Researchers at UNSW Sydney have found a transposable element that regulates the immune response to virus infection in mice, leading to exaggerated immune responses and tissue damage. Reintroducing the element restores survival, suggesting its potential as a target for treatment.
A study comparing Ohio nature reserves and high-input agricultural lands found that nature reserves can store significantly more carbon. The researchers analyzed soil organic carbon storage, quality, and lability in these two types of land uses.
A study from the Alpha Generation Lab found that hyperactive children are more likely to use digital devices, while fidgety children may be more prone to social problems. The researchers suggest a two-way street where digital devices and behavior problems influence each other.
Researchers achieved a breakthrough in generating terahertz waves with a conversion efficiency of 0.35% using a dual-color femtosecond laser filamentation technique. The study investigated the influence of ambient gas species on THz generation efficiency and demonstrated improved performance in argon gas.
A new study finds that the drug terazosin has shown protective effects on motor neurons in models of motor neuron disease (MND), including zebrafish, mice and stem cell models. Researchers hope to launch a full clinical trial if the drug proves successful in a feasibility study involving 50 patients.
A study found that concurrent heat and drought events can have devastating effects on multiple sectors, including human health, energy, and agriculture. The research highlights the importance of considering compound extreme events in adaptation efforts to improve resilience.
The National Science Foundation has awarded Georgetown University $12.5 million to establish a collaborative institute focused on viral emergence and education. The Verena Biology Integration Institute aims to advance cross-disciplinary research and train the next generation of researchers in this field.
A new study found that even modest (1.6 C) climate warming causes reduced growth and increased mortality in northern conifer species, while broadleaved hardwoods may experience enhanced growth. The boreal forest's composition is likely to shift, potentially leading to a more impoverished version of the current ecosystem.
The US FDA is reassessing its need for animal tests in product development, exploring alternative methods that could improve efficacy and safety predictions. New technologies like microphysiological systems may replace traditional animal studies, enabling faster product approval.
The August issue of the CHEST journal features 47 articles on clinically relevant topics such as asthma, COPD, and pulmonary vascular disease. A highlighted article examines barriers to palliative care in interstitial lung disease.
A recent study published in PLOS ONE found that racial and ethnic minorities bore a disproportionate mental health burden during the COVID-19 pandemic. After controlling for various factors, Black participants were 1.16 times more likely to screen positive for depression, while Hispanic participants were 1.23 times more likely to do so.
Researchers found that adult female capuchin monkeys who are well-integrated into social networks with other females survive longer. In contrast, heterosexual relationships showed no survival-related benefits to females, but may still provide benefits for some individuals in specific circumstances. The study also reveals complex behavi...
The CHEETAH Center is a leading institution for HIV research, publishing over 300 papers on the virus's inner workings and potential treatments. Researchers are focusing on understanding HIV's life cycle, identifying key components essential for viral infection and replication.
Researchers at the University of Sussex have created an 'eternal engine' to keep next-generation atomic clocks ticking, enabling portable versions that can replace existing satellite navigation systems. The breakthrough uses microcombs and self-emergence technology to ensure stable operation in various conditions.
A recent study published in PLOS ONE found that opioid prescriptions declined for US patients with both cancer and non-cancer pain between 2012 and 2019. The proportion of people receiving any opioid prescription dropped from 49.7% to 30.5% for non-cancer pain and from 86.0% to 78.7% for cancer pain.
Researchers identify LINE-1 RNA as a key player in premature aging, revealing its role in progeria and potential therapeutic targets. By inhibiting LINE-1 RNA, scientists reverse signs of aging and extend lifespan in mice.
Researchers have discovered a functional link between STING signaling and immunometabolism, suggesting that PET imaging could measure the pharmacodynamic effects of STING-activating drugs. This approach may enable a whole-body analysis of immune activation in humans, guiding clinical development of anti-tumor therapy.
A new scale called the Geriatric Oncology-Potentially Inappropriate Medications (GO-PIMs) Scale was found to be more effective at predicting frailty than conventional methods. The scale identifies high-risk medications linked to falls and fatigue, allowing oncology teams to deprescribe them and improve patients' overall health.
A new study by researchers at UTHealth Houston found that children infected with COVID-19, but not hospitalized, can still develop long COVID symptoms up to three months past infection. The study also identified risk factors for long COVID in children, including unvaccination and obesity.
