The Isle Royale wolf population has remained unchanged for the second year in a row, with only two wolves left on the island. The moose population is expected to double over the next three to four years, leading to increased vegetation consumption and potentially altering the island's ecosystem.
The Consortium for Advanced Simulation of Light Water Reactors (CASL) developed a model of the Watts Bar Unit 2 reactor core before startup and simulated its initial cycle. The simulations confirmed engineers' predictions on safe operation and provided detailed hour-by-hour behavior during power escalation. CASL's high-fidelity code su...
Researchers at ETH Zurich have discovered that vaccine-induced IgA antibodies 'enchain' bacteria in the intestine, forming clumps that prevent disease and genetic exchange of resistant genes. This approach could lead to a new strategy for intestinal infections, including farm animal vaccination and potential human applications.
Researchers at Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center discovered a small molecular compound, RCM-1, that blocks the transcription factor FOXM1 and its pro-inflammatory activity in asthma. The compound prevented overproduction of mucous-generating goblet cells and reduced lung inflammation.
Researchers identified cyclic GMP-AMP synthase (cGAS) as the protein responsible for detecting viral infection, but dengue virus counteracts this by degrading cGAS. This study sheds light on a novel mechanism by which viruses evade immune detection and may inform techniques to dampen pro-inflammatory responses.
University of Oklahoma College of Law student Aaron Fournier has been selected for the Udall Foundation's Native American Congressional Internship, focused on tribal sovereignty and public policy. He will work with federal employees in Washington, D.C., to promote increased tribal sovereignty after completing his studies.
A team of scientists has developed an algorithm called PhenomeNET Variant Predictor (PVP) that can identify genetic changes in patients with genetic disorders. PVP uses data from non-human model organisms and a large database of gene-to-phenotype associations to prioritize variants with their likelihood of involvement in human disease.
A new study by Michigan State University found that well-kept vacant lots can help reduce crime rates in urban areas. The research analyzed nine years of crime data in Flint, Michigan, and discovered a correlation between greening efforts and decreased crime rates, including violent and property crimes.
Researchers have identified the neural basis for password-based species recognition in cowbirds, a behavior that resolves the paradox of species recognition in brood parasites. The study reveals that young cowbirds use a specific chatter call as a 'password' to identify conspecifics and avoid imprinting on host species.
Researchers at Northwestern University developed a new method, GAMERS, to extract the static and dynamic structure of complex chemical systems. This four-dimensional coherent spectroscopic method reveals hidden features of molecular structure, enabling insights into quantum phenomena and potential applications in solar cells.
Researchers at CU Anschutz Medical Campus found that cannabinoids may be effective in treating eczema, psoriasis, and other skin diseases. Topical cannabinoid drugs with little psychotropic effect could provide relief for patients with itchy skin conditions.
FAU researchers identified Zeb1 as a key factor that activates embryonic programme, leading to rapid dissemination and metastasis in pancreatic cancer. They also found that blocking Zeb1 reduces metastatic capacity in other tumour types.
A study in Berkeley, California found that a tax on sugar-sweetened beverages reduced sales of these drinks by 9.6% while increasing water consumption by 15.6%. The effects of the tax varied by store type, with larger chains passing through the tax more consistently than independent stores.
Climate change is causing Arctic river ice deposits to melt nearly a month earlier than they did 15 years ago, with most icings disappearing 26 days earlier in 2015 than in 2000. This rapid decline could have significant impacts on Arctic river ecosystems.
A new vaccine called Zoonoses Barrier Vaccine (ZBV) aims to prevent the spread of highly pathogenic zoonotic diseases. The vaccine targets deadly pathogens in animal species and has shown promise in preventing devastating diseases such as Lassa haemorrhagic fever, SARS, MERS, plaque, Rift Valley Fever Virus and Q Fever.
Research found that birdsong duration and frequencies are adjusted in response to traffic noise, with songs returning to natural state after road closures. Temporary road closures can help mitigate this effect, providing birds with an opportunity to sing optimally.
Scientists are developing novel molecules to target RAS, a common driving mutation in pancreatic and lung cancer. The collaboration aims to create gold standard tests for analyzing these inhibitors.
Researchers found that barnacle geese cannot accurately anticipate climate change due to the unpredictability of polar region warming. The birds' reproductive success will be reduced if they continue to mistime their arrival at breeding grounds, despite some compensation from a longer breeding season and smarter migration strategies.
A study led by Georgia State University found that cytokine IL-36γ promotes the development of pro-inflammatory T helper cells and inhibits regulatory T cells in humans. This discovery could lead to new therapeutic approaches for inflammatory bowel disease, particularly ulcerative colitis.
