Understory plants in European temperate forests have shifted their ranges westward over decades, with a stronger connection to nitrogen deposition than climate change. Westward shifts were more likely than northward ones and colonized areas along the east-west axis were closely related to nitrogen and sulfur deposition rates.
A new study by Penn State researchers found that students who feel a sense of belonging at their university are more likely to binge drink than those who do not. The study, which analyzed data from over 4,000 university students, suggests that feeling connected to the university is associated with higher rates of substance use.
Researchers at ETH Zurich have developed a material that combines stiffness and damping properties, making it suitable for various applications. The new composite material features layers of stiff materials connected by ultra-thin rubber-like layers, resulting in excellent vibration-damping performance.
Researchers propose utilizing human 3D skin models to assess drug binding properties across different skin types. Genetic variations among minority groups can lead to starkly different drug responses across races and ethnicities.
Researchers from UMass Amherst have identified a key connection between ecology and speciation in Darwin's finches, famous residents of the Gal pagos Islands, Ecuador. The study shows that beak-driven changes to song impact species recognition, driving the separation of species.
A new five-year NIH-funded study will investigate the impact of stress, illness, and inflammation on bias in healthcare workers, particularly towards patients from racial minority groups. The research aims to identify situations that increase bias and develop effective anti-bias strategies.
A new magnetic gene therapy technology allows for precise control of specific brain circuits non-invasively with magnetic fields. The technology has shown promise in reducing abnormal movements in a mouse model of Parkinson's disease, and may have potential applications for treating psychiatric disorders and chronic pain.
Recent breakthroughs in microcomb design and control enable novel applications in classical and quantum information, including signal generation, spectroscopy, and medical imaging. Microcombs hold promise for transforming various scientific and industrial sectors through precise light and information control.
Despite Norway's ambitious circular economy goal, the country incinerates more than 65% of collected waste, with significant gaps in data collection and measurement methods. Researchers propose 18 new methods to improve efficiency, highlighting the need for more accurate reporting on recycling rates.
A new study suggests that exposing young children to more misinformation online, with proper education and oversight, can help them develop essential critical thinking skills. Children who encounter more false information early on are more likely to fact-check and debunk potential misinformation, according to researchers.
A research team led by Dr. Franco Marcantonio found significant lead pollution in a Tibetan glacier starting in 1974, with highest levels between 2000 and 2007. The team traced the source of pollution to Chinese gasoline emissions containing lead until its phasedown after 2007.
A recent study discovered microscopic mucus tails on marine snow particles, which significantly alter estimates of carbon sequestration in the deep sea. These 'tails' slow particle descent into the upper ocean layers, doubling their residence time and impacting carbon transfer and storage.
A study by Ludwig Cancer Research reveals that the most common type of DNA mutation contributing to genetic diseases is primarily caused by errors during cell division. The team found that a key component of the cell's DNA-copying machinery makes editing mistakes when encountering methylated cytosines, leading to mutations.
The Northwestern Mental Health, Earlier Center will address the youth mental health crisis by targeting early signs of vulnerability to mental health problems in toddlers through routine pediatric care. The center aims to foster self-regulation skills and reduce mental health risk by promoting developmental health promotion frameworks.
Researchers found that disrupting the Asxl1 gene in T cells improved sensitivity to immune checkpoint blockade and enabled long-term tumor control. This discovery is a critical advancement for the field, allowing for further engineering of T cells with durable anti-tumor responses.
A nationwide effort to prevent necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) in newborns has been launched with a $1.9 million Department of Health and Human Services grant. The grant will fund the distribution of an NEC prevention bundle, NEC-Zero, to help neonatal intensive care units recognize and prevent NEC.
Researchers at UVA Health System found that a hyperactive nervous system response can worsen C. difficile infections, leading to severe diarrhea, nausea, and colitis. Targeting the alpha 2 adrenergic receptor may provide a new therapeutic target for treating these deadly infections.
A team of UVA researchers, including Phil Bourne and Cam Mura, develop a new computational framework called DeepUrfold to explore structural similarities in proteins. This framework identifies faint relationships between proteins that were previously considered unrelated, revolutionizing the field of protein structure analysis.
A unique condition dubbed 'headspin hole' has been identified in breakdancers, characterized by a protruding scalp lump, hair loss, and tenderness. Repeatedly performing headspins increases the risk of developing this condition, highlighting the importance of recognizing chronic scalp conditions in breakdancers.
