A newly published framework outlines steps for administering probiotics to wildlife, prioritizing native species, effective dosages, and delivery systems. The goal is to restore beneficial bacteria and protect key symbiotic relationships, while considering potential risks and side effects.
Researchers have identified a link between mutations in the FOCAD gene and an early onset form of liver cirrhosis in children. The study suggests that the FOCAD gene plays a critical role in maintaining liver health, particularly in children.
A new panda species, Agriarctos nikolovi, has been discovered in Bulgaria, which may have been Europe's last known giant panda. The fossilized teeth, found in the late 1970s, suggest that this ancient panda consumed a largely vegetarian diet, unlike modern pandas.
A large genomic study of snapper has identified three distinct oceanic snapper populations between Shark Bay and Ceduna in South Australia. The populations are genetically distinct and have unique geographical ranges, suggesting that snapper can make long-distance movements.
A recent study from Flinders University reveals that engaging with infants during crib-side visits is the biggest disincentive to parents' sexual frequency. Parents who spend more time with their infant at night report having sex less often.
Scientists create polymer bricks made from waste cooking oil and industrial byproducts, eliminating the need for mortar in traditional building methods. The new material's sulfur-sulfur bond produces a strong, sustainable construction material with potential to streamline construction.
Researchers warn that the new abortion decriminalisation laws in South Australia are hindered by a lack of GP training and registration, which may lead to unequal access to safe abortion services. The authors argue that GPs must be advised on how to implement the law effectively, particularly in rural areas where resources are scarce.
The Madrid Flight On Chip (MFOC) project has successfully implemented advanced technological products and introduced disruptive changes in the design and verification of complex space systems. The project, which ran for over three years, focused on Multi-Processor System on Chip (MPSoC) components and aimed to reduce testing costs.
Chinese researchers found that chemically modifying common table sugar can stabilize the zinc ion environment and prevent dendrite growth in aqueous zinc batteries. This method enhances mobility, protects the Zn anode from corrosion, and achieves stable Zn dendrite-free deposition.
A new DNA repair-kit successfully fixed genetic mutations causing Steroid Resistant Nephrotic Syndrome (SRNS) in patient-derived kidney cells. The kit, developed by University of Bristol scientists, uses a modified baculovirus to deliver larger DNA pieces and build them into human genomes.
A survey of 1,086 adults found that negative views towards harassing public health officials increased from November 2020 to July-August 2021. Higher earners and those with more education were more likely to hold such views.
A new study from Duke University suggests that consuming more fiber can lead to improved gut health, regardless of the specific supplement used. Participants who had been eating the least amount of fiber before the study showed the greatest benefit from supplements.
A study investigated total and out-of-pocket costs of genetic counseling among commercially insured adults with cancer, finding that these costs can significantly impact patient care. Factors contributing to higher costs were identified, highlighting the need for more affordable genetic testing options.
A new study by Boston University School of Medicine found that the unique shape of the frontal sinuses, used in forensic anthropology to identify human remains, is influenced by both ancestry and sex. The research analyzed over 300 CT images, revealing that when considering both factors together, they significantly affect sinus dimensions
A study found that exposure to urban greenness has unequal effects on men's and women's mental health, with women benefiting from walking and leisure activities but facing safety concerns. Researchers call for gendered equity in park planning to address these disparities.
A KAIST research team has discovered a new role for somatostatin, a protein-based neurotransmitter, in reducing the toxicity caused by Alzheimers disease. When somatostatin is met with copper and Aβ proteins, it attenuates the toxicity and agglomeration of metal-Aβ complexes.
A recent JAMA study found a positive association between high insulin dosage and cancer incidence among patients with type 1 diabetes. The study suggests that clinicians may need to balance cancer risk when treating patients on high insulin doses, with improving insulin sensitivity potentially being a preferred approach.
A new paper battery that can be activated by adding a drop of water has been developed, using salt and zinc to generate electricity. The battery's performance decreased over time due to the paper drying out, but it showed promise for low-power electronics.
Scientists at Tufts University found that varicella zoster virus (VZV) may activate herpes simplex virus (HSV-1), leading to inflammation and accumulation of Alzheimer's associated proteins in the brain. This suggests a new pathway to Alzheimer's disease.
A new energy plan developed by researchers at Kyushu University suggests a more sustainable future energy system that includes 61% renewable-based electricity. The plan, which prioritizes solar and wind power, exceeds current projections by 50%, with significant reductions in coal-based generation and nuclear power.
