A new study at the University of Hawaii found that a tropical marine sponge obtains essential nutrients from its symbiotic bacteria, not from filtering seawater. This discovery provides insight into the biology of sponges and highlights the importance of marine microbes in their diet.
New analysis reveals Europe's onshore wind farms could supply enough energy for the world until 2050, producing 497 EJ of power. The study identifies Turkey, Russia, and Norway as having the greatest potential for future wind power density.
Researchers from the University of California, Davis and the University of Wisconsin-Madison identified neurotrophin-3 as a key molecule in anxiety models. Boosting this molecule reduced anxiety-related behaviors in nonhuman primates.
A new study published in PLOS ONE reveals that women and men perform equally when required to switch attention between tasks or perform two tasks simultaneously. Multitasking imposes a substantial cost on both speed and accuracy for both men and women, with no difference between the two groups in the magnitude of the cost.
Researchers have developed a new 'ubiquitin clipping' technique to study protein modifications, revealing branched ubiquitin chains are common and could impact diseases like cancer and neurodegenerative disorders. The technique enables detailed experimentation, providing insights into disease mechanisms and potential drug targets.
A two-step gene therapy treatment has shown promise in treating recurrent glioblastoma by boosting IL-12 production and enhancing antitumor immune cell infiltration. The treatment has also been found to be safe, with serious side effects easily reversible after discontinuing treatment.
Researchers at ETH Zurich developed a new CRISPR-Cas method that can modify up to 25 target sites within genes in a single step. This technology enables targeted, large-scale cell reprogramming by systematically modifying entire gene networks, with potential applications in basic research and cell replacement therapy.
The All of Us Research Program has made strong progress in advancing precision medicine by collecting diverse participant data. The program aims to include 1 million or more people from diverse communities, with over 230,000 participants enrolled and 80% from underrepresented groups.
Researchers are creating a database to catalog teacher misconduct cases in Texas, aiming to inform policymakers with empirical data on educator sexual misconduct. The database will include employment and certification data, shedding light on patterns among offender educators.
A phase 1 clinical trial found that combining AZD1775, a Wee1 inhibitor, with radiation and gemcitabine resulted in better-than-expected overall survival in patients with locally advanced pancreatic cancer. The median overall survival was 22 months, surpassing previous results for the same treatment combination.
Stroke survivors who completed group-based aerobic exercise programs showed significant improvements in aerobic endurance and walking speed. Participants with mild movement impairments benefited the most, with average distances walked during a six-minute test being almost half the size of a football field.
A new study has gained insights into the mechanism of vaccine-induced T cell immunity, shedding light on the regulation, gene expression, and metabolic pathways of T cells. The discovery of a marker, TfR1, suggests that T cell immunity depends on specific metabolites.
A new study reveals that up to 47.5% of patients who face life-threatening risks, such as domestic violence or depression, do not disclose this information to care providers. This phenomenon is linked to discomfort and a lack of trust between patients and providers.
Researchers developed an app called Bluetana that uses Bluetooth signature detection to identify gas pump skimmers. It has been shown to discover more skimmers and have a lower false positive rate than existing apps, allowing inspectors to quickly locate the devices without manual inspections.
Researchers at UNC School of Medicine find that adding rhamnolipids enhances the potency of aminoglycoside antibiotics against Staph infections, including MRSA. The study suggests a new strategy to overcome antibiotic resistance and has implications for treating various bacterial species.
Researchers at the University of Warwick have discovered a way to make patterned films of silver and copper without using toxic chemicals or expensive methods. The new method uses an extremely thin printed layer of organofluorine to prevent metal deposition, making it more sustainable and potentially cheaper.
A new small molecule drug, DYR219, targets the early instigator of Alzheimer's disease by inhibiting DYRK1 kinase. This approach delays amyloid plaque formation and improves cognitive performance in hybrid mice bred to develop AD-like symptoms.
Martin Nyffeler's study calculates the significant ecological role of insectivorous birds in consuming herbivorous insects and other arthropods. The research reveals that forest birds are major consumers of arthropod biomass, with an estimated 400-500 million tons of prey consumed annually.