A new study by Queen Mary University of London found that 85% of women aged 24-65 prefer the option to choose between self-sampling and traditional cervical screening. The study highlights a growing demand for more flexibility and accessible cervical cancer testing options. Women's attitudes towards choice were influenced by factors su...
Researchers at TUM found that mitochondrial dysfunction in mice leads to chronic intestinal inflammation and changes in the gut microbiome. The study suggests potential new treatments targeting mitochondrial pathways or addressing the connections between the microbiome and mitochondria.
Researchers at Umea University have discovered how embryonic stem cells transition into specialized cells, highlighting the importance of LSD1 protein in cancer development. The study suggests that targeting only LSD1's enzymatic activity may not be enough for cancer treatments to be effective.
The University of Minnesota Medical School is studying how pain influences drinking behavior, particularly in individuals with chronic temporomandibular disorder (TMD) pain. Researchers aim to identify new treatment targets to help people with pain avoid alcohol-related problems.
A new nanotherapy infusion was tested in pig models to prove its effectiveness and lack of side effects. The infusion targets specific immune cells that eat away at plaque cores, reducing blood vessel inflammation.
A process yielding record-high performing transistors from solution-deposited semiconductors has been developed, despite higher defect concentrations in the material. The researchers' work enables large-area applications and efficient processing, paving the way for high-performance electronics.
A new study found that cognitive psychological factors, such as how children remember and perceive traumatic events, are the strongest predictors of poor mental health outcomes. The research team developed four predictive models of risk factors for PTSD, Complex PTSD, depression, and Generalized Anxiety Disorder.
Research discovered that chloride ion channels play a role in glioblastoma cell division and proliferation. By blocking these channels, replication can be stopped, pointing to ion currents as a potential target for therapeutic approaches.
A study found that more than half of the top US physicians who reviewed research for major medical journals received industry payments, with most being for research purposes. The payments may have implications for conflicts of interest and research outcomes, highlighting a need for transparency in the medical publishing system.
Researchers found a 'confrontation effect' where people are more likely to engage with opposing viewpoints driven by outrage. The study analyzed data from Twitter and Facebook during the 2020 US presidential election, revealing users often react to opposing views with heightened engagement.
A new review by Dr. Ruyuan Wang and an international team of researchers sheds light on the complex interactions between the innate and adaptive immune systems, highlighting their composition and distinct functions.
The study develops a titanium-containing zeolite catalyst for aerobic epoxidation, achieving high propylene oxide selectivity. The reaction mechanism is interpreted with DFT calculations, confirming the Mars-van-Krevelen mechanism.
Organoids are miniature organs that capture specific organ structures and functions. They have been shown to shed light on genetic cell fates in various diseases, including infectious diseases, metabolic disorders, and malignancies.
A systematic review highlights common thoracic CT imaging findings in obese patients, including dynamic upper airway collapse and mosaic attenuation. The review also explores the potential link to fibrotic interstitial lung disease and discusses advancements in AI body morphometry for improved prognosis.
Researchers have identified a key metabolic feature of human tissue-resident NK cells in the lung that enables them to rapidly respond to increased glucose levels. This unique adaptation could be a major target for future therapies in lung diseases, including cancer and infections.
A new technological design increases graphene production while maintaining quality, utilizing a Faraday cage to optimize energy and reduce waste. The study shows significant improvement in efficiency, producing 5.2 milligrams of graphene per minute and watt compared to the original 4.3 milligrams.
A UMass Amherst-led team has developed a sensor to detect sodium ions in breastmilk, a biomarker of elevated mammary permeability and potential milk supply issues. The device provides highly sensitive readings inexpensively and quickly, with results delivered in three minutes and costs just $1 per test.
Researchers have developed a computer simulation of brain neuron growth, using Approximate Bayesian Computation. The model successfully mimicked the growth patterns of real hippocampal neurons, showing promise for understanding neurodegenerative diseases and potential treatments.
Researchers have found that variability in when and how cells divide during embryo development leads to more optimal arrangements of cells, promoting robust tissue formation. This study challenges traditional views on the role of cell division variability in embryonic development.
Dragonfly species with darker wing coloration have evolved to tolerate higher temperatures, possibly a decisive advantage in a warming world. This finding could help predict which species are vulnerable to extinction and preserve biodiversity.
Scientists introduce a new strategy using sulfur to activate vacancy-induced C–C bond cleavage, ensuring sustained action of oxygen vacancies. This enables high-efficiency and stable electrochemical conversion performance in polyol electrooxidation.
