Archaeologists have discovered a rock shelter in Ethiopia dating back over 30,000 years, providing the earliest evidence of human habitation at high altitudes. The site, Fincha Habera, shows signs of Middle Stone Age foragers living and feasting on giant mole-rats at an elevation of over 11,000 feet.
A Thai research team has created a novel approach for simultaneously detecting and detoxifying harmful phenol compounds in one step. The innovative technique leverages natural enzymatic reactions to convert toxic chemicals into luciferin, a bioluminescent compound produced by fireflies.
Researchers have developed an effective method to monitor carbon nanotube films using artificial neural networks (ANN). The technique can help predict the efficiency of single-walled carbon nanotubes synthesis and improve the overall production framework, leading to new horizons for real-life applications.
A Phase 1 clinical trial enrolls healthy adults to evaluate the safety and immune response of two licensed influenza vaccines administered with novel adjuvants. The trial aims to improve seasonal flu vaccine effectiveness, which varies from year to year.
Researchers found that cigarette smoke changes the metabolism of cells in head and neck squamous cell carcinomas, making tumors more efficient as an ecosystem to promote cancer growth. The study also identified a protein on tobacco-exposed fibroblasts that drives these metabolic changes.
Researchers at Columbia University Irving Medical Center have identified a potential new therapy for pancreatic cancer. Their experimental compound, PTC596, has shown to be effective in combination with standard treatment, extending survival by three times in genetically engineered mice.
Researchers at Trinity College Dublin discovered that claudin-5 plays a crucial role in the development of dry Age-Related Macular Degeneration. The study suggests that regulating blood vessel integrity may prevent the disease.
Purdue researchers develop waterproof, breathable, and antibacterial clothing that can power electronic devices through simple embroidery. This innovation uses omniphobic triboelectric nanogenerators to turn clothing into self-powered remotes, providing a convenient interface with machines and the Internet of Things.
Agricultural lands are the most productive places for solar power, according to an Oregon State University study. The researchers found that converting less than 1% of land to solar panels would be sufficient to fulfill global electric energy demand.
Researchers at La Jolla Institute for Immunology identified the molecular properties of antibodies that neutralize Lassa virus. By understanding these properties, they can create a map for rational vaccine design, aiming to develop effective treatments or vaccines against this deadly disease.
Supertyphoon Lekima rapidly intensifies as it tracks north-northwest over the Pacific, with winds exceeding 130 knots and a strong eye. The storm is expected to reach Eastern China near Taizhou within 48 hours, potentially weakening by 72 hours after crossing Shanghai.
Researchers have achieved a major breakthrough in developing a thermally stable TB vaccine using a technique called ensilication, which protects vaccine components from heat damage. This innovation has the potential to improve the effectiveness and accessibility of vaccines globally, particularly in remote areas.
Consecutive low snow years may become six times more common in the Western United States, leading to ecological and economic challenges. The study projects that year-to-year variability of peak snowpack will decrease, mostly in areas transitioning from snow- to rain-dominated precipitation.
Researchers compared observations with model simulations, revealing gaps in smoke plume rise and duration modeling. The study found that solar heating warmed air within the plume, causing it to self-loft to nearly 23 kilometers, but observed smoke lifetime was 40% shorter than calculated models due to photochemical loss of organic carbon.
A new analysis suggests that migration can promote cooperation among individuals by creating heterogeneous patterns in their spatial distribution. This allows populations to thrive despite the threat of exploitation, as defectors avoid cooperators or form communities with public goods.
Researchers found that stony corals Porites astreoides grow more slowly under acidic seawater conditions, indicating a limit to their adaptation to climate change. The study used natural laboratory settings off the east coast of Mexico to investigate coral growth in response to low pH and high dissolved carbon content.
Researchers have invented an affordable solution to measure tremor in mice using a smartphone, potentially leading to new treatments. The method uses a cage with rubber bands and a mounted smartphone to detect vibrations, producing comparable results to expensive equipment.
Researchers discovered physical interactions between proteins and DNA that help explain why genetic condensates cluster along super enhancers, stimulating gene transcription. The study provides a fundamentally new approach to deciphering gene control in the 'dark matter' of our genome.
A study published in the American Journal of Medicine found that one to two servings of caffeinated beverages per day were not associated with an increased risk of headaches for patients with episodic migraine. However, consuming three or more servings may be linked to a higher risk of migraines on the same day or the following day.
Researchers discovered a blood signature predicting type 1 diabetes before its onset, enabling early identification of high-risk children. The study, led by the University of Turku, could lead to disease prevention.
