller, faster, and cheaper than traditional models, using plasmon-polaritons to enhance its performance. The device consumes much less energy than current commercial devices, making it a crucial step towards reducing the environmental impact of data transmission.
A Yale study identified NF1 as a key gene in melanoma development and progression. The research revealed that 45% of melanomas without known BRAF or NRAS mutations display loss of NF1 function, leading to cancer-causing pathways.
Researchers confirm the neural efficiency hypothesis, which suggests that intelligent brains require less cortical activation to solve tasks. The study found that highly intelligent individuals required fewer resources to complete moderately difficult tasks, but not very easy or very difficult ones.
Researchers have made significant progress in editing human T cells using CRISPR/Cas9, opening doors to potential therapies for autoimmune diseases, AIDS, and cancer. By disabling key proteins such as CXCR4 and PD-1, scientists hope to develop new treatments for various health problems.
DeepBind uses deep learning to analyze protein-DNA/RNA binding and detect mutations that can disrupt cellular processes. The tool provides new information on disruptions in mutations tied to cancers, haemophilia, and familial hypercholesterolemia.
Researchers found that children adapt their behavior to different goals, showcasing flexible social learning skills. The study suggests that humans are well-equipped to acquire and adapt cultural norms from previous generations.
Researchers from GEOMAR Helmholtz Centre for Ocean Research Kiel found that the Tristan-Gough hotspot changed composition about 70 million years ago, forming parallel but geochemically distinct volcanoes. The team suggests a huge lens of material in the lower mantle, called LLSVP, as a possible explanation.
A new study found that young cancer patients often have limited knowledge about fertility preservation options, which can impact their treatment plans. Males are more likely to discuss fertility preservation with clinicians than females, but both sexes face barriers such as lack of insurance coverage and education.
Using powerful computer simulations, researchers identified a material made of hafnium, nitrogen, and carbon with a melting point of over 4,400 kelvins, two-thirds the temperature at the surface of the sun. The next step is to synthesize the material and corroborate the findings in the lab.
The Journal of Dairy Science has recognized four award-winning papers for their high citation impact. These papers, published between 2012 and 2015, have significantly impacted research and the dairy industry.
A simple nasal balloon procedure has been shown to be effective in reducing the impact of hearing loss in children with otitis media with effusion. The procedure involves autoinflation three times a day for 1 to 3 months, and has been found to improve middle-ear pressure and reduce symptoms in children aged 4 to 11 years.
Scientists have uncovered a port of entry for malaria parasites in the liver, highlighting a potential new drug target. The discovery could help prevent the spread of disease and reduce malaria-related deaths worldwide.
The Sochi Winter Olympics have left a legacy of oversized infrastructure and inflated prices, paid for almost exclusively by the public. The total cost of the Games is $55bn, with sports-related costs alone amounting to $16bn, more than twice the official figure.
Two new studies found that Mobile Stroke Treatment Units (MSTUs) significantly reduce time to diagnose and treat stroke patients, greatly improving survival rates and recovery. MSTUs equipped with diagnostic tools and telemedicine capabilities facilitate real-time communication with hospital-based specialists.
Researchers have identified four new highly endangered species of West African torrent-frogs, revealing a previously unknown level of molecular variation. The discovery highlights the urgent need for conservation efforts in the Upper Guinean biodiversity hotspot, where habitat loss threatens the survival of these unique species.