A team of researchers has created the first global inventory for volcanic sulfur dioxide emissions, using data from a NASA satellite. The data set provides annual estimates for 91 volcanoes worldwide and will help refine climate models and provide insight into human health risks.
Scientists at Max Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience created new molecular biosensors to study the activity of ERK and PKA proteins in dendritic spines. The team found that these proteins' activity spreads along the length of the dendrite, influencing nearby spines.
A specific protein forms gels in response to stress, which helps cells function and grow under challenging conditions. This gel-like structure is not a sign of damage but rather an adaptive response.
Physicists from MIPT predicted transparent composite media with unusual optical properties using graphics card-based simulations. These structures can exhibit birefringence, a phenomenon where light splits into two beams inside the medium.
A team at Chalmers University of Technology has developed a novel method to modify the fatty acid synthase enzyme, producing medium chain fatty acids and methyl ketones for transportation fuels. The breakthrough enables the production of sustainable biofuels in yeast cell factories.
A new study from the University of Tennessee at Knoxville shows that diversity within a wild songbird community enhances its members' access to food and increases their ability to solve problems. The research found that mixed-species groups are more effective in finding food sources and using problem-solving skills.
A new mathematical model predicts how human brains should grow based on ecological, social, and cultural factors. Early results counter prevailing thought that social influences are required for large brain sizes.
Scientists have identified a previously unknown virus affecting parasitoid wasp species, reducing female offspring and extending lifespan. The discovery has implications for understanding viral transmission in insects.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine have designed a fully synthetic yeast genome, dubbed Sc2.0, which is smaller and more customizable than the natural yeast genome. The artificial genome allows scientists to study genetic questions that are difficult to answer with natural yeast, enabling new discoveries in biotechnology.
The robber fly has exceptional vision thanks to a unique arrangement of lenses, enabling it to spot prey over half a metre away in under half a second. Its 'lock-on' strategy allows it to adapt mid-air and catch its prey with precision, making it a potential model for drone design.
A new hydrogel has been developed that can be injected into a rabbit's eye as a liquid and gel within minutes to replace the clear gel-like substance. The hydrogel exhibits no significant swelling pressures or side effects, suggesting it is safe for potential use in humans.
Researchers from Pohang University of Science & Technology have discovered the critical role of RNA quality control mechanism NMD in longevity of C. elegans. Decreased NMD activity and downregulated yars-2 gene contribute to long lifespan, suggesting its potential in combating age-related diseases.
Researchers discovered that decreased levels of neurotransmitter gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) trigger the retina to produce stem cells in zebrafish, shedding light on retinal regeneration. The finding informs efforts to restore vision in people who are blind and has implications for regenerative medicine.
A study published in the Public Library of Science Pathogens found that Zika virus targets neuronal, lymph, joint, muscle and genital/urinary/reproductive tissues, persisting for at least 35 days. The research provides insights into the growth and distribution of the virus in human tissues.
New research reveals that overweight and obese people tend to live slightly shorter or similar lifespans compared to those with normal body weight. Lifetime risks for developing cardiovascular disease are higher in overweight and obese adults, with middle-aged women being 32% more likely to develop the condition.
The OU professor's research will integrate with educational and outreach programs for American Indian students, emphasizing the importance of sustainable energy. The study aims to quantify the role of catalytically active sites in biomass conversion processes.
New research finds that warming soil layers can increase CO2 release by 34-37% due to deeper storage of carbon. This suggests a significant source of uncertainty in climate projections and highlights the need for better understanding of soil's role in climate change.
Researchers at UMass Amherst are creating an improved diagnostic test to help track symptoms and diagnose patients with progressive multiple sclerosis. The two-year project aims to detect subtle changes in sensory and motor function, enabling early treatments to slow disability progression.
Researchers at Salk Institute find that changing dopamine levels can alter upcoming choices, suggesting new avenues for treating Parkinson's and OCD. The study uses advanced techniques to measure dopamine concentration in mice brains, revealing a tight association between brain chemistry and decision-making.
Scientists construct five new artificial yeast chromosomes, representing over one-third of yeast's entire genome, paving the way for building the first fully synthetic complex organism. The successful assembly demonstrates genetic plasticity and potential applications in gene therapy, biofuel production, and medicine.
