A breakthrough in sequencing the white Guinea yam genome has opened up possibilities for improving the staple crop's yields, sustainability, and disease resistance. This achievement will help farmers increase productivity and transform yams from a neglected 'orphan' crop to a more domesticated and economically viable food source.
Laura Vandenberg, a leading expert on endocrine disrupting chemicals and their impact on human health, has been named one of CHE's '20 Pioneers Under 40 in Environmental Public Health'. Her groundbreaking research informs prevention-focused behaviors and policies to protect public health.
The Pierre Auger Collaboration reports that cosmic rays with energies a million times greater than the protons accelerated in the Large Hadron Collider come from much further away. The study discovered an anisotropy in the arrival directions of over 30,000 cosmic particles, indicating an extragalactic origin.
The University of Portsmouth's AIR Network aims to address the significant contributor to respiratory and cardiovascular disease in low-resource settings. By engaging with local communities through arts, theatre, and other methods, researchers will explore co-creating viable interventions to reduce exposure to air pollution.
A new study by USC ISI uses Twitter bots to spread positive messages, finding that information becomes viral when people are exposed multiple times. The researchers' findings suggest a cumulative reinforcement effect, where repeated exposure increases the likelihood of adopting an idea.
New study reveals technical differences between Italian and Greek textiles, suggesting distinct cultural influences. Advanced analysis of preserved textiles provides insights into raw materials, weaving techniques, and thread counts.
Researchers identified a new mechanism for how spinal cord injury weakens the immune system, leading to increased susceptibility to pneumonia. Disrupting nerve fibers to the adrenal glands may be a promising treatment strategy to prevent or reduce infections.
A study published in Party Politics found that 97% of voters were glad they participated, while 60% of non-voters regretted not voting. People who feel morally duty-bound to vote and those interested in politics are more likely to be satisfied with their decision.
Researchers found that a norm of solo reciprocity is insufficient to maintain cooperation, but can work in solidarity with unconditional cooperators. A society with solidarity between norms is more cooperative than one with solo reciprocity, according to the study.
Researchers at UCI have identified an important aspect of the brain's navigational system, revealing how rodents process and reactivate spatial information. This new knowledge has high accuracy predictions for animal speed and direction.
Researchers at MIT discovered that imperfections in metal oxide materials can alter their properties, enabling new types of low-energy computer memory and processing devices. The findings provide a theoretical framework to understand the effects of defects on material stability and structure under strong electric fields.
Researchers have found that jellyfish, like humans, enter a state of reduced activity at night and exhibit an increased sleep drive when deprived of sleep. This discovery suggests that sleep is an ancient behavior, largely untouched by evolution.
Researchers at ETH Zurich developed a new technique using magnetic resonance imaging to study granular systems, enabling real-time imaging and measurement of particle velocities. This breakthrough has potential applications in fields such as carbon capture and could lead to higher efficiency and energy savings.
A recent study published in Biological Psychiatry has found a link between brain inflammation and suicidal thinking in patients with major depressive disorder. Researchers at the University of Manchester discovered increased levels of microglial activation in brains of living patients with MDD who were experiencing suicidal thoughts.
A study by Northeastern University expert Marco Ajelli found that people who spend less time outdoors are less likely to contract the Zika virus. However, a small group of people who spend large amounts of time outdoors are at high risk for infection and can spread the disease quickly.
The Pierre Auger Collaboration has discovered an anisotropy in the arrival directions of cosmic rays above 8 × 10^18 eV, indicating extragalactic origin. This discovery sheds light on the nature of cosmic rays and their possible sources, with further studies underway to pinpoint the locations.
Scientists have discovered 74 new species of 'furnace ants' in Australia, including a bizarre species with protruding eyes. The discovery reveals an incredible diversity within the Melophorus genus, which is estimated to have arisen around 35 million years ago.
Researchers analyze data from over 4,000 cancer patients and discover that changes in alternative splicing lead to a loss of functional protein domains, affecting gene function in a manner similar to genetic mutations. This study reveals the potential oncogenic power of these changes, enabling healthy cells to become cancerous.
A study of 130,000 people in 17 countries found that 30 minutes of physical activity five days a week can prevent one in 12 deaths and one in 20 cases of cardiovascular disease. Higher levels of physical activity are associated with even lower risks.
Research by University of Georgia finds that highly educated non-executive employees generate and review accounting reports, catching errors or fraud more often than auditors and regulators. This improves a firm's external financial reporting accuracy and reduces manipulation in SEC filings.