The newly discovered Clevosaurus hadroprodon is the oldest known fossil of its kind in Gondwana, dating back to around 237-228 million years ago. Its unique dentition features a mix of primitive and derived teeth, challenging current understanding of sphenodontian evolution.
Researchers found that adding compost and cover crops to organic-certified systems increased soil carbon content by 12.6% over a 19-year period, outperforming the international '4 per 1000' initiative. This approach stores more carbon than previously calculated, highlighting the importance of balancing diet for microorganisms in soils.
Researchers studied skulls of New World leaf-nosed bats to understand the evolution of specialized diets and faces. They found that heterochrony influenced development, leading to primate-like faces for fruit-eating bats and wolf-like faces for bird- and rodent-eating bats.
The study reveals that non-cognitive skills such as conscientiousness and self-esteem play a significant role in determining graduate earnings. Graduates from STEM subjects tend to earn more than those from Arts subjects, while those from elite institutions also have higher earning potential. The research emphasizes the importance of c...
A new nanoparticle delivery tool targets metastatic cancer cells in lymph nodes, leading to improved survival rates and reduced tumor growth. The therapy, called iCluster, effectively treats cancer at primary tumor sites as well as distant lymph node metastases.
A new study by San Francisco State University Professor Ian Dunham finds that school savings accounts have lower savings rates in low-income neighborhoods with limited access to traditional banks and credit unions. These areas, dubbed 'financial deserts,' struggle with high fees from fringe financial services providers.
Researchers are developing technology to predict when a child will have an asthma attack and provide prevention and treatment suggestions. The system tracks geographical location, physical activity, air quality, and health data using smart phones, watches, and sensors.
Researchers developed an advanced method to detect low-level somatic mutations in intractable epilepsy with 100% accuracy, surpassing conventional sequencing analysis which stands at 30%. The study used deep sequencing replicates of major focal epilepsy genes and identified mutations in approximately 5% of patients.
A new paper highlights individual and systemic challenges faced by early-career female family physicians, including implicit bias, burnout, and unequal pay. The authors call for practical strategies such as training, flexible scheduling, and comprehensive leave policies to support female physicians and promote gender equity.
Researchers at Rutgers University highlight the need for individualized vitamin D guidelines, as optimal levels may vary across ethnic and racial groups. Current tests have limitations, and more standardization efforts are being made to improve accuracy.
Landos Biopharma has completed a $60 million Series B financing round to support global Phase 2 clinical trials of its lead product BT-11 for ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease. The funding will also advance additional pipeline candidates, addressing an unmet clinical need for new therapies in inflammatory bowel disease.
Scientists have developed a theory on how the brain stores and recalls the order of events, shedding light on memory dysfunctions. This new understanding has significant implications for treating mental health conditions like depression and schizophrenia.
A new study predicts that an additional dose of rotavirus vaccine at nine months old will provide a modest 5-16% reduction in RVGE incidence over the first three years. The study found that lower vaccine effectiveness during the second year of life is not necessarily due to waning immunity, but rather due to high rates of rotavirus tra...
A new study from the University of British Columbia found that amateur investors fail to diversify their portfolios, leading to increased financial risk. More experienced investors understand the importance of diversifying assets by including negatively correlated and uncorrelated assets.
A new study finds that female executives decrease the wage-gap for women at the top of a firm while widening it at the bottom. Female leadership also improves firm performance by boosting sales per worker when led by female CEOs.
Research reveals lavender oil exposure contributes to premature breast development in young girls and boys. Discontinuing use of lavender-containing products resolves the issue, suggesting essential oils mimic estrogen and block testosterone.
A study found that pay-for-performance programs can reduce access block but may also lead to discharges associated with return visits and admissions. The program's effectiveness depends on the inclusion of specific targets, such as admission time.
