Researchers have provided a timeline for fossils from the Cradle of Humankind, revealing that early hominins experienced big changes in local climate, from wetter to drier conditions, at least six times between 3 and 1 million years ago. The study corrects assumptions about the relationship between East and South Africa hominin species.
The new modulator enables efficient and low-cost high-frequency microwaves transmission, covering the last mile with high data rates, and is compatible with 5G technology and future industry standards.
Researchers with NASA and UChicago institutions developed a new approach to improve crop yield predictions by incorporating planting and harvesting data into models. This method shows improved accuracy in matching observed yields, enabling more robust simulations of droughts and heat waves' impacts on food supplies and prices.
Scientists have discovered that semiconducting radicals can fabricate highly efficient OLEDs by exploiting their quantum mechanical 'spin' property, overcoming limitations of traditional materials. The new technology could lead to brighter displays and lighting technologies, including blue- and green-light radical-based diodes.
The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston and the Children's Museum of Houston are exploring ways to create popular programs that engage children and parents in STEM fields. The program, called Teaching Together-STEM, aims to motivate parents to help their children become interested in science and math. The study will in...
Researchers isolated antibodies from human survivors of Andes hantavirus infection that protected hamsters against the deadly disease. The antibodies shielded animals even after administration, suggesting they could be used as a preventative treatment for hantavirus cardiopulmonary syndrome.
A review from the Center for the Study of Itch identifies key factors contributing to the itch-scratch cycle, including immune responses and behavior. The study suggests that targeting specific molecules, such as cytokines, may be effective in treating chronic itching conditions.
Research from the University of Pittsburgh suggests that Klotho protein can rejuvenate muscle healing in old mice. By raising Klotho levels or mitigating its deficiency, researchers were able to restore functional levels of muscle regeneration in aged skeletal muscle.
A major US study has found that probiotics have no effect on symptoms in young children with gastroenteritis. The study, involving nearly 1,000 children ages 3 months to 4 years, provides evidence against the popular use of probiotics as a treatment for acute gastroenteritis.
A lab study funded by Cancer Research UK and Worldwide Cancer Research found that mannose can slow tumour growth and enhance the effects of chemotherapy in mice with multiple types of cancer. The researchers discovered a dosage of mannose that could block enough glucose to slow tumour growth in mice without affecting normal tissues.
Researchers have found that pulse oximeters can detect normal, elevated, and high blood pressure with high accuracy. The studies, conducted in the US and China, used large sample sizes and a unique mathematical program to identify electrical signatures that correlated with hypertension.
A Chinese scientist designed a DNA origami nanoplatform that carries chemotherapeutic drugs and RNA interference to target and kill multidrug-resistant cancer cells. The platform demonstrates the effectiveness of RNA interference in reducing drug resistance in cancer treatment.
A recent study found that higher unemployment rates are associated with a lower likelihood of unintended pregnancies among US women. Women with both high and low education experienced declines in unintended pregnancies as unemployment rates rose, particularly those with less than a high school degree.
A new PhD thesis from the University of Eastern Finland reveals a link between early life environmental exposures, such as farming and air pollution, and altered immune responses. The study found that farming exposure decreases the risk of allergic diseases, while air pollution increases asthma prevalence in children.
A team at Kyoto University has discovered that individual cells sense and modulate themselves to form the spherical shape of the eye through a process called self-bending. This phenomenon generates a hinge that pushes cells into the cup-like structure, resulting in the formation of an optic cup.
A new study found that anabolic steroid use is associated with a three-times higher risk of death and more hospital contacts among men. The study also revealed significant side effects such as acne, gynaecomastia, and erectile dysfunction among users.
Fruit and naturally occurring fructose have no negative impact on blood glucose levels, while sweetened drinks may pose a greater risk. Researchers analyzed 155 studies to assess the effect of different food sources of fructose sugars on blood glucose levels.
A study of European shag diet composition found a dramatic shift from sandeel to other fish species, with potential implications for survival and population trends. Climate change may be driving this shift, highlighting the need for conservation efforts to mitigate its effects.
Researchers found that antibiotic prophylaxis regimens are less effective at preventing surgical site infections following colorectal surgery. The efficacy of antibiotic prophylaxis has remained unchanged for other procedures like appendectomy and cesarean section.
Brown University researchers have developed a new smart material made from alginate and graphene oxide that is stiffer and more fracture-resistant than alginate alone. The material can also become softer or stiffer in response to different chemical treatments, making it useful for dynamic cell cultures and coatings.
A study of over 143,000 female nurses found that rotating night shift work and an unhealthy lifestyle significantly increase the risk of type 2 diabetes. The risk is higher than the sum of individual factors, suggesting an interaction between the two.