A new study at the University of Missouri found that prenatal opioid exposure can trigger long-term neurological or behavioral effects in children. The research suggests that opioids impact the developing fetus' gut microbiome, leading to changes in metabolic pathways and potentially affecting overall health and wellness.
Researchers created a novel tumor organoid system to examine the impact of bacterial metabolites on immune checkpoint blockage, a promising cancer treatment. The system showed that certain bacterial-released factors improved immune cell viability and increased treatment efficacy.
Researchers found that specific vocalizations, known as the 'hunting bark', recruit more group members to hunt and capture prey more effectively. Chimpanzees have been observed joining hunts after hearing these barks, increasing success rates.
The Institute for Emerging CORE Methods in Data Science (EnCORE) aims to transform the core aspects of data science, including complexity, optimization, responsible computing, and education and engagement. EnCORE will conduct interdisciplinary research, develop innovative tools, and engage students from K-12 to postdoctoral levels.
A new study by University of Bath psychologists found plant-based meat alternatives cause lower greenhouse gas emissions, require less agricultural land, and have better nutritional profiles compared to animal products. These findings support the use of plant-based products as a healthier and more sustainable solution for consumers.
The research team aims to develop a new approach to managing spent nuclear fuel by engaging community members in the design and construction process. This 'community-first approach' involves simulating the engagement of local stakeholders before designing a facility, taking into account their wishes and needs for future storage sites.
A team of researchers proposes a program to collect astronauts' biological samples, enabling the use of cutting-edge technologies to understand gene, mRNA, protein, and metabolite changes in space. This approach aims to mitigate spaceflight risks and advance personalized medicine for astronauts.
Engineers yeast Ogataea polymorpha for efficient productions of free fatty acids from sole methanol, achieving high levels of FFA accumulation. The research uncovers mechanisms of methanol toxicity during bio-productions and develops a sustainable route for fatty acid production.
The paper explores near- and medium-term possibilities for quantum simulation on analogue and digital platforms to evaluate its potential. Quantum simulation has promising applications in materials science, high-energy physics, and quantum chemistry.
A phase I/II clinical trial found that treatment outcomes were similar between Black and non-Black patients with triple-negative breast cancer who received neoadjuvant durvalumab plus chemotherapy. The study's results suggest that improving healthcare access and delivery could mitigate some of the existing disparities in healthcare.
Researchers at the University of the Basque Country have developed a nasal plug using soy protein and chitin from food industry waste, which promotes haemostasis and is biocompatible. The new material has shown superior mechanical and haemostatic properties compared to current gold standard nasal plugs.
Research suggests that climate change may lead to the proliferation of pathogenic fungi in drying soils, which could pose a significant public health threat. The study's findings are being used to inform policymakers on the potential risks of global climate change on soil fungal communities in the US Southwest.
Scientists at La Jolla Institute for Immunology discover how gut barrier cells send secret messages to patrolling T cells, keeping them alive and active. The study sheds light on conditions like inflammatory bowel disease and highlights the importance of HVEM protein in maintaining a healthy gut microbiome.
A new breath-driven hand prosthesis offers a lightweight, low-maintenance option for children and those in low-resource settings. The device is powered by the user's breathing and provides simultaneous control and actuation, with minimal maintenance required.
Women are less likely to receive diagnostic codes related to CKD, be referred to a nephrologist, and have their kidney function monitored compared to men. Despite guidelines recommending equal care, women receive suboptimal management of chronic kidney disease, with lower rates of testing and guideline-recommended medications.
Researchers developed an automated method for isolating volatile food ingredients, increasing yields and reducing contamination risks. The optimized 'aSAFE' technique eliminates operator errors and improves the accuracy of odorant analysis, enabling targeted product development in the food industry.
A cooperative-based organization of various stakeholders helps coastal communities develop without increasing pressure on resources, supporting resilience to stock changes. Northern shrimp Indigenous fisheries in eastern Québec demonstrate the effectiveness of this approach in fostering community resilience.
A new electrode material Co3O4@NiMoO4 has been developed for flexible hybrid capacitors, exhibiting high energy density and long cycle stability. The material was grown on porous nickel foam using a two-step hydrothermal method, providing a conductive skeleton for the electrodes.
Researchers studied the immunogenic potential of the 4CMenB vaccine in hematopoietic stem cell transplant recipients, finding 90% of patients developed protective antibody levels after two doses. The trial supports including meningococcal B vaccination alongside A, C, W, and Y vaccines from 6 months post-transplant to improve protection.