A study of 4,524 children found that those who didn't meet Canadian guidelines for sleep and recreational screen time were more likely to exhibit impulsive behavior. The research suggests that meeting these guidelines is associated with better decision-making and less impulsivity.
Researchers at UTEP are studying Cryptococcus neoformans, a fungus that causes life-threatening meningitis in AIDS patients. The team aims to understand the fungus's entry into the brain and develop therapeutics to block this process and stimulate immune cells.
Rutgers University-developed nanotechnology boosts stem cell transplantation research, enabling accurate characterization of human stem cell fates and biomarkers without destruction. This allows further analyses and biomedical applications, addressing a major hurdle in current cell-based therapies.
Researchers used AI to analyze wing patterns of Heliconius butterflies, confirming Müllerian mimicry theory and discovering new mechanisms of evolutionary novelty. The study found that species borrow features from each other, generating new patterns and increasing biological diversity.
Researchers developed a simple, high-throughput protocol to assess the maturation of hepatic-like cells (HPCs) from induced pluripotent stem cells. The protocol enables quick assessment of stem cell differentiation efficacy and helps optimize differentiation conditions for regenerative medicine.
A team of scientists has identified two genes, MS4A4A and TREM2, that influence the risk for both late-onset and early-onset Alzheimer's disease. Variants in these genes affect the brain's immune cells, which may hold a new strategy to delay or protect against the disease.
Researchers used an optimized AAV9 vector to deliver the galactosylceramidase gene to a mouse model of Krabbe disease, improving clinical symptoms and prolonging median survival. The treated mice lived up to 150 days, compared to 41 days for untreated mice.
A new approach combines acyclovir with activated carbon particles to improve the effectiveness of a common herpes medication. The combination reduces viral load and inflammation while minimizing side effects like kidney damage.
A new study confirms that women with type 2 diabetes are at greater risk for sleep disturbances during the menopause transition. The study found a significant association between diabetes and increased severity of sleep-related symptoms, particularly in Asian women.
Scientists at the Wyss Institute successfully manipulated four bacterial strains to exhibit beneficial interactions and balance in complex environments. By modifying their genomes, they encouraged the bacteria to adopt a live-and-let-live approach, promoting resilience and diversity within the consortia.
Researchers at the University of Kent studied magnetic monopoles and found that they can 'tunnel' through energy barriers, enabling their motion. This breakthrough could signal the development of new technologies based on moving magnetic monopoles instead of electric charges.
This observational study found that individuals with higher daytime and nighttime systolic blood pressure levels had an increased risk for cardiovascular events and death, independent of clinic-measured blood pressure. The findings suggest monitoring blood pressure outside the clinic during a 24-hour period may help identify African Am...
A recent study found that termite activity in wetlands improves soil structure and nutrient content. Termites help turn dead trees into valuable organic matter, increasing crucial soil carbon content.
Researchers at University of Turku investigate parasitoid wasp diversity in Kibale National Park, Uganda, finding that species abundance varies with weather and vegetation conditions. The study contributes to global understanding of parasitoid insect diversity and highlights the urgent need to protect tropical biodiversity.
A new study found that even low-intensity exercise was associated with a nearly 20% reduction in cancer progression or death in patients with advanced colorectal cancer. Patients who engaged in moderate exercise while undergoing chemotherapy tended to have delayed disease progression and fewer severe side effects from treatment.
A recent study published in Pigment Cell & Melanoma Research has found that genetic factors significantly influence not only the number of moles but also their location on the body. In women, the largest genetic impact is seen on the lower limbs, with a higher concentration of moles in this area compared to men.
A new study provides the most accurate estimate of the frequency that planets similar to Earth occur around sun-like stars, which will be important for designing future astronomical missions. The researchers' novel approach allows them to account for several effects not included in previous studies.
A comprehensive study confirms that excessive gluten consumption increases the risk of developing coeliac disease or pre-coeliac disease in young children. The study found a significant association between daily gluten intake over 2 grams and a 75% increase in risk, even at small amounts.
