Researchers have identified the geographical origins and global spread of HBV genotypes D and A, which originated in the Middle East and North Africa. The study reveals differences in their dissemination patterns, influenced by prehistoric and recent human migrations.
A Rutgers University-led study documents how baby sea snail larvae detect and respond to ocean turbulence and waves, improving their chances of survival. Climate change may impact the habitats of these larvae, potentially affecting their populations.
The USPSTF concludes that routine screening for atrial fibrillation with electrocardiography is not recommended due to the lack of evidence. Atrial fibrillation increases with age and is a major risk factor for ischemic stroke, but current screening methods have not been proven effective in preventing adverse outcomes.
Scientists at TUM have discovered a new class of designed macrocyclic peptides that are highly potent inhibitors of amyloid formation, which could be an alternative to current antibody-based approaches. The researchers are now planning further investigations to verify their effectiveness in in vivo models.
New research shows that families supporting a child through college are more likely to experience foreclosure during economic downturns. The study found a significant correlation between higher education costs and increased household financial risk during the Great Recession.
Researchers at a nuclear astrophysics lab achieved an order-of-magnitude increase in normalized brightness after upgrading their accelerator. The new system improved high-voltage source stability and signal-to-background ratio, enabling higher proton beam intensity without damaging targets.
A study by the University of Kent found that large riparian reserves tend to support more bird species than nearby forests. The researchers discovered that a single river site can host around a third of all bird species found in adjacent forests, with wider protected areas supporting even more species.
Researchers at Carnegie Mellon University and DeepMotion Inc. developed a physics-based method for controlling animated characters to learn dribbling skills from motion capture data. The system requires millions of trials but produces arm movements closely coordinated with physically plausible ball movement.
A single-celled protozoan achieves incredible acceleration by contracting its body and utilizing supramolecular springs. The creature can shorten its body by 60% in a few milliseconds, reaching speeds of up to 200 meters per second squared.
Researchers found that iron-silica particles in ancient seawater helped cyanobacteria survive and thrive, paving the way for oxygenation. However, UV stress still limited their growth, contributing to the slow accumulation of atmospheric oxygen.
A new study published in the Californian Journal of Health Promotion explores how heavy drinking impacts dietary choices. Researchers found that participants were more likely to opt for salty snack foods and pizza before bed, and less likely to eat healthy foods like dark green vegetables. The study suggests that promoting healthy eati...
Researchers emphasize the importance of seagrass conservation in securing a sustainable planet due to its role in biodiversity, fisheries, and carbon cycling. Seagrasses store significant amounts of carbon in their sediments, supporting local ecosystems and potentially mitigating climate change.
Researchers discovered that cholesterol disruption causes PAP, a condition where air sacs clog with surfactant. A clinical trial to test statin therapy is planned, showing improved respiratory function in patients and laboratory models.
Research reveals that hospitals struggle to collect forensic evidence from rape kits, with only a third of eligible patients completing the process and handing over evidence to police. Survivors face complex legal systems and potential trauma, emphasizing the need for proper support in emergency care departments.
Tropical Storm Ileana has weakened due to interaction with land and nearby Hurricane John, according to NASA's Aqua satellite data. The storm is moving toward the west-northwest at 23 mph, with maximum sustained winds near 50 mph.
Researchers discovered that soy protein can counter negative effects of menopause on bone and metabolic health in postmenopausal women. Soy-based diets were found to improve bone strength and metabolic function for both rats with and without ovaries.
Researchers discovered a massive increase in wave power near Jupiter's moons Ganymede and Europa, a million times more intense than average. This phenomenon is attributed to the strong magnetic fields of these moons, which amplify low-frequency radio waves.
Researchers found that injecting vasoactive intestinal peptide into the eye of mice significantly improved corneal graft survival. The treatment accelerated endothelial wound closure and protected corneal endothelial cells, leading to clearer grafts. This breakthrough could lead to better outcomes for patients with corneal disease.
Researchers investigate the role of dopamine neurons in assigning value to environmental cues, revealing parallel motivational roles for different types of neurons. This study contributes to understanding relapse in addiction by highlighting the importance of normal cue-triggered motivation.
A hydraulic jump occurs when water hits a sink, causing waves and turbulence. Researchers at Cambridge University have explained this phenomenon using surface tension, debunking a 200-year-old theory. The study's findings have wide-reaching implications for industries with high water consumption.
