A parasitic wasp, Idris elba, has been discovered to target the eggs of an invasive stink bug, bagrada bug, which affects cruciferous vegetables. The finding marks a significant step toward developing natural control measures for the pest.
Physicist Fatima Ebrahimi's high-resolution simulations show that CHI can produce continuous current in larger tokamaks, enabling stable fusion plasmas. The technique creates magnetic bubbles to induce current, which could be used in fusion facilities worldwide
The study found that energy needs for providing decent living standards are well below current national and global energy use, especially for basic human needs like health and education. Developing countries face different resource needs to meet the same human development goals, requiring policymakers to invest in public transit, green...
Scientists at UCLA Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center developed a new high-throughput screening system that identifies selective inhibitors of metabolic pathways. The approach revealed multiple kinase inhibitors block nucleotide metabolism and its targets.
A new study found that ketamine decreases alcohol consumption in high-consuming male rats, but has no effect on females. The drug may be a viable treatment option for male patients with an alcohol use disorder.
A RAND Corporation study finds that allowing people aged 50-64 to buy into Medicare would lower health care premiums for this group. However, it would drive up costs for younger Americans who buy health insurance on exchanges created under the Affordable Care Act. The estimated premium to buy into Medicare would be around $10,000 per y...
Researchers analyzed hundreds of hyolith fossils and discovered soft parts with tentaculate feeding organs, challenging the current phylogenetic placement. The findings suggest that hyoliths likely occupied a more basal position in the Lophophorata, contrary to previous assumptions.
Research by Princeton University shows a reversal of global terrestrial stilling, with wind speeds in northern mid-latitude regions increasing by 7% since 2010. This trend has significant implications for wind power generation, predicting a 17% increase in energy production and a potential 37% increase by 2024.
A study published in Addictive Behaviors Reports found that money spent on beer ads strongly predicts brand awareness and usage among teens. Researchers discovered cognitive strategies used by advertisers appeal to youth, leading to increased consumption and heavy drinking.
A new study by Emory University researchers found a nearly 15% increase in drug abuse treatment admissions and a 6% increase in overdose deaths since Craigslist's founding. Online platforms like Craigslist provide anonymity, driving previously unaffected populations into the market.
A new study by Penn Medicine found that counties with worse economies had higher cardiovascular mortality rates, particularly among middle-aged adults. The research suggests that economic disparities contribute directly to health disparities and highlights the need for interventions such as policies like a health insurance expansion.
The DOE's Innovative and Novel Computational Impact on Theory and Experiment program has awarded supercomputer access to 47 science projects for 2020. Projects will explore topics such as galaxy formation, molecular dynamics, and engineering simulations.
No-till with cover crop systems have produced higher net returns than conventional till in Texas cotton systems. The practice also improves soil health, water storage, and long-term yield potential.
Adolescents from sexual minorities in the UK are more likely to experience mental health problems, self-harm, and bullying compared to their heterosexual counterparts. The study found that sexual minority adolescents face higher rates of depression, lower life satisfaction, and increased substance use.
A new study reveals that nitrous oxide emissions have increased significantly over the past two decades, with a faster rate of increase in the last decade. The authors estimate that global N2O emissions have increased by 1.6 TgN y-1 between 2000-2005 and 2010-2015.
Researchers developed a Virtual Pointer technology to improve laparoscopic surgery training. Trainees experienced reduced cognitive load and increased task performance when using the system.
A study of 317 transgender children in the US and Canada found that their gender development is comparable to that of cisgender peers. The research suggests that social transition timing does not impact gender identity, paving the way for further exploration of demographic and family influences on gender development.
Researchers at Ben-Gurion University of the Negev and the Salk Institute will explore how spinal networks control movement, developing new treatments for neurological diseases and spinal cord injuries. They aim to create a high-resolution atlas of mouse brain movements and develop testable models of neural interactions.
Researchers discovered Caenorhabditis nematodes harboring virus-like RNA elements that are transmitted to offspring, suggesting a new route of viral transmission in multicellular animals. This finding expands our understanding of viruses beyond traditional capsid-based transmission methods.
A new method called VarID quantifies gene expression variability across groups of similar or related cell states, revealing the dynamics of biological noise during cell differentiation. This approach may help understand how gene expression noise regulates development and cell fate decisions.
The survival rate for high-risk neuroblastoma has increased significantly, with 43% of children surviving five years after diagnosis. Improved treatment methods, including chemotherapy and immunotherapy, have been responsible for the increased survival rate.