The study analyzed DNA sequencing data from over 3,500 human microbiome samples, revealing nearly 46 million bacterial genes. More than half of these genes were unique to each individual, performing specialized functions and suggesting a key role in microbial evolution.
A new study from the University of Oxford suggests that blockbuster movies like Finding Nemo and Zootopia do not drive demand for live animals, but instead increase information-seeking behavior. The research found that exposure to these films can bring attention to lesser-known species and environmental threats.
A team of researchers at Oregon State University has developed a new method for studying tsunami risk to coastal infrastructure. The technique uses a centrifuge to simulate the effects of tsunami waves on soil, allowing for more accurate modeling and potential engineering solutions.
Researchers at the University of Cambridge found that synovial fluid from osteoarthritic patients can directly excite sensory nerves, producing pain. The study provides new insights into the mechanisms of osteoarthritis and may lead to the development of more effective treatments.
Researchers at the University of Cambridge discovered that increasing brain stiffness as we age causes brain stem cell dysfunction. They developed new materials to study this effect, showing that older stem cells can be rejuvenated into younger, healthier states.
Tropical Storm Krosa is expected to make landfall in western Shikoku Island, Japan, with powerful thunderstorms and heavy rain capabilities. The storm's cloud top temperatures indicate strong storms with potential to generate heavy rainfall.
Researchers developed a mass-spectrometry-based approach to detect gluten proteins specific to rye, expanding detection capabilities beyond wheat and barley. The method identified six peptides that were consistently detected in all rye varieties, allowing for more accurate labeling of 'gluten-free' foods.
Researchers at UCLA have developed a nanoscale capsule that breaks through the blood-brain barrier, allowing it to reach and treat cancer that has spread to the central nervous system. In mouse studies, this capsule delivered cancer-fighting drugs effectively eliminating B-cell lymphoma tumors.
Researchers observe thousands of flashlight fish synchronizing their movement and facilitating schooling behavior in complete darkness. This study reveals a novel function for bioluminescence in the ocean, showing that fishes can school using only their natural light, without relying on ambient light.
A study analyzing NHS hospital data found Lyme disease patients in England and Wales are predominantly white and female, with peaks of new cases at certain ages. The findings may inform health promotion messages and highlight a poor understanding of recommended care pathways for symptoms related to Lyme disease.
Researchers have identified a combination of treatments that may be more powerful than current therapy alone for children with Ewing sarcoma. The new approach combines FAK inhibitors with aurora kinase B targets to kill cancer cells and inhibit tumor progression.
Researchers found links between early-life manganese exposure and altered functional connectivity of brain areas supporting cognitive and motor control. This association was observed even before birth and during early childhood.
Researchers found that males with similar personalities are more likely to form strong social bonds and cooperate in critical situations. The study suggests that personality homophily provides an evolutionary advantage by facilitating communication and coordination among friends.
A recent ASU study reveals that a positive lab environment and enjoyable everyday tasks are key factors in maintaining undergraduate researchers. The study surveyed over 750 life sciences undergraduates and found that 50% of participants considered leaving their research experience due to inadequate support.
A randomized trial of 120 hospital patients found that virtual reality (VR) sessions significantly reduced severe pain scores compared to a relaxation program on TV. Patients who used VR reported higher satisfaction with the experience and no difference in opioid prescribing.
New research suggests that the risk of developing microcephaly due to Zika virus infection depends on the types of antibodies produced by pregnant mothers. Antibodies from mothers of babies with microcephaly are more effective at neutralizing the virus, but also show enhanced ability to boost viral entry into human cells.
Research found that high inequality reduces willingness to cooperate in groups, but some inequality can help ensure everyone contributes to the public good. The study suggests policy-makers should consider the optimal level of inequality when funding public goods and services.
The American Academy of Neurology has developed guidelines for preventing and treating migraine in children and teens. The guidelines recommend a detailed history and physical examination, education about migraine triggers, healthy lifestyle habits, and evidence-based treatments such as ibuprofen and triptans.
