The Wildlife Conservation Society emphasizes the importance of science in wildlife conservation, citing numerous examples including the prevention of American Bison extinction and forest elephant population recovery. Science informs their work through research papers, protected areas establishment, and policy development.
A study published in The Journal of Bone & Joint Surgery found that women are more likely to experience hypersensitivity to metals used in joint replacements, leading to increased pain and complications. Women accounted for 60% of patients with unexplained pain after joint replacement, with higher average pain scores than men.
Researchers have discovered an antibody that can detect tau in the serum of patients with tauopathies, a neurodegenerative disorder characterized by toxic protein clumps. The antibody, HJ8.5, has shown promise in increasing tau levels in human patients and mouse models, potentially paving the way for new treatments.
Researchers developed flexible graphene and gold probes that can detect weak brain signals clearly, improving neural disease treatment and brain-machine interface capabilities. The new probes retain effective surface area despite shrinking size, paving the way for more convenient wireless versions.
The EXPERT tool generates personalized exercise programs for patients with different combinations of cardiovascular risk factors or diseases. The tool takes into account various goals, including reducing blood glucose, fat mass, and blood pressure in patients with diabetes, hypertension, and obesity.
Research shows that ocean-going spinner dolphin calves do not develop physical characteristics essential for sustaining deep dives as quickly as shallow-diving coastal species. This slow development may lead to mother-calf separations during tuna purse-seine fisheries, posing a significant threat to dolphin populations.
A study published in Scientific Reports found that strawberry extract inhibited the proliferation of breast cancer cells in both in vitro and in vivo models. The extract reduced cell viability, blocked cell division, and inhibited migration, while also stimulating the expression of a gene that suppresses metastasis.
Researchers have discovered and characterized 82 massive binary star systems in the Tarantula Nebula, a satellite galaxy of the Milky Way. The study provides new insights into the properties of these systems, which are expected to play a crucial role in shaping the chemical evolution of the universe.
Researchers analyzed 24,000 retinal exams to develop a new screening schedule for people with type 1 diabetes. The findings suggest that adjusting the frequency of eye screenings based on risk could lead to lower costs and quicker diagnosis and treatment of advanced retinopathy.
Ben-Gurion University researchers have developed novel ultrafiltration membranes that significantly improve virus-removal from treated municipal wastewater used for drinking. The new approach uses a special hydrogel coating to repel viruses, leading to a higher rate of removal and improved public safety in water-scarce cities.
Researchers found that removing serine and glycine from the diet of mice slowed lymphoma and intestinal cancer development. The special diet also made some cancer cells more susceptible to reactive oxygen species, which could boost conventional treatments' effectiveness. Next steps include clinical trials with cancer patients.
Researchers found that even though iPSCs derived from identical twins have the same genes, they have distinct epigenetic markers, particularly near MYC binding sites. This discovery helps scientists better understand the processes involved in reprogramming cells and the differences between iPSCs and ESCs.
Astronomers have discovered a super-Earth orbiting a quiet red dwarf star, LHS 1140, in the habitable zone where liquid water can exist. The exoplanet's large size and dense iron core suggest it may have retained an atmosphere long after its star calmed down.
A UCLA-led study found that students who experienced high levels of stress in a college mathematics course were more likely to forget the material. The phenomenon, called 'motivated forgetting,' is thought to be a defense mechanism to protect one's self-image as an excellent mathematician.
A recent review explores why animals favor one side of the brain, highlighting perceptual specialization, motor specialization, and parallel processing. The research also sheds light on environmental influences and genetic aspects of asymmetrical development, potentially providing insight into brain conditions in humans.
MIT engineers detailed the hydrodynamics of archer fish's jump, revealing its unique propulsion system. The study aims to improve underwater vehicle design and could lead to the development of spyhopping vehicles.
Researchers provide photographic proof of climate change using images of retreating glaciers worldwide. The study aims to boost public awareness of the loss of glaciers' importance in maintaining Earth's atmosphere and scientific archives.
Yuna Ayala's research team discovers how TDP-43 protein causes damaging plaque buildup in neurodegenerative diseases like ALS and frontotemporal dementia. They found that phosphorylation regulates TDP-43's activity, location, and processing, which may be crucial for cellular metabolism.
