A new drill core analysis from the Smithsonian reveals a 400,000-year-old boom-bust landscape that drove early humans to abandon old tools, develop sophisticated technology, and broaden trade networks. The findings suggest climate variability was one of several environmental factors contributing to human adaptability.
Protected areas facilitate wintering waterbird adaptation to climate warming, with species shifting faster inside protected areas. This suggests that protected area networks can contribute to expanding species ranges and preventing local extinctions.
Researchers from Queensland University of Technology found that image editing software has the power to re-imagine history, and deadline-driven journalists lack tools to detect manipulated images. The study highlights the need for better verification tools and digital literacy to combat visual mis/disinformation online.
The diabolical ironclad beetle's survival depends on its ability to convincingly play dead and an exoskeleton with a tough, crush-resistant structure. Researchers found that the beetle's elytra consists of layers of chitin and protein matrix, which contribute to its enhanced toughness.
Researchers at UCLA have identified a compound called AMBMP that can activate chemical signals inside muscle cells, increasing muscle mass and strength. This finding offers new hope for treating people with limb girdle muscular dystrophy, a disease characterized by progressive muscle weakness.
The study investigated the long-term effects of sirolimus on three different cell in vitro models, cultured in physiological conditions mimicking sirolimus-eluted stent. Sirolimus showed a cytostatic effect but had varying effects on clonogenic potential among different cell types.
Researchers at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute have discovered the first shell-like formations of stars in the Milky Way, created by a 2.7 billion-year-old broadside collision with a dwarf galaxy. The findings offer new insights into the ancient event and its potential implications for other stellar phenomena.
A new study by Children's Hospital Los Angeles reveals that tumor necrosis factor (TNF) plays a complex role in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), with implications for future therapies. Researchers found that TNF signaling and receptor activation developmentally may be more important than simply blocking the molecule.
Researchers developed a new material that can separate CO2 from industrial waste gases, natural gas, and biogas without chemically binding it. The process is energy-efficient and cost-effective, making it an important contribution to climate protection and sustainable industrial production.
StabiLux Biosciences has received a $500,000 NSF grant to refine high-brightness dyes into commercial-grade products. The technology can revitalize organic dyes with tunable brightness and high photostability for biomedical applications.
A new imaging technique has been developed that allows scientists to study the tiny details of a whole animal heart in 3D. This technique may lead to new insights into congenital heart disease and improve survival rates for people born with heart defects. The study reveals structural differences between healthy and defective heart cell...
A team of researchers using AI technology has counted over 1.8 billion trees and shrubs in the Sahara Desert, revealing a previously unknown factor in the global carbon budget. The study highlights the importance of trees in dryland areas for biodiversity and ecosystems, as well as their potential to improve agroforestry programs.
Scientists at UVA Health System created a simpler, more effective method to convert green fluorescent biosensors to red, improving their ability to monitor multiple targets and peer into tissues. This innovation has the potential to accelerate research in fields such as insulin secretion control and neural activity patterns.
A preclinical study suggests a novel therapeutic immunomodulatory vaccine may slow memory impairment and prevent Aβ oligomer aggregation, with strong immunomodulatory effects without inducing inflammation. The vaccine targets toxic Aβ molecules in the brain, providing a safer alternative to existing anti-amyloid treatments.
A three-year $591,000 NSF grant will help geoscientist Ben Gill solve the riddle of the Triassic mass-extinction event. The study aims to determine the longer-term timeline of changes in life and environment before and after the extinction, as well as assess the role of oxygen content changes in the oceans.
Penn State researchers are creating a new method to monitor HIV treatment effectiveness at home. The device will enable patients to use a finger prick test and reduce hospital visits to check their viral loads, reducing mortality and morbidity rates.
Researchers compared tocilizumab with standard care to prevent clinical worsening in patients hospitalized with COVID-19 pneumonia. Early administration of tocilizumab was found to be effective in reducing the risk of worsening in these patients.
A research team at George Washington University is exploring the role of sex hormones in HIV latency and its impact on treatment efficacy. The study aims to develop more effective approaches to a cure for HIV, particularly for women and transgender patients who are disproportionately affected by the virus.
A newly discovered gene in pyrosomes, an underwater colony of tiny animals, is believed to produce the organism's bioluminescence. The gene matches one used in biotechnology and has been found in other organisms that also glow.
A new fluid dynamics model shows that tiny droplets can spread over long distances and remain airborne for a long time, making masks and distancing measures less effective. The model predicts that even with proper ventilation, it's possible to come into contact with the virus in certain environments.
