The study reveals the oldest mitochondrial genome of a Neanderthal found in Central-Eastern Europe, dating back ~80,000 years. Genetic analysis shows a strong connection between Poland and the Northern Caucasus, shedding light on Neanderthals' adaptability and biology.
Researchers have identified a potential new treatment for dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) using an acne drug. A single mutation in the RBM20 gene was found to cause the disease, and increasing expression of this protein may overcome the insufficient expression seen in patients with DCM.
A cross-continental team of researchers found that deer migration patterns are influenced by the progression of springtime plant growth, with slow and long green-ups correlating to resident strategies. The study suggests that conservation efforts should be tailored to local patterns of forage availability.
Researchers found abnormalities in brain function related to symptom severity in both disorders, with more severe symptoms linked to distinct patterns of activity and connectivity. The study suggests that addressing these brain abnormalities through psychotherapy or psychiatric medications could be key to treating these conditions.
A new study finds that states with HIV criminalization laws have lower PrEP uptake rates, while those with nondiscrimination laws for sexual minorities have higher rates. The researchers call for state governments to repeal criminalization laws and improve access to HIV treatment and prevention.
Flinders University researchers have found a way to convert marine waste into valuable dietary proteins and products. The study suggests that sea cucumbers and other marine animals can be used as a source of protein-rich nutrients.
A Danish nationwide cohort study found no association between NSAID use and adverse outcomes in COVID-19 patients. The study suggests that the well-established risks of NSAIDs should be considered when using them during the pandemic.
Researchers discovered elevated markers associated with heat stress and pesticide exposure in failed queens from B.C., suggesting temperature fluctuations during transportation and potential pesticide effects may contribute to queen bee failure. A diagnostic test is proposed to help beekeepers understand and prevent this issue.
Researchers from OHSU have identified astrocytes in zebrafish, a key cell type for brain development and function. This discovery will enable studies on neurodegenerative diseases like autism spectrum disorder and schizophrenia.
Researchers at Skoltech have developed a simple and efficient method to convert silicon wafers into nanoparticles in an aqueous solution, providing a new source of sustainable materials. The process enables controlling particle sizes and has implications for optics, photonics, medicine, and other fields.
Researchers discovered that astrocytes in the thalamus produce GABA to fine-tune the sense of touch. The production of GABA accelerates signal processing and sharpens sensitivity, allowing neurons to distinguish subtle changes in tactile stimuli.
A study by Daphne Liu and Adrian Raftery found that contraceptive prevalence has a significantly greater impact on fertility decline than unmet need. Education also affects fertility, particularly through girls' early educational attainment, which can discourage families from having more children.
A new study maps changes in homicide rates across Brazil from 2000 to 2014, showing success in major urban areas but an explosion of homicides in northeastern regions. The research highlights the need for policies addressing spatial spillover and poverty rates as violence appears to move to neighboring areas.
A new study by Resources for the Future researcher Margaret Walls concludes that national monuments on US public lands have generated benefits exceeding costs and have not harmed local economies. In some cases, monument designations have increased nearby businesses and jobs.
A new study confirms insomnia as a novel risk factor for type 2 diabetes, with individuals experiencing a 17% higher likelihood of developing the condition. The research also identifies 15 protective factors, including increased total cholesterol and testosterone levels, which can help inform public health policies to prevent the disease.
Researchers demonstrated new methods for controlling spin waves in nanostructured materials, enabling energy-efficient information transfer and quantum computing applications. They achieved this by exciting magnons with short laser pulses, allowing precise control over spin wave parameters.
A new, tiny fiber optic force sensor has been developed by researchers, enabling precise measurements of small forces and opening up potential applications in medical systems and manufacturing. The sensor, made of silica glass, measures forces with a resolution better than a micronewton and has a broad measuring range.
A new study found that a protein called BIK triggers failed apoptosis, leading to DNA damage and mutations in ER-positive breast cancer cells. This process makes the cancer cells more aggressive and evasive of therapy.
A study analyzing opioid prescriptions after outpatient knee surgeries found significant variation in prescription strength and number of tablets across the US. States like Oklahoma prescribed more opioids than necessary, while others like Vermont had lower rates.
Researchers at KAUST developed a novel approach to grow single-crystal transition metal dichalcogenide (TMD) nanoribbons using surface templates and ledge-directed growth. The resulting TMD nanoribbons exhibited defect-free structures and could be transferred onto new substrates without damage.
The ECSJ2020 conference brought together 31 speakers and over 600 participants to discuss key issues in science journalism, including policy-making and high-uncertainty topics. The event featured award ceremonies for a Climate Investigation Grant and European Science Journalist of the Year.
