A recent study by the University of York suggests that Ofsted ratings have a negligible impact on students' educational achievement and wellbeing. Only one tenth of the difference in grades can be attributed to school quality, highlighting the limited effectiveness of these ratings as guides for parents and students.
A study by Carnegie Mellon University found that blocking multiple channels of access to pirated content is crucial for effective anti-piracy policies. Blocking a single site in 2012 led to increased piracy, while blocking 19 sites in 2013 and 53 sites in 2014 resulted in decreased piracy and increased use of legal subscription sites.
A study by Curtin University found that tiger snakes living in Perth's urban wetlands are accumulating toxic heavy metals in their livers, suggesting habitat contamination. The snakes' bioaccumulation of heavy metals through eating frogs indicates the wetlands' pollution levels are a concern for local biodiversity.
A study by University of South Australia researcher Dr Emily Reeve found that one in six medications prescribed to older people cause more harm than good. The research aims to address the issue of polypharmacy, which is on the rise globally and has serious health consequences.
A UT Southwestern study found that teenagers with vaping-linked respiratory disease EVALI also experienced gastrointestinal symptoms and a history of psychosocial factors, including substance abuse. Treatment with glucocorticoid led to improvement in symptoms and lung function.
Researchers developed a novel unbiased strategy to identify activated neural inputs underlying specific behaviors. Using mouse models, they demonstrated the input specificity of their approach, tracing activated cell ensembles.
Researchers found that a newer flu treatment, baloxavir, can dramatically reduce the contagious period of infected patients, preventing millions of infections and saving thousands of lives. Early treatment with this drug could be crucial in controlling the spread of COVID-19.
Researchers isolated single BNNTs using a fluorescent rhodamine surfactant, allowing them to track their movement and confirm Brownian motion matches predictions. This study helps understand particle behavior in liquids and could lead to the development of novel composite materials and biomedical applications.
A global survey of 902 spine surgeons revealed that 75% of surgical cases were canceled weekly due to COVID-19. The majority reported elevated anxiety and uncertainty about managing patients with the virus.
A new study found that lower body fat percentage is associated with higher levels of N-acetyl aspartic acid in white matter, a marker of neuronal health. Fitter adults show improved structural brain connectivity.
Climate change may lead to a decrease in areas suitable for most Invasive Weed Species globally, but not in highly productive agricultural regions like Europe, US and Australia. Existing eradication efforts are inadequate to counter the growing threat of invasive weeds.
Scientists at Peking University found that the contact characteristics of 1T'/2H-MoTe2 phase boundary depend on the tilt angles between metallic and semiconducting phases. The researchers discovered that a 0° tilted phase boundary has stronger atomic bonds and better contact performance.
An international team recommends integrating biological variability into experimental design to produce more generally valid results. This approach, called systematic heterogenisation, aims to reduce the number of experiments needed while increasing their reproducibility.
Researchers at UCalgary have made a breakthrough discovery that could lead to the development of treatments for Fragile X syndrome, a genetic cause of Autism Spectrum Disorder. By replacing the missing FMRP protein in the brain, scientists hope to reduce hyperactivity and improve cognitive function.
A study published in the Journal of Mammalogy found that Wyoming pronghorn exhibit high levels of genetic connectivity across the state, contradicting previous research suggesting barriers to gene flow. The researchers suggest periodic monitoring of genetic structure and diversity as part of management strategies.
A small study investigates the effect of sample inactivation on SARS-CoV-2 detection and finds that viral inactivation may contribute to false negatives. The researchers tested several inactivation methodologies, including TRIzol, which showed the least effect on RNA copy number, making it recommended for sample inactivation.
A new study finds that bacteria fed by algae biochemicals can harm coral health, leading to a shift in reef ecosystems dominated by turf and fleshy algae. The research reveals the role of microbiomes in coral-algae interactions, offering opportunities for probiotic engineering to improve coral resilience.
A new project aims to drive evidence-based propositions for creating an environment where Third Agers (older individuals easing off full-time employment) can contribute to society. The study explores building social capital beyond economics and reimagining traditional family structures to provide support.
Researchers found that haptic feedback causes distraction, but this loss of focus lasts only for about one second. They recommend that smart devices should have dynamically scheduled notifications where multiple alerts are separated by at least one second.
Scientists used ancient DNA to link fragments of Dead Sea Scrolls, revealing new insights into their meaning and historical context. The analysis found that scrolls made from the same animal skin were more likely to belong together.