Researchers found that users pay a price for free mobile apps, including reduced focus, sleep deprivation, and loss of physical contact. Users prefer to make one-time purchases to protect their privacy over using services with hidden costs.
A new study reveals a connection between NF-κB signaling pathways and X chromosome inactivation in T cells, which has implications for understanding sex-based immune responses. Researchers found that the maintenance of X chromosome inactivation depends on nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB), a transcription factor.
Increased malaria cases from mosquitoes transported by air have been reported in France and a European systematic review, highlighting the risk of Odyssean malaria. Locally-acquired infections remain constant, with more cases being reported since 2011.
A new study suggests that a hydrogen sulfide-generating molecule targeting mitochondria can significantly slow weight gain and reduce liver fat accumulation in mice. The treatment, AP39, inhibits key metabolic pathways associated with obesity and inflammation, offering a promising new option for treating metabolic diseases.
A new study published in MED found that maternal exercise during pregnancy can significantly reduce the risk of asthma in children. The research, which followed over 1,000 mother-child pairs, suggests that engaging in moderate exercise three times a week during pregnancy can lower the risk by nearly half.
Researchers found that AI-powered chatbot answers on top 50 most prescribed drugs in US were difficult to read and lacked information, posing potential harm to patients. Only 54% of answers aligned with scientific consensus, highlighting the need for caution when relying on these tools.
Researchers found PFAS in groundwater up to 43 years old and concentrations that exceed health advisory levels. The study suggests it could take over 40 years for PFAS to leave contaminated groundwater, highlighting the need for continued cleanup efforts and long-term monitoring.
Researchers found increased whole-brain connectivity in bilingual participants, particularly those who learned their second language early in life. This increased connectivity was stronger between the cerebellum and left frontal cortex, indicating a more efficient brain organization in terms of functional connectivity.
The world's freshwater lakes are freezing over for shorter periods due to climate change, affecting more than a billion people worldwide. Changes in ice duration have major implications for human safety, water quality, biodiversity, and global nutrient cycles.
An international study found that extremely heavy rainfall, occurring every five years, significantly increases mortality rates worldwide. The impacts vary greatly by region, depending on local climate and environmental conditions.
The LANDFEED project aims to develop advanced nutrient recovery technologies and innovative coatings for bio-based fertilisers to improve nutrient release and efficiency. This will reduce greenhouse gas emissions, lessen environmental impact on water resources, and contribute to improved soil health and sustainable agriculture.
A new study reveals that etizolam and gabapentinoids contribute to a rising culture of polydrug use and increased drug-related deaths in Scotland. The analysis of 18 studies found a significant increase in gabapentinoid-related deaths, primarily due to concurrent opioid use.
A Baylor University researcher has earned a transformative research award to develop personalized treatments for gut microbiome diseases. The project aims to identify specific bacteria that perform restorative activities and develop targeted fecal microbiota transplantations tailored to individual needs.
Gastric cancer is the sixth most common cancer globally, with high incidence rates in Asia, Latin America, and parts of Europe. Screening programs focusing on H. pylori eradication and early detection have shown promise in reducing mortality rates. Emerging research explores serological markers for pre-screening tools and vaccination a...
Climate change is releasing more contaminants into the ocean, affecting marine ecosystems. Human activities and natural sources are mobilizing and increasing contaminant flows due to rising sea levels and melting glaciers.
A new study found that COVID-19 infection increased the risk of heart attack and stroke for up to three years after infection. The risk was higher among people with A, B or AB blood types compared to type O, according to researchers analyzing data in the UK Biobank.
Researchers at the University of Würzburg discovered that plants use an energy-saving mechanism to adapt their potassium uptake based on soil conditions. By building a pH gradient across cell membranes, plants can transport potassium into cells without expending energy.
A recent study by The Jackson Laboratory reveals that reducing calorie intake can significantly extend the lifespan of mice, with the most robust animals living the longest. However, the researchers found that losing weight on these diets had a negative impact on lifespan in humans.
Researchers analyzed nearly 49,000 crossings in three diverse cities to identify patterns and correlations between crosswalk lengths and pedestrian safety. Longer crosswalks were associated with higher probabilities of pedestrian-vehicle collisions, highlighting the potential for data-driven improvements to urban infrastructure.
Researchers found lower neuron density in regions of the cerebral cortex responsible for tasks like memory, learning, and problem-solving in children with autism. In contrast, other brain regions like the amygdala showed increased neuron density, suggesting unique promise in characterizing individuals with autism.