Researchers discovered a new species of brittle star, Teleosaster creasyi, preserved in a 275-million-year-old fossilized meadow in Western Australia. The species shows evidence of evolution before the Permian-Triassic extinction event, which wiped out over 90% of marine life.
Scientists at KAUST have discovered that two-dimensional layers of perovskite material can achieve higher purity levels than their three-dimensional counterparts. This breakthrough could lead to more efficient and cost-effective solar cells.
Experiments suggest a significant amount of zinc in the Earth's core, contradicting previous theories. This implies a revised formation process and potential changes to the estimated Earth composition, including its core.
A University of Kansas researcher found that bumper stickers can facilitate social communication on highways, with drivers using labeling, affective, and puzzle modes to interpret messages. The use of mass-customized stickers has led to a shift towards more specific and unique messages, requiring new interpretive orientations.
A study by University of Kansas researcher Andrea Gómez Cervantes explores the consequences of racial profiling on Latino immigrants and their family members. Indigenous-Latino immigrants face heightened risks of detention, institutional violence, and social exclusion due to their race and ethnicity.
Researchers found that first-time buyers care only about finding trustworthy sellers, with trust remaining their primary concern. The core group of repeat buyers and sellers is harder to shut down, and disrupting it may be the best way to interrupt the cycle.
New research from the University of Illinois finds that women's depression increases when they become primary breadwinners, while men's mental health improves when they take on this role. Conversely, mothers who exit the workforce to care for children experience no decline in psychological well-being.
A recent study found that consuming almonds regularly can improve HDL cholesterol levels and function in people with elevated LDL cholesterol. The almond diet resulted in a 19% increase in large HDL particles and improved HDL function by 6.4%, suggesting potential benefits for heart health.
Researchers mapped evolutionary turning points that transformed a fungus with tens of thousands of mating types to one with only two. They found that translocations brought together separate chunks of sex-determining genes onto a single chromosome, mimicking the human X or Y chromosome.
Global warming is expected to impact subtropical anticyclones differently in the Northern and Southern Hemispheres. In the North, the subtropical anticyclone over the South Atlantic will weaken, while those over the North Pacific and South Pacific will strengthen.
A new AI-powered traffic management system called SimplifAI will be tested in Manchester, aiming to reduce congestion and improve air quality. The system, developed by Professor Lee McCluskey and his team, can analyze data and devise complex strategies in a fraction of the time required by human operators.
Researchers at Carnegie Mellon University found that people with supportive spouses are more likely to take on potentially rewarding challenges, leading to personal growth and happiness. Those who experienced a supportive relationship had better psychological well-being and relationship functioning months later.
Researchers Kartik Chandran and Jonathan Lai will develop broadly active monoclonal antibody therapies for Ebola and extend the strategy to Marburg virus. They will also investigate how hantaviruses enter the human body.
A new study from USC Annenberg reveals that TV characters have the power to influence attitudes toward transgender people and policy issues. Viewers who saw a June 2015 episode of Royal Pains featuring a portrayal of a transgender teen had more positive attitudes toward both transgender people and related policies.
The new sensor array-based instrument uses superconducting quantum interference to detect small amounts of energy with improved sensitivity and bandwidth. This advancement enables accurate tracking of nuclear materials, such as plutonium isotopes, and improves astronomical studies of cosmic microwave background radiation.
A solar filament rose from the surface of the Sun but collapsed due to invisible magnetic forces, preventing an eruption. Scientists used data from multiple NASA observatories and ground-based telescopes to track the event and develop a model that explains how the Sun's magnetic landscape terminates eruptions.
Two studies in The Lancet and The Lancet Global Health journals found that secure storage has no impact on rates of self-poisoning or suicide, and that national bans are the most effective way to reduce pesticide-related suicides. Improved storage measures were not found to reduce self-poisoning rates.
The ISS-CREAM mission will study cosmic rays at energies above 1 billion electron volts, shedding light on their origins and properties. The experiment aims to measure the highest-energy particles yet detected in space, providing unparalleled insights into the interstellar neighborhood.
A team of researchers developed a machine-learning algorithm to identify counterfeit products by analyzing microscopic characteristics. The system achieved an accuracy rate of over 98%, enabling non-invasive verification of product authenticity.
Researchers at Michigan Technological University have developed new probes that can detect low pH in living cells without causing photobleaching. The probes are coated with a simple sugar found in fruits and emit light in two different ways, making them highly sensitive to pH and gentle on cells.