Kristin Umland receives the 2017 AMS Impact Award for her work on illustrating mathematics standards and creating professional development resources. Her efforts have improved math education for millions of teachers and students across the US.
Researchers at UNH have developed a new tool to measure both carbon and nitrogen footprints, aiming to reduce campus activities' impact on water quality and climate change. The Nitrogen Footprint Tool Network includes seven institutions, tracking emissions from food waste, energy consumption, and transportation.
A collaborative effort between psychologists and economists reveals that combining both disciplines leads to better understanding of decisions. The research focuses on individuals' expectations for major life events, such as finding work or having children, and shows that teens are capable of estimating numerical probabilities with acc...
A novel optical technique enables rapid sorting of amino acid sequences in living bacteria, revealing structural properties crucial for materials development. This technology uses femto-pico second lasers to inspect proteins without heating them up, enabling non-lethal screening and separation.
Researchers found that nutrition label users tend to select healthier foods, such as fruits, vegetables, and beans, while avoiding refined grains and fried foods. The study suggests that dining facilities can encourage healthy eating behaviors by increasing nutrient-dense food options and product reformulations.
Tropical Storm Maarutha's intense rainbands were detected by the Global Precipitation Measurement mission, showing rainfall rates of over 134 mm per hour near its center. The satellite imagery provided valuable insights into the cyclone's powerful convective storms, which reached altitudes of over 10.9 miles.
A Johns Hopkins Medicine study found that air pollution directly causes inflammation in the nasal and sinus tissues of mice. The researchers exposed mice to polluted air for 16 weeks, showing increased white blood cells and biomarkers of inflammation.
A new study finds that inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) cases are rising rapidly among young Canadian children, particularly those under five years old. The incidence of IBD has stabilized for children over five but continues to rise in younger age groups, with an estimated 600-650 children diagnosed annually.
A Danish study found that working-age people with fainting spells have a 1.4-fold increased risk of occupational accidents and a 2-fold higher risk of job loss compared to those without the condition. Younger individuals with poor socioeconomic status or additional health conditions are particularly at high risk.
A study published in Scientific Reports found that a high-fat, high-carbohydrate diet rich in saturated fatty acids can weaken cartilage in joints, leading to osteoarthritis. The research suggests that diet may play a significant role in the onset of osteoarthritis, rather than wear and tear.
A study published in Journal of Health Economics found that drinking by pregnant women is down 11 percent in states requiring point-of-sale warning signs. The benefits to heeding the warnings show up in fewer extremely premature births and very-low-birth-weight babies.
A research team at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital has revealed a previously unknown immune machinery underlying neutrophilic dermatosis, a group of autoinflammatory skin disorders. By mapping the biological pathways involved, the researchers identified key molecules and signaling nodes that drive inflammation and tissue damage.
A large study found no link between azithromycin and ventricular arrhythmia, an irregular heartbeat that can be life-threatening. Compared to amoxicillin, azithromycin was associated with a lower risk of this condition.
Research by British American Tobacco found that e-cigarette vapour has a limited effect on gene expression in human lung cells compared to cigarette smoke. The study exposed MucilAir 3D models to equivalent or higher doses of nicotine and measured the genes affected, revealing significant differences in response.
Researchers at Sandia National Laboratories have developed a new technology that mimics imprint processes used in industrial manufacturing, creating nanowire-array structures similar to those found in touch-screens for sensors, computers, phones, and TVs. The pressure-based fabrication process is faster and more environmentally friendl...
A recent study by UCSF found that young adults experience greater pleasure from smoking cigarettes while under the influence of alcohol compared to marijuana. The study, which used self-reported data from 500 participants aged 18-25, suggests that co-use of cigarettes and alcohol may be more pleasurable than co-use with marijuana.
New studies published in JAMA Network report no increased risk of autism spectrum disorder and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder among children exposed to antidepressants during pregnancy. The research suggests alternative explanations for previous findings may be responsible.
Researchers discovered that motor cortical neurons adapt to optimize movement encoding, enabling more precise neural prosthetics. The findings have potential applications in improving brain-machine interface performance and reliability.
A new study by Oxford University reveals that homing pigeons can accumulate knowledge and improve their flight paths over time, mirroring human cumulative culture. The birds' collective intelligence enables them to streamline their routes, outperforming solo or group flights with no membership changes.
A study published in JAMA finds that adhering to the 2016 USPSTF recommendations for statin therapy could lead to a lower number of individuals recommended for primary prevention statin therapy. This is due to a higher estimated ASCVD risk threshold and required presence of at least one cardiovascular risk factor.