A small case report suggests that Zika-linked birth defects may only be 'tip of the iceberg' when it comes to cardiovascular complications. Eight of nine patients developed dangerous arrhythmias and six experienced heart failure, with symptoms manifesting on average 10 days after initial complaints.
A study found that children who don't get enough sleep between 3-7 years old are more likely to have attention, emotional control, and peer relationship issues. The research also showed a higher risk of poor neurobehavioral function at age 7.
A study published by the American College of Cardiology found that marijuana use is associated with a higher risk of stroke and heart failure. Even after accounting for other health conditions and lifestyle risk factors, marijuana use was independently linked to a 26% increase in stroke risk and a 10% increase in heart failure risk.
Researchers have developed layered 2D hybrid perovskites with nanometer thickness, improving optoelectronic performance for efficient devices. The discovery of layer-edge-states at the edges of perovskite layers enables uninhibited charge transport and enhances photovoltaic and light-emitting properties.
Despite recent reforms aimed at improving China's research institutions and innovation system, concerns remain about the autonomy of resulting committees and institutions. Favoritism among researchers, influenced by social connections, also poses a significant challenge in science policy.
Researchers found that patients without the ZEB1 gene tend to have lower survival rates, as this gene regulates tumor growth. The study's results could lead to more accurate prognoses and personalized treatments for brain cancer patients.
A free lung cancer screening in the Augusta area found more than double the cancer rate of previous screenings, with 3% of participants diagnosed with lung cancer. The majority of cases were caught early, with a 90% overall survival rate for those detected before symptoms appeared.
Researchers have found that volcanoes collectively emit significant amounts of sulfur dioxide into the atmosphere, which is easier to detect from space. Human activities also emit large quantities of sulfur dioxide, but are declining in many countries due to pollution controls.
A new study published in Nature Communications found a chemical compound that extended the lifespan of thousands of roundworms by doubling their lifespan. The compound, Thioflavin T, worked in all genetically diverse species tested, possibly by preventing damaged proteins from accumulating.
Researchers at the University of Alberta found that feeding obese mice with resveratrol altered their gut microbiome, improving glucose tolerance. Fecal transplants from healthy mice also showed rapid and dramatic effects on blood sugar levels in obese mice.
Researchers at UCLA have discovered that targeting cancer stem cells and killing tumor mass with chemotherapy drugs results in better outcomes for patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. The study also found that cancer stem cells cause cervical lymph node metastasis.
A new study finds that mice display contagious itching behavior after observing peers, even when watching videos of others scratching. The researchers identified the suprachiasmatic nucleus as a key driver of this phenomenon.
Researchers at Lappeenranta University of Technology found that a fully renewable electricity system in Iran could reduce costs by 50-60% compared to other emission-free energy options. The transition requires significant investments in solar, wind, and hydropower but can drive economic growth and reduce emissions.
Researchers at Mayo Clinic have identified a specific protein implicated in drug resistance, as well as a possible therapeutic tool. By engineering a peptide that blocks the activity of another protein ERK, the team found that it can prevent chemotherapy resistance and tumor growth.
Researchers found that asthmatics have weaker immune systems, leading to more severe flu symptoms. The study analyzed lung samples from asthmatic and healthy individuals, showing a stronger immune response in healthy volunteers.
Recent advances in understanding regulatory mechanisms of HH pathway and chemical regulation are discussed. CAS scientists propose a hypothetical model for endogenous chemical modulation and suggest precise interventions for better therapeutic outcomes.
A new study suggests that investing in agriculture can improve food production and regional productivity, but also risks expanding agricultural land into natural forests. The region's future development will have profound implications for millions of people.
Researchers discovered that dendrites, a key component of neurons, generate nearly 10 times more electrical spikes than somas, challenging the long-held belief in neural computation. The finding may pave the way for treating neurological disorders and developing brain-like computers.
Researchers demonstrate that clocks placed next to each other necessarily disturb each other, causing a universal limitation on measuring time. This effect is independent of clock mechanism or material, highlighting the need to re-examine our ideas about time in both quantum mechanics and general relativity.
Researchers at Osaka University used electron cryomicroscopy to study flagellar motors, revealing that small changes in amino acids can significantly impact function. The discovery provides insight into constructing synthetic nanomachines with similar properties.
A new study aims to improve treatment access for low-income women with postpartum depression by evaluating two interventions in primary care settings. The research will determine when during pregnancy and postpartum periods screening for depression is most accurate, as well as the effectiveness of peer-based engagement and problem-solv...
