The GeoFarmer app enables smallholder farmers to collect and share vital information on climate-related agricultural interventions. Farmers produced tens of thousands of data points despite limited internet connectivity, demonstrating the app's potential to increase communication and empower farmers.
A new computer model, NarcoLogic, reveals that cocaine interdiction strategies actually fuel the spread of trafficking networks. The study suggests that decades of war on drugs have had little effect on reducing cocaine supply or prices, and that increased interdiction will only push traffickers into new areas.
Climate change is causing retrogressive thaw slumps to form on Banks Island, leading to a 60-fold increase in landslides since the 1980s. The impact on aquatic ecosystems and fish populations is unknown due to lack of baseline data.
Researchers at University of Bath created a mouse model for Joubert Syndrome by deleting portions of the Talpid3 gene, reproducing physical abnormalities and progressive ataxia in mice. The study aims to accelerate research into the disease and develop new treatments.
Researchers at Osaka University have developed a therapeutic drug that emits highly effective alpha rays to treat refractory thyroid cancer. The study showed promising results, with mice surviving nearly three times longer and tumors shrinking by several-fold after treatment.
A team of MU researchers used deep learning to predict material structures and their properties in graphene, a strong material. The study enables the design of new materials with specific properties, such as LEDs, touch screens, smartphones, and solar cells.
A large genomic study of nearly 275,000 people identified 18 genetic variants associated with either heavy alcohol consumption or alcohol use disorder. The study suggests that certain genes, such as DRD2 and SIX3, may need to be present for people to develop AUD. This research may inform future treatments for each alcohol disorder.
The Gerontological Society of America (GSA) is leading the next phase of the Reframing Aging Initiative, a long-term social change endeavor to improve public understanding of aging. The initiative aims to counter negative views of aging and promote accurate perceptions.
Access to broadband internet increases fertility rates among higher-educated women by 8.7% compared to 7.2%, with improved work-life balance due to teleworking and part-time working. This effect is less pronounced for lesser-educated women, highlighting a digital divide.
Scientists have identified a new ebolavirus species, Bombali virus, in an Angolan free-tailed bat captured in Kenya. The researchers found high amounts of the virus in bat tissues, confirming productive infection occurs in this species.
A new study challenges the US Department of Energy's plan to expand offshore wind power, citing supply chain issues with rare earth metals like neodymium. The researchers found that creating a domestic program could raise questions about natural resource consumption and recyclability.
Acute flaccid myelitis, caused by recent infections including polioviruses or non-polio enteroviruses, presents significant challenges to patients and researchers. Early intensive physical therapy has shown promise in improving outcomes for polio patients, suggesting potential benefits for AFM patients.
A two-year study found that wild bees thrive in areas with moderate to severe forest fires, which creates a favorable environment for their survival. The researchers detected a significant increase in bee populations and diversity in these zones, highlighting the importance of fire severity as a predictor of bee habitat.
A new research project aims to develop an automated resilience management system (ARMS) to improve the city's power grid in case of a power outage. The system will utilize distributed solar photovoltaics, distributed energy resources, fault detection sensors, and distribution monitoring equipment to enhance critical infrastructure and ...
Scientists have developed a method to manufacture spider silk and other difficult-to-make proteins using engineered bacteria. The production of these proteins could be useful during future space missions, such as producing bullet-proof fabric or surgical sutures.
A new study published in Radiology found that bariatric embolization produces significant weight loss and reduces appetite for up to one year. The procedure involves blocking arteries with beads to suppress hunger-stimulating hormones. Researchers saw encouraging signs of metabolic changes, including improved quality of life.
A team of researchers developed an AI method for automated image analysis of brain tumors, which outperforms traditional radiological methods. The new approach enables more reliable and precise assessment of therapy response, improving overall survival predictions.
A new editorial argues that the term 'second victim' unfairly shifts blame from healthcare systems to individual providers. The University of Kentucky's Melissa Clarkson and co-authors advocate for a patient-centered approach, prioritizing cultural changes over institutional scapegoating.
The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control reports a 10% decrease in newly diagnosed hepatitis C cases between 2016 and 2017, with over 31,000 cases reported in 2017. However, diagnoses remain high due to under-reporting and variation in national testing practices.
Researchers have demonstrated the real-world utility of direct antenna modulation (DAM) for boosting radio signal quality when transmitting at high data rates. The method has applications in military communications and can improve signal quality dramatically with much smaller antennas.
