A newly described species of ichthyosaur, named Ichthyotitan severnensis, is believed to be the largest known marine reptile, with estimates suggesting it could have reached up to 82 feet in length. The discovery was made from fossilized jawbone fragments found in Somerset, UK.
A study found that almost 17% of adolescents experience weight-related bullying online, with the highest rates reported by Twitter users. The survey also revealed a strong association between screen time, social media use, and weight-related bullying, with a 13% increase in bullying for every additional hour of screen time.
Researchers investigated how watching videos affects attitudes toward rattlesnakes, finding that younger people and those with more snake experience were less receptive to the change. The study revealed variations in response to different messaging styles, highlighting individual differences in perception.
A study found that when adult male blue tits were absent, young males had higher success rates in fathering offspring outside of their breeding pair. Young males' poor performance was due to competition with older males, not lack of experience. In the absence of adult males, 33% of young males fathered at least one extra-pair offspring.
Researchers developed an AI system to spot parasitic worm infections in children's stool samples using digital mobile microscopy. This innovation improves diagnosis in resource-limited settings where manual microscopy may miss light intensity infections.
A recent study published in PLOS Global Public Health found that individuals remaining in Ukraine during the ongoing war are more likely to experience anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) than refugees. Exposure to blasts and loss of community, housing, and economic resources contribute to these mental health issues.
The study finds that cybercriminal threats are primarily concentrated in a small number of countries, with China, Russia, Ukraine, the US, Romania, and Nigeria ranking high in various categories. The World Cybercrime Index provides a useful tool for targeting investigative and preventive efforts more efficiently.
A new study analyzing building footprints in US metropolitan areas identifies five distinct neighborhood types associated with varying socioeconomic and demographic traits. These neighborhoods differ in footprint size, shape, and placement, reflecting differences in population density, homeownership rates, and commuting habits.
A new study from China found that higher GDP per capita and lower income inequality are associated with increased subjective well-being. However, when income inequality becomes too high, the link between economy and mental health disappears. The researchers advocate for a balanced approach to economic planning.
A new database of 1,500 Indigenous Australian message sticks has been analyzed for the first time, revealing details about the symbols and markings used to convey messages over long distances. The study provides valuable insights into the ancient communication methods employed by Australia's indigenous peoples.
A multicentre observational study found socioeconomic and ethnic disparities in access to cochlear implantation among UK adults. Men, those living in deprived areas, and Asian/Black individuals were less likely to be referred for the procedure, highlighting disparities in healthcare access.
A sample of almost 4,000 haiku references butterflies, bees, ants, and flies most frequently, describing their color, flight patterns, and ecology. The study provides new insights into the diversity and complexity of arthropod references in traditional Japanese poetry.
Tourism to Yellowstone National Park produces over a billion kilos of CO2 emissions each year, primarily from air travel. The study emphasizes the need for strategies to decrease these emissions and mitigate climate change.
A study published in PLOS ONE found that employees with volatile work schedules early in their career had worse sleep and more depressive symptoms at age 50. The study used data from the National Longitudinal Survey of Youth-1979 to examine the impact of employment patterns on health in middle age.
Researchers found that first-time mothers carrying a breech baby may experience reduced risks if they choose a planned cesarean delivery instead of attempting a vaginal birth. However, these women also have an elevated risk of experiencing uterine rupture during their next pregnancy.
A study found that early Mesozoic animals, including dinosaurs, grew quickly around 230 million years ago. This feature is not unique to dinosaurs but was shared by several non-dinosaur reptiles as well.
Research by PLOS ONE found that runners classified as Myers-Br Briggs Sensing have a more grounded running style compared to those with an Intuitive personality. The study analyzed running biomechanics in French, Swiss, and Belgian runners.
A recent analysis of over 750 papers found that more than 90% rely on shortcut citations in their methods sections, significantly impeding the ability to reconstruct original experiments. This practice is prevalent across journals, with less than a quarter adhering to policies governing previously described methods.
A study published in PLOS Medicine found that adolescents with high positive affect reported lower rates of anxiety and depression, and higher optimism as adults. Positive affect was associated with healthier behaviors and decreased risk of chronic diseases in adulthood.
Researchers found that probiotics in kombucha tea alter fat metabolism in worms, leading to reduced fat stores and lower triglyceride levels. This study suggests possible health benefits of kombucha for humans and informs potential use in complementary healthcare approaches.
Nematode worms can learn to avoid harmful bacteria by exposure to bacterial RNA, and pass on this behavior to future generations. This phenomenon, known as transgenerational inheritance, persists for four generations.
Researchers found a strong bidirectional relationship between premenstrual disorders and perinatal depression among over 900,000 women. Women with perinatal depression were more likely to develop premenstrual disorders after pregnancy and childbirth.
A global meta-analysis reveals nearly a third of people with insecure migration status experience interpersonal, community, and state physical violence. Almost as many report intimate partner violence, highlighting the need for targeted support and protection measures.
A study published in PLOS ONE found that earlier puberty onset is associated with higher adult cardiometabolic risk and mediates the effects of childhood risk factors. The research suggests targeting puberty onset may improve health outcomes in at-risk girls.
A study of 280,783 adults in 55 LMICs found that only 20-30% take medications for hypertension and diabetes. The results highlight inadequate healthcare in these settings.
