Archaeologists uncover evidence of domesticated rice in China, shedding new light on the history of human agricultural practices. The discovery suggests that rice domestication has been ongoing for much longer than previously thought, with characteristics consistent with japonica rice now cultivated in Japan and Korea.
A new study by NYU researchers found that only 8.3% of high school seniors reported past-year nonmedical opioid use, but when accounting for discordant responses, the prevalence rate is estimated to be 11.1%. This underestimation highlights the need for better drug education and more accurate data to combat the opioid crisis.
A study of 39 Finnish infants found that antibiotic treatments during childhood reduced the diversity and stability of their intestinal microbiota. The research highlights the potential long-term health consequences of unnecessary antibiotic use in children.
West Nile virus causes memory loss and mood disorders by sparking inflammation that prunes synapses, the connections between nerve cells. Researchers have identified potential new treatments for the mosquito-borne illness.
Researchers have developed new time-domain diffuse optics systems that provide deeper insights into human bodies using light. These systems have the potential to detect and identify tissue components, including organs and functions previously unreachable with traditional diagnostic devices.
The current federal legal status of marijuana is a major barrier to research and regulation. Reclassifying cannabis as a less dangerous substance would make it easier for scientists to study its medical benefits and untangle regulations. This could lead to safer pesticides being tested on legal crops.
Researchers identified that West Nile virus may cause long-term neurological problems like memory loss by over-activating the immune system in the brain. The study suggests that intervening in this immune response may help prevent brain damage or aid recovery.
Research finds that early behavior problems negatively impact boys' educational outcomes more significantly than girls', perpetuating the existing gender gap in US education. Boys with similar behavioral issues tend to complete fewer years of schooling and are more likely to be held back.
The Pacific Northwest National Laboratory will lead a regional smart manufacturing center, advancing and implementing smart manufacturing technologies to improve energy management and reduce energy use. The center will focus on industries such as food processing, advanced materials, and metals processing.
The study found that mesh screens provide cost-effective pest control for organically grown peppers, excluding insects including beneficial and pest species. The researchers recommended lighter colored, and/or wider meshes to allow entry of sunlight and beneficial species.
A study found that 34% of hospitals in low- and middle-income countries lacked continuous running water, compromising patient care. Hospitals without running water often rely on trucked-in or rainwater, which can be contaminated and unsanitary.
A study published in BMC Public Health found that nearly a quarter of US adults reported looking for information on tobacco constituents, with young adults and smokers more likely to do so. The research suggests that making this information available could improve public health and reduce tobacco use.
The study found that patients who received the LINKAGE intervention had greater involvement in managing their health and healthcare than those receiving standard care. Participants showed significant increases in patient portal use and rates of abstinence from alcohol and drugs.
A new study in Nature predicts hundreds of massive black hole mergers each year observable with the second generation of gravitational wave detectors. The model takes into account differences in binary black hole production across the universe.
Researchers found that cancers in several species of bivalves are caused by independent clones of cancer cells with distinct genetic profiles. In one species, cross-species transmission was observed, revealing a previously unknown mechanism of disease spread among marine animals.
A nationwide survey found that Americans spent $30.2 billion out-of-pocket on complementary health approaches, with the majority spent on visits to practitioners such as chiropractors and massage therapists. The average annual expenditure per user was $435 for low-income families and $590 for high-income families.
A new study published by University of Toronto researchers found that childhood sexual abuse and physical abuse are associated with twice the odds of drug dependence. Chronic parental domestic violence exposure also remained significantly associated with both drug and alcohol dependence.
A new study found that an ebb and flow subirrigation system can control plant height and alleviate salt stress in poinsettia. The method, known as partial-saturation ebb and flow watering, achieves partial saturation of the root medium, reducing water uptake and sodium accumulation.
Since gun law reform in 1996, Australia has seen an accelerating decline in intentional firearm deaths and an absence of fatal mass shootings. Key findings include a significant acceleration in the downward trend for firearm suicides and a non-significant acceleration in the downward trend in firearm homicides.
A worldwide competition of engineered cells through microfluidic mazes revealed that neutrophil-like cells must balance speed against chemotactic accuracy. An adapted version of the amoeba Dicty with increased activity of a particular protein, Ric8, emerged as the most successful strategy.