A new brain-computer interface (BCI) enables people with paralysis to directly operate an off-the-shelf tablet device by thinking about making cursor movements and clicks. The participants were able to navigate through various apps, browse music selections, search for videos on YouTube, and compose emails and chats with high accuracy.
Researchers found that imagining a sound can effectively remove negative associations, with brain activity parallels seen in both real and imagined extinction conditions. This study sheds light on the power of imagination as a therapy tool for anxiety disorders.
A new study found that US tap water contains a mixture of contaminants, including pesticides, pharmaceuticals, and lead, which can harm public health. The researchers detected high levels of lead in 23 samples, exceeding the EPA's zero-lead goal.
Hunger increases risk-taking behavior in snails by altering brain control mechanisms, allowing them to ingest potentially harmful substances. The study's findings have major societal relevance, highlighting the importance of motivation in controlling feeding behavior.
The study challenges traditional understanding of brain circuits, finding that neurons in thicker areas have longer, more complex structures. This affects how individual neurons process sensory input and compare it to internal models.
A new indicator reveals that less than 3% of evaluated species are classified as 'low priority' or 'sufficiently conserved.' Wild coffee plants, Christmas trees, and chocolate's tree are among those in need of protection. The study highlights the urgent need for international conservation targets to meet ambitious goals.
A study found that individuals with cardiovascular disease experience faster functional decline than those without, especially women and those with less education. The risk factors for rapid functional decline can be used by clinicians to identify high-risk patients.
A 20-year study found that men who consumed more fruits and vegetables had better thinking and memory skills. Those who drank daily orange juice were also less likely to develop poor cognitive function, with a 47% lower risk compared to those who drank less than once a month.
This study of 2,728 teenagers found that frequent family meals were associated with eating more fruits and vegetables, and less fast food. Regular family dinners may encourage healthful eating habits in adolescents and young adults regardless of family dynamics.
Researchers found that vertebrate genomes underwent two whole genome duplications, driving the evolution of genetic characteristics. The study, published in Nature, also revealed regulatory mechanisms shared between lancelets and vertebrates, shifting our understanding of gene control along the evolutionary timeline.
Researchers at Osaka University developed a projection mapping system that virtually eliminates shadows on a projection surface even if light is blocked by an object. The technology uses a special optical system to shed light from various directions, allowing for human interaction and effective projections.
Baleen whales experienced chronic stress from whaling, ship noise, and sea-surface temperature changes over nearly 150 years. Cortisol levels peaked in the 1960s during whaling's peak and remained high after WWII, indicating a persistent impact of human activities.
Drug development stakeholders advocate for predictive, human-based nonclinical tests to prioritize safety and effectiveness. They propose increased funding, improved guidelines, and regulation to reduce waste, cost, and animal use.
A recent analysis estimates that suitable habitat for brown bears will decrease by 11 percent in Central Asia and the Asian Highlands due to climate change. This may force bears to move outside protected areas, highlighting the need for expanded protected areas and corridors.
Researchers found that overwintering Microcystis cells in sediments can seed the next year's bloom, explaining the rapid increase in Lake Erie bloom size and spatial extent. The study advances scientists' understanding of the basic biology driving the annual summer blooms.
A new study highlights the need for a shift in mental health provision based on public views and individual perspectives. Mental health professionals should adapt their practice to acknowledge patients' beliefs and preferences, rather than relying on assumed assumptions.
Bruno Jedynak, a PSU math and statistics professor, has been awarded nearly $500K to continue his research on the largest family history study of Alzheimer's disease. The study involves over 1,580 middle-aged participants and aims to understand the disease's progression by identifying biomarkers.
Women who slept less than 7-8 hours per night had a 25% increased odds of experiencing recurrent falls. Poor sleep quality, insomnia, and more sleep disturbances also associated with an increased risk.
A study examining Twitter language reveals Canadians tend to be polite, using positive words like 'great' and emoticons, while Americans are negative with words like 'hate' and emojis. The findings suggest that national stereotypes are reflected on Twitter despite the lack of accuracy in real-life personality traits.
Physicians Amir Mohareb and Louise Ivers condemn the Saudi-led coalition's attacks on healthcare facilities and services in Yemen, exacerbating outbreaks of infectious diseases and starvation. The authors stress the need for international humanitarian agencies to investigate attacks on medical personnel and facilities.
A new study by NYU neuroscientists found that humans can accurately integrate information over extended periods, contradicting predictions of existing models. The results suggest that the passage of time does not significantly impact decision-making accuracy.
