Researchers sequenced genomes of figs and pollinators to uncover dynamic karyotype variation associated with adaptive evolution. They also identified candidate genes for sex determination and a potential molecular mechanism of coevolution between fig species and their wasp pollinators.
Researchers at Michigan Technological University have developed tiny surfing robots that can manipulate surface tension to propel themselves through water. This breakthrough could lead to new biomedical applications, such as surgery, by understanding the colonization of bacteria in the body.
Researchers discovered a mechanism where histone variant H3.3 is replenished to silence transposons in pluripotent stem cells, potentially linked to cancer tumorigenesis
Researchers found the upper limit for the speed of sound to be around 36 km per second, which is faster than previously thought. This discovery has implications for various scientific fields, including materials science and condensed matter physics.
The American Medical Association joins forces with the African American Tobacco Control Leadership Council in urging a ban on menthol-flavored tobacco products. Research shows that menthol cigarette smoking persists among vulnerable populations, despite declining overall cigarette consumption. Experts argue that banning menthol cigaret...
A new study predicts that investing $9.6 billion in personal protective equipment (PPE) for health care workers in low- and middle-income countries could save the lives of approximately 2.2 million healthcare workers and yield a substantial economic return of $755.3 billion, representing an 8,000% return on investment.
Fossils found in southeastern Yunan Province, China, reveal monkeys existed in Asia alongside apes, and are believed to be ancestors of modern East Asian monkeys. These ancient primates were well adapted for movement both on land and in trees, with a versatile diet that allowed them to thrive in diverse environments.
Researchers at NYU Abu Dhabi have discovered a new immune evasion strategy used by the Plasmodium parasite, which could help develop novel therapeutic strategies and vaccines for malaria. The study found that microRNAs play a crucial role in regulating genes involved in the immune response.
A new study reveals how climate change impacts the fishery of Lake Tanganyika, a major African fishery, and its potential effects on food security for millions of people in eastern Africa. High frequency variability in climate can lead to disruptions in the lake's food web.
A team of international scientists has proposed eight recommendations for the sustainable use of non-native tree species, aiming to maximize benefits while minimizing negative impacts on biodiversity. The guidelines include using native trees, being aware of invasion risks, and developing global networks for information sharing.
A study found that over 21% of young adults (18-34) hospitalized with COVID-19 required intensive care, while 10% needed mechanical ventilation and 2.7% died. Young people with cardiovascular risk factors faced higher risks for adverse outcomes.
Scientists have developed a world-first method to detect 'novel' communities of species, which are associated with increased extinction rates. Novel ecological communities are characterized by unique combinations of species that differ from past observations at the same site.
A study published in Frontiers in Neuroscience found that musically trained children outperform their non-trained peers in attention and working memory tasks. The research suggests two underlying mechanisms: domain-specific auditory encoding and domain-general attention control.
Researchers at Berkeley Lab have developed a precision photon source made from an atomically thin semiconducting material, enabling the generation of single, identical photons. This breakthrough could aid in developing secure and fast quantum communication networks.
Justin Zhan, a data science professor at the University of Arkansas, has received a $1.25 million grant to develop novel algorithms for enhancing computational speed and efficiency in applications requiring massive amounts of streaming data. His research aims to improve operational robustness, computational speed, and efficiency in too...
Sustainable space management is at risk under US-centric policies that prioritize national regulation over international cooperation. The Artemis Accords could lead to a 'race to the bottom' in space mining regulations, threatening lunar stability and increasing asteroid mining risks.
Researchers at UNSW Sydney demonstrated the lowest recorded charge noise for a semiconductor qubit, reducing it by 10 times compared to previous results. The team's achievement shows promise for large-scale error-corrected quantum computers and moves closer to commercializing silicon quantum computers.
The University of California Pavement Research Center (UCPRC) will continue its work with Caltrans for another three years. The center focuses on innovative research and engineering principles to improve pavement sustainability.
Nagoya University scientists have developed a laboratory technique to rapidly select synthetic proteins that strongly bind to SARS-CoV-2. The approach, called TRAP display, could be used to develop sensitive antigen tests and neutralization antibodies for infected patients.
A recent study reveals that nitrous oxide emissions are increasing at an alarming rate, with growing emissions in emerging economies driven by agricultural activity. The researchers predict that N2O emissions will continue to grow unless sustainable practices are adopted, such as best management practices for farming.