A retrospective cohort study found that surgery was associated with a 44% increased chance of survival for women with HER2+ stage 4 breast cancer, especially those with Medicare or private insurance. The study also revealed disparities in healthcare access and outcomes due to race and socioeconomic factors.
Children born into poverty show weaker brain activity and poorer distractor suppression in the left frontal cortex area of the brain that is involved in working memory. Researchers used portable neuroimaging technologies to measure brain activity in children aged four months to four years in rural India.
A new class of intelligent metamaterials, called metashells, has been developed to respond to nearby objects. These materials can change their physical characteristics, such as permittivity, in accordance with the electromagnetic properties of the material they contain, enabling adaptive behavior.
A team from Kyoto University analyzed the dispersal patterns of golden lion tamarins, revealing that males and females use different tactics to maximize their reproductive success. The study aims to inform management strategies for conserving other threatened species.
A new University of Liverpool-led study highlights the effectiveness of a brief group psychological intervention for women affected by anxiety and depression in post-conflict Pakistan. The intervention, known as Group Problem Management Plus, was tested in a randomized controlled trial involving 612 women in rural Swat, with promising ...
In a groundbreaking study, scientists at the University of Sydney observed a normally live-bearing Australian lizard lay eggs and then weeks later, give birth to a live baby from the same pregnancy. This unusual reproductive trait is known as bimodality, where some individuals lay eggs while others give birth to live young.
A study published in Experimental Physiology found that shift work can have a long-term effect on the risk of heart disease and diabetes. Shift work was shown to negatively impact the breakdown of triglycerides and sugar utilization in the body, increasing the risk of these diseases.
Researchers at Purdue University have discovered that blue light can render MRSA bacteria defenseless against antiseptics like hydrogen peroxide. This new method uses photobleaching to reduce pigment production in the bacteria, making it a promising alternative to traditional antibiotics.
Research team discovers that habitat loss causes double damage to biodiversity, with local extinctions linked to reduced ability for species to recolonize neighboring patches. Spatial processes and metacommunities play a key role in this phenomenon.
Researchers found that injecting manure into the soil versus broadcasting it on the surface can conserve nitrogen, while planting rye as a winter cover crop or double-cropping rye and corn can increase forage production. By incorporating these strategies, dairy farmers can reduce nitrogen loss and improve water quality.
Researchers at Hokkaido University used sonar to map the underwater shape of Grey Glacier, revealing a submerged terrace extending 100 meters beyond its visible portion. This unique structure is different from ocean-bound glaciers and can lead to huge chunks of ice falling off, posing a safety risk to humans in the vicinity.
Global prostate cancer incidence and mortality rates are decreasing or stabilizing, with the US experiencing a significant decline. The study highlights improvements in detection practices and treatment, but notes that PSA screening may contribute to diagnosis at later stages and higher mortality rates.
Researchers found that TV viewers who multitask and engage in social media activity during specific programs experience increased online shopping behavior. The study also revealed that the type of ad can impact the effectiveness of this phenomenon.
Researchers found that acetaminophen use was associated with a slightly higher risk of stroke in people with diabetes. In contrast, the medication did not increase the risk of heart attacks or overall deaths. The study suggests that older adults with diabetes should exercise caution when taking acetaminophen.
A new study published in Lithosphere found that Permian volcanism contributed to increased atmospheric greenhouse gas content in Antarctica. The researchers analyzed age and isotopic data from zircon minerals, expanding the known distribution of Choiyoi-related deposits and highlighting the importance of subduction-related volcanism.
Scientists have discovered a unique biomolecule that can alter the structure of water and prevent ice crystals from forming. This antifreeze characteristic could be used to develop synthetic versions for de-icing airplanes, preserving organs, and preventing freezer burn on ice cream.
Michael Snyder received the 2019 George W. Beadle Award for his contributions to systems biology, including the development of widely-used technology for simultaneous gene analysis. His work has enabled the tracking of RNA molecules, proteins, and genes in humans, paving the way for personalized medicine.
Researchers have discovered new magnets based on more readily available rare earths and some promising magnets without these materials. These findings aim to ease the demand for scarce rare-earth permanent magnets by identifying alternative options.
A nationwide study found that amyloid PET imaging significantly influenced clinical management of patients with mild cognitive impairment and dementia. The technique altered diagnoses and treatment plans in nearly two-thirds of cases, more than double predictions.
A new study from Thomas Jefferson University reveals that decreased oxygen supply to tendons leads to a loss of flexibility and an increase in fibrocartilage-like cells. This knowledge could help develop better treatments for tendinosis and regrow damaged tissue, which is common in older individuals.
