A genome-wide analysis of ancient DNA from over 500 individuals sheds light on the complex genetic ancestry of South and Central Asia. The study documents genetic exchanges with European Steppe, Near East, and southeast Asia, revealing a population history that reflects similar genomic patterns to those in ancient Europe.
Despite three failed replications, Science is maintaining an Editorial Expression of Concern (EEoC) on the 2016 study by Siddappa N. Byrareddy et al., which reported significant results for SIV virus treatment using an antibody targeting integrin protein α4β7.
Changes to environmental conditions may be causing corals to lose their synchronized mass-spawning strategy, which could drive aging populations to extinction. This desynchronization poses a previously unnoticed threat to coral survival, with implications for global reef health.
A rapid-response oceanographic expedition studied the Kilauea Volcano's impact on marine ecosystems. High concentrations of nitrate in seawater triggered a strong phytoplankton bloom, contrary to expectations that lava would contain little nitrogen.
Researchers studied tau protein accumulation after a single traumatic brain injury (TBI) in 32 individuals and found increased deposition of tau associated with poorer memory and cognitive performance. Higher tau levels were also linked to more severe neurodegeneration and damage to the brain's white matter.
Scientists have identified a missing Denisovan finger bone fragment revealing its morphology is closer to modern human digits than previously thought. The finding suggests that finger bone characteristics unique to Neanderthals evolved after the evolutionary split from Denisovans.
A recent genome-wide association study involving over 470,000 participants found no meaningful link between genetic variants and same-sex sexual behavior. Instead, thousands of genetic variants with small effects contribute to individual differences in predisposition to the trait.
New discoveries at Cooper's Ferry site suggest humans occupied western Idaho by nearly 16,500 years ago. The findings support a Pacific coastal migration route and contradict the traditional 'ice-free corridor' hypothesis.
A global archaeological assessment reveals that prehistoric humans had a substantial impact on Earth's landscapes by 3,000 years ago. The 'big-data' approach to understanding human legacy on Earth suggests an early and widespread effect of human activity on the environment.
Scientists have identified a Y-chromosome linked gene called Maleness-on-the-Y that determines male sex in several major fruit fly pests. The discovery could lead to the development of more effective genetic control strategies for these destructive agricultural pests.
Research reveals that horizontal and vertical circulation of carbon-rich ocean water in the subpolar Southern Ocean work together to control carbon storage and release. The study found that large gyres, such as the Weddell Gyre, play a key role in transporting carbon-containing phytoplankton out of the region.
A new dual imaging approach combines transrectal ultrasound (TRUS) and photoacoustic imaging to detect anatomical features and molecular information of the prostate. This technology has shown promise in detecting prostate cancers with high accuracy, including distinguishing malignant regions in patients with advanced disease.
Images taken by Hayabusa2's lander on Ryugu's surface show rocks bearing similarities to primitive meteorites called carbonaceous chondrites, supporting theories that the asteroid formed during a cataclysmic event. The findings also reveal an unusual lack of fine particles or dust on the surface.
Researchers have created the first high-resolution atlas of malaria parasite gene expression, revealing new insights into gene function and regulation. The Malaria Cell Atlas provides potential targets for future treatments and a better understanding of the spread of drug resistance.
Researchers propose a new approach to climate change adaptation, focusing on strategic and managed retreat in vulnerable areas. This approach aims to maximize social, economic, and environmental benefits by integrating retreat into broader development goals.
Researchers developed a CRISPR-responsive hydrogel system that can be programmed to release compounds, nanoparticles, or live cells in response to specific DNA targets. The system's sensitivity and versatility make it suitable for various biomedical applications, including tissue engineering, bio-electronics, and biosensing.
April tornadoes influenced by global climate patterns, while May events more strongly linked to internal atmospheric processes. Shifting weather patterns within seasons affect tornado frequencies, suggesting a key factor in climate change impact studies.
Researchers have developed a nanotherapeutic called S-HDL that reduces inflammation in blood vessels, halting plaque accumulation and vessel wall inflammation in animal models. The new production method boosts therapeutic yields by up to 80-fold, paving the way for human application.
Researchers discovered a gene variant, UPA2, in wild teosinte that can be used to increase maize yields under high-density planting. The introduction of this allele into modern maize resulted in significantly increased yield and upright plant growth.
Scientists identified a receptor, GPR139, in nematodes that decreases opioid sensitivity and withdrawal effects. The discovery could pave the way for developing new treatments with improved safety and efficacy.
A soft robotic exosuit can assist both walking and running by detecting the wearer's gait and providing appropriate assistance, reducing metabolic costs of walking and running by 9.3% and 4.0%, respectively. The device weighs only 11 pounds and enables a near-seamless transition between gaits.
Researchers analyzed helium isotopes in super-deep diamonds to find evidence of pristine reservoirs of primordial rock material beneath the upper mantle. The study suggests that these reservoirs occasionally infiltrate the transition zone and mix with subducting material, creating diverse isotopic compositions.
A two-step gene therapy treatment has shown promise in treating recurrent glioblastoma by boosting IL-12 production and enhancing antitumor immune cell infiltration. The treatment has also been found to be safe, with serious side effects easily reversible after discontinuing treatment.
Researchers analyzed snow samples from remote areas and European cities, finding high concentrations of microplastics in Arctic snow. These tiny particles, often used in synthetic fabrics and other materials, contribute significantly to air pollution and may pose health risks, including lung cancer.
Researchers present an integrated strategy for computer-augmented chemical synthesis, successfully yielding 15 different medicinally related small molecules. Their AI-informed, robotically controlled platform has the potential to greatly improve the synthesis of complex molecules, reducing manual labor and increasing scalability.
