A recent study published in Andrologia reveals that obesity is associated with lower semen volume, sperm count, and motility. The findings suggest that weight loss before conception may improve fertility outcomes for couples seeking infertility treatment.
A new study analyzes thousands of new measurements of microbial communities from various sites in the body, providing insights into how microbes work together to maintain human health. The research identifies differences unique to an individual's microbes and tracks them across the body over time.
A new study found that individuals with type 2 diabetes may experience modest deficits in cortical bone, which can increase the risk of fractures. The research highlights the importance of addressing skeletal deficits in individuals with diabetes to reduce fracture risk.
A new study published in the Journal of Bone and Mineral Research found that older adults with type 2 diabetes have deficits in cortical bone microarchitecture, increasing their risk of fractures. This is particularly concerning for hip fractures, which are a significant public health problem.
Researchers found that injecting interleukin-27 (IL-27) into mice after a hemorrhagic stroke helped them recover and had less brain damage. IL-27 may play a critical role in protecting the brain from stroke-induced damage, offering new avenues for stroke treatment strategies.
A 15-country study reveals that adolescent interventions should begin with preteens to avoid the health risks of 'gender straitjackets' that include abuse and suicide. Researchers found that rigidly enforced gender expectations are linked to increased lifelong risks, including HIV, depression, violence, and suicide.
Researchers found that drinking alcohol induces changes to a cholesterol-regulating gene, PCSK9, leading to differences in how cholesterol is processed. Higher methylation and gene expression of PCSK9 were associated with chronic heavy alcohol use, which can lead to lower PCSK9 protein levels due to liver damage.
Researchers at the University of Chicago have developed a method to make stacks of semiconductors just a few atoms thick, offering a simple and cost-effective way to produce thin, uniform layers. This breakthrough could enable the creation of smaller, faster electronics with unique properties.
Researchers at Wayne State University aim to develop an Autonomous Battery Operating System (ABOS) to enhance energy efficiency, lifespan and security of battery systems. The project will investigate the effectiveness of ABOS in a realistic environment, testing its ability to control physical battery systems and predict battery state.
A new study from Ohio State University found that community forest concessions in Guatemala's Maya Biosphere Reserve slowed deforestation by almost 8%, compared to areas without management and ownership. The programs also preserved biodiversity, history, and culture, while reducing carbon levels.
Researchers at IBS Institute for Basic Science observed polymers in liquid inside graphene pockets without staining, revealing their dynamic movement. The study paves the way for observing life's building blocks and self-assembly of materials.
A new study from the University of California, Davis, suggests that blocking oxytocin in the brain may be a better option for relieving stress and enhancing social life. Researchers found that oxytocin amplifies both positive and negative social interactions, but its effects vary depending on the brain region it acts upon.
Researchers found that 2/3 of heat wave variability in the Yangtze River valley can be explained by sea surface temperature forcing, while 1/3 is attributed to atmospheric internal variability. Non-ENSO SST anomalies also contribute to heat waves.
Researchers used genome editing to stop a key gene from producing a protein in human embryos, revealing its crucial role in correct blastocyst formation. The study could help improve IVF treatments and understand causes of pregnancy failure.
Scientists have developed a new treatment option using nanogels to encapsulate stem cells, which can repair damaged heart tissue and trigger an immune response. This method has shown increased cell retention and regeneration compared to traditional treatments.
Researchers are struggling to develop better varieties of crops like coffee and bananas due to the complexity of their multiple chromosomes. A $47,000 grant is funding an international meeting to collaborate and compare findings on polyploid crops.
A study by Oregon State University and the Oregon Health Authority identified 21 cases of extensively drug-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii, a rare gene responsible for antibiotic resistance. Effective communication between facilities can prevent transmission and ensure appropriate contact precautions are taken.
Researchers discovered that early sauropod dinosaurs like Saturnalia tupiniquim were capable of a bipedal gait and had agile ancestors. The brain structure of S. tupiniquim revealed specific features enabling it to track moving objects with its eyes, execute rapid movements of its head and neck in a coordinated fashion.
UNC School of Medicine researchers found that faulty cell signaling in progenitor cells can derail cerebral cortex development, potentially leading to autism. The study suggests that disruptions in the Wnt protein pathway may play a crucial role in brain development and autism symptoms.
A 52-gene risk profile predicts individual patient survival for idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) patients, improving the accuracy of current clinical tools. The study's findings have important implications for disease management and treatment decisions.
