A recent study finds that urban centers like Hong Kong can play a crucial role in conserving globally threatened species. Introduced populations of these species have been thriving outside their native habitats, providing an opportunity to augment declining populations in their native ranges and mitigate threats to local ecosystems.
A recent study published in Springer's journal Sex Roles found that awareness campaigns targeting women can be a powerful tool to encourage collective action against female sexual objectification. The research revealed that watching a critique video clip increased women's willingness to support protests, whereas men showed no such effect.
A new study published in Nature finds that hurricanes approaching the US coast are more likely to intensify during less active Atlantic periods, contradicting previous assumptions about hurricane behavior. This discovery suggests that coastal regions may be better protected by quieter periods in the basin.
Scientists have developed a new technique to examine blood vessels in the brain using 3D Image Analysis, allowing for greater understanding of how diseases like dementia, brain cancer, and stroke affect veins and capillaries. This innovative method could help identify early warning signs of these illnesses, potentially saving lives.
Researchers found that cell phones distract individuals with lower internet usage, impairing attention and judgment. Heavy internet users, however, use mobile phones as spatial cues to enhance visual search.
A researcher at the University of Kansas is examining the role of nonprofits in community cohesion and recovery after the Deepwater Horizon oil spill. The study aims to reveal the social-ecological drivers of response and current extent of recovery in approximately 92 communities using data from various disciplines.
Researchers have pinpointed the location in the sky of a Fast Radio Burst (FRB), allowing them to determine the distance and home galaxy of one of these mysterious pulses of radio waves. The precise location enables observations using multiple telescopes, which revealed a faint dwarf galaxy at the location of the bursts.
A PLOS study found that Neotropical spotted cat species are drawn to protected areas, with habitat preferences playing less of a role than protection status in determining their distribution. The study suggests maintaining and creating reserves can help conserve the species.
A recent study published in Annals of Emergency Medicine reports a case of a 6-year-old child who ingested liquid nicotine from an e-cigarette, requiring intubation and ICU admission. The patient's mother had mixed the liquid herself, resulting in a highly concentrated substance that caused severe symptoms and altered mental status.
A recent study published in Neurology found that adhering to a Mediterranean diet can help maintain brain volume in older adults. The study, which followed 967 Scottish people aged 70 for three years, revealed that those who followed the diet more closely retained more brain volume than those who did not.
The Lucy spacecraft will launch in 2021 and fly by six Trojan asteroids between 2025 and 2033, studying their geology, surface composition, and bulk properties. The mission aims to decipher the history of the solar system and provide critical knowledge about planetary origins.
A systematic review of screening tests and interventions for type 2 diabetes prevention found low diagnostic accuracy, with lifestyle interventions showing a 37% reduction in relative risk. Population-wide approaches may be more effective than screen and treat policies alone.
A new study reveals that a minor pilin protein triggers pilus retraction in Vibrio cholerae, differing from other disease-causing bacteria. This discovery advances understanding of Type IV pili function and may aid in developing prevention and treatment strategies for cholera.
A new study using independent data from satellites and robotic floats confirms that the oceans have warmed at a rate of 0.12 degrees Celsius per decade since 2000, nearly twice as fast as earlier estimates. This finding eliminates much of the global warming hiatus, which was attributed to biases in ship measurements.
A study of 6.6 million people found that those living within 50 meters of a major road had a small increased risk of developing dementia, with up to 7-11% cases potentially attributed to traffic exposure. The study also found no link between traffic exposure and Parkinson's disease or multiple sclerosis.
A new study by Joslin Diabetes Center shows that participants in the Why WAIT weight loss program experienced reduced cardiovascular disease risks and improved insulin sensitivity even five years after completing the intervention. The study found that maintaining a 7% weight loss was a good predictor of long-term weight loss success.
A new study maps species threat hotspots across the globe, connecting consumer purchases to environmental impacts. The research found that US consumption caused hotspot zones in Southeast Asia, Madagascar, and southern Europe, among other regions.
Researchers at Brown University have discovered the optimal shape of sea sponge spicules, which provides a blueprint for increasing buckling resistance in human-made structures. The tapered shape, similar to a Clausen column, offers improved buckling resistance due to its consistent and nearly identical dimensions.
A study published in JAMA Cardiology found that only 32% of patients between 30-39 years old with high LDL-C levels were prescribed statins. For those aged 40-49, the rate was 47%, while for those over 50, it was 61%. This suggests a significant gap in treatment for younger adults with severe dyslipidemia.