Researchers at the University of Basel have identified a factor that could support the early detection of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's or Parkinson's. FGF21 is induced by cellular stress reactions after disturbances in mitochondria and can be detected prior to neuronal cell death.
Extended-release naltrexone helps HIV-positive individuals reduce their number of heavy drinking days and improve antiretroviral therapy adherence. The study found significant decreases in heavy drinking days among participants receiving naltrexone, but no effect on antiretroviral adherence.
Researchers have identified a corn variety that obtains 29-82% of its nitrogen from beneficial bacteria, attracted by sugary secretions. This trait could reduce fertilizer use and increase production in poor soils.
A recent study published in Nature Communications reveals that capturing wild-caught elephants from the wild significantly reduces their lifespan compared to captive-born animals. The research analyzed data from timber camps in Myanmar and found that even years after capture, mortality rates remain increased.
Tropical Storm Kristy formed in the Eastern Pacific Ocean on August 7th. Infrared data from NASA's Aqua satellite revealed strong storms at the storm's center, indicating its potential intensity.
Experts believe extending the current 14-day limit would allow scientists to study embryonic development and improve IVF procedures. This could also enable research into 'organoids' - miniature human organs created in labs.
Jorge Henao-Mejia will receive $500,000 to study the role of gut microbiota in obesity and type 2 diabetes. His research could lead to new treatments for these serious medical conditions.
Researchers discovered a link between the protocadherin 17 gene and abnormal brain-eye muscle connections in zebrafish, which may contribute to strabismus. The study suggests that Pcdh17 protein plays a crucial role in positioning neurons correctly in the brain and extending axons to target muscles.
A team of astronomers has unveiled 44 extrasolar planets, dwarfing typical confirmation numbers. Novel techniques validated the find, enabling precise determination of planet sizes and temperatures.
Researchers found that people's perceptions of others' actions are based on what they expect the action to do to maximize efficiency, rather than its actual outcome. This distortion can lead to misinterpretation of ambiguous behavior and incorrect assumptions about others' intentions and emotions.
The Global Precipitation Measurement mission observed Tropical Storm John's strengthening on August 6, 2018, with intense rainfall in feeder bands. The satellite's radar data revealed storm tops reaching heights above 13.7 km, indicating the storm's potential for intensification into a hurricane.
Scientists replicate a landmark study to determine changes in coral sea temperature tolerance over time. The results show corals are becoming more tolerant of warmer temperatures, but the rate of adaptation is not keeping pace with rising ocean temperatures.
A responsive parenting intervention resulted in lower body mass indexes (BMIs) among toddlers when they were three years old. The program taught first-time moms how to respond appropriately to their babies' needs, leading to healthier weight development and reduced rates of overweight and obesity.
The study found that 30% of bird species in the Mojave Desert have become less common and widespread over the past century. Birds adapted to desert environments fared better than those adapted to grasslands or forests, highlighting the need for conservation efforts to protect these populations.
A new study from Lund University and Skåne University Hospital found that children with allergies have a lower risk of developing complicated appendicitis. The study compared outcomes for 605 children with and without IgE-mediated allergy, finding a significant association between the two.
Researchers have discovered that PLK1 acts as a tumor suppressor in some breast tumors, halting development and changing prognosis. This finding was made by researchers from CNIO and DKFZ.
The Ecological Society of America (ESA) donated $17,500 to the Coalition to Restore Coastal Louisiana to offset environmental costs from its 2018 Annual Meeting. The donation will help the organization further its commitment to coastal restoration and wetland preservation in the Gulf Coast region.
Researchers developed a new sensor that detects hydrogen peroxide levels in human cells to identify effective chemotherapy drugs. The sensor can be used to screen existing drugs and predict success in individual patients' tumors. This breakthrough could lead to more targeted and effective cancer treatments.
Researchers are using unique DNA-based tracers to characterize the recharge and flow patterns in the Edwards Aquifer, a vital source of drinking water for central and south Texas. The new method allows for rapid detection of contaminant sources and creation of a robust database to calibrate groundwater modeling.
Scientists at Huntsman Cancer Institute have generated a comprehensive molecular map of genes that control breast tissue formation, providing new insights into the development of breast cancer. The study identifies hundreds of potentially critical genes for further research as regulators of normal and cancerous development.
A human trial and laboratory study found that Montmorency tart cherries helped to positively impact the gut microbiome, primarily measured by an increase in good bacteria. The results suggest that individuals consuming a more plant-based diet may have a mix of gut bacteria that responds more positively to tart cherry consumption.
