A new study models the impact of PCBs on killer whale populations, finding that high concentrations in key regions could lead to collapse within a century. The model simulates accumulation and transfer of the chemical to offspring, tying population size and sustainability to proximity to PCB production.
A UC political scientist surveyed 1,100 participants to understand whether conservatives support evangelicals' claims for religious exemptions. He found only 28% of Republicans supported the rights of Muslim truck drivers, while over a third of Democrats did.
A new white paper from the Pontifical Academy for Life recommends 43 strategies to improve global palliative care, aiming to alleviate the suffering of millions. The report was developed by an expert group representing different faiths and was published in Journal of Palliative Medicine.
Researchers at Purdue University have developed a revolutionary technology that uses solar cells as optical antennas to transmit and receive information wirelessly between devices. This innovation enables seamless integration of IoT devices into everyday objects and harnesses energy from the environment to avoid frequent recharging.
A team of researchers has identified the genetic basis for the production of domoic acid, a potent neurotoxin produced by harmful algal blooms. The study's findings suggest that changes in oceanic conditions, such as phosphate limitation and increased carbon dioxide levels, can trigger toxin production.
The DFG has approved a collaborative Cluster of Excellence ct.qmat at TU Dresden and JMU Würzburg, aiming to establish a globally leading centre for quantum materials research. The cluster will focus on understanding, controlling and applying topological states of quantum matter.
Loyola will produce a more purified CAR-T cell product potentially reducing toxicities and costs. The Leukemia Research Foundation is supporting the research with a $250,000 grant.
A pilot study found that hospital privacy curtains became increasingly contaminated with MRSA over time, especially when placed in patient rooms. The study recommends regular cleaning or replacing curtains to prevent healthcare-associated infections.
A Penn Nursing study found that parents with lower education levels were more likely to access a web-based health program, but still struggled with computer and internet access. The research highlights the need for culturally sensitive digital health resources to address health disparities among Puerto Rican adolescents.
Researchers have discovered that mutant skin cells in humans compete with each other for survival, leading to only the fittest mutants progressing to form cancer. This study reveals that normal human skin is more resilient to cancer than previously thought, and can function normally despite a battle between mutated cells.
Researchers studied thermodynamics of small nanomachines and found that synchronizing their movements triggers significant synergy effects, leading to greater overall energy output. The findings could potentially be used to improve efficiency of any machine.
Researchers describe new species Ledumahadi mafube, a giant relative of Brontosaurus that walked on all fours. The discovery sheds light on the evolution of sauropods and reveals that massive body sizes were possible in early four-legged dinosaurs.
Researchers at UNIGE have identified a protein called RUP2 that blocks the effect of UV-B radiation on plant flowering, allowing plants to regulate their growth in response to seasonal changes. This discovery has significant implications for agriculture and our understanding of plant development.
A UMD team has received a $1 million grant to develop methods for generating single photons at room temperature in semiconducting carbon nanotubes. This project aims to create high-quality single-photon sources that can be integrated into solid-state devices, enabling new quantum research and technology.
Japanese scientists have identified a titanium carbide-reinforced alloy that can withstand extreme temperatures and pressures, outperforming existing Nickel-based superalloys. The alloy's high-temperature strength was demonstrated under constant forces in the range of 1400°C-1600°C.
Researchers study microscopic behavior of thermally stable SAdS black holes using Ruppeiner's thermodynamic geometry method, revealing attractive interactions among black-hole molecules. A new molecular potential is proposed for thermal stable SAdS black holes, providing a new perspective for exploring microstructure.
Researchers argue that observed patterns in evolution arise from statistical fluctuations rather than underlying causes. This 'push of the past' bias affects many areas of life and can lead to misleading conclusions if not recognized.
Researchers found a relationship between high FGF23 levels and structural compromise in the brain, particularly in the frontal lobes, which control learning and complex cognitive functions. Elevated FGF23 levels were also associated with increased disconnection in the brain, indicating problems with brain health in those areas.
Ledumahadi mafube, a 12-tonne giant plant-eater, was the largest land animal alive when it lived nearly 200 million years ago. The new species' fossil reveals insights into its evolution and geographic history.
Researchers at WSU have developed an implantable, biofuel-powered sensor that runs on glucose from body fluids to monitor biological signals. The sensor has shown high sensitivity in processing physiological and biochemical signals, making it a promising tool for disease detection.