A historic $54.5M donation from hospital foundations will propel women's and children's health research, improving outcomes through peer-reviewed grants, researcher recruitment, and incubator services. The University of Alberta Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry is a key partner in this transformative gift.
A new study published in Radiology found that pre-operative supine MRI can provide more detailed and accurate information than prone MRI, helping surgeons detect remnant tumors and ensure clear margins. This could lead to effective tumor removal and reduce the need for re-operations.
Researchers at George Washington University are studying a potential new treatment for heart failure by restoring parasympathetic activity to the heart, which could improve cardiac function. The study uses high-speed optical assessments of heart function to identify heart-specific benefits of oxytocin nerve activation.
Scientists at Helmholtz Zentrum München have developed a novel antibody targeting carbonic anhydrase XII, which is overexpressed in cancer cells, with the goal of improving treatment options for glioblastoma patients. The antibody conjugated with lutetium-177 can deliver lethal doses to tumor cells directly.
A study found that Zika virus alerts led to a significant increase in abortion requests in Latin American countries with restricted access. The researchers analyzed data from an online portal and found that women were more likely to seek an abortion after receiving health alerts about the virus.
Researcher Erika Geisbrecht is studying the connection between a gene called clueless (clu) and genes that cause Parkinson's disease in fruit flies. She aims to understand how muscles develop and maintain themselves throughout a fruit fly's life to apply this knowledge to humans.
A team from Southwest Research Institute suggests that asteroid impacts during the early days of Earth's history led to a massive greenhouse effect, stabilizing temperatures and delivering essential elements for life. This mechanism may have played a key role in sustaining liquid water on our planet.
A new study by Kaitlin Wowak and colleagues reveals that time pressures, supply chain permeation, and product characteristics hinder traceability. To overcome these barriers, firms can adopt different traceability requirements for perishable products and use 'nicknames' to track blended products.
A new tool called Phenocart captures essential plant health data, allowing for faster measurements and larger experiments. The portable device uses a repurposed bicycle wheel and handles to collect data on growth rate, color, and other vital signs.
Astronomers from UMD and Michigan document X-rays bouncing off inner accretion disk near dormant black hole Swift J1644+57. The study reveals the shape and activity of the accretion disk, opening a door to reliable measurements of black hole spin.
Research suggests that an extract from hops could help fend off breast cancer by boosting the cells' detoxification pathway, a process linked to a lower risk of developing breast cancer. The study found that one particular compound, 6-PN, had anti-cancer effects and may be a potential natural alternative to hormone replacement therapy.
A new study found that centuries-old court records in Istanbul reveal high interest rates for the wealthy and privileged, while the poor faced lower rates. The research suggests that these biases have unintended consequences, exacerbating modern poverty.
A new study suggests that higher late-life cognitive reserve is linked to lower incidence and severity of delirium in older surgical patients. Participating in cognitively stimulating activities such as reading, singing, or playing computer games may help protect against delirium.
A new study found that older adults who need help taking medications often have poor vision, hearing, or diagnosed conditions like stroke, diabetes, hypertension, heart attack, or cancer. The study also identified age and gender as predictors of medication assistance needs, with men and those aged 80+ being more likely to require help.
Scientists have developed a magnetically controlled drug that can dissolve blood clots up to 4000 times more efficiently than ordinary enzyme-based drugs. The new material protects enzymes from inhibitors and maintains therapeutic properties over extended periods.
Researchers found that about 1 in 400 people have 36 or more repeats of the gene, which could lead to a higher incidence of the disease. People with reduced penetrance may be at relatively low risk but play a larger role in transmitting the full penetrance gene to their children.
An international team has discovered an elegant way to decouple organic nanosheets grown on metal surfaces. By exposing the networks to iodine vapour, they reduced the adhesion between the network and the metal, allowing the molecules to behave almost as if they were free-standing.
A recent study by Maria Chikina and Nathan Clark found that during three major independent evolutionary events, mammals returned to the sea, involving many genetic trade-offs. The researchers identified hundreds of genes affected, including those involved in sensory systems, muscle function, skin, and metabolism.