A network meta-analysis and systematic review found methylphenidate to be the most effective and safe ADHD drug for short-term treatment in children, with amphetamines being the preferred choice for adults. However, more research is needed to confirm long-term effects of ADHD medications.
Researchers develop a novel approach using the Lattice-Boltzmann method to accurately model atmospheric turbulence in complex environments, reducing computational load and improving prediction accuracy. This breakthrough has significant implications for military operations, civilian planning, and emergency response.
A new study found that rates of Acute Kidney Injury (AKI) among Irish patients have more than doubled in the past decade. The study highlights the importance of targeting 'minor' AKI events to prevent severe forms and reduce risk of kidney failure.
Researchers have discovered a nematode worm that develops similar nerve damage to humans when exposed to mutated TTR proteins. The C. elegans model allows scientists to study the molecular mechanisms of TTR-linked diseases and potentially develop new treatments.
Changes in heat flow from the Pacific Ocean may have a larger effect on Arctic climate than previously recognized. The study found that ocean-to-atmosphere heat flow scenarios in the North Pacific and North Atlantic resulted in greater global and Arctic surface air temperature anomalies.
A new study has identified specific genes, including BARD1, BRCA1, BRCA2, PALB2, and RAD51D, that are associated with an increased risk for triple-negative breast cancer. The study suggests potential revisions to guidelines for genetic testing and may lead to better prevention strategies.
Researchers at the University of Texas at Dallas have developed a statistical method to analyze millions of RNA structures, enabling them to predict functional interactions. This breakthrough aims to prevent toxic relationships between molecules that lead to disease, and potentially improve human health.
A new study from Michigan Medicine reveals that young people who receive opioid prescriptions immediately before or after wisdom teeth removal are nearly three times as likely to keep using opioids weeks or months later. Those in their late teens and twenties have the highest odds of persistent opioid use.
Researchers at NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center are investigating the use of gallium nitride crystals in various space applications, including radiation tolerance and neutron detection. The material's high efficiency and resistance to radiation make it an attractive option for reducing instrument size, weight, and power consumption.
Researchers created an MRI coil that produces images with three times higher resolution than standard coils, enabling easy whole-body imaging of mice. The new coil design uses inexpensive materials and manufacturing technology, reducing noise and improving image quality.
Researchers analyzed copper-based artifacts to understand provenance and production of Egyptian metal objects, finding signs of localized ore sources and diverse metal origins. The findings offer new insights into ancient Egyptian metallurgy and supply networks, highlighting the importance of ongoing research.
A new study by Indiana University researchers found that climate change impacts managed waterways in the US and Canada, similar to unmanaged streams and rivers. The analysis revealed diminishing flow in southern and western US regions, while northeastern US rivers showed increased flow.
The Mendocino Complex has become the largest fire in California history, burning over 290,000 acres and forcing nearly 4,000 firefighters to battle the inferno. The complex consists of two separate fires, River and Ranch Fires, which have destroyed 75 residences and 68 structures.
A copper band discovered in coastal Georgia indicates that ancient Native Americans had a more extensive trade network than previously thought. The band was manufactured in the Great Lakes region and shows that the practice of cremation was used across a wider area than previously known, suggesting shared cultural values.
A large study found that delaying hip fracture surgery beyond two days increases postoperative mortality. The researchers suggest adopting a 'don't let the sun set twice' policy for timely access to the operating room, which could avoid up to 16.5% of in-hospital deaths.
A recent study published in the European Journal of Preventive Cardiology found that physically active severely obese individuals had a significantly lower risk of developing atrial fibrillation. In contrast, those who were inactive or exercised little experienced a doubling of this risk. The study suggests that regular physical activi...
A recent study has discovered that fruit fly larvae possess novel taste receptors capable of detecting ribonucleosides, the building blocks of RNA. This ability significantly enhances their growth rate and survival, allowing them to increase their body weight by 200-fold in just a few days.
A study published in Frontiers in Public Health found that Grenadian female adolescents adhering to a traditional diet rich in healthy foods have lower rates of obesity than those consuming a more westernized diet. The researchers identified a generational effect, where the prevalence of obesity increases with future generations.
Researchers found genetic variation in pea plant variants to be crucial for developing beneficial microbial partnerships, leading to improved growth. This discovery holds promise for reducing reliance on chemical fertilizers and promoting sustainable agriculture.