Researchers found that severe marine heatwaves lead to immediate coral mortality and rapid decay, not just bleaching. This phenomenon is distinct from coral bleaching and will likely become more frequent as temperatures rise.
A new study from the University of Eastern Finland shows that health-related quality of life in people with knee osteoarthritis varies significantly among different patient groups. The study found that females, those with higher body mass index, smokers, and lower-income individuals experience rapid worsening of their quality of life, ...
Researchers analyzed TP53 mutations in human leukemia, finding that most missense variants exert a 'dominant-negative' effect reducing wild-type p53's cancer-suppressing activity. The study challenges previous hypotheses suggesting new oncogenic functions from these mutations.
The study found a significant decline in global freshwater megafauna populations, with large fish species like sturgeons and salmonids facing the highest threats. Conservation efforts have shown some success, but monitoring and protection remain inadequate for many species.
A new study suggests that nitazoxanide, an FDA-approved anti-parasitic drug, could potentially treat Ebola by enhancing the immune system's ability to detect the virus. The drug inhibited Ebola replication and worked by broadly amplifying the interferon pathway and cellular viral sensors.
The MIT Press has released a comprehensive report on open-source publishing software, cataloging 52 platforms that meet survey criteria. The report warns that open publishing faces dual challenges, including siloed development and community organization, which must be addressed for sustainable success.
Researchers have identified a previously unknown family of small-molecule metabolites responsible for the bright green color in sharks' skin, which may also aid in identifying other sharks and fighting microbial infections. The discovery opens new questions about the potential functions of biofluorescence in shark biology.
A Belgian team developed a two-in-one contrast agent for medical imaging, combining MRI and photoacoustic imaging techniques. The bimodal probe enhances sensitivity while minimizing risks for patients.
Typhoon Krosa is quasi-stationary and intensifying due to favorable conditions like low wind shear and warm sea surface temperatures. The storm will continue to track northeastward before weakening over the next five days, maintaining typhoon strength.
A new study found that fungi have a harder time growing in cattail roots underwater, suggesting that plants may not have relied on fungal helpers to get onto land. The research provides a new tool for understanding prehistoric ecosystems and challenges previous narratives about plant-fungal interactions.
A recent study published by Mount Sinai researchers found that fluoride exposure may contribute to complex changes in kidney and liver function among youth in the US. The findings suggest that adolescents with poorer kidney or liver function may absorb more fluoride, highlighting potential health concerns.
A recent study found that nearly half of university and two-year college students in the US experience food insecurity, leading to academic struggles, mental health issues, and reduced career opportunities. Food insecure students often turn to unhealthy coping mechanisms or go without meals, exacerbating the problem.
Goliath frogs create three types of ponds to safeguard their eggs and tadpoles from predators. Researchers observed the frogs' laborious pond-building efforts, which may explain why they evolved to be giant.
Researchers at Boston Children's Hospital are developing an opioid vaccine to protect people with opioid use disorder against accidental fentanyl overdoses. The two-year project aims to enroll patients and test responses to candidate vaccines, with the goal of eventually testing the vaccine in humans.
Long-term survivors of pancreatic cancer have a diverse tumor microbiome, which boosts their immune attack on tumors. Fecal transplant treatments can alter the tumor microbiome, suggesting a potential therapeutic opportunity for improving pancreatic cancer treatment.
A new study in Science shows that alternative farming practices can boost farmers' profits while reducing air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. The Happy Seeder system, which allows for direct seeding of wheat into unplowed soil and shredded rice residues, is a promising solution.
Researchers successfully recorded sequences of up to 1,000 sharp images of live mitochondria at 1.5 frames per second using STED microscopy. By exploiting the probabilistic nature of photobleaching, scientists can distinguish between different regions of the cell and achieve unprecedented resolution.
Researchers found that adding MS drug teriflunomide to targeted cancer therapy significantly shrinks glioblastoma tumors and improves mouse survival. The treatment targets cancer stem cells, which are responsible for tumor recurrence.
A new study published in The Journal of Physiology found that an eye-movement test can detect acute sleep loss with high reliability. The researchers used a range of eye-movement measures to distinguish sleep-related impairment from that caused by alcohol or brain injury.
A simple, electricity-independent device has been proven effective in reducing child diarrhea rates by up to 23% in developing countries. The Aquatabs Flo technology uses precise chlorine dosing to purify water without compromising taste, offering a promising solution to control the second-leading cause of death for children globally.
A University of Arizona research team discovered complex biochemical circuits in cells that follow control theory principles, controlling growth in response to nutrient availability. The study found that the TOR and PKA pathways work together like a thermostat, with one pathway speeding up response and the other maintaining stability.
