A record-high amount of Arctic freshwater is expected to flow into the Labrador Sea, impacting local marine environments and global ocean currents. The freshwater, which has increased by 40% over the past two decades, will travel through the Canadian Archipelago rather than traditional marine passageways.
Researchers developed a machine learning-powered platform, OC-SMART, to process ocean color in satellite images, solving a 30-year-old problem in retrieving data from coastal regions and open ocean areas. The tool provides useful data on chlorophyll concentrations and phytoplankton presence, helping to understand the ocean's state.
The study documents the discovery of Purgatorius fossils, which are estimated to be 65.9 million years old, providing insight into primates' evolution and diversification after the Cretaceous-Paleogene extinction event. The findings suggest that primates likely emerged by the Late Cretaceous period and lived alongside large dinosaurs.
Researchers developed a way to measure levels of specific carbon nanotubes in plant tissues using programmed thermal analysis. This method can detect small amounts of carbon nanotubes in leaves, stems, and roots, providing crucial insights into their environmental fate and potential human exposure.
Researchers have mapped 300 proteins that regulate cell division, a crucial step in cancer development, offering hope for tailored cancer treatments. The study provides new insights into cell-to-cell variation and the human cell cycle, with the data now available in the Human Protein Atlas.
Researchers at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital have discovered a mechanism that tumors use to switch on protective regulatory T cells, raising the potential for drug treatments that render tumors more vulnerable to cancer immunotherapy. The researchers showed that blocking tumor-associated regulatory T cell activity eliminated tu...
In a groundbreaking 68-week study, semaglutide combined with intensive behavioral therapy resulted in an average weight loss of 16% for participants, exceeding one-third who lost 20% or more of their baseline weight. The treatment also showed significant improvements in cardiometabolic risk factors and marked metabolic benefits.
Germany's Forschungszentrum Jülich and semiconductor manufacturer Infineon join forces to develop a semiconductor-based quantum processor using 'shuttling' of electrons. The QUASAR project aims to scale up quantum computing for industrial production.
Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center identified a mechanism by which exercise strengthens bones and immune function. Movement-induced stimulation creates a specialized environment in the bone marrow that promotes the formation of new bone cells and immune cells.
Astronomers have detected streams of cold gas flowing through the dark matter halo of an early massive galaxy, supplying materials for star formation. The discovery provides direct evidence for cosmic filaments ferrying cold gas to galaxies during the early universe.
Researchers have developed an immune tolerance platform called ImmTORTM to overcome challenges in gene therapy, including immunogenicity and durability. The addition of ImmTOR nanoparticles to AAV vectors has shown potential to enhance efficacy, safety, and durability by mediating more efficient transgene expression.
A recent study highlights the alarming impact of Arctic sea ice loss on polar bears and narwhals. The mammals face severe challenges due to the loss of their primary food source and increased energy expenditure, leading to starvation and vulnerability to predators.
Researchers at Tohoku University discovered that neuronal and glial circuits form a loosely coupled super-network within the brain. Activation of metabotropic glutamate receptors in neurons can be influenced by the state of glial cells, suggesting potential for artificial control to enhance memory function.
A team of researchers led by Simon Fraser University paleontologist Bruce Archibald has discovered a major new insect group closely related to damselflies and dragonflies. The distinctive shape of the insect's non-protruding, rounded eyes is the defining feature of Cephalozygoptera, which lived among dinosaurs in the Cretaceous age.
Researchers discovered a blood biomarker that predicts kidney transplant rejection with a lead time of about eight months. The biomarker suggests using an existing medication to right the course of long-term recovery and prevent permanent damage.
Research suggests atheists prioritize protecting vulnerable individuals over promoting group cohesion, while theists emphasize group loyalty and authority respect. Atheists align with theists on moral concerns like fairness and epistemically rational beliefs.
A survey of US college students found that one in three students may be viewing digital groups sharing nude or semi-nude photos without consent. The study suggests that university sexual violence prevention education should include discussions on these sites to address objectifying attitudes and justify sexual violence.
Researchers used stem cell-derived organoids to study SARS-CoV-2 interaction with organs. Lung organoids responded more to the virus than brain organoids, producing different molecules and outcomes.
Researchers found that emphasizing aesthetic flaws via 'ugly' labeling increases the purchase of unattractive produce, leading to reduced food waste. The study's findings suggest that consumers may reevaluate their reliance on visual appearance, making them more likely to buy unattractive produce.
Researchers at Purdue University have developed tissue-engineered components to support larynx reconstruction after cancer or trauma. The implants utilize customized engineered tissue replacements with dynamic muscle component fabricated from patient's own cells.
