The study suggests that a hominin migration out of Africa occurred between 470,000 and 220,000 years ago, introducing their mitochondrial DNA to the Neanderthal population. This event reconciles discrepancies in nuclear and mitochondrial DNA phylogenies, providing new insights into human evolution.
Researchers at Linköping University have successfully applied a thin layer of a ferroelectric material to control electronic nonlinearity in ion-doped conducting polymers. This breakthrough enables precise switching of transistors and color changes in displays, opening up new possibilities for applications in printed electronics.
The AAS Special Issue on the Chinese Carbon Budget Program presents research on accurate estimation of national GHG emissions, terrestrial carbon budget, and potential for increasing carbon sinks. Eight papers cover various topics, including aerosols, airborne observations, and CO2 monitoring from space.
A new academic report from Queen Mary University of London recommends that the UK prioritize and protect labor rights in post-Brexit trade agreements. The report argues that the UK should not engage in a 'race to the bottom' to improve competitiveness, but rather seek to maintain or improve existing labor protections.
A new pestivirus, LINDA virus, has been discovered in Austrian pigs, causing severe shaking and damage to the brain and spinal cord. The virus is distantly related to classical swine fever and its discovery highlights the need for further research into its prevalence and potential impact on pig breeding.
Researchers are exploring the potential of mollusc shells to restore damaged oyster reefs and cultivate new oysters. The shells contain over 95% calcium carbonate, a valuable biomaterial used in various applications, offering a sustainable alternative to mined limestone.
A new study by Dr Nick Pullen and his team reveals that plant growth is actually 'sink-limited', meaning genetic regulation and cell division rates control growth. This finding has significant implications for the agricultural industry, including potential improvements in crop yields and climate modeling.
A new study challenges the long-debated 'late equals large' hypothesis, which proposes that brain proportions are shaped by a universal rule related to size. The research found that this hypothesis does not work when considering brain growth in different mammals, including marsupials.
A team of researchers has visualized the previously unexplored surface of lithium titanate, a rare spinel oxide superconductor with high superconducting transition temperature. Their study provides new directions for interface research, including understanding electrode surfaces and mechanisms behind lithium-ion battery operations.
New research found a link between reduced tariffs on high-fructose corn syrup (HFCS) and higher caloric sweetener intake in Canada. The study suggests that trade agreements like NAFTA may contribute to increased exposure to unhealthy food items, particularly those containing HFCS.
Plesiosaurs' long necks may have been a hydrodynamic advantage, allowing them to move slowly and float comfortably. The location of the bend in their necks could also impact drag, leading to more patient hunting styles like modern crocodiles.
A new study published in Frontiers in Behavioral Neuroscience found that hormonal changes during the menstrual cycle have no impact on working memory, cognitive bias, or ability to pay attention. The study followed 68 women across two consecutive menstrual cycles and found no replicable effects of hormones on cognition.
Researchers at Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology have developed a novel method to control cellular fate by introducing organelle-localized self-assembly of peptide amphiphiles. This approach enables targeted cancer chemotherapy by activating the intrinsic apoptotic pathway against cancer cells, reducing side effects.
A study published in PNAS found that early environmental exposures predict DNA methylation of inflammatory genes, leading to increased inflammation and disease risk in adulthood. Nutritional, microbial, and psychosocial factors in infancy are associated with epigenetic changes that shape inflammation and health.
Two studies found that insulin degludec reduced hypoglycemic episodes and severe hypoglycemia in patients with Type 1 or 2 diabetes, compared to insulin glargine U100. The trials involved over 800 adults and had mixed results.
A new dataset provides improved representation of solar variability, enabling more accurate climate model simulations and distinguishing natural from anthropogenic processes. The dataset includes enhanced estimates of solar forcing and particle effects, which may counteract rising Earth temperatures.
Researchers at Temple University have identified a novel mechanism underlying the efficacy of common heart failure drug beta-blockers. The study reveals that dysfunctional beta-adrenergic receptor 3 and decreased levels of cardioprotective phospholipid sphingosine 1-phosphate contribute to treatment resistance in some patients.
Researchers at IST Austria and Nvidia introduce a novel representation of waves that improves visual detail and user control while reducing computing cost. The method allows for more versatile and physically plausible simulations with minimal extra work.
A Penn study found a 189% increase in multiple recurring Clostridium difficile infections from 2001 to 2012, highlighting the growing need for effective treatments. Fecal microbiota transplantation shows promise but requires further evaluation for long-term safety.
