A Dartmouth study highlights the need for transparency in self-driving car geospatial data, which can be used to inform decisions on traffic management, urban planning and public projects. Hacking, open source design and legislation are proposed avenues to address concerns over privacy and security.
Researchers at Gladstone Institutes discover that a blood-clotting protein called fibrinogen destroys connections between neurons in the brain, resulting in cognitive decline. This finding offers an alternative explanation for memory loss and cognitive decline in Alzheimer's disease.
Tropical Cyclone 12S has developed in the Southern Indian Ocean, with NASA-NOAA's Suomi NPP satellite capturing its formation on Feb. 5, 2019. The storm is expected to strengthen into a hurricane-force storm by Feb. 7, affecting the Republic of Mauritius.
Researchers have revised the history of big, climate-altering volcanic eruptions using a new method that accurately identifies airborne particles in Antarctic ice cores. The study confirms many events and corrects misidentifications, revealing new information on large stratospheric eruptions over the past 2,600 years.
A new study published in Human Reproduction found that men who have smoked marijuana at some point in their life had significantly higher concentrations of sperm compared to men who have never smoked. The study also found no significant difference in sperm concentrations between current and former marijuana smokers.
Conflict with mothers during early years of elementary school may predict a child's struggle to find purpose as an adult. A study from Washington University in St. Louis found that children who reported conflicted relationships with their mothers were more likely to experience a sense of confusion and uncertainty about their life path.
A new European Fans in Training (EuroFIT) program has shown promise in increasing physical activity among male football fans in Europe. The 12-week group-based program resulted in improved physical activity and reduced sedentary time, with participants also experiencing improvements in diet, body weight, and well-being.
A new study found that closely monitoring brain activity during surgery and adjusting anesthesia levels had no effect on preventing postoperative delirium. However, patients with close brain monitoring had significantly lower 30-day mortality rates.
A team at NYU Tandon School of Engineering has designed an artificial neural network approach that can predict the elastic modulus of graphene-enhanced composites from just one sample, streamlining materials testing. This reduces the need for extensive experimentation, lowering costs and accelerating product development.
Researchers created an interactive audio map of nonverbal vocal communication, revealing 24 kinds of emotion conveyed through 'vocal bursts'. The study suggests humans are attuned to subtle differences in nonverbal signals, allowing for nuanced understanding of emotional states.
Conservationists have successfully used acoustic monitoring devices to track the movements of reintroduced hihi birds, marking a breakthrough for conservation efforts. The 'stitch' call of the endangered species was found to change from random distribution to settled home range, indicating success.
A large-scale genetic study has linked hundreds of genes to depression, providing new insights into the condition's origins. The study also suggests that neuroticism may contribute to depression risk and could inform personalized treatments.
Scientists successfully created functional blood vessels in vitro for rat hearts after a heart attack, resulting in increased blood flow to the engineered tissue. This innovation offers hope for treatments that could help patients regrow heart muscle tissue and achieve more complete recovery.
A University of Kansas geologist's work in the remote High Arctic has exposed the global spread of antibiotic-resistant microbes, including multidrug-resistant 'superbugs'. Researchers found 131 antibiotic-resistant genes in Svalbard soil samples, with some tracing back to human sewage or bird guano.
Researchers used time-lapse microscopy to reveal a key protein's role as a 'brake' controlling sporulation timing in Streptomyces. The study found that removing this brake leads to premature sporulation, highlighting the importance of BldC protein binding on the chromosome.
Researchers at the University of Houston's Akay Lab found that chronic nicotine exposure during pregnancy significantly activates dopamine neurons in newborns, leading to unusually high levels of dopamine. This altered gene expression may hold the key to developing targeted medication to eliminate addiction in offspring.
Researchers found that leaves in grassland communities change their nutrient content in response to fertilisation, climate and soil conditions. This discovery provides a new tool for understanding the impact of environmental changes on ecosystems.
Macrophages play a vital role in controlling the processes of nerve repair following damage by secreting repulsive cues. The interaction between Slit3 and Robo1 allows for the migration of Schwann cells and regrowing nerve projections, enabling successful regeneration and recovery of nerve function.
A genus of deaf moth has evolved a novel sound-producing structure in its wings to warn bats of its presence. The discovery suggests that the moths are acoustically mimicking unpalatable, sound-producing moths to deter bats.
Astronomers at the University of California, Riverside, have created a workshop that converts astronomical phenomena into vibrations for students with hearing loss. The workshop uses storytelling, videos, and images to bring meaning to the sounds of the universe, making it an engaging experience for deaf students.
