The deep ocean is warming at a slower rate than the surface, with climate velocity accelerating to 11 times the present rate in waters between 200-1000 metres by the end of the century. This poses huge challenges for protecting areas and mitigating threats to deep-sea life.
A study of 175 reports found that 32.3% of North American perching birds defend their territories against other species, with hybridizing species more likely to do so. Resource competition is a key driver of territorial behavior in these birds.
A new study by University of Wisconsin-Madison researchers reveals that silicon carbide's grain boundaries are susceptible to radiation-induced segregation, affecting the material's chemistry. This discovery could aid in fine-tuning ceramic materials for high-tech applications like nuclear energy and jet engines.
Researchers have developed an efficient way to create micro-combs and exploit them in highly performing and robust frequency multiplexed optical fibre networks. This breakthrough enables the record-high data transmission over 75 km of standard optical fibre using a powerful class of micro-comb called soliton crystals.
Researchers created a physical-economic model analyzing collision risk, orbital debris, and satellite counts from 1957-2017. Imposing a tax on orbiting satellites could increase the industry's value by decreasing these risks and amount of space debris.
Researchers have developed UVC LEDs emitting at 230nm that can destroy microorganisms without allowing resistances to develop. The system achieves high irradiation power and uniformity, making it suitable for killing MDR pathogens and inactivating coronaviruses.
Researchers have assessed the diversity of freshwater molluscs in the Circumpolar region, finding 104 species. They attribute their ability to survive in the Arctic to biological traits such as hermaphroditism and air travel.
A study found significant gender imbalance in medical imaging datasets used to train classifiers, leading to biased AI-based diagnostic systems. The analysis showed that underrepresented groups were misclassified more frequently than the majority group.
Researchers analyzed child brain activity using fMRI to predict working memory abilities during development. The study found that brain network activity in the frontoparietal network was unique to working memory and reflected individual capabilities.
A study found that rats could identify the rhythmic structure of a song while ignoring changes to the melody. This suggests that the principles of rhythmic organization in music are also present in other animals, including humans. The results indicate that this cognitive ability has very deep evolutionary roots.
A new study calls for a radically different approach to addressing deforestation, focusing on understanding how individuals make choices about forests and livelihoods. Researchers propose using specially designed board games to help stakeholders align forces despite differing values and worldviews.
A genome-wide analysis has identified 19 new genetic risk factors for problematic alcohol use and confirmed 10 previously known factors. The study also found shared genetic associations with psychiatric disorders such as depression and anxiety.
The study reveals that imidazole catalyzes the formation of prebiotic peptides, shifting the activation site from N-terminus to O-terminus. This finding sheds light on the origin of life and proposes a new hypothesis for its emergence.
Researchers have developed an antibody that can accurately detect and quantify toxic amyloid-beta oligomers, a hallmark of Alzheimer's disease. This discovery could lead to improved diagnostic methods and ultimately help monitor the progression of the disease.
Researchers found that small and independent stores had fewer resources for place management than large chain stores, making it harder to control neighborhood crime. However, improved law enforcement and manager training may help reduce crime in areas with high density of alcohol sales outlets.
Researchers developed plasmonic metasurfaces that can be tuned with polarization light, providing efficient saturable absorption for ultrafast lasers. The metasurfaces achieved stable self-starting ultrashort laser pulse generation with a modulation depth of up to 60%, outperforming previous studies.
Researchers have developed a new combined treatment using a senescence inducer and a senolytic nanoparticle that selectively removes senescent cells, delaying tumor growth and reducing metastasis in aggressive breast cancer. The study provides new therapeutic methodologies to be developed in subsequent stages and clinical trials.
Researchers have developed a new electrode material that can improve the efficiency and economic feasibility of salinity gradient power generation using reverse electrodialysis. The material, molybdenum disulfide thin films, was synthesized directly on the electrode current collector surface to enhance electrochemical activity.
French prehistory saw two significant migration waves: Neolithic and Bronze Age, which mixed with native hunter-gatherers. The study found that 7,000 years of admixture between these groups still influences the genomes of French people.
SourceCNRS·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 25, 2020
Researchers reveal that glass frog translucency acts as a unique form of camouflage, but with a mechanism different from true transparency. The 'edge diffusion' strategy involves a diffuse gradient between the frog's color and its surroundings, making it harder to spot.
Researchers at UC Davis developed a new double-contrast technique that uses magnetic resonance imaging to detect small tumors in normal tissue. The technique, called two-way magnetic resonance tuning (TMRET), increases the signal contrast between tumors and surrounding tissue, enabling more sensitive detection of early-stage tumors.
The analysis of ancient genomes has revealed how demographic events such as migrations have spurred major cultural shifts in France. The study found that Magdalenian-associated ancestry survived beyond the Iberian Peninsula, and that Neolithic people who migrated to France descended from Anatolian farmers.
Studies found that migratory bird species shifted their breeding ranges northward, while resident species expanded their ranges in response to climate change. This suggests that some species may be resilient to future changes, but others may face greater vulnerability.
