Five studies on New Horizons' flyby of Pluto uncover a wide variety of geological features, including tectonics, glacial flow, and cryovolcanoes. The dwarf planet's interaction with the solar wind and icy surfaces also provides insights into its space environment.
A recent study reveals that modern Melanesians harbor significant Denisovan genetic ancestry, representing between 1.9% and 3.4% of their genome. This discovery sheds light on the characteristics of Denisovan DNA that persist in humans today, providing new insights into human evolution and gene flow.
A controlled human challenge study shows a dengue vaccine candidate can fully protect healthy volunteers from infection. The results support further evaluation of the vaccine and may help identify promising candidates and eliminate poor ones.
Automatic Ship Identification Systems (AIS) have vast potential to provide valuable marine data and inform international marine policies. However, inconsistent use of this technology and data falsification by users must be addressed.
Researchers found that a global methane plateau between 1999 and 2006 was caused by lower industrial emissions, but ended when biogenic sources, such as agriculture, increased. The study suggests that agricultural activity may be a key contributor to the resumed increases in atmospheric methane levels.
Scientists have identified a new bacterium that can break down polyethylene terephthalate (PET) using just two enzymes. The unique enzymes, ISF6_4831 and ISF6_0224, work together to degrade PET into its simpler building blocks, offering a potential solution to the plastic waste problem.
Researchers found that radiation treatment killed 95% of breast cancer cells when delivered during a peak in p53 production, but only 20% when applied during an oscillatory phase. The study suggests that timing may be crucial in understanding the effectiveness of anticancer treatments.
Researchers identified two synthetic compounds that can restore the effectiveness of antibiotics against MRSA by blocking an enzyme involved in bacterial cell wall production. When paired with existing antibiotics, these compounds significantly improved survival rates and reduced infection severity in mice infected with MRSA.
Researchers have developed an 'octopus-like' skin that can stretch, sense pressure, and emit light. The hyperelastic, light-emitting capacitor (HLEC) device outperforms previous models in terms of elasticity and versatility.
A new study suggests that specific brain network alignment influences whether altruism stems from empathy or reciprocity. Researchers found distinct patterns in brain connectivity between individuals exhibiting different levels of altruism.
A study replicated 18 experimental studies in economics, reproducing results in 11 cases and showing promise for improving replication methods. The findings suggest that clear methodological documentation is crucial for successful replications.
The American Association of Science advocates data sharing to improve transparency and reproducibility in field sciences like geology, ecology, and archaeology. Discipline-specific repositories can provide better services for researchers to access and use shared data.
Researchers identified a more selective iron chelator compound named adaptaquin that blocks specific iron-containing enzymes without affecting total iron. This compound may provide neuroprotection after a brain hemorrhage event by blocking a protein called ATF4, which drives cell death in neurons.
The use of residual disinfectants in drinking water has been compared between Western European countries, the U.S., and waterborne outbreak data. The Netherlands has the lowest risk of waterborne disease despite no residual disinfectant use due to newer pipe infrastructure.
Researchers discovered two potent Ebola antibodies that eliminate symptoms in just five days after infection. The monoclonal antibodies target different regions of the virus's glycoprotein and work by interfering with its entry into host cells.
A new study estimates methane leak rates from a 2015 California well blowout, which temporarily doubled Los Angeles' combined emissions. The research used airborne and surface measurements to quantify gas releases, highlighting the impact of single infrastructure vulnerabilities on climate policies.
A new study reveals that leaf quality, rather than leaf abundance, plays a crucial role in forest carbon cycles. The research finds that varying leaf quality can explain twice as much seasonal variation in ecosystem productivity as leaf quantity alone.
Researchers develop adaptive therapy that adjusts drug dose based on tumor response, controlling growth and allowing 60-80% of mice to be weaned off the drug. The treatment approach stabilizes tumors by maintaining a small population of drug-sensitive cells to suppress resistant cell growth.
Researchers have created a library of fungi-secreted enzymes that efficiently break down plant biomass, which could simplify and lower the costs of biofuel production. The discovery highlights the potential of symbiotic fungi from herbivore guts, particularly Piromyces, to degrade lignocellulose with enzyme synergy.
Researchers have isolated a collection of potent antibodies from an Ebola survivor that target the virus's glycoprotein stalk, providing significant post-exposure protection. These antibodies may lead to effective therapies to fight Ebola.
A bioinformatics error affected the results, overestimating the genetic impact. The corrected study reveals extensive Eurasian admixture only in Eastern Africa.
A study showed that transferring healthy gut microbial species from children to mice can counter the negative effects of malnutrition, suggesting a possible therapeutic approach. Certain microbe species offset malnutrition's detrimental effects, enabling normal growth in undernourished children.
A new study has discovered a type of noncoding RNA called Chast that drives heart failure in mice and may promote cardiac hypertrophy. The researchers found that targeting this lncRNA with an antisense oligonucleotide could prevent and treat cardiac hypertrophy, improving heart function.
The Preregistration Challenge tests how addressing incentives can improve the reproducibility of published research by offering $1,000 rewards for published results. Over 60% of researchers are choosing to submit public preregistrations, and the first results are expected in late 2016.
Dr. Eric S. Lander is awarded the 2015 Philip Hauge Abelson Prize for his contributions to genetics, molecular biology, and mathematics. He has made significant advancements in human genome sequencing and interpretation, which have transformed biological research.