Research sheds light on how conserved mechanism regulates development and cancer; implications for new cancer therapies. TUTase enzymes interact with let-7, a small RNA molecule important in development and cancer.
A new study from Washington University School of Medicine links popular heartburn drugs to an increased risk of death, particularly among those using the medications for extended periods. The research found that users of proton pump inhibitors had a 25% higher risk of death compared to those taking H2 blockers.
The infant mortality rate for black infants decreased from 14.3 to 11.6 per 1,000 births from 2005 to 2012, then plateaued before increasing again from 2014 to 2015. In contrast, white infant mortality rates declined steadily over the same period. The study highlights the need for targeted interventions, particularly reducing preterm b...
Research reveals that naturally produced testosterone in some elite female athletes gives them a competitive advantage in athletics events that depend on stamina and visuospatial abilities. Women with high levels of free testosterone performed significantly better in certain events, such as the 400m sprint and hammer throw.
A study of 3,904 men found no association between high school football participation and later-life cognitive impairment or depression. This challenges previous concerns about the sport's safety, particularly regarding chronic traumatic encephalopathy and concussion risks.
A new study finds that increased air pollution particles in the air can cut life expectancy by 9-11 years, with a significant difference in estimated costs between the US and EU. The study uses a lifetable of 100,000 people to simulate the effect of long-term exposure to increased air pollution.
A new study reveals that a mass extinction 66 million years ago sparked an explosion of new frog species on different continents. The research, compiled by scientists from the University of Texas at Austin and other institutions, provides the most accurate frog family tree to date.
Researchers from Stockholm University found that the inorganic component of sea spray particles takes up less water, resulting in smaller particle size and reduced sunlight reflection. This discovery challenges existing climate models and highlights the importance of understanding sea spray's role in the atmosphere.
A new study urges the UNESCO World Heritage Convention to better conserve wilderness areas by designating Natural World Heritage Sites (NWHS). Only 1.8% of the world's wilderness is currently protected, highlighting broad gaps in conservation coverage across the globe.
Researchers measured habitat fragmentation for over 4,000 species of land-dwelling mammals and found that species with more fragmentation are at greater risk of extinction. The study has implications for global mammal conservation, suggesting urgent action is needed to protect remnant habitats and restore connectivity.
A school-based intervention that administers morning doses of inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) to children with persistent asthma has shown improved adherence and quality-of-life outcomes. The study, published in the Journal of Asthma, found that 90% of participants received their prescribed morning doses through school administration.
Researchers have discovered rare gene variants in Finnish mothers that protect them from pre-eclampsia. The study found two single nucleotide polymorphisms in the sFlt-1 protein gene linked to lower risk of pre-eclampsia.
Scientists at the University of Bradford have developed TRAPT, a measurement for assessing urban environments' relaxation levels. The tool helps planners and architects understand the impact of 'greening' measures on public spaces, aiming to create more tranquil environments.
A higher number of eggs retrieved in IVF treatment is linked to more chromosomally normal embryos available for transfer. The benefit of a greater oocyte yield decreases with advancing female age.
Scientists create a polyacrylamide hydrogel electrolyte that enables supercapacitors to be stretched up to 1000% in length and compressed by 50% in thickness without losing capacity. This flexibility makes the supercapacitor suitable for wearable electronics.
Muscles require energy to perform daily movements, and researchers have found a pathway that regulates fuel delivery based on activity level. The discovery is dependent on circadian rhythms and could impact obesity in humans.
Scientists have discovered that nearly all beech trees in Scotland are derived from native populations, suggesting they should be considered native to the country. The study challenges current woodland management practices and highlights the need to reassess the distinctiveness of native Scottish forests.
A large population study found that female cancer survivors are 38% less likely to achieve a pregnancy than women in the general population. The detrimental effect on fertility was evident in almost all types of cancer diagnosed, with variations between different cancer diagnoses.
The Damon Runyon Cancer Research Foundation awarded $3.1M to five new Clinical Investigators and Continuation Grants to three existing recipients. The winners are conducting groundbreaking research in pancreatic cancer, glioblastoma, and leptomeningeal metastasis.
Research reveals bark beetles create roosting and foraging opportunities for protected bat species like Barbastella barbastellus. The findings have important implications for forest conservation, highlighting the need to reassess standard management practices.
Researchers have developed a quantum probe to perform microwave-free NMR at the nanoscale, overcoming limitations of conventional methods. This technique enables non-invasive detection of nuclear spins in smaller volumes, potentially revolutionizing biotechnology and materials science.