A massive pyrocumulonimbus cloud formed over the Creek Fire in California's Sierra National Forest, with NASA's Suomi NPP satellite capturing its rapid spread. The fire has grown to over 135,000 acres, with hot and dry conditions fueling its expansion.
Typhoon Haishen made landfall in South Korea, bringing heavy rain, storm surge, and landslides. NASA's Aqua satellite captured infrared data showing the storm's temperature and rainfall potential, helping forecasters predict its path.
CEOs with uncommon names tend to implement distinctive strategies, deviating from industry norms to achieve competitive advantage and superior performance. This study provides insight into the relationship between a CEO's name and their strategic decisions, highlighting potential benefits for firms seeking enhanced distinctiveness.
A global analysis of over 200 thousand tree-ring records reveals that fast-growing trees have significantly shorter lifespans than slower-growing ones. This challenges predictions of increased carbon storage in forests over the long term, suggesting that growth-lifespan trade-offs may lead to a reduced forest carbon sink.
A study using anonymous mobile phone location data found correlations between increased travel and higher COVID-19 infection rates in US states after stay-at-home mandates were enacted. The findings suggest that mobility patterns can be an indicator of the spread of the virus.
A new study from North Carolina State University finds that racism is associated with increased social consciousness and activism in Black youth. The research found that stress from individual racism is linked to higher levels of perceived inequality, critical agency, and action aimed at changing systems.
Researchers at UNSW Sydney developed a new haptic device that recreates the sense of touch, enabling users to feel virtual or remote objects in a more realistic way. The device overcomes existing issues with haptic technology by introducing a novel method to recreate an effective haptic sensation via soft, miniature artificial muscles.
A team of scientists has made a breakthrough in understanding the complex process of photosynthesis by discovering that mRNAs transport proteins to thylakoid membranes. This finding opens up new avenues for research into photobiotechnology.
Researchers at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia found convalescent plasma to be a safe treatment option for children with life-threatening COVID-19 cases. The study suggests that convalescent plasma may provide the greatest benefit for early-stage patients who have not yet generated endogenous antibodies.
Researchers found no statistically significant differences in hospitalization, ICU admission, or mechanical ventilator use between the two groups. However, more patients with COVID-19 reported fever, cough, diarrhea, vomiting, headache, body ache, chest pain, sore throat, congestion, and shortness of breath at diagnosis.
A new subspecies of the rarest Palaearctic butterfly, Arctic Apollo, has been found in the Arctic Circle of Yakutia. The species, named Parnassius arcticus arbugaevi, exhibits distinct physical and DNA differences from other Arctic Apollo populations.
Researchers at Cornell University developed a method to create maneuverable 3D images showing changes in appearance over time using deep learning and tens of thousands of publicly available tourist photos. The tool, called Deep Multiplane Images, allows users to explore scenes from different viewpoints and time frames.
From 2016 to 2018, e-cigarette use decreased significantly among US adults, particularly among younger age groups. The study found that the prevalence of e-cigarette use declined from 13.7% in 2016 to 11.3% in 2018.
A study from California Polytechnic State University finds that offshore winds in the Central Coast increase when demand is greatest, making them an ideal candidate to fill the gap left by solar and on-shore wind energy production. The study suggests that offshore wind energy could play a crucial role in meeting California's ambitious ...
Researchers have discovered deep seabed channels beneath Thwaites Glacier in West Antarctica that may be the pathway for warm ocean water to melt the underside of the ice. The findings suggest that these channels could play a critical role in contributing to future global sea level rise.
A commentary by Dr. Tina Cheng and her daughter Alison Conca-Cheng highlights the impact of racism on Chinese American parents and children during COVID-19. They advocate for learning about racial bias history, teaching children about it, and addressing clinician biases to achieve health equity.
Researchers from Kaunas University of Technology and Vilnius University synthesized a bio-based resin for optical 3D printing that proved universal for both table-top and ultrafast laser printers. The novel material is made from renewable raw materials and can be used in industrial lines with minimal modifications.
Research suggests that frequent use of high-strength corticosteroid creams for skin lightening can lead to impaired cortisol function and adrenal insufficiency. Women using these products may be at risk of developing severe health problems, including extreme fatigue and even death.
Researchers investigated data collection and sharing practices of mobile apps played by preschool-age children, finding that many apps share personal data with third-party companies. The study also identified sociodemographic characteristics associated with app usage, highlighting the need for better data protection for young children.