A recent study by Elic Weitzel found that humans transitioned from hunting and gathering to agriculture in response to changes in their environment, including declining food sources and shifting climates. The research analyzed animal bones and pollen data from Eastern United States sites, revealing a link between population growth and ...
Claudia Bank wins the 2019 SMBE Allan Wilson Junior Award for her innovative research on population genetics of adaptation and speciation. The award recognizes her multidisciplinary basic research at Instituto Gulbenkian de Ciência.
Scientists discover a simple mechanism that allows prebiotic information-bearing DNA sequences to outcompete shorter molecules, enabling the survival and transmission of genetic information. Templated ligation promotes cooperation among complementary sequences, creating stable majorities through intermolecular assembly and replication.
Scientists use tiny needles and electric current to reshape cartilage without cutting or suturing. By electrolyzing water in the tissue, they reduce charge density and make the cartilage more malleable, allowing for precise shaping.
A new study from The Westmead Institute for Medical Research identified a genetic variant associated with liver fibrosis in chronic hepatitis C patients. This finding is crucial for preventing health complications and reducing the number of patients requiring liver transplants.
A study by Canadian researchers reveals that hands play a central role in transferring organophosphate ester (OPE) flame retardants and plasticizers through the indoor environment. The study found that most chemicals were present on all surfaces, including electronic devices, floor dust, and participant's hands.
Researchers discovered an unconventional signaling pathway in Trypanosoma brucei, a parasite that causes sleeping sickness. The study identifies a new compound activator for protein kinase A (PKA), potentially leading to targeted therapies.
A groundbreaking study using DNA sequencing technology reconstructs the moss family tree, revealing a highly dynamic evolutionary history and significant morphological innovations. The research also sheds light on the rate of evolutionary changes and the diversification of moss structures.
Researchers at Binghamton University have developed skin-inspired electronics to monitor lactate and oxygen levels on the skin, enabling long-term, high-performance wound monitoring. The sensor's bio-mimicry structure allows for invisible integration with biological tissue, reducing inflammation and evoking no response.
Researchers at Oregon State University discovered that two hop-derived compounds inhibit liver and colon cancer cell growth effectively similar to xanthohumol. These non-estrogenic derivatives offer promising alternatives for future preclinical studies.
A new UK-based study reveals that alcohol, cannabis, MDMA, and cocaine are the most commonly combined with sex. The research found that people of all genders and sexual orientations engage in substance-linked sex, but gay and bisexual men are more likely to do so.
Researchers have identified a fungal compound that may inhibit the causative bacteria of citrus greening disease, which has reduced juice orange yields by half in the last 15 years. The compound, radicinin, was isolated and purified from a fungus that inhibits the growth of the bacteria.
A recent survey of 1,200 teachers found that workload and work-life balance were the main reasons for leaving or considering leaving the profession. The study suggests that addressing these issues may not be enough to prevent a significant number of new teachers from leaving within ten years.
Researchers have found that invasive round gobies in French Creek are consuming native freshwater mussels, posing a significant threat to their survival. The study's findings highlight the potential ecological disaster if gobies continue to spread in the watershed.
Researchers at Rice University have developed a new method for recycling spent lithium-ion batteries using an environmentally friendly deep eutectic solvent. The solvent successfully extracted over 90% of cobalt and significant amounts of lithium from powdered compounds and used batteries, making it a promising approach to curtail hars...
A study published in Fertility and Sterility found that female reproductive endocrinology and infertility subspecialists make $67,000 less than their male counterparts annually. Researchers attribute the pay gap to factors such as salary compression and women's reluctance to negotiate over salary.
Researchers discovered that a cellular protein acts as a 'gas pump attendant' controlling cancer cell growth, ensuring only necessary proteins are produced. This understanding may lead to new ways to inhibit cancer development.
A preclinical study has shown that a cancer preventive vaccine may be effective in preventing cancers associated with Lynch syndrome. The vaccine was found to reduce intestinal tumor burden and improve survival in mice with the genetic mutation, suggesting potential as a treatment option.
Scientists are developing ultra-high precision synthetic polymers with precisely controlled chain lengths and monomer sequences. These information-containing macromolecules can be deployed for data storage, anti-counterfeiting and traceability technologies.
Researchers estimated how common carriers of intermediate and pathological range polyglutamine disease-associated gene variants were among the general population using data from five European studies. The study found that approximately 2% of participants carried intermediate range variants and 1% carried pathological range variants.