A new study published in PLOS ONE found that a two-thirds increase in returning coho salmon to the Oregon coast would generate up to $518 million in annual non-market economic benefits. The study also found that people value conservation goals sooner rather than later, with up to $277 million in annual benefits.
The observational study found significant changes in age distribution between obesity-associated and nonobesity-associated cancer cases over the 16-year period. The analysis revealed notable sex and racial disparities, with certain populations experiencing a higher risk of developing obesity-associated cancers at younger ages.
A modified land-value tax would assess significantly higher rates on land than improvements, leading to more widespread economic equality. This structure would also incentivize development, as improving the land doesn't cost more under this type of taxation.
A new species of giant penguin, Crossvallia waiparensis, has been identified from fossils found in Waipara, North Canterbury. The discovery adds to the list of gigantic, but extinct, New Zealand fauna and reveals a close Antarctic relative.
Researchers found that societies with specialist cultures form densely connected networks, while generalist cultures result in sparser networks. Specialists have higher proficiencies due to learning from peers, but may be harmed by environmental changes.
A new study by Berkeley Lab researchers found that cool roofs could protect urbanites from heat waves, reducing air temperatures and bringing down heat wave exposures by 35 million each year. The study predicts that heat waves will become two to 10 times more frequent across California's cities by mid-century.
Researchers at Chalmers University of Technology have mapped how electronegativity and electron configuration change under pressure, enabling quick predictions about element behavior. The study reveals new possibilities for suggesting experiments to improve understanding of elements.
A recent study revealed that Neanderthals had an exceptionally high frequency of external auditory exostoses, also known as 'swimmer's ear', in their remains. This suggests that they spent a significant amount of time collecting resources in aquatic settings.
Researchers at Arizona State University have developed new methods using data science to analyze the motion of single molecules. By leveraging Bayesian nonparametrics, they can efficiently detect and refine signals, reducing acquisition times and increasing the scope of biological research.
Krishnan Rajeshwar, a prominent chemistry professor at the University of Texas at Arlington, has been recognized for his exceptional contributions to electrochemistry. He received the Electrochemical Society's 2019 Electrodeposition Research Award for his outstanding research in electrodeposition.
A three-site study in the Blue Marsh watershed found seasonal differences in microbial populations, with increases in warmer months and higher levels of nitrate and phosphate. The researchers used Biolog Ecoplates to test water samples, revealing changes in bacterial counts and chemical profiles linked to human activities.
A study published in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society found that older adults who engage in regular physical activity and mental stimulation before surgery have a lower risk of developing postoperative delirium. Participants who were physically active six to seven days a week had a 73% lower chance of experiencing deliriu...
A systematic review and meta-analysis found that refugees may be at higher risk of developing nonaffective psychosis, including several types of schizophrenia, compared to natives or nonrefugee migrants in host countries. The study analyzed data from over 540,000 refugees in Denmark, Sweden, Norway, and Canada.
Researchers have developed a soft and stretchable pump, eliminating tethers in soft robots. The pump uses an electrical field to circulate liquids, promising applications in exoskeletons, robotic clothing, and smart clothing.
Researchers found a link between microRNA regulation and the rapid evolution of new species in Nicaraguan crater lakes. They analyzed five species of Midas cichlids and identified specific pairs of microRNAs and genes that interact with each other.
Researchers have found that abnormal blood pressure in middle and late life significantly increases the likelihood of developing dementia. Maintaining a healthy blood pressure throughout life may be a key factor in reducing this risk.
A Carnegie Mellon University analysis of #MeToo media coverage finds that accusers are frequently depicted sympathetically yet lack agency, threatening the movement's empowerment objectives. The study reveals a consistent trend in which women are portrayed less powerfully than men.
A CSU team is designing a self-reliant, local, resilient electric system to withstand Category 5 hurricanes. The research combines sustainable grids, systems engineering and behavioral psychology to minimize power losses.