Researchers discover bacteriophages that can effectively reduce bacterial levels and improve health in mice infected with antibiotic-resistant 'superbugs.' The study's findings suggest phages could be a promising alternative to antibiotics, with potential benefits including fewer side effects and the ability to evolve against resistance.
A recent meta-analysis of 57 studies involving over 25,000 participants found a weak to moderate link between social media activity and narcissistic tendencies. Grandiose narcissists are more likely to frequent social networking sites, whereas vulnerable narcissism is associated with insecurity and social withdrawal.
Researchers have identified a frog peptide, urumin, that can destroy many strains of human flu and protect mice against infection. The peptide targets the hemagglutinin protein on the virus, destabilizing it and killing it.
Researchers discovered a birth-and-death cycle of neurons in the adult mouse gut, with about five percent of nerve cells regenerating daily or a third every week. This finding has profound implications for understanding and treating digestive system disorders and diseases.
A new study offers good news for pork producers, providing research-backed management recommendations. The study found that quality in one part of the pig does not predict quality in other parts, and that individual differences account for most variability in pork products.
A study found that urban house finches are better at solving new problems than their rural counterparts due to adaptation to human presence. Rural birds who experienced high levels of human disturbance performed poorly on the problem-solving task.
Researchers at the University of Alberta have found that sea scorpions likely used their serrated tail spines to kill ancient early vertebrates. The study suggests that these prehistoric predators could slash their tails from side to side, using a horizontal slashing motion to capture and dispatch their prey.
Researchers identified a compensatory mechanism in bacteria that can be used as a new therapeutic target against multi-drug resistant bacteria. The study found that the pace of adaptation in multi-drug resistant Escherichia coli strains is faster than for strains with single resistance mutations.
A new study published in the Journal of Pediatrics suggests that both low and high birth weights are linked to nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in children. The study found that advanced scarring of the liver is associated with low birth weight, while more inflammation is linked to high birth weight.
Researchers from the University of Guelph and collaborators identified four valid Calinaga species, which originated in southeast Tibet during the Eocene epoch. The study revealed that the genus diversified due to geological changes caused by the collision between Indian and Asian subcontinents.
Dr. Beverly Davidson has been elected to the American Academy of Arts and Sciences, a testament to her outstanding contributions to neuroscience. Her research focus on understanding molecular basis of neurodegeneration in inherited brain disorders has made significant impact.
The article highlights that climate change threatens the sustainability of the fossil fuel industry, with emissions accounting for two-thirds of greenhouse gas emissions. The industry faces increasing pressures due to carbon-based businesses and economies facing impediments to consumption, according to Jim Krane and Ritchie D. Priddy.
Researchers at University of Arizona discover diffuse hydrogen gas surrounding Milky Way, accounting for large part of galaxy's baryonic mass. This finding confirms predictions from simulations and provides new insights into the nature of dark matter.
A large-scale analysis suggests that mothers' use of antidepressants during early pregnancy does not significantly increase the risk of autism or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in their children. However, a slightly higher risk for premature birth was found among exposed offspring.
Emergency departments are increasingly using intranasal medication administration as an alternative to injections or IVs, offering a fast and noninvasive route to deliver medications directly to the brain. This method requires no needles, is less painful than IVs or injections, and minimizes infectious disease spread.
Remnants of former Tropical Cyclone 02W lingered in the South China Sea as NASA's Aqua satellite captured visible images of clouds and flaring convection. The system is expected to dissipate due to dry air and unfavorable conditions for re-intensification.
A new national center at Penn State will focus on preventing and treating child maltreatment, a critical issue affecting 2 million US children annually. The Center for Healthy Children will translate research into solutions to enhance the child welfare system.
Mini Das, assistant professor of physics at UH, aims to develop fast, low-radiation, high-resolution X-ray microscopy to study tissues and materials without slicing or killing samples. Her project will test new detecting methods, algorithms, and instrumentation.
A recent study found that climate change has led to a 20% loss in the annual maximum amount of water contained in the Western US's mountain snowpack over the last three decades. The researchers estimate that further losses of up to 60% could occur within the next 30 years, posing significant economic and societal impacts.
Researchers have quantified the economic value of biodiversity in grasslands for enhancing carbon storage capacity. Increasing plant species diversity from one to ten resulted in twice the carbon storage value compared to increasing it from one to two species.
Scientists at Luxembourg Institute of Health discovered a new molecular mechanism where the human immune system activates T cells to fight off pathogens through the production of glutathione, a substance that stimulates energy metabolism. This discovery offers potential therapeutic strategies for targeting cancer and autoimmune diseases.