Scientists at the University of Delaware have developed a new type of cement that can be used to build structures on the moon or Mars. The geopolymer cement is made from clay-like topsoil materials found on these planets and has been shown to be durable enough for vertical launch pads.
The study demonstrates the creation of physical reservoirs using chaotic dynamics, enabling alternative approach to AI-based pattern detection. The researchers exploited emergence and pattern formation phenomena under incomplete synchronization in chaotic dynamics, revealing a rich variety of ways in which the network synchronizes.
A team of climate scientists predicts the East Antarctic Ice Sheet could contribute up to 5m to sea levels by 2500 if greenhouse gas emissions aren't reduced. Limiting global warming to well below two degrees Celsius can avoid this worst-case scenario.
A new study found that brain scans are more accurate in measuring learning than traditional tests. The research reveals a link between spatial thinking and verbal reasoning, with improvements in one leading to gains in the other.
Researchers developed a Flashover Prediction Neural Network (FlashNet) model to forecast deadly fire events, beating other AI-based tools with up to 92.1% accuracy across various building floorplans. The model's performance improved when given real-world data, highlighting its potential for saving firefighter lives.
MIT researchers developed a method to create 3D-printed materials with tunable mechanical properties and embedded sensors, enabling real-time feedback on movement and interaction. The sensing structures use air-filled channels that deform when moved or squeezed, providing accurate feedback for robotics and wearable devices.
A University of Arizona-led study uses bacteria to understand how natural patterns form through mechanical interactions. The findings suggest that just four different adhesive molecules are sufficient to create any possible tiling pattern, with implications for understanding complex multicellular life and creating biodegradable materials.
A new study published in Environmental Research Letters reveals that high-value properties in the western United States are disproportionately exposed to wildfire hazards. Researchers found that both low- and high-income communities bear a disproportionate burden of wildfires.
A new study reveals sponges have a unique mechanism to clear their water channels: a sneeze-like process. Sponges release a type of mucus that is consumed by other animals, providing a food source inaccessible to most sea creatures.
Researchers found a link between atrial cardiopathy and dementia in older adults, with those having the condition at a higher risk of developing dementia over time. The study suggests that subtle changes in the left atrium may be an independent risk factor for dementia, even after controlling for other vascular risk factors.
The IQ-Sense project brings together researchers from two German universities to develop and demonstrate integrated quantum sensors for spectroscopic and imaging applications. The project will enable precise measurements of temperature, pressure, magnetic or electric fields, crucial in various scientific and medical fields.
A MedUni Vienna study has identified retinal layer thinning as a reliable prognostic marker for multiple sclerosis severity. The analysis revealed that thinner retinas are associated with increased risk of permanent disability and more aggressive treatment is recommended.
The workshop will discuss recent advances, perspectives, and applications of medical cannabis and cannabinoids. Researchers will explore their chemistry, pharmacology, analysis, influence on mitochondria, and potential use as anticancer agents.
Researchers mapped out the brain network responsible for nicotine's negative consequences, opening the door to interventions that boost aversive effects to help people quit smoking. The discovery suggests that manipulating this network could treat nicotine dependence by inducing an acute aversive effect.
Researchers at the University of Freiburg have created a novel deelectronator made from a commercially available chemical, allowing for the production of previously unknown cluster cations. This breakthrough enables the efficient removal of electrons while preserving complex structures.
Researchers at Rutgers University have disentangled the two ways of thinking about self-control, highlighting the importance of diachronic regulation and the limited effectiveness of synchronic regulation. This distinction has implications for understanding willpower's role in helping people break habits.
A study from the University of California, Davis, found that economies are sensitive to persistent temperature shocks over a 10-year time frame, impacting growth in about 22% of countries. Climate change affects various sectors, including agriculture and cloud-based data centers.
Researchers have identified two time periods of increased strike risk for hares at Dublin Airport: sunrise and midnight hours. By focusing prevention efforts on the hare population, the study aims to reduce costly 'runway roadkill' incidents worldwide.
A new analysis of seismic data from NASA's Mars InSight mission has found that the Martian subsurface contains little or no ice, contradicting a leading idea about water on Mars. This discovery suggests that conditions are too cold to freeze water at depths below 300 meters near the equator.
The study found that island size and location have a significant impact on seasonal bird species richness. Islands in the Northern Hemisphere at mid-latitudes during migration periods host the highest number of species, while tropical islands peak with species numbers during the non-breeding season.