A Princeton University study reveals a type of foam can block specific wavelengths of light while allowing others to pass through, creating a photonic band gap. This property has the potential to control the flow of electrons in materials and could lead to breakthroughs in telecommunications.
A rapid test for cystic fibrosis has been developed using a 2-minute swiping process that analyzes compounds in perspiration samples, with 98% specificity and 96% sensitivity. The test uses desorption electrospray ionization mass spectrometry and machine learning to identify cases.
A study found striking disparities in in-hospital care and mortality between homeless and non-homeless adults hospitalized for urgent cardiovascular conditions. Homeless patients were significantly less likely to receive important diagnostic or therapeutic procedures and generally had higher in-hospital death rates compared to non-home...
A new study challenges the EU's approach to decarbonizing its economy, arguing that it overlooks the importance of functional societal change. The researchers propose a new methodological approach to analyze complex issues like electricity decarbonization, highlighting the need for policies that motivate use changes.
A study on cancer trends in Canada from 1971 to 2015 found an increase in breast and colorectal cancers among younger adults, particularly women aged 30-39. In contrast, cancer incidence has decreased in older age groups, with declines seen in cervical, lung, bladder, and prostate cancers across most age categories.
A new study found that nitrous oxide emissions have risen steadily since the mid-20th century, linked to increased nitrogen substrates released into the environment. The global rate of increase has been underestimated by current methods, and a global effort is needed to solve this problem.
A Michigan State University study found that older adults are more likely to use wearable activity trackers for longer periods if they offer a variety of functions, such as tracking calories burned or mood. Technological savviness and partnership-based motivation also play a crucial role in long-term adoption.
A study found that climate change impacts Arctic Terns' behavior and distribution in Antarctica, affecting their main food source of krill and habitat. The birds converged on the Shackleton Ice Shelf during a period of reduced krill abundance, highlighting the vulnerability of the species to climate change.
The University of Illinois Chicago and the Illinois Department of Public Health will improve maternal outcomes with a five-year federal grant. A new two-generation clinic and research center will provide comprehensive care to postpartum women and their newborns.
Researchers discover avian predentary was covered by keratinous beak, mobile and proprioceptive, representing a unique feeding adaptation. The finding sheds light on the evolution of bird skull structure.
A study from 2013-2017 found that China's strict clean air policies led to a significant decrease in particulate matter exposure. The policy changes resulted in an estimated 370,000 deaths avoided annually due to improved air quality.
A study by University of Notre Dame researchers found that conservative CEOs with natural risk aversion receive less performance-based pay than their liberal counterparts. In contrast, liberal CEOs with a willingness to take risks receive more performance-based pay. This challenges traditional corporate governance practices.
The University of Adelaide team identified an enzyme that helps produce natural tartaric acid in grapes, enabling winemakers to balance sweetness and acidity. This discovery has the potential to save the Australian wine industry significant sums of money by reducing reliance on expensive additives.
A randomized clinical trial found that providing HIV self-tests increased HIV testing and diagnosis among men who have sex with men. The study also improved rates of viral suppression and reduced stigma around HIV testing.
Researchers from Queen Mary University of London and the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew have identified genes associated with ash dieback resistance in UK trees. The study found that resistance is controlled by multiple genes, opening up new avenues for conservation and potentially breeding more resistant trees.
A study reveals how mitochondrial DNA is transmitted between generations, showing that a bottleneck occurs during oogenesis, reducing genetic diversity. This process can affect the inheritance of disease-related mutations, making it crucial for genetic counseling in women planning pregnancies.
The most serious threat to the potato industry in the US is Potato Virus Y (PVY), which causes a 70-80% yield loss and necrotic reactions. New strains like PVY N-Wi and NTN have become dominant, making it challenging for diagnostic labs to detect them.
Research by McGill University scientists found that nanosized metal particles from the Athabasca oil sands accelerate ice nucleation, leading to more frequent and intense extreme weather events. The pollution is also significantly higher near the oil sands than in a Canadian city.
Researchers developed a free online app, eNTRyway, to speed up the discovery of new antibiotics for Gram-negative bacteria. The tool quickly evaluates potential drug compounds and can convert existing drugs into potent killers of Gram-negative pathogens.
Researchers have developed two methods to detect targeted online ads, enabling Data Protection Authorities to identify and protect specific demographic groups. The methods use content-based analysis and frequency-based detection, providing a valuable tool for GDPR compliance.