Engineers aligned NASA's James Webb Space Telescope's 18 hexagonally shaped primary mirror segments using a multi-wavelength interferometer and seven actuators to achieve precise alignment. The ability to adjust the mirror segments' positions and shapes is critical for accurate focus on celestial targets.
A new study finds that protected waters have fostered a resurgence of West Coast rockfish, with larvae increasing in number within conservation areas. The research suggests that these areas can seed surrounding waters with offspring, supporting the long-term recovery of the species.
A theoretical physicist proposes an alternative approach to species classification by considering the dynamics of microbial communities as a whole. This framework may help researchers better understand complex biological systems and their role in human diseases.
A study found that macrophages can produce Interleukin-10 (IL-10), a healing factor, which promotes wound repair in the intestine. This discovery could lead to new treatments for inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). The researchers used a colonoscope with biopsy forceps to create a wound in mice and observed its healing process.
Astronomers have observed a unique type of object in the asteroid belt between Mars and Jupiter, revealing two asteroids orbiting each other and exhibiting comet-like features. The research provides crucial information about the origin and evolution of main-belt comets, which can help answer questions about how water came to Earth.
Recently developed nanosized and hierarchical SAPO-34 catalysts show significant advantages in the MTO process, enhancing mass transfer and decreasing coke formation. The review summarizes state-of-the-art synthesis strategies for these catalysts.
A new study published in Marine Policy highlights the critical role of reducing tourist consumption of reef fish in maintaining Palau's ocean sustainability. The researchers recommend shifting seafood consumption to open water fish, such as sustainably-harvested tuna.
A study by MIT professor Daniel Rothman suggests that a sixth mass extinction may occur if the world's oceans hold enough carbon to destabilize the system. By 2100, human activities are estimated to add about 310 gigatons of carbon to the oceans, potentially tipping the planet into unknown territory.
Tufts University will establish the Institute for Research on Learning and Instruction (IRLI) with a focus on understanding how students learn at the collegiate level. The institute aims to develop evidence-based educational methods to give students the skills and knowledge they need for the future.
A study by Indiana University researchers found that US women have diverse preferences for genital touch, location, pressure, shape, and pattern, with 41% preferring a single style of touch. The study also revealed that nearly 75% of women require clitoral stimulation to achieve orgasm during intercourse.
Scientists found that mid-latitude circulation anomalies led to a negative YRV rainfall anomaly in August 2016, opposite to the strong positive anomaly in 1998. These anomalies resulted from the 'Silk Road Pattern' and increased anticyclonic circulation over East Asia.
A recent study has uncovered millions of previously unknown genes from microbial communities in the human gut, skin, mouth, and vaginal microbiome. The research triples the amount of data previously analyzed and provides new insights into the role these microbes play in human health and disease.
A study found that living South American horned frogs have similar bite forces to mammalian predators, capable of subduing prey much larger than themselves. The research estimated the bite force of the giant extinct frog Beelzebufo may have had a bite up to 2200 N.
A study by Baylor University scholars finds that school board members' reelection is tied to white student achievement, but not to African-American or Hispanic students. The research also reveals that voters prioritize factors outside of schools' control when evaluating their candidates.
Researchers gathered data from over 16,000 students and found no evidence that motivation decreased despite prolonged effort on a single task. Instead, motivation increased as new tasks were completed, suggesting that self-control may be stable throughout the day.
Researchers at the University of Houston are developing next-generation catalytic converters to reduce harmful emissions and improve fuel efficiency. The project aims to find new materials that can operate effectively at low exhaust temperatures.
Participating in twice-weekly Tibetan yoga reduced sleep disturbances and improved sleep quality in breast cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy. Women who practiced at least two times a week reported better sleep quality and efficiency over time compared to those practicing less often.
A Boston hospital is conducting a study on the use of lorcaserin to treat cocaine addiction, targeting serotonin receptors in the brain. The goal is to reduce cravings and rewards associated with cocaine use, with the potential to provide a real game-changer for treatment options.
A new study found that nearly half of women requesting early medication abortion cited access barriers due to long waiting times, distance, or work commitments. Thirty percent related to privacy concerns, including lack of confidentiality and stigma, with eighteen percent involving controlling circumstances like partner violence.
Researchers from Kumamoto University have identified a new cyclic peptide that facilitates the absorption of biopharmaceutical products in the small intestine. The discovery has significant implications for the development of orally administered drugs, including insulin and other life-saving medications.
