A new UMD-led study found that extensive areas of Indonesia's cleared old-growth forests remain idle, with over half idle for at least one year and 44% for five years. Palm oil plantations were the most common outcome, often established after a lag of at least one year.
Researchers at University College Cork have discovered three new species of Theobroma sect. Herrania in the rainforests of South America, which are closely related to the cocoa tree. These findings could lead to the development of climate-resilient cacao trees, helping sustain chocolate production.
A research team from Osaka University identified a key osteoporosis-related gene, Men1, and developed a new animal model of the disease. The study found that inactivation of Men1 led to cellular senescence in osteoblasts, reducing bone formation activity and increasing bone resorption.
A new imaging technique allows scientists to visualize the Earth's rocky interior using GPS data, revealing details about the planet's crust and mantle. This method has the potential to improve earthquake predictions by combining it with other techniques.
The NIH is sponsoring a Phase 1 trial of an experimental nasal COVID-19 vaccine that may offer enhanced protection against emerging variants. The trial will enroll 60 adult participants and assess the safety and immune response of the vaccine candidate, MPV/S-2P.
Lancaster University researchers develop new mapping technology to encourage public participation in urban planning. They modify 'Cities: Skylines' to create realistic cities and inform planning, allowing players to manage services and infrastructure. The study aims to increase citizen engagement through enjoyable gaming experiences.
Amaris McCarver and her team discovered a millisecond pulsar, GLIMPSE-C01A, in the stellar cluster Glimpse-CO1 using VLITE images and archival data. This finding holds potential for establishing a celestial GPS system for satellite navigation in space.
A recent study monitored seven neighboring watersheds in Japan and found that larger watersheds exhibited longer peak lag times. This suggests that watershed scale is a more significant factor in determining flood timing than the degree of topographical relief.
Researchers develop optogenetic system to precisely target cancer cells using light, inducing inflammatory cell death and triggering immune response. The approach aims to modulate the immune suppressive environment around cancer cells, helping T cells recognize and attack the disease.
Stigmatization increases stress, causing physical and mental health problems such as heart disease, anxiety, and depression. Doctors must be aware of these impacts and work to create welcoming healthcare environments for immigrant patients.
Researchers develop a method that fuses AlphaFold's strengths with computer simulations based on physics laws to predict protein structures, enabling faster drug development. The approach filters down initial hypotheses to a more manageable set of structures, increasing the effectiveness of pharmaceuticals.
A new adapter molecule recruits a previously unknown E3 ligase for targeted protein degradation, expanding therapeutic options for cancer and rare diseases. The discovery offers advantages in development due to the molecule's smaller size and potential for tissue-specific application.
Researchers found that older female mice receiving daily whole-body heat treatment gained less weight and showed improved insulin sensitivity. The therapy also mitigated weight gain induced by a high fat diet and reduced fat accumulation in key areas.
Researchers have recognized the dynamic and active role of brain extracellular space (ECS) in regulating neural activity. Dysregulation of ECS contributes to neurological disorders, suggesting therapeutic modulation as a novel treatment pathway.
A new study from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill found that increased social media usage 18 months into the pandemic had a negative effect on college students' mental health. Students who spent more time on social media were more likely to experience depression and anxiety.
Researchers are working on improving the quality of high frequency wireless networks. Dr. Murat Yuksel is hoping to realize the dream of unimpeded communication at distances near and far. He is developing a smart wireless network system using machine learning, which can fine-tune the networks' efficacy.
A new study reveals that whole wheat retains major minerals and trace minerals better than refined flour during milling and baking. The study also found that vitamin E levels dropped substantially with each processing step, regardless of the type of flour used.
Protein nanocages (PNCs) are a promising system for safe and effective delivery of messenger RNAs (mRNAs). PNCs can encapsulate and protect mRNAs, facilitating efficient delivery. They offer advantages such as precise cargo encapsulation, enhanced stability, and compatibility with biological systems.
Lehigh University researchers developed a novel spectroscopy technique called modulation excitation spectroscopy (MES) to study selective catalytic reduction (SCR) of nitrogen oxides. The results, published in Nature Communications, reveal the correct reaction pathway and have significant implications for optimizing catalytic converters.
Dr. Harish Manyam has developed a groundbreaking system that addresses potentially dangerous problems associated with traditional pacemakers and defibrillators. The leadless pacemaker, in combination with a novel subcutaneous defibrillator, eliminates the need for lead extraction procedures.