Researchers discovered that Clostridium difficile toxins induce apoptosis in intestinal epithelial cells, providing a defense mechanism against the pathogen. The findings suggest that this cell death response protects the host from C. difficile infection, raising potential for therapeutic strategies to target gastrointestinal pathogens.
A Finnish study found that men who participated in the national colorectal cancer screening programme were less likely to require emergency surgery, chemotherapy, and incomplete tumour removals. The benefits of screening were particularly pronounced among male patients with left-sided colorectal cancer.
A multidisciplinary team at Penn successfully demonstrated the feasibility of 'engineered living tissue' disc replacement in a large animal model. The study showed that bioengineered spinal discs can restore native disc structure, biology, and mechanical function, offering new hope for treating spinal pain.
A University of Guelph study found that teenagers and young adults who participate in family dinners have healthier eating habits, consuming more fruits and veggies and fewer fast-food items. Family dinners also model healthful eating behaviors for parents and adolescents alike.
A new gene, slincR, discovered in zebrafish could help explain human susceptibility to chemicals. The study found that the gene regulates sox9b, a crucial gene in human development.
The study analyzes genome data from multiple species, including humans, mice, and zebrafish, to understand the evolutionary transition from invertebrates to vertebrates. The research identifies key differences in gene regulation between vertebrates and invertebrates, highlighting complex gene regulation and specialization.
A new series of studies assesses death and disability from neurological disorders between 1990 and 2016, finding one in four people worldwide suffered from headaches in 2016. Parkinson's disease has more than doubled since 1990, with motor neuron diseases causing severe disability and high fatality rates.
Researchers identified the Ikzf2 gene as a key regulator of special cells needed for hearing. Introducing a virus engineered to overexpress helios into inner ear hair cells transformed some mature inner hair cells into outer hair cells, exhibiting critical characteristics. This discovery may lead to therapies for age-related hearing loss.
A recent editorial suggests that home blood pressure monitoring is more accurate than traditional office assessments, due to the phenomenon of white coat syndrome. This can lead to misdiagnosis and inadequate treatment for patients with high blood pressure.
At 5 months, babies demonstrated the ability to recognize nested structures similar to human grammar. This basic understanding is thought to be part of what makes humans uniquely capable. The study used tone sequences and EEG measures to test infants' perception of embedded structures.
A team of McGill researchers has created a phosphorus-free anti-scaling solution based on hairy nanocellulose, providing an effective and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional methods. The breakthrough uses negatively charged carboxyl groups on cellulose nanoparticles to control scale formation.
A survey study of 1,000 US adults found that exposure to police violence was common, particularly among racial/ethnic and sexual minorities. The frequency of exposure was associated with increased likelihood of mental health issues, including psychological distress, suicidal thoughts, and psychotic experiences.
Researchers have created an in silico inventory of proteins on cell surfaces using machine learning, predicting the presence of over 2,900 proteins on human cell surfaces. The study reveals a wide variety of surface proteins across different cell types, with primary stem cells showing the greatest diversity.
Researchers identified protocadherin-1 as a key receptor facilitating hantavirus lung cell entry. Deleting this receptor made lab animals resistant to infection, offering potential therapeutic strategy against hantavirus pulmonary syndrome.
A large randomized controlled trial found that probiotics do not improve outcomes for children with acute gastroenteritis. The study, published in the New England Journal of Medicine, suggests that current recommendations to use probiotics for these patients may be outdated.
A new stamp-sized sensor can detect trace amounts of sarin within minutes, allowing for early treatment and preventing permanent damage. The technology uses a 'chemical black hole' to attract negatively charged fluoride ions, which are easy to detect electrochemically.
Researchers at Stanford University have developed an electronic glove with sensors that can detect pressure intensity and direction, allowing a robotic hand to perform tasks like lifting eggs and handling delicate objects without crushing them. The technology has potential applications in robot-assisted surgery and other fields where p...
Researchers have developed a new method to identify differences between single cells using single nucleotide variants, which can eliminate biases in traditional sequencing methods. This technique uses variant information to retrieve gene expression data, enabling better identification of tumor subpopulations.
A team of researchers has uncovered a critical mechanism for transporting proteins into the mitochondria, which are responsible for producing energy in cells. The discovery reveals that two J-proteins play a key role in targeting precursor proteins to specific receptors on the outer mitochondrial membrane.
A team of biologists found that rodent mothers produce litters with about fifty percent more pups when exposed to chemicals from frightened males. This study bridges the proximate and ultimate explanations of small mammal behavioral responses, showing how fear drives reproductive compensation in response to predation.
A recent Canadian study found that probiotics do not help reduce symptoms of gastroenteritis in children, contradicting previous smaller trials. The research recruited almost 900 children and tested two commercially available brands of probiotics.