A recent study found that girls from low-income families in the US are unprepared for puberty, with many reporting negative experiences during this transition. The research highlights the need for more robust interventions to support and provide information about puberty for low-income girls.
Researchers from the University of Cincinnati and others received monetary awards from PETA for contributing to the development of Adverse Outcome Pathways. These pathways help scientists design animal-free testing approaches to predict adverse effects and protect human health.
Researchers found that human pyramidal neurons have a specific membrane capacitance that is half of the universal value for biological membranes, improving signal processing and communication within and between cortical neurons. This unique property may be an evolutionary adaptation to compensate for the larger brain and cells in humans.
Larger males breed first, with offspring having better survival rates and producing more newborns, suggesting a clear reproductive advantage. This study shows the complexity of sexual selection in reverse in pipefish, highlighting factors beyond size and timing.
Researchers developed biocompatible scaffolds with controlled-release silver ions to inhibit MRSA bone infection. The antimicrobial properties of silver combined with bone-forming stem cells offer a potential implant system for treating and preventing bone infections.
Researchers at the University Health Network found that a single fecal transplant is not more effective than the standard of care in treating recurrent C. difficile infection. The study's results suggest that more research is needed to determine the effectiveness and long-term implications of fecal transplantation.
Researchers have developed an artificial leaf that converts sunlight into hydrogen fuel with improved efficiency, mimicking the natural process of underwater photosynthesis. This breakthrough has significant implications for reducing carbon dioxide emissions and providing a cheap, stable hydrogen fuel source.
A high-fiber diet triggers microorganisms in the gut to produce short-chain fatty acids, which induce neutrophil apoptosis and resolution of inflammation. This finding has important implications for treating gout and possibly other inflammatory diseases.
Researchers at Rockefeller University have identified a single mutation that enables bacteria to acquire genetic memories of viruses 100 times more frequently than naturally. This breakthrough could facilitate the creation of CRISPR-based recording systems for various applications, including data storage and cancer research.
A new study confirms the steady warming of oceans over the past 75 years, with a rate of 0.12 degrees Celsius per decade since 1997, contradicting claims of a global warming 'hiatus'. The research uses data from buoys, satellites, and Argo floats to support the NOAA findings, providing accurate measurements of ocean temperatures.
Lucy will be the first spacecraft to study six Trojan asteroids orbiting Jupiter, providing insights into the solar system's origins. The mission aims to decipher the history of the outer planets and understand the causes of differences between Trojans.
Researchers found that observing trauma can change brain information flow, making individuals more vulnerable to mental disorders like PTSD. The study suggests witnessing fear can physically redistribute brain signals, potentially enabling new communications and shedding light on the disorder's causes.
A recent study suggests that warmer oceans and increased rainfall will lead to more intense typhoons in the western Pacific. The research found that a lack of ocean water mixing, caused by freshwater from increased rainfall, can increase storm intensity.
Specific Technologies has developed a new paradigm for quantitative determination of antibiotic efficacy with minimal sample preparation and at a low cost. The SpeciFAST system offers phenotypic MIC matching CLSI gold standard results in most cases within 3 hours from positive blood culture.
A new study found that Michigan's Medicaid expansion has boosted the state's economy and budget, generating over $2.3 billion in personal spending power each year. The program is expected to continue having a self-paying effect for at least five years, with the state ending up with more money than it spends.
Researchers at Southern Methodist University have discovered a new catalyst that can efficiently break the tough molecular bond between carbon and hydrogen. This breakthrough could lead to a cleaner, easier, and cheaper way to derive products from petroleum, with copper-based catalysts showing great promise in oxidizing C-H bonds.
Scientists have discovered a unique 'gear' in the molecular motor protein KlpA that enables it to switch direction of movement, allowing chromosomes to be properly divided during cell division. This finding could lead to novel treatments for certain types of cancers.
Researchers found that individuals with specific musical anhedonia showed reduced connectivity between auditory processing and the Nucleus Accumbens, a key reward structure. In contrast, those with high music sensitivity demonstrated enhanced connectivity, highlighting different pathways to reward for music and other stimuli.
Researchers at UNC-Chapel Hill have developed a breakthrough technique that uses light to activate a drug stored in circulating red blood cells. This method could drastically reduce the amount of a drug needed to treat disease and thus side effects.
Chemists at UTA are developing new methods to synthesize organosilanes, a class of compounds in high demand for pharmaceutical and medical applications. The goal is to provide fast, cost-effective routes to these compounds using single-pot synthesis with transition metal catalysts.