A new study suggests that implementing orbital-use fees for satellites in orbit could reduce collision risk and increase the industry's long-run value. The fees, which would be calculated based on projected costs of additional collision risk and space debris production, could quadruple the value of the satellite industry by 2040.
Researchers predict novel helium-methane compound He3CH4, stable under high pressure, with unique phase transitions upon heating. The compound's van der Waals interactions facilitate efficient heat transport, affecting a planet's interior and surface temperature.
Researchers developed a model of the early embryonic brain, enabling them to study brain development and create tissue that resembles an embryonic brain. This breakthrough paves the way for faster production of specific nerve cells for stem cell therapy.
Researchers demonstrate that locally observed robot distribution can correlate with environmental features, such as exits in office-like environments. This approach enables trapped office workers to navigate their way out of a collapsed building, even in scenarios where robots lack communication or sensors.
Astronomers have created the most detailed evolutionary history of the Milky Way up to now, combining apparent luminosity with measured distance and accurate star models. The study reveals well-defined periods of great activity in star formation, including dramatic episodes that stimulated new star creation.
Scientists analyzed tiny tungsten ditelluride crystals and detected characteristic oscillations indicating current flows along narrow edges, supporting theoretical predictions of higher-order topological material properties.
A new study by researchers from McGill University and the University of Toronto finds a cross-partisan consensus on battling COVID-19 in Canada. Canadians from different political parties are taking similar social distancing measures and expressing similar levels of confidence in the federal government's response.
A fatal case of Lyme carditis in a previously healthy man illustrates the challenges of diagnosing Lyme disease. Early treatment with antibiotics is crucial to prevent complications, especially in patients presenting with heart palpitations or atrioventricular block.
Researchers have found that genetic mutations from birth can promote cancer metastasis, with a single gene variant ApoE4 associated with slower tumor growth and better immune response. This discovery may lead to personalized treatment approaches for patients based on their genetics.
A recent study published in Annals of Internal Medicine found that loss of smell and taste are common symptoms of COVID-19, particularly among hospitalized and ambulatory patients. The researchers suggest that anosmia may not be related to nasal obstruction or inflammation.
Researchers found that marine species are moving up to six times faster than their terrestrial counterparts in response to global warming. The study analyzed over 12,000 species and found that certain conditions enable marine species to adapt quickly to temperature shifts towards the poles.
Researchers at Lund University have created a new model that mimics the early developmental stages of the human brain, allowing them to study how different regions form and potentially produce specific neural cells for treatment. The model, called MiSTR, enables faster production of neural cells for neurological diseases.
Researchers have visualized the single-molecule level operation of cellulosomes during cellulose degradation using time-lapse atomic force microscopy. This breakthrough provides new perspectives for applications in industrial biorefineries by exploiting the synergies between cellulosome and free enzymes.
MetaviralSPAdes is a new assembler for virus genomes, enabling biologists to reconstruct complete viral genomes from metagenome sequencing results. This tool tackles the challenge of identifying and stitching together viral sequences from thousands of bacterial genomes.
A diffractive neural network, implemented by a compound Huygens' metasurface, realizes all seven basic optical logic operations in a compact system using a plane wave as input signal. The design strategy features flexible modification and eliminates the need for precise control of input light.
Researchers analyzed sea-surface temperatures and planktonic foraminifer shells to determine that tropical ocean biodiversity started declining around 15,000 years ago, before the Anthropocene era. Continued global warming may further reduce biodiversity in tropical oceans.
Researchers developed a novel two-dimensional titanium carbide MXene film serving as an efficient flexible electrode for light-emitting diodes. The MXene-based LEDs exhibit high efficiency and flexibility, surpassing conventional indium tin oxide-based devices.
Scientists at Osaka University have successfully demonstrated a quantum random walk using trapped ions, which may lead to new quantum simulations of biological systems. The technique relies on precise control of individual ions and can help resolve open questions in chemistry and biology.
Brazilian pulmonologist Dr. Elnara Negri argues that COVID-19 should be treated as a thrombotic disease, citing the use of anti-coagulant drug heparin to improve patient outcomes. She reports a successful treatment protocol with 80 patients, with none dying and four in ICU.
Researchers have identified Creld2 as a key player in the development and growth of aggressive breast cancers. High levels of this protein are found in triple negative breast cancers, which have poor survival rates and are difficult to treat.
Astronomers have captured an image of a super-rare type of galaxy with a 'ring of fire' structure, existing 11 billion years ago. This discovery is expected to shake up theories about the earliest formation of galactic structures and how they evolve.
Pensoft has launched a pilot phase with its open-access journal Biodiversity Data Journal, certifying reviewers' contributions via ReviewerCredits. Reviewers can now record their peer reviews and earn virtual credits redeemable for benefits, including discounted APCs.
A recent Danish study found that having a child with cancer does not increase the risk of parents experiencing separation or divorce. The researchers also discovered that children with cancer do not negatively impact parents' future family planning decisions.
Scientists at KIT have developed a programmable biohybrid material system that uses bacteria to generate power. The system consists of a nanocomposite and the Shewanella oneidensis bacterium, which produces electrons. The team achieved controlled electron flow with increasing bacterial cells on the conductive matrix.