Doctors used PET scans to identify patients with advanced Hodgkin lymphoma who could safely stop using the potentially toxic drug bleomycin. This approach resulted in similar survival rates and fewer side effects for those who stopped bleomycin compared to those who continued it.
Bowhead calves experience severe bone loss to sustain growth of their enormous heads and baleen plates, outpacing body growth by years. This unusual adaptation allows the whales to catch prey with efficient baleen, compensating for limited baleen at weaning age.
A woman with amnesia, Lonni Sue Johnson, surprisingly retains detailed knowledge of skills she once performed well in, such as art and flying, despite losing memories of facts about her life. Researchers at Johns Hopkins University find that skill-related memory can be spared even with severe losses in other kinds of knowledge.
A recent study published in the Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health found that people with diabetes are at a 56% increased risk of dying from a STEMI heart attack and a 39% increased risk of dying from a NSTEMI heart attack compared to those without diabetes. Researchers tracked over 700,000 people who had been admitted to hos...
Researchers at University of Illinois have identified candidate genes controlling the accumulation of phenolic compounds in broccoli, which are associated with a lower risk of coronary heart disease and certain cancers. Breeding broccoli with mega-doses of these compounds may lead to improved health benefits.
Scientists found that contrails formed within existing high clouds increase cloud reflectivity, a key factor in climate regulation. This discovery offers insights into aviation's influence on climate, particularly in mid-latitude regions.
Citrus greening disease huanglongbing (HLB) severity impacts citrus peel and fruit mechanical properties. HLB-symptomatic fruits are softer and more prone to preharvest fruit drop, while severely symptomatic trees experience higher postharvest pressure damage.
Robert DeConto, a leading expert on climate modeling, has won the 2016 Tinker-Muse Prize for Science and Policy in Antarctica. His research integrating geological data with modeling reveals likely consequences for future sea level rise from ice sheet melt.
Researchers have discovered a new molecular mechanism that directs cellular DNA repair proteins to lesions in DNA, making it an attractive target for cancer therapy. By understanding how this mechanism works, scientists can design small molecule inhibitors that block the function of TONSL protein and promote cancer cell death.
Researchers at the University of Houston have developed a new technique using near-infrared light to measure chemical composition in materials. The technique enhances sensitivity by 10,000 times, making it suitable for water-based samples and allowing for more detailed analysis.
The updated DIfE German Diabetes Risk Score takes into account familial predisposition and provides personalized recommendations to reduce risk. The test is now available online and on mobile devices, offering a quick and precise assessment of type 2 diabetes risk.
Researchers compared bioplastics with biofabrics, finding that biofabrics increased soil moisture and suppressed weed emergence. Biofabrics also showed better durability and decomposition properties than bioplastics.
A study by the University of Missouri School of Medicine shows that video-based mental health services are providing care to underserved rural children. The research highlights the need for mental health services in these areas, where only 20% of children with behavioral health issues receive treatment.
Scientists found that neutralizing acidic forest soils with calcium boosted tree growth, but also caused a significant increase in nitrogen export to nearby streams. This unexpected result sheds new light on watershed dynamics and highlights the complexity of mitigating acid rain.
A new technology called Maximum Depth Sequencing (MDS) can accurately read the order of DNA code and reveal how bacteria use high-speed evolution to defeat antibiotics. MDS also promises to enable earlier cancer diagnosis by detecting rare genetic changes in human cell populations.
A new study found that Zika warnings significantly increased demand for abortions in Latin America, particularly in countries with restrictive laws. The number of requests for medical abortion through Women on Web, a non-profit organization, nearly doubled in some countries following the health alert.
Concordia University researchers have developed a technique to locate underground leaks with 99.5 percent accuracy using noise loggers. The system helps reduce costs and time involved in repairing leaks, ensuring public health and safety.
A study published in the Journal of Industrial Ecology found that burglary resulted in the largest proportion of total carbon footprint, accounting for 30% of emissions. The criminal justice system also accounted for a significant portion of emissions, highlighting the need to raise awareness about the environmental impact of crime.