The ISS-CREAM experiment aims to study the origin and diversity of cosmic rays, potentially revealing new details about dark matter. By detecting primary particles, ISS-CREAM will extend measurements to the highest energies possible and increase exposure by an order of magnitude.
A recent study found that the opioid crisis has led to a significant increase in ICU admissions and deaths in US hospitals, with an estimated nearly double increase in deaths from opioid overdoses. The study also revealed that the cost of caring for these patients increased significantly during this period.
Two types of testicular macrophages have been identified, one found in interstitial spaces and another on the surface of seminiferous tubules. These macrophages prevent other immune system agents from entering the testes by releasing specific molecules.
Tropical Storm 14W formed over Wake Island, taking a unique comma shape with thunderstorms surrounding its center. The storm is expected to intensify and turn north before becoming extratropical.
A recent survey reveals that air pollution has a significant impact on bird health, reproductive success, and diversity. Only two field studies have been conducted since 1950 on the topic, highlighting the need for further research.
Researchers will investigate how loss of protective barrier protein TCPTP contributes to IBD and identify novel molecular pathways. They aim to correct intestinal barrier defects using JAK signaling pathway inhibitors, which are being tested in clinical trials.
NASA provided three different views of former Hurricane Franklin, revealing powerful storms and heavy rainfall before it dissipated. The Global Precipitation Measurement mission detected intense feeder bands on the western side of the tropical storm dropping rain at rates over 2.8 inches per hour.
Women diagnosed with cancer experience diverse sexual health concerns that change over time and stages of cancer. Their unique values, goals, and needs must be addressed during treatment and survivorship.
The study found that specially designed plastic films with N-halamines can prevent bacterial contamination by killing bacteria on contact. The plastic films work by releasing chlorine to sanitize surfaces, making them ideal for use in food processing operations and hospital environments.
Researchers found that ant species with closely related genetic backgrounds can have significantly different chemical profiles, which can change faster than other traits during evolution. Climate also influences the composition of these profiles, with species from humid regions having distinct hydrocarbon patterns.
Researchers at Lund University discovered that jackdaws minimize energy consumption when flapping their wings by creating multiple small vortices. This unique phenomenon could lead to more efficient flight in birds and potentially influence aircraft design.
Researchers at Monash University identified a crucial part of PTPN2's role in early T-cell development, which can contribute to the development of autoimmune disease. Decreased levels of this enzyme lead to pro-inflammatory T-cells that damage body tissues.
A new study found that higher income individuals engage in more moderate to vigorous intensity physical activity on fewer days, known as the 'weekend warrior' effect, while spending more time in sedentary pursuits. The study suggests tailoring physical activity messages to reflect the constraints of both low and high income individuals.
A research team at Lund University has discovered that gene expression in normal tissue varies depending on the location within the kidney. This variation affects the accuracy of comparisons between tumour cells and healthy tissue, leading to a better understanding of kidney cancer subtypes.
Research suggests a connection between psoriasis and psychiatric illnesses, with inflammation being a key underlying factor. Psoriasis patients are at higher risk of anxiety, depression, and suicidal thoughts due to the debilitating nature of their condition.
Hydrogeologist David Boutt has been named the Birdsall-Dreiss Distinguished Lecturer for 2018 by the Geological Society of America's Hydrogeology Division. He will give a 12-month national and international speaking tour, including stops in Asia, Europe, and South America.
A randomized trial in Sri Lanka found that secure storage of pesticides had no impact on rates of self-poisoning or suicide. A review of global policies concluded that bans are the most effective way to reduce pesticide-related suicides. Secure storage is not a sufficient solution to this public health problem.
A NJIT researcher is leading a global ham radio experiment to study the effects of the solar eclipse on Earth's ionosphere. He will contact a network of ham radio operators worldwide to test their high frequency signals and measure the eclipse's impact.
Researchers are developing software called ThermalTracker to automatically categorize birds and bats in thermal video. The system can help developers and regulators make informed decisions about siting and operating offshore wind projects, reducing uncertainty about potential impacts on wildlife.
A recent study found that imagining an action between two objects and its potential consequence can improve memory performance. Older adults who learned to use this strategy showed significant improvements, suggesting a promising approach for personalized memory rehabilitation.