Researchers discovered that bladderwort traps suck in prey like water fleas at incredible speeds, decelerating them before trapping. Comparative analyses of different species revealed unique trap entrance structures and movement patterns adapted to various habitats.
A new chip etched with fluid channels sends blood samples through a hydrodynamic maze to separate out rare circulating cancer cells into a relatively clean stream for analysis. The labyrinth chip is already in use in a breast cancer clinical trial, enabling doctors to plan customized treatments and monitor genetic changes.
A large international study found that any physical activity can prevent heart disease and death, with 38% of participants meeting the 150 minutes a week guideline through activities like commuting or household chores. The study showed significant benefits from incorporating physical activity into daily life, regardless of intensity.
A new study reveals that preterm children have more medical sleep problems, such as restlessness and breathing issues, compared to full-term children. However, they are more likely to fall asleep on their own without assistance.
Researchers from UC San Diego showcase self-folding robots, robotic endoscopes, and improved computer vision techniques to enhance human-robot collaboration. The conference focuses on developing friendly robots that can work effectively with humans in various domains.
Scientists at UC San Diego uncover a previously unknown link between non-coding DNA regions and the formation of immune cells. The discovery reveals a precise mechanism for the pairing of promoter and enhancer elements, which brings them into close proximity to initiate immune cell development.
Researchers found that tree species with drought tolerance traits and soil amendments like rice hulls and hydrogel improved seedling survival. The study provides a general approach to screen native tree species for restoration, offering hope for restoring tropical dry forests.
Researchers found utilizing local artists' images and dialects helped address misperceptions about Ebola treatment, involving trusted messengers for two-way communication. The study's evidence-based approach can inform message development and implementation during public health emergencies.
Researchers computationally designed a new, metastable, and lightweight form of aluminum with a density of 0.61 gram per cubic centimeter, making it lighter than water. This discovery opens up potential applications in spaceflight, medicine, wiring, and more fuel-efficient automotive parts.
A study found a linear relationship between air pollution levels and the risk of experiencing kidney function decline and developing kidney disease or failure. The results suggest that particulate matter above the EPA's recommended limit is associated with new cases of chronic kidney disease (CKD) and end-stage renal disease (ESRD).
Researchers at McGill University have discovered that mitochondria play a key role in preventing cells from dying when nutrients are scarce. The findings suggest that targeting the mTOR pathway could lead to the development of new cancer therapies that promote cell death.
Researchers observed reduced pulsing activity at night and delayed responses to stimulation in the upside-down jellyfish Cassiopea. The findings suggest that jellyfish do indeed sleep, but the study also raises more questions about the origin of sleep and its relationship with neural systems.
Two species of pumpkin toadlets have been found to be deaf to their own calls, a phenomenon that persists even after the target audience has lost the ability to detect it. This is due to the vestigial high-frequency hearing part in their ears, which may have been replaced by visual communication.
A Chinese study found very low rates of blood glucose monitoring among nearly 19,000 patients with type 2 diabetes before and after initiating basal insulin treatment. The data showed an increase in mean SMBG frequency after 6 months, but the percentage of patients who never monitored their blood glucose remained high.
Researchers identify patterns of cell-to-cell communication as the core feature that makes possible rigorous distinctions among neuron types. The study points to 'core genetic recipe' for constructing diverse nerve cells, resolving long-standing debates about neuronal classification.
The Baltimore Ecosystem Study is integrating local data into the city's high school chemistry curriculum, aligning with Next Generation Science Standards and incorporating Earth science concepts. The initiative aims to make chemistry more relevant and engaging for students by exploring local environmental concerns.
A new study found that stronger alcohol policies, including taxes and sales restrictions, can reduce the likelihood of alcohol involvement among homicide victims. This policy change resulted in a 1% reduction in likelihood of alcohol involvement for every 1% increase in policy restrictiveness.
The study found that modifying diet or adding moderate exercise can improve chemotherapy efficacy independent of weight loss. Obesity is on the rise in pediatric cancer patients, with lower survival rates and higher relapse rates compared to non-obese patients.
A study found that babies who watched an adult struggle before succeeding tried harder at their own difficult task compared to those who saw an adult succeed effortlessly. The researchers also discovered that direct interactions made a difference in how hard the babies tried.
Researchers have developed a novel coating that prevents side-reactions and promotes uniform lithium deposition, leading to improved battery performance. The new indium-lithium hybrid electrodes showed stability over 250 cycles with high capacity retention.