Researchers have used a new mathematical model to study why computer networks and electronic equipment fail when handling multiple requests. The model takes into account the unreliability of servers and predicts system performance, providing insights for optimizing real-world systems.
The Northwestern University Materials Research Science and Engineering Center has received a six-year, $15.6 million grant from the National Science Foundation to advance world-class materials research, education, and outreach. The center will support interdisciplinary research groups focusing on reconfigurable nanoelectronic materials...
The Global Precipitation Measurement mission found extreme storms within Hurricane Maria's feeder bands were dropping rain at an hourly rate of greater than 5.4 inches. The hurricane made landfall on Sept. 20 near Yabucoa, Puerto Rico, with maximum sustained winds reported to be 149.5 mph.
Penn State researchers create a low-cost delivery system for probes to collect thermodynamic data in storms, with successful launches into supercell storms. The new system aims to link temperature data with radar wind data to predict tornado formation and improve forecasts.
A study published in the Annals of Neurology found a link between adolescent concussions and an increased risk of multiple sclerosis. The study, which analyzed over 7,000 patients, found that repeated head trauma was associated with a significantly higher likelihood of developing the condition.
A new model for tropical plant biodiversity suggests that the storage effect enables tree species to coexist and is stronger in the tropics. Long-term forest monitoring data from 10 plots across 64 degrees of latitude reveal that successful reproductive events become more synchronized as latitude increases.
Research shows fish modify behaviors to avoid parasites, with behaviorally-modified individuals displaying increased surface activities and reduced swimming. This discovery could lead to new strategies for preventing parasite infections in aquaculture.
Researchers found that children can learn how to solve a puzzle on a tablet computer and transfer this learning to the same problem in the physical world. The study contradicts most previous research and suggests different screen learning media have varying effects on skill transfer.
Researchers developed a quality control method to evaluate pharmacological activity and effectiveness of different MβCD preparations. The new method identified differences in average molecular weight and side chain methylation among MβCD samples from different vendors and batches.
A new article investigates how Brexit may give rise to distinct Euro-English varieties tailored to continental European cultures and needs. Dr. Marko Mondiano suggests the UK's exit could mark a new era for the English language.
Researchers have developed bifunctional molecules that bind both chitin in fungal cell walls and human antibodies, redirecting the immune system to eliminate fungal pathogens. The new approach has shown synergistic effects with antifungal agents, holding promise for fighting echinocandin-resistant fungi.
Researchers found that a combination of two broadly-neutralizing HIV-1 antibodies protected primates against infection with a mixed population of HIV viruses. The findings suggest that combination therapies might be essential to prevent HIV in people, highlighting the need for regimens that protect against several targets.
Researchers found that oxidative stress produces microfractures in amniotic membranes, increasing the risk of early water breakage and preterm birth. The study used specialized microscopic techniques to detect these fractures in donated amniotic membranes.
Changes to wetlands alter animal populations, with reduced survival and reproduction in human-altered habitats. The study highlights the complex role of wetlands in human-altered ecosystems, which can provide important habitat but also pose risks to animals.
Researchers developed a device to assess mitochondrial oxygenation, predicting cardiac arrest in critically ill heart patients. The device uses resonance Raman spectroscopy to quantify oxygen levels and has been shown to accurately predict cardiac arrest with 97% specificity.
The National Science Foundation's EPSCoR program awards $5.6 million to 30 non-tenured researchers across 20 states. The fellowships provide opportunities for extended collaborative visits, partnerships with complementary expertise, and access to sophisticated equipment.
A study published in the Journal of Evolutionary Biology reveals that hundreds of male frog species undergo temporary color changes during their breeding season. These color changes serve as a signal to other males, indicating which frogs are suitable partners and improving chances of successful pairings.
The National Institute of General Medical Sciences has awarded a $2.375 million grant to Van Andel Research Institute to study epigenetic control mechanisms that regulate the genetic code. The researchers aim to understand how these complex controls are orchestrated and leverage this knowledge to design more effective medications.
A new study found that exposure to e-cigarettes with nicotine increases cardiac adrenaline levels, as indicated by abnormal heart rate variability. This increase is associated with a higher risk of death in people with known cardiac disease and those without, suggesting that e-cigarettes may not be safe for nonsmokers.
The NEMONIC project aims to develop and widely share new optical brain-imaging techniques, enabling the recording of brain cells in action. The team, led by UCSB scientists, uses light to measure brain activity, overcoming technological bottlenecks to understanding the mind and brain.