Archaeologists have discovered a rock shelter in Ethiopia dating back over 30,000 years, providing the earliest evidence of human habitation at high altitudes. The site, Fincha Habera, shows signs of Middle Stone Age foragers living and feasting on giant mole-rats at an elevation of over 11,000 feet.
Researchers compared observations with model simulations, revealing gaps in smoke plume rise and duration modeling. The study found that solar heating warmed air within the plume, causing it to self-loft to nearly 23 kilometers, but observed smoke lifetime was 40% shorter than calculated models due to photochemical loss of organic carbon.
Researchers analyzed TP53 mutations in human leukemia, finding that most missense variants exert a 'dominant-negative' effect reducing wild-type p53's cancer-suppressing activity. The study challenges previous hypotheses suggesting new oncogenic functions from these mutations.
Researchers found that repeated subconcussive head hits can cumulatively cause brain trauma, leading to structural changes in midbrain white matter. The study suggests that early detection and prevention of injury are crucial in protecting players from long-term neurologic damage.
Scientists have developed a personalized platform called TARDIS that accurately detects circulating tumor DNA and signs of residual disease in breast cancer patients. The assay demonstrated a significant improvement in sensitivity, enabling earlier detection of tumors and monitoring patient response to chemotherapy.
A new study created lab mice by implanting embryos from laboratory animals into wild mice, resulting in a model that accurately predicts human response to drugs. This novel approach has the potential to improve translational research value for immunology, potentially preventing failed clinical trials.
Researchers have developed a new 3D bioprinting technique using rapid changes in pH to create complex collagen-based cardiac structures. The method, called FRESH v2.0, can print tissue architectures up to 10 micrometers resolution and accurately reproduce patient-specific anatomical structures.
Researchers have charted the Milky Way in three dimensions using thousands of pulsating stars, revealing a warped and twisted stellar disc. The new map provides a broad view of our place among the stars and constrains the previously observed shape of the Galaxy's disk.
Decades-old frozen fish reveal roots of rapid evolutionary adaptation to human-induced environmental change. Genomic analysis shows that multiple genetic pathways can lead to similar traits, supporting the idea of diverse evolutionary paths.
A West Virginia forest study found that acid rain increases soil-to-atmosphere water transfer, leading to greater plant water uptake. This effect is attributed to the leaching of calcium from soil, which signals open stomata and allows evapotranspiration to continue.
Scientists have created a microneedle patch based on snake fangs that can deliver therapeutic liquids and vaccines through the skin of rodents in under 15 seconds. The device uses capillary action to bypass pumping systems, making it an attractive alternative for simple and pain-free drug delivery.
A newly discovered gene in rice renders the crop resistant to several widely used beta-triketone herbicides. The HIS1 gene encodes an oxidase that detoxifies herbicide compounds, offering potential value in breeding new herbicide-resistant crops for efficient global food production.
Researchers detected gravitational redshift in star orbiting Sagittarius A* black hole, consistent with general relativity. The findings provide a 'transformational change' in understanding supermassive blackholes and their physics.
A new study reveals that T follicular helper cells shield mice from obesity by promoting IgA antibody production, which suppresses lipid absorption. This discovery highlights the immune system's role in regulating the gut microbiome and offers potential for novel treatments against metabolic diseases.
A recent study using sonar surveys found that tidewater glaciers in Alaska are melting underwater at unprecedented rates, contradicting previous estimates. The research suggests that these glaciers may be experiencing 'hotter water' conditions than previously thought.
A portable, noninvasive fluid monitoring device has been developed using nuclear magnetic resonance technology, providing accurate measurements of leg fluid buildup in patients with end-stage kidney disease. The device's portability and ease-of-use could enable clinicians to track fluid buildup at the bedside, improving patient care.
Researchers discovered genome-wide variations in gene expression between females and males in mammalian species. The study revealed hundreds of conserved sex-biased gene expressions contributing to differences in traits.
The Apollo 11 lunar landing has left a lasting legacy in planetary science, providing insights into the Moon's formation and geology. Recent lunar exploration missions, such as China's Chang'E-4 program, continue to advance our understanding of the Moon and its potential for future human exploration.
A new study discovers complex hyoid bones in a 165-million-year-old mammaliaform species, suggesting the evolution of a loose tongue in early mammals. The discovery sheds light on the evolutionary origins of hyolingual structures, which enable advanced food and liquid swallowing in modern mammals.
Researchers developed a new optogenetic technique to control brain activity in mice, recreating natural perception and guiding behavior. The method revealed new insights into neuronal dynamics and the neurobiology of mammalian behavior.
Researchers created a comprehensive test using machine learning algorithms to better guide patient management for pancreatic cysts, a precursor of pancreatic cancer. The test, called CompCyst, outperformed the current standard-of-care in an international study, avoiding surgery in 60% of patients who underwent unnecessary removal.
A new study suggests that artificially pumping ocean water onto coastal regions surrounding the West Antarctic ice sheet could stabilize it, but at great cost. The approach would require a minimum of 7,400 gigatons of artificial snowfall over 10 years to achieve a two-to-five-centimeter sea level drop.
Scientists have developed a novel nanoparticle formulation targeting PD-L1 with high specificity, allowing for improved infiltration of T cells into tumors and increased sensitivity to checkpoint blockade. This approach achieved an 80% mouse survival rate over 70 days, outperforming traditional antibody therapies.
A new genome-wide analysis uncovers the complex origins of domestic cattle by comparing ancient and modern genomes. The study reveals that multiple strains of wild auroch contributed to the growth of domesticated cows.
Researchers developed Pluribus AI that can play six-player no-limit Texas hold'em poker, outperforming top professionals and five copies of itself. The AI confirms traditional wisdom on limping as a suboptimal strategy for most players.