Sunscreens release aluminum, silica, and phosphorous into seawater after UV treatment, potentially harming marine ecosystems. On a typical summer day at the beach, beachgoers could increase coastal waters' aluminum levels by 4% and titanium by almost 20%
Researchers at Washington University in St. Louis have discovered a mechanism by which plants regulate the hormone auxin, affecting growth and development. The sticky properties of Aux/IAA repressor proteins allow them to bind to DNA-binding domains, controlling transcription.
A new Cornell University study suggests that shale oil and gas production, particularly fracking, is contributing to the increase in atmospheric methane levels. The research found that methane from fracking has a distinct carbon-13 signature, indicating its origin, which was previously misattributed to biological sources.
Researchers found that testosterone supplements made people more sensitive to moral norms, contradicting earlier studies that linked high levels of testosterone to immoral behavior. The study suggests that testosterone's influence on behavior is more complex than thought.
A clinical trial found that an oral activator, veledimex, controlled the transcription of human interleukin-12, reducing toxicity while preserving anti-tumor effects. Patients with recurrent glioblastoma had improved overall survival rates, with some experiencing up to 17.8 months of survival.
Researchers analyzed snow samples from remote areas and European cities, finding high concentrations of microplastics in Arctic snow. These tiny particles, often used in synthetic fabrics and other materials, contribute significantly to air pollution and may pose health risks, including lung cancer.
A recent study found that more than half of the 504 primate species were left out of the research literature, with only 13% focused on chimpanzees. The study highlights the need for conservation efforts to protect endangered primate species and their habitats.
Researchers created stretchable metal composites with high electric conductivity that can be 3D printed on soft substrates at room temperature. This breakthrough technology enables the production of compact and slim wearable devices with improved data recording capabilities.
Researchers led by Abhijit Ghosh are studying the unknown fault that caused a 7.1 magnitude earthquake in Ridgecrest, California. The team aims to understand the physics behind earthquakes and develop more effective warning systems.
Researchers from the University of Würzburg captured rare footage of Abbott's duiker antelopes on Mt. Kilimanjaro, a species classified as endangered. The study found that protected areas are crucial for maintaining biodiversity in large mammal species.
Astronomers can now automatically follow up on variable astronomical objects with a range of 0.4-meter to 8-meter telescopes, observing in UV light to infrared. The network uses automated software and generates dynamic observing schedules every 15 minutes.
A Michigan-wide effort to reduce opioid prescribing for common surgeries resulted in a nearly 30% decrease in prescription size, without affecting patient pain or satisfaction. The study's success suggests an opportunity for other states to build on Michigan's experience and further reductions in prescription size.
Researchers have identified markers capable of predicting mortality in patients with symptoms of yellow fever, potentially helping to prevent severe conditions. The study found that older patients, high neutrophil counts, and high viral loads at hospital admission are significantly associated with mortality.
A comprehensive dementia care program staffed by nurse practitioners significantly reduced patients' behavioral problems and depression, as well as lower the distress of caregivers. The study's findings suggest that such programs are a promising approach toward improving the psychological health of patients and caregivers.
The study found that less than 5% of schooling fish needed to be flashing to maintain the group in dark conditions. Flashing may serve as a predator-avoidance strategy, with some fish flashing then rapidly changing direction before flashing again.
A new study reveals that approximately 85% of historical tidal wetlands in California, Oregon, and Washington have been lost. The research highlights the importance of restoring these habitats, which are critical nurseries for juvenile salmon and steelhead.
A study of long-term data from the River Ray in Wiltshire found a steady increase in freshwater invertebrate diversity and abundance since 1991, attributed to improved sewage treatment. This improvement is linked to reduced ammonia levels and increased oxygen, creating a cleaner water environment.
Researchers found that antibodies generated against the Zika virus itself may contribute to birth defects in some pregnancies. The study suggests that a safe vaccine would need to induce protective antibodies while avoiding those that increase the risk of microcephaly.
A novel open-source computational framework promotes affordable and routine NIPT applications in clinics, detecting fetal trisomies and parental chromosome origin from maternal blood samples. The framework incorporates machine learning methods to estimate euploidy or trisomy for each studied chromosome.