A new study found that supplements of DHA, an essential omega-3 fatty acid, can prevent the progression of nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) into more serious health problems like cirrhosis and liver cancer. This breakthrough discovery offers hope to millions of people worldwide who struggle with obesity and poor diet.
The new blood test can accurately and quickly identify genetic mutations associated with NSCLC, allowing clinicians to make earlier, individualized treatment choices. The test showed high sensitivity and specificity for detecting each type of mutation, and results were available within 72 hours.
NASA's Terra satellite captured a well-defined low-level circulation center in the remains of Tropical Depression 02W, located near the Philippines. The system is expected to move northward but faces unfavorable conditions for intensification.
A Dartmouth-led study refutes the theory that behavior under uncertainty is optimal, finding that synapses can self-adjust learning rates using metaplasticity. The brain adjusts learning according to the uncertainty about reward in a given environment.
Researchers at the University of Washington found that swinging in unison enhances cooperation in preschoolers, enabling them to adapt to situations and work towards common goals. This study suggests that simple movements like swinging can create a sense of 'being like' another child, encouraging communication and teamwork.
The invasive Batrachochytrium salamandrivorans fungus has led to mass mortality of fire salamanders in the Netherlands, Belgium, and Germany. Only 13% of infected salamanders survive over a 10-day period, highlighting the high risk of extinction.
Brown recluse spider bites can cause severe illness in children, including blood clotting disorder and hemolysis. Children and African-Americans may be at higher risk for developing systemic loxoscelism, a potentially life-threatening condition that requires hospitalization and supportive treatment.
A promising artificial blood substitute has been developed using modified hemoglobin, effectively carrying oxygen and scavenging free radicals. The novel approach packaging hemoglobin in a benign envelope overcomes toxicity issues with traditional chemically modified hemoglobin.
A recent study by the University of Sussex has discovered evidence for a 'higher' state of consciousness in individuals under the influence of psychedelic drugs. The researchers used brain imaging technology to measure neural signal diversity, finding a sustained increase compared to normal waking states.
A study published in JAMA Surgery examined US emergency department visits for patients injured by law enforcement from 2006 to 2012, finding approximately 51,000 ED visits annually. The study also revealed that most injuries were minor and occurred due to being struck, with substance abuse and mental illness common among patients.
A study highlights the importance of increased funding for geriatrics education, citing a vital need for dedicated time and financial support. The Geriatrics Academic Career Awards (GACAs) program played a crucial role in training over 41,000 health professionals since 1998.
Researchers found that shale-gas development leads to significant forest fragmentation, particularly on private land. To mitigate this, they recommend placing new well pads near pre-existing pipelines and consolidating infrastructure.
Researchers from Lomonosov Moscow State University studied Keplerian shear flow stability, predicting turbulent behavior at high Reynolds numbers. They employed a variational approach to model non-ionized matter flows.
Scientists at The Scripps Research Institute found that neurons can form networks independently of synaptic activity, suggesting genetic programs control neural circuit assembly. These findings were confirmed by a complementary study at the Max Planck Institute for Experimental Medicine.
A new study from University of Georgia researchers aims to identify wind magnitudes commonly associated with thunderstorm asthma outbreaks. By cross-referencing forecast modeling tools, the study may help anticipate significant thunderstorms and alert public health officials about potential triggers.
Research by Herberholz and colleagues found that isolated crayfish are less sensitive to the effects of alcohol than gregarious animals. The study suggests that social experience can impact the sensitivity to acute alcohol exposure.
Flowers that attract hummingbirds have specific characteristics that also deter bumblebees, with certain combinations of traits discouraging wasteful visits. Bees have difficulty learning to combine red with other sensory traits, making it economic sense for them to avoid bird flowers.
Researchers found that different genes influence behaviors in males and females, and the gene for vasopressin is closely tied to nest-building behavior in mice. The study challenges the idea that experience drives parenting behavior and suggests that genetics play a significant role.
African cichlid fishes evolved cooperative societies primarily due to fear of predators, which reduced their chances of being eaten. This alternative path to cooperation differs from other vertebrates, where relatedness is a key factor.
A recent study published in Nature Ecology and Evolution reveals that rising moisture levels may have contributed to the extinction of giant herbivores approximately 10,000 years ago. Researchers analyzed carbon and nitrogen isotopes in ancient animal bones to infer climate conditions and dietary habits of the megafauna.
