Researchers achieved nearly double the previous record of 4.25 GeV by accelerating electrons to 7.8 GeV using a novel technique that combines laser heating and plasma channeling. The breakthrough enables more compact and affordable particle acceleration for high-energy machines.
A study by KU Leuven reveals that red giants lose less mass than previously thought, as their stellar winds are affected by an overlooked partner star. This discovery challenges the long-held assumption of high mass loss rates for these stars.
Researchers found that blue whales' migration patterns are driven by the timing of spring phytoplankton blooms and their ability to remember stable foraging sites. This allows them to optimize food tracking and forage in areas with higher long-term productivity.
Researchers have obtained the highest-resolution structure of the fungal protein Hsp104, a hexameric AAA+ protein that helps repair misfolded proteins. The study's findings reveal a helical structure for Hsp104 hexamers, contrary to previous beliefs, and provide new insights into its function.
A recent reanalysis of a Neandertal individual's vertebrae and pelvis suggests that their spinal curvatures were within the range of normal modern human posture, except for disease-related effects. The findings challenge previous interpretations of Neandertal anatomy as functionally different from those of modern humans.
Researchers at Penn State have identified a unique elastomeric protein called resilin in the pygidial glands of carabid beetles that protects them from their own toxic chemicals. This discovery has significant implications for the development of new barrier materials and tissue engineering applications.
A recent study found that most middle-aged and older adults recover their ability to live independently within a year after surgery for hip fracture. Age, fitness level, and certain fracture characteristics are strong predictors of returning to independent living and walking one year after hip fracture surgery.
Scientists at Kobe University found a unique protein in Striga hermonthica that enables it to steal water and nutrients from its hosts. The team identified the ShPP2C1 gene, which blocks ABA signaling and allows high transpiration rates, leading to new potential control methods for this devastating parasitic weed.
A Bristol undergraduate student has digitally reconstructed the skulls of two species of ancient reptiles from fossil fragments, revealing significant differences in their appearance and feeding habits. The research provides new insights into the evolution of these prehistoric creatures.
Researchers found that Human Cytomegalovirus (HCMV) has a lower mutation rate than previously believed, contradicting theories of high genetic diversity. This discovery could pave the way for the development of an effective HCMV vaccine.
A small Ohio State University study found a disconnect between Mexican immigrants' positive accounts of living in the US and their physical signs of stress, such as high blood pressure and obesity. The researchers believe these migrants use positive narratives to cope with discrimination and stress.
According to a study of expert assessments, the current cost of proton exchange membrane fuel cells is unlikely to meet US Department of Energy targets by 2020. Experts identify catalytic metals as a significant barrier to cost reduction, highlighting the need for research and development in catalysts and electrodes.
Researchers identified 727 genes in fat tissue that express their own circadian rhythm, many carrying out key metabolic functions. Morning-peaking transcripts regulate gene expression and nucleic acid biology, while evening-peaking transcripts are associated with redox activity and organic acid metabolism.
A new genetic tool has been developed by MIT researchers, allowing for easier engineering of plants that can survive drought or resist fungal infections. The technique uses nanoparticles to deliver genes into the chloroplasts of plant cells, which have the potential to revolutionize plant biology and agriculture.
Researchers at Oregon State University are studying the burning behavior of live fuels to better predict wildfire spread. The team aims to identify key factors driving differences in burning behavior, enabling more accurate fire models for Department of Defense managers.
A new study led by Brenda Andrews and Charles Boone uncovers the role of genetic background in shaping trait inheritance. By analyzing yeast strains, they identified modifier genes that affect gene function and predict biological outcomes from genome sequence alone.
Researchers have identified a novel messenger protein that rapidly alarms neighboring cells, enabling a swift response against bacterial and viral infections. This discovery holds promise for understanding and treating infectious diseases, including autoimmune conditions such as Lupus.
The proportion of early-stage drug trials tackling rare cancer types has increased sharply, with the analysis highlighting a changing treatment landscape. New molecularly-targeted anticancer drugs and immunotherapy are being evaluated for less common tumour types.
Researchers have discovered that Lake Pebas, a massive wetland in western Amazonia, existed until 8.5 million years ago, contrary to previous assumptions. The lake's presence was confirmed through geochronology of mineral zircon specimens from two paleontological sites, providing new insights into the region's geological history.
