A new species of lizard, Gueragama sulamericana, has been found in Southern Brazil, pushing back the known origin of acrodontan lizards to 80 million years ago. This discovery sheds light on the migration patterns of ancient species and challenges existing hypotheses on lizard evolution.
The James Webb Space Telescope's flight backplane has arrived at NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center, marking a significant step towards the telescope's 2018 launch. The backplane will hold the telescope's 18 hexagonal mirrors and instruments steady while observing deep space.
Researchers at the University of Birmingham found that drinking 500ml of water 30 minutes before main meals led to significant weight loss in obese adults. Participants who preloaded with water lost an average of 1.3kg over 12 weeks, compared to 0.8kg in those who did not.
A new study by Rice University and Australian National University found that employees who build nonredundant ties in their social networks are more creative. These ties connect to indirect networks beyond an individual's direct network, offering the greatest efficiency for gathering novel information.
A study of over 55,000 CABG patients found diabetics had more postoperative complications and decreased long-term survival. The proportion of diabetic patients undergoing CABG increased 5-fold between 1970-2010, driven by higher costs and clinical risks.
Computer models of developing cancers show that small cell movements can quickly alter tumor composition. The models suggest treatments targeting these movements could slow disease progress by preventing certain cells from flourishing.
A team of researchers found a massive slab of water ice on Mars, measuring 40 meters thick and covering an area equivalent to California and Texas combined. Meanwhile, scientists have long struggled to study the Earth's remote mantle using seismic wave analysis, but new research offers new insights into this complex process.
Daratumumab, a monoclonal antibody targeting CD38, showed significant promise against difficult-to-treat disease in patients with advanced multiple myeloma, achieving durable responses in 36% of patients, including complete remissions and very good partial responses.
Researchers tested a new liver transplantation procedure using multi-layered sheets of hepatocytes and fibroblasts, which improved liver function in test animals for at least two months. The method showed higher albumin expression levels and better survival rates compared to traditional methods.
The researchers have developed a dual catalyst system that directly installs alkyl groups onto heteroarenes using simple and abundant alcohols, offering a milder alternative to existing strategies. The new reaction has successfully used alcohols as reagents in the alkylation reaction for the first time.
Research reveals almost 100,000 tiny microbeads can be released with every application of certain facial scrubs, contaminating oceans. The study estimates up to 80 tonnes of unnecessary microplastic waste could enter the sea each year from UK cosmetic use.
Penn State researchers are developing new, ultra-high efficiency photovoltaic cells using a novel tracking system to concentrate sunlight 400 times over. The goal is to create standard rooftop solar panels with competitive manufacturing costs and double the efficiency of existing solar panels in sunny regions.
Scientists at the University of California, San Diego have developed a new method to build microscopic robots with complex shapes and functionalities. The researchers created microfish-shaped microrobots that can swim efficiently in liquids, are chemically powered by hydrogen peroxide, and magnetically controlled.
The Global Precipitation Measurement mission saw intense rainfall near hurricane Loke's center, with measurements showing over 160 mm/h. The storm's top heights reached above 15.3 km, and it is forecast to accelerate toward the northwest before undergoing transition to an extra-tropical low.
Research finds that only one in five gay and bisexual teen boys have been tested for HIV due to fears of recognition and lack of knowledge on where to get tested. Testing in schools is proposed as a solution to normalize the process, making it easier for young men to receive lifesaving medical care.
Research reveals HIV testing trends among adults aged 50-64 are not sustaining gains after CDC's 2006 recommendation. Testing rates remain low at around 3.7% despite risk behaviors remaining constant, underscoring the importance of patient advocacy for older adults
A new study published in Neurology found that people who develop dementia experience a decline in awareness of their memory problems two to three years before the disease onset. The study also identified several dementia-related brain changes associated with this decline.
Researchers have discovered how a common gene mutation causes long strands of RNA to block pathways that move proteins into a cell's nucleus, leading to molecular traffic jams. Molecular therapy has been shown to reopen blocked pathways in human and fly cells, providing hope for treatments for ALS and dementia.
Researchers in Spain are developing hypoallergenic parks to combat seasonal allergies, which affect millions worldwide. The study found that common trees in green spaces can cause unhealthy air quality.
A team of Penn State researchers found that compounds in purple potatoes can suppress the growth of colon cancer tumors by targeting stem cells. The study suggests that eating a medium-sized purple potato per day may provide cancer prevention benefits.
