Researchers in Peru have estimated the population density of spectacled bears and identified an unknown hotspot, revealing over 10 bears per 100 square kilometers. The team also observed the first 'golden' bear with nearly golden fur, sparking further investigation into its unusual characteristics.
A survey of mostly African American adults found that vaccine hesitancy was greatest among those aged 18-29, with COVID-related housing insecurity increasing the odds by sevenfold. Younger individuals and those experiencing housing insecurity were more likely to be resistant to vaccination.
Research on rats suggests that aerosols from a range of vaping devices impair blood vessel function, similar to traditional cigarette smoke. The study found that even newer, coil-less ultrasonic vaping devices can have adverse effects on vascular health.
Researchers have identified a new potential treatment for neuroblastoma by targeting the ALT mechanism, which is responsible for chemotherapy resistance. The study found that activating ATM kinase at telomeres promotes chemotherapy resistance in ALT neuroblastoma and suggests a cancer-specific approach to treating this disease.
Researchers developed predictive models to estimate yogurt spoilage caused by yeast, including the effect of bioprotective cultures. The models were validated with actual data from a European dairy and can help yogurt producers make informed decisions to reduce economic losses due to food waste.
Researchers have created the smallest microsupercapacitors to date, which can function in artificial blood vessels and provide an energy source for tiny sensor systems. The biosupercapacitor has a volume of 0.001 mm3 and delivers up to 1.6 V supply voltage.
Researchers from Harvard University find that the earliest tetrapods acquired new adaptive traits at fast rates of anatomical evolution, but species diversification was slow initially. The study suggests a decoupling between evolutionary rates and species diversity, with a delay in colonization of land and diversification into new niches.
Researchers at Karolinska Institutet have identified eight primary factors that increase the risk of upper gastrointestinal bleeding after heart attack. The study, published in European Heart Journal - Cardiovascular Pharmacotherapy, found that smoking, blood pressure, and blood glucose are among the new predictors.
UMass Lowell is part of a nationwide program to evaluate rapid COVID-19 diagnostic methods. Researchers will assess the reliability and sensitivity of new products using clinical trials and community testing sites.
Researchers from Osaka University identified SPATA33 as a key regulator of sperm motility, which will aid in developing fast-acting male contraceptives. The study also clarified the mechanism by which SPATA33 controls sperm motility, shedding light on the cause of male infertility.
Researchers developed a new phosphorescent material inspired by wood's natural ability to faintly glow, using lignin trapped within a 3D polymer network. The material glows visibly for around one second and has potential applications in medical imaging, optical sensing, and textile industry.
Princeton University researchers have created the world's smallest mechanically interlocked biological structure, a deceptively simple two-ring chain made from tiny strands of amino acids. The study demonstrates that these structures can toggle between at least two shapes, laying the groundwork for a biomolecular switch.
Researchers conducted focus groups with stakeholders to identify safety measures and public health messaging that reduce the spread of COVID-19. Participants emphasized the need for transparent messaging, regulations, and enforcement of precautions to promote community safety and comfort.
Researchers at Case Western Reserve University have successfully imaged lethal prions using cryo-electron microscopy, providing atomic-level data on their structure and assembly. This breakthrough offers a new premise for understanding and targeting these currently untreatable diseases.
Researchers captured footage of a tortoise attacking and killing a tern chick on Frégate Island. The tortoise approached the chick with its jaws open, suggesting it was an experienced hunter. This unusual behavior challenges previous assumptions about tortoises' diets and hunting habits.
Bassam Haddad at George Mason University has received a $850,000 grant from the Carnegie Corporation of New York to promote public scholarship on the Arab world and broader region. The project aims to strengthen networks, research, publishing, and public profiles of Arab scholars.
Researchers at TU Wien developed a model to assess the impact of heavy rainfall and flooding on water quality in riverine floodplains, which are essential for drinking water supplies. The model aims to reduce faecal contaminants from human and animal waste, ensuring safe extraction of drinking water.
Researchers at the University of Michigan used machine learning to predict how metal alloy compositions affect electronic structures, linking fingerprints to material performance. The model simplifies density of states into two principal components, capturing correlations between composition and reactivity.