A study by the University of Bonn shows that smartphone-based fundus imaging can detect diabetic retinopathy with high accuracy, even in early stages. The method allows for efficient screening and diagnosis, enabling trained laypersons to examine patients, reducing hospital visits.
Researchers design an experiment to demonstrate chirality-dependent optical lateral force on microparticles, achieving robust bidirectional sorting and reversible optical lateral forces. The study opens new avenues for direct detection and sorting of microparticles with imperceptible chemical differences.
Researchers at Skoltech and MIPT predicted and experimentally confirmed the existence of exotic hexagonal NaCl thin films on a diamond surface. The films may be useful as gate dielectrics for field-effect transistors in electric vehicles and telecommunication equipment.
A natural amino acid called arginine has been identified as a potential new treatment for polyglutamine diseases. The study found that arginine improved neurological symptoms in mice with polyQ diseases before and after symptom onset, suggesting its therapeutic potential.
Researchers found concern for others was a key driver of polio vaccination in Israel during a polio resurgence. Understanding the campaign's prosocial nature influenced vaccination behavior, highlighting the role of communication in improving outcomes.
A new species of miniaturized stump-toed frog, Stumpffia froschaueri, has been discovered in Madagascar and classified as Critically Endangered due to habitat loss and fragmentation. The species is found only in areas with relatively undisturbed forest, where it has been observed during the day.
Researchers at the University of Ottawa have discovered a new sex hormone in zebrafish that regulates sexual behavior and reproduction. The hormone, secretoneurin peptide, was found to restore sexual function in genetically modified fish by increasing hormone release and enhancing ovulation.
A study published in Annals of Internal Medicine found that cloth masks can block droplet and aerosol contamination, reducing the risk of COVID-19 transmission. The researchers recommend using multiple layers of cotton cloth for maximum protection.
Researchers used drones to create centimeter-resolution 3D models of a volcano in Guatemala, revealing slow expansion and fast extrusion of viscous lava. The study provides new possibilities for measuring ground movements and predicting volcanic danger.
Two plasma and 10 cerebrospinal fluid biomarkers were identified to aid in early detection of MS with high sensitivity and specificity. These biomarkers may help monitor treatment response and disease progression.
Scientists have developed a new scheme to generate near-single-cycle mid-infrared pulses in plasmas, achieving conversion efficiencies of up to 30%. The method uses two terawatt-level short-pulse lasers incident into an underdense plasma channel, producing a tunable mid-infrared pulse with millijoules of energy.
Researchers analyzed global shipping fleet movements between 1977 and 2008 to understand how routes evolve. A model based on common neighbor ports and sea distance predicts the likelihood of forming direct links between unlinked ports.
The study found that global mean climate velocities in the deepest ocean layers have been 2-4 times faster than at surface over the past 20th century. Climate velocities are projected to continue accelerating even under strong greenhouse gas emission mitigation scenarios, posing significant threats to deep sea biodiversity.
Researchers proposed a new scheme to generate near-single-cycle mid-infrared light pulses with a few millijoules in energy, achieving a high conversion efficiency of 30%. The method utilizes two terawatt-level short-pulse lasers and an underdense plasma channel.
An international team of scientists has identified candidate resistance genes that could protect ash trees from the EAB, a deadly pest expected to kill billions of trees. Researchers sequenced the genomes of 22 species of ash tree and found 53 candidate resistance genes involved in making chemicals harmful to insects.
Research found that most people at high risk of overdose in Vancouver's Downtown Eastside who use cannabis do so for pain relief and other therapeutic reasons. Cannabis users in this group had lower odds of experiencing a recent non-fatal opioid overdose, indicating a possible reduction in opioid reliance.
A single negative high-quality screening colonoscopy was associated with reduced colorectal cancer incidence and mortality. The study found a 90% reduction in CRC mortality over 17.4 years, suggesting that the current 10-year screening interval could safely be extended.
Researchers found Oriental tit birds give distinct alarm calls to snakes and chipmunks, warning nestlings of snake threat but not chipmunk danger. The study suggests a specific call signals 'be aware of a snake' rather than general predator alert.
Disruption of hippocampal activity with TMS impairs future imagining and creative thinking abilities in young adults. Reduced activity in the hippocampus is linked to decreased future imagining and divergent thinking.
Scientists have developed a new type of laser that can deliver high amounts of energy in very short bursts, making it ideal for corneal surgery. The research uses quartic solitons to produce short, powerful light pulses without heating and damaging the surface.
Researchers have developed a visible-wavelength passively mode-locked all-fibre laser, generating picosecond pulses at 635 nm. The laser has a tunable duration and a narrow spectral bandwidth, opening up new possibilities for applications in optical communications, biomedicine, material processing, and scientific research.
Researchers analyzed 155 COVID-19 patients in Wuhan, China, finding that over 50% of critically ill patients died due to multiple organ dysfunction and severe complications. The study highlights the importance of early intervention, including timely nutrition support and antibiotic treatment for bacterial co-infections.