A study published in Environmental Science & Technology found that mussels and sediment from Hiroshima Bay contain novel bioaccumulative compounds with high toxicological effects. The researchers identified unknown mixed halogenated compounds with similar physicochemical properties to persistent organic pollutants.
Researchers at Shinshu University have created a method to blend different types of thermoplastic materials without compromising their quality. By using a compatibilizer, they successfully melted various plastics together, paving the way for more efficient recycling and reducing plastic waste in the environment.
A commentary article exposes COVID-19 conspiracy theories linked to Dr. Judy Mikovits' fraudulent research, highlighting the dangers of such misinformation. The journal AIDS Research and Human Retroviruses has spoken out against the spread of false information on social media platforms.
Researchers from FAU Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute used satellite telemetry to track the movement of Indian River Lagoon dolphins at night. The study found that these dolphins regularly leave the estuarine system and swim substantial distances up freshwater rivers, creeks, and canals.
Tropical Depression 03L is expected to generate heavy rainfall in Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula. NASA's Aqua satellite detected coldest cloud top temperatures as cold as minus 80 degrees Fahrenheit, indicating strong storms in the region.
Scientists at the DOE's Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory have reproduced a process that occurs in space to deepen understanding of what happens when the Earth encounters the solar wind. The research aims to help forecast space weather and protect satellites that enable global communication.
A team of researchers has discovered a way to create a nitrogen-rich fertilizer using human waste, which could increase agriculture yields in developing countries and reduce groundwater contamination. The new method involves recycling nitrogen from urine through a process involving biochar and CO2 priming.
Researchers from SUTD have developed a new material that increases the lifespan of rechargeable batteries using sodium ion technology. The breakthrough addresses the global shortage of lithium resources and enhances energy density, enabling more efficient power supplies for electronic products.
A study by Jacek Kapica identifies three indicators to help find the perfect size for renewable wind and solar energy storage facilities while optimizing energy harvesting. Increasing power reliability influences the nominal power of energy generation units at a given size of storage.
Researchers at Tokyo University of Science discovered how plants recognize specific chemical signals in insect oral secretions to trigger their defense responses. The study reveals a complex molecular alarm system that helps plants develop 'immunity' against predators, providing new insights into plant defense mechanisms.
Basic research funding for cancer therapies reached $64 billion, with the NIH contributing $20 billion and other institutes providing the majority of the remaining funds. This funding enabled the development of innovative immunotherapies for cancer.
A new web resource has been created to provide scientists with easy access to the latest SARS-CoV-2 protein structures, ensuring the highest accuracy possible for treatments and vaccines. The tool, developed by an international team of experts, also includes assessments of model quality and enhanced versions when available.
Researchers developed a thermoluminescent material that responds to UV radiation, overcoming current limitations in personal and environmental UV dosimetry. The new material enables accurate detection of UV exposure and has potential applications in various fields.
Researchers have discovered that a nodosaur, an armoured dinosaur, primarily ate fern leaves, with 88% of its stomach contents composed of chewed leaf material. The team found evidence of specific fern species, including those that grow in fire-scarred landscapes, suggesting the dinosaur adapted to exploit post-fire vegetation.
Researchers have created a two-component bioelectrode using biological components from nature, improving the efficiency of sunlight conversion into electrical energy. The new design enables the use of twice as many photons within the green gap, compared to previous systems.
Researchers at UCI have engineered human cells to mimic squid skin, allowing them to change their transparency and scattering of light. The study's findings offer a potential method for tuning light-scattering properties in human cells and may lead to new biomolecular markers for medical applications.
A recent study identifies two genes, SNRNP35 and ZNF140, that may affect PTSD susceptibility. Individuals with PTSD tend to have lower expression of SNRNP35 in the brain and higher expression of ZNF140 in the blood. This research could lead to new treatment and prevention strategies for PTSD.
Researchers confirm strong association between bed bug infestations and socioeconomic factors like neighborhood income, eviction rates, and crowding. The study uses systematic data from Chicago's Department of Buildings to show that poorer neighborhoods face higher risk of bed bug infestations.
A recent study published in the American Journal of Pathology found that convalescent plasma therapy is a safe treatment option for patients with severe COVID-19 disease. The therapy showed significant improvement in 76% of patients, with no adverse side effects caused by the plasma transfusion.
School-based mindfulness programs have shown promise in teaching children with autism to better control impulses and focus attention. Researchers found that the practice improved executive functions, including emotional regulation and decision-making.