A new smartphone app called Cigbreak Free has been developed to help smokers quit by incorporating behavioral change techniques into a game-like interface. The app uses 37 evidence-based methods to encourage users to progress through levels and gain rewards, making it easier for them to stick to their New Year's resolutions.
A group of climate scientists analyzed the scientific work and expert judgments behind the IPCC's 2°C warming scenario, revealing that updated findings support the original conclusions. The researchers aimed to increase transparency in climate projections, enabling policymakers to make informed decisions.
A third of Clinical Commissioning Groups (CCGs) in England are using private companies to screen patient referrals from GPs to specialist services. While some schemes aim to reduce costs, others improve referral quality. However, most CCGs lack evidence on whether their schemes have saved money overall.
A national sample of post-9/11 veterans found that most successfully navigate the transition to civilian life, with high employment rates and job satisfaction. However, PTSD was associated with impairments in work and family functioning, highlighting the need for interventions to mitigate its negative effects.
A study published in Journal of Clinical Oncology found that new therapies for non-small cell lung cancer resulted in a median 1.5-month survival increase, but this gain was largely offset by higher outpatient spending due to the expensive medications.
A 280 million-year-old fossilized skull reveals the origin of chimaeras, a group of cartilaginous fish related to sharks. The discovery provides crucial evidence for the evolutionary history of these deep-water dwelling fish.
The Journal of the Optical Society of America B published a special feature on nonlinear optics near the fundamental limit, covering second-order and third-order nonlinear interactions. Researchers studied molecular conjugation length for optimal performance in donor-acceptor molecules.
A new research from Michigan Medicine supports combining immune checkpoint blockade with gene therapy to fight gliomas. The approach showed stronger results when used in combination with either depletion of immunosuppressive cells or immune checkpoint blockade.
A study at Southern Methodist University found that parents and nonparents alike rate spanking as more common, acceptable, and effective than corporal punishment. Researchers suggest changing semantics of discipline to reduce violence and prevent harm to children.
Researchers found a relationship between increased cortisol response to stress and gastrointestinal symptoms in children with autism. Individuals with autism who experienced frequent constipation and abdominal pain had greater cortisol levels in response to stress.
UNIST's School of Design and Human Engineering has received four Spark Design Awards for its innovative designs, including the Babyking robotic baby crib and Plant Diary IoT plant monitor. The awards recognize the school's talent in creating a better world through design excellence.
Scientists compiled data on original Hydroides names and published a checklist paper revealing the genus is feminine, leading to re-examination of 107 species. The study provides insight into the origin of species names, including those based on descriptive characteristics or people/places.
A new study published in PLOS ONE raises doubts about the effectiveness of Diclectin, a widely prescribed medication for nausea in pregnancy. The study's flaws, including incomplete data and flawed scoring methods, cast uncertainty over its benefits.
A study from Northwestern University found that preterm infants establish a strong foundation for linking language and meaning, similar to their full-term counterparts. This discovery challenges previous obstacles in language and cognitive development observed in preterm infants.
A study of over 6.5 million Ontario residents found that those living within 50 meters of high-traffic roads had a seven percent higher likelihood of developing dementia compared to those further away. The risk increased with proximity, but not for Parkinson's disease or multiple sclerosis.
Researchers found that both crops successfully sequestered more carbon in the soil than was lost from the soil surface, with sugarcane storing three times as much carbon. Deficit irrigation boosted soil carbon sequestration but reduced yield.
Researchers at Joslin Diabetes Center have identified a key role for the SHP-1 enzyme in stent failure in people with diabetes. By suppressing smooth muscle cell growth, SHP-1 may lead to more effective surgical stents.
Researchers at Columbia University have developed a method to manufacture microscale-sized machines from biomaterials that can safely be implanted in the body. The technique uses hydrogels and stacks them in layers to create devices with three-dimensional, freely moving parts.
Researchers developed an engine for likelihood-free inference (ELFI) to model reality accurately in simulators, significantly reducing the number of simulator runs. This facilitates more effective simulation and opens up new possibilities for fields like medicine and environmental science.
Engineers at Duke University and the University of Washington propose a flat-screen wireless charging system using metamaterials. The technology can charge devices within a room, eliminating cord hassles and power shortages.
Astronomers have discovered a rare Hoag-type galaxy with two circular rings, providing unique insights into galaxy formation and evolution. The galaxy's inner ring is older than its outer ring, suggesting different formation histories for the two components.
