A crowdsourcing campaign has compiled data on the drivers of tropical forest loss between 2008 and 2019, resulting in a high-resolution dataset. The analysis found that agriculture expansion, road construction, and wood extraction are major contributors to deforestation.
A new study finds that California wildfires increase both revenues and expenditures in municipalities, resulting in a budget shortfall over many years. The unique state constitution limits property assessments, but still leads to higher taxes and a boom in housing reassessments after fires.
Researchers discover that common herbicides can kill the Toxoplasma gondii parasite without harming human cells. The compounds work by inhibiting heme biosynthesis, a promising approach for treating toxoplasmosis.
Ira Mellman, PhD, is being honored with the 2022 AACR-CRI Lloyd J. Old Award in Cancer Immunology for his seminal work on dendritic cell function and its impact on atezolizumab and neoepitope vaccines. His research has made a major impact on cancer immunology and has the potential to stimulate new directions.
The RFF Solar Geoengineering Research Project has awarded $10,000 grants to eight teams to investigate the social science implications of solar geoengineering. The projects will explore the risks, benefits, and uncertainties of this emerging technology.
A new study supports the idea that humans inherited our love of alcohol from primate ancestors, who consumed fermented fruit with high alcohol content. Monkeys eat and digest alcohol-rich fruits, using it as a source of calories, shedding light on human affinity for booze.
Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine have discovered a new type of cell in the human lung with regenerative properties. The cells, called respiratory airway secretory cells (RASCs), line tiny airway branches and can regenerate other cells essential for alveoli functioning.
A Japanese study suggests a negative relationship between marriage and wealth among Japanese women, with their personal wealth declining after marriage. In contrast, marriage has a positive impact on the personal assets of women in Western countries.
A new study provides strong evidence that periodic volcanic activity in the Karoo province triggered multiple Jurassic extinctions. The research reveals that volcanism occurred over a longer period than previously thought, with three distinct stages of activity, and had a significant impact on the environment.
A new study found that infant monkeys conceived while their mothers were exposed to wildfire smoke showed increased inflammation, memory deficits, and a more passive temperament compared to those conceived later. The effects suggest that some component of wildfire smoke can act as a teratogen, affecting fetal development.
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) play a key role in malignant cancer progression, but the mechanism of their plasticity remains unknown. Researchers have identified DKK1 as a pivotal molecule that autonomously diminishes CSC population and promotes metastatic colonization.
A study of 650,000 children found SARS-CoV-2 Omicron variant infections were 6-8 times more common than Delta in this age group. Severe clinical outcomes were less frequent with Omicron compared to Delta variant.
Researchers at MIT developed a framework for robotic manipulation systems that can perform complex tasks using a two-stage learning process. This allows robots to learn abstract ideas about manipulating deformable objects, such as pizza dough, and execute skills to complete tasks.
Researchers developed a novel protocol for the direct synthesis of amides via heterogeneous manganese oxide catalyzed successive cleavage and amidation of C-C bonds in alcohols. The method features good functional-group tolerance, cost-effective and recyclable catalyst, and broad substrate scope.
A multidisciplinary team analyzed ancient DNA from the Carpathian Basin to reveal clues about the Avars' origins. The research found that the Avar elites had ancestry from Northeast Asia and the North Caucasus, suggesting a rapid trans-Eurasian migration
The study examines social media searches on Google, Twitter, and Wikipedia to measure the interest in BLM protests and their impact on public discourse. The researchers found a sustained interest in broader issues like systemic racism, redlining, and criminal justice reform.
Researchers develop new membranes to capture more efficient CO2 from mixed gases, addressing trade-off between permeability and selectivity. The technology increases CO2 selectivity by up to 150 times while retaining relative high permeability.
A new study by Resources for the Future and Columbia University finds that losing a hectare of wetlands can cost society an average of $1,900 in flood damages per year. In developed areas, this figure rises to over $8,000. The research highlights the importance of preserving wetlands for flood mitigation.
Scientists have discovered a shapeshifting volcano virus with remarkable properties that let it alter its shape. This finding could lead to new ways to deliver drugs and vaccines, with implications for understanding how viruses evolved and potentially creating new technologies.