Researchers recommend banning transshipment at-sea to curb illegal fishing and human trafficking. The practice allows ships to evade monitoring and enforcement, enabling the laundering of illicit fish into the seafood market.
Research reveals liver progenitor cells become activated and expand due to oncogenic signals from malignant hepatocytes. Progenitor cells can lead to benign or aggressive tumours, contributing to tumour heterogeneity.
Scientists at NREL have achieved a new solar-to-hydrogen (STH) efficiency record of 16.2%, significantly improving upon the 14% efficiency set in 2015. The breakthrough, published in Nature Energy, involves an inverted metamorphic multijunction semiconductor architecture that enhances device efficiency and durability.
Scientists have created the most accurate navigation system for the bread wheat genome, allowing researchers to analyze its genes more easily than ever before. The system includes detailed annotation of over 100,000 wheat genes, revealing previously hidden genes and improving crop yields.
Scientists at NREL developed a new perovskite ink with a long processing window, allowing for the production of high-efficiency solar cells. The ink was tested using blade-coating and produced indistinguishable film morphology and device performance.
Scientists successfully produce stable Pickering emulsions by inducing depletion force between solid particles and liquid droplets. This technology has significant implications for industries such as separation film, systems engineering, drug delivery, and sensors.
Researchers found that bryozoans quickly dissolved in warmer waters exposed to acidity, changing their chemical composition to build higher levels of magnesium in their skeletons. This predisposes these animals to dissolve in ocean acidification, which is becoming more common due to climate change.
A new study found that cannabidiol may reduce seizures by half in people with Lennox-Gastaut syndrome, a severe form of epilepsy. The treatment showed great promise in reducing drop seizures and improving overall condition, but also had side effects such as decreased appetite and sleepiness.
Researchers have discovered a frog-derived peptide, urumin, that specifically targets the H1 strain of influenza viruses. Urumin was found to disrupt the integrity of flu viruses without harming mammalian cells, making it a promising lead for antiviral drug discovery.
A major randomized study by Karolinska Institutet found that the most common combined oral contraceptive pill negatively affects women's quality of life without increasing depressive symptoms. The study involved 340 healthy women who reported lower mood/well-being and self-control after taking the pill compared to those given placebos.
Researchers found that poor sleep in people with depression and anxiety can make it harder for the brain to modify negative emotional responses. The study used functional MRI to measure brain activity in a specific region, the dorsal anterior cingulate cortex, which was found to work harder in individuals with lower sleep efficiency.
Research reveals that major increases in environmental moisture caused widespread glacial-age grasslands to be replaced by peatlands and bogs, fragmenting populations of large herbivore grazers. The study found distinctive biochemical signals reflecting massive increases of moisture on the landscape.
Research from Binghamton University found that adjusting solar panel angles four to five times a year can provide around 25 kW/m2 more power than seasonal adjustments. This practical solution can help reduce costs associated with automated tracking systems, making manual adjustment an economical option.
Research by TUM found that low zinc levels can affect the heart's ability to deal with oxidative stress, leading to increased risk of heart disease. Zinc deficiency was also linked to upregulation of genes responsible for programmed cell death.
A recent genetic study of clinging jellyfish populations has discovered unexpected connections between communities in the Pacific and Atlantic oceans, challenging previous assumptions about their origins. The research suggests that there may be more than one species of Gonionemus, with different variants found in various locations.
Researchers demonstrate that an aggressive combination of systemic therapy and local therapy can eliminate all detectable disease in selected patients with metastatic prostate cancer. One-fifth of the patients treated had no detectable disease, with undetectable PSA and normal testosterone levels after 20 months.
Researchers at CNIC identified metoprolol's mechanism of action, which protects the heart from inflammation caused by neutrophils. The study opens up new applications for the cheap and safe drug, published in Nature Communications.
A team of researchers applied spectroscopic diagnostics to study sub- and supercritical jet disintegration, revealing trends important for improving jet propulsion systems. The Planar Laser Induced Fluorescence (PLIF) technique provided quantitative density data, offering new insights into fluid behavior.
New research from Michigan State University suggests that a boss's mindset can significantly impact employee motivation. Studies found that leaders with a regulatory focus, or mindset, can adapt their behavior to elicit specific mindsets in employees, whether it's innovation or a more conservative work focus.
A Japanese research team has discovered the mechanism behind oil synthesis in microalgae cells, which could contribute to the development of more efficient biofuels. The findings revealed that adding seawater increases the production of triacylglycerol, a key component of oil.
Researchers are developing new CT and MRI scan techniques to identify early signs of drug-induced liver and lung disease, potentially saving time and money. The TRISTAN project will use imaging biomarkers to develop predictive models for safer drug development.