The university aims to strengthen basic research in the field of sustainable energy systems by hiring Professor Nicole Wermuth, who will focus on large engines and climate-neutral fuels. She will investigate new materials and combustion processes to improve efficiency and minimize emissions.
The FDA allows employees to lobby the agency behind the scenes, despite restrictions on post-employment lobbying. This loophole enables former officials to indirectly influence the agency as they leave for jobs with industries they once regulated.
A study published in Ecology Letters found that humans have a greater impact on alien species diversity than geographic variables on most islands. Human factors such as colonisation pressure, habitat modification, and connectivity drive disparities in functional and phylogenetic diversity.
A large international study reveals that most Asian and European adolescents do not seek professional help despite having high levels of mental health problems. In middle-income countries, less than 1% of adolescents with severe mental health issues sought formal help.
The review highlights the need for accurate bioaerosol detection methods that can distinguish between microorganisms at the species level. Laser-induced fluorescence and Raman spectroscopy are identified as promising technologies for online monitoring, but flaws in current methods must be addressed to improve accuracy.
A new SCAG algorithm achieves high accuracy in branch detection and angle calculation, identifying novel traits for evaluating soybean density tolerance. The open-source algorithm has potential to enhance crop development and agricultural productivity.
Researchers at UCSF have discovered a way to turn ordinary white fat cells into beige fat cells that burn calories, opening the door to developing new weight-loss drugs. The approach uses a protein called KLF-15 and may avoid side effects associated with current treatments.
Researchers from Aarhus University conclude that human hunting was responsible for the extinction of at least 161 species of large mammals over the past 50,000 years. The analysis of various research fields, including climate history and genetic estimates, suggests that human hunting was widespread and consistent across the world.
Researchers from Chiba University develop sustainable method for producing biodegradable polymers using cuttlefish ink melanin. Decomposition products are converted into polymeric materials with potential applications in circular economies.
A study published in Journal of Bone & Joint Surgery found that laboratory values such as hemoglobin level, platelet count, and inflammatory markers can predict the risk of periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) in patients with morbid obesity. These findings may help surgeons identify high-risk patients and improve outcomes.
Researchers found that lower adiponectin levels and higher leptin concentrations in parents during pregnancy may predict offspring mental health disorders. These biomarkers could enable early interventions for children at risk.
Researchers have discovered that the Z-isomer of doxepin has a higher affinity for the H1 receptor, which could lead to the development of more effective antihistamines. The study also sheds light on how the binding environment enhances selectivity for the Z-isomer.
A new species of Ecuadorian velvet worm, Oroperipatus tiputini, has been described after over 100 years, expanding knowledge of these rare animals. The discovery highlights the importance of biodiversity conservation efforts in the Yasuní Biosphere Reserve.
A new study published in Nature Metabolism found that daily fluctuations in the gut microbiome alter its composition significantly throughout the day. The researchers propose standardized guidelines for consistency in sample collection times and methodology to address the replicability crisis in microbiome research.
Researchers suggest programs delivering medically tailored meals to people with diet-sensitive conditions could lead to substantial savings in healthcare costs. The study found significant variation between US states but overall net cost savings in almost every state, with the largest projected savings in Connecticut and Pennsylvania.
Epigenetic modifications regulate gene expression and cellular function, playing critical roles in normal development and disease processes. Recent technological advancements have improved our understanding of the epigenome, enabling targeted therapies to treat cancers and other diseases with aberrant epigenetic modifications.
Researchers from ICIQ have developed a novel, metal-free intramolecular C(sp3)–N bond forming protocol using hexafluoro-2-propanol (HFIP) to efficiently synthesize biorelevant cyclic molecules and nitrogen-containing heterocycles. This breakthrough enhances pharmaceuticals' biological activities.
A study published in PNAS reveals that ETV5 enhances the expression of osteopontin, leading to the differentiation of T cells into follicular helper cells. In SLE patients, disease activity is proportional to ETV5 and osteopontin levels, suggesting a potential therapeutic target for treating lupus.
A major new study finds that climate-vulnerable countries with the highest hunger rates are significantly under-represented in agrifood research. The report highlights the need for urgent action and increased investments to redress this imbalance, calling for greater focus on regions with disproportionately lower research output.
Researchers at George Mason University are working on a contactless fingerprint technology to mitigate biases in smartphone identity verification. The project aims to ensure data security for users of diverse backgrounds, addressing vulnerabilities related to physical characteristics.