A new study found an association between healthy diets and reduced risk of impaired physical function in women as they age. Women who maintained a healthier diet were less likely to develop physical impairments, with higher intakes of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains associated with reduced rates of physical impairment.
Researchers outline recent progress in clinical applications of retinal gene replacement therapy and preclinical advances in gene-specific therapy for photoreceptor diseases. Gene therapy strategies are being developed to treat a broader range of disorders affecting vision, providing new hope for individuals with eye diseases.
A new study from the University of Sydney reveals that nearly half of unexplained sudden cardiac deaths in young people (40%) had a clinically relevant genetic mutation, despite structurally normal hearts. The research also found that limiting strenuous physical activity may not reduce SCD among children and young adults, as most cases...
African Americans perceive depression as a weakness inconsistent with notions of strength in the community, rather than as a health condition. The study highlights the need to consider cultural perspectives in clinical assessment and measurement of depression.
Researchers found that administering a small dose of the anti-inflammatory drug dexamethasone before surgery and avoiding profound anesthesia can help reduce the incidence of POCD. After six months, pre-operative cognitive status was restored in all patients in the study.
Research highlights widespread plastic contamination in oceans, with effects on marine life and human health, prompting policy changes such as bans on microplastics and single-use plastics.
Scientists from Wits University discovered that mammal-like reptiles evolved hair around 240-246 million years ago, assisting their survival. This discovery suggests a possible link between the evolution of hair and whiskers with the development of mammals.
A team of Engineers and Physicists from the University of Exeter has discovered that GraphExeter can substantially improve the effectiveness of large, flat, flexible lighting. Using GraphExeter, they increased the brightness of flexible lights by up to almost 50% and made them 30% more efficient than existing examples.
Researchers found that metal ions released by cobalt-chromium-molybdenum alloys impair mesenchymal stromal cells' ability to differentiate into osteoblasts. This can lead to premature bone loss and revision surgery. The study's findings highlight the need for improved implant design and composition to optimize patient safety.
A study published in JAMA Cardiology found that black individuals with atrial fibrillation have a significantly increased risk of stroke, heart failure, coronary heart disease (CHD), and all-cause mortality compared to white individuals. The rate differences for these outcomes were found to be approximately 1.5- to 2.0-fold greater in ...
Researchers have uncovered signatures of historical DNA mixing events in sub-Saharan Africa, shaping the continent's recent genetic history. The study provides insights into admixture events that may contribute to non-communicable and infectious diseases like malaria.
Researchers discovered evidence of the world's oldest known fungus gardens within fossil termite nests from the Great Rift Valley of Africa, dating back approximately 25 million years. This finding pushes back the beginning of the termite-fungus symbiotic relationship to at least 31 million years ago.
Researchers found that some older adults, known as 'adapters,' live longer and healthier lives despite higher disease burdens. These individuals exhibit high vigor levels and a unique coping mechanism that enables them to thrive.
Brendan Lee receives 2016 Curt Stern Award for his groundbreaking work on human inborn errors of metabolism and structural birth defects of the skeleton. The award recognizes his significant scientific contributions over the past decade, including identifying genetic causes of chrondrodysplasia and Marfan syndrome.
A team of astronomers using ALMA observed a supermassive black hole at the center of galaxy Abell 2597 feeding on chaotic downpour of cold, clumpy clouds. The discovery provides evidence for 'cold, chaotic accretion', a process that challenges traditional models of how black holes grow.
A study from the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism found that nonmedical prescription opioid use more than doubled among US adults from 2001-2002 to 2012-2013, affecting nearly 10 million Americans. This increase is linked to a substantial rise in opioid use disorder, with symptoms such as tolerance, withdrawal, and im...
A 94-million-year-old climate event led to a decline in essential trace metals, affecting ocean life and potentially causing larger dead zones. This ancient shift may hold insights into future climate change scenarios.
A landmark study has identified five new potential genes linked to bowel cancer, while also confirming the role of major existing genes in increasing risk. The research suggests that minor DNA variations play a significant role in inherited risk and environmental factors, with potential implications for prevention and treatment.
The US National Science Foundation has awarded five early-concept grants to investigate new approaches in STEM learning and innovation through making. The projects aim to create more accessible and engaging maker programs for diverse youth populations.