Researchers found a spike in prescription opioid and anti-anxiety sedative consumption, while illicit drug use plummeted during the early pandemic. The study used wastewater analysis to track community-wide habits and anxiety levels.
Researchers investigated sarpogrelate, an approved antiplatelet medication, for its potential to treat heart failure. Sarpogrelate suppressed cardiomyocyte hypertrophy and the development of heart failure in mice, suggesting it may be an effective low-cost agent for heart failure therapy.
A Stanford University study suggests that wildfire smoke exposure during pregnancy increases the risk of preterm birth, with as many as 7,000 extra births attributed to this factor between 2007 and 2012. The research highlights the need for investment in prescribed burns, mechanical thinning, or other efforts to reduce extreme wildfires.
A study published in Natural Hazards and Earth System Sciences analyzed tree rings from old-growth Douglas-firs on the Oregon Coast, revealing reduced growth following the 9.0 earthquake and subsequent tsunami in 1700. The findings confirm modeling of the quake's reach and provide insight into the impact of tsunamis on trees.
A new compact system enables real-time, in-line 3D inspection of surfaces with micron-scale precision, enhancing quality control in industrial production. The system combines a fast steering mirror and high precision 1D confocal chromatic sensor to create a compact and lightweight measurement tool weighing just 300 grams.
Researchers found no negative impact on families during the infant's first year of life after genome sequencing, even if genetic risk or carrier status were revealed. The study showed lower self- and partner-blame in families with sequencing information, suggesting it provided some degree of peace of mind.
A new study by Tufts University researchers identifies a high risk of forced labor in US fruits and vegetables, with most food-country combinations coded as high risk. The study's findings highlight the need for policymakers, farmers, and food companies to address systemic issues in food supply chains.
Managing 30% of land for conservation could safeguard 70% of terrestrial plant and vertebrate animal species while conserving over 62% of the world's above-ground vulnerable carbon. The study also suggests this approach could safeguard 68% of all clean water resources.
A recent study found that introducing new airline routes leads to a 7.3% increase in kidneys sent to transplant centers across the US, while also reducing the discard rate of kidneys. This improved transportation infrastructure facilitates broader organ sharing and can help match supply and demand.
A new preclinical study validates the spleen's role in cardiac healing and suggests targeting S1P as a potential treatment for heart failure. The study discovered interactions between S1P and the heart during transition from acute to chronic heart failure.
Researchers found Prozac reduces lipid concentrations in monkey brains, linked to potential side effects in young patients. The study suggests dietary changes may alleviate adverse effects by influencing lipid synthesis.
Research of over 18,000 mother and child pairs found that maternal obesity was associated with a heightened risk of bowel cancer in adulthood. Conditions in the womb may be key risk factors for the disease, which is expected to increase globally due to rising rates among younger adults.
Researchers at Virginia Tech have developed a scalable method to harvest exosomes from unpasteurized cow's milk, enabling the production of purified exosomes for oral drug delivery. The new protocol advances pharmaceutical applications for fragile drugs and opens up a wide range of clinical applications.
A new study from Monash University has identified RNA released from damaged cells as a signal to initiate repair in the nervous system. The research found that blocking or enhancing this recruitment of immature neurons halted or sped up neural circuit recovery, demonstrating their power in boosting neural repair.
Researchers discovered false optical activity in Raman spectroscopic analysis of vitamin B12 and its derivatives, leading to misinterpretations of data. The phenomenon was attributed to circular dichroism and can be computationally modeled or adapted to measurement methods.
A new research project by the University of South Australia aims to identify ways for people to grow and sustain meaningful connections as they age. Older adults participating in environmental citizen science projects, such as weekly guided nature walks and wildlife photography, may experience improved physical activity, health, and we...
Researchers found that people who believe leisure is wasteful report poorer mental health outcomes, including lower happiness and higher levels of depression, anxiety, and stress. In contrast, those who view leisure as having productive value enjoy activities more.
Scientists at Nara Institute of Science and Technology create a projected touchscreen system using just one camera and projector, eliminating the need for additional detectors. The system uses slope disparity gating to capture touch data with high efficiency, enabling portable projection systems for large interactive displays.
Researchers found that Antrodia salmonea induces apoptosis and enhances cytoprotective autophagy in colon cancer cells, suggesting a potential treatment for colon cancer. The study reveals that AS-induced apoptosis and autophagy are mediated by reactive oxygen species.