New research suggests that fast radio bursts might be evidence of advanced alien technology, powering interstellar probes in distant galaxies. A study found that a planet-sized transmitter could generate the needed energy to make such detection possible.
Scientists have designed two new drug candidates that target specific types of cancer by binding to defective RNAs. The compounds, called Targapremir-18a and Targapremir-210, successfully kill prostate and triple negative breast cancer cells without causing broader side effects.
Researchers discovered a molecular signaling receptor, type I Interferon receptor (IFNAR), that fuels production of pro-inflammatory cytokines during secondary inflammatory challenge, inducing preterm birth. Testing in mouse models and human tissues found that genetic deletion or inhibition of IFNAR prevents preterm birth.
A study on rat models found changes in brain activity and blood flow early in life, potentially linked to hypertension. The researchers suggest that these changes could be a cause of high blood pressure, paving the way for potential prevention strategies.
A new RAND Corporation study analyzes over 200 real-world zero-day software vulnerabilities, establishing initial baseline metrics that can augment other studies. The research finds that zero-day vulnerabilities have an average life expectancy of 6.9 years, making public disclosure a moderate level of protection.
Researchers at MIT have discovered a new method to control electrons in two-dimensional materials, potentially paving the way for valleytronic devices with enhanced control over electronic valleys. This breakthrough could lead to faster, more efficient data storage and computer logic systems.
The discovery of over 60 extremely distant quasars nearly doubles the known number, offering a unique window into the early universe. Studying these 'lighthouses' of the cosmos will help understand how galaxies developed and interacted with supermassive black holes.
The Healthcare Safety Investigation Branch (HSIB) will investigate serious risks to patient safety across the healthcare system, publicly reporting findings and issuing recommendations for improvement. The HSIB's independence is crucial to build an authoritative system-wide view of safety issues.
Researchers at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory found that dopamine-releasing neurons factor ambiguity into predictions, enabling effective learning and decision-making. The study adds a new dimension to our understanding of brain function, suggesting that these neurons are more sophisticated than previously thought.
Researchers found that presenting a mugshot with a question can create an association between the person and the action, leading to false recognition. This effect is more pronounced in younger adults, who form a specific association between the pictured actor and the queried action.
A new perspective paper warns that the potential repeal of the Affordable Care Act poses a threat to critical mental and behavioral health services for people with autism and other disabilities. The author, David S. Mandell, calls on the scientific community to use evidence to guide policy in this area.
Researchers identified autophagy as a critical process for promoting germline stem cell proliferation, specifically by regulating the cell cycle of progenitor cells. The study also found that autophagy is finely tuned in surrounding tissues to maintain germline homeostasis.
A study published in Nature found that Aboriginal populations have been continuously present in the same regions for up to 50,000 years, supporting their cultural connection to country. The research analyzed mitochondrial DNA from hair samples collected during anthropological expeditions across Australia and revealed a single founding ...
A new study by Indiana University researchers found that increasing the minimum wage would likely reduce the US adolescent birth rate by about 2%. This translates to approximately 5,000 fewer births annually. Higher wages can motivate teens to work and delay childbearing or prioritize leisure time over parenthood.
Researchers have discovered a repeating one-per-cent spike in the light of Iota Orionis, a binary star system with a mass 35 times that of the Sun. The unusual variation is caused by the gravitational interaction between the two stars, triggering quakes that allow astronomers to probe the star's inner workings.
Researchers at the University of Tsukuba found that KLF4 promotes metabolic shift towards glycolysis and inhibits oxidative phosphorylation, enabling cells to acquire pluripotency. This discovery sheds light on the mechanisms underlying induced pluripotent stem cell generation.
A study of 1566 community-dwelling Japanese elderly found elevated dementia risks in individuals with fewer remaining teeth. Individuals with 10-19 and no teeth had significantly higher risks compared to those with more teeth.
A recent study by University of Kentucky researchers found a 12-13% lower rate of sexual violence victimization in schools that implemented the Green Dot program, resulting in 120 fewer sexually violent events. The five-year program, funded by CDC and partnering with local organizations, was shown to be cost-effective and culturally im...
A study published in JAMA Surgery found that racial disparities in firearm injuries are more strongly associated with race than neighborhood income levels. The researchers argue that establishing a national database on gun violence incidents is crucial to understanding and addressing this public health problem.