Research reveals significant disparities in cardiac arrest care between men and women, resulting in higher mortality rates for women. Women tend to receive fewer life-saving procedures, such as angioplasty and therapeutic hypothermia, due to various factors including age, health status, and underlying conditions.
Researchers found that low doses of paclitaxel, a widely used breast cancer treatment, can actually increase cancer spread to the liver. This contradicts previous strategies of lowering dosage to reduce toxic side effects.
NASA's Global Precipitation Measurement mission tracked Tropical Storm Danielle as it made landfall north of Tuxpan, Mexico. Heavy rainfall rates were measured at moderate to heavy levels, with some areas experiencing precipitation at rates over 41 mm/h, indicating a rapid weakening of the storm.
Researchers found that people with probable dementia who had not been diagnosed were more likely to engage in potentially dangerous activities. Healthcare practitioners can better address safety concerns by asking older adults about their activities.
The Coordinating Center for Genetics and Genomics of Alzheimer's Disease will aggregate and analyze large data sets to identify genetic risk factors and potential therapeutic targets. This effort aims to accelerate progress in solving the devastating disease.
Researchers at Case Western Reserve University have developed a technique to produce long chain molecules with trefoil-like shapes, which could lead to more stable protein structures and high-value polymers. The National Science Foundation has awarded a three-year grant to scale up the production of knotted polymers.
New research reveals that singlet oxygen plays a crucial role in triggering coral bleaching by expelling algae from coral tissue. The findings may help protect reefs and support marine species dependent on them.
A study published in JAMA Cardiology found that blacks with atrial fibrillation have nearly double the risk of adverse outcomes compared to whites. The study analyzed data from the Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities (ARIC) Study and found significant racial differences in outcomes related to AFib.
Researchers found that non-profit CEOs with higher 'warmth' scores tended to have lower total revenue and funding from private sources. In contrast, for-profit CEOs who appear more powerful are often associated with greater success in the corporate world.
A study found that most older adults (72%) are up-to-date with screening, but timely follow-up rates vary by age and comorbidity. The research emphasizes the need for personalized risk assessment tools to improve screening completion and follow-up among this vulnerable population.
Researchers observed wild boars and warthogs aligning themselves along the magnetic north-south axis, with a slight preference for east. The animals' internal compass helps them navigate while foraging for food and inhabiting new areas.
Children with epilepsy experience significant long-term socioeconomic consequences, including higher healthcare costs. The study found that people with epilepsy are unable to catch up with their peers in overall health, education, and social status.
The Dark Bordered Beauty moth is facing a severe decline due to habitat loss caused by the removal of Creeping Willow plants, which are essential for its caterpillars. Conservation efforts aim to boost Creeping Willow populations and modify grazing regimes to secure the moth's long-term future in England.
A novel combination of sorafenib and pemetrexed showed promise in a phase 1 clinical trial, with 61% of patients experiencing tumor growth delay. The therapy was particularly active in breast cancer patients, with one complete response and multiple partial responses.
Scientists discover that daily doses of pre-harvest UV-C light increase stilbenoid production in grapes, offering a natural method to prevent pathogens and reduce synthetic pesticide use. This approach shows a significant 86-fold increase in stilbenoid concentrations, resulting in higher disease resistance.
Researchers at University of Innsbruck successfully simulated lattice gauge theories and particle-antiparticle pairs using a quantum computer. This breakthrough paves the way for studying complex aspects of the Standard Model, complementing high-energy physics experiments.
Astronomers have used X-ray reverberation mapping to map the flow of gas near a newly awakened black hole for the first time. The study provides insights into the 'killer' black hole's hidden structures, revealing high-energy X-rays originate from a compact region near the black hole.
A new study suggests that consuming walnuts and other whole foods as part of a healthy diet may help maintain independence in aging women. Higher intake of fruits, vegetables, and omega-3 fatty acids from walnuts was associated with reduced rates of physical impairment.
A recent meta-analysis in Scientific Reports supports the link between omega-3s and reduced mortality. The analysis showed a 9% reduced risk of all-cause death associated with high versus low omega-3 intake.