Researchers created a synthetic tubular scaffold from biodegradable polylactic acid, which forms an artificial vessel in its place. The scaffold showed high patency rates and was proven to be non-toxic.
A study published in The Lancet Respiratory Medicine found that rapid bedside testing for COVID-19 can reduce time to results by up to 80 hours and improve infection control. The test, known as QIAstat-Dx POCT, allows patients to be quickly isolated and treatment to be started immediately.
Researchers developed SeSBAT, a computer program that analyzes magnetic resonance images to detect early signs of neurodegenerative diseases. The tool identifies biomarkers before symptoms appear, allowing for individualized monitoring and more accurate management.
A study by chronobiologists from the University of Groningen found that Olympic swimmers performed best in the finals due to their biological clock. The researchers analyzed times from four Olympic Games and found a significant sinusoid performance pattern over the course of a day, with peak performance occurring late afternoon.
The University of Minnesota Medical School has been selected as one of four Capacity Building Centers in the US, receiving a $6.7 million grant to support its part in the Serological Sciences Network (SeroNet). The network aims to examine the immune response to COVID-19 and speed up testing, treatment, and vaccine development.
A new computational model suggests that certain protective mutations against malaria have not become widespread due to rapid immune system adaptation, making it less likely for these mutations to spread among the population. The study highlights the need for further genetic studies of populations living in regions impacted by malaria.
The OSIRIS-REx mission has mapped the gravity field of asteroid Bennu, revealing a weaker and less dense core than previously thought. This could put the asteroid's survival at risk in the near future as it may slowly spin itself apart.
Researchers developed a novel grid to minimize sample movement in single-particle cryo-EM, resulting in higher image quality and increased data throughput. The new support film, dubbed 'hexAuFoil,' reduces particle displacement and enables the collection of clearer protein structures.
The NIH-funded Center for Precision Animal Modeling (C-PAM) at UAB enables precise diagnoses and treatments by creating patient-specific disease models. C-PAM's cutting-edge capabilities will help predict possible treatments that can be tested in the models, aiding in the search for unique therapies.
A new study suggests that truthful candidates are less likely to make it through to elected office. The research highlights how candidates who progress in politics are those most prepared to renge on electoral promises.
A study found that men are less empathetic towards temporary agricultural laborers and less concerned about food supply and production as national security issues. However, during the COVID-19 pandemic, attitudes shifted towards increased empathy and concern for food security.
The M2D2 $200K Challenge recognizes promising ventures developing groundbreaking medical devices and biotechnology innovations to improve healthcare outcomes. The competition provides funding, in-kind support, and expert resources to accelerate their progress.
A new computer algorithm improves the quality of 3D molecular structure maps generated with cryo-electron microscopy, enabling researchers to determine atomic-level structural models. The algorithm enhances map resolution and visibility, particularly for complex biological molecules.
Researchers have verified the closest cousins of a semi-aquatic mouse thought to be extinct, including two new species discovered through DNA analysis and physical trait comparisons. The findings reveal that these mice are long-legged, use their whiskers to hunt aquatic insects, and have unusually large brains.
Researchers at Radboud University Medical Center have redefined bone formation, finding that it does not require complex biomolecules in collagen. This breakthrough simplifies the production of bone substitutes and biomaterials.
A new survey by West Health-Gallup finds that 52% of Americans trust Joe Biden to lead the US healthcare system, while 39% trust Donald Trump. Managing the pandemic and reducing healthcare costs are equally important to Americans in determining their vote for president.
Scientists at the University of Tokyo developed a method for creating stress-free gels with less internal mechanical stress by delaying network formation. This breakthrough may help understand biological processes involving cytoplasm and improve industrial processes that create semisolid products, such as foodstuffs.
Researchers at Mount Sinai will lead capacity-building efforts for serological testing and analyze antibody responses in lung cancer patients. They will also examine the immune response to COVID-19 and its impact on vaccine development.
Researchers from Kyoto University and Tokai University have developed a new apparatus to study terahertz radiation's effects on human stem cells. The findings reveal that terahertz pulses activate genes involved in motor neuron survival and mitochondrial function, while deactivating those involved in cell differentiation.
A recent study has found that potential COVID-19 vaccines are not affected by the dominant 'G-strain' of the virus. The G-strain now accounts for about 85 per cent of published SARS-CoV-2 genomes, but vaccine candidates targeting the spike protein remain effective. This discovery is good news for the hundreds of vaccines in development...