A team at the University of Freiburg has successfully applied 2D-spectroscopy to isolated molecular systems, allowing for more precise study of atomic interactions. This breakthrough enables a better understanding of processes in photovoltaics and optoelectronics.
Imagination has been shown to be an effective tool in treating anxiety and fear-related disorders. A recent study found that imagining a threat can help reduce neural and physiological responses associated with fear, making it a promising treatment option for conditions like post-traumatic stress disorder and phobias.
Researchers at Osaka University have developed a novel nanopore-based sensor that can detect individual influenza virions with high accuracy. The sensor uses artificial intelligence to identify distinct physical features of the virus, making it suitable for point-of-care screening without specialized expertise.
NASA's Suomi NPP satellite captured Tropical Depression 33W moving through central Philippines and entering the Sulu Sea. The storm is expected to strengthen as it crosses the South China Sea and heads toward Vietnam.
Tropical Storm Man-Yi is strengthening in the Northwestern Pacific, with warnings in effect for the Federated States of Micronesia and the Mariana Islands. The storm is expected to intensify into a typhoon by Thursday, potentially reaching winds of up to 110 mph.
Researchers at Chalmers University of Technology have developed a new electrochemical process to clean mercury from water, reducing its content by over 99%. The technique uses a platinum electrode to form an alloy with mercury, creating a stable and recyclable material.
Researchers have created updated climate models for the seven planets around TRAPPIST-1, revealing unexpected similarities and differences with our solar system. The study suggests that some planets may have evolved like Venus due to an extremely hot early stellar phase, while others could be habitable ocean worlds.
A new study predicts that climate change will lead to a decline of 78-100% in European truffle production between 2071 and 2100, with significant economic and social impacts. The study highlights the need for conservational initiatives and management strategies to mitigate soil temperature fluctuations and conserve soil moisture.
A study reveals that current screening tools can miss severe infections in pregnant women, highlighting the need for better identification and timely interventions. Simple measures such as frequent vital sign reassessment and prompt antibiotic administration within an hour of diagnosis can significantly reduce maternal deaths.
Scientists have identified a new DNA recombination process in Alzheimer's disease brains, producing thousands of previously unknown gene variations. The process, requiring an enzyme found in HIV, may hold a key to developing new treatments for the disease.
Researchers from the BrainGate consortium demonstrate a brain-computer interface that allows people with paralysis to navigate and interact with off-the-shelf tablet devices. Participants were able to perform various tasks, including messaging, browsing, and music playback, with accuracy and speed.
Cornell University and Uber researchers developed a system to optimize bike docking stations and create an incentive scheme to crowdsource rebalancing. The approach improved performance in New York City and San Francisco, reducing costs and environmental impact.
A new animal model of age-related macular degeneration has been developed, allowing researchers to study the environmental risk factors that promote the condition. The model replicates aspects of human AMD, including lipid accumulation and inflammation, which can lead to vision loss.
MIT engineers have built and flown the first-ever plane with no moving parts, powered by an 'ionic wind' that generates enough thrust to propel the aircraft over a sustained flight. The lightweight aircraft is silent, doesn't depend on fossil fuels, and produces zero combustion emissions.
A global team of investigators has identified protocadherin-1 (PCDH1) as a crucial protein involved in Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS), a serious respiratory disease. The study, published in Nature, reveals that PCDH1 facilitates lung cell infection and triggers HPS, providing a viable target for blocking the disease.
Researchers found that protocadherin-1 (PCDH1) is essential for hantavirus infection of lung cells. Disrupting this recognition event could lead to a therapeutic against hantavirus pulmonary syndrome (HPS). The study, supported by NIH funding, used monoclonal antibodies to block virus entry and showed promising results in hamster models.
Research published in Experimental Physiology reveals smoking during pregnancy increases the likelihood of a baby becoming obese. Higher levels of chemerin, a protein associated with obesity, were found in infants whose mothers smoked during pregnancy. Reduced DNA methylation was also linked to increased expression of this protein.
Researchers discovered the hierarchical structure of whale baleen contributes to its unique fracture behavior. The nanoscale structure increases stiffness and strength, while microscale tubular lamellae control crack propagation, making it an ideal material for marine applications.
A study published in eNeuro found that percussionists outperformed brass players and color guards in detecting the order of moving stimuli. Musical training was shown to shape cortical areas responsible for synchronizing rhythm and behavior.
Researchers found that bees' speed decreases when entering a turn and increases when exiting, allowing them to maintain constant centripetal acceleration. Bees manage their speed to reduce 'sideslips' caused by excess centrifugal force, making turns with sharp forces more manageable.