A new study confirms that the Arctic Ocean is a dead-end for plastics in the North Atlantic, with high levels found in seas east of Greenland and north of Scandinavia. The research emphasizes the importance of managing plastic litter at its source to prevent unpredictable destinations.
Researchers have identified specific types of bacteria that are abundant in individuals with colorectal cancer. Using a combination of markers, scientists anticipate the development of a noninvasive, sensitive clinical diagnostic test. The study confirms previously reported bacteria and identifies new ones associated with the disease.
Researchers at TSRI have developed a decarboxylative alkenylation method that turns carboxylic acids into olefins in relatively few steps, enabling the discovery and development of new drugs and chemical products. This approach simplifies traditional methods, allowing for better control over molecule geometry and synthesis logic.
A study by Vanderbilt University researchers reveals that man-eating lions' actions were not driven by desperation, but rather a solution to a problem. The analysis found that the lions' teeth showed wear patterns similar to those of zoo lions fed soft foods.
Exposure to childhood adversities such as parental psychiatric disorder and death in the family increases the risk of suicide in adolescence and young adulthood. A study of 548,721 individuals found that those exposed to two or more adversities had a markedly increased risk of suicide.
A new study found that the old drug apomorphine can significantly reduce 'off' times in patients with advanced Parkinson's disease, improving their quality of life. The treatment was effective even after just one week and was well-tolerated.
New research suggests that Australia's desert region has huge potential for growth and development, particularly with investments in renewable energy, housing, and transport. The team aims to create a more livable and prosperous area for existing and new residents, in concert with the preferred lifestyles of Aboriginal peoples.
A substantial proportion of patients prescribed high-intensity statins following a heart attack do not continue taking the medication. High-intensity statin adherence decreases over time, especially among African American and Hispanic patients and those without Medicare/Medicaid coverage or cardiologist visits.
A Washington State University researcher has found that the uterus in female mice contains enzymes that break down semen, making it less gel-like and easier to swim. The study highlights an underappreciated complication in semen liquefaction and could lead to diagnostic tools for unexplained infertility.
Researchers modelled midge swarm cohesion and found that the faster individual midges fly, the stronger gravitational-like force they experience. This speed-dependent force increases with distance from the centre of the swarm.
A team of Penn researchers has pinpointed the underlying mechanism leading to vision loss in Best disease, a condition affecting central vision. They discovered that differences in supporting structures between rods and cones contribute to lesion development in the macula.
A recent study found that companies facing market pressure to meet earnings expectations may compromise on safety, resulting in a 12% higher injury rate for employees. This is due to managers cutting back on safety-related expenditures and increasing employee output, leading to an economic trade-off between profits and worker health.
Researchers at UCR's Bourns College of Engineering turned waste glass bottles into nanosilicon anodes for high-performance lithium-ion batteries. The new battery technology stores more energy, charges faster, and is more stable than commercial coin cell batteries.
A new phosphorus index aims to reduce agricultural runoff pollution by focusing on field characteristics and best management practices. The updated approach addresses limitations of previous indices, providing a more practical tool for farmers and policymakers.
Research at Brigham and Women's Hospital found that Annual Wellness Visit (AWV) use increased from 7.5% to 15.6% between 2011 and 2014, but disparities persist in certain groups. Patients from higher-income areas and those affiliated with Accountable Care Organizations were more likely to receive an AWV.
A recent study by Philip Guo of older adults learning computer programming reveals a diverse range of motivations, including personal enrichment and connecting with younger family members. Despite frustrations with bad pedagogy and lack of real-world relevance, most respondents were eager to learn and saw the value in digital literacy.
Researchers at King's College London used 3D scans to analyze face shapes of nearly 1,000 UK female twins. They found that the shapes of the end of the nose, cheekbones, and inner corner of the eye are highly influenced by genetics. The study published heritability maps, showing specific genes involved in shaping human faces.
Researchers have found that pain relief medication can ease the discomfort of zebrafish larvae, offering a potential replacement for adult fish used in scientific research. This breakthrough reduces animal suffering and paves the way for more humane testing methods.