A research team led by the University of Bonn has reconstructed four newly found beetle species using computer tomography, providing insights into their morphology and evolutionary history. The study suggests that beetles suffered a decrease in diversity during the Cretaceous period as plants transitioned from gymnosperms to angiosperms.
A study by Tampere University and the University of Oxford has identified a principle that explains how prostate cancer spreads, with implications for liquid biopsy. Researchers discovered that not all subclones spread to the entire body, and some may be confined to the prostate.
A new digital dashboard, NAVIFY Tumor Board, has been shown to significantly reduce the time spent preparing for cancer treatment cases by 30%, while also improving access to relevant clinical data. The study found that this improvement was sustained over time and resulted in reduced administrative burdens for healthcare professionals.
A case series examined SARS-CoV-2 presence in ocular tissues of a patient with previous COVID-19. The study found the virus in ocular tissues, highlighting its potential role in long-term complications.
Scientists have successfully measured the iron lines in the solar spectrum using a laser frequency comb and HARPS instrument, verifying one of Einstein's predictions - the gravitational redshift effect. This confirms that General Relativity theory is correct and has significant implications for satellite navigation systems like GPS.
Researchers identified a protein, factor D, that enables the virus to turn the immune system against healthy cells. Inhibiting this protein can curtail inflammatory reactions and prevent cell destruction.
A new study found that including Arctic radiosonde data reduces uncertainty in forecasting hurricanes' tracks, particularly when upper-level troughs affect their movements. This improvement can lead to better preparation and mitigation of human casualties and socioeconomic losses caused by these storms.
Researchers have discovered a combination of MEK and SHP2 inhibitors effective in targeting the mechanism driving cancer growth in malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumours. The treatment has shown promise in both cell culture and mouse models, offering hope for improved treatment outcomes for patients.
The American College of Cardiology has announced the Hani Najm Global Scholar Awards, allowing two early career cardiologists to train in the US for four weeks. The awards are part of the ACC's Campaign for the Future, aiming to reduce the burden of cardiovascular disease worldwide.
Researchers recreated HIV infection steps in a test tube, identifying essential components for replication. The study provides an unprecedented view of the virus and its role in infection, shedding light on potential targets for improved treatments.
Research reveals black holes emit complex signals when observed from their equator, indicating a unique relation between gravitational waves and black hole behavior. The team discovered that the final black hole's cusp emits more intense gravitational waves, producing multiple 'chirps' as it settles to its final form.
Researchers from Japan's Institute for Molecular Science have described a bacterial cellulose degradation system in detail, revealing its similarities and differences with the fungal system. The study found that the bacterial system exhibits higher processivity, enabling faster cellulose degradation.
A study suggests that reducing indirect greenhouse gas emissions from UC campus food systems can be achieved through a shift towards more plant-based options. The researchers found that changing the food system could reduce emissions by 42-55% and align with the system's carbon neutrality goals.
A new study found that protective antibodies against COVID-19 persist for four months in survivors of serious infections, making them a valuable tool for tracking the spread of the virus in communities. The study also identified key antibody responses to COVID-19 that are relatively short-lived, declining within two and a half months.
A new report by Lancaster University finds that the UK's early years sector lacks a radical new strategy to gender-diversify its workforce, with only 14% of settings using positive action strategies to recruit men. The study recommends reaching out to fathers and promoting male involvement to improve recruitment and retention.
A recent study found that regular exposure to marijuana advertising on storefronts and billboards increased the likelihood of adolescents using marijuana. Location of retail stores also played a role, with participants who lived close to shops being more likely to report intentions to use the drug.
Researchers have found a new magnetar with a pulsation period of 1.36 seconds, showing spin-down behavior suggesting rotation-powered pulsar emissions. The discovery reveals a missing link between magnetars and rotation-powered pulsars, providing new insights into neutron stars with high magnetic fields.
Researchers at Heidelberg University have discovered a new class of highly effective inhibitors that protect nerve cells from degeneration. The novel inhibitors target the interaction between NMDA receptors and TRPM4 proteins, which leads to cell death in neurodegenerative diseases.
Researchers found that WUSCHEL proteins inhibit viral protein production, preventing replication and keeping plants virus-free. The discovery could lead to breeding broad-spectrum antiviral crop varieties in the future.
Scientists at UAT University in Mexico discovered a new species of Darwin wasp, Stethantyx covida, during the 2020 global quarantine period. The species belongs to the Ichneumonidae family and measures 3.5mm in length.