A study of US science teachers found that 30% emphasize natural causes for global warming, while 12% don't mention human causes. The authors propose addressing the root causes of resistance to science through science communication research.
Researchers have identified correlations between Neandertal-derived genes and disease states in modern humans, including depression, addiction, and metabolism. The study found that Neandertal alleles were significantly correlated with the risk for 12 traits, including myocardial infarction and blood disorders.
Recent analysis suggests that groundwater storage has contributed up to 22% to slowing sea level rise, with climate-driven changes in precipitation playing the key role. Human-induced factors like reservoir filling and water pumping have also affected land storage capacity, although to a lesser extent.
Researchers identified hybrid insulin peptides (HIPs) that trigger autoimmune response in T1D patients, prompting immune system to attack insulin-producing cells. These findings may help explain the mystery of why people with T1D are affected by incorrect insulin peptide bonding.
Leading global health bodies, including academic journals and NGOs, have pledged to share data on the Zika crisis. The declaration aims to facilitate a rapid global response and promote open science in public health emergencies.
Sir Peter Gluckman has been chosen by the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) to receive the 2015 Award for Science Diplomacy. He is recognized for transforming the theory and practice of science advice, bringing together practitioners into a global network.
Researchers created a nanoparticle formulation of a targeted cancer drug that selectively targets tumors while sparing healthy tissue. The nanoparticle-encapsulated version showed improved efficacy and reduced side effects in rodent trials.
Mark Miodownik, a researcher and teacher at University College London, has been recognized for his commitment to public engagement in science. He has championed engineering and materials science through various public forums, including lectures, workshops, and online courses.
Jean Maria Arrigo received the AAAS Scientific Freedom and Responsibility Award for her tireless efforts to expose the American Psychological Association's (APA) complicity in torture and abuse. She stood against the APA's Task Force on Psychological Ethics and National Security, which justified coercive interrogations, and instead adv...
Mark Rosin, a physicist, has been recognized by the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) for his creative and sustainable public engagement strategies. He organizes interactive events that mix science with art, music, and play to reach diverse audiences.
A new analysis of deformed wing virus shows that the Varroa mite has spread globally due to human trade, contributing to an endemic to epidemic shift. The study provides insights into worldwide transmission routes and dynamics of DWV.
Two studies reveal how human-made forest changes affect the carbon cycle and air temperature. Replacing broadleaved forests with conifers increases evapotranspiration and albedo, contributing to warming. Forest clearing causes an increase in average and maximum surface temperatures, except at northern latitudes.
A new study suggests that the Greenland Ice Sheet's stiff upper layer of ice formed during the Holocene era may be causing its deceleration. The analysis reveals that softer ice, resulting from higher atmospheric dust levels, is being compressed by stiffer ice below.
Two studies suggest that aging of hair follicle stem cells may contribute to hair thinning. The research found that accumulating DNA damage and changes in key genes affect HFSCs, leading to miniaturized and reduced hair follicles.
A mathematical model accurately predicted the results of a herpes drug study, pinpointing the most effective dose for treatment. The model considers the complex immune response against the virus, improving upon current methods that neglect this aspect.
The 2016 AAAS/Subaru SB&F prizes recognize outstanding science writing and illustration for children and young adults. The winners include Sy Montgomery's 'The Octopus Scientists' and Beth Shapiro's 'How to Clone a Mammoth: The Science of De-Extinction.'
A study identified a subset of immune signaling proteins associated with autism development in mice. Blocking these proteins during pregnancy eliminated autism-like behavior in offspring, hinting at a potential prevention method.
Babylonian astronomers calculated Jupiter's position using geometry, challenging the long-held assumption that this technique was introduced in Europe much later. The tablets, written between 350 and 50 BCE, depict geometric calculations for time-space and distance, revealing a sophisticated understanding of astronomy.
Researchers found that a population of suppressive T cells in the small intestines prevents immune responses to solid foods. Dietary antigens induce development of most pTreg cells in the small intestines, which play a key role in determining how our immune system handles food.
Researchers replaced the Y chromosome in mice by increasing expression of two genes, Sry and Eif2s3y, allowing males to produce offspring. The study demonstrates the mammalian genome's plasticity by exchanging Y chromosome genes with those on other chromosomes.
Researchers have successfully synthesized a material with a distinctive woven structure, providing special elastic properties. The new material's flexibility increases tenfold when threads slide against each other, making it promising for various applications.
A paper by Gugliotti et al. in Science reported on RNA-mediated metal-metal bond formation, but an investigation found authors falsified research data. The journal is taking steps to address the concerns and ensure the integrity of its publications.
A new study by James Burkett and colleagues found that prairie voles console loved ones who are feeling stressed, suggesting a complex form of empathy. The researchers discovered that the 'love hormone' oxytocin is involved in this behavior, which occurs only between familiar individuals, not strangers.
Small-scale agriculture in developing nations can significantly benefit from increased pollinator density, with a 24% yield increase possible. Large farms may require diverse pollinators to achieve similar benefits, highlighting the importance of agricultural strategies to support pollinator health.
Dr. Saundra Yancy McGuire, a renowned chemist, will receive the AAAS Lifetime Mentor Award for her dedication to promoting diversity in STEM fields and mentoring underrepresented students. She has mentored over 40 African-American doctoral students in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.