The new position paper provides recommendations on the timing and content of introducing complementary foods, as well as methods of feeding and specific dietary practices. It emphasizes the importance of ensuring adequate iron intake from complementary foods for all infants, especially those on vegetarian diets.
A critical care medicine physician describes her near-death experience inspiring an organizational campaign to improve communication and empathy among health professionals. The Henry Ford Hospital has launched a curriculum aimed at fostering compassionate, coordinated care.
A new study suggests that the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC) may not be as stable as previously thought, with changes occurring abruptly in geologic terms. The research predicts a potential collapse of the AMOC system, which could have significant implications for regional and global climate change.
Researchers tracked three migratory bird species and found they adjust their routes to match future changes in food availability. By 2080, climate change may make it challenging for birds to find sufficient resources, posing a threat to their survival.
Researchers found that atrial fibrillation patients are more likely to discontinue warfarin therapy if they've had a recent procedure. The study analyzed 734 patients and found that over half were off warfarin within a year of starting it, with procedures being the most common reason for discontinuation.
Scientists at the University of York have developed a new antibiotic for gonorrhoea by harnessing the therapeutic effects of carbon monoxide-releasing molecules. The treatment targets the bacteria's energy production, preventing it from respiring oxygen and ultimately leading to its death.
Researchers at Michigan State University have discovered a chemical compound that can stop the spread of melanoma cells by up to 90 percent. The compound targets a gene's ability to produce RNA molecules and proteins in melanoma tumors, effectively shutting down the disease's progression.
A weakened form of the malaria parasite safely activated strong immune responses in healthy volunteers, whose antibodies completely protected mice from malaria infection. The GAP3KO vaccine candidate has shown promising results and will move forward to a phase 1b trial using controlled human malaria infection.
A pilot study found yoga interventions improved health-related QOL for children with cancer and their families, including social and emotional well-being. Certified yoga instructors delivered the program in various settings, tailored to the children's physical condition or mobility issues.
Researchers found that users who are actively shopping in a category are more likely to search for any brand, but as users move from recognition to purchase intent, they become increasingly more likely to search for the specific brand. Brand owners are also more likely to search for their brand, even when not actively shopping.
A new study by Lily Fang of INSEAD found that China's success in innovation is hindered by weak intellectual property protection, which leads to lower quality patents and fewer international citations. The study suggests that improving IP protection is crucial for China's sustainable growth
Researchers found eelgrass population stable across Puget Sound basin despite increased human population and shoreline development. Localized declines have been observed at individual beaches, with other shorelines showing healthy eelgrass growth.
Researchers analyzed 559 esophageal and gastric cancer samples to discover two main types of esophageal cancer differ markedly in molecular characteristics. The study suggests grouping patients according to molecular subtype for more effective clinical trials and new treatment approaches.
Research suggests that hurricanes approaching the US coast are more likely to intensify during less active Atlantic periods, weakening instead of strengthening. This relationship accounts for part of the weak correlation between Atlantic hurricane activity and major landfalls.
A review of dermatology clinical trials found that racial and ethnic groups are underrepresented among study participants, with most being white. The lack of diversity is attributed to inadequate reporting of ethnicity and race, which may lead to a more homogenous population. To address this issue, the review suggests prioritizing raci...
Study findings reveal that IL-7 and IL-15 signal Th17 cells to chronically reside in the body, contributing to autoimmune disorders. The study suggests targeting these cytokines may lead to new therapies for chronic autoimmune diseases.
A clinical trial with human volunteers has found a next-generation malaria vaccine to be well-tolerated and stimulate an appropriate immune response. The vaccine uses genetically attenuated parasites that are incapable of multiplying in the human liver but effectively stimulate the immune system.
People over 85 are more likely to experience social exclusion, with increased difficulty accessing healthcare and social opportunities. Researchers call for improved technology access and government support to help older adults maintain social connections and care.
Researchers found that adding cone-like structures between graphene and nanotubes enhances heat dissipation by reducing the number of heptagons. This could lead to improved performance in next-generation nano-electronics.
Duke University researchers have developed a new approach to deep brain stimulation that reduces energy consumption by up to 75% without compromising treatment efficacy. The algorithm uses computational evolution to design tailored patterns for individual patients, leading to improved symptoms and reduced battery replacement procedures.
A new study from the University of Eastern Finland found that vitamin D deficiency may increase the risk of chronic headache. Men with lower serum vitamin D levels reported more frequent headaches.
