A nationwide survey found that over 1500 middle and high school science teachers were unaware of or misinformed about the scientific consensus on climate change. Many teachers also brought climate change denial into the classroom, allowing students to discuss controversy without guiding them to scientifically supported conclusions.
A study in yeast reveals that nutrients can affect gene expression, suggesting a complex interplay between metabolism and genetics. The findings have implications for understanding how cells respond to certain drugs and may explain why some individuals fail to respond to treatment.
Wyss Institute researchers create protein actuators that can mechanically puncture cell membranes and release beneficial molecules. The system, inspired by bacterial R bodies, uses pH levels to extend and retract the nanoneedles, enabling precise control over cell delivery.
A multidisciplinary team from the Monell Center has characterized the identity and functionality of salt-responding taste cells on the tongue. The knowledge may lead to novel approaches to develop salt replacers or enhancers that can help reduce sodium content in food.
A study in mice reveals that changes in the lateral septum, a brain structure tied to anxiety and fear control, trigger 'septal rage' - sudden, violent outbursts. The research may lead to better understanding of aggression in other animals, including humans.
Researchers found that e-cigarette chemicals suppress key immune genes in the nasal mucosa, similar to smoking cigarettes. The study suggests that e-cigarettes may have broader effects on respiratory immune responses than initially thought.
A new study from the University of Eastern Finland found that a high-cholesterol diet and frequent egg consumption are not associated with an elevated risk of coronary heart disease. The study included over 1,000 men aged 42-60 years and found no link between dietary cholesterol or eggs and cardiovascular disease.
Researchers from Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology Graduate University developed a method to create ordered crystal-like structures from micelles using shear flow, enabling faster drug discovery and material sciences applications. The technique involves adding external shear flow to induce controlled crystallization at ambien...
A study published in Cell Press identified a neural circuit mediating social seeking behavior driven by a loneliness-like state in mice. The discovery sheds light on the neuroscience of isolation and may help understand social anxiety and autism spectrum disorders.
Assistant Professor John McCutcheon receives $746,301 NSF CAREER grant to continue his lab's work on mitochondria and chloroplasts. The award aims to increase Montana students' competitiveness in handling complex data sets.
Researchers successfully experimented with chiral magnetic materials that show a unique magnetic twisting effect triggered by weak external magnetic fields. This leads to the development of new types of magnetic memories with unprecedented storage capacities, up to 10 million times larger than conventional magnetic storage memory devices.
Researchers create nanowire lasers with exceptional brightness and stability, promising breakthroughs in optoelectronics and photonics. The innovative method uses a simple chemical-dipping process to produce self-assembled nanoscale crystals, plates, and wires composed of cesium, lead, and bromine.
Researchers investigated how carbon dioxide interacts with host rocks like limestone and sandstone. They found that limestone becomes more permeable when dissolved in saltwater-carbon dioxide mixture, while sandstone's cement degrades.
Cancer patients face financial distress due to rising medication costs, according to Dr. Scott Ramsey's editorial. To address this issue, policy interventions are proposed, including price negotiations with manufacturers and greater transparency of pricing.
A study of US science teachers found that 30% emphasize natural causes for global warming, while 12% don't mention human causes. The authors propose addressing the root causes of resistance to science through science communication research.
Researchers at UBC's Okanagan campus discovered a way to enhance the amount of light coming through glass by coating small pieces with thin layers of metal. This breakthrough may enable integration of electronic capabilities into windows, making them 'smart' and energy-efficient.
Higher intake of food-based vitamin D during pregnancy was associated with reduced risk of development of allergies in children. Vitamin D modulates the immune system and its potential role in asthma and allergy has been of interest.
A new study led by TSRI scientists has found that oxygen sensing in the brain plays a role in metabolism and internal state sensing. The research discovered a connection between oxygen levels and fat reserves in animal models, suggesting a possible mechanism for regulating metabolism in humans.
Researchers at Umea University have found that the protein FGF21 redistributes fatty acids through two mechanisms, leading to improved pharmaceutical treatment options for obesity-related diseases. The study also shows that FGF21 can activate the enzyme Lipoprotein lipase, increasing the hydrolytic cleavage and uptake of blood lipids.