Researchers have identified formononetin as a potential therapeutic for treating food allergies, which affect nearly 10% of the world population. The plant compound has been shown to decrease IgE production and influence gene and protein targets regulated in food allergy and mast cell diseases.
Dr. Tim R Peterson's research explores the molecular cause-and-effect between infectious disease and aging, identifying a shared biochemistry that drives senescent cell formation. The presentation highlights potential applications of FDA-approved drugs in developing novel senolytics.
Researchers discovered an unexpected and ultrafast synthesis of collagen-like synthetic poly-L-proline using aqueous solutions, overcoming issues with low solubility in organic solvents. The new method resulted in highly controlled polymerization, high end group fidelity, and narrow dispersity.
A global team of scientists developed a collaborative approach to track SARS-CoV-2 variants, enabling faster vaccine development and improved public health responses. The SAVE program, comprising over 130 researchers from 58 institutions, utilized advanced tools and data analysis to predict variant risks.
Researchers validated the origin of mantle eclogites through Zn-, Mg- and O-isotope analysis, supporting the magmatic model. Type II eclogites formed through kinetic isotopic fractionation of melt-peridotite reaction, resulting in heavy Zn and light Mg isotope enrichment.
A new study found significant improvement in survival rates of extremely pre-term babies born at 22 and 23 weeks. The study, which examined data from 2013-2018, showed a considerable increase in survival rates compared to previous studies, with survival rates reaching 30.0% at 22 weeks and 55.8% at 23 weeks.
Researchers created detailed 3D maps of the metathalamus using BigBrain dataset, gaining insight into its cellular structure and subcortical nuclei. The maps have clinical relevance for diagnosing neurological disorders and aiding neurosurgery, as the metathalamus is involved in many conditions.
A study by UM researchers found that online camping reservations systems can exacerbate existing inequalities in national park access. Campers from higher-income areas and predominantly white communities are more likely to secure coveted sites. The team suggests a lottery system could help balance accessibility with protection of natur...
Researchers discovered that elevated blood fats in people with metabolic diseases create stress in muscle cells, leading to cell death and worsening the illness. Ceramides, a signal created by stressed-out cells, can be passed on to other cells, increasing the risk of severe symptoms.
A new study suggests that children under 5 infected with Omicron have a lower risk of severe health outcomes compared to those infected with the Delta variant. The study found that Omicron is 6-8 times more infectious than Delta, but resulted in fewer hospitalizations and mechanical ventilation cases.
Researchers developed a new method, EpiDamID, to analyze single cells and determine the location of modified proteins around which DNA is wrapped. This technique helps understand how PTMs affect gene expression and has implications for early development and disease research.
Researchers found that flash droughts are happening more quickly, with the fastest ones occurring within five days, affecting areas like South Asia, Southeast Asia, and central North America. The study highlights the importance of understanding and preparing for these events.
A new study reveals that leafcutter ants employ complex strategies to maximize the growth of their fungal
Researchers found that warmer and longer autumn conditions made it less likely for green-veined white butterflies to survive winter. The butterflies used more energy under these conditions, which can lead to lasting negative consequences, including reduced fitness.
A preclinical study suggests that SARS-CoV-2 infection can cause ferroptosis in pacemaker cells, leading to cardiac arrhythmias. Researchers used animal models and human stem cell-derived pacemaker cells to demonstrate the virus's impact on these cells.
A study of 3.5 million Medicare decedents found the percentage of dementia diagnoses at end-of-life increased from 35% in 2004 to 47% in 2017. This rise may be attributed to heightened awareness and changes in billing practices.
A research team from City University of Hong Kong developed a multi-functional electrostatic droplet tweezer that can precisely trap and remotely guide liquid droplets on flat and tilted surfaces, as well as in oil mediums. The technology offers precise and programmable droplet manipulation with high velocity and agile direction steering.
Researchers analyzed 3D facial size and shape to quantify sex differences, providing data-driven anatomic guidance for gender-affirming facial surgery. The study shows significant differences in male and female craniofacial features, particularly in brow, jaw, nose, and cheek regions.
Researchers propose a new research paradigm for material studies based on the concept of functional motifs, which are critical microstructure units governing material functions. This approach enables the rational design of new materials with desired properties by understanding the quantitative relationships between structure and property.
