New research shows that decades-old logging restrictions have failed to reverse population declines of spotted owls in US national forests due to a 'tree deficit', requiring longer-term restoration efforts. The study found stable owl populations in nearby national parks with intact habitats.
The team built larger objects, including gears for nanomotors and microtubes with sizes comparable to bacteria. They also constructed closed cage structures with discrete-size cages attaining molecular weights and sizes comparable to viruses and small cell organelles.
Researchers have introduced polyproline as an effective cryoprotectant for monolayers of cells, doubling cell recovery after freezing compared to dimethyl sulfoxide. The proline/polyproline combination minimizes solvent exposure and retains cell functions.
A new study found that normothermic machine perfusion can evaluate kidney quality and suitability for transplantation. Four out of five kidneys assessed by the technique functioned immediately after transplantation.
A new study by NYU Langone Health finds that a healthcare center in India has developed a sustainable cataract surgery model, emitting 96% less carbon than the UK while producing comparable health outcomes. The model's key practices include shorter surgery durations, better re-use of surgical materials, and more efficient sterilization.
The UMass Lowell team is developing a new electronic monitoring system, BEACON, that uses smartphones and sensor technology to promote and reward constructive behaviors among parolees. The system aims to provide positive support to help them avoid violations and recidivism.
The clarinet's unique sound in early New Orleans jazz is attributed to its size, shape, reed, and mouthpiece. Michael G. White's research aims to refine this tone on the Boehm system clarinet, exploring factors such as internal bore shape, fingerings, and player embouchure.
A US Army Research Laboratory researcher has won a best paper award at an internet conference in Thailand for his work on NDN fuzzy interest forwarding. The technique enables discovery and retrieval of data using approximate knowledge of the data namespace, alleviating the need for exacting name matching.
Researchers have discovered two colossal galaxies from the early universe, each containing around 273 billion suns' worth of gas and dust. The combined mass of these galaxies is nearly as large as physically possible at that time, suggesting a vast amount of dark matter surrounding them.
A new bioelectronic 'nose' has been developed to detect food spoilage by sensing the presence of cadaverine, a compound responsible for the stench of rotting bodies. The detector, which uses nanodiscs and carbon nanotube transistors, is selective and sensitive for cadaverine at low levels, enabling early detection of food spoilage.
Researchers at NUS Cancer Science Institute discovered a molecular pathway in which TIP60 inhibits cancer cell growth by targeting telomerase. This finding offers a new approach to treating various types of cancer triggered by high telomerase levels.
Researchers propose a new scenario for ancient clay mineral formation on Mars, suggesting clays formed during the planet's creation from molten magma. The steamy atmosphere created by the magma ocean could have converted vast swaths of the surface to clay, leading to the widespread distribution seen today.
Recent breakthroughs aim to help those struggling with opioid use disorders by providing interim treatments and safer prescription options. Interim therapies can get people medication sooner, reducing the risk of overdose and infection, while safer opioids may mitigate respiratory suppression and addiction.
A recent study from North Carolina State University found that a 45-minute online sexual health program improved the ability of teen girls to communicate effectively about safe sex. The intervention, called Health Education and Relationship Training (HEART), increased confidence about condom use and positive attitudes towards condoms.
A research team from Kiel University has successfully placed a new class of spin-crossover molecules onto a surface and improved their storage capacity. The result could theoretically increase the storage density of conventional hard drives by more than one hundred fold, enabling data carriers to be made significantly smaller.
Researchers have found that vocal disorders in politicians can change how listeners perceive their leadership qualities, with a preference for post-disorder voices. The study also suggests that age-related traits may be associated with perceived charisma.
A new study suggests that breast milk can help sustain beneficial probiotic colonies in infants' guts, leading to improved gut health. The research, published in mSphere, used a three-week course of probiotics and found that the beneficial microbes persisted for at least 30 days after treatment.
Researchers found that simulated anthropogenic noise exposure physiologically impacted blue crabs and lobsters, causing increased stress responses. The study also revealed behavioral impacts, including aggressive behaviors and reduced feeding, highlighting the need for environmental permitting in coastal areas.
A new species of extinct marsupial lion, Wakaleo schouteni, has been discovered in Australia, weighing around 23 kilograms. This finding provides insights into the evolutionary relationships of marsupial lions and raises questions about their diversity.