Researchers at Mayo Clinic have demonstrated significant health improvements in the vascular system of mice following repeated treatments to remove senescent cells. The study shows that regular clearance of senescent cells can improve age-related vascular conditions and may be a viable approach to reduce cardiovascular disease and death.
Scientists at Indiana University have developed a method to alter a plant's innate defense system to deliver resistance to a new disease. By creating decoy proteins that mimic bacterial modifications, the team broadened the recognition ability of a sensor protein to detect multiple pathogens.
A study published in the Journal of the American Medical Informatics Association found that follow-up emails from doctors are crucial to keeping patients informed about their care. Patients who continued receiving reminders tended to access their notes more frequently, leading to better health outcomes.
The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) has developed a 3D laser scanning technology that can accurately measure spaces and preserve details. This technology is being used in various fields, including archaeology, real estate, and manufacturing, to enhance space preservation and renovation.
Elsevier has launched Transplantation Reports, an online-only, open-access journal serving the international transplant community. The journal will publish original research, reviews, editorials, and commentaries related to transplantation.
A new device can detect prostate cancer in urine samples using a gas chromatography sensor system, allowing for earlier diagnosis and potentially reducing the need for invasive procedures. The technology has shown promising results in a pilot study involving 155 men.
Scientists have developed a method to engineer custom biosensor proteins that can precisely sense specific molecules, expanding the variety of biosensor designs. The approach combines computational protein design, in vitro synthesis, and in vivo testing to identify tailored biosensors.
A recent study has found that most protein isoforms encoded by the same gene have radically different roles within tissues and cells, despite being structurally alike. This discovery suggests that each protein isoform needs to be studied individually to understand its normal role and potential involvement in disease.
Rates of BRCA testing have increased among young women with breast cancer, with 87% reporting testing within a year after diagnosis. The high frequency is attributed to comprehensive genetic counseling services available at cancer centers.
A study on the history of hemodialysis explores how medical research and technological advancements impact resource distribution. The investigation found that bioethical principles, such as autonomy and justice, are weighed differently over time, emphasizing the need for sustainable ethical solutions.
Researchers at Tel Aviv University have discovered a novel peptide that enhances memory and reveals significant gender differences in the brain. The peptide, developed to treat neuroprotective protein deficiencies, has been shown to accelerate microtubular function and normalize nerve-cell transport in both males and females.
Rochester Institute of Technology researchers' 2005 breakthrough prediction of gravitational waves has been confirmed by LIGO. Their work introduced a revolutionary new way to understand the universe through gravitational wave astronomy, opening up frontiers in the field.
Researchers have identified correlations between Neandertal-derived genes and disease states in modern humans, including depression, addiction, and metabolism. The study found that Neandertal alleles were significantly correlated with the risk for 12 traits, including myocardial infarction and blood disorders.
An international team led by Dr. Yury Gogotsi and Dr. Patrice Simon has confirmed that carbon films can be integrated into silicon chips for energy storage, enabling the creation of microscale batteries on a chip. This breakthrough opens up possibilities for smaller personal electronic devices and the Internet of Things.
A daily dose of beetroot juice significantly improved exercise endurance by 24% after one week, while also reducing resting systolic blood pressure by 5-10mmHg. The study found that the juice's inorganic nitrate content has beneficial effects on vascular health and oxygen metabolism.
A study at The Wistar Institute revealed that Satb1 expression is required for proper immune response, but its prolonged presence drives immunosuppressive behavior. Silencing Satb1 in tumor-associated dendritic cells boosted T-cell activation and reduced inflammation.
Women with asthma experienced a significantly longer median total time to pregnancy (32.2 months vs 55.6 months) compared to those without asthma. Additionally, the birth rate was lower among asthmatic women, with fewer successful conceptions (39.6% vs 60.4%).
A new test has shown that patients with advanced bowel cancer who have high levels of two proteins can benefit from a combination of drugs, leading to improved cancer growth. The test could help select the best treatment for each individual patient, potentially improving survival rates and quality of life.
A team of Wisconsin researchers has successfully transformed mouse fibroblasts into primitive master heart cells, which can form the developing heart. The technology could permit a scalable method for making an almost unlimited supply of cardiac progenitor cells, providing material to study heart disease and potentially treat diseased ...
Scientists at NTU have developed a small smart chip that can wirelessly transmit brain signals from neural implants, increasing efficiency and reducing the risk of infections. The chip analyzes and decodes thousands of signals with high accuracy, enabling compact medical wearable devices and prosthetic limb control.