A new study suggests that Palau's reefs can be better maintained by shifting seafood consumption to open water fish. The health of reefs is critical for local communities' culture, food security and livelihoods. Researchers recommend a 70% reduction in reef fish consumption to mitigate climate change impacts.
The Global Aerospace Corporation has developed a Pluto lander concept that uses drag from the ultra-thin atmosphere to decelerate and gently land on the surface of Pluto. The lander-hopper can then hop around the surface, investigating surface features and performing science measurements.
Researchers have developed a better understanding of how to improve the production of beta cells, the cells responsible for insulin regulation in diabetics. The study shows that genes NXK6.1 and MNX1 play a crucial role in the development of beta cells.
Historical analysis reveals significant changes in liberal foreign policy views from the 19th century to the present day. Modern liberals differ from their predecessors in rejecting active foreign policy and alliances, instead focusing on national interests and constitutional reforms.
A new study found that routine and rapid hepatitis C virus testing among young adults who use injection drugs significantly improves life expectancy. The test results are available on the same day as the sample is drawn, increasing the quality of life for this patient population.
Researchers investigate the effects of climate change on plant-pollinator interactions, exploring new techniques for measuring floral cues, rewards, and pollinator behavior. Studies reveal diverse tactics being used to deepen understanding of these complex relationships in a changing environment.
Researchers have created a low-cost, DIY kit for growing orchids from seed, which can lead to the preservation of endangered species and efficient seed conservation. The kit's high humidity levels and symbiotic mycorrhizal fungi facilitate germination and growth.
Researchers at University of California San Diego School of Medicine found exosomes from inflamed adipose tissue macrophages cause metabolic derangements of diabetes. Exosomes carry microRNA that inhibits key proteins, leading to insulin resistance.
Gallium selenide, a 2D semiconductor, loses electrical conductivity in air due to oxidation, hindering its application in nanoelectronic devices. Encapsulating GaSe in vacuum-manufactured devices with protective layers can maintain its optoelectronic properties.
Researchers at Children's Hospital Los Angeles identified a molecular pathway in an immune cell called a tumor-associated macrophage that supports neuroblastoma, a pediatric cancer. Targeting the STAT3 pathway with a clinically available drug may be a promising approach to improve outcomes for children with high-risk neuroblastoma.
Researchers at Brigham Young University have developed a nano composite smartfoam that measures the impact of hits via electrical signals, collecting data in real time to determine impact severity and location. The technology has shown 90% accuracy in measuring concussion risks, revolutionizing football safety protocols.
A new study published in PLOS Biology found that sexual touch can contribute substantially to the acceleration of puberty in rats. The researchers observed that young female rats housed with male rats experienced an expansion of their genital cortex, a finding that was not seen in females housed with other females or males separated by...
A new systematic review of 32 clinical trials found low to medium efficacy in reducing drinking for these medications, but with high risk of bias. Researchers call for better studies to determine the effectiveness of these treatments.
A new IUPUI study found that juveniles who perceive police injustice are more likely to engage in aggressive behavior, particularly those who justify immoral actions. Intervention programs addressing perceptions of police injustice and moral disengagement may help reduce aggression among youth involved in the juvenile justice system.
Researchers aim to unravel the underlying physical mechanisms driving SST warming in the Yellow Sea and East China Sea. Despite various studies, a consensus on the dominant mechanism remains elusive due to limited data and conflicting explanations.
New research models guard cells using 3D simulation, discovering three essential ingredients for effective gas exchange. The findings suggest that guard cells' elasticity, turgor pressure, and geometry are crucial for optimal performance.
A comprehensive study from Florida State University found no evidence that personality changes occur before the onset of mild cognitive impairment or dementia. Researchers analyzed data from over 2,000 individuals and discovered that personality traits remained stable even in the years leading up to clinical diagnosis.
Two studies of green algae reveal details about their ability to concentrate carbon dioxide from the air. Researchers found that the pyrenoid, a key organelle in photosynthesis, behaves like a liquid droplet that can dissolve and condense during cell division.
Researchers discovered intricate finger-like structures with suckers on the tip of the saliva tube, a previously unknown feature. This finding adds to our understanding of the African tsetse fly's unique feeding mechanism and its role in spreading human sleeping sickness.
The Urban Sanitation Challenge funds five projects that aim to scale up innovative approaches to urban sanitation. Five projects funded under the new challenge include an affordable plastic toilet line that is being used in 14 countries, with more than 1.2 million toilets installed and improving the lives of 6 million people.