A new digital study has found that Tyrannosaurus rex's jaw had nerve sensors enabling it to better detect and eat its prey. The researchers used computed tomography to analyze the distribution of neurovascular canals in a fossil mandible, revealing complex branching patterns similar to those of modern-day crocodiles and birds.
Researchers developed a new memory device that uses perovskite to store and visually transmit data, achieving parallel and synchronous reading of data through electrical and optical methods. The device has the potential for numerous applications in next-generation technologies.
A new study predicts that the population of San Nicolas Island foxes will remain at a low risk of extinction due to their isolated habitat and relatively dry environmental conditions. The researchers suggest strategies such as biosecurity, restoration of habitats, and minimizing human-wildlife conflict to increase the foxes' resilience...
A study found that combined drinking and smoking after the first trimester may be associated with a significantly increased risk of late stillbirth. The observational study suggests that this exposure may be particularly concerning for women who do not have pre-existing health conditions.
Researchers from Okayama University conducted a randomized trial to assess the benefits of interventions for early cancer screening in patients with schizophrenia. The study found that 47.1% of counseled patients underwent colorectal cancer screening, compared to 11.8% of those receiving only usual treatment.
Researchers found that consuming pecans daily or substituting them for similar calories in the diet improved total cholesterol, triglyceride, and LDL cholesterol levels. The study suggests a more sustainable approach to lowering cholesterol and reducing coronary artery disease risk.
Researchers discover that gastrin-releasing peptide (GRP) is widely conserved among vertebrates, but the NMB/bombesin system has diversified in some lineages. GRP has evolved independently from a single ancestral homologue and plays a role in regulating energy intake and expenditure in both amphibians and mammals.
Researchers from Tokyo University of Science developed a self-powered diaper sensor that monitors urine sugar levels, providing an alternative biomarker for blood sugar monitoring. The sensor uses a biofuel cell powered by glucose in the urine, detecting sugar levels within 1 second and simplifying caretaking tasks.
A study published in Developmental Cell reveals that lagging chromosomes contribute to an uneven chromosomal distribution, leading to aneuploidy and infertility. Researchers propose artificially slowing down cell division to limit aneuploidy, offering a potential solution for improving egg quality in older patients.
Researchers at Tokyo Institute of Technology developed a tunable neural network framework that achieves high accuracy and efficiency for sparse CNNs. The new architecture employs a Cartesian-product MAC array and pipelined activation aligners to enable dense computing of sparse convolution, resulting in better resource utilization.
A new study published in Hypertension Journal Report found that flavonoid-rich foods, including berries and wine, can lower blood pressure by modulating the gut microbiome. The study of 904 adults suggested that increasing flavonoid intake may be a valuable strategy for preventing hypertension.
Scientists at Ehime University successfully measured the longitudinal and shear velocities of MgSiO3 majorite garnet up to 18 GPa and 2000 K. The results suggest that elastic softening occurs in mantle garnets with increasing pressure, potentially affecting subducted slab speeds.
A team of researchers has created a new algorithm that determines the most efficient route for robots to navigate complex spaces. The RBF-Galerkin method combines two existing approaches to find the optimal solution, surpassing other methods in terms of cost and time efficiency.
Researchers analyzed social media connections of over 4 million users across 10 countries, finding common characteristics and behaviors, including follow ratios and profile length. These findings can help tailor data analysis to cultural differences, improving marketing and information sharing.
Researchers at RMIT University have discovered a Teflon-like molecule on the womb's surface that decreases at a certain point in the menstrual cycle, opening the 'golden window' for pregnancy success. This finding could lead to improved IVF success rates and potentially treat underlying causes of infertility.
A modelling study published in BMJ Open estimates that the COVID-19 pandemic led to an additional 267,208 infant deaths in low- and middle-income countries, a 7% increase over expected numbers. The economic downturn caused by the pandemic exacerbated mortality among vulnerable groups.
A Princeton University-led research team discovered that water blisters on the surface of Greenland's high-elevation ice sheet can estimate transmissivity, a property characterizing the efficiency of water networks between ice and bedrock. The study found that transmissivity can increase by two orders of magnitude during the summer mel...