Researchers at UCLA found significant changes in brain chemicals GABA and glutamate in patients with sleep apnea, which can lead to symptoms like depression, stress, and memory loss. The study suggests that treating sleep apnea may help restore normal brain chemical levels.
A new study published by the American Psychological Association found that learning about the personal and intellectual struggles of famous scientists can improve high school students' science grades. Students who read about the scientists' failures had significantly improved their grades, with low-achievers benefiting the most.
Scientists have observed ripples in spacetime, called gravitational waves, arriving from a cataclysmic event in the distant universe. This confirms a major prediction of Albert Einstein's general theory of relativity, providing information about gravity and its nature.
A study found that viral infections, including a herpes-like virus, contributed to coral bleaching events, particularly under high temperatures and environmental stresses. The research suggests that viruses may play an important role in coral disease, especially when combined with other stressors.
A new study has identified four genes associated with leptin levels, providing insight into the complex relationship between body fat and hunger. The findings have important implications for understanding obesity and developing targeted treatments.
Research by UofL professor Daniel J. Conklin found e-cigarettes may cause atherosclerosis, a plaque-causing disease leading to heart attacks and strokes. The study exposed mice to varying levels of e-cigarette aerosol, tobacco smoke, or nicotine alone, revealing that multiple constituents have cardiovascular disease-causing potential.
A new study published in The Lancet Neurology confirmed that different generic antiepileptic products are equally effective in treating epilepsy, with no measurable difference found between them. This finding provides reassurance for patients and clinicians about the safety of substituting generics.
A large-scale study of 4,500 twins found that personality traits, not grit, predict around six percent of the differences in GCSE results. Grit alone only predicted 0.5 percent of these differences. The researchers suggest teaching grit to pupils may not be as effective as previously thought.
Long-term use of liraglutide can lead to a gradual exhaustion of insulin-producing beta cells, reducing their secretion of insulin. This study using humanized mice suggests the need for caution when prescribing long-term GLP-1 analogues.
The Automatic Identification System (AIS) can help minimize the negative effects of shipping on marine mammals. Researchers used AIS to track vessel traffic in relation to whale habitats, identifying areas where shipping lanes and migration routes overlap. By improving coverage and usability of data, AIS can inform conservation efforts.
Electronic Health Record (EHR) systems must collect data on patients' sexual orientation and gender identity, advancing LGBT health. Providers are encouraged to record these data correctly to provide quality care for the unique needs of subpopulations within the LGBT community.
RapidScat instrument measures high winds in Tropical Cyclone Daya, while Aqua satellite detects cold cloud top temperatures. The storm is expected to weaken due to increasing wind shear.
A UMD-led team has solved the Colonel Blotto game theory scenario, a two-party conflict used to analyze election outcomes. The new algorithm can help political strategists and business leaders make better decisions by computing the best resource investment strategy for any competitor.
A study has uncovered a complex planktonic network influencing the ocean's biological carbon pump, which removes carbon from the atmosphere. The research found that certain bacterial and viral genes predict variations in carbon export, enabling better predictions of climate change effects.
Physicists at TUM have developed a nanolaser that can be integrated onto a silicon chip, paving the way for fast and efficient data processing with light. The technology has the potential to break barriers of current electronics.
Disney researchers have developed a method to estimate pose and predict orientation of objects, using similarities in how different types of objects appear from the same angle. The system proved effective in predicting pose even for unseen objects, with applications in self-driving cars and other computer vision tasks.
A survey of medical specialists found significant variability in the definition of reasonable medical certainty, with experts citing different probabilities and settings for interpretation.
Researchers found that when people see something associated with a past reward, their brain releases dopamine even if they're not expecting it. This could explain why breaking bad habits or sticking to resolutions is hard. The study's results suggest potential benefits for addicts and dieters.
New study confirms Neanderthal DNA has a subtle but significant impact on modern human biology, including associations with skin lesions, nicotine addiction, depression, and blood coagulation. The research uses anonymized electronic health records and genomes to test the effects of archaic genetic variants on clinical traits.
UM Rosenstiel School researchers found that fish larvae swam on a 15 percent straighter course and seven percent faster when in groups. This group orientation behavior is thought to be beneficial for reducing predation and detecting food, a phenomenon previously observed only in adult fish.