Researchers at the University of Chicago found that Medicare residents in US nursing homes report only 59.7% of pressure ulcers, with disparities affecting Black and Hispanic residents, who experience more severe stage 4 ulcers.
A new study by Durham University suggests that the East Antarctic Ice Sheet can be protected from devastating effects of global warming if temperature increases are kept below 2°C. The researchers found that staying within this limit could prevent significant ice loss and contribute less than half a metre to sea level rise by 2500.
Researchers assessed the effectiveness of adding a Pfizer-BioNTech booster to two doses of CoronaVac, finding reduced risk of symptomatic SARS-CoV-2 infection. The study used national data from nearly 14 million vaccinated individuals in Malaysia.
The review highlights the need for ultra-compact supercapacitors in the Internet of Things, citing their potential to enable self-powered and wireless micro-electronic systems. However, challenges remain in reducing feature size and improving energy and power density.
A large-scale review by UCL researchers calls for better education of medical professionals on weight stigma to reduce the UK's obesity rate. Weight-inclusive approaches to education in healthcare were found to be effective in challenging stereotypes and improving attitudes among medics.
Researchers at UChicago create a method to efficiently calculate quantum phase transitions, which can lead to technological advancements. The new approach simplifies calculations by using a two-electron reduced density matrix, allowing for more accurate and efficient simulations.
The NSF ERC grant will support the development of streetscape applications to forge livable, safe, and inclusive communities. The project aims to transform urban areas by harnessing data from smart streetscapes to address critical needs in road safety, traffic efficiency, and environmental sensing.
A recent study by Massachusetts General Hospital found that urgent care centers can divert imaging tests away from emergency departments after spinal trauma, resulting in cost savings. The study analyzed data from May 2021 to August 2021 and estimated annual savings of $437,928.
A 50-year analysis of scholarly research papers found an overall increase in productivity, with environmental sciences and engineering leading growth. However, a worldwide gender gap persists, widening in some countries and narrowing in others.
Researchers used 3D modeling and engineering to digitally reconstruct the function of foot bones in sauropods, discovering a soft tissue pad beneath the heel that cushioned the foot to absorb weight. This finding confirms a long-suspected idea and provides biomechanical evidence for how sauropods supported their enormous weight on land.
Researchers discovered a relict group of singing insects produced pure-tone songs at low frequencies, enabling them to travel longer distances. This finding advances our understanding of ancient soundscapes and highlights the importance of bioacoustics in understanding insect behavior.
Areas managed by Indigenous peoples have significantly more primate biodiversity than nearby regions. Lorises, tarsiers, monkeys, and apes are less likely to be classified as vulnerable or endangered when their territories overlap with Indigenous lands.
Researchers discovered a novel role for an E. coli enzyme in reducing the toxic effects of hypothiocyanite, a key antimicrobial released by the human immune system. This finding has implications for diseases like cystic fibrosis and inflammatory bowel disease, as it suggests that various bacteria can evade this powerful oxidant.
A University of Michigan study found that high school seniors playing contact sports are 50% more likely to misuse prescription stimulants in the next decade. Noncontact sports athletes are also at risk, with greater odds of initiating stimulant misuse in young adulthood.
Researchers used spatial transcriptomics to create a map of prostate tissue, revealing areas of healthy cells with genetic characteristics of cancer. The study's findings have big implications for diagnosis and potentially treating specific cancer regions.
A monoclonal antibody, mepolizumab, decreased asthma attacks in Black and Hispanic children and adolescents living in low-income urban neighborhoods. The study identified three networks of genes associated with airway inflammation and asthma attacks that were reduced by the drug.
A new UCI-led study reveals that the circadian clock's disruption can drive colorectal cancer progression through genetic mutations and increased tumor growth. The study found that both environmental and genetic disruptions of the circadian clock contribute to APC loss of heterozygosity, a critical factor in CRC development.
Researchers found that sponges release mucus to unclog their internal filter systems, which also serves as a food source for fish. The study published in Current Biology highlights the unique adaptation of sponges to manage their waste and environment.
Researchers found lower stages of breast cancer in women aged 40-49 compared to those aged 50-59, with a significant decrease in stage 4 cases. This suggests that early detection through regular mammograms can lead to better health outcomes and survival rates.
Researchers used Stampede2 supercomputer to simulate star seeding, heating effects of primordial black holes. The study found that these two effects cancel each other out, with little impact on star formation.