A multidisciplinary team of scientists studied the elephant trunk's kinematic versatility, revealing a toolkit of 20 basic movements that combine to produce complex behaviors. The researchers identified a mathematical law governing the trunk's velocity, similar to human hand-drawing movements.
A team of scientists led by Assistant Professor Lae-Hyeon Cho identified a single mutation in the gene that codes for cytidine triphosphate synthase (CTPS), an enzyme crucial for early endosperm development. The study showed that overexpressing CTPS in genetically modified rice plants results in a larger endosperm, opening up opportuni...
Researchers found that taxi drivers who smoked cigarettes were more likely to cheat riders after the federal excise tax on cigarettes was raised. This spillover effect occurs when targeted individuals defraud others due to perceived unfairness and reduced buying power.
A new study by UC San Diego researchers finds that moving local elections to on-cycle races increases voter turnout and makes the electorate more representative of the population, particularly in terms of race, age, class, and partisanship. The study analyzed California elections over an eight-year period and found significant effects ...
A study found that 95% of fungal species on Earth remain undescribed, leading to inconsistent regulations and potential health risks. The researchers tested 16 food products labeled as containing 'wild mushrooms' and discovered most consisted of cultivated species, including poisonous varieties.
Researchers found biochemical changes in ME patients' blood, supporting the theory that ME is linked to impaired cellular energy supply. The study identified distinct metabolic signatures and adaptations among patients, which may relate to disease severity.
Researchers have developed a common workflow interface for various quantum codes, enabling accurate predictions of system properties and promoting the wider use of density-functional theory. The interface allows users to optimize structures using any code without defining parameters, providing reusable results.
Isaac Hilton is using non-integrating episomal DNA viruses to create a new platform technology for cell and gene therapies. He aims to hijack these viruses to safely program medicinal functions in human cells.
A University of Surrey undergraduate has developed a method to suppress hot-carrier effects in devices, leading to more reliable performance and increased power efficiency. This breakthrough uses a multimodal transistor architecture, which could enable high-performance amplifiers for environmental and biological sensor applications.
Wayne State University researcher Yaoxian Huang received $332,689 for a three-year research study to improve understanding of reactive nitrogen from snowpack and transportation. The project aims to provide scientific support for air quality management and promote air quality education for future generations.
A new study estimates the intensity and frequency of extreme novel pandemics, finding that large pandemics like COVID-19 are relatively likely due to growing risks. The study suggests that a pandemic similar in scale to COVID-19 is likely within 59 years, highlighting the need for adjusted perceptions of pandemic risks.
Researchers at Tohoku University have developed liquid-sulfur/sulfide composite cathodes enabling high-rate magnesium batteries. The material shows high capacity, potential, cyclability, and rate capability, with a discharge capacity of ~900 mAh/g and stable performance for over 50 cycles.
The COVID-19 pandemic led to an increase in the proportion of community-dwelling homebound adults aged 70 or older in the US, particularly among Black non-Hispanic and Hispanic/Latino individuals. Compliance with social distancing measures is believed to be a key factor contributing to this trend.
Researchers at UC San Diego developed a system that splits a single millimeter wave beam into multiple paths to improve reliability and throughput. The technology achieved high speeds of up to 800 Mbps with 100% reliability, even in outdoor tests over distances of 262 feet.
Researchers identify novel mechanism of formation of procoagulant platelets activated by S100 A8/A9 binding to the GPIbα receptor, a previously unknown target for anti-coagulant therapies. This discovery may lead to new treatments and prevention strategies for inflammatory and thrombotic diseases.
Researchers investigated COVID-19 transmission dynamics among close contacts of index patients, finding timing of exposure impacts disease development. The study also found severity of the index case is associated with clinical presentation in close contacts who develop COVID-19.
Researchers will examine mentorship, leadership development, and career opportunities beyond academia to cultivate physics identity and belonging for women in physics. The project aims to identify ways to keep more women in physics and address the male-dominated field.
A mathematical model developed by researchers at the University of Cambridge can predict the optimum exercise regime for building muscle. The model takes into account individual physiology and optimizes exercise regimes based on user input, promising to maximize athletes' potential.