Scientists have observed ripples in spacetime called gravitational waves, providing insight into the nature of gravity. The detection was made possible by improved LIGO detectors, allowing for increased sensitivity and a larger volume of the universe to be probed.
The electrospray technique allows for precise control over the structure of individual layers in 3D printing, enabling the production of parts with specific mechanical, electrical, thermal and optical properties. This could lead to advancements in devices for energy production, healthcare and security.
Researchers at CNIO find potential therapy for aggressive type of lung cancer in preclinical models, combining dasatinib and demcizumab to reduce tumour size and improve survival rates. The study uses genetically modified mice and validates effectiveness with human samples, paving the way for clinical trials.
A new species of desert tortoise has been discovered in Mexico, exhibiting distinct characteristics from its two known sister species. The Gopherus evgoodei species occupies the smallest geographic range and has a unique orange cast to its dark brownish shell.
Researchers at Harvard have advanced graphene's understanding by observing electrons behaving like a fluid, defying classical physics expectations. The findings pave the way for novel thermoelectric devices and provide a model system to explore exotic phenomena.
The Laser Interferometer Gravitational-Wave Observatory (LIGO) has detected ripples in space-time, also known as gravitational waves, for the first time on Earth. This breakthrough opens a new window into the universe and revolutionizes our understanding of violent cosmic events.
Researchers have discovered that young worms can form lasting memories of toxic bacteria smells, using a different set of neurons than adult worms. The study, published in Cell, sheds light on the neural circuits that drive early learning and memory formation.
A University of Missouri study found that men who engaged in high-impact activities during adolescence and young adulthood had greater bone mineral density than those who didn't. This association was observed across all ages, suggesting that it's never too late to start a bone-strengthening exercise program.
Recent analysis suggests that groundwater storage has contributed up to 22% to slowing sea level rise, with climate-driven changes in precipitation playing the key role. Human-induced factors like reservoir filling and water pumping have also affected land storage capacity, although to a lesser extent.
Researchers at Queen Mary University of London have discovered that the antimalarial drug Artesunate can reduce organ failure following injury in rats. The study's findings suggest that Artesunate could be a highly effective option for treating major trauma patients, particularly those experiencing hemorrhagic shock.
A recent study found that people searching for vaping-related terms are primarily interested in shopping for e-cigarettes rather than health information. This suggests a concerning trend in the growing vaping industry, where marketing and advertising efforts may be targeting consumers without regard for potential health risks.
Researchers at UCL have achieved a record-breaking data rate of 1.125 Tb/s using custom-built optical communications system with multiple transmitting channels and a single receiver. This breakthrough is expected to support the growth of high-speed internet and cloud services, enabling faster data transfer rates.
Researchers found liraglutide, a promising diabetes drug, can lead to pancreatic beta cell burnout in mice after six months of high-dose treatment. The study highlights the need for further investigation into the potential risks of this medication.
A recent study published in Housing Policy Debate found that the location of subsidized housing has a significant impact on residents' educational attainment. Residents in poorer neighborhoods with higher crime rates and lower levels of education earned fewer college credits per year compared to those in more advantaged areas.
Botanists in Hawai'i have discovered a new species of plant with heart-shaped fruits, which they named Coprosma cordicarpa. The new species is a member of the coffee family and is currently listed as vulnerable to extinction due to its limited range and rarity.
The brain regulates the size of neuronal ensembles that reflect the memory trace to optimize performance, researchers from Université de Genève demonstrate. The study shows that inhibiting or resurfacing a memory can be achieved by targeting neurons in the hippocampus.
Concentrations of iron similar to those delivered through standard treatments can trigger DNA damage within 10 minutes, when given to cells in the laboratory. Researchers from Imperial College London suggest that standard treatment dosages may be causing cell damage, highlighting the need for careful consideration of iron levels.
Researchers found ichnites of temnospondyls, seymouriamorphs, captorhinids, and synapsids in the Manyanet Valley, providing insights into ancient tetrapod diversity. The study suggests climate changes influenced faunal distribution during the Permian Period.
Researchers at Gladstone Institutes found that three transcription factors -- NKX2-5, TBX5, and GATA4 -- must interact for proper heart development. Without these interactions, severe congenital heart defects occur. The study revealed the proteins' genomic and physical interactions, providing new insights into treating heart disease.