Researchers found that solar geoengineering schemes could weaken extratropical storm tracks in both hemispheres, leading to less powerful winter storms but also stagnant conditions and reduced wind. The study's results have significant implications for understanding the potential effects of climate engineering on global weather patterns.
Scientists at ChristianaCare's Gene Editing Institute have developed a new CRISPR advance that can safely target and disable the NRF2 gene linked to a bleak prognosis in lung cancer tumors. This approach aims to improve the efficacy of conventional chemotherapy and radiation treatments while minimizing harm to normal cells.
Researchers have discovered the closest young brown dwarf with a disk that could potentially host planets, located just 332 light-years from Earth. The brown dwarf, named W1200-7845, is estimated to be 3.7 million years old and sits within a moving group of stars.
A new study proposes a model for the formation of diamond-bearing kimberlites in Northern Alberta, which was caused by the movement of an ancient slab of oceanic rocks. The research combines geophysical imaging, geochronological dating and plate motion calculation to explain how diamonds came to Earth's surface.
Researchers identified 115 MAM-specific proteins using a new technique, Contact-ID, which facilitates calcium transport and lipid metabolism. The discovery is significant for understanding neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's.
The Center for BrainHealth provides online cognitive training modules, video series, and live sessions to help front line workers mitigate stress and boost cognitive performance. The program aims to empower participants with tools and practices to impact their capacity for stress resilience.
A study analyzing 2,743 global environmental conflicts found that activists are often victims of criminalization, physical violence, and murder, with indigenous peoples disproportionately affected. Successful mobilizations can halt environmentally destructive projects, with a success rate of up to 27% when combining strategies.
A RAND Corporation study found that behavioral health integration is possible in various medical practices, with adaptation to each practice's needs being key to success. Financial sustainability remains a challenge, despite the effectiveness of integration in improving patient care and reducing mental illness burden.
The study focuses on flipons, DNA sequences that act as on-off switches to change genetic information. Flipons enable the compilation of multiple messages from a single genomic sequence, generating more diversity than mutation or DNA rearrangements.
A team of scientists at Lancaster University has discovered a single molecule that can act like a transistor and store binary information. The molecule, which is around five square nanometres in size, could potentially offer information density of 250 terabits per square inch.
A global study found that COVID-19 patients who undergo surgery experience substantially worse postoperative outcomes than similar patients without SARS-CoV-2 infection. Mortality rates approach those of the sickest patients admitted to intensive care after contracting the virus in the community.
A new review reveals a surprising number of exceptions to the purported rules of sex chromosome evolution, questioning their applicability across species. Global dosage compensation is found to be the exception rather than the rule, and studies show high rates of turnover and diversity in sex chromosomes.
Researchers at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory launch three new projects to quantify and reduce the carbon intensity of agriculture. The projects aim to increase yield while decreasing emissions, making biofuel production more sustainable and profitable for farmers.
A new study predicts a significant decrease in US snowstorms due to climate change, with a potential 28% reduction in frequency and size of snowstorms. The study suggests that winters will start later, end earlier, and experience fewer extreme snowfall events.
A study published in Radiology found that 51% of patients with a pulmonary embolism were diagnosed in the Emergency Department, and 72% of PE diagnoses occurred in patients not requiring ICU-level care. Early detection using CT angiography was key to treatment, and preventive blood thinners should be considered for COVID-19 patients.
A team of scientists at Tata Institute of Fundamental Research has detected tiny flashes of radio light from all over the Sun, identified as evidence for small magnetic explosions. These discoveries could explain the long-standing coronal heating problem, with preliminary estimates suggesting that these tiny explosions collectively hav...
A new study reveals that metabolic differences in Humboldt penguins' blood can indicate their nesting habitat, with distinct patterns of sugars found in sheltered and exposed nests. The findings suggest that penguins in exposed areas are more likely to be exposed to air pollution.
Scientists have uncovered the mechanism behind chromosome elimination in plants, which could enable removal of harmful genes for medical purposes. The process involves impaired transport of B chromosomes, resulting in their degradation and sparing of root cells from potentially toxic genes.
Researchers developed two experimental devices to study the harmful effects of hyperperistalsis on synthetic uterine tissue. The study found that peristaltic shear stresses caused alterations to endometrial epithelial cells and myometrial smooth muscle cells.
Researchers at Tulane University discovered a way to inhibit aggressive triple negative breast cancer by targeting the TRAF3IP2 gene. Suppressing this gene suppresses tumor growth and metastasis, while silencing another gene, Rab27a, only delays tumor growth but not metastasis.