A University of Michigan study found that stressed Kalahari meerkat mothers alter the growth and behavior of their daughters, leading them to redirect energy towards helping future offspring, thereby benefiting their mothers. This phenomenon highlights a unique example of maternal effects on offspring in nonhuman animals.
The Annual FIT home stool test is effective for colon cancer screening in asymptomatic adults, with moderate to high sensitivity and specificity. Adopting this non-invasive test could improve lagging CRC screening rates, especially among vulnerable populations.
A new periodic table of droplets has been created to classify their motion, with potential applications in crime-scene forensics. The table can help analyze blood spatter patterns and identify the energies involved, aiding in the inference of what caused certain spatters.
Researchers discovered that snakes behave like light waves when colliding with obstacles, altering their trajectories through passive mechanisms. The study reveals insights into how limbless animals control their bodies in complex environments.
Researchers from the University of Alabama at Birmingham found that spending 20 minutes in an urban park can boost happiness and reduce mental fatigue. The study suggests that time spent in a park is more important than physical activity for emotional well-being.
A new study by the University of Texas at Austin found that medication abortion use increased to 33% after the FDA label change, despite ongoing restrictions. The study reveals that Texas providers can now offer medication abortion consistent with medical evidence, increasing options for women.
A neuroimaging study found that real-time eye contact between individuals simultaneously activates the same areas of each person's brain. This suggests that eye contact prepares the social brain for sharing mental states with others, enhancing connectivity within the limbic mirror system.
Researchers have discovered a binary interaction between stars, leading to slower mass loss rates. This changes our understanding of how stars end their lives and the chemical evolution of galaxies.
The completed genome of the Antarctic blackfin icefish reveals genes that have adapted or disappeared as the fish acclimated to rising oxygen concentrations. The study provides insights into how these traits arose and may help understand human disease mechanisms and potential new therapies.
Researchers from the University of Zurich have virtually reconstructed a Neanderthal skeleton and found that they walked upright with a curved lumbar region and neck, similar to modern humans. This challenges previous reconstructions that depicted Neanderthals as having poor posture.
A new model developed by University at Buffalo engineers emphasizes an additional factor: the losses associated with human fatalities and injuries. This tweak throws the current system off-track, suggesting that some states receive an outsized share of fire protection money, while others are shortchanged.
Researchers at Binghamton University discovered how a Gram-negative bacterium delivers toxins that make us sick. The study found that the communication molecule inserts itself into the membrane to physically stimulate vesicle production, which contains highly concentrated toxins.
A new analysis published in The Lancet finds that all forms of Brexit will negatively impact the NHS, but a No-Deal Brexit presents the worst scenario. The Withdrawal Agreement offers a more positive scenario compared to a No-Deal Brexit, but concerns remain about its negative impact on the NHS beyond the transition period.
A new study reveals that peatlands have been a significant carbon sink over the past 130,000 years, storing carbon in their deposits and potentially slowing down climate change. The research, published in PNAS, fills a key knowledge gap about the global extent of peatlands and their role in the carbon cycle.
The study found that Britain's native mammalian carnivores have largely recovered since the 1960s, with otters, badgers, and pine martens showing significant improvements. The species' recovery is attributed to legal protection, conservation, and restoration of habitats.
Researchers analyzed over 2 billion US Twitter posts to understand public perception of climate change. They found that people tend to forget what they consider 'normal' weather within 2-8 years, leading to a disconnect between historical climate records and personal opinions.
Researchers developed a microfluidic device that can isolate individual cancer cells from patient blood samples using size separation. The device has high efficiency and reliability, with recovery rates of up to 93% for small-cell-lung cancer cells.
Researchers confirm existence of 'quantum critical point' at high temperatures, believed to be the moment when superconductivity occurs. The discovery is a significant step towards understanding and creating room-temperature superconductors.
A recent study published in PNAS revealed that raindrop impact can transport rust spores using tornado-like air vortices, enabling long-distance pathogen spread. This discovery has significant implications for preventing disease spread in wheat crops and may inform new strategies for managing disease.
A new study finds that Parkinson's disease patients treated with Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) do not exhibit increased impulsive decision-making when faced with immediate or delayed rewards. The research challenges existing notions about the technique's impact on behavior and cognitive processes.
New research reveals that laptops and desktops are susceptible to hacking through common plug-in devices like chargers and docking stations. Attackers can compromise an unattended machine in seconds, taking complete control of the target computer.