Researchers discovered that long-lived fungi accumulate surprisingly few mutations over time, indicating a well-developed protection mechanism. The study uses fairy rings of Marasmius oreades to examine the speed and pattern of mutations, providing new insights into cell processes and longevity.
Warner's project will expand her research on multigenerational planning in rural areas by adding public health as a key topic of concern for planners and regional scientists. The team aims to create an econometric model for livability that promotes economic development and public health across rural and urban communities.
A new University of Washington study finds that firearm retailers are willing to learn about suicide prevention and train their employees to spot warning signs. However, a lack of awareness and reluctance to discuss personal issues inhibit greater progress in suicide prevention.
A study found that chaperone protein Hsp70 inhibits toxic protein aggregates in the androgen receptor, which causes Kennedy's disease and prostate cancer. Hsp70 may be useful as a therapeutic target to treat these conditions.
A new research study suggests that redesigning the contract for the Medicare Shared Savings Program could lead to significant cost savings. The proposed changes aim to align provider incentives with performance-based subsidies, increasing reimbursement payments and improving healthcare outcomes.
A new study in The American Journal of Medicine found that drinking three or more caffeinated beverages a day increases the odds of triggering a migraine headache on the same or next day. However, consuming one to two servings per day did not appear to be linked to developing a migraine headache.
Researchers at Tel Aviv University and the Technion Institute of Technology discovered critical vulnerabilities in the Siemens S7 Simatic programmable logic controller. They successfully reverse-engineered the proprietary cryptographic protocol and gained control of the PLC's operations, demonstrating how a sophisticated attacker can a...
Researchers develop innovative technology to transform proteins and antibodies into stable drug transporters, reducing side effects and increasing effectiveness in targeted cancer treatment. The new method allows for lower doses and fewer severe side effects compared to existing antibody-drug conjugates.
A team of scientists analyzed microbial communities within sclerotia of soilborne fungal pathogens, discovering specific bacterial communities that produce volatile compounds with the potential to reduce pathogen viability. Combining different beneficial microorganisms can effectively counteract pathogens.
FutureNeuro researchers integrated genomics data into the Irish National Epilepsy Electronic Patient Record system, enabling personalized treatment plans for individuals with unknown cause epilepsy. The new system facilitates multidisciplinary meetings and review of genomic test results to determine genetic causes, leading to better di...
ApoE promotes hepatitis B virus infection and production, but targeting it with inhibitors may serve as an antiviral strategy for chronic HBV infection. Research found that apoE is enriched on the virus envelope and its expression impairs HBV production.
A combination of local emissions, transport from outside the region, and terrain-driven circulation contribute to high aerosol loading over the eastern slope of the Tibetan Plateau. The study highlights the need for understanding aerosol transport processes and physical mechanisms to mitigate environmental risks.
A study at Harvard Medical School's Blavatnik Institute has identified molecular aberrations causing heightened touch sensitivity in autism and points to a possible treatment. The research, conducted in mice, shows that an experimental compound mitigated abnormal touch sensitivity while improving body mass and alleviating anxiety.
Researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital found that the timing of HD onset is determined by a property of the expanded CAG repeat in an individual's DNA, not its length. The study also identified multiple genes involved in DNA maintenance and repair as modifiers of HD onset, offering potential targets for treatments.
Researchers at Duke University discovered that gall midge larvae use a hydrostatic legless jumping mechanism, which allows them to launch themselves through the air with incredible speed and efficiency. This remarkable behavior is made possible by sticky patches of skin on the larva's body, similar to those found on geckos' feet.
Scientists used a state-of-the-art climate model to study the lofting and movement of the colossal Canadian wildfire smoke cloud, which contained only about 0.3 million tons of soot. The modeling validated previous theories on nuclear war impacts and provided new insights into potential global climate effects.
Scientists have found that severe marine heatwaves can lead to the death of coral animals themselves, causing the underlying skeleton to decay rapidly. This new understanding highlights the need for urgent action to preserve coral reefs and mitigate the impacts of climate change.
Researchers identified thousands of host mRNAs targeted by gammaherpesvirus microRNAs, revealing significant conservation of miRNA targeting among viruses. The study provides new insights into the function of gammaherpesvirus miRNAs and their role in establishing lifelong infections.
The team discovered a new strategy to design highly efficient perovskite-based LEDs by leveraging the quantum confinement effect, which allows for superior mobility of electrons and holes. This results in attractive light-emission properties, enabling record-setting performance in terms of brightness and power efficiency.