Researchers discovered that noncoding RNA derived from pericentromeric repetitive sequences upregulates SASP-like inflammatory gene expression by disturbing chromatin interactions. hSATII RNA is highly detectable in cancer cells and supports tumor development via small EVs, highlighting a new role in age-related pathologies.
Trees continue to form reserves even during long periods of starvation, contrary to the assumption that they only form when photosynthetic conditions are favorable. As CO2 starvation progresses, trees stabilize their reserve levels and divert resources to storage, allowing them to survive climate extremes.
Scientists have developed novel gas sensors with improved detection sensitivity and durability by combining organic and inorganic materials. The hybrid sensors boast high durability and high sensitivity, making them suitable for portable gas sensing applications.
A new study provides insight into where chimpanzees avoided climate instability during glacial and interglacial periods in Africa over the past 120,000 years. The findings help increase understanding of how climate change impacts biodiversity and how to mitigate predicted biodiversity loss.
Researchers at Columbia University School of Engineering and Applied Science have developed a new technique to structure chaotic bubbles, enabling more efficient separation of useful metals from useless particles. This method uses vibrations to control the motion of bubbles, leading to reduced energy and water usage in mining.
Researchers at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory have created a new mathematical algorithm to decipher the rotational dynamics of twisting particles in complex systems. By analyzing X-ray scattering patterns, they can gain insights into the function and properties of materials.
A six-country study found that awake prone positioning significantly reduced the need for mechanical ventilation in critically ill COVID-19 patients. The intervention improved blood oxygen levels and lung function by matching blood flow and ventilation.
A North Carolina State University panel of experts assesses AV deployment risks and benefits, predicting substantial benefits if well-regulated. The study's findings suggest regulations could limit urban use of AVs and commercial fleet ownership, reducing risk and increasing benefits.
The Telehealth Service Implementation Model (TSIM) offers a comprehensive approach to developing and sustaining successful telehealth programs. TSIM addresses key challenges such as provider and patient engagement, technical, financial, regulatory, and administrative burdens.
A new spontaneous mouse model, McH-lpr-RA1, has been developed to study Sjögren's syndrome, an autoimmune disease affecting the tear system and salivary glands. The model exhibits autoimmune inflammation in the salivary gland tissue and blood vessels, destruction of the salivary gland structure, and inhibited salivary secretomotor system.
A USC-led study has mapped the developmental blueprint of human kidneys, shedding light on how cells interact to form filtering units. The research provides a foundation for creating synthetic mini kidneys and could lead to new treatments for kidney diseases.
A recent study at a large Australian hospital found nearly 4 out of 10 patient transports to be marred by incidents, including limb entrapment, collisions, and issues with infusion pumps. Patient agitation was also a common factor in these mishaps, highlighting the need for improved transport training and preparation.
The APPLI study aims to assess the perceptions and preferences of people living with HIV on long-acting injectable antiretroviral therapies. The study will explore how to support adherence and integrate these therapies into Ryan White HIV care settings, potentially improving health outcomes for those struggling with daily oral medicati...
West Virginia University engineers are working on a $750,000 award from NASA to improve data transfer efficiency during space exploration. The team is developing AI-based algorithms that can compress data while retaining maximum information content, which could enable more efficient NASA missions and sustain Earth and solar observations.
The Milken Institute has released a roadmap to increase autoantibody screening for Type 1 Diabetes, with the support of The Leona M. and Harry B. Helmsley Charitable Trust. The goal is to ensure effective screening, which can diagnose T1D early, prevent life-threatening conditions like diabetic ketoacidosis, and develop therapeutics.
Scientists discovered that volcanic arcs, including chains like the Andes and Cascades, played a crucial role in regulating atmospheric CO2 levels over the past 400 million years. This natural feedback mechanism helped maintain a stable climate, but recent human-driven emissions have disrupted this balance.
A Purdue University study suggests that the eastern half of the US is a hotspot for severe thunderstorms due to high terrain, while the Gulf of Mexico plays a relatively weak role. Removing the Gulf would shift storm patterns eastward into Illinois and reduce them over southern Texas.
Researchers identified a vulnerability in developmental signaling pathways that can drive pediatric low-grade glioma formation. Targeted treatment prevents tumor formation, long before irreversible damage to the optic nerve can cause permanent vision loss.