Simulations reveal that social media's shadow banning technique can subtly influence user opinions, making its detection challenging. The study highlights the dangers of this tactic for opinion manipulation on social networks.
A study found that emotional reactions to climate change influence policy preferences. Guilt and anger are linked to support for personally costly policies, while hope and sadness back proactive approaches. Fear is associated with support for regulatory policies across the board.
A study predicts that climate change will lead to a major species turnover in North American cities by the end of the century. Cities with cooler and wetter climates are expected to gain new species, while warmer cities may lose many species.
A study published in PLOS ONE found that high fat/low protein diets in rats during pregnancy and postnatally can cause altered glucose control and other maladaptive metabolic changes in their offspring. The researchers also discovered disruptions in circadian rhythm programming of energy metabolites through adulthood.
A large all-female study found that women with low resting heart rates were more likely to engage in criminal behavior and experience unintentional injuries. The research suggests a potential link between autonomic nervous system arousal and stimulation-seeking tendencies.
A systematic review of 35 years of medical literature finds that poverty is the primary reason people sell their kidneys, while lack of information, debt, and altruism also contribute. Regional variation exists, with poverty being the main driver in the Indian Subcontinent and brokers playing a significant role in other countries.
Research reveals changes in Hawaiian coral reef soundscapes tied to lunar cycles, indicating potential impacts on marine life. The study explores moonlight-driven biological choruses and their effects on reef ecosystems.
A study of 1,156 individuals aged 50+ found that those with more musculoskeletal pain complaints tended to retire earlier than pain-free participants. Chronic pain was also linked to a higher risk of ceasing work sooner, even after controlling for other factors.
A modelling study suggests mass timber can significantly reduce carbon emissions in high-rise US buildings by replacing traditional materials like concrete and steel. The study's findings have significant implications for the construction industry and could pave the way for more sustainable building practices.
Researchers found obese individuals exhibit distinct walking patterns, characterized by shorter strides and modified ankle muscle activation. This study suggests these differences may increase the risk of falls and musculoskeletal disorders.
Excavations at La Marmotta, Italy, uncovered five Neolithic canoes dating between 5700-5100BC, featuring advanced construction techniques. The discovery provides invaluable insights into early navigation and the technological sophistication of ancient communities.
A study published in PLOS ONE found that fear specifically provokes different types of time-bound decision making for women versus men. Women experiencing fear tended to prioritize smaller short-term gains compared to men, while men's decisions appeared unaffected by their emotional state.
A study of 3,000 middle-aged and older women found that those who perceived gender discrimination reported declines in wellbeing over time, including more depressive symptoms, loneliness, and lower quality of life. Perceived sexism was linked to depression, loneliness, and poor life satisfaction six years later.
A survey of UK, Austria, and Denmark pet owners found that 6 in 10 believe their pets should have access to the same healthcare treatment options as humans. Those with strongest emotional attachments to their pets were more likely to desire advanced care options.
Researchers identified traditional Polynesian and South American crops, such as breadfruit and yam, at early Rapa Nui settlements through starch analysis. These findings provide insight into the island's early agriculture and cultural exchange with South America.
Researchers studied a subpopulation of transient killer whales that prey on marine mammals in the open ocean. They found two distinct foraging behaviors: independent diving and coordinated groups hunting along submarine canyons.
Researchers found that forming social bonds facilitates quicker and more frequent communication among group members, with neural activity aligning between leaders and followers. The study suggests a potential neurocognitive explanation for the hierarchical structure of human groups.
A new study published in PLOS Medicine found that individuals with lower income or education levels are more likely to develop medical conditions related to alcohol abuse. The research suggests that these groups may benefit from additional screening by clinicians to evaluate their alcohol consumption and identify related conditions.
A new platform has been developed to identify and optimize peptides targeting the SARS-CoV-2 envelope protein, a potential drug target for treating COVID-19. The study uses synthetic peptides to inhibit the virus's entry into host cells.
A new study published in PLOS Medicine found distinct patterns of antimicrobial resistance prevalence by age and sex across Europe. The study analyzed data from nearly one million people in 29 European countries, revealing that peaks in resistance varied by bacterial species and often occurred at the youngest and oldest ages.
A study by PLOS reveals that climate change has significantly increased crop water demand in the San Joaquin Valley since 2011. The shift is substantial, with water usage equivalent to a major reservoir.
A Photovoice project documented the lives of Seattle-area pet owners experiencing homelessness, revealing the benefits of human-animal bonds on mental and physical health. The study also identified barriers to services and recommendations for improved policies.
A new study predicts that climate change will lead to a significant reduction in natural snow cover days globally, with popular ski hubs moving to remote areas. The European Alps, Australian Alps, and Japanese Alps are expected to experience the most decline, threatening local livelihoods and ecosystems.
Spending time with dogs increases alpha-band oscillations, associated with relaxed wakefulness, and beta-band oscillation strength, linked to heightened concentration. Participants reported reduced fatigue, depression, and stress after dog-related activities.
A single mindfulness and compassion session significantly reduced symptoms of anxiety, depression, and stress in participants one week later. The study, conducted on 91 individuals, demonstrated the efficacy of a single session mindfulness-based intervention.