A new study reveals that a signal in blood, called Hepatocyte Growth Factor Activator (HGFA), can alert stem cells to heal faster and more efficiently after an injury. By injecting HGFA into mice before an injury, researchers showed improved tissue repair, quicker recovery, and better regeneration of damaged tissues.
A study published by the American Academy of Neurology found that individuals with severe brain injuries whose body temperature patterns closely align with a healthy 24-hour rhythm score better on tests of recovery from coma and arousal. Researchers tested bright light stimulation on participants, revealing positive effects in two cases.
A new report emphasizes the importance of prioritizing rapid diagnostic tests for life-saving diseases, similar to pregnancy tests. The tests can help tackle antibiotic resistance and improve global health. However, lack of funding and profile are major barriers to their widespread adoption in low- and middle-income countries.
The American Telemedicine Association has published new guidelines to improve remote stroke care using telemedicine communication technologies. The guidelines describe the network of audio-visual communication systems and computer systems needed to link an expert stroke team with a remote patient, aiming to rapidly diagnose and treat i...
Researchers developed a degradable material using corn starch and metal-organic framework nanoparticles, offering promising properties for electronic substrates and insulators. The material has mechanical, electrical, and flame retardant properties, making it suitable for eco-friendly electronics.
A new study estimates that violent winds and shock waves are the most deadly effects of an asteroid impact, accounting for over 60% of lives lost. The study ranked seven effects associated with asteroid impacts and found that tsunamis accounted for 20% of casualties, while seismic shaking was the least concerning.
Researchers created a set of axioms for robust cooperative strategies, reducing computational hurdles. Players with these strategies and memories of length k cooperate if all players took the same actions for the last k rounds, giving rise to all-or-none strategies.
A study by Hokkaido University researchers found that grouping female American cockroaches promotes asexual egg production, with synchronized egg case delivery in synchrony. The females perceive female-specific chemosensory signals via their antennae, leading to increased fecundity and colony survival.
Researchers found that SLAMF7 is essential for immune cells to target cancer cells, leading to a potential breakthrough in precision medicine. The discovery could help predict which patients will respond to CD47 inhibitors and improve the effectiveness of immunotherapy.
A closed-loop acoustic stimulation brainwave technology significantly reduced symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in a small pilot study. The intervention, high-resolution relational resonance-based electroencephalic mirroring (HIRREM), showed a 89% decrease in symptoms and improved balance in brain pattern activity.
A team of scientists has discovered an antibody that can measure tau levels in the blood, which accurately reflects brain damage. This breakthrough could lead to a non-invasive test for tau-based diseases, monitoring disease progression, and measuring treatment effectiveness.
A new noninvasive imaging test, sestamibi SPECT/CT, has been shown to accurately rule out kidney cancers. The test adds diagnostic information to conventional CT and MRI scans, improving physicians' ability to differentiate between benign and malignant tumors.
A new study shows that investments in adolescent health and wellbeing can generate a 10-fold economic benefit by averting 12 million adolescent deaths and preventing more than 30 million unwanted pregnancies. Investing in secondary education can create 12 million formal jobs for people aged 20-24 years.
Dr. Neville Sanjana, a CRISPR specialist, has received the prestigious 2017 Kimmel Scholar Award to fund his study on cancer immunotherapy. His research aims to leverage CRISPR technology to comprehensively survey mutations that allow cancer cells to resist immunotherapy treatment.
A new study analyzing the teeth of Tsavo's famous man-eaters reveals that dental disease played a significant role in their unusual behavior. The researchers found that the lions' teeth showed less wear and tear than expected, contradicting the hypothesis that they turned to human prey due to food shortages.
A study published in JAMA Surgery found that certain breast cancer patients who achieve pathologic complete response (pCR) after chemotherapy have a low risk of developing local metastases, making them candidates for less invasive treatment options. These patients may be able to avoid follow-up surgery, including axillary surgery.
Scores of undocumented immigrant youth pursuing careers in chemical sciences and related fields face uncertainty due to potential repeal of the DACA policy. Currently, only marrying a U.S. citizen can legalize their status, with limited avenues for education and employment.
A new survey found nearly 700 seasonal systems of interconnected ponds, channels and braided streams fringing Antarctica on all sides. The study reveals that warming projected for this century could quickly magnify the influence of these meltwater systems on sea level.