A new study from University of California - San Diego suggests that protein deposits in the retina and brain may be a sign of Alzheimer's disease risk. Retinal imaging may potentially serve as an early biomarker for detecting AD risk, offering a non-invasive alternative to traditional brain scans.
Research from UBC and HKU Earth scientists reveals that massive volcanism played a key role in triggering oceanic anoxia, with CO2-induced environmental warming creating 'dead zones' over short timescales. The findings provide important insights into the sensitivity of the Earth system to global biogeochemical cycles and marine biology.
Researchers at UCLA developed brain organoids that mimic human brain structure and function, allowing for the study of neurological disorders like Rett syndrome. The organoids showed organized waves of activity similar to those found in living brains and responded to treatment with an experimental drug.
Lee Solomon and his team are developing a blood substitute made from a novel peptide material that binds heme B, promoting stronger oxygen binding. The research aims to create a next-generation blood substitute to help Virginians suffering from hemorrhage-inducing injuries.
Researchers reverse lung fibrosis in a mouse model using Bcl-2 inhibitor ABT-199, suggesting a novel therapeutic target to treat idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. The study finds that monocyte-derived macrophages play a key role in fibrosis progression and that targeting the Cpt1a-Bcl-2 interaction modulates apoptosis resistance.
The HIPGEN study, a multinational trial, investigates the efficacy and safety of allogeneic placenta-expanded adherent stromal cells to improve recovery after hip fracture arthroplasty. The trial aims to combat immobility and associated problems by strengthening periarticular hip musculature.
Researchers at Osaka City University have successfully stored electricity using ferromagnetic resonance (FMR) in ultra-thin magnetic films. The team found that two alloys, Ni80Fe20 and Co50Fe50, generated varying amounts of electricity under FMR, with Co50Fe50 showing a steady increase in energy storage over time.
Researchers have identified a novel genetic marker, rs139185008, that distinguishes C9orf72 repeat expansion carriers from non-carriers in large population-based cohorts. This SNP is strongly associated with patients having a clinical diagnosis of FTLD and motor neuron disease ALS.
A Swedish study found that 43% of children with new-onset type 1 diabetes did not receive hospital treatment on the same day as primary care contact. Delayed care can lead to life-threatening conditions like diabetic ketoacidosis. Improved awareness and rapid treatment are crucial for preventing complications.
Researchers at Caltech studied ant digging habits and uncovered mechanisms guiding their tunnel construction. Ants use efficient techniques to minimize work, digging straight tunnels along cup edges, and sensing force chains to avoid digging there.
A study on Homo floresiensis found its bite could exert around 1300 Newtons of force, comparable to modern humans and some extinct cousins. This suggests that the Hobbit might have been at greater risk of facial bone strain or dislocation when biting hard foods.
Researchers analyzed 8 popular plant-based burgers and found that some closely mimic the odor of real beef when cooking. The Beyond Burger from Beyond Meat came closest to replicating the hamburger aroma, but still differed significantly.
A new hydrogel platform has been developed to alleviate inflammation in rheumatoid arthritis by selectively removing nitric oxide. The hydrogel, when injected into the affected area, collects and eliminates excessive NO, reducing inflammation and alleviating symptoms.
A randomized trial found that a shorter course of rifapentine-isoniazid therapy resulted in significantly higher treatment completion rates compared to a longer daily course. The findings suggest that this regimens can be more effective for preventing tuberculosis disease in individuals with HIV, particularly in high-transmission areas.
Scientists detected electronic and optical interlayer resonances in bilayer graphene by twisting one layer 30 degrees, resulting in increased interlayer spacing that influences electron motion. This understanding could inform the design of future quantum technologies for more powerful computing and secure communication.
Astronomers Amir Siraj and Avi Loeb found that interstellar objects outnumber objects in our solar system's Oort Cloud. This discovery suggests that there could be substantially more visitors from other star systems.
A longitudinal study of nearly 400,000 employees from Japanese firms over 12 years found that merit-based systems increased the gender bonus gap, but not total annual earnings. The research challenges the idea that merit-based practices reduce gender inequality.
Researchers found that no-till production farmers can reduce herbicide use by implementing integrated weed-management practices, such as high-residue cultivation and seeding companion crops. Despite increased weed pressure, crop yields and profits were not significantly affected.