A study at the University of Washington found that male students ranked their male classmates as more knowledgeable about course content, even when female students performed better. This gender bias was consistent across 11 different class surveys and could impact female students' perception of themselves in STEM fields.
Researchers identified 27 genes in brain stem cells prone to DNA damage, which could promote disease but also benefit brain diversity. The fragility of these genes may lead to mutations or deletions in cancers and neuropsychiatric disorders.
Researchers found that younger T cells are critically important in T cell immunotherapy and can be more effective when collected earlier. This discovery has the potential to change clinical management in T cell immunotherapy.
Research published by the American Psychological Association found that people who feel older than their peers are more likely to be hospitalized. The study analyzed data from over 10,000 adults and found a 10-25% increased likelihood of hospitalization among those who reported feeling older.
Researchers have identified antigens that activate autoreactive T cells in autoimmune diabetes, a potential trigger for the disease. The discovery provides insight into how the immune system is tricked into destroying the body's own beta cells.
A new study suggests that hearing messages of hope from Palestinians, regardless of their affiliation, can instill greater sense of hope among Jewish Israelis. In contrast, similar hopeful messages from outside experts had no effect. The findings have implications for protracted intergroup conflicts beyond the Israeli-Palestinian confl...
KAMC's Hajj Committee plans year-round to ensure preparedness for the massive patient influx during the Hajj. The hospital treats 700-1000 cardiac patients, with most being Hajj visitors, and has increased echocardiography staff from 7 to 13 during peak seasons.
New research documents high levels of algal toxins in Alaskan marine mammals, including whales, walruses, and sea otters. The study finds a major northward expansion of toxin-exposed areas along the Pacific Coast, with implications for human consumption.
Researchers at the John Innes Centre have identified DNA gyrase as a key enzyme in plants that can be targeted for the development of new, more effective herbicides. This discovery holds promise for reducing the risk of antibiotic resistance and ensuring the safety of farmers and gardeners.
Researchers identified hybrid insulin peptides (HIPs) that trigger autoimmune response in T1D patients, prompting immune system to attack insulin-producing cells. These findings may help explain the mystery of why people with T1D are affected by incorrect insulin peptide bonding.
A research team led by GGC physicist Lior Burko simulated a rotating black hole for the first time, revealing that objects can stay intact as they approach the center. The simulation supports popular science fiction scenarios where black holes are used as portals for hyperspace travel.
Researchers found two proteins that play a crucial role in axonal degeneration, the first part of neurodegenerative diseases. The discovery creates new avenues for finding ways to protect neurons from damage.
Tropical Cyclone Winston is intensifying with powerful thunderstorms circling its center and generating heavy rainfall. Sea surface temperatures of near 31 degrees Celsius are fueling the storm's growth, with maximum sustained winds expected to reach 105 knots.
Research reveals that humans mirror others' faces to recognize and share emotions. This phenomenon is linked to social disorders like autism, where facial expression recognition can be impaired. Understanding sensorimotor simulation may help treat related conditions.
Researchers discovered a novel mechanism by which adenovirus protein E4orf4 inhibits the DNA damage response, improving viral replication. This finding provides insight into the virus's ability to infect immunocompromised patients and may lead to new cancer therapies.
A study by University of Utah researcher Elisabeth Conradt found that a mother's sensitivity can buffer her infant from the negative impacts of maternal depression. Infants whose mothers were sensitive had lower cortisol levels and less DNA methylation, indicating reduced exposure to maternal stress hormones.
Researchers at Kansas State University have successfully identified a resistance gene called 2NS and developed diagnostic tools to detect the disease. The team is working on finding new sources of resistance to overcome the constantly evolving fungus.
The INNUENDO project aims to integrate whole genome sequencing into routine surveillance and outbreak investigations, addressing the need for accessible IT frameworks and expertise. The cross-sectorial framework will standardize process, simplify data analysis, and enhance public health microbiology capabilities.
Researchers at TU Darmstadt develop a new technique to fabricate microlens arrays with highly regular structures, reducing costs and time. The method uses cellular convection in a thick liquid layer to pattern a thin polymer film, ideal for photovoltaic systems.
Researchers developed a real-time system to track Ebola virus particles' interaction with human cells, revealing crucial host and viral proteins involved in fusion. The study identifies specific cellular proteins required for fusion, offering insights into designing future drugs or vaccines.