Researchers have developed a new method to produce ultrathin layered double hydroxide nanosheets with improved properties, enabling their application in photodetectors. The new technique allows for the creation of large quantities of nanosheets with uniform thickness and broad light absorption range.
The new Engineering Research Center for Smart Streetscapes (CS3) will advance the future of smart streetscapes with cutting-edge technologies. The center aims to improve quality of life, enhance social equity, and stimulate economic development through innovative smart city solutions.
The Midwest Antiviral Drug Discovery Center, led by the University of Minnesota, aims to discover effective responses to pandemics through basic, translational, and clinical research. Researchers at UIC are developing an antiviral therapy for filoviruses like Ebola with a potential drug ready for human testing within three to five years.
Research reveals that nursing homes in disadvantaged neighborhoods have lower clinical staff hours compared to those in more well-off areas. This disparity is particularly pronounced for registered nurses and physical therapists.
Researchers have discovered a new molecule, fabimycin, that effectively treats over 300 drug-resistant bacteria in lab experiments and mice with pneumonia and urinary tract infections. The compound reduces the amount of drug-resistant bacteria to pre-infection levels or below, outperforming existing antibiotics at similar doses.
A new technique discovered by Boise State University researchers can create novel lithium-ion battery materials with exceptional Li storage and fast cycling. The process starts from an amorphous material, like niobium oxide, which is cycled with lithium to induce a transformation to a crystalline material.
Climate change is driving the expansion of invasive insect species, such as the oak gall wasp, into more northerly oak savannas. This can lead to an imbalance in the ecosystem, as these insects can overwhelm native species without natural predators or competitors.
Simultaneous extreme heat and drought events have significant consequences on various sectors, including economy, health, and food production. The analysis of eight extreme events in Europe, Australia, and Africa highlights the need for more systematic risk assessments to improve adaptability and resilience.
Boosting with either Janssen or Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine boosts humoral and cellular immune responses. Boosting with Janssen vaccine provides durable antibody and T-cell responses for at least four months.
A new drug, TB31F, has been shown to block the transmission of malaria parasites by mosquitoes, preventing further malaria cases. The antibody was tested in humans and found safe with no important side effects.
Researchers at ICFO successfully simulated a topological gauge theory using ultracold potassium atoms dressed with laser light, moving beyond previous electromagnetism simulations. This breakthrough allows for better understanding of exotic quantum behavior in materials and error correction codes for future quantum computers.
A new study found that people with multiple sclerosis may experience varying levels of physical and mental quality of life depending on factors such as age at diagnosis, income, and disability level. Researchers identified specific subgroups with distinct profiles, highlighting the need for early interventions to improve outcomes.
A new study reveals that a multiple sclerosis treatment, interferon beta, reduces the binding of key molecules to red blood cells, thereby decreasing inflammation and slowing disease progression. This breakthrough discovery has significant implications for the treatment of this debilitating autoimmune disease.
A graphene photodetector with a double slot structure exhibits high responsivity of 603.92 mA/W and large bandwidth of 78 GHz, addressing the limitations of graphene's low optical absorption. The novel design promotes graphene absorption while minimizing metallic absorption, providing a competitive solution for photodetection on silicon.
A new study suggests that tocolytics can safely delay preterm births and reduce neonatal deaths worldwide. The analysis of 122 clinical trials found benefits for all preterm delay treatments, with some side effects noted.
Intrinsically-stretchable optoelectronic devices can endure mechanical deformations without additional structural engineering. The devices have potential for remote diagnosis, ubiquitous healthcare, and continuous monitoring of personal biometric information.
Researchers identify small molecules that can restore wild-type p53 tumor suppression function to mutated p53 in both lab and mouse models. The approach has potential for developing new pharmaceuticals for treating cancers with p53 mutations.
Researchers have created and observed novel vortices in an ultracold gas, exhibiting unexpected properties due to hidden discrete symmetries. The discovery may lead to breakthroughs in quantum computing and information processing.
A new study published in Nature reveals that microglia cells change their molecular state to match neighboring neurons, influencing neural circuit function. The researchers found that different types of cortical neurons recruit specific numbers of microglia, which then adapt to the neuron's environment.
Researchers found that lidocaine injections reduced Psoriasis Area and Severity Index scores by 35-70% and maintained improvements for at least 24 weeks. The study suggests targeting sensory nerves as a potential therapeutic strategy for psoriasis treatment.