Environmental organizations and social movements in Chile played a crucial role in fostering renewable energy policy, according to a new study. The authors argue that 'contingent coalitions' - collective actors with shared interests - were instrumental in promoting innovative policies and increasing the political clout of these groups.
University of Michigan researchers have developed a new building block that can serve as a safer alternative for the development of new medicines. The novel compound is produced using visible light and does not produce harmful metabolites like traditional anilines.
A new study finds that British children with intellectual disabilities are more likely to live in areas with high outdoor air pollution, such as diesel particulate matter and nitrogen dioxide. This increased exposure may impede cognitive development and contribute to the higher risk of intellectual disability.
Researchers from ITMO University developed a method to enhance enzyme activity using radio frequency radiation, resulting in acceleration of enzymatic processes. The technique uses magnetic nanoparticles to adsorb radio emission and convert it to heat, stabilizing the enzyme and allowing for remote control of biochemical systems.
A six-week mindfulness-meditation training program significantly reduced subjective distress and life dissatisfaction in mildly stressed adults. The effects were mediated by a reduction in perceived stress, supporting the theory that mindfulness facilitates acceptance of internal reactions to stressors.
A study of over 110,000 respondents found that morbid obesity was strongly associated with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) in never-smokers. In particular, among older women, those with morbid obesity had a higher prevalence of COPD compared to their normal-weight peers.
A 15-year study of thousands of children reveals that core language skills are stable from infancy to adolescence, with early intervention recommended for lagging development. Individual differences in language competency persist over time, emphasizing the importance of timely interventions.
Scientists have defied the long-held principle of magnetic coupling by creating a device that behaves like an electric diode, potentially leading to improved wireless power transfer technologies. This breakthrough could enhance the efficiency of recharging phones, laptops, and cars.
Researchers emphasize the importance of collecting SOGI data to provide culturally sensitive care for LGBTQ+ patients, who face unique health disparities. Standardized data collection can impact nearly every aspect of clinical reasoning and management decisions.
Researchers found that between 25-60% of young people with psychotic experiences would not have developed them without childhood trauma. The study used the Bristol Children of the 90s longitudinal data, examining 4,433 participants at age 18.
A new study found that cardiac surgery was associated with a 56% reduction in mortality, while in-hospital addictions counselling resulted in a 72% reduction. Both interventions showed significant benefits for patients who inject drugs with first-episode endocarditis.
Researchers have developed a new method to replicate complex natural tessellations on surface meshes using layered fields and sparse linear algebra kernels. The algorithm is platform-independent, concise, and achieves considerable performance gains over existing serial Voronoi diagram codes.
A new advance in battery design has been made by Osaka University researchers who developed a material with highly mobile potassium ions that can easily migrate in response to electric fields. This work may lead to cheaper and safer replacements for lithium-ion batteries, benefiting electric cars and consumer electronics.
New research suggests that negative social cues on tobacco packaging can trigger feelings of self-consciousness in smokers, particularly those who don't see smoking as identity-relevant. The study found that isolating smokers from positive social associations with smoking can be an effective tool to reduce smoking intentions.
A new study led by the University of Queensland and University of South Australia found that zinc oxide nanoparticles used in sunscreen do not penetrate the skin or cause cellular toxicity after repeated applications. The research refutes widespread claims about the safety of nanoparticulate-based sunscreens.
Researchers have found that electroencephalography (EEG) can identify patients who are cognitively aware but unable to respond due to severe brain injury. The study suggests that EEG may be used as a cost-effective screening tool to help stratify patients and identify those with high levels of cognitive function.
A UCSF study found that kindergarten friendships can promote better behavior in children with harshly parented backgrounds. Warm relationships with peers and teachers also mitigate adverse effects, suggesting that treating oppositional defiant disorder outside the family environment may be helpful.
Researchers found that non-invasive skin autofluorescence measurement can predict future risk of type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and mortality. A single measurement was associated with a 3-fold increase in risk of type 2 diabetes or CVD.
A clinical study conducted by Wake Forest School of Medicine shows that Cereset's HIRREM technology significantly reduces symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in military personnel. The study also found improvements in brain function and reduced symptoms lasting at least six months.
A new immunomodulatory drug, EAPB0503, shows potent in vitro activity against two strains causing cutaneous leishmaniasis. The treatment has the potential to overcome limitations of existing therapies, which include painful injections and high costs.
Nurses can collect and analyze data using smartphone applications, leading to improvements in data quality and better health outcomes for patients with HIV/AIDS. A larger selection of apps is needed to scale up mHealth innovations and combat the pandemic.