Researchers have developed a flexible X-ray sensor using nanocrystals that can capture high-resolution images of curved 3D objects. The sensor uses persistent radioluminescence to emit light after exposure to X-rays, enabling the detection of defects in electronics and examination of valuable artworks.
Among Ecuador's Shuar people, market integration is linked to higher levels of disgust sensitivity and lower infection rates. Disgust helps regulate exposure to pathogens and varies across households and communities.
A study of private insurance claims data found nearly half of women with uncomplicated urinary tract infections received the wrong antibiotics and three-quarters received prescriptions for longer than necessary. Rural areas tend to have inappropriately long treatment durations, which can lead to adverse events and antibiotic resistance.
A new study shows that people's writing styles reflect the norms of the social group they belong to. Researchers analyzed online forum posts from parents and feminists to demonstrate their method, finding an accuracy of 70% in detecting which group identity was active. This discovery has implications for understanding how people switch...
A team of scientists found that sulfur metabolism plays a crucial role in the transition from single-celled to multicellular organisms. By manipulating sulfur levels, they were able to induce or prevent the formation of multicellular aggregates in the slime mold Dictyostelium discoideum. This discovery has significant implications for ...
A new strain of the coronavirus in Southern California, CAL.20C, is rapidly spreading across the country and around the world, accounting for nearly half of current COVID-19 cases in the region. The strain has been detected in 19 US states and six foreign countries, suggesting travelers are carrying it to these destinations.
A newly translated journal from a 17th-century German barber-surgeon reveals the complexities of the Atlantic slave trade. Through his accounts, historians gain insight into the quotidian brutality and banality of evil in the trade.
Nitrogen-bearing diamond crystals have been shown to produce high-quality X-ray beams due to their superior thermal conductivity and coefficient of expansion. Despite historical concerns over their quality, researchers from BFU successfully manufactured plates with sufficient defect-free areas using a unique device.
UT Southwestern researchers have identified nine serum proteins in blood that strongly predict autism spectrum disorder (ASD) using machine learning tools. These biomarkers could enable earlier diagnosis and prompt therapeutic support, potentially improving quality of life for children with ASD.
The Novo Nordisk Network for Healthy Populations will focus on new ways to support healthier urban populations and develop interventions to prevent the unsustainable rise of type 2 diabetes. The network aims to find solutions that address the root cause of chronic diseases and bring together existing expertise from across the University.
The American Chemical Society highlights the achievements of Black scientists in chemistry and chemical engineering, including drug discovery, biomedical engineering, and sustainable energy. The special issue showcases their work and calls for greater recognition and inclusion in the science enterprise.
Sanfilippo syndrome is a rare genetic disorder that causes childhood dementia and premature death. Researchers are developing a new combination therapy using gene therapy and stem cells to restore metabolic defects in brain cells.
Researchers at Duke University are developing new super-hard materials using chaotic atomic structures, which can enhance stability and strength in a wide range of applications. The team aims to create a material that can solve the friction stir welding problem with steel, revolutionizing ship construction and defense equipment.
A trial in Mumbai found that regular clinical breast examination led to earlier diagnosis and reduced deaths from breast cancer, especially among women aged 50 and older. The study suggests that implementation of population screening by trained health workers is feasible in low and middle income countries.
Researchers create synthetic biomaterials mimicking tendon structure and strength through freeze-casting and salting-out processes. The new hydrogels show promise for temporary wound closure, long-term tissue replacement, and wearable medical device coatings.
A new surgical technique, Encephaloduroarteriosynangiosis (EDAS), demonstrates reduced recurrent stroke rates from 37% to 10.7%. The EDAS procedure reroutes arteries to segments at risk of stroke, mimicking the process of 'gardening' for blood flow.
A link between depression and stomach ulcers has been confirmed in the world's largest study of genetic factors in peptic ulcer disease, involving nearly half a million people. Genetic variations associated with an increased risk of peptic ulcer disease have also been identified.
A University of Michigan study finds that groundwater depletion could significantly impact Indian agriculture, with potential losses of up to 20% in winter cropped acreage nationwide. The researchers estimate that even partial replacement with canal irrigation may not be enough to maintain current production levels.
A team of researchers from Harvard University has successfully evolved custom proteases that can target specific proteins with high selectivity, opening up new possibilities for neuroregeneration, growth hormone regulation, and cytokine storm treatment. The technology uses phage-assisted continuous evolution to generate bespoke protein...
A new study found that women who survived domestic violence are more vulnerable to elder abuse, with 6.4% reporting past experience and significantly poorer psychological wellbeing. This highlights the need for clinical monitoring and ongoing support for survivors as they age.