Researchers found a strong association between atrial cardiopathy and dementia in a study of over 15,000 participants. The study revealed that even those without atrial fibrillation or stroke were at higher risk for dementia, highlighting the need to better understand the mechanisms behind this link.
A new study led by Dr. Renee Goodwin found that adults who use cannabis daily perceive pack a day cigarette use as less harmful than non-users, highlighting the role of perception in predicting substance use. The study suggests that increased tobacco use may be one possibility of cannabis legalization.
Researchers from Griffith University and UNSW Sydney developed a robust and functional material system that overcomes the challenges of long-term implantation in biofluids. The system consists of silicon carbide nanomembranes as the contact surface and silicon dioxide as the protective encapsulation, showing unrivalled stability.
Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center have identified a critical mechanism in the replication of SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19. The NiRAN domain plays a crucial role in synthesizing the RNA cap, which is essential for viral replication.
A study by Tel Aviv University researchers found a unique oral microbiotic signature in the saliva of veteran soldiers with PTSD, which may help diagnose post-traumatic stress disorder objectively. The study also showed that people with PTSD exhibit the same picture of bacteria in their saliva as those who have experienced combat stres...
Researchers identify PRC1 as key to establishing and maintaining ovarian reserve, providing insights into female reproductive health and lifespan. The study's findings may help explain premature ovarian failure and infertility in humans.
Brazilian researchers used computer simulations to investigate the superconducting behavior of a dimolybdenum nitride monolayer, finding that it became superconductive at relatively high temperatures and showed strong correlation with strain applied.
The study analyzed 400 million voter records from 2014 and 2016 elections to find large and persistent gaps in voter turnout by race, age, and political affiliation. Minority citizens, young people, and Democrats are less likely to vote than whites, older citizens, and Republicans.
A study published in Science Advances reports that the Moon inherited helium and neon from Earth's mantle, supporting the Giant Impact theory. The discovery was made possible by the use of a state-of-the-art noble gas mass spectrometer, Tom Dooley, which detected high concentrations of these gases in lunar meteorites.
Researchers at IISc identified a way to estimate ancient seawater temperature by analyzing otoliths from fish ears, which hold clues to water type and age. By correlating calcium isotope ratios with seawater temperatures, they found a powerful tracer of water temperature that can be applied to fossilized samples.
Researchers have developed a new way to deliver vaccines through mucosal tissues in the nose, generating strong immune responses in mice and non-human primates. The technology bypasses traditional barriers to delivery by engineering antigens to bind onto albumin, allowing them to effectively target immune tissues.
Pregnant women are at increased risk of cardiovascular complications, including heart attack, arrhythmias, and long-haul symptoms from COVID-19. Vaccination is critical to ensuring safe pregnancy and birth in the COVID-19 era.
New research shows that the Amazon rainforest's growth rate is limited by a lack of phosphorus in the soil, which could reduce its ability to store carbon and increase vulnerability to climate change. Phosphorus availability played a critical role in increasing productivity in a recent experiment.
Researchers have discovered a broadly neutralising antibody, ZCB11, that protects against all SARS-CoV-2 Omicron variants. Administration of ZCB11 either prophylactically or therapeutically shields lung infection in golden Syrian hamsters from Omicron viral challenge.
A graphene/silicon hybrid photodetector is developed using a novel double slot structure, exhibiting improved performance. The device achieves a response time of 7.2 ms and a refresh rate of 60 Hz, suitable for real-time holographic displays.
Researchers from Tokyo University of Science develop a method to determine the number of samples required for accurate assessment of microplastic contamination in urban rivers. The study found that at high MP concentrations, two replicate samples are sufficient to measure MP concentrations accurately.
Researchers found 87 genes affected by deletions or short insertions in the woolly mammoth genome, potentially impacting its adaptability to cold environments. These changes may have contributed to unique traits such as fur growth and hair shape.
A team of researchers developed a unified model to predict human movement during large-scale extreme events. The model reveals 'spatiotemporal decay' and 'temporal decay,' showing people limit their mobility near disaster zones and exhibit faster changes in lower income areas.
Researchers have made significant progress in perovskite-transition metal dichalcogenides heterostructures, offering tunable optical and electronic properties. These materials show great potential for high-performance optoelectronic devices, including photodetectors and solar cells.