A research team from MSU found that stretching diamond crystallites under an electric field causes changes in luminescence spectrum, making them suitable for use in quantum optic devices. The discovery could lead to the development of detectors for contact-free measuring of electric and magnetic fields with high spatial resolution
A recent review found a link between morning sickness, smoking, and healthy pregnancies, suggesting that impaired endokinin activity may be involved in poor placental implantation. Smoking during pregnancy is known to lead to negative outcomes, while morning sickness symptoms may be caused by overspill of endokinin levels in the brain.
A randomized clinical trial found no benefit for a therapeutic HIV vaccine in suppressing viral infection, but provided valuable insights for future cure efforts. Four people in the placebo group exhibited spontaneous HIV suppression, exceeding expected rates among the general population.
Physicists at Mainz University have calculated that neutrino detectors could be useful in certain scenarios for monitoring nuclear waste. A suitable detector could detect if radioactive material had been removed without being documented, and verify the contents of a container without opening it up.
A new study provides insight into the CLOCK gene's vital role in regulating human-specific genes important to brain evolution. The findings suggest that CLOCK regulates genes linked to cognitive disorders and has an important role in human neuronal migration, a process crucial for brain development.
Researchers found hundreds of protein folds present across all superkingdoms of life and in various viruses, suggesting an ancient origin. The study also revealed exclusive gene transfers between specific groups of viruses and their hosts, pointing to unknown mechanisms for viral genetic material exchange.
A field course organized by Taxon Expeditions led to the discovery of six new beetle species in Maliau Basin, Malaysian Borneo. The citizen scientists employed the Winkler extraction method to collect and identify the insects, with three new species published in the Biodiversity Data Journal.
A recent study by UBC researchers found that forest vegetation can have a substantial impact on global water resources, with alterations to ground cover changing annual water yield by up to 31%. The study suggests that both climate change and vegetation loss should be considered when assessing and managing future global water resources.
Researchers found that contrast-enhanced digital mammography (CEDM) is comparable to breast MRI in evaluating residual breast cancer after neoadjuvant endocrine therapy or chemotherapy. CEDM may be a more accessible and cost-effective alternative to breast MRI, with fewer anxiety-provoking effects for patients.
Maintaining at least low levels of physical activity throughout middle age was associated with lower prevalence and incidence of joint symptoms later in life. The potential protective effect of physical activity on joint symptoms was stronger in obese women than in under or normal weight women.
A team led by ecologist Lindsey Rustad sprays water over a portion of forest during an ice storm, simulating the event and studying its effects on forest health. They find that light icing can be beneficial for forests, thinning out branches and allowing new growth.
Dr. Ron Sims, a USU professor of biological engineering, has been elected as a Fellow of the American Institute for Medical and Biological Engineering (AIMBE). He is recognized for his contributions to biomedical and biological engineering innovation, improving public health and environmental sustainability.
A new study by American College of Neuropsychopharmacology reveals that chronic sleep deprivation in teenagers can raise the risk for depression and addiction. The research found that sleep restriction affects the brain's reward system, leading to less activation in the putamen region.
A recent study by Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine identified specific lncRNAs that modulate connective tissue proteins like collagen in skin cells. The researchers found that these long non-coding RNAs work with the Wnt/β-catenin pathway to control gene expression, suggesting a new form of genetic control.
A study published in PLOS ONE found that metformin can prevent the development of multidrug-resistant breast cancer and reverse it after its onset. The research suggests that metformin has potential as a treatment option for aggressive breast cancer, warranting further investigation.
A recent study published in Annals of Behavioral Medicine found that higher Fitbit step counts during inpatient recovery were associated with lower risk of readmission after metastatic peritoneal cancer surgery. The researchers monitored patients using Fitbits and found that more activity was linked to better patient outcomes.
Scientists found that these gel-based containers can retain liquid nitrogen temperatures below -150°C for up to 10 hours, preserving embryo viability. The reusable and DIY-friendly materials also show promise for efficient transportation of sperm and embryos.
African American women face significant disparities in breast cancer care, including delayed treatment and follow-up. The TRIP project aims to reduce these disparities by integrating three evidence-based strategies into a cohesive package across six hospitals.
Researchers at Thomas Jefferson University discovered how losing a gene leads to large-scale genetic changes that make cancer more aggressive and resistant to treatment. The study shows promise for personalized therapy using liquid biopsies to track RB status in prostate cancer patients.
Researchers found that playing 3D video games like Super Mario 64 increased gray matter volume in the hippocampus and cerebellum of older adults. This led to improved short-term memory and cognitive function. The study suggests that learning new things, such as through video games or piano lessons, can reverse age-related brain atrophy.