The National Institute on Aging has awarded $1.3 million to the American Federation for Aging Research as the first Nathan Shock Centers Coordinating Center. This center will coordinate activities among six basic biology of aging centers, enhance external communication with researchers and the public, and facilitate data sharing.
Scientists at NREL developed a proof-of-principle photoelectrochemical cell capable of capturing excess photon energy. The cell achieved peak external quantum efficiency for hydrogen generation of 114 percent, significantly improving the production of hydrogen from sunlight.
Researchers developed a prognostic tool predicting end-stage renal disease risk in type 1 and 2 diabetes patients. The test uses biomarker values to identify those at high risk, improving the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of clinical trials.
The USDA's National Institute of Food and Agriculture has announced $6.3 million in available funding for projects supporting resilient agriculture and forestry production systems. These investments will help producers, land managers, and decision-makers develop valuable tools to address climate-related challenges.
New research suggests that captive meerkat groups in zoos are more susceptible to chronic stress due to their small group sizes and constant exposure to human visitors. The study measured stress levels by analyzing hormone samples from the meerkats' droppings, revealing a link between small group sizes and high visitor numbers.
A Stanford study has identified a protein called hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) that can prime mouse stem cells to quickly respond to injury. The researchers found that HGF helps activate a critical signaling pathway in the cells, stimulating the production of proteins important for alerting stem cells and promoting tissue repair.
Researchers developed a new methodology to calculate theoretical spectra for atoms and molecules in strong magnetic fields exhibited by up to one-fifth of white dwarfs. This work sheds light on the presence of oxygen, silicon, phosphorous, carbon, and carbon-containing compounds in these collapsed stars.
A new detection method allows for the measurement of interferon- protein levels in patient samples, providing novel insights into disease-causing pathways and potential biomarkers for treatment monitoring. Elevated interferon- levels were found in autoimmune diseases such as SLE and dermatomyositis.
The Kinder Foundation has awarded a $10.7 million grant to Rice University's Houston Education Research Consortium (HERC) to expand its innovative work in the Greater Houston region. HERC will focus on creating a direct line of communication between education researchers and decision-makers.
Sharon C. Glotzer received the 2017 MRS Communications Lecture Award for her work on polymer-tethered nanoparticles. Her paper, published in MRS Communications, demonstrates the use of computational tools to design and assemble functional materials nanostructures.
A new study finds gunshot wounds in Miami-Dade County cluster in poor, black neighborhoods, with a fatality rate of 15.4%. The researchers call for urgent community engagement and prevention strategies to reduce firearm violence.
A 68-year study found that frequent burning of forests can lead to diverse ecosystems with small trees and herbaceous plants, while annual burning creates tall canopy trees with wide spaces. The study suggests land managers should plan fire use strategically based on forest goals.
A team of scientists has identified a two-part system protecting the heart muscle's power grid from disease-related damage. The mitochondrial circuits in the heart are arranged in parallel rows, forming several smaller subnetworks that limit the spread of electrical dysfunction.
A new study by researchers at the University of California, Davis and the University of New Hampshire found hundreds of differences in gene activity between male and female rock doves. The findings aim to promote sex and gender inclusion in experimental science and shed light on physiological differences between sexes.
A recent Dartmouth-led study found a strong association between fast-food TV ads and increased consumption among pre-schoolers. The research team recruited 548 parents and tracked their child's exposure to child-targeted ads, revealing that moderate or high exposure increased the likelihood of consuming fast food by about 30%.
A new study by Yusheng Feng describes an algorithm that can predict the growth of cancerous tumors, helping medical professionals make informed decisions on treatment options. The algorithm takes into account various factors such as biological events and cell patterns to provide personalized predictions.
The USDA's National Institute of Food and Agriculture announced funding opportunities to develop new biobased products and biomaterials from renewable sources. The program aims to reduce U.S. dependence on foreign energy and create economic opportunities in rural communities.
A recent study published in JAMA found that a single capsule of corticosteroid dexamethasone did not increase the likelihood of complete symptom resolution after 24 hours in patients with sore throats. However, at 48 hours, more participants receiving dexamethasone reported feeling completely better.
A University of Wisconsin-Madison study reveals that certain amoebas called dictyostelids can penetrate biofilms and devour bacteria, including multi-drug resistant species. This finding has potential applications in combating antibiotic-resistant infections, such as bacterial keratitis and fire blight.
The American Physiological Society has announced its 2017 Distinguished Lecturers, who will present talks at Experimental Biology. The winners include Michael J. Welsh, Brant Isakson, and Kurt Albertine, recognized for their lifetime achievement and contributions to physiology.