The University of Luxembourg is pioneering the use of machine learning to identify potent drug candidates and accelerate pharmaceutical development. By combining quantum mechanics and large molecular datasets, researchers hope to overcome challenges in chemical discovery and create novel compounds with tailored properties.
Temple Lung Center enrolls first patient in RejuvenAir clinical trial to treat moderate to severe COPD with CB; aims to address daily symptom burden and hospitalization risk. The system delivers metered doses of liquid nitrogen spray to targeted airways, potentially allowing new cells to regrow.
The study elucidated how Rubisco activase works, revealing that it grabs the N-terminal tail of Rubisco and releases inhibitory sugar molecules using ATP energy. This dual function enables Rca to recruit into carboxysomes, where CO2 is generated, making photosynthesis more efficient.
Researchers found that tocilizumab, an anti-inflammatory drug, reduced mortality by 30 percent in critically ill COVID-19 patients when administered early in ICU care. The study analyzed data from over 4,000 patients with COVID-19 and found consistent benefits across age, sex, and illness severity.
Researchers estimate COVID-19 cough cloud volume and droplet distribution in closed spaces with and without face masks. The study found that the cloud volume without a mask is 7 times larger than with a surgical mask and 23 times larger than with an N95 mask.
Scientists at Japan Advanced Institute of Science and Technology developed a novel approach to quantify the psychological appeal of games. They found that the value of 'gravity in the mind' changed over time, reflecting cultural tendencies and historical trends.
Researchers developed a rapid, cost-effective method to predict lowest antibiotic concentration increasing resistance in wastewater. The SELECT assay can generate data quickly and inform decisions on safe levels of antibiotics.
A new study finds that salt-based mosquito-control products have no effect on killing adult mosquitoes, despite claims of its effectiveness. The researchers tested nine species of mosquito and found no evidence that ingestion of salt water kills the insects.
A team of researchers from the University of Tokyo has discovered a feedback system between water molecules that opens up new design possibilities for highly selective membranes. These membranes, which can filter out viruses and other contaminants, could also be used to improve lithium-ion battery performance.
Researchers have discovered how sea slugs protect chloroplasts from damage caused by light, allowing them to continue photosynthesis. The findings provide insight into this unique animal-chloroplast relationship and its potential implications for longevity.
Scientists discovered a new kind of hidden symmetry in photonic crystals, leading to the emergence of triply degenerate nexus points that behave like magnetic monopoles. These nexus points enable unusual photonic band connectivities and novel transport phenomena, including spin-1 conical dispersion and canonical diffraction.
A new research letter found that clinicians gave more patients temporary mechanical pumps under the new policy, moving them up the transplant list. This could lead to a higher likelihood of prioritizing male patients over females.
The Misophonia Research Fund has awarded over $4 million in funding to researchers studying misophonia, a condition that triggers strong emotions in response to specific sounds. The funded projects will develop new therapeutic strategies and investigate the physiological basis of misophonia symptomology.
A recent study by Syracuse University professor Shannon Monnat found that mortality rates are higher for U.S. working-age residents living in rural areas compared to metro areas. The gap is widening, driven by increased mortality from metabolic and respiratory diseases, suicide, alcohol-related disorders, and mental/behavioral disorders.
A global survey of 13,400 people in 19 countries found that 72% would likely take the vaccine, while 14% refused and 14% hesitated. Vaccine confidence was higher in countries with higher trust in government.
The New York Stem Cell Foundation (NYSCF) has announced the 2020 class of NYSCF - Robertson Investigators, recognizing six outstanding stem cell researchers and neuroscientists. The program provides critical seed funding to support cutting-edge research with the potential to accelerate treatments and cures.
Macrophages, such as M1 and M2 cells, play a crucial role in the immune response. Researchers have developed a method using gold nanorod scattering to identify these cells from tissue fluids or blood samples. This technique has the potential to predict disease stages, including cancer, atherosclerosis, and fibrosis.
The cGAS-STING pathway plays a central role in immunosurveillance, coordinating immune cell recruitment to destroy transformed cells through cellular senescence or cell death programs. Chronic activation of this pathway can lead to inflammation-induced carcinogenesis, cautioning against its use as an anti-tumor immunotherapy.
Washington State University scientists developed a method to detect Alzheimer's disease biomarkers in blood, 10 times more sensitive than current technology. The artificial enzyme, called a nanozyme, can detect the biomarkers at levels lower than commercial ELISA tests.
A study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences found that liberals and conservatives exhibit distinct brain responses when exposed to the same political content, particularly when it involves words related to morality, emotions, and threat. The researchers discovered that neural polarization is driven by highe...