Researchers at Scripps Florida have developed a new protease tool to study protein structure and post-translational modifications, which can alter protein stability and function. The new tool helps shed light on these chemical changes and could lead to new tools for mass spectrometry.
Michigan State University has secured a $1 million USAID grant to build a mosquito factory in Yucatan, Mexico, to combat the Zika virus. The project aims to use Wolbachia bacteria to reduce mosquito populations and prevent disease transmission.
Researchers found that three Amazonian species have lost or disabled genes for detecting short wavelengths of light, allowing them to thrive in the murky environment. The study reveals a unique genetic adaptation that enables these fish to perceive their surroundings differently.
Researchers successfully grew functional human stomach and intestinal tissues using pluripotent stem cells, enabling the study of diseases such as gastric cancer. The discovery allows for the modeling of new treatments and understanding of human development and health.
A team of researchers has localized the source of a Fast Radio Burst (FRB) to an older dwarf galaxy over 3 billion light years away. The galaxy is believed to harbor a supermassive black hole and may be connected to other energetic events such as supernovae and gamma-ray bursts.
Researchers at Penn State have developed a novel biodegradable nanoparticle-based system that utilizes immune cells to target and deliver cancer-fighting drugs directly to tumors. This innovative approach combines the body's natural immune response with targeted delivery, showing promise for effective treatment of various cancers.
A new study suggests that fewer people perceive e-cigarettes as a safer alternative to smoking tobacco, dropping from 50% in 2012 to 43% in 2014. The researchers found no association between awareness of e-cigarettes and attempts at quitting among current smokers.
The Arctic coast's thawing permafrost leads to increased erosion, releasing greenhouse gases and nutrients into the sea. This alters ecosystems, affects traditional fishing grounds, and impacts the Arctic population's way of life.
A randomized, Phase III study will enroll 600 people with suboptimal diets to evaluate the effects of a specific diet on cognitive abilities and brain health. The MIND diet, which includes foods like fish, berries, nuts, and leafy greens, aims to improve brain health by developing new dietary guidelines.
Researchers at the University of Nottingham have created a technique to produce chemically functionalised spider silk that can be tailored for drug delivery, regenerative medicine, and wound healing. The synthetic silk can be 'clicked' with antibiotics or fluorescent dyes using 'click-chemistry', allowing for controlled release.
A new crystal structure of organic-inorganic hybrid materials has been discovered, offering promise for the development of optoelectronic devices such as light-emitting diodes and lasers. The material displays interesting optical properties, including high photo luminescence, making it a potential candidate for efficient light emission.
Researchers at University of Chicago and Wayne State University reaffirm the reliability of Type Ia supernovae for measuring cosmic distances. The findings contradict recent claims that these supernovae are inconsistent in their brightness.
Cornell University researchers have identified a distant cosmic source of 'fast radio bursts' emitting massive energy pulses from across the universe, exceeding 3 billion light-years away.
Researchers found that the Inuit gut microbiome is remarkably similar to that of urbanized Westerners, with subtle differences in relative abundances of individual taxa. Dietary fiber is identified as a major factor driving the overall composition of the microbiome.
Researchers developed a sensor that uses Raman spectroscopy to detect molecular markers of IBD in the colon, helping to distinguish between ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease. The device could provide an objective gold standard for diagnosis and guide personalized treatment approaches.
A team of researchers from York University, NASA, and Johns Hopkins University have identified icy features on Pluto, including penitentes, which are bowl-shaped depressions with spires around the edge. The study suggests that these features may exist on other planets where environmental conditions are similar.
A new study found humpback whales traveling further in the southwest Indian Ocean than previously thought, revealing important breeding habitats off Madagascar. The research also showed different movement patterns for males and females, with potential implications for conservation efforts.
A new study by Duke University found that increasing politicians' pay does not encourage more working-class people to run for office. Research shows that high-paying jobs attract professionals rather than lower-paid individuals, making it difficult for blue-collar workers to break into politics.
Katherine High discusses gene therapy progress for hemophilia and inherited retinal disorders, highlighting key scientific, regulatory, and commercial challenges. Her leadership in the field has been critical to its current success.
A new study by Drexel University found that lower neighborhood socioeconomic status increases heart disease and stroke risk among black residents. Every step down on an established disadvantage scale resulted in a 25% increase in risk of cardiovascular disease.
Patients with mental health emergencies in Massachusetts wait an average of 16.5 hours for hospital admission and 21.5 hours for transfer to another facility compared to 4.2 hours for medical patients.