A Swedish patient has become the first recipient of an osseo-neuromuscular implant to control a dexterous hand prosthesis. The breakthrough technology enables patients to use implanted neuromuscular interfaces to control their prostheses while perceiving sensations in daily life.
A multidisciplinary team of researchers has developed a human induced pluripotent stem cell (IPSC) derived 3D organoid model for drug testing. The system demonstrated anti-tumor efficacy with doxorubicin and predicted clinical response to temozolomide, offering a more personalized approach to treating glioblastoma.
Researchers at Penn State College of Medicine identified 10 synthetic cannabinoid compounds that effectively inhibited the growth of seven types of human colon cancer cells. These compounds work through alternative mechanisms, not relying on traditional marijuana receptors, and hold promise for developing drugs to treat cancer.
Researchers found that playing Pokémon GO increased step counts among middle-aged and elderly adults, suggesting a positive impact on physical activity. The study's findings could inform urban planners and game designers to encourage more people to engage in regular exercise.
Treating psoriasis with biologic drugs has been shown to reduce early plaque buildup in arteries, restricting blood flow and leading to heart attacks and stroke. The study highlights the potential of immunotherapies in reducing cardiovascular disease risks.
A large UK population-based study found no association between the antidepressant trazodone and a reduced risk of dementia. Researchers analyzed data from over 15 million patients and compared them with users of other antidepressants, but found higher incidence rates among trazodone users.
A comprehensive exposome approach by Barcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal) reveals early life exposure to parabens, phthalates, and PFAS associated with reduced lung function in children. The study highlights the importance of preventing exposure to chemical substances through regulation and labelling of consumer products.
A study published in Scientific Reports found that psychological placebos can have a positive impact on participants' well-being when attributed to them. The results suggest that the narrative associated with the placebo, as well as the relationship between the researcher and participant, play a crucial role in this effect.
A meta-analysis of 16 randomized controlled trials found that all types of dietary improvement significantly reduce depressive symptoms, with weight loss, fat reduction, and nutrient-improving diets having similar benefits. Simple changes like eating more fiber-rich meals can be effective in improving mental health.
Researchers found that moderate cannabis use is associated with higher sperm concentrations and testosterone levels compared to non-smokers. However, the study highlights the need for more research on the effects of cannabis on reproductive health due to limitations in the data collection process.
Researchers at MIT have developed a new microscopy technique that allows the observation of a metal surface during hydrogen penetration. This breakthrough could lead to safer reactor vessels and more efficient hydrogen storage tanks. The technique, which uses a liquid electrolyte to expose metal surfaces to a hydrogen environment, has ...
A new microchip technology can identify the optimal medication and dosage for effective treatment of bacterial infections in six to seven hours. The microchip's innovative design features enable it to determine the minimum inhibitory dosage that prevents bacterial growth, a crucial step in treating life-threatening infections.
A new study found that spending more time watching TV is associated with a higher risk of developing colorectal cancer in people under 50. The research, published in JNCI Cancer Spectrum, suggests that sedentary behaviors like watching TV may be a distinct risk factor for young-onset colorectal cancer.
A federally funded study of nearly 400 patients found that compounded topical pain creams and gels offer no statistically significant difference in pain relief compared to placebos. The researchers concluded that people using these creams are being taken advantage of, as the scientific evidence supporting their benefits is lacking.
Researchers found implicit bias and mistrust issues leading to reduced treatment rates for black patients. A new system-based intervention eliminated disparities by providing real-time transparency and enhanced patient-centered communication.
Researchers at USC developed a new 3D-printed rubber material that can repair itself after damage, reducing manufacturing time and increasing product durability. The material was manufactured using photopolymerization and exhibits self-healing properties through the transformation of chemical groups.
Researchers at LMU Munich develop a novel enhancement resonator to generate ultrafast laser pulses, enabling the characterization of multidimensional electron motions in weeks instead of months. The technique opens new opportunities for investigating local electric fields in nanostructures.
A new study found that school suspension and expulsion are more effective predictors of youth drug use than police arrests, particularly among minority youth. The research suggests that removing students from school can facilitate drug use due to lack of supervision, whereas being arrested does not necessarily lead to drug use.
A new study reveals significant venom variation among Florida pygmy rattlesnakes, with individual snakes having varying effectiveness against lizard prey. The research suggests that the toxicity of snake venom may be adapted to specific prey species.