A study by UC Davis Health physicians reveals that opioid dose tapering is becoming increasingly common, with rates often exceeding CDC recommendations. The study found that nearly 20% of patients tapered at a rate of 40% per month, highlighting the need for more training and guidance on safe tapering practices.
Researchers at Osaka University have discovered a previously unknown type of RA-causing cell within arthritic joints that could be a target for new treatments. The newly discovered cells, dubbed 'AtoMs', have properties that make them amenable to therapeutic targeting.
Researchers reconstructed the beetle family tree, estimating timing and rates of diversification. Beetle genes facilitating herbivory were acquired through horizontal transfer from fungi and bacteria, enabling adaptability to flowering plants.
A US$250 million dollar agreement between Norway and Guyana reduced deforestation in Guyana by over 30 percent during the project period. However, deforestation increased immediately after the agreement ended, raising concerns about the long-term effectiveness of REDD+ programs.
Researchers at Penn State have developed a bio-inspired, liquid, sludge- and bacteria-repellent coating that can make toilets self-cleaning. The coating, called LESS, reduces the amount of water needed to flush a conventional toilet by half, making it more efficient and sustainable.
Critically ill patients undergoing heart stent procedures with Impella ventricular assist devices are at increased risk of bleeding, kidney problems, stroke, and death compared to those using balloon pumps. The study suggests a need for more research on the use of these devices in clinical practice.
Scientists at Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute identified a combination of two anti-cancer compounds that shrank pancreatic tumors in mice, supporting the immediate evaluation of the drugs in a clinical trial. The study provides rationale for an immediate clinical trial evaluating the 2 therapies
Researchers analyzed data on oil and gas well leakage in British Columbia, finding that 10.8% of wells showed reported leakage, with most incidents involving gas venting. Unremediated surface gas leakage from abandoned wells is estimated to produce significant GHG emissions, equivalent to nearly 75,000 metric tonnes of CO2 per year.
Cardiovascular disease in women often presents differently than in men and may not be diagnosed. Barbra Streisand joins Noel Bairey Merz, director of the Women's Heart Center at Cedars-Sinai, to discuss these key differences.
Exercise referral schemes have been shown to improve physical activity levels among individuals with long-term conditions. However, the analysis of data from 23,731 participants found that while significant improvements were observed in most measures, they did not reach clinical thresholds for meaningful impact.
A study by Indiana University researchers found that two immune receptors, Dectin-1 and TLR2, work together to trigger an inflammatory response against fungal infections. The discovery could lead to new treatments for diseases and improve cancer immunotherapies.
Scientists have characterised genetic alterations caused by six cancer therapies, revealing 'mutational footprints' that can help optimize treatment efficacy and minimize side effects. The study provides a new understanding of the relationship between therapy-induced mutations and long-term side effects.
A study of over 200 patients with bipolar disorder found that high levels of inflammation, as measured by C-reactive protein, were significantly linked to poor cognitive performance. This suggests a potentially modifiable risk factor for cognitive deficits, and highlights the importance of addressing inflammation in treatment.
The new guidelines call for better access to CDK4/6 inhibitors and anti-HER2 therapies for patients with advanced breast cancer. Experts also stress the need for adequate pain control, particularly in countries where opioids are scarce or misused.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins University have developed a new method for producing atomically-thin semiconducting crystals, which could lead to advances in quantum computing, nanotechnology, and consumer electronics. The breakthrough method enables faster and less expensive production of next-generation semiconductor crystals.
Researchers have developed a process to create synthetic polymers with precision of biology, enabling the production of advanced materials such as nanoelectronics, self-healing materials, and fuel cells. This breakthrough could lead to improved personal protective gear and sophisticated electronics for Soldiers.
Researchers analyzed stable carbon and nitrogen isotopes in fur samples from 29 species of mammals to measure the impact of agriculture on their diet. The study found that herbivores and omnivores inhabiting forest fragments consumed agricultural resources, while carnivores close to croplands preyed on prey that feed on these resources.
A new study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology found no association between statin use and memory or cognitive decline in elderly patients. Statin users showed similar cognitive performance to never-users, suggesting potential protective effects in this population.
A new study has found that early menopause is associated with a higher risk of developing cardiovascular diseases. The observational study revealed a significant increase in cardiovascular events among women who experienced natural premature menopause or surgery-induced menopause before age 40.