Despite familiarity with writing standards, teachers report shortcomings and lack of training in implementing them, as well as concerns over state writing tests. The study highlights the need for educators and policymakers to prioritize attention to writing practices.
Researchers analyzed nearly three decades of air samples from Alaska's North Slope and found little change in long-term methane emissions. The findings suggest that processes regulating methane emissions need more study, as the Arctic warms faster than other regions.
Researchers developed mini-gut organoids from cystic fibrosis patient cells to screen drugs and personalize treatment. The mini-guts responded to CFTR-targeting therapies in vitro, correlating with clinical trial data and paving the way for tailored treatments.
Researchers found that negative feedback loops act as a shock absorber to buffer damage from mutations, allowing genes to mutate without compromising function. This mechanism may foster long-term adaptation while reducing immediate fitness risk, with implications for evolution and cancer treatment.
Researchers found that mass treatment of humans and pigs with chemotherapy and vaccination can interrupt the transmission of Taenia solium infection. The study was conducted in Peru's Tumbes Province, where the disease is highly endemic.
Researchers developed a way to predict glass compositions and their properties, enabling faster development of new products such as lighter windows for more fuel-efficient cars. The 'glass genome' model uses computer simulations to explore possible combinations of materials, optimizing them for industrial production.
States with robust prescription drug monitoring programs saw a significant reduction in opioid-related overdose deaths, with an average of 1.55 fewer deaths per 100,000 population compared to states without such programs. Implementing these programs could prevent over 600 additional overdose deaths nationwide.
A study at IRB Barcelona discovered that Mitofusin 2 is required to preserve healthy muscles in mice, with its loss associated with muscle wastage and sarcopenia. The protein could serve as a therapeutic target to ameliorate sarcopenia in the elderly.
Researchers found that impulsive children raised in non-coercive environments tend to drink less alcohol than their peers, as they thrive under proper care and attention. High impulsivity at age 6 was associated with lower alcohol use at age 15 when maternal coercive practices were infrequent.
Researchers found that glucosamine plays a critical role in early embryonic development, helping embryos proliferate normally. This could aid in avoiding birth defects in diabetic pregnancies and improving future stem-cell treatments. Glucosamine is also essential for embryonic cells to grow and develop.
Researchers discovered that methylation of RNA can strengthen memory formation by reducing the brain's ability to remove methyl groups. This process may have significant implications for treating memory-related disorders such as post-traumatic stress disorder or phobia.
A recent study published in BJU International found that smoking can cause DNA damage in sperm, leading to decreased fertility. The research included 20 non-smokers and 20 smokers and analyzed protein alterations in their sperm. Sperm with altered DNA may lead to health problems in offspring.
Researchers aim to identify genetic risk and prevention factors for Alzheimer's disease by analyzing genomic sequence data from thousands of individuals. The new center will provide a common database for critical information sharing and interpretation, enabling progress against the insidious disease.
A recent study reveals that red pigmented snow algae blooms in the Arctic significantly reduce albedo, leading to a runaway effect of accelerated melting. The findings suggest a universal model for algal-albedo interaction and quantify additional melting caused by algal blooms, shedding new light on climate change impacts.
A new study published in Science Translational Medicine found that the experimental drug CX546 counters the negative effects of general anesthesia on nerve signaling and learning ability in young mice. This research holds promise for preventing long-term neurocognitive deficits in children who undergo multiple surgeries requiring anest...
Researchers found that blocking acetylcholine in genetically modified mice caused Alzheimer's-like pathology, highlighting the importance of this neurotransmitter for brain health. The study suggests that targeting one of the affected messenger RNA pathways may lead to a reversal of dementia progression.
A UCLA-led study estimates that nearly 28,500 deaths in the US could be prevented annually through use of a new FDA-approved class of cardiovascular medication. The therapy helps reduce mortality in patients diagnosed with heart failure and reduced ejection fraction by enhancing protective hormonal systems.
Researchers found that lizard tails evolved differently based on the type of predator, with blue and UV light reflectance varying in communities with weasel or snake predators. A cryptic brown tail also emerged in island populations where birds are the primary predators.