A new study found that omega-3 fatty acid supplementation can broadly improve immunotherapy and other anti-cancer drugs in the clinical setting. In mice, diets enriched with omega-3s blocked tumor growth when combined with immunotherapy or anti-inflammatory treatment, indicating possible synergistic anti-tumor activity.
A new study found that common variable immunodeficiency (CVID) affects only one identical twin due to alterations in immune cell-cell communication and epigenome. Researchers identified defects in B cells and other immune cell types, as well as massive epigenetic problems with DNA methylation.
Claire Célérier, a leading expert in household finance, has been recognized by the Bank of Canada with its Governor's Award for her groundbreaking research on financial inclusion. The award provides a $30,000 annual research grant to support her work on innovative financial products and behavioral biases.
A new study from Northwestern University found that once-weekly prednisone treatment improved exercise endurance, increased lean body mass, and reduced weight in obese mice. The treatment also promoted nutrient uptake into muscles and increased adiponectin levels, a hormone that helps protect against diabetes and insulin resistance.
The paper discusses 2D MIMO-OTA testing algorithms for UE and 3D MIMO-OTA testing algorithms for base stations in the MPAC test setup, comparing related algorithms. Key requirements for designing OTA testing systems are also summarized.
A new study by researchers at New York University found that people tend to prioritize men when referring to individuals in general. The study analyzed over 630 billion words from internet web pages using artificial intelligence tools to measure word meanings.
A combination of two biomarkers has been found to identify patients with subcortical small-vessel disease, a common cognitive diagnosis. This discovery improves the potential for treatment and medication development for this patient group.
Researchers project COVID-19 deaths in US states after lifting nonpharmacologic interventions. The study found significant differences in mortality rates among states, highlighting the need for targeted health policies.
A developmental gene found in humans is also present in sea anemones and plays a critical role in their ability to sense touch. This discovery sheds light on the ancient evolutionary roots of human hearing and its connection to other sensory modalities.
The new ACC/AHA/HFSA guideline redefines heart failure stages to focus on prevention, updating treatment options for people with symptomatic heart failure. It recommends blood pressure control, SGLT-2 inhibitor medicines, and healthy lifestyle habits to prevent HF risk factors from developing.
The Eastern North China Craton's destruction led to CO2 outgassing from the deep mantle. High Ca/Al and low Ti/Eu Mg isotopic compositions indicate recycled surface carbonates stored in the lithospheric mantle.
Post-surgery patients exhibit moderate speech disorders affecting all language processing aspects, whereas post-stroke patients display specific phonological deficits. Understanding these differences is crucial for developing targeted therapies.
A gene therapy trial has shown significant reduction in infections and improvement in eczema symptoms in children with Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome (WAS). The treatment, using lentiviral gene therapy, offers a safe alternative to bone marrow transplantation for patients without suitable donors.
Researchers at Northwestern University used CRISPR to identify human genes important for HIV infection in blood cells, finding 86 genes that may play a role in replication and disease. The study proposes a new map for understanding how HIV integrates into the DNA and establishes chronic infections.
A new study suggests that dramatic swings in food intake can have long-term impacts on cardiovascular health and metabolism. Researchers found that rats who experienced cycles of weight loss and gain had reduced heart and kidney function, as well as increased insulin resistance.
A new study reveals that competitive debates lead to increased polarization as individuals persuade themselves of their side's superiority, even if it conflicts with personal beliefs. The results suggest that self-persuasion is a significant contributor to the growing divide in society.
People with positive past attitudes and long-term planning skills are less depressed, sleep better, and handle isolation more easily. Those who focus on short-term plans and have negative past attitudes show signs of depression, poor sleep quality, and mental disorders.
Researchers at the University of Eastern Finland have developed a novel nuclear microRNA, miR-466c, that regulates vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGFA) expression in response to hypoxia. The drug has commercial relevance for treating ischemic cardiovascular disease by increasing VEGFA levels.
Researchers used NASA's Planetary Spectrum Generator to analyze light from Venus, Mars, and Jupiter, shedding new light on the presence of biosignatures and chemical compounds. The study helps clarify the association between methane on Mars and life, as well as the fate of Martian water.