As of mid-January, over 60% of long-term care facility residents and staff received their first COVID-19 vaccine dose through the CDC's public-private partnership with CVS, Walgreens, and Managed Health Care Associates. The study highlights a significant increase in vaccination rates among vulnerable populations.
A study by University of Zurich researchers reveals that increasing lamin B1 levels in aging mice stem cell division improves, leading to increased new neurons. The findings offer hope for future therapies targeting neurogenesis in older individuals or those with degenerative diseases like Alzheimer's.
Comparative biologists develop strategies to predict climate change impacts on species and ecosystems, informing conservation policy. Physiological adaptations and interactions between animals and their environments are crucial for building policies to protect keystone and vulnerable species.
A new study published in the Journal of the Royal Society Interface suggests that reducing individual activity through social distancing is far superior in controlling the dissemination of Sars-CoV-2. The research found that limiting personal mobility through travel restrictions and similar tactics is effective only in the first phases...
A global study of over 137,000 people found that a diet high in poor quality carbohydrates increases the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and death. Those consuming diets with high glycemic index were 50% more likely to have cardiovascular events if they had a pre-existing heart condition.
Researchers discovered that Niemann-Pick type C disease is associated with neuroinflammation and impaired intracellular lipid transport, leading to the accumulation of lipids in the brain. The findings suggest a potential new approach for monitoring disease progression and response to therapy.
Researchers created a detailed brain map of C. elegans, uncovering modular structure and variation in neural circuits that complement core circuitry found across animals. The study's findings suggest the worm's brain processes information through layers, with convergence of different neural circuits enabling integration and coordination.
Radiologists at Massachusetts General Hospital have developed an approach to manage swollen lymph nodes on mammograms in women who have recently received COVID-19 vaccinations. The approach aims to reduce delays in vaccinations and breast cancer diagnoses while reassuring patients that the swelling is a normal response to vaccination.
The Frontera supercomputer has expanded its capabilities to accelerate life sciences research during the COVID-19 pandemic and support rapid responses to emergencies like hurricanes and earthquakes. The expansion adds nearly 400 server nodes, increasing compute time by nearly 3.5 million node hours annually.
A new study reveals that over one third of genetic variants associated with coronary artery disease regulate liver-specific genes involved in cholesterol metabolism. Researchers pinpoint the causal single nucleotide polymorphisms and target genes mediating the risk, expanding our understanding of the disease's mechanisms.
Scientists have mapped the structure of neuropil, a fundamental type of brain tissue organization, in C. elegans using innovative melding of network analysis and imaging strategies. The study revealed four layers with distinct domains for processing sensory information and motor behaviors, providing insights into how the brain integrat...
Multi-ethnic neighborhoods in England have grown from 0.5% to over 4% of all neighborhoods between 1991 and 2011, while retaining high diversity and stability rates. This contrasts with racially diverse neighborhoods in the U.S., which are often transitional.
A recent study found that MYCN overexpression leads to increased iron levels, which induce ferroptosis, a type of cell death. This vulnerability can be exploited by drugs blocking ROS elimination, making cancer cells susceptible to treatment. The researchers plan to test FDA-approved rheumatoid arthritis drugs in preclinical models.
The use of polymeric flame retardant PolyFR in eco-friendly foam insulation poses health risks and environmental concerns. Alternative insulation materials like mineral fibers can be used instead.
A new study by Yale Cancer Center found sex hormones and insulin growth factors are associated with recurrence risk of endometrial cancer. The findings suggest a possible new approach in the prevention and treatment of endometrial cancer recurrence, which is currently being evaluated in a multi-center trial.
Researchers found that older people correctly understood basic medication information in over 70% of cases. However, when physicians failed to discuss potential side effects, patients incorrectly assumed there were none for nearly half of their prescribed medications.
Two monoclonal antibodies targeting the MERS coronavirus spike protein showed promise in a phase 1 clinical trial, being well-tolerated and safe when administered to healthy adults. The study found the experimental antibodies reduced virus levels and tissue damage in lungs.
Scientists have identified tissue-resident memory-like Th17 cells (Trm17) as a key player in the development of hyperinflammation and lung injury in severe COVID-19. These cells produce inflammatory molecules like GM-CSF, which correlates with disease severity.
Researchers are examining how Amish and Mennonite communities are responding to COVID-19, including their social distancing practices and health misinformation. They are using community newspapers and local health data to track pandemic-related behaviors and identify factors driving misinformation.
Researchers have developed a new method to discover Weyl semimetals with S4 symmetry, allowing for high-throughput screening. The approach uses a novel topological invariant that can be calculated efficiently using the one-dimensional Wilson-loop method.