Two UChicago studies were recognized as among the top three clinical research papers of 2016 by the Clinical Research Forum. Geneticist Carole Ober and immunologist Anne Sperling led a study showing that house dust mites from Amish homes suppressed allergic asthma in young children. Another team, led by pulmonologist John P. Kress, fou...
Case Western Reserve University researcher Martin Basch has been awarded a $300,000 Hartwell Individual Biomedical Research Award to study cell therapies for treating congenital strial deafness. The goal is to restore hearing in children affected by this condition.
Research found that defective HIV proviruses can produce viral proteins, reducing the effective immune response and interfering with HIV cure. This discovery highlights a previously unknown obstacle in HIV treatment and may lead to new courses of therapy.
Researchers analyzed 270 studies and found a mixed picture of nanoparticles' behavior, with their reactions depending on acidity, mineral concentration, and organic substances. The data is inconsistent, insufficiently diverse, and poorly structured, hindering universal predictions.
Researchers developed and evaluated MyFamilyPlan, a web-based preconception health education module. The study found that women who used the online format were about twice as likely to discuss preconception health with their doctors. This increase in discussions was associated with improved patient care.
A recent study found that female student-athletes who engage in community service and civic engagement are less likely to use dangerous substances. The research suggests that helping others can create positive change in the community and reduce stress-related substance abuse.
The new Clinical Practice Guidelines define the use of diagnostic, therapeutic and preventive modalities in managing patients with various liver diseases. The guidelines provide a range of generally accepted approaches for the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of specific liver diseases.
Active commuting by cycling is associated with substantial health benefits, including lower risks of cardiovascular disease and mortality. Walking also shows benefits, but only if done for more than six miles a week.
The American Association for Thoracic Surgery has released a new consensus statement on surgical ablation for atrial fibrillation, emphasizing its safety and effectiveness in reducing early death and late stroke risk. The guidelines also recommend hybrid procedures, optimal ablation tools, and standardized training.
A new study found that plant protein was associated with a lower risk of type 2 diabetes, while persons with a diet rich in meat had a higher risk. Replacing animal protein with plant protein can reduce diabetes risk by 18% daily.
Researchers at the University of Maryland have identified how Pseudomonas aeruginosa uses tension-activated membrane channels to resist osmotic downshocks. The bacterium's ability to survive sudden changes in water content is crucial for its persistence in various environments.
New EPA regulations may reduce methane emissions by 27%, but achieve only 20-50% of expected reductions. Researchers recommend a regional approach to addressing methane leaks and adopting more effective detection technologies.
Researchers have mapped transport in mammalian axons for the first time, revealing a crucial protein called MAP2 that regulates molecular movement. The discovery provides new insights into neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's.
The American Physiological Society's (APS) Porter Physiology Development Fellowship has supported 140 minority doctoral and postdoctoral researchers in the study of physiological sciences. Since its inception in 1967, the program has increased diversity in physiology and within APS membership.
MIT engineers developed a technique using graphene to transfer crystalline patterns onto semiconductor wafers, reducing wafer costs and opening opportunities for exotic materials. The method allows manufacturers to copy and peel off semiconducting layers, reusing the original wafer multiple times.
A team of researchers at Duke University created a cartilage-mimicking material that can be 3D-printed to match the strength and elasticity of human cartilage, potentially easing damaged knees. The new material is custom-shaped to each patient's anatomy, providing improved shock absorption and reducing pain.
Researchers at Osaka University discovered how specific genes regulate B cell cycling in germinal centers. They found that Foxo1 promotes B cell proliferation, but its activation is associated with lymphomas. Reviving BATF levels recovered the proliferation of Foxo1-deficient B cells.
A new type of footprint made by 247-million-year-old reptiles has been discovered in the Pyrenees. The discovery suggests that archosauromorphs played a large role in vertebrate recovery following the Permian mass extinction.
Scientists at USC Loker Hydrocarbon Research Institute have created a new method to generate hydrogen fuel from methanol, producing a carbon-neutral and potentially carbon-positive energy source. The research aims to develop renewable sources of energy that can mitigate climate change and reduce dependence on fossil fuels.
A study published in BMC Psychiatry found that individuals with post-traumatic stress symptoms experienced significant clinical improvements after using HIRREM, a computer-based closed-loop neurotechnology. The technology uses real-time brain activity monitoring and algorithmic analysis to produce personalized acoustic stimulation, res...