Nearly 20,000 US youth deaths could be avoided if US infant mortality rates matched those of 16 comparison countries. The study highlights the need for improved healthcare and interventions to reduce US youth mortality rates.
Patients in sunny climates may require higher doses of Botox to achieve good results in cosmetic treatment. The study found a significant difference in total Botox dose needed between high-sun and low-sun groups, with patients in Malta needing more Botox due to greater muscle activation and potential effects of sunlight.
Researchers found that certain fern species adapt to urban heat and thrive in city environments, while others prefer rural habitats. Average summertime temperature and highest summer temperature are key climatic variables driving this adaptation.
A team of researchers uncovered the geographical origins of farmed foxes and understood the role of genetic diversity in their domestication. The study found that every captive population originated from wild North American foxes, with greater genetic diversity observed in Eurasian populations.
Researchers found that removing the choroid plexus led to a reduction in newly born immature neurons, which are essential for repairing damage caused by stroke. The study suggests that the choroid plexus may be necessary to retain these cells and facilitate brain repair after injury.
A new study suggests taxing certain antibiotics could help manage the threat of antibiotic resistance in humans. By making narrow-spectrum drugs cheaper and broad-spectrum ones more expensive, GPs may be incentivized to prescribe narrower options.
Physicists have achieved a record-setting level of electron mobility in a thin film of ternary tetradymite, a class of mineral found in gold and quartz deposits. The material's high electron mobility makes it suitable for efficient thermoelectric devices that convert waste heat into electricity.
A new study found that bupropion is associated with the least amount of weight gain among common antidepressant medications, with users being 15-20% less likely to gain clinically significant weight. The research also highlights the varying weight gain effects of different antidepressants.
A new study found that Asian American/Pacific Islander youths experience lower rates of inpatient care, while American Indian/Alaska Native youths experience higher rates compared to other racial groups. The researchers suggest that this may be linked to historical trauma and call for further research on care pathways to advance equity.
Researchers at George Mason University are conducting a study to map protein pathways in head and neck cancers. They will analyze pre-specified proteins and phosphoproteins involved in inflammation, DNA damage, and cell survival pathways using comprehensive reverse-phase protein microarray analysis.
Researchers have developed more efficient genetic sensors capable of detecting a broad spectrum of substances with high specificity and sensitivity. These advancements promise to revolutionize healthcare diagnostics, environmental monitoring, and industrial biotechnology, addressing complex global challenges.
Researchers discovered that deep-sea 'comb jellies' called ctenophores have a unique adaptation in their cellular membrane that enables them to survive at high pressure. This finding may inform what's known about the human body, particularly how a specific lipid called plasmalogen works in nerve cells.
Rutgers researchers found that exposure to Zearalenone, a fungal toxin common in processed foods, was associated with altered estrogen and androgen levels in pregnant women. High levels of ZEN were linked to lower estrone and free testosterone in male fetuses and higher 17β-estradiol in female fetuses.
A study by Pusan National University researchers found that repeated item development training enhances faculty members' accuracy in predicting and adjusting item difficulty levels, leading to better educational outcomes. The training improved the quality of MCQ assessments in medical education.
Researchers at the University of Birmingham found that people are aware when their brain is filling in gaps with generic information, enabling them to factor in this knowledge when assessing memory accuracy. The study suggests individuals can recognize prototypical memories and distinguish them from accurate ones.
Theoretical physicists at Utrecht University have discovered that fractals might hold the key to making electric currents flow without energy loss. By growing fractal structures on top of semiconductors, scientists have created materials with zero-dimensional corner modes and lossless one-dimensional edge states.
The July issues of APA journals feature new research on pharmacogenomics, ADHD medication use and associations between mental health and cardiometabolic complications later in life. The studies highlight the importance of personalized medicine and effective treatment strategies for psychiatric disorders.
The University of Maryland team created a camera mechanism that mimics the involuntary movements of the human eye, resulting in sharper and more accurate images. The Artificial Microsaccade-Enhanced Event Camera (AMI-EV) has implications for robotics, national defense, and industries relying on accurate image capture.
A collaborative research team used machine learning to investigate the transcriptomic responses of Spartina alterniflora to various salt concentrations. The study revealed significant transcriptional changes and identified a key gene family member that shows potential for genetic engineering to improve crop resilience.
A new study found that strawberry intake significantly influenced flow-mediated dilation, suggesting a dose-response toward higher CVD risk reduction. The study also suggested a 8-times reduced CVD risk with daily strawberry consumption compared to the control group.