A new study published in JAMA Network Open found that children conceived through IVF have small differences in growth and weight compared to naturally conceived peers. The study of over 6000 children showed that these differences were negligible by late adolescence and unlikely to have health implications.
A new study published in Annals of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology found that 36% of YouTube videos on hay fever contained misleading information, leading to increased user interaction. Medical associations were the most reliable source of information, with only 32% of TV show/YouTube channel videos classified as useful.
Scientists at Scripps Research have identified antibodies that induce broad immunity against SARS viruses, including emerging variants. The discovery reveals the antibody structures that produce this more comprehensive immune response and could inform the development of next-generation vaccines.
A meta-analysis found that leisure activities overall were linked to a reduced risk of dementia. Mental activities like reading or watching TV had the greatest impact, followed by physical activities such as walking or sports.
A new University of Michigan study finds that local wind and solar jobs can fully replace the 80,000 coal-plant jobs in the US by 2030, with operations and maintenance jobs accounting for 57% to 92% of replacement employment.
A recent study published in Cancer Research identified a unique vulnerability in certain high-risk cancers that can be exploited for targeted therapy. Researchers found that cancer cells with alternative lengthening of telomeres (ALT) have a common weakness, leading to resistance to DNA-damaging agents and chemotherapy.
Researchers analyzed four pesticides' effects on earthworms and springtails in Northern, Central, and Southern Europe. They found varying risks depending on soil compartment and pesticide characteristics. The study highlights the need to consider regional variability when regulating agricultural practices.
A study published in the American Journal of Roentgenology found that combining deep-learning reconstruction with a subtraction technique yielded optimal diagnostic performance for detecting in-stent restenosis by coronary CT angiography. This approach reduced radiation exposure while maintaining high image quality.
A fungus called Ustilago maydis manipulates the corn plant's auxin signaling pathway by binding to a protein called Topless, suppressing certain pathways while promoting growth and division. This precise control enables the fungus to thrive in infected plants.
University of Cincinnati researchers are studying whether targeting an inflammation pathway can improve patient results for soldiers with burn injuries combined with traumatic brain injuries. The research focuses on a specific protein that causes inflammation, which can lead to complications such as anemia and death.
Western gorillas in zoos have developed a novel vocalization to get attention and food from their human caregivers. Researchers observed this unique behavior in response to food availability and interaction with zoo staff.
Researchers at HKUMed & CityU discover that transcorneal electrical stimulation can alleviate depression-like symptoms and improve cognitive function in animal models. The technique also induced the expression of genes involved in brain cell growth, offering a potential new treatment for Alzheimer's disease.
The article reviews the physics and progress of THz generation from laser-induced plasmas, highlighting three scenarios in air, liquid, and solid configurations. Strong terahertz generation via plasma is discussed with challenges and future perspectives.
Scientists discovered evidence of giant meteorite impacts that formed Earth's continents through the study of zircon crystals in Western Australia. The research provides strong support for the theory that these impacts played a key role in shaping the planet's geography.
Researchers developed a blood test tool that predicts patient outcomes after traumatic brain injury (TBI), with 87% accuracy for predicting death and 86% for predicting severe disability. The tests are diagnostic and prognostic, easy to administer, swift, and inexpensive.
Researchers analyzed data from over 3,000 participants and found no association between electrocardiogram measures and telomere length. The study suggests that ECG prolongation is age-dependent but not a marker of biological aging.
A recent UK-based study has revealed that vegetarian women have a 33% higher risk of hip fracture compared to regular meat-eaters. The research found that vegetarians had lower intakes of protein, calcium, and other micronutrients, which are crucial for bone and muscle health.
A new study by the American Cancer Society reports nearly 123,000 cancer deaths due to cigarette smoking in the US, resulting in over two million Person-Years of Lost Life (PYLL) and $21 billion in annual lost earnings. The losses were disproportionately higher in states with weaker tobacco control policies.
The study found that plants have a transport route for calcium ions into their mitochondria, which is essential for signal transmission. The researchers also discovered a link between calcium ion transport and the regulation of the plant hormone jasmonic acid, which controls defense against herbivores and senescence.
A self-pollinating monkeyflower plant lost 13-24% of its genetic variation within nine generations when isolated from bumble bees. This rapid loss of genetic variation could have devastating impacts on the plant's ability to adapt to changing environments, highlighting the importance of pollinators for plant survival.