Researchers have identified phosphorus-containing compounds as markers for thyroid hormone action in tissue using non-invasive magnetic resonance spectroscopy. This allows for the measurement of hormone action in different areas of the body, potentially improving care for patients with thyroid dysfunction.
Researchers at Osaka University developed a unique imaging technique using terahertz light to visualize early-stage breast cancer less than 0.5 mm. The technique boasts an accuracy of approximately 1000 times higher than conventional methods and shows promise for quantitative determination of cancer malignancy.
Research published in Thorax finds a clear association between steroid treatment and an increased risk of osteoporosis and fragility fractures. Patients prescribed high doses or multiple courses of steroid tablets were more likely to develop these conditions, highlighting the need for bone protection guidance in asthma management.
The Dome of the Rock's marble slabs depict two birds, which break the symmetry of the southern wall and have remained unchanged for over 350 years. Sufi traditions and stories about Solomon and the birds demonstrate their influence on the shrine's conception.
Researchers at FAU identify a protein in dodder that triggers tomato defense mechanism, allowing crops to recognize and resist parasitic attacks. The discovery may lead to increased crop resistance against parasitic plants.
A University of Michigan study found that nearly one-third of students who reported misusing prescription opioids as high school seniors later used heroin by age 35. The research also showed a significant increase in heroin use among individuals with a history of prescription opioid misuse, contributing to the opioid epidemic.
A team of international researchers identified the second key used by SARS-CoV-2 to enter human cells as Neuropilin-1. This discovery reveals a new antiviral strategy to block infection and may lead to future therapeutic approaches. The study provides insights into the virus's ability to spread rapidly and evade the immune system.
The D3Targets-2019-nCoV webserver uses molecular docking to predict potential drug targets for SARS-CoV-2 and identifies lead compounds via multi-site docking. The server incorporates various features, including correlated conformations and binding sites, making it a valuable tool for medicinal chemists and clinicians combating COVID-19.
Researchers at UArizona Health Sciences have identified a biomarker, MiR130b, that appears in patients before stomach cancer develops. The biomarker can be detected through a simple blood test, potentially saving time and lowering costs compared to current diagnostic procedures.
Researchers at Binghamton University have won NSF funding for a new method of producing microscopic circuits. They plan to use carbon nanotubes to etch circuit patterns onto materials, potentially creating less expensive and more efficient production methods.
Researchers at NUST MISIS have developed antibacterial nano-coatings based on boron nitride that are highly effective against microbial pathogens, including up to 99.99% efficacy against E. coli bacteria. The coatings work by releasing the antibiotic gentamicin locally, reducing the need for high doses and minimizing side effects.
A new risk prediction model, QCOVID, estimates severe illness risk from Covid-19 in the UK adult population. The model performs well, predicting 73% of variation in time to death, and identifies individuals at highest risk.
A recent study reveals that SARS-CoV-2 can remain infectious in aerosol particles for up to 3 hours, and that large droplets don't travel far, contrary to initial medical guidelines. Engineers recommend increasing outdoor air supply, using fine particle filters, or short-wavelength UV-C light to deactivate virus particles.
Researchers found that neuropilin-1 promotes infection in the presence of ACE2, enabling virus to reach the nervous system. Blocking neuropilin-1 may be a viable therapeutic approach for COVID-19 treatment.
Scientists at NREL developed a next-generation thermochromic window that reduces energy consumption and generates electricity. The new technology enables various colors and temperature-driven color changes, increasing design flexibility and control over building aesthetics.
A study of 33 free-college programs found significant enrollment increases among Black, Hispanic, and female students. Promise programs with merit-based requirements and full tuition coverage showed the largest boosts in enrollment.
A new study suggests that controlling two proteins, ANP32E and H2AZ, could prevent cancer by regulating cell division and tumor growth. With high levels of H2AZ found in breast and brain cancers, targeting these proteins may make cancer cells more sensitive to anti-cancer drugs or immune-system attack.
A survey study of US adults found that vaccine-related attributes and political characteristics are associated with self-reported preferences for choosing a hypothetical COVID-19 vaccine. The results may inform public health campaigns to address vaccine hesitancy when a COVID-19 vaccine becomes available.
Researchers are working to determine how severe coastal storms contribute to water pollution in beach aquifers. The team will use computerized sensors installed at sites along the shoreline to measure groundwater flow and track the effects of saltwater intrusion.
A new study found that dementia prevention strategies can be cost-effective and cost-saving, reducing dementia rates by 8.5% and saving £1.86 billion each year in England. The interventions included nicotine gum, medication for high blood pressure, and hearing aids.