Researchers at Virginia Tech have found that key parts of the global carbon cycle used to track movement of carbon dioxide in the environment are not correct. The estimate of how much carbon dioxide plants pull from the atmosphere is critical to accurately monitor and predict the amount of climate-changing gases in the atmosphere.
Researchers found severe brain inflammation and injury in COVID-19 patients, with neuron damage and death also present. The study suggests that nonhuman primates can serve as a proxy for understanding human neurological consequences of COVID-19.
A new study finds that climate change will increase the risk of debris flows, flash floods, and extreme rainfall events following wildfires in the western US. By the end of the century, more than 90% of extreme fire events will be followed by at least three extreme rainfalls within five years.
A randomized controlled trial found that community health workers (CHWs) employed by Medicaid plans can help low-income individuals rely less on emergency rooms and more on outpatient care. The study showed significant reductions in acute care visits and costs, while outpatient visits increased among participants who connected with a CHW.
Offline subscription platforms must consider the local market condition to succeed, with variety-seeking customers, differentiated vendor offers, and alleviated price competition being key factors. Platforms also have a dual relationship with vendors, collaborating on services while competing on prices.
Researchers from Georgia Tech have developed a novel tile-based approach to construct on-demand, massively scalable arrays of 5G+ enabled smart skins. The study demonstrates the ability to enhance 5G+ technologies while featuring flexible and conformal capabilities.
Dystonia is characterized by involuntary movements and postures, limiting daily activities. A new study maps specific brain networks for treatment success in patients with cervical and generalized dystonia. The findings reveal distinct stimulation sites depending on the type of dystonia, offering a more targeted approach to improving t...
The March 2022 nTIDE Jobs Report shows employment-to-population ratios for working-age people with disabilities increasing from 33.1% in February to 34.1% in March, a historic high. Labor force participation rates also increased, with workers with disabilities remaining engaged in the labor market throughout the pandemic.
A new study by NIH-funded researchers shows that adolescents with severe substance use disorder symptoms are more likely to develop prescription drug misuse and overdose risks in adulthood. Screening for substance use disorder in teens may help predict adult problems and prevent overdoses.
Researchers from North Carolina State University have released a dataset providing detailed information on COVID-19 vaccine shipments and wastage across the US. The data aims to inform modeling and decision-making to optimize vaccine supply chains.
A new study reveals that nearly half of all older adults now die with a dementia diagnosis listed on their medical record, a 36% increase from two decades ago. This rise may be attributed to better public awareness, more detailed medical records, and Medicare billing practices, rather than an actual increase in the condition.
New research published in Strategic Entrepreneurship Journal suggests that higher unemployment insurance benefits discourage entrepreneurship by disincentivizing business creation and discouraging people from transitioning out of unemployment. Removing profit deduction requirements could encourage more unemployed entrepreneurs to start...
A new University of Michigan study found that most adolescents with severe substance use disorder symptoms continue to struggle with addiction into adulthood. The study's lead author warns that prescribing controlled substances to individuals with multiple substance use disorder symptoms poses safety concerns.
Dendritic cells, or 'sentinel' immune cells, are vital to maintaining the body's immune balance. Researchers have discovered their essential role in treating cancer and severe viral infections by preventing immunopathology.
A new study reports breakthrough bleeding and other period symptoms in non-menstruating individuals after COVID-19 vaccination, highlighting the need to include gender-diverse people in vaccine research. The study found that one-third of respondents reported breakthrough bleeding, with some experiencing significant mental health impacts.
Perseverance mission has recorded the first ever sounds from Mars, showing that the planet is quiet due to low natural sound sources. The rover's microphone captured sounds within the human audible spectrum, including shock waves and helicopter flights.
Researchers have engineered probiotic bacteria to produce the dopamine precursor L-DOPA, a potential treatment for Parkinson's disease. The new approach eliminates side effects and reduces treatment complications, offering a promising alternative to existing treatments.
Researchers found that cichlids and stingrays can perform simple arithmetic operations, such as adding or subtracting one, in the number range of one to five. The fish were trained using a color-based system and showed impressive learning abilities.