Researchers at Van Andel Research Institute have determined the atomic-level structure of TRPM4, a protein responsible for regulating blood flow to the brain. The 'crown-like' structure reveals new facets of its makeup and provides a molecular blueprint for designing effective medications with fewer side effects.
People with MS who followed a healthy diet were 20% less likely to have severe physical disability and depression. A healthy lifestyle was also associated with reduced risk of fatigue, pain, and depression.
A study by Lancaster University researchers suggests that spontaneous humour is used and appreciated by people with cancer as a way to deal with taboo or embarrassing situations. The research found that using humorous metaphors can empower patients by undermining their illness, mocking it, and distancing themselves from it.
A Pediatric Pulmonology study of 376 infants found that increasing hair nicotine levels were associated with prior parent-reported smoking exposure and potential increased risks of wheeze and asthma. Higher levels of hair nicotine were also linked to smoking in pregnancy, although associations at older ages were non-significant.
Researchers identified a compound targeting APOE protein in mouse brains, reducing amyloid beta plaques and neurological damage. The findings suggest APOE could be a potential target for treatment or prevention of Alzheimer's disease.
A recent study published in The Lancet found that the use of pencil-point atraumatic needles during lumbar punctures significantly reduces the occurrence of headaches and other complications. The research team analyzed data from over 30,000 patients across 29 countries, showing a more than 50% reduction in headaches and readmissions.
Researchers found seven genes with altered expression in melanoma patients, which could serve as biomarkers for diagnosis and therapeutic targets. The synthetic compound DM-1 induces cell death by increasing the expression of TOP-1 and ADK genes.
The American College of Physicians, along with the American Pharmacists Association and The Gerontological Society of America, has released a new resource highlighting the biological impact of aging on immunity. The guidebook emphasizes the importance of adult immunization in preventing age-related decline in immunity.
An international research team led by Mark van Kleunen found that plant species from European habitats altered by humans have a head start in spreading to other continents. The study investigated over 10,000 plant species and found that those from human-made environments were more successful in naturalizing on other continents.
Scientists analyzed seismic data from Japan's Hi-net network to identify changes in subsurface conditions before and after the 2016 Kumamoto earthquake. These changes, including slowed seismic velocity, may signal impending earthquakes or volcanic activity.
A UBC study found that iPhone pedometers missed about 1,340 steps per day compared to a purpose-built accelerometer, highlighting the need for accurate data in health research.
A team of astronomers has detected the most distant supermassive black hole ever observed, measuring around 800 million times the mass of our sun. The black hole's extreme size is puzzling, as the universe was not old enough to create such a massive object just 690 million years after the Big Bang.
The ShakeAlert system, developed for the US West Coast, is fine-tuning a U.S. prototype that could be in limited public use in 2018. Key components include dense networks of seismic stations and education/training on using alerts.
The $554,000 NSF grant will establish a manufacturing and automation research center at Penn State Behrend, developing hands-on curricula for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics classes in PA, NY, and OH. The center will complement the college's K-12 outreach efforts and Advanced Manufacturing and Innovation Center.
A new study examines how opioids affect proteins in the brain beyond opioid receptors, revealing potential analgesic and toxic effects. The researchers found that certain synthetic opioids inhibit serotonin transporters, which may contribute to their pain-relieving properties but also increase the risk of serotonin syndrome.
A new study by Children's National Hospital suggests that severely premature children are more susceptible to human rhinovirus infections and may require earlier and more intensive supportive care. The research found a 'dose effect' of prematurity, with children born more prematurely having a higher risk of wheezing and retractions.
A team of researchers found that frequent e-device users performed less well in a reading comprehension test after reading scientific articles. The study suggests that the way people read on electronic devices can hinder the holistic approach to reading required for understanding science concepts.
Researchers successfully created a molecular chain composed of freely rotating loops, a significant breakthrough after decades of failure. The new technique could lead to the development of materials and machines with unique properties, such as improved flexibility and tunability.
Researchers at VIB-KU Leuven have identified Caveolin-1 as a key player in suppressing metastatic growth in lung tumors. By studying macrophages at metastasis sites, they revealed that upregulation of this protein hinders cancer progression.
A recent study by Nanyang Technological University found that while anti-poaching efforts have increased tiger population densities, habitat destruction poses a significant threat to the species' survival. The researchers highlight the urgent need for protecting remaining forests like Gunung Leuser National Park.
Researchers identified an association between a specific SLC6A15 polymorphism and resting-state brain function in multiple brain regions in patients with MDD. The study suggests a potential genetic link to the development of major depressive disorder.