Tropical Storm Erika is expected to produce 2-4 inches of rain and slow strengthening over the next 48 hours. The storm's center will move near or over parts of the Leeward Islands, Virgin Islands, and Puerto Rico from August 26-28.
Researchers explore Earth's most extreme lifeforms to predict what life could be like elsewhere in the universe. They suggest water-hydrogen peroxide mixtures for Mars-like environments and liquid hydrocarbons for Titan-like planets, with organisms adapting to frigid temperatures and slow metabolisms.
A system developed at Oak Ridge National Laboratory can identify and characterize solid or liquid samples in seconds, providing a valuable tool for material science, forensics, pharmaceuticals, biology, and chemistry. The device is self-cleaning, requires no sample preparation, and is cost-effective.
A new University of Pittsburgh analysis found that obese women are more likely to experience stillbirths due to placental diseases and hypertension. The study suggests that monitoring these complications and promoting weight loss before pregnancy can reduce the risk of stillbirth.
A team of researchers has found that variations in the morphology of auditory axons, particularly the length of internodes and diameter, impact the speed and precision of signal transmission. This discovery challenges long-held assumptions about axon structure and function.
LSU researchers analyzed the impact of CDBG-DR funds on housing, infrastructure, and economic development recovery since Katrina and Rita. The study found that investments led to increased solvency and population growth in parishes with higher disbursements, while also improving fiscal health and reducing debt-to-asset ratios.
Scientists at Australian National University discovered three previously undiscovered fungi causing the disease, which affects Southern Queensland and South Australia's wheat crops. The finding provides growers with confidence in managing the disease, crucial for a $6 billion industry.
Researchers have developed a 3D tissue scaffold for plants, enabling the observation of individual plant cells in a natural environment. The study reveals complex cell behavior, including cells clinging to and spiraling around their supports like vines.
A study from the University of Houston found that playing an additional year of adaptive sport is associated with a 4% increase in employment likelihood every year for 10 years. This can lead to an estimated $40 million addition to the economy through household income if 2% of the working-age wheelchair population participates.
Research found that persistent genetic mutations in at least 5% of bone marrow cells are associated with increased risk of relapse and reduced overall survival for leukemia patients. The study provides a foundation for genomic methods to risk stratify patients with acute myeloid leukemia.
A new study at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis found that nearly all parents who use e-cigarettes are not aware of the risks to their children, including lethal ingestion and skin exposure. The researchers emphasize the need for pediatricians to ask about nicotine use and discuss safe storage practices.
A study by George Washington University researchers has identified a unique microbiome pattern in the throat of individuals with schizophrenia. The findings suggest that certain oral bacteria may be associated with the disease, offering new possibilities for diagnosis and treatment.
Hurricane Loke is moving north in the Central Pacific, producing rough surf and large swells that will affect reefs and shorelines. The storm is expected to weaken to a tropical storm by Wednesday, August 26, as it moves towards the northwest.
University of Houston researchers identify liver X receptors as a promising target for developing new pancreatic cancer treatments. The study, led by Chin-Yo Lin, shows that targeting these receptors can slow the growth of tumors and is expected to lead to the development of new drugs.
Scientists at Australian National University have developed a world-first radio-tracking drone to locate radio-tagged wildlife. The system has successfully detected tiny radio transmitters and has been tested by tracking bettongs at the Mulligan's Flat woodland sanctuary.
UT Arlington aims to increase underprivileged and minority students pursuing graduate degrees, particularly in healthcare fields. The university will host student researchers from a consortium of 11 institutions, providing mentorship and research opportunities.
Researchers have created a way to detect ortho-para conversion in water, allowing for the study of spin isomers at the single-molecule level. By confining single water molecules in carbon cages, they can observe the transformation without hindrance.
A recent study found that incense smoke contains mutagenic properties, causing genetic mutations and potential cancers. Incense was compared to cigarette smoke in a comparison of indoor use, revealing surprising results.
Researchers found that patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) who retained genetic mutations after chemotherapy were more likely to relapse and die. This approach to genetic profiling could help predict prognosis and determine treatment response, potentially improving outcomes for AML patients.
A study by German Cancer Research Center discovered that citric acid from lemon juice can alter the morphology of norovirus particles, reducing their infectivity. The researchers found that citrate binds to specific proteins on the virus, preventing it from attaching to host cells.
Cardiovascular disease is a leading cause of death in Europe, with four million deaths annually. Inequalities between European countries are stark, with higher death rates in Eastern Europe, indicating the impact on longevity.