A 13-million-year-old fossil unearthed in northern India belongs to a previously unknown genus and species, providing new evidence about the migration of great apes and lesser apes from Africa to Asia. The discovery pushes back the oldest known fossil record of gibbons by at least five million years.
Researchers found that households in states with Medicaid expansion increased purchase of diet soda and bottled water but showed no change in regular soda consumption. The study suggests a spillover effect of the program promoting healthier dietary choices.
A study found that clinicians affiliated with health systems achieved mean performance scores of 79 versus 60 for unaffiliated clinicians, receiving fewer payment penalties and more exceptional performance bonus payments. The study suggests that system-affiliation is associated with better performance under value-based payment programs.
Researchers at the University of Münster discovered glial cells' active role in controlling signal transduction speed and precision. The study found that glial cells form membrane processes between axons, preventing electrical coupling and ensuring accurate neuronal signaling.
Researchers analyzed 1,903 RNA-seq datasets from 182 projects to reveal a complex history of gene family trees, allowing them to study the evolutionary dynamics of gene expression patterns. Gene duplication plays a key role in expression pattern shifts, and preadaptive propensities exist for genes to be utilized in other organs.
Capmatinib shows high response rate (68%) in first-line treatment for NSCLC patients with MET exon 14 skipping mutations. Patients with lower MET amplification levels have limited effectiveness with the drug.
A study found that lockdowns in Scotland had little impact on outdoor air pollution, with no decline in toxic fine particles despite a 65% reduction in vehicles on the road. Instead, people may be at greater risk from air pollution in their own homes due to increased indoor exposure.
A new study suggests that focal high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) ablation is an effective alternative to surgery or radiation for treating prostate cancer. The procedure carries a low risk of complication and helps preserve quality of life, with no significant decrease in sexual function or urinary incontinence.
Researchers have developed a method to recharge N95 masks, restoring their 95% filtration efficiency and enabling smart masks. The technique exploits electrostatics-based materials, allowing for easy charge replenishment using a battery or washing machine, making it suitable for various air filtration applications.
A program using mail-in stool samples is shown to be an effective and cost-effective alternative to in-person colonoscopies for detecting colon cancer. The study identified nine best practices for implementing such programs, including patient navigation and high-quality testing kits.
A study found that administering ghrelin to older mice helped restore muscle mass and strength, suggesting a potential new treatment strategy. Unacylated ghrelin (UnAG) was shown to preserve muscle function and reduce the risk of age-related sarcopenia without causing weight gain.
Researchers at Rutgers University are exploring the link between uncontrolled inflammation and microglial cells in the brain, aiming to develop new therapies for neurodegenerative diseases. The team is designing nanomedicines that can target microglia to tamp down inflammation and protect neurons.
Research reveals that Type 2 diabetes affects brain function in older women, leading to sensory and motor deficits. A unique fNIRS technique detects decreased oxygenated blood use in the brain, suggesting underlying mechanisms such as muscle changes and cortical dysfunction.
A study by University of Utah Health researchers found that Black essential workers are disproportionately affected by COVID-19 due to their occupations, which increase their risk of exposure to the virus. This disparity is attributed to racial disparities in job classifications and access to healthcare resources.
A study found that nearly 16% of LGBT adults in California own a gun or live with one, often for protection. This increases their likelihood of victimization, including suicide. The research highlights the need for unique gun violence prevention strategies targeting the LGBT community.
Researchers presented new findings on chemosensation, including understanding odors through synthetic smells, the evolutionary mechanism of olfaction, and decreased sense of smell leading to depression. The symposium aimed to foster research and understanding of the chemical senses in humans and animals.
Researchers have found that specific DNA variants can affect the response to interferon-alpha-based treatments, leading to personalized therapy options. The discovery may improve treatment outcomes for patients with polycythaemia vera, a rare chronic malignant blood disease.
Research suggests that growth-restricted fetuses metabolize drugs differently due to reduced enzyme efficiency, putting them at increased risk of long-term health consequences. The 'one size fits all' approach to medication dosing during pregnancy may not be effective for all women and their babies.
The Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) has been extended with a simple method to impute missing verbal component scores. Using a distribution of verbal scores for each combination of eye and motor scores, clinicians can now easily determine the GCS sum score when verbal data is missing, aiding in clinical decision-making and patient outcomes.
Professor Teja Tscharntke, a renowned agroecologist at the University of Göttingen, has received the prestigious Marsh Award for his groundbreaking research on biodiversity and ecosystem services. His work focuses on understanding how landscape structure affects local biodiversity and pollination processes.