Researchers found that hospitalization, critical illness, and major infection are associated with reduced brain volume in regions vulnerable to Alzheimer's disease. Critical illness was also linked to inflammation in the brain and systemic inflammation.
A 4-year-old boy was infected with HIV-1 after accidental exposure to the virus through his father's skin blisters during seroconversion, a period of viral replication and immune response. The transmission highlights the importance of understanding HIV transmission in atypical ways.
Researchers found that installing small hexagonal structures called 'spiders' across 5 acres of reef increased live coral cover from less than 10% to over 60%. This cost-effective method has the potential to inform other large-scale coral reef restoration efforts.
The Endocrine Society's Clinical Practice Guideline provides recommendations for promptly diagnosing and treating CAH throughout a patient's life. It emphasizes shared decision-making among patients, families, and healthcare professionals for the management of the disorder.
Researchers at the University of Illinois have created a new method to predict US end-of-season corn yields, outperforming the USDA's current estimations. The new system uses a combination of seasonal climate prediction and satellite data for more accurate predictions.
A study suggests that a warmer tropical Atlantic and increased greenhouse gas concentrations may have driven the 2017 Atlantic hurricane season. The researchers predict higher numbers of major hurricanes in future seasons, with a continued risk over the Caribbean, US Coast, and northern North Atlantic.
A study of 232 obese children found that vitamin D supplementation led to significant reductions in body mass index and body fat. This suggests a potential role for vitamin D in reducing the risk of serious health problems, such as heart disease and diabetes, later in life.
A major study from University of Sussex confirms that acts of kindness activate the brain's reward network, regardless of personal benefit. The research found distinct neural responses to altruistic and strategic kindness, with some areas more active during pure altruism.
A long-term study published in Biology Letters reveals that Amazon mangrove forests store twice as much carbon per acre than the region's famous rainforest. The researchers found that mangroves sequester significant quantities of carbon, which is stored for centuries, and their conservation is crucial for climate change mitigation.
A lidar survey of over 2,000 square kilometers in northern Guatemala has revalued aspects of ancient Maya society, estimating that up to 11 million people lived in the region during the Late Classic Period. The study also found extensive agricultural modification and networks of roadways connecting distant cities.
Scientists have developed a solar flow battery that can store sunlight as chemical energy for later use. The device can be used to provide electricity in remote regions, making it an attractive solution for off-grid electrification.
A French scientist's discovery of ibis mummies in Egypt led to a pivotal debate on evolution, with naturalist Georges Cuvier opposing Lamarck's emerging ideas. The study highlights the significance of considering dominant personalities' biases in scientific research.
Researchers at University of Surrey develop innovative Triboelectric Nanogenerators (TENGs) that capture energy from human movements, wind, and machine vibration. The study provides a step-by-step guide on constructing efficient energy harvesters, paving the way for a future with free and renewable energy.
TU Dresden has secured funding for three new Clusters of Excellence, including PoL: Physics of Life, ct.qmat: Complexity and Topology in Quantum Materials, and CeTI: Center for Tactile Internet. This achievement confirms the university's continuous development and commitment to cutting-edge research.
The Centre for Tactile Internet with Human-in-the-Loop research focuses on developing intelligent and adaptive systems for real-time communication. The goal is to create a network that links people, learning from human insights to improve machines.
Researchers link declines in life expectancy to rising medical costs and structural issues like democratic institutions failure and economic stagnation, not just opioid epidemic
A study published in the Journal of Behavioral Medicine found that women with shorter days during late pregnancy may be at a higher risk of developing postpartum depression. Exposure to natural light and vitamin D can help alleviate symptoms.
A team of researchers found that land area in Hawai'i vulnerable to future sea level rise may be double previous estimates. The 'bathtub' model underestimates the full extent of potential damage due to sea level rise, particularly on Hawaii's high-energy coasts.
NASA's Aqua satellite detected Tropical Storm Liua in the southern Pacific Ocean with two strongest storm areas west and northeast of its center. The storms had cloud top temperatures as cold as minus 80 degrees Fahrenheit, capable of generating heavy rainfall.
A catastrophic fire at Brazil's National Museum destroyed biodiversity and cultural artifacts, highlighting the need for improved museum infrastructure. Scientists are now calling on governments to safeguard collections before suffering further losses.