Researchers at the University of Edinburgh used computer simulations to predict chemical compounds in Neptune's mantle, finding ammonia hemihydrate as a likely component. The discovery sheds light on the extreme conditions and chemistry of ice giants, influencing future studies.
Scientists have discovered a specific type of immune regulatory cell, T follicular regulatory cells (Tfr), in patients with Sjögren syndrome, an autoimmune disease. Blood Tfr cells are immature and unable to suppress antibody production, but their levels increase in response to flu vaccine exposure.
Researchers at Allina Health have found robotic-assisted surgery to be effective and safe for a select group of patients undergoing transhiatal esophagectomy. The study, which analyzed data from 100 patients, highlights the benefits of robotic technology in improving surgical outcomes.
Scientists at the University of Vienna and Tel Aviv have conducted the first experiment testing standard quantum theory with massive molecules, placing upper bounds on higher-order interference. The researchers used a nanofabricated mask to create a diffraction pattern that followed expectations of standard quantum mechanics.
Researchers at Stanford University have discovered two semiconductors that can form high-quality insulators when exposed to oxygen, a trait shared by silicon but not other semiconductors. The new materials can be shrunk to atomic thinness and require less energy than silicon circuits, making them ideal for future devices.
A new study reveals a 34% increase in overdose-related ICU admissions between 2009 and 2015, with average cost of care rising by 58%. The opioid epidemic has made patients sicker and killed more people despite intensive care, researchers say.
Researchers at Utah State University have developed a novel design for an inflatable speedboat that utilizes elastic materials to absorb wave energy and reduce the impact on passengers. The study reveals unique differences in water-impact behavior between rigid and elastic bodies.
A USC-led study published in PNAS has revealed a molecular 'how to' guide for driving individual skin cells to self-organize into organoids that can produce hair. The researchers successfully stimulated adult organoids to continue their development and produce 40% more hair than newborn organoids.
Scientists have uncovered the secret behind goldfish's remarkable ability to produce alcohol as a way of surviving harsh winters. The fish convert anaerobically produced lactic acid into ethanol, allowing them to avoid dangerous build-ups in their bodies.
Temple University Hospital is introducing an endoscopic keyhole craniotomy approach for treating tegmen dehiscence and temporal encephalocele, two rare conditions affecting the skull. This innovative method reduces skin incision size, retraction on the temporal lobe, and risk of brain injury.
A new study from the University of Waterloo found that reducing algae-causing nutrients in agricultural runoff can take up to 30-40 years to have a desired impact. Despite decreasing nutrient inputs, water quality has been slow to respond, with some watersheds taking decades to see significant improvements.
A new study by Drexel University found that opioid users are 50% more likely to receive treatment and have it paid for by insurance under Obamacare. The study analyzed data from the National Survey on Drug Use and Health, showing a significant increase in access to care and insurance coverage since the ACA's implementation.
A study by Duke University researchers found that one-third of insured cancer patients pay more out-of-pocket than expected, despite health coverage. This 'financial toxicity' can lead to decreased treatment adherence and worsen mental and physical state.
Researchers are developing VR applications to enhance spacecraft design, analysis, and mission planning. These projects utilize augmented reality to integrate camera views and telemetry data in one location, allowing technicians to operate robotic arms more efficiently.
A new Yale-led study reveals that people with schizophrenia and other psychotic illnesses exhibit altered brain activity when induced to hallucinate. The study suggests that the ability to learn these hallucinations are not real may help identify those in need of psychiatric treatment.
Researchers used algae modeling to study competing ideologies and their survival rates. They found that a balance between offensive and defensive strategies is key, with a 50-50 mix being the most effective.
Research reveals that a minority of users' tweets account for the majority of influence, with opinion leaders forming a virtual community that shapes information spread. The study suggests targeting this community for effective advertising on social media platforms like Twitter.
Researchers call for consistent, robust standards for developing meta-analyses due to the dramatic increase in published studies. The American Heart Association recommends improving quality through technical guidelines and emphasizing the need for statistical expertise and clear justifications.
A study by University of Wisconsin-Madison researchers found a public divided on the use of human genome editing, with some supporting its therapeutic applications and others opposing enhancement. However, most respondents agreed that conversations about the technology are necessary to address its moral and regulatory implications.
A study by Vienna University of Technology reveals that climate change has a real impact on flood events in some regions, causing them to shift in timing. The magnitude of the flood does not provide enough information to detect the impact of climate change, whereas the timing provides valuable insights into its effects.