Researchers find 10,900-year-old stone tool with potato starch residues, revealing the earliest evidence of wild potato use in North America. The discovery sheds light on ancient human diets and could hold potential for improving modern potato crops.
A consortium of researchers has performed a comprehensive genomic sequencing analysis of hundreds of patients with T-lineage acute lymphoblastic leukemia, revealing new mutations and drug targets. The study identified 106 driver genes associated with cancer, including previously unrecognized mutations.
Researchers at Australian National University (ANU) have designed a new nano material that can reflect or transmit light on demand with temperature control. This innovation offers potential protection for astronauts in space from harmful radiation, increasing resistance threshold against radiation compared to current technologies.
Researchers studied 2,000-year-old Roman concrete using X-rays and electron microscopy, discovering a natural chemistry that strengthens the material over time. The findings suggest a recipe for modern concrete with less environmental impact could be inspired by the ancient Romans' use of volcanic ash, lime, and seawater.
Researchers found a 25% increased risk of death from all causes among PPI users compared to H2 blocker users. The study also suggested that PPIs may boost oxidative stress and shorten telomeres, potentially leading to tissue damage.
Research reveals a link between Alzheimer's and lower lung cancer risk due to mitochondrial dysfunction and chronic inflammation. A study analyzing over 1000 patient samples identified altered genes and confirmed the protective effect of Alzheimer's against lung cancer.
Researchers have discovered that guanylate-binding proteins, such as human GBP1, play a crucial role in bringing together membrane blebs to trap pathogens. This process is a precursor to vesicle fusion, which is essential for the immune defense mechanism.
Mathematicians used complex modeling to study a specific pulsar exhibiting 'glitching' and 'wobbling' behaviors. They found accepted theories conflict with each other, suggesting errors in current explanations.
Astronomers have spotted a rare opportunity to study the demise of a dwarf galaxy called Little Cub, which is being consumed by a gigantic neighbouring galaxy. The process provides clues about how smaller galaxies lose their gas and eventually shut down star formation.
Researchers have developed two types of solar cells with different photosensitizers, achieving higher efficiency and stability. The study used novel instrumentation to investigate environmental effects on photocurrent generated by solar cells.
A new study has found that the mass extinction event that wiped out dinosaurs simultaneously led to the evolution of three major lineages of modern frogs, which make up about 88% of living species. This finding suggests that the survivors filled up new ecological niches after the extinction event, resulting in the rapid diversification...
Researchers found that three of the OTC devices offered improvements in speech understanding comparable to a conventional hearing aid. However, one device demonstrated little improvement and another had worse results. The study's findings support efforts to make hearing aids more accessible through over-the-counter sales.
Researchers found that the AEP enzyme trims alpha-synuclein into toxic pieces, similar to its effect on tau in Alzheimer's disease. This discovery offers a potential drug target for Parkinson's disease.
A new tilted microscopy technique reveals better protein structures, resolving missing information and improving disease research. This approach could lead to a deeper understanding of proteins' conformations and their role in various diseases.
Researchers found that seawater's interaction with Roman concrete leads to the growth of rare minerals, increasing its cohesion and strength. The unique pozzolanic reaction and interlocking mineral crystals provide a system contrary to modern cement-based concrete.
A study has shown that an inexpensive fertility drug can be just as effective as more recent reproductive hormones in treating unexplained infertility. The 50-year-old drug, taken orally, was found to have a comparable pregnancy rate to newer hormones used in intrauterine insemination (IUI) with ovarian stimulation.
A computerized decision-making model has been developed to promote shared decision-making with cystic fibrosis patients, taking into account their preferences for measures of lung function and health. The tool helps prioritize home treatments by integrating patients' personal goals, values, and treatment preferences.
A team of scientists discovered a microorganism in Yellowstone that thrives on low-energy sources despite having access to richer alternatives. The organism can obtain energy by combining hydrogen with sulfur or iron, but grows best on the lowest energy supply.
Researchers studied owls' wings to understand how their unique features can reduce noise in machines like wind turbines and aircraft. Leading-edge serrations can control airflow, improving aerodynamic force and sound production, but a trade-off exists between performance and noise suppression.
Scientists have identified two mutated genes associated with nitrogen utilization in tobacco, which could lead to the development of plants requiring less nitrogen and reduced levels of carcinogenic compounds in cigarette smoke. This discovery has significant implications for sustainable agriculture and reducing environmental pollution.