A study by Massachusetts General Hospital researchers found elevated glial activation in the brains of fibromyalgia patients, correlating with fatigue levels. The results suggest that neuroinflammation may be a potential treatment target for the condition.
A new study reveals women are two and a half times less likely to ask a question in departmental seminars compared to men. Despite an equal gender ratio, women's self-reported feelings towards speaking up differ significantly from those of men.
A new study found that first-born children are more likely to report parental involvement in sex education than later-born children. The study also revealed significant gender disparities in parental involvement, with men consistently reporting lower levels of parental engagement.
Researchers found that ripple defects resembling hourglasses, zigzags, and tuning forks are associated with periods of environmental flux. These defects can serve as fingerprints to understand how dramatic the shifts in weather conditions were at the time.
Researchers monitored microchipped rats in the presence of feral cats, finding that rats avoided cats and spent more time in burrows, contradicting popular opinion about cat-rat interactions. The study adds to growing evidence that releasing cats to control city rats is outweighed by threats to urban wildlife.
Researchers create 3D models of breast cancer tumors using stromal cells, which play a major role in cancer growth and progression. The study aims to introduce stromal cells as new therapeutic targets, offering potential treatments for triple-negative breast cancer.
Researchers have discovered three genetic variants associated with chronic back pain, which may provide clues for understanding its occurrence. The study found that these variants are linked to genes controlling skeletal development and spinal cord function.
A simple measurement of abdominal obesity index (ABOI) has been developed to determine central obesity, focusing on abdominal fat content rather than total body weight or shape. ABOI can be calculated by measuring abdominal circumference and chest circumference, providing a more accurate assessment of abdominal obesity.
A new study reveals that Hox genes play a role in regulating the body plan of radially symmetrical animals like sea anemones. The research found that disrupting Hox gene function led to defects in segmentation and tentacle patterning, suggesting an ancestral role for these genes in controlling body development.
A new grant from the National Institute on Aging aims to boost Latino researchers studying Alzheimer's disease and related dementias. The San Diego Resource Center for Advancing Alzheimer's Research in Minority Seniors will provide mentorship, data, and intellectual resources to support emerging scholars.
A new study by Vanderbilt University researchers found that highly rated principals use 'strategic retention' to keep high-performing teachers and remove low-performing ones. Effective principals focus on teacher observation scores to identify underperformers, using informal methods such as counseling out.
A study found that 67% of vampire bats in Belize and Peru are infected with Bartonella bacteria, which can cause endocarditis. The research suggests transmission may occur through bites or environmental contamination, highlighting the risk of cross-species transmission.
Researchers synthesized PANI/Zn ferrite composites, showing excellent microwave absorption performance. The fluffy structure and dielectric loss capabilities contribute to the attenuation of microwave energy, making this composite a good microwave absorber.
Researchers describe five stages of give-up-itis, a condition characterized by progressive psychological decline and apathy, leading to potentially life-threatening consequences. The condition is triggered by severe trauma and affects the anterior cingulate circuit, governing motivation and goal-directed behavior.
A recent study has shown that adding genetic factors to existing risk assessments can help predict future major coronary events in people with type 2 diabetes. The genetic score provides a significant improvement in correctly predicting cardiovascular risk, particularly when used early in life.
A care package aimed at reducing the risk of stillbirth showed a marginal drop in rates, but effects were too small to prove its benefits. The study suggests other interventions will likely be needed to reduce stillbirth rates worldwide.
Researchers developed targeted plasticity therapy (TPT) to pair physical movements with vagus nerve stimulation, accelerating brain reorganization and recovery. The study found TPT to be twice as effective as traditional rehabilitation alone in doubling upper limb recovery rates.
A study of 2.5 million babies in 19 European countries found that around one-third of stillbirths occur before 28 weeks of pregnancy but are not officially recognized, with significant gaps in knowledge of the burden of stillbirth. Improvements in reporting and policy can help acknowledge the loss of these parents' children.
A new clinical trial has found that durvalumab improved progression-free survival by 17.2 months compared to placebo in patients with stage 3 non-small cell lung cancer. Overall survival rates also increased, with 66.3% of patients surviving at two years, compared to 55.6% on placebo.
A nationwide study in Taiwan found that stroke incidence is rising, contrary to declines in Western countries. The study examined hospital records of patients with a primary diagnosis of stroke between 2001 and 2013, and found that the incidence of ischemic stroke increased by 12% over 13 years.