Researchers at La Trobe University and CSIRO found that early sowing of winter wheats can increase Australian wheat crop yields and global food security. The approach could add $1.8 billion to the national economy, with potential yield increases of 20%.
Researchers at the University of Kansas have developed a 'lab-on-a-chip' that can detect cancer in a minuscule amount of plasma, leading to timelier interventions and better outcomes for patients. The device uses a 3D nanoengineering method to mix and sense biological elements more efficiently, enabling faster and cheaper detection.
A new sequencing method, TET-assisted pyridine borane sequencing (TAPS), detects chemical modifications to DNA that contribute to cancer progression and resistance to therapy. The method is less damaging and more efficient than bisulfite sequencing, enabling the detection of mutations and structural variations.
Researchers found that new mothers and fathers experience decreased sleep duration and satisfaction for up to six years after giving birth. Mothers tend to experience more severe sleep disruption than fathers due to their increased caregiving responsibilities.
Researchers found a link between genetic similarity and parenting in shaping virtuous character traits, including responsibility and conscientiousness. The study used data from 720 pairs of siblings to analyze the relationship between genetics and environment.
Jacob Job will track migratory songbirds across six ecosystems, interviewing people who share the land with birds to explore conservation efforts. The project aims to reintroduce people to nature while highlighting human activities causing climate change.
Carla Ng will use her NSF CAREER award to study the health and environmental impact of per- and polyfluorinated alkyl substances. She aims to identify ways to eliminate them from the environment and design selective sorbents for efficient removal.
A survey of 91 different multivitamins and vitamin D supplements for children in the UK found that many do not provide the recommended daily dose of 400 IU of vitamin D. Only one multivitamin was suitable for use from birth, while between a quarter and a third of available products supplied at least 400 IU/day for children over 6 months.
A study by RAND Corporation found that younger Americans are more likely to be arrested than previous generations, linked to lower marriage rates and earnings. Arrests during youth are associated with negative trends later in life, including lower chances of being married and less economic success.
Researchers found that cognitive behavioral therapy and the drug sertraline effectively reduce depression among people undergoing maintenance hemodialysis. The study, published in Annals of Internal Medicine, suggests that physicians should select the treatment available to patients, considering each comes with its own burdens.
Researchers identified a gene called UCP-1 that may predict the development of pancreatic cancer in people with Type 2 diabetes. The study found three distinct metabolic phases prior to diagnosis, characterized by rising blood glucose levels and changes in body fat.
Researchers at UCLA have developed a method to screen hundreds of drugs in patients' own cells, creating miniature tumor organoids. This approach can help identify effective treatments for rare and hard-to-treat cancers, and could guide treatment decisions.
A randomized clinical trial among over 1,300 students found that offering breakfast in the classroom increased the proportion of students with obesity. However, this effect did not translate to a combined measure of overweight and obesity after 2 ½ years.
The Proteomic Skin Atlas maps human skin molecules and functions, shedding light on skin diseases like psoriasis and eczema. Researchers hope to accelerate research and develop new treatments for the 3,000 known skin diseases.
Researchers at UC Berkeley have developed a new technique that uses carbon nanotubes to deliver genes into plant cells, allowing for non-GMO modifications. The method is highly successful and can be used for gene editing with CRISPR-Cas9, enabling the creation of disease- or drought-resistant crops.
Researchers at NIST have developed a new imaging technique that can observe the effects of strain at the single-molecule level, allowing for better design of composite materials. The technique uses super-resolution optical microscopy to track the alignment of molecules in response to applied force.
A new study suggests climate change played a role in the decline of Cahokia, a prehistoric city near St. Louis. Researchers analyzed fecal records and lake sediment cores to find correlations between population size and environmental conditions.
A new study by Indiana University School of Medicine and the Regenstrief Institute found that an annual noninvasive stool test is effective for colon cancer screening in average-risk adults. The test, known as FIT, identified hidden blood in stool and had high detection rates for colorectal cancer.
Researchers at Harvard University have developed a novel brain implant that mimics the appearance, size, and flexibility of real neurons, allowing for stable monitoring of neural signals and potential treatment of neurological disorders. The implants inspire negligible immune response and may even encourage tissue regeneration.
Researchers at Lund University have identified 32 key variables that are prioritized by all three groups: researchers, policymakers, and farmers. These variables focus on drivers related to policies, farm management choices, and environmental outcomes. The study highlights the need for alignment between research, policy, and practice t...