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Florida Atlantic University


Ancient DNA analysis sheds light on the early peopling of South America

Researchers used DNA from two ancient human individuals to unravel the deep demographic history of South America, providing new genetic evidence supporting existing archaeological data. They also discovered migrations along the Atlantic coast for the first time and found evidence of Neanderthal ancestry within ancient genomes.

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 1, 2022

Needs and challenges for COVID-19 boosters and other vaccines in the U.S.

The US ranks last in vaccination rates among the world's richest countries, with a mortality rate from COVID-19 30 times higher than influenza. Boosters can reduce the risk of dying and hospitalization by over 90%. All US adults and eligible children should receive booster shots to protect against future variants.

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalThe American Journal of Medicine·TypeLiterature review·DateOct 18, 2022

‘Placenta-on-a-chip’ mimics malaria-infected nutrient exchange between mother-fetus

Researchers developed a novel 3D microfluidic device to study complicated processes within the placenta, including placental malaria. The model demonstrates that CSA-binding infected erythrocytes add resistance to the simulated placental barrier for glucose perfusion and decrease glucose transfer across this barrier.

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalScientific Reports·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 26, 2022

Rare human gene variant in ADHD, autism exposes fundamental sex differences

A new study reveals key differences in dopamine disposal machinery between male and female mice with a rare human genetic variant found in boys with ADHD or ASD. Females exhibit unique behavioral changes, such as increased anxiety and novelty recognition issues, while males display reduced social behavior and perseverative traits.

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 21, 2022

Study first to explore ‘walking’ sharks on the move in early life stages

A study by Florida Atlantic University researchers compared the walking and swimming behaviors of neonate and juvenile epaulette sharks. Contrary to expectations, results showed that differences in body shape did not alter kinematics between early life stages, suggesting a consistent locomotor performance.

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalIntegrative and Comparative Biology·TypeObservational study·DateAug 18, 2022

‘Prescribe ivermectin for COVID-19 only in large-scale randomized trials’

Researchers from Florida Atlantic University advise against prescribing ivermectin to treat or prevent COVID-19 due to the lack of reliable evidence. They emphasize the importance of relying on proven therapeutic innovations and vaccinations to combat the pandemic, citing the risks of unproven treatments like ivermectin.

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalTherapeutic Innovation & Regulatory Science·TypeCase study·DateFeb 16, 2022

Ecological tradeoff? Utility-scale solar energy impedes endangered Florida panthers

The study found that most USSE facilities were installed on grasslands, pastures, and agricultural lands, potentially impeding Florida panther dispersal. Restoration of dispersal corridors and gene flow is critical to the species' survival, benefiting biodiversity and resiliency at the landscape-scale.

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalJournal of Applied Ecology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJan 12, 2022

Dinosaurs’ last spring: Study pinpoints timing of Chicxulub asteroid impact

A groundbreaking study confirms the timing of the Chicxulub asteroid impact, which occurred during the spring-summer growth phase, leading to the extinction of dinosaurs and 75% of life on Earth. The research team used multiple lines of evidence, including fossil pollen, index fossils, and radiometric dating, to pinpoint the exact time...

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalScientific Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 9, 2021