Researchers at Penn State have developed a method to create personalized mental and physical therapy regimens using gaming features. Gamified applications with scoring systems, avatars, and in-game rewards led to significantly fewer mistakes and higher performance than non-gamified applications.
Research finds that large-scale irrigation in the Yellow River basin leads to a decrease in surface air temperature and an increase in latent heat flux, resulting in greater cloud formation. This has a significant impact on regional climate and precipitation patterns.
Researchers at Lomonosov Moscow State University have discovered how to protect yeast cells from invasion by selfish mitochondrial DNA molecules. Using uncouplers, which decrease the efficiency of mitochondrial energy conversion, functional mtDNA outcompetes harmful mtDNA variants in a process called mitochondrial turnover.
A new species of extinct carnivorous mammal, Masrasector nananubis, was identified in Egyptian fossils dating back 34 million years. The hyaenodont was a teratodontine with largely complete skulls and limb bones.
Researchers identified a protein, TIMP2, that had the same effect when injected into older mice. The findings could lead to new treatments for age-associated declines in mental ability.
A skin model made from gelatine can simulate human skin's characteristics and frictional behavior against textiles in dry and hydrated conditions. This allows for early rejection of unsuitable textiles without exposing humans to risk, saving time and resources.
A new analysis of Medicare's Hospital Compare portal found that the statistical methodology used to rate and compare hospitals underestimates mortality rates of acute myocardial infarction (AMI) at small hospitals. The research proposes an alternative model that incorporates additional factors such as hospital volume, nursing staff, an...
Scientists at UC Riverside's Akbari lab have successfully created a strain of red-eyed mutant wasps using CRISPR gene-slicing technology. The goal is to better understand the biology of wasps and other insects to control pests that destroy crops or spread diseases like malaria.
Researchers at Columbia University have developed a new optical microscopy platform with drastically enhanced detection sensitivity, allowing for simultaneous labeling and imaging of up to 24 specific biomolecules. This breakthrough has the potential to transform understanding of complex biological systems, including the human cell map...
A study by PSE Healthy Energy found that many hazardous chemicals used in hydraulic fracturing are also used in routine oil- and gas-field activities, including drilling, cleaning, and maintenance. These findings have major implications for chemical disclosure policies and risk assessments of oil and gas development.
A team of researchers has identified a rare human mutation that causes a devastating neurological disease, similar to conditions affecting the production and maintenance of myelin in rats. The discovery provides a new model for understanding and treating these diseases.
A large-scale study found three clinical decision rules to be effective in identifying children at low risk of traumatic brain injury, potentially reducing unnecessary CT scans. The PECARN rule from the US was shown to be most accurate, with no missed cases requiring neurosurgery.
Researchers at Duke-NUS Medical School and Genome Institute of Singapore have identified altered promoters in gastric cancer that change gene expression profiles, enabling tumors to evade the immune system. The study's findings may lead to new approaches for cancer immunotherapy treatment.
According to a new analysis, health spending is expected to increase rapidly in high-income countries, while low-income countries are projected to see relatively slow growth. This could lead to rising out-of-pocket costs for people in emerging economies, leaving the poorest unable to afford care.
A University of Illinois study reveals which production attributes matter most to consumers when buying beef and chicken, with 'no growth hormones' topping the list. The study found that organic was ranked lowest in importance, sparking surprise among researchers who attribute this to a lack of understanding about the term's meaning.
Researchers found that defective forms of HIV create proteins recognized by cytotoxic T cells, which can distract the immune system from functional viruses. This discovery could help develop a vaccine to boost immunity against HIV.
Scientists assessed the state of space weather research, including geomagnetically induced currents (GICs) that can disrupt power systems, railroads, and pipelines. GICs can cause temporary blackouts and mis-operation of railway signaling systems.
A new study found that drinking beetroot juice before exercise improves brain connectivity and efficiency in older adults, similar to those of younger brains. The researchers also discovered higher levels of nitrate and nitrite in the blood after exercising with beetroot juice compared to placebo groups.
A study found that outpatient laparoscopic appendectomy is safe and effective, with shorter hospital stays and decreased healthcare costs. The study showed no differences in complications, post-discharge ER visits, or readmissions between the outpatient and hospital-stay groups.