Researchers used high-pressure experiments to create two new iron oxides, which decompose at extreme conditions and release significant amounts of oxygen-rich fluid. The discovery suggests a huge oxygen source in the Earth's lower mantle that can affect geochemical processes.
Researchers reconstructed what wasps see during learning flights, revealing how they monitor changing views and rely on familiar sights. The study sheds light on the insects' remarkable navigation abilities, which may inspire new approaches to robotics and ecological neuroscience.
Two new hominin fossils, a finger bone and a molar, were found in the Sterkfontein Caves, associated with early stone tools dating back 2.18 million years. The specimens possess intriguing features that raise more questions than answers.
A new study by Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center El Paso found that a compound in neem leaves can stop pancreatic cancer growth and metastasis without harming normal cells. The researchers observed a 70% reduction in cancer cell migration and invasion, as well as an 80% drop in cancer cell colonies.
Researchers have identified two new zoantharian species attached to eunicid worm tubes in the dark depths of the Indo-Pacific Ocean. The species, Epizoanthus inazuma and E. beriber, were found in low-light environments and possess unique characteristics.
Researchers found two distinct subgroups of Yersinia pestis bacteria causing human plague in Uganda's West Nile region, with one subgroup found at lower elevations and the other at higher elevations.
MIT neuroscientists identify the brain region responsible for feelings of loneliness and increased sociability after isolation. This discovery provides a starting point for studying loneliness-like states and their neural mechanisms.
RapidScat measures surface winds in intensifying tropical cyclone Tatiana, providing forecasters with pinpoint data to track strongest winds. The storm is currently well offshore and poses no immediate threat to the Queensland coast.
The US Fish and Wildlife Service has imposed a ban on importing 201 species of salamanders to prevent the spread of deadly fungal disease Bsal. Researchers will discuss lessons learned from controlling another closely related fungus, Bd, which has decimated frog populations worldwide.
A dynamic model focusing on site scale conservation helps answer questions about how small white lady's slipper orchid habitats will change with climate change. The model provides information on management strategies specific to the location and plant itself, benefiting rare species with limited ranges.
University of Leeds researchers will run computer software to identify compounds that could be the basis of antivirals for Ebola. The project focuses on finding effective anti-viral drugs, as vaccines are not yet available to treat infected patients.
A new study reveals that the transition to family foods drives gut microbiota development in infants, rather than maternal obesity. The study found that breastfeeding duration and complementary diet composition played key roles in shaping the infant's gut microbiome.
A retrospective study found that freezing nerves before knee replacement surgery significantly improves patient outcomes, with shorter hospital stays and reduced opioid use. The treatment group had fewer knee symptoms and better local pain control, allowing patients to walk and function well enough to go home sooner.
Researchers identified 27 hotspots of frequent DNA breaks in genes associated with brain tumors and neurodevelopmental/psychiatric diseases. These break hotspots may play a role in generating neural diversity during development.
Researchers used DREEM to visualize how DNA wraps around TRF2, forming T-loops that protect chromosome ends. The new technique provides insights into telomere maintenance and structure-function relationships.
Researchers at Scripps Florida identified a memory suppressor microRNA called miR-980, which regulates neuronal excitability and inhibiting it improves memory. The study found links between miR-980 and autism spectrum disorder, suggesting that the microRNA may contribute to the development of the condition.
A study by Michigan Medicine researchers found that many medical schools fail to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act, making it difficult for prospective students with disabilities to find information and access accommodations. The researchers call on schools to reexamine their policies and improve compliance.
Scientists discovered advanced social behavior in 100-million-year-old amber, revealing that ants and termites had sophisticated caste systems tens of millions of years earlier than thought. The fossils preserved the presence of different castes, including queen ants and workers, as well as eusocial behaviors such as combat and foraging.
A new study suggests that a man's attachment style may influence his perceptions of whether a woman is interested in him sexually. Men with higher attachment anxiety tend to imagine women as more interested, while those with higher attachment avoidance see themselves as less flirty.
Scientists observed ripples in spacetime called gravitational waves from colliding black holes, confirming a major prediction of Albert Einstein's general theory of relativity. The detected waves were produced during the merger of two black holes, with masses about 29 and 36 times that of the sun.