A comprehensive study on ST3GAL5 deficiency, a rare genetic disorder affecting ganglioside synthesis, provides insights into its clinical characterization and natural course. Researchers hope to develop pre-symptomatic therapies using gene replacement techniques.
Wellcome and DNDi partner to develop novel, orally administered treatments for leishmaniasis, a devastating parasitic disease affecting one billion people worldwide. The three-year programme aims to select two new chemical entities for Phase II studies, focusing on safety, efficacy, affordability, and administration.
Rice University researchers have developed a nano-infused ceramic that can act as a sensor for structures, monitoring their health and reporting damage. The ceramic's unique electrical properties make it suitable for self-sensing applications in buildings, bridges, and aircraft.
Scientists have identified four new anti-CRISPR proteins that can regulate CRISPR-Cas9 systems better. These proteins were found in soil and human gut samples, suggesting they are widespread in nature.
The Meridies Medieval History research group at the University of Cordoba collaborated with chemists to replicate five medieval inks. The team analyzed handwritten recipes, translated texts, and analyzed chemical reactions to recreate the exact same inks used six centuries ago.
Researchers have identified CDK6 as a significant factor in the development of JAK2V617F-initiated MPNs. The absence of CDK6 reduces proliferation of affected stem cells and increases life expectancy for patients.
This special issue analyzes the negotiation tactics of U.S. President Donald Trump and their implications for various areas, including international diplomacy, trade negotiations, business, labor, societal conflict, and peacebuilding. Thirty-five experts examine Trump's bargaining style and its impact on different fields.
Scientists from Cardiff University propose that volcanic activity played a significant role in the emergence of the Isthmus of Panama, which formed around 2.8 million years ago. This discovery sheds light on one of Earth's most significant geological events, affecting global weather patterns and biodiversity.
A study of over 630,000 Danish children with and without type 1 diabetes found no significant differences in reading and math scores. The findings suggest that the relationship between type 1 diabetes and poor academic performance may not be universal.
Researchers have discovered genetic switches that ignite axon formation, revealing the role of PTBP2 and SHTN1 genes. The study shows how alternative splicing enables neurons to produce long axons, essential for neural communication.
A study by RAND Corporation finds that OxyContin reformulation in 2010 led to a large rise in hepatitis C infections as drug abusers switched to injectable heroin. States with higher rates of OxyContin misuse prior to the reformulation saw a three-fold increase in hepatitis C infections.
Astronomers using ALMA have detected complex organic molecules around the young star V883 Ori, similar to those found in comets in our Solar System. The distribution of these molecules has a ring-like structure with a radius of 60 au, which is twice the size of Neptune's orbit.
The Bitsliced Genomic Signature Index (BIGSI) allows researchers to identify antibiotic resistance genes and mutations in real time, making vast amounts of genomic data discoverable. This enables the study of disease dynamics, understanding of bacterial ancestry, and prediction of drug resistance.
A study has discovered and isolated more than 100 completely new species of bacteria from healthy people's intestines, creating the most comprehensive collection of human intestinal bacteria to date. This will help researchers worldwide to investigate how our microbiome keeps us healthy and its role in disease.
A study evaluating the impact of the 100-year Northwest Forest Plan found that old-growth forests are declining due to increased fires, while regenerating habitats are increasing in some regions. Despite these findings, the authors recommend continued conservation efforts for old-growth habitats.
African Americans, especially women, face a significantly higher risk of sudden cardiac death due to factors like low income and education. The study found that these disparities accounted for 65% of the difference in risk between African Americans and whites.
A study found that rates of intrauterine device and implant insertions increased by 21.6% in the 30 days after the 2016 election compared to the same time period in 2015. This increase is attributed to women's concerns about losing contraceptive coverage under the Trump administration.
New research identifies insecticide combinations that are lethal to honeybees and their larvae, leading to a recommendation to stop using these chemicals during almond bloom. The study's findings have already led to changes in industry practices, with many growers backing off insecticide use.
A new study finds rates are increasing for six of 12 obesity-related cancers in younger adults in the US, with steeper increases in progressively younger ages. Excess body weight is a known carcinogen associated with more than a dozen cancers and suspected in several more.
A team of engineers at Dartmouth College has developed a dime-sized invention that converts the kinetic energy of the heart into electricity, powering implantable devices like pacemakers and defibrillators. The new technology could potentially replace batteries with surgery, reducing complications and costs.
A large study found that parental time has a powerful impact on educational achievement. The longer a parent is absent, the less impact their education has on their child's success. Mothers' education levels have a stronger effect than fathers', particularly in larger families where mothers spend more time with children.