Research warns of substantial loss in kelp canopy, decline in Dungeness crab and razor clam survival rates, and loss of aerobic habitat for anchovy and pink shrimp. Climate change impacts will be complex, with some effects boosting metabolism but others decreasing survival rates.
Washington University in St. Louis' Zhang lab has been awarded a $458,490 NSF grant to refine their synthetic biology platform for producing muscle fibers with improved material properties. The team plans to examine genetic changes associated with titin protein and create fibers with defined sequences to study material properties.
Researchers at MPI-CBG found that modern human variants cause longer metaphase and fewer chromosome segregation errors in neural stem cells, leading to more efficient brain development. This suggests that some aspects of modern human brain evolution may be independent of brain size.
The FORTHEM alliance, a nine-university network in Europe, will receive nearly EUR 14.4 million in funding from the European Commission for the next four years. This funding will support the expansion of mobility offerings for students and staff, as well as the development of common infrastructure to foster a transnational European Uni...
A study found that economic crises moderate the relationship between environmental behaviour and various factors, such as motivation and effectiveness perceived by the consumer. In times of crisis, price has a significant impact on green activism and purchasing, while in well-being periods, distribution is more important.
Researchers from CNRS and MIT discover that chromosomes are fluid and able to move freely outside of cell division phases. They achieve this through direct mechanical manipulation using magnets, challenging the traditional representation of chromosomes as entangled molecules.
Researchers identified regions in the cerebral cortex and thalamus with high bidirectional connections, which are thought to be essential for consciousness. The findings support the idea that these networks are key to pinpointing the location of consciousness.
A new study finds that children who get less than nine hours of sleep per night have significant differences in certain brain regions compared to those who get the recommended amount. The study also linked inadequate sleep to greater mental health problems, like depression, anxiety, and impulsive behaviors.
Research from Anglia Ruskin University found that microbial instability in the gut hinders endurance athlete performance. High-carbohydrate diets were associated with improved time trial performance, while a short-term high-protein diet led to reduced time trial performance by 23.3%.
Researchers develop novel bioremediation technology using plant-derived material to adsorb and dispose of PFAS chemical pollutants. The technique has potential for commercial applications, offering a cost-effective solution for cleaning up environmentally persistent substances.
Researchers have discovered that long periods in space can damage bone structure irreparably, causing premature aging by up to 10 years. Adapting training programs and medication could help protect astronauts on future missions.
Newborn neurons in Rett syndrome organoids migrate slowly and erratically compared to non-mutated cells. The study provides new insight into how MECP2 mutations affect brain development, revealing larger ventricles and thinner neural zones.
A study of nursing homes found that states with vaccine mandates had higher staff vaccination rates and fewer staffing shortages compared to those without mandates. This suggests that vaccine mandates can lead to improved vaccination coverage among healthcare workers, reducing the risk of COVID-19 outbreaks in long-term care facilities.
Researchers have developed a smartphone clip-on instrument that can rapidly detect Zika virus in whole blood using spatial RT-LAMP technology. The device is sensitive, accurate, and easy to use, making it ideal for point-of-care clinics and controlling the spread of infectious diseases.
The study found that increased oil prices can lead to a decrease in the development of green energy, as oil is required for deploying clean energy capacity or infrastructure. The demand for minerals used in renewable energy production will increase due to growing solar technology adoption.
Researchers applied a new U/Th-Pb geochronology approach to constrain the provenance of eolian sediments from the Chinese Loess Plateau. Their study revealed dominant U/Th-Pb age peaks in early Paleozoic, Mesozoic, and late Cenozoic, mirroring northeast Tibetan Plateau orogenic episodes. In contrast, gold deposits in northern Perú clus...
A national PrEP program is proposed to improve access to the highly effective yet underutilized preventive treatment, which could greatly reduce HIV rates. The special issue supports increased access, affordability, especially among Black and Latino populations.
Regular cannabis use is associated with a decreased likelihood of having sinonasal symptoms such as congestion, runny nose and changes in smell in adults. Further research is needed to understand the mechanisms underlying this association.
Researchers at UCLA have developed a new framework for studying the organization of the human brain by combining data simulation and experimental observation. The study reveals that a small number of spatiotemporal patterns can unify various observations, providing a description of global functional brain organization.
An archaeological study has confirmed that cowrie-shell artifacts found in the Mariana Islands were used as lures for hunting octopuses. The devices date back to approximately 1500 B.C., making them the oldest known artifacts of their kind in the world.
A new study found that coral spawning events at deeper depths occur at lower intensities than those in shallow waters. The researchers suggest that deep reefs may more often rely on shallow-reef corals to survive.