Researchers uncover structural details of how proteins interact to turn two signals into one, enabling fine-tuning of signal and drug action. The study provides crucial insights into nuclear receptor communication, paving the way for improved drug design.
Researchers discovered that genetic variations in opioid receptors are associated with more severe neonatal abstinence syndrome (NAS) in newborn babies. These variations can help identify infants at risk of requiring medication to curb NAS symptoms, enabling tailored treatment plans and improved outcomes.
A new species of crayfish, Cherax snowden, has been identified in West Papua, Indonesia, and is easily distinguishable from its relatives. The species was named after Edward Snowden due to its orange coloration and shape of body.
A study found that delayed administration of epinephrine was associated with a decreased chance of 24-hour survival and survival to hospital discharge among children with cardiac arrest. The researchers analyzed data from the Get With the Guidelines-Resuscitation registry and included U.S. pediatric patients who received at least one d...
Researchers found malformed fossil plankton with high concentrations of toxic metals, linked to ocean anoxia and potential extinction causes. The study suggests that metal poisoning may have contributed to some world's largest extinction events.
A case-series of eight British healthcare workers who received antiviral-based therapies after possible accidental exposure to Ebola virus in Sierra Leone did not develop the disease. The study suggests that post-exposure prophylaxis may be effective in preventing Ebola infection, and authors call for standardised guidelines to be deve...
Tropical Cyclone Atsani transitioning into an extra-tropical low with potential for heavy rainfall in eastern Russia. The Joint Typhoon Warning Center issued its final bulletin on August 26, predicting landfall south of eastern Russia.
Researchers found that a 1,102-pound steer can safely consume up to 2.8 pounds of fresh tall larkspur daily without severe poisoning. The study also identified the importance of non-MSAL-type alkaloids in determining toxicity potential.
A new study suggests that women's sexual identities are more flexible and adaptive than men's, with women being more likely to report bisexuality. Women who have favorable options in the heterosexual partner market may be less likely to explore relationships with same-sex partners.
The Antarctic Circumpolar Current began its eastern flow through the Southern Ocean 30 million years ago, driven by the Tasmanian gateway's alignment with mid-latitude westerly wind bands. This massive ocean current transports heat and salt around the world, shaping regional climates.
A large NIH clinical trial of 4,000 patients found that omega-3 supplements had no effect on cognitive decline. Researchers tested the combination of omega-3 fatty acids and lutein/zeaxanthin, but saw no benefit in slowing age-related macular degeneration (AMD) or dementia.
Breastfeeding from 0-5 months significantly reduces infant mortality risk, with exclusively breastfed infants having a lower risk of dying compared to those who were not breastfed. Continued breastfeeding up to 23 months also lowers the risk of infant mortality.
A project in Togo saw a 10% drop in TB death rates by increasing the treatment success rate to 95%, while mortality dropped from 13% to 3%. The redesigned system improved coverage, quality, and patient participation, highlighting the importance of data analysis and skilled workforce.
A new NASA study reveals that the presence of vegetation is crucial in mitigating urban heat island effects, which can raise temperatures by 1.9°C in urban areas compared to surrounding rural areas. The study found that replacing impervious surfaces with vegetation can reduce temperature differences by up to 1.3°C.
Researchers identified a new virus, phopivirus, in seals genetically similar to hepatitis A, suggesting it may have originated in animals. The discovery provides clues on the emergence of hepatitis A and highlights the importance of studying wildlife reservoirs of zoonotic viruses.
Researchers successfully joined two separate pieces of embryonic mouse intestine using growth supports, allowing nerve signals to pass through and promoting growth. The breakthrough could lead to treatment for conditions like short bowel syndrome, a condition causing damage to the bowel that prevents nutrient absorption.
A UC sociology study reveals that reality TV and fictional programs have a significant impact on pregnant women's expectations of pregnancy and birth. Women with lower educational attainment tend to view TV as an alternative to traditional childbirth education, while highly educated women frame it as entertainment for young children.
The study identified gene variants within three highly associated regions for Crohn's disease, including NOD2 and interleukin 23 receptor. Additionally, the researchers found novel regions of chromosomes 2 and 3 to be causative for IBD in African-Americans.
New research suggests that targeted punishments could provide a path to international climate change cooperation. By devising rules for small groups of 'defectors